Cuttack: Parents of transgender children in Odisha are set to get financial assistance every month under the state government’s Sweekruti scheme.
As per the guidelines laid down by the Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) Department recently, parents or guardians of transgender children will receive monthly assistance of Rs 1,500 until the child attains the age of 18 years.
Eligible families can submit the necessary documents through the Sweekruti online portal in order to avail the benefit under the scheme.
The move seeks to protect the rights of transgender people and make them an important component of the social mainstream. The objective is to strengthen the social security mechanism of the state.
Considering the enormous challenges faced by transgender students in getting hostel facilities, the government has decided to introduce changes in existing boys’ and girls’ hostels in colleges and universities, or construct new hostels wherever required. Urban local bodies (ULBs) and organisations working for the welfare of transgender persons will also be involved in modifying or managing such hostel facilities. A monthly stipend of Rs 3,000 will be provided to the transgender residents staying in these hostels.
This apart, the scheme also offers support in education, including scholarships for matriculation students and assistance across other levels of education. Transgender candidates preparing for national and state-level administrative services will be provided with additional support as required.
While the department will monitor the implementation of the scheme through an online portal, District Social Security Officers (DSSOs) will be responsible for ensuring that eligible beneficiaries receive the intended benefits.
