As of my last update in September 2021, India does not have a comprehensive government-funded or universally accessible program for free or low-cost transgender surgeries. The accessibility of free or low-cost transgender surgeries in India is limited, and the availability may vary depending on the location and specific healthcare facilities.

However, there are some government initiatives and non-profit organizations working to provide healthcare services to transgender individuals, including gender-affirming surgeries, at reduced costs or on a sliding scale based on the individual’s financial situation. These initiatives are generally limited in scope and may not cover all types of gender-affirming surgeries.

Some potential avenues for accessing free or low-cost transgender surgeries in India include:

1. Government Hospitals: Some government hospitals may offer gender-affirming surgeries at subsidized rates or as part of specific health programs. However, the availability of such services can be limited, and waiting lists may be long.
2. Public Health Initiatives: In some states or union territories, there may be public health initiatives that provide gender-affirming surgeries to transgender individuals at reduced costs. These initiatives may be limited to certain procedures and may have specific eligibility criteria.
3. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Certain NGOs and non-profit organizations in India work toward providing healthcare support to transgender individuals, including access to gender-affirming surgeries. These organizations may offer financial assistance or collaborate with healthcare providers to offer services at reduced rates.
4. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Initiatives: Some private companies may have CSR initiatives focused on transgender healthcare and may offer financial support for gender-affirming surgeries.
5. Insurance Coverage: While not free, some health insurance plans in India may cover gender-affirming surgeries partially or fully, reducing the out-of-pocket expenses for eligible individuals.

It’s essential for transgender individuals seeking free or low-cost transgender surgeries in India to research available resources, reach out to relevant government departments or NGOs, and inquire about potential financial assistance programs. Connecting with support groups and organizations dedicated to transgender healthcare can also provide valuable information and assistance in accessing affordable healthcare services.

However, it’s important to note that the accessibility of free or low-cost transgender surgeries in India is limited, and the overall landscape of healthcare services may have evolved since my last update in September 2021. Therefore, individuals seeking affordable transgender surgeries in India should conduct up-to-date research and consult with relevant healthcare providers and organizations to explore the available options.