It is estimated that there are around 0.23 million transgender people in India, which is about 0.03% of the total population. The transgender community in India faces a lot of discrimination and violence, and they often have to live in poverty and without access to basic services. There are a number of organizations working to improve the lives of transgender people in India, but there is still a long way to go.

Here are some resources for transgender people in India:

• The Naz Foundation India Trust is a non-profit organization that works to promote the rights of transgender people in India. They provide a variety of services, including legal aid, counseling, and job training.

Opens in a new window www.nazindia.org

Naz Foundation India Trust logo

• The Transgender Resource Centre is a non-profit organization that provides information and support to transgender people in India. They have a website with a wealth of resources, including articles, videos, and a directory of organizations that work with transgender people.

Opens in a new window LinkedIn

Transgender Resource Centre logo

• The Humsafar Trust is a non-profit organization that works to promote the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people in India. They have a helpline that transgender people can call for support.

Opens in a new window humsafar.org

Humsafar Trust logo

If you are a transgender person in India, please know that you are not alone. There are many people who care about you and want to help. Please reach out to one of the organizations listed above for support.

Transgender individuals in India, often referred to as hijras, aravanis, or third gender, have a complex and unique position in Indian society. Here are some key points regarding the transgender community in India:

1. Legal Recognition: In 2014, the Supreme Court of India recognized transgender individuals as a “third gender” and affirmed their rights to equality, non-discrimination, and protection under the law. This recognition aimed to address the historical marginalization and discrimination faced by transgender individuals.
2. Transgender Rights Legislation: The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 was enacted to protect and promote the rights of transgender individuals in India. The Act prohibits discrimination in various areas, including education, employment, healthcare, and public services. It also provides for the establishment of welfare boards and the issuance of transgender identity certificates.
3. Social Stigma and Discrimination: Despite legal recognition, transgender individuals in India continue to face significant social stigma, discrimination, and marginalization. They often experience difficulties in accessing education, employment, healthcare, and housing, which leads to higher rates of poverty and mental health issues within the community.
4. Hijra Community: The hijra community, a traditional transgender community in India, has a long history and cultural significance. Hijras have their own distinct gender identity, social roles, and community practices. They often form close-knit communities and have unique customs and rituals.
5. Transgender Activism: The transgender community in India has active advocacy groups and organizations working to raise awareness, fight for equal rights and opportunities, and challenge societal stereotypes and discrimination. These organizations provide support, resources, and empowerment to transgender individuals.
6. Healthcare Access: Transgender individuals in India face challenges in accessing transgender-specific healthcare services, including hormone therapy, gender-affirming surgeries, and mental healthcare. There is a need for improved access to transgender-inclusive and culturally sensitive healthcare services.
7. Education and Employment: Transgender individuals often face barriers to education and employment due to discrimination and lack of acceptance. Efforts are being made to promote inclusive education and create employment opportunities for transgender individuals through various initiatives and policies.

It’s important to recognize that transgender experiences and challenges can vary among individuals, and generalizations may not capture the full diversity within the transgender community in India. Increased awareness, education, and policy changes are crucial for promoting equality, acceptance, and inclusion for transgender individuals in Indian society.