Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has taken a significant step toward supporting transgender individuals by setting up the State Transgender Welfare Board. This new board, led by Social Security Minister Nityananda Gond, will oversee welfare programs for the estimated 30,000 transgender persons living in the state. 
Odisha Establishes State Transgender Welfare Board to Support Community


The board was created following the guidelines of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, as confirmed by a recent government notification. Its main goal is to ensure the rehabilitation, empowerment, and well-being of transgender people by focusing on key areas like education, employment, health, and housing.  

What Will the Board Do?  

The board will consist of 12 members, including two representatives from the transgender community. Other members will come from various government departments such as:  
  • Health – To improve medical services and access to healthcare.  
  • Panchayati Raj & Housing & Urban Development – To ensure housing rights and urban welfare schemes.  
  • Skill Development & Education – To provide job training and educational opportunities.  
  • School & Mass Education – To promote inclusive schooling for transgender students.  
The board will monitor and implement policies designed to uplift the transgender community, ensuring they receive equal opportunities and support.  
Odisha Establishes State Transgender Welfare Board to Support Community


A Long-Awaited Move  

Odisha is now the 20th state in India to form such a board. Pratap Sahoo, president of the All Odisha Kinner & TG Association, welcomed the decision, calling it a major victory for the transgender community, which has been demanding better support for years.  

Why Is This Important?  

Transgender individuals in India often face discrimination, unemployment, and lack of access to basic services. By forming this board, the Odisha government aims to:  
  • Provide skill development programs to help transgender people secure jobs.  
  • Ensure affordable housing and healthcare services.  
  • Promote education by making schools and colleges more inclusive.  
  • Implement welfare schemes tailored to their needs.  
This initiative marks a positive shift toward equality and social justice, offering hope for a better future for transgender individuals in Odisha. With proper implementation, the board could significantly improve their quality of life and help them lead dignified, independent lives.  
The move has been widely praised, and activists hope other states will follow Odisha’s example in supporting marginalized communities.