MINDMAP – Mainstreaming Transgender Community | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Introduction

The recent ad campaign '#ItStartsWithYourName' by Starbucks India has highlighted the societal taboo against the transgender community.

Transgender

• The term 'transgender' refers to individuals who do not conform to the traditional binary gender classification of male and female. In India, the transgender community has a long history dating back centuries, recognized in ancient Hindu and Buddhist texts. 
• The legal recognition of the third gender by India's Supreme Court in 2014 marked a significant milestone.

Mainstreaming Transgender Community

• Mainstreaming entails fostering an inclusive society supportive of transgender individuals. This involves implementing policies and programs aimed at their socio-economic and political empowerment, as well as raising awareness among the general public. 
• Governments must also address the discrimination and stigma faced by the transgender community.

State Government Initiatives

• Kerala pioneered a transgender policy in 2015, establishing a transgender justice board and provisions for education, employment, and healthcare. 
• Tamil Nadu followed suit in 2018, introducing a scheme offering free sex reassignment surgery (SRS) along with educational and job opportunities.

Private Initiatives

• Companies like Tata Steel and Indian Oil Corp have initiated efforts to create inclusive workplaces for transgender individuals. 
• They have recruited transgender trainee engineers and provided education and skill development opportunities.

Global Initiatives

• Nepal set a precedent in 2007 by recognizing a third gender category on its citizenship certificates. Countries like Sweden and Canada have implemented LGBTQ+-friendly policies, including legal protections and anti-discrimination laws. 
• Starbucks stands out among global enterprises for its commitment to creating inclusive workplaces for transgender employees.

Concerns/Challenges

• Transgender individuals face discrimination in education and employment, leading to economic marginalization and poverty. 
• Their healthcare needs often go unmet, and they may face rejection from family due to religious and cultural beliefs. Violence against transgender individuals is pervasive, contributing to feelings of fear and insecurity.

Way Forward

• Governments should collaborate with civil society, NGOs, businesses, and other stakeholders to integrate the third gender into mainstream society. 
• Access to affordable and gender-affirming healthcare services is crucial. Programs like the Skill India Mission could facilitate the entry of transgender individuals into the workforce.

What the Transgender Community Can Do

• Transgender individuals can advocate for reservations in politics, public office, and employment. They can also unite under LGBTQ+ banners to raise awareness and organize events. 
• Creating a digital presence through websites and social media platforms can help amplify their voices, and collaborating with employers to develop awareness modules can promote respect and inclusion in the workplace.