The Government of India has recently launched a 15-day Entrepreneurship Development Programme under the SMILE scheme, aimed at empowering transgender persons through economic self-reliance.
The Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise (SMILE) is a Central Sector Scheme implemented by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. It has two sub-schemes – one for the rehabilitation and welfare of transgender persons and the other for the rehabilitation of persons engaged in begging.
Key features of the scheme include:
- Scholarships for transgender students from Class IX to post-graduation.
- Skill development and livelihood support under the PM-DAKSH scheme.
- Healthcare assistance, including gender-reaffirmation surgeries under PM-JAY.
- Garima Greh housing facilities providing shelter, food, medical care, and skill training.
- Establishment of Transgender Protection Cells in states for safety and justice.
- A national portal and helpline to provide timely support and guidance.
The SMILE scheme is a comprehensive step toward social inclusion, dignity, and economic empowerment of transgender persons and those engaged in begging.
