The National Council for Transgender Persons (NCTP) was established in India in 2020 to formulate policies, legislation and projects for transgender welfare.
Composition and Formation
- Formed via Transgender Persons Act 2019 under Ministry of Social Justice
- Headed by Union Minister of Social Justice
- Comprises government representatives, transgender community leaders
Key Functions and Responsibilities
- Advising government on transgender policies, laws, programs
- Monitoring and evaluating transgender welfare schemes
- Redressing grievances of transgender persons
- Spreading awareness to reduce discrimination
Recent Meetings and Outcomes
- 3rd NCTP meeting held in Feb 2023 chaired by Social Justice Minister
- Key outcomes:
- Approval of pension, insurance benefits for transgender persons
- Reserved seats in medical, engineering colleges
- Sensitization of police, judiciary
- Action taken report on previous meetings submitted
Impactful Policy Changes and Legislation
- Transgender Persons Act amended in 2023 adding updated definitions
- National Policy for Transgender Persons draft prepared in 2023
- Legislation drafted granting adoption rights to transgender persons
Skills Development and Education
- 75 customized job roles created for transgender persons under NSQF 2023
- Scholarship scheme for Trans persons in higher education approved
- NCERT books updated removing stereotypes 2023-24 session
Health Benefits and Insurance
- Ayushman Bharat PMJAY health scheme coverage extended in 2024
- Dedicated healthcare centers in 18 states by 2024
- Rs 5 Lakh insurance cover per transgender person launched
Security, Justice and Empowerment
- Fast track courts set up in every state for speedy justice
- Sensitization workshops conducted for 30,000 police in 2023
- 25 State Transgender Resource Centers established with aid
Key Schemes Table
| Scheme | Benefits | Year Launched |
| Garima Greh | Shelter Homes for Trans persons | 2022 |
| PM-TMY | Monthly stipend Rs 1500 | 2022 |
| SAKSHAM | Upskilling & Placement Drive | 2024 |
Recent Developments
- In January 2024, the NCTP launched a toll-free national helpline number and online portal to provide counseling and legal aid to transgender persons facing harassment or discrimination.
- The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs in February 2024 mandated that all future government housing projects should reserve at least 1% dwellings for transgender persons.
- The Union Budget 2024-25 has allocated Rs. 210 crores specifically for transgender welfare schemes to be implemented by NCTP in the upcoming financial year.
- The Haryana government in December 2023 opened five residential schools exclusively for transgender students offering free education, boarding, skilling and vocational training.
- In 2023, over 500 transgender artists and crafts persons were provided marketing platform through government e-markets and handloom fairs under NCTP guidance.
- As of February 2024, transgender job seekers can apply in the reserved 0.1% job quota implemented in public sector banks like SBI and PNB.
- NCTP data states 395 transgender youth have been placed in corporate jobs in 2023, doubled from last year showing improving workplace inclusivity.
- In 2023, 2600 transgender persons were provided skill development training in IT, retail, healthcare, beauty industry trades & 450 received soft loans under Pradhan Mantri Dhan Awas scheme.
The establishment of NCTP has brought focus to ensuring transgender welfare in India through progressive policies, schemes and legislation changes aligned to their needs. The council has positively impacted 35 lakh lives with over Rs 300 Crores spent on beneficiaries annually. With strengthened awareness and sensitization across states, a supportive ecosystem is taking shape to claim their rightful place in society.
