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Government Reiterates Commitment to Transgender Rights and SMILE Initiative Progress.

National | Dated: 20 Nov 2025

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment reiterated the government's commitment to transgender rights, highlighting the progress of the SMILE (Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) initiative. Key legal provisions guaranteeing transgender rights include the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, which ensures legal recognition and welfare measures. The government aims to enhance the full rollout of Ayushman Bharat TG Plus, providing comprehensive health services, including gender-affirming care. The national portal for transgender persons is actively used for hassle-free certification, aligning with the landmark NALSA judgment of 2014.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • The SMILE initiative supports Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise.
  • The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act was enacted in 2019.
  • The Ayushman Bharat TG Plus scheme offers comprehensive health services to the community.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • The National Council for Transgender Persons was constituted under the 2019 Act.
  • There is a growing demand for integrating LGBTQIA+ competencies into medical curricula.
  • Digital inclusion is increasing through the National Portal for Transgender Persons.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Which government scheme primarily supports transgender persons for livelihood and healthcare?

Correct Answer: SMILE

🚀 Quick Recap:

About Transgender Rights

  • (i) Legal Recognition: Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 (ii) Constitutional Guarantee: Articles 14, 15, 19, and 21.
  • (iii) Healthcare: Ayushman Bharat TG Plus includes gender-affirming care. (iv) Landmark Judgment: NALSA v. Union of India (2014) recognized the third gender.