Ramgarh, February 18 In a pioneering initiative in Jharkhand, a cafe has been established in the Ramgarh district that will be exclusively run by members of the transgender community.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Faiz Aq Ahmed Mumtaz inaugurated the 'TransCafe' at the district collectorate park on Tuesday.
The initiative, undertaken by the district administration, will be managed by a group of 10 transgender individuals.
"For far too long, members of the transgender community have faced social exclusion and economic marginalisation, and it is time we address these historical injustices through concrete action," Mumtaz said after inaugurating the cafe.
"Our initiative aims to integrate them into the mainstream while respecting their identity and rights. We are committed to creating an inclusive Ramgarh where everyone can live with respect, safety, and opportunity," he said.
The DC stated that dedicated OPD services are being provided to the transgender community at the district hospital every Saturday afternoon.
"Three dedicated toilets have been opened for them recently at different public places. We have also employed two members of the community, one in the DC office and another in Sadar Hospital, through outsourcing," he added.
A self-help group has been formed, and it will manage the cafe, the DC said.
SHG president Himanshi Pradhan said the initiative would help transgender persons to lead a respectful life.
Himanshi, who is pursuing an MBA from IGNOU, said the steps taken by the district administration would help the overall development of the community and uplift their social status.