Tamil Nadu Government Unveils State Transgender Policy 2025 to Empower and Protect Transgender Individuals

Chennai – Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru. M.K. Stalin, today launched the “Tamil Nadu State Transgender Policy – 2025” at the Secretariat, reaffirming the State’s commitment to equality, dignity, and inclusion for the transgender community.

A Vision Rooted in Justice and Inclusion

This pioneering policy draws from the profound social justice philosophy that recognizes transgender persons as equal citizens with inherent dignity and rights. Echoing the legacy of former Chief Minister Kalaignar Karunanidhi, who replaced derogatory terms with the respectful Tamil word “Thirunangai,” the policy aligns with the broader goal of building a fair and inclusive society.

Tamil Nadu, the first state in India to establish a Transgender Welfare Board (on April 15, 2008), has consistently led from the front with welfare initiatives like monthly pensions of ₹1,500, free housing, life insurance, tailoring machines, livelihood grants, vocational training, and educational support including full tuition and hostel fee coverage for higher education.

Education as Empowerment

To further encourage higher education among transgender persons, the government will now provide a monthly education incentive of ₹1,000 under the Pudhumai Penn and Moovalur Ramamirtham schemes. This initiative is designed to remove financial barriers and ensure equitable access to higher learning.

Employment and Social Security

Recognizing the need for secure livelihoods, the State has initiated steps to create dedicated employment zones for transgender persons in locations such as Chennai, Avadi, and Tambaram. Additionally, “Safe Shelter Homes” called Aran Illams have been set up in Chennai and Madurai, providing secure accommodation for those without family support or facing displacement.

Tamil Nadu State Transgender Policy – 2025: Core Principles and Objectives

The policy is aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and aims to ensure:

• Protection and prioritization of fundamental rights
• Official recognition and legal safeguards
• Affirmation of gender identity and dignity
• Skilling and livelihood support
• Inclusive and accessible education
• Social security and safe housing
• Participation and representation in governance
• Awareness campaigns and grievance redressal
• Monitoring, accountability, and review mechanisms

Governance and Implementation

The policy will be implemented through a multi-tier governance structure:

• At the state level, a high-powered steering committee chaired by the Chief Secretary will meet biannually to evaluate implementation and suggest improvements.
• At the district level, Collectors will head monitoring committees meeting quarterly to review local implementation, raise awareness, and address grievances.

This policy is not a form of charity, but a recognition of transgender individuals’ rightful place in society. By guaranteeing legal protections, socio-economic opportunities, and political inclusion, the Tamil Nadu government sends a strong message: “Transgender persons are full citizens – their rights are non-negotiable.”

Event Dignitaries

The launch event was graced by:

• Thiru. P. Geetha Jeevan, Hon’ble Minister for Social Welfare and Women Empowerment
• Thiru. N. Muthuvel, IAS, Secretary, Social Welfare Department
• Thiru. S. Murali Dharan, Additional Secretary, Social Welfare
• Thiru. S. Malarvizhi, Director, Social Welfare
• Ms. Narthaki Nataraj, Classical Dancer and State Planning Committee Member

Issued by:
Directorate of Information and Public Relations, Chennai – 9