Chhattisgarh: Congress-led state Chhattisgarh emerged as the first state to draft a policy for the welfare of people belonging to the third gender community and to connect them with mainstream societies. At an event organized at the residence office on Sunday, CM Baghel felicitated 13 newly appointed constables belonging to the third gender society. Speaking on the occasion, Baghel extended wishes to the appointees and said, “For the rehabilitation of third genders and protection of their rights, Chhattisgarh Government has constituted a welfare board. Moreover, the State Government has made a provision of Rs 76 lakh in this year’s budget for setting up of ashram-cum-rehabilitation centre for third gender people”.
It was informed that the state has developed online software to compile data related to the third gender of the society and successfully identified 2,919 individuals of their community. Of the total registered, identity cards were given to 1,025 who were now eligible for ration cards, Aadhar cards and other government schemes. Striking a conversation with the constables appointed, Baghel said, “By taking benefit of the Chhattisgarh Government’s policy and program run for the welfare of the third gender community, you have given a new direction to your life and become inspiration for others.”
The appointed third gender constables expressed gratitude towards the state administration’s new policy. As many as 97 candidates had participated in the recruitment process.
The Chhattisgarh Government is working to protect the constitutional rights and interests of the people of all castes, classes and communities and gender stated CM Baghel elaborating the policy of the State Government to promote social harmony. The program was attended by State Health Department Minister T S Singhdeo, Agriculture and Water Resource Minister Ravindra Choubey, Forest Minister Mohammad Akbar, School Education Minister Dr Premsai Singh Tekam.