- The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has launched a 15-day Entrepreneurship Development Programme under the SMILE scheme, aiming to promote economic empowerment of transgender persons and help them become self-reliant.
- This marks another step in the government’s commitment to support marginalized groups through rehabilitation and welfare initiatives.
About SMILE Scheme:
- The Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise (SMILE) scheme is a Central Sector Scheme designed to extend comprehensive rehabilitation and welfare support.
Sub-Schemes under SMILE:
- Comprehensive Rehabilitation for Welfare of Transgender Persons
- Comprehensive Rehabilitation of Persons Engaged in Begging
Key Features of SMILE:
- Education Support: Scholarships for transgender students from Class IX to post-graduation.
- Skill Development & Livelihood: Opportunities under the PM-DAKSH scheme.
- Healthcare: Gender-reaffirmation surgeries supported under PM-JAY in selected hospitals.
- Housing Facility: Establishment of ‘Garima Greh’ providing food, shelter, skill training, medical care, and recreational opportunities.
- Protection & Legal Support: Setting up Transgender Protection Cells in each state for monitoring offences and ensuring justice.
- Information & Assistance: A National Portal and Helpline for guidance and grievance redressal.
Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment
Significance:
- The SMILE scheme addresses social inclusion, dignity, and empowerment of transgender persons and individuals engaged in begging.
- By integrating education, health, livelihood, housing, and legal support, it provides a holistic welfare model aligned with the government’s vision of inclusive growth.