Leadership including Prof. V. Venkata Ramana (Director, NITHM), addressing the gathering.

In his welcome address at the inaugural ceremony, Prof. V. Venkata Ramana highlighted the pivotal role of the National Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (NITHM) in driving social change through education.

Key Points from the Director’s Speech:

• A Hub for Inclusive Learning: Prof. V. Venkata Ramana expressed immense pride in NITHM being chosen as a primary partner for this landmark initiative. He noted that the institute is committed to opening its doors to all sections of society, ensuring that the campus is a space for true inclusion.
• Skill Development as Empowerment: He emphasized that NITHM is hosting these training programs—specifically the Hotel Management and Canteen Chef course—to provide high-quality, industry-standard vocational skills.
• Seizing the Opportunity: Addressing the 91 trainees, the Director encouraged them to take full advantage of the modern facilities and expert faculty at NITHM. He stated that these skills would help them transition into stable, professional careers in the global tourism and hospitality sectors.
• Collaborative Excellence: Prof. V. Venkata Ramana thanked the Government of Telangana and Hon’ble Minister Sri Adluri Laxman Kumar Garu for their vision. He also acknowledged the partnership with the Telangana State Aviation Academy and Maruti Suzuki Driving School, highlighting that such collaborations are essential for building a diverse and skilled workforce.
• Vision for the Future: He reaffirmed that NITHM will continue to support the community beyond the training phase, helping to bridge the gap between education and mainstream employment.

"At NITHM, we believe that talent knows no gender. Our goal is to provide the best training possible so that every individual can contribute to the state's growth and lead a life of dignity and success."

Address by Sri Adluri Laxman Kumar Garu, Hon’ble Minister for Transgender Welfare, Telangana

• Commitment to Equality: The Minister emphasized that under the leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Sri A. Revanth Reddy, the Government is dedicated to ensuring every section of society—especially the marginalized—progresses equally.
• Restoring Dignity: He noted that the Government has recognized the long-standing social and economic hardships faced by the transgender community and is committed to ensuring they live with self-respect and dignity.
• Focus on Self-Reliance: The Minister stated that the state is prioritizing education, skill development, and employment to help transgender persons achieve financial independence.
• Modernizing Opportunities: By launching specialized training in Drone Piloting, Hotel Management, and Car Driving, the Government aims to provide the community with access to modern, high-demand sectors.
• Investment in the Future: With a dedicated fund of Rs. 17.72 lakhs for these 91 trainees, the Minister reaffirmed that the Government will continue to create pathways for equal rights, professional growth, and financial stability.

"Our goal is simple: to ensure that the transgender community is no longer on the sidelines but is an empowered, self-reliant, and respected part of the New Telangana."

3.Economic Rehabilitation & Identity

The state facilitates digital access to identity and financial independence through various schemes.

• National Portal & ID Cards: 1,936 Transgender ID Cards issued across 33 districts.
• Financial Assistance: Subsidies ranging from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 2,00,000 for establishing small businesses.
• Budget:Rs. 1.00 Crore allocated annually through 2026-27.

Participants engaging during the vocational training sessions.

4. Health, Safety & Protection

Telangana leads the nation with specialized healthcare and safety infrastructure tailored for the community.

• Mythri Trans Clinics: 32 dedicated clinics providing free gender-affirming care and mental health support.
• Pride Place: A dedicated protection cell within the Telangana Police Women’s Safety Wing.
• Vikalp Center: A unique counseling and rehabilitation center located within a police station to offer mainstream job opportunities.

Transgender community members participating in the empowerment program.

5.Mainstreaming Employment

The Government has successfully integrated community members into essential public services:

• 39 Traffic Assistants in the Police Department.
• 20 Security Guards in the Hyderabad Metro Rail.

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