By Ms Kadambari, Social Worker & Transgender Woman, Resource Mobilization Manager, CYDA
On 15th August 2025, Nandurbar district marked a historic day with the inauguration of its Transgender Cell. The launch on India’s 79th Independence Day sent a powerful message of dignity, equality, and inclusion for the transgender and LGBTQ+ community. It reflected the core values of the Indian Constitution, which stand for justice, liberty, fraternity, equality and equity. The cell is a sign of change and a space that brings strength to voices long kept at the margins.
The Transgender Cell has been established as a support system where individuals can seek help without fear or hesitation. It will provide legal aid, counseling, livelihood opportunities, and access to welfare schemes. More importantly, it will create opportunities that respect identity, encourage participation, and promote empowerment. This step goes beyond recognition and will place inclusion into practice in everyday life. A unique feature of the cell is that its management will lie with the community members themselves. At the same time, they will receive proper mentorship and guidance to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
The inauguration was led by Hon. Guardian Minister of Nandurbar, Mr. Manikrao Kokate, and Hon. District Collector, Dr. Mitali Sethi (IAS). While addressing the gathering, Mr. Kokate expressed his full support and assured that government resources would be made available to help the community grow and thrive. Dr. Sethi shared that society is undergoing a positive transformation and that this change will continue to gain strength. She announced the upcoming launch of a “Trans Café” in the district, a step that received warm appreciation. The café will open economic opportunities while standing as a symbol of visibility and acceptance. Ms Kadambari from the Resource Mobilization Unit at CYDA shared, “As a transgender woman, I understand the struggles of the community members. Through this initiative, we are making a strong commitment to support the holistic development of both tribal communities and the LGBTIQA+ community, enabling them to integrate confidently into the mainstream of society.”
The event was attended by community members, activists, and representatives from both government and civil society. Their presence underlined the importance of collective action in building an inclusive future. The launch of the cell was made possible through the collaborative effort of the Social Welfare Department, Nandurbar, Centre for Youth Development and Activities (CYDA), Rainbow Roots Foundation (Pune), and several community-based organizations and NGOs in Nandurbar. Their joint efforts transformed the idea into reality and laid the foundation for long-term work in the district. Special acknowledgement goes to Mr. Sundarsing Vasave, Assistant Commissioner of the Social Welfare Department, whose support and action helped secure space and facilities for the cell. The cooperation and active support of the district administration staff played a key role in establishing the cell.
The inauguration of the Transgender Cell marks a turning point for Nandurbar. Now transgender persons have a dedicated place to seek help, training, and recognition. It represents equality, social justice, and hope for a more inclusive tomorrow. By bringing together government, civil society, and the community, this milestone shows how progress becomes possible when everyone works with a shared vision.
