The Sweekruti: Assistance to Parents of Transgender Children scheme is a component of the broader “Sweekruti” initiative implemented by the Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) Department, Government of Odisha. This scheme is designed to support the parents and guardians of transgender children by providing financial assistance. Its primary goal is to help families overcome societal intolerance, stigma, discrimination, and violence, ensuring a nurturing environment for transgender children.
Benefits
- Financial Assistance:
- ₹1,500 per transgender child per month.
- Assistance is provided until the child reaches 18 years.
- Post-Parent Support:
- In the event of a parent’s death, the guardian can receive supportive money upon submission of the required Certificate of Guardianship.
Eligibility
- Applicant: Must be the parent or legal guardian of the transgender child.
- Child’s Age: The transgender child must be under 18 years of age.
- Behavioral Criteria: The child should exhibit gender non-conforming behavior as certified by an affidavit.
Application Process
Offline Application
- Download the Application Form:
- Obtain the form (Annexure A or refer to Page No. 19 of the guidelines).
- Complete the Form:
- Fill out all required sections accurately.
- Submission:
- Submit the completed application form along with all attached documents to the Block/ULB Administration office.
- Receipt:
- Ensure you receive a submission receipt for future reference.
Contact Information:
- Address: SSEPD Department, Red Building, Lokseva Bhawan, Bhubaneswar – 751001
- Email: ssepdsec.od@nic.in
- Tel No: 0674-2392803
- List of District Social Security Officers: Available as per guidelines.
Documents Required
- Affidavit: Certifying the child’s gender non-conforming behavior.
- Proof of Age: Birth certificate or any valid age proof of the child.
- Certificate of Guardianship: In cases where a guardian is applying, a certificate from a Competent Authority is required.
Note: Parents must certify on an affidavit that they have a child showing gender non-conforming behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the “Assistance to Parents of Transgenders” scheme?
A1: It is a financial assistance initiative under the Sweekruti scheme designed to help parents or guardians of transgender children in Odisha.
Q2: What financial assistance is provided under this scheme?
A2: Eligible families receive ₹1,500 per transgender child per month until the child reaches 18 years.
Q3: Who is eligible for this financial assistance?
A3: The scheme is available to parents or legal guardians of transgender children under 18 years who exhibit gender non-conforming behavior.
Q4: What documentation is required to certify gender non-conforming behavior?
A4: An affidavit certifying the child’s gender non-conforming behavior is required.
Q5: What happens if the parent passes away?
A5: In such cases, supportive money is provided to the guardian, subject to the production of a valid Certificate of Guardianship.
Q6: How long does it take to process the application?
A6: Processing times may vary; it is advisable to refer to the official guidelines or contact the SSEPD Department for current timelines.
Q7: Can I apply for multiple children under this scheme?
A7: Yes, each eligible transgender child is entitled to the monthly assistance of ₹1,500.
Q8: What if my application is rejected?
A8: In case of rejection, the applicant should refer to the reasons provided and, if applicable, seek redressal as per the appeal procedures outlined in the guidelines.
Q9: How can I check the status of my application?
A9: Status checks can be made by contacting the respective Block/ULB Administration office or the SSEPD Department.
Q10: Is there any age limit for parents applying for this assistance?
A10: There is no age limit specified for parents; eligibility is based on the age and behavior of the transgender child.
Q11: Who can I contact for further assistance or questions regarding the scheme?
A11: You can contact the SSEPD Department at the address or phone number provided above, or via email at ssepdsec.od@nic.in.