Pune: In a groundbreaking initiative, Maharashtra's first transgender help desk was inaugurated in Vishrantwadi, Pune, on the occasion of August Kranti Day.

This pioneering effort was led by the Assistant Commissioner of Social Welfare Office in collaboration with the Centre for Advocacy and Research.

The help desk aims to streamline access to various government social security and healthcare schemes for transgender individuals, providing essential services and documentation support under one roof.

The help desk was inaugurated by Assistant Commissioner of Social Welfare Vishal Londhe and transgender representatives. The help desk is established in Vishrantwadi.

Present at the event were Anand Bakhale, State Project Manager of the Centre for Advocacy and Research, Pritesh Kamble, Deputy Social Development Officer of Pune Municipal Corporation's Social Development Department Rajendra More, District Coordinator of Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Yojana Dr. Priti Lokhande,

Pune Municipal Corporation's Social Worker Sandeep Kamble, John Paul Slum Development's George Swami, and transgender activists Aishwarya Pandav, Ashika Punekar, and Monika Punekar.

Many individuals had taken the initiative to establish a transgender board in Maharashtra, leading to the creation of this help desk as the next step.

Assistant Commissioner Vishal Londhe emphasized that everyone should strive at their level to stop discrimination against transgender citizens, and the creation of this help desk is a significant step in that direction by their department.

The help desk will coordinate to ensure that more transgender individuals receive identity cards, which will facilitate their access to various government schemes.

Shubhangi Chowgule has been appointed to manage the help desk, and a helpline number, 9156888360, has been issued for assistance and guidance.