Ramakanta Biswas

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has decided to include transgender community under its social welfare scheme- Madhu Babu Pension Yojana (MBPY).

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has approved a proposal in this regard, informed Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) Minister Ashok Panda.

In order to avail the benefit, transgenders will have to visit the official website of MBPY and apply for the pension in the given form. Pension ranging from Rs 500 to Rs 900 will be provided to them in accordance with their age group.

“In its 2019 election manifesto, the BJD had promised to add transgender community under the Madhu Babu pension scheme. Now party supremo and CM Naveen have approved the proposal. Around 6000 transgenders will be benefited from the scheme across the State,” Panda said.

The minister further informed that the CM has also ordered to provide additional Rs 1000 Covid financial assistance to Madhu Babu pensioners.

“The funds have already been allocated and very soon the amount will be released. Around 48 lakh people of the State will be get the benefit, informed the SSEPD minister.

In view of Covid-19 situation, the State government had earlier paid four months pension in advance to the beneficiaries for the month of April, May, June and July.

“This Rs 1000 is an extra aid given to the beneficiaries under the scheme. After the July month ends, the CM will take decision regarding further advance payment of pension to the beneficiaries,” the minister added.

Welcoming the decision, Meera Parida, president of All Odisha Kinnar Mahasangh said, “It was our long-standing demand before the State government for inclusion under various pension schemes. I would like to thank CM Naveen Patnaik for fulfilling the promises he had made. It will certainly help our community to join the mainstream of society and lead a dignified life.”

(Edited By Suryakant Jena)

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