The Hindu : Tamil Nadu News : “Give ration, identity cards”

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Wednesday, May 28, 2008
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Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu

“Give ration, identity cards”

Staff Reporter

Special grievance day for members of transgender community

THENI: Members of transgender community demanded all facilities such as group houses, ration card and financial assistance extended by the government to the poor and downtrodden for their survival without depending on others.

They were taking part in a special grievance day meeting, first of its kind, presided over by the District Revenue Officer U. Thasa Nathan held at the collectorate here on Tuesday.

“We wanted a ration card for food and a shelter to live. An identity card would be helpful for us to get other benefits.”

Reacting to their demands, the DRO said that all the group houses sanctioned for this year had been allotted to beneficiaries.

Top priority would be given in the next financial year. More over, you need land to sanction group houses, he said.

A member replied that lands were offered to 15 members at Melmangalam village.

Suitable instructions would be given to the District Supply Officer for issuance of ration card to eligible members, he added.

Another member stated that identity cards had been issued in Vellore, Erode and Coimbatore districts.

Some members wanted financial assistance to engage in income generation activities.

Reacting to this, Mr. Thasanathan asked to start self-help groups for revolving fund. They informed that three groups had already been formed.

Old age pension

Majority of members sought age relaxation for getting old age pension as they struggled to lead a life in the evening of the lives and healthcare. Joint Director of Health services would be consulted on healthcare, the DRO assured.

Thirty one members took part in the special grievances day meet.

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