Transgender Entrepreneurship- challenges and support system in Assam

Transgender persons in most parts of India, are marginalized and face discrimination in public places, at work and also in the delivery of basic services like health care and education. They struggle for recognition and acceptance within the society and live an economically backward life, thus pushing them to odd work such as begging, sex-work etc. Lack of education qualification, dearth of financial capital, stigma in work-place and society are some of the reasons for their financial instability. The “Leave No One Behind” (LNOB) principle of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development aims at creating a more equitable world by ending discrimination and exclusion, eradicating poverty, and reducing inequalities and vulnerabilities. The transgender community faces substantial obstacles in securing jobs due to low education qualification and pervasive social stigma. Thus, entrepreneurship can be a powerful way to break down barriers and create opportunities for financial stability and independence. The present study puts light on transgender entrepreneurship and support system in Assam. Through this article, the researcher calls upon the Government, social entrepreneurs, policy-makers and organizations to collaborate and create a supportive ecosystem in Assam, providing resources, mentorship, and opportunities for transgender entrepreneurship.