First-of-its-kind trans tea stall set up by Indian Railways at Guwahati station

In a landmark initiative, Indian Railways has set up a tea stall at Guwahati station that will be fully operated and managed by members of the transgender community.

The idea to open a 'Trans tea stall' was conceived and implemented by the North East Frontier Railway (NEFR) to empower the community, said its spokesperson Sabyasachi De. NEFR has collaborated with All Assam Transgender Association for the initiative, he said.

The 'Trans Tea Stall' at platform number one of Guwahati station was inaugurated by NF Railways General Manager Anshul Gupta on Friday. Speaking to reporters, Gupta said it was a "first-of-its-kind initiative by any government organization in the country". NF Railway plans to open more such tea stalls at other stations in the region, he said.

Assam Transgender Welfare Board Associate Vice-Chairperson Swati Bidhan Baruah said she hoped more trans people would be rehabilitated under various government schemes in the coming days.

Last year, the Center approved a comprehensive program "Supporting Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Entrepreneurship", which includes a sub-programme for rehabilitation and welfare of transgender people.