In Madurai, an entrepreneurship wave has been started by transgender while aiming at inclusive workspaces in order to create a balanced community. Priya Babu, the founder of Transgender Resource Centre, is starting the movement by initiating a dry cleaning and saree-folding service in the city.
On Saturday, at the inauguration of the service, Priya said that three women and one transgender worker had been appointed. Judicial Magistrate R. Gayathri Devi said, “Transgenders are usually associated with sex trade and begging. The stigma associated with them is unfair. By introducing inclusive workplaces, men, women and students can relate to the other gender and provide them with an equal earning opportunity.” She further stated that it would help in creating a positive impression of transgender.
Training center
Priya said that whosoever would be appointed would be given 15 days of free training. They would learn ways to dry clean sarees and dhotis. Ms. Karpagam, the head trainer at the center, said that the employees would be taught various methods for less wear and tear of material, especially of silk. Actually, such classes charge 2,000 Indian rupees for a seven-day session.
Amount nearly around 50,000 had been invested for the Transgender Resource Centre.
Karpagam says, “It helps in optimal stiffness and prevents tearing.” She said that in a day 9 sarees could be cleaned and charges for each saree could vary from ₹50 and Rs 500.
Madurai District Social Welfare Officer P. Shanti said that such innovative initiatives are always welcomed by all. Priya said,“The right kind of proposals are eligible for reasonable loans and subsidies for transgenders.”
