Implementation of Garima Grehs under SMILE Scheme

Context:

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment reported that 18 Garima Grehs are functional across 15 States/UTs, with approval for 3 new Garima Grehs in FY 2025–26.

About Garima Greh:

A shelter home initiative for transgender persons supported by the Department of Social Justice & Empowerment (DoSJE).
Provides food, shelter, medical care, counselling, yoga, meditation, and recreational facilities.
Focuses on capacity-building, skill development, and livelihood training for mainstreaming transgender persons.
Safeguards rights of transgender persons and protects them from atrocities and discrimination.

Current Status (2025):

18 Garima Grehs operational in 15 States/UTs.
3 new Garima Grehs approved for FY 2025–26.
429 residents currently staying in these shelters.
Proposals forwarded to 14 States/UTs for further expansion.
?8.25 crore released and utilised under the scheme.

Associated Scheme:

Garima Grehs function under the Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise (SMILE) Scheme.
SMILE Scheme provides comprehensive rehabilitation, welfare, and livelihood support for marginalized groups, including transgender persons and beggars.