SMILE SCHEME (Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise)

Current Context : The Government of India launched a 15-day Entrepreneurship Development Programme under SMILE Scheme to empower transgender persons.

ABOUT SMILE SCHEME

• Type: Central Sector Scheme under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment.
• Sub-Schemes:
  1. Welfare of Transgender Persons.
  2. Welfare of Persons Engaged in Begging.
• Key Features:
  1. Scholarships: For transgender students (Class IX to post-graduation).
  2. Skill Development: Under PM-DAKSH scheme.
  3. Healthcare: Gender-reaffirmation surgeries supported under PM-JAY.
  4. Housing: Garima Greh with food, clothing, medical support, and training.
  5. Transgender Protection Cells in every state for timely redressal of offences.
  6. National Portal & Helpline for grievance support.