A group of transgender people in India is breaking new ground by training to become disaster responders.
The team was formed in Kolhapur, a district in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. It is believed to be India’s first transgender disaster rescue team.
The initiative was created by the Kolhapur District Disaster Management Authority with support from Maitri, a transgender-led organisation. So far, 15 transgender people have joined the programme.
The volunteers have received training in several areas. These include water rescue, first aid, CPR and lifesaving techniques. They have also learned how to operate rescue boats and help people during floods and other emergencies.
The first group completed a three-day training programme in May. They later took part in a 10-day water rescue course at Rajaram Lake in Kolhapur.
The idea started during the COVID-19 pandemic. Local officials worked with members of the transgender community while providing food and other support. This helped build a relationship between the community and disaster management officials.
The programme later developed into an effort to train transgender people as emergency responders.
For the volunteers, the programme is also a chance to challenge stereotypes about transgender people.
Mayuri Alvekar, who heads Maitri, said transgender people are often treated unfairly and are sometimes reduced to stereotypes about begging or sex work. She said the rescue programme can help show that transgender people can also play important roles in their communities.
Some members of the team already have professional backgrounds. One volunteer, Suhasini Devmane, worked as an Ayurvedic therapist and is also known as Maharashtra’s first transgender tourist guide. Another volunteer, Shivani Gajabar, is studying for a Master of Social Work degree.
The team has already helped at some road accidents, according to local disaster officials. It was also placed on standby during the 2026 monsoon season.
Officials now want to expand the programme. Future training could include wildlife rescue and other emergency skills. They are also considering giving the volunteers Home Guard status, which could provide them with an honorarium.
The idea is also attracting interest from other parts of Maharashtra. Transgender groups from several districts have reportedly contacted the Kolhapur team about starting similar programmes.
The initiative gives transgender people a new role in disaster response. It also shows how communities that have often faced exclusion can become active members of emergency services and public life.
Courtesy : Transgenderfeed
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