In a first-of-its-kind initiative, Maharashtra’s Kolhapur district trained India’s first transgender disaster management team, equipping them to take on critical roles in flood response and emergency rescue operations. The 10-member team, trained by the District Disaster Management Authority, completed an intensive 10-day programme on Wednesday that included hands-on field training and the use of disaster response equipment. The initiative aims to integrate transgender individuals into frontline disaster response, offering both livelihood opportunities and a chance to serve the community.
Members of the team have been trained in search and rescue operations, evacuation procedures, assessing flood risks, clearing fallen trees, and responding to road accidents and other monsoon-related emergencies. They are now prepared to assist authorities during natural disasters, particularly in flood-prone areas of the district.
One of the team members, Shivani Gajbar, expressed confidence in their preparedness. “We are ready to take on the responsibility of rescuers and contribute to our district’s disaster response efforts,” she said, adding that the team is committed to ensuring timely assistance reaches those in need.
The initiative comes at a time when heavy rainfall has been affecting several parts of Maharashtra, with rivers in Kolhapur nearing danger levels. Authorities have already issued advisories urging residents to remain alert and move to safer locations if required.
As part of its broader preparedness strategy, the district has mobilised over 2,000 volunteers under the ‘Aapda Mitra’ and ‘Sakhi’ programmes. The inclusion of a dedicated transgender response team this year marks a significant expansion of the district’s disaster management framework.
District Disaster Management Officer Prasad Sankpal said the administration is fully prepared to handle potential flood situations in line with forecasts from the India Meteorological Department. “Our disaster management system is in place, and this newly trained transgender team will play an important role in responding to emergencies,” he said.
The initiative has been widely seen as a progressive step toward inclusion, as transgender individuals—often marginalised and facing limited employment opportunities—are being given a platform to contribute meaningfully to society. Members of the team expressed pride and gratitude at being entrusted with such responsibility, viewing their new role not just as a job, but as an opportunity to serve as protectors in times of crisis.
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