In a powerful move towards inclusive healthcare, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, in collaboration with the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), hosted a national consultation aimed at turning policy into practice for transgender care across the country. 

Held in a hybrid format at the prestigious Dr. Ramalingaswami Board Room, the event brought together over 100 participants from across India — from medical experts and senior government officials to transgender community members and social activists — all focused on one mission: to ensure that every transgender individual in India receives respectful, accessible, and quality healthcare. 

The consultation centered around the theme “Implementation of SOPs at Institutional Levels Across the Country” — a crucial next step following the rollout of national guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for transgender healthcare. With representation from all AIIMS institutions, domain experts from specialties such as plastic surgery, endocrinology, psychiatry, and nursing, along with NGOs and legal professionals, the event sparked a meaningful dialogue that combined science, policy, and lived experience. 

AIIMS New Delhi didn’t just host the event — it also stepped up to take the lead. Reaffirming its commitment to champion transgender health, the institute pledged to implement the SOPs at every level of care.  Dr. Maneesh Singhal, the Organizing Chairperson, set the tone with a passionate call for action. “It’s time we brought medical, mental health, and social support under one roof. Transgender individuals face unique, often invisible challenges — and we need to meet those with empathy and expertise,” he said.

Dr. Singhal also highlighted the pivotal role of the Ayushman Bharat scheme in bridging gaps and shared details of the pioneering work already underway at AIIMS in gender-affirming care.  The voices that truly stood out, however, were those from the transgender community itself. Activists and community leaders shared heartfelt experiences, urging healthcare providers to adopt an approach that is not just clinical but compassionate.

Their stories served as powerful reminders that policies must reflect real-world needs.  Adding to the momentum, Dr. Kshitija Singh and Dr. Vivek Dixit emphasized the urgent need to train paramedics and frontline health workers in gender sensitivity. “Respect, dignity, and understanding should begin the moment a transgender person walks into a clinic,” they said. 

The consultation wrapped up with a vote of thanks and a sense of collective purpose. Delegates were recognized for their contributions and shared a closing meal — a fitting end to a day that blended policy, progress, and hope.  As AIIMS New Delhi leads the charge, this national consultation marks a turning point in India’s journey toward equitable healthcare.

With committed institutions, engaged communities, and a clear roadmap in hand, the future of transgender care in India looks more inclusive — and more promising — than ever.