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SMILE: support for transgender persons (and persons engaged in begging)

SMILE: support for transgender persons (and persons engaged in begging) is a central government scheme. For transgender persons: scholarships from class 9, skill training, shelter homes (Garima Greh), and health cover including gender-affirming care through the Ayushman Bharat TG Plus card. Who qualifies: Transgender persons with a certificate from the National Portal for Transgender Persons. Applying is free on socialjustice.gov.in.

Last updated: Reviewed by IndiaDigital editorsSources

You getSee benefit below
WhereAll India (central government)
Run byMinistry of Social Justice and Empowerment
Last checked1 November 2026

What do you get under SMILE scheme?

For transgender persons: scholarships from class 9, skill training, shelter homes (Garima Greh), and health cover including gender-affirming care through the Ayushman Bharat TG Plus card. A separate part rehabilitates people engaged in begging.

Who is eligible for SMILE scheme?

  • Transgender persons with a certificate from the National Portal for Transgender Persons.

Documents needed for SMILE scheme

0 of 3 ready

Offices may ask for more. Check the official list before you go.

How to apply for SMILE scheme

  1. First get a transgender certificate and ID card on the National Portal for Transgender Persons.
  2. Then apply for the SMILE benefits on the same portal or through the district social welfare office.

Go to the official site ↗

Common questions

Who is eligible for SMILE scheme?

Transgender persons with a certificate from the National Portal for Transgender Persons.

How much do I get under SMILE scheme?

For transgender persons: scholarships from class 9, skill training, shelter homes (Garima Greh), and health cover including gender-affirming care through the Ayushman Bharat TG Plus card. A separate part rehabilitates people engaged in begging.

What documents do I need for SMILE scheme?

Aadhaar card (linked to your mobile number); Passport-size photo; Self-declaration in the prescribed form.

How do I apply for SMILE scheme?

First get a transgender certificate and ID card on the National Portal for Transgender Persons. Then apply for the SMILE benefits on the same portal or through the district social welfare office. Official site: https://socialjustice.gov.in/schemes

Do I have to pay anyone to apply for SMILE scheme?

No. Applying for a government scheme is free on the official portal, and at Common Service Centres you pay only the notified service fee, if any. Never pay an agent who promises approval.

Official sources

Last checked 1 November 2026; next review by 1 May 2027. Rules and amounts change, so confirm on the official site before you apply. IndiaDigital is independent and not a government site.

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