As part of the ‘One Station One Product’ (OSOP) initiative launched by the Ministry of Railways, South Central Railways has allotted an OSOP stall and trolley stand to the transgender community at the newly inaugurated Charlapalli Terminal Station. The stall offers a variety of products handmade by transgender individuals, including snacks, jute bags, and soaps.

On the occasion of the stall’s opening, Jasmine, a transgender entrepreneur, shared her thoughts: “For a long time, the transgender community has faced a lack of job opportunities and exclusion. But now, we’ve come together to start our own ventures. We’ve been given a stall and a trolley stand at Charlapalli Terminal, a place where we can showcase our work and be seen for who we are.” Jasmine, who runs a snack business, takes pride in offering crispy treats she makes herself. Other products at the stall include unique handmade jute bags crafted by transwomen Tripura and Sahasra, and soaps made by transman Kiran Raj.

The OSOP initiative aims to promote local and indigenous products while creating additional income opportunities for marginalized communities. Since its announcement in the Union Budget of 2022-23, it has gained a great response, with 223 OSOP stalls now operating at 205 railway stations across South Central Railway, including 77 in Telangana and 104 in Andhra Pradesh.

Shri Arun Kumar Jain, General Manager of SCR, emphasized the zone’s commitment to providing equal opportunities for all sections of society. He expressed his happiness that the transgender community was given a platform at Charlapalli Station to showcase their creativity and talent. He also noted that the stall would benefit both self-help groups and social entrepreneurs, while also serving the needs of traveling passengers.

This initiative not only boosts visibility for the transgender community but also marks a significant step toward inclusion and equality.

Source/SCR