C. M. Paul
Visakhapatanam, May 26, 2025: A non-governmental organization based in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, has opened a sustainable livelihood center for transgender individuals.
The Nee Thodu Society for Transgender Persons operates under the leadership of Sister Amitha Polimetla, its founder director. The member of the Salvatorian Sisters Congregation is committed to providing skill training and employment opportunities.
The center aims to enable transgender individuals to lead dignified lives and integrate into mainstream society.
“Our goal with the Sustainable Livelihood Center is to dismantle the barriers that have historically excluded the transgender community,” stated Sister Polimetla, an advocate for skills-based empowerment. “We believe that with the right skills and opportunities, every individual can lead a life of dignity and contribute meaningfully to society.”
She emphasized the transformative vision of the center: “This center is more than just a skill training facility; it’s a beacon of hope. It represents our commitment to creating a future where transgender individuals are not just tolerated, but truly integrated and empowered.”
Currently, the center offers short-term courses in tailoring, jute bag making, and paper plate production.
The society envisions expanding its services to include a Drop-In Center where transgender individuals can access counseling, legal aid, social entitlements, and participate in recreational gatherings to discuss their challenges and find solutions collectively.
The society believes in education as the strongest tool for empowerment. The organization provides 10 scholarships every year to transgender students, enabling them to break free from the cycle of marginalization.
Sister Polimetla’s dedication to the transgender community is rooted in her academic and humanitarian work. Her doctoral research at the Andhra University examined the socioeconomic challenges faced by transgenders in the coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh.
The study revealed stark realities: a vast majority of transgender persons are forced into begging, sex work, or badhai (traditional dance performances) due to pervasive stigma and a severe lack of employment opportunities.
Alarmingly, a survey conducted as part of her research indicated that only 6% of transgender respondents had access to formal or informal jobs, underscoring the urgent need for inclusive employment avenues.
Reflecting on these findings, the nun said: “My research highlighted the harsh realities of marginalization but also the immense potential within the transgender community. This center is a direct response to that need, providing tangible pathways to self-reliance and respect.”
Her initial interactions led to the establishment of Nee Thodu Society (which means “to accompany you” or “to be with you” in Telugu).
The organization not only provides skill training but also plays a crucial role in helping transgender individuals obtain essential identity documents such as Transgender ID cards, Aadhaar cards, ration cards, health cards, and voter IDs—enabling access to vital government welfare schemes.
In addition to these initiatives, Sr. Amitha and her team have been actively conducting awareness programs in government schools, colleges, women’s groups, religious groups, and even in pre-marital counseling courses. These sessions are designed to dismantle prejudice, challenge stigma, and foster acceptance of the transgender community in society.
The impact is already palpable among beneficiaries. One transgender participant shared: “Before this center, opportunities for people like me were almost non-existent. Now, I feel hopeful for the first time. I’m learning skills that will help me earn a living and live with pride.”
The Sustainable Livelihood Center stands as a powerful testament to Sr. Amitha’s unwavering commitment to social justice and inclusivity. By addressing the root causes of marginalization and offering practical solutions, the center fosters a society where transgender individuals are recognized, respected, and empowered to thrive.
At the inauguration, Mr. Ganta Ravi Teja, son of the local MLA, commended the initiative, stating:”The work being done by Nee Thodu Society and Sr. Dr. Amitha Polimetla is truly transformative. This Sustainable Livelihood Center is a crucial step towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable society for all.”
Notably, Sr. Amitha is a pioneer in forming and registering Transgender Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under government schemes. Ms. Chandu, President of one such SHG, praised Sr. Amitha’s efforts, saying: “Nee Thodu Society has given us not just training but also a sense of belonging. They’ve shown us that our dreams are valid and that we deserve a place in society.”
In another groundbreaking initiative, Sr. Amitha has established Anti-Discrimination Cells (ADCs) at the school level to identify and support students who identify as transgender. These cells play a crucial role in helping Nee Thodu Society reach and nurture the next generation of transgender individuals.
Sr. Amitha also acknowledges the tireless efforts of her dedicated staff and transgender community volunteers, who walk alongside her in the mission to restore the lost dignity of transgender persons in our society.