The Garima Greh Scheme is a support program started by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in India. This scheme is specially made for transgender persons who are abandoned or have no place to live. It give them a safe place to stay, food, clothes, medical help, and other basic needs. More than just shelter, Garima Greh also provides training so that transgender persons can learn skills and live an independent and respectful life.
Garima Greh Scheme is a part of the SMILE scheme (Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise). It helps transgender persons find respect, support, and opportunities to grow. This initiative also focuses on protecting their rights and bringing them back into society with dignity.

This article explains everything you need to know about the Garima Greh Scheme – from eligibility, benefits, and how to apply, to contact details and FAQs. Let’s understand how this scheme is bringing a positive change in the lives of many.
About Garima Greh Scheme
The Garima Greh Scheme is launched to provide free shelter and care to transgender individuals who are homeless, abandoned, or need support. It offer a safe and friendly environment where transgender persons can live peacefully and receive all necessary support. It also help them learn new skill so they can find job or start something on their own.
If you or someone you know is a transgender person in need of support, Garima Greh Scheme can offer a safe, supportive, and respectful environment to start a better life.
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Garima Greh Scheme Overview Table
Scheme Name | Garima Greh Scheme 2025 |
Launched By | Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India |
Part of | SMILE (Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) |
Beneficiaries | Destitute and abandoned transgender persons |
Main Services | Free shelter, food, clothes, medical care, skill training |
Mode of Application | Offline |
Application Location | Nearest Garima Greh Shelter Home |
Website to check shelters | transgender.dosje.gov.in |
Objectives of Garima Greh Scheme
- Shelter and Basic Needs: To give transgender persons a place to stay, food, clothing, recreation, and health care.
- Protection of Rights: To protect the legal and human rights of transgender individual.
- Skill Development: To train and upgrade their skills so they can work and live with respect.
- Social Inclusion: To support them in joining society again and fight against stigma and discrimination.
Eligibility
To stay in a Garima Greh Scheme, transgender persons must meet these rules:
- Must have a Transgender Certificate and ID Card from the National Portal or local authority.
- Age should be between 18 and 60 years.
- Must be abandoned or homeless.
- Must be unemployed and not doing any job or business.
- Should not be involved in begging or sex work.
- Preferably from below the poverty line category.
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Benefits of Garima Greh Scheme
Free Shelter Homes: Safe and supportive accommodation for transgender individuals.
- Basic Needs Covered: Provided free of cost food and clothing, check health, and recreational activities.
- Counseling Support: Offers regular sessions of mental and personal counseling.
- Skill Training: Vocational courses to enable them to hold jobs or set up their own businesses.
- Rehabilitation: Supports establishment into societies with confidence and dignity.
Required Documents
Here are the documents needed to apply for the Garima Greh Scheme:
- Transgender Certificate and ID Card (from the National Portal or local authority)
- Medical Certificate (if the person has undergone sex change surgery)
- Identity Proof like Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, etc.
- Admission Form (Annexure 2) and Personal Affidavit (Annexure 3) (available at shelter homes)
How to Apply for Garima Greh Scheme 2025
The application process is completely offline. Follow these steps:
- Find a Shelter Home: Visit transgender.dosje.gov.in to find the nearest Garima Greh shelter.

- Visit the Shelter: Go to the shelter home with your documents.
- Fill the Form: Complete the Admission Form (Annexure 2) and Personal Affidavit (Annexure 3).
- Document Verification: Submit your forms and documents to the shelter authority.
- Admission: Once verified, you will be admitted to the Garima Greh.
Contact Details
You can find the complete list of Garima Greh Shelters across India through the official portal:
- List of Garima Greh NGOs – Click Here
- Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India
- Official Website: https://transgender.dosje.gov.in
FAQs
Do I get money under this scheme?
No. The scheme only offers shelter and other non-cash benefits like food, care, and training.
Is there any fee for staying in Garima Greh?
No. All services under the Garima Greh Scheme are completely free of cost.
Can I apply online?
No. The application process is offline, but you can check shelter locations online.
What if I don’t have a Transgender Certificate?
You must first get the Transgender Certificate and Identity Card from the national portal or district/block office to apply.
Is counseling provided in Garima Greh?
Yes. Personal and mental health counseling is part of the scheme.