Abstract

Despite progressive legal advancements such as the NALSA judgment (2014) and the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, the lived realities of transgender individuals in India—particularly in the field of education—remain precarious and marginalized. This paper undertakes a comparative, state-wise analysis of transgender education policies across select Indian states, highlighting both progressive and regressive practices. Special attention is paid to Tamil Nadu and Kerala, recognized for pioneering welfare models, juxtaposed against northern states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar that exhibit policy inertia. The study further investigates the gap between law and implementation, drawing on budgetary allocations, inclusivity metrics, and the presence or absence of grievance redressal mechanisms. Finally, it evaluates the National Education Policy 2020 through a transgender-inclusive lens, identifying critical gaps and proposing reforms. The findings underscore the urgent need for cohesive, accountable, and inclusive policy action at both state and national levels to ensure educational equity for transgender individuals.

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