Patna: Patna Women’s College organised a sensitisation workshop on transgender awareness on March 14, 2026, aiming to promote understanding of gender diversity and encourage respect and inclusion in society. The programme was organised by the Department of Sociology and held at the MTH auditorium, with around 160 students participating in the session.
The workshop featured resource persons Reshma Prasad and Prashant Kumar, who introduced key ideas related to sex, gender and gender identity. They explained that sex refers to biological characteristics, while gender is shaped by social roles, expectations and cultural understanding. The speakers also described transgender as an umbrella term for people whose gender identity is different from the sex assigned to them at birth.
During the session, the speakers highlighted the Indian context, explaining that transgender communities have existed in Indian society and culture for centuries. However, many individuals still face discrimination, exclusion and social stigma in everyday life. The discussion emphasised the need for awareness and acceptance in order to create a more inclusive society.
The workshop also addressed important legal developments related to transgender rights in India. Participants learned about the landmark Supreme Court judgement in NALSA v. Union of India (2014), which recognised transgender people as a third gender, and the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, which aims to protect transgender individuals from discrimination and ensure equal opportunities.
The session remained interactive throughout, with students asking questions and sharing their views on gender equality and social inclusion. Organisers said the workshop helped build empathy and understanding among students, encouraging them to support equality and dignity for all members of society.
