Are OBC Benefits Still Available After Migrating?
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Synopsis
In a significant announcement, Union Minister Virendra Kumar clarified that OBC individuals can retain their benefits even after migrating. This ensures that they continue to enjoy the concessions from their home state, promoting inclusivity and support for marginalized communities. Learn more about the implications and available support for OBC migrants.
Key Takeaways
- OBC benefits are retained even after migrating to a different State/UT.
- The OBC Certificate is issued by the State/U.T. Administration.
- Garima Grehs provide essential support for transgender individuals.
- Over Rs 8.25 crore has been allocated for Garima Grehs.
- Life skill training is offered to residents of Garima Grehs.
New Delhi, Aug 19 (NationPress) An Other Backward Class (OBC) individual who migrates from their State/UT of origin to a different State/UT, where their caste is not listed as OBC, is still qualified for the advantages and concessions available to OBCs from their original State and the Union government, stated Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar on Tuesday.
In response to a question posed in Lok Sabha, the Minister clarified that the designated authority of a State/U.T. Administration is responsible for issuing the OBC Certificate to migrants who present a valid certificate from their father.
However, there is an exception in situations where the authority believes a thorough inquiry is necessary through the State of origin prior to granting the Certificate, he added.
Additionally, in response to another query, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment B.L. Verma informed that there are currently 18 'Garima Grehs' established nationwide, providing shelter to 429 transgender individuals, with facilities including food, healthcare, yoga, meditation, and recreational activities.
These Garima Grehs, supported by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE), are functioning in 15 states, with approval granted for the establishment of three new Grehs during the financial year 2025-26.
Proposals for creating Garima Grehs from NGOs/Civil Society Organizations have been sent to 14 States/UTs, and their recommendations are awaited.
Residents of Garima Greh not only receive a secure living environment with essential amenities but are also offered life skills training, enabling them to reintegrate into society with a dignified livelihood.
Moreover, Garima Grehs work to protect the rights of transgender individuals and shield them from violence, as stated by the MoS.
To date, Rs 8.25 crore has been allocated and utilized by the Garima Grehs under the Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise (SMILE) Scheme, he mentioned.
Each Garima Greh is equipped with a Counsellor to provide mental health assistance and guidance to the beneficiaries, he concluded.
Point of View
It is imperative that we uphold the rights and benefits of marginalized communities, including OBC individuals. This initiative not only fosters inclusivity but also empowers those who have faced historical disadvantages. The government's commitment to ensuring access to benefits, even after migration, is a positive step towards social equality.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Can OBC individuals retain benefits after migrating to another state?
Yes, OBC individuals can retain the benefits and concessions from their state of origin even when they migrate to a different State/UT.
What are Garima Grehs?
Garima Grehs are shelters established across the country providing support and resources to transgender individuals, including food, healthcare, and life skills training.
How many Garima Grehs are currently operational?
Currently, there are 18 Garima Grehs operational in 15 states across the country.
What financial support has been provided to Garima Grehs?
A total of Rs 8.25 crore has been released for Garima Grehs under the SMILE Scheme to support marginalized individuals.
Who issues the OBC Certificate for migrants?
The designated authority of the State/U.T. Administration issues the OBC Certificate to migrants upon the presentation of a valid certificate from their father.
