HYDRAA’s ‘Eagle Team’ Gives Transgender Persons Dignity, Recognition Through Employment

A job opportunity at HYDRAA has brought a profound transformation in the lives of several transgender persons, offering them not just employment but also a renewed sense of dignity, identity and self-confidence .

For many members of the transgender community, who have long faced social stigma, discrimination and financial hardship, the opportunity to work with HYDRAA has become a turning point. Some among them once depended on begging for survival, but today they proudly serve in the organisation’s specially formed “Eagle Team.”

At present, HYDRAA has employed 16 transgender persons , including 11 trans women and five trans men , and entrusted them with responsibilities linked to the protection of public assets such as lakes, parks, drains and government lands.

Officials say the team has been playing an active role in safeguarding public properties from encroachments. The transgender employees recently participated in protecting 862 acres of government land at Ilapur in Ameenpur mandal of Sangareddy district . They were also involved in conservation efforts at Edulakunta in Madhapur .

According to HYDRAA officials, members of the Eagle Team have shown exceptional ability in interacting with local residents, particularly women, and in easing tensions during field operations. Their patience, communication skills and emotional understanding have helped improve coordination between officials and the public during sensitive situations.

For the employees themselves, the job represents far more than a regular source of income.

Speaking about her experience, Gayatri , a member of the team, said respect mattered more than money in their lives. She said wearing the HYDRAA uniform and going to work filled them with pride and proved that transgender persons could excel when given an opportunity.

Another team member, Tanshi Rai , said there was a time when people mocked and rejected them whenever they asked for work. But now, she said, society speaks to them with respect when they see them in uniform performing official duties.

The employees also expressed happiness at being part of efforts aimed at protecting nature and public property, adding that they are ready to take up even the most challenging assignments to prove they are equally capable contributors to society.

The initiative is being seen as a meaningful example of social inclusion through dignified employment , while also challenging long-held prejudices against the transgender community.