In News:

India’s first healthcare facility entirely led and managed by transgender individuals — formerly known as Mitr Clinic — has reopened in Hyderabad under a new name, Sabrang Clinic, after a brief closure in January 2025 due to a USAID funding freeze.

Launched in 2021 in Narayanguda, Mitr Clinic was a pioneering initiative providing trans-affirmative healthcare services, and was notable for being completely staffed by members of the transgender community. Over 3,000 patients were served during its initial phase.

Revival and Funding

• Funding Setback: Operations were suspended in January 2025 following the withdrawal of USAID support.
• Renewed Support: The clinic resumed services in May 2025 after securing three-year funding from Tata Trusts, at a rate of ?1,500 per person per year (compared to ?1,900 under USAID).
• Supporting Partners: Core clinical staff is now funded by Tata Trusts, while senior positions are jointly supported by YRG Care, an NGO associated with the earlier model.

Current Setup and Services

Services Offered:

• General health services
• Counselling and clinical consultations for:
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
  • Gender Affirmation Surgeries
  • Breast Augmentation
  • Mental Health
• HIV/STI testing and treatment
• Psychological support

Clinic Team:

• 1 Medical Officer
• 1 Nurse
• 1 Counsellor
• 2 Outreach Workers

Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

During the shutdown, the team continued online consultations and medicine delivery, sustaining community outreach until new funding was secured.

Legacy and Policy Impact

• The Telangana Government, inspired by Mitr Clinic’s model, launched Maitri Clinics in all 33 districts, adopting a trans-inclusive healthcare approach.
• While collaboration with State agencies was considered, the Sabrang team opted for independent operation to ensure quicker service resumption and retain community trust.

Expanded Vision: Why ‘Sabrang’?

• The new name, Sabrang (meaning "all colours"), reflects a broader, inclusive healthcare mission.
• It now aims to serve not only transgender persons but also queer, gender-diverse, and other marginalized groups who face similar healthcare barriers.