In A First, Transwoman Inducted In Development Policy Committee In Tamil Nadu

Vijayabaskar, Ismail, Amalorpavanthan, and a third-term legislator Raja are among the other part-time members

Transwoman Narthaki Nataraj Conferred with Padma Shri award in 2019. (Image: Twitter)

Chennai: Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin has revamped the state development policy committee and has appointed a 10-member team which is chaired by the Chief Minister. In a view of striking a gender balance, the CM has appointed a transgender — Narthaki Nataraj — and industrialist Mallika Srinivasan as part-time members of the State Development Policy Council.

Nataraj was conferred with Padma Shri in 2019 for her exceptional contribution to the field of art as a professional Bharatanatyam dancer. She was the first transwoman to have been honoured with India’s fourth-highest civilian awards. The Tamil Nadu government has adjudged Nataraj with the prestigious Kalaimamani award in 2007.

Identifying herself as a third gender from childhood, had to face a stiff challenge from the conservative society as she was ridiculed by everyone around. She was thrown out of the house by her parents and made it big. Her grit to be a good dancer brought a remarkable change in her life. Her life and journey have been included as a lesson in the 11th standard Tamil textbooks.

Induction of Nataraj, Mallika, CMD, TAFE Limited has broad-based the representation of the council. According to the Times of India, the DMK Spokesperson TKS Elangovan said, “As promised in our manifesto, we wanted to broad base such councils that can suggest areas of focus to channelise the economic statute of the state in the growth path. Another council that will advise the state on finance is likely to be announced soon.”

Vijayabaskar, Ismail, Amalorpavanthan, and a third-term legislator Raja are among the other part-time members.