Most transgenders depend on traditional livelihoods: Study

Most transgender and Hijra people in the Jatrabari-Shyampur area of the capital continue to depend on traditional livelihoods, with 60 percent of respondents engaged in bandhai/halla, according to a social audit conducted by Sustho Jibon (Healthy Life).

The social welfare organisation, which advocates for the rights, health and social inclusion of the transgender and Hijra community, conducted the audit to assess their quality of life, rights and access to government services. 

The audit, conducted between July and September 2026, collected information from 40 community members through a survey, four focus group discussions (FGDs), key informant interviews (KIIs) and life-based case studies.

It examined various aspects of their lives, including healthcare, education, social security, employment, skill development, identity cards and access to government services.

The findings showed that 60 percent of respondents are associated with the traditional bandhai/halla profession, while 25 percent earn their livelihoods through jobs and 15 percent through small businesses.

The findings indicate that the community remains heavily dependent on traditional livelihoods, although some members have moved into formal employment and small businesses.