Issued by: Government of Odisha

Letter No: 9417

Date of Issue: 16/08/2025

Description: The Government of Odisha has taken a progressive step toward inclusive governance with the issuance of Letter No. 9417, dated 16th August 2025, mandating the inclusion of Third Gender and other self-identified categories in application forms for recruitment to various posts under the State Government. This directive aligns with constitutional values of equality, dignity, and non-discrimination, and reflects the evolving understanding of gender identity in public policy. The circular instructs all recruiting agencies, departments, and commissions to revise their application formats to include options beyond the binary categories of Male and Female. This includes recognition of Third Gender, as well as any other self-declared gender identity, ensuring that individuals from marginalized gender groups are not excluded from employment opportunities due to outdated form structures. By implementing this change, the Odisha Government affirms its commitment to equity in public employment, in line with Supreme Court judgments and national policy frameworks that advocate for the rights of transgender and non-binary individuals. The letter also emphasizes the importance of sensitivity in recruitment processes, urging departments to train staff and adopt inclusive language and practices. This move is expected to have a transformative impact on the visibility, representation, and empowerment of gender-diverse communities in the public sector. It also sets a precedent for other states to follow, reinforcing Odisha’s leadership in inclusive policy reforms.