Lucknow: The state capital hosted India’s first-ever transgender literary and cultural programme on Friday. The event served as a platform for members of the transgender community to discuss the role of literature, art, and music in bringing them into the mainstream of society. Social welfare minister Asim Arun, who graced the event, reiterated the state government’s commitment to providing equal opportunities for all. He elaborated on how his department organised the festival to ensure “the transgender community receives a respectful place in society and can play their role in their own and the country’s development by coming into the mainstream.” He further highlighted govt’s initiatives to empower the community by providing them with job opportunities and guiding them towards new ventures.