About Moitrisanjog Society | Empowering Communities in Bengal

Organization History

In a society still bound by patriarchal norms, individuals who do not conform to traditional gender roles-such as transgender persons, gender-diverse people, and marginalized women—continue to endure discrimination, exclusion, and violence. For many within marginalized communities, growing up with dignity, equal rights, and opportunities remains an immense struggle. Family and community rejection often lead to deep social isolation and economic vulnerability. With limited livelihood options, some are forced into begging or sex work, while others fall into despair, with suicide becoming a tragic escape. These challenges are especially severe in rural areas, where stigma is harsher and resources are scarce.

In 2011, a small group of transgender and gender-diverse individuals in Cooch Behar, North Bengal, began gathering informally to share their experiences of hardship and resilience. Through these meetings, they found solidarity, strength, and a collective voice against the injustices they faced. Over time, their circle grew and evolved into a community-based organization (CBO).

This CBO came to be known as Moitrisanjog, meaning “a network to connect friends.” Later that year, it was formally registered as Moitrisanjog Society under the Societies Act. Since its inception, the society has been committed to challenging violence and discrimination faced by marginalized communities.

Our primary mission is to create a supportive network where every individual from marginalized communities can access their rights, entitlements, and opportunities to live with dignity and respect. Moitrisanjog works to build financial security through alternative livelihood programs such as craftsmanship initiatives, while also extending vital services like healthcare, counseling, and legal aid. We also emphasize equal access to education and employment. Beyond direct support, we organize awareness meetings and programs to challenge prejudice, promote inclusion, and foster a safer, more just society.

Empowering Through Livelihoods

Economic independence is an important part of dignity and inclusion. Our Alternative Livelihood Program creates opportunities for women, transgender and gender-diverse communities, and other marginalized groups to develop practical skills and explore sustainable sources of income.

Our initiatives include Sitalpati weaving and product-making, beautician skill training, catering services, and eco-friendly paper plate production.

Since 2015, 280+ people have been trained in Sitalpati weaving and product-making, while 450+ people have been involved in marketing, promotion, and sales activities. Since 2021, 85+ people have received beautician skill training, while community members have also gained opportunities through catering and eco-friendly production.

Our Vision

Moitrisanjog Society stands at the forefront of intersectional work, recognizing the layered struggles faced by marginalized communities-where discrimination is not only about gender or sexuality but also deeply intertwined with caste, class, and ethnicity. As one of the first organizations in West Bengal to embrace an intersectional approach, Moitrisanjog is committed to amplifying the voices of those most excluded and reaching individuals who are too often left unheard.

In a context where feminist movements in West Bengal have largely centered cisgender women-frequently overlooking or inadequately supporting trans and gender-diverse persons-Moitrisanjog strives to bridge this gap. The organization is dedicated to fostering inclusive dialogues on trans feminism, ensuring that the rights, experiences, and leadership of trans and non-binary individuals are not only acknowledged but actively safeguarded.

At its heart, Moitrisanjog is more than an organization-it is a safe haven, a movement, and a chosen family that stands in solidarity with those pushed to the margins. It envisions a world where every individual from marginalized communities can live with dignity, free from oppression, and fully embraced in all their complexity and humanity.

Our Mission

The mission of Moitrisanjog Society is to reach out to transgender and gender-diverse individuals in Cooch Behar, mobilizing them to stand against socio-domestic violence. At the same time, the organization seeks to build solidarity networks within society to foster awareness and sensitivity toward the challenges faced by marginalized communities. The mission further emphasizes advocating for essential social protections, including equitable access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.

Moitrisanjog Society Cooch Behar

Organization History

Empowering Through Livelihoods

Our Vision

Our Mission

Creating Change Through Community Action