On February 16, 2026, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government unveiled a comprehensive Transgender Protection Policy aimed at safeguarding and empowering transgender individuals, known as Khawaja Sira. This initiative marks a significant shift towards addressing the long-standing marginalization faced by this community. The policy establishes the province's first dedicated welfare endowment fund to support economic empowerment, skills training, and rehabilitation programs. According to the Social Welfare Department, the new framework will create a province-wide transgender welfare registry to facilitate access to social protection schemes, healthcare benefits, and employment opportunities. The policy also mandates the establishment of safe homes and rehabilitation centers for those facing violence or displacement, with officials stating, "We hope this strategy will deliver lasting improvements in education, employment, healthcare, and social acceptance" (ProPakistani). Approximately 170 transgender individuals are officially registered in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, although estimates suggest the actual number is much higher.