Nepal issues first transgender passport as government introduces third gender category

Nepal has issued its first transgender passport in a move which rights groups hailed as a breakthrough.

Rights activist Monica Shahi became the first recipient of a passport that read ’O’ for other instead of ‘male’ or ‘female’.

“I cannot describe my happiness today. My country has recognised and respected my identity,” the 37-year-old activist said.

“My struggle was not just for myself, but for future generations. Now everyone like me can get this service.”

Nepal introduced a third gender category in January 2013 for transgender people applying for citizenship documents.

Five months later the Supreme Court ordered the government to alter gender options in passports as well.