India, Sept. 6 -- Karnataka will undertake two major surveys beginning September 15, aiming to create a clearer picture of gender minorities and former Devadasi women across the state -- an exercise officials described as the most comprehensive of its kind.

The Department of Women and Child Development said both surveys, to be conducted by the Karnataka State Women's Development Corporation, are expected to conclude within 45 working days. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah formally launched the initiative on Thursday.

"The initiative aims to gather precise information on socio-economic conditions to facilitate social, economic, and educational rehabilitation measures," Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar said.

The baseline s...