Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath of Uttar Pradesh underlined the state government's unwavering dedication to safeguarding the welfare of women, cautioning that anyone who attempts to jeopardize the "security of the state's daughters will suffer a fate akin to that of Ravan and Kans."
Speaking at the Nari Shakti Vandan Sammelan in Bansdeeh, Ballia district, Adityanath highlighted the significance of the 'Mukhyamantri Kanya Sumangala Yojana' as an explicit testament to the government's commitment to discharging its obligations toward the state's daughters by allocating Rs 25,000 to them commencing from the upcoming session. This allocation will be made to the parents of daughters across six phases, as per a statement quoting the chief minister's remarks.
Additionally, the government is providing Rs 51,000 via the 'Mukhyamantri Samuhik Vivah Yojana' to eligible families for conducting their daughters' weddings. The chief minister affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring the safety of daughters, emphasizing that those who infringe upon the security of daughters will confront consequences reminiscent of the fates of mythological characters, Ravan and Kans.
During the event, Adityanath inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for 35 development projects valued at Rs 129 crore in Ballia. He also presented certificates to women beneficiaries of various development initiatives.
Furthermore, the chief minister announced that the government would provide Ujjwala scheme beneficiaries with a complimentary gas cylinder on Diwali, aiming to alleviate women in the state from the adverse effects of smoke generated by cooking stoves. This initiative is projected to benefit approximately 1.75 crore families within the state.
Adityanath disclosed that after delimitation in 2026, 33 percent reservation would be extended to women in the Lok Sabha and state assembly elections, expanding the representation of women to one-third in these legislative bodies. The chief minister expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the women's reservation Bill, which proposes to allocate one-third of seats in the Lower House and state assemblies to women.
Highlighting the government's primary objective of ensuring the safety, dignity, and self-sufficiency of women, Adityanath indicated that the government is taking urgent steps to recruit 20 percent female personnel within the state police force. He emphasized that the government intends to expand the recruitment of women teachers in schools operated by the Basic Education Council.
Asserting the government's commitment to fostering women's economic empowerment while preserving their safety and honor, Adityanath recognized the essential role women play within the population.
Adityanath also mentioned the ongoing development initiatives in the district, pointing out that Ballia is poised to become an important medium for water transportation in Uttar Pradesh due to its proximity to both the Ganga and Saryu rivers.