On Wednesday, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated that Uttar Pradesh exemplifies a strong commitment to women’s safety, dignity, and self-reliance through various initiatives. He conveyed his greetings to the people of Uttar Pradesh on Mahanavami and Vijayadashami, emphasizing the vital role of women in society. Drawing inspiration from the tradition of honoring Goddess Durga, the government aims to protect women’s rights and promote their empowerment. Despite being India’s most populous state, Uttar Pradesh currently has one of the lowest crime rates against women, while also leading the country in convictions and punishments related to such offenses.
Adityanath made these remarks after performing Kanya Pujan at Gorakhnath Temple during the ninth day of Navratri, where he serves as the head of Gorakshpeeth. He highlighted the cultural significance of the festival, noting that followers of Sanatan Dharma worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga during both Sharadiya and Vasantik Navratri with deep reverence. Navratri embodies faith in the divine feminine and signifies that women represent the primordial power of the universe. On Mahanavami, worshippers honor Goddess Siddhidatri, and conducting Kanya Pujan is seen as a sacred honor. The chief minister emphasized the importance of women in Sanatan faith.
He mentioned the ongoing fifth phase of Mission Shakti, which began on September 22, coinciding with the first day of Sharadiya Navratri, and is actively being executed at various levels to ensure women’s safety and self-reliance throughout the state. Adityanath noted the initiative’s significant success, with commendable efforts underway in every district. He remarked, ‘Indian society has always honored women, and today, the achievements of Indian women continue to impress the world.’ He added, ‘When daughters are safe and respected, society gains dignity and respect,’ asserting that Uttar Pradesh serves as a strong model in this aspect.
He outlined several government welfare programs for women and girls, such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Matru Vandana, Kanya Sumangala, and mass marriage initiatives. He also praised the implementation of the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, which increases women’s representation in the nation’s democratic institutions. He shared specifics, stating that 1 crore women in Uttar Pradesh receive an annual pension of Rs 12,000, while 26 lakh women benefit from the Kanya Sumangala Yojana, which offers financial assistance of Rs 25,000 from birth to graduation.