Lucknow: A crucial meeting chaired by Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel was held at Raj Bhavan, Lucknow, to review the functioning of Rajkiya Balika Grih, Sindhikhera Para, Lucknow and Shishu Balika Grih, Lucknow, both operating under the State’s Department of Women Welfare. Senior officials from the Lucknow district administration and concerned departments attended the meeting.
Governor Patel directed officials to ensure special focus on the education, health, and overall development of girls residing in these homes. She instructed that bank accounts for all girls be opened promptly and that adequate arrangements for their education be made without delay.
Emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability, the Governor asked officials to conduct regular surprise inspections to assess the functioning of these institutions. She also directed Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University Vice Chancellor Prof. J.P. Pandey to provide digital facilities for online education, ensuring that girls have access to modern learning tools.
Highlighting health as a top priority, Governor Patel ordered that regular health camps be organized for all girls, including hemoglobin tests and the preparation of individual health cards. These camps will be conducted with the support of King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow.
She further emphasized that all government welfare schemes must reach the girls on a priority basis, and that the Balika Grihs should be linked with universities to empower girls through education, health, and skill development, thereby promoting self-reliance.
Among those present at the meeting were Dr. Sudhir M. Bobde, Special Officer to the Governor (Additional Chief Secretary rank); Smt. Leena Johri, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Women and Child Development; senior officials from the Women Welfare Department; the Chief Development Officer, Lucknow; representatives of the district administration; and officers and staff working at the Balika Grihs. The meeting underscored the Governor’s continued commitment to ensuring that every girl in state-run homes receives not only protection and care but also the opportunities necessary for her holistic growth and empowerment.
