Lucknow | On the auspicious occasion of Navratri, Uttar Pradesh witnessed a historic celebration under Mission Shakti 5.0, as more than five lakh girls were worshipped with dignity on Ashtami across the state. Guided by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision of women’s safety, respect, and self-reliance, the initiative turned the traditional ritual of Kanya Pujan into a symbol of women’s empowerment and social transformation.
As part of the ceremonies, over 1,500 girls were enrolled in the Chief Minister Kanya Sumangala Yojana, which provides financial support of up to Rs 25,000 from birth to higher education.
From Tradition to Social Revolution
Officials said that Kanya Pujan under Mission Shakti 5.0 is no longer limited to fulfilling religious customs but has evolved into a movement to celebrate the birth of daughters as a blessing rather than a burden. Launched on September 20, Mission Shakti 5.0 has been driving awareness and action for women’s security, dignity, and empowerment across Uttar Pradesh.
In various districts, programs were held in the presence of Women Welfare Minister Baby Rani Maurya, State Minister Pratibha Shukla, district magistrates, public representatives, and senior officials. These events sent out a powerful social message, affirming daughters as the foundation of families and society.
Empowering Girls Through Schemes
Special counters were set up at program venues where families could fill out application forms for the Kanya Sumangala Yojana. Girls and their families were also informed about government schemes related to education, health, nutrition, and self-reliance. Cultural performances, folk songs, and interactive sessions highlighted the importance of educating and empowering girls while raising awareness against social evils like child marriage and gender discrimination.
Voices of Commitment
Leena Johri, Principal Secretary of the Women and Child Development Department, said: “Kanya Pujan is not just a ritual, but a message to society that daughters are our strength and the torchbearers of the future. Mission Shakti is a pledge to make every girl safe and empowered.”
Women Welfare Director Sandeep Kaur added:
“This celebration will strengthen positive attitudes towards girls. Every daughter carries with her the promise of a brighter future for her family and society.”
A New Era of Nari Shakti in Uttar Pradesh
By blending cultural tradition with social reform, the Yogi government has positioned Mission Shakti as a people’s movement. Through Kanya Pujan, schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Kanya Sumangala, and Mission Shakti, Uttar Pradesh is carving a new chapter in women’s empowerment—where daughters are celebrated as blessings and nurtured as leaders of tomorrow.
