Gorakhpur | Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that Uttar Pradesh has emerged as the state with the lowest rate of crimes against women while also holding the top position in securing convictions in such cases.
Speaking to the media after performing Kanya Pujan at Gorakhnath Temple on the occasion of Mahanavami during the Sharadiya Navratri, the Chief Minister extended greetings to people for Mahanavami and Vijayadashami. He said, Without Nari Shakti (women power), the very existence of creation is unimaginable. Our government has been consistently working towards ensuring the safety, dignity, and self-reliance of women through various schemes, including Mission Shakti.”
Women’s safety and empowerment a priority
Adityanath underlined that Sanatan traditions accord the highest respect to women. Reflecting this belief, his government has implemented multiple initiatives aimed at women’s welfare. “From September 22, the first day of Navratri, the fifth phase of *Mission Shakti* was launched, extending safety and self-reliance awareness programs down to the panchayat level. The campaign is gaining momentum across districts,” he said.
The Chief Minister added that India has always honored women, and in every era, their contribution has inspired society. “Today, too, women in every field are proving their strength and leaving the world amazed,” he remarked.
Schemes for women and girls
Highlighting flagship welfare measures, Adityanath said that schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Matru Vandana, Kanya Sumangala, and Samuhik Vivah Yojana are ensuring safety, education, and empowerment for daughters.
Nearly 1 crore women in UP are receiving an annual pension of Rs 12,000.
Around 26 lakh girls are benefiting from the Kanya Sumangala Yojana, which provides up to Rs 25,000 from birth to graduation.
The government has enhanced financial assistance under the Samuhik Vivah Yojana to Rs 1 lakh per couple, easing the burden of marriages for poor families.
‘A safe daughter means a safe society’
The CM stressed, “Where daughters are safe and respected, society too is considered safe and respected. Uttar Pradesh today is an example of that.” He reiterated that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, women-centric initiatives are being implemented nationwide, including the recently passed Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam*, ensuring women’s representation in top legislative bodies.
Vijayadashami: Symbol of victory of good over evil
Adityanath also extended greetings for Vijayadashami, describing it as a symbol of Sanatan victory. “This festival represents the triumph of dharma, justice, and righteousness over adharma, injustice, and oppression. On this day, effigies of Ravana are burnt across the state, symbolizing the end of evil, while programs marking Lord Ram’s coronation are organized,” he said. With women’s safety and empowerment at the forefront of governance, the Chief Minister said the state is committed to building a secure and prosperous society.
