Lucknow: In a major step towards women’s empowerment, the Uttar Pradesh government has disbursed ₹1,500 crore in subsidies to 1.86 crore women under the Prime Minister Ujjwala Yojana. The initiative is part of the state’s broader mission to strengthen women socially, economically, and personally. Programs like Kanya Sumangala, Gharouni, collective marriage schemes, and self-help groups have provided women with opportunities for financial independence and social upliftment.
Under the Kanya Sumangala scheme, over 26 lakh girls have received financial support, enhancing access to education, nutrition, and secure futures. The Gharouni program has granted home ownership certificates to 1.1 crore women, empowering rural women with property rights and dignity. Additionally, 10 lakh self-help groups, involving over 1 crore women, have been set up to promote local employment and financial autonomy.
The collective marriage scheme has facilitated weddings for more than 4.67 lakh women, easing financial burdens on families, while the Jal Jeevan Mission has provided piped water to 2.41 crore households, reducing hardships for rural women. Measures like 1% stamp duty exemption on property purchases and 20% reservation in government jobs have further strengthened women’s participation in the economy and governance.
Women beneficiaries expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for the initiative, calling the free LPG cylinders a “priceless gift” this Diwali. Beneficiaries highlighted how the scheme has transformed their daily lives, offering convenience, safety, and new opportunities for prosperity.
Through sustained policy measures, the UP government continues to set a benchmark in women’s empowerment, combining economic support, social security, and recognition of women’s contributions to society.
