Lucknow, Mar 15: Ahead of the Hindu New Year (Vikram Samvat 2083), Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath praised the role of women in overcoming the ‘challenges of the pre-2017 period’ and transforming the state from turmoil to a celebration of women’s power.
In an open letter addressed to the people of the state, Adityanath said, “Over the past year, we have all witnessed Uttar Pradesh’s continuous progress. Every sector of the state has contributed a significant amount to the journey of ‘sankalp to siddhi’. The contribution of women in overcoming the darkness of the pre-2017 period and transforming the state from turmoil to celebration of women’s power has been crucial.”
He emphasised that Chaitra Navratri should not only be viewed as a festival, but also as a grand celebration of women’s empowerment. “The society and state become empowered when our daughters are capable,” Adityanath said.
He highlighted the inspiring story of Soni Kumari from Chandauli, who became self-reliant through flower farming, and noted that many women in her group are now earning a livelihood.
The state government has implemented various state and central schemes to ensure that women are respected, that daughters can realise their dreams, and that ‘maatrishakti’ receives the recognition it deserves, the chief minister noted.
Adityanath mentioned initiatives like the ‘Mission Shakti’ campaign, the Rani Laxmibai Scooty Yojana, and the Mahila Udyami Credit Card Yojana, stating that half of the 20,000 start-ups in the state are led by women, exemplifying the positive changes occurring.
Adityanath extended his Navratri greetings to the people, wishing them, “May Navratri, the holy festival of worshipping Adishakti, which begins on Chaitra Shukla Pratipada, fill all our lives with devotion, strength, and new consciousness.”
