Lucknow, Dec 17: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday launched ‘Mission Shakti’, a campaign to empower women and ensure their safety and dignity in the state.
The campaign, which coincides with the 16-day activism against gender-based violence, aims to create awareness and sensitise people about women’s rights and issues.
Speaking at the launch event, the chief minister said that his government is committed to provide a safe and secure environment for women and girls in the state.
He said that the campaign will focus on various aspects of women’s empowerment, such as education, health, employment, entrepreneurship, social security and legal aid.
He also announced several initiatives under the campaign, such as setting up of women help desks in all police stations, launching of a toll-free helpline number for women, organising self-defence training camps for girls, and providing financial assistance to women entrepreneurs.
He said that the campaign will also involve the participation of various stakeholders, such as civil society organisations, media, celebrities, religious leaders and youth.
He urged the people to join hands with the government and support the campaign to make Uttar Pradesh a model state for women’s empowerment.
He also paid tribute to the women freedom fighters and social reformers who have contributed to the nation’s progress and development.
The launch event was attended by several dignitaries, including Governor Anandiben Patel, Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, and Cabinet Ministers Swati Singh and Rita Bahuguna Joshi.