Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasised the critical role of girls’ education and maternal health during the Navratri festival. On Thursday, he articulated that a healthy and empowered female population is vital for the nation’s future. In a message shared on X, Adityanath referred to Maa Skandamata, who is revered on the fifth day of Navratri, as a representation of maternal affection and nourishment. He underscored that the worship of this deity serves as a reminder that the nation’s present stability and future prosperity hinge on the health, education, and empowerment of women.

Critique of Previous Governments

In his address, Adityanath took the opportunity to criticise prior administrations in Uttar Pradesh, alleging that from before 2017, political motivations and family-centric governance overshadowed the welfare of women and girls. He claimed that this neglect, coupled with corruption, severely impacted maternal healthcare services. The Chief Minister pointed out that inadequately equipped hospitals, a shortage of essential medicines, and insufficient facilities for institutional deliveries have led to elevated rates of maternal and infant mortality.

Adityanath asserted that his government has made significant strides over the past nine and a half years to enhance healthcare, education, and welfare initiatives for women and girls. He mentioned the establishment of a comprehensive support system that addresses the needs of girls from birth through education and into safe motherhood. This initiative aims to create an environment where women can thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.

He highlighted the improvements in school infrastructure as a key achievement, noting that the coverage of basic facilities in primary schools has risen from 36 per cent to over 96 per cent under the Operation Kayakalp initiative. Furthermore, he claimed that the school dropout rate has dramatically decreased from 20 per cent to below 3 per cent, indicating a positive trend in educational retention.

Initiatives for Women’s Empowerment

Adityanath also pointed to the establishment of Atal Residential Schools, which are designed to provide residential education for children from workers’ families and underprivileged backgrounds. This initiative aims to broaden access to quality education and ensure that children, particularly girls, have the opportunity to pursue their studies without interruption. He mentioned that the extension of educational facilities up to Class 12 in Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas has further supported girls’ educational journeys.

The Chief Minister emphasised the long-term advantages of investing in girls’ education, stating that such investment not only boosts their confidence but also plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Uttar Pradesh. By focusing on education and empowerment, the government aims to create a generation of women who are equipped to contribute positively to society and the economy.

In conclusion, Adityanath’s remarks during Navratri serve as a reaffirmation of his administration’s commitment to advancing the status of women and girls in Uttar Pradesh. By addressing critical issues such as education and maternal health, the government aims to foster a more equitable and prosperous future for all citizens.

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