Lucknow/UNI/IBNS: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday launched the fourth phase of Mission Shakti, focused on promoting women's safety, respect, and self-reliance, by flagging off a Women Empowerment Rally that traversed several locations in the capital before concluding at the 1090 Intersection.

The rally aims to enhance public awareness regarding various government schemes for the welfare of women and daughters.

Addressing the event, the CM highlighted the inception program held in the state in 2020, aimed at curbing crimes against women and ensuring their safety, respect, and self-reliance. "Initially centered around three core issues, this program evolved into what is now recognised as Mission Shakti. Over time, Mission Shakti gained prominence in the state, emerging as a leader in reducing crimes against women and getting criminals punished in the country," he said.

He said that the result of the success of Mission Shakti is that the central government has also named the campaign for women's safety as Mission Shakti, underscoring the power of initiatives aimed at widespread societal awareness across the country. "The fourth phase of Mission Shakti embodies this objective, aiming to replicate its success and impact on a broader scale," he said.

Yogi expressed concern that, despite the government's implementation of various programs, the target audience often needs to be made aware of them so that they can avail of their benefits.

He said, "Awareness rallies have been initiated across all 75 state districts to address this issue. Additionally, morning rallies will be conducted in schools and colleges across each district. Individuals and entities demonstrating exemplary efforts in enhancing women's safety, respect, and self-reliance within their districts will be recognised and honored."

The CM said that from October 15, the women-centric schemes of the central and state governments will receive focused promotion across cities, villages, and municipal bodies.

He said, "This campaign aims to educate and inform individuals about government initiatives concerning the protection and well-being of women and daughters. The state government's efforts have changed the general perception of women's capabilities. Previously, people talked about less educated women's potential to contribute meaningfully. However, the government changed the perception."

Yogi said, "Today, empowered as BC Sakhi (Banking Correspondence Sakhi), these women are bridging the banking gap in villages and providing crucial assistance during times of need. The government provided these dedicated individuals with six months of training and financial support. As a result, these women now earn between a minimum of Rs 25 thousand and a maximum of Rs 1.25 to Rs 1.5 lakh. This transformative effort deserves amplification and expansion."

He said, "In 2019, the government initiated the Balini Milk Producer project, supporting a small group of five to seven women who had completed third- to fifth-grade education. Over the past three years, this venture has become a flourishing business, achieving an annual turnover of Rs 150 crore and a net profit of Rs 15 to 16 crore. The project has positively impacted the lives of 40,000 women."

The CM emphasised that with willpower and backing from the government and administration, women have the potential to achieve remarkable feats.

He emphasised UP's status as the most populous state in India and stressed the need for special efforts directed towards the welfare of its vast female population. "The rally launch in the fourth phase of Mission Shakti underlines this commitment," he said.

Yogi said that from October 15 on, extensive programs will be run across the state to raise awareness among women and address their concerns. "Along with this, stringent measures will be taken against those who endanger the safety and well-being of women and daughters. The government has given individuals time to rectify their behaviours, and now strict orders have been issued to ensure swift action, including submitting reports at the police station level," he said.

He congratulated the people of the state on the launch of Mission Shakti's fourth phase.

Before launching the fourth phase of Mission Shakti, the CM extended his best wishes to the state's people for the entire campaign through social media platform X (Yogi Adityanath).

In his post, he announced the launch of the fourth phase of Mission Shakti, emphasising its dedication to women's respect, safety, and self-reliance. He extended his heartfelt wishes for the success of this entire campaign.