Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed a gathering at the Nari Shakti Vandan programme held at the Babu Upraudh Inter College Grounds in Mirzapur where he highlighted the significance of women’s empowerment, underscoring the state’s dedication to the development of the region. He also unveiled a major project at Maa Vindhyavasini Dham.
“The sacred place has seen an increase in devotees during Navratri over recent years, recognising the need for further infrastructure and facilities to accommodate the growing numbers,” the chief minister said and announced construction of a grand corridor at Maa Vindhyavasini Dham.
He said this ambitious project aimed not only at enhancing facilities for devotees but also generating employment opportunities for the region’s youth, marking a significant step towards holistic development.
During the event, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated and laid the foundation stones of 660 projects costing Rs 202 crore. These projects are expected to uplift the district and contribute to the state’s overall progress.
The chief minister highlighted the unwavering commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure the respect and empowerment of women. He stressed that women made up half of the population and could not be underestimated, as no society could be truly strong and influential while neglecting this significant demographics.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath noted the pioneering role played by the prime minister, who launched the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao programme in 2014. This initiative marked a turning point in recognising women’s integral role in the nation’s political agenda, he added.
The chief minister emphasised that the efforts of the state government for women’s empowerment have garnered both national and global recognition. Initiatives such as Jan Dhan account, Ujjwala Yojana, Saubhagya Yojana, health insurance cover, housing scheme, and ownership (Swamitva Yojana) have made a significant impact, with the enactment of the Nari Shakti Vandan Act further underscoring the commitment to gender equality, he pointed out.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath underlined that these measures have set an example for the world, guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision. He also praised the symbolic representation of the three goddesses, Maa Vindhyavasini, Maa Ashtabhuji and Maa Kali, as a demonstration of feminine strength and the essence of life.
The development of the grand corridor at Maa Vindhyavasini’s abode has led to an increase in devotees visiting the site throughout the year, further demonstrating the importance of women’s empowerment in the region.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath concluded by reiterating the state government’s unwavering commitment to the development of Mirzapur. He urged local public representatives to identify suitable land for the proposed university and submit the necessary proposals, emphasising that when the government is committed to its efforts, tangible results follow.
During the event, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath distributed certificates, laptops, and toolkits to women beneficiaries of various schemes and honoured 11 women with the Vindhya Shakti Samman for their outstanding contributions in various fields.
Before the event, the chief minister had a darshan of Maa Vindhyavasini Devi and worshiped the goddess in the temple. He also inspected the ongoing construction of the Vindhya Corridor and issued necessary directions to officials. He also spent time with children on the temple premises, sharing chocolates and moments of joy with them.
The event was attended by several prominent political leaders, including Union Minister of State Anupriya Patel, UP Minister Ashish Patel, and various other dignitaries from the region.