Yogi Adityanath Announces Major Support Packages for Women and Farmers on Diwali
On Diwali, CM Yogi Adityanath reveals significant support for farmers and women, including gas subsidies and economic packages in Uttar Pradesh.
Lucknow, November 3 (Daily Kiran) : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath marked Diwali by offering a significant subsidy on cooking gas cylinder refills to over 1.89 crore families in the state. During a ceremony at Lok Bhawan, he announced that the government plans to introduce a substantial package aimed at compensating farmers for crop losses and promoting economic independence among women.
As part of the Prime Minister Ujjwala Yojana, CM Adityanath transferred ₹1,500 crore directly into the bank accounts of eligible beneficiaries at the push of a button. He explained that the cost of a full gas cylinder is ₹983.45, with the central government providing a subsidy of ₹335.40. This means beneficiaries previously had to pay ₹648.55 out of pocket, but the state government is now covering this amount, allowing families to save money for Diwali celebrations.
The Chief Minister highlighted the severe impact of climate change, including heavy rains and hailstorms, which have damaged farmers’ crops. While immediate compensation is being provided, the government is preparing a special economic package for the state’s three crore farming families. Additionally, to empower women, a major initiative is in the works that will help them achieve self-sufficiency and provide better educational opportunities for their children.
Adityanath criticized the previous Congress government, stating that before 2014, the country faced significant challenges, including rampant corruption and obstacles in obtaining gas connections. He noted that since the launch of the Ujjwala scheme by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2016, over 46 crore Indians have risen above the poverty line, according to a recent World Bank report.
He also took aim at the previous Samajwadi Party government, asserting that before 2017, celebrations were often marred by unrest and insecurity. He emphasized that today, women can work fearlessly, even during night shifts, due to improved safety measures.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of all citizens. As part of this effort, ‘Annapurna Bhojanalayas’ will be established at market committees and labor hubs, providing dignified meals to farmers and laborers. He also mentioned the establishment of world-class ‘Atal Residential Schools’ for workers’ children, offering free quality education.
To improve the economic conditions of the most vulnerable, the government has increased the honorariums for Anganwadi workers, cooks, village watchmen, and PRD personnel. Efforts to upgrade ration shops into model outlets under the ‘Annapurna Bhavan’ initiative are underway, along with successful programs like ‘Lakhpati Didi’ and ‘BC Sakhi’ aimed at empowering women. A short film highlighting the Ujjwala scheme and ration distribution was screened during the event.
Secretary of the Food and Logistics Department, Anil Kumar, welcomed guests with a bouquet, while Cabinet Minister Manoj Kumar Pandey presented a memento to the Chief Minister. Beneficiaries including Shanti, Swati Sharma, Tabassum Zaidi, Asha Gupta, Kiran, Saba, Babli Rawat, Kusma, Mansi, and Rabia Bano received demo checks.
