Lucknow: During the budget discussion in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized the significant participation of elected women in strengthening local governance. He announced a budget allocation of ₹38,501 crore for the Panchayati Raj Department, aimed at improving rural infrastructure, empowering local administration, and supporting development initiatives across the state.
BC Sakhi Scheme Facilitates ₹40,000 Crore in Banking Transactions
The CM highlighted the success of schemes like BC Sakhi and Lakhpati Didi, designed to promote financial independence among rural women. Since its launch during the COVID-19 pandemic, BC Sakhi has facilitated over ₹40,000 crore in banking transactions, earning ₹109 crore in commission for participating women.
Vidyut Sakhi and Self-Help Groups Strengthen Women Empowerment
Through the Vidyut Sakhi initiative, women have successfully executed ₹2,867 crore worth of electricity-related work. Additionally, more than 204 THR plants and 2,000 Inspiration Cafes are run by women’s self-help groups, generating significant income and employment opportunities for rural women.
Women Entrepreneur Credit Card and Dairy Production Expansion
The state government has allocated ₹200 crore for the Women Entrepreneur Credit Card Scheme, ensuring easier access to loans. Under the “Balini Milk Producer” model, five milk producer companies were initiated last year, with two more planned this year in Prayagraj and Lucknow, further boosting women-led businesses in the dairy sector.
Infrastructure and Connectivity as Key Focus Areas
CM Yogi Adityanath urged Assembly members to prioritize regional development projects to ensure timely allocation of funds. He emphasized connectivity, infrastructure, and capital expenditure as pillars for developed Uttar Pradesh, aligning with the state’s vision to contribute to a one-trillion-dollar economy.
Power Generation Capacity Reaches 18,136 MW
The CM praised Energy Minister A.K. Sharma for increasing the state’s electricity capacity from 7,159 MW to 18,136 MW, including a 1.29 GW contribution from solar energy. Rural areas now receive 18-20 hours of electricity daily, while district headquarters have 24-hour power supply.
Revenue Case Disposal and Governance Efficiency
Uttar Pradesh has successfully resolved 34 lakh of 44 lakh pending revenue cases, reflecting improved administrative efficiency. The CM also highlighted initiatives like Namami Gange, rural employment programs, guaranteed 125-day work schemes, and infrastructure development such as markets, mandis, and Amrit Sarovars.
CM Comments on Opposition and Assembly Proceedings
Responding to opposition remarks, the CM maintained a light-hearted tone, emphasizing the importance of experienced and young lawmakers working together while ensuring state development remains the priority.
