Lucknow, Jan 24 (Representative) The Kanya Janmotsav initiative, launched as part of the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ scheme in Uttar Pradesh, has emerged as a national example as the Women and Child Development Department has celebrated the birth of 35,489 girls by organising 3,822 programmes across the state, official sources said here on Friday. Sources said that the remarkable achievement has earned praise from the central government, which recognised it as a model for other states to emulate. During a program held at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, marking the 10th anniversary of the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ scheme, the central government lauded UP’s efforts as a benchmark of excellence and urged other states to replicate this initiative. The primary objective of the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ campaign in UP is to transform societal attitudes and mindsets in order to end gender bias and promote equality. Far from being a one-time event, this initiative represents an ongoing process of social change aimed at fostering collective responsibility and cultural transformation. By celebrating the birth of girls, the program actively challenges gender bias and promotes inclusiveness and equality. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, this initiative has successfully dispelled misconceptions about girls and inspired a positive shift in societal perspectives.
It has created an environment that not only celebrates the birth of girls but also advances gender equality in all aspects of life. CM Yogi has ensured active involvement of families and communities through the Kanya Janmotsav initiative. The programme encouraged social participation to integrate the value of the girl child into societal norms and everyday behaviors, ensuring that gender equality becomes a deeply rooted and lasting cultural practice. Fathers, brothers, community leaders, and public representatives were actively engaged to challenge patriarchal mindsets and promote collective accountability for gender equality. Besides, efforts from the Women and Child Development Department, health, education, Panchayati Raj and local administration were effectively coordinated to maximise the programme’s impact and reach. Regular activities are conducted at the district, block, and village levels on the first and third Monday of every month to consistently promote the message of gender equality. This repetition helps normalise the concept and reinforces the value of the girl child. Health workers, teachers, government officials, and community members play an active role in ensuring consistent and impactful messaging. As part of the programme, the birth of newborn girls is celebrated with congratulatory cards, baby kits, woollen clothes, sweets and birthday cakes.
The participation of public representatives and community dignitaries adds to the programme’s significance. Additionally, initiatives like the Mukhyamantri Kanya Sumangala Yojana, UP Mukhyamantri Bal Sewa Yojana and regular vaccination and nutrition programmes have been integrated into this effort, further strengthening its impact. Deputy Director of the Women Welfare Department Ashutosh Kumar Singh said that 3,822 programmes have been organised across the state so far, celebrating the birth of 35,489 girls. On February 6, 2023, 95 programmes were held simultaneously, during which the birth of 1,707 girls was celebrated. He said that the structured approach and measurable impact of this initiative have made it a source of inspiration for other states and regions. To ensure its continuity, the department has institutionalised the program, making it a regular celebration in all districts of UP. The Yogi government is fostering respect and awareness for girls in society through various innovative activities. Among them is the symbolic initiative of appointing meritorious girls as administrative officers (DM, CDO) for a day, aiming to inspire them to pursue careers in administrative services. This programme is conducted at district, block and village levels. The Kanya Janmotsav initiative has significantly enhanced societal respect for girls, spreading a positive message not only across UP but throughout the country. This unique effort by the Yogi government is proving to be a milestone in driving social change and serves as an inspiration for other states.