10L girls trained in self-defunder Mission Shakti: Govt

Lucknow: The state govt said on Tuesday that more than one million girls have received training in judo, karate and self-defence techniques under the Mission Shakti campaign.

“These efforts have not only enhanced their physical capabilities but have also instilled confidence and a stronger sense of security,” a state govt spokesperson said. He said that the govt-led awareness campaigns on women’s safety have helped disseminate information on helpline services, cyber safety, women’s rights and legal protections to the grassroots level. This significantly increased awareness among women and girls about their rights.

The spokesperson said that the state govt has taken significant steps to provide leadership opportunities to girls. “Through the ‘Officer for a Day’ programme, more than 89,000 girls have been given firsthand experience of administrative responsibilities,” he said. By performing roles of officials at the school, block, tehsil and district levels, students gained insights into governance and administration while developing leadership skills. This initiative not only inspires daughters to dream big but also gives them the confidence to turn those dreams into reality.

Activities such as Meena Manch, Meena Diwas, public dialogues, rallies and street plays organised under Mission Shakti have helped carry the message of women’s empowerment to the last mile. Mission Shakti has also made notable contributions toward the economic and digital empowerment of women and girls.

“Thousands of girls have been connected with digital and financial literacy programmes, equipping them with knowledge of modern technology and financial management. Bank visits and financial awareness programmes have helped students develop an understanding of savings, banking and financial decision-making,” he said.

At the same time, efforts to connect women with self-employment, skill development and entrepreneurship through various govt schemes have strengthened their path toward self-reliance.

The spokesperson said that the most significant impact of Mission Shakti is visible in the transformation of social attitudes. A positive environment has developed across the state regarding girls’ education, safety and rights. Perspectives within families and communities toward daughters have changed, while women’s participation in social and economic activities has increased.

The state govt’s zero-tolerance policy on women’s safety, coupled with initiatives such as Mission Shakti, has fostered a greater sense of trust and security among women.