Several provisions, such as house ownership and awareness drives to improve communication, will be kick-started under phase two of UP’s Mission Shakti scheme. Further, in a bid to empower women, Mission Shakti has been extended till next year. The recent announcements suggest that the government is focusing on enabling the independence of women.
Upcoming provisions for women of rural UP
In a landmark decision under phase two of ‘Mission Shakti’, Chief Minister has ordered that Gharauni (document certifying the ownership of residential accommodations in rural areas) will be registered under the name of the woman of the family. The government spokesperson stated having ownership of the house will empower woman, give them a sense of security and financial stability.
Further, a Mahila Thana will be set up in the rural regions for quick redressal of complaints lodged by women and self-help groups will be given the charge of maintaining community toilets located in rural areas, at the earliest.
Nodal Officer for Mission Shakti, Manoj Rai, stated that a special social and behavioural change communication module has been prepared and public awareness programmes will be conducted through this module in March, read reports. This module has been prepared with the belief that effective communication will help in overcoming the discrimination and gender inequality faced by women and girls.
These discussions will also focus on setting up a woman safety committee under the control of the community. Further, women cyber-crime cell, cyberbullying and cyberstalking, facility for first aid at women help desks and release of old and handicapped inmates from jail will also be talked about.
Progress of Mission Shakti
In view of the International Women’s Day on March 8, programmes under the second phase of Mission Shakti will begin on February 26. Initially, Mission Shakti was planned to be functional between October 2020 and April 2021 however, it has now been extended till next year. Since these programmes will continue even after April 2021, the District Magistrates have been asked to prepare a road map for the upcoming phase.
