Lucknow: Marking the 85th birth anniversary of former MLA late D.P. Bora, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday inaugurated 15 Seva Shakti Centres (sewing training centres) and launched the Matri Shakti Vandan programme under Mission Shakti 5.0. On the occasion, he also virtually unveiled the statue of late D.P. Bora and felicitated women achievers from diverse fields for their exemplary contributions to society.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the day holds special significance for Uttar Pradesh as it coincides with Sharad Purnima and the birth anniversaries of Sage Valmiki, the great devotee of Lord Krishna Meera Bai, and late D.P. Bora. “On this auspicious occasion, I bow to Sage Valmiki and Meera Bai and offer humble tributes to late D.P. Bora on behalf of the state government and the people of Uttar Pradesh,” CM Yogi said.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment, CM Yogi said the newly inaugurated Seva Shakti Centres, being operated under the aegis of the D.P. Bora Memorial Committee, would serve as symbols of women’s self-reliance and help them achieve economic independence through sewing and skill training.
During the event, the Chief Minister felicitated women who have made remarkable contributions in education, literature, music, health, and social service. Among them were Padma Shri awardee and Hindi litterateur Prof. Vidya Bindu Singh, classical musician Sunita Jhingran, Sheela Mishra, Shalu Singh, and Dr. Chandrawati. Praising their achievements, CM Yogi said their dedication and excellence continue to inspire society, and honouring them is a matter of great pride.
Recalling the life and legacy of late D.P. Bora, CM Yogi described him as a courageous and visionary leader who raised the voice of the deprived, Dalit, and oppressed classes. “As the president of the Lucknow University Students’ Union and later as an MLA, D.P. Bora fearlessly protected the interests of the poor and the business community at a time when Lucknow was battling gang wars and lawlessness. He not only fought for justice but also gave a new direction to society,” the Chief Minister said.
He added that the unveiling of Bora’s statue and the inauguration of the Seva Shakti Centres are fitting tributes to his lifelong dedication to social service and empowerment.
During the event, renowned poet Sarvesh Asthana evoked social sensitivity through his poetry, focusing on women’s dignity, safety, self-reliance, and awareness against evils like dowry. CM Yogi appreciated his writing, saying that a poet’s pen challenges social evils and guides society toward a new path. Through his verses, Asthana highlighted the character of Lord Ram and social values, which are inspirational for society.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described Sage Valmiki’s Ramayana as a timeless text, unique in its social, religious, and geographical dimensions. He said it is not merely a religious scripture but a symbol of social values and environmental conservation. “The character of Lord Ram represents the embodiment of righteousness, and Sage Valmiki has given society an ideal example that remains relevant even today,” CM Yogi said.
Referring to the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and the construction of the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the Chief Minister said the project is not just about building a temple but a step towards establishing Ram Rajya. He added that work is also underway to rejuvenate the flora and environment associated with the Ramayana era, reflecting efforts to preserve India’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Remembering Meera Bai’s deep devotion and her message of social harmony, CM Yogi said that guided by her Guru, Sant Ravidas Ji, she spread the spirit of faith, equality, and unity through her devotion to Lord Krishna.
Speaking about the Mission Shakti campaign, CM Yogi said it is among the state government’s most ambitious initiatives, dedicated to empowering women in education, health, and economic independence. “Under Mission Shakti, we are not only ensuring women’s financial self-reliance but also their safety and dignity,” he said. The Chief Minister noted that more than a hundred Seva Shakti Centres, operated by the D.P. Bora Memorial Committee, are playing a significant role in advancing this mission.
