Mission Shakti 5.0: Empowering Women in Uttar Pradesh

On September 18, 2025, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the fifth phase of the state's flagship women's empowerment initiative, Mission Shakti. This phase aims to extend the program's reach to every village and town, building upon the success of the previous four phases. The mission is envisioned not merely as a government scheme but as a social movement to ensure that every woman in the state feels safe and respected.

Yogi Adityanath has launched the fifth phase of Mission Shakti (Image via Business Standard) | OpIndia

Background and Evolution of Mission Shakti

Mission Shakti was first launched in 2020 with the objective of enhancing women's safety, dignity, and self-reliance across Uttar Pradesh. Over the years, the initiative has implemented various programs, including self-defense training for women, awareness campaigns, and the establishment of helplines to assist women in distress. The success of these phases has paved the way for the launch of Mission Shakti 5.0, which aims to further strengthen these efforts and ensure that the benefits of the program reach every corner of the state.

Key Features of Mission Shakti 5.0

Enhanced Policing and Safety Measures

The fifth phase of Mission Shakti focuses on intensifying police deployment, conducting awareness drives, and organizing community engagement programs to sensitize the public about women's rights and safety. Special attention will be given to religious events and public gatherings to ensure women's safety. Additionally, the government plans to collaborate with various departments to implement schemes that promote women's economic independence and social empowerment.

Expansion of Pink Booths

Initially established in Lucknow, Pink Booths will now be set up in all 17 municipal corporation cities. These booths will serve as dedicated spaces for women to report grievances and seek assistance. The expansion aims to make these facilities more accessible to women across the state.

Community Engagement and Awareness

Mission Shakti 5.0 will include awareness drives, workshops, and screenings of educational films in schools and colleges to sensitize the public about women's rights and safety. These programs aim to create a more informed and supportive community for women.

Strengthening Legal Support

The campaign emphasizes the importance of legal aid for women, ensuring that they have access to justice and support in times of need. This includes providing information about legal rights and avenues for seeking help.

Previous Phases and Achievements

Since its inception, Mission Shakti has made significant strides in promoting women's safety and empowerment in Uttar Pradesh. The initiative has sensitized over 8.7 crore people and has been instrumental in implementing various programs aimed at preventing child marriage, eradicating child labor, and providing self-defense training to women. The success of these phases has laid a strong foundation for the launch of Mission Shakti 5.0.

Looking Ahead

With the launch of Mission Shakti 5.0, the Yogi Adityanath government reaffirms its commitment to creating a society where women are not only safe but also empowered to lead and thrive. Through sustained efforts and community involvement, the mission seeks to transform the social fabric of Uttar Pradesh, making it a model for women's empowerment in the country.

The MGMM Outlook

The launch of Mission Shakti 5.0 in Uttar Pradesh marks a significant step toward creating a safer and more empowering environment for women across the state. Unlike conventional government schemes, this initiative positions itself as a social movement, aiming to reach every village and town. By intensifying police deployment, expanding Pink Booths to 17 municipal cities, and engaging communities through awareness drives and educational programs, the mission seeks to make women's safety and rights a visible and actionable priority. The focus on economic independence and legal support further strengthens the program, ensuring women are not only protected but also empowered to make independent decisions.

Building on the success of the previous phases, which sensitized over 8.7 crore people and implemented programs to prevent child marriage, eradicate child labor, and provide self-defense training, Mission Shakti 5.0 reflects a holistic approach to women’s empowerment. Its multi-dimensional strategy—combining safety measures, legal assistance, and community engagement—demonstrates a commitment to systemic change. By embedding women’s rights into the social fabric of Uttar Pradesh, the initiative sets an example of how governance, when paired with public participation, can drive meaningful societal transformation.

(Sources: OpIndia, Times of India, Hindustan Times)