Uttar Pradesh ‘Zero Poverty’ Scheme Named After Dr. B.R. Ambedkar for Social Upliftment

Introduction

On the occasion of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s 135th birth anniversary, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced that the state’s ambitious ‘Zero Poverty’ mission will be named in honor of Bharat Ratna Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar. This initiative aims to uplift underprivileged individuals and families across the state, ensuring they rise above the poverty line.

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Objectives of the Scheme

The primary goal of the ‘Zero Poverty’ scheme is to eradicate extreme poverty in Uttar Pradesh. The mission focuses on:

• Identification of Underprivileged Families: Targeting the most marginalized communities, including Musahar, Vantangia, Tharu, Sahariya, Gond, and Kol.
• Saturation Approach: Ensuring that every eligible family receives comprehensive government benefits, such as land allotment, housing, sanitation facilities under Swachh Bharat, pensions, ration cards, and Ayushman Bharat health cards.
• Comprehensive Welfare: Providing a holistic support system to uplift families from poverty, encompassing housing, healthcare, nutrition, and financial assistance.

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Implementation Strategy

The scheme will be executed through a phased approach:

• Identification Process: Gram Panchayats will identify 20–25 families per village that are yet to benefit from government schemes.
• Coverage: Approximately 14 to 15 lakh families will be covered under this initiative, ensuring they receive all entitled benefits simultaneously.
• Integration with Central Schemes: The program will integrate with existing central government schemes, including:
  • Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY): For housing support.
  • Ayushman Bharat: Providing health insurance coverage.
  • Ujjwala Yojana: Ensuring access to clean cooking fuel.
  • Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN): Offering financial assistance to farmers.
  • Jan Dhan Yojana: Facilitating financial inclusion through bank accounts.
  • Swachh Bharat Mission: Promoting sanitation and hygiene.

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Political Context and Significance

During the announcement in Lucknow, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized the importance of Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy in promoting social justice and equality. He criticized opposition parties for allegedly undermining Ambedkar’s contributions and highlighted the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) commitment to preserving and promoting his ideals.

The naming of the scheme after Dr. Ambedkar underscores the government’s dedication to addressing the needs of marginalized communities and ensuring their inclusion in the state’s development agenda.

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Why This News is Important

Relevance for Competitive Exams

This development is significant for students preparing for government exams, as it touches upon:

• Government Schemes and Welfare Programs: Understanding the objectives, implementation strategies, and beneficiaries of major schemes like the ‘Zero Poverty’ initiative.
• Social Justice and Inclusion: Insights into policies aimed at uplifting marginalized communities and promoting social equity.
• Current Affairs: Awareness of recent political decisions and their implications on governance and public welfare.

Key Takeaways

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Historical Context

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Legacy

Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, a prominent social reformer and the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, dedicated his life to advocating for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly Dalits. His efforts led to significant legal and social reforms aimed at promoting equality and justice in Indian society.

Government Initiatives for Social Welfare

Over the years, the Indian government has launched various schemes to uplift underprivileged communities, such as:

• Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY): Providing affordable housing to the poor.
• Ayushman Bharat: Offering health insurance coverage to economically vulnerable sections.
• Ujjwala Yojana: Ensuring access to clean cooking fuel.
• Jan Dhan Yojana: Promoting financial inclusion.

These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to realizing Dr. Ambedkar’s vision of an inclusive and equitable society.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the ‘Zero Poverty’ scheme in Uttar Pradesh?
   • The ‘Zero Poverty’ scheme in Uttar Pradesh is an initiative launched by the state government to eradicate extreme poverty by providing comprehensive welfare benefits to marginalized families.
2. Who will benefit from the ‘Zero Poverty’ scheme?
   • The scheme targets underprivileged communities such as Musahar, Vantangia, Tharu, Sahariya, Gond, and Kol, aiming to lift them out of poverty.
3. Which central government schemes are integrated into the ‘Zero Poverty’ initiative?
   • The scheme integrates with central programs like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), Ayushman Bharat, Ujjwala Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi, and Jan Dhan Yojana.
4. What is the significance of naming the scheme after Dr. B.R. Ambedkar?
   • Naming the scheme after Dr. Ambedkar highlights the government’s commitment to social justice and the upliftment of marginalized communities, reflecting Ambedkar’s ideals of equality and empowerment.
5. How many families will be covered under the ‘Zero Poverty’ scheme?
   • Around 14 to 15 lakh families, primarily from marginalized communities, will be covered under the scheme.

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