The Uttar Pradesh government is establishing 'Sakhi Niwas' (women's shelters) in nine major districts to enhance women's safety, dignity, and empowerment under the Mission Shakti scheme. These shelters, each with a capacity of 50, will provide refuge for women facing social, legal, or family-related difficulties.
The initiative aims to offer a safe and supportive environment for women deprived of protection. The shelters will be established in Lucknow, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Gorakhpur, Agra, Bareilly, Meerut, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddh Nagar.
These districts were selected based on population, urbanisation, and the number of women-related cases. Funded through a 60:40 partnership between the central and state governments, the 'Sakhi Niwas' centers will offer free temporary housing, food, clothing, and medical care.
In addition to basic necessities, residents will receive counseling, legal aid, and skill development training in areas such as sewing, computers, beauty parlor services, and handicrafts to facilitate their reintegration into society and empower them economically.
This initiative builds upon existing Mission Shakti programs like One Stop Centres, Women's Helpline, and Police Help Desks, further strengthening the support system for women in the state.