Uttar Pradesh's Zero Poverty Program Creates Jobs for Thousands in Lucknow
The Uttar Pradesh government is making significant strides with its Zero Poverty Programme in Lucknow. This ambitious initiative aims to ensure no family remains below the poverty line as defined by multi-dimensional poverty standards. A key focus is securing employment for at least one member from each identified family.
Skill Training and Job Placements Show Progress
Officials have identified 12.36 lakh families under this program. The planning department has already provided skill training to over 4,500 individuals, helping them secure jobs. Additionally, the department is assisting others in obtaining funds for self-employment ventures.
Principal Secretary of Planning, Alok Kumar, shared detailed insights. He explained that among the identified families, persons aged 14-35 years were listed for assistance. These individuals will receive skill development and vocational training to enhance their employability.
"We identified 29,000 persons who had previously received training under the skill development mission," Kumar stated. "Out of these, we have successfully helped 4,500 secure jobs. Another 12,000 persons trained under ITIs have seen 57 get jobs with our intervention."
Government Focuses on Self-Reliance for Families
The government announced a clear objective to make families self-reliant. At least one person from every family identified under the Zero Poverty Programme will be connected with employment opportunities. To achieve this, the planning department identified 23,83,713 persons in the 14-35 age group.
From this pool, around 1.35 lakh persons have undergone verification. Among them, 21,000 have been found eligible for skill development programs. A government spokesperson emphasized the importance of moving beyond traditional support measures.
"Linking people to government schemes and providing rations or subsidies is crucial, but making families self-reliant is equally important," the spokesperson said.
Collaborations and Targeted Support for Vulnerable Groups
The government has signed Memorandums of Understanding with two universities. These partnerships will provide skilling and vocational training to program participants. Special attention will be given to 1.72 lakh extremely vulnerable families within the program.
For these families, the government will help one member secure employment. This targeted approach ensures the most needy receive focused assistance.
Additional Initiatives Boost Economic Empowerment
Beyond job placements, the program includes other supportive measures. Approximately 5,000 persons have received help accessing credit facilities under the CM Yuva Udyami Vikas Abhiyan. This initiative supports young entrepreneurs in starting their own businesses.
Furthermore, more than 5,500 women have been linked with self-help groups. These groups provide financial support, training, and community networking opportunities. Such measures collectively work towards lifting families out of poverty and fostering long-term economic stability.
The Zero Poverty Programme represents a comprehensive effort by the Uttar Pradesh government. By combining skill training, job placements, financial assistance, and community support, officials hope to create sustainable pathways out of poverty for thousands of families in Lucknow and beyond.
