Akhilesh promises ‘Stree Samman-Samriddhi Yojana’ for women, BJP calls move poll-driven

Akhilesh Yadav on Monday promised to introduce a women-focused welfare scheme titled ‘Stree Samman-Samriddhi Yojana’ in Uttar Pradesh if his party comes to power, positioning it as a key measure for women’s empowerment ahead of the Assembly elections.

The Samajwadi Party (SP) chief said the proposed scheme would aim to ensure economic independence, dignity, and equal opportunities for women, whom he described as “aadhi abaadi” (half the population). In a post on social media, Yadav reiterated his party’s commitment to women’s safety, rights and empowerment, stating that respect for women strengthens families, society and the nation.

Integrating the proposal into the party’s broader PDA (Backward classes, Dalits and minorities) framework, he said the letter “A” would represent “aadhi abaadi”, bringing women explicitly into the coalition. He added that every woman and girl would be given equal social and economic opportunities to become self-reliant under the scheme.

Yadav also pledged to restore the Samajwadi Pension Scheme , which he said would enhance financial security for women and contribute to overall development in the state. The announcement is being viewed as part of the party’s outreach to women voters, a crucial constituency in Uttar Pradesh.

Reacting to the proposal, leaders of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) dismissed it as a poll-driven promise, alleging that such announcements were being made without a clear roadmap for implementation. The BJP maintained that its government has already delivered on welfare and development through what it calls a “double-engine” model, and expressed confidence of returning to power.

With political activity gaining momentum, welfare promises particularly those targeting women are expected to shape the campaign narrative in the run-up to the elections.

The next Assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh are scheduled for early 2027 , when all 403 seats will go to polls, setting the stage for a key contest between the SP and the BJP.