In a bold move to eradicate poverty across Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s government is enlisting the support of universities and colleges to give momentum to its flagship Zero Poverty Abhiyan. Announced recently, this initiative aims to leverage the academic prowess and outreach of higher education institutions to identify and uplift the most vulnerable sections of society.
The Zero Poverty Abhiyan, a cornerstone of the state’s welfare agenda, seeks to ensure no family remains below the poverty line by 2025. Under this plan, universities will conduct detailed surveys in their respective districts, mapping out impoverished households and recommending tailored interventions. From skill development programs to direct financial aid, educational institutions will play a pivotal role in implementation.
Education Minister Dr. Yogendra Upadhyay highlighted the strategic importance of this collaboration. ‘Our universities are not just centers of learning; they are engines of social change,’ he stated during the launch event in Lucknow. Over 50 universities and hundreds of colleges have pledged their resources, including student volunteers and faculty experts, to drive the campaign forward.
This partnership comes at a critical time, with Uttar Pradesh reporting significant progress in poverty alleviation but still grappling with rural distress and urban slums. By integrating academic research with ground-level action, the government hopes to create sustainable models for poverty reduction. Early pilots in districts like Varanasi and Lucknow have shown promising results, with over 10,000 families identified for immediate assistance.
Critics, however, caution against overburdening educational institutions amid ongoing academic pressures. Yet, proponents argue that this real-world engagement will enrich curricula and foster a sense of civic responsibility among the youth. As the abhiyan rolls out statewide, all eyes are on how this innovative alliance between academia and administration will reshape Uttar Pradesh’s fight against poverty.