The flag hoisting ceremony in Ayodhya today is more than a religious tradition; it represents a continuing journey of social and economic progress. Alongside cultural significance, the ceremony highlights increasing participation of women's self-help groups and local youth in developmental activities. From crowd management to supporting visitors and participating in official arrangements, their involvement is creating employment opportunities and strengthening community engagement.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the saffron flag atop the Shri Ram Temple during the ceremony, with several distinguished guests in attendance. Women's self-help groups are contributing to welcoming arrangements and showcasing locally made products. These include handicrafts, handlooms, prasad, garlands, bags, towels, and statues, creating a platform for women entrepreneurs to expand their income and market presence.
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One such inspiring example is Radha Lakshmi, a member of the Divaharin Mai Women’s Self-Help Group from Milkipur. By availing benefits under government schemes and working as a BC Sakhi, she now earns ₹40,000–₹50,000 per month. Like her, many women in Ayodhya are becoming financially independent and contributing to the district’s development.
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The HDFC Bank People’s Action for National Integration (PANI) initiative under the Holistic Rural Development Programme (HRDP) is also supporting rural transformation. Focused on women-led enterprise development, the project has helped families in the Amaniganj block establish successful businesses and has boosted women’s confidence in decision-making within households and the community.
A strong example comes from the Hazipur Singhpur Gram Panchayat in the Masaudha block, where Kranti Didi, a member of the Awadhpuri Women’s Self-Help Group, received a ₹50,000 loan under CCL. This funding helped her strengthen her livelihood and stands as a model of how targeted financial support can uplift women and foster self-employment.
Women SHGs also played a crucial role in the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign during Independence Day. A total of 2.5 lakh national flags were prepared by 1,080 women from 300 SHGs in Ayodhya, and each woman received ₹20 per flag. This initiative generated income, encouraged patriotism, and demonstrated women’s leadership in large-scale civic efforts.
Ayodhya’s development and the rise of women self-help groups are moving forward together. As the city expands and modernizes, it is creating new opportunities for women, who, in turn, are contributing significantly to its progress through enterprise, participation, and leadership.
This remarkable synergy reflects Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision, ensuring that women receive recognition, dignity, and opportunities in a transforming Uttar Pradesh.