Kolkata, 14 August (H.S.): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday congratulated all beneficiaries of the state’s flagship Kanyashree scheme on its 12th anniversary, describing it as a global model for girls’ empowerment.

In a message posted on social media, Banerjee said, “Today is Kanyashree Day. Our pride, the Kanyashree scheme, completes 12 years today. Over 9.3 million girls have been empowered under this programme, with financial support exceeding ₹17,500 crore directly transferred into their hands.”

Highlighting its international recognition, Banerjee noted that among 552 government projects from 62 countries, Kanyashree was ranked first and received the prestigious United Nations Public Service Award. “There are few government initiatives anywhere in the world that have empowered daughters so quickly and so effectively,” she said.

The Chief Minister reiterated her belief that no society can progress unless its daughters are safe and empowered. “We have never limited ourselves to talking about women’s empowerment—we have implemented it on the ground,” she asserted.

Calling on Kanyashree beneficiaries to strive for excellence, Banerjee urged them to make Bengal and India proud on the global stage. “You will build a world-class Bengal, you will wear the crown of honor,” she said, ending her message with the slogan: “Jai Hind, Jai Bangla, Jai Kanyashree!”

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh