New Delhi, July 31 (IANS) Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday launched the Vidya Vahini scheme, distributing bicycles to over 3,000 girl students of Class IX from different government schools, an official said.

At a programme held at the Sports Complex in East Vinod Nagar, the Chief Minister said that under the Vidya Vahini scheme, nearly 1.40 lakh girl students studying in Delhi government schools will receive free bicycles in a phased manner.

She also interacted with the students, asking them about their studies, future aspirations and dreams, said an official statement.

“The programme is a celebration of Nari Shakti and of the collective resolve to empower every daughter through education,” she said.

She encouraged them to pursue education with confidence and dedication and strive to achieve their goals in life.

The students also presented her handmade paintings, which she appreciated, praising their creativity and talent while wishing them a bright future.

Union Minister of State and Delhi BJP president Harsh Malhotra, Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood, Patparganj MLA Ravinder Singh Negi, Director of Education and Sports Nitin Jindal, teachers and parents were present on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Gupta said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has placed women-led development at the heart of the vision for a Viksit Bharat and has described education as the most effective means of women’s empowerment.

The Vidya Vahini scheme, she said, has been launched in line with that vision.

The Chief Minister said that the Vidya Vahini scheme will ensure safe and convenient travel to school, save students’ time, improve regular attendance, reduce the likelihood of dropouts and ease the daily concerns of parents.

Chief Minister Gupta said that a bicycle is much more than a mode of transport; it represents freedom, self-confidence, dignity, self-reliance and opportunity.

She added that the bicycle is not merely a gift but the beginning of a new journey. She urged the students to study with dedication and discipline, use their bicycles responsibly, follow traffic rules and always prioritise road safety.

Education Minister Ashish Sood said the Vidya Vahini scheme is significant because Delhi is led by a woman Chief Minister who is ensuring that the education, safety and empowerment of girls remain among the government’s highest priorities.

–IANS

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