CM Rekha Gupta Links Cultural Tradition with Girls’ Mobility Push, Distributes Cycles to 1,100 Students

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta marked Durga Ashtami by performing kanya pujan at a Sarvodaya Vidyalaya in Shalimar Bagh and distributing bicycles to 1,100 schoolgirls, reinforcing the government’s focus on girls’ education and mobility. The event, held on March 26, 2026, highlighted a broader approach where social traditions are aligned with tangible welfare measures, particularly aimed at reducing barriers to schooling and encouraging continued education among young girls.

During the ceremony, CM Gupta followed traditional rituals, applying tilak, offering respect, and seeking blessings from the girls, creating an atmosphere of devotion and community participation. Addressing the gathering, she emphasized that honoring girls is not just a ritual but a reflection of their importance in society and the nation’s future.

The distribution of bicycles formed the centerpiece of the initiative, aimed at making daily commutes to school easier and safer for students. The Chief Minister noted that improved access to transportation can play a key role in reducing dropout rates and ensuring that girls continue their education without interruption. She described the initiative as a step toward empowerment, where convenience translates into opportunity.

CM Gupta also spoke about the symbolic and emotional significance of daughters, referring to them as the foundation of values and the promise of a brighter future. She encouraged students to pursue their ambitions with confidence, drawing parallels between their potential and the strength embodied in Maa Durga and Maa Saraswati.

The initiative aligns with the Delhi government’s broader policy direction outlined in its recent budget, which includes the ‘Vidyavahini’ scheme. Under this program, approximately 1.3 lakh Class 9 pass girls in government schools are set to receive bicycles, with a budget allocation of around ₹90 crore. The scheme is designed to address practical challenges faced by students, particularly in commuting, while also easing the burden on families.

The event concluded with the Chief Minister extending wishes for prosperity and well-being, reiterating that empowering girls through education and support systems remains central to Delhi’s development vision.