Uttar Pradesh Government Approves Major Initiative for Social Justice Monuments
Significant Initiative for Monument Preservation
Ahead of Ambedkar Jayanti, the cabinet led by Yogi Adityanath has approved a significant initiative aimed at the preservation and enhancement of monuments recognized as symbols of social justice across the state. In a pivotal decision, the government has sanctioned plans to upgrade statues of B.R. Ambedkar with decorative canopies, boundary walls, and extensive beautification measures. This initiative seeks to enhance the aesthetic and cultural significance of these monuments while ensuring their protection.
Comprehensive Development Plan
Under a broad development scheme, the Uttar Pradesh government will renovate ten monument sites in each assembly constituency throughout the state. A total budget of ₹403 crores has been allocated for this purpose. This initiative will not be limited to Ambedkar alone; it will also encompass statues and monuments of prominent social reformers such as Ravidas, Kabir, Jyotirao Phule, and Valmiki, recognizing their contributions to social equality and reform.
Focus on Beautification and Financial Support
The first phase will concentrate on the extensive beautification of statues located in public spaces, ensuring improved infrastructure, maintenance, and visual appeal. Additionally, the Uttar Pradesh cabinet has approved a significant increase in the monthly honorarium for education friends and part-time instructors. According to the state's Minister of Basic Education (Independent Charge), Sandeep Singh, the honorarium for education friends will rise from ₹10,000 to ₹18,000 per month, while part-time instructors will see their pay increase from ₹9,000 to ₹17,000 per month.
Implementation Timeline and Financial Impact
The revised payments will take effect from April 1, 2026, with beneficiaries expected to receive the increased amounts starting in May. This decision is anticipated to directly benefit approximately 143,000 education friends and 24,717 part-time instructors across the state. The increase will impose an additional financial burden of over ₹1,475 crores annually on the government.