Lucknow, Apr 29 (Reporter) The Uttar Pradesh government has announced the construction of shelter homes for orphaned children in 10 districts across the state under 'Mukhyamantri Bal Ashray Yojana' in a step toward child welfare, official sources said here on Tuesday. Sources said that the government has proposed a budget of Rs 100 crore for the project. "Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's ambitious 'Mukhyamantri Bal Ashray Yojana', orphaned, abandoned, surrendered and children living in adverse conditions are provided with proper care, upbringing and a safe shelter.," they said Sources said that under the scheme, the Department of Women Welfare will operate these homes for state-run care and protection of destitute children and those in conflict with the law, ensuring their safety and holistic development. "In the first phase, homes will be constructed and operated in 10 districts, including Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Lucknow, Ayodhya, Amethi, Mathura, Firozabad, Basti, Jhansi and Kanpur Dehat, with a capacity of 100 children each in different categories," they said. Sources said that these will include one Government Children's Home (Girls), one Government Home (Boys), seven Government Observation Homes (for juveniles) and one 'Place of Safety' home with Juvenile Justice Board provisions. Sources said, "The Yogi Government aims to integrate orphaned and vulnerable children into the mainstream, helping them lead a life of dignity. The proposed shelter homes will provide a secure environment, nutritious food, quality education and skill development opportunities." Sources said that the objective is to ensure that every child benefits from their rights and is empowered to live a respectable life in society. "This scheme marks a significant step toward shaping a brighter future for the state's children. Along with shelter, the proposed homes will also offer counselling and recreational activities to ensure the mental and physical well-being of the children," they said. Sources said that the Yogi government has already undertaken several child-centric initiatives, including Operation Kayakalp, reforms in the Mid-Day Meal scheme and broad educational improvements. "The launch of the Mukhyamantri Bal Ashray Yojana further reinforces its commitment to the protection and all-round development of children," they said. Sources said that the proposed scheme will not only offer shelter to children in need but will also guide them toward a better and more secure future. "UP's initiative could serve as a model for other states across the country," they said...////...