The CM Yogi government in UP is preparing a major outreach program before the 2027 Assembly elections. The government plans to distribute free scooters to more than 50,000 meritorious girl students this year. Officials say the move will fulfill a key promise that the party made during the 2022 Assembly elections.
The state government has already fixed a budget of Rs 400 crore for the scheme. Leaders believe the program can help the ruling party strengthen its connection with women and first-time voters across the state.
Government Eyes Women and First-Time Voters
Women form a major voting bloc in UP. Out of nearly 13.40 crore voters in the state, around 6.09 crore are women. Through this scheme, the government wants to send a strong message about women’s empowerment and education.
Most girls who receive scooters may vote for the first time in the 2027 Assembly elections. Officials believe the scheme will help create a positive image among young voters and their families.
The government also wants to counter opposition attacks over unfulfilled promises. Opposition parties often raise questions about election commitments made by the BJP in 2022. By launching the scooter scheme before the polls, the government wants to show that it is delivering on its promises.
EV or Petrol Scooter? Debate Continues
Officials are still discussing whether the government should provide electric scooters or petrol-powered vehicles.
Many officials support electric scooters because they reduce fuel expenses for students. They believe EVs can help girls travel to colleges and universities at a lower cost. Officials also say electric scooters can reduce the financial burden on families.
However, some members within the government have raised concerns about charging facilities in rural areas. They believe village students may face difficulties if charging stations remain limited.
The government also plans to buy durable and low-maintenance scooters. Officials want students to use the vehicles for many years without major repair costs.
Eligibility Rules Under Discussion
Higher Education Minister Yogendra Upadhyay said the government is still finalising eligibility rules for the scheme.
Officials are discussing whether the benefit should go to toppers from UP Board, CBSE, and ICSE schools, or to girls who score more than 75% marks in graduation and post-graduation courses.
The government also plans to fix an income limit. Officials want students from poor and middle-class families to receive priority under the scheme.
Earlier Budget Lapsed
The BJP under CM Yogi had announced the “Rani Laxmibai Scooty Distribution Scheme” in its 2022 manifesto. The government had also allocated Rs 400 crore in the 2025-26 budget. However, officials could not finalise the rules, and the earlier budget lapsed.
The government has now made a fresh allocation of Rs 400 crore in the new financial year.
Companies Wait for Big Tender
Major two-wheeler companies like Hero MotoCorp, TVS Motor Company, Ola Electric, and Bajaj Auto are waiting for the tender process to begin. The large order may force companies to offer scooters at lower prices.
Along with scooters, the government also plans to speed up the “Vivekananda Student Empowerment Scheme.” Under this program, officials aim to distribute more than 25 lakh tablets and smartphones before the elections. The government says it has already distributed over 60 lakh digital devices so far.
