Ahead of Raksha Bandhan, UP CM gives four major gifts to 3.54 lakh Rasoiyas

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath presented four significant gifts to 3.54 lakh Rasoiyas, or cooks, in the state ahead of Raksha Bandhan, with approximately 93% of them being women. The Chief Minister made the announcement at Indira Gandhi Pratishthan on Sunday, August 23, 2026.

The Rasoiyas will now receive an honorarium of ₹3,000, up from the previous ₹2,000. In case of an incident or accident, they and their families will receive financial assistance of ₹2 lakh from the State Bank of India, along with free cashless health coverage of up to ₹5 lakh annually. The budget for uniforms has also been doubled, increasing from ₹500 to ₹1,000.

Adityanath explained that the honorarium for Rasoiyas was only ₹1,000 nine years ago and was often paid inconsistently. The introduction of Jan Dhan accounts for 55 crore people under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi enabled direct transfer of money into their accounts, eliminating the risk of "loot" by political parties.

The Basic Education Council, under Adityanath's leadership, has ensured that all necessary resources, including banking facilities, are in place for the Rasoiyas. The state government has also ensured that these individuals can receive medical treatment at any government or empaneled hospital if they or their family members fall ill. An annual insurance cover of ₹5 lakh is provided for this purpose.

Adityanath emphasized that a kitchen is not just about feeding children but also about promoting their health and well-being. The government has ensured that if a Rasoiya or a member of their family becomes ill, they can receive treatment at any government hospital or any hospital approved by the state.

The Chief Minister highlighted the success of the NIPUN Bharat mission, which now extends up to Class 5. Every child is now provided with two uniforms, a school bag, books, shoes, socks, and a sweater. The government is working to ensure a dignified life for the Rasoiyas, ASHA workers, village chowkidars, Home Guards, and PRD personnel, including increasing the honorarium for Shikshamitras and instructors.