International Women's Day: UP government to felicitate acid attack survivors

With International Women's Day being celebrated across the world today, the acid attack survivors will be felicitated and provided financial assistance in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav will honour around 40 survivors with the Rani Laxmi Bai award at his official residence. Other women achievers and change makers will also be felicitated on the occasion.

Acid attack survivors from different parts of the state will be felicitated at the gathering. Also among the awardees is Usha Vishwakarma of the Red Brigade, who has been working for the welfare of women, imparting self defence training on a large scale.

Organisation Vatsalya, led by Dr Neelam Singh and a few gram pradhans will also be honoured on the occasion.

A special eating joint ''Cafe Sheroes'', to be run by acid attack survivors, will also be inaugurated in the city.

In addition, Asha Jyoti Centres in 11 districts and 181 helpline will also be launched today along with the rescue vans associated with the centres.

Among the highlights of the day is a cycle rally in which women from across the state will participate.

It will be flagged off by the Chief Minister from his residence and culminate at Lohia Park of Lucknow.