Up live news 24 uttar pradesh
UP Financial Literacy Campaign Launched from Avadh Girls’ Degree College
The Uttar Pradesh Financial Literacy Awareness Campaign, organised jointly by Franklin Templeton India and FinX–CIEL, was launched at Avadh Girls’ Degree College, Lucknow, on Monday.
Sarojininagar MLA Dr. Rajeshwar Singh interacted with the students and spoke about financial literacy, digital skills, cyber safety and the need to prepare continuously for a technology-driven employment landscape.
Financial Knowledge Is Freedom
Dr. Singh said financial literacy is not limited to saving and investing; it is the foundation of financial independence, economic security and confident decision-making.
“Every young person must understand budgeting, banking, insurance, credit, mutual funds, Systematic Investment Plans, risk and returns. Financial knowledge gives women the confidence to control their resources, secure their future and make independent decisions,” he said.
He observed that women already demonstrate exceptional ability in managing household budgets and resources. When this inherent strength is combined with knowledge of modern banking, investments and digital finance, women become powerful drivers of family prosperity and national economic growth.
Educate One Woman, Empower a Family
Addressing the students, Dr. Singh said that the benefits of education must extend beyond the individual.
“You have received the opportunity to study at a distinguished institution under the guidance of dedicated teachers. Your responsibility must not end with your own progress. Share financial knowledge with your parents, relatives and community,” he said.
He added that an educated and financially aware young woman possesses the power not only to transform her own future but also to protect and empower her entire family.
Digital Access Needs Digital Safety
Highlighting the growing risks of the digital economy, Dr. Singh said banking, investment, shopping, education, healthcare and communication are now deeply connected with digital platforms.
“Digital technology has expanded opportunity and convenience, but it has also increased exposure to cybercrime and financial fraud. Digital literacy is no longer optional—it is essential for the security of every citizen,” he asserted.
Referring to the sharp rise in cyber-financial fraud complaints, Dr. Singh said that approximately 2.5 lakh complaints were reported in 2021, while the cumulative number had risen to nearly 32 lakh by August 2026.
He urged students to follow the principle of “Pause, Verify and Report”, never disclose their OTP, PIN or password, avoid suspicious links, and immediately report cyber-financial fraud through the national helpline 1930.
Become Cyber-Safety Ambassadors
Dr. Singh called upon every student to become an ambassador of financial literacy and cyber safety.
“If one informed student educates ten members of her family and community, this campaign can grow into a powerful people’s movement. Awareness is our strongest protection against financial fraud,” he said.
₹10 Lakh for College Development
During the programme, Dr. Rajeshwar Singh announced ₹10 lakh in CSR support for strengthening academic facilities and improving student resources at Avadh Girls’ Degree College.
He also committed support for upgrading the college’s Digital Literacy Laboratory so that students can acquire practical knowledge of digital technology, online safety, artificial intelligence and emerging workplace requirements.
Dr. Singh said modern education must equip students not only with degrees but also with the digital confidence and practical skills required to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
He commended Principal Dr. Beena Rai and the entire college faculty for advancing education, values, confidence and the holistic development of young women.
Digital Education for Every Student
Dr. Singh said that expanding access to quality education and digital opportunities remains a central priority in Sarojininagar.
Work has been undertaken to provide smart classrooms and digital libraries across more than 70 schools and colleges in the constituency, ensuring that the absence of resources does not restrict a student’s talent or aspirations.
“Technology must not remain limited to entertainment or convenience. It must become an instrument of education, innovation, employment and self-reliance,” he said.
Skills Will Define the Future
Speaking about artificial intelligence, automation and the changing nature of employment, Dr. Singh said a degree alone would no longer be sufficient.
“Young people must continuously upskill and reskill. Financial knowledge, digital competence, adaptability and job-oriented capabilities will determine success in the emerging economy,” he said.
Awareness Across 21 Cities
Dr. Singh praised Franklin Templeton India for taking practical financial education to the younger generation, particularly women students.
The campaign will travel from Lucknow to 21 towns and cities across Uttar Pradesh before concluding in Ayodhya. Students will receive guidance on banking, budgeting, mutual funds, SIPs, investments, risk management and long-term financial planning.
The programme was attended by Franklin Templeton India President Avinash Satwalekar; Director–Sales Enablement Juzer Tambawala; Associate Director and Head–Sales Siddharth Bhattacharya; and FinX–CIEL Director and Head–Investor Awareness Training Nikunj Sharma, along with faculty members and a large number of students.
Concluding his address, Dr. Rajeshwar Singh said:
“A financially empowered daughter does not merely secure her own future—she becomes the foundation of her family’s security, prosperity and progress. Learn, remain vigilant and carry the message of financial literacy and cyber safety to every home.”