LUCKNOW, July 14 -- Three months after it was launched, the Yogi government's ambitious Dr BR Ambedkar Murti Vikas Yojana (statue development scheme) appears to be making tardy progress in Uttar Pradesh.

The UP Cabinet gave the nod to the scheme on April 7 and the scheme was subsequently launched on Dr Ambedkar's birth anniversary on April 14 this year. Those aware of the development said only 10-20 out of 75 districts of the state have completed the identification process and sent their proposals so far.

Asim Arun, social welfare minister, UP, admitted that work on development of the scheme is yet to begin anywhere. He said his department has requested for a supplementary budget for the scheme and its implementation is being expedited....