India, Oct. 19 -- Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday worshipped Goddess Siddhidatri on the ninth day of Sharadiya Navratri and extended greetings to people across the state, highlighting the festival's cultural significance and the role of women in society.

In his message on the occasion, Adityanath said women's strength, resolve and confidence were important to the state's progress. He said societies that respect women experience prosperity and well-being, linking the values associated with Navratri to women's participation in development.

The chief minister also invoked the ideals associated with Goddess Durga and Lord Ram in a separate message ahead of Vijayadashami. He said the courage of Goddess Durga and the li...