In a landmark move aimed at propelling Uttar Pradesh toward becoming a one-trillion-dollar economy, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, alongside World Bank President Ajay Banga, launched two ambitious initiatives—UP-AGRIS and AI Pragya—on Friday.
These transformative programs are designed to revolutionize both agriculture and digital innovation in the state. The initiatives were officially unveiled during a joint event held at the Chief Minister's residence in Lucknow, where senior officials and global dignitaries were in attendance.
Modernizing Agriculture: The UP-AGRIS Project
With a total outlay of ₹4,000 crore, the Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Resilience and Innovation for Sustainability (UP-AGRIS) project is set to modernize farming in the underdeveloped Purvanchal and Bundelkhand regions. The project will benefit nearly 10 lakh farmers, with a particular focus on sustainable, technology-driven agriculture.
The World Bank will provide a ₹2,737 crore loan over six years at a low interest rate of 1.23%, with the remaining ₹1,166 crore contributed by the state government. The loan is structured with a generous 35-year repayment period.
"This project will uplift the farming community and introduce them to global best practices," said Chief Minister Adityanath. “We aim to integrate technology with tradition.”
The initiative also emphasizes women’s empowerment, reserving 30% of the project’s benefits for women and forming 10,000 women producer groups. Additionally, 500 farmers will be sent abroad for exposure to international agricultural practices.
Covering 21 districts in eastern Uttar Pradesh and 7 districts in Bundelkhand, the project targets widespread agricultural advancement, benefiting farmers, fishers, FPOs, and agri-based MSMEs.
Fostering the AI Revolution: AI Pragya
The AI Pragya programme aims to turn Uttar Pradesh into an artificial intelligence powerhouse. Under this scheme, 10 lakh youth across the state will be trained in cutting-edge digital skills including AI, machine learning, data analytics, and cybersecurity. Participants will receive industry-recognized certifications.
The programme will be implemented in collaboration with multiple departments—education, health, agriculture, rural development, and revenue—to ensure a broad impact across sectors.
"Uttar Pradesh is now a growth engine for India, not a hindrance to progress," Adityanath remarked, highlighting the state's evolving economic role on the global stage.
Nutrition Mission and Global Learning
Adityanath also announced the upcoming launch of the CM Nutrition Mission, aimed at improving child nutrition for those aged six months to six years. The mission will involve partnerships with voluntary organisations, and a study delegation will visit Indonesia to learn from its successful child nutrition programs.
Global Recognition and Partnerships
The launch event featured a short film highlighting Uttar Pradesh's rapid development and was attended by World Bank Vice President Auguste Tano Kouamé, India Country Director John Roome, and several state ministers including Suresh Khanna, Surya Pratap Shahi, Swatantra Dev Singh, and Baldev Singh Aulakh.
World Bank President Ajay Banga praised Uttar Pradesh for its forward-looking vision and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting the state's socio-economic transformation.
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