Union Defence Minister and Lucknow MP Rajnath Singh declared on Friday that the journey to a developed India (Viksit Bharat) is intrinsically linked to the progress of Uttar Pradesh. He positioned the state as a pivotal leader in the nation's quest for self-reliance, spanning sectors from defence production to sustainable transportation.
Uttar Pradesh: The Engine of National Progress
Speaking at the inauguration of the Ashok Leyland electric vehicle facility in Lucknow, Singh expressed strong confidence in India's long-term economic path. He stated that the national objective of transforming India into a developed country by 2047, a vision set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will be achieved through the accelerated advancement of states like Uttar Pradesh. "The progress of Uttar Pradesh is central to the progress of the nation," he asserted.
The minister highlighted a dramatic turnaround for the state, which was once disparagingly tagged as part of the 'BIMARU' region and struggled with governance issues. He credited Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for ushering in decisive improvements in law and order and crafting a robust, investor-friendly environment. This transformation, Singh noted, has successfully attracted massive industrial investments from both domestic players and global giants, including Fortune 500 companies.
From Defence to EVs: UP's Dual Thrust
Rajnath Singh specifically underscored Uttar Pradesh's expanding footprint in defence manufacturing. He revealed that the state is now producing a diverse array of critical equipment for the armed forces, which includes:
- Ammunition
- Aircraft components
- Advanced missile systems like the BrahMos
He said this production prowess demonstrates the tangible success of the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) campaigns, establishing UP as a crucial hub for defence indigenisation.
Shifting focus to the new Ashok Leyland EV plant, the Defence Minister labelled it a landmark achievement for Uttar Pradesh's industrial landscape. He praised the Hinduja Group and Ashok Leyland for completing the facility in a record 18 months, far ahead of the initial 60-month timeline, citing excellent coordination between the industry and the state government.
Clean Mobility and Youth Empowerment
Singh emphasized that electric vehicles symbolize the future of transport, predicting a gradual decline in dependence on petroleum-based vehicles. He stated that projects like the Lucknow EV unit are vital for sustainable economic growth.
"This project will generate employment opportunities for the youth of the state and equip them with skills in emerging EV technologies, allowing them to build their futures within their own state," he said. The facility is also envisioned as a major skill development centre, aiming to prepare a large number of young people for lucrative jobs and higher income prospects, thereby positioning both Uttar Pradesh and India at the forefront of clean, green, and future-ready technologies.
