Uttar Pradesh Targets Top Spot as India's Food Processing Hub
Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya outlined an ambitious vision for Uttar Pradesh on Friday. He declared the state is ready to become the nation's leading food processing center. Maurya made this announcement during the inauguration of the India Food Expo 2026 and an accompanying exhibition in Lucknow.
Policy Push and Investor Incentives
Maurya emphasized the state's investor-friendly food processing policy. He highlighted the government's strong focus on strengthening the crucial link between agriculture and industry. The deputy chief minister stated that Uttar Pradesh offers a highly conducive environment for industrial investment. He pointed to robust law and order and rapidly expanding economic opportunities as key supporting factors.
"The aim is to increase farmers' income through technology, branding, and enhanced production," Maurya said. He added that this effort also seeks to position India as the world's top economy. The deputy chief minister believes food processing in Uttar Pradesh holds immense potential for youth, women, and entrepreneurs across the state.
Support for Entrepreneurs and Key Initiatives
During the event, Maurya released the official industrial directory. He also distributed certificates of appreciation to several key stakeholders. These included bankers, entrepreneurs, and beneficiaries of the PMFME (Prime Minister's Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises) scheme.
In a significant move, cheques for lines of credit and subsidies were handed over to five selected entrepreneurs. Maurya specifically noted a major incentive for women entrepreneurs. He announced that women setting up businesses in this sector can receive up to a 90% subsidy for integrating solar energy into their operations.
Focus on Quality and Community Empowerment
Maurya stressed the importance of the Swachh Bharat–Swasth Bharat initiative in the food sector. He urged that local products must meet high-quality standards. The deputy chief minister also emphasized promoting value addition and improved marketing. He suggested these goals could be effectively achieved through active self-help groups (SHGs).
Maurya directly appealed to the youth and entrepreneurs of Uttar Pradesh. He encouraged them to actively leverage platforms like the upcoming India Food Expo 2026 to grow their businesses and ideas.
Industry Collaboration and Strategic Discussions
The seminar was organized jointly with the Indian Industries Association (IIA). It featured presentations by key officials and industry leaders. Additional Chief Secretary BL Meena and IIA National President Dinesh Goyal addressed the gathering. Prominent entrepreneurs also shared their insights and experiences.
Discussions at the event centered on several critical areas. Participants explored policy incentives designed to boost the sector. They also talked about technological innovation needed for modern food processing. A major focus was placed on developing effective strategies to better connect farmers, entrepreneurs, and end consumers in the supply chain.
