In a significant move to strengthen the industrial ecosystem of Uttar Pradesh, senior government officials, industry representatives, and functionaries from various trade bodies presented a series of practical suggestions during a special meeting with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday in Lucknow. The discussions focused on making ease of doing business more effective across the state, with stakeholders highlighting key areas for improvement.
Key Proposals from Industry Leaders
During the meeting, several prominent industry leaders put forward specific demands aimed at accelerating industrial growth and boosting investor confidence. Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) vice-chairman Abhishek Saraf emphasized the urgent need for land allotment to speed up industrial activities in the Lucknow node of the Defence Corridor, expressing optimism for a swift decision from the government.
Land and Compliance Reforms
Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) chairman Manoj Gupta advocated for making industrial land freehold, arguing that this measure would enhance investor confidence and encourage long-term investments in the state. Meanwhile, a representative from India Pesticides Limited thanked the chief minister for the decriminalisation of various laws, describing it as a major and positive reform for industries operating in Uttar Pradesh.
Assocham co-chairman Hassan Yaqub suggested implementing a system similar to One Company–One Register–One Letter to simplify the compliance process for businesses. He noted that Uttar Pradesh's One District One Product initiative has gained global recognition, with similar programs being launched in countries like the Philippines.
Focus on Youth and Skills Development
The meeting also addressed critical issues related to industrial skills and financial markets. Representatives stressed the importance of further developing Industrial Training Institute (ITI) institutions, promoting research and innovation, and strengthening the equity market. These measures were described as extremely important for building a robust industrial economy in the future.
Information was shared about the initiatives being planned by Assocham Uttar Pradesh for youth placement, highlighting efforts to bridge the gap between industry requirements and workforce skills.
Support for Startups and Real Estate
Nasscom Lucknow chapter chairman Ramesh Jaidi pointed out the need for plug-and-play facilities for small IT companies, stating that such infrastructure would help startups and emerging technology firms grow rapidly. Additionally, CRED AI UP president Shobhit Mohan Das emphasized the necessity of organizing Awas Bandhu meetings at regular intervals, similar to the Udyog Bandhu initiative, to resolve issues in the real estate sector.
Inclusive Industrial Development
During his interaction with Dalit Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry state president Manish Verma, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized the need for concrete and planned efforts to prepare at least 10 young entrepreneurs from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in each district. This initiative aims to ensure inclusive industrial development gains momentum across Uttar Pradesh.
Pollution Control and OTS Scheme
Industry organizations also demanded the introduction of a One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme in pollution control-related cases, seeking to streamline regulatory processes and reduce compliance burdens for businesses.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to implementing these suggestions to enhance Uttar Pradesh's industrial landscape, making it more attractive for investors and conducive for sustainable economic growth.
