The Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Growth and Rural Enterprise Ecosystem Strengthening Project (UPAGREES), aimed at enhancing productivity, climate resilience, and market orientation in agriculture and allied sectors, has achieved significant implementation progress. The project has now commenced field-level activities among farmers in 28 selected districts.
Project Overview and World Bank Review
The UPAGREES project seeks to transform agriculture in Uttar Pradesh by making it more productive, climate-resilient, and market-oriented. A six-member World Bank support mission visited the state from June 1 to 5 to review progress. The mission expressed satisfaction with the project's advancements, noting that UPAGREES is transitioning from planning into active field implementation. Emphasis is placed on climate resilience, technology adoption, and improving farmers' incomes across vulnerable districts.
Paddy Sector Initiatives
In the paddy sector, demonstration plots are being established in eastern Uttar Pradesh with support from the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). These plots provide practical training to farmers on improved cultivation techniques. Additionally, the state government is distributing quality agricultural inputs free of cost to support these efforts.
Field-Level Impact Assessment
During its visit, the World Bank team assessed field-level impact. In Varanasi, they reviewed innovations in paddy cultivation and interacted with farmers, who reported enhanced productivity and better cost management. In Bahraich, the team examined progress in fisheries, including the adoption of modern techniques and improved fish seed varieties. These activities underscore the project's focus on sustainable and profitable farming practices across the region.
