Lucknow: Highlighting the state’s investor-friendly food processing policy and the govt’s focus on strengthening the agriculture-industry linkage, deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya on Friday said Uttar Pradesh is poised to become the country’s food processing hub. He also urged youth and entrepreneurs to leverage platforms such as the India Food Expo 2026.
During the inauguration of the expo and exhibition in Lucknow, Maurya released the industrial directory and distributed certificates of appreciation to bankers, entrepreneurs and beneficiaries of the PMFME scheme. Cheques for lines of credit and subsidies were also handed over to five entrepreneurs.
Maurya said Uttar Pradesh offers a conducive environment for industrial investment, backed by strong law and order and fast-growing economic opportunities. “The aim is to increase farmers’ income through technology, branding and production, and to position India as the world’s top economy. Food processing in Uttar Pradesh offers immense potential for youth, women and entrepreneurs,” he said.
He noted that women entrepreneurs setting up businesses in the sector can receive up to 90% subsidy for solar energy integration. Emphasising the Swachh Bharat-Swasth Bharat initiative, Maurya added that local products should meet high quality standards while promoting value addition and marketing through self-help groups (SHGs).
The seminar, organised jointly with the Indian Industries Association, featured presentations by additional chief secretary BL Meena, IIA national president Dinesh Goyal and prominent entrepreneurs. Discussions focused on policy incentives, technological innovation and strategies to connect farmers, entrepreneurs and consumers.
Source : Timesofindia
