Uttar Pradesh is redefining its agricultural landscape—moving beyond subsistence farming to become a hub of income generation, employment, and exports. The state government has launched an ambitious plan to establish 1,000 food processing units in each district, aiming to strengthen agri-based industries and create large-scale employment opportunities.
In a significant international collaboration, an Indo-Dutch Centre of Excellence will be set up in Trivediganj, Barabanki, in partnership with the Netherlands. This center will focus on research and training in advanced cultivation techniques for flowers and vegetables, making horticulture more scientific and suitable for international export standards.
To support the growing export demand, a modern export hub is also being planned near Jewar Airport, which will facilitate direct access to premium global markets like Europe and the US. Additionally, a Gamma Radiation Plant has been established in Lucknow’s Nadarganj Industrial Area to treat fruits and vegetables, making them infection-free and extending their shelf life.
The state is now promoting scientific, labour-intensive, and high-return farming practices beyond traditional methods. This shift has reduced disguised unemployment and significantly improved farmer incomes. According to CII President Sanjiv Puri, cultivating fruits and vegetables yields 2 to 2.5 times more profit than traditional crops and creates large-scale rural employment.
Over 17,000 food processing units have already been set up under the Pradhan Mantri Khadya Unnayan Yojana, offering up to 35 per cent subsidy and Rs 30 lakh in loans. Women entrepreneurs receive up to 90 per cent subsidy for installing solar plants in such units. These facilities create jobs across multiple areas, including nurseries, plantation, plucking, grading, packaging, and logistics.
Post-Covid health awareness has led to a spike in demand for fresh produce. An SBI report states that per capita fruit and vegetable consumption in the state has increased from 7 kg to 12 kg per year over the last decade. Uttar Pradesh currently leads the country in both production and consumption of fruits and vegetables.
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