Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recently inaugurated the UP-AGREES (Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Growth and Rural Enterprise Ecosystem Strengthening) project in Lucknow. Valued at Rs 4,000 crore, the project aims to transform agriculture and rural enterprises in the state. It is expected to increase agricultural productivity by up to 35% and strengthen the rural economy, marking a significant milestone for farmers and agribusinesses.
The six-year project, set to run until 2029-30, focuses on increasing farm yields, which are expected to rise from 10 quintals per acre to 14-15 quintals, offering a significant boost to the state’s agriculture.
The project is poised to have a lasting impact on the state's agricultural sector, benefiting one million producers, particularly in Eastern UP and Bundelkhand. By improving agricultural value chains, offering better access to finance, and promoting value addition, UP-AGREES aims to empower farmers and foster economic growth.
With the support of the World Bank, which is contributing Rs 2,737 crore, and a state government contribution of Rs 1,166 crore, this initiative is well-equipped to address the challenges faced by farmers.
Uttar Pradesh, often referred to as India’s food basket, contributes 23% of the country's total food grain output. It contributes significantly to India’s vegetable and fruit production, as well as to food grain exports.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted that UP ranks third in foodgrain exports and is a leader in the production of wheat, potatoes, mangoes, guavas, peas and mushrooms.
The UP-AGREES project will help further elevate the state’s agricultural status by integrating smallholder farmers into value chains for high-value commodities, including those in agri-special economic zones and export hubs.
The project's components focus on improving productivity, building climate resilience, and fostering innovation through digital and financial ecosystems. A key initiative under the project is the promotion of the Kisan Credit Card (eKCC), aimed at providing farmers with timely, affordable, and transparent access to credit. Moreover, the project will focus on resource use efficiency, seed systems, and agricultural extension services to ensure farmers are equipped with the latest techniques and tools.
The UP-AGREES project is structured around five key components. The first focuses on increasing productivity by improving resource efficiency, strengthening seed systems, and promoting climate-resilient practices. The second component emphasizes commodity clusters, integrating small farmers into high-value supply chains and creating agri-special economic zones.
The third involves building a robust digital and financial ecosystem, ensuring farmers have better access to technology-driven agricultural solutions. The fourth component is dedicated to project management and capacity building, while the final one, the Contingent Emergency Response Component (CERC), aims to address unforeseen agricultural challenges.
Additionally, the chief minister virtually inaugurated a Rs 1,300-crore greenfield manufacturing plant in Unnao Industrial Corridor.
