Lucknow: In a significant push for infrastructure and economic development, the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has approved a ₹7,488.74 crore expressway project to connect the Agra-Lucknow Expressway with the Ganga Expressway. This 90-kilometre greenfield corridor will originate in Etawah, pass through Farrukhabad, and terminate at Hardoi, significantly improving connectivity in central Uttar Pradesh.
Fast-Track Construction Timeline
The expressway is slated for completion in 548 days from project initiation. Post-completion, the contracted construction agency will be responsible for the road’s maintenance for five years, ensuring long-term quality and usability. The expressway is expected to streamline traffic flow, improve regional logistics, and support local economies along its route.
Support for Households Under Ujjwala Yojana
In addition to the expressway project, the Cabinet approved key welfare measures. Under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, 18.6 million families across the state will receive two free LPG cylinders during the festive seasons of Holi and Diwali. The move aims to provide direct relief to economically disadvantaged women and promote clean cooking fuels.
Agriculture Procurement Policies Announced
Focusing on farmers, the Cabinet unveiled its paddy and coarse grain procurement policy under the Price Enhancement Scheme for the Kharif year 2025–26.
Key Highlights:
- Paddy Procurement
- Western UP: October 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026
- Eastern UP: October 15, 2025 – February 28, 2026
- MSP for common paddy: ₹2,369 per quintal
Coarse Grains Procurement
- Procurement Period: October 1 – December 31, 2025
- Maize MSP: ₹2,400 per quintal (Bulandshahr, Badaun)
- Bajra MSP: ₹2,775 per quintal (Agra, Mathura, and others)
To facilitate this, the government has set a target of six million metric tonnes for paddy procurement and increased operational centres by 700 new locations. These centres will be equipped with electronic weighing machines and moisture-measuring devices to ensure transparency and convenience for farmers.
Boost to Higher Education and Employment
The Cabinet also made strides in the higher education and employment sectors. Letters of Intent were granted for the establishment of three new private universities:
- Thakur Yuvraj Singh University in Fatehpur
- Gandhi University in Jhansi
- Radha Govind University in Chandausi
These institutions are part of the government’s efforts to make Uttar Pradesh a hub for quality higher education.
Sant Kabir Textile and Apparel Park Scheme Approved
A major decision to strengthen the textile sector came with the approval of the Sant Kabir Textile and Apparel Park Scheme. Each park will span 50 acres and is expected to generate over 1,500 jobs per park. This initiative is aimed at boosting industrial growth and creating employment opportunities in the textile sector across the state.
22 Proposals Cleared to Propel Growth
The Cabinet meeting saw approval of 22 key proposals, reflecting a multi-sectoral approach to development across infrastructure, agriculture, education, and welfare. These decisions are set to reinforce Uttar Pradesh’s status as an emerging growth engine under the current administration.
