Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Monday approved 12 major proposals, including the formation of a dedicated commission to determine OBC reservation in upcoming Panchayat elections.
The meeting, held at the Chief Minister’s residence, is being seen as a significant policy push ahead of the state’s local body elections.
New OBC Commission to Decide Panchayat Reservation Formula
The cabinet approved the formation of a Backward Class Commission to finalise the structure of OBC reservation in the three-tier Panchayat system.
Key features of the decision include:
- Commission will study OBC representation at the Panchayat level
- Conduct statewide survey across 75 districts
- Prepare data on caste-wise and economic distribution
- Submit recommendation report for reservation allocation
The panel will be headed by a retired High Court judge and will have a six-month tenure.
Officials said the move addresses key legal requirements, including the Supreme Court’s “triple test” guidelines for reservation.
Major Step Ahead of UP Panchayat Elections
The formation of the commission is expected to remove a major legal hurdle that had delayed clarity on OBC reservation in Panchayat elections.
The reservation roster will now be finalised based on the commission’s detailed report, ensuring a structured and legally compliant framework for seat allocation.
Lucknow Metro Expansion Gets Green Signal
The cabinet also approved major urban transport expansion projects, including:
- Charbagh–Basantkunj Metro Corridor in Lucknow
- East-West Corridor MoU for Lucknow Metro expansion
The projects are expected to significantly improve connectivity in the state capital, especially in southern regions.
Boost to Healthcare Infrastructure
Several major health infrastructure projects were cleared, including:
- 1100-bed super-speciality emergency centre at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute
- Expansion of Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital
- 1010-bed emergency centre at Lohia Institute
These projects aim to strengthen emergency care and improve medical services in Lucknow and nearby districts.
Increase in Stipend for Veterinary Students
In a major relief for students, the government increased internship stipend for veterinary students from ₹4,000 to ₹12,000 per month.
Officials said this decision will encourage better participation in veterinary education and training.
Major Infrastructure and Power Sector Decisions
The cabinet also approved several development projects, including:
- ₹2,799 crore transmission substation in Mirzapur
- Strengthening of electricity supply infrastructure across UP
- Agra Metro Corridor-2 land transfer approval
- Construction of metro stations and viaduct in Agra
- Changes in securities-related notifications and service rules
- Establishment of Saradar Patel Apex University in Mirzapur
Officials said the power project will ensure better electricity supply for domestic, commercial, and industrial users, boosting economic activity and employment.
Focus on Development and Governance
Yogi Adityanath said the decisions reflect the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, healthcare expansion, and transparent governance. The cabinet’s decisions are expected to have a long-term impact on Uttar Pradesh’s administrative efficiency and development trajectory.
