Uttar Pradesh Aims for Global Manufacturing Hub Status by 2030, Officials and Industry Leaders Say

Strategic Goals Outlined at Lucknow Summit

Uttar Pradesh is aiming to establish itself as a global manufacturing and manpower supply hub by the year 2030, according to government officials and industry leaders who spoke at the TOI Youth Icons Summit & Awards 2026 in Lucknow.

The discussions, highlighted by a panel titled 'Degree to Destiny: Jobs, Skills and Startups in the New UP,' focused on how targeted government initiatives, infrastructure investments, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence are creating new avenues for employment and entrepreneurship across the state.

Key Drivers: Exports and Schemes

Shashi Bhushan Lal, principal secretary of the MSME and export promotion department for the government of Uttar Pradesh, pointed to the state's One District One Product (ODOP) scheme as a major catalyst for bringing local goods into broader domestic and international markets. According to Lal, the initiative has provided visibility for district-specific products through exhibitions and fairs, while the Export Promotion Bureau has assisted local exporters in navigating international trade.

Lal also noted that traditional artisans and craftspeople have seen direct benefits through rising incomes and support from insurance and health schemes. Addressing the state's status as a landlocked region, he emphasized that ongoing capacity-building programs are designed to help local manufacturers improve competitiveness and leverage upcoming free trade agreements.

Startups, Deeptech, and Artificial Intelligence

The panel also addressed the evolving role of technology and innovation in the state's economy. Rama Krishna of EndureAir Systems emphasized the critical importance of institutional incubation, testing facilities, and land access for early-stage deep-tech and defense startups, particularly during their foundational years. He highlighted that understanding hardware systems engineering will be a vital skill for graduates entering the workforce by 2030.

Meanwhile, Mayank, CEO and founder of ADROSONIC, urged participants to view artificial intelligence not merely as a job sector, but as a practical tool for problem-solving and venture creation. He stressed the necessity of establishing proper ethical guardrails and governance as AI technologies are integrated into businesses.

Ankit Sahani, founder of The Hazelnut Factory, highlighted the state's growing consumer base, improved physical connectivity, and strengthened business environment as key factors attracting entrepreneurs to the region.

Practical Implications and Verification

What is Confirmed:

• The statements and panel discussions occurred at the TOI Youth Icons Summit & Awards 2026 in Lucknow.
• Participants included senior government representation from the MSME and export promotion department alongside regional business founders.
• Government programs like ODOP were cited as key tools for export growth.

What Remains Unknown:

• Specific quantitative metrics or timelines regarding job creation figures beyond the overarching 2030 vision.

How to Verify: Readers can review the original report and official statements through [The Times of India](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/toi-youth-icons-summit-awards-aim-to-make-up-global-manufacturing-hub-by-2030-says-official-industry-leaders/articleshow/135228115.cms).