Addressing a session on UP food processing policy, deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya stressed the need to link the state’s farm output with local value addition, noting that localized processing creates direct opportunities for rural youth and farmers. Finance minister Suresh Khanna said strict fiscal discipline and banking support have catalyzed steady expansion across manufacturing, agriculture, and services, helping nearly 9.5 lakh youth secure employment. MSME minister Bhupendra Singh Chaudhary emphasised creating an ecosystem ensuring small units gain reliable access to institutional credit, technology, and emerging markets. Industries minister Nand Gopal Gupta ‘Nandi’ pointed out that UPITS is actively positioning local MSMEs and high-value manufacturers to tap into expanding defence manufacturing supply chains. tnn
