Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday described 2026 as a “defining year” for the state’s technological and industrial growth, highlighting Uttar Pradesh’s emergence as a global hub for artificial intelligence (AI), data-driven initiatives, and the broader digital economy.

In an extensive message shared in Hindi on X, the chief minister reflected on 2025 as a landmark year for Uttar Pradesh, noting that it had set new benchmarks in innovation, data utilization, and forward-looking development. Adityanath emphasized that these achievements are part of the state’s vision to become a future-ready investment hub, attracting both domestic and global businesses.

Strengthening Brand UP and Ensuring Secure Investment

The chief minister underscored that sustainable investment and development can only flourish when the state and society are secure. He claimed that strong governance over the past years has bolstered “Brand UP” on the international stage, transforming Uttar Pradesh into a trusted and investor-friendly destination.

AI Cities, Semiconductor Units, and Data Centres

Adityanath highlighted several key initiatives underway to reinforce Uttar Pradesh’s technological ecosystem. Plans are in motion to establish dedicated AI cities in Lucknow and Noida, designed to foster innovation, research, and AI-based industry solutions. Additionally, a ₹3,700 crore semiconductor unit is being developed in Jewar, underscoring the state’s focus on high-tech manufacturing.

The chief minister also pointed to the state’s data centre policy, which emphasizes the creation of indigenous centres with secure data protocols. He noted that five hyperscale data centre parks have already become operational for commercial purposes, signaling tangible progress in the digital infrastructure domain.

The government has set a target to attract ₹30,000 crore in investments in the data centre sector alone. Furthermore, software technology parks have been established in nine cities across Uttar Pradesh, offering businesses modern facilities to operate in technology-driven environments.

Advancements in Emerging Technologies

Beyond AI and data infrastructure, the chief minister highlighted Uttar Pradesh’s growing capabilities in cutting-edge sectors, including drone technology, robotics, and mobile manufacturing. According to Adityanath, these developments have contributed to the creation of thousands of new jobs and positioned the state at the forefront of India’s technological revolution.

AI Pragya Initiative and Citizen Engagement

A key aspect of the state’s AI strategy is the ‘AI Pragya’ initiative, through which over 10 lakh citizens are receiving training in artificial intelligence. The program not only builds technological skills among residents but also encourages active participation in knowledge dissemination.

Adityanath urged the youth of Uttar Pradesh to take a proactive role in the state’s transformation. He encouraged citizens to pledge to spread awareness about AI and computers among at least five children in their localities and dedicate one hour every week to “gyaan-daan” — the sharing of knowledge.

Vision for a Developed Uttar Pradesh

The chief minister concluded that the joint efforts of the government and its citizens would help realize the vision of a technologically advanced and developed Uttar Pradesh. By positioning the state as a global hub for science and technology, Adityanath aims to attract investments, create employment opportunities, and enhance innovation-driven growth across multiple sectors.

With these strategic initiatives, Uttar Pradesh seeks not only to strengthen its domestic economic landscape but also to emerge as a significant player on the global stage in AI, digital technologies, and advanced manufacturing by 2026.