Uttar Pradesh : Foundation Day was marked with strong messages of progress, cultural pride, and future-focused governance, as top national and state leaders congratulated the people of the state. The occasion highlighted how Uttar Pradesh has evolved from a region facing deep-rooted challenges into one of India’s key growth drivers, balancing rapid development with a rich historical and spiritual legacy.
Uttar Pradesh Diwas is celebrated every year on January 24 to commemorate the day when the United Provinces was officially renamed Uttar Pradesh in 1950, shedding its colonial identity. The day has since become an opportunity to reflect on the state’s journey, its role in nation-building, and its aspirations for the future. This year’s celebrations emphasized transformation, governance reforms, and inclusive growth.
The Prime Minister, who represents Varanasi in the Lok Sabha, described Uttar Pradesh as a powerful example of how development and heritage can progress together. In a written message shared during the celebrations, he spoke about his personal bond with the state and credited its people for contributing significantly to India’s overall development momentum. He noted that the strength, talent, and resilience of Uttar Pradesh continue to accelerate national progress.
Uttar Pradesh’s deep cultural roots were highlighted as central to its identity. The state is home to globally revered spiritual centers such as Ayodhya, Mathura, Vrindavan, and Sarnath. These places have shaped India’s civilizational values and continue to attract pilgrims and tourists from across the world. Recent milestones, including major temple projects, religious congregations, and heritage corridor redevelopments, were cited as reflections of the state’s cultural revival.
The leadership underlined the rapid expansion of infrastructure across Uttar Pradesh. New expressways, improved airport connectivity, industrial corridors, and defense manufacturing zones have strengthened the state’s economic foundation. With growing investments and better connectivity, Uttar Pradesh is moving steadily toward its long-term goal of becoming a one trillion dollar economy, aligning with India’s broader growth vision.
Addressing the state-level event in the capital, the Union Home Minister stated that improved law and order and governance reforms have unlocked Uttar Pradesh’s growth potential. He said the state has moved away from the image of weak economic and social indicators to emerge as a breakthrough region. According to him, investor confidence has increased due to stability, security, and transparent administration.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister announced several new initiatives aimed at employment generation and skill development. A major highlight was a youth-focused employment and industrial zone programme, under which land will be developed in every district to support jobs, entrepreneurship, and industrial growth. The objective is to align young people’s skills with real employment and business opportunities.
Building on the success of district-based production initiatives, a new scheme focusing on district-specific cuisine was launched. This programme aims to promote traditional foods by improving hygiene standards, branding, and market access, helping local entrepreneurs reach national and international consumers. Such initiatives are expected to boost livelihoods while preserving local identity.
During the celebrations, individuals and officials were honoured for their contributions to innovation, governance, and public service. Award recipients under state recognition programmes were praised for their dedication and alignment with the broader vision of a developed India. District administrators were also acknowledged for their performance in youth-oriented schemes that support self-employment and enterprise.
From New Delhi, the President extended her greetings to the people of Uttar Pradesh, expressing confidence that the state would continue advancing on the path of sustained progress. She described Uttar Pradesh as a land of glorious history and rich culture that has consistently played a vital role in India’s development journey.
As Uttar Pradesh celebrates its foundation day, the collective message from the leadership centered on unity, inclusive growth, cultural pride, and a future driven by opportunities for youth, innovation, and economic strength.
