U.P. CM unveils two initiatives with support of World Bank, Pg2

The Hindu | May 10, 2025

• Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath launched two initiatives: UP AGREES and AI Pragya in collaboration with the World Bank.

  • UP AGREES will focus on agricultural innovation in 28 districts of Bundelkhand and Purvanchal.

  • AI Pragya aims to train 10 lakh youth in Artificial Intelligence, building a strong talent base.

  • CM emphasized the World Banks role in advancing UPs goal of becoming a $1 trillion economy.

• Objective: To promote agritech and digital upskilling, fostering inclusive development and economic growth in underdeveloped regions.

  • UP AGREES Initiative: Targets agricultural modernization, likely through climate-resilient practices, data-driven farming, and infrastructure support.

  • AI Pragya: Focuses on AI literacy, skilling, and job-readiness among the youth, aligning with Indias push for a digital economy.

  • Strategic Partnership: Symbolizes increasing subnational cooperation with global institutions like the World Bank for localized development.

• AI Upskilling: Training individuals in the use of artificial intelligence technologies for economic empowerment.

  • Agritech Innovation: Use of modern technologies (IoT, AI, data analytics) to boost productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in farming.

• Strengthens public-international institution partnership for targeted development.

  • Addresses regional disparities by focusing on backward areas of UP.

  • Contributes to employment generation, agrarian reform, and youth empowerment.

  • Supports Indias broader ambition of becoming a global hub for digital talent and sustainable agriculture.

Mains Mock Question:

Critically examine the role of international institutions in supporting state-level development initiatives in India. How can digital skilling and agritech programs contribute to inclusive growth in underdeveloped regions?