Uttar Pradesh Embraces Emerging Technologies, Says CM Yogi Adityanath
Lucknow: On Monday, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced that Uttar Pradesh is becoming a significant center for artificial intelligence, data centers, and advanced technologies like robotics and drones. Speaking at Babu Banarasi Das University’s convocation ceremony, he encouraged educational institutions to adopt these new technologies into their curriculums by offering short courses and diplomas.
“Schools should focus on hands-on experience in areas such as drones, robotics, IoT, and AI, as their significance in various sectors is growing,” Yogi remarked. He emphasized that technology is not a threat to jobs; rather, it creates new opportunities. Citing the rise of computers in the 1990s, he recalled the initial fears of job loss, which turned out to be unfounded since technology ultimately increased employment options.
Yogi highlighted the vital role of artificial intelligence, noting it is crucial across many fields, and stressed that it should always operate under human control. “We have made significant strides in robotics, and our engineering institutions must actively embrace these new technologies,” he said. He added that AI will benefit not just students but also farmers, workers, and professionals in various industries.
He also spoke about India’s recent military strength, noting the indigenously produced BrahMos missile being manufactured in Lucknow, with land provided by the state government at no cost. Once operational, the BrahMos unit is expected to generate an annual revenue of Rs 300-500 crore in GST for the state.
Reflecting on the historical roots of the convocation tradition, Yogi reminded attendees of a time when India was a global leader. He encouraged students to become mentors and strive for excellence, stating, “Those who look for solutions find success, while those who fixate on problems remain stagnant.”
Paying tribute to former leaders Babu Banarasi Das and Akhilesh Das Gupta, the university’s founder, Yogi highlighted India’s development under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He praised initiatives like Khelo India and Fit India, which have integrated sports into daily life, and observed a substantial shift in global perspectives on India since 2014.
Yogi pointed out how critics doubted the government’s effort to open bank accounts for the poor, but this initiative, which led to direct benefit transfers, has helped 50 crore families across the country and curbed corruption. Reflecting on government efficiency, he remarked, “Today, under the Digital India Mission, every rupee reaches its intended recipient.”
He also noted India’s handling of the COVID-19 crisis while launching the New Education Policy in 2020. Reiterating the goal of a Developed India through a Developed Uttar Pradesh, he emphasized that achieving this requires collective effort.
Yogi discussed UP’s transformation from a state once ranked poorly in national evaluations to one now attracting significant investments. “With the right mindset and public engagement, we have positioned Uttar Pradesh as a model for law and order,” he explained. He concluded by celebrating the economic growth, stating that the state has garnered investment proposals exceeding Rs 45 lakh crore in just eight years.
During the ceremony, the Chief Minister awarded medals and degrees to outstanding students. Pro-Chancellor Viraj Sagar Das remarked how the guidance from CM Yogi is vital for creating a brighter future for the youth of India.
