Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, while addressing the UP-Japan Investment Meet held at Indira Gandhi Pratishthan, stressed the synergy between Uttar Pradesh's agricultural wealth, food processing potential and Japan's cutting-edge technology.
Addressing distinguished guests, the Ambassador of Japan to India, members of the Japanese delegation and entrepreneurs, Keshav Prasad Maurya said that Uttar Pradesh today stands fully prepared on the global stage with its outstanding products and immense potential. He stated, “The state's vast market is open to all investors and entrepreneurs. Under the visionary guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the capable leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, a golden era of investment has begun in Uttar Pradesh.”
He added, “It is due to the continuous efforts of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath that all stakeholders are now sitting together to prepare a concrete roadmap for this historic partnership.”
The Deputy Chief Minister further stated that there is a clear resolve that no dining table anywhere in the world should be without at least one agricultural or food product from Uttar Pradesh, India's largest state. He said that entrepreneurs possess the capability to achieve this goal, and Japanese partners are present today to help take this capability to new heights.
Keshav Prasad Maurya remarked, “India-Japan relations are not confined to trade and technology alone. They are built on a strong foundation of trust, shared culture and mutual goodwill. In 2027, the two countries will complete 75 years of cordial diplomatic relations. The sacred teachings of Lord Buddha spiritually connect both nations. Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh, which today falls within Prime Minister Narendra Modi's parliamentary constituency. Sarnath is included in UNESCO's World Heritage list. The deep reverence of Buddhist followers in Japan demonstrates that the cultural roots of both countries are one and the same.”
He said, “Uttar Pradesh possesses fertile land, abundant water resources, hardworking farmers, and the country's largest youth workforce. If these strengths are combined with Japan's advanced technology and access to global markets, products from Uttar Pradesh can establish their identity across every corner of the world.”
The Deputy CM informed, “Nearly 65 per cent of Uttar Pradesh's population depends on agriculture. The government's objective is not limited to production alone, but also includes promoting food processing, value addition and exports. This will ensure better returns for farmers, significantly increase their incomes and provide fresh momentum to the rural economy.”
He said that after assuming office in 2017, the government implemented a robust Food Processing Policy, which was made even more practical and attractive in 2023. He stated, “Today, Uttar Pradesh is the first state in the country to provide substantial capital subsidies, exemptions in mandi fees and extensive financial incentives for setting up food processing units. The government is also providing up to 90 per cent subsidy on solar power for units established under women's leadership. Establishing modern processing units at every block and tehsil level is a key objective of the government. For this, the state has adequate land banks, 24-hour power supply and one of the country's finest expressway and logistics networks.”
He asserted that whether it is Lucknow, Varanasi, Kushinagar or the under-construction Jewar (Noida International) Airport, Uttar Pradesh's international airports are providing direct connectivity with the world.
Keshav Prasad Maurya remarked, “An investor travelling from Tokyo can directly land in Uttar Pradesh and operate a business here. The state is also home to the historic and unique Kala Namak Rice, popularly known as ‘Buddha Rice’. More than one crore rural women in Uttar Pradesh are associated with self-help groups and are engaged in manufacturing a variety of products.
Assuring Japanese investors, the Deputy Chief Minister said that Uttar Pradesh offers the best law-and-order environment, complete security and a transparent single-window system. He called upon stakeholders to combine Uttar Pradesh's agricultural wealth with Japanese technology and transform the state into not only India's but the world's largest food processing hub.
Japan's Ambassador to India, Ono Keiichi, highlighted the potential to deepen Japan-Uttar Pradesh cooperation in food processing, technology and human resource development. He said that Uttar Pradesh's agricultural strength, industrial base and talented human resources offer significant opportunities for Japanese companies. Practical partnerships should be developed that connect technology, investment and skills with local opportunities and create long-term value for both sides.
Harry Hakuei Kosato, Director of Kikkoman India, emphasised Japan's long-term commitment to India and said that Japanese companies must adapt their products to suit the preferences and needs of Indian consumers. He highlighted the growing acceptance of Japanese and Pan-Asian cuisine in India and the opportunities for expansion from B2B to B2C markets. Kosato also underlined the potential for local manufacturing in Uttar Pradesh and said that India could emerge as a major export hub for neighbouring and international markets.
The session was also attended by Sudeep Goenka, Director of Goldiee Group, Dinesh Kumar Choudhary, Head of UP Operations at Amul (Banas Dairy), and several other participants.
