In a significant development for Uttar Pradesh's industrial and technological landscape, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath held a high-level meeting with Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran on Monday. The discussions centred on accelerating the Tata Group's existing projects in the state and exploring substantial new investments across diverse sectors.
Blueprint for a Tech-Driven Future: AI City and Skill Development
The meeting yielded several ambitious proposals aimed at positioning Uttar Pradesh as a leader in future technologies. The most notable announcement was the proposal to develop an 'AI City' in the state capital, Lucknow. This project is envisioned to establish UP as a global hub for artificial intelligence, bolstering the startup ecosystem and creating thousands of high-tech jobs.
Progress on the Rs 48-crore Centre of Excellence in Gorakhpur was also reviewed. This centre is expected to provide advanced technical training, particularly empowering youth from the Purvanchal region. Furthermore, under an MoU with IIT Kanpur, Tata Group initiatives will train young professionals in cutting-edge domains like AI, cybersecurity, data science, 3D printing, drones, and space technology.
To expand the digital talent pool, plans were discussed to set up a Global Capability Centre (GCC) in the state. A major boost is expected from the proposal to increase the workforce at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) units in Lucknow and Noida from 16,000 to 30,000 employees.
Major Expansions in Manufacturing, EVs, and Hospitality
The talks covered extensive ground regarding industrial expansion. In electronics manufacturing, the Tata Group expressed keen interest in scaling up investments in mobile devices and electronic components, encouraged by the state's rapid development pace. A collaboration with Intel was also mentioned to strengthen this ecosystem.
On the mobility front, discussions included expanding investments in electric buses and new electric vehicle (EV) models. Tata Motors is already working on scaling EV manufacturing within the state. In the critical defence sector, the group proposed increasing investments in drones, missiles, and defence vehicles across nodes of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor, including Jhansi.
The hospitality sector is set for a significant upgrade. Chandrasekaran informed that construction of 30 hotels under Taj, SeleQtions, and Vivanta brands is underway, adding around 1,900 luxury rooms. An additional 30 hotels are planned by 2026, including a signature property in Noida.
Focus on Energy, Tourism, and Sustainable Development
The meeting also reviewed progress on key infrastructure and cultural projects. Tata Power's 1,900-megawatt thermal unit in Prayagraj and its 50-megawatt solar projects in Prayagraj and Banda were highlighted for their contribution to the state's energy needs and renewable goals. Solar rooftop projects across all 75 districts are also being implemented.
In tourism, the proposed 'Museum of Temple' in Ayodhya was discussed, with an emphasis on completing its first phase by January 2027 using technology-driven displays. Additionally, the Tata Group has agreed to support the rejuvenation of eight major ponds in the Mathura-Vrindavan region, including Mansi Ganga Kund and Radha Kund, along with conservation works at major Ganga ghats.
Chief Minister Adityanath reiterated the state government's commitment to providing a stable policy framework and a business-friendly environment. He expressed confidence that this multi-dimensional partnership with the Tata Group would propel the state's economy, employment generation, and technological self-reliance to new heights, calling it a milestone towards UP's trillion-dollar economy goal.
