A high-level delegation from the Canadian Hindu Chambers of Commerce held a significant meeting with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow on Sunday. The group expressed a strong desire to channel investments into the state's key economic areas.
Delegation Seeks Opportunities in Key Sectors
The 24-member team, led by the Chambers' founder President Naresh Kumar Chawda, discussed potential collaborations in micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME), religious tourism, and the hospitality industry. In an official statement, the Chief Minister warmly welcomed the delegates and promised them full support from his administration.
CM Adityanath emphasized the state's commitment to fostering new ventures in trade, technology, and tourism, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision. He highlighted Uttar Pradesh's robust security framework, effective governance, and highly favourable investment environment as key strengths.
Showcasing Uttar Pradesh's Economic Prowess
The Chief Minister detailed several successful state initiatives. He pointed to the transformative One District-One Product (ODOP) scheme, which has bolstered traditional industries and supports approximately 9.6 million MSME units. This initiative has positively impacted an estimated 25 million families across the state.
Adityanath made a notable observation about the changing market dynamics, stating that Chinese goods have largely vanished from local markets. Products under the ODOP banner are now prominently branded and are even chosen as official state gifts.
On the broader economic front, the Chief Minister stated that Uttar Pradesh is now a top contributor to the national economy. He revealed that the state secured investment proposals worth a staggering Rs 40 lakh crore during the Global Investors Summit, with projects valued at Rs 15 lakh crore already in the implementation phase.
Future Collaborations and Infrastructure Growth
Rapid infrastructure development was another major highlight. The CM spoke of vastly improved connectivity, an expanding network of airports, and the rise of new-age sectors like data centres, logistics, and advanced technologies.
From the delegation's side, Naresh Kumar Chawda announced concrete plans to strengthen ties. He said the 'Invest India, Invest Canada' initiative will be organized on three occasions in Canada in 2026, with two of these events being specifically focused on Uttar Pradesh.
Chawda confirmed that the Chambers will actively work in the state within the discussed sectors of MSMEs, religious tourism, and hospitality. The group also has plans to explore initiatives in healthcare and facilities for senior citizens in the future.
