UPITEX 2026 Wraps Up with Impressive Rs 425 Crore Business Enquiries and Massive Footfall
The Uttar Pradesh International Trade Expo (UPITEX) 2026, held in Lucknow, concluded on Tuesday after a successful five-day run that generated business enquiries worth approximately Rs 425 crore. The event proved to be a major attraction, drawing over 1.5 lakh visitors who flocked to explore the diverse offerings and experiences.
Showcasing Regional Diversity and Cultural Richness
UPITEX 2026 served as a vibrant platform highlighting products not only from Uttar Pradesh but also from neighboring states like Madhya Pradesh and others. Attendees were treated to a rich tapestry of cultural programmes and culinary experiences, making the expo a holistic celebration of regional heritage and innovation. The event effectively bridged commerce with culture, offering something for everyone.
Key Conference on Skilling Youth for Global Competitiveness
On the final day, a pivotal conference titled 'Skilling Uttar Pradesh for Global Competitiveness' brought together government officials, industry leaders, and academics. The discussion centered on strategies to prepare the youth for the evolving workforce, with a focus on practical, industry-relevant skills.
The panel featured notable figures including:
- Hari Om, Principal Secretary of Vocational Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
- Pulkit Khare, Mission Director of the Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Mission (UPSDM)
- Priya Singh, Additional Mission Director of UPSDM
- Ajay Jain, Managing Director of Microlit
- Kavita Nigam, Chief Human Resources Officer of Karam Safety Pvt Ltd
Insights from Industry and Government Leaders
Hari Om emphasized that knowledge alone is insufficient in today's competitive landscape. He stated, "Young people must acquire skills that make them better than others," highlighting the need for hands-on skills and a strong desire for self-improvement. He urged industries to train youth at their workplaces, with government support for training costs, to prevent skill gaps that could hinder industrial growth.
Pulkit Khare detailed the initiatives of UPSDM, which offers free online and offline courses aligned with industry requirements. He explained, "Youth can select courses of their interest and, upon completion, participate in job fairs with certificates provided by the govt." He added that industries can become training partners, with costs reimbursed if 80% of trained candidates secure placements. Khare also encouraged youth to enhance their soft skills and leverage artificial intelligence in their respective fields.
Kavita Nigam advised students to align their skills with industry needs, stressing that employment opportunities are reserved for those equipped with the right skill sets. Her remarks underscored the importance of proactive skill development in securing career advancements.
Spotlight on MSME Innovations and Millet-Based Products
The expo also provided a platform for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) from Madhya Pradesh, showcasing innovative products. Santosh Choubey of Raman Greens displayed 23 varieties of millet cookies, highlighting the growing trend in healthy, sustainable food options. Meanwhile, Rishit Agrawal of Bananify presented raw banana powder, a versatile product suitable for all age groups, demonstrating the potential of agri-based innovations.
Overall, UPITEX 2026 not only boosted business prospects but also fostered discussions on critical issues like skill development, positioning Uttar Pradesh as a key player in the global trade arena.
