Yogi Adityanath has vision, determination, and energy: Ajay Banga

Lucknow : World Bank President Ajay Banga, during his visit to Lucknow on Friday, expressed admiration for Uttar Pradesh’s remarkable development and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s dynamic leadership. Accompanied by a high-level delegation, Banga met with CM Yogi and praised the state’s visible transformation across sectors—from infrastructure to agriculture, healthcare, and tourism.

Deeply touched by the warm reception in Lucknow, he remarked, “It feels like I’ve come back home.” Noting his connection to the state through his in-laws and visiting after 12 years, Banga said he observed a remarkable transformation across all sectors. He highlighted CM Yogi Adityanath’s vision, determination, and energy as key drivers of progress.

Banga emphasized that Uttar Pradesh’s development is crucial for India’s emergence as a global economic power, stating, “A developed UP will form the foundation of a developed India.” He commended the state for its unprecedented strides in infrastructure, robust law and order, and enhanced connectivity. Lauding the Chief Minister’s focused governance, noting that his visionary policies have significantly accelerated the state’s economic growth.

Banga commended the state’s improvements in infrastructure, law and order, and connectivity, saying these advancements have turned Uttar Pradesh into an ideal environment for investment. He noted that such focused governance has opened new doors for economic growth and positioned the state as a rising force in India’s development story.

Emphasizing the importance of agriculture, Banga described small farmers as “the true wealth of Uttar Pradesh”. ot in selling land but in adopting advanced farming practices. He advocated for greater promotion of modern agricultural technologies and innovations, describing agriculture as the backbone of the rural economy. He commended the state government’s efforts to advance the agricultural sector and empower the farming community.

The World Bank President also recognized Uttar Pradesh’s immense potential in tourism, especially in religious, cultural, and eco-tourism. He pointed out that the state’s rich culinary traditions and local crafts have begun gaining global popularity. “He also praised the international appeal of Uttar Pradesh’s cuisine and traditional crafts, stating that both have gained significant recognition beyond India’s borders. According to Banga, these unique cultural assets can play a crucial role in further strengthening the state’s local economy.

He further applauded the government’s success in promoting the manufacturing sector, especially its focus on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The business-friendly policies and improved ease of doing business, he said, have made Uttar Pradesh an attractive destination for global and domestic investors alike.

Banga also praised the government’s focus on youth empowerment through skill development. Highlighting the ‘Readymade Meal for Mothers’ scheme, he described it as a model initiative in maternal nutrition and health. He expressed admiration for the reforms undertaken in healthcare and education, remarking that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is delivering excellent governance backed by a clear and determined vision.

Accompanying Ajay Banga were World Bank Vice President Auguste Tano Kouame and Country Director for India, John and Mark. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended a warm welcome to the delegation on behalf of the government. Also present at the meeting were senior state ministers, including Suresh Kumar Khanna, Surya Pratap Shahi, Swatantra Dev Singh, and Baldev Singh Aulakh, along with Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh and senior officials from various departments.