Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh – Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the CM Yuva Conclave & Expo-2025 in Lucknow, hailing the CM Yuva Yojana as a transformative platform for the state’s youth. He emphasized that the scheme is turning young people from “job seekers into job creators” and laying the foundation for an “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India).
During the event, the Chief Minister highlighted the significant impact of the CM Yuva Yojana, revealing that over 68,000 young entrepreneurs have received Rs 2751 crore in interest-free and guarantee-free loans so far. The scheme also provides a 10 percent margin money facility from the state government. “Uttar Pradesh’s youth possess unlimited potential,” CM Yogi stated, “and the CM Yuva Yojana is providing them with the platform and guidance to secure a bright future.”
Key Initiatives and Directives
The Chief Minister also unveiled an exhibition showcasing franchise businesses, ‘Business on Wheels’ concepts, and other innovative business models and machinery. He further launched ‘UP Mart,’ a machinery suppliers portal, and witnessed the signing of 17 MoUs across various sectors.
In a directive aimed at maximizing the scheme’s reach and impact, CM Yogi instructed that at least 50 young individuals from every district be brought to the exhibition. This, he explained, would ensure they gain accurate information about various schemes, startup resources, and market access.
Interest-Free, Guarantee-Free Loans: A Game Changer
CM Yogi underscored the interest-free and guarantee-free structure as the most significant feature of the CM Yuva Yojana. He noted that the scheme addresses critical challenges faced by aspiring entrepreneurs, such as lack of capital, insufficient training, and guidance difficulties. “This is not just a scheme; it’s a movement,” he asserted, “an opportunity for every young person with a dream but no means.” He cited success stories shared by young entrepreneurs at the conclave, emphasizing that the government, through the CM Yuva Yojana, has helped them realize their aspirations by overcoming hurdles like capital shortage and training gaps.
Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurship
The Chief Minister urged universities and young people to “think outside the box” and break away from conventional approaches. He lamented that educational institutions have become “islands,” disconnected from society and government schemes, which often leads to youth falling into debt traps due to a lack of proper information. The CM Yuva Yojana aims to rectify this by not only inspiring self-employment but also transforming youth into job creators.
He also reiterated the government’s commitment to reviving Uttar Pradesh’s handicraft, cottage, and MSME industries. New enterprises in the state are now exempt from licensing requirements for the first 1000 days and receive a Rs 5 lakh insurance cover.
ODOP: A Cornerstone of Self-Reliant India
CM Yogi highlighted the success of the ‘One District One Product’ (ODOP) scheme, launched in 2018, as a testament to the state’s efforts in promoting traditional industries. He proudly stated that ODOP has become a national brand, boosting Uttar Pradesh’s exports from Rs 86,000 crore to over Rs 2 lakh crore. He contrasted the current scenario, where local products and ODOP gifts are prevalent during festivals, with the past dominance of Chinese goods.
He also mentioned the Vishwakarma Shram Samman Yojana, launched in 2019, which provides training, toolkits, and recognition to traditional artisans. “A society that does not honor its artisans has no future,” he affirmed.
Global Showcase of UP’s Talent
Looking ahead, CM Yogi announced that Uttar Pradesh’s products will be showcased at the International Trade Show from September 25 to 29, 2025, at the India Expo Centre in Noida. This event, which has previously attracted millions of participants, serves as a crucial platform to promote the state’s ‘Local to Global’ vision. The event was attended by MSME Minister Rakesh Sachan, Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh, Additional Chief Secretary Alok Kumar, and vice-chancellors of several universities, among other dignitaries.
