Lucknow: The final day of the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Expo (UPITEX) 2026, held from January 23 to 27 at Indira Gandhi Pratishthan, concluded with a strong focus on skill development as a catalyst for industrial growth in the state. Policymakers, industry leaders, academicians, and youth came together to deliberate on preparing Uttar Pradesh’s workforce to meet global standards and emerging industry needs.
According to the organizers, the five-day expo attracted over 1.5 lakh visitors and generated business inquiries worth nearly ₹425 crore, reflecting growing interest in trade, manufacturing, and innovation across sectors. Alongside business engagements, visitors explored a wide range of products from different states, particularly Madhya Pradesh, and sampled regional cuisines that added cultural vibrancy to the event.
On the concluding day, a conference on “Skilling Uttar Pradesh for Global Competitiveness” was organized. The conference was attended by Dr. Hari Om, IAS, Principal Secretary, Vocational Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of Uttar Pradesh; Pulkit Khare, IAS, Mission Director, Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Mission (UPSDM); Priya Singh, PCS, Additional Mission Director, UPSDM; Mayank Gangwar, Joint Director, UPSDM; Ajay Jain, Managing Director, Microlit; Kavita Nigam, Chief Human Resources Officer, Karam Safety Private Limited; Dr. Lata Bajpai Singh, Assistant Professor and Assistant Coordinator, University Placement Cell, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow; and Kaushik Phuloria, Deputy Resident Director, PHDCCI UP State Chapter.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Hari Om said India is steadily progressing towards becoming a major global economy, but development must keep pace with its rapidly growing population. He urged the youth to reflect on why India, despite being a large economy, is still categorized as a developing nation. Highlighting the demographic advantage of a young workforce, he said that skilled youth can play a decisive role in national development.
Dr. Hari Om emphasized that skills, not just academic knowledge, are essential for career growth. He added that industries too must recognize the importance of skilled manpower, warning that without trained workers, industries risk stagnation or closure. He encouraged industries to collaborate with the government by providing on-the-job training at their facilities, with training costs supported by the government. He also stressed the importance of self-motivation and a strong inner drive to improve one’s life.
UPSDM Mission Director Pulkit Khare highlighted that the Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Mission offers free online and offline training programs tailored to industry requirements. Youth can choose courses based on their interests and receive government-recognized certificates, enabling them to participate in job fairs and employment drives. He added that skilling is essential to keep any sector sustainable and urged industries to partner with UPSDM as training partners. Under the model, industries are reimbursed for training costs if at least 80 percent of trained candidates are placed. He also advised youth to strengthen their soft skills and become familiar with AI tools relevant to their fields.
Industry representatives echoed similar views. Kavita Nigam encouraged students to align their skills with industry expectations, noting that employment opportunities are increasingly driven by practical competencies rather than degrees alone.
Beyond discussions, the expo offered visitors a rich cultural and culinary experience. Awadhi delicacies such as seekh kebabs, korma, and nihari, along with Rajasthani favorites like dal baati churma and mirch vada, were major attractions. The Madhya Pradesh government’s MSME pavilion highlighted millet-based products, promoting nutrition and sustainable entrepreneurship. Santosh Choubey of Raman Greens, Bhopal, showcased 23 varieties of millet cookies and snacks, while Rishit Agrawal of Bananify, Indore, presented raw banana powder suitable for all age groups.
UPITEX 2026 concluded on a high note, reinforcing the message that skilled manpower is the backbone of industrial growth and that Uttar Pradesh is steadily positioning itself as a hub of talent, innovation, and enterprise.
