Foundation Joins Leaders to Strategize Investment and Agro Export Opportunities in Uttar Pradesh
Lucknow, [September 3, 2025] — The Kartikaya Social Development Foundation (KSDF) actively participated in the high-profile Round Table Conference on “Investments and Agro Exports Opportunities in Uttar Pradesh,” organized by the Indian Chamber of Food and Agriculture (ICFA) and the newly re-constituted Uttar Pradesh State Agriculture Council (UPSAC). The landmark event, held at the Hotel Renaissance in Lucknow, brought together top policymakers, industry CEOs, agribusiness leaders, and developmental institutions to chart a strategic roadmap for agricultural growth in the state.
Focus on Bridging the Gap: Production to Export
KSDF, known for its work in science, water conservation, and agricultural development, engaged deeply in discussions centered on transforming Uttar Pradesh’s agricultural sector from a focus solely on production to one driven by value addition, processing, and exports.
Uttar Pradesh, despite being the largest producer of food grains, sugarcane, fruits, and vegetables in India, faces the challenge of low agri-exports relative to its potential. Representatives from KSDF highlighted the importance of addressing systemic issues to empower small and marginal farmers.
- Farmer-Centric Strategy: KSDF emphasized the need for enhanced farmer awareness about international market demands, quality standards, and export procedures. The Foundation advocated for grassroots capacity building initiatives.
- Technology Adoption: Discussions revolved around leveraging digital technologies to create efficient linkages between farmers and markets, streamline supply chains, and overcome the challenge of fragmented export strategies.
- Value Chain Integration: KSDF supported the Council’s focus on attracting investments in critical areas like food processing, cold chain infrastructure, and agri-tech innovations to minimize post-harvest losses and boost value-added exports.
UPSAC Reconstitution and Strategic Mandate
The conference served as the formal launch of the re-constituted UPSAC, which is set to act as the apex platform for policy advocacy, trade facilitation, and agribusiness development in the state.
The Foundation welcomed the expanded mandate of UPSAC, which aims to bridge the gap between policy and practice. The newly formed Council, chaired by industry stalwarts like Mr. Ghanshyam Khandelwal of BL Agro Industries Ltd., is poised to drive the state’s agricultural transformation.
The event also announced that AgroWorld 2025, ICFA’s flagship international agri-expo, will be held in Lucknow for the first time—a testament to the state’s growing prominence in India’s agri-economy.