Despite challenges, mango growers deliver remarkable results using technology: CM Yogi

Lucknow, July 4: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday praised the remarkable efforts of fruit growers in Uttar Pradesh, stating that despite the challenges posed by climate change and global warming, they have achieved impressive results through the use of technology.

The varieties of mangoes weighing between 2.5 and 3 kilograms are truly remarkable. Not only are they exceptional in taste, but they are also boosting Uttar Pradesh’s presence in international markets, he added.

The CM inaugurated the three-day ‘Uttar Pradesh Mango Festival 2025’ at Awadh Shilp Gram, Awadh Vihar Yojana, Sector 9, in Lucknow. During this, the CM said, “The Mango Festival is not just a way to increase farmers’ income, but also a strong step towards fulfilling Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a self-reliant and developed India.”

The event featured an exhibition of over 800 varieties of mangoes selected from orchards across the country, drawing everyone’s attention. CM Yogi informed that to promote mango production globally, four modern pack houses have been set up in Lucknow, Amroha, Saharanpur, and Varanasi. These facilities help farmers understand the quality standards, varieties, and export requirements of mangoes.

He further said that the Mango Festival not only boosts mango production and export but also builds confidence among fruit growers about horticultural crops, modern farming techniques, and global markets. He emphasized that the double-engine government’s double-engine policy has significantly boosted the export of horticultural crops. During the festival, mangoes were shipped by air cargo to two countries, and the government’s subsidy helped farmers get better prices for their produce.

The Chief Minister visited all the stalls at the festival and learned about various mango varieties like Lucknow’s Dussehri, Varanasi’s Langda, Gorakhpur’s Gaurjeet, Basti’s Amrapali, and Ratol from Meerut and Baghpat. He praised the hard work of fruit growers and said that their dedication and use of modern techniques have made Uttar Pradesh a hub for horticulture.

“Our government has supported fruit growers through subsidies, training, and better market access, which has helped multiply their income,” he added.

He further said that earlier, agriculture and horticulture contributed about 25–30% to Uttar Pradesh’s GDP. “Today, due to the government’s strong policies, the sector has grown even more. Projects like Arjun Sahayak, Bansagar, and the Saryu Canal have solved water issues in Bundelkhand and eastern UP. As a result, where farmers earlier grew only one or two crops, they are now growing three.” Referring to his visits to Hardoi, Kanpur, and Auraiya, he said that maize farming is now helping farmers earn a net profit of Rs 1 lakh per acre.

CM Yogi said that the government has promoted modern farming techniques through the establishment of Krishi Vigyan Kendras and Centers of Excellence. The use of new seeds and advanced technologies in sugarcane, maize, and horticultural crops is helping farmers increase their income.

He shared that in 2017, planting 5 crore saplings was a major challenge. However, on July 9, 2025, under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, the state will plant 50 crore saplings. “This reflects Uttar Pradesh’s progress and its commitment to the environment,” he added.

Notably, the Mango Festival will also feature seminars, experience-sharing by progressive farmers, and buyer-seller meets. CM Yogi suggested that such events should be held at the commissionerate level as well, so that local fruit growers can showcase and sell their produce.

He encouraged fruit growers to adopt food processing along with growing turmeric, ginger, and other horticultural crops to further increase their income. He said the festival serves as an excellent platform to take the achievements of farmers, fruit growers, and the state of Uttar Pradesh to the global stage.

During the event, CM Yogi honored progressive fruit growers and exporters with certificates of appreciation and saplings. He also released a souvenir of the festival. Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi, Horticulture Minister Dinesh Pratap Singh, Minister of State for Agriculture Baldev Singh Aulakh, Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh, Additional Chief Secretary B.L. Meena, and many other officials and public representatives were present on the occasion.