UP is seeking the Centre’s support to build three research centers in Lucknow

The Uttar Pradesh government has sought financial support from the Center to set up three research centers in Lucknow, sources told Business Today TV. These proposed centers include the Solar Energy Research Center, the Environmental Studies Center, and the Advanced Technology Research Center. According to an official, the initiative aims to promote local research, promote self-reliance in research and development, and create job opportunities.

To facilitate this development, the state government has also urged the Center to reconsider the allocation of funding under the financial assistance scheme to the states. The Center has allocated Rs 9,866 crore for the financial year 2024-25 under this scheme, which is much less than the Rs 17,939 crore that was allocated last year. Uttar Pradesh has requested an increase in this allocation for FY25 and FY26, and proposed to release funds for centrally sponsored schemes in two 50 per cent instalments instead of four 25 per cent instalments to speed up project implementation.

A proposal worth Rs 1,988 crore has also been sent to the Center for allocation to railways. Apart from this, Rs 8,400 crore is also needed for the construction of 140 ROBs (Road Over Bridge), which can be allocated from the upcoming Union Budget FY26.

Lucknow already hosts several prominent research institutions, such as the Indian Sugarcane Research Institute, the Central Drug Research Institute, and the National Plant Research Institute. These centers contribute significantly to areas such as agriculture, healthcare, and environmental sciences, addressing country-specific challenges, promoting economic growth, and advancing sustainable development.

The proposed centers in Lucknow will enhance the state’s research capabilities, particularly in renewable energy, environmental sustainability, and advanced technology, in line with the broader goals of innovation and self-reliance.