LUCKNOW: In a powerful assertion of his government’s commitment to law, order, and integrity, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reiterated that the state has firmly established a “zero-tolerance regime” against crime and corruption. Speaking at the 36th Foundation Day of the Gorakhpur Industrial Development Authority (GIDA), the Chief Minister said that this approach is more than just a policy, it is a feeling that guides the state’s administration.
“Zero tolerance is not merely a slogan; it is an emotion that has been enforced with unwavering firmness,” Yogi Adityanath remarked, reflecting on Uttar Pradesh’s transformation over the years. He noted that the days when the mafia dictated terms are now history, as firm and consistent action by the government has compelled them into silence. Unki pitai itni hui ki ab chup ho gaye hain (they have been punished so much that now they remain silent).”
The Chief Minister emphasized that Uttar Pradesh today provides a safe and orderly environment where “goonda tax, mafia influence, and misuse of power” no longer exist. Once known for unrest and lawlessness, the state, he said, has transformed into a “land of festivals”, symbolising peace, cultural energy, and growing public trust in governance.
Industrial Growth and Investment Push
At the event, Yogi Adityanath inaugurated and laid the foundation for 114 development projects valued at Rs 408 crore across different GIDA sectors. He also presented allotment certificates to five investors as part of 115 industrial plots proposed for investments totaling Rs 6,139 crore. Additionally, certificates were handed to youths trained under skill development initiatives at the NIELIT campus. The Chief Minister also inaugurated the three-day UP State Trade Show, underlining the region’s emergence as a new industrial hub.
Highlighting the rapid pace of industrialisation, he said Uttar Pradesh has already grounded investment proposals worth Rs 15 lakh crore out of Rs 45 lakh crore received during the Global Investors Summit. He announced that projects worth Rs 5 lakh crore are set to take shape this December, reflecting the state’s rapid pace of development. The Chief Minister added that thousands of young people are now finding jobs within their own districts, a sign of balanced regional growth. GIDA alone, he highlighted, has created around 40,000 employment opportunities.
From Neglect to Progress: GIDA’s Journey
Reflecting on GIDA’s initial struggles, the Chief Minister Yogi noted that from 1989 to 1998, industrial growth in the region had come to a standstill, hindered by unrest, frequent violence, and lack of administrative will. It was only after the government’s focus on law and order and policy-driven governance that Gorakhpur began witnessing industrial revival.
Yogi emphasized that Uttar Pradesh is no longer a “BIMARU state” a term once used for economically backward regions but a land of “unlimited potential.” He noted that Uttar Pradesh is rapidly becoming an economic powerhouse, supported by its vast rail network, growing number of metro cities, numerous operational airports, and the soon-to-be-launched Jewar International Airport.
Taking a swipe at previous governments, the Chief Minister accused them of fostering division, appeasement, and lawlessness. He stated that those who once encroached on farmers’ and traders’ lands have been dealt with firmly, and their confiscated properties are now being used to set up industries. He further added that the current administration ensures fair compensation to farmers during land acquisition, ensuring that no poor family faces injustice. “If a project requires land, the farmer must be compensated well and provided housing support,” he stated, reflecting the government’s focus on inclusive growth.
Yogi Adityanath stated that Uttar Pradesh now holds 55% of the country’s expressway network and also leads with the largest rail system, the most metro cities, and the highest number of operational airports in India. Sixteen airports are currently functional, including four international ones, while the Jewar International Airport, India’s largest, is scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also highlighted the state’s transformation into a major logistics hub, connecting industries to national and global markets through expressways, freight corridors, and upgraded airports.
The Chief Minister also linked the state’s developmental strides with its cultural resurgence. Referring to the recent hoisting of the ‘Dharm Dhwaj’ in Ayodhya by Prime Minister Modi on November 25, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the occasion brought immense joy to all followers of Sanatan Dharma.
Yogi Adityanath highlighted that eastern Uttar Pradesh, once considered backward and dominated by criminal elements, is now witnessing an industrial boom. In the past eight years, around 500 industrial units have come up in the GIDA region, attracting investments worth over Rs 11,618 crore. Global and domestic giants such as PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, Campa, CP Milk, and Keyaan Industries have set up plants here, while Reliance is preparing to establish a Campa factory in Dhuriyapar.
With projects like the Gorakhpur Link Expressway, Plastic Park, flatted factories, and new industrial clusters taking shape, GIDA is set to become a major centre for industry and employment in eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Showing his commitment to Gorakhpur’s heritage, UP CM Yogi Adityanath also announced the allotment of 10 acres of land to Gita Press, calling it a matter of pride for the city. He expressed his hope that Gorakhpur Industrial Development Authority (GIDA) will soon become a model of balanced growth.
