Sources told Business Today TV that the Uttar Pradesh government has sought financial assistance from the Center to set up three research centers in Lucknow. These proposed centers include a solar energy research centre, an environmental studies center and an advanced technology research centre. According to an official, the initiative aims to strengthen indigenous research, promote self-reliance in R&D and create employment opportunities.
To facilitate this development, the state government has asked the Center to reconsider the allocation of funds under the scheme for financial assistance to the states. Under this scheme, the Center allocated Rs 9,866 crore for the financial year 2024-2025, which is significantly less than the Rs 17,939 crore allocated last year. Uttar Pradesh has sought an increase in this provision for FY25 and FY26, and has proposed releasing funds in two 50 per cent installments instead of four 25 per cent installments for centrally sponsored schemes to speed up project implementation.
A proposal of Rs 1,988 crore for allocation for railways has also been sent to the Centre. Apart from this, Rs 8,400 crore is also required for the construction of ROB 140 (Road Over Bridge), which may be allocated in the upcoming 26th Union Budget.
Lucknow already hosts several prominent research institutes such as Indian Sugarcane Research Institute, Central Pharmaceutical Research Institute and National Botanical Research Institute. These centers make significant contributions to areas such as agriculture, healthcare and environmental science, address state-specific challenges, promote economic growth and drive sustainable development.
The proposed centers in Lucknow will further strengthen the state's research capabilities, particularly in renewable energy, environmental sustainability and high technology, in line with the broader objectives of innovation and self-reliance.