Uttar Pradesh witnessed a significant expansion in rural employment. Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath launched The Khadi and Village Industries Development Sustainable Employment Promotion Policy for the first time in 2017-18. The policy aims to strengthen village industries. It focuses on capital investment, technology adoption, and structured market support, while ensuring long-term livelihood generation. The policy is designed to create a conducive business ecosystem for khadi and village industries. It supports infrastructure development, promotes ease of doing business through single-window and time-bound assistance. It also encourages Make in UP, and boosts innovation. Special emphasis is placed on branding, packaging, marketing infrastructure, online sales platforms, quality control, standardisation, and research, enabling traditional industries to compete in modern markets.
Solar Charkha Distribution Boosts Khadi Production#
Under the Solar Charkha Distribution and Training Scheme, spinners are trained and provided solar charkhas free of cost. This is done through government-run production centres and registered khadi institutions. The initiative aims to increase high-quality khadi production. It also focuses on improving incomes and financial security for artisans. Over the past seven years, 5,832 spinners received solar charkhas, generating employment for 11,664 individuals directly and indirectly. In 2025 – 26, an additional 1,000 solar charkhas will be distributed. This will further strengthen rural livelihoods.
Dona-Pattal Machine Scheme Expands Rural Jobs#
The government implemented Dona making machines distribution scheme to support economically weaker sections, unemployed youth, and traditional artisans. Between 2018-19 and 2024-25, 2,029 beneficiaries received free toolkits. It resulted in giving employment to 6,087 people. In the current financial year 2025- 26, 580 beneficiaries will be supported. It will further create employment for 1,740 individuals across rural Uttar Pradesh.
Popcorn Making Units Empower Marginalised Communities#
The Popcorn Making Machine Distribution Programme was launched in 2021- 22. It aims to empower members of the Bhurji community and other vulnerable groups. So far, 2,024 beneficiaries have received free machines. It generated livelihoods for 6,072 people. In 2025- 26, 750 new beneficiaries will be covered, with employment generation projected for 2,250 individuals.
Tulsi Mala Making Technology Introduced in Mathura#
In a landmark initiative under the Rural Technology Group (RUTKG) Mission, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi developed a Tulsi Mala Making Machine. Recognising the availability of raw material in Mathura – Vrindavan, the Uttar Pradesh government distributed 195 machines free of cost in 2024-25. It created new income opportunities rooted in local resources and religious tourism.
Gramodyog Samadhan Cell Improves Ease of Entrepreneurship#
To address challenges faced by entrepreneurs at the grassroots level, the Khadi and Village Industries Department has established a Gramodyog Samadhan Cell. The cell is established at the headquarters, along with help desks at district offices. A dedicated web portal and mobile application, is available on the Play Store. It allows entrepreneurs to resolve issues related to enterprise setup efficiently.
Impact of UP Government’s Village Industry Initiatives#
These initiatives have significantly strengthened rural employment, reduced migration, and revived traditional skills through technology integration. By combining policy support, innovation, digital tools, and market access, the Uttar Pradesh government has created a scalable model for sustainable rural development. The Khadi and Village Industries policy continues to play a critical role in promoting inclusive growth, empowering artisans, and building resilient rural economies across the state.
Courtesy: Information Department, Gautam Buddha Nagar
Clear Cut Livelihood Desk
New Delhi, UPDATED: Dec 18, 2025 02: IST
Written By: Nidhi Chandrikapure
