Catalyzing Innovation: The IT & ITES Landscape in Uttar Pradesh
Transforming Uttar Pradesh into a Premier Destination for IT Innovation
The Government of Uttar Pradesh has recognized the significance of the Information Technology (IT) and Information Technology Enabled Services (ITeS) sectors in driving economic growth and job creation. To foster a conducive environment for investment and innovation, several policies and schemes have been established. This article outlines the key initiatives aimed at enhancing the IT ecosystem in the state.
Uttar Pradesh IT & ITeS Policy 2022:
The Uttar Pradesh IT & ITeS Policy 2022 is designed to create a robust framework that supports the growth of IT and ITeS industries. This policy focuses on attracting investments, promoting entrepreneurship, and enhancing infrastructure.
Key Features:
- Interest Subsidy: A 5% interest subsidy per annum for a period of up to seven years for new IT/ITeS units.
- Stamp Duty Exemption: 100% exemption on stamp duty for purchasing or leasing land and office space designated for IT/ITeS use, provided operations commence within three years.
- Electricity Duty Reimbursement: Full reimbursement of electricity duty for new IT/ITeS units for ten years post-commercial operation commencement.
- Employee Provident Fund (EPF) Grant: 100% reimbursement of EPF contributions for eligible IT/ITeS professionals from Uttar Pradesh who are continuously employed for one year.
- Recruitment Assistance: Financial support of INR 20,000 per employee hired from Tier-II and Tier-III cities, contingent upon maintaining employment for at least six months.
- Patent Filing Subsidy: Up to 100% reimbursement of actual patent filing costs for awarded patents.
Infrastructure Development Initiatives:
To bolster the IT sector, the government has initiated several infrastructure projects:
- Data Centers: The establishment of North India's first hyper-scale data center, Yotta D1, in Greater Noida, signals UP's commitment to becoming a data hub. Additional data centers with a combined capacity of 636 MW are under development.
- STPI Parks: Six Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) are operational in Noida, Meerut, Lucknow, Kanpur, Prayagraj, and Agra, with four more parks planned in Varanasi, Bareilly, Panki (Kanpur), and Gorakhpur.
Focus on Artificial Intelligence:
Recognizing the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Uttar Pradesh aims to establish the country’s first AI city in Lucknow. This initiative is intended to nurture an AI ecosystem that fosters innovation and technological advancement within the state.
Vocational Education and Skill Development:
The government has invested heavily in vocational education to ensure a skilled workforce for the IT sector. With over 3,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and more than 500 training partners under the Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Mission (UPSDM), the state is focused on enhancing employability among its youth.
The policies and schemes implemented by the Government of Uttar Pradesh reflect a comprehensive strategy to enhance the state's IT and ITeS landscape. By offering financial incentives, developing infrastructure, promoting skill development, and focusing on emerging technologies like AI, Uttar Pradesh is positioning itself as a key player in India’s digital economy. These initiatives not only aim to attract investments but also strive to create sustainable job opportunities for its citizens.