‘UP Rise’ aims to turn job seekers into job creators

Lucknow: Reinforcing chief minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision of an Aatmanirbhar Uttar Pradesh, over 1,000 students participated in ‘UP Rise 2026’ at Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University on Wednesday, showcasing innovative startup ideas and entrepreneurial talent.The event focused on encouraging youth to move beyond seeking jobs and become job creators through entrepreneurship. Content creator Himesh Madaan inaugurated the programme, which also highlighted state initiatives aimed at promoting startups, innovation and self-employment, including the Mukhyamantri Udyami Yojana, UP Startup Fund, Mukhyamantri Abhyudaya Yojana and UP Skill Mission.More than 20 startup concepts were presented, with 15 shortlisted for evaluation.

The ideas ranged from herbal pharmacy and robotics simulation to agro-tourism, biochar-based fertilisers, digital services and wastewater treatment solutions.Among the standout projects was an eco-friendly Portable Cremation System, designed to reduce wood consumption by up to 30%. However, the top honour went to Team Green Grow Organic Farming from Kushinagar, which secured first place and a cash prize of ₹25,000. The Portable Cremation System finished second.

Projects such as Raxor, a robotics simulation platform, and a greywater treatment model using agro-waste biochar also drew attention from judges and participants.