Uttar Pradesh Diwas 2026: Celebrating ‘Viksit Bharat-Viksit Uttar Pradesh’

Uttar Pradesh will mark its glorious foundation day on 24 January with grand celebrations under the theme ‘Viksit Bharat-Viksit Uttar Pradesh’. This year, the state is set to host a three-day public festival from 24 to 26 January, highlighting the journey of progress, cultural richness, and development under the vision of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

CM Yogi has emphasized that Uttar Pradesh Diwas-2026 should transcend being a mere government ceremony. The event aims to engage every citizen, showcasing the state’s cultural diversity, culinary heritage, and socio-economic progress. Through this public participation, UP’s identity will be strengthened nationally and internationally.

The main ceremony will take place at the Rashtra Prerna Sthal in Lucknow, inaugurated by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah. Distinguished guests, public representatives, and citizens from across the state will participate. The program will also be broadcast live on Doordarshan, ensuring state-wide access.

One of the highlights of UP Diwas-2026 is the ‘One District-One Cuisine’ (ODOC) scheme. Each district will feature a signature traditional dish, bringing together the state’s culinary diversity in a single venue. This initiative not only celebrates Uttar Pradesh’s food heritage but also strengthens the cultural identity of its districts, making cuisine a symbol of the state’s pride.

Alongside ODOC, products developed by artisans under the ‘One District-One Product’ (ODOP) scheme will be displayed and sold during the festival. Geographical Indication (GI) tag products will also be highlighted in trade shows, promoting local craftsmanship and supporting small businesses across the state.

The UP Diwas celebrations will also recognize outstanding individuals through the Uttar Pradesh Gaurav Samman 2025-26. This year, five prominent personalities excelling in education, literature, agriculture, women empowerment, and space science will be honored. Additionally, districts excelling under the Mukhyamantri Yuva Udyami Vikas Abhiyan will receive awards, encouraging youth entrepreneurship.

Launch of Key Initiatives

During the celebrations, CM Yogi will officially launch the ODOC scheme and inaugurate the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Employment and Industrial Zone Scheme, reinforcing the state’s focus on development, employment, and industrial growth.

Uttar Pradesh Diwas-2026 will feature special exhibitions and craft fairs under the theme ‘Viksit Bharat-Viksit Uttar Pradesh’, showcasing progress in infrastructure, industry, agriculture, women empowerment, and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. Folk, classical, and contemporary performances will highlight the state’s rich artistic heritage. Winners from district-level competitions will be honored, emphasizing public participation and talent recognition.

Special exhibitions will also focus on Mission Shakti, innovation, and the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, celebrating the state’s achievements and national pride.

For the first time, UP Diwas-2026 celebrations will extend beyond India. Programs will be organized at Lok Bhavans in various states and at Indian embassies in Fiji, Mauritius, Maldives, Singapore, and Thailand. Residents of Uttar Pradesh living abroad will be honored, strengthening the state’s cultural and developmental identity globally.

CM Yogi has directed that the festival should maximize public engagement, showcasing culture, cuisine, crafts, and development achievements. The Tourism, Art & Culture Department, in collaboration with the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA), has completed preparations to ensure a grand, disciplined, and dignified celebration.

The event will not only celebrate Uttar Pradesh’s rich heritage but also strengthen the state’s resolve for ‘Viksit Bharat-Viksit Uttar Pradesh’, creating pride and inspiration for all residents.

The celebration will witness the presence of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Governor Anandiben Patel, State BJP President Pankaj Chaudhary, Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh, and other eminent guests. Representatives from various districts, Rajya Sabha members, MLAs, and the Mayor of Lucknow will also participate, emphasizing the event’s inclusive and high-profile nature.