UP-AGREES and AI Pragya Programme

• 13 May 2025

Why in News? 

The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh launched the 'UP-AGREES' and 'AI Pragya' programmes in Lucknow in the presence of the World Bank President. 

 Key Points 

• About UP-AGREES: 
  • It will be implemented in 28 districts of Purvanchal and Bundelkhand regions of Uttar Pradesh. 
  • Its main objective is to increase agricultural productivity, ensure conservation of natural resources and increase the income of farmers. 
  • The Rs 3,900 crore project includes a Rs 2,737 crore World Bank loan and RS 1,166 crore from the state government. 
  • The 6-year loan, repayable over 35 years at 1.23% interest, will benefit 10 lakh farmers—30% of them women.  
  • The project will link 10,000 women producer groups and send 500 farmers abroad for advanced training. 
• AI Pragya Program: 
  • The main objective of the 'AI Pragya' program is to establish Uttar Pradesh as a leading state in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies. 
  • Under this program, 10 lakh youth will be provided training and certification in cutting-edge technologies like AI, machine learning, data analytics and cyber security. 
  • This initiative will promote AI based startups in the state, increase employment opportunities and create a digitally skilled workforce. 
  • The programme will be conducted in collaboration with various state departments like Education, Health, Agriculture, Revenue, Secretariat Administration. 

  World Bank 

• About:  
  • It was established in 1944 as the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) along with the IMF. The IBRD later became the World Bank. 
  • The World Bank Group is a unique global partnership of five institutions working to advance lasting solutions that reduce poverty and build shared prosperity in developing countries. 
  • The World Bank is one of the specialized agencies of the United Nations. 
• Member:  
  • 189 countries are its members. 
  • India is also its member. 
• Five Development Institutions:  
  • International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) 
  • International Development Association (IDA) 
  • International Finance Corporation (IFC) 
  • Multilateral Guarantee Agency (MIGA) 
  • International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID)  
  •  India is not a member of ICSID.