Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday inaugurated Ashok Leyland’s Electric Vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant in Lucknow, marking a significant milestone in Uttar Pradesh’s industrial and electric mobility landscape. Union Heavy Industries Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy was also present at the inauguration.
Sharing details of the event on his X account, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the new Ashok Leyland manufacturing facility for electric vehicles would provide fresh momentum to Uttar Pradesh’s industrial development. He described the project as a strong symbol of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision and commitment towards environmental protection, sustainable development, and climate action.
The Chief Minister said the EV plant aligns with the national objectives of Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, and would play a key role in advancing domestic manufacturing and self-reliance. He congratulated the Hinduja Group on the project and extended greetings to all dignitaries present at the event.
Addressing the gathering, Yogi Adityanath said the investment reflects Uttar Pradesh’s transformation under the BJP-led government. He stated that before 2017, the state faced lawlessness and an unfavourable investment climate, leading to investor exits. Since 2017, the government has worked to restore confidence and convert the state’s potential into tangible outcomes, he said.
He added that Uttar Pradesh has now emerged as a preferred destination for domestic and global investors, supported by an “Industry First” and “Investor First” approach, and cited the past eight and a half years as a period of notable transformation.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh termed the inauguration a proud moment for Lucknow and Uttar Pradesh, stating that the modern EV facility would mark a milestone in the state’s industrial journey. He said a state once associated with crime and backwardness is now witnessing the regular establishment of industries.
Rajnath Singh further noted that Uttar Pradesh has also become a hub for strategic and national security-related projects, with the establishment of a defence industrial corridor in the state.
The Ashok Leyland EV plant is expected to boost electric mobility, industrial growth, and employment generation in the region, while supporting India’s clean energy transition and manufacturing ambitions.
