UPITS 2026: 30 MoUs Signed To Connect Women Self-Help Groups With Larger Markets

Greater Noida witnessed a significant milestone on September 28 at the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show, as 30 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed between women's self-help groups and renowned companies. The buyer-seller meeting, organized by the Uttar Pradesh Rajya Gramin Ajivika Mission, served as a platform for these women-led organizations to connect with larger markets.

During the event, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya emphasized the importance of these agreements in bridging the gap between women's businesses and markets. Maurya instructed officials to monitor and ensure successful implementation of the signed MoUs, highlighting the government's commitment to empowering women. He also revealed a groundbreaking initiative, wherein women from self-help groups will soon assist in providing uniforms for around 1.5 crore primary school children, creating new employment and business opportunities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of transforming women from "Lakhpati Didi" to "Crorepati Didi" was echoed by Maurya. The Uttar Pradesh government aims to instill self-reliance among rural women, supported by platforms that enable them to establish direct business relationships with companies. The trade show showcased success stories through a short film and featured women from various districts of the state presenting their products to potential buyers.

The program underscored the experiences of women who progressed through initiatives like Prerna Canteen and Saras Haat. Arun Kumar, Director of Uttar Pradesh Rajya Gramin Ajivika Mission, stated that lakhs of women are advancing in economic activities through the livelihood mission. The trade show provided a unique opportunity for women to connect their products with an international-level platform and potential buyers.

Testimonials from self-help group members revealed their journey towards financial stability. Saroj Devi from Azad Self-Help Group in Siddharthnagar started with a Rs. 5 lakh loan, which she repaid with government support, increasing her annual business to Rs. 6 lakh. Similarly, Kaushalya from Priyanshi Self-Help Group in Amroha and Shafika from Navi Prerna Self-Help Group achieved annual revenues of Rs.

6 lakh and Rs. 10 lakh, respectively. Saurabh Babu, Principal Secretary of the Rural Development Department, emphasized the significance of the government's initiative in facilitating MoUs between women's groups and buyer companies, enabling them to both produce and sell their products.