CM Yogi Adityanath makes a Vocal For Local appeal ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi.. (Img: X)
Lucknow: Ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has made a strong appeal to people to embrace Vocal For Local and turn it into a regular habit rather than treating it as a campaign slogan.
In the latest edition of his Yogi Ki Pati, the Chief Minister connected the festive season with social unity, environmental awareness, traditional skills and the economic importance of choosing locally made products.
Yogi Adityanath highlighted the deeper symbolism associated with Lord Ganesha and said the festival carries lessons that extend beyond religious celebrations.
The elephant head is associated with forests and wildlife, while the mouse represents agriculture and fertility. The large ears of Lord Ganesha are also seen as a reminder to listen carefully to nature.
The traditional use of 21 different leaves, known as Ekavimshati Patra, during Ganesh worship was cited as another example of the connection between Indian traditions, medicinal plants and biodiversity conservation.
The Chief Minister also recalled how Lokmanya Tilak transformed Ganesh Utsav into a public celebration, turning religious participation into a means of building social unity and collective strength.
Yogi Adityanath linked the message of Ganesh Chaturthi with Vishwakarma Jayanti, which will be observed on September 17. He said the festival dedicated to Lord Vishwakarma highlights the importance of craftsmanship, technology, skills and entrepreneurship.
According to the Chief Minister, the states development cannot depend only on expressways, airports, industrial areas and modern infrastructure. Human capital, skilled workers, innovative ideas and successful local businesses are equally important for building a stronger economy.
The Uttar Pradesh government has introduced several programmes aimed at strengthening artisans, craftsmen, young entrepreneurs and small businesses.
These include the Vishwakarma Shram Samman Yojana, One District One Product initiative, Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Mission and Mukhyamantri Yuva Udyami Vikas Abhiyan.
The programmes are designed to improve access to skills, modern tools, financial support and wider markets. The Chief Minister said greater demand for locally produced goods can directly benefit artisans and entrepreneurs while creating employment opportunities within the state.
The central message is simple: Vocal For Local should become a part of daily consumer behaviour. By purchasing locally made products, supporting traditional craftsmen and promoting products originating from Uttar Pradesh, consumers can contribute to the states small-business ecosystem and employment generation.
The appeal comes at a time when the government is increasingly linking local manufacturing, entrepreneurship and traditional skills with its broader vision of a developed Uttar Pradesh.
The Vocal For Local push goes beyond festival celebrations. For Uttar Pradesh, it is also about strengthening the connection between consumers, artisans, entrepreneurs and local industries.
With Ganesh Chaturthi and Vishwakarma Jayanti providing the immediate backdrop, the Chief Ministers message seeks to turn cultural traditions into greater economic participation and support for local businesses.
