Qais
Lucknow is fast becoming a prominent business hub in the northern region of India. As Lucknow is located in the central Uttar Pradesh, it is well connected with all the major cities. Being the the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, it has always been the center of activity – be it political or business oriented. Kanpur, which used to be the industrial hub a few decades ago, is just 2 hours away. Therefore, the city’s strategic location, young and employable population, skilled workforce, and favorable business environment have attracted a number of investors to set up industries. Meanwhile, the start up culture has also developed in the city to boost new businesses and existing SMEs. Let’s look into the leading businesses in Lucknow, highlighting key industry verticals and exporters in Lucknow.
Industry Verticals of Leading Businesses in Lucknow
- Manufacturing: Lucknow has a history of industrial areas such as Talkatora (Rajajipuram), Chinhat, Transport Nagar-Kanpur Road and the earliest being Aishbagh which was focused on Timber work. Apart from that, Lucknow has had many large and small manufacturing units, including:
- Chikankari and Chikan garments (Mostly functioning as clusters of Self Help groups)
- Automobiles (Scooters India)
- Automotive components (Scooters India, Tata Motors)
- Electrical and Industrial Components (Acme Pumps, PTC Industries)
- Packaging Material (Alvi Packaging)
- IT and ITES: Lucknow has witnessed a noticeable growth in the IT and ITES sector, with many companies setting up their operations in the city. Some notable players include:
- Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)
- HCL Technologies
- Pharmaceuticals: The city of Lucknow has a strong presence of pharmaceutical companies, including:
- Manufacturing of Lab Equipment and Medical Devices (Mehrotra Biotech)
- Agriculture and Allied Industries: Being an agricultural hub, Lucknow has numerous businesses engaged in:
- Mango Exports
- Dairy products (Amul, Gyan, Parag)
- Health Snacks and Food Supplements (Organic India, Keeros Superfoods)
- Food grains trading and processing
- Real Estate: Lucknow’s Real Estate sector has seen an exponential growth in the last decade. Some of the big names from Lucknow in the Real Estate are:
- Eldeco
- Halwasiya
- Omaxe
- Rohtas
- Sahu
- Shalimar
Lucknow Exports
- Chikan Exporters: Lucknow is a significant center for export of Chikan Garments with Chikankari embroidery with companies like: Ada Chikan, Almas Chikan, MLK Exports, Nazrana Chikan, Paramount Chikan.
- Handicraft Exporters: Lucknow is famous for its handicrafts. Apart from Chikankari, Mukesh and Zardozi work has been especially in demand for Bridal Wear.
Government Initiatives to Promote Business in Uttar Pradesh
The government of Uttar Pradesh has been taking several initiatives to promote the business sector in the state. With an intent to encourage manufacturing, trade and exports from Lucknow, some of the key initiatives include:
- Giving land subsidies to set up industries
- Creation of Special Economic Zones (SEZ)
- Connecting the SEZ with highways and developing satellite townships and amenities around them
- Infrastructure Development such as Highways, Metrorail, New Airport Terminals
- Uttar Pradesh Industrial Development Policy (2022): Aims to promote industrial growth, employment, and exports in the state.
- U.P. State Industrial Development Authority (UPSIDA): Established to facilitate industrial development, provide infrastructure, and support entrepreneurs.
- Export Promotion Councils: Set up to promote exports from Lucknow and provide support to exporters.
Conclusion
Lucknow’s business ecosystem is thriving, with a diverse range of industries and exporters contributing to the city’s economic growth. The government’s initiatives and support have created a favorable environment for businesses to flourish. As the city continues to grow and develop, it is likely to attract more investments, industries, and exporters, cementing its position as a leading business hub in northern India.
