UP government approves major reforms in outsourcing, e-buses, exports, and higher education

In a series of landmark decisions, the Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh has introduced reforms across multiple sectors, including outsourcing, urban transport, export promotion, and higher education.

Uttar Pradesh Outsource Service Corporation to safeguard employees

In a move aimed at making outsourcing services more transparent, accountable, and employee-friendly, the government approved the formation of the Uttar Pradesh Outsource Service Corporation Limited.

The decision, taken in a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, seeks to protect the interests of outsourcing workers.

The corporation, established under Section-8 of the Companies Act, 2013, will operate as a non-profit public limited company. Outsourcing agencies will now be empaneled through a fair and transparent process via the GeM portal, rather than being directly selected by departments.

Employees will be appointed for three years with an honorarium of Rs 16,000–20,000 per month, and salaries, along with EPF and ESI contributions, will be credited directly to their bank accounts.

Finance and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Khanna said, “This step will eliminate irregularities and guarantee every employee their rightful dues.” The framework also provides social security and reservation benefits, maternity leave for women, periodic skill-enhancing training, and Rs 15,000 funeral assistance in case of death during service.

Key features of the new outsourcing system:

- Transparent agency selection via GeM portal.

- Rs 16,000–20,000 monthly honorarium for employees.

- Services for 26 days per month, with a three-year term.

- Direct salary, EPF, and ESI transfers to employees’ accounts.

- Written tests and interviews to ensure quality recruitment.

- Social security benefits including maternity leave and funeral assistance.

With this reform, the Yogi government aims to not only strengthen transparency in outsourcing but also set a new model of employment and good governance in Uttar Pradesh.

E-buses to operate under Net Cost Contract model in Lucknow and Kanpur

The government has approved the operation of electric buses on the Net Cost Contract (NCC) model in Lucknow, Kanpur, and adjoining towns. Urban Development Minister A.K. Sharma said that while 743 e-buses currently operate across 15 municipal corporations, most run under the Gross Cost Contract model.

Under the new scheme:

- 9-meter-long AC e-buses will ply on 10 routes each in Lucknow and Kanpur.

- A minimum of 10 buses will operate on each route.

- The 12-year contract includes bus procurement, infrastructure, and maintenance, handled by private operators.

- Fare and non-fare revenue will be collected by private operators, while tariffs will be fixed and revised by the government.

- The state will provide licenses, permits, electrical infrastructure, and charging facilities.

Officials said the NCC model is expected to reduce the financial burden on the exchequer while improving the quality and reliability of urban transport in key cities.

Export promotion policy 2025–30 approved

The Yogi Cabinet has approved the Export Promotion Policy 2025–30, upgrading the 2020–25 framework to make Uttar Pradesh a global export hub.

The new policy focuses on:

- Digital technology and infrastructure development.

- Financial assistance, export credit, and insurance.

- Market expansion and training programs.

The policy aims to increase the number of registered exporters by 50% by 2030 while ensuring regional balance, linking all districts with export activities.

Officials said it will boost both the quality and volume of exports, strengthening the state’s position in global markets.

Swami Shukdevanand University to be established in Shahjahanpur

The cabinet has also approved the creation of Swami Shukdevanand University in Shahjahanpur by upgrading the academic units of the Mumuksh Ashram Trust.

The trust currently operates five institutions, including Swami Shukdevanand College and Swami Shukdevanand Law College.

According to the District Magistrate’s report:

- The trust owns 21.01 acres of land, with approximately 20 acres allocated to the university.

- In the first phase, an MoU will be signed between the Higher Education Department and the Mumuksh Ashram Trust.

- Formal proceedings will then be carried out under the Uttar Pradesh State University Act, 1973.