Why in the News?

• The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh launched the 'UP-AGREES' and 'AI Pragya' programmes in Lucknow in the presence of the World Bank President.

Key Points:

About UP-AGREES:

⇒ It will be implemented in 28 districts of the Purvanchal and Bundelkhand regions of Uttar Pradesh.

⇒ Its main objective is to increase agricultural productivity, ensure conservation of natural resources, and increase the income of farmers.

⇒ The Rs 3,900 crore project includes a Rs 2,737 crore World Bank loan and RS 1,166 crore from the state government.

⇒ The 6-year loan, repayable over 35 years at 1.23% interest, will benefit 10 lakh farmers, 30% of them women.

⇒ The project will link 10,000 women producer groups and send 500 farmers abroad for advanced training.

AI Pragya Program:

⇒ The main objective of the 'AI Pragya' program is to establish Uttar Pradesh as a leading state in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies.

⇒ Under this program, 10 lakh youth will be provided training and certification in cutting-edge technologies like AI, machine learning, data analytics, and cybersecurity.

⇒ This initiative will promote AI-based startups in the state, increase employment opportunities, and create a digitally skilled workforce.

⇒ The programme will be conducted in collaboration with various state departments like Education, Health, Agriculture, Revenue, and  Secretariat Administration.

 World Bank :

• About:  
  • It was established in 1944 as the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) along with the IMF. The IBRD later became the World Bank. 
  • The World Bank Group is a unique global partnership of five institutions working to advance lasting solutions that reduce poverty and build shared prosperity in developing countries. 
  • The World Bank is one of the specialized agencies of the United Nations. 
• Member:  
  • 189 countries are its members. 
  • India is also its member. 
• Five Development Institutions:  
  • International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) 
  • International Development Association (IDA) 
  • International Finance Corporation (IFC) 
  • Multilateral Guarantee Agency (MIGA) 
  • International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID)  
  •  India is not a member of ICSID.