On July 3, 2025, the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, made a big move by transferring the Jayaprakash Narayan International Centre (JPNIC) project to the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA). The decision, announced after a cabinet meeting, also dissolved the JPNIC Society, formed during the Samajwadi Party’s rule in 2013. The project, stalled for years due to alleged corruption, will now be completed and managed by the LDA. With ₹821.74 crore already spent, the transfer aims to revive this world-class convention center in Lucknow’s Gomti Nagar. This article covers the latest updates, the project’s background, and local reactions based on recent reports and social media posts.
A New Chapter for JPNIC
The JPNIC, a dream project of former Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, was launched in 2013 to create a modern convention center in Lucknow. Spanning 18.6 acres, it includes a 2,000-seat auditorium, sports complex, museum, and parking for 750 vehicles. Work stopped in 2017 after the BJP took power, citing corruption concerns. On July 3, 2025, the UP Cabinet handed the project to the LDA, with ₹821.74 crore treated as a 30-year loan. The LDA will use private partnerships to finish and run the center, aiming for transparency and public benefit, similar to the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan model.
Why Was It Stalled?
The JPNIC faced delays after 2017 due to allegations of corruption, including contracts awarded without tenders, as noted in a CAG report. The project, costing ₹864 crore initially, was 80% complete when halted. Political tensions also played a role, with Akhilesh Yadav pushing for its completion while the BJP government investigated irregularities.
What’s in the JPNIC?
The JPNIC is designed as a world-class facility with a state-level auditorium, multipurpose sports courts, an Olympic-sized pool, and a museum dedicated to socialist leader Jayaprakash Narayan. Its 18-story building, inspired by Delhi’s India Habitat Centre, aims to boost tourism and host events.
LDA’s Role and Plans
The LDA now has full control to complete, operate, and maintain the JPNIC. It will use a public-private partnership (PPP) model, with revenue-sharing or lease agreements through a Request for Proposal (RFP) process. This approach aims to finish the project without extra government funds while ensuring long-term sustainability. The LDA plans to model it after the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan, making it a cultural and sports hub for Uttar Pradesh. The ₹821.74 crore spent will be repaid over 30 years, easing financial strain. Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak said this move clears the way for swift development. The LDA is also addressing past concerns, like construction quality, to ensure a transparent process.
Political Context
The JPNIC has been a political flashpoint. Akhilesh Yadav, who envisioned it, faced barriers accessing the site in 2024, sparking protests. The BJP’s decision to transfer it to the LDA is seen as a step to depoliticize the project while ensuring public use.
What’s Next for JPNIC?
The LDA is gearing up to restart construction, focusing on the auditorium, sports facilities, and museum. The PPP model will bring in private partners to fund and manage operations, aiming to make JPNIC self-sustaining. Locals hope it will host events, create jobs, and put Lucknow on the global map. The LDA’s track record with projects like Rashtriya Prerna Sthal gives confidence, but residents want timely completion.
