LUCKNOW, Oct. 7 -- Calling traders a critical pillar of Uttar Pradesh's economy, deputy chief minister Brajesh Pathak on Tuesday said the state government would ensure that businessmen could operate and expand their establishments without fear and warned of strict action against anyone threatening traders or damaging their properties.

Addressing the Prantiya Vyapari Sammelan organised by the Sampoorna Uttar Pradesh Udyog Vyapar Mandal in Lucknow, Pathak said a secure business environment, improved law and order and transparent policies were essential to sustaining investment, trade and employment in the state.

He said Uttar Pradesh had enormous potential in trade and industry and urged the business community to play a greater role in ma...