Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy Advocates for Rapid Progress on ARAI Testing Centre in Mandya
Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries, HD Kumaraswamy, has issued a strong call for accelerated efforts to establish the prestigious Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) testing centre in Mandya. Speaking at the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meeting on Monday, Kumaraswamy emphasized that this project holds transformative potential for the district and the entire state of Karnataka.
Urgent Action Required to Secure Project
Kumaraswamy, who represents the Mandya Lok Sabha constituency, stressed the critical need to avoid delays. He proposed that the foundation stone for the ARAI centre should be laid as early as May, underscoring the urgency of the matter. "Time should not be wasted on this crucial initiative," he stated, highlighting the competitive landscape where several states are vying to host such a facility.
"If we miss this opportunity, it will be a major loss for the district. This project will shape the future of Mandya and benefit the next generation," Kumaraswamy declared. He urged all stakeholders, including political parties, to set aside differences and collaborate collectively to ensure the project's success.
Project Details and Economic Impact
The minister revealed that the proposal for the ARAI centre is slated to be presented before the Union cabinet within a week. Initially allocated Rs 500 crore in the previous budget, the project cost has now escalated to an estimated Rs 750 crore, with total investments potentially reaching Rs 1,000 crore in the coming years.
The economic benefits are substantial:
- Direct employment generation for at least 25,000 youth
- Boost to local infrastructure and development
- Enhanced positioning of Mandya as a hub for automotive research
Land Requirements and Government Cooperation
Kumaraswamy emphasized the necessity for additional land beyond the currently identified 105 acres. He called on the state government to provide full cooperation, noting that the project cannot advance without its support. "The state government's involvement is crucial for the seamless execution of this initiative," he added.
The minister assured that his ministry is fully committed to implementing the project in Mandya and confirmed that officials are already actively working towards this goal. He advised Mandya MLA Ganiga Ravi to serve as a liaison between the Union and state governments, facilitating coordination and keeping political differences aside.
Broader Development Initiatives
During the DISHA meeting, officials provided updates on various development measures, including progress in drinking water supply, welfare schemes, and infrastructure projects such as foot overbridges along the Bengaluru-Mysuru National Highway. Kumaraswamy urged officers to conduct regular village visits to assess ground realities and ensure the effective implementation of government schemes.
The establishment of the ARAI testing centre is poised to not only elevate Mandya's economic profile but also contribute significantly to India's automotive research capabilities, making it a landmark project for regional and national development.
