Karnataka Government Rejects Claims of Firms Exiting Due to Infrastructure Deficiencies
In a robust defense of the state's industrial climate, the Karnataka government on Tuesday firmly asserted that no company has departed the state because of inadequate infrastructure. This statement came in response to opposition concerns raised in the legislative council about businesses relocating elsewhere.
Minister's Rebuttal to Opposition Allegations
Urban Development Minister Byrathi Suresh, replying on behalf of Industries Minister MB Patil, emphasized that Karnataka remains a premier investment destination. He directly addressed criticism from BJP member N Ravi Kumar, who pointed to Toyota Kirloskar Motor's decision to establish a new electric vehicle manufacturing unit in Maharashtra instead of expanding in Karnataka, where it has an existing base in Bidadi.
Suresh clarified, "Toyota's decision was primarily driven by their strategic intent to expand their footprint outside Karnataka. Importantly, their largest manufacturing plant continues to operate in Bidadi." He further stated that neither the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB) nor the state government played any role in influencing the company's choice.
Substantial Investment and Employment Figures Cited
To bolster the government's position, Suresh presented compelling data. He revealed that over the past three years, the high-level clearance committee has approved 2,028 projects with a total investment value of Rs 5.1 lakh crore, which are projected to create employment for over one lakh people.
Additionally, he noted that KIADB has allocated 2,954 acres of land to 1,440 firms during the same period, underscoring the state's active engagement in facilitating industrial growth.
Addressing Concerns Over Industrial Parks
Congress member Umashree raised a separate issue, highlighting that many newly announced KIADB industrial parks are struggling to attract industries due to insufficient infrastructure. In response, Suresh defended the government's approach, explaining that these projects are being implemented in a phased manner.
"While some parks are nearing completion, others are currently in progress or yet to commence. However, all developments will be carried out systematically in stages," he assured.
Plans for Major Industrial Townships Unveiled
The government also outlined ambitious plans for large-scale industrial townships. The Tumakuru industrial township is set to be developed in three phases across approximately 8,313 acres, with expectations to generate around 83,000 jobs.
Similarly, the Dharwad township, spanning 3,000 acres, will be constructed in partnership with the central government and is anticipated to provide employment for about 75,000 people.
This comprehensive response aims to reinforce Karnataka's commitment to maintaining its status as a top investment hub, despite ongoing political debates over infrastructure and industrial retention.
