BENGALURU: Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel HD Kumaraswamy has urged the Karnataka government to expedite land allocation for setting up a major industrial project in Mandya district.
In letters addressed to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Industries Minister MB Patil, Kumaraswamy pressed for immediate state cooperation to turn Mandya into an industrial hub.
“The Centre is ready to extend full support, but the state’s cooperation is crucial,” he told reporters after a district ‘Disha’ committee meeting on Thursday.
Kumaraswamy, who represents Mandya in Parliament, said he had written to the Deputy Commissioner over a year ago, seeking land for the proposed project.
“Officials are still searching for a suitable site,” he said, expressing concern over the delay.
“If MLAs in the district identify the land, the government should sanction acquisition and hand it over so we can together bring in industries and generate employment.”
Experts are of the opinion that developing areas like Mandya can reduce the burden on Bengaluru. Mandya is known for its fertile fields and sugarcane-based economy. While agriculture remains its backbone, the district has developed a strong base in agro-processing, sugar, jaggery and textile industries.
The textile industry is already operating in Mandya, thanks to the availability of a large and well-trained labour force and highway connectivity to both Bengaluru and Mysuru.
Now, Kumaraswamy’s proposal marks a potential turning point -- aiming to attract heavy industries, including steel and large-scale manufacturing, under the Central and State industrial growth frameworks. If approved, the initiative could diversify Mandya’s economy, bringing in new investment, infrastructure and jobs.
