Mandya: Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy has announced that efforts to bring industries to the Mandya Lok Sabha constituency in Karnataka are progressing steadily, with plans underway to establish an Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) testing centre in the district.
Speaking at a public programme after laying the foundation stone for a ₹14-crore indoor sports complex at VC Farm in Mandya, the Union Minister said that the process to set up the ARAI testing facility has already begun. He added that once the formal land allotment letter is received, a team of experts from the Centre will visit Mandya to inspect the proposed site.
“I have given my word, and I will keep it,” Kumaraswamy said, noting that work related to the ARAI testing centre is progressing quickly at the national level and necessary steps are being taken to bring the project to Mandya.
The Union Minister also highlighted the long-pending demand for a well-equipped indoor sports complex in the district. He said the foundation stone has now been laid and construction will begin soon, with the work expected to be completed at the earliest.
Kumaraswamy thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya for approving the indoor stadium under the Khelo India scheme following his request.
“Responding to my request, they sanctioned the stadium for Mandya district under the Khelo India initiative. I will always remember the concern they have shown towards the development of this region,” he said.
The Minister also acknowledged the support extended by several companies through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Organisations including TVS, Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), Infosys, Hinduja Group, and HMT contributed to various welfare activities in the district.
Through these CSR initiatives, electric vehicles were distributed to more than 388 specially-abled persons, desktops and laptops were provided to around 600 schools in Mandya, and a fully equipped ambulance was donated to the Mandya Institute of Medical Sciences (MIMS).
“The corporate sector has shown commendable social responsibility through these initiatives,” Kumaraswamy said.
Highlighting the government’s focus on youth development, he stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been giving strong emphasis to youth empowerment and regularly guides the Cabinet on programmes aimed at their welfare.
“These directions are being effectively implemented by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya,” he added.
Kumaraswamy further said that several development initiatives are being brought to Mandya, including renovation grants provided to 96 schools through CSR funding.
Assuring residents that their expectations would be fulfilled, the Minister said industrial development in the district is being actively pursued through his ministry.
“The ARAI unit will be established here, and once it comes up, it will generate employment opportunities not only for the youth of Mandya but also for people from neighbouring districts,” he said.
