Should lay foundation for ARAI testing centre by May: HDK

Mandya: Union minister for steel and heavy industries HD Kumaraswamy on Monday called for expedited action to establish the prestigious Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) testing centre in Mandya, describing it as a transformative project for the district and the state.Speaking at the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meeting here, Kumaraswamy, who represents Mandya Lok Sabha segment, stressed that time should not be wasted and suggested laying the foundation stone as early as May.Kumaraswamy said only a handful of such testing centres exist in the country and several states are competing to host it. "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," he stated, urging all stakeholders to rise above political differences and work collectively.The minister revealed that the proposal for the ARAI centre would be placed before the Union cabinet within a week. Initially allocated Rs 500 crore in the previous budget, the project cost is now expected to rise to Rs 750 crore, with total investments potentially reaching Rs 1,000 crore in the future. He added that the project could generate employment for at least 25,000 youth directly.Kumaraswamy also emphasised the need for additional land beyond the 105 acres currently identified and called on the state govt to cooperate fully, noting that the project cannot proceed without its support. He assured that his ministry is committed to implementing the project in Mandya and that officials are already actively working towards it.He advised Mandya MLA Ganiga Ravi to play the role of a link between Union and state govts in setting up ARAI by keeping aside all the political differences.On development measures, officials reported progress in drinking water supply, welfare schemes and infrastructure projects, including foot overbridges along Bengaluru-Mysuru National Highway. The minister urged officers to visit villages regularly to assess ground realities and ensure effective implementation of govt schemes.