Mandya (Karnataka), Feb 20 (NationPress) During a recent address, Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, criticized the Congress-led administration in Karnataka, highlighting that centrally funded projects remain uncompleted and allocated funds have been returned due to the state government's failure to utilize them.

"The Centre is dedicated to ensuring balanced development," stated Kumaraswamy.

His remarks were made while presenting the 'Vignatham 2026' award, established by Sri Adichunchanagiri Kshetra, to distinguished scientist M.K. Surappa during an event in Adichunchanagiri.

Speaking in front of State Ministers, Kumaraswamy pointed out, "A number of centrally funded initiatives within the state are incomplete, and allocated funds have been returned due to lack of utilization. The state government has struggled to provide matching grants and timely land allocations." He underlined the necessity of addressing these issues, affirming that the Centre is prepared to offer full support to the Karnataka government.

"Development cannot solely be achieved through advertisements; that is not my strategy," he commented.

He emphasized that the Centre remains committed to balanced development, working under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"Under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, India is evolving into a significant global economic force and advancing in the field of artificial intelligence alongside leading countries," he remarked.

"There is no need to intertwine politics with development; mutual criticism and accusations are unnecessary," Kumaraswamy added, urging collective efforts towards the development of Mandya district.

He noted that while Mandya has made significant strides, further development is essential.

Kumaraswamy, who currently represents the Mandya Lok Sabha seat, expressed, "The residents of the Mandya Lok Sabha constituency have elected me beyond party affiliations. I am committed to serving them. In the presence of Sri Kalabhairava and under the guidance of our Guru, I pledge to bring at least two industries to Mandya."

He announced a global-level Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) research center in Mandya, with an investment of Rs 500 crore. He mentioned that funds have been allocated in the Union Budget for this project and that he has reached out to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to request 100 acres of land.

"The state government should swiftly identify suitable land through the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board, develop it, and transfer it. Public representatives lack the authority to allocate land, and politicization of this matter is unwarranted," the Union Minister stated.

"A minimum of Rs 1,000 crore will be invested in the ARAI center, which will revolutionize Mandya. This project will create extensive direct and indirect employment opportunities and establish a robust automotive sector ecosystem," he added. Kumaraswamy is also actively pursuing the establishment of another industry in Mandya district.

On the revival of the Visvesvaraya Iron and Steel Plant (VSIL) in Bhadravati, he said: "Efforts are underway to achieve self-reliance in the steel sector. An initial investment of at least Rs 5,000 crore is being contemplated for the steel plant. Technical discussions are in progress, and a Detailed Project Report (DPR) is being prepared. Steps are also being taken to revive Hindustan Machine Tools Limited."

"I do not insist on attending foundation stone-laying ceremonies for my projects. However, I have recently faced pressure to participate in such events. In Channapatna, I executed development initiatives worth thousands of crores without attending to lay foundation stones or have my name commemorated. Now, some question what progress has occurred there," he concluded.

The event was presided over by Sri Nirmalanandanatha Mahaswamiji of the Sri Adichunchanagiri Math, with floral tributes offered to the seer during the 13th Pattabhisheka Mahotsava.

Several dignitaries, including Sri Basavamurthy Madara Chennayya Swamiji of Madara Chennayya Gurupitha, Sri Manjunatha Bharathi Swamiji of Gosai Math, former Chief Minister D.V. Sadananda Gowda, State Ministers K.H. Muniyappa and Cheluvarayaswamy, former MLA Suresh Gowda, MLA K.R. Pete Manjunath, award recipient M.K. Surappa, and numerous other dignitaries and seers were also present.