Bengaluru, April 13 (NationPress) Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H. D. Kumaraswamy, made his first visit to the state legislature in two years on Monday, where he engaged in discussions with Karnataka Industries Minister M. B. Patil regarding pivotal initiatives for industrial development.

The meeting, which took place at Patil's office, concentrated on fostering industrial advancement in the Mandya Lok Sabha constituency (which Kumaraswamy represents) and throughout the state, particularly with a focus on job creation.

In attendance were senior officials from both the central and state governments, alongside public representatives from Mandya.

After the discussions, Kumaraswamy characterized the talks as "very positive," emphasizing a commitment to resolving challenges related to land allocation for industrial projects in Mandya.

He remarked that previous conversations regarding this matter would now reach a constructive conclusion.

A significant topic of discussion was the proposed creation of a testing facility by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) in Mandya. Kumaraswamy pointed out that such testing centers currently exist in only four locations across the nation and expressed his determination to establish the fifth in Karnataka.

He highlighted that the envisioned ARAI center would function as an international-level testing facility, significantly enhancing the automobile sector, especially the electric vehicle industry.

The Union Minister noted that approximately 500–600 acres of land would be necessary for the center and its supporting infrastructure. He mentioned that efforts are ongoing to pinpoint suitable land within Mandya, with two to three locations already assessed, although availability remains scarce.

Kumaraswamy urged the state government to address the land issue by April 30, indicating that his ministry plans to conduct the foundation-laying ceremony for the project in May.

He also proposed that government land of around 500 acres could be utilized, with proper compensation for farmers if the land is currently cultivated.

According to the Union Minister, he has already initiated preliminary discussions with farmers, who have responded positively, and noted that the Chief Minister had earmarked 100 acres for the project in the state budget.

Addressing the challenges faced, Kumaraswamy remarked that Mandya, being an agriculture-centric irrigation district, has limited government and dry land availability.

While the state has indicated it can provide 100 acres, he asserted that a larger tract would facilitate better project implementation. He mentioned that Minister M. B. Patil had also responded positively to this request.

Regarding political developments in the Davanagere South Assembly constituency, Kumaraswamy chose not to comment, stating that internal matters within the Congress party should be resolved by the party itself.

He added that no leaders who transitioned from JD(S) to Congress have reached out to him thus far, but if approached, he would consult senior party leaders before making a decision.