Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy recently met with office-bearers and industrialists from the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI) to explore opportunities for advancing the electric vehicle (EV) sector in Karnataka. The discussions, held at the minister’s office in HMT Bhavan, focused on enhancing the EV industry in the state.
During the meeting, Kumaraswamy disclosed plans to establish a cutting-edge Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) testing center in Mandya district, with an allocated budget of Rs 500 crore. He sought the Chief Minister’s support for this initiative, emphasizing its significance for bolstering the automobile sector, particularly the EV domain.
Industrialists present at the meeting lauded the minister’s efforts, recognizing the testing center’s potential to fortify the state’s automotive industry. Kumaraswamy underscored the importance of research, manufacturing, and job creation in the EV sector’s development in Karnataka, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of sustainable transportation with minimal carbon emissions.
Highlighting the need to retain manufacturing activities within Karnataka, Kumaraswamy emphasized the pivotal role of the ARAI center in achieving this goal. He emphasized the employment generation potential of the project, aiming to establish a thriving automotive ecosystem in the state. The minister also stressed the Central government’s support for skill development in the EV sector, envisioning substantial economic growth and job opportunities through a comprehensive EV ecosystem in Karnataka.
