Bengaluru/Mandya, April 2026: The Karnataka government is planning to develop a 500-acre industrial hub in Mandya district, integrating it with a proposed centre of the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) to boost industrial growth and innovation in the automobile sector.
Expansion from Research Centre to Industrial Ecosystem
Initially proposed as a 100-acre ARAI facility, the project is now being expanded into a larger 500-acre industrial ecosystem following discussions between state and central authorities.
Officials believe that instead of a standalone research centre, a comprehensive industrial hub will better support:
- Automobile manufacturing
- Research and testing
- Ancillary industries
Strategic Location Under Consideration
Authorities have been directed to identify suitable land in Mandya, with multiple locations under consideration, including:
- Areas near Basaralu
- Land parcels around Belluru, close to the Bengaluru–Mangaluru National Highway
- Industrial zones near Pandavapura
The Belluru site, spanning around 425 acres, has already been acquired for industrial purposes, making it a strong contender.
Boost to Investment and Employment
The integrated hub is expected to:
- Attract large-scale investments
- Generate significant employment opportunities
- Strengthen Karnataka’s position in the automobile and manufacturing sectors
Officials said the project will create a supportive ecosystem for industries, improving supply chains and encouraging new businesses.
Role of ARAI Centre
The proposed ARAI facility will focus on:
- Vehicle testing and certification
- Research in automotive technologies
- Ensuring compliance with safety and emission standards
It is expected to act as a key driver of innovation within the industrial hub.
More Discussions Ahead
The state government and Centre are expected to hold further rounds of discussions after reviewing detailed reports on land availability and infrastructure requirements.
