Karnataka's Minister for Large and Medium Industries, M.B. Patil, has strongly countered Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh's invitation to aerospace companies, asserting that Karnataka offers a comprehensive ecosystem, not just land. This rebuttal comes after the Karnataka government decided to withdraw the acquisition of 1,777 acres of land near Bengaluru airport for a proposed Aerospace Park, leading Lokesh to invite aerospace firms to consider Andhra Pradesh instead.
Patil emphasized that Karnataka has cultivated India's leading aerospace and defence ecosystem over decades, contributing 65% of the nation's aerospace output and ranking first nationally and third globally. He highlighted that the state's strength lies not merely in land availability but in its robust infrastructure, skilled workforce, and conducive environment for innovation and growth.
Karnataka's Aerospace Ecosystem
Karnataka has established itself as a pivotal player in India's aerospace sector, with Bengaluru at its core as a global hub for aerospace manufacturing, research, and development. The state boasts a thriving innovation and technology ecosystem, housing numerous research institutions, startups, and established companies that drive technological advancements in the aerospace sector. This ecosystem fosters collaboration and provides access to cutting-edge technologies and a skilled talent pool.
Karnataka's strategic location and robust infrastructure make it an ideal destination for aerospace ventures. The state is home to specialized industrial parks strategically located near key transportation hubs like Kempegowda International Airport, offering seamless connectivity to domestic and international markets. These parks provide state-of-the-art facilities tailored for the aerospace industry, facilitating efficient logistics and supply chain management.
Government Support and Policies
The Karnataka government has been proactive in promoting the aerospace and defence sectors through favorable policies and initiatives. The state's Aerospace and Defence Policy (2022-27) aims to attract $6 billion in investments and create approximately 70,000 jobs over five years. This policy underscores the government's commitment to establishing Karnataka as a preferred investment destination for aerospace and defence manufacturing. The government also supports drone production as a strategic priority, fostering a robust ecosystem through public-private partnerships, skill-development workshops, and industry events.
Karnataka's Strengths
Karnataka's dominance in the aerospace sector is supported by several key factors:
Andhra Pradesh's Invitation
Nara Lokesh's invitation to aerospace companies followed Karnataka's withdrawal of plans to acquire farmland for an aerospace park near Bengaluru. Lokesh highlighted Andhra Pradesh's dedicated aerospace policy, incentives, and readily available land. He also pointed to Andhra's planned Space City near Tirupati as a significant opportunity for the sector.
Karnataka's Response
Despite Andhra Pradesh's efforts to attract aerospace firms, Karnataka remains confident in its ability to retain its leading position in the sector. Minister Patil asserted that no industry will move out of the state due to a lack of land. Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara also affirmed that Karnataka will not allow industrial investors to be lured away by other states, emphasizing that land is just one factor in investment decisions and that Bengaluru's talent, infrastructure, and innovation are advantages that cannot be easily replicated.
Karnataka's comprehensive ecosystem, strong government support, and established leadership in the aerospace sector position it as a preferred destination for companies seeking to expand their operations in India. The state's focus on innovation, infrastructure, and a skilled workforce ensures its continued dominance in the aerospace and defence industries.
