Aerospace Park in AP:
The Karnataka government recently announced that it is withdrawing its plan to acquire land for an aerospace park near Bengaluru. This move came after a long protest by farmers, who opposed giving up their fertile land for industrial use. Taking advantage of this situation, Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh invited aerospace companies to consider setting up operations in his state instead.
On Tuesday, just hours after Karnataka’s decision, Lokesh posted on social media platform X, saying, “Sorry to hear this, aerospace industry. Why not look at Andhra Pradesh? We have over 8,000 acres of ready-to-use land just outside Bengaluru, along with great incentives under our aerospace policy.”
The Karnataka project was supposed to be built on 1,777 acres of farmland in Channarayapatna and nearby villages in Devanahalli taluk, close to Bengaluru International Airport. However, due to a farmers’ protest that lasted for over 1,100 days—one of the longest in the state—the government finally dropped the plan.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said the state would now acquire land only from farmers who are willing to give it voluntarily. These farmers will receive higher compensation and developed plots. He emphasized that the land is very fertile and important for the farmers’ livelihoods. Although industrial development near Bengaluru is still a priority, the government chose to protect the interests of the farming community.
Actor and activist Prakash Raj, who supported the protest, praised the government’s decision. He said that Siddaramaiah had fulfilled his promise of social justice by respecting farmers’ rights.
Now, Andhra Pradesh is positioning itself as an ideal destination for aerospace companies. Its location near Bengaluru, large land availability, and industry-friendly policies make it an attractive alternative for future investments in the aerospace sector.
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