State govt. urged to revive industries founded by Mysore Maharajas

Former mayor and BJP leader Sandesh Swamy has urged the State government to take immediate steps to revive the historic industries established by the erstwhile Mysore Maharajas, many of which are now facing neglect or closure.

In a statement issued here, Mr. Swamy said the rulers of the former Mysore State set up several landmark industries across the region. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), established in Bengaluru in 1940, is one of the most prominent ones. However, reports of HAL being relocated to Andhra Pradesh are alarming. The State government must act to retain the facility in Karnataka instead of shifting blame to the Centre, he said.

Mr. Swamy underscored the significance of other iconic institutions such as the Karnataka Silk Factory, Sandalwood Oil Factory, Mysore Sandal Soap Factory, Visvesvaraya Iron and Steel Plant. He noted that these establishments once brought national and international recognition to Karnataka but they are now struggling.

He highlighted the closure of the K.R. Mill in Mysuru, founded by Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar to generate local employment, which has remained shut for over three decades.

The former mayor appealed to the Minister for Labour to prioritise the revival of heritage industries and implement measures to prevent further closures.

Published - May 29, 2025 06:37 pm IST