Karnataka government opposes move to shift HAL units out of Bengaluru

The Karnataka government has firmly opposed any plans to relocate Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) production units out of Bengaluru, following Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s recent proposal to move some of HAL’s advanced production facilities to his state.

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Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, addressing reporters in Bengaluru, asserted that Karnataka would not allow any relocation of HAL units currently operating in the state. He emphasized that HAL is a matter of pride for Karnataka and a key contributor to the state’s economy and industrial ecosystem.

The Deputy Chief Minister clarified that while the Karnataka government has no objection to Andhra Pradesh establishing new defence-related projects or HAL expansions in its territory, existing units in Bengaluru must remain untouched. He assured that Karnataka is ready to offer land and support for HAL’s future expansions within the state, reaffirming its commitment to retaining core aerospace and defence manufacturing capabilities.

The statement comes amid growing concerns among employees and industry observers over potential political and economic consequences of moving established public sector undertakings. HAL, with its headquarters and several manufacturing divisions in Bengaluru, plays a critical role in India’s defence production and aeronautics research.

The Karnataka government’s strong stance aims to safeguard the state’s longstanding relationship with HAL and protect jobs, investment, and infrastructure built over decades.