Udupi: Deputy Commissioner Swaroopa T K has urged officials to adopt a proactive approach toward setting up new industrial units in Udupi district to boost employment for locals. During a series of high-level meetings at Rajathadri, she emphasized the need for swift land acquisition and strategic planning to turn Udupi into a hub of economic activity.

Meetings held included the District Kaigarika Spandana Samithi, Single Window Clearance Committee, Export Promotion Committee, and the District-Level Monitoring Committee under PMEGP. The DC outlined a detailed roadmap for boosting industrial development and expanding job opportunities.

To enable faster industrialization, she called for expedited acquisition of land at:

  • Shivapura, Hebri – 74.8 acres

  • Kerebettu – 38.7 acres

  • Nitte, Karkala – 50.4 acres

  • Uppoor, Brahmavar – 101.1 acres

    • Highlighting a drop in export performance, the DC noted that business fell from ₹2,496.2 crore (2023–24) to ₹1,930.3 crore (2024–25) so far. Fish exports, in particular, plummeted from 1.07 lakh MTs to 76,531 MTs. She asked the fisheries department to support exporters and boost volumes by year-end.

    She warned that undeveloped industrial plots would be reclaimed and reallocated, stressing compliance. Referring to the Dr. Sarojini Mahishi Report, she insisted that Kannadigas be given priority in employment, especially in Class-D jobs, even without formal qualifications.

    The DC also flagged delays in land acquisition for road access to the Belapu Industrial Area and instructed officials to resolve them promptly.

    Pollution concerns at the Shivalli Industrial Area were also raised, where RMC units had allegedly leased plots illegally. The Pollution Control Board was directed to cancel clearances for non-compliant units.

    To address falling exports, she urged the industry department to hold a joint meeting with exporters and relevant departments.