Mangaluru: In a significant boost to industrial development in coastal Karnataka, the Bhoomi Puja for the manufacturing unit of Italy-based MIR Group was performed at the MSEZ Industrial Area in Mangaluru on Friday.
The ceremony was led by the Bishop of the Diocese of Mangalore, Most Reverend Dr. Peter Paul Saldana, who performed the traditional Bhoomi Puja marking the formal commencement of the project. The event was attended by Dakshina Kannada MP Brijesh Chowta, Moodbidri MLA Umanath Kotian, senior representatives of the MIR Group, and officials of the Mangaluru Special Economic Zone (MSEZ).
First operations in India
Mangaluru witnessed a strong show of support from political leaders and industrial stakeholders as MIR Group initiated its first operations in India. The company has chosen the MSEZ Industrial Area for setting up its manufacturing facility, signalling confidence in the region’s industrial ecosystem and logistics advantages.
Speaking on the occasion, MP Brijesh Chowta said that the establishment of the unit was the result of continuous efforts and coordination. “With sustained efforts, MIR Group has now begun its journey in Mangaluru by performing the Bhoomi Puja. We will extend full cooperation until the construction of the building is completed and production begins,” he said.
He expressed hope that the entry of an international company would inspire more industries to invest in Dakshina Kannada district. “Such major industries coming to the district will generate employment opportunities for our youth and strengthen the local economy,” he added.
Support from local leadership
Moodbidri MLA Umanath Kotian congratulated all those involved in bringing the project to the district. Referring to local connections behind the initiative, he said it was a matter of pride that “our own village boy” had played a role in establishing an Italian company in the region.
Kotian also appreciated the efforts of the MP and other stakeholders in facilitating the project and ensuring that the district was positioned as an attractive destination for global investors.
MIR Group CEO Architect Raffaele Marazzu said the company was delighted to begin its operations in India through Mangaluru. “We are very happy, especially to have the opportunity to operate in India for the first time. We thank everyone, including the MP and local authorities, for their support,” he said.
Strengthening MSEZ’s industrial base
The project is expected to add momentum to industrial growth within the Mangaluru Special Economic Zone, which has been promoting export-oriented manufacturing and allied sectors. While specific investment figures and employment projections were not disclosed during the event, officials indicated that the unit would create direct and indirect job opportunities in the region once operational.
Surya Narayan, CEO of MSEZ, along with other senior officials, attended the ceremony. Representatives of MIR Group, including Executive Director Nitik Ratnakar, Emmanuel Pina, Gazmend Luzi, Sunaje, Commercial Director Pramod Pinto, and others were present.
The presence of both political leadership and corporate executives underscored the collaborative approach taken to bring the project to fruition.
Employment and economic prospects
Mangaluru, being strategically located with port connectivity and established infrastructure, has increasingly attracted interest from domestic and international investors. Leaders at the event highlighted that industrial projects of this scale can provide skilled and semi-skilled employment to local youth, thereby contributing to income growth in the district.
The commencement of construction following the Bhoomi Puja is expected to pave the way for the early completion of the facility and the start of production activities. Officials expressed optimism that the successful establishment of MIR Group’s unit would further enhance the region’s industrial reputation.
As Dakshina Kannada continues to position itself as a preferred investment destination, the arrival of MIR Group marks another milestone in the district’s journey towards diversified industrial growth and expanded employment opportunities.
