Haryana to Get Its First IIT: Centre Asks Saini Government for Land

Haryana is set to get its first Indian Institute of Technology (IIT). Following directives from the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) and the Directorate of Technical Education, preparations have begun for this prestigious institution. The Director of Technical Education has written to all District Commissioners in the state requesting suitable land options.

The main challenge facing the project is land acquisition, as the government has specified a requirement of 300 acres. The final location will be jointly decided by the central and state governments, and only then will the project receive clearance. 

BJP MPs Begin Lobbying Efforts 

BJP MPs from Haryana have started lobbying to bring the IIT to their respective parliamentary constituencies. The fact that MHRD Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also serves as the BJP's Haryana in-charge adds significance to these efforts.

Given the intense lobbying, the institution is likely to be established in a BJP MP's area. Haryana has three Union Ministers: Manohar Lal Khattar from Karnal, Rao Indrajit from Gurugram, and Krishan Pal Gurjar from Faridabad, making these constituencies strong contenders.

However, Bhiwani MP Chaudhary Dharambir is also making efforts to bring the institution to his area, especially after the government stipulated the 300-acre land requirement. Meanwhile, Hisar's PWD Minister Ranbir Gangwa is also pursuing the project, noting that the government has already acquired land adjacent to Hisar Airport.

Congress-Represented Areas May Miss Out

While BJP MPs are actively lobbying for the IIT, constituencies represented by Congress MPs—including Hisar, Sirsa, Ambala, Sonipat, and Rohtak—might miss out due to lack of representation in the ruling party. However, ministers from these areas are independently engaging in discussions about the institution. 

In Hisar, staff from Guru Daksh Government Polytechnic have taken initiative by meeting Cabinet Minister Ranbir Singh Gangwa, who has promised to search for suitable land for the project. 

Top Contenders for the IIT

1. Hisar: Has abundant government land and an international airport under construction. The government has already acquired significant land in the area. Hisar also boasts good connectivity to Rajasthan, Punjab, and Delhi.  
2. Karnal: Represented by former CM and current Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. Located on GT Road with excellent connectivity to Chandigarh and Delhi. The GT Road belt is also a BJP stronghold. 
3. Gurugram: Union Minister Rao Indrajit's constituency has potential, though Delhi already has an IIT nearby. Despite the government already gifting AIIMS to Rewari, Rao may still push for the IIT.
4. Kurukshetra: Chief Minister Nayab Saini's home district, where he represents the Ladwa constituency. The presence of Kurukshetra University might benefit the district's case. MP Naveen Jindal is also advocating for this location. 
5. Bhiwani: MP Dharambir is showing serious interest and discussing land options. Rajya Sabha MP Kiran Chaudhary also hails from here, potentially strengthening the lobbying effort with two influential leaders.