Challakere: from sheep pastures to India's 'science city'

For generations the vast grasslands (amrit mahal kavals) around Challakere were known for grazing herds. Over the last decade and more, the same open land has become home to several national scientific institutions, earning the area the nickname "science city".

The Aeronautical Test Range

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) operates an Aeronautical Test Range near Challakere, used for flight-testing unmanned aerial vehicles and other aeronautical systems. The fighter jets in this portal's logo celebrate this new chapter in the district's story.

Other institutions

Facilities connected with organisations such as the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and ISRO have also been set up in the region.

A changing district

These projects have brought new jobs and attention to the district, along with debates about land use and the future of the grasslands – a story this portal welcomes contributions on.