Sirsa district in Haryana, long known for its cotton, wheat and paddy crops, is rapidly transforming into a centre for electric vehicle manufacturing, with more than 50 production and assembly units operating within a 150-kilometre area, The Tribune reported.
Industry representatives say the growing network is generating thousands of jobs and supplying electric two-wheelers across the country.
One of the early companies to enter the sector is Yakuza EV, founded in December 2017 by brothers Nishant Chawla and Deepanshu Chawla.
Nishant Chawla recalled that the initial years were difficult, as many people doubted their decision to start the business. Despite the criticism, the brothers continued with their plan, drawing on their experience and determination.
Chawla had begun his professional journey in 2003 in the motorcycle spare parts trade. By 2015, he began exploring new business opportunities. After nearly two years of preparation and study, the brothers established their first electric vehicle unit in Sirsa.
At that time, public awareness about electric vehicles was limited. However, as customers began to recognise the savings on fuel and the environmental advantages, demand gradually increased.
Today, Yakuza EV operates manufacturing facilities not only in Sirsa but also in Kolkata, Gwalior and Salem in Tamil Nadu. The company works with more than 1,300 dealers across India and plans to set up a new 16.5-acre plant in a village near Sirsa. It also exports vehicles to Nepal and Bangladesh.
With India’s electric vehicle market becoming more competitive and major brands introducing new models with strong promotional campaigns, Chawla said competition is healthy. However, he emphasised that understanding customer needs is essential for growth. He added that pricing and after-sales service play a key role in success.
The company focuses on offering affordable products, responding quickly to customer concerns and regularly introducing updated designs and improved battery performance. While many components are now made locally in Sirsa, some parts are still imported.
Industry leaders say Sirsa’s shift is significant, especially since the district has traditionally been associated with agriculture.
Bimal Bhatia, president of the HSIIDC Industrial Welfare Association and a local businessman, said Sirsa remains placed in a lower industrial category in Haryana and needs stronger government support. He noted that although the region is primarily agriculture-based, young entrepreneurs are trying to expand into manufacturing.
Bhatia added that better incentives and policy support could help attract more industries to the district. Located about 250 kilometres from Delhi, Sirsa faces higher transportation costs for raw materials and finished goods. He said improved support could help generate large-scale employment in the region.
As electric mobility continues to expand across India, Sirsa’s transition from farmland to factory operations reflects a broader change taking place in smaller towns aiming to become part of the country’s industrial growth story.
