Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, in his maiden Independence Day address, laid out a comprehensive roadmap for the state's progress, aiming to elevate Karnataka's economy to $3 trillion by 2047 under the motto 'Young Karnataka–New India'. A key highlight is the emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI) integration, with plans to introduce AI education in government schools from Class 6 onwards through initiatives like 'AI Akshara Abhiyana' and 'Coding Gurukula'. Bengaluru is set to host India's first government-owned AI university, complemented by the establishment of several AI hubs across the state to foster an advanced technological ecosystem.
Further promoting balanced regional growth, the Chief Minister announced the 'Beyond Bengaluru' initiative, which includes setting up five Global Technology Centres in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities such as Kalaburagi, Belagavi, Hubballi-Dharwad, Mangaluru, and Mysuru. An Advanced Manufacturing Cluster is also planned for Doddaballapura, with anticipated investment commitments of ₹20,000 crore and the creation of approximately one lakh jobs. To address employment, schemes like 'Chief Minister Udyoga Sankalpa' and 'Udyoga Nidhi' will prioritize filling 72,000 government vacancies and provide incentives to entrepreneurs generating jobs in 10 backward districts. Additionally, significant investments in infrastructure, including ₹1.56 lakh crore for Bengaluru and development of highways and rural roads, underscore the government's commitment to robust and inclusive growth across Karnataka.
