On the occasion of India's 80th Independence Day, Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar unveiled a comprehensive roadmap, "Young Karnataka–New India," setting an ambitious target of transforming the state's economy into a $3 trillion powerhouse by 2047. The vision emphasizes job creation, technological advancement, and robust infrastructure development. Key initiatives include the generation of one lakh new employment opportunities through schemes like 'Udyoga Sankalpa' and 'Udyoga Nidhi'. A significant focus is placed on integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the educational fabric, with plans to introduce AI education from Class 6 in government schools, establish an AI Akshara Abhiyana, and set up Coding Gurukula programmes. Furthermore, Bengaluru is slated to host the country's first government-owned AI university, complemented by the creation of AI hubs across the state to foster a thriving technology ecosystem. In terms of infrastructure, projects worth ₹1.50 lakh crore are earmarked for Bengaluru, including the expansion of the Namma Metro network to 220 km and the development of a 117-km Bengaluru Business Corridor ring road costing ₹26,000 crore. Beyond the capital, the government is prioritizing water security with 112 major water-resource projects, and advancing the 'Beyond Bengaluru' initiative to establish Global Technology Centres in cities like Kalaburagi, Belagavi, Hubballi-Dharwad, Mangaluru, and Mysuru, ensuring balanced regional growth and employment generation outside traditional urban hubs.
