BENGALURU
Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar promised to create a lasting legacy of growth, declaring that he will leave behind a monumental foundation of progress for citizens who placed their trust in his leadership. Addressing the state during the 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Field Marshal Manekshaw Parade Ground in Bengaluru, he urged the public to unite and work alongside his administration to steer the boat of development forward.
Highlighting new administrative steps, the Chief Minister pointed out that public service desks have been established to handle grievances seamlessly from the grassroots level up to state headquarters. He also shared ambitious economic goals, noting that Karnataka’s robust financial growth has exceeded national averages, with per capita income climbing significantly. Setting an economic target, Shivakumar announced plans to expand the state economy to three trillion dollars by the year 2047.
Focusing heavily on technology, education, and infrastructure, the Chief Minister introduced the “Young Karnataka-New India” motto. He unveiled major educational initiatives, including special coding camps and artificial intelligence programs integrated into school curriculums starting from the sixth grade, alongside plans for a specialized state-backed AI university in Bengaluru.
Furthermore, Shivakumar detailed massive investments in urban development, highlighting infrastructural expansions for Bengaluru, major water resource approvals to secure drinking supplies, and projects aimed at boosting regional groundwater levels. Concluding his address, the Chief Minister reiterated his commitment to maintaining peace, safety, and inclusive welfare across all communities while building a prosperous future.
Regional and urban announcements:
- Bengaluru Governance: Formalized plans to divide the city police commissionerate into five units for better safety coordination.
- Lake Rejuvenation: Special focus on restoring major water bodies like Hesaraghatta and Hoskote lakes for groundwater recharge.
- Massive Transit Projects: Advancing the 117-km Bengaluru Business Corridor and expanding the Namma Metro network target to 220 km.
Focus on youth, technology, and infrastructure
Highlighting a futuristic roadmap under the motto “Young Karnataka-New India”, the Chief Minister rolled out major technological and educational initiatives. These include introducing Artificial Intelligence (AI) education starting from Class 6, launching the ‘AI Akshara Abhiyan’ and ‘Coding Gurukul’, and setting up India’s first government-owned AI university in Bengaluru.
