Chief Minister Siddaramaiah launches GCC policy at Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024

In his inaugural address at Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah outlined Karnataka's role as a global tech hub, with major announcements on global innovation districts and workforce development initiatives.

In Short

• Karnataka launches GCC policy to create innovation hubs in state
• NIPUNA Karnataka scheme to skill 1 lakh people in AI and tech
• Karnataka’s startup ecosystem grows by 18.2% from 2022 to 2023

In his inaugural address at the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah underscored the state's leadership in global innovation and technology. Addressing a gathering of industry leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs, Siddaramaiah emphasised the state’s continued growth in sectors like software, biotechnology, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing, placing Bengaluru at the forefront of technological progress.

BENGALURU'S RISE AS A GLOBAL TECH HUB

The Chief Minister took pride in the state’s rich legacy, tracing its origins as an aerospace and defence hub in the 20th century. “Under the visionary leadership of former chief minister SM Krishna, Bengaluru transformed into a global tech hub with initiatives like Electronic City and IT parks,” he said. He also noted that Bengaluru’s transformation continues today with a thriving ecosystem of startups, cutting-edge research, and an abundance of skilled talent.

KARNATAKA’S GCC POLICY

A major announcement during the address was the launch of Karnataka’s first Global Capability Centres (GCC) policy. This new initiative aims to support the establishment of global innovation districts, with dedicated parks for GCCs in Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Belagavi. “The Bengaluru Global Innovation District will be part of the Knowledge, Wellbeing, and Innovation City (KWIN City), designed to become a global hub for innovation and research,” the Chief Minister said.

FOCUS ON WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Highlighting Karnataka’s significant achievements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Siddaramaiah noted that the state has the highest number of AI professionals in India. In collaboration with industry giants like Microsoft, Intel, and Accenture, the state plans to skill one lakh individuals through its NIPUNA Karnataka program. This initiative, alongside other industry-focused policies, aims to produce a workforce ready for the challenges of tomorrow.

REGIONAL GROWTH AND INFRASTRUCTURE

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also stressed the importance of balanced growth across the state. From Mangaluru’s fintech leadership to Hubli-Dharwad’s advancements in electric vehicles and drones, the state is leveraging its regional strengths to drive innovation in emerging sectors. He also spoke about efforts to improve rural connectivity through initiatives like Namma Grama Namma Raste and the Special Development Programme, designed to create equal opportunities across Karnataka.

GROWTH IN STARTUPS AND VENTURE CAPITAL

Karnataka’s startup ecosystem continues to thrive, with over 3,000 startups in the state, a growth of 18.2% from 2022 to 2023. The state has been instrumental in supporting these startups through its collaboration with the Indian Venture and Alternate Capital Association (IVCA), connecting more than 200 startups with 100 funding firms, providing capital, mentorship, and growth opportunities.

In a significant move to boost Karnataka’s position in the semiconductor industry, the Chief Minister announced the creation of the Electronics Manufacturing Cluster (EMC) in Kochanahalli. This new development is expected to drive job creation and economic growth, contributing to the global semiconductor supply chain.

VISION FOR THE FUTURE

Concluding his address, the Chief Minister reiterated Karnataka’s commitment to becoming a global leader in technology and innovation. He emphasised that the state’s long-standing reputation as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, built by visionary leaders, would continue to thrive. “Together, we will continue to drive Karnataka’s transformation and build a future where technology benefits everyone,” he said.