RT team
Karnataka, a state already renowned for its technological and industrial prowess, particularly in Bangalore, is now focusing on equitable growth by fostering AI and manufacturing beyond the state capital. The state aims to develop economic clusters throughout its territory to create employment hubs, reduce urban migration, and distribute economic wealth more evenly.
A major focus is on strengthening the micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) sector, which is crucial for both India’s and Karnataka’s economies. The state government’s forthcoming industrial policy plans to enhance job opportunities for over 2 million people, including blue-collar workers, and integrate more women into the workforce, thereby increasing household incomes and accelerating the growth of Karnataka’s manufacturing sector.
Training for technology-based jobs is also a priority, with the state’s Industrial Training Institutes setting national standards in short-term, technology-driven vocational training that aligns with industry needs.
Additionally, Karnataka is leading in environmental governance, having developed a state action plan on climate change that is nationally approved. The state’s green industrial policy includes sustainability-linked incentives and promotes green industrial corridors for industries like cement and steel. This policy supports water conservation in drought-prone areas and ensures sustainable groundwater levels.
Karnataka’s commitment to innovation is evident as it becomes a key player in global manufacturing with entities like Apple and pioneering startups such as Next Big Innovation Labs, which develops 3D bioprinters. With 34% of India’s Global Capacity Centres (GCCs) based in Bangalore, the state is a significant hub for intellectual property and skilled employment, backed by government incentives that facilitate the transition from R&D to market production.
This integrated approach prioritizes people, planet, and prosperity, aiming to achieve inclusive growth and a sustainable future in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), with government and industry collaboration essential to this vision.
Source: World Economic Forum
