Karnataka Sets Ambitious IT Export Target with New Five-Year Policy
The Siddaramaiah-led Karnataka government has unveiled an ambitious Information Technology Policy for 2025-2030 that aims to nearly triple the state's software exports within the next five years. The cabinet approved the comprehensive policy on Thursday, setting a bold target to increase software exports from the current Rs 4.09 lakh crore to Rs 11.5 lakh crore by 2030.
This strategic move is designed to reinforce Karnataka's dominant position in global technology markets while significantly boosting the state's economic growth. The government has allocated Rs 967.12 crore to implement various fiscal incentives, concessions for IT companies, and other initiatives outlined in the policy.
Transforming Karnataka's Economic Landscape
The new IT policy envisions a substantial increase in the sector's contribution to the state's economy. Currently, the IT industry accounts for 26% of the Gross State Value Added, and the government aims to elevate this to 36% by the end of the policy period in 2030.
Among the key proposals is the establishment of Technoverse, also known as Integrated Technology Campuses, which will be developed under the Public-Private Partnership model. These state-of-the-art campuses will feature plug-and-play infrastructure and advanced research laboratories focused on emerging technologies including Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and cybersecurity.
The policy also includes plans for creating a Global Testbed Infrastructure Network that will connect advanced public and private testbeds across Karnataka's major innovation hubs and Technoverse campuses. Additionally, a Statewide Digital Hub Grid will unify existing IT parks, centers of excellence, innovation hubs, and research facilities across the state.
Empowering Women in Technology
In a significant push for gender diversity in the tech sector, the policy introduces the 'Women in Global Tech Missions Fellowship' program. This initiative will provide specialized training to 1,000 mid-career women technology professionals, enhancing their skills and preparing them for leadership roles in the global technology landscape.
The fellowship represents a crucial step toward addressing gender imbalance in the IT industry while tapping into the vast potential of women professionals to drive innovation and growth in Karnataka's technology ecosystem.
Bengaluru's Infrastructure Boost
In a separate but related development, the state cabinet also granted administrative approval for Rs 613.25 crore to rent 46 mechanical sweeping machines for the five city corporations under the Greater Bengaluru Authority.
Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil announced that these machines will be procured on rent for a seven-year period. The initiative aims to improve air quality, enhance road cleanliness, and address public health concerns caused by pollution in Bengaluru.
According to an official note, the tendering process for these sweeping machines will follow the provisions of the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement Act. The rental costs will be borne by the respective city corporations within the Greater Bengaluru Authority.
The government has also instructed that city corporations already possessing sweeping machines acquired through various schemes should reduce their intake of the new rented machines, ensuring optimal resource utilization across Bengaluru's urban infrastructure.
This comprehensive approach combining technological advancement with urban infrastructure development underscores Karnataka's commitment to maintaining its leadership position in India's technology landscape while ensuring sustainable urban growth.
