The Karnataka government is preparing an ambitious long-term economic development strategy for the Bengaluru Metropolitan Region (BMR), targeting an economy worth between $390 billion and $420 billion and the creation of up to 30 lakh new jobs by 2037.
The proposal was reviewed at a Steering Committee meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary earlier this week. The plan is being developed by the Institute for Sustainability, Employment and Growth (ISEG) Foundation under an agreement signed with the State government in May.
Vision for a larger regional economy
Spanning nearly 8,000 square kilometres and home to around 1.5 crore people, the Bengaluru Metropolitan Region currently contributes more than 43 per cent of Karnataka’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). The regional economy is presently estimated at around $149 billion.
According to the presentation made before the committee, the BMR recorded an average annual growth rate of 9.7 per cent between 2015 and 2025, outperforming Karnataka’s overall growth rate of 8.5 per cent and Hyderabad’s 7.5 per cent during the same period.
The region currently supports approximately 38 lakh jobs, underscoring its role as one of India’s most significant economic hubs.
New growth centres and transport networks planned
To support future expansion, the plan proposes the development of new growth centres within and beyond Bengaluru’s existing urban limits. These hubs are expected to accommodate industrial, technology, manufacturing, logistics, commercial and residential activities, helping ease pressure on the city while promoting balanced regional development.
Major transport infrastructure projects have also been proposed, including a 287-kilometre circular rail network, an additional 400-500 kilometres of Metro corridors, four Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridors and further expansion of the suburban rail network.
Improvements to road infrastructure and airport connectivity also form part of the vision.
Stakeholder consultations to shape roadmap
The government plans to conduct consultations with industry leaders, investors, academic institutions and infrastructure experts in the coming months. An industry workshop is scheduled later this month, followed by broader consultations in July.
The final development blueprint is expected to be presented to the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister in September after financial and implementation strategies are finalised.