Recent government data reveals that Kannadigas hold a majority of jobs in Karnataka’s industries, including multinational manufacturing firms. The data comes in the wake of a controversial job reservation policy introduced by the Siddaramaiah government, which was met with significant backlash from the private sector and subsequently paused.
According to the Department of Commerce & Industries, Karnataka’s 1,659 medium and large industries, 87 multinational manufacturers, and 46 public enterprises employ a total of 8.06 lakh people, of which 6.96 lakh (86%) are locals. Notably, Kannadigas are more prevalent in senior management roles (Group A) and their percentage increases in lower job categories (Groups B, C, and D), which include supervisory, clerical, and routine positions.
The current state policy mandates that industries receiving government incentives must ensure Kannadigas occupy all Groups C & D jobs and maintain a 70% overall local employment share. Industries Minister M B Patil emphasized that industries are already hiring local talent as needed and highlighted efforts to align local skills with industry demands.
The Karnataka State Employment of Local Candidates in Industries, Factories, and Other Establishments Bill, which required industries to appoint local candidates to 50% of management and 70% of non-management roles, was shelved after facing strong opposition from the private sector. However, the government continues to seek ways to ensure job opportunities for locals, including potentially new regulations.
Drafted rules by the Labour Department define ‘Kannadiga’ as someone whose mother tongue is Kannada and who has passed a Kannada exam or studied in a Kannada-medium school. The proposed rules also suggest 100% reservation for Kannadigas in Groups C & D, though the Department of Commerce & Industries has expressed reservations about these measures.
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