Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has described Bengaluru as the largest talent hub in Asia, highlighting the city’s growing influence in technology, education and innovation on the global stage.

Speaking at the inauguration of the sixth edition of The Hindu Huddle in Bengaluru, the Chief Minister said Karnataka’s capital has become a key destination for skilled professionals and continues to shape how the world views India.

Bengaluru’s talent pool highlighted

During a session titled “Government of the People: Karnataka’s Tryst with Equitable Growth,” Shivakumar pointed to Bengaluru’s vast workforce and its contribution to the global economy.

He noted that while California has around 13 lakh information technology professionals, Bengaluru is home to nearly 26 lakh IT professionals, underlining the city’s position as a major technology centre.

According to the Chief Minister, Bengaluru’s talent ecosystem has grown far beyond traditional technology sectors and now supports industries ranging from healthcare and research to education and innovation.

Karnataka’s strength in education

Shivakumar also highlighted Karnataka’s educational achievements, stating that the state produces nearly 13,940 doctors, over one lakh engineers and around 1.2 lakh nurses every year.

He said the state’s institutions continue to supply highly skilled professionals to organisations across India and overseas, strengthening Karnataka’s reputation as a hub for quality education and human resource development.

Global recognition for Bengaluru

Recalling his participation at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, the Chief Minister said global business leaders consistently recognised Bengaluru as India’s leading source of skilled talent.

He added that Karnataka’s continued investment in education, innovation and workforce development has helped attract multinational companies, investors and startups to the state.

As Bengaluru strengthens its position as India’s technology capital, the city continues to draw professionals from across the country and abroad, reinforcing its status as one of the world’s most dynamic knowledge and innovation centres.