Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to extend greater financial support to the state, saying Karnataka’s substantial contribution to the country’s economy warrants stronger backing from the Centre.
Speaking at the Network18 Rising Bharat Summit in Karnataka, Shivakumar said he has consistently raised the issue with the Prime Minister during their meetings, stressing that the state’s economic growth plays a crucial role in India’s overall development.
Karnataka’s contribution deserves support
Recalling a recent interaction with Prime Minister Modi, Shivakumar said the Prime Minister had remarked that Global Capability Centres (GCCs) across the world are looking towards Bengaluru for investment and expansion.
“Whenever I meet the Prime Minister of this country, I always tell him, ‘We are helping you…’,” Shivakumar said, emphasising that Karnataka’s strong economic performance should be matched by increased financial assistance from the Union government.
Bengaluru remains India’s GCC hub
The Chief Minister highlighted Bengaluru’s position as the country’s leading technology and innovation hub, attracting multinational companies and Global Capability Centres.
He said the city’s growing prominence on the global stage reflects Karnataka’s contribution to employment generation, exports, technology and economic growth, making a strong case for enhanced support from the Centre.
Seeks stronger Centre-State partnership
Shivakumar reiterated that Karnataka is seeking greater financial assistance for infrastructure and development projects to sustain its rapid growth and improve public services.
He maintained that a stronger partnership between the Centre and the state would help Karnataka continue contributing significantly to India’s economy while addressing the growing demands of its expanding urban and industrial sectors