Bengaluru: Jobs for young people, artificial intelligence and expanding technology opportunities beyond Bengaluru formed the key focus of Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s maiden Independence Day address as Chief Minister, as Karnataka unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at preparing its workforce for future economic growth.
72,000 government jobs in focus
Addressing the state-level Independence Day celebrations at the Field Marshal Manekshaw Parade Ground in Bengaluru, Shivakumar announced the Chief Minister’s Jobs Mission, under which filling vacant government posts will be prioritised.
According to the Chief Minister, recruitment for 72,000 key vacancies has already begun, with notifications for all posts expected within the next six months.
The government will also launch Yuva Udyoga Setu, a digital platform designed to connect job seekers, employers and educational institutions. The initiative had already been under development earlier this year as an integrated employment and skills platform.
New scheme aims to create one lakh jobs
The government also plans to transform 100 government ITIs into employment-oriented campuses in partnership with industries. The initial target is to create employment opportunities for 10,000 youngsters.
Under the proposed Udyoga Nidhi scheme, entrepreneurs creating jobs in Karnataka’s 10 most backward districts will receive an incentive of Rs 2,500 per new job every month for two years. The scheme aims to generate one lakh jobs.
AI University planned
Artificial intelligence will form another major part of Karnataka’s growth strategy. Shivakumar announced plans for a government-driven AI University focused on education, research, innovation and industry collaboration.
The state also plans to build a wider AI ecosystem to equip young people and existing workers with skills required for emerging technologies.
Technology growth to move beyond Bengaluru
Under the Beyond Bengaluru initiative, five Global Technology Centres are planned at Kalaburagi, Belagavi, Hubballi-Dharwad, Mangaluru and Mysuru.
The government also announced an Advanced Manufacturing Cluster at Doddaballapura, near Kempegowda International Airport, with investment commitments of Rs 20,000 crore and an expected employment potential of nearly one lakh jobs.
Shivakumar said Bengaluru will remain Karnataka’s technology and investment gateway, while stronger technology centres across the state will help distribute opportunities and growth more widely.