Siddaramaiah on Friday said Bengaluru should emerge as the capital of agricultural technology, just as it has become a global hub for the information technology sector.
He was speaking after inaugurating the Global Agri Tech Summit-2026 organised by Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry in the city.
Technology must benefit every farmer
The Chief Minister stressed that innovation in farming must reach every farmer and said Karnataka should fully utilise emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to strengthen agriculture and other sectors.
He noted that events such as the summit help bridge the gap between farmers and modern agricultural practices, machinery and scientific advancements.
Siddaramaiah also called for greater farmer participation in such programmes so they can directly understand new tools and methods that improve productivity.
Focus on profitable farming
Stating that India is an agrarian nation, he said making farming sustainable and profitable must remain a top priority.
He expressed concern that many young people are moving away from agriculture, but added that they would naturally return if farming generated better income and long-term stability.
The Chief Minister said the state government has launched several schemes aimed at improving farm earnings and urged industries to collaborate in strengthening the agriculture sector.
Krishi Bhagya scheme revived
Referring to the Krishi Bhagya scheme, Siddaramaiah said it was introduced to support farmers, particularly those owning dry land.
He said Karnataka has a large area of dry land and ranks second among such states. He also alleged that the previous Bharatiya Janata Party government had stopped the scheme, which has now been revived by his administration.