From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network
Bengaluru, Sep 4: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that technology, at its core, is a tool for human progress, and all technological advances must be inclusive and accessible to all. Speaking at an interactive session during the curtain raiser of the Bengaluru Tech Summit held in Bengaluru on Monday, he emphasized that the Bengaluru Tech Summit exemplifies our commitment to innovation, technology, and progress.
"We celebrate not only our remarkable technological achievements but also the indomitable spirit of innovation that has come to define our state," he said, underscoring that the summit is a testament to our unwavering dedication to fostering an ecosystem that nurtures and propels cutting-edge technology.
Siddaramaiah highlighted that Congress leaders in Karnataka recognized the potential of the IT sector in the late 1980s and early 1990s, laying the foundation for the state's IT ecosystem based on the vision of the late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. They promoted policies that encouraged investment in technology and infrastructure. In 1992, the Congress-led government introduced Karnataka's first IT policy, laying the groundwork for the development of Electronics City, which eventually became a symbol of India's IT prowess.
Keen on winning lost investment climate
"Our government is committed to restoring the favorable investment climate and creating a more conducive environment for technocrats to innovate, invent, and invest in Karnataka. The Congress has consistently provided stability to the political system, governance, and administration in the state," he added.
The chief minister affirmed, "We are committed to providing a stable and predictable policy environment to enable long-term commitments." Bengaluru, often referred to as the Silicon Valley and IT capital of India, has established networks with all major markets, facilitating the manufacturing sector's access to markets and service sectors to reach potential clients. Bengaluru ranks No. 1 in IT and BT exports and has the potential to become a global leader, a goal the government is dedicated to achieving.
Siddaramaiah pointed out that Bengaluru and Karnataka are ideally positioned to lead the country in technology and innovation. The state's IT industry is at a crossroads, with emerging technologies like IoT, Artificial Intelligence, and Quantum computing reshaping the landscape. Karnataka aims to lead this transformation by fostering research and development in these domains and attracting global talent and investments.
"Our government is already working towards establishing Centers of Excellence in these domains to facilitate collaboration among all stakeholders. We commit to enhancing skill development, promoting entrepreneurship, and aligning education with industry needs to effectively meet future demands," he said.
Industry-Academia collaboration
Regarding industry-academia collaboration, Siddaramaiah noted that Karnataka was the first state in the country to establish a separate department for skill development. They are also working on setting up a Skill Council in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders to bridge the industry-academia gap. Collaborations with educational institutions will ensure a future-ready workforce and ignite innovation.
He stressed that Karnataka's tech prowess extends beyond borders and that the state is committed to leveraging its strengths to address global challenges such as climate change, global warming, and cybersecurity. The government will provide support and resources to start-ups and young companies, emphasizing their importance in driving innovation.
"Karnataka aspires to set the national agenda for technological leadership, driving innovation, and fostering an inclusive and sustainable IT ecosystem," Siddaramaiah concluded. He also expressed the government's openness to suggestions and discussions with industries to create a favorable investment environment.
Fast-tracking Metro work
Despite being one of the world's fastest-growing cities, Bengaluru faces challenges in infrastructure development, standard of living, traffic, and transportation. Siddaramaiah highlighted the government's shift in priorities to address these challenges, focusing on improving public transport, last-mile connectivity, and infrastructure development. They are fast-tracking metro construction to the airport and promoting the establishment of industry clusters, including aerospace and healthcare.
Karnataka has gained recognition as a preferred investment destination for leading Indian and global multinational companies. For example, Taiwanese electronics giant Foxconn recently announced plans to establish a manufacturing plant in the Devanahalli region. Karnataka's satellite towns, such as Anekal and Doddaballapur, offer unique opportunities for expansion and diversification while remaining closely connected to Bengaluru's tech ecosystem through ring roads, metro, and suburban rail systems.
Development of Mangaluru
Siddaramaiah mentioned his recent visit to Mangaluru, where the need for an IT park was evident. Steps have already been taken to establish an IT Park in the city, along with efforts to expand air traffic infrastructure and explore the possibility of starting an airline.
"Our government is rapidly expanding highway connectivity by constructing new highways and expanding existing ones. We believe in the power of technology to enhance the quality of life, bridge gaps, and drive sustainable development. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that these technological advances are inclusive and accessible to all," he concluded.
"Over the course of the summit, we will witness a convergence of some of the brightest minds, the most innovative technologies, and the most transformative ideas. It's a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and exploration that transcends boundaries," he said, underscoring Karnataka's longstanding leadership in technological advancement in India.
"It's a place where groundbreaking ideas turn into reality, where start-ups are born, and where global tech giants choose to establish their presence. We are indeed the torchbearers of the nation," he added.