Karnataka Unveils Ambitious Tech Hub in Bidadi: ₹1 Trillion Investment Boosts AI and IT
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Karnataka is set to revolutionize its technology ecosystem with a massive ₹1 trillion investment in upgrading Bengaluru's infrastructure and a new IT and AI-focused city in Bidadi. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced the plans on the first day of the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025, a 28th edition event that expects to attract representatives from 60 countries and 50,000 participants. According to Shivakumar, Bengaluru's strength lies in its people, with an unmatched talent base of 25 lakh IT experts. The state government is also planning a second airport and a dedicated NRI Secretariat to support the growth of international business. The new city in Bidadi, spread over 9,000 acres, will feature residential layouts for NRIs and an international complex for international business houses. The government is also drawing up proposals for a 'Beyond Bengaluru' plan, which aims to distribute technological growth beyond the capital. To support this vision, the Karnataka government has introduced an IT policy for 2025-2030, offering generous incentives for start-ups willing to shift to tier-two cities. These incentives include 50% rent reimbursement, property tax reimbursement, electricity duty waiver, and a 25% reduction in telephone and internet bills. The policy also supports research and development through a 40% reimbursement of up to ₹50 crore and offers additional incentives for work in AI, quantum computing, blockchain, and related fields. The government has set aside ₹960 crore over five years for these incentives, which will be available to a limited number of recipients in each category. The 'Beyond Bengaluru' plan is part of Karnataka's efforts to secure international partnerships and reduce pressure on the city. Leaders from several countries have shown interest in investing billions of dollars in the state, and the government is working to support these investments.
