Bengaluru, 15 August (H.S.): Karnataka will focus on generating one lakh new jobs, expanding artificial intelligence education and establishing technology hubs across the State under its ‘Young Karnataka–New India’ vision, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said on Saturday.

Addressing the 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Manekshaw Parade Ground in Bengaluru, Shivakumar announced two major employment initiatives — the Chief Minister Udyoga Sankalpa and Udyoga Nidhi schemes.

He said the government had initiated the process of filling 72,000 key vacancies in various departments. Notifications for all identified posts would be issued within the next six months, providing significant opportunities for jobseekers across Karnataka.

Under the Udyoga Nidhi scheme, entrepreneurs operating in 10 economically backward districts will receive a monthly incentive of ₹2,500 for every new job they create. The government aims to generate one lakh additional employment opportunities through the programme while promoting entrepreneurship and regional economic growth.

Shivakumar also unveiled an ambitious plan to expand access to emerging technologies. Artificial intelligence will be introduced in government schools from Class 6, helping students acquire technological skills at an early age. The government will also launch the proposed AI Akshara Abhiyana and Coding Gurukula programmes.

Bengaluru will house the country’s first government-owned AI university, while dedicated AI hubs will be established to strengthen Karnataka’s technology and innovation ecosystem.

As part of the ‘Beyond Bengaluru’ initiative, the government proposes to establish five global technology centres in Kalaburagi, Belagavi, Hubballi-Dharwad, Mangaluru and Mysuru. The initiative is intended to distribute technology-led development and employment opportunities beyond the State capital.

An Advanced Manufacturing Cluster is also being developed at Doddaballapura. The project has attracted investment commitments worth ₹20,000 crore and is expected to create employment for around one lakh people, further strengthening Karnataka’s industrial base.

Shivakumar said these measures would make Karnataka a leading centre for skills, manufacturing and innovation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman