Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar today announced a series of initiatives for Bengaluru on Independence Day, with a focus on making the state an economic powerhouse while preparing its young population for an increasingly technology-driven future.Among the key announcements were the setting up of an anti-rowdy squad in Bengaluru, a public AI university in the state capital and new programmes to introduce artificial intelligence education in schools. Shivakumar also said projects worth Rs 1.56 lakh crore have been sanctioned for Bengaluru.Anti-rowdy squad planned for BengaluruShivakumar announced that a dedicated anti-rowdy squad will be set up in Bengaluru to create a safer and fear-free environment in the city. The move comes as the state government looks to strengthen law and order in Karnataka's capital, which has grown rapidly as a major technology, business and employment hub.The chief minister said ensuring a secure environment would be an important part of Bengaluru's continued development.Rs 1.56 lakh crore projects sanctioned for BengaluruThe chief minister said projects worth Rs 1.56 lakh crore have been sanctioned for Bengaluru, describing the city as Karnataka's economic engine.The planned investments are expected to support the city's infrastructure and economic growth as Bengaluru continues to attract technology companies, startups, investors and skilled professionals from across India and abroad.Shivakumar also stressed that Bengaluru's development cannot happen in isolation. He said the growth of the state capital must go hand in hand with the development of tier-II and tier-III cities.Karnataka to get its first public AI universityIn another major announcement, Shivakumar said Karnataka's first public AI university will be established in Bengaluru. The government is also working on a programme focused on artificial intelligence, with AI certificate courses expected to begin by January 2027.AI hubs will be established across Karnataka to expand access to training, technology and innovation beyond Bengaluru. The move is aimed at building a workforce that can adapt to the changing requirements of the technology sector and compete in the global market.AI education from Class VIThe Karnataka government also plans to introduce AI education from Class VI onwards in schools across the state. Shivakumar announced two initiatives, AI Akshara Abhiyana and Coding Gurukul, as part of the state's plan to improve digital and technology education.Under Coding Gurukul, free special classes will be offered to students to help them learn coding and AI-related skills. The chief minister described the initiative as part of a new era for Karnataka's students and said the government wants young people to be prepared for future opportunities.1,000 government schools to become Karnataka Public SchoolsThe state government plans to transform 1,000 government schools into Karnataka Public Schools over the next two years. These schools will receive modern infrastructure along with bilingual education, digital classrooms, vocational education and transportation facilities. The model will bring education from LKG to Class XII under one system.According to Shivakumar, the initiative will benefit nearly 10 lakh students. The government has also placed emphasis on improving the overall quality of school education, particularly in government institutions.Focus on green growth, water and rural economyThe chief minister also outlined plans to make Karnataka a greener state and reduce the wastage of water. He spoke about strengthening horticulture and dairy farming, while also proposing greater use of corporate social responsibility funds for education in rural areas.The broader plan is aimed at ensuring that economic growth is not concentrated only in Bengaluru but reaches other parts of Karnataka as well.Shivakumar calls for 'Team Karnataka'Shivakumar called on all 224 MLAs to work together for the development of Karnataka, saying political differences should not come in the way of work inside the Assembly.He also sought the cooperation of Union ministers from Karnataka on issues including irrigation and employment. Referring to Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy, Shivakumar said political differences could remain, but he was willing to work with him for the state's interests.The chief minister also credited successive governments for contributing to Karnataka's growth and said their work should be viewed beyond party lines.(Inputs from PTI)
