Bengaluru, Nov 18 (NationPress) The Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, D.K. Shivakumar, who also oversees Bengaluru Development and Town Planning, emphasized the importance of talent and technology as the foundational elements of Bengaluru's success.

"California boasts 1.3 million IT professionals, whereas Bengaluru has 2.5 million," he stated.

While inaugurating the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025 at the Bengaluru International Exhibition Centre with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Shivakumar remarked: "This illustrates Bengaluru's strength. Out of Bengaluru's 14 million residents, 20 percent are IT professionals."

He highlighted, "Karnataka's emergence as an IT powerhouse was not by coincidence. The government and private sectors collaborated to achieve this. It was the first state in India to implement an IT policy and establish an IT Ministry."

"Our government has allocated ₹1.5 lakh crore for Bengaluru's development. Projects including a 41-km double-decker flyover, twin tunnel roads, elevated corridors, buffer roads, and a 117-km Bengaluru Business Corridor are underway. Additionally, plans for an IT city in Bidadi and a second airport in South Bengaluru are in motion. We will also establish a new department for NRIs," he disclosed.

According to Shivakumar, "Bengaluru accounts for 40 percent of India's IT exports. Our state has the largest number of engineering, medical, and paramedical colleges in the nation. No other state possesses the talent pool we have. Investors are turning to Bengaluru, trusting our capabilities, and we are working rapidly to enhance infrastructure."

He elaborated, "The theme for this year's summit, 'Futurise,' signifies change and lays the groundwork for a promising future. I am here not just as the Deputy Chief Minister but as a representative of your investments in the state. We aim to co-create a global future for Karnataka."

Shivakumar noted, "Since 1998, this IT fair has been a staple in Karnataka, marking the largest IT event in Asia. This year, the venue has shifted from Bengaluru Palace to Bengaluru International Exhibition Centre. I recall granting permission for Bengaluru Palace as the event site during my tenure as Urban Development Minister."

He concluded, "Global leaders are attending this event, recognizing it as the future of IT. They trust in our vision, and we are committed to meeting their expectations. The rapid population growth has strained our infrastructure, and we are addressing these challenges. Cooperation from all sectors is essential," Shivakumar emphasized.