What Did K'taka CM Discuss with Rajnath Singh?

Bengaluru, July 9 (NationPress) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah engaged with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in Delhi on Wednesday to discuss plans for an air show during the upcoming Mysuru Dasara celebrations.

Furthermore, discussions included the allocation of land for the Defence Department in Bengaluru aimed at developing a defence corridor and other vital infrastructure projects.

Attending the meeting were Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, Ministers K.J. George, Byrathi Suresh, State Industries Minister M.B. Patil, and former Minister T.B. Jayachandra.

After the meeting, CM Siddaramaiah informed reporters about the three principal topics discussed with Rajnath Singh.

"Firstly, an air show is a regular feature during Dasara. I have submitted a formal request to organize the air show this year as well," he stated.

"Secondly, we have sought assistance in establishing defence corridors in Karnataka, similar to those already launched in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. We are advocating for the creation of defence corridors in our state," he elaborated.

Additionally, he mentioned, "We requested land from the Defence Ministry in Bengaluru for three distinct projects: a tunnel project, a link road connecting to Bengaluru International Airport, and a double-decker flyover."

According to the Chief Minister, the Defence Minister expressed his willingness to grant permission for the air show.

"Regarding our other proposals, Rajnath Singh responded favorably. I have also requested a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. If he accommodates my request, I will meet him," Siddaramaiah stated.

He reiterated, "I had previously sought an appointment with the Prime Minister as well. If he grants time, I will make an effort to meet him again."

When questioned about a potential meeting with Congress leader and Lok Sabha Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday, CM Siddaramaiah clarified, stating, "Rahul Gandhi has yet to confirm an appointment. However, media reports suggest that Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and I are scheduled to meet him. I will request an appointment, and if he agrees, I will meet him."

On the topic of appointments to boards and corporations within the state, the Chief Minister mentioned that Congress National General Secretary and Karnataka party in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala will arrive in Delhi on Thursday evening for discussions.

CM Siddaramaiah presented three formal requests to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh: land allocation for essential infrastructure projects in Bengaluru, including 2.039 acres for the Bengaluru Urban Vehicular Twin Tower Tunnel Project aimed at alleviating traffic congestion from Bengaluru International Airport and the northern regions of the city. Additionally, 6.837 acres of Defence department land is requested for a link road from Airport Road (Ballari Road) to Sarovara Layout, along with land for a metro viaduct and a double-decker flyover under Phase 3 of the Metro Rail project.

Another request was made for the sanction of 0.34 acres for the Aerospace Industry Support and Development Agency (ALISDA) under the Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA), as well as 7.02 acres of Indian Air Force land for these initiatives.

The third request involved seeking support for defence corridors in Karnataka.

"The state government has requested the establishment of two defence corridors — one in the northern region and another in the southern region — as part of the Centre's 'Make in India' initiative," the submission noted.

The third submission sought the involvement of the Indian Air Force through aerial displays by the Surya Kiran, Sarang, and other aerobatic teams during the forthcoming Mysuru Dasara celebrations, scheduled from September 22 to October 2, 2025.