Updated On: 15 Aug 2026
BENGALURU: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced a series of initiatives for Bengaluru on Independence Day, focusing on making the state an economic powerhouse while preparing its young population for a technology-driven future.
Among the key announcements were a dedicated anti-rowdy squad in Bengaluru, a public AI university in the state capital and 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 Bengaluru
Shivakumar announced that a dedicated anti-rowdy squad will be established in Bengaluru to create a safer and fear-free environment. The move comes as the government seeks to strengthen law and order in the capital, which has emerged as a major technology, business and employment hub.
The chief minister said ensuring a secure environment would be crucial to Bengaluru’s continued development.
Rs 1.56 lakh crore projects sanctioned for Bengaluru
Shivakumar said projects worth Rs 1.56 lakh crore have been sanctioned for Bengaluru, describing the city as Karnataka’s economic engine.
The investments are expected to support infrastructure and economic growth as Bengaluru continues to attract technology companies, startups, investors and skilled professionals from across India and abroad.
He also stressed that Bengaluru’s development cannot happen in isolation and said the growth of the capital must go hand in hand with the development of tier-II and tier-III cities.
Karnataka to get first public AI university
In another major announcement, Shivakumar said Karnataka’s first public AI university will be established in Bengaluru. The government is also working on an artificial intelligence programme, 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 initiative aims to create a workforce capable of adapting to the changing demands of the technology sector and competing globally.
AI education from Class VI
The government plans to introduce AI education from Class VI onwards in schools across the state. Shivakumar announced “AI Akshara Abhiyana” and “Coding Gurukul” as part of efforts to strengthen digital and technology education.
Under Coding Gurukul, students will receive free special classes in coding and AI-related skills. Shivakumar 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 Schools
The state government plans to transform 1,000 government schools into Karnataka Public Schools over the next two years. The schools will receive modern infrastructure, bilingual education, digital classrooms, vocational education and transportation facilities, bringing education from LKG to Class XII under one system.
According to Shivakumar, the initiative will benefit nearly 10 lakh students. The government is also focusing on improving the quality of school education, particularly in government institutions.
Focus on green growth, water and rural economy
Shivakumar outlined plans to make Karnataka greener and reduce water wastage. He stressed the need to strengthen horticulture and dairy farming and proposed greater use of corporate social responsibility funds for education in rural areas.
The broader plan aims to ensure that economic growth is not concentrated only in Bengaluru but reaches other parts of Karnataka.
Shivakumar calls for ‘Team Karnataka’
Shivakumar called on all 224 MLAs to work together for Karnataka’s development, saying political differences should not hinder work in the Assembly.
He also sought the cooperation of Union ministers from Karnataka on issues including irrigation and employment. Referring to Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, Shivakumar said political differences could remain, but he was willing to work with him in the interests of the state.
The chief minister also credited successive governments with contributing to Karnataka’s growth and said their work should be viewed beyond party lines.
