Steps Underway To Establish IT & Semiconductor Parks In Belagavi: Minister Priyank Kharge

The Karnataka government has initiated steps to set up IT Parks and Semiconductor Parks in Belagavi, aiming to boost development and generate employment in the region, said Rural Development, Panchayat Raj, IT & BT Minister Priyank Kharge.Responding during Question Hour in the Legislative Assembly to a query raised by MLA Abhay Patil, the Minister stated that Belagavi—recognized as the state’s second capital and a key border district—has been identified for focused technological and industrial growth.He highlighted that multiple initiatives are already in motion, including the creation of plug-and-play IT infrastructure, strengthening of the startup and innovation ecosystem, and support through accelerator networks and seed funding. Several flagship programmes are being implemented, such as Nipuna Karnataka, Idea2PoC Elevate (grant-in-aid), Rajiv Gandhi Entrepreneurship Programme, Elevate Women Entrepreneurship, and grassroots innovation initiatives.On the issue of land availability, Kharge noted that the state government has been pursuing the transfer of land from the Defence Ministry for the proposed parks. Letters were sent on January 8, 2021, followed by reminders on September 9, 2021. The Chief Minister and Chief Secretary also wrote to the Defence Minister and Defence Secretary on September 21, 2021, urging early handover of the land. However, the transfer is still pending. Additionally, efforts are underway to establish a Global Technology Centre at the Kalamandir building in Tilakwadi, Belagavi, in collaboration with the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), the Minister added.The proposed projects are expected to position Belagavi as a key technology hub while creating significant employment opportunities for the youth.