Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has convened a meeting to review a draft Economic Master Plan aimed at significantly transforming the Bengaluru Metropolitan Region (BMR). This strategic initiative seeks to develop the region into a robust economic hub, projecting a total economic output of USD 400 billion and creating between 20 lakh to 25 lakh jobs by the year 2037. The planning process has involved collaboration with the ISEG Foundation as the knowledge partner, emphasising the need for private investment and sustainable infrastructure expansion.

The presently valued economy of the BMR stands at approximately USD 149 billion. The plan aspires to more than double this figure by 2037. The report highlights that the region, which spans three districts, is home to nearly 16 million residents and contributes about 40 per cent of Karnataka’s Gross State Domestic Product, while housing a quarter of the state’s population. The per capita income in the BMR is nearly double the average income in Karnataka, indicating significant current economic potential.

Strategic Growth Drivers Highlighted in the Master Plan

The Economic Master Plan is structured around key principles designed to facilitate rapid and sustainable growth. These include catalysing large-scale private investment, utilising land value judiciously to fund development projects, and ensuring that inclusivity and sustainability remain at the forefront of all initiatives. To achieve the 2037 targets, five principal growth drivers have been identified as priorities.

The first priority involves positioning the BMR as a global centre for information technology and Global Capability Centres, particularly focusing on artificial intelligence and tech start-ups. Plans feature the establishment of designated IT hubs, deep-tech innovation zones, and an AI mission aimed at fostering advancements in these sectors. The second priority looks to transform the BMR into a global manufacturing destination, especially in areas such as aerospace, electronics, automotive, and biopharma industries.

Healthcare, education, and tourism are the focus of the third priority, which aims to enhance the region’s status as a leader in these crucial domains. The fourth priority encompasses infrastructure improvements with a particular emphasis on sustainability. Proposed enhancements include increasing the share of public transport from 35 per cent to 75 per cent through metro and rail expansions, as well as establishing a second airport and improved transport corridors. Furthermore, the use of treated water and optimising distribution networks have been prioritised to meet projected water needs.

Planned Urbanisation and Community Living Initiatives

The fifth priority of the Economic Master Plan centres on promoting planned urbanisation, housing solutions, and improving overall livability in the BMR. This includes developing international-standard cities, business districts catered to services, and transit-oriented developments. The plan also envisions affordable housing and shared accommodation options for various workers, combined with a rehabilitation programme intended to eliminate slums from the region.

Officials indicated that the next steps involve engaging with various departmental stakeholders to refine and discuss the proposals further. Notable attendees at the review meeting included Ministers Krishna Byre Gowda and Priyank Kharge, alongside Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh and Additional Chief Secretary Tushar Girinath. The ongoing discussions will focus on creating a long-term strategy for economic expansion, job creation, and enhancements to both infrastructure and quality of life within the BMR leading up to 2037.

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