The Karnataka cabinet has approved two major policies — the Information Technology (IT) Policy 2025–2030 and the Space Technology Policy 2025–2030 on November 13.
These policies aim to strengthen the state’s position as a leading technology hub in India. The Cabinet has set aside ₹967.12 crore to implement these initiatives over the next five years.
Under the new IT Policy, the government wants to increase software exports from ₹ 4.09 lakh crore to ₹ 11.5 lakh crore by 2030. It also wants to raise the IT sector’s share in Karnataka’s economy from 26% to 36%. The policy aims to create over 90 lakh direct and indirect jobs during this period.
The policy offers an 'IT Talent Return Programme' to support mid-career professionals overseas, which comes amid global layoffs and uncertainty looming over US work visas.
The state will create a digital portal to match these professionals with Karnataka-based companies looking for experts in leadership, research and development, and mentoring roles.
IT/BT Minister Priyank Kharge speaking to Deccan Herald said the idea was not triggered by layoffs or H1B visa confusion. "Many people want to come back and work. Also, there's a lot of traction because of the presence of global capability centres( GCC).
The policy also supports the state’s ‘Beyond Bengaluru’ mission. It aims to bring new IT and AI investments to emerging cities such as Mysuru, Mangaluru, Hubballi-Dharwad, Belagavi, Tumakuru, Kalaburagi and Shivamogga. The goal is to build a strong digital network and spread technology-led growth across the state.
The IT policy also focuses on new-age technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Quantum Computing, Green IT, and advanced Cybersecurity. Karnataka wants to become an “AI-native” state where AI is deeply integrated into industry and public services.
A special programme called the ‘Women in Global Tech Missions Fellowship’ will also be launched. It will train 1,000 mid-career women tech professionals and help experienced women return to leadership and R&D roles.
The Space Technology Policy 2025–2030 has its own goals. It aims to train 50,000 students and young professionals for jobs in the growing space sector. The government also aims to attract $3 billion in investments from global and Indian space companies. Karnataka wants to remain the top space-tech destination in India by keeping 50% of the national market share and gaining 5% of the global market.
The Cabinet also approved new Centres of Excellence for AI, Computing, and defence technology at IIT Dharwad under the Local Economy Accelerator Program(LEAP) at ₹18 crore each.
Overall, these policies are designed to help Karnataka grow faster, create more jobs, and remain a leader in both IT and space technology.
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