Bengaluru – In a significant move to boost innovation and public welfare, the Karnataka state cabinet, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has approved several key projects, including the establishment of a Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Space Technology and a Local Economy Accelerator Program (LEAP) in Bengaluru.
SpaceTech Centre of Excellence to Be Established
Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H.K. Patil announced that the proposed SpaceTech CoE will be registered as a Section 8 company under the Companies Act, 2013. The government has allocated ₹10 crore over five years for this initiative, which aims to position Bengaluru as a hub for space innovation and research.
Kidwai Peripheral Cancer Unit in Raichur
The cabinet has also given administrative approval for setting up a peripheral cancer treatment unit under Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology at the Rajiv Gandhi Super Specialty Hospital campus in Raichur. The project will cost ₹50 crore, including ₹20 crore for civil works and ₹30 crore for medical equipment.
Expansion of Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health
To enhance pediatric healthcare, the government has approved ₹62 crore for additional medical equipment, furniture, and infrastructure for a new 450-bed hospital under the Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health in Bengaluru.
Reforms in Revenue Department Acts
The cabinet has decided to amend seven acts related to various development boards and authorities under the Revenue Department. These include:
- Kudalasangama Development Authority
- Kaginele Development Authority
- Basavakalyan Development Board
- Banavasi Development Authority
- Sarvajna Development Authority
- Kittur Development Authority
- Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Heritage Area Development Authority
Regulation of Private Ambulance Services
To improve emergency healthcare services, the cabinet has proposed amendments to regulate private ambulance operators and mandate the registration of mobile medical units as private medical institutions. Permanent registration must be issued within 30 days.
₹1,000 Crore LEAP Program to Boost Local Innovation
The Local Economy Accelerator Program (LEAP) has received administrative approval for implementation over the next five years with a total budget of ₹1,000 crore (₹200 crore per year). The program aims to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in Karnataka’s tech ecosystem.
