BJP MLA Arvind Bellad
Credit: DH File Photo
Dharwad: As the state government is making all-out efforts to attract investors to set up their plants in Karnataka through Global Investors’ Meet-2025 (GIM-2025), Deputy Leader of Opposition in Assembly Arvind Bellad has urged Industries Minister M B Patil to prioritise North Karnataka development.
In a letter to Patil, Bellad has stated that there is an urgent need to prioritise the development of Kittur Karnataka and Kalyana Karnataka regions, during the upcoming GIM 2025. Despite being endowed with a strategic location, natural resources, and a skilled workforce, North Karnataka has been deprived of industrial growth compared to South Karnataka. The lack of focused efforts to attract investments has resulted in limited employment opportunities and hindered the region’s economic progress. GIM-2025 promises a golden opportunity to address the long-standing disparity and highlight North Karnataka as a prime destination for industries, he said.
Bellad demanded to announce a region-specific investment package for North Karnataka, including tax incentives, subsidies, and relaxed compliance norms, to make it more attractive to industries.
The government should expedite critical infrastructure projects, such as industrial corridors, logistics hubs, and reliable power and water supply, to enhance the region’s industrial readiness. Allocate large landbanks in Kittur Karnataka and Kalyana Karnataka to create world-class industrial zones with state-of-the-art facilities.
Dedicate sessions at GIM-2025 to showcase the potential of North Karnataka, directly engaging with corporates and investors to highlight the opportunities in the region and lastly promote industries aligned with the region’s strengths, such as agro-processing, renewable energy, textiles, and IT/BT, to leverage local resources and capabilities, he explained.
He said the economic development of North Karnataka is not just a matter of regional equity but a strategic imperative for the overall progress of Karnataka. By focusing on North Karnataka, the government can unlock its immense potential, create employment opportunities, and drive inclusive growth that benefits the entire state, he added.
Bellad expressed confidence that under the leadership of Patil, GIM 2025 will mark a turning point for North Karnataka, attracting significant investments and laying the foundation for a more balanced and prosperous Karnataka.