Karnataka Cabinet approves law for ‘B’ Khatas to rural properties

Bengaluru: The Cabinet on Friday is said to have approved a Bill to provide ‘B’ khatas to all unauthorised rural properties, similar to an exercise being carried in urban areas.

The Karnataka Gram Swaraj and Panchayat Raj (Amendment) Bill is expected to cover some 90 lakh rural properties that do not have khatas. These properties will be brought under the government’s e-Khata regime.

The Cabinet is also said to have approved amending the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement (KTPP) Act to provide a 4 per cent reservation in tenders to Muslim contractors. This was announced by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in his 2025-26 Budget.

The Cabinet is also learnt to have discussed a proposal to give 4.24 acres of land belonging to the Agriculture Department in Hebbal for the International Flower Auction on a rent-free basis for two years.

The Cabinet further discussed approving a financial assistance of ₹96.77 crore for reconstruction and replacement of equipment at fire-stricken Bangalore Bio-Innovation Centre.

KPSC reforms

Sources said the Cabinet decided to approve some measures to reform the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC).

It was decided to reduce the number of members from 16 to eight. As recommended by the Hota Committee, it was decided to set up a search committee to appoint KPSC members.

An expert committee will be formed to suggest further measures to revamp the KPSC, the Cabinet decided, sources said.