KWIN City in the making: Stakeholders brainstorm with government

Bengaluru: The Karnataka government on Wednesday discussed various aspects of health, biotech and innovation in the upcoming Knowledge, Well-being, and Innovation (KWIN) city during a round-table discussion at the Global Investors Meet, Invest Karnataka 2025.

The KWIN City, which is being strategically developed between Doddaballapur and Dobbspet, is a state-of-the-art hub of knowledge aiming at unparalleled industrial growth and development.

Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar participated in a closed-door discussion titled 'KWIN City and the Healthcare Sector,' where national and international stakeholders participated and were reportedly enthusiastic about investing in Karnataka.

Shivakumar is said to have argued that the legacy of policies continues in Karnataka irrespective of the governments unlike states like TN, Kerala and Telangana, where he felt decisions change with governments.

As per sources in the know, the Karnataka government has signed up with University of Liverpool, with the varsity identifying a place in Bengaluru where they will start a college.

Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao reportedly explained the logistical advantages of having the KWIN city outside Bengaluru.

Terming it a one-of-a-kind initiative, Rao reportedly said: “Science, tech, health, art, culture and school are all there. It's great for investors. IT capital, science capital, bio tech - Karnataka's strength. Spread this word, bring in people. This will happen.”

IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge  said Karnataka is always known for its ambitious dreams, adding that Karnataka was the first state to come up with its biotechnology policy. 

While noting that the KWIN City is set to meet world-class standards, Medical Education Minister Sharan Prakash Patil felt such an endeavour may halt the brain drain towards the west.

“The initiative has a special focus on the medical and healthcare sectors. The implementation of such projects will not only enhance healthcare services but also boost economic activity in the state.”

Noting that major projects can only be implemented with strong political will, Patil said: "Bengaluru is now at the forefront globally, and KWIN City, spanning 5,800 acres near Bengaluru, will emerge as a hub for medical innovation."