By Kavita Mistry 
At the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025, Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced that the government is actively evaluating proposals for a second airport in the southern region of Bengaluru. This comes in response to rapid urban expansion, rising passenger traffic, and the need for better regional connectivity.
The state has already shortlisted three potential sites—two located along Kanakapura Road (Kaggalipura and Harohalli) and another on Kunigal Road in north Bengaluru.
A Landmark Moment at the Tech Summit
The announcement came during the unveiling of the Karnataka Space Technology, IT & Startup Policy 2025–2030 by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The policy aims to push Karnataka deeper into global leadership in deep tech, space technology, AI, research, and innovation, building upon the legacy of India’s first-ever IT policy launched in 1997—also by Karnataka.
Siddaramaiah highlighted the state’s goal to:
- Capture 50% of India’s space-tech market
- Secure 5% of the global space-tech market within the next decade
The policy focuses on fostering advanced startups, encouraging R&D-based growth, and strengthening collaboration between industry, academia, and government.
₹1 Lakh Crore Mega-Infrastructure Push
Shivakumar emphasized that the Karnataka government is investing over ₹1 lakh crore to reshape Bengaluru’s infrastructure. Key mega-projects include:
1. 40-km Twin Tunnel Project — ₹42,500 crore
One of India’s largest planned urban tunnel systems to ease city-wide congestion.
2. 41-km Double-Decker Metro Line — ₹18,000 crore
A futuristic metro corridor designed to boost mass transit capacity across crucial routes.
3. 74-km Bengaluru Business Corridor — ₹27,000 crore
A new high-speed mobility and business district to catalyze investments and employment.
4. 9,000-Acre AI-Focused City near Bidadi
A first-of-its-kind AI-driven township designed to attract global tech giants, startups, research labs, and advanced manufacturing units.
5. Infrastructure for Global Communities
- A dedicated NRI secretariat
- Residential township for NRIs
- International business complex
Karnataka Aims for Global Leadership
With renewed emphasis on technology-driven development, innovation, and futuristic infrastructure, Karnataka is positioning Bengaluru to remain India’s Silicon Valley and emerge as a top global tech powerhouse.