During an NITI Aayog gathering recently in New Delhi, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah unveiled a comprehensive plan to establish Karnataka as South Asia’s premier EV hub. In his statement, Siddaramaiah also addressed concerns about increasing political division in the country and the difficulties in maintaining cooperative federalism.
Though he could not attend the meeting personally, Siddaramaiah promoted Karnataka’s approach to development as a model for growth that is inclusive, sustainable, and equitable. He urged the central government to embrace principles of pluralism, justice, and constitutional integrity.
Karnataka’s 1,000-Day Plan
A central element of Siddaramaiah’s plan is the expansion of the state’s electric mobility sector, supported by significant investments and policy measures, with the stated aim of establishing Karnataka as South Asia’s EV capital. Karnataka already obtains 62% of its energy from renewable sources and has made considerable progress in EV policy, solar parks, and clean technology. The state was also the top service sector exporter in the nation in 2023-24, with exports of $166.5 billion. Over 20 lakh MSMEs and 1.86 crore people are employed in Karnataka, which also garnered Rs 54,427 crore in foreign direct investment during that period.
Despite these criticisms, Siddaramaiah offered collaboration with the Union government and NITI Aayog, suggesting that Karnataka’s development projects and policy models could be shared and implemented more broadly.
