In a significant move, the Karnataka State Government announced on Thursday the approval of an enhanced budget for the ongoing development of the Vijayapura greenfield airport. The project’s cost has been revised from an initial ₹347.92 crore to a new total of ₹618.75 crore.
Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H.K. Patil clarified the reason behind this financial adjustment during his post-Cabinet briefing. He explained that the initial plan for the greenfield airport was designed for ATR aircraft operations. However, the scope has now been expanded to accommodate larger aircraft, necessitating a review by the Chief Secretary and subsequent approval from the Cabinet for the increased expenditure.
Beyond the airport project, the Cabinet also sanctioned the installation of 10 harmonious call blocking system towers in several central prisons, including those in Ballari, Vijayapura, Dharwad, Shivamogga, Belagavi, Mysuru, Kalaburgi, and Tumakuru. This crucial security enhancement will be implemented at a cost of ₹16.75 crore.
Further, the government is introducing a mandatory mid-career training program for employees eligible for promotions, mirroring the professional development pathways available to IAS and IPS officers. This new policy mandates at least 15 days of physical training and annual online courses, as directed by departmental heads, to ensure a serious approach to professional growth. These changes will be formalized under the ‘Karnataka State Public Service (Mandatory training for promotion) Rules 2025,’ according to Minister Patil.
Finally, the Cabinet approved the establishment of bio-CNG plants with a capacity of 50 tonnes per day at the Agriculture Produce Marketing Committees (APMCs) located in Dasanapura (Bengaluru), Kolar, and Mysuru. Each of these plants is budgeted at ₹24.96 crore, signaling a push towards sustainable energy solutions within the state’s agricultural sector.