Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, and IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge has announced a detailed strategy, dubbed the Local Economy Accelerator Programme (LEAP), designed to completely revitalize Kalaburagi district. This ambitious plan will focus intensely on industrial growth, innovation, human capital development, agricultural advancements, and boosting tourism.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Deputy Commissioner’s office on Saturday, the Minister emphasized that the LEAP initiative aims to significantly increase Kalaburagi’s contribution to Karnataka’s overall Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
“Currently, Bengaluru accounts for a substantial 40% of the State’s GDP, while Dakshina Kannada contributes about 4.5%. Kalaburagi district’s current GDP stands at 1.9%, and our clear objective is to elevate this share to 2.5% within the span of a single year,” stated Mr. Kharge, outlining the program’s immediate economic targets.
To fuel this transformation, the LEAP program proposes a substantial investment of ₹1,000 crore over the next five years. This fund is earmarked to foster innovation, encourage entrepreneurship, and create employment opportunities within burgeoning technology sectors by enhancing access to crucial financial resources, robust infrastructure, and a supportive business environment.
Mr. Kharge highlighted that the LEAP initiative is projected to generate nearly five lakh jobs, further solidifying Karnataka’s position as a premier hub for diverse technological development, extending well beyond its traditional center in Bengaluru.
Driving Growth: The ‘Beyond Bengaluru’ Vision
Expanding on the ‘Beyond Bengaluru’ philosophy, Mr. Kharge detailed ongoing efforts to stimulate startups and technological innovation throughout Kalaburagi district. He added, “Our commitment to youth empowerment extends beyond education and employment; we are also planning to establish a large-scale Sports City. By leveraging local resources, our aim is to transform Kalaburagi into a leading model Smart City.”
In a significant move to preserve the region’s rich history, Mr. Kharge announced that ₹313.17 crore has been allocated for the conservation and restoration of historical monuments and heritage sites across Kalaburagi district, a project to be overseen by the Department of Archaeology, Museums, and Heritage.
Specific projects include the development of the Nagavi heritage zone in Chittapur taluk, an ancient center of learning, with a total investment of ₹68 crore. Additionally, Malkhed Fort in Sedam taluk, a former capital of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, will receive ₹6 crore for its development. The Sri Suryanarayana Temple at Kalgi is also slated for restoration work totaling ₹4.17 crore.
Furthermore, at Kanaganahalli in Chittapur taluk, a historically significant Buddhist site, a new information center costing ₹2 crore will be established to enhance guidance and facilities for visitors and tourists.
The press conference was attended by several notable dignitaries, including MLA Allamprabhu Patil, MLCs Thippannappa Kamaknoor and Jagdev Guttedar, and Deputy Commissioner B. Fauzia Tarannum.
Earlier that day, Minister Kharge also took part in the 70th Karnataka Rajyotsava day celebrations, where he offered floral tributes to the portrait of Goddess Bhuvaneshwari at Nagareshwara School in the city.