Karnataka inked MoUs bringing in Rs 46,375 crore investments, says CM Siddaramaiah
Bengaluru (PTI): Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday said the state has prioritised economic development by signing 21 MoUs with various organisations, bringing in investments worth Rs 46,375 crore with potential to generate 27,170 new jobs, since his government assumed office last year.
Speaking at the inauguration of the 78th Annual Technical Meet of the Indian Institute of Metals (IIM), he said Bengaluru stands as a symbol of technological and industrial progress.
"It is only fitting that we host this prestigious event, bringing together over 1,700 experts dedicated to shaping the future of metals and materials," he said.
The Chief Minister said the theme, “Transformational Technologies in Materials and Manufacturing,” of the three-day conclave underscores the critical need to envision and implement pioneering solutions to navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving world.
"The materials and manufacturing sectors are pillars of economic growth and national resilience. Their influence extends beyond industry, touching every sphere of our collective progress," he said.
"As part of our commitment to a greener future, Karnataka is prioritising the adoption of green technologies across various industries, including metals and materials manufacturing. This helps drive sustainable practices while maintaining competitiveness on a global scale," Siddaramaiah said.
Highlighting that Karnataka's dedication to reducing carbon emissions aligns with India's overall goals to mitigate climate change, the Chief Minister said: "Our carbon capture and utilisation programs are paving the way for a low-carbon future in metals and materials production."
Siddaramaiah said Karnataka remains dedicated to becoming a global leader in advanced manufacturing. "Our policies champion innovation, sustainability, and inclusive development, setting the stage for robust industry growth."
"A total of 669 investment projects have received approval from the state-level single-window committees, leading to a projected investment of Rs 90,027 crore and the creation of employment opportunities for approximately 1,73,741 people," he said.
The Chief Minister said his Government continues to support research and innovation that drive sustainable advancements in the metals and materials sectors, reflecting our commitment to fostering a competitive, responsible, and globally recognised industry.
Speaking at the event, IIM President and Chairman of JSW Group, Sajjan Jindal said that a conference such as IIM-ATM 2024 is vital for strengthening our ecosystem, fostering collaboration, exchanging ideas and recognising excellence.
“Karnataka has today emerged as a hub for high-tech industries, R&D centres and manufacturing, creating an ideal ecosystem for thriving businesses," he said.
Jindal said JSW Steel’s Vijayanagar plant, which celebrated 25 years of steelmaking last year, is a testament to Karnataka's industrial prowess.
"What began as a greenfield venture has grown into India’s largest single-location steel plant, and we are committed to making it the largest single-site steel plant globally,” he added.
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‘Test cricket needs Virat’: Lara says Kohli will be persuaded to not retire before England tour
New Delhi: West Indies batting great Brian Lara has voiced strong support for Virat Kohli to continue his Test career, amid reports that the Indian superstar recently expressed a desire to retire from the longest format of the game.
According to reports, the 36-year-old informed selectors of his intention to step away from Test cricket ahead of India’s five-match tour of England, scheduled to begin on June 20. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly urged the former captain to reconsider his decision.
Amid growing speculation, Lara urged that Kohli needed to be persuaded to stay on in the red-ball format. Posting a photo of himself with Kohli on Instagram, Lara wrote: "Test cricket needs Virat!! He is going to be persuaded. He is NOT going to retire from Test cricket." He further added that Kohli is going to average above 60 for the remainder of his Test career, underlining his confidence in Kohli's ability to remain a force in Test cricket.
Meanwhile, BCCI sources have reportedly stated that a “highly influential cricketing figure” is expected to reach out to Kohli in the coming days to convince him to stay on, especially with a high-profile England series on the horizon. Squad selection for the tour is expected around May 16.
Kohli, widely regarded as one of the modern greats, has played 210 Test innings, scoring 9,230 runs at an average of over 45, including 30 centuries and 31 fifties, which stands as an extraordinary record that has defined India’s dominance in red-ball cricket.
