Karnataka’s new animation and gaming policy aims to create 30,000 jobs by 2028

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who inaugurated the 26th edition of the summit, called for bridging the digital divide to enjoy the benefits of technology across all sections of society.

“Yet, even as we celebrate these achievements, we recognise that challenges persist. The digital divide is a reality we must address, ensuring that the benefits of technology reach every citizen, regardless of their background. We aim to bridge this gap through targeted initiatives, utilising the power of data and analytics to drive informed decision-making in governance,” he said.

“Beyond Bengaluru is a unique initiative in that direction with the primary focus of developing and enhancing ecosystems in regions beyond Bengaluru and bridging the digital divide,” added Siddaramaiah.

The aims of the AVGC-XR policy

• Karnataka will establish a centre of excellence for gaming and introduce technology business incubators (TBIs) focused on AVGC-XR.
• Financial incentives through Karnataka Information Technology Venture Capital Fund and a tiered incentives system based on contributions to sustainability and innovation.
• The focus will also be on mobile-first AVGC products, assuring special incentives and research and development grants for companies focusing on mobile-first products.
• Grants will also be provided for producing animation films, series, VR/AR/VFX projects, and game development.

The salient features of the biotech policy

• The policy supports hightech biotech clusters (5 -10 acres) where the developed industry would be encouraged to set up manufacturing units and support startups and SMEs with plug-and-play facilities.
• The policy envisions setting up a greenfield bio foundry in PPP mode to address the growing demands of growth-stage companies and to meet their requirements of GMP Pilot Plant and scale-up facility.
• The policy aims to promote Karnataka as the next global clinical trials hub in genomics.
• To encourage graduating students or professionals with experience to pursue entrepreneurship related to biotechnology business ideas, a fellowship of Rs 50,000 per month for 12 months will be given as part of the policy.

Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar appealed to investors, tech entrepreneurs and companies to invest their corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds in rural education. “I have held talks with companies and investors who are expected to generate Rs 2000 crore towards this cause,” said Shivakumar.