Bengaluru, March 3: Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot highlighted on Monday that the state government's distinctive approach towards development, widely recognized as the "Karnataka Model," is attracting attention from economists and prestigious universities globally.
Addressing a joint session of the Karnataka legislature at Vidhana Soudha, Governor Gehlot emphasized that this unique developmental strategy prioritizes a people-centric governance model, focusing comprehensively on economic, social, and cultural progress. He underscored that key components of this initiative include sustainable green energy, women's empowerment, and inclusive governance practices.
Karnataka Model: Global Acclaim and Recognition
Governor Gehlot pointed out that this innovative approach has drawn international praise and is extensively studied by global experts. Citing recognition from Oxford University, he mentioned that the esteemed institution described Karnataka's model in its Human Rights Hub blog as "Shining a Light in the Darkness" and "A Blueprint for the World."He further added, “The head of the United Nations personally visited Karnataka to study our model and has publicly commended our welfare programmes.”
Guarantee Schemes: Silencing Critics with Positive Results
Addressing previous concerns over the potential financial risks associated with ambitious welfare programmes, Governor Gehlot firmly stated, "The government has proven these predictions false." He emphasized that Karnataka has successfully balanced welfare initiatives and economic stability, resulting in increased private capital investments and improved revenue generation.Governor Gehlot stated that Karnataka currently ranks second in India for foreign direct investment (FDI), alongside achieving notable growth in GST collections—recording a 12% year-on-year increase until December this fiscal year.
Economic and Social Improvements
Through proactive welfare policies, the Governor noted a significant reduction in inequality, asserting that farmer suicides have also dramatically declined, reflecting the effectiveness of welfare interventions.Highlighting fiscal prudence, he said that over ₹52,000 crore is allocated annually for welfare guarantee schemes, with ₹70,000 crore directly transferred into citizens' bank accounts since the current administration assumed office. Overall, more than ₹90,000 crore is annually invested in welfare programmes, positively impacting over 1.25 crore families through direct cash transfers, subsidies, and various departmental incentives.
Karnataka's Vision: A USD 1 Trillion Economy
Governor Gehlot outlined the state's ambitious goal of transforming Karnataka into a USD 1 trillion economy, driven by strategic investments in healthcare, education, sanitation, and sustainable agriculture.Detailing the state's strong fiscal management, he highlighted Karnataka’s robust revenue collection of ₹1,81,908 crore in the first three quarters of FY 2024-25, marking a 13% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. He further emphasized Karnataka’s impressive performance in GST collections, ranking second nationwide in total collections among states.
Governor Gehlot concluded his address by reiterating that the Karnataka Model reflects the vision enshrined in India's Constitution by Babasaheb Ambedkar—promoting fairness, reducing inequality, and fostering inclusive growth for all citizens.