Karnataka's Information Technology and Bio-Technology (IT-BT) minister Priyank Kharge on September 30 said that the state will soon unveil a gaming policy.
Kharge expressed confidence that Karnataka will emerge as a frontrunner in India's animation and gaming sector, emphasizing the forthcoming policy's role in fostering a conducive environment for industry growth.
Kharge said that he recently conducted a video conference with gaming community representatives and industry leaders to discuss matters such as skill development, gaming policies, gaming accelerator programs, and the prospect of hosting a gaming summit in Bengaluru.
Meanwhile, Karnataka government on September 29 promulgated an ordinance amending the Karnataka Goods and Services Tax Act to impose a 28 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST) on online money gaming, casinos, and racecourses, following Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot's assent. This move comes ahead of the Union government's planned implementation of the new tax regime starting from October 1.
Also, read: Karnataka notifies ordinance for 28% GST on real-money gaming
Karnataka, home to major skill-gaming companies like Gameskraft and Mobile Premier League, displayed divided opinions regarding the GST Council's recent decision to levy a 28 percent tax on the online real-money gaming sector. While Karnataka's Revenue Minister, Krishna Byre Gowda, representing the Congress-led state in the GST Council, did not oppose this decision, Kharge criticised the council's move.
Also, read: Karnataka govt divided over 28% GST on real-money gaming
Kharge also had a discussion with Thierry Berthelot,Consulate General of France in Bengaluru. "This to strengthen our Global Innovation Alliance by collaborating across sectors in emerging technologies, including space tech, aerospace, life sciences, and gaming-animation" he said.
Kharge recently conducted a discussion with representatives of Meesho, an online reselling platform. He expressed interest in collaborating with Meesho to create skill development opportunities and inspire entrepreneurial aspirations in tier 2 cities.
Participating in another startup programme for deep tech, Kharge said, "Karnataka will drive India's high-tech innovation in engineering through skills development, incubators, and access to funding."
Kharge also met Dr Anurag Mairal, Adjunct Professor of Medicine and Director of Global Outreach Programs at Stanford Byers Center for Biodesign, Stanford University. They discussed potential collaborations in healthcare innovations with the Karnataka government, which has plans for a Center of Excellence in Life Sciences and Medical Devices.
"The center aims to encourage leadership and incubate innovations in this field, positioning Karnataka as a hub for groundbreaking healthcare sector innovations" he said.
Meanwhile, Kharge also held discussions with aerospace industry representatives to restructure and revitalize the present Center of Excellence in Aerospace, aimed at nurturing skills, leadership, and innovations.
"The Aerospace and Defence (A&D) market in India is estimated to reach around $70 billion by 2030, and it is imperative for Karnataka to take a leadership position in the sector," said Kharge.
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