Karnataka's new IT policy eyes 90 lakh jobs by 2030, proposes return programme for overseas talent

The state aims to increase software exports from Rs 4.09 lakh crore to Rs 11.5 lakh crore by 2030.

Karnataka, the pioneer of India’s IT revolution, has approved a new Information Technology Policy (2025-2030) with an ambitious goal of generating over 90 lakh direct and indirect jobs and increasing the sector’s contribution to the state’s Gross State Value Added (GSVA) from 26 percent to 36 percent by 2030.

At a time when the recent H-1B visa turmoil has disrupted career stability for Indian tech workers abroad, Karnataka’s IT talent return programme arrives as a strategic safety valve, offering a pathway for experienced professionals to reintegrate into high-impact R&D and leadership roles back home.

The policy, approved by the state cabinet on November 13, envisions positioning Karnataka as a global leader in deep-tech innovation, integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI), Information Technology (IT), and emerging technologies such as Web3, Blockchain, Quantum Computing, and advanced Cybersecurity.

IT talent return programme

A key highlight of the policy is the IT talent return programme, aimed at mid-career professionals returning from abroad. The government will launch a digital portal connecting returning professionals with Karnataka-based companies seeking leadership, R&D, and mentoring expertise.

This initiative seeks to tap into India’s diaspora of experienced technology professionals, strengthen domestic R&D capabilities, and accelerate innovation in frontier areas such as AI, cloud security, and deep tech.

Also, read: Karnataka working on policy for deep tech startups, says IT minister Kharge

Women in Global Tech Missions Fellowship

To foster diversity in tech leadership, the government will roll out a ‘Women in Global Tech Missions Fellowship’ to train 1,000 mid-career women professionals in IT and non-IT roles during the policy period.

The fellowship will focus on areas such as AI governance, cybersecurity, data privacy, and tech diplomacy, and will be developed in partnership with global organizations.

Technoverse Integrated Technology Campuses

In a major infrastructure push, Karnataka plans to establish Technoverse Integrated Technology Campuses through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models within upcoming Global Innovation Districts (GIDs).

These campuses will offer plug-and-play infrastructure, advanced R&D labs, sector-focused innovation zones, and digital testbeds to drive deep-tech innovation and ensure business continuity.

Statewide Future-Ready Digital Network

The policy proposes a Global Testbed Infrastructure Network (GTIN) linking public and private testbeds across key innovation hubs, unified under a Statewide Digital Hub Grid (SDHG).

This digital backbone will enable seamless testing environments, align with Digital India and Semicon India, and optimize resource utilization.

Emerging Tech Convergence and Global Engagement

To enhance Karnataka’s international footprint, the government will organise Emerging Tech Missions in countries such as Germany, France, Japan, Sweden, and the United States to attract investments and promote global collaborations.

It will also host a Global Dialogue on AI and IT Regulation, integrate the Bengaluru Tech Summit into the initiative, and engage industry leaders as brand ambassadors for the state’s tech ecosystem.

FRAME Framework for Policy Execution

The new IT policy is anchored in the FRAME framework - Frontier Technologies, Regional Development, Alignment with National and Global Strategies, Market Creation, and Enterprise Facilitation - supported by five ecosystem enablers focusing on smart infrastructure, future-ready workforce, business resilience, market acceleration, and ease of doing business.

Targets and Outcomes

The state aims to increase software exports from Rs 4.09 lakh crore to Rs 11.5 lakh crore by 2030, boost R&D partnerships, and establish Karnataka as a global deep-tech innovation hub.

The policy emphasises inclusive regional development, transforming emerging cities such as Mysuru, Mangaluru, Belagavi, Hubballi-Dharwad, Tumakuru, Kalaburagi, and Shivamogga into competitive IT/ITeS clusters.