The government of Karnataka has announced plans to build a dedicated accommodation facility for civil service aspirants in New Delhi,with an investment of ₹80 crore. This initiative aims to support candidates preparing for the IAS, IPS, and other Central civil services examinations, as stated by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar during a Cabinet meeting on Saturday.
Located near Karnataka Bhavan, new facility will not only provide housing but also coaching support . Chief Minister Shivakumar emphasized that bringing aspirants together under one roof would enhance interaction and facilitate the exchange of ideas among students. He also noted that 50% of the accommodation will be reserved for candidates from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes .
Funding for this project will be sourced from both the Public Works Department and the Social Welfare Department . In addition to the accommodation facility,the Chief Minister revealed plans to bolster the office of Resident Commissioner in New Delhi. This will involve assigning more senior officers and engaging retired IAS and IPS officers to help Karnataka secure a larger share of Central funds.
Shivakumar stated that the reorganization of the Resident Commissioner’s office aims to enhance the state's ability to pursue funds under various Central schemes,drawing inspiration from the successful models of states like Gujarat, Maharashtra,and Tamil Nadu. Retired officers from Karnataka residing in Delhi will be invited to assist in this effort.
Further, the Cabinet approved measures to strengthen the legal cell in New Delhi,which will focus on handling cases before the Supreme Court and addressing inter-State river water disputes. The meeting also resulted in significant financial allocations for healthcare and infrastructure projects. A total of ₹100 crore was sanctioned for the Yadgiri Institute of Medical Sciences to establish 200-bed super-speciality hospital . Additionally, ₹18 crore was allocated to upgrade the Karwar Institute of Medical Sciences.
Other approvals included ₹30 crore for the Bengaluru Medical College and Research Institute and another ₹30 crore for constructing a bus stand in Sandur, Ballari district. The Cabinet also greenlit the purchase of 620 new buses for ₹235 crore to enhance transport services in rural areas, along with ₹112 crore for setting up electric bus depots at 11 locations statewide.
