Bengaluru Metropolitan Region could become a $400-billion economy by 2037 under a new Economic Master Plan reviewed by Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar
on Wednesday. The draft plan sets a target of creating around 20 lakh to 25 lakh jobs over the next 11 years, with technology, manufacturing and infrastructure expected to drive much of that growth.
The Bengaluru Metropolitan Region is already estimated to be worth around $149 billion and contributes nearly 40 per cent of Karnataka’s Gross State Domestic Product. Spread across three districts, the region has a population of about 1.6 crore. Its per capita income is nearly twice the state average, according to the Chief Minister’s Office.
Five sectors at the centre of Bengaluru’s 2037 plan
The Economic Master Plan identifies five broad growth drivers for the region.
Technology sits right at the top. The plan wants Bengaluru to expand its role in IT, Global Capability Centres, artificial intelligence and technology startups. Proposed steps include dedicated IT and GCC hubs, deep-tech sandboxes and a separate AI mission.
Manufacturing is another big piece. The draft focuses on seven sectors, including aerospace and defence, electronics, automobiles, biopharma and medical devices.
Healthcare, higher education and premium tourism have been identified as another area where the region could generate jobs and investment.
Metro, suburban rail and second airport
Transport is likely to be one of the biggest challenges as Bengaluru grows. The plan proposes raising the share of public transport from 35 per cent to 75 per cent.
That would require major expansion of Metro rail, suburban rail and Regional Rapid Transit System corridors. The plan also talks about a second airport, stronger ring roads, radial roads, chord roads and more multi-modal transport hubs.
For many Bengaluru residents, this part of the plan may matter as much as the headline economic number. Traffic and long commute times have already become part of daily life across several parts of the city.
Housing and water
The draft plan also gives space to water supply, affordable housing and planned urban growth.
It proposes higher water supply, more reuse of treated water and better management of the distribution network. On housing, the plan includes affordable homes and shared rental accommodation for industrial workers, gig workers and service employees.
Integrated private townships, planned business districts and transit-oriented development are part of the proposal too. A slum rehabilitation programme aimed at making the region slum-free has also been included.
The draft will now be discussed with stakeholder departments before the Karnataka government prepares a final action plan.
