New Delhi: Hours after taking oath as Karnataka’s Chief Minister, DK Shivakumar announced a sweeping six point agenda focused on youth empowerment, employment generation, infrastructure development and property reforms, declaring the beginning of what he called a “new youth era” in the state.
Presenting the decisions taken by his first Cabinet, Shivakumar said the government would prioritise creating opportunities for young people while accelerating development initiatives across Karnataka. He emphasised that the new administration would work to translate public trust into tangible benefits for citizens.
One of the most significant announcements was the introduction of free bus passes for all school and college students. Expanding a benefit previously available to specific groups, the government said eligible students would be able to access public transport free of cost once the operational framework is finalised in consultation with the Transport Department.
The Cabinet also approved the creation of a private sector employment exchange to connect job seekers with companies. Alongside this, the government plans to fill 56,000 vacant government posts, with a recruitment calendar expected to be announced soon. The proposed employment platform will help unemployed youth register for job opportunities, while a policy on preference for local candidates is expected within a month.
In another major initiative, the government will establish 10,000 Bharat Jodo Youth Clubs across villages and urban wards. Each club will receive financial support of Rs 10 lakh and is expected to serve as a centre for sports, cultural activities, leadership development and community engagement, with memberships ranging from 150 to 200 young people.
To address Bengaluru’s infrastructure concerns, the Cabinet sanctioned Rs 2,000 crore for road resurfacing and asphalting projects across the city. The government aims to complete the work within the next few months.
The administration also announced a one time relief measure for homeowners facing Occupancy Certificate and Completion Certificate issues, covering properties up to 2,500 sq ft with limited building deviations. Additionally, the B Khata to A Khata conversion scheme will be expanded statewide to simplify property ownership records and legal documentation.
Senior Congress leader G Parameshwara was sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister alongside Shivakumar, while 13 legislators joined the new Cabinet.
