DK Shivakumar Unveils Welfare Push Hours After Taking Charge as Karnataka Chief Minister

Just hours after being sworn in as Karnataka Chief Minister, DK Shivakumar rolled out a series of major announcements aimed at students, youth and urban development, signaling an active start to his administration.

The new Chief Minister took oath at a simple ceremony held at Lok Bhavan Glass House in Bengaluru in the presence of party leaders and religious representatives. Following the event, Shivakumar quickly moved to outline several priority initiatives for the state.

One of his first and most notable announcements was the introduction of free bus passes for students across Karnataka. The decision is expected to provide relief to thousands of families while improving access to education.

Shivakumar also pledged to accelerate recruitment in the public sector. He said the government would release a job calendar and prepare plans to fill nearly 50000 vacant government positions. The proposal is expected to be discussed in an upcoming cabinet meeting.

Focusing on employment opportunities beyond the public sector, the Chief Minister announced plans to launch a private employment exchange program supported by skill development initiatives. The scheme is intended to improve job prospects for Karnataka’s youth.

In a move aimed at encouraging leadership, culture and sports activities, the government plans to establish 10000 Bharat Jodo Youth Associations across the state. Each association will receive financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh to support local programs and community engagement.

Urban infrastructure has also been placed high on the new government’s agenda. Shivakumar announced an allocation of Rs 2000 crore for road repairs and development projects in Bengaluru, a city that has long struggled with traffic congestion and damaged roads.

The government is additionally preparing a one time settlement scheme to regularize certain unauthorized constructions. Properties measuring up to 2500 square feet are expected to be covered under the proposed framework.

Drawing on his previous experience as Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister, Shivakumar said he intends to focus on the Brand Bengaluru vision and address long standing infrastructure challenges in the state capital.

With Karnataka’s next Assembly election expected within the coming years, these early announcements are being viewed as key indicators of the new government’s priorities and development agenda.