EXCLUSIVE | MASSIVE Rs 11.5 lakh cr target for software exports | Karnataka IT Minister Priyank Kharge INTERVIEW

Karnataka's IT Minister Priyank Kharge on Wednesday, November 19 told ET Now that the state has set a target to double the software exports to Rs 11.5 lakh crore by 2030, powered by IT services and the growing Global Capability Centre ecosystem.He said, "we are already achieving close to 5.3 lakh this year, and the goal is to double that in the next four years through services and through GCCs. We are confident we will reach this target well before the policy deadline."He said, "We command 47 per cent of all investment in global capability centres. Whether it is AI or deep tech, these technologies are now entering every possible sector and vertical. We are confident of achieving our target because we have the talent pool to support it -- talent that extends far beyond the Bengaluru ecosystem.""Through our Nipuna programme, the philosophy is “skill locally, work globally.” So why can’t people trained in Bengaluru work in Brussels, Brisbane or Britain? Global companies are seeking our talent and our reskilling and upskilling initiatives will ensure that our workforce becomes one of the most employable talent pools in the world. We believe we can achieve this target within the next few years," Kharge added.Space TechnologyOn the space tech policy, Priyank Kharge said, "We remain leaders in space tech -- whether in SMEs, MSMEs or in innovation. Our space tech policy focuses not just on upstream activities but also heavily on downstream applications, using space technology and space-based solutions to address real-life problems. We are starting a Centre of Excellence in space for this purpose. We have ISRO, NAL, HAL and the entire supporting ecosystem here. Only the launchpads are elsewhere due to coastal advantages."SubsidiesTalking about subsidies offered by other states, Kharge said, "You cannot attract investments purely by offering higher subsidies. You need a strong ecosystem. Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Chennai have been built over two to three decades. It’s not just about subsidies or land availability. Office space leasing is one of the most expensive in Bengaluru, yet 47 per cent of all GCC office leasing last year happened in this city.""We do not offer incentives or subsidies for investments in Bengaluru -- only in areas beyond Bengaluru. That’s why we created the Local Economic Accelerator Programmes to develop sector-specific clusters and they’re working well. Subsidies may help states with central support, but I’m not sure how sustainable that is for a revenue-deficit state," he added.Competition between southern statesOn the topic of competition between southern states, Kharge stated, "Of course, there will be competition for investments. All of us are vying for the same piece of the pie but we must understand where the acrimony comes from. You cannot scavenge for investments based on someone’s tweet or complaint. Let everyone pitch fairly, and may the best state win. We are not afraid of competition; in fact, we thrive in it. Data speaks for itself."Bengaluru’s second airportRegarding Bengaluru’s much anticipated second airport, Kharge said, "an expert committee has been formed to assess passenger and cargo movement, connectivity and overall logistics and to ensure Bengaluru is decongested. The committee will make a decision in the coming weeks."https://youtu.be/pmVwyhmu93o?si=mBDGCwKYAYZ8ZRCC