Karnataka Deputy CM Shivakumar Announces India’s First & Largest AI-powered City in Bidadi, Bengaluru

Karnataka Government has recently approved the development of GBIT in Bidadi, set to be India’s first and largest AI-driven township, transforming Bengaluru's urban future.

Deputy CM DK Shivakumar declared that the 9,000-acre project will be developed into a future-ready city based on the work-live-play model.

“Lakhs of young people from our state will benefit from new jobs and skilling centres that will prepare them for AI-driven industries,” he said.

An Overview of the GBIT Project

Located around 30 km away from Bengaluru, the township is set to operate as Karnataka’s second CBD, with over 2,000 acres dedicated to AI-driven industries and support units, as reported by The Indian Express.

With over 1,100 acres earmarked for parks and open spaces, the township will be one of India’s greenest urban areas.

The development will also include residential clusters, schools, hospitals, and cultural centers.

The solid township is set to attract global investors, multinational firms, and tech startups, generating lakhs of jobs in IT, AI, and related sectors.

Shivakumar highlighted a ‘local-first’ employment approach, with dedicated skilling centers to prepare Karnataka’s youth for AI-focused careers.

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The Prime Purpose of GBIT Project

The project aims to decongest the state capital while generating lakhs of jobs in technology, artificial intelligence, and service sectors.

The AI-Powered City will relocate large-scale economic activity to Bidadi, supported by ring roads, expressways, and a walk-to-work model. 

A 300-metre-wide business corridor will connect major highways, STRR, NH-209, NH-275, and NICE Road, ensuring seamless access for industries and residents.

While conversing with farmers and officials at the Ramanagara DC’s office, Shivakumar laid emphasis on the government’s commitment to transparency.

“This project will move forward with fair compensation and within the legal framework. I will not repeat mistakes of the past. I am not ready to go to jail like former CM Yediyurappa by denotifying lands,” asurres Shivakumar, as per the news agency PTI.

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The Revival Journey of GBIT Project

Originally proposed in 2006, under H.D. Kumaraswamy’s tenure, the project faced delays due to developer exits and policy challenges. 

It regained momentum in 2023 when the Greater Bengaluru Bidadi Smart City Planning Authority was upgraded to the Greater Bengaluru Development Authority.

Following Cabinet approval in February 2025 and a preliminary land acquisition notification in March, the project now spans 8,493 acres across nine villages, including 6,731 acres of private land, 750 acres of government land, and 1,012 acres of waterbodies.

The government has set a three-year target for completion, backed by over ₹20,000 crore in funding, ₹2,950 crore from the Bengaluru Metropolitan Region Development Authority and ₹17,500 crore from financial institutions with a state guarantee.

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