K'taka CM calls on industries to partner with govt to boost rural education through CSR

Bengaluru's Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has called on industries to partner with the government through CSR funds to improve rural education in Karnataka. Speaking at the CSR Summit 2026, Shivakumar emphasized that children in rural areas should receive quality education and exposure to technology from a young age. The government plans to develop 2,000 government schools through CSR support, and IT companies can adopt and develop these schools while retaining their brand identity.

Schools can incorporate the company's name, and support can be provided through infrastructure such as computers, laboratories, vehicles, and buildings. Shivakumar stressed that CSR is an investment in society and children's future. He highlighted that Bengaluru, home to premier institutions like ISRO and HAL, should provide urban children with exposure to rural life, agriculture, and the challenges faced by farmers.

The state government spends billions on educational provisions, but CSR spending in 2024-25 was only about ₹3,394 crore. The government aims to utilize the full potential of CSR funds in priority sectors like education and healthcare.