The Karnataka government is set to inaugurate its Knowledge Health Innovation Research-City (KHIR-City) project, described as the first of its kind in India, on 26 September 2024, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah presiding over the event. The launch of the first phase of the project will take place at Vidhana Soudha. According to Major Industries Minister M.B. Patil, the city will span around 2,000 acres, with the initial phase covering 500 acres. The project is anticipated to attract an investment of over Rs 400 billion and generate approximately 100,000 jobs, both directly and indirectly. A statement from the Minister’s office highlighted that KHIR-City has drawn inspiration from international models such as Singapore’s Biopolis, Research Triangle Park, and the Boston Innovation Cluster. Elements from Bengaluru’s Hi-tech City and Electronics City will also be incorporated into the design. The project will be located between Doddaballapura and Dobbaspet, approximately 50 km from Kempegowda International Airport. To oversee its progress, an advisory committee has been formed, including prominent figures such as Dr. Devi Shetty, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Prashanth Prakash, and Mohandas Pai. The city is planned to support a residential density of 100 people per acre and is expected to significantly boost Karnataka’s economy, contributing to increased exports and enhancing Bengaluru’s global standing. Minister Patil noted that KHIR-City would house world-class universities, hospitals, innovative industries, and research institutions, positioning it as a cornerstone of Karnataka’s future development.