Karnataka to collaborate with Microsoft for fast-track industrial approvals

In a groundbreaking move, the Karnataka government is set to partner with Microsoft to streamline approvals for industrial projects, reducing approval times from the current 300 days to a targeted 60–70 days.

The innovative platform, the first of its kind in India, will debut at the Invest Karnataka 2025 summit, with a goal to issue all necessary clearances within a 100-day maximum.

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Karnataka's Minister for Large and Medium Industries, M.B. Patil, announced the collaboration on Monday following a live demonstration of the new software by Microsoft representatives. The minister emphasized the urgency of the project, citing competition from neighboring states, which have reduced their approval timelines to as low as 60 days.

Currently, 33 departments, including fire, legal, and forestry, oversee approvals for 147 services required for industrial projects. The new software, developed by Microsoft, aims to integrate these services onto a unified platform, simplifying and accelerating the process for businesses seeking to invest in the state. Patil noted that officials across departments, including ministers, will be trained in the software's use, enabling quicker processing and real-time tracking of approval statuses.

The state also introduced a new website to promote Karnataka as an attractive investment destination. Complementing the digital platform, "UMA," an AI-powered interactive tool, will offer voice-based information in Kannada, English, and several global languages.

Key officials present at the announcement included S. Selvakumar, Principal Secretary; Gunjan Krishna, Commissioner of the Department of Industries; Dr. Mahesha, Commissioner of KIADB; and Microsoft’s Project Director, Puneet.