States PCS: Karnataka GK for KPSC and other Karnataka State Exams

Notes:
At present, the contribution of IT sector to the GSDP is 25 per cent and in this Bengaluru alone accounts for nearly 98 per cent. Keeping this in view and to increase the contribution of other regions, the ‘Beyond Bengaluru’ project has been initiated.
The office of the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM) has the objective of increasing digital economy contribution to Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) to 30 per cent.
The KDEM aims to attract investments for the IT/ITeS sector in the state and to create 10 lakh jobs by 2025. It works to achieve the target by focusing on 5 verticals of IT products and services, Innovation and Startups, Electronic System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM), ‘Beyond Bengaluru’, and ‘Talent Accelerator’.

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Dr Krithi K Karanth, Chief Conservation Scientist at Bengaluru-based Centre for Wildlife Studies (CWS), has been chosen as the first Indian and Asian woman for the 2021 ‘WILD Innovator Award’. This award given by the ‘WILD ELEMENTS Foundation’ brings together a coalition of innovators, advocates and partners to “disrupt the status quo and identify solutions to global sustainability and conservation.

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The Karnataka Brain Health Initiative (Ka-BHI) is a program that aims to improve treatment and prevent neurological disorders in the community. The program was launched in January 2022 by the Karnataka Health Department, NIMHANS, and NITI Aayog. The goal of the program is to develop an evidence-based public health model for prevention and equitable care for neurological disorders. The Ka-BHI program facilitates early diagnosis and timely treatment for common neurological diseases, including: Epilepsy, Headache, Stroke, Dementia, Brain infections. The Ka-BHI program’s brand ambassador is Indian cricket player Robin Uthappa.

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Sant Sevalal Maharaj was a social reformer and spiritual teacher of the Banjara community. He was born on February 15, 1739 in Surgondankoppa, Karnataka. He died on January 4, 1773.  Sevalal Maharaj was a disciple of Jagadamba. He fought for the traditional rights and land rights of the Banjara community. He also fought against the Nizam ruler and the Mysuru ruler.  Sevalal Maharaj is revered by the Gor Banjara community as a spiritual guru. His followers referred to him as “Sant Sevalal Maharaj” or “Sadguru Sevalal Maharaj”.  Sevalal Maharaj’s birth anniversary is celebrated in February in states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh.

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Economic survey of Karnataka 2022-23 mentions to create end to end (e2e) value chains for export-oriented Food Parks and Infrastructure and Cold chain infrastructure (Chilli in Byadagi, Rose onion in Chikballapur, Coffee in Chikkamangaluru, Hassan and Kodagu). Byadagi chilli is a type of chilli that is known for its deep red color and less spicy flavor. It is used in many South Indian food preparations. Byadagi chillies come in two types: dabbi and kaddi. Dabbi chillies are small and plump, and are popular for their deep red color, flavor, and taste. Byadagi chillies are characterized by: Deep red color, Less spicy flavor, Wrinkles on the pods, Low pungency and Sweet flavor

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Bidar, known as the crown of Karnataka, saw a cultural transformation 600 years ago when the Bahmani Sultanate’s capital was shifted there. The city now boasts wonders of Indo-Islamic design, with influences from Turkey, Persia, and local artisans. Bidar is home to intricate structures like Rangeen Mahal, Mahmud Gawan Madrasa, and Chaukhandi tomb. Bidri art, a famous local craft, originated in Bidar and is still practiced today. The city will host Bidar Utsav from January 7 to 9 to celebrate its rich cultural heritage and honor its history and artisans.

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Prof Sukhdev Thorat, the former chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC), has been appointed as the chairman of the newly constituted committee by the Karnataka State Government. This committee is tasked with framing the Karnataka State Education Policy, reflecting his expertise and leadership in educational planning and administration.

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Karnataka has made significant strides in the Electric Vehicle sector, with investments enhancing its infrastructure and capabilities. As of 2023, the state has registered approximately two lakh electric vehicles, positioning it as the third highest in the country in terms of EV registrations. This achievement underscores Karnataka’s commitment to promoting sustainable transportation solutions.

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The Karnataka state government is initiating the KHIR city project to foster growth in knowledge, healthcare, innovation, and research sectors. Inspired by international models like Singapore’s Biopolis Cluster, the project aims to be a unique space for academia, skill development, and manufacturing across various domains.

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The C4i software is a crucial component of the Bengaluru Safe City Project, designed to bolster crime prevention efforts. It utilizes artificial intelligence to manage a network of 7,500 cameras, offering real-time surveillance across the city. This system helps in identifying suspicious activities and deploying police forces efficiently, thereby enhancing public safety and security.