Bengaluru: Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar (DKS) made a strong pitch for greater Central support to the State’s development agenda, holding separate meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi to press for key infrastructure and irrigation projects.

In his first meeting yesterday with the Prime Minister after assuming office as Chief Minister, Shivakumar discussed Karnataka’s development priorities spanning infrastructure, investment, urban mobility, irrigation, innovation and welfare programmes.

Describing the interaction as constructive, he reiterated Karnataka’s position as one of the country’s leading growth engines and sought closer cooperation between the Centre and the State to accelerate development and attract fresh investments.

“Karnataka has always been a key contributor to India’s growth story and I reiterated our commitment to further strengthening that role,” Shivakumar said.

He also stressed the need for cooperative federalism to unlock greater opportunities for the State and fulfil the aspirations of its people.

Later, in a crucial meeting with Sitharaman, the Chief Minister submitted a memorandum seeking enhanced Central assistance for capital investment, urban and rural infrastructure, and early approval and funding of major irrigation and water resource projects.

Shivakumar highlighted the Karnataka Government’s reforms in fiscal management, digital governance, revenue administration and ease of doing business, saying the State had succeeded in balancing growth with fiscal discipline.

He urged the Centre to extend support for projects that are critical to Karnataka’s water security and agricultural economy, particularly the long-pending Mekedatu, Upper Bhadra, Kalasa-Banduri and Upper Krishna projects.

According to the Chief Minister, these projects are essential for ensuring drinking water supply, expanding irrigation coverage, boosting farm productivity and strengthening infrastructure across the State.

The twin meetings come amid Karnataka’s push to secure larger Central investments and faster clearances for strategic projects that the State Government believes are vital for sustaining economic growth and meeting the needs of a rapidly expanding population.

“Karnataka will continue to play a leading role in India’s growth and our Government remains committed to securing every opportunity that advances the interests of our State and our people,” Shivakumar said.