Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar meet Rajnath Singh in a high-level meeting today to discuss Karnataka’s strategic development agenda.
The Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka jointly called on Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh in the national capital, focusing on defense land allocation and preparations for the upcoming Mysuru Dasara air show.
The leaders emphasized that the visit was administrative in nature, aimed at securing central support for state projects. “We requested permission to organize an air show during Mysuru Dasara. Rajnath Singh responded positively,” Siddaramaiah told reporters.
Mysuru Dasara Air Show: Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar Meet Rajnath Singh
A major highlight of the meeting was the proposal for the Mysuru Dasara air show, scheduled between September 22 and October 2. The Karnataka government hopes to feature aerial displays by the Surya Kiran and Sarang teams, continuing a tradition that draws thousands of spectators.
The Chief Minister of Karnataka Siddaramaiah and DCM DK Shivakumar called on Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh in New Delhi. pic.twitter.com/MxBzA6d3G1
— ANI (@ANI) July 9, 2025
“We formally requested the Indian Air Force’s participation,” Siddaramaiah confirmed. The leaders also urged the Defense Ministry to release defense land in Bengaluru for infrastructure expansion, including road widening and public access improvements.
Irrigation Push: Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar Meet Rajnath Singh Amid Broader Talks
Beyond defense matters, DK Shivakumar, who also serves as Karnataka’s Water Resources Minister, met Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil to seek ₹11,122 crore in central assistance for six major irrigation projects. These include the Kalasa-Banduri and Yettinahole schemes, which aim to serve drought-prone districts.
“We’ve submitted a memorandum and requested early forest clearance to resume stalled works,” Shivakumar said, referring to delays in Tumakuru and Hassan districts.
Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar dismissed the CM change rumors. “There is no vacancy in the CM’s post. We are here to work for Karnataka,” Shivakumar stated. The duo is also expected to meet Congress high command, including Rahul Gandhi, later this week.