Overview
The Karnataka cabinet has decided to rename Bengaluru City University after former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to honor his contributions to Bengaluru's infrastructure and education. The cabinet also approved the second phase of development for the university's North Campus.
Renaming of Bengaluru City University
- Karnataka cabinet approved renaming Bengaluru City University after former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
- The decision is intended as a tribute to Singh's contributions to Bengaluru's growth and development.
Manmohan Singh's Contributions to Bengaluru
- In 2006, Singh laid the foundation for several key infrastructure projects in Bengaluru, including the Metro and elevated highways.
- He initiated the Bangalore-Electronic City elevated highway to link the city with its IT and manufacturing hub.
- Oversaw road expansion projects like the six-laning of the Bengaluru-Nelamangala NH4, including a 4-km elevated corridor.
- Laid the foundation for Bengaluru Metro, jointly funded by state and central governments at a cost of Rs 6,000 crore.
- In 2011, Singh inaugurated the first stretch of Namma Metro.
- In 2008, he inaugurated Kempegowda International Airport, now the third busiest in India.
- Singh was invited to teach the first batch at Dr BR Ambedkar School of Economics in 2017 and addressed IIM Bangalore's 16th convocation in the 1990s.
North Campus Development of Bengaluru City University
- Cabinet approved the second phase of development at the university's North Campus in Amaravati village, Sidlaghatta taluk.
- Phase 2 has an estimated cost of Rs 123.50 crore, following Phase 1’s Rs 91 crore investment.
- The new phase covers further infrastructure; funding will come from internal university resources with a government grant.
- Karnataka Housing Board will execute the project with oversight from the vice-chancellor and competent authorities.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Elevated Corridor — A raised roadway constructed to ease traffic congestion in urban areas.
- Namma Metro — The mass rapid transit system serving Bengaluru.
- Kempegowda International Airport — The main airport serving Bengaluru, one of India’s busiest.
- Administrative Block — Central building for university management and administration.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Monitor official university communications for updates about the renaming and campus development.
- Stay informed about potential changes to signage, documentation, and university branding following the renaming.