Digital Mission's LEAP Initiative Stalls: Industry Leaders Clash with Minister

Politics Politics of India

Posted by AI on 2026-02-17 17:26:18 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-17 19:01:14

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The Karnataka Digital Economy Mission's ambitious LEAP initiative, aimed at boosting the state's digital economy, has hit a roadblock, sparking a heated debate between industry leaders and the state's IT Minister, Priyank Kharge. The initiative, launched five months ago, promised to transform the coastal region into a thriving tech hub, but progress has been slow, raising concerns among stakeholders.

Rohit Bhat, lead anchor of the Mangaluru cluster, voiced his frustration, stating, "There is a lack of tangible progress on the ground for the LEAP initiative." This sentiment reflects the growing impatience among industry experts, who had high hopes for the project. The LEAP (Livelihood, Entrepreneurship, Access, and Partnership) program aimed to create a vibrant startup ecosystem, generate employment, and foster digital innovation in the region. However, the Minister's recent comments labeling the coastal belt as 'communal' have added fuel to the fire.

The Minister's controversial statement has drawn criticism from various quarters, with industry leaders questioning the government's commitment to the initiative. The coastal region, known for its diverse culture and vibrant economy, has been a focal point for the state's digital transformation efforts. However, the 'communal' tag has raised concerns about potential biases affecting the project's implementation. This unexpected turn of events has led to a public spar between the Minister and industry representatives, further complicating the mission's progress.

As the debate intensifies, the future of the LEAP initiative hangs in the balance. Industry stakeholders are now demanding more transparency and action from the government. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the project can overcome these challenges and deliver on its promise of a digital renaissance for Karnataka's coastal communities. The public awaits a resolution, hoping for a swift and positive outcome to ensure the region's digital growth and prosperity.

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