Nara Lokesh Invites IT Firms to Visakhapatnam Amid Karnataka's Job Quota Controversy

Andhra Pradesh Minister and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader Nara Lokesh has extended an invitation to Nasscom members, offering them "best-in-class facilities" if they consider relocating to Visakhapatnam (Vizag). This move comes in response to concerns raised by the software industry body following the Karnataka cabinet's approval of a controversial bill mandating local job quotas.

In a statement on X, Lokesh assured that Andhra Pradesh is ready to welcome tech firms with a promise of top-notch facilities, uninterrupted power, robust infrastructure, and a skilled workforce without government-imposed restrictions. His offer is seen as a strategic effort to attract businesses from Karnataka, where the recent 'Karnataka State Employment of Local Candidates in the Industries, Factories and Other Establishments Bill' has sparked controversy.

The bill mandates a 50 percent reservation for Kannadigas in administrative positions and 75 percent for non-administrative roles within private industries. This legislation, announced by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has faced criticism from industry leaders who warn that it could undermine Karnataka's technological edge and hinder the growth of startups.

Nasscom has expressed concerns that the bill might drive companies away and create a shortage of local skilled talent, potentially leading to business relocations.

In response, Karnataka ministers Priyank Kharge and MB Patil have clarified that the bill is still in the proposal stage and has yet to be finalized. They assured that further discussions with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will be held to address industry concerns and avoid jeopardizing the state’s competitive position in the global market.