New Delhi: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday met Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in the national capital and submitted a series of proposals aimed at strengthening defence-related infrastructure and public engagement in the state.

During the high-level meeting, Siddaramaiah sought the Defence Ministry’s approval to organise an aerial display by the Indian Air Force during the upcoming Mysuru Dasara celebrations, scheduled to be held from September 22 to October 2. The Chief Minister, in his letter to the Union Minister, noted that air shows conducted in previous years—particularly in 2017, 2019, and 2023—had received overwhelming public response and added vibrancy to the cultural festival.

The Defence Minister is reported to have given in-principle approval for the air show, which may feature aerobatic teams such as Surya Kiran and Sarang.

In a significant move, Siddaramaiah also urged the Centre to consider setting up a dedicated defence corridor in Karnataka, similar to the existing corridors in Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh. He emphasized that Bengaluru, with its existing ecosystem of aerospace and defence industries, is well-positioned to host such a corridor. He requested the allocation of land under the Defence Department to facilitate the initiative.

“Establishing a defence corridor in Karnataka will not only enhance national security preparedness but also boost local manufacturing and generate employment opportunities,” Siddaramaiah reportedly said during the meeting.

Apart from defence-related issues, the Chief Minister also appealed for the transfer of Defence Ministry land for key infrastructure projects in the state. These include the construction of a tunnel road, a link road along the Airport–Bellary Road, and a proposed double-decker flyover—all of which are aimed at easing Bengaluru’s growing traffic challenges.

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar accompanied Siddaramaiah during the meeting. The two leaders are also expected to meet other central officials and Congress high command leaders during their stay in Delhi, where discussions on administrative appointments and pending development works are likely.

The meeting assumes importance in the backdrop of Karnataka’s push to modernise its infrastructure while leveraging its strategic role in India's defence and aerospace sectors.