Hey learners,
In a significant decision, the Karnataka Cabinet has approved renaming Bengaluru City University to Dr. Manmohan Singh City University. This move honors India’s former Prime Minister and economic reformer, Dr. Manmohan Singh, and marks the first time a state-run university in India carries his name.
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| AI Generated Representation | Karnataka Renames Bengaluru City University as Dr. Manmohan Singh City University |
Why Rename?
The government of Karnataka chose this tribute to acknowledge Dr. Singh’s transformative role in shaping India's modern economy. His leadership during the 1991 economic liberalisation paved the way for rapid growth in industries such as IT, pharmaceuticals, and infrastructure .
In particular, Dr. Singh was instrumental in launching several major projects in Bengaluru, such as the Bangalore–Electronic City elevated highway, the six-lane NH‑4 corridor, the initial phase of Namma Metro, and the inauguration of the Kempegowda International Airport in 2008.
Official Announcements
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced the decision after the Cabinet’s meeting at Nandi Hills, calling Dr. Singh a “visionary leader” whose policies helped shape Bengaluru into a global center for education, innovation, and infrastructure.
Earlier, CM Siddaramaiah had declared in his March 2025 budget that the university would be renamed to honour Dr. Singh’s legacy. Additionally, Deputy CM D. K. Shivakumar revealed plans for a dedicated research and study centre at the university to highlight Dr. Singh’s economic reforms.
Broader Reforms and Reactions
Along with this renaming, the state government also approved renaming Bengaluru Rural district to Bengaluru North and Bagepalli taluk to Bhagyanagara.
On the whole, reactions have been mixed. Supporters appreciate the acknowledgement of Dr. Singh’s national contributions and legacy. Critics, however, argue that naming should favor local Kannada identities and individuals connected directly to Karnataka.
The Path Ahead
Now called Dr. Manmohan Singh Bengaluru City University, the institution will integrate Government Arts College and Government RC College as constituent colleges, expanding its reach.
Plans are in motion to develop academic infrastructure under the new name, including the proposed research centre focused on Dr. Singh’s policy achievements.
This renaming marks a historic milestone: the first public university named after Dr. Manmohan Singh, celebrating his pivotal role in India’s economic transformation and key contributions to Bengaluru’s development. Whether it bridges local pride with national respect remains a question of public debate—but undeniably, this decision places Dr. Singh’s legacy prominently on Karnataka’s educational map.