To provide opportunities for local candidates in industries, factories, and other establishments in the state, the Karnataka government has announced a bill to provide reservations to local candidates in private sector jobs.
According to the Karnataka State Employment of Local Candidates in Industries, Factories, and Other Establishments draft bill, 2024, establishments, including information technology companies, must have 50 percent of management jobs and 70 percent of non-management roles to be reserved for local candidates. Those violating the norm will invite a penalty ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 25,000. The draft bill is expected to be tabled in the current legislative session.
Those domiciled in the state and can read, write, and speak Kannada are eligible for the reservation. Candidates who do not have a secondary school certificate in Kannada must pass a specified Kannada proficiency test.
Industries/factories/establishments need to collaborate with government agencies to train and engage local talent if they do not have sufficient qualified candidates within three years.
Haryana announced offering 75% reservations to local candidates in private sector jobs earlier. However, it was set aside by the Punjab and Haryana High Court in November 2023.