< Honorable Minister for IT/BT and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj />

Shri. Priyank M Kharge

Honourable Shri Priyank Kharge, born on November 22, 1978, in Gundagurthi village, Chittapur Taluk, Kalburgi district, is the son of Shri Mallikarjun Kharge and Smt. Radha Bai Kharge.

As a professional in graphic design and animation, he has worked with numerous organizations both in India and abroad. With a deep interest and expertise in technology, he has contributed to GIS-based solutions, mobile technology and the creation of original IP for animation studios. Additionally, he has been instrumental in founding several startups.

In the 2013 Assembly elections, he was elected as MLA for the first time, representing the Chittapur constituency in Kalburgi district. He has maintained his success by winning the 2018 and 2023 elections from the same constituency, a third consecutive term as MLA. In 2016, he joined the Cabinet as the youngest minister, overseeing the portfolios of IT, BT and Tourism. In the 2018 coalition government, he also served as the Minister for Social Welfare.

As the Minister for IT, BT and Tourism, he played a pivotal role in establishing the ‘Brand Bengaluru’ legacy by initiating various programs to strengthen the state's startup and innovation ecosystem. He also introduced groundbreaking concepts in the aviation and aerospace sectors. In his role as the Minister of Social Welfare, he launched the "Airavata" scheme, focused on empowering socially and economically disadvantaged youth. He has earned a reputation as a compassionate minister for the youth through initiatives focused on enlightenment, progress, advancement, and prosperity.

With a reputation for innovative perspectives and thinking beyond traditional frameworks, Shri Priyank Kharge has taken the oath as the Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, as well as the Minister for Information Technology in the new government. He also serves as the District In-charge Minister for Kalburgi. In his role with the Information Technology Department, he has travelled to countries in America and Europe.