Karnataka CM Addresses CEOs, Highlights Investment Opportunities In State

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Friday invited industry leaders to partner with the state government in shaping the next phase of economic and technological growth. Addressing CEOs in Bengaluru, Shivakumar outlined plans to expand the state’s technology ecosystem beyond the capital city, develop world-class infrastructure, establish an AI University with industry participation, and introduce policies aimed at strengthening innovation and investment.

Highlighting Bengaluru’s position as India’s technology hub, Shivakumar said the city’s biggest strength lies in its talent pool, entrepreneurial culture, and innovation ecosystem. He credited the companies and professionals who have contributed to Bengaluru’s growth and told industry leaders that they represent the identity and success of Karnataka’s technology sector.

The Chief Minister said Karnataka’s software exports had crossed Rs 4.36 lakh crore and were expected to surpass Rs 5.5 lakh crore this year. He noted that behind these figures were millions of professionals, young engineers, and innovators contributing to economic growth. He also said Global Capability Centres in Karnataka had evolved from support operations into major centres for research, product development, and advanced technology work.

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Shivakumar announced that the state government would introduce a policy within the next 100 days to encourage companies to establish operations outside Bengaluru. The initiative aims to provide affordable, high-quality office infrastructure in other cities of Karnataka and promote balanced development across regions. He said cities such as Mysuru, Hubballi-Dharwad, Mangaluru, and Belagavi should emerge as important technology and investment destinations.

The Chief Minister said Karnataka had introduced new IT, Space Technology, and Startup policies focused on deep technology, digital infrastructure, research, entrepreneurship, and collaboration between industries and academic institutions. He also highlighted the state’s Quantum Roadmap and announced plans to build an AI University in partnership with industry leaders, with the goal of expanding AI education opportunities, including for rural students from Class 6 onwards.

Shivakumar also announced initiatives such as the Bengaluru Robotics and Innovation Zone and the Sustainable Data Centre Policy 2026-31 to support future-ready digital infrastructure. He urged companies to contribute to social development by adopting government schools under Corporate Social Responsibility programmes and improving facilities, teacher training, and learning outcomes.

Addressing Bengaluru’s infrastructure and mobility challenges, the Chief Minister said the government was working seriously to address concerns while seeking greater cooperation from industry. He invited CEOs to participate in the Bengaluru Tech Summit scheduled from November 17 to 19, describing it as a platform for partnerships, policy discussions, and business outcomes.

Concluding his address, Shivakumar said Karnataka was seeking long-term partnerships rather than short-term investments. He assured industry leaders that the government would remain open to suggestions and work together with businesses to strengthen the state’s economic future. The event was attended by IT and BT Minister Priyank Kharge, KIONICS Chairman Sharath Bachegowda, Biocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, entrepreneur Kris Gopalakrishnan, and other industry representatives.

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