Karnataka bets on AI, nanotech, quantum tech to drive next growth phase
Karnataka is positioning itself to lead India's next phase of deep technology-driven growth by prioritising artificial intelligence (AI), nanotechnology, biotechnology, quantum technologies and semiconductors, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said on August 4 in Bengaluru.
Speaking at the inauguration of the 14th edition of Bangalore Nano India, an annual nanotechnology exposition sponsored by the State Government, Mr. Shivakumar asserted that the State was keen to leverage its established innovation ecosystem to emerge as a global hub for deep-technology research and commercialisation.
He emphasised that real technological leadership would increasingly depend on the convergence of AI, advanced materials, biotechnology and quantum sciences, rather than any single discipline.
The Chief Minister urged a large audience of researchers, industry leaders, start-up founders, and academicians to work together to translate scientific discoveries into products and solutions with societal and commercial impact.
“The future will be shaped by artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, biotechnology and quantum technology. Today, we are seeing rapid advances in semiconductors and advanced materials. Karnataka is determined to lead this technological transformation,” he stated.
Describing nanotechnology as a foundational technology rather than a niche scientific discipline, Mr. Shivakumar said its applications were expanding across healthcare, electronics, agriculture, mobility, defence, aerospace and energy.
“Nanotechnology is no longer confined to laboratories. It is creating a bigger future for all of us,” he said.
Encouraging scientists to move beyond academic research and focus on innovation that addresses practical challenges, he said, “We want research papers to become commercial products. We want start-ups and innovators to solve real-world problems.”
According to him, Karnataka is positioned to become the world's premier destination for deep-technology innovation, and the State's scientific ecosystem offered the necessary talent, research capability and entrepreneurial culture to lead emerging technologies.
Recalling the historical origins of Bengaluru's scientific ecosystem, he referred to the establishment of the Indian Institute of Science following the vision of Jamsetji Tata and Swami Vivekananda, saying the institution had laid the foundation for the city's emergence as India's technology capital.
The Chief Minister also said Bengaluru has become an attractive destination for global investments owing to its cosmopolitan environment, scientific institutions, and skilled workforce. He added that Karnataka was increasingly being viewed as a preferred destination for investments in semiconductors, global capability centres (GCCs), and advanced manufacturing.
Acknowledging Bengaluru's infrastructure challenges, particularly traffic congestion, Mr. Shivakumar said the government was investing in mobility projects, including a major expansion of the Namma Metro network, with the long-term goal of developing nearly 500 km of metro connectivity alongside satellite townships.
Despite these challenges, Bengaluru continues to be regarded globally as a safe and attractive destination for technology investments, he claimed.
“The world is looking at Bengaluru. We will continue to provide good governance, and create an ecosystem where innovation can thrive. As Bengaluru grows, Karnataka grows. As Karnataka grows, India grows,” he added.
