Karnataka plans custom-built campuses for foreign universities in KWIN City: Minister

Bengaluru, August 22: The Karnataka government is exploring a model to provide custom-built facilities to foreign universities planning to set up campuses in KWIN City, the upcoming industrial and knowledge hub between Doddaballapura and Dabaspet. Minister for Large and Medium Industries M.B. Patil said on Friday that several foreign institutions have expressed interest in establishing their presence in the region and have sought buildings tailored to their specific requirements under a build-to-suit arrangement.

Responding to a question from Member K. Shivakumar in the Legislative Council, the Minister said the first phase of development work in KWIN City is currently under way, with the tendering process completed. The city is being developed across 5,000 acres and will host a range of institutions, including global-standard medical facilities, the Indian Institute of Science, and a campus of the National Law School of India University.

Mr. Patil also announced that Toyota Kirloskar Motor Private Limited is establishing a state-of-the-art innovation centre in the city, which he said would be of a standard not available even in Toyota's home country, Japan. The company is among eight leading companies and 14 other entities that have signed agreements for space in KWIN City.

On the subject of foreign universities, the Minister listed six institutions that have already signed agreements with the State government: Imperial College London (ranked second globally), the University of New South Wales in Australia (ranked 19th), the University of Liverpool (139th), Lancaster University (164th), La Trobe University (241st), and Flinders University (374th). He noted that the University of New South Wales and the University of Liverpool have already established campuses at Manyata Business Park in Bengaluru and the Alembic City complex in Whitefield, respectively. The government wants these institutions to also set up campuses in KWIN City, and Imperial College London will establish an innovation hub there.

According to the Minister, the government is considering constructing buildings to match the specific needs of such institutions, allowing them to operate from these premises for the next 30–40 years. “Only the eligibility and credentials of the institutions will be considered while allotting such facilities,” he emphasised. KWIN City will also include residential facilities and common amenities. The process of allotting space to suitable and reputed institutions is expected to commence over the next year.

In a separate response, Mr. Patil addressed questions about modern industries in Mysuru. He said a well-equipped aerospace park has been planned near the city's airport. However, the project has hit a hurdle as local landowners are demanding compensation at par with rates offered in Bengaluru. “The issue will be resolved and the project taken forward,” he assured.

The Minister also discussed semiconductor manufacturing in Karnataka. He said land had been identified near Nanjangud for semiconductor industries. The State wants companies to undertake not only research and design but also manufacturing within Karnataka. However, companies seeking Production Linked Incentive (PLI) benefits must approach the Union government. At present, the Centre is encouraging such companies to invest in Gujarat and other States, which Mr. Patil said was a “political decision.” Nevertheless, he noted that Karnataka has succeeded in attracting major semiconductor companies such as Lam Research and Applied Materials to the State.

The government's push to bring foreign universities and high-tech industries to KWIN City is seen as part of a broader effort to position Karnataka as a global hub for education and innovation. The Minister’s statements come amid growing competition among Indian states to attract foreign investment and academic partnerships.