AI – Karnataka Unveils Plan for India’s First Government-Led Artificial Intelligence University
AI –Karnataka has announced an ambitious initiative to strengthen its position in the technology sector by setting up India’s first government-backed Artificial Intelligence University along with a dedicated AI Hub. The announcement was made by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Tuesday while addressing the Google I/O Connect India 2026 event at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC). The proposed institutions are expected to expand AI research, encourage innovation and prepare skilled professionals for emerging technologies.
AI University to Focus on Research and Talent Development
Speaking at the event, Shivakumar said the upcoming AI University will be designed to develop highly skilled professionals capable of contributing to global technological advancements. The institution will support advanced research and create opportunities for collaboration between educational institutions, industry leaders and government agencies. According to him, the university will play an important role in building a strong ecosystem that supports innovation and long-term growth in artificial intelligence.
Alongside the university, the state government also plans to establish an AI Hub that will serve as a centre for research, product development and startup incubation. The facility is expected to provide companies, entrepreneurs, researchers and technology innovators with a platform to develop and test AI-based solutions.
Vision to Build an AI-Native Karnataka
The Chief Minister described artificial intelligence as one of the most significant technological transformations of the current era. He said Karnataka aims to evolve into an AI-native state by integrating AI across government systems to improve public administration and citizen services.
He explained that the technology should be used to enhance education, strengthen healthcare, support farmers with timely information, improve access to government services and create better opportunities for small businesses. According to Shivakumar, responsible adoption of AI can make public services more efficient while ensuring they remain accessible to all sections of society.
Bengaluru’s Strong Technology Ecosystem
Highlighting Karnataka’s contribution to India’s digital economy, Shivakumar noted that the state accounts for nearly 40 percent of the country’s software exports. He also pointed out that Bengaluru continues to be one of the country’s leading technology centres, hosting more than 17,000 startups along with a large number of Global Capability Centres operated by multinational companies.
To sustain future growth, the state government plans to continue investing in digital infrastructure, including modern data centres that can support artificial intelligence, cloud computing and advanced computing requirements. These investments are expected to strengthen Karnataka’s capacity to attract technology companies and research organisations.
Call for Stronger Collaboration with Google
During his address, Shivakumar invited Google to expand its engagement with Karnataka by working together on AI-driven projects across several sectors. He identified education, healthcare, agriculture, climate resilience, urban mobility and public governance as priority areas where artificial intelligence could deliver meaningful benefits.
The Chief Minister also encouraged Google to contribute towards strengthening the state’s startup ecosystem, increase AI learning opportunities for students and support initiatives that can position Karnataka as a globally recognised destination for responsible artificial intelligence innovation.
Encouraging Responsible Innovation
Concluding his speech, Shivakumar urged developers, researchers, entrepreneurs and students to actively participate in shaping the next phase of technological progress. He stressed that innovation should be guided by principles of responsibility, inclusiveness and public trust so that artificial intelligence benefits society as a whole while addressing future challenges in a balanced and ethical manner.