The Karnataka government unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing artificial intelligence (AI) education, research, and technology infrastructure during the presentation of its 2026–27 Budget on Friday. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced these initiatives as part of the state’s commitment to strengthen its role in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
One of the notable initiatives includes the introduction of an AI-based personalized digital tutor for students in Classes 8 to 12, developed in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Dharwad. The facility is projected to serve approximately 12.28 lakh students at an estimated cost of ₹5 crore. Siddaramaiah emphasized the importance of this initiative in providing tailored educational support to students, helping them navigate their learning journeys more effectively.
In addition to educational resources, the government plans to establish the “Bangalore Robotics and AI Innovation Zone,” a dedicated campus for robotics and artificial intelligence. This facility will be developed under the AI and Robotics Technology Park initiative at the Indian Institute of Science, in partnership with the Indian Space Research Organisation and the Karnataka State Electronics Development Corporation Limited. The establishment of this innovation zone signals Karnataka’s ambition to become a global hub for cutting-edge technology.
A Centre of Excellence for artificial intelligence is also set to be established at the International Institute of Information Technology Raichur, with an allocation of ₹5 crore. This center will facilitate advanced research and development in AI, further solidifying the state’s commitment to fostering innovation in this critical field.
The Karnataka government also announced plans for additional AI research initiatives in Bengaluru. Two Centres of Excellence will be developed in collaboration with the Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms, and NASSCOM, with a combined budget of ₹16 crore. These centers aim to enhance research capabilities and promote collaborative efforts across various sectors.
Apart from AI-focused projects, the budget outlines investments in other emerging technologies and scientific research. An allocation of ₹4 crore has been earmarked for the development of an advanced surgical-assisted robot, or COBOT, in partnership with the International Institute of Information Technology Bangalore and the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences. This advanced system is designed to improve outcomes in neurosurgical procedures, showcasing the intersection of technology and healthcare.
Further infrastructure investments will see ₹20 crore allocated to the Centre for Human Genetics for the establishment of the Institute of Advanced Genome Editing and Gene Therapy, along with other biotechnology laboratories. This initiative highlights the state’s commitment to advancing medical research and innovation.
Moreover, the first phase of the Karnataka Quantum Road Map will be implemented, with an allocation of ₹10 crore over five years designated for training specialized human resources in the quantum technology sector. This forward-looking approach aims to prepare the workforce for the next wave of technological advancements.
The state has also submitted a detailed project report to the central government for the establishment of a Science City in Adinarayana Hosahalli, Bengaluru, with an estimated cost of ₹233 crore. The government plans to advance the design and development of this project pending approval, further indicating its commitment to fostering a robust scientific ecosystem.
During his address, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah highlighted Karnataka’s significant role in the technology sector, noting that the state accounts for 43% of India’s IT exports. Under the IT Policy 2025–30, software exports are projected to reach ₹11.5 lakh crore by 2030. Furthermore, Karnataka has improved its global ranking in the start-up ecosystem, moving from 21st to 14th place and currently hosting over 18,000 active start-ups. Bengaluru has also been ranked 5th among the world’s top 50 AI cities in the fields of AI and Big Data, underscoring the region’s prominence in technology innovation.
These initiatives collectively position Karnataka as a leader in AI education and research, as well as a critical player in the global technology landscape. The government’s strategic investments and partnerships reflect an ambition to shape the future of technology in the state and foster an environment conducive to innovation and growth.
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