Karnataka will establish India’s first government-driven Artificial Intelligence (AI) University, announced Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. He also announced that the government will set up an AI Hub as an incubation centre for research and development in AI by start-ups, companies, and others.
After inaugurating ‘Google I/O Connect India 2026’ in Bengaluru on July 14, Mr. Shivakumar said the proposed university would play a pivotal role in building world-class AI talent, advancing research and strengthening collaboration between academia, industry and government.
Addressing technology leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, developers, researchers and policymakers from across India and the world, the Chief Minister said Artificial Intelligence is the defining technological revolution of the present generation, comparable to the transformative impact of the steam engine, electricity, the internet and mobile technology.
“Bengaluru is not just India’s technology capital, but one of the world’s most vibrant innovation ecosystems. Karnataka’s vision is to build one of the world’s leading centres for responsible Artificial Intelligence,” he said.
Mr. Shivakumar said Karnataka contributes nearly 40% of India’s software exports, while Bengaluru is home to over 17,000 start-ups and Global Capability Centres.
He said the State’s ambition is to become an AI-native State, where Artificial Intelligence is used responsibly to improve governance and everyday lives rather than remaining a technological slogan. “AI must help teachers teach better, doctors diagnose diseases earlier, farmers receive better advisory services, citizens access government services with dignity and speed, and small businesses compete confidently,” he said.
The Chief Minister praised Google for its long-standing partnership with Karnataka, noting that, for over two decades, the company has chosen Bengaluru as one of its most important global centres for engineering, research and innovation.
Calling for a stronger partnership, Mr. Shivakumar invited Google to collaborate with Karnataka in building AI solutions for education, healthcare, agriculture, climate resilience, urban mobility, and governance. He said Karnataka would continue shaping the future of technology while ensuring AI remains innovative, inclusive and trusted.
Published - July 14, 2026 11:44 am IST