Karnataka intends to lead in the AI economy: KDEM

Sanjeev Kumar Gupta, CEO, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission, recently commented on the Karnataka state budget 2026. 

Sanjeev Kumar Gupta, KDEM, stated: “Today's budget is Karnataka's clearest signal yet: this state doesn't just participate in the AI economy, it intends to lead it. The Bangalore Robotics and AI Innovation Zone, AI Centers of Excellence, and the Beyond Bengaluru vision all reflect a Karnataka that is innovative, inclusive, and unstoppable. We also appreciate the Government of Karnataka's continued focus on strengthening cities such as Mysuru, Mangaluru, and the Hubballi-Dharwad-Belagavi corridor, which are increasingly attracting technology investments, and new businesses under the Beyond Bengaluru mission. 

"Equally significant is how industry challenges around talent readiness are now translating into concrete initiatives. The  launch of Karnataka Skill Intelligence and Strategy Unit (KSISU), being established under the Karnataka Skill Development Authority in collaboration with KDEM, will bring a data-driven approach to workforce planning, while the Super 100 Industry-Academia Adoption Program will deepen our long-term partnerships between industry and academia. 

"With India's skilled workforce still around 4-5%, every rupee invested in skilling creates a multiplier effect for employability, innovation capacity and economic productivity. As Karnataka continues to lead the country with over 550 Global Capability Centers, the expansion of technology investments into cities like Mangaluru will create a powerful cycle of global investment, local talent development, and high-value employment. 

"Mangaluru already holds strong advantages in ports, logistics, academic institutions, and a growing technology talent base, positioning it well to attract GCCs and deep-tech innovation. The announcement of a new IT Park to promote Global Capability Centers, along with a biotechnology-focused Centre of Excellence at the Fisheries College, reflects the Government of Karnataka’s continued commitment to building specialized innovation clusters beyond Bengaluru. 

"KDEM will work closely with the Government and industry partners to translate these initiatives into tangible outcomes and accelerate the next phase of Karnataka’s digital economy growth."