Sunil Lohan
1
.It is a great privilege to address you all at the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024.
2.This summit stands as a unique platform for innovation, technology advancement,and global collaboration.
3.I am honored to represent Karnataka -a state leading India’s technological transformation.
4.In the early 20th century,Bengaluru emerged as a hub for aerospace and defense manufacturing due to its strategic location,setting the stage for its industrial growth.
5.Under the visionary leadership of Shri S.M. Krishna in the early 2000s,Bengaluru transformed with initiatives like Electronic City and IT parks,laying the groundwork for the city’s global tech reputation.
6.Today,Bengaluru is internationally recognized for its influence in software,biotechnology,aerospace,and advanced manufacturing,establishing itself as one of the fastest-growing cities worldwide.
7.Karnataka’s vast talent pool,flourishing startup ecosystem,and robust infrastructure continue to fuel advancements in IT,deep tech,biotechnology,and life sciences.
8.Our commitment to nurturing innovation,sustainability, and inclusive growth remains steadfast as we build upon this proud legacy.
9.Karnataka has launched India’s first dedicated Global Capability Centres (GCC) policy, aimed at empowering and supporting these centers.Taking the policy announcement forward,I am proud to announce that we will be establishing 3 dedicated global innovation districts in Bengaluru,Mysuru and Belagavi.These will be dedicated parks for GCCs to set up shop here in the state.
10.The Bengaluru Global Innovation District will be part of the Knowledge,Wellbeing,and Innovation City (KWIN City),located just 45 minutes from Kempegowda International Airport,which will serve as a global hub for innovation and research.
11.Our state is a preferred destination for GCCs, thanks to its unmatched engineering talent and the highest number of AI professionals globally.This will further be strengthened by our initiatives under NIPUNA Karnataka which will be a program designed to create industry ready workforce.The 5 MoUs signed just now, with Microsoft,Intel,Accenture,IBM and BFSI Consortium are going to skill 1 lakh individuals in the state of Karnataka.
12.Through a cluster-based approach,we are driving balanced regional growth,from Mangaluru’s fintech leadership and Hubli-Dharwad’s advancements in EVs and drones-to Mysuru being a PCB cluster.
13.We are tailoring policies and infrastructure to harness regional strengths and attract investments to emerging clusters also along with our focus on Bengaluru.
14.Our government has made significant investments in physical and digital infrastructure to bolster tech-driven sectors.
15.Initiatives like the Namma Grama Namma Raste program for rural connectivity and the Special Development Programme are enhancing accessibility and economic opportunities across Karnataka.
16.We believe in extending the benefits of growth beyond the tech sector through programs like ‘Beyond Bengaluru,’which bring technology to rural areas, increase agricultural productivity, and improve e-education for students and positively impact delivery of all citizen services.
17.Karnataka’s startup ecosystem has seen remarkable growth, with an 18.2% increase from 2022 to 2023, totaling 3,036 startups and making our state a leader with 8.7% of India’s total startups.This success reflects our strong support and vibrant opportunities for entrepreneurs.
18.Our collaboration with the Indian Venture and Alternate Capital Association (IVCA) has connected more than 200 startups with 100 funding firms, providing capital, mentorship, and growth opportunities.
19.True success lies in inclusive growth-ensuring that all citizens in both Bengaluru and Karnataka benefit from this transformation.
20.I am delighted to announce the Electronics Manufacturing Cluster (EMC) in Kochanahalli,which will strengthen Karnataka’s role in the global semiconductor industry, creating jobs and driving economic growth in both urban and rural regions.
21.Karnataka’s longstanding reputation as a land of innovation and entrepreneurship has been built on the foundations laid by our visionary leaders and industry pioneers.
22.We are dedicated to expanding this legacy, ensuring Karnataka remains a global leader in technology and progress.
23. Thank you for joining us on this journey of innovation, collaboration, and growth. Together, we will continue to drive the transformation of Karnataka and beyond.
