Bengaluru, 4 August

Bengaluru will lead the world’s deep tech revolution, said Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Tuesday, as he said that Karnataka is focusing on nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, biotechnology and quantum technologies.

Speaking after inaugurating Bengaluru India Nano 2026 here, Shivakumar said Karnataka's strong ecosystem of premier research institutions, startups, multinational R&D centres and universities gives it a unique advantage in emerging as a global destination for deep-tech innovation.

"Nanotechnology is no longer confined to research laboratories. It has become a foundational technology transforming healthcare, electronics, energy, agriculture, mobility, aerospace, defence and advanced manufacturing," he said.

The future will be shaped by the convergence of artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, biotechnology, quantum technologies, semiconductors and advanced materials, he added. 

"Today, nations are competing not merely for investments but for scientific leadership. Whoever leads (in that) will shape the global economy of the coming decades," he said.

Paying tribute to Maharajas of Mysuru, Shivakumar also urged global companies to move beyond routine operations in Bengaluru.

"The GCCs of the future should file patents here, not merely close tickets here," he said. He urged academic institutions to place greater emphasis on patenting innovations and partnering with industry early to solve real-world problems.

IT/BT Minister Priyank Kharge noted that Bengaluru is positioned to lead the transformation because of its “strong research institutions, thriving startup ecosystem and progressive policy environment”.