The Karnataka state government has taken a significant step towards becoming a global hub for artificial intelligence by signing a Letter of Intent with the World Economic Forum (WEF) on February 29 to establish a state-of-the-art AI centre in the state.

This initiative marks a strategic move to integrate Karnataka into the WEF’s Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) Network, a global platform focused on inclusive technology governance and responsible digital transformation.

As stated by the office of Karnataka’s IT-BT minister, Priyank Kharge, the new AI centre in Karnataka will be the WEF’s sole dedicated hub for AI in India. “The centre’s primary focus will be to position Karnataka as a prominent global hub for Artificial Intelligence,” the minister’s office stated.

The centre is expected to play a crucial role in fostering industry-academia networks, facilitating the exchange of technological trends, encouraging research collaboration, and addressing global challenges.

In addition to promoting research and development, the centre aims to support and nurture AI startups in Karnataka by providing a globally connected platform for collaboration and networking within the AI domain.

Minister Kharge emphasised the state’s commitment to AI as a key driver for the growth of the digital economy, investments, and jobs. “Bengaluru has earned recognition as one of the top five cities globally for Artificial Intelligence. With our skilled talent pool and thriving innovation ecosystem, our state hosts numerous companies and startups dedicated to deep tech and AI,” Kharge said.

Jeremy Jurgens, managing director of the WEF, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are delighted to collaborate with Karnataka on the Centre for Artificial Intelligence. Bengaluru has been at the forefront of innovation, and we hope to support its leadership to demonstrate the potential of AI for economic growth and social prosperity.”

The establishment of the AI centre is poised to enhance Karnataka’s stature as a leader in the field of AI, contributing to the worldwide discourse on the ethical and practical dimensions of AI while also boosting the local economy through innovation and job creation.