Karnataka CM D.K. Shivakumar addressing the gathering after inaugurating ‘Google I/O Connect India 2026’ in Bengaluru

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Nalme Nachiyar

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, while inaugurating Google I/O Connect India 2026 in Bengaluru on Tuesday, announced that state will establish India’s first government-driven Artificial Intelligence (AI) University. Shivakumar claimed that the proposed university would play a pivotal role in building world-class AI talent, advancing research and strengthening collaboration between academia, industry and government.Moreover, he 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.“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,” said Shivakumar.Shivakumar stated that the state’s first ambition is to become an AI-native state, where AI 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.Partnership with GoogleThe CM 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, Shivakumar invited Google to collaborate with Karnataka in building AI solutions for education, healthcare, agriculture, climate resilience, urban mobility and governance.He outlined five key areas for collaboration: developing AI tools for education, healthcare, agriculture and small businesses; supporting start-ups solving Indian challenges at scale; expanding AI learning opportunities for students across Karnataka; making the state a global laboratory for responsible technology; and deepening Google’s commitment as a long-term ecosystem partner.Published on July 14, 2026