IIT Dharwad to Host New CoEs as Karnataka Invests in Quantum AI and Defence Tech

Karnataka has approved ₹36 crore to establish two Centres of Excellence (CoEs) — one in Quantum Artificial Intelligence & Computing and another in Defence Technology & Industry 5.0 — under its Local Economy Accelerator Program (LEAP). These will be located at IIT Dharwad and IIIT Dharwad, aiming to boost deeptech innovation in North Karnataka.

Key highlights of the initiative

• Funding & scope:
  • Total allocation: ₹36 crore (₹18 crore each).
  • Part of the LEAP initiative, which has a budget of ₹200 crore this year and ₹1,000 crore over five years.
• Quantum AI & Computing CoE:
  • Partner: IIT Dharwad Research Park Foundation.
  • Focus: Training 1,000 specialists, building faculty capacity, and advancing quantum computing applications.
  • Goal: Position Karnataka as a hub for next-gen computing and AI research.
• Defence Technology & Industry 5.0 CoE:
  • Stakeholders: DhaRti Foundation and IIT Dharwad.
  • Expected outcomes: Incubation of 100+ start-ups and commercialisation of 40+ innovations.
  • Focus areas: Robotics, UAVs, secure communication, and sustainable Industry 5.0 solutions.
• Strategic vision:
  • Strengthen deeptech research and innovation in North Karnataka.
  • Support India’s broader push into quantum technology and defence innovation.
  • Costs include travel, manpower, and outreach to develop the ecosystem.

Broader context

• State positioning: Karnataka is building a quantum and defence innovation hub, complementing national efforts like the National Quantum Mission.
• Quantum City plan: Announced near Bengaluru, aiming for a $20 billion quantum economy by 2035.
• Strategy: Multi-pronged approach—talent, start-up support, and infrastructure for cutting-edge technologies.

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Why it matters

• For start-ups: Access to incubation, funding, and research partnerships.
• For academia: Faculty development and advanced research opportunities.
• For industry: Commercialisation pathways for defence and quantum innovations.
• For Karnataka: Reinforces leadership in India’s deeptech ecosystem.