CII-IGBC, University of Mysore Sign Landmark Pact to Advance Green Education

The Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), part of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Mysore to advance green education and accelerate capacity building among students and faculty across Karnataka. The agreement marked a significant step toward institutionalizing sustainability-focused learning within higher education. The signing took place at the University of Mysore campus in Mysuru, reflecting the shared commitment of both institutions to foster an environmentally responsible future built on knowledge, innovation and industry-academia collaboration.

The MoU was signed by Prof. Lokanath N. K., Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, University of Mysore, Mr. Vinod Maroli, Chairman, IGBC Mysuru Chapter, and Mr. Srihari D, Co-Chairman, IGBC Mysuru Chapter. The ceremony was attended by several distinguished dignitaries, including Smt. M. K. Savitha, K.A.S., Registrar, Prof. N. Nagaraja, Director & Registrar (Evaluation), Mr. K. Sriram, IGBC Executive Board Member & Fellow, Mr. Somashekhar, Past Chairman, IGBC, Prof. Shamsundar, Mr. Ramesh Kikkeri, and Mr. Adithya Sajjan from IGBC Secretariat. Their presence underscored the importance of this collaborative initiative in shaping a new generation of green building professionals.

Through this MoU, IGBC and the University of Mysore agreed to jointly introduce specialized courses on Green Built Environment across the University’s affiliated colleges. The collaboration aimed to equip students from civil, mechanical, electrical and architecture streams with contemporary knowledge, practical insights and industry exposure to help them become career-ready in the rapidly growing green building sector. IGBC has committed to developing high-quality course content, providing faculty training and facilitating accreditation, while the University took responsibility for integrating the course as an elective or core subject within its academic programmes. The initiative also included classroom sessions, online training modules, and expert-led engagements to strengthen students' technical understanding of green building concepts.

Mr. Vinod Maroli, Chairman, IGBC Mysuru Chapter while signing the Memorandum of Understanding, said, “The signing of this MoU marks a significant milestone in our collective effort to build a more sustainable future. By collaborating with the University of Mysore, we are integrating green building knowledge at the academic level and empowering students to become future-ready professionals in the green built environment. This partnership will not only strengthen capacity-building in the region but also inspire young minds to lead India’s sustainability movement with innovation, responsibility and purpose."

Prof. Lokanath N. K., Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, University of Mysore, said, "This collaboration with IGBC is a meaningful step toward strengthening our commitment to sustainability-driven education. By introducing specialized learning on the green built environment, we are preparing our students to meet the emerging needs of industry and society. The University of Mysore has always championed knowledge that creates impact, and this partnership will enable our faculty and students to contribute actively to India’s sustainable development journey."

In addition to curriculum development, the MoU laid strong emphasis on experiential learning. Both institutions planned to organize joint programmes on sustainability, encourage participation in IGBC’s flagship events such as the Green Building Congress, Green Education Conclave, World Green Building Week, and various webinars and conferences. Students were also to be supported in pursuing the IGBC Accredited Professional – Associate certification, giving them a competitive edge in India’s expanding green building industry. Furthermore, the partnership sought to invigorate IGBC’s local chapter activities by providing students with meaningful opportunities to volunteer, network with industry leaders and gain first-hand exposure to sustainable design practices through site visits and expert sessions.

This collaboration strengthened IGBC’s ongoing mission to create a nationwide ecosystem of sustainability champions by integrating green concepts into mainstream education. With the University of Mysore being one of India’s oldest and most respected institutions, the partnership represented a major milestone in expanding IGBC’s footprint in academia. Both organizations reaffirmed their commitment to nurturing skilled professionals who will play a critical role in driving India’s transition toward a sustainable built environment. The MoU symbolized a shared vision of enabling youth to lead with knowledge, responsibility and innovation in shaping a greener tomorrow.

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.

Quantum India Bengaluru 2025: Karnataka Launches Visionary Quantum Roadmap in Presence of Top Ministers and Global Experts

• India’s First Global Quantum Event Inaugurated in Bengaluru
• Nobel Laureates honoured at inaugural event
• Pancharatnam Prize Announced for Quantum Breakthroughs
• Karnataka aims for $20B quantum economy by 2035
• Karnataka Launches Strategic Quantum Roadmap
• Quantum Hardware Zone planned near Bengaluru
• Quantum City to unify innovation and industry, Incentives for indigenous quantum tech manufacturing
• State Quantum Mission to steer development with High-level Task Force for sector governance
• Karnataka Launches Strategic Quantum Roadmap

Bengaluru witnessed a historic milestone today with the inauguration of the first edition of Quantum India Bengaluru 2025, India’s first international event dedicated to the fast-evolving world of quantum science and technology. The summit was inaugurated by Shri Siddaramaiah, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka, alongside Shri D.K. Shivakumar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka. The event brought together Nobel Laureates, renowned researchers, industry stakeholders, policymakers, and quantum startups on a shared platform for the first time. Participants from various countries including Denmark, Australia, UK, USA, France, Germany, Netherlands, Israel and Switzerland were part of the event.

The Karnataka Quantum Roadmap unveiled at the Quantum India Bengaluru (QIB) 2025 in the presence of (from L to R) Prof. Arindam Ghosh, Professor, IISc & QIB 2025 Conference Chair; Dr. Ekroop Caur , IAS, Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, Bt, and S&T, Government of Karnataka (GoK); Dr. Shalini Rajneesh , IAS, Chief Secretary, GoK; Dr. M.C. Sudhakar, Hon'ble Minister for Higher Education, GoK; Shri Krishna Byregowda, Hon’ble Minister for Revenue, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Byatarayanapura Assembly Constituency, GoK; Shri N.S. Boseraju , Hon’ble Minister for Minor Irrigation and Science & Technology, GoK; Shri Siddaramaiah, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka; M.B. Patil, Hon'ble Minister for Large and Medium, Industries and Infrastructure Development, GoK; Shri Priyank Kharge , Hon'ble Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj and IT & Bt, GoK; Shri Sadashiva Prabhu B , IAS Director, Department of Science & Technology, Managing Director, Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS), GoK; Ms. Smitha Vishveshwara , Professor, Department of Physics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, US, and Prof. Akshay Naik, Professor, IISc & QIB 2025 Conference Co-Chair, held at Hotel Hilton, Manyata Tech Park, Bengaluru on 31st July 2025.

Organized by the Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS), Department of Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka, in collaboration with IISc Quantum Technology Initiative (IQTI), QIB 2025 aims to position India as a global leader in the Quantum Age.

The distinguished gathering included Shri N.S. Boseraju, Hon’ble Minister for Minor Irrigation and Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka; Shri M.B. Patil, Hon'ble Minister for Large and Medium, Industries and Infrastructure Development,, Government of Karnataka; Shri Krishna Byregowda, Hon’ble Minister for Revenue, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Byatarayanapura Assembly Constituency, Govt. of Karnataka; Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon'ble Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj and IT & Bt, Government of Karnataka; Dr. M.C. Sudhakar, Hon'ble Minister for Higher Education, Government of Karnataka; Prof. Duncan Haldane, Princeton University, USA, (2016 Nobel Laureate); Prof. David Gross, UCSB, USA, (2004 Nobel Laureate); Ms. Smitha Vishveshwara, Professor, Department of Physics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, US; Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, Bt, and S&T, Government of Karnataka; Prof. Arindam Ghosh, Professor, IISc & QIB 2025 Conference Chair; Prof. Akshay Naik, Professor, IISc & QIB 2025 Conference Co-Chair; and Shri Sadashiva Prabhu B, IAS Director, Department of Science & Technology, Managing Director, Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS), Government of Karnataka.

Dr. Rajamani Vijayaraghavan, Associate Professor, Dept. of Condensed Matter Physics & Materials Science, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai, was felicitated in the presence of (from L to R) Prof. Arindam Ghosh, Professor, IISc & QIB 2025 Conference Chair; Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, IAS, Chief Secretary, GoK; Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary, Dept. of Electronics, IT, Bt, and S&T, GoK; Shri N.S. Boseraju, Hon’ble Minister for Minor Irrigation and Science & Technology, GoK; Dr. M.C. Sudhakar, Hon'ble Minister for Higher Education, GoK; Shri Krishna Byregowda, Hon’ble Minister for Revenue, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Byatarayanapura Assembly Constituency, GoK; Siddaramaiah, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka; Sadashiva Prabhu B, IAS Director, Dept. of Science & Technology, Managing Director, Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS), GoK; M.B. Patil, Hon'ble Minister for Large and Medium, Industries and Infrastructure Development, GoK; and Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon'ble Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj and IT & Bt, GoK at Quantum India Bengaluru (QIB) 2025, held at Hotel Hilton, Manyata Tech Park, Bengaluru on 31st July 2025.

A key highlight of the event was the announcement of the ‘Karnataka Quantum Roadmap,’ outlining the State’s strategic vision for quantum leadership. Built on five pillars of Talent, R&D, Infrastructure, Industry Enablement and Global Partnerships, the roadmap adopts a phased, outcome-driven approach and focuses on aligning academia with industry, scaling indigenous hardware capabilities and building a robust startup ecosystem.

The Government of Karnataka announced the prestigious Pancharatnam Prize for Excellence in Quantum Science and Technology, named in honour of the eminent Indian physicist S. Pancharatnam. Renowned for his groundbreaking discovery of the geometric phase, now a cornerstone of modern quantum technologies, Pancharatnam conducted his pioneering research at the University of Mysore and the Raman Research Institute in Bengaluru. This prize has instituted to recognize Indian nationals whose work bridges fundamental quantum science and real-world applications, and the award carries a citation and a cash prize of ₹2 lakhs.

A special moment was the felicitation of the two Nobel Laureates, Prof. Duncan Haldane, Princeton University, USA, (2016 Nobel Laureate); Prof. David Gross, UCSB, USA, (2004 Nobel Laureate).

Shri Siddaramaiah, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka stated in his inaugural address, “Quantum technology represents a strategic frontier with the potential to fundamentally transform how global industries solve their most complex challenges. It is not just the future, it is the force that will redefine Karnataka’s capabilities in healthcare, education, energy, infrastructure, and cybersecurity. The Government of Karnataka is fully committed to positioning the state at the forefront of this quantum revolution. Our focus is on the indigenization of quantum technologies and on establishing Karnataka as a global exporter of quantum solutions, unlocking innovations that were once thought to be out of reach.”

Adding to this, Shri D.K. Shivakumar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister, expressed, “Quantum India Bengaluru reflects our deep commitment to shaping the future of science and technology. Karnataka is proud to be at the forefront of India’s quantum journey—bringing together global researchers, startups, investors, and institutions. We envision Bengaluru evolving into the world’s first ‘Quantum City,’ where research, talent, and industry converge. Our efforts begin in the classroom, with quantum education entering schools and universities to prepare the next generation. This revolution must be inclusive, and Karnataka is committed to building a robust ecosystem through research parks, startup hubs, and strong policy support.”

The Government of Karnataka announced the ambitious vision for 2035 to create a $20 billion quantum advantage-driven economy, potentially contributing a major share of India’s quantum tech output. As a part of this vision, the Government has undertaken several pioneering initiatives to lead India’s quantum revolution. Karnataka has established India’s first dedicated Quantum Research Park at IISc Bengaluru, with ₹48 crore sanctioned for its Phase-2 expansion. To bolster indigenous capabilities, the state is developing a Quantum Hardware Manufacturing Zone around Bengaluru—providing plug-and-play infrastructure and incentives for companies building critical components such as cryostats and quantum chips.

Further advancing this vision, the government is planning a first-of-its-kind 'Quantum City' near Bengaluru—a world-class innovation cluster integrating research, advanced manufacturing, education, startups, and government initiatives under one roof. To ensure focused governance, a dedicated State Quantum Mission is being instituted, guided by a high-level Quantum Technology Task Force under the Department of Science & Technology. This task force will bring together leading minds from academia, industry, government, and defense to set strategic goals and drive coordinated action across the sector.

Shri N.S. Boseraju, Hon’ble Minister for Minor Irrigation and Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka said, “It is indeed a privilege for Karnataka to host Quantum India Bengaluru 2025, in the International Year of Quantum, as declared by the United Nations. Under the guidance of our Hon’ble Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, Karnataka is taking focused steps to build a future-ready quantum ecosystem. Our Quantum Roadmap outlines a clear, phased strategy. We are committed to supporting cutting-edge research, attracting world-class quantum companies and nurturing deep-tech startups through dedicated policies and funding. As India steps into the quantum age, Karnataka is proud to lead from the front.”

The two-day Summit is expected to witness participation of 1000+ Delegates, 70+ Speakers across 25+ Sessions, 20+ Exhibitors, 40 Poster Presenters, and 2000+ attendees from 10+ Countries.

The International Conference under the theme, ‘Building a Quantum Ecosystem: Qubits to Society’, will centre around five key focus areas- Quantum Computing; Finance & AI; Quantum Peripherals & Hardware; Quantum in Healthcare, Security; and in Society & Art.  The Summit will feature an exceptional lineup of sessions and engagements. Highlight of the Conference are the keynote lectures to be delivered by the Nobel Laureates- Prof. Duncan Haldane and Prof. David Gross, as well as Prof. Tommaso Calarco, European Union Quantum Flagship, & Director of the Institute of Quantum Control PGI-8, Germany, Prof. Andrea C Ferrari, University of Cambridge, UK, and Prof. Subir Sachdev of the Harvard University, USA. They will be joined by a host of quantum pioneers as speakers and panelists.

In addition to the insightful sessions, the event will also host Closed-door Roundtable Meetings with Ministers, Policy makers, renowned Researchers & Scientists, Academicians, Students and special invitees. There is a dedicated Exhibition showcasing cutting-edge technologies and solutions from startups, research institution, and quantum hardware companies.

A special highlight of the summit is the Quantum Poster Showcase, where students, PhD scholars and researchers will present their work to a global audience and the best posters will be awarded at the valedictory.

QIB 2025 will also host Startup Pitch Fest powered by TiE Bangalore, a platform for deeptech and quantum startups to connect with VCs and Investors and Compete for exciting prize money and possibly funding opportunities, as well as network with global experts, research institutions. 

About Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS):

Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS) is an initiative of the Government of Karnataka to promote and support science, technology, and innovation in the state. It works closely with academic institutions, industries, and government bodies to drive research, policy formulation, and technology adoption. KSTePS plays a key role in implementing Karnataka’s science and technology policies and fostering collaborations in emerging fields like quantum technologies, AI, and nanotechnology. It also organizes conferences, innovation programs, and funding initiatives to boost the state's R&D ecosystem. As a strategic enabler, KSTePS is instrumental in positioning Karnataka as a global leader in cutting-edge scientific advancements.

The IISc Quantum Technology Initiative (IQTI):

The IISc Quantum Technology Initiative (IQTI) is a dedicated research program at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, focused on advancing quantum science and engineering. It brings together experts in physics, computer science, and electrical engineering to drive innovation in quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing. IQTI aims to develop indigenous quantum technologies, support startups, and collaborate with industry to accelerate commercialization. The initiative plays a crucial role in India's National Quantum Mission, positioning IISc as a leading hub for quantum research. Through interdisciplinary projects and global partnerships, IQTI is shaping the future of quantum technology in India.

Kannada Filmmaker Narasimha Murthy Crafts India’s 1st AI-Made Movie

Kannada director Narasimha Murthy has made waves by creating Love You, which is claimed to be the world's first Al-generated feature film. This marks a fascinating shift in filmmaking—AI is now stepping into creative storytelling in ways we’ve never seen before.

The film was crafted using 30 Al tools, with a budget of ₹10 lakh, and took six months to complete. It features Al-generated characters and 12 songs, with Murthy himself writing the dialogues and lyrics.

While the film is a groundbreaking experiment, Murthy acknowledged some challenges, such as inconsistencies in character features and difficulties in lip-syncing. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has granted it a U/A certificate, making it the first Al-generated film approved for theatrical release in India.

A priest named Narasimha Murthy from Siddehalli village near Bengaluru created the first AI generated Kannada film titled Love You.

The 95 minute film was made with a budget of 10 lakh rupees and took six months to complete.

Murthy worked with Nuthan, a graphic designer turned… pic.twitter.com/UeCYYhAQCH

— Daily Updates (@dailyupdates04) April 23, 2025

Narasimha Murthy faced several challenges while creating Love You, the world's first Al-generated feature film. One of the key hurdles is Character Consistency Issues where in maintaining uniform facial features for Al-generated characters throughout the film proved difficult. At times, characters appeared slightly different in different frames.

Lip-Syncing Difficulties is also one of the challenges. Matching Al-generated animations to dialogue was a tough challenge, as the lip movements didn't always align perfectly with spoken words.

Rendering Time & Computational Power was another challenge. Processing Al-generated visuals required substantial computational resources, making the production time-consuming despite its relatively low budget.

Creative Control vs Al Limitations also existed in the film made. While Al provided innovative outputs, Murthy had to manually adjust dialogues, lyrics, and character interactions to ensure coherence and emotional depth.

Despite these challenges, he successfully completed the film within six months using around 30 AI tools. It’s fascinating to see AI pushing the boundaries of storytelling.

Tata Advanced Systems Buys 7.4 Lakh Sq Ft Land in Karnataka for Aircraft Manufacturing

Tata Advanced Systems has acquired 7.4 lakh square feet of land in Karnataka’s Vemgal Industrial Area for ₹29.34 crore. The land will be used for aircraft manufacturing, including final assembly, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO).

The Tata Group company purchased the land from the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB) under a lease-cum-sale agreement registered on February 24, 2025.

This move aligns with India's Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, strengthening domestic aerospace capabilities and boosting employment. Karnataka has been a preferred destination for aerospace investments, with Bengaluru already serving as a major hub for aviation and defense technology.

Key Details:

• Location: Vemgal Industrial Area, Karnataka, near Kolar-Chikkaballapur Road (SH-96).
• Transaction Type: Lease-cum-sale agreement registered on February 24, 2025.
• Stamp Duty Paid: ₹1.5 crores
• Cost per Acre: ₹1.7 crore.
• Lease Term: 10 years, with an annual rent of ₹17,011 and maintenance charges of ₹2.55 lakh.
• Industrial Area Size: 666 acres.
• Strategic Importance: Supports India’s defense aviation sector, strengthens self-reliance, and enhances global aerospace collaborations.

Why Karnataka?

Karnataka has been a preferred destination for aerospace investments, with Bengaluru already serving as a major hub for aviation and defense technology. The state’s progressive policies, skilled workforce, and strong infrastructure make it attractive for high-value manufacturing.

According to Government reports, the Aerospace industry has the potential to reach $70 billion by 2030.

The government's push for self-reliance and initiatives like Make in India are attracting foreign investments, leading to international partnerships with countries like France, Russia, and the U.S.

US Chip Toolmaker Lam Research to Invest $1.2 Billion in Karnataka

Lam Research, a US-based manufacturer of tools for making semiconductor chips, has announced an investment of $1.2 billion in Karnataka. This investment will be made over the next few years and aims to boost India's semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. The company signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB) during the 'Invest Karnataka'.

The facility will be located in Whitefield, Bengaluru, and is expected to create a sustainable semiconductor ecosystem in the country.

This move is part of India's broader plan to grow its nascent chipmaking industry, supported by a $10 billion incentive package from the government. The goal is to position India as a leader in electronics manufacturing and design.

Lam Research is a leading American company that specializes in developing tools essential for semiconductor manufacturing. The tools manufactured by Lam Research are used in wafer processing and wiring of semiconductor devices.

Lam Research is one of the largest semiconductor wafer fabrication equipment manufacturers in the world. The company specializes in the deposition and etch segments of the semiconductor manufacturing process. It holds the top market share in etch and the second-largest share in deposition. Some of its top customers include major chipmakers like TSMC, Samsung, Intel, and Micron.

Lam Research has been associated with India for over 25 years. The company's India Center for Engineering (ICE) in Bengaluru is a critical part of its global R&D and operations footprint.

Lam Research's $1.2 billion investment is part of a larger trend of substantial investments in India's semiconductor industry.

Tata Electronics has partnered Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (PSMC) to set up a $91 billion facility in Dholera, Gujarat. Micron Technology's Sadanand Facility is another major project approved by the Indian government.

The investment is supported by both central and state government incentives under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM). The ISM has approved five semiconductor units, including Lam Research's, with a total outlay of ₹76,000 crore.

Overall, the Indian government has approved several large-scale projects, with a combined outlay of $76 billion under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM). The goal is to grow the semiconductor market from $38 billion in 2023 to $109 billion by 2030.

Shree Cement Inks Rs. 8,350 Cr MoU with Govt. of Karnataka

MoU aimed to boost industrial growth and create employment in the state

Shree Cement Limited today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) worth ₹8,350 crore with the Government of Karnataka, committing to invest in the state over the next five years. As part of the MoU, Shree Cement plans to establish state-of-the-art cement manufacturing facilities, generating significant employment opportunities and contributing to Karnataka’s industrial growth and development.

On the occasion of the Global Investors Meet 2025 in Bengaluru, the MoU was signed between Shri Siddaramaia, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka and Shri Neeraj Akhoury, Managing Director Shree Cement, marking a major milestone in the state’s industrial growth journey. The investment will be directed towards three key projects, enhancing Karnataka’s cement manufacturing capacity.

The MoU between Shree Cement and the Government of Karnataka includes the establishment of an Integrated Cement Plant in Kalaburagi, featuring a clinker capacity of 3.5 MTPA and a cement capacity of 3 MTPA. With an investment of ₹2,500 crore, the plant is expected to create approximately 300 direct jobs and commence operations by 2025. Additionally, a Clinker Grinding Unit with capacity of 3 MTPA will be developed in Bengaluru Rural district with an estimated investment of ₹850 crores. The second proposed unit is expected to create 250 direct job opportunities, with operations scheduled to begin in 2028.

Further, as part of this MoU, Shree Cement also proposes to establish an Integrated Cement Plant with a clinker capacity of 3.5 MTPA and cement capacity of 6 MTPA (in two phases) at Kalaburagi district. This project entails a proposed investment of ₹5,000 crore and is expected to create 750 direct employment opportunities. The plant is slated for completion by 2030 and aligns with Shree Cement’s vision of sustainable growth and operational excellence.

Commenting on the partnership, Shri Neeraj Akhoury, Managing Director, Shree Cement Limited, said, “Karnataka is a key state for us, and the investment of Rs. 8350 crore reflects our commitment to contributing to its economic growth. We are grateful to the Government of Karnataka for their support and look forward to building a sustainable and impactful presence in the region.”

The projects will not only strengthen Shree Cement’s presence in South India but also support Karnataka’s vision of becoming a hub for industrial and infrastructural growth. The Government of Karnataka has assured its full support in facilitating necessary permissions, registrations, approvals and clearances for the timely execution of these projects.

Shree Cement Limited remains committed to sustainable development and will incorporate advanced technologies to ensure environmentally friendly operations.

About Shree Cement Limited

One of the leading cement groups in India, Shree Cement Limited (‘SCL’) (BSE: 500387/ NSE: SHREECEM) is known for its industry leading green credentials, cutting edge innovative practices and cost leadership. It follows ‘highest standards of Corporate Governance and has a long history of enjoying stakeholders’ trust. Shree Cement is known for its high-quality products which are manufactured at advance manufacturing facilities across India and UAE. It is determined to deliver the most sustainable building material solutions to its consumers. The company is relentlessly pursuing its goal of having more than 80 million tonnes of production capacity in the coming years.

Karnataka to Set Up ₹2,500 Cr CoE Focused on Skill Development Spurring Innovation

The Karnataka government has announced plans to set up a Centre of Excellence at a cost of ₹2,500 crore (approximately $296 million USD. This initiative aims to enhance higher education in line with new innovations and emerging technologies.

The project will be funded with a World Bank loan of ₹1,750 crore, while the state government will contribute ₹750 crore.

The Centre of Excellence will focus on skill development in higher education, updating curricula to meet industry needs, and fostering entrepreneurship. It will benefit polytechnic, engineering, and humanities students, with a portion of the curriculum dedicated to emerging technology innovation and start-ups.

M.C. Sudhakar, Minister for Higher Education, said:

The Center of Excellence is mainly related to higher education, and skill development will be given high priority. In addition, the curriculum will be implemented on the basis of skill development and a credit system will be adopted to provide space for serious study by students. Instead of implementing skill development in the internship model, it will be implemented as part of the curriculum from the first semester itself, as per the needs of the industries. 

The project is expected to be implemented within four years. The center will provide a platform for students to engage in serious study and practical application of skills from the first semester itself.

The curriculum will be designed to incorporate emerging technology innovations and start-ups. About 60% of the standard templates will be used for all departments, with the remaining 40% dedicated to emerging technology innovation and start-ups.

The center aims to make engineering and other courses more relevant and attractive to students by adapting new skills according to industry development and new innovations.

Vodafone Idea (Vi) Ramps up Network Infrastructure to Enhance Data Speed and Coverage for Users in Karnataka

• Upgraded the spectrum in the 2100 MHz band to double the network capacity in this layer
• Acquired additional spectrum in the 900 MHz band through the recent auction in June 2024

Leading telecom operator Vi, today announced advancements in its network infrastructure across Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Tumakuru, to provide faster data speeds for users in these cities. In a press event in the city today, the company shared that it has doubled the capacity of its LTE 2100 MHz band by expanding from 5 MHz to 10 MHz to enable customers with faster network speed and improved internet browsing experiences.

Vi plans to further enhance its network by deploying recently acquired spectrum in the 900 MHz band across the state. This will be used to strengthen indoor coverage, especially in densely populated suburban and rural areas, ensuring improved connectivity and a better user experience.

Reinforcing its commitment to Karnataka, Vi also announced a new service zone in Davanagere to broaden its distribution & service reach within the state. These efforts are part of Vi's commitment to provide superior connectivity and better customer experience across Karnataka, thus ensuring its users benefit from enhanced voice quality and faster data speeds on its best-ever network, Vi GIGAnet.

Vi’s network currently covers close to 85% of the population in Karnataka. Over the past two years, Vi has made upgrades to its core network in Karnataka, ensuring 5G readiness, enabling customers to utilize the benefits of e-SIM, enhancing VoLTE architecture, and rolling out VoWIFI to improve indoor voice services. The company has also expanded its retail presence in the state, with over 140 stores including Vi Stores, Vi Shops, and Vi Mini Stores and has an extensive distribution network in the state with approximately 360 distributors and close to 19,000 recharge outlets to ensure greater service and support for its customers.

Speaking on these developments at the event, Abhijit Kishore, Chief Operating Officer, Vi said: “Our objective is o deliver the best network experience to our customers by expanding 4G coverage and enhancing data speed. As customers demand better choices, we have built a digital ecosystem with our partners to offer a differentiated experience. The Vi App serves as a multi-utility platform by offering games, entertainment, cloud gaming, utility bill payments and more.”

The Vi App, a cornerstone of Vi’s digital offerings, provides users with access to over 400 live TV channels, Video on Demand (VoD) content, popular games like Free Fire and Call of Duty, and utility services such as bill payments for electricity, water, LPG, FASTAG recharges, and more.

Vi continues to innovate in meeting customer demands with offerings such as the Vi Hero Unlimited Plan, which provides unlimited night-time (12 am to 6 am) data, unlimited calling, data rollover, and streaming benefits with free OTT subscriptions. The company has also introduced the ‘Choose Your Benefits’ feature for postpaid customers, allowing them to tailor their plans according to their needs.

Some of its most recent offers include:

• Vi Guarantee Program: Vi customers will get 130 GB of guaranteed extra data over one year, with 10 GB data credited automatically every 28 days for 13 consecutive recharge cycles after they opt in through Vi App. This offer is valid for Vi customers with 5G smartphones and who have recently upgraded to a new 4G smartphone on daily data unlimited pack of Rs. 299 or above.
• The renewed RED X Plan in postpaid at a monthly rental of Rs. 1201 provides unlimited data for non-stop surfing, streaming, and connectivity. It gives consumers the choice to subscribe to complimentary offers like Netflix basic plan, 6-month Swiggy One membership, 7-day International Roaming pack, along with Priority customer service across all Vi touchpoints.
• Vi now offers access to Netflix with its two subscription plans priced at Rs. 1198 for 70 days and Rs 1599 for 84 days. These packs offer the special benefits of Hero Unlimited to consumers with the features of 12 am-6 am unlimited data, weekend data rollover and data delight.
• With the growing consumer demands of bringing more entertainment at an affordable price for its users, Vi Movies & TV App now offers access up to 17 OTT platforms and 350 Live TV Channels in one single subscription. It has newly launched two new subscription plans - Vi Movies & TV Plus priced at Rs. 248 per month and Vi Movies & TV Lite priced at Rs. 154 per month.
• Given the popularity of OTT platforms, Vi is expanding its bundling plans. Currently, it offers OTT bundles with Amazon Prime, Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, SonyLiv, and SunNxt and more partnerships are in the pipeline.

Vodafone Idea Limited is an Aditya Birla Group and Vodafone Group partnership. It is amongst India’s leading telecom service provider. The company provides pan India Voice and Data services across 2G, 3G and 4G platforms. Company holds large spectrum portfolio including mid band 5G spectrum in 17 circles and mm Wave 5G spectrum in 16 circles. To support the growing demand for data and voice, the company is committed to deliver delightful customer experiences and contribute towards creating a truly ‘Digital India’ by enabling millions of citizens to connect and build a better tomorrow. The company is developing infrastructure to introduce newer and smarter technologies, making both retail and enterprise customers future ready with innovative offerings, conveniently accessible through an ecosystem of digital channels as well as extensive on-ground presence. The company’s equity shares are listed on National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the BSE in India. The company offers products and services to its customers in India under the TM Brand name “Vi”. For more information, please visit: www.MyVi.in

Karnataka Approves Bill to Reserve 50% to 70% Jobs for Locals a.k.a 'Kannadigas'

The Karnataka government has approved a legislation that mandates private industries to hire only locals, or people known as "Kannadigas", in certain job categories.

The state government has approved a bill mandating 50%-70% jobs for Kannadigas in companies.

Notably, Karnataka's capital, Bengaluru, houses thousands of startups and global firms ranging from Amazon, Facebook, Microsoft, Walmart, and Google. Infosys and Wipro - two Indian tech giants, also operate from the city.

This bill could have several implications for both Indian and global firms, operating in Karnataka. Global companies with operations in Karnataka may need to adjust their workforce composition to meet the local hiring requirements. They'll have to prioritize hiring Kannadiga candidates for management and non-management roles as per the specified percentages.

The key provisions of the Karnataka State Employment of Local Candidates in the Industries, Factories and Other Establishments Bill, 2024 are as below –

Local Candidates: The bill defines a 'local candidate' as an individual born in Karnataka, residing in the state for at least 15 years, fluent in Kannada, and passing a test administered by the nodal agency.

Reservation Percentages

1. Management Categories: Industries, factories, and other establishments must appoint 50% local candidates in management roles.
2. Non-Management Categories: 75% reservation for local candidates in non-management positions.

Qualification Criteria

Candidates must have a secondary school certificate with Kannada as a language or pass a Kannada proficiency test set by a designated nodal agency.

If qualified local candidates are not available, establishments should train and engage local candidates within three years.

Relaxation Clause

If sufficient local candidates are not available, establishments can apply for relaxation from the provisions, subject to government approval.

Penalties

Violation of the provisions can attract a penalty of up to Rs 25,000.

A nodal agency will verify employment reports, and companies failing to comply will face penalties.

As per state government officials, this bill aims to promote local employment, however it has also faced criticism for potential discrimination.

Implications

The Karnataka State Employment of Local Candidates in the Industries, Factories and Other Establishments Bill, 2024 could have several implications for global firms operating in Karnataka such as finding qualified local candidates for specialized roles might be challenging, especially in technology, AI, and semiconductor industries.Companies may need to invest in skill development and training programs to bridge any gaps.

Establishments will need to allocate resources for compliance monitoring, documentation, and reporting. Non-compliance could result in penalties, impacting a company's financials.

Companies may evaluate their long-term viability in Karnataka based on the feasibility of meeting local hiring quotas. Some firms might consider diversifying their operations across states with different regulations.

Technology firms, including those in the semiconductor industry, may face unique challenges due to the specialized nature of their workforce. Renewable energy and waste management companies may need to adapt their hiring strategies.

Remember, the bill aims to boost local employment, but its implementation and impact will be closely watched by businesses and policymakers alike.

Tata Power Installed Over 220 RFID-equipped EV Charging Stations Across Karnataka

Tata Power is evidently spearheading the growth of sustainable mobility in Karnataka with its electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in the state. The company has so far installed over 220 RFID-enabled EV charging stations across Karnataka, which are part of their EZ Charge network. These charging points are equipped with RFID card transactions for a seamless 'tap, charge, and go' system, making the charging process convenient for EV users.

The chargers are strategically placed along major highways connecting key cities like Bengaluru, Mangaluru, Davangere, and Mysuru, and also at popular tourist destinations such as Chikmagalur and Coorg. In Bengaluru alone, there are over 150+ charging points across various suburbs, ensuring that the capital city is well-covered.

This expansion by Tata Power is in line with Karnataka's vision to adopt clean and efficient transportation and positions the state as a leader in EV adoption in India. The initiative also includes collaborations with well-known public locations and commercial complexes to form a comprehensive charging network.

Other important cities with a notable EZ Charge presence include Mangaluru, Mysuru, Hubli, Belgaum, Gulbarga, and Davangere. EV Chargers have also been deployed at prominent public locations like Taj, Park, Oberoi, Gokulam Hotels, Tata Croma, and Tanishq, ensuring seamless accessibility for electric vehicle users.

With an extensive network of over 150+ charging points strategically positioned in Bengaluru across key suburbs like Devanahalli and Electronic City, Tata Power is committed to minimizing charging distances across the capital city also.

Tata Power has also collaborated with renowned builders and societies like Brigade Gardenia and Divyashree Elan Homes (RWA). This strategic approach extends to key commercial complexes, forming a comprehensive charging network in the state. Moreover, the company’s strategic collaborations with entities like Decathlon and Titan further strengthen its position in Karnataka's EV charging landscape.

Tata Power's EV charging stations, including those in Karnataka, are designed to be compatible with a variety of electric vehicle models. They have deployed a pan-India charging infrastructural solution with over 4000+ public and semi-public EZ CHARGE points that cater to diverse charging standards and specifications. This includes different EV vehicle categories and manufacturers, ensuring that a wide range of EVs can be accommodated.

Tata Power is actively advancing to fulfill the state government's visionary objectives. By strategically placing charging points in key locations, Tata Power not only facilitates the growing EV adoption but also contributes significantly to Karnataka's position as one of the leaders in EV adoption in the country.

Tata Power stands at the forefront of the electric vehicle charging domain, having forged impactful collaborations with state governments and municipal corporations nationwide. With a large market share, its commitment to sustainable mobility is exemplified through the extensive EZ Charge network spanning 530 cities and towns, 86,000 home chargers, 5300 public charging points, and 850 strategically positioned bus-charging stations. Present across prominent highways and diverse locations such as hotels, malls, offices, hospitals,residential complexes, etc., Tata Power is playing a pivotal role in accelerating e-mobility adoption across the country.

Infosys' CSR Arm Commits ₹33 Cr to Strengthen Cybercrime Investigation Capabilities of the Karnataka Police

Renewal of 2018 grant for the setting up of the Centre for Cyber Crime Investigation Training & Research (CCITR)

Infosys Foundation, the philanthropic and CSR arm of Infosys, has announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Criminal Investigation Department (C.I.D) of Karnataka and Data Security Council of India (DSCI), to renew the collaboration for the Centre for Cyber Crime Investigation Training & Research (CCITR) at C.I.D Headquarters, Bengaluru.

Infosys Foundation has committed a grant of over INR 33 crore to strengthen the cybercrime investigation capabilities of the Karnataka police, by extending its association with CCITR for four more years. Building on the collaboration established in 2018, the new MoU will bolster the state police force’s cybercrime prosecution capabilities through training and research in digital forensics and cybercrime investigation.

In addition, the joint initiative will bring together innovators, large enterprises, user enterprises, academia, and the government to fulfil the following objectives:

• Capacity building of the police, prosecution, and judiciary in handling investigations, and development of SOPs in cybercrime investigations.
• Performing research in digital forensics and cybercrime investigation that would improve the prosecution of cybercrime cases investigated by Karnataka Police.
• Fostering entrepreneurship for development of indigenous cyber forensics products and solutions.T
• raining and certification for police staff in their core areas like cybercrimes and digital forensics.
• Collaboration with national and international organizations working in digital forensics domains.

Dr. M A Saleem IPS, Director General of Police, CID, Economic Offences & Special Units, Karnataka, said, “The strategic initiatives for capacity enhancement undertaken by the Criminal Investigation Department of Karnataka have been substantially bolstered by the collaborative efforts with the Infosys Foundation and the Data Security Council of India. In addition to training police officers, CCITR has also extended its activities to other stakeholders in the criminal justice delivery system, viz., the prosecution and judiciary. With the renewal of the collaboration, we expect more thought leadership in digital forensics that would improve the investigation and prosecution of cybercrime cases. At this juncture, I take this opportunity to thank the Infosys Foundation and Data Security Council of India for partnering with us in our efforts to combat the growing menace of cybercrimes.”

Mr. Vinayak Godse, Chief Executive Officer, Data Security Council of India, said, “On this special occasion of renewing our commitment, I would like to acknowledge and express our profound gratitude towards the Infosys Foundation and the Criminal Investigation Department of Karnataka for their pivotal partnership through CCITR. This collaboration has set an excellent example of how public-private partnerships can effectively contribute to handling cybercrime threats. Looking ahead, this renewed collaboration will enable us to develop even more advanced training programs, workshops, and knowledge-sharing initiatives.”

Sunil Kumar Dhareshwar, Trustee, Infosys Foundation, said, “We are very happy with the work DSCI and CCITR have collaboratively achieved. With the digital landscape evolving every day, this renewed engagement will bring in newer dimensions to Karnataka Police’s cybercrime handling capabilities through innovative solutions. This initiative signals a pivotal step towards safeguarding our digital future.”

Foxconn Plans To Invest Additional $1.7 Bn in Karnataka

Apple supplier Foxconn plans to invest an additional 139.11 billion rupees ($1.67 billion) in India's Karnataka state, the state government said in a statement on Tuesday.

The State High Level Clearance Committee (SHLCC) headed by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has given the approval to the company.

The additional investment is earmarked for a manufacturing facility within the Information Technology Investment Region (ITIR) industrial area at Doddaballapur in Devanahalli Taluk. In May 2023, Hon Hai Precision Industry (Foxconn) acquired the land for Rs 300 crore ($37 million).

Foxconn is also expected to start manufacturing iPhones in Karnataka by April 2024 - a project expected to create around 50,000 jobs.

The Taiwan-based company, which assembles around 70% of iPhones and is the world's largest contract manufacturer, has been diversifying production away from China following COVID19 disruptions and geopolitical tensions.

Other major projects receiving government approval include JSW Renew Energy Four Limited (Rs 4,960 crore investment), JSW Steel Limited (Rs 3,804 crore), Toyota Kirloskar Motor Private Limited (Rs 3,237.3 crore), TRIL Bengaluru Real Estate Six Limited (Rs 3,273 crore) and Janki Corp Limited (additional investment of Rs 607 crore), said Karnataka's minister for large and medium industries and infrastructure development MB Patil, in media statement.

 

In An India's 1st, Karnataka Govt To Grant Funding To 100 Startups with ₹20 Crores, Without Any Equities

Karnataka state government will be funding around 100 startups with its committed budget of Rs 20 crore this year, under the Elevate Karnataka programme. The interested startups that need funding and mentoring to scale up can apply to this scheme till December, announced Priyank Kharge, Minister for Information Technology and Biotechnology, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, in Bengaluru on November 18.

According to Karnataka's IT&BT minister Priyank Kharge, Karnataka is the first state in the country to provide grant-in-aid to startups without taking equity in return.

According to the Minister, through the Elevate Scheme, Karnataka has created a platform for start-ups even in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. “Interestingly, 24% of fund recipients are from Tier 2 & Tier 3 cities, and 30% are women entrepreneurs.”

"We have also done better than private venture capital firms at a time when the funding industry is still talking about slowdowns due to funding winter," minister Kharge said.

The state government will provide a one-time grant of up to Rs 50 lakh to each startup to encourage innovators who may need early-stage funding.

Minister Kharge said that In the last four years, the State has offered around ₹200 crore to 874 start-ups that operate across various business domains. No State government has done this. In fact, we have done better than private venture capital firms, especially when the funding industry is still talking about a funding winter."

In addition, the state government also initiated special programmes to equip Kalyana Karnataka by enhancing the start-up ecosystem in the region to compete with larger markets.

Around 25 start-ups from Kalaburagi, Bidar, Raichur, Yadgir, Koppal, Ballari, and Vijayanagar districts have benefitted under the Elevate Kalyan Karnataka initiative.

Kinara Capital Commits ₹ 575+ Cr in Business Loans Disbursement for MSMEs in Karnataka by FY24

myKinara App, available in Kannada, simplifies process for MSMEs to avail Business Loan

Kinara Capital, a fast-growing fintech driving MSME financial inclusion, today reiterated its commitment to fostering MSMEs in Karnataka. It aims to disburse over INR 575+ crores in business loans in FY24 and support the growth of MSMEs in the state.

Elaborating about the plan, Thirunavukkarasu R (Thiru R), Chief Operating Officer (COO), Kinara Capital, said, “Karnataka is a vibrant, growing region with a diverse MSME sector. Kinara Capital is proud to be headquartered in Karnataka and for over a decade, we have supported thousands of small business entrepreneurs in this state. Our commitment to disburse over INR 575+ crores in FY24 to MSMEs in Karnataka will boost business growth and lead to the creation of 6000+ new jobs in local economies.”

MSME business owners can start the process at their convenience with our easy to use myKinara App, available in Kannada. In FY23, Kinara Capital had disbursed over INR 341 crores, 141% higher than FY22 in the state.

The ambitious disbursement plan for this fiscal (FY24) will be supported by operational enhancement. Recently, Kinara Capital has opened 3 new branches in Haveri, Humnabad and Ramanagara and expanded its geographical presence to over 28 branches and 658 pincodes. Furthermore, the company plans to increase its employee strength in Karnataka to 930 employees, with over 300 new hires across Kinara Capital’s Offices in this fiscal .

Headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka, Kinara Capital Capital provides MSMEs with collateral-free loans in the range of INR 1 lakh to INR 30 lakhs through its various products such as Long-term Working Capital and Short-term Working Capital, Machinery Purchase, Bill Discounting and HerVikas loans to across 300 sub sectors.

Till date Kinara has disbursed more than INR 1,089 crores across 20,717 business loans in Karnataka. The support from Kinara has led to over INR 79 crores in incremental income generation for the small business entrepreneurs, and created over 21,437 new jobs in the local economies. Food Products , Construction Material, Machine Components, Textiles, Fabrication, Auto Components, Automobiles etc are some of the leading sub-sectors for Kinara Capital in the state.

Kinara Capital has also been working towards empowering MSME women entrepreneurs through its focused program HerVikas. Under the program, women entrepreneurs are supported with an upfront automatic discount on their business loans. Through HerVikas program, Kinara Capital has disbursed more than INR 87 crores across 956+ business loans to women entrepreneurs in Karnataka. The company is looking at scaling up its commitment and extending its support to more women-owned MSMEs in the state.

Kinara Capital is a fast-growing fintech company and is globally recognized for disrupting the small business lending model in India by democratising access to collateral-free business credit in India. Kinara Capital has disbursed over INR 5,000+ crores to date across 90,000+ collateral-free business loans thereby propelling vast financial inclusion of India’s MSME sector. Leading with a women- majority management team, Kinara Capital has raised the bar for gender inclusivity internally as an organisation and externally with its HerVikas program for women entrepreneurs. The company is qualified as a Systemically Important NBFC by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is a debt-listed entity on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). Founded in 2011, and headquartered in Bengaluru, Kinara Capital has 133 branches serving MSMEs across 100+ cities in India with a workforce of 1,600+ employees. Visit kinaracapital.com for more information and follow us on Twitter @KinaraCapital.

Boson Whitewater Partners with SGBS Unnati Foundation to Install Water ATMs Across Villages in Karnataka

The projects have been funded by ExxonMobil Services & Technology Pvt. Ltd and Broadridge under their CSR initiative and it has been executed by social venture (NGO) SGBS Unnati Foundation and water startup Boson Whitewater

With an aim to povide easy access to safe and clean drinking water, Bengaluru-based Boson Whitewater has partnered with NGO SGBS Unnati Foundation to install water ATMs across villages in Karnataka. The projects have been funded by ExxonMobil and Broadridge under their CSR initiative. Till date, 10 water ATMs have been installed in Malur and Doddaballapur villages on the outskirts of Bengaluru and and over 1500+ families now have access to clean drinking water.

Unnati Foundation is a skilling organization for underprivileged youth across various States. Their program equips youth and guarantees them jobs in corporates in 35 days. They have trained over 28000 youth in the last financial year 2022-23. In addition, they assist villages in setting up Water ATMs to provide safe drinking water to rural communities.

Recently, a few village panchayats in Malur and Doddaballapur villages approached Unnati for help in enabling safe drinking water for their communities. Few of the areas were affected by heavy fluoride water contamination causing health issues in many families. In response, Unnati reached out to Boson Whitewater, a company that has experience in similar projects, particularly in school settings. Boson Whitewater decided to join the effort to contribute and work towards achieving the goal of providing safe water to various rural villages. After assessing the location proposed by Unnati Foundation, Boson Whitewater installs the water ATMs and provides Water ATM cards to the Panchayat. Each family is issued a Water Card with Rs.50 preloaded on it, which can be swiped to dispense 20 litres of water. In order to ensure the sustainability of the program, a nominal charge of Rs.5 per 20-litre per can of water is levied. The financial support for the project has been provided by ExxonMobil and Broadridge.

Commenting on the initiative, Ramesh Swamy, Director, Unnati Foundation, said, “We would like to thank ExxonMobil and Broadridge for their financial support for the projects. This collaboration is a great example of how social ventures and private players can collaborate for the greater good of the community. Through our joint efforts, more people in rural communities can now have easy access to safe and clean drinking water, which is essential for health and well-being. We look forward to working closely with Boson Whitewater to reach many more rural communities across India”

Commenting on this, Vikas Brahmavar, CEO and Co-Founder, Boson Whitewater, said, “At Boson Whitewater, our overarching goal is to use our technology to create easy access to clean water. We look for opportunities like this that allows us to make a huge difference to communities that find it difficult to access clean water. We are excited about our partnership with Unnati Foundation and look forward to implementing more projects together in the future."

Over the next few months, more Water ATMs will be installed across various villages in Karnataka.

About Boson Whitewater

Boson Whitewater, a water utility company, was founded with the aim to change the way industries, IT Parks, malls, and apartment communities recycle their wastewater. Founded in 2011 by Vikas Brahmavar and Gowthaman Desingh, Boson Whitewater converts water from sewage treatment plants into potable high quality water that can be used for household purposes, centralized air conditioning in commercial buildings, and even for drinking.

Karnataka Gets Its First IIT at Dharwad

The new campus of IIT in Dharwad will facilitate quality education. It will nurture young minds for a better tomorrow

The Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi dedicated and laid the foundation stone of key development projects in Hubballi-Dharwad, Karnataka on Sunday.

The projects include dedicating to the nation IIT Dharwad whose foundation stone was also laid by the Prime Minister in February 2019 and the longest railway platform in the world at 1507m in length at Shree Siddharoodha Swamiji Hubballi Station which has been recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records recently.

Thread: Campus tour of Indian Institute of Technology, Dharwad (1/6)@iitdhrwd @JoshiPralhad @narendramodi #Dharwad #VidyaKashi #IITDharwad #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/RV3Pr4DmfF

— Hubballi Dharwad Infra (@Hubballi_Infra) March 12, 2023

The new Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) inaugurated is the permanent campus of IIT Dharwad. It is Karnataka's first IIT. Earlier, IIT Dharwad was functioning in a temporary campus, previously of the Water and Land Management Institute (WALMI) in Belur Industrial Area, which is on the outskirts of Dharwad city.

Developed at a cost of over Rs. 850 crores, the institute currently offers a 4-year B.Tech. programs, inter-disciplinary 5-year BS-MS program, M.Tech. and PhD programs.

Touted as Tech Hub and state of Bengaluru city, the Silicon Valley of India, Karnataka has been (arguably) deprived of getting any IIT. Prime Minister Narendra Modi govt sanctioned IIT-Dharwad in Union Budget 2015-16.

Dharwad, which is renowned as Vidhya Kashi or Shikshana Kashi, will host Karnataka's first IIT. The Prime Minister paid tribute to cultural doyens from Dharwad.

 

Dharwad is known as the cultural capital of Karnataka known for its literature and music. The Prime Minister paid tribute to cultural doyens from Dharwad.

“The new campus of IIT in Dharwad will facilitate quality education while nurturing young minds for a better tomorrow”, the Prime Minister said.

PM Modi underlined that the new IIT campus is scripting a new chapter in the history of Karnataka’s development journey. He noted the high tech facilities of the Dharwad IIT campus and stated that it will act as a source of inspiration which will take the institution to the same heights as other leading institutions of the world.

Highlighting that the IIT Dharwad campus is a prime example of the ‘Sankalp se Siddhi’ (i.e achievement by resolutions) spirit of the present government, the Prime Minister recalled laying its foundation stone in February 2019 and expressed happiness on its completion within a span of 4 years, even though many hurdles came along the way owing to the Coronavirus pandemic. “From laying foundation stones to inaugurating projects, the double-engine government works at a constant speed”, the Prime Minister continued, “We believe in the resolve of inaugurating the same projects whose foundations stones are laid by us.”

IIT Dharwad campus as of February 2023

 
It is to be noted that, the late Union Human Resources Development Minister S. R. Bommai had moved the proposal to the Centre seeking an IIT in Dharwad in the 1990s.

Later in 1998, a committee headed by former ISRO chairman and space scientist Udupi Ramachandra Rao submitted its report recommending an IIT in Hubballi-Dharwad.

Union finance Minister Arun Jaitley in the 2015-16 union budget, sanctioned a budget for IIT for Karnataka state. 

To Decongest Bengaluru, Karnataka Govt to Avail 50,000 Acres of Land for Industrial Development Within 6 Mths

CII Karnataka Annual Meeting 2022-23:

Beyond Bengaluru – Karnataka Government is committed to decongesting Bengaluru

New office Bearers for CII Karnataka: Mr Vijaykrishnan Venkatesan elected as the Chairman and Mr Venu Nuguri elected as Vice Chairman

Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Karnataka organised the Annual Meeting 2022-23 in Bengaluru today. The meeting was marked by an engaging discussion on“Karnataka@100: Sustainable Futures - Digital Transformation and Upskilling. Dr. Murugesh Rudrappa Nirani, Hon’ble Minister for Large & Medium Scale Industries, Government of Karnataka delivered the inaugural address.

CII Karnataka released the vision document Towards Karnataka@100 in collaboration with IIM Bangalore at the Inaugural Session. The vision document prepared in consultation with the stakeholders from across the state, capturing their inputs and aspirations for Karnataka@100 brought out a collective vision of an inclusive sustainable future powered by innovation.

CII Karnataka also announced the election of new office bearers for CII Karnataka State Council for the year 2023-24.Mr. Vijaykrishnan Venkatesan Managing Director of Kennametal India Limited (KIL) elected as the new Chairman while Mr. Venu Nuguri, Managing Director & CEO of Hitachi Energy will serve as the Vice Chairman.

Dr. Murugesh Rudrappa Nirani, Hon’ble Minister for Large & Medium Scale Industries, Government of Karnataka stated that Karnataka is number one in ease of doing business and in receiving FDI in the country at 38%. In Aerospace and Defence also, Karnataka is number one in the country with more than 63% share. All major multinational companies in the aerospace sector have set up their R&D centre in Karnataka.

Dr. Nirani shared that Karnataka Government is committed to decongesting Bengaluru and developing infrastructure in Karnataka as a top priority. The Government is looking to build around 17 or 18 airports in Karnataka each within a radius of 100 kilometres from the other. Road connectivity is also being improving with the objective to enhance the industrial connectivity across Karnataka with other states. According to him, Beyond Bengaluru will become a reality soon.

Speaking about the Global Investors Meet 2022, Dr. Nirani stated that Rs. 9.81 lakh crores worth of MOU were signed which would generate 7 to 8 lakh jobs in the State. He said that government is in sync with CII’s Beyond Bangalore concept, and highlighted that only less than 10% of these investments (during GIM) were for Bangalore, with 90% directed outside Bangalore, in Tier 2 and tier 3 cities. He further said that 50% to 60% of the MOUs signed during the Global Investors Meet will be operational within 5 years. Making land available for industrial development is of high priority for the government and the process of availing land parcels of 50000 acres in the State including 20000 acres in Bengaluru and over 30000 acres of land outside the city will be available within 6 months.

Ms. Suchitra Ella, Chairperson, CII Southern Region & Managing Director Bharat Biotech International Ltd said that the industry is currently in the early stages of a sustainability Revolution. To prepare for the sustainability revolution, companies need to rethink their approach on new skills and new jobs and academic institutions to bridge that gaps in R&D.

Mr. Kamal Bali, Deputy Chairman, CII Southern Region & President & Managing Director, Volvo Group India Pvt Ltd emphasised the need for India to focus on its transition to sustainable manufacturing not just by the large players but also within the MSME sector. Promoting sustainable manufacturing as a thrust area will be the need of the hour to be visible as a leader in the Global Value Chain. 

Mr. Arjun Ranga, Chairman, CII Karnataka State Council & Director, NR Group & Managing Director, Cycle Pure Agarbathis said that CII Karnataka has been working towards inclusive and sustainable growth by focusing on the development of Tier-2 cities and will continue to work on enhancing the ease of doing business, especially for MSMEs and strengthen the ecosystem for entrepreneurship and youth engagement.

A CEOs Perspective on Sustainable Future, Globalization to Localization moderated by Mr. Ramesh Ramadurai, Managing Director, 3M India Ltd saw a lively discussion on the key trends and actions that are being taken in India to drive sustainability in different sectors by a panel which included Mr. Sandeep Maini, Chairman, Maini Group; Dr Venkata Ramana Akkaraju, Chairperson, New Mangalore Port Authority; Mr. Venu Nuguri, Managing Director & CEO, India & South Asia, Hitachi Energy India Ltd, Mr. Arvind Mediratta, Managing Director & CEO, Metro Cash & Carry India and Mr. Dilip Jose, Managing Director & CEO, Manipal Hospitals.

The CII Karnataka Annual Meet 2023 brought together thought leaders from industry, government, and academia to facilitate dialogue and learnings for co-creating and working towards a sustainable and inclusive future for Karnataka.

Profile of CII Karnataka new office bearers

Mr. Vijaykrishnan Venkatesan, Chairman of CII Karnataka State Council 2023-24.

Mr. Vijaykrishnan Venkatesan, Chairman, CII Karnataka

Vijaykrishnan Venkatesan is the Managing Director of Kennametal India Limited (KIL) since September 2020. He spearheads the infrastructure business of Kennametal Inc. for the APAC region in addition to his role as the MD of Kennametal India. Prior to joining Kennametal, Vijaykrishnan accumulated over 23 years of work experience with Saint Gobain and 3M. He has held leadership roles in India as well as the APAC region. He served as Vice President - Abrasives systems Division, and as Executive Director – Strategic Planning, 3M India.  In his current role, he is leading efforts to drive growth for Kennametal in India and create value for its stakeholders with focus on enhancing ESG standards for the company, Manufacturing & operational excellence. He champions DEI & ESG initiatives within his frame of work. Vijaykrishnan is a Graduate of Madras University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA with specialization in Marketing.

Mr. Venu Nuguri Vice Chairman of CII Karnataka State Council 2023-24

Mr. Venu Nuguri Vice Chairman of CII Karnataka

Venu Nuguri is Managing Director & CEO of Hitachi Energy in India and South Asia. He has been the Managing Director of India since December 2019 and head of the South Asia region since Jan 2016. Venu has over 25 years of experience across Business Units in the company. He has held several leadership positions in sales, marketing, account management, business development, customer relations, and operations. Venu has a degree in Electrical Engineering from the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Warangal, and he has also attended management courses at the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, Indian School of Business, Hyderabad, and the International Institute of Management Development, Switzerland.

Karnataka's New Startup Policy to Offer Rs 100 Cr Fund for DeepTech Ventures, 25% of This for Women led Startups

The state government of Karnataka has announced a new Karnataka startup policy 2022 which will be launched soon to promote 25,000 startups in the next five years. A number of incentives will be offered, including a venture fund of Rs 100 crore, under this policy approved by the Cabinet on Thursday. The policy was prepared by the IT-BT and the Department of Science and Technology.

The new policy, valid till 2027, aims to make Karnataka “the Champion State for startups”, according to a note by the government.

To recall, recently Devjani Ghosh, president of the National Association of Software and Services Companies ( NASSCOM), had said that DeepTech startups received only 11% of total technology investment in India and the sector needs more financing. 

In the new startup policy of Karnataka, venture capital fund of Rs 100 crore will support emerging innovative and deep-tech startups in AI, machine learning, electric vehicles, robotics and drones. 

Startups will also get a lump sum grant of up to Rs 50 lakh.

The new policy aims for 50 New-Age Innovation Networks (NAIN) in higher education technology institutions outside the Bengaluru urban district. Each NAIN will receive support of Rs 5 lakh per student project for three years and Rs 12 lakh annually for operating expenses.

Apart from direct loan of Rs 10 lakh through Niti Karnataka State Mahila Vikas Nigam, 25% of venture capital of Rs 100 crore will be reserved for startups run by women. A Center of Excellence for Assisted Technology will be set up with the help of Rs 15 crore for innovative solutions for the disabled and senior citizens.

ABC Cleantech Signs MoU With Karnataka Govt for Setting Up Green Hydrogen Facility With an Investment of ₹50,000 Cr

ABC Cleantech today announced that it had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Karnataka as a part of ‘INVEST Karnataka 2022’ for setting up a green hydrogen production unit of 0.2 million tons/annum and 1 million tons/annum of Green Ammonia integrated with 5 GW of Renewable Energy Projects with an investment outlay of Rs. 50,000 crores.

This manufacturing unit is proposed to generate employment for about 5,000 people over 10 years. The Chairman and Managing Director of ABC Cleantech and the Additional Chief Secretary to Government of Karnataka, entered this MoU representing the Company and the State respectively. The ceremony was conducted in the presence of the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Basavaraj Bommai.

ABC cleantech signs MOU with Karnataka Government 

Commenting on the partnership, Dr. E. V. Ramana Reddy, Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka, said, “Karnataka had the pride of getting the largest Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in India last year and it is also the number one state in the country for the ease of doing business.

The purpose of ‘Invest Karnataka 2022’ is to continue attracting the best businesses to invest in our great state and partake of its many beneficial policies. It is clear today that renewable energy is the only way equitable development and environmental balance can be ensured which will help our state to create a safe and healthy world for future generations. By generating jobs and livelihoods, we hope to contribute in a more meaningful manner to the people of Karnataka. I wish this venture all the success.”

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ravi Kumar Reddy, CMD, ABC Cleantech, remarked, “We, along with our partners, are deeply honoured to be a part of the INVEST Karnataka 2022. I am confident that this proposal would help the country to move towards a net-zero carbon economy while at the same time contributing to the local economy. The employment opportunities that this project would generate in the State of Karnataka, particularly where this project is proposed to be set up should be a boost for the state’s well-being as well. I look forward to the opportunity of working with the government of Karnataka and thank the people and the administration for the trust and cooperation that has made this possible.”

ABC Cleantech Private Limited is a part of Axis Energy Group which is one of the leading renewable energy players in the country. Axis Energy, a Hyderabad-based company, in partnership with Brookfield. which is one of the world’s largest asset management companies with over USD 750 billion of assets under their management, have together set up a joint venture platform “ABC Renewables” for developing renewable energy projects. This JV has a pipeline of more than 2 GW of projects under various stages of implementation and it recently commissioned a 445MWp solar power project in the State of Rajasthan in record time. This was a bid bagged by the company from NTPC.