Karnataka is preparing a comprehensive and sustainable Data Centre Policy to build the digital infrastructure needed for AI-driven innovation and next-generation computing. The upcoming policy is expected to support the State’s broader AI vision while strengthening its position as a leading destination for Global Capability Centres (GCCs).
Speaking at the inaugural GCC Summit 2026, L.K. Ateeq, IAS, Financial Advisor to the Chief Minister, announced that the Government plans to establish India’s 1st public sector-led AI University along with a world-class AI Hub to accelerate AI research, innovation and commercialisation.
He also said that a Vision Group for the AI University will soon be formed with significant participation from the private sector. In addition, the Government will continue expanding GCC growth beyond Bengaluru by developing emerging technology clusters across Karnataka.
“GCCs are no longer back-office operations. They are designing products, leading innovation and increasingly functioning as the 2nd headquarters of global enterprises. Karnataka remains committed to creating the talent, infrastructure and innovation ecosystem that will power the next generation of global enterprises,” said L.K. Ateeq, IAS.
Addressing the summit, Dr. Avinash Menon Rajendran, IAS, said Karnataka’s next phase of GCC growth will be driven by future-ready talent, AI leadership and a supportive policy ecosystem. He highlighted the State’s dedicated GCC Policy, NIPUNA, the Government’s flagship skilling initiative for emerging technologies, and KATALYST, Karnataka’s facilitation platform for GCCs, as key initiatives supporting innovation, talent development and industry growth.
“The next chapter of the GCC story will not be defined by scale alone. It will be defined by innovation, intellectual property, AI leadership and the ability to create global impact from India. We are committed to ensuring Karnataka remains at the forefront of that journey,” said Dr. Avinash Menon Rajendran, IAS.
The summit included keynote sessions, leadership discussions, executive panel discussions and networking opportunities, bringing together policymakers and industry leaders from technology, healthcare, financial services, engineering and manufacturing sectors.
Organised by Maxpo Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd. in partnership with the Department of Electronics, Information Technology and Biotechnology, Government of Karnataka, and the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM), the inaugural GCC Summit 2026 was held in Bengaluru. The event brought together more than 500 delegates, representatives from over 200 GCCs and multinational enterprises, and more than 30 industry leaders and experts to discuss AI, talent, digital infrastructure, innovation, enterprise transformation and Karnataka’s roadmap to strengthen its leadership as India’s premier GCC destination. The inaugural session also featured David Rook, Partner, Weaver & Tidwell, Shri Tapan Sharma, General Manager, State Bank of India, and Shri Sanjeev Kumar Gupta, Chief Executive Officer, KDEM.
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