Karnataka Pioneers Innovation with Bengaluru Tech Summit 2026

Karnataka, known for its dynamic startup ecosystem, is intensifying its focus on deep technology, responsible AI, and sustainable infrastructure as it gears up for the Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 2026. At a Delhi curtain-raiser, Priyank Kharge, Minister of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, emphasized Karnataka's position as India's innovation hub, distancing the state from a 'race to the bottom' for investments.

Slated for November 17-19, this year's summit, themed 'AI and Beyond', aims to foster dialogues with international diplomats to attract more global enterprises to Karnataka. Kharge highlighted that 'over 80 countries' have confirmed participation, and 'over 40 ambassadors, high commissioners, and dignitaries' are expected to attend. In terms of policy, Karnataka is developing frameworks for 'responsible AI' and 'sustainable data centres', while responding to rising requests for regulatory sandboxes to boost innovation.

Addressing competition for significant data centre and AI investments, Kharge asserted Karnataka's mature ecosystem approach, emphasizing the necessity for sustainable practices. Meanwhile, Biocon Limited's Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw remarked that BTS 2026 will highlight the full spectrum of tech innovations, signaling 'huge disruptions' in AI deployment and endorsing Bengaluru's leadership in ethical AI usage.