As we stand here today, amidst the leaders who have shaped the technology sector, I am reminded of the journey we have undertaken. A journey of transformation, of relentless pursuit of excellence and of a collective dream to see India emerge as a global technology leader. Bengaluru has been the epicentre of this dream and you all have been its architects.
The Government of Karnataka recognizes the pivotal role that the technology industry plays in the socio-economic development of our state. We are committed to fostering an environment that nurtures innovation, encourages investment and supports sustainable growth. It is due to the forward looking policies of the government that Karnataka has clocked a GSDP growth rate (nominal) of 14.2% in FY23. Karnataka is also the fourth largest state in the country and contributes around 8.2% to India’s GDP.
Our sector-specific policies are designed to empower startups, SMEs, and large corporations alike, ensuring that Bengaluru remains a haven for entrepreneurs and businesses. Karnataka is the first state to come up with sector specific policies in Startup, IT, AVGC, Biotechnology and ESDM.
The upcoming GCC policy of the Government of Karnataka will focus on easing regulations and incentivising large companies to set up operations in state especially in Beyond Bengaluru areas.
As we look to the future, our focus is on embracing the next wave of technological advancements. Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Internet of Things, Blockchain and Quantum Computing are the building blocks of the next phase of our digital evolution. We are committed to investing in these technologies to ensure that Bengaluru and Karnataka remain at the cutting edge.
To the industry leaders present here, I extend an invitation to collaborate with the Government of Karnataka. Let us work together to create a robust infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and a regulatory framework that promotes growth and innovation. Your expertise, combined with our commitment, can usher in an era of unprecedented development and prosperity.
I would also like to take a moment and thank all the industry bodies that have supported us in this journey – National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM), India Electronics & Semiconductor Association (IESA), Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises (ABLE) and TiE and of course, the Vision Groups who have spearheaded the journey of propelling Karnataka to continue to reach global heights.
I would now like to share a few details on Bengaluru Tech Summit.
Bengaluru Tech Summit, flagship program of Government of Karnataka, is a key initiative of our State Government for the last 26 years. BTS provides an impactful platform to bring together the best minds in technology and innovation. It is Asia’s biggest technology conclave which will be held from November 19 to 21, 2024.
The theme for the 27th edition of Bengaluru Tech Summit is Breaking Boundaries. The theme emphasizes on the importance of collaboration between diverse sectors to drive innovation.
During the summit, we will discuss and delve into the latest technological advancements and trends that are reshaping industries and businesses.
Our flagship summit witnesses participation from industry, academia and policymakers, who come together to inspire, collaborate and fuel the next wave of transformative technologies.
We have had several heads of States and industry stalwarts participate in Bengaluru Tech Summit over the years.
We will see a diverse set of topics addressed in Information Technology, Biotechnology, Startup and Global Innovation Alliance tracks. This year we are introducing a new track - the ESDM track. The importance of the ESDM track cannot be overstated, as it stands at the confluence of technological innovation and manufacturing prowess, two pillars that are driving the new age economy.
The State promotes collaboration with leading innovation hubs of the world through the GoK - Global Innovation Alliance program. We will have various countries speaking about the technologies that these countries are specializing and focusing on.
The Bengaluru Tech Summit is not just a platform for showcasing our capabilities but also a confluence of ideas that can propel us towards a brighter, more technologically advanced future.
I would like to express my gratitude to all of you for your invaluable contributions to the tech industry. Your vision and leadership have not only transformed Bengaluru but have also made a significant impact on the global stage.
Let us continue to dream big, work together, and make Karnataka the undisputed leader in technology and innovation. And as part of this mission, I look forward for your suggestions and opinions to take our State to new heights in technology driven industry and also seek your active participation in BTS 2024 and make it a grand success.