In AI push, Karnataka budget proposes Bengaluru robotics, innovation zone at IISc

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah

The Karnataka government has proposed setting up a Bengaluru Robotics and AI Innovation Zone (BRAINz) as part of its push to strengthen the state’s artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics ecosystem.

Announcing the initiative in the Budget for 2026-27, the state government said the proposed campus will be developed by the AI and Robotics Technology Park (ART-PARK) at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in collaboration with Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) and Karnataka Electronics Development Corporation (Keonics).

The project aims to create a dedicated hub for research and collaboration in robotics and AI, sectors, which, the government said, are increasingly shaping global production systems and technology development.

The BRAINz campus is expected to bring together researchers, startups, industry partners and government institutions to work on next generation AI and robotics applications. The initiative is part of Karnataka’s broader effort to consolidate its position as India’s leading technology hub and deepen its capabilities in emerging technologies.

The government also announced a Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence at IIIT Raichur at a cost of Rs 5 crore.

The budget also allocated Rs 4 crore for the development of an advanced surgical assisted robot, or COBOT, in collaboration with IIIT Bengaluru and NIMHANS. The technology is aimed at improving outcomes in neurosurgical procedures.

The announcements come as Karnataka seeks to build stronger research and industrial capabilities in artificial intelligence and robotics, areas that are expected to play a central role in the next phase of digital and industrial transformation.