A delegation from the Karnataka government, led by state ministers, held discussions with executives from Applied Materials, Juniper Networks, and Western Digital in the United States.
Karnataka minister for large & medium industries MB Patil and IT-BT minister Priyank Kharge recently held a series of meetings with industry leaders and the Indian diaspora in the United States. It covered topics such as the semiconductor ecosystem, hardware manufacturing, R&D investment and ease of doing business.
In a meeting with Juniper Networks Inc., the delegation discussed several issues, including enhancement of the company's R&D capabilities in the state, exploration of hardware manufacturing, supplier ecosystem development, policies, and incentives in Karnataka, a statement from the industries department.
"Juniper likely to set up hardware manufacturing facility in Karnataka. Both Juniper and Karnataka government explored plans for renewable energy integration into business operations and government partnerships to establish a Center of Excellence for design and wireless products by March 2024" it said.
A statement said, "Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives for skill development in rural areas and collaboration on skilling and training in Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), and cybersecurity were also part of the discussion." Juniper Networks currently operates the largest data center in Karnataka, employing 4,000 people.
Meanwhile, American chip manufacturer Applied Materials will establish a Center of Excellence for innovation and an R&D lab in Whitefield, Bengaluru. "The company's officials sought the government's support in this endeavor and requested expedited pre-construction approvals for their lab setup. The discussions also touched upon the significance of chemicals and gases required for the semiconductor ecosystem and the ease of doing business." said a release.
The release further said, "Recently, Applied Materials announced a $400 million investment plan spread over the next four years to establish an engineering center in Bengaluru." . The delegation also visited the company's Maydan Technology Center, a facility dedicated to advanced chip manufacturing.
Western Digital, which maintains a substantial R&D presence in Bengaluru, discussed customs-related issues with the government, especially concerning its hard disk drive development. The company also explored ways to improve the ease of doing business and expedite the approval process.
Kharge said, "Karnataka, as an IT/BT hub, offers immense growth opportunities for companies. Our government remains committed to providing the best infrastructure and ensuring ease of doing business through conducive policies."
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