Karnataka's KWIN City: MoUs signed with foreign universities, aims to become a global healthcare hub

Roundtable on KWIN City – Health District at Invest Karnataka Global Investors Meet

Setting the ball rolling for the ambitious KWIN City (Knowledge, Wellbeing, and Innovation) project, which is planned over 5,800 acres near Bengaluru, the Karnataka government has begun signing agreements with foreign universities.

So far, the state government has signed MoUs with nine universities including St John's University (New York City) and University of Liverpool that have expressed interest in establishing their facilities in KWIN City in the next few years.  The MoU aims to strengthen research and innovation activities, education cooperation, and establish a joint working group to advance the partnership.

Also, read: Karnataka's KWIN City to host 5 lakh residents, top foreign educational institutions

Professor Tariq Ali, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (global engagement and partnerships) at University of Liverpool, said: “Our visit to Karnataka allowed us to explore the many opportunities for international collaboration with India, especially following the government’s recent regulatory changes that enable joint programmes and student mobility. Our meetings with national and state leaders have paved the way for new and expanded initiatives in Karnataka and across India, which we are excited to take forward.”

KWIN City to emerge as a global healthcare hub

Speaking at a roundtable discussion on ‘KWIN City and the healthcare sector’ on February 12, Karnataka’s Minister for Medical Education, Skill Development, and Livelihood Sharan Prakash Patil said that the upcoming KWIN City is envisioned as a world-class healthcare and medical innovation hub.

Located 50 km from Bengaluru, KWIN City will focus on medical research, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and cutting-edge healthcare services. The project aims to attract investments in R&D, diagnostics, and medical technology, contributing to Karnataka’s healthcare industry.

“With Karnataka’s healthcare market expanding at an annual growth rate of 22%, the demand for high-quality medical services is rising. KWIN City is set to become a gateway for medical tourism, further strengthening Karnataka’s position as a global healthcare destination,” said Patil.

Also, read: Karnataka plans KWIN City as education hub for premium institutions, global universities

He added that Karnataka has already successfully treated international patients, and KWIN City will provide world-class infrastructure to further boost medical tourism and advanced healthcare services. “Major projects like this require strong political will. With our government’s favourable policies and incentives, investment in the healthcare sector can accelerate significantly,” Patil said.

“KWIN City provides an opportunity to establish biotech and pharma industries, leading hospitals, and healthcare enterprises, not only enhancing the state’s economy but also improving healthcare accessibility and innovation for the people of Karnataka” he adds.

Karnataka Minister for Commerce and Industries, Infrastructure MB Patil said: "We aimed to position Karnataka as a global healthcare leader, focusing on AI-driven diagnostics, mRNA vaccines, antimicrobial resistance, and digital health innovations like telehealth, wearables, and robotics. Strengthening research, business, and healthcare collaborations remains key".