Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has called for stronger cooperation between India and the US in technology, education, innovation and investment. He also positioned Bengaluru as an important link between the two countries. Speaking at an event marking the 250th anniversary of American independence, Shivakumar said Karnataka wants to work more closely with the US in AI, semiconductors, aerospace, advanced manufacturing and scientific research.
“Washington and New Delhi may guide the strategic partnership between our countries. But Bengaluru and Silicon Valley give it a powerful technological dimension,” Shivakumar said.
Karnataka seeks deeper cooperation with the US
Shivakumar said the India-US relationship was expanding beyond government-to-government engagement. Universities, researchers, entrepreneurs, startups and businesses are increasingly becoming part of the partnership, he noted. Karnataka, he said, wants to work more closely with American institutions and companies in emerging technologies and scientific research.
“Karnataka’s ambition is to be among those who shape, build and lead the technologies of tomorrow,” the Chief Minister said. He also stressed that stronger ties should focus not only on trade and investment but also on the exchange of knowledge, ideas and talent. Greater educational and cultural exchanges between India and the US were also highlighted as an important part of the relationship.
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Bengaluru remains a major US corporate hub
Shivakumar highlighted the strong economic links between Karnataka and the US. More than 1,000 American companies currently operate in the state, he said, representing nearly half of the total American corporate presence in India.
Bengaluru is also home to more than 80,000 American citizens, underlining the city’s long-standing links with the US business and technology community. The Chief Minister said Karnataka’s combination of skilled talent, research capabilities and industrial infrastructure gives American companies a strong base for expanding their operations in India.
AI, semiconductors and aerospace among key focus areas
Karnataka is developing several projects aimed at strengthening its position in advanced technology and manufacturing. These include KWIN City, a semiconductor park and plans for an AI technology park and India’s first public-sector AI university. Shivakumar also pointed to Foxconn’s significant presence in Bengaluru as part of the state’s expanding electronics and manufacturing ecosystem.
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The state is seeking greater American participation in these areas as it looks to attract investment and build capabilities in next-generation technologies.
Karnataka invites US firms beyond Bengaluru
Shivakumar also invited American companies to explore opportunities under Karnataka’s Beyond Bengaluru programme. The initiative aims to encourage technology, manufacturing and other business activity beyond the state capital, creating new investment opportunities across Karnataka.
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For the state government, the wider goal is to build a stronger technology and innovation ecosystem while taking advantage of Karnataka’s talent pool and research infrastructure.
What does this mean for India-US technology ties?
The Karnataka government’s push reflects the broader shift in India-US relations towards technology, innovation and investment. Bengaluru, with its technology companies, startups, researchers and skilled professionals, is well placed to play a larger role in that partnership.
For Karnataka, deeper engagement with American companies and institutions could bring fresh investment, research collaborations and opportunities in areas such as AI, semiconductors, aerospace and advanced manufacturing.
Indrani Priyadarshini is a journalist and editorial professional specialising in technology, artificial intelligence, smart cities, green energy, and digital transformation. With over four years of experience in tech journalism and digital media, she is known for turning complex industry developments into clear, engaging, and insightful stories. Her expertise spans reporting, editorial strategy, digital publishing workflows, and in-depth coverage of emerging technologies shaping the future.
