Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced plans to establish a next-generation green data centre in a coastal district near Bengaluru and to lay the foundation for the state’s first and largest AI university. The announcements were made during Google’s I/O Connect India 2026 event held in Bengaluru, highlighting the state’s focus on advancing AI infrastructure and talent development.
At the event, Shivakumar emphasized the significance of these initiatives as major steps toward building AI capabilities in Karnataka. The green data centre aims to support sustainable computing needs, while the AI university will focus on nurturing talent to meet growing demands in artificial intelligence. The event also showcased AIIMS Delhi’s use of Google’s MedGemma models for healthcare applications, demonstrating the practical impact of AI in India.
These developments come amid increasing efforts by Indian states to boost AI research and infrastructure. Karnataka’s green data centre aligns with global trends toward sustainable technology, while the AI university addresses the critical need for skilled AI professionals. AIIMS Delhi’s open-sourced MedGemma models for leprosy and reproductive health further illustrate how AI tools are being adapted for local healthcare challenges, enhancing India’s digital public infrastructure.
Google’s I/O Connect India 2026 event in Bengaluru served as the platform for these announcements, with AIIMS Delhi’s MedGemma models expanding to cover new health use cases. The state government’s commitment to AI infrastructure and education marks a significant step in positioning Karnataka as a key player in India’s AI ecosystem.