In an effort to push Karnataka as the global 'first choice' for Innovation and Technology, the Department of IT, BT and S&T, Government of Karnataka is soon to announce a new IT Policy to drive investments and employment in the state. There would be inclusive digital growth by adopting strategies that will promote emerging technologies such as AI, Machine Learning, Virtual Reality, etc.

Chairing the 15th Vision Group Meeting along with its member, Kris Gopalakrishnan, Chairman Alixor Ventures, Gaurav Gupta, Principal Secretary, Department of IT, BT and S&T said, “We are in the process of formulating a revised IT Policy for the State. Our aim is to strengthen the State’s leadership position in the IT/ITeS industry through increased thrust for emerging technologies and R&D. Our focus would be to enhance necessary support through key incentives and facilitation through the institutional mechanism."

The Vision Group lead by industry captains is also advising the government on organising the upcoming BTS 2019 scheduled on November 18, 19, 2019. The event is a major platform to showcase the technology prowess of Karnataka.

Speaking about the Department’s flagship event, Bengaluru Tech Summit, Shri Gaurav Gupta said that the State was keen to make it even bigger in the coming edition. "We are keen to position Bengaluru as the leader in the IT/ITeS, ST and BT space not only in the country but also globally,” he said.

The State will also collaborate through Global Innovation Alliances (GIAs) for co-innovation. "We have already identified new engagements with countries like Estonia, Canada and Switzerland and are in the process of chalking out soft-landing exchange for startups in countries like Germany and the Netherlands. We are also keen to enhance our focus on Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities," Gupta added.

The event was followed by an interactive session with startups to discuss strategies that would help them address any issues that they may be facing through Government intervention.