BENGALURU: In a strong pitch to cement the state’s status as a global technology powerhouse, Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced on Tuesday that the state is primed to lead not only in digital software, but also across advanced frontiers including nanotechnology, semiconductors, advanced materials, and deeptech innovation.
Inaugurating the 14th edition of Bengaluru INDIA NANO 2026 at The LaLiT, Bengaluru, the Chief Minister stressed that the government is fully committed to building an ecosystem where research moves seamlessly from academic laboratories into commercial market products.
The Convergence Era of Technology
Addressing an assembly of global delegates, scientists, and industry leaders, IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge highlighted that the upcoming wave of global innovation will be driven by the convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), nanotechnology, biotechnology, and semiconductors.
Mr. Shivakumar further traced Bengaluru’s rich scientific heritage back to the historic 1893 meeting between industrialist Jamsetji Tata and Swami Vivekananda, which catalyzed the founding of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) with support from the erstwhile Kingdom of Mysore.
- Scientific Recognition: Bharat Ratna Prof. C.N.R. Rao was felicitated at the event for his pioneering role in advancing nanoscience. The prestigious Prof. C.N.R. Rao Bengaluru INDIA NANO Science Award was presented to Prof. B.L.V. Prasad, Director of the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS).
- Semiconductor Resilience: Speaking at the summit, Rangesh Raghavan, Corporate Vice President & MD of Lam Research India, emphasized that India’s long-term economic opportunity lies in strengthening the semiconductor supply chain through precision manufacturing and advanced engineering.
The flagship 3-day event—themed ‘Nanotech’s Next Frontier: AI & Beyond – Conceive, Converge, Commercialise’—features international exhibitions and technical tracks spanning nano-electronics, smart healthcare, climate-smart agriculture, and sustainable energy solutions.
