What were the highlights of K’taka’s CII India Innovation Summit?
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Synopsis
The recent CII India Innovation Summit in Bengaluru showcased Karnataka's role in revolutionizing the innovation landscape. With a spotlight on AI-driven R&D and skill development, industry leaders discussed collaborative efforts to foster a robust ecosystem. Discover how public-private partnerships are paving the way for a brighter future in India's innovation journey.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka leads India's innovation journey with over 400 R and D centres.
- Focus on AI-driven solutions is pivotal for future growth.
- Public-private partnerships are key to fostering innovation.
- Skill development initiatives align with emerging industries.
- Collaboration is essential for impactful innovation.
Bengaluru, Oct 11 (NationPress) The 21st edition of the Confederation of Indian Industry’s (CII) flagship India Innovation Summit – CII INNOVERGE 2025 wrapped up on Saturday at The Taj West End, Bengaluru. The summit aimed at enhancing India’s innovation ecosystem through AI-driven R and D, skill development, and advanced manufacturing.
In a special address, Selvakumar S, IAS, Principal Secretary of the Department of Commerce and Industries, underscored the crucial role of research, innovation clusters, and public-private partnerships in bolstering India’s R and D capabilities.
He pointed out that Karnataka continues to lead the nation’s innovation landscape with progressive policies, strategic investments in technology infrastructure, and a strong academic ecosystem.
“Karnataka is leading India’s innovation journey, transforming talent into intellectual property. With over 400 R and D centres, initiatives in AI and Data Science, and Industry 4.0 programs for SMEs, we are promoting homegrown solutions and spreading innovation beyond Bengaluru to Hubballi, Mysuru, Mangaluru, and Belagavi through robust public-private partnerships,” he stated.
Manoj Kumar Meena, IAS, Secretary to Government, Department of Skill Development, Entrepreneurship and Livelihood, Government of Karnataka, explained, "Karnataka is establishing a unified, future-ready skill ecosystem through the Karnataka Skill Policy 2025–2032, effectively linking education, skilling, and employment.
“With initiatives like industry-led ITIs under the PM Setu scheme, an AI-driven Skill Connect Portal connecting talent with industry needs, and programs such as Nanavritti Nanna Ika, Kalika Jotege Kaushalya, and CM Kaushalya Karnataka Yojana, we aim to make skilling aspirational, inclusive, and aligned with emerging sectors such as green, digital, and creative industries."
Kamal Bali, Past Chairman of CII Southern Region; Chairman of CII India INNOVERGE 2025 & President and Managing Director of Volvo Group India, emphasized, "Partnership is the future of leadership — we must shift from a focus on competition to a focus on collaboration. To transform into a product-first nation, India must boost R and D investments, hasten productization and commercialization, and scale AI-driven solutions across supply chains and clean-energy systems. This transition will succeed only when collaboration is built on transparency and trust among industry, academia, and government, enabling ideas to translate into real impact."
Point of View
It is clear that the CII India Innovation Summit has reaffirmed Karnataka's position as a leader in innovation. The discussions surrounding AI, skill development, and public-private partnerships reflect a national vision that prioritizes collaboration over competition. This approach not only enhances India's global standing but also fosters a robust environment for future innovations.
NationPress
11/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of the CII India Innovation Summit?
The summit focuses on enhancing India’s innovation ecosystem through AI-driven R&D, skill development, and advanced manufacturing.
Where was the CII India Innovation Summit held?
The summit took place at The Taj West End in Bengaluru.
Who emphasized the importance of collaboration in innovation?
Kamal Bali, Past Chairman of CII Southern Region, highlighted the need for collaboration over competition.
What initiatives are being taken to develop skills in Karnataka?
Karnataka is implementing the Karnataka Skill Policy 2025–2032 to connect education, skilling, and employment effectively.
How does Karnataka plan to expand its innovation ecosystem?
Karnataka aims to expand its innovation ecosystem through strategic investments, public-private partnerships, and outreach programs to cities beyond Bengaluru.
