From tech to innovation hub, we’re on track: BS Yediyurappa

Bengaluru: The 22nd edition of Bengaluru Tech Summit, the flagship event of the state department of information technology, biotechnology and science and technology, was inaugurated by Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa with Deputy Chief Minister and IT-BT Minister Dr C.N. Ashwathnarayana and foreign delegates at Bangalore Palace on Monday.

Mr Yediyurappa said, “Karnataka is moving towards becoming an innovation hub, a gradual shift from the services sector to product development. Our state has been at the forefront of technology globally and the fact that we have participation from 22 countries at this year's summit substantiates that fact.

The state is recognized as the innovation capital of the region, which again is endorsed by the fact that Bengaluru has produced nine of the 27 unicorns in the country. Recently, the state topped the first-ever innovation ranking of states by Niti Aayog by becoming the most innovative state in the country. I strongly believe that innovation and entrepreneurship will be the driving forces in the years to come.”

Dr Ashwathnarayana said, “Karnataka, and particularly Bengaluru, has been widely referred to as one of the fastest growing technology hubs in the world and supporting and hand-holding start-ups has been a cornerstone of the state’s policy. The government has laid strong emphasis on university engagement through our New Age Innovation Network focusing on Tier 2 and tier 3 cities and 30 engineering institutions. In all, 293 projects and over 100 working prototypes have been realised through this platform.”

‘Unfolding Space and Drone Revolutions – Made in Bengaluru! (2.30-3.25 pm), ‘Intelligent Systems in Agriculture’ (11.30 am- 12:25 pm)’ and ‘Live Biotherapeutics, Microbiomes, Innovation and Impact’ (11 am-11.25 am)’ are among the few sessions scheduled for Tuesday.