Karnataka is establishing 50 AI labs in government colleges to enhance emerging tech skills and employability in smaller cities. The initiative, part of the 2026-27 budget and in partnership with the IndiaAI Mission, will provide students with AI, machine learning, and data science expertise.
This initiative aims to bridge the skills gap in emerging technologies, particularly in smaller cities, fostering innovation and preparing a larger workforce for future employment opportunities in AI and related fields.
Karnataka has approved the establishment of 50 artificial intelligence (AI) labs in government colleges across the state as part of its 2026-27 budget. The initiative aims to enhance emerging technology skills and improve employability among students in tier 2 and tier 3 cities.
According to Karnataka IT/BT minister Priyank Kharge, the program seeks to ensure that opportunities to acquire skills in AI, machine learning, and data science are accessible beyond major urban centers. The initiative is being implemented in partnership with the union government's IndiaAI Mission.
Selected colleges will be equipped with AI-enabled laboratory infrastructure to support practical learning and innovation. Each lab will receive financial assistance of approximately Rs 69 lakh over three years, released in three installments. The state government has allocated Rs 10 crore for the initiative, with over Rs 6 crore to be released in the first year. In the first phase, 23 educational institutions have been cleared for the establishment of these AI labs. The government expects this initiative to strengthen Karnataka's innovation ecosystem and create a larger pool of industry-ready talent.