• From Bengaluru to the World- A Preview of BTS 2024
• Consul Generals from Australia, Denmark, Israel, Japan, Switzerland, the USA, and the UK confirm their commitment to participation

BENGALURU: The Department of E, IT, Bt Government of Karnataka, under its Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) initiative, hosted the GIA Meet today to promote the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024 (BTS 2024) to its Global Innovation Alliance partner countries & international trade mission representatives. The meeting, held in Bengaluru, was graced by Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for IT, Bt, and Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Government of Karnataka. The Consul Generals of GIA countries along with Heads of International Trade Missions & different provinces of these countries participated in the event including Australia, Denmark, Israel, Japan, Switzerland, the USA, the UK, Poland, Finland, France, Germany, Netherlands, Italy & many more. Shri Darshan H.V, IAS, Director, Dept. of Electronics, IT, Bt, and Managing Director, KITS, Govt. of Karnatakaset the tone for the GIA Meet, detailed presentation on the event was provided by Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary to Government, Department of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology and Science & Technology, Govt. of Karnataka, and Ms. Ruchi Bindal, IAS, Deputy Secretary, Dept. of E, IT, Bt Govt. of Karnataka concluded the event.

The Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) is an initiative of the Department of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology, and the Government of Karnataka. The platform aims to create partnerships with leading countries in the field of technology and innovation. This program was conceptualized in 2017 under the Karnataka Unit for International Co-operation (KUIC), and the GIA partners have grown exponentially, from 10 countries in 2018 to 30+ countries in 2024. The GIA Meet aimed to strengthen international cooperation, foster innovation, and invite global participation in the upcoming BTS 2024 scheduled from November 19-21, 2024, at the iconic Bangalore Palace.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for IT, Bt, and Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Government of Karnataka emphasized the importance of Bengaluru and Karnataka as a global hub for technology collaboration. He stated, “Bengaluru is not just the tech capital of India; it’s a globally recognized hub for innovation, research, and technology-driven growth. The state’s dynamic ecosystem has attracted over $45 billion in foreign direct investment, with global giants establishing significant R&D centers here. With over 15,000 startups and a startup valuation of $180 billion, Karnataka is at the forefront of global innovation. It is also the leading destination for Global Capability Centers (GCCs), with more than 400 centers already established in Bengaluru, making up over 40% of all GCCs in India. The Bengaluru Tech Summit has been instrumental in bringing together the brightest minds from around the world, and I strongly urge our Global Innovation Alliance partners to include BTS 2024 in their event calendars. Active participation will not only contribute to our shared technology future but also help continue creating high-quality jobs, driving economic growth, and building a more connected, sustainable, and inclusive world. Karnataka remains the destination of choice for global technology collaboration, and we look forward to welcoming our GIA partners to explore new opportunities and drive innovation together.”

International partners were invited to bring their country delegations, including both ministerial, academic, R&D, and corporate representatives, to participate in the exhibition by setting up country pavilions to showcase their technological capabilities, hold meetings with representatives from various nations, and conduct focused sessions under the Global Collaboration Track in the conference.

Echoing the message from Shri Kharge, Dr. Ekroop Caur, Secretary to Government, Department of E, IT, Bt, and S&T, Government of Karnataka said, “GIA has been a key pillar in promoting Karnataka’s status as a global innovation hub, fostering partnerships with over 30 countries worldwide. Through these partnerships, Karnataka has successfully established itself as a vibrant center for technology and innovation, creating a conducive environment for startups, entrepreneurs, and global corporations alike. The GIA Meet marks the start of global outreach efforts to ensure robust international participation in this as well as the future editions of Bengaluru Tech Summit.”

Dr. Ekroop Caur presented an overview of the event along with new GIA initiatives which will be tailored to the requirements of the partner countries. She spoke about how the Government of Karnataka is actively enhancing its global engagement through several key initiatives aimed at fostering international collaboration for the state’s vibrant startup ecosystem. The Global Innovation Alliance Market Access Programme (GIA MAP) has successfully facilitated physical exploratory visits for growth-stage Karnataka startups to five countries—UAE, Singapore, Belgium, Australia, and Germany—across various tech segments, supporting 42 startups. Notably, the recent edition in North Rhine Westphalia, Germany, announced a Welcome Package offering €10,000 in financial support to Karnataka-based startups.

In addition, the GIA Mixer, a monthly event launched in August 2024, focuses on promoting collaboration with a new country each month, with the pilot edition featuring DeepTech and Fintech startups pitching to Australian counterparts. Furthering its commitment to nurturing innovation, the Department is in discussions with the UK’s Catapult Network and Paris’s Station F incubator to bolster Karnataka’s Centres of Excellence (CoEs) and support the growth of its startups. The Department has recently launched a newsletter: ‘The Innovation Chronicle’: a monthly guide to key events, initiatives, and industry highlights in ESDM, startups, IT, and biotech through different sections like Breaking news, Department Hub, Industry in Focus, Luminary talks, among many other interesting insights from the Department.

The event under the theme ‘Breaking Boundaries’, will provide unbound opportunities that will feature a range of activities including a 6-track Conference covering IT & Deep Tech, Biotech & Healthtech, Startup Ecosystem, Global Innovation Alliance, India-USA Tech Conclave and newly added Electro-Semicon track. The Conference will host over 85 sessions featuring 460+ speakers. Each of these tracks are curated by a committee of experts from the industry, research, and academia. Special programs like the India-USA Tech Conclave, CEO Conclave, Startup Conclave, and Fireside Chats with renowned personalities will also be featured. The International Exhibition with over 700 Exhibitors including  500+ startups will be a major highlight with focused pavilions on Corporate & Industry, Global Innovation Alliance, Startup Zone, STPI National Showcase, MSME Pavilion, R&D Pavilion (Lab to Market), Leading States of India, Karnataka Showcase and Technology Parks. This year there is a special emphasis on the sectorial pavilions focusing on industry sectors like Biotech & Healthtech, Electro & Semicon, Telecom, Spacetech, Mobility, Greentech, Edutech, BFSI & Fintech, and Animation & Gaming.

A host of networking events like B2B Partnering, Awards, Strategic Roundtables with GCCs, investors, startup ecosystems, satellite events like Beyond Bengaluru; as well as IT & Bio Quizzes, Poster showcase, and Hackathon are some of the other highlights of the event.

The GIA meet also featured addresses from the Consul Generals including Ms. Hilary McGeachy, Consul General, Australia; Mr. Eske Rosenberg, Consul General, Denmark; Ms. Orli Weitzman, Consul General, Israel; Mr. Nakane Tsutomu, Consul General, Japan; Mr. Jonas Brunschwig, Consul General, Switzerland; Mr. Chrisopher Hodges, Consul General, USA; Mr. James Godber, Deputy Head of Mission, UK and Ms. Anne Cremers, Deputy Consul General, Netherlands. They expressed their commitment to fostering deeper engagement with Karnataka’s thriving innovation ecosystem and participating in the Bengaluru Tech Summit.

BTS 2024 is set to bring together global thought leaders, industry executives, technology experts, policymakers, and investors to explore the latest trends and developments in technology and innovation. As the event approaches, it heralds a new era of unbound technological innovation and expansive global collaboration.

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BENGALURU: Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology & Biotechnology and RDPR, Government of Karnataka, announced the 27th edition of Asia’s largest Technology Show, Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 2024, at a Press Conference held in Bengaluru today. Scheduled from November 19-21 2024 at the iconic Bangalore Palace, BTS 2024 will once again position Bengaluru at the forefront of global tech innovation & collaboration.

Ahead of this press conference, a Breakfast meeting was held where Shri Siddaramaiah, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka, engaged in an interactive session with over 200 CEOs from India’s leading IT, Semiconductor & Electronics, AVGC, Biotech and Startup organizations. This 2-hour interactive meeting also saw the presence of Shri D.K. Shivakumar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka; Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology & Biotechnology and RDPR, Government of Karnataka, Shri Prashanth Prakash, Chairman, Vision Group on Startups, Govt. of Karnataka and Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary to Government, Dept. of E, IT, Bt and S&T, Govt. of Karnataka. The goal of this meeting was to foster an open dialogue between government officials and tech leadership, centered on Karnataka’s vibrant tech ecosystem and prospects. The discussions were facilitated by prominent industry associations including NASSCOM, IESA, TiE Bangalore, and ABLE.  The Department of Electronics, Information Technology & Biotechnology Govt. of Karnataka, also presented an ‘Action Taken Report’ addressing the industry representatives’ feedback from the 2023 Breakfast Meeting.

An overview of the upcoming BTS 2024 was presented, with the continued event theme “Breaking Boundaries,” highlighting how technology transcends traditional sector, country, culture, and industry boundaries. Karnataka, with Bengaluru at its heart, is a global technology hub known for its vibrant ecosystem fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. BTS 2024 takes forward this vision, creating unbound opportunities for idea exchange, business growth, and international collaborations. The unique feature of BTS is that all the leading industry associations like NASSCOM, IESA, ABLE, TiE Bangalore, and ABAI as well as USIBC and AMCHAM partner with the event.

The multi-stage Conference at BTS 2024 will serve as a vibrant hub for the exchange of new ideas. Spanning six focused tracks over 3 days, the Conference will cover IT & Deep Tech, Biotech & Health, Startup Ecosystem, Global Innovation Alliance, India-USA Tech Conclave, and the newly added Electro-Semicon track. The Conference will host over 85 sessions featuring 460+ speakers. Each of these tracks is curated by a committee of experts from the industry, research, and academia. Special programs like the CEO Conclave, Startup Conclave, and Fireside Chats with renowned personalities will also be featured.

The newly introduced Electro-Semicon track will spotlight cutting-edge advancements in sectors such as Telecom, Mobility, Manufacturing, Consumer Electronics, and Semiconductors. This track will emphasize breakthroughs in electronic components, semiconductor technologies, and integrated circuits, showcasing innovations that are driving the future of these pivotal industries.

This year, there will be an increased focus on B2B meetings, allowing delegates and companies to engage in more structured and productive sessions. Attendees can schedule meetings with the prospects well in advance and connect with participants seamlessly during the event. The exciting lineup for BTS will be conveniently accessible through a dedicated Event App. The app will also provide real-time updates and personalized recommendations to enhance the overall event experience.

In addition, BTS2024 will also feature a Hackathon where problem statements from various government departments will be presented. Industry partners will provide the necessary infrastructure, support, and mentorship to startups pitching solutions. The selected startups will have the opportunity to present their innovative solutions at BTS2024.

Strategic Roundtables with GCCs, investors, startup ecosystem, Beyond Bengaluru and more will be held to create a roadmap for Karnataka’s continued leadership

The International Exhibition with over 700 Exhibitors at BTS2024 will be a major highlight with focused pavilions on Corporate & Industry, Global Innovation Alliance, Startup Zone, STPI National Showcase, MSME Pavilion, R&D Pavilion (Lab to Market), Leading States of India, Karnataka Showcase and Technology Parks. This year there is a special emphasis on the sectorial pavilions such as Biotech & Healthtech, Electro & Semicon, Telecom, Spacetech, Mobility, Greentech, Edutech, BFSI & Fintech, and Animation & Gaming.

BTS 2024 will honor achievement and excellence at a prestigious Awards Ceremony, featuring accolades such as the STPI IT Export Awards, Smart Bio Awards, Startup & Investor Awards, and more.

This edition marks a milestone for one of its key show elements- the TCS Rural IT Quiz– as it celebrates its silver jubilee. The Finale of the BioQuiz will also be held during the event. These national-level quiz competitions are aimed at creating a talent pool in IT and Biotech Sectors. Another initiative, the Bio Posters- Walkway of Discovery, provides a platform for research students and graduates to showcase their innovative concepts and ideas, fostering recognition of young talent.

Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology & Biotechnology and RDPR, Government of Karnataka said, “Karnataka serves as the headquarters for major tech giants, GCCs, and leading unicorns. This success stems not only from the State’s industry-friendly policies and programs but also from our active engagement and collaboration with the complete tech ecosystem. We also deeply value our close association with Global Innovation Alliance Partners and with them, BTS attracts the world’s foremost leaders, innovators, and disruptors, drawing over 50,000 tech enthusiasts from India and more than 40 nations.”

BTS 2024 anticipates hosting several international delegates from Global Innovation Alliance Partner Nations. The Global Collaborations Track in the Conference will feature sessions curated by these GIA Partner Countries. Tech nations worldwide will showcase their technological prowess in the International pavilion of the Exhibition.

BTS 2024 is expected to have participation from 40+ Countries, with 460+ Speakers in over 85 Sessions, 5000+ Delegates, 500+ start-ups, and 700+ Exhibitors,  with an overall expo footfall of 50,000+.

The Press Conference was also addressed by Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary to Government, Department of E, IT, Bt and S&T, Govt. of Karnataka; Shri B.V. Naidu, Chairman, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission; Shri Shailendra Tyagi, Director, Software Technology Parks of India- Bengaluru, Shri Darshan H.V, IAS, Director, Dept. of E, IT, Bt and Managing Director, KITS, Govt. of Karnataka and Ms. Ruchi Bindal, IAS, Deputy Secretary, Dept. of E, IT, Bt, and S&T, Govt. of Karnataka.

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BENGALURU: Tata Elxsi, the leading global design and technology services company, and global automation company Emerson today announced the inauguration of the Tata Elxsi + NI Mobility Innovation Centre (TENMIC) in Bengaluru. This state-of-the-art center aims to accelerate automotive innovation with cutting-edge systems, software solutions, and global automotive expertise.

The launch event was hosted by Manoj Raghavan, MD & CEO of Tata Elxsi, Ritu Favre, President of the Test and Measurement Business Group at Emerson, and Drita Roggenbuck, VP & GM of the Transportation Business Unit at Emerson.

The event hosted senior technology and R&D leaders of global OEMs, leading automotive suppliers, and semiconductor companies. Their presence highlighted the significance of TENMIC and the collaboration of Tata Elxsi and NI in enhancing automotive development and innovation.

The automotive industry is rapidly evolving with the advent of software-defined vehicles (SDV) and the integration of digital technologies. This transformation demands the speed of innovation to develop, validate, and release new features swiftly, all while ensuring reliability, safety, and performance. TENMIC is strategically aligned with these industry trends, enabling OEMs to ‘shift left’ by validating performance and functionality through a combination of virtual and physical testing well before production. Central to this approach are automation, agility, and the transformative impact of data and AI-led methodologies on the product development lifecycle.

TENMIC brings together advanced technologies and systems from Emerson’s Test & Measurement business (formerly NI), combined with Tata Elxsi’s deep automotive engineering, data analytics, and digitalization expertise and solutions. This collaboration aims to provide comprehensive automated solutions, including advancements in SDVs, autonomous driving technologies, EV systems, and batteries.

“India is emerging as a global hub for next-generation automotive development with the presence of global R&D centers of the entire mobility ecosystem from OEMs to silicon vendors. The shift in vehicle E/E architecture, electrification, and connectivity is driving the need for advanced software development and testing capabilities.

Bengaluru, where both Tata Elxsi and Emerson’s Test & Measurement business are headquartered in India, offers the combined global expertise of the two companies to the entire world while enabling proximity to the thriving R&D ecosystem of global OEMs, suppliers, and technology companies in India. Our partnership with Emerson aims to drive innovation, design, and development, leveraging global expertise to create immense value for our clients,” said Shaju S., Vice President and Head of the Transportation Business Unit at Tata Elxsi.

“Our partnership with Tata Elxsi to establish this mobility innovation center for the automotive sector will enable rapid advancements in automotive technologies and validation, driving the industry forward and redefining the possibilities within the mobility landscape,” said Shitendra Bhattacharya, director of Emerson’s Test and Measurement Business in India & ASEAN.

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The service, which will further strengthen Air India’s presence in the UK, reinforces the strong economic and cultural links between India and the UK.

Air India will operate 5x weekly between Bengaluru and London Gatwick, thus taking the total count of its flights to and from London Gatwick to 17x weekly.

The airline will use its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft on the route, featuring 18 flat beds in Business class and 238 spacious seats in Economy. 

“We are delighted to offer our guests convenient, non-stop flights between Bengaluru and London Gatwick. This new route caters to the growing demand for travel between these two important business and leisure destinations, and strengthens our commitment to expanding our global network,” said Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Air India.

All times are local. (+1) denotes next-day arrival.

Bookings for the flights are progressively open today on all channels, including Air India’s official website (www.airindia.com), mobile app, and authorized travel agents and partners.

Air India currently connects four other Indian cities to London Gatwick, namely Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Goa, and Kochi. The airline additionally operates 31x weekly to London Heathrow, and 6x weekly to and from Birmingham.

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BENGALURU: Schneider Electric, the global leader in energy management and nextGen automation, today inaugurated one of its largest employee campuses globally, at Bagmane Solarium City, Bengaluru, also known as India’s Silicon Valley.

This state-of-the-art campus covers an area of ~ 630,000 sq. ft and features a Global Innovation Hub, Training center, R&D center, Skill center, and Digital Hub with a capacity to accommodate over ~ 8000 professionals.

This new campus reaffirms Schneider Electric’s commitment to be an employer of choice by providing world-class infrastructure for employees to collaborate, develop, and deliver industry-leading solutions for customers. It also reinforces the company’s pledge to “Make in India for India and the world,” showcasing ongoing investments in manufacturing, innovation, people, R&D, and skill building.

Underlining Schneider Electric’s focus on accelerating its investments in India, Peter Herweck, Chief Executive Officer, Schneider Electric, said, “I am delighted to open one of our largest employee campuses worldwide in India. This new investment underscores our dedication to accelerating our contribution to India’s rapid growth. We strongly believe in its potential as a springboard for innovative ideas benefitting local customers, while making a global impact.”

Commenting on the new campus inauguration, Deepak Sharma, Zone President – Greater India, MD & CEO, Schneider Electric India, said, “Our new employee campus goes beyond being just a workplace. It exemplifies the creation of a dynamic ecosystem aimed at fostering collaboration and igniting creativity across the entire energy sector value chain. Through this campus, we aim to provide an immersive, hands-on learning experience, offering comprehensive insights into energy management and industrial automation. Furthermore, it underlines our commitment to expanding our workforce of over 37,000 in India to drive the development of cutting-edge products and solutions not only for India but also for the global markets”

The Innovation Hub at Bagmane offers an immersive experience that integrates all Schneider Electric offerings to showcase a comprehensive journey, transforming sustainability ambitions into tangible actions at the intersection of automation, electrification, and digitization. This innovative approach underscores Schneider Electric’s commitment to providing a holistic view of its solutions and their impact on driving sustainable practices and outcomes.

The Bagmane Campus Training Center will feature interactive demonstrations, workshops, and expert-led sessions, ensuring that our employees, partners, and customers, gain practical knowledge and expertise in the latest technologies and solutions. It will harness internal expertise to foster a learning culture, offering an advanced learning environment equipped with the latest technologies and infrastructure.

Standing by its commitment towards sustainability, the Schneider Electric Bagmane Bengaluru Campus is designed to prioritize sustainability with off-site green power, energy-efficient chiller systems, and 100% greywater reuse via a sewage treatment plant. The campus has already applied for LEED Gold certification, demonstrating Schneider Electric’s commitment to international sustainability standards. Further, the Schneider Electric interior fit-out works are also striving for LEED – Platinum certification, reflecting the company’s ongoing pursuit of excellence in sustainable building practices.

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This open call invites photographers from around the globe to showcase their talent and be part of the Art Programme at T2, a new addition to the existing collection of artworks at the terminal. T2 has 60 commissioned artworks by 43 artists that are inspired by Karnataka’s rich heritage and culture, themed on ‘Naurasa’ or the nine emotions mentioned in Bharata’s natya shastra.

Photographers are encouraged to explore two compelling themes:

1. The Karnataka of today – showcasing hyper-local aspects and the soul of Karnataka
2. The charm and character of South India, where tradition thrives amidst rapid urbanization

Please note that only black and white images are accepted. Submissions can cover a range of subjects from rural and urban life to iconic landmarks, hidden treasures, traditional attire, vibrant festivals, captivating performing arts, and more. However, wildlife, food, selfies, self-portraits, and still-life photography are excluded from this call.

For further details and submission guidelines, please visit https://qr1.be/7JU0

Interested participants can reach out to artprogramme@bialairport.com for inquiries and submissions.

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This pioneering multidisciplinary research initiative brings together top minds to collaborate, innovate, and drive meaningful change. By bringing together researchers from various fields onto a common platform, MURTI aims to harness the collective expertise of researchers from varied backgrounds to tackle challenges that transcend individual disciplines.

The launch event witnessed the presence of distinguished dignitaries, including Dr. Kota Harinarayana, Programme Director, and Chief Designer of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas program, along with Christopher W. Hodges, Consul General of the U.S. Consulate in Chennai. GITAM Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dayananda Siddavattam and ProVC Bengaluru Campus Prof. KNS Acharya added prominence to the event.

Dr. Kota Harinarayana, renowned engineer, academician, and Programme Director and Chief Designer of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas program, said, “There is a need for total rethinking about how sustainable technology must grow. I am happy GITAM has established (MURTI) in a record time. It is the right beginning with 13 areas that have been identified, and these are the areas where we make a change. Not only GITAM but also society at large will benefit. Our aim is now to connect the university with industry and the society.”

He further added “There is a need to re-engineer the engineering. It is a fundamental need. The way we generate energy, the way we store energy, the way we transmit energy, the whole thing has to be re-looked at. I believe that Mr. Christopher W. Hodges’ presence should ensure strong collaboration between U.S. academia, U.S. industry, Indian academia, Indian industry, and, in general, the society at large.”

U.S. Consul General Chennai Christopher W. Hodges, highlighted, “MURTI is the kind of integrated and dynamic research model we need for innovation and partnership that helps drive our economies and relationship forward.”

ProVC, GITAM, Bengaluru Campus, Prof. KNS Acharya emphasized, “Research and Development is incredibly crucial for academic institutions in India. It is pivotal in fostering innovation, advancing knowledge, and keeping academic curriculums and programs updated with the latest developments. It addresses critical challenges, fostering entrepreneurship, and developing solutions for industry and society. Viewed from the perspective of student-centered education, the MURTI initiative empowers students to transcend mere memorization and actively engage in real-world problem-solving within cutting-edge laboratory settings. It nurtures a mindset that embraces failure as a natural part of the experimentation process, fostering the development of both critical thinking and practical reasoning skills.”

Vice-Chancellor, of GITAM, Prof. Dayananda Siddavattam, remarked, “MURTI aims to create an interdisciplinary research culture under the leadership of eminent scholars, young researchers, and enthusiastic students to work on pressing global issues with local relevance. The university has invested 100 crores to upgrade the research infrastructure and to recruit young, talented research students from across the country as MURTI Excellence fellows. Bengaluru MURTI is destined to transform into a MURTI science park to create a knowledge hub and become an epicenter to generate knowledge technologies required to aid the region’s sustainable development. The MURTI Centre will actively collaborate with world-renowned research institutes like the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS), Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCAR), and Indian Institute of Science (IISc.), and a galaxy of software and hardware industry leaders to find solutions to some of the pressing problems of modern societies. The Centre will collaborate with the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, to bring AI-assisted agricultural practices to revolutionize crop protection, crop management, water conservation, and post-harvest technologies.”

The inauguration of the MURTI Research Centre signifies the institution’s commitment to fostering multidisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge research. The center aims to address global challenges and drive innovation with 6 key focus areas spanning Basic Sciences, Mobility Technologies, Materials and Manufacturing, Communication Technologies, Agriculture Technologies, and Sensor Technologies. The MURTI Research Centre boasts 13 modern labs equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and staffed with faculty and researchers from renowned global universities. From Drone Technologies to Quantum Infocomm, each lab is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and driving real-world impact.

The launch event offered exclusive insights into the research initiatives undertaken by the center, providing attendees with a tour of the state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities to engage with esteemed faculty and researchers. 

GITAM Bengaluru welcomes researchers, innovators, and collaborators worldwide to join us in our mission to harness the power of multidisciplinary research to drive positive change and create a brighter future for all.

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The inaugural ceremony was graced by guest of honor, Shri Rizwan Arshad, Minister of Karnataka Legislative Assembly; Shri Prithul Kumar, IRTS, Joint Secretary (Films), Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India & Interim Managing Director, National Film Development Corp. (NFDC); Mr. Kris Gopalakrishnan, Chairman Axilor Ventures, Co-founder Infosys, President Infosys Science Foundation; Mr. Thierry Berthelot, Consul General of France in Bangalore; Mr. Alfonso Tagliaferri, Consul General of Italy in Bengaluru; Ms. Nivruti Rai, MD, and CEO Invest India; Mr. Rajan Navani, Founder & CEO, JetSynthesys; Mr. Vishal Dhupar, Managing Director, Asia South – NVIDIA; Mr. Sai Srinivas Kiran Garimella; Co-Founder, MPL;  Mr. Ashish Kulkarni, Founder & CEO, Punnaryug Artvision Pvt. Ltd.; Mr. Sudhir Kamath, COO, Nazara Technologies; Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary to Government, Dept. of Electronics, IT, BT and S&T, Govt. of Karnataka; Mr. Biren Ghose, Country Head, Technicolor India and President, ABAI; Shri Darshan H V, IAS, Director, Department of Electronics, Information Technology & Biotechnology, Govt. of Karnataka; Mr. RK Chand, Executive Director, The Mill India & Secretary, ABAI.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka, Shri Siddaramaiah said, “I am pleased to inaugurate this congregation of the Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming & Comics (AVGC) industry at the 5th edition of Bengaluru GAFX. Karnataka has long been the torchbearer state in India across technology, innovation, and growth. We are proud to be the pioneers of leading the IT and IT-enabled services industries. Our state, a trailblazer in technology, is proud to lead the nation’s Media & Entertainment sector, contributing 20% to the industry. With over 15,000 professionals and 300 specialized studios, GAFX celebrates Karnataka’s role as a global AVGC hub. With a focus on generating 30,000 jobs by 2028, targeting 80% revenue from exports, the policy rests on six strategic pillars—emphasizing skill development, infrastructure, startup empowerment, global market access, incentives, and a ‘Mobile First’ approach. Since 2012, Karnataka has been a pioneering force, boasting 139 specialized institutes and Digital Art Centers, with the Karnataka Centre of Excellence (COE) serving as a unique facility nurturing creative technologists and technicians. As we delve into the next two days of discussions, let’s concentrate on the synergy of creativity and technology that defines our industry. Bengaluru GAFX 2024 provides the platform for government and industry collaboration, propelling the AVGC industry in India to new heights.”

A patron of Bengaluru GAFX 2024, Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology & Biotechnology and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Govt. of Karnataka said “Karnataka, a pioneer in evolving India’s AVGC policies, is committed to securing a future where it not only maintains the state’s leadership in traditional IT-BPM but emerges as a global powerhouse in AVGC-XR. With a vision to create 30,000 jobs by 2028, we shall leverage our existing strengths and additionally establish a center of excellence for Gaming. The state is also looking to help establish AVGC-XR-focused incubators. Bengaluru GAFX epitomizes our dedication to becoming a global skilling epicenter, aiming to position Karnataka as the world’s #1 hub for creativity and technological advancement. The Bengaluru GAFX B2B Forum acts as a catalyst, propelling local talent onto the global stage, and defining Karnataka as the leader in AVGC-XR intellectual property creation.”

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Shri Biren Ghose, ABAI President & Country Head, Technicolor India, said: “Bengaluru GAFX 2024, is a celebration of our wins and exploring new avenues for the all-round growth of AVGC in India. With diverse sessions, competitions, and networking opportunities, Bengaluru GAFX 2024 will witness a stellar lineup of speakers comprising industry veterans and thought leaders. The AVGC industry is on a continuous growth spree, and events like GAFX bring together studios, producers, and investors, creating a hub for gaming, film, animation, AR/VR, and comics. It’s more than an event; it’s a platform where innovation meets opportunity, shaping the future of India’s creative narrative on a global scale.

Bengaluru GAFX 2024 is set to host 120 sessions and 200 speakers, including more than 20 renowned international speakers hailing from 10 different countries. This impressive lineup features industry veterans and thought leaders, including winners of prestigious awards such as Oscars, British Arrows, VES Awards, Cannes Golds, and esteemed Indian accolades. Bengaluru GAFX stands out as a unique event in the AVGC industry, facilitating the convergence of Indian and international synergy. Both international and Indian studios, along with industry veterans, will present some of the largest and most critically acclaimed titles during the event.

• VFX: This edition will see some leading Indian & international names in the world of visual effects. Some mind-blowing visual effects showcase from Hollywood that wowed audiences the world over will be presented at GAFX including the Oscar-winning Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio, Antman & Wasp Quantamania, and The Fast & the Furious X. As well as the Making of Blockbuster LEO’s Photoreal Hyena VFX by multiple-Oscar winning studio MPC’s Jateen Thakkar & Nimish N Shah, the Making of Jurassic World by Industrial Light and Magic, London and Srinivas Mohan- the VFX Supervisor for RRR. The rise of VFX content in the Indian regional landscape will be further underscored by showcases from Ghost, Jawan, Animal, PS2, Charlie 777, and Vikrant Rona.
• Animation: Cutting-edge animation presentations and showcases include the animation of the Oscar-nominated movie Nimona by DNEG, Delivering Spectacular Animated Features from India by Oscar-nominated studio Mikros Animation, and Independent Global Animation Films by Assemblage, as well as How to Secure your IP for Content Creators by Zebu Animation. Greengold Animation will present its unique work on the Making of Chhota Bheem’s action movie.
• Gaming: Kalari Capital’s Vani Kola & Invest India CEO Nivruti Rai are slated to address the incredibly exciting gaming landscape of India in the session ‘Investor Speak – Strategies for Staying Relevant and Resilient in the Indian Gaming Startup Ecosystem.’ Leaders of the Gaming ecosystem Kris Gopalkrishnan- Chairman Axilor Ventures, Co-founder Infosys, President Infosys Science Foundation & Rajan Navani– Vice Chairman & Managing Director at JetLine Group of Companies; Founder & CEO JetSynthesys will address the gathering on The Indian Video Gaming and Esports Industry. MPL, Nazara Technologies, Nodwin Games, and Technicolor Games will present insightful panels and showcases on topics ranging from the ecosystem, technologies, talent, and game art & animation.

Moreover, the Bengaluru GAFX B2B Forum stands as a distinctive platform meticulously designed to connect IP owners, developers, content creators, and production houses aspiring to produce groundbreaking content. This event acts as an exclusive interface, attracting selected international and national studios, producers, broadcasters, distributors, and financiers. Esteemed industry figures like Rajeshwari Roy, Associate Chief Producer & Head of Content – Animation, Digital & Broadcast Media at Ramoji Group, Farnaz Esnaashari-Charmatz, Creator of Nickelodeon’s hit international franchise Shimmer and Shine, and Russell Tracy Jr. from Mikros Animation will contribute to the stellar industry lineup at this marketplace forum.

A diverse range of competitions is thoughtfully curated to engage the talents and potential of students and emerging professionals, representing the future workforce of India. Spanning from traditional artistry like Clay Sculpting to the digital realms of Sculpting and Painting, and venturing into the intricate world of 3D Character Animation, these competitions are carefully crafted by industry leaders. The primary objective is to nurture a sustained ecosystem that promotes a culture of progression, skill enrichment, and mentorship within the Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics (AVGC) realm in India.

In its fifth edition, Bengaluru GAFX and the B2B Forum continue to shape the future of the AVGC-XR industry, providing a platform that facilitates collaboration, innovation, and the exchange of ideas on a global scale. The event is organized with a steering committee covering all individual domains of VFX, Animation, and Gaming. GAFX will also witness the participation of AVGC trade associations from other states, including TVAGA from Telangana.

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The Bengaluru GAFX B2B has evolved into a unique platform, connecting IP owners, developers, content creators, technology specialists, production houses, and AVGC studios. Fueled by the mission to promote local and national storytellers, and intellectual property (IP), and drive innovation in the AVGC-XR sector, this two-day event serves as a unique marketplace bringing the world to our doorstep and enabling the developers to meet a selection of the global who’s who actively seeking to develop and produce fresh AVGC content. It brings together under one roof, international & national studios, producers, broadcasters, distributors, and investors for captivating pitches in gaming, film, animation, AR/VR, and comics.

Various trade associations from across the country, led by ABAI, have collaborated to propel Bengaluru GAFX 2024, furthering the importance of the GAFX platform environment as a unifying force that encourages cross-border synergy and alliance on a national scale.

The Bengaluru GAFX B2B aims to stand as the IP epicenter, where transformative deals are initiated and concluded. Nestled in Bengaluru, Karnataka, this creative exchange aspires to be the ‘go-to market’ for local storytellers and IP creators. 

The goal is to ensure that locally crafted narratives and co-production opportunities can see life at a faster rate. For buyers, Bengaluru GAFX B2B offers a gateway to explore diverse creative content and engage in cross-border collaborations with skilled creators and studios, across games and animation, enriching the global creative landscape. Co-productions will find the new financing opportunities in India a welcome feature.  

Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Electronics, Information Technology & Biotechnology and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Govt. of Karnataka, expressed his vision as regards this AVGC-B2B, “The Bengaluru GAFX B2B Forum underscores Karnataka’s commitment to accelerating innovation and nurturing local talent in the AVGC-XR sector. As we mark the fourth edition of this event, it exemplifies our dedication to continuing the position of Karnataka as a country’s #1 global hub for creativity and technological advancement in visual arts and sciences. In recognizing the intrinsic link between technology and creativity, the state government envisions Bengaluru GAFX B2B to be the catalyst and enabler to bridge these opportunities. By providing a platform for local talent to showcase their wherewithal on an international stage, we aim to position Karnataka as the leader in IP creation in the Indian AVGC-XR industry.”

“This forum is more than just an event; it reflects our vision for Karnataka—a place where local innovators, developers, and content creators thrive in synergy with their global counterparts,” he added. 

Reflecting on the success of previous B2B forums, Shri Biren Ghose, President of ABAI & Country Head, of Technicolor India, emphasized the significance of business development through original IP. Describing the B2B Summit as a marketplace event, Ghose outlined the charter of the association by saying, “We have a proven dynamic of facilitating the interaction between the global community of buyers from across sectors and geography and local Indian domestic studios & talent. This platform provides vital face-to-face connectivity, spurring Indian creators and studios to greater heights of ideation leading to commissioning, acquiring, and co-producing content. Business development through original IP is the key to future value creation and scaling the original content ecosystem.”

In its fourth edition, the Bengaluru GAFX and the B2B Forum continue to shape the future of the AVGC-XR industry, creating a platform that facilitates collaboration, innovation, and the exchange of ideas on a global scale.

B2B Registration Link: https://gafx.in/b2b.html 

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