Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Thursday held discussions with senior representatives of artificial intelligence company Anthropic to explore collaboration in citizen-centric governance, artificial intelligence education, scientific research, startup development and the state’s proposed AI University initiative.
The meeting, held at Vidhana Soudha, focused on leveraging artificial intelligence to improve public services, strengthen Karnataka’s innovation ecosystem and promote responsible AI adoption across sectors.
Focus on AI-driven governance
The meeting was attended by Anthropic’s Head of International Policy Michael Sellitto, Karnataka Minister for Electronics, IT/BT and Home Priyank Kharge, Finance Adviser L K Atheeq and other senior government officials.
Following the discussions, Chief Minister D K Shivakumar said the government had explored the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and the scope for collaboration in multiple areas.
He said the discussions covered citizen-centric governance, skilling programmes, scientific research, startup enablement and the proposed AI University, which aims to position Karnataka as a leading hub for AI innovation.
The Chief Minister reiterated that Karnataka has consistently adopted emerging technologies to improve governance and public welfare, adding that the government remains committed to ensuring artificial intelligence is developed and deployed responsibly.
AI to improve public services
During the meeting, Shivakumar sought Anthropic’s expertise on using artificial intelligence to reduce fraud in government systems and improve the security and confidentiality of question paper preparation for examinations conducted by government departments and educational institutions.
The discussions also explored how AI could enhance administrative efficiency while maintaining high standards of data security.
Officials highlighted the potential of AI-powered solutions to streamline government services, improve decision-making and strengthen cybersecurity across public institutions.
Vision for AI University
The Karnataka government presented its vision of creating a comprehensive AI ecosystem centred around the proposed AI University.
According to officials, the initiative aims to combine academic research, industry collaboration and large-scale skill development to prepare students and professionals for emerging opportunities in artificial intelligence.
The government also outlined plans to promote deep-tech innovation and strengthen the state’s position as India’s technology and startup capital.
Skilling and certification programmes
Another key area of discussion was AI talent development through specialised certification programmes.
Both sides discussed introducing AI-focused certification courses, including Claude certification, under Karnataka’s NIPUNA initiative to equip students and professionals with practical AI skills.
The proposed programmes are expected to enhance workforce readiness and support the growing demand for AI expertise across industries.
Healthcare, startups and responsible AI
The meeting also covered the application of artificial intelligence in healthcare, scientific research and enterprise operations.
Discussions included the importance of responsible AI practices, data privacy, data sovereignty and ethical deployment of AI technologies.
The delegation and state government also explored opportunities to support Karnataka’s startup ecosystem, particularly deep-tech ventures working on artificial intelligence solutions.
Officials said continued engagement between the Karnataka government and Anthropic could help accelerate AI-led innovation while ensuring technology remains secure, inclusive and beneficial to society.
Strengthening Karnataka’s innovation ecosystem
The Chief Minister said Karnataka would continue supporting collaborative initiatives that expand the state’s innovation ecosystem and create better opportunities for citizens.
He emphasised that the government’s approach would focus on making the benefits of artificial intelligence inclusive, responsible and accessible while strengthening public services and fostering innovation-driven economic growth.
Both sides agreed to continue discussions on future collaborations aimed at advancing AI research, governance and entrepreneurship in Karnataka.
