Karnataka First

The Karntaka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM) supported setting up 40 new Global Ccapacity Centres (GCC) in Bengaluru and 10 in Beyond Bengaluru clusters in the financial year 2024-25, as per KDEM’s annual report released on Tuesday. 

The State currently hosts more than 880 GCCs, up from around 500 GCCs in 2021. 

Samir Venugopal, VP at KDEM, highlighted that GCC talent in the State has gone up from around 3.5 lakh in FY 2021 to 6.5 lakh in FY 2026. He also noted that Bengaluru has recorded the highest absorption of office space for three consecutive quarters.

Startups surge

According to the report, the year also saw the number of DPIIT-registered startups in the State rising to 16700. With the Beyond Bengaluru push, more than 3300 startups were registered in cities outside Bengaluru.  

According to the officials, four corporate proposals have been approved to train people under the Nipuna Scheme, and the programme will go live soon. Around 10,000 beneficiaries expected. 

Beyond Bengaluru 

Sanjeev Gupta, CEO at KDEM, noted that the Beyond Bengaluru clusters have seen 15 GCCs in the last three years. According to him, 11,10,000 sqft of IT park infrastructure is now available in these clusters.  

In the coming year, under the initiative, KDEM aims to onboard 30 new companies, with 10 in each of the clusters, including Mysuru, Mangaluru and the Hubballi-Belagavi-Dharwad cluster. KDEM data suggests that 126 new companies have been set up across the clusters and more than 5,500 jobs have been generated so far under the Beyond Bengaluru programme. 

For the coming year, the initiative aims to anchor 10 plus next-gen GCCs that focus on AI, cybersecurity, semiconductor, climate tech, and healthtech, and to form three clusters of NRI forums outside India to network and invite investment opportunities to the clusters.

Reset needed

While the State continues to lead on many fronts, Bhaskar Verma, regional director at Nasscom, remarked that it is time for a reset. “While we can keep on talking about Karnataka numbers, the neighbouring State is taking a little lead,” he said, citing a recent Nasscom report. “While we still have huge numbers, we have to see what needs to be done differently,” he said.

The event also saw an MoU being launched between STPI and KDEM. Arvind Kumar, Director General of STPI, said that consumer internet was a low-hanging fruit when the ecosystem was being created, and startups are now more serious about creating sustainable systems. “I have been seeing scientists from institutions like ISRO and DRDO leaving to join startups, and to serve the country,” he said.

Rahul Sharanappa, MD, KITS, hoped for a 5x improvement in the achievements that KDEM has gained so far, in the coming years. 

source/content: thehindu.com (headline edited)

The State of Berlin opened a representative business office in Bengaluru on Wednesday, the first such office in India and the third globally after New York and Beijing.

The inauguration of the office comes eight months after the capital city of Germany signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Karnataka to further start-up growth in both cities and facilitate innovation and talent exchange.

“The Berlin office in Bengaluru is part of our decision to be present here continuously,” said Franziska Giffey, Mayor of Berlin and Senator/Minister for Economic Affairs, Energy and Enterprises.

Export increase to India

“The focus would be inbound, outbound, and talent,” she said, elaborating that the office would support talent migration from India to Germany or Indian students who wish to study in Germany and companies from either of the countries who wish to invest in the other.

According to her, the Indian population in Berlin has risen significantly, which has gone up from around 2,000 a decade ago to around 45,000 currently. She noted that exports from Berlin to India witnessed a significant rise in 2025. 

“Berlin’s average export increase was 6% last year, whereas to India the exports increased by 21%,” she said.

Berlin’s imports from India totaled €285 million last year, compared to €169 million in exports to India during the same period, she added.

Start-up cities

Emphasising the parallels between Bengaluru and Berlin, Ms. Giffey observed that Bengaluru is regarded as the Silicon Valley of India, and Berlin as that of Germany.

“Our target is to become the most innovative place in Europe. We want to be at the forefront of international competition. For that, we have to broaden our mind, which means not just limit our focus to the United States or European countries, but also work with the Asian market and partners,” she said.

Berlin hosts the largest start-up ecosystem in Germany with about 6,000 start-ups that employ around 100,000 people.

“When we looked at which city was the best fit for Berlin, we felt Bengaluru could be a strong partner. There is the potential for cooperation in key technology areas and innovation. Then there is also the aspect of our demographic change on the one hand and India’s very young population on the other. We also see the potential for economic growth,” Ms. Giffey said.

source/content: thehindu.com (headline edited)

Operation Quench Thirst initiative by PfA Wildlife Hospital focuses on replenishing critical water sources inside Turahalli Forest through daily water tanker deployments and installation of water troughs while also refilling and sustaining existing natural water sources.

The PfA Wildlife Hospital, a non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting and rehabilitating urban wildlife, has been running Operation Quench Thirst to ensure regular replenishment of water sources inside Turahalli forest in Bengaluru.

The NGO said that every summer, spotted deer are among the most commonly rescued animals along the edges of Turahalli forest, often found injured after encountering dangers that arise when they stray out of forest zones, including road accidents.

“In 2025 alone, PfA rescued many spotted deer under such circumstances,” it said,

It added that deer, peafowl, golden jackals, babblers and mynas are frequently rescued near forest boundaries during peak summer, highlighting the growing stress on wildlife due to drying water sources.

“When water sources inside forests dry up, animals are forced to move out in search of water. That’s when we see an increase in injuries, conflict, and distress — most of which are preventable,” said Colonel. Dr. Navaz Shariff, Chief Wildlife Veterinarian, PfA Wildlife Hospital.

It added that the Operation Quench Thirst initiative focuses on replenishing critical water sources inside Turahalli Forest through daily water tanker deployments and installation of water troughs, which have been strategically installed across Turahalli and KB kaval forest ranges, while also refilling and sustaining existing natural water sources within the forest ecosystem.

The initiative is carried out in collaboration with the Karnataka Forest Department and with support from the citizens of Bengaluru.

“Providing water within the forest is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect wildlife and reduce conflict with humans,” Dr. Shariff said.

The forest supports a rich diversity of species including leopards, spotted deer, wild boars, golden jackals, mongooses, hares and peafowl, along with birds such as owls, barbets, cuckoos, babblers and white-rumped shama, and several snake species.

PfA added that it continues to receive multiple rescue calls daily for dehydrated animals and birds, further underlining the urgent need for sustained water support both inside forests and across urban spaces.

source/content: thehindu.com (headline edited)

In a historic moment for Konkani literature, the Central Sahitya Akademi has announced the 2025 Annual Award for H M Pernal’s seminal work of literary criticism, Konkani Kavyem: Rupam ani Rupakam (Konkani Poetry: Forms and Metaphors). This recognition marks the first time in history that a book of criticism in the Konkani language has been honoured with this prestigious national award. Published by Kavita Publications in both Devanagari and Kannada scripts, the book features an insightful foreword by Jnanpith Award-winning author Damodar Mauzo.

The recipient, Henry Ignatius Mendonca, who has written under the pen name H M Pernal for over 35 years, hails from Pernal in Udupi district. This award brings the Sahitya Akademi honour back to Karnataka after a gap of eight years, following previous laureates from the region such as Chafra D’Costa, Gokuldas Prabhu, Melvyn Rodrigues, and Edwin J F D’Souza. Besides, J. B. Moraes and J B Sequeira, Mangaloreans resided in Mumbai also got this award.  Pernal is a prolific figure in the literary circuit, having previously published acclaimed poetry collections such as Chalyank Chatray, Kaydyachyo Kavita, and Janel, as well as short story collections including Devak Sodlo Pado and Beeg ani Bigath.

In his evaluation of the work, Jnanpith laureate Damodar Mauzo noted that Pernal’s book represents a monumental step towards viewing Konkani literature as a singular, unified entity despite its distribution across various scripts and regions. Mauzo praised the author for his rare ability to transcend the divide between Canara Konkani and Goan Konkani, offering a comparative study that includes legendary and contemporary poets like Manohar Rai Sardesai, R V Pandit, and Wilfy Rebimbus. He further highlighted that Pernal’s deep authority and vast reading make this book an invaluable gift to scholars and a defining guide for the future growth of Konkani poetry.

H M Pernal currently serves as the editor of the literary portal Kittall.com and the publisher of the monthly magazine Arso. His previous accolades include the Vimal V Pai Best Book Award from Vishwa Konkani Kendra and the Mathias Kutam Kavita Award.

source/content: daijiworld.com (headline edited)

The present test qualified the sea level testing of the engine with a test duration of 165 seconds.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Thursday announced the successful completion of sea level hot test of its Cryogenic engine (CE20) at 22 tonne thrust using nozzle protection system and multi-element igniter. The test was conducted on March 10, 2026, at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri. ISRO said earlier sea level tests were done using the 19-tonne thrust level.

The CE20 cryogenic engines power the upper cryogenic stage of LVM3 launch vehicles. To enhance the LVM3’s payload capability for future missions, the uprated C32 stage with 22 tonne thrust for the CE20 engine is planned to be used.

The present test qualified the sea level testing of the engine with a test duration of 165 seconds. The performance of the engine and the test facility was as expected during the entire test duration,” ISRO scientists said in their report.

Due to the high area ratio nozzle, testing the CE20 engine at sea level had many challenges. The concerns included flow separation inside the nozzle, which leads to severe vibrations and thermal problems at the flow separation plane, leading to possible mechanical damage of the nozzle.

source/content: newindianexpress.com (headline edited)

The Directorate of Cashew Research (DCR), under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, at Puttur by joining hands with Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University (KVAFSU) is developing a technology to produce fish feed from cashew apple, J. Dinakara Adiga, Director, DCR said on Wednesday.

Speaking at an industry interface meeting on ‘cashew apple to market’ organised by the DCR on the Cashew Day at Puttur, he said that the initiative is to make further value addition to cashew apple, in addition to various value added products of cashew apple developed by the DCR using its technologies. The fish feed will be in the form of pomace powder (of cashew apple), the Director said.

Mr. Adiga said that the country produced about 60 lakh tonnes of cashew apple per annum. But only 1 % of the production is being used for value addition. There is immense potential for making value addition of cashew apple which otherwise goes waste.

He said entrepreneurs who produce value added products of cashew apple should ensure that the products will have pan India coverage.

Mr. Adiga said that eight kg of cashew apple can be harvested while producing one kg of cashew nut. “About eight tonnes of cashew apple can be harvested from one hectare of cashew orchard,” he said.

Shree Padre, a senior farm and developmental journalist and Executive Editor of ‘Adike Pathrike’, said that Brazil used 20 % to 25 % of its cashew apple for making value added products.

The end products of researches made at government institutes should come out of the shelves and their benefits should reach farmers and farm entrepreneurs, Mr. Padre said.

By serving the value added products of cashew apple developed by the DCR to the food sector entrepreneurs at the meeting, the scientists of the Directorate sought feedback for further improving them.

source/content: thehindu.com (headline edited)

Pixxel will provide micro-grants for women researchers working on projects related to climate resilience and environment.

Pixxel, a Bengaluru-based planetary intelligence company on the occasion of International Women’s Day, has announced the launch of Shakuntala Grants, a programme supporting women researchers studying our planet while opening pathways for the next generation to discover science.

In partnership with Escape Velocity Grants, Pixxel will provide micro-grants for women researchers working on projects related to climate resilience and environment.

“These small, timely grants enable fieldwork, pilot studies, data collection, equipment purchases, or exploratory research that might otherwise remain unfunded, particularly for independent researchers and early-career practitioners working close to the ground,” Pixxel said.

Pixxel is also partnering with Saare Tare Zameen Par Trust, a non-profit recognised by Indian Space Research Organisation as an official Space Tutor, to advance STEM learning opportunities for students through its flagship Spark of Curiosity programme, which has reached over 7 million government school students across India.

The initiative focuses on immersive, hands-on science education through activities such as science kits, digital planetarium shows, and interactive learning modules designed to build curiosity and conceptual understanding among girls in government schools. This will be implemented at GMPGS Devanahalli Middle School, helping extend experiential STEM learning for girls in the region.

“The future of science and technology can only be truly inclusive if women shape it at every level, from classrooms to research labs to leadership roles. At Pixxel, nearly 48% of our leadership roles are currently held by women, and the Shakuntala Grants build on that commitment, expanding opportunities for women to lead work that advances critical knowledge about our planet,” Awais Ahmed, founder and CEO and Tanya Pallavi, head of people practices, Pixxel, said.

Vinod Kumar, director promotions, IN-SPACe, said, “The launch of the Shakuntala Initiative by Pixxel is a commendable step toward bridging the gender gap in India’s rapidly evolving space sector. At the IN-SPACe, we believe that the next frontier of space innovation-especially in critical areas like climate change and environmental monitoring- will be defined by the talent and perspectives of our women researchers. By providing targeted funding and community support, this initiative not only honours the legacy of trailblazers like Shakuntala Devi but also empowers the next generation of women to lead India’s space-tech revolution from the front.”

source/content: thehindu.com (headline edited)

Farmland Rainwater Harvesting Systems, a leading innovator in sustainable water solutions based in Chikkamagaluru, has been honoured with the Water Transversality Global Award 2026 in the Rainwater Harvesting and Groundwater Management category. This national-level recognition celebrates the company’s outstanding contributions to promoting rooftop rainwater harvesting systems and sustainable groundwater recharge practices across residential, commercial, institutional and public sectors.

The award was presented by Om Birla, speaker of the Lok Sabha, during the 2nd edition of the Water Transversality Global Awards & Conclave held recently at the India International Centre in New Delhi. The ceremony was attended by distinguished dignitaries, including Dr Satya Tripathi, secretary general of the Global Alliance for a Sustainable Planet, and Dr Arvind Kumar, president of the India Water Foundation (IWF). The award was graciously received on behalf of the organization by Varun Rinaldo Baptist, director, Farmland Rainwater Harvesting Systems.

Farmland Rainwater Harvesting Systems has been at the forefront of addressing India’s growing water scarcity challenges through practical, scalable technologies. The company designs and implements effective rainwater harvesting systems that capture rooftop runoff, facilitate groundwater recharge, and promote long-term water conservation. By raising awareness and delivering real-world solutions, Farmland has empowered communities, institutions, and industries to build resilience against water stress while supporting environmental sustainability.

The Water Transversality Global Awards, organized by the India Water Foundation, recognize organizations, leaders, and innovators who adopt integrated, cross-sectoral approaches to water management—linking water with energy, environment, health, climate resilience, and ESG principles.

Commenting on the honour, Varun Rinaldo Baptist said, “This award is a proud validation of our team’s dedication to innovative rainwater harvesting and groundwater management. We remain committed to scaling practical solutions that help combat water scarcity and foster a sustainable future for India and beyond.”

Farmland Rainwater Harvesting Systems maintains a strong pan-India presence and growing global footprint, specializing in the design, supply, and installation of turnkey rainwater harvesting projects and customized solutions. With a widespread dealer network across India and exports to over 20 countries, the company delivers scalable systems for rooftop runoff capture, groundwater recharge, and long-term water conservation—empowering residential, commercial, institutional, and agricultural clients nationwide and internationally.

source/content: daijiworld.com (headline edited)

Chimy Nanjappa’s passion for Karnataka’s textiles and crafts lives on at the Vimor Museum of Living Textiles in Bengaluru.

When one speaks of textiles and fine crafts in Karnataka, the Cauvery Handicrafts Emporium on MG Road in Bengaluru is one of the first places that comes to mind. The shelves of the state-owned emporium are packed with a vast array of the traditional crafts of Karnataka—from intricate silver-based Bidriware items to charming Channapatna toys. However, this wasn’t always so. And one of the people who painstakingly worked to transform the emporium into a showcase of the state’s finest creations was the late Chimy Nanjappa.

Chimy was selected to head the emporium in the late 1950s—then known as Mysore Arts and Crafts Emporium—by its governing board, which included many women, including Sudha Reddy, a proponent of Indian handicrafts.

“It was not a cakewalk for her. In those days, women did not work and close up a place as huge as Cauvery and then walk home at 8 pm,” Chimy’s daughter, Pavithra Muddaya, recalls.

Born in 1928 in Madikeri, Chimy did not have an easy childhood as she lost both parents by the age of nine. She went on to pursue higher education in Chennai, securing a BCom degree, and later settled in Bengaluru after marrying advocate A C Nanjappa. With the family facing financial difficulties in the early days, she began working as an assistant manager at Cauvery Handicrafts Emporium, before being promoted to manager.

“She had nothing by way of a background in the field and had previously done accounts work…but life forces you to take up opportunities,” says Muddaya, adding that her mother always said that women need to work and be financially independent. She also credits her father’s role in encouraging and supporting Chimy, recalling him as a person who held views that would be considered progressive even today.

In the early days, says Muddaya, several dignitaries visited Cauvery Handicrafts Emporium and were hosted by Chimy—from Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to Sri Lankan premier Sirimavo Bandaranaike, and even a young Queen Elizabeth.

In 1963, cultural activist and author Pupul Jayakar, a major mover in the revival of traditional crafts and culture, recruited Chimy to represent Indian textiles at the New York World Fair the next year. It turned out to be a success, says Muddaya, recounting what an IAS officer familiar with the event told her. “Good lord, nobody could go past her without buying something!”

Later, Chimy was offered an opportunity to head an outlet anywhere in the world under the Handicrafts and Handlooms Export Corporation, but declined, refusing to be a “second-class citizen” in a foreign country.

After A C Nanjappa passed away in 1974, Chimy went on to start the Vimor Handlooms, a home store specialising in handloom sarees and textiles. Muddaya remembers, “No one who came to her for help was sent away…she would give weavers’ addresses to people. Freedom fighter and social reformer Kamala Devi Chattopadhyay would say that anyone coming to the Regional Design Centre (on Church Street) without a recommendation could ask my mother for one.” Vimor would go on to revive many traditional sari styles, such as one dubbed the ‘Cubbonpete’ sari.

Those interested in Chimy Nanjappa’s legacy in textiles may visit Vimor Museum of Living Textiles after making an appointment. The exhibits on display include saris up to a century old, in styles that are not often seen today.

source/content: indianexpress.com (headline edited)

Mohan Rao Goli, managing director of Samsung R&D Institute India-Bangalore (SRI-B), was the chief guest while Srimanu Prasad and Dr Lokesh R Boregowda from Samsung were the guests of honour.

 Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology recently launched a Samsung Innovation Campus at Yelahanka university campus. Karnataka Science and Technology Academy chairperson Prof AH Rajasab inaugurated the facility.

“Our curriculum is inadequate to prepare our students to become future leaders in the domains of science and technology. It is essential that our education fosters critical thinking in light of technological advancements, enabling students to progress further,” said Prof Rajasab, adding that this year, a total of 80 students have been selected for training in the field of artificial intelligence.

Mohan Rao Goli, managing director of Samsung R&D Institute India-Bangalore (SRI-B), was the chief guest while Srimanu Prasad and Dr Lokesh R Boregowda from Samsung were the guests of honour.

The event was chaired by Vishal Hegde, chancellor of Nitte (Deemed to be University). Principal of NMIT Dr HC Nagaraj, trustee of Nitte Education Trust Rohit Punja, Vice President (Bengaluru campus) of Nitte (Deemed to be University) Prof Sandeep Shastri, and more were present.

source/content: newindianexpress.com (headline edited)