Uncovering CII Karnataka is using AI to drive the state’s next phase of industrial growth—putting the spotlight on sunrise sectors, clean energy, and MSMEs. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Karnataka, has a comprehensive AI-centric roadmap to enhance the competitiveness of the state in the global context. At a press conference on Thursday, CII said it will focus on AI-led transformation, promote sunrise sectors, and create and build capabilities for MSMEs to enable a resilient and future-focused ecosystem.
AI Becomes the Foundation of Industrial Change
Rabindra Srikantan, Chairman of CII Karnataka and MD of ASM Technologies, said the industry must lead with AI-first strategies. “We’re building an agile ecosystem that pushes Karnataka ahead in semiconductors, design-led manufacturing, AI-powered production, and clean energy,” he said. CII’s plan focuses on using AI across the value chain—from smart manufacturing to real-time automation. The goal is not just digital adoption but full-scale industrial transformation. It is done by using AI as a core engine for innovation and growth.
Sunrise Sectors to Get AI Support
CII is betting big on sunrise sectors. In particular, those that guarantee long-term returns such as clean energy and next-gen infrastructure. Srikantan said that when combined with AI, these emerging areas will deliver advances in efficiency and sustainability. Srikantan said CII is collaborating with global technology partners. The start-ups to enabling AI to take part in clean energy systems, smart grid management, and advanced manufacturing. “We’re building connections between AI labs and real-world business problems to fast-track adoption,” he noted.
MSMEs’ Capacity Building Takes Priority
Empowering MSMEs with AI tools is central to CII’s roadmap. The organization aims to help smaller businesses in Tier 2 and 3 cities adopt AI through mentorship, training, and hands-on platforms.
Guruprasad Mudlapur, Vice Chairman of CII Karnataka and President of Bosch India, said, “We’re supporting MSMEs with smarter operations, predictive systems, and data-driven decision-making.” CII is also pushing sustainability programs powered by AI to help MSMEs reduce waste and stay compliant. The aim is to bring AI to the grassroots so smaller firms can become globally competitive and resilient.
Expanding Growth Beyond Bengaluru
CII wants to move the focus beyond Bengaluru. One way it’s doing this is by scaling Global Capability Centres (GCCs) across the state. These centers are changing from basic support functions to innovation hubs with AI as the driving force. Widerising aims to simplify items like policy, infrastructure, ease of doing business, etc. CII is also engaging government and academia to assist with the adoption of AI-driven investments and trust across industries. This inclusive initiative is meant to allow every area of Karnataka to benefit from AI, whether major or small manufacturers.
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