Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar spearheaded the launch of an ambitious new initiative—a Rs 1,000 crore Quantum City (“Q-City”) planned on the outskirts of Bengaluru.
Designed to position the State at the forefront of quantum talent and innovation, Q-City is set to become India’s first dedicated ecosystem for quantum research, start-ups, and industry collaboration.
Inaugurating the project, Shivakumar emphasized its strategic importance, stating, “This is not merely an infrastructure project—it is Karnataka’s commitment to future technology, job creation, and global competitiveness. Quantum computing is the next frontier and we intend to lead.”
Key features of the Q-City project include a Quantum Innovation Center that will house research labs, co-working spaces, and incubation facilities for startups.
Also a Quantum Academy with fellowship programs, post-graduate courses, and executive training in collaboration with global universities and an Industry Collaboration Zone where firms can conduct trial deployments, joint research, and prototype development are other features.
Shivakumar has been actively coordinating across ministries and research institutions to accelerate clearances, funding, and research partnerships. His leadership has ensured that both state and central agencies are aligned with timelines, enabling Q-City to be functional within 18 months.
“Karnataka has always been a hub for IT and biotech,” Shivakumar remarked. “Now we are adding quantum science to our legacy. Our goal is that Q-City becomes not just a state asset, but a national benchmark for innovation.”
Representatives from premier institutions—including IISc, Indian Institutes of Technology, and several unicorn and deeptech startups—were part of the announcement. With a projected timeline of 24 months for full operational capacity, Q-City promises to host over 1,500 researchers and generate more than 10,000 tech jobs.
Political analysts point to Shivakumar’s hands-on management and drive as critical in turning the vision into reality. By positioning Karnataka at the cutting edge of quantum innovation, he aims to reward the state’s youth with next-generation opportunities, boosting both local talent retention and global competitiveness.
If realised on schedule, Q-City under DK Shivakumar’s stewardship could form the bedrock of Karnataka’s high-tech economy for decades to come.