Bengaluru is set to redefine its technological landscape with the inauguration of District I, a sprawling 28-million-square-foot innovation hub located within the Bengaluru Airport City. Launched on June 17, 2025, this ambitious project is a collaborative effort between the Karnataka government, Bengaluru Airport City Ltd. (BACL), and tech services firm ANSR.
District I aims to position Bengaluru at the forefront of global innovation, focusing on cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, blockchain, and customer experience (CX). Strategically situated near Kempegowda International Airport, District I is poised to become a nexus for startups, global capability centres (GCCs), academic institutions, venture capitalists, and public sector entities. The hub is designed to foster collaboration and innovation across various sectors, including aerospace, defence, smart cities, retail, telecommunications, space, and banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI). By integrating these diverse stakeholders, District I seeks to create a dynamic ecosystem that accelerates the development and commercialisation of advanced technologies.
The establishment of District I aligns with Karnataka’s broader vision to bolster its position as a leader in the global technology arena. The state has previously announced initiatives such as the Centre for Applied AI for Tech Solutions (CATS) and the Quantum Research Park (QuRP) Phase-2, with investments of ₹50 crore and ₹48 crore, respectively, to support advancements in AI and quantum research . These efforts are complemented by the proposed establishment of three Global Innovation Districts in Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Belagavi, aimed at attracting GCCs and fostering innovation . District I is not only a technological initiative but also a testament to Karnataka’s commitment to sustainable urban development.
The Bengaluru Airport City, encompassing District I, is being developed as a smart urban zone powered by renewable energy and aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This approach ensures that innovation goes hand-in-hand with environmental responsibility, creating a model for future urban developments. With the integration of world-class infrastructure, a collaborative ecosystem, and a focus on frontier technologies, District I is poised to become a catalyst for transformative change in Bengaluru’s tech landscape. As the hub begins to take shape, it is expected to attract global talent, foster groundbreaking research, and contribute significantly to the state’s economic growth and technological advancement.
Also Read :Citywide drain upgrades planned to safeguard Chennai this monsoon
