India boosts AI education in Karnataka and cites 2.5 million jobs from startup growth

The Karnataka government approved the creation of 50 artificial‑intelligence laboratories in government colleges across the state. Funded through the central AI Mission, each lab will receive about ₹68.98 lakh over three years, with an additional ₹10 crore state allocation. The facilities aim to give Tier‑2 and Tier‑3 students hands‑on experience in AI, machine learning, data science and related technologies, enhancing employability and supporting the digital economy.

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted that India’s startup ecosystem has generated roughly 24‑25 lakh jobs over the past decade. The number of startups has risen from a few hundred to about 2.3 lakh, making the country the world’s third‑largest startup hub. Initiatives such as the RISE Conclave and the public‑private aerospace incubation centre ‘mach33.aero’ are cited as drivers of innovation and job creation.