Kerala has extended invitations to top-tier technology companies in Bengaluru to consider the coastal state for expansion following reports of a water crisis in the country’s tech hub. P. Rajeeve, Kerala’s Industries & Law Minister, revealed the state’s proactive approach, highlighting Kerala’s abundant water resources as a significant advantage.
The tech industry in Bengaluru, generating revenue upwards of $254 billion, faces a daily water shortage of approximately 500 million litres, especially with the onset of summer. In response, Kerala is positioning itself as an attractive alternative, boasting 44 rivers and excellent infrastructure.
Several real estate giants like the Prestige Group and Brigade Group have already invested in tech parks in cities like Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram. Infopark in Kochi, in collaboration with private developers, further strengthens Kerala’s appeal. The state offers excellent connectivity with four international airports, robust road, rail, and port networks.
Kerala has established a dedicated team to attract investments, with Rajeeve emphasizing the ambition to develop the entire state into a tech hub akin to Silicon Valley. Despite already hosting established tech facilities like Infopark (Kochi), Technopark (Thiruvananthapuram), and Cyberpark (Kozhikode), Kerala plans to establish smaller IT parks along proposed corridors to support fresh investments.
Recent developments, such as IBM’s expansion in Kochi, signal promising growth prospects. With ambitious targets to increase tech sector employment to one million workers within five years, Kerala plans to establish four IT corridors along the coast. Additionally, science parks under university leadership and India’s first digital university in Thiruvananthapuram underscore Kerala’s commitment to fostering innovation and technology-driven industries.
