Telangana Positioning Itself as Innovation Hub, Says IT Minister Sridhar Babu
Hyderabad, June 19 (TNT): Telangana IT and Industries Minister Sridhar Babu on Friday said the State is positioning itself at the forefront of India’s innovation-driven growth and called upon entrepreneurs, innovators and investors to leverage the opportunities being created through the government’s technology and startup initiatives.
Addressing the Hyderabad Economic Forum (HEF) 2026, organised under the theme “One City. One Vision. Infinite Possibilities”, the Minister said nations that attract ideas, talent and innovation would lead the global economy in the 21st century.
Referring to India’s rise from 81st to 39th position in the Global Innovation Index over the past decade, he said the country’s innovation ecosystem has witnessed significant growth and Telangana has emerged as one of its leading centres.
Sridhar Babu said India is now the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem and Telangana has been recognised as a top-performing state in the Centre’s Startup Rankings.
He highlighted several initiatives being undertaken by the State Government, including AIKAM, Telangana Data Exchange (TGDeX), a proposed Rs 1,000-crore Fund of Funds for Startups, an AI University, a Skill University and 100 Advanced ITIs aimed at strengthening innovation, entrepreneurship and skill development.
The Minister said the government was also focusing on preparing students for the future economy through AI-enabled classrooms and the AI Literacy Mission, under which nearly 20 lakh government school students are being equipped with emerging technology skills.
Inviting innovators and entrepreneurs to invest in Telangana, he said the State offers a conducive ecosystem for nurturing ideas and transforming them into successful enterprises.
The two-day forum featured deliberations on economic growth, infrastructure, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, Global Capability Centres (GCCs), entrepreneurship, investments, life sciences, real estate, education, hospitality and sports infrastructure.
SAS Infra Chairman G.V. Rao said Hyderabad’s growth story is being driven by multiple sectors, including technology, life sciences, real estate, retail, sports and entertainment.
More than 20 speakers participated in keynote sessions, panel discussions and fireside chats during the event.
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