05 - 08 - 2026

Bengaluru INDIA NANO 2026 Opens with Focus on AI, Deep-Tech and Commercialisation of Nanotechnology

Karnataka reaffirmed its ambition to lead India’s deep-tech revolution as Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar inaugurated the 14th edition of Bengaluru INDIA NANO 2026, bringing together leading scientists, researchers, industry executives, startups and policymakers to explore the convergence of nanotechnology, artificial intelligence and advanced materials.

Organised by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka, Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS) and the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), the event is centred on the theme “Nanotech’s Next Frontier: AI & Beyond – Conceive, Converge, Commercialize.”

In his inaugural address, Shivakumar said Karnataka was laying the foundation for the next era of scientific leadership by creating an ecosystem where research is translated into real-world impact. “The future belongs to those who can translate research into real-world impact, and Bengaluru INDIA NANO demonstrates our commitment to building an ecosystem where science, industry and innovation come together to solve global challenges,” he said, adding that the state aims to lead not only in digital technologies but also in nanotechnology, semiconductors, advanced materials and deep-tech innovation.

The event also honoured Bharat Ratna Prof. C.N.R. Rao for his pioneering contributions to nanotechnology, while the Prof. C.N.R. Rao Bengaluru INDIA NANO Science Award was presented to Prof. B.L.V. Prasad, Director of the Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS).

Highlighting Karnataka’s innovation strategy, Priyank Kharge, Minister for Home, IT, BT and e-Governance, said, “The next wave of innovation will be driven by the convergence of AI, nanotechnology, biotechnology and semiconductors. Karnataka is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation because of its strong research institutions, thriving startup ecosystem and progressive policy environment.”

The three-day conference features plenary lectures, technical sessions and an international exhibition covering nanotechnology applications in semiconductors, healthcare, agriculture, energy and the environment, alongside a dedicated Global Innovation Alliance track involving Germany, France and the Netherlands.

According to Dr. N. Manjula, Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, BT and Science & Technology, the conference aims to strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration and accelerate the commercialisation of breakthrough research. “Our objective is to build partnerships that translate scientific excellence into scalable technologies and sustainable economic growth,” she said.

Bengaluru INDIA NANO 2026 has 26 conference sessions, more than 80 speakers, over 800 delegates, participation from 10 countries, 50 exhibitors and an expected attendance of more than 4,000 participants.

Subramanya Joshi, Bengaluru.