A Dubai-based consortium has been allotted 3.8 acres for Kerala’s first AI Innovation Hub, while 2.5 acres have been granted to the HiLITE Group for developing an IT park.
Kozhikode, Kerala: In a major boost to IT growth in the state, the LDF government has, for the first time, approved a 90-year land lease for two private companies inside the Cyberpark in Kozhikode.
A Dubai-based consortium has been allotted 3.8 acres for Kerala’s first AI Innovation Hub, while 2.5 acres have been granted to the HiLITE Group for developing an IT park.
The AI Innovation Hub, named ‘Kalinova Innovation Hub’, will feature a state-of-the-art technology campus focused on AI research and data infrastructure. The project includes a 10-lakh sq ft building with an initial investment of ₹200 crore, to be developed in phases. Although the agreement will be signed with Kalinova, a consortium of six companies from Germany, the US and other countries will jointly execute the project. The hub will include a data centre equipped with graphics processing units (GPUs). Officials expect the initiative to attract global tech entrepreneurs to Kerala.
Recruitment of IT professionals from Bengaluru for the innovation hub has already begun. The project has also finalised its architect and project management consultant, enabling rapid follow-up action. Signing the final agreement with Cyberpark is the only major step pending.
The HiLITE Group plans to build a 4-lakh sq ft IT park, offering space for multinational companies as well as startups. The facility will accommodate 5,000 employees at a time. As per the government order granting land, the group must complete the project within three years and ensure jobs for 5,000 people within one year of completion. The group has already signed an agreement with Cyberpark.
Another private investment proposal worth ₹150 crore from Kozhikode-based Good Earth is under government consideration and is expected to be approved soon.
Currently, both Cyberparks in Kozhikode have no available built-up space to host new companies. Around 80 small firms have expressed interest in starting operations in the city. Several companies operating in Kozhikode are unable to expand due to a lack of space. Officials believe private investments will help resolve this bottleneck.
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Disclaimer: Kindly avoid objectionable, derogatory, unlawful and lewd comments, while responding to reports. Such comments are punishable under cyber laws. Please keep away from personal attacks. The opinions expressed here are the personal opinions of readers and not that of Mathrubhumi.
Leave a Reply