Karnataka eyes Anthropic tie-up to expand AI across public service

Karnataka is exploring a partnership with artificial intelligence company Anthropic to bring AI into public administration, education, scientific research and workforce development.

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar met a senior Anthropic delegation at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru on Thursday. The meeting included Anthropic’s Head of International Policy Michael Sellitto, Karnataka Minister for Electronics, IT/BT and Home Priyank Kharge, Finance Adviser L.K. Atheeq and other senior officials.

Following the meeting, Shivakumar said the discussions focused on AI’s transformative potential and opportunities to strengthen Karnataka’s innovation ecosystem.

“We had a meaningful discussion on the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and explored opportunities to collaborate in areas such as citizen-centric governance, skilling, scientific research, startup enablement and our AI University initiative,” he said in a post on X.

AI for safer and smarter governance

The state sought Anthropic’s expertise in using AI to detect and reduce fraud in government systems. Both sides also discussed deploying the technology to improve public services and strengthen cybersecurity.

Another key proposal involved using AI to enhance the security, confidentiality and efficiency of question paper preparation for examinations conducted by government agencies and educational institutions.

The discussions also covered enterprise AI adoption, with an emphasis on responsible deployment, data privacy and data sovereignty being critical considerations when handling sensitive government and citizen information.

Skilling and startup support

Karnataka outlined its plan to build an AI ecosystem around the proposed AI University, large-scale skilling programmes and support for deep-tech innovation.

The two sides explored AI certification programmes, including a potential Claude certification under the state’s NIPUNA initiative. Claude is Anthropic’s family of generative AI models.

Healthcare and scientific research were also identified as possible areas of collaboration. Karnataka further discussed ways to support its startup ecosystem, particularly ventures developing deep-tech and AI-led solutions.

Shivakumar said the government would work to ensure that AI’s benefits remain inclusive, responsible and accessible.

“Our Government will continue to support collaborative initiatives that strengthen Karnataka’s innovation ecosystem, creating better public services and greater opportunities for our people,” he said.

While no formal agreement or implementation timeline has been announced, Karnataka and Anthropic have agreed to continue discussions on AI-led governance, talent development, research and innovation.