IT/ITES

Kerala is rapidly advancing as a knowledge-powered digital society, fostering innovation and technological growth across the state. With a strategic Hub and Spoke model of Technology Parks, Kerala has successfully extended digital infrastructure to support IT and innovation sectors statewide, solidifying its position as a vital tech ecosystem in India. The state ranks 8th nationally in software exports, as recorded by the Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), showcasing its competitive edge and commitment to technology-driven economic growth.

Kerala’s skilled workforce is globally recognized for its quality and adaptability, supporting a range of high-tech industries and attracting international acknowledgment. A prime example of Kerala’s infrastructure achievements is the Kerala Fibre Optic Network (KFON) project, awarded the "Infrastructure Initiative of the Year in India" in 2024 for its transformative impact on digital connectivity and inclusivity across the state.

In the realm of advanced technologies, Kerala continues to make strides in 2024 also, with the development of "Kairali," an AI chip created by Digital University Kerala, marking a significant milestone in India’s semiconductor and AI sectors. The state has also established Centers of Excellence in emerging fields such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain, Graphene, and other 2D materials, positioning Kerala as a leader in research and innovation across multiple domains of the digital economy.

Electronics System Design and Manufacturing

Kerala is a prominent hub for the Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) sector, with over 60 major companies driving advancements in this field. At the forefront is Keltron, Kerala’s pioneering public sector undertaking, which specializes in communication, defense, and home electronics manufacturing. This homegrown company exemplifies Kerala’s commitment to building a robust ESDM ecosystem through locally developed expertise and technology.

The ESDM sector in Kerala spans several key verticals, including automotive electronics, industrial electronics, consumer electronics, medical electronics, computer hardware, telecom networking communications, and e-mobility products. These diverse areas reflect the state's focus on catering to various high-demand industries with cutting-edge products and solutions.

The cities of Ernakulam, Trivandrum, and Palakkad serve as the primary hubs for ESDM companies, offering strategic locations and infrastructure that support the growth of this critical industry. With these resources and a skilled workforce, Kerala continues to strengthen its role in India’s ESDM landscape, contributing to both regional and national technological advancement.

Global Capability Centers

Kerala is quickly gaining recognition as an emerging hub for Global Capability Centers (GCCs), fueled by its highly skilled and versatile talent pool. The state is at the forefront of key technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and cybersecurity, which are essential for the global digital economy and position Kerala as a prime destination for advanced technology-driven operations.

Kerala’s strategic location offers proximity to essential vendors, a thriving startup ecosystem, and a strong support network, making it an attractive choice for companies looking to establish or expand GCCs. Among the various tiered cities, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram are particularly prominent, attracting significant interest from investors and corporations as focal areas for GCC expansion.

Strategic location with proximity to vendors, vibrant start-up ecosystem, and more.

To further support this growth, a new GCC policy is in development, which will enhance Kerala’s infrastructure and incentives for global enterprises, solidifying its role as a dynamic and competitive GCC destination in India.