Hubballi/Bengaluru: Global IT major Infosys Wednesday inaugurated its state-of-the-art centre for advanced AI, cybersecurity, and space technology in Hubballi, signalling a major expansion of its presence in North Karnataka and a response to earlier criticism over lack of job creation at its campus.The centre is part of Infosys Living Labs, a global network of over 12 innovation hubs that help clients accelerate innovation and adopt emerging technologies to future-proof their businesses. With this new facility, Infosys positions Hubballi as a strategic technology hub focused on cutting-edge services including artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity, engineering, SAP, and space technology. It will serve clients worldwide across industries such as manufacturing, financial services, retail, and healthcare.Industries minister MB Patil, who attended the inauguration alongside cabinet colleague and IT-BT minister Priyank Kharge, said: “We are thrilled to see Infosys expanding its presence in North Karnataka by surpassing 1,000 employees at its Hubballi Development Centre. This milestone not only creates vital employment opportunities but also strengthens industry-academia collaboration, paving the way for local talent to thrive in emerging domains like AI and cybersecurity. We encourage Infosys to explore possibilities of expanding its business footprint to other districts of North Karnataka as well, further boosting regional growth and inclusivity.”Priyank said the new facility reflects the growing importance of North Karnataka in the state’s digital economy. “It will drive economic activity, enhance collaboration between industry and academia, and position Hubballi as a key contributor to Karnataka’s digital future,” he said.Sunil Kumar Dhareshwar, executive vice-president at Infosys, said the initiative is aligned with the company’s vision for digital transformation. “The new centre is a significant step in the company’s mission to deliver AI-driven digital solutions that transform industries,” he said.Infosys said over 1,000 professionals are now working from its Hubballi campus, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing industry-ready talent and driving inclusive growth across Karnataka. It has also partnered with institutions such as IIIT Dharwad and KLE Technological University to foster regional innovation and research.Earlier this year, Infosys came under fire in the legislative assembly for failing to create employment in Hubballi. BJP MLA and deputy leader of the opposition Arvind Bellad had strongly criticised the company for allegedly not hiring a single person despite being allocated 58 acres of land in an industrial estate.
