Karnataka has signed memoranda of understanding (MOUs) worth Rs 22,000 crore with global industry leaders Microsoft, Web Werks, Hitachi, and four other companies on Day 2 of the World Economic Forum 2024.

The partnerships are expected to propel the state into a new era of technological advancement, infrastructure development, and economic growth, said a statement.

M B Patil, minister for large and medium industries and infrastructure development, held discussions with Sony, HP, Nestle, Honeywell, Lulu Group, Inox Group, Takeda Pharma, Coinbase, Tillman Global, BL Agro, and many others.

The primary objective is to establish cutting-edge infrastructure, capitalising on the robust existing ecosystem and the highly attractive market dynamics in the region.

A MoU between the Karnataka government and Microsoft outlines a digital skilling initiative aimed at enhancing livelihood opportunities for under-served youth in India, job seekers, individuals with disabilities, small entrepreneurs, and those in regions with low workforce participation and remote areas.

Digital skilling program, named Microsoft RISE, will provide 70 hours of virtual instructor-led training through its non-profit partner AISECT.