Karnataka's Home-Grown AI Computer Set for February Rollout
The Karnataka government has announced plans to launch its indigenous Keo PC in the first week of February. This affordable personal computer comes with integrated artificial intelligence capabilities. Officials have earmarked 2,000 units for initial distribution to government schools and hostels across the state.
Affordable Pricing with Advanced Features
Priced at just Rs 19,000, the Keo PC represents what officials call India's most affordable personal computer. The device features Buddh, an integrated AI chatbot that operates without internet connectivity. It also includes Shikshanpedia, a digital learning platform approved by the Department of State Educational Research and Training (DSERT).
Both applications are designed to function offline, though officials acknowledge some features require final adjustments before wider deployment. The computer's open-source software stack eliminates the need for proprietary platforms or recurring license fees, keeping costs significantly lower than conventional desktops and laptops.
Ambitious Educational Expansion Plans
Sharath Bachegowda, chairman of the Karnataka State Electronics Development Corporation (Keonics), revealed the government's long-term vision. "Our intent is to provide every child with access to computers and AI," he stated. "We are exploring all options to achieve this aim within the next three years."
The proposed expansion would eventually cover approximately 42,000 primary schools, 6,000 secondary education institutions, and nearly 2,000 hostels operated by various government departments. This represents a massive scaling of digital access across Karnataka's educational landscape.
Building a Local Computing Ecosystem
Officials emphasize that the initiative serves multiple strategic purposes. Beyond expanding digital access, it reinforces Karnataka's commitment to open-source development. By creating an indigenous AI-enabled computing ecosystem, the state aims to support local developers while promoting adoption across government and educational institutions.
The approach also seeks to reduce dependence on expensive imported hardware. Keonics is planning to manufacture at least 10,000 PCs annually, with assembly operations based at its Peenya warehouse. Components will be supplied by multiple partners to enable mass production while maintaining low costs.
Regulatory Considerations and Production Scaling
Keonics is seeking exemption under the 4G clause of the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurement (KTPP) Act. This would facilitate supply of Keo PCs to government educational institutions and hostels. While the corporation previously faced controversy over similar exemptions in other projects, officials express confidence about positive consideration this time.
They argue the AI-enabled Keo PC has no comparable competitor in the market at its price point. A final decision on the exemption remains pending. Meanwhile, the state government has approached the central government for financial assistance to expand the project.
Senior IT-BT department officials and Keonics' managing director recently met with Union ministry of IT officials in New Delhi. They discussed potential support mechanisms. As an alternative approach, Karnataka has sought permission for Keonics to offer Keo PCs to other states, targeting government-run schools and hostels nationwide.
Initial Deployment Strategy
The Keo PC, which launched in November last year, will initially reach students in Classes 8 to 10 across four revenue divisions. These include Belagavi, Kalaburagi, Bengaluru and Mysuru. Each unit will come equipped with a wired keyboard, wired mouse, and a locally manufactured display.
A meeting has been scheduled with IT-BT minister Priyank Kharge to discuss production scaling. The initiative represents a significant step toward democratizing access to computing technology and artificial intelligence tools in educational settings across Karnataka.
