This MLA Built an AI PC for Every School in Karnataka Under ₹20,000 | Ft. Sharath Kumar Bache Gowda

2026-04-24 · Source: AIM Network · Field: Government & Public Sector — Public Policy & Governance, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Civic Technology & Smart Cities · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, extended

Summary

Sharath Kumar Bache Gowda, Chairman of Kionics and Hoskot ML, discusses his journey from engineering to politics, his views on AI, and Kionics' initiatives. He highlights his non-planned entry into politics, driven by CSR work in water purification, and his family's political background. Bache Gowda sees AI as a disruption and an opportunity, predicting it will create more jobs than it displaces, similar to the internet boom. Kionics, established in 1976, is credited with nucleating Bangalore's IT boom through Electronic City. The organization recently launched the Kio, an affordable AI PC priced at ₹19,999, utilizing open-source RISC-V architecture and Ubuntu, with 2,000 units slated for deployment in schools by late April. Kionics is also updating its outdated training curriculum from 2016 to include AI courses and is focusing on expanding IT infrastructure and training to Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities to address regional disparities in technology.

Key takeaway

For Directors of AI/ML and policy makers considering technology adoption in developing regions, Kionics' strategy of deploying affordable, open-source AI PCs with comprehensive training offers a blueprint for equitable tech access. You should prioritize open architectures like RISC-V and invest in physical training infrastructure to bridge the digital divide and foster local talent, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, to ensure broad-based technological advancement.

Key insights

AI is a powerful tool creating more jobs than it displaces, necessitating accessible technology and updated training.

Principles

• Open-source architecture fosters accessibility.
• Infrastructure development drives regional growth.
• Physical learning spaces remain vital for equitable access.

Method

Kionics deploys affordable, open-source RISC-V AI PCs with Ubuntu and partners with NGOs like Shikshana for trainer-of-trainers programs to ensure effective adoption in schools.

In practice

• Utilize RISC-V for cost-effective AI hardware.
• Partner with NGOs for tech training deployment.
• Update curricula to include AI and e-governance.

Topics

• Kionics
• AI PC
• RISC-V Architecture
• Open-Source Software
• Karnataka IT Growth

Best for: Policy Maker, Director of AI/ML, Tech Journalist

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by AIM Network.