CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The inaugural Hyderabad Economic Forum (HEF) 2026, held under the theme “One City. One Vision. Infinite Possibilities”, hosted by SAS Infra in association with knowledge partner Bower School of Entrepreneurship, brought together over 500 business leaders, policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, academics and industry experts today at SAS iTower, Khajaguda, to shape Hyderabad’s next growth story and strengthen its position among the world’s leading economic and innovation hubs.
As one of India’s fastest-growing economic centres, Hyderabad has emerged as a global destination for technology, enterprise, innovation, investment and world-class infrastructure. The Forum served as a platform for collaboration, strategic dialogue and actionable ideas aimed at driving sustainable and inclusive growth.
The event commenced with a keynote address by Chief Guest Sri Sridhar Babu, Hon’ble Minister for IT, Industries and Legislative Affairs, Government of Telangana, on “Hyderabad: Becoming India’s Innovation Capital.” In his address he said, “The 20th century was defined by competition for resources, industries and capital; the 21st century belongs to nations that can attract ideas, talent and innovation. India’s remarkable rise from 81st to 39th in the Global Innovation Index over the past decade reflects this global shift and underscores the country’s growing innovation strength. Telangana is determined to lead this transformation from the front.”
“Today, India is the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, and Telangana has emerged as one of its most dynamic innovation hubs, earning recognition as a ‘Top Performer’ in the Centre’s States’ Startup Rankings. Through pioneering initiatives such as AIKAM, the Telangana Data Exchange (TGDeX), a Rs. 1,000-crore Fund of Funds for Startups, the proposed AI University, Skill University, and 100 Advanced ITIs, we are creating an ecosystem where innovation is not only encouraged but enabled,“ Sri Sridhar Babu added.
He further emphasised that, “Our commitment extends beyond startups and enterprises. Through AI-enabled classrooms and the AI Literacy Mission, we are equipping nearly 20 lakh government school students with the skills required for the future economy. We are building a state where innovation is embedded in education, governance and entrepreneurship.“
He concluded by saying, my message to innovators, entrepreneurs and creators is simple, Come to Telangana with an idea. We may not guarantee that every idea will succeed, but we can assure you that every sincere idea will find support, opportunity and the confidence to grow.
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