Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated Zoho Corporation’s new Research and Development campus in Neduvathoor, Kottarakkara, located in Kollam district. This marks the state’s first dedicated R&D facility focused on AI, robotics, and deep-tech innovation.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by key dignitaries including Finance Minister K N Balagopal, highlighting the state’s commitment to fostering high-tech growth beyond urban centres. Starting with 250 employees, including 40 fresh graduates, the centre aims to tap into and nurture local rural talent, with plans for expansion already in motion.
As part of its skill development initiative, Zoho is collaborating with Kerala Startup Mission’s LEAP Centre, offering hands-on training in AI, machine learning, robotics, and core engineering. In a strategic move to boost automation capabilities, Zoho also announced the acquisition of Asimov Robotics, a Kochi-based startup known for its humanoid and service robots.
The residential R&D campus represents a larger vision to decentralize India’s tech ecosystem, bringing jobs and innovation to rural areas. CM Vijayan noted that Kerala’s IT exports are on track to cross ₹1 lakh crore, backed by robust infrastructure and a thriving startup ecosystem with over 6,400 ventures attracting ₹6,000 crore in investments.
To strengthen its innovation pipeline, Zoho has signed an MoU with KSUM to establish a deep-tech studio, while also forging partnerships with institutions like IIT Bombay, Boson Motors, and Zentron Labs.
This initiative reflects a transformative step toward making Kerala a national innovation hub, combining world-class technology with inclusive rural development.
