New Jersey And Karnataka Formalize Sister State Agreement

India-West Staff Reporter

TRENTON, NJ — New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has signed a Sister State Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the State of Karnataka, India’s technology hub, in a move aimed at strengthening economic and technological ties between the two regions.

The agreement, facilitated by Choose New Jersey, the state’s nonprofit business attraction organization, was signed by Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of State Tahesha Way and Dr. Ekroop Caur, Secretary to the Government of Karnataka. Under the MOU, both states will support startups and foster collaboration in sectors including life sciences, technology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, electronics, and semiconductors.

Governor Murphy highlighted the alignment of the two regions’ technology and innovation sectors, emphasizing the potential for increased trade and collaboration. “New Jersey and Karnataka are both powerhouses of innovation,” Murphy said.

The MOU, effective for two years with an option to renew, establishes a framework for facilitating market expansion and “soft-landing” support for startups in both regions. It also encourages connections among industry, academia, and government to enhance technological cooperation.

Lieutenant Governor Way noted that the agreement builds on a Letter of Intent signed during her visit to India in December, while Dr. Caur said the partnership will expand opportunities for startups and emerging technologies in Karnataka.

The collaboration reinforces long-standing economic and cultural ties between New Jersey and India and reflects a growing focus on global partnerships to advance innovation and entrepreneurship, the governor’s office said.