IBM to expand in Bangalore, buys land

BANGALORE: Contrary to industry concerns about IT companies sidestepping Bangalore for future expansion, global IT companies are continuing to show interest in expanding their facilities in the country's IT capital.

According to MK Shankarlinge Gowda, the Information Secretary of Karnataka, IT major IBM Corporation has acquired land near the Ring Road close to the Hebbal flyover here.

Gowda said that the company's chairman and CEO, Samuel J Palmisano who met state officials here this week, was keen on expanding his company's operations in Bangalore.

“They have purchased land for the facility from a private party,” said Gowda. However, he did not reveal the particulars of the land allotment.

IBM declined to comment on the issue, but said it was keen on growing in India.

IBM's decision comes close on the heels of Cisco's announcement to invest $800 million in Bangalore.

“They (Cisco) have acquired 14 acres for expansion from a private party and they will be investing $800 million into their R&D facility in the first phase,” said Gowda.

Market speculation has it that IBM plans to add around 13,000 employees for its global services delivery in India, after cutting down jobs in Europe and the US.