KTR Wins Praise for Statesmanship, Welcomes OpenAI to Hyderabad as India’s AI Hub

Hyderabad, Aug 2025 : Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president and former Telangana minister K.T. Rama Rao (KTR) has earned nationwide acclaim for his statesmanlike gesture in welcoming OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and endorsing Hyderabad as the most suitable base for the AI giant in India. His approach, described as “non-partisan and state-first,” has been widely appreciated on social media, with many netizens lauding him for prioritizing Telangana’s interests above political rivalries.

The praise followed KTR’s response to Sam Altman’s announcement on social media about the inauguration of OpenAI’s first office in India. In his message, KTR described Hyderabad as an ideal choice for OpenAI, citing the city’s established ecosystem of innovation and its rich talent pool. He highlighted several state-led initiatives such as T-Hub, WE Hub, T-Works, the Telangana State Innovation Cell, and the Research and Innovation Circle of Hyderabad, all of which have positioned Hyderabad as a hub for startups and emerging technologies.

KTR also recalled Telangana’s long-standing efforts to build the state as India’s “AI Capital,” noting that the government had declared 2020 as the ‘Year of AI’ and launched numerous AI-driven initiatives to foster innovation. He pointed to Hyderabad’s growing global recognition as a technology powerhouse, already home to major players such as Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Meta, Apple, and Qualcomm.

The former minister’s remarks sparked a wave of positive reactions online. Social media users hailed his balanced and forward-looking outlook, especially given his position in the opposition. “Putting aside all differences, an opposition leader is supporting his state,” wrote X user Yogesh Sharma. Avantika Lohar added, “This is what we expect from ministers in other states too. Yogi Adityanath, take note.”

Several others echoed similar sentiments. Indian Trend X praised his vision, writing: “Hyderabad is indeed the right place for OpenAI to take root in India. Exciting times ahead for the AI ecosystem. This man has lost the election and is in opposition, but look at his message. Compare it to politicians in other states and national leaders.” Investor groups and professionals also expressed admiration, noting that such support for investments from the opposition was rare in Indian politics.

Nirangkush Das commented, “Opposition leaders advocating for investments for their state—I think this has never happened before.” Vikram Mohan said, “Playing for the city even while in opposition is true leadership. Whoever is in power, the interests of Telangana must always come first.” T. Srikanth added that KTR’s gesture set an example of “stable governance” that other states should follow.

Observers believe KTR’s endorsement has not only boosted Hyderabad’s profile globally but also reinforced public optimism about India’s role in the emerging AI revolution. His message, many argue, was more than political courtesy—it was a demonstration of mature leadership where the state’s progress takes precedence over party lines.

With Hyderabad steadily consolidating its position as India’s innovation and life sciences hub, KTR’s forward-looking gesture has further strengthened the city’s credentials as the country’s preferred destination for global tech giants like OpenAI.