Mysore/Mysuru: South India continues to play a pivotal role in India’s economic transformation, contributing significantly to manufacturing, technology, exports and innovation, according to a report released by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) at CII’s South India Annual Convention 2026 held in Kochi.

The report, ‘Rising South: Next Wave of Growth’, was released at the CII South India Annual Convention 2026 and highlights the growing economic strength of the southern region comprising Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and Telangana.

According to the report, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka together contribute more than half of the region’s combined Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), driven by Chennai’s industrial base and Bengaluru’s global technology ecosystem.

Andhra Pradesh is witnessing infrastructure-led growth supported by port development, renewable energy initiatives and new city projects.

Telangana has positioned Hyderabad as a national hub for life sciences, biotechnology and advanced digital technologies, while Kerala’s economy is driven largely by services such as healthcare and tourism. Puducherry remains closely linked to Tamil Nadu’s industrial and manufacturing ecosystem.

The report highlights Southern India’s strong manufacturing base, with Tamil Nadu emerging as a leader in automobiles, electronics and textiles, while Karnataka has built strengths in aerospace, precision engineering and electronics.

Telangana’s Genome Valley has established the state as a major pharmaceutical and life sciences hub, contributing to India’s export sector.