Zoho Corporation, the Chennai-based SaaS powerhouse led by Sridhar Vembu, has taken a significant leap in its research and development journey by inaugurating a new R&D campus in Kottarakkara, Kerala, and acquiring Asimov Robotics, a local robotics startup. These strategic moves reflect Zoho’s growing focus on artificial intelligence, robotics, and deep-tech innovation, reinforcing India’s ambition to become self-reliant in cutting-edge technologies.
New R&D Campus in Kerala: A Hub for AI and Robotics Innovation
The newly opened Zoho campus in Kottarakkara currently accommodates 250 employees and is envisioned as a centre of excellence for AI and robotics research. The launch ceremony was graced by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Finance Minister K. N. Balagopal, highlighting the state government’s support for nurturing technology-led growth in rural areas.
Shailesh Davey, Co-founder and CEO of Zoho Corp, emphasized the campus’s role in fostering collaboration with deep-tech startups and research institutions:
“Our Kottarakkara office will be dedicated to enhancing our R&D projects in various fields starting with AI and Robotics. We aim to develop these capabilities in India and make the country self-reliant in critical technology.”
Acquisition of Asimov Robotics: Zoho’s Entry into Robotics
Zoho’s acquisition of Asimov Robotics, founded in 2012 and based in Kerala, marks its formal foray into the robotics sector. Asimov Robotics specialises in creating robotic solutions that address hazardous, inefficient, and repetitive industrial tasks. The startup’s team will continue operating from the Kottarakkara facility, now under Zoho’s engineering leadership.
This acquisition not only enhances Zoho’s product portfolio but also strengthens Kerala’s local innovation ecosystem by promoting intellectual property development and product research in semi-urban and rural settings.
Partnership with Kerala Startup Mission to Boost Deep Tech
In addition to the campus and acquisition, Zoho has partnered with the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) to launch a Deep Tech Product Studio. This initiative aims to catalyse high-impact research collaborations between startups, academia, and industry players, accelerating innovation in emerging technologies.
KSUM CEO Anoop P. Ambika praised Zoho’s commitment:
“Zoho’s involvement validates Kerala’s growing appeal as a destination for deep-tech R&D. Their collaborations with several local startups are building a vibrant R&D ecosystem in Kottarakkara.”
Building Talent Locally: Zoho’s Internship and Training Programs
Since opening the Kottarakkara office in 2024, Zoho has onboarded 40 employees through a rigorous nine-month internship and training program. Interns undergo skill development in programming languages like C, C++, and Python, followed by project work, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled talent from the region.
Finance Minister K. N. Balagopal highlighted this as a model for inclusive growth:
“The Zoho campus at Kottarakkara stands as a pilot model for transforming rural innovation ecosystems by combining employers, skilling, academia, infrastructure, and capital.”
Expanding Deep Tech Collaborations Across Kerala and Beyond
Zoho’s new campus also serves as a base for multiple R&D partnerships with startups and institutions such as Boson Motors, Vipus Advanced Materials, vTitan, Zentron Labs, Verdant Telemetry & Antenna Systems, Netrasemi, Genrobotics, Energy 24by7, and IIT Bombay. These alliances focus on solving targeted technological challenges and fostering applied research in India’s deep-tech landscape.
A Vision for India’s Tech Self-Reliance
Sridhar Vembu, Zoho’s Co-founder and Chief Scientist, along with other company leaders, attended the inauguration alongside dignitaries like former ISRO chairman Dr. S. Somanath and MP Kodikunnil Suresh. Their presence underscores the national importance of this initiative.
Zoho’s Kerala expansion and robotics acquisition are pivotal steps toward building a robust, homegrown technology ecosystem that can compete globally while empowering local talent and innovation hubs.
In summary, Zoho’s new Kottarakkara campus and acquisition of Asimov Robotics signal a bold commitment to deep tech and rural innovation in India. With strong government backing and strategic partnerships, Zoho is setting a benchmark for technology-driven growth that is inclusive, sustainable, and future-ready.