Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella announced a significant investment of $3 billion in India over the next two years, aimed at strengthening the nation’s cloud and AI infrastructure. Speaking at the Microsoft AI Tour in Bengaluru, Nadella emphasized the company’s commitment to empowering India as a global AI leader.
Key Highlights of the Investment
- Expansion of AI and Cloud Infrastructure:
- Microsoft will establish new data centers and expand its existing cloud and AI infrastructure to support the country’s growing demand for advanced technology.
- With three operational data center regions and a fourth set to go live in 2026, the investment will further develop a scalable AI computing ecosystem, catering to India’s startups and research communities.
- AI Skilling Initiative:
- Microsoft aims to train and skill 10 million people by 2030, with a focus on AI competencies.
- This initiative is part of the second edition of the ADVANTA(I)GE India program, designed to enhance India’s workforce capabilities and long-term competitiveness.
- AI Adoption Across Sectors:
- Puneet Chandok, President of Microsoft India and South Asia, highlighted the transformative impact of AI across sectors such as education, commerce, finance, and agriculture.
- Chandok stated, “Microsoft has been a co-pilot in making AI a reality in India, empowering communities and industries with the compute needed to thrive in the AI era.”
Satya Nadella on India’s AI Potential
Nadella praised India’s leadership in AI innovation, stating:
“India is rapidly becoming a leader in AI innovation, unlocking new opportunities across the country. These investments reaffirm our commitment to making India AI-first and ensuring people and organizations benefit broadly.”
Meeting with Prime Minister Modi
Ahead of the announcement, Satya Nadella met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi to discuss the transformative potential of technology, innovation, and AI in India’s future.
Microsoft’s Legacy in India
Operating in India for over 30 years, Microsoft has played a pivotal role in fostering technology adoption and innovation. With this new investment, the company aims to deepen its collaboration with India and pave the way for a robust AI-driven economy.
Strategic Goals for India
- Accelerate AI innovation to bolster startups and research.
- Equip professionals with future-ready AI skills.
- Promote a sustainable, AI-enabled ecosystem that aligns with global best practices.
Conclusion
This $3 billion investment by Microsoft highlights its confidence in India’s potential to become a global AI powerhouse. By expanding infrastructure, fostering innovation, and prioritizing skills development, Microsoft is poised to support India’s journey toward AI-first transformation and sustainable growth.