Microsoft’s CEO, Satya Nadella, announced on Tuesday a USD 3 billion investment to strengthen the company’s cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities in India. This move marks the tech giant’s largest expansion in the country and reflects its growing focus on India as a key player in AI innovation.
Strategic Investment in Cloud and AI Infrastructure
During a conference attended by startup founders and technology executives, Nadella highlighted Microsoft’s excitement about the rapid adoption of AI in India. The investment, which will unfold over the next two years, will include the establishment of new data centres and a major focus on AI skill development. Currently, Microsoft operates three data centre regions in India, with plans to launch a fourth by 2026.
This investment is poised to make India a leading hub for AI and cloud computing, creating significant opportunities nationwide. Nadella pointed out that Microsoft’s initiative will help people and organizations across the country take advantage of AI’s transformative potential.
AI Skills Development in India
Microsoft has committed to training 10 million people in AI skills by 2030. This initiative, a part of the ADVANTA(I)GE India program, is designed to equip individuals in both urban and rural areas with essential AI skills. In February 2024, Nadella had already announced the goal of skilling 2 million people by 2025.
Through the ADVANTA(I)GE India program, Microsoft aims to provide AI education to people from all walks of life, including those in smaller cities and rural regions. The program will collaborate with various government bodies, non-profit organizations, and corporate partners to ensure broad participation.
Microsoft’s Growing Presence in India
Microsoft has significantly expanded its presence in India, where it offers cloud services through its Azure platform. Nadella discussed Microsoft’s collaborations with Jio, which has helped enhance capacities in regions such as Central India, South India, West India, and South Central India.
Microsoft is also planning to roll out a global initiative to skilling women developers. The “Code; Without Barriers” program will target the training and certification of 75,000 women developers in India by 2024.
Meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi
On his visit to New Delhi, Nadella met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who shared his vision for AI and India’s aspirations in the tech and entrepreneurship sectors. Nadella expressed his excitement about Microsoft’s role in supporting India’s AI-first strategy.
Prime Minister Modi acknowledged Microsoft’s expansion plans, with both leaders discussing how AI could empower the country’s workforce and create new technological opportunities.
Future Directions for Microsoft in India
Microsoft plans to spend approximately USD 80 billion globally on its AI and cloud infrastructure in 2024. Nadella emphasized India’s role in this effort, particularly in nurturing its developer community and fostering innovative solutions.
As part of the broader mission to build world-class AI infrastructure, Microsoft aims to ensure that India’s human capital can leverage technological advancements to drive GDP growth and efficiency. Nadella concluded by reiterating Microsoft’s long-term commitment to empowering India’s population through AI training and skill development.
