During his visit to India, Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella announced a groundbreaking $3 billion investment aimed at enhancing the country’s cloud and AI infrastructure and skilling initiatives. This strategic investment, which includes the establishment of new data centers, aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India (Viksit Bharat) by 2047. Over the next five years, Microsoft plans to train 10 million individuals in AI skills as part of the second edition of its ADVANTA(I)GE India program.

Nadella emphasized India’s pivotal role in AI innovation, stating, “India is rapidly becoming a leader in AI innovation, unlocking new opportunities across the country. Our investments reaffirm our commitment to making India AI-first, ensuring people and organizations benefit broadly.”

Puneet Chandok, President of Microsoft India and South Asia, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the transformative impact of AI across sectors, from education to agriculture.

Expanding AI Infrastructure and Training

Microsoft plans to expand its cloud and AI infrastructure across its existing data centers, with a fourth center set to go live by 2026. This move aims to create a scalable AI ecosystem to support India’s growing AI startups and research community.

The ADVANTA(I)GE India program, which trained 2.4 million individuals in its first phase, will now aim to equip 10 million Indians with essential AI skills by 2030. This initiative focuses on inclusivity, with significant participation from women and individuals from tier II and III cities.

AI Ecosystem and Startup Collaboration

Microsoft Research India launched an AI Innovation Network to foster collaborations with startups and digital-native companies. Initiatives include partnerships with organizations like Physics Wallah to create personalized educational tools using AI.

The company also signed an MoU with SaaSBoomi, a premier B2B startup community, to accelerate India’s AI and SaaS ecosystem. Over the next five years, this partnership aims to impact over 5,000 startups, train 150,000 employees, and create 200,000 new jobs.

Sustainable AI Development

Reinforcing its commitment to sustainability, Microsoft announced zero-water cooling technology for its new data centers in India. The company has also secured renewable energy contracts and is directing $15 million towards environmental justice initiatives, focusing on women’s livelihoods, rural electrification, and climate change mitigation.

India’s AI-Driven Future

Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State for Skill Development, lauded Microsoft’s efforts, stating, “Collaborations like these are pivotal in building an AI-ready India, driving innovation, creating jobs, and bridging the digital divide.”

This multi-faceted investment underscores Microsoft’s vision of positioning India as a global AI leader while advancing responsible AI practices and fostering inclusive growth across the country.