In a significant push to accelerate India’s digital transformation, Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia held a high-level meeting with Cisco Chairman and CEO Chuck Robbins, calling on the global tech leader to expand its footprint in India by investing in advanced technology infrastructure, driving innovation, and deepening engagement in non-metro regions. The meeting marked a strategic dialogue between the Indian government and Cisco’s top leadership to align the company’s future investments with India’s ambitious digital growth vision.

Scindia encouraged Cisco to go beyond its traditional urban operations and actively contribute to digital empowerment in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. He emphasized the need for secure, scalable, and inclusive technology solutions tailored to India’s unique demographic and geographical challenges. From building resilient telecom systems to strengthening cybersecurity infrastructure and enabling high-speed broadband in rural areas, the minister highlighted several areas where Cisco could play a catalytic role.

The Indian government has set an ambitious target to provide internet access to more than 270,000 villages by 2030 under its National Broadband Mission. Initiatives around 5G and the upcoming 6G roadmap, as well as nationwide AI development programs, require robust partnerships with global technology leaders. Scindia noted that Cisco’s technological capabilities and global experience make it a natural ally in these transformative efforts.

Cisco has already made strong inroads in India’s digital economy. In 2024, the company inaugurated its first manufacturing facility in Chennai, aimed at serving both domestic and international markets. The plant is a part of Cisco’s broader goal to manufacture and assemble hardware within India, reinforcing the government’s “Make in India” initiative. Cisco also aims to impact 50 million lives in India by March 2025 through its digital empowerment programs, training efforts, and infrastructure projects.

With over 16,000 employees and significant R&D presence in India, Cisco views the country as a core hub for innovation. Its Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) program in India has supported multiple state-led digital transformation projects, including in healthcare, smart cities, and education. The company’s Networking Academy has trained more than 1.2 million Indian students in IT and networking skills, making it one of the largest talent-building initiatives by a global firm in India.

Chuck Robbins reaffirmed Cisco’s long-term commitment to India, describing the country as central to its growth strategy. He expressed optimism about the evolving business environment and pledged to explore deeper collaboration with Indian stakeholders to drive inclusive technological progress. Cisco leadership indicated plans to enhance local innovation capabilities, support India’s startup ecosystem, and expand manufacturing and service delivery networks across the country.

The government’s invitation to Cisco is not just about investment—it’s about co-creating a digital-first India where technology bridges socioeconomic divides and unlocks opportunity for all citizens. With strategic public-private partnerships, scalable infrastructure, and shared vision, the collaboration between India and Cisco may serve as a cornerstone for building a digitally empowered, globally competitive economy over the next decade.