Microsoft To Invest $3 Billion In AI And Cloud Expansion In India

According to Cointelegraph, American technology leader Microsoft has announced a significant investment of $3 billion to enhance its cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure in India. This initiative includes the establishment of new data centers and the provision of AI training to half a million individuals. On January 8, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella revealed the company's ambitious plan to invest in India over the next two years, marking it as the largest expansion Microsoft has undertaken in the country. The announcement was made during the Microsoft AI Tour in Bengaluru. As part of this initiative, Microsoft has partnered with INDIAai, an AI-focused project by the Indian government, to train 500,000 individuals in AI by 2026. The broader goal is to equip 10 million people in India with cloud and AI skills by 2030. The AI training program will target a diverse group, including students, educators, developers, government officials, and women entrepreneurs. This effort is part of Microsoft's strategy to expand Azure's capabilities in India, as highlighted by Nadella. Following discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Nadella expressed confidence in India's entrepreneurial spirit, which he believes will support the development of a next-generation AI ecosystem. In addition to training, Microsoft has entered into strategic partnerships with several major Indian industries, including RailTel, Apollo Hospitals, Bajaj Finserv, Mahindra Group, and upGrad. These collaborations aim to leverage cloud and AI innovations to benefit their teams and customers. Puneet Chandok, President of Microsoft India and South Asia, noted that the company has already trained 2.4 million Indians since 2024 and is working on establishing 'AI Catalysts' to foster AI innovation in smaller cities and communities. Furthermore, Microsoft plans to extend the advantages of its Founders Hub program, which offers Azure credits, business resources, and mentorship, to up to 1,000 AI startups in India. This initiative underscores Microsoft's commitment to nurturing the AI startup ecosystem in the country.