Microsoft Announces $3 Billion Investment in India for Cloud, AI, and Skilling: Satya Nadella.

Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella has announced the company’s largest-ever investment in India, pledging $3 billion over the next two years to enhance cloud, AI infrastructure, and skilling initiatives in the country. The investment includes the establishment of new data centers, bolstering Microsoft's footprint across India.

Speaking at the Microsoft AI Tour in India, Nadella emphasized the strategic role of India in Microsoft’s global AI and cloud ecosystem. “We’ve always conceptualized and built Azure as the world’s computer. AI doesn’t operate in isolation; it requires the entire tech stack,” he said. Nadella highlighted Microsoft’s extensive global infrastructure, including 60-plus Azure regions and over 300 data centers worldwide, with ongoing regional expansions in Central India, South India, and West India.

The company also unveiled plans to train 10 million people in AI skills over the next five years as part of the second phase of its ADVANTA(I)GE India program. “India is rapidly becoming a leader in AI innovation, unlocking new opportunities across the country. The investments in infrastructure and skilling we are announcing today reaffirm our commitment to making India AI-first,” Nadella stated.

During his visit, Nadella met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss advancing AI innovation in India. In a LinkedIn post, Nadella expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister, writing, “Thank you, PM Narendra Modi ji, for your leadership. Excited to build on our commitment to making India AI-first and work together on our continued expansion in the country to ensure every Indian benefits from this AI platform shift.”

With this substantial investment, Microsoft aims to further support India’s digital transformation, strengthen its AI capabilities, and empower organizations and individuals nationwide.

HBL