Google’s $15 Billion Investment: largest investment in India to date.

Google is investing $15 billion over five years to establish a gigawatt-scale data center and its largest AI hub outside the U.S. in Vizag, India. This project will include cutting-edge AI infrastructure, undersea cables, and expanded fiber networks, benefiting India and Asian markets. Supported by Indian leaders, it aligns with the "Viksit Bharat" vision, driving AI innovation, reskilling IT professionals, and boosting the digital economy while transforming Vizag into a global tech hub.

In a landmark announcement, Google has unveiled plans to invest $15 billion over the next five years to establish a gigawatt-scale data center and its largest artificial intelligence (AI) hub outside the United States in Visakhapatnam, India. This ambitious project marks Google’s biggest overseas investment to date. The details of this mega initiative were announced by Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian during an event in New Delhi, where Indian leaders lauded the move as a significant step toward technological and economic growth.

A Vision Aligned with India’s Growth

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Google’s investment, emphasizing how it aligns with the government’s "Viksit Bharat" vision of a developed India. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Modi highlighted the transformative potential of the project, stating, "It will be a powerful force in democratising technology, ensuring AI for all, delivering cutting-edge tools to citizens, boosting our digital economy, and securing India’s place as a global technology leader."

Google CEO Sundar Pichai echoed these sentiments, stressing the initiative’s role in driving growth across India. "Through it, we will bring our industry-leading technology to enterprises and users in India, accelerating AI innovation and driving growth nationwide," Pichai remarked.

Cutting-Edge Infrastructure for AI and Connectivity

The project aims to establish a world-class AI and data infrastructure in Vizag, incorporating advanced technologies such as Tensor Processing Units (TPUs)—Google’s proprietary AI accelerators—and robust data storage for sovereign AI requirements. This hub will provide a comprehensive AI ecosystem, with plans to scale its capacity to multiple gigawatts in the future.

As part of the initiative, Google also plans to build an undersea cable landing station, expand fiber optic networks, and develop large-scale energy infrastructure. These components will not only serve India but also meet the compute demands of key Asian markets. For the first time, Google’s flagship consumer services, including Search, YouTube, and Gmail, will be powered from an Indian data hub.

Kurian emphasized that the hub will benefit Indian organizations and entrepreneurs by offering cutting-edge AI infrastructure and fostering innovation across sectors.

Government Support and Strategic Priorities

The announcement event, attended by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, and State IT Minister Nara Lokesh, underscored the strategic importance of the project.

Vaishnaw outlined three key priorities for the AI hub:

1. Massive Reskilling Initiatives: Training and reskilling IT professionals to meet the demands of AI-driven industries.

   
   

2. Enhanced Undersea Cable Connectivity: Establishing Vizag as a global connectivity hub through advanced undersea cable infrastructure.

   
   

3. AI Services for the Digital Economy: Developing AI-driven services as a new growth category for India’s digital economy.

   
   

The minister also urged Google to explore opportunities for undersea cable links to the Andaman Islands, positioning the region as a strategic hub for global internet traffic. Additionally, he suggested connecting Myanmar’s Sittwe port with India’s northeastern states to improve regional connectivity.

A Boost for Vizag’s Growth

The $15 billion investment will be funneled through Google’s Indian subsidiary, Raiden Infotech, which plans to develop three state-of-the-art campuses in Visakhapatnam. This is expected to turn Vizag into a global technology and connectivity hub, creating jobs, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth in the region.

A Step Toward India’s Digital Leadership

Google’s initiative represents a monumental leap for India’s AI and digital infrastructure. By combining cutting-edge technology with strategic investments, the project is set to accelerate AI innovation, enhance global connectivity, and solidify India’s position as a leader in the global digital economy.

With the support of government leaders and a clear focus on skilling, connectivity, and innovation, this investment is poised to shape India’s technological future while creating new opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs, and citizens alike.