India’s artificial intelligence ecosystem is set for a dramatic push forward after Microsoft chief Satya Nadella announced a USD 17.5 billion commitment to expand the country’s AI infrastructure, skill development, and sovereign capabilities. This marks Microsoft’s biggest-ever investment in Asia.

Nadella shared the announcement on X shortly after a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his Delhi residence.
He wrote that the conversation focused on India’s immense AI potential and reaffirmed Microsoft’s intent to support the nation’s long-term technological roadmap.

Prime Minister Modi responded with enthusiasm, calling the discussion “productive” and highlighting that global confidence in India’s AI journey is at an all-time high. He added that India’s youth will play a defining role in turning this AI momentum into real-world solutions for a sustainable future.

Nadella’s Multi-City India Visit Focuses on AI, Cloud and Digital Growth

The Microsoft CEO is on a four-day tour of India, covering Delhi, Bengaluru and Mumbai, strengthening the company’s AI and cloud footprint in one of its most important markets.

During his earlier visit in January, Nadella had announced a USD 3 billion investment dedicated to expanding cloud and AI infrastructure and training 10 million Indians in AI skills by 2030 — with a strong push toward smaller cities and women-led participation.

Microsoft also plans to roll out Microsoft 365 Copilot with India-based data processing by the end of 2025, a major step toward strengthening digital sovereignty for sensitive sectors such as government, banking, healthcare and insurance.

Nadella’s ongoing engagements reinforce India’s rise as a major global AI hub, rich in talent, innovation and technological scale. Microsoft aims to deepen India–US tech ties through large-scale skilling, digital trade expansion and AI capacity-building.

PM Modi Meets Other Global Tech Leaders

Prime Minister Modi also held discussions with several global tech executives during the day.

Cognizant Leadership Meets PM Modi

Cognizant CEO Ravi Kumar S and senior leaders spoke with the PM about accelerating AI adoption and modernising education and skilling systems. They reaffirmed the company’s commitment to expanding into emerging Indian cities, boosting equitable employment and strengthening India’s tech talent pipeline.

Intel Steps Up Semiconductor Push in India

Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan met PM Modi as part of the company’s expanded engagement with India’s semiconductor landscape.

Intel recently entered into an MoU with the Tata Group, paving the way for manufacturing, assembly and advanced packaging of Intel-designed chips at Tata Electronics’ upcoming fabrication and OSAT facilities. The collaboration will localise large parts of Intel’s supply chain within India — a major step toward India’s ambition to become a global semiconductor powerhouse.

Intel is also exploring rapid deployment of AI-enabled PCs for India’s growing market as it positions the country as a cornerstone of its future strategy.