Microsoft to invest $3 billion in AI and Cloud expansion in India

Microsoft has announced a $3 billion investment to enhance its cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure and skilling initiatives in India over the next two years. The investment includes establishing additional data centers, complementing the company’s existing three data center regions, with a fourth expected to go live by 2026.

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In tandem with infrastructure expansion, Microsoft is set to boost AI skilling in India, aiming to train 10 million individuals over the next five years under the second edition of its ADVANTA(I)GE India programme. This initiative builds on Microsoft’s Global Skills for Social Impact charter and involves collaborations with the government, non-profits, and corporate organizations.

The skilling programme has already exceeded its initial target, training 2.4 million people, of which 65% were women and 74% were from tier II and tier III cities. This highlights Microsoft’s efforts to promote inclusivity and address skill gaps in emerging regions.

The announcements were made during the Bengaluru leg of the Microsoft AI Tour, underscoring the company’s vision to make India an AI-first nation. The initiatives are expected to strengthen India’s role in global AI innovation, provide businesses with advanced tools, and equip individuals with skills critical for the future.

Microsoft’s plans signify a significant commitment to fostering AI-led growth and positioning India as a global AI hub.