Google has begun construction of its largest artificial intelligence (AI) data centre project in India, breaking ground on a major AI hub in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The project is being developed in partnership with AdaniConneX and Bharti Airtel’s Nxtra.
The initiative marks a key milestone in Google’s planned $15 billion investment in India between 2026 and 2030, aimed at building a large-scale AI and digital infrastructure ecosystem.
The foundation ceremony at Tarluvada was attended by Union IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and IT Minister Nara Lokesh, among others.
Also Read | Can AI save lives on Indian roads? New tech aims to cut accident toll
A gigawatt-scale AI ecosystem
The Vizag AI hub will be developed as a gigawatt-scale facility comprising multiple data centre campuses. It is designed to support high-performance computing, low-latency services and large-scale AI workloads for businesses and research institutions.
Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud said, "Today’s groundbreaking is a powerful realization of our shared vision with the Indian government, and an inflection point for the country’s AI-native future. Together we are laying the foundation for Viksit Bharat, and opening new doors for economic opportunity nationwide. The Google AI hub will serve as a catalyst for growth built on deep community partnerships.”
The project also includes expanded fibre connectivity under the America-India Connect initiative and a clean energy strategy aligned with India’s renewable energy goals.
Press Release/ Vizag Data Centre
Push for ‘Viksit Bharat’ and regional growth
Speaking at the event, Ashwini Vaishnaw said the AI hub reflects the government’s vision of positioning India as a global technology leader. “The India AI Hub and subsea cable infrastructure will become critical for the country’s digital journey,” he said.
Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Chandrababu Naidu said, “Andhra Pradesh is emerging as India’s premier investment destination, powered by speed, trust, and ease of doing business. Google’s AI hub in Visakhapatnam will be a cornerstone of our growing tech corridor, driving innovation, creating high-value opportunities for our youth, and strengthening our position in the global digital economy."
He further said, "Our vision goes beyond attracting investment – we want local talent, startups, and enterprises to become active partners in this technology-driven growth story. With the strong support of the Central Government and in line with the vision of a developed India, this partnership with Google reflects our commitment to combining cutting-edge innovation with inclusive growth, ensuring opportunities reach every community across Andhra Pradesh.”
Also Read | ChatGPT may now help you find cheap flights? Here's how you can do it
Jeet Adani of the Adani Group emphasised the importance of infrastructure in shaping India’s AI growth, while Bharti Airtel Vice Chairman Gopal Vittal said, "Through our strategic partnership with Google and Adani to build this landmark AI hub, we will help advance India’s digital ambitions.
With Visakhapatnam emerging as a new hub on the world’s AI map, we will ensure that India sets the pace for innovation, and sustainable growth, not just for our people, but for the whole world. Our full stack of best-in-class data centers, use of green power, pan-India ultra‑low latency fiber and a next‑gen cable landing station will enable large‑scale, world‑class AI infrastructure in Vizag."
Community and workforce focus
Beyond infrastructure, Google outlined a series of community-focused initiatives tied to the project. These include skilling programmes for local youth, support for women-led enterprises, digital literacy initiatives and technology integration in traditional sectors such as fisheries.
The company said the AI hub would contribute to long-term job creation, research capabilities and local economic development, while also supporting India’s broader ambitions of becoming a global AI leader.
