DBT Bureau
Pune, 5 May 2026
Google officially broke ground on its landmark AI hub in Visakhapatnam (Vizag), Andhra Pradesh, marking the start of construction on the company’s largest investment in India’s digital future to date. The project reinforces Google’s commitment as a long-term partner in India’s economic and digital growth.
The ceremony, held at Tarluvada, was attended by Ashwini Vaishnaw, N. Chandrababu Naidu, Nara Lokesh, Bikash Koley (Google Cloud), Karan Adani, Jeet Adani, and Rakesh Mittal.
Ashwini Vaishnaw said the AI hub aligns with India’s vision to become a global technology leader, highlighting its strategic importance alongside subsea cable infrastructure in Visakhapatnam.
N. Chandrababu Naidu stated the project will strengthen Andhra Pradesh’s position as a tech investment hub, driving innovation, job creation, and global competitiveness.
Thomas Kurian said the hub marks an inflection point for India’s AI-driven future, enabling broader economic opportunities.
Jeet Adani emphasized that large-scale infrastructure and clean energy will define India’s AI growth, while Gopal Vittal highlighted the role of data centers, fiber networks, and cable landing infrastructure in supporting AI capabilities.
$15 Billion Investment Plan
The project is part of Google’s $15 billion investment plan (2026–2030) to build a comprehensive AI ecosystem in India. It includes a gigawatt-scale AI hub with three data center campuses, developed in partnership with AdaniConnex and Nxtra by Airtel.
The initiative also includes expanded fiber connectivity and a long-term clean energy strategy aligned with India’s 500 GW non-fossil fuel target by 2030.
Community and Workforce Initiatives
Google announced multiple local programs alongside the project:
- Watershed and water management initiatives with Sponge Collaborative
- Digital and livelihood programs for fishing communities with Sambhav Foundation
- Grants for schools and startups via ChangeX under the Udaan India Fund
- Women entrepreneurship support through Learning Links Foundation (NARI Shakti program)
- Workforce training programs targeting over 1,000 individuals and AI/cloud training for 1,200+ students with ICT Academy
Ecosystem Development
The groundbreaking coincided with the Bharat AI Shakti Conclave, organized with the Andhra Pradesh government. The platform aims to build a broader AI ecosystem by integrating local suppliers, SMEs, and infrastructure partners into the value chain.
The Visakhapatnam AI hub is positioned to deliver high-performance, low-latency infrastructure, supporting AI adoption, research, and digital services at scale across India.
