The meeting, which on Monday brought Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella together to discuss technology, innovation, and artificial intelligence (AI), reflects India’s growing significance on the global tech map and signals Microsoft’s further strengthening of its footprint in the country.
Excited to build on our commitment to making India AI-first, Nadella wrote as he, sharing a photo from the meeting from his handle on X (formerly Twitter), went on to praise PM Modi’s leadership and expressed enthusiasm about advancing AI in India.
Warmly responding to the message from Nadella, PM Modi described the meeting as “a delight”. He acknowledged Microsoft’s ambitious expansion and investment strategies in India and commended them on their focus on AI and innovation.
This is not the first time that the two leaders have found common ground on technology. In 2023, Nadella visited India and spoke about how much he appreciated the Digital India campaign of the Indian government. Then, he said it was “inspiring” and complimented the country on its commitment to sustainable, inclusive growth powered by digital transformation. Microsoft has remained a strong partner in India’s digital journey, contributing significantly to infrastructure and skill development.
Narendra Modi and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella Exchnage Words After Meeting
Microsoft’s Increasing Presence in India
The meeting with PM Modi was preceded by Nadella’s engagement with Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy only a few days back in Hyderabad. In Hyderabad, Nadella again expressed Microsoft’s intent to enhance the state’s efforts in education and skill development coupled with infrastructure development. Given its establishment decades ago, Microsoft has been an integral part of the tech infrastructure in Hyderabad.
The company now employs 10,000 people in Hyderabad and has also invested heavily in data infrastructure, including a 600 MW data center. Nadella praised Telangana’s vision to position Hyderabad among the world’s top 50 cities for economic growth by focusing on upskilling and building world-class infrastructure.
Microsoft’s increased investment in India shows the country is becoming a hub for technology worldwide. Nadella’s meetings with the national and state leadership indicate Microsoft is looking to embrace India’s rapidly changing digital world.
India and the AI Revolution
The focus on AI in the meeting is a reflection of India’s ambition to be at the forefront of the global AI shift. In this regard, India is looking to partner with tech giants like Microsoft to drive innovation while ensuring that technology remains inclusive and accessible to all citizens.
With these investments and policies, India is certainly holding the flag high for becoming a future leader in AI and digital transformation, a thought expressed by Nadella and followed with enthusiasm by PM Modi.
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