Data Centres To Drive India’s Next Growth Phase: Jitendra Singh

New Delhi, May 23 (KNN) India is entering a critical phase where data centres, artificial intelligence (AI), quantum technologies and next-generation digital infrastructure will play a defining role in shaping the global economic landscape, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh said.

Addressing a special session on ‘Future-Proofing India’s Data Centres: Resilient Supply Chains and Opportunities’ at the annual leadership summit organised by the American Chamber of Commerce in India, the minister said the world is increasingly looking towards India for technology partnerships, reflecting the country's growing stature in emerging technologies.

Data Centres Positioned as Strategic Growth Engine 

Dr. Singh said India is well placed to emerge as a trusted global data centre hub, supported by policy reforms, rising private investment, clean energy integration and a rapidly evolving innovation ecosystem. 

He noted that the data economy is not just a technological shift but a strategic lever that will shape investment flows, jobs, energy systems and geopolitical competitiveness.

He added that India’s data centre capacity is expected to grow from 1.5 GW to around 6.5 GW by 2030, generating nearly one lakh engineering jobs across AI systems, cooling technologies, smart grids, renewable integration and digital infrastructure. 

He highlighted the role of AI, 6G, semiconductors and digital public infrastructure in attracting global investment and collaboration.

Policy Push for Quantum Tech, Semiconductors and Digital Infrastructure 

Describing data centres as the ‘next oil economy,’ the minister stressed the need for an integrated national approach involving government, industry, telecom players, infrastructure providers, energy stakeholders and research institutions. 

He also pointed to progress under the National Quantum Mission, noting that over half the targets have been achieved ahead of schedule, including rapid expansion of secure quantum communication networks.

He further cited reforms such as the National Research Foundation, the India Semiconductor Mission, incentives for global cloud providers and the opening of sectors like space and nuclear energy to private participation. 

He said India’s future growth in data infrastructure will depend on resilient supply chains, sustainable energy systems, advanced connectivity and coordinated policy support, positioning the country as a leading digital infrastructure destination.

(KNN Bureau)