Has Gujarat Signed an MoU for a 250 MW Green AI-Ready Data Centre at Dholera SIR?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi/Gandhinagar, Feb 20 (NationPress) Gujarat has made a remarkable advance towards establishing itself as a prominent center for artificial intelligence (AI) and digital infrastructure by entering into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for a 250 MW green AI-ready data centre at the Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR).
The agreement was formalized in New Delhi during the India AI Impact Summit-2026, witnessed by the state’s Science and Technology Minister Arjun Modhwadia.
This MoU, signed between the Gujarat Government’s Department of Science and Technology and Larsen and Toubro VYOMA, entails an investment of Rs 25,000 crore for the initiative, expected to commence operations by 2028.
The objective of this project is to create a large-scale, environmentally friendly data center that can facilitate cloud computing, advanced analytics, and AI-powered services.
Officials have stated, "The launch of this data center will solidify Gujarat's status as a hub for AI infrastructure and digital governance."
They further noted that the project aligns with the state’s IT/ITeS Policy (2022–27) and contributes to the development of a sustainable digital ecosystem.
The planned Dholera SIR campus is anticipated to draw substantial investments, foster innovation-driven growth, and generate significant job opportunities in construction, commissioning, and long-term operations.
The broader ecosystem development linked to this project is also expected to create indirect employment and enhance Gujarat’s role in India’s digital transformation.
As per the MoU’s provisions, L and T VYOMA will conduct a comprehensive assessment regarding land suitability, infrastructure readiness, availability zones, and sustainability criteria.
The Gujarat government will support the initiative through its various departments, ensuring a structured implementation framework.
This initiative follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's articulation of India's 'MANAV' vision for artificial intelligence at the India AI Summit, emphasizing ethical frameworks, accountable governance, national data sovereignty, accessible technology, and legitimate systems.
The Prime Minister underscored that AI's true potential lies in augmenting human capabilities rather than merely enhancing machine intelligence.
In line with this vision, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to AI by allocating over Rs 850 crore in this year's budget for AI and digital governance projects.
Officials assert that the MoU with L and T VYOMA is a pivotal step toward developing world-class AI-ready digital infrastructure in Gujarat, positioning the state at the forefront of India’s AI landscape while encouraging sustainable and innovation-driven growth.