Maharashtra Set to Emerge as Data Centre Hub: CM Fadnavis
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Maharashtra is set to become a significant hub for data centres, with CM Fadnavis announcing extensive investments aimed at job creation and sustainable development. The state plans to lead in AI and innovation while enhancing its infrastructure through international collaborations.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra aims to be the data centre capital.
- Record-breaking MoUs worth Rs 15.75 lakh crore signed.
- 15.98 lakh job opportunities anticipated.
- 65% of pledged investments are being implemented.
- Focus on sustainable development and innovation.
Mumbai, Jan 23 (NationPress) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Thursday that the state is on track to become the data centre capital of the future. Referring to data as the "new oil," he indicated that the state is expected to see swift growth in this sector.
"Maharashtra took centre stage at the Indian Pavilion of the World Economic Forum in Davos. The state secured record-breaking MoUs worth Rs 15.75 lakh crore with international entities, leading to the creation of 15.98 lakh job opportunities within the state. I express my gratitude to the people of Maharashtra for allowing me to represent the state at Davos. A total of 61 MoUs were formalized in Davos, comprising 54 for investment and 7 for strategic collaboration," he stated during a virtual press conference from Davos. He praised Industry Minister Uday Samant and his entire team for their relentless efforts in achieving these remarkable investment milestones.
He asserted that Maharashtra has become a favored destination for both international and domestic investors.
Fadnavis noted that 65 percent of the investments pledged to Maharashtra are being effectively implemented. The MoUs signed last year under then-CM Eknath Shinde achieved an impressive 95 percent execution rate.
He underscored Maharashtra's leadership in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and innovation. The state plans to develop an Innovation City in Navi Mumbai and attract investments in the data centre arena, which he identifies as the “new oil” of this era.
Further, he reasserted Maharashtra's dedication to sustainable development, emphasizing solar energy, green initiatives, and clean energy projects.
He mentioned his participation in the ‘Country Dialogue’ session alongside the Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. They collectively showcased their states’ strengths, development strategies, and investment prospects while advocating for India as a premier global investment hub.
"I am immensely proud to witness how the India Pavilion at Davos embodies the 'One India' spirit! India is advancing rapidly and aspires to become a $5 trillion economy. It is essential for all states to progress in unison. 98 percent of the MoUs signed will attract FDIs to Maharashtra, propelling the growth of the entire nation," the Chief Minister stated.
Additionally, he highlighted Maharashtra's water conservation efforts, including the Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan, stressing its importance for a sustainable future.
In related news, Fadnavis revealed that Japan’s Sumitomo Group has pledged Rs 43,000 crore to enhance Maharashtra’s infrastructure sector. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is set to advance Mumbai’s infrastructure development through collaboration with Japanese partners.
