American tech giant Microsoft continues to expand its footprint in India with the recent purchase of a 16.4-acre land parcel in Pune’s Hinjewadi area for Rs 520 crore. This acquisition comes two years after the company bought a 25-acre plot in the city’s Pimpri-Chinchwad area for Rs 328 crore. In total, Microsoft has invested Rs 848 crore in Pune alone, signaling its growing interest in developing large-scale data centers in major Indian cities.
The tech company’s latest land purchase is part of a broader strategy to strengthen its data center operations across India. With data centers already established in Pune, Mumbai, and Chennai, Microsoft is solidifying its presence in key markets.
Microsoft currently operates in 10 Indian cities, including Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Chennai. It employs over 23,000 people in India, working across various functions such as sales, marketing, research, and development. These teams play a crucial role in supporting the company’s growth in one of the world’s largest tech markets.
In addition to its real estate investments, Microsoft has also made steps in workforce development in India. In early 2024, the company launched a major skilling initiative called ADVANTA(I)GE INDIA. This program aims to equip 2 million people with AI and digital skills by 2025, focusing on tier-2 and tier-3 cities as well as rural areas.
Microsoft's continued investments in both infrastructure and talent underscore its long-term commitment to India's digital growth, making the country a vital part of its global operations.
