Visakhapatnam, a major city in Andhra Pradesh, is poised to become the epicentre of India’s artificial intelligence ambitions. The state government is preparing to develop the country’s first AI-focused data city here. This coastal city is considered strategically important due to its international internet connectivity.
Under the plan, an integrated data ecosystem will be created within a 100-kilometre radius of the city. The government aims to develop facilities such as hyperscale data centres, server manufacturing, and advanced cooling systems. This could help India compete with powers like the US and China in the AI race.
Why was Visakhapatnam the top choice?
According to reports, Visakhapatnam is a port city, and its coastal location is extremely favourable. It provides direct connectivity to the submarine internet cable connecting India to Southeast Asia. The city is also being developed as a landing point for a submarine cable connecting Singapore. This will directly benefit AI companies by enabling high-speed, low-latency data transfer. With fewer concerns about data speeds, large-scale AI projects can be implemented here with ease.
A Data Ecosystem to Build Within 100 Kilometres
The state government plans to develop a robust and integrated data network within a 100-kilometre radius of Visakhapatnam. This will promote the construction of hyperscale data centres, server units, and advanced cooling systems. The government is also attracting private companies to establish manufacturing and technology infrastructure here. This will not only strengthen the IT sector but also create significant employment opportunities. This move could establish the city on the technology map.
Preparing to Compete with the US and China
The US and China are currently considered the frontrunners in the global AI race. Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Nara Lokesh has clearly stated that the question now is not whether to adopt AI, but how quickly India can progress. In a statement ahead of the AI India Impact Summit 2026 in Delhi, he indicated that Visakhapatnam will play a major role in this direction. The government aims for the city to become a central hub in India’s AI strategy and attract global investment.
Confidence of Major Companies and Global Summit
The state government has signed investment agreements for more than 700 projects to date. Google has pledged to establish its largest AI infrastructure hub outside the US. Major conglomerates like Reliance Industries, Brookfield, and Digital Realty are also investing in Andhra Pradesh.
The AI India Impact Summit 2026, which is taking place in New Delhi, could lay a strong foundation in this direction. CEOs and heads of state from around the world are participating. Consequently, this project in Visakhapatnam could be a significant step toward elevating India on the global AI map.
