Vizag: The Next Hub for Google Cloud's Data Revolution?

Andhra Pradesh's IT Minister, Nara Lokesh, proposed Vizag as a potential site for a Google Cloud data center during his US visit. Meetings with Google's executives covered initiatives to make Vizag a cloud hub, including Public-Private Partnerships and AI-driven government services.

In a strategic push to turn Vizag into a data hub, Andhra Pradesh's IT and Electronics Minister, Nara Lokesh, made a case for the city to host a Google Cloud data center. Speaking to Google's top executives during his visit to their San Francisco campus, Lokesh highlighted his state government's industry-friendly initiatives.

Lokesh met with Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, and other key executives to promote Visakhapatnam as the ideal location for the data center, suggesting a Public-Private Partnership model. His focus was on leveraging initiatives under Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu's leadership, which include AI-based e-governance and smart city projects.

Google, known for its prowess in cloud-computing and digital advertising, indicated they would consider the proposal after consultations with colleagues. Lokesh sought Google's collaboration on real-time urban management and AI-based educational programs, emphasizing the state's commitment to digital transformation.

(With inputs from agencies.)