Nara Lokesh Urges Google Cloud to Establish Data Center in Visakhapatnam

San Francisco (US): Andhra Pradesh's IT and Electronics Minister, Nara Lokesh, has urged Google Cloud to consider setting up a data center in Visakhapatnam, positioning the state as an emerging cloud infrastructure hub. During his visit to the Google campus in San Francisco, Lokesh met with Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian and other senior executives, including Bikas Koley, Rao Surapuneni, and Chandu Thota. He proposed a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) for establishing the data center in the port city.

Highlighting Andhra Pradesh's initiatives, Lokesh emphasized the state's focus on AI-based e-governance and smart city projects led by Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. He urged Google to support Andhra Pradesh’s digital transformation by providing AI tools, enterprise solutions, and smart city integration with Google Maps for urban planning and disaster management.

In addition, Lokesh requested Google's support in training local youth on digital education and AI skills to enhance employment opportunities. Google’s leadership responded positively, indicating they would consider the proposal after further discussions.