Satya Nadella Backs Maharashtra’s AI Push; Brookfield to Build Record-Sized GCC
Mumbai, 12th December 2025: In a major push toward Maharashtra’s ambition of becoming a leading Global Capability Center (GCC) hub, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday announced that Brookfield will establish Asia’s largest GCC project in Mumbai. The facility, spread across nearly 20 lakh sq. ft., is expected to create 45,000 jobs — including 15,000 direct and 30,000 indirect employment opportunities.
The announcement came during a high-level meeting at the Jio Convention Centre, attended by Chief Minister Fadnavis, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, ANSR CEO Vikram Ahuja and Brookfield’s Ankur Gupta. The discussions centred on major investment proposals and strategic technology collaborations that could significantly benefit the state.
Fadnavis said Maharashtra’s strong talent pool, reliable infrastructure and business-friendly policies have positioned the state as a preferred destination for Global Capability Centers. “The new GCC policy will open avenues for large-scale skill-based employment and drive economic growth,” he said.
He also shared that global logistics giant FedEx has expressed interest in setting up its GCC and other operations near the Mumbai–Navi Mumbai airport corridor, further boosting Maharashtra’s international competitiveness.
Microsoft to Step Up Investments in Maharashtra
Underscoring the state’s rising relevance in India’s tech ecosystem, Fadnavis said he has urged Microsoft to prioritise Maharashtra for future investments. “Microsoft already has its largest investment footprint in Maharashtra. I am confident the company will bring in major new investments and help build the state into a leading Artificial Intelligence hub,” he said.
During the Microsoft AI Tour, Nadella showcased the Crime AIOS platform developed in partnership with the Maharashtra government. Fadnavis noted that the state’s AI-enabled crime control model is now emerging as a national benchmark.
Microsoft also held discussions with the state on developing AI Co-Pilots for healthcare, education, agriculture and public service delivery. Nadella assured that Maharashtra would remain a priority in Microsoft’s record USD 17 billion investment plan for India.
AI to Boost Crime Detection in Maharashtra
Fadnavis further highlighted the success of the state government’s “Marvel” platform, which has significantly reduced the time required to detect cyber and financial crimes — from several months to just 24 hours. The rapid identification process, he said, has helped save citizens’ money and enabled faster action against offenders.
The meeting was also attended by Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Ashwini Bhide, Industries Department Secretary Dr. Anbalagan and other senior officials.
