India’s first built-to-suit data centre for Meta: Reliance signs pact to build 168 MW AI-enabled hub in Gujarat

India’s first built-to-suit data centre: Reliance, Meta join hands for 168 MW AI-enabled facility in Gujarat. (Pics: IANS, ANI)


As the global race for artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure accelerates, India is positioning itself as a key hub for next-generation computing with Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) joining hands with Meta Platforms Inc. (Meta) for a major AI-enabled data centre project in Jamnagar, Gujarat.

The partnership will see RIL develop a 168 MW data centre facility that will become the first built-to-suit data centre capacity in India created for Meta. The project, expected to be delivered within two years, is designed to support Meta’s global infrastructure and artificial intelligence computing requirements, with an option to further scale capacity.

The development marks a major expansion in India’s digital infrastructure ecosystem as demand for AI computing power continues to rise worldwide. The facility is expected to strengthen India’s role in the global AI landscape by combining large-scale computing capacity, renewable energy use and advanced connectivity.

Top leaders on landmark deal

Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director, Reliance Industries Limited, said the partnership reflects India’s readiness to lead in AI-driven innovation. “This partnership with Meta marks a transformative moment for India’s digital infrastructure. Building India’s first built-to-suit data centre for a global technology leader of Meta’s scale demonstrates India’s readiness to be at the forefront of the global AI revolution,” Mukesh Ambani said.

He further added, “At Reliance, we are committed to building world-class digital infrastructure that will power the next generation of AI innovation not just for India, but for the world. Jamnagar will become a landmark destination for hyperscale AI computing, and we are proud to partner with Meta to make this vision a reality.”

Mark Zuckerberg, Founder and CEO, Meta, said the collaboration would help expand Meta’s AI infrastructure while strengthening its investment in India. “We’re proud to be working with Reliance to build our first AI-enabled data centre in India. This world-class facility in Jamnagar will help us scale our AI infrastructure globally while deepening our long-term investment in India’s economy,” Zuckerberg said.

Key points of the agreement

  • 168 MW AI infrastructure project: RIL will develop the facility with an initial 168 MW capacity and scope for expansion.
  • Global AI computing support: Meta will lease capacity from the centre for its worldwide infrastructure and AI compute needs.
  • Single-window execution by RIL: Reliance will manage the complete project lifecycle, including design, construction, utility management, renewable power supply, connectivity and operations.
  • Green technology integration: The facility will use renewable energy for power and desalinated seawater for cooling.
  • Connectivity advantage: The project will benefit from Jio’s fibre network and access to western India’s submarine cable landing stations.

 

The partnership aligns with the Government of India’s focus on developing data centres as strategic infrastructure and attracting global AI investments. The Jamnagar facility is expected to become a benchmark for future AI-focused digital infrastructure projects in India.