Maharashtra Leads the Nation in Data Centers, Startups, and Innovation: CM Devendra Fadnavis

CM Presents Vision of a Developed Maharashtra at the US-India Business Council Event

Mumbai – Mumbai, the financial capital of India, has positioned Maharashtra as the leader in data centers, startups, innovation, and investments. The state has become the preferred destination for investors in technology, IT, and fintech. Maharashtra is developing an Innovation City in Navi Mumbai, while Vasai, Virar, and Palghar are being transformed into the fourth Mumbai, said Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

The CM was speaking at a special conference organized at the Taj Palace Hotel, Mumbai, to mark the 50th anniversary of the US-India Business Council (USIBC). The event was attended by USIBC President Ambassador Atul Keshap, US Consul General Mike Hankey, and US Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Suzanne Clark, among other dignitaries.

Maharashtra: India’s Leading Investment Destination

CM Fadnavis highlighted USIBC’s vital role in fostering economic cooperation between India and the US. He emphasized that India is the third-largest investment destination globally, with entrepreneurs from both nations eager to expand investments.

Maharashtra holds the top position in India in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) and has consistently broken its own records. The state is now recognized as India’s startup capital, leading in both startup investments and new enterprises, according to a recent report.

Transforming Maharashtra Through Infrastructure and Innovation

CM Fadnavis emphasized Maharashtra’s appeal as a business and innovation hub. With the Atal Setu Bridge and Navi Mumbai International Airport, the region is undergoing rapid transformation. The state is also building innovation-driven cities with a focus on education and research, attracting five globally top-ranked universities, including three from the US, turning Navi Mumbai into an “Edu-City”.

Green Energy for Data Centers

Maharashtra hosts 65% of India’s data centers, making it the data center capital of the country. The state plans to power these facilities with green energy by 2023. Additionally, India’s largest port is being developed in Palghar, three times the size of JNPT, and will be linked to bullet trains and multimodal corridors. Mumbai’s third international airport is also under development, further strengthening Maharashtra’s infrastructure and investment potential.

Gadchiroli: From Maoist-Affected Region to Steel Hub

CM Fadnavis noted that Gadchiroli, once known for Maoist activity, is now emerging as India’s steel hub, with an investment of ₹2 lakh crore in the steel sector. Meanwhile, Pune remains a major manufacturing center, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar is evolving into the electric vehicle capital of India, thanks to the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor.

US Investors Invited to WAVES 2025

Maharashtra has been chosen to host the global entertainment summit “WAVES 2025” (Audio-Visual Entertainment Summit) in Mumbai. CM Fadnavis invited US entrepreneurs and investors to participate, calling it a golden opportunity to showcase India’s entertainment industry, creativity, and talent to the world.

Earlier, USIBC President Ambassador Atul Keshap, US Consul General Mike Hankey, and US Chamber of Commerce CEO Suzanne Clark welcomed CM Fadnavis to the event.