Microsoft Launches India South Central Cloud Region in Hyderabad

Microsoft has expanded its cloud presence in India with the launch of its 'India South Central' region in Hyderabad, Telangana. This new region is part of Microsoft's $20.5 billion investment commitment to India's cloud and AI future. The company claims it now operates four cloud regions in India - Central India in Pune, South India in Chennai, West India in Mumbai, and the newly launched India South Central in Hyderabad.

The India South Central region features three availability zones and enhanced mechanical cooling with air-cooled chillers. Microsoft has signed over 1GW of power purchase agreements to offset its energy use. The new region includes named customers such as Adani Digital Lab, Bajaj Finance, HDFC Bank, and PB Pay.

Puneet Chandok, president of Microsoft India and South Asia, said that the company is making India AI-first by investing in infrastructure close to where data lives, teams work, and decisions are made. He emphasized that this investment commitment is not just about keeping up with demand but about enabling India to set the pace for the world.

Atish Bhanushali, SVP II and head of cloud infra at HDFC Bank, stated that the launch of the new region in Hyderabad is a significant milestone in their Azure cloud journey. He highlighted the benefits of having a dedicated DR region, which will strengthen business continuity and cross-cloud resilience.