Raipur (Chhattisgarh) [India], June 13 (HBTV): India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI)-centric Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is being developed in Nava Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh. This will be a dedicated area focused exclusively on the development and operation of AI and computer data-related technologies.

According to the Chief Minister’s Office, the zone will house advanced computer systems and servers capable of supporting AI systems with human-like reasoning, making it a strategic location for global technology companies to operate their digital infrastructure.

To fast-track technological development, the government has provided tax exemptions and legal relaxations. This is the first time in India that a zone solely dedicated to AI is being created, aiming to establish Nava Raipur as the nation’s next major digital and technology hub.

The AI-based RackBank Data Center SEZ will be developed by RackBank Datacenters Pvt. Ltd. with an investment of approximately INR 1,000 crore. Spread across nearly six acres, the SEZ will feature a state-of-the-art 1.5 lakh square feet data center with plans for four high-density data centers, collectively offering an 80-megawatt capacity to support digital networks across various states.

This initiative is expected to elevate Chhattisgarh's profile on the national technology map.

Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai described the development as ‘a new beginning for a new Chhattisgarh’, noting that it will generate employment opportunities for local youth and provide technological recognition to the state. He said the project aligns with the Digital India and Make in India missions.

RackBank CEO Narendra Sen said the company's goal is to contribute to India's self-reliance in AI. The data center is expected to create roles such as IT engineers, data specialists, cybersecurity officers, and network managers. The company will partner with the state’s ITI, engineering, and polytechnic institutes to run training programs tailored to industry needs.

The AI ecosystem, Sen added, goes beyond computers to influence education, language, health, agriculture, and more. With major players like Google, OpenAI, Microsoft, and Meta expected to run their AI services through this data center, India will transition from being a consumer to a self-reliant producer and host of cutting-edge digital services.

The project's impact will extend beyond cities, reaching rural and tribal areas. Students from districts such as Kanker, Sukma, Bilaspur, and Dantewada will now have the opportunity to stay in Raipur and work with international tech firms—eliminating the need to relocate to Bengaluru or abroad.

The data center will follow green building certification norms and incorporate solar energy systems, water conservation practices, and energy-efficient infrastructure to promote sustainability.

(ANI)