Microsoft has made another strategic move to strengthen its presence in India with the acquisition of a 16.4-acre plot of land in Pune’s Hinjewadi area, a growing technology hub. The deal, finalized on August 20, was valued at ₹519.72 crore, with Microsoft’s Indian subsidiary paying ₹31.18 crore in stamp duty and a registration fee of ₹30,000. This purchase marks yet another investment in India’s booming technology sector, following earlier acquisitions in Pune and Hyderabad.
Pune’s Growing Role in India’s Tech Ecosystem
Hinjewadi, where the new plot is located, has evolved into a major IT hub over the last two decades. Originally a quiet suburb, it now houses some of the biggest names in technology, attracting young professionals and businesses alike. Microsoft’s latest acquisition further cements the area’s reputation as a key destination for tech giants looking to expand their operations in India.
This purchase is not an isolated event. In October 2022, Microsoft acquired a 25-acre plot in Pune’s Pimpri Chinchwad for ₹328 crore, and earlier this year, the company invested ₹267 crore in a 48-acre land parcel in Hyderabad. With this rapid expansion, Microsoft is positioning itself as a critical player in India’s technology landscape.
Microsoft’s Commitment to India
Microsoft’s presence in India spans across 10 major cities, including Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and New Delhi, where it employs over 23,000 people in various functions like sales, research, development, and customer service. Outside of its U.S. headquarters, Hyderabad is home to Microsoft’s largest software development center, further highlighting India’s importance to the company’s global strategy.
This land acquisition also comes on the heels of Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella’s February visit to Mumbai, where he announced the launch of ADVANTA(I)GE INDIA, a program aimed at training two million individuals in AI skills by 2025. The initiative is expected to focus on skilling people in tier 2 and tier 3 cities, as well as rural areas, underscoring Microsoft’s commitment to fostering talent in the country.
Public Opinion: What Do You Think?
With Microsoft making such significant investments in India, what do you think this means for the country’s technology sector? Will this further solidify India as a global tech hub? What impact do you think these acquisitions will have on employment and innovation in cities like Pune and Hyderabad? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!
