Nvidia Corp is set to provide artificial intelligence processors for Reliance Industries Ltd’s upcoming 1-gigawatt data centre in Gujarat. The collaboration extends to partnerships with Infosys, TCS, Tech Mahindra, and Wipro to strengthen their presence in India’s expanding market, according to CEO Jensen Huang. This announcement was made during Nvidia’s AI summit, where Huang and Reliance’s Mukesh Ambani discussed the partnership aimed at advancing AI infrastructure in India.

Huang highlighted that Nvidia will deliver its Blackwell AI processor for Reliance’s data centre. Additionally, Hopper AI chips will be supplied to large-scale data centres operated by companies like Yotta Data Services and Tata Communications. Infosys, TCS, and Wipro will assist clients in deploying AI through custom-built solutions using Nvidia’s enterprise software platform. Tech Mahindra plans to develop a custom AI model named Indus 2.0 using its new Hindi-language AI model.

AI Infrastructure and Innovation

The partnership between Reliance and Nvidia aims to establish a strong AI infrastructure in India. Ambani believes this will enhance local capabilities and position India as a key player in the global intelligence market. “India will start with the absolutely best that Nvidia has,” Ambani stated. The collaboration also includes creating applications that Reliance could offer to Indian consumers, according to Huang.

During the Nvidia AI Summit 2024, Ambani and Huang engaged in a fireside chat discussing India’s potential as a global leader in AI. Ambani expressed confidence that India is on the brink of a new intelligence age, driven by new technologies like AI and the aspirations of its people. He emphasised India’s potential to surprise the world with its achievements in intelligence technology.

Expanding India’s Digital Landscape

Ambani noted that India boasts one of the best digital connectivity infrastructures globally, with extensive 4G, 5G, and broadband networks. He highlighted Reliance Jio as the largest data company worldwide, offering data at a low cost compared to other countries. “Like we did with data, in a few years from now we can surprise the world with what Indians can achieve in intelligence,” he said.

Nvidia already operates in six locations across India, collaborating with enterprises, cloud providers, and startups to build AI infrastructure powered by its advanced GPUs and software platforms. Huang emphasised India’s role as a hub for designing chips, with significant contributions from engineering teams in Pune, Gurugram, and Hyderabad.

India’s Role in Global AI

Huang suggested that India should prioritise becoming an AI-exporting nation using its existing talent pool rather than focusing solely on chip manufacturing. He advised Indian companies to seize opportunities in the emerging AI industry rather than waiting decades to enter established sectors. “Don’t enter this 20 years later. Enter this one at ground zero,” Huang urged.

Recalling a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Huang mentioned Modi’s advice against exporting data only to import intelligence later. Modi likened this practice to exporting flour and importing bread. Huang also noted the need for energy-efficient data centres located away from Mumbai due to its high capacity concentration.

Nvidia’s Commitment to India

Nvidia is committed to expanding its ecosystem in India, which is central to the global IT industry. Huang stated that India is crucial to the world’s computer industry and predicted a 20-fold increase in computing capacities by 2024. He foresees India soon exporting impactful AI solutions worldwide.

Huang concluded by highlighting India’s potential for growth in gaming consumption through enhanced broadband services. He reiterated Nvidia’s dedication to supporting India’s technological advancements and contributing to its emergence as a leader in artificial intelligence.