India Calls on Cisco to Boost Digital Infrastructure, AI, and 6G Collaboration

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has urged Cisco to significantly expand its presence in India’s rapidly growing digital ecosystem, emphasizing the country’s pivotal role in shaping the global tech future.

• Participants: Scindia met with Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins and his leadership team in New Delhi.
• Focus Areas:
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and 6G development
  • Cybersecurity enhancement
  • Inclusive digital growth, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities
  • Grassroots innovation to uplift the common man
• Strategic Vision: Scindia emphasized India’s emergence as a global innovation hub and invited Cisco to co-create solutions that empower communities and prepare future generations.

Cisco’s Growing India Footprint

• Cisco inaugurated its first manufacturing facility in Chennai in 2024, in partnership with Indian contract manufacturer Flex.
• The facility is expected to:
  • Generate $1.3 billion annually through exports and domestic production
  • Create 1,200 jobs
  • Produce advanced telecom equipment, contributing to India’s “AtmanirbharBharat” (self-reliant India) in tech

Broader Implications

Scindia’s outreach reflects India’s ambition to:

• Lead in next-gen technologies like 6G
• Build a secure, inclusive, and future-ready digital Bharat
• Attract global tech giants to invest deeper in its digital infrastructure and innovation ecosystem.