Several large international companies are exploring plans to set up global capability centres in India, driven by the country’s deep technology talent pool and growing innovation ecosystem. Videotelephony firm Zoom, telecom major T Mobile, and low cost airline Southwest Airlines are among the latest names in discussions with multiple state governments, according to people familiar with the matter. While T Mobile and Southwest Airlines did not respond to queries, a Zoom spokesperson said, “We do not comment on rumours or speculation.”
Interest in India is not limited to technology firms alone. According to sources, companies from diverse sectors are now evaluating India as a strategic base for technology operations and innovation. Many global firms are encouraged by the success of existing GCCs that have helped improve efficiency and accelerate digital transformation. A government official noted that policy uncertainty and tariff concerns linked to former US President Donald Trump caused a brief slowdown last year, but talks resumed once conditions stabilised, with some firms quietly starting operations without public announcements.
Recent months have seen several global brands establish or expand their presence in India. Charles Schwab announced a Hyderabad centre in December, while Vanguard opened its first India GCC in the city in November, which is expected to become its largest global technology hub. Other multinational companies such as McDonald’s and Costco also operate GCCs in Hyderabad. Beyond Telangana, cities including Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, Delhi NCR, and GIFT City are actively competing for new investments. Karnataka officials said Nokia has shown interest in setting up a GCC and research centres in the state, while Telangana is in talks with Unilever for a similar facility.
Experts say the role of GCCs has evolved significantly since Covid. “In the pre Covid era, companies came in largely for operational efficiency and business effectiveness,” said Ramkumar Ramamoorthy of a tech advisory firm. “In the post Covid era, companies have come in largely for research and development, innovation, and business transformation, leveraging digital technologies such as cloud, analytics, AI, IoT and cybersecurity.” According to an industry research firm, India hosts over 1,800 GCCs supporting more than 1,200 global enterprises, employing 2.1 million professionals and contributing about $68 billion or 1.6% to GDP.
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