Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu met with Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates in New Delhi, marking a crucial step toward enhancing cooperation between the Andhra Pradesh government and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The high-profile meeting, which lasted for 40 minutes, centered on harnessing cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), to advance education, healthcare, and agriculture in the state.
Naidu, who was in Delhi to attend a wedding reception, described the discussion as “wonderful” and “productive.” Reflecting on their past engagements, he noted the evolution of their conversations from IT in 1995 to AI in 2025.
“It was a pleasure reconnecting with Mr. Gates after many years. We explored how advanced technology can transform lives,” Naidu stated.
Sources indicate that multiple agreements are being formulated between the Andhra Pradesh government and the Gates Foundation, with a strong emphasis on launching innovative programs tailored to the state’s development needs.
A key proposal discussed was the establishment of India’s first AI university in Andhra Pradesh, with Naidu extending an invitation for Gates to serve as an advisor. This initiative aims to position the state as a leader in AI-driven education and innovation.
Naidu reiterated Andhra Pradesh’s readiness to serve as a gateway for the Gates Foundation’s initiatives in South India, offering full support to amplify their impact. While details of Gates’ response were not disclosed, Naidu mentioned that Gates’ team would evaluate the proposals and finalize decisions in the coming weeks.
This meeting rekindles a long-standing relationship between Naidu and Gates, dating back to the 1990s when Naidu played a pivotal role in bringing Microsoft’s India Development Centre to Hyderabad. That landmark decision helped shape Hyderabad into a global IT hub.
Today, their renewed collaboration signals a new chapter, one focused on leveraging AI and emerging technologies for societal progress.