Lucknow Positioned as a Leading Technology Hub in India
A recent collaborative report by Nasscom and Deloitte has strategically placed Lucknow among the select Indian cities poised to lead and significantly benefit from the anticipated "next wave of tech hubs." This recognition underscores the city's growing prominence in the national technology landscape.
Major Corporate Investments Fueling Growth
The momentum began with Sify Technologies inaugurating its AI Edge data centre in Lucknow in February 2025. This was followed by the company's December 2005 announcement of plans to develop a large hyperscale AI campus in the vicinity. In a significant move, IBM announced in April 2025 its decision to establish a software lab in the city. The same year witnessed other industry giants, including Genpact, Deloitte, and InMobi, establishing and expanding their operational footprint in Lucknow, signaling strong corporate confidence.
Government-Led IT City Development Initiatives
"This transformative wave is powered by a strong political will and a robust, actionable plan to turn this vision into reality," stated Balkar Singh, Commissioner of the UP Avas Vikas Parishad (UPAVP). Demonstrating this commitment, UPAVP recently initiated the development of a comprehensive 258-acre integrated IT-city within Vrindavan Yojana's sector 15. This ambitious project complements the existing Lucknow Development Authority's IT City project underway near New Jail Road.
"Currently, seven plots are available for auction, and we have already received inquiries from at least a dozen interested companies," Singh revealed. "The bidding process is scheduled to commence shortly, and we are optimistic about attracting additional key players to Lucknow's burgeoning tech ecosystem."
Strategic Advantages of the New IT City
Singh highlighted a critical differentiator for the UPAVP project. "While there is considerable excitement about Lucknow becoming an IT city, typical IT parks are often situated on the outskirts, which can be a deterrent for the workforce. Our project, however, is being developed in the heart of the city, which is its most significant advantage. The area is already fully functional, with established schools, residential apartments, and major hospitals nearby. These factors collectively create a highly advantageous environment for investor IT companies."
Comprehensive Infrastructure and Incentives
To support this ecosystem, the board is also developing auxiliary facilities around the proposed IT city, including a hotel, sports facilities, expansive green spaces, and an International Convention and Exhibition Centre (ICEC). Furthermore, UPAVP has introduced attractive financial incentives to encourage development.
"Typically, plots for such projects are priced under the commercial category, which commands higher rates than residential," Singh explained. "We have deliberately kept these plot rates on par with residential prices, making them more affordable. Additionally, plots larger than 15 acres are being offered at a 10% reduced cost. We have also eased payment terms; developers can now take possession after paying just 25% of the bid amount, a significant reduction from the previous requirement of 50%."
These concerted efforts by both the government and private sector are solidifying Lucknow's position as a formidable and strategically located technology hub, ready to capitalize on India's next phase of digital and technological growth.