In October 2026, NITI Aayog introduced a comprehensive Data Centre Evaluation Framework calling for the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) to establish a centralized audit mechanism. The framework also requires states to publish detailed approval matrices aiming to streamline clearances and improve infrastructure governance in India's data centre sector.
- Centralized audit mechanism with MeitY to validate data centre claims
- States to publish approval matrices clarifying clearance processes
- Framework shifts focus from investment announcements to economic value
What happened
NITI Aayog’s Frontier Tech Hub released a Data Centre Evaluation Framework in October 2026 asking the Indian government to create a centralized audit system with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) as the nodal body. This system would periodically inspect and verify the claims related to data centre establishments to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Why it matters
Furthermore, the framework signals a change in focus from competing for mere investment announcements toward enhancing infrastructure quality, investment readiness, and sustainable economic contributions. This alignment could foster stronger data infrastructure support critical for India’s digital economy ambitions.
What to watch next
Meanwhile, developments around India’s upcoming dedicated National Data Centre Policy remain key. Though details and timelines are not public, this policy could formalize and expand upon the framework’s principles, further shaping the regulatory landscape and investment environment for data centres in India.