India’s digital revolution is fueling an unprecedented demand for data centres, with an estimated 18 million square feet of space required in the next 4-5 years. This surge presents a significant opportunity for real estate developers to diversify beyond traditional housing and commercial projects
Smriti Irani Calls for Real Estate Diversification
At a CREDAI conference, BJP leader Smriti Irani emphasized the critical role of real estate in shaping India’s digital infrastructure. She urged developers to explore the growing demand for data centres and Global Capability Centres (GCCs) instead of solely focusing on residential and commercial spaces.
“Why should somebody presume that real estate is only about a gated community or a tall fancy building? Can we reorient how you are looked upon as an industry?” – Smriti Irani
“Why should somebody presume that real estate is only about a gated community or a tall fancy building? Can we reorient how you are looked upon as an industry?” – Smriti Irani
Real Estate’s Role in Supporting India’s Digital Growth
India is home to 1,600+ GCCs, employing nearly 2 million people, with rapid expansion into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. This growth is driving demand for a supporting ecosystem, including:
- Data centres for seamless digital operations
- Power grids to support large-scale IT infrastructure
- Technology hubs & business parks
- Housing & commercial spaces for professionals
- Healthcare & education facilities
With this evolving landscape, the real estate industry must position itself as a nation-building sector, contributing to India’s technological and economic expansion
CREDAI: Championing Growth in Emerging Cities
The Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India (CREDAI) is at the forefront of navigating this shift. Through initiatives like the New India Summit, CREDAI is helping developers adapt to changing market dynamics and capitalize on new opportunities in Bharat’s real estate sector
Final Thoughts: A New Era for Real Estate
As digital transformation accelerates, the real estate industry must redefine itself—not just as builders of homes and offices but as enablers of India’s technological future. By embracing data centres, GCCs, and infrastructure expansion, developers can drive India’s next phase of economic and digital growth
