In a landmark move aimed at accelerating the development of digital infrastructure, the Government of India is poised to offer data centre developers a generous package of tax exemptions and GST credits. This bold proposal, outlined in the draft National Data Centre Policy 2025, promises tax holidays lasting up to 20 years and the provision for input tax credits on capital assets, including construction and energy equipment. These incentives are designed to ease investment costs, bolster capacity expansion, and position India as a leading global hub for cloud and data services.
Key Highlights of the Tax Incentives and GST Credits
Tax Holiday Spanning Two Decades
The draft policy recommends a tax exemption scheme for up to 20 years, contingent on meeting capacity addition, energy efficiency, and employment generation targets. This long-term exemption is envisioned to make large-scale data centre investments financially viable over an extended horizon.
GST Input Tax Credit on Capital Assets
A significant innovation in the draft policy is the eligibility for GST input tax credit on capital expenditures, including construction materials, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, and electrical equipment. This effectively reduces upfront costs by allowing developers to claim credits on tax paid toward essential infrastructure components.
Targeted Capacity and Sustainable Practices
To qualify for these incentives, data centre developers must achieve specific benchmarks related to capacity expansion and power usage effectiveness. The policy also encourages the use of renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies, aligning with India’s green energy goals.
Facilitating Ease of Doing Business
The initiative aims to harmonize state-level policies by introducing single-window clearances and creating dedicated data centre zones. It also proposes infrastructure status recognition for the industry, potentially easing access to power, land subsidies, and skilled labour.
Addressing Infrastructure Bottlenecks
Recognizing land availability and reliable power as critical hurdles, the draft policy urges states to identify land near industrial corridors, IT hubs, or manufacturing clusters for dedicated data centre parks. Additionally, it emphasizes collaboration between ministries to ensure consistent electricity supply.
Supporting Global Competitiveness
The policy includes special privileges for global cloud infrastructure players, AI development hubs, and capability centres that co-locate within data centre ecosystems. This strategic clustering is aimed at strengthening India’s position in emerging technology sectors such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
Market and Industry Implications
Rapid Market Growth: India’s data centre capacity has been growing at about 24% annually, with a projected total of 1,825 MW by 2027. Occupancy rates between 75% and 80% indicate strong demand that currently outpaces supply.
Investment Attraction: The proposed tax and GST incentives will significantly lower the cost of capital, enhancing project viability and attracting both domestic and international players.
Sectoral Boost: The incentives are expected to stimulate infrastructure development in tier 2 and tier 3 cities, broadening geographic data centre distribution and enabling wider digital inclusion.
Challenges and Industry Feedback
Despite enthusiasm, industry representatives highlight the need for timely land approvals, reliable power with dual supply lines, enhanced broadband connectivity, and policy clarity on issues like permanent establishment status and IP rights. Coordinated action by multiple regulatory bodies will be essential to realize the policy’s full potential.
Conclusion
The Government of India’s proposed tax break and GST credit package for data centres marks a transformative milestone towards building a robust and sustainable digital ecosystem. With its focus on capacity growth, green energy, and streamlined regulations, the draft policy signals India’s ambition to become a global leader in data infrastructure, cloud computing, and advanced digital services.
As these proposals move through consultation and finalization stages, they hold the promise to unleash substantial investment, create jobs, and empower India’s digital journey for decades to come.
Sources: Moneycontrol, Business Standard, Communication Today, KNN India, Indian Infrastructure, The Hindu Business Line.
