Nokia is set to establish the world’s largest fixed network testbed in Chennai, aiming to revolutionize ultra-high-speed internet and enhance virtual and augmented reality technologies. This testbed, focusing on passive optical networks ranging from 10G to 100G, will be among Nokia’s largest R&D facilities, with an investment of approximately Rs 450 crore. The agreement will be signed in San Francisco in the presence of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who is on a 17-day U.S. tour to attract investments.
The center, located at the State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu in Siruseri, will play a crucial role in advancing next-generation networks and creating around 100 specialized jobs. Tamil Nadu’s government will provide the necessary infrastructure, regulatory, and policy support to ensure the project’s success. This collaboration highlights Chennai’s growing importance in Nokia’s global operations and the state’s emergence as a hub for technological innovation.
T.R.B. Rajaa, Tamil Nadu’s Minister for Industries, Investment Promotion, and Commerce, praised the initiative, attributing it to progressive efforts like the Naan Mudhalvan scheme and the Tamil Nadu R&D Policy 2022. These initiatives have spurred significant investments in the state, further cementing Tamil Nadu’s status as a global destination for R&D and technology services.
Chief Minister Stalin’s U.S. visit follows earlier trips to the UAE, Singapore, Japan, and Spain, which collectively attracted investment proposals worth Rs 10,882 crore and are expected to generate over 18,500 jobs. Stalin emphasized that Tamil Nadu has secured around 872 investment deals worth Rs 9.99 trillion since his government assumed office, creating approximately 1.89 million jobs. Notably, 234 of these projects have already commenced production.
At the Global Investors Meet in January, Tamil Nadu secured commitments totaling Rs 6.6 trillion, with projects worth Rs 59,454 crore already realized. Stalin’s current trip to the U.S. further underscores his administration’s focus on fostering economic growth and technological advancement in the state.
