MeitY Opens Continuous GPU Empanelment to Boost IndiaAI Mission
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has launched a continuous empanelment process for AI cloud service providers to supply GPUs and AI compute services under the IndiaAI Mission. Unlike previous one-time bidding tenders, this ongoing process allows vendors to apply at any time, provided they meet the lowest discovered rates (L1) from earlier rounds.
Key Highlights of the Empanelment Process
- Quarterly Renewals: MeitY will update the empanelment every three months, inviting revised financial proposals from registered vendors.
- Diverse Participation: Eligible applicants include data center providers, cloud service providers (CSPs), managed service providers (MSPs), and system integrators.
- Minimum AI Compute Requirement: Each provider must offer at least 1,000 AI compute units, with 70% of GPUs supporting FP64 (double precision) capabilities for high-accuracy computations.
- Self-Service Portal: Bidders must provide a portal for GPU access, tracking usage, and enabling subsidized AI compute services.
Government Support & Competitive Bidding
The government will subsidize GPU access up to 40% through a coupon-based system, making AI computing more accessible. Additionally, the empanelment framework is expected to increase competition, allowing new firms to challenge existing L1 bidders with lower pricing.
The first application round closes on April 30, 2025, with evaluations beginning in May 2025. Subsequent rounds will remain open for new applicants.
Source: Moneycontrol
