In an effort to broaden its nationwide presence, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) company Zoho has announced plans to establish a research and development (R&D) facility in eastern Uttar Pradesh by the end of the year.
Sridhar Vembu, CEO of Zoho, revealed the news on X, stating, “We are going to eastern UP this year, our first major rural expedition north. I wish we could have a meaningful presence everywhere and maybe over the next 20 years we will get there. That is my dream.”
Vembu emphasized the potential of untapped talent across India, noting, “There is vast talent waiting for opportunity everywhere in Bharat. We want to create world-class R&D capability wherever we go and there is a speed limit to how fast you can scale up R&D teams, and it is not at all like scaling up manufacturing plants.” He also highlighted the company’s successful R&D operations in Kottarakara, Kerala.
Expressing his admiration for India’s diverse culture, Vembu added, “I love our nation—while I am proud of my Tamil heritage, I am equally fond of every one of our states and our regions and the vast cultural, spiritual, and civilizational heritage they represent.”
Earlier this year, in February, Zoho launched an Artificial Intelligence (AI) R&D center in Kottarakkara, Kerala, as part of an initiative led by the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) and the Institute of Human Resources Development (IHRD).
In addition to its expansion efforts, media reports indicate that Zoho has submitted a proposal to the Indian government seeking incentives for a semiconductor fab plant. Founded in 1996 and based in Tamil Nadu, Zoho provides software and related services on a subscription basis to businesses in 150 countries, competing with industry leaders like Microsoft and Salesforce.
