NITI Aayog Proposes New Framework for Data Centre Evaluation
India's NITI Aayog has released a new framework for evaluating data centres, introducing requirements for both central government bodies and state administrations.
NITI Aayog, India's policy think tank, has introduced a Data Centre Evaluation Framework aimed at streamlining and standardizing the assessment and oversight of data centre facilities. The framework outlines new guidelines for the sector.
A key recommendation is the establishment of a centralized audit mechanism, with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) designated as the nodal ministry. This audit will periodically verify claims made by data centre operators regarding their operations and compliance.
The framework also mandates that each state must publish a "State-wise Data Centre Approval Matrix." This matrix will detail all necessary clearances for data centre projects, the issuing authorities, and estimated processing times. The objective is to create a unified, digital interface for managing and tracking permit processes.
Furthermore, the document emphasizes the adoption and reporting of efficiency metrics such as Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) and Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE). NITI Aayog also intends to establish a national legal responsibility matrix and develop incentive structures for data centre development and operation.