Chandrababu Naidu: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu recently gave an exclusive interview where he shared the inspiring story behind his first meeting with Microsoft founder Bill Gates, and how he persuaded him to set up operations in Hyderabad.

First Encounter with Bill Gates:

When asked about that pivotal encounter, Naidu explained that the initial outreach wasn’t smooth. “At first,” he recalled, “Bill Gates rejected my request for a meeting. He said he had no business with politicians and that he was too busy.” However, Naidu didn’t back down. He responded by emphasizing that his interest wasn’t political but purely business-driven. He wanted to discuss India’s potential in the tech space. Naidu said Gates eventually invited him to a cocktail party, but due to the stigma attached to such events at the time, Naidu politely declined. Instead, Gates offered him a short 10-minute meeting.
Determined to make the most of those ten minutes, Naidu prepared extensively. “I spent at least a week preparing a proper PowerPoint presentation,” he said. “I wanted to ensure I presented a strong case for India and Hyderabad.” That preparation paid off. After the presentation, Gates reportedly said, “I’ve never seen a political leader present this way. What can I do for you?”
Also Read: Chandrababu Naidu Expresses Gratitude as PM Modi Approves Badvel-Nellore CorridorNaidu responded confidently, “I don’t want anything for myself. But India needs investment. If you believe in India, invest in India, and when you come back, start with Hyderabad.” Naidu didn’t stop there. He later traveled to Seattle to meet Gates again and continued the conversation. Their discussions eventually led to a press meet in Seattle, followed by another meeting in Davos. Those consistent efforts paid off, as Gates finally agreed to invest in India, starting with Hyderabad. “That’s how it all began,” Naidu concluded. “Bringing technology to India was tough, but my passion never wavered.”

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