SNIPPETS OF ANNOUNCEMENTS MADE AT THE SEVENTH EDITION OF Google for India 2021

At the seventh edition of Google for India, which was held online on November 18th, Google announced a slate of new product features and partnerships in the country aimed at extending the benefits of India’s growing digital economy to more people. Announcements underline Google’s growing focus on product innovations that will help new Internet users in India get easier access to information in Indian languages, create more natural ways for local language speakers to interact with the internet, make the Android experience more helpful, and provide support to India’s small businesses and youth.

Across people, businesses, and institutions, the outbreak of COVID-19 has catapulted India’s adoption of digital to unprecedented levels. With the fundamental drivers of digitization now in place, and millions of new users coming online, India’s goal of becoming a truly digital economy is within sight. It is now imperative that we step up our efforts in building products that are even more inclusive of India’s diverse and unique needs. Last year, we launched the 10 billion dollar Google for India Digitization Fund. We’re delighted that in the first year of the Fund, we have collaborated with Reliance Jio to introduce the Made-for-India smartphone, JioNext, that will enable millions across India to experience the power of the Internet. This year, announcements aim at bridging more gaps and further broadening the inclusive base of India’s digital economy so that the advantages of this crucial transformation are accessible to everyone. - Sanjay Gupta Country Head & VIce President Google India

Supporting micro-SMBs with reliable credit to spur growth

At the event, Google announced the partnership with the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) to launch a USD 15 million (INR 110 crore) financial assistance program, enabling Indian micro-enterprises avail loans of INR 25 Lakh to INR 1 crore at competitive interest rates. The program aims to fulfill the credit needs of Indian micro-enterprises, helping them make investments in their business operations, such as purchasing new machinery and equipment, production infrastructure, and working capital requirements. The program will prioritize women-owned businesses and those engaged in the production of equipment for the country’s fight against the pandemic.