DELHI, India — On Monday, Google announced the launch for the India Digitization Fund. Through this effort, Google will invest ₹75,000 crore, or approximately $10 billion, into India over the next 5-7 years.
The tech firm plans to do this through a mix of equity investments, partnerships, and operational, infrastructure and ecosystem investments. Google stated it is a reflection of its confidence in the future of India and its digital economy.
Today at #GoogleForIndia we announced a new $10B digitization fund to help accelerate India’s digital economy. We’re proud to support PM @narendramodi’s vision for Digital India – many thanks to Minister @rsprasad & Minister @DrRPNishank for joining us. https://t.co/H0EUFYSD1q
— Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) July 13, 2020
Investments will focus on four areas important to India’s digitization:
- First, enabling affordable access and information for every Indian in their own language, whether it’s Hindi, Tamil, Punjabi or any other
- Second, building new products and services that are deeply relevant to India’s unique needs
- Third, empowering businesses as they continue or embark on their digital transformation
- Fourth, leveraging technology and AI for social good, in areas like health, education, and agriculture
The announcement took place at the sixth annual edition of “Google for India” virtual event. Earlier in the day, Sundar Pichai discussed with India’s Prime Minister on a wide range of subjects”. The Prime Minister also discussed the challenges of the global pandemic and new work culture with the top business leader.