
Pichar noted how Google opened its first offices in India in 2004, in Hyderabad and Bangalor, and that the company has invested in many Indian businesses, also through its growth equity investment CapitalG. The latest investment reflects the company’s confidence in the future of India, Pichar said, and will be given over the coming 5-7 years through a mix of equity investments, partnerships, and operational, infrastructure and ecosystem investments.
Investments will focus on four main areas, such as enabling affordable access and information for Indians in their own language, such as in Hindi, Tamil, Punjabi or any other language. Google also wants to build new products and services relevant to India’s unique needs, and in addition empow businesses as they continue or embark on their digital transformation. Finally, the company wants to apply tech and AI for social good, in areas like health, education, and agriculture