Google to celebrate India's Independence Day, announces a challenge for non-profits

As part of India's Independence Day celebrations this week, Google announced to launch 'Google Impact Challenge in India' that will award Rs 3 crore to four Indian non-profit organisations that are using technology to improve people's lives.

The California-based tech-giant announced on Monday that it has invited the Indian non-profits to take on the challenge and win Global Impact Award and technical assistance from Google to bring their projects to life.

"On the eve of India's Independence Day, were celebrating the spirit of creativity and entrepreneurship of the worlds largest democracy by spotlighting the best local nonprofits that are using technology to make the world better," Nikesh Arora, senior vice-president and chief business officer, Google said on a blog post.

"Today were launching the Google Impact Challenge in India, inviting Indian nonprofits to tell us how theyd use technology to improve peoples lives.

At the end of the challenge, four non-profits will each receive a Rs 3 crore (around $500,000) Global Impact Award and technical assistance from Google to bring their projects to life," he wrote.

Arora said registered Indian non-profits can apply online until September 5.

Googlers from India, and around the world, will review applications and announce the 10 best projects on October 21.

"You can learn more about the top 10 finalists then, and cast a vote for who you think should receive the Fan Favorite award," Arora said.

"On October 31, I'll join Ram Shriram, Jacquelline Fuller, Anu Aga and Jayant Sinha in Delhi to hear the 10 finalists pitch live.

As judges, we'll select three awardees based on their potential impact, scalability and ingenuity.

We'll also announce the winner of the Fan Favorite, according to your vote," he wrote.

"Growing up in India, I've seen firsthand the vibrancy and innovativeness of India's social entrepreneurs.

I'm excited to see their projects and support their ideas for how to use technology and Rs 3 crores to change the world," Arora wrote.

With PTI inputs