IT Minister to Meet with Google Next Week to Discuss Play Store Issues

New Delhi, March 2 (IANS) Union IT and Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has called for a meeting with Google next week, following the reinstatement of some Indian digital companies’ apps on the Play Store. Vaishnaw emphasized the importance of protecting the interests of the startup ecosystem, stating that one big company cannot decide their fate.

“I am hopeful that Google will be reasonable in its approach. We have a large startup ecosystem and it’s crucial to protect their interests,” said the minister. He assured that necessary steps will be taken to safeguard the startup ecosystem, expecting Google to handle the matter reasonably.

Serial investor Ritesh Malik expressed gratitude towards Minister Vaishnaw for his prompt response, highlighting the support of policymakers for Startup India. Sources confirmed the reinstatement of apps such as Shaadi.com and Info Edge’s Naukri, 99acres, and Naukri Gulf, among others.

Info Edge co-founder Sanjeev Bikchandani acknowledged the development, praising the efforts of the Info Edge team in getting the apps back on the Play Store. The Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) criticized the removal of Indian companies’ apps and demanded Google to reinstate the delisted apps.

Google’s action to delist more than a dozen apps by major Indian digital companies, including Matrimony and Shaadi.com, came after announcing plans to take action against developers who did not comply with its payment policy. Apps from companies like Altt, Stage, Truly Madly, Quack Quack, Kuku FM, and FRND were also removed from the Play Store.

The reinstatement of some apps and the upcoming meeting between Minister Vaishnaw and Google signify ongoing efforts to resolve the issue and protect the interests of the Indian startup ecosystem amidst the digital landscape.