Google Reinstates Key Indian Apps After Policy Compliance, Government Asserts Protection for Start-ups
- ByStartupStory | March 4, 2024
In response to the Indian government’s objection over the delisting of nearly ten Indian apps from its Play Store, Google reinstated several popular applications on Saturday. The move came after these apps decided to comply with Play Store billing policies, with many opting to operate on a consumption-only basis.
Info Edge’s flagship apps, including Naukri, 99acres, and Shiksha, along with shaadi.com, have been successfully reinstated on the Play Store. However, apps like QuackQuack, TrulyMadly, and Stage continue to be delisted as of Saturday evening.
IT and Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized on Saturday that the delisting of Indian apps cannot be permitted, calling for a meeting with stakeholders on Monday. He communicated with Google, stating, “Our start-ups will get the protection that they need. This type of delisting cannot be permitted.”
Anupam Mittal, Founder & CEO of People Group (Shaadi.com), expressed concerns in a post on X, stating, “Apps are back without billing, which is as good as not being there.” He highlighted the impact on the consumer side of the business in the long term.
Sanjeev Bikhchandani, Founder of InfoEdge, acknowledged the efforts to reinstate their apps on a consumption model. He mentioned, “Many of the Info Edge apps are back on the Play Store. An effort very well led by Hitesh and the entire Info Edge team. Great crisis management.”
Kuku FM’s Co-Founder and CEO, Lal Chand Bisu, requested Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to involve both parties in the discussion, emphasizing the importance of presenting their side of the story.
Vinay Singhal, Co-Founder and CEO of STAGE, stated in a post on X that “STAGE remains delisted” on the Play Store as of Saturday evening.
Google had announced on Friday that developers could resubmit their apps by choosing one of three billing options, including a consumption-only basis without paying a service fee, Google Play’s Billing System, or an alternative billing system. The government’s commitment to safeguarding the start-up ecosystem remains evident as discussions between stakeholders and Google are set to take place next week.
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