March 2: Google’s App delisting recently has upset the Indian Government. In response to Google’s recent removal of several apps from its Play Store, the government has taken a firm stance, declaring that the delisting of Indian apps is unacceptable.
Following the Ministers firm stand, Google has initiated the process to restore Indian mobile apps which had been dropped from the Play Store over a dispute over service fees. The decision was taken after the company’s officials held a meeting with IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, sources said.
Earlier on, IT and Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized the importance of the startup ecosystem to the Indian economy, asserting that the fate of these startups cannot be left at the mercy of major tech companies.
On Friday, Google had removed apps belonging to 10 Indian companies, sparking controversy in one of its fastest-growing markets. Google dominates the Indian market as 94% of phones are based on its Android platform. The list included well-known names such as Bharatmatrimony and Naukri.
Our startups will get the protection that they need – Minister Vaishnaw
In an exclusive interview with PTI, Minister Vaishnaw stated, “India is very clear, our policy is very clear…our startups will get the protection that they need.” His remarks come in light of Google’s app delisting actions, which began with the removal of various apps, including popular matrimony apps, from the Play Store in India due to a dispute over service fee payments. This move has sparked outcry among app developers and well-known startup founders.
Vaishnaw addressed the issue of Google’s App delisting with gravity, affirming, “This kind of delisting cannot be permitted.” He announced plans for the government to meet with Google and the affected app developers next week to address and resolve the dispute.
“I have already called Google…I have already called the app developers who have been delisted, we will be meeting them next week,” Vaishnaw confirmed.
The government’s swift response to Google’s App delisting action underscores its commitment to safeguarding the interests of Indian startups and ensuring a fair and equitable environment for their growth and success. The upcoming meeting signals a proactive effort to address concerns and find a resolution that upholds the integrity of the Indian startup ecosystem.
The impact of Google’s App Delisting
The app delisting by Google can have several downsides, particularly for the affected Indian startups and the broader digital ecosystem:
- Loss of Revenue: For startups whose apps are delisted, the immediate consequence is a loss of revenue from app downloads and in-app purchases. This can significantly impact their financial stability and growth prospects.
- User Trust and Reputation: Being removed from the Play Store can damage the trust and reputation of the affected apps and their associated startups. Users may question the reliability and legitimacy of these apps, leading to a loss of user base and potential future customers.
- Market Access Restrictions: Without visibility on the Play Store, startups may struggle to reach their target audience and expand their market reach. This could hinder their ability to compete effectively against other apps and businesses in the industry.
- Legal and Regulatory Concerns: The dispute over service fee payments between Google and app developers may escalate into legal battles, consuming time and resources for both parties. This could further strain the relationship between Google and the Indian startup community.
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship Deterrent: The threat of app delisting by major tech companies like Google could discourage innovation and entrepreneurship in the Indian startup ecosystem. Startups may become hesitant to develop new apps or invest in digital ventures due to concerns over arbitrary removal from app stores.
Overall, Google’s App delisting carries significant repercussions for Indian startups, potentially impacting their financial viability, market presence, and overall growth trajectory.
