Google brings YouTube to India
08 May 2008
Google owned video-sharing site YouTube has started its operations in India by launching an Indian version of its site, the company announced today. YouTube India will deliver a variety of videos for the Indian public along with all the content from the YouTube global site, providing a platform to share Indian culture and lifestyle with the largest online video community in the world
The site has tied up with numerous companies such as UTV, NDTV, India TV, Zoom TV, Rajshri Films, Eros Entertainment, IIFA, the ministry of tourism, IIT Delhi, and KrishCricket , with the objective of bringing exclusive Indian content to users in newer ways.
Speaking at the launch, Steve Chen, chief technology officer and co-founder of YouTube, said, "We are very excited to bring a local version of YouTube to India considering the passion of users here for music and entertainment. For a culture that is steeped both in video and in storytelling, and where everyone has a voice -- YouTube India will not only offer Indian users more relevant content but also provide a platform to share India's unique and diverse culture and lifestyle with the largest online video community in the world."
YouTube India features a localised home page, that allow users to perform multiple tasks such as create and share videos, discover the most popular and relevant videos in India through serach and view option, and also connect with other users across India and globally.
In addition, content uploaded by users in India would show up as 'top favourites' and 'recommended content' on the local YouTube Web site. YouTube India also aims at facilitating exchange amongst the large Indian NRI community.
All uploaded content on YouTube is protected by its digital hash technology for copyright protection.
YouTube was founded in 2005 by three former PayPal employees and within a year of its launch it was acquired by Google Inc for around $1.65 billion in November 2006.
YouTube has struck numerous partnership deals with content providers such as CBS, BBC, Universal Music Group, Sony Music Group, Warner Music Group, NBA, The Sundance Channel and many more.