Google institutes award for best technology usage

Internet giant Google has announced the launch of 'Google Impact Challenge in India' ahead of India's Independence Day celebrations this week.

India, the largest democracy in the world, is awaiting its 67th Independence Day celebrations.

'Google Impact Challenge in India', invites Indian Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to explain how they use technology to improve people's lives.

In the end, four non-profit organisations will get technical assistance from Google to bring their projects to life along with Rs3 crore (around $500,000) Global Impact Award each.

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

Registered Indian non-profit organisations can apply online until September 5, said Arora. Googlers from India, and around the world, will review applications and announce the 10 best projects on 21 October.
 
One can learn more about the top 10 finalists then, and cast a vote for who one think should receive the Fan Favourite award.

Arora also wrote that growing up in India, he has seen the vibrancy and innovativeness of India's social entrepreneurs firsthand. He is excited to see the projects and support their ideas for how to use technology and Rs3 crores to brighten the world.

A team of Googlers will review the applications. Arora, Ram Shriram, Jacquelline Fuller, Anu Aga and Jayant Sinha in Delhi are going to announce the 10 finalists on 21st October 2013. And within these 10, 3 awardees, based on their potential impact, scalability and ingenuity. A video showcase about each of these projects will be shown for public voting.