Google News Initiative (GNI) has launched the Indian Languages Program to provide support to local news publishers in India. This comprehensive initiative aims to empower publishers through training, technical assistance, and funding, enhancing their digital operations and expanding their readership. The program covers nine languages, including English, Hindi, Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Malayalam, Gujarati, and Marathi, making it Google’s most diverse technology program for news publishers.
The Indian Languages Program follows a structured format that includes various components such as inspiration series, virtual workshops, and guest speaker sessions. Topics covered include Core Web Vitals, website optimization, News Consumer Insights (NCI), YouTube, and more.
Selected publishers will undergo a diagnostic process to assess their page speed, core web vitals performance, and other relevant parameters. Based on the evaluation, personalized guidance and support will be provided to address areas for improvement, including Core Web Vitals, schema, site manifests, mobile usability, content formats, and revenue enhancement solutions.
A subset of publishers will receive dedicated consultations and technical implementation support to ensure a top-notch user experience. This long-term engagement will involve close collaboration to create a tailored roadmap.
To be eligible for the program, publishers must meet specific criteria, including being a small or medium-sized Indian language news organization incorporated in India with an operational website and at least 12 months of continuous operation. Additionally, eligible applicants should have a minimum of 50 full-time employees and can include for-profit or nonprofit traditional news organizations, digital natives, and broadcasters.
Applications for the Indian Languages Program will be evaluated by the Google Project team and external advisors. The Project team will review all applications and may involve expert consultants for further analysis and recommendations. Eligible applicants will be informed by the Google Project team about their selection.
