PM Modi Urges Indians To Switch To ‘Swadeshi Tech’: What Are The Indian Alternatives For WhatsApp, Google Maps, Gmail, Powerpoint?
In a significant push for technological self-reliance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged Indians to embrace homegrown digital platforms as alternatives to global tech giants. Emphasizing the importance of ‘Swadeshi Tech,’ PM Modi highlighted the need to support Indian innovation to strengthen the nation’s digital ecosystem.
This call comes at a time when US President Donald Trump has imposed heavy tariffs on India and hiked the H1-B visa fee to $100,000, underscoring the importance of becoming self-sufficient in critical technological sectors.
Here are some Indian alternatives to popular global tech platforms that are widely used in our daily lives:
### 1. WhatsApp – Arattai
Arattai, developed by Zoho Corporation, is a secure messaging app designed to rival WhatsApp. Offering end-to-end encryption, group chats, and multimedia sharing, Arattai promises privacy and seamless communication tailored for Indian users. With a strong focus on data security and hosting on local servers, it aligns closely with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. However, whether it will achieve the widespread adoption enjoyed by WhatsApp remains to be seen.
[Arattai](https://www.zoho.com/arattai/)
### 2. Google Maps – Mappls
Mappls, created by MapmyIndia, is a capable Indian alternative to Google Maps. This navigation platform provides detailed maps, real-time traffic updates, and location-based services customized for India’s diverse geography. From bustling urban streets to remote rural routes, Mappls offers precise navigation and valuable local insights.
[Mappls](https://www.mapmyindia.com/)
### 3. Microsoft Word / Google Docs – Zoho Writer
Zoho Writer, another product by Zoho Corporation, is a robust word-processing tool competing with Microsoft Word and Google Docs. This cloud-based platform supports collaborative editing, advanced formatting, and seamless integration with other Zoho apps, making it ideal for professionals and businesses seeking Swadeshi alternatives.
[Zoho Writer](https://www.zoho.com/writer/)
### 4. Microsoft Excel – Zoho Sheet
Zoho Sheet is India’s answer to Microsoft Excel, offering powerful spreadsheet functionalities. It features intuitive data analysis, charting tools, and real-time collaboration, catering to the needs of individuals and businesses alike. This versatile and locally-developed solution strengthens the ecosystem of Indian productivity apps.
[Zoho Sheet](https://www.zoho.com/sheet/)
### 5. Microsoft PowerPoint – Zoho Show
For presentation needs, Zoho Show emerges as a strong Swadeshi alternative to Microsoft PowerPoint. This platform enables users to create visually appealing slideshows with easy-to-use templates and collaboration features, ensuring seamless teamwork and professional-quality outputs. Notably, IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has reportedly used Zoho Show in a recent Cabinet briefing, opting out of Microsoft PowerPoint.
[Zoho Show](https://www.zoho.com/show/)
### 6. Gmail – Zoho Mail
Zoho Mail presents a clean, efficient alternative to Gmail. With a user-friendly interface, powerful email management tools, and integration with Zoho’s suite of productivity apps, Zoho Mail serves both personal and professional users while prioritizing data privacy on Indian servers.
[Zoho Mail](https://www.zoho.com/mail/)
### 7. Adobe Sign – Zoho Sign
Zoho Sign offers a secure platform for digital signatures and document verification, making it India’s counterpart to Adobe Sign. With legally binding e-signatures, seamless workflow integration, and compliance with Indian regulations, Zoho Sign is a promising choice for businesses transitioning to digital processes.
[Zoho Sign](https://www.zoho.com/sign/)
### 8. Amazon – Flipkart
E-commerce has become an integral part of everyday life, with Amazon being a dominant player. Flipkart stands tall as a Swadeshi alternative to Amazon, offering a vast range of products from electronics to fashion. Flipkart actively supports local sellers and provides a shopping experience tailored to Indian consumers.
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By embracing these homegrown digital platforms, India can boost its technological self-reliance while supporting domestic innovation and enterprises. The ‘Swadeshi Tech’ movement aims to create a more secure, privacy-focused, and robust digital ecosystem for the country’s future.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/tech/pm-modi-urges-indians-to-switch-to-swadeshi-tech-what-are-the-indian-alternatives-for-whatsapp-google-maps-gmail-powerpoint
