Google CEO Sundar Pichai Honored with Padma Bhushan, Salutes Indian Roots
“India is a part of me and I carry it with me wherever I go,” said Google and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai, while receiving the prestigious Padma Bhushan award from the Indian ambassador to the US.
Indian-American Photosi has been awarded the 2022 Padma Bhushan in the category of Trade and Industry. Madurai-born Photosi was selected as one of the 17 awardees earlier this year.
He received India’s third highest honor in front of his immediate family members in San Francisco on Friday.
“I am very grateful to the Indian government and the people of India for this great privilege. It is very important to be honored in this way by the country that shaped me,” said 50-year-old Photosi while accepting the award from the Indian Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu.
“India is a part of me. I take it with me wherever I go. (Unlike this beautiful medal that I will keep somewhere safe),” he said.
“I was fortunate to grow up in a family that loves learning and knowledge, with parents who sacrifice a lot to ensure that I get opportunities to explore things that I like,” said Pishi.
Consul General of India in San Francisco, TV Nagendra Prasad, was also present during the ceremony.
Sandhu said Photosi represents the limitless possibilities of transformative technology.
“He has been making admirable efforts in making digital tools, and skills accessible to different parts of society in different parts of the world,” he said.
Keeping in mind Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for technology that includes the 3Ss – speed, simplicity and service, Sandhu hopes that Google will take full advantage of the digital transformation taking place in India.
Photosi said it has been amazing to return to India many times over the years to see the pace of technological change.
Innovations created in India are benefiting people around the world – from digital payments to voice technology, he said.
“I look forward to continuing the positive relationship between Google and India, as we work together to bring the benefits of technology to the masses,” he said.
Businesses are seizing the opportunities of digital transformation, and more people are accessing the internet than ever before, including in rural areas, Photosi said.
“Prime Minister Modi’s Digital India vision has accelerated that progress and I am proud that Google continues to invest in India, partnering with government, businesses, and communities in two decades of transformation,” he said.
“Every new technology that arrived at our door made our lives better. And that put me on the path to Google, and the opportunity to help build technology that improves people’s lives around the world,” he said.
Pichai said he sees a huge opportunity.
About India taking over the presidency of the G20, Photosi said: “It’s an incredible opportunity to build consensus on strengthening the global economy by promoting an open, connected, secure, and inclusive internet. That’s the goal we share, and we’re committed to.” to continue with you.” India officially assumed the Presidency of the G20 on Thursday.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to do this work in collaboration and bring the benefits of technology to many people,” said Photosi.
Google this year added 24 new languages to its translation service using new advances in machine learning. Eight of them are languages of Indian origin.
“It means a lot to see how people can get information and knowledge in the language of their choice, and see the world open up to them in new ways. That’s why I continue to be so optimistic about technology, and why I believe India can and should continue to lead,” he added.
