Microsoft to offer free cloud services to Indian startups

Microsoft will offer free its Azure cloud services to start-ups in India for speeding up the entrepreneurial ecosystem in India, the global software major said. Cloud services such as software as a service, platform as a service and infrastructure as a service are provided by vendors over the internet to enterprises across verticals to drive their businesses.

"Startups need all the help they can to get access to the right tools, technology and guidance. At Microsoft, we are committed to supporting these startups and through the BizSpark Plus program we want to support India's upcoming entrepreneurs," said Microsoft Ventures India director Rajinish Menon.
Microsoft BizSpark is a worldwide program which gives wings to startup dreams by offering free Microsoft software development tools, connecting startups with key industry players, investors and giving marketing visibility. Startups will also receive the full suite of development and test software and Visual Studio, Windows and Office tools in this latest offering, Microsoft added.

Microsoft is also participating in the 'Digital India' program initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi by organizing hackathons in 17 college campuses across India targeting 4,000 students.