Desi Directions Win Big: Zoho’s Vembu Hails Mappls As R&D Gold

Image Source: The Hans India

Zoho Co-Founder Sridhar Vembu Has Publicly Praised MapMyIndia’s Mappls App, Calling It A Product Of “Decades Of R&D” That Surpasses Even Google Maps. His Endorsement Highlights The Growing Recognition Of Homegrown Innovation In India’s Digital Mapping Space, Especially After Government Support For Swadeshi Technology.

Mappls earns high praise from tech leader

On October 12, 2025, Sridhar Vembu, co-founder and chief scientist of Zoho Corporation, took to social media platform X to commend MapMyIndia’s Mappls app. He described the navigation platform as “very nice” and emphasized that it reflects “decades of R&D, much longer than Google Maps.” His remarks followed a public demonstration by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who showcased Mappls’ advanced 3D navigation and shop-level mapping features.

Vembu’s endorsement is being seen as a significant nod to India’s growing capabilities in indigenous technology development, particularly in sectors long dominated by global players.

Swadeshi innovation gains momentum

Mappls, developed by MapMyIndia, has positioned itself as a Swadeshi alternative to foreign mapping services. With over 35 million downloads, the app offers hyperlocal features tailored for Indian users, including real-time traffic updates, voice-guided navigation in regional languages, and detailed indoor mapping.

The app is also exploring collaborations with Indian Railways and other public infrastructure bodies to expand its utility beyond road navigation. This aligns with the government’s broader push for Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and digital sovereignty.

Key highlights:
- Sridhar Vembu praises Mappls as a product of long-term R&D
- Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw showcases Mappls’ 3D and shop-level mapping
- App surpasses 35 million downloads across platforms
- Positioned as a Swadeshi alternative to Google Maps
- Potential collaborations with Indian Railways underway

Industry impact and future outlook

The public recognition from both a leading tech entrepreneur and a central government minister is expected to boost Mappls’ credibility and adoption. Analysts believe this could encourage more Indian enterprises and government agencies to adopt homegrown digital infrastructure.

As India continues to invest in digital public goods and indigenous platforms, Mappls’ success story may serve as a blueprint for other startups aiming to challenge global incumbents with localized innovation.

Sources: Livemint, CIOL, India Today