The Indian unit of internet giant, Google has launched a new website for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the county, which will allow them to set up websites for free.

The new service in being offered under the programme titled India Get Your Business Online. The programme includes Website creation, Internet domain, email facilities and several other related services free of cost for the SMEs in the country.

Rajan Anandan, managing director and vice president, sales and operations, Google India said that small and medium business are not ready to go online generally because they find it difficult to begin and maintain their websites. He explained that Google will offer easier solutions for the websites.

Google said that the service will be offered for free in the first year then the companies participating will have to pay a nominal fee, which will depend on the package chosen by them. The company did not announce how much will be charged after the first year.

The SME’s who are interested in progamme would need to submit their PAN (permanent account number) and other tax-related details for verification. The company will then give an online tool for a free Website and Web hosting service for one year.

"While India is home to an estimated eight million small and medium businesses, only about five per cent have a Website. This programme is designed to bridge the information gap that exists online due to the lack of presence of local Indian businesses on the Internet," Anandan added.