Microsoft has adopted a three-pronged approach to tackle the problem of software piracy, which accounted for losses of $48 billion globally in 2007.
Microsoft's approach comprises education, engineering and enforcement. "Our endeavour is to work with customers, businesses and partners to drive awareness of piracy as an issue, and to educate them on how they can work on minimising this menace. Access to original software is one of the most critical elements to reduce piracy in India and we have taken the initiative to provide original software online and telephonically," Mr Vipul Sant, Director of Microsoft India, stated in response to a questionnaire from Business Line.
According to him, India lost over $2 billion in 2007 to software piracy, a substantial increase from $367 million in 2003. In India alone, a 10 per cent reduction in software piracy would generate 44,000 jobs, $200 million in tax revenue and $3.1 billion in economic growth.
Microsoft's approach comprises education, engineering and enforcement. "Our endeavour is to work with customers, businesses and partners to drive awareness of piracy as an issue, and to educate them on how they can work on minimising this menace. Access to original software is one of the most critical elements to reduce piracy in India and we have taken the initiative to provide original software online and telephonically," Mr Vipul Sant, Director of Microsoft India, stated in response to a questionnaire from Business Line. 
