WikiConference India 2025/City Selection/Interests


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This is the page used by different communities to show interest in hosting WCI25 in their respective city. The full process and final decision is listed at WikiConference India 2025/City Selection.

The following discussion is closed. Please do not modify it. Subsequent comments should be made on the appropriate discussion page. No further edits should be made to this discussion.



Kochi

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Rough Plan

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A rough plan about the place as follows

Abstract/description

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Kochi Skyline

Wikimedians of Kerala proposes to organise Wiki Conference India 2025 in Kochi. High place of local culture with recognized institutions, high place of tourism, the Kochi region has all the ingredients for a national event like Wiki Conference India 2025.

Wikimedians of Kerala has strengthened its skills in events organisation in recent years, notably with the Malayalam-speaking community on several occasions since 2018 and which has welcomed participants from several areas of India. Wikimedians of Kerala had organised annual conferences in 2018, 2023 and Wiki Sangamotsavam in 2012 to 2016 as Malayalam Wikipedia Community.

In addition to our work within the Wikimedia movement, we have partnered with various FOSS communities in Kerala to organize collaborative events, creating synergies between open-source and open-knowledge enthusiasts. The diverse experiences we have gained through these efforts have strengthened our organizational skills, allowing us to deliver impactful events that bring together people from different regions and expertise.

As volunteers, we are passionate about contributing to the growth of the Wikimedia movement. We dedicate our time and energy to ensure that these events are successful, driven by a shared vision to promote open knowledge, enhance collaboration, and make a lasting impact on the Wikimedia and FOSS communities. Organizing Wiki Conference India 2025 in Kochi would be another opportunity to showcase our commitment and further enrich the Wikimedia movement across India.

We would be particularly honoured and proud to welcome the Wikimedia movement. We really hope to make it an event combining conviviality, inclusiveness and direct impact on the participants and on the technical and cultural ecosystem in Kerala and more widely in India.

About Kochi

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Kochi, often referred to as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea," is a vibrant and historically rich metro city located on the southwestern coast of India in the state of Kerala. Known for its unique blend of traditional and modern cultures, Kochi boasts a rich maritime history that has seen influences from Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial powers, as well as centuries of trade with Arab, Chinese, and Jewish merchants. The city's iconic landmarks, such as Fort Kochi, the Chinese fishing nets, and the historic Mattancherry Palace, reflect this diverse heritage. Today, Kochi is a thriving cosmopolitan hub, renowned for its thriving IT sector (Infopark Kochi), strong FOSS presence[1], diverse culinary scene, dynamic arts community and tourism. Its strategic location along the Arabian Sea and its well-developed infrastructure make Kochi an ideal destination for hosting national and international conferences. The city’s blend of historical charm and modern amenities provides a welcoming atmosphere for an event like the Wiki Conference India, where knowledge-sharing and collaboration can flourish against a backdrop of Kerala's scenic beauty and cultural vibrancy.

Facilities

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The Kochi area offers a wide range of possibilities to host an event like Wiki Conference India. The region is very well served with metro lines, train lines and bus routes that allow you to move around very easily. We have the world's first fully solar powered airport near the city.[2]

Kochi bagged the city with most sustainable transport system award instituted by the Union ministry of housing and urban affairs in 2021.[3] Kochi became the only city in the country to have water metro system along with the metro rail system after the inauguration of Kochi Water Metro. It is the first water metro system in India and the first integrated water transport system of this size in Asia. [4] [5]

Also Kochi has very low traffic jams compared to other urban metro cities in India.

Venue Options

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Hotel Location Website Rooms Halls Distance from Airport / Travel Time Image Remarks
Kochi Marriott Hotel Coordinates: 10.02943°, 76.307545° Link 273 11 21.3 km/

~39 min

Connectivity via Kochi Metro and Bus from Airport / Hotel near LULU Mall. Hosted Train The Trainer 2023
Four Points by Sheraton Coordinates: 10.007394°, 76.362678° Link 218 3 27.3 km/

~51 min

Connectivity via Kochi Metro and Bus from Airport / Hotel near Infopark Kochi / Hosted Debconf 23
Vivanta by Taj, Marine drive Kochi Coordinates: 9°, 58° Link 108 3 28.8 km/ ~55min
Vivanta by Taj Hotel, Marine drive, Kochi
Connectivity via Kochi Metro and Bus / 96 rooms with full or partial scenic views of the backwater
Crowne Plaza Kochi Coordinates: 9°, 56° Link 269 14 32.1 km/ ~41min
Crown plaza
Connectivity via Kochi Metro and Bus
Le Méridien Kochi Coordinates: 9.933891°, 76.316558° Link 223 12 31.3 km/

54 min

Connectivity via Kochi Metro and Bus
Hotel Airlink Castle and Diana Heights Coordinates: 10.155048°, 76.354645° Link 54+55 3 4.3 km/

6 min

- Very near to Airport

Travel

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Cochin International Airport (COK) not only offers excellent connectivity to major cities across India—such as Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Delhi, and Pune—but is also renowned for its pioneering environmental initiatives.[6][7]. As the world's first fully solar-powered airport, COK has set a global benchmark in sustainable aviation. The airport’s solar power plant, which generates over 40 megawatts of power, allows it to operate entirely on clean energy, significantly reducing its carbon footprint. This green initiative is a critical step toward reducing carbon emissions in the aviation industry, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change. The airport’s achievement earned it prestigious recognition, including the 'Champion of the Earth' award from the United Nations.

Rail

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Ernakulam Junction Railway station [8] and Ernakulam Town Railway Station[9] are also very well connected with trains from all over India.

Road

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The city has excellent road connectivity with neighbouring states, with regular bus services available from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and various private operators provide reliable and frequent services, connecting Kochi to major cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, Coimbatore, Mysuru, Madurai, and Hyderabad.

Water

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Kochi Water Metro connects Kochi with all the near by Islands through water. Also Kerala State Water Transport Department (SWTD) operates numerous boats to connect other local hubs with Kochi. This contributes to reduced traffic congestion in the city.

Local Transport

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Kochi offers a variety of local transportation options. Kerala govt operated buses and private buses are playing in the city.[10] Kochi metro integrated with Kochi Water metro offers excellent connectivity to key local hubs in Kochi. Kochi metro also offers feeder buses from airport and near by mobility hubs. These ensure easy and affordable travel within the city. Ola, Uber cabs are available 24x7 in Kochi.

Services

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As a famous tourism destination, Kochi and its area offer all facilities such as: hospitals, shops (Largest shopping mall in Asia - Lulu Mall), transportation services (Kochi Metro, Kochi Water Metro), police, and cultural sites(Fort Kochi, Muziris). The whole region is perfectly covered by the internet and 5G (Landing point of international underwater internet cable in India (SeaMeWe-3, SAFE and KLI-SOFC)[11].

Safety + Security

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Kochi is one of the safest places in India with the best police functions. [12]

There is no problem about freedom of expression for such an event in Kochi. Law enforcement protects the rights and safety of minorities and the population is progressive specially in urban areas. LGBTQ+ people and people of color are welcome. This is because of better upbringing, higher literacy rates and stronger law enforcement in the area.

Time

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September is an ideal time to organise Wiki Conference India 2025 in Kochi, Kerala, as the region enjoys pleasant weather and a festive atmosphere. In 2025, this timing becomes even more significant with Onam, the grand state festival of Kerala, having just concluded. Onam, celebrated with vibrant cultural events, traditional art forms, and grand feasts, offers a unique glimpse into Kerala's rich heritage and nature.

Weather

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September in Kochi is almost the off monsoon season. The rainfall and humidity levels are gradually decreasing. The temperature in September ranges between approximately 24.2C to 27.9C, providing a pleasant environment. The weather in Kochi in September is suitable for travelers.[13]

Past Events

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Members of the user group have also played a significant role in supporting the organising teams of previous major Wikimedia events, including WikiConference India 2023, Wikimania 2024, WikiConference India 2016, WikiConference India 2011.

Additional

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We are thinking about organising special tours for Wikimedians in collaboration with the Tourism Department of Kerala [14] and Muziris heritage[15]. More generally, we want that Wikimedians who do not know each other but share a common interest could have a valuable place and time to exchange and experience together.

We're excited to plan tours focused on various themes, including museum and heritage tours, nature and biodiversity walks, backwater boat trips, and cultural experiences. Our itinerary can include highlights like Athirappilly Waterfalls, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary , Mattancherry Palace, Fort Kochi, Hill Palace Museum, Muziris and Vembanad Lake.

Wikimedians and Groups willing to support the conference

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Groups

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Wikimedians

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  1. --Tonynirappathu (talk) 14:11, 20 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  2. --Vijayanrajapuram (talk) 04:57, 21 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  3. --Ranjithsiji (talk) 07:03, 21 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  4. --literaryDP (talk) 09:03, 21 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  5. --Vis M (talk) 04:08, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  6. --Kannan Shanmugam (talk) 04:13, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  7. --Akhilan (talk) 04:30, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  8. --Irshadpp (talk) 05:02, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  9. Support Support - As a Wikimedian since 2009, I have been actively involved in building our community and organizing various thematic gatherings and projects. Though I shifted my focus to other FOSS initiatives for a period, the dedicated efforts of the Wikimedians of Kerala User Group reignited my interest in the Wikimedia ecosystem. I actively participated in WikiConference India events held in Mumbai in 2011 and Chandigarh in 2016. I am pleased to endorse the current bid team, who demonstrate both the experience and commitment needed to organize WikiConference Kerala and the Train the Trainers Program. I'm grateful to the Kerala User Group for bringing me back into the ecosystem, and I am committed to strengthening connections with similar Open Knowledge initiatives in our region.--Manojk (talk) 05:28, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  10. --Jameela P. (talk) 12:31, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  11. --Subins2000 (talk) 12:57, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  12. --Athulvis (talk) 14:25, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  13. --SijiR (talk) 15:43, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  14. -- Strong Support as this is a community intiative --naveenpf (talk) 16:10, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  15. --Mujeebcpy (talk) 16:31, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  16. -- Balasankarc (talk) 17:31, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  17. --Iamvivekkj (talk) 17:53, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  18. --Irvin calicut (talk) 17:56, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  19. --Adithyak1997 (talk) 17:58, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  20. -- Sreejithkoiloth (talk) 18:01, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  21. --Rojypala (talk) 18:42, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  22. --Sneha Forestry (talk) 04:49, 23 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  23. --Varghesepunnamada (talk) 18:55, 23 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  24. -- Jaisuvyas (talk) 14:07, 23 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  25. -- Josephjose07 (talk) 20:27, 23 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  26. --shajiarikkad Shajiarikkad (talk) 17:13, 23 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  27. -- Dharwishr (talk) 08:20, 24 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  28. -- arkarjun (talk) 12:59, 24 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  29. Meenakshi nandhini (talk) 15:41, 25 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  30. -- Ambadyanands (talk) 19:30, 25 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  31. --Vysakh Premkumar (talk) 04:32, 26 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  32. -- Rrrrrrmb (talk) 14:24, 26 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  33. ~~ Supporting the community's initiative to host this big event in Kochi as there are many opportunities to gather, organise and bring together many Open Knowledge individuals and organisations in large scale. Bhuvana Meenakshi (talk) 15:17, 26 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  34. Shyamal (talk) I think this is just as good as Bangalore (except for Bangaloreans for whom the transport options to Kochi, esp. by road or train are a bit choked up) and it seems to have a more vibrant number of Wikipedians willing to put in their time (and hope I can too). Shyamal (talk) 07:22, 27 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  35. Support Support - As a committed member of the Wikimedians of Kerala UG, I am delighted to witness the enthusiastic participation of the dedicated community members over here, who volunteer their valuable time to share their support. Their efforts in discussing with the communities and supporting the bid to host WCI 2025 in Kochi truly reflect the collective passion and vision of our community to nurture collaboration and knowledge sharing. Kochi, known for its cultural diversity and spirit of innovation, offers the perfect destination to bring together Wikimedia contributors and other FOSS communities from across the country. I wholeheartedly endorse this bid, confident that the unwavering dedication and enthusiasm of our community will ensure this event becomes a landmark occasion in advancing the mission of Wikimedia in India.-❙❚❚❙❙ GnOeee ❚❙❚❙❙ 15:00, 27 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  36. Strong support Strong support. Great initiative --Shagil Kannur (talk) 18:37, 27 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  37. Support Support--Sugeesh (talk) 09:38, 28 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  38. Support Shreya (talk) 14:56, 30 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  39. Support Support -- Suyash Dwivedi (talk) 14:58, 30 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  40. Support Support Netha Hussain (talk) 08:37, 2 November 2024 (UTC)[reply]
Endorsement/Opinion
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Discussion

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Discussion about Kochi will happen on talk page

Bengaluru

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Rough Plan

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Bengaluru (also known as Bangalore), India's vibrant technology hub and a melting pot of cultures, is an ideal location to host WikiConference India 2025. With Wikimedians across languages and projects, support of the administrative team of CIS and local free knowledge enthusiasts complemented by excellent infrastructure Bengaluru offers a dynamic setting for collaboration and knowledge sharing within the Indian Wikimedia movement.

About Bengaluru

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Bengaluru, often called the "Silicon Valley of India," is a cosmopolitan city known for its technological prowess, rich history, and diverse cultural landscape. From the majestic Bangalore Palace to the serene Lalbagh Botanical Garden, the city offers a blend of historical charm and modern dynamism. Bengaluru is also a major center for arts, culture, and education, making it an ideal location to foster the growth and development of Wikimedia projects.

Facilities

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Bengaluru has world-class infrastructure, including a modern international airport, extensive rail network, and widespread public transportation system. The city offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit diverse needs and budgets, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for all attendees.

Venue Options (indicative list)
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Hotel Location Website Rooms Halls Distance from Airport / Travel Time Remarks
Lalit Ashok, High Grounds, Bengaluru Kumara Krupa High Grounds Bengaluru

International Airport 32 Kms / 45 Minutes

Domestic Airport 35 Kms / 60 Minutes

City Centre 5.1 Kms / 18 Minutes

Railway Station 3 Kms / 4 Minutes

Link 186 5 35 km / 1 hour Luxurious accommodations, spacious conference facilities
ITC Gardenia, a Luxury Collection Hotel Residency Road, Bengaluru Link 292 7 45 km / 1 hour 15 minutes Elegant ambiance, multiple conference halls, fine dining
Fairfield by Marriott, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru Rajajinagar, Bengaluru Link 148 5 35 km / 1 hour 30 minutes Iconic hotel, centrally located, state-of-the-art conference facilities
Shangri-La Hotel, Bengaluru Near Railway Station Link 397 6 40 km / 1 hour 30 minutes Modern hotel, spacious conference halls, rooftop pool
The Ritz-Carlton, Bengaluru Near Bus Station Link 277 8 45 km / 1 hour 45 minutes Luxurious hotel, elegant conference spaces, exceptional service
JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru Near Bus Station Link 281 5 40 km / 1 hour 30 minutes Contemporary hotel, multiple conference halls, spa
Hyatt Centric Hebbal/MG Road Link 152 7 26 km/45 min Contemporary hotel, multiple conference halls, spa

Travel

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  • Air Connectivity: Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) offers numerous direct domestic and international flights, ensuring easy access for attendees from across India and the globe. This direct connectivity will significantly reduce travel time and costs for participants.
  • Rail Connectivity: Bengaluru is well-connected to major cities across India through an extensive rail network. The centrally located Bangalore City Railway Station and Yesvantpur Junction provide convenient access to various parts of the city.
  • Road Connectivity: An extensive network of roads and highways connects Bengaluru to other major cities in South India. The Kempegowda Bus Station (Majestic) is a major transportation hub with frequent bus services to various destinations.
  • Local Transport: Bengaluru offers a variety of local transportation options, including the metro, buses, and taxis, ensuring easy and affordable travel within the city.

Services

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Bengaluru offers all the necessary amenities and services for a successful conference, including hospitals, banks, shopping malls, and a vibrant culinary scene. The city is also a major center for technology and innovation, providing access to cutting-edge resources and expertise.

Safety and Security

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Bengaluru is a safe and welcoming city with a cosmopolitan outlook. The city has a strong police presence and a low crime rate, ensuring a secure environment for all attendees.

Time

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September is an ideal time to visit Bengaluru, as the weather is pleasant and the city is abuzz with activity. The monsoon season would have just ended, leaving behind lush greenery and a refreshing atmosphere.

Past Events

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The A2K team has a proven track record of organizing successful events and contributing to Wikimedia projects. They have actively participated in previous WikiConference India events and have organized numerous workshops and meetups to promote Wikimedia initiatives.

Additional

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We plan to organize cultural programs and city tours to showcase the rich heritage and diversity of Bangalore. We will also collaborate with local institutions and FOSS organisations to provide attendees with opportunities to engage with the city's vibrant cultural and intellectual scene.

Why Bengaluru?

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  • Strategic Location: Bengaluru central location in South India and excellent connectivity make it easily accessible for attendees from across the country and abroad.
  • Excellent Infrastructure: The city boasts world-class infrastructure, including modern conference facilities, comfortable accommodations, and efficient transportation networks.
  • Thriving Tech Hub: As a major technology hub, Bengaluru offers a stimulating environment for discussions on Wikimedia projects and initiatives.
  • Collaboration with Wikimedians: The active local Wikimedians can provide invaluable support and contribute to the success of the conference.

By hosting WikiConference India 2025 in Bengaluru, we can ensure a well-attended, accessible, and memorable event that fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing within the Indian Wikimedian community.

Wikimedians and Groups willing to support the conference

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Groups

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Wikimedians

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  1. Gopala Krishna A (talk) 04:20, 23 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  2. Shyamal (talk) 07:17, 27 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
Endorsement/Opinion
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  1. Strong Oppose. Surprised to see a city bid from CIS A2K. While the formation of CIS A2K, there was commitment CIS A2K will support community initiatives. Not seeing that in this case. CIS A2K should start monthly meetup in Bangalore. Judges should be evaluating what happened to the most active community in Wikipedia - Bangalore community w: Wikipedia:Meetup/Bangalore -- naveenpf (talk) 16:19, 22 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
@Naveenpf: Naveen - are you saying that folks in Bangalore should not support this because CIS did not support the community living there? I am not sure CIS is to blame, the pan-Indian political polarization and the general break up of the group should perhaps be examined. After all the community was quite active a long time before CIS and all we had to do was to meet up at a public eatery! Happy to take up this conversation elsewhere... Shyamal (talk) 07:30, 27 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  1. Strong support Strong support I strongly believe that Bengaluru should be the host of WikiConference India 2025, especially because CIS-A2K has agreed to work closely with local Wikimedians. Through various kinds of initiatives, CIS-A2K has fostered community growth and leadership, which I have personally witnessed as a Kannada Wikimedian. Their involvement in planning initiatives such as Wiki Train the Trainer and Wiki Technical Training proves their dedication to building capacity within our communities. The Kannada Wikimedia community will benefit from this event, which will also unite Wikimedians from other Bangalore-based language communities. All language communities can gain from collaborative leadership and shared resources because of CIS-A2K's participation, which demonstrates their continued support for community-driven initiatives. Their collaborative plan for organising WikiConference India 2025 with regional Wikimedians demonstrates the inclusiveness and collective responsibility that lies at the foundation of our movement. By bringing together contributors from all backgrounds, the event will provide an opportunity for collaborative learning and the development of a stronger Wikimedia community. With the help of the many language communities in Bengaluru and the expertise of CIS-A2K, I think this event will have a long-lasting, beneficial effect on Wikimedia's outreach across India. I strongly endorse this proposal since it's a fantastic chance for all of us. --Gopala Krishna A (talk) 05:01, 23 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  2. Strong support Strong support ಮಹಾವೀರ ಇಂದ್ರ- Mahaveer Indra (talk) 08:15, 23 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  3. Strong support Strong support Prajna gopal (talk) 08:19, 23 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  4. Strong support Strong support --Kavitha G. Kana (talk) 14:32, 23 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  5. Strong support Strong support--Hariprasad Shetty10 (talk) 03:43, 24 October 2024 (UTC)I wholeheartedly believe that Bengaluru would be the perfect host for WikiConference India 2025, and I fully support this idea with enthusiasm.[reply]
  6. Strong support Strong support--Bengaluru is perfect host for WikiConference India 2025, I fully support this idea with enthusiasm.--Kishore Kumar Rai (talk) 15:02, 24 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  7. Strong support Strong support--Vinoda mamatharai (talk) 03:39, 25 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  8. Strong support--Pragathi. BH (talk) 06:29, 25 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]
  9. Support - should be fairly easy to organize events in a city like Bangalore - though hopefully not in the busy city centre. Note: I also support Kochi! Shyamal (talk) 07:17, 27 October 2024 (UTC)[reply]

Discussion

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Discussion about any cities will happen on talk page

Notes

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The above discussion is preserved as an archive. Please do not modify it. Subsequent comments should be made in a new section.