Desi Networks LLC, in a press released announced they won a private auction, held by Innovative Auctions on August 13, 2013, it is now the sole applicant for the .desi gTLD.

Other applicant in the private auction for .Desi was Afilias.

The company will now move forward uncontested with the ICANN process with a target launch date sometime in the first half of 2014.

According to the application of Desi Networks, LLC the new gTLD:

“The term DESI refers to the people, culture and products from the Indian subcontinent.”

“It includes peoples of similar origin across the globe and constitutes 24% of the world population.

“The term is used by the Diaspora to connote an origin or a connection with the DESI regions.”

“DOT DESI is intended to benefit a global network by providing a designated, secure namespace for cultures, people and businesses of the DESI countries in the Indian subcontinent and its widespread Diaspora. DESI countries include India, Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. There are large active and growing populations in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, South Africa, Australia, Singapore, Mauritius and other countries.”

The mission for .desi is to connect individuals, businesses and charities globally.

Promoting desi culture, catering to the desi diaspora and impacting emerging markets within the Indian Subcontinent are the primary objectives. .desi provides a meaningful alternative to existing gTLD choices and allows for differentiation.”

“It is a tremendous honor to be able to bring our vision for .desi to reality”, said Ravin Ohri, CEO. “We believe that the .desi gTLD will provide a meaningful alternative to a rapidly growing and underserved market.” The .desi gTLD is an open generic domain and will be available to anyone.”

“.desi will use the KSregistry system of Key-Systems as technical framework.”