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Category: iWorld

  • Business Today Summit honours top banks at Gujarat’s GIFT City

    Business Today Summit honours top banks at Gujarat’s GIFT City

    Mumbai: The Business Today Banking & Economy Summit and BT Best Banks Awards, held at GIFT City in Gandhinagar on 22 March, celebrated India’s financial prowess. This year’s theme was “Indian Banking: Bigger. Bolder. Boundless,” and the event attracted a formidable assembly of industry titans, policymakers, and innovators, who discussed key trends and issues shaping the banking and financial sector.

    At the event, the BT Best Banks Awards recognised and celebrated the leaders of the financial world, showcasing their resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Nitin Gadkari, union minister for road transport and highways and Bhupendra Patel, chief minister of Gujarat, were present at the event and unveiled a Special Issue of Business Today on India’s Best Banks.

    This year, the Bank of the Year saw joint winners, with ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank clinching the title. Veteran banker Uday Kotak, founder & non-executive director of Kotak Mahindra Bank, was bestowed with the Lifetime Achievement Award. The list of winners in other categories included names such as HDFC Bank, Bank of Maharashtra, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Karur Vysya Bank, J P Morgan, Ujjivan Small Finance Bank, Bajaj Finance, Mahindra Finance and Razorpay, among others.

    At the summit, Union minister Gadkari highlighted the unprecedented opportunity presented by infrastructure investment trust (InvIT) bonds. He emphasised their potential to empower ordinary citizens to partake in the nation’s rapid infrastructure development while reaping substantial returns on their investments. “I don’t say this openly, but I have decided that I [will] now make roads with money collected from poor countrymen,” he said, adding that he often encouraged peons, police constables or labourers to invest in InvIT bonds. “I assure you of 8.05 per cent annual interest.”

    Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel credited the banking turnaround to PM Modi’s policies, while Dr Arvind Panagariya, Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission of India, batted for the privatisation of public sector banks once the General Elections are over. Ashishkumar Chauhan, MD & CEO of NSE, said that the regulatory framework of GIFT City, especially those related to the speed of execution, must be benchmarked to similar special zones in Hong Kong, Dubai, Singapore or London, while Kalyanaraman Rajaraman, Chairperson of the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), said a green finance ecosystem has been put in place at Gift City. Bestselling author Chetan Bhagat said that GIFT City, with proper reforms, can become a financial nerve centre just like Hong Kong, Dubai, or Singapore.

    To decide on the winners of the awards, the 28th edition of the BT-KPMG Best Banks and NBFCs Survey identified those institutions that weathered all storms in 2022-23, innovated both in products and services, nurtured talent and leveraged the strengths of fintech or technology partners to prepare for the future. The survey employed a comprehensive blend of quantitative and qualitative metrics to assess the performance of banks, fintech companies, and large NBFCs, that were included from this edition.

    While six of the awards are quantitative ones based on a rigorous evaluation of 35-plus business parameters of banks and NBFCs for FY23, the other 10 categories were decided by a high-profile jury headed by Anand Kumar Sinha, former deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of India. The other members of the jury were Ashishkumar Chauhan, MD & CEO, NSE; Ranu Vohra, Co-founder & Executive Vice Chairman, Avendus; Pallav Mohapatra, MD & CEO, Arcil; N.S. Kannan, former ED, ICICI Bank; and Rajiv Kaul, Executive Vice Chairman & CEO, CMS Info Systems. A total of 17 winners were picked.

    Here’s the complete list of winners in the BT-KPMG Best Banks & NBFCs Survey 2022-23:

    Jury Awards

    Bank of the Year: HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank (Joint Winners)
    Lifetime Achievement Award: Uday Kotak, Founder & Non-executive Director, Kotak Mahindra Bank
    Best Bank in Innovation: Ujjivan Small Finance Bank
    Best Bank in Talent and Workforce: Kotak Mahindra Bank
    Best Bank in Fintech Initiative: Federal Bank
    Best NBFC in Innovation: Tata Capital
    Best NBFC in Talent and Workforce: Mahindra Finance
    Best Fintech in Payments: Razorpay
    Best Fintech in Value-Added Services: Perfios Software Solutions
    Best Fintech in Lending: Lendingkart
    BT-KPMG Quantitative Awards
    Best Large Indian Bank: HDFC Bank
    Best Mid-sized Indian Bank: Bank of Maharashtra
    Best Small Indian Bank: Karur Vysya Bank
    Best Large Foreign Bank: J P Morgan
    Best Small Finance Bank: Ujjivan Small Finance Bank
    Best Large NBFC: Bajaj Finance Ltd

  • Crunchyroll to add fan-favourite anime “Dragon Ball Super”

    Crunchyroll to add fan-favourite anime “Dragon Ball Super”

    Mumbai: Crunchyroll, the ultimate home for anime worldwide, is bringing one of the most followed anime Dragon Ball Super to India. Starting 29 March 2024 Indian anime fans can watch the series on Crunchyroll. All 131 episodes of Dragon Ball Super will be available in English dubs and subs.

    The Dragon Ball phenomenon began in 1984 when Japan’s well-known manga from the beloved late Akira Toriyama premiered in Shueisha’s “Weekly Shonen Jump” – becoming a top-ranked title throughout its ten and a half years of publication.

    The Dragon Ball Super English voice cast includes Sean Schemmel as Goku, Christopher R. Sabat as Piccolo and Vegeta, Matthew Mercer as Hit and David Gray as Zamasu.

    Dragon Ball Super synopsis:

    The threat of Majin Buu has passed, and Goku and friends are all living in peace. The day of Bulma’s birthday party arrives, and everyone gets together again for the first time in a while. Then there appears Beerus, the universe’s god who oversees destruction. Goku gets his friends’ help to become the legendary Super Saiyan God, and gets into a fierce fight with Beerus, but he’s not quite as powerful as the God of Destruction. Beerus ends the fight and informs Goku of a shocking fact. This universe where Goku and crew live is only one of a total of twelve universes. What’s more, each universe has its own God of Destruction, which means there might be opponents out there even stronger than Beerus! Having caught a glimpse of hitherto unknown strength, Goku goes along with Vegeta to train under Whis. During this time, forces of evil come to attack Earth enmasse. Leading them is none other than Frieza, the emperor of the universe, and he’s acquired a new transformation!! To face him, Goku changes into his own new form, Super Saiyan God Super Saiyan. A fierce battle once again commences!!

    And then…

    The story finally moves beyond the universe, into a new phase! Now the world of Dragon Ball will reach a new dimension that’s beyond imagination!!

  • The Art of Making the Global Market Local Through Screens

    The Art of Making the Global Market Local Through Screens

    In an age where the world’s financial markets are just a click away, the allure of Forex trading has never been stronger, especially among Indian investors. The landscape of investment is shifting, with digitization fueling the accessibility to global currency exchange markets. Gone are the days when trading was an elusive arena, reserved only for the elites or those with a plethora of financial knowledge. The digital revolution, particularly through online trading platforms, is dismantling barriers and democratizing financial markets like never before.

    The evolution of trading platforms

    Online trading platforms have been transformative, to say the least. They’ve revolutionized how people engage with financial markets, making it possible to trade from any corner of the globe, provided you have internet access. With the incorporation of a wide array of trading instruments, including currency pairs, precious metals and Contracts for Difference (CFDs) , these platforms cater to a diverse group of traders, from novices to seasoned professionals. One of their most influential advancements is perhaps the democratization of educational resources, making trading knowledge more accessible and empowering users to make informed decisions.

    The accessibility and user empowerment provided by trading platforms has expanded the spectrum of who can participate in ***forex trading***. With features like demo accounts, prospective traders can now practice and hone their skills without risking real capital. This hands-on approach to learning has significantly reduced the entry barriers, attracting a wider pool of individuals interested in navigating the vast sea of forex trading possibilities.

    Television’s impactful narrative

    Amidst this technological revolution, the role of television in shaping the financial aspirations of the Indian populace remains significant. Television has not only introduced the concept of trading to the masses but has also served as a bridge, connecting viewers with the dynamic world of financial markets. From showcasing documentaries on global economies to delivering the latest market trends, television has played a crucial role in demystifying forex trading and making it more approachable for the layman. Moreover, success stories of individuals, who journeyed from mere viewers to successful traders, continue to inspire many to explore the possibilities within the trading domain.

    Furthermore, television has created an environment where the once complex notions of trading are now delivered in bite-sized, digestible pieces of information. Financial experts and anchors dissect market trends and strategies during prime-time shows, making the high-stakes world of forex trading more understandable and less intimidating to the everyday viewer, thereby nurturing a new generation of financially literate and savvy traders.

    Catalysts driving Indians towards forex and CFD trading

    The rising inclination towards forex and CFD trading among Indians can be attributed to several factors. The appeal of tapping into global markets, the allure of potential high returns and the sheer excitement of trading are significant draws. Besides, anecdotal evidence and real-life success stories have made forex trading an aspirational activity, promising not just returns but a sense of financial empowerment and independence. However, while the benefits are plentiful, the risks associated with trading are also significant. It’s crucial for traders, especially newcomers, to approach the market with caution and educate themselves thoroughly before diving in. Utilizing a pip calculator can be an effective way for traders to manage their risk and understand the potential impact of each trade.

    How digital advancements bridge the global divide

    Technology, particularly the widespread use of smartphones and the internet, has been central in making trading accessible to a broader audience. These tools have not only simplified the process of trading but have also ensured that anyone with a smartphone and an internet connection can participate in the global financial markets. Moreover, the emphasis on user-friendly interfaces, coupled with robust security measures, has built a trustable ecosystem for online traders. Regulations play a critical role here, ensuring that platforms operate within a framework that protects the interest of traders, fostering a safer trading environment.

    The shifting narrative through television

    Television has considerably influenced the rising popularity of trading in India. Financial products and trading platforms are increasingly becoming a staple in TV advertisements, reflecting a growing interest among the general population. Moreover, the shift from a savings-centric mindset to an investment-oriented approach among Indian households signifies a profound cultural shift. Television, with its wide reach and impact, has been instrumental in this transition, educating viewers about the benefits and risks of forex trading and in many cases, catalyzing their journey into the world of trading.

    Closing remarks

    At this brink of a new era, it’s evident that the convergence of online trading platforms and television has paved the way for a financial revolution in India. This blend of technology and media has not only made global markets more accessible but also transformed trading into a more approachable and engaging activity. The future for forex trading in the country looks promising, with technological advancements and cultural shifts pointing towards an era of financial empowerment and independence for the masses. However, the journey doesn’t end here; aspiring traders must engage in responsible trading, armed with continuous learning and a thorough understanding of the market dynamics, to navigate the volatile waters of the global financial markets successfully.    
     

  • “At SociallKnot, we understand that every client is unique, with distinct needs and goals”: Shweta Tanwar Mukherjee

    “At SociallKnot, we understand that every client is unique, with distinct needs and goals”: Shweta Tanwar Mukherjee

    Mumbai: Engaging content is essential for capturing and retaining audience attention. SociallKnot crafts interactive content strategies that resonate with the target demographic, driving meaningful interactions and conversations.

    The agency specializes in offering a wide range of services customized to meet each client’s unique vision and goals.

    In today’s fragmented media landscape, maintaining consistent messaging across various channels is paramount. By synchronizing efforts across social media, traditional media, and other touchpoints, the agency ensures a unified brand experience that resonates with consumers wherever they may be.

    Indiantelevision.com reached out to SociallKnot’s partner/head – social media, content & PR Shweta Tanwar Mukherjee, where she briefed upon the agency’s roles in creating strategies for content and more…

    Edited excerpts

    On SociallKnot setting apart from other agencies in the industry

    At SociallKnot, we pride ourselves on being an Integrated Marketing & Social Media Agency based in Gurgaon. What sets us apart is our relentless dedication to tying together the challenges hindering your business growth and crafting the perfect knot of Experiential Marketing, Content, and Strategy. Our mission is to deliver top-tier marketing solutions to businesses of any size, organisation, or cause. We specialise in providing timely and scalable solutions for your marketing challenges, enhancing your brand value along the way.

    On SociallKnot’s approach to integrated marketing and social media strategies helping businesses overcome their growth challenges

    Our approach at SociallKnot towards integrated marketing and social media strategies is rooted in understanding and addressing the unique growth challenges faced by businesses. We combine creative experiential marketing solutions, concept-based events, and pragmatic Go-To-Market strategies to empower brands to reach their full potential.

    On some examples of successful experiential marketing campaigns or events that SociallKnot has executed in the past

    Ans. Over the years, SociallKnot has executed numerous successful experiential marketing campaigns and events. From immersive brand experiences to engaging activations, we’ve helped our clients leave a lasting impact on their target audience. Our focus remains on creating memorable experiences that resonate with consumers and drive brand affinity.

    On SociallKnot ensuring that its marketing solutions are tailored to the specific needs and goals of each client

    Ans. At SociallKnot, we understand that every client is unique, with distinct needs and goals. That’s why we ensure that our marketing solutions are tailored precisely to meet those specific requirements. We take the time to thoroughly understand your business objectives, target audience, and market dynamics, allowing us to develop customized strategies that deliver tangible results.

    On SociallKnot aiming to boost brand visibility and integrity for its clients, and what metrics do you use to measure success

    Our primary goal at SociallKnot is to boost brand visibility and integrity for our clients through innovative marketing strategies. We achieve this by developing insightful, creative, and unique ideas that effectively convey your brand message. Additionally, we curate quality content that resonates with your audience and adopts your brand voice, ensuring consistency across all channels. To measure success, we utilize a range of metrics, including brand awareness, engagement rates, lead generation, and ultimately, ROI.

    Last one, we will also work very diligently on receiving feedback from the clients from our target audience when we do an event so we understand if we are doing it in a particular market or an area we do you know do a little bit in terms of research R & D and generate some data through sampling and all okay how was the event received by the audience if it’s an activity in some specific area so we do a post activity survey kind of a thing you know to understand what surveys they do to gather feedback on R&D efforts and digital feedback forms. Our focus is not solely on social media metrics like leads and engagement, but also on on-ground activities. We use feedback to enhance our learnings.

  • BollywoodLife.com Awards 2024 set to dazzle on 27 March 2024

    BollywoodLife.com Awards 2024 set to dazzle on 27 March 2024

    Mumbai: The stage is set, the spotlight is ready, and the excitement is palpable as IndiaDotcom Digital Pvt Ltd announced the much-awaited return of the BollywoodLife.com Awards for its fifth season. Scheduled to take place on 27 March 2024, this star-studded virtual event promises to be a night to remember, celebrating the best and brightest talents across Bollywood, television, OTT, and social media.

    For four glorious seasons, the BollywoodLife.com Awards has been a beacon of excellence, honouring outstanding achievements and innovative contributions to the entertainment industry. From gripping performances to engaging content, the awards recognize the incredible talents that fuel the magic of entertainment.

    The BollywoodLife.com Awards 2024 will begin at 5 pm onwards, featuring compelling panel discussions delving into pertinent topics like the relevance of reality TV shows and the pitfalls of box office obsession. These discussions promise to provide invaluable perspectives on the evolving entertainment landscape, shedding light on both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

    The Bollywood Awards encompass a wide array of prestigious categories, including Best Film, Actor, Actress, and Director, as well as recognition for Supporting Actors, Playback Singers, and Debut Performances. In the realm of television, accolades extend to Best Popular TV Diva and Dude, Best Social Media TV Couple, and honours for outstanding actors, actresses, and reality show stars. The Social Media Awards celebrate influential figures with titles such as Social Media King and Queen while acknowledging content creators, comedians, and lifestyle, fashion, beauty, and fitness bloggers. Additionally, the OTT Awards highlight excellence in Hindi cinema, web series, and youth-oriented programming, featuring categories like Best Film, Actor, and Actress, alongside recognition for breakthrough performances and supporting roles.

    This year’s awards ceremony is poised to elevate the entertainment experience with a distinguished panel of jury members hailing from the Indian film and TV fraternity. Renowned figures such as Seema Pahwa, Ram Madhvani, Dibyendu Bhattacharya, Palki Malhotra, and Anand Pandit bring their wealth of expertise and insights to ensure that the most deserving talents across various categories are recognized and celebrated.

    One of the hallmarks of the BollywoodLife.com Awards is the active participation of fans, who play a pivotal role in the nomination and voting process. From veteran actors to emerging stars, every nominee receives the unwavering support of their fans as they compete for top honours.

    A spokesperson from Bollywoodlife.com, one of the digital assets of IDPL, “The BollywoodLife.com Awards have firmly established itself as a cornerstone of the entertainment calendar, offering a platform that celebrates creativity, innovation, and excellence across diverse mediums. With its comprehensive categories and transparent nomination process, the awards ensure that deserving talents receive the recognition they deserve. What truly sets this platform apart is its focus on community engagement, inviting fans to be an integral part of the celebration through the voting process. Moreover, the addition of thought-provoking panel discussions elevates the awards beyond just a recognition ceremony, fostering a deeper understanding of the industry’s opportunities and challenges.”

    Interestingly, it is also comprised of exclusive masterclasses led by industry experts, providing invaluable guidance and inspiration to aspiring talents looking to make their mark in the entertainment world.

    The season five of the BollywoodLife.com Awards would not have been possible without its partners: OTT Partner – Watcho, PR Partner – Teamology, Special Partner – LIC Housing Finance and Dayanand Sagar University, Powered by – Paytm.

  • Telecom sector harnesses AI for next-gen network optimization

    Telecom sector harnesses AI for next-gen network optimization

    Mumbai: Driven by technological advancement, the dawn of the 21st century has set off a new era of evolution in several industries, including the telecom sector. Hence, the future belongs to those industries which have already put in place advanced technologies like artificial intelligence(AI), machine learning, and data analytics. Among various new-age technologies, AI has gained significant traction and is transforming the telecommunications industry. Thus, with the ability to process and analyse vast amounts of data in real -time, AI has become a game changer for telecom companies.

    To highlight the fact, according to Precedence Research, the global AI in the telecommunication market is witnessing exponential growth, predicted to hit around $42.66 billion by 2033. This substantial expansion is expected to grow at a CAGR of 41.40 per cent between 2024 and 2033, indicating a revolutionary moment for both Communication Service Providers (CSPs) and technology consumers.

    In India, ranging from AI-powered chatbots to AI-facilitated data analysis, AI integration into telecommunications is a significant breakthrough in the industry’s development. As technology progresses rapidly, telecom operators tend to better their networks with AI powered solutions, namely to increase its effectiveness, reliability, and performance. Artificial Intelligence, with its core capabilities, is changing the way telecom networks are maintained and managed, as it enables predictive maintenance and dynamic resource allocation, ushering in a new era of connectivity and innovation.

    Significance of network optimization

    Network optimization in telecom is a crucial procedure, assuring optimal data flow and service reliability in an increasingly connected world. It serves as the backbone for modern telecommunications, meeting the increasing demands. However, with benefits, the telecoms business has numerous issues, the most important of which are managing increased network traffic and preserving service quality in the face of rising data consumption. In this setting, network optimization emerges as a significant answer to these problems. It ensures that consumers receive high-quality, uninterrupted services by effectively managing data traffic and network resources. This method focuses on meeting current demands while proactively planning for future development and technical advancements, making it critical to telecom networks’ resilience and adaptability in the digital age.

    How AI being used in telecom

    Predictive maintenance: AI-powered predictive analytics assists telecoms in providing better services by leveraging data, advanced algorithms, and machine learning approaches to forecast future outcomes based on historical data. This means that operators can utilize data-driven insights to track the status of equipment and predict failure based on patterns. Implementing AI in telecoms enables CSPs to proactively address issues with communications hardware such as cell towers, power lines, data center servers, and even set-top boxes in consumers’ homes.

    Fault detection: Living in an era where fraudulent activities have become increasingly prevalent, implementation of AI in telecom fraud detection has become crucial. AI and machine learning algorithms can detect anomalies in real time, effectively minimizing telecom fraud, such as unauthorized network access and bogus profiles. The system can automatically limit access to the fraudster as soon as suspicious activity is identified, reducing the damage. According to the Communications Fraud Control Association, with a 12 per cent increase in fraud loss reported in 2023, resulting in $38.95 billion loss, AI has emerged as a potent tool in detecting and mitigating frauds.

    Automate optimization and configuration: AI-powered automation solutions streamline networkconfiguration and optimization processes by autonomously adjusting network parameters and settings in response to changing conditions. Through machine learning algorithms, AI systems learn from historical data and network dynamics to optimize configurations for factors like signal coverage, interference mitigation, and load balancing. This automation enhances network efficiency, reduces operational costs, and minimizes human errors.

    Power of AI: Key to success!

    The adoption of AI in India’s telecommunications sector has transformed network optimization strategies, enabling operators to elevate connectivity, reliability, and performance. From predictive maintenance to dynamic resource allocation, AI-driven solutions are fueling unprecedented advancements in network management and maintenance. By harnessing AI’s power, telecom operators can deliver exceptional customer experiences, optimize resource utilization, and stay ahead of evolving market demands in the digital age.

    The article has been authored by Hi-COM founder & director Vikas Sharma.

  • BIG FM returns with BIG BINGO Cricket Season 2 with Irfan Pathan

    BIG FM returns with BIG BINGO Cricket Season 2 with Irfan Pathan

    Mumbai: As cricket fever sweeps the nation with the arrival of T20 cricket series, BIG FM, one of India’s leading radio networks, brings back the second season of BIG BINGO Cricket! After the splendid success of the previous edition, this year, the campaign promises to elevate the excitement with cricket legend Irfan Pathan. With its unique blend of cricket and bingo, former cricketer Irfan Pathan will share real-time analysis of players’ performances, team strategies and overall match dynamics on radio. Whether one is a seasoned cricket fan or new to the game, BIG BINGO Cricket Season 2 offers an unparalleled opportunity for listeners to engage with the sport in an immersive manner!

    Through this campaign, the radio network invites listeners to immerse themselves in the pulsating action of the T20 cricket while also having the opportunity to win incredible prizes with just a click of a button. Users can log onto www.bigfmbingo.com, where they can register and select their tickets for the day’s match. As the series progresses, they will earn points based on the performance of the players listed on their tickets. Adding on, competitors can spin the Spin-The-Wheel every 10 minutes during the match to earn bonus points. At the end of the series, the participant with the highest cumulative score will be crowned tournament champion and receive the megaprize!

    Moreover, taking the victory a notch higher, selected lucky winners will get exciting prizes and a chance to meet the expert of Indian cricket, Irfan Pathan. Following a successful collaboration with Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals, this year, the radio network has also partnered with Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bangalore, enhancing the cricketing experience for fans and offering more opportunities to engage with their favorite teams and players.

    Speaking on the campaign, BIG FM COO Sunil Kumaran added, “Cricket is celebrated like no other sport in our country and this cricketing season, we are thrilled to announce the second edition of BIG BINGO Cricket. Our goal is to connect fans with their favorite sport, enhancing their engagement with every match. With the addition of radio partnership with esteemed cricket teams, we anticipate an atmosphere filled with excitement, offering fans valuable insights from their favorite player Irfan Pathan himself.”

    Giving an immersive experience to the listeners, Irfan Pathan will do a variety of on-air activities, including selective match pre & post-match analysis, sharing anecdotes from his World Cup days and quizzes to challenge listener’s cricketing expertise. Additionally, keen fans can look forward to a fantastic meet & greet and photo op session in Mumbai.

    “Cricket is not just a game, it’s been my greatest teacher, shaping me into who I am. Regardless of winning or losing the match, India’s unwavering support has united the players into a skilled team today. I am excited to join hands with BIG FM. Their integral role in sharing this passion is commendable, they are ensuring that airwaves of cricket reach every corner of the nation. Through BIG BINGO Cricket, I look forward to connecting with cricket lovers once again,” said Irfan Pathan.

    Furthermore, BIG FM RJs will also engage listeners in BIG BINGO Cricket on-air and via BIG FM’s Instagram page.

    Join BIG FM on www.bigfmbingo.com and delve into the exhilarating world of cricket like never before.

  • EazyDiner Foodie Awards joins News9 Plus for culinary honour

    EazyDiner Foodie Awards joins News9 Plus for culinary honour

    Mumbai: EazyDiner Foodie Awards and News9 Plus are delighted to unveil an exclusive collaboration slated for March 23rd at the Grand Hyatt. This milestone partnership marks a significant achievement for both organizations as they unite to honour excellence in the world of food and beverage.

    Recognised as the ‘Oscars of the food and beverage industry,’ the EazyDiner Foodie Awards have earned widespread acclaim for their commitment to celebrating innovation and excellence in gastronomy. With seven successful events hosted across three cities including Mumbai, New Delhi and Bengaluru, these awards have become a beacon of recognition within the industry, revered by food enthusiasts, industry insiders, and social influencers alike.

    “We are delighted to collaborate with EazyDiner Foodie Awards, a platform that resonates with our fervour for celebrating excellence,” said Raktim Das, Chief Growth Officer, TV9 Network. “This collaboration marks a significant stride in offering our viewers an exclusive glimpse into the world of esteemed industry leaders, celebrity chefs, and visionary entrepreneurs,” added Das.

    Furthermore, this partnership introduces ‘Lounge Knights,’ an innovative platform curated by News9 Plus, aimed at cultivating engagement and the exploration of culinary brilliance.

    “EazyDiner Foodie Awards are the biggest restaurant awards voted by the people who dine at these amazing restaurants. Cheers to the creators of delicious experiences! Honouring the artisans of taste, the architects of ambience, and the maestros of culinary delight. Here’s to the hoteliers, restaurateurs, foodies, and the enchanting places they craft, where every bite is a symphony and every meal a masterpiece,” said EazyDiner & Postcard Hotel founder Kapil Chopra.

    EazyDiner co-founder & CEO Sachin Pabreja expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership during this year’s EazyDiner Foodie Awards 2024, stating, “We are thrilled to collaborate with News9 Plus to extend the reach of the EazyDiner Foodie Awards to a broader audience. Our mutual dedication to acknowledging and honouring excellence within the food and beverage industry underscores our commitment. We extend our best wishes to all the nominees and express our gratitude to EazyDiner foodies for their invaluable votes.”

    As News9 Plus and EazyDiner embark on this collaborative journey, both organisations envision a mutually beneficial relationship founded on the shared aspiration of creating an unforgettable experience that celebrates the vibrant culinary landscape and inspires future innovation.

  • What initiatives can fantasy gaming platforms take to promote inclusivity and diversity within their fan communities?

    What initiatives can fantasy gaming platforms take to promote inclusivity and diversity within their fan communities?

    Mumbai: Diversity and inclusion are not merely catchphrases in the vast virtual world of games; they are key factors influencing it. Diversity encompasses a range of human experiences that include gender, colour, culture, and other aspects beyond narratives and characters. Furthermore, by ensuring inclusivity, gaming spaces are made accessible and open to everyone. Thus, the substantial impact of diversity and inclusion on gaming extends to improving game quality and originality while also increasing player pleasure, engagement, and loyalty.

    The goal of creating immersive environments that honour diversity becomes increasingly important as we venture deeper into the domain of fantasy games. Thus, in order to develop immersive worlds that embrace diversity and inclusivity as well as enhance both the gaming experience and the lively communities that inhabit these digital domains, exploring initiatives becomes imperative. According to Mordor Intelligence, with a projected size of $32.75 billion in 2024 and a projected growth rate of 13.83% during the forecast period (2024–2029), the fantasy sports market is predicted to reach $62.58 billion by 2029.

    Here’s a look at the initiatives that can be undertaken to promote inclusivity and diversity within these virtual worlds-

    Know your audience: Finding out who your audience is and what they want is the first step towards promoting diversity and inclusion in the gaming sector. The gaming industry is a complex and dynamic sector that attracts gamers of all ages, genders, races, cultures, talents, tastes, and expectations. You can learn a lot about the requirements, goals, and challenges of your audience by using analytics, feedback, surveys, and research. Equipped with this understanding, you can tailor your games to suit their tastes. Furthermore, you can employ this data as a tool to find and address any biases or gaps in the accessibility, representation, and involvement of your diverse audience.

    Engage and retain a diverse workforce: Seeking and retaining a diverse workforce is the second essential step in improving diversity and inclusion in the gaming industry. The majority of professionals in the field today are white, male, and cisgender, which unintentionally limits the range of viewpoints, creativity, and innovation. Thus, prioritizing the hiring and retention of diverse talent allows for access to a wealth of knowledge, perspectives, and experiences from people with different backgrounds, identities, and specializations. This strategic approach not only benefits the sector but also fosters a more welcoming and encouraging workplace where each team member truly feels appreciated and empowered. Achieving this requires creating transparent and fair recruitment, promotion, and remuneration rules, as well as providing important training, mentorship, and networking opportunities for the diverse members of the staff.

    Collaborate and co-create: In order to promote diversity and inclusion in the game industry, co-creation and cooperation are the third and most important stages. Understanding how the gaming industry interacts with other industries, communities, and sectors is essential given how interconnected the industry is. Through proactive involvement with various stakeholders, including academics, media, civil society, and government, one can effectively leverage a wide array of resources, knowledge, and power to advance the cause of diversity and inclusion in the game industry. In addition, including your audience in the stages of game design, development, and testing guarantees that your creations are in line with their tastes and demands. It also fosters a collaborative environment where their input is respected and taken into consideration.

    Educate and advocate: The fourth integral measure to advance diversity and inclusion in the game industry entails an active commitment to education and advocacy. Recognising that the gaming industry is not a passive entity but a potent force shaping and being shaped by culture, society, and politics, it becomes imperative to champion diversity and inclusion. Through robust education and advocacy efforts within the industry, one can elevate awareness, challenge prevailing stereotypes, and instigate transformative change among peers, partners, and consumers. Additionally, there is an opportunity to champion and amplify the voices and narratives of marginalized groups within the game industry, including women, people of colour, LGBTQ+ individuals, those with disabilities, and individuals hailing from low-income or underrepresented regions.

    Embracing Diversity for a Brighter Future!

    In the ever-expanding landscape of fantasy gaming, the journey towards inclusivity and diversity is a collective effort. By implementing these initiatives, fantasy gaming platforms can transcend virtual boundaries and create communities that are reflective of the diverse world we inhabit. Together, developers, players, and enthusiasts can build a gaming ecosystem that embraces everyone, ensuring that the magic of fantasy gaming is truly for all.

    The author of the article is Super4 founder Rohit Bansal.

  • Weekend Unwind with visual artist Santanu Hazarika

    Weekend Unwind with visual artist Santanu Hazarika

    Mumbai: With another weekend upon us, it is time to unwind with the latest Q&A edition of Indiantelevision.com’s Weekend Unwind—a series of informal chats that delve into the minds of digital content creators through a fun lens, aiming to understand the person behind the creative journey a little better.

    In this week’s session, we have Santanu Hazarika. Hazarika is a multidisciplinary autodidact visual artist based in Mumbai. He is a video gamer and an illustrator. He dropped out of engineering to become the first ever Redbull World Doodle Art Champion in 2014 in Capetown, South Africa.

    So without further ado, here it goes…

    Your mantra for life

    You should be experimental and always be curious, you should also question everything and create things to surprise yourself. Not the people around you.

    A book you are currently reading or plan to read

    The book that I am reading is “Gödel, Escher, Bach” by Douglas Hofstadter. It’s a book that tries to go into the science of creativity. The book includes Physics text, old science, and new science including logic.

    Your fitness mantra

    Well, my fitness mantra is pretty simple: workout, run and eat as much as required.  This is what I feel is important because overeating and overindulging causes stress. It doesn’t matter what you are eating, but the right proportion of food is important.

    Your comfort food

    Rice and Aloo Pitika l Assamese style mashed potatoes, with Assamese chicken curry and also there is a thing called Khar, it’s a special thing made by chat banana leave and water.

    A quote or philosophy that keeps you going when the chips are down

    Everything changes and you should always have hope.

    The last time you tried something new

    I can’t recall exactly when was the last time I tried something new, but more or less I am up for everything. I have mostly tried everything except for skydiving. That is something that I really wanna try.

    A life lesson you learned the hard way

    I have learned that you cannot be impatient and everything will happen in its due time. There are always things that are beyond your control so you shouldn’t get anxious or drive yourself crazy by thinking that you can control everything around you.

    What gets you excited about life

    Meeting new people, having experiences, and obviously enjoying life in a way where I get to do things that I’ve always dreamt of as a kid, so I think right now I am just trying to fulfill all the things that I couldn’t do as a child. That is what is exciting for me at the moment.

    What’s on top of your bucket list

    I really want to settle down in Japan. Have my own house in a quiet old town in the countryside in Japan and just be happy there.

    If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be

    Practicing more art. I wish I had started at a very young age to draw and sketch and was more focused as a teenager or a kid then, I might have had more skills to express myself more diligently and accurately.

    One thing you would like to change about the world

    I want to see people have more empathy towards each other. I would like to see people be more kind towards each other. I think that is something that we lack and forget, which is being kind to others and yourself.

    An activity that keeps you motivated and charged during tough times

    I love watching anime and every time I’m going through something really hard. I rewatched some of the old anime that I always used to watch while growing up like Naruto or Dragon Ball Z. It motivates me.

    What lifts your spirits when life gets you down

    Hope- because everything changes and the fact is I have started from zero and come this far, then I could do it again and I think that lifts me up.

    Your go-to stress buster

    Traveling, going out, being in nature, or playing video games throughout the day.