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Category: iWorld

  • VI’s people-first initiative helps reunite families at Kumbh Mela

    VI’s people-first initiative helps reunite families at Kumbh Mela

    MUMBAI: At every Kumbh Mela, thousands of people become separated from their families in the vast crowds. In 2013, around 70,000 individuals were reported lost at Prayagraj Kumbh. This year presents similar challenges, with over 250 people reportedly lost within the first few hours of the event’s opening day.

    To address this issue, India’s leading telecom operator, VI, has introduced the ‘VI Number Rakshak’ initiative, ensuring that no one feels lost or disconnected. Recognising that many, especially the elderly and children, may not own mobile phones or struggle to recall contact numbers, VI has set up a dedicated booth near Swami Ramanand Acharya Shibir akhada.

    At this booth, pilgrims can receive complimentary Rudraksh and Tulsi bracelets engraved with emergency contact numbers of family members or companions. This simple yet effective solution provides a reliable means of reconnecting without the need for mobile phones or internet access.

    Speaking on the initiative, VI chief marketing officer Avneesh Khosla highlighted the company’s commitment to people-first solutions. “VI Number Rakshak showcases how the simplest ideas can make a significant impact. We are not just a telecom provider, but a people-first partner, ensuring connectivity when it matters most,” he said.

    VI Number Rakshak aligns with VI’s broader philosophy of ‘Be Someone’s We’, which promotes fostering connections and collective care—previously highlighted in campaigns addressing urban loneliness among youth and senior citizens.

    In addition, VI has significantly bolstered its network infrastructure at the Maha Kumbh, installing 30 new sites at Triveni Sangam, along with 40 high-powered small-cell and macro sites across key locations. The company has also deployed 32 km of fibre to enhance backhaul connectivity, ensuring seamless voice calls, uninterrupted video streaming, and high-speed data access for VI users in the densely crowded areas.
     

  • Hoopr-Budding Influencers ink partnership to ensure copyright-safe content

    Hoopr-Budding Influencers ink partnership to ensure copyright-safe content

    MUMBAI: India’s leading copyright-safe music platform, Hoopr, has partnered with Budding Influencers to address one of the most pressing challenges in content creation—copyright compliance. This strategic collaboration aims to provide creators with legal music solutions and educational resources, ensuring a seamless and ethical content production process.

    Many content creators unknowingly use copyrighted music, exposing themselves and their associated brands to legal risks. According to Hoopr’s research, 87 per cent of Indian influencers have used unlicensed music and faced copyright claims, leading to penalties, content takedowns, or strained brand relationships. A recent study by the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) revealed that 69 per cent of the country’s top 100 digital influencers failed to meet disclosure guidelines, including those related to music usage. These figures highlight the urgent need for accessible and compliant music solutions.

    With social media marketing budgets surging and the Indian creator economy growing at a CAGR of 18 per cent year-on-year, the demand for copyright-safe music has never been greater. Through this collaboration, over 400,000 influencers from Budding Influencer’s network will gain access to Hoopr’s extensive library of copyright-safe music, allowing them to enhance their content without legal concerns. The partnership will also roll out educational initiatives to simplify copyright laws and promote the ethical use of music in digital content.

    Hoopr co-founder & CEO Gaurav Dagaonkar commented, “We are excited to join forces with Budding Influencers to tackle these critical issues in content creation. By offering premium copyright-safe music alongside valuable educational resources, we are fostering a safer and more innovative ecosystem for creators.”

    Budding Influencers co-founder & CMO Sanober Surani echoed this sentiment, “Copyright violations have long been a challenge for influencers and brands. I recall an instance where a creator unknowingly used copyrighted music in a campaign, leading to a legal notice for the brand. This highlighted the urgent need for accessible, compliant music solutions. We are thrilled to collaborate with Hoopr to equip our creators with high-quality, legally safe music.”

    This partnership underscores a shared commitment to democratising access to essential resources and fostering a sustainable creator economy. By tackling copyright-related challenges at their core, Hoopr and Budding Influencers are empowering creators to innovate freely, without the risk of legal repercussions.
     

  • Archita Jasani joins Jojo app as VP – strategic growth & partnerships

    Archita Jasani joins Jojo app as VP – strategic growth & partnerships

    MUMBAI: In a major move within the OTT industry, Archita Jasani has been appointed as vice president – strategic growth & partnerships at Jojo App, a leading platform dedicated to premium Gujarati content. Known for her expertise in media, content strategy, and OTT growth, Jasani brings her vast industry experience to help steer Jojo App toward a dynamic and expansive future.

    Expressing her excitement, Jasani stated via Linkedin, “Jojo OTT App is reshaping the entertainment landscape for the Gujarati-speaking community, and I am thrilled to be part of this journey. The opportunity to collaborate with such a talented team and contribute to making Gujarati content more accessible, engaging, and globally relevant is truly inspiring.”

    With Jasani’s appointment, the company aims to further drive strategic expansion, forge impactful partnerships, and explore innovative opportunities to elevate the platform’s offerings and reach a broader global audience. She also aims to collaborate with industry leaders, content creators, and partners to build a platform that fosters a deep appreciation for Gujarati culture and storytelling.

    Jasani’s career is a rollercoaster of media milestones. She kicked off in 2003 at Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance before diving headfirst into the world of entertainment. From Hungama, Times Group, and Eros Now, she mastered strategy, distribution, and partnerships with a knack for innovation.

    At V Hunt Digital Media, she put Chana Jor OTT on the Gen Z map, ensuring their binge needs were met. Now, with 20+ years of experience, she’s got the strategy, the vision, and the hustle to push Jojo App into uncharted success.

    As she embarks on this exciting new chapter, Jasani extended her gratitude, saying, “Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout my journey. Here’s to new beginnings and exciting times ahead!”

  • Netflix nets YouTube exec Lori Conkling

    Netflix nets YouTube exec Lori Conkling

    MUMBAI: Her golden mane and tough no-nonsense negotiation style has given her quite a reputation amongst syndication and licensing folks, And  Lori Conkling has  now been appointed as head of film and TV licensing at Netflix. Based in Los Angeles, she will oversee acquisition for television and film content in the United States.

    She moves from YouTube where she spent nearly six years, most recently as global head of TV, film and sports partnerships. Prior to YouTube, she held senior roles at Google, where she led media company partnerships and YouTube TV initiatives.

    Lori brings extensive media experience, having previously served as executive vice-president of strategy and business development at NBCUniversal, executive vice-president of distribution at A+E Networks, and vice-president at Disney and ESPN Media Networks.

  • Amazon MX Player takes viewers on a global ride with Yatra

    Amazon MX Player takes viewers on a global ride with Yatra

    MUMBAI: Buckle up, folks! Amazon MX Player, Amazon’s free video streaming service, has dropped a brand-new brand film featuring none other than Indian cinema’s original Bhidu, Jackie Shroff. And this time, he isn’t just making a style statement-he’s effortlessly navigating through travel hiccups with Yatra Online Ltd (Yatra.com), all while making sure that audiences never run out of world-class entertainment.

    The film puts MX Vdesi front and centre, shining a spotlight on its international content library, brimming with Korean, Turkish, and Mandarin shows-all dubbed in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu. Because let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good K-drama meltdown with subtitles that don’t make you second-guess life choices?

    In true Shroff style, the film hilariously showcases how Yatra ensures a seamless travel experience at unbeatable prices. But here’s the real twist-while Shroff guarantees his fellow travellers a hassle-free trip, he also lets them in on an even bigger treat: Amazon MX Player. That’s right! Whether it’s binge-worthy K-dramas, Mandarin thrillers, or laugh-out-loud comedies, MX Player makes sure no flight delay or layover is ever boring again.

    The brand film takes another entertaining turn when Shroff teams up with Duolingo—because what’s a trip abroad without a language barrier disaster? In one scene, Shroff finds himself in a restaurant struggling with a menu that might as well be ancient Greek. Luckily, Duo, the iconic green owl, swoops in to save the day. But Shroff being Shroff, he doesn’t stop there. He cleverly points out that learning new languages not only helps with ordering exotic dishes but also enhances the experience of watching Turkish and Korean dramas. And for those who still mix up “hello” and “goodbye” in different languages, MX Player’s got it covered with Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu dubs.

    Amazon MX Player director Aruna Daryanani expressed excitement about the collaboration, “At Amazon MX Player, we are always looking for innovative ways to engage our audience, and collaborating with brands to communicate our message using quirky, fun brand films. Partnering with Yatra and Duolingo allows us to blend entertainment with utility, making streaming even more engaging. We look forward to more such creative collaborations that bring fresh, entertaining content to our users for absolutely free.”

    Yatra whole-time director & CEO Dhruv Shringi added, “We are thrilled to have joined forces with Amazon MX Player on this innovative and engaging campaign. We believe that travel should be seamless, enjoyable, and memorable, and this collaboration aligns perfectly with that vision. With Jackie Shroff bringing his inimitable charm to this campaign, it’s a testament to the power of creative collaborations in delivering a complete and enjoyable experience to our customers.”

    So whether you’re planning a trip, stuck at an airport, or just chilling at home, Amazon MX Player and Yatra have got you covered-with Shroff ensuring you travel in style and binge like a boss.

  • Swiggy Instamart’s life-sized pin becomes the ultimate Kumbh landmark

    Swiggy Instamart’s life-sized pin becomes the ultimate Kumbh landmark

    MUMBAI: The Maha Kumbh Mela-a breathtaking convergence of faith, devotion, and, let’s be honest, a logistical nightmare when it comes to keeping track of loved ones. With millions in attendance, finding your way back in the sea of humanity is no easy feat. But worry not! Swiggy Instamart has swooped in with a game-changing solution—turning its life-sized S-pin logo into a one-of-a-kind lost-and-found landmark at Triveni Sangam.

    At the heart of the Kumbh, Swiggy Instamart has set up a dedicated stall, ensuring devotees have easy access to essentials-towels, power banks, torches, batteries, and more. Whether you need to charge your phone, light your way, or dry off after a holy dip, Swiggy’s got you covered. The demand has been soaring, with thousands of visitors relying on the stall for last-minute must-haves.

    But here’s the real crowd-pleaser: Swiggy Instamart’s signature S-pin installation isn’t just for show—it’s a lifeline. Lost your family in the throng? No worries! Scan the QR code at the pin, save the location, and voilà—you’ll always know where to find your way back. In a place where getting separated is almost a rite of passage, Swiggy Instamart has turned its branding into a practical, tongue-in-cheek solution.

    Swiggy Instamart

    “Bichhad gaye toh Swiggy par milte hain” (Lost? Let’s meet on Swiggy). The cheeky sign at the stall has become an instant hit, giving devotees a reason to smile amidst the spiritual chaos. Not just a convenience hub, the Swiggy Instamart stall has become a conversation starter, a meeting point, and an innovative blend of culture and modernity.

    Swiggy Instamart CEO Amitesh Jha shared his excitement about the initiative, “At Swiggy Instamart, we’re always looking for ways to make everyday moments easier for our users. The Maha Kumbh Mela is a deeply significant event, and we wanted to add meaningful value to the experience. By creating a reliable meeting point and ensuring access to essential supplies, we’re making it simpler for visitors to navigate the massive gathering with peace of mind.”

    With cultural insight and innovation at its core, Swiggy Instamart has seamlessly integrated itself into one of the world’s most sacred gatherings. Whether it’s helping lost visitors reunite or ensuring they stay connected and prepared, Swiggy Instamart has proven that convenience isn’t just about deliveries—it’s about being there when it matters most.

  • Rajeswaran M to lead the grand launch of Skyplay IPTV

    Rajeswaran M to lead the grand launch of Skyplay IPTV

    MUMBAI:  Rajeswaran M, director at Skyplay IPTV, has announced its grand launch (set to take place on 13 February)  a next-generation digital entertainment platform offering a triple-play package of broadband, IPTV, and OTT services.
    With over two decades of experience in sales, business development, and corporate strategy within the broadcast and telecom industries, Rajeswaran brings extensive expertise to the platform’s market expansion and strategic growth.

    Before taking on his current role, he served as senior manager – affiliate sales at Disney Star, where he played a key role in revenue growth, market penetration, and content distribution strategies. Over an 11-year tenure, he held leadership positions including assistant vice president and regional manager, overseeing large-scale sales and distribution operations across south, central, and western India.

    His career also includes key leadership roles at ESPN Star Sports, Kansai Nerolac Paints, Castrol India, Britannia Industries, and CavinKare, where he managed sales operations, revenue growth, content distribution, and strategic business development initiatives.

    At Skyplay IPTV, Rajeswaran will focus on expanding the company’s footprint in India’s growing digital entertainment sector, driving broadband and IPTV penetration, and enhancing customer engagement through innovative content delivery.

    Key Responsibilities at Skyplay TV: 
    * Strategic planning: Driving sales strategies for broadband and IPTV services.
    * Sales team management: Leading and mentoring a high-performance team.
    * Revenue growth: Identifying market opportunities and expanding business reach.
    * Industry partnerships: Strengthening relationships with telecom and ISP stakeholders.

  • Music industry to hit $184.69 billion by 2029, riding the digital wave

    Music industry to hit $184.69 billion by 2029, riding the digital wave

    MUMBAI: The music industry is tuning up for a record-breaking encore, with projections forecasting a $184.69 billion leap in market value between 2025 and 2029. According to Technavio, the industry’s setlist for success includes digital music adoption, AI-driven innovation, and the ever-growing streaming revolution. With a CAGR of 18.1 per cent, the industry is not just keeping up with the beat—it’s rewriting the entire score for how we consume music in the digital age.

    Streaming services and AI

    Gone are the days of cassette tapes and MP3 downloads. The streaming era is in full swing, with platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Tencent Music, and YouTube Music leading the charge. In 2024, streaming contributed to a significant chunk of the industry’s revenue, with consumers increasingly opting for on-demand access to their favourite artists rather than owning physical copies or digital files.

    AI is also playing maestro, transforming music discovery, personalisation, and even composition. From playlist curation to predictive analytics for record labels, AI-driven models are rewriting the rules of engagement between artists and audiences. As businesses fine-tune algorithms to keep listeners hooked, the industry continues its transition towards a more data-driven, user-centric model. AI is even entering the creative process, with some companies experimenting with AI-generated music compositions, raising both excitement and concerns about the future of human artistry in the industry.

    Where is the music industry humming the loudest? North America leads the symphony, contributing 40 per cent of the global market share, thanks to a massive subscriber base and an appetite for premium content. Europe, APAC, south America, and the middle east & Africa follow suit, each playing a crucial role in the global expansion of streaming services.

    Key markets driving growth include the United States, Germany, Canada, the United Kingdom, China, France, Japan, South Korea, Italy, and the Netherlands. These regions are witnessing a spike in digital music consumption, boosted by faster broadband speeds, affordable smartphones, and a younger, tech-savvy audience. The rise of smart speakers and voice-assisted technologies like Amazon Alexa and Google Home has also contributed to the seamless integration of music into daily life.

    Music Market Scope
    Report Coverage Details
    Base year 2024
    Historic period 2019 – 2023
    Forecast period 2025-2029
    Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 18.1 per cent
    Market growth 2025-2029 $ 184692.4 million
    Market structure Fragmented
    YoY growth 2022-2023 ( per cent) 15.6
    Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa
    Performing market contribution North America at 40 per cent
    Key countries US, Germany, Canada, UK, China, France, Japan, South Korea, Italy, and The Netherlands
    Key companies profiled Amazon.com Inc., Apple Inc., Bertelsmann SE and Co. KGaA, Curb Records Inc., Deezer SA, Kobalt Music Group Ltd., NORTHERN MUSIC Co. Ltd., Pioneer Music Co., Sirius XM Holdings Inc., Sony Group Corp., Spotify Technology SA, Tencent Music Entertainment Group, THEME MUSIC Co. Pvt. Ltd., TIDAL, Universal Music Group N.V., Vivendi SE, Warner Music Group Corp., Yamaha Corp., YouTube, and Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd.

    Industry heavyweights? The music industry is no longer just about record labels. Today, it’s a battlefield where tech giants and traditional players are battling for dominance. Key industry movers include Amazon, Apple, Warner Music, Universal Music Group, Spotify, Tencent Music Entertainment, and YouTube, among others.

    Strategic alliances, mergers, and acquisitions have become the name of the game, with companies aggressively expanding their footprint. Whether it’s Amazon Music integrating voice-activated streaming with Alexa or Spotify’s push into podcasting, innovation is at the heart of market competition. Additionally, artists are increasingly taking control of their own music distribution, bypassing traditional labels in favor of independent digital distribution platforms, enabling them to retain a larger share of their revenue.

    Now despite the roaring success of digital music, challenges persist. Piracy remains a major headache, especially in regions where copyright enforcement is weak. Countries like Portugal, Spain, and the Netherlands are grappling with rampant illegal downloads, impacting revenue streams for artists and labels alike. Efforts to combat this include advanced watermarking technologies and blockchain-based rights management systems, which help trace music usage and ensure fair compensation.

    Another hurdle is the intensifying battle between traditional record companies and digital platforms. While streaming services provide unparalleled reach for artists, they also disrupt conventional revenue models, raising concerns over fair compensation and artist royalties. Some artists have voiced frustrations over the paltry earnings from streaming platforms, prompting new discussions around fairer pay structures and potential regulatory intervention.

    Future trajectory? 

    Looking ahead, the music industry is expected to lean further into AI, metaverse concerts, and blockchain-powered rights management. Live performances and immersive digital experiences are set to be the next frontier, allowing fans to engage with their favourite artists in new and exciting ways. Some companies are already developing virtual concert venues in the metaverse, enabling artists to perform for global audiences without the need for physical tours.

    Additionally, NFTs (non-fungible tokens) are emerging as a revolutionary way for artists to monetise their music, offering exclusive digital collectibles, album releases, and even fractional ownership of song royalties. These blockchain-based assets provide a new revenue stream, reducing reliance on traditional streaming platforms and giving fans unique ways to engage with their favorite musicians.

    As the industry dances to the rhythm of digital transformation, one thing is certain: music consumption will never be the same again. Whether through AI-generated beats, VR-powered gigs, or hyper-personalised playlists, the future of music is as thrilling as its past. With constant innovation, the industry is ensuring that music remains an integral part of people’s lives, adapting to changing consumer behaviors and technological advancements at an unprecedented pace.

  • Madhya Pradesh unveils AVGC-XR policy to boost jobs and investment

    Madhya Pradesh unveils AVGC-XR policy to boost jobs and investment

    MUMBAI: Madhya Pradesh (MP) is making a power move in the world of animation, visual effects, gaming, comics, and extended reality (AVGC-XR), unveiling a bold policy aimed at transforming the state into a digital media powerhouse. With the AVGC-XR sector projected to grow at 14-16 per cent annually, the state government is eyeing a significant slice of this booming industry, setting ambitious targets of Rs 10,000 crore in investments, 50,000 new jobs, and 150 start-ups by 2029.

    The Madhya Pradesh AVGC-XR Policy 2024 is designed to not only position the state as an industry leader but also to boost local talent, attract global players, and accelerate innovation. The government has earmarked Rs 500 crore in financial incentives, offering substantial reimbursements on production costs, training subsidies, and infrastructure development grants. Companies setting up AVGC-XR studios in the state can avail up to 35 per cent reimbursement on eligible production expenses, capped at Rs two crore per project, making MP one of the most attractive destinations for digital content creation in India.

    The policy also focuses on infrastructure expansion, with plans to establish two centres of excellence (CoEs) in Indore and Bhopal, dedicated AVGC-XR labs in schools and universities, and India’s first Animation Theme Park to create an immersive learning and entertainment ecosystem. The state is also investing heavily in workforce development, offering up to 50 per cent reimbursement on AVGC-XR training fees, with additional incentives for women entrepreneurs and underprivileged students entering the sector. By 2029, MP aims to train at least one lakh skilled professionals in AVGC-XR disciplines, addressing both local employment needs and global industry demand.

    Government officials are confident that the policy will be a game-changer for the state’s economy. A senior official from the Madhya Pradesh industrial development Corporation stated that the AVGC-XR policy is expected to contribute at least Rs 3,000 crore annually to the state’s GDP, with exports from the sector projected to reach Rs 2,500 crore in the next five years. He further emphasised that the initiative is not just about entertainment but also about positioning MP as a hub for ed-tech, defence simulations, medical imaging, and virtual reality training modules, expanding the scope of AVGC-XR beyond gaming and film.

    The policy also includes provisions for international collaborations, offering financial support for MP-based companies participating in global trade fairs and co-productions. By integrating global best practices and fostering partnerships with leading AVGC-XR firms, the state hopes to bring Rs 1,500 crore in foreign investments over the next decade.

    Madhya Pradesh’s aggressive push into the AVGC-XR space comes at a time when the Indian AVGC sector is projected to be worth Rs three lakh crore by 2030. By laying the groundwork for a thriving digital ecosystem, MP is positioning itself as a leader in next-gen storytelling, immersive experiences, and high-tech content creation. With a structured policy framework, strong financial backing, and a clear vision for the future, the state is not just embracing the digital revolution, it’s setting the stage to lead it.

  • Dtdc enters the rapid commerce race with lightning-fast deliveries

    Dtdc enters the rapid commerce race with lightning-fast deliveries

    MUMBAI: If you thought Dtdc was fast before, buckle up—because the logistics powerhouse just hit the turbo button. India’s leading integrated express logistics service provider has made a grand entrance into the rapid commerce space, introducing two to four hour rapid delivery and same-day delivery services. Now, waiting for packages will feel more like a coffee break than an eternity.

    Marking the first step in this high-speed journey, Dtdc has launched its first dark store in Bengaluru. This marks the beginning of a hyperlocal fulfillment model that will supercharge deliveries, empowering D2C brands, social commerce sellers, and e-commerce businesses to provide lightning-fast order fulfillment.

    And the best part? This isn’t just a one-city experiment. Dtdc plans to scale rapid deliveries nationwide, ensuring businesses and customers across India enjoy unparalleled convenience in the fast-paced digital era. The move further cements Dtdc’s role as a key player in transforming e-commerce logistics, where speed isn’t a luxury-it’s an expectation.

    Dtdc Express Ltd. founder, chairman & managing director, Subhasish Chakraborty highlighted the significance of this bold move, “This marks a crucial milestone in Dtdc’s journey and reinforces our commitment to driving growth in the rapidly evolving logistics and commerce sectors. Rapid commerce is the future, and we are positioning ourselves to lead this transformation in India.”

    Dtdc Express Ltd. CEO Abhishek Chakraborty echoed this enthusiasm, “Launching our first dark store in Bengaluru—India’s e-commerce heartland—is just the beginning. With this initiative, Dtdc is redefining logistics solutions and reshaping how brands and businesses cater to modern consumers. Faster, smarter, and more efficient—this is the future of delivery.”

    With this milestone, Dtdc isn’t just delivering parcels—it’s delivering speed, reliability, and a game-changing future for logistics in India.