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Category: MAM

  • PubMatic Partners with Internews to enable ad investment in quality journalism on a global scale

    PubMatic Partners with Internews to enable ad investment in quality journalism on a global scale

    Mumbai: PubMatic (Nasdaq: PUBM), an independent technology company delivering digital advertising’s supply chain of the future, has today announced a partnership with Internews, an international non-profit supporting independent media in over 100 countries. The partnership makes advertising across responsible content accessible on a global scale, allowing brands to embrace news-encompassing marketing strategies that produce social impact, and economic returns and enable them to reach and gain affinity with more customers.

    The partnership is underpinned by Internews’ Ads for News Initiative, which employs in-country media experts to vet local news websites, ensuring the quality of supply. This non-profit work is conducted globally, using extensive evaluation criteria including the Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM) brand safety and suitability standards.

    Via PubMatic, the quality news sites and domains vetted by Ads for News, can be accessed directly through a local market inclusion list, private marketplaces (PMPs) or a package of inventory against a biddable price.

    Leveraging leading-edge technologies from both companies, the collaboration will include integration with the upcoming Internews-led Media Viability Accelerator initiative, enabling PubMatic to access a wealth of insights and pull curated lists of trusted media into its own systems according to specific content thematics such as gender, environment and health news and information.

    This partnership aims to instil confidence in buying responsible news, making it easier for advertisers to buy media against content quality criteria and credible news sources to support quality journalism. With over 14,000 vetted, quality online news publishers, in 54 international markets, the initiative’s scale of supply is unmatched in the industry.

    “A thriving, open internet must be based upon an ecosystem that is built to deliver positive outcomes for everyone. PubMatic is committed to both responsible operations and supporting responsible media, “said Eric Bozinny, Senior Director, Marketplace Quality at PubMatic. “Quality journalism is vital to the health and well-being of our society – more so today than ever. Top tier brands have made a strong commitment towards supporting credible news sources via their advertising activities, but they must be able to do so with the utmost confidence that their budgets are going toward quality, brand-safe outlets and coverage.”

    Internews’ Chris Hajecki, Director of Ads for News, said “Brands and their agency partners are investing more responsibly and evolving their old ways of working. One of these evolutions is towards the inclusion of quality journalism in media planning— particularly as more brand safety assurances are now on offer. Supporting quality journalism is a pillar of responsible ad investing and results in more sustainable and transparent supply chains, higher economic returns for advertisers, and positive impacts on society.” 

  • ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund’s International Women’s Day campaign ‘Sapno ki Kishte’

    ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund’s International Women’s Day campaign ‘Sapno ki Kishte’

    Mumbai: This International Women’s Day, ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund proudly unveils its latest campaign ‘Sapno ki Kishte’, narrating the remarkable journey of a mother and her son. Through a poignant narrative, the campaign captures the woman’s unwavering determination to fulfil her son’s dream of owning a car, despite her everyday challenges. The campaign highlights the need for financial awareness amongst women and securing the future through the Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) route.

    The campaign sheds light on the daily sacrifices and resilience of women, emphasizing the pivotal role they play in shaping the dreams and aspirations of their families. As the story unfolds, viewers witness a woman’s unwavering strength and perseverance.

    ICICI Prudential AMC head of marketing, digital and customer experience Abhijit Shah emphasised the importance of the campaign in recognizing and celebrating the contributions of women. He stated, “At ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund, we believe in empowering individuals to achieve their financial goals, regardless of their circumstances. Through this campaign, we aim to honour the unbeatable spirit of women and how Mutual Funds offer a pathway to secure their family’s future.”

    The campaign underscores the benefits of investing in Mutual Funds as a means to secure financial stability and pursue long-term goals. By offering a wide range of investment options tailored towards achieving diverse needs, ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund remains committed to supporting individuals in their journey towards financial independence.

    Mutual funds provide a diversified investment option, allowing individuals to invest in a variety of asset classes like equity, debt, gold and other commodities. Furthermore, Mutual Funds offer liquidity, transparency and flexibility making them a convenient tool for individuals looking to achieve their financial goals whether it’s for a short-term requirement like a car, a medium-term requirement like the down payment for a home or for long-term needs like building a retirement kitty, saving for child’s overseas education or simply building long term wealth. The campaign will reach the masses via company’s multiple digital channels like YouTube, Instagram and Facebook.

  • Media Care wins digital marketing mandate for ScoopMan Ice-Creams & Cafe

    Media Care wins digital marketing mandate for ScoopMan Ice-Creams & Cafe

    Mumbai: Media Care Brand Solutions, an integrated marketing agency has won the digital marketing mandate for Delhi based ScoopMan Ice Creams & Café.

    As a part of the partnership, Media Care will be responsible to drive the strategy for creative campaigns, content & video creation, social media platforms, influencer marketing and digital ad spends for the ice cream, desserts & café brand and the digital mandate will be handled by agency’s Delhi and Mumbai teams.

    ScoopMan, a visionary brand born during the pandemic to address the challenge of limited dessert options available online under one roof. ScoopMan’s value proposition lies in being the ultimate destination for all dessert enthusiasts. The brand offers 30 exquisite flavors of premium gourmet fresh cream milk ice creams infused with natural fillings and toppings, appealing to every age group. The ice creams are prepared using Italian ingredients from MEC3. From delightful fruit, chocolate, caramel, brownie, traditional variants & ice cream cheesecake to custom-made sundaes, ice cream sizzlers, crispy baked waffles & lancakes, rich milkshakes & ice cream shakes, frothy ice cream sodas, and café-style appetizers. With a trusted supplier’s 30-year legacy of crafting excellent fresh milk ice creams, ScoopMan is a go-to one-stop shop for a delightful dessert experience.

    Media Care Brand Solutions co-founder & director Yasin Hamidani said, “We are thrilled to be on-boarded by a vibrant, energetic and popular ice cream, dessert & café brand like ScoopMan. We are looking forward to working with ScoopMan Ice Creams & Café and further scaling up their digital visibility, awareness and activations. Looking at the current consumer journey, we will need to activate all cogs of content, activation and experience for giving them an integrated digital solution, which will deliver business value to them.”

    ScoopMan Ice Creams & Cafe founder Priya Arora said, “With the shift in audience behaviour and increased digital activities, we aim to occupy higher mind space of the consumers by tapping into the non-linear consumer journey and better targeting that digital has to offer. We are delighted to have Media Care on board as our digital partner. Through its digital presence, ScoopMan has been synonymous with premium fresh ice cream treats, customized desserts, rich thick creamy shakes, and café appetizers. We want to continue offering joy to families and our TG, so that ScoopMan Ice Creams& Café resonates as a brand which delivers premium ice creams, customized desserts & appetizers made of superior ingredients. We are confident that Media Care will beef up the digital presence further with its impactful and innovative solutions. We are looking forward to this partnership as we are expanding exponentially across North India and other South regions through our franchise and company owned outlets.”  

    Currently the brand is serving across the region of Delhi in Sector 3 Rohini, Sector 24 Rohini and Pacific Mall, Dwarka. Soon the brand is looking to launch its fourth outlet at Pitampura in March 2024 and fifth outlet at Unity One Mall in NSP, Delhi. The brand is aiming to add 50 outlets across Delhi NCR region by 2026.

    “At Media Care, our core services are built on the grounds of creating meaningful solutions for our partners. We are delighted to lend our expertise to ScoopMan Ice Creams & Café, a brand that has been born out of a passion and love and has been serving up these delights since 2021 in Delhi. The key focus will be to engage with our customers across all sections and age groups. We will leverage our expertise in Integrated Digital Marketing to bring awareness of the brand across the country” said Media Care Brand Solutions CEO and co-founder Heemanshu Hemrajani.

    ScoopMan Ice Creams & Café co-founder & director Gonal Arora added, “With changing consumer lifestyles and growing appreciation for high-quality products & desire for ice cream flavours, our brand ScoopMan Ice Creams aims to fill a gap in the market for consumers who seek all types of desserts and extraordinary ice cream experience under one roof. ScoopMan Ice Creams embodies the perfect balance of craftsmanship, high-quality ingredients, and delectable flavours.”

  • WIN celebrates International Women’s Day 2024: Connecting women, inspiring change

    WIN celebrates International Women’s Day 2024: Connecting women, inspiring change

    Mumbai: Women Inspiring Network (WIN) is thrilled to announce a series of dynamic events in celebration of International Women’s Day 2024. Collaborating with Tower Capital Group and The Galien Foundation, WIN presents an engaging panel discussion at the Inaugural Modi Prix Galien India. Esteemed leaders from Fortune 50 companies and renowned NGOs worldwide convened for focused dialogues on cutting-edge advancements in medicine, digital solutions, and biotechnology. Additionally, WIN will host Women in Design (WIN X OBEETEE Carpets), merging legacy, creativity, and sustainability in celebration of International Women’s Day. After successfully orchestrating these impactful events, WIN will culminate the month with a Global Mentoring Walk on March 29, 2024, ensuring a powerful conclusion. Throughout March, WIN will also spearhead a campaign celebrating Women’s Month, inviting leaders from across the globe to submit videos highlighting Women and Inclusivity, thereby amplifying diverse voices and fostering a culture of equality and empowerment.

    WIN Founder Stuti Jalan stated, “These events epitomize WIN’s unwavering commitment to uniting women and propelling meaningful change. As we collaborate with esteemed partners like the Tower Capital Group and the Galien Foundation, we celebrate women’s achievements and pave the way for impactful discussions that transcend boundaries. From the Inaugural Prix Galien India to the Women in Design initiative with OBEETEE Carpets, we merge legacy, creativity, and sustainability to create spaces where women’s voices are heard and their contributions honoured. These endeavours are not just events; they’re milestones on our journey towards a more inclusive, equitable world.”

    The panel discussion at the Inaugural Prix Galien India, moderated by Stuti Jalan, featured distinguished speakers including Shuchin Bajaj, founder director of Ujala Cygnus Hospitals, Pushpanjali R Chawla, founder of Pivoutal Consulting Services, Shailja Mittal, co-founder at Qurex, and Peter Paul Pushparaj, CEO and co-founder of AI Nexus Healthcare Inc. Topics such as regenerative medicine, modern healthcare applications of Ayurveda, and sexual health for women’s overall well-being will be explored, offering profound insights into future innovations and collaborations in healthcare.

    In another exciting endeavour, Women in Design (WIN X OBEETEE Carpets) will host an event on 6 March 2024, to merge legacy, creativity, and sustainability in celebration of International Women’s Day. Esteemed panellists including Taniya Seth, Amrita Chowdhury, Kamalika Bose, and Deepa Parekh will delve into the theme “Crafting Homes and Communities,” promising insights that resonate with both heart and mind. Moreover, WIN will orchestrate a Global Mentoring Walk, offering a global platform for mentorship and networking. This event will serve as a conduit for women to connect, learn, and inspire one another on an international scale, fostering bonds that transcend borders.

    Throughout March 2024, WIN invites female leaders from across the globe to lend their voices to the Real Voices of Women – Inspiring Inclusion Campaign. By amplifying diverse perspectives and narratives, WIN endeavours to cultivate a culture of inclusivity and inspiration.

  • Accor Showcase 2024 successfully concludes in Delhi and Mumbai

    Accor Showcase 2024 successfully concludes in Delhi and Mumbai

    Mumbai: The curtains have closed on Accor Showcase 2024, a ground-breaking business-to-business (B2B) event that unfolded with tremendous success in Delhi at Pullman, Aerocity on 21 February 2024 and in Mumbai at Novotel Mumbai International Airport on 23 February 2024. This dynamic showcase not only met but exceeded expectations, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of hospitality collaboration and innovation.

    Accor Showcase 2024 created an immersive experience, fostering dynamic discussions on meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) that resulted in positive conversions. Over 50 Accor properties worldwide were represented, drawing active participation from corporates, travel partners, wedding planners, travel agents, and airline partners.

    The culmination of Accor Showcase 2024 saw participation from a diverse array of countries, including the United Arab Emirates, the United States of America, India, Turkey, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia, and many more underscoring its international significance and impact. Attendees from these nations enriched the discussions with their unique perspectives, contributing to the event’s success as a global platform for collaboration and innovation in the hospitality sector.

    Furthermore, the spotlight was on the ALL-Accor Live Limitless loyalty program which captivated attendees, reaffirming Accor’s commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences and setting new standards for loyalty in the industry. Attendees were privy to the latest updates on the ALL-Accor Live Limitless loyalty program and its offerings, signalling Accor’s unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences. It also focused on the luxury, premium, mid-scale and economy segments with captivating conversations.

    Accor India & South Asia head of commercial Pratima Badhwar said, “Accor Showcase 2024 has been a testament to our commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of hospitality. The positive responses received in both cities affirm that we are not just setting trends; we are defining the future of hospitality.”

    Accor Showcase remains the highly respected and anticipated hotel exhibition in the travel and tourism industry. The event concluded with an engaging evening featuring the finest food and beverage offerings, leaving participants inspired and eager to embrace the evolving landscape of hospitality.

  • Ferns N Petals’ FNP Media Commemorates International Women’s Day with The Golden Egg

    Ferns N Petals’ FNP Media Commemorates International Women’s Day with The Golden Egg

    Mumbai: FNP Media, the esteemed digital production arm under the umbrella company Ferns N Petals unveils its latest cinematic creation, ‘The Golden Egg,’ on the occasion of International Women’s Day on 8 March 2024. This film is crafted with a noble objective to raise awareness among Indian citizens about the prevalence of IVF scams while emphasizing the critical importance of prioritizing women’s health.

    Under the direction of Gaurav Mehra, ‘The Golden Egg’ showcases an ensemble of exceptional talents, including Chandan Roy, known for his debut role in Amazon Prime’s ‘Panchayat,’ alongside his stellar performances in ‘Choona’ and ‘Shehar Lakhot.’ Accompanying him is Swati Rajput, portraying the female lead. Spanning 17 minutes, this short film exposes the intricate web of fake identities, urging audiences to verify the authenticity of fertility centres for IVF in India.

    FNP Media & Ferns N Petals and the producer of the film founder & MD Vikaas Gutgutia expressed, “Through ‘The Golden Egg,’ FNP Media as a whole continues its purpose to not only entertain but also enlighten and inspire. FNP Media has never failed to employ the power of cinema to address issues and mark meaningful dialogue. Hence, in honour of International Women’s Day, our recent launch seeks to shed light on the dark side of IVF scams in India and support women’s reproductive health. This film is not just entertainment; it’s a call to action, urging viewers to question the integrity of medical practices and prioritize ethical standards.”

    While “The Golden Egg” highlights IVF scams, it also advocates for change in attitudes towards women’s reproductive health. The film illustrates the challenges faced by couples seeking affordable and trustworthy fertility assistance and simultaneously sensitively portrays the struggles of women unfairly blamed within marriages. By delving into these realities with empathy, it inspires viewers to support women’s reproductive rights.

    FNP Media, a digital production house under the Ferns N Petals brand, specialises in crafting engaging short films, web series, and TV commercials. With successful creations like “The Date,” “Shades Of Love,” “2 Rupey ka Sikka,” “2100 FT,” “Gudgud,” “Aaina,” and “Purple Scarf,” this media venture has earned global acclaim. Through thought-provoking content and excellent storytelling, the films prompt audiences to reflect on the messages embedded within. Combining entertainment and inspiration, the productions by FNP Media leave a lasting impact on the minds of viewers, resonating with them long after the credits roll.

  • CMGalaxy and Sociowash revolutionise performance campaigns with automation

    CMGalaxy and Sociowash revolutionise performance campaigns with automation

    Mumbai: CMGalaxy, a marketing automation platform that makes brands self-reliant for lead generation and marketing data analysis needs is thrilled to announce its partnership with Sociowash, an integrated advertising agency to revolutionize performance campaigns and reporting automation for brands.

    In an ever-evolving digital landscape, agencies like Sociowash constantly seek innovative solutions to drive better results for their clients. Partnering with CMGalaxy grants Sociowash access to a diverse array of tools and features, tailored to enhance lead generation, analyze marketing data, and fulfill intelligence needs more efficiently. Sociowash can provide real-time insights and analytics by automating reporting processes, saving time and enabling data-driven decisions. Additionally, with CMGalaxy’s cost optimization tools, Sociowash can effectively manage budgets to ensure optimal results for their clients.

    Commenting on the association, CMGalaxy MD of CMRSL, the parent company Dhaval Gupta said, “We are thrilled to embark on this journey with Sociowash, a trusted partner known for its innovative approach to integrated advertising. Together, we are committed to revolutionizing performance campaigns and reporting automation, empowering brands to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.”

    Sociowash co-founder Pranav Agarwal said, “At Sociowash, we’ve always believed in the power of combining creativity, cutting-edge technology, and strategic thinking to add value for our clients. This collaboration strengthens our commitment to innovation and excellence, opening exciting new doors for the success of our partners.”

    With the combined strengths of CMGalaxy’s marketing automation platform and Sociowash’s integrated advertising solutions, brands can look forward to achieving unprecedented success in their marketing endeavors.

  • “Innovation is the lifeblood of our journey”: Arun Meena

    “Innovation is the lifeblood of our journey”: Arun Meena

    Mumbai: RHA Technologies for the first time in India enables the unique trust dependent  outsourced tech co-founder offering for Start-ups and SMEs. In addition, the  organisation also offers the traditional model of outsourced product  development to MNCs and startups.

    The organisation provides an empathetic and synergistic technology  consulting, digital transformation, and technology services and solutions to  the founders of start-ups and SMEs worldwide. Thus, enabling the client  organisations to realise and strengthen their innovation, differentiation,  valuation and market offering.  

    Arun Meena is an IIT Kanpur graduate from department of Computer Science, and visionary of the unique trust dependent outsourced tech co-founder offering of RHA Technologies Pvt Ltd. He has developed the organisation to provide an empathetic and synergistic  technology consulting, digital transformation, and technology services and solutions to the founders of start-ups and SMEs worldwide. He thus enables the client organisations to realise and strengthen their innovation, differentiation, valuation and market offering.  

    Indiantelevision.com caught up with Meena, during which he delved into his company’s remarkable success, its trajectory of growth, strategic insights, and much more.

    Edited excerpts

    On elaborating the specific technical and vertical domain expertise that RHA Technologies possesses

    Our journey has been defined by our passion for technology and our commitment to empowering businesses across various sectors. Over the years, my team and I have immersed ourselves in the intricacies of digital transformation, leveraging advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain, and IoT.

    Our expertise isn’t just about the tools we use; it’s about understanding the nuances of different industries. From collaborating with global corporations to supporting innovative startups, we’ve developed a deep understanding of sectors such as education, real estate, BFSI, media & entertainment, social media, and more.

    What truly sets us apart is our approach. We don’t just offer cookie-cutter solutions; we immerse ourselves in our client’s challenges, working side by side to co-create strategies that drive real results. Whether it’s developing bespoke SaaS products or providing strategic guidance, our goal is always the same: to empower our clients to thrive in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.

    On collaborating with clients to understand their specific technological needs and challenges

    At RHA Technologies, collaboration is ingrained in our DNA. When it comes to understanding our client’s technological needs and challenges, my team and I believe in a hands-on approach. We establish open and transparent communication channels, ensuring that every client feels heard and valued.

    Our collaboration begins with a deep dive into our client’s unique circumstances. We uncover their pain points, aspirations, and objectives through candid conversations, thorough assessments, and active listening. We view our clients as partners, working together to navigate the complexities of their technological landscape.

    To ensure our solutions hit the mark, we tailor our approach to each client’s specific requirements. We facilitate workshops, conduct interviews, and gather feedback through surveys, all to align our strategies with our clients’ business goals.

    Our commitment to collaboration doesn’t end with the initial engagement. We recognize that needs evolve, so we maintain ongoing communication and flexibility, ready to adjust our approach as circumstances change. Ultimately, our goal is simple: to deliver not just solutions, but successful outcomes that exceed our clients’ expectations. It’s this collaborative ethos that forms the foundation of our long-lasting relationships with our clients.

    On describing RHA Technologies’ approach to innovation and staying ahead in the rapidly evolving tech landscape

    Innovation is the lifeblood of our journey. We understand that to remain competitive and meet the evolving needs of our clients, we must continually explore new ideas, technologies, and methodologies. Our approach to innovation is multifaceted, encompassing several key strategies. Firstly, we invest heavily in research and development, dedicating resources to exploring emerging technologies and trends. This allows us to stay abreast of the latest advancements and leverage them to create innovative solutions for our clients.

    Additionally, we motivate a culture of creativity and experimentation within our organization, encouraging our team members to think outside the box and explore unconventional approaches to problem-solving. We provide opportunities for professional development and continuous learning, enabling our team to expand their skill sets and stay at the forefront of industry trends. We prioritize agility and adaptability in our approach to innovation, recognizing that the tech landscape is constantly evolving. We remain flexible and responsive to changes in market dynamics, shifting customer preferences, and emerging technologies, allowing us to pivot quickly and seize new opportunities.

    Our commitment to innovation enables us to not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients, delivering cutting-edge solutions that drive tangible business results and position them for success in the digital age.

    On the strategies for accelerating business with core and disruptive technologies

    Some of the strategies that our company adopts ethically that every tech business should start implementing to achieve success are:

    1.Leverage core technologies: Identify key technologies that form the foundation of your business operations, such as cloud computing, data analytics, and cybersecurity. Invest in optimizing and enhancing these core technologies to improve efficiency, scalability, and performance.

    2.Explore disruptive technologies: Stay abreast of emerging technologies that have the potential to disrupt your industry, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things. Evaluate how these technologies can be integrated into your business model to drive innovation, create new revenue streams, and gain a competitive edge.

    3.Scalable Infrastructure: Invest in scalable infrastructure and flexible architectures that adapt to evolving technological landscapes and business requirements. By building robust and resilient IT systems, companies can future-proof their operations, scale seamlessly, and capitalise on emerging opportunities without being constrained by legacy constraints or technical debt.

    4.Continuous Experimentation: Embrace a culture of continuous experimentation and rapid prototyping to test and validate new ideas, concepts, and technologies. By adopting agile methodologies and iterative development approaches, businesses can quickly identify viable opportunities, iterate on solutions based on real-world feedback, and pivot as needed to stay ahead of the curve.

    5.Open Innovation Platforms: Establish open innovation platforms and collaborative ecosystems to co-create and co-innovate with external stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, partners, and even competitors. By crowdsourcing ideas, insights, and expertise from diverse sources, companies can accelerate the pace of innovation, reduce R&D costs, and mitigate technological risks.

    6.Customer-Centric Innovation: Prioritize customer-centric innovation by leveraging core and disruptive technologies to address unmet needs, pain points, and aspirations of target customers. By focusing on delivering exceptional value and personalized experiences, businesses can foster customer loyalty, drive brand advocacy, and gain a competitive edge in the market.

    On highlighting some tech trends that are shaping the future of startups

    Startups are utilizing various tech trends such as ChatGPT, AIML, and automation.

    1.ChatGPT is an OpenAI language model that generates realistic text based on the context and previous dialogue. It can be applied to develop natural language software agents like chatbots and virtual assistants, as well as to create original content such as logos, comic strips, and images.

    2.AIML is an XML-based language that programmers use to build natural language software agents. It provides automated responses to user queries using data-driven and rule-based scripting.

    3.Automation is the use of technology to execute tasks with minimal human input, such as business process automation, IT automation, workflow automation, and more. Automation can improve the efficiency, reliability, and speed of many tasks that were previously performed by humans. It can also provide new insights and solutions using artificial intelligence and machine learning.

    By adopting these tech trends, startups can innovate, optimise, and scale their products and services, while enhancing their customer experience and satisfaction.

    On having any tips for entrepreneurial success in the age of SMAC Technologies

    To succeed as an entrepreneur in the era of SMAC (Social, Mobile, Analytics, and Cloud) technologies, I’ve discovered that embracing digital transformation and prioritizing a customer-centric approach is essential. By harnessing SMAC technologies, we can tailor customer experiences, engage meaningfully on social media platforms, and make informed decisions backed by data analytics. Concomitantly, a steadfast emphasis on cybersecurity and data privacy is imperative, while nurturing collaborative ecosystems and fostering a culture of relentless innovation and perpetual adaptation can position enterprises for prosperity within the swiftly evolving digital terrain. Ensuring the safety and integrity of our digital assets is non-negotiable. Promoting a collaborative ecosystem, and nurturing a culture of innovation and adaptability are vital. By encouraging continuous learning and experimentation, we position ourselves to thrive amidst the rapid evolution of technology. By integrating these fundamental precepts into their entrepreneurial pursuits, enterprises can adeptly navigate and seize the opportunities presented by SMAC technologies.

  • Bharat Dialogues (WMHSA) 2024: elevating mental health discourse in India

    Bharat Dialogues (WMHSA) 2024: elevating mental health discourse in India

    Mumbai: The Bharat Dialogues Women’s Mental Health Summit & Awards (WMHSA) 2024, set to be hosted at the India International Centre, New Delhi, on International Women’s Day, 8 March 2024, marks a pioneering move towards addressing mental health concerns among women in India. This event is curated to create a transformative dialogue and action plan to enhance the mental health landscape across the nation.

    At a time when mental health issues among women are gaining critical attention, WMHSA 2024 aims to break down the existing barriers in the mental health sector through a trans-disciplinary approach. It seeks to enrich the knowledge pool, catalyse impactful collaborations, and advance the collective goal to ameliorate mental health care in India, making it a vital assembly for professionals, survivors, and advocates in the mental health space.

    Pooja Priyamvada and Vivek Satya Mitram, the co-founders of Bharat Dialogues, underscore the significance of such a summit in the current Indian context: Pooja Priyamvada, reflecting on the need for WMHSA, states, “In a country where the narrative around mental health is steadily evolving, initiatives like WMHSA 2024 are not just necessary; they are imperative. By bringing together the brightest minds and the most resilient spirits in the mental health arena, we aim not only to catalyse a shift in discourse but to cultivate a plethora that addresses the nuanced mental health needs of women in India.”

    Vivek Satya Mitram adds, “The statistics around women’s mental health in India reveal a pressing challenge but also an opportunity for substantial impact. WMHSA 2024 is envisioned as a platform where the convergence of ideas, experiences, and strategies can create a holistic and sustainable impact on mental health policies and practices. It’s about creating a shared vision for a future where mental health is prioritised, and support systems are both robust and accessible.”

    This summit intends to congregate a diverse group of participants, including senior mental health practitioners, innovative professionals, renowned educators, dedicated social workers, startup founders, and courageous survivors, to facilitate one of India’s most distinguished platforms for recognising excellence, stimulating dialogue, and strengthening networks within the mental health community.

    The Urgency Behind WMHSA 2024:

    Statistics underscore the critical need for such an event:

    • Approximately 7.5 per cent of Indian women suffer from major mental health conditions, with almost 50 per cent experiencing at least one mental health episodet throughout their lifetime.

    • Women are disproportionally affected by mental health disorders compared to men, with incidences of one in five women and one in eight men.

    • Among young women aged 16 to 24, over a quarter experience common mental health issues weekly.

    Target Audience and Beneficiaries:

    • Stakeholders across the mental health spectrum,

    • Mental health practitioners, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists and counsellors;

    • Entities such as hospitals, clinics, academic institutions, foundations, and NGOs;

    • Media representatives, journalists, online platforms;

    • Education professionals and students specialising in psychology;

    • Startups focusing on mental health, along with their founders and key personnel;

    • Women’s organisations, NGOs, and entities creating women-centric products.

    WMHSA 2024 Agenda:

    With an inclusive audience that encompasses every stakeholder in mental health, from practitioners and organisations to media and educators, WMHSA 2024 is structured to ignite conversations, foster learning, and highlight innovative solutions through keynote sessions, industry presentations, interactive panels, and awards.

    • Keynote Addresses: Insights from leading voices in mental health including NIMHANS director Dr Pratima Murthy, Fortis National Mental Health Program’s chairperson Dr Samir Parikh, Senior Consultant Psychiatrist from Moolchand Medicity, Dr Jitender Nagpal, mental health activist Aparna Piramal Raje and IHBAS’s former director Dr Nimesh Desai.

    • Speeches/ Fireside Chats and Panel Discussions: Interactive and in-depth discussions on pivotal topics around challenges of women, mental health practitioners and the startups working in this space. Some of the key speakers & panellists include noted women rights activist Dr Ranjana Kumari, Bollywood film director Tanuja Chandra, renowned psychologist Dr Kamna Chhibber, Bharat Express News Network CMD & Editor-In-Chief Upendra Rai.

    • Awards Ceremony: Recognition of exceptional contributions to mental health by honouring individuals and organisations.

    Anticipated Outcomes:

    Anticipated to act as a catalyst for change, WMHSA 2024 aims to drive policy reforms and societal attitude shifts towards mental health. It seeks to be a nexus for networking and collaboration that can transform the mental health ecosystem in India. Participants can expect unparalleled networking opportunities, enabling cross-sectoral collaborations that are vital for the progressive transformation of the mental health ecosystem in India.

  • From Gen X to Gen Z: Booking.com decodes holiday home preferences for Indian travellers

    From Gen X to Gen Z: Booking.com decodes holiday home preferences for Indian travellers

    Mumbai: Travellers are increasingly looking for the home-away-from-home experience. From a beautiful homestay in the mountains to a serene beach villa overlooking the sea, Indians are seeking unique accommodations and immersive experiences while travelling. Booking.com, a global leader in connecting travellers with the widest choice of incredible places to stay, has released its inaugural Holiday Homes Outlook Report that delves into the unique preferences of different generations – Gen Z, Millennials and Gen X – when choosing holiday homes.

    Trends Through Generations

    When it comes to searching for a holiday home, each generation has distinct preferences and priorities While Gen X prioritises cleanliness and convenience with facilities like a kitchen, millennials prefer unique and immersive experiences with a simplified booking process. Gen Z focuses on location while selecting their holiday home as well as past and present reviews to make that choice.

    ●    Gen X (born between 1965-1980)

    ●    Gen X value cleanliness and tidiness for accommodation and they appreciate the convenience of having a well-equipped kitchenette or meal options, akin to the warmth of Indian hospitality.

    ●    Gen X travellers prioritise a reasonable and fair price (65 per cent) when choosing a homestay, prioritising budget-friendly options that offer value for money.

    ●    43 per cent state that they want more availability of homes during peak season

    ●    Additionally, nearly 39 per cent opt for country cottages as their preferred choice for holiday homes in India.

    ●    Millennials (born between 1981-1996)

    ●    Millennials seek unique stay experiences with nearly half (43 per cent) stating that they find farm stays as the most appealing option for a holiday home.

    ●    When it comes to the booking process, 51 per cent of millennials prefer a simplified and easy booking process

    ●    42 per cent prefer more options while searching for a holiday home and a broad range of different kinds of stay to choose from.

    ●    Millennials prioritise sustainability (35 per cent) when booking a homestay, preferring environmentally friendly and socially responsible accommodations.

    ●    Additionally, 52 per cent would like homestays to have no hidden costs or additional service

    ●    Gen Z (born between 1997-2012)

    ●    50 per cent of Gen Z prioritise location – proximity to beaches, local attractions and scenic views) play an important role.

    ●    Gen Z travellers gravitate towards city apartments (43 per cent) when choosing holiday homes in India.

    ●    42 per cent of Gen Z cite that being able to see past and present reviews of the property is an important factor while booking a holiday home.

    ●    Gen Z prioritises pet-friendly accommodations where travellers can bring along their furry friends.

    India’s Regional Revelations

    The demand for alternative accommodations is surging in India with travellers looking for unique properties that offer an alternative to the traditional hotel experience demonstrating continued traveller appreciation for a broad range of different kinds of stays and the unique hospitality they offer. However, regional preferences play a role, as travellers from different regions exhibit unique preferences when it comes to selecting a holiday home.

    ●    Travellers from South India prefer farm stays (46 per cent) and houseboats (38 per cent), while those living in East & Northeast India (23 per cent), as well as North and Central India (20 per cent), lean towards cosy cabins.

    ●    Travellers living in West India state that they prioritise clean and tidy accommodation (64 per cent), fair/reasonable price (66 per cent), location (63 per cent) and security of the property (62 per cent) as features they are most likely to consider when booking one type of holiday home over another.

    For the full Booking.com Holiday Home Outlook Report please visit the link here.