Mumbai: The India Brand Summit held on 28 November 2023 at The Lalit Mumbai came to its conclusion with an exclusive presentation by The Happyness Factory founder Yogesh Karikurve.
The presentation was an intriguing Hallyu case study that delved deeper into GenZ’s craze for K-pop, its rise, the fandom in India, and much more…
Mumbai: The UNESCO-Ipsos Survey on the impact of Online Disinformation and Hate Speech shows, that disinformation and fake news and hate speeches are a reality in India with 64 per cent blaming social media feeds as the biggest source of disinformation and fake news. Ironically, 1 in 2 urban Indians (56 per cent) claimed to turn to social media feeds as their top choice for news and information.
UNESCO and Ipsos decided to conduct a global survey on the impact of online disinformation and hate speech in 16 Countries where general elections are to be held in 2024 and posed questions specific to this context. Do they feel disinformation has already had an impact on political life in their country and is there concern about disinformation impacting the next campaign?
Sources of disinformation and fake news. And sources accessed for news and information
Urban Indians believe social media feeds is the widest source of disinformation and fake news (64 per cent), followed by large groups or communities or online messaging groups (42 per cent), media websites/ media mobile apps (23 per cent), television (17 per cent), in-person/ online discussions with family members, friends or colleagues (17 per cent), newspapers or news magazines (11 per cent) and radio (four per cent).
Interestingly, in spite of being aware of the pitfalls of turning to social media feeds, as it is perceived to be the widest purveyor of disinformation and fake news, paradoxically, one in two urban Indians (56 per cent) claimed to turn to social media feeds as a top choice for news and information. Followed by television (42 per cent), newspapers or news magazines (37 per cent), media websites or media mobile apps (24 per cent), large groups or communities on online messaging apps (17 per cent), in-person or online discussions with family members, friends or colleagues (seven per cent) and radio (six per cent).
Hate Speeches
At least 85 per cent of urban Indians polled claimed to have come across often, online content that seemed like hate speech. Across all 16 markets, Indians came across hate speech the most, followed by citizens of Bangladesh (84 per cent).
Hate speeches can be found on social networks, comment sections of articles, in instant messaging. And can target individuals or groups of people (ethnic, racial, religious minorities, LGBTQ+ and people with disabilities.
Biggest victims of hate speech on social media across 16 countries were LGBT+ people (33 per cent), ethnic/ racial minorities (28 per cent), women (18 per cent), religious minorities (17 per cent), the poorest members of society (17 per cent), overweight persons (13 per cent), people with mental health issues (12 per cent) etc.
Trust and safety measures on social media during elections
Broad approval (among citizens across 16 markets) for governments and regulators requring social media platforms to put in place trust and safety measures during election campaigns, to safeguard the sanctity of elections. 93 per cent of urban Indians polled endorse this view.
Summarizing on the findings of the survey, Ipsos India CEO Amit Adarkar said, “The UNESCO-Ipsos survey is pertinent as India is among the 16 markets that go into the general elections in 2024. Social Media Feeds while being accessed for breaking news and for information, is perceived to be fraught with disinformation and fake news believe majority of urban Indians polled. There is a strong case for guardrails and govt and regulators need to ensure social media platforms implement trust and safety measures during the general elections given the risk it poses for disinformation and fake news.”
“Social media is like a loose cannon, can cause immense damage to reputation and credibility especially during the elections. All the hate spewed is also unfettered,” added Adarkar.
Mumbai: Red Dot Representations, is excited to unveil an innovative Vietnam visa service specially tailored to cater to the diverse needs of travel trade partners including B2B agents, event and wedding planners, and MICE professionals, etc., regarding bulk bookings. This groundbreaking service is set to simplify the process of helping them process bulk visa requests seamlessly with reduced turn-around time, cost-effectiveness, and high efficiency. This move helps Red Dot Representations’ travel trade partners to garner more mice, BLeisure and wedding-related inquiries to the aspirational destination Vietnam.
To avail of the streamlined visa service, the travel trade partners will only have to provide Red Dot Representations with the travellers’ passport-size photograph against a white background without glasses; and clear scanned copies of their passport’s front and back pages. Red Dot Representation will provide a hassle-free experience for bulk visa processing of their travel trade partners’ diverse clientele needs be it weddings or events in Vietnam. As part of the services, Red Dot Representations also provides the option of visa-on-arrival, which further adds flexibility and convenience to the package.
Vietnam has increasingly become a sought-after destination for Indian travellers due to its harmonious blend of seamless transfers, top-notch hospitality, a rich land of historical and contemporary attractions, a vibrant culture, diverse culinary experiences, and burgeoning opportunities in the MICE sector. The country’s well-structured transportation networks, including well-connected airports and modern roadways, ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience within Vietnam.
Red Dot Representations vice-president Prabhakar Kamat said “Our mission is to craft memorable travel experiences for Indian travellers. As Vietnam is poised to welcome Indian businesses for MICE and as destination weddings in Vietnam are increasingly gaining traction too, we are witnessing the demand for bulk visa services on the rise from the Indian travel market. Facilitating our travel trade partners with a simplified solution, we at Red Dot Representations have streamlined the cumbersome and time-consuming visa acquisition process with our cost-effective, hassle-free approach. With the initiative, we are sure that our travel trade partners will inspire more Indian travellers to explore the captivating beauty of Vietnam, leading to lasting memories and unforgettable adventures.”
The burgeoning Vietnamese tourism industry thrives on its commitment to top-quality hospitality, offering a wide range of luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, and resorts that cater to the diverse tastes and preferences of Indian travellers. The warm and hospitable nature of the Vietnamese people ensures that tourists feel right at home. The country’s rich cultural heritage is unveiled through ancient temples, historic cities, and engaging museums, providing a glimpse into its fascinating history.
Vietnam offers an array of diverse experiences that Indian travellers can savour during their visit. From the vibrant streets of Hanoi and the picturesque landscapes of Halong Bay to the serene charm of Hoi An and the dynamic energy of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam presents a wide array of both modern and historical attractions. Travellers can explore the lush Vietnamese countryside, relax on stunning beaches, or immerse themselves in vibrant city life, making it a destination that caters to every traveller’s preferences.
Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage and its diverse cuisine are also a big draw for Indian tourists. Travellers can immerse themselves in the beauty of traditional Vietnamese music, dance, and art, while the culinary journey through Vietnamese street food and gourmet restaurants is a sensory delight. Moreover, Vietnam’s flourishing MICE sector offers excellent opportunities for business meetings, conferences, and incentives in world-class facilities and settings.
The hassle-free bulk visa services for Vietnam underline Red Dot Representations’ steadfast commitment to making travel more accessible, efficient, and enjoyable for all stakeholders in the travel industry.
Mumbai: Changing Tree, a prominent Bengaluru-based creative and technology company, in collaboration with Ralph & Das, proudly released a start-studded digital campaign with Angad Bedi & Neha Dhupia at the core, to announce a new fragrance range from IRIS Home Fragrances and re-define gifting this festive season.
Changing Tree played a pivotal role in amplifying the campaign across the digital landscape. The collaborative effort between Changing Tree, Ralph & Das and IRIS has set a new standard for creativity and technology integration in the home fragrance industry.
Known for their cutting-edge solutions and forward-thinking approach, Changing Tree has brought a unique blend of creativity and technology to enhance the reach and resonance of the campaign. Leveraging their expertise, Changing Tree provided innovative strategies and digital solutions that captivated audiences and elevated the overall brand impact.
“We’re thrilled to partner with IRIS home fragrances and the team from the partner agency in making this campaign a success,” said Changing Tree founder & CEO Idrees. “Our team is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of creativity and technology, and this collaboration allowed us to create a campaign that not only stands out in the market but also provides an immersive experience for consumers.”
The success of the campaign highlights the effectiveness of synergising creative design and technology in the realm of home fragrances. By fusing Changing Tree’s ingenuity with the aromatic excellence of IRIS home fragrances, the campaign not only reached a broader audience but also garnered heightened engagement and positive feedback.
On this occasion, celebrity couple Angad Bedi and Neha Dhupia said, “We’re delighted to be a part of this collaboration which holds a special place in our hearts. Our shared values resonate with the brand’s ethos, making this partnership truly meaningful. As we embrace this festive season, it brings us immense joy to celebrate it together. In the season of Diwali, we extend our warmest wishes for a joyous and prosperous celebration to everyone.”
Ripple Fragrances managing director and master fragrance creator Kiran Ranga said, “Iris’ collaboration with Neha Dhupia and Angad Bedi has been a cornerstone of our campaign’s success. Their contributions have truly captured the essence of our brand. We’re excited about this partnership and grateful to Changing Tree and Ralph and Das for enhancing and promoting our brand so effectively.”
Mumbai: Initiating a journey through the wintry wonderland, IKEA India’s new collection encapsulates the essence of the season, bringing forth a seamless blend between Scandinavian design and Indian warmth. The VINTERFINT collection encourages all to embrace the joy of the festive season with its exquisite range of decor, and accessories meticulously crafted to transform spaces into cozy sanctuaries. The collection consists of 200 plus products ranging from Christmas trees to decorative baubles and ornaments, to elegant glassware pieces and table runners. This collection is a one-stop shop to all your festive needs as each piece is a testament to IKEA’s commitment to and celebration of cultural diversity.
1) VINTERFINT Wall Decoration | Price- Rs. 699
The VINTERFINT wall hanging is a unique and versatile alternative to the traditional Christmas tree, offering a minimalist yet stylish approach to holiday decor. Crafted with wooden bamboo joints, its simplicity allows for various customization options. Whether you prefer a minimalist look with bare joints highlighted by a single strip of lights or a more festive appearance adorned with small baubles, the design accommodates diverse styling preferences. What makes this piece truly stand out is its adaptability. Beyond traditional decorations, one can explore unconventional ideas such as hanging photos or other personal memorabilia, allowing for a more sentimental and personalized touch to the holiday setup. This versatility opens up a realm of creative possibilities, making it an ideal addition not just for the main living area but also as an exceptional finishing touch in the guest bedroom during the holiday hosting season.
2) VINTERFINT Artificial Christmas Tree | Price- Rs. 3,990
This tree represents the epitome of convenience and everlasting charm. It radiates the season’s traditional green hue, signifying the holiday spirit, and serving as a timeless centerpiece for festive celebrations year after year. Crafted with immense attention to detail, it offers a needle-free guarantee and ensures a mess-free environment while exuding the authentic look of a real tree. What sets this tree apart is not just its lifelike appearance but also its practicality. Its design optimizes storage space, making it the ideal choice for those seeking both elegance and functionality. Place it wherever you wish, and start decorating!
3) VINTERFINT Throw | Price- Rs. 2,190
The VINTERFINT Throw embodies the essence of everyday indulgence and comfort, elevating moments of relaxation with its softness and warmth. Crafted to offer a cocoon of coziness, this throw invites you to snuggle up on your sofa, providing peace and comfort amidst everyday’s hustle and bustle. Its plush texture and gentle embrace wrap you in a blanket of luxury, offering solace and relaxation as you unwind. What adds to the allure of this throw is its versatility; it seamlessly integrates with various decor styles, effortlessly enhancing the ambiance of any living space.
4) VINTERFINT Decoration Bauble | Price- Rs. 1,890
This collection of 12 ornaments is a delightful blend of elegance and festive charm, designed to enhance the beauty of your Christmas tree. Consisting of 4 sets of matching colours, each set boasts 3 distinct shapes, creating a harmonious variety that adds visual appeal to your holiday decor. These ornaments possess a surface texture remindful of powdered snow, evoking the nostalgic magic of a winter wonderland.
5) VINTERFINT Artificial wreath | Price- Rs. 1,190
The decorative wreath is an incredibly versatile ornament that complements all settings within your home. It seamlessly adorns not just the front door but also the walls, windowsills, or can even act as a centerpiece on your table, evoking a festive ambiance wherever it’s placed. Despite being artificial, its realistic appearance mimics the freshness of natural plants without the concern of withering or fading over time.
6) VINTERFINT Cushion cover | Price- Rs. 449
The design of this cushion cover exudes a charm, resembling the intricate beauty of a snowstorm against a dark winter night. The woven pattern intricately captures the essence of swirling snowflakes dancing amidst the darkness, creating a mesmerizing visual effect. When placed on your sofa or any seating area, this cushion cover instantly becomes a stunning focal point, drawing attention and admiration.
7) VINTERFINT Artificial potted plant | Price- Rs. 799
This floral arrangement serves as a wonderful addition to infuse your home with a warm and cozy Christmas ambiance. Featuring vibrant shades of fresh red and evergreen, it effortlessly captures the spirit of the holiday season. The combination of these traditional Christmas colours evokes a sense of nostalgia and joy, instantly transforming any space into a festive haven. Crafted with quality and care, it serves as a timeless decoration that maintains its freshness and allure year after year. The choice of fresh red blooms and evergreen not only represents the classic colours of Christmas but also symbolizes life, vitality, and everlasting beauty.
8) VINTERFINT Decoration, Santa Claus | Price- Rs. 999
Santa Claus holds a significant place in the hearts of many during Christmas, the presence of whom is synonymous with joy, tradition, and the spirit of giving. Beyond being a mere ornament, this Santa Claus figure embodies the essence of the holiday season, serving as a touch of whimsy and tradition to your home decor, while evoking nostalgia and creating a merry ambiance.
You can check the collection on IKEA India’s website or experience them in your nearest store.
Mumbai: Boutique Living, a premier name in the world of luxury home decor and furnishings, is delighted to announce the much-anticipated launch of its exclusive “Caressa Collection,” in collaboration with the multi-talented and celebrated poet and entrepreneur, Priya Malik.
The “Caressa Collection” is a testament to the artistry of design and the power of poetic inspiration. This unique collaboration melds the creative forces of Boutique Living and Priya Malik, bringing together their shared vision of combining elegance, luxury, and emotional depth in the world of interior decor.
“We are thrilled to introduce the ‘Caressa Collection,’ a reflection of both beauty and emotion. Each piece in this collection is a work of art, designed to evoke a sense of serenity and poetry within your living spaces,” said Indo Count Industries Ltd president domestic retail Rajiv Merchant.
Priya Malik, truly believes in nature and sustainability and that’s why we felt that she was the perfect fit to become the creative force behind this collection. By drawing inspiration from her poetic spirit we intend to infuse each piece of the Caressa Collection with her unique perspective. “This collaboration has been a dream come true. I believe that poetry and art can elevate our daily lives, and the ‘Caressa Collection’ captures the essence of this belief. It’s about surrounding ourselves with beauty that also tells a story,” expressed Priya Malik.
Featuring a diverse range of understated designs inspired by global design sensibilities, this collection draws inspiration from the timeless charm of American homes. The bed sheet sets offer a classic, enduring look that transcends trends. Additionally, the collection includes Dohars that embody superior softness and style, courtesy of the incorporation of TENCEL fiber.
The Caressa Collection is now available on Boutique Living’s website and through major retailers like Shoppers Stop, Home Stop, Lulu Hyper and leading multi-brand furnishing outlets across India. Our bed sheets are of thread counts ranging from 200 to 500 tc, and they are priced from 2299 (for king-size double bed- sheet sets) onwards.
For more information and to explore the Caressa Collection, please visit www.boutiquelivingindia.com.
Mumbai: DTDC Express Ltd, India’s leading integrated express logistics company, joins ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) to revolutionise e-commerce logistics in India and empower sellers on the network by leveraging emerging technologies. The move underlines DTDC’s commitment towards local businesses and small e-commerce sellers by ensuring access to the required tools and support in the largely evolving digital landscape.
As DTDC Express Ltd onboards the ONDC Network, it aims to further enhance its positioning as a leader in providing cutting-edge logistics services. In a first-of-its-kind ONDC ecosystem, DTDC plans to leverage its expertise in Express and standard B2C deliveries on the back of a stable and reliable network connecting different parts of the country. Through robust engagement with ONDC’s Network of 1.5 L sellers and small- entrepreneurs, DTDC Express Ltd, with its massive physical network of 15,000 channel partners serving 96 per cent of the Indian population, aspires to achieve 1500 – 2000 shipments per day by the end of this year and continue to scale further.
DTDC going live on ONDC will act as a catalyst for the cutting-edge service offerings that DTDC Express Ltd has launched or has in the pipeline, including next-day delivery, pick up and drop off (PUDO), and QC-enabled reverse logistics. Additionally, various e-commerce operations, including order management, inventory tracking, and payment processing, will be simplified, enabling the express logistics company to ensure a smooth and efficient logistics process for various sellers on the Network. DTDC’s operations for ONDC live in 5000 plus pin codes, serving 100 plus tier 1, 2 and 3 cities based on the demand pattern.
“ONDC’s vision is to create a truly inclusive e-commerce ecosystem wherein every seller, regardless of size, presence, and location, can access equal trading opportunities. With DTDC live on ONDC Network, we are a step closer to this reality,” said ONDC MD & CEO T Koshy.
DTDC India executive director Abhishek Chakraborty said, “Our collaboration with ONDC signifies our vision to redefine the logistics paradigm, creating opportunities for growth for businesses of all scales in alignment with the evolving digital commerce ecosystem. Having said this, the focus will be on accommodating the growing demands of SMEs, small businesses, entrepreneurs, and local sellers, enabling end-to-end integrated logistics solutions that empower businesses even in the remotest corners of India.”
With its vision to become the most admired logistics provider in the country through the ONDC Network, DTDC Express Ltd will be going live on all 14,700 plus pin codes in the next phase. It will continue to ensure a secure and reliable logistics Network, reinforcing the trustworthiness of the entire e-commerce process.
Mumbai: IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Ltd a private life insurer, continues to support its former employee and Kenyan international cricketer – Pushkar Sharma. The all-rounder is part of the Kenya squad, currently featuring in the Africa Regional Qualifier for the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup, in Namibia. The organisation’s backing will enable Pushkar to pursue his quest of playing the sport at the highest level.
IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Ltd chief risk officer Sunder Natarajan said, “We are proud of our ongoing association with Pushkar Sharma, as we continue supporting him in his cricket journey. His dedication, talent, and the values he personifies resonate with our commitment to nurturing excellence. As Pushkar embarks on the ICC T20 World Cup qualification journey with Kenya, we stand by him, confident that he will make significant contributions both on and off the field. Pushkar’s success reflects the shared belief and dedication between IndiaFirst Life and him.”
Pushkar Sharma said, “I am grateful to IndiaFirst Life for their pivotal role in my cricket journey. Their sponsorship and mentorship propelled me to where I am today. IndiaFirst Life’s support, a guiding light in tough times, reflects the values of an organisation dedicated to nurturing talent. I am committed to making them proud, in every sphere of the game. Qualifying for the ICC T20 World Cup with Kenya will be a testament to the collective belief invested in me by IndiaFirst Life.”
A former Mumbai U16s captain, Pushkar made his international debut in 2022 after he moved to Kenya for better playing opportunities. His performances in the Kenyan domestic circuit have been a force to reckon with this season. The left-hand batter’s selection for the World Cup qualifiers was aided by his dominating performance in the 2023 Nairobi Provincial Cricket Association (NPCA) super division 50 overs league. He finished as the league’s second-best batter with 730 runs in just 14 innings.
Kenya faces Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, and hosts Namibia in the continental tournament, which runs until 30 November. Only two sides from the seven-team qualifiers qualify for the world event slated to take place in the West Indies and the USA between 4 and 30 June 2024.
Mumbai: Uber has launched ‘Uber Pro’ – a rewards program inspired by drivers and designed to help them reach their goals – both on and off the road. Uber Pro provides drivers with new ways to earn, more options and support, and deeper discounts on what keeps them moving. It has been launched with exciting rewards, perks, and exclusive features across 12 Indian cities, including Mumbai. By rewarding drivers with good customer rating (above 4.8) and low trip cancellations, this program aims to elevate overall platform experience by making every trip magical for riders and drivers alike.
Commenting on the launch of Uber Pro in India, Uber India & South Asia director – operations Shiva Shailendran said, “Drivers are at the heart of what we do at Uber. We are committed to providing a great ride experience for a rider and driver each time they choose Uber. Uber Pro rewards drivers who provide a great service to riders by maintaining a high app rating and low trip cancellations. It will go a long way in promoting the adaptation and continued use of the Uber platform by top-rated drivers who have made us #IndiaKiRide over the last 10 years, and will improve the overall experience on the Uber app.”
Uber Pro has four tiers: Blue, Gold, Platinum and Diamond, with Diamond being the highest possible tier. A driver who is new on the platform starts with a Blue tier status and moves upwards by earning ‘points’ on every completed trip and meeting other criteria. The points reset every 3 months, so the drivers’ tier status is determined on a rolling period of 3 months. As drivers move towards a higher tier status, they get access to exclusive perks and experiential rewards offered by third parties, such as discounted vehicle maintenance and motor insurance, and microcredit offerings etc.
Uber Pro benefits
Drivers who were able to maintain the top rating ‘Diamond’ for a full quarter were given a cash reward of Rs 10,000/-. Top-tier drivers from diamond and platinum tiers also got access to exclusive experiential rewards including those mentioned below.
Area Preference: For two hours every day, drivers were able to choose to get trips from an area of their choice. This gave them flexibility to drive in their preferred area.
Priority support: In case they needed support, these drivers could skip the queue at Uber greenlight centers and received special attention from top support agents on priority.
Automatic Premier Eligibility: Eligible drivers also got upgraded to get ‘Premier’ trips on the Uber app. With a combination of Go and Premier trips, drivers not only had a chance to receive more trip requests, but also received more high-value trip requests with premier.
Along with drivers in Platinum and Diamond tiers, Gold tier drivers also received a 30 per cent extra discount vs. market price on Castrol vehicle PMS. Drivers from all tiers were eligible to access differential enhanced microcredit limits (up to Rs 20k, Rs 15k, Rs 10k, and Rs 8k, for Diamond, Platinum, Gold, and Blue tiers respectively). These microcredits are cash credits provided by a third party, facilitated by Uber, that help drivers achieve life goals such as supporting their children’s education or contributing to house expenses, etc. All Uber Pro drivers were also eligible for discounted premiums for life, health, and motor insurance.
Riders will be able to see the tier status of a driver on booking an Uber and drivers will be able to track their progress on the Uber app. The program is currently live in 12 cities including Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Pune, Hyderabad, Delhi NCR, Kolkata, Lucknow, Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, Guwahati and Jaipur. Uber plans to roll this out to more cities in the near future.
Disclaimer: Rewards vary by location and Uber Pro status of the driver, and are subject to change. Rewards described here may not be available in all cities where Uber Pro is available. Additional limitations and exclusions apply. See terms and conditions for complete details.
Mumbai: The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) facilitated the presence of 24 esteemed Australian wineries at ProWine Mumbai this year – the largest ever Australian wine delegation to India. This initiative was delivered in partnership with the state governments of South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and Western Australia with the support of Wine Australia.
Known for their bold innovation, unique environments, and over 100 quality grape varieties, Australian wines are redefining the beverage landscape. Breaking free from tradition, each sip promises a distinctive experience. The timing couldn’t be better for Australian wines in India. The Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) entered into force on 29 December 2022 and has already seen the 150% tariff on Australian wine over US$5 per bottle (CIF) substantially reduced, with further reductions over the next eight years. In about a months’ time, premium Australian wines will see another round of phased tariff cuts making Australian wines a great proposition for Indian wine importers.
The Australia-India Business Exchange program – or AIBX – aims to raise awareness of commercial opportunities among Indian and Australian businesses and to provide practical support for Australian businesses with market entry and expansion. The tagline of AIBX is ‘partnering for prosperity’ – and Austrade has chosen that deliberately to reflect the importance of two-way partnerships driving growth in both our economies.
“We are proud to bring a great variety of Australian wines to ProWine Mumbai this year,” shared Trade, and investment commissioner (Agrifood) John Southwell.
“This event was a testament to the thriving partnership between Australia and India, fostering trade and cultural exchange. We have delivered an immersive experience, showcasing the diversity and excellence of Australian wines that are fit for the Indian palate to support the continued development of India’s thriving wine food and wine scene – and the businesses that support them.”
ProWine has seen some great examples of these thriving partnerships beginning, including two Victorian wineries Zilzie Wines and Rathbone Wine Group securing partnerships with Indian distributors to bring their wonderous wines to Indian consumers.