ITV

Category: Marketing

  • Inka launches India’s first AI voice assistant for insurance buyers

    Inka launches India’s first AI voice assistant for insurance buyers

    MUMBAI: When insurance starts talking back, you know disruption has arrived. Inka, India’s digital-first insurance distribution platform, has unveiled Vaani, the country’s first voice AI assistant in the sector and it promises to turn policy planning from paperwork into conversation.

    Built on Google’s Gemini AI, Vaani doesn’t stop at basic Q&As. Instead, it draws on more than 2,400 data points to understand a user’s life stage, health profile, aspirations, and finances before suggesting tailored plans. From health, life, and term insurance to cancer and cardiac covers, long-term savings instruments, and child planning solutions, Vaani ensures every recommendation feels uniquely yours.

    What makes Vaani stand out is its voice-first, multilingual interface. Consumers can chat with it naturally in English, Hindi, Marathi, with Telugu support on the way. By ditching jargon and answering the questions people didn’t even know to ask, it makes insurance feel less like a sales pitch and more like a trusted advisor whispering in your ear.

    Beyond real-time analysis, Vaani can guide users through complex policy comparisons and even book expert consultations, all triggered by a simple voice command. Currently available on the Inkasure platform across desktop and mobile, the pilot rollout aims to refine user experience before a national launch.

    “In a market where buying insurance often feels overwhelming, Vaani represents a giant leap,” said an Inka spokesperson. “It’s about trust, utility, and empowering customers to make informed choices.”

    With insurance penetration in India still hovering around 4 per cent of GDP, the launch signals a bold step to bridge the trust gap and widen access. And with Vaani’s ability to cut through complexity, Indians might finally find their policies speaking their language.

  • New Trends in Eligibility for Loan Against Property Applications Revealed

    New Trends in Eligibility for Loan Against Property Applications Revealed

    In today’s evolving financial ecosystem, a loan against property (LAP) has become one of the most reliable instruments for accessing large sums of money. Whether it is for expanding a business, funding higher education, meeting medical emergencies, or consolidating debts, property-backed loans provide borrowers with high-value financing at relatively lower interest rates compared to unsecured loans. However, just as financial institutions continue to innovate their offerings, they are also redefining the way they assess and approve applications. The eligibility for loan against property is no longer confined to traditional metrics like income and property value alone. New trends are reshaping the approval landscape, giving more individuals and businesses an opportunity to secure funding. This article delves into the latest changes in eligibility criteria, what borrowers should prepare for, and how these evolving trends can impact loan approval in the future.

    Traditional Eligibility Framework: A Quick Recap

    Traditionally, lenders considered a few fundamental aspects when evaluating a borrower’s eligibility:

    1.    Age of the Applicant – Salaried individuals typically had to fall within the age bracket of 25–60 years, while self-employed professionals could go up to 65 years.  
    2.    Income Stability – Proof of steady income through salary slips, bank statements, or audited financials for self-employed individuals.  
    3.    Property Valuation – The loan amount was primarily linked to the property’s current market value, usually allowing borrowers to avail 50–70% of its worth when applying for a property loan.  
    4.    Credit Score – A healthy CIBIL score above 700 was considered essential for approval.

    While these parameters remain important, lenders today are incorporating additional considerations to provide a more holistic assessment.

    New Trends in Eligibility for Loan Against Property

    1. Digital Footprint Consideration  
    Financial institutions are increasingly analyzing digital financial behavior to assess creditworthiness. Online transaction patterns, timely payment of utility bills, and digital credit records are being factored in alongside traditional credit scores. This trend benefits applicants with limited credit history but strong digital financial discipline.

    2. Expanded Age Limits  
    Many lenders are becoming more flexible with age restrictions. For instance, older self-employed applicants beyond 65 are being considered, especially if they have a strong business cash flow or adequate property value. This inclusivity reflects the reality of longer working lives and entrepreneurship beyond retirement age.

    3. Inclusion of Non-Salaried Income Sources  
    Previously, income from part-time work, rental earnings, or freelance engagements was often ignored. Today, lenders are accepting diverse income streams, acknowledging the gig economy and multiple-income households. This shift broadens the pool of eligible applicants significantly.

    4. Higher Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratios  
    Some financial institutions are now willing to sanction loans of up to 75–80% of a property’s value, especially in urban areas with high real estate demand. This helps borrowers unlock greater liquidity from their assets.

    5. Customized Eligibility for Women Borrowers  
    To encourage financial independence, lenders are introducing relaxed terms for women applicants. These may include lower interest rates, flexible repayment options, and quicker approval timelines.

    6. Focus on Business Potential for Self-Employed Individuals  
    Instead of just looking at past income records, lenders are increasingly evaluating the future potential of businesses. For example, start-ups or MSMEs with strong growth prospects and healthy order books may find it easier to secure loans even without long financial histories.

    7. Use of Alternate Data for Credit Assessment  
    Lenders are gradually embracing alternative data, such as rental payment history, insurance premium payments, or mobile wallet usage. This trend especially benefits first-time borrowers or those with thin credit profiles.

    8. Green Property Preference  
    Sustainability trends are making their way into financial services too. Borrowers pledging eco-friendly or energy-efficient properties are being rewarded with better terms, reflecting a global push toward sustainable finance.

    What Borrowers Should Keep in Mind

    As eligibility norms diversify, borrowers should proactively prepare to enhance their chances of approval:

    ●    Maintain a Clean Financial Record: Pay EMIs, credit card dues, and utility bills on time to build a positive financial footprint.  
    ●    Document All Income Sources: Whether rental, freelance, or part-time, having verifiable documentation for all streams strengthens your application.  
    ●    Leverage Technology: Use digital payment methods and maintain transparent financial transactions, as these are now being tracked by lenders.  
    ●    Choose the Right Property: If your property is in a prime location or adheres to green-building standards, it may help you negotiate better terms.  
    ●    Check Your LTV Ratio: Be aware of the current market value of your property and how much of it you can realistically expect as a loan.

    The Future of Loan Against Property Eligibility

    The landscape of eligibility for loan against property is expected to evolve even further with the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in credit assessment. Predictive analytics will allow lenders to forecast repayment capacity with greater precision, reducing risks and enabling faster approvals. Additionally, blockchain technology could bring unprecedented transparency in property valuation and ownership verification, making the process smoother for borrowers and lenders alike.

    Financial inclusion is at the heart of these changes. By moving beyond rigid eligibility norms, lenders are ensuring that more individuals and businesses—especially those in the unorganized sector or with unconventional income structures—gain access to much-needed financing.

    Conclusion

    The changing trends in eligibility for loan against property applications signify a broader shift in the financial industry toward inclusivity, innovation, and customer-centric approaches. From recognizing non-traditional income sources to considering digital footprints and even the eco-friendliness of pledged properties, lenders are adapting to the realities of modern financial life.

    For borrowers, this means greater opportunities—but also a greater responsibility to maintain transparency, financial discipline, and proper documentation. By staying informed about these evolving trends, individuals and businesses can better position themselves to secure property-backed loans with favorable terms, unlocking the full potential of their assets in the process.  
     

  • How to Compare Best Health Insurance Policies Using Online Tools

    How to Compare Best Health Insurance Policies Using Online Tools

    When you choose a health insurance plan or renew an existing one, how do you determine that it’s the right one for you? You might rely on an agent’s advice or ask a family member or friend. But are these insurance policies truly the right fit for you?

    A health insurance premium calculator can help you choose the best health insurance plan for your needs. It can show you which plans cover hospitals near you, which ones offer maternity coverage, and which ones won’t break the bank. So, using this tool correctly can be very helpful, but you need to know how to use it effectively. Let’s see how to do that.

    Why Comparing Health Insurance Online is Smarter?

    Back in the day, if you wanted medical insurance, you had to meet agents, read brochures full of technical words, and then hope you didn’t miss a hidden clause. Today, you can sit on your couch, open your laptop, and see ten different health insurance plans lined up like products in an online store. So, why is this better? Because:

    ● You don’t rely only on what an agent tells you.

    ● You can compare premiums and benefits side by side.

    ● You see exclusions clearly instead of in fine print.

    It’s just like shopping online or booking a hotel. Nobody calls ten airlines anymore, although we check online. Health insurance should work the same way.

    What Really Matters While Comparing Plans

    The truth is that not every shiny feature matters. A good policy is one that actually protects you when something goes wrong. While browsing online tools, you should be focused on:

    ●    Coverage (Sum Insured): Does it cover realistic hospital bills in your city?

    ●    Cashless hospitals: If your go-to hospital isn’t on the list, it’s a headache later.

    ●    Claim settlement ratio: Higher numbers mean fewer claim rejections.

    ●    Add-ons: Maternity, critical illness, room rent flexibility, if you really need them.

    ●    Premium vs Benefits: Cheapest is not always best.

    If you only remember one thing, it’s this balance cost with coverage. Don’t be tempted by low premiums if it means compromising on actual protection.

    A Quick Walkthrough Using an Online Tool

    Let’s say you’re 32, married, with one child. You open a comparison website. It asks for details like age, city, and number of family members. You fill that in, and within seconds, you see multiple mediclaim policy options.

    Now you notice something interesting:

    Feature Policy 1 Policy 2 Policy 3
    Sum Insured ₹5 lakh ₹10 lakh ₹10 lakh
    Cashless Network 4,200+ 6,000+ 5,800+
    Maternity Cover No Yes Yes
    Premium (Yearly) ₹6,800 ₹9,500 ₹10,200

    At first glance, Policy 1 looks attractive because it’s cheap. But then you realise it doesn’t cover maternity or have as many cashless hospitals. If your family is expanding, that’s a red flag. Policy 2 or 3 might be the better choice long term.

    This is precisely why online tools help you to find the best health insurance plans. You’d probably miss these details if you were only talking to one insurance agent.

    Don’t Skip the “Exclusions” Section

    Most people skim through the benefits and ignore exclusions. Big mistake. Some health insurance plans don’t cover pre-existing diseases for the first 2 – 3 years. Others may exclude specific treatments like cataract surgery or joint replacement.

    When you buy health insurance online, every comparison site has an “exclusions” button or tab. Don’t skip it. It may not be exciting to read, but knowing what’s not covered is as important as knowing what is.

    Buying Online After Comparison

    Once you’ve shortlisted, buying health insurance online has its perks:

    ●    Time saving: Instant policy issuance (no waiting for paperwork).

    ●    Discounts: Some insurers give lower premiums if you buy directly online.

    ●    Transparency: you get all details in writing, no half-truths.

    ●    24/7 access: you can compare and buy anytime.

    Many people get a full mediclaim policy issued in less than 15 minutes online, no queues, no files, no hassle.

    So here are some main overview points that you have to keep in mind when comparing before you buy health insurance plans for family by using any online tool:

    ●    Evaluate your personal and family health requirements

    ●    Select a trusted online comparison tool

    ●    Check key features and coverage details of each plan

    ●    Understand what’s covered and what’s not

    ●    Look into claim history and settlement performance

    ●    Consider policy terms and optional add-on benefits

    ●    Directly compare multiple plans to spot differences easily

    Final Thoughts

    Honestly, picking the right health insurance isn’t as scary as it sounds. Many people just renew the same policy every year without even checking if it still works for them, and later regret it when bills pile up. Using an online comparison tool is super simple. You just spend a few minutes, see which plan covers what, check premiums, and figure out if it actually fits your family. That tiny effort can save a lot of stress later.

    When your renewal comes around, don’t just click “pay.” Take a moment, breathe, and see if your plan still makes sense. Look at the coverage, the hospitals included, maybe even check a rider or two. A few minutes now can keep you from scrambling when medical costs hit unexpectedly.

  • Kantar Insights & Airtel bag top honour at MRSI’s 33rd research seminar

    Kantar Insights & Airtel bag top honour at MRSI’s 33rd research seminar

    MUMBAI: Held in Mumbai, the event crowned Kantar Insights and Bharti Airtel Ltd as winners for their paper, ‘Reconstructing Bharat: A scientific approach to estimating India’s population demographics at a district level.’ The research tackled the challenge of building a sharper, district-level picture of India’s vast and varied population.

    The runner-up slots went to Knowledge Excel for ‘Guardians of the survey: Fighting fraud to protect research integrity and data quality benchmarking’ and to Zee Entertainment Enterprises with Third Eye Integrated Services for ‘Streaming the paradox: Gen Z and the intergenerational remix.’

    This year’s theme, ‘The Power of And’ attracted over 100 submissions, with 22 shortlisted papers presented on stage.

    The seminar opened with a keynote by Ministry of statistics & programme implementation, secretary, dr Saurabh Garg, who underlined the importance of data-driven policymaking in India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat. He highlighted innovations in AI, machine learning, and geospatial data as tools that are strengthening decision-making.

    Panels through the day kept conversations lively, from the ‘Joys and dilemmas of insight in the age of technology’ to candid discussions on how brands can authentically connect with India’s cultural and economic diversity.

    MRSI, president, Nitin Kamat set the tone and said, “The industry must embrace integration between technology and creativity, data and human stories, clients and agencies to shape the future of market research.”

    Committee chair Rituparna Dasgupta added, “The diversity of ideas, from academic breakthroughs to brand case studies, reflects the ambition of India’s insights industry.”

    With thought leaders from healthcare, hospitality, FMCG, and media in attendance, the seminar reinforced MRSI’s role as the beating heart of India’s research ecosystem and a champion of ethical, future-ready insights.

     

  • Nushrratt goes au naturel as face of Oshea’s herbal beauty mission

    Nushrratt goes au naturel as face of Oshea’s herbal beauty mission

    MUMBAI: When movie star Nushrratt Bharuccha says yes, she does it with her skin in the game. The actress has been named the new brand ambassador for Oshea Herbals, one of India’s most trusted herbal personal care names, in a move that blends glamour with green goodness.

    For more than a decade, Oshea has been crafting nature-led, science-backed personal care across skincare, haircare, bath, body, and professional ranges. With over 450 products to its credit, the brand has built its reputation on authenticity, safety, and quality qualities it believes Nushrratt embodies to perfection.

    Oshea Herbals CEO & MD Jeetendra Kumar Kundalia calls her “modern, relatable, and confidently real,” while co-founder Yash Kundalia believes her energy will help spark a deeper connection with today’s generation.

    The actress herself is equally upbeat: “I’ve always admired how Oshea channels the power of nature into wonderful products. What resonates most with me is their simplicity and honesty. It’s not just about skincare, it’s about embracing who you are.”

    The partnership will see Nushrratt fronting Oshea’s campaigns across television, print, digital, and on-ground activations, bringing the brand’s “simple, safe, and real” philosophy closer to millions of Indian homes.

    For Oshea, this isn’t just another star endorsement, it’s a reminder that timeless beauty lies not in filters, but in nature’s own formulas. And with Nushrratt in the picture, that story looks set to glow brighter.

  • Policybazaar for Business adds medical stalwarts to advisory board

    Policybazaar for Business adds medical stalwarts to advisory board

    MUMBAI: Policybazaar for Business, the corporate arm of one of India’s largest insurance platforms, has bolstered its advisory board by bringing in three distinguished leaders from the medical fraternity: air marshal (retd) dr Rajesh Vaidya, dr Arun Gupta, and dr Mohit Mathur.

    The move strengthens the company’s focus on Professional Indemnity (PI) for doctors: a cover still under-penetrated in India despite rising medico-legal cases, AI-driven diagnostics, and evolving patient rights. It also enriches Policybazaar for Business’ Employee Health & Wellness vertical, particularly in preventive care, compliance, and critical illness management.

    The new members bring diverse expertise: AVSM, VSM, air marshal (retd) and former DG medical services (air) dr Rajesh Vaidya, who managed healthcare delivery for over 1.5 lakh personnel across 100 plus facilities. A decorated officer and reformer, he pioneered large-scale health programmes and worked with the WHO on public health strategy.

    Delhi Medical Council, former president, Dr Arun Gupta, with over 4,000 medico-legal cases adjudicated: A leading authority on ethics and compliance, he has delivered 600 plus lectures shaping discourse on medical law and litigation risk.

    Veteran anaesthesiologist and critical care leader, formerly with Max Super speciality hospitals, Gurgaon and Dwarka, Dr Mohit Mathur: Recognised with the Sushruta Award (2021), he has advanced ICU medicine and trained multidisciplinary teams.

    Commenting on the development, Policybazaar for Business, head, Sajja Praveen Chowdary said, “Professional Indemnity for Doctors and Employee Health & Wellness are critical verticals for us. The addition of these dignitaries gives unprecedented strength to our efforts  helping us safeguard doctors in a complex medico-legal environment while also designing new-age covers for risks emerging from AI-driven diagnostics and modern treatment protocols.”

    With this expansion, Policybazaar for Business builds on its decorated advisory board, which already includes Ajit Kumar, AV Rao, and S Nagaraj. The strengthened panel reflects the brand’s commitment to addressing the evolving insurance needs of corporates, hospitals, and healthcare professionals.

  • Oberoi Realty honours engineers with inspiring video this Engineers’ Day

    Oberoi Realty honours engineers with inspiring video this Engineers’ Day

    MUMBAI: On Engineers’ Day, the luxury real estate developer unveiled a special tribute video saluting the minds that turn blueprints into landmarks. The film celebrates engineering not just as a science of structures, but as the art of shaping communities, where precision meets imagination.

    From the first sketch on paper to towers that redefine cityscapes, the video reflects the patience, creativity, and discipline that lie at the heart of progress. It is a reminder that while steel and concrete may build walls, it is engineering vision that creates spaces where people truly live, connect, and thrive.

    Oberoi Realty, senior vice president & head of marketing and corporate communications, Sarina Menezes summed it up and said, “Engineering is about people: their aspirations, their comfort, and the way they experience life. Engineers blend precision with purpose and innovation with integrity. Their expertise allows us to create developments that stand for connection as much as progress.”

    Every frame of the tribute highlights how engineers bridge ambition with detail, transforming possibility into reality and leaving behind legacies that endure for generations.

  • HTCS checks out with 40 million dollars savings in Warehouse digital revamp

    HTCS checks out with 40 million dollars savings in Warehouse digital revamp

    MUMBAI: When retail meets reboot, the savings add up. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has inked a strategic partnership with New Zealand’s The Warehouse Group (TWG) to modernise its technology backbone unlocking up to 40 million dollars in licence and managed service cost savings over five years.

    The tie-up will see TCS consolidate platforms, trim technical debt and sharpen efficiencies across TWG’s end-to-end retail chain, from merchandising to supply chain. But it’s not just about cost-cutting: the IT giant will also help upskill TWG’s workforce in digital and AI capabilities, setting the stage for smarter, faster, and more resilient operations.

    TWG Group CEO Mark Stirton called the deal “a significant step forward” after a year of belt-tightening. “TCS will build on our current cost initiatives and unlock the capability and capacity to obtain more value from the technology investments we’ve made to date,” he said.

    For TCS, which already partners with the world’s top 10 retailers, the pact underscores its growing footprint in New Zealand. The company has been active in shaping the region’s digital future, from launching the Asia Pacific Digital Sustainability Index in 2022 to running STEM empowerment programmes like GoIT and GoIT Girls to inspire the next generation of innovators.

    Armed with AI-powered platforms like TCS Omnistore for unified commerce and TCS Optumera for data-led merchandising, the consultancy brings both scale and smarts to the table. Tata Consultancy Services president for growth markets Girish Ramachandran summed it up: “We are committed to supporting one of New Zealand’s most iconic retail brands in streamlining systems and enhancing capabilities through AI adoption laying the foundation for sustained, long-term value creation.”

    With efficiency, innovation and sustainability stitched into its plan, TWG’s latest retail chapter promises to be more than just business as usual, it’s retail therapy for the digital age.

     

  • Healthok pops up with Haldiram’s for a pure veg twist this Navratri

    Healthok pops up with Haldiram’s for a pure veg twist this Navratri

    MUMBAI: When Navratri calls for nine days of purity, Healthok and Haldiram’s are serving a dose of devotion with a side of wellness. Mankind’s Healthok, India’s pure vegetarian multivitamin brand, has teamed up with Haldiram’s Nagpur to champion health for vegetarians during the festive season.

    The campaign rolling out across 76 Haldiram’s outlets in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Chhattisgarh reminds devotees that just as they trust Haldiram’s for pure veg delicacies, they can count on Healthok for vegetarian nutrition. Adding to the flavour, a co-branded digital video is running on YouTube and Instagram, while Healthok tablets and gummies are now stocked at participating Haldiram’s stores.

    “Navratri is when millions turn to pure vegetarian living. We want them to approach Healthok with the same trust they have in Haldiram’s,” said Mankind Consumer Products vice president for sales and marketing head Joy Chatterjee. He added that the tie-up amplifies the brand’s “24 Hour Active Energy” promise and cements its vegetarian-first positioning.

    Haldiram director Neeraj Agrawal echoed the sentiment: “Our dedication to high-quality vegetarian food aligns perfectly with Healthok’s mission. Together, we make it easier for vegetarians to lead a healthier life.”

    From temple visits to thali feasts, Navratri is a season where tradition meets lifestyle choices. With this collaboration, two household names are making sure that while plates stay pure, energy levels stay powered because devotion deserves a healthy boost.
     

  • Studds puts safety in style with new Vogue D1 square helmet series

    Studds puts safety in style with new Vogue D1 square helmet series

    MUMBAI: Studds Accessories Ltd., one of the world’s largest two-wheeler helmet maker by volume in 2024, has launched the Vogue D1 square, its first graphic series under the popular ‘Vogue’ line.

    Known for blending safety, comfort, and value, the ‘Vogue’ range has long been a commuter favourite. The new D1 square edition adds a splash of personality, rolling out six striking colour combinations, from black-and-pastel blue to black-and-pink, while keeping the ISI-certified protection intact.

    Studds, managing director, Sidhartha Bhushan Khurana said the refresh was inspired by riders’ growing appetite for expressive, contemporary designs. “We’re evolving the Vogue series to offer something that’s not only safe and reliable but also visually appealing. This lightweight, open-face helmet lets riders show their individuality without compromising comfort or safety,” he noted.

    The D1 square features regulated-density EPS for protection, a quick-release chin strap for convenience, and a hypoallergenic liner with top air exhausts to keep riders cool, especially handy in India’s sweltering climate. Available in four sizes (xs to l), the helmet is designed for men and women alike, making it a versatile choice for both daily commutes and weekend spins.

    With prices starting at Rs 1,095, the Vogue D1 Square is on sale at Studds exclusive outlets, offline retailers, and the official online store, with availability on major marketplaces coming soon.