Category: Top Stories

  • One Source bags mandate for Vitraya Technologies

    Integrated marketing consultancy, One Source, has bagged the corporate communication mandate for Vitraya Technologies, an insurtech company.

    Said Avdhesh Sharma, India-President at Vitraya Technologies: “Our vision at Vitraya Technologies is to redefine and transform the healthcare claim settlement process. By providing seamless, accurate, and fast settlement systems, we enhance the experience of the entire healthcare ecosystem and bring tangible value to our clients, setting new standards in the industry. We want to partner with a firm which is equally invested in our brand, and One Source was the clear winner.”

    Added Sandeep Rao, Co-founder and Co-Chief Executive Officer, One Source: ” By aligning our efforts with Vitraya Technologies’ mission to enhance efficiency, trust, and value in the healthcare system, we are confident in our ability to foster mutual growth and success.”

  • Infobip report: ‘Driving Meaningful Customer Engagement with Conversational AI’

    A new report from global cloud communications platform, Infobip revealed that brands prioritise customer interaction by increasing budget allocations to improve the overall experience. In India, 83% of businesses in IDC’s Future of Customer Experience Survey 2023 are investing heavily in customer service/support interactions to deliver superior customer satisfaction. The Infobip report “Driving Meaningful Customer Engagement with Conversational AI” features insights from leading IT market research and advisory firm IDC.

    The research highlights that customer expectations have evolved in today’s digital age. They now demand authenticity and more personalized attention from brands. However, many organisations still lack the capabilities to deliver unique experiences. As per the IDC survey, 60% of the organizations in India do not have the tools to maintain customer context across the customer journey and channels.

    The rising demand for omnichannel communication and the need for scalability and flexibility are encouraging businesses to adopt unified platforms with conversational capabilities. According to IDC research, companies are investing in conversational apps — such as live collaboration tools, intelligent digital assistants, and digital avatars — to provide more effortless and seamless customer experiences. In India, 82% of businesses surveyed plan to maintain or increase their spending on conversational applications.

    The report further highlights the increasing relevance of unified AI-powered conversational solutions in India and the Asia Pacific region. The industry’s shift towards improved customer experience (CX) is not surprising. Previously, customers had to wait for a service agent to respond to their queries. Now, APAC businesses are enabling customers to independently find answers, request services, and complete transactions using omnichannel communication solutions powered by conversational AI.

    Said Harsha Solanki, VP GM – Asia, Infobip: “It’s no surprise that businesses in India are prioritizing superior customer experiences through conversational AI. Increasingly, brands are using a network of diverse chatbots and AI algorithms to facilitate timely actions at crucial stages of the customer journey. In today’s AI-driven landscape, CPaaS is enabling businesses to seamlessly orchestrate customer engagement throughout the entire journey, enhancing efficiency and maximizing value. This approach allows businesses to achieve more with less, reducing costs and improving operational effectiveness while focusing on long-term customer relationships. At Infobip, we are prepared to support businesses on this transformative path.”

    Added Lavanya Jindal, Senior Research Analyst, Asia/Pacific Customer Experience and Value Streams, IDC Asia/Pacific: “Generative AI has reshaped conversational experiences. Having a single source of truth across interactions and channels powers context. This customer context allows for more relevant and intelligent conversations and raises the bar for personalisation.”

  • Pearson India appoints IAM Group to lead strategic marketing

    IAM group of companies has been appointed by Pearson India, an educational publishing company, to lead its strategic marketing initiatives in higher education. This collaboration brings together Pearson’s world-class educational offerings with IAM’s expertise in data-driven marketing strategies and innovative solutions.

    “We are excited to be working with Pearson India,” said Aditya Uppal, COO at IAM Group of Companies. “Their commitment to high-quality education aligns perfectly with our values. We look forward to developing impactful marketing campaigns that resonate with educators and learners alike.”

    Vinay Kumar Swamy
    Vinay Kumar Swamy

    Added Vinay Kumar Swamy, Country Head of Pearson India: “We are thrilled to partner with IAM Group to drive our marketing initiatives for our higher education business in India. The higher education sector is experiencing significant growth, driven by digitalisation and internationalisation, and is increasingly focused on providing quality education for learners and educators. Collaborating with IAM Group allows us to effectively reach academia and learners with our offerings and support initiative.”

  • Dhoni launches brand Inera

    Inera, agri-inputs brand, has unveils its latest campaign titled ‘Meri Mitti, Mera Yakeen’, featuring cricketer MS Dhoni.

    Said Ravi Banka, Founder and CEO of Eggfirtst, the agency behind the campaign:: “Having created numerous impactful rural brand campaigns, this one stands out as it directly enhances the lives of farmers. Dhoni’s alignment with the brand, given his persona and popularity, brings unparalleled value.”

  • Nitin Kamat is President, MRSI

    Market Research Society of India (MRSI), the apex body for market research in India, has announced the formation of the Managing Committee for the tenure of 2024-2027. Nitin Kamat, Chief Growth & Partnerships Officer, TAM Media Research Pvt. Ltd was elected President and takes over from Paru Minocha, Managing Director, South Asia, Insights Division, Kantar. Kamat worked as the treasurer for MRSI’s Managing Committee 2022-2024. He was also part of the MRSI’s ISEC Committee.

    Additionally, Puneet Avasthi and Shuvadip Banerjee were elected as Vice-Presidents, Anila Vinayak as the Secretary, and Parijat Chakraborty as the Treasurer for MRSI. The new Managing Committee was announced at MRSI’s 36th Annual General Meeting held on Thursday in Mumbai.

    Congratulating the newly elected President, Paru Minocha, Managing Director, South Asia, Insights Division, Kantar, and outgoing President of the Market Research Society of India said: “I am grateful for the unwavering trust MRSI members placed in the current Managing Committee. Key initiatives like the launch of the Socio-economic Classification System, ‘ISEC’, and the Market Sizing report of FY 2022-23, have given a new direction and scale to the vision of the association going forward. As I pass on the baton, I wish the incoming Managing Committee under the leadership of Nitin Kamat all the best.”

    On being announced as the newly elected President of MRSI, Nitin Kamat, Chief Growth & Partnerships Officer, TAM Media Research Pvt. Ltd., said: “I am honoured to take forward the role of MRSI President. The market research industry has seen a seismic shift, making it crucial to stay ahead of the curve. My focus will be to engage new minds, to not only maintain existing standards but also implement a new set of ideas and initiatives. In addition to building MRSI’s three Pillars – Profile, Pride, and Network, I firmly believe, ‘Building Trust’ is another crucial pillar that we will work upon. I look forward to strengthening global connects, deepening government connects and driving more initiatives for active participation from regional players. I am confident of achieving these goals along with the new elected managing committee members.”

  • Nazara to publish FAU-G Domination mobile game

    Nazara Publishing, the publishing arm of gaming company Nazara Technologies, along with nCore Games has entered a publishing partnership for FAU-G Domination. This is the latest game from the FAU-G franchise, the previous version of which garnered up to 50 million downloads.

    Said Nitish Mittersain, Joint MD and CEO of Nazara Technologies: “Made in India games have a huge potential to address the growing needs of the Indian gamer with locally relevant content and we are excited to partner with nCore to bring FAU-G: Domination to all our players.”

    Added Vishal Gondal, Co-Founder of nCore Games: “In recent times, the Indian government has called upon its citizens to support homegrown apps through the ‘Make in India’ initiative. FAU-G: Domination is our humble response to PM Modi’s ‘Make-in-India’ call, and we’re thankful that Nazara shares our vision to bring the best of India to the world. This signals India’s arrival as a major player in the global gaming industry.”

    Said Deepak Ail, Co-Founder & CEO of Dot9 Games: “We’re grateful that India’s biggest gaming company is supporting us to bring FAU-G: Domination to the world. Gaming is for everyone, and FAU-G: Domination is our effort in making that a reality.”

  • Torex Cough Syrup collaborates with Punjabi hit

    Torque Pharma has collaborated with the Punjabi film ‘Jatt and Juliet 3’.

    Commenting on the ad film launch, Abhay Iqbal Singh Bedi, Director, Torque Pharma said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with ‘Jatt and Juliet 3,’ a film that has a wide set of fanbase, much like Torex Cough Syrup that embodies health and wellness. This partnership enhances our brand presence while reaffirming our commitment to delivering effective cough relief, allowing our customers to savour life’s moments free from the discomfort of a cough. We are confident that this co-branding initiative with ‘Jatt & Juliet 3’ will forge a deep and lasting connection with audiences.”

    Added Manmord Singh Sidhu, the MD of White Hill Studios and the producer of the film: “We’re excited to partner with Torex Pharmaceuticals for ‘Jatt & Juliet 3.’ This collaboration brings together two trusted brands to deliver an unforgettable experience to our audience. We look forward to a successful journey together and can’t wait for everyone to experience the magic of ‘Jatt & Juliet 3’ in theatres.”

  • Dharma Cornerstone marks third anniv

    Dharma Cornerstone Agency (DCA) has completed three years. DCA was founded in 2021 as a joint venture between renowned filmmaker Karan Johar, Apoorva Mehta, CEO of Dharma Productions, and Bunty Sajdeh Managing Director of Cornerstone Sport.

    The agency represents a diverse roster of actors, directors, writers, musicians, and content creators, with a focus on discovering and nurturing talent across various regions in India. It’s roster includes actors Janhvi Kapoor, Tiger Shroff, Triptii Dimri, Aditya Roy Kapur, Sara Ali Khan, Ananya Panday, Tamannaah Bhatia, and Disha Patani; Oscar-winning producer Guneet Monga; musicians Neeti Mohan, Jubin Nautiyal, and Amaal Mallik; and digital creators like Orry, Sumukhi Suresh and Sufi Motiwala, among others. Journalist Rajeev Masand, COO of DCA, helms the film side of talent representation.

    “As we celebrate our third anniversary, we remain committed to protecting artists and storytellers in an increasingly challenging media landscape,” said Uday Singh Gauri, CEO of Dharma Cornerstone Agency. Uday with over 16 years of experience in representation and management has been instrumental in steering the agency into its fourth year, and through the rapidly evolving landscape of the film and entertainment business. Uday also co-founded Exceed Entertainment and HRX.

    “Our landscape is evolving rapidly, and the biggest challenge we foresee is the lack of adaptability,” said Apoorva Mehta. “DCA is well-positioned to navigate these challenges by employing the right people to do the right work at the right time, place, and price.”

    “We are excited about the future of DCA and the opportunities that lie ahead. Our focussed approach to talent management, our combined strengths with innovative thinking and global expansion plans will hopefully enable us to create even more value for our clients and partners in the years to come,” added Bunty Sajdeh.

  • Narayana Health Kolkata launches campaign

    Narayana Health – Kolkata is celebrating over two decades of healthcare service in West Bengal and on this occasion, the hospital has launched a comprehensive 360-degree campaign titled ‘Taking Care of Bengal for Over 2 Decades’.

    Said Dr Ashish Bajaj, Chief Marketing Officer at Narayana Health: “The ‘Taking Care of Bengal for over 2 Decades’ campaign encapsulates the essence of Narayana Health’s enduring presence in the region. Through a 360-degree approach, the campaign seeks to highlight the institution’s role as more than just a healthcare provider but as a companion in the journey of life. Whether it’s nurturing the health of every book lover, supporting the aspiration of every sports lover, or managing the sweet tooth of every mishti lover with the right medical advice, Narayana Health – Kolkata has been a constant presence, offering care and support at every step.”

  • FanCode secures digital rights for Lanka Premier League

    FanCode has secured exclusive digital streaming rights for the Lanka Premier League (LPL) for the next three years, starting with this edition which takes place from July 1 until July 21. It can be viewed on various streaming platforms and aggregators.

    Speaking about the development, Prasana Krishnan, Co-founder of FanCode, said: “We are excited to expand our cricket portfolio with the addition of the Lanka Premier League. The LPL has captivated India’s passionate cricket audience with thrilling action and memorable moments. It also provides fans an opportunity to see Sri Lanka’s top domestic talent and future stars in action.”

    Added Anil Mohan Sankhdhar, Founder and CEO of IPG Group—the official rights holder of LPL: “We are delighted to announce the continuation of our digital partnership with FanCode. The LPL has garnered immense popularity in the Indian market, and having a steadfast partner like FanCode will enable us to expand the league’s reach to even more audiences across India. Fans can anticipate an exhilarating three weeks of top-notch T20 action, showcasing the talents of premier players from around the globe.”

  • Twinkle Khanna campaigns for Honest Tea

    Honest Tea, a ready-to-drink beverage with organic green tea, has announced its newest #FindYourGood campaign in collaboration with author, columnist, and wellness enthusiast Twinkle Khanna.

    Commenting on the launch of the new campaign, Ruchira Bhattacharya, Senior Director, Marketing at The Coca-Cola Company, India and South-West Asia Operating Unit said: “Honest Tea is proud to launch the #FindYourGood campaign that celebrates those little moments of peace and calm in your daily rigmarole. The partnership with Twinkle Khanna resonates our purpose to support and encourage one’s personal idea of balance and wellness in this fast-paced world.”

    Sharing his views about the latest campaign, Mukund Olety, Executive  Creative Director at WPP Open X, added: “Our latest campaign, #FindYourGood, throws light upon a very important thing that many of us often tend to forget, which is making time for little moments of peace and joy in our daily lives. Teaming up with Twinkle Khanna for this campaign has been a truly joyful experience. As a proponent for wellbeing of women, she naturally conveys the nuances we wish to communicate through this campaign.”

  • Sourav Ganguly partners with Veedol

    Veedol, the manufacturer and marketer of lubricants, from Tide Water Oil Co. (India) Ltd., has signed up former cricketer Sourav Ganguly as its brand ambassador.

    Expressing enthusiasm, Arijit Basu, Managing Director, Tide Water Oil Co (India) Ltd said: “We are delighted to have a cricketing great like Sourav Ganguly join us as our brand ambassador. His leadership, grit and determination are the stuff of legend, shaping the winning attitude of Team India as we know it today. Founded on honesty and self-belief, brand Sourav continues to inspire all to raise the bar of performance and achievement, values that resonate strongly with Veedol. We are confident that this association will give us a strong impetus as we drive forward into the future.”