COVID-19 Triggered Economic Distress Sees Sharp Spike in Smuggling of Goods

FICCI Cascade

* In order to create large-scale awareness of this menace, FICCI CASCADE has been conducting several interactions with government and enforcement agencies across several states in India on the ways and means to mitigate this challenge.

* Applauding enforcement agencies for recent seizures, FICCI CASCADE urges Government to keep up the vigilance as current tough economic environment leads to economic crimes

* Gold, Cigarette and Liquor, having high tax arbitrage top the list of smuggled goods

* Smugglers using innovative measures like ferrying illegal cigarettes in COVID-19 Special Trains

FICCI’s Committee Against Smuggling and Counterfeiting Activities Destroying the Economy, (CASCADE) has appealed to the policy makers that illicit trade should be treated as a national threat. Illicit trade has emerged as one of the most formidable challenges before our nation, especially during the current pandemic which has led to an economic distress. This comes in the wake of several cases of smuggling of goods such as gold, cigarettes, liquor which have been reported amid the COVID -19 pandemic.

Mr. Anil Rajput, Chairman, FICCI CASCADE while congratulating the officers of the enforcement agencies for successful seizures, said, “The perpetrators of illicit trade are always looking at innovative ways to deceive the system to carry out their activities. This deeply harms the economic interests of the nation and the society ends up paying a huge cost. While the recent efforts of enforcement officers are laudable, we cannot afford to let the guard go down. At a time when the country is already dealing with the coronavirus triggered financial stress, it is even more important that the government maintains strict vigil to ensure that these offenders are kept at bay.”

In less than a week, the customs officials had two major seizures of smuggled cigarettes at New Delhi Railway station where the smugglers were using COVID- 19 special trains for ferrying these products. These seizures come on the back of two other major busts of foreign cigarette smuggling rackets, first in Mumbai and second one in Hyderabad. The combined value of the seizures is over Rs. 15 crores. Earlier this month, large seizure of smuggled gold worth Rs 1.5 crore and 15 crore was also made by the Kerala Airport Authority and customs at Thiruvananthapuram Airport respectively.

Not only does smuggling dent the government exchequer, by creating opportunities from tax arbitrage, but also threatens local industries on which livelihoods of many depend. In a recent study by FICCI CASCADE, it was estimated that due to smuggling over 16 lakh jobs were lost in India in 5 industry sectors alone in 2017-18. Besides unemployment and massive financial losses, it also creates large scale destabilization by fomenting crime and funding insurgency and terrorism.

Airtel Thanks App Now Available in Kannada for Airtel Prepaid Customers

As part of its mission to simplify the customer journey through innovative digital interventions, Bharti Airtel (“Airtel”) has announced the launch of Kannada language support on Airtel Thanks app for prepaid customers. The feature is LIVE on Android and will be available on iOS shortly. With increasing smartphone penetration, particularly in smaller towns and villages, customers are looking for vernacular online experience. This new feature on Airtel Thanks app will drive more adoption as well as make the user experience simpler and highly interactive for Airtel customers by removing language barriers. 

Airtel Thanks app allows Airtel smartphone customers to access Digital Self Care - make recharges, bill payments, checking real time data usage/balance details. Customers can also log service related issues through the app in a matter of few clicks. The app also offers access to digital payments and financial services along with preview of Airtel’s digital entertainment library.

Says Adarsh Nair, Chief Product Officer, Airtel: “At Airtel, we are obsessed with solving customer problems and making their experience better through digital technologies. As India transforms into a smartphone nation, close to 35% of Airtel Thanks app users now come from Tier 2/3 towns and rural markets. With deep vernacular support, Airtel Thanks app becomes even more relevant and accessible for these customers and enables them to unlock the full potential of Airtel’s exciting digital services.”

Airtel Thanks app has been fully designed and built by the in-house engineering team of Airtel.

Hyundai Unveils New TUCSON and Brings Alive ‘ALL New CRETA’, ‘Spirited New VERNA’ in the Digital Sphere

Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), country’s first smart mobility solutions provider and the largest exporter since inception, today showcased 3 Legendary and bestselling brands All New CRETA- The Ultimate SUV, Spirited New VERNA and the new TUCSON in the ‘The Next Dimension’ through the ‘VIRTUAL WORLD OF HYUNDAI’. In the Industry First ever full-scale human centric design showcase, Hyundai’s exclusive session bridged distances between the Dynamic Physical and Digital Worlds, while keeping the experience alive.

Speaking at the Industry First, most advanced virtual-reality experience, Mr. SS Kim, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India Limited said, “We are glad to introduce you to the Virtual World of Hyundai in an exceptional digital experience - ‘The Next Dimension’. With its technological prowess, Hyundai has created a New Paradigm bringing new experience alive. ‘The Next Dimension’ is an immersive expression of different cultures through Human Centric Design. Being an Innovation Centric organization, Hyundai has brought together the Virtual World of 3 Iconic brands - ALL New CRETA, Spirited New VERNA and the launch of the new TUCSON, in a Larger Than Life POD Lab Space creating a new benchmark in the Indian Automotive industry.”

“With over 6.5 million customers worldwide, TUCSON is one of the best-selling SUV’s across the world. The new TUCSON unveiled recently at the Auto Expo 2020 is a testimony of our commitment to bring the best of global products and technology for our customers in India and we are confident that this SUV will set a new benchmark in Industry.” He added.

Segment 1: Success of All New CRETA - The Ultimate SUV

‘The Next Dimension’ was divided into three segments. It began with a showcase of the Record Breaking Success of the All New CRETA - ‘The Ultimate SUV’ with over 45,000 bookings.

CRETA has been a bestseller in its segment since inception and has consistently been the most preferred SUV in India with over 4.85 Lakh happy CRETA customers.  Despite challenging times and intense competition, the newly launched All New CRETA - The “Ultimate SUV” has showcased Brand Supremacy becoming Number 1 selling SUV in its segment for last 2 consecutive months. This Power packed Ultimate SUV is an Ultimate all-rounder, from styling to comfort, Connectivity to performance, and in safety providing Ultimate customer care.

Segment 2:  The Spirited New VERNA - Live The Thrill

The Second phase of ‘The Next Dimension’ laid the spotlight on Hyundai’s leading product in the Sedan segment The Spirited New VERNA. Hyundai VERNA continues to be a bestselling product with 26 industry accolades and over 5.28 Lac happy customers in domestic and export markets.

VERNA is Hyundai’s Super Performer Brand and with its strong fan following, is amongst the most loved Sedans in India. The recently launched India’s First Fully Connected sedan – The Spirited New VERNA, is an All-rounder sedan with Human Technology Connect. It is comprised of Futuristic Design, Smart Connect, Ingenious Detailing and Superior Dynamics for new age aspirational customers. Styling, Brand Reputation, Dynamic Performance & advanced technology, Segment Best Features and Driving comfort offers a superior product experience to the customers.

The Spirited New VERNA - Key highlights:

Best in Segment  - BOLD AND PREMIUM STYLING

Dark Chrome Grille, Chrome Garnish on Front and Rear Bumper

Best in Segment – SPORTY TURBO VARIANT

Turbo Engine/7DCT, Twin Tip Mufler

First in Segment – CONNECTED CAR TECHNOLOGY

Hyundai Blue Link

Best in Segment – ADVANCED POWERTRAIN

Petrol and Diesel Option with MT & AT

First in Segment – HIGH-TECH ADVANCED FEATURES

Ventilated Seats, Wireless Charger, Digital Cluster

Best in Segment – WONDER WARRANTY

Standard Warranty up to 5 Years

Segment 3: The Launch of : The new TUCSON - ANNOUNCE YOUR ARRIVAL

In the last segment Hyundai launched its Flagship Premium SUV, the new TUCSON.  The new TUCSON redefines the Premium SUV experience with its Dynamic & Robust appeal, Luxurious interiors, Advanced Technology & Connectivity. With a legacy of 3 highly Trusted & successful Generations and over 6.5 million customers worldwide, TUCSON is one of the best-selling SUV’s across the world. Tucson’s strong success is apparent from the overwhelming response it has received from experts and from customers, winning many prestigious awards in India since its launch in 2016.

The new TUCSON is engineered to deliver a modern premium SUV experience. It is based on 5 key pillars: Premium & Bold Styling, Dominant Performance, Smart Technology & Comfort, Enhanced Connectivity, and Advanced Safety.

PREMIUM & BOLD STYLING

The Dynamic Styling of the All new Tucson sets it apart from other SUVs. The new TUCSON is an outstanding example of Hyundai’s Design excellence. The Signature Cascade Design chrome front Grille makes a Bold & confident statement. While the Penta Projector LED Headlamps along with LED DRL’s & LED Tail Lamps, enhances the Premiumness of the New Tucson. Furthermore, the R18 Diamond cut Alloy wheels & Twin chrome exhaust accentuates the Bold & Sporty appeal. The luxurious All Black Interiors and Leather stitched dashboard gives a rich premium feel to the cabin.

DOMINANT PERFORMANCE

The new TUCSON comes with powerful 2.0 Litre Diesel and Petrol engines. The fun to drive Diesel powertrain with New advanced 8 Speed AT offers the Best-in-segment Power (185ps) and Torque (40.8 kgm)., Also the Petrol Engine delivers an impressive 152 ps Power and 19.6 kgm Torque and is mated to a 6 Speed AT. To further maximise the driving pleasure, new TUCSON is also offered with the HTRAC 4WD system, Advanced Traction Cornering Control and Drive Modes.

SMART TECHNOLOGY & COMFORT

The New Tucson offers ultimate comfort & Convenience with many First-in-segment features such as Power Adjustable Front Seats (Passenger – 8 Way, Driver -10 way), Infinity Premium Sound System (8 Speakers), Hands Free Power Tailgate & Wireless Charger to name a few. Additionally, the wide open Panaromic Sunroof, The Dual-Zone FATC with Rear AC vents and Electronic Parking Brake add to the absolute comfort of driving the new Tucson.

ENHANCED CONNECTIVITY

The new TUCSON is the 1st vehicle in its segment to be offered with Advanced Connected Car Technology “Hyundai BlueLink”. It allows to remotely Lock /unlock & even start the Engine/AC using smartphone/ smart watch. Also the vehicle can be Tracked down & immobilized with just a touch of button. A new Floating Type 20.32 cm HD Touch Screen Infotainment with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Voice Recognition is also offered to further enhance the connectivity on the move.

ADVANCED SAFETY

All Hyundai cars are developed and tested as per Hyundai ‘Safe Drive Philosophy’. Beyond active safety technologies, the new TUCSON has Strong Body Structure with generous usage of Advanced High Strength Steel for a lighter yet highly rigid body shell. Furthermore, in addition to 6 airbags, the New Tucson is equipped with some of the Smart electronic safety features for enhanced braking performance & Directional stability, like the Intelligent  Traction Control with ESC &VSM , Hill-assist for Ascent & decent, newly introduced TPMS & Electronic parking brakes to name a few.

COMPLETE PEACE OF MIND

The new TUCSON comes with Hyundai Premium Assurance Program (HPAP) With Wonder Warranty (Up to 5 Year) for Complete Peace Of Mind of its customers. The Hyundai Premium Assurance Program (HPAP) offers 3 years / 30,000 km free maintenance, Blue Link/Map Subscription, Road Side Assistance and Premium Care Visit. Whereas Wonder Warranty further enhances hassle-free ownership experience with option of 3 Years/Unlimited kms or 4 Years /60,000 kms or 5 Years /50,000 kms warranty.( as per driving need of customer)

First-in-Segment Features:

Hyundai Blue Link (with Remote Vehicle Operations & Voice Recognition)

Infinity Premium Sound System (8 Speakers)

Height Adjustable Hands-Free Power Tailgate

8-way Power Adjustable Passenger Seat

Wireless Phone Charger

Twin Chrome Exhaust

 Welcome Function

Door Pocket Lighting

Chrome Outside Door handles

Best-in-Segment Features:

Diesel Engine (Power -185ps/ Torque-40.8kgm)

Wonder Warranty (Up to 5 Years Standard)

Annexure 1

All New CRETA- The Ultimate SUV

All New CRETA is the embodiment of Hyundai’s Global Design language – ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ that has captivated the minds and hearts of customers in India. All New CRETA is the result of Hyundai’s Ultimate Science of Human Engineering to create the Ultimate SUV for Indian customers. It is built on Strong Body Structure with 74% of AHSS and HSS.

All New CRETA offers a thrilling drive, powered by Hyundai’s new 1.4 l Kappa Turbo GDi (BS6) Petrol engine with 7DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) gaining immense popularity among buyers.

Hyundai has committed to bring in latest in world class technology and now has range of BS 6 compliant diesel engines. CRETA Diesel powered variants constitute 59% of bookings, indicating strong demand for Hyundai’s proven and advanced Diesel BS6 technology.

CRETA customers are opting for most admired features such as Advanced Blue Link with over 50 connected features & ‘Hello Blue Link’ – wake-up word for voice activated in-car control, Drive Mode Select, Traction Control Modes, Voice Enabled Smart Panoramic Sunroof, Bose Premium Sound System (8 Speakers), Auto Healthy Air Purifier with Digital Display and Paddle Shifters.

All New CRETA also offers customers complete peace of mind with WONDER Warranty Options - 3 Years/unlimited kms or 4 years/60 000 kms or 5 years/50 000 kms.

Annexure 2

The Spirited New VERNA – Live The Thrill

The Spirited New VERNA is based on following key pillars:

SPECTACULAR DESIGN

The Spirited New VERNA with Sensuously Sporty and Spectacular design has stunning Premium and Bold Exteriors.

Artistically crafted front projects an aggressive, bold yet premium look. The newly designed Full LED Headlamps adds to the design innovation, while the Dark Chrome in the Front Grille enhances the premium appeal. The Aerodynamic side profile together with New 16”Diamond Cut Alloys boost the sporty appeal while the Chrome window beltline, Striking LED Tail Lamps & newly designed bumper with Chrome garnish lend  an  exceptional appeal to the Spirited New VERNA.

Complementing the dynamic Exteriors, are the Premium & Stylish Interiors. The comfortable & spacious cabin of VERNA offers generous Legroom & Headroom for the occupants. The Glossy Black & Silver accents on the dashboard, Floating design infotainment system and dual tone Leatherette seats, enhances the upmarket feel of the cabin.

OUTSTANDING FEATURES

In line with segment buyers need & aspiration, The Spirited New VERNA now comes with 14 NEW FEATURES and 20 Segment unique offerings, strengthening VERNA’s image of a hi-tech feature-rich performance sedan.

The feature packed Spirited New VERNA offers unique intuitive in cabin experience. The ergonomically positioned 8” Floating Screen AVNT system with HD display and Smartphone connectivity offers ultimate in car experience while the Digital Cluster with unique Rev and Speed counters gives a Hi Tech cockpit feel.

The segment unique Ventilated front Seats and Wireless Phone Charging, add to the comfort and convenience, while the Electric Sunroof enhances the cabin experience. Moreover, features like Paddle Shifters, Front Parking Sensors and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, further accentuates the Hi-tech imagery of the Spirited New VERNA

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

As a step towards Future Mobility, Hyundai introduced its Advanced Telematics Solution, Hyundai BLUE LINK in the Venue last year. Now with the adoption of BLUE LINK Technology, The Spirited New VERNA has become the FIRST FULLY CONNECTED SEDAN IN THE SEGMENT.

Hyundai BLUE LINK technology enables customers to gain access to a number of advanced connected car features like Remote Engine Start, Remote Lock /Unlock and AC on,  Stolen Vehicle Tracking & Immobilisation, and Geo-fencing to name a Few . The Technological excellence is further accentuated with Interactive Voice controlled Wake up command of “Hello BLUE LINK” that activates features like Dial by No., Live Cricket Scores, weather information and Indian Holidays Info for enhanced customer experience. Moreover, the Smartwatch Integration for controlling Blue Link features take the connected car experience to Next level.

YOUTHFUL PERFORMANCE

Powerful Performance has always been a benchmark for VERNA, making it popular as a “Performance Sedan”. The new VERNA features all new Petrol and Diesel engine options with compliance to the BS6 norms. The 1.5 L Gamma 2 PL engine offers a balance performance and efficiency, and comes with the option of 6-Speed Manual Transmission and newly developed Intelligent Variable Transmission. The new 1.5L U2 CRDI Diesel Engine comes with the option of 6-Speed Manual Transmission and a 6-Speed Automatic Transmission, the only DSL AT option available in the segment.

VERNA has always been the leader in the diesel segment. The Diesel advantage is carry forward in the new VERNA as well with the Segment best 1.5 U2 Engine, which delivers 115 PS power and 25.5 kgm torque along with a mileage of 25 kmpl, making it a striking combination of Performance, Refinement & Economy.

Customers’ safety is always first priority at Hyundai and The Spirited New VERNA is no exception. The highly secure body structure of VERNA comes with extended application of as high as 73% “Advanced & high strength steel” making it high on rigidity. 

Renault India Organises Welcome Back Service Camp from July 13-26 at all Dealer Workshops

Renault India has announced the commencement of a nationwide after-sales service initiative, ‘Renault Welcome Back Camp’ from July 13 - July 26, 2020 at all its dealer workshops across India. This initiative further strengthens Renault’s commitment towards offering a delightful service experience to its customers.

Renault India dealerships have introduced stringent safety and hygiene measures as it welcomes back customers across all its touchpoints.

As part of the ‘Renault Welcome Back Camp’, Renault India customers can avail up to 50% discount on select Accessories, 10% attractive discount on select spare parts, 15% on labour charges, 5% on engine oil change and additional 5% discount on select parts & accessories for MYR registered customers. Renault India will also provide 10% discount on ‘Renault Secure’, which covers Extended Warranty and Roadside Assistance. The company has also introduced benefits of up to 50% on several value-added services.

In addition to the comprehensive car check-up facilities, several fun-filled activities will be organized for customers with assured gifts, making it an exciting and cherishing experience for the customers. All Renault dealerships are ensuring utmost safety and social distancing measures for these activities under standard safety protocols in view of the health scenario.

The Welcome Back Camp underlines Renault’s commitment to offer a superlative brand ownership experience to our customers. Renault Service Camps have always received an overwhelming response from customers across India and the company will continue to build on such customer connect activities as it expands its footprint in India. In the last few years, Renault India has taken major actions across its business strategy, operations, product range, customer satisfaction & engagement, with the objective of strengthening the base, to further build the brand in India.

Renault India has a widespread presence with more than 370 sales and 450 service touchpoints across the country with benchmark sales and service quality.

ABOUT RENAULT

Renault India Pvt. Ltd. is a fully owned subsidiary of Renault S.A.S. France. Renault India cars are manufactured in the manufacturing facility located in Oragadam, Chennai, with a capacity of 480,000 units per annum. Renault India also has a widespread presence of more than 370 sales and 450 service touchpoints, which include 257 service workshops and 215 Workshop On Wheels locations across the country, with benchmark sales and service quality.

Renault India’s product line up and services have seen strong recognition among customers and industry experts alike, winning more than 60 titles, making Renault India one of the most awarded automotive brands in a single year in India. The Renault KWID has already bagged 32 awards, including 10 ‘Car of the Year’ Awards.

Snapchat Rolls Out ‘Here For You’ Features in the Indian Market

Snap Inc. (NYSE: SNAP) today, launched Here for You in India, a feature that provides in-app support to Snapchatters who may be experiencing a mental health or emotional crisis or those who want to learn more about these issues in order to help friends. Mariwala Health Initiative and the Manas Foundation are the first partners in India, who have created resources around anxiety, depression, loneliness, suicide and general mental health.

The creation of Here for You was informed by research conducted late last year into how Snapchatters and their friends experience mental health. Snapchat found an overwhelming majority of Snapchatters experience feelings of stress and anxiety and that their friends are the first people they turn to when they need help, more than professionals - or even their parents. They also see their friends as the most positive force in their lives - consistent with other studies that have shown that spending time with friends can be one of the most effective ways to combat feelings of loneliness and depression. The research also revealed that many young people are deeply interested in understanding these issues, and how they can support friends who are struggling with them. 

“At Snap, we have always been inspired by the power real friendships have in supporting health and happiness. Now more than ever, in a socially distanced world, we see friendship and connection is vital to our wellbeing. Here For You was designed to empower our community with resources to help themselves, as well as educate on how to spot signs in loved ones. It’s great to partner with Mariwala Health Initiative and the Manas Foundation to do this - organisations with a great wealth of experience and expertise in India,” said Jennifer Park Stout, VP of Global Public Policy, Snap.

“These are unprecedented times. COVID-19 has changed how we live our lives, how we work or study, how we connect with each other and more. We are collectively experiencing feelings of worry, stress, tension, anxiety, numbness, sadness - which are all routine responses to periods of crises. It is therefore crucial to have mental health resources available and accessible for those experiencing distress. Platforms like Snapchat provide a powerful medium to disseminate these resources. Our videos discuss how to deal with stress and anxiety, how to support a loved one experiencing distress and ways to enhance mental well-being through mindfulness/grounding exercises,” said Raj Mariwala, Director, Mariwala Health Initiative.

“For over two decades we have been striving to demystify mental health in India. Students, facing school and college closures, are missing out on robust dialogues, outdoors, experiential learning and interpersonal interactions that add to their well-being. For many, the loss of routine is also leading to erratic eating and sleeping schedules; which is directly linked to one’s mental health. This launch is a unique opportunity for users to relate with mental health as part of their everyday life. We want to tell them that it is ok to talk about mental health and Snapchat and Manas are here for you,” said Naveen Kumar

Trustee & Psychologist, Manas Foundation.

Here For You will be available to Snapchatters in India from today. They can access resources by searching for words such as ‘anxiety’, ‘depression’, ‘loneliness’, ‘suicide’, ‘mental health’ and ‘wellbeing’. The content covers topics such as ways to cope with mental health issues and how to spot signs in loved ones, as well as questions from the community, answered by clinical psychologists and mental health professionals. Each ends with further information on the Manas Foundation and Mariwala Health Initiative, and advice on how to contact a trained counsellor directly for help.

The Here For You feature  is part of a concerted effort designed to educate and empower the Snapchat community to look after themselves, and support friends who might be struggling with their own social and emotional wellbeing. Other features announced recently at Snap’s Partner Summit in June include a partnership with Headspace, new Snap Originals and expanded in-app tools.

TransUnion CIBIL Partners with Digital India’s Common Services Centres to Drive Financial inclusion

In order to reassert its commitment towards driving credit education and financial inclusion across the country, TransUnion CIBIL has partnered with Common Service Centres (CSCs) to assist consumers in getting easy access to their CIBIL Score and Credit Report. The CSCs are a special purpose vehicle of the Ministry of Electronics and IT, and are an initiative under the Government of India’s Digital India Flagship platform designed to drive a socially, financially and digitally inclusive society.

Whether it’s their health, financial well-being or changes in day-to-day living, many people in India have already been dramatically affected by COVID-19. It’s important that businesses and consumers are able to continue to transact with confidence while accessing credit for fulfilling their financial requirements. Consumer awareness on how to manage credit and enable easier and faster access to finance is now more important than ever.

Empowering consumers across India to transact with confidence

With this partnership, consumers will be able to access their CIBIL Score and Credit Report from over 3.61 lakh CSC outlets nationally. People can request their CIBIL Score and report by visiting the Village Level Entrepreneurs (known as VLEs) close to their location and following authentication through the established Aadhar and biometric check, they can view their CIBIL Score and Credit Report.  These centres will also provide guidance and education to consumers on the details of their CIBIL Score and Credit Report and how to maintain credit discipline in order to access credit opportunities.

Speaking on the objective of this collaboration, the Managing Director and CEO of TransUnion CIBIL, Mr. Rajesh Kumar, said: “As consumers look to secure funds to bridge any personal finance gap due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, awareness of the importance of their CIBIL Score and credit history is vital for accessing credit opportunities quickly and easily.  Through this collaboration with CSCs, we are reaching out to regional and rural consumers across our country to provide them with digital access to their credit score and report, enabling them to apply for credit and transact with confidence.”

Highlighting the benefits of this collaboration, Mr. Kumar added: “As several credit institutions now offer better terms and conditions to consumers with a higher CIBIL score, education and awareness about it can also help consumers access loans at a more competitive rate of interest.  Moreover, this initiative paves the way for greater consumer empowerment by ensuring that their credit information is accurate and that they are reliably and safely represented in the marketplace.”

Speaking about the partnership, Dr. Dinesh Tyagi, CEO, CSC SPV said, “We are happy to collaborate with TransUnion CIBIL in this venture to help rural citizens get their CIBIL Scores and Reports seamlessly. Citizens in rural communities may lack awareness about the importance of CIBIL Score and towards availing credit opportunities easily and at better terms and conditions. A good credit score can be used by them to bargain for a better interest rate. CSC will help citizens know their CIBIL Score, check eligibility for loan and negotiate better interest rates.”

“CSC also functions as Banking Facilitators for Banks and this will help connect them with consumers to whom the banks can sanction loans quickly. This will help a large number of SMEs in rural India to get loans easily and quickly. This facility will be of mutual benefit for CSC and Banks focused on extending credit facilities to rural citizens,” he added.  

Consumers can approach CSCs for their CIBIL Score and Report from 13th July, 2020 onwards.

The CIBIL Score is a 3-digit numeric summary of a consumer’s CIBIL Report ranging from 300 to 900. It is a reflection of a consumer’s credit profile, and one of the things that lenders check before approving a credit application. The closer a consumer’s score is to 900, the higher are the chances of a credit card or loan application getting approved, thus making the CIBIL Score and Report key factors in the underwriting process and in determining a consumer’s access to credit. 

>> Learn more about the CIBIL Score and Report at www.cibil.com

>> Learn more about CSCs at the Digitize India platform

About TransUnion CIBIL – Consumer Interactive

Consumer Interactive is the direct-to-consumer division of TransUnion CIBIL, India’s largest credit information company with one of the country’s most comprehensive collections of consumer information. Our mission is to help Indian consumers access and understand the opportunities that lead to a higher quality of life by providing them with means to appreciate and manage their credit. This is achieved through a confluence of data and internet-based tools that provide consumers the most accessible, accurate credit information and promote financial literacy, inclusion and protection. We believe in the power of information to help individuals make better and smarter decisions so they can achieve their personal financial goals while contributing to the development of a stronger economy.

All Set to Meet Shakuntala Devi’s Best Friend, Maths? Amazon Prime Video to Drop the Trailer on July 15

Amazon Prime Video has revealed the motion poster of the much-awaited biographical drama Shakuntala Devi. With countless achievements and a never-before-seen journey of the charming mathematician, Vidya Balan in and as Shakuntala Devi is all set to make your head spin with complex calculations, with the upcoming biopic of the math wizard. 

Faster than a calculator and a human-computer, the motion poster revealed that the trailer for the much-awaited new film will drop on 15th of July. Shakuntala Devi has been directed by Anu Menon (Waiting, Four More Shots Please S1) and produced by Sony Pictures Networks Productions and Vikram Malhotra (Abundantia Entertainment). 

Shakuntala Devi will join the thousands of TV shows and movies from Hollywood and Bollywood in the Prime Video catalog. These include Indian films Gulabo Sitabo, Ponmagal Vandhal and Penguin, Indian-produced Amazon Original series like Breathe: Into the Shadows, Paatal Lok, The Forgotten Army – Azaadi Ke Liye, Four More Shots Please S1 and 2, The Family Man, Mirzapur, Inside Edge S1, and S2, and Made In Heaven. Prime members can also watch award-winning and critically acclaimed global Amazon Original series like Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan, The Boys, Hunters, Fleabag, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. All this is available at no extra cost for Amazon Prime members. The service includes titles in Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Punjabi, and Bengali.

Prime members will be able to watch Shakuntala Devi anywhere and anytime on the Prime Video app for smart TVs, mobile devices, Fire TV, Fire TV stick, Fire tablets, Apple TV, etc. In the Prime Video app, Prime members can download episodes on their mobile devices and tablets and watch anywhere offline at no additional cost.

Prime Video is available in India to Prime members for just ₹999 annually, or ₹129 monthly. New customers can find out more at www.amazon.in/prime and subscribe to a free 30-day trial.

ABOUT AMAZON PRIME VIDEO

Prime Video is a premium streaming service that offers Prime members a collection of award-winning Amazon Original series, thousands of movies, and TV shows—all with the ease of finding what they love to watch in one place.  Find out more at PrimeVideo.com. 

●        Included with Prime Video: Shakuntala Devi joins thousands of TV shows and movies from Hollywood and Bollywood, including Indian-produced Amazon Original series such as Breathe: Into the Shadows, Paatal Lok, The Family Man, Mirzapur, Inside Edge and Made In Heaven, and award-winning and critically acclaimed global Amazon Original series including Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, The Boys, Hunters, Fleabag, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, all of which are available for unlimited streaming with a Prime membership. Prime Video includes titles available in Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Punjabi and Bengali.

●        Instant Access: Members can watch Shakuntala Devi anywhere, anytime on the Prime Video app for smart TVs, mobile devices, Fire TV, Fire TV stick, Fire tablets, Apple TV, and multiple gaming devices. Prime Video is also available to consumers through Airtel and Vodafone pre-paid and post-paid subscription plans. In the Prime Video app, Prime members can download episodes on their mobile devices and tablets and watch anywhere offline at no additional cost.

●        Enhanced experiences: Make the most of every viewing with 4K Ultra HD- and High Dynamic Range (HDR)-compatible content. Go behind the scenes of your favorite movies and TV shows with exclusive X-Ray access, powered by IMDb. Save it for later with select mobile downloads for offline viewing.

●        Included with Prime: Prime Video is available in India at no extra cost with Prime membership for just ₹999 annually or ₹129 monthly, new customers can find out more at  www.amazon.in/prime and subscribe to a free 30-day trial.