The All-New BMW R 1300 GS Launched In Indian Market

* Most powerful BMW Boxer engine ever.

* Entirely new design, with an impressive weight saving of 12 kg compared to the previous model.

* New Matrix LED headlamps with innovative design.

* Engine Drag Torque Control (MSR), Dynamic Brake Assist (DBC) and Hill Start Control (HSC) as standard.

* Standard Dynamic Package with Gear shift assistant Pro and Riding modes Pro.

* #BMWMotorrad #R1300GS #LetsSetThePaceTogether #SpiritOfGS

BMW Motorrad India has launched the all-new BMW R 1300 GS in India. This Adventure Motorcycle will be available as a Completely Built-up Unit (CBU) and deliveries will commence from end of June 2024.

Mr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “BMW Motorrad established the new segment of touring enduros more than four decades ago with the R 80 G/S. And the BMW GS with boxer engine has been the undisputed leader of the competitive field ever since. With the all-new BMW R 1300 GS, BMW Motorrad has focused on sharpening the GS even further. It is a perfect combination of power, comfort and agility, making it the ideal motorcycle for any terrain. With its versatility and appeal, the all-new BMW R 1300 GS will exceed even the highest expectations. Nothing can stop you, especially off-road.”

The introductory ex-showroom price of the all-new BMW R 1300 GS is as follows:

BMW R 1300 GS Pro    -           INR 20,95,000

Additionally, three option Styles are also available for individualization – Style Triple Black, Style GS Trophy and 719 Tramuntana.

*Prices prevailing at the time of invoicing will be applicable. Delivery will be made ex-showroom. Ex-showroom price (inclusive of GST and compensation cess) as applicable but excludes Road Tax, RTO statutory taxes/fees, other local tax/cess levies and insurance. Prices and options are subject to change without prior notice. For further information, please contact your local authorized BMW Motorrad Dealer.

The all-new BMW R 1300 GS is available in the following color schemes – Base in Light White metallic, Optional Styles – Triple Black is available in Blackstorm metallic paintwork, GS Trophy is available in the Racing Blue metallic paintwork and the 719 Tramuntana is available in the Aurelius Green metallic paintwork.

To enable customers to own BMW Motorrad motorcycles of their choice, BMW Financial Services India will offer customized and flexible financial solutions. Customers can also get their loans approved before delivery takes place. For complete peace of mind, all BMW Motorrad bikes come with a standard warranty for ‘three years, unlimited kilometers’, with an option to extend the warranty to fourth and fifth year. Road-Side Assistance, a 24x7 365 days package further ensures prompt services in case of breakdown and towing situations.

The all-new BMW R 1300 GS.

The all-new BMW R 1300 GS features an entirely new design which is based on the traditional GS icons while at the same time reflecting extreme compactness and significant weight reduction. With its significantly flatter tank ramp, the flyline is largely responsible for the very dynamic, light and accessible appearance of this motorcycle. Continuing on through the upholstered centre cover over the aluminium fuel tank, the seat gives the GS a typically enduro-style silhouette. A striking break with tradition in terms of design are the new LED Matrix Headlights. The integration of high beam and low beam in a single projector unit results in a redesign of the iconic face of the GS headlamp. With “Headlight Pro” available in all option Styles, the beam of the matrix full LED headlamp turns into the bend according to the banking position.

The all-new BMW R 1300 GS perfectly embodies what the BMW Motorrad development team has endowed the GS legend with: compact arrangement of the components, high functionality of the equipment – and everything focused on the essentials. In Lightwhite solid paint and in conjunction with its sharply drawn lines and very clean appearance, the all-new R 1300 GS has a truly muscular appearance and embodies the boxer GS theme in pristine style. The compact and low front end, together with the adjustable windshield and wide handlebars, provide an excellent overview, while the redefined GS ergonomics offer a confident, relaxed riding position. A sporty, slimline passenger seat, in combination with the functional sports grab handle bridge, emphasises the steeply rising and short rear end and at the same time offers good seating comfort for the passenger. In the basic version, the standard rider’s seat has a seat height of 850 mm and is fitted with a two-tone cover that forms a continuous functional unit in light grey texture extending from the fuel filler cap to the passenger seat. Together with the main frame coated in Gold, the new cross spoke wheels delineate the lower section of the motorcycle against the light front body section, thereby highlighting its powerful appearance.

The Optional Style Triple Black gives the all-new BMW R 1300 GS an even more masculine attitude The rear frame is likewise finished in black, as are most of the other surfaces. Also finished in black, the luggage carrier included in the Triple Black model variant is perfectly integrated in these shapes. In addition, the Style Triple Black has Comfort seats, Comfort passenger footrests and a centre stand. The electrically adjustable high windshield also comes with this style in combination with the cockpit trim and the wind deflectors with the new cross spoke wheels in Black. Optional Adaptive Height Control can be ordered only with Style Triple Black.

The optional Style GS Trophy sets the tone with basic finish Racing blue metallic sets. With red and white tapes and inscriptions combined with a rear frame in white metallic matt, the GS Trophy stands for the highest level of performance and sporty use off-road. The high rider’s comfort seat in combination with the Sport passenger seat offers the look and ergonomics of a rally seat, which in conjunction with the seat cover continued on the fuel tank cover forms a unit that can be used along its entire length. In the spirit of outstanding off-road competence, this optional style is equipped with radiator guards for damage protection. The robust cross-spoke wheels in gold also belong to the range of off-road-oriented fittings.

The all-new BMW R 1300 GS shows its exclusive and technically sophisticated side in the Option 719 Tramuntana. This combines cross-spoke wheels in gold with black components such as the main and rear frames, powertrain and the luggage carrier with grab handle. The gold anodised handlebar provides the perfect accentuation to match the gold-coloured lining on the body components and the gold rim bands. The side trim sections and the front wheel cover at the top are finished in Aurelius Green metallic, while the aluminium tank and intake silencer cover are likewise finished in Aurelius Green metallic but with a matt clear coating. The fuel tank centre cover in Luxor black/grey and the cylinder head covers in Avus black metallic matt blend in harmoniously with this.

The centrepiece of the all-new BMW R 1300 GS is once again the legendary two-cylinder boxer engine. Its new design is more compact than ever before thanks to a gearbox located under the engine and a new camshaft drive arrangement. This is by far the most powerful BMW boxer engine ever to be produced in series, producing an output of 107 kW (145 hp) at 7750 rpm, developing a maximum torque of 149 Nm at 6500 rpm. The boxer engine of the new BMW R 1300 GS is also equipped with the unique BMW ShiftCam technology for varying the valve timing and valve stroke on the intake side.

The entire suspension of the all-new BMW R 1300 GS was redesigned. The centrepiece is the new sheet metal main frame made of steel, which in addition to a significant optimisation of the installation space for even more compact packaging also offers higher levels of stiffness than the predecessor model. The motorcycle features new front wheel guide EVO Telelever with flex element and new rear wheel guide EVO Paralever for even greater steering precision and ride stability.

The all-new BMW R 1300 GS now comes with standard Dynamic Suspension Adjustment (DSA), Shift Assistant Pro, Riding Modes Pro, sport brake as a part of the Dynamic Package. Riding Modes Pro” comprises of three additional riding modes “Dynamic”, “Dynamic Pro” and “Enduro Pro” in addition to The “Rain” and “Road” riding modes which allow riding characteristics to be adapted to most road conditions And “Eco” riding mode which makes it possible to use the innovative BMW ShiftCam technology primarily in such a way that the maximum range can be achieved with a single tank of fuel. The riding mode “Enduro” enables an enhanced riding experience off the beaten track with a specific set-up for off-road use.

Engine drag torque control (MSR) is also available as standard, that can be used to safely avoid unstable riding conditions that can occur during coasting or downshifting due to excessive brake slip at the rear wheel. Hill start control (HSC) Pro is fitted as standard and enables convenient hill starts, even when carrying two people and luggage. The motorcycle comes as standard with a twin disc brake featuring two newly developed, radially mounted four-piston fixed calipers at the front and a single disc brake with two-piston floating calliper at the rear in conjunction with BMW Motorrad Full Integral ABS Pro. The standard Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) offers increased safety when braking, also in difficult situations, by preventing unintentional throttle application.

The all-new BMW R 1300 GS has the equipment feature Connectivity as standard, including a 6.5-inch full-colour TFT screen. In conjunction with the standard BMW Motorrad Multi-Controller with integrated operation, it gives the rider fast access to vehicle and connectivity functions. Standard Comfort package features Centre stand, Adjustable windscreen including high windshield high, cockpit trim and wind deflector, Passenger Kit including Comfort passenger seat, Comfort passenger rest and Luggage carrier. Touring package available only with option Styles include Central locking, preparation for navigation, chrome-plated manifold, left and right case holder, hand protector extension and the topcase holder.

Comfort features include Keyless Ride, heated grips, Smartphone charging compartment with integrated USB socket and additional 12 V on-board power socket as standard. Other standard list of features include Hand protectors with integrated turn indicators, Lithium-ion battery with Battery Guard and Dynamic Cruise Control (DCC) with brake function.

The new BMW R 1300 GS Option 719 Tramuntana features the new Riding Assistant for safe and convenient motorcycling. Active Cruise Control (ACC) with integrated distance control can be used to set the desired riding speed as well as the distance to the vehicle in front. Front Collision Warning (FCW) with brake intervention is designed to prevent collisions and help reduce the severity of accidents, while Lane Change Warning monitors the lanes to the left and right and can help ensure a safe lane change while supporting use of the rear mirror.

A comprehensive range of original BMW Motorcycle accessories & gears are available for further individualization of the all-new BMW R 1300 GS.

Manipal Quest 1.0: MAHE Inter-Health Sciences Postgraduate Research Conference Sets A New Benchmark

Manipal: Kasturba Medical College hosted the first edition of Manipal Quest 1.0, a National MAHE inter-health sciences postgraduate research conference, conducted under the KMC, Manipal postgraduate research vertical. This event marked a significant milestone, drawing over 690 participants, including Medical and surgical postgraduates and PhD scholars from across India. The conference served as a premier platform for emerging researchers to showcase their scientific research work, engage with experts, and expand their professional networks.

The one-day event was packed with 445 scientific paper and poster presentations, alongside thrilling competitions such as a quiz and a journal critique competition. The scientific sessions included engaging talks on pivotal topics like Artificial Intelligence in research, critiquing journal articles, writing review articles, and debating theses. The conference was graced by distinguished experts from around the country, including Dr. Tanuj Kanchan, Dean (Research) at AIIMS, Jodhpur, and Dr. Avinash Supe, Consultant GI surgeon from Mumbai, who delivered inspiring talks that captivated the audience.

The honorable Pro-Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences), Dr. Sharath K. Rao, who envisioned the inter-health sciences conference, unveiled the logo of Manipal Quest-1 and delivered the chief guest address. He was accompanied by Dr. Satish Rao, Director of Research at Manipal Academy of Higher Education. The host institute, led by Dean Dr. Padmaraj Hegde, along with Organizing Chairperson Dr. Anil K. Bhat, Associate Dean, Professor and Head, Department of Hand surgery and Organizing Secretary Dr. Prithvishree Ravindra, Associate Professor, Department of Emergency medicine  outlined their vision for Manipal Quest and emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary research.

Dr. Sharath K. Rao expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Manipal Quest 1.0 exemplifies our commitment to fostering interdisciplinary research and providing a platform for young scholars to present their innovative ideas. This conference marks the beginning of many more collaborative initiatives." Dr. Satish Rao highlighted the significance of the event, saying, "This conference not only showcased the remarkable research being conducted by our postgraduate and PhD scholars but also facilitated the exchange of knowledge and ideas among peers and experts. It is a testament to our dedication to advancing health sciences research."

The conference concluded with a valedictory function, graced by the honorable Vice Chancellor of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Lt. Gen. Dr. M. D. Venkatesh (VSM). During the ceremony, he presented the Young Researcher Award to postgraduate students with notable publications and recognized the winners of podium, poste, quiz, journal critique and logo competitions. Emphasizing ethical research practices, He added, "It is very important for young researchers to conduct their work with integrity and uphold the highest ethical standards. Manipal Quest 1.0 has provided a platform to recognize and celebrate their achievements."

Manipal Quest 1.0 set a new benchmark for postgraduate research conferences, reinforcing MAHE's dedication to fostering innovation and collaboration in health sciences. The success of this inaugural event paves the way for future editions, promising even greater opportunities for young researchers to shine.

Xiaomi 14 CIVI Launches In India: Co-Engineered With Leica, This Camera-Centric Powerhouse Enhances The Xiaomi 14 Series

~Xiaomi doubles-down on camera prowess, design & performance, delivering a complete 2024 flagship smartphone

Xiaomi, a global leader in technology and innovation, unveils the Xiaomi 14 CIVI, a stunning addition to the acclaimed Xiaomi 14 Series. Co-engineered with Leica, Xiaomi 14 CIVI takes forward Xiaomi's legacy in mobile imaging and smartphone photography. The Xiaomi 14 CIVI doubles-down on camera performance while seamlessly inheriting the iconic design language of the Xiaomi 14 Series, marking a significant evolution in the flagship segment. This demonstrates Xiaomi's ongoing commitment to making cutting-edge innovations available to everyone.

"Building on the phenomenal success of the Xiaomi 14 Series, co-engineered with Leica, we're excited to announce the latest addition of the Xiaomi 14 CIVI to the line-up", says Anuj Sharma, Chief Marketing Officer, Xiaomi India. "The Xiaomi 14 Series pushed the boundaries of smartphone photography, innovative design and unmatched performance. Our aim was to expand these latest innovations to a wider audience. With the launch of Xiaomi 14 CIVI, we are rewriting the rules of innovation and redefining what a smartphone in this segment can offer. It delivers a complete flagship experience, from its stunning design to its everyday performance that surpasses benchmarks, all equipped with the best cameras we are offering in this segment. The Xiaomi 14 CIVI isn't just a phone; it's a statement."

A Symphony of Design and Comfort

The Xiaomi 14 Series has redefined mobile excellence with its captivating design and cutting-edge technology. With the Xiaomi 14 CIVI, Xiaomi seamlessly integrates with the series' design language while carving its own unique path.

1.                  Matcha Green: Embracing Nature's Tranquillity

Inspired by nature, Matcha Green features high-end Nano tech vegan leather for exceptional wear resistance, skin-friendly feel, and easy cleaning. It inherits the Xiaomi 14 Ultra's anti-yellowing and anti-peeling properties for lasting beauty. A revolutionary 64% bio-based carbon material derived from sustainable sources, creates a unique parquet pattern on each phone, making every Xiaomi 14 CIVI Matcha Green one-of-a-kind.

2.                  Cruise Blue: A Breathtaking Blend of Blues

The Cruise Blue embodies the awe-inspiring beauty of two distinct bodies of water merging into a mesmerizing blue. Xiaomi has meticulously crafted the underlying patterns beneath the glass, ensuring a smooth surface while maintaining the visual depth. An exceptional Anti-glare glass completes the package, effectively resisting fingerprints and smudges for a pristine look.

3.                  Shadow Black: Understated Elegance with a Stellar Twist

For those who appreciate sophisticated simplicity, the Shadow Black offers a timeless masterpiece. This features a smooth-to-the-touch Anti-glare glass with a sophisticated matte effect, resisting fingerprints and smudges. All three variants of the Xiaomi 14 CIVI boast color-matched metal frames for a unified and premium look.

Beyond aesthetics, the 14 CIVI prioritizes user comfort. By leveraging its unique materials, Xiaomi has achieved an incredibly lightweight design at just 177 grams and 7.4 mm thickness. The phone's unique quad-curved body finish makes it one of the most comfortable phones to hold. In fact, it's the sleekest device in its segment.

A Flagship Display Experience

Xiaomi 14 CIVI boasts a groundbreaking floating Quad-curve display, inherited from the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. This innovative design seamlessly merges aesthetics with practicality, achieving a perfect balance between stunning visuals and comfortable use. It's one of the first displays of its kind in this segment, offering a truly immersive viewing experience. The display features a smooth 120Hz refresh rate for seamless scrolling, while Dolby Vision® certification and support for a staggering 68+ billion colors support a cinematic viewing experience. Xiaomi 14 CIVI is also equipped with Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2 for the screen that has added heightened durability for long-term use.

Powerhouse of Seamless Performance

At the heart of the 14 CIVI lies the new generation flagship Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset. This processor prioritizes a best-in-class ISP (Image Signal Processor) to deliver the exceptional Leica camera experience that users love. Built on the 4nm TMSC process and featuring an X4 super-core and Qualcomm Triple ISP 18-bit technology, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 sets a new standard for speed and efficient power usage.

Xiaomi 14 CIVI boasts an incredible battery life of 4700mAh, lasting up to more than a day on a single charge. With 1600 charge cycles, it maintains 80% health even after 4+ years of heavy use. The in-box 67W Turbo charger ensures full power in no time. The phone is equipped with LPDDR5X RAM, up to 12GB, and UFS 4.0 storage, up to 512GB, ensuring everything runs smoothly and loads at lightning speed.

Powered by Xiaomi's HyperOS, Xiaomi 14 CIVI promises to deliver a user experience like no other. With HyperOS, users can expect a personalized, secure, and powerful experience that sets a new standard for mobile connectivity.

Capture Cinematic Moments with Leica's Partnership and Xiaomi's AI Capabilities

Xiaomi 14 CIVI elevates the smartphone photography experience, joining the Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Ultra in featuring a Leica Summilux lens. It features optically stabilized 50MP f/1.63 Light Hunter 800 primary sensor helping in capture stunning details and vibrant colors in any lighting. This combination creates a beautiful, natural bokeh effect with a shallow depth of field, taking the outcome to new heights. Like other Xiaomi x Leica devices, the 14 CIVI also excels in portrait mode. Capture stunning portraits at 50mm with the dedicated telephoto lens, a focal length ideal for capturing the essence of the subject. Xiaomi 14 CIVI features a 12MP Leica ultra-wide lens with a remarkable 120° field of view, perfect for capturing expansive landscapes and grand architecture. The camera department features Leica’s custom tuning and special Leica photography modes. For flawless group selfies, the dual selfie 32MP ultra-wide- & wide-angle front camera, equipped with AI Group Selfie Mode, ensures everyone fits perfectly into the frame. The front camera has been equipped with autofocus feature so it can better recognize and track faces between two cameras, even when the distance between the camera and the subjects in the photo is increased or the number of people in the frame have increased. The result is superior groupfies with a clearer, more detailed picture.

Xiaomi 14 CIVI delivers unmatched cinematic quality through the powerful combination of Leica optics, Xiaomi's groundbreaking AISP Imaging Brain, and Xiaomi HyperOS.  Additionally, Xiaomi is working on a public beta that will unlock a suite of AI-powered features in the gallery, including AI Magic Erase for removing undesired objects, AI Expansion Tool for extending photo edges, and AI Group Selfie Mode for flawless group shots.

Price & Availability

Xiaomi 14 CIVI will be available in three stunning colours- Matcha Green, Cruise Blue and Shadow Black starting at a net effective price of INR 39,999 for the 8GB + 256 GB variant and INR 44,999 for 12GB + 512 GB, 20th June 2024 onwards exclusively on Flipkart, mi.com and Xiaomi Retail Partners.

Offer details: Users can avail an instant discount of ?3000 with ICICI Credit and Debit cards or avail Xiaomi exchange bonus of ?3,000 for only Xiaomi/Redmi customers, across Mi.com, Amazon.in, Mi Home and Mi Studio, and authorized retail partners

Additionally, pre-booking for Xiaomi 14 CIVI starts today; June 12 at 2pm and is valid till June 19, 2024. Customers pre-booking the all-new Xiaomi 14 CIVI will be eligible for a Redmi Watch 3 Active at no additional cost.

Early Access

Early access sale commences 12th June, 6:00pm onwards at Mi.com, Flipkart and across Mi Homes.

Xiaomi Easy Finance allows users to avail instant credit disbursals with 100% interest-free plan.

Elevating the Smart Kitchen Experience: Introducing Xiaomi Air Fryer 6L

Alongside the 14 CIVI, Xiaomi unveils the Xiaomi Air Fryer 6L, the latest addition to its home device portfolio. Designed with the evolving needs of Indian consumers in mind, particularly larger families, the Xiaomi Air Fryer 6L empowers users to embrace healthier lifestyles without compromising on convenience or taste. It boasts a truly innovative adjustable capacity design. This allows consumer to seamlessly adapt the cooking space to fit their needs, whether they're whipping up a single serving or a feast for the whole family.  The fryer adjusts from a generous 6L capacity down to a more compact 3L, depending on the quantity of food that needs to be prepared.

Xiaomi Smart Air Fryer 6L boasts advanced 360-degree hot air circulation technology for effortless, healthy cooking at home. A powerful 1500W motor and a 9-blade fan work together for rapid and even heat distribution, guaranteeing perfectly cooked food every time. For precise temperature control and maximum efficiency, Xiaomi Air Fryer 6L utilizes NTC temperature control technology. It prioritizes ease and convenience with its inclusion of 6 pre-set cooking modes. Take the guesswork out of meal preparation with options for Grill, Fry, Bake, Defrost, Roast, and Reheat.  Dehydrate fruits and vegetables for healthy snacks with ease. These intuitive settings allow consumers to achieve restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The ingenious non-stick coating on the Air Fryer prevents food from sticking or burning, making post-meal cleanup a breeze.  The Xiaomi Air Fryer 6L seamlessly integrates into smart kitchens, hence promoting a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing convenience for the users.

With Xiaomi Priority users can now experience exclusive premium services, personalized assistance and priority access to the latest Xiaomi innovations.

Price & Availability:

The Xiaomi Air Fryer 6L will be available  from 21st June at INR 5,999 inclusive of INR 1000 ICICI bank offer across Mi.com, Amazon.in, Flipkart and Xiaomi retail partners.

Media Toolkit:

Videos-https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/14PSb3Ue93UAG4r0ScudLcLJjuANcZsE7?usp=sharing

Photos: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1NfdXvrT0LlnHVh24MpSKIbjp6wFG8i4F

Avik Das Cracks JEE-Advanced And NEET-UG 2024 In First Go, Studying Online With ALLEN Digital

* Avik secured: All India Rank (AIR) 69 in the JEE-Advanced with 307/360, 705/720 in NEET-UG, and AIR 7 in the West Bengal Joint Entrance Exam (WBJEE) and topped the West Bengal State Board with a stellar 99.2%

ALLEN Digital announces the outstanding accomplishments of its Online Program student Avik Das, who has secured All India Rank (AIR) 69 in the JEE (Advanced) examination with an impressive score of 307/360. Avik's achievements extend beyond this–he scored an exceptional 705/720 in NEET-UG and topped the West Bengal State Board with a stellar 99.2% score. Additionally, he stood 7th in the West Bengal Joint Entrance Exam (WBJEE).

Hailing from Alipurduar, West Bengal, Avik attributes his success to the top-notch faculty, high-quality content and personalised guidance provided by ALLEN Online Programs. “I chose to prepare for these competitive exams online because I wanted to stay close to my family and have their support throughout this journey. The guidance from my faculty and mentors, combined with the targeted practice offered on the ALLEN App, helped me achieve this phenomenal milestone,'' said Avik. His love for physics was inspired by his grandfather, a math teacher, and his first mentor. Talking about the road ahead, he says he wants to pursue Astrophysics at IISc Bangalore, renowned for its research excellence.

Other standout achievements for ALLEN Digital in the JEE (Advanced) 2024 include that of Mayukh Chowdhury (AIR 161) from Kolkata and Garv Chaudha (AIR 163) from Jabalpur.

Abha Maheshwari, CEO of ALLEN Digital, said, “Combining our best-in-class faculty, robust curriculum, and state-of-the-art AI-based ALLEN app, we are building on our 36-year legacy to help thousands of students realise their dreams. Our online learning programs have been designed to tackle critical challenges often associated with online education, ensuring personalised content and strong out-of-class support. The extraordinary results from our ALLEN Online Programs students this year reflect our commitment to academic excellence.”

Additionally, ALLEN Digital celebrates the success of thousands of its students in the JEE (Advanced) and NEET-UG examinations in 2024. 14 ALLEN Online Programs students made it to the top 500 AIR in JEE (Adv.) 2024, while five students achieved a perfect score of 720/720 in NEET-UG.

As an industry first, Allen Career Institute, the parent company of ALLEN Digital, has set a new benchmark in transparency and credibility this year. EY (Ernst & Young) has independently verified the authenticity of these results.

Digital The Most Lucrative Channel for FMCG Brands: Meta Studies

* Meta commissioned studies with leading firms Nielsen and Kantar show that return on investment from digital trumps other mediums for the FMCG sector

* Nielsen study: RoI which is the incremental revenue generated per Rupee invested is 1.42 for digital mediums vis-a-vis 0.95 non-digital mediums. Within this, the RoI from Meta is 1.76 for every rupee invested

* Kantar study:  Meta has been instrumental in driving brand imagery where around 20% of all media led brand growth comes from Meta

* Both Meta studies quote investment by FMCG/CPG brands on Meta poses stronger returns indexed to traditional channels across categories like food, household care, personal care, baby care, laundry, and health & hygiene

On the sidelines of Meta Marketing Summit - FMCG edition  held in Mumbai, the company announced findings from several Meta commissioned studies with leading market research firms Nielsen and Kantar that show the growing relevance of digital for the country’s FMCG sector. Among the key findings, the studies call out digital platforms, especially Meta, a crucial pillar in driving brand imagery, equity, and higher return on investment across categories. 

Said Arun Srinivas, Director and Head (India), Ads Business, Meta, “The FMCG industry is a leading contributor to the country's overall ad-ex, and a marked shift in its media consumption patterns is going to be significant for the country’s creative ecosystem and the digital economy. The studies with Neilsen and Kantar clearly demonstrate the transformative power of digital channels for the FMCG sector. Catering to such an important industry, we are excited to see Meta platforms not only enhancing brand imagery and mindshare but also delivering exceptional returns on media investments.”

The Nielsen study noted that the return on investment (RoI), which is the incremental revenue generated per Rupee invested is 1.42 for digital mediums vis-a-vis 0.95 non-digital mediums. Within this, the RoI from Meta is 1.76 for every rupee invested.

On the other hand, the Kantar study reveals that  the digital platforms, especially Meta, contribute significantly in building a brand. Meta has been instrumental in driving brand imagery where around 20% of all media led brand growth comes from Meta.  Furthermore, digital media channels led by Meta provide the highest ROI for building mind measures, according to the study. 

Both the studies highlight that the investment by FMCG/CPG brands on Meta poses stronger returns indexed to traditional channels across categories including food, household care, personal care, baby care, laundry, and health & hygiene.

The summit was attended by prominent industry leaders and brands from the FMCG industry that shed light on the evolving consumer landscape and its effects on changing brand strategies, the use of Reels, AI and Business Messaging as new frontiers of marketing, and brands leveraging Meta platforms for enhancing their reach and growth. 

“In today’s fragmented ecosystem, quantifying the effectiveness of media strategies has become a daunting challenge. Cross platform nuances require a laser focused approach to uncover what truly drives performance. Nielsen Marketing Mix Modeling (MMM) enables marketers to assess the impact of their investments, understand what is working, and unlocks several opportunities to increase ROI and drive profit, bringing accuracy and simplicity to an increasingly complex advertising environment in India,” said Abhinav Maheshwari, VP APAC Nielsen, Marketing Effectiveness. 

Meta commissioned Nielsen to conduct an FMCG Meta-Analysis for India, an extensive study covering MMMs for FMCG categories including food, beverage, personal care, home care, health & hygiene, and others. Nielsen leveraged the Nielsen Compass repository of Marketing ROI norms, and looked at performance of all channels including TV, Other Traditional (Radio, Print and OOH), META, Online Video, and Other Digital (Display and Search). The learnings cover the role of media channels in driving sales, how ROIs compare across media channels, and how ROIs compare across categories. FMCG advertisers can greatly benefit from the Meta-Analysis insights to drive better marketing decisions, added Nielsen.

Meta also released the findings from cross media studies by Kantar. Cross Media is  a Kantar preferred and industry accepted solution to evaluate the brand impact for a multi-media campaign. Kantar built the most robust Meta-analysis of Cross Media studies in India covering more than 140 campaigns across industries from 2012 -2023.

PhonePe Partners With PickMe To Enable Contactless Payments For Indian Travellers In Sri Lanka

PhonePe, has announced its collaboration with PickMe, Sri Lanka’s leading ride-hailing platform, to enable seamless UPI-based QR payments for Indian travellers in Sri Lanka. The partnership signifies a major step forward in enhancing their travel experience through the convenience of cashless transactions on their PickMe rides from the moment they exit the Bandaranaike International Airport.

While travelling, managing foreign currency and ensuring enough cash on hand for various expenses can often become a hassle. By integrating PhonePe’s UPI-based QR payment system into their platform, PickMe aims to minimise that stress for Indian travellers visiting Sri Lanka. PhonePe users can make secure and quick payments for their rides with UPI.

Commenting on the collaboration, Ritesh Pai, CEO, International Payments at PhonePe, added, “Our partnership with PickMe exemplifies the company’s commitment to provide Indian travellers with convenient and trusted payment solutions. Travel is all about exploring new cultures, where food and local shopping are an integral part of that adventure. Previously, navigating payments in a new country could be a hassle. Now, with PhonePe, Indian tourists visiting the beautiful island nation of Sri Lanka can enjoy the ease and security of UPI payments for their rides.”

Jiffry Zulfer, CEO of PickMe added, “Currently, we are the only ride-hailing platform in Sri Lanka to offer such a service to Indian travellers, and we hope to continue to innovate so that we make our ride-hailing service a convenient, safe and cost-effective mode of transportation for everyone. This collaboration not only enhances the convenience for Indian travellers but also supports our mission to drive digital transformation in Sri Lanka’s transportation sector. By enabling QR payments, we are making travel easier and safer for tourists while also providing a new revenue stream for our drivers.”

The collaboration follows the launch of PhonePe last month, wherein the Indian High Commissioner H.E. Santosh Jha had urged companies in Sri Lanka to engage with Indian companies to build on the UPI stack for innovations in hotel bookings, cab bookings, delivery services etc. The High Commissioner commended such collaborations saying, “I am confident that with greater commercial engagement in the fintech sector, India and Sri Lanka will unlock innovation and transformation in the digital domain.”

Sri Lanka is one of the most popular destinations among Indian travellers. This collaboration underscores PhonePe’s commitment to adding more value to the overall experience of Indian travellers by allowing them to use familiar services like UPI during their visit.

About PhonePe

PhonePe Group, launched in August 2016, is India’s leading fintech company. The PhonePe digital payments app has scaled rapidly, now boasting over 535 million registered users and a digital payments acceptance network of 39 million merchants. With over 255 million daily transactions and an annualised Total Payment Value (TPV) of over USD 1.5 trillion, PhonePe has firmly established itself as a leader in digital payments. The company has expanded into various financial services, including insurance, lending, and wealth management, as well as new consumer tech businesses like Pincode (hyperlocal e-commerce) and Indus App Store (India's first localised app store).

For more details:media@phonepe.com

About PickMe

PickMe is Sri Lanka's leading ride-hailing and food delivery platform, providing convenient and reliable transportation solutions to millions of users across the country. Established in 2015, PickMe has grown rapidly, leveraging technology to revolutionise the transportation industry in Sri Lanka.

Magenta Mobility Deepens Collaboration With Tata Motors For Commercial Vehicle

* Deploys over 100 units of Tata Ace EV – India's most advanced, zero-emission small commercial vehicle

Magenta Mobility, an integrated electric mobility solutions provider, solidifies its partnership with Tata Motors, India's largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, with the deployment of over 100 units of Tata Ace EV which include over 60 units of Ace EV and over 40 units of the recently launched Ace EV 1000. This deployment is part of the MoU inked between the two entities in October 2023, which targeted 500 units of the revolutionary Tata Ace EV.

Mr. Maxson Lewis, Founder & CEO of Magenta Mobility, expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to deepen our collaboration with Tata Motors, furthering our commitment to delivering safe, smart, and sustainable mobility solutions across India. The deployment of 100+ Tata Ace EVs marks a significant stride towards our ambitious 'Ab Ki Baar Dus Hazaar' program, aimed at deploying 10,000 electric vehicles by September 2025. By synergizing Tata Motors’ expertise in four-wheel small commercial vehicles (SCVs) with our integrated capabilities in logistics, charging infrastructure, and technology, this partnership is poised to redefine industry standards."

Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Vinay Pathak, Vice President & Business Head – SCVPU, Tata Motors, said, “Marking a major milestone in our partnership with Magenta Mobility, we take immense pride in the deployment of Tata Ace EVs into their fleet. This reaffirms our shared vision of revolutionising intra-city distribution through advanced, zero-emission mobility solutions. The Ace EV, a product of our co-creation efforts, offers unparalleled performance, reliability and operational efficiency, while contributing to a greener future for India. This deployment is a testament to our unwavering commitment to democratising sustainable e-cargo transportation across the nation. Together, we are paving the way for a cleaner, greener and more environmentally conscious future for India."

The Ace EV is powered by EVOGEN powertrain that offers an unparalleled driving experience with a 7-year battery warranty and a 5-year comprehensive maintenance package. It delivers safe, all-weather operations with an advanced battery cooling system and regenerative braking system to boost the driving range. It allows regular and fast charging capabilities for high uptime. It is powered by a 27kW (36hp) motor with 130Nm of peak torque, to ensure best-in-class pickup and grade-ability allowing easy ascend in fully loaded conditions. The vehicle’s robust performance, with near-100% uptime, has received an overwhelming response from customers.

Magenta Mobility is backed by esteemed investors including HPCL, bp, Morgan Stanley, JITO Angel Network, and renowned Indian American philanthropist Dr. Kiran Patel. The company is at the forefront of the electric mobility revolution, spearheading initiatives that promote sustainability and innovation in India's transportation landscape. With the extension of its partnership with Tata Motors and the deployment of 100 Tata Ace EVs, Magenta reaffirms its commitment to decarbonising logistics.

About Magenta Mobility:

Magenta Mobility is a leading end-to-end integrated E-Mobility solutions provider. The company is committed to the vision of “Decarbonizing Logistics” by providing safe, smart, and sustainable delivery solutions across the country. They are building India’s safest and smartest electric mobility ecosystem. Currently, they have 2000 electric fleet vehicles spread across 17 cities in India serving clients in the e-commerce, grocery, FMCG, food, and pharmaceuticals industries for their last-mile deliveries. Under the campaign of ‘Ab Ki Baar Dus Hazaar,’ Magenta targets to have 10,000 cargo vehicles operating under its portfolio. Furthermore, they have their own Electric Fleet Management System which makes them an excellent partner for businesses looking to achieve practical portability goals in decarbonization. For more information, visit www.magentamobility.com.

About Tata Motors:

Part of the USD 150 billion Tata group, Tata Motors Limited (BSE: 500570 and 570001; NSE: TATAMOTORS and TATAMTRDVR), a USD 44 billion organization, is a leading global automobile manufacturer of cars, utility vehicles, pick-ups,  trucks, and buses, offering an extensive range of integrated, smart, and e-mobility solutions. With ‘Connecting Aspirations’ at the core of its brand promise, Tata Motors is India’s market leader in commercial vehicles and ranks among the top three in the passenger vehicles market.

Tata Motors strives to bring new products that captivate the imagination of GenNext customers, fuelled by state-of-the-art design and R&D centres located in India, the UK, the US, Italy, and South Korea. By focusing on engineering and tech- enabled automotive solutions catering to the future of mobility, the company’s innovation efforts are focused on developing pioneering technologies that are both sustainable and suited to the evolving market and customer aspirations. The company is pioneering India's Electric Vehicle (EV) transition and driving the shift towards sustainable mobility solutions by developing a tailored product strategy, leveraging the synergy between Group companies and playing an active role in liaising with the Government of India in developing the policy framework.

With operations in India, UK, South Korea, Thailand and Indonesia, Tata Motors markets its vehicles in Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the SAARC countries. As of March 31, 2024, Tata Motors’ operations include 90 consolidated subsidiaries, two joint operations, five joint ventures, and numerous equity-accounted associates, including their subsidiaries, over which the company exercises significant influence.