Toyota Kirloskar Auto Parts Qualifies for Incentive Under PLI Scheme

Bangalore, February 24, 2024: Toyota Kirloskar Auto Parts Pvt Ltd (TKAP), a part of Toyota Group of companies, today announced that it has received the Domestic Value Addition (DVA) Certificate for xEV Transaxle (e-Drive) under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Advanced Automotive Technology (AAT) products. This development renders TKAP eligible to avail incentives under the Scheme.

TKAP’s product has also met the Testing criteria of Advanced Automotive Technology, and it is certified by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).

Established in 2002, TKAP is engaged in the manufacture and sale of automotive rear axles, propeller shafts, and transmission units. Over the years, the company has grown rapidly to emerge as a significant manufacturer of drive train parts and assemblies (xEV Transaxle) in the Toyota group.

Aligned with “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” and in resonance with Toyota Group’s commitment towards “mass electrification”, TKAP in 2022 set up an advanced manufacturing facility to produce xEV Transaxle (e-Drive) for domestic supply to Toyota Kirloskar Motor and export to Japan and other Asian countries, in a step towards making India Toyota Asia’s Electrification Hub. The new facility, fourth outside Japan, has an annual installed capacity of 135,000 units making it the best-case point of India’s emergence as a global manufacturing hub for EV parts. The product is a core component in all Electrified Vehicle technologies (xEVs) including Strong Hybrid Electric Vehicle (SHEV), Plus-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV), Flex Fuel Strong Hybrid Electric Vehicle (FFV-SHEV).

xEV Transaxle

Furthermore, apart from the localization of the electrified parts/components, TKAP has also been successful in localizing its plant and machineries that are being used to produce these local parts/components to a large extent.

Commenting on the development and expressing his gratitude to the Government, K N Prasad, Managing Director, Toyota Kirloskar Auto Parts, said “Given the renewed capability of Indian auto industry and the strong continued Government support through schemes such as PLI, we have made visible progress in establishing India as a critical manufacturing hub of advance, clean and efficient vehicles aimed at attending competitive pricing in the future,”

For rapid electrification, it is necessary to localize and manufacture EV parts in India at a global scale and quality. Hence, the mandatory local value addition criteria set by the Ministry of Heavy Industries, Government of India enables further competitiveness in the locally manufactured Advanced Automotive Technology products.

The robust and thorough SOP established by the Ministry of Heavy Industries and IFCI in consultation with stakeholders has enabled applicants to prepare appropriately and meet the established criteria.”

Over the years, Toyota Group of companies has been a significant contributor to the country’s “Make-in-India” Mission. The Group, including Toyota Kirloskar Motor, Toyota Kirloskar Auto Parts and Toyota Industries Engine India have invested more than INR 16,000 crores until December 2023.

Zomato Unveils Gold Carnival: Brings exclusive offers & experiences for Gold members

New Delhi, February 24, 2024 – Zomato, India’s food ordering and delivery platform, has introduced Gold Carnival, a carnival providing a range of exciting offers and experiences exclusively for Zomato Gold members across 29 cities in India. In addition to offers on food ordering and dining out, the carnival provides exclusive access to privileges at 20,000+ partnered restaurants. To sweeten the deal, the carnival also brings member-only benefits from top payment partners and lifestyle brands.

Rakesh Ranjan, CEO, Food Delivery, Zomato, said, “Gold Carnival is a celebration of our Gold members and partnered restaurants, where we are offering exclusive access to never-seen-before culinary delights and privileges. Delivering exceptional customer experience remains our utmost priority. We are confident that the Gold Carnival will be a delight for both our key stakeholders, restaurant partners and customers.”

Gold Carnival brings exclusive bragging rights for Gold members. Be it limited edition menus from select restaurant partners, or never-seen-before exclusive benefits on Amazon Prime membership, Adidas, Cleartrip, and many more, Zomato Gold membership has truly been elevated. Zomato has also partnered with Amazon Pay for the Gold Carnival, which will enable members to receive cashback on making payments using Amazon Pay balance.

On Delivery, Gold members can enjoy a variety of exclusive offers by partnered restaurants such as Flash Deals where members can get 35% to 50% Flat OFF, or Happy Hours which gets them 1 + 1 deals every day from 4 pm to 7 pm. There’s also Deal Of The Day, which drops a new amazing offer every day.

On Dining, Gold members can enjoy up to 50% off on their dining bills when they pre-book and pay through the Zomato App. Gold members also get to participate in “The Gold Heist ” where they can choose to dine in at five restaurants of their choice and transact to win a reward.

CUT&STYLE Salon Unveils Exquisite New Branch in Bangalore’s Vijaya Bank Layout

CUT&STYLE Salon Unveils Exquisite New Branch in Bangalore's Vijaya Bank LayoutCUT&STYLE Salon, a trailblazer in the beauty and wellness industry, proudly announces the grand opening of its newest branch nestled in the heart of Bangalore’s Vijaya Bank Layout. This state-of-the-art salon promises an unparalleled fusion of contemporary design and cultural richness, embodying the essence of Bangalore’s harmonious spirit.

Inspired by the city’s ethos of harmony and diversity, CUT&STYLE Salon’s Vijaya Bank Layout branch offers a seamless blend of modern elegance and traditional charm. As guests enter the salon, they are enveloped in a serene ambiance adorned with lush greenery, reminiscent of Bangalore’s well-deserved moniker as the Garden City.

The interior design, characterized by soothing earth tones and natural textures, transforms the space into a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. This thoughtful approach reflects the salon’s commitment to providing a holistic experience for its clientele.

“We are thrilled to introduce our latest salon in Vijaya Bank Layout, a space where beauty meets tranquility,” said Mr Aditya Sharma, CEO at CUT&STYLE Salon. “Our aim is to create a haven where guests can escape the bustling energy of the city and indulge in a holistic journey of beauty and wellness.”

CUT&STYLE Salon’s Vijaya Bank Layout branch boasts an array of services tailored to cater to diverse beauty needs. Clients can choose from indulgent options such as pedicure, manicure, hair spa, styling, haircuts, head massage, premium facial, and hair color. The salon takes pride in its team of skilled professionals who are dedicated to enhancing the natural beauty of each client, boosting their confidence with personalized care.

“We invite everyone to experience the magic of CUT&STYLE Salon at our Vijaya Bank outlet,” added Mr Aditya Sharma. “Treat yourself to a rejuvenating experience, and let our skilled professionals elevate your beauty and confidence.”

The grand opening of CUT&STYLE Salon’s Vijaya Bank Layout branch marks a significant milestone for the brand as it continues to redefine beauty and wellness in Bangalore. The salon invites journalists and influencers to witness the grandeur and sophistication of this new establishment.

Habitat for Humanity India organises the 5th edition of its annual Charity Golf Tournament in Mumbai to support families in need of decent housing

Habitat for Humanity India organises the 5th edition of its annual Charity Golf Tournament in Mumbai to support families in need of decent housingMumbai, 24th February 2024: Business leaders from Mumbai came together to champion the cause of housing for underprivileged families at the 5th edition of annual Habitat Charity Golf Tournament organised by leading housing non-profit organisation Habitat for Humanity India. 

Held at the prestigious Willingdon Sports Club in Mumbai, the proceeds from the charity golf tournament will be used to improve the housing conditions of tribal families in Palghar district (Maharashtra). Through the past four editions of the tournamentHabitat for Humanity India has touched the lives of more than 250 families through interventions in housing, WASH (water, sanitation, hygiene) and disaster risk reduction and response.

The 5th Habitat Charity Golf witnessed a total of 85 participants – including 10 women – who are distinguished business leaders, entrepreneurs and Golf enthusiasts. Some of the prominent leaders who took part in the 5th edition include Harsh Mariwala, Founder and Chairman – Marico; Arjun Nohwar, General Manager, South Asia – Warner Bros. Discovery and Luis Noda, Area Vice President – Asia Pacific, Habitat for Humanity International.

 They were joined by renowned industry leaders for a gala dinner held later in the evening to raise awareness about the need for housing. 

Commenting on the tournamentJames Samuel, National Director (Interim), Habitat for Humanity India said, “Habitat for Humanity India believes that the right to decent shelter is a fundamental right of every citizen and is committed to create a world where everyone has a decent place to live. The annual charity golf tournament is our effort to raise awareness about the need for housing. We thank all the participants and our supporters for advocating the cause of affordable housing. This initiative will help families in need of decent shelter achieve the strength, stability, and self-reliance they need to build a better future.” 

“A decent shelter provides a foundation for a family to build a better future. I believe in the profound impact of housing which empowers people’s lives. Through this charity golf tournament organised by Habitat for Humanity India, we come together to support this meaningful cause,” said Harsh Mariwala, Founder and Chairman, Marico who participated in the tournament. 

“Shelter is a human being’s fundamental need and this unique initiative by Habitat for Humanity India enables us to make a difference to the lives of families who need decent shelter. We also see, firsthand, the impact Habitat India is making on ground. This is one of the main reasons why I look forward to taking part in Habitat for Humanity India’s Charity Golf Tournament, every year,” said Arjun Nohwar, General Manager, South Asia – Warner Bros. Discovery, who took part in the tournament. 

The 5th edition of Habitat for Humanity India Charity Golf Tournament is supported by Value Quest, Goodrich Maritime Private Limited, Chemical Process Piping and The Pant Project.  

Epson Unveils Two New Cutting-Edge Document Scanner

Epson Unveils Two New Cutting-Edge Document ScannerIndia, 24th February, 2024: Epson, a global leader in digital imaging solutions, announced the addition of two cutting-edge document scanners, the DS-C330 and DS-C490, to its existing product lineup. These compact scanners are designed with a small footprint, delivering efficient scan speeds, and enhancing productivity for businesses.

The scanners are the rollover models of the DS-310 and DS-410, offering additional value with increased speed, reduced footprint, and capabilities such as passport and passbook scanning. With a persistent commitment to environmental sustainability, the main body consists of 34% recycled plastics without compromising performance.

The DS-C330 excels with a minimal footprint, versatile media handling, and efficient scan speed. It is ideal for compact spaces. Meanwhile, the DS-C490, with its ultra-compact design, handles diverse media types, including passports and 5mm thick booklets. Its U-turn feature enables scanning without increasing the device’s footprint. This design allows 2 in 1 scanning functionality of U-turn path & straight path, making the scanners more versatile to handle different paper types. Remarkably small and lightweight, it features a vertical paper feed system, saving up to 60 percent of desk space, ensuring productivity in limited spaces.

These exceptionally versatile scanning solutions are designed to handle a wide range of A4 and legal-size documents, envelopes, PL cards, long paper etc. With numerous enhancement features, users can improve text sharpness, correct edge folds, tears, border shadows, and even remove punch holes. The built-in Ultra-sonic sensor guarantees the prevention of double feeding, providing space so that all pages are captured accurately.

Key features of the newly launched scanners 

DS-C490

  • Saves 60% of desk space with a compact design.
  • Captures both sides in a single pass at 40 ppm/80 ipm.
  • Equipped with a 20-page Auto Document Feeder for efficient scanning.
  • Scans documents of varying sizes up to 215.9 mm x 5580 mm.
  • Ultra-compact with the smallest footprint, even in use.
  • Versatile scanning for passports, receipts, invoices, cards, and more.
  • Two-in-one functionality with U-turn pass and straight pass options.
  • Lower environmental impact with power consumption of 3.3W in ready mode and 1.0W in sleep mode.
  • Includes Document Capture Pro, a powerful document capture software.

  DS-C330

  • Super-speeds of up to 30 ppm/60 ipm (Simplex/Duplex)
  • Maximum resolution of up to 1200 dpi
  • Document size support of up to 215.9mm x 3048 mm
  • Capacity to handle up to 20 sheets.
  • Fast scan speeds of up to 30 ppm/60 ipm
  • Flexible scanning with Vertical Path and Straight Path
  • Scan modes Versatile media handling, including envelopes, long paper, and passports.
  • Compact design with dimensions of 296x104x125mm
  • Made from up to 34% recycled plastics.

Prabagaran S, Senior General Manager, Epson India says “Epson’s latest document scanners, the DS-C330 and DS-C490, seamlessly blend innovation with functionality to improve your business operations. These compact scanners, with swift scan speeds and versatile capabilities, are designed to boost productivity in limited spaces. The commitment to environmental sustainability adds an extra layer of value, aligning technology with eco-conscious practices. Whether managing passports, booklets, or various document types, these scanners ensure precision and efficiency, providing a seamless solution for diverse needs.”

Empowering Global Growth: Top 5 Companies Shaping the Future of the Private Market Sector

In recent years, the global private market sector has experienced remarkable growth, reflecting a dynamic shift in investment strategies towards more private transactions. With the market’s value surpassing $7.3 trillion in 2020 and projected to reach an impressive $14.2 trillion by 2026, the sector is experiencing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.2%. This upward trajectory is even more pronounced within the private equity market, which stood at $4.74 trillion in 2021 and is expected to exceed $8.6 trillion by 2025, showcasing a CAGR of 14.4%. The venture capital market, not to be left behind, valued at $392 billion in 2023, is anticipated to grow to $594 billion by 2026. This expansion is fueled by several factors, including low-interest rates, ample investor capital, and significant technological innovations, particularly in high-growth sectors like technology and healthcare. The average valuation of private equity companies is projected to increase from $3.7 billion in 2022 to $4.5 billion by 2025, while the number of venture capital-backed companies achieving “unicorn” status is on the rise, indicating a robust and burgeoning industry.

Amid this flourishing landscape, several key players have emerged as pivotal forces, shaping the future of the global private market sector through innovation, strategic investment, and a deep understanding of market dynamics. These companies, including Oxane Partners, Motilal Oswal Private Equity (MOPE), IDFC, Accel Partners, and Barclays, have made significant contributions to the sector’s growth and evolution. By enhancing market transparency, providing cutting-edge platforms, services, and technologies, and facilitating streamlined processes for market participants, they have not only propelled their own growth but have also played a crucial role in the overall expansion of the global private market. Each of these organizations brings a unique set of resources, expertise, and strategic approaches to the table, ranging from technological innovations to specialized investment strategies in high-growth sectors. As the private market sector continues to evolve, these leading companies are well-positioned to drive further growth, unlocking new opportunities for global investors and companies alike.

1- Oxane Partners-

Oxane Partners (“Oxane”) plays a pivotal role in enhancing the private market sector on a global scale as it is a global management consulting firm and technology-driven solutions provider for the private market industry. They are revolutionizing the way investment firms and banks analyze and manage their investments, offering compelling solutions to industry challenges. Their proven track record is evidenced by over $400 billion in notional value for over 100 clients, spanning global investment banks, private credit, private equity, hedge funds, and alternative asset managers. With offices in Gurgaon, Hyderabad, London and New York, their team of 250+ professionals supports clients in more than 20 geographies worldwide. playing a pivotal role in enhancing the private market sector on a global scale.

2-Motilal Oswal Private Equity-

Motilal Oswal Private Equity (MOPE) is an India-focused private equity firm that primarily invests in mid-market companies across various sectors such as consumer, financial services, healthcare, and manufacturing. The primary focus is investing in mid-income residential projects of these developers. MOA has expertise across all investment structures (equity, structured equity, mezzanine debt, senior debt) and across all asset classes (residential, commercial and retail). A sound and robust investment strategy, along with hands-on approach of asset management has helped deliver consistent and superior performance to investors over the years.

3- IDFC- 

IDFC (Infrastructure Development Finance Company) is primarily an Indian financial institution that focuses on financing and promoting infrastructure projects in the country. As one of India’s top financial institutions, IDFC offers a variety of services, including financing and developing infrastructure. It is one of the most trusted companies, offering a deep engagement model that seeks to institutionalize family-owned businesses, develop strategies to help these companies achieve transformational growth, and implement systems for sustained success that facilitate a profitable exit within a 4-6 year timeframe. IDFC is a pioneering private equity investor in several businesses, ranging from healthcare to clean energy.

4- Accel Partners-

Accel, formerly known as Accel Partners, is an American venture capital firm that operates within the private market sector on a global scale. The company invests in early-stage and growth-stage companies across different sectors, providing them with the financial support needed to grow and scale their businesses. By backing innovative startups with strong potential, it contributes to the development of new technologies and business models, driving progress in various industries. Beyond financial investment, it provides strategic guidance and operational support to its portfolio companies. This assistance helps startups navigate challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and build sustainable businesses.

5- BARCLAYS

Barclays, a British universal bank, provides support to consumers and small businesses through its retail banking services, as well as to larger businesses and institutions through corporate and investment banking services. It stands as a significant global financial services provider, encompassing retail banking, credit cards, corporate and investment banking, and wealth management.

In a bid to raise capital privately and sidestep direct equity investment from the UK government, which was being offered to bolster its capital ratio, Barclays held firm to the belief that maintaining independence from government intervention was in the best interests of its shareholders.

The aforementioned companies have made crucial contributions to the tremendous expansion and evolution of the global private market industry. These companies have improved transparency in the market while also offering innovative products, platforms, and technologies that simplify procedures for players in the private market. Every participant contributes different resources and experience to the table, ranging from promoting entrepreneurial innovation to changing investment analysis. These powerful organizations are in a position to propel more expansion as the private market environment develops, opening doors for global investors and companies.

Emcure Launches Unmask Anemia, an Initiative to Help Women Assess Anemia Risk with a Self-test

Bengaluru, February 24, 2024: Emcure Pharmaceuticals is an Indian pharmaceutical company with a focus on the women healthcare segment, announced the launch of ‘Unmask Anemia’, an initiative to create awareness around iron deficiency anemia in India. The initiative aims to raise awareness and improve detection and treatment of iron deficiency anemia in women across India”.

In a video message released by Emcure, actress turned author Twinkle Khanna, who is also an advocate for women’s rights, draws interesting inferences around women empowerment from various ad campaigns. She also urges brands to join Emcure in spreading awareness about anemia calling upon women to visit Unmask Anemia website (https://unmaskanemia.com/taketest) and take the self-test. Through this compelling message, Emcure and Twinkle Khanna ask Indian women to stop ignoring the symptoms of iron deficiency and get themselves assessed for the risk of anemia.

Iron deficiency is one of the most common causes of anemia and its prevalence among Indian women is the highest in the world. As per the latest National Family Health Survey, the prevalence of anemia in women between the age group of 15 to 49 years is as high as 57% in the country. The symptoms of anemia like fatigue, weakness, hair fall etc. usually considered normal and are often ignored by women. Lack of awareness and action about their health and nutritional parameters makes testing for anemia imperative.

The online self-test aims to simplify the process of assessing the risk of iron deficiency anemia. The test is designed based on the common signs and symptoms of the condition. These symptoms often go unnoticed or are misattributed, hence unmasking becomes crucial.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Namita Vikas Thapar, Whole-time Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals, said, “Despite advances in anemia interventions, its burden remains significant in India. Every second woman in the country suffers from iron deficiency anemia, but the lack of awareness prevents timely diagnosis. Emcure has been trying to address this deficit of iron in women for many years and we are proud to have a strong woman like Twinkle Khanna supporting us in our endeavour. We hope that our initiative of ‘Unmask Anemia’ will help bring about awareness and an increase in anemia screening, diagnosis and treatment. We have been passionately doing a host of things around patient education and awareness, including one of a kind show on women’s health called ‘Uncondition Yourself’ on YouTube, and Unmask Anemia is an extension of such initiatives”

Sharing his views on the initiative, Dr. Jaydeep Tank, President FOGSI said, “Screening of women of all age-groups, timely iron supplementation and spreading awareness can make a huge difference. Adolescent girls and women of childbearing age are at greater risk due to loss of blood during menstruation, and pregnancy. An easily accessible preliminary assessment followed by desired medical advice will greatly help tackle the problem.

‘Unmask Anemia’ campaign is part of Emcure Pharmaceutical’s Anemia Mukt Nari mission that aims to raise awareness and improve detection and treatment of iron deficiency anemia in women across India. This initiative by Emcure Pharmaceuticals complements the Indian government’s mission of Anemia Mukt Bharat.

SATTE 2024 second day witnessed record participation from buyers and exhibitors

SATTE 2024 second day witnessed record participation from buyers and exhibitorsHyderabad/Greater Noida, 24th February 2024: South Asia’s leading travel show SATTE 2024, organized by Informa Markets in India (IMI), commenced at the India Expo Mart, Greater Noida, Delhi NCR. The three-day event is being held from 22nd to 24th February 2024 and will spotlight the theme of ‘Inclusive and Sustainable Tourism’, marking its 31st edition as a pivotal milestone in the global tourism industry.

On the second day, SATTE Awards was organized which is a unique initiative intended to recognize industry stake holder from across the travel, tourism and hospitality industry along with National and State Tourism Boards (NTOs and STOs).

From the top players to fledgling start-ups, industry professionals strive to provide breathtaking innovative products & solutions. There is a need to recognise & reward such initiatives, that will further drive the evolution of the market, contributing to the vision of Incredible India. Part of the awards comprised ‘Shakti – Honouring Women Achievers,’ underscoring SATTE’s commitment to recognizing the invaluable contributions of women entrepreneurs, business owners and corporate professionals in the field.

With all its engagements, SATTE provides the ultimate platform to propel the industry.

Speaking on the opportunities of the sector, Mr Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director of Informa Markets – India stated, “In the light of India’s remarkable GDP growth of 7.9%, and a record per capita income of ₹2.12 lakh in FY24, the nation is poised for massive tourism expansion. With inbound tourist numbers reaching 9 million last year and an ambitious target of 12 million this year, coupled with the lucrative spiritual tourism that is expected to grow annually at over 16 per cent between in the next few years, the tourism sector is forecasted to yield a revenue of 59 billion by 2028, creating 140 million temporary and permanent jobs by 2030.”

He further added in the interim budget of 2024, the government has initiated the expansion of the Vande Bharat fleet of trains to help reduce travel time, enhance the passenger experience, and accelerate tourism growth. It is also working towards developing roads for better transportation.

“By 2028, international tourist arrivals are expected to reach 30.5 billion and generate revenue of over US$ 59 billion. However, domestic tourists are expected to drive the growth, post-pandemic. As per the Ministry of Tourism, Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in October 2023 were 8,11,411,” he stated.

Mr. Yogesh Mudras concluded by stating, “FTAs during the period January-October 2023 were 72,43,680 as compared to 46,55,160 in January-October 2022. Over 100 countries have adopted sustainable tourism policies, showcasing a growing global commitment. The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) sets industry standards, certifying 2,500 destinations and businesses.”

On the founding day at Saudi Arabia today, Mr. Alhasan Ali Aldabbagh, President – Asia Pacific, Saudi Tourism Authority, extended his regards and addressed the gathering and conveyed his enthusiasm for the inaugural day of SATTE, noting its particular significance as Saudi Arabia commemorates its Founding Day today. He highlighted the crucial role of SATTE 2024 in bolstering ties with the Indian tourism market. He emphasized, “Aligned with our 2030 vision, we aim to attract over 7.5 million Indian travelers to Saudi Arabia, positioning it as our premier source market. To achieve this, we have streamlined various aspects of the journey, including visa applications, permits, hotel accommodations, and flight bookings, for Indian travelers.”

If 10 artists are doing well financially, only then the world looks at them: Artist Subodh Gupta at the ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0

Mumbai, 24th February 2024: The internationally acclaimed and celebrated Indian artist Subodh Gupta wowed the audience with a peek into his life and mind at the ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0 in Mumbai today.

Sharing his journey from humble beginnings to international success on the panel “Inside the Mind of a Genius: Memories of My Home,” he said, “I come from a humble family, and my family members worked for the railways. So I am a railway boy. But in my childhood, there was an impact of art. I joined theatre and made posters. And someone, after seeing my posters, encouraged me to join art college, and this is how the journey started.”

Talking about initial struggles and his breakthrough, he added, “When I started, nobody wanted to see my work. I participated in a workshop, and when I prepared an installation with cow dung, a Japanese consultant got in touch with me. I explained the cultural significance of cow dung in India and how it has been used for years. Later, they invited me to Japan to showcase my work, and I stayed there for one month. When I worked internationally, I was asked to display my exhibition in India as well.”

Subodh Gupta transforms mundane icons into artistic wonders. Known as the Damien Hirst of Delhi, he has brought to life an expansive range of artistic creations, including sculptures, paintings, installations, photography, video, and performance works. Talking about the significance of art, he said, “Art flows in our blood. When in the world there was no language, we used to speak in the language of art, and the example is cave painting. We have learned a lot about our development, history, and evolution through these cave paintings. Imagine if there was no art, whether we would be able to know about our history. So art has a very important impact and significance.”

Elaborating on the need to promote art and artists in India, he stressed, “In India, in the last 20 years, the numbers of art galleries have not increased much. Also, how many of us go to museums to see art? If 10 artists are doing well financially, then the world looks at them. But I know what artists go through to make their ends meet. We need to give scholarships to artists in India. Education is very important to nurture artists and to help them grow.”

The ABP Network’s ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0, spotlighting the ‘The People’s Agenda’, brought a confluence of ideas and ideators to a common platform celebrating the country’s people and its plurality. The two-day summit hosted policymakers, cultural ambassadors, industry experts, celebrities, business leaders, economists, and leading luminaries to delve into the fundamental ideas of liberty, justice, equality, and diversity that define India, its society, culture, and politics. The meaningful deliberations on diverse topics had the brightest minds across sectors providing insights about the nation’s trajectory and its journey to become Viksit Bharat.

Go Beyond Rejection: 5 Strategies for Converting Sales Objections

Go Beyond Rejection

By Gaurav Bhagat, Founder, The Gaurav Bhagat Academy

The art of effectively managing resistance in a dynamic sales environment is crucial for success, transforming a seemingly insurmountable “no” into a resounding “yes.” According to a recent Salesforce poll, 63% of sales professionals consider resistance to be the most challenging aspect of their job. These findings underscore the prevalence of resistance in sales and emphasize the urgent need for compelling strategies to overcome these barriers. In a world where about 80% of prospects say ‘no’ four times before finally saying ‘yes,’ handling objections is not just a skill but an indispensable art. As we delve deep into the intricacies of this art and explore some proven techniques and real-world data, let’s examine the psychology behind turning resistance into positive results in an ever-changing sales environment. At the Gaurav Bhagat Academy, we instill a deep understanding of resilience at our core, benefiting professionals, entrepreneurs, and students aspiring to become tomorrow’s business leaders.

1. Reframing objections as opportunities:
Despite 97% of salespeople perceiving objections negatively, it’s fair to acknowledge that 64% of objectors eventually become customers. To navigate objections effectively, view them as cues that spotlight customer needs. Engage in active listening and ask probing questions to address issues such as budget constraints or time limitations, turning constraints into opportunities for emphasis.

2. Mastering the art of active listening:
Improving your listening skills means genuinely paying attention rather than taking shortcuts. Research indicates that 72% of Indian consumers feel ignored during sales interactions. Utilize open-ended questions and discrete observations to uncover hidden concerns such as budget constraints or inventory issues. Respect and compassion are essential; restate their concerns to demonstrate commitment before adapting the solution to their needs.

3. Common objections and effective responses:
Adopt a recessionary approach. ICICI data shows that 84% of Indian consumers prefer data-backed conversations over price disputes. Emphasize ROI by demonstrating savings, productivity improvements, and revenue potential. Counter urgency doubts with competing developments. Utilize local case studies and straightforward language to emphasize the value of products. Tailor responses to Indian priorities.

4. The power of storytelling and social proof:
Bain’s research shows that 88% of Indian consumers prefer brands that share reviews. Shift from traditional storytelling to inspirational storytelling: Show how “Suresh from Jaipur” doubled profits or how “Rani from Chennai” simplified HR functions. Community endorsements and Hindi certifications build credibility, enabling customers to support you and overcome objections.

5. Maintaining a positive and professional approach:
A Harvard Business Review survey revealed that 86% of Indian consumers prefer services provided by organized and courteous sales professionals. Focus on relationship building rather than coercive tactics. Offer solutions warmly and respectfully even in the face of opposition. By 2023, a Deloitte study estimates that 68% of Indian consumers, fewer today, are likely to be loyal tomorrow. Offer options and build relationships through regular follow-up and support. In the Indian context, patience and genuine connection play important roles in turning rejection into acceptance.

Takeaways:
In sales, “no” is not the end but an opportunity to demonstrate objection handling skills. With empathetic, custom solutions, closed doors can become welcoming ones. Confidence in real Indian sales and relationships turns initial resistance into a resounding “yes”. Success depends on nurturing connections beyond contracts, understanding that sales plants lasting partnerships. Embrace objection management and sympathetic, tailored solutions. Listen carefully, be genuinely empathetic, and provide thoughtful responses. Maintain professionalism and a positive attitude, guiding conversations with respect and a smile. Remember that “no” is not an obstacle but an opportunity to build relationships. Embrace resistance management and witness initial hesitation turning into winning compromises.
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