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As 2024 wraps up, YouTube has unveiled its year-end trends, offering a window into the moments, creators, and events that captivated audiences across India. From cricketing showdowns to viral music tracks, the platform once again reflected the nation’s pulse, where billions of views transformed fleeting topics into lasting cultural highlights. The year’s biggest digital trends featured an eclectic mix of events and personalities. Dominating the conversation were global sporting spectacles like the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, the Indian Premier League, and the Paris 2024 Olympics. These events amassed billions of views, cementing cricket and sports as evergreen passions for Indian audiences. Cultural moments also had their share of the spotlight. The Ambani wedding, a topic of unmatched intrigue, garnered over 6.5 billion views on videos that included “Ambani” and “Wedding” in their titles. Meanwhile, phrases like “moye moye” became internet sensations, accumulating 4.5 billion views. Iconic figures like Diljit Dosanjh and Ratan Tata inspired millions, with Dosanjh’s name linked to videos generating nearly 4 billion views. YouTube’s end-of-year report also shed light on India’s top content creators, whose innovative storytelling captured audiences worldwide. While global powerhouse MrBeast led the charge with 332 million subscribers, homegrown creators like Filmy Suraj Actor (32.5M) and Sujal Thakral (33.5M) proved the power of local content. Others such as Cristiano, Box of Vengeance, and the Stokes Twins further added to the platform’s diverse creator ecosystem. Indian creators made waves on Shorts, with hyperlocal music in languages like Marathi and Garhwali crossing borders to reach global audiences. Priyal Kukreja championed women’s voices, while creators turned memes, cricket moments, and celebrity weddings into engaging, bite-sized stories that resonated deeply with fans. Music continued to play a pivotal role in shaping YouTube trends. Songs like “Kurchi Madathapetti” by Sahithi Chaganti and Sri Krishna, “Jale 2” by Shiva Chaudhary, and “Aaj Ki Raat” by Madhubanti Bagchi and Divya Kumar defined 2024’s soundtrack. On YouTube Shorts, hits such as “Dhana” by Priyanka Meher and Rongpaz and “Tauba Tauba” by Karan Aujla kept audiences grooving. These tracks not only became fan favourites but also helped drive the platform’s engagement, with users creating endless remixes, dance challenges, and covers that extended the lifespan of each hit. One of the most striking trends of 2024 was the rise of active fan participation. Viewers weren’t just consuming content—they were shaping it. From cricket memes and music edits to reactions to celebrity weddings, fans co-created content that amplified the original stories, making them even more impactful.

YouTube unveils year-end trends, here is what India watched in 2024

The <keyword id="19906063" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="ipl" source="keywords">IPL</keyword> mega auction 2024 kickstarted at 3 pm today at the Abady Al-Johar arena in Jeddha, Saudi Arabia. It will continue till tomorrow, and viewers can tune into Star Sports network on television and the JioCinema App. A total of 574 players were released by the respective franchise ahead of the mega auction. Of the 574 players, 366 are Indian, while 208 are overseas, including three from associate nations. The auction will see 318 Indian uncapped players and 12 uncapped overseas players in contention. There are 204 slots available, with 70 reserved for overseas players. The highest reserve price is set at Rs 2 crore, with 81 players opting for this bracket. The largest segment comprises players with a base price of Rs 30 lakh, totalling 320. The first set includes <keyword id="19904097" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="shreyas-iyer" source="keywords">Shreyas Iyer</keyword>, Rishabh Pant, and Arshdeep Singh, while the second features KL Rahul, <keyword id="20038368" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="yuzvendra-chahal" source="keywords">Yuzvendra Chahal</keyword>, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj. The overseas marquee players are Mitchell <keyword id="19928915" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="starc" source="keywords">Starc</keyword>, Jos Buttler, Liam Livingstone, David Miller, and Kagiso Rabada. Several teams will deploy Right-to-Match (RTM) cards during the auction. The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Rajasthan Royals (RR), having retained six players each--the maximum allowed--will not have any RTM cards. Punjab Kings (PBKS) hold four RTMs, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) three, and Delhi Capitals (DC) two. Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Gujarat Titans (GT), Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), and Mumbai Indians (MI) each have one RTM. RTM cards enable teams to buy back released players by matching the highest bid. In this auction, the team with the highest bid can increase their offer once more, after which the team holding the RTM card can match the final bid to secure the player. The IPL 2025 Mega Auction promises to deliver high-stakes action, with marquee players and strategic manoeuvres set to enthral cricket fans. A total of 12 marquee players, including Indian stars like Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul have created a lot of buzz within the cricket fraternity. A total of 574 players have been shortlisted from an initial pool of 1,574 names. These players will go under the hammer from November 24-25 in Jeddah. The list includes 208 overseas players, 12 uncapped overseas talents, and 318 uncapped Indian players, according to Wisden. Here is a look at all the marquee players who will be going under the hammer: Jos Buttler (England) Buttler is one of finest white-ball batters of this generation, with 11,929 runs, eight centuries and 83 fifties to his name in 427 T20s. A T20 World Cup-winning captain for England, Buttler made a name for himself in the IPL during his stint with Rajasthan Royals (RR) from 2018 to 2024. For RR since 2018, Buttler scored 3,055 runs at an average of 41.84 and a strike rate of 147.79, with 7 centuries and 18 fifties. His best score was 124. He is the team's third-highest run-getter of all time. The IPL 2022, in which RR finished as runners-up, was the zenith of Buttler's career, as he ended up on the top of run-scoring charts, with 863 runs in 17 matches at an average of 57.53 and a strike rate of over 149, with four centuries and four fifties. His best score was 116. In the last season, Buttler scored 359 runs in 11 matches at an average of 39.88, with two centuries. Buttler also represented Mumbai Indians (MI) from 2016-17, scoring 527 runs in 24 matches with one half-century. He won the title with them in 2017. Shreyas Iyer (<keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="india" source="keywords">India</keyword>) Iyer has played all formats for India, proving his mettle mostly in ODI cricket, where he averages 47 and has scored five centuries and 18 fifties in 57 ODIs. In 51 T20Is for India, Iyer has scored 1,104 runs at an average of 30.66 and a strike rate of over 136, with eight half-centuries and best score of 74*. During his time with Delhi Capitals (2015-21), he earned a reputation as a fierce young leader, taking DC to finals in 2021. After joining Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2022, Iyer went one step further and won the franchise its third IPL title, its first in 10 years, this year. Throughout the season, Iyer along with mentor Gautam Gambhir, led the team's aggressive, high-scoring brand of cricket from the front. In his IPL career, Iyer has scored 2,375 runs at an average of 31.67, with a strike rate of 123.96 and 16 half-centuries. His best score is 96. In his last season for KKR, he scored 351 runs in 15 matches at an average of 39.00 and a strike rate of over 146, making two fifties. Rishabh Pant (India) The swashbuckling wicketkeeper-batter is an all-format for India and a livewire on the field. Having proven himself as a man for big stages in Test cricket, Pant's T20 game is just as solid. Though he has scored 1,209 runs in 76 T20Is at an underwhelming average of 23.25, strike rate of almost 128 and just three fifties, his overall T20 numbers are way better, having made 5,022 runs in 202 matches at an average of 31.78, strike rate of over 145, with two centuries and 25 fifties. Pant has represented Delhi Capitals (DC) for his entire IPL career since 2016, scoring 3,284 runs in 110 matches at an average of 35.31, with a century and 18 fifties. He was appointed as the team's captain in 2021 and led them to playoffs in the same season. During this last season, which marked his return from competitive cricket after a serious road accident in 2022-end, Pant scored 446 runs in 13 matches at an average of 40.54 and a strike rate of 155.40, with three fifties and best score of 88*. He was the leading run-scorer for DC. Kagiso Rabada (South Africa) The South African pacer is among the best in the world, having taken 71 wickets in 65 T20Is. He is the part of the SA team which reached the T20 World Cup finals this year and took 13 wickets in nine matches. Rabada has played T20 leagues and competitions worldwide and taken 264 scalps in 211 matches. In the IPL, Rabada has represented Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings, having taken 117 wickets in 80 matches. With PBKS from 2022-2024, he took 41 wickets in 30 matches while with DC from 2017-2021, he took 76 wickets in 50 matches. In 11 matches last season for Punjab Kings, he took 11 wickets at an average of 33.81. Arshdeep Singh (India) A brilliant left-arm pacer for his swing and wicket-taking abilities, Arshdeep has represented India in 59 T20Is and has already taken 92 wickets at an average of 18.47, making him the most successful pacer for India in T20Is and their second-highest wicket-taker of all-time despite debuting only in 2022. The youngster was a crucial part of India's T20 WC winning squad this year and was the joint-highest wicket-taker in the tournament with 17 wickets in eight matches at an average of 12.47. Since 2019, the year of his IPL debut, Arshdeep has represented the Punjab Kings in 65 matches, taking 76 wickets at an average of 27.00 and best figures of 5/32. The season this year was his strongest-ever showing, taking 19 wickets in 14 matches at an average of 26.58. Mitchell Starc (Australia) A multi-time world champion with Australia across all formats, Starc is considered as one of the deadliest pacers of this era, having taken 681 wickets in 281 matches. In 65 T20Is for Australia, he has taken 79 wickets at an average of 23.81. in 142 T20Is played worldwide, he has taken 193 wickets at an average of 20.59 and best figures of 4/15. After two seasons with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) from 2014-15, Starc made his IPL return this year as the most expensive player ever, brought by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for Rs 24.75 crores. Though he delivered mixed returns during the league stage, the 'Big Match Starc' came into play during playoffs, delivering outstanding spells of 3/34 and 2/14 against <keyword id="19959099" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sunrisers-hyderabad" source="keywords">Sunrisers Hyderabad</keyword> (SRH) in the Qualifier 1 and final. He ended the season with 17 wickets in 14 matches at an average of 26.12 including a four-wicket haul. So far in his IPL career, Starc has taken 51 wickets in 41 matches. Yuzvendra Chahal (India) The Indian spin veteran is the chart-topping bowler, owning the most wickets by an Indian in T20is and by any bowler in the IPL. In the IPL, Chahal has taken 205 wickets in 160 matches at an average of 22.44, with best figures of 5/40. In 80 T20Is he has taken 96 wickets at an average of 25.09 with best figures of 6/25. Also in all of T20s, he has taken 354 wickets in 305 matches, the most by an Indian bowler. Chahal remains the leading wicket-taker for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), even after departing in 2021 following a tenure that began in 2014. In 113 matches for RCB, he took 139 wickets at an average of 22.03, with a best of 4/25. Since joining Rajasthan Royals (RR) in 2022, Chahal has helped the team reach the playoffs twice in three seasons. He is also the leading wicket-taker in IPL history, amassing 205 wickets in 160 matches at an average of 22.44, with a best of 5/44. He won the Purple Cap in 2022, his debut season with RR, securing 27 wickets in 17 matches at an average of 19.51, with best figures of 5/40. During the 2024 season, he took 18 wickets in 15 matches at an average of 30.33. Liam Livingstone (England) A T20 World Cup-winning all-rounder, Liam has scored 877 runs in 53 T20Is at an average of 27.40 and a strike rate of almost 152, with a century and two fifties. With his useful right-arm spin, he has taken 32 wickets at an average of over 23, with best figures of 3/17. He owns the record for fastest T20I ton by an England player, in just 42 balls. The batting all-rounder has played for Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) since his tournament debut in 2019, scoring 939 runs in 39 matches at a strike rate of 162.46 and six fifties. He has also taken 11 wickets. His best has come with Punjab, who signed him for Rs 11.5 crores ahead of the 2022 season, which proved to be his breakthrough, scoring 437 runs in 14 matches with four fifties and a strike rate of 182.08 and getting six wickets in 14 matches. In the last season, Livingstone scored 111 runs in seven matches at an average of 22.20, striking at over 142 and having the best score of 38*. David Miller (South Africa) An elite T20 finisher, Miller is considered as one of the modern white-ball greats for South Africa. In 128 matches for Proteas, he has made 2,473 runs at an average of 32.54, striking at almost 140, with two centuries and seven fifties. In the IPL, Miller is known for his stints with Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals and Gujarat Titans. His stint with Punjab from 2012-19 made him a valuable IPL commodity, as he enjoyed his peak years from 2013-15, reaching the finals in 2014. After a few years' of underwhelming performances and being benched, GT placed trust in his finishing abilities and he repaid the faith with a 481-run season in 16 matches with two fifties, playing a crucial role in the team's title win in his debut season. Miller is also known for his fine performances in knockout games. In 41 matches for GT, he has scored 950 runs at an average of 45.24, with three fifties in 38 innings and a strike rate of 145.26. In the last season, he scored 210 runs at an average of 35.00 and a strike rate of over 151, with a half-century. KL Rahul (India) A versatile batter for India across all formats. He can open, bat in middle-order, anchor and accelerate. A highly capable wicketkeeper-batter as well. He is India's fourth-highest run-getter in T20Is, scoring 2,265 runs in 72 matches at an average of 37.75, striking at almost 140 with two centuries and 22 fifties to his name. In 132 IPL matches since his debut in 2013, KL has played for Sunrisers Hyderabad, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants, even going on to captain the latter two teams. In 132 matches, he has scored 4,683 runs at an average of 45.47 and a strike rate of 134.61, with four centuries and 37 fifties. For LSG since 2022, he has scored 1,410 runs at an average of 41.47, with a strike rate of 130.68, two centuries and 10 fifties. He has never won an IPL title. In 14 matches last season, he scored 520 runs at an average of 37.14 and a strike rate of 136.12 and four half-centuries. His best score was 82 and he ended up as seventh-highest run-getter in the season. Mohammed Shami (India) The Indian pace veteran has represented India in all formats, having taken 448 wickets in 188 matches. His finest hour in an Indian jersey came during the 50-over World Cup at home last year, where he emerged as the leading-wicket-taker with 24 wickets in just seven matches and played a crucial role in India's runners-up finish. In IPL, Shami has played for Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders and Gujarat Titans. He has taken 127 wickets in 110 matches at an average of 26.86. Shami was the Purple Cap holder for most wickets in GT's 2023 runners-up season and has taken 48 wickets in 33 matches at an average of 21.04 for the team. This also remains his last IPL season as he missed the previous season due to an ankle injury. Mohammed Siraj (India) Siraj is a solid all-format pacer for India, having taken 165 wickets across 91 matches, with a lot of match-winning performances in overseas Tests. He is the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 winner with the team. In his IPL career, he has played for Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) from his debut in 2017, taking 93 wickets in 93 matches at an average of 30.34. Since 2018, he has been a vital part of RCB's pace attack, having taken 83 wickets in 87 matches at an average of 31.45 and best figures of 4/21. In the last season this year, he took 15 wickets in 14 matches at an average of 33.07, playing a crucial role in the team's inspirational playoffs qualification. (ANI) A total of 1,574 players will go under the hammer in the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on Sunday and Monday which includes 1,165 Indian players and 409 overseas players, all competing for a place in the world's premier T20 league. The comprehensive list of registered players features 320 capped players, 1,224 uncapped players, and 30 players from Associate Nations. Specifically, the breakdown includes 48 capped Indian players, 272 capped international players, 152 uncapped Indian players who previously played in IPL seasons, 3 uncapped international players with prior IPL experience, 965 uncapped Indian players, and 104 uncapped international players. Among the 409 overseas players, Australia leads with 76 registrations, followed by South Africa with 91, and England with 52. Other notable countries include New Zealand with 39, West Indies with 33, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka with 29 each, and the USA with 10 players. Players from Bangladesh (13), Ireland (9), Canada (4), Netherlands (12), Zimbabwe (8), Scotland (2), UAE (1), and Italy (1) have also registered. With each of the ten IPL franchises able to fill a maximum squad of 25 players, 204 slots will be available at the IPL 2025 player auction. The event promises to be highly competitive as teams build their rosters for the next three years.

IPL 2025: What can you expect from the mega auction at Jeddah in Saudi Arabia?

<keyword id="20448705" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Waymo" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Waymo" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Waymo">Waymo</keyword>, the self-driving car whiz kid from Alphabet (aka Google’s big parent company), just made a splash by launching its robotaxis in Los Angeles! This means that anyone with the Waymo One app can now call up a driverless cab across a whopping 129-square-kilometre stretch of the city. It’s like having a robot chauffeur — without the awkward small talk! This isn’t Waymo’s first rodeo with robotaxis. They’ve been rolling around Phoenix since 2020 and then hit up San Francisco last year. In Los Angeles, after a short trial for some lucky early testers, Waymo opened up rides to the public. Now anyone can zip around L.A. traffic in style, with the car’s AI brain in control. Waymo’s journey started as a secret project back in 2009 and has come a long way since then. The company’s <keyword id="19967698" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="self-driving-cars" source="keywords">self-driving cars</keyword> have logged over 20 million miles without any major accidents — a record that certainly leaves human drivers in the dust. Meanwhile, Waymo’s competitor, Cruise (owned by General Motors), ran into some trouble when one of its <keyword id="21485769" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="driverless-cars" source="keywords">driverless cars</keyword> was involved in an accident with a pedestrian, resulting in a license suspension in California. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="107634470" title="A crowd set fire to a Waymo taxi in San Francisco, as tensions about driverless tech grow" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>But Waymo’s big moves in the US raise an interesting question: what would happen if robotaxis rolled out in a place like India? The impact could be massive! India has millions of taxi drivers, and many rely on their daily fares to support their families. Not only is the work gruelling, such “gig workers” often earn shockingly less, and at increasingly shrinking profit margins. One source even noted earning only around Rs 30,000 a month while working as an Ola captain from Bengaluru. Thus, a widespread shift to driverless cars could be a serious blow to their livelihoods, especially in a country struggling with rampant levels of inflation. Therefore, there exists an issue of livelihoods on one hand and technological progress on the other, so if companies like Waymo ever bring robotaxis to India, it could shake things up in a big way. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="102751416" title="Sex in self-driving cars: Passengers are reportedly hooking up in San Francisco&amp;#39;s driverless taxis" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>However, on the other side of the spectrum, there are undoubtedly some benefits to moving towards a fully-automated robotaxi fleet. For instance, road accidents cause over 1,50,000 deaths annually in India. Autonomous vehicles,which are designed to follow traffic rules strictly and reduce human error, could help lower these numbers. Additionally, driverless taxis could make transportation more accessible and affordable, especially in densely populated cities with high demand. Furthermore, such robotaxis would also provide a solution for passengers who experience language barriers or inconsistent service quality, as these vehicles are designed for efficient, standardised rides. There is also the hope that they could reduce traffic congestion and pollution with AI-driven routes that minimise idle time and fuel use. Waymo may be rejoicing in the spotlight at the moment, but there are several other companies in the robotaxi race, including Tesla, which has its “Cybercab” in the works, and Amazon’s Zoox, aiming to hit the streets of Las Vegas next year. Baidu’s Apollo is already making robotaxi runs in some Chinese cities, but each company faces its own unique set of challenges. In India, where roads are a blend of honking scooters, zig-zagging rickshaws, and plenty of cows on the streets, introducing robotaxis would require some serious tech tricks and regulatory green lights. Until then, L.A. can enjoy the driverless rides while the rest of us wait to see how this wild technology shapes the future.

No Driver? No Problem! Waymo’s driverless robotaxis make Los Angeles debut — but what could the tech mean for India?

Star India is set to produce a new web series spotlighting the <keyword id="19899810" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Reserve-Bank-of-India" source="keywords">Reserve Bank of India</keyword> (<keyword id="19899808" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="rbi" source="keywords">RBI</keyword>) and its critical role in shaping India’s economy over the past 90 years. The RBI, established in 1935, celebrated its 90th anniversary this April, and the upcoming series will aim to deepen public understanding of the central bank’s operations and achievements. Several prominent media companies — Star India Private Limited, Viacom 18, Zee Entertainment Network Limited, and Discovery Communications India — competed for the project. Following a request for proposal (RFP) by the RBI in July, Star India secured the contract, valued at Rs 6.5 crore, after progressing through final evaluations alongside Viacom 18. The RBI's vision for the series, as outlined in the RFP, includes five episodes of about 25-30 minutes each. This format will allow for an engaging, in-depth look into the RBI’s journey, from its establishment in pre-independence India to its modern-day functions. The episodes will delve into the RBI's mission and vision, major achievements, and ongoing developments, aiming to make the central bank’s functions more relatable and accessible to the general public. With expert interviews, high-quality visuals, and storytelling, the series is designed to demystify complex financial topics for a broad audience. By presenting the RBI's key initiatives, collaborations, and challenges in an engaging way, Star India hopes to foster greater transparency and trust in the central bank. The series will be available on both national television and OTT platforms, expanding its reach and impact. The RBI views this web series as a valuable tool to promote financial literacy. By making the central bank's work understandable and interesting, the series could serve as a bridge between the RBI and the public, contributing to a more financially aware society. (With inputs from agencies)

Curious to know what the Reserve Bank does? Star India will soon produce a web series narrating the RBI's 90-year journey

Earlier this week, former US President Donald Trump revealed that Indian Prime Minister <keyword id="19895781" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="narendra-modi" source="keywords">Narendra Modi</keyword> is scheduled to meet with him next week. This potential gathering, set against the backdrop of Trump’s bid for a return to the White House, highlights how global leaders are positioning themselves in anticipation of possible changes in US leadership. “He happens to be coming to meet me next week, and Modi, he’s fantastic,” Trump said on Tuesday during a town hall event in Flint, Michigan, while discussing free trade and US job protection. He even went on to call India a “very big abuser” in trade, Al Jazeera reported. Most likely, Prime Minister Narendra Modi meeting up with Trump could be an acknowledgment of the latter's potential return to power in the November election, as foreign leaders carefully navigate diplomatic relations with key US political figures. However, neither the Trump campaign nor India’s Ministry of External Affairs have clearly commented on the matter yet, meaning that the Indian leader’s plans of a tête-à-tête with ex US President Trump are foggy at best. During a press conference, foreign secretary <keyword id="20181706" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="vikram-misri" source="keywords">Vikram Misri</keyword> said, "there are many meetings with the Prime Minister right now which we are trying to fix. Right now, I will not be able to tell you about any specific meeting, whether the meeting has been fixed or not." "We are looking from all angles as to how much time we have and with whom we can hold meetings. We will keep updating you about the meetings," he added. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113444882" title="Trump says PM Modi will meet him during US visit, calls him &amp;#39;fantastic&amp;#39;" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>What we do know with certainty is that Mr Modi is indeed scheduled to travel to the US over the weekend and his calendar is going to be jam-packed. His visit coincides with his planned participation at the <keyword id="23145156" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Quad-Leaders-Summit" source="keywords">Quad Leaders Summit</keyword> (including representatives from Australia, India, Japan and the US) in Wilmington, Delaware, hosted by President Joe Biden. As per a White House official, the meet-up will feature "ambitious announcements in multiple areas such as maritime security, high-quality infrastructure and critical and emerging technologies to demonstrate the group’s endurance". Prime Minister Modi will have bilateral meetings with President Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday, following the conclusion of the Quad Summit. A special event, the Cancer Moonshot initiative, is also scheduled on the sidelines of the summit. In his meeting with President Biden, India and the US are anticipated to sign several agreements, including those related to the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework and a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on drug frameworks. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that Modi and Biden will review the comprehensive global strategic partnership between India and the US, which spans over 50 areas of engagement and bilateral dialogue mechanisms. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="113085171" title="India is likely to benefit if Trump wins US elections, per Nomura Global Research" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>Both leaders will also assess progress in areas of cooperation, though tensions remain due to the alleged assassination plot involving Khalistani leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The investigation is ongoing, and India has formed a committee to examine the accusations. This visit may serve to ease some of the friction in the relationship. Defence cooperation remains a key area of collaboration between India and the U.S., including agreements on the procurement of 31 MQ-9B Predator drones, joint manufacturing of Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicles, and co-production of GE F414 engines in India. The Ukraine conflict is also expected to be a topic of discussion. Prime Minister Modi is supposed to attend the "Modi &amp; US" community event at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Long Island. The event, already overbooked with more than 24,000 Indian Americans registered for a venue with a capacity of 15,000, has attracted attendees from 42 states, especially the tri-state area. Additionally, PM Modi will allegedly lead a roundtable with CEOs of American companies working in fields like AI, quantum computing, biotechnology, and cutting-edge technology. Lastly, on September 23, Modi will address global leaders at the United Nations' Summit of the Future (SOTF) and is expected to hold bilateral meetings with other heads of state attending the UN General Assembly. Obviously, squeezing in a meeting with Trump and Democrat Candidate Kamala Harris (you know, to balance things out) seems unlikely given Mr Modi’s tight schedule. But we’ll have a clearer picture only in the coming days. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111770277" title="PM Modi likely to address high-level UNGA session on Sep 26" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>

Why is Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the US this weekend?

<keyword id="20981018" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="pickleball" source="keywords">Pickleball</keyword>, once a niche <keyword id="20413546" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sport" source="keywords">sport</keyword> abroad, is now quickly capturing attention across urban centres in India, where it’s seen as a fresh alternative to traditional sports. From Bollywood stars to sports icons, this fun and fast-paced game is attracting enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. But…what is it and where did it come from? If you’ve been seeing people playing what looks like tennis but with a racket that looks more like a fly swatter and have been absolutely dumbfounded by it, you’re in the right place. A combination of tennis, badminton and ping-pong, pickleball paddle uses a paddle and plastic ball with holes. This hybrid sport is played on a smaller court with paddles and a perforated plastic ball. Since its inception in the 1960s, pickleball has transformed from a backyard game to a full-fledged competitive sport, attracting players of all ages and skill levels! <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="104593593" title="&amp;#39;The Golden Bachelor&amp;#39; Gerry Turner loves pickleball. A doctor shares tips to avoid injuries while playing." mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div> <h2>The rise of <keyword id="20642016" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="pickleball-in-India" source="Orion">pickleball in India</keyword> </h2>Introduced to India in 2007 by Sunil Valavalkar, pickleball started modestly but has grown significantly in the past decade, thanks in large part to the efforts of the <keyword id="21600609" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="All-India-Pickleball-Association" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="All India Pickleball Association" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="All India Pickleball Association">All India Pickleball Association</keyword> (AIPA). The sport is currently played across 23 states and boasts a player base of over 10,000. The game’s expansion is fueled by initiatives such as national tournaments, coaching clinics, and collaborations with international pickleball organisations. India's sports minister, Anurag Thakur, has also been instrumental in promoting pickleball, adding a layer of governmental support that is critical for its mainstream acceptance. The sport’s potential to foster inclusivity, given its appeal across age groups and genders, makes it particularly attractive in India. With new dedicated courts being built across cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and prestigious clubs now offering pickleball, the sport is on the path to becoming a staple recreational activity in urban India. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="105704740" title="A pickleball star offers tips for improving your game. The 22-year-old pro athlete says the sport isn&amp;#39;t just for old people." mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div> <h2>Simplicity and accessibility </h2>One of the main reasons pickleball is catching on in India is its simplicity. The sport is easy to learn, requiring just a small court, paddles, and a perforated plastic ball. This makes it particularly attractive in crowded urban areas like Mumbai and Bengaluru, where space is often limited. Unlike tennis or badminton, which may need specialised courts and equipment, pickleball can be played in community parks or even modified badminton courts, making it an accessible choice for all. <h2>Celebrity endorsements</h2>The growing popularity of pickleball in India has been boosted by celebrity endorsements. One of the sport’s notable supporters is popular actress <keyword id="19995770" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Samantha-Ruth-Prabhu" source="keywords">Samantha Ruth Prabhu</keyword>. Known for her successful career in the South Indian film industry, Samantha recently became the owner of Team Chennai in the <keyword id="21590997" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="World-Pickleball-League" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="World Pickleball League" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="World Pickleball League">World Pickleball League</keyword>, and she shared a heartfelt post about what this opportunity means to her. Globally, <keyword id="19957993" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Novak-Djokovic" source="keywords">Novak Djokovic</keyword>, the tennis legend, has also been linked to pickleball. While Djokovic is known for his dominance on the tennis court, the Olympics gold medalist is all set to be seen on the pickleball court in a first! <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="104833435" title="Matthew Perry spent his final hours playing in a pickleball match before he was found dead at his LA home: coach" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div> <h2>Health benefits and community building </h2>Pickleball offers numerous health benefits, especially as a low-impact sport. It appeals to people looking for a fun, accessible way to stay active without the intense physical demands of sports like tennis or squash. Additionally, the sport’s emphasis on doubles play fosters a strong sense of community and social engagement, which resonates with Indian culture’s collective approach to recreation. In India, even national-level tournaments are becoming more common, drawing participants from various age groups and demographics. As the sport continues to grow, it is clear that pickleball has found its place in India’s evolving sports culture. With more people picking up paddles and entering courts, the future of pickleball in India looks bright, and its rise shows no signs of slowing down. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="109666082" title="How a stay-at-home dad turned his passion for pickleball into &amp;#39;a game changer&amp;#39; side hustle" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>

What is pickleball — the new-ish sport trending among celebrities like Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Novak Djokovic?

Starting November 11, 2024, your shares will be directly credited to your demat account after you've executed a trade. This will significantly reduce the role of your stockbrokers like Zerodha, Groww, Angel One, and more. Earlier, this rule was set to take effect yesterday i.e. October 14, 2024. The timelines were pushed to November 11 post multiple representations from Broker's Forum. Even the payout time has been shifted from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm, in order to ensure credit to client's accounts the very same day. So, what does this change entail for you? We take a look. <h2>What was the situation before? </h2>Say you placed an order to buy 1,000 shares of company A through your stockbroker online today i.e. on Monday. The This will be your trade day, or T-day. The total transaction is worth Rs 1,00,000 (1,000 shares of Rs 100 each), plus Rs 120 worth of STT, brokerage charges and more, which brings the total to Rs 1,00,120. First, your broker will ascertain whether or not you have this amount, or sufficient funds in your account for the trade to go through. Once that is verified, your broker will block this amount in your account and send you a contract note. This note details the day's transactions, along with the charges levied by the broker. Since Indian markets operate on a T-day+1 settlement basis, here's what will happen with your order on T+1 day i.e. Tuesday: 1. The shares will be credited to your broker's pool account (Zerodha in this case) by the clearing corporation (CC). Also, the shares will start reflecting in your demat account the very same day. 2. The funds, which had been blocked in your account, will be debited from your broker's pool account, and will be credited to the selling broker's pool account. Before today, the CC first transferred the <keyword id="20148181" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="securities" source="keywords">securities</keyword> into your broker's pool account, who then credited them to your account. The shares remained in the custody and control of your broker, before they finally transferred the same to your account. <h2>What's changing?</h2>From November 11, 2024, the CC will directly credit the securities to your demat account, eliminating the role of the broker as a necessary intermediary. In short, the brokers will have no touchpoint with your shares. This change will be implemented in 2 phases: Phase 1, which was set to start on October 14, will enable <keyword id="23504881" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="direct-credit" source="keywords">direct credit</keyword> of securities for equity cash segments, where big financial organizations or brokers undertake trades on behalf of their individual or institutional investors. This will also be applicable for physical settlements of futures and options. This means that on the date of their expiry, the actual delivery of stocks/commodities must be made to your demat account. This will continue till January 13, 2025. However, in certain cases, like short delivery (when sellers do not deliver shares), rejected payouts, inactive buyer accounts and more, the securities will still be first credited to the broker's pool accounts. Phase 2, which will begin from January 14, 2025, will extend this system to all security transactions, including even for SLB (securities lending and borrowing), where investors can lend or borrow securities from other participants in the market. The role of brokers will be largely be minimised. This will also change how pledges, or loan against securities are created. Currently, brokers are tasked with the job of creating pledges for unpaid securities, and marking them in the client's demat account. But post this change, brokers will request CCs to mark this in the client's demat account. <h2>Is there anything I need to do? </h2>No, this is not set to impact your i.e. the investor's experience in any way. If anything, it will make the entire share credit process smoother, more direct and secure.

Attention! Here's what is changing with your shares, starting November 11,2024

In a major <keyword id="22639726" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="diplomatic-breakthrough" source="keywords">diplomatic breakthrough</keyword>, India and China have struck an agreement to defuse tensions along the <keyword id="20140251" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Line-of-Actual-Control" source="keywords">Line of Actual Control</keyword> (LAC), which have been ongoing since the deadly clashes in the Galwan Valley in 2020. The deal, announced just days before the <keyword id="21003379" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BRICS-summit" source="keywords">BRICS summit</keyword>, marks the first concrete step towards restoring peace between the two nations since the conflict began. It includes a structured patrolling plan and <keyword id="23643398" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="troop-withdrawals" source="keywords">troop withdrawals</keyword> aimed at preventing future confrontations in the <keyword id="20224053" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ladakh-region" source="keywords">Ladakh region</keyword>. Indian Foreign Minister <keyword id="20508657" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="S-Jaishankar" source="keywords">S. Jaishankar</keyword> described the agreement as a return to pre-2020 conditions, effectively resetting the status quo along the contested border. Troops from both sides will be pulled back to avoid face-offs, while joint patrols will be carried out according to a mutually agreed schedule. This is a notable shift from the tense, militarised standoff that has gripped the LAC over the past four years, where tens of thousands of soldiers were stationed in extreme high-altitude conditions. A key feature of the agreement is the creation of a regular monitoring system to ensure compliance. Monthly review meetings will be held to track progress, signalling a long-term commitment to peace. This structured approach, involving both military and diplomatic channels, could lay the foundation for more robust confidence-building measures. The pact also carries significant economic implications. While India had increased scrutiny of Chinese investments post-2020, bilateral trade has continued to rise, with Indian imports from China surging 56% in recent years. Experts see this agreement as a crucial step toward normalising broader diplomatic and economic ties, potentially allowing stalled business projects to resume. Despite the optimism, challenges remain. Experts caution that this is just the first step in what will be a long road to lasting peace. As former Indian military commander Deependra Singh Hooda noted, “At least the impasse has been broken,” but further confidence-building measures will be critical. The resolution of this border dispute could pave the way for deeper cooperation between the two nations, especially in a global context where both India and China are key players in shaping regional stability. For now, the world watches to see how this agreement will unfold in the months to come.

India and China just reached a landmark agreement to de-escalate border tensions! Here's what happens now

Congress MP <keyword id="19916336" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="shashi-tharoor" source="keywords">Shashi Tharoor</keyword> emphasised <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="india" source="keywords">India</keyword>'s importance as a global economic and political power during a conversation here at Rice University's Baker Institute. "<keyword id="23108209" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="india-matters" source="Orion">India matters</keyword>," <keyword id="20304436" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tharoor" source="keywords">Tharoor</keyword> said, stressing that "what happens in India affects a sixth of humanity". The Thiruvananthapuram Member of Parliament explained that India, now the third-largest economy in purchasing power parity, can no longer be ignored or underestimated on the world stage. Delivering a compelling talk on India's <keyword id="4090360" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="global-influence" source="Orion">global influence</keyword>, moderated by <keyword id="23107140" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="david-satterfield" source="keywords">David Satterfield</keyword>, the institute's director and former US ambassador to Lebanon and Turkiye, Tharoor highlighted how India's rise as the world's most populous nation and fastest-growing major economy positions it as a significant player in world affairs. Tharoor, who was visiting Houston as a prominent author and speaker at the seventh edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival from September 6-8, also addressed the geopolitical challenges faced by India, particularly its relations with China, Pakistan, and the US. He noted India's delicate balancing act in these complex relationships while asserting the country's growing role in shaping the future of the region. The discussion explored India's technological advancements, with Satterfield noting the country's rapid growth in this sector. Tharoor acknowledged the increasing influence of India's tech industry, which is driving innovation and economic development, making the country a key player in global trade. Domestic issues were also a key focus of the conversation, with Tharoor touching on India's energy challenges and its ambitious goals for renewable energy. He also spoke about the country's infrastructure development needs, acknowledging the gaps while expressing optimism about future improvements. Tharoor further discussed the rise of Hindu nationalism and its impact on India's social and political landscape, noting that it poses new challenges to the country's long-standing democratic fabric. Tharoor's talk emphasised India's growing importance in global politics, economics, and technology, painting a picture of a nation whose decisions resonate far beyond its borders. "India is a key player on the world stage," he concluded, "and the choices it makes today will have a lasting impact on the world." Tharoor's insights underscored the growing importance of India on the world stage, leaving the packed hall with over 300 people from all walks of life with a deeper understanding of the country's dynamic role in global politics, economics, and diplomacy.

"What happens in India affects a sixth of humanity": Shashi Tharoor highlights India's growing global influence

<ul><li>The <keyword id="8194701" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="refurbished-smartphone" source="Orion">refurbished smartphone</keyword> market has recorded rapid growth in India.</li><li>While the unorganised sellers dominate the market, the organised sellers are also growing.</li><li>Affordability and shorter upgrade cycles are among the factors fueling the refurbished smartphone market.</li></ul> India's refurbished smartphone market is experiencing significant growth, outpacing the new smartphone sector. This reflects a maturing market which is increasingly catering to consumers looking for affordable yet reliable options. According to a report by Counterpoint Research, unorganised sellers dominate the refurbished smartphone market, accounting for 77% of transactions. The Indian refurbished smartphone sector has traditionally been dominated by unorganised players, offering devices at a fraction of the cost of the new models. However, the introduction of value-added services like warranties, quality assurance, and after-sales support by emerging e-commerce platforms is beginning to formalise this market, enhancing consumer trust and driving further growth. <h2>What’s fueling the refurbished smartphone market</h2><h3>Affordability</h3><keyword id="2698558" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="refurbished-smartphones" source="Orion">Refurbished smartphones</keyword> offer consumers access to higher-end hardware at lower costs, making premium technology more accessible to a broader audience. This aspect is particularly appealing in a price-sensitive market like India. <h3>Shorter upgrade cycles</h3>With technology evolving rapidly, many users prefer to upgrade their phones more frequently. Refurbished devices provide an avenue for this without the high cost associated with new purchases. <h3>Environmental impact</h3>There's a growing awareness of the environmental benefits of using refurbished products, which reduces electronic waste and the demand for new manufacturing, which is resource-intensive. <h3>Consumer confidence</h3>The entry of organised players who provide guarantees and quality checks on refurbished devices has significantly boosted consumer confidence. These services add a layer of reliability to what was once a market fraught with uncertainty about product condition and longevity. Despite the growth in the unorganised sector, there's a noticeable trend towards formalisation. E-commerce platforms specialising in refurbished goods are expanding, providing consumers with the convenience of online shopping backed by credible service commitments. The report also notes that this growth is not just contained within India. Globally, the refurbished smartphone market is on an upward trajectory, with similar trends observed in markets like Latin America, suggesting a broader international shift towards sustainable consumption in electronics. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/moto-g35-5g-with-120hz-5000mah-battery-launched-at-9999/articleshow/116172283.cms">Moto G35 5G with 120Hz display, 5,000mAh battery launched at ₹9,999</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/redmi-note-14-pro-and-redmi-note-14-pro-launched-in-india-starting-at-24999/articleshow/116134415.cms">Redmi Note 14 Pro and Redmi Note 14 Pro+ launched in India starting at ₹24,999</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/vivo-x200-and-x200-pro-camera-centric-to-launch-in-india-on-december-12/articleshow/115930004.cms">Vivo X200 and X200 Pro camera-centric smartphones to launch in India on December 12</a>

India's refurbished smartphone market witnesses accelerated growth

The <keyword id="6354872" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="economic-survey" source="Orion">Economic Survey</keyword>, which was tabled earlier today by Finance Minister <keyword id="129243" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="nirmala-sitharaman" source="Orion">Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> estimated that in 2022-23, India's total workforce stood at nearly 56.5 crore. However, as data from the recent Periodic Labor Force Survey (PLFS) notes, their distribution is highly skewed, with over 45% of them engaged in agriculture, followed by 28.9% in services, 13% in construction, and 11.4% in manufacturing. At the same time, while the agriculture sector has grown at about 4.18% at constant prices over the last 5 years, India's service sector is estimated to have grown by around 7.6% in just the last financial year, as provisional estimates suggest. As such, the continued dominance of the agriculture sector as an employer, particularly when it comes to women, is concerning, especially as India's service sector, which contributes about 55% to the total size of economy, demands increasingly more workers, who possess specific, focused skill sets (think blockchain, AI, machine learning, 3D printing, web development and more). <h2>Encouraging trends</h2>The unemployment rate amongst youth, or those aged between 15-29 has come down sharply to 10% in 2022-23, from 17.8% in 2017-18. Nearly 75% of all new subscribers on EPFO payroll, a gauge for formal employment generation, are aged between 18 and 28. But while our economy keeps pace with employing young population, a staggering 57.3% of this workforce is self-employed, while another 18.3% work as unpaid laborers in households. The most prominent participant in both these categories happen to be women. As for regular wage or salaried workers, they constitute merely 20.9% of the workforce. Casual labor, characterized by sporadic, intermittent terms of employment, makes up for 21.8% of the workforce. Its not as if female labor workforce participation (FLFPR) is dwindling. In fact, as the survey notes, it has been rising for the last 6 years, with rural FLFPR inching up by 16.9 percentage points between 2017-18 and 2022-23. But the same rise is not to be seen in urban FLFPR, which inched up a meagre 5% to 25.4% in 2022-23. Pan-India, women participation in workforce jumped to 37%, largely driven by the thrust in rural FLFPR. The growth in terms of wages per worker in rural areas between FY15-22 was also higher in rural areas at 6.9%, as compared to 6.1% in urban areas. So, what can be done to rationalize this lopsidedness in employment? <h2>Developing the care economy </h2>In order to cater to the requirements of the growing workforce, the survey estimated that India will have to annually generate around 78.5 lakh non-farm jobs annually till 2030. And with India's care needs set to grow significantly in the next 25 years, it is time to develop India's care economy. Consider this-by 2050, the population of those aged between 0-14 years will decline to 18%, or 30 crore people, while those aged above 60 will swell to 20.8%, or a massive 34.7 crore person. Both these segments will need considerable care, which is currently an unpaid job both employed and unemployed women already undertake. Per NSO’s time use statistics for 2019, working-age women in India spend 5.6 hours per day on unpaid work, as opposed to just 30 mins for men. Even employed women end up spending 6x more time on unpaid care, compared to their male counterparts. As it is, studies notes that an additional hour of caregiving per day reduces women’s labor market participation by 20 percentage points, while having no effect on men. A recent report by CII pegged the economic value of women's unpaid domestic and care work to be a staggering 15-17% of GDP. As it is, care economy is one of the fastest growing sectors, expected to generate around 475 million jobs globally. In India, an investment of just 2% of GDP could lead to 11 million new jobs, 70% of which will go to women, accelerating their participation in labor force, the survey revealed. As such, developing India's care economy, both for catering to its young and silver dividend, will become a cornerstone for employment related policies in the times to come.

Economic Survey 2023-24: Where does India stand on the employment, and what's next?

Food and grocery delivery behemoth <keyword id="6358977" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Swiggy" source="Orion">Swiggy</keyword> is on a roll, pushing out multiple new services simultaneously, ahead of the festive season, and its much-touted Rs 11,664 crore IPO. Experts anticipate the IPO to hit the bourses in the upcoming months. Earlier last week, the company's shareholders had approved of raising the fresh issue component of the IPO, from Rs 3,750 crore previously to Rs 5,000 crore. This will allow Swiggy to add an extra Rs 1,250 crores to its coffers for future growth. The remaining Rs 6,664 crore will be an OFS (offer for sale), largely paving a way for Swiggy's old investors to exit. In the buildup to its IPO, the delivery giant is dialing up the competitive fever big time with rival <keyword id="19901323" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Zomato" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Zomato" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Zomato">Zomato</keyword>, which went public in 2021. Swiggy recently launched <keyword id="23440051" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="XL-Fleet" source="keywords">XL Fleet</keyword> for large-scale <keyword id="20299302" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="food-delivery" source="keywords">food delivery</keyword> and Bolt, which is an <keyword id="23461052" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="AI-powered-logistics" source="keywords">AI-powered logistics</keyword> system. Per some media reports, the company is also launching an invite-only concierge membership program called the "Rare Club", which will have an annual fee of up to Rs 50,000. <h2>Who doesn't love a little pettiness? </h2>But that's not it. In the time being, Swiggy is also aggressively looking for ways to gain maximum public attention, one of which is by sponsoring the fourth season of the popular entrepreneurial reality show <keyword id="11924074" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="shark-tank-india" source="Orion">Shark Tank India</keyword>. But here's the catch-a key condition of this deal is to not bring back Zomato CEO <keyword id="19901325" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="deepinder-goyal" source="keywords">Deepinder Goyal</keyword> as a shark. Media reports suggest that Swiggy is set to close on a massive Rs 40-60 crore sponsorship deal with the show. But in a seemingly low-ball move, Swiggy has blocked the return of Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal as one of the investors on the show. Goyal had made his debut on the third season of the show, and was looking to make a comeback alongside long-time regulars such as Anupam Mittal, Aman Gupta, Namita Thapar and Peyush Bansal. <h2>Bolting ahead with XL</h2>In a move that clearly underlines its ambitious expansion plans, Swiggy also recently announced the launch of its new XL Fleet service, which will look to cater exclusively to bulk orders and large-scale food deliveries. Per Swiggy's co-founder Nandan Reddy, XL is a natural evolution of Swiggy's services. As it is, a recent report by Bain and Company highlighted that India's food services market is set to double to a massive Rs 9 trillion by 2030, surging up significantly from its current standing of Rs 5.5 trillion. Not just that, the customer base is also set to expand from 320-340 million as of 2023 to 430-450 million by the end of the decade. Earlier this year, Zomato had also stepped in this segment by launching its large-order electric fleet, which could serve orders for a gathering of up to 50 people. Alongside this, Swiggy has unveiled Bolt, which is an AI-powered logistics system specifically designed to optimize delivery routes, predict demand patterns, and improve overall operational efficiency. The aim is to bring down on delivery time and costs, giving Swiggy a massive competitive edge in the growing food and quick delivery market. With this feature, Swiggy claims that users can get certain meals such as burgers, <h2>Challenges Await </h2>As of FY24, Swiggy's operating revenue stood at ₹112.5 billion, a 36% jump from the previous year. The company also managed to reduce its net losses by as much as 44% to ₹23.5 billion. While these may come across as positive signs, which are also pushing the company's unlisted shares to new heights, Swiggy significantly lags behind Zomato in both food delivery and quick commerce segment. Consider this. Per Morgan Stanely, as of FY24, Swiggy's GOV (gross order value) at Rs 24,700 crore, was far lower than Zomato's Rs 32,200 crore. Swiggy's GOV and AOV grew at a CAGR of 15.5% and 2.5% respectively, between FY22-24. In contrast, Zomato's GOV and AOV registered a CAGR of 23% and 3.7%, respectively. At 12.7 million, Swiggy's MTU (monthly transacting users) for FY24 were also a far cry behind Zomato's 18.4 million. Even when it comes to average order value (AOV), Swiggy's Instamart lags behind Zomato's Blinkit. This is also why analysts believe that despite Swiggy narrowing the gap on most key metrics like AOV, GOV and more, the company's share will command a lower valuation than that of its rival Zomato.

You Searched For "what is india" and got 12 results

YouTube unveils year-end trends, here is what India watched in 2024

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IPL 2025: What can you expect from the mega auction at Jeddah in Saudi Arabia?

BI India Bureau

No Driver? No Problem! Waymo’s driverless robotaxis make Los Angeles debut — but what could the tech mean for India?

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Curious to know what the Reserve Bank does? Star India will soon produce a web series narrating the RBI's 90-year journey

BI India Bureau

Why is Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the US this weekend?

Ashmita Gupta

What is pickleball — the new-ish sport trending among celebrities like Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Novak Djokovic?

Ashmita Gupta

Attention! Here's what is changing with your shares, starting November 11,2024

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India and China just reached a landmark agreement to de-escalate border tensions! Here's what happens now

BI India Bureau

"What happens in India affects a sixth of humanity": Shashi Tharoor highlights India's growing global influence

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India's refurbished smartphone market witnesses accelerated growth

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Economic Survey 2023-24: Where does India stand on the employment, and what's next?

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Ahead of much awaited IPO, what is Swiggy upto? Launching XL Fleet, premium membership and kicking out Zomato CEO

Ira Alok Puranik

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