Companies like Zepto, Blinkit, and nine others have received notices from the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) as part of a significant crackdown on a number of e-commerce and quick-commerce operators. According to media reports, complaints regarding suspected breaches of the Legal Metrology Act’s Mandatory Declaration Rules prompted the issuance of these notices.
For these offences, the CCPA has issued notices to eleven businesses operating in this domain. Some vendors have listed goods for human consumption without mentioning the best before or expiration dates, or without including the manufacturing date. In several cases, items were marketed without following proper labelling or packaging guidelines. These are grave offences. According to a CCPA official, the regulatory agency has requested that these businesses reply to the notices.
According to sources, Swiggy, Instamart, Meesho, MyGlamm, and Snapdeal are among the other businesses that have received these notifications. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs oversees the Central Consumer Protection Authority, or CCPA.
Consumer and Consumer Forums Highlighted the Matter
Consumer forums, including LocalCircles, and consumer concerns prompted these notifications. According to Sachin Taparia, the founder of LocalCircles, hundreds of customers have complained on their website regarding these violations. Most of them mentioned that they have received goods that are nearing their best before or expiration date through fast commerce and other e-commerce platforms.
Following the required validation and due diligence, LocalCircles authorities discovered that numerous online platforms are in violation of the 2017 Legal Metrology Packaged Commodity Rules Amendment, which mandates that online platforms reveal the best before date of packaged goods.
Additionally, LocalCircles polled internet shoppers nationwide to see if they could see the best-before dates on products intended for human consumption displays. According to the poll, 57% of these customers had trouble finding this information, up from 50% in 2023.
Who is Central Consumer Protection Authority?
Established under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, the CCPA went into effect on July 24, 2020, and is designed to regulate issues pertaining to consumer rights violations, unfair trade practices, and deceptive or false advertisements that harm consumers’ interests and those of the general public.
The CCPA maintains regional offices throughout India in addition to its headquarters in Delhi, the nation’s capital. A Chief Commissioner and other Commissioners chosen by the Central Government oversee the CCPA.
What Legal Metrology Act’s Mandatory Declaration Rule States?
The rule mandates that important product facts, such as the maximum retail price, weight, manufacturer information, expiration date, and consumer grievance addresses, be shown on packaged goods by both online and physical merchants.
In India’s largest cities, quick commerce—which provides incredibly quick delivery of groceries and everyday necessities—has become immensely popular, drawing both venture capital investment and customers. The regulatory action comes after CCPA Chief Commissioner Nidhi Khare recently stated that authorities were looking into whether rapid commerce platforms were complying with disclosure laws. As part of larger initiatives to safeguard consumer interests in digital commerce, the Consumer Affairs Ministry had previously hinted that it would take action against businesses deemed to be in violation of these rules.
An investment of INR 30 crore has been approved by Info Edge (India) for Redstart Labs (India), a fully-owned subsidiary of the business. 3,000,000 Compulsorily Convertible Debentures (CCDs) with a face value of INR 100 each have been agreed to be purchased by the company. Redstart is still the company’s wholly-owned subsidiary after this investment.
Redstart’s business activities include direct or indirect investments in tech companies, software development, consulting, technical support for consumer companies, internet or SAAS providers, and any other services related to product development and information technology.
RedStart Labs Invested INR 1 Crore in BrainSightAI Healthtech Firm
According to a BSE filing, RedStart Labs (India) invested around INR 1 crore in Bengaluru-based health technology business BrainSightAI in 2023. RedStart has a 4% fully converted and diluted interest in BrainSightAI.
Online classifieds, including Naukri.com, the matrimonial site Jeevansathi.com, and the real estate marketplace 99acres.com, are all owned by InfoEdge. BrainSightAI was founded in 2019 and uses artificial intelligence to give neurologists, psychiatrists, and neurosurgeons evidence-based treatment ideas.
About InfoEdge (India)
The business was first established as Info Edge (India) Private Limited on May 1, 1995, in accordance with the Companies Act of 1956. On April 27, 2006, it changed its name to a public limited company. Info Edge began as naukri.com, an online classified recruitment company. Since then, it has expanded and changed its business model quickly, becoming a model for others to follow. Today, it is India’s leading online listing company for recruitment, marriage, real estate, education, and associated services. It is driven by innovation, creativity, a strong culture of entrepreneurship, and a team of skilled and experienced leaders.
In order to capitalise on the thriving and expanding Indian internet industry, the corporation has made investments in start-ups and early-stage businesses, demonstrating its entrepreneurial spirit. The company currently owns shares in the following companies: Rare Media Company Private Limited, Goa-based Mint Bird Technologies Private Limited, Mumbai-based Green Leaves Consumer Services Private Limited, Etechaces Marketing and Consulting Private Limited, Kinobeo Software Private Limited, Canvera Digital Technologies Private Limited, Happily Unmarried Marketing Private Limited, and Zomato Media Private Limited.
Info Edge employs 4,049 people working in innovation, product development, social media and mobile integration, technology and technology updates, research and development, quality assurance, sales, marketing, and payment collection across its network of 62 offices spread across 43 cities in India. With the website www.naukrigulf.com, it has also ventured overseas into the Gulf market. At the moment, it maintains offices in Dubai, Bahrain, Riyadh, and Abu Dhabi.
The Indian festive season is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to grab the best deals on your favorite products. Whether you’re looking for the latest gadgets, trendy fashion, or home essentials, e-commerce platforms have got you covered with amazing discounts and offers. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the top e-commerce platforms that are known for their festive season discounts in India.
Amazon – Top E-Commerce Platforms Offering Festive Season Discounts In India
Overview:
Amazon is one of the largest and most popular e-commerce platforms globally. Known for its vast range of products, from electronics to clothing, Amazon offers significant discounts during the festive season.
Festive Season Offers:
Great Indian Festival: Amazon’s flagship sale event with massive discounts on various categories.
Lightning Deals: Limited-time deals with significant price drops.
Coupons and Vouchers: Additional savings with exclusive coupons.
Categories to Watch:
Electronics: Smartphones, laptops, and accessories.
Fashion: Clothing, footwear, and accessories.
Home Essentials: Kitchen appliances, furniture, and decor.
Pro Tip:
Keep an eye on Amazon’s app for early access to deals and additional app-exclusive discounts.
Flipkart
Company
Flipkart
Website
www.flipkart.com
Flipkart Sale Dates
21st to 31st October 2024
Flipkart – Top E-Commerce Platforms Offering Festive Season Discounts In India
Overview:
Flipkart is one of India’s leading e-commerce platforms, offering a wide range of products and competitive prices. During the festive season, Flipkart goes all out with its sales events.
Festive Season Offers:
Big Billion Days: Flipkart’s biggest sale event with incredible discounts across all categories.
Flash Sales: Limited-time offers with unbeatable prices.
Bank Offers: Additional discounts with specific bank cards.
Categories to Watch:
Electronics: Smartphones, TVs, and home appliances.
Fashion: Apparel, footwear, and accessories.
Groceries: Daily essentials at discounted prices.
Pro Tip:
Use Flipkart Plus membership for early access to deals and faster delivery options.
Myntra – Top E-Commerce Platforms Offering Festive Season Discounts In India
For fashion enthusiasts, Myntra is the go-to platform. During the festive season, Myntra’s “Big Fashion Festival” brings irresistible offers on clothing, accessories, and footwear.
Key Features:
Flash Sales: Limited-time offers on top fashion brands.
Bank Offers: Additional discounts with specific bank cards.
Myntra Insider: Exclusive deals for Myntra Insider members.
Exchange Offers: Exchange old clothes for discounts on new purchases.
Tata Cliq – Top E-Commerce Platforms Offering Festive Season Discounts In India
Tata Cliq offers a wide range of products, from fashion to electronics. During the festive season, Tata Cliq’s “Festive Sale” provides significant discounts on premium brands.
Key Features:
Cliq Cash: Earn and redeem Cliq Cash for additional savings.
Bank Offers: Extra discounts with select bank cards.
Flash Deals: Limited-time offers on top brands.
Easy Returns: Hassle-free returns policy.
Paytm Mall
Company
Paytm Mall
Website
www.paytmmall.com
Paytm Mall Sale Dates
3rd to 16th November 2024
Paytm Mall – Top E-Commerce Platforms Offering Festive Season Discounts In India
Paytm Mall combines the convenience of e-commerce with the benefits of Paytm Wallet. The “Maha Cashback Sale” during the festive season is a shopper’s delight.
Key Features:
Cashback Offers: Earn cashback on every purchase.
Bank Offers: Additional cashback with specific bank cards.
Combo Deals: Save more with combo offers.
Paytm First: Exclusive deals for Paytm First members.
Ajio
Company
Ajio
Website
www.ajio.com
Ajio Sale Dates
17th to 27th October 2024
Ajio – Top E-Commerce Platforms Offering Festive Season Discounts In India
Ajio is Reliance’s fashion and lifestyle e-commerce platform. During the festive season, Ajio’s “Big Bold Sale” offers steep discounts on a wide range of products.
Key Features:
Flash Sales: Limited-time discounts on top fashion brands.
Bank Offers: Additional discounts with select bank cards.
Ajio Wallet: Earn and redeem Ajio Wallet points.
Exchange Offers: Exchange old clothes for discounts on new purchases.
ShopClues – Top E-Commerce Platforms Offering Festive Season Discounts In India
ShopClues is known for its affordable products. During the festive season, ShopClues’ “Diwali Sale” features significant discounts across various categories.
Key Features:
Daily Deals: New deals every day during the festive period.
Bank Offers: Extra savings with selected bank cards.
Flash Sales: Limited-time offers on top brands.
Free Shipping: Free delivery on many products.
Pepperfry
Company
Pepperfry
Website
www.pepperfry.com
Pepperfry Sale Dates
October 2024
Pepperfry – Top E-Commerce Platforms Offering Festive Season Discounts In India
For home furnishings and decor, Pepperfry is a popular choice. The “Diwali Sale” on Pepperfry brings attractive discounts on furniture and home decor items.
Key Features:
Mega Deals: Significant discounts on furniture and home decor.
Bank Offers: Additional discounts with specific bank cards.
No-cost EMI: No-cost EMI options on various products.
Free Assembly: Free assembly services on furniture.
Nykaa
Company
Nykaa
Website
www.nykaa.com
Nykaa Sale Dates
23rd October to 4th November 2024
Nykaa – Top E-Commerce Platforms Offering Festive Season Discounts In India
Nykaa is the ultimate destination for beauty and personal care products. During the festive season, Nykaa’s “Diwali Dhamaka Sale” offers great deals on top beauty brands.
Key Features:
Flash Sales: Limited-time discounts on popular beauty brands.
Bank Offers: Additional discounts with select bank cards.
Loyalty Points: Earn and redeem Nykaa reward points.
Combo Deals: Save more with combo offers.
Conclusion
The festive season is the perfect time to grab amazing deals on your favorite products. You are sure to find something that fits your needs and budget because there are so many e-commerce platforms offering substantial discounts. With their amazing holiday sales, these leading e-commerce sites have you covered whether you are looking for electronics, clothing, or household necessities. So, get ready to shop and save big this festive season!
FAQ
Which websites in India give you the best festive discounts?
Here are some websites in India with the best festive discounts:
Amazon
Flipkart
Snapdeal
Myntra
Tata Cliq
Paytm Mall
Ajio
ShopClues
Pepperfry
Nykaa
How to get maximum discount on online shopping?
To get the maximum discount on online shopping, use these tips:
Look for promo codes: Search for discount codes online before checkout.
Use cashback apps/websites: They offer extra savings on purchases.
Wait for sales: Big sales like Black Friday, Diwali, and end-of-season sales offer great
What is lucky to buy on Diwali?
On Diwali, it’s considered lucky to buy gold, silver, new clothes, or kitchen items like utensils. Many also purchase electronics or home appliances, as it’s a symbol of welcoming prosperity and good fortune for the coming year!
Hotel firm OYO’s former chief financial officer (CFO), Abhishek Gupta, has been appointed CFO of eyewear manufacturer Lenskart.
“I recently started working at Lenskart as the CFO after nine incredible years at OYO,” Gupta stated. In his October 22 LinkedIn post, Gupta thanked OYO founder Ritesh and the entire team for their friendship and trust. Mukti Hariharan, who had been CFO of Lenskart before this, left to join Coca-Cola; therefore, this news comes as no surprise.
Abhishek Gupta’s Stint as an OYO Executive
Gupta started working with OYO in June 2015. He oversaw investor relations, treasury and controllership operations, and fundraising over his nine years with the company, all of which were vital to its financial expansion.
His assistance was especially crucial when OYO handled important changes, such as getting ready for its initial public offering. In December 2023, he announced his departure after Rakesh Kumar, who had worked for the company for more than six years, was elevated to the position of group CFO.
Switching from OYO to Lenskart
According to his LinkedIn profile, Gupta formally joined Lenskart in August 2024 after departing OYO in March. Gupta’s duties at Lenskart include improving corporate governance and spearheading the company’s financial strategy.
His proficiency in financial management and long-term strategic planning will be essential as Lenskart is growing its market share. Former Lenskart CFO Mukti Hariharan departed the firm in September 2024 after guiding it through significant turning points, including a $200 million capital round in June.
Hariharan, who began working with Lenskart in April 2023, said she was proud of the high-achieving team she helped create while she was associated with the firm. She currently works as the Vice President of Finance at Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia.
The Professional Experience and Vision of Gupta for Lenskart
Gupta has held positions at GE and Philips in addition to OYO. Gupta, an MBA graduate from the Indian School of Business and Harvard University, has continuously shown that he is a financial expert when it comes to overseeing extensive businesses.
His duties at Lenskart will be centred on long-term planning, financial management, and promoting the business’s continuous expansion in the cutthroat eyeglasses sector.
Recent Financial Status of Lenskart
Peyush Bansal, Neha Bansal, Amit Choudhary, and Sumeet Kapahi, the company’s co-founders, recently contributed close to USD 20 million to Lenskart. According to the corporation, it runs more than 2,500 outlets, almost 2,000 of which are in India. Nearly 60% of its revenue originates from India, with the remainder coming from other markets such as Singapore, Dubai, the US, and Southeast Asia.
Operating revenue for Lenskart increased significantly from INR 1,502 crore in FY22 to INR 3,788 crore in the fiscal year that ended in March 2023. The company was able to cut its losses by 37.3%, from INR 102 crore in FY22 to INR 64 crore in FY23, thanks to this expansion and controlled spending.
As Black Friday approaches, businesses of all sizes brace for massive consumer spending, especially in e-commerce. From long lines at physical stores to the digital rush of online shopping carts, this annual shopping frenzy is an opportunity for businesses to cash in on eager shoppers looking for the best deals. The holiday season can be both a blessing and a challenge for startups. Black Friday and Cyber Monday can bring significant revenue boosts, but they also come with the risks of customer burnout, potential scams, and logistical hurdles.
In this article, we’ll explore how startups can ride the wave of Black Friday through innovative coupon strategies while staying mindful of common pitfalls—like fraud and poor customer experience.
The Impact of Black Friday on Startups
Black Friday is no longer confined to a single day of shopping mania. What was once a brick-and-mortar blowout has evolved into an online, multi-week event that spans across continents. For startups, the sheer scale of this consumer event offers a potential goldmine, but only if they are well-prepared.
On the plus side, Black Friday presents an opportunity for startups to:
Increase sales volume: Many startups see a significant spike in sales over Black Friday and Cyber Monday. These sales can be a lifeline for new businesses struggling to find a foothold.
Grow brand awareness: With consumers actively hunting for deals, startups have a chance to introduce themselves to new customers through competitive pricing, viral campaigns, and standout offers.
Clear inventory: For e-commerce startups, offering deals allows them to offload unsold inventory before the end of the year, freeing up space for new products in the following quarter.
However, startups often face challenges like handling the logistical demands of fulfilling a surge in orders or facing the threat of negative reviews if the shopping experience doesn’t meet customer expectations. Moreover, without established customer trust, startups are particularly vulnerable to issues like shopping scams and the misuse of online coupons.
The Power and Perils of Online Coupons for Startups
One of the most effective tools startups can wield during Black Friday is the online coupon. Coupons entice price-sensitive shoppers, drive traffic to websites, encourage larger order sizes, and help build customer loyalty. According to a study by Inmar Intelligence, 90% of consumers use coupons in some form, and 77% of consumers are influenced by deals when they shop online. While this number holds an impressive mark, what’s more concerning is that last year, over 34 million USD was lost in the USA alone to shopping scams, as ExpressVPN reports.
Online coupons are often perceived as a win-win for businesses and customers. For businesses, coupons:
Drive traffic: Coupon codes shared on social media, deal websites, and email campaigns can direct large volumes of shoppers to a startup’s e-commerce site.
Increase average order value: Offering “X% off when you spend Y” or “Free shipping with a minimum purchase” encourages customers to buy more to unlock savings.
Enhance customer acquisition: A well-timed coupon can lure first-time buyers, helping startups grow their user base.
But coupons can also be a double-edged sword. Startups must beware of the following risks:
Deep discounts affecting profitability: If discounts are too steep or too frequent, they can erode profit margins, especially for startups with slim operating budgets.
Fraudulent coupon use: Online scams are rampant, especially during the Black Friday rush. Startups need to ensure their coupon systems are secure to prevent misuse, such as coupon stacking or codes being shared on third-party sites without permission.
Common Black Friday/Cyber Monday Shopping Scams
The rise of online shopping during Black Friday and Cyber Monday has increased fraudulent activities, from fake websites mimicking legitimate e-commerce stores to phishing emails offering bogus “too good to be true” deals. These scams hurt consumers and damage businesses, especially newer startups that may not have robust security measures in place. Here are some common scams that startups—and their customers—should watch out for:
Fake Websites and Clone Stores: Scammers set up fake e-commerce websites that resemble real ones, luring shoppers with false deals and discounts. Startups must monitor their online presence and flag copycat sites that might deceive potential customers.
Coupon Code Fraud: Black Friday shoppers are notorious for hunting down coupon codes from all corners of the web. However, scammers often post fraudulent or expired codes that frustrate customers and lead to cart abandonment. Startups should implement tools to restrict unauthorized coupon usage.
Phishing Emails and Social Media Scams: Hackers send out phishing emails or run fake social media ads pretending to be legitimate brands offering massive discounts. These scams can tarnish a startup’s reputation, as unsuspecting customers might associate the brand with the scam. Startups should encourage customers to verify email and social media promotions through official channels.
Gift Card Fraud: Gift card sales often surge during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Scammers will sometimes sell fake or stolen gift cards at a discount, leaving customers unable to redeem them. Startups should ensure they are only selling gift cards through secure platforms and trusted partners.
Protecting Your Startup and Building Trust During Black Friday
To avoid falling prey to scams and ensure a smooth Black Friday, startups should focus on several key strategies:
Implement robust fraud detection tools: Use tools to detect coupon misuse and block unauthorized traffic. AI-powered e-commerce platforms can flag suspicious behavior, like coupon stacking or abnormal purchasing patterns.
Leverage social proof and trust signals: Highlight positive customer reviews, feature secure payment options, and display trust badges on your website. Consumers are more likely to buy from startups they perceive as secure and trustworthy.
Ensure transparency in promotions: Be upfront about deal terms, restrictions, and availability. When consumers feel tricked by vague or misleading offers, they won’t hesitate to air grievances publicly, tarnishing your brand reputation.
Educate customers on avoiding scams: Use your platform to provide shoppers with tips on how to avoid fraud. Simple content, like blog posts or social media alerts, can go a long way in establishing your brand as a trusted advisor during the holiday shopping season.
How Startups Can Stand Out in the Black Friday Crowd
As you gear up for Black Friday, here are a few ideas to make your startup stand out:
Exclusive deals for email subscribers: Building an email list before the holiday season allows you to offer personalized coupons or early access deals that incentivize signups and foster brand loyalty.
Collaborate with influencers: Partnering with micro-influencers can help amplify your Black Friday offers to niche audiences, ensuring more targeted engagement.
Bundle offers: Offering value-packed product bundles with a unique coupon code can attract shoppers who are looking for comprehensive deals rather than single-item discounts.
Conclusion
For startups, Black Friday and Cyber Monday present numerous opportunities and significant risks. Effectively using online coupons can drive traffic, boost sales, and increase brand awareness, but startups must remain vigilant against scams and customer dissatisfaction. By leveraging trust signals, securing their platforms, and offering well-thought-out promotions, startups can make the most of the holiday shopping frenzy while building long-term customer loyalty.
Ready to make your mark this Black Friday? Use smart coupon strategies and fraud prevention measures to give your startup the boost it needs! For more actionable advice, remember to stay updated with insightful tips and trends on sites like StartupTalky.
A classroom buzzing with energy, students eagerly engaged in learning, and a teacher seamlessly orchestrating it all with the help of advanced NLPs. Sounds like Hogwarts, doesn’t it? Well, Hogwarts like feels are in there, thanks to AI that’s going bonkers – and that too for all the right reasons. We at StartupTalky have seen firsthand how AI is transforming education, and we’re excited to share some game-changing tools that are making teachers’ lives easier and students’ learning experiences richer. What are they? Well, buckle up and get ready to discover how these free (and some paid) AI tools are shaking things up in classrooms around the world.
Quizizz is revolutionising the way teachers create and manage assessments. With its AI-powered features, this platform serves as a personalised teaching assistant, helping educators craft engaging and effective quizzes in seconds. The AI integration allows teachers to modify question types, fix grammatical errors, and even replace questions with similar ones, all generated by artificial intelligence. This is a major time-saver for busy educators, allowing them to focus on building meaningful relationships with their students.
Personalised learning paths
Quizizz can create customised learning paths for students. The platform adapts to each learner’s pace, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the material. For instance, if a student excels in a particular area, Quizizz presents more challenging questions to keep them engaged. Conversely, if a student struggles, the system offers questions that reinforce fundamental concepts before progressing to more complex topics. This adaptability ensures that every student receives the attention they need for their individualised education plan.
Real-world scenario generation
To make learning more relevant and fun, Quizizz can convert questions into real-world scenarios. This feature helps students see the practical applications of what they’re learning, particularly useful in subjects like maths. Teachers can also add themes to their quizzes or use custom prompts to tailor the content to their specific needs. This approach not only makes the learning experience more engaging but also helps students understand how their knowledge applies to everyday situations.
What sets Canva Magic Write apart from other teaching tools is its integration with Canva‘s robust visual design features. Teachers can start with one of Canva’s templates and use Magic Write to generate text content, which they can then enhance with Canva’s vast library of images, graphics, and design elements. This combination of AI-generated content and visual design tools allows educators to create engaging and visually appealing materials for their students.
Presentation creation features
One of the standout features of Canva Magic Write is its ability to help teachers create compelling presentations. By simply describing their idea in a few words, educators can watch as the AI smartly fills out their story with an outline, slides, and content. This AI presentation maker saves valuable time, allowing teachers to focus on personalising and refining the content to suit their specific teaching style and students’ needs.
Plan
Pricing
Free
₹0/Month
Pro
₹4000/Month per user
Teams
₹4000/Month per user
Enterprise
Custom
Curipod
Website
www.curipod.com
Rating
4.5
Free Trial
Yes
Platforms Supported
Web, IOS/Android
Curipod – Best AI Tools for Teachers
Curipod is revolutionising the way teachers create and deliver lessons. This innovative platform harnesses the power of AI to generate engaging, interactive lessons in seconds. Teachers simply input a topic or learning objective, and Curipod’s AI produces a comprehensive lesson outline, complete with suggested activities and discussion questions. This time-saving feature allows educators to focus on personalising content and fostering meaningful connexions with their students.
Diverse activity types
The platform has a wide array of interactive activities. From polls and quizzes to AI whiteboards and word clouds, this teaching tool offers a variety of options to keep students engaged. The platform even includes an AI feedback feature, allowing students to receive instant, personalised feedback on their work. This diverse range of activities caters to different learning styles and helps maintain student interest throughout the lesson.
Student engagement features
Curipod goes beyond traditional teaching tools by incorporating features that boost student participation. The platform allows students to vote on each other’s submissions, encouraging peer interaction and critical thinking. Additionally, Curipod’s collaborative environment facilitates group activities and discussions, helping students develop essential soft skills like communication and teamwork. With its multimedia integration and real-time assessment tools, it creates an immersive learning experience that keeps students actively involved in their education.
Brisk Teaching is a game-changer for educators looking to streamline their workflow. This Chrome extension seamlessly integrates into teachers’ existing online routines, offering AI-powered support without added complexity. With just a few clicks, teachers can generate comprehensive lesson plans, saving hours of precious time.
Resource creation
Brisk can create a wide range of educational resources. From presentations and quizzes to rubrics and interventions, this tool has got teachers covered. It can even craft personalised feedback directly within students’ Google Docs, turning a time-consuming task into a matter of minutes.
Efficiency benefits for teachers
The impact of Brisk Teaching on educators’ productivity is remarkable. By automating many labour-intensive tasks, it allows teachers to focus on what truly matters – connecting with students and delivering high-quality instruction. With over 600,000 educators reportedly saving 10+ hours every week, Brisk Teaching is proving to be an indispensable ally in the classroom, helping teachers reclaim their time and mental space for more creative and impactful teaching.
Plan
Pricing
Free
$0/Month
Pro
$9.99/Month
School & District
Custom
Class Companion
Website
www.classcompanion.com
Rating
4.6
Free Trial
Yes
Platforms Supported
Web, IOS/Android
Class Companion – Best AI Tools for Teachers
Class Companion is revolutionising the way teachers provide feedback and support to their students. This innovative AI tool for teachers offers instant coaching and AI feedback, improving student engagement and outcomes. Teachers can use their own content or generate assignments with AI, giving students low-stakes, unlimited practise opportunities.
Student performance analysis
The platform comes with in-depth reporting capabilities. Teachers can track student progress with unprecedented clarity, gaining insights into what each student understands. The platform provides detailed data on engagement, including attempts, hints, and disputes, as well as mastery scores and improvement metrics.
Personalised learning recommendations
Class Companion excels in providing personalised learning experiences. The AI adapts to each student’s needs, offering targeted help and multiple attempts for assignments. Teachers can customise rubrics to control AI feedback and choose from various question types, including short answer, essay, multiple choice, and outline formats. This flexibility allows for a full spectrum of practise, accommodating students at different levels and enhancing their critical thinking and synthesis skills.
Plan
Pricing
Teacher
$0/Month
School
Custom
District
Custom
AudioPen
Website
www.audiopen.ai
Rating
4.9
Free Trial
Yes
Platforms Supported
Web, IOS/Android
AudioPen – Best AI Tools for Teachers
AudioPen is a game-changer for educators looking to streamline their note-taking and content creation process. This AI-powered tool converts spoken words into neatly formatted text, making it one of the best AI tools for teachers. With AudioPen, educators can record verbal feedback, dictate emails, and even outline lesson plans hands-free.
AI writing enhancement
What sets AudioPen apart from other teaching tools is its intelligent clean-up feature. Unlike simple transcription services, AudioPen uses AI to refine the text, correcting grammar and adding proper breaks. This means teachers can speak freely, knowing the final output will be polished and professional.
Uses in educational content creation
AudioPen shines in various educational scenarios. Teachers can use it to provide live feedback after marking exams, compile thoughts into coherent formats, and even translate spoken notes into different languages. It’s particularly useful for non-native English speakers, helping them capture ideas without worrying about grammar. With options to summarise content and change output styles, AudioPen proves to be a versatile AI tool for teachers, enhancing productivity and accessibility in educational institutions.
OpenAI‘s guide for educators on teaching with AI in the classroom is a valuable resource for teachers looking to incorporate AI tools into their practise. This comprehensive guide offers insights into using ChatGPT effectively, addressing both its potential and limitations.
Educational prompts
The guide provides a wealth of prompt ideas for various educational tasks. Teachers can use ChatGPT as a tutor,generate quizzes and lesson plans, and even create prompts for writing exercises. For instance, Helen Crompton, an instructional technology professor, uses ChatGPT as a debate partner to challenge her students’ arguments, enhancing their critical thinking skills.
Guidance on responsible AI use
OpenAI emphasises the importance of teaching AI right from wrong, filtering harmful content, and responding with empathy. The guide addresses concerns about bias and truthfulness in AI-generated content, offering strategies to help students evaluate the credibility of AI responses critically.
Explanations of AI capabilities and limitations
The guide gets into how ChatGPT works, its effectiveness, and its limitations. It encourages educators to explore AI’s potential while being mindful of its constraints. OpenAI provides an FAQ section that covers topics such as AI bias, student use of AI-generated content, and age-appropriate AI use, helping teachers navigate these complex issues in the classroom.
Plan
Pricing
Free
$0/Month
Plus
$20/Month per user
Team
$30/Month per user
Enterprise
Custom
Our Thoughts
Looking ahead, the future of education seems brighter than ever, with AI as a powerful ally in the teaching toolkit. These tools aren’t just confined to the efficiency they bring –they’re rather opening up new possibilities for creativity and personalised learning. Moreover, those who can stay up-to-date with these innovations, would be the ones to get benefited by it. Moreover, to stay in the loop with the latest in edtech and other game-changing innovations, why not sign up for StartupTalky’s newsletter ‘Smell The Coffee’? It’s packed with insights, news, and case studies to help you stay ahead of the curve.
FAQ
Which is the best AI tool for teachers?
Here are the best AI tools for teachers:
Quizizz
Canva Magic Write
Curipod
Brisk Teaching
Class Companion
AudioPen
OpenAI’s Teaching with AI guide
How AI can help a teacher?
AI can help teachers by automating administrative tasks like grading, providing personalized learning experiences for students, and offering real-time feedback. It can also assist in tracking student progress, identifying learning gaps, and offering insights to improve teaching strategies.
How to apply AI in teaching?
AI can be applied in teaching by personalizing learning experiences, automating grading, and providing real-time feedback. It can also help track student progress and identify learning gaps.
In the cultural capital of Maharashtra, where tradition and craftsmanship intertwine, Saurabh took the reins of a legacy that has been cherished since 1832. He is not just a jeweler but a visionary who transformed the Indian jewelry industry by taking it to global stature.
Saurabh, a name synonymous with legacy, opulence, and tradition, has inherited more than just a family business. He is the successor of an heirloom built on trust, exquisite craftsmanship, and rich heritage.
Born into a kingdom of gold, Saurabh inherited a passion for jewelry and revolutionized it into a billion-dollar fortune. With a keen eye for design, a modern perspective, a relentless pursuit of perfection, and a knack for business acumen, Saurabh has elevated the family jewelry business to unprecedented heights.
From the humble beginnings of PNG Jewellers through his Dajikaka in the lanes of Pune to making the company a global brand, Saurabh has steered the future of Indian jewelry with modern luxury, capturing the hearts of many customers worldwide.
As the sixth generation of the legendary PNG Jewellers family business, Saurabh’s unique ability to fuse heritage with innovation sets him apart. Under his leadership, the company expanded globally, reaching international markets while retaining the soul of its traditional roots. Saurabh’s forward-thinking strategies, like embracing eCommerce and modern marketing, played a pivotal role in the company’s remarkable growth, making it a billion-dollar empire.
In this exclusive StartupTalker story, we will discover the secrets behind Saurabh’s success and the challenges he overcame. Let’s uncover the innovative strategies that have propelled PNG Jewellers to the forefront of the Indian jewelry industry.
Saurabh Gadgil Biography
Name
Saurabh V Gadgil
Born
1976 or 1977
Nationality
Indian
Hometown
Pune, Maharashtra
Education
Bachelor of Commerce PhD in Mechanical Engineering Master of Business Administration
Alma Mater
Brihan Maharashtra College of Commerce University of Texas, Austin Symbiosis Institute of International Business
Saurabh was born in Pune to the legendary Gadgil family, deeply rooted in the traditional gold jewelry business. Raised in Pune, he has been deeply influenced by strong family values soaked in ethics and trust, which can be seen in his business stratagems. These strong cultural beliefs proved invaluable as he later undertook leadership roles within the family business, whose reign dates back to 192 years.
Being raised in a close-knit family of legendary jewelers, Saurabh was exposed to the world of fine craftsmanship and gold jewelry at a very young age. Over the years, he has naturally instilled his family’s meticulous approach to both business and customer relations, which played a crucial role in shaping his vision as a modern-age business leader.
For his education, Saurabh pursued a bachelor’s degree in commerce from Brihan Maharashtra College of Commerce in Pune and flew abroad to the USA for a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Texas, Austin. Later, due to his interest in business management, he pursued an MBA degree from the Symbiosis Institute of International Business.
Saurabh Gadgil – Career
Saurabh’s academic journey began with an internship at the Reserve Bank of India, where he was acquainted with the knowledge of the gold market.
In 1998, Saurabh joined his family’s jewelry business, PNG Jewellers, bringing in an unwavering dedication to the entrepreneurial spirit. When he took the reins of PNG, he revamped marketing strategies towards modernizing the structure by introducing eCommerce and making the business more consumer-centric.
Saurabh’s main contribution has been the brand’s retail expansion with the opening of new stores in Aurangabad, Baramati, Goa, Kolhapur, Latur, Mumbai, Nashik, Pune, and Solapur, UAE, and the United States. This expansion has allowed PNG Jewellers to reach a wider audience and establish itself as a global luxury brand.
Saurabh Gadgil with Salman Khan and Madhuri Dixit
In 2014, Saurabh collaborated with renowned Bollywood celebrities and launched a limited-edition jewelry line with his innovative approach to marketing and branding. Under his leadership, he teamed up with Salman Khan and featured a PNG-exclusive collection in the movies Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, and Dilwale. To attract the masses, Saurabh launched the PNG TIMELESS collection with Madhuri Dixit and opened a luxurious boutique store at JW Marriott, Pune.
In 2015, Saurabh partnered with actor Preity Zinta and opened the first PNG store in Fremont, California. The same year, Saurabh was appointed as the Vice President of West Zone for the Indian Bullion & Jewellers Association Limited, where he advocates for the interests of the jewelry industry and contributes to policy-making.
In September 2016, Salman Khan collaborated with PNG and introduced the Being Human Jewellery brand. The sister company of PNG, SQJPL, is the official distributor of Being Human Jewellery with a global license.
In September 2024, under Saurabh’s headship, PNG Jewellers launched their IPO, making him the newest member of India’s Billionaires’ Club after the company’s shares surged by 61%. Through his visionary leadership, strategic thinking, and passion for excellence, Saurabh has propelled PNG Jewellers to new and global heights. As of 2024, PNG Jewellers has 39 operating stores in Maharashtra, with 28 self-owned stores and 11 franchisee outlets.
Saurabh hails from Pune and belongs to a family deeply rooted in Maharashtrian culture. Known to be a family-orientated person, Saurabh resides in Pune with his family.
In 2020, Saurabh married Radhika Gadgil, and the couple is blessed with two boys. Despite his prominent public figure, Saurabh maintains a private personal life.
Beyond business, Saurabh is a former national-level chess player and enjoys being involved in local cultural and social events, reflecting on his deep connection to his heritage and upbringing.
Saurabh Gadgil – Awards And Recognition
Saurabh Gadgil, MD & Chairman, of PNG Jewellers, has received several awards and accolades for his innovative business acumen, leadership, and contributions to family business.
Maharashtrian Youth Entrepreneur Icon Award 2017.
CITADEL Award for Excellence in Business 2017.
Entrepreneur Excellence Award 2017 by deAsra Foundation.
Times of India Award for Visionary in Jewellery Retain, India 2018.
Influencer of Industry Award in GJTCI Excellence Award 7th Edition, 2019.
Exemplary Leader (Consumer Goods) Awards 2023.
Debut in the Bloomberg Billionaires Index 2024.
Saurabh Gadgil – Famous Quote
💡
I don’t measure successes with bottom lines. I measure it with growth curves. You become what you believe.” Saurabh Gadgil, MD & Chairman at PNG Jewellers.
FAQs
Who is Saurabh Gadgil?
Saurabh Gadgil is the Managing Director and Chairman of PNG Jewellers.
What is Saurabh Gadgil net worth?
The net worth of Saurabh Gadgil is $1.1 billion (Oct 2024).
Who is Saurabh Gadgil wife?
Saurabh married Radhika Gadgil, and the couple is blessed with two boys.
Dutch technology investor Prosus is still optimistic about the Indian market despite its unsuccessful bet on Byju’s, which was once the most valuable company in the country. Fabricio Bloisi, CEO of Prosus and Naspers, stated that the company will keep investing in India and is enthusiastic about the future of the nation. In a letter to shareholders on October 21, 2024, Bloisi stated that Prosus, the biggest investor in Swiggy, which is set to go public, also anticipates more Indian businesses in its portfolio to do the same over the next 12 to 18 months.
Prosus, which is mostly owned by Naspers of South Africa, has invested in several Indian businesses, such as Meesho, Urban Company, and PharmEasy.
Swiggy’s IPO a Master Stroke for Prosus
“Swiggy declared its intention to go public. Our initial investment and effort in India is yielding positive results. In the upcoming 12 to 18 months, I anticipate seeing more of our investments in Indian initial public offerings,” Bloisi stated. In addition to filing for an IPO of INR 10,000 crore, Swiggy obtained shareholder approval to possibly increase the amount of its entire issuance to around INR 11,700 crore. The IPO is the largest startup IPO since Paytm’s INR 18,300 crore public offering in 2021, and it is anticipated to go live next month. After an absence of three years, a thriving Indian initial public offering (IPO) market has pushed a number of startups, including FirstCry and Ola Electric, to go public. Several other modern enterprises are also in queue for IPOs.
Prosus and Byju’s Legal Battle
In addition to opposing Byju’s rights issue, Prosus and a few other investors, such as Peak XV Partners and General Atlantic, have been involved in a legal dispute with the startup, bringing a suit against the management for harassment and mismanagement. Prosus wrote off its investment in Byju’s earlier this year due to insufficient information about the company’s liabilities, financial standing, and prospects. According to Bloisi, Prosus increased its e-commerce adjusted ebit by over $400 million in FY24 and is currently valued at $100 billion.
Prosus cut its Byju’s valuation to $5.1 billion nearly a year ago, just after its representative quit from the board of Think and Learn Pvt. Ltd., the edtech startup’s parent business. Additionally, representatives from the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative and Peak XV Partners left Byju’s board.
In November of that year, Prosus again reduced its Byju valuation to $3 billion. Given how widely education is being adopted digitally worldwide, Prosus is still very interested in the field of education. However, during the company’s earnings call on June 24, a Prosus spokesperson stated that all three of the education firms in its portfolio—Stack Overflow, Skillsoft, and Byju’s—had not met the organisation’s goals. “Over the past year, our performance has been hindered by Byju’s.”
On 21 October 2024, PB Fintech announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, PB Financial Account Aggregators Private Ltd, had received a “Certificate of Registration” (CoR) from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to begin operating as an “Account Aggregator.” Subject to the RBI-mandated restrictions outlined in the CoR, the Wholly Owned Subsidiary may operate as a non-banking financial institution without taking deposits from the general public.
In a filing with the stock exchanges, PB Fintech stated that PB Financial Account Aggregators Private Ltd is now qualified to operate as an account aggregator following the CoR approval. The CoR will go into effect on October 18, 2024.
Managing Body
Policybazaar, an insurance aggregator, and Paisabazaar, a credit marketplace, are both operated by PB Fintech, the primary entity. In January 2023, the RBI gave PB Financial Account Aggregators in-principle authority to launch their account aggregation service. PB Fintech established a fully-owned subsidiary, PB Financial Account Aggregators, in February 2022 and submitted an application to the RBI to get a “CoR” as an NBFC-AA. Debit cards, credit cards, cardless EMIs, UPIs, bank transfers, e-wallets, and e-mandates are just a few of the payment options that payment aggregators allow their clients to accept.
For the quarter ending June 30, 2024, PB Fintech recorded a consolidated net profit of INR 59.98 crore, compared to a net loss of INR 11.90 crore for the same period in the previous fiscal year. For the third consecutive quarter, the business turned a profit and stayed in the black in the June 2024 quarter. PB Fintech declared a net profit of INR 60.19 crore for the March 2024 quarter. In the quarter ending December 2023, PB Fintech reported a net profit of INR 37.2 crore.
Current Account Aggregator Scenario in India
With the accreditation, PB Fintech becomes an NBFC-AA, joining the ranks of companies like Perfios, Setu, and DigiO.
One component of the India Stack is the account aggregator framework. Its goal is to make it possible for a system of financial data exchange to send client information securely and with their express agreement. Customers can choose how their financial information is shared by voluntarily registering with an AA.
94 financial institutions have implemented the account aggregator framework as both Financial Information Provider (FIP) and Financial Information User (FIU) as of June 30, 2024. 353 financial institutions have launched as FIU, whilst 60 financial institutions have launched as FIP.
PB Fintech received its NBFC-AA certification while simultaneously attempting to enter the payment aggregation market. The business founded PB Pay earlier this year, and in March 2024, it submitted an application for a payment aggregator licence.
In addition to this, PB Fintech wants to expand beyond its core financial services industry. Yashish Dahiya, the group CEO of PB Fintech, stated last month that the company is thinking of investing $100 million all at once to enter the healthcare industry. After receiving board approval, the corporation will use the investment to purchase a 30% share in a new healthcare business.
According to Ola Electric, out of the 10,644 customer complaints it has received thus far, 99.91% have been handled and resolved successfully. In a regulatory filing on September 21, 2024, the manufacturer of electric two-wheelers notified the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) of the latest developments on long-pending customers’ issues. The CCPA issued a show-cause notice to the Bengaluru-based company earlier this month in response to subpar conditions at its service centres throughout the nation.
The Department of Consumer Affairs’ National Consumer Helpline reports that between September 1, 2023, and August 30, 2024, 10,644 complaints were filed against Ola e-scooters. Of these, 1,899 deal with new vehicle delivery delays, 3,389 with servicing delays, and 1,459 with unmet promises of services.
The Claims Made by Ola in its Filing
Ola Electric said in a regulatory filing that it would like to make it clear that it has a strong system in place to handle concerns about its electric two-wheeler. In reality, the company would like to highlight that, thanks to Ola Electric’s strong redressal system, 99.1% of the 10,644 complaints it received from the CCPA were resolved to the full satisfaction of the consumer.
A notice from the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) was also addressed by the company, which is run by Bhavish Aggarwal. Prior to the company’s BOSS sale, the notification raised concerns about the price plan of its S1 X 2 kWh scooters. Ola Electric gave clients an invoice dated October 6 that showed a INR 5,000 discount and stated that it had not changed the prices during the sale. Additionally, it provided a screenshot taken from its app, verifying that the scooter’s cost had not altered.
What Exactly Happened Earlier?
With as many as 80,000 customer complaints each month going viral on social media and stories of Ola Electric vehicles collecting dust at repair locations, this calculated approach is a response to growing customer unhappiness. Both lawmakers and consumer watchdogs were drawn to the outcry.
Ola Electric was recently served with a show-cause notice by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), which included possible abuses of consumer rights, deceptive advertising, and unfair business practices. More than 10,000 outstanding after-sales service concerns were highlighted in the notification.
Ola Electric has made plans to grow its network of service centres in response to these problems, with the goal of increasing the number from 400 to 1,000 by the end of the year. Industry experts caution that expanding the number of centres alone might not address the main problem. An analyst said, “Instead of growing, the company should concentrate on enhancing the quality of current service stations.”
Nitin Konde
