Author: Rabindra

Youth4Jobs Foundation and Zero Project to Co-Host Zero Project India Conference 2024

New Delhi, September 20, 2024: The Zero Project India Conference 2024, a landmark event dedicated to advancing disability inclusion through innovation, is set to take place on September 19-20 at The Leela Hotel, Gurugram. Organized by Youth4Jobs Foundation, with the global Zero project, this conference represents a crucial platform for addressing the needs of India’s largest minority—people with disabilities—by showcasing pioneering solutions and fostering collaboration across sectors. This second edition of the Zero Project India Conference builds on the success of the inaugural event, with a renewed focus on driving systemic change in this sector.

In India, approximately 63.28 million people, or 4.52% of the population, live with disabilities, according to the ICMR’s publication from the NFHS-5 survey (2019-21). This significant portion of the population represents the largest minority in the country, underscoring the urgent need for inclusive initiatives that address their unique challenges. The Zero Project India Conference 2024 aims to meet this need by highlighting innovations in technology, education, and policy that can transform accessibility and inclusion for millions.

Meera Shenoy, Founder and CEO of Youth4Jobs Foundation, emphasized the importance of the conference, stating, “The Zero Project India Conference is more than just an event; it is a catalyst for change, bringing together diverse minds to create an inclusive future. At Youth4Jobs, we are deeply committed to addressing the needs of people with disabilities, who constitute the largest minority in India. This conference allows us to leverage innovation and collaboration to break down barriers and build a society where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive. By focusing on grassroots innovations and the empowerment of women with disabilities, we are not only addressing current challenges but also paving the way for a more equitable future.”

The conference agenda will be rich with impactful sessions, including a discussion on the global potential of Indian grassroots solutions. This panel will explore how local innovations, driven by community needs, can be scaled to make a global impact. Topics range from AI to grassroot, women, assistive tech, early interventions, Building bridges with Africa etc. The event will also feature a dedicated session on the Women Entrepreneurs with Disabilities (WEDO) initiative, an important Youth4Jobs program that empowers women to become leaders in their communities. These discussions underscore the conference’s commitment to not only addressing the challenges faced by people with disabilities but also empowering them to lead the charge in creating solutions.

“With the Zero Project India Conference, we have a unique and powerful opportunity to forge connections between our extensive global network of experts and the incredible, homegrown innovations arising from India and beyond. This platform is not just about sharing knowledge, but about fostering a collaborative environment where international leaders and local changemakers can work together to address some of the most pressing challenges in accessibility, inclusion, and social development. By building these bridges, we aim to amplify the impact of pioneering solutions that hold the potential to transform societies globally.” said Michael Fembek, CEO of the Zero Project.

The conference is supported by The Hans Foundation and Axis Bank Foundation, both of which play a crucial role in advancing disability inclusion in India. Their involvement underscores the importance of multi-sector collaboration in driving meaningful change.

As India continues to grow as a hub for innovation, the role of initiatives like the Zero Project India Conference becomes increasingly vital. By fostering dialogue and collaboration between global and local stakeholders, this event aims to accelerate the adoption of innovative practices that can significantly improve the quality of life for people with disabilities across the nation.

Youth4Jobs Foundation, alongside its partners, is leading this mission, setting the stage for a future where inclusivity is not just an aspiration but a reality. The Zero Project India Conference 2024 is poised to be a landmark event in the ongoing journey toward a more inclusive and accessible world.

Dr. P. D. Patil Receives Lifetime Achievement Award at 36th Pune Festival 2024

Pune, 20th September 2024: Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth proudly announces a monumental achievement as our esteemed Chancellor, Hon’ble Dr. P. D. Patil, is honoured with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the 36th Pune Festival 2024. The award, presented by Shri. Ajit Pawar, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, recognizes Hon’ble Dr. Patil’s dedication and outstanding contributions to education, healthcare and social service.

The Pune Festival, inaugurated amidst great splendour, is a celebrated cultural event founded by Mr. Suresh Kalmadi and Mrs. Meera Kalmadi in collaboration with the Maharashtra Tourism Directorate and the Government of India’s Tourism Department. Known nationwide for its vibrant celebration of India’s diverse cultural heritage, the festival showcases art, music and tradition, symbolising Pune’s prominence on the national stage.

Hon’ble Dr. P. D. Patil has been a visionary leader whose relentless commitment to advancing education and healthcare has transformed Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth into one of India’s most respected institutions. Under his visionary leadership, the Vidyapeeth has introduced innovative academic programs, modern teaching methodologies and state-of-the-art research facilities that set new benchmarks in education. Dr. Patil’s focus on creating a world-class learning environment has not only elevated the institution’s standards but also inspired countless students and educators to strive for excellence.

Dr. Patil’s contributions extend beyond education, as he has been a pivotal force in revolutionizing healthcare through the establishment of advanced medical facilities and hospitals. His efforts have enhanced patient care and accessibility to quality healthcare, positively impacting lives across Maharashtra and beyond. Dr. Patil’s dedication to social service is equally commendable, as he continues to support numerous philanthropic initiatives aimed at uplifting the underprivileged and addressing societal challenges.

Speaking on this significant occasion, Hon’ble Dr. P. D. Patil expressed, “Receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award is a profound honour that humbles me deeply. I am grateful for this recognition and take it as a responsibility to continue my efforts in education, healthcare and social service. My heartfelt thanks to Mr. Suresh Kalmadi and Mrs. Meera Kalmadi for their vision in making the Pune Festival a beacon of cultural unity. I also wish to acknowledge the contributions of Mr. S. D. Phadnis, whose artistic spirit has brought joy to Maharashtra. It is a privilege to be part of a community that celebrates diversity and excellence.”

The Lifetime Achievement Award is a testament to Dr. Patil’s enduring legacy, inspiring generations to follow in his footsteps. His visionary leadership and dedication continue to shape the future, making a lasting impact on education, healthcare and social welfare.

As Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth moves forward, it remains committed to upholding the values and vision of Hon’ble Dr. P. D. Patil, advancing initiatives that foster excellence, innovation and community service.

Unraveling the art, history and economic opportunities of Kanpur with TOI Dialogues

KANPUR, INDIA (September 20, 2024) – The Times of India Dialogues, a premier platform for exploring India’s urban development, announces its upcoming event in Kanpur on September 23, 2024. This edition aims to spotlight Kanpur’s transformation from an industrial hub to a multifaceted economic and cultural center. Following successful events in Gorakhpur, Lucknow, and Varanasi, TOI Dialogues Kanpur will bring together thought leaders, industry experts, and notable personalities to discuss the city’s pivotal role in Uttar Pradesh’s progress and India’s growth story.

The event will feature a keynote address by Awanish Kumar Awasthi, Advisor to the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, focusing on Kanpur’s development trajectory. A series of panel discussions will explore Kanpur’s economic transformation, cultural impact, and entrepreneurial success stories. The program also includes engaging fireside chats with prominent figures such as Manu Bhaker (Indian Olympic shooter), Divyenndu, (acclaimed actor), Malini Awasthi (Folk Singer & Padma Shri Awardee) and Srikanth Bolla (Chairman of Bollant Industries).

“Kanpur’s story is an exemplary case study of the growth of culture & economy. Through TOI Dialogues, we aim not just to chronicle this remarkable journey, but to ignite conversations that will shape the city’s—and indeed our nation’s—future,” said Prasad Sanyal, Business Head of Timesofindia.com.

The event will delve into Kanpur’s traditional industries, emerging sectors, and cultural contributions, providing a comprehensive view of the city’s significance in India’s development narrative. It will take place on September 23, 2024, starting at 5:30 PM, with the venue to be announced.

Alvarez & Marsal Appoints Bharat Garg and Sameer Amte as Managing Directors to Strengthen Its India Leadership Team

MUMBAI, INDIA, 20 September 2024 – Leading global professional services firm Alvarez & Marsal (A&M) India has announced the appointment of Bharat Garg and Sameer Amte as Managing Directors in its Business Transformation Services practice. These appointments align with A&M’s strategy to expand capabilities across key sectors in India by attracting top talent and providing clients with comprehensive solutions. The firm remains focused on delivering bespoke services to support clients in the consumer, retail, and industrial sectors, helping them navigate challenges to unlock growth opportunities.

Bharat Garg, based in Mumbai, brings over 16 years of strategic consulting experience across diverse sectors including FMCG, direct-to-consumer brands, fashion, and retail. Bharat has been driving large-scale business transformations, corporate strategy formulation, and end-to-end margin improvement for clients globally. His prior role as a Partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG) saw him lead key transformation projects for global Fortune 200 companies, significantly improving operational efficiencies and strategic outcomes. At A&M, Bharat will focus on expanding A&M’s consumer and retail practice and strengthening the firm’s capabilities in end-to-end transformation and driving operational improvements.

Sameer Amte, based in Pune, joins A&M with over 20 years of consulting experience across industrial, retail, and life sciences sectors. Sameer has a proven track record in EBITDA improvement programs, digital transformation, supply chain planning, and omni-channel transformation initiatives. Prior to joining A&M, Sameer held senior leadership roles at Accenture Strategy and Consulting leading the retail and life sciences practice in India. Sameer has spearheaded major digital transformation projects, helping clients navigate complex challenges in sales, supply chain, and cost optimization. At A&M, Sameer will strengthen the firm’s industrial sector capabilities and leverage digital strategies to drive growth for clients across sectors in a rapidly evolving market.

Himanshu Bajaj, Managing Director and India Co-Country Leader at A&M, said:

 “Bharat and Sameer’s appointments underscores our commitment to strengthening the leadership team and expanding our service offerings in India. Their deep expertise in the industrial and consumer sectors, combined with their ability to deliver practical, hands-on solutions, will help our clients unlock new growth opportunities. As we continue to grow and evolve in India, their leadership will be instrumental in ensuring we meet the needs of businesses looking to thrive in this fast-changing landscape.

Bharat Garg, Managing Director at A&M, commented:

 “India’s rising income levels and the corresponding growth in consumer spending are reshaping the consumer and retail landscape. Companies need to adapt to the evolving demands of customers to stay relevant. A&M’s operational expertise and deep understanding of market dynamics position us uniquely to deliver solutions that help businesses scale effectively and profitably while staying responsive to consumer needs. I am excited to join A&M and contribute to its mission of driving transformative growth for clients globally.

Sameer Amte, Managing Director at Alvarez & Marsal, added:

 “India’s industrial sector is poised for substantial growth, fueled by “Make in India” initiative launched by the GOI to promote investments coupled by shifts in global supply chains. The organizations have a unique opportunity to take advantage of this dynamic situation and expedite their growth ambitions. However, organizations must carve out clear growth path, and strengthen their operations by leveraging digital and gen AI to give themselves an excellent chance to take advantage of this opportunity. A&M’s unique combination of developing growth and RTM strategies, digital led operational excellence and global reach enables us to deliver comprehensive solutions that drive transformation agendas of the organization. I am happy to join the firm at such a dynamic time and look forward to helping our clients achieve their strategic goals.”

Flourish Hearth 2nd Edition: Embracing Roots. Sustainable Futures

Bengaluru, 20th September 2024 – Flourish is thrilled to announce the return of its esteemed event “Flourish Hearth” for its 2nd Edition, scheduled for September 21st and 22nd at the distinguished Shankaraa Foundation. This highly anticipated event will feature over 50 artisans, industry leaders, and discerning consumers, celebrating exceptional craftsmanship and sustainable innovation.

Flourish Hearth offers an unparalleled platform for artisans to showcase and sell their meticulously handcrafted works directly to an engaged audience. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a diverse array of artisanal products, including jewelry, apparel, and home decor, while interacting with the skilled makers behind these unique items. This initiative is designed to foster meaningful connections between creators and consumers, emphasizing the intersection of artistry and sustainability.

A standout feature of this year’s event is an impressive 16 feet tall kinetic installation, crafted entirely from scrap materials such as chips wrappers, cassette tapes, and old CDs. Designed by Madhuri Umashankar from Bangalore Creative Circus (BCC), this installation embodies the ‘Design the Waste’ ethos, showcasing how resources can be repurposed creatively and sustainably.

The event will present a series of engaging workshops, offering immersive experiences in both traditional and contemporary techniques. Highlights include:

• Kautuk: Discover the ancient art of Tholu Bommalata (Leather Puppetry) and craft intricate leather shadow puppets, including festive decorations.

• Mehrang: Engage in the art and science of fragrance creation by crafting personalized scented wax melts and exploring aroma blending.

• Nirmaan: Design and build miniature structures from authentic terracotta, guided by experts with all necessary materials provided.

• Nakashi: Learn the ancient art of Kalamkari from master artisans, creating intricate designs on fabric using traditional techniques and natural dyes.

• Chitraang: Create hand-painted Cheriyal masks inspired by Indian mythology, guided by skilled artisans.

• Aavran: Craft personalized earrings, pendants, and bracelets from natural clay, with expert guidance through each step of the process.

“Flourish Hearth is a pivotal platform that underscores our commitment to empowering artisans and advancing sustainable practices. This event not only celebrates the art of craftsmanship but also fosters essential connections between creators and the community, driving positive impact,” said Neelam Chhiber, Managing Director of Industree Foundation.

One of the highlights of the event will be “ZAINAB – An Evening of Soulful Sufi Music,” presented in collaboration with Mehfil-E-Ishq on September 21st. This exclusive performance, featuring acclaimed artists Aanchal Shrivastava and Divya Batra Das, promises a profoundly enriching experience for Sufi music enthusiasts.

Additionally, Flourish Hearth will host a panel discussion titled “Preserving Heritage, Securing Livelihoods: Weaving a Sustainable Future.” This insightful dialogue will bring together artisans, environmental experts, and anthropologists to explore how traditional crafts can address climate change and promote sustainable development. Panelists include Pinky Chandran, a plastic policy analyst, author, and community journalist with a focus on waste management and environmental advocacy; Romal Laishram, Assistant Editor at the New Indian Express-Indulge, renowned for his insights into cultural and environmental issues; Ruchita Singh, founder of AMAR KOSA, and Veena Hegde, founder of Prashanti Foundation and a mentor in sustainable rural livelihoods, who will share their expert insights on how traditional crafts can play a crucial role in climate change mitigation, adaptation, and resilience, ensuring the preservation of our cultural heritage while fostering sustainable economic growth.

“Flourish Hearth is all about connecting artisans with conscious consumers in a way that truly celebrates sustainability. The event plays a key role in emphasizing transparency and celebrating every step of the journey, from the hands that create to the hands that buy. We want every purchase to feel meaningful, making a real impact that both artisans and consumers can truly appreciate,” added Pragati Tripathi, Chief Operating Officer, Flourish.

A participating artisan, Mallamma Yalawar, from Sabala Handicrafts shared, “Being involved in Flourish Hearth allows us to reach a wider audience and engage in important discussions about handmade crafts and sustainability.”

Noise Launches Air Buds Pro 4 in India: Hybrid ANC & 50-Hour Playtime

India, 20th September 2024: Noise, India’s leading connected lifestyle brand today announced the launch of Noise Air Buds Pro 4, the fourth addition to its best-selling Air Buds series. Building on the overwhelming success of its predecessors, the new series continues to set new standards for premium audio experiences. Celebrated for its innovation, the latest addition delivers exceptional sound quality while embodying a sleek and stylish metallic design with a glossy finish. Featuring Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that reduces ambient noise by up to 40dB, these earbuds offer an immersive audio experience like never before. With an impressive battery life of up to 50 hours, the Noise Air Buds Pro 4 is the ideal choice for those who demand superior sound, elegance, and endurance in their everyday lives.

Commenting on the launch, Amit Khatri, Co-Founder, Noise, said, “Building on the legacy of our Air Buds series, we are thrilled to introduce the latest addition to our flagship series. Crafted with consumer-centricity at the core of its design, Noise Air Buds Pro 4 delivers a premium audio experience that balances performance, style, and accessibility. With Hybrid ANC, a sleek metallic design and up to 50 hours of playtime, these earbuds set a new standard for immersive sound. We are confident that this launch will truly captivate audiophiles and solidify our position as a leader in the segment.”

Engineered to deliver unmatched dynamic audio performance and powerful bass, the Air Buds Pro 4 boasts 10mm dynamic drivers. With Spatial Audio integration, these earbuds create a 3D soundstage that enhances music, movies, and gaming experiences. Adding to users’ delight, the Quad Mic ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation TM) feature ensures a crystal-clear calling experience by eliminating unwanted surround sound.

Noise Air Buds Pro 4 sports ultra-low latency of up to 40ms for users to avoid lagging during their gaming or video playback experience. Ensuring continuous connectivity to the always-on-move users, the new earbuds feature the brand’s proprietary and industry-leading technology, InstachargeTM, providing upto 50 hours of total playtime and 200 minutes of continuous playtime with just 10 minutes of charging.

With an aim to provide consumers with a quick and hassle-free one-step connection experience, Noise Air Buds Pro 4 sports HyperSync™ technology that facilitates seamless and hassle-free pairing, accompanied by the uninterrupted connectivity of BT v5.3, supporting a fast and stable connection offering the wake and pair feature. The introduction of Google Fast Pair technology in the new earbuds lets consumers instantly connect with any of their gadgets – smartphones, tablets and laptops. With a simple one-tap setup, consumers can effortlessly pair their buds and dive straight into the captivating world of sound.

Designed to withstand sweat and water splashes, its IPX5 water resistance rating guarantees that they are a perfect partner for fitness routines and any other outdoor use cases. The lightweight earbuds come in a sleek metallic case making it a perfect lifestyle accessory to suit the style statement of modern-day users.

Mashreq Expands Partnership with Mindgate Solutions to Transform Corporate Collections Globally

Mumbai, 20 September 2024 – Mashreq, one of the leading financial institutions in the MENA region, has successfully completed the UAE implementation of its Corporate Collections transformation in partnership with Mindgate Solutions, a global leader in payment technology and transaction processing. This partnership marks a significant milestone as Mashreq extends the VTransact DigiTB Corporate Collections Suite to its global markets.

The VTransact DigiTB Corporate Collections Suite is an innovative, scalable platform designed to empower Mashreq’s Corporate clients’ real-time collections through both digital and physical channels. Its microservices architecture enables it to function as a multi-country, multi-tenant solution, fostering an inclusive and sustainable financial ecosystem. The platform offers seamless, real-time settlement of collections and integrated reconciliation of receivables. This pioneering solution ensures that businesses of all sizes can access cutting-edge, scalable financial tools, further enhancing Mashreq’s corporate collections portfolio.The expansion of this partnership was formalized by Mohamed Abdel Razek, Group Head of Technology, Transformation & Information at Mashreq, and Sajeev Kumar, Head of Corporate & Enterprise Risk Technology at Mashreq, alongside George Sam and Guhan Muthuswamy, Co-founders of Mindgate Solutions.

Mohamed Abdel Razek, Group Head of Technology, Transformation & Information at Mashreq said, “We are proud to have initiated this global success story with Mindgate by launching the VTransact DigiTB Corporate Collections Suite in the UAE. Today, I am excited to announce the expansion of our partnership into new markets. This transformation journey will extend across our global footprint, providing each country with a solution tailored to meet specific regulatory and infrastructure needs.

George Sam, Co-founder & Business Head, Mindgate Solutions said, “We really appreciate how the Mashreq is fully leveraging our product’s capabilities to support their expansion plans. We are also pleased to know that this implementation is enhancing the bank’s corporate collections process and supporting its business growth. We look forward to achieving more milestones in this partnership journey. With a global footprint that includes over 10 leading financial institutions in the MENA region, Mindgate is excited about expanding with Mashreq into new geographies and aims to become the preferred partner in the transaction banking and payments space”.

Guhan Muthuswamy, Co-founder & Software Architect, Mindgate Solutions added, “We are delighted to support Mashreq Bank as their transformation partner, guiding them through their transformation journey with VTransact DigiTB. This advanced platform ensures the bank swiftly adapts to evolving customer and market demands, as well as regulatory requirements. With VTransact DigiTB, we aim to empower Mashreq Bank to lead the industry by leveraging cutting-edge technology for enhanced efficiency, security, and customer satisfaction. The VTransact DigiTB Corporate Collections Suite is part of our comprehensive range of end-to-end Transaction Banking products, which includes cash management, payments, collections, and liquidity management.”

Mindgate Solutions has been at the forefront of the payment’s revolution from its inception, establishing itself as a key global player in payments technology and transaction processing. The company has led the way in developing next-generation payment gateways and mobile-based collections platforms. Mindgate Solutions continues to be a leader in the payments space.

Cushman & Wakefield Report: Malls Transforming Through Experience and Innovation

20th Sept 2024: Cushman & Wakefield’s recent report on malls highlights the evolving landscape of retail spaces, emphasizing how consumer preferences and shopping habits have shifted dramatically in recent years. With the rise of e-commerce and changing demographics, traditional malls are facing significant challenges, prompting many to rethink their strategies. The report notes that successful malls are increasingly focusing on creating experiential environments that blend retail, dining, and entertainment. This approach not only attracts foot traffic but also fosters community engagement, allowing malls to remain relevant in a competitive market.

 Moreover, the report identifies key trends shaping the future of malls, such as the integration of technology and sustainable practices. Many malls are adopting smart technology solutions to enhance customer experiences, from personalized shopping recommendations to contactless payment options. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on sustainability, with many properties investing in green initiatives to appeal to environmentally-conscious consumers. As a result, the report suggests that malls that innovate and adapt to these trends will be better positioned to thrive in the evolving retail landscape.

 Sanju Bhadana, MD, 4S Developers

 The massive rise in residential real estate driven by economic growth and growing prosperity amongst Indians is generating more demand for malls. Markets like Gurugram have been taking the lead and the coming years will witness stupendous growth in all segments of real estate sector favoured by Government’s policy and focus on infrastructure development. The rising income levels and propensity to spend will create more demand for grade A malls in India especially Gurugram.

 Mr. Pradeep Aggarwal, Founder & Chairman, Signature Global (India) Ltd

 India’s retail market is witnessing robust growth with consumers more inclined toward Grade A malls. The top-grade malls are increasingly emerging as cultural and community-focused hubs rather than just shopping and entertainment destinations. As such, they are well-positioned to shape the future of organized retail in India. Amid the rising aspirational population, the demand for top-notch quality retail spaces is set to rise phenomenally particularly in places like Gurugram, as more and more people prefer a one-stop solution that offers a combination of top-notch shopping experience, entertainment, ambience, and community engagement all at a one place.

AiSensy Wins ‘CTWA Partner of the Year 2024’ Award at WhatsApp Business Summit

India, 20th September 2024 : AiSensy, the leading WhatsApp-based Marketing & Engagement platform, has bagged the prestigious award for Click to WhatsApp Ads Partner of the Year 2024 at the WhatsApp Business Summit 2024 by Meta. The summit was held at Jio Convention Centre with the participation of over 1,000 delegates. Some of the companies that attended the summit are Axis Bank, Nykaa, Tata Motors, Groww, Reliance Digital, and several more. An award for excellence speaks volumes about AiSensy’s outstanding contributions to WhatsApp Business Solutions, especially in revolutionizing ads that click to WhatsApp for businesses.

As the first WhatsApp Business Solutions Partner to implement natively-supported Ads that click to WhatsApp, AiSensy is empowering businesses to simply create and run ads that click to WhatsApp from its dashboard, manage leads and re-engage customers through broadcasts and chatbots. The company’s latest innovation, AI Ad Campaign Manager, has revolutionized the way businesses target audiences. Businesses have seen 5 times more leads at the same ad budget and 3 times revenue growth with AI-driven audience optimization.

“We are highly elated to receive the Click to WhatsApp Ads Partner of the Year award from Meta. From being awarded “Emerging Partner of the Year 2023” to “Click to WhatsApp Ads Partner of the Year 2024” it has been a rollercoaster ride. This award really goes out to the excellent efforts our team has been putting through for the last few years.”, the CEO & founder of AiSensy, Mr Gautam Rajesh Shelley, said. ”Our AI Ad Campaign Manager has been helping 5000+ businesses run ads that click to WhatsApp and we’ve driven over 100 Cr+ in revenue for them via these ads. I still feel this is just a beginning.”

Whatsapp Business Summit 2024:

WhatsApp Business Summit was the largest WhatsApp event hosted by Meta on 12th September 2024. The event included major product launches of WhatsApp alongside inspiring sessions on how the topmost organisations are using WhatsApp to improve customer engagement and drive conversions. Case studies from brands like HDFC Bank, Juicy Chemistry, and Grab demonstrated the power of WhatsApp as a marketing channel. A number of new strategies for engaging with customers on WhatsApp were shared to help the brands connect with them effectively.