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Time of India
04-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Conduct polls to elect Manesar dy mayors in 3 weeks, HC tells Haryana govt
Gurgaon: Punjab and Haryana high court has directed Haryana govt to conduct the elections for the posts of senior deputy mayor and deputy mayor of Municipal Corporation of Manesar (MCM) fairly and within a specified timeframe, "preferably within a three-week period". The division bench of Justice Sudhir Singh and Justice Alok Jain on Tuesday, while disposing of a petition, asked MCM to consider the representation (dated June 2) of the petitioner — filed by an RTI activist — and pass an appropriately reasoned order within three weeks from the date of receiving the order. This directive is to be fulfilled in accordance with the law, it said. You Can Also Check: Gurgaon AQI | Weather in Gurgaon | Bank Holidays in Gurgaon | Public Holidays in Gurgaon The inaugural meeting of the MCM House was held on June 10. However, the elections of the senior deputy mayor and deputy mayor did not take place at the meeting. Polls to elect the first MCM house were held on March 2 and the results of the MCM polls, besides MCG and other municipal corporations of the state, were announced on March 12. Among the 10 municipal corporations in Haryana that conducted polls in March this year, Manesar was the sole corporation where the BJP's performance was subpar. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Luxury Apartments With Sundecks In Dombivli Lodha Opulis Learn More Undo In the results declared on March 12, 13 out of 20 Independent councillors emerged victorious, while BJP secured seven seats in the MCM elections. However, in June this year, seven councillors joined the BJP, which granted the party a clear majority, now holding 14 out of 20 seats in MCM house. According to the Haryana Municipal Corporation Election rules, 1994, the commissioner shall, within a period of sixty days of the notification of the names of the members elected to the corporation, convene a meeting of the corporation at forty-eight hours' notice to be delivered at the ordinary place of residence of members. The notice shall clearly state that the election of senior deputy mayor and deputy mayor shall be held in this meeting to be presided over by the mayor in the presence of the commissioner.
Time of India
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'Bold, Culturally Rooted, and Scalable Storytelling for a Young, Diverse India'
Asia Pacific Video Operators Summit At the Asia Pacific Video Operators Summit (APOS) 2025, hosted by Media Partners Asia (MPA), JioStar Entertainment leaders Alok Jain and Krishnan Kutty laid out a compelling blueprint for the future of Indian storytelling — one that's bold, emotionally resonant, culturally rooted, and built for scale. In a fireside session titled 'Inside the Next Wave of Indian Storytelling', moderated by Vivek Couto, Executive Director and Co-Founder of MPA, Jain and Kutty outlined JioStar's ambitions to champion local voices, innovate across formats, and program for India's young, diverse, and multilingual audiences. Redefining the Role of the Platform 'In a country as creatively diverse as India, it's no longer about scaling content — it's about resetting the creative ecosystem,' said Alok Jain, Chief of Content at JioStar. 'At JioStar, we're committed to ensuring creators are not boxed in by platforms, formats, or legacy structures. Today's storytellers move seamlessly — from short-form to long-form, social to television, digital to streaming. Our role is not to act as gatekeepers, but as collaborators.' He added that JioStar is building infrastructure that allows storytellers to move fluidly across mediums, giving them room to evolve while staying authentic. 'That's how we grow the ecosystem — by empowering creators, not restricting them. That's also how we expand its impact.' Boldness, Redefined: From Spectacle to Substance 'What was considered bold five or six years ago is not what's considered bold now,' said Krishnan Kutty, CEO of JioStar. 'Back then, it was about scale and visual spectacle. Today, boldness is about pushing societal norms, asking deeper questions, and doing it within the Indian context. We're not in California; we're in India. Our job is to push boundaries, but also to carry our audience with us.' This ethos is reflected in JioStar's programming — where boldness is not a matter of provocation, but of emotional depth, authenticity, and local resonance. Programming for a Young, Demanding India Jain emphasized that Indian consumers are evolving rapidly, and with them, so must formats and strategies. 'It's a young country. People are exposed to new things and they're demanding and unforgiving. If the story isn't great, they won't watch — regardless of who stars in it.' He cited Thukra Ke Mera Pyaar, a 19-episode show with 50-minute episodes, a debut director, and a debut cast, which turned into a hit from day one. 'That's proof the audience will embrace newness if the content speaks to them.' JioStar is also experimenting with non-fiction, micro-dramas, and hybrid formats. 'Innovation isn't a tactic for us — it's the baseline,' Jain said. The Untapped Youth Opportunity — Especially in the South While platforms like MTV have made inroads with younger audiences, Kutty pointed out that broadcasters and streamers have largely under-programmed for Gen Z. That's about to change. 'For the South, we are committed to increasing our programming volume for that audience by 7 to 10 times.' Jain echoed that youth-focused storytelling is both a creative and business imperative. 'If the industry is to run in a sustainable manner, we must drive content profitably — and focusing on youth is a big one for us.' Embracing the Multilingual, Multi-India Landscape Krishnan Kutty highlighted India's unique advantage: a multilingual, culturally rich ecosystem that fosters endless creative possibilities. 'The diversity of India is a gift from a content creator perspective — every state, every region is a source of different perspectives. What's remarkable is how audiences embrace content beyond their own language or state.' He gave the example of Kerala,"A small state like Kerala creates stories that travel nationwide. 80% of the consumption on JioHotstar for Malayalam content is outside the state. Great stories truly transcend borders.' India's digital video ecosystem is also vast — with 500–600 million users consuming 4–5 hours of content daily. 'The real challenge isn't what to do — but what not to do. There's significant headroom for both subscription and ad growth. And between premium long-form dramas and social storytelling lies a massive untapped space.' Resetting the Economics of Storytelling Kutty was candid about the systemic challenges facing the streaming industry: 'In streaming, we've escalated prices to a point where producers have become B2B entities, creating primarily for the platform, not the end consumer. That has led to a disconnect. Unless the model is reset, I believe it's deeply broken.' Reflecting on the state of theatrical entertainment in India, Alok Jain observed -'We've been in a difficult period where people aren't coming to theatres unless the movie is really, really good. Watching a film now is a three-hour commitment — and that's a big ask.' He argued that both storytellers and exhibitors must reinvent. 'Creators need to tell more authentic stories. Theatre owners must rethink pricing, experience, and value delivery. Theatrical viewing must feel like an experience - not just a screening.' The Great Reset — and the Great Opportunity Jain believes Indian content is poised for a reset — but one filled with possibility. 'Consumers are adapting to multiple formats, and I believe the space will settle. The industry is very cognizant of that. This reset is happening across content types — theatrical films, television, digital-first. And with that comes the opportunity to rethink, reformat, and rebuild.' With 320,000 hours of content across JioStar's network, the common thread, he said, is human emotion and shared experience. 'Our focus is to tell authentic stories from every corner of the country — stories that resonate universally. That emotional truth is what allows Indian content to scale and even travel globally.' India: A Strategic, Youth-Driven Market India remains one of the most strategic markets globally, said Jain. 'With a billion young people, 22 languages, and a thriving economy, India is unmatched in scale and diversity. What makes it exciting is not just its size — it's the scale, youth, and openness to change.'
Yahoo
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
India's JioStar Execs Outline Vision for Youth-Focused Content at APOS
Indian media giant JioStar is positioning itself as a collaborator rather than gatekeeper in India's evolving content ecosystem, with executives outlining an ambitious vision for culturally rooted storytelling that serves the country's massive youth demographic. Speaking at the APOS conference in Indonesia, JioStar content chiefs Alok Jain and Krishnan Kutty detailed plans to dramatically scale programming for Gen Z audiences, particularly in South India, where they intend to increase volume by 7 to 10 times current levels. More from Variety Banijay Locks Indonesia Deals as Southeast Asia Expansion Accelerates, CEO Reveals at APOS Amazon Doubles Down on India Streaming Wars With Two-Platform Strategy Asia-Pacific's $175 Billion Screen Economy Enters Tougher Monetization Phase, APOS Summit Reveals 'In a country as creatively diverse as India, it's no longer about scaling content, it's about resetting the creative ecosystem,' Jain said during a fireside session titled 'Inside the Next Wave of Indian Storytelling.' 'At JioStar, we're committed to ensuring creators are not boxed in by platforms, formats, or legacy structures.' The exec emphasized the company's role as facilitator rather than traditional broadcaster. 'Our role is not to act as gatekeepers, but as collaborators,' he said. 'We're building mechanisms that empower creators to move fluidly across mediums, with opportunities that evolve with their voice.' Kutty, meanwhile, redefined what constitutes bold storytelling in the current landscape. 'What was considered bold five or six years ago is not what's considered bold now,' he explained. 'Back then, it was about scale and visual spectacle. Today, boldness is about pushing societal norms, asking deeper questions, and doing it within the Indian context.' The executive stressed the importance of cultural authenticity: 'We're not in California; we're in India and we need to be rooted in our cultural values. Our job is to push boundaries, but also to carry our audience with us.' JioStar's approach comes as India's entertainment industry grapples with evolving audience demands and economic pressures. Jain pointed to the success of 'Thukra Ke Mera Pyaar,' a 19-episode series with 50-minute episodes featuring debut talent that became a hit from launch, as proof that audiences will embrace innovation. 'The Indian consumer is constantly evolving. It's a young country,' Jain noted. 'People are exposed to new things, and they're demanding and unforgiving. If the story isn't great, they won't watch, regardless of who stars in it.' The focus on youth programming reflects broader industry recognition that traditional broadcasters have underserved Gen Z audiences. 'While MTV and the youth cluster are doing some outstanding work, broadcasters and streamers have not programmed enough for Gen Z,' Kutty said. Kutty highlighted India's unique multilingual advantage, noting that 80% of Malayalam-language content consumption on JioHotstar occurs outside Kerala. 'The diversity of India is a gift from a content creator perspective – every state, every region is a source of different perspectives which provides a wealth of stories,' he said. However, both executives acknowledged current economic challenges in the streaming sector. Kutty described what he sees as 'a broken economic model' where 'we've escalated prices to a point where producers have become B2B entities, creating primarily for the platform, not the end consumer.' The company operates with significant scale, reaching over 750 million weekly viewers across 80-plus television channels and streaming platform JioHotstar. Jain noted that 800 million viewers watch the JioStar network while 400 million stream on JioHotstar, with approximately 320,000 hours of content across multiple languages. 'With a billion young people, 22 languages, and a thriving economy across sectors, India is unmatched in scale and diversity,' Jain said. 'What makes India exciting is not just its size, it's the scale, youth, diversity, and openness to change, making it a strategic market.' The executives emphasized that sustainable growth requires profitable content creation, with youth programming representing a key component of that strategy. As Jain put it: 'If the industry is to run in a sustainable manner, we must drive content profitably – and focusing on youth is a big part of that.' Best of Variety New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week 'Harry Potter' TV Show Cast Guide: Who's Who in Hogwarts? 25 Hollywood Legends Who Deserve an Honorary Oscar
Economic Times
11-06-2025
- Business
- Economic Times
Why China's going all in on gold and India isn't, says financial adviser
China is reshaping global gold demand with a bold, state-led strategy to reduce reliance on the US dollar and prepare for prolonged economic turbulence. From directing insurance firms to buy physical gold to encouraging citizens to hold it, Beijing is shifting the financial landscape. Meanwhile, trade tensions and inflation worries are fuelling global gold prices, raising the prospect of gold breaching $3,400 per ounce. In contrast, India's gold policies remain cautious and restrictive. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads State-led push triggers surge in gold demand Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Behind the numbers: a two-decade build-up India's gold story: rich in culture, light on policy Markets react to trade talks and tariffs Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Inflation, bonds and the dollar Can gold really hit $3,400? China keeps buying gold Other metals feel the heat China is stepping up its gold game. As trade talks with the US remain uncertain and inflation lingers, Beijing has launched a sweeping financial strategy to shift its economic anchors from the US dollar to physical gold and the strategic shift was highlighted by Alok Jain, founder of Weekend Investing. In a recent post on X, Jain noted, 'China is encouraging citizens to hold more gold.' He added, 'They know gold has a future,' contrasting China's approach with India's restrictive stance on gold loans and high import March 2025, China took a decisive step. The China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission (CBIRC) issued Directive No. 2025-03, which requires all insurance companies to invest at least 1% of their assets — over ¥4.5 trillion — into physical enable this, insurers were granted access to the Shanghai Futures Exchange (SHFE), bypassing global trading platforms. This marks the first time insurance firms have been given such direct entry, according to moves build on a 2024 campaign by the People's Bank of China urging citizens to buy physical gold, which led to a 34% increase in national gold consumption gold accumulation isn't new. Since 2000, it has grown official gold reserves from 395 tonnes to over 2,200 tonnes. But some analysts believe Beijing holds more than 5,000 tonnes, much of it acquired through discreet, off-market aim? Reduce dependence on the US dollar and cushion the economy against geopolitical shocks. And with global uncertainty rising, the plan seems to be gaining by contrast, remains heavily gold-dependent at the household level but lacks a coordinated national gold policy. Indian families, especially women, collectively hold more than 25,000 tonnes of gold — mostly in the form of high import duties and restrictions on gold-backed lending limit broader financial leverage. While the cultural value of gold is high, its strategic utility remains untapped at the policy Tuesday morning, MCX Gold August contracts rose 0.72% to ₹96,475 per 10 grams, reflecting cautious optimism surrounding US-China trade talks in reported that US President Donald Trump had said his administration was "doing well" in the negotiations and received "positive reports from the talks".But the details remain vague. A new framework agreement is in place, building on last month's Geneva discussions, yet both Trump and President Xi Jinping have yet to approve it.'Any positive developments from the talks could provide headwinds for gold prices, while a stalemate in talks is likely to renew the precious metal's appeal,' said Zain Vawda, market analyst at are also eyeing the US Consumer Price Index (CPI) data, due later today. Inflation is expected to stay sticky. A weaker dollar ahead of the data release has already helped lift Kamboj, Vice President of India Bullion and Jewellers Association, said, 'Market participants are closely monitoring the ongoing US-China trade negotiations taking place in London, alongside key inflation data set to be released this week in both India and the US.'She added, 'Attention is also on the upcoming long-term bond auction in the US on Thursday; a weak response could spark renewed interest in gold at lower price levels.'Gold futures rose to $3,350.10 per ounce on Wednesday, while spot gold reached $3,329.70. Analysts see potential for further gains if inflation continues and trade talks stall.'If it does not [fall], then a run toward the $3,400/oz level and beyond starts to look like a real possibility,' said a US court ruling has kept Trump-era tariffs in place. These "liberation day" tariffs, set to kick in by early July, could add to inflation pressures and drive further interest in May, the People's Bank of China added 60,000 troy ounces of gold to its reserves. This marks the seventh straight month of additions, pushing total holdings to 73.83 million troy steady accumulation is a key reason why global gold prices may remain elevated in gold gained, silver futures fell 0.9% to $36.328 per ounce. Platinum surged 3.6% to $1,255.65, and copper dropped 1.4% on the London Metal the US, copper futures also declined 2.3% amid concerns over high tariffs and slowing global is back in the spotlight. China is betting big, not just on cultural affinity but on financial strategy. Trade talks, tariffs, and inflation data will shape the path ahead, but one thing is clear: gold is more than tradition now. It's a play on the Jain put it, "They know gold has a future."
Time of India
11-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Why China's going all in on gold and India isn't, says Financial adviser
China is stepping up its gold game. As trade talks with the US remain uncertain and inflation lingers, Beijing has launched a sweeping financial strategy to shift its economic anchors from the US dollar to physical gold and the yuan. This strategic shift was highlighted by Alok Jain, founder of Weekend Investing. In a recent post on X, Jain noted, 'China is encouraging citizens to hold more gold.' He added, 'They know gold has a future,' contrasting China's approach with India's restrictive stance on gold loans and high import duties. — WeekendInvestng (@WeekendInvestng) State-led push triggers surge in gold demand In March 2025, China took a decisive step. The China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission (CBIRC) issued Directive No. 2025-03, which requires all insurance companies to invest at least 1% of their assets — over ¥4.5 trillion — into physical gold. To enable this, insurers were granted access to the Shanghai Futures Exchange (SHFE), bypassing global trading platforms. This marks the first time insurance firms have been given such direct entry, according to SHFE. Live Events These moves build on a 2024 campaign by the People's Bank of China urging citizens to buy physical gold, which led to a 34% increase in national gold consumption year-on-year. Behind the numbers: a two-decade build-up China's gold accumulation isn't new. Since 2000, it has grown official gold reserves from 395 tonnes to over 2,200 tonnes. But some analysts believe Beijing holds more than 5,000 tonnes, much of it acquired through discreet, off-market deals. The aim? Reduce dependence on the US dollar and cushion the economy against geopolitical shocks. And with global uncertainty rising, the plan seems to be gaining momentum. India's gold story: rich in culture, light on policy India, by contrast, remains heavily gold-dependent at the household level but lacks a coordinated national gold policy. Indian families, especially women, collectively hold more than 25,000 tonnes of gold — mostly in the form of jewellery. But high import duties and restrictions on gold-backed lending limit broader financial leverage. While the cultural value of gold is high, its strategic utility remains untapped at the policy level. Markets react to trade talks and tariffs On Tuesday morning, MCX Gold August contracts rose 0.72% to ₹96,475 per 10 grams, reflecting cautious optimism surrounding US-China trade talks in London. Reuters reported that US President Donald Trump had said his administration was "doing well" in the negotiations and received "positive reports from the talks". But the details remain vague. A new framework agreement is in place, building on last month's Geneva discussions, yet both Trump and President Xi Jinping have yet to approve it. 'Any positive developments from the talks could provide headwinds for gold prices, while a stalemate in talks is likely to renew the precious metal's appeal,' said Zain Vawda, market analyst at OANDA. Inflation, bonds and the dollar Investors are also eyeing the US Consumer Price Index (CPI) data, due later today. Inflation is expected to stay sticky. A weaker dollar ahead of the data release has already helped lift gold. Aksha Kamboj, Vice President of India Bullion and Jewellers Association, said, 'Market participants are closely monitoring the ongoing US-China trade negotiations taking place in London, alongside key inflation data set to be released this week in both India and the US.' She added, 'Attention is also on the upcoming long-term bond auction in the US on Thursday; a weak response could spark renewed interest in gold at lower price levels.' Can gold really hit $3,400? Gold futures rose to $3,350.10 per ounce on Wednesday, while spot gold reached $3,329.70. Analysts see potential for further gains if inflation continues and trade talks stall. 'If it does not [fall], then a run toward the $3,400/oz level and beyond starts to look like a real possibility,' said Vawda. Meanwhile, a US court ruling has kept Trump-era tariffs in place. These "liberation day" tariffs, set to kick in by early July, could add to inflation pressures and drive further interest in gold. China keeps buying gold In May, the People's Bank of China added 60,000 troy ounces of gold to its reserves. This marks the seventh straight month of additions, pushing total holdings to 73.83 million troy ounces. This steady accumulation is a key reason why global gold prices may remain elevated in 2025. Other metals feel the heat While gold gained, silver futures fell 0.9% to $36.328 per ounce. Platinum surged 3.6% to $1,255.65, and copper dropped 1.4% on the London Metal Exchange. In the US, copper futures also declined 2.3% amid concerns over high tariffs and slowing global demand. Gold is back in the spotlight. China is betting big, not just on cultural affinity but on financial strategy. Trade talks, tariffs, and inflation data will shape the path ahead, but one thing is clear: gold is more than tradition now. It's a play on the future. As Jain put it, "They know gold has a future."
