Sets vision to consolidate the preventive footprint of ASCI

During the board meeting that succeeded its 37th annual general meeting, the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) announced the appointment of Saugata Gupta, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Marico Limited, as the new Chairman of the ASCI Board of Governors. Saugata Gupta is well recognised as a dynamic and accomplished industry leader, with several innovative accomplishments to his credit. Saugata Gupta's association with ASCI spans several years; two years on the Board of Governors and four years as a special invitee on the Board of Governors.

Mr. Partha Sinha, President, Response, Bennett Coleman & Company Limited, was elected Vice Chairman, and Mr. Sudhanshu Vats, Deputy Managing Director, Pidilite Industries Ltd., was appointed Honorary Treasurer.

In his role as ASCI's new Chairman, Saugata Gupta sharing his vision, stated, "Leading ASCI at this juncture is a privilege. We are in the midst of an extraordinary opportunity to reimagine what responsible advertising means and how consumers need protection in the digital age. ASCI is at the very forefront of this effort as it collaboratively shapes the industry.

With the advent of the ASCI Academy, we are active architects shaping a more responsible future. Our mission is to instil the principles of self-regulation into the very heart of the creative process. I eagerly look to take further the ambition we have drawn for ourselves. With the support of my board colleagues and ASCI's exceptional team, we are all set to raise the standards of responsible advertising."

Recalling his tenure at ASCI, the outgoing Chairman, NS Rajan said, "Leading ASCI over the past year has been an immensely fulfilling journey. I am proud that, as a collective team, we have strengthened our abilities to be ready for the future. The launch of the ASCI Academy is a significant event that I am sure will yield positive results.

In an environment of rapid technological advancements and shifting consumer expectations, ASCI has remained agile and forward-thinking. The complaints management part is now highly streamlined and efficient, and we are developing significant expertise in digital monitoring.

I have no doubt that Team ASCI will continue to shape policies, drive innovation, and champion causes that are not only important to the industry but also to our society at large.”

In what has been a dynamic year for the self-regulatory organisation, ASCI has undertaken a series of impactful initiatives. One such highlight was the #GetItRight Brand-Influencer Summit, held in February 2023. This event served as a pivotal platform for brands and influencers to collaboratively explore and learn effective strategies for creating trustworthy relationships with each and consumers.

ASCI facilitated an interactive consultation with the Department of Consumer Affairs (DoCA) in Mumbai, a session chaired by Shri Rohit Kumar Singh, Secretary of the Department of Consumer Affairs. The discussion emphasized the critical issue of deceptive practices and their detrimental impact on consumer rights. In addition, ASCI was part of several government consultation groups.

ASCI delivered a diverse array of insightful reports over the year. These included the 'Wielding Influence Nurturing Trust Report,' illuminating the evolving influencer marketing landscape. The 'EdNext study' offered a forward-looking and responsible approach for the EdTech sector. A discussion paper, 'Dark Patterns,' exposed manipulative UI/UX tactics. The 'Misleading Advertisements and Trademarks - A Registration Conundrum' whitepaper uncovered trademark usage to defend misleading claims. ASCI also ventured into the intricate domain of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in advertising, offering a comprehensive whitepaper that explored AI's opportunities, risks, and legal intricacies.

ASCI’s code was updated with guidelines for the education sector, charitable causes, health and financial influencers as well as online deceptive design patterns. ASCI also expanded its definition of celebrities to include social media influencers, in keeping with new trends observed in the advertising industry.

As ASCI sets its sights on the future, it remains steadfast in its commitment to both corrective and preventive action to redefine the landscape of responsible advertising. It aims to do so through dynamic and multi-stakeholder collaborations, as well as technology investments. A proactive approach underscores ASCI's commitment to staying at the forefront of industry regulation, safeguarding the integrity and responsibility of advertising in the years to come.

Zee 24 TAAS is poised to bring viewers its extraordinary event of 'RISE: Marathwada ,' on Saturday - September 30th, 2023, at 4:30 PM.

This program is a tribute to the indomitable spirit of entrepreneurs who are spearheading innovation and development, redefining the business landscape in Marathwada and beyond. It underscores the commitment of both the central and state governments to propel Maharashtra, with a particular focus on the Marathwada region, towards a brighter future.

The industrial growth in Marathwada, especially in Aurangabad, has been instrumental in driving economic prosperity and creating job opportunities. The diverse industries here have also led to improvements in infrastructure and urban development, experiencing innovative solutions that address local requirements while also appealing to global markets. 'RISE: Marathwada ' has been a crucible of ideas and insights, featuring enlightening discussions led by industry luminaries and policymakers on pivotal subjects like infrastructure development, real estate growth, agriculture, and more.

The 'RISE: Marathwada ' was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including Hon. Bhagwat Karad, Minister of State for Finance, Government of India, and Hon. Uday Samant, Minister of Industries, Government of Maharashtra, Hon. Atul Save, Minister of Housing, Govt of Maharashtra, Hon. Sandipan Bhumare, Minister of Employment Guarantee & Horticulture, Govt of Maharashtra, who shared their valuable insights and visions for the region's development. Hon. Bhagwat Karad, Minister of State for Finance, Government of India, highlighted, "The Indian government is setting ambitious goals for the advancement of the Maharashtra state, with a special focus on the Marathwada region." Additionally, Hon. Uday Samant, Minister of Industries, Government of Maharashtra, expressed the desire for the industrial development of Maharashtra to be conducted in a cost-effective manner across all regions of the state.

Highlighting the success of the event, Nilesh Khare, Editor of Zee24 TAAS, highlighted, “Hosting the 'RISE: Marathwada' event in Aurangabad, a city where historical charm harmoniously coexists with industrial advancement, emphasizes its role as a vibrant center for forward-thinking entrepreneurs. We are really thrilled by the overwhelming response to the Marathwada Edition. We are deeply grateful to our viewers and partners for their unwavering support in making this event a grand success."

"At Zee Media Corporation Limited, we are committed to being a catalyst for positive change. 'RISE: Marathwada' exemplifies our dedication to showcasing the transformative power of entrepreneurship and regional development," added Abhay Ojha, CEO of Zee Media Corporation Limited.

Co-presented by MIDC, the 'RISE: Marathwada' was powered by Rajasthani Multistate Co-Operative Credit Society Ltd and its associate sponsors were Dr. Chate Homeopathy & E Agrocare Machineries & Equipment Pvt Ltd.

Zee Media Corporation Ltd, one of India's leading media companies, has a strong presence in the news and regional genres, with 16 news channels in seven different languages, reaching more than 528+ million viewers through its linear and digital properties.

The campus brings together 18 WPP agencies and 2,000 collaborators into one creative and inspiring space in Levallois-Perret

WPP opened the doors of its new campus in the northwest of Paris. The new space demonstrates WPP’s ongoing commitment to the French market and its investment in creative talent, bringing 2,000 people under one roof.

The campus is located in the Levallois-Perret neighbourhood, an area that is home to an increasing number of international businesses. The site also carries a rich heritage of French innovation, once serving as the location for the Clément-Bayard factory, which Citroën acquired in the early 1920s to produce the iconic 2CV.

An innovative hub dedicated to collaboration and creativity

The WPP Paris Campus has been designed to accommodate evolving work styles and promote innovation. It offers state-of-the-art flexible spaces, 30% of which are shared environments that encourage people to come together and share ideas, allowing creativity to flourish.

The campus features a double-height auditorium, two restaurants, 2,600m2 of gardens and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Paris, complete with its own honeybee colony. The site selection, design and interiors were led by WPP company BDG architecture + design.

Inspired by WPP Stream – WPP’s ‘unconference’ which brings together global leaders in marketing, technology and media – the campus will regularly hold events designed to inspire creative thinking, from hosting guest speakers and art installations to partner and community events.

Attending the launch event of the new space, Mark Read, CEO of WPP, said: "Paris is globally renowned as a centre of creative excellence and tech innovation. The opening of our new campus in the city demonstrates our ambition in France and the importance of the market to WPP. It will act as a hub for the best of WPP’s expertise and resources – from our industry-leading AI capabilities and world-class media business to our award-winning creative work – and enable collaboration between our agencies. The campus reflects our investment in our people and technology by providing modern, inspirational workspaces that harness the power of our creativity for the benefit of our clients."

Sustainability at the heart of the renovation

In recognition of the environmentally conscious design of the Paris Campus, and in line with WPP's ambition to achieve net zero emissions by 2025, the building has been certified with the international BREEAM accreditation and has received an ‘Excellent’ rating.

By re-using the existing building's concrete structure, CO2 emissions have been reduced by up to 30%. In addition, the campus is connected to a heat network which supplies more than 50% renewable and recovered energy sources, as well as a cooling network resulting in a 35% reduction in electricity consumption and a 50% reduction in CO2 emissions.

Nominated in the “Best Feature Film'’, “Best Drama Series”, “Best Non-Scripted Entertainment”, “Best Actress in a Leading Role” and "Best Actress in a Supporting Role” categories

On the heels of two nominations at the coveted International Emmys®, Netflix India received another set of nominations at the prestigious Asian Academy Creative Awards 2023. The nominations include "Best Actress in a Leading Role" for Rajshri Deshpande, who delivered a widely acclaimed performance as the formidable Neelam Krishnamoorthy in the series - Trial By Fire which also received a “Best Drama Series'' nod. The International Emmy® nominee Shefali Shah was chosen as the Indian selection for "Best Actress in a Supporting Role", for her captivating performance of Shamshunissa in the dark-comedy, Darlings. The docu-series The Romantics and the Netflix original anthology Lust Stories 2 were also nominated for “Best Non-Scripted Entertainment'' and “Best Feature Film'’ respectively.

Konkona Sen Sharma, Director of Lust Stories 2 - ‘Mirror’, shares her excitement, "I'm thrilled that Lust Stories 2 - Mirror has received a nomination from the Asian Academy Creative Awards. This anthology film explores the complexities of modern relationships, and it was a project very very close to my heart. It brings together a stellar cast and an incredibly talented crew. I'm grateful to Netflix, RSVP and Flying Unicorn for their unwavering support in bringing in the creation of this narrative."

Rajshri Deshpande was elated; saying, "Being nominated at the Asian Academy Creative Awards is humbling. It has been a privilege to depict Mrs. Neelam Krishnamoorthy on-screen. I’m glad to have been chosen for this story. This nomination speaks for our hard work and the collective effort we’ve poured into making this series. I'm deeply appreciative of my creators- Prashant and Kevin, Netflix, Endemol Shine and House of Talkies for backing important stories like that of the Uphaar Cinema tragedy and the struggle of the Krishnamoorthy’s with Trial By Fire."

Shefali Shah celebrates her second consecutive nomination this week after her International Emmy nod, shares her excitement, "I am overjoyed and filled with gratitude for all those who have showered so much love for my work. This nomination speaks volumes about the passion and dedication that went into creating Darlings. I'm thankful to Netflix, Red Chillies Entertainment and Eternal Sunshine, Jasmeet and the entire cast and crew for their support, and I can't wait for it to unfold at the awards night!"

Showrunner Prashant Nair spoke of the AACA nomination sharing, “Trial By Fire was a labor of love for all involved and a story of paramount importance that needed to be told. I believe that a story chooses its makers and creating Trial by Fire alongside Kevin (Luperchio) as well as our partners at Netflix, Endemol Shine India and House of Talkies has been nothing short of an extraordinary experience. On behalf of the entire team, we are grateful for the nomination and to be recognized on an Asia-Pacific level and stay indebted to the Krishnamoorthy’s for entrusting us with their story.”

Director of Romantics, Smriti Mundhra shares, "This is an absolute surprise and honor. The best content in the world is coming from Asia and it is especially meaningful to be recognized by my peers from the East. Thank you to Yash Raj Films and Netflix for supporting The Romantics, and congrats to all the other winners from India and beyond."

These nominations serve as a testament to the exceptional creative talent in India, reflecting the richness of its local entertainment landscape.

Below is the list of Netflix nominations:

BEST FEATURE FILM
Lust Stories 2 - Mirror - Konkona Sen Sharma
RSVP Movies

BEST ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE
Rajshri Deshpande - Trial By Fire
Endemol Shine, House of Talkies

BEST ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
Shefali Shah - Darlings
Red Chillies Entertainment

BEST DRAMA SERIES
Trial By Fire
Endemol Shine, House of Talkies

BEST NON-SCRIPTED ENTERTAINMENT
The Romantics
Yash Raj Films

Engaging ‘Duologue’ yields out of box solutions for mitigating India’s healthcare challenge.

Synopsis: 'Duologue with Barun Das’, among the most awarded and coveted shows on news television, unveils a unique format, fostering candid conversations that delve deep into ideas, theories, and experiences beyond the obvious. While 'Duologue with Barun Das feat. Dr. Devi Shetty' airs at 10 pm tomorrow on News9 Live, during the day the digital news stream will host special programming, featuring a variety of shows on heart health.

News9 Live, India’s pioneering 24/7 digital exclusive news stream, is poised to conclude its intellectually stimulating 'Duologue with Barun Das' Season 01 series with an unforgettable finale featuring Dr. Devi Shetty, on World Heart Day, September 29th, at 10 PM, accessible via connected TVs.

In a departure from conventional interview formats, ‘Duologue with Barun Das’ reveals an unseen facet of Dr. Shetty’s persona during a candid tête-à-tête with show’s host, Mr. Barun Das, the MD and CEO of TV9 Network. The Devi Shetty episode kicks off with a profound exploration of empathy to soon evolve into a thought-provoking discourse on the intricate calculus of happiness.

‘Duologue with Barun Das’ sets the tone to address India's heart health crisis with a focus on innovative solutions.

When the show host, Barun Das proposed the concept of incentivizing fitness to stimulate the health sector, Dr. Devi Shetty responded in affirmation. He said, “India stands on the verge of an extraordinary achievement – the liberation of healthcare from affluence. This transformative objective is not a distant dream but an attainable reality within the next five years.”

Furthermore, the host leads the conversation transcending the physical aspects of heart health, delving into the emotional and mental well-being of individuals.

Reflecting on his experience, Dr. Devi Shetty said, “Duologue with Barun Das is one of the most memorable experiences in my life. I thoroughly enjoyed it.”

News9 Live's impressive undertaking for 'World Heart Day' includes a special programming initiative that focuses on heart health, emerging challenges, and cutting-edge technology diagnostics. All shows premiere via connected TVs and later YouTube.

The special programming window on India’s first and only 24x7 digital English news service includes:

• The World Heart Day lineup kicks off with the ‘Heart Health Show’ at 11 AM.

• At 1 PM, ‘Heart Emerging Challenges’ takes centre stage.

• The day continues with a groundbreaking program at 6 PM and 9 PM, ‘Heart Technology-Diagnostics’.

Don't miss the opportunity to be part of this enlightening and engaging World Heart Day programming on News9 Live. Tune in via your connected TVs on September 29th or catch the premieres on our YouTube channel. Join the season finale and explore the many facets of heart health and cap off the evening with an unforgettable Duologue featuring Barun Das and Dr. Devi Shetty.