Daybreak

India's efforts to reform medical education through the National Medical Commission have hit numerous roadblocks. The organization, meant to replace the outdated Medical Council of India, is plagued by vacancies and questionable decisions. Critics are voicing concerns over its lack of coordination and transparency. As it grapples with these challenges, questions arise about whether this initiative can truly bring about the needed change or if it’s facing a more serious crisis.

India's credit card craze might be hitting a bump. With over 100 million cards issued recently, banks are now reining in aggressive strategies. Costly perks like free airport lounge access are being scaled back. A regulatory shift has banks like RBL and SBI Card facing new challenges, pushing them to issue half the number of cards compared to last year. The shift towards co-branded cards indicates a strategic pivot in an evolving market. Tune in to unravel the twists and turns of this financial landscape!

Explore the journey of Selvi and Nisha, two beauticians whose hopes turned to frustration in the gig economy. Once seen as liberating, their experience with Urban Company reveals a troubling dependency on biased ratings and account suspensions. As they grapple with fluctuating incomes, the podcast highlights the urgent need for improved safety and support for women gig workers. Listen in as their stories shed light on the broader struggles faced by women in India's informal workforce.

India's jewellery market is witnessing a dramatic shift as regional brands like Kalyan Jewellers and Malabar Gold challenge Tanishq's long-standing dominance. The podcast delves into how these local players are mastering Tanishq’s business strategies and leveraging geographical preferences to attract customers. It also discusses the evolving marketing landscape, where quick sales triumph over long-term branding efforts. Explore how the dynamics of this competitive arena are changing, paving the way for a new era in the jewellery business.

Unfolding drama surrounds Byju's founder, as allegations arise of attempting to evade a federal court testimony through dubious means. A businessman reveals details of a one-way ticket to Dubai arranged by Raveendran, raising eyebrows about corporate ethics. Meanwhile, the company faces serious financial repercussions following a court ruling on a significant default. Insightful discussions dig into the troubled landscape of EdTech acquisitions and the potential ramifications for the industry's integrity.

Mamaearth is grappling with unprecedented losses after a risky overhaul of its distribution system. The shake-up involved replacing traditional distributors with an in-house sales team, leading to an estimated Rs 70 crore hit in inventory losses. Former distributors claim up to Rs 300 crore worth of unsold stock is now stranded. The podcast sheds light on the emotional toll on ex-distributors, the company’s declining share prices, and the larger implications for the beauty market amidst fierce competition and saturated sales channels.

Parents in India are feeling the pressure of soaring school fees, and many can't afford to pay upfront. Fintech companies are stepping in with zero-cost EMIs, easing financial burdens for middle-class families while boosting cash flow for schools. Industry experts discuss the market's potential, noting a low risk of defaults but highlighting difficulties like market fragmentation. This evolution in financing reflects the growing demand for quality education, despite challenges that fintechs face, such as low profit margins.

Dheeraj Gupta, Co-founder of M-Filterit, shares his expertise in online financial fraud detection. He discusses the alarming rise of digital fraud and the emerging 'Mule-as-a-service' model that empowers cybercriminals. Ordinary people, often from low-income backgrounds, are unwittingly drawn into this dangerous scheme. Gupta also highlights the challenges faced by regulators and law enforcement as they try to combat this sophisticated network, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to keep pace with evolving tactics.

Discover how non-banking financial companies are ramping up borrower surveillance tactics to ensure timely loan repayments. Explore Navi’s aggressive data collection methods, demanding daily access to borrowers' bank statements. Delve into the ethical concerns surrounding such practices and the challenges regulators face. The podcast also touches on the competitive grocery delivery market, highlighting how companies like DMART are adapting to the rise of quick commerce while balancing profitability with growth.

Electric vehicles in India are at a crossroads, much like mobile phones were in the early 2000s. The skepticism surrounding EVs mirrors past doubts about cell phones. Innovative subscription models, like those from JSW MG Motor, are key to making EVs more accessible. The podcast explores how affordable pricing could revolutionize EV adoption, similar to Reliance's impact on mobile communications. It highlights the need for creative solutions to overcome high costs and drive widespread acceptance.