Case Study Analysis : The iPhone in South Korea

Introduction

The enthusiasm for the IPhone launch in 2007 seemed universal. However, Apple decided to not enter the South Korean market until 2008 as the market requires special attention since many other failed before due to a lack of research and the wrong strategy. The current paper discusses the implications of the South Korean market conditions and its environmental factors in regard to the special market requirements in context to the entry mode and marketing mix for a successful launch of the IPhone. The competitive forces in the market environment force Apple to clearly position its product and be aware of its micro-environment. South Korea is a ‘Newly Industrialised Economy’ (Lasserre, 2007) and ‘Emerging Market’ (Kotabe and Helsen, 2008) wherefore a profound research in regard on the macro-environment is substantial to identify opportunities and threats. This paper considers these environmental opportunities and threats and puts them in relation to Apple’s global product strategy in regard to the Korean customers needs and wants by adapting its marketing mix accordingly. The marketing mix may be extended by Booms and Bitner’s (1981) additional three Ps: participants, physical evidence and process but their framework will not be part of this report. Moreover, determinants of the possible monitoring process of the success are outlined in relation to the 4 P’s.

1. Competitive Forces

Before entering the South Korean market, Apple needs to critically evaluate the competitive forces that have made its business environment more complex in recent years, by taking into account Porter’s five forces (exhibit 1).1 The threat of new entrants seems to be the biggest threat for iPhone because as South Koreans are most likely to use mobile phones with the latest technology and features, they are more likely to switch phones. Thus, the customer switching costs and their brand loyalty are very low, which makes it easier for new entrants to compete. Moreover, the Korean Communications Commission has now opened this industry (Ramstad et al, 2009), which makes it easier for foreign companies to enter the market. Consequently, this will allow increasing competition. Another threat for the iPhone is the fact that South Koreans are very quick in embracing new technology. Having done so, local companies will be able to compete with iPhone.

The threat of substitutes is linked with the threat of new entrants because their ability to take up the latest technology might lead to cheaper substitutes, and the costs of switching to substitutes seem to be low in South Korea. Considering the population of South Korea of 48 million people compared to phone suppliers,

the bargaining power of buyers seems to be low. However, this is compensated by low costs to switch suppliers. Moreover, Apple might consider selling iPhone through a local phone carrier, which is discussed later on. As the South Korean phone network is driven by an oligopoly of three telecom organizations, the concentration of iPhone’s direct buyers is quite high. Thus, the bargaining power of buyers is also a threat Apple has to analyse. As the iPhone’s production settings are mainly based in China, the bargaining power of

suppliers is a less important threat for the company when launching the iPhone in South Korea.

The intensity of rivalry is also a great threat for iPhone. Protection of local mobile phone manufacturers helped home grown companies like Samsung and LG to sell together about 90% of mobile phones in the country (Ramstad et al, 2009). With the opening up of the industry, competition will increase and prices become more competitive. However, the low switching costs of consumers as well as a differentiated product might be an advantage for iPhone when entering the market.

2. Implications for the success of the iPhone in South Korea

The South Korean market conditions and its environment require special advertence regarding the success of launching iPhone. In order to make a statement about implications for iPhone’s success, the PEST analysis is

applied for analysing its micro-environment in South Korea. South Korea is characterized by a constitutional democracy consisting of executive, legislative and judicial branches. The country opened up many trade barriers in the last decades, and entered many international organisations such as WTO, OECD, UN etc. (CIA, 2008). These are positive political factors for the launch of iPhone. However, the political situation of its neighbouring country North Korea is of high concern, particularly regarding its nuclear tests which are a threat to the country, and therefore might have negative implications.

South Korea belongs to the twenty largest world economies.2 The economical growth was encouraged by close ties between government and business sectors through direct credit and import restrictions (CIA, 2008).3 The South Korean economy is highly concentrated on electronic and technological development. The mobile phone market is almost saturated. The phone network is driven by a clear oligopoly of three telecom organisations (SK Telecom, KTF, LG Telecom) which provides clear restrictions for market entries.4 The South Korean culture is characterised by its high homogeneity.5 Koreans strive for being up-to-date, particularly regarding latest fashion and technology, and moreover inherit big brand awareness as status symbols. Also South Korea’s demographical factors6 are positive for the launch of iPhone, as the product suits a majority of the population, but in return it also portrays a threat, as the product must tick all boxes of the high expectations towards mobile phones.

The technological environment in South Korea is of high standard and is substantial for the mobile phone industry, which accounts for one of the highest mobile phone penetration rates in the world.7 Moreover, the CIA (2008) points out the outstanding telecommunication networks and technologies, achieving the high standard required and appreciated by the South Korean population and its focus on innovation. Therefore, it is essential to offer a product which can keep up with the high standard of the market in order to be successful. To sum up, the South Korean market holds a big potential for the introduction of iPhone by

means of the well-being of the economic and financial environment, its stable legal and political situation and a big group of potential customers.8 Nevertheless, there are potential risks and obstacles of entering the market, which have to be taken into consideration, such as the almost saturated mobile phone market, an unstable situation in North Korea and the highly competitive environment, creating pressure in terms of market entry, pricing and technological development.

3. Aspects to be considered before entering the market

Besides the market entry strategy and marketing mix, iPhone should also consider the external factors influencing the choice of entry mode and time of entering the South Korean market. In respect to the external factors, socio-cultural distance between home and host country, country risk/demand uncertainty, market size and growth, direct and indirect trade barriers and intensity of competition are vital factors to be taken into account by iPhone (Hollensen, 2007). Even if South Korea is home to leading hardware manufacturers, a thriving computergame industry and savvy technology consumers, Koreans are still happy to carry a mobile

phone and an MP3 player as separate devices instead of using a “one-product-does-all” device, and one way for iPhone to outrun this gap regarding culture might be to strongly rely on Koreans avidity for the “latest and greatest” trends in mobile phone technology and their generally stable and large incomes. The Self-Reference Criterion can be a powerful negative force in global business (Keegan et al, 2008), and iPhone should not neglect it, otherwise their market entry could be a failure. South Korea, a market dominated by two major players, Samsung and LG, carries a demand uncertainty that should likewise be considered before launching the product. Regarding the market size and growth, the perspectives seem encouraging with a GDP per capita of $28,100, GDP – real growth rate 2.3% and an unemployment rate of only 3% for South Korea in 2008. (CIA, 2009). The Korean government raised trade barriers on smart phones

to protect domestic manufacturers and this probably represents iPhone’s major constraint for entering the market. The strategy used by the government made Samsung and LG the second and third largest makers of cellphones by units in the world and it helped the country to develop one of the broadest markets for cellphones. So, iPhone should consider facing a hard strife, and tailor the necessary strategies in order to win an important market share in the market. One of the main questions for iPhone is when to enter the South Korean market. The answer may be related and dependent on Korea’s Communication Commission that decided only in late 2008 to open its home market in April 2009 to advanced cellular phones using foreign

platforms. A rule set in 2005 forced advanced cell-phone devices to use Korea's Wireless Internet Platform for Interoperability. The move effectively stopped foreign wireless handsets, such as those from Apple entering their market . Another issue that iPhone has to take into consideration is the legal environment that may seriously delay their entry to the South Korean market. There are a set of regulatory hurdles regarding the location-based services that iPhone provides for its customers (e.g. maps, direction finders) and that are subject to government permission. As a last aspect that iPhone might consider before entering the South Korean market is the iPhone clones that, in case these are not stopped from popping in the market, will

considerably depress its expected sales, as it happened in China.

4. Marketing Mix

After performing a SWOT analysis (exhibit 2), Apple will be able to draw a marketing plan. The marketing mix elements will be discussed below to decide on how to approach the iPhone’s entry into the South Korean market. The first step Apple need to pay attention to is its global product strategy. Should the

company aim for a standardized9 or adapted product strategy? Adaptation of the iPhone means considering differences in customers’ needs in South Korea. Consequently, “appropriate changes are made to match local market conditions” (Kotabe et al, 2008, p.353). Apple also has to consider legal conditions in South Korea such as taxation. Adapting the iPhone to local needs will increase customer satisfaction but also leads to higher production costs. The market is not only characterized by protection of local phone manufacturers (Ramstad et al, 2009), but Apple must also carefully consider technological issues next to South Koreas’unique environmental and marketplace conditions.10 Consequently, Apple should consider the product adaptation approach when entering South Korea, taking into account localconditions and wants in order to boost customer satisfaction, and hence increase sales. They might modify the iPhone by augmenting the core product and product attributes with localized support features that cater local market conditions.11

Having made the decision about its global product strategy, Apple has to decide on whether to enter South Korea with an advanced version of the iPhone before launching it anywhere else. As a consequence of stiff local competition, time might be a key success factor for Apple when entering South Korea. The market is almost saturated, and Apple will enter it late because it has already embraced 3G technology. As South Korean consumers are quite tech-savvy and most likely to use mobile phones with latest technology and new features, they are very likely to switch mobile phones. Consequently, entering the market with an advanced version of iPhone might create a competitive advantage for Apple and probably results in gaining market share more quickly. In terms of global pricing, Apple follows a price standardization policy.12 Keegan et al (2008) differ between three alternative global pricing policies: extension/ethnocentric, adaptation/polycentric and geocentric.13 Exhibit 3 discusses the ethnocentric/standardization and polycentric/differentiation pricing

policies, which Apple might consider when launching iPhone in South Korea. The more flexible geocentric approach recognizes that several factors are relevant to pricing decisions: “local costs, income levels, competition, and the local marketing strategy” while price is integrated with other elements of the marketing program. “Local costs plus a return on invested capital [ROI] and personnel fix the price floor for the long term” (Keegan et al, 2008, p.382). In the short term, Apple might set the price less than its costs plus ROI in order to penetrate the market and gain market share. Hence, the geocentric approach lends itself to global competitive advantage because prices support “global strategy objectives rather than the objective of maximizing performance in a single country” (Keegan et al, 2008, p.382). Kotler et al (2008) differ between two global pricing strategies/objectives: market skimming/financial objectives (Appendix B) and penetration pricing/nonfinancial objectives. Penetration pricing may be used by Apple to gain a market position in South Korea by setting a low price, and hence attracting a large number of buyers. Apple might consider penetration pricing due to the intensive local competition from Samsung and LG in South Korea whose

selling price for phones is almost twice as high as it is outside the country.14 Exhibit 4 shows the pricing of selected Samsung mobile phones in South Korea. Moreover, in 2009, the South Korean GDP per capita at nominal values (US$17,074) and GDP at PPP per capita (Intl. $27,938) was far behind the USA’s (US$45,934, Intl. $45.938) (IMF, 2010). Apple should consider the lower income levels of its local consumer when setting a price, but they have to avoid setting the price for iPhone so low that consumers lose faith in the product’s quality (Hollensen, 2010). Summarizing the discussion above, iPhone is advised to respond to competitive and market conditions, and should consider the geocentric approach in connection with penetration pricing when entering South Korea, because this will enable Apple to quickly penetrate the

market and gain market share from its strong local competitors in the short term, and lends global competitive advantage while Apple’s global strategic objectives are supported rather than the objective of maximizing performance only in South Korea.15 Having gained a stable market share in the country, local costs plus ROI will characterize the iPhone’s price in the long-term. Regarding its promotional strategy, Apple has to make three decisions: How to position the iPhone in South Korea? Which media to use for communicating the message? Building up a standardized or adapted promotion? Having identified the target audience (Appendix B), Apple can now determine the communication objectives and design a message. How should the company position16 the iPhone in South Korea? As South Korean mobile phone users appreciate fashion combined with function, Apple should position iPhone in South Korea on the basis of

performance/technology and design while differentiating it from competitors. Nevertheless, Apple is advised to refrain from promoting iPhone as a “blue ocean” product because both Samsung’s and LG’s strategy of creating blue ocean products and offering these phones at high prices failed (Ramstad et al, 2009). Therefore, Apple should learn from its competitors and position iPhone as an inspiring product that is useful and ahead of consumers’ expectations instead of narrowing the market into unprofitable niches. Apple must now select channels of communication. Kotler et al (2008) differ between personal18 and nonpersonal communication channels. Apple might decide to use nonpersonal communication channels such as print media (newspapers) and broadcast media (television) to reach as many consumers as possible. Although advertising and public relations within the marketing communications mix are more expensive than other tools, especially PR creates awareness and interest in iPhone before its launch. An original but tasteful TV campaign, that pays particular attention to iPhone’s performance and design features, will finally lead to desire and action (buying the iPhone) when iPhone is launched. Especially opinion leaders will be affected by this communication. They will carry messages to people who are less exposed to media, so that finally personal communication will be stimulated through word-of-mouth (Kotler et al, 2008). Furthermore, it has to be discussed whether to standardize or adapt Apple’s promotional strategy. Because “advertising is based largely on language and images, it is mostly influenced by the sociocultural behaviour of consumers” in South Korea.19 As iPhone has no market share in South Korea yet and is therefore an unknown product, the company is advised to react to the market, and adapt its advertising in a way that emphasizes iPhone’s

performance and design features. Also language has to be adapted. Consequently, the initial high spending on its promotion strategy will pay off in the long-term because Apple’s global strategic objectives are supported. Considering iPhone’s distribution strategy, Apple has now to decide on how to enter the

South Korean market (Appendix B). Lasserre (2007) describes four entry modes: Joint Venture, acquisition, agreements such as franchising, licensing or distributor contracts and direct entry. The choice on entering the market is based on a combination of ownership dimension/level of control and investment intensity (exhibit 5). Exhibit 6 discusses direct entry, acquisition and Joint Venture, which Apple might consider when launching the iPhone in South Korea. However, the most suitable entry mode for iPhone into South Korea seems to be a distribution contract with a local phone carrier. A distribution contract requires fewer investments but might lead to a conflict of interests that emerge when sales of iPhone reach a certain level.20 Especially when the country is risky and characterized by stiff competition, Apple might want to test the market without committing too many resources upfront. Hence, a distribution contract will be the most

suitable solution for entering the market quickly.21 Having analyzed consumer needs and set channel objectives, the company might now make a decision on the number of channel members. Kotler et al (2008) differ between three strategies: intensive, exclusive and selective distribution. Exhibit 7 discusses intensive and

exclusive distribution. Due to their disadvantages, Apple should rather consider selective distribution, which means using “more than one but fewer than all of the intermediaries who are willing to carry” (Kotler et al, 2008, p.325) the iPhone. This will allow Apple to “develop good working relationships with selected channel members and expect a better-than-average selling effort” (Kotler et al, 2008, p.325). Moreover, by using selective distribution, the market will be more covered with iPhone compared to exclusive distribution, and it will give the company more control over prices and promotion than intensive distribution does. Summarizing the discussion above, Apple is advised to sign distribution contracts with approximately two to three phone carriers in South Korea which enables to enter the market profitable and successful.

5. Monitoring

The success of Apple’s market entry depends on its concrete goals and objectives. These will influence marketing performance measures and standards. Regarding its product strategy, possible market performance measures will be numbers of sales of its advanced model compared to other markets in which the iPhone was launched and compared to competitors (so far information available), sales growth rate within a certain time, market share gained after a certain time, percentage of total profits, return on

investment, and by the monitoring criteria listed by Sargeant and West (2001):

 the actual sales achieved against the budget,

 the actual costs incurred against those budgeted,

 the overall strategic direction that the organisation is taking – i.e. will the overall

corporate objectives be achieved in a manner commensurate with the organisation's

mission?

In terms of iPhone’s promotion strategy in South Korea, possible performance measures will be the advertising effectiveness like the awareness level achieved, cost per contact with target audience, sales per territory relative to its potential. Measures to control the performance of iPhone’s pricing strategy will be the response time of competitors to iPhone’s selling price, margin structure relative to marketing expenses,

margins relative to channel member performance. Regarding iPhone’s distribution strategy, possible market performance measures will be sales, expenses and contribution margin of Apple’s distribution contracts, percentage of stores carrying the iPhone/market coverage, sales relative to market potential of each phone

carrier, percentage of on-time delivery, expense-to-sales ration of each partner, order cycle performance of each carrier (Hollensen, 2010). If nothing else, the success of iPhone’s market entry can also be measured by behavioural control such as reactions about the iPhone launch in newspapers etc.

Conclusion

Once IPhone has evaluated the forces affecting competition in the market, the political, economic, socio-cultural and technological factors with significant implications for them, as well as other external factors influencing the entry mode and queries that might come up after entering the Korean market, then the plan of action can be shaped and the appropriate strategies in terms of product, price, place and promotion formulated. Relative pros and cons of any of the strategies that have to be taken into consideration have been broadly discussed in this paper. Taking into account all the aspects debated, IPhone’s launch in South Korea will be profitable and successful when :

· Apple adapts iPhone to local market condition and customer wants to a certain

amount, and introduces an advanced version of its product,

· chooses a geocentric pricing approach while penetrating the market with lower prices

compared to competitors in the short term,

· promotes the iPhone through PR before launching, and through an adapted TV

campaign at the time of launch while emphasizing on the product’s performance and

design,

· distributing the iPhone through two to three selected local phone carriers.

To which extend the iPhone’s entry into the South Korean market has been successful can be monitored by regular control of output, like profits, sales figures and expenditures as well as by behavioural controls.

Appendix B

Additional information question 2

According to Lasserre (2007), South Korea can be categorised as a Newly Industrialised  Economy holding the following market characteristics: The market growth is high, the size is medium to high, the segmentation is an established middle class and a diversity of segments, customer’s value product differentiation and  service, the distribution is characterised by pull logistics and beginning of mass retailing, and the competition is deregulated, active and diverse.

The PEST analysis might be extended by environmental and legal factors to PESTLE analysis to additionally analyse iPhone’s macro-environment in South Korea. Environmental factors such as global warming, pollution, energy consumption or waste regulations are in this case of less importance. South Korea’s legal system is a combination of continental European civil law, Anglo- American law, and Chinese classical thought (CIA, 2008). This allows Apple to operate in a secure legal environment which is substantial for the market entry.

Additional information question 4: global pricing strategy/objective market skimming Market skimming might be used by Apple to achieve financial goals such as return on investment when a high price is set to skim maximum revenues from the top end of the market so that the company makes fewer but more profitable sales in a short term. A great disadvantage of this approach is that due to Apple’s small market share in South Korea, it is unlikely that the company will bear up against local competitors like Samsung and LG.

Building a premium position also requires enough resources for promotion etc. as well as visible local presence of Apple in South Korea. Market skimming might also lead to grey markets when they sell the iPhone more cheaply in other countries (Hollensen, 2010).

Additional information question 4: iPhone’s target audience Usually, Apple’s primary customer targets are middle-upper income professionals who use the iPhone to coordinate their busy schedules and communicate with colleagues, friends and family. Its secondary customer target market consists of high school, college and graduate students who need a portable multifunctional device. Additionally, the South Korean target market is also characterized by its tech-savvy phone users who might use the iPhone as a status symbol.

Additional information question 4: iPhone’s distribution strategy

First of all, Apple should follow the network perspective, which means that the company makes use of a business network for internationalization and especially when expanding into the South Korean market because through the relationship of its domestic network, Apple has gained experience and improved knowledge, which can be used as bridges to networks in South Korea.

Interview with Fabrice Grinda - Co CEO – Olx Inc

Source: Day In Day Out 

Fabrice Grinda - Co CEO – Olx Inc

What according to you is classifieds?

Classifieds are a form of (usually text based) advertising that allows individuals and companies to solicit sales for products and services. They appear online and offline and can be free or paid for. Traditionally they have been print ads in newspapers, but are now moving online to specialized sites like Monster or general sites like OLX

Reasons which prompted you to set up a classifieds site?

I left my previous company, Zingy (www.zingy.com) in November 2005. As I started looking for business ideas, I notice the tremendous value that Craigslist was bringing to consumers in the US market. It was bringing classifieds to the masses by allowing everyone to find roommates, baby sitters, couches, etc. for free. I also noticed that outside of the US the classifieds markets were still dominated by the newspapers who charged an arm and a leg to post.

It struck me that there was a tremendous opportunity to bring free classifieds to the rest of the world and thus provide a great public service to local communities. We took the basic concept from Craigslist – simple, local, free – and improved upon it and localized it for each country.

What is Olx’s strength with respect to the global scene and specifically India?

We have built a great product with differentiated features:

A great mobile site accessible at http://mobile.olx.com

A nice Ajax Wysiwyg editor to have rich colorful listings without having to have knowledge of Html.

- We support embedded pictures and videos.

- You can display your listings on Facebook.

- One can track multiple listings through “my olx”

Specifically for India, we have all the main regions and cities covered and we will be launching our Hindi version in the first quarter of 2008.

What do you predict with respect to the growth and size of this industry in the Indian context?

Free classifieds will grow the market tremendously as people start posting classifieds for things they would never pay for in a newspaper: roommates, baby sitters, dog walkers, caterers, dates, etc.

How much traffic, and how big a registered database do you have in India. How fast is it growing?

We get 800,000 visits per month in India which is double what we had a few months ago.

Primary hurdles for a classifieds site?.

People who list need to get replies. People who are looking for something need to see ads for what they are looking for. It sounds simple but it’s hard to implement. When you start the site is empty and you have no traffic so getting traction requires a lot of work.

Once you have traction, the main problem for free sites become spam and scams.

User experience is very important, what are the initiatives Olx has taken to better this.

We keep testing new features and designs to continuously improve the user experience. Over the past 12 months we completely redesigned the site. A few things we changed:

• Ggreatly simplified the posting process.
• We put pictures in the listing results page which decreases page views since visiting that specific page is not required anymore but improves usability.

• We put 50 ads in the listing results page as opposed to 10 or 20. This again decrease pageviews but is more convenient to users.

We are in the process of introducing filters on the listing results pages which are currently only live in India and the Phillipenes right now.

Steps taken to take care of fraud, multiple listings, inaccurate data etc.

Spam and scams are extremely tough problems for free classified sites. We rely on both automated and manual processes. We blacklist keywords, IP addresses, countries, etc. and also have a 20 person customer service team monitoring the site, removing duplicates, spam, etc.

The process is not perfect yet, but improving. We intend to more to 24/7 monitoring at some point in February or March. We are also working on what we hope will be a phenomenal proprietary new spam/scam filtering tool.

What are the revenue models available? Do you see yourself opting for banner advertising etc?

Most classified companies charge fees to post an ad. However, there is a wide range of business models – I have seen subscription models (in matrimonial sites for instance), charges to reply to ads (often on roommate sites).

We have chosen to be free to post and free to reply – and intend to remain so forever! We make money by displaying text ads (currently provided by Google) on the listings results page and on individual classified ads. We don’t intend to put more ads in the short term.

We will eventually charge users who want to feature their listings by having them appear on the home page of OLX or the top of the listings, but we don’t plan to launch this in India in the immediate future.

Anything which we can expect to roll out from the Olx stable in the coming weeks.

We will be deploy the filters we first deployed in India on the listings results page to the other OLX countries in the coming weeks. We are also working on making them specific to each category.

We have a lot of new features in the works, but the most important Indian specific feature is the launch of Hindi in the first quarter.

Anything else ,of note, you would like to mention.

It is probably worth mentioning that in India we work Atul Khekade, who was nominated as one of the top entrepreneurs in Asia under 25 by Businessweek Online in 2006. 

Interview with Amarjit Batra CEO - OLX India

“CLASSIFIEDS WAS ONLY RELEVANT FOR B2C OR B2B”

WHERE ON ONE HAND, THE FIGHT BETWEEN ONLINE & TRADITIONAL RETAILERS HAS BECOME A COMMON TALE IN THE B2B & B2C SEGMENTS, AN ONLINE PLAYER LIKE OLX HAS BROUGHT ALIVE THE BUY-SELL SPIRIT IN THE C2C CATEGORY. AND THERE’S EXCITEMENT.

AMARJIT BATRA - CEO - OLX INDIA& HEAD - ASIA,OLX INC.

Three years after entering the Indian market, OLX – in 2009 – ventured into the C2C classifi eds space. OLX.in seems to have got a head start in the fast growing digital commerce market in India. Isn’t that so?

OLX realised that people typically stock unused old goods at home for very long – especially in the Indian market – and

identifi ed the latent need to sell these used goods for which it created an online C2C market place where users can sell & buy their personal goods. Classifi eds in its traditional form was only relevant for B2C or B2B users, but OLX made this completely C2C and thereby created a new marketplace altogether. It connects buyers and sellers who wish to buy, sell, exchange or trade used goods and services, by posting a free ad on its website. People use this classifi eds platform to search for any product that they want to buy directly from individuals. At present, Delhi, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are our biggest markets in India, with these fi ve states accounting for over 60% of the listings on our site. However, even for the Tier III locations like Lucknow, Vijaywada, Bhubaneshwar et al, we have noted increases in online activity and engagements on the C2C platform.

So what product categories get the maximum postings?

Most people at present post ads for selling their old mobile phones, laptops, cars and two wheelers.

Think of the top three brands in the online classifi eds market in India, and you are bound to mention OLX. How difficult was it for you to establish the concept of buying and selling of unused and used goods on OLX.in?

We Indians have a tendency to hold on to our old belongings, values of which mostly fall eventually. As far as convincing Indians to give up their old goods, it was quite a task – it required us to infl uence a behavioural change in people. Having said that the initial time was challenging. People’s attitude has been changing fast over the past few years due to multiple factors like urbanisation, houses becoming smaller and increasing consumerism. We offered OLX as a new way to sell and discard old goods and evangelised the C2C segment as a whole.

You make it sound like the initial challenge to set up an ecosystem for user generated content – C2C – wasn’t a big one. Are we right?

Oh! It was challenging initially as we were trying to create a market that didn’t exist. Online Classifi eds in India existed predominantly as B2B and with our continuous efforts we managed to create some space for C2C. And that of course has

grown in time. While we had identified the latent need but creating the right platform for users – safe, easy to use and one that gave them desired results – was critical. Unlike other sites, we have exclusive user generated content (UGC). Getting people to change behaviour and develop a positive attitude towards UGC was the prime challenge. We have invested heavily in motivating users and educating them about the ease and convenience that OLX offers. We have developed different mobile platforms – including apps for all mobile operating systems – to get more people on board. The right marketing mix and message, and the right product platform – appropriate efforts in these areas together have helped in creating a safe and easy to use C2C platform.

You mentioned ‘marketing mix’. In the past 12 months, much has been  seen from OLX in the name of TVC and online spends. How have the promotional efforts helped?

We have invested in marketing to reach  out to a larger audience and make it understand the benefi ts of transacting in

used goods. The initiative to educate customers – about usages and benefits – has helped both OLX and the category

grow. It took a sustained effort to create  the market and reach the leadership position.

What strategy has OLX adopted to acquire users by the volumes?

 Since we are an online platform, digital advertising was the most obvious choice to start with. As Internet penetration

was low in India, we decided to use TV’s massive reach to educate prospective consumers and help in creation of the

market. We have undertaken 360-degree marketing campaigns to engage with customers in various parts of the country.

We have been using social media to remain in regular touch with social media consumers. Since recent growth of the Internet has been happening through the mobile platform, we have also been the front-runners in our focus on mobility devices. Today, OLX is available to users who don’t have access to laptops, broadband & PCs. Our latest Mrs. Bech De tips campaign on video sharing website and Bechshala TV capsule are meant to educate users on how to use and get maximum out of OLX!

How about some numbers to prove that your brand has made its mark in the online space?

While there are statistics to prove our mettle, we believe the true indicator of our success so far has been the mindset

change we have managed to bring about amongst our users. Our users are able to sell faster and get good prices for

their goods. Various user testimonials are an indication of same. We have engaged  users to such an extent that our

communication message (“Bech de”) has become a common phrase. Here are few numbers showcasing our success

rate: OLX’s traffi c has grown 55 times in the last 22 months. Our website crossed half-a-billion page views in July

2013 – double the number of page views our closest competitors get. OLX’s 2 year CAGR of 653% is signifi cantly

ahead of the 32% CAGR that Internet traffi c has recorded over the same period. OLX’s brand awareness is 4 times

its closest competitor. OLX’s mobile traffi c surpassed it’s web traffi c in recent months. 100% of listing content on

OLX is user generated – and that’s some sign of our success.

As far as geographical reach is concerned, OLX.in has the widest reach as compared to other online classifieds platform? What kind of traction has OLX got in Tier 2 & 3 markets?

We are present in over 1,000 cities across India. OLX is probably the only site which has users from various pockets of

the country. We treat every city as a market place, the hyper local nature of website and mobile platform makes it very

relevant for users. Tier 2-3 cities’ trafficis the fastest growing traffi c and contributes over 40% of our total traffi c.

Mobile WAP and app are helping us penetrate further in tier 2-3 towns. OLX.in is the largest C2C marketplace

in India today. We observe a lot of activity across products like mobile phones, cameras, furniture, cars and bikes, laptops

and PCs, real estate in the cities of Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune and Ahmedabad. The fact that cattle and agricultural products are also commonly listed on OLX these days indicates that we’ve even arrived in rural India.

OLX.in is also gaining popularity as a multi-lingual platform in India. What has been the response to digital content in regional languages?

Our WAP users are from areas where the Internet penetration is very low. In addition to English, we also extend our

services for these users in different languages like Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam and Marathi. We initially

began our online exercise with 5-6 languages to gauge user response. Many more local languages are on the cards.

Every medium has a certain reach and user profi le. PC Internet users are most comfortable using websites in English

because a majority of websites, PC programs and input methods don’t support other languages. Mobile apps which are

accessed by smartphone users are customised for processing Internet content in English. Our WAP platform is mostly

accessed through feature phones from smaller cities – and that’s where the need for language options arises.

How about the rising popularity of mobile classifi eds in India – how has OLX changed gears from PC to mobility

devices?

Mobile is increasingly becoming the choice of medium to use Internet and services based on Internet. Penetration

of cheaper smart phones is giving a boost to the growth of mobile Internet usage, especially in tier 2 & 3 locations.

We saw this shift in trend early on and have bet big on the mobile Internet market. The count of Internet users in India

is scheduled to increase fi vefold by 2015 – and what’s best for us is that more than 75% of this count of new users

will come from the mobile category. How have we benefi tted? Typically, other Internet companies get 20-25% of

their traffi c from mobile. OLX gets around 55%.

What is the future of online classifi eds in India?

Online classifieds business has the potential to become the most widespread business in the world of Internet business

industry in the country and ahead, it will actually drive forward growth of Internet in the country.

Cannot see Comments and Likes on Facebook Posts - Google Chrome

If you are not able to see your likes and comments on your facebook account.

Don't hesitate!!!!!

There is nothing wrong with your facebook account. The problem is in your web browser. And I am sure you are using Google Chrome browser.

Now, the question is how it will work?

Simple!!!!

Just change your web browser. You can download and use Mozilla, Opera, IE, etc......

All the best!!!

How to Add Start Menu in Windows 8

Windows 8 doesn't have start menu like the earlier windows series.

If you want to have a start menu Download and Install this free software; CLASSICSHELL

All the best!!!

List of Government Scholarships in India

CSIR-UGC National Eligibility Test(NET) 2014

CSIR-UGC National Eligibility Test(NET) 2014

Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is inviting applications for conducting Joint CSIR-UGC National Eligibility Test (NET) June 2014 for awarding Junior Research Fellowships (JRF) and Eligibility for Lectureship.

CSIR-UGC NET Exam for Science stream is conducted by CSIR twice a year in the following areas:

1. Chemical Sciences

2. Earth Sciences

3. Life Sciences

4. Mathematical Sciences

5. Physical Sciences

6. Engineering Sciences

7. Atmospheric Sciences

8. Ocean and Planetary Sciences

CSIR-UGC NET Previous Papers:

The previous papers and the model papers of CSIR-UGC NET exam are available in our education website www.sakshieducation.com. The candidates can get access to the previous papers by going through the following link:

http://www.sakshieducation.com/PreviousPapers/prevlist.aspx?cid=6&sid=401&chid=630

Eligibility Criteria

The candidate should have the following eligibility criteria:

Maximum Age Limit

For JRF (NET): 28 Years as on 01 January 2014

For LS (NET): No Upper Age Limit

Educational Qualification

The candidate should hold a BS-4 years program/BE/B. Tech./B. Pharma./MBBS/ Integrated BS-MS/M.Sc. or Equivalent degree/B.Sc. (Hons) or equivalent degree holders or students enrolled in Integrated MS-PhD program with at least 55% marks. The minimum marks are 50% for SC/ST candidates, physically and visually handicapped candidates.

Candidates with bachelors degree, whether Science, Engineering or any other discipline, will be eligible for fellowship only after getting registered/enrolled for PhD/integrated PhD program within the validity period of two years.

For Lectureship of NET: The PhD degree holder who have qualified Masters Degree before 19 September 1991, with minimum 50% Marks

How to apply?

CSIR-UGC (NET) June 2014 online application form is available in the official CSIR website from 10th February 2014.

Printout/ Hardcopy of the completely filled online application along with the application requisite examination fee must be reach to the Sr. Controller of Examination, Human Resource Development Group, Examination Unit, CSIP Complex, Library Avenue, Pusa, New- Delhi, Pin- 110012.

Application Fees

The candidate has to pay an application fee of Rs. 400. The fee is Rs. 200 for OBC and Rs. 100 for SC/ST candidates.

Important Dates

Starting date of online registration: 10 February 2014

Closing date of online registration: 04 March 2014

Last date of submitting online application fee: 03 March 2014

Last date for receipt of printout of online application: 8 March 2014

Date of Single MCQ Examination: 22 June 2014

Last date for receipt of application from candidates of far flung areas: 14 March 2014

For more details, please visit: http://csirhrdg.res.in/jrfsrfra2.htm

HTIC Innovation Fellowships 2014-2015

HTIC Innovation Fellowships 2014-2015

Healthcare Technology Innovation Centre (HTIC) a joint initiative of IIT Madras and Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India, is inviting applications for awarding HTIC Innovation Fellowships 2014-2015.

Fellowship Details

The Innovation Fellowship programme is aimed at creating innovators and innovations in healthcare technology to address the growing healthcare needs of India.

Innovation fellows are paid a full stipend during the 18 months fellowship programme period of the fellowship. 

Eligibility criteria

Fresh graduates and ones with work experience in engineering, medicine, business administration, public health, and social sciences can apply for this fellowship.

How to apply?

The candidates can send their CV and project description to innovation_fellowship@htic.iitm.ac.in

Important Dates

Last date for submission of application: 28 February 2014

For more details, please visit-

http://htic.iitm.ac.in/?q=htic-innovation-fellowships-2014-2015

Maulana Azad National Scholarship Scheme for Indian Meritorious Girl Students

Maulana Azad National Scholarship Scheme for Indian Meritorious Girl Students

Maulana Azad Education Foundation announces the Maulana Azad National Scholarship to recognize, promote and assist meritorious Girl students belonging to National Minorities who cannot continue their education without financial support.

Value of the scholarships: Rs 12,000 (Rs 6,000 in XI & Rs 6,000 in XII)

Eligibility:

Only Girl Students belonging to National Minorities,(i.e. Muslims, Christians, Buddhists, Sikhs, Parsis) can apply

Should have secured not less than 55% marks (in aggregate) in the secondary school certificate examination (Class 10th) conducted by any recognized Centre/State Board of Secondary Education

Family income of the student from all sources should be less than Rs. 1, 00, 000/-(Rupees one lakh only) in the preceding financial year

Should have confirmed admission in class-XI in a University/College/ Institute recognized by the Government at the Central or State level or any other competent authority.

It is one time scholarship, and no claim as permanent beneficiary will be entertained. Student once selected for scholarship can not avail the same again.

A student getting a scholarship from any other source would not be eligible for this Scholarship.

How to apply: Through online

Source: http://maef.nic.in/

National Child Award for Exceptional Achievement

National Child Award for Exceptional Achievement
The Government of India from time to time has been instituting awards for individuals and organizations that have done outstanding work for the welfare and development of children.  Awards have also been instituted for honoring children who have been shown exemplary courage at the risk of their own lives. The Ministry has for some time been thinking of instituting Awards to give recognition to children with exceptional abilities and who have achieved outstanding status in various fields including academics, arts, culture and sports etc.
Award Details:
The Awards for the child with exceptional achievement shall consist of:-
(A) Gold Medal - (1 (One)
(i) Cash prize of Rs.20, 000/-
(ii) Citation and certificates, and
(iii) Gold Medal
(B) Silver Medals – 35 (Thirty five)
(i) Award money @ Rs.10, 000/- for each awardee
(ii) Citation and certificate for each awardee, and
(iii) Silver Medal for each awardee
Date of Award:
The Award will be announced on 14th November each year and will be given away in New Delhi on a date and time convenient to the Minister for Women & Child Development.
The child will receive the Award personally.  The Ministry of Women & Child Development will pay the Awardees and his/her guardian/escort (maximum number 2) expenditure involved in traveling and daily allowances as per rules.
Eligibility:
Children between the age of 4 to 15 years who have shown in exceptional achievement in any field including academics, arts and culture and sports etc. will be considered for this Award.  One Gold Medal and 35 Silver Medals (one for each State/U.T) are to be given annually.
Selection process:
(i) The child is to be selected for the Award should unusual talent and exceptional achievement in any field including academics, arts, culture and sports etc.
(ii) Age certificate (Date of birth) duly attested by a Gazetted Govt. office may be attached.
(iii) Tributes/traits, which are claimed to be possessed by the child extraordinary or exceptional, should be reported in the Press, or have been tested by experts in the field.  It should also be possible to subject the claim to an objective test.
The National Selection Committee may, at its discretion, also consider individuals other than recommended by a State Governments/U.T. Administration, for the Award.
Last date for submission of recommendations: 31st July every year

Scholarship for students with disabilities by Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment

Scholarship for students with disabilities by Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment

Applications (in English or Hindi) are invited from the persons with disabilities to award the National Scholarships for pursuing technical and professional courses from recognized institutions.

Number of Scholarship: 500

Value of the Scholarship:

Scholarship of Rs.1000/-p.m. for hostellers and Rs.700/- p.m. for day scholars studying in professional courses at graduation and above level, and Rs.700/- p.m. for hostellers and Rs.400/- p.m. for day scholars pursuing Diploma /certificate level professional. Course fee is reimbursed upto ceiling of Rs.10, 000/- per year.

Salient features of the scheme are:

National scholarships will be awarded to eligible students with disabilities for pursuing technical and professional courses from recognized institutions.

Financial Assistance can be given for computer with editing software for blind/deaf graduate and post graduate students pursuing professional courses and for support access software for cerebral palsy students.

How to apply:

The eligible students with disabilities should submit their applications for scholarship in prescribed format duly countersigned and recommended by the head of the institution, where they are studying, so as to reach, complete in all respects to: National Handicapped Finance and Development Corporation (NHFDC), Red Cross Bhawan, Sector-12, Faridabad-121007

Source: http://www.nhfdc.org

Chacha Nehru Scholarship for Artistic and Innovation Excellence

Chacha Nehru Scholarship for Artistic and Innovation Excellence

With a view to further encouraging and nurturing talent NCERT will support the children who participate in the National Camp organized by the National Bal Bhawan through a scheme of Chacha Nehru Scholarships for Artistic and Innovative Excellence. The Chacha Nehru Scholarships for Artistic and Innovative Excellence will be available to children pursuing secondary and senior secondary education in classes IX – XII

Eligibility & Value of the scholarship:

1. Children participating in the National Camps of the National Bal Bhawan and pursuing studies in Classes IX – XII will be awarded an scholarship of Rs 500 per month for a period of four year till they complete Class XII.

2. The National Bal Bhawan will continue to independently design and evolve its testing tools and evaluation/ assessment schemes for identification of Bal Shree awardees. The National Bal Bhawan will also independently administer the activities/ tests for identification of Bal Shree awardees.

3. The National Bal Bhawan will submit to NCERT a list of children studying in classes IX – XII who have been selected for participation in the National Bal Bhawan Camp for award of the Chacha Nehru Scholarships for Artistic and Innovative Excellence. This list will be accompanied by detailed information on each child as per Proforma developed by NCERT.

Source: http://www.ncert.nic.in/html/pdf/chacha_nehru/bal_shree_awards.pdf

Balika Samridhi Yojana for Indian Girl Children

Balika Samridhi Yojana for Indian Girl Children

The recast Balika Samridhi Yojana will be a 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme to extend 100% central assistance to States/Union Territories to provide benefits under the Scheme in accordance with the norms, guidelines and conditions laid down by the Central Government.

Objectives of the Program:

• To change negative family and community attitudes towards the girl child at birth and towards her mother.

• To improve enrolment and retention of girl children in schools.

• To rise the age at marriage of girls.

• To assist the girl to undertake income generating activities.

Components of the Balika Samridhi Yojana:

The girl children eligible under BSY will be entitled to the following benefits:

A post-birth grant amount of Rs.500/-.

When the girl child born on or after 15/8/1997 and covered under BSY starts attending the school, she will become entitled to annual scholarships as under for each successfully completed year of schooling:-

Class  Amount of Annual Scholarship

I-III   Rs.300/- per annum for each class

IV  Rs.500/- per annum

V  Rs.600/- per annum

VI-VII  Rs.700/- per annum for each class

VIII  Rs.800/- per annum

IX-X  Rs.1, 000/- per annum for each class

Eligibility:

This scheme is intended to increase the status of the girl child in India. It provides financial support to encourage girls to attend schools. Girls born after the 15th of August 1997 to families living below the poverty line are eligible for this scheme.

A maximum of two daughters in a family can benefit from this scheme.

The scheme will pay annual scholarships into the girl’s account, starting at Rs.300 (when the girl is in Class 1) and reaching Rs.1, 000 when the girl is in Class 10.

The girl will receive the money when she is 18 years old, provided she is not yet married.

How to Apply: Contact the Gram Panchayat which you belongs to

Source: http://wcd.nic.in/BSY.htm

List of Science Scholarships in India

Department of Science & Technology : Ramanujan Fellowships

‘Ramanujan Fellowships’ are instituted by the Government of India. The fellowship is meant for brilliant scientists and engineers from all over the world to take up scientific research positions in India, especially those scientists who want to return to India from abroad.

The fellowships are scientist-specific and very selective. The Ramanujan Fellows could work in any of the scientific institutions and universities in the country and they would be eligible for receiving regular research grants through the extramural funding schemes of various S&T agencies of the Government of India.

Scope: All areas of science (in the broadest terms) will be covered by this fellowship.

Eligibility

The fellowship is open to brilliant scientists and engineers from all over the world who are below the age of 60 years.

The applicant should possess a higher degree or equivalent, such as Ph.D. in Science/ Engineering, Masters in Engineering or Technology/MD in Medicine, etc. and have adequate professional experience.

These Fellowships are very selective and only those who have a proven/outstanding tract record as evident from their research publications and recognitions would be eligible.

The candidate has to opt for either this fellowship or his present position/fellowship, if any.

Duration

The duration of the fellowship will be initially for five years.

NATURE OF SUPPORT

The value of the fellowship will be Rs. 75,000/- per month.

Each Fellow will, in addition, receive a contingency of Rs. 5.00 lakh per annum for conferences and other expenses.

The Ramanujan Fellows will be eligible for receiving regular research grants through the extramural funding schemes of various S&T agencies of the Government of India.

Methodology for Selection

The scientists can choose to work at any S&T institution including University Departments or other academic Institutions and National Laboratories in India, provided the Institution at which they wish to pursue research is willing to provide the necessary R&D, administrative and basic infrastructural support to facilitate research.

The availability of Ramanujan Fellowships will be advertised by various academic and research Institutions on their websites in order to receive applications from interested scientists and technologists.

The Institutions will subsequently submit their recommended nominations to the Department of Science & Technology. Institutions may consider setting up appropriate mechanisms to scrutinize and recommend the nominations.

Individual scientists and technologists can also approach the institutions for hosting them for the Fellowship and forwarding their nominations to DST for the Fellowship.

Selection of Ramanujan Fellows will be made periodically by an empowered Search-cum Selection Committee specially appointed for the purpose.

The nominations of scientists and technologists by the Institutions would be received throughout the year. There is, thus, no last date for this scheme.

Contact:

Director / Scientist 'F'

SERC

Department of Science & Technology

Technology Bhavan,

New Mehrauli Road,

New Delhi 110 016.

Email: sskohli@nic.in

Telephone: 011-26590499

For more details: http://dst.gov.in/scientific-programme/nsti/ramanujan_fellowship.pdf

Indian Council of Agricultural Research : Scholarships and Fellowships

Post Matric Scholarship for SC/ST - 240 per year

Eligibility:

For SC/ST Undergraduate degree program students studying in Agricultural Universities (State Agricultural Universities, Allhabad Agricultural Institute Deemed University, Central Agricultural University, Central Universities having Agriculture faculty and ICAR Institute based Deemed to be Universities)

Amount: Rs. 300/- pm + Rs. 750/- annual grant for the duration of the program

Merit cum Means (MCM) Scholarships

Eligibility: For Undergraduate degree program students having Parents Annual Income below Rs. 1 Lakh and studying in Agricultural Universities

Amount: Rs. 500/- pm for the duration of the program

Internships for Veterinary students

Eligibility: For B.V.Sc & AH and equivalent degree program students studying in Agricultural Universities

Amount: Rs. 400/- pm for 6 months + travel grant of Rs. 200/- for the duration of internship

Junior Research Fellowships for pursuing Master's degree - 475 number

Eligibility: For Master's students studying in Agricultural Universities

Amount :

Rs. 8640/- pm + Contingency grant of Rs. 6000/- per year for other than Veterinary Science students

Rs. 12000/- pm + Contingency grant of Rs. 6000/- per year for Veterinary Science students

Senior Research Fellowships for pursuing Ph. D. degree - 202 number

Eligibility: For Ph.D. students studying in Agricultural Universities

Amount:

Rs. 12000/- pm for 1 st and 2 nd year and Rs. 14000/- pm for 3 rd year + Contingency grant of Rs. 10000/- per year for other than Veterinary Science students

Rs. 14000/- pm for 1 st and 2 nd year and Rs. 15000/- pm for 3 rd year + Contingency grant of Rs. 10000/- per year for Veterinary Science students

Contact

Dr. Arvind Kumar, Deputy Director General (Education)

Division of Education, Krishi Anusandhan Bhawan - II, New Delhi - 110 012 INDIA.

Phone: (Off.) 91-11-25841760; Fax: 91-11-25843932

E-mail: ddgedn@icar.org.in

For more details : http://www.icar.org.in/en/node/378

International Scholarship @ University College Maastricht, Netherlands

University College Maastricht (UCM) invites applications from highly qualified non-EU students to give financial support to students who will be invited to enroll at UCM in September.

Number of Scholarships: 3

Duration of the UCM scholarship: The scholarship is awarded for the duration of the Bachelor's programme, with a maximum of 36 months.

Amount of Scholarship: €11.200 per annum

Eligibility:

Applicants must be accepted to the Liberal Arts & Sciences program of UCM for the September intake and must come from a country outside the EEA and meet the requirements for obtaining a Dutch visa (‘MVV’ residence permit).

How to apply: Applicants may fill in the online application form available in the website. For details visit www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/web/Schools/UCM/TargetGroup/ProspectiveStudents1/HowToApply.htm

Last date to apply: March 1, 2014

For More Details : http://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/web/Schools/UCM/TargetGroup/ProspectiveStudents1/FinancialMatters/Scholarships.htm

JNCASR Project Oriented Biological Education (POBE)

As part of its Science Outreach Programme, in 2006 the Centre initiated a new program in biology for undergraduate students (only the students who are studying in first year B.Sc) from other institutions. Selected students are exposed to the concepts and methodologies driving integrative research in biology today, through a combination of lectures, laboratory projects and research. The programme will be conducted during the summer vacation for a period of 6 to 8 weeks.

Number of Fellowships: 10

Advantage:

Scholarship of Rs. 6000/- per month will be provided. Students selected are expected to work at the Centre for three consecutive periods. After the successful completion of the programme at the end of 3 years, the students will receive a diploma in Biology from the Centre. Where possible, students will be allowed to work in the Centre during mid-semester vacations as well. Specialization in a more focused area or research will be possible during the second and third years.

Those who complete the POBE programme with outstanding performance will be eligible for admission to the MS/PhD programme of the Centre subject to satisfactory performance in the interview.

Only selected candidates will be intimated by last week of March and the list will also be available on the Centre web site.

Address:

The Assistant Coordinator

Fellowships and Extension Programmes

JNCASR

Jakkur

Bangalore 560 064.

For more details : http://www.jncasr.ac.in/

JNCASR Project Oriented  Chemical Education (POCE)

As part of its Science Outreach Programme, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research has initiated a new programme, Project Oriented Chemical Education (POCE), only for students studying in B. Sc first year (PCM) to explore their potentials, to stimulate genuine interest in science and infuse creativity and scientific temper amongst undergraduate students.

Fellowships offered will be upto 10. Selected students will be given an opportunity to involve in programmes such as lectures, laboratory projects and research. The programme will be conducted during summer vacation for a period of 6 to 8 weeks.

Advantage

A scholarship of Rs. 6000/- per month will be provided. Students selected are expected to work at the Centre for three such consecutive periods. Where possible, students will be allowed to work in the Centre during mid-semester vacations as well. Specialization in advanced materials will be possible during the last year. After the successful completion of the programme at the end of 3 years, the students will receive a Diploma in Chemistry from the Centre.

Eligibile for MS/PhD

Those who complete the POCE programme with outstanding performance will be eligible for admission to the MS/PhD programme of the Centre subject to satisfactory performance in the interview. Only selected candidates will be intimated by last week of March

Address:

The Assistant Coordinator

Fellowships and Extension Programmes

JNCASR

Jakkur

Bangalore 560 064.

For more details : http://www.jncasr.ac.in/fe/F%20&%20E%20web%20-%20POCE.htm

JNCASR Summer Research Fellowships for BSC/BTECH/BVSc/B Pharma/M SC students

Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research offers summer fellowships for two months to bright undergraduate and MSc students (renewable for a second year for selected students). This programme has proved to be popular and competitive; each year, about 5000 students from all over India apply for the 120 fellowships awarded. Fifty fellowships are supported by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, fifteen by the Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Contemporary Studies, New Delhi, and the rest by the Centre. Students are placed with research groups at the Centre or with scientists else where in India. They are paid travel expenses and a monthly stipend of Rs. 5000. Selected students get the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research, and several summer projects have led to publications in leading journals

Research Areas

Life Sciences: Infectious and non-infectious diseases, bioinformatics, developmental biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, life-history evolution, immunology, circadian biology, animal behaviour, behavioural ecology, evolutionary genetics, experimental evolution, chronobiology, behavior.

Material Sciences: Including Nano Sciences, energy and green materials.

Chemical Sciences: Solid state chemistry, theoretical/computational chemistry, inorganic, physical, organic chemistry.

Physical Sciences: Condensed matter theory and experiment, statistical physics, semiconductor materials physics, biophysics, nano physics, polymer physics, organic electronics, computational material science, soft matter.

Engineering Sciences: Theoretical and computational fluid dynamics, flow of complex fluids, granular media, experimental fluid mechanics, thermal science, chemical engineering and physical metallurgy, non-linear dynamics including planetary dynamics.

Mathematics: Fundamental Groups, Simplicial Homology and Triangulations.

Atmospheric Sciences: Atmospheric boundary layer, near-surface environment, radiation, solar-terrestrial relations, monsoon dynamics, modelling.

Eligibility for applying:

Academic requirements: Students who have secured not less than 80% (science and maths subjects only) in their 10th , 12th(10 +2) and not less than first class in graduation and post graduation(if applicable).

Only students presently studying in I and II year of B.Sc., I, II and III year of B.E / B.Tech. / B.V.Sc./ B.Pharm., I year of M.Sc. and I - IV year of Integrated M.Sc with the above mentioned academic requirements should apply.

The students selected under this programme are placed with scientists at the Centre or elsewhere in India, for 2 months with a stipend of Rs. 6000 /- p.m and travel support as per Govt. of India norms.

Advantage: About 15 students will be chosen as Rajiv Gandhi Science Talent Research Fellows based on the completed project reports

For more details : http://www.jncasr.ac.in/srfp.php

Masters Scholarship 2014 @ Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Kolkata is inviting applications for awarding Masters Scholarship 2014. 

Fellowship Details : 

The Masters Scholarship 2014 is for students pursuing 2 years Master of Statistics, Master of Mathematics and 3 years Master of Science programs in various areas offered at various campuses of the institution. 
The scholarship will cover Rs.5000 per month for the eligible candidates. 

Eligibility Criteria :The candidates should hold bachelors degree with Statistics as a full subject. 

How to apply ? 
The candidates can apply only online through the official website http://www.isical.ac.in/~deanweb. 

Important Dates :Last date for submission of application: 06 March 2014 

For more details, please visit: http://www.isical.ac.in/~admission/AKISIistAdmissionNotice2014-15F.pdf

PhD Fellowship @ Madurai Kamaraj University

Madurai Kamaraj University (MKU), Madurai, invites applications for PhD Fellowship 2014 for students pursuing 5 year integrated M.Sc.-PhD program in Genomics at the university.

Fellowship Details : The fellowship for the students admitted to PhD will be Rs. 12,000/- p.m. + 15% HRA + MA (Rs. 14,150/- p.m.) for first two years and Rs. 14,000/- p.m. + 15% HRA + MA (Rs. 16,450/-) for the third year.

Eligibility : A bachelor's degree in any branch of Life Sciences (Botany, Zoology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Genetics or equivalent), Physical and Chemical Sciences (Physics and Chemistry), Medicine, Veterinary and Agriculture from any recognized Indian or foreign university, with 55% marks or equivalent are eligible to apply.

Students with B.Tech. degrees in Biotechnology, Computer Science, Information Technology and Bioinformatics with Biology at +2 level are also eligible.

How to Apply : Candidates need to download the application form and apply by post.

Important Dates : Application deadline: Wednesday, April 16th 2014.

For more details, please visit: http://www.mkuniversity.org/downloads/Prospectus-AI-Corses-2014.pdf

Saha Insitute of Nuclear Physics : Undergraduate Associateship in Physics and Biophysical Sciences

Undergraduate Associates are exposed to short term courses and laboratory projects under the guidance of assigned mentors for a maximum period of 90 days, mainly during their vacations.

Benefits:

In this period they receive a stipend @ Rs. 150/- per day and a book grant upto Rs. 6000/- per annum. A travel allowance is also given for outstation Undergraduate Associates. The programme is for the undergraduate years.

On successful completion of the programme, an associate may be issued a certificate. Outstanding Undergraduate Associates may be selected as Graduate Associates of SINP if they pursue Masters Programmes in Basic sciences. On successful completion of the M. Sc course with First Class or equivalent grades they may be considered for absorption as Research Fellows of SINP with the usual fellowship.

Applications

Applications are usually sought in August/September from Indian nationals for selection of Undergraduate Associates under the auspices of the Centre for Advanced Research and Education (CARE) of Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics (SINP), Calcutta.

Eligibility:

Candidates from the first or second year Science undergraduate programme (B. Sc/Integrated M. Sc in Physics/Chemistry/Biological Sciences) who have secured at least 85% marks in Science and Mathematics and at least 80% in aggregate in Class XII Board Examination are encouraged to apply.

The final selection amongst the short listed candidates may involve an interview where the candidate is expected to display resourcefulness, passion for scientific research as well as mastery of scientific concepts.

For more details : http://www.saha.ac.in/cs/www/uga.htm

SCCF Scholarships 2014 @ TERI University

Sindicatum Climate Change Foundation (SCCF), UK, is inviting applications for awarding SCCF Scholarships 2014 for Indian and International students to pursue masters programs at the TERI University in India.

Scholarship Details

The Scholarships are available for the following masters programs:

M.Sc. Climate Science and Policy

M.Sc. Environmental Studies and Resource Management

M.Sc. Geoinformatics

M.Sc. Economics

M.Tech. Renewable Energy Engineering and Management

M.A. Sustainable Development Practice

Eligibility

The candidate must have a Bachelors degree in Science/ Engineering/ Economics/ Mathematics/Statistics/Geology /Geography with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 6.75 on a 10-point scale or equivalent, as determined by TERI University.

How to Apply

Applicants desirous of applying for the SCCF scholarship need to submit a separate plain paper application indicating the total family income.

Important Dates

Last date for submission of online application: 25 April 2014

For more details, please visit:

http://www.teriuniversity.ac.in/scholarship-masters-teri-university

Science and Engineering Research Council Fast track scheme for young scientists

SERC Fast Track Scheme for Young Scientists (FAST) from Dept of Science & Technology : The Department of Science and Technology, through Fast Track Scheme for Young Scientists, provides quick research funding to young scientists below the age of 35 years (relaxable by 5 years in the case of SC/ST/OBC, woman and physically handicapped category) to undertake independent research in newly emerging and frontier areas of science and engineering. The details of the scheme are as follows:- 

Objectives :

• To provide quick research support to young scientists for pursuing exciting and innovative research ideas.
• To provide opportunities for interaction and exchange of ideas with scientific community.
• To involve young scientists in national S&T development process.

Eligibility :The applicant should possess any of the following degrees:- 

Ph.D in Basic Science (Life Science, Physical Science, Chemical Science, Earth & Atmospheric Science, Mathematical Science), Engineering/Technology, Medicine/Surgery, Pharmacy, Veterinary Science, Agricultural Science or equivalent. Masters degree in Engineering/Technology, Medicine/Surgery, Pharmacy, Veterinary, Agriculture or equivalent. 

The candidate should be less than 35 years on the date on which the application is received in DST. However age relaxation of 5 years would be given to scientists belonging to SC/ST/OBC, Women and Physically Handicapped category. 

Funding : 

The funding is provided up to a maximum of Rs.17.00 lakhs (excluding overhead charges) for a period not exceeding three years. If the proposed objectives can be achieved in less than three years, the budget may be reduced accordingly. 

Funds are provided for equipments, consumables, travel and contingency. Additionally, the applicant if not holding a regular position or not drawing any other fellowship/stipend/salary, can draw a fellowship amount of Rs.20,000/- per month (all inclusive). The fellowship amount is taxable. In cases, where the applicant is holding a regular position, he/she can seek manpower at junior level (JRF, Project Assistant, etc.) 

“Overhead Charges” @ 20% of the project cost will be provided to the implementing institution over and above the project cost. 

Better Opportunities for Young Scientists in Chosen Areas of Science and Technology (BOYSCAST) 

The scheme provides opportunities to Young Indian Scientists and Technologies (up to the age of 35 years), to interact with international scientist community and institutions and to participate in research and training activities in frontline areas of science and technology. The duration of the Fellowship is 3-12 months. Annually, on an average, about 40 young scientists are awarded this fellowship in various areas, such as plant-microbe interactions; plant genetic resources; agricultural ecology; biodiversity and conservation biology; transplant biology; industrial microbiology; semiconductor physics; mathematical science; electronic material and processing; earth and atmospheric science; palaeoclimatology; organometallics; supramolecular chemistry; manufacturing engineering; computer and information science, earthquake engineering and structural dynamics. The selected young scientist is also encouraged to attend scientific conferences and visit other institutions in the host country. Candidates selected under this scheme are expected to further generate and spread their expertise at the S&T laboratories/ Institutes across the nation. 

Eligibility Criteria :Young Indian scientists who fulfill the following conditions can submit application/ proposal for award of BOYSCAST fellowship: 

Academic Qualifications : Master’s Degree in Engineering/Technology or equivalent or M.D. in Medicine or equivalent with research experience or Ph.D. in Science/Engineering or equivalent. 

Age :Upto 35 years (as on 1st April, 2010). The applicants belonging to SC/ST/OBC and women candidates may be allowed relaxation in the age limit upto 5 years 

Employment :A regular position in a recognized S&T institution/university/college. Applications from persons holding temporary positions such as research fellows or research associates etc. will not be considered. Candidate must be officially sponsored (their application to be formally forwarded) by the employer/head of the institution or agency with commitment to depute them for research/training under BOYSCAST programme. Forwarding note merely stating that above would be considered only after award of fellowship will not be considered by DST. 

Areas of work :Area proposed by the candidate should be in line with the above mentioned chosen areas. 

Place of work :The fellow should be accepted by a foreign academic/ scientific/ technological institution, which is internationally recognized as an outstanding institution where major work in the identified area is in progress. There should be willingness of the foreign institution to accept and extend necessary support to the candidate for the work proposed. The Professor/scientist with whom the fellow intends to work should be a research worker of repute. The candidate should himself/herself correspond with their proposed host institution/Professor abroad for placement. Candidate is required to produce evidence, in the form of a letter of acceptance from the overseas institution to be visited along with merits/uniqueness of that host institute in the proposed area. If the applicant has already worked at an institute abroad for a considerable period of time, the proposal to visit the same institute/work there is not likely to be considered favorably. 
Young scientists and technologists actively engaged in research and having established credibility in the proposed area of work will be preferred. 
The institute, to which the candidate belongs, should have either already initiated major research activities in the chosen area or should have immediate plans to initiate such programmes, based on the expertise of the individual and proposed training abroad. 
Candidates who have earlier availed of the BOYSCAST fellowship will not be eligible for consideration again for this fellowship. The candidates who have availed any other overseas fellowship for a period of more than three months through any Government/public funding agency during last two years will also not be considered for this fellowship. Preference is likely to be given to the applicants who don’t have any/have limited international exposure as compared to the applicants who have adequate international exposure during recent past, if they are otherwise suitable. 

For more details: http://dst.gov.in/

Sitaram Jindal Research Fellowship Scheme

Jindal Aluminium Ltd and Sitaram Jindal Foundation, which are consistently engaged in the field of Charitable and philanthropic activities in India since 1969, in furtherance to their endeavour, have instituted the ‘Sitaram Jindal Research Fellowship Scheme’ to encourage and inspire the talent and recognize excellence in innovation and research.

Amount of Fellowship: Up to Rs. 1 lakh per month.

The amount of Fellowship per month would depend upon whether the scholar is gainfully employed and is getting salary for his current employment in a Research Organisation or is getting only this fellowship.

Field of Research

The proposed area of research/work of the candidate could be in any of the following fields.

i) Any field of Science in its broadest terms including (but not limited to) Engineering and Technology, Medicine including Indian Systems of Medicine with special emphasis on Naturopathy, Agriculture, Vet. Sc., Environment etc.

ii) Innovative solutions to the problems faced by the country and the people of India in any field.

iii) Towards poverty alleviation – innovations to benefit the poor in a big way.

Eligibility

Open to all Indians living in India or abroad. The Research work should be conducted in India. Persons of Indian origin who have acquired foreign nationality are not eligible.

Should have PhD or MD/ MS in Medicine or M Tech or equivalent, in the relevant field

Further details regarding eligibility are available at

http://www.sjfellowship.com/Sitaram%20Jindal%20Fellowship%20Scheme.pdf

Duration

Initially for 3 years which can be extended up to a maximum total of 6 years, depending upon the quality and the quantity of the research work done so far, need for extension and the likely outcome of further research work.

Applications

The application form and all other relevant information can be downloaded from the "Sitaram Jindal Research Fellowship Scheme" website www.sjfellowship.org

The applications for fellowship can be sent any time of the year. There is no last date.

For more details: http://www.sjfellowship.com/Sitaram%20Jindal%20Fellowship%20Scheme.pdf

Department of Science & Technology : JC Bose National Fellowships

The fellowship is meant to recognize active scientists and engineers for their outstanding performance and contributions. The Department of Science & Technology will administer this scheme. The fellowships are scientist–specific and very selective.

Scope All areas of science (in the broadest terms) will be covered by this fellowship.

Eligibility The fellowship is open to Indian Nationals residing in India who are below the age of 60 years.

The applicant should possess a higher degree or equivalent: namely Ph.D. in Science/Engineering, Masters in Engineering or Technology/MD in Medicine, etc. and must have carried out several years of work in the specific area.

These Fellowships are meant for those who have a proven track–record as evident from their research publications and recognitions.

The candidate must have a regular position in an Institute /Organization and should be engaged in research. If he /she is availing any other fellowship, he/she will have to opt for only one of the fellowships.

Duration The duration of the fellowship will be initially for five years.

Nature Of Support The value of the fellowship will be Rs. 25,000 per month in addition to regular income. In addition, each Fellow will receive a contingency of Rs. 10.00 lakh per annum for conferences and other expenses. The JC Bose National Fellows would be eligible for regular research grants through the extramural funding schemes of various S&T agencies of the Government of India.

Methodology for Selection The Institution in which the candidate is working would provide the necessary R&D, administrative and basic infrastructural support for research.

The candidate will continue to work at the place of his employment. The availability of JC Bose Fellowships will be advertised by various academic and research Institutions on their websites in order to receive applications from the interested scientists and engineers. The Institutions will subsequently submit their recommended nominations to the Department of Science & Technology.

Institutions may consider setting up appropriate mechanisms to scrutinize and recommend the nominations. Individual scientists and engineers can also approach the institutions for forwarding their nominations to DST for the Fellowship.

Selection of JC Bose Fellows will be made periodically by an empowered Search-cum-Selection Committee specially appointed for the purpose.

The nominations of scientists and technologists by the Institutions would be received throughout the year. There is, thus, no last date for this Scheme.

For more details : http://dst.gov.in/