The Hanuman Chalisa - praise for Lord Hanuman, explained and shared

The Hanuman Chalisa - praise for Lord Hanuman, explained and shared

I have been a strong Hanuman believer since my childhood days. Though, not a strong one going to temple every week or every occasions, but heart-to-heart, always felt connected with the mighty God of my Hindu faith. Lord Hanuman has been my guide and path-bearer since the time I could remember gaining consciousness and growing-up in Patna. However, I was pretty late in picking-up ‘The Hanuman Chalisa’ by-heart. Even today, after so many years and perhaps with uncounted chantings, according to my wife, I still miss few words which is a shame for a religious devout like me. But then, that is me and I am sure my Lord Hanuman will pardon me for that.

Every time, I would read Hanuman Chalisa and wonder what it means really? We all know, Hindu fiath existing for last 3000 yrs, with over 1.00 billion faithfull in India and across the world, has many Gods and many interpretation, so there is no one teaching or Mono-History. Of Course, Lord Hanuman is omni-present from Kashmir to Kanya-kumari, from Goa to Calcutta, around and beyound, one can’t fathom, but I must admit that ‘The Chalisa’ was never understood 100% by me, till today.

My best frined Nishit Srivastava sent me the meaning of “Hanuman Chalisa” and I was too impressed to read it, thus desided to put it on my morning blog. I am sure, not every one is as ignorant as me about Hanuman Chalisa, but this English version interpretation of Hanuman Chalisa will be a good guild for many who wants to know more about our Monkey God Hanuman (Son of Maruti (air) and Shiva avatar.

Here it goes. Read, Enjoy and Believe that “Good is always Good”

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Shree Hanuman Chalisa

Shree Guru Charan Saroj Raj, Nij Man Mukar Sudhari,
Barnau Raghuvar Bimal Jasu, Jo dayaku Phal Chari

With the dust of Guru’s Lotus feet, I clean the mirror of my mind and then narrate the sacred glory of Sri Ram Chandra, The Supereme among the Raghu dynasty. The giver of the
four attainments of life.

Budhi heen Tanu Janike, Sumirow, Pavan Kumar, Bal Buddhi
Vidya Dehu Mohi, Harahu Kalesh Bikaar

Knowing myself to be ignorent, I urge you, O Hanuman, The son of Pavan! O Lord! kindly Bestow on me strength, wisdom and knowledge, removing all my miseries and blemishes.

Jai Hanuman Gyan Guna Sagar Jai Kipis Tihun Lok Ujgaar
Victory of Thee, O Hanuman, Ocean of wisdom and virtue, victory to the Lord of monkeys who is well known in all the three worlds.

Ramdoot Atulit Bal Dhamaa, Anjani Putra Pavansut naamaa.
You, the Divine messager of Ram and repository of immeasurable strength, are also known as

Anjaniputra and known as the son of the wind - Pavanputra.

Mahebeer Bikram Bajrangi, Kumati Nivaar Sumati Ke Sangi.
Oh Hanumanji! You are valiant and brave, with a body like lightening. You are the dispeller of darkness of evil thoughts and companion of good sense and wisdom.

Kanchan Baran Biraaj Subesaa, Kanan kundal kunchit kesa.
Shri Hanumanji’s physique is golden coloured. His dress is pretty, wearing ‘Kundals’ ear-rings and his hairs are long and curly.

Hath Bajra Aur Dhvaja Birjai, Kandhe Moonj Janeu saage.
Shri Hanumanji is holding in one hand a lighting bolt and in the other a banner with sacred thread across his shoulder.

Shankar Suvna Kesari Nandan, Tej Pratap Maha Jag Vandan.
Oh Hanumanji! You are the emanation of ‘SHIVA’ and you delight Shri Keshri. Being ever effulgent, you and hold vast sway over the universe. The entire world proptiates. You are adorable of all.

Vidyavaan Guni Ati Chatur, Ram Kaj Karibe Ko Atur
Oh! Shri Hanumanji! You are the repository learning, virtuous, very wise and highly keen to do the work of Shri Ram.

Prabhu Charittra Sunibe Ko Rasiya, Ram Lakhan Sita man basyia.
You are intensely greedy for listening to the naration of Lord Ram’s lifestory and revel on its enjoyment. You ever dwell in the hearts of Shri Ram-Sita and Shri Lakshman.

Sukshma roop Dhari Siyahi Dikhwana, Bikat roop Dhari Lank Jarawa
You appeared beofre Sita in a diminutive form and spoke to her, while you assumed an awesome form and struck terror by setting Lanka on fire.

Bhim roop Dhari Asur Sanhare, Ramchandra Ke kaaj Savare.
He, with his terrible form, killed demons in Lanka and performed all acts of Shri Ram.

Laye Sajivan Lakhan Jiyaye, Shri Raghubir harashi ur laye.
When Hanumanji made Lakshman alive after bringing ‘Sanjivni herb’ Shri Ram took him in his deep embrace, his heart full of joy.

Raghupati Kinhi Bahut Badaai, Tum Mama Priya Bharat Sam Bahi.
Shri Ram lustily extolled Hanumanji’s excellence and remarked, “you are as dear to me as my own brother Bharat".

Sahastra Badan Tumharo Jas Gaave, Asa kahi Shripati Kanth Laagave.
Shri Ram embraced Hanumanji saying: “Let the thousand - tongued sheshnaag sing your glories".

Sankadik Brahmadi Muneesa, Narad Sarad Sahit Aheesa
Sanak and the sages, saints. Lord Brahma, the great hermits Narad and Goddess Saraswati along with Sheshnag the cosmic serpent, fail to sing the glories of Hanumanji exactly

Jam Kuber Digpal Jahan Te, Kabi Kabid Kahin Sake Kahan Te
What to talk of denizens of the earth like poets and scholars ones etc even Gods like Yamraj, Kuber, and Digpal fail to narrate Hanman’s greatness in toto.

Tum Upkar Sugrivahi Keenha, Ram Miali Rajpad Deenha
Hanumanji! You rendered a great service for Sugriva, It were you who united him with SHRI RAM and installed him on the Royal Throne.

Tumharo Mantro Bibhishan Maana, Lankeshwar Bhaye Sab Jag Jaana.
By heeding your advice. Vibhushan became Lord of Lanka, which is known all over the universe.

Juug Sahastra Jojan Par Bhaanu, Leelyo Taahi Madhur Phal Jaanu
Hanumanji gulped, the SUN at distance of sixteen thousand miles considering it to be a sweet fruit.

Prabhu Mudrika Meli Mukha Maaheen, Jaladhi Langhi Gaye Acharaj Naheen.
Carrying the Lord’s ring in his mouth, he went across the ocean. There is no wonder in that.

Durgam Kaaj Jagat Ke Jeete, Sugam Anugrah Tumhre Te Te.
Oh Hanumanji! all the difficult tasks in the world are rendered easiest by your grace.

Ram Duware Tum Rakhavare, Hot Na Aagya Bin Paisare.
Oh Hanumanji! You are the sentinel at the door of Ram’s mercy mansion or His divine abode. No one may enter without your permission.

Sab Sukh Lahen Tumhari Sarna, Tum Rakshak Kaahu Ko Darnaa.
By your grace one can enjoy all happiness and one need not have any fear under your protection.
Aapan Tej Samharo Aapei, Tanau Lok Hank Te Kanpei
When you roar all the three worlds tremble and only you can control your might.

Bhoot Pisaach Nikat Nahi Avei, Mahabir Jab Naam Sunavei.
Great Brave on. Hanumanji’s name keeps all the Ghosts, Demons & evils spirits away from his devotees.

Nasei Rog Hare Sab Peera, Japat Niranter Hanumant Beera
On reciting Hanumanji’s holy name regularly all the maladies perish the entire pain disappears.

Sankat Te Hanuman Chhudavei, Man Kram Bachan Dhyan Jo Lavei.
Those who rembember Hanumanji in thought, word and deed are well guarded against their odds in life.

Sub Par Ram Tapasvee Raaja, Tinke Kaaj Sakal Tum Saaja
Oh Hanumanji! You are the caretaker of even Lord Rama, who has been hailed as the Supreme Lord and the Monarch of all those devoted in penances.

Aur Manorath Jo Koi Lave, Soi Amit Jivan Phal Pave.
Oh Hanumanji! You fulfill the desires of those who come to you and bestow the eternal nectar the highest fruit of life.

Charo Juung Partap Tumhara, Hai Parsiddha Jagat Ujiyara.
Oh Hanumanji! You magnificent glory is acclaimed far and wide all through the four ages and your fame is radianlty noted all over the cosmos.

Sadho Sant Ke Tum Rakhvare, Asur Nikandan Ram Dulare.
Oh Hanumanji! You are the saviour and the guardian angel of saints and sages and destroy all the Demons, you are the seraphic darling of Shri Ram.

Ashta Siddhi Nau Nidhi Ke Data, Asa Bar Din Janki Mata.
Hanumanji has been blessed with mother Janki to grant to any one any YOGIC power of eight Sidhis and Nava Nidhis as per choice.

Ram Rasayan Tumhare Pasa, Sadaa Raho Raghupati Ke Dasa.
Oh Hanumanji! You hold the essence of devotion to RAM, always remaining his servant.

Tumhare Bhajan Ramko Pavei. Janam Janam Ke Dukh Bisravei.
Oh Hanumanji! through devotion to you, one comes to RAM and becames free from suffering of several lives.

Anta Kaal Raghubar Pur Jai, Jahan Janma Hari Bhakta Kahai.
After death he enters the eternal abode of Sri Ram and remains a devotee of him, whenever, taking new birth on earth.

Aur Devata Chitt Na Dharai, Hanumant Sei Sarva Sukh Karai
You need not hold any other demigod in mind. Hanumanji alone will give all happiness.

Sankat Kate Mitey Sab Peera, Jo Sumirei Hanumant Balbeera
Oh Powerful Hanumanji! You end the sufferings and remove all the pain from those who remember you.

Jai Jai Jai Hanuman Gosai Kripa Karahu Gurudev Ki Naiee
Hail-Hail-Hail-Lord Hanumanji! I beseech you Honour to bless me in the capacity of my supreme ‘GURU’ (teacher).

Jo Sat Baar Paath Kar Koi, Chhutahi Bandi Maha Sukh Hoi.
One who recites this Hanuman Chalisa one hundred times daily for one hundred days becames free from the bondage of life and death and ejoys the highest bliss at last.

Jo Yah Padhe Hanuman Chalisa, Hoy Siddhi Sakhi Gaurisa
As Lord Shankar witnesses, all those who recite Hanuman Chalisa regularly are sure to be benedicted.

Tulsidas Sada Hari Chera, Keeje Nath Hriday Mah Dera.
Tulsidas always the servant of Lord prays. “Oh my Lord! You enshrine within my heart.!

Chopai

Pavan Tanay Sankat Haran , Mangal Murti Roop. Ram Lakhan Sita Sahit, Hriday Basahu Sur Bhoop.

O Shri Hanuman, The Son of Pavan, Saviour The Embodiment of blessings, reside in my heart together with Shri Ram, Laxman and Sita.

Online Insurance in India is welcome - by MKJ

As they say ‘change is inevitable’ or the only this that is constant is ‘change’. Insurance in India fits this adage very well. I remember the times, when we heard new generation of Insurance around 7-8 yrs ago when Indian Parliament had just passed the revolutionary IRDA bill. Indian Insurance world changed since then.

All big MNC names were making rounds to find a suitable bride (Partners) for their Indian Operations. I was lucky to be part of that change and was lucky to meet some of the best minds with their recently appointed County Heads. Then, it was still AIG / Allianz / Tokiyo, Lombard / AMP or Chubb. Things were moving very fast and practically every one was looking at best Indian brand to partner with. Soon, durable partnerships were announced (we see today) with the exception of Chubb and AMP abandoning their Partner HDFC / Sanmar since they chose to exit the great Indian Insurance market.

In those strategic meetings, mostly we discussed new innovative products and effective but profitable channel of distribution. Particularly, for the General Insurance segment, we were facing a daunting task of relevant data, including loss ratios so that a smart insurance product could be built for Indian customers. The old players of this industry i.e. the Govt. of Indian Insurance Companies were reluctant to share the data and very much righty so as the winner in Insurance game is only that who could underwrite the risk well. Other wise, what is the difference between FMCG and Insurance business model?

Well with not much of luck, most of the Insurance companies now with their Indian partner and rechristened names viz. Tata-AIG / Bajaj Allianz / ICICI Lombard / Iffco Tokiyo picked the clues from international markets including re-insurance companies like Swiss-Re / Munich-Re etc. And look at where we stand today. Indian Insurance products are perhaps 30% cheaper than international markets and the best news is that the Insurance companies are well on their profitable / break-even path. This is our genius or I would say smartness of Indian Insurance Underwriters and Business Development guys who managed to achieve critical mass with less loss ratio at an amazing speed.

Why LIC is most famous and aggressive Life Player in India? Because, besides products they have the extensive-most distribution channel any business development or marketing guy could ask for. The Feet on Street (FOS) and branch offices across big and small towns makes Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) as giants. Naturally, new players could not afford to put so many new staff on their pay-rolls so; they came out with an innovative strategy of Bankassurance, with terrific success.

In my initial days with Insurance Industry as I came from Financial Services (FOREX and CREDIT CARD) background, every thing was naturally raw and new. But I could see that Insurance has terrific potential to create wealth for Indians besides heralding a revolutionary new business model. The key catch for success in Insurance apart Underwriting is DISTRIBUTION. You may be wondering, why I am sharing this. Well, as we know Change is the only constant in this universe and here are some more changes in the Indian Insurance Industry. This time it is for Online insurance.


The new buzz word is Online Distribution of Insurance today. The credit goes of ICICI Lombard, who were the first player to see Insurance Online when their competition were still hiring more Feet of Street (FOS), spending millions on wasteful advertizing or opening new branches. ICICI Lombard perhaps is the only company in the world that has huge a depth of Online Products ranging from Travel Insurance to Motor Insurance. Bajaj Allianz followed suit and came out with their smart Online Products too. Both these companies, if I am not wrong, are doing over USD 30 million worth of business every year.

Of Course, if we look at the total Indian Insurance Size, which is over USD 30.00 billion, this sounds like a small amount. But mind you, 75% of total Insurance industry in India is Life Insurance where we still don’t have a single Online player.

Looking at the opportunity and need for a neutral player not selling only A or B Insurance company product, Bonsai Insurance Broking launched India’s first Online Compare and BuyNow Insurance Portal in 2007. The concept is like a shopping Mall where a customer could get all types of policies across Insurance companies at his or her pace without any agent chasing them. The Online Brand is InsuranceMall. Being an Insurance Brokers, unlike an Agent, Bonsai works for the customer. The USP of an Insurance Broker is that it negotiates on behalf of its customer with Insurance companies, hence a sort of guarantee of a right product at a right price. Since our foray into On-line business, we have come a long way, servicing over 50,000 customers. Being the only player in the market is very lonely as traditional Insurance Brokers are Off-line Corporate Sales focused.

But today, I am happy to share that we have competition. Competition is important as it creates a demand pull and pressure back to players, be it Insurance Companies or Insurance Brokers or Insurance Agents. To the best of my knowledge, now India has 3 types of Online Insurance intermediaries who are changing the landscape of how Insurance is bought or sold today. They are:

1. Online Insurance Brokers – Neutral. You can Compare and Buy Policies Online
2. Online Insurance Lead Generators – Collects your Info. Sells lead to Insurance Companies
3. Online Insurance Information Companies – Knowledge bank

Of Course, besides these 3 important players, we have Corporate Agents who solicit business for a Life or Non Life Insurance Company. They are Banks, FI or Travel Agents.

For simplicity sake, let me stick to the Online Insurance Intermediaries as they are agent of change for Insurance in coming times. They are the one who would see the maximum growth in penetration and also will be responsible for new products and aggressive marketing campaigns. They are the one who will get VC or Private Equity participation soon. Very soon.

1. Current Online Insurance Brokers in India (approved by IRDA)

Bonsai Insurance Brokers – http://www.insurancemall.in/
A & M Insurance Brokers - http://www.insurancepandit.com/
Insol Insurance Brokers – http://www.clicktocover.com/


2. Current Online Lead Generators in India

Apna Loan Pvt Ltd. – http://www.apnainsurance.com/
Deals 4 Loans Pvt Ltd. – http://www.bimadeals.com/
Peacock Financial Advisors Pvt. Ltd – http://www.getmeinsure.com/

3. Online Insurance Information Company in India

MFL Net Services Pvt. Ltd – http://www.bimaonline.com/

You may have a direct question. Who will win this On-line race amongst Insurance players in India?

I would say winner will be, absolutely the company that has knowledge and expertise of Internet, SEO, SEM and Insurance Domain. We all know, many new-generation companies were before Google in Search Space but what made Google the power-house was its ability to understand Online Psyche which is way different from Off-line business model. The Online customers are in hurry. Their tolerance level is far less than a Brick & Mortar Insurance Agency set-up. Online customers don’t want GYAAN (too much of Info or Processes before buying) but would want the easy and ability to transact. Online Insurance Portals are not Social Networking Sites, where a visitor would spend hours chatting or sharing his / her pictures with his or her friends. It is a financial services site where the customers want the guarantee that their personal information will be protected, their payment is secured and the quotes are accurate to the last penny.

I am more than happy to see new players joining the Online Insurance market now in India which only mean better products, better services and better premium for consumers. The credit accrues to the Regulator IRDA who has this vision to see Insurance Products reaching across length and width of India. Naturally what is better way other than pushing Online! A customer sitting in Patna or Trivandrum or Kashmir or Orissa has now a level playing field in terms of product availability as his security is just a click away.

I am really excited with the future of Insurance in India particularly Online Insurance. I will be thrilled, if soon we hear the news on India’s first Online Insurance Company viz. GEICO.com or Progressive.com of America. Who knows, they may be on their way to India as USD 30.00 billion market is not readily available any where in the world other than China. Perhaps, that will be the epitome of growth of Indian Insurance and we will all welcome it.

Cheers!

Manish K. Jaiswal
CEO – Bonsai Insurance Brokers Pvt. Ltd.
http://www.insurancemall.in/

Link - Online Insurance in India

International Travel by Senior Citizens – Tips, Insurance and Online

You have been working all your life. You don’t regret having spent most of your adult-hood raising children, giving them comfort and education plus providing for food, shelter and security. You have turned 60 now. It is time to take a much deserved break. Right time to go and see the world around. India is beautiful and you may have seen most of it by now, so why not explore foreign countries. If you are thinking in that direction, then I must tell, that you are thinking right. Don’t wait for another 2 or 5 years as this is the time.

You chose a destination as most of them are great. If you are conscious of your budget, then you may want to explore Thailand. I call it the best value for money for all first time travelers. If you have dreamt about Europe, then trust me, you are not alone. Europe is like India, quite vibrant, beautiful and expensive. But, a trip to Europe, covering UK / France / Italy / Switzerland and Spain will be a trip of a life time. If you still feel that you are young at heart and may want to venture far-out distances then Australia and New Zealand is your place to visit. If your family members are calling you for long time and you want to see the most powerful & wealthiest nation on earth, do come home to USA.

As I said, do travel abroad as it will refresh you. It will make you feel good. It is not indulgence or waste of money but every penny worth spent as you deserve this break after long working years. Besides, there are huge learning and exposure when we travel to see different countries, culture or people. So, travelling abroad can never be a bad deal.

Fortunately now India has many travel agents who would do end-to-end work for you related to Air-Tickets / Visas / Insurance and Forex. If you want an escort trip in a group of like minded people (say 20-30 co-travelers), then I am sure SOTC / TCOOK / Raj / Cox and Kings have best plans suiting all budgets. But mind you, a group travel (GIT) could be hectic. However, if you want to have a peaceful vacation then you may want to go just with your family or friends. Choice is yours as even for individual travel also known as FIT you have may deals available at all Travel Shops or through the Internet.

A savvy traveler should do a research on what is good and what is a must before venturing our for a Dream Holiday. Fortunately, Google is one good avatar, which will help you take an informed decision for your next vacation.

Here is my take that you may keep in mind, when you are making an international trip.

Tickets: Ensure, that you have a confirm ticket for all sectors. Don’t leave home, if any of the destinations is showing wait-list. This is a travel season time and chances are that you may not get to board the plain. Which means you will be stranded. Whether you are buying online Tickets or through your travel agent, ensure you have a valid ticket.

Hotels: Market is competitive, hence both online or offline agent of yours will give your throw-away prices on your hotel stay. Well, on the face of it, that would be great, but ensure that you are staying at the city center, even that means 10-25 dollars extra. Hotels in the heart of the city (close to all tourist attractions) are expensive but they are worth extra dollars. You would not want to spend over 50 dollar daily on travelling just because your travel agent sold you a cheap hotel at the outskirts. What ever your agent says, avoid staying in less than 3 Star Hotel any where during your trip! 4 or 5 Star is just waste of money, unless your company is paying for. This thumb rule is true across United States / Europe / Far East or Middle-East destinations. If you have small children with you, then prefer Holiday Inn as they are always the best bet hotel for a family stay.

Luggage : Well, I don’t need to speak much on this as now Airlines regulate the size and shape of your luggage. If you are coming to United States, then be sure, that you are not carrying over-sized or over-weight luggage, as they have become very strict. Carry a hand-bag always with basis minimum stuff to survive, in-case your baggage is delayed. Trust me, it happens quite often on all routes with all Air-lines.

Pass: You may want to carry passes / tickets etc for Amusement Parks / Eurail / Museums etc. Incase you missed it, no sweat. They are available in plenty at all locations, including your host Hotels. Why to waste your precious FOREX in India, before the start of journey. But, if you are planner and would want to see the world within your budget, then buying these expensive items (tickets / passes etc) up-front in India will be a good move as they may be available with your travel agent.

Forex: Well, all international trips are paid for in foreign Exchange. Still Indian currency (INR) is not accepted as means of purchase abroad. This is where you have to be careful in budgeting, planning and spending. Your Air tickets are paid for in INR, so no issues there. But your Hotel stay, ground transportation etc. is generally paid in Foreign Currency (Forex). Fortunately, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has now very liberal FX rules for Resident Indians. My understanding is that now, you could carry or spend up-to USD 25,000 per calendar year (BTQ) for the international travel. Believe me, it is a good money to see any part of the world with luxury. Forex is a regulated business, hence you are advised to buy only from authorized Bank or Money Changers (FFMC) like Amex / TCOOK or Bonsai Forex. You have options now to carry Cash, Travelers Cheques (TCs), Credit Card or International Travel Card. Your Money Changer should have all the options. Thumb-rule of safe International Travel is to split your money into Cash and Currency Card. Pls don’t carry only Credit Card as no country (including the most advanced country i.e. USA) may not accept Credit Card at all locations. You may need cash to pay the cab or restaurant bills. Now, for the first time in India, you could buy your choice Forex Online from http://www.buynowforex.com/ . Call +91 22 3050305 for any personal help in buying your Forex.

Insurance: This is some thing; you should not compromise at any cost. Don’t leave home without a valid and adequate Travel Medical Insurance with you. Remember, you are going to an alien country and should you fall sick, will not only spoil your trip but could also bring huge financial burden on you or your loved ones. I am sure, you would not want that. The good news is that Travel Medical Insurance from India is very competitive. You don’t need to spend a fortune to cover your piece of mind. However, if you are travelling to United States or Japan, pls. don’t carry less than USD 100K, if you are going abroad for 30 days plus. Falling ill in America is like a curse, so you must avoid it or best hedge the risk by taking a decent Travel Medical Policy. But, here is a catch. If you happen to be 70 plus (Senior Citizens), Indian Insurance companies may not cover you abroad. Any way, if you are travelling for more than 60 days in any part of the world, I would strongly recommend you to buy International Travel Health Insurance. American Global Travel Health Plans could be a good bet. They are expensive, say by around 20%, all right, but they are now available to you Online from Bonsai America, Inc .We have carved out best insurance plans for senior citizens, so that they could enjoy international travel and long term stay without worries. Click the link - Travel Insurance for Senior Citizens. Put in your details, with address New Jersey (Bonsai America HQs) and you are all set. Compare, Buy and Print your policy Online here and now.

I guess and hope, I have covered all important aspects of your international travel. Trust the tips will come handy. So, I wish that your forth-coming vacation shall be a memorable one. Don’t forget to carry your IPod and new electronic camera as they are your best pals abroad to keep you entertained and save your memories.

Have a safe Trip. Buy Insurance.

Bon Voyage.

Manish Jaiswal

for

Bonsai InsuranceMall I Opener

Why Un-Occupied Homes or Home Office is not covered in India?

As a thumb rule, an Un-occupied Home or Home-Office is not covered in India. However, ICICI Lombard General Insurance Home Insurance will cover your un-occupied property up-to 30 days where as Bajaj Allianz will cover it for 4 months. The Logic is simple. According to Risk Under-writing norms, an Un-Occupied home has far greater risk compared to an occupied home.

Insurers believe that when the house is unoccupied for long then the chances of burglary, theft and other Risks multiply. Unoccupied Homes also invite tramps and unauthorized occupants who may leave fire unattended. And in case of fire, when the home or office is unoccupied, it might be for a considerable period of time before the fire is detected and by that time it may get unmanageable.

This non-cover condition for non-occupancy is applicable for fire insurance, shop insurance, Office Package Policy too.

So, if you want to really want to cover your home during your planned vacation over 30 days, you are strongly advised to inform your Broker and Insurance company at-least 10 days in advance about your absence and return date. It is always good to put the travel notice in writing to avoid any lapse. Also get a written confirmation from the company, clearly stating that your property is covered during the un-occupancy period. Don’t worry, your Insurance Broker will do this paper work for you. Another reason, why you should deal with a dependable Broker?

To convince your insurance company about the precautions taken by you, you could state that you have made arrangements such as informing your neighbors to pay a visit to your residence once in a week. Also you could install burglary and fire alarms and communicate the same to your insurer.

If these are some of the steps you have taken, the Insurance Cover Exclusions are relaxed to a large extent. Else you may not benefit from your householders policy when you need it the most. Of Course, if your family member is staying or your permanent care-taker is staying back in your house while you are away, then you are fully covered.

As always, please read the fine prints on Inclusions and exclusions before buying your choice Home Insurance.

Buy Insurance. Stay Safe.

Manish Jaiswal
Bonsai Insurance Broking Pvt. Ltd.

for - www.InsuranceMall.in/Blog

Does Office Health Insurance Cover OPD or only In-Patient / Operative expenses? by Mr Chirag Patniak

I have a query on company provided medical insurance? (I've never used it so I don't know) Does this cover OPD expenses as well or only inpatient/operative expenses? Asked by Mr Chirag Patniak.

Dear Chirag :

It really depends on what kind of policy your company has taken for its staff.

Generally a large company segregates the cover benefits based on seniority or job role. Management Team in a company generally would have high coverage (any thing between Rs 2-25 Lacs Cash-less floater) with comprehensive plan including Parents.

But since Health expenses are growing in double digit now in India too, many companies prefer to cover just the immediate family and not the parents because of high Annual Premium. Also, based on negotiations an Insurance Broker does with Insurance Companies on behalf of the Corporate, Pre-Existing ailment / Maternity / OPD or Annual Health Check-up could get appended or excluded.

Remember an Insurance Plan is like an individual serving (Entrée), more items (read Risk Features) you add from the menu and more it becomes expensive.

So, essentially, it boils down to the budget a corporate allocates for Staff well-fare or in other words smart saving negotiations done by the chosen Insurance Broker from Insurance Companies on behalf of the Corporate.

I am confident, in your case, OPD / Pre-Existing and Maternity should have been covered as you belong to a big and branded Group in India.

More on these nuances of Health Insurance, its merits etc. could be read at Insurance Mall Blog. I invite you to read them for your information. Here is the link - https://www.insurancemall.in/blog/

Good Luck Chirag. You can always encourage your HR or Finance Head to take an informed decision by out-sourcing the Insurance negotiations to an able Broker this season. It does not cost a penny to the company as Brokers are paid directly by the Insurance Company. Bonsai Insurance Broking team would be more than happy to work for your group.

Buy Insurance and Stay Safe.

Cheers !!!

Manish Jaiswal

for http://www.newsandreviews.in/

Link - http://www.buynowindia.com/newsandreviews/index.php/insurance/

What is a good Policy for my parents ? Asked by Dr Sagar Bhargava

Hi ! This is Dr Sagar. My parents wish buy a Health Insurance Policy for themselves. My mother has no preexisting illness and her age is 54. My father has undergone a Bypass Surgery and is 57 yrs. Can u guide us as to which policy will cover them both for next 15 years. Thanks. Dr Sagar Bhargava.

Dear Dr Sagar :

Thanks for your mail and query. We will be glad to guide you to the best Health Policy for your parents.

Fortunately, both of them are in good age to pick the right policy but is should be bought on a yesterday basis as their age is getting into High Risk Age Zone (HRAZ). Your dad my encounter some problem as Insurance Companies don’t cover Pre-Existing disease for at least 2-4 yrs. Insurance companies are not charitable organizations, hence they are very selective in picking a risk (read providing Insurance cover) from an individual or a family. They are still lenient to cover a bad risk when it comes to Group Insurance because premium is high and Insurance works on the principle of large numbers .

I would recommend the following Insurance companies in the preference order.

1. Apollo DKV
2. Star Health
3. Reliance Health-wise
4. Bajaj Allianz Family Floater
5. ICICI Lombard
6. Govt. Insurance companies

I am sure, you could see them at www.InsuranceMall.in (Click & Buy at Health Insurance Options).

My colleague Mr Mahavir Chopra has written number of articles on Health Insurance. You could read them on our Insurance Blog. Quick link – https://www.insurancemall.in/blog/

Good Luck Dr Sagar. Take your choice. Buy do encourage your parents take Insurance with Critical Care ASAP.

Buy Insurance and Stay Safe.

Cheers !!!

Manish Jaiswal

for www.NewsandReviews.in

Link - http://www.buynowindia.com/newsandreviews/index.php/insurance/

Movie Review - American Gangster (2007)

· Film : American Gangster
· Director : Ridley Scott
· Producer : Brian Crazer
· Cast : Denzel Washington, Russell Crowe
· Studio : Universal Studios
· Rating : 4 on 5 Star

American Gangster, the 2007 Hollywood flick is a great movie. It is on Mafia, Drugs and Violence. I liked it though not every one in my family found it so exciting. Two superstars a) Denzel Washington and b) Russell Crowe have given a terrific performance in this movie.

The flick sets the time of late 60’s and early 70’s, when America was coping up with very un-popular Vietnam War on one hand and the onslaught of drugs on the other hand.

Dated footage of the War, appearance of President Nixon, arrival of Micro-waves as wonder machine in American kitchens, transition from Black & White TV to color sets, make this movie another good reason to watch.

The movie ‘American Gangster’ hinges on the rise and fall of Franck Lucas (Denzel Washington) – the Drug Don of Harlem (up-town NYC), between year 1963-73. Russell Crowe is Richie Roberts, the out-cast but honest cop of New Jersey (Jersey City). The Police Commissioner can only rely on him to end the growing menace of drugs on American streets and rampant corruption in the Police force.

American Gangster draws strength from true events. If so, then it does manage to paint American Military in bad light as they were shown responsible for carrying drugs from Saigon (Thailand) to America during the Vietnam war.

Over all a nice movie with its own pace and action. I would rate it 4 on 5 stars.

Cheers!!!

Manish Jaiswal

For
News and Reviews

Link - http://www.buynowindia.com/newsandreviews/index.php/Films/

Health Insurance in America

OK… In the series of my writings on Insurance and particular Health Insurance, I feel like dwelling more for the benefit of 6.00 Million Indian Americans residing in United States. Here it goes…

Amongst the expenses for Americans, Health cost could be easily adjusted as top 3 monthly expenses after Mortgage (Rent) and Food. For lucky ones who get the Health Cover from their employer, the cost may not exist, but for the Self Employed / Students or Retirees, the cost is un-bearable and growing year on year. I am sure, India is no different now, but still health cost is not as expensive as in America. It will not be an aberration to mention that falling sick without medical Insurance in United States is a sin, thus every resident as well as visitor to this country must ensure that he or she is adequately covered. The bad news is that over 40 million resident Americans are not even having a basic cover.

Even someone having a Health Card (Insurance), one may not really know what is covered or not, unless one has read the Policy fine prints on Inclusions or Exclusion. A simple common exclusion could be Ambulance charge. Thus the thumb rule is that any thing less than USD 500K Comprehensive Coverage for a family of 4 will fall short in case of medical emergencies. You are in better position, incase you are part of the Group Health Plan purchased by your company. Higher the members in your plan, better you are in terms of coverage and inclusions.

Individual or Family Health Insurance holder may not get the renewal, if the claims were high last year. To protect millions, Lawmakers in several American states are limiting insurers' ability to cancel health policies for consumers who buy their own coverage. It is been reported that over 18 million people have individual or family coverage in United States.

Unlike group health policies offered by employers, individual plan may require applicants to submit many years' worth of detailed medical information. The insurers use that information in deciding whether to offer coverage and how much to charge. Most states allow insurers to revoke an individual policy — generally within two years (called contestable period in Insurance parlance) of granting it — if they find an applicant lied or inadvertently omitted information on an application. Cancellation of a policy is retroactive. Patients must pay for all their past medical care, even if the insurer previously approved and paid for the care. There is little nationwide data on the extent of cancellations.

Prompted by numerous consumer complaints and lawsuits against insurers, state lawmakers are finally taking some action. Worth mentioning are :

• New Mexico : The Legislature this month passed bills requiring insurers to show that applicants deliberately gave incorrect information on an application. Current law allows cancellation if the error or omission was inadvertent.

• Connecticut : In October, a new law took effect requiring approval from the state insurance commissioner before an insurer can cancel an existing policy.

• California : Legislation introduced last week would require insurers who want to cancel a policy to first win approval from the state's Department of Managed Health Care. Last year, legislators adopted a law requiring insurers to pay for any medical treatment they approve, even if they later cancel the policy. California state regulators have announced cancellation-related fines against some insurers, including Blue Cross, Kaiser Permanente and Blue Shield of California.

• New York : The Governor Eliot Spitzer may come out with some limiting clause soon.

Insurance companies argue that only a small percentage of policies are cancelled vis-à-vis the live policies. They say the action is necessary to protect against fraud, such covering up medical conditions. "To the extent that applicants aren't honest and forthright about their health care status, that means costs are shifted to everyone else," says Karen Ignagni, president of the industry lobbying group America's Health Insurance Plans. I kind of agree with this argument. USA Today reports that Blue Cross of California has said it cancels less 1% of all new policies.
This debate will go on but fact of the matter is that Insurance in America is expensive. It is expensive because managing Health Care (Doctors / Medicines & Infrastructure) is really expensive out here.

Fortunately for Indians in America (Non Citizens only) or any where in the world, one can buy less expensive American Health Insurance from http://USA.InsuranceMall.in (Click Visitors Health). There is no medical test required and the Health Card could be printed On-line today. The (Visitor)Health Insurance Plan is created exclusively for non Americans and is cheaper vis-à-vis American Health Insurance for Americans. It could be a good Health Policy for you if you are H1 / L1 / F1 / J1 and Green Card Visa Holder in United States.

Cheers. Enjoy and Stay safe.

Manish Jaiswal
CEO – Bonsai America, Inc.
http://usa.insurancemall.in/


for

http://www.newsandreviews.in/

Link - http://www.buynowindia.com/newsandreviews/index.php/Insurance/

What are the challenges to market a website in India?

It is a tough question because a correct answer means finding the right solution too. Like any product, marketing a website has similar set of problems except the rejection rate for a website in question could be pretty high vis-à-vis a commercial product or services in the Off Line space. Offline offerings may have more tolerance compared to Online offerings.

I guess, like any where else be it America or India, the biggest challenge for the marketer or the owner of the Website (either transactional or info site) remains, how to reach masses on a yesterday basis at minimum cost. Fortunately in America, no sooner the Website build the traction, the company gets the credit line (loan) at competitive rate. However, for an Indian company trying to put a successful website on the world-wide-web, will not only have to work hard but pray hard too to get either funding or a credit line from a bank.

The Indian banks are pathetic as they would want to see 2-3 yrs of Balance Sheet with Profits, because they just don’t understand these new Online business avatar, where there is no inventory but only human and tech capital.

I know lot of successful managers and marketing people, working either in a Funded company or affiliated to Industrial house with some Online diversification, will come out with simple text book GYAAN, that try Google or put your Ad (TVC) on electronic media etc etc. However, fact of the matter is, that how a new start-up could afford these expensive marketing / branding medium to reach masses? How would one build customer traction or media traction without capital or aggressive cash flows , even one has done a great job of filling the expectation gap (Read Value Proposition in VCs language)?

So, the biggest challenge for any new website in India is Capital. If one could crack this piece, other things – Technology, Scalability, Value Adds, Marketing, Branding etc. could be managed as India has depth of such talents to manage other fringe hurdles of a new business. What you can’t hire is some one who is confident or even experienced to raise capital for the new venture as Online / Start-ups / Investment Banking etc is a new phenomenon in India till date. Having solved the capital issue will bring the other untold challenge of hiring quality people who understands the psychology of the online business. It is a different animal all together. A great offline Sales, Business development or Marketing resource may not be able to crack this piece with ease.

All markets are different and difficult. Any new solution that solves the existing problem gives the room for new services and the case in point is - Online services. Whether it is India or America, (I can say this with confidence as I have lived all my corporate life in India and now for last 2 plus yrs in USA), the challenges to reach your base are same, only degree varies. In fact, I find sales and marketing in America is far tougher then in India because of enormous scale (50 states) and operational cost. With a modest budget of say USD 250K and smart marketing plan, one may still manage to push products / services in India with good ROI, where as it may cost over USD 2.00 million to achieve the same in the USA.

So, the debate about Indian market is different or difficult or it is more Touch-and-feel market are old management thoughts. Fact of the matter is that if Naukri.com or IRCTC or Shaadi.com became so successful, it means India and Indians are ready for new services or buying options from web portal, that is geared for servicing the latent needs.

With disposal income rising and Indians ready to experiment with new ideas and new way of life, we will see more and more quality web sites coming up on every opportunity space, be it Finance , Insurance, Forex, Banking, Stock trading, HR, Retail, Travel or Shopping. India is a beautiful market and very lucrative too, if one knows how to crack the Capital piece and of course the Branding piece ASAP.


Cheers !!!

Manish K. Jaiswal
manish@bonsaiinternational.com
CEO – http://www.insurancemall.in/

Link - http://www.buynowindia.com/newsandreviews/index.php/MKJ/

Career Trends - Start-ups are good option for talented Indians now

Very few HR executives, education institutions or successful CEO’s have touched upon this subject that Start-ups could also be a great option for aspirants in charting their careers in Corporate India today.

We have a mind-set that ‘Branded Study’ or and ‘Branded Career’ is the only road to success. Talk to any young graduate in Delhi or Mumbai University and you will hear one aspiration only - “ I want to join an MNC”. In fact this aspiration amongst Indians, are bestowed upon by parents and society at large. Look at Campus recruitment results of IITs or IIMs, you would not find a single soul opting for entrepreneurial career or career in a start-up. Even in B category management and engineering schools, it is the same story to some how get into the secured branded company or the Multi Nationals. Practically, all would want to join Consulting, Banking or would want to take up a job placement abroad.

Our terrific talent in India, either get absorbed into Corporations or into management schools post graduation, thus we miss out to garner the lateral and creative side of Indians or spark of new technologies, badly needed for future growth to compete with the changing world. Only when we have an environment where a young talent is excited to join the Start-ups or Innovation Labs, we could expect India delivering world changing products or ideas, lest we will remain the body-shopper for the world as is the case with China – Factory of the world.

I was impressed to read an article today in New Your Times that how best and the brightest talents in America (Silicon Valley phenomenon) from Stanford clamor to join Start-ups or New Tech companies like Google or Facebook vis-à-vis old behemoths like Microsoft / Oracle or Yahoo.

GARY RIVLIN and KATIE HAFNER reports in NYT today that engineering students stood as many as six lanes at the Google recruitment table at a job fair at Stanford last fall. Facebook’s representatives faced a similarly thick crowd vying for a few minutes of their time. At the Microsoft and Yahoo tables though, by contrast, students looked, but generally did not linger.
“Engineers in America want to work on tomorrow’s technology, not yesterday’s,” according to Bill Demas, quotes NYT, who worked at Microsoft through much of the 1990s and then at Yahoo until leaving last year. He is now chief executive at Moka5, a start-up of around 30 people based in Silicon Valley’s Redwood City. “If it’s perceived that Yahoo or anyone else is not focused on the future, it’s going to be very difficult to recruit top people,” Size is also an issue. For many young engineers, the future is in tiny start-ups, which offer a cozier work environment and greater ownership over a project, as well as the potential for a big payoff if the company is bought or sells shares to the public.

NYT gives a an example of Ben Newman, 23, who expects to graduate from Stanford in June with a master’s degree in computer science, is among those young pedigreed engineers who prefer the intimacy and excitement of a smaller company over the security of a large, established one. A merged Microsoft-Yahoo “definitely decreases my interest in either company,” said Mr. Newman, who interviewed with Facebook, the start-up of the moment, but took a job with Mozilla, creator of the Firefox browser.

Money, of course, is a factor in almost any engineer’s job-choosing calculus. Many of those students descending on recruiters from Google and Facebook were no doubt motivated by the idea of becoming rich in exchange for just a few years of hard work. Yet in Silicon Valley there is also the cool factor, and the prospect of potentially working on the hot new thing.

Even Google now, with 17,000 employees, has lost some of its luster as a top spot for engineers as the potential for big gains in its share price has begun to diminish. The company still receives more than 20,000 résumés a week, or two every minute, according to Sunny Gettinger, a Google spokeswoman. But it is also starting to lose engineers to start-ups and budding Valley stars like Facebook, including engineers like Pedram Keyani. NYT quotes Mr. Keyani, 30, started work at Google in June 2005, then left last summer for Facebook, which then had around 300 employees.

So, in essence the world is changing and it is changing fast. If one is looking at creating wealth in next 3 yrs for self, then one has to look at career switch into start-ups. It is true, that one could get an easy appointment for business, if one is working for a branded company and may have initial success and social value plus secured monthly pay-cheques, but that not be sufficient to motivate you for long. If more and more people will start getting richer and successful through Stock-Option routes (A start-up phenomenon), then we could expect a proper mix of corporate India, where we would have depth of talents spread across all types of organizations.

Indeed that will be a welcome change.

Manish K. Jaiswal
CEO – http://www.InsuranceMall.in

for
http://www.NewsandReviews.in (MKJ Blogs)

Link - http://www.buynowindia.com/newsandreviews/index.php/MKJ/

Career Trends - Start-ups are good option for talented Indians now

Very few HR executive, education institution or successful CEO’s have touched upon this subject that Start-ups could also be a great option for aspirants in charting their careers in Corporate India today.

We have a mind-set that ‘Branded Study’ or and ‘Branded Career’ is the only road to success. Talk to any young graduate in Delhi or Mumbai University and you will hear one aspiration only - “ I want to join an MNC”. In fact this aspiration amongst Indians, are bestowed upon by parents and society at large. Look at Campus recruitment results of IITs or IIMs, you would not find a single soul opting for entrepreneurial career or career in a start-up. Even in B category management and engineering schools, it is the same story to some how get into the secured branded company or the Multi Nationals. Practically, all would want to join Consulting, Banking or would want to take up a job placement abroad.

Our terrific talent in India, either get absorbed into Corporations or into management schools post graduation, thus we miss out to garner the lateral and creative side of Indians or spark of new technologies, badly needed for future growth to compete with the changing world. Only when we have an environment where a young talent is excited to join the Start-ups or Innovation Labs, we could expect India delivering world changing products or ideas, lest we will remain the body-shopper for the world as is the case with China – Factory of the world.

I was impressed to read an article today in New Your Times that how best and the brightest talents in America (Silicon Valley phenomenon) from Stanford clamor to join Start-ups or New Tech companies like Google or Facebook vis-à-vis old behemoths like Microsoft / Oracle or Yahoo.

GARY RIVLIN and KATIE HAFNER reports in NYT today that engineering students stood as many as six lanes at the Google recruitment table at a job fair at Stanford last fall. Facebook’s representatives faced a similarly thick crowd vying for a few minutes of their time. At the Microsoft and Yahoo tables though, by contrast, students looked, but generally did not linger.
“Engineers in America want to work on tomorrow’s technology, not yesterday’s,” according to Bill Demas, quotes NYT, who worked at Microsoft through much of the 1990s and then at Yahoo until leaving last year. He is now chief executive at Moka5, a start-up of around 30 people based in Silicon Valley’s Redwood City. “If it’s perceived that Yahoo or anyone else is not focused on the future, it’s going to be very difficult to recruit top people,” Size is also an issue. For many young engineers, the future is in tiny start-ups, which offer a cozier work environment and greater ownership over a project, as well as the potential for a big payoff if the company is bought or sells shares to the public.

NYT gives a an example of Ben Newman, 23, who expects to graduate from Stanford in June with a master’s degree in computer science, is among those young pedigreed engineers who prefer the intimacy and excitement of a smaller company over the security of a large, established one. A merged Microsoft-Yahoo “definitely decreases my interest in either company,” said Mr. Newman, who interviewed with Facebook, the start-up of the moment, but took a job with Mozilla, creator of the Firefox browser.

Money, of course, is a factor in almost any engineer’s job-choosing calculus. Many of those students descending on recruiters from Google and Facebook were no doubt motivated by the idea of becoming rich in exchange for just a few years of hard work. Yet in Silicon Valley there is also the cool factor, and the prospect of potentially working on the hot new thing.
Even Google now, with 17,000 employees, has lost some of its luster as a top spot for engineers as the potential for big gains in its share price has begun to diminish. The company still receives more than 20,000 résumés a week, or two every minute, according to Sunny Gettinger, a Google spokeswoman. But it is also starting to lose engineers to start-ups and budding Valley stars like Facebook, including engineers like Pedram Keyani. NYT quotes Mr. Keyani, 30, started work at Google in June 2005, then left last summer for Facebook, which then had around 300 employees.

So, in essence the world is changing and it is changing fast. If one is looking at creating wealth in next 3 yrs for self, then one has to look at career switch into start-ups. It is true, that one could get an easy appointment for business, if one is working for a branded company and may have initial success and social value plus secured monthly pay-cheques, but that not be sufficient to motivate you for long. If more and more people will start getting richer and successful through Stock-Option routes (A start-up phenomenon), then we could expect a proper mix of corporate India, where we would have depth of talents spread across all types of organizations.

Indeed that will be a welcome change.

Manish K. Jaiswal
CEO – http://www.insurancemall.in/

for
http://www.newsandreviews.in/ (MKJ Blogs)

Link - http://www.buynowindia.com/newsandreviews/index.php/MKJ/

Microsoft taking over Yahoo is a good news !!!

I have seen that lot of ink has been spilled over Microsoft’s hostile bid for Yahoo. Also, how Steven A. Ballmer was curt this time, when he announced intentions to the Board and Jerry Young, the Founder CEO of Yahoo, Inc. Microsoft has offered USD 46.6 billion in Stocks and Cash to take over Yahoo. The offer of $ 31 per share is a huge 62% premium over Yahoo’s closing stock price of $ 19.18 on Thursday. It is, Of course a far-cry from its peak of $ 118.75 in 2001.

I take this opportunity to explain how and why this deal may be a good news for SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) and Start-ups with limited sales and marketing budgets.
Like ever one, let me also concede upfront that Google is a great technology company founded by Larry Page and Sergey Brin, both Stanford graduates, like Yahoo founders Jerry Young and David Filo.

As an avid user of Internet as well as having built an online company to promote comparison Insurance shopping : http://www.insurancemall.in/ , Team Bonsai and I use Google extensively to remain relevant in the Online space. Hence I can say with confidence that there is no match for Google when it comes to Search Engines. They just don’t have parallel as on today and that is the curse for Internet users, because Google has virtual monopoly on the Internet space across globe without dispute.

This concerns me and may initiate users to highlight the pain areas in the internet marketing business model. Lets face it and acknowledge a fact now that Google is extremely expensive marketing medium and should be exercised as a last resort by any new company trying to successful with limited budgets .

Google Ad program is perhaps a biggest marketing success story by any marketer of any medium be it Electronic, Paper or Internet. Management schools should make Google as a first case study in their curriculum on how it made billions on search marketing business model, unheard and unseen before. Even when recession is hitting America and all businesses, Google has announced the robust growth in its AD earnings for the quarter.

Google is a great company and is doing very well with huge cash flows. No Problem, but what is there for SMEs and Start-ups who in first place made Google such a rich company. The small companies struggles to manage break-even owing to many un-controllable costs and moving targets goes with the easy bet of Google marketing. The collective thinking is that Google charge, advertising companies based on results (PPC – Pay Per Click) and that is the only way to succeed on the Online space (SEM – Search Engine Marketing). On face of it, Google has fair costing mechanism (the PPC concept) where small or big budget companies fits in with ease. How ever, in reality, the small business ends up spending huge and more money to get the search result first page (SRFP) in the hope that more Hits would bring sure business.

My experience of Google Hits to conversion ration is pathetic 100 : 3. It means that every 100 hits, one may get only 3 sure conversions (real sales). SEM mechanism, sure based on your budget gives you desired hits, but the purpose of spend is always sales and associated brand recall which miss big time incase for Google Ad’s. There is no researched data here but I am sure that the thumb rule results of Google marketing is only 60% ROI (return on investment), so it does not help small companies.

I am aware, that revenue margin differs, based on industry, but Google ROI may not be over 50-60% band. I am happy to change my theory or assertion, if there is any credible evidence of better conversion across industries around the globe. And this is the crux of my story that Microsoft taking over Yahoo will bring the cost of Internet marketing down and a level playing field for all. Today, Google has free hand to price its services as consumers have no choice as on today. It is high time that Google should also get some genuine competition now. They are growing unabated by garnering 25-50% of all marketing budgets of any company with limited ROI or success for the advertising companies.

It is also important for shareholders of Google to ask the Google management team to come out with a new revenue model as the present golden goose search engine Ads model will start giving diminishing returns for this great company soon. Even companies particularly Start-ups looking for a quick money source through program like Ad Sense will have better options from Yahoo and Microsoft soon. The competition from Microsoft will force Google to charge reasonable from consumers to place Ads on its Search Page which will improve the ROI to acceptable levels of 80-90% band.

Big and innovative player, chart the course for new business opportunities and options hence time has come for Microsoft to regain its leadership position now. The Yahoo deal will give the must wanted latitude to Steve now.

Cheers !!!

Manish Jaiswal
CEO – Bonsai International Group
http://www.insurancemall.in/
http://www.buynowindia.com/
http://www.newsandreviews.in/