MAM
Star Plus adds 25 GRPs
MUMBAI: Leading Hindi general entertainment channel (GEC) from Star Network bouquet, Star Plus, has gained 25 GRPs in the week ended 18 February.
As per TAM data (C&S, 4+, HSM), the channel has clocked 298 GRPs (gross rating points), up from 273 GRPs in the previous week. The addition of the points can be attributed to the telecast of ‘mahaepisode’ of Star Plus’ fiction property Yeh Rishta Kyaa Kehlata Hai on 18 February that recorded 3.7 TVR.
Star Plus also aired Bodyguard on Sunday that registered 1.8 TVR. The top fiction shows of the channel have also seen an improvement in performance.
Meanwhile, Sony Entertainment Television has maintained its second rank, even though it added just one GRP to end the week with 210 GRPs. The channel is expected to show a rise in ratings next week as it telecast Filmfare Awards on 19 February.
However, Colors and Zee TV lost eyeballs and closed the week with 193 GRPs (last week 208) and 179 GRPs (last week 202) respectively. Both the channels slipped below the 200-GRP mark.
Colors had added 18 GRPs last week with the telecast of special programme Umang, while Zee TV had a boost of over 32 GRPs on the back of Zee Cine Awards 2012.
Sony’s second GEC, Sab, lost one GRP to clock 141 GRPs while Star Network’s sibling channel Life OK lost 9 GRPs to end the week with 78 GRPs (last week 87).
Imagine TV with 58 GRPs (last week 57) is next in the ladder.
Air travel has changed a lot over the years. It is no longer just about reaching a destination. It is about comfort, experience, and convenience. Airlines and banks now work closely to make travel smoother and more rewarding. These partnerships go far beyond free miles or airport lounges. They shape how people plan, pay, and enjoy their journeys. Several banks have actively moved to become part of this shift, which has helped customers experience travel in smarter ways.
Earlier, airline partnerships focused mainly on reward points. You earned miles and redeemed them for flights. That was the main attraction. Today, expectations are higher. Travellers want value at every step, from booking to boarding and beyond.
How Travel and Banking Are Now Connected
Modern travellers want seamless experiences. They want fewer steps and fewer surprises. This is where airline-bank partnerships step in. Payments, rewards, upgrades, and offers now work together smoothly.
When you use a partnered card, the travel experience feels more connected. You earn rewards faster, get better offers, and get recognition as a loyal customer. This makes travel more enjoyable, even before the trip begins. Banks and airlines design these partnerships to fit everyday lifestyles, not just frequent flyers.
The Shift from Miles to Meaningful Benefits
Miles are still useful, but they are no longer the only attraction. Today’s travellers value flexibility. They want benefits they can actually use. This includes early boarding, travel discounts, easy cancellations, and lifestyle perks.
Airline partnerships now focus on comfort and convenience. They aim to improve the entire journey, not just the flight itself. This shift makes these cards appealing even to people who travel occasionally. As a result, many users explore options when using a credit card online to find cards that match their travel and spending habits.
Why Experience Matters More Than Ever
People now value experiences over points. A smooth booking process. Priority services. Easy check-ins. These details matter more than large reward numbers.
Partnerships between airlines and banks focus on reducing friction. They make travel feel easier and more enjoyable. This builds long-term loyalty and trust.
These benefits also extend beyond travel. Many cards now offer lifestyle rewards that fit everyday life, not just airport visits.
Lounge Access Is Just One Part of the Story
Airport lounges remain popular, but they are no longer the main highlight. Travellers now look for comfort across the entire journey. From faster check-ins to exclusive offers, the experience starts long before boarding.
Many credit cards with lounge access now bundle other travel benefits as well. This makes the overall value much stronger. Lounge access becomes part of a bigger package rather than the only attraction. For instance, you can find credit cards with lounge access by IDFC First Bank.
This shift reflects how travellers think today. They want convenience at every stage, not just a quiet place to sit.
How Banks Are Redefining Travel Rewards
Banks play a key role in shaping these experiences. They analyse how customers travel and spend. Then they build partnerships that offer real value.
Top banks now focus on flexibility and transparency. They aim to make travel benefits easy to understand and easy to use. This helps customers feel confident when choosing a travel-focused card. You can check out the Indigo Dual Card by IDFC First Bank if you travel frequently. The goal is simple. Make travel smoother. Remove friction. Add value where it matters most.
The Future of Airline-Bank Partnerships
As travel evolves, these partnerships will continue to grow. Technology will make rewards more personalised. Offers will become more relevant. Experiences will feel more seamless.
Travellers will expect more than points. They will expect convenience, flexibility, and thoughtful design. Banks and airlines that adapt to this shift will lead the way.
Final Thoughts
Airline-bank partnerships are no longer just about miles and lounges. They are about creating better travel experiences from start to finish. With the right card, travel feels smoother and more rewarding.
When banking and travel work together, every journey becomes easier. That’s what modern travellers value most.
