News Headline
Italians partial to World Cup mobile content
MUMBAI: During the Fifa World Cup which took place from 9 June – 9 July 2006, Italians used their mobile to access content from the event more than any other European country.
Research firm Telephia’s Q3 2006 European Subscriber and Device Report (ESDR) shows that six per cent of Italian mobile subscribers accessed World Cup content on their mobile devices, as compared to three per cent for French mobile subscribers. Not surprisingly, European 3G mobile subscribers posted higher rates for accessing World Cup soccer content on their phones at 14 per cent, while only three per cent of non-3G mobile users accessed soccer content.
Penetration Rate of Mobile Subscribers who accessed Fifa World Cup Content
Country Penetration Rate (per cent)
Country Penetration Level
Italy Six per cent
Germany Four per cent
France Three per cent
Sweden Three per cent
UK Three per cent
Spain Two per cent
Telephia VP new products Kanishka Agarwal says, “Soccer enthusiasts across the world are passionate about their sport, and European fans are notorious for their hardcore dedication in supporting their country’s team. Italy secured their first World Cup title in 24 years with a penalty shoot-out victory over France, to the delight of Italian fans.
“The World Cup showcased how important mobile phones have become as a source of immediate information and relevant content for consumers, beyond just a tool to communicate. Soccer fans were able to tap into the frenzy of the games and show their connection and support for their favorite teams through their cell phones”.
Content Type Share
Type of Content Share per cent
Received World Cup text alerts 38 per cent
Accessed World Cup news and information on the wireless
Internet 29 per cent
Downloaded a World Cup ring tone 19 per cent
Downloaded a World Cup wallpaper 15 per cent
Downloaded World Cup video clips 14 per cent
Downloaded a World Cup game nine per cent
Watched World Cup content on mobile TV Eight per cent
Uploaded World Cup pictures/images to the Web Eight per cent
Uploaded World Cup video to the Web Seven per cent
Placed a video call/Sent a video message Five per cent
Others Eleven per cent
Sky Sports was the most watched Mobile TV Channel in Europe for the Fifa World Cup. Eight per cent of European mobile subscribers who accessed soccer content on their phone watched via mobile TV. Sky Sports was the top channel, securing a 14 percent share of World Cup mobile TV users. Overall, World Cup content received through text alerts was most popular (38 per cent), followed by content through wireless Internet at 29 per cent. 19 per cent downloaded a World Cup ringtone, while 15 and 14 per cent downloaded wallpapers and video clips, respectively.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
