From fast food to autos, India’s digitally connected users lure investors

A man pays the vendor through Paytm, a digital wallet company, after buying a book in India. With the cheapest mobile data rates in the world, thanks to intense competition among telecoms providers, and the explosive growth of social media and personal entertainment, Indian consumers are going digital at a breakneck pace. — Reuters

MUMBAI: Mumbai resident Shivam Vahia cannot remember the last time he left home to shop. He spends about 30,000 rupees (RM1,610 or US$364) a month buying necessities like groceries, clothes and gadgets, all by tapping a few buttons on his mobile phone.

“My only offline spends are bars and restaurants, when I go to meet friends,” said the 24-year-old engineering graduate.