Net lures 40 lakh to tie knot

MUMBAI: The estimated market size of online matrimonial search is expected to touch Rs 80 crore in FY 2007-2008 as compared to a projection of Rs 20 crore, during the current fiscal. According to the findings of a research study on "Online Matrimonial Search" by Internet & Online Association (IOA), today online matrimonial search subscribers number 4,000,000 as compared to 2,250,000 in June 2003.






The survey also revealed that the average time spent by visitors on matrimonial searches is 19 minutes while the average time spent by subscribers on matrimonial searches is 34 minutes. Male / Female ratio matches the current Internet gender ratio of 69 percent/ 31 percent. Cost per month/s per subscription ranges from Rs 400 - Rs 950.





According to the survey, the medium is used mainly because it creates the opportunity to meet people one would otherwise never meet. It also offers privacy and confidentiality and women regard this as a big advantage. Two main reasons for not using the service were perceived lack of trust cited - 84 percent and embarrassment - 16 percent.





Commenting on the huge growth in the online matrimonial search, IOA president Preeti Desai said, "The growth is impressive and can be attributed to its unique search and match functionality or the fact that it starts as a free service and makes individuals and families to pay only once convinced. Its wide acceptance will be further propelled by the fact that there are four million highly eligible Indians searching for their appropriate partners from India as well as other countries USA, UK and UAE."