indian railway advertising

Advertising in Indian Railways

Indian Railways, the largest railway system in Asia, operates an extensive network that spans across the entire country. As the world’s third-largest railway network, it covers a total length of 127,760 kilometers, making it a crucial part of India’s infrastructure.

The network's running track length is 104,647 kilometers, with a route length of 68,426 kilometers, positioning Indian Railways as the fourth-largest national railway system globally. This massive network facilitates the movement of millions of passengers daily, offering a unique platform for advertisers.

Advertising in Indian Railways presents a significant opportunity for brands to reach a diverse and widespread audience. With such an extensive reach and a variety of advertising formats, Indian Railways provides an effective medium for impactful advertising campaigns.

Benefits of Advertising in Indian Railways

Advertising in Indian Railways offers unparalleled benefits due to its extensive reach and diverse audience. The massive network and high frequency of passenger traffic make it an attractive platform for advertisers. 

Additionally, railway advertising is cost-effective and allows for targeted campaigns. This section will explore the major benefits of advertising in Indian Railways, including its massive reach, diverse demographics, high frequency, cost-effectiveness, and targeted advertising opportunities.

Massive Reach

Indian Railways boasts one of the largest passenger networks in the world, transporting millions of travelers daily. This translates to a vast potential audience for your ad campaign. With over 12,000 trains operating and covering thousands of kilometers across the country, advertisers can reach an unparalleled number of people. The sheer volume of passengers ensures that advertisements are seen by a significant number of individuals, increasing the likelihood of brand recognition and recall.

This massive reach is particularly beneficial for national campaigns that aim to promote brand awareness on a large scale. The constant flow of passengers means that ads have the potential to be viewed by new audiences regularly, enhancing the overall impact of the campaign. Moreover, the extensive reach of Indian Railways spans both urban and rural areas, allowing advertisers to penetrate markets that may be difficult to access through other media channels. This comprehensive coverage ensures that brands can connect with a broad spectrum of consumers, from metropolitan cities to remote villages, thus maximizing the potential for market penetration and brand growth.

Diverse Demographics

Train passengers in India come from all walks of life, encompassing various age groups, income levels, and geographic locations. This diversity allows advertisers to reach a broad and varied audience with a single campaign. Whether the target is young professionals, families, or senior citizens, the diverse passenger base ensures that advertisements resonate with multiple demographic segments.

Moreover, the ability to engage with a wide range of demographics means that advertisers can tailor their messaging to appeal to specific groups within the larger audience. For instance, luxury brands can focus on AC first-class passengers, while mass-market products might target general compartment travelers. This flexibility in targeting ensures that advertising campaigns are not only far-reaching but also highly effective in engaging the desired audience segments.

High Frequency

Regular commuters are exposed to railway advertisements frequently, leading to better brand recall and recognition. Many passengers use the train daily or multiple times a week, providing advertisers with numerous opportunities to reinforce their message. This repetitive exposure is a key factor in ensuring that the advertised brand stays top-of-mind for consumers.

High frequency of exposure also means that the message is more likely to be retained and acted upon. Passengers spending extended periods in transit are likely to engage more deeply with advertisements, especially those that are visually appealing or interactive. This captive audience environment enhances the effectiveness of the ad campaign, as repeated interactions with the brand message build familiarity and trust over time.

Cost-Effectiveness

Compared to other advertising mediums, railway advertising can be quite cost-effective, especially when considering the massive reach it offers. The cost per impression is typically lower than that of television, radio, or print media, providing a high return on investment for advertisers. This affordability makes it an attractive option for both large corporations and small businesses looking to maximize their advertising budgets.

Furthermore, the cost-effectiveness of railway advertising allows for longer campaign durations, ensuring sustained visibility and impact. Advertisers can maintain a presence over an extended period without incurring prohibitive costs, which is crucial for building long-term brand recognition. The combination of extensive reach and affordability makes railway advertising a highly efficient marketing tool for achieving broad exposure and engagement.

Targeted Advertising

You can choose specific locations or train routes to target your ideal demographic, maximizing the impact of your campaign. For example, premium products can be advertised on high-end train services like the Rajdhani or Shatabdi Express, which attract affluent travelers. Similarly, regional brands can focus on local trains and stations to reach their specific market.

Targeted advertising ensures that your message reaches the most relevant audience, enhancing the effectiveness of your campaign. By selecting routes and locations that align with the habits and preferences of your target demographic, you can tailor your advertising strategy to achieve better results. This strategic approach not only optimizes reach but also increases the likelihood of converting viewers into customers, thereby maximizing the return on your advertising investment.

Importance of Advertising in Indian Railways

Advertising in Indian Railways serves diverse purposes beyond mere promotion, encompassing revenue generation, economic growth stimulation, public awareness campaigns, information dissemination, and cultural influence. 

Each facet contributes significantly to the railway system's functionality and broader societal impact.

Revenue Generation

Advertising serves as a crucial revenue stream for Indian Railways, supplementing income from ticket sales and government subsidies. This financial influx supports infrastructure upgrades, maintenance projects, and the enhancement of passenger amenities. By diversifying income sources, advertising ensures the sustainability and growth of the railway network, benefiting millions of daily travelers.

The generated revenue enables the railways to invest in modernizing tracks, stations, and rolling stock, thereby improving service reliability and passenger comfort. Additionally, it facilitates the introduction of new technologies and amenities that enhance the overall travel experience. Ultimately, advertising revenue plays a pivotal role in maintaining the efficiency and competitiveness of Indian Railways as a vital mode of transportation.

Economic Growth

Businesses that advertise on Indian Railways often experience heightened brand visibility and increased sales, which, in turn, stimulate economic growth. The exposure to millions of passengers daily translates into expanded market reach and customer engagement for advertisers. This amplified consumer interest can lead to job creation within the advertising industry and among businesses benefiting from increased sales.

Furthermore, advertising supports local and regional economies by promoting products and services specific to different geographical areas. This targeted approach helps businesses capitalize on regional consumer preferences and purchasing behaviors, contributing to regional economic development. As a result, advertising on Indian Railways not only benefits individual businesses but also fosters broader economic prosperity through enhanced market activity and employment opportunities.

Public Awareness

Railway advertisements serve as effective platforms for disseminating public service announcements and social awareness campaigns to a diverse audience. These campaigns can educate passengers on safety protocols, promote health initiatives, raise awareness about environmental conservation, or highlight civic responsibilities. The widespread reach of Indian Railways ensures that such messages reach urban and rural communities alike, fostering a more informed and socially conscious society.

Moreover, advertising campaigns can spotlight local cultural events, festivals, and tourist destinations, promoting regional tourism and cultural exchange. By showcasing cultural diversity and promoting local heritage, railway advertisements contribute to preserving and celebrating India's rich cultural tapestry. This cultural influence helps strengthen national identity and pride among passengers while fostering appreciation for local traditions and customs.

Information Dissemination

Informative advertising within Indian Railways plays a crucial role in keeping passengers informed about new railway initiatives, travel options, service updates, and safety regulations. Ads can educate passengers about train schedules, booking procedures, onboard amenities, and emergency procedures, enhancing overall travel convenience and safety.

Additionally, advertising can highlight new routes, destinations, and tourist attractions accessible via Indian Railways, encouraging passengers to explore and discover new places. This information dissemination not only improves passenger experience but also promotes domestic tourism and economic growth in tourist destinations served by the railway network.

Cultural Influence

Railway advertising subtly reflects and shapes cultural trends by showcasing regional products, fashion trends, and social messages. Ads that celebrate local craftsmanship, traditional attire, or cultural festivals contribute to cultural preservation and appreciation among passengers. This cultural influence helps bridge regional diversity and promotes unity by highlighting shared cultural values and traditions across different parts of the country.

Furthermore, advertising campaigns that promote social causes such as gender equality, environmental sustainability, or community empowerment can inspire positive social change. By aligning with societal values and aspirations, railway advertisements contribute to building a more inclusive and progressive society. Thus, advertising in Indian Railways not only serves commercial interests but also plays a pivotal role in fostering cultural enrichment and social cohesion among passengers.

Ad Format for Advertising in Indian Railways

Advertising in Indian Railways utilizes various formats strategically placed across stations and inside trains to maximize visibility and engagement with passengers. 

From station signage to digital screens and interactive promotions, these formats cater to diverse advertising needs, ensuring brands effectively reach their target audience.

Station Advertising

Station advertising encompasses signage strategically placed on platforms, waiting halls, footbridges, and other high-traffic areas within railway premises. These placements offer high visibility to a captive audience of travelers waiting for trains or moving through the station. Static signage such as banners, posters, and billboards can effectively convey brand messages and promotions to passengers.

The advantage of station advertising lies in its ability to capture the attention of travelers during moments of dwell time, such as waiting for trains or walking through station concourses. These placements are often positioned strategically to ensure maximum exposure, making them ideal for creating brand awareness and reinforcing brand messages. Additionally, station advertising can be localized to target specific demographics or promote local businesses, aligning with regional marketing objectives.

Train Coach Branding

Branding entire trains or specific coaches involves wrapping exteriors with advertisements, creating a visually striking impact on passengers both on the platform and inside the train. Train coach branding allows advertisers to command attention with large-scale visuals that are visible from a distance, making them ideal for promoting campaigns with broad appeal or reinforcing brand presence over extended periods.

Inside the train, branded coaches can feature advertisements on window panels, doors, and other visible surfaces. This interior branding ensures continuous exposure to passengers throughout their journey, enhancing brand recall and message retention. By integrating brand messaging seamlessly into the travel environment, train coach branding creates a memorable impression that resonates with passengers during their commute.

Inside Train Advertising

Inside train advertising offers various formats such as posters, panels, shelf branding on luggage racks, and branding on headrests. These placements allow advertisers to engage passengers directly during their journey, offering sustained exposure to captive audiences. Posters and panels strategically placed inside coaches attract attention and convey brand messages effectively, while shelf branding utilizes functional spaces to reinforce brand presence.

The advantage of inside train advertising lies in its ability to reach passengers in a relaxed environment, where they are more receptive to advertising messages. This captive audience environment ensures that advertisements are seen repeatedly throughout the journey, increasing the likelihood of message retention and consumer engagement. Moreover, inside train advertising can be tailored to specific routes or demographics, allowing advertisers to target their ideal audience effectively.

Audio-Visual Ads

Digital screens displaying audio-visual advertisements are increasingly integrated into railway stations and inside select trains. These screens offer dynamic and engaging ad formats that capture attention through motion, sound, and interactive content. Audio-visual ads provide advertisers with the flexibility to showcase multimedia campaigns, including video clips, animations, and interactive promotions.

At railway stations, digital screens placed in high-traffic areas like concourses and waiting areas attract the attention of commuters during their dwell time. Inside trains, these screens entertain and inform passengers during their journey, offering a modern and engaging advertising experience. The interactive nature of audio-visual ads encourages passenger interaction, increasing brand engagement and fostering a positive brand perception among travelers.

In-Train Activities

In-Train activities involve distributing pamphlets, samples, or conducting promotional activities inside trains to create interactive experiences for passengers. These activities provide direct engagement with travelers, allowing brands to interactively showcase products or services. By distributing promotional materials or organizing demonstrations onboard, advertisers can directly engage with passengers and capture their attention effectively.

The advantage of in-train activities lies in their ability to create memorable brand experiences that resonate with passengers beyond traditional advertising formats. By providing tangible interactions such as product samples or informational pamphlets, brands can influence consumer perceptions and drive purchase intent. Additionally, conducting promotional activities inside trains enhances brand visibility and generates buzz among passengers, fostering a positive brand association and increasing brand loyalty.

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Factors Affecting the Cost of Advertising in Indian Railways

Several factors influence the cost of advertising in Indian Railways, ranging from the location of advertising placements to the format chosen and the duration of the campaign. 

Understanding these factors is crucial for advertisers to optimize their budget allocation and achieve maximum impact with their campaigns.

Location

The cost of advertising varies significantly depending on the station and route chosen within Indian Railways. Stations located in major metros with high passenger traffic command premium rates compared to smaller stations or those in less densely populated areas. Advertising at busy junctions or terminus stations where footfall is high typically costs more due to increased visibility and exposure to a larger audience.

Similarly, the route of the train plays a crucial role in determining advertising costs. Trains traveling popular routes that connect major cities or tourist destinations often attract higher advertising rates compared to trains on less frequented routes. Advertisers targeting specific geographic regions or demographics may choose routes strategically to optimize their advertising spend and reach their target audience effectively.

Advertising Format

The type of advertising format selected significantly impacts advertising costs in Indian Railways. Large-format advertisements such as platform hoardings or full train wraps naturally command higher prices due to their prominent visibility and impact. These formats allow advertisers to maximize brand exposure and ensure their message stands out amidst the hustle and bustle of railway stations and trains.

In contrast, smaller formats such as posters inside train coaches or digital displays at stations may be more cost-effective options for advertisers with budget constraints. Additionally, innovative advertising formats like interactive displays or in-train activities such as product sampling may incur additional costs for logistics, personnel, and specialized equipment required for execution.

Campaign Duration

The duration of the advertising campaign directly influences its cost in Indian Railways. Longer campaigns that span weeks or months with continuous ad placement generally incur higher costs compared to shorter, targeted campaigns. Advertisers looking to build sustained brand awareness and visibility may opt for extended campaign durations, leveraging discounts often offered for bulk bookings or long-term commitments.

Short-term campaigns, such as promotional bursts or seasonal offers, allow advertisers to capitalize on specific events or consumer trends without committing to extended periods. Flexibility in campaign duration enables advertisers to align their advertising strategy with business objectives, whether it's maximizing reach during peak travel seasons or maintaining consistent brand presence throughout the year.

Lighting

The inclusion of lighting in advertising formats within Indian Railways can impact overall costs significantly. Illuminated signage or digital displays that offer enhanced visibility, especially during nighttime or low-light conditions, generally come at a premium. These formats not only ensure better visibility but also create a more dynamic and engaging advertising experience for passengers.

Non-lit options, such as static posters or non-digital displays, may be more cost-effective alternatives depending on campaign objectives and budget constraints. Advertisers seeking to optimize their advertising spend may evaluate the necessity of lighting based on the intended impact and target audience reach across different times of the day or night.

Innovation and Customization

Unique or highly customized advertising formats in Indian Railways, such as interactive displays or experiential marketing activations, often incur additional costs due to their complexity and specialized requirements. The execution of innovative advertising campaigns may involve custom fabrication of materials, advanced technology integration, and logistical coordination, all of which contribute to higher overall costs.

Advertisers investing in innovative formats aim to differentiate their brand and engage passengers through memorable experiences that resonate beyond traditional advertising methods. While these campaigns offer the potential for higher engagement and brand recall, they require careful planning and budget allocation to manage expenses associated with innovation, customization, and logistical execution.

Best Practices for Advertising in Indian Railways

Implementing effective advertising practices in Indian Railways requires strategic planning and creative execution to maximize impact and engagement with passengers. 

By focusing on visual appeal, cultural sensitivity, language diversity, clear calls to action, and strategic campaign durations, advertisers can enhance the effectiveness of their campaigns and achieve measurable results.

Visually Appealing

Creating visually appealing advertisements is essential to capturing the attention of passengers amidst the busy environment of railway stations and trains. Use vibrant colors, bold fonts, and clear messaging that can be easily comprehended at a glance. High-contrast designs and striking visuals help advertisements stand out from the clutter, ensuring they leave a lasting impression on viewers.

Incorporating dynamic elements such as motion graphics or animated content can further enhance visual appeal and engagement. Ensure that the design layout is clean and uncluttered to convey the message effectively within seconds. By focusing on visual appeal, advertisers can attract attention quickly and effectively communicate their brand message to a diverse audience of travelers.

Culturally Sensitive

India's cultural diversity necessitates careful consideration of cultural sensitivities when crafting advertisements for Indian Railways. Avoid using visuals or messages that could be perceived as offensive or insensitive to specific demographic groups or cultural beliefs. Advertisers should conduct thorough research on local customs, traditions, and sensitivities relevant to the regions where their ads will be displayed.

Respecting cultural nuances demonstrates a brand's commitment to inclusivity and enhances the likelihood of positive reception among passengers. Incorporating culturally relevant themes or imagery that resonate with local audiences can foster a deeper connection with viewers and strengthen brand perception. By maintaining cultural sensitivity, advertisers can effectively engage with diverse passenger demographics across different regions.

Local Languages

To maximize engagement with regional audiences, consider incorporating local languages alongside Hindi and English in advertisements displayed in Indian Railways. Localizing content in languages spoken by passengers from specific regions enhances communication effectiveness and relatability. Advertisements that use local languages demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, making them more impactful and relevant to local communities.

Ensure that translations are accurate and culturally appropriate to convey the intended message clearly and respectfully. By speaking the language of the local audience, advertisers can overcome language barriers and effectively communicate their brand proposition, promotions, or call to action. This approach not only increases comprehension but also establishes a personalized connection with passengers, driving higher engagement and response rates.

Call to Action

Include a clear and compelling call to action (CTA) in advertisements displayed in Indian Railways to prompt viewers to take desired actions after seeing the ad. Whether it's visiting a website, calling a phone number, or following social media handles, clearly state what viewers should do next to engage with the brand or avail of promotional offers.

A well-crafted CTA should be concise, actionable, and prominently displayed within the advertisement to facilitate easy follow-up by interested viewers. By providing clear instructions on how passengers can interact with the brand or access more information, advertisers can convert viewer interest into measurable actions and sales leads. Effective CTAs enhance campaign effectiveness and ROI by guiding viewers through the customer journey and encouraging immediate response.

Campaign Duration

Strategically plan the duration of advertising campaigns in Indian Railways to align with marketing objectives and maximize impact. Short-duration bursts are effective for promoting limited-time offers, product launches, or seasonal promotions, creating urgency and excitement among passengers. These short bursts capitalize on the immediate attention of travelers and prompt quick decision-making.

Longer-duration campaigns are beneficial for building sustained brand awareness and maintaining top-of-mind recall among passengers over an extended period. Consistent exposure through prolonged campaigns reinforces brand messaging and strengthens brand perception among target audiences. Advertisers can leverage discounts or incentives offered for bulk bookings to optimize budget allocation and achieve cost-effective campaign outcomes.

Guide for Creating Affective Advertising in Indian Railways

Creating effective advertising campaigns in Indian Railways requires a strategic approach that maximizes visibility, engagement, and impact among the diverse audience of travelers. 

By focusing on key principles such as audience targeting, creative messaging, strategic placement, and measurement of results, advertisers can optimize their campaigns to achieve desired outcomes and maximize return on investment (ROI).

Audience Targeting

Understanding your target audience is fundamental to creating effective advertising in Indian Railways. Define demographic profiles such as age, gender, income level, and travel behaviors of railway passengers to tailor your message accordingly. Consider the diverse backgrounds and interests of travelers to craft messages that resonate and drive relevance.

Segmentation allows advertisers to deploy personalized campaigns that speak directly to the needs and preferences of specific passenger groups. By aligning advertising content with the interests and behaviors of the target audience, advertisers can enhance engagement and increase the likelihood of achieving campaign objectives.

Compelling Creative Messaging

Crafting compelling creative messaging is essential to capturing the attention of passengers in Indian Railways. Develop concise and impactful messages that communicate key benefits or unique selling propositions (USPs) of your product or service. Use clear and persuasive language that resonates with viewers and prompts immediate interest.

Incorporate storytelling elements or emotional appeals that evoke a response from passengers, making your advertisement memorable and impactful. Consider the visual and textual elements of your advertisement to ensure clarity, coherence, and aesthetic appeal that align with brand identity and campaign objectives.

Strategic Placement

Choosing the right placement for your advertisements within Indian Railways is critical to maximizing visibility and exposure. Identify high-traffic areas such as major station concourses, platforms, waiting halls, and inside train coaches where advertisements can reach a large number of passengers effectively.

Opt for placements that offer prolonged exposure and frequent visibility, such as digital screens, station billboards, or wrapped train coaches. Strategic placement ensures that your message is seen by a diverse audience of travelers during various stages of their journey, increasing brand recall and message retention.

Creative Formats and Innovation

Explore creative formats and innovative advertising techniques to differentiate your campaign in Indian Railways. Consider interactive displays, augmented reality experiences, or experiential activations that engage passengers and create memorable brand interactions.

Incorporate dynamic elements such as motion graphics, video content, or audio-visual displays to captivate attention and convey messages effectively. Leverage technological advancements and creative executions to stand out in a competitive advertising landscape and leave a lasting impression on passengers.

Measurement and Analytics

Implement robust measurement and analytics strategies to evaluate the effectiveness of your advertising campaigns in Indian Railways. Define key performance indicators (KPIs) such as reach, engagement, conversion rates, and ROI to track campaign performance and optimize future strategies.

Utilize tracking tools, surveys, or feedback mechanisms to gather quantitative and qualitative data on passenger response and perception. Analyze campaign metrics to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement, allowing for informed decision-making and continuous optimization of advertising efforts.

Integration with Digital Platforms

Integrate digital platforms and online channels to extend the reach and impact of your advertising campaigns in Indian Railways. Leverage social media, mobile applications, or digital signage networks to amplify campaign messaging and engage passengers beyond physical advertisements.

 

Create synergies between offline and online advertising efforts to drive cross-channel awareness and interaction. Develop interactive campaigns that encourage passengers to interact with your brand digitally, fostering deeper engagement and facilitating seamless customer journeys.

Adaptation to Local Contexts

Adapt your advertising content and messaging to resonate with local contexts and cultural nuances prevalent across different regions of India. Consider incorporating regional languages, cultural references, or localized imagery that resonate with passengers and demonstrate cultural sensitivity.

Tailor campaign strategies to align with regional preferences, seasonal trends, or local events to enhance relevance and connection with passengers. By acknowledging and respecting local diversity, advertisers can establish authenticity, credibility, and resonance within Indian Railways.

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Why Choose Ginger Media Group for Advertising in Indian Railways?

Choosing the right advertising partner is crucial for achieving success and maximizing the impact of your campaigns. Ginger Media Group stands out as a premier choice for advertisers looking to leverage strategic insights, creative excellence, extensive network reach, and measurable results in their advertising endeavors within diverse market landscapes.

Strategic Insights and Expertise: At Ginger Media Group, we bring extensive industry expertise and strategic insights that drive effective advertising campaigns. Our team conducts thorough market research, trend analysis, and audience profiling to tailor strategies that align with your brand objectives and resonate with your target audience.

We leverage our deep understanding of consumer behavior, market dynamics, and emerging trends to craft compelling campaigns that deliver impactful results. With our strategic approach, we ensure your advertising investments yield maximum returns and enhance brand visibility across relevant platforms.

Creative Excellence and Innovation: Creativity lies at the heart of our advertising solutions at Ginger Media Group. We pride ourselves on delivering innovative and visually compelling campaigns that captivate audiences and differentiate your brand in competitive market environments.

Our creative team combines artistic flair with strategic thinking to develop engaging content, impactful visuals, and immersive experiences that resonate with viewers. Whether through captivating storytelling, cutting-edge design, or interactive formats, we elevate your brand’s presence and drive memorable engagements.

Extensive Network Reach: Partnering with Ginger Media Group grants access to an extensive network of advertising channels and platforms, including digital, print, broadcast, outdoor, and specialized environments like airports, malls, and transportation hubs.

We leverage our robust network reach to deploy multi-channel campaigns that optimize visibility and audience reach across diverse demographics and geographic regions. Whether targeting local markets or national audiences, we ensure your message reaches the right people at the right time, enhancing brand awareness and driving customer engagement.

Measurable Results and Analytics: Transparency and accountability are core principles at Ginger Media Group. We employ advanced analytics tools and performance metrics to track, measure, and optimize the effectiveness of your advertising campaigns.

From reach and impressions to engagement rates and conversion metrics, we provide comprehensive insights into campaign performance and audience response. Our data-driven approach enables informed decision-making, allowing us to refine strategies in real-time and maximize ROI on your advertising investments.

Client-Centric Approach and Partnership: At Ginger Media Group, we prioritize client satisfaction and long-term partnerships. We adopt a collaborative approach, working closely with you to understand your business goals, challenges, and unique brand identity.

Our dedicated account management team ensures personalized service, proactive communication, and tailored solutions that meet your specific needs and objectives. We are committed to delivering exceptional value, fostering trust, and achieving mutual success through every stage of our partnership.

Ginger Media Group is a 360 degrees marketing agency that specialises in outdoor advertising. With our 7+ years of experience, our team of branding specialists, marketing enthusiasts and data-driven advertisers, we have had the pleasure to serve some of the most well-known brands such as VIBGYOR, OYO, Zomato, Uber Moto, Uber Eats, Chumbak & a lot more.

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