Gift cards have become a popular and convenient option for people who want to give thoughtful and personalized gifts to their loved ones.
With the rise of online shopping and e-commerce in India, gift cards have become an even more accessible and sought-after option.
But with so many different types of gift cards available, it can be difficult to know which is the best choice for you and your recipient.
In this article, we will explore the world of gift cards in India, and whether or not they are a viable option for gifting.
Does India Have Gift Card?
Yes, gift cards are available in India. Many businesses and retailers offer gift cards for their customers to purchase as a convenient and flexible option for gifting.
Gift cards have been available in India for over a decade, with the first ones being introduced in the early 2010s.
Initially, they were only available at a few select stores, but their popularity has led to them being offered at an increasing number of retailers and online marketplaces.
Categories of Gift Cards Available in India
1. Physical Gift Cards
Physical gift cards are traditional, physical cards that can be purchased at a retail store or online. They usually have a specific value that can be redeemed at the store or website of the issuer.
Physical gift cards are a popular choice in India because they are easy to purchase, and they offer the recipient a physical card that they can keep and use whenever they like.
2. Electronic Gift Cards
Electronic gift cards, also known as e-gift cards, are an increasingly popular gift-giving option in India. They are sent directly to the recipient’s email or mobile phone and can be redeemed online or in-store.
Electronic gift cards are an excellent choice for those who want to send a gift quickly or those who live far from India and want to avoid shipping a physical card.
3. Store-specific Gift Cards
Store-specific gift cards are issued by specific Indian retailers or brands, and can only be redeemed at that store or online.
These gift cards are a great choice for people who know exactly what the recipient wants, or for those who want to give a gift tailored to the recipient’s interests and shopping habits.
4. Multi-brand Gift Cards
Multi-brand gift cards, also known as general-purpose gift cards, can be redeemed at various Indian stores and brands.
These gift cards offer more flexibility than store-specific gift cards, as the recipient can use them to purchase what they want whenever they want.
Multi-brand gift cards are a popular choice for Indians who want to give a practical and versatile gift.
5. Customizable Gift Cards
Customizable gift cards are a newer type of gift card in India that allow you to personalize the card with your design, message, or photo.
These gift cards can be customized online and sent directly to the recipient’s email or mobile phone.
Customizable gift cards are an excellent choice for those who want to add a personal touch to their gift and for those who want to make the gift more meaningful.
Types of Gift Cards in India
1. iTunes Gift Card
The iTunes gift card provides Indian Apple device users access to the Apple store, where they can stream, purchase, or download digital content such as music.
The card provides the necessary credit for users to access all content within the store.
The iTunes gift card in India offers Indian users access to the Apple store, where they can enjoy its content. The card code is sent to the user’s email after the purchase and can be redeemed on the Indian Apple store.
2. Amazon Gift Card
The Amazon store is a global retail giant that offers a variety of goods, services, online advertising, and digital streaming. It is widely available in India as well.
The Indian Amazon gift card allows shoppers in India to purchase items from the Amazon store at a discounted price.
Transactions made using an Amazon gift card offer additional savings on items.
3. Steam Gift Card
Steam is a well-known online store for video games, in-game content, and other downloads. It has a huge user base, including in India.
The Steam gift card in India allows users to access the Steam library to purchase video games and other software.
The card comes in various denominations, ranging from INR 130 to INR 3,300.
4. Google Play Gift Card
For Android device users, the Google Play store is an essential tool for accessing and downloading digital content.
The Google Play gift card allows users to purchase digital content from the store. Some content are only available based on the user’s country and jurisdiction. Therefore, an Indian Google Play card is required to access content in India.
The credit from the card can be used to purchase content within the store.
5. Uber Gift Card
Uber is an online platform connecting drivers and passengers for driving and delivery services.
The Uber gift card in India allows users to pay for rides through the Uber app. The card can also be gifted to friends and family for use on the app.
How to Purchase and Use Gift Cards in India
In India, gift cards can be purchased in two major ways – online and in-store. Many online marketplaces, such as Amazon and Flipkart, offer a wide range of gift cards that can be delivered directly to the recipient.
In-store gift cards can be purchased at the customer service desk or a designated gift card kiosk.
Using a gift card in India is simple. To use a store-specific gift card, simply present it at the checkout when making a purchase.
To use a multi-store gift card, the recipient will need to create an account and register the card. From there, they can easily purchase online or in-store at participating retailers.
FAQs
Can I Personalize a Gift Card in India?
Yes, some gift card options allow you to personalize the card with your design, message, or photo.
Can I Use a Gift Card for Online Shopping in India?
Yes, many gift cards can be redeemed in-store and online, depending on the issuer. Some electronic gift cards are specifically for online shopping and can only be redeemed online.
Are there any Fees Associated with Gift Cards in India?
Some gift cards may have an activation or maintenance fee, so it is important to check the terms and conditions of the gift card before purchasing.
Can I Return a Gift Card in India?
Return policies for gift cards can vary, depending on the issuer. Some gift cards are non-refundable, while others may be eligible for a refund or exchange under certain conditions.
It is important to check the terms and conditions of the gift card before purchasing it to understand the return policy.
Conclusion
Gift cards are a popular and convenient gift option in India. They offer various options to suit different needs and preferences.
Whether you are looking for a physical card, an electronic card, or a personalized card, there’s an Indian gift card to suit your needs.
So next time you’re looking for the perfect gift for someone in India, consider a gift card. It’s a thoughtful and practical choice to make your recipient happy. Additionally, for an even more delightful gifting experience, you can explore the Snappy Exchange platform, which offers a seamless and user-friendly way to buy, sell, and exchange gift cards.
