Which e commerce company became the first online marketplace in India to become a member of the Advertising Standards Council of India, the self regulatory body for advertising?

Introduction / Context:
This question focuses on advertising self regulation and the role of the Advertising Standards Council of India, commonly known as ASCI. It asks which e commerce company became the first online marketplace to join ASCI as a member, signalling its commitment to responsible advertising practices in the digital space.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• ASCI is the self regulatory body that monitors and regulates advertising standards in India.
• The question refers to an e commerce company that became the first of its kind to join ASCI.
• Four major digital or marketplace brands are listed: Amazon, Snapdeal, Paytm, and Flipkart.
• Candidates must pick the company that actually took this step.

Concept / Approach:
The underlying concept is current affairs related to digital advertising and consumer protection. Paytm, a leading digital wallet and e commerce platform, became the first e commerce company to join ASCI, highlighting its intent to follow the advertising code and support responsible marketing. Remembering this headline assists in selecting the correct option.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recognise that ASCI membership is about advertising standards in India.Step 2: Recall news that Paytm joined ASCI as the first e commerce member.Step 3: Compare this memory with the options provided and confirm that Paytm is listed as option C.Step 4: Select Paytm as the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Another way to verify is to remember that this development was reported as a first for an e commerce company and that Paytm was expanding beyond payments into broader online commerce at that time, increasing its exposure to advertising regulations.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A: Amazon is a large global marketplace, but it was not reported as the first e commerce ASCI member in India.
Option B: Snapdeal did not receive this particular distinction in news reports.
Option D: Flipkart is a leading Indian e commerce firm but was not the first member in this context.

Common Pitfalls:
Candidates might be tempted to choose well known players like Amazon or Flipkart purely based on size. However, exam questions often highlight slightly less obvious facts, such as Paytm being the first to join a regulatory body.

Final Answer:
The first e commerce company to become a member of the Advertising Standards Council of India was Paytm.