Nikhil:

There is scope for vertical SNS to play a role in the Indian social networking scene. But they have a different role to play. I will try to cover my take on vertical vs. General social nets in my next article.

Anand:

There is a strong need for localized social networking sites. We have seen a positive user response to social nets that are sensitive to local communication and entertainment needs.

I would like to differ with your point on the "limited usability" of social nets. It is all about what a social platform is designed and used for. I agree that we are yet to see a revolutionary platform. But we will get there soon.

About users stickiness to a SNS: Look at how people are moving to Gmail and putting in all the effort to tell their friends that they are not on Yahoo or Hotmail anymore. So shift is possible as long as you position your service right and offer the right features.

I agree with you on the need for radical innovation. I am sure we will see it soon. There is lot of innovative work happening in many startups. They are just trying to time it right. (at least that is the case with us at Indyarocks.com)