Washington, Mar 31 Opinion continues to be divided in the US on whether offshoring or outsourcing of jobs to contries like India is good or bad. A group of Rhode Island technology professionals remain split on whether the "offshoring" wave should be dammed or surfed, the Knight Ridder group of newspapers has reported. The group, about 140 executives and business owners, agreed that offshoring -- the movement of US jobs to foreign countries with lower labour costs -- cannot be ignored. But during a discussion Monday morning at Bryant College, they expressed a number of differing opinions on what the government should, or can, do to keep jobs and create new ones in the US. "If you don't join it, there's no way we'll be able to compete globally," said Raymond Fogarty, director of the Rhode Island Export Assistance Center at Bryant. "But at the same time you have to put up some defences. I' not talking about protectionism, I'm talking about a level playing field." Others at the roundtable took a less defensive approach. Offshoring won't be as much of an issue when "the market becomes robust again," said Ellen Waite-Frazen, vice president of Computing and Information Services for Brown University. "I hope we don't end up in a place where it's tough to offshore politically and economically, because I'm afraid it will hurt us in the long run."
Ganguly ruled out of second Test
Wednesday, March 31, 2004
Multan, Mar 30 Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has been ruled out of the second cricket Test against Pakistan and will return home after no showing no signs of improvement on his back injury. Ganguly, who hurt his back during fielding in the final one-day international, will return on April 1 to consult a specialist doctor back home in Kolkata. The second Test begins in Lahore on April 5. The Indian team management has requested the services of one-day middle order batsman Mohammad Kaif in place of Ganguly. "Physio Andrew Leipus has been working with Ganguly for the past few days but he has shown no sign of improvment," team manager and BCCI Joint Secretary Prof R S Shetty said here today. "Therefore it has been decided that Ganguly will return home fo consult a specialist (doctor) in his hometown." But Shetty said Ganguly was not ruled out of the entire series and could play the third Test starting in Rawalpindi on April 13. "Ganguly will be eligible to play in the third Test if he recovers completely."
Close relatives of key figures in fray in Punjab, Haryana
Wednesday, March 31, 2004
Chandigarh, Mar 30 Several constituencies in Punjab and Haryana are set to witness 'prestige contests' with close relatives of several key political personalities, including that of present and former Chief Ministers in the fray for the Lok Sabha polls. Punjab Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh's wife Praneet Kaur, his predecessor Parkash Singh Badal's son Sukhbir Singh Badal, Haryana Chief Minister Om Prakash Chautala's elder son Ajay Singh and his predecessor Bansi Lal's son Surender Singh were among relatives of atleast six top leaders of the two states who would try their luck in the May ten polls. All the four - Praneet Kaur, Sukhbir Singh Badal, Ajay Singh Chautala and Surender Singh are entering into the fray from their traditional seats of Patiala, Faridkot and Bhiwani respectively. While Kaur, Sukhbir and Ajay are seeking re-election, Bansi Lal's son Surender singh who finished third from Bhiwani in the 1999 hustings is vying to make entry to the parliament from the same constituency contesting against his arch rival Ajay Singh Chautala. Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD-Badal) General Secretary and former Rajya Sabha member Sukhbir Singh Badal had contested the 1999 polls unsuccessfully losing by a margin of just 5,046 votes against congress candidate and firebrand leader Jagmeet Singh Brar.
Assam remains traditional Congress bastion
Wednesday, March 31, 2004
Guwahati, Mar 31 Traditionally a Congress bastion since the first Lok Sabha elections in 1952, Assam has elected the party's candidates even when the state was ruled by the regional party, Asom Gana Parishad, for two terms. Till the AGP and BJP arrived on the poll scene in 1985, the Congress virtually had no major opposition save a handful of communist and socialist parties, besides a few independents. A statistical analysis of the election results since the first democratic exercise in 1952 when the state had 11 seats in the Lok Sabha shows all of them were won by the Congress securing 53.2 per cent votes. This was followed by victory in nine constituencies twice in 1957 and 1962 when the total number of constituencies going to the poll went up to 12, grossing 51.68 per cent and 45.18 per cent votes, respectively. Polling 45.84 per cent of the ballots in 1967, the Congress won 10 of the 14 seats. The records of the 1971 polls are, however, not available with the election department here. The next election in 1977 witnessed the triumph of 10 Congress candidates polling 48.75 per cent votes. In 1980 after the split of Congress, the Indira Gandhi faction won two of the seats that the elections were held for registering 51 per cent of the votes. In the next 1983 controversial polls, the party won the five seats it contested securing 72.57 per cent votes.
BJP releases 'Vision Document' ; seeks to pacify hardliners
Wednesday, March 31, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 30 In an apparent bid to placate the Sangh Parivar cadre ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, the BJP chose Lord Ram's birthday today to assert, albeit in a toned down manner, its commitment to Hindutva, Ram temple and other pet issues like population control and ban on conversions. Releasing BJP's 'Vision Document 2004', party President M Venkaiah Naidu also said that BJP will remain committed to NDA's common minimum programme and the coalition's manifesto will be the guiding document for governance. "BJP is a party with a difference with basic commitments and priorities for the coming five years and beyond," he said. Interestingly, the party avoids any direct reference to its core issue of abrogating Article 370, which grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir, and alludes to it merely as "certain transient and temporary provisions." The 48-page document emphasises on the need for a legislation to ensure that important offices of the Indian state can be occupied only by those "who are India's natural citizens by their Indian origin". Far removed from the fury of its Palampur resolution through which the party took up the Ram temple agitation, the document emphasises on a resolution of the issue through dialogue and starting a new chapter in Hindu-Muslim ties. At a high-level meeting with Sangh leaders, Vajpayee and the BJP top brass had agreed to incorporate core issues in its Vision Document. Besides being its strong vote base, the party relies heavily on the Sangh cadre for campaigning.
Goa getting ready for international film festival
Tuesday, March 30, 2004
PANAJI: Goa Cabinet on Monday approved the decision to issue an ordinance for setting up a single window for speedy clearance of projects from different statutory authorities for the international film festival of India. Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar said the ordinance would not amount to violation of Election Commission model code of conduct as it was within the constitutional rights of the government to do so. The raison d'atre for issuing the ordinance was paucity of time for the various projects to be cleared and developed in view of the festival to be held by the end of the year, Parrikar said. But the state congress vice president, Jitendra Deshprabhu, MLA, who forwarded to the EC complaints of "violation of code of conduct for a certain tender notice issued by the Goa infrastructure development corporation whose chairman is the CM," said even the "ordinance would be violative of the code of conduct." The state government has started demolishing the stadium in Panaji where a temporary glass and steel fabricated auditorium would be constructed at a cost of around Rs 20 crore. Later, the space would be used for constructing a new stadium of international standard.
Advani files nomination from Gandhinagar
Monday, March 29, 2004
Deputy Prime Minister LK Advani on Monday filed his nomination papers from the Gandhinagar parliamentary constituency. Advani filed his nomination, at the `Vijay Muhurat' of 12:39 pm, at the collector's office in Gandhinagar. He is seeking election from the Gandhinagar seat for the fourth time, the third one in succession. The Deputy Prime Minister was flanked by BJP national president M Venkaiah Naidu, Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, former state Chief Minister Keshubhai Patel and in-charge of BJP's election campaign committee Suresh Mehta.
NDTV poll survey upsets Congress
Monday, March 29, 2004
The Congress today attacked NDTV's opinion poll, which predicts an NDA victory in the forthcoming general election. Congress says that the market research organisation AC Nielsen, which has done the field-work for NDTV and Indian Express, had predicted a victory for the NCP-Congress alliance in Maharashtra. NDTV's opinion poll, however, says the NDA has an advantage in Maharashtra. The Congress says it wants the Election Commission to intervene and force pollsters to publish all their data along with their polls. "If the electronic media wants to inform people about exit polls, then a disclosure statement should accompany it, the details of who conducted the field work and analysis. The methodology used for projections should also be made known to the public. And these details should be put on the web site," Congress spokesperson Kapil Sibal said. NDTV replies NDTV's editor-in-chief Dr Prannoy Roy has responded by saying that there's nothing secret about the methodology used by NDTV. It's a methodology backed by years of experience. Dr Roy says: "My colleagues and I have been involved in electoral forecasting for over two decades now. There has been no change in the methodology and sample design that we have used for the last 25 years. "It is completely transparent and clear and has been published in several articles and books for all to read. "For this poll we commissioned AC Nielsen to conduct the fieldwork and collect the data in over 200 constituencies, chosen in accordance with our design-sample, so as to ensure a fair representation of the social, political and regional diversity of the country. "This time too, the same methodology was used to interpret the results of the fieldwork." The opinion poll had shown the BJP-led NDA was expected to get around 287 to 307 seats against Congress-led alliance's around 143 to 163 seats.
I learnt being an Indian from my mother, says Rahul
Monday, March 29, 2004
ON BOARD AIR SAHARA 6137: Rahul Gandhi, the fifth generation scion of the Nehru-Gandhi family to enter public life, says he learnt being an Indian from his mother Sonia Gandhi and that it is his "fundamental right to help India" by joining politics. In an interview with on board the Air Sahara flight from New Delhi to Lucknow on his way to Amethi, from where he is contesting the parliamentary election as the Congress party candidate, Rahul said: "I am an Indian because of my mother. I learnt to be an Indian from my mother. My mother is completely Indian. She is an outcast in Italy." Rahul was seated next to Satish Sharma, his father Rajiv Gandhi's close friend and aide when he was prime minister, and agreed to the on-flight interview after some initial hesitation. He was seen off at the Delhi airport by his sister Priyanka Gandhi as he headed for his political debut in the constituency that has been nursed by his mother, father and uncle, Sanjay Gandhi. Saying that he shouldn't be condemned for joining politics just because he belonged to a famous family, the 33-year-old asked: "If my father, grandmother and great-grandfather were in politics, why should I not be allowed to do something for my country?" "You don't condemn a person whose father is a criminal and wants to come to politics. Why are you condemning me? It is my fundamental right to want to help India." Few can boast of the kind of lineage that Rahul Gandhi has. His father, grandmother and great grandfather were prime ministers and his great-great grandfather, Motilal Nehru, a leading attorney in his time, became the president of the Congress party in the 1920s and one of the stalwarts of the independence movement who worked with Mahatma Gandhi. The election in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, India's most politically consequential state, is scheduled for next month. Rahul, often overshadowed by his extrovert younger sister Priyanka, was a surprise announcement as a Congress candidate. Even when he visited Amethi last month with Priyanka, nobody considered the Harvard and Cambridge educated economics and management graduate to be a candidate for this election. Rahul said as a child he saw very little of his father - only for an hour a day when he was prime minister (1984-89) and perhaps for three hours a day when he was an airline pilot before that. "I have learnt something of India from my grandmother (former prime minister Indira Gandhi). But I am an Indian because of my mother. My mother is completely Indian. She is an outcast in Italy," he said in reference to questions on the eligibility of Sonia Gandhi to become prime minister because of her Italian birth, an issue that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) wants to make into an election plank. Asserting that "it is my fundamental right to help India", Rahul said a person should be judged not by his caste, religion or roots but by his qualifications and abilities. "Either you have something in you or you don't. If I don't have it, I am gone," Rahul said emphatically. He said he had certain ideas for the country that he would "keep them to myself for now". His focus presently was just to win the election in Amethi. But Rahul, who his friends insist is a very intelligent and sensitive person even while being reticent, said it "frightened" him when he heard leaders of the country grandly announce "India has arrived". "In other more developed countries, leaders are constantly exhorting the people to do more by saying the country has miles to go. But in this country, where millions live under the poverty line, it is frightening to hear leaders say we have arrived." He dismissed the ruling alliance's India Shining campaign "as just that - a campaign". He described religion and caste as fundamental problems holding back India's progress. He said the goal should be to make the country number one in the world but not on divisive issues like caste and religion. Reiterating that people should be judged on their abilities and action and not by their birth, caste or religion, he said the common people of the country judged leaders "not by what you are but what you do and how you do it. "I dream of an India where the issue is not about what caste or religion you belong to but what you are doing for the country." He went on: "Change can come from young people who aspire to take the country somewhere..." Rahul said he had no plans to do any public speaking during his first visit to Amethi as a candidate but may do so later in the week when he goes to file his nominations. He said his visit this time would be limited to interacting with party workers in Amethi, which remains a solid Congress bastion even while the party gasps for survival elsewhere in Uttar Pradesh, India's most populous state. Throughout the impromptu on-board interview, Rahul kept smiling though he got serious when answering questions related to his mother or on caste or religion issues in India. At one time he patted this correspondent on her hand and said: "You look more nervous than I do." On comparisons being drawn between Prime Ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Jawaharlal Nehru, Rahul was categorical: "Nobody can be compared to Nehru, just as no one can be compared to Mahatma Gandhi. He (Nehru) laid the foundation for the country in education, industry, so many things..."
Rahul to file nomination early April
Monday, March 29, 2004
NEW DELHI: Congress chief Sonia Gandhi's son and party candidate from Amethi, Rahul Gandhi will file his nomination papers in the first week of April. "Rahul Gandhi will file his nomination papers in Amethi either April 5 or April 6", party spokesman Kapil Sibal said on Sunday. Asked about the exact date of filing the nomination and who will accompany Gandhi, Sibal said "we will let you know later the date and the details about who will accompany him." Before that, Rahul Gandhi would visit the constituency in Uttar Pradesh for two days beginning Monday. He would interact with local Congress leaders and others, Sibal said.
Sehwag's triple ton guides India to 588 for four
Monday, March 29, 2004
PTI India's Sachin Tendulkar hits a shot during the second day of the first Test between India and Pakistan in Multan on Monday. Reuters MULTAN: Virender Sehwag slammed the first-ever triple century in Indian test history as India consolidated their position to reach a commanding 588 for four in their first innings at tea on the second day of the first cricket test against Pakistan here on Monday. Sehwag, who eclipsed VVS Laxman's record of 281 as the highest individual test score by an Indian just before the lunch break, notched up his triple century in style by lifting off spinner Saqlain Mushtaq for ` huge six to receive a standing ovation from the paltry crowd at the Multan cricket stadium. Sachin Tendulkar, who cracked his 33rd test century before the lunch interval, continued to defy the Pakistanis to remain unbeaten on a masterly 165 with Yuvraj Singh giving him company on 11 at the tea break. The Indians lost the wickets of Sehwag (309) and VVS Laxman (29) during the session which saw the visitors adding 121 runs. Resuming at the lunch score of 467 for two, Sehwag and Tendulkar continued to pile the misery on the hapless Pakistani bowlers on a placid track to take the score beyond the 500-mark. Scoreboard at tea break on the second day of the first cricket: India first innings: A Chopra (C Farhat, B Mushtaq)- 42, V Sehwag (C Umar, B Sami)- 309, R Dravid (C Hameed, B Sami)- 6, S Tendulkar (batting)- 161, V V S Laxman (run out)- 29, Y Singh (batting) 11 extras (B-4, lb-14, W,1, N-7) 26 total (for 4 wkts, 148 overs) - 588 Fall of Wickets: 1/160, 2/173, 3/509, 4/565 Bowling: Akhtar 29-4-102-0, Sami 30-3-92-2, S`Abbir Ahmed 31-6-122-0, Saqlain Mushtaq 31-4-173-1, Abdul Razzak 15-3-61-0, Imran Farhat 4-0-20-0. DAY ONE: On the opening day of the Multan Test, it required the man he was once seen to be cloning to remind him to dig within. On Sehwag's way to the fifth fastest double century ever, Sachin Tendulkar kept reminding him of the enormity of his opportunity. ``Aapko khade rehna hai,''exhorted the Little Master. ``Play your own shots. Don't manufacture shots.'' The day closed with India comfortably placed at 356 for the loss of Akash Chopra and Rahul Dravid's wickets, and Sehwag still hungry for more, to add to his 228, and Tendulkar crafting a tempered 60. Sunday was a milestone for Sehwag not because he swept ahead of Sanjay Manjrekar's 218 to own the highest score against Pakistan or because he is now within cutting distance of Tendulkar's record for the highest score (241) in an away match. It was a rite of passage for the opener to claim a Test slot by right. For long, his explosions at the top of the order have been hailed with shrugs of let him bat while his unorthodox style clicks, never mind that he does not have the technique or temperament for a Test batsman. On Sunday, he carefully constructed his retort. Every shot was vintage Sehwag, but in his first Test outing in Pakistan, the risky upper cut was soon expunged from his list of options. He waited for loose balls, he did not hurry himself into perilous acceleration. It did help that the pitch unrolled by the curator at the Multan Cricket Stadium, to a less than capacity crowd holding Indian and Pakistani flags, held no dangers for batsmen. It assisted the fast bowlers with little bounce or swing, which often undoes Sehwag's high left elbow action and his speedy swishes of the bat. After days of speculation, the grass visible two days ago was shaved off, to everyone's bewilderment. The contours of the day were visible from Shoaib Akhtar's first delivery. He began his fast and furious run-up _ not quite kicking off the sightscreen but way beyond the sponsor's logo nonetheless _ hair flapping in a surprisingly cool breeze and his knees folding completely in the delivery stride. It was easily played off for a couple by Chopra. It never got any easier for the bowlers after that. They toiled and they worked up pace, with Shoaib hitting 95 miles per hour, but did not trouble the batters. The pitch did not do any favours for Saqlain Mushtaq too. He last played a Test at this very ground against Bangladesh in September 2003, and his return to the Pakistan squad did not live up to expectations. It's been rumoured that he has worked on teesra, he is too skilled a spinner to be put to pasture. Let not the sorry inclusion of five no-balls and an economy rate of 5.35 in his figures be the beginning of an epitaph. Saqlain has over the years needed careful nurturing of his confidence. After Multan Day One the challenge lies with the Pakistan dressing room as much as it does with him. Sehwag's self-belief, on the other hand, was evident in his waiting game. At the Boxing Day Test match at Melbourne, his surrender while on 195 was seen to be typical of him. He will play his shots, they said, with no care whether he gets out or not. On Sunday, he played out nine dot-balls before seizing on a loose ball to take him from 199 to 201. For this uncharacteristically cautious Sehwag, the elements smiled their approval. A cloud had enveloped the field in a welcome shade, but withdrew to give the sun full view of his double century celebrations. (He did once offer a chance to Saqlain when he was on 68, but was grassed by Sami at mid-wicket.) ``It was the best innings of my Test career,'' he said later. ``At 199, I was waiting for a loose ball.'' The memory of the Melbourne, he noted, kept him watchful. But was he nervous? ``If I was nervous,'' he replied in what has to be one of the most spirited post-match briefings by an Indian player, ``I would have got out.'' His innings was layered with a variety of strokes both sides of the wicket. As the day progressed, he routinely kept playing straighter ahead in the V and embellishing his wagon wheel with some flicks played extremely fine. His favourite, he said, was an on-drive played to extra cover. And in the luminous glow of a shot at more milestones, poor Manjrekar was given little consolation for having a record surpassed. ``Records are made to broken,'' Sehwag told the ex-India bat. And this one, he said with a wink, would be dedicated to his parents and wife-to-be.
Our progress report best: Vajpayee
Monday, March 29, 2004
Bahraich (UP), Mar 28 Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee today said his government had been able to provide jobs to one crore youths and the country had reached new heights during five years of the NDA rule. "We had promised that we will provide jobs to one crore youths and we have done it. Today, one crore youths have been provided employment opportunities and they are helping in development of the nation. This includes even self-employed," Vajpayee told an election rally here. "Congress had a misconception that without them, the country cannot run. We have done it and taken the country to new heights," he said. Asserting the country was developing at a fast pace, the Prime Minister said "we want to encourage small-scale industries and agriculture in the country." He said if 100 crore people of the country get together, the nation could achieve new heights. "Opposition parties want to remove us. But the voters are ready to ask them why? After all our progress report for last six years has been the best," Vajpayee said. He said his government had laid stress on solving all issues through negotiations. Referring to suicide cases by farmers in some states, he said "some Congress-run states where among those where such incidents have taken place." About his dream National Highway project, he said better roads lead to better development of the country as this gives a boost to trade.
Eight of ten MPs renominated in Haryana
Monday, March 29, 2004
Chandigarh, Mar 28 Eight of the ten MPs of the dissolved 13th Lok Sabha in Haryana have been re-nominated by BJP and ruling INLD for the May 10 election. BJP has re-nominated all its five MPs of the dissolved house while Indian National Lok Dal led by Chief Minister Om Prakash Chautala has given tickets to three of its sitting MPs, discarded one and yet to announce a decision on one seat. The list of contestants released by the BJP in New Delhi included all the five who won the 1999 elections in alliance with the INLD. The two parties are contesting on their own this time due to recent break-up of the alliance. Union Minister of State for Home I D Swami (Karnal), Rattan Lal Kataria (Ambala Reserve), Kishen Singh Sangwan (Sonepat), Ram Chander Bainda (Faridabad) and Sudha Yadav have been fielded again by the BJP. INLD has denied ticket to Capt Inder Singh who won from Rohtak in 1999. The party has nominated Bhim Singh Suhag, who has announced his decision to quit as Vice-Chancellor of Maharishi Dayanand University (MDU) at Rohtak following allotment of INLD nomination to him. The three renominated by the INLD are Chief Minister's son Ajay Chautala (Bhiwani), Surender Singh Barwala (Hissar) and Sushil Kumar Indora (Sirsa). The party is yet to decide the fate of its lone woman MP Kailasho Devi (Kurukshetra). BJP has so far announced candidates for five seats, INLD eight and Haryana Vikas Party (HVP) led by former Chief Minister Bansi Lal five while the main opposition Congress is yet to announce any candidate.
2 including SPO killed in attack by militants
Monday, March 29, 2004
Jammu, Mar 28 Two persons, including a Special Police officer, have been killed in different incidents in Udhampur and Doda districts of Jammu and Kashmir, official sources said. When militants attacked the house of surrendered militant Shabir Ahmed in Hisoot village of Udhampur district today, security guards deployed at the house fired back and in the ensuing gunbattle SPO Sukhdev was killed, the sources said. No casuality or injury was however reported from anyone among the family of Shabir, they said adding, the militants managed to escape from the spot. A search and cordon operation has been launched in the area to track down the militants, they said. In another incident, militants barged into the house of Bashir Ahmed in village Hasgmat in village Ramban of Doda district and shot him dead last night, sources said. The reason behind the killing was not known, they said adding that an operation has been launched by army to search for the militants responsible for the act.
Gangrape case: Doctor sent to judicial custody
Monday, March 29, 2004
Ahmedabad, Mar 28 The Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of the Civil Hospital here, who was arrested yesterday by Gujarat police in connection with the alleged gangrape-cum-suicide case of a city girl was today sent to judicial custody. Dr Y M Jadhav, CMO of the civil hospital arrested for alleged "destruction of evidence" and acts of "ommission and commission" committed while examining the gangrape victim on the night of the incident, was sent to judicial custody by Metropolitan Magistrate S B Patel. Jadhav is the first doctor to be arrested in this sensational case just a day after a 600-page chargesheet was framed by police against 12 persons, including prime accused, Delhi based businessman Sajal Jain and two absconders. The doctor was nabbed after police allegedly found acts of "ommission and commission" leading to "destruction of evidence" under section 201 of IPC. Forensics department officials who handled the case said that "vaginal swab of the victim was not taken by the doctor and it was one among the 51 pieces of evidence sent for scientific examination that was missing". Collecting the swab is a crucial piece of evidence and was mandatory under the law in such cases and the doctor "deliberately" did not collect it and conduct detailed medical check-up of the victim, an investigating officer said. Investigating officer S P Oza told the court that "they had enough prima facie evidence against the doctor but would not seek his police remand for interrogation at this stage".
BSNL expresses inability to offer roaming
Monday, March 29, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 28 At a time when most of the private mobile operators are offering roaming services for Pakistan to their subscribers, state-owned BSNL has expressed its inability to do so in view of some technical stipulations like disclosing contents of SMS. It may not be possible to meet some of the technical and commercial terms and conditions, sources said adding that BSNL has sought clarifications from the Department of Telecom in this regard. Sources said that the corporation had already finalised the rate for roaming, and was awaiting clarifications now. Earlier this month, Government permitted roaming facility on mobile phones for Pakistan for a period of four months. Following the announcement, operators like Airtel and Hutch announced roaming facility for their subscribers. Airtel said it would provide roaming facility both to its pre-paid and post-paid customers. While the company's post-paid customers would be able to make and receive voice calls as well as send and receive SMS, the pre-paid customers can receive voice calls and SMS. For Indian roamers local calls to any number in Pakistan would be charged Rs 25 per minute, while calls to any number back in India would attract an offpeak rate (applicable from 2130 hrs-0700 hrs) of Rs 35 per minute and a peak rate of Rs 45 per minute. Outgoing SMS would be charged at the rate of Rs 12 per message sent.
MTNL introduces ADSL technology for net
Monday, March 29, 2004
Mumbai, Mar 28 State-owned telephony major Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd (MTNL) has introduced in nine of its circles in Mumbai the Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) technology, which enables faster access of internet over existing telephone lines. "The service branded MTNL-DSL offers downloadable speeds of around 6 MBPS and is launched under two plans, single and multi-user," MTNL general manager (marketing) G V R S Kumar told here today. The schemes are being launched at Cuffe Parade, Malabar Hills, Malad, Powai and Prabhadevi among other locations in the city, he said. ADSL technology helps to download files from web at speeds of upto 6 MBPS and works on existing telephone infrastructure. The technology eliminates the need of optical fibre, T-1 or E-1 lines or similar high-end telephony lines, he said. Previously, MTNL's internet connections were provided over dial-up connections, which resulted in the user paying telephone charges in addition to the internet connectivity charges. With the new technology, a user can connect to the Net through the existing dial-up connection, however, additional phone bills are not levied. MTNL also would levy a Customer Premise Equipment (CPE) charges of Rs 500 and one time registration charges of Rs 1,000, payable with the first bill.
Two-wheeler sales rise 9.66 pc
Monday, March 29, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 28 Increasing motorcycle sales and a revival of the scooter market drove the two-wheeler sales up by 9.66 per cent during the first eleven months this fiscal. A total of 48.8 lakh units were sold during April- February 2003-04 over 44.57 units during the same period last year, data compiled by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) showed. Sales of motorcycles in the country, the second-biggest two-wheeler market of the world after China, jumped 13 per cent to 38 lakh units. Scooter sales, which have been witnessing a steady growth since the last couple of months, grew by 3.70 per cent to 8.05 lakh units while moped sales skidded by 10.3 per cent to 2.81 lakh units. After blockbuster sales during the most part of 2001-02, two-wheeler market decelerated since the fourth quarter of last fiscal, mainly because of low demand from rural areas after last year's drought and the imbroglio over the implementation of Value-Added Tax (VAT) regime. But demand has started picking up from the second quarter of this fiscal due to bountiful rains which raised prospects of good harvest and improved sentiments. In the motorcycle and step-thrugh category, market leader Hero Honda posted a 22 per cent rise to 18.4 lakh units while its nearest rival Bajaj Auto registered a 10.2 per cent rise to 8.84 lakh units.
First Test: India finishes the day at 356 for 2
Monday, March 29, 2004
Multan, Mar 28 Electing to bat, India were 356 for two against Pakistan at stumps on the opening day of the first cricket test here today. Sehwag was 228 not out from 271 deliveries, while included 30 boundaries and five sixes. Saqlain Mushtaq made the first breakthrough when he had Aakash Chopra caught at forward short leg. The opener's 42 took 121 deliveries. Rahul Dravid (6) was caught by Yasir Hameed while trying to pull Mohammad Sami. Sachin Tendulkar was unbeaten on 61 with nine fours. Brief Scores: India 1st innings: 356 for two in 90 overs (V Sehwag batting 228, S Tendulkar batting 61, A Chopra 42; Sami 1-54, Saqlain 1-123).
Karan Johar dumps Ajay for SRK
Saturday, March 27, 2004
MUMBAI: Ignore all the careless whispers about Karan Johar signing Ajay Devgan for his next film. Ajay had been approached by the Johars for a song-less thriller to be directed by Karan's assistant Soham Shah. But Karan himself is planning an epic period film with his favourite Shah Rukh Khan. Shah Rukh reserved his dates for the project from November. Before that he'll complete Yash Chopra's underproduction film and Ashutosh Gowariker's Swades . Interestingly Karan's next project seems to be the third of Shah Rukh's period movie trilogy after Devdas and Yash Chopra's next film. Remember his bad-man trilogy Baazigar , Darr and Anjaam in the 1990s?
Sensex rebounds by 1.57 %
Saturday, March 27, 2004
Mumbai, Mar 27 Stocks: After massive two weekly setbacks, the sensex made a remarkable turnaround ending up by 1.57 per cent in the week under review on emergence buying from operators and retailers even as foreign institutional investors made fresh investments on bourses. The BSE Benchmark 30-share Index that had fallen by 7.43 per cent or 437 points in the preceding two weeks, recovered early losses and even ended the week up at 5528.94 as against last weekend's close of 5443.44, a net gain of 85.50 points. Banking stocks were in the limelight having scored sharp rises on hectic buying support. As a result, the Bankex shot up by 119.70 points or 4.31 per cent to 2899.07 at the weekend from previous weekend's close of 2779.37. The sentiment which was well supported by a strong price rally on Wall Street on Thursday, was buoyed by buying by operators and retailers as well as consistent net purchases by FIIs. FIIs made fresh net investments of Rs 942 crore in the first four sessions of the week. The prime factor for the optimistic turn was that of fresh buying support from operators and retailers which not only made fresh commitments in the cash segment but also covered short positions in the Futures and Options segments as March contract expired on Thursday. Investors also seemed to have taken advantage of lower price levels and built up positions at Friday's concluding session of the currency financial year. The Nasdaq Composite Index recorded a rise of 57.69 points or 2.07 per cent, which is the largest daily percentage gain of the year.
Ganguly uncertain for first Test against Pakistan
Saturday, March 27, 2004
Multan, Mar 26 Uncertainty prevailed today over the availability of Sourav Ganguly for the first Test against Pakistan beginning here on Sunday although a medical scan showed there was no serious injury save for some muscular pain. Ganguly, who had stayed back in Lahore yesterday to undergo medical tests for his suspect lower back injury sustained during the last one-dayer on Wednesday, joined his teammates here but did not attend the practice session. Team Manager Ratnakar Shetty said an MRI scan had revealed no injury but a "clearer picture" would emerge only tomorrow. "The good news is that the scan has come clean. There is no injury to the skipper. It is only a muscular pain and physio Andrew Leipus will have two more sessions with him," Shetty told. Asked about the captain's availability for the first Test, he said, "it is too early to say anything at the moment. We will have to wait and see his progress," he said. In case Ganguly is ruled out, Rahul Dravid will captain the side and left-handed batsman Yuvraj Singh is likely to take the skipper's place in the team.
Govt approves 34 FDI proposals
Saturday, March 27, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 26 Government today approved 34 Foreign Direct Investment proposals worth Rs 30.98 crore. The proposals were approved by Finance Minister Jaswant Singh after being cleared by Foreign Investment Promotion Board at its meeting on March 19, as per an official statement. The major investment proposals pertain to chemicals and petro chemicals, manufacture and distributin of construction equipment, textiles and software development.
Pak welcomes Vajpayee's comments on Kashmir
Saturday, March 27, 2004
Islamabad, Mar 26 Pakistan today warmly appreciated Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's statement that the Kashmir issue should be resolved only through talks, saying Vajpayee's remarks during a rally in Amritsar were based on "realism" and "statesmanship", Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Masood Khan said. The Prime Minister told the rally, which was organised to mark the conclusion of first phase of Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani's "Bharat Uday Yatra", that "... There is no other option but to solve all problems through talks. If you (Pakistan) make claims on Kashmir, even then we have no other way but to hold talks." Khan said the war is not an option to resolve the vexed issue and Pakistan always advocated its resolution through substantive and sustained negotiations. The January meeting between Vajpayee and Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf here paved the way for the two countries to work out a roadmap to hold a composite dialogue in order to find a solution that was acceptable to India, Pakistan and Kashmiris, he was quoted as saying by the state-run PTV.
Five killed in accident near Chiloda in Gandhinagar
Saturday, March 27, 2004
Ahmedabad, Mar 27 Five persons, including a woman, were killed when their jeep collided head-on with a speeding truck near Chiloda in Gandhinagar district early today, police said. While three persons who were natives of Rajasthan were killed on the spot, a woman and her husband succumbed to their injuries at the Gandhinagar Civil Hospital, police said. The deceased have been identified as Amra Kana Asari,40, Rajesh Asari, 27, Laxmanbhai, 35, Premilaben Bansibhai Baranda, 25, and her husband, Bansibhai Baranda.
There will be permanent peace between India and Pakistan: PM
Saturday, March 27, 2004
Amritsar, Mar 26 Observing that Indo-Pak ties had improved, Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee today hoped that this would lead to a permanent peace between the two countries. "I hope we don't miss this opportunity and this will be permanent peace. This friendship is going to last as it is in the interest of both the countries," Vajpayee told a rally organised here to mark the conclusion of first phase of Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani's "Bharat Uday Yatra". "This time we are believing in their humanitarianism and our strength. There is no other option but to solve all problems through talks. If you (Pakistan) make claims on Kashmir, even then we have no other way but to hold talks. In Srinagar, I said I am extending my hand for the third and last time. I did this earlier in Lahore and then in Agra. "We must solve our differences through talks. If not once then twice and thrice." Referring to the 1971 war, he said, "I told them (Pakistan) what did you get from the war. You did not get land, but in fact lost Bangladesh." On the ongoing Indo-Pak cricket series, Vajpayee said, "Could anyone have imagined that that relations would be so good that we would play cricket... Where bullets were traded, people are now playing cricket." He said, "changes are taking place in the neighbourhood and the changes are not one-sided. You need two teams, two mindsets and two countries to play a game."
Jharkhand Speaker decides to quit to contest LS polls
Saturday, March 27, 2004
Ranchi, Mar 27 Jharkhand Speaker Inder Singh Namdhari today decided to quit his post to contest the Chatra Lok Sabha seat against BJP candidate and Minister of State for Social Justice, Nagmani. Namdhari said, at a press conference here, that he would put in his resignation papers before filing his nomination on March 31 on a JD(U) ticket. The JD(U) is part of the BJP-led NDA government in the state.
Union Ministers, film stars in electoral arena from Mumbai
Saturday, March 27, 2004
Mumbai, Mar 27 As the battlelines for the six Lok Sabha seats in the country's commercial capital are drawn, it appears that Congress-NCP alliance is banking on political greenhorns to take on the heavyweights of the Shiv Sena-BJP saffron combine. While the saffron parties have re-nominated their sitting MPs, the Congress-NCP, the ruling partners in Maharashtra, have roped in a film star and younger generation to take on the bigwigs of the Sena-BJP in the electoral arena. In the prestigious south Mumbai constituency, from where George Fernandes once humbled veteran Congress leader S K Patil, Congress has pitted 27-year-old Milind Deora, son of Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP Murli Deora against sitting MP and Union Minister Jaiwantiben Mehta of BJP. Mehta had romped home victorious from this constituency earlier in 1996 while Deora Sr represented it in 1991 and 1998. In the far off north Mumbai parliamentary constituency, Congress sprang a surprise by fielding film star Govinda against Union Minister Ram Naik of BJP, who has the distinction of representing this constituency for five previous occasions. Within hours of announcement of his candidature, Govinda boarded a suburban local train to reach out to his voters, but will the film star be able to upset Naik's apple-cart would be known in the coming days.
Santoshi to film Shivaji
Sunday, March 21, 2004
Smita Thackeray has approached Rajkumar Santoshi to direct Chhatrpati Shivaji. History seems to be repeating itself in the industry literally. If the film rolls, this will be Santoshi's third historical venture-after The Legend Of Bhagat Singh and Prithiviraj Samyukta. Santoshi is also committed to doing a film for AB Corp titled Ranveer. He is also committed to do a film for Keshu Ramsay that will have Bachchan in the lead yet again. Looks like historical films are the latest buzzword in the film industry with not less then five films being announced recently-The Rising, Kisna, Swades, Prithiviraj Samyukta and Chhatrapati Shivaji. The last film to be made on the great Maratha King was in 1952 starring Prithiviraj Kapoor.
Unofficial ban on 3 artistes: Innocent
Thursday, March 18, 2004
KOCHI: Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (Amma) president Innocent today confirmed the reports of an unofficial ban on Mohanlal, Sreenivasan and Mukesh, imposed by the Kerala Film Chamber of Commerce. Talking to this website's newspaper, he alleged that the Chamber was playing hide and seek by imposing unofficial ban on artistes on flimsy grounds. The Chamber authorities have turned down the registration requests of two movies featuring Mohanlal, Sreenivasan and Mukesh citing no specific reason, he alleged. Things have come into such a pass that the interference of a powerful mediator alone can bring about a lasting solution to the issue, he said.
Advani for strict implementation of 2-child norm
Thursday, March 18, 2004
Jagityal (Andhra Pradesh), Mar 18 Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani today sought political consensus on strict implementation of two child norm in the country and a one-time amendment to pave way for a fixed five year term and simultaneous elections for Lok Sabha and state assemblies. "I strongly advocate a policy whereby all individuals who violate the two-child norm will be automatically debarred from holding public office and government job. I believe this will be strong disincentive for large families," he told a press conference in this naxal-infested town in Telengana region on the ninth day of his Bharat Udhay Yatra. Disagreeing with a questioner that his proposal on two child norm might go against minorities, Advani said "This should not be construed as anti-minority policy". The Deputy Prime Minister, however, said there should be a political consensus on the issue. "Efforts will be made to build this consensus after the elections are over. It had to be done in a manner that is acceptable to all".
Advani's eyes set on building base in southern region
Thursday, March 18, 2004
Hyderabad, March 18 As Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani's 'Bharat Uday Yatra' coasted across southern states, his eyes were firmly set on building a base in the region as he mounted a political offensive against the dominant political forces Congress and Left parties. Ever since the Yatra began from the southern most point of Kanyakumari on March 10, Advani trained his guns on Congress and the Left parties and sought to blackwash both these parties, especially Congress, accusing it of being primarily responsible for the "misgovernance of the country and the economy". Congress and Left parties are the main political forces in the southern states of Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The BJP is yet to win a single assembly or Lok Sabha seat in Kerala. In Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, it is playing second fiddle to ruling AIADMK and TDP respectively. Referring to the license-quota-raj of the earlier governments, Advani said "so far as BJP is concerned, we have been a severe critic of the license-quota-raj which stemmed from the Marxist philosophy that state control of all economic resources is in the best interests of society". Dwelling on issues like Swadeshi and FDI, Advani said Swadeshi, in economic matters, did not mean a reversal of liberalisation but "it simply meant that the country must depend essentially on its own resources. "That does not mean shutting our doors to foreign investment and this approach has been adopted by the BJP-led NDA Government and I think this is not against Swadeshi," he added.
Ten Sports directed to provide live telecast
Thursday, March 18, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 17 The Supreme Court today directed Ten Sports to provide live telecast feed of cricket matches between India anad Pakistan to Doordarashan and directed the national channel to deposit Rs 50 crores with the court for assessment of damages later on. The Court fixed final hearing of the matter on April 15 and restrained Doordshan from putting its live telecast feed footprints on Middle East.
TRAI to give recommendations on broadband
Thursday, March 18, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 17 Telecom Regulatory Authority of India said today it would issue within a fortnight the final recommendations to encourage broadband and internet growth in India. Speaking at a seminar, Convergence India 2004, TRAI Chairman Pradip Baijal said, "We had earlier circulated a consultation paper on broadband and internet. In next 15 days we shall come out with final recommendations." Concerned at the slow offtake of internet services in the country, TRAI in November started a consultation process on an integrated policy for accelerating growth of internet and broadband penetration, within a 'unified' regime. As the first step towards this, TRAI released a consultation paper raising issues such as possibility of allowing unrestricted internet telephony, promoting availibility of low-cost internet access devices, and reducing infrastructural costs. The paper on internet focuses on various policy initiatives, regulatory actions and steps required to galvanise the internet and broadband subscriber base in the country currently languishing at 0.4 per cent and 0.02 per cent, respectively. Baijal said today that about two million phones were being added per month in India and added that the figure could go to three million addtions per month in a couple of months if some existing bottlenecks were removed.
Delhi seamer Amit Bhandari to replace Nehra for Indo-Pak series
Thursday, March 18, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 17 Delhi seamer Amit Bhandari will replace left-arm paceman Ashish Nehra in the Indian cricket team for the rest of the series in Pakistan, the Indian Cricket Board said today. The decision to send Bhandari was taken after the Board got a request from the team management asking for a replacement for Nehra, who was ruled out of the remaining matches against Pakistan after he cut the webbing on his left-hand in the second one-day match at Rawalpindi yesterday. "The team management today requested for a replacement for Nehra and the selectors have decided to send Bhandari," BCCI secretary and selection committee convenor S K Nair told over phone from Thiruvananthapuram. "The selectors had already decided that Bhandari would accompany the team if Nehra was found unfit even before the Indian team embarked on the 40-day tour. He was the first choice replacement," Nair said. He said Bhandari would join the squad at the earliest once his visa formalities were over. "He should be there before the third one-dayer to be held at Peshawar on March 19," Nair said. Nehra has been plagued by niggling injuries in recent times and has been in and out of the team since sustaining an ankle injury during the World Cup last year. The gangling pace bowler, who made the trip to Pakistan after proving his fitness by playing in the Duleep Trophy final, was a doubtful starter even for yesterday's match because of a swollen left ankle but recovered to be included in the team at the last minute.
India should undertake trade reforms to offset job losses: Powell
Tuesday, March 16, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 16 Observing that outsourcing was inevitable in the 21st century, US Secretary of State Colin Powell today said India should undertake trade reforms that would offset job losses in his country due to business processing outside but maintained there was no quid pro quo. "Outsourcing is a reality in the 21st century global environment -- both outsourcing and insourcing. We believe reforms and openness benefit both countries. We didn't suggest opening up as a quid pro quo," Powell said at a joint press conference with External Affairs Minister Yashwant Sinha after their 90-minute discussion. He also met Finance Minsiter Jaswant Singh. He was asked whether there was an implied link between restraint on US' part in terms of maintaining a liberal regime and progress from India in opening up its economy. Sinha said the two sides have agreed to remain engaged on the issue of outsourcing. "We will not (not) allow this or any other issue to create any misunderstanding between us." Powell said the issue of outsourcing was discussed during his intensive parleys with Sinha. "While we have outsourced some job positions to India, there are opportunities for Americans as well to service Indian needs and we hope India understands the need for reforms so that we can have more opportunities here," he said. Powell said outsourcing invariably did result in loss of jobs and "we have to do a good job in the US of creating opportunities to provide more jobs so that those who have lost jobs have opportunities in the future."
Pakistan beat India by 12 runs
Tuesday, March 16, 2004
Rawalpindi, Mar 16 Pakistan today defeated India by 12 runs in the second one-day international cricket match here. Replying to Pakistan's total of 329/6 in their stipulated 50 overs, India were all out for 317 in 48.3 overs in the second one-day international cricket match here today. The five-match series is now tied 1-1. Brief Scores: India 317 all out in 48.3 overs. (Powar 15 not out; Nehra 0 out, Balaji 15 out, Zaheer out 0, Kaif out 7, Tendulkar 142 out, Dravid 35 out, Yuvraj 19 out, Ganguly 15 out, Laxman 4 out; Sehwag 26 out) Pak 329 for six in 50 overs
EC orders probe into violation of Model Code of Conduct by BJP
Tuesday, March 16, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 16 A day after Congress complained of the alleged violation of Model Code of Conduct by BJP on the Social Security Scheme, the Election Commission today said it has ordered a local inquiry by the poll authorities in Maharashtra. "The Chief Electoral Officer of Maharashtra has been asked to make a local inquiry. We are examining it and if there is any truth, appropriate steps would be taken", EC spokesman A N Jha told reporters when asked about the Commission's response to Congress lodging a complaint with it on the issue. Congress yesterday lodged a complaint with the EC alleging "blatant" violation of the Model Code of Conduct by the BJP accusing it of adopting "corrupt practice and misuse" of the Centre's Social Security Scheme for the unorganised sector and demanded action against the party. It also demanded dismissal of Verma. Asked about political parties sending SMS messages to the people on the Indian cricket team's victory, Jha admitted that it was a "grey" area in the hitech era. He, however, said that the political parties would have to keep records of expenditure and submit returns to the Commission after the completion of the poll process. To a question on AIADMK manifesto making a personal attack on Congress President Sonia Gandhi, he said the Commission was examining the matter and added that the Model Code of Conduct prohibits any personal attack.
Powell meets Vajpayee
Tuesday, March 16, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 16 U S Secretary of State Colin Powell today met Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and exchanged views on a host of bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual concern. During the 40-minute meeting at the Prime Minister's Race Course Road residence, Powell was accompanied by US Assistant Secretary of State for South Asia Christina Rocca and American Ambassador to India David Mulford. National Security Adviser Brajesh Mishra was also present during the meeting. Powell emplanes tomorrow morning for Islamabad where he will meet Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf, Prime Minister Zarafullah Khan Jamali and Foreign Minister Khurshid Mehmoood Kasuri. The US Secretary of State will travel to Afghanistan from there before returning home.
Nana Patekar refuses to join any party
Tuesday, March 16, 2004
Maintaining that his basic identity is that of an actor, film star Nana Patekar today refused to join any political party unlike some of his fellow actors. "I don't need to join politics as I am an actor and people know me as an actor only," Patekar, who was here to promote his latest film Ab Tak Chhappan, told reporters. However, commenting on film stars joining political parties on the eve of the elections, the actor said, "I don't want to comment on it but at the same time I don't want to lose my right to question people by joining politics." He said he always likes to raise questions relating to the common man. To a question on proper training for those seeking a career in film industry, Patekar, who considers Naseeruddin Shah and Raghuvir Yadav among others as great actors, said a person can become an actor only when he himself has experienced such a situation in real life. Criticising the common people for not having courage to take on those openly indulging in criminal activities, Patekar said the recent incident of rape in a Mumbai train in the presence of over five persons is a sad incident. "Mumbai's population is over one crore and there are only 36,000 policemen, in such a scenario it is not proper on the part of the people to expect police protection for everything," Patekar said adding, people should learn to fight themselves.
Vivek Oberoi fractures hand
Tuesday, March 16, 2004
Bollywood actor Vivek Oberoi was injured when he fell down from horse back during the shooting of a film at Ranikhet in Almora district of Uttaranchal "Vivek suffered a minor fracture in his left hand on Thursday and is presently convalescing", informed Superintendent of Police (Almora), Mohan Singh Bangyal. Oberoi was riding a horse for the shooting of Subhash Ghai-directed Kisna, when the horse suddenly started running and the actor lost balance and fell. The injury sustained by Vivek is the second one he has suffered in the course of shooting. Last year, he broke his leg in Kolkata, while shooting for a Mani Ratnam film. Vivek's father, Suresh Oberoi and film actress Aishwarya Rai telephoned him to ask about his condition.
Amitabh, Hema Malini honoured by FICCI
Tuesday, March 16, 2004
The Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has bestowed its 'Living Legend Awards' on cine stars Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini, in acknowledgement of their continuing contribution to the Indian film industry. The awards were presented by Information and Broadcasting minister Ravi Shankar Prasad at a function held here late last night. Bachchan is undoubtedly the most recognised face of the Indian industry globally, and is among the first to pave the road for corporatisation of the industry, FICCI secretary general Amit Mitra said. Hema was awarded since she has managed to transcend the limitations of being bracketed as merely an actress, he added. Dilip Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, Dev Anand and Asha Bhosle were the earlier recipients of the award.
Wahab's nomination opposed
Tuesday, March 16, 2004
PTI KOZHIKODE : Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha's Kerala unit on Tuesday urged the Chief Election Commissioner to declare as invalid the nomination of Dubai-based industrialist and IUML candidate P V Abdul Wahab to the Rajya Sabha "as it has to be established first that he is resident in India ." "It has to be first established that Wahab is a resident Indian though his name is found in the voter's list", BJYM State President K Surendran told reporters here. Wahab as a business magnate was enjoying all the benefits of an NRI available under various Acts related to Foreign Exchange Management, Income Tax, Export-Import and Customs, he said and urged Chief Minister A K Antony to find out if "Wahab really gave up the NRI status before his name was included in the voter's list". Referring to IUML State Secretary and Industries Minister P K Kunhalikutty's reported remarks that Wahab was a resident Indian now and that he had been in the voter's list for long, Surendran said it was for the Government and the Election Commission to ascertain the facts before accepting his nomination to the Upper House. "At a time when several NRIs are still awaiting their inclusion in the voter's list since their return to the country, it is amazing that Wahab who is reportedly enjoying all benefits of an NRI is nominated as RS nominee", he said, adding he was not aware if the state BJP had ignored the issue.
Pakistan 329-6 in 50 overs against India
Tuesday, March 16, 2004
RAWALPINDI, Pakistan (Reuters) - Pakistan scored 329 for six wickets from their 50 overs in the second one-day international against India on Tuesday. Scoreboard in the second one-day international between Pakistan and India on Tuesday: Pakistan Yasir Hameed run out 86 Shahid Afridi b Yuvraj Singh 80 Yousuf Youhana b Yuvraj Singh 24 Inzamam-ul-Haq b Nehra 29 Younis Khan c Dravid b Nehra 28 Moin Khan lbw b Nehra 0 Shoaib Malik not out 30 Abdul Razzaq not out 31 Extras (lb-6 nb-1 w-14) 21 Total (for six wickets, 50 overs) 329 Fall of wickets: 1-138 2-191 3-225 4-249 5-249 6-284 Did not bat: Shoaib Akhtar, Mohammad Sami, Shabbir Ahmed Bowling: Balaji 6-0-47-0 (w-4), Zaheer 7-0-72-0 (w-2), Nehra 10-0-44-3, Sehwag 5-0-39-0 (nb-1), Yuvraj 10-1-41-2 (w-1), Powar 6-0-35-0 (w-5), Tendulkar 6-0-45-0 (w-2) India: S. Ganguly (captain), V. Sehwag, S. Tendulkar, R. Dravid, V. Laxman, Y. Singh, M. Kaif, R. Powar, Z. Khan, L. Balaji, A. Nehra.
Dravid defends his bowlers
Monday, March 15, 2004
Rawalpindi, Mar 15 Indian vice-captain Rahul Dravid was sympathetic of his "inexperienced" bowling attack, that nearly cost India the Karachi one-dayer, but admitted it was an area of concern on which they were working. "Bowling is an area of concern and we are working on it. Ours' is a rather inexperienced bowling attack and I am sure they will learn from their mistakes," Dravid told reporters ahead of the second match of the one-day series against Pakistan here tomorrow. "Not many of our bowlers have played too many one day internationals, so obviously they lack a bit of experience." he said giving some leeway to his bowlers, playing on tracks which have nothing for them. Asked whether the failure of the bowlers put additional pressure on the batsmen, he said, "Not exactly. On some days we get 350, but when we do not get that total, we hope the bowlers will do the job for us with the ball."
BJP finalises second list of candidates for Lok Sabha polls
Monday, March 15, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 15 The ruling BJP today finalised a second list of 46 more candidates in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Jharkhand for the April-May General Elections. The party also reached an understanding with Mamata Banerjee's Nationalist Trinamool Congress on 40 out of the 42 seats in West Bengal, senior BJP sources said after a two-hour long meeting at the Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's residence here. BJP, which had yesterday renominated five sitting MPs including Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani from Gujarat, finalised 18 more candidates from the state at the meeting which was also attended by Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi. Decision on the remaining three seats is likely soon. In Madhya Pradesh, the party finalised names of 20 more candidates, taking the total number of seats decided in the state to 23. Among the six seats where the party is yet to finalise its candidates include Guna, Bhopal and Rajgarh. The party finalised eight more candidates in Jharkhand, leaving only three out of the total 14 seats in the state to be decided. In West Bengal, BJP will contest 12 seats and the NTC the remaining 28, while decision on Bankura and Purulia has been kept pending. BJP has staked a claim on the two seats as it was runners-up on Purulia and its supported independent candidate came behind CPI(M)'s Acharia Basudeb in Bankura. Sources said the party will finalise candidates from the North-Eastern states, West Bengal and seat sharing with alies in Bihar in the evening.
Pak look to import Indian non-basmati rice of USD 200 mn
Monday, March 15, 2004
Mumbai, Mar 15 Pakistani rice traders have evinced interest to import five million tonnes of non-basmati rice valued at US dollar 200 million from India even as Rice Exporters' Association of Pakistan (REAP) sought a joint marketing action to get better price for Basmati variety. "Ater June 2004, we may need to source the non-basmati rice to meet the growing demand", Rahim Janoo, lead of REAP delegation told reporters at an interactive meet organised by Indian Merchants Chamber here today. Pakistani traders may visit India again to scout for imports and the demand is expected to be for about five lakh tonnes valued at USD 200 million, Janoo said. Both countries have an equal share in global Basmati exports but there is no competition for non-basmati rice as India was major supplier in this business segment, he added. Seeking a joint strategy to protect heritage of Basmati, REAP delegation head said the co-operation in marketing would help to get minimum 20 per cent hike in prices. The collaboration would also help to curb manipulation by international traders and improve the standard of life for Basmati growers in both countries, Janoo added. Pakistan exported seven lakh tonnes of Basmati rice for USD 350 miilion in 2002-03 while exports of non-Basmati rice stood at USD 200 million in the same period. Voicing concern over lengthy process for getting visas, the delegation sought mulitiple-visa facility to visit India. Pakistan would source rice mills and related equipment from India as they were on par with global quality with 30 per cent price advantage, Janoo added.
SC directs sending all 48 stamp scam cases to CBI
Monday, March 15, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 15 The Supreme Court today directed sending all 48 stamp scam cases for investigation to CBI and paved the way for custodial interrogation of key accused Abdul Karim Telgi by the investigating agency. The court said the States from which these 48 cases are being transferred to the CBI shall extend all cooperation to the agency for further probe. The court directed the CBI to file a status report within four months and directed that no High Court in the country will entertain any petition with regard to these 48 cases.
"Enduring solution" to Ayodhya issue soon: Advani
Monday, March 15, 2004
Hubli (Karnataka), Mar 15 Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani today asserted that an "enduring solution" by way of a negotiated settlement of the vexed Ayodhya issue would come about "within a short time after the formation of the new government." Addressing a press conference before the start of the sixth day of his 'Bharat Uday Yatra', he said "my interaction... government interaction with sections involved in the matter convinces me that within a short time after the formation of the new government, there would be an agreement amongst the two communities for resolution of the issue. "It will be a negotiated settlement which will come about and that has a great advantage over both - court verdict as well as resolution by Parliament," he said. These were the three courses that were always talked about, the Deputy Prime Minister said. "We have always felt that even if there is a court verdict, even if there is a resolution by Parliament, the problem will not be sorted out permanently. Agitations would continue whereas if there is an agreement after negotiations, it would be an enduring solution."
India to raise Pak proliferation with Powell
Monday, March 15, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 14 India is likely to flag its concerns over nuclear proliferation in its neighbourhood during talks its leaders will have here tomorrow with US Secretary of State Colin Powell. New Delhi's concerns have been reinforced following the admission by Pakistan's top nuclear scientist A Q Khan of illegally exporting sensitive technology to Iran, Libya and North Korea. In contacts with the Bush Administration, New Delhi has raised doubts whether the outward proliferation from Pakistan has really come to an end and also sought to know what assurances have been given that this will not happen again. The issue of outsourcing may also figure during the parleys. New Delhi has conveyed to Washington that any linkages of a quid pro quo in outsourcing would not be acceptable to it. The Indian contention is that this was a commercial activity, not seen as a bilateral and hence should not bedevil ties between India and the US. Steps to carry forward Indo-US strategic partnership, the recent initiatives to improve Indo-Pak relations, the ongoing fight against terrorism, and developments in Afghanistan and Iraq are expected to be covered during the talks. Powell will have a "full agenda", US officials said. The US secretary of State will be undertaking his fifth visit to India, the last being in July, 2002.
Pak's new missile can strike any Indian city
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
Pakistan will soon test for the first time a new nuclear-capable missile, the Shaheen II, which could reach all of India's cities. "You should expect this flight test anytime, shortly," Foreign Ministry spokesman Masood Khan told reporters on Monday. Pakistan has said the missile has a range of over 2,000 km (1,200 miles), although one Pakistani newspaper has reported its range could be as high as 3,000 km (1,900 miles). The new missile exceeds the 1,500-km (930-mile) reach of the Ghauri, previously Pakistan's longest-range missile which some say was developed with North Korean help. Pakistan says its weapons programme is a response to that of India, with which it has fought three wars since independence from Britain in 1947. The planned test of the Shaheen II comes amid intense scrutiny of Pakistan's nuclear programme after revelations its scientists sold nuclear secrets to Iran, North Korea and Libya. "Our strategic force goals are guided by the concept of minimum credible deterrence and that's why we have to test these missiles from time to time," Khan said. The test comes amid warming ties between Pakistan and India, and Khan said the two rivals had a policy of informing each other ahead of a missile test. Khan said the aim of the test would be to ensure its missile "reach" was sufficient to deter aggression and "prevent military coercion". India concluded a deal last week to buy an Israeli Phalcon airborne radar system, which Pakistan has complained will threaten its security and require steps to keep a balance between the two countries. The Phalcon system can detect aircraft hundreds of km miles) away, can intercept radio transmissions, and put large parts of Pakistan under Indian surveillance, including disputed Kashmir, which has been the trigger for two of the rivals' three wars.
Cabinet approves dates for LS polls
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
The Union Cabinet on Tuesday approved dates for elections to the Lok Sabha, which will be held in five phases beginning from April 20 and ending on May 10. The Government's recommendations have been sent to President APJ Abdul Kalam for issuance of a notification, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj told after the Cabinet meeting, presided over by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The Lok Sabha elections will now be held in five phases, instead of four, following accommodation of Tripura's request to have the polls in the state on April 22. Originally the dates proposed by the Commission were April 20, 26, May 5 and May 10. Later Tripura Government had written to the Commission seeking a change of poll date in the state from April 20 on account of tribal festival 'Baba Gariyapuja' on that day. The Commission then proposed that elections in Tripura be held on April 22. The dates now approved by Cabinet are April 20, 22, 26 and May 5 and 10.
Indo-Pak talks on starting Rajasthan-Sindh bus
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
Islamabad, Mar 9 In an effort to facilitate greater people-to-people contacts, India and Pakistan today began two-day talks on running a bus service between Rajasthan and Sindh province. An eight-member Indian delegation, led by Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways Alok Rawat, arrived here yesterday to hold talks with Pakistani side headed by Jalil Abbas Jilani, Director General, South Asia in the Foreign Office. The Indian delegation comprised officials from External Affairs Ministry, Ministry of Highways and Transport, and Rajastan Tourism. During the talks, the two sides would explore possibilities to run a bus service between Munabao in Rajasthan and Khokrapar in Pakistan's southern Sindh province, which has been closed since 1965. If opened, it would be the second of its kind after Delhi-Lahore bus service. The officials of the two countries would also meet on March 29-30 to discuss starting a bus service between Srinagar and Muzafarabad, capital of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir(POK). The meetings are a follow-up to the agreement between the two countries announced on October 22 last for starting these services as part of a series of confidence-building measures to normalise relations.
LIC, UTI MF in race for pension bus; AMFI for more MF entry
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 9 Life Insurance Corporation and UTI Mutual Fund are in the fray for entering the lucrative pension business, which is slated to grow to Rs 50,000 crore by 2010. Confirming this, Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority member U K Sinha told "there are many more in the fray." Life insurers like ICICI Prudential, Birla Sunlife, HDFC Standard Life and Aviva are eyeing the emerging sector, which has the potential to outpace the life insurance industry within a few decades. PSU banks like Bank of Baroda and Canara Bank are also toying with the idea of tapping long term savings. Association of Mutual Funds of India is in talks with the interim pension regulator to allow mutual funds to offer pension schemes, its chairman A P Kurian said. "Internationally, mutual funds and pension funds worked side-by-side," he said while pitching for entry of major mutual funds in the pension business. Major fund houses like Principal, DSP Merrill Lynch and Templeton are waiting for the final guidelines for entry into the pension sector. If PFRDA sets a minimum capital requirement of Rs 100 crore keeping at par with the insurance industry, sources in mutual fund industry said the foreign players have the deep pockets to fulfill that criteria. US-based Principal, for instance, has tied with Punjab National Bank, Berger Paints and Vijaya Bank for the pension and life insurance foray. Merrill Lynch and Templeton are also leading players in pension business in US and other developed markets.
Hockey: India beat Canada
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
Madrid, Mar 9 India booked their berth for the Athens Olympics hockey after beating Canada 6-4 in the final Pool B match of the qualifying tournament here today. The win also put India, with 10 points, in the semifinals of the competition. The second semifinalists from the pool will be decided after the match between Pakistan and New Zealand later in the day. Score: India 6 (Deepak Thakur-3; Arjun Halappa, Dilip Tirkey, Ignace Tirkey) beat Canada 4 (Sean Campbell-2, Rob Short, Paul Wettlaufer).
Jindal's Orissa steel plant to be completed in 3 phases
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
Jajpur (Orissa), Mar 9 The mega stainless steel plant being set up by Jindals at a cost of Rs 7,000 crore at Duburi in Jajpur district will be completed in three phases. Ratan Jindal, vice chairman and managing director of Jindal Stainless Steel Ltd (JSL), said the first phase of the plant would be commissioned by March 2005. The first phase would comprise 1.5 lakh tonnes of ferro chrome, 80,000 tonnes of ferro alloys and eight lakh tonnes of stainless steel production, said Jindal, who attended the 'bhoomi puja' of the project at Kalinga Nagar industrial complex, 50 km from here, yesterday. "The second phase is a duplication of the first phase and in the final phase we will put up the hot rolling and cold rolling mills," he said. The project envisaged 1.6 million tonnes of stainless steel production along with three lakh tonnes of ferro chrome, 1.6 tonnes of ferro manganese and ferro silicon and 500 MW of captive power generation when fully operationalised. The first module of ferro chrome and ferro alloys production would be ready for operation between February and July next year and would be followed by setting up of coke oven battery and blast furnace for steel production in two years, he said.
Jindal's Orissa steel plant to be completed in 3 phases
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
Jajpur (Orissa), Mar 9 The mega stainless steel plant being set up by Jindals at a cost of Rs 7,000 crore at Duburi in Jajpur district will be completed in three phases. Ratan Jindal, vice chairman and managing director of Jindal Stainless Steel Ltd (JSL), said the first phase of the plant would be commissioned by March 2005. The first phase would comprise 1.5 lakh tonnes of ferro chrome, 80,000 tonnes of ferro alloys and eight lakh tonnes of stainless steel production, said Jindal, who attended the 'bhoomi puja' of the project at Kalinga Nagar industrial complex, 50 km from here, yesterday. "The second phase is a duplication of the first phase and in the final phase we will put up the hot rolling and cold rolling mills," he said. The project envisaged 1.6 million tonnes of stainless steel production along with three lakh tonnes of ferro chrome, 1.6 tonnes of ferro manganese and ferro silicon and 500 MW of captive power generation when fully operationalised. The first module of ferro chrome and ferro alloys production would be ready for operation between February and July next year and would be followed by setting up of coke oven battery and blast furnace for steel production in two years, he said.
Russia formally hands over Gorshkov to Indian navy
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
MOSCOW, Mar 9 Russia today formally handed over the aircraft carrier Admiral Gorshkov to the Indian navy for the subsequent refit at a naval dock yard in North Russia. At a ceremony in the White Sea port city of Severodvinsk, Russian Deputy Defence Minister Colonel-General A M Moskovsky formally handed over the 44000-tonne ship to Indian Ambassador Krishnan Raghunath, who received it on behalf of India. "The handing over of the ship is an outstanding symbol of the Indo-Russian defence cooperation, as well as of close and long established friendship between the two countries, which has in recent years been consolidated into strategic partnership," an Indian Embassy release here said. Within 52 months of the handover Severodvinsk-based SevMash Naval shipbuilders have to deliver Admiral Gorshkov to the Indian Navy after repairs, and refit. Under the October 4, 2000 agreement signed during Russian President Vladimir Putin's first visit to New Delhi, Moscow is to give the ship for "free" to India. In pursuance of the acquisition deal, 16 contracts were signed on January 20, 2004 during Russian Defence Minister Sergei Ivanov's visit to India.
Indian Navy could have 2 aircraft carriers by 11
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
On Board INS Mumbai, Mar 9 With the indigenously built Air Defence Ship (ADS) coming out of "drawing board", the Indian Navy could have two aircraft carriers by 2011, Defence Minister George Fernandes indicated here. "The indigenously built ADS is out of drawing board and the first steel is likely to be cut by this year end. The aircraft carrier is likely to be inducted into the Indian Navy by 2011", Fernandes told a select group of mediapersons on board the missile destroyer off Goa Coast yesterday. The country has already finalised the Admiral Gorshkov deal and the Russian aircraft carrier was likely to be inducted into the Indian Navy soon. The Defence Minister's statement, who earlier witnessed breathtaking naval exercises somewhere in the blue waters of Arabian Sea, assumes significance in the backdrop of India's solitary aircraft carrier INS Virat being phased out in next 7-8 years. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Madhvendra Singh, who was also present on the occasion, said the Navy needs three aircraft carriers and the Government was well aware of "our concerns and accepts our position". However, due to financial constraints "we will have two aircraft carriers" and once the situation improves, which, he said would in near future, then the country can have three aircraft carriers.
Militant camps in Bangladesh, not in Myanmar: Army
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
Kolkata, Mar 9 The Army is not comtemplating any Bhutan-like operation in Myanmar to drive out anti-India militants operating from there since there was no evidence of any training camp present in that country, the G O C IN-C, Eastern Command, J S Verma, said. There might be only some stray militants in remote areas carrying out anti-India activity ''and such odd elements can be anywhere'', he said here today. However, the same could not be said of Bangladesh where there was overwhelming evidence of the presence of several anti-India militant camps carrying out activity directed against this country, Verma said. Inaugurating a friendly football match between Indian Army and Myanmar Army, as part of Indo-Myanmar Armed Forces Sports Meet here, he said that the deputy Prime Minister, L K Advani, had also referred to the presence of militant training camps in Bangladesh quoting different intelligence sources. The militants were operating either from their camps or the dense forest of Chittagong and Sylhet areas, Verma categorically said. Verma said that relations between India and Myanmar were fast improving with the ceasefire by NSCN in Nagaland and opening of road across the border at Moreh facilitating border trade between the two countries. The situation on the Bhutan-India border had considerably improved after the anti-India militants were ejected while the Indo-Nepal border remained peaceful. Verma and the Chief of the Myanmar Army delegation, Col. Aung San Tin, hoped that the exchange of sports events between the two countries would help promote friendly relations.
Shah Rukh Khan
Monday, March 8, 2004
That was quite a performance at the Filmfare awards! And the pot - shots at Aamir and Vivek were to die for. Did any one complain? Shah Rukh Khan will soon be seen in Ashutosh Gowarikar’s Swades Kis filmstar ki majaal hai jo Shah Rukh Khan ko kuch bole ! No, nobody complained. But they all know we are not disrespecting them. It was all in good fun: We made fun of ourselves too. How do you see your own performances? I work with the top five directors in the country and they always want to work with me. People would give an arm and a leg to work with them. So why shouldn't I repeat them? And my acting, that's the way I perform. If you don't like it, don't watch it. You've been seen smoking very openly in public. Is it really that hard to quit a bad habit? It must be. I've been trying to give it up for over 12 years now. But I know it's not a good thing. To all the youngsters reading this, I think smoking is a curse and you should not smoke because smoking kills you. Did your company Dreamz Unlimited become Red Chillies because all its major projects flopped? It's got nothing to do with that. I think Dreamz made very good films. I am very proud of Asoka and Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani , perhaps even more than Chalte Chalte and Main Hoon Na because those were our first films. Red Chillies is just an offshoot of that company because our other partners have come in. After outrightly rejecting Lagaan , you're now working with director Ashutosh Gowarikar in Swades . Comment. It's not that I rejected Lagaan . All the producers, including Ratan Jain had rejected that movie. They thought it wouldn't work as a film, and I wasn't ready to produce films on my own at the time. Ashutosh is an old friend. He wanted to make another film ( Swades ), he asked me and I agreed. Look Who's Talking is a politically incorrect column that puts celebrities in a spot and asks them questions that they really don’t want to answer.
Amid colour of Holi, Advani says NDA will return
Monday, March 8, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 7 Colours ran riot as Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani celebrated Holi at his residence here today asserting this was "not the last" celebration of the festival for the NDA government as he was confident of a repeat mandate. While enjoying the celebration with family members, relatives and close associates, including Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Advani spoke about his upcoming 'Bharat Uday' yatra, NDA government's performance during last six years and future aims and Indo-Pak relations. "I am confident that NDA government will return to power. So I do not consider this as our last Holi celebration," he said in answer to a reporters' question. He said the NDA was seeking mandate on the basis of its security and development-oriented performance during the last six years and on the promise of making India a developed nation by 2020. Maintaining that India had immense potential, Advani said still the country had remained backward because 'Swaraj' (self-governance) was not translated into 'suraj' (good-governance). "Our government has set an example of good governance." the Deputy Prime Minister said and added that "except for some opponents, everyone feels the same."
Vajpayee gives political tinge to Holi!
Monday, March 8, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 7 Giving a political tinge to Holi, the festival of colours, Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee today exuded confidence that people would vote his government back to power and that the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls should be fought on issues and in a peaceful manner. "Elections should be fought peacefully and on issues. Polls give an opportunity to people to bring in a change but the change should be only for such a government that can fulfil their wishes and aspirations," he told reporters at a "Holi Milan" celeberation programme at his residence. The Prime Minister said his government had been "trying for the last five years to fulfil the wishes of the people and in future we hope that people's mandate will be in our favour."
Kalam greets women on Women's Day
Monday, March 8, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 7 President A P J Abdul Kalam today greeted women on the occasion of International Women's Day and asked them to work for setting an "equitable society". "On this International Women's Day, I greet all (women) members success in shaping an equitable society," he said in a message on the eve of the International Women's Day. "With proven capability on many professions and tasks, you (women) can definitely play a proactive role in the mission of transforming India into a developed nation," he said. He emphasised on the importance of literacy movement by women to create an enlightened society and promote transparent governance at the grass root democratic level. "I am sure with your inherent characteristic of compassion, patience, perseverance, commitment, honest and hard work, you will be able to provide innovative solutions to societal issues and be a partner in making the nation prosperous, happy and a safe place to live," he said.
Tension in Bihar town
Monday, March 8, 2004
Ara (Bihar), Mar 7 Police patrolling was intensified as tension mounted when a child of a particular community was crushed to death by a tractor at Ramgarhiya mohalla in this Central Bihar town during Holi celebrations today, police said Angry members of a particular community blocked the road at Ramgarhiya mohalla under town police station here for several hours to protest against the incident. Additional police force was deployed in the area to maintain law and order following communal tension. No arrests have been made so far in this connection.
Indo-Russian ties consolidated
Monday, March 8, 2004
Moscow, March 7 Expressing his best wishes to the new Russian Premier Mikhail Fradkov for success in his new responsibilities, Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee has observed that Indo-Russian ties have been consolidated into a strategic partnership through joint efforts. In his message to Fradkov, Vajpayee appreciated the contribution made by him in the development of bilateral ties. "We regard you as a good friend of India and value your contributions to the development of our relationship in your previous capacities in the Government of Russian Federation," Vajpayee wrote. Fradkov, an old India hand, was formally appointed as post-Soviet Russia's 9th Prime Minister on Friday in a surprising cabinet reshuffle by President Vladimir Putin ahead of March 14 presidential polls. Vajpayee underscored that India-Russia relations are marked by continuity and stability and this relationship has been consolidated into a strategic partnership through joint efforts. "We look forward to working with you and your colleagues to further expand and strengthen our traditional friendship and cooperation to mutual benefit," the Prime Minister wrote in his message, text of which was released here by the Indian embassy.
India's Forex reserves touch USD 108.36 b
Monday, March 8, 2004
Mumbai, Mar 6 The country's foreign exchange reserves surged by US dollar 685 million to touch USD 108.36 billion following fresh inflows and revaluation of the US currency vis-a-vis other currencies for the week ended February 27. The foreign exchange reserves stood at USD 1,08,360 million following inflows of USD 685 million, according to the Reserve Bank of India's weekly statistical bulletin released here today. The foreign currency assets also saw a similar increase of USD 685 million to touch USD 1,04,069 million, it said. Gold reserves and special drawing rights during this period remained static at USD 4,289 million and USD two million respectively. India's Reserve Tranche Position (RTP) with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) declined by USD 13 million to USD 1,311 million, the central bank said adding, the RTP may change from time to time due to India's transactions with the IMF as well as changes in SDR exchange rates vis-a-vis rupee and the dollar. The loans and advances to central government continued with a nil balance while that to state governments were down by Rs 27.78 billion at Rs 42.20 billion, the RBI added.
We need to sustain intensity: Dravid
Monday, March 8, 2004
Kolkata, Mar 7 Taking a leaf out of India's impressive tour of Australia, vice-captain Rahul Dravid today said the team needs to sustain the intensity for the entire length of the upcoming Pakistan trip to come out with flying colours. "A key lesson learnt from the tour Down Under is that we have to play with the same intensity throughout. In Australia we played well in the Tests. But in the one-dayers they played better than us in the end," Dravid told newspersons here. "In Pakistan, we have to keep the intensity backed up by a solid showing in all the departments including bowling, fielding and catching," the star middle-order batsman said at the end of the first day's practice session of the three-day conditioning camp at the Eden Gardens. Dravid also refused to buy the theory that pressure would play a key role in determining the winners of the one-day and Test series. "One always has to endure pressure when playing for his country. I think both India and Pakistan will be under equal amount of pressure. It's not that one team will be under more pressure and the other side under less pressure," he said.
Sachin downplays his duel with Shoaib, says its Ind vs Pak
Friday, March 5, 2004
Mumbai, Mar 5 Batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar today played down his personal duel with Shoaib Akhtar during the upcoming tour of Pakistan and said the series was going to be a contest between two teams and not between individuals. "India vs Pakistan or India vs Australia series one factor is common and that is two countries playing against each other and not two individuals," Tendulkar told reporters after a practice session at the MIG Club here. Tendulkar, who is expected to play a key role in India's fortunes in the five one-dayers and the three Tests, said he was looking forward to an exciting contest between the two teams during the 40-day tour. "Personally, I am excited about going to Pakistan and it is a great feeling as I am going there after a long time. I have been practicing here for some time and I feel totally fit and am looking forward to the series", said Tendulkar, who incidentally made his debut during India's last tour of Pakistan in 1989-90. "Pakistan is a very good side with some extremely talented players. The competition is going to be very tough. It is a big tour for us. There could be some good days and a few bad days. But we will be playing to win," he said. Tendulkar said India should carry forward their fine showings in Australia to Pakistan and play with a positive mindset. "We played very positively during the recent Australian tour and if we play with the same positive attitude we can win matches in Pakistan."
Govt hikes FDI ceiling in private banks to 74 pc
Friday, March 5, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 5 Government today hiked foreign investment ceiling in private banks from 49 to 74 per cent and allowed foreign banks to set up subsidiaries in the country. A government notification said the overall foreign holding of 74 per cent will include foreign direct investment (FDI), foreign institutional investments (FII), NRI investments, initial public offers, private placements and ADRs/GDRs. Individual FII holding cannot exceed 10 per cent while the aggregate FII limit would be restricted to 26 per cent, which can go up to 49 per cent through the approval of the bank's board. Government also allowed foreign banks to open subsidiary in the country or operate through branches or a private bank with a maximum holding of 74 per cent stake. This assumes importance for foreign banks like HSBC, ABN AMRO Bank, Standard Chartered Bank and Nova Scotia which are eyeing subsidiaries in India following the relaxation of FDI norms. A foreign bank can set up a subsidiary either through conversion of existing branches into a subsidiary or through a fresh licence from RBI. The FDI hike in banking sector was first suggested by the N K Singh panel but the Finance Ministry and RBI have added a slew of stringent conditionalities to prevent ownership of banks going into wrong hands. The FDI ceiling will not be applicable for PSU banks while the limit remains at 26 per cent for insurance companies.
Inflation surges to 5.94 pc
Friday, March 5, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 5 A sharp rise in prices of fruits, vegetables and other primary items, notably poultry chicken, and costlier manufactured products pushed up inflation by 0.10 per cent to 5.94 per cent for the week ended February 21. The point-to-point price change, as measured by Wholesale Price Index (WPI), rose from the previous week's level of 5.84 per cent even as prices fell for textiles and condiments and spices. The index was 5.53 per cent in the year-ago period. The present movement of commodity prices is contrary to the expectations of Government and RBI, which hopes to rein in inflation at 4-4.5 per cent by the end of the current fiscal. The WPI was up by 0.3 per cent to 180 points during the latest reported week despite fuel price remaining firm for the fourth consecutive week and it was 169.9 points in the same period of 2002-03. Government revised upwards the inflation rate during the week ended December 27 to 5.86 per cent as compared to the provisional level of 5.75 per cent. The final WPI stood corrected at 176.9 points during the last week of December as against the provisional figure of 176.7 points. "The present (latest reported provisional) movement of inflation is rather erratic and is also a misnomer for the interest rate movements," said one dealer in the debt markets.
India, Israel sign deal for supply of Phalcon
Friday, March 5, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 5 In the biggest ever bilateral defence deal, India and Israel today signed a Rs 5,000 crore deal for the supply of three Phalcon advanced early warning system aircraft to be mounted on Russian-made IL-76 platform for Indian Air Force. All the three aircraft would be delivered within five years of advance payment being made, a defence ministry spokesman said. He said the deal had been signed by CR Mahapatra, Joint Secretary (AIR)and top officials of the visiting Israeli defence Ministry team.
Businessman killed, bank official injured in shootout in Patna
Friday, March 5, 2004
Patna, Mar 5 A prominent city businessman was shot dead and a senior bank official injured when unidentified gunmen opened fire at them in Budha Marg area here this morning. The gunmen opened fire when S P Singh, an auditor with Punjab National Bank, and businessman Ashish Jain along with two other persons were on a morning stroll, Superintendent of Police Amrit Raj said. Jain was declared brought dead at Patna Medical College and Hospital. The condition of Singh, who was operated upon at the hospital, was stated to be out of danger, he said. Raj said detection of an alleged fraud by Singh while auditing a loan account at the bank's Budha Colony branch was believed to be the reason behind the incident. Raids were being conducted at various places to arrest the culprits, he said.
Gujarat govt files 109 affidavits before Godhra riots commission
Friday, March 5, 2004
Ahmedabad, Mar 5 The Gujarat government has filed before the two-man commission comprising Justice (retd) G T Nanavati and Justice (retd) K G Shah 109 replies so far in the form of affidavits by various departments including police regarding their role and duty during the post-Godhra communal violence. The process that began in December last year would go on till mid March and the commission has communicated that anybody who wishes to cross-examine any witness should prepare and submit a list by March 19, commission sources said here today. The sources said that the affidavits were filed to save time as it would certainly be a speedier process that each official being called before the commission one at a time to depose. Police officials, municipal corporations and government departments submitted the affidavits in which they described their role during the communal riots in gujarat. This includes the affidavit of the former director general of police K Chakravarthi and ex-Ahmedabad city police commissioner P C Pande. The commission would commence hearing on April six, the sources said.
Bipana beats Karisma
Friday, March 5, 2004
Nepalese actress Bipana Thapa overtook Karisma Kapoor in bagging a role in the English film being made by an Indian expatriate. The reason, apparently was lower rates. Bipana is one of the leading ladies in the Nepalese film industry with about 30 films to her credit. The film, Remember Me is a revenge thriller by Antony Joy, being shot in Britain, Australia, Singapore and Malaysia.
After short break, Sonia roadshow back from March 15
Wednesday, March 3, 2004
LUCKNOW: Congress president Sonia Gandhi will again be hitting the roads in Uttar Pradesh after March 15 and this time her itinerary also includes Pilibhit, the parliamentary constituency of the estranged Gandhi family daughter-in-law, Maneka. Maneka has been contesting and winning from Pilibhit first on a Janata Dal ticket in 1996 and then as an Independent till 1999 and now there are indications that she may contest on the BJP symbol after formally joining the party. In 2002, she had floated her own outfit, Terai Vikas Dal, and entered into a seat-sharing arrangement with the BJP in the state during Assembly elections in 2002. This will be a first for Sonia; all these years she refused to hold any public rally in Maneka's constituency. ``The next leg of the roadshow is likely to take place between March 15 and 20 and this time it will be a three-day affair in Bundelkhand region of which Pilibhit is also a part,'' Congress spokesman Virendra Madan said. The election in the Rohilkhand region, which has 10 parliamentary constituencies, is scheduled to be held in the third phase of polling on May 10. At present, the Congress has only one seat (Rampur) out of the total 10 in the region but going by the large presence of Muslims in almost all of these seats, the party may an edge over rivals. Party sources said the Congress is banking heavily on Sonia's roadshows and is in no mood to hold larger public meetings for want of charismatic leaders in the party. However, the party has planned to take Priyanka Vadra nee Gandhi and Rahul to the areas their mother has already covered to ``convert support into votes''. ``We have completed the ground work necessary for elections and we will be the first to bring out the list of candidates. A massive meeting of the elected representatives of the Congress down to block level has been called at the party headquarters in Lucknow on March 3 which will be addressed by party general secretary Oscar Fernandes,'' said Madan. While the Congress claims to be the first one to come out with names, the BJP will wait till all the parties have revealed names of their candidates. ``The elections in the state will be held in three phases and we will also be coming out with our list in three phases. The caste factor of other party's candidates will be taken into consideration before we finalise our nominees for each parliamentary segment. We have already completed the initial exercise of shortlisting four to five candidates for all the 80 seats in the state but the parliamentary board will clear the final name,'' said BJP's state media incharge Vijay Pathak.
Advani's rath yatra to sally forth from Kanyakumari to New Delhi
Wednesday, March 3, 2004
HYDERABAD: Something that will be a reminiscent of the famous rath yatra in 1990 and the Janasandesh Yatra of 1996, Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani will kick off the party's poll campaign by undertaking a yatra from Kanyakumari to New Delhi. According to the tentative programme being finalised by the party's central leadership, Advani will begin the Rath Yatra in Kanyakumari on March 10. After making his way across Tamil Nadu and Karnataka for about six days, he will enter Andhra Pradesh from Bidar on March 16. For the next two days, Advani will cover Medak, Rangareddy, Hyderabad, Nalgonda, Warangal, Karimnagar, Nizamabad and Adilabad districts. He will proceed to Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan and New Delhi during his two-month long tour. The party hopes that the Advani's yatra will neutralise the impact, if any, of the Congress and TRS alliance. According to BJP sources, BJYM national president G Kishan Reddy left for New Delhi in the morning to finalise the Deputy Prime Minister's programmes in Andhra Pradesh. ``Advani will address public meetings in major towns besides scores of road-side meetings in the State,'' sources said.
UN report commends economic reforms followed by India
Wednesday, March 3, 2004
United Nations, March 2 Members of a UN Commission on 'Private Sector and Development' have commended the model of economic reforms followed by India which has led to multinational corporations becoming instruments of development along with domestic industry and entrepreneurs. In the developing world, some countries, like India, have been "very successful" in achieving rapid growth and overcoming poverty over the past 20 years, they said. The primary responsibility for development lies with the developing nations themselves. The rich countries should do their part but, more frequently than not, policy failures could be found in developing nations themselves, the Commision said in its report "Unleashing Entrepreneurship: Making Business Work for the Poor." The Commission, convened by Secretary-General Kofi Annan, has stressed the need for developing local entrepreneurship and making necessary changes in the local laws that would make foreign investors comfortable and attract investment. The primary responsibility for achieving growth and equitable development lies with the developing countries, the report said, adding "this responsibility includes creating the conditions that make it possible to secure the needed financial resources for investment." The 15-member Commission was co-chaired by Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin and Director of Yale University's Center for Study of Globalization Ernesto Zedillo and former President of Mexico. Among its members was Rajat Gupta, Senior Partner Worldwide Mckinsey and Co, of India.
B2B interactions between India-Pak win-win for both: Jaitley
Wednesday, March 3, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 2 Describing economy as the biggest unifying factor, Government today emphasised that business to business interactions between India and Pakistan were a win-win for both wherein they could supplement each other in changing global economic scenario. "Need of the hour is for businessmen to come face to face with Governments acting as the facilitator...Need today is how can roadblocks to trade be eliminated while improving and enhancing these avenues. There have been delegations after delegations since improvement in relations. These initiatives will go a long way in bringing peace," Commerce and Industry Minister Arun Jaitley said here. Terming bilateral trade as a win-win for both countries because of common geography, historic legacy, common language among others, he said both nations together could change the economic history and geography of the globe. Inaugurating a FICCI conference on India-Pakistan Economic Relations, Jaitley said invisible trade between the two countries was already on, there was a need to legitimise to achieve its full potential. Referring to South Asian Free Trade Agreement, he said while the process of becoming a common market was on way, consumers and trading community from both countries would stand to benefit from the initiative.
Two killed, 58 injured during 'Moharram' processions
Wednesday, March 3, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 2 Amidst stray incidents of violence that claimed two lives and left 58 people injured, 'Moharram', marking the martyrdom of Prophet Mohammed's grandson Imam Hussain in the battle of Karbala in 680 AD, was today observed by Muslims across the country. Two persons were killed and six injured during Moharram procession at different places in Bihar. One person was killed and six others injured in a clash between two groups of the same community who also threw stones at each other over taking out Taziya procession in Raudpur village of Begusarai. In another incident, a man died when the swords swung by frenzied youths in a Taziya procession hit him in Behri bazar area of Darbhanga district. Two persons were injured in a clash between members of two groups over taking out Taziya procession in Habidih village in Darbhanga. At least 50 people received minor injuries in stray violence in Uttar Pradesh. Thrity people were injured in a clash among members of the same community over taking out of 'Tazia' processions at Kasmiri Gate area in Ferozabad and 10 in another clash at Belthera Roa in Ballia. Ten people were injured at Sonari village in Maharjganj and Mura Pandey in Moradabad in clashes between members of two communities over taking out of Tazia procession. In West Bengal's Hooghly district, mourners turned violent after authorities refused to extend time four taking out the procession and threw stones at police and damaged a jeep, while in Srinagar 35 mourners, including some separatist leaders, were taken into preventive custody when they tried to take out the procession violating prohibitory orders.
Congress NCP fail to strike deal on seat-sharing
Wednesday, March 3, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 2 Congress and NCP led by Sharad Pawar tonight failed to strike a deal on seat sharing for Lok Sabha polls in Maharashtra but expressed confidence that they would wrap it up within a couple of days. Sources in both the Congress and NCP, said that they had come close to finalise the sharing of 48 seats in the state in which the Congress is likely to get 24 seats, followed by 18 for NCP, three for the RPI factions and one for Janata Dal (S). Two seats are kept for two other like-minded parties including one each for Samajwadi Party and RPI (Ambedkar) if they join the alliance, they said. "We had very fruitful discussions today, but yet to conclude the talks. One more sitting is necessary....in a couple of days" AICC General Secretary Vayalar Ravi and NCP leader Praful Patel told reporters after a three-hour meeting between the two sides at Pawar's residence here. The two parties, which were expected to clinch a deal at today's talks, could not reach an understanding as the NCP insisted on a "total package" on seats sought by it for Maharahstrae as also outside the state and the Congress wanted a couple of days to decide the issue, Patel indicated. Besides a large number of seats in Maharashtra, the NCP wants seats from Congress in several states including Goa, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Bihar, Manipur, Andhra Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh as part of an alliance against the BJP-led NDA. Both Ravi as also Patel insisted that there were neither any hitches nor problems in sewing up the deal.
Ram Temple issue can be resolved through agreement: Advani
Wednesday, March 3, 2004
New Delhi, Mar 2 Expressing confidence that only efforts of the Vajpayee Government could help build the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and also maintain communal harmony, Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani today said the "most favourable" way to resolve the issue was an agreement between the two communities and "this is going to come about". "We believe that only our government's efforts can help in the days ahead in building of the Ram Temple and in the maintenance of communal harmony," he said at a crowded press conference here. Advani said for long, it was held that there were only three ways to address the protracted Ram Mandir problem, which were through a court verdict, a Parliamentary decision or an agreement between the two principal communities (Hindus and Muslims) and their leaders. "We believe that it is the third approach that will be enduring and that will be the most favourable. And we also believe that on the basis of discussions we have had in the past six months or so, that this is possible and feasible and is going to come about," he said.
Abducted industrialist rescued from Bihar
Monday, March 1, 2004
Aurangabad, Mar 1 A prominent industrialist of Madhya Pradesh was rescued from his abductors from Bihar's Aurangabad district by a police party and 15 persons have been arrested in this connection, a senior police official said here today. Acting on specific information, the police team raided a house near an electricity office here and secured safe release of Tirath Gupta last night, Superintendent of Police M R Nayak said. Five persons were arrested from the spot, Nayak said, adding police earlier yesterday raided Nasib Market area in Patna and nabbed 10 persons in connection with abduction of Gupta from Satna in Madhya Pradesh on January 12. The abductors had demanded five crore rupees ransom for his release, the official said.
It is time to stop worrying too much about Pak tour: Ganguly
Monday, March 1, 2004
Mumbai, Feb 29 Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly today said it was time to stop worrying too much about the forthcoming tour of Pakistan and concentrate instead on performing to the best of their abilities in the series. "We have been worrying too much about the forthcoming tour. We have to go out there and perform to the best of our abilities and there are no two ways about it," he said. "I think it is time for us to stop worrying and treat it as any other series we have played in the past though this will be special because it is happening after 14 years." Ganguly, who is here to shoot for a commercial along with teammates Zaheer Khan, Rahul Dravid, Yuvraj Singh and Mohammad Kaif, said once the players go out in the middle, there will be no room to think about security or anything else except cricket. The stylish southpaw said he was confident of his team doing well in the three-Test and five-match one-day series. "The tour has already generated lot of exitement and the people concerned know that it is very important tour for both sides. We have to deliver the goods when it really matters and I am confident our team will do well." On the injury to some of his key bowlers, Ganguly said "according to my knowledge Zaheer Khan, Anil Kumble and Ajit Agarkar are reported fit and I presume they would be sending their fitness certificates to the Board before we meet to finalise the squad." Ganguly also said he was not worried about his form. "I can brush up the loose ends during the three-day camp in Kolkata" where a bowling coach was likely to be named for the tour.
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