Diaspora News
Third phase of elections begins
New Delhi, April 30 Balloting for round three of the staggered Lok Sabha elections got underway thursday morning in 107 constituencies in nine states and two union territories.
Obama for boosting ties with India
Washington, April 30 President Barack Obama 's pick for a key Pentagon policy post has indicated that he favours bolstering the relationship the previous Bush administration fashioned with India, 'a critical strategic partner of the United States.'
1 mn antiviral doses being procured
New Delhi, April 30 Indian health authorities on Thursday said one million doses of antiviral drug would be procured soon in addition to one million currently available in the stock to treat swine flu.
Bhasin heads Western Naval Command
Mumbai, April 30 Vice Admiral Sanjeev Bhasin on Thursday took over as the flag officer commanding-in-chief of the Western Naval Command from Vice Admiral J.S. Bedi.
'India's retail market attractive'
New Delhi, April 29 India as a retail market continues to be attractive to a lot of global players but the progression from expression of interest to the actual setting up of operations is slow, a survey conducted by a global real estate services firm indicates.
'Think about carbon credit trading'
New Delhi, April 29 Indian sugar industry has the potential to save millions of dollars annually by engaging in carbon credit trading and focusing on ethanol production, a top government official said here on Wednesday.
EU-India business summit in Oct
Brussels, April 29 A business partnership summit between India and the European Union (EU) will be held here October 1-3 to build a strategic partnership between India and the 27-member bloc, organisors of the event said on Wednesday.
Indian envoy to Nepal meets Koirala
Kathmandu, April 29 As the bitter battle between Nepal's ruling Maoist party and army chief General Rookmangud Katawal showed no sign of any resolution, India's Ambassador to Nepal Rakesh Sood on Wednesday met opposition leader and former prime minister Girija Prasad Koirala for consultations.
CERT, Microsoft to curb online crimes
New Delhi, April 29 The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) and software giant Microsoft Corp on Wednesday jointly launched a website 'secureyourpc.in', which will provide vital information to internet users on how to combat online threats.
Warne lauds young Indians in IPL
Johannesburg, April 29 Rajasthan Royals captain Shane Warne has lauded the young Indian players in the side as the ones who would ensure triumph for India in the World Cup Twenty20 in future.
'Kirtan award at Grammys'
London, April 29 Hindu scholars are calling on Grammy Awards bosses to add a new category for traditional Indian music at the annual awards ceremony.
Gambhir, Jhulan nominated for Arjuna
Mumbai, April 29 The Indian Cricket Board Wednesday nominated opening batsman Gautam Gambhir and women's team captain Jhulan Goswami for the prestigious Arjuna Award.
Mahindra gets order for 15,000 Xylo in three months
Kolkata, April 29 Auto major Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) has received huge bookings for its multi-utility vehicle Xylo in the last three months, a top official said here Wednesday.
Indian Navy ship foils piracy bid
New Delhi, April 28 After successfully combating piracy in the Gulf of Aden and indicating its growing footprint in the Indian Ocean, the Indian Navy has foiled a piracy bid off the island nation of the Seychelles and arrested nine pirates, an official said.
We admit our past mistakes, Clinton
Washington, April 28 Assuring India and China that it wants their economies to grow, the US has told representatives of the world's leading economies that it is no longer 'absent without leave' in the global warming debate.
Two Indian-led cos top tax payers
Washington, April 28 Citigroup and Motorola, two American corporate giants led by India-born CEOs, rank among the biggest taxpayers in the US despite their heavy losses due to the economic downturn, according to BusinessWeek.
BC starting India liaison office
Chandigarh, April 28 Despite the global economic meltdown, the government of Canada's British Columbia (BC) province is all set to establish a business investment and skills liaison office here to foster entrepreneurs and to encourage trade and investment from northern Indian states in BC and vice-versa.
Mahindra-Renault plans to expand
New Delhi, April 28 Renault and Indian auto major Mahindra and Mahindra, which jointly manufacture the sedan Logan in India, will expand their product portfolio to better utilise the capacity at their Nashik plant in Maharashtra.
Britannia buys partner in New Zealand
Mumbai, April 28 Biscuit major Britannia has bought out its partner Fonterra's 49 percent stake in their joint venture in New Zealand, Britannia New Zealand Foods, the company said in a regulatory statement on Tuesday.
Grab opportunities Malaysian Indians!
Johor Baru (Malaysia), April 28 The Malaysian government has exhorted the country's Indian community to emulate the ethnic Chinese in grabbing investment and business opportunities.
NRI to help create nano-vehicles
Washington, April 28 Imagine creating vehicles as tiny as a molecule, billions of which could fit into a millimetre and be powered by sugar.
'Cheery' Cherry prospects in Himachal
Shimla, April 28 Cherry growers in Himachal Pradesh, often called the country's fruit bowl, are hoping for a bumper crop.
Solar lanterns to benefit rural women
Washington, April 28 Lanterns powered by solar energy, that are now being promoted in India's villages as the way out of the electricity shortfall, benefit women and children the most, a new study led by an Indian American has found.
Tendulkar-Jaysuriya highlight of match
Port Elizabeth, April 28 Sachin Tendulkar and Sanath Jayasuriya produced a masterclass of Twenty20 batting in a century opening stand as Mumbai Indians recorded a whopping 92-run victory over Kolkata Knight Riders in an Indian Premier League (IPL) match here late Monday.
Big B remembers Feroz Khan
New Delhi, April 28 Mourning the death of veteran actor Feroz Khan, Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan says that despite several attempts in the past the two could not work together.
Gold glitters on Akshaya Tritiya
New Delhi/Mumbai/Chennai, April 27 Despite the high cost of the yellow metal and the slowdown, people bought gold jewellery in large numbers on Monday on Akshaya Tritiya, considered an auspicious day in the Hindu calendar for buying long-term assets like gold, silver and real estate.
Lanka ends operations against LTTE
Colombo, April 27 Amid mounting global concern over civilian suffering, Sri Lanka Monday announced that it was ending combat operations against the Tamil Tigers in a bid to end the deaths of non-combatants.
India assured greater say in WB, IMF
Washington, April 27 India and other developing nations have been assured greater say in the affairs of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), even as New Delhi offered $10 billion to address the worst global crisis in six decades.
World Bank to hasten reforms
Washington, April 27 The World Bank has agreed to accelerate reforms by its spring meeting in 2010 to give more voice to developing countries as demanded by India and other emerging economies.
G-20 to make 2010 a year of recovery
Washington, April 27 The Group of 20 major economies will have a summit meeting here in September to ensure that efforts to make 2010 a year of recovery from the severe global economic crisis are on track.
Australian films head India way too
New Delhi, April 27 International interest in India's Rs.100 billion ($2 billion) film industry is surging. After Hollywood giants, Australian filmmakers in search of innovative stories and financial partners are looking to India.
Bollywood remembers Feroz Khan as 'real royal' of Hindi cinema
New Delhi, April 27 Friend, mentor, excellent human being and real royal of Hindi cinema - that is how Bollywood remembers Feroz Khan, the filmmaker-actor who died after a year-long battle with cancer.
Bhushan takes charge as managing director of Air India
Mumbai, April 27 E.K. Bharat Bhushan, who currently serves as joint secretary and financial adviser in the civil aviation ministry, has assumed charge as the interim chairman and managing director of the state-run National Civil Aviation Co of India Ltd (NACIL).
Paramount links east, NE with South
Agartala, April 27 Chennai-based Paramount Airways has launched its operations on Monday connecting the eastern and northeastern region with the southern Indian cities.
India hikes Gorkha pensions
Kathmandu, April 27 While Nepali soldiers employed in the Gurkha regiments of the British Army are fuming over Britain's decision to offer full settlement rights to only about one-ninth of the 36,000 veterans, those serving in the Indian Army are rejoicing at the Indian government's decision to hike their pension funds to Rs.10 billion (over $200 million).
Laxmi Mittal still tops Rich List
London, April 26 Indian steelmaker Laxmi Niwas Mittal remains Britain's richest man, but is worth a massive 16.9 billion pounds less than last year, the Sunday Times Rich List said.
Indian brothers seduce Brits with veggie condoms
London, April 26 Indian-born businessmen Shandip and Ketan Shah are scoring it big in Britain with a new vegetarian condom that has proved to be a runaway success with health stores.
Obama, talk carefully: children offer sagely advice
New York, April 26 As President Barack Obama completes 100 days in office next week, the White House has received a book full of letters and drawings from children who have offered praise ('You should be on all dimes in the world'), advice ('Talk carefully') and suggestions ('Help us be nice').
US backs India's efforts on Lanka
Washington, April 25 The US has expressed support for India's efforts to end the fighting in Sri Lanka between the government forces and Tamil Tiger rebels.
Blake new US pointperson for S. Asia
Washington, April 25 President Barack Obama has named the US ambassador to Sri Lanka, Robert Blake, to replace Richard Boucher as the assistant secretary of state for South Asian affairs dealing with India and Pakistan.
'US Punjabis' raises funds for India
Yuba City (California), April 25 People of this so-called Punjabi village of northern California have raised $35,000 for the poor and orphans in India.
PIO helps design energy-saving PCs
Washington, April 25 Personal computers may soon save large amounts of energy by 'sleep talking'.
Shriram Leitwind to focus on exports
Chennai, April 25 Windmill marketing company Shriram Leitwind Ltd is hoping to export nearly 50 percent of its 1.5-MW wind turbine generators produced this fiscal, a top official said.
India positive about Lankan situation
New Delhi/Colombo, April 24 India said on Friday it was hopeful of a 'positive outcome' in Sri Lanka after two of its envoys met President Mahinda Rajapaksa in Colombo and conveyed New Delhi's concerns over the rising casualties and the plight of more than 100,000 Tamil civilians who fled the war zone this week.
NRI deposit to grow to Rs.34,649 cr
Thiruvananthapuram, April 24 Deposits by non-resident Indians (NRIs) in Kerala banks grew from Rs.31,865 crore in June 2008 to Rs.34,649 crore as on December 31, 2008, according to the State Level Bankers Committee (SLBC).
India expects $40 bn FDI this fiscal
New Delhi, April 24 Despite the global slowdown and recession in Europe and the US, India expects at least $40 billion as foreign direct investment (FDI) in the current fiscal, a senior industry ministry official said here on Friday.
Indian among 15 Yale World Fellows
Washington, April 24 Unmesh Brahme, an Indian corporate sustainability strategist for one of the largest international banks, has been named as one of 15 Yale World Fellows for this year.
Indians honoured for global research
New Delhi, April 24 Eight of India's leading scientists were on Friday honoured with Thomson Reuters Research Excellence – India Research Front Awards for their groundbreaking work and influential contribution to global research and development.
GCI to develop workforce in India
Bangalore, April 24 US-based talent management firm Global Crosswalk Inc (GCI), co-founded by two Indian expatriates, has set shop in India's IT hub to help companies develop global workforce for providing value-added/knowledge-based services.
Hire expert free, save on power bill
New Delhi, April 24 Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai spent $12,000 once to upgrade its electricity system, and is saving $17,000 a year on power bills. Many firms don't even have to pay any money upfront. They just save on the power bill, and pay a percentage of that saving to the expert.
'Technology protection pact required'
New Delhi, April 24 The US wants India to sign an agreement for end-use monitoring to receive 'sensitive' technology and equipment for counter-terrorism and defence purposes.
India and Poland sign two pacts
Warsaw, April 24 India and Poland signed two important agreements on health and tourism Friday as President Pratibha Patil began the official part of her four-day visit to Poland.
Recession to hit Indian students in US: diplomat
New Delhi, April 24 Recession is bound to hit Indians wanting to study in the US, but America is offering more scholarships, a senior American diplomat said on Friday.
Heavy wheat procurement in Punjab
Chandigarh, April 24 The Punjab government has released over Rs.85 billion as payment to farmers for wheat procurement, considered one of the largest such exercise in the world.
Govt change won't alter Indo-US ties
New Delhi, April 24 India-US relations that have warmed up considerably over the past few years are not dependent on a change in government in either country, US Deputy Chief of Mission Steven J. White said here on Friday.
Saran headed for climate meet
Washington, April 24 Prime Minister's special envoy on climate change issues, Shyam Saran, will lead the Indian delegation to a preparatory meeting of the Major Economies Forum on Energy and Climate here from April 27-28.
Publishers eye Indian market
London, April 24 Recession-hit readers in the US and Britain are spending less and less on books, forcing English language publishers to eye overseas markets, India in particular, to stay afloat.
Hillary impressed by Indian election
Washington, April 24 Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is impressed by the 'pretty good job' the Indians do of running their elections.
'Deposits with Kerala cooperative banks to beat slowdown'
Thiruvananthapuram, April 24 State Cooperation Minister G. SudhakaranSudhakaran on Friday said the total deposits in the 1,614 cooperative banks in Kerala would keep increasing despite the slowdown and touch Rs.50,000 crore by November.
President Patil arrives in Poland
Warsaw, April 23 President Pratibha Patil arrived here on Thursday on a four-day official visit to Poland, 13 years after the last visit by an Indian head of state. She is accompanied by a large business delegation.
'India, Poland must target $5 bn trade'
New Delhi, April 23 India and Poland should target raising the bilateral trade from $1 billion to $5 billion in the next five years, an Indian industry lobby report said on Thursday.
Mehrotra in Oxford poetry post race
London, April 23 It is a 300-year-old post at the venerable Oxford University and previous occupants include W.H. Auden, Matthew Arnold and Seamus Heaney. Now Indian poet and teacher A.K. Mehrotra's name is doing rounds as Oxford's new professor of poetry.
Economic slowdown changing travel trends, say experts
New Delhi, April 23 The economic downturn is unlikely to affect the Indian tourism industry but only trigger a change of travel trends and preferences in the market, according to industry experts.
PETA approaches Anoop Desai
New Delhi, April 23 Animal rights organisation People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India has approached the recently voted out'American Idol' contestant Anoop Desai to join hands with them for a cause.
HDFC Bank net up by nearly 40 pc
New Delhi, April 23 HDFC Bank on Thursday reported a 33.9 percent increase in its net profit to Rs.6.31 billion for the quarter ended March 31, compared to Rs.4.71 billion in the same period a year before.
Military plane project launched
Moscow, April 23 The Russian government has allocated an initial $64 million to part finance a joint project with India to develop a new military transport plane, a defence industry official said on Thursday.
New Audi A6 launched in India
New Delhi, April 23 German luxury car maker Audi Thursday launched a new variant of its existing sedan Audi A6 in the Indian market.
Millions vote in step two of election
New Delhi, April 23 As the proverbial Indian summer gathered force, millions of people across 12 Indian states voted on Thursday in step two of Election 2009 in an exercise that was largely peaceful barring insurgent violence in Assam and Jharkhand and political clashes in Andhra Pradesh.
RPL posts Rs.84 crore net profit
Mumbai, April 23 Reliance Petroleum Ltd (RPL), the refinery arm of the Mukesh Ambani-controlled Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL), on Thursday reported a net profit of Rs.84 crore ($17 million) for the quarter ended March 31 on a turnover of Rs.3,678 crore.
US advancing ties with India: Clinton
Washington, April 22 Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says the US is advancing its relationship with India as part of a wide-ranging diplomatic agenda to meet today's 'daunting challenges' topped by the situation in Pakistan and Afghanistan.
'Optimistic about economic recovery'
Bangalore, April 22 Wipro chairman Azim Premji on Wednesday said he was more optimistic now than a month ago about recovery in the Indian and the US markets after a huge amount of uncertainty.
India-Spain tie deepens
Madrid, April 22 India and Spain on Wednesday agreed on the need to reinforce multilateral financial institutions and to increase the contributions of their member countries, Spanish government sources said. Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero and Indian President Pratibha Patil also agreed to step up cooperation against international terrorism.
India, China to keep growing: IMF
Washington, April 22 Emerging Asia led by China and India is expected to continue to grow even as the global economy is projected to shrink by 1.3 percent in 2009 in the most severe recession since World War II, according to the IMF.
Gold jewellery exports up 23.64 pc
New Delhi, April 22 India's gold jewellery industry retained its sheen in 2008-09 despite the economic slowdown by posting 23.64 percent growth in exports, an industry lobby report said on Wednesday.
China airline to up Kolkata flights
Kolkata, April 22 China Eastern Airlines Co, one of China's leading state-owned carriers, on Wednesday said it will increase its flight services from Kolkata to Kunming from June.
Economy headed for slow recovery: IMF
Washington, April 22 With the world in the grip of the most severe recession since World War II, the global economy is projected to shrink by 1.3 percent in 2009, with a slow recovery expected next year, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
OCA backs India to host 2018 Games
New Delhi, April 22 Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) President Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah on Wednesday backed India to host the 2018 Asian Games in Delhi.
Playboy perfume enters Indian market
New Delhi, April 22 Even though America's famous magazine for men Playboy is banned in India, the brand has forayed into the Indian market on Wednesday by launching their perfume range for men.
G8 environment meet opens in Sicily
Syracuse (Italy), April 22 Delegates from the Group of Eight (G8) industrialised nations, plus major economies including China, India and Brazil, gathered here on Wednesday to discuss how to combat climate change at a time of deep economic crisis.
Patil to visit Poland Thursday
Warsaw, April 22 President Pratibha Patil arrives in Poland on a four-day visit on Thursday, the first trip here in 13 years by an Indian head of state to a country where India's profile has gone up tremendously in the last five years.
Lanka special emissary visiting India
New Delhi, April 22 With the plight of Tamil civilians in Sri Lanka becoming an electoral issue in India and boatloads of fleeing refugees landing in Tamil Nadu, Colombo is planning to send President Mahinda Rajapaksa's brother Basil as special envoy to assuage New Delhi's concerns.
Telecom growth continues
New Delhi, April 22 Continuing the telecom growth story, India added 15.87 million telephone connections during March as compared to 13.82 million a month earlier, says the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).
JSW Steel to invest Rs. 3,000 crore in 2009-10
New Delhi, April 22 (IANS) JSW Steel, one of the leading steel makers in the country, will invest Rs.3,000 crore in 2009-10 to expand its production capacity, a top official said here Wednesday.
How the ballot won over the bullet
Agartala, April 22 His life was shattered by terrorists' bullets, but that is not going to stop Amar Ranjan Shil from casting his first vote.
Gary Lineker reward for Goan player
London, April 22 A young footballer from Goa has been chosen to kick off the first Gary Lineker Football Scholarship.
President helps boost ties with Spain
Madrid, April 21 President Pratibha Patil on Tuesday stressed India's interest in boosting relations with Spain, where she became the first Indian head of state to make an official visit.
India's services revenues seen at $225 bn by 2020
New Delhi, April 21 India's technology and services industry can earn $225 billion in revenues by 2020 despite the current global economic crisis, said a study released here on Tuesday.
Central bank cuts key rates
Mumbai, April 21 India's Central bank cut key rates on Tuesday by 25 basis points in a move to infuse more liquidity into the system and stimulate lending growth.
Economy to grow by 6 pc: RBI
Mumbai, April 21 India's economy will grow by six percent this fiscal while inflation would rise to around four percent, the central bank said here Tuesday while announcing a 25 basis points cut in key rates in its annual economic policy review.
Services revenues at $225 bn by 2020
New Delhi, April 21 India's technology and services industry can earn $225 billion in revenues by 2020 despite the current global economic crisis, says a study released here on Tuesday.
India to gain in IMF quota
Washington, April 21 India, China, South Korea, Brazil and Mexico will see some of the largest gains in their quota shares in the International Monetary Fund to bring them closer to their evolving position in the world economy.
Russian plane to reach India in 2012
Moscow, April 21 Russia will deliver the modernised Admiral Gorshkov aircraft carrier to the Indian Navy in 2012, a senior shipbuilding industry official has said.
Indra Nooyi ranked 4th by Fortune
Washington, April 21 The Fortune 500 may be dominated by male CEOs, but Indra Nooyi, Indian American CEO of Pepsico is listed fourth among '15 women (who) show what it takes to lead' some of the America's biggest companies.
'Satyam to be stand-alone entity'
Hyderabad, April 20 Tech Mahindra, the new owner of Satyam Computer Services, Monday said the fraud-hit IT major would remain a stand-alone entity in the foreseeable future.
India launches two satellites
Sriharikota (Andhra Pradesh), April 20 India's all-weather defence surveillance satellite - radar imaging satellite (RISAT-2) - and the micro education satellite Anusat were successfully placed in orbit by an Indian rocket that flew from the spaceport here on early Monday morning.
RBI to present reviewed annual policy
Mumbai, April 20 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will present the annual review of its monetary policy here Tuesday, even as stakeholders saw the central bank leaving key rates untouched and an overall status quo on the measures.
Tata to invest $2 bn for GSM services
New Delhi, April 20 Tata Teleservices Ltd (TTSL), one of the leading mobile telephone service providers in the country using CDMA technology, on Monday said it will invest $2 billion to roll out services through the other technology, GSM.
Tourism to get infrastructure status
Jaipur, April 20 The government has approved 28 mega infrastructure projects to boost tourism, and is on the verge of granting it infrastructure sector status, Tourism Secretary Sujit Banerjee announced here on Monday.
Foreign funds turn net sellers
Mumbai, April 20 Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) disposed of shares worth $11.83 billion last fiscal, turning net sellers for the first time since 1998-99, data with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) shows.
School gets huge bill for banning kara
London, April 20 A school in Wales that had banned a Sikh student from wearing a kara (bracelet) has lost a high court battle over the issue and has been asked to pay 200,000 pounds ($293,000) in legal costs.
Polaris net profit up 79 percent
Chennai, April 20 Chennai-based Polaris Software Monday said its net profit was up 79 percent at Rs.130.71 crore for 2008-09, compared to Rs.73.22 crore earned the previous year.
Tractor maker claims record export
Chandigarh, April 19 The Punjab-based International Tractors (ITL), which sells tractors under the Sonalika brand, on Sunday claimed it has achieved the highest export sales among all manufacturers in the country during 2008-09.
Two NRIs named on Obama team
Washington, April 18 President Barack Obama has formed a three-man team, including two Indian Americans, to help break Washington's 'bad habits' of wasteful spending and move recession-hit America from recovery to prosperity.
Rajiv Shah on Obama's research team
Washington, April 18 President Barack Obama has named Rajiv J. Shah, an Indian American scientist managing a programme at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to help the world's poor lead healthy and productive lives, to a key post.
Over 60 pc voter turnout in polls
As the world's biggest electoral exercise got under way in India, the first phase of the 2009 Parliamentary elections on April 16 recorded 58-62 percent voter turnout.
British Columbia's office in India
Chandigarh, April 17 British Columbia will invest Rs.60 lakh in Chandigarh to set up an office of its in-market business investment and skills liaison representative, a senior official of the Canadian province said here.
Cultural fests in India and China
Beijing, April 17 A Festival of India will be held in China and a reciprocal Festival of China in India in 2010 with the aim 'to promote mutual awareness and understanding of the rich cultural heritage of each country'.
Hardeep Puri is India's new UN envoy
New Delhi, April 16 The government on Thursday announced the appointment of Hardeep Singh Puri, secretary in the external affairs ministry, as India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
'US investors should return to India'
New Delhi, April 16 Urging for 'greater US investment flow' into India, a top diplomat said here on Thursday that this was a good time for foreign institutional investors (FIIs) to return to the country as the economic situation was improving.
'Slumdog...' makers donate $744,000
New Delhi, April 16 The producers of multiple Oscar-winning movie 'Slumdog Millionaire' are hoping to change the lives of children living in Mumbai slums with a $744,000 programme aimed at providing healthcare and education to these kids.
CII launched IBF in China
New Delhi, April 16 The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) on Thursday launched an India Business Forum (IBF) in China, a lobby to promote bilateral trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.
Thales for JV with Samtel Avionics
New Delhi, April 16 European aerosapce major Thales announced on Thursday it had received official authorisation from the Foreign Investment Promotion Board to form a joint venture company with India's Samtel Avionics Ltd. to locally develop and produce helmet-mounted sight and display systems for Indian Air Force (IAF) combat jets.
Indian general election begins
New Delhi, April 16 Indians began voting on Thursday morning to pick a new 545-seat Lok Sabha in the first phase of staggered elections widely expected to throw up a split verdict.
ISRO ready for spy satellite launch
Chennai, April 16 India's defence surveillance capabilities will get a quantum boost on Monday with the launch of a sophisticated spy satellite that can see through fog and clouds, a facility that has been hitherto unavailable.
Tatas part of $600 mn global project
Johannesburg, April 16 India's Tata Communications on Thursday said they had joined a global consortium to build a $600-million cable system to extend faster international connectivity to countries in Africa at cheaper tariff.
L&T sees 25-35 pc growth
New Delhi, April 16 Indian construction major Larsen and Toubro (L&T) is bullish about its future and anticipates a healthy growth rate of 25 to 35 percent in order inflows in the current financial year, the company said on Thursday.
Inflation falls further to 0.18 pc
New Delhi, April 16 India's annual rate of inflation fell to 0.18 percent for the week ended April 4, from 0.26 percent the week before, official data showed on Thursday.
Ahluwalia to represent India at G20
New Delhi, April 16 Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia will represent India at next week's meeting in Washington among finance ministers of world's top 20 economies on how to regulate the global financial system in the wake of the worst economic crisis in six decades.
Infosys survives slowdown in economy
Bangalore, April 15 India's second largest IT bellwether Infosys Technologies, which survived the impact of slowdown in fiscal 2009, is bracing to stay afloat in a grim fiscal 2010.
India test fires nuke capable Prithvi
Balasore, April 15 India on Wednesday test fired the nuclear capable surface to surface Prithvi-II missile from a test range in Orissa, defence sources said.
L&T and Russia firm sign nuke pacts
Mumbai, April 15 Indian diversified conglomerate Larsen and Toubro (L&T) has further expanded its footprint in the nuclear power space, signing a pact with a Russian nuclear energy major to design and develop reactors for the Indian market, including four at Kudankulam in Tamil Nadu.
Silicon Valley firms eye India
Washington, April 15 With major companies in the Silicon Valley suffering the biggest slump since the dot-com bust, some firms are eyeing India and China to recover from the effects of a global economic meltdown.
Wellness industry growing 30-35 pc
New Delhi, April 15 Estimating India's market for 'wellness' services at Rs.110 billion ($2.2 billion), a report released on Wednesday has projected this industry to grow at an annual rate of 30-35 percent.
Malaysian PM makes rotis on Baisakhi
Kuala Lumpur, April 15 The Malaysian prime minister making rotis! That was exactly what Najib Tun Razak did when he visited a gurudwara here to greet the Sikh community on Baisakhi.
Mediterranean diet is best for heart
Toronto, April 15 A study by an Indian-origin Canadian researcher has established that the Mediterranean diet is the best for the health of your heart.
US to host finance ministers' meet
Washington, April 14 US Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner will host a meeting of finance ministers from the world's 20 top economies including India next week to discuss plans to increase oversight of the global financial system.
US approves spy plane deal with India
New Delhi, April 14 The US Congress has approved the sale of eight Boeing P8-I multi-mission spy planes to India, apparently clearing the decks for transfer of a variety of other sophisticated defence systems by the new Obama administration to New Delhi.
NRI businessman tries ballot luck
Chandigarh, April 14 An NRI businessman who returned to the country in 2008 after spending nearly 20 years abroad is trying his luck at the ballot in the Lok Sabha polls from Chandigarh.
NASA approach to tracking cyclones
Washington, April 14 A new NASA modelling approach could track the deadliest cyclones before they strike and save countless lives, besides predicting weather more accurately.
Sony Computer to launch Indian games
Kolkata, April 13 London-based Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) would launch six to seven Indian games this year, a top official said in Kolkata on Monday.
Indians top H-1B visa list in 2008
Washington, April 13 Indian nationals topped the list of H-1B work visas for highly skilled categories issued by the United States last year making up 38 percent of the total, according to an official report.
Air Arabia's gift to Indian tourists
New Delhi, April 13 Sharjah-based budget airline Air Arabia on Monday announced lucrative packages for its Indian passengers to travel to Greece, Egypt, Jordan and the Gulf region this summer.
Pfizer to raise stake in Indian arm
Mumbai, April 13 Global pharmaceutical major Pfizer on Monday said it will make an offer to acquire a further 33.77 percent in its Indian subsidiary Pfizer Ltd for Rs.6.8 billion. The acquisition will raise its stake to 75 percent.
Indian Navy chief to visit China
New Delhi, April 13 Seeking to engage the Chinese military on a broader level, Indian Navy chief Admiral Sureesh Mehta will undertake his maiden visit to China and attend the International Fleet Review beginning next week, an official said here on Monday.
India win Azlan Shah after 13 years
Ipoh (Malaysia), April 12 India ended a 13-year wait to clinch the Azlan Shah Cup hockey, beating hosts Malaysia 3-1 in the final here on Sunday.
Mittal is top soccer billionaire
Washington, April 12 Despite plunging steel prices, Indian-born steel czar Lakshmi Mittal with a net worth of $19.3 billion remains the world's richest soccer club owner in the Forbes list of soccer billionaires.
Indian cos. among 'unsung' innovators
Washington, April 12 Five Indian companies led by Tata Group's Indian Hotels, Godrej Industries and Yes Bank figure in the list of the world's 25 'unsung' innovative companies by BusinessWeek magazine.
'100 percent foreign fund required'
New Delhi, April 12 With merely 18 months left for the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games, India needs to allow 100 percent foreign investment in tourism infrastructure projects to boost tourism, says an industry lobby.
Pavers in expansion mode in India
New Delhi, April 12 Britain-based leather footwear major Pavers England, which entered the Indian market last year, is planning to set up a manufacturing facility in the country, besides tying up with retail chains as part its expansion strategy.
Africans bring raw power and excitement to Indian football
New Delhi, April 12 African footballers with their raw power and silken touch have invaded India like never before. They have given a new thrust to the game in the country at a time when Indian football is striving to catch up with the world's best.
16 mn pound bonus for Indian-origin banker
London, April 12 Karam Butalia, former global head of private equity at Standard Chartered, took home a 16 million pound pay packet before leaving the bank last year, making him the best-paid British banker, a newspaper reported Sunday.
No advanced developing country: India
Bonn, April 9 India has told the UN that there is no such thing as an 'advanced developing country' - a category that was sought to be introduced by Japan at a just-ended inconclusive global meet on climate change.
India's inflation falls to 0.26 %
New Delhi, April 9 India's annual rate of inflation fell marginally to 0.26 percent for the week ended March 28, from 0.31 percent the week before, official data showed on Thursday.
Long queues as Nano bookings start
New Delhi, April 9 Tata Motors showrooms across the country witnessed heavy footfalls Thursday as thousands of people queued for application forms to book their much-sought Nano, the jellybean-shaped small car.
India's defence industry to grow
New Delhi, April 9 India's defence offsets policy that mandates the reinvestment in the country of a percentage of all big ticket deals is expected to bring in $10 billion by 2011, says a new study.
India's largest hydrocarbon auction
New Delhi, April 9 India, on Thursday announced the auctions for 80 more hydrocarbon assets in the country, including 10 for coal-bed methane, in the largest such exercise under its new policy on oil and gas exploration.
Malaysian premier unveils new cabinet
Kuala Lumpur, April 9 Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak Thursday announced a new cabinet line-up of 28 ministers and 40 deputy ministers who he said represented the government's focus on reforms and change.
Indian students flock to New Zealand
Chandigarh, April 9 Indian students continue flocking to New Zealand for higher education and the number has increased by 300 percent in the last six years, says a diplomat from that country.
Canadian firm sticks to Indian steel
Washington, April 9 A Canadian pipeline company has defended the use of India-made steel for an oil pipeline project in President Barack Obama's home state of Illinois after a protest rally by hundreds of steel workers.
Singapore busts illegal labour supply
Singapore, April 9 Singapore authorities have busted an illegal labour supply syndicate which used to recruit workers from India, Bangladesh and China, a news report said on Thursday.
India's million-strong military prepares to vote
New Delhi, April 9 India's apolitical military is proactively preparing to vote in parliamentary elections only a week away.
Sachin to 'meet' his wax image
Mumbai, April 9 Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar will come face-to-face with his lookalike, his wax statue created by Madame Tussauds, here on Monday.
India disappointed of climate talks
Bonn, April 8 India said it was disappointed at the slow pace of progress as global talks to confront climate change ended in Bonn on Wednesday amid a widening chasm between developed and developing countries on the future course of action.
Make calls from US for 1 cent
New Delhi, April 8 Leading telecom service provider Bharti Airtel on Wednesday launched a new offer for its US customers which will enable them to make calls to India at 1 cent per minute using online calling cards.
Demand to raise US H-1B visa cap
Washington, April 8 Debunking the myth that H-1B visas steal American jobs, a US think tank has asked the Congress to instead raise the cap on them to promote economic growth and generate much needed tax revenue a few days after a Republican Congressman introduced a bill to aimed at keeping in the US foreigners doing their PhDs in the country.
India joins in to clean up oil spills
Kuwait, April 8 Eighteen years after the first Gulf War, India's Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) has joined the race for a $3-billion contract to clean up oil spills caused by the Iraq's invasion of the Gulf emirate in 1991.
Bookings for Tata Nano begin Thursday
New Delhi, April 8 Tata Motors were set to accept the application forms for the world's cheapest car, the 624-cc jelly-bean shaped Nano, from Thursday in what will be the steepest booking fee charged in India for an automobile.
NRI to make CFLs more efficient
Toronto, April 8 Compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs) use just one-third of the energy that old incandescent bulbs use to provide the same amount of light. Now CFLs are going to be even more efficient, thanks to research being led by an Indian American scientist.
Special title for NRI doctor
Kuala Lumpur, April 8 Malaysian Indian anaesthesiologist Subrahmanyam Balan is among this year's recipients of the traditional title announced in conjunction with the Sultan of Johor's birthday Wednesday.
Kal Penn to join White House
Washington, April 8 Kal Penn, Indian American star of Mira Nair's 'The Namesake' and a long time supporter of President Barack Obama, is joining the White House as a liaison between the administration and Asian constituents.
India sign pacts with Kuwait
Kuwait, April 7 India on Tuesday sought Kuwaiti investments in infrastructural projects ranging from petrochemicals to power and signed three pacts in areas of culture, education and science and technology.
India says no to green protectionism
Bonn, April 7 India Tuesday strongly rejected any attempt by the US or Europe to impose tariffs on exports of Indian goods produced in energy-intensive sectors.
India's bright idea at climate talks
Bonn, April 7 A member of the Indian delegation to the UN climate change talks here has been brandishing a light bulb in order to make a political point.
A microcosm of India in Kuwait
Kuwait City, April 7 The 580,000-strong Indian community in Kuwait, comprising self-made millionaires, techies, engineers, doctors, professionals and service workers, has created a 'microcosm of India' in the oil-rich Gulf emirate.
Obama appoints Anju in faith council
Washington, April 7 President Barack Obama has appointed Indian American management consultant Anju Bhargava, who is also an ordained 'pujari' (priest), as the member of a faith-based advisory council of the White House.
Kuwait greets vice president Ansari
Kuwait, April 6 In an unusual gesture, nearly half of Kuwait's cabinet turned up at the international airport to receive Indian Vice President Hamid Ansari on Monday as he began his three-day visit to the oil-rich Gulf emirate.
ICC to invest $5 bn in Bangladesh
Kolkata, April 6 City-based Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) on Monday announced that it will invest $5 billion in Bangladesh to set up a special economic zone (SEZ) aimed at attracting investments from India.
No climate deal that obstruct growth!
Bonn, April 6 India and China have told the United Nations a climate change agreement that slows down their economic growth and locks them into poverty is unacceptable to them.
FDI flow to India will remain robust
New Delhi, April 6 The global economic slowdown will not affect the foreign direct investment (FDI) flow to India as the domestic demand remains 'resilient', investment banker Goldman sachs said on Monday.
Made in India EVMs in demand abroad
New Delhi, April 6 Bhutan got them for its elections last year and Nepal has acquired them too. Indian-made Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) are making waves abroad, not just in our neighbourhood but right up to the African continent.
German broadcaster wooing Indians
New Delhi, April 6 At a time when channels are cutting costs due to the economic slump, Germany's international broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW) has launched two channels in Asia, including an India-centric lifestyle channel.
Satyajit Ray's film fest in New York
New York, April 6 The work of India's greatest filmmaker and one of cinema's greatest auteurs, Satyajit Ray, will be showcased in a special series by the prestigious Film Society of Lincoln Centre in New York from April 15-30.
Indian dance heads to Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur, April 6 Malaysia's classical dance guru Ramli Ibrahim has tied up with Australia-based Bharatnatyam and Kuchipudi exponent Anandvalli to stage a dance performance that sheds new light on Indian classical dance.
G20 a powerful global voice: Manmohan
London, April 3 Satisfied with the outcome of the G20 summit here and content that the final declaration reflected the issues raised by India, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Thursday said the forum can become a major global voice.
UAE Indian mission to air radio show
Dubai, April 3 Fresh after launching a monthly magazine to project India and the Indian diaspora in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Indian consulate here will launch a weekly radio programme on Saturday to complement the publication.
India got most of what it wanted
London, April 2 The following are the key points of the declaration issued by G20 leaders here on Thursday that suggest India, represented by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, got most of what it wanted from the crucial summit:
G20 leaders pledge $1.1 trillion
London, April 2 Leaders of the world's largest economies, including India on Thursday pledged a $1.1 trillion package alongside measures for a tighter regulation of the international financial system to help bring the world out of recession.
Manmohan Singh a 'powerful presence'
London, April 2 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had a quiet but 'powerful' presence at the Group of 20 (G20) summit of world leaders on Thursday, British Secretary of State for Business Lord Peter Mandelson said.
More funds for developing world
London, April 2 Drawing lessons from history, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh warned rich nations against protectionism and called for $500 billion fresh funds from the Internmational Monetary Fund (IMF) to help developing countries cope with the worst financial crisis in six decades.
Delhi to observe Earth Hour every month
New Delhi, April 2 The Delhi government has proposed to hold an Earth Hour on the last working day of every month, urging residents to switch off non essential lights to save power on the lines of the recently held global campaign.
Manmohan Singh calls for G20 'umpire'
London, April 1 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has said there is a need for an international 'umpire' to ensure that rich nations are fulfilling their pledges.
'Manmohan will be in demand at G20'
London, April 1 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will be sought after at the G20 summit, says the Financial Times that has a full-page interview with him ahead of the crucial meeting here on Thursday to find a way out of the worst global economic crisis in several decades.
Progress in tackling tax havens!
London, April 1 India and Britain see progress at the G20 in addressing the lack of transparency among tax havens that hide behind strict secrecy laws in their banking system to protect people who park their funds with them.
India benefiting from NSG clearance
Hyderabad, April 1 India has started benefiting from the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) clearance for supply of nuclear fuel with the first consignment of 60 tonnes of uranium from France landing at the Nuclear Fuel Complex (NFC) here.
'Sunita Williams, Rahman role models'
London, April 1 Astronaut Sunita Williams and Oscar-winning music composer A.R. Rahman are among the role models for young Indians who are driving a 'society on the move', Prime Minister Manmohan Singh says.
Hindustan Aeronautics sales up 19 pc
Bangalore, April 1 State-run defence behemoth Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) posted a turnover of Rs.10,260 crore in 2008-09, registering a 19 percent increase year-on-year from Rs.8,625 crore, the company said on Wednesday.
India in better shape: Sibal
New Delhi, April 1 India is in a better situation than any other country in the world when it comes to fiscal deficits and beating the slowdown, Science and Technology Minister Kapil Sibal said here on Wednesday.
India, Singapore navies seek synergy
Singapore, April 1 Naval warships from India and Singapore prepared to end week-long exercises on Thursday in the Andaman Sea aimed at ensuring maritime and coastal security and combating piracy on the high seas.
Kerala firm to co-produce animated TV series
Thiruvananthapuram, April 1 Toonz Animation, an animation software company located at the Technopark IT park here, and Spectra Animation of Canada, have entered into an agreement to co-produce 52 episodes of an animated TV series for pre-school children.
G20 stimulus package key to recovery
London, April 1 The Group of 20 (G20) summit in London needs to agree to a fiscal stimulus package if the world is to make a 2010 recovery from the current economic crisis, an informed source said on Wednesday.
Obama to meet Manmohan tomorrow
London, April 1 The much awaited meeting between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and US President Barack Obama here on Thursday will include a high-profile team from Washington, including Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
India's Air Force One takes off
New Delhi, April 1 Three Business Boeing Jets (BBJ) - all modelled on the US president's office-in-the-sky Air Force One - were on Wednesday inducted into the Communication Squadron of the Indian Air Force (IAF) by President Pratibha Patil.
Rahman to get honorary doctorate
Chennai, April 1 Music maestro and double-Oscar winner A.R. Rahman will be awarded an honorary doctorate by a British university in July, his musical institution's operational head said here on Wednesday.
Role for all races in 'One Malaysia': PM-in-waiting
Kuala Lumpur, April 1 The 'One Malaysia' concept is vital to recognise the contributions made by Malaysians of all races towards the development of the country, said Deputy Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak, who is expected to take over as the country's premier later this week.
Dalai Lama to lead 'dream spiritual team' at peace summit
Toronto, April 1 The Dalai Lama, who is an honorary citizen of Canada, will lead Nobel Peace Prize laureates at a global peace summit in Vancouver in September.
Most Influential Indians!
Washington, March 31 Seven Indians, including Congress party president Sonia Gandhi, industrialists Ratan Tata and Mukesh Ambani and media mogul Ronnie Screwvala are among the finalists in Time magazine's list of 100 Most Influential People of 2009.
Indian company gets Golden Award
Berlin, March 31 An Indian company, CICO Technologies, has been awarded the Golden Award for Quality and Business Prestige for the year 2008.
Boeing sets up R&D lab in Bangalore
Bangalore, March 31 Global aerospace major Boeing has set up a research and technology lab here to develop advanced aerospace technologies and solutions for its next-generation products and services, a senior official said on Tuesday.
Emirates announces new package on Kochi-Dubai sector
Kochi, March 31 Emirates Airlines Tuesday announced a 'companion offer' that extends a complimentary return ticket in the same class for a companion for a passenger travelling from here to Dubai.
Indian 'superpill' halves stroke risk
London, March 31 Indian medical scientists have announced a major breakthrough by developing a six-in-one pill that can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke and save millions of lives across the world.
No slowdown in postal insurance
Chennai/Chandigarh, March 31 Officials at the India Post Insurance Directorate, the insurance arm of India Post, are upbeat about business prospects, while the rest of the industry is struggling to cope with a slowdown.
India to voice concerns at G20
New Delhi, March 30 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh leaves on Tuesday for the G20 summit in London, where he is expected to voice concerns over growing protectionism of rich nations and push for free flow of credit to the developing world to help it tide over the economic crisis.
Mineral output rises in Apr-Dec '08
New Delhi, March 30 Mining sector output grew 3.03 percent in the first nine months this fiscal as compared to the corresponding period last fiscal, while it was 6.4 percent more in December than that in the corresponding month the year before, fresh statistics revealed on Monday.
Naomi Campbell might try Bollywood
London, March 30 International supermodel Naomi Campbell might be looking at a career in Bollywood after she floored film executives at the Lakme Fashion Week relief fundraiser in Mumbai recently.
'Slumdog' kid Rubina in commercial
London, March 30 After drawing acclaim for the multiple Oscar winning movie 'Slumdog Millionaire' and sashaying down the ramp in designer clothes, child actor Rubina Ali Qureshi has shot for a TV commercial with Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman.
'India Matters' launched in Dubai
Dubai, March 30 India Matters, a monthly magazine of the Indian consulate in Dubai, was launched by former Indian president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam at a glittering function here on Sunday night.
Diaspora mourns loss of Janet Jagan
London, March 30 India and its huge diaspora around the world have lost a great supporter in the death of Janet Jagan, former President of Guyana, and widow of the late Indian-origin President Cheddi Jagan.
Allahabad Bank tie up with UAE firm
Kolkata, March 30 City-based Allahabad Bank signed a pact Monday with the Gulf-based money transfer and exchange house UAE Exchange and Financial Services for promoting its own money transfer services, the company said here.
Paramount upbeat about expansion
Chennai, March 30 The global aviation industry may be facing one of its worst crises, but city-based carrier Paramount Airlines is busy drawing up strategies to expand its operations across the country.
Kavita Kaur to don $30 mn ensemble
Kuala Lumpur, March 30 Indian origin actress Kavita Kaur Sidhu is to don an ensemble worth $30 million, called 'Nightingale of Kuala Lumpur', which will be the highlight of a fashion show by top Malaysian designers.
Tamil film posters at New Jersey
Chennai, March 30 Tamil superstar Surya's 'Ayyan' is set for a world premiere on Friday. The actor says it is the first Tamil movie whose posters are being displayed at a metro station in New Jersey.
Obama invites India to climate meet
Washington, March 29 US President Barack Obama has invited the leaders of 16 major economies including India to Washington for a forum on energy and climate next month to prepare ground for a new global climate change regime.
Hindi for all in Trinidad and Tobago
Port-of-Spain, March 29 Hindi should become a part and parcel of Trinidad and Tobago, a minister said here, adding that the language should not be restricted to the people of Indian origin.
ASEAN to increase trade with India
Agartala, March 27 Members of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) will intensify business with the eight northeastern states of India, diplomats said here Friday.
SA hosts India business summit
Durban, March 27 The first Durban-India Business Summit was hosted here on Thursday to encourage trade and investment between the two countries.
SA urged to promote Indian drugs
Durban, March 27 Indian High Commissioner Rajiv Bhatia has called on South Africa to assist in the fight against major pharmaceutical companies which are trying to get generic medicines classified as counterfeit drugs.
EU calls to expedite FTA with India
Brussels, March 27 The European Parliament has expressed disappointment over the slow pace of negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India, EuAsiaNews reported.
Otis apologises for auction
New Delhi, March 27 US collector James Otis, who sparked a row by putting up for auction Mahatma Gandhi's belongings earlier this month, Friday apologised here for unintentionally hurting Indian sentiments. He said the money generated from the auction would go to organisations promoting Gandhian values.
PM's secretary meets Lankan prez
Colombo, March 26 Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh's principal secretary T.K.A. Nair, now on a four-day visit to the island nation, met Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa here on Thursday.
Slowdown, an opportunity for growth
New Delhi, March 26 While the global economic slowdown will impact India, the corporate sector feels the crisis is an opportunity for companies to position themselves prominently.
PM, Obama to meet on April 2
Washington, March 26 US President Barack Obama and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will meet for the first time in London on April 2 on the sidelines of the Group of 20 major economies summit on the global financial crisis.
India's inflation rate falls to 0.27%
New Delhi, March 26 India's annual rate of inflation declined for the eighth straight week and fell to another historic low of 0.27 percent for the week ended March 14, against 0.44 percent for the week before, official data showed on Thursday.
India-US to continue talks
Washington, March 25 India and the US have agreed to continue their high level dialogue on climate change in the run up to the Copenhagen conference to evolve a new global regime on the issue.
Chinese team to study IT sector
Thiruvananthapuram, March 25 An eight-member delegation from China's Shenyang city on Wednesday visited the information technology campus Technopark here to pick up tips on software outsourcing.
NRI finds genetics of skin formation
Washington, March 25 An Indian American researcher has discovered the genetic mastermind that controls skin formation. The finding could help address skin disorders like eczema, psoriasis and wrinkles.
Freida Pinto to star in Israeli film
London, March 25 Freida Pinto is going places, literally. After bagging a role in a Woody Allen film, the 'Slumdog Millionaire' star has now joined the cast of Israeli filmmaker Julian Schnabel's 'Miral'.
India tops remittances in 2008: WB
Washington, March 25 (IANS) With migrant workers facing job losses, anti-migrant sentiment and even violence in the deepening global financial crisis, World Bank researchers predict remittances will fall to $290 billion in 2009, from last year's high of $305 billion.
'Green label protectionism not good'
Washington, March 25 India has cautioned the developed world against attempts to introduce 'protectionism under green label' as it would only complicate efforts to evolve a 'fair and equitable' global regime on climate change.
India calls for strategic energy tie
Washington, March 25 India has suggested a strategic partnership between Indian and US businesses focusing on three Rs - renewables, reusables and recyclables - to meet the twin challenges of climate change action and energy security.
Opportunities in Obama agenda: India
Washington, March 25 Noting 'an obvious convergence' in Indian and US goals for promoting renewable energy, India sees many more opportunities for collaboration in President Barack Obama's decision to put climate change at the top of his agenda.
Bollywood stars, SA fans excited
Johannesburg, March 25 Cricket fans here are not the only ones excited because the Indian Premier League (IPL) Twenty20 tournament will be played in South Africa (SA) this year. Fans of Bollywood and Tamil film stars are thrilled too, as they know their idols will descend across the country with one team or the other.
Bring IPL to England, say NRIs
London, March 24 The cold and rain notwithstanding, leading Britons of Indian origin are ready to roll out the red carpet to the Indian Premier League (IPS) should the cricket tournament choose to play its second season in England.
Indian textiles showcased in SA
Johannesburg/Cape Town, March 24 Two dozen Indian manufacturers and exporters are showcasing their latest designer collections, fabric and yarn at a trade show as India said it is willing to assist South Africa in developing human capital to improve productivity and skills in the textile industry.
Indo-US to strengthen bilateral ties
Washington, March 24 India and the US should build on the goodwill created by their landmark civil nuclear deal to strengthen bilateral ties as also the global non-proliferation system, a senior US diplomat has suggested.
Little Nano's big splash in US media
Washington, March 24 The launch of India's small car Tata Nano made big news in the United States with top publications from Time magazine to the New York Times giving the story a big splash.
Will Nano stall or storm?
Toronto, March 24 With the launch of Nano, the world's cheapest car, making headlines across the world, a major Canadian daily asked Monday: Will the world's cheapest car stall or storm?
Indo-US envoy talks on climate change
Washington, March 24 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's special envoy on nuclear issues and climate change Shyam Saran is holding talks with the Obama administration focusing on cooperation in the field of renewable and clean energy.
India links CTBT to disarmament
Washington, March 24 India has asserted it would not sign the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty - a top non-proliferation priority of the Obama administration - unless the world moves 'categorically towards nuclear disarmament in a credible time-frame.'
Energy sector: Ghana invites Indians
New Delhi, March 24 With Ghana scouting for Indian investment for its alternate energy sector, firms here have begun to join the rush to secure land in the west African nation for biodiesel production.
My work in India got me Oscar: Resul
New Delhi, March 24 He admits that the condition of film technicians in India is 'pathetic', but Oscar-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty says he would still prefer staying and working in the country rather than chase international projects.
Bollywood film fest opens in Poland
Warsaw, March 24 Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan is already a household name in Poland. Now fans eagerly await another star Aamir Khan's directorial debut 'Taare Zameen Par' during a seven-day festival of Hindi films that opened here Monday and will travel to 12 Polish towns.
Indian-led study reveals death cause
New York, March 23 An Indian-born, Kolkata-educated scientist at Johns Hopkins University and his fellow researchers have found an answer to sudden death of healthy people, including athletes.
Bangladesh, India to renew protocol
Dhaka, March 23 Bangladesh and India began talks here on Monday to renew the inland water transit and trade protocol that is aimed at boosting river-borne trade between the two countries.
Children in Itarsi remember Jade
Itarsi (Madhya Pradesh), March 23 They may never have watched her on TV or even seen her photograph, but British reality TV star Jade Goody's death in far away London sent many children here into mourning. After all, it was Goody's secret donation that had helped better their lives.
Dhaka to import wheat from India
Dhaka, March 23 Bangladesh is to import 60,000 tonnes of wheat from India to meet its domestic demand.
India-Africa to boost business ties
New Delhi, March 22 Over 400 delegates from African countries are participating in a three-day India-Africa business conclave that started here on Sunday, seeking ways to boost bilateral economic ties, an industry lobby said.
MIC chief retains post for 11th term
Kuala Lumpur, March 22 Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) chief S. Samy Vellu Sunday retained the presidentship of the party for the 11th consecutive term after winning uncontested.
Chilean prez invites businesses
Chennai, March 20 Chilean President Michelle Bachelet Friday invited Indian IT companies to partner with their Chilean counterparts to 'build global projects' and also to help her country's development.
Stop memorabilia auctions: Ela Gandhi
Lucknow, March 20 Hurt by the recent auction of her grandfather Mahatma Gandhi's memorabilia in New York, renowned human rights activist Ela Gandhi has stressed the need to enact laws to prevent such auctions.
Britain confirms migrant tax
London, March 19 The British government on Thursday confirmed that workers and students from India and other countries outside Europe will have to pay a 50 pound tax for public services, prompting warnings that it risked stoking anti-immigrant sentiment among the general population.
Kakodkar to lead biz team to London
New Delhi, March 19 More than six months after the Nuclear Suppliers Group signalled the resumption of global nuclear trade with India, New Delhi is set to explore business and technology opportunities with Britain when a group of scientists led by Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) chief Anil Kakodkar travels to London next week.
Indian biz leaders meet Obama team
Washington, March 19 A group of Indian business leaders is in town to build bridges with the new Barack Obama administration and outline the opportunities as also the concerns to overcome in raising India-US commercial ties to a new level.
Italy knights Subhash Arora
New Delhi, March 19 Indian wine expert Subhash Arora and seven others, including a lawyer and an Odissi dancer, have been knighted by the Italian government for their exemplary services in promoting ties between India and Italy.
NRI's study on face identification
Washington, March 19 Recognising faces comes to us as easily as breathing, but how this is done has been a source of abiding mystery in neuroscience and psychology. Now an MIT study led by an Indian American says we recognise faces because a person's eyes appear darker than the forehead and cheeks.
China may soon get Indian basmati
New Delhi, March 19 India may soon be allowed to export basmati rice to China, Commerce Secretary G.K. Pillai said here on Thursday.
Anil Kapoor to act in US series '24'
London, March 19 After starring in the multiple Oscar winning 'Slumdog Millionaire', Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor will play an anti-terrorist cop in hit American TV action drama '24'.
Indian, US businessmen join hands
Washington, March 19 Captains of Indian and American industries have vowed to work together for the revival of the global economy while fighting growing calls for protectionism in either country.
'Freezing student hires to hurt US'
Washington, March 19 As major US firms cut back on plans to hire foreign students due to concerns over political backlash amidst growing job losses, a new study warns the move may only prove detrimental to America's economic health.
No need to rename Little India, MIC
Kuala Lumpur, March 19 The Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) has lent support to a plea by sections of the ethnic Indian community not to re-name 'Little India', a locality in Selangor state's Klang area that is famous as a tourism and shopping hub.
Jamia students, mentor go to Cannes
New Delhi, March 19 Beating off a stiff challenge from eight academies, two mass communications students of the Jamia Millia Islamia here and their mentor have won the right to represent Asia at the finals of the Sony World Photography Awards at Cannes next month, where they will face competitors from five other continents.
India's inflation dips to 0.44%
New Delhi, March 19 India's annual rate of inflation fell by as much as 200 basis points to a historic low of 0.44 percent for the week ended March 7 against 2.43 percent for the week before, official data showed Thursday.
Mahasweta Devi, Naipaul for Booker
London, March 18 Veteran Bengali writer Mahasweta Devi and Britain-based Indian-origin author Sir Vidya Naipaul were Wednesday named in the long list of the 60,000 pound third Man Booker International prize.
India continues to be strong: IMF
Washington, March 18 Commending India's strong economic performance in recent years, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said 'India confronts the current global economic and financial crisis from a position of strength.'
Oz campaign for Indian students
Melbourne, March 18 With global recession biting hard, Australia has launched a multi-million-dollar campaign to ensure that Indian students continue to come here for higher studies, as they have been doing in large numbers in recent years.
Obama's Indian American info czar back
Washington, March 18 President Barack Obama's Indian-American info czar Vivek Kundra, who had taken leave after an FBI raid on his former office, has returned to work after being informed that he is not a 'target of investigation'.
Blind voters to use EVMs in J&K
Jammu, March 18 For the first time in Jammu and Kashmir, all the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) to be used in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections will be Braille-enabled, allowing the visually-impaired voters to exercise their franchise without any assistance.
BSNL BlackBerry by April
New Delhi, March 18 State-owned telecom operator Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) will launch BlackBerry services by April, a top official said here Wednesday.
Slumdog Millionaire for China
Beijing, March 18 'Slumdog Millionaire', the Academy Award-winning best picture of the year, will hit Chinese screens March 26, an official said Wednesday.
Mahindra ups stake in SA venture
Johannesburg, March 18 Indian vehicle manufacturer Mahindra and Mahindra has increased its stake in the joint venture with its South African partner to 90 percent from 51 percent, and invested a further 30 million rands ($3 million) in the country's automotive business.
Irish beverage firms target India
New Delhi, March 18 Riding on the success of the Bailey's cream liqueur, Irish companies have lined up the launch of a wide range of whiskeys, stouts and liquors in the Indian market this year to give discerning consumers a taste of their brewing and distilling expertise that dates back 5,000 years.
India can build ships in Trinidad
Port-of-Spain, March 17 India can help to build ships in Trinidad and Tobago, which has retained a 'strong economy' despite the global slowdown, as it looks to widen ties with this Caribbean nation, nearly half of whose people are of Indian origin.
Citi's Pandit made $10.8 mn in 2008
Washington, March 17 Vikarm Pandit, the Indian American CEO of Citigroup, received a 2008 compensation valued at $10.8 million, the ailing bank that got billions of dollars in federal aid has disclosed.
B'lore youth wins contest in the US
Washington, March 17 A 23-year-old Indian youth, Bijoy Thangaraj of Bangalore, is among the four winners of a US State Department global online video contest to encourage cross-cultural understanding and community building.
Indian scientsts find new bacteria
Bangalore, March 16 Indian scientists have discovered three new species of bacteria in the upper atmosphere. The bacteria, highly resistant to ultra-violet radiation, are not found elsewhere on Earth, leading to speculation on whether they are extra-terrestrial in origin.
British filmmakers turn to Bollywood
London, March 16 The commercial and critical success of 'Slumdog Millionaire' is leading a string of British filmmakers to look to Bollywood for inspiration, a newspaper reported Monday.
India can create 2,500 MW from waste
New Delhi, March 16 With efficient recycling technology, India can generate about 2,500 MW of electricity from the metro's waste in the next three years at a cost of Rs.3 billion (Rs.300 crore), according to an industry lobby report.
Gandhi's watch part of tourism's past
New Delhi, March 16 Mahatma Gandhi's personal time-keeper, a Zenith pocket watch, which was acquired by liquor baron Vijay Mallya at a controversial New York auction, was a traveller's symbol of 'universality, punctuality and style', the manufacturer said Monday in a statement.
PM to meet Chile's president
New Delhi, March 16 With his health improving by the day after a coronary bypass surgery seven weeks ago, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will meet Chile's first woman president Michelle Bachelet here Tuesday.
IAF officer to go to space
New Delhi, March 16 When India's first manned space mission takes off, likely in 2017, it will have Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel on board.
HCL bags $350 mn outsourcing deal
New Delhi, March 16 HCL Technologies, a leading global IT solutions major, on Monday announced a $350-million deal from Reader's Digest spread over seven years to provide a wide range of outsourcing services.
Indian economy will revive faster: RBI
London, March 15 The Indian economy will likely revive faster than other countries though it is difficult to predict when, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor D. Subbarao said Sunday.
'Curry college needed in Britain'
London, March 15 Squeezed by tighter immigration rules, caterers and restaurants serving Indian food in Britain say they need a specialised curry college to save an industry facing 'catastrophe'.
NRI to captain West Indies team
Port of Spain, March 14 Denesh Ramdin, a Trinidadian whose forefathers came from India between 1845 and 1917 to work on sugar and cocoa plantations, has been named the captain of the West Indies cricket team that will face England in a series of one-day games starting here Sunday.
Ties will improve under Obama
Washington, March 12 India is confident its relationship with the US would move forward rapidly to the next level under President Barack Obama, taking off from where his predecessor George W. Bush left.
India's rate of inflation at 2.43%
New Delhi, March 12 India's annual rate of inflation fell further to 2.43 percent for the week ended Feb 28 from 3.03 the week before, official data showed Thursday.
Civil nuclear initiative on track
Washington, March 12 The landmark India-US civil nuclear initiative is on track with both sides determined to go forward with an initiative that has raised their relationship to a new level.
PM, Obama may meet at G-20 summit
Washington, March 12 The US and India are both hoping that President Barack Obama and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh would meet on the sidelines of next month's summit of Group of 20 leading economies in London.
Malaya Indian lawyer wins US award
Kuala Lumpur, March 12 Malaysian Bar Council President Ambiga Sreenevasan, an ethnic Indian, is one of the eight women who received the prestigious 'women of courage' award from Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton in US.
Ambani, Mittal in Forbes list of rich
Washington, March 12 Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani has overtaken the London-based steel tycoon Lakshmi N. Mittal to emerge as Asia's richest person, as per the Forbes' list of world billionaires for 2009.
Three NRIs in top 10 of science meet
Washington, March 11 Three Indian-Americans students have made it to the top 10 in what has been described as the brainy version of American Idol, introducing America's next top scientist.
Citigroup shares riseArun Kumar
Washington, March 10 Vikram Pandit, the Indian American chief executive of Citigroup Inc, Tuesday said the ailing banking giant was profitable during the first two months of the year and called its capital position 'strong' in remarks leading to a rise in the stock price.
US says it values ties with India
Washington, March 10 The United States declared it values the relationship with India as Foreign Secretary Shivshankar Menon began the first high-level interaction with President Barack Obama's administration with meetings with his chief diplomat and other top aides.
Indian envoys to Germany, Bhutan
New Delhi, March 9 The government Monday named Sudhir Vyas as India's next ambassador to Germany, an official statement said.
Indian auto sales up 10.61 percent
New Delhi, March 9 Indian automobile manufacturers sold 1.04 million vehicles in February, up 10.61 percent from 942,955 units sold in the same period last year, official data showed Monday.
Satyam starts bidding process
Hyderabad, March 9 Fraud-hit Satyam Computer Services Monday said that it had started the process to sell 51-percent majority stake in the company by way of a global auction after India's market regulator gave it the go-ahead last week to do so.
NRI who bid for Bapu’s memorabilia
New York, March 9 He was only 10 when he garlanded Mahatma Gandhi in Assam. More than six decades later, Canada-based Himadri Shekhar Roy hasn't forgotten that fleeting moment and was one of those who last week bid for Gandhi's possessions.
Take care of your skin this Holi!
New Delhi, March 9 Busy making some wild plans to smear and drench your friends with vibrant colours this Holi? Be careful. The fun can cause unwanted skin disorders; so just follow some safety tips for a safe and colourful Holi this year.
Otis to donate more Gandhi items
Washington, March 7 US collector James Otis has offered to donate a few more of Mahatma Gandhi's belongings to India provided New Delhi agrees to his proposal to substantially increase its spending on healthcare for the poor.
Indians in Forbes' donors list
Washington, March 6 Four Indians have been listed among Forbes' '48 Heroes of Philanthropy' who opened their cheque books for a cause even as the global financial crisis is hammering fortunes all over Asia.
Obama names Kundra infotech czar
Washington, March 5 US President Barack Obama Thursday named Vivek Kundra, a 34-year-old Indian American, as the federal chief information officer (CIO) at the White House to advance the administration's technology agenda.
Otis sets condition for no auction
Washington, March 5 US collector James Otis has formally offered to withdraw possessions of Mahatma Gandhi from sale if India agrees to either spend more on healthcare for the poor or support educational events to promote non-violent resistance. Meanwhile, Indian diplomats worked overtime to prevent the articles from going under the hammer Thursday (early Friday in India).
N-initiative opened news areas: Envoy
Washington, March 5 India is looking for new areas of cooperation with the US after signing a landmark civil nuclear deal last year, Indian ambassador to the US Ronen Sen has said.
India's inflation falls to 3.03%
New Delhi, March 5 India's annual rate of inflation fell for the fifth consecutive week to 3.03 percent for the week ended February 21 from 3.36 percent the week before, official data showed Thursday.
US consulate in Hyderabad in work
Hyderabad, March 5 Five months after it was inaugurated, the US consulate here has started visa services, fulfilling a long-pending demand of visa seekers from Andhra Pradesh and boosting Hyderabad's image as an international business destination.
Offshore Gulf townships vulnerable
Bangalore, March 5 Reclaimed islands and offshore luxury townships coming up in the Persian Gulf are potentially vulnerable to natural hazards like earthquakes and tsunamis, warns an Indian scientist.
Scholarship for studies in GIIS
Singapore, March 4 The Singapore-based Global Indian International School (GIIS) is offering scholarships to meritorious students from India who wish to pursue Std 11 & 12th studies there.
Hindu carvings by Muslim couple
Lucknow, March 5 Nearly 35 students sit carving intricate showpieces of Hindu gods and goddesses from wheat stalks in a house in an Uttar Pradesh village under the watchful eyes of a Muslim couple who perfected the art.
Student tour guides in Chandigarh
Chandigarh, March 5 Student guides well versed in foreign languages are being recruited here in an effort to help international tourists go around one of India's prettiest and planned cities.
PM meets Benin Prez post-surgery
New Delhi, March 4 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had his first official engagement Wednesday in more than a month after his heart bypass surgery. He met the visiting Benin President Boni Yayi at his 7 Race Course Road residence here.
Rs.6.16 bn investment cleared
New Delhi, March 4 A proposal from global hospitality major Accor to set up budget hotels in India is among the 28 foreign direct investment (FDI) proposals worth Rs.6.16 billion (Rs.616.08 crore/$119 million) cleared by the government, an official statement said Wednesday.
India invites Canadian mining firms
Toronto, March 4 India has sought Canadian mining knowhow to exploit its mineral resources.
Yoga doesn't contradict Islam
Bali, March 3 Yoga doesn't contradict Islam and is a means to healthy living, a well known Islamic scholar said here Tuesday, barely weeks after a fatwa was issued in Indonesia banning Muslims from practising the ancient Indian technique.
India test fires missile BrahMos
New Delhi, March 4 India test fired the land attack version of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile at the Pokharan range in Rajasthan Wednesday, six weeks after its failed test on Jan 20, an official here said.
WB to launch channel in India
New Delhi, March 4 Hollywood aficionados in India have a reason to smile as entertainment biggies Turner International India and Warner Bros. Entertainment will soon launch a new English entertainment channel WB.
'Slumdog' boosts aid to charities
Washington, March 4 The Mumbai-set Oscar-winning film 'Slumdog Millionaire', which brings the plight of slum children in India into focus, has sparked interest in charities that target the problem, according to US charity organisation CAFAmerica.
US collector declines Indian offer
Washington, March 4 A California collector who plans to sell possessions once owned by Mahatma Gandhi says he has rejected a 'generous but small' offer from India and barring a last minute agreement Thursday's planned auction would go ahead.
Vayalar Ravi, who assumed office as Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs on January 30, 2006, was born in 1937 in Vayalar village of Kerala's Alappuzha district... 
The star exhibit in the National Portrait Gallery's current show, 'The Indian Portrait', depicts the 17th-century Emperor...