Diaspora News
Indian teacher chosen for US space programme
Washington, Jan 31: A teacher from Maharashtra in India has been chosen for the US Space Foundation's elite 2012 Flight of Teacher Liaisons programme.
India, China rise makes Asia important: US
Washington, Jan 31: With the rise of China and India as world powers, Asia is becoming more important to America as Asian markets and suppliers drive the US economy, according to a senior US official.
US trade group sends life sciences mission to India
Washington, Jan 31: The US-India Business Council (USIBC), seeking better commercial ties with India, has launched a week long Life Sciences Executive Mission to India to coincide with Bangalore INDIA BIO Feb 6-8.
TCS opens new facility in California
New Delhi, Jan 31: India's IT bellwether Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) said it has opened a customer collaboration centre in California which will serve as the worldwide headquarters of the firm's mobility solutions unit, expanding its presence in the US.
Egypt brings new fusion culture package to India
New Delhi, Jan 31:The recent political turmoil in Egypt is scripting a new culture of fusion and hope, the country's envoy said at the opening of the Egyptian Cultural Week in India.
Sikhs get official gurdwara in UAE
Dubai, Jan 30: The Sikh community has got their first official gurdwara in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a media report said.
Sikhs urged to celebrate March 14 as Environment Day
Washington, Jan 30: Washington-based Sikh organization EcoSikh is appealing to Sikhs around the world to celebrate Mar 14 as a Sikh Environment Day for the second year. Guru Har Rai, a nature and animal lover, became the seventh Sikh Guru on this day in 1644.
485 'Mahatma Gandhi' kids set world record
Kolkata, Jan 30: Kolkata Sunday got a new entry into the Guinness World Records, with 485 children dressed as Mahatma Gandhi turning up for a peace walk, making it the largest such gathering.
India's first art biennale in Kochi
New Delhi, Jan 30: The Indian art scene has taken yet another global leap with the Kochi-Muziris Biennale -- the country's first official art biennale - to begin on Dec 12.
Now, Algeria wants to learn English from India
New Delhi, Jan 30: With only five percent of its people able to speak "good English", Algeria has invited Indians to teach the language in its universities, according to the envoy of the largely Arabic and French-speaking North African nation.
Aneesh Chopra, Obama's Indian American IT head, quits
Washington, Jan 28: Aneesh Chopra, President Barack Obama's information technology honcho, who was the highest ranking Indian American in the Obama administration, is leaving the White House, apparently to try his hand at politics.
Indian eatery owner buys jet to deliver food
London, Jan 28: The owner of an Indian restaurant in Britain has bought a fighter jet to deliver his food to celebrity clients across the world.
Time to study, invest in India, says Britain
London, Jan 28: India is making its mark on the global economy with 'electrifying skill, innovation and dynamism' and now is the time is right to study, invest and work with the country, British Foreign Secretary William Hague has said.
US to issue 14 percent more visas for Indians
New Delhi, Jan 28: The US has taken a number of steps to simplify and quicken visa process and target 14 percent yearly increase in travellers from India that would help further strengthen business and political ties, an American diplomat said Friday.
Indian community in US celebrates R-day
Washington, Jan 27: The Indian community in the US celebrated the Republic Day with the Ambassador Nirupama Rao unfurling the national flag at a colourful function at the Indian Embassy here on a rain swept chilly day.
India to help develop Trinidad as ICT hub
Port-of-Spain, Jan 27: India's Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme will facilitate the advancement of Trinidad and Tobago' s objective of becoming the ICT hub of the Caribbean and Latin America, according to Minister of Foreign Affairs and Communications Surujrattan Rambachan.
Finnair's Republic Day surprise: Bollywood jig by crew
Helsinki, Jan 27: This is something an air passenger will least expect on a flight even of an Indian carrier -- a Bollywood jig by a foreign crew, all dressed in dazzling salwar kameez and traditional Indian attires!
India, US to work for implementing N-deal
Washington, Jan 27: India and the United States have agreed to continue efforts to consolidate upon the 'tremendous progress' made in strengthening their global strategic partnership and work towards implementing their civil nuclear deal.
G-4 makes joint bid for UNSC expansion
United Nations, Jan 27: India, Brazil, Germany and Japan have made a joint bid for the expansion of the UN Security Council in both the permanent and non-permanent categories of membership.
India celebrates 63rd Republic Day
New Delhi, Jan 26: India on Thursday celebrated its 63rd Republic Day, showcasing its military might and the nation's rich cultural heritage.
Thai PM chief guest at Republic Day
New Delhi, Jan 26: Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra Thursday became the third consecutive leader from South East Asia to be the chief guest at India's Republic Day parade.
PM pays homage to unknown soldiers
New Delhi, Jan 26: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Thursday paid a solemn tribute to soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for the nation by laying a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate.
Poll panel's tableau - first in Republic Day parade history
New Delhi, Jan 26: The Election Commission of India marked its first presence at the Republic Day parade Thursday when its tableau rolled down Rajpath depicting a mammoth model of electronic voting machine and banners asking young Indians to vote.
India's Agni-IV n-capable missile showcased
New Delhi, Jan 26: Agni-IV, India's latest nuclear-capable strategic missile, was showcased publicly for the first time Thursday at the Republic Day parade.
Tears as Navdeep Singh gets posthumous Ashok Chakra
New Delhi, Jan 26: A mother wept, a greatful nation acknowledged one of its heroes. Lt Navdeep Singh, a young army commando who died battling terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, was Thursday posthumously conferred Ashok Chakra, India's highest peacetime gallantry medal, by President Pratibha Patil at the Republic Day celebrations.
Nambiar to become UN chief's adviser on Myanmar
United Nations, Jan 26: Veteran Indian diplomat Vijay Nambiar is stepping down as chef de cabinet of UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon to become his special adviser on Myanma.
Padma for Singapore ex-minister with Nalanda connect
New Delhi, Jan 26: Former Singapore foreign minister George Yong-Boon Yeo - named for a Padma Bhushan award Wednesday - is helping set up an international university in Bihar's Nalanda.
Eight people of Indian origin in Padma list
New Delhi, Jan 26: Ten people of Indian origin and foreigners have been awarded India's prestigious Padma awards announced Wednesday. While seven have got the Padma Bhushan, three are listed for the Padma Shri.
Palepu named global advisor to Harvard president
New York, Jan 25: Krishna G. Palepu has been named senior advisor for global strategy to Harvard University president Drew Faust.
India, US Sikh group object to Golden Temple comments
Washington, Jan 25: As India officially took up the issue of popular TV show host Jay Leno's objectionable depiction of the Golden Temple in Amritsar, a US based Sikh rights group lodged a complaint with Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
World Economic Forum to open in Davos
Moscow/Davos, Jan 25: The annual World Economic Forum is set to open in the Swiss ski resort town of Davos on Wednesday.
India, Pakistan discuss bilateral ties
Islamabad, Jan 25 : Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Sharat Sabharwal discussed bilateral ties with Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar here.
'Year of Water' to greet Indian tourists in Switzerland
Mumbai, Jan 25: Dedicating 2012 as the 'Year of Water', Switzerland Tourism will celebrate its famous glaciers, lakes and rivers and the role water plays in the lives of the Swiss for Indian tourists visiting the country, a tourism official said here on Tuesday.
Nigeria terror: Government to bring home Indian's body
New Delhi, Jan 24: India on Monday said it was making all efforts to get the body of an Indian victim in the Mumbai-style terror attack on Nigeria's second largest city of Kano.
India to Norway: Settle issue of Indian kids with family
New Delhi, Jan 24: India on Monday conveyed to Norway that it should work out a settlement with the immediate family of two kids who are now under foster care on the orders of a local court there.
US scholar keen on Shakespearean theatre in India
New Delhi, Jan 24: James Shapiro, the author of '1599: A Year in the Life of William Shakespeare' and 'Contested Will: Who Wrote Shakespeare', wants to tour India and the rest of the world to see how the bard has been given life in fresh ways by different cultures.
India, US on same side on freedom, development: envoy
Washington, Jan 24: The India-US relationship is defined by a pragmatic realisation that they are on the same side on eliminating forces threatening their freedom and development, according to Indian Ambassador to the US Nirupama Rao.
India takes over presidency of SAARC business chamber
New Delhi, Jan 24: India on Monday assumed presidency of the business chamber of the eight-member South Asia Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) after a gap of 12 years and said it would liberalise business visa norms to boost cross-border trade and investment in the region.
India's latest n-capable missile to be showcased on R'Day
New Delhi, Jan 24: Agni-IV, India's latest nuclear-capable strategic missile, will be showcased to the public for the first time as part of the static display atop a tableau that its developer, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), will be fielding during this year's Republic Day parade Thursday.
Indian, 161 others die in Mumbai-style Nigeria terror
Abuja, Jan 23: An Indian was among 162 people killed as heavily armed Islamists carried out a deadly Mumbai-style terror attack in Nigeria's second largest city Kano, media reports and Indian officials said Sunday.
Indian education needs flexibility: Indian American mathematician
New Delhi, Jan 23: Shortage of top quality mathematicians in India today could be due to lack of flexibility in the education system, feels prize-winning Indian American mathematician Srinivasa Varadhan.
Oprah connects to Jaipur with salwar-kameez, social message
Jaipur, Jan 23: The queen of television talk shows, Oprah Winfrey, connected to more than 10,000 people in this historic pink city with her message on education, awareness and empowerment of women.
Russia hands over Nerpa nuclear submarine to India
Moscow, Jan 23: Russia's K-152 Nerpa nuclear-powered attack submarine has been handed over to the Indian Navy, a RIA Novosti correspondent reported Monday.
INS Viraat team wins Western Fleet Regatta
Mumbai, Jan 23: Twelve teams representing Indian naval ships Sunday fought it out at for the top spot at the Western Fleet Pulling Regatta (WEFREG) with the team representing the Indian Navy's sole aircraft carrier, INS Viraat, emerging triumphant.
Indian artist to create climate change sculpture in Japan
Bhubaneswar, Jan 23: Indian sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik said Sunday he will craft a sculpture in Japan's Sapporo city next month on the impact of climate change.
Indian-origin scientists lead fundamental malaria discovery
Washington, Jan 21: A team led by two Indian-origin scientists has made a fundamental discovery in understanding how malaria cause the deadly disease.
Government sets up panel to promote tourism
New Delhi, Jan 21 To resolve inter-ministerial and industry issues and to promote tourism, the government has set up an inter-ministerial coordination committee for the sector under the chairmanship of Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister Pulok Chatterji.
Faith cuts through cold at Kashmiri saint's Urs
Srinagar, Jan 21: Hundreds of Hindus and Muslims from across the valley are thronging the shrine of Kashmiri saint Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom on his 10-day Urs here, braving sub-zero temperatures.
Wipro will hire 50 percent staff globally by 2015
Bangalore, Jan 21: Wipro would hire 50 percent of employees for its global IT services outside India by 2015 to leverage local talent and optimally utilise its delivery centres worldwide, a top company official said Friday.
Italy shipwreck: 75 Indians return, rest on way
New Delhi, Jan 20: A near-death experience and the sheer miracle to be alive. Around 75 Indians of the 200 rescued from the sunken Italian cruise ship 'Costa Concordia' returned home Thursday to the relief of their anxious families.
Violence against Indians in Oz not taken seriously: Author
New Delhi, Jan 20: Incidents of violence against Indians in Australia have not been addressed seriously by that country's top administrators, says Australian author Richard Flanagan.
India takes first step towards ultra super-critical boilers
Chennai, Jan 20: The first step towards India's own advanced ultra super- critical boiler for coal-fired power plants has been taken with the realisation of two materials that can tolerate very high temperature.
Kerala to have 450 e-toilets by March
Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 20: Kerala will have 450 functional e-toilets by the end of this fiscal, becoming the first state in India with Connected Toilet Infrastructure which would be on a par with health and hygiene standards of developed countries.
India grants scholarships to Sri Lankan students
Galle (Sri Lanka), Jan 20: India will extend more scholarships to meritorious Sri Lankan students in high schools and universities in the island, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna announced Thursday.
Indian-origin Sikh elected Mayor of Charlottesville in US
Washington, Jan 19: Seventy-year-old Satyendra Huja has been elected Mayor of Charlottesville city in the United States by the City Council, considering his three-decade long public service record in the 50,000-strong community.
NRI woman delivers baby in US train
New York, Jan 19: An Indian-origin woman gave birth to her first child during the train ride from New Jersey to New York, in what would be her most unforgettable journey.
British award for two Indian novelists
New Delhi, Jan 19: Cultural ties between India and Britain received a new boost with leading London-based literary agency Tibor Jones and the prestigious Foyles Bookstore honouring two emerging south Asian fiction writers, Sri Kumar Sen and Rohit Manchanda, with the maiden Tibor Jones South Asia Prize.
India to scale up ties with democratic Myanmar
New Delhi, Jan 19: Amid the democratic transition in Myanmar, Foreign Minister U. Wunna Maung Lwin comes to India next week, a visit expected to boost economic and energy ties between the two countries.
16th century Mumbai museum manuscript to be restored
Mumbai, Jan 19: A 16th century illustrated manuscript in a Mumbai museum will be restored with funds from Bank of America through its conservation project, officials said here Wednesday.
Ship's sinking: Captain refused to coordinate evacuation
Rome, Jan 18: A recorded conversation between the captain of a wrecked Italian cruise liner and a port official has revealed that he left the ship before all the passengers were evacuated.
India, China seal new border mechanism to enhance trust
New Delhi, Jan 18: Seeking to step up bilateral ties amid hiccups, India and China Tuesday decided to set up a new mechanism to maintain peace on their border, and resolved to enhance mutual trust as they ended the 15th round of boundary negotiations.
Krishna flies to Jaffna to assist ethnic Tamils
Colombo, Jan 18: India's External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Wednesday flew from by chopper to Kilinochchi on way to Jaffna in the northern province of Sri Lanka to meet ethnic Tamils.
Four Indian galleries, Husain tribute at Art Dubai 2012
New Delhi, Jan 18: Four top Indian galleries will carry a select showcase of classic and cutting-edge contemporary art, including a tribute to artist M.F. Husain, to the Art Dubai 2012 March 21-24.
India, Pakistan MPs hold talks on improving trade
Islamabad, Jan 18: Indian and Pakistani parliamentarians Tuesday discussed ways to improve trade and economic relations between the two countries.
29 missing in Italian cruise shipwreck
Rome, Jan 17: The number of people missing in the Italian cruise shipwreck near the coast of Tuscany rose to 29, Tgcom24 television reported citing local port authorities.
Captain blamed for Italy cruise ship accident
Rome, Jan 17: The head of the company that owns the cruise ship involved in a deadly accident off Italy's Tuscan coast has blamed the captain for the disaster.
Krishna holds talks with Sri Lankan president, PM
Colombo, Jan 17: India's External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna on Tuesday held a breakfast meeting with Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa on the second day of his four-day visit to the island nation.
Hasina promises to make S.D. Burman's ancestral house a museum
Agartala, Jan 17: Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has promised to convert the ancestral house of legendary music maestro Sachin Dev Burman in Bangladesh into a folk cultural institute-cum-museum, writers and scholars said here Tuesday.
15 MPs reach Pakistan for talks
Islamabad, Jan 17: A 15-member multi-party parliamentary delegation from India has arrived in Pakistan to take part in the third round of the Pakistan-India Parliamentarians' Dialogue.
130 Indians saved from Italian shipwreck, control room set up
New Delhi, Jan 16: India has set up a control room in both New Delhi and in its mission in Italy to help families find out about their relatives who were aboard a luxury liner which ran aground off the Tuscan coast in Italy. At least 130 Indians were aboard the ship but all of them have been saved.
Top EU official to visit India
Brussels, Jan 16: European Union (EU) foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton will visit India Monday-Tuesday and she is scheduled to meet External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna, Defence Minister A.K. Antony and National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon.
Krishna heads to Lanka, hopes for solution to Tamils' problems
Bangalore/New Delhi, Jan 16: External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Sunday hoped for a lasting political solution to the outstanding issues between the minority Tamil-speaking Sri Lankans and the government.
Death at Oxford: Not murder, says Rawlings' widow
London, Jan 14: The widow of an Oxford professor has denied her husband was murdered and termed as a 'tragic accident' his death at the home of his close friend, an Indian-origin mathematician Devinder Sivia.
Sivia and dead professor were like brothers, says his dad
London, Jan 14: Devinder Sivia, mathematics lecturer at Oxford University who was held for the death of professor Steven Rawlings and later released, was 'very, very good friends' with him and both were 'like brothers', the Indian-origin academic's father has said.
Held for friend's death, Sivia was wooed by British government
London, Jan 14: Indian-origin mathematics lecturer at Oxford University, Devinder Sivia, who was arrested and later released on bail after the body of a fellow academic was found at his home, was working with NASA earlier but had been wooed back by Britain to work in the country.
Oxford academic, now dead, suffered a breakdown last year
London, Jan 14: Oxford professor Steven Rawlings, who was found dead at the home of his Indian-origin mathematician friend, had last year suffered a breakdown and was 'found wandering around the village in his dressing gown in the middle of the night', a media report said.
France violated Sikh's right to wearing turban: UN
London, Jan 14: The UN rights committee has said France violated the religious freedom of a 76-year-old Sikh when he was asked to remove his turban for his ID photograph.
Cameron did not like BBC show he appeared in
London, Jan 14: British Prime Minister David Cameron did not like the controversial BBC programme 'Top Gear: India Special' that he appeared in, 10 Downing Street sources said.
Rare portraits of Gandhi to be auctioned in England
New Delhi, Jan 14: A set of three portraits drawn from the life of Mahatma Gandhi by artist Clare Winsten will be auctioned in England on Jan 24 at the Mullocks Auction House.
Indian MPs delegation to visit South American nations
New Delhi, Jan 14: Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar is leading an Indian parliamentary delegation on a week-long official visit to Chile, Uruguay and Paraguay for an interaction with parliamentarians of these countries that began on Friday.
Trinidad PM left 'lifetime' of memories for ancestral village
Bhelupur (Bihar), Jan 13: Not only her relatives, others too in this Bihar village were busy on Thursday discussing how Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar left them with emotions and a 'lifetime' of memories after her first ever visit to ancestral land.
Diaspora remittances 31.23 percent in Kerala: Study
Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 13: Remittances by the Kerala diaspora comprise 31.23 per cent of the net state domestic product of the southern state, a latest study has revealed.
Trinidad PM left 'lifetime' of memories for ancestral village
Bhelupur (Bihar), Jan 13: Not only her relatives, others too in this Bihar village were busy on Thursday discussing how Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar left them with emotions and a 'lifetime' of memories after her first ever visit to ancestral land.
Sam Pitroda to interact with 'social innovators'
New Delhi, Jan 13: Tech czar Sam Pitroda will lead nearly 100 young 'social innovators' at a daylong session here Jan 21 to discuss how technology can make social enterprises more effective.
Listen to Africa on African affairs: India to UN
United Nations, Jan 13: India has stressed the need for the UN and its Security Council to 'listen to Africa and its organizations' for a 'better understanding' of the situation in the continent.
Literary fests popularise books: Naseeruddin Shah
Kolkata, Jan 13: Actor Naseeruddin Shah feels that literary festivals play an important role in spreading awareness about books among the new generation.
India can be champion of globalisation: Lord Karan Billimoria
New Delhi, Jan 12: London-based entrepreneur Lord Karan Bilimoria says India, his country of birth, is 'making giant strides' and can be a beacon of globalisation in a time of global economic turmoil. He plans to expand his Cobra brand across India, particularly in 'happening' Bihar, and believes the country will one day be the world's second largest beer market.
India to aim at 8 pc plus growth: Namo Narain Meena
Jaipur, Jan 12: India's 'growth story is intact' and the goverment would target more than eight percent growth in the next financial year on the back of easing inflation and rate cuts by the central bank that would stimulate private investment and demand, says Minister of State for Finance Namo Narain Meena.
Indian-origin American gets bail in road accident case
Mumbai, Jan 12: An Indian-origin American student was Wednesday granted bail by a court here in a road accident and drunk driving case in which his girlfriend was killed Dec 30 last year, police said.
India tracking developments in Pakistan
New Delhi, Jan 12: With the tension mounting between the military and the civilian government following the dismissal of Pakistan's defence secretary, India is closely watching developments in the neighbouring country with which it has revived a peace process only months ago.
'Commonwealth leaders should reconnect with electorate'
Port-of-Spain, Jan 11: A delegation led by Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar is here to attend a parliamentary conference of speakers and presiding officers from the Commonwealth states.
Emotions flow as Trinidad's 'daughter PM' visits Bihar village
Bhelupur (Bihar), Jan 11: The entire village as well as hundreds from neighbouring areas gathered for a glimpse of the 'daughter PM' when Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar set foot in the land of her ancestors for the first time on Wednesday.
Norwegian delegation to study decentralised governance
New Delhi, Jan 11: A Norwegian delegation is on a four-day visit to India to study the functioning of decentralised governance under a mutual cooperation programme on local self-governance, officials said on Wednesday.
India, France sign pacts on three science projects
Bangalore, Jan 11: India and France will soon jointly work on three international science projects in the field of mathematics, informatics and immunology to strengthen cooperation between their research institutions.
Summit to ease growth of Kerala IT/ITES industry
Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 11: The India IT Summit of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) beginning here Jan 19 is expected to facilitate the growth of IT and IT-enabled service (ITES) industry in Kerala.
Shubha Mudgal's music fest to host conclave
New Delhi, Jan 11: Singer Shubha Mudgal and tabla maestro Aneesh Pradhan's annual music festival will introduce a conclave this time that will address various issues plaguing the music industry.
Increase investment in India: Pranab urges diaspora
Jaipur, Jan 9: Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has urged non-resident Indian (NRI) entrepreneures to increase investment in India, saying the the economic engagement of the diaspora was not been upto the potential so far.
Rajasthan invites diaspora youth to come visiting
Jaipur, Jan 9: Youth from the Indian diaspora will be invited to visit Rajasthan and know the state better, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot announced here.
Trinidad and Tobago keen to host mini Indian diaspora meet
Jaipur, Jan 9: Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar Sunday invited Indian investments in her country, assuring all possible help and said the Caribbean nation was keen to host a mini Indian diaspora meet.
Overseas Indians welcome right to vote
Jaipur, Jan 9: Non-resident Indians have hailed Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's announcement that the government would allow them to vote and participate in the election process, a long-tanding demand of the diaspora.
States woo diaspora for investment
Jaipur, Jan 9: Chief ministers of several states on Monday urged overseas Indians to step up investment, assuring a business-friendly environment.
Trinidad and Tobago to tie up with Jaipur institute
Jaipur, Jan 9: Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar Monday announced that her country will collaborate with Jaipur-based Shankara Group of Institutions for training of women, especially in the fields of agriculture and health.
Regional diaspora meet in Dubai this year: Ravi
Jaipur, Jan 9: The regional annual diaspora meet, the mini-Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, will be held in Dubai later this year, Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi said on Monday.
India honours 14 NRIs for enhancing global image
Jaipur, Jan 9: President Pratibha Patil Monday conferred the 'Pravasi Bharatiya Samman' awards to 14 eminent overseas Indians, including Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar, and a Canada-based institution, for their outstanding contributions in enhancing India's image globally.
Increase investment in India: Pranab urges diaspora
Jaipur, Jan 9: Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has urged non-resident Indian (NRI) entrepreneures to increase investment in India, saying the the economic engagement of the diaspora was not been upto the potential so far.
Rajasthan invites diaspora youth to come visiting
Jaipur, Jan 9: Youth from the Indian diaspora will be invited to visit Rajasthan and know the state better, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot announced here.
Trinidad and Tobago keen to host mini Indian diaspora meet
Jaipur, Jan 9: Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar Sunday invited Indian investments in her country, assuring all possible help and said the Caribbean nation was keen to host a mini Indian diaspora meet.
Overseas Indians welcome right to vote
Jaipur, Jan 9: Non-resident Indians have hailed Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's announcement that the government would allow them to vote and participate in the election process, a long-tanding demand of the diaspora.
States woo diaspora for investment
Jaipur, Jan 9: Chief ministers of several states on Monday urged overseas Indians to step up investment, assuring a business-friendly environment.
Trinidad and Tobago to tie up with Jaipur institute
Jaipur, Jan 9: Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar Monday announced that her country will collaborate with Jaipur-based Shankara Group of Institutions for training of women, especially in the fields of agriculture and health.
Regional diaspora meet in Dubai this year: Ravi
Jaipur, Jan 9: The regional annual diaspora meet, the mini-Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, will be held in Dubai later this year, Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi said on Monday.
Increase investment in India: Pranab urges diaspora
Jaipur, Jan 9: Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has urged non-resident Indian (NRI) entrepreneures to increase investment in India, saying the the economic engagement of the diaspora was not been upto the potential so far.
Rajasthan invites diaspora youth to come visiting
Jaipur, Jan 9: Youth from the Indian diaspora will be invited to visit Rajasthan and know the state better, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot announced here.
Trinidad and Tobago keen to host mini Indian diaspora meet
Jaipur, Jan 9: Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar Sunday invited Indian investments in her country, assuring all possible help and said the Caribbean nation was keen to host a mini Indian diaspora meet.
Overseas Indians welcome right to vote
Jaipur, Jan 9: Non-resident Indians have hailed Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's announcement that the government would allow them to vote and participate in the election process, a long-tanding demand of the diaspora.
States woo diaspora for investment
Jaipur, Jan 9: Chief ministers of several states on Monday urged overseas Indians to step up investment, assuring a business-friendly environment.
Trinidad and Tobago to tie up with Jaipur institute
Jaipur, Jan 9: Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar Monday announced that her country will collaborate with Jaipur-based Shankara Group of Institutions for training of women, especially in the fields of agriculture and health.
Increase investment in India: Pranab urges diaspora
Jaipur, Jan 9: Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has urged non-resident Indian (NRI) entrepreneures to increase investment in India, saying the the economic engagement of the diaspora was not been upto the potential so far.
States woo diaspora for investment
Jaipur, Jan 9: Chief ministers of several states on Monday urged overseas Indians to step up investment, assuring a business-friendly environment.
Rajasthan invites diaspora youth to come visiting
Jaipur, Jan 9: Youth from the Indian diaspora will be invited to visit Rajasthan and know the state better, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot announced here.
Trinidad and Tobago keen to host mini Indian diaspora meet
Jaipur, Jan 9: Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar Sunday invited Indian investments in her country, assuring all possible help and said the Caribbean nation was keen to host a mini Indian diaspora meet.
Overseas Indians welcome right to vote
Jaipur, Jan 9: Non-resident Indians have hailed Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's announcement that the government would allow them to vote and participate in the election process, a long-tanding demand of the diaspora.
Overseas Indians welcome right to vote
Jaipur, Jan 9: Non-resident Indians have hailed Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's announcement that the government would allow them to vote and participate in the election process, a long-tanding demand of the diaspora.
Increase investment in India: Pranab urges diaspora
Jaipur, Jan 9: Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has urged non-resident Indian (NRI) entrepreneures to increase investment in India, saying the the economic engagement of the diaspora was not been upto the potential so far.
Rajasthan invites diaspora youth to come visiting
Jaipur, Jan 9: Youth from the Indian diaspora will be invited to visit Rajasthan and know the state better, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot announced here.
Trinidad and Tobago keen to host mini Indian diaspora meet
Jaipur, Jan 9: Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar Sunday invited Indian investments in her country, assuring all possible help and said the Caribbean nation was keen to host a mini Indian diaspora meet.
Increase investment in India: Pranab urges diaspora
Jaipur, Jan 9: Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has urged non-resident Indian (NRI) entrepreneures to increase investment in India, saying the the economic engagement of the diaspora was not been upto the potential so far.
Rajasthan invites diaspora youth to come visiting
Jaipur, Jan 9: Youth from the Indian diaspora will be invited to visit Rajasthan and know the state better, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot announced here.
Trinidad and Tobago keen to host mini Indian diaspora meet
Jaipur, Jan 9: Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar Sunday invited Indian investments in her country, assuring all possible help and said the Caribbean nation was keen to host a mini Indian diaspora meet.
Increase investment in India: Pranab urges diaspora
Jaipur, Jan 9: Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has urged non-resident Indian (NRI) entrepreneures to increase investment in India, saying the the economic engagement of the diaspora was not been upto the potential so far.
Rajasthan invites diaspora youth to come visiting
Jaipur, Jan 9: Youth from the Indian diaspora will be invited to visit Rajasthan and know the state better, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot announced here.
Indian economy to grow at 7 percent in 2011-12: PM
Jaipur, Jan 8: Despite turbulence in developed economies, India's gross domestic product (GDP) will grow by 7 percent in the current fiscal and is geared to return to a higher growth path of 9-10 percent in the medium term on the back of strong fundamentals, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said on Sunday.
Govt concerned about diaspora's safety in Gulf, West Asia: PM
Jaipur, Jan 8: The Indian government is concerned about the safety and security of its diaspora living in areas like the Gulf and West Asia, Prime Minister Manmohn Singh said on Sunday.
Non-resident Indians get voting rights
Jaipur, Jan 8: Fulfilling the long-standing demand of its diaspora, India Sunday said it would allow Non-resident Indians (NRIs) to vote and participate in the election process."Pursuant to the law that was enacted to enable Non-resident Indians to vote in our national elections, the government has issued notifications for registration of overseas electors under the Representation of People Act, 1950," Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said.
India pushing Gulf countries for liberal labour laws
Jaipur, Jan 8: India will enter into bilateral agreements with the Gulf countries to curb exploitation of Indian labour in the region and ensure a decent working environment for its diaspora, Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi said on Sunday.
India seeks diaspora investment in energy, healthcare
Jaipur, Jan 8: India has asked its 30 million strong diaspora spread across over 130 countries to contribute in the development of healthcare, energy and infrastructure sector.
Overseas Indian workers to get pension, life insurance
Jaipur, Jan 7: The Indian government has launched a special pension and life insurance scheme that would benefit over 5 million unskilled and semi-skilled workers employed overseas mostly in Gulf countries on temporary contract visas.
Healthcare spending to be upped to 2.5 percent of GDP: Azad
Jaipur, Jan 7: India will increase spending on healthcare to 2.5 percent of its gross domestic product (GDP) during the 12th Five Year Plan that starts April 1, 2012, from the present level of around 1 percent, Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad said on Saturday.
Not expecting investment, but interaction with NRIs: Gehlot
Jaipur, Jan 7: Rajasthan is not expecting huge investments from NRIs taking part in the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (PBD) here, but intends to use the occasion to enhance interaction with the diaspora, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said on Saturday.
Gehlot calls on Trinidad and Tobago PM
Jaipur, Jan 7: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot met Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Prasad Bissesar, the chief guest at the Pravasi Bharati Divas, being held here Jan 7-9.
Bihar villagers upbeat ahead of T&T PM's visit
Patna, Jan 7: Ahead of Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar's visit to her ancestral village in Bihar, preparations are in full swing at the village and there is a general mood of festivity in the air.
'Pravasi Bharatiya' delegates excited to be in Jaipur
Jaipur, Jan 7: Non-resident Indian delegates, who have arrived in Jaipur to participate in the ongoing Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (PBD) are excited to be in the city. They say they want to make their three-day stay in Jaipur a life-long memory.
Bihar villagers upbeat ahead of T&T PM's visit
Patna, Jan 7: Ahead of Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar's visit to her ancestral village in Bihar, preparations are in full swing at the village and there is a general mood of festivity in the air.
Inclusive growth, youth in focus at annual diaspora conclave
Jaipur, Jan 6: India's annual conclave to connect with its 30 million diaspora in some 130 countries kicks off on Saturday in this Pink City, with the focus this time on inclusive growth and the youth.
PBD 2012: Over 500 to attend youth interactive session
Jaipur, Jan 06: Keeping youth in mind, an interactive session will be held at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2012 here on January 7.
Rock Street Journal editor drowns in Goa
Panaji, Jan 6: Amit Saigal, founder and editor of music magazine the Rock Street Journal, drowned while swimming off a Goa beach Thursday, officials said.
PBD-2012: Preparations in full swing in Jaipur
Jaipur, Jan 6: Preparations are in full swing in this Rajasthan capital for the three-day Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (PBD) diaspora conclave Jan 7-9, an official said Thursday.
Indian traders safe in Shanghai: Government
New Delhi, Jan 6: The government on Thursday said the two Indian traders, who were holed up in a China hotel and were facing threats following a business dispute, were safe in Shanghai.
Yoko Ono star of India-Japan friendship gala
New Delhi, Jan 6: Conceptual and multi-media artist Yoko Ono, wife of late Beatles icon John Lennon, is the shining star of the 60th anniversary celebrations of India-Japan friendship that began Jan 1.
Government committed to promote Sanskrit: PM
New Delhi, Jan 6: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Thursday said his government was committed to promote Sanskrit, a 'misunderstood language', which is 'the spirit of India'.
Trinidad and Tobago PM in India from Thursday
Port of Spain/New Delhi, Jan 5: Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar will be in India on a 10-day state visit beginning Thursday, during which she will be the chief guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Diaspora conclave in Jaipur Jan 7-9.
India secures release of its traders trapped in China
New Delhi, Jan 5: India has secured the release of two Indian traders tortured and taken captive by locals in a trading hub in China. The two were escorted safely to the consulate in Shanghai, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna said after talks with the Chinese envoy here.
UN accolade for Odisha tribals' green farming
Bhubaneshwar, Jan 5: A decade ago, Ralila Muduli, a tribal woman from Odisha's Koraput district, was struggling to feed her family of six. But then she was introduced to a nature friendly farming system which not only changed her condition but also got her tribe UN recognition.
Fossils, mineral rocks attract huge crowds at expo
Mumbai, Jan 5: A meteorite, the cast of a six-inch-long dinosaur claw and a huge amethyst are among a few hundred rare items that are wowing crowds at an expo on rocks, minerals and fossils here, with nearly 5,000 people turning up on the opening day itself.
Language theatre on centre-stage at META 2012 awards
New Delhi, Jan 5: India's unsung regional theatre will be at the centre of attention at the seventh annual Mahindra Excellence in Theatre Awards (META), one of the leading theatre awards, March 7.
Make your home free from corruption: APJ Kalam
Bhubaneshwar, Jan 4: Former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam has appealed to schoolchildren participating in the Indian Science Congress (ISC) here to work to make their home free from corruption.
Overseas Indian workers to get pension, insurance benefits
New Delhi, Jan 4: In order to provide social security cover to overseas Indian workers, the Union Cabinet has decided to set up a fund to provide pension and insurance benefits to them, official sources said.
Salman Rushdie for Jaipur Literature Fest this month
New Delhi, Jan 4: Breaking a minor jinx in India which began with last September'a failed Harud Festival in Kashmir, celebrated writer Salman Rushdie will attend the DSC Jaipur Literature Festival Jan 20-24, the organisers said.
British cops meet slain Indian student's kin again
Pune, Jan 4: For the second consecutive day Tuesday, British police officers visited the grief-stricken family of 23-year-old Indian student Anuj Bidve, who was shot dead in Manchester a day after Christmas.
What Guinness? My job is to run: Fauja Singh
Chandigarh, Jan 4: His marathons at the ripe old age of 100 may not have been recognised by Guinness World Records on technical grounds, but Punjab-born British citizen Fauja Singh says the only thing he cares about is to keep running.
Two Indian publishers win $5.9 mn Ethiopian contracts
Addis Ababa, Jan 4: Two Indian publishers have beaten off stiff international competition to win Ethiopian government contracts worth $5.9 million to print and distribute textbooks on six subjects, as also teachers' guides, a trend that has been consistent over the past three years.
China overtaking Indian science, R&D spending to double: PM
Bhubaneswar, Jan 3: Admitting that India's position in the world of science was being overtaken by countries like China, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Tuesday announced that spending on research and development (R&D) would more than double by the end of the Twelfth Plan.
Indian diplomat ill-treated in China, New Delhi protests
New Delhi, Jan 3: An Indian diplomat posted in China was ill-treated in a court near Shanghai, triggering a strong protest from New Delhi, which summoned a Chinese diplomat to the ministry of external affairs to convey its displeasure.
Anuj Bidve's killer remanded in custody
London, Jan 3: A man describing himself as 'Psycho Stapleton' was charged with murdering Indian student Anuj Bidve who was shot dead on Boxing Day, BBC reported.
British cops meet slain Indian student's kin
Pune, Jan 3: British police officers Monday evening visited the grief-stricken family of 23-year-old Indian student Anuj Bidve, who was shot dead in Manchester a day after Christmas. The officers told the family that the body will be handed to the Indian high commission after a second autopsy.
India, African connect through traditional crafts
New Delhi, Jan 3: The flavour of Africa lives in its colourful arts, crafts, people and exotic landscape. Eighteen African craftspeople from five countries -- Kenya, Ethiopia, South Africa, Uganda and Rwanda - are in the capital with a showcase of their handicrafts at the 25th annual Dastkari Haat Crafts Bazar.
Austrian composer Mozart's music to get rainbow cast in Delhi
New Delhi, Jan 3: Austrian composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart will get an Indian makeover in a concert of fusion music in the capital Jan 6-8.
Kamla Persad-Bissessar, a 'Pravasi Bharatiya' on her way to India
Port of Spain, Jan 2: Kamla Persad-Bissessar, the Indian-origin Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago in the Caribbean, will be going to India on Jan 2 on a state visit, where she will meet President Pratibha Patil and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and also be the chief guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) programme.
British police to visit family of slain Indian student
London, Jan 2: British police officers would visit India to meet the family of 23-year-old Indian student Anuj Bidve who was shot dead in Manchester a day after Christmas, officials said.
Indian-origin scientist to be honoured with knighthood
London, Jan 2: Indian-origin scientist Venkatraman Ramakrishnan, a winner of the 2009 Nobel Prize for chemistry, will be honoured with knighthood in 2012.
Five new UNSC members begin their term
United Nations, Jan 2: Azerbaijan, Guatemala, Morocco, Pakistan and Togo, the five new non-permanent members of the 15-nation UN Security Council (UNSC) have begun serving their two-year terms.
PM to begin New Year with prayers at Golden Temple
Amritsar, Dec 31: With his government having faced a tough year, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh wants to usher in the new year with prayers at the Harmandar Sahib, the holiest of Sikh shrines, popularly known as the Golden Temple.
President greets the nation for New Year
New Delhi, Dec 31: President Pratibha Patil on Saturday greeted the nation on the occasion of New Year. She expressed the hope that 2012 would bring happiness to the nation.
Indian-origin political leader dies in South Africa
Pretoria, Dec 31: Indian-origin political activist Amichand Rajbansi, leader of the Minority Front party in South Africa, has died at the age of 69, state-run news agency BuaNews reported.
India set to reopen military hospital in Tajikistan
New Delhi, Dec 31: India is all set to revive a military hospital it operated a decade ago in Tajikistan, a key Central Asian nation bordering Afghanistan.
Trinidad and Tobago PM to visit ancestral Bihar village
Patna, Dec 30: Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, whose ancestors migrated from Bihar to the Caribbean islands in the 19th century, will visit the state's Bhelupur village in January to trace her roots, officials said.
Hindus in Russia celebrate Gita verdict
New Delhi/Moscow, Dec 30: As Hindus in Russia celebrated their legal victory over efforts to have the Bhagavad Gita banned, they are bracing to counter any move by Tomsk city state prosecutors to appeal against the Siberian court verdict dismissing the plea to brand the revered text as 'extremist' literature.
Racism not ruled out in Indian student's killing
London, Dec 30: The killing of 23-year-old Indian student Anuj Bidve in Britain is being treated by police as a 'hate crime', after a woman who reportedly held the victim's hand as he lay dying said it appeared to have been 'very racial'.
Indian IT major automating Ethiopian customs system
Addis Ababa, Dec 30: An Indian IT major is assisting the Ethiopian Revenues and Customs Authority (ERCA) transform its valuation methodology to a transaction cost system from a minimum price setting system to prevent under-invoicing.
'Ban Gita' plea dismissed in Russia
New Delhi, December 29: Hindus in Russia posted a major victory in a hard-fought six-month legal battle as a Siberian court axed a plea seeking to ban the Bhagavad Gita and to brand the holy text 'extremist' literature, even as hopes were expressed that the state prosecutors do not appeal against the verdict.
Make 'Emerging Kerala 2012' a success: Chandy to diaspora
Thiruvananthapuram, December 29: Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Thursday called upon the Kerala diaspora to lend their support to make 'Emerging Kerala 2012' -- a state sponsored mega investors meet to be held in September -- a success.
Will always be considerate to Kerala diaspora: Chandy
Thiruvananthapuram, December 29: Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Thursday said his government will always be considerate to the needs, demands and views of the Non-Resident Keralites (NRKs).
India, Japan sign new $15bn currency swap deal
New Delhi, December 29: Ramping up strategic ties with India and Japan on Wednesday announced $4.5 billion for the landmark Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) project and agreed to accelerate negotiations for a civil nuclear deal, but made it clear that New Delhi has to square up with non-proliferation norms.
India, Oman sign memorandum on military cooperation
New Delhi, December 29: Providing a boost to their bilateral defence relations, India and Oman on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding for military cooperation for a five-year period.
India's national anthem completes a century
Kolkata, December 29: 'Jana Gana Mana...', India's lilting national anthem, completed 100 years this week.
'Ban Gita' plea dismissed in Russia
New Delhi, December 29: Hindus in Russia posted a major victory in a hard-fought six-month legal battle as a Siberian court axed a plea seeking to ban the Bhagavad Gita and to brand the holy text 'extremist' literature, even as hopes were expressed that the state prosecutors do not appeal against the verdict.
Make 'Emerging Kerala 2012' a success: Chandy to diaspora
Thiruvananthapuram, December 29: Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Thursday called upon the Kerala diaspora to lend their support to make 'Emerging Kerala 2012' -- a state sponsored mega investors meet to be held in September -- a success.
Will always be considerate to Kerala diaspora: Chandy
Thiruvananthapuram, December 29: Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Thursday said his government will always be considerate to the needs, demands and views of the Non-Resident Keralites (NRKs).
India, Japan sign new $15bn currency swap deal
New Delhi, December 29: Ramping up strategic ties with India and Japan on Wednesday announced $4.5 billion for the landmark Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) project and agreed to accelerate negotiations for a civil nuclear deal, but made it clear that New Delhi has to square up with non-proliferation norms.
India, Oman sign memorandum on military cooperation
New Delhi, December 29: Providing a boost to their bilateral defence relations, India and Oman on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding for military cooperation for a five-year period.
India's national anthem completes a century
Kolkata, December 29: 'Jana Gana Mana...', India's lilting national anthem, completed 100 years this week.
Japanese PM welcomes progress in N-talks
New Delhi, Dec 28: Welcoming the 'progress' in civil nuclear talks with India, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda on Wednesday said he hoped 'mutually acceptable results' will be achieved. He also underlined that New Delhi should appreciate Japan's sentiments on disarmament and maintain its moratorium on testing.
One held as Indian's killing in Britain sparks outrage
London, Dec 28: A 17-year-old British youth has been arrested over the fatal shooting of Indian student Anuj Bidve in Manchester. The killing triggered condemnation on social networking website Facebook, with people terming the killers 'scumbags' and 'vermin'.
India, Pakistan to renew N-accidents pact
Islamabad/New Delhi, Dec 28: Senior officials of India and Pakistan ended their two-day talks in Islamabad by agreeing to consider renewing for another five years a pact on reducing nuclear accidents and to explore additional confidence-building measures (CBMs).
Slovenia invites Indian investments and tourists
Chennai, Dec 28: In order to increase the bilateral trade with India, the southern European country of Slovenia is inviting investments in its auto sector while its engineering companies are open to transfer technology to Indian corporates, said the country's envoy.
India, Japan to talk N-deal talks, currency swap
New Delhi, Dec 27: India and Japan will discuss on Wednesday the prospects of reviving civil nuclear cooperation negotiations and may sign a currency swap pact that could help stem the rupee's slide.
Remove heavy guns from LoC: Pakistan proposes to India
Washington, Dec 27: Heavy artillery should be removed from the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan has suggested to India during the two-day talks being held in Islamabad on conventional and nuclear confidence building measures (CBMs), a media report said.
Core industries growth rebounds to 6.8 percent
New Delhi, Dec 27: India's core industries grew 6.8 percent in November, compared to just 0.3 percent in October, raising hopes of a rebound in overall factory output, official data showed. In November 2010, the core industries growth was 3.7 percent.
Krishna meets Russian envoy over Gita row
New Delhi, Dec 27: A day before a court in the Siberian town of Tomsk delivers its verdict on a move to ban the Bhagavad Gita, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna here Tuesday met Russian ambassador Alexander Kadakin and conveyed India's hope that the issue will be resolved keeping in mind the sentiments of Indians.
Young minds not pursuing maths: PM
Chennai, Dec 26: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has expressed concern that young minds with a natural ability for mathematics were not pursuing the discipline at an advanced level, resulting in a 'decline in the quality of maths teachers at the school and college level'.
Indians top founders of US venture-funded firms
Washington, Dec 26: Immigrants, with the largest number coming from India, have started nearly half of America's top 50 venture-funded companies in the US creating about 150 jobs each, according to a new report.
Hindus build Krishna temple in Moscow
New Delhi, Dec 26: Hindus and Krishna devotees may be fighting a court battle in the Siberian city of Tomsk against a move to ban the Bhagavad Gita, but their 40-year quest to find a foothold in Russia is taking shape in the construction of a massive temple on Moscow's outskirts.
2011: Momentous moments of Indian sports
New Delhi, Dec 26: Indian sports had some adrenaline-rush moments in 2011. The second cricket World Cup crown, Formula One coming to New Delhi and Virender Sehwag's record double ton f the main sporting highlights of the year.
India gears up to host BRICS summit in March
New Delhi, December 24: India has kicked off preparations to host leaders of the five-nation BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) grouping in March with a competition to design a logo for the 2012 summit.
India owns copyright to Buddhism: Karmapa Lama
New Delhi, December 24: Asserting that the noble land of India owned the copyright to Buddhism, the 17th Karmapa Lama, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, flagged off a grand three-day service in the capital on Friday on the occasion of the Karma Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism completing 900 years, saying the faith had made a symbolic return to the land of its birth.
India, Thailand to hold talks
New Delhi, December 24: The foreign ministers of India and Thailand will hold talks here on Tuesday that will focus on expanding economic ties and set the stage for the forthcoming visit of Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra next year.
Indian American launches a virtual tutoring portal
Washington, December 24: Though originally aimed at teaching Hindi to Indian children in the US, an Indian American has launched a virtual tutoring portal for teaching various academic levels as well as 18 languages.
6.7 percent ethnic Indians in Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur, December 24: Around 6.7 percent of Malaysia's total population of 27.5 million are people of Indian origin, according to the country's latest census report.
Japanese PM in India next week, N-deal on agenda
New Delhi, December 23: India and Japan will seek to push their stalled nuclear talks and focus on expanding economic ties when Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda touches down here next Tuesday for annual summit with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
India, Pakistan to discuss conventional, nuke CBMs
New Delhi/Islamabad, December 23: Seeking to push forward their revived peace process, India and Pakistan will hold two-day talks starting Monday in Islamabad to discuss conventional and nuclear confidence-building measures.
Cabinet approves 4.5 percent minority quota
New Delhi, December 23: The cabinet on Thursday approved 4.5 percent quota for minorities within the larger 27 percent quota for the Other backward Classes (OBC) in central government jobs and educational institutions, informed sources said.
Indians top founders of US venture-funded firms
Washington, December 23: Immigrants, with the largest number coming from India, have started nearly half of America's top 50 venture-funded companies in the US creating about 150 jobs each, according to a new report.
Spider-Man creator to make new superhero for India!
Washington, December 23: Stan Lee, co-creator of some of the world's leading superhero characters like Spider-Man, X-Men, Fantastic Four, Iron Man, Daredevil, Hulk and Thor will be launching an original superhero for the Indian market.
Food Security Bill tabled in Parliament
New Delhi, December 22: The government on Thursday tabled in the Lok Sabha a landmark bill that seeks to provide cheaper foodgrain to over half of India's 1.2 billion population and ensure that people 'live a life with dignity'.
India's concerns on equity recognised in Durban: Natarajan
New Delhi, December 22: Environment Minister Jayanthi Natarajan on Wednesday said India's concerns on equity had been recognised at the Durban climate conference and the next few years will be a period of intensive negotiations on the future arrangements.
Indian origin scientist develops energy-producing 'solar paint'
Bangalore, December 22: New research led by an Indian origin professor in the US heralds the day when one can apply a coat of paint on the outside walls of a house to generate electricity from sunlight that can be used to power the appliances and equipment on the inside.
Rajya Sabha clears Research Academy Bill
New Delhi, December 22: The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed a bill that will pave the way for setting up an academy for innovative research in the field of science and technology.
Nuclear scientist P.K. Iyengar dead
Mumbai, December 22: Eminent nuclear scientist P.K. Iyengar, former chairman of Atomic Energy Commission and a key member of the team which made possible India's first peaceful nuclear explosion in 1974, passed away after a brief illness on Wednesday here, an official source said. He was 80.
Presenting, 'master' Picasso with 'fan' Souza
A western master of modern art and his illustrious Indian admirer, who virtually followed in his master's footsteps, have come together to connect with fans in India in a unique East-meets-West art showcase, 'Souza-Picasso'.
Food Security Bill tabled in Parliament
New Delhi, December 22: The government on Thursday tabled in the Lok Sabha a landmark bill that seeks to provide cheaper foodgrain to over half of India's 1.2 billion population and ensure that people 'live a life with dignity'.
India's concerns on equity recognised in Durban: Natarajan
New Delhi, December 22: Environment Minister Jayanthi Natarajan on Wednesday said India's concerns on equity had been recognised at the Durban climate conference and the next few years will be a period of intensive negotiations on the future arrangements.
Indian origin scientist develops energy-producing 'solar paint'
Bangalore, December 22: New research led by an Indian origin professor in the US heralds the day when one can apply a coat of paint on the outside walls of a house to generate electricity from sunlight that can be used to power the appliances and equipment on the inside.
Rajya Sabha clears Research Academy Bill
New Delhi, December 22: The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed a bill that will pave the way for setting up an academy for innovative research in the field of science and technology.
Nuclear scientist P.K. Iyengar dead
Mumbai, December 22: Eminent nuclear scientist P.K. Iyengar, former chairman of Atomic Energy Commission and a key member of the team which made possible India's first peaceful nuclear explosion in 1974, passed away after a brief illness on Wednesday here, an official source said. He was 80.
Presenting, 'master' Picasso with 'fan' Souza
A western master of modern art and his illustrious Indian admirer, who virtually followed in his master's footsteps, have come together to connect with fans in India in a unique East-meets-West art showcase, 'Souza-Picasso'.
Food Security Bill tabled in Parliament
New Delhi, December 22: The government on Thursday tabled in the Lok Sabha a landmark bill that seeks to provide cheaper foodgrain to over half of India's 1.2 billion population and ensure that people 'live a life with dignity'.
India's concerns on equity recognised in Durban: Natarajan
New Delhi, December 22: Environment Minister Jayanthi Natarajan on Wednesday said India's concerns on equity had been recognised at the Durban climate conference and the next few years will be a period of intensive negotiations on the future arrangements.
Indian origin scientist develops energy-producing 'solar paint'
Bangalore, December 22: New research led by an Indian origin professor in the US heralds the day when one can apply a coat of paint on the outside walls of a house to generate electricity from sunlight that can be used to power the appliances and equipment on the inside.
Rajya Sabha clears Research Academy Bill
New Delhi, December 22: The Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed a bill that will pave the way for setting up an academy for innovative research in the field of science and technology.
Nuclear scientist P.K. Iyengar dead
Mumbai, December 22: Eminent nuclear scientist P.K. Iyengar, former chairman of Atomic Energy Commission and a key member of the team which made possible India's first peaceful nuclear explosion in 1974, passed away after a brief illness on Wednesday here, an official source said. He was 80.
Presenting, 'master' Picasso with 'fan' Souza
A western master of modern art and his illustrious Indian admirer, who virtually followed in his master's footsteps, have come together to connect with fans in India in a unique East-meets-West art showcase, 'Souza-Picasso'.
Cabinet clears Lokpal bill
New Delhi, December 21: The union cabinet on Tuesday approved the much-awaited Lokpal bill after a two-hour special meeting, official sources said.
10 Indians among Forbes' 'tomorrow's brightest stars'
Washington, December 21: Ten Indians rub shoulders with the likes of Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, human rights activist Ronan Farrow and pop stars Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber in a Forbes list of 'tomorrow's brightest stars'.
Bhutan PM speaks on Gross National Happiness
New Delhi, December 21: Bhutan's Prime Minister Jigmi Y. Thinley on Tuesday said that happiness is the purpose and ultimate desire of every human being and for real sustainable growth, the needs of body and mind have to be attended to equally.
US to help set up 30 business hubs in eastern India
New Delhi, December 21: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), will set up 30 rural business hubs in eastern India.
'Clean India' campaign to boost tourism
New Delhi, December 21: The Tourism Ministry here on Tuesday launched 'Clean India' campaign, after a survey conducted in some selected tourist destinations by the ministry revealed hygiene and sanitation conditions were repelling tourists -- both foreign and domestic.
US-Japan-India hold trilateral meet
Washington, December 20: India, US and Japan held their first trilateral meeting here, with Washington and Tokyo affirming a deepening of strategic ties with India and making it clear the dialogue was not directed against China.
Abhinav Bindra recommended for Bharat Ratna
New Delhi, December 20: India's only individual Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra was recommended for the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award, by the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) on Monday.
Indian artist's new animated web series launched in US
Washington, December 20: A digital entertainment company founded by three Indian Americans is launching a new animated web series by noted filmmaker John Woo created with writer Garth Ennis and Indian artist Jeevan J. Kang.
Kolkata literary fest to honour Tagore
Kolkata, December 20: The Apeejay Kolkata Literary Festival 2012 will celebrate the 150th and centenary birth anniversaries of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore and Urdu poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz, respectively, a festival official said on Monday.
Japan helping India clean Yamuna: Natarajan
New Delhi, December 20: India is getting assistance from Japan for a programme to cleanse the Yamuna river, Environment Minister Jayanthi Natarajan said on Monday.
Cabinet clears pathbreaking food bill
New Delhi, December 19: The union cabinet on Sunday approved the draft of the path-breaking National Food Security Bill which seeks to provide subsidised foodgrains to over half of India's 1.2 billion population.
Ajit Singh takes charge of civil aviation
New Delhi, December 19: A day after being inducted into the union cabinet, Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) chief Ajit Singh Monday took charge of the civil aviation ministry, which he described as a 'sensitive' sector.
US firms back 'Support My School' campaign in India
Washington, December 19: Several American companies and organizations have expressed interest in a unique initiative to help children in rural and semi-urban India get access to better educational facilities.
Manmohan Singh, Medvedev hold their last summit
Moscow, December 19: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's visit to Moscow for the 12th India-Russia summit with President Dmitry Medvedev was the fourth such interaction that the two leaders have had in as many years. But it was the last summit meeting between them.
Five African countries' handicrafts coming to Dilli Haat
New Delhi, December 19: Eighteen African craftswomen from five African countries will participate in Dastkari Haat Samiti's annual crafts bazaar, starting at Dilli Haat from January 1. They are expected to bring the best of their handicrafts.
India, Russia sign five bilateral agreements
Moscow, December 17: India and Russia on Friday signed five major agreements, including one on licensed production of an additional 42 Sukhoi combat planes and another on managing fly ash residue at thermal plants in Siberia.
Russia backs India's permanent membership of UNSC
Moscow, December 17: Russia on Friday reaffirmed its support for a permanent seat for India in an expanded United Nation Security Council (UNSC) with President Dmitry Medvedev terming it 'a strong candidate' for a place on the international body's high table.
Obama names Nancy Powell as envoy to India
Washington, December 17: Nancy Powell, a career diplomat who has served as ambassador to Pakistan and Nepal, has been named by US President Barack Obama as the next ambassador to India and fill a half-year vacancy.
Indian, Bangladeshi war heroes celebrate victory day
Kolkata, December 17: The launch of a 'Race to Dhaka' and a pictorial book depicting the 1971 Bangladesh liberation war marked the 40th anniversary of 'Vijay Divas' as war veterans from both countries came together at the Indian Army's Eastern Command headquarters here.
Force India retain di Resta for 2012, drop Sutil
London, December 17: The speculation on Sahara Force India's drivers for the 2012 season ended Friday when the team decided to retain Britain's Paul di Resta and promoted German Nico Hulkerberg to be the other permanent driver from being a reserve in 2011. Another German Adrian Sutil was dropped from the line-up.
PM begins summit talks with Russian president
Moscow, December 16: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday began a bilateral summit meeting with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev at the Kremlin here, seeking to renew the two nations' joint commitment to work towards giving a new thrust, meaning and content to their partnership.
US to intensify exports to India
Washington, December 16: The United States plans to intensify focus on India, China, Brazil and other priority markets where its exports have the best potential for continued growth.
Russian-built, BrahMos-fitted frigate set for Indian Navy induction
Moscow, December 16: Equipped with BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, INS Teg, a Russian-built frigate for the Indian Navy, will set sail once its Indian crew arrives and takes over the warship from the Russian Navy, well-informed sources said here on Friday.
Buenos Aires golf event showcases India's culture
Buenos Aires, December 16: The fourth edition of the Copa de la India Golf Tournament concluded here, not just showcasing high-quality golf but Indian culture as well.
Himachal to promote green industry
Shimla, December 16: Himachal Pradesh on Thursday amended its industrial policy to promote pollution-free industrial units in the state, an official statement said here.
Energy, economy high on PM's agenda in Russia
New Delhi, December 15: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Thursday said India would seek to substantially expand bilateral trade with Russia from the current $8.5 billion, while enhancing ties in a host of areas such as defence, energy, space technology and health.
US website to identify credible Indian NGOs
Washington, December 15: The US State Department is partnering with an Indian non-profit to create an online searchable database of credible Indian NGOs to work with potential American donors to build public-private partnerships.
Show of might at President's naval fleet review
New Delhi, December 15: In a show of grandeur and might, India will hold a naval fleet review for the supreme commander of its armed forces, President Pratibha Patil, on December 20 off Mumbai when she will sail past an 80-ship flotilla, an officer said on Wednesday.
35 new tourist circuits to be developed under 12th Plan
New Delhi, December 15: The tourism ministry has decided to develop 35 tourism circuits by 2016 under the 12th Five Year Plan on a public-private partnership basis, a statement issued by the ministry said.
India to help Ethiopia boost agricultural output
Addis Ababa, December 15: A premier Indian agricultural research institute has tied up with an Ethiopian institute to help it increase the country's agricultural output.
Bhutan PM to educate India about Gross National Happiness
New Delhi, December 14: After successfully implementing Gross National Happiness - an alternative development indicator - in his country, Bhutanese Prime Minister Lyonchhen Jigme Y. Thinley will be speaking on the concept in India.
PM to leave for Russia for bilateral summit
New Delhi, December 14: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will leave for Russia on Thursday for a three-day visit to hold a summit with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, apart from meeting Prime Minister Vladimir Putin.
Cabinet approves National Electricity Fund
New Delhi, December 14: The cabinet on Tuesday approved the creation of a National Electricity Fund (NEF) to provide interest subsidy of Rs.8,466 crore for electricity distribution projects for a period of 14 years.
Bal Bharti student wins UN slogan writing competition
New Delhi, December 14: Aashna Mahendru, a student of class seven of Bal Bharti Public School, on Tuesday won the inter-school online slogan-writing competition which was organised by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) here.
India main market for Russian satellite navigation
Moscow, December 14: India and Latin America are the priority markets for Russia's Glonass satellite navigation system, similar to the US' Global Positioning System, a top Russian official said on Tuesday.
India, US iron out N-liability issue, discuss Af-Pak
New Delhi, December 13: The US on Monday underlined that it shared India's commitment to 'full implementation' of the civil nuclear agreement as both countries discussed ways to resolve differences on the nuclear liability law and also discussed the volatile situation in the Afghanistan-Pakistan region.
India to boost democratic practices in Myanmar
New Delhi, December 13: A parliamentary delegation from Myanmar on Monday called on Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar, who assured the Southeast Asian country of India's support in evolving its own parliamentary procedures and norms.
India to screen entire population for cancer, heart ailment
New Delhi, December 13: India will be the only country in the world to screen its entire 125 crore population for prevention of cancer and some other non-communicable diseases in the next five years, Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad told the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday.
PM mulls Rs.1,000 crore corpus for housing poor
New Delhi, December 13: The government is considering creating a corpus fund of Rs.1,000 crore ($18.7 million) in the current fiscal that would encourage banks to give housing loans in 'significant volumes' to the urban poor, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said on Tuesday.
India, Switzerland to cooperate in local governance
New Delhi, December 13: India and Switzerland signed an agreement on Monday to increase their cooperation for strengthening local governance.
India gets its way as climate summit ends
Durban, December 12: An impassioned speech by Environment Minister Jayanthi Natarajan capped the finale of the UN climate summit that ended here early Sunday with a Durban Package, after she warned that India 'will never be intimidated by any threat or pressure'.
India beat West Indies to wrap up 4-1 series win
Chennai, December 12: A maiden international century by Manoj Tewary powered India to a 34-run win against the West Indies in the fifth and concluding game as the hosts wrapped up the One-day series 4-1 here on Sunday.
India beat Afghanistan to retain SAFF Cup
New Delhi, December 12: India dominated the last 20 minutes of the SAFF Cup football final against a 10-man Afghanistan at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on Sunday, thrashing them 4-0 for their sixth title.
India's forex reserves rise by $2.48 bn
Mumbai, December 12: India's foreign exchange reserves climbed by $2.48 billion to $306.84 billion for the week ended December 2, rising for the first time in five weeks due to an increase in the value of foreign currency assets and gold reserves, official data showed.
Indian fertiliser makers looking to buy mines in Africa
New Delhi, December 12: Faced with increasing demand and rising cost of importing raw material, the Indian fertiliser industry is eying mineral assets in Africa.
India fights for right of development of 1.2 bn people
Durban, Dec 10: Environment Minister Jayanthi Natarajan made an emotional appeal to the rich countries, asking for space for basic development for its 1.2 billion people and eradication of poverty.
Obama names Preeta Bansal to key post
Washington, Dec 10: President Barack Obama has named yet another Indian-American, Preeta D. Bansal, as a member of an independent agency promoting improvements in the efficiency, adequacy, and fairness of government procedures
US sharing PNR data with India
Washington, Dec 10: The US is negotiating new agreements with six top countries,including India, on information sharing about passenger travel, known colloquially as PNR, passenger name records, a senior official of the Obama administration said.
US investors keen to fund India's digital transformation
Washington, Dec 10: US investors are keen to help fund India's digital transformation, according to the US-India Business Council (USIBC), a major US trade advocacy group seeking better commercial ties with India.
Windies have everything to gain against India
Chennai, Dec 10: With weather Gods showering benevolence instead of rains as the region is in the midst of north-east monsoon, the least one can say about Sunday's fifth and concluding ODI game between Indian and the West Indies here at Chepauk is that a full match is very much a possibility.
PM greets Sonia Gandhi on 65th birthday
New Delhi, December 9: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday greeted Congress president Sonia Gandhi on her 65th birthday, an official said.
Infosys shifts focus on developing economies
Kolkata, Dec 9: IT giant Infosys is shifting its priorities to increase its revenues from the domestic market, as also other developing economies like China, Malaysia and South Africa on the back of slowdown in the US and Europe, a top executive of the company said Friday.
US investors keen to fund India's digital transformation
Washington, Dec 9: US investors are keen to help fund India's digital transformation, according to the US-India Business Council (USIBC), a major US trade advocacy group seeking better commercial ties with India.
Virender Sehwag crushes West Indies, India take 3-1 lead
Indore, December 9: India defeated the West Indies by 153 runs in the fourth One-Day International and took an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series.
India wants only bilateral defence ties with Australia
New Delhi, December 8: India on Wednesday welcomed Australian Defence Minister Stephen Smith but strongly communicated to him that it is looking only at bilateral relations and engagement at multinational fora such as the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus.
India, Russia to focus on N-energy, defence during summit
New Delhi, December 8: India and Russia will focus on expanding nuclear energy cooperation and building on their long-standing military ties during the three-day visit of Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to Moscow beginning December 15 for a bilateral summit, when over half-a-dozen pacts are expected to be signed.
Obama names another Indian-American to key post
Washington, December 8: US President Barack Obama has named Indian-American, Preeta D. Bansal, as a member of an independent agency promoting improvements in the efficiency, adequacy, and fairness of government procedures.
Rolls-Royce returns to the city of Nizams
Hyderabad, December 8: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars on Wednesday appointed its dealer for Hyderabad, marking its return to this historic city where the Nizam had once owned a fleet of over 50 super luxury cars.
FTA will bolster India-Israel trade: Envoy
New Delhi, December 8: Bilateral trade between India and Israel is likely to grow to $15 billion from the present $5 billion if the two sides agree to sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Israeli Ambassador to India Alon Ushpiz said here on Wednesday.
Telecom industry's concerns will be addressed: PM
New Delhi, December 7: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday assured all stakeholders in the telecom industry that his government will address their concerns and support the growth of this crucial sector with forward-looking policies.
India to deepen engagement with Asia-Pacific region
Washington, December 7: Ahead of the first trilateral consultation between India, Japan and the US here, India has said it will continue to deepen its engagement with the Asia-Pacific region.
Naveen Jindal gets Justice Bhagwati Award
New Delhi, December 7: Former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam on Tuesday presented the Justice P.N. Bhagwati Award to O.P. Jindal Global University chancellor Naveen Jindal for his 'outstanding contribution' to legal education and corporate philanthropy.
Total lunar eclipse on December 10
Kolkata, December 7: Sky gazers are all set to witness a celestial event involving the Moon, the Earth and the Sun as the second total lunar eclipse of the year is scheduled to occur December 10, said an official of M.P. Birla Planetarium here on Tuesday.
Hindalco to invest $5 billion more, double aluminium capacity
Hyderabad, December 7: Hindalco Industries Limited, the metals flagship company of the Aditya Birla Group, is looking to more than double its aluminium production capacity by 2016 with an investment of $5 billion.
Patil first Indian president to ride battle tank
Barmer (Rajasthan), December 6: Pratibha Patil on Monday became the first Indian president to ride in a battle tank when she boarded a T-90 in the desert terrain of Rajasthan to witness an army war game underway here.
India, US, Japan to hold trilateral meet in Washington
Washington, December 6: The United States, India and Japan will hold their first trilateral meeting here on December 19 to discuss 'a range of Asia Pacific regional issues' among three leading 'Pacific democracies.'
India to host ministers of Mekong-Ganga countries
New Delhi, December 6: In a boost to its Look East policy, India will host the meeting of Mekong-Ganga Cooperation grouping that will bring together foreign ministers of Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia here later this month to explore ways to boost economic and cultural linkages in the region.
India's oil refining capacity to rise to 238 mn tonnes
New Delhi, December 6: India will raise its petroleum refining capacity by over 22 percent from the current 194 million tonnes to 238 million tonnes by 2013, Minister of State for Petroleum R.P.N. Singh said on Monday.
Dev Anand is forever, says Pakistani daily
Islamabad, December 6: Dev Anand who left Lahore in 1943 at the age of 19 with just Rs.30 in his pocket and went on to become an iconic actor-director would have scoffed at all the 'end of an era' cliches in his obituaries, said a Pakistani daily.
President, vice president, PM condole Dev Anand's death
New Delhi, Dec 5: President Pratibha Patil, Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and several other political leaders condoled the demise of veteran actor Dev Anand, saying the Indian film industry had lost one of its most endearing heroes who personified the spirit of graceful ageing with dignity.
Facelift for two Mirage 2000 jets in French Riviera
New Delhi, Dec 5: The first set of two Mirage 2000 combat jets of the Indian Air Force (IAF) have flown out for upgrade at the facilities of Thales, the French defence and aerospace giant, as part of a $1.35 billion deal for the 51-aircraft fleet.
Uranium sale: India welcomes Oz Labor Party move
New Delhi, Dec 5: India Sunday welcomed the move of Australia's ruling Labor Party to remove a ban on uranium exports to this country, saying that bilateral cooperation in the energy sector is one of the important facets of multifaceted bilateral ties.
Louvre museum looks for cooperation with India
The Louvre Museum in Paris, considered one of best and the biggest art repositories in the world, is looking to establish long-term partnerships with Indian art and culture.
US Sikh group leads call for probing racial profiling
Washington, Dec 5: Amid charges of racial profiling by a group of 38 civil rights organizations led by the Sikh Coalition, the US Transportation Security Administration is investigating allegations that Mexican travellers were being targeted for extra screening.
US sees 'great opportunity' in boosting India ties
Washington, December 3: Acknowledging the broad bipartisan support enjoyed by India-US relations on Capitol Hill, key US lawmakers and officials alike have vowed to seize the 'moment of great opportunity.'
Thai PM to be chief guest on Republic Day
New Delhi, December 3: Building on the upward swing in New Delhi's Look East policy, India will host Thailand's first woman and youngest Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra as the guest of honour at the Republic Day parade on January 26, 2012.
'Brand new Indian Navy with long legs by 2027'
New Delhi, December 3: India will have 'a brand new' navy with 'long legs' at sea, with force levels of 150-odd warships and 500-odd air fleet, navy chief Admiral Nirmal Verma said on Friday.
A Festival of India set to charm Argentina
Buenos Aires, December 3: Argentine dancers performing Bharatanatyam and Odissi, recital of Rabindranath Tagore´s poems by an Argentine scholar, Indian food, films and a yoga show that will see the participation of 15,000 people will be some of the highlights of the fourth Festival of India to be held here.
India beat West Indies by five wickets
Visakhapatnam, December 3: Virat Kohli smashed a century and together with troubleshooter Rohit Sharma put up 163 runs for the fourth wicket as India overcame a resilent West Indies by five wickets in the second ODI here on Friday.
UID to facilitate healthcare services: Nilekani
New Delhi, December 2: Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) chairman Nandan Nilekani on Thursday said 'Aadhar', the unique identification number, would help people obtain a birth certificate easily and facilitate healthcare facilities.
UN reforms: Indian envoy turns to Facebook
United Nations, December 2: India's Permanent UN Representative Hardeep Singh Puri turned to Facebook terminology to point to the danger of the critical issue of UN General Assembly revitalisation becoming an 'event' with a ritual annual update.
Delhi to provide Rs.1,000 each to HIV-positive patients
New Delhi, December 2: The Delhi government on Thursday decided to provide financial assistance of Rs.1,000 per month to all HIV-positive people in the capital.
Wildlife conservationists honoured
New Delhi, December 2: Scientists, researchers and photographers working in the field of wildlife conservation to defend the wildernesses and the food and water security of the Indian subcontinent were honoured here on Thursday.
Ranbaxy approved to make first generic version of Lipitor
Washington, December 2: India's largest maker of generic drugs, Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd has won US approval to sell a generic version of the world's top-selling cholesterol lowering drug Lipitor hours after it lost US patent protection.
AIDS control: India undeterred by donors' global pullout
New Delhi, Dec 1: The battle against the deadly HIV-AIDS will not weaken even as some of the major global funding bodies aim to pull out of India's fourth phase of National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) 2012-2017.
India wins election to UN panel on racial discrimination
United Nations, Dec 1: India's nominee Dilip Lahiri has been re-elected to serve on the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) for a three year term, beginning January 20, 2012.
South Africa remembers Indians with postage stamps
Pretoria, Dec 1: South Africa has launched a series of postage stamps commemorating the arrival of Indian labourers to the country 150 years ago, state-run news agency BuaNews reported.
India tops again, gets $58 bn remittance in 2011
New Delhi, Dec 1: Maintaining its leading position, India is estimated to get $58 billion remittance from its diaspora in 2011, followed closely by China at $57 billion, World Bank data showed on Thursday.
Health care spending to go up in 12th Plan: Montek
New Delhi, Dec 1: Expressing concern over the quality of health care in India, Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia said on Thursday the government will increase spending on the sector from 1.3 percent to 2.5 percent of GDP during the 12th Five Year Plan (2012-13 to 2016-17) period.
Future of India, US tied together: Maryland Governor
Hyderabad, Nov 30 Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley feels that the India-US relations would be a defining relationship of 'our times' and that the future of the two countries is tied together.
Indian cytotron inventor plans to enter US market
Hyderabad, Nov 30 After inventing Cytotron to treat cancers, osteoarthritis and multiple sclerosis, Scalene Cybernetics Ltd is now taking this novel device to the US.
IIT Bombay grad gets top US energy job
Washington, Nov 30 Naming yet another Indian American to a key administration post, President Barack Obama has appointed Arun Majumdar, an Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, alumnus as the top bureaucrat in the Department of Energy.
NRI body opposes move to tax long stay in India
Washington, Nov 30 The largest umbrella organization of overseas Indians has urged the Indian government to withdraw a proposal to impose tax on non-resident Indians staying over 60 days during a visit to the homeland.
India looks at opening new waterways with Bangladesh
Agartala, Nov 30 India will soon conduct a survey for new waterways with Bangladesh, a move that would facilitate the movement of goods between the two countries.
Future of India, US tied together: Maryland Governor
Hyderabad, Nov 30 Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley feels that the India-US relations would be a defining relationship of 'our times' and that the future of the two countries is tied together.
Indian cytotron inventor plans to enter US market
Hyderabad, Nov 30 After inventing Cytotron to treat cancers, osteoarthritis and multiple sclerosis, Scalene Cybernetics Ltd is now taking this novel device to the US.
IIT Bombay grad gets top US energy job
Washington, Nov 30 Naming yet another Indian American to a key administration post, President Barack Obama has appointed Arun Majumdar, an Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay, alumnus as the top bureaucrat in the Department of Energy.
NRI body opposes move to tax long stay in India
Washington, Nov 30 The largest umbrella organization of overseas Indians has urged the Indian government to withdraw a proposal to impose tax on non-resident Indians staying over 60 days during a visit to the homeland.
India looks at opening new waterways with Bangladesh
Agartala, Nov 30 India will soon conduct a survey for new waterways with Bangladesh, a move that would facilitate the movement of goods between the two countries.
Indira Goswami: writer, peace broker and teacher
Guwahati, Nov 29: A noted Assamese writer, a peace broker between the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) and New Delhi, and a teacher -- Indira Goswami played many a varied role in a lifetime.
Guyana-born NRI elected chief of diaspora body
Washington, Nov 29: Guyana-born US resident Ashook Ramsaran has been elected the international president of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), the largest umbrella organization of overseas Indians.
India-China defence dialogue next month: Krishna
New Delhi, Nov 29: Days after the postponement of the India-China boundary talks, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna said on Tuesday that the high-level defence dialogue with Beijing that is 'in the pipeline' will be held next month.
India presses for urgent UNSC reform, expansion
United Nations, Nov 29: Reiterating that reform and expansion of the UN Security Council are essential to reflect contemporary reality, India has called for pursuing early reform with renewed vigour and have it urgently enacted.
Indira Goswami: writer, peace broker and teacher
Guwahati, Nov 29: A noted Assamese writer, a peace broker between the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) and New Delhi, and a teacher -- Indira Goswami played many a varied role in a lifetime.
Guyana-born NRI elected chief of diaspora body
Washington, Nov 29: Guyana-born US resident Ashook Ramsaran has been elected the international president of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), the largest umbrella organization of overseas Indians.
India-China defence dialogue next month: Krishna
New Delhi, Nov 29: Days after the postponement of the India-China boundary talks, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna said on Tuesday that the high-level defence dialogue with Beijing that is 'in the pipeline' will be held next month.
India presses for urgent UNSC reform, expansion
United Nations, Nov 29: Reiterating that reform and expansion of the UN Security Council are essential to reflect contemporary reality, India has called for pursuing early reform with renewed vigour and have it urgently enacted.
Indira Goswami: writer, peace broker and teacher
Guwahati, Nov 29: A noted Assamese writer, a peace broker between the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) and New Delhi, and a teacher -- Indira Goswami played many a varied role in a lifetime.
Guyana-born NRI elected chief of diaspora body
Washington, Nov 29: Guyana-born US resident Ashook Ramsaran has been elected the international president of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), the largest umbrella organization of overseas Indians.
India-China defence dialogue next month: Krishna
New Delhi, Nov 29: Days after the postponement of the India-China boundary talks, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna said on Tuesday that the high-level defence dialogue with Beijing that is 'in the pipeline' will be held next month.
India presses for urgent UNSC reform, expansion
United Nations, Nov 29: Reiterating that reform and expansion of the UN Security Council are essential to reflect contemporary reality, India has called for pursuing early reform with renewed vigour and have it urgently enacted.
Oz director wants cricket film on India, Pak, Australia
Panaji, Nov 28 The world has suffered from fewer films being made on cricket, Australian film great Phil Noyce says, adding that he's keen to make an India-Pakistan-Australia co-produced cricket film, if the money permits.
India's 'bold' retail opening will reduce prices: US body
<Washington, Nov 27 A major US trade association has hailed Indian cabinet's 'bold' move to approve opening of India's vast multi-brand retail sector to foreign direct investment and expanding FDI into single-brand retail, saying it tamp down rising food prices and inflation.
More global firms eye Indian construction market
Bangalore, Nov 28 More and more global firms are keen to enter the fledgling Indian earthmoving and construction equipment (ECE) market through subsidiaries or joint ventures to cash in on the opportunities in the booming infrastructure sector, industry experts said.
Three years after 26/11, India, Pak talk of new chapter
New Delhi, Nov 27 Three years after Pakistani terrorists unleashed mayhem in Mumbai, India and Pakistan are cautiously inching ahead to write 'a new chapter' in their accident-prone relationship. Many, however, remain dismissive of the latest peace moves, saying largely that 'Pakistan will not change its colours'.
Mumbai Test ends in draw, India win series 2-0
Mumbai, Nov 27 The third cricket Test between India and the West Indies ended in a dramatic draw on the fifth day at the Wankhede Stadium here on Saturday.
India, UAE sign pacts on security cooperation
New Delhi, November 24 India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) enhanced their security cooperation by signing two agreements on Wednesday, including one on combating terrorism and organised crimes.
India to raise $1.9 bn debt for building highways
Bangalore, November 24 India will soon raise Rs.10,000 crore ($1.9 billion) through a public debt issue for funding its ambitious national highways project, union Road Transport and Highways Minister C.P. Joshi said on Wednesday.
Committed to Africa's transformation: India
New Delhi, November 24 Months after its second summit with Africa, India on Thursday underlined its initiatives to help in the socio-cultural transformation of African countries and called for jointly combating global challenges like terrorism, piracy and climate change.
India beats China in UN election
United Nations, November 24 In a keenly watched election in the United Nations General Assembly, India has squarely beaten China to win a seat on the Joint Inspection Unit, the UN's oversight body, for a five-year term starting on January 1, 2013.
Bangladeshi envoy to visit India over dam project issue
Dhaka, November 24 Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said on Wednesday that a special envoy would be sent to India soon to discuss the Tipaimukh Dam to be built on the Barak river, that flows down into Bangladesh, in India's Manipur state.
India plans 10 new nuclear projects by 2017
New Delhi, November 24 Ten new nuclear power projects are planned during the 12th Five Year Plan (2012-17) period, the Lok Sabha was informed on Wednesday.
Indian triumphs in India-Pakistan wrestling tourney
Islamabad, November 24 India emerged victorious in a three-phase tournament that saw burly Pakistani and Indian wrestlers pitted against each other.
Stable China border will help growth: India
New Delhi, November 22 Readying to set up a mechanism to settle the border dispute with China, India on Monday said it needed a stable arrangement on the issue that will help the two countries work together in areas of mutual interest in the global arena.
Wipro wins American award for eighth time
Bangalore, November 22 India's third largest IT bellwether Wipro won the American Society for Training and Development 'Best' award for the eighth consecutive year, the company said on Monday.
Delhi to construct Rs. 3,100 crore industrial hub
New Delhi, November 22 The Delhi government will set up a Rs.3,100 crore multi-level manufacturing hub to encourage non-polluting small and medium industries in the capital, Delhi Industries Minister Ramakant Goswami said on Monday.
Uninor on top as India's GSM base grows 1.15 pc
New Delhi, November 22 India's GSM mobile subscribers base grew 1.15 percent in October with an addition of over 7.12 million subscribers. The share new telecom operator Uninor alone was 2.67 million subscribers.
Singapore opened new horizons for India: PM
Singapore, November 21 Singapore had opened new horizons for India, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said here on Sunday and recalled that it was New Delhi's engagement with Singapore that led to a strategic shift and evolved into the 'Look East' policy.
Singapore honours Nehru as 'friend, visionary'
Singapore, November 21 Sixty-one years after Jawaharlal Nehru last visited this island state, Singapore commemorated for posterity India's first prime minister as a 'friend to our shores' and a 'visionary'.
Kabaddi World Cup: India win men, women titles
Ludhiana, November 21 Hosts India lifted the winners title in the men's and women's section of the second World Cup Kabaddi tournament here.
India may use US aircraft for weather forecast
New Delhi, November 21 If all goes well then India's monsoon forecast and cyclone prediction are likely to become more accurate in coming years with a hi-tech aircraft from the US being used for weather reconnaissance missions.
India to host meet against drug trafficking
New Delhi, November 21 Over 100 experts and officials from the Asia-Pacific region will gather in India Nov 22-25 to devise coordinated efforts to combat illicit drug production and trafficking effectively, an official statement said on Sunday.
Largest project to ease electricity woes in North-East
Agartala, November 21 The electricity crisis in northeastern India is set to ease when the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation's (ONGC) first mega power project -- the largest in the region -- starts generating power by April next year.
Greater urgency for India-ASEAN partnership: PM
Nusa Dua (Bali), November 19 Giving a renewed thrust to India's Look East policy, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday pushed for greater integration with the 10-nation ASEAN through economic partnerships, greater physical connectivity and cooperation in a range of other fields such as science and technology and space.
PM and Gillard meet, discuss sale of uranium
Nusa Dua (Bali), November 19 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his Australian counterpart Julia Gillard met here for a brief interaction to take forward discussions on selling uranium to India and also to review their strategic partnership.
India to rebuild rail link in Sri Lanka
New Delhi, November 18 The Indian Railways has signed a $149 million agreement for reconstruction of a 56-km railway line between Pallai and Kankesanthurai in northern Sri Lanka and said it hopes to complete the project in two years.
Reliance, BP form joint venture for gas business
Mumbai, November 18 Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries (RIL) and global energy major BP have incorporated their joint venture (JV) company -- India Gas Solutions --which will focus on sourcing and marketing of natural gas in the country.
Indian software firm awarded for innovative product
New Delhi, November 18 An Indian information technology (IT) firm RMSI has been given the 'Technology Initiative of the Year' award by the Asian insurance industry for providing a unique software for risk assessment.
India, China can grow together: Manmohan, Wen
Bali, November 18 There was enough space for both India and China to flourish, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said here on Friday in their opening remarks at talks being held on the sidelines of the ASEAN and East Asia Summits.
PM meets Obama, says N-liability within framework of law
Nusa Dua (Bali), November 18 Declaring that there were 'no irritants whatsoever' in their relationship, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh met US President Barack Obama here on Friday but clarified that specific grievances on the civil nuclear liability law could only be addressed within 'four corners of the law of the land'.
India's Singh re-elected to UN's International Law Commission
United Nations, November 18 The UN General Assembly has re-elected Narinder Singh of India as a member of the International Law Commission (ILC) for a five-year term beginning January 1, 2012.
Indian Americans grow to 3.2 mn, top in income
Washington, November 17 Some 3.2 million Indian Americans, including Asian Indians of mixed race, lived in the United States in 2010 as South Asians led all Asian groups in population growth in the last decade. They led all Asian American households with highest media household income.
US, India sign aviation safety pact
New Delhi, November 17 The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Thursday announced the completion of a pact between the US and India that will allow for the reciprocal certification of aviation products.
Global award for Buddh International Circuit
New Delhi, November 17 The Buddh International Circuit (BIC), which hosted India's maiden Formula One Grand Prix last month, has been awarded the 'Motorsport Facility of the Year' award at the Professional Motorsport World Expo 2011, held in Cologne, Germany.
India thrash West Indies at Eden, lead series 2-0
Kolkata, November 17 Darren Bravo's valiant century went in vain, as India fashioned a thumping innings and 15 runs win over the West Indies to wrap up the second cricket Test on the fourth day and took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three match series here on Thursday.
India, China to revive joint army exercise in 2012
New Delhi, November 14 With India and China resuming their bilateral military exchanges four months ago, the two nations are planning to revive their joint military exercise in 2012.
Bopanna-Qureshi win Paris Masters
Paris, November 14 India's Rohan Bopanna and Pakistan's Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi captured their first ATP World Tour Masters 1000 title when they outclassed Julien Benneteau and Nicolas Mahut 6-2, 6-4 in the BNP Paribas Masters final here on Sunday.
Poland remembers noted Hindi poet Agyeya
Warsaw, November 14 Polish educationists have paid rich tributes to noted Hindi poet Sachchidananda Hirananda Vatsyayana, better known as 'Agyeya', saying he was a 'pioneer in modern Hindi literature in post-partition India' and he had 'refined the art of story telling'.
Tarsem Singh's 3D epic tops box office in N. America
Washington, November 14 Indian director Tarsem Singh's new 3D adventure epic 'Immortals', starring Henry Cavill, Freida Pinto and Mickey Rourke, has opened at number one at the North American box office with an estimated $15 million in ticket sales.
India to host meet against drugs trafficking
New Delhi, November 14 For the first time, India will host the 'Paris Pact Meeting' beginning on Monday that will focus on devising international cooperation against drugs trafficking.
Indian soldiers and 11.11.11.11 connection in Belgium
New Delhi, November 14 Every year, at 11.11 hours on November 11, an Indian Army team is in Ypres, Belgium, to observe the anniversary of the Armistice that ended World War I.
India will be at your side, PM tells Maldives
Male, November 12 In the first address by a foreign leader to the Maldivian parliament, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday offered India's support to the democratic transformation of the Indian Ocean and stressed on jointly combating terror and piracy in the region.
South Asia to accelerate trade liberalisation
Addu (Maldives), November 11 In this idyllic Indian Ocean atoll, leaders of eight South Asian nations on Friday decided to accelerate trade liberalisation, intensify anti-terror cooperation and unveiled key initiatives, including setting up a Rapid Action Force to combat natural disasters.
India signs umbrella pact with Maldives
Male (Maldives), November 12 India on Saturday inked an umbrella agreement with the Maldives to intensify cooperation in diverse areas, including trade and counter-terrorism, and unveiled a fresh $100 million line of credit for development of this picturesque atoll nation.
'Nobel Laureate Khorana revolutionised biotechnology'
Washington, November 12 Nobel Laureate Har Gobind Khorana, the Punjab-born Indian American scientist who died in the US, 'revolutionised biotechnology' and his work 'continues to propel new scientific discoveries', a professor at America's University of Wisconsin-Madison has said.
Tatas start $100-mn soda ash unit in Kenya
Nairobi, November 11 India's Tata Chemicals has opened a $100 million soda ash plant here that enhances the capacity of its Kenyan subsidiary and places this East African nation on the global map for the production of this multi-utility commodity.
India on World Heritage Committee for 4 years
New Delhi, November 11 India has been elected to the World Heritage Committee, getting the second highest number of votes after Japan in the election in Paris on November 7, Culture Minister Kumari Selja said on Friday. It will serve on the panel for four years.
Manmohan, Gilani want 'new chapter' in relations
Addu Atoll (Maldives), November 11 The prime ministers of India and Pakistan on Thursday hoped that the next round of bilateral talks would be more productive and agreed to write a new chapter in the history of the relations between the two countries.
Gilani invites Manmohan to Pakistan
Addu (Maldives), November 10 Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani on Thursday invited his Indian counterpart Manmohan Singh to visit his country and reinforced this with an emotional appeal, requesting him to visit his birthplace in an area which is now in that country.
India-US ties valuable for global consensus: Envoy
Washington, November 11 In a globalised world, closer partnership between India and the United States will be of great value for forging global consensus and cooperation, according to Indian ambassador Nirupama Rao.
India initiates major free trade move in SAARC
Addu (Maldives), November 10 In a major boost to its trade liberalisation effort, India Thursday brought down the sensitive list for least developed countries under the South Asian Free Trade Area Agreement (SAFTA) to 25 tariff lines from the existing 480 and said zero basic customs duty access will immediately be given to all the removed items.
Manmohan meets Bhattarai, pushes for tax pact
Addu (Maldives), November 11 Nearly three weeks after they met in New Delhi, India's Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his Nepali counterpart Baburam Bhattarai on Friday held bilateral talks here and pushed for early signing of a double tax avoidance agreement.
All can draw inspiration from Guru Nanak: Obama
Washington, November 11 Greeting Sikhs on the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, President Barack Obama has said 'all of us can draw inspiration from his message of equality, honesty, and helping those who are in need.'
Six Indian American Malayalees to be honoured
New York, November 11 The Indian American Kerala Cultural and Civic Centre will honour six Indian American Malayalees for their outstanding achievements in their field of specialisation or for their service to the society on Saturday.
PM leaves for SAARC Summit, to push for free trade
New Delhi, November 9 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh left on Wednesday for a four-day visit to attend the 17th SAARC Summit in the Maldives, where he will push for liberalisation of trade in the region and also meet his Pakistani counterpart Yousuf Raza Gilani.
Peruvian honour for Indian academic
New Delhi, November 8 Peru will confer one of its highest civilian honours - the Order of Merit for Distinguished Services - on noted scholar S.P. Ganguly for his contribution to strengthening cultural links between India and the Latin American nation.
Singapore defence chief in India to expand ties
New Delhi, November 8 Opportunities for expanding defence cooperation will be discussed during Singaporean defence forces chief Lt. Gen. Neo Kian Hong's three-day visit to India that began on Tuesday. He will meet Defence Minister A.K. Antony and the armed forces chiefs.
India seeks convergence on UNSC expansion
United Nations, November 9 India has called for continuation of the ongoing intergovernmental negotiations on the expansion of the UN Security Council in both the permanent and non-permanent categories and improvement of its working methods.
India win Kotla Test by five wickets
New Delhi, November 9 India won the first cricket Test against the West Indies by five wickets at the Ferozeshah Kotla here on Wednesday.
5.6 lakh tourists visited India in October
New Delhi, November 8 About 5.63 lakh tourists visited India in October, an 11 percent increase over the same period last year, an official said here on Tuesday.
Kochhar tops India's powerful businesswomen's list
New Delhi, November 8 ICICI Bank MD and CEO Chanda Kochhar tops Fortune India's 50 Most Powerful Women in Business list, which also includes Ekta Kapoor and Farah Khan from the world of showbiz.
SAARC officials firm up agenda for Summit
New Delhi, November 7 Foreign secretaries and senior officials of eight SAARC countries met on Monday at the Addu Atoll in the Maldives to firm up the agenda for the November 10-11 summit that is expected to result in pacts on setting up a regional seed bank and a rapid action force for natural disasters.
India likely to ink counter-terror pact with Maldives
New Delhi, November 7 India is set to seal an all embracing agreement and a counter-terror pact with the Maldives when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh meets President Mohammed Nasheed in Male on Friday.
Millions pay a tribute ahead of Hazarika's funeral
Guwahati, November 8 More than a million people have paid their last respects to one of the doyens of Indian music, Bhupen Hazarika, whose body has been kept at a public playground here. With fans pouring in, the government has postponed his funeral to November 9.
Indian man becomes 'farming king' in Argentina
Buenos Aires, November 7 An Indian-origin man in Argentina, who started a peanut farm a few years back, has now grown by leaps and bounds and become an 'uncrowned king' of rice, soya and corn plantations in South America.
Indian Americans form body to boost nanotechnology
Washington, November 8 Given the huge potential of nanotechnology, a group of Indian Americans professionals have launched The Indus Nanotech Association (TINA), which would connect entrepreneurs and businesspersons, researchers, technologists and investors.
US to aid $25 mn for clean energy R&amp;D in India
New Delhi, November 7 The United States will mobilize $25 million of Department of Energy funding for a joint clean energy research and development (R&D) center in India, Under Secretary for International Trade Francisco J. Sanchez said here on Monday.
Pak's MFN grant may signal changing mindset: PM
Cannes, November 7 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has welcomed Pakistan granting the 'Most Favoured Nation' status to India after a 17-year wait, but said it needs to be watched if this was an indication of a changed mindset.
Spirit of sacrifice reigns on Eid-ul-Zuha
New Delhi, November 7 Thousands of Muslims thronged the 17th century Jama Masjid and other mosques in the capital on Eid-ul-Zuha, celebrating the festival with special prayers and the spirit of sacrifice.
US lawmakers hail Indian diaspora's role in pushing ties
Washington, November 6 Two leading Republican lawmakers have expressed happiness over the growing momentum in India-US relations and the role of the Indian diaspora in building an important cultural bridge between the two countries.
India, Iran ties can help regional peace: Ahmadinejad
Tehran, November 6 Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has said that cooperation between India and Iran on regional issues can help peace and stability in the region, Mehr news agency has reported.
Dhoni becomes India's most successful wicketkeeper
New Delhi, November 6 Mahendra Singh Dhoni has surpassed Syed Kirmani to become India's most successful wicketkeeper in Tests.
Indian trio invent device to identify fake whisky
London, November 3 A team of three Indian researchers in Scotland have designed a laser test to identify fake whisky from genuine Scotch malt.
India's rise will reshape global system: US
Washington, November 5 Noting that 'India's rise will reshape the international system' a top US official has said that Washington seeks a 21st century Asia-Pacific in which India, the US and China all enjoy good relations.
Quick fix of Eurozone crisis must: PM
New Delhi, November 2 Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on November 2 called on G20 leaders to find a quick resolution to the Eurozone crisis and said this was also imperative for emerging and poor economies to meet their developmental challenges.
Indian innovation gets noticed in Qatar
Doha, November 2 Two unusual and innovative educational projects from India are among a list of '16 pioneers around the world' selected by a new book on the subject just released here.
Eighth-century university set for conservation
Patna, November 2 After lying neglected for years, the ruins of Vikramshila University, an ancient seat of Buddhist learning located in Bihar's Bhagalpur district, are set to be conserved, like its older contemporary, Nalanda University, so that current and future generations would get to know about the rich tradition of scholarship in the state.
'Indian rhythms, American jazz coming together'
New Delhi, November 2 Indian rhythm concepts are quickly becoming a part of the American jazz language, said a leading New York-based jazz ensemble, Paul Beaudry & Pathways.
Sensex in green as world stock markets tumble
Mumbai, November 2 A benchmark index for Indian equities markets on November 2 crept up into the green, moving up after a weak start even as major Asian bourses fell over Greece's announcement of a referendum on a bailout deal agreed with European Union leaders last week.
Medeira officially appointed football coach
New Delhi, November 1 The All India Football Federation (AIFF) on November 1 officially elevated assistant coach Savio Medeira as the chief coach while announcing a 27-member national squad for the forthcoming international friendlies against Malaysia.
Bopanna, Advani named 'Global Shapers'
Bangalore, November 1 Davis cupper Rohan Bopanna and ace cueist Pankaj Advani have been inducted into the 'Global Shapers', an exclusive community of exceptional youth in their 20s, established by the World Economic Forum (WEF).
Arunachal Pradesh gets new CM
Itanagar, Nov 1 Nabam Tuki was Tuesday sworn in as the new chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh.
PM heads for G20 Summit
New Delhi, Nov 1 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh heads for Cannes in the French Riviera Wednesday for the 6th G20 Summit where the focus of the leaders is expected to be on how to resolve the sovereign debt crisis in Europe.
World's seven billionth baby born in UP village
Mal, Oct 31 Nargis, a girl born Monday in this village in Uttar Pradesh, India's most populous state, was welcomed as the world's seven billionth baby -- an honour she shares with a girl child born in the Philippines and a boy in Russia.
Indian-American in Obama's communications body
Washington, Nov 1 President Barack Obama has named an Indian American lawyer Ajit Varadaraj Pai, a Republican, and Jessica Rosenworcel, a Democrat, as Commissioners on the bipartisan Federal Communications Commission.
India's exports grow to 24.82 bn
New Delhi, Nov 1 India's exports in September grew at a slower rate than the past few months, rising 36.36 percent to $24.82 billion compared to $18.2 billion during the corresponding month of the previous year, official data showed Tuesday.
Lt. Gen. S.K. Singh new army vice chief
New Delhi, Nov 1 Lt. Gen. Shri Krishna Singh, the Indian Army's second senior-most officer, Tuesday took over as the new vice chief, heralding a generational change in the top brass as he is the first officer commissioned after India's last full-fledged war in 1971 to rise to the post.
Himachal project to get carbon credits
New Delhi, Oct 31 Ahead of its 17th Conference of Parties in Durban late-November, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has registered for carbon credits the Rs. 365-crore Himachal Pradesh Mid-Himalayan Watershed Project being co-funded by the World Bank.
New manufacturing policy to create 100 mn jobs
New Delhi, October 25 The Union Cabinet on Tuesday gave its nod to the national manufacturing policy that aims to create 100 million additional jobs by 2025 and develop mega industrial zones with world-class infrastructure facilities and flexible labour and environment regulations.
US visas for Indians rise
New Delhi, October 24 Underlining the burgeoning India-US relationship, the US mission has issued over 490,000 non-immigrant visas to Indian tourists, students and businessmen in the last year, an increase of 4.3 percent from the last US financial year.
MSP hiked to boost food production
New Delhi, October 25 In order to boost food production of the rabi crop in 2011-12, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on Tuesday hiked the minimum support price (MSP) of wheat to Rs.1,285 per quintal, marking an increase of Rs.165 per quintal over last year.
India to have regional biotech centre
New Delhi, October 25 In a bid to drive innovation and create more jobs in the area of biotechnology, the government Wednesday approved legislation to establish a regional centre for biotechnology training and education.
RBI hikes rates by 25 basis points
Mumbai, October 25 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Tuesday hiked key interest rates by 25 basis points Tuesday -- the 13th increase since January 2010 -- but added that it may hold off another upward revision if inflation comes down as predicted.
India in UN’s economic council
United Nations, October 25 India and 20 other countries have been elected to serve on the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the main UN body tasked with furthering economic and social cooperation and development worldwide.
China committed to ties with India
Beijing, October 25 China on Tuesday underscored its commitment to consolidating ties with India after Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh spoke positively of relations between the two countries.
India seeks fair treatment of Tri-Valley students
Washington, October 25 Indian Ambassador Nirupama Rao has asked US authorities to view the cases of hundreds of Indian students affected by the closure of “sham” Tri-Valley University in a “fair and reasonable manner”.
India, Myanmar open up borders
Aizawl, October 24 In a reciprocal gesture, Myanmar has decided to allow Indians living in border areas of four northeastern states to travel upto 16 km inside its territory without a passport or visa, a Mizoram government official said on Monday.
India-Japan dialogue on October 28-29
New Delhi, October 25 India and Japan will hold their fifth strategic dialogue later this week to explore ways to deepen their cooperation across a range of issues ranging from jointly combating piracy and terrorism to climate change and the evolving East Asia architecture.
India ready to help Middleeast peace process
United Nations, October 25 Stressing dialogue and negotiations rather than resorting to arms to address people's grievances, India has said it stands ready to play its role to achieve a just and comprehensive peace in the Middle East.
UN adopts India-backed piracy resolution
United Nations, October 25 At India's initiative, the UN Security Council has for the first time adopted a resolution seeking prosecution not only for acts of piracy off the coast of Somalia but also for hostage taking.
Obama honors Indian-American activist
Washington, October 21 President Barack Obama has honored Indian-American activist Vijaya Emani posthumously with the Presidential Citizens Medal for “her courage in overcoming and speaking out against domestic abuse” in the Indian-American community.
Tribute to Harrison’s Indian connection
Mumbai, October 21 He was one of the most important musicians of our times. Not just because George Harrison belonged to the Beatles but also because he was the first musician of global repute to try a fusion of different musical styles, especially Indian.
India deserves an F1 circuit: Schumacher
New Delhi, October 21 Retirement is the last thing on the mind of seven-time World Champion Michael Schumacher. In fact, the ace German driver, a legend in the motor racing circuit, is “curiously” looking forward to the inaugural Formula One race in India and says the country certainly deserves it.
India issues advisory for students bound for Eurasia
New Delhi, October 19 India on October 19 issued an advisory asking Indian students already pursuing or planning to study in the Eurasian region to cross-check facts about the security situation and education standards in countries in the region.
South Africans find Ámul model delicious
Pretoria, October 18 As Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh went about his engagements at the 5th India-Brazil-South Africa Summit in this beautiful administrative capital, host officials here said they were truly taken in by the success of Amul and wanted to replicate the model.
London museum showcases Tagore paintings
New Delhi, October 18 The Victoria & Albert Museum in London is carrying the cultural pact signed between India and Britain in July 2010 to the next level, with a series of art initiatives involving Indian cultural heritage.
Indian dancer debuts at legendary Carnegie Hall
New York, October 16 Carnegie Hall, New York’s legendary concert venue, isn’t the first venue that comes to mind when you think of a teenage artist’s debut. But 15-year-old Indian-American dancer Aditi Ahuja did just that with a solo performance there.
Learn from India: Hillary Clinton
New York, October 15 The United States should take a cue from the leaders of emerging powers like India and Brazil who put economics at the center of their foreign policies, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has urged policymakers.
Jadeja, Ashwin help India to huge win
Hyderabad, October 14 Devastating spells by Ravindra Jadeja and R. Ashwin after a captain’s knock by M.S. Dhoni helped India to score a massive victory by 126 runs against England in the first one-Day International at the Rajiv Gandhi international Stadium in Hyderabad on October 14.
PayPal exporters allowed $3,000 per transaction
Bangalore, October 14 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has permitted PayPal to receive $3,000 per transaction for exporting goods and services as against $500 per transaction until now, the e-commerce subsidiary of eBay said on October 14.
India’s longest rail tunnel opened in Kashmir
Jammu/Mumbai, October 14 An engineering marvel was unveiled on October 14 when the Indian Railways opened a 10.96-km long railway tunnel, the longest in the country, that will help connect the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country, a company release said.
Indian artist captures African soul
New Delhi, October 14 A row of mud huts, green trees, smiling Masai kids, Oromo women cooking on hearths and a couple of Zulu men gossiping idly – artist Premila Singh paints all these and more to capture the enigma of African soul on her canvas.
Goa’s NRI office to help migrant workers
Panaji, October 13 Goa’s Commissionerate of Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Affairs on October 13 said it would tie up with other central government agencies and Indian embassies to intervene in cases involving the state’s expatriate workers in distress.
India, Africa discuss setting up of 80 training institutions
Addis Ababa, October 12 India has discussed the action plan with the African Union (AU) to set up over 80 training and capacity building institutions across Africa, an important decision that was unveiled at the second summit in Addis Ababa in May.
Indian voices at World Newspaper Congress
Vienna, October 11 As the World Newspaper Congress and World Editors Forum kick off here on October 12, doing the talking will be some veteran editors from India as also young voices from the country, seen here as quick and adept at seizing new opportunities.
US hails Indian diaspora
New York, October 11 With a growing Indian-American community which has increasing influence, the United States sees the Indian diaspora as an important partner for forging closer ties with India, according to a senior US official.
In remembrance of Jagjit Singh
Mumbai, October 10 Indian ghazal king Jagjit Singh’s way of celebrating his 70th year was unique — he was aiming to complete 70 concerts by the end of the year. The man who gave ghazals a new lease of life managed only 46 before breathing his last.
Indian literature goes to Frankfurt
New Delhi, October 10 In a first showcase of Indian indigenous writing, a literary panorama featuring works by over 30 language writers will be on display at the Frankfurt Book Fair in a pilot exhibition for readers and publishers from Europe, the US and other countries.
FICCI, Exim Bank suggest initiatives for African economies
Hyderabad, October 10 The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and the Exim Bank of India on October 10 suggested policy initiatives for African economies to achieve sustainable growth, which in turn, is expected to boost bilateral trade and investment relations with India.
‘Indian fashion proceeding at breakneck speed’
New Delhi, October 9 India as a nation is progressing at breakneck speed and this reflects in its fashion space too, a leading British designer says, noting this country should leverage the skills of its artisans to become a global leader.
A memorable homecoming for PIOs
New Delhi, October 9 A trip to connect with their Indian roots has left a group of young Persons of India Origin (PIO) totally smitten and wanting to return as soon as they can.
India to join exercise to re-enact tsunami
United Nations, October 7 India and over 20 other nations will participate next week in a full-scale exercise to test a United Nations-backed early warning system that will re-enact the events of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
Electric vehicles boom to benefit India
Chennai, October 7 With its software talent pool, India is in a better position to benefit from new vehicle technologies like electric vehicles, experts here said on October 7.
International conference on Tagore
New Delhi, October 6 A two-day international conference on Rabindranath Tagore’s vision of the contemporary world will cast fresh light on the Nobel Laureate’s outlook to humanity and universal concerns as a global literary icon on his 150th birth anniversary.
India source of spirituality to Jobs
Washington, October 6 Apple’s visionary co-founder Steve Jobs had a spiritual side too shaped by a “spiritual retreat to India” and “traversing through the country had sparked Jobs’ conversion to Buddhism.”
NID wins global contest
New Delhi, October 5 A team of Indian design institutes led by the Ahmedabad-based National Institute of Design (NID) has won an award at the PACE Forum 2011, a global design conference-cum-competition themed on sustainable urban transportation, at the University of British Columbia in Canada.
Rajasthan ‘Shakespeare’ elated over Nobel chance
Jaipur, October 5 Author of folk tales Vijaydan Detha, also called Rajasthan’s Shakespeare, is elated that his name is doing the rounds for the Nobel prize for literature this year.
Gandhi inspired world’s greatest leaders: US lawmaker
Washington, October 5 Wishing millions of Indian-Americans and Indians around the globe on Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday, a United States lawmaker said that Mahatma shaped modern India and the world by inspiring some the greatest leaders of the time.
Indian history on stage
Port-of-Spain, October 3 Whilst there appeared to have been “personality conflicts” between India’s two independence giants, Rabindranath Tagore and Mahatma Gandhi, the two shared soft hearts, mutual respect and an overflowing camaraderie. This was clearly gleaned in the play entitled “The Prophet and the Poet” and professionally executed by the Bangalore Little Theatre Group that premiered at University of Trinidad and Tobago’s auditorium on October 2 evening.
India’s August exports rise over 44 pc
New Delhi, October 3 India’s exports surged 44.25 percent to $24.31 billion in August as compared to $16.85 billion during the corresponding month of the previous year, official data showed on October 3.
Poverty line issue sorted out, new definition soon
New Delhi, October 3 Consensus has been reached within the government on the contentious Rs.32 a day criteria for defining people below the poverty line, which drew flak from food rights activists, Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia said on October 3.
India hosts international dialogue on green economy
New Delhi, October 3 Government officials and delegates from 54 countries and 12 UN agencies attended a dialogue on green economy and inclusive growth hosted by India on October 3.
‘In Bollywood you redefine morality’
Thiruvananthapuram, October 3 The Bombay Duck is not a duck but a fish. For the starry-eyed newcomers to the film industry who don’t know this, the train back home is always waiting, says Bollywood scriptwriter Kanika Dhillon, drawing a metaphor for survival in the “unforgiving” city with its own code of morals.
Trinidad and Tobago seeks India’s help in broadband service
Port-of-Spain, October 2 Trinidad and Tobago is seeking assistance from India to boost broadband services in the country.
Nooyi second most powerful woman in US business
Washington, October 1 After five years on top, PepsiCo’s Indian-American Chairman and CEO Indra Nooyi has been pushed to the second spot as most powerful woman in US business by Kraft’s CEO, Irene Rosenfeld.
US asks India to get N-liability law vetted by IAEA
Washington, September 30 Voicing concerns over India’s nuclear liability law, the United States has asked New Delhi to engage with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to see if it is in compliance with the Convention on Supplemental Compensation (CSC).
Our ‘Rashtriya English’ legitimate: Jug Suraiya
New Delhi, September 30 The English language in India is becoming ‘glocal’ — a cross between global and local, says noted writer-columnist Jug Suraiya who has written about his early years in a new book, “JS & The Times of My Life”.
Hazare turns blogger
Mumbai, September 29 Anti-corruption crusader Anna Hazare seems set to take the virtual world by storm. He became a blogger and even joined social networking sites Facebook and Twitter on September 29.
Indian urban population to double in 3 decades: UN
New Delhi, September 29 With India’s urban population expected to double in the next 30 years, there is an urgent need to address urban issues, United Nations Under Secretary General Joan Clos said here on September 29.
‘India-US partnership has promising future’
Washington, September 28 Looking at India-US relations as “a natural and enduring partnership,” Indian Ambassador Nirupama Rao considers the future of their strategic partnership “very promising” despite issues and differences at times.
Indian-American scientists honored
Washington, September 28 Three distinguished Indian Americans, two inventors and a researcher, figure among a dozen top scientists and innovators named by President Barack Obama as recipients of the nation’s highest honors in their fields.
Indian takes pharmaceuticals to new heights in Ghana
Accra (Ghana) September 28 Gopal Vasu did not leave India to be recognized in Ghana for his work in the pharmaceutical industry. However, the firm that the former oil company executive helped found has been ranked 35th in the list of Ghana’s top 100 companies.
India rejigs manufacturing council
New Delhi, September 26 The government has reconstituted the National Manufacturing Competitiveness Council that will be responsible for formulating policies to boost industry growth under the chairmanship of V. Krishnamurthy.
India test fires Prithvi-II
Bhubaneswar, September 26 India on September 26 successfully test fired Prithvi-II —the first indigenously developed, nuclear-capable ballistic missile under the country’s Integrated Guided Missile Development Program.
Africa studies a hot new subject
New Delhi/Kolkata, September 26 With Africa becoming a major growth pole of the world economy, the resource-rich continent and its growing relationship with India have sparked a new interest among Indian students who are opting for Africa studies in increasingly large numbers.
Whiff of curry wafts over Helsinki
Helsinki, September 25 With over 30 South Asian restaurants, the aroma of curries and tandoori fare has become commonplace in this Finnish capital with eateries like Gandhi, Namaskaar and Samrat tickling the taste buds of locals and visitors alike to this land of the midnight sun.
Green buildings to be $30 bn market
New Delhi, September 25 A host of companies are showing keen interest for environment-friendly construction in India, pushing analysts to project the market size for “green buildings” to grow three-fold from $10 billion to $30 billion in the next four years.
Indian students energize US B-school
New Delhi, September 25 From cricket to curry, Indian students who account for one of the largest overseas groups at the premier Darden B-school in the U.S. have a “wonderful influence” on the community and are being embraced “wholeheartedly”, the institution’s dean says.
PM cautions against protectionism
United Nations, September 24 Noting that the world economy is in trouble, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday cautioned against allowing the slowdown to trigger the building of walls of protectionism and checking free movement of people, services and capital.
India takes over presidency of G-24 after 28 years
Washington, September 23 India on September 22 took over the presidency of the G-24 group of 24 developing countries after a gap of 28 years and said it would use the multilateral platform to build stronger South-South cooperation.
India hails the ‘century of Asia and Africa’
United Nations, September 23 Calling it the “century of Asia and Africa”, India has vowed to walk together with South Africa on a journey of shared principles into a better future for the entire world.
Israeli play gets an Indian avatar
New Delhi, September 23 Israel top’s contemporary playwright, Motti Lerner, has a slice of India in his heart. One of his Hebrew plays has been given an Indian avatar — with an Indian cast — by an indigenous theatre ensemble in the capital.
Tagore paintings 'a huge draw' in South Korea
New Delhi, September 23 An exhibition of 49 original paintings of Rabindranath Tagore now on display in the South Korean capital are drawing hundreds every day.
Sonu Nigam, Pyarelal recreate 1960s magic
Gurgaon, September 23 It was a sight to behold when singer Sonu Nigam recreated the 1960s by singing popular songs of the time with legendary Pyarelal of musical duo Laxmikant-Pyarelal. The legend was conferred a special honor for outstanding contribution to pop music at the Global Indian Music Awards (GIMA).
Remembering the Tiger
New Delhi, September 22 Former India captain Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi always played the game with a straight bat and was equally forthright off the field.
28 PIOs to learn more about India
New Delhi, September 22 Twenty-eight people of Indian origin (PIOs) from different countries will get an opportunity to understand India better at a three-week study program that began on September 22.
US-India trade group seeks investment treaty
Washington, September 22 Highlighting the rise of India, a leading US-India trade advocacy group has suggested early conclusion of a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) to take their relationship to an entirely new level.
‘India one of most appealing growth venues globally’
New Delhi, September 22 Promising demographics, freedom of speech and respect for investor rights make India one of the most appealing growth venues, says a leading American B-school head while advising that the country must “truly” integrate into the global economy, despite the risks, to be a world leader.
Wigmore Hall opens doors to Amjad Ali Khan
Chicago, September 22 Next month London’s Wigmore Hall, which specializes in chamber music, will take the unprecedented step of awarding a residency to sarod maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, the first time that it has opened up its space to classical music of another culture.
Two IITians among 400 richest Americans
Washington, September 22 Two Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) alumni have made it to Forbes’ list of the 400 richest Americans, topped for the 18th year in a row by Bill Gates with Warren Buffett second.
India to boost Ethiopia’s leather production
Addis Ababa, September 22 Two Indian government leather development institutions will transform Ethiopia’s leather sector in three to five years and make it globally competitive. Ethiopia has Africa’s largest cattle population.
HCL Technologies in Washington to create 400 jobs
New Delhi, September 22 HCL Technologies on September 22 said it has opened a global delivery center in Redmond, Washington, where its initial investment of $4 million will create over 400 jobs in the Seattle area over the next two years.
French nationals of Indian descent — a forgotten lot
New Delhi, September 21 Their ancestors were taken to the French territories of Guadeloupe and Reunion Island over a hundred years ago. But these French nationals of Indian descent still value their Indian ancestry and are pained at non-inclusion in the Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) category.
Economy, terror, Gulf, North Africa top PM’s agenda at UN
New Delhi, Sep 21 Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh called upon all nations to address the multiple challenges the world is facing today, such as economic slowdown, terrorism and unrest in West Asia and North Africa, ahead of his visit to the United Nations (UN).
Sikkim quake toll rises to 61
Gangtok, September 21 The toll in the Sikkim earthquake on September 21 went up to 61 as workers continued to feverishly search the affected areas, an official said.
India offers to develop Botswana’s rail network
Gaborone (Botswana), September 20 India has offered technical assistance to develop and strengthen rail network and other mode of transportation in the southern African country of Botswana.
US-India CEO Forum to boost bilateral trade, investment
Washington, September 20 The US-India CEO Forum, including captains of industry and top government officials from both sides, will meet in Washington on September 22 to forge an action plan to enhance bilateral trade and investment.
Two young women show the way forward
Barmer, September 20 Two young women have begun a silent revolution in a small village of Rajasthan’s Barmer district. They are teaching about 100 girls in a madrasa of Kharchi village to bring about 100 percent literacy amongst girl children in the village, which has only a handful of men who can boast of being educated.
India to celebrate Malaviya’s 150th birth anniversary
New Delhi, September 20 The government has constituted a National Implementation Committee (NIC) under the chairmanship of Rajya Sabha member Karan Singh to commemorate Madan Mohan Malaviya’s 150th birth anniversary.
India to set up Gandhi Center in the Netherlands
New Delhi, September 20 The spirit of India will shine at the Hague in Netherlands, where the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) will inaugurate the Gandhi Center on October 2 on the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi.
Museum study, conservation — emerging career options
New Delhi, September 17 Growing awareness about art and culture is opening up new education avenues like museology, conservation and art history for Indian youngsters with a flair for aesthetics and love for the land’s millennia-old heritage.
Rakesh Nath wins Kovalam fest’s Emerging Writers Award
New Delhi, September 17 Rakesh Nath, a 26-year-old journalist and writer based in Kerala, has won the second edition of the Emerging Writers Award, an initiative of the Kovalam Literary Festival to recognize young talent in Malayalam language writing.
South Asian-Americans seek return to diversity ideals
Washington, September 16 Documenting the experiences of South Asian-Americans in the decade after the 9/11 terror attacks, a community organization has suggested steps to ensure American ideals of diversity, inclusion and equality.
India has bright prospects in animation industry: Soni
Kolkata, September 16 The animation industry in India is poised to be a major money spinner, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni said on September 16 and advised students of the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI) to take up studies on animation and production management.
Finnair starts maiden cargo service to India
Helsinki, September 16 In a bid to cash in on the fast growing freighter services demand between India and Europe, Nordic carrier Finnair’s cargo subsidiary on September 16 started its maiden flight from Helsinki to Mumbai.
E-commerce changing India’s art mart: Saffronart CEO
New Delhi, September 15 E-commerce sites are changing the way people buy art in the country, says Dinesh Vazirani, CEO of India’s biggest online art auction house Saffronart. The e-buyers are aggressive, confident and wide in demography.
Will it be Bond versus Goa’s waterfall deity?
Panaji, September 15 If British super-spy James Bond comes visiting at the Dudh Sagar waterfall, he had better take care of some do’s and don’ts. Local people regard it as a guardian spirit.
Christie’s to auction impressions of colonial India
New Delhi, September 14 The heritage of colonial India will be one of the major attractions at Christie’s upcoming travel, science and natural history auction in London, on September 29.
Jaipur Maharaja band to jam at Singapore Grand Prix
Jaipur, September 14 They are a motley crew of musicians and performers who belt out numbers ranging from Bollywood chartbusters to traditional Rajasthani folk songs, accompanied by a dance and jugglery show. The group has now been invited to perform at the Singapore Grand Prix Formula One race to be held later this month.
Indian-American named business head in rich US county
Washington, September 14 An Indian-American with interests in media and the diamond business has been promoted as Director of Business and Economic Development of Nassau County in New York state — one of America’s wealthiest counties.
Travel Corporation starts luxury train journeys in India
New Delhi, September 14 Tour and travels firm Travel Corporation (India) Limited (TCI) on September 14 launched its luxury train — The Indian Maharaja-Deccan Odyssey — which will cover multiple destinations across India.
India, UAE sign manpower agreement
New Delhi, September 13 India and United Arab Emirates (UAE) on September 13 signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on manpower which would facilitate Indians workers headed to the Gulf country.
PM seeks ‘integrated action for development’ in Maoist areas
New Delhi, September 13 Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on September 13 called for “integrated action” in Maoist areas towards “sustainable development for all”, also stressing on learning from the grassroots level for success of the development programs.
IGNOU to launch post-graduate medical programs
New Delhi, September 13 The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is to launch a series of post graduate medical programs, a varsity statement said on September 13.
Bobby Jindal endorses Rick Perry for president
Washington, September 13 Louisiana’s Indian American Governor Bobby Jindal has come out in support of Texas Governor Rick Perry for his Republican party’s nomination to challenge President Barack Obama in the 2012 election.
New Competition Policy to be in place next year, says Moily
Mumbai, September 12 Billing it as the second biggest reforms initiative, union Corporate Affairs Minister Veerappa Moily said on September 12 that the proposed new Competition Policy — aimed at bringing transparency in all government and public sector transactions — would be in place by next year.
FII investment limit in corporate bonds raised to $25 billion
New Delhi, September 12 Foreign Institutional Investors (FII) will be allowed to invest up to $25 billion in long term corporate bonds in the infrastructure sector in India, the government said on September 12.
Six-lane roads to connect India’s metros
New Delhi, September 12 India’s metros — Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai — will soon be connected through six-lane roads, Minister for Road Transport and Highways C.P. Joshi said on September 12.
India’s plastics industry to grow to Rs.1,000 bn in 2012
New Delhi, September 12 The turnover of the Indian plastics industry is likely to grow to Rs.1,000 billion in 2012 from the current Rs.850 billion, according to Plastindia Foundation.
Dipika Pallikal wins California squash event
New Delhi, September 12 India’s top squash player Dipika Pallikal defeated Tathreb Adel of Egypt to win the WISPA $9,000 Orange County Open in Irvine, California, on September 11.
Sania cracks top 10 in doubles
New Delhi, September 12 India’s Sania Mirza on September 12 cracked the top-10 in the women’s doubles tennis rankings.
India to invest $1 trillion in infrastructure over five years: PM
New Delhi, September 12 Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on September 12 said that good road infrastructure was crucial to achieving nine percent growth, targeted for the next Five Year Plan (2012-13 to 2016-17), and adequate investment would be made towards that.
Allahabad students turn teachers by evening
September 12, Lucknow They are students who become teachers by evening to make street urchins and poor children literate! Ten undergraduates from Uttar Pradesh’s Indian Institute of Information Technology-Allahabad (IIIT-A) feel they are already doing their bit for society.
Singur vegetable vendor’s daughter shines as athlete
Kolkata, September 11 Asha Roy, daughter of a small-time vegetable vendor in West Bengal’s Singur, stole the show by taking the women’s 100 meters gold at the National Open Athletics Meet in Kolkata, on September 11.
Delhi blast: NIA seeks inputs from foreign agencies
New Delhi, September 11 The National Investigative Agency (NIA) has sought assistance from the U.S. and other foreign countries for clues on the September 7 blast outside Delhi High Court, official sources said on September 11.
Asian Champions Trophy: Goalie Sreejes stars in India’s win over Pakistan
Ordos (China), September 11 India registered a sensational 4-2 victory over arch-rivals Pakistan via the tie-breaker to lift the first edition of the men’s hockey Asian Champion Trophy on September 11.
Two-day special UNESCO tribute to Tagore’s legacy
New Delhi, September 11 Rabindranath Tagore is the flavor at the UNESCO House on Avenue de Suffren in Paris this week as part of a literary initiative to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of the Nobel laureate.
From debts to KBC prize — a Vidarbha widow’s story
Mauli Buch, Mumbai Two years ago, her world collapsed when her husband of six years committed suicide. At 25, she was a widow, who was unable to bear the burden of loans her husband had accumulated as a farmer. With two children, she braced for a colorless life. But when all seemed bleak, a ray of light appeared — a television show.
Need to strengthen intelligence to combat terrorism: PM
New Delhi, September 10 Investigative and intelligence agencies of the country must be strengthened to combat Maoists and terrorists, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh said on September 10.
Nirupama Rao presents credentials to Obama
Washington, September 10 Describing India-US global strategic partnership as a defining and indispensible collaboration for the 21st Century, President Barack Obama has said their dynamic friendship advances peace and prosperity in Asia and the world.
Gold price pushes India’s forex to $320.78 bn
Mumbai, September 10 India’s foreign exchange (forex) reserves rose by $1.61 billion to hit an all-time high of $320.78 billion for the week ended September 2 on the back of nearly $3 billion jump in the value of gold reserves, official data showed.
Big B on his first Hollywood venture
Mumbai, September 10 Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby is Big B’s foray into the West but he is not really looking at it as a gateway to Hollywood.
IGNOU to have a center for diasporic studies
New Delhi, September 9 The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) will soon be setting up a center for ‘Diasporic Studies’ at its campus in New Delhi.
Niger Delta youths learn skills from India
Abuja (Nigeria), September 9 India is helping to provide skills to over 200 youths from Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta where there have been years of unrest, said a senior Indian official.
AIFF-FIFA to set up academies in India
New Delhi, September 9 The All India Football Federation (AIFF) and world football’s governing body FIFA will be setting up regional academies and an elite academy in India.
Indian economy to grow 8.1 percent in 2011: UNCTAD
New Delhi, September 6 India’s economic growth rate is likely to climb down to 8.1 percent in 2011 from 8.6 percent in the previous year due to slowdown in the global economy, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) said in a report on September 6.
India hopeful of 4.6 percent fiscal deficit target
New Delhi, September 6 India is hopeful of meeting the 4.6 percent fiscal deficit target for 2011-12 as revenue and expenditure are in line with the estimates of April-June, the quarter review of the economy showed Tuesday.
Indian-origin entrepreneur builds wine chateau in Argentina
Mendoza (Argentina), September 6 Life’s a voyage for this promising entrepreneur. Meet Aziz Abdul who has come a long way from his humble background in Asia to build a sprawling wine chateau in this beautiful Andean nation that is home to star footballers like Digeo Maradona and Lionel Messi.
South City Projects to foray into Sri Lanka
Kolkata, September 6 South City Projects (Kolkata) Ltd, one of the fastest growing real estate firms in eastern India, will foray into the real estate sector in Sri Lanka by investing nearly $100 million in a project in Colombo.
‘Islam in America’ exhibition opens in Mumbai dargah
Mumbai, September 6 United States Consul-General Peter Haas on September 26 inaugurated a photo and video exhibition on ‘Islam in America’ at the Haji Ali shrine in south Mumbai.
Firm aims to turn Kerala into tennis nursery
Thiruvananthapuram, September 6 Terumo Penpol — the country’s largest manufacturer of blood bags — has come out to support an innovative project to turn Kerala into a tennis nursery by promoting the sport among school kids.
US Open: Paes-Bhupathi beat Somdev-Huey to enter quarterfinals
New York, September 6 India’s Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi dispatched compatriot Somdev Devvarman and Treat Conrad Huey of the Philippines 6-4, 7-5 to enter the U.S. Open Tennis Championships men’s doubles quarter-finals.
‘Manmohan’s trip to be turning point in Delhi-Dhaka ties’
Dhaka, September 5 Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh’s two-day trip to Bangladesh is a historic visit and has “all the potentials of becoming a major turning point in bilateral relations”, said a leading daily on September 5 adding that: “Anything short of visionary actions on the part of India will be highly disappointing for us.”
Growing interest in India for image consultancy
Mumbai, September 5 Internationally acclaimed image consultant trainers Christina Ong and Lynne Marks, who will come to India in November with their Image Asia Training program for prospective image consultants, say they chose the country as they feel there is a tremendously growing interest in the field.
Bollywood celebs go down memory lane, thank teachers
Mumbai, September 5 On the occasion of Teacher’s Day on September 5, Bollywood celebrities like Akshay Kumar, Bipasha Basu, Raveena Tandon and Anupam Kher thanked their schoolteachers for the lessons that have made them what they are today.
Messi says farewell to his Kolkata fans
Kolkata, September 4 Soccer superstar Lionel Messi on September 4 bid adieu to his countless football lovers here as Argentina held their last practice session in the city before leaving for Bangladesh Monday.
India eyes African oil, gas assets
New Delhi, September 4 Even though Sudan is the only African country where state-owned Indian companies have started extracting hydrocarbons, other countries in the continent are also showing promise, according to information available with the Oil Ministry.
Five global firms short-listed for grand Bihar museum
Patna, September 4 The Bihar government has short-listed five global architecture firms to design and build a world class museum in Patna, according to the state building construction department.
Over 90 percent post offices computerized, visa services soon in remote areas
New Delhi, September 3 Over 90 percent of departmental post offices across the country have been computerized, according to official data.
Reprieve for Rajiv Gandhi killers, hanging stayed
Chennai, August 30 The Madras High Court on August 30 stayed for eight weeks the hanging of the three convicts sentenced to death for conspiring to assassinate former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.
Indian economy grew 7.7 percent in first quarter
New Delhi, August 30 Despite a relatively higher growth of 3.9 percent in farm output, the Indian economy grew at a rate of 7.7 percent in the first quarter of this fiscal, against 8.8 percent in the like period of last fiscal.
Indian investors eye Ethiopian agriculture
Addis Ababa, August 29 A group of Indian investors are visiting Ethiopia with interest in the east Afrian nation’s rapidly growing farm sector.
Khel Ratna in bag, Narang sets sights on Olympics
New Delhi, August 29 The happy faces in blazers stood out from the buzz of constant chatter after being conferred the Khel Ratna and Arjuna awards but resolute, nonetheless, to raise their performance by several notches in the upcoming tournaments.
Tapping Gujarat hill station’s herbal wealth
Saputara (Gujarat), August 29 Their knowledge is ages old and they are believed to possess herbal remedies for problems like diabetes, asthma, infertility and joint pain. The Gujarat government is now set to tap the traditional knowledge of tribal healers of Saputara to promote health tourism.
India is changing by the minute: Italian restaurateur
New Delhi, August 29 His passion for cooking drove Italian Canadian Enzo Renda to create the first Eggspectation outlet in Montreal in 1993 to prove that eggs were more than just a breakfast food. He brought the concept to New Delhi five years ago and has been so encouraged by the response because, as he says, “India is changing by the minute”, that he has now branched out to introducing fine Italian dining at a golf resort in Greater Noida.
India highlights ‘severe mismatch’ in UN peacekeeping
United Nations, August 27 The United Nations (UN) Security Council has reaffirmed its primary responsibility for peacekeeping under the UN Charter with India highlighting the “severe mismatch” between the resources and the mandates of peacekeeping operations.
Indian accountant finds sixth comet in nine months
Thane (Maharashtra), August 27 He spends most of his day at office and commuting to and from Mumbai in crowded suburban trains but Shishir Deshmukh still finds time to look at the stars and pursue his passion for astronomy. And he has just discovered his sixth comet in just nine months, the first by an Indian.
Over 1,500 delegates to attend Indian diaspora conclave in 2012
New Delhi, August 26 Over 1,500 delegates from across the globe are likely to participate in India’s annual diaspora conclave to be held in Jaipur from January 7 to 9, 2012, Vayalar Ravi, Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs and Civil Aviation, said on August 26.
Rs. 4.9 bn FDI in renewable energy sector
New Delhi, August 26 Over Rs.49 billion has been received by the renewable energy sector as Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) since 2008-09 with Rs.4.83 billion investment in the first quarter of the current financial year itself, Minister of New and Renewable Energy Farooq Abdullah said on August 26.
Wipro’s first rural BPO centre comes up in Tamil Nadu
Bangalore, August 26 India’s third largest IT bellwether Wipro Ltd opened its first rural back office for providing business process outsourcing (BPO) solutions to global clients in Tiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu on August 26.
Underground river named after Indian-origin scientist
Brasilia, August 26 Brazilian scientists has discovered the existence of an underground river some 6,000 km long running beneath the Amazon River. The river has been named after an Indian-origin scientist, a media report said on August 25.
Chennai innovator gives voice to the voiceless
Chennai, August 26 After a Master’s from Indian Institute of Technology-Madras, Ajit Narayanan headed to the United States like many of his batchmates. But the entrepreneurial bug soon bit and he returned home. What followed was a speech synthesizer for spastic children and a recognition by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) as one of the world’s top 35 young innovators.
Khurshid meets Team Anna ahead of all-party meet
New Delhi, August 24 Ahead of an all-party meet scheduled for August 24 afternoon, there was a second round of talks between the government and Team Anna, this one involving Law Minister Salman Khurshid.
Committed to developing civil n-energy: PM
New Delhi, Aug 24 Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh assured the Lok Sabha on August 24 that the government was 'committed' to the development of civil nuclear energy and said there 'would be no compromise on the safety of power plants'.
IIT Patna seeks partnerships with US varsities
Patna, August 24 The Indian Institute of Technology-Patna (IIT-Patna) has initiated moves to establish collaboration with premier universities in the United States for student and faculty exchange programs.
Goa wants to push tourists towards hinterland
Panaji, August 24 Beach tourism had reached saturation point and the government now wants tourists to head to the hinterland to discover the state's relatively unknown wonders, a senior official said.
Bhaichung Bhutia retires from international football
New Delhi, August 24 Former Indian Football Captain Bhaichung Bhutia has ended his 16-year-old stellar international career regretting that he could not play in the World Cup.
India enters pre-quarter of world team squash
Paderborn (Germany), August 24 India overcame a fighting South Africa 3-0 to top Group F and qualify for the pre-quarterfinals of the men's world team squash championship here on August 23.
Only 2 NRI applications for voting so far: poll panel
Panaji, August 23 The Election Commission of India (ECI) has received only two applications from NRIs after they were allowed to register as voters in November 2010, a top official said Tuesday.
Split CEO, chairman posts in banks: RBI governor
Mumbai, August 23 The posts of chairman and chief executive officer (CEO) of public sector banks should be bifurcated to ensure effective checks and balances, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor D. Subbarao said on August 23.
Nano drives sterilization in Rajasthan
Jaipur, August 23 In an effort to get more people to undergo sterilization, the authorities in two districts of Rajasthan are offering them a chance to win Tata Nano cars.
Health Ministry focuses on rural areas
New Delhi, August 23 Rural areas are now under the Health Ministry's focus for vulnerability to diseases such as diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular and psychological diseases among others, union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad said on August 23.
India records second win in world team squash
Paderborn (Germany), August 23 India romped to their second win by drubbing Kuwait 3-0 in a Group F tie of the men's world team squash championship here on August 22.
Kakodkar recommendations on IITs to be considered: PM
Kharagpur, August 22 Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on August 22 said the Council of IITs and the central government would soon consider the recommendations of the Anil Kakodkar panel on the functioning of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT).
Srinagar gets floating post office
Srinagar/New Delhi, August 22 Tourists to Jammu and Kashmir now have another attraction — a floating post office on the Dal Lake in Srinagar — the first in the country.
Mumbai’s Dahi Handi stakes run high, pyramids higher
Mumbai, August 22 The city woke up to the beating of drums on the festival of Janmashtami on August 22. With prize money worth lakhs dangled for them, many young men and women got together to form human pyramids to reach the pots of curd hung high and break them — a competition that’s part of the annual celebration of Lord Krishna’s birthday.
Government open for discussion on Lokpal: PM
Kolkata, August 22 Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh said on August 22 that the government was open for debate on the Lokpal Bill and all concerned individuals should convey their concerns to their representatives in parliament and to the standing committee that is examining the legislation.
Paes, Bhupathi clinch Cincinnati title
Cincinnati (Ohio), August 22 India’s Mahesh Bhupathi and Leander Paes have won their second ATP World Tour Masters 1000 title of the season, defeating Frenchman Michael Llodra and Serb Nenad Zimonjic 7-6(4) and 7-6(2), in a rip-roaring final at the Western and Southern Tennis Open.
India should file more patents: PM
Kolkata, August 21 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh regretted India’s low filing of patents compared to several developing countries, and said the nation should aim to produce more Nobel laureates.
Impeachment debate: Lawyers say judges’ criticism fair
New Delhi, August 21 Even as Justice V.S. Sirpurkar of the Supreme Court found “indigestible” the criticism of judiciary during a Rajya Sabha debate to impeach Justice Soumitra Sen of Calcutta High Court, lawyers opined that in a democracy no institution is immune from criticism and the judges should not be wary of it.
IGNOU to partner with US community colleges
New Delhi, August 21 The Indira Gandhi National Open University’s (IGNOU) community college initiative is finalizing a partnership with the U.S. community college system, IGNOU Vice-Chancellor V.N. Rajasekharan Pillai informed on August 21.
Global yogurt chain to foray into India
New Delhi, August 21 South Korea-headquartered yogurt chain Yogurberry announced on August 21 that it would set up shop in India within three months and expand to 100 stores in the next five years.
India, Bangladesh sign maps, settle boundary row
Dhaka, August 20 India and Bangladesh on August 20 began signing border maps in Dhaka, officially recognizing their 4,156-km international boundary and ending a decades-old lingering discord over the issue.
Hazare to fast at Ramlila ground for stronger anti graft bill
New Delhi, August 19 Civil society activist Anna Hazare will continue his fast for a stronger anti-corruption law at the Ramlila ground in Delhi, his aide Arvind Kejriwal said on August 19.
India severely impacted by terrorism: US report
Washington, August 19 India continued to be severely impacted by terrorism in 2010 with sustained violence in Kashmir and attempted infiltrations from Pakistan remaining serious concerns for government, according to a United States report.
Jamia student to represent India in ‘Little Olympics’
New Delhi, August 18 A student of Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) has been selected in the ‘Indian Universities Tennis Team’ and will be representing the country in the World Universiade, also known as ‘Little Olympics’, being held in China, an official said.
Bill to make law stricter against benami transactions
New Delhi, August 18 The government on August 18 introduced a bill in parliament to replace an existing law in a bid to check tax evasion and impose stricter controls and penalties on financial transactions under fictitious names.
India-Russia combat jet to compete in South Korean tender
Moscow, August 18 The export version of Russia’s T-50 fifth-generation fighter aircraft, jointly developed with India and also called the PAK-FA, is likely to compete in a South Korean tender for 60 combat planes with advanced stealth capability.
India planning special renewable energy zones: Abdullah
New Delhi, August 17 To bring down the cost of renewable energy (RE) systems, India is chalking out a comprehensive plan for creating “special RE zones”, Minister for New and Renewable Energy Farooq Abdullah said on August 16.
Techies launch online petition for corruption free India
Bangalore, August 17 About 10,000 techies working in the electronics city on the outskirts of this tech hub launched an online petition for a corruption free India on August 17.
Indian American politicians rake in cash
Washington, August 12 Indian-American candidates are emerging as a fundraising force for the 2012 United States elections, raking in cash from a well-heeled and tight-knit community seeking to expand its political influence, reported Politico, a Washington newspaper.
Snake boat race surges ahead, a man’s legacy lives on
Alappuzha (Kerala), August 12 Sixteen snake boats and around 40 small boats are all set to surge through the waters of Punnamada lake as the 59th Nehru Boat Race kicks off here on August 13. And, not far from the spot will be held the burial of a man who was one of the prime movers of the event.
Couple on a drive along India’s border
Chandigarh, August 12 A couple from Chennai’s Kottivakkam area is embarking on a 70-day journey from Mumbai this Independence Day to drive along the entire border of India’s mainland.
Right to education to extend to secondary schools
New Delhi, August 12 After bringing primary education up to Class 8 under the Right to Education Act, the government is now contemplating to bring secondary education, too, under the Act, the Rajya Sabha was informed on August 12.
Delhi, Bangalore metro projects get EGoM nod
New Delhi, August 11 Following the Empowered Group of Ministers (EGoM) approval to start work on phase-III of the Delhi Metro Rail Project, about 103 more kilometers will be added to its network by March 2016, said Minister of Urban Development Kamal Nath.
Assaults on Indian students in Australia not racial
Sydney, August 11 Indian students in Australia were more likely to be victims of robbery but these crimes were opportunistic but not racially motivated, said a report.
India issues advisory to workers headed to Iraq
New Delhi, August 11 With around 28 Indians having been duped by travel agents, India has issued an advisory to prospective workers going to Iraq to exercise “due diligence” and to check credentials of recruiting agents before going to that country.
Indo-Canadian CEO to head top tech body
Toronto, August 11 Indo-Canadian CEO Karna Gupta, who made headlines in 2009 in stopping hostile takeover of his encryption company by BlackBerry, has been appointed the president and CEO of the Information Technology Association of Canada (ITAC).
It was scary, says Sikh leader in Britain
New Delhi, August 10 Recalling a terrifying night of plunders in West Bromwich town in the West Midlands, England, a Sikh community leader in a British town said, “It was scary”.
India trying to bring back 28 Indians ‘duped’ by travel agents
New Delhi, August 10 The Indian Embassy in Baghdad is “proactively liaising” with the Iraqi authorities to facilitate the return of 28 Indians who were allegedly duped by unscrupulous travel agents promising them lucrative jobs, but are now subjected to long working hours with poor salaries.
India pitches for greater US investment
New Delhi, August 10 Nirupama Rao, India’s Ambassador-Designate to the United States, pitched for greater American investment, underlining the need to create more common ground between India and the U.S. to strengthen their relations.
Government promises ‘reasonably priced’ food for all
New Delhi, August 10 The proposed National Food Security Bill will ensure that every Indian has access to food grains at a reasonable price, says minister K.V. Thomas — a claim activists say is inadequate and lacks accountability.
Kerala makes teaching more student friendly
Thiruvananthapuram, August 10 In a welcome move, Kerala has reduced the teacher-student ratio from 1:45 to 1:30 in all state owned and state supported schools.
Locarno, where independent Indian filmmakers rise and shine
Locarno (Switzerland), August 9 As many as 12 independent filmmakers are in the spotlight at the 64th Locarno International Film Festival. From networking to meeting co-producers, to having access to Western audiences, the event is providing them a platform to turn their scripts into movies at the Open Doors section.
India is focus for world’s largest serviced residence operator
Kolkata, August 7 Ascott, which calls itself the world’s largest serviced residence owner-operator, is expanding its footprint in India in cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Pune, adding to its $250 million investment in seven upcoming properties.
NRI woes on surrendering Indian passports
New Delhi, August 7 Many non-resident Indians (NRIs) say they are facing problems because of the formalities they now have to face while surrendering their Indian passports to acquire US citizenship.
India will get more prominence at Harvard
New Delhi, August 7 Harvard alumni in India will join hands with the growing Indian student community to make India the professional, academic and cultural focus at America’s premier Ivy League university that is celebrating 375 years of its existence, alumni heads said.
US drops charges against Rajat Gupta
Washington, August 6 The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has agreed to drop an administrative action against Rajat Gupta, former Indian-American Director of Goldman Sachs Group Inc. In return, he has agreed to withdraw a lawsuit claiming the regulatory proceeding violated his constitutional rights.
Pitroda creates waves in mobile commerce market
Chicago, August 6 A mobile wallet management platform created by Sam Pitroda is set to fundamentally shake up the multibillion-dollar American mobile commerce market in alliance with a triumvirate of top US operators.
Winnie the Pooh to debut in Indian cinemas
New Delhi, August 6 The philosophical cartoon character, Pooh, developed by British author A.A. Milne, is making its debut on the Indian big screen on August 12, and producer The Walt Disney Company promises the film will be a delight for “grandparents and grandchildren alike”.
NRI businessman offers rural students scholarships
Thiruvananthapuram, August 5 An Oman-based Keralite businessman will offer scholarship for rural students from across the country to do a post-graduate course in management at the Asian School of Business (ASB) here.
Special cell takes up issues of Indian workers abroad
New Delhi, August 4 A recently constituted special cell takes up parliament members' complaints regarding problems faced by Indian workers aboard, the government said on August 4.
Two-day folk festival to celebrate India's forest
New Delhi, August 4 Folk musicians from across the country will celebrate the country’s bountiful forests at a festival of folk music to be held at the India Habitat Center from August 6 to 7.
Weather alerts for farmers reap Rs.500 bn dividend!
New Delhi, August 5 In a country where close to 60 percent of the 1.21 billion population still depends on agriculture for a living, short and timely alerts to farmers about the weather have led to economic benefits worth a whopping Rs.500 billions.
India-led UNSC seeks political solution in Syria
United Nations, August 4 The UN Security Council under India's presidency has called on Syrian authorities to cease the use of force, saying an inclusive and Syrian-led political process is the only solution to the crisis there.
TCS plans Rs.23 bn capital expenditure
New Delhi, August 5 India's largest software firm, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), has said it intends to spend Rs.23 billions as capital expenditure during the current financial year. The firm also said it would look for acquisitions.
‘Indian medical industry to be worth Rs.108 bn by 2015'
New Delhi, August 5 India's world-class medical technology coupled with a skilled medical workforce will ensure that the Indian medical tourism industry is worth Rs.108 billion and that the number of foreign patients visiting the country crosses 32 lakh by 2015, a commerce chamber report said on August 5.
Postage stamp on Rashtrapati Bhavan released
New Delhi, August 5 Marking the 80th anniversary of the commissioning of Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Pratibha Patil on August 5 released a commemorative stamp on the historical building.
Sahitya Akademi to honour four northeastern writers
Agartala, August 4 Four renowned writers of northeastern India will be awarded the Sahitya Akademi translation prize 2010 for their outstanding literary works, an official said here in Tripura capital on August 4.
103 Indians died in Australian attacks: Vayalar Ravi
New Delhi, August 3 As many as 103 Indians were killed or injured in attacks in Australia last year, Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi told the Lok Sabha on August 3, adding that India has taken measures to prevent such assaults in future.
Indian diaspora in Netherlands to hold first annual meet
The Hague, August 3 Representatives of the Indian diaspora organizations in the Netherlands will meet in the Hague on September 25 for the first Dutch edition of the annual diaspora conference, EuAsiaNews reported.
Indian engineers recalled to re-start Ghana’s silk project
Accra, August 4 Indian engineers who worked on a silk production project in Ghana have been asked to return as the machines had been lying idle for over seven years for lack of trained local engineers, officials said.
Kerala charged up for snake boat race
Alappuzha (Kerala), August 3 For the past few days a steady stream of foreign tourists has been arriving at the Punamada Lake here to watch snake boats, each rowed by over 100 oarsmen in quick unison, practice vigorously ahead of the grand competition on August 13.
Packing on fat is riskier for South Asians: Study
Toronto, August 2 Packing on extra body fat is riskier for Indians and other South Asians than white Caucasian people, says a study.
Indian-American to lead US efforts to expand ties with diaspora
Washington, July 31 Mitul Desai, an Indian-American international finance and law expert, has been brought in to the State Department’s South Asia bureau to lead its efforts to expand “partnerships and engagement with the private sector and Diaspora groups” in the United States.
Indian leads spiritual healing project in Britain
London, July 31 Hospitals in Britain under the National Health Service are offering patients “spiritual healing” under a project led by an Indian-origin man.
Indian-American groups seek relief on foreign bank accounts
Washington, July 30 Several Indian American civic and professional groups have sought President Barack Obama’s intervention seeking relief on penalties stipulated by US tax rules on foreign bank accounts.
US warns Indian students about visa fraud rings
Washington, July 30 As an unaccredited private university in the United States with 90 percent Indian students has come under the scanner of authorities here, the US government has asked students to be alert to the existence of “predatory visa fraud rings and fraudulent document vendors.”
India plans better housing for urban poor
New Delhi, July 30 With an estimated 95 million people expected to be living in shanties by next year, the government has drawn up an “ambitious”, but “achievable” scheme to transform the urban landscape of the country by providing affordable houses and better amenities for the urban poor.
India to use UNSC presidency to establish credentials
United Nations, July 29 India will utilize its upcoming presidency of the UN Security Council to re-establish its credentials with political maturity to be a permanent member of the top decision making body, according to New Delhi’s top UN envoy.
Vice-President confers National Communal Harmony Awards
New Delhi, July 29 The Vice-President of India M. Hamid Ansari conferred National Communal Harmony Awards for the years 2009 and 2010 on two individuals and an organization for their outstanding work in the field of communal harmony and national integration, in New Delhi, on July 29.
Guru Tegh Bahadur memorial unveiled in Delhi
New Delhi, July 29 Constructed over an area of 11.87 acres, the aesthetic and grand memorial dedicated to the ninth Sikh guru Guru Tegh Bahadur was unveiled at Singhu on July 29.
Indian missions in UAE announce special Ramadan timings
Abu Dhabi, July 29 The Indian missions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on July 29 announced that they would observe revised timings during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.
Before US posting, Rao speaks on maritime policy
New Delhi, July 28 India is “in principle” opposed to the idea of an international judicial tribunal for trying pirates captured by global navies in the Gulf of Aden, as it interferes with national legal sovereignty of states, said outgoing Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao in what was her last engagement on July 28 evening.
Gurgaon firm inks telecom deal with Canadian co.
Toronto, July 29 Gurgaon-based Delta Power Solutions, which serves India’s major cellular service providers, including Reliance, AirTel, Vodafone and Idea Cellular, has signed an agreement with Canada’s Dantherm Power to sell clean energy solutions in India.
Indian firm to set up $200 mn hub in Maldives
Male, July 28 An Indian company will set up a $200 million global knowledge and medical hub in Maldives, a country that receives a million tourists a year.
Golden voice of Dhrupad falls silent
New Delhi, July 29 A golden voice of Indian classical music has fallen silent with the death of Ustad Rahim Fahimudddin Dagar, a doyen of the Dhrupad school who was said to be a descendent of legendary Mughal musician Tansen’s guru.
Taj Mahal rakes in Rs.0.19 bn from ticket sales
New Delhi, July 28 The seventh wonder of the world, the Taj Mahal, is the top draw in terms of revenue from tourism, logging a gate entry income of Rs.19,89,49,560 for the fiscal 2010-2011, the ministry of culture said on July 28.
Sariska to get two tiger cubs
Jaipur, July 28 The Sariska Tiger Reserve, where the number of big cats has reduced to five, will get two tiger cubs from Ranthambore National Park to boost its tiger population, officials said on July 28.
Mani Kaul’s Duvidha, two more Indian movies at Venice fest
New Delhi, July 29 Late filmmaker Mani Kaul’s Duvidha will be screened at the
68th Venice International Film Festival, starting August 31, along with Gurvinder Singh’s Punjabi movie Anhey Ghorhey Da Daan and Amit Dutta’s Sonchidi.
Two Indians honored with Magsaysay Award
Manila, July 27 Two Indians, Nileema Mishra and Harish Hande, are among the five individuals and one organization cited for the Magsaysay Award, announced by the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation, Philippines, on July 27.
Anna University researcher gets Commonwealth Scholarship
Toronto, July 28 Canada’s Carleton University, which has become the prime institution in forging educational and research exchanges with India, has awarded the $10,000 Commonwealth Scholarship to an Anna University researcher.
Indian-Canadian to buy major stake in Bank of Ireland
Toronto, July 28 Toronto-based Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd, which has assets worth about $32 billion and is controlled by Hyderabad-born Prem Watsa, is buying a big stake in the Bank of Ireland to avoid its nationalization.
Now, RTI hearings through video conferencing
Patna, July 28 The Bihar State Information Commission (SIC) on July 28 launched a video conferencing system for quicker hearing and disposal of complaints related to the Right To Information (RTI) Act.
Indian couple challenges British immigration law
London, July 27 An Indian woman who lives in Britain and wants her husband to join her there cannot do so because a new immigration law requires him to speak English. British citizen Rashida Chapti and her Indian husband Vali Chapti, who does not speak, read or write English, have now challenged the law in a British court.
‘Nalco on a major diversification drive’
Bhubaneswar, July 28 State-run National Aluminium Company (Nalco) wants non-core areas to contribute a fourth of its revenue through an ambitious diversification plan covering areas like nuclear energy, thermal units and other metals, chairman B.L. Bagra has said.
Navy to get second indigenous stealth frigate
New Delhi, July 27 India will induct the second indigenously designed and built stealth frigate of the Shivalik class on August 20 when Defence Minister A.K. Antony will formally hand it over to the Indian Navy in Mumbai.
Toronto girl is Miss India-Canada
Toronto, July 27 Nineteen-year-old Akhina Mooken has been crowned as Miss India-Canada 2011.
India-UK dialogue a success: FM
London, July 26 India and the United Kingdom (UK) have identified a number of issues for joint collaboration, said Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee at the fourth ministerial level meet on Indo-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue, in London, on July 25.
RBI hikes rates to tame inflation
Mumbai, July 26 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has hiked its key rates by 50 basis points each on July 26, setting the stage for commercial banks to raise their interest on personal and corporate loans. It is the 11th such exercise since January 2010 to tame inflation.
‘India, Canada trade to touch $15 billion by 2015’
Kolkata, July 26 Trade between India and Canada is set to reach $15 billion by 2015, from $4.5 billion in 2010, a top Canadian diplomat said at a program organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in Kolkata on July 26.
Post-treaty, Darjeeling tourism eyes revival
Darjeeling, July 26 Since the days of British India, Darjeeling, with its varied landscape and breathtaking beauty, has been a favorite and affordable tourist destination not only for Bengalis but also for people across the globe.
Manna Dey, Mahasweta felicitated
Kolkata, July 25 Legendary singer Manna Dey and writer Mahasweta Devi are among the nine luminaries from diverse fields felicitated with the inaugural ‘Banga-Vibhusan’ award by the West Bengal government on July 25. The award is in recognition of their contribution to arts, culture, music and sports.
India comfortably placed in world junior team squash
Boston, July 27 India recorded two wins in the women's World Junior Team squash championship at Harvard on July 27, defeating France 3-0 and Hong Kong 2-1.
Indian telecom industry grew 15 percent in 2010-11
New Delhi, July 24 In the midst of scams involving award of 2G spectrum coming to light last year, the Indian telecom services industry grew almost 15 percent to post revenues of Rs.1.66 trilion in 2010-11, up from the previous fiscal's Rs.1.44 billion, according to a survey released on July 24.
Indian enterprise to set up cancer center in Ethiopia
Ethiopia, July 24 An Indian healthcare enterprise plans to construct a cancer care center in Ethiopia at a cost of over $30 million.
Indian envoy to receive Liberia’s highest award
Monrovia, July 24 India’s Honorary Consul General to Liberia Upjit Singh Sachdeva will receive the Knight Grand Commander, the highest civilian award of Liberia, on the occasion of the country’s 164th Independence Day celebrations on July 26.
Private sector to provide half of India's power: Minister
New Delhi, July 24 Power Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde has promised reform and an enabling policy environment that will ensure half of India’s electricity is generated and distributed by private players, complementing state-run utilities.
India test flies light combat helicopter
Paris/New Delhi, July 25 India has successfully test flown the second prototype of its indigenous high altitude Light Combat Helicopter (LCH).
India-Bangladesh border ‘haats’ reopen
Shillong, July 24 Meghalaya resident Tengrak Ch Marak grew up on stories about his father’s trading days at the haats on the border with what was then East Pakistan. Those markets have reopened after 40 years, throwing up huge opportunities for trans-border commerce for people like him in India and his counterparts in Bangladesh.
Indian-born artist makes it big, eyes India
Toronto, July 25 Indian-origin Gary (Gaurav) Taxali, who has made a big impact on the art scene in the US, Canada and Europe, says showcasing his works in India is his ultimate dream.
India's June exports up 46.4 percent
New Delhi, July 9 India's merchandise exports rose 46.4 percent in June at $29.2 billion compared to June 2010, Commerce Secretary Rahul Khullar said on Friday.
President urges futuristic approach
Mumbai, July 9 President Pratibha Patil on Friday said that urban planning should not be limited to catering to the needs of current inhabitants but look at developing cities and townships keeping in mind a minimum time-frame of 25 years.
Hillary Clinton to visit India
New Delhi, July 9 Amid anxieties about new guidelines of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), India will press the U.S. for the transfer of sensitive technologies to enable full civilian cooperation when Secretary of State Hillary Clinton comes here for a strategic dialogue on July 18.
UK defence secretary explores ties with India
New Delhi, July 9 In the backdrop of the Eurofighter Typhoon combat plane being shortlisted in a $10.4-billion Indian tender, British Defence Secretary Liam Fox was here on a daylong visit Friday looking to expand defence business ties with India.
Diplomat Narendra Sarila passes away
New Delhi, July 8 Narendra Singh Sarila, former aide de camp to Lord Mountbatten, India's last viceroy, and former ambassador to France, died on Friday after a prolonged illness at his home in Geneva, Switzerland.
‘India is our key priority in trade’
Toronto, July 8 Canada on Thursday said deepening trade ties with India is its key priority as the two countries work out the modalities of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to be signed soon.
Growth momentum will continue: FM
New Delhi, July 8 Despite the recent slowdown, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said he was hopeful that the country would achieve its growth target of over 8.5 percent in the current fiscal.
Mobile subscriber base crosses 840 mn
New Delhi, July 7 The number of mobile phone subscribers in India rose to 840.28 million in May with Anil Ambani-led Reliance Communications alone adding 2.5 million subscribers, official data showed Thursday.
India, Bangladesh ink two agreements
Dhaka, July 7 Ahead of Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh's visit to Bangladesh in September, the two neighbours on Thursday signed two key pacts to enhance mutual investment and Bangladesh's exports as they renewed their pledge to jointly combat terrorism.
Pact to boost India-S Korea partnership
New Delhi, July 6 The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and Korean Creative Content Agency (KOCCA) on Wednesday signed a pact to boost media and entertainment partnership between India and South Korea.
Global competition for Nalanda university design
Patna, July 7 A global competition will be held to get the best architectural design for the Nalanda International University at the ancient seat of learning in Bihar, officials Thursday said.
Goa keen to promote tourism with Spain
Panaji, July 7 More than 400 years after saint Francis Xavier spread Christianity in Goa after sailing from present day Spain, the Goa Tourism is keen to promote tourism with Madrid.
Tokyo summit to sign projects
New Delhi, July 5 Several Indian and Japanese companies are likely to sign joint venture pacts worth billions of dollars at an upcoming business summit in Tokyo for setting up projects along the ambitious $90-billion Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor, touted as the biggest infrastructure development project in the country that will touch on an estimated 15 percent of the population.
FDI inflow double at $4.66 bn
New Delhi, July 5 Inflow of foreign direct investment (FDI) in India surged 111 percent to $4.66 billion in May, the second highest monthly equity inflow in 11 years, as the government reiterates its commitment to liberalise norms, official data showed on Monday.
‘Speed up visas for Indian-origin people’
New Delhi, July 5 The Punjab government has asked the external affairs ministry to remove hurdles faced by people of Indian origin (PIO) in the U.S. in obtaining visa to visit India.
‘India should use Canada to boost trade’
Toronto, July 5 India's route to boost its trade with the U.S. lies through Canada, says a report here.
Indian equities markets rise
Mumbai, July 5 Indian equities markets started the week on a positive note with benchmark indices and broader markets posting gains in early trade.
Varsity to have Indian diaspora studies
Panaji, July 5 The union Human Resource development (HRD) ministry has decided to set up a chair on Indian diaspora studies at the Goa University, Goa's commissioner for Non-Resident Indian (NRI) affairs Eduardo Faleiro said on Tuesday.
PM to visit Dhaka
New Delhi/Dhaka, July 4 Downplaying the row over remarks of the Indian Prime Minister about anti-India sentiments in Bangladesh, New Delhi announced on Monday Dr. Manmohan Singh's visit to Dhaka September 6-7 and underlined its commitment to 'forging a stronger and enduring relationship' with its eastern neighbour.
India ranked 9th on innovation efficiency
New Delhi, July 3 India is the ninth most efficient country when it comes to innovation, according to a study jointly conducted by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and global business school INSEAD.
Tech Mahindra makes Nigeria as base
Lagos, July 4 Tech Mahindra has chosen Nigeria as the company's headquarters in Africa in a bid to scale up its BPO operations on the continent.
Art of Living festival held in Berlin
Berlin, July 4 Thousands of people, including Indian Tourism Minister Subodh Kant Sahai, braved showers and chilly winds in the German capital to attend yoga performances and cultural programmes at the World Cultural Festival celebrating 30 years of Indian spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar's Art of Living Foundation.
India needs creative leaders: Kalam
Kolkata, July 5 Former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam on Tuesday said India needs a large number of creative leaders to become a developed nation by 2020.
Netherlands backs India for UNSC seat
New Delhi, July 5 The Netherlands, the world's 16th largest economy, on Tuesday backed India's permanent membership in an expanded UN Security Council and pitched for expanding economic ties to new heights.
India, UK to step up anti-terror ties
New Delhi, July 5 India and Britain on Tuesday discussed measures to step up anti-terrorism ties as British foreign office minister, Jeremy Browne, arrived here on a two-day India trip that will also take him to West Bengal for a meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
India opens research centre in Kyrgyzstan
New Delhi, July 5 India on Tuesday opened a mountain biomedical research centre in Kyrgyzstan to help better the lives of both military personnel and civilians, making it the first such joint project New Delhi has had with any country.
Diaspora's beginnings to be recorded for posterity
New Delhi, July 4 Indentured migration that took thousands of poor Indians across the seas to the new British plantation colonies to meet the shortage of labour after the abolition of slavery, and that formed the beginnings of the vast Indian diaspora spread across the world, is to be recorded for posterity in the Memory of the World register.
India to set up chair for Buddhist studies in Cambodia
New Delhi, July 4 India will set up a chair of Buddhist and Sanskrit Studies at Cambodia's Preah Sihanouk Raja Buddhist University for four years from 2011 to strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries, it was officially announced here.
Indian toy industry to go green
New Delhi, July 2 The Indian toy industry is all set to take the 'go green' mantra for the safety of children as the fifth toy exhibition got underway here on Saturday.
‘India, US vital markets for each other’
Washington, July 2 Challenging the notion that the U.S. investment in India has gone down, an official has said that the two countries remain vital markets for each other and India still has an attractive business climate.
India's May exports rise 56.93 pc
New Delhi, July 2 India's exports in May grew a whopping 56.93 percent at $25.94 billion compared to $16.53 billion in the like month of 2010, according to official data released on Friday.
Mango Festival begins in Delhi
New Delhi, July 2 With around 500 varieties of mangos in all shapes and sizes on display, the 23rd annual Mango Festival commenced here on Friday.
One crore Indians get their UID
New Delhi, July 1 Within nine months of its launch, one crore (10 million) Indians have been issued their unique identification number or Aadhaar numbers, a government statement said Thursday.
India showcases its biotech power in US
Washington, July 1 India is showcasing its biotechnology strength to attract global players for partnership, investments and business development at the annual BIO International Convention, the world's largest such event, here.
India giving stiff competition on jobs: Obama
Washington, July 1 Citing stiff competition from nation's like China, India and Brazil, President Barack Obama has said he is not prepared to bring the US deficit down by sacrificing education, medical research or rebuilding of infrastructure.
Mauritius, Fiji invited for Bihar Diwas
Patna, July 1 The Bihar government has invited the presidents of Mauritius, Suriname and Fiji for Bihar Diwas centenary celebration in 2012. It marks the day when the British carved out the state from Bengal Presidency March 22, 1912.
US official touts India ties
Washington, June 1 The economic growth of India is stunning, and boosting bilateral ties will be conducive to both nations, US Assistant Commerce Secretary for Market Access and Compliance Michael Camunez said on Thursday.
GOPIO welcomes easing of passport surrender rules
Washington, July 1 The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO International) has welcomed a relaxation of rules requiring former Indian citizens to produce a surrender certificate of their old passports when seeking Indian visas.
India seeks more code-sharing to boost travel to Canada
Toronto, July 1 With no Canadian airline flying to India even as two Indian carriers touch Canada, Indian civil aviation authorities have demanded enhanced code sharing by the Canadian national carrier Air Canada with Indian carriers to boost air travel between the two countries.
Nikki Haley publishing her memoir
Washington, July 1 South Carolina's Indian-American Governor Nikki Haley is all set to publish her memoir just shy of her 40th birthday.
India can grow 9-10 pc: PM
New Delhi, June 30 Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Wednesday said his government is not only committed to an inclusive growth of 9-10 percent but also believes the country has the right macro-economic foundation for such a high expansion.
IT, BPOs power India's job market
New Delhi, June 30 India's information technology and outsourcing industries led organised employment growth last fiscal, accounting for 70 percent of the one million new jobs, despite protectionism in the developed world, official data showed Wednesday.
India woos US with $1 tn business
Washington, June 30 India has invited the U.S. investors for $1 trillion dollar opportunities in infrastructure financing as both countries set a 'robust agenda' to deepen their economic ties.
‘US firmly supports clean waiver to India’
New Delhi, June 30 Speaking against the backdrop of the India Gate, outgoing the U.S. Ambassador Timothy J. Roemer Thursday said Washington was 'firmly' committed to providing enrichment and reprocessing (ENR) technologies to New Delhi and that it 'strongly and vehemently' support a clean waiver from the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
India presses for more voice in IMF
Washington, June 30 Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has expressed the hope that under the leadership of Chritine Lagarde, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will deal effectively and fairly with the serious challenges which confront the global economy.
Disney releasing 3 Indian films in US
Washington, June 30 The Walt Disney Studios is releasing three films from India 'Do Dooni Chaar', 'Once Upon A Warrior' and 'Zokkomon' in North America on July 26 simultaneously on DVD, video-on-demand, and digital download.
‘NZ works with India to combat terror’
Mumbai, June 30 New Zealand shares intelligence with India as part of its commitment to fight international terrorism, Prime Minister John Key said here on Wednesday.
Indian overseas centre in Seoul
New Delhi, June 30 India has taken yet another step in furthering its cultural diplomacy in south-east Asia with a new Indian cultural centre in Seoul.
French auto giant to invest in India
Chennai, June 30 Europe's second largest automobile maker PSA Peugeot Citroen (Peugeot) has decided to set up an integrated automobile project near the Tamil Nadu state capital at an outlay of Rs.4,000 crore to roll out 300,000 cars per annum.
India, US to expand trade links
Washington, June 29 India and the United States have agreed to work together to expand trade and investment links between their two economies, and to develop and strengthen their financial systems.
India plugs trillion dollar opportunity
Washington, June 29 As India and the United States set a 'robust agenda' to deepen their economic ties, Indian Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has plugged trillion dollar opportunities for US investors in infrastructure financing.
US vows to advance India's rise
Washington, June 29 Aiming to make India one of its top 10 trading partners, the United States has vowed to help advance India's rise as an economic power, saying the two nations' growth was good for each other.
Lagarde is new IMF chief
Washington, June 29 (IANS) French Finance Minister Christine Lagarde was named the first female head of International Monetary Fund (IMF) after the United States, India and some other fast-growing emerging nations backed her.
India, NZ eye early trade pact
New Delhi, June 28 Pushing for an early free trade area (FTA) agreement, India and New Zealand, home to some of the most exotic landscapes, on Tuesday signed a pact for the joint production of films and launched an ambitious education initiative that will spur collaboration in high-end research.
India, UAE to step up investments
New Delhi, June 28 A day after foreign minister-level talks, India Tuesday said it has decided to step up two-way investments in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and work towards enhancing the profile of their business relations, particularly in the infrastructure sector.
Enterprise software market grows 16 pc
Bangalore, June 28 Riding on the recovery of the global IT industry, the enterprise software market in India grew 16.3 percent in 2010, generating $2.5 billion as against $2.1 billion in 2009, technology research group firm Gartner said on Tuesday.
Now a new network space for art collectors
New Delhi, June 28 Art collectors in India, unlike in the west, are still a fledgling tribe. Now a new initiative by the India Art Fair, formerly known as the India Art Summit, is helping collectors hone their knowledge and stay in the loop round the year.
Toronto Bolly-wooed and bowled over
Toronto, June 27 With its heady cocktail of dance, music and glitterati, the three-day International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) will be etched in the memories of people in Canada's largest city for a long time to come.
Indian delegation to visit UK
New Delhi, June 27 A business delegation from the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) will visit Britain this week for talks with top government officials on deepening trade ties.
FICCI hosting seminar on African Fellowship
Addis Ababa, June 27 In an important initiative to bolster knowledge on African issues, a seminar will be organised here by an apex Indian industry body Tuesday to focus on scholarships instituted by India to encourage and award African researchers.
TT players at ease with European trainers
New Delhi, June 26 Indian table tennis players prefer training under European coaches because they are English speaking and, importantly, they have had more encouraging results under them than under Asians. New India coach, Anders Johansson from Sweden, is the sixth from overseas in the last 10 years.
Indian art is flavour of Paris spring-summer
New Delhi, June 26 From the scroll painters of West Bengal, to docu-movies on celebrated contemporary art masters like M.F. Husain and S.H. Raza to sculptures by Indian-born British artist Anish Kapoor, the colours of Indian art have been the flavour of the 2011 spring in France, taking to a new high the cultural exchange between the two countries.
India's solar mission visionary: Oz report
Bangalore, June 25 The Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission launched by Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh last year has positioned India 'to become a global leader in the growth of concentrating solar power (CSP) technologies,' according to a new report. This is, however, subject to the mission being 'implemented in a pragmatic manner' and initiation of new measures 'aimed at assisting Indian companies through tax incentives, soft loans or a revolving equity fund'.
India's forex reserves rise by $59 mn
Mumbai, June 26 India's foreign exchange (forex) reserves rose by $59 million to $310.56 billion for the week ended June 17 due to increase in the value of foreign currency assets even as the value of special drawing rights (SDRs) and reserves with the International Monetary Fund declined.
UAE consulate to open in Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, June 28 The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is opening a consulate in Kerala, a move sure to help the thousands from the state working in the Gulf country.
US pushing India for faster reforms
Washington, June 25 The United States is pushing India to provide greater market access, open up multi brand retail sector and step up the pace of economic reforms to realise the full potential of one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.
NZ PM embarks on first visit to India
Hamilton, June 25 New Zealand Prime Minister John Key on Saturday left for his first visit to India to meet his counterpart Dr. Manmohan Singh and discuss the free trade agreement between the two countries.
Jermaine Jackson performs at IIFA
Toronto, June 25 With his red bejewelled jacket and incessant pelvic thrusts, American musician Jermaine Jackson rocked the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Rocks here.
Street in Canada named after Raj Kapoor
Brampton (Canada), June 25 It was a picture-perfect moment. Bollywood's ultimate showman Raj Kapoor's wife, three sons, daughters and daughter-in-law were all in town for the official naming ceremony of the Raj Kapoor Crescent — a new street in a city on Toronto's outskirts known for its large South Asian population.
‘Be part of India's growth story’
Washington, June 24 A US India trade group has called on American policymakers to strengthen trade relations with India or face the risk of being left behind in sharing the fruits of India's growth story.
‘India to be world's second largest trader’
Washington, June 24 In less than 40 years India will overtake the US as the world's second-largest trading nation, pushing today's superpower into third place and Europe in to the little leagues, according to a new report by Citigroup.
1 mn to be enrolled per day for UID
Bangalore, June 24 A whopping one million Indians will be enrolled each day by October for issuing unique identification number (UID) under the Aadhar scheme to cover about 60 percent of the population by 2014, a top official said on Thursday.
Punjab to set up panel for NRIs
Chandigarh, June 24 The Punjab government has approved the setting up of a four-member state commission for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) to protect their interests in the state, officials said on Friday.
Welfare scheme for NRKs
Thiruvananthapuram, June 24 Now, Non-Resident Keralites (NRKs) who return home jobless will be provided assistance for education, marriage, maternity besides money for performing funeral rites, Kerala Governor R.S. Gavai announced on Friday.
Goa tourist hubs on your mobile phone
Panaji, June 24 If you are planning that trip to Goa, you can soon quit browsing through bulky travel guides. Now, all the information on the state's beaches, heritage sites and religious sites will be available on your mobile phones.
Top French honour for Indian economist
Mumbai, June 24 Renowned economist and Planning Commission member Narendra Jadhav has been honoured with the 'Commander dans l'Ordre des Palmes Academiques' (Commander of the Order of Academic Palms) award — one of the oldest French civil distinctions, a statement said on Friday.
IIDEM opens doors to Kenyans
New Delhi, June 23 The newly established Indian Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIDEM) will be sharing India's experience of conducting elections for six decades with its very first batch of students: election officials from Kenya.
Kashmir reverberates with summer tourists
Srinagar, June 23 Thanks to the prevailing peace this summer, Kashmir Valley is once again the vaunted paradise on earth, overflowing with tourists who have snapped up every possible airline seat and accommodation in hotels, guest houses, houseboats, tourist huts and lodges. The arrivals for the year could touch a staggering one million, an official said.
India-US to have economic dialogue
Washington, June 23 Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee and the U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner will lead a high-level economic dialogue here next week aimed at seeking to tap vast opportunities offered by one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.
India, US to fast track treaty talks
Washington, June 23 India and the U.S. have agreed to fast track technical negotiations for an early conclusion of a bilateral investment agreement to take advantage of the vast untapped trade potential between the two countries.
Krishna wraps up Myanmar engagement
Yangon, June 23 India on Wednesday wrapped up its first high-level engagement with Myanmar's new civilian government after signing a slew of bilateral agreements focusing on capacity building, even as a top official met the country's democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi.
Indians invested $43.92 bn overseas
Mumbai, June 23 Foreign direct investment outflow from India more than doubled to $43.92 billion in 2010-11 as compared to $17.98 billion in the previous year on the back of increased loan and guarantee issued by Indian firms, official data showed.
Bollywood stars cast spell on Toronto
Toronto, June 23 Bollywood cast its spell on Toronto and the city's landmark 'Raja' York Hotel looked like an extension of any Indian hotel as scores of stars streamed in for the 12th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards on June 25.
Another memorial for Kanishka victims
Toronto, June 23 Canada will unveil another memorial to the 1985 Air Indian Kanishka bombing victims on Thursday — the 26th anniversary of the tragedy.
Experts script design principles for India
New Delhi, June 22 A nine-member panel of experts under the aegis of the National Institute of Design (NID) has prepared guidelines to help designers and manufacturers tool their wares to suit the Indian social landscape and open wider marketing avenues.
India donates $10 mn to Myanmar
Nay Pyi Taw/Yangon, June 22 India made its first official contact with the new civilian government in Myanmar Tuesday with visiting External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna pledging $10-million to enable capacity-building in agriculture and dedicating 10 disaster-proof rice silos to ensure people have enough to eat during cyclones and floods.
US, Japan for dialogue with India
Washington, June 22 Welcoming India 'as a strong and enduring Asia-Pacific partner', the U.S. and Japan have said they would promote a trilateral dialogue among the three nations.
Piracy: India ready to join efforts
United Nations, June 22 India has expressed readiness to join any international efforts to tackle the threat of piracy and armed robbery at sea and in safety and release of hostages taken by pirates.
PM mourns death of noted economist
New Delhi, June 21 Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Tuesday mourned the death of noted economist Suresh Tendulkar, terming it a 'personal loss'.
Delhi Public School now in Ghana
Accra (Ghana), June 21 An Indian steel manufacturing company in Ghana is spending $10 million to construct an international school under the Delhi Public School (DPS) franchise.
Enjoy a cruise along India's coastline
London, June 21 India, with its 7,000 km long coastline, is all set to introduce cruises along them within a year, an official said.
Bihar turns to organic farming
Patna, June 21 Bihar is turning its attention to popularising and promoting organic farming in the state to usher in a new 'Green Revolution' in agriculture.
US, India bond over children!
New Delhi, June 20 The cooperation between India and the U.S. in education, environment and space programmes spilled over to touch the lives of children in the capital at a four-day summer camp, 'Summer Kydzone,' at the American Center, which began on Monday.
US-India business conclave to boost ties
Washington, June 20 Leading Indian and the U.S. business leaders are set to meet here this week to take stock of the US-India commercial relationship and calibrate a fresh course for progress for decades to come.
Tyeb Mehta's 'Kali' sells for Rs.5.72 cr
New Delhi, June 20 Tyeb Mehta's untitled painting of Hindu deity Kali set a price precedent at an auction by Saffronart, India's biggest online art trading forum, selling for Rs.5.72 crore ($1.31 million) over the weekend, the auction house said on Monday.
Indian ethnic art show attract London visitors
New Delhi, June 20 An exhibition of Warli folk art, an ethnic art form from Maharashtra, is pulling visitors at the Nehru Centre in London.
'Raj Kapoor martini' mark IIFA in Toronto
Toronto, June 20 Toronto's historic Fairmont Royal York Hotel has gone Indian for the 12th International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards beginning here on June 23.
Global meet of Non-Resident Biharis next year
Patna, June 19 Hundreds of Non-Resident Biharis (NRBs) from across the world will gather here early next year to share their views on the state and its development, officials said Sunday.
Kolkata Metro turns towards massive expansion
Kolkata, June 19 Twenty-seven years after it blazed a trail in India, in a city known for its dense crowds and traffic snarls, the Kolkata Metro had over time paled in comparison to its Delhi counterpart. But the city's Metro network is now set to see a four-fold expansion — with some snazzy additions.
India set to grow at 8.2 pc: IMF
Washington, June 17 Keeping its predictions for India's growth unchanged at 8.2 percent this year and 7.8 percent in 2012, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) says global activity is slowing down temporarily and downside risks have increased again.
2 Indian firms win clean energy awards
New Delhi, June 17 Two Indian companies specializing in alternative energy sources for rural electrification have won this year's prestigious Ashden Awards for Sustainable Energy in London.
RBI monetary policy reviewed
Mumbai, June 17 Auto and home loans are set to get costlier as India's central bank on Thursday hiked short term lending rates by 25 basis points in a bid to curb inflation and indicated that more such increases were in the offing.
India to aid Ethiopia
Addis Ababa, June 17 India will provide technical assistance to Ethiopia on implementation of a WTO compliant customs valuation system in the east African country, where weaknesses in tax collection are hampering economic development.
Indian donates $1.5 mn to Canadian varsity
Ottawa, June 17 Hyderabad-born Indian-Canadian techie Sreedhar Natarajan has announced to donate $1.5 million to the Canada-India Centre for Excellence in Science, Technology, Trade and Policy at Carleton University based in Ottawa.
Vivek Kundra to leave White House
Washington, June 17 US President Barack Obama's tech guru Vivek Kundra, who spearheaded his administration's effort to streamline the federal government's massive IT infrastructure is leaving in August for a fellowship at Harvard.
Upma dish wins PIO top prize
Washington, June 17 Indian-American chef Floyd Cardoz, the man behind New York's now-closed Danny Meyer Indian restaurant Tabla, has taken home the $100,000 top prize in the third season of Top Chef Masters with a simple upma dish.
Job portal launched for NRIs
New Delhi, June 16 Online job portal Monster.com Thursday announced the launch of its new website — Return2Home — targeting NRIs seeking jobs in India.
Toronto to see largest galaxy of Bollywood stars
Toronto, June 16 With more than half a million people of Indian origin in its population, Canada's largest city will see the biggest gathering of Bollywood stars on North American soil to honour its best films and stars for the 12th Indian International Film Academy (IIFA) Weekend and Awards to be held from June 23-25.
Indian gets Togo's highest civilian award
New Delhi, June 16 The republic of Togo in western Africa has bestowed its highest civilian award to an Indian national, Chander Verma, the country's former honorary consul in India.
Slovenian PM seeks investments from India
Bangalore, June 15 Slovenian Prime Minister Borut Pahor on Wednesday urged Indian companies and entrepreneurs to explore investment opportunities in his central European country.
India eyes larger regional role with SCO
New Delhi, June 15 As the 10th summit of the China and Russia-dominated Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) began in Kazakh capital Astana on Wednesday, India is looking for full membership in the Central Asian grouping as it sees a larger role for itself in the strategically important Eurasian region.
PIO to lead MIT's largest department
Washington, June 14 Indian American Anantha P. Chandrakasan has been named the new leader of the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology's (MIT) largest academic department
Families seek return of Punjabi youths traced in Africa
Jalandhar (Punjab), June 16 'The travel agents told us that my son had died... but he is alive in Africa...I don't know what to do,' wailed Joginder Kaur, whose son Gurpreet is among the 35 Punjabi youths who went missing on their way to Spain in 2004.
2 Super Hercules planes on way to India
Washington, June 17 Donning Indian Air Force colours, the third and fourth of six C-130J Super Hercules planes acquired by India in a $950 million deal have left for their new home, Air Force Station Hindon, outside New Delhi.
Canada needs India: Scotiabank deputy
Toronto, June 16 The topmost Indo-Canadian business honcho has urged Canadian companies to develop a concrete 'India strategy' to do business in the world's second fastest growing economy.
Cartoon exhibition opens in Delhi
New Delhi, June 14 Defying the age-old cliché of associating cartoons with just laughs and humour, an exhibition of comics focusing on the serious social issues like poverty, prostitution and racism has opened in the capital.
Indian firms voluntarily running welfare programmes
New Delhi, June 14 Over 1,500 private companies in India are running various social welfare programmes voluntarily as a part of the affirmative action plan to help the weaker sections of the society, an official statement said on Tuesday.
India to set up 5 PIO universities
Toronto, June 13 The Indian government will set up five PIO universities in the country to cater to the diaspora students of Indian origin.
New Zealand PM to visit India
Wellington, June 13 New Zealand Prime Minister John Key will lead a 25-member delegation to India this month to further develop the 'already strong relationship' and boost bilateral trade, the New Zealand government said on Monday.
Boom in telecom industry to continue
New Delhi, June 12 Revenues of the Indian telecom industry, that includes telecommunication services and handset markets, is likely to reach Rs. 2,88,832 crore or $63 billion in 2012, registering an annual growth of nearly 17 percent, an industry study revealed.
PBD: 3-P mantra for diaspora
Toronto, June 11 India on Friday promised to remove irritants hindering the engagement of its 27 million-strong global diaspora with their parent country.
India asks diaspora to become partners
Toronto, June 10 Calling the Indian diaspora its bridge of friendship to the world, India on Thursday invited the million-strong Indo-Canadian community to become a part of its success story.
PBD: 10-year visas for Indians
Toronto, June 10 In a significant gesture, Canada on Thursday announced a 10-year multiple entry visa for Indians.
India's forex reserves soar $2.69 bn
Mumbai, June 11 India's foreign exchange (forex) reserves soared by $2.69 billion to $312.90 billion for the week ended June 3 on the back of a sharp increase in the value of gold reserves and foreign currency assets.
Plan panel hints at 9-9.5 pc growth
Bangalore, June 11 The Planning Commission is set to target GDP growth of 9-9.5 percent for the 12th Five Year Plan (2012-17) period as 10 percent growth does not seem feasible, its Deputy Chairman, Montek Singh Ahluwalia, said on Friday.
India's exports jump $26 bn
New Delhi, June 10 India's exports surged to all-time monthly high of $25.9 billion in May, registering a growth of 56.9 percent year-on-year on the back of a sharp jump in the exports of engineering, electronics and petroleum products, Commerce Secretary Rahul Khullar said on Friday.
US lauds India's model of engaging Africa
Washington, June 10 The U.S. has lauded India's model of encouraging growth in Africa as the two countries gear up to collaborate in the 53-nation continent's agricultural sector.
Indian dancer set for 'confrontation' with French jazz
New Delhi, June 11 When veena exponent and Bharatanatyam dancer Raghunath Manet performs with French jazz maestro Didier Lockwood for 70 days in a staggered concert in Paris this fall, he wants East to meet West — as a 'confrontation' not as 'fusion'.
Preneet Kaur to lead India at PBD
Toronto, June 9 Preneet Kaur, Minister of State for External Affairs, will represent the Indian government at this week's mini Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) here on Thursday. Earlier, Vayalar Ravi, Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs and Civil Aviation, was scheduled to address the two-day diaspora gathering.
India successfully tests Prithvi-II
Bhubaneswar, June 9 India on Thursday successfully test-fired its nuclear-capable Prithvi II missile from a military base in Orissa, defence sources said.
5,000 visas issued on arrival till May
New Delhi, June 8 India has issued over 5,000 visas on arrival to foreigners from 11 countries till May this year, the Tourism Ministry said here on Wednesday.
India's growth story robust: FM
New Delhi, June 9 Amid apprehensions of a slowdown in the economy, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee heads to Washington later this month to meet industry leaders and assure them that the country's growth prospects are robust.
PIOs, Indians asked to leave Yemen
New Delhi, June 8 With more people getting killed in clashes in Yemen, India Tuesday renewed its appeal to its nationals and persons of Indian origin (PIOs) to leave the Arab country urgently and reminded them to avail of the Indian embassy's helplines which have been used by barely a dozen people so far.
India third largest investment destination for renewables
New Delhi, June 8 India is the third most favoured destination globally for investments in the renewable energy sector and will also be a major source of new entrants into the sector, behind the U.S. and China, according to a survey released on Wednesday by global consulting firm KPMG.
Boeing deal reflects growing military ties with India: US
Washington, June 8 The United States has described India's proposed purchase of 10 Boeing C-17 Globemaster heavy-lift transport aircraft in a $4.1 billion deal as indicative of growing military and humanitarian ties between the two countries.
India to host ASEM forum in 2013
New Delhi, June 7 In a step that indicates its increased global role, India on Tuesday said it would host the meeting of foreign ministers of the 46-nation Asia-Europe (ASEM) forum in 2013. It also announced its decision to hike its financial contribution to the inter-regional forum.
India evokes curiosity at Venice exhibit
New Delhi, June 6 India has started to make Venice curious. A small number of visitors is trickling into the India pavilion at the 54th edition of the prestigious art exhibition Venice Biennale, which opened to the public June 4.
Indian American spreads sacred music's peace message
Washington, June 5 From the ancient Moroccan city of Fez, an Indian American cultural and social entrepreneur is spreading the message of peace wafting from the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music.
Indian wins magicians' 'Oscar'
New Delhi, June 4 Illusionist Gopinath Muthukad became the second Indian ever to win the International Merlin Award, or the magicians' 'Oscar'.
India-Japan economic pact by August
Kolkata, June 3 The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and Japan will be signed on August 1 if all goes well, Japanese Ambassador Akitaka Saiki said on Friday.
Tourist inflow up by 7 percent
New Delhi, June 3 Nearly 369,000 tourists came to India in the month of May, an increase of about seven percent from the same period last year, a government release said Friday.
Film on Mohiniyattam to premiere in Hollywood
New Delhi, June 3 A 78-minute documentary feature film encapsulating the craft and lives of mother-daughter Mohiniyattam exponents, Bharati Shivaji and daughter Vijayalakshmi, will be premiered in Hollywood next week.
Indians give environment edge over economy
Washington, June 4 One of the world's fastest growing economies, India is also trying to become a green economy, according to a new poll showing Indians narrowly prioritise environmental protection over economic growth.
WB to study Delhi's waste-to-energy plant
New Delhi, June 3 The waste-to-energy plant coming up in Delhi has been chosen by the World Bank for a case study, an official said on Friday.
Bank of Baroda expands in Africa
Kampala, June 2 The state-run Bank of Baroda (BOB), which calls itself India's international bank, Thursday opened its 11th branch in Uganda as part of its renewed focus on the African continent.
Sukanya Roy is US spelling bee
Washington, June 3 Spelling tongue twister 'cymotrichous', Greek for having wavy hair, Indian American Sukanya Roy has won the 2011 Scripps National Spelling Bee crown to retain the coveted honour for the community for the fourth year in a row.
IITian's gift for India centre in Canada
Toronto, June 2 Toronto-based IITian Vasudev Chanchlani has given a million dollars to help start an Indian policy centre at a Canadian university.
Oz reports sharp fall in Indian students
Melbourne, June 2 Australian universities and vocational training providers are in serious worry mode. More dismal international student enrolment figures are coming out, with the number of Indians in particular reporting a sharp fall.
Bosch to invest more in India
Bangalore, June 2 A record 40 percent growth in net sales in 2010 and brighter opportunities in the resilient Indian market have prompted global automotive major Bosch to Thursday announce fresh investments of Rs.2,500 crore ($560 million) in India during the next two years.
Indian origin artist goes to Venice Biennale
New Delhi, June 2 India-born London-based artist Nandita Chaudhuri has captured the horrors of the Japan tsunami and the psychological drift it has triggered among the millions of survivors on her canvas at the Venice Biennale 2011 this month. Chaudhuri is the only Indian to be directly selected by Venice biennale organisers as part of its international representation though India is an official entrant at the event. She will be represented by Studio ArTe Carapostol.
Indian-origin led team makes formula against mosquitoes
London, June 2 Mosquito bites could soon become a fading memory, thanks to a chemical cocktail made by a team led by an Indian-origin scientist to buzz off the pesky insects.
Google India launches new tool for SMBs
Kochi, June 1 Google India on Wednesday launched Google Global Market Finder — a free online tool designed to help Indian companies expand their business and reach out to potential customers in the international market.
IGNOU signs MoUs with Chinese varsities
New Delhi, June 2 The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with three Chinese universities, an official said Thursday.
Canada-India summit at Ottawa
Toronto, June 1 India and Canada will break yet another milestone in their burgeoning ties as they hold the first Canada-India Innovation Summit June 20-21.
India, Germany talk UN reforms, trade
New Delhi, June 1 Determined to expand their strategic relations, India and Germany pledged to step up their campaign for radical UN reforms while agreeing that terrorism cannot be fought selectively.
Indian to lead UN change management team
United Nations, June 1 UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has named Atul Khare of India to spearhead efforts to implement a reform agenda aimed at streamlining and improving the efficiency of the world body.
Exports up 34 percent in April
New Delhi, June 1 India's exports rose 34.4 percent in April to $23.9 billion, while the trade deficit narrowed to $8.9 billion compared to the like period in 2010, according to official data released on Wednesday.
Afghan defence minister to visit India
New Delhi, May 31 Afghan Defence Minister General Abdul Rahim Wardak will be on a three-day visit to India from Wednesday to explore opportunities for expanding bilateral military ties, particularly capacity building of his nation's army.
India's economy grew 8.5 pc
New Delhi, May 31 The Indian economy grew by 8.5 percent in 2010-11, around 10 basis points below earlier projections, due to lower expansions in factory output and financial services in the fourth quarter, official data showed on Tuesday. The advance estimates released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) earlier had pegged the gross domestic product (GDP) growth at 8.6 percent. But the estimate had to be lowered, as the fourth quarter growth was just 7.8 percent.
5 Indian ministers at mini-PBD
Toronto, May 31 Canadian Governor General David Johnston will join Vayalar Ravi, Overseas Indian Affairs Minister, and his four cabinet colleagues in welcoming the Indian diaspora to the mini Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) here next week.
India to help Egypt enhance trade
New Delhi, May 30 India on Monday pledged full support to Egypt in its reconstruction efforts, including in the process of holding elections, as the two countries resolved to scale up their trade and investment.
States should help boost tourism growth: Sibal
New Delhi, May 31 State governments should actively participate in and frame legislation to make the tourism and hospitality sector more vibrant and growth oriented, Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal said on Tuesday.
Ghana aims to be IT hub - with India's help
Accra, May 30 Inspired and aided by India, the Ghanaian government is taking measures to make information technology (IT) a key driver of its economy and transform the country into the IT hub of West Africa.
‘Africa key to solution of global problems’
On Board Air India One, May 28 Returning from a six-day visit to Ethiopia and Tanzania, Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Saturday underlined that Africa held the key to a host of global problems like food crunch, and exhorted the world to work with the continent to create a more equitable, balanced and inclusive process of development.
India taps IT power to woo Africa
Dar es Salaam, May 28 India is reaching out to African youth here by offering to make Tanzania a 'communication and IT hub of East Africa' and has unfurled new possibilities of cooperation in key high-tech areas like space cooperation.
India asks Africa to fight piracy
Addis Ababa, May 27 Giving a contemporary and strategic cast to India's growing relationship with Africa, Dr. Manmohan Singh, in the first address by an Indian prime minister to the Ethiopian parliament, on Thursday pushed for democratic change in the continent and made a strong pitch for joint fight against piracy and terrorism under the aegis of the United Nations.
Building 'bridges of friendship' in Tanzania
Dar es Salaam, May 27 Paying tribute to the achievements of around 40,000 persons of Indian origin and Indian businessmen in Tanzania, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh lauded their 'entrepreneurial spirit' and said they were 'a bridge of friendship' with this East African nation that an Indian prime minister was visiting after 14 years.
India to open hospital in Tanzania
Dar es Salaam, May 27 It's a heart-to-heart affair. With more Tanzanians suffering from a variety of heart ailments and travelling abroad for treatment, India's Apollo Hospitals Friday struck a pact to set up a 300-bed super-specialty hospital in this coastal metropolis of East Africa's largest country. Apollo Hospitals Enterprises Limited, in the presence of Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, signed a preliminary joint venture agreement with the Board of Trustees of Tanzania's National Social Security Fund and the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare for setting up the hospital.
Indians advised to leave Yemen
New Delhi, May 27 India has asked its nationals to leave Yemen at the earliest following mounting violence between security forces and those ranged against long-time President Ali Abdullah Saleh.
India, US launch internal security dialogue
New Delhi, May 27 India and the U.S. launched their first internal security dialogue here Friday with Home Minister P. Chidambaram and his American counterpart Janet Napolitano deliberating stepped up counter-terror cooperation, an official said.
Egyptian foreign minister to visit India
New Delhi, May 27 In the first high-level visit from Egypt after the revolution, Egyptian Foreign Minister Nabil Elaraby begins a three-day visit Saturday, during which he will hold talks with his counterpart, S.M. Krishna, and meet other members of the Indian establishment, including Vice President Hamid Ansari.
India, Afghanistan ink culture pact
New Delhi, May 27 India and Afghanistan have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to promote the arts and cultural heritage of Afghanistan.
Dubai seeks to boost ties with Gujarat
Dubai, May 26 A business delegation from the Indian state of Gujarat was in Dubai to explore opportunities to boost trade and investments in the UAE.
India Show in Canada to showcase engineering power
Toronto, May 28 India will display its engineering and technological prowess here in October as part of ongoing celebrations of the 'Year of India in Canada'.
Indo-German dialogue during Merkel visit
New Delhi, May 27 German Chancellor Angela Merkel will be in India on a two-day visit beginning on May 31, when the two countries will hold their first inter-governmental consultation on defence, science and technology, energy, and capacity building and sign bilateral agreements.
Tata Motors' global sales grow 24.2 pc
Kolkata, May 26 Tata Motors Group Thursday reported that its global wholesale volumes for fiscal 2010-11, including Jaguar Land Rover, stood at 1,080,994 units, representing a growth of 24.2 percent as compared to the previous financial year.
Google to offer street view of India
Bangalore, May 26 Global Internet search engine Google on Thursday announced plans to offer street view of Indian cities on its maps platform.
104 more peaks to open in Leh
New Delhi, May 27 With a special focus on development of adventure tourism in the country, the Indian government has given security clearance for opening an additional 104 peaks in Jammu and Kashmir's Leh region, an official said on Friday.
India to attract more adventure tourists
New Delhi, May 27 India has stepped up efforts to position itself as an adventure tourism destination and is offering travellers a bouquet of experiences, from mountaineering to camping, rock climbing and river rafting.
Manuscript inscribed on Unesco's register
New Delhi, May 26 An illustrated Indian manuscript recounting the history of Mughal ancestor Timur has been inscribed on Unesco's Memory of the World Register, an official said on Thursday.
Tyeb Mehta, Souza lead Christie's auction
New Delhi, May 26 The early masters of Indian contemporary art and the progressive group of artists like Tyeb Mehta, F.N. Souza and Akbar Padamsee are high on the auction stakes at the Christie's sale of South Asian Modern and Contemporary Art in London June 9.
On Africa Day, India pledges $5.7 bn
Addis Ababa, May 25 India on Wednesday announced a $5.7 billion gift package for Africa as part of its growing engagement with the 53-nation continent as the curtains came down on the 2nd Africa-India Summit here on Wednesday with both sides pledging full support for each other's resurgence.
For India, it's time for Africa
Addis Ababa, May 25 Following are what Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh said were 'initiatives' that India was prepared to take as part of its 'emerging partnership' with Africa, a region that he said was poised to become a 'major growth pole for the world economy':
IGNOU to power India-Africa Virtual University
New Delhi, May 25 The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) on Wednesday announced details of a virtual university for Africa, a day after Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh promised such an institution at a summit in Addis Ababa.
India, US to begin internal security dialogue
New Delhi, May 25 Terror will top the agenda when the U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and Home Minister P. Chidambaram meet Friday for the first formal dialogue on internal security between the two countries.
Coal India's net profit up by 12.94 pc
Kolkata, May 25 Coal India Limited (CIL), a Maharatna public sector undertaking, on Wednesday announced that it has posted a profit after tax (PAT) of Rs.10,867.32 crore last fiscal compared to Rs.9,622.45 crore during FY10, registering an increase of 12.94 percent.
Bharti Walmart launches global money transfer service
New Delhi, May 24 Bharti Walmart, global retail firm Walmart's joint venture with Bharti Enterprises in India, Tuesday launched a global money transfer service in its stores across India in association with Thomas Cook India, a principal agent of MoneyGram International.
Solar power can meet up to 7 pc of India's energy needs
New Delhi, May 24 Solar power can meet 5-7 percent of India's total power requirements by 2021-22 compared to its current almost negligible contribution, reducing coal requirements by almost 30 percent, global consulting and advisory firm KPMG said in a report released on Tuesday.
PM heads for Ethiopia
Addis Ababa, May 23 Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh touches down in Ethiopia on Monday for his second summit with African leaders that will bolster India's development-centric partnership and unveil fresh aid, trade concessions and training institutes for Africa against the backdrop of China's surging influence in the continent. It will be a week of high-wire Africa diplomacy as Manmohan Singh will not only co-chair the second India-Africa Forum Summit beginning Tuesday, but also hold bilateral meetings with over half a dozen leaders from African countries.
India, Africa trade to touch $70 bn
New Delhi, May 23 Trade between India and Africa will touch $70 billion by 2015 even as the South Asian economic giant has become a leading investor in the continent with an investment of $33 billion till date, Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma said here on Friday.
India to invest $4.78 bn in Ethiopia
Addis Ababa, May 23 India has offered to invest $4.78 billion in various projects in Ethiopia over the next few years, of which nearly $1 billion is already on ground or in the pipeline, Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma said on Saturday.
Ethiopia seeks more Indian teachers
Addis Ababa, May 23 Ethiopia, one of Africa's emerging economies, is seeking more teachers and agriculturists from India to help it leapfrog into a knowledge economy and food-sufficient nation.
‘India will become fastest growing economy’
New Delhi, May 23 Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Sunday said India will soon become the fastest growing economy, having expanded admirably in the past few years despite the difficult global situation.
Waste-to-energy plant generates heat
New Delhi, May 22 India's first waste-to-energy plant, touted as an answer to the waste and electricity woes of the capital, will start operations from July. But people living near the site are up in arms over the Rs.200 crore project's high environmental and health costs. The Timarpur Okhla Municipal Solid Waste Management plant is a private-public partnership project of the Jindal ITF Ecoplis and Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD).
‘Mega satellite to boost aviation’
New Delhi/Bangalore, May 21 India's aviation-based navigation capabilities were boosted Saturday with the launch of Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) mega geostationary satellite GSAT-8 from the South American state of French Guiana, said a senior official.
India to be guest country at WIC
Brussels, May 21 India and Morocco are the two guest countries at the 9th World Investment Conference to be held in La Baule, France May 25-27.
Maharashtra to get world's biggest solar power station
Dhule (Maharashtra), May 21 A 150-MW solar power plant, said to be the world's largest, will come up in Maharashtra's Dhule district at a cost of Rs.1,987 crore, Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan said on Friday.
Indo-Canadian honcho dons army fatigues
Toronto, May 21 In a first for the million-strong community, a top Indo-Canadian honcho has donned military fatigues by joining the Canadian armed forces as an honorary lieutenant colonel. Hari Panday, who launched ICICI Bank in Canada eight years ago and currently heads PanVest Capital Corporation, has already undergone tough training with the Canadian armed forces as part of his new role.
Another Indian boy in Ang Lee's 'Life of Pi'
Mumbai, May 21 He has taken a big leap, straight into Hollywood. Ayush Tandon, 12, stars as the child version of protagonist 'Pi' Patel in director Ang Lee's new film even as another Indian boy plays his teenaged avatar.
India Dubai's biggest trade partner
Dubai, May 20 India was Dubai's main import, export and re-export trading partner for the first two months of 2011, while the emirate's non-petroleum direct international trade shot up 31 percent to 113 billion dirhams ($30 billion) compared to 86 billion dirhams in the same period last year.
India added 11.11 mn GSM subscribers
New Delhi, May 19 India's GSM subscriber base grew by 1.95 percent in April with the addition of 11.11 million mobile phone users, of which Bharti Airtel alone signed up over 2.41 million customers.
Two Sikhs become ministers in Canada
Toronto, May 19 Two Sikhs were named to the new Canadian cabinet announced on Wednesday.
French major set to enter Indian gas sector
Chennai, May 19 Foraying into the Indian cryogenic gas sector, French major Cryolor SA will inaugurate its facility here Friday, said a top company official.
Vikram Pandit gets a $22.5 mn package
Washington, May 19 After working for years for a token annual salary of $1, Citigroup's Indian American CEO, Vikram Pandit has received a $22.5 million retention package that's partly tied to the future performance of the banking giant. 'Vikram has done an outstanding job since coming on board as the financial crisis began,' Citigroup chairman Richard Parsons said in a statement Wednesday. 'Under his leadership, the management team has navigated Citi through the crisis, returned Citi to profitability and is executing a strategy for sustainable growth.
PM to visit Ethiopia, Tanzania
New Delhi, May 18 Enhancing economic ties will be on top of the agenda when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh makes bilateral visits to Ethiopia and Tanzania next week. The prime minister will begin his two-nation Africa tour on May 23 in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, where he will first participate in the second India-Africa summit.
‘Africa looks at India with pride’
Accra (Ghana), May 18 African countries need to look at India 'with pride because of what it has been able to achieve with its can do spirit', Ghana's former president John Agyekum Kufuor said ahead of the second India Africa Summit in Addis Ababa later this month.
Vayalar Ravi meets diaspora youth
New Delhi, May 16 Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi on Monday met a group of 24 diaspora youth participating in 17th Know India Programme (KIP), intended to promote awareness on the different facets of life in India and the progress made by the country in various fields.
India, US discuss homeland security dialogue
New Delhi, May 17 A senior U.S. official called up India's Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao Tuesday to discuss the forthcoming India-US homeland security dialogue, even as a trial on the November 2008 Mumbai terror attack has begun in the US.
India pledges $125,000 for climate services
Geneva, May 17 India will grant $125,000 to support Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS) for improving projections on climate change and their impact on various socio-economic sectors, Science and Technology Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal said on Monday.
India calls for equitable access to energy
Helsinki, May 17 India on Tuesday made a strong call for equity and universal energy access by the year 2030 for all.
TiE turning immigrants into millionaires
Toronto, May 18 The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) in Canada is making its mark by turning struggling Indian immigrants into successful entrepreneurs.
India, emerging economies to make for half of global growth
Washington, May 17 By 2025, India and five other major emerging economies — Brazil, China, Indonesia, South Korea, and Russia — will account for more than half of all global growth, a new World Bank report says.
FTA with Asean to open up bigger prospects
New Delhi, May 15 The India-Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will open up a host of business opportunities for Indian industry, especially in the construction sector, says a study.
Indian tax board to open eight overseas offices
Chandigarh, May 17 In a bid to keep a tab on cross-border money transactions and to curb cases of tax evasions, India's Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) is all set to open its offices in eight other countries, its chairman said on Tuesday.
Indian travellers to boost aviation, hospitality industry
New Delhi, May 14 With around 9 million Indian travellers all set to travel around the country and abroad this holiday season, the country's aviation and hospitality sector are expecting increased profits, says a report by an industry chamber.
US hails Indian efforts to rebuild Afghanistan
Washington, May 14 Taking note of India's 'enhanced position as a regional leader' the United States has welcomed New Delhi's boost in aid to Kabul and strong support to international efforts to rebuild a stable Afghanistan.
Orissa sculptor wins prize in Moscow
Bhubaneswar, May 15 Orissa-based sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik's sculpture of Mona Lisa, won the people's choice prize at the 3rd Moscow World Sand Sculpture Championship in Russia.
'Africa welcomes Indian enterprise'
Addis Ababa, May 12 With Indian firms having invested over $25 billion in Africa, the continent looks forward to furthering ties with India that date back to more than two millennia, a top Ethiopian leader said here.
ICWA signs pacts with African institutions
Addis Ababa, May 12 The Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA), a think tank of the External Affairs Ministry, has signed pacts with three key African bodies as part of New Delhi's focus on finding innovative ways to engage better with the 53-nation African continent.
Kenya wants Indian cooperation
New Delhi, May 13 Kenya, which is suffering due to piracy emanating in Somalia with which it shares a 680-km long, porous border in east Africa, is keen on greater regional cooperation with India, says a senior strategic affairs expert.
India, Oz to double trade in 4 years
New Delhi, May 12 India and Australia on Thursday agreed to double trade to $40 billion over next four years and said negotiations for a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) would be expedited.
India's April exports rose 34 pc
New Delhi, May 13 India's exports in April grew at a strong 34.4 percent at $23.9 billion, while the trade deficit for the month stood at $8.9 billion, a top official of the Commerce and Industry Ministry said on Thursday.
India-Thailand trade expected to go up to $10 bn
Kolkata, May 12 Bilateral trade between India and Thailand is expected to go up to $10 billion by 2012, a Thai envoy here said on Thursday.
US, India think tanks form joint group
Washington, May 12 Two US and Indian think tanks, the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) and the Aspen Institute India, have announced the formation of the US-India Joint Group on shared national interests.
'US committed to bringing 26/11 attackers to justice'
Washington, May 12 As a US lawmaker suggested that the Pakistan-based Haqqani terror network may have had some 'logistical role' behind bombings in India, the U.S. reassured New Delhi it was committed to bringing Mumbai attackers to justice.
Deepak Obhrai may be named to Canadian cabinet
Toronto, May 12 With Indo-Canadians voting for the ruling Conservative Party in large numbers in this month's parliament elections, speculation has begun whether any Indian-origin MP will make it to the Canadian cabinet this time.
Kerala Tourism promo wins award
Thiruvananthapuram, May 12 'Your Moment Is Waiting', the latest advertisement of Kerala's tourism promotion department, has won an award at the prestigious New York Festivals, an official said.
Tagore's birth anniversary celebrated at IGNOU
New Delhi, May 12 The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) celebrated the 150th birth anniversary of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore with a day-long programme which included panel discussions and theatrical performances, a varsity official said on Thursday.
Indian to co-curate European show at Venice Biennale
New Delhi, May 12 Indian art curator Shwetal Ashvin Patel is co-curating a crucial inaugural exhibition along with a senior Milan-based curator at the 54th Venice Biennale June 3-November 27.
'Africa welcomes Indian enterprise'
Addis Ababa, May 12 With Indian firms having invested over $25 billion in Africa, the continent looks forward to furthering ties with India that date back to more than two millennia, a top Ethiopian leader said here.
ICWA signs pacts with African institutions
Addis Ababa, May 12 The Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA), a think tank of the External Affairs Ministry, has signed pacts with three key African bodies as part of New Delhi's focus on finding innovative ways to engage better with the 53-nation African continent.
Kenya wants Indian cooperation
New Delhi, May 13 Kenya, which is suffering due to piracy emanating in Somalia with which it shares a 680-km long, porous border in east Africa, is keen on greater regional cooperation with India, says a senior strategic affairs expert.
India, Oz to double trade in 4 years
New Delhi, May 12 India and Australia on Thursday agreed to double trade to $40 billion over next four years and said negotiations for a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) would be expedited.
India's April exports rose 34 pc
New Delhi, May 13 India's exports in April grew at a strong 34.4 percent at $23.9 billion, while the trade deficit for the month stood at $8.9 billion, a top official of the Commerce and Industry Ministry said on Thursday.
India-Thailand trade expected to go up to $10 bn
Kolkata, May 12 Bilateral trade between India and Thailand is expected to go up to $10 billion by 2012, a Thai envoy here said on Thursday.
US, India think tanks form joint group
Washington, May 12 Two US and Indian think tanks, the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) and the Aspen Institute India, have announced the formation of the US-India Joint Group on shared national interests.
'US committed to bringing 26/11 attackers to justice'
Washington, May 12 As a US lawmaker suggested that the Pakistan-based Haqqani terror network may have had some 'logistical role' behind bombings in India, the U.S. reassured New Delhi it was committed to bringing Mumbai attackers to justice.
Deepak Obhrai may be named to Canadian cabinet
Toronto, May 12 With Indo-Canadians voting for the ruling Conservative Party in large numbers in this month's parliament elections, speculation has begun whether any Indian-origin MP will make it to the Canadian cabinet this time.
Kerala Tourism promo wins award
Thiruvananthapuram, May 12 'Your Moment Is Waiting', the latest advertisement of Kerala's tourism promotion department, has won an award at the prestigious New York Festivals, an official said.
Tagore's birth anniversary celebrated at IGNOU
New Delhi, May 12 The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) celebrated the 150th birth anniversary of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore with a day-long programme which included panel discussions and theatrical performances, a varsity official said on Thursday.
Indian to co-curate European show at Venice Biennale
New Delhi, May 12 Indian art curator Shwetal Ashvin Patel is co-curating a crucial inaugural exhibition along with a senior Milan-based curator at the 54th Venice Biennale June 3-November 27.
‘India-US trade at $100 bn in 3 yrs’
New Delhi, May 11 Trade between India and the U.S. is expected to grow to $100 billion within two to three years while Indian companies are strengthening their presence in the US across various sectors, a senior Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC) official said on Tuesday.
India-Africa summit: Countdown begins
Addis Ababa, May 11 Ahead of the second summit between India and the African continent, a two-day seminar begins in the Ethiopian capital on Wednesday on how the India-Africa partnership can be mutually beneficial to their growth and development.
FTA with NZ soon: Anand Sharma
New Delhi, May 11 India expects to conclude a free trade agreement (FTA) with New Zealand in a time frame of eight to 10 months, Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma said on Tuesday.
Nooyi, Sanjay among highest paid in US
Washington, May 11 Five Indian Americans, including PepsiCo chief Indra Nooyi and Motorola Mobility's Sanjay Jha, are among the highest paid CEOs in the US, according to a new survey of the 350 biggest U.S. companies.
‘MIB’ director partners with Indian-American firm
Washington, May 11 Liquid Comics, a digital entertainment company founded by three Indian Americans, has entered a publishing and producing partnership with 'Men In Black' director Barry Sonnenfeld and producer Arnold Rifkin. Sonnenfeld, who also directed 'Get Shorty', 'Addams Family', 'Addams Family Values' and 'Pushing Daisies', for which he received an Emmy, will simultaneously develop a graphic novel and film property called, 'Dominion: Dinosaurs Versus Aliens'.
When art becomes science
New Delhi, May 11 Ever heard of Mozart's Effect? Several studies have shown that listening to the composer's music improves certain kind of mental tasks. Now, such positive scientific elements of ancient and classical arts are at the core of a three-day cultural festival.
India trains African officials
New Delhi, May 10 Be it probing economic and cyber crime or new methods of drug law enforcement to food processing and climate change, India is imparting crucial lessons in capacity building and skill development to Africa. About 450 people from Africa have attended courses in these fields at various Indian institutes.
India to empower unemployed youth of Africa
New Delhi, May 8 In a step that will strengthen the growing India-Africa partnership, the National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) of India will build vocational training institutes in 10 African countries to help empower unemployed youth in the continent.
Visva Bharati to be crown jewel in academic world
New Delhi, May 7 Visva Bharati, the university set up by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore in Shantiniketan, will be made one of the crown jewels of Indian academic world, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh said on Saturday.
2,000 Tagore paintings be digitised
Kolkata, May 9 Nearly 2,000 paintings by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore are being digitised and the process is almost complete, secretary in the union Culture Ministry Jawhar Sircar said on Monday. Sircar said the digitised version of Tagore's paintings would come out in four volumes.
NRI trains camera on family ties in US
New Delhi, May 10 Coming from India with its tradition of extended families and close linkages, Anand Alagappan found himself intrigued with relationships in the U.S. and decided to delve deeper into the issue in his directorial debut 'Anything For You' releasing on Friday. The Indian American director, who travelled to the U.S. from Chennai more than a decade ago to do masters in computer science from the University of Texas at Arlington, says he decided to explore what brings the two cultures together.
New satellite beams high quality images
Bangalore, May 9 India's latest advanced remote sensing satellite Resourcesat-2 has beamed high quality images distinctly showing the northern and western regions of the country, the space agency said on Monday.
Environment growth to be evaluated
New Delhi, May 9 India on Monday announced the setting up of a high-level expert group to assess the impact of economic growth on environment.
James Bevan British envoy to India
New Delhi, May 9 James Bevan has been appointed the new British envoy to India, the British High Commission here said on Monday.
Automobile sales jump 23 pc
New Delhi, May 10 Indian automobile industry Monday reported a rise of 23 percent in vehicle sales in April at 1,338,564 units, up from 1,090,041 units in April 2010.
Indian seafood exports soar
Brussels, May 7 Indian seafood exports reached $2.7 billion in 2010-2011 compared to $2.1 billion in the previous fiscal year, officials said. Europe is the leading market for Indian seafood products followed by the United States, China and Japan.
Indian film fest in NY kicks off
New York, May 6 The 11th Annual New York Indian Film Festival kicked off in spectacular fashion with the U.S. premiere of the Delhi-set comedy 'Do Dooni Chaar,' Disney's first live-action Hindi film. The star-studded red carpet premiere on Wednesday night at Manhattan's prestigious Paris Theatre, was attended by special guests Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Singh Kapoor along with writer/director Habib Faisal.
EAM gifts Tagore bust to Singapore
Singapore, May 6 Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna on Thursday handed over a bust of Rabindranath Tagore to be housed in Singapore's India Heritage Centre to mark the 150th birth anniversary of the Nobel Laureate.
Indian doctors give 250 kg Tanzanian new lease of life
New Delhi, May 6 For Stelios Tsihlas, 44, life was restricted to a specially-made battery operated wheelchair as that was the Tanzanian businessman's only way to move around. He could not walk beyond 10 steps because of his massive 250 kg weight.
Tagore's short stories come alive on canvas
New Delhi, May 6 Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore's short stories stand out for their rich visual imagery and emotional colours. Now, a group of nine senior Kolkata-based artists have brought these to the canvas at an exposition here. The showcase, 'Tales from Tagore', dwells on the characters, messages and sharp turns of physical and emotional realities inherent in Tagore's short stories, said Vikram Bachhawat, auctioneer and director of Aakriti Art Gallery.
India is 'top priority' for Canada
Toronto, May 5 Deepening bilateral ties with India will be the new Canadian government's 'top priority', says the country’s most senior Indo-Canadian parliamentarian Deepak Obhrai.
India eyes $10bn from biotech by 2015
Bangalore, May 5 India's sunrise biotechnology sector is set to reach $10-billion revenue by 2015 from $4 billion posted in fiscal 2010-11 through innovative products and services, a top state official said on Wednesday.
India among economies driving Asian growth
Hanoi, May 5 India and six other major economies in Asia will drive the region's growth, which, according to current projections, could account for more than half of the global gross domestic product by 2050, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) said in a report released Wednesday.
Tri-Valley head indicted in visa fraud
Washington, May 5 The president of the California-based Tri-Valley University, whose closure affected nearly 1,500 Indian students, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on the allegations of visa fraud and money laundering.
PM condoles demise of Dorjee Khandu
New Delhi, May 5 Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Thursday condoled the death of Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Dorjee Khandu in a helicopter crash, saying the country had lost an experienced and able leader who spent long years in dedicated public service.
Get glimpses of Tagore family fashion, art
New Delhi, May 5 A showcase of the rich sartorial tradition of Rabindranath Tagore's family in Jorasanko and a display of the digital print of his art works will mark celebrations of the 150th birth anniversary of the Nobel Laureate on May 9.
India aims at doubling exports
New Delhi, May 4 India on Tuesday set a target to more than double its merchandise exports to $500 billion in the next three years, banking on the increased demand for Indian engineering, pharma and chemical products in emerging markets.
Highlights of monetary policy
Mumbai, May 4 Following are the highlights of the monetary policy for this fiscal unveiled by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor D. Subbarao on Tuesday:
India, Malaysia to expedite deals
Kuala Lumpur, May 4 India and Malaysia have agreed to expedite talks on finalising a double taxation avoidance agreement, and also hoped for early completion of the India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement in Services and Investment, Indian External Affairs minister S.M. Krishna said here on Tuesday.
India, Israel to cooperate in research
New Delhi, May 3 India and Israel on Tuesday agreed to enhance cooperation in agricultural research and boost bilateral trade by easing regulation
