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Issue No. 7 9 July 2009

Highlights

- India’s Annual Budget 2009-10

- India – on the road to recovery

- Indian Market Sees Best May in a Decade

- Growth rate of cement, steel, coal and electricity nearly doubled in April

- Government to simplify SEZ approval

- Indian Government to allow 26% foreign investment in pension sector

- Export of wheat and wheat products allowed

- Corporate India Clocks PE Deals Worth $ 494 million in April

- 9 million new GSM subscribers in April

- India`s Wirless User-base Crosses 400 Million Mark

- NRI remittances up

- Monthly Income of average Indian crosses Rs. 3,000

- FII Investments reach US$ 2 billion mark

- India third best place to be in times of recession

- Retail Brands Make a Beeline for India

- India second largest investor in the UK in 2008

- Indians are world’s greenest

- Exports Down 33% in April

India’s Annual Budget 2009-10

Mr. Pranab Mukherjee, Finance Minister in the newly elected UPA government at the Centre, presented India’s annual Budget, worth US$ 210 billion, in the Parliament on 06 June 2009. Following are the main highlights of the new budget:

- Government plans to bring back economy to high growth of 9%

- Fiscal deficit up from 2.7% to 6.8% of GDP

- Government spending to increase by 36%

- Transportation, Telecommunications and rural development top list

- Defence expenditure up 34%

- 10% surcharge on personal income tax scrapped

- Income tax exemption limit raised to Rs. 15,000 for senior citizens

- Allocations for highways being stepped up by 23 per cent

- Rs. 2,000 crore (1 crore = 10 million) rural housing fund under National Housing Bank

- Unique Identification Card to citizens in 12-18 months

- Income Tax returns to be made simpler

- 8 missions being launched under Plan on Climate Change

- Share of direct taxes in revenue increased to 58%

- Allocation of Rs. 39,100 crore (1 crore = 10 million) to be made for National Rural Employment Guarantee Act

Commenting on the high fiscal deficit, Finance Minister said the government has taken the calculated risk to help stimulate growth, but would strive hard to bring it down to 4 per cent in the next two fiscals. He also ruled out any roll back of the stimulus measured announced earlier by the government.

Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh later commenting on the budget commended Finance Minister for the excellent job done in reconciling the short term requirements of India’s economy, to provide a stimulus to the growth process and simultaneously to ensure that India recaptures the rhythm of the growth process despite the recessionary tendencies in the world economy. He said that FM had focused on increasing investments in infrastructure both in the public sector and in the private sector through the public-private partnership route. There is also emphasis on spending a lot more money in putting in place social safety nets, in increasing our investment outlays in rural development, in agriculture, in health care services, in urban renewal missions, etc. He further added that 7 per cent growth rate this year is an achievable growth target but it is not good enough for the medium term, India must move to a growth path of 8 to 9 per cent. He also said that the government would go in for disinvestment of public sector undertakings and the Finance Minister has committed the government to increase disinvestment while maintaining the public sector character of public enterprises.

Various apex business organizations, economists, businessmen and industry in India have termed the Budget as a balanced one, which takes care of almost everything. The Budget has a long-term aim of reviving the economy. The substantial hike in government expenditure will help rejuvenate demand and put the economy back on the 9% plus growth track.

India – on the road to recovery

According to a survey done by the ABN Amro Bank, the Indian economy which has been hit harder than expected by the global recession may be on the path of recovery. Robust growth in steel and cement sales as well as in manufacturing in recent months showed the worst may be over for the Indian economy. In addition, wholesale price inflation shows demand has not fallen as anticipated and prices were holding firm, demand in India’s hinterland is firm, auto demand has also firmed in recent weeks, etc. also prove that stimulus packages announced by the government since late last year together with aggressive policy easing by the Reserve Bank of India seem to be making an impact. The main stock index has rebounded more than half from its 2009 trough in early March. Foreigners bought $1.5 billion worth of shares in April after heavy outflows in January and February.

Domestic ratings agency ICRA states the economy is likely to grow 6.5 to 7.5 per cent in 2009-10 if the global economy comes out of the slump later this year. The Reserve Bank of India has forecast 6 per cent growth and the Planning Commission, in the wake of economic conditions turning better in April this year, has forecast at 6.7 per cent growth rate this fiscal.

Indian Market Sees Best May in a Decade

The month of May has turned out to be the most fruitful for Dalal Street this year, with investors reaping returns of as much as 28 per cent -- the highest gains seen in a decade in the month. The benchmark index Sensex gained about 3,000 points in May settling at 14,625.25 from 11,400 levels at the end of April.

Growth rate of cement, steel, coal and electricity nearly doubled in April

The growth rate of core industries including cement, finished steel, coal and electricity nearly doubled to 4.3 per cent during April 2009. This is seen as a big relief to the Government and the industry and could signal the revival of the economy that has been on the slump for the past few months. The output of cement went up by 11.7 per cent and that of finished steel and coal by 1.6 and 13.2 per cent respectively.

Government to simplify SEZ approval

With exports falling sharply in the last six months, the Commerce Ministry has initiated steps to reduce the time taken to develop Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in the country by simplifying procedures to get the tax-free industrial enclaves notified. It is seen as one way of increasing overseas sales of Indian goods and services. Developers will now be able to get their land classified as an SEZ at the initial stage of approval by submitting legal documents that prove land ownership.

Indian Government to allow 26% foreign investment in pension sector

The Government of India is considering allowing 26% foreign direct investment (FDI) in pension sector. Under the norms being worked out by the Finance Ministry, Pension Fund Managers (PFMs) could be allowed to bring in 26% FDI under the New Pension Scheme. At present, 26% FDI is permitted in the insurance sector and an amendment bill is pending in the Rajya Sabha (Upper House) to raise the cap to 49%. It is expected that as and when FDI ceiling for insurance companies would be increased to 49%, even PFMs cap would also be raised to similar level.

Export of Wheat and Wheat Products Allowed

The Central Government in India has decided to lift the ban of export of wheat and wheat products on private account from May 15, 2009. It has been decided to allow private traders to export wheat and wheat products but put a cap on the quantity to be exported at 2 million tonnes. The traders will have to buy the commodity from the market and can export between May 15, 2009 and March 2010. The decision was in line with an approval given by the Empowered Group of Ministers on March 5.

Corporate India Clocks PE Deals Worth $ 494 million in April

It has been reported that total number of private equity deals announced during the month of April 2009 stood at $ 493.94 million through 15 deals. The value of total number of such deals during the first four months of this year increased to $ 1.31 billion. However, the PE deal value so far this year represents a significant decline of over 72 per cent from its year ago period.

9 million new GSM subscribers in April

Compared to March 2009, India added a total of nearly 9 million GSM subscribers in April taking the total GSM subscriber base to 297 million. This was 3.11 per cent higher over the additions made in March. This figure does not include GSM subscriber additions made by Reliance Telecom.

India`s Wireless User-base Crosses 400 Million Mark

According to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), about 11.90 million wireless subscribers were added in April 2009 as against an addition of 15.64 million during March, taking the total subscriber base to 403.66 million. It now looks the target of 500 million phones by 2010 (set by Department of Telecom) is very much achievable, even before the target period. India is already the fastest growing country in terms of wireless-user addition.

NRI remittances up

Latest figures by the Reserve Bank of India show that net inflows from non-resident Indians witnessed a stupendous surge. NRI deposits surged from $179 million in 2008 to $ 4 billion in fiscal 2009. In March 2009 itself, inflows crossed $ 1 billion, the highest since October 2003 proving the fact again that Indians abroad increasingly sought financial safety in India. This was also due to various NRI deposit schemes introduced in the country.

Monthly Income of average Indian crosses Rs. 3,000

According to the advance estimate for national income released by the Central Statistical Organization (CSO), the monthly income of an average Indian for the first time has crossed Rs. 3,000 in the wake of economic reforms and a high growth rate of above 9 per cent for three years since 2005-06. At the same time, per capita income went up 12.2 per cent to Rs. 37,490 per annum during 2008-09.

FII investments reach US$ 2 billion mark

According to the latest data released by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), foreign institutional investors have made investments to the tune of around US$ 2 billion so far in 2009, including a record single day net purchase of US$ 824.72 million. In May alone, FIIs made gross purchases of equities worth US$ 5.63 billion and sold shares of US$ 3.7 billion, resulting in a net investment of US$ 1.94 billion, as per the data available with SEBI.

India third best place to be in times of recession

According to a survey conducted in April 2009 by the Servcorp International Business Confidence across the global business community, India is the third best country after Australia (first) and China (second) holding promise of overcoming the global economic crisis. About 7,500 international business people from over 24 countries were asked to identify the nations they believed were amongst the best surviving the crisis.

Retail Brands Make a Beeline for India

Many international brands are looking for a foothold in India in the wake of retail slump in major markets. These firms are in various levels of talks with India’s top retailers and developers for entering into master franchisee or revenue sharing agreements. Fast food, fashion apparels and cosmetics are the targeted segments as these are growing are 15-20 per cent annually. Most of the domestic and international brands already present in India are doing well. The experience of existing MNC players in Indian retail has also been an encouraging for aspiring entrants. The turnover of the organized retail segment in India is pegged at around Rs. 40,000 crore (US$ 8 billion).

India second largest investor in the UK in 2008

Despite recession, India emerged as the second largest investor in the United Kingdom in 2008 according to the annually survey by accountants Ernst & Young. Indian companies accounted for 49 projects in the UK which was ahead of traditional investors such as France and Germany. London remains Europe’s top destination for foreign investment. However, Mumbai and Bangalore are seen as the next top centres of global investment.

Indians are world’s greenest

According to a 17-country survey conducted by the National Geogrpahic Society and international polling firm GlobeScan on environmentally sustainable behaviour, Indian consumers have overtaken Brazilians to take the top spot with a Greendex score of 59.5. At the bottom of the list are America (43.7), Canada (43.5) and Japanese (49.3). India’s top ranking was driven by above average performance on all four sub-indices. Indians are the most frequent consumers of self-grown food (35%); Indians have lower than average rates of ownership of large appliances and electronics; Indians tend to to have lower than average annual mileage rates; and on the housing front, Indians rank second with low incidence of having home heating and hot running water and using solar energy to hear water. The survey further reveals that there are plenty of signs that India may lose its standing are they are most likely to acquire a motorized vehicle in the coming years and there is also declining frequency of consumption of local foods.

Exports Down 33% in April

India`s exports dropped for the seventh month in a row showing a decline of 33.2 per cent in April this year over the same month last year. At the same time, imports also dropped by 36.6 per cent in the same period. This was largely due to an over 58 per cent decline in oil imports. However, the Federation of Indian Export Organization (FIEO) stated that inventories with foreign buyers are getting exhausted and exporters have started getting orders, particularly the demand for low-price articles is increase. Commenting on India`s declining exports, international research firm Moody`s said that an annual contraction in exports is inevitable for India. It further stated that a sharp decline in imports has helped to contain the trade deficit.

Events

Manitoba-Punjab MoU

According to a press release issued by Manitoba Provincial government on June 4, 2009, Punjab Agriculture Minister Sucha Singh Langah and Manitoba’s Deputy Premier and Agriculture Minister Rosann Wowchuk signed an MoU between Manitoba and Punjab on Food Development Park. Manitoba province agreed to provide the province’s expertise to support the establishment of a food development centre in Punjab to help expand India’s agri-food industry. Punjab Agriculture Minister was on a visit to Manitoba accompanied by an eight member delegation.

Commemoration of Air India Disaster

High Commissioner of India participated in a vigil and memorial service on 23 June 2009 to offer prayer to the victims of the ill-fated Air India flight 182 on June 23, 1985 that killed 329 innocent people, mostly Indo-Canadians. The Association has been organizing Memorial Service for the past 23 years.

Institute of Chartered Accountants of India signs Joint Declaration with CGA

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India signed a joint declaration with the Certified General Accountants Association of Canada (CGA) to augment and strengthen bilateral cooperation. The two institutes will explore areas of mutual cooperation, potentially paving the way for a future mutual recognition agreement. The ICAI and CGA will explore possible cooperation in respect of professional training, education and examination and technical research as well as international representation on relevant professional bodies. The declaration was signed on 4 July 2009 in Agra, India on the sidelines of ICAI’s Diamond Jubilee International Conference “Winds of Challenges – Global Strategies for Accounting Profession” held at Agre from 03-05 July, 2009.

University of Alberta and IIT Mumbai form Health and Energy Research Partnership

The University of Alberta and the Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai have signed a partnership agreement to collaborate on health and energy research. The agreement will also facilitate faculty and student exchanges.

Kavveri Telecom Products of India acquires Trackcom Systems

Kavveri Telecom Products Limited, a Bangalore based manufacturer of antennas and RF products for the wireless industry, announced that it has acquired Trackcom Systems International, a design and development company based out of Montreal, Canada. This will Indian company access to Trackcom’s portfolio of RF products and antennas of up to 40 Ghz for space, defence and telecom applications.

Food Processing – an important sector for Foreign Direct Investment

The food processing industry in India plays an important role in the Indian economy. With the burgeoning middle class and growing disposable incomes, the food processing sector in India is one of the largest in terms of production, consumption, export and growth prospects. It, therefore, offers significant opportunities for investment. The Government has also accorded it a high priority providing a number of fiscal incentives to encourage commercialization and value addition to agricultural produce with the objective of minimizing pre/post harvest wastage, generating employment and export growth. India's food processing sector covers a wide range of products viz. fruit and vegetables; meat and poultry, milk and milk products, alcoholic beverages, fisheries, plantation, grain processing and other consumer product groups like confectionery, chocolates and cocoa products, soya-based products, mineral water, high protein foods etc.

India has a huge agricultural production base. With an arable land of more than 180 million hectares, India produces a large variety of fruits and vegetables (150 million tonnes), 90 million tonnes of milk which is the highest in the world, 204 million tonnes of food grain, 485 million livestock, 489 million poultry, 6.3 million tonnes fish and more than 45,000 million eggs annually. However, the processing level is very low. The share of India’s export of processed food in global trade is only 1.5%. Hence, there is immense untapped potential for investment in this sector.

The Government has implemented the scheme for infrastructure development to help growth of food processing industry in India. Some of the steps taken in this direction are:

- Food park scheme

- Establishing packing centres

- Integrated cold chain facility

- Value added centre

- Irradiation facilities

- Modernized abattoir

In addition, various development initiatives have also been taken such as assistance under various plan schemes, widening the research and development base in this sector by involving various institutes and providing support to various research and development activities, human resource development to meet the growing requirement of trained manpower in the industry, setting up of testing laboratories, etc.

Investment Opportunities

India presents huge untapped opportunities for the food-processing sector enhanced with low penetration levels and a liberal regulatory regime. Due to Increased economic growth, rising disposable income levels, changing food consumption patterns, and a trend towards nuclear dual-income families all present considerable potential to invest in this sector. Many multinational food companies have entered this industry to meet consumer demand for convenience and value-added products. US brands such as McDonald's, Pizza Hut and Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) have already become household names in India while more are set to enter. Various segments with huge investment potential are:

- Fruits and vegetables

- Fisheries

- Meat

- Grains

- Packaged/convenience goods

- Establishing infrastructure, cold chain, etc.

Policy Initiatives

The food processing industry continues to attract investment. FDI inflows in the country from August 1991 to June 2007 stood at US$ 1282.06 million, 2.43 per cent of total inflow in value terms. The Government has taken many policy initiatives to attract foreign direct investment in this important sector of the Indian economy such as:

- Most of the processed food items have been exempted from the purview of licensing under the Industries

- (Development and regulation) Act, 1951, except items reserved for small-scale sector and alcoholic beverages

- Food processing industries were included in the list of priority sector for bank lending in 1999

- Automatic approval for foreign equity up to 100 per cent is available for most of the processed food items except alcohol, beer and those reserved for small-scale sector subject to certain conditions

- Excise duty on processed fruit and vegetables has been brought down from 16 percent to zero level in the budget, 2001-2002

- In the 2004-2005 budget, income tax holiday and other concessions announced for certain FPI sectors

- Vegetable processing units already exempted form payment of excise duty. To ensure easy availability of credit, Government has included food-processing industries in the list of priority sector for bank lending. NABARD has created a refinancing window with a corpus of US$ 249 million for agro processing infrastructure

- Licensing powers delegated to regional offices under Full Product Order, 1955.

Useful Links

Ministry of Food Processing Industries: http://www.mofpi.nic.in

Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority: http://www.apeda.com

India-Canada Trade

The current global economic recession continues to affect bilateral trade between India and Canada. According to the figures available till March 2009, bilateral trade between two countries stands as follows:

[Figures are in thousand US dollars at current rate]

Details	March 2008	March 2009	% change over same months previous year	April 2008	April 2009	% change over same months previous year
India’s Exports	167,430	155,157	(-) 6.7	183,461	147,852	(-) 19.40
India’s Imports	133,814	178,849	(+) 33.65	155,100	89,345	(-) 42.39

[Source: Statistics Canada]

In March 2009, India’s exports to Canada decreased by 6.7 per cent compared to same month in 2008. However, India’s imports from Canada in March 2009 when compared with figures in March 2008 registered a positive growth of 33.65 per cent. However, in April 2009 both India’s imports from and exports to Canada when compared with figures in April 2008 reported a decline, particularly in the imports from Canada.

Tourism – Palace on Waves

Kerala - A Glimpse of God’s Own Country

With the Arabian Sea to its west, the Western Ghats to its east and 44 rivers crossing the beautiful and picturesque landscape, travelling through Kerala offers a fascinating experience. It is rightly called as "God's Own Country" by those who have seen it. Kerala is a very easy place to find adventure or to simply relax. Tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, lush green hill stations, exotic wildlife, Ayurvedic health resorts, enchanting art and architecture, magical festivals, historic and cultural monuments and exotic cuisine all contribute to a wonderful and unique experience in South India.

The backwaters of Kerala provide an unforgettable experience to a visitor. The 6-night journey is a wonderful way to enjoy the true Keralan lifestyle while being treated like royalty covering Cochin, Munnar, Kothamangalam, Kumarakom and Mararikulam. The journey begins in Cochin with an afternoon sightseeing tour of the city which includes famous sites such as St. Francis Church, the Dutch Palace, the Jewish Synagogue and the Chinese fishing nets followed by a sunset cruise in the harbor and a Kathakali dance performance. On the second day, drive to Munnar, a hill resort famous for its tea gardens and cardamom plantations. On the third day, visit Eraivikulam National Park, a handicraft centre and the Tea Museum followed by a jeep ride through the tea plantations to Devikulam Lake. On the fourth day, leave Munnar for Kumarakom stopping en route at Kothamangalam. In Kumarakom, board the houseboat which will take visitors to a cruise through the soothing and calm backwaters of Kerala passing through Manikombu village, Bhagavathy temple and a traditional snake boat. Spend the night on board the houseboat.

On the fifth day, disembark the houseboat and transfer to a beach resort in the village of Mararikulam. Enjoy the Ayurvedic spa facilities or soak up the sun on the beach followed by an evening cultural show at the beach resort. On the sixth day, spend the time at leisure to relax at the beach or spa or take advantage of optional sightseeing tours spending the night at the resort.

On the seventh day, depart Mararikulum for Cochin to catch the flight for onward journey.

[For further details, please access website: http://www.indiatours.com]

Visits

From India

A two-member delegation led by Mr. Sanjiv Nair, Joint Secretary, Department of Science and Technology and Dr. S. Siva Kumar, CEO, NSDI & Head, NRDMS, DST visited Canada (Sydney, Victoria, Vancouver and Ottawa) from 18 to 22 May 2009. The purpose of the visit was to hold discussions with the Earth Sciences Sector, Department of Natural Resources Canada for a new MoU on Spatial Data Infrastructure, Disaster Management and Climate Change. The delegates visited various facilities of Geological Survey of Canada in the British Columbia. In Ottawa, ESS, NRCan arranged meetings with their senior officials, powerpoint presentations on topics of interest including discussions with and presentations by a large group of companies. The delegates also met Mr. Mark Corey, Assistant Deputy Minister, ESS, NRCan.

The 3^rd India-Canada Joint Committee Meeting on Science and Technology Cooperation was held in Ottawa on June 8, 2009. The Indian delegation was led by Dr. T. Ramasami, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology and Co-Chair and Ms. Marie-Lucie Morin, National Security Adviser and Co-Chair of the Committee. Other members of the Indian delegation included Mr. Y P Kumar, Advisor and Head, International Cooperation Division, DST, Dr. V.P. Dimri, Director, NGRI, Hyderabad and Dr. B K Jain, Advisor, DST. During their stay in Ottawa, the delegation members also visited the Communications Research Centre (CRC), David Florida Lab and the isotope manufacturing facility of MDS Nordion. During his stay in Ottawa, Dr. Ramasami and his delegation also called on Canadian Minister of International Trade Stockwell Day and MOS for S&T Gary Goodyear.

On June 9, 2009, the Indian delegation held discussions with ISTPCanada and Agriculture Canada in Ottawa on topics of mutual interest. ISTP Canada in partnership with Ontario Centres of Excellence (OCE) organized a Keynote Speech by Dr. T. Ramasami, Secretary, under their Distinguished International Speakers Series which was attended by a large gathering comprising scientists, bureaucrats, business people, etc.

On June 10, 2009, Secretary, DST attended the International Economic Forum of the Americas and spoke on the theme “Investing in Innovation: Lessons from Brazil, China and India”. Later in the day, he met the Vice President of the McGill University in Montreal.

From Montreal, the delegation proceeded to the University of Waterloo to hold discussion on cooperation in nanotechnology and nano-biotechnology sectors and visits to Waterloo Institute of Nanotechnology, G2N Lab, Prof. Linda Nazar’s Lab, the Perimeter Institute and a tour of RIM3. On 12 June, the delegation had a meeting with the President of the University of Toronto, a roundtable with scientists and corporate partners in nanotechnology and ICT areas, a visit to MaRS Discovery Centre and held discussions on ISTP health projects. Prof. C.N.R. Rao, Scientific Advisor to the PM and Prof. Ajay K. Sood, India Institute of Science, Bangalore During joined the Indian delegation during meetings in Waterloo and Toronto on June 11 and 13, 2009.

India-Canada Strategic Issues Dialogue and Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism were held in Ottawa on 18-19 June 2009. The Indian delegation was led by Mr. Vivek Katju, Special Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs. Ms. Colleen Swords, Assistant Deputy Minister, Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) led the Canadian delegation. Mr. Katju also called on International Trade Minister Stockwell Day who chairs the Afghanistan Committee in the federal parliament. A meeting was also held with Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Len Edwards. The Institute of Intelligence and Defence Studies of the Norman Peterson School of International Affairs of Carleton University organized a think-tank Roundtable for a discussion with Mr. Katju on India and its neighbours.

The 1^st India-Canada Joint Committee Meeting on Environment Cooperation was held in Ottawa on 18-19 June 2009. The Indian delegation was led by Mr. Hem Pande, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Environment & Forest and Co-Chair and the Canadian delegation by Ms. France Jacovella, Ms. France Jacovella, Director General, Multilateral and Bilateral Affairs, Environment Canada and Co-Chair. Other members of the Indian delegation included Mr. S. K. Bagde, Director, Department of Economic Affairs and Mr. J.S. Kamyotra, Member-Secretary, Central Pollution Control Board. Possible areas of cooperation between India and Canada, namely, air quality prediction, improved chemical management for reducing exposure, mercury monitoring, peer review of source apportionment studies, etc. were identified during the meeting. Both sides also agreed to hold discussion on the issues of wildlife management, bio-diversity and bio-safety in the next meeting. The two sides also agreed to remain in touch, work on areas of cooperation agreed upon and exchange information, etc. on issues identified and proposed to be taken up in the next meeting.

Mrs. Shashi U. Tripathi, Member, Union Public Service Commission and former High Commissioner of India to Canada visited Ottawa (17-20 June, 2009) to deliver a lecture on “Young India: The Growing Youthfulness of an Ancient Civilization” under the ongoing India Lecture Series Programme organized by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Ottawa on 19 June, 2009.

Mr. Navin Kapoor, President, International Business Division, Apollo International Limited, India visited Canada (Vancouver, Ottawa, Toronto) in May to explore opportunities for collaboration and development of trade in solar energy, mining, fertilizer, pulp and paper and other sectors of mutual interest. During his stay, he interacted with a number of Canadian firms, businessmen and office bearers of trade associations.

Forthcoming Visits

From Canada

A Business Mission from Manitoba Province is scheduled to visit India (Delhi, Chandigarh, Abohar, Ludhiana, Patna, Mumbai, Hyderabad) from 10 to 21 July 2009. The mission will be led by Manitoba’s Deputy Premier and Agriculture Minister Hon’ble Rosann Wowchuk comprising of MLA, Deputy Ministers of Agriculture, Federal-Provincial and International Relations and Trade, and Science, Technology, Energy and Mines of Manitoba province, senior officials, representatives of business chambers and business community. During the visit, they will be meeting high level Indian government officials in the Ministries of Agriculture and Food Processing in Delhi and other States and interact with associations, apex trade organizations, etc. In Delhi, the delegation proposes to sign an MoU between CII and the University of Manitoba and another tripartite agreement with Vishwa Gujarati Samaj, Mumbai. MoU between the Province of Manitoba and the State Government of Punjab has already been signed on June 4, 2009 in Winnipeg, Manitoba for establishing a Food Development Park in Punjab as mentioned on page 5.

Mr. Dalton McGuinty, Premier, Ontario Province will visit India in December this year. He will be accompanied by a delegation which would focus on green technologies.

Mr. Jean Charest, Premier of Quebec Province, will visit India in January-February 2010, He will lead a delegation comprising business, research, science and technology and university representatives from Quebec with the aim at developing a broad range of cooperative activities in sectors of mutual interests.

Trade Fairs/Exhibitions/Events

Silk Paradise from 15-17 July, 2009 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, India.

India is the second largest global producer of silk. Over 100 best Indian suppliers of silk products would be participating in the exhibition.

[For more details, please access website: http://thirdeyesight.in/events/Indian-silk-09.htm]

26th Edition of International Jewellery Show (IIJS 2009) from 6th – 10th August, 2009 at Mumbai, India.

IIJS 2009 showcases the vast range of India`s production of gems and jewellery items. The show will have on display (i) precious metal jewellery both plain and studded (ii) loose gemstones including diamonds, precious and semi-precious colored gemstones and synthetic stones (iii) costume/fashion jewellery (iv) jewellery making machineries and other consumables and (v) gems and jewellery publications. The main aim of organizing IIJS is to offer a glimpse of the jewellery that sells abroad and bring in gem & jewellery manufacturers and exporters of India under one roof.

Arogya 2009” from 18-21 September, 2009 in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, India.

Arogya is a comprehensive Health Fair on Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy.

The event showcases the strengths of Indian systems of medicines and homoeopathy, research and development efforts of Indian institutions and India’s capabilities and requirements in healthcare and related spheres. The display profiles includes “Ayurveda, Unani and Homoeopathic Medicines; Practitioners of all System i.e. Ayurveda, Unani, Homoeopathy, Yoga etc.; Naturopathy Centers; Lab Equipment and Machinery; Research Institutes and Departments; manufacturers of Hospital and Surgical Equipments; Health Tourism and Insurance Companies”.

[For further details, please access website www.arogyainternationalfair.com]

Sports Goods & Physical Fitness Equipment Exhibition” from 3-6 October, 2009 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, India.

India Sports Goods are well known around the world and have made a mark in the global sports goods market. They have established their identity in many countries across the world for their quality and cost competitiveness. The exports have shown a steady growth of 10 percent per annum.

The fitness equipment industry in the country is witnessing a boom. With the rise in disposable income and consumerism, people are becoming increasingly health/fitness conscious and the demand for affordable fitness products is growing at a rapid pace. Consequently, the industry is showing significant growth potential.

[For more details, please access website: www.sportsgoodsexhibitionindia.com]

28^th Indian Handicrafts & Gifts Fair (autumn) 2009 from 10^th-13^th October 2009 at India Expo Centre Mart, Greater Noida.

IHGF brings together over 2000 leading Indian manufacturers and exporters from all over India and provides international buyers an unlimited choice for sourcing the finest in house ware, decorative and gift items. The wide-ranging product profile can be broadly categorized into:

· Houseware, Decorative and Gifts

· Fashion Jewellery, Accessories and Bags

· Cane, Bamboo and Eco-Friendly Products

· Christmas Decorations, Candles and Incense Sticks

· Home Textiles, Furnishings, Furniture, Floor Covering and Home Accessories.

[For further details, please access website: www.epch.com]

Hardware India 2009 from 11^th-14^th October, 2009 in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

Hardware India’09’ is an exclusive show of hand Operative Tools, Hardware Items and DIY Products, Building Materials including Paints, Electrical Fitting etc. The event will enable the participants and visitors to explore opportunities for trade and collaborations/joint ventures.

The exhibition will showcase the new product groups like Outdoor Living, Indoor/Outdoor Ambience, Builders Hardware, Industrial Hardware, Hand Tools, Machine Tools, Power Tools, Gardening Equipment and Tools, Automotive/Garage Tools, Measuring Tools, DIY Products, Adhesive & Sealants, Ladders & Accessories, paints, Varnishes & Coatings, Fasteners (Industrial, Builders and Automobiles), Fixtures & Fittings, House ware, Lawnmowers & Lawn Equipment, Paint & Home Decor, Electrical Fittings, Fixtures & Accessories, Plumbing Faucets & Fittings, Abrasives and Grinding Tools and Equipments.

[For further details, please access website: www.hardwareindia2009.com]

17^th edition of ‘Delhi International Leather Fair’ from 23-25 October, 2009 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

The display profile of the Fair includes Finished Leather, Lining Leather, Leather Goods-Travel Ware, Briefcase, Belts, Rucksacks, Gloves, Portfolios, Hand Bags, Purses and Wallets, Leather Footwear, Leather Garments, Footwear Components, Leather Upholstery, Industrial Leather Goods, Hand Gloves and Industrial Gloves, Saddlery & Harness Components and Accessories of Leather, Chemicals, Leather Processing Machinery and Leather Goods Manufacturing Machinery.

[For further details, please access website www.delhileatherfair.com]

International Conference and Exhibition on Dairy Development in India from 23-25 October, 2009 at Chandigarh, India.

The International Conference and Exhibition on Dairy Development in India has been conceptualized with the objective to promote the dairy sector in the Northern Region of the country which is considered the food bowl of the nation.

The event would be an ideal platform for business networking and to hold discussions for joint ventures and technology transfer, etc specifically for enhancing the productivity of the animals, handling milk and milk products, processing, packaging storage and marketing, consultancy for modern dairy management, etc.

[For more details, please access website: www.phdcci.in]

8^th Edition of ‘Pune Expo 2009’ from 4-8 November, 2009 at College of Engineering Ground (COEP), Pune, India.

The Main theme of Pune Expo 2009 is “Business @ Innovation”.

The display profile of the Expo will include the sectors such as Automobiles and Auto-components, Engineering and Machine Tools, Energy, Automation, Electrical and Electronics, Information and Communication Technology, Infrastructure, Real Estate, Education, Consumer Durables, Finance, Banking and Insurance, Agriculture and Food Processing, etc.

[For further details, please access website: www.punexpo.com.]

29^th edition of India International Trade Fair (IITF)” from 14-27 November, 2009 in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, India.

IITF features the advances registered in diverse spheres of Indian economy viz., industry, agriculture, infrastructure and services sectors. Through its special displays, IITF’ 09 will focus on technology and products of small and medium enterprises, consumer goods associated with home needs and trendy lifestyles, besides an entire array of vibrant and ethnic handicrafts and tribal crafts from different regions.

IITF’09 will present a wide range of products, technologies and services pertaining to engineering, electronics, leather, textiles, jute, telecommunications, rubber, handicrafts, processed food, jewellery and consumer goods, etc. Ever since its inception in 1980, this multi-product fair has evolved into a platform for facilitating trade transactions and technological absorption over a wide spectrum of industry.

The visitor profile covers captains of trade and industry, decision makers, overseas trade delegation and foreign emissaries, bureaucrats and policy makers, media persons, thinkers and million of visitors.

[For further details, please access website www.iitfonweb.com]

2^nd Enviro Tech twin shows on environment and 2^nd Energy Technologies during 11-14 Dec, 2009 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

Enviro Tech would focus on the environment related issues by showcasing products and technologies to the entrepreneurs, policy makers and those engaged in this field and to create awareness amongst the common men.

Energy Tech 09 aims at helping accelerate the growth of energy sector in India and assist in achieving the target, “Energy Independence and Power for All by 2012”.

[For further details, please access website www.envirotech-india.com or www.energytechindia.com ]

India International Tea & Coffee Expo” from 18-20 December, 2009 at Bombay Exhibition Centre, Goregaon (E), Mumbai, India.

The India International Tea & Coffee Expo (IITCE) is an exclusive show where all leading Tea & Coffee companies will showcase their products. It is the only show where buyer, distributor, wholesaler, retailer and decision makers will come together to see the latest products and trends influencing the beverage trade.

IITCE is a specialized show for business-to-business and business-to-consumer genre presenting trend, tradition and technology.

[For more details, please access website: www.teacoffeeexpo.in]

13^th India International Security Expo” from 15^th-18^th February, 2010 in Pragati Marg, New Delhi, India.

IISE 2010 offers excellent business opportunities in the areas of security, surveillance, protection, safety and prevention related products for manufacturers, exporters – importers, technologists and trade visitors from India and abroad.

The 13^th India International Security Expo aims at facilitating transfer of technology, joint ventures, trade and business interaction in this field.

[For further details, please access website: www.indiainternationalsecurityexpo2010.com]

16^th edition of ‘Tex-Styles India’ fair from 24-27 February, 2010 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

The display profile of the Fair includes:

· Fabrics, Yarns & Fibers

· Threads,

· Home Furnishing and made ups

· Knits, Trimmings

· Embellishments & accessories

· CAD/CAM systems

· Textile gifts, Shawls & Scarves

‘Tex-Styles India’ Fair will provide an excellent opportunity to the participants to display their latest designs and collections for the overseas buyers to source their requirements under one roof.

The fair will also have additional features like special pavilion for Fabric Folio, Trend Forum, Theme Pavilion, Designers Gallery, etc. Each of these will be set up in co-operation with reputed overseas and Indian designers and experts. The new concept of virtual trade fair has been introduced for the first time for Tex-Style India 2010 which will be on the website for three months after completion of the event.

[For more information, please access website: www.texstylesindia.com]

Tenders

Global Tender Notice No: CO/CONTS/0014N/MIIE/C1 Con. Hydraulic Drives/09

The Neyveli Lignite Corporation Ltd., Office of the Chief General Manager (Contracts), Tamil Nadu, India invites tenders (one original and six identical copies)from firms of international repute for “Design, Manufacture, Supply, Installation, Commissioning and Testing of Hydraulic Drives for the C1 Conveyor from Mine-II Bunker to TS-II Expansion” as per the details below:

Price of Tender Document: US$ 100

Bid Guarantee Amount: US$ 7800

The closing of tender is on July 14, 2009 up to 1430 hrs (IST) and the tender will be opened on the same day at 1500 hrs (IST).

[For complete details of the tender and tender documents, please access NLC’s website: www.nlcindia.com]

Global Tender Notice No: BN6AC09004

The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited, Material Management, Baroda, India has floated an open tender under International Competitive Bidding Basis in Two Bid System for “Charter Hire of 08 Nos. of Work Over Rigs for various assets of ONGC, under PEL/ML Areas” as per the details below:

Tender fee: US$ 1000.00

EMD: US$ 36,550

The closing of tender is on July 28, 2009 up to 1400 hrs (IST) and the tender will be opened on the same day at 1500 hrs (IST).

[For complete details of the tender and tender documents, please access ONGC’s website: www.ongctenders.net]

Global Tender Notice NSTL/NSG-205/MD/FE/2009-10/GT/02

The Naval Sciences and Technological Laboratory proposes to procure a “Mobile Acoustic Range (MAR) System”.

The proposed system should measure radiated noise from all types of platforms, surface ships, submarines and sea ambient noise. The system should also be deployable from any ship and at any sea depth in order to conduct measurements at remote locations where ship traffic is low. The system should process and analyse the acoustic signal, store the raw data and process data in a comprehensive database. The system should also be able to measure the sea ambient noise.

The suppliers should have at least two previous mobile acoustic range installations to its credit in the last ten years for either Navies or Shipyards.

The last date for submission of tender document is August 14, 2009 up to 1400 hrs (IST)

[For complete details of the tender and tender documents, please access DRDO’s website: www.drdo.org]

Global Tender Notice No. ORDFYS/OFCH/DAVP/03/09-10/PV/01

The General Manager, Ordnance Factory, Chanda, Maharashtra – 442501 invites applications for tender documents from the eligible vendors/likely suppliers for the under mentioned items with terms and conditions given below:

Brief Nomenclature of Store	Quantity	Last Day of Application for Tender Document	Tender Opening Date, Time & Place
ITEM CODE: 6171000153 Funnel with Cone Assembly to DRG. No. 4-025998 Det. No. 080 C6 DC-35862A for Round 125 MM Heat. Note: The firm has to supply advance samples of 06 Nos. For conducting penetration proof/armor piercing (after assembly with shell) as per proof schedule no. CQA (A)/PS/GA/145 (e). The item will be accepted only after satisfactory performance in penetration proof/armor piercing.	8,000 Nos.	11/07/2009	Date: 09/09/2009 Time: 1430 HRS Place: O.F. Chanda

[For complete details of the tender and tender documents, please access website: www.tenders.gov.in ]

Global Tender Notice No

The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited, Office of General Manager, Mumbai Region, Engineering Services (Offshore), India invites tenders under Two Bid System through e-procurement as per details below:

Tender No.	Description	Tender fee (US$)	Closing Date & Time	Opening date & Time
P865C09002	Sub Sea Pipeline for B-193 Project	1000.00	27.07.2009 at 1400 Hrs.	27.07.2009 at 1500 Hrs.
P865C09003	05 Well Head Platform for B-193 Project	1000.00	31.07.2009 at 1400 Hrs.	31.07.2009 at 1500 Hrs.
P861C09006	Process Platform for B-193 Project	1000.00	24.08.2009 at 1400 Hrs.	24.08.2009 at 1500 Hrs.

[For further details, please access ONGC’s website: https://etender.ongc.co.in ]

Global Tender Notice No: MR/OW/MM/RS12&RS14WPP/13/2008 (P851C08011)

The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited, Office of General Manager, Mumbai Region, Engineering Services (Offshore), India invites tenders under Two Bid System for “MH South Redevelopment Phase-II RS12&RS14 Well Platform Project on International Competitive bidding (ICB)” as per details below:

Tender fee: US$ 1000.00

The closing of tender is on July 21, 2009 up to 1400 hrs (IST) and the tender will be opened on the same day at 1500 hrs (IST).

[For complete details, please access ONGC’s website: www.ongctenders.net ]

Global Tender Notice No PC/608/09/(19)/NSG/2327P

The National Security Guard, Office of Deputy General, New Delhi, India invites tenders under Two Bid System (Technical & Commercial Bid) for “Electro Stun Gun”as per details below:

Quantity: 200 Nos.

EMD: Rs. 60,000/-

The closing of tender is on July 14, 2009 up to 1200 Hrs (IST)

[For complete details, please access NSG’s website: www.nsg.gov.in/tenders.html may be accessed]

Global Tender Notice NSTL/EPG-BU/MD/FE/2009-10/GT/03

The Naval Sciences and Technological Laboratory proposes to procure “Design Development Fabrication and Supply of 230 KW BLDC Motor with Controller”

The last date for submission of tender document is August 21, 2009 up to 1400 hrs (IST)

[For complete, please access DRDO’s website: www.drdo.org]

Published by : High Commission of India, Ottawa, Canada

Editor : Deputy High Commissioner

Sub-Editor : Second Secretary (Com)