http://24dunia.comNewsENWebdunia.com[India] Pvt. Ltd.http://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/RIL-may-fuel-India-Inc-s-overseas-M-A-drive/4446733.htmlWith signs of green shoots showing in economies worldwide, India Inc’s appetite for overseas acquisitions got a fresh lease of life with Reliance Industries’ estimated $10-12 billion offer for a controlling interest in bankrupt LyondellBasell Industries.The deal by India’s largest private sector company controlled by Mukesh Ambani, if closed, will make it one of the largest petrochemical outfits inBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:29:44 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Kurlon-looks-to-up-growth-through-furniture/4446736.htmlKurlon Ltd, a Bangalore-based mattresses firm is foraying into the Rs 13,000 crore home, kitchen and off-ice furniture segment. The company as part of its diversification strategy has set up a 60:40 joint venture with a family-owned little known Italian firm - Cesare, to manufacture Italian designed sofas in India. Kurlon is looking to enter kitchen and office segment during next year.The company hasBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:31:25 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/You-need-proper-policy-for-energy-service-companies/4446738.htmlWith the global debate on climate change heating up and nations working out strategies to cut their carbon footprints, energy efficiency has gained a renewed focus in economies across the world. The bilateral co-operation between India and the US in the field of energy-saving technologies, thus, would go a long way in securing energy needs of both the countries, says Tom Cutler, acting director inBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:32:42 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Global-trade-in-some-sectors-unviable/4446742.htmlMy first meaningful encounter with environmental law was in a Supreme Court PIL involving use and storage of asbestos in industrial activity, specifically in relation to employee health. I recall a random remark, meant in good faith, in a preparatory meeting with the manufacturer client alluding to “a price one paid for the benefits of industrialisation". It was not meant to be frivolous. Several judicialBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:33:56 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Longer-cool-off-needed-for-judicial-role/4446743.htmlThe Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is reported to have proposed to the finance ministry to amend the Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992 (SEBI Act) to enable senior officials of SEBI to become members of the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT), the special court that hears appeals against orders passed by SEBI.The SEBI Act imposes a cool-off period of only two years fromBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:33:56 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Much-of-the-criticism-against-proposed-GST-is-unwarranted/4446744.htmlThis is the seminar time for the most topical subject, the proposed GST, as in the discussion paper presented on November 10, 2009. While the Industry and trade have reacted favourably, there are some criticisms which are unjustified. This is how they stand.(1) Threshold:Different thresholds have been proposed, Rs 10 lakh for SGST (lower for some underdeveloped states), Rs 1.5 crore for CGST for goodsBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:33:56 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Cane-crushing-to-produce-over-100-lakh-tonnes/4446747.htmlAlmost all the sugarcane factories have started cane crushing for the season. With crushing activity picking up, industry players estimate that around 100 lakh tonnes are likely to be crushed in 2009-10, while government has pegged the figure at 107 lakh tonnes.Gujarat has total 17 sugar factories run on co-operative basis. "Sugar factories have started crushing and they are operating at fully capacity.BusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:34:51 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Defence-min-puts-rider-to-release-of-3G/4446748.html‘Clear the proposal for laying of optical fibre network before Dec 7’.The defence ministry has agreed to release 25 MHz of 3G spectrum in the 1920 MHz-1980 Mhz band before December 7, but with a pre-condition — the government will clear the proposal for laying of an alternative optical fibre network for the military before that date and create a monitoring mechanism for the project’s implementation.TheBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:34:51 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Jindal-Rail-to-invest-Rs-2-700-cr-in-wagon-facility-finalising-tech-deal-with-Jap-firm/4446752.htmlJindal Rail Infrastructure Ltd, a 100 per cent subsidiary of Jindal ITF, the infrastructure arm of Jindal SAW Ltd, is likely to finalise a technical tie-up with a Japanese company for manufacturing of electric multiple unit (EMU) coaches at its upcoming wagon making facility at Karjan near here.Indresh Batra, managing director, Jindal SAW Ltd and vice-chairman Jindal ITF, part of the $12 billion OBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:34:52 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Obama-Singh-to-run-last-mile-on-nuclear-deal/4446754.htmlTrying to resolve sticking points on the India-US civil nuclear cooperation agreement on the one hand, and narrow differences on their approach to climate change on the other, India and the US are likely to sign a joint Memorandum on Energy Security, Clean Energy and Climate Change during Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit to the United States this week.Top officials told Business Standard thatBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:34:52 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Protests-against-buying-land-boost-Orissa-Naxals/4446758.htmlRecently L N Mittal, the world’s top steel maker, announced in London that he may shift his 12-million tonne steel project out of Orissa because of the long delay in land acquisition and local opposition to the project.Other promoters of mega projects in the state, such as the Tatas and South Korean steel major Posco, confide the same thing.Orissa may have attracted investment intent of over Rs 6,00,000BusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:34:53 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Railway-works-resume-in-NC-Hills-district-after-Black-Widow-militants-surrender/4446759.htmlWith gradual improvement in the security scenario in North Cachar Hills district of Assam, following the surrender of 'Black Widow' militants, work on the Lumding-Silchar railway gauge conversion project has begun.A senior official from Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) informed that most of the companies, which had earlier abandoned the project, had resumed their works and around 35 companies wereBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:34:54 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/IT-companies-reduce-reliance-on-headcount-to-cut-costs/4446761.htmlInformation technology companies are realising that just adding to their headcount (termed linear) is no longer enough.Both Indian and multinational IT companies, including HCL Technologies, TCS, IBM, Infosys, Satyam, Wipro, Genpact, and NIIT Technologies, have implemented a host of non-linear initiatives, such as the reuse of assets and codes, the creation of templates and intellectual property (IP)BusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:35:50 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/PM-s-council-expects-benign-rates-till-March/4446771.htmlIn a signal that interest rates would remain benign for another few months, the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council (PMEAC) today said the current monetary policy stance would continue till March. The council said the accommodative policy should be phased out but the timing would depend upon economic revival and inflationary pressures.“The existing monetary policy stance will have to change,BusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:43:10 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/SBI-slashes-home-loan-rates-yet-again/4446772.htmlThe rate war in the home loan segment has just intensified, with the State Bank of India, the country’s largest bank, slashing rates today to attract customers across income segments.It introduced a new scheme for borrowers up to Rs 5 lakh. In this Hi-Five Loan Scheme, the bank has offered an annual rate of 8 per cent for the first five years. Thereafter, the borrower has the option to choose betweenBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:43:10 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/IPOs-fail-to-enthuse-retail-investors/4446774.htmlSubscriptions crash from 19 per cent in 2004 to only 3 per cent.In spite of the revival in the primary market, retail investors are treading cautiously when it comes to investing in initial public offers (IPOs).Going by retail numbers in some of the IPOs that were up for subscription recently, one can clearly see that the recovery story has not been bought by them.Retail subscription to IPOs in IndiaBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:43:59 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Bagpiper-punch-for-Diageo/4446775.htmlUnited Spirits banks on its flagship brand to become the world's largest selling liquor company.They are as different as chalk and cheese in terms of brand portfolio, but there is one thing common between them: both were potential collaborators till a couple of months back and have now turned bitter rivals in the market place.For over a year, United Spirits and Diageo were in high spirits, firing upBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:45:13 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Brand-A-I-One-too-many/4446776.htmlAir India dumped the Centaur logo three years after it was readjusted to point upwards; Indian Airlines changed its name to Indian just two years before its merger.The cashless Maharajah must be hoping for a miracle to shed his excess baggage. Air India’s mascot since 1946, the Maharajah keeps on smiling at us from the hoardings all over the country, but the smile lacks cheer these days. For, India’sBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:45:13 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Dell-takes-the-SME-path/4446777.htmlIn October last year, personal computer manufacturer Dell’s market share in the small and medium enterprises (SME) segment was just 3.2 per cent. A year later, the figure has improved to 5.2 per cent – a creditable performance considering that PC sales have been south-bound in this period.Dell says the credit goes to its campaign -- ‘Take Your Own Path’ -- launched in October, 2008. It was the firstBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:45:13 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Idea-bigger-than-money/4446779.htmlIs Rs 500 enough to start an entrepreneurship venture?Ask students of the Indian School of Business, who have gone through the ‘Make as Much as You Can,’ an out-of-the-class entrepreneurship module, and they will vouch that Rs 500 is enough.Deviating from the chalk and board lecture, the school gave Rs 22,500 — Rs 500 to each of the 45 participating teams — and a week to start a venture. The rider:BusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:45:13 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/The-just-in-time-talent-solution/4446789.htmlCan online, real-time engines ensure rapid but temporary manpower provisioning for today’s uncertain times?Downsizing. Right-sizing. Up-sizing. Human capital planning swings between these three points, without ever finding a balance at any point of time. It is amongst the most challenging and demanding business problems of our times. In his book, Talent on Demand, Peter Cappelli, professor of management,BusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:47:41 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Nuts-and-bolts/4446790.htmlMost of us step out of B-school with a spirit to conquer the world. As a fresh graduate, the only thing on my mind was to outshine my compatriots. B-schools teach you to be focused and fiercely competitive, but organisations don't need people who are forever aggressive. Successful managers don't think just about their own success, but also that of the organisation. A high degree of "interdependence"BusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:49:40 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Full-service-airline-costs-are-double-ours/4446791.htmlThe Indian aviation industry, which accounts for 2 per cent of the global aviation industry, suffered losses of Rs 10,000 crore in 2008-09. The industry is, however, now looking up, feels SpiceJet Chief Executive Officer Sanjay Agarwal. Speaking to Surajeet Das Gupta and Mihir Mishra, Agarwal claims his airlines has all the right ingredients of a successful airline — low-cost airlines, he says, areBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:49:54 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/What-do-you-have-to-say-about-the-New-Tax-Code-draft-Join-the-discussion/4446843.htmlThe government has unveiled the draft of a brand new direct , which promises to replace the four-decade Income-Tax Act to improve the efficiency and equity of our tax system by eliminating distortions in the tax structure, introducing moderate levels of taxation and expanding the tax base. Is the draft in line with your expectations.BusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:02:50 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Volume-growth-lower-input-costs-help-FMCG-companies/4446737.htmlSector outperforms India Inc with 16.6 per cent rise in netFast moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies have put up a good show in the first quarter ended June 2009, driven by volume growth and a decline in commodity prices.The net sales growth at 10.1 per cent rate has almost doubled, compared with 5.5 per cent in the quarter ended March 2009. But sales growth was higher at 16.7 per cent in the quarterBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:31:25 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Mortgage-lenders-move-to-match-SBI-rates/4446770.htmlThe action in the home loans market seems to be hotting up with many banks and housing finance companies moving to match the competitive schemes unveiled by the country’s largest lender, State Bank of India.The latest to join the fray is LIC Housing Finance (LICHF). The country’s second-largest mortgage player has cut floating rates by 50 basis points (bps) from 9.25 per cent to 8.75 per cent for loansBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:43:10 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Safari-or-Scorpio/4446783.htmlSafari(140bhp) has far better power than Scorpio(~120bhp) But the quality of interiors is better in scorpioBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:45:48 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Computer-call-When-your-PC-becomes-a-phone/4446641.htmlVoIP services come in real handy to make cheap overseas calls.While domestic call rates have dipped to a measly 1 paisa/second in the country, telecom companies still maintain steep rates for international (ISD) calls. If Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are to be believed, internet telephony offers a way out, allowing users to make such calls for free from computers.At present, a call can be madeBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:31:06 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Hollowing-out-a-PC-to-cut-computing-costs/4446642.htmlWhen Alok Singh thought of starting Novatium Solutions in 2005, he had a simple plan in his mind — to make computing simple and affordable without compromising on the user experience. With prior experience in companies like Satyam and Tata Motors, Singh zeroed in on the idea of launching a PC with no computing hardware like the CPU and, instead, managed by a central server.This is how Novatium, Singh’sBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:31:07 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/If-another-26-11-happens/4446644.htmlThe Heckler and Koch sub-machine guns have finally arrived, as have the Colt grenade launchers; 200 bullet-proof vests will eventually land up, as will 19 amphibious vehicles from Canada to help patrol the seas to prevent another sea-borne attack; at some point in the future, you will have CCTVs in each street corner… The questions, however, are whether this is enough to ensure there is no other attackBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:32:55 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/The-business-of-education/4446645.htmlIn the past week, this newspaper carried three related news reports on the business and economics of education. First, we reported that public expenditure on education in the Eleventh Plan period was falling short of the set target. This despite the fact that the prime minister dubbed the Eleventh Five Year Plan as the “National Education Plan”. Second, we reported the findings of the US InstituteBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:32:55 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Administration-revamp-steps-initiated/4446659.htmlWith manpower and infrastructure inadequacies crippling mineral administration in the state, the Orissa government has started a series of measures to address the issues.It has set in motion the process for appointment of 140 posts in the directorate of mines (DoM) and directorate of geology (DoG) at various levels. The state finance department has approved 100 posts in the DoM and 40 posts in theBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:55:53 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Amway-to-roll-out-more-Brand-Experience-Centres/4446660.htmlBuoyed by the encouraging response to its Brand Experience Centres, Amway India Limited, one of India's leading direct selling companies, plans to add 5-6 such centres in the next 12 months to enable more consumers to get a first hand experience of its products. Apart from opening more centres, Amway also intends to upgrade its 54 offices across the country into Brand Experience Centres.At present,BusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:55:53 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Bureaucratic-delay-hits-concession-approvals/4446662.htmlDue to delay at various levels of administration, as many as 9,211 applications for mineral concession (MC) are pending with the Orissa government for disposal by October 2009.This includes 1011 applications pending in the directorate of mines (DoM), 2488 in the steel and mines department and 5712 applications at the level of mining officers (MO), deputy director of mines (DDM) and collectors.SimilarlyBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:55:54 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/FACT-KSIDC-to-set-up-trade-centre-at-Kochi/4446663.htmlThe Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC) and Fertilizers and Chemicals Travancore (FACT) have signed a memorandum of under standing (MoU) for setting up a trade centre at Kochi.The MoU, involving an investment of Rs 400 crore, was signed between Alkesh Sharma, managing director, KSIDC, and V G Sankaranarayanan, director - technical of FACT, in the presence of state industries ministerBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:55:54 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Nalco-in-talks-with-bank-for-Rs-10-000-cr-Iran-project/4446664.htmlState-owned National Aluminium Company Ltd (Nalco) is in talks with an Islamic bank in Indonesia for a loan to revive its Rs 10,000-crore Iran project, on hold due to the aluminium maker’s inability to secure finances for the venture.The company plans to set up a 330,000-tonne aluminium smelter and an 800-Mw captive power plant in Iran. Now, it is talking to an Islamic bank in Indonesia, two investmentBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:55:54 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Sundergarh-leads-districts-in-large-and-medium-industries/4446665.htmlKeeping pace with the ongoing industrialisation process, 42,002 Small Scale Industries (SSIs) were registered in the state between 200-01 and 2008-09. This apart, 235 medium and large industries were also registered during this period.While the maximum number of large and medium enterprises is proposed to come up in Sundergarh district, Cuttack boasted of the highest number of SSIs, sources said.InBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:55:54 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Vizag-port-allows-pvt-workers-for-cargo-handling/4446666.htmlVisakhapatnam port is allowing shipping companies to appoint private workers on a temporary basis to minimise the impact of strike called by cargo handling workers.More than 3,000 workers have gone on strike since November 19 demanding implementation of manning scales.About 39 vessels have been waiting for a berth from the last couple of days. A few cargo operators have even shifted their ships toBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:55:54 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Semicon-revenues-may-rebound-in-10/4446667.htmlRevenues in 2009 may fall 11 per cent, says Gartner.Semiconductor revenues in 2010 are expected to bounce back to the same levels as in 2008 at $255 billion, analyst firm Gartner said in its latest outlook.However, the worldwide revenues in 2009 is expected to fall 11.4 per cent to $226 billion compared with the 2008 levels. This forecast, however, is better than the third quarter projections of GartnerBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:56:21 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/CCIL-to-guarantee-currency-forwards-from-December/4446678.htmlAs with the currency futures market, over the counter market (OTC) instruments, known as currency forwards, will also get the benefit of guaranteed settlement. Clearing Corporation of India (CCIL) is commencing guaranteed settlement of forward forex trades from December 1.Bank-to-bank forward deals would be covered under this arrangement and CCIL is setting up a dedicated default fund, for which participatingBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:56:56 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Battle-for-mind-space/4446683.htmlAs full-service carriers invade the no-frills space, SpiceJet is finding new ways to bond with customers.If you visit a travel portal, and search for the best available air fares between Delhi and Mumbai, you will find that every airline is offering similar fares. That’s the biggest challenge facing budget carriers like SpiceJet since they began flying.The fare differential they enjoyed with otherBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:57:40 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Godrej-s-Nano-Chotukool/4446684.htmlThe world’s lowest-cost refrigerator will be launched in March.The bullock cart stops in one of the dusty alleys in Osnamabad, a small town in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra. And two village girls, dressed in traditional Marathi Kasta Saree, step out in style with the products they have helped co-create with engineers at Godrej Boyce.The quality of the sales pitch of the Class 10-pass girlsBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:57:40 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/PepsiCo-caters-to-both-Indias/4446688.htmlWhether it’s getting M S Dhoni and his boys to play a game of cricket with young fishermen in the backwaters of Kerala to promote ‘My Pepsi, My Way’, or constructing checkdams and recharge ponds in Paithan to create a recharge potential of over 700 million litres of water and promote its ‘sustainability’ strategy, PepsiCo India is doing it all. In an interview with Leslie D'Monte Shahana Joshi, PepsiCoBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:58:12 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Australian-institute-for-research-collaboration/4446689.htmlThe Australian government has provided over A$8 million to fund the creation of the Australia-India Institute at the University of Melbourne. The institute is a platform to support research, training, executive briefings and policy advice for the benefit of both countries, according to Australia-India Institute Deputy Director John Webb.“India and Australia are building closer ties on trade in goodsBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:58:28 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/IMT-Nagpur-gets-new-director/4446690.htmlThe Institute of Management Technology (IMT), Nagpur, has appointed Rajendra Nargundkar as Director in place of Anwar Ali who took over as Director of IMT Ghaziabad a couple of months ago.Nargundkar, who took charge only a few days ago, has already highlighted three priority areas for the institute — placements, faculty training and global tie-ups. Moreover, the business school is contemplating anBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:58:28 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/RBI-raps-banks-for-charging-more-from-retail-clients/4446713.html‘Opaque lending structure needs to be changed’.The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has rapped banks for continuing to charge unduly high interest rates from retail customers even after announcing a series of cuts in lending rates.This came at a pre-monetary policy meeting with bankers after the latter sought retaining of the soft interest rate regime. “If after so much liquidity support, fiscal and monetaryBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:24:15 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Drought-to-hit-auto-cos-rural-sales/4446721.htmlWith several state governments formally declaring parts of the country as drought-hit, auto manufacturers fear they will see a negative impact on sales. The main reason is that they have a decent exposure to the rural areas of the country, due to which sales are expected to slow down to just a trickle in the final part of this year.India’s biggest two-wheeler manufacturer, Hero Honda, is already predictingBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:29:06 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/FIIs-up-stake-in-top-sugar-firms/4446722.htmlProspect of the cos continuing their excellent performance attracts investors.Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) have raised their holdings in top sugar companies like Bajaj Hindusthan, Balrampur Chini and Renuka Sugars to cash in on the sector’s improved performance.The purchases were done in the quarter ended June 30. Analysts believe the trend will strengthen in the following quarters as theseBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:29:06 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Assam-tea-industry-braces-up-for-buoyant-2010/4446726.htmlAssam, the largest tea producing state of India, is headed for a better season next year, on the back of good crop and better price realisations.If 2009 has been good for the Assam tea industry as far as production and price realisations are concerned, the next year might be even better if industry captains are to be believed.Tea industry sources said that the indications that they were getting suggestedBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:29:44 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Emami-eyes-acquisitions-domestic-and-foreign/4446727.htmlKolkata-based FMCG major Emami is scouting for acquisitions in the domestic and overseas markets and says it can spend up to Rs 800 crore on this.The company, which acquired Zandu Pharmaceuticals last year for around Rs 700 crore, said it would be a debt-free company soon and could raise more funds for inorganic growth.“We are in a better position for acquisitions. Soon we will be a debt-free company.BusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:29:44 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Ford-Foundation-to-offer-40-scholarships-for-2010/4446729.htmlThe Ford Foundation International Fellowships Program has invited applications for its fellowships programmes for 2010. The Foundation is offering 40 scholarships and the candidates have to undergo a four-stage selection process.In the first two stages, the pre and final application forms will be reviewed and evaluated by a panel of experts from the academia and the social development sector. The nextBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:29:44 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Ford-to-invest-2-3-billion-for-expansion-in-Brazil/4446730.htmlFord Motor Co said it will spend 4 billion reais ($2.3 billion) to expand in the growing Brazilian market, the largest investment it has made in the country.The five-year plan includes boosting the capacity of the Camacari factory that makes the Fiesta small car and modernising the Troller plant that builds utility vehicles, said Jennifer Flake, a spokeswoman. The Dearborn, Michigan-based company alsoBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:29:44 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Reliance-Spot-Exchange-plans-trading-in-metals/4446732.htmlReliance Spot Exchange, an initiative from Reliance Exchange Next,(a Reliance Capital company), is planning to start spot trading in metals like aluminum, zinc and copper soon.The spot exchange started functioning last month, with trade in steel ingots and billet from Raipur, Ludhiana and Mandi Gobindgarh (Punjab), and pepper from Kerala. The exchange had also applied for Agriculture Produce MarketingBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:29:44 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Rupee-rises-from-one-week-low/4446710.htmlThe rupee gained from a one-week low as the benchmark share index rebounded, easing concern that foreign funds will slow share purchases.The rupee gained 0.1 per cent to 48.36 per dollar at the close of trade in Mumbai. It is still the worst-performer among Asia's 10 most-traded currencies this month, with a 0.9 per cent loss. A long position is a bet an asset will rise, while a short position is aBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 06:22:19 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Credit-flows-thrive-to-MSME-in-West-Bengal/4446605.htmlKOLKATA: Banks are often criticised for not being generous when it comes to extending credit to the small scale sector. But inclusion of medium-sized units in the sector since 2006 has helped them post a substantial rise in their aggregate lending to the sector, now known as micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) sector. This is reflected in the past three years' trend in credit flows to the MSMEBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 05:13:17 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Illegal-mining-on-the-rise-in-Orissa-SGAT/4446303.htmlBHUBANESWAR: Alleging an increase inillegal mining, the Society of Geoscientists and Allied Technologies (SGAT) onSunday asked the Orissa government to quickly frame a mineral policy claimingunmined areas reserved for companies were more vulnerable to plunder."There is a significant increase in illegal mining, smuggling andtrading of iron and manganese ore since early 2008 when the prices rose to aboutRsBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 04:12:02 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/SMC-Group-to-hire-3-000-people-in-next-3-yrs/4444759.htmlDomestic brokerage firm SMC Group today said it plans to hire 3,000 professionals and open 3,500 offices in the next three years to expand network in the country.The company would invest Rs 50 crore in expansion plans."We are in process to expand our network by adding 3,500 offices to reach across the country over the next three years. We need a strong team of professionals and for this we will beBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 21:03:08 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Markets-close-higher/4447318.htmlThe markets closed in the positive zone on Friday, with a key index gaining 194 points over its previous close. The 30-scrip Sensex of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), which opened at 11,149.47 points, rose 194.06 points or 1.74 per cent from the previous close to end trade at 11,329.05 points. Similarly, the SP CNX Nifty of the National Stock Exchange (NSE) gained 1.54 per cent to close at 3,476.45BusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:55:44 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/CBI-arrests-Mahindra-Satyam-s-audit-head/4444284.htmlVENTURE INTERRUPTED: Satyam Computers is involved in a multi-crore accounting fraud.CopyrightBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 18:29:49 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/RIL-bids-for-world’s-third-largest-chemical-firm/4447187.htmlReliance Industries Ltd (RIL) has confirmed its interest in bidding for the U.S.-based company LyondellBasell, the third largest independent chemical company in the world. If it succeeds, this will be the largest ever global acquisition by an Indian firm. It, however, did not disclose the offer size.“In response to the statement issued by LyondellBasell, Reliance confirms that it has submitted to LyondellBasellBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:41:44 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Jet’s-low-fare-lollipop/4446926.htmlMarket pundits may be splitting hairs over Jet’s second low-cost service, launched on May 8, but the airline seems to have made the right connect with travellers. Jet Konnect’s booking volumes surged 27 per cent with the addition of new services on May 20, which has come as a boon for the Naresh Goyal-owned airline in the face of falling passenger volumes. With 60 Konnect flights daily, Jet’s one-fourthBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:44:06 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Metro-in-Noida-Too-stretched-inefficient/4444396.htmlIt is usually perceived to be Delhi’s only reliable and comfortablemode of transport, but the Metro’s image has become a bit battered of latewith delays and technical snags repeatedly reported from its newly-commissionedLine 3 (Dwarka Sector 9 to Noida City Centre).On Saturday morning,metro commuters faced yet another harrowing day as service was disrupted on Line3 for nearly three hours.With moreBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 18:02:04 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Crorepati-MPs-double-in-LS-average-assets-tripled-ADR/4445811.htmlThe number of MPs withassets worth over Rs one crore has doubled in the present Lok Sabha compared tothe preceding one as the average worth of assets of an MP has nearly tripled, areport has said.The number of crorepati MPs has increased from 156in 2004 to 315 in 2009, while the average worth of assets of an MP in the LowerHouse has gone up from Rs 1.86 crore to Rs 5.33 crore in the last five years,saidBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 23:31:04 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Networking-pays/4447045.htmlIt pays to be prudent, and to have State Bank of India as the parent brand. SBI Life Insurance Company Ltd., the 74:26 venture between India’s largest bank and France’s BNP Paribas Assurance, has also become the largest private sector life insurer after overtaking ICICI Prudential Life Insurance in June. According to the Insurance Regulatory Development Authority data for June 2009, SBI Life moppedBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:49:44 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Apocalypse-alert/4445526.htmlSix months is all it took to flip Europe's climate from warm and sunny into the last ice age, researchers have found. They have discovered that the northern hemisphere was plunged into a big freeze 12,800 years ago by a sudden slowdown of the Gulf Stream that allowed ice to spread hundreds of miles southwards from the Arctic. Previous research has suggested the change may have taken place over a longerBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 00:40:39 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Govt-should-implement-uniform-gold-rates-across-India/4442350.htmlKochi: With the global economic scene looking up again, the gems and jewellery industry, which was impacted by the recession, is expected to get back on track, C Vinod Hayagriv, Chairman, All India Gems and Jewellery Trade Federation, said on Saturday.The gems and jewellery industry faces numerous challenges like the rising prices of raw material and also faces constant threat of high competition fromBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 18:08:30 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/TRAI-fixes-MNP-charges-at-Rs-19/4444293.htmlIndia is all set to usher in the mobile number portability services, offering a facility to the customers to change their service provider while retaining the same number. It is likely to be put in place by January 2010 as the telecom regulator has directed operators to make adequate technical arrangements for the same.The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has decided to fix Rs. 19 as MNPBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 18:09:13 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/British-business-chiefs-seek-path-to-recovery/4444214.htmlBritain's business leaders gather here on Monday for an annual conference expected to focus on how companies can recover from the country's longest recession on record.The Confederation of British Industry (CBI), the nation's biggest employers' body, has billed its one-day gathering 'Routes to Recovery'.The worst global crisis since the 1930s has hammered consumer demand, ramped up unemployment andBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 18:11:08 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Govt-won-t-tax-capital-inflows-Ahluwalia/4444207.htmlIndia is not considering imposing a tax to curb an influx in overseas funds, and indeed wants an increase in inflows, the deputy chairman of the government's planning commission said on Friday.Foreign investors have so far bought more than USD15 billion of local equities in 2009, after selling USD13 billion in 2008, helping send Indian stocks up about 75 percent and lifting the rupee to its highestBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 18:11:08 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Steel-ministry-keeping-tab-on-imports/4444482.html"We are keeping close watch on imports and will take steps if large scale import of steel is noticed," Union Steel minister Virbhadra Singh told a news agency.The steel majors have pointed out that despite rise in demand for steel by nine per cent there has been no improvement in prices."Steel prices are a little soft due to excess capacity and dumping of steel by China and East European countries,"BusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 18:54:10 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/The-circular-flow-of-income-Part-I/4444605.htmlHouseholds own the factors of production and consume all the goods and services that the firms produce. In fact, the households perform two functions: they provide various services for production and they buy to consume.AN ECONOMY can be classified in various ways. One such way is purely theoretical. In this context, there are four sectors of an economy. These are: households, firms, government andBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 18:57:54 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/From-lingerie-to-cereals-Future-Group-pushes-private-labels/4444868.htmllingerie to breakfast cereals, the Kishore Biyani-promoted Future Group is pushing private labels aggressively to expand their share to 30% in the its total sales within two years."We will increase the average contribution of private labels from 25% to 30% in the next two years," Future Group head (Private Label) Devendra Chawla said.The group's subsidiary, Future Brands, is entering new private labelBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 19:43:00 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Free-education-for-Tamil-refugees/4444731.htmlMadras University Vice- Chancellor Dr G Thiruvasagam distributing scholarship to a student of M O P Vaishnav College for Women (Autonomous) in Chennai on Saturday‘To make higher education accessible to poor and deserving students, the University of Madras from year 2010 will provide free UG and PG education for children of Sri Lanka Tamil refugees.In three to five years, 7,000 students from the TamilBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 20:22:22 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Tata-Docomo-extends-one-paisa-per-second-offer-to-roaming-services/4445020.htmlDocomo, the GSM brand of Tata Teleservices Ltd, today extended its one paisa per second billing offer to its roaming services for both pre-paid and post-paid subscribers which will be effective from tomorrow.''From Monday, while roaming, subscribers can make calls across India at one paisa per second, across all 15 Circles where Tata Docomo has launched GSM services, regardless of which network orBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 22:01:45 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Hallmark-introduces-silver-ingots/4445474.htmlHallmark Group in association withIndian Postal Department has introduced silver ingots, platedwith 24 carat gold, depicting Mahatma Gandhi, RabindranathTagore, Satyajit Rai and yesteryears actress Madhubala.Captioned 'The Pride of India Collection', this is thefirst stamp ingot collection produced for India and itsrelease has been limited to 7,500 editions worldwide, PostalDepartment sources saidBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 23:30:33 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Deutsche-Bahn-in-Qatar-rail-deal/4446041.htmlGerman rail operator Deutsche Bahn has signed a 17bn euro ($25bn; £15bn) contract to build rail and underground lines in Qatar and Bahrain.For Qatar's capital Doha, Deutsche Bahn will design and build a four line metro system with 98 stations.A high speed train line to neighbouring Bahrain is also planned, with trains reaching speeds of 350km/h (220mph).The contract will create a new company calledBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 23:45:05 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Floods-claims-could-exceed-£100m/4446049.htmlFlood claims in Cumbria and south Scotland could exceed £100m, according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI).The ABI say it is too early to say what the total damage bill will be, but indications are that insurers have already received up to 1,000 claims.People in Cumbria are facing a massive clear-up operation after floods swept across the county.The ABI is urging those affected by the floodsBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 23:58:00 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/German-O2-to-end-roaming-deal-with-Telekom/4445628.htmlGerman mobile operator O2 plans to end its roaming agreement with Deutsche Telekom unit T-mobile at year end, O2's German head told a German newspaper."We now have a very strong network and will terminate the national roaming agreement with Deutsche Telekom at the end of the year," Rene Schuster, head of Telefonica's German O2 unit, told weeklyRoaming occurs when a mobile phone owner uses a serviceBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 00:19:00 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Jellyfish-invasion-in-a-warming-world/4445489.htmlAblood-orange blob the size of a small refrigerator emerged from the dark waters, its venomous tentacles trapped in a fishing net. Within minutes, hundreds more were being hauled up, a pulsating mass crowding out the catch of mackerel and sea bass. The fishermen leaned into the nets, grunting and grumbling as they tossed the translucent jellyfish back into the bay, giants weighing up to 200 kg, marineBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 00:19:40 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Mercury-rising/4446871.htmlAt a time when many set out for cooler climes to take their annual break from work, people like Ravinder Zutshi, Deputy Managing Director, Samsung India, are slugging it out to make the most of the blazing sun: Samsung has unleashed 18 models of split air-conditioners (ACs) and seven window ACs, and is aiming for a 50 per cent growth over last summer’s figures. Then, Samsung also has refrigerators:BusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:39:38 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Economics-of-IPL-2/4446928.htmlAs far as high drama is concerned, the second edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) definitely scored over DLF IPL-1. Whether it was the excitement over renegotiated TV rights for a record $1.6 billion (Rs 8,200 crore) by Sony or the uncertainty over DLF IPL-2 taking place at all due to security issues and subsequent shifting of the venue to South Africa, or the audacity of telecaster Sony MaxBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:44:06 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Nifty-seen-in-4840-5175-range/4446933.htmlweek gone by witnessed nervousness as unwinding was evident at higher levels. However, there was some bear-covering and fresh buying at the end of the week, which saw the week ending with net gains over the previous week. The charge was led by the CNX IT index as weakness in rupee saw concerted buying in technology stocks. Banking and mid-cap stocks brought up the rear. The Nifty gained Rs 45,989 croreBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:31:00 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Ethanol-factories-set-to-whir-back-to-life/4446944.htmlremaining shut for two years, ethanol factories in the country are readying to whir again. With crude prices spiking again to $80 per barrel levels and the government cracking down on the 5% blending requirement, oil companies have been negotiating with sugar producers for supply of ethanol."We think it will take one more meeting, but the broad contours were worked out last week with the oil ministryBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:39:00 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/What-if-recovery-is-all-in-your-head/4447254.htmlproblem might be put this way: There is still a nagging doubt afloat that the current event is really just another example in that long sequence of recessions.People walk by and look at the Macy’s Christmas windows displays in New York City. Retailers are hoping the holiday shopping season will deliver a boost in sales following a dismal year in the midst of a recession.Beyond fiscal stimulus and governmentBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:43:05 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/TDS-by-banks-on-cumulative-deposits/4447190.htmlis a provision in the accounts and not a credit to the depositor’s account so that the question of debit of such tax should not arise.I am a subscriber of a cumulative deposit for three years. Since I am an income-tax assessee, I cannot file Form 15H to avoid tax deduction. But all the same, I am liable to account for the income only on the date of maturity, not only because I am adopting cash basisBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:43:05 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Bucking-the-downturn/4446922.htmlStock markets have a mind of their own and, very often, get a whiff of events before they actually unfold. Consider this: in October last year, the BSE Sensex sank to a new yearly low well ahead of the December earnings season. Analysts attributed it to jitters on Dalal Street about India Inc.’s performance in the quarter. Not surprisingly, the results were below par. Now since March, the benchmarkBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:44:06 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Disney’s-India-Walt-z/4446923.htmlIn July this year, the world’s second-largest entertainment company, The Walt Disney Company, will be completing five years in India, but it seems it hasn’t had much of a go at one of the fastest-growing consumer markets in the world yet. Disney India still trails its global rival Turner in revenues and reach in India in the space that it is most visible: kids television programming. Its share in theBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:44:06 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/100-day-dos/4446925.htmlWhat is it about 100 days that excites the imagination of everyone? Last few weeks “the first 100 days” were clearly in news. First, it was President Obama completing those many days in office without discrediting the hype that preceded him to the Oval office. Next, our own Prime Minister promised panacea for economic woes in a similar span of time—another “first 100 days” for him after five yearsBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:44:06 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Licence-to-download/4446927.htmlIt’s perhaps the Indian music industry’s best chance to rid itself of the scourge of piracy. In what is being touted as the first of its kind in the world, the Indian Music Industry (IMI), the entertainment industry body in India, has launched Music Mobile Exchange (MMX) with the express purpose of directly curbing the problem of mobile chip piracy (illegal download of music content on to mobile phoneBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:44:06 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Relics-in-boardrooms/4446930.htmlAs the fourth quarter results keep coming in and the annual general meetings (AGMs) follow in the coming months, the question of what role should an independent director (ID) play in the conduct of the meetings remains alive— what with the perception having gained ground in the wake of the Satyam fraud that IDs did not do their jobs properly. The key question then is: Have things changed in the boardrooms?BusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:44:06 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Thanjavur-fire-service-personnel-excel-in-sports/4447183.htmlThanjavur: The Fire and Rescue Service Personnel of Thanjavur division won the overall shield in the Tamil Nadu Fire Service Centenary Games and Sports events held for nine divisions here on Saturday.M.S. Shanmugham, Collector, handed over the shield to the personnel of the Thanjavur division at Annai Sathya stadium, where the games and sports were held for the past three days. He recalled the servicesBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:44:23 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Groomed-for-the-big-league/4447063.htmlWith no double entendres, cheap jokes or tears the Star Singer show for kids has turned hugely popular. PREMA MANMADHAN finds how this was made possibleTeamwork The success of the music show is largely because of the camaraderie between the contestants, judges and the hostNo kidstuff this, all will agree, if you have watched Munch Star Singer shows on the Asianet channel on weekends. What differentiatesBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:46:43 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Index-funds-vs-active-funds/4447022.htmlWith their low expense charges and large cap market exposure, index funds mirror the economy's performance really well. Market experts often recommend index funds to investors who want to take a first-time exposure to the stock market. As these funds invest and hold the same stocks as, say, the Sensex, in a similar proportion as it is calculated in the index, they are fairly standard products. TheirBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:47:31 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Jagan-eyes-Pulivendula-ticket/4447412.htmlEncouraged by the response to his roadshows during the campaign for the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) elections, Congress MP Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy is now planning to approach the central leadership to seek the party ticket for Pulivendula Assembly constituency where byelection is due next month.On Sunday, Ministers – Jupally Krishna Rao, K. Parathasarathy and Balineni SrinivasuluBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:53:15 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Reliance-Industries-net-down-1-per-cent/4447316.htmlIndia's largest private sector company, the Mukesh Ambani-controlled Reliance Industries, on Thursday reported a 1 per cent drop in net profits for the quarter ended March 31 at Rs 3,874 crore (Rs 38.74 billion or $774.8 million). The turnover of the oil refining to retail major also dipped nearly 24 per cent at Rs 29,073 crore for the fourth quarter in what had been a difficult year for oil refiningBusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:55:44 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Jet-Airways-cuts-salaries-of-370-employees/4447319.htmlIndia's leading private carrier Jet Airways on Friday said it has cut salaries of at least 370 senior employees as the airline was bleeding on account of falling traffic and rising operational costs. "We have temporarily imposed a reduction in salaries for the management cadre. This will affect about 370 employees," the spokesperson for the airlines told IANS. The salary cut, of up to 25 per cent,BusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:55:44 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Global-recession-not-to-see-bottom-till-year-end-RBI/4447323.htmlWarning that the worst may not be over yet, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor, D. Subbarao, has said the global economic recession may not only continue through 2009 but could prolong beyond that. "Even with current levels of policy intensity, the trough of the global recession is not seen until the end of 2009 and could get pushed out further if the policy responses fail to gain traction,"BusinessMon, 23 Nov 2009 07:55:44 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Himalya-Fresh-team-gives-out-tips-for-health-during-oncoming-winter/4443264.htmlHimalya International came forth to our readers and gave some health tips to women. The management of this company which exports most of its health products, came up with unique tips through which women can maintain their bodies to a level of the greatest fitness. Usually, women find it hard to balance their work and family oriented responsibilities? This is usually the time when women think aboutBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 09:45:22 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Indian-companies-catch-up-on-value-of-investing-in-IT/4443265.htmlInformation Technology is a tool, which makes or breaks an organisation. Rather, the use of the same in a judicious or foolhardy manner decides the fate of the company's future. Indian companies have realised this. A lot of delegates were present in Munich lately during the conference on latest trends of technology organised and hosted by Fujitsu India. Currently, companies have moved beyond the bareBusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 09:45:22 GMThttp://24dunia.com/english-news/shownews/4/Indian-entertainment-companies-are-going-places-in-Hollywood/4443708.htmlReliance Big Entertainment's creative partnership with Hollywood star Brad Pitt's Plan B Entertainment and Capcom, a leading worldwide developer and publisher of video games, have joined hands to develop a Sci-Fi thriller based on Capcoms New Video Game Franchise.Sources in the BIG Pictures said Brad Pitts production company Plan B Entertainment, under its Creative Partnership with Reliance BIG Entertainment,BusinessSun, 22 Nov 2009 15:21:46 GMThttp://std.webdunia.com/news/img/1.2/wdn_logo.gifhttp://24dunia.com128px64px