India—Connects - High Commission of India, Colombo

BILATERAL BEATSigning of the Memorandum of the Understanding (MoU) betweenthe Government of India and the Government of Sri Lanka and Awarding of the 42ITEC Scholarships to the Teachers of EnglishA Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on 13th September, 2011 in Colombo betweenthe Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the Democratic Socialist Republicof Sri Lanka for Setting Up of a Three-Tier English Language Training System in Sri Lanka. The MOUwas signed by Hon. Bandula Gunawardhana, Minister of Education, on behalf of Government of Sri Lankaand H.E. Mr. Ashok K. Kantha, High Commissioner of India on behalf of Government of India. The signingceremony was attended by Mr. Sunimal Fernando, Advisor to H.E. the President and Convenor, PresidentialTask Force on English & IT, Mr. H. M. Gunasekera, Secretary, Ministry of Education, officials from SriLankan Ministries of External Affairs and Education and large number of teachers, official from all the nineProvinces of Sri Lanka. Faculty members from the English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU),Hyderabad were also present.The MoU will implement the project entitled “India-Sri Lanka Project for Expanding English LanguageTraining in Sri Lanka”. The Government of India shall utilize the services of EFLU, Hyderabad asthe technical consultant for this Project. As part of the technical assistance under the MOU, the Governmentof India will provide training to 42 Sri Lankan teachers at EFLU under the ITEC programme; provideappropriate equipment and teaching aids for setting up a language laboratory of 30 units in each of thenine Provincial Sri Lanka India Centres for English Language Training (PSLICELTs) and depute expertsfrom EFLU to assist the PSLICELTs. The training of 42 Sri Lankan teachers have already begun atEFLU from 19 September, 2011.The technical assistance for English language training programme is being implemented byGovernment of India as part of the initiative of the H.E. the President of Sri Lanka to develop “English as aLife Skill”. In March 2010, Sri Lanka- India Centre for English Language Training (SLICELT) was set up inPeradeniya with the assistance of the Government of India. A digital language laboratory was set up atSLICELT, Peradeniya and training to 80 Sri Lankan English Teachers were provided at EFLU, Hyderabad.High Commissioner of India in his address said that the MoU signed will further expand cooperationbetween India and Sri Lanka in English language training. High Commissionernoted that India was honoured and privileged to be a part of the importantinitiative of the H.E. the President of Sri Lanka. India and Sri Lankaare close neigbhours and are uniquely placed to learn from each other experienceas partners in development. He added that EFLU, Hyderabad isa leading institution of its kind and a centre of excellence to teach Englishto non- native speakers. Highlighting the importance of learning Englishlanguage in today‟s globalized world, High Commissioner appreciated theapproach of the project for imparting training in English as a “tool of empowerment”.Previous Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

BILATERAL BEATNTPC and CEB sign Joint Venture and Shareholder Agreement in Sri Lanka, to set up a500 MW Power Station in Tricomalee, Sri LankaNTPC Limited, the largest power generation utility of India and Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB)signed the Joint Venture and Shareholder Agreement today in Colombo for setting up a 500 MW (2 X 250MW) coal based power station at Sampur, Trincomalee in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka.The JV Agreement was signed by Mr. Arup Roy Choudhury, CMD, NTPC and Prof. WimaladharmaAbeywickreme, Chairman, CEB for their respective organizations in the presence of Hon. PataliChampika Ranawaka, Minister of Power & Energy, Government of Sri Lanka, H.E. Ashok K. Kantha, HighCommissioner of India, Mr. P. Uma Shankar, Secretary (Power), Government of India and Mr. M.M.C.Ferdinando, Secretary (Power & Energy ) Government of Sri Lanka.The Project is a landmark in bilateral economic cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. ThisProject will go on stream by 2016 and meet growing demand for power in Sri Lanka. Land for the projectshall be provided by the Government of Sri Lanka to the Joint Venture Company on long term lease. Thecoal for the project shall be imported and supplied by Lanka Coal Company (LCC). The power generatedshall be supplied to CEB through CEB grid system. The capacity of the Project may be enhanced by another500 MW in future. A Joint Venture Company (JVC) will be incorporated in Sri Lanka, with equal equity(50:50) contributions by NTPC and CEB, for implementation of the Power Project. The JVC companycalled Trincomalee Power Company Limited was incorporated in Sri Lanka on 26 September,2011. The JVC will shortly sign other Agreements including Power Purchase Agreement with CEB, Boardof Investment Agreement with Board of Investment and Implementation Agreement with Government ofSri Lanka. These Agreements have already been finalized.Speaking on the occasion H.E. Ashok K. Kantha, HighCommissioner said that it was the largest Joint Venture projectbeing undertaken by the two countries. He noted that CEB andNTPC are premier institutions in their countries and have cometogether as equal partners to form the Joint Venture Company.High Commissioner said that the cooperation between the twocompanies would take the bilateral economic cooperation to anew level.In his address, Mr. P. Uma Shankar, Secretary (Power),Government of India said that signing of the Joint Venture andShareholder Agreement between CEB and NTPC was a „historicoccasion‟ and the project will have full support of Government ofIndia. He mentioned that project would be completed by mid of2016.High Commissioner Ashok K. Kanthadelivering an address at the occasion.Previous Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

BILATERAL BEATSecond Jaipur Foot Artificial Limb Fitment Camp Organized in Sri LankaThe Jaipur Foot Artificial Limb Fitment camp, fully funded by Government of India, was organizedby the Jaipur-based Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS) from 03-30 September at DivisionalHospital Kondavil, Jaffna. This was the second camp organized in Sri Lanka, in line with the Governmentof India‟s commitment to provide relief, rehabilitation and resettlement of the people affected bythe armed conflict in Northern Sri Lanka. The camp served beneficiaries from across Sri Lanka with oneof the world‟s best and cheapest artificial limbs, the famous “Jaipur Foot”. It was formally jointly inauguratedby Hon‟ble G.A. Chandrasiri, Governor of the Northern Province and Mr. V. Mahalingam, the ConsulGeneral of India in Jaffna, on 5th September.The camp was run by a team of 20 experts from BMVSS and provided services to 1163 beneficiariesin all. The devices provided included 535 prosthesis (limbs), 228 orthosis (calipers) and 400 crutches.A similar camp had been organized last year in Zone 1 of Menik Farm in Vavuniya district and had fittedartificial limbs and other devices to 1400 beneficiaries in all. [1087 prosthesis (limbs) 123 orthosis(calipers) and 190 crutches]. The camp this year was organized in Jaffna as a goodwill gesture by theGovernment of India, after the Sri Lankan Government lauded the efforts at the Vavuniya camp last year..BMVSS is the world‟s largest organization providing support to physically challenged persons. Itis noteworthy that a few members of the technical team for the Jaffna camp themselves were physicallychallenged persons. They were rehabilitated by BMVSS and provided with jobs. Today they are highlyskilled technicians.BMVSS has so far conducted such camps in nearly twenty five countries and in all, nearly 20,000people in these countries have benefitted from the Jaipur Foot or the Jaipur knee. So far, a total of over1.2 million people have been provided with artificial limbs and calipers byBMVSS, in India and elsewhere.It is a matter of great satisfaction to the Government of India that theBMVSS camps organized in Sri Lanka, with assistance from the Sri Lankan Government,have helped the beneficiaries regain their mobility, dignity, and in manycases, sustenance.Previous Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

BILATERAL BEATIndia to provide 10,000 bicycles to returnees in Northern Province under grant assistanceAs part of our development partnership with Sri Lanka and in response to requirements projectedby the Government of Sri Lanka, the Government of India is undertaking a project for providing 10,000 bicycles(both gents and ladies) to returnees, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) as well as refugees, in the fivedistricts of Northern Province. The objective of the project is to cater to the transportation needs of personsbeing resettled and to aid revival of their livelihoods. It is expected that provision of a bicycle to the resettledfamilies will provide the necessary mobility and facilitate access to essential services. The intended beneficiariesare being selected from the most vulnerable of the returnees.In discussions with the Government of Sri Lanka, a bicycle was identified as the item which is mostneeded to enhance and anchor return and is utilised by the entire community irrespective of age, gender orcultural diversities. Necessary support was extended to the High Commission of India by the agencies of theGovernment of Sri Lanka, in particular the Presidential Task Force for Rehabilitation, Security and Developmentof Northern Province and the Ministry of Infrastructure, Northern Province in the process of identificationand selection of a suitable supplier.The High Commission has awarded the contract in this regard to a leading Indian manufacturer andthe supply of bicycles is expected to commence by early November 2011. The supplier has also undertakento set up a permanent assembly plant in Vavuniya, which will be used not only for the fulfillment of this supplybut also to provide employment to local people on a continuing basis. The total cost of the project is aboutSLR 67 million.India has been supporting projects for rehabilitation and resettlement of displaced persons in theNorthern Province in the areas of shelter (through roofing sheets and cement bags), health-care (providingemergency medical relief, organizing artificial limbs refitment camps and equipping hospitals), livelihood generation(provision of fishing equipment, tractors, agricultural equipment and seeds) and education (repairs ofschools and setting up of vocational training centres).Previous Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

Spotlight Continues: Education & TrainingAccording to the report, the size of the education sector currently is pegged at US$ 25 billion, withhigher education market estimated at US$ 15 billion. The government is planning to spend about five per centof gross domestic product (GDP) in the next five years on education, as per the study.The education sector in India is witnessing growth in private equity (PE) investment, according toHDFC. The company plans to foray into the sector, which according to Keki Mistry, Vice Chairman and ChiefExecutive Officer, HDFC, has touched US$ 190 million in 2010.The education sector is also witnessing increase in hiring activities as per the employment indicesof online job portals Naukri.com and Monster India. In the month of June 2010, the indices for Monster Indiaand Naukri.com went up by 9 per cent and 10 per cent, respectively.India was ranked number 4 on the list of the top 10 preferred destinations for B-school aspirants,according to the findings of a survey conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC).Further, according to a worldwide survey of 'Universal Business Schools with major international influence,'conducted by French consulting firm SMBG amongst deans of 1000 business schools, the Indian Institute ofManagement Bangalore (IIM-B) has been ranked 24th while IIM-Ahmedabad ranked 55th.Technical Education in IndiaTaking a step further, the government has approved the intended investment of US$ 519 million toinitiate the second phase of the Technical Education Quality Improvement Programme (TEQIP).Of the total project expenditure of US$ 519 million in the second phase, the World Bank will contributeUS$ 298 million, the Centre's contribution according to 11th Five-Year Plan is US$ 106.8 million, whilethe states and private unaided institutions will invest US$ 110.7 million and US$ 3.42 million, respectively.The project will be open for competition and participation by all the engineering institutions approved by theAICTE.The TEQIP scheme has been on since 2003, with World Bank's assistance. The scheme was envisagedas a long-term programme of about 10-12 years, to be implemented in three phases for transformationof the technical education system. The first phase of TEQIP ended on March 31, 2009, covering 127 institutionsin 13 states.E-LearningMr Kapil Sibal, Union Minister for Human Resource Developmenthas announced government's plans to launch a scheme, which would bringin information, communication and technology (ICT) into elementary education.The scheme which is likely to be on the lines of the ICT scheme forhigher education, would focus on the development of e-contents which wouldbe used by students at primary and upper-primary classes for learning purposes.The Minister has recently unveiled a US$ 35 low-cost computer inan attempt to revolutionise classroom education across the country. The deviceallows students to write and store text, browse the Internet and view videos,among other regular features. Educomp Solutions has announced anagreement with China Distance Education Holdings Ltd (CDEL), a providerof online education in China, granting the latter exclusive rights to licenceand distribute Educomp's products in China (excluding Hong Kong, Macauand Taiwan).Previous Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

Spotlight Continues: Education & TrainingTrainingThe training industry in India is a sunrise industry with a lot of potential.IndiaCan Education Private Limited, a 50:50 joint venture with Educomp Solutions Limited and US-basedPearson Education, plans to open 250 centres across India by the end of this financial year. It aims attraining over 500,000 persons annually and to make them 'ready-to-deploy' in the industry by 2012."Currently with 50 centres, we plan a pan-India network of more than 600 vocational training centres inthe next 12-18 months. Each centre can realistically enroll about 1,000 students," as per SrinathVenkatesh, Vice-President (sales, marketing and operations), IndiaCanRecently, Sharekhan and California-based Online Trading Academy have entered into a joint venture toprovide trading and investing education in India.Core Projects and Technologies Ltd has signed an MoU with Gujarat Knowledge Society (GKS) to impartjob-oriented skill upgradation courses to students from various disciplines in colleges across Ahmedabadand Surat districts.Tata Consultancy Services Ltd (TCS) is opening its first learning and development centre for its campustrainees. The new centre is equipped to train 6,000 professionals in a year.HCL Technologies Ltd has announced a tie-up with the business process outsourcing (BPO) training institute,Orion Edutech. As per the agreement, Orion will customise its Diploma in BPO Management(DIBM) to suit HCL's industry specific talent requirement.Foreign Institutes in IndiaMany overseas business schools have come to India seeking a big revenue boost, and a chance tounderstand the concerns of a developing economy. In order to regulate the operation and entry of foreigneducational institutions in India, the government has introduced the Foreign Educational Institutions(Regulation of Entry and Operations) Bill, 2010, in the lower house of the Parliament on May 3, 2010. Earlier,the Bill was cleared by the Union Cabinet, which proposes to allow foreign education providers to establishcampuses in the country and offer degrees as well.Global FootprintsIndian institutes are now collaborating and establishing offshore campuses in order to increase theirglobal footprints. The Institute of Clinical Research India (ICRI), has entered into a strategic-cum-academicalliance with the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) to offer two new courses - Masters in HealthAdministration and Master of Science in Clinical Research will be offered through ICRI's six campuses inDelhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Dehradun and Bangalore, apart from its overseas campuses inSingapore and the UK.Investments and Other DevelopmentsThe education sector is one of the thrust areas for investments as emphasis is being laid on revampingthe systems through increasing investments.According to the Kaizen Education Report released by Kaizen Mgmt Advisors, the pre-school segmentis worth an estimated US$ 500 million currently and is expected to grow to US$ 1 billion in the next twoyears. Further, the segment is growing at a compounded annual rate (CAGR) of 30 per cent.International university endowment funds have stepped up their presence in the Indian stock markets tocash in on the high returns. The number of such funds investing in India has increased from six in 2008 toaround 20 in 2010, as per Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) data.Previous Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

Spotlight Continues: Education & TrainingThe Road AheadIndia at present requires about 50,000 clinical research professionals and 1,500 personnel in alliedservices such as clinical data management, biostatistics and medical welfare. Besides, the governmenthas also introduced three bills in the Parliament: The National Accreditation Regulatory Authority forHigher Educational Institutions Bill, 2010 postulates thatevery higher educational institution and every programmeconducted by it should require accreditation in the mannerprovided in the proposed legislation. The Educational Tribunals Bill, 2010 provides for the establishmentof the State Educational Tribunals and the NationalEducation Tribunal. The National Education Tribunalwould exercise power and authority over any dispute betweena higher educational institution and any appropriatestatutory regulatory body and all other matters pertaining tohigher education. In yet another foray, India has allowed private-sector healthcare companies such as Fortis Healthcare,Max Healthcare and Apollo Hospitals to start medical colleges. Furthermore, India's cabinet approved aproposal to allow foreign universities to set up local campuses, part of long-standing plan to reform theeducation sector.The National Development Council has approved setting up of 14 world-class universities for innovationacross the 11th and 12th plan periods on the public private partnership model. The innovation universitiesare part of the ministry of human resource development's (MHRD) "brain gain" policy to attractglobal talent and will be set up under the eleventh plan (2007-12). Further, the Government has agreed tospend US$ 675.90 million during the 11th Plan period for setting up 13 new Central universities and convertingthree existing State universities into Central universities.Mr Kapil Sibal, Union Minister of Human Resource Development, plans to create a national vocationaleducational framework within one year.Source: www.ibef.orgPrevious Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

BILATERAL ECONOMYDabur Enters Sri Lanka; Sets Up New Beverage VentureNatural health and personal care firm Dabur India Ltd. announcedsetting up of an overseas subsidiary - Dabur Lanka (Pvt.)Ltd., thus making an entry into Sri Lanka. Dabur India announced thatit would invest $15 million in Sri Lanka to set up a new export -orientedbeverage manufacturing plant to cash in on the rising demand for fruitbasedbeverages.Dabur India makes health and hair care products underthe brand 'Dabur' and 'Vatika' and fruit-beverages under'Real'. Dabur Lanka has signed an agreement with the Boardof Investment (BOI) of Sri Lanka to establish this venture. Thecompany will invest $15 million (Rs.70 crore) to establish anew export-oriented manufacturing facility for producing arange of fruit-based beverages in Gampaha, north of Colombo.The new manufacturing facility, with a capacity t produce 2.8lakh cases of fruit-based beverages every month, will be commissionedin August-September next year.The plant, once operational, will employ around 75 people, and gradually increase it to around 200employees by 2013-14. It will also offer the opportunity of providing indirect employment opportunities forthousands of persons in this country. Chief Executive Officer Sunil Duggal said, "The demand for our fruitbasedjuices and beverages under the Real brand has been reporting strong growth month-on-month.Dabur's Food business has reported an over 28 percent growth in 2010-11 despite the supply constraints.As continued high growth is expected in the future too, we are setting up this new facility to augment ourproduction capacity for fruit-based beverages and meet the growing demand for our products." Dabur hasmanufacturing plants in Nepal, Bangladesh, Dubai, Nigeria, Egypt and Turkey among others.Bilateral tradeBilateral trade turnover amounted to about US$ 3.26 billion during the period January-August 2011.During this period, Sri Lanka's exports to India were about US$ 366.75 million; and imports from India wereabout US$ 2.9 billion. Between January-August 2011, Sri Lanka's import from India amounted to US$ 393.44million and exports to India aggregated US$ 46.85 million.Source: Sri Lanka Customs, www.customs.gov.lkTourist Arrivals from India to Sri LankaThe number of tourist arrivals in first nine months of 2011 to Sri Lanka is 598,006. This is 34% increasecompared to the same period last year. The number of tourist arrivals from India to Sri Lanka betweenJan-Sep 2011 is 120,530 which is approximately 20% of the total tourist arrival into Sri Lanka. In correspondingperiod last year 82,342 tourists form India visited Sri Lanka, which amounts to an increase of 46.4%.Source: Sri Lanka Tourism Development Board, www.sltda.gov.lkPrevious Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

BILATERAL ECONOMYManufacturers cannot afford to be nationalistic – Dr. AmunugamaDomestic market small, purchasing power limitedCEPA, trade agreements for best interest of the countryDr. Sarath Amunugama, Senior Minister for International Monetary Cooperationaddressing a seminar on „2011 and Beyond: Trade and Investment Prospectsin Asia and Implications for Sri Lanka‟ organised by the Institute of PolicyStudies said that being nationalistic will not help Sri Lanka as the domestic marketis limited in both size and purchasing power. This warning comes as the country‟straditional Western export markets continue to face uncertain futures as their economies continue to be dismal.He said that the country‟s manufacturers would have to eventually reckon with the market. "How manyshampoos or biscuits could we produce for the domestic market? We could probably just last, but we wouldbe working in a narrow front. Industries have to be competitive. We cannot afford to be nationalistic, becausethe domestic market is limited in terms of size and purchasing power.”Dr. Amunugama said that the country‟s manufacturers would have to sooner or later make a choice;continue to be nationalistic and service a limited, narrow domestic market, or make inroads into India, Pakistan,Bangladesh, China and Russia, home to large middle class populations, and these markets are stillgrowing. "We need to look carefully at the various trade agreements we have entered into for concessionsthat are yet to be exploited. We are very fortunate that we are neighbouring large markets such as India,Pakistan and Bangladesh. We already have agreements with these countries (FTAs and the SAFTA)."People do not talk about the FTA with Pakistan as they do with regards to the agreement with India. Whynot find fault with the agreement with Pakistan also? We were to enter into a Comprehensive Economic PartnershipAgreement (CEPA) with India. This is something we all need to look at in the best interest of thecountry," Dr. Amunugama said. His mention of shampoo and biscuits no doubt alludes to the two companiesthat are in the forefront of opposing the CEPA with India. Spokesman for the company have gone as far asto accuse fellow Sri Lankans who see the benefits of a carefully crafted CEPA as being traitors. "We need toget into the supply chains of these countries because we in South Asia manufacture the same thing, becauseour economies are geared to be so. The hopes of attracting investors to our free trade zones (tomanufacture to the domestic market) are political fantasies. I do not think this is the way forward," he argued."Intraregional trade is pretty dismal at the moment. We need to look the existing agreements and tariffsclosely. This is the way forward, not by being nationalistic. If we had a large domestic economy, then it isgood, but we are not in a position to be nationalistic." "Good governance, energy and connectivity have to beimproved but we are moving toward it," Dr. Amunugama said. Many of the trade agreements entered in to bySri Lanka remain largely underutilised. Economists argue that ordinary people should have the right tochoose, that depriving them of better quality or cheaper products went against the principle of democracy.[ Source: The Island newspaper, dated 14 September, 2011]Previous Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

VISIT INDIAThe Golden Temple, located in the city of Amritsar in the state of Punjab,is a place of great beauty and sublime peacefulness. Originally a small lakein the midst of a quiet forest, the site has been a meditation retreat for wanderingmendicants and sages since deep antiquity.The Harmandir Sahib (or Hari Mandir) in Amritsar, is the holiest shrinein Sikhism. Previously known as the Golden Temple, it was officially renamedHarmandir Sahib in March 2005. The temple is a major pilgrimage destinationfor Sikhs from all over the world, as well as an increasingly popular tourist attraction.The Golden Temple of Amritsar is still fully alive with religious fervorand sacredness, and visitors are welcomed to join in the experience. Althoughthe building itself has great historical and architectural interest, it is the GoldenTemple's great spiritual meaning for Sikh believers (and others) that is mostmemorable to visitors. In a country that is exceptionally rich with vibrant devotion,Frommer's rates the Golden Temple "the most tangibly spiritual place in thecountry."The temple at night surrounded by the holy pool of water . The temple iscovered with REAL gold plating and looks nothing short of stunning when lit atnight.ArchitectureIts architecture represents a unique harmony between the Muslimsand the Hindus way of construction work and this is considered thebest architectural specimens of the world. It is often quoted that this architecturehas created an independent Sikh school of architecture in the historyof art in India.Detail of the Golden Temple,which is covered in real goldIn the early 19th century, 100 kg ofgold were applied to the inverted lotus-shapeddome and decorative marble was added. Allthis gold and marble work took place under thepatronage of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. There arefour main doors to the Golden Temple. Thesedoors are all symbolic of the Sikh philosophythat all religions are created equal and nobodywould be discriminated based on cast, creed,colour and religion.Despite its great sacred status, the Golden Temple is open to visitors,like all Sikh temples. The only restrictions are that visitors must notdrink alcohol, eat meat or smoke in the shrine. Most visitors to the GoldenGold inside the templeTemple, whether Sikh or not, are humbled by what is quite simply themost tangibly spiritual place in the country.Arrive with a few good hours set aside and get lost in its magical beauty.Visitors must leave their shoes at the facility near the entrance, cover theirhead (bandanas are provided, or you can buy a souvenir bandana from avendor), and wash their feet by wading through the shallow pool before entering.The Harmandir Sahib at nightPrevious Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

VISIT INDIAFestivals and EventsEvery night, the Granth Sahib is carried in procession alongthis bridge to its "bed" in the Akal Takht, the seat of the Sikh parliament(built 1609). Called the Palki Sahib, this nightly ceremony providesa chance for all male pilgrims and visitors to actively participatein the veneration of the Holy Book. Lines form in front of andbehind the heavy palanquin and each man shoulders the burden fora few seconds before passing it along, forming a human conveyerbelt that allows everyone to participate and everyone to rest. Theceremony usually takes place at 11pm in summer at 9:30pm in winter.Other Tourist AttractionsPutting the holy book to bed at nightDurgiana Temple: Situated outside the Lohgarh Gate it is built after the design of the Golden Temple andattracts sages and scholars in Hindu scriptures from all over India.Jallian Wala BaghAmritsar Massacre: This place noted for its most notorious massacre under British rule. Itis 400 meters north of the Golden Temple.Ram BaghThis beautiful garden is named as a tribute to Guru Ram Das, the founder of the city. It issituated in the new part of town and has a museum in the summer palace built by the SikhMaharaja Ranjit Singh (1780-1839) the Lion of Punjab.Bathinda Fort : known to have a history of more than 1800 years, the fort comprises of a Gurudwara.Wagha Border: is situated between Amritsar and Lahore. It is the only road bordercrossing between India and Pakistan. The pomp and pageantry of the Beating Retreatand the Change of Guard within handshakingdistance of the Indian and Pakistaniforces makes for a most charming spectacle.The India-Pakistan border is also called „Attari-Wagah‟ border.It is an interesting experience to visit the WagahBorder at the time of sunset, when theRetreat ceremony takes place with the BorderSecurity Force on the Indian side and on thePakistan side, the Sutlej Rangers putting up aspectacular and a well coordinated display ofchanging guards.TradeThere are a number of cotton, woolen and art silk textile factories besides other industries dealingwith electric goods, sewing machines, auto parts, carpets. The milk processing plant at Verka about 6 kmsfrom the center is the second biggest project of its kind in the country. Amritsar is India´s leading exporter ofgoods to the Middle-East, leading distribution centre of dry fruits, tea and condiments. It is also a shopper´sparadise and a gourmet´s delight. Amritsar is the world´s leading centre of Punjabi publications.Source: www.wikipedia.orgPrevious Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

INDIAN ECONOMYThe Economy of India is the ninth largest in the world by nominal GDP and the fourth largest bypurchasing power parity (PPP). Following strong economic reforms from the post-independence socialisteconomy, the country's economic growth progressed at a rapid pace, as free market principles were initiatedin 1991 for international competition and foreign investment.Industry and ServicesIndia has one of the world's fastest growing automobile industries.Industry accounts for 28% of the GDP and employ 14% of the total workforce.In absolute terms, India is 12th in the world in terms of nominal factoryoutput. The Indian industrial sector underwent significant changes as a resultof the economic reforms of 1991, which removed import restrictions, broughtin foreign competition, led to privatization of certain public sector industries,liberalized the FDI regime, improved infrastructure and led to an expansion inthe production of fast moving consumer goods. Post-liberalisation, the Indianprivate sector was faced with increasing domestic as well as foreign competition,including the threat of cheaper Chinese imports. It has since handledShown here is the Tata Nano, the change by squeezing costs, revamping management, and relying onthe world's cheapest car.cheap labour and new technology. However, this has also reduced employmentgeneration even by smaller manufacturers who earlier relied on relatively labour-intensive processes.Textile manufacturing is the second largest source of employment after agriculture and accountsfor 20% of manufacturing output, providing employment to over 20 million people. By 2012, still convinced ofthe government, this figure will reach 38 billion as expected; these investments in 2012 will create an additionalsector of more than 17 million jobs.Ludhiana produces 90% of woollens in India and is known as the Manchester of India. Tirupur hasgained universal recognition as the leading source of hosiery, knitted garments, casual wear and sportswear.India is 13th in services output. The services sector provides employment to 23% of the work force.The growth in the IT sector is attributed to increased specialisation, and an availability of a large pool of lowcost, highly skilled, educated and fluent English-speaking workers, on the supply side, matched on the demandside by increased demand from foreign consumers interested in India's service exports, or those lookingto outsource their operations.Mining forms an important segment of the Indian economy, with the country producing 79 differentminerals (excluding fuel and atomic resources), including iron ore, manganese, mica, bauxite, chromite, limestone,asbestos, fluorite, gypsum, ochre, phosphorite and silica sand.AgricultureIndia is the second largest producer of rice in the world after China, and Andhra Pradesh is the secondlargest rice producing state in India with Uttar Pradesh being the largest.India ranks second worldwide in farm output. Yields per unit area of allcrops have grown since 1950, due to the special emphasis placed on agriculturein the five-year plans and steady improvements in irrigation, technology,application of modern agricultural practices and provision of agricultural creditand subsidies since the Green Revolution in India.Previous Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

INDIAN ECONOMYHowever, international comparisons reveal the average yield in India is generally 30% to 50% of thehighest average yield in the world. Indian states Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, AndhraPradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Maharashtra are key agricultural contributing states of India.India is the largest producer in the world of milk, jute and pulses, and also has the world's secondlargest cattle population with 175 million animals in 2008. It is the second largest producer of rice, wheat,sugarcane, cotton and groundnuts, as well as the second largest fruit and vegetable producer, accountingfor 10.9% and 8.6% of the world fruit and vegetable production respectively. India is also the second largestproducer and the largest consumer of silk in the world.Banking and FinanceThe Indian money market is classified into the organised sector,comprising private, public and foreign owned commercial banks and cooperativebanks, together known as scheduled banks, and the unorganisedsector, which includes individual or family owned indigenous bankers ormoney lenders and non-banking financial companies. The unorganised sectorand microcredit are still preferred over traditional banks in rural and suburbanareas, especially for non-productive purposes, like ceremonies andshort duration loans.Since liberalisation, the government has approved significant banking reforms. While some of theserelate to nationalised banks, like encouraging mergers, reducing government interference and increasingprofitability and competitiveness, other reforms have opened up the banking and insurance sectors to privateand foreign players.Energy and PowerIndia's oil reserves meet 25% of the country's domestic oil demand.Oil and natural gas fields are located offshore at Mumbai High,Krishna Godavari Basin and the Cauvery Delta, and onshore mainly inthe states of Assam, Gujarat and Rajasthan. India is the fourth largestconsumer of oil in the world.The petroleum industry in India mostly consists of public sectorcompanies such as Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), HindustanPetroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and Indian Oil Corporation Limited(IOCL). There are some major private Indian companies in the oil sector such as Reliance IndustriesLimited (RIL) which operates the world's largest oil refining complex.India economy, the third largest economy in the world, in terms of purchasing power, is going totouch new heights in coming years. As predicted by Goldman Sachs, the Global Investment Bank, by 2035India would be the third largest economy of the world just after US and China. It will grow to 60% of size ofthe US economy. This booming economy of today has to pass through many phases before it can achievethe current milestone of 9% GDP.Previous Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

INDIAN ECONOMYChallenges before Indian economy:Population explosionPovertyUnemploymentRural urban divideThese challenges can be overcome by the sustained and planned economic reforms.These include: Maintaining fiscal discipline Orientation of public expenditure towards sectors in which India is faring badly such as health and education. Introduction of reforms in labour laws to generate more employment opportunities for the growing populationof India. Reorganization of agricultural sector, introduction of new technology, reducing agriculture's dependenceon monsoon by developing means of irrigation. Introduction of financial reforms including privatization of some public sector banks.Emergence of India as a key global economy by 2050India will be one of the seven economies that will lead the rise of Asia.These seven economies alone will account for 45 percent of global GDP, accordingto Asia 2050- Realizing the Asian Century – a report by Asian DevelopmentBank (ADB).Growth of India after 1980s was one of the catalysts that spurred the reemergenceof Asia and the country falls into the fast growing, converging economiescategory of Asia.In recent times, Indian firms have led the rest of the world in developingthe cheapest cars (Tata's Nano is priced at US$ 2,500), cheapest mobile phones(at US$ 20), cheapest phone call rates, cheapest cataract surgery (at US$ 30),and the cheapest laptop (at US$ 35).Monthly Economic ReportThe overall growth of GDP at factor cost at constant prices, as per Revised Estimates, was 8.5 percent in 2010-11 representing an increase from the revised growth of 8.0 per cent during 2009-10.Overall growth in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) was 3.3 per cent during July 2011. Eightcore Infrastructure industries grew by 7.8 per cent in July 2011 as compared to the growth of 5.7 per cent inJuly 2010. During April-July 2011-12 Broad money (M3) (up to August 26, 2011) increased by 5.2 per cent ascompared to 4.5 per cent during the corresponding period of the last year.Exports, in US dollar terms increased by 81.8 per cent and imports increased by 51.5 per cent, duringJuly 2011. Foreign Currency Assets stood at US$ 286.3 billion at end August 2011 as compared to US$256.5 billion at end August 2010.Source: www.ibef.orgPrevious Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

INDIAN TRADE QUERIESS.NoProducts – Importers/Dealers in Sri Lanka1. Cotton Yarn and PolyesterYarn2. Interior Designers andArt GalleriesCompany NameMr. Rakesh DhameliyaM/s. Neo Tex GroupIndia.Mr. Rajnish Nimbark532, Devi Nagar, Road No.3,N.S. Road, Sodala,Jaipur,India.Tel/Fax/E-mailE-mail: rakesh@neotexindia.comTel: +91-141-2297721Mobile: +91-9314509233/ 9829266556E-mail: nimbark.r@gmail.com3. Steel, Metal Furniture,Cabinets, Steel Drums,Machines and EquipmentsMr. Ramchandra NarM/s. Uniphos Agro IndustriesLimitedReadymoney Terrace,167, Dr. A.B. Road,Worli – 400 018,Mumbai.Tel: +91-22-61233527Mobile: +91-9819865301Fax: +91-22-66606689E-mail: narrg@uniphos.comWebsite:www.uniphosagroindustries.com4. Rubber Wood Mr. KrishnaswamyIndia.5. Cotton Ms. J. InbavalliM/s. Abi ProductsIndia.E-mail: krishexim@yahoo.inE-mail : jknavinprasath@gmail.com6. Agro Products, Spicesand HerbalMr. Amit GuptaM/s. Ample Agro Overseas,Jaipur,Rajastan,India.Mobile: +91-9887601000E-mail:ampleagrooverseas@gmail.com7. Polyester Films andBopp FilmsMr. Jagadesh KumarM/s. Kankriya Enterprises Pvt.LtdChennai,India.Tel: +91-44-25532100-3/ 32555700Mobile: +91-9841155778Fax: +91-44-25532336E-mail: jagadesh@kankriya.comWebsite: www.kankriya.com8. Importers Directory Mr. Anish SawhneyM/s. Geetaansh Enterprises718, Vishal Tower,District Centre,Janakpuri,New Delhi – 58,India.Mobile: +91-9871900640E-mail: geetaansh@yahoo.comPrevious Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

INDIAN TRADE QUERIES ….continues9. Jute Products andHandicraftsMr. Viral DoshiM/s. Tripada ExportsKolkata,India.Mobile: +91-9830069555E-mail: viral@tripadaexports.comWebsite: www.tripadaexports.com10. Packing Materials M/s. Saurabh PlastVac15, Small Scale Industrial Estate,Nr. Gujarat Bottling,Rakhial – 380 023,Ahmedabad,Gujarat,India.Tel: +91-79-22911316Mobile: +91-9825013574/9429902147E-mail: sales@plastvac.comWebsite: www.plastvac.com11. Frozen Marine Product Mr. Vishnu G. DevSector No. 9/C-54/203,Shantinagar,Mira Road (East),Thane – 401107,India.12. Nuxvomica Seeds Mr. S. SaravananM/s. Magee Exports2/4/1, Rajakkapatty,Collectorate Post,Dindigul – 624 004,Tamil Nadu,India.Tel: +91-9930205255E-mail: sonachigrup@gmail.comexpimpsundicate@gmail.comTel: +91-4512460261Mobile: +91-9487178025E-mail:mageeexports.india@gmail.com13. Medical, Pharma, Surgical,Health CareProducts, Coconut andReadymade Dresses14. Consumable FoodItemsMr. M. SankarM/s. Murugan InternationalKurumbalaperi Tenkasi,Tamil Nadu,India.Mr. N.E. Vijey ShekarM/s. Prashanthi Exports & Imports81, 2nd Main Road,Azhagiri Nagar,Alamelumangapuram,Vellore – 632 009,Tamil Nadu,India.Mobile: +91-9600894131E-mail: msankar32@gmail.comTel: +91-416-2253024Mobile: +91-9442192024E-mail:vshaker.shaker8@gmail.com15. Tractors Mr. Saurabh NirantarM/s. Force Motors LimitedMumbai – Pune Road,Akurdi,Pune – 411 035,India.Tel: +91-20-27404203/ 27476381E-mail: saurabhn@forcemotors.comWebsite:www.forcemotors.com16. Export-Import Data andTrade Promotion BodiesMs. Sangini SharmaM/s. Labh Group of Companies4th Floor, Sarthik Square,S.G. Road,Ahmedabad – 380 054,India.Tel: +91-79-30070400/ 30070500/66611888/999Fax: +91-79-66622999E-mail: sales121@labhgroup.comWebsite: www.labhgroup.comPrevious Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

INDIAN TRADE QUERIES ….continues17. Herbal and AyurvedicProducts18. Cosmetic, PersonalCare and Baby CareProductsMr. R. K. DixitForest Officer31, Madhuban Colony,Chhindawada M.P – 480 001,India.Mr. Pavan KundanM/s. Asian Trade LinkA/19, Sidhpura Industrial Estate,L.B.S. Marg,Ghatkopar (W),Mumbai – 400 086,India.Tel: +91-22-25000659/ 25007236Fax: +91-22-25000851E-mail: sales@asiantradelinkindia.com19. Agro Products, Spicesand Herbal20. Handicrafts, Gifts andAccessoriesM/s. Zifor EnterprisesBandri Ka Nasik,Char Darwaza,Jaipur – 302 001,Rajastan,India.Mr. Mohd. Azim KhanM/s. Azra InternationalPlot No. 50A, Lane No 4,Behind Geejgarh Vihar, 22Godown,Jaipur – 302 006,Rajastan,India.Mobile: +91-9694704074E-mail: ziforenterprises@gmail.comWebsite:www.indianagroherbalproducts.inMobile: +91-988770022/ 9694591640E-mail:azrainternationaljpr@gmail.com21. Engineering Products M/s. Aarti Exports“Maa”,6, Station Plot,Gondal – 360 311,Gujarat,India.Tel : +91-2825-224511Mobile: +91-9429569311Fax: +91-2825-224511E-mail : aartiexport@gmail.com22. Herbs and HerbalRoots23. Agricultural and HerbalProductsMr. Mahesh BalanM/s. Evergreen Enterprises16A1, Mariamman Kovil Street,Saravanampatti,Coimbatore – 641035,Tamil Nadu,India.M/s. Dhanya Agro-Herbs286-287, Narayan Mansion,Vasundhara Colony, Tonk Road,Jaipur,Rajastan,India.Mobile: +91-9442263997E-mail : evergroups@gmail.comWebsite:www.evergreenenterprises.co.inMobile: +91-9587436195/ 9828817798E-mail : dhanya.mea_ah@ymail.com24. Textiles and Garments Mr. Harshal DoshiIndia.E-mail: harshalkdoshi@gmail.comPrevious Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

INDIAN TRADE QUERIES ….continues25. Leather Products Mr. KarthikM/s. Sale Abroad Trading CompanyChennai,India.26. Cotton Sarees Mr. Agilam JeyabalenIndia.Tel : +91-44-43515783Mobile: +91-9962738765/ 8939787859Fax: +91-44-25500800E-mail : saleabroad.tc@gmail.comE-mail:agilamjeyabalen@gmail.com27. Agro Products, Spicesand Herbal28. Bicycle, Two Wheeler,Car Tyres, Tubes andparts29. Precious & Semi PreciousStones and DiamondJewellery30. Castor Oil, Ground Nutand Fresh VegetablesM/s. S Kumar & Company52, Teeba Shyopur Toll Tax,Sanganer Jaipur,Jaipur – 302 033,Rajastan,India.Mr. M K AroraInternational Trade DivisionM/s. Amco Industrial EnterprisesPvt.LtdE-161, Phase IV, Focal Point,Ludhiana – 141010,India.Mr. Bharat AgarwalM/s. Bharat Exports“Vibhuti Sadan”,4888, Math Ka Kuwa,K.G.B. Ka Rasta, Johari Bazar,Jaipur -302023,Rajasthan,India.Mr. Vijay DesaiM/s. Abhigam Renewable Resources1004, Anand Mangal – III,Ambawadi,Ahmedabad – 380 006,India.Mobile: +91-9460020458E-mail: skumar4303@gmail.comTel: +91-161-4321000/ 4321001-32E-mail: export@amcogroups.comMobile: +91-9829100605/ 9829155040E-mail: info@bharatexports.comWebsite: www.bharatexports.comTel: +91-79-40024848Mobile: +91-9662018481E-mail:abhigam.consultants1004@gmail.com31. Corn Starch Products Mr. Nishant ShuklaM/s. Santosh Maize & IndustriesLtd201- Karma Complex,Nr. Mahalaxmi Cross Roads,Paldi, Ahmedabad – 380 007,India.Tel: +91-79-26651800Fax: +91-79-26652090E-mail: n.shukla@santoshmaize.comWebsite: www.santoshmaize.com32. Fresh Vegetables andSpicesMr. Santosh KumarM/s. Rudra Export3/40-F, Nehru Nagar,Opp. Govt. Arts College,Dharmapuri – 636 705,Tamil Nadu,India.Mobile: +91-9566082220E-mail: rudraexport@sify.comPrevious Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

SRI LANKA TRADE QUERIESI. Wants to Import/PurchaseS. Products Company Name & Address Tel/Fax/E-mailNo1. Chemicals Mr. Janaka FernandoM/s. SBC Group of Companies260, Sri Ramanathan Mawatha,Colombo -15.Tel : +94-11-2448367/ 5759113-4Mobile: +94-717722954Fax: +94-11-4613103E-mail: janaka@sbcplc.comWebsite: www.sbcplc.com2. Industrial Fabric Mr. Sene WeerasingheManaging DirectorM/s. Don Peiris WeerasingheLtd,No. 7, Sri WijayawardenaramaRoad,Nugegoda.3. Indian Companies Mr. Upul DissanayakeM/s. Access International Projects(Pvt) LtdAccess Towers,278, Union Place,Colombo – 02.Tel : +94-11-2852888Mobile: +94-777784066Fax: +94-11-2813351E-mail: dpw_ltd@yahoo.comTel: +94-11-2302302Mobile: +94-777802404Fax: +94-11-2302366E-mail : upul@access.lkWebsite: www.access.lk4. Roofing Sheets,Nickel Plated Ferrulesand NailsMs. ThilanganiSri Lanka.Mobile: +94-777322333E-mail: thilly@eureka.lk5. Asbestos Sheet MachineMs. ThilanganiM/s. Weerasinghe Industries(Pvt) LtdSri Lanka.Mobile: +94-777322333E-mail: willsbrush@sltnet.lk6. Contact Details of“Rapid Diagnostics(Pvt) Ltd, India”Mr. S. P. PereraM/s. ESPEE Marketing28/1, Shrubbery Gardens,Colombo – 04.Tel: +94-11-2599559/ 2594154Fax: +94-11-2501969E-mail: espee@sltnet.lk7. Wind Mills Mr. Susantha WelgamaSri Lanka.8. Indian Companies Rochelle JeganathanM/s. IIFL CeylonColombo.Fax: +94-11-2325244E-mail:rochelle.jeganathan@iiflcap.comPrevious Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

INDIAN TRADE FAIRS AND BUSINESS EVENTSS. No1.Events20 th Biennial New Delhi World BookFair, from 25 th Feb to 04 th March, 2012at sprawling Pragati Maidan (Hall 1-14),New Delhi.Organiser (s)Further details can be had from NationalBook Trust, India, Nehru Bhawan, 5, InstitutionalArea, Phase – II, Vasant Kunj,New Delhi – 110070.Tel: 0091-11-26707700, 26707702,24526187E-mail: nbtindia@ndb.vsnl.net.innbtindia@nbtindia.org.inWebsite: www.nbtindia.org.in2.3.4.07 th Nakshatra 2012, from 25 th Feb to04 th March, 2012 at (Mezzanine Floor)Pragati Maidan (Hall No. 18), NewDelhi.9 th IREE 2011 International RailwayEquipment Exhibition from 28-30 th September2011 at Pragati Maidan, NewDelhi, India.The Partnership Summit 2012 “NewAge Innovation Partnership” from 11-13 th January,2012 at Hyderabad InternationalConvention Centre (HICC),Hyderabad.Further details can be had from IndianTrade Promotion Organisation, PragatiBhawan, Pragati Maindan, New Delhi-110001, India.Tel: 0091-11-23371351, 23371614,23379038Fax: 0091-11-23371913, 23371845E-mail: vkumar@itpo-online.comprs@itpo-online.comWebsite: www.nakshatrafair2012.comFurther details can be obtained from Ministryof Railways Government of India.E-mail: rajesh.wadhwa@cii.inWeb site: www.ireeindia.comFurther details can be obtained fromMr. Cahandrajit Banerjee (Director General),Confederation of India Indstry, TheMantosh Sondhi Centre, 23, InstitutionalArea, Lodi Road, New Delhi 110003.Tel: 0091-11-24621874, 24629994-7Fax: 0091-11-24633168E-mail: cbanerjee@cii.inPrevious Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

SRILANKAN TRADE FAIRS AND BUSINESS EVENTSS. No Events Organiser (s)1.Int‟l Construction Expo, Symposium inSri Lanka to be held on 29 th , 30th Juneand 1 st July 2012 at the Sirimavo BandaranaikeMemorial Exhibition Centre.Further details can be had from Mr. ChintanaSiriwardenaCeylon Institute of Builders, 48, ThalawathugodaRd, Pitakotte, Sri Lanka.Tel : 0094-11-3140355Fax : 0094-11-2885933E-mail : info@ciob.lkWeb site: www.saeexhibition.comPrevious Page Back to Cover Page Next Page

USEFUL BIZ LINKS National Portal www.india.gov.in Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) http://www.ciionline.org Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) www.ficci.com Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) http://www.assocham.org National Association of Software & Service Companies http://www.nasscom.in Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion http://dipp.nic.in India Brand Equity Foundation http://www.ibef.org Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs http://moia.gov.in Overseas Indian Facilitation Centre (OIFC) http://www.oifc.in Indian Investment Centre (IIC) http://iic.nic.in Reserve Bank of India (RBI) http://www.rbi.org.in Ministry of Commerce & Industry (Deptt of Commerce) http://commerce.gov.in/ Ministry of Law, Justice & Company Affairs, Department of Company Affairs (to register and check status of acompany) http://www.mca.gov.in/ Ministry of Finance www.finmin.nic.in Central Board of Excise & Customs (Customs tariffs) www.cbec.gov.in Income Tax Department http://www.incometaxindia.gov.in Directorate General of Foreign Trade (Trade Complaints) http://dgft.delhi.nic.in India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) http://www.indiatradepromotion.org Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) http://www.fieo.com National Centre for Trade Information (NCTI) http://www.nic.in/ncti Indian Council of Arbitration http://www.ficci.com/icanet Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC) http://www.ecgcindia.com Export Import Bank http://www.eximbankindia.com Export Inspection Council http://www.eicindia.org The State Trading Corporation of India Ltd. http://www.stcindia.com Minerals and Materials Corporation Limited www.mmtclimited.com India Credit Rating Agency Ltd (ICRA) www.icra.in Credit Rating & Information Services India Limited (CRISIL) http://www.crisil.com/ Engineering Export Promotion Council http://www.eepcindia.org Overseas Construction Council of India http://projectexports.nic.in Agricultural and Processed Food Products Exports Developments Authority (APEDA) http://www.apeda.com/ Basic Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics Export Promotion Council (CHEMEXCIL) http://www.chemexcil.gov.in Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council (Pharmexcil) www.pharmexcil.com Pesticides Manufacturers & Formulators Association of India www.pmfai.org CAPEXIL http://www.capexil.com Plastics & Linoleums Export Promotion Council http://www.plexcon.org Council for Leather Exports http://www.leatherindia.org Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council http://www.gjepc.org Cashew Export Promotion Council http://www.cashewindia.org Electronics & Computer Software Export Promotion Council www.escindia.com Apparel Export Promotion Council http://www.aepcindia.com Carpet Export Promotion Council http://www.indiancarpets.com Cotton Textile Export Promotion Council http://www.texprocil.org Export Promotion Council for Handcrafts http://www.epch.com Handloom Export Promotion Council http://www.hepcindia.com/ The Indian Silk Export Promotion Council http://www.silkepc.com Synthetic & Rayon Textile Export Promotion Council www.synthetictextiles.org Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) http://www.mpeda.com/ Rubber Board http://www.rubberboard.com Tea Board http://tea.nic.in Spices Board http://www.spicesboard.org/ or www.indianspices.com Coir Board http://coirboard.nic.in/ Indian Institute of Packaging http://iip-in.com Indian Diamond Institute http://www.diamondinstitute.net GSI India (formerly EAN-India) http://www.gs1india.orgPrevious PageBack to Cover Page