8 POWER PROJECTS ALLOWED TO IMPORT CG DUTY-FREE

Article Abstract:

The government of India has allowed eight power projects to go in for duty free imports of capital goods. The eight projects include those of the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), National Hydro Power Corporation and a private sector project. The exchequer will lose around Rs6,600 crore over a three year period due to government of India's decision. The NTPC is implementing the 1500 mw Khalagaon Stage II, the 2000 mw North Karampura, 2000 mw Bara, and 1500 mw Cheyyur project. The NHPC's projects include the 710 mw Koal Karo in Bihar, 750 mw Parvati Stage I in Himachal Pradesh and the 800 mw Parvati Stage II. The project in private sector to get this concession is the coal- based 3960 mw Irma power station in Orissa. (ag)

Electric Utilities, Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution

DOMECTIC BROADCAST Cos CAN UPLINK FROM INDIA

Article Abstract:

The Indian government will henceforth permit Indian companies to have uplinking facilities. The company where the Indian holding is 80 percent and foreign holding at 20 percent is described as an Indian company. Management control should however rest with the locals. This move is expected to pave the way for private players to broadcast from Indian soil. The government proposes to do this in three phases. In the first phase, only those players currently holding 80 percent in the equity of a company can uplink from the country. Phase two will permit those players who fit the prescribed equity structure to uplink from India. In the third phase, uplinking would be mandatory and not optional.(uh)

Comment:

India: Govt will henceforth permit Indian companies to have uplinking facilities.

DOMESTIC BROADCASTING COS MAY BE ALLOWED 20% FOREIGN STAKE

Article Abstract:

The information and broadcasting (I&B) ministry has permitted domestic broadcasting companies to offer maximum 20 percent stake to foreign holders. These companies must be incorporated in India. They can utilise the Doordarshan microwave link or Videsh Sanchar Nigam Ltd facilities for uplinking. The activities of these companies will be monitored by the I&B ministry through a special cell or committee. The I&B Ministry will formulate guidelines on programming and advertising. (gsh)

Comment:

India: Information & Broadcasting Min permits domestic broadcasting companies to offer maximum 20% stake to foreign holders