Indian Holocaust My Father`s Life and Time -FIVE HUNDRED EIGHTY FIVE
Palash Biswas
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The DEAL is final to Bail Out Ruling Hegemony UPA as well as NDA Out Of 2G Spectrum Scam as PM ready to appear before JPC in 2G scam!He said that the UPA government has been working on a host of reform initiatives, some of which have already been successful! Obviously, the Ruling zionsit Hegemony engaged in Shadow Boxing and Parliamentary Soap Opera, is Rock olid UNITTED to acomplish the Agenda of Mass Destruction!
"I am not afraid to appear before it. I am not afraid of appearing before any committee... I am not afraid of appearing before any Parliamentary Committee including JPC," Singh told editors of the electronic media in New Delhi.
The Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today said that the UPA government has not given up on reforms. In the upcoming Union Budget we will see a clearer picture of the reform agenda, adds Singh.
The Prime Minister said that the delay in introduction of the Constitution Amendment Bill on Goods and Service Tax, has been due to the Opposition, saying, "When the Parliament is not allowed to function, when the Opposition do not wish to cooperate with the path-breaking reforms of Goods and Services Tax (GST)... This is a reform which is needed."
He said that the UPA government has been working on a host of reform initiatives, some of which have already been successful. "We are working on a Food Security Bill, the Right to Education is now a reality... The ICDS (Integrated Child Development Services) is a reality... and also the National Rural Health Mission".
Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Wednesday confirmed that his Government was not averse to a Joint Parliament Committee (JPC) probe into the 2G scam and added he was not afraid of appearing before the panel.
"I am not afraid to appear before it. I am not afraid of appearing before any committee... I am not afraid of appearing before any Parliamentary Committee including JPC," Singh told editors of the electronic media in New Delhi.
The Prime Minister also clarified that he was not blocking the constitution of a JPC because he did not want to appear before it.
"I have always said that as Prime Minister, my conduct must be like Ceasar's wife above suspicion and I am quite prepared to appear before any committee that may go into this," he said.
It may be recalled that there has been some murmurs of the Government leaning towards a JPC probe into the 2G scam to allow smooth functioning of parliament during the crucial Budget session that kicks off next week.
The winter session of Parliament was a complete washout with the opposition persisting with its demand for a JPC probe into the 2G scam and the Government not ready to relent either.
The Prime Minister today also referred to his earlier remarks made during the Congress Plenary in December in which he had offered to appear before the PAC.
"The PAC is the giant committee presided over by a very senior leader of the opposition and I have publicly declared my willingness to appear before it," Dr. Singh said.
He expressed confidence that the Budget session of parliament will be an "orderly one" and that the Government will be able to put before Parliament important legislations apart from the Budget.
"We are making honest efforts to ensure that," he said adding that talks were underway with the opposition parties.
Kishore Chandra Deo likely to head JPC, Speaker to announce terms of reference
Iftikhar Gilani
New Delhi
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*The Congress core group has decided to concede the Opposition's demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the 2G scam to enable smooth functioning of the Budget session of Parliament, scheduled to begin 21 February.
It is believed that Andhra Pradesh Congress Lok Sabha member V Kishore Chandra Deo, 64, would head the JPC.
The JPC would have 21 members.
Present at the Congress core group meeting that agreed to the JPC were party president Sonia Gandhi, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, political advisor to the Congress president Ahmed Patel and Defence Minister AK Antony.
The likelihood of the JPC was strengthened when Mukherjee met Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) veteran LK Advani at his house on 14 February to work things out.
The BJP and other Opposition parties have been asking for a JPC probe into the 2G telecom spectrum scam, which the government has so far resisted.
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The previous winter session of Parliament was wasted when the Opposition and the government clashed on this JPC, resulting in continual adjournments.
Congress party sources said the Prime Minister was hitherto reluctant to have a JPC as it could result in collateral damage to his office and his government.
But, Mukherjee managed to persuade Singh to agree.
Prospective JPC head Deo is a five-time Lok Sabha member from Andhra Pradesh, and also once a Rajya Sabha member.
He was union minister of state for steel, mines and coal during 1979-80. He has also been chairman of the committee constituted by then Speaker Somnath Chatterjee to probe the misconduct of MPs in the cash-for-query scam.
Deo is currently chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Public Undertakings.
The 2G JPC would have 14 members from the Lok Sabha, including Deo, and seven from the Rajya Sabha.
Mukherjee is slated to convene a meeting of Opposition leaders in a day or two to take them on board on the JPC, as a part of the Congress-led UPA government's strategy to have a smooth Parliament session.
The Congress may press for the JPC probe to cover mobile phone licences and spectrum allocations from 2001 to cover the period when the late Pramod Mahajan and Arun Shourie of the BJP were telecom ministers.
The probe would also cover the terms of the DMK's telecom ministers Dayanidhi Maran and A Raja.
Meanwhile, Speaker Meira Kumar has convened a meeting of all political parties on 20 February, on the eve of the three-month long Budget session, to make it a smooth affair.
Not afraid to appear before any committee: PM on JPC
Press Trust of India, Updated: February 16, 2011 17:05 IST
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New Delhi: In the clearest signal that Government is ready for a Joint Parliament Committee probe on the 2G scam, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today said that he is not afraid of appearing before the panel.
Asked during an interaction with television editors whether the government would agree to the JPC on 2G scam, he said "full efforts are being undertaken to see that some way will be found (to ensure that Parliament functions). I hope it will happen."
He also dismissed impression that he was blocking agreement on the issue between the government and the opposition as he did not want to appear before a JPC.
"My position is that I am not afraid of appearing before any committee. The PAC is a joint parliamentary committee, presided over a senior member of the opposition," he said.Rediff.comTwitterNDTV SocialLive MessengerGmail BuzzPrint
Singh had offered to appear before the PAC looking into various aspects of the 2G scam. The panel is headed by senior BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi.
"I am fully prepared to appear before any committee including a JPC. It is entirely wrong for an impression to go that I was the one blocking it because I am afraid of appearing before it. My conduct as a Prime Minister must be like Caesar's wife should be above suspicion. I am quite prepared to appear before any committee that may go into this", he said.
The remarks come a week after the all party meeting chaired by UPA's trouble shooter Pranab Mukherjee on February 8 in which broad indications emerged on the possibility of formation of a JPC to look into the 2G spectrum allocation scam.
The winter session of Parliament was a complete washout with the opposition insisting on a JPC and the government unwilling to relent.
The Prime Minister also referred to his earlier remarks made during the Congress Plenary in December last year in which he had offered to appear before the PAC if required.
"The PAC is the giant committee presided over by a very senior leader of the opposition and I have publicly declared my willingness to appear before it," Singh said.
Singh expressed confidence that the next session will be "orderly" and the government will also be able to put before Parliament important legislations apart from the budget.
"We are making honest efforts to ensure that," he said adding "talks are going on with opposition parties".
Noting that he has "not been able to understand" reasons for which Parliament was not allowed to function in the winter session, he said that it should be allowed to transact its business despite differences between the government and the opposition.
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Story first published:
February 16, 2011 11:48 IST
Tags: pm on 2g scam, pm on jpc, pm on parliament, pm's press meet
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Read more at: http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/not-afraid-to-appear-before-any-committee-pm-on-jpc-85780?cp2G scam: Oppn rejects PM's statement as cover up
Updated on Wednesday, February 16, 2011, 14:09
Tags: 2G scam, BJP, CPI-M, PM, interaction, TV editors Share
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Zeenews Bureau
New Delhi: Shortly after Prime Minister Manmohan Singh assured the nation that those guilty in major scams will not be spared, during a live interaction with media persons , the opposition parties on Wednesday termed the whole exercise as an 'attempt to cover up'.
Addressing a press conference in the national capital, BJP president Nitin Gadkari said, "Prime Minister's much publicized interaction with senior journalists is nothing but an attempt to cover up on major scams that have been unearthed in the recent past."
"I appreciate the Prime Minister's partial admission of guilt and his failure to do anything. It was an honest expression and I respect him for that. But in my view, It was disappointing... the Prime Minister admitted that he does not have strength to fight corruption," Gadkari said.
He said the Prime Minister pinned blame on the media and opposition parties for the scams facing the government. "There is a CAG (Comptroller and Auditor General) report, a decision of income tax tribunal... the media has exposed scandals," he said.
Launching a scathing attack on the Congress government at the Centre, Gadkari said, "The Prime Minister is wrong in blaming the Opposition for stalling the Winter Session over its demand for a JPC probe into the 2G scam. After rejecting the demand for a JPC probe into the matter why is the UPA government agreeing to it now? The UPA government is actually responsible for the total washout of the Winter Session."
However, the BJP chief reaffirmed that there will be no change in the party's stand over the 2G scam and all major issues, and it will continue to fight against the corrupt and scam-tainted government at the Centre.
Taking a dig at Dr Singh for admitting that one has to make some compromises under coalition government, Gadkari said that Dr Singh had expressed his inability to check corruption in the name of coalition politics.
"The corruption department was outsourced... his remarks that the finance ministry had supported decisions taken regarding 2G spectrum showed that everybody was involved," he said.
"Our tallest leader AB Vajpayee also successfully managed the NDA coalition government, but never allowed major scams like 2G to happen during his tenure," he added.
In a separate press conference, CPI-M politburo member Sitaram Yechuri said, "By partially accepting the failure to take some concrete steps to check the alleged wrong doings in major scams, the Prime Minister has today accepted that his government has indeed committed mistakes."
Yechuri also told the reporters that the Congress disposition must take the blame for the total washout of the Winter Session since it repeatedly rejected the Opposition's demand a for a JPC probe into the matter.
"The PM has been making confusing statements. On one hand he says that he is ready to appear before any committee in connection with the major scams like 2G, but on the other his party has been opposing the demands for a JPC probe. Now why at this juncture the government is giving signals that it is ready to accept the Opposition's long pressed demand," he said.
http://www.zeenews.com/news687648.html
Never felt like resigning, I have a job to do: Manmohan
PTI
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PTITV grab shows Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during an interaction with the editors of TV channels at his residence in New Delhi on Wednesday.
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Admitting that "some compromises" have to be made in managing a coalition, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday declared that his government will bring the wrongdoers in scams to book but ruled out quitting from his post.
He asserted that his government was not lame duck nor was he a lame duck Prime Minister and it was a functioning government that would go after scamsters.
On the 2G scam involving former Telecom Minister A. Raja, the Prime Minister said concerns were expressed but he did not press for auction after Ministries of Telecom and Finance agreed to go by the prevailing practice of not auctioning the spectrum which was also supported by expert bodies like TRAI and Telecom Commission.
About re-induction of Mr. Raja despite complaints, he said in a coalition, it was not in his hands about whom to be inducted from a coalition partner. "You cannot suggest your preferences and you have to go by the choice of the leader of the party.
"Raja and Dayanidhi Maran were the choice of the DMK and I had no reason to feel that anything seriously wrong has been done. I did not feel that I had the authority to object to Raja's entry although complaints were coming from some companies who were not benefitted and some who had not benefitted adequately. I was not in a position to make up my mind about Raja," he said.
The Prime Minister said "in a coalition, there is a coalition dharma. Obviously, things are not entirely what I would like them to be. I never felt like resigning as I have a job to do.
"The country voted our party to be the leader of the UPA coalition and we have lot of unfinished tasks to be accomplished. I have never felt of giving up halfway. I will stay the course. I never thought of resigning," he told television editors at an interaction here.
During the 70-minute interaction, the Prime Minister fielded a wide range of questions covering mainly issues of corruption including the ISRO's deal on S-band spectrum, governance deficit, economy and the Parliament standoff.
Dr. Singh also made it clear that he was not afraid of facing any Parliamentary committee including a JPC on 2G scam.
He said all efforts were being made and talks were on with opposition to ensure smooth budget session of Parliament.
'Not that big a culprit as being made out to be'
"I don't say I have never made any mistake. But I am not that big a culprit as being made out to be," he said in reply to a question whether he would accept personal responsibility as head of the government for whatever has happened in the government.
"I am conscious about personal responsibility. I feel about it. My compulsion is that I have to bear a lot because we cannot have elections every six months. Some compromises have to be made in managing a coalition. A coalition government has to be viewed in a context that no single party has emerged to rule by itself," he said.
In his opening remarks, the Prime Minister referred to the media expose of various scams including the Commonwealth Games, the ISRO deal, Adarsh Housing affairs but asked the media not to give an image that India was a scam-driven country and nothing good was happening.
He said that such an image would weaken the self-confidence of the people and it would not be in the interest of the country.
"I wish to assure the country as a whole that our government is dead serious about bringing to book all wrongdoers regardless of the position they occupy," he said.
Biggest regret
To a question what was his biggest regret in UPA-II, Dr. Singh said that "these irregularities have happened. They should not have happened. I am not very happy about these developments".
He virtually disagreed with the CAG calculations on the loss figure in the 2G scam saying the CAG itself had called it presumptive.
There are various methods of computing the figures, he said and went on to question whether the Rs. 80,000 crore being spent on foodgrain subsidy, Rs. 60,000 crore on fertilisers and subsidy on kerosene could be called as loss.
He was replying to a question whether he agreed with Telecom minister Kapil Sibal's description of zero loss in the 2G scam.
On governance deficit
To a question on Home Minister P. Chidambaram's comments on governance deficit, he admitted, "obviously, some events have brought out the weaknesses in governance and processes, I think we need to improve the quality of governance. But that does not divide me and other members of the government."
He rejected a questioner's suggestion that his government was facing double-incumbency of attacks from the opposition and within the party.
"I do not get that impression (party not backing him). In a democracy, there are views and discussions and when decisions are taken, our party stands united in support of the government.
"I would like a cohesive party to support the government but I am not saying it is not happening," he said.
To a specific question whether he would be ready to be projected as Prime Ministerial candidate in the next elections, Dr. Singh said "it is too early. We still have a long way to go. I have to complete this term. It is too premature to speculate who would be the Prime Ministerial candidate."
He was asked whether he was feeling bad as certain embarrassing things were happening which were not in tune with his nature.
"I have looked upon life as a learning and re-learning process. It has been a great educational experience from civil service to academic world to political world. This process of learning, I relish that", he replied.
On Cabinet reshuffle
When told that he was an honest Prime Minister surrounded by dishonest administration and a sense of drift was prevailing, he said after the Budget Session, there will be a restructuring and reshuffling of his Cabinet.
"I will get back to the exercise once the Budget Session is over", he said.
Asked whether the government would agree to the JPC on 2G scam, he said "full efforts are being undertaken to see that some way will be found (to ensure that Parliament functions). I hope it will happen."
When a questioner asked whether he was ready for a JPC and whether it was not being formed because he was reluctant appear before it, he said "my position is that I am not afraid of appearing before any committee. The PAC is a joint parliamentary committee, presided over a senior member of the opposition.
"I am fully prepared to appear before any committee including a JPC. It is entirely wrong for an impression to go that I was the one blocking it because I am afraid of appearing before it. My conduct as a Prime Minister must be like Caesar's wife should be above suspicion. I am ready to appear before any committee", he said.
To a question about any rift within the UPA and whether it would continue together, he said as far as the coalition was concerned, "ours is a strong coalition and our allies are strongly committed to strengthening the alliance. There is no danger that inner tensions might break up this coalition".
On Antrix-Devas deal
On the controversial deal between Antrix, the commercial arm of ISRO and a private firm Devas for allocation of S-band spectrum, Dr. Singh said the deal has not been operationalised and the Cabinet Committee on Security would soon take a decision on terminating it, a decision on which was taken on July two last year.
He also rebutted reports that the PMO was involved in back channel discussions as late as November last year with Devas even as a decision was taken to terminate it.
"I have not talked to anybody... The PMO has not talked to anybody. The German Foreign Minister who had a meeting with me did not raise this issue."
He said different departments including the Law Ministry have recommended termination of the contract but there were only procedural delays in implementing it.
Asked whether the rash of scams has affected India's image globally, Dr. Singh said "it is a sort of atmosphere that saps our confidence. Our image is affected. I urge each one of you (media) that while opinions are speculative, facts are sacred. The facts should not be distorted."
"We owe it to our country that at least in dealing with facts, we should be as objective as possible. One can freely express their opinions. But in our reporting on country's affairs, we should deal with facts as objectively as possible," he said.
On corruption, he said a Group of Ministers has been set up under the leadership of Pranab Mukerjee to recommend ways to deal with the menace. It has been given 60 days time to give its report.
On blackmoney stashed abroad, he said "we will take all steps to bring all blackmoney that is legally ours".
He said efforts are on to sign treaties with other countries to get information about blackmoney abroad.
Asked whether "balm" would be applied in the budget to the common man reeling under inflation, he said it would not be proper to discuss the budget.
To a question on delay in the probe into the Commonwealth games which he had promised to complete within 90 days, the Prime Minister said "we are trying out best. But we will have to do the due process of law".
"It is very frustrating that it takes time. But this time the culprits will not escape," he said.
Keywords: Manmohan press conference
SLIDESHOW
Day in Pictures, February 15, 2011
Telangana Rashtra Samiti leaders protest in Secundrabad for a separate state, BJP leaders launch campaign in Kolkata for the West Bengal Assembly polls, people celebrate the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad in the West Bank city of Jenin. A selection of images from India and around the world
more slideshows »
Left slams Manmohan remarksNever felt like resigning, I have a job to do: ManmohanNot aware of methods used in spectrum allocation: ManmohanCCS will decide on Antrix-Devas deal: PMDevas threatens legal action if deal is annulledZero loss claim wrong, CBI chief tells PACPakistan thanks India for releasing Rahat Ali KhanNote for Cabinet Committee indicts Antrix-Devas dealAnil Ambani questioned by CBI in 2G scamJapan to take part in India-U.S. naval exercises againhttp://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article1460878.ece
PM to break his silence on 2G, meet top editors
IBNLive.com - Feb 14, 2011
The Government is also likely to move a resolution in Parliament for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to investigate the 2G scam. The Union Cabinet may discuss the issue on Tuesday when it meets to consider President Pratibha Patil's address to ...
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IBNLive.com - 9 hours ago
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Times of India - 9 hours ago
He admitted there were aberrations in the 2G scam. He maintained that as Prime Minister his conduct must be like Caesar's wife – above suspicion, and he was ready to appear before any committee, JPC or any other. "I will be quite happy to appear before ...
PM tries to correct his image
Hindustan Times (blog) - 3 hours ago
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People's Daily Online - 3 hours ago
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IBNLive.com - Feb 15, 2011
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2G scam: JPC will lead to duplication in probe, Govt tells MPs
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7 Feb 2011 ... Ahead of a key meeting to resolve the deadlock over a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe, the government today questioned the logic ...
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The Hindu Business Line : No JPC on 2G scam, Pranab reiterates
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21 Nov 2010 ... No JPC on 2G scam, Pranab reiterates. Our Bureau. Kolkata, Nov. 20. The Union Finance Minister, Mr Pranab Mukherjee, on Saturday stuck to ...
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Cabinet decision on JPC probe into 2G scam likely today
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15 Feb 2011 ... In a bid to prevent the Budget Session from being washed out like the Winter Session, the government is most likely to announce the setting ...
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No compromise on JPC over 2G scam: Yechury - India News - IBNLive
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7 Feb 2011 ... Karan Thapar in conversation with CPM leader Sitaram Yechury on Left's JPCdemand.
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Govt to announce JPC probe into 2G scam: reports
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15 Feb 2011 ... A 21-member JPC on the 2G spectrum allocation and some other aspects of the telecom policy is likely to be announced two days ahead of ...
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2G scam: Govt sticks to no-JPC probe stand - The Economic Times
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28 Nov 2010 ... Despite the prospects of logjam in Parliament over the 2G Spectrum allocationscam next week, the government remains set against a joint ...
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economictimes.indiatimes.com › News - Cached
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No JPC, but PAC probe into 2G scam on - The Times of India
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5 Dec 2010 ... The government may not have conceded a joint parliamentary ...
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timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/...JPC...2G-scam.../7044836.cms - Cached
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The Hindu : National : Only JPC can expose 2G scam: Karat
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6 Dec 2010 ... The CPI(M) leader said the CBI was too slow in its investigation into the 2G scam and had not done anything noteworthy in the last 13 months ...
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Opposition demands JPC on 2G scam
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15 Nov 2010 ... Opposition demands JPC on 2G scam. News 24 bureau. New Delhi: The parliament was rocked on Monday as opposition demanded an impartial ...
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www.news24online.com/Opposition-demands-JPC-on-2G-scam_News24_17551.aspx -Cached
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2G scam: BJP demands immediate announcement on JPC from UPA ...
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9 Feb 2011 ... The opposition party said such a move would ensure smooth function of the Parliament in the budget session.
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India, Japan aim for $25 bn trade by 2014
India and Japan on Wednesday signed a comprehensive economic partnership agreement and set a target to more than double bilateral trade to $25 billion by 2014.Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma and Japanese Foreign Minister Seiji Maehara signed the agreement in Tokyo, an official statement said.
"This is the most ambitious agreement signed by India so far and covers trade in goods, services and investment under its ambit," the ministry of commerce and industry said in the statement here.
"India stands to gain significantly through this agreement and 90 percent of tariff lines are covered while Japan has covered 5 percent more lines than India," it said.
The agreement seeks to eliminate tariffs on 90 percent of Japanese exports to India, such as auto parts and electric appliances, and 97 percent of imports from India, including agricultural and fisheries products, until 2021.
In their meeting, after signing the agreement, the two ministers set a target to more than double bilateral trade to $25 billion by 2014.
India's bilateral trade with Japan was $10.36 billion in 2009-10. Trade balance is heavily in favour of Japan as India imported goods worth $6.73 billion while its export to Japan was $3.63 billion.
The two countries started negotiations on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in January 2007.
Welcoming the pact, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) said the deal would substantially boost Indian export to Japan.
"We will be able to increase our exports to Japan from $3.63 billion in 2009-10 to $25 billion by 2014-15," FIEO President Ramu S. Deora said here while reacting on the deal.
Deora said elimination of tariffs especially on textiles will boost Indian export to Japan.
Indian pharmaceutical sector will be among the major beneficiaries of the deal. For the first time Japan has committed to give the same treatment for Indian generics as their domestic industry.
Apart from this, Indian agricultural products including instant tea, seafood will find their way into the Japanese market. Textile products including readymade garments stand to gain significantly in terms of market access.
Japan has also committed to lower tariffs on petrochemicals and chemical products, jewellery and cement.
"In the services sector India has obtained considerable concessions including commitments for providing greater access for contractual suppliers, professionals such as accountants, researchers, tourist guides and management consultants who will now be able to provide their services in Japan," the commerce and industry ministry said.
Manmohan "dead serious" about tackling wrongdoers
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Speaking to the country via a televised media interaction, his first since a host of scams have come to light over the past few months, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday gave an assurance that his government was "dead serious in bringing to book all wrongdoers." But even as he repeated his commitment to punish the guilty, Dr. Singh refused to accept any personal responsibility for the policy decisions that led to the 2G spectrum and S-Band scams.
Pressed on whether he absolved himself completely, the Prime Minister blamed his coalition partners. "No one should doubt that I am conscious of my responsibilities. But I have some compulsions. One has to tolerate a great deal in coalition politics, or else go for elections every six months, which is also not the proper course to adopt."
Later, he added: "I have never said I have never made a mistake…I am not as much of a culprit as I am being made out."
The Prime Minister also used his hour-long interaction with editors of television channels to slam the Opposition and chide the media for creating the impression of a "scam-driven country," something that was "weakening the self-confidence of the people" and spoiling the "image of India."
"In reporting the affairs of our nation, we mustn't focus excessively on the negative features, important though it is that the government should deal with them," he said.
Dr. Singh was, however, very clear that he was "not afraid of appearing before any committee, including a JPC [the proposed Joint Parliamentary Committee to examine the 2G spectrum scam]." Indeed, he stressed that there was a wrong impression that he had blocked an agreement on a JPC.
He added that he had also never felt like quitting even though things were not entirely the way he would have wished them to be. "I never felt like resigning because I have a job to do. The country voted our party to be the leader of the coalition, and we have a lot of unfinished business to accomplish...I will stay the course."
Dr. Singh said that while the scams that the government had got engulfed in were his biggest regret, the fact that his government had ensured, despite a very unfavourable international economic environment, that the Indian economy's growth rhythm was not grossly affected was its biggest achievement.
Wednesday's news conference was intended to clear the air on the issue of corruption and present a strong and confident Prime Minister. But his answers on the scale of the 2G scam — in the light of Telecom Minister Kapil Sibal's controversial claim that there had been "zero loss" — suggested a continuing unwillingness to concede that there had been wrongdoing on a massive scale.
Since auctions had not taken place, Dr. Singh said that calculating the loss was difficult. He then went on to compare the (underpriced) sale of 2G spectrum with the subsidies given for food and fertilizers, asking whether these subsidies should also be described as a loss of revenue.
The Prime Minister also vigorously rejected any suggestion that his office had continued talks with Devas Multimedia — on its controversial deal with Antrix Corporation, ISRO's commercial arm, for the lease of 90 per cent transponders in two satellites to be built by ISRO, a deal into which was bundled 70 MHz of S-Band spectrum, priced at Rs.1,000 crore — after the Space Commission decided to scrap it.
"There have been no backroom talks...there has been no effort in the PMO [Prime Minister's Office] to dilute in any way the decision taken by the Space Commission in July 2010," he said. However, he did admit that there had been a delay in scrapping the deal, but said this had been "only procedural."
Dismissing a question on whether he would be the Congress' prime ministerial candidate in the next general elections as "premature," Dr. Singh, however, stressed that he would complete his term in office.
Asked to comment on the attacks on him from within the party, he said: "I would, of course, like a cohesive party to back the government," adding: "I think we are a democratic party and we have a lot of internal discussions. When decisions are taken, I think our party stands united in support of the government."
Accusing the BJP of obstructing economic reforms for petty reasons, the Prime Minister pointed out that the BJP had "taken a hostile attitude [to the Goods and Services Tax] because of a decision against a particular person, who was a minister in Gujarat." The reference was to Amit Shah, who was arrested in the Sohrabuddin case by the CBI.
Dr. Singh said he had not given up on his job while underscoring the fact that when Parliament was not able to perform its essential function of passing laws, "that is one area where our nation has to rethink how our parliamentary institutions should function."
Did BJP put pressure on Prime Minister over Amit Shah?
NDTV Correspondent, Updated: February 16, 2011 22:39 IST
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Click to Expand & Play"The Opposition parties, particularly the BJP party, has taken a very hostile attitude and the reason that has been given quite frankly, I cannot I think can mention in public. They say because you have taken some decision against a particular person, who was a minister in Gujarat, you must reverse it or you... I don't want to add further," said Dr Singh.
The Prime Minister stopped short of naming the minister but he appeared to be alluding to Amit Shah, who was arrested last July by the CBI in connection with fake encounter killing of Sohrabuddin Sheikh. The BJP flatly denied the allegation saying their opposition to GST had started much before Shah's arrest.
"Mr Amit Shah has been wrongly and falsely implicated...As far as the environment of the cooperation between the Opposition and the government is concerned, if you continue to misuse the CBI, if you continue to take action against Opposition governments...why Amit Shah?" questioned Arun Jaitley, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha.
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PrintWith the BJP not giving up on its strategy of targeting the Prime Minister, the war of words is likely to intensify, as the budget session draws closer.
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UPDATE 4-India police quiz tycoon Anil Ambani in telecom probe
* Scandal probe reaches top levels of India Inc * India may have lost up to $39 billion in 2G revenue * Prime minister says will not resign over scandals * Anil Ambani group firms in sharp selloff last week (Recasts, adds details) By Paul de Bendern and Devidutta Tripathy NEW DELHI, Feb 16 (Reuters) - Billionaire Anil Ambani, who controls India's No. 2 mobile carrier Reliance Comm (RLCM.BO), was questioned on Wednesday by federal police in a widening corruption investigation that has battered the government. The 51-year-old tycoon is the latest and highest-profile company executive to be quizzed by Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officials in the probe into whether lucrative mobile phone licences and radio spectrum were sold at below-market prices in return for kickbacks. Allegations the government may have lost up to $39 billion in revenue as a consequence have caused months of parliamentary paralysis and reached the highest levels of political and corporate India, shaking investor confidence. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, whose ruling coalition has been rocked by the scandal, spent a large part of a rare news conference on Wednesday defending his embattled government over a series of corruption scandals. [ID:nSGE71F037] The telecoms scandal has brought down a former telecoms minister, leading to his arrest by the CBI. "During the course of his weekly visit to New Delhi, Anil Ambani met CBI officials today to clarify ongoing issues, relating to telecom matters for the years 2001 to 2010, and virtually every telecom operator in the country," Mumbai-based Reliance ADA Group said in a statement. Broadcasters NDTV and CNN-IBN said Anil Ambani had been summoned by the federal police for questioning. Reliance ADA Group said he had not been "summoned" by the CBI. The CBI has ordered companies who were involved in the telecoms licence process to answer a series of questions as it probes irregularities and possible corruption. After about three hours at CBI headquarters, Anil Ambani left the building through a side gate, avoiding waiting reporters. A series of scandals that has rocked India in recent months has exposed the cosiness between the political and corporate elite in a country with a huge gap between the rich and poor. Anil Ambani meets CBI officials, clears firm's stand on 2G scamFeb 16 2011 Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani group (R-Adag) chairman Anil Ambani met officials of Central Bureau
Reliance Communications (RCom), an R-Adag company, had allegedly used Swan Telecom, promoted by DB Realty, as its front company for obtaining scarce 2G spectrum in 2008. RCom however, has repeatedly denied the charges of being an investor in Swan Telecom (now known as Etisalat DB). Confirming the day's developments, a spokesperson for R-Adag however, denied that CBI summoned Anil Ambani. "During the course of his weekly visit to New Delhi, Anil Ambani met CBI officials on Wednesday to clarify ongoing issues, relating to telecom matters for the years 2001 to 2010 and, virtually every telecom operator in the country. No summons of any kind have been issued by CBI to him," said R-Adag spokesperson. RCom's president Wireless Syed Safawi had said on Sunday that it had sold off its entire 9.9 per cent stake in Swan Telecom before the new telecom company was granted licence in January 2008 and that its senior official, Hari Nair, who is currently a company secretary with R-ADAG, had also ceased to exist as company secretary in Swan Telecom before grant of licence. DB Realty's managing director Shahid Balwa was arrested last week by the CBI for his alleged role in the 2G-spectrum scam. So far, the CBI has arrested former telecom minister A Raja, former telecom secretary Siddhartha Behura and Raja's private secretary RK Chandolia. On Monday, a CBI court extended Raja's remand by three days and also extended Balwa's remand for four days. On Tuesday, the CBI had questioned several officials of telecom companies for determining their role in 2G-spectrum scam. These included managing director of Unitech, Sanjay Chandra, S Tel's CFO Arun Mandhana and chief regulatory officer Rupinder Sikka, Loop Telecom's CEO Sandip Basu and Tata Realty's managing director Sanjay G Ubale and CFO Kishore Saletore. India needs law against invasion of privacy: Ratan Tata NEW DELHI: Amid raging controversy over phone tapping, Tata Group Chairman Ratan Tata has said there is a need for a law to keep a tab on invasion of people's privacy. |
Contents[hide] |
[edit]Parties involved
The selling of the licenses brought attention to four groups of entities - politicians who had the authority to sell licenses, bureaucrats who implemented and influenced policy decisions, corporations who were buying the licenses, and media professionals who mediated between the politicians and the corporations on behalf of one or the other interest group.
[edit]Politicians involved
- A. Raja, the Ex-Minister of Communications and Information Technology who was the minister when the controversial second round of spectrum allocations took place. Mr.Raja, an MP of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam from the Nilgiris constituency, was forced to resign following the public outcry.
- Arun Shourie, the minister for Telecom during 2003 in the previous BJP regime. It was Arun Shourie who introduced the controversial technology neutral "Unified Access(both Basic & Celluler) Services License", which allowed fixed line operators who had paid much lower license fees to offer mobile phone services, at first in the limited WLL mode (Wireless local loop) and later, following an out of court settlement between mobile operators and the BJP govt, full mobility. This gave an advantage to players like Reliance and Tata Teleservices who managed to get mobile spectrum without paying the hefty fees that earlier operators like BPL Mobile had paid.
- Pramod Mahajan, the minister for Telecom between 1999 and 2003. Mr.Mahajan was the minister when the BJP Government took the controversial decision to shift from a license fee based regime to a revenue sharing model which was roundly condemned both by political parties and by economic experts.[4] The Comptroller and Auditor General also filed adverse reports citing a loss of over
64,000 crore (US$13.89 billion) caused by this decision. The crux of A. Raja's defence is that he was following a policy of 2G allocations put in place by the BJP and it would be unfair to levy prices based on 3G spectrum to 2G licenses. Pramod Mahajan, who was seen to be friendly with various corporate houses, had been brought in to replace Jagmohan as Telecom minister just days before the decision was announced. The biggest beneficiary of this abrupt shift in policy was Reliance Infocomm who gained thousands of crores of spectrum without paying a dime in additional license fees. Pramod Mahajan and his friends and relatives are reported to have received benami shares of Reliance Industries as a "gift"[5]
[edit]Bureaucrats involved
- Siddhartha Behura, former telecom secretary who served in the DOT at the time of the 2G allocation.
- Pradip Baijal, a bureaucrat who is alleged to have implemented policies that favored certain Telecom companies when he was heading the TRAI. Post retirement, Baijal joined Noesis, a consulting firm.[6][7] Raja has made references to Baijal's decisions in 2003 as the basis for his decisions in 2008. The houses and offices of the bureaucrat were recently[when?] raided by the Central Bureau of Investigation as part of their investigations.[8]
- R K Chandolia, private secretary of Raja during UPA-I when the licences were awarded. He was an Indian Economic Service officer of the 1984 batch cadre.When Raja became the Telecom Minister once again in UPA-II, Chandolia had been promoted to the Joint Secretary rank. Raja re-designated him Economic Adviser, that gave him the charge of all important policy-related work. Chandolia interacted with all the licensees. It is said that it was Chandolia who, from DDG-access services A K Srivastava's room, had handed out letters of intent to representatives of various companies.[9]
The above mentioned all are involved with the case.
[edit]Corporations involved
- Unitech Group a real estate company entering the telecom industry with its 2G bid; sold 60% of its company stake at huge profit toTelenor after buying licensing (Including land values properties for towers)[10]
- Swan Telecom sold 45% of its company stake at huge profit to Emirates Telecommunications Corporation (Etisalat) after buying licensing[10]
- Loop Mobile
- Videocon Telecommunications Limited
- S Tel
- Reliance Communications
- Sistema Shyam Mobile (MTS) – Sistema Mobile Russia
- Tata Communications
- Vodafone Essar
- Dishnet Wireless
- Allianz Infra[11]
[edit]Media persons and lobbyists involved
- Nira Radia, a former airline entrepreneur turned corporate lobbyist whose conversations with politicians and corporate entities were recorded by the government authorities and leaked creating the Nira Radia tapes controversy
- Barkha Dutt, an NDTV journalist alleged to have lobbied for A. Raja's appointment as minister
- Vir Sanghvi, a Hindustan Times editor alleged to have edited articles to reduce blame in the Nira Radia tapes.
[edit]Petitioners
- Subramaniam Swamy, activist lawyer and politician, whose letters to the Prime Minister demanding action and affidavits and cases in the Supreme Court brought the issue into the public limelight.
- Paranjoy Guha Thakurta, a journalist who was one among the very first to write on the irregularities in the awarding of 2G spectrum allocation by the Telecom Ministry. He is also one of the petitioners in the 2G PIL currently being heard in the Supreme court.[12]
- Prashant Bhushan, on behalf of the Centre for Public Interest Litigation.
- Anil Kumar, on behalf of the civil society organisationTelecom Watchdog
- Others:Several eminent people like former chief election commissioners J.M. Lyngdoh, T.S. Krishnamurthy and N. Gopalaswami and former central vigilance commissioner (CVC) P. Shankar are also petitioners in the suits filed by civil society groups.[11]
[edit]Shortfall of money
A. Raja arranged the sale of the 2G spectrum licenses below their market value. Swan Telecom, a new company with few assets, bought a license for 1,537 crore (US$333.53 million).[13] Shortly thereafter, the board sold 45% of the company to Etisalat for 4,200 crore (US$911.4 million). Similarly, a company formerly invested in real estate and not telecom, the Unitech Group, purchased a license for 1,661 crore (US$360.44 million) and the company board soon after sold a 60% stake in their wireless division for 6,200 crore (US$1.35 billion) to Telenor.[13] The nature of the selling of the licenses was that licenses were to be sold at market value, and the fact that the licenses were quickly resold at a huge profit indicates that the selling agents issued the licenses below market value.
Nine companies purchased licenses and collectively they paid the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology's telecommunications division 10,772 crore (US$2.34 billion).[13] The amount of money expected for this licensing by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India was 176,700 crore (US$38.34 billion).[14]
[edit]Relationship between media and government
Media sources such as OPEN and Outlook reported that Barkha Dutt and Vir Sanghvi knew that corporate lobbyist Nira Radia was influencing the decisions of A. Raja.[15] The critics alleged that Dutt and Sanghvi knew about corruption between the government and the media industry, supported this corrupt activity, and suppressed news reporting the discovery of the corruption.[15]
[edit]Ratan Tata petitions over leak
The tapes leaked to the public include conversations between Nira Radia and Ratan Tata. Tata petitioned the government to acknowledge his right to privacy and demanded accountability for the leak, with the Minister for Home Affairs, CBI, Indian Income Tax Department, theDepartment of Telecommunication, and the Department of Information Technology as respondents in the petition.[16]
[edit]Response to scam
In early November 2010 Jayalalithaa accused the Tamil Nadu state chief minister M Karunanidhi of protecting A. Raja from corruption charges and called for A. Raja's resignation.[17] By mid November A. Raja resigned.[18]
In mid November the comptroller Vinod Rai issued show-cause notices to Unitech, S Tel, Loop Mobile, Datacom (Videocon), and Etisalat to respond to his assertion that all of the 85 licenses granted to these companies did not have the up-front capital required at the time of the application and were in other ways illegal.[19] Some media sources have speculated that these companies will receive large fines but not have their licenses revoked, as they are currently providing some consumer service.[19]
In response to the various allegations , the Govt of India has replaced the then incumbent Telecom minister ,A Raja with Kapil Sibal who has taken up this charge in addition to being the Union minister for Human Resources Development.Mr Sibal contends that the "notional" losses quoted are a result of erroneous calculations and insists that the actual losses are nil.[20][21]
The CBI conducted raids on Raja and four other telecom officials - former telecom secretary Siddharth Behura, Raja's personal secretary R K Chandolia, member telecom K Sridhar and DoT deputy director general A K Srivastava on 8 December 2010.[22]
Raja, Behura and Chandolia were arrested on Feb 2nd 2011.[23]
[edit]Impact on stock markets
The first casualty in Stock Markets once Raja was arrested was DB Realty.[24] DB Realty had given 200+ crores to Kalaignar TV( owned by Karunanidhi's Wife) . The news led to 20% fall in the stock prices of DB Realty. Sun TV had its shares fall by 10% on the next day following rumours of Kalanidhi Maran having stake in Kalaignar TV.[25] Sun TV COO refused the allegations. Swan Telecom Chief Balwa was arrested on Feb 8 [26] and this led to rumours of links with Anil Ambani's Reliance ADAG and it led to 20% fall of his stocks . Its reported that nearly 2 Billion USD was eroded from his stocks .[27] Spicejet stocks went down after reports of investigation on Maran's recent takeover of Spicejet .[28]
[edit]See also
[edit]References
- ^ "Case Number". Courtnic.nic.in. Retrieved 2011-02-11.
- ^ "2G Spectrum Scam: Lok Satta Party Slams Sibal For Statement - Hyderabad News on fullhyd.com". Fullhyderabad.com. 2011-01-12. Retrieved 2011-02-11.
- ^ Santosh Tiwari. "Ex-staffer complaint spurred Radia phone-tap : Investigations: India Today". Indiatoday.intoday.in. Retrieved 2011-02-11.
- ^ The ABC of the 2G Scam, http://www.tehelka.com/story_main48.asp?filename=Ne010111THEABCOF.asp
- ^ Seeking accountability http://www.frontlineonnet.com/fl2301/stories/20060127004603000.htm
- ^ http://www.taratv.com/top_story.php?task=full&newsid=2151
- ^ "Taming the retired". The Hindu Business Line. 2010-12-17. Retrieved 2011-02-11.
- ^ CBI conducts raids; swoops on DMK associates, Niira Radia & Pradip Baijalhttp://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/CBI-conducts-raids-swoops-on-DMK-associates-Niira-Radia--Pradip-Baijal/articleshow/7108883.cms
- ^ "Who is R K Chandolia?". Ndtv.com. 2011-02-02. Retrieved 2011-02-11.
- ^ a b Shafi Rahman (6 Nov 2008). "Big scam in 2G spectrum allocation: CPI-M". India Today. Retrieved 3 December 2010.
- ^ a b "Government, 11 telecom firms get court notice on 2G spectrum". Sify.com. Retrieved 2011-02-11.
- ^ "2G scam: Why I filed a PIL against the telecom minister - Rediff.com Business". Business.rediff.com. Retrieved 2011-02-11.
- ^ a b c "What is 2G spectrum scam?". NDTV.com. NDTV. 16 Nov 2010. Retrieved 3 December 2010.
- ^ "2G scam: 'Raja to blame for losing 176,000 crore (US$38.19 billion)'". The Times of India. The Times Group. 10 Nov 2010.http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/2G-scam-Raja-to-blame-for-losing-Rs-176L-cr/articleshow/6902487.cms. Retrieved 3 December 2010.
- ^ a b Amol Sharma (1 Dec 2010). "Wait a Minute, What Exactly Is Barkha Dutt Accused of?". IndiaRealTime. Wall Street Journal. Retrieved 4 December 2010.
- ^ "Government orders probe into leaking of Niira Radia tapes". The Economic Times. 29 Nov 2010. Retrieved 4 December 2010.
- ^ Sathyalaya Ramakrishnan (2 Nov 2010). "2G Spectrum Scam: Karunanidhi protecting union minister Raja for extraneous reasons- Jayalalithaa charges". Asian Tribune. Retrieved 4 December 2010.
- ^ "Telecom Minister A Raja resigns". The Indian Express. 14 Nov 2010. Retrieved 4 December 2010.
- ^ a b Joji Thomas Philip (18 Nov 2010). "2G scam: Govt to pull up five telcos". The Economic Times. The Times Group.
- ^ Sharma, Amol (2011-01-07). "India Minister Rebuts Telecom Allegations - WSJ.com". Europe.wsj.com. Retrieved 2011-02-11.
- ^ "2G war of words: Kapil Sibal vs Murli Manohar Joshi". Ndtv.com. 2011-01-08. Retrieved 2011-02-11.
- ^ "2G spectrum scam: CBI raids residences of A Raja - The Times of India". Timesofindia.indiatimes.com. 2010-12-08. Retrieved 2011-02-11.
- ^ PTI, Feb 2, 2011, 07.41pm IST (2011-02-02). "2G spectrum scam: Former telecom minister A Raja arrested - The Times of India". Timesofindia.indiatimes.com. Retrieved 2011-02-11.
- ^ "When DB Realty ended up dialling the wrong no - Money - DNA". Dnaindia.com. Retrieved 2011-02-11.
- ^ "2G scam: The DB Realty-DMK puzzle - Rediff.com Business". Rediff.com. Retrieved 2011-02-11.
- ^ 10 Feb, 2011, 03.50AM IST,ET Bureau (2010-07-23). "Arrest of Balwa may trip DB Realty's rapid rise - The Economic Times". Economictimes.indiatimes.com. Retrieved 2011-02-11.
- ^ "Day after DB Realty chief's arrest, ADAG scrips tank". Indianexpress.com. 2010-11-05. Retrieved 2011-02-11.
- ^ Chowdhury, Anirban. "SpiceJet Denies Maran Buy Under Investigation - WSJ.com". Online.wsj.com. Retrieved 2011-02-11.
[edit]External links
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The Hindu - 2G scam: CBI's difficulty in filing charge sheet against A Raja by ...
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2G spectrum scam - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The 2G spectrum scam involved officials and ministers in the Government of India illegally undercharging mobile telephony companies for frequency allocation ...
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What is 2G spectrum scam?
15 Nov 2010 ... From the time allegations of misappropriation during the bidding for allocation of 2G spectrum surfaced, till Telecom Minister A Raja's ...
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Your guide to 2G scam? - Hindustan Times
Following is a primer on the second-generation spectrum allocation scandal that resulted in former communications minister A Raja of DMK being arrested on ...
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Answers.com - What is 2G spectrum
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What is 2G spectrum ? - Yahoo! Answers India
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What is the 2G spectrum scam about? - The Economic Times
15 Nov 2010 ... A background on the 2G spectrum controversy that resulted in Communications and IT Minister A. Raja of DMK resigning on Sunday:
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2G spectrum scam - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The 2G spectrum scam involved officials and ministers in the Government of India illegally undercharging mobile telephony companies for frequency allocation ...
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2G_spectrum_scam - Cached -
What is 2G spectrum scam?
15 Nov 2010 ... From the time allegations of misappropriation during the bidding for allocation of 2G spectrum surfaced, till Telecom Minister A Raja's ...
www.ndtv.com › India - Cached -
Your guide to 2G scam? - Hindustan Times
Following is a primer on the second-generation spectrum allocation scandal that resulted in former communications minister A Raja of DMK being arrested on ...
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What is 2G spectrum ? - Yahoo! Answers India
14 Dec 2010 ... What mean 2G ... It is a term used in the telecommunication sector. It is aspectrum that supports 2G technology. High bandwidth is required for ...
in.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid... - Cached -
What is the 2G spectrum scam about? - The Economic Times
15 Nov 2010 ... A background on the 2G spectrum controversy that resulted in Communications and IT Minister A. Raja of DMK resigning on Sunday:
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10 Feb 2011 ... The Central Bureau of Investigation has arrested Shahid Balwa the MD of DB reality, who is also the Vice Chairman of Etisalat DB, ...
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TRAI recos on 2G spectrum: Experts debate on implications - CNBC ...
9 Feb 2011 ... In an interview with CNBC-TV18, Rajat Kathuria, and Rohit Prasad, Co-Authors of the 2G Spectrum Report spoke on the implications of the ...
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2G Spectrum Scam India Explained | Mobility News - CIOL News Reports
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2G spectrum scam - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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15 Nov 2010 ... From the time allegations of misappropriation during the bidding for allocation of 2G spectrum surfaced, till Telecom Minister A Raja's ...
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Your guide to 2G scam? - Hindustan Times
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What is 2G spectrum ? - Yahoo! Answers India
14 Dec 2010 ... What mean 2G ... It is a term used in the telecommunication sector. It is aspectrum that supports 2G technology. High bandwidth is required for ...
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What is the 2G spectrum scam about? - The Economic Times
15 Nov 2010 ... A background on the 2G spectrum controversy that resulted in Communications and IT Minister A. Raja of DMK resigning on Sunday:
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News Digest: 2G Spectrum Scam, Etisalat DB, TRAI, RCom, Aircel ...
10 Feb 2011 ... The Central Bureau of Investigation has arrested Shahid Balwa the MD of DB reality, who is also the Vice Chairman of Etisalat DB, ...
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TRAI recos on 2G spectrum: Experts debate on implications - CNBC ...
9 Feb 2011 ... In an interview with CNBC-TV18, Rajat Kathuria, and Rohit Prasad, Co-Authors of the 2G Spectrum Report spoke on the implications of the ...
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2G Spectrum Scam India Explained | Mobility News - CIOL News Reports
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2G scam: How Raja and Behura helped Swan jump the queue
2G scam: How Raja and Behura helped Swan jump the queue
NEW DELHI: The Shivraj Patil Committee report has found former telecom secretary Siddhartha Behura and ex-telecom minister A Raja guilty of clearing 13 letters of intent (LoIs) for 2G licences to Swan Telecom on January 9, 2008, hours before these were awarded on January. 10. This was done without verification and despite adverse observations by DoT's member finance.
"On January 9, 2008, a decision was taken by secretary DoT to issue LoI with an observation that the applicant fulfilled the requisite conditions, apparently without any further deliberation /verification. Said decision was also approved by the minister," Justice Patil says in his report.
The CAG has identified Swan Telecom in its November 2010 report as a key beneficiary of A Raja's first-come-first-served policy. The Patil committee documents DoT's special dispensation in awarding two licences to Allianz Infratech.
Later, Etisalat acquired 45% stake in Swan and the new entity, Etisalat DB, went on to acquire Allianz Infratech, which in turn brought in another two telecom circles into its fold. Swan submitted a Company Secretary's certificate to establish its prescribed net worth and paid up capital requirements as eligibility for the grant of Unified Access Service Licences for 13 service areas. The details of one of its promoters, Tiger Traders Pvt Ltd was not available on the date of application for ascertaining eligibility.
There was doubt over compliance of the substantial equity clause as it was not clear if the preferential shares had to be included for the purpose of reckoning substantial equity. "This can be noticed from the note (that) was put up by Accounts Officer (LF-II ) on 9.1.2008. On earlier occasion, a proposal was made to approach department of corporate affairs for ascertaining if applicant met the substantial equity stipulations," the report said.
Despite these omissions, the decision to award Swan its LoIs was taken in a rush without ascertaining eligibility, and could lead to an ineligible applicant being granted licence.
Patil concludes, based on the file notings of January 9, 2008 that this act of granting licences "could lead to arbitrary exercise of power resulting in favouritism". In case of Allianz Infratech., applications were put in for the grant of 22 licences on September 3, 2007. The company initially indicated that its net worth across four promoters was Rs 600 crore, but later sent a fax dated October 1, 2007 claiming a net worth in excess of Rs 2,950 crore.
The Patil report said: "Subsequently, in place of two individual promoters a company stepped in. In terms of a note dated January 9, 2008 put by DDG-LF (licence fee) it was noticed that the claim for net worth for either of the amounts was not supported by details. Further at the time of application the memorandum of association did not include telecom services in its object clause."
On December 12, 2007, Allianz Infratech informed DoT that the memorandum of association (MOA) was amended to include telecom-related activities on September 1, 2007. Yet, DoT records show the registrar of companies had taken on record this amendment on October 26, 2007.
"... It is not forthcoming that there was any proof of applicant having filed amendment to MOA with the ROC before submitting application. Despite the same, proposal for issuing of LoI was approved by member (finance), Secretary DoT and MoCIT on 9.1.2008 apparently without verification as to the eligibility of the applicant in terms of stipulated net worth" , it said.
16/02/2011 2G: CBI questions Anil Ambani on dual tech, role in Swan Tele
New Delhi: The CBI today questioned ADAG chairman Anil Ambani amid allegations that his group received favours from former Telecom Minister A Raja in getting dual technology and a role for Reliance Telecom in promoting Swan Telecom.
Ambani, 51, arrived at the CBI headquarters much ahead of the scheduled time of 5 pm and waited at the reception before he was quizzed by the agency officials, CBI sources said.
He did not speak to the media before entering the CBI headquarters for giving clarifications on the possible role of Reliance Telecom Limited (RTL), a subsidary of ADAG, in Swan.
Swan Telecom, in which Tiger Traders Private Limited have 90.13 and RTL has 9.87 equity share capital, has been under the scanner over alleged diversion of funds to DMK-owned Kalaignar television.
DB Realty group Managing Director Shahid Usman Balwa was arrested by the CBI earlier this month.
After Ambani's, sources said other top brass of telecom companies including that of Tata Tele Services and Idea would be called for clarification.
According to the CAG, four companies including Reliance Communications Ltd were provided CDMA-based mobile service under Unified Access Service licence.
Based on the recommendations of TRAI, use of dual technology was permitted on October 17, 2007 and RCom is alleged to have applied even before the announcement of the policy.
Reliance Communication Ltd. had complied with the requirements for permission to use dual technology on October 19, 2007 itself by depositing the non refundable entry fee of Rs 1645 crore for 20 service areas through Reliance Infocomm Ltd.
The CAG had said that acceptance of bank draft from Reliance Infocomm Ltd (third party) on behalf of Reliance Communications Ltd was not in order and showed the hurry through which entry fee was deposited.
In a statement here, ADAG said, "During the course of his weekly visit to New Delhi, Ambani met CBI officials today to clarify ongoing issues, relating to telecom matters for the years 2001 to 2010, and virtually every telecom operator in the country."
It said no summons of any kind have been issued by CBI to Ambani.
ADAG statement said, "Neither Reliance Telecom nor RCOM nor any Reliance ADA Group individual, company or affiliate held even a single share in Swan Telecom Ltd at the time of grant of the 2G licence to them in january, 2008, or at any time thereafter."
Source: PTI
16/02/2011 Scams have affected our image, sapped our confidence: PM
New Delhi: At a roundtable with television editors in his home on Wednesday morning, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said there were complaints "from all sides" about the way former Telecom Minister A Raja had distributed 2G spectrum but he was "not in a position" to make up his mind if anything was seriously wrong.
Singh said he had made his concerns clear to A Raja on 2G spectrum allocation but was assured by Raja -- "on the same day" -- that he was doing nothing wrong and that his methods were "absolutely transparent".
Singh also said though he had conveyed his unease to Raja about 2G, he did not press further for auction after the Ministries of Telecom and Finance agreed to go by the prevailing system of first-come first-served. This decision was also supported by expert bodies like the TRAI and the Telecom Commission, he said.
The Prime Minister's meet comes amid increasing clamour that he speak on scams that have tainted the second term of the UPA government.
The Prime Minister assured the country that his government was "dead serious" on bringing to book all wrongdoers "regardless of their positions" in the 2G spectrum, CWG, ISRO and Adarsh scams.
Singh defended himself on Wednesday against accusations his government was a lame duck, saying it was trying to bring justice in some of the country's biggest corruption scandals in decades.
"Whatever some people may say, that we are a lame duck government, that I am a lame duck Prime Minister, we take our job very seriously. We are here to govern, and to govern effectively. Tackle the problems as they arise and get this country moving forward," he said.
Still on 2G, Singh said the issue of licences were never brought before him or the Cabinet.
The Prime Minister asserted that he was "not afraid of appearing before any committee, including a JPC". "I will be quite happy to appear before any committee," he said.
"I have never felt like resigning. I will stay the course. I have a job to do. I never thought of giving up half-way," he added.
About the re-induction of Raja despite complaints, he said in a coalition, it was not in his hands about whom to be inducted from a coalition partner. "You cannot suggest your preferences and you have to go by the choice of the leader of the party. "Raja and Dayanidhi Maran were the choice of DMK and I had no reason to feel that anything seriously wrong has been done. I did not feel that I had the authority to object to Raja's entry although complaints were coming from some companies who were not benefitted and some who had not benefitted adequately. I was not in a position to make up my mind about Raja," he said.
The Prime Minister said "in a coalition, there is a coalition dharma. Obviously, things are not entirely what I would like them to be."
Singh admitted there are certain compulsions in coalition politics, "compromises have to be made", but also assured that the coalition was strong and there was "no danger of inner tension leading to a break-up". "Our allies are with us whole-heartedly," he said.
"I don't say I have never made any mistake. But I am not that big a culprit as being made out to be," he said in reply to a question whether he would accept personal responsibility as head of the government for whatever has happened in the government.
"I am conscious about personal responsibility. I feel about it. My compulsion is that I have to bear a lot because we cannot have elections every six months. Some compromises have to be made in managing a coalition. A coalition government has to be viewed in a context that no single party has emerged to rule by itself," he said.
Singh also said the UPA government was in talks with the Opposition to break the logjam in Parliament over 2G. "Parliament should be allowed to function," he said.
On the controversial deal between Antrix, the commercial arm of ISRO and a private firm Devas for allocation of S-band spectrum, Singh said the deal has not been operationalised and the Cabinet Committee on Security would soon take a decision on terminating it, a decision on which was taken on July two last year.
He also rebutted reports that the PMO was involved in back channel discussions as late as November last year with Devas even as a decision was taken to terminate it.
"I have not talked to anybody... The PMO has not talked to anybody. The German Foreign Minister who had a meeting with me did not raise this issue."
He said different departments including the Law Ministry have recommended termination of the contract but there were only procedural delays in implementing it.
To a specific question whether he would be ready to be projected as Prime Ministerial candidate in the next elections, Singh said: "It is too early. We still have a long way to go. I have to complete this term. It is too premature to speculate who would be the Prime Ministerial candidate."
He was asked whether he was feeling bad as certain embarrassing things were happening which were not in tune with his nature.
"I have looked upon life as a learning and re-learning process. It has been a great educational experience from civil service to academic world to political world. This process of learning, I relish that", he replied.
Asked whether the rash of scams has affected India's image globally, Singh said "it is a sort of atmosphere that saps our confidence. Our image is affected. I urge each one of you (media) that while opinions are speculative, facts are sacred. The facts should not be distorted."
"We owe it to our country that at least in dealing with facts, we should be as objective as possible. One can freely express their opinions. But in our reporting on country's affairs, we should deal with facts as objectively as possible," he said.
On corruption, he said a Group of Ministers has been set up under the leadership of Pranab Mukerjee to recommend ways to deal with the menace. It has been given 60 days time to give its report.
On black money stashed abroad, he said, "We will take all steps to bring all blackmoney that is legally ours."
He said efforts are on to sign treaties with other countries to get information about black money abroad.
To a question on the delay in the probe into the Commonwealth games which he had promised to complete within 90 days, the Prime Minister said "we are trying out best. But we will have to do the due process of law".
"It is very frustrating that it takes time. But this time the culprits will not escape," he said.
In his opening remarks, the Prime Minister referred to the media expose of various scams including the Commonwealth Games, ISRO deal, Adarsh housing affairs but asked the media not to give an image that India was a scam-driven country and nothing good was happening.
He said that such an image would weaken the self-confidence of the people and it would not be in the interest of the country.
To a question what was his biggest regret in UPA-II, Singh said that "these irregularities have happened. They should not have happened. I am not very happy about these developments".
To a question on Home Minister P Chidambaram's comments on governance deficit, he admitted, "Obviously, some events have brought out the weaknesses in governance and processes, I think we need to improve the quality of governance. But that does not divide me and other members of the government."
He rejected a questioner's suggestion that his government was facing double-incumbency of attacks from the opposition and within the party.
"I do not get that impression (party not backing him). In a democracy, there are views and discussions and when decisions are taken, our party stands united in support of the government.
"I would like a cohesive party to support the government but I am not saying it is not happening," he said.
Allegations the government may have lost up to $39 billion in revenues after firms were awarded telecoms deals at rock-bottom prices in return for kickbacks have rocked the ruling coalition and compounded India's fragile investment climate.
The 78-year-old Singh has been under increasing pressure to stamp out on corruption and his decision-making appears to have been paralysed in his second term despite winning re-election with an increased majority.
The scandals have taken a heavy toll on Singh, concerned his legacy is transforming from one of being the founders of India's economic boom to someone who did nothing to stop corruption or policy paralysis.
Singh may have hoped the current scandals would ebb. But an aggressive media, an assertive Supreme Court and an opposition tasting political blood have seen momentum into the corruption probes grow.
Policy making has also been in limbo since his re-election in 2009 as the government battles fires from inflation to graft scandals. Reforms like opening up retail and the financial sector to foreign investment have been put on the back burner.
The government appeared close to agreeing to a broad, cross-party investigation in the scandal, paving the way for Parliament to resume as normal for a February 21 budget session.
But there were few signs the Parliamentary session would lead to any more reform bills.
Some commentators say there could be a repeat of 1989, when Congress lost a general election due to the Bofors scandal over gun contracts involving close associates of then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi who were accused of taking bribes.
Source: Agencies
16/02/2011 Devas threatens legal action if ISRO deal annulled
New Delhi: Objecting to a government move to annul its contract with Antrix following the S-band spectrum controversy, Devas Multimedia today said it would take "strong" legal steps to protect its rights and interests.
Antariksh Bhavan in Bangalore houses the Antrix Corporation.
Contending that it had a legally binding agreement with ISRO's commercial arm Antrix, Devas said it expected the government to fulfill all its obligations under the agreement and will take strong steps, including legal, to protect its rights.
"We have grave concerns regarding the government's statement today on pre-meditated annulment of the agreement, despite pending high-power committee and CAG reviews which are still in the preliminary stages," a statement issued by the Bangalore-based company said here.
It termed as "disturbing and inappropriate" the government's "unilateral" decision to terminate the agreement "without due investigative process and without following the principles of natural justice".
"In spite of the company's willingness to co-operate and assist in required government reviews without prejudice to our legal rights, we have not yet heard from the government in this regard," the statement said.
"The Devas-DOS/ISRO/Antrix Agreement is in line with the government's 1997 SatCom Policy. The company has complied with all its obligations under this agreement and is in compliance with all laws and rules in respect of conducting its business," it said.
"The company also notes the increasing public awareness of the vested political and business interests in conjunction with certain media organisations that have been instrumental in bringing about an intentional gross misrepresentation of the facts of Devas-DOS/ISRO/Antrix satellite transponder capacity lease and tying it inappropriately to unrelated telecom spectrum issues for their own purposes," the statement said.
Source: PTI
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Given a huge offtake in hardware & software in future, we should encourage home-grown R&D and innovation. It should alaso foster linkages between industry and research organisations. Reduce stamp duty on realty deals: Industry experts
ET NowRealtors wish list includes measures to lower interest rates on home loans, reduction in stamp duty and rollback of service tax on projects under construction. Budget could extend tax benefit on infrastructure bonds by a year
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NEW DELHI: The Shivraj Patil Committee report has found former telecom secretary Siddhartha Behura and ex-telecom minister A Raja guilty of clearing 13 letters of intent (LoIs) for 2G licences to Swan Telecom on January 9, 2008, hours before these were awarded on January. 10. This was done without verification and despite adverse observations by DoT's member finance.
"On January 9, 2008, a decision was taken by secretary DoT to issue LoI with an observation that the applicant fulfilled the requisite conditions, apparently without any further deliberation /verification. Said decision was also approved by the minister," Justice Patil says in his report.
The CAG has identified Swan Telecom in its November 2010 report as a key beneficiary of A Raja's first-come-first-served policy. The Patil committee documents DoT's special dispensation in awarding two licences to Allianz Infratech.
Later, Etisalat acquired 45% stake in Swan and the new entity, Etisalat DB, went on to acquire Allianz Infratech, which in turn brought in another two telecom circles into its fold. Swan submitted a Company Secretary's certificate to establish its prescribed net worth and paid up capital requirements as eligibility for the grant of Unified Access Service Licences for 13 service areas. The details of one of its promoters, Tiger Traders Pvt Ltd was not available on the date of application for ascertaining eligibility.
There was doubt over compliance of the substantial equity clause as it was not clear if the preferential shares had to be included for the purpose of reckoning substantial equity. "This can be noticed from the note (that) was put up by Accounts Officer (LF-II ) on 9.1.2008. On earlier occasion, a proposal was made to approach department of corporate affairs for ascertaining if applicant met the substantial equity stipulations," the report said.
Despite these omissions, the decision to award Swan its LoIs was taken in a rush without ascertaining eligibility, and could lead to an ineligible applicant being granted licence.
Patil concludes, based on the file notings of January 9, 2008 that this act of granting licences "could lead to arbitrary exercise of power resulting in favouritism". In case of Allianz Infratech., applications were put in for the grant of 22 licences on September 3, 2007. The company initially indicated that its net worth across four promoters was Rs 600 crore, but later sent a fax dated October 1, 2007 claiming a net worth in excess of Rs 2,950 crore.
The Patil report said: "Subsequently, in place of two individual promoters a company stepped in. In terms of a note dated January 9, 2008 put by DDG-LF (licence fee) it was noticed that the claim for net worth for either of the amounts was not supported by details. Further at the time of application the memorandum of association did not include telecom services in its object clause."
On December 12, 2007, Allianz Infratech informed DoT that the memorandum of association (MOA) was amended to include telecom-related activities on September 1, 2007. Yet, DoT records show the registrar of companies had taken on record this amendment on October 26, 2007.
"... It is not forthcoming that there was any proof of applicant having filed amendment to MOA with the ROC before submitting application. Despite the same, proposal for issuing of LoI was approved by member (finance), Secretary DoT and MoCIT on 9.1.2008 apparently without verification as to the eligibility of the applicant in terms of stipulated net worth" , it said.
16/02/2011 2G: CBI questions Anil Ambani on dual tech, role in Swan Tele
New Delhi: The CBI today questioned ADAG chairman Anil Ambani amid allegations that his group received favours from former Telecom Minister A Raja in getting dual technology and a role for Reliance Telecom in promoting Swan Telecom.
Ambani, 51, arrived at the CBI headquarters much ahead of the scheduled time of 5 pm and waited at the reception before he was quizzed by the agency officials, CBI sources said.
He did not speak to the media before entering the CBI headquarters for giving clarifications on the possible role of Reliance Telecom Limited (RTL), a subsidary of ADAG, in Swan.
Swan Telecom, in which Tiger Traders Private Limited have 90.13 and RTL has 9.87 equity share capital, has been under the scanner over alleged diversion of funds to DMK-owned Kalaignar television.
DB Realty group Managing Director Shahid Usman Balwa was arrested by the CBI earlier this month.
After Ambani's, sources said other top brass of telecom companies including that of Tata Tele Services and Idea would be called for clarification.
According to the CAG, four companies including Reliance Communications Ltd were provided CDMA-based mobile service under Unified Access Service licence.
Based on the recommendations of TRAI, use of dual technology was permitted on October 17, 2007 and RCom is alleged to have applied even before the announcement of the policy.
Reliance Communication Ltd. had complied with the requirements for permission to use dual technology on October 19, 2007 itself by depositing the non refundable entry fee of Rs 1645 crore for 20 service areas through Reliance Infocomm Ltd.
The CAG had said that acceptance of bank draft from Reliance Infocomm Ltd (third party) on behalf of Reliance Communications Ltd was not in order and showed the hurry through which entry fee was deposited.
In a statement here, ADAG said, "During the course of his weekly visit to New Delhi, Ambani met CBI officials today to clarify ongoing issues, relating to telecom matters for the years 2001 to 2010, and virtually every telecom operator in the country."
It said no summons of any kind have been issued by CBI to Ambani.
ADAG statement said, "Neither Reliance Telecom nor RCOM nor any Reliance ADA Group individual, company or affiliate held even a single share in Swan Telecom Ltd at the time of grant of the 2G licence to them in january, 2008, or at any time thereafter."
Source: PTI
16/02/2011 Scams have affected our image, sapped our confidence: PM
New Delhi: At a roundtable with television editors in his home on Wednesday morning, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said there were complaints "from all sides" about the way former Telecom Minister A Raja had distributed 2G spectrum but he was "not in a position" to make up his mind if anything was seriously wrong.
Singh said he had made his concerns clear to A Raja on 2G spectrum allocation but was assured by Raja -- "on the same day" -- that he was doing nothing wrong and that his methods were "absolutely transparent".
Singh also said though he had conveyed his unease to Raja about 2G, he did not press further for auction after the Ministries of Telecom and Finance agreed to go by the prevailing system of first-come first-served. This decision was also supported by expert bodies like the TRAI and the Telecom Commission, he said.
The Prime Minister's meet comes amid increasing clamour that he speak on scams that have tainted the second term of the UPA government.
The Prime Minister assured the country that his government was "dead serious" on bringing to book all wrongdoers "regardless of their positions" in the 2G spectrum, CWG, ISRO and Adarsh scams.
Singh defended himself on Wednesday against accusations his government was a lame duck, saying it was trying to bring justice in some of the country's biggest corruption scandals in decades.
"Whatever some people may say, that we are a lame duck government, that I am a lame duck Prime Minister, we take our job very seriously. We are here to govern, and to govern effectively. Tackle the problems as they arise and get this country moving forward," he said.
Still on 2G, Singh said the issue of licences were never brought before him or the Cabinet.
The Prime Minister asserted that he was "not afraid of appearing before any committee, including a JPC". "I will be quite happy to appear before any committee," he said.
"I have never felt like resigning. I will stay the course. I have a job to do. I never thought of giving up half-way," he added.
About the re-induction of Raja despite complaints, he said in a coalition, it was not in his hands about whom to be inducted from a coalition partner. "You cannot suggest your preferences and you have to go by the choice of the leader of the party. "Raja and Dayanidhi Maran were the choice of DMK and I had no reason to feel that anything seriously wrong has been done. I did not feel that I had the authority to object to Raja's entry although complaints were coming from some companies who were not benefitted and some who had not benefitted adequately. I was not in a position to make up my mind about Raja," he said.
The Prime Minister said "in a coalition, there is a coalition dharma. Obviously, things are not entirely what I would like them to be."
Singh admitted there are certain compulsions in coalition politics, "compromises have to be made", but also assured that the coalition was strong and there was "no danger of inner tension leading to a break-up". "Our allies are with us whole-heartedly," he said.
"I don't say I have never made any mistake. But I am not that big a culprit as being made out to be," he said in reply to a question whether he would accept personal responsibility as head of the government for whatever has happened in the government.
"I am conscious about personal responsibility. I feel about it. My compulsion is that I have to bear a lot because we cannot have elections every six months. Some compromises have to be made in managing a coalition. A coalition government has to be viewed in a context that no single party has emerged to rule by itself," he said.
Singh also said the UPA government was in talks with the Opposition to break the logjam in Parliament over 2G. "Parliament should be allowed to function," he said.
On the controversial deal between Antrix, the commercial arm of ISRO and a private firm Devas for allocation of S-band spectrum, Singh said the deal has not been operationalised and the Cabinet Committee on Security would soon take a decision on terminating it, a decision on which was taken on July two last year.
He also rebutted reports that the PMO was involved in back channel discussions as late as November last year with Devas even as a decision was taken to terminate it.
"I have not talked to anybody... The PMO has not talked to anybody. The German Foreign Minister who had a meeting with me did not raise this issue."
He said different departments including the Law Ministry have recommended termination of the contract but there were only procedural delays in implementing it.
To a specific question whether he would be ready to be projected as Prime Ministerial candidate in the next elections, Singh said: "It is too early. We still have a long way to go. I have to complete this term. It is too premature to speculate who would be the Prime Ministerial candidate."
He was asked whether he was feeling bad as certain embarrassing things were happening which were not in tune with his nature.
"I have looked upon life as a learning and re-learning process. It has been a great educational experience from civil service to academic world to political world. This process of learning, I relish that", he replied.
Asked whether the rash of scams has affected India's image globally, Singh said "it is a sort of atmosphere that saps our confidence. Our image is affected. I urge each one of you (media) that while opinions are speculative, facts are sacred. The facts should not be distorted."
"We owe it to our country that at least in dealing with facts, we should be as objective as possible. One can freely express their opinions. But in our reporting on country's affairs, we should deal with facts as objectively as possible," he said.
On corruption, he said a Group of Ministers has been set up under the leadership of Pranab Mukerjee to recommend ways to deal with the menace. It has been given 60 days time to give its report.
On black money stashed abroad, he said, "We will take all steps to bring all blackmoney that is legally ours."
He said efforts are on to sign treaties with other countries to get information about black money abroad.
To a question on the delay in the probe into the Commonwealth games which he had promised to complete within 90 days, the Prime Minister said "we are trying out best. But we will have to do the due process of law".
"It is very frustrating that it takes time. But this time the culprits will not escape," he said.
In his opening remarks, the Prime Minister referred to the media expose of various scams including the Commonwealth Games, ISRO deal, Adarsh housing affairs but asked the media not to give an image that India was a scam-driven country and nothing good was happening.
He said that such an image would weaken the self-confidence of the people and it would not be in the interest of the country.
To a question what was his biggest regret in UPA-II, Singh said that "these irregularities have happened. They should not have happened. I am not very happy about these developments".
To a question on Home Minister P Chidambaram's comments on governance deficit, he admitted, "Obviously, some events have brought out the weaknesses in governance and processes, I think we need to improve the quality of governance. But that does not divide me and other members of the government."
He rejected a questioner's suggestion that his government was facing double-incumbency of attacks from the opposition and within the party.
"I do not get that impression (party not backing him). In a democracy, there are views and discussions and when decisions are taken, our party stands united in support of the government.
"I would like a cohesive party to support the government but I am not saying it is not happening," he said.
Allegations the government may have lost up to $39 billion in revenues after firms were awarded telecoms deals at rock-bottom prices in return for kickbacks have rocked the ruling coalition and compounded India's fragile investment climate.
The 78-year-old Singh has been under increasing pressure to stamp out on corruption and his decision-making appears to have been paralysed in his second term despite winning re-election with an increased majority.
The scandals have taken a heavy toll on Singh, concerned his legacy is transforming from one of being the founders of India's economic boom to someone who did nothing to stop corruption or policy paralysis.
Singh may have hoped the current scandals would ebb. But an aggressive media, an assertive Supreme Court and an opposition tasting political blood have seen momentum into the corruption probes grow.
Policy making has also been in limbo since his re-election in 2009 as the government battles fires from inflation to graft scandals. Reforms like opening up retail and the financial sector to foreign investment have been put on the back burner.
The government appeared close to agreeing to a broad, cross-party investigation in the scandal, paving the way for Parliament to resume as normal for a February 21 budget session.
But there were few signs the Parliamentary session would lead to any more reform bills.
Some commentators say there could be a repeat of 1989, when Congress lost a general election due to the Bofors scandal over gun contracts involving close associates of then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi who were accused of taking bribes.
Source: Agencies
16/02/2011 Devas threatens legal action if ISRO deal annulled
New Delhi: Objecting to a government move to annul its contract with Antrix following the S-band spectrum controversy, Devas Multimedia today said it would take "strong" legal steps to protect its rights and interests.
Antariksh Bhavan in Bangalore houses the Antrix Corporation.
Contending that it had a legally binding agreement with ISRO's commercial arm Antrix, Devas said it expected the government to fulfill all its obligations under the agreement and will take strong steps, including legal, to protect its rights.
"We have grave concerns regarding the government's statement today on pre-meditated annulment of the agreement, despite pending high-power committee and CAG reviews which are still in the preliminary stages," a statement issued by the Bangalore-based company said here.
It termed as "disturbing and inappropriate" the government's "unilateral" decision to terminate the agreement "without due investigative process and without following the principles of natural justice".
"In spite of the company's willingness to co-operate and assist in required government reviews without prejudice to our legal rights, we have not yet heard from the government in this regard," the statement said.
"The Devas-DOS/ISRO/Antrix Agreement is in line with the government's 1997 SatCom Policy. The company has complied with all its obligations under this agreement and is in compliance with all laws and rules in respect of conducting its business," it said.
"The company also notes the increasing public awareness of the vested political and business interests in conjunction with certain media organisations that have been instrumental in bringing about an intentional gross misrepresentation of the facts of Devas-DOS/ISRO/Antrix satellite transponder capacity lease and tying it inappropriately to unrelated telecom spectrum issues for their own purposes," the statement said.
Source: PTI
Wall Street rises on M&A, Dell earns
1 Hour ago
REUTERSUS stocks advanced on Wednesday after stronger-than-expected Dell earnings and a flurry of deal news. M&A activity has picked up, raising hopes it will bring more fresh cash into the market.
India needs law against invasion of privacy: Ratan Tata1 Hour ago
PTIAmid raging controversy over phone tapping, Tata Group Chairman Ratan Tata has said there is a need for a law to keep a tab on invasion of people's privacy.
UK to exempt high earners from immigration cap1 Hour ago
PTIHigh-earning non-European professionals, including Indians, will be exempted from an annual UK immigration cap which will come into effect in April.
- Rolls Royce fails to keep up with demand in India
- Nokia says can tweak WP7, but sees no need
- Etisalat sees India dropping case in licence row
- Ford India to launch eight more models in four years
- RIL plans upto $30 bn investment in next five years
- Google feels 'sorry' for Nokia-Microsoft partnership
- B'wood takes breather as World Cup grabs spotlight
- Swiss bank denies any dealings with Hasan Ali Khan
- CSK-KKR in opener; IPL to have new play-off system
- CWG scam: Another Kalmadi aide questioned by CBI
- India, Japan aim for $25 bn trade by 2014
- Losses on diesel sales touch a record Rs 10.74/L
India needs law against invasion of privacy: Ratan Tata
16 Feb, 2011, 2213 hrs IST, PTIAmid raging controversy over phone tapping, Tata Group Chairman Ratan Tata has said there is a need for a law to keep a tab on invasion of people's privacy.
Rationalise I-T slabs, address inflation; Congress to Pranab
ET BureauCongress wishlist for Budget 2011-12 includes rationalisation of I-T slabs, lowering education and home loan interest rates, cash subsidy for the poor, better compensation for land acquired and enhanced allocation for minorities schemes. Budget 2011: Subsidise R&D in technology, say experts
Given a huge offtake in hardware & software in future, we should encourage home-grown R&D and innovation. It should alaso foster linkages between industry and research organisations. Reduce stamp duty on realty deals: Industry experts
ET NowRealtors wish list includes measures to lower interest rates on home loans, reduction in stamp duty and rollback of service tax on projects under construction. Budget could extend tax benefit on infrastructure bonds by a year
ET BureauLast budget had allowed a deduction of an additional Rs 20,000 for investment in longterm infra bonds, over and above the Rs 1 lakh limit prescribed for investments in tax saving schemes. Top 10 expectations from Union Budget 2011
Budget seems to be testing time for the FM. Given the political landscape and with elections due in some states, carrying forward reforms would be a tough call. E&Y lists top ten most pressing demands. Brought to you by Govt mulls sops to encourage hybrid car manufacturing
11:23 AM, 13-Feb-11, PTIHybrid cars, which runs both on the conventional fuel as also electricity charged battery, are at present imported in India. Wall Street rises on M&A, Dell earns
US stocks advanced on Wednesday after stronger-than-expected Dell earnings and a flurry of deal news. M&A activity has picked up, raising hopes it will bring more fresh cash into the market. Farmers in calamity prone areas may get 2% subsidy on farm loans
Proposal is aimed at showcasing UPA govt's commitment to tackling farm sector distress, especially in districts that are prone to natural calamities. Power Stocks Raise I-T exemption limit to Rs 3 lakh: Survey
Under the Direct Taxes Code (DTC) Bill which was introduced in Parliament last year, the I-T exemption limit is Rs 2 lakh. Two-year FDs fetch more than 5-yr deposits
Banks are offering their highest returns in the one to two-year category of deposits, an indication that they expect interest rates to come down. Key people who will shape the Budget with Pranab
FM has relied on a team of experienced hands for finalising a Budget that will address a tide of economic woes. Budget 2010 neither populist nor radical: Swaminathan Aiyar
Budget 2010 assumed that the global economy will not slow down and India's inflation would be around 9%. Pranab avoided any significant reforms.
"On January 9, 2008, a decision was taken by secretary DoT to issue LoI with an observation that the applicant fulfilled the requisite conditions, apparently without any further deliberation /verification. Said decision was also approved by the minister," Justice Patil says in his report.
The CAG has identified Swan Telecom in its November 2010 report as a key beneficiary of A Raja's first-come-first-served policy. The Patil committee documents DoT's special dispensation in awarding two licences to Allianz Infratech.
Later, Etisalat acquired 45% stake in Swan and the new entity, Etisalat DB, went on to acquire Allianz Infratech, which in turn brought in another two telecom circles into its fold. Swan submitted a Company Secretary's certificate to establish its prescribed net worth and paid up capital requirements as eligibility for the grant of Unified Access Service Licences for 13 service areas. The details of one of its promoters, Tiger Traders Pvt Ltd was not available on the date of application for ascertaining eligibility.
There was doubt over compliance of the substantial equity clause as it was not clear if the preferential shares had to be included for the purpose of reckoning substantial equity. "This can be noticed from the note (that) was put up by Accounts Officer (LF-II ) on 9.1.2008. On earlier occasion, a proposal was made to approach department of corporate affairs for ascertaining if applicant met the substantial equity stipulations," the report said.
Despite these omissions, the decision to award Swan its LoIs was taken in a rush without ascertaining eligibility, and could lead to an ineligible applicant being granted licence.
Patil concludes, based on the file notings of January 9, 2008 that this act of granting licences "could lead to arbitrary exercise of power resulting in favouritism". In case of Allianz Infratech., applications were put in for the grant of 22 licences on September 3, 2007. The company initially indicated that its net worth across four promoters was Rs 600 crore, but later sent a fax dated October 1, 2007 claiming a net worth in excess of Rs 2,950 crore.
The Patil report said: "Subsequently, in place of two individual promoters a company stepped in. In terms of a note dated January 9, 2008 put by DDG-LF (licence fee) it was noticed that the claim for net worth for either of the amounts was not supported by details. Further at the time of application the memorandum of association did not include telecom services in its object clause."
On December 12, 2007, Allianz Infratech informed DoT that the memorandum of association (MOA) was amended to include telecom-related activities on September 1, 2007. Yet, DoT records show the registrar of companies had taken on record this amendment on October 26, 2007.
"... It is not forthcoming that there was any proof of applicant having filed amendment to MOA with the ROC before submitting application. Despite the same, proposal for issuing of LoI was approved by member (finance), Secretary DoT and MoCIT on 9.1.2008 apparently without verification as to the eligibility of the applicant in terms of stipulated net worth" , it said.
2G: CBI questions Anil Ambani on dual tech, role in Swan Tele
New Delhi: The CBI today questioned ADAG chairman Anil Ambani amid allegations that his group received favours from former Telecom Minister A Raja in getting dual technology and a role for Reliance Telecom in promoting Swan Telecom.
Ambani, 51, arrived at the CBI headquarters much ahead of the scheduled time of 5 pm and waited at the reception before he was quizzed by the agency officials, CBI sources said.
He did not speak to the media before entering the CBI headquarters for giving clarifications on the possible role of Reliance Telecom Limited (RTL), a subsidary of ADAG, in Swan.
Swan Telecom, in which Tiger Traders Private Limited have 90.13 and RTL has 9.87 equity share capital, has been under the scanner over alleged diversion of funds to DMK-owned Kalaignar television.
DB Realty group Managing Director Shahid Usman Balwa was arrested by the CBI earlier this month.
After Ambani's, sources said other top brass of telecom companies including that of Tata Tele Services and Idea would be called for clarification.
According to the CAG, four companies including Reliance Communications Ltd were provided CDMA-based mobile service under Unified Access Service licence.
Based on the recommendations of TRAI, use of dual technology was permitted on October 17, 2007 and RCom is alleged to have applied even before the announcement of the policy.
Reliance Communication Ltd. had complied with the requirements for permission to use dual technology on October 19, 2007 itself by depositing the non refundable entry fee of Rs 1645 crore for 20 service areas through Reliance Infocomm Ltd.
The CAG had said that acceptance of bank draft from Reliance Infocomm Ltd (third party) on behalf of Reliance Communications Ltd was not in order and showed the hurry through which entry fee was deposited.
In a statement here, ADAG said, "During the course of his weekly visit to New Delhi, Ambani met CBI officials today to clarify ongoing issues, relating to telecom matters for the years 2001 to 2010, and virtually every telecom operator in the country."
It said no summons of any kind have been issued by CBI to Ambani.
ADAG statement said, "Neither Reliance Telecom nor RCOM nor any Reliance ADA Group individual, company or affiliate held even a single share in Swan Telecom Ltd at the time of grant of the 2G licence to them in january, 2008, or at any time thereafter."
Source: PTI
Scams have affected our image, sapped our confidence: PM
New Delhi: At a roundtable with television editors in his home on Wednesday morning, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said there were complaints "from all sides" about the way former Telecom Minister A Raja had distributed 2G spectrum but he was "not in a position" to make up his mind if anything was seriously wrong.
Singh said he had made his concerns clear to A Raja on 2G spectrum allocation but was assured by Raja -- "on the same day" -- that he was doing nothing wrong and that his methods were "absolutely transparent".
Singh also said though he had conveyed his unease to Raja about 2G, he did not press further for auction after the Ministries of Telecom and Finance agreed to go by the prevailing system of first-come first-served. This decision was also supported by expert bodies like the TRAI and the Telecom Commission, he said.
The Prime Minister's meet comes amid increasing clamour that he speak on scams that have tainted the second term of the UPA government.
The Prime Minister assured the country that his government was "dead serious" on bringing to book all wrongdoers "regardless of their positions" in the 2G spectrum, CWG, ISRO and Adarsh scams.
Singh defended himself on Wednesday against accusations his government was a lame duck, saying it was trying to bring justice in some of the country's biggest corruption scandals in decades.
"Whatever some people may say, that we are a lame duck government, that I am a lame duck Prime Minister, we take our job very seriously. We are here to govern, and to govern effectively. Tackle the problems as they arise and get this country moving forward," he said.
Still on 2G, Singh said the issue of licences were never brought before him or the Cabinet.
The Prime Minister asserted that he was "not afraid of appearing before any committee, including a JPC". "I will be quite happy to appear before any committee," he said.
"I have never felt like resigning. I will stay the course. I have a job to do. I never thought of giving up half-way," he added.
About the re-induction of Raja despite complaints, he said in a coalition, it was not in his hands about whom to be inducted from a coalition partner. "You cannot suggest your preferences and you have to go by the choice of the leader of the party. "Raja and Dayanidhi Maran were the choice of DMK and I had no reason to feel that anything seriously wrong has been done. I did not feel that I had the authority to object to Raja's entry although complaints were coming from some companies who were not benefitted and some who had not benefitted adequately. I was not in a position to make up my mind about Raja," he said.
The Prime Minister said "in a coalition, there is a coalition dharma. Obviously, things are not entirely what I would like them to be."
Singh admitted there are certain compulsions in coalition politics, "compromises have to be made", but also assured that the coalition was strong and there was "no danger of inner tension leading to a break-up". "Our allies are with us whole-heartedly," he said.
"I don't say I have never made any mistake. But I am not that big a culprit as being made out to be," he said in reply to a question whether he would accept personal responsibility as head of the government for whatever has happened in the government.
"I am conscious about personal responsibility. I feel about it. My compulsion is that I have to bear a lot because we cannot have elections every six months. Some compromises have to be made in managing a coalition. A coalition government has to be viewed in a context that no single party has emerged to rule by itself," he said.
Singh also said the UPA government was in talks with the Opposition to break the logjam in Parliament over 2G. "Parliament should be allowed to function," he said.
On the controversial deal between Antrix, the commercial arm of ISRO and a private firm Devas for allocation of S-band spectrum, Singh said the deal has not been operationalised and the Cabinet Committee on Security would soon take a decision on terminating it, a decision on which was taken on July two last year.
He also rebutted reports that the PMO was involved in back channel discussions as late as November last year with Devas even as a decision was taken to terminate it.
"I have not talked to anybody... The PMO has not talked to anybody. The German Foreign Minister who had a meeting with me did not raise this issue."
He said different departments including the Law Ministry have recommended termination of the contract but there were only procedural delays in implementing it.
To a specific question whether he would be ready to be projected as Prime Ministerial candidate in the next elections, Singh said: "It is too early. We still have a long way to go. I have to complete this term. It is too premature to speculate who would be the Prime Ministerial candidate."
He was asked whether he was feeling bad as certain embarrassing things were happening which were not in tune with his nature.
"I have looked upon life as a learning and re-learning process. It has been a great educational experience from civil service to academic world to political world. This process of learning, I relish that", he replied.
Asked whether the rash of scams has affected India's image globally, Singh said "it is a sort of atmosphere that saps our confidence. Our image is affected. I urge each one of you (media) that while opinions are speculative, facts are sacred. The facts should not be distorted."
"We owe it to our country that at least in dealing with facts, we should be as objective as possible. One can freely express their opinions. But in our reporting on country's affairs, we should deal with facts as objectively as possible," he said.
On corruption, he said a Group of Ministers has been set up under the leadership of Pranab Mukerjee to recommend ways to deal with the menace. It has been given 60 days time to give its report.
On black money stashed abroad, he said, "We will take all steps to bring all blackmoney that is legally ours."
He said efforts are on to sign treaties with other countries to get information about black money abroad.
To a question on the delay in the probe into the Commonwealth games which he had promised to complete within 90 days, the Prime Minister said "we are trying out best. But we will have to do the due process of law".
"It is very frustrating that it takes time. But this time the culprits will not escape," he said.
In his opening remarks, the Prime Minister referred to the media expose of various scams including the Commonwealth Games, ISRO deal, Adarsh housing affairs but asked the media not to give an image that India was a scam-driven country and nothing good was happening.
He said that such an image would weaken the self-confidence of the people and it would not be in the interest of the country.
To a question what was his biggest regret in UPA-II, Singh said that "these irregularities have happened. They should not have happened. I am not very happy about these developments".
To a question on Home Minister P Chidambaram's comments on governance deficit, he admitted, "Obviously, some events have brought out the weaknesses in governance and processes, I think we need to improve the quality of governance. But that does not divide me and other members of the government."
He rejected a questioner's suggestion that his government was facing double-incumbency of attacks from the opposition and within the party.
"I do not get that impression (party not backing him). In a democracy, there are views and discussions and when decisions are taken, our party stands united in support of the government.
"I would like a cohesive party to support the government but I am not saying it is not happening," he said.
Allegations the government may have lost up to $39 billion in revenues after firms were awarded telecoms deals at rock-bottom prices in return for kickbacks have rocked the ruling coalition and compounded India's fragile investment climate.
The 78-year-old Singh has been under increasing pressure to stamp out on corruption and his decision-making appears to have been paralysed in his second term despite winning re-election with an increased majority.
The scandals have taken a heavy toll on Singh, concerned his legacy is transforming from one of being the founders of India's economic boom to someone who did nothing to stop corruption or policy paralysis.
Singh may have hoped the current scandals would ebb. But an aggressive media, an assertive Supreme Court and an opposition tasting political blood have seen momentum into the corruption probes grow.
Policy making has also been in limbo since his re-election in 2009 as the government battles fires from inflation to graft scandals. Reforms like opening up retail and the financial sector to foreign investment have been put on the back burner.
The government appeared close to agreeing to a broad, cross-party investigation in the scandal, paving the way for Parliament to resume as normal for a February 21 budget session.
But there were few signs the Parliamentary session would lead to any more reform bills.
Some commentators say there could be a repeat of 1989, when Congress lost a general election due to the Bofors scandal over gun contracts involving close associates of then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi who were accused of taking bribes.
Source: Agencies
Devas threatens legal action if ISRO deal annulled
New Delhi: Objecting to a government move to annul its contract with Antrix following the S-band spectrum controversy, Devas Multimedia today said it would take "strong" legal steps to protect its rights and interests.
Antariksh Bhavan in Bangalore houses the Antrix Corporation.
Contending that it had a legally binding agreement with ISRO's commercial arm Antrix, Devas said it expected the government to fulfill all its obligations under the agreement and will take strong steps, including legal, to protect its rights.
"We have grave concerns regarding the government's statement today on pre-meditated annulment of the agreement, despite pending high-power committee and CAG reviews which are still in the preliminary stages," a statement issued by the Bangalore-based company said here.
It termed as "disturbing and inappropriate" the government's "unilateral" decision to terminate the agreement "without due investigative process and without following the principles of natural justice".
"In spite of the company's willingness to co-operate and assist in required government reviews without prejudice to our legal rights, we have not yet heard from the government in this regard," the statement said.
"The Devas-DOS/ISRO/Antrix Agreement is in line with the government's 1997 SatCom Policy. The company has complied with all its obligations under this agreement and is in compliance with all laws and rules in respect of conducting its business," it said.
"The company also notes the increasing public awareness of the vested political and business interests in conjunction with certain media organisations that have been instrumental in bringing about an intentional gross misrepresentation of the facts of Devas-DOS/ISRO/Antrix satellite transponder capacity lease and tying it inappropriately to unrelated telecom spectrum issues for their own purposes," the statement said.
Source: PTI
Wall Street rises on M&A, Dell earns
1 Hour ago
- Rolls Royce fails to keep up with demand in India
- Nokia says can tweak WP7, but sees no need
- Etisalat sees India dropping case in licence row
- Ford India to launch eight more models in four years
- RIL plans upto $30 bn investment in next five years
- Google feels 'sorry' for Nokia-Microsoft partnership
- B'wood takes breather as World Cup grabs spotlight
- Swiss bank denies any dealings with Hasan Ali Khan
- CSK-KKR in opener; IPL to have new play-off system
- CWG scam: Another Kalmadi aide questioned by CBI
- India, Japan aim for $25 bn trade by 2014
- Losses on diesel sales touch a record Rs 10.74/L
16 Feb, 2011, 2213 hrs IST, PTIAmid raging controversy over phone tapping, Tata Group Chairman Ratan Tata has said there is a need for a law to keep a tab on invasion of people's privacy.
Rationalise I-T slabs, address inflation; Congress to Pranab
Budget 2011: Subsidise R&D in technology, say experts
Given a huge offtake in hardware & software in future, we should encourage home-grown R&D and innovation. It should alaso foster linkages between industry and research organisations.Reduce stamp duty on realty deals: Industry experts
Budget could extend tax benefit on infrastructure bonds by a year
Top 10 expectations from Union Budget 2011
Budget seems to be testing time for the FM. Given the political landscape and with elections due in some states, carrying forward reforms would be a tough call. E&Y lists top ten most pressing demands.
Govt mulls sops to encourage hybrid car manufacturing11:23 AM, 13-Feb-11, PTIHybrid cars, which runs both on the conventional fuel as also electricity charged battery, are at present imported in India.
US stocks advanced on Wednesday after stronger-than-expected Dell earnings and a flurry of deal news. M&A activity has picked up, raising hopes it will bring more fresh cash into the market.
Proposal is aimed at showcasing UPA govt's commitment to tackling farm sector distress, especially in districts that are prone to natural calamities.
Under the Direct Taxes Code (DTC) Bill which was introduced in Parliament last year, the I-T exemption limit is Rs 2 lakh.
Banks are offering their highest returns in the one to two-year category of deposits, an indication that they expect interest rates to come down.
FM has relied on a team of experienced hands for finalising a Budget that will address a tide of economic woes.
Budget 2010 assumed that the global economy will not slow down and India's inflation would be around 9%. Pranab avoided any significant reforms.
Related
Timeline of articles
Did BJP put pressure on Prime Minister over Amit Shah? 1 hour ago - NDTV.com | |
Never felt like quitting as I have a job to do: PM 11 hours ago - Economic Times | |
HIGHLIGHTS - Comments by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh 11 hours ago - IBNLive.com | |
PM breaks silence on scams, offers no answers 12 hours ago - IBNLive.com | |
Indian PM to face media grilling Feb 15, 2011 - AFP |
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