20 January 2012; Vodafone Group (“Vodafone”) has received the judgment of the Indian Supreme Court.  The Court has concluded that Vodafone had no liability to account for withholding tax on its acquisition of interests in Hutchison Essar Limited (now Vodafone India Limited) in 2007.

For further information:

Vodafone Group

About Vodafone

Vodafone is one of the world’s largest mobile communications companies by revenue with approximately 391 million customers in its controlled and jointly controlled markets as at 30 September 2011. Vodafone currently has equity interests in over 30 countries across five continents and more than 40 partner networks worldwide.  For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com

Lulu Bridges, Director

Tavistock Communications

131 Finsbury Pavement

London, EC2A 1NT

Tel: +44 20 7920 3150

Mob: +44 7831 170 364

Web: www.tavistock.co.uk

Bhopal, 25th December 2011: Film and TV Actress Prachi Desai unveils glitzy stores with the dazzling product display and the plush interiors are knocking the doors of the Uvicom Mobile Store. Anticipating the changes and foreseeing the imminent scenario, Uvicom inaugurated the first mobile shoppe in , 301 IInd Floor, Jyoti Shopping Complex, MP Nagar, Zone I Bhopal.

On this Occasion, Gorgeous and heart-throb Film Actress Prachi Desai said “I am glad to be here at the launch of Uvicom Mobile. Uvicom represents the cheapest mobiles with whole lot of features. I am sure their New Mobile V1 Dhoom and V2 Curve will ensure a quality experience to consumers. The Uvicom is well on its way in becoming the preferred destination for mobiles and mobile related shopping. Uvicom is known for its customer focused approach in its product and marketing strategy. This brand has provided a huge employment in these areas but also offered the common man the desired gadget needed to upgrade in one’s life”.

She echoes that “ Uvicom is committed to bringing the best of services for its value customers. Uvicom aims to cater to the needs of the tech-savvy Indian mobile users at an affordable price and change the face of Bhopal by propagating the usage of next generation mobile technology as a way of life.

Mr. Rajesh Singh Thakur, CMD, Uvicom Mobiles says “ “We are delighted to have Ms. Prachi Desai with us on this special occasion. Madhya Pradesh, one of the fastest growing telecom markets in the Central India, is known for its discerning customers.

To meet growing demand Uvicom represents the cheapest mobiles phones ever. Mobiles phones, chargers, batteries, accessories are Company’s main strength. Uvicom Mobiles V1 Dhoom and V2 Curve are enriched with a whole lot of features to attract customers and gratify them fully with limitless freedom. Uvicom is going to launch in South Africa by the end of February.

He added “We are leading mobile accessories manufacturer in Madhya Pradesh and spreading all over the India and other countries very soon. We are servicing our customer for more than 10 years and we have wide range of products that suits every customer from low to high end. Our Mobile Handset V1 Dhoom and V2 Curve caters to the needs of the tech-savvy Indian mobile users at an affordable price and change the face of Bhopal by propagating the usage of next generation mobile technology as a way of life. We not only deliver quality products but also demonstrate Processes quality, People quality, Service quality and Promotions quality.

According to Mr. Jitendra Singh Thakur, Director, Uvicom “V1 Dhoom is a phone with life. It breathes and the joy it spreads is infectious. Its decibel volumes are sure to blow away any doubts that you may have.” Uvicom has been dedicated to make a better world through its wide range of its products that today span of advanced mobile phones and its accessories.
Shri Jayant Malaiya, Minister, Water Resources & Environment , Shri Dhruv Narayan Singh, MLA and Shri Rakesh Kumar, DGM, Circle Head, Punjab National Bank were also present on the occasion.

Uvicom has wide range of product from low end to high end smart phones. We have around 15 Model coming in next year with android smart phones. We have also wide range of premium accessories that work best with your mobile handset. Uvicom Mobile is now available in select mobile retail stores across India and South Africa. For more information, please visit http://uvicom.in/

TEMA India today raised the issue of defiance of direction’s of PM & the National Telecom Policies by the DOT

New Delhi, 23rd December, 2011: The Indian Telecom Equipment Manufacturers Association (TEMA) today in a communication to the Honorable Prime Minister, Government of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh and the Honorable Minster of Communications & IT Shri Kapil Sibal raised the issue of defiance by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).

According to the communication sent to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and Communications Minister’s Office, TEMA has raised the issue of slackness on the part of the Department of Telecommunications in terms of implementing the directions laid down in the National Telecom Policies of 1994 & 1999 relating to the local telecom equipment induction in the national telecom networks.

“Both the earlier National Telecom Policies of 1994 and 1999 had suggested the induction of indigenous telecom equipment manufactured by the Indian telecom equipment manufacturers which was endorsed by the Parliament of India are being held hostage by the officials of the Department of Telecommunication,” said Mr Ashok K. Aggarwal, Honorary Director General, Telecom Equipment Manufacturers Association. He further added that the draft NTP-2011 released recently also contains similar positive suggestions and directions. Mr. Aggarwal, however, expressed his deep concern and anguish that like the earlier policies of 1994 & 1999, the new policy which is on the anvil may also go unimplemented in the right spirit if the Government does not outline a strict time bound mechanism for implementing the same.

In its communiqué, TEMA has appreciated the statements made by the Honorable Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh at various forms supporting the Indian telecom manufacturing sector. “Today the condition of domestic manufacturing sector is at a very dismal level as compared to the vast expansion of our telecom network which is dominated by the imported equipment, meaning thereby that at the current rupee-dollar exchange rate, our import bill will further increase, up-setting our economy. Therefore, it is in the interest of overall economy that the Government implements what has been suggested in the two NTPs, and now the draft NTP-2011” added Mr Aggarwal.

To bring up the domestic manufacturing industry from the dismal situation, the TEMA has suggested that:

a) Preferential treatment to be mandated for ‘Indian Products’ for which know-how, design control & product IPR resides in India;

b) Introduce R&D Cess on all Licensed Telecom Service Providers; Incentivize Service Providers by granting reduced contribution in graded manner on meeting yearly targets of purchasing “Indian Products;

In its communication TEMA has also suggested the Indian Government to take cognizance of this situation before it reaches an alarming proportion through continuous use of imported equipment and even increasing foreign exchange outgo from the country.

About TEMA

Established in 1990, Telecom Equipment Manufacturers’ Association of India (TEMA) is recognized by the Government of India as the National Apex body to represent telecom Technology Providers, Global and Indian, Private and Government owned companies.

TEMA plays the critical role of advising the government and influencing decisions relating to Indian telecom industry. TEMA also enjoys the privilege of proposing names of technical experts from the industry to various telecom committees of the Government of India and major national industry associations for valuable contributions at every stage of the evolving telecom manufacturing sector in the country. TEMA has membership of more than 100 members.

For Further Information Contact:

Rajesh Prothi
Absolute Factor
Email: rajesh.prothi@absolutefactor.com
Phone: + 91 98102 09123

New Delhi, 9th December, 2011: The Indian Telecom Equipment Manufacturers Association (TEMA) today in a communication to the Honorable Prime Minister, Government of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh and the Honorable Minster of Home Affairs Shri P Chidambaram raised the issue of susceptibility of the Indian telecommunication network to collapse at any critical juncture due to lack of initiative on the part of the UPA Government.
According to the communication sent to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and to the Minister of Home Affair’s office, TEMA has raised the issue of “too much dependability” on the foreign telecommunication Companies for the Indian telecommunication Infrastructure, thereby raising the vulnerability of National Threat.
“The United States of America too has similar concerns as India’s. They have taken the issue of large scale use of foreign made equipments in their telecom networks seriously. We are in a much worse condition, as almost all the critical sub systems of our nationwide telecom network have foreign equipment in it and we are not taking any concrete step in mitigating this potential threat which exists by promoting the use of indigenous equipments into the network ” said Mr Ashok K. Aggarwal, Honorary Director General, Telecom Equipment Manufacturers Association.
In its communiqué, TEMA has drawn UPA Government’s attention towards the recent investigation initiated by the US House of Representative’s PERMANENT SELECT COMMITTEE on INTELLIGENCE (HPSCI) to gauge the level of threat posed to the United States and take the necessary steps to mitigate the same. The Chairman of HPSCI’s concern about the aggressive hacking of US networks and the possible impact on America’s National Security which may compromise its competitiveness in the world market.
TEMA has further drawn attention towards the survey where the US Commerce Department has asked for a detailed accounting of foreign-made hardware/software on the service provider’s network along with the information related to security incidents such as discovery of “unauthorized electronic hardware” or suspicious equipment capable of duplicating or redirecting data.
Referring to various media report and occasional statements made by various Government officials regarding the potential threat due to imported and untested telecommunication components present in the telecommunication infrastructure, the TEMA has drawn the attention of the UPA Government towards the recent developments in the United States of America.
“Our situation is no different than that of the US except that they are proactive, while we have yet to take necessary steps towards correcting the situation”, added Mr. Aggarwal.
It its communication TEMA has suggested the Indian Government to take cognizance of this situation before it reaches an alarming proportion through continuous use of imported equipment. In this context, TEMA has been suggesting to make it mandatory for the Indian telecom service providers to induct homemade equipment for which complete know-how and expertise in available in the country and is not be susceptible to hijacking the control by any foreign country through use of hidden spyware.

About TEMA

Established in 1990, Telecom Equipment Manufacturers’ Association of India (TEMA) is recognized by the Government of India as the National Apex body to represent telecom Technology Providers, Global and Indian, Private and Government owned companies.

TEMA plays the critical role of advising the government and influencing decisions relating to Indian telecom industry. TEMA also enjoys the privilege of proposing names of technical experts from the industry to various telecom committees of the Government of India and major national industry associations for valuable contributions at every stage of the evolving telecom manufacturing sector in the country. TEMA has membership of more than 100 members.

For Further Information Contact:

Sanjeev Kakkar
Advisor, TEMA
Email : sanjeev.tema@gmail.com

Shrishti
Absolute Factor
Mobile : 0 96501 87059
Email: shrishti@absolutefactor.com

New Delhi 5th December, 2011: Telecom Equipment Manufacturers Association (TEMA) today congratulated the Center for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) for developing the Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) Technology.

“The indigenously developed GPON technology vindicates TEMA’s stand about the capabilities of Indian Research & Development and local manufacturing by Indian organizations. C-DOT has showcased its muscle in the field of R&D in the telecommunication arena, “ said Ashok K. Aggarwal, Honorary Director General, Telecom Equipment Manufacturers Association.

GPON technology, which is pivotal component for broadband connectivity over optical fibre, has already become operational in the BSNL Network at Ajmer, Rajasthan.
“With the transfer of GPON technology to Indian telecommunications manufactures in the public and private domain, not only C-DOT, but Indian Telecommunication Equipment Manufactures’ will further get the much needed encouragement and commitment by the Government of India, “ added Mr. Aggarwal.

The C-DOT’s technology, GPON is being targeted at fibre expansion in the country, which is expected to address the much need requirements of making the national programmes such as National Optical Fiber Network (NOFN) and State-Wide-Area-Network (SWAN) connected across rural and remote areas a reality.

TEMA is of the view that GPON technology will help the country in providing a future proof broadband solution to village panchayats and take benefits of e-Education, e-Governence, e-Commerce and e-Medicine.

About TEMA

Established in 1990, Telecom Equipment Manufacturers’ Association of India (TEMA) is recognized by the Government of India as the National Apex body to represent telecom Technology Providers, Global and Indian, Private and Government owned companies.

TEMA plays the critical role of advising the government and influencing decisions relating to Indian telecom industry. TEMA also enjoys the privilege of proposing names of technical experts from the industry to various telecom committees of the Government of India and major national industry associations for valuable contributions at every stage of the evolving telecom manufacturing sector in the country. TEMA has membership of more than 150 members.

For Further Information Contact:

Shrishti
Absolute Factor
Mobile : + 91 9650 187059
Email: shrishti@absolutefactor.com

‘Jeet Ki Ghanti Kabhi Bhi Baj Sakti Hai’

Tata DOCOMO, the unified telecom brand of Tata Teleservices Limited (TTL), today launched one of the largest SMS-based contests in the country, ever, titled ‘Jeet Ki Ghanti Kabhi Bhi Baj Sakti Hai’. This campaign will gives customers across all Circles (except Delhi & J&K) a chance to win a Chevrolet Beat Car every day, a Yamaha YBR Bike every hour and Rs. 1 cr. of talk-time across 28 days. The contest is open to all Tata DOCOMO CDMA and GSM pre-paid and post-paid mobile customers till 25 December 2011. This is one of the biggest consumer promotional offers—aimed at bringing excitement and novelty to the customer’s lives. Customers across Circles will capitalize on this opportunity to win some exciting prizes, ranging from free talk-time to a swanky new car.

In yet another category first, this is the only consumer promotion ever where there is no linkage with a purchase. It’s designed to reward existing Tata DOCOMO CDMA and GSM customers for putting their faith in the network.

To participate in the contest, Tata DOCOMO users will have to SMS TICKET to 52121 (toll-free), and will receive an alpha-numeric code (TICKET) that will make them eligible to participate in the day’s lucky draw. Users of the brand can register every day and get assured More Than Full Talk-time benefits — through a special recharge offer during the promo period.

One winner every hour (draws from 10 am to 5 pm) will win a new Yamaha YBR 125 bike. Also, chosen through a Grand Lucky Draw, one lucky customer will drive home in a Chevrolet Beat, every day through the duration of this promotional offer. Magnitude of prizes is up for grabs over the 28 days of the contest—this includes 28 cars and 224 bikes, apart from the free talk-time prizes.

To know more, click here (http://www.tatadocomo.com/jkg).

The seminar was organised to highlight the Industry Insights of Best Practices for Internet and Mobile Marketing. The effort was to interface Industry Leaders with companies having potential to understand and add value to their operations through industry proven techniques and practices. The Chief Guest for the event was Mr. S B Singh, DDG – N.I.C, U.P.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Anand Sinha, Head – Operations, Sahara Next said, “In this digital age, a platform for SMEs to get an insight into the industry trend on leveraging cost effectively on mammoth wireless customer base and ever increasing internet reach, ushers an opportunity for the SMEs to reach out to world. It’s a proven model and small companies have proactively taken advantage of the opportunity to reach out to their prospective customer base, globally.”

The seminar included panel discussions and workshops on various aspects of Internet and Mobile Marketing. The first round of panel discussion was on ‘Online Marketing – Great Tool for SMEs’.
The moderator for the session was Mr. Rajesh Sule (National Sales Director – Tribal Fusion). The participants included Ms. Parul Mehta, (C.O.O. – VC Internet Media), Mr. Nitin Wali (Head- Business Development, VeriSign), Mr. Manoj Tinna (Associate Director, Rediff) and Mr. Ritesh Singh (Business Head – Starcom MediaVest). The second round of panel discussion on ‘Mobile Marketing… its way beyond SMEs’ involved Mr. Deepak Singh (Sr. Vice President – Digital Marketing, Value First), Mr. Amol Sachdev (Sr. Manager – Sales & Marketing, IMI Mobile) and Mr. Rajesh Fatnani (National Sales manager – Komli Mobile). The moderator for the session was Mr. Srinivas Mothey (Associate Vice President – Enterprise Business, One97). The participants for the third round of panel discussion on ‘Go Global, Get Digital’ included Mr. Shailendra Singh (C.M.O. – Longoor), Mr. Hitesh Trehan (Business Head – Networkplay) and Mr. Vijay Iyer, (GM – Social Media and Publisher, Komli) and Mr. Cory York (Co-Founder & C.E.O. – Gift cards Aggregator). The session moderator was Mr. Arun Tyagi (Sr. Manager- Marketing, India MART).

After the panel discussions, workshops were organised on ‘Social Media’, ‘Mobile Marketing’ and ‘Potential of Search Marketing’. The workshops were conducted by Mr. Pradeep Chopra (C.E.O. – Digital Vidya), Mr. Srinivas Mothey (Associate Vice President – Enterprise Business, One97) and Mr. Ashish Gupta (Account Director – Search Marketing) respectively.

About Sahara Next
Sahara Next is an Offshore Development & Information Technology Outsourcing Company providing services & solutions to varied Enterprises Worldwide. It is part of $ 50 Billion Group (Sahara India Pariwar) and is managing one of the Largest IT & Telecom Infrastructure in the country. Value Creation is the ability that Sahara Next uses to infuse new ideas and new ways of addressing modern age IT requisitions.

For Further Information, Please Contact:
Ghulam Zeeshan
Sr. Manager,
Corporate Communications, Sahara India Pariwar
M: +919335235621; Ph: 0522-2304230
E-Mail: ghulam.zeeshan@gmail.com

“

New Delhi, 25th November, 2011: The Indian Telecom Equipment Manufacturers Association (TEMA) today in a communication to the Honorable Prime Minister, Government of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh asked for a level playing field for the home grown telecom equipment manufactures.

According to the communication sent to the Prime Minister Office today, while appreciating the UPA Government’s resolve to support the Indian telecom equipment manufactures in terms of rightful share in the Indian telecom network business, the TEMA communication highlighted the lack of implementation strategy on part of the UPA Government.

“We are not asking anything out of context from the Hon’able Prime Minister or which is outside the National Telecom Policies of 1994 or 1999 or the recommendations made in the draft Policy 2011. We are seeking his & UPA Government’s honest support in reaching the mile stones mentioned in these policy papers & also the statements made by the Honorable Prime Minister at various times by adopting transparent and logical methodology which does not negate the Indian Telecom Story in any way,” said Ashok K. Aggarwal, Honorary Director General, Telecom Equipment Manufacturers Association.

In its communication to the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, besides creating a level playing field for the Indian Telecom Manufacturers, TEMA has suggested the adoption of the following six points which would create further impetus to the Indian telecom Story.

1. Identification of clear milestones and implementation plans for the telecom manufacturing sector;
2. Set up a ‘Nodal Expert Council’ for monitoring the implementation of NTP2011;
3. Preferential treatment to be mandated for ‘Indian Products’ ;
4. Introduction of R&D Cess on all Licensed Telecom Service Providers & incentives for Service Providers by granting reduced contribution on meeting targets of purchasing “Indian Products;
5. Compliance to national standards and certification of all telecom equipments by TEC before induction in the Indian telecom network;
6. Remodeling the tax structure so as to dispense with the financial disadvantage for home grown telecom equipment manufacturer.

According to Mr. Aggarwal, the adoption of these six points would pave the way in ensuring the growth of manufacturing sector and commensurate with the growth of the telecom service in India in the next decade.

About TEMA

Established in 1990, Telecom Equipment Manufacturers’ Association of India (TEMA) is recognized by the Government of India as the National Apex body to represent telecom Technology Providers, Global and Indian, Private and Government owned companies.

TEMA plays the critical role of advising the government and influencing decisions relating to Indian telecom industry. TEMA also enjoys the privilege of proposing names of technical experts from the industry to various telecom committees of the Government of India and major national industry associations for valuable contributions at every stage of the evolving telecom manufacturing sector in the country. TEMA has membership of more than 150 members.

For Further Information Contact:

Sanjeev Kakkar
Advisor, TEMA
Email : Sanjeev.tema@gmail.com

Rajesh Prothi
Absolute Factor
Email rajesh.prothi@absolutefactor.com
Mobile : +91 98102 09123

About Spice Digital Limited

Spice Digital Ltd. is one of India’s leading VAS (Value Added Services) companies. It is part of the Spice Global Group, offering innovative solutions for Telecom Operators, Enterprises and Government agencies using different mobile connectivity medium of Voice, IVR, SMS, USSD, WAP, 3G & Mobile Applications. Spice Digital has its operations offices across India in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Mohali and Dehradun. Spice Digital is today empowering VAS solutions in close to 25 mobile networks across globe and has got strong presence in SAARC, APAC and MEA markets.

For H1 FY12

·         Net sales increased by 65.08 % to Rs.165.39 cr.

·         PAT increased by 32.33 % to Rs.18.73 cr.

For Q2 FY12

·         Net sales increased by 33.62 % to Rs.84.79 cr.

·         PAT increased by 9.91 % to Rs.10.36 cr.

Mumbai, November 09, 2011: Kavveri Telecom, a leading wireless subsystem manufacturer, which provides world class hardware products and solutions for the telecom, defence and space industry today reported its stand alone half yearly profit & revenue numbers with a 65.08% rise in revenue and a 32.33% jump in the net profit for the half year ended September 30, 2011 when compared to corresponding period of previous year.

While the company saw its stand alone net profit touching Rs. 10.36 cr for the second quarter, which is a Rs. 0.93 cr rise over the corresponding period last year, its net sales increased by nearly 33.62% to Rs. 84.79 cr for the same quarter.

The stand alone revenue for the half year ended on September 30, 2011 also rose by 65.08% from Rs. 100.18 Cr to Rs. 165.39 Cr during the corresponding period of the previous year. Net Profit during the half year increased significantly by 32.33% from Rs. 14.15 Cr to Rs. 18.73 Cr during the corresponding period in the last fiscal.

Mr. Shivakumar Reddy, Managing Director, Kavveri Telecom Products Limited stated that, “We are extremely pleased with our performance. With the completion of the European acquisition, we certainly look forward for a promising growth in the current fiscal. We thank our shareholders for their continuous support and look forward to receive the same in future.”

About Kavveri Telecom Products Ltd.

Kavveri Telecom is a leading telecom products manufacturer, providing world class hardware products and solutions for the telecom, defence and space industry. Kavveri Telecom combines expertise with experience to deliver state-of-art products and solutions spanning the wide spectrum of wireless Telecommunications. The diverse range of products manufactured by Kavveri includes Antennas, RF (Radio Frequency) Components, Repeaters, TMA/TMB and many more.

Kavveri Telecom ranked No. 22 in “India’s Fastest Growing Companies” by Business World.

In past four years Kavveri Telecom has acquired four different RF products and Antennas manufacturing companies in North America and has made them run successfully, these are:

Tiltek Antennae Inc: Acquired in 2006 designs, develops and manufactures Antenna for GSM, 3G, LTE and Wireless technologies.

DCI Digital Communications: Acquired in 2007, it designs, develops and manufactures RF products for different wireless technologies.

Soptwave Wireless Ltd: Acquired in 2008, it designs, develops and manufactures Intelligent repeaters for in-building solution for GSM, 3G, LTE Technologies.

Trackcom Systems International: Acquired in 2009, it designs, develops RF products and antennas for defence and space applications.

For any further Information:
Ketan Sawant
M: 9892787586 / 8898887633
D: 022 40558961
E: ketan@conceptpr.com

Riyaaz Sheikh ( Xtech Infocom Pvt Ltd)

Probable reasons if the rule is right

1.Public aspect: People are fed up with continuous spamming

2.Operators aspect: As the new TRAI regulation of waiving off roaming charges it might be a possibility that telecom operators  wants to increase revenue by  supporting this rule. Operators with major subscriber base will be benefitted more.

3.Government aspect: Any news get widely spread by this medium in a shorter span of time which eventually supported Anna hazare Campaign being successful.Government is imposing a  masked tax terming it as interconnect charges to curb any such mass movements in the near future.

4.Indian Business aspect: Indian small and medium enterprise heavily rely on this medium to reach to the customers in cost effective way. If survey is done then this medium has majorly contributed to the business of small and medium enterprises as well as multinationals in a considerable manner.

Applying interconnect charges would  impact the sme segment  which would eventually  result in downturn of business  growth rate.

5.SMS aggregators aspect: SMS aggregators  operate on a rental basis with the telecom operators.

Promotional sms contribute to 70 percent of their revenue and hence the operators revenue for the relative infrastructure and resources on SMSC.

SOLUTION:

1TRAI Regulation  : Deploying an effective NDNC regulation wherein  each end account user should obtain a TRAI registration certificate for Sender ID  i.e masked name  which would result in personal client opt-in list . The reason behind the above statement has logical parameters as follows

REASON for the solution

·         Aggregators have  chosen an escape route by choosing international telecom operators gateway which facilitates sms delivery on DO NOT DISTURB numbers without any trace of the Indian telecom operator involvement. The rates for international routing is around 5 times higer than the prevalent  Indian operator rates which would eventually decrease as the Indian operators  contribute to the revenue of international operators by using the International gateway consistently due to increasing demand from the end customers.

Hence,the sms spam to the Indian mobile subscriber would be same as before the TRAI regulation implemented since September 27^th

]]> http://www.indiaprline.com/2011/10/28/views-on-new-trai-regulations-on-interconnect-charges-27th-ocotber-2011/feed/ 0 http://www.indiaprline.com/2011/10/17/vodafone-to-help-the-linde-group-drive-efficiencies-with-range-of-managed-mobile-services/ http://www.indiaprline.com/2011/10/17/vodafone-to-help-the-linde-group-drive-efficiencies-with-range-of-managed-mobile-services/#comments Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:03:13 +0000 admin http://www.indiaprline.com/?p=49594 VODAFONE TO HELP THE LINDE GROUP DRIVE EFFICIENCIES WITH RANGE OF MANAGED MOBILE SERVICES

Vodafone has been selected by The Linde Group, a world-leading industrial gases and engineering company, to provide mobile voice and data services in 27 countries across Europe, Asia Pacific and the Americas.

Under the four-year agreement, Vodafone Global Enterprise – the business within Vodafone which manages the communications needs of its largest multinational customers – will provide Linde with mobile services that will simplify the management of the Group’s international mobile communications. Vodafone Global Enterprise will also help Linde to standardise its mobile communications spend and deliver enhanced cost transparency.

Nick Jeffery, Vodafone Global Enterprise CEO, said: “Like other multinational companies, Linde wants to manage its global mobility needs as simply and effectively as possible while reducing costs. We have the scale, the tools and the expertise to deliver worry-free business communication services that will give Linde the competitive edge it needs.”

Christoph Clausen, Chief Procurement Officer at The Linde Group said: “After a thorough selection process Linde chose Vodafone as it provided us with the most comprehensive and cost-effective solution. As we follow our strategy to be a High Performance Organisation, mobility services are key to delivering sustainable process optimisation and efficiency gains. Vodafone offers us the ability to harmonise our mobility requirements whilst leveraging Vodafone’s global presence.”

Vodafone Global Enterprise will offer Linde a range of services including:

· Voice and data services;

· Spend Manager, which will provide an overview of Linde’s mobile spend and usage across multiple countries and multiple communications providers;

· A dedicated account team.

- ends -

About Vodafone

Vodafone is one of the world’s largest mobile communications companies by revenue with approximately 382 million customers in its controlled and jointly controlled markets as at 30 June 2011. Vodafone currently has equity interests in over 30 countries across five continents and more than 40 partner networks worldwide. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com

About Vodafone Global Enterprise

Vodafone Global Enterprise provides managed communications services to many of the world’s leading global companies. It supports communications wherever its customers are present: in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific and the United States. Vodafone was positioned in the “Leaders” quadrant of the Magic Quadrant for Pan-Western European Mobile Service Providers and the Magic Quadrant for Telecom Expense Management. For further information, please visit www.enterprise.vodafone.com

About The Linde Group

The Linde Group is a world-leading gases and engineering company with around 49,100 employees working in more than 100 countries worldwide. In the 2010 financial year, it achieved sales of EUR 12.868 bn. The strategy of The Linde Group is geared towards sustainable earnings-based growth and focuses on the expansion of its international business with forward-looking products and services. Linde acts responsibly towards its shareholders, business partners, employees, society and the environment – in every one of its business areas, regions and locations across the globe. Linde is committed to technologies and products that unite the goals of customer value and sustainable development.

For more information, see The Linde Group online at www.linde.com

For further information please contact:

Vodafone Group Media Relations

Tel: +44 (0) 1635 664 444

Email: groupmediarelations@vodafone.com

Lulu Bridges, Director

Tavistock Communications

131 Finsbury Pavement

London, EC2A 1NT

Tel: +44 20 7920 3150

Mob: +44 7831 170 364

Web: www.tavistock.co.uk

· Won the award for the 3rd time

Mumbai, October 03, 2011: Kavveri Telecom Products Ltd, a leading wireless subsystem manufacturer, which provides world class hardware products and solutions for the telecom, defence and space industry, has been awarded Deloitte’s Technology Fast 50 India 2011 for the 3rd time. Awarded by Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, The Technology Fast 50 India is a ranking of India’s 50 fastest-growing technology companies.

Kavveri Telecom’s MD Shivakumar Reddy will be receiving the award on October 21, at ITC Royal Gardenia, Bangalore. Interestingly, Deloitte Technology Fast 50 India nominations will also qualify for automatic nomination to Deloitte Technology Fast 500 Asia Pacific 2011.

Commenting on this great achievement, Mr. Shivakumar Reddy, Managing Director, Kavveri Telecom Products Limited said that, “There is no greater recognition than having one’s efforts acknowledged by one’s industry peers. We are elated to be one of the 50 fastest growing technology companies and with renewed motivation will continue to chart our growth path. Without the dedicated efforts of each individual in my team at Kavveri, this award would not have been possible.”

About Kavveri Telecom Products Ltd.

Kavveri Telecom is a leading telecom products manufacturer, providing world class hardware products and solutions for the telecom, defence and space industry. Kavveri Telecom combines expertise with experience to deliver state-of-art products and solutions spanning the wide spectrum of wireless Telecommunications. The diverse range of products manufactured by Kavveri includes Antennas, RF (Radio Frequency) Components, Repeaters, TMA/TMB and many more.

Kavveri Telecom ranked No. 22 in “India’s Fastest Growing Companies” by Business World.

In past four years Kavveri Telecom has acquired four different RF products and Antennas manufacturing companies in North America and has made them run successfully, these are:

Tiltek Antennae Inc: Acquired in 2006 designs, develops and manufactures Antenna for GSM, 3G, LTE and Wireless technologies.

DCI Digital Communications:Acquired in 2007, it designs, develops and manufactures RF products for different wireless technologies.

Soptwave Wireless Ltd: Acquired in 2008, it designs, develops and manufactures Intelligent repeaters for in-building solution for GSM, 3G, LTE Technologies.

Trackcom Systems Internationsl: Acquired in 2009, it designs, develops RF products and antennas for defence and space applications.

About Deloitte

“Deloitte” is the brand under which tens of thousands of dedicated professionals in independent firms throughout the world collaborate to provide audit, consulting, financial advisory, risk management, and tax services to selected clients.

These firms are members of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (DTTL), a UK private company limited by guarantee. Each member firm provides services in a particular geographic area and is subject to the laws and professional regulations of the particular country or countries in which it operates. DTTL does not itself provide services to clients. DTTL and each DTTL member firm are separate and distinct legal entities, which cannot obligate each other. DTTL and each DTTL member firm are liable only for their own acts or omissions and not those of each other. Each DTTL member firm is structured differently in accordance with national laws, regulations, customary practice, and other factors, and may secure the provision of professional services in its territory through subsidiaries, affiliates, and/or other entities.

For any further Information:
Ketan Sawant
M: 9892787586 / 8898887633
D: 022 40558961
E: ketan@conceptpr.com

VODAFONE and swisscom to EXTEND their Strategic PARTNERSHIP

Swisscom (Switzerland) AG and Vodafone today announced an extension of their strategic partnership agreement.

This partnership will enable both companies to fully support the communications needs of large businesses and multinational companies and continue to offer beneficial roaming arrangements to Vodafone and Swisscom customers.  The companies will also jointly source and deploy a full range of products and services targeted at the business and consumer markets.

Under the terms of the agreement, the companies will continue to jointly procure phones, network equipment, service platforms and other technology infrastructure.

Morten Lundal, Vodafone’s Chief Commercial Officer, said: “Switzerland is an important communications market and we are pleased to be extending our partnership with Swisscom, the market leader. The agreement enhances our ability to serve our international customers headquartered in Switzerland and to continue to offer them a full range of international products and services.”

Christian Petit, Head of Residential Customers Swisscom, said: “It is a partnership for the benefit of our customers. It brings together the leading international communications group and Swisscom’s leading position in the Swiss market so our customers will enjoy the best of both worlds. This smart, industry cooperation adds value and I am sure it will bring great benefits to both companies.”

With more than 42 members – including this partnership with Swisscom – Vodafone’s Partner Market programme has become the world’s leading mobile communications alliance.

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About Vodafone

Vodafone is one of the world’s largest mobile communications companies by revenue with approximately 382 million customers in its controlled and jointly controlled markets as at 30 June 2011. Vodafone currently has equity interests in over 30 countries across five continents and more than 40 partner networks worldwide.  For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com.

Lulu Bridges, Director

Tavistock Communications

131 Finsbury Pavement

London, EC2A 1NT

Tel: +44 20 7920 3150

Mob: +44 7831 170 364

Web: www.tavistock.co.uk

Shenzhen,China-based Donjin Communications to have its 1^st Country Head for SAARC & India

New Delhi 20^th September, 2011: Shenzhen,China-based Donjin Communication Tech today announced the promotion of Mr. Hariharan Iyer to the post of Country Head SAARC Region. Mr. Iyer will continue to look after Sales for the South Asian region and the African Sub-continent.

According to the management of the Company, besides further consolidating the SAARC & African markets, the new position will be responsible for developing the Indian market for its 3G enabled products in particular.

Mr. Iyer has over 15 years of IT and Telecom experience of which the last 10 years in the Telecom (CTI) domain. He started his career with HCL Comnet as an Associate consultant in Datacom division. Prior to Joining Donjin, Mr Iyer worked with Tecnomic Mkt and SES Technologies as General Manager ( Sales) in the Telecom division and managed various networking and Telecom product lines like Dialogic,Radisys, Advantec,  Allied Telesyn, NMS, Krone cabling products.

He holds a Bachelor degree in Computer Science from VJTI Engineering College – Mumbai. Mr. Iyer has been awarded the ‘Best Business recovery” award from Dialogic Corporation in the year 2002-2003 and  “Super Achiever Award” from Indira Group of Management studies.

About Donjin Communication Tecjnology Co. Ltd.

Donjin Communication Technology Co. Ltd., abbreviated as Donjin Tech, was founded in 1993. It is the leading multimedia information switch equipment provider, the whole communication solution provider, and the leader of global multimedia information switch technology.  

Head quarter of Donjin Tech is located in China’s core high-tech area-Futian District in Shenzhen. Donjin Tech is one of the global famous CTI hardware R&D enterprises. In China, the largest CTI market in Asia Pacific region, port number of Donjin product has already achieved top list in the industry, and enjoys “the CTI Lead Goat” and “CTI Expert” titles.

Since Donjin Tech was founded, it has released CTI products and series of multimedia switches fulfilling the requirements of next generation telecom network. Marketing and service network of Donjin Tech spreads nationwide and the overseas with thousands of industry chain partners and serves fast and premium products, solutions and services for clients. In China, Donjin Tech has set up offices in more than ten cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu and Guangzhou etc. In the overseas, Donjin Tech has built close relationship with partners in Europe, America Africa and South East Asia. The development of Donjin Tech lead nationality enterprise to break the overseas enterprise in domestic market and has obtained good market share. Donjin Tech will provide better localization service for clients with partners, and fully create infinite value growth for clients.

For both, Mobile Radio and Voice Chat services, Spice Digital has partnered Hang Meas, Cambodia’s fastest growing media production company for the Content development, in association with Metfone – Viettel, the leading telecom operator in Cambodia.

Commenting on this occasion, Mr. Saket Agarwal (Global CEO – Services) said “Cambodia has seen rapid progress in the economical and human resource areas in the past few years, and is moving ahead in an even faster pace in the telecom space. We took this opportunity to make an entry in this market at this point, and provide the customers with a delightful experience with our two most innovative services, the Mobile Radio and Voice Chat.”

Adding to this, Mr Eng Chhay Ngoun, Director, Hang Meas Group Company Limited, said “we have made the best choice by associating with Spice Digital Limited, who is known for their technically superior, innovative and entertaining services in the MVAS space. With Mobile Radio and Voice Chat services, we shall provide our customers altogether a new experience.”

Mr. Trinh Hai Hoan, spokesperson of Metfone – Viettel also mentioned, “It is a pleasure to associate with a global MVAS company like Spice Digital who has incessantly provided innovative and entertaining services to its customers, and has now given us the opportunity to experience their services with the launch of their two most successful services, the Mobile Radio and Voice Chat.”

About Spice Digital Limited

Spice Digital Ltd. is one of India’s leading VAS (Value Added Services) companies. It is part of the Spice Global Group, offering innovative solutions for Telecom Operators, Enterprises and Government agencies using different mobile connectivity medium of Voice, IVR, SMS, USSD, WAP, 3G & Mobile Applications. Spice Digital has its operations offices across India in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Ahmadabad, Mohali and Dehradun. Spice Digital is today empowering VAS solutions in close to 25 mobile networks across globe and has got strong presence in SAARC, APAC and MEA markets.

About Hang Meas Group Company Limited

Hang Meas Group Company Limited is the one of the fastest growing companies in terms of media productions such as TVC production, TVC post production, Music Video production, event management, FM Radio, feature films, mobile VAS and HDTV Station. With 16 years of exposure in the Local and International markets, the teams are professional and equipped with better insight, knowledge and understanding of the consumer needs. Hang Meas has a tie up with most of the telecom operators in Cambodia to provide content, such as CRBT service, the most popular MVAS in Cambodia.

Hang Meas is operating 2 Radio Stations, Hang Meas FM (104.5 mhz), the number one FM Radio in Phnom Penh and RHM FM (102.25mhz), which went on air in August this year. And near the future, Hang Meas will launch HD TV Station, Hang Meas HD TV, which would be able to broadcast to the whole country.

About Metfone – Viettel

Metfone, the Cambodian mobile operator owned by Vietnam’s Viettel, the biggest Telecom services provider in Cambodia. Their International Services include International Call, International Roaming and International SMS. Metfone provides a wide range of Value Add Services to its customers, which include Call Me Back, PUSHMAIL, Imuzik, Miss Call Alert, I-Share, Mobile TV 3G, Mclip 3G, Wap 3G, 5XX 6XX 7XX, Voicemail, Imuzik 3G, GPRS, Musik_box 1789, Poramean8080, Voice SMS, IQuiz :1788, and Partner services. Their products essentially cover Mobile, Methome and Device (Netbook)

DISCUSSIONS RE WIND HELLAS

30 August 2011 

Vodafone Group confirms that it has entered into discussions with Largo Limited to explore a potential business combination between Vodafone Greece and Wind Hellas.  Discussions are at an early stage and there is no certainty as to whether an agreement will be reached.

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For further information:

Vodafone Group

Investor Relations

Tel:  +44 (0) 7919 990 230

Media Relations

Tel:  +44 (0) 1635 664444

About Vodafone

Vodafone is one of the world’s largest mobile communications companies by revenue with approximately 382 million customers in its controlled and jointly controlled markets as at 30 June 2011. Vodafone currently has equity interests in over 29 countries across five continents and more than 40 partner networks worldwide.  For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com.

Spice Digital is today empowering VAS solutions in close to 25 mobile networks across globe and has got strong presence in SAARC, APAC and MEA markets. Keeping in line with its brand promise, to deliver outstanding value by combining deep market knowledge with unconventional thinking, Spice Digital will rapidly enhance itself as the future Mobile Internet Organisation. Spice Digital will take the market by storm with its array of innovative services backed by superior technology in an advanced form eventually in the coming few days.

Commenting on this launch, Mr. Lokesh Gupta, Head of International Business, Spice Digital Limited, said “we are delighted to announce the launch of Premium Services in Nepal. This has been an absolute hit with close to 50 K users in just 7 days of launch.  We are running VAS services in Nepal market (in association with Local partner TeleTalk) for more than a year now and few of our products like Voice Chat, Missed Call Alerts has been real block busters with penetration rates as high as 10% and ARPU close to 30 Indian Rupees. There has been great uptake of VAS services in Nepal market and customer is not just subscribing to services but enjoying as well.Globally, we are an established MVAS player in Indonesia to Ivory Coast (i2i) and will continue to offer to those customers a bouquet of the most innovative services. “

Adding to this, Mr Matuk Ananda Vaidya- Business Mobile Service Directorate- Nepal Telecom said “Premium SMS Services is a technically superior, innovative and entertaining service that we could have offered to our customers at this point.  We are more than delighted to partner Spice Digital and hope to continue this fruitful relationship in the coming many more years.”

To subscribe to Horoscope, a customer may simply call shortcode 9999 from their mobile phones and type HORO <sun sign first three letters> e.g. HORO ARI or RASHI MES and get the respective Lunar Horoscope update in English and Nepali. The SMS charges are NRs3 per SMS, and subscription separately handled for each Sun sign

To subscribe to JOKES, a customer may simply call shortcode 9999 from their mobile phones and type

SUB JOKES and get entertained through a wide range of jokes available in Nepali language. The SMS charges for this service are NRs3 per SMS.

To subscribe to NEWS, a customer may simply call shortcode 7000 from their mobile phones and type SUB NEWS and read the latest news on their handsets. . The SMS charges for this service are NRs3 per SMS.

For further information, please contact:

Prerna Jha (+91 97171 96523)

Gaurav Chhikara (+91 97171 05195)

Sulakshana Mehrotra (+91 98101 22728)

Mumbai, August 12^th, 2011:DB Realty Ltd, one of India’s leading real estate developer, announced its results for quarter ended 30^th June 2011. During this quarter, the company has registered a growth of 409 % in Net Profit, which increased to Rs 412 million from Rs 81 million in immediate sequential quarter. While the sequential quarter registered a growth as mentioned above, the comparison with the same quarter last year, shows a decline of 33% in Net Profit essentially due to change in the market conditions and increase in input costs.

Commenting on the results, Mr. N. Shridhar, Group Director (Business & Strategy), DB Realty Ltd said, “Rising interest rates and input costs coupled with delayed approvals have resulted in a slowdown in the sector. At DB Realty we see a slowdown in sales coupled with an increase in input costs in the last 6 months. However we have registered a stable quarter in terms of profitability by making progress in our key projects and parameters, also the sale of some noncore assets has contributed to the increase in profit for the quarter. We have also managed to reduce our debt burden in this quarter and the bank debt as at the end of the quarter stands at Rs 2,425 mn and with a debt equity ratio of 0.07”

He further added, “In order to diversify the asset portfolio and invest in strong yield assets, DB Realty will make an investment in DB Hospitality Pvt Ltd which has approximately 550 keys across 3 operating hotels in Mumbai, Goa and Ahmadabad and is in the process of developing close to 1900 keys across 8 hotels in 5 cities. Our delivery commitments remain on track and we hope to continue the positive momentum in the year ahead.”

Business Highlights Q1 FY12:

•                      594,000 square feet has been sold (including TDR).

•                      Rs 1,876 mn sales value has been achieved (including TDR).

•                      Rs 2,530 mn collection realized.

•                      Debt equity ratio reduced to 0.07 and debt stands at Rs 2,425 mn

About DB Realty Ltd

DB Realty Limited is a real estate industry leader that has built a strong reputation of excellence through its quality residential, commercial and gated community developments. The company’s expanding portfolio consists of 25 projects mostly focusing in and around Mumbai, under various stages of planning and construction. The company has a notable and consistent track record of growth, customer satisfaction, and innovation.  Incorporated in 2007, DB Realty has over 500 professionals from diverse functional backgrounds.  This highly experienced, international and local senior management team enables DB Realty to execute challenging and complex projects.

DB Realty is widely accredited with changing the definition of luxury apartments in Mumbai by developing aesthetically striking residential buildings with breathtaking views, which are tailor-made to suit the requirements of our clients. The residential segment involves a wide range of premium condominiums, and duplexes across North and South Mumbai. It partners with best-in-class contractors and master architects for development of its projects and has expert in-house project management and execution process teams to ensure quality and efficient, timely project execution. 

The DB Realty Group has developed more than 15.9 million square feet of real estate, which includes 15.25 million square feet of residential, 0.37 million square feet of commercial and retail and 0.27 million square feet of hospitality. With approximately 70 million square feet of developable area in both ongoing and forthcoming projects DB Realty is set to change the scenario of India’s real estate market.

For additional information please visit www.dbrealty.co.in

There are many questions on which CBI has failed to investigate or it has been asked not to investigate – (a) What was the reason for having a cut off date and even revision of this date? (b) Why only 25th September as the cut off date and why not, any other date? (c) Who applied on the revised cut off date?

Interestingly, CBI is keeping its mind and eye closed on these questions. It is Sistema Shyam and Indiabulls which applied on 25th September 2007. Of course, Indiabulls cannot be a company for which cut off date was revised back to 25th September because it was not a successful applicant. But, what about Sistema Shyam – was its role investigated by CBI in the 2g scam case? If yes, to what extent?

FIRSTLY, WHO IS SISTEMA

Sistema is the largest diversified public financial corporation in Russia and the CIS, which invests in and is a major shareholder of companies serving over 100 million customers in the sectors of telecommunications, high technology, oil and energy, radars and aerospace, banking, retail, mass-media, tourism and healthcare services. It reported revenues of US$ 7.8 billion for 1st quarter of 2011, and total assets of US$ 46 billion as at 31st March 2011.

SECONDLY, WHAT IS THE RELEVANCE OF 25TH SEPTEMBER 2007

Shyam Telelink applied for licenses in 21 circles on 25th September 2007 (date on which the first cut off date was announced and subsequently, this date was announced as revised cut off date). On the very next day, on 26th September 2007, Sistema announced that it has acquired a 10% stake in Shyam Telelink for a cash consideration of US$ 11.4 million. This deal might not have happened within 1 day of applying for telecom licenses. Why it was announced a day after applying for telecom licenses? Why did such a large company (Sistema) invest in a company (Shyam Telelink) which has got license in only 1 circle (Rajasthan)? If it was serious about Shyam Telelink, why had it not straight-away acquired 49% stake (which does not require any approval)?

Truth is, Sistema is closely connected to the Russian Government. It is doing business in oil and gas also with the Government of India. It is believed that during the Admiral Gorshkov submarine deal discussion, when Defence minister A. K. Antony visited Moscow from 17-19 October 2007, the Russian government asked the Indian Government (PMO) to request Telecom minister to accommodate Sistema and hence the 25th September 2007 was finalised as revised cut off date. Any prior cut off date would have sent Sistema applications for 21 licenses to non-consideration zone like the other 343 applications pending till date with DOT. This belief is confirmed from the fact that Sistema signed the share purchase agreement to increase its stake in Shyam Telelink from 10% to 51% in October 2007 – only after getting an assurance from the Indian government that the telecom licenses will be issued to Shyam Telelink. Otherwise, what was the reason for not signing this agreement in September 2007 when Sistema acquired 10% stake in Shyam Telelink

THIRDLY, WHY WAS SISTEMA SO IMPORTANT FOR THE INDIAN GOVERNMENT -

Ministry of External Affairs (Annual Report 2007-2008) – “The strategic partnership between India and Russia was further consolidated during the year (2007-2008) through exchange of high-level visits and signing of documents, particularly in the fields of defence, space, science and technology, economic cooperation, counter-narcotics and culture.”

To understand this influence of Russia over India more correctly, let’s go through some major events on and around the date when Sistema decided to enter into Indian telecom market and till the date of issuance of licenses to Sistema Shyam:

On 25-26 January 2007, Mr. Vladimir V Putin, Russia President visited India. Russian billionaire tycoon and chairman of Sistema – Vladimir Yevtushenkov – also accompanied him with an eye on Indian telecom sector. During this visit, a Protocol was signed with the Russian Government on holding “Year of Russia in India” in 2008 and “Year of India in Russia” in 2009.

Subsequently, many more visits and meetings were held between Russian and Indian government officials, like-

1. February 14, 2007 – Fifth Trilateral meeting of Foreign Ministers of India, China and Russian Federation.
2. 9 April 2007 – Foreign Office Consultations between the Foreign Secretary and the Russian First Deputy Foreign Minister, Andrei Denisov took place in Delhi.
3. 6-8 June 2007 – Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh briefly met President Putin at the Summit of G-8 and Outreach countries in Heiligendamm, Germany.
4. 9-10 June 2007 – Minister of Commerce and Industry, Kamal Nath visited St. Petersburg to participate in the St. Petersburg Economic Forum.
5. July 2007 – Joint Study Group set up in 2006 to find ways and means to increase bilateral trade and investment and examine feasibility of a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement finalized its Report during its fourth meeting in Moscow.
6. 1 August 2007 – Minister of External Affairs met Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of the ARF/ASEAN/EAS meeting in Manila.
7. 13-14 August 2007 – Special Envoy of Prime Minister, Shyam Saran visited Moscow.
8. 28-29 August 2007 – National Security Adviser, M.K. Narayanan visited Moscow.
9. August 2007 – Department of Science and Technology of India and the Russian Foundation of Basic Research, Moscow signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in basic sciences.
10. August-October 2007 – The five Joint Working Groups under the Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation: (i) Trade and Economy (ii) Energy (iii) Metallurgy and Mining (iv) Technology and (v) Tourism and Culture discussed cooperation in their respective fields in Moscow.
11. 7-10 October 2007 – President of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, Dr. Karan Singh visited Moscow to discuss cultural cooperation, particularly preparations for ‘Year of Russia in India’ in 2008 & ‘Year of India in Russia’ in 2009.
12. 11-13 October 2007 – Minister of External Affairs, Pranab Mukherjee visited Moscow to cochair the 13th session of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC).
13. 24 October 2007 – Minister of External Affairs had a bilateral meeting with the Foreign Minister of Russia, Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of the India-Russia-China Trilateral Foreign Ministers meeting held in Harbin, China.
14. October 2007 – The Joint Task Force on Mutual Financial Obligations met in Moscow and the Sub-Group on Banking met in Jaipur.
15. 28 October-1 November 2007 – Acting Secretary of the Security Council of Russia, Gen. Valentin Sobolev visited India.
16. November 11-12, 2007 – Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh visited Moscow and held delegation-level talks with the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin. He also met the Prime Minister of Russia, Viktor Zubkov and attended a business meeting with senior Indian and Russian trade and industry representatives. Many documents were signed during the visit, including Letters of Exchange (on utilization of Rupee debt funds for Russian investments in India).

Why suddenly, were there so many visits to Moscow and so many crucial meetings after January 2007 when Sistema desired to enter the Indian telecom market? What was the need of signing protocol on holding 2008 as “Year of Russia in India”? Had such a protocol has been signed with any other country?

In January 2008, Sistema guaranteed USD 520 million of total USD 630 million (82.5% of total amount) to be paid for obtaining the licences by Shyam Telelink despite having a shareholding of 10%. Subsequently, in the same month on 18th January 2008, Sistema increased its shareholding in Shyam Telelink from 10% to 51% (for which share purchase agreement was signed in October 2007). It shows that Sistema had been assured in October 2007 itself that Shyam Telelink will be issued licenses in 21 circles for which application was filed on 25th September 2007 – otherwise, why was the share purchase agreement signed in October 2007, and why not in September 2007 when it acquired 10% shareholding in Shyam Telelink.

In February 2008, Sistema said that it would increase its stake in Indian telecom operator Shyam Telelink from 51% to 74% in the next 1-2 years. Why had it not acquired 74% stake in the first instance when it had got FIPB approval for 51% stake? Sistema also spoke about investment of USD 4-7 billion to roll out a pan-Indian network. Why was such a large investment committed by Sistema when it was holding just 51% stake? Was a proportionate amount committed by the other shareholder holding 49% stake or was this 49% shareholder just acting as a nominee of Sistema? This presumption becomes a reality when on 6th June 2008, Sistema increased its stake in Shyam Telelink from 51% to 74%.

On February 12-13, 2008, Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, Viktor Zubkov, accompanied by a large business delegation, visited India. He participated in the Second India-Russia Forum on Trade and Investment and inaugurated the ‘Year of Russia’ in India in 2008 and took part in the opening of the Delhi representation of Russian largest financial corporation “Sistema”. He said that “Sistema” is a pioneer in high-tech and telecommunications field in India. Facing tough competition, this company, first of all, established a strong foothold in the Indian market and recently “managed” to obtain a license, which allows “Sistema” to carry out pan-Indian telecom operations.

Just a day before the visit of Victor Zubkov to India, an agreement on expanding peaceful nuclear cooperation with India was initiated. This shows the influence of Russia on the Indian government. Could the Indian Government have afforded to annoy its Russian counterpart by fixing any date prior to 25th September 2007 as the revised cut off date?

Even today also, Russian government is using its influence over the Indian government to ensure that Sistema Shyam is kept out of investigation zone and they have got assurance from the Indian government. It is apparent from the fact that prior to filing of first chargesheet by CBI, UAE government officials met with the Indian government and Norway Prime Minister wrote a letter to Indian Prime Minister, expressing their concern over ongoing investigations and to protect their investment in India. But, no such formal visit or communication was made by the Russian government. What it means is that either it is not concerned about its investment in India (which is difficult to believe) or it has got assurance from the Indian government that there will be no action against Sistema Shyam (which is most likely the case considering influence of the Russian government over Indian government).

This shows how the government of our country can control the investigation agencies and commit fraud with us – the citizens of this country.