Rs 29,000 Crore Revenue Loss to Karnataka Due to Ban of Iron-Ore Export from the State: FIMI Southern Region

 

Summary

* Appeals to Ministry of Mines, Karnataka to make submissions to Hon’ble Supreme Court for allowing permission of iron-ore export from the state

* Karnataka is the only state in India which is suffering because of these restrictions while the rest of India is exporting iron ore as per the EXIM policy of Government

The Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (FIMI), Southern Region has made an appeal to the Ministry of Mines, Karnataka to take appropriate facts and urgently submit necessary facts before the Hon’ble Supreme Court, in order to rectify the gross imbalance that has arisen due to the prohibition on exports and seek urgent rectification of the situation by permitting export of iron-ore from Karnataka.

The restrictions on trade of iron ore in Karnataka is suppressing the growth of the sector and have significant deleterious effects on the industry and also the public Exchequer. The restrictions on sale of iron ore in Karnataka were imposed by the Hon’ble Supreme Court keeping in mind the situation prevailing in 2011-12. At that time, mining operations had come to a complete halt in view of prohibitory orders made by the Apex Court. As per estimates, the gross loss over a 10-year period to the State of Karnataka is approximately INR 29,058.8 crores due to ban of iron ore exports. 

The rest of India is exporting iron ore as per the EXIM policy of Government of India thereby ensuring fair revenue to the State Exchequer including foreign exchange as well as overall growth of the nation by using the railways, port facilities etc. As per the data available, the total export in the year 2019 from other parts of India shows export of 10.34 MMT of fines and 1.16 MMT of lumps.

While, during the same period, the state of Karnataka, lagged when there is a surplus of 5.19 MMT fines arising due to additional production from auctioned C category leases and expired leases. Hence, an alternative market is urgently required since surplus iron ore may remain unsold even if the entire domestic demand is met from leases in Karnataka and without recourse to material from outside the State.

In Karnataka, approximately 70% of the sourcing is by single major steel player. These restrictions are also distorting the market as the buyer has the freedom of trade, i.e. right to purchase iron ore from either the e-auction or from other States or even to import from overseas. This has created a skewed market, disadvantageous to sellers as they can only sell to domestic end-users.

At present, the value of iron ore which is consumed captively, is derived from the IBM prices. This is affected by the monopsony arising from the e-auction system. The huge pressure on the lessees due to large scale imports (sometimes at higher prices than local ore) has forced lessees to resort to distress sale (since the iron ore remained unsold for many months and in some cases years). Consequently, IBM index price for Karnataka is low. From Jan 2018 to May 2019, iron ore prices have gone down in Karnataka by -18.7 %, although IBM prices for Odisha and Chhattisgarh have only marginally reduced by -2.7% and -7.7% respectively.

The reduced price of iron ore sold in e-auction, also has a direct impact on levies to be paid to State of Karnataka since the same are fixed, ad valorem and on the basis of the sale price. The State’s revenue is 30% of the sale price. Hence, the recovery of true value will substantially enhance the revenue of State Exchequer. Pertinently, revenue at the aforesaid rate will accrue to the State even on export. On the other hand, where ore is imported by consumers in Karnataka, the State earns only 2.5% import duty.

In 2018-19, approximately 6.67 MMT of iron ore was imported into the state, as a substitute for locally produced iron ore, thereby leaving unsold stock in mines and causing loss of revenue to the State of Karnataka. These imports have also affected sale of 8 MMT of old stocks.

TradeIndia's First Covid-19 Essential Expo 2020 Witness 18000 Attendees on Day 1

In an attempt to resuscitate the ailing small and medium industries of the country that have suffered from the business-numbing impact of the pandemic, TradeIndia, India’s largest B2B marketplace offering global buyers and sellers a reliable platform to identify trustworthy business partners, has initiated a first-of-its-kind virtual trade exposition that aims to usher new business opportunities and collaborations between the various brands and entities of the country.

The India’s leading online trade platform is leaving no stones unturned in helping the severely affected MSME sector reclaim lost footing and the state of the art virtual trade expo is verily a manifestation of this endearing endeavor. The exhibition will guide the industry towards transforming the unprecedented losses and chaos ensued by the pandemic into a favorable opportunity. By showcasing via the virtual medium, the various hidden growth prospects and lucrative openings that can be leveraged amidst the pandemic, TradeIndia is remarkably enough, covering the distance where none has ventured before.

The first day of the event itself proved instrumental in heralding a new ray of hope for the sector comprising of the various pandemic-affected SMEs and MSMEs. By extending unique solutions through combining technological promise and innovative brilliance, TradeIndia is seemingly aiding these small-ticket enterprises in maintaining business continuity in such chaotic times. The jubilant event witnessed a great number of business participants as it displayed the various essential products and the companies that manufacture them.By coupling the existing knowhow with the progressive tech-advancement and digitization, the event underlined the need for companies to constantly renovate and upgrade their current offerings. Besides focusing and brainstorming on the various innovative guidelines that companies can instill in their product development, the expo also revealed the various alternate channels of revenue for companies that are suitable for tapping into the current market dynamics.           

Sandip Chhettri, COO, TradeIndia said, “The trade expo hosted an expansive multitude of brands, their products through a virtual exhibition solution that allowed the exhibitors to demonstrate their products at a very low cost but with high scalability. The pioneering tradeshow also featured never-before-seen 3D stalls or immersive virtual spaces that enabled attendees to sift through the various product lineups, access business catalogues while interacting with exhibitors through chat or video conference”

The event organized by TradeIndia featured were surgical dressing and disposable, personal safety equipment, personal care products, common medicines and drugs, temperature instruments, medical, diagnostic & hospital supplies, home cleaning appliances, etc.

About TradeIndia: TradeIndia.com is an online Business to Business (B2B) portal for small businesses based in India and around the globe. The portal was started in 1996 by Bikky Khosla and is maintained and promoted under the flagship company, Infocom Network Ltd. The company is headquartered in New Delhi, India, and has branch offices in more than 42 cities across India.

All New CRETA Establishes Supremacy Records Over 55 000 Bookings

* All New CRETA dominates India’s SUV landscape - Becomes India’s Best-selling SUV for two consecutive months in May and June 2020

* Most enquired and searched car on Hyundai ‘Click to Buy’ with 30 % enquiries and 76% bookings 

* Diesel models constitute 60% of bookings, indicating strong customer sentiment for Hyundai’s advanced Diesel BS6 technology

Hyundai Motor India Ltd. (HMIL), country’s First Smart Mobility Solutions provider and the largest exporter since inception continues to receive overwhelming response for its recently launched All New CRETA – The Ultimate SUV that has now recorded more than 55 000 Bookings. 

Commenting on the achievement, Mr Tarun Garg, Director(Sales, Marketing & Service), Hyundai Motor India Ltd. said, “Ever since its launch in 2015, CRETA has been a benchmark in the industry, a household name that has represented distinction and success for over 4.85 lakh valued customers. With the launch of All New CRETA in March 2020, Hyundai has once again redefined SUV leadership in the segment and established its supremacy, recording over 55 000 Bookings and more than 20 000 Happy Customers in just 4 months. This achievement stands testament to All New CRETA’s superior looks, feature rich package and dominant performance that has won hearts across India, even during these trying times.”

All New CRETA established its leadership in the SUV segment by attaining highest sales in the month of May and June 2020. The contribution of Diesel in the All New CRETA bookings continues to increase and is now 60% of the total bookings received, indicating a strong demand for Hyundai’s advanced and globally proven Diesel BS6 Technology. The All New CRETA is also the most researched model on India’s First and Most Comprehensive end-to-end Car Buying Platform ‘Click to Buy’ with over 30% customers enquiring about All New CRETA.

A bestseller in its segment, All New CRETA has consistently been the most admired and preferred SUV in India, with customers opting for its ultimate features such as

-          Voice Enabled Smart Panoramic Sunroof

-          Drive Mode Select

-          Traction Control Modes

-          Bose Premium Sound System (8 Speakers),

-          Auto Healthy Air Purifier with Digital Display

-          Paddle Shifters

-           Ventilated Seats

Further, All New CRETA offers a thrilling drive, powered by Hyundai’s new 1.4 l Kappa Turbo GDi Petrol (BS6) engine with 7DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) gaining immense popularity among buyers. All New CRETA also offers customers complete peace of mind with WONDER Warranty Options - 3 Years/unlimited kms or 4 years/60 000 kms or 5 years/50 000 kms. 

Five Sanitization Products for Hospitality and Aviation Industry

In a bid to revive traveler reliance in the tourism and hospitality industry which is badly struck by coronavirus outbreak, cleaning standards have been greatly enhanced for every facet of the hotels, resorts, and flights.

The quality, hygiene, and safety are one of the most critical success factors in tourism. Following weeks of ceased operations that permitted time for extensive planning the hotel, tourism, and hospitality industry along with the aviation sector have elevated safety and sanitization protocols.

As we have already passed the first phase of Unlock-1, contactless procedures and safe removing measures are turning into the new typical basics because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Safety and sanitation protocols are being applied in maintenance and operational areas, with the use of upgraded disinfecting products and increased frequency.

Here are 5 sanitization products essential for safe tourism:

The UVD Robot

The UVD Robots stands for UV Disinfection Robots The UVD Robot is used as part of the regular cleaning cycle, and aims at preventing and reducing the spread of infectious diseases, viral, bacteria, and other types of harmful organic microorganisms in the environment by breaking down their DNA-structure. The robot is safe, reliable, and eliminates human error. Furthermore, it is user friendly and is designed to be operated by every-day cleaning staff. UVD Robots' inventive arrangement, which joins profound microbiological know-how, self-ruling robot innovation, and bright light to make the world's best UV-C based sanitization arrangement, has been demonstrated to kill pathogens like coronavirus and microscopic organisms.

Milagrow imap9

Milagrow Humantech has deployed imap9, a floor disinfecting robot that can navigate and sanitize the floors without any human intervention at various places, including hotels, airports, museums, hospitals, offices, etc. The robot moves around autonomously without falling, avoiding obstruction while planning its own path, guided by LIDAR and advanced SLAM technology. Milagrow’s patented Real Time Terrain Recognition Technology (RT2RT) scans at 3600, 6 times per second to make a floor map in real-time with an accuracy of upto 8mm over a 16m distance. This enables the iMap 9 to perform successfully in the first attempt, whereas other robots can take twice or thrice the time. Additionally, the robot can do zoning, virtual blocking of avoidable areas, and sequential cleaning of zones based on specific needs.

Zesta

Launched for the first time in India by Zestaindia.com, Wall Mounted Automatic Thermometer is exactly the product you need for safe tourism in hotels and airports. Gone are the times when you see a person standing with a handheld thermometer to check the temperatures. With Zesta’s Wall Mounted Automatic Thermometer, you can just install it at the entrances of hospitals, hotels, airports and other public areas and let everyone scan themselves with zero physical contact. This thermometer is easy to install anywhere and comes with color code alarm, fast and accurate detection. Priced at 10,999, it is available at all leading online platforms like Flipkart and Amazon.

Plasma Air Purifiers

Plasma air purifiers are equipped with very small filters that have the capability to catch small particles that other types of filters easily miss. This means that Plasma Air Purifier is able to reduce/eliminate the amount of not only bacteria and viruses but other harmful particles, such as dust, smoke, and pollen.

While respiratory droplets are considered the primary transmission route, experts strongly suspect some form of aerosol transmission may be occurring. Plasma Air’s HVAC-mounted ionizers use proactive air purification technologies to deactivate airborne viruses safely. The air purifiers are available on their official website Plasma Air.

PCE Instrument Thermal Scanner

PCE-TC 34 is a thermal imaging camera used for visual inspection and non-contact infrared (IR) temperature measurement. It is ideal for industrial use in electrical, mechanical, and building installations (such as in the auditing of machines, engines, or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems).

This can be used to monitor the temperatures of people entering a particular public place and record all the data.

This is a high-definition, high-resolution thermal imager that captures and saves 640 x 480 pixel IR resolution images to the included SD card memory at a refresh rate of 50.

Hyundai Unveils New TUCSON and Brings Alive ‘ALL New CRETA’, ‘Spirited New VERNA’ in the Digital Sphere

Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), country’s first smart mobility solutions provider and the largest exporter since inception, today showcased 3 Legendary and bestselling brands All New CRETA- The Ultimate SUV, Spirited New VERNA and the new TUCSON in the ‘The Next Dimension’ through the ‘VIRTUAL WORLD OF HYUNDAI’. In the Industry First ever full-scale human centric design showcase, Hyundai’s exclusive session bridged distances between the Dynamic Physical and Digital Worlds, while keeping the experience alive.

Speaking at the Industry First, most advanced virtual-reality experience, Mr. SS Kim, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India Limited said, “We are glad to introduce you to the Virtual World of Hyundai in an exceptional digital experience - ‘The Next Dimension’. With its technological prowess, Hyundai has created a New Paradigm bringing new experience alive. ‘The Next Dimension’ is an immersive expression of different cultures through Human Centric Design. Being an Innovation Centric organization, Hyundai has brought together the Virtual World of 3 Iconic brands - ALL New CRETA, Spirited New VERNA and the launch of the new TUCSON, in a Larger Than Life POD Lab Space creating a new benchmark in the Indian Automotive industry.”

“With over 6.5 million customers worldwide, TUCSON is one of the best-selling SUV’s across the world. The new TUCSON unveiled recently at the Auto Expo 2020 is a testimony of our commitment to bring the best of global products and technology for our customers in India and we are confident that this SUV will set a new benchmark in Industry.” He added.

Segment 1: Success of All New CRETA - The Ultimate SUV

‘The Next Dimension’ was divided into three segments. It began with a showcase of the Record Breaking Success of the All New CRETA - ‘The Ultimate SUV’ with over 45,000 bookings.

CRETA has been a bestseller in its segment since inception and has consistently been the most preferred SUV in India with over 4.85 Lakh happy CRETA customers.  Despite challenging times and intense competition, the newly launched All New CRETA - The “Ultimate SUV” has showcased Brand Supremacy becoming Number 1 selling SUV in its segment for last 2 consecutive months. This Power packed Ultimate SUV is an Ultimate all-rounder, from styling to comfort, Connectivity to performance, and in safety providing Ultimate customer care.

Segment 2:  The Spirited New VERNA - Live The Thrill

The Second phase of ‘The Next Dimension’ laid the spotlight on Hyundai’s leading product in the Sedan segment The Spirited New VERNA. Hyundai VERNA continues to be a bestselling product with 26 industry accolades and over 5.28 Lac happy customers in domestic and export markets.

VERNA is Hyundai’s Super Performer Brand and with its strong fan following, is amongst the most loved Sedans in India. The recently launched India’s First Fully Connected sedan – The Spirited New VERNA, is an All-rounder sedan with Human Technology Connect. It is comprised of Futuristic Design, Smart Connect, Ingenious Detailing and Superior Dynamics for new age aspirational customers. Styling, Brand Reputation, Dynamic Performance & advanced technology, Segment Best Features and Driving comfort offers a superior product experience to the customers.

The Spirited New VERNA - Key highlights:

Best in Segment  - BOLD AND PREMIUM STYLING

Dark Chrome Grille, Chrome Garnish on Front and Rear Bumper

Best in Segment – SPORTY TURBO VARIANT

Turbo Engine/7DCT, Twin Tip Mufler

First in Segment – CONNECTED CAR TECHNOLOGY

Hyundai Blue Link

Best in Segment – ADVANCED POWERTRAIN

Petrol and Diesel Option with MT & AT

First in Segment – HIGH-TECH ADVANCED FEATURES

Ventilated Seats, Wireless Charger, Digital Cluster

Best in Segment – WONDER WARRANTY

Standard Warranty up to 5 Years

Segment 3: The Launch of : The new TUCSON - ANNOUNCE YOUR ARRIVAL

In the last segment Hyundai launched its Flagship Premium SUV, the new TUCSON.  The new TUCSON redefines the Premium SUV experience with its Dynamic & Robust appeal, Luxurious interiors, Advanced Technology & Connectivity. With a legacy of 3 highly Trusted & successful Generations and over 6.5 million customers worldwide, TUCSON is one of the best-selling SUV’s across the world. Tucson’s strong success is apparent from the overwhelming response it has received from experts and from customers, winning many prestigious awards in India since its launch in 2016.

The new TUCSON is engineered to deliver a modern premium SUV experience. It is based on 5 key pillars: Premium & Bold Styling, Dominant Performance, Smart Technology & Comfort, Enhanced Connectivity, and Advanced Safety.

PREMIUM & BOLD STYLING

The Dynamic Styling of the All new Tucson sets it apart from other SUVs. The new TUCSON is an outstanding example of Hyundai’s Design excellence. The Signature Cascade Design chrome front Grille makes a Bold & confident statement. While the Penta Projector LED Headlamps along with LED DRL’s & LED Tail Lamps, enhances the Premiumness of the New Tucson. Furthermore, the R18 Diamond cut Alloy wheels & Twin chrome exhaust accentuates the Bold & Sporty appeal. The luxurious All Black Interiors and Leather stitched dashboard gives a rich premium feel to the cabin.

DOMINANT PERFORMANCE

The new TUCSON comes with powerful 2.0 Litre Diesel and Petrol engines. The fun to drive Diesel powertrain with New advanced 8 Speed AT offers the Best-in-segment Power (185ps) and Torque (40.8 kgm)., Also the Petrol Engine delivers an impressive 152 ps Power and 19.6 kgm Torque and is mated to a 6 Speed AT. To further maximise the driving pleasure, new TUCSON is also offered with the HTRAC 4WD system, Advanced Traction Cornering Control and Drive Modes.

SMART TECHNOLOGY & COMFORT

The New Tucson offers ultimate comfort & Convenience with many First-in-segment features such as Power Adjustable Front Seats (Passenger – 8 Way, Driver -10 way), Infinity Premium Sound System (8 Speakers), Hands Free Power Tailgate & Wireless Charger to name a few. Additionally, the wide open Panaromic Sunroof, The Dual-Zone FATC with Rear AC vents and Electronic Parking Brake add to the absolute comfort of driving the new Tucson.

ENHANCED CONNECTIVITY

The new TUCSON is the 1st vehicle in its segment to be offered with Advanced Connected Car Technology “Hyundai BlueLink”. It allows to remotely Lock /unlock & even start the Engine/AC using smartphone/ smart watch. Also the vehicle can be Tracked down & immobilized with just a touch of button. A new Floating Type 20.32 cm HD Touch Screen Infotainment with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Voice Recognition is also offered to further enhance the connectivity on the move.

ADVANCED SAFETY

All Hyundai cars are developed and tested as per Hyundai ‘Safe Drive Philosophy’. Beyond active safety technologies, the new TUCSON has Strong Body Structure with generous usage of Advanced High Strength Steel for a lighter yet highly rigid body shell. Furthermore, in addition to 6 airbags, the New Tucson is equipped with some of the Smart electronic safety features for enhanced braking performance & Directional stability, like the Intelligent  Traction Control with ESC &VSM , Hill-assist for Ascent & decent, newly introduced TPMS & Electronic parking brakes to name a few.

COMPLETE PEACE OF MIND

The new TUCSON comes with Hyundai Premium Assurance Program (HPAP) With Wonder Warranty (Up to 5 Year) for Complete Peace Of Mind of its customers. The Hyundai Premium Assurance Program (HPAP) offers 3 years / 30,000 km free maintenance, Blue Link/Map Subscription, Road Side Assistance and Premium Care Visit. Whereas Wonder Warranty further enhances hassle-free ownership experience with option of 3 Years/Unlimited kms or 4 Years /60,000 kms or 5 Years /50,000 kms warranty.( as per driving need of customer)

First-in-Segment Features:

Hyundai Blue Link (with Remote Vehicle Operations & Voice Recognition)

Infinity Premium Sound System (8 Speakers)

Height Adjustable Hands-Free Power Tailgate

8-way Power Adjustable Passenger Seat

Wireless Phone Charger

Twin Chrome Exhaust

 Welcome Function

Door Pocket Lighting

Chrome Outside Door handles

Best-in-Segment Features:

Diesel Engine (Power -185ps/ Torque-40.8kgm)

Wonder Warranty (Up to 5 Years Standard)

Annexure 1

All New CRETA- The Ultimate SUV

All New CRETA is the embodiment of Hyundai’s Global Design language – ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ that has captivated the minds and hearts of customers in India. All New CRETA is the result of Hyundai’s Ultimate Science of Human Engineering to create the Ultimate SUV for Indian customers. It is built on Strong Body Structure with 74% of AHSS and HSS.

All New CRETA offers a thrilling drive, powered by Hyundai’s new 1.4 l Kappa Turbo GDi (BS6) Petrol engine with 7DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) gaining immense popularity among buyers.

Hyundai has committed to bring in latest in world class technology and now has range of BS 6 compliant diesel engines. CRETA Diesel powered variants constitute 59% of bookings, indicating strong demand for Hyundai’s proven and advanced Diesel BS6 technology.

CRETA customers are opting for most admired features such as Advanced Blue Link with over 50 connected features & ‘Hello Blue Link’ – wake-up word for voice activated in-car control, Drive Mode Select, Traction Control Modes, Voice Enabled Smart Panoramic Sunroof, Bose Premium Sound System (8 Speakers), Auto Healthy Air Purifier with Digital Display and Paddle Shifters.

All New CRETA also offers customers complete peace of mind with WONDER Warranty Options - 3 Years/unlimited kms or 4 years/60 000 kms or 5 years/50 000 kms.

Annexure 2

The Spirited New VERNA – Live The Thrill

The Spirited New VERNA is based on following key pillars:

SPECTACULAR DESIGN

The Spirited New VERNA with Sensuously Sporty and Spectacular design has stunning Premium and Bold Exteriors.

Artistically crafted front projects an aggressive, bold yet premium look. The newly designed Full LED Headlamps adds to the design innovation, while the Dark Chrome in the Front Grille enhances the premium appeal. The Aerodynamic side profile together with New 16”Diamond Cut Alloys boost the sporty appeal while the Chrome window beltline, Striking LED Tail Lamps & newly designed bumper with Chrome garnish lend  an  exceptional appeal to the Spirited New VERNA.

Complementing the dynamic Exteriors, are the Premium & Stylish Interiors. The comfortable & spacious cabin of VERNA offers generous Legroom & Headroom for the occupants. The Glossy Black & Silver accents on the dashboard, Floating design infotainment system and dual tone Leatherette seats, enhances the upmarket feel of the cabin.

OUTSTANDING FEATURES

In line with segment buyers need & aspiration, The Spirited New VERNA now comes with 14 NEW FEATURES and 20 Segment unique offerings, strengthening VERNA’s image of a hi-tech feature-rich performance sedan.

The feature packed Spirited New VERNA offers unique intuitive in cabin experience. The ergonomically positioned 8” Floating Screen AVNT system with HD display and Smartphone connectivity offers ultimate in car experience while the Digital Cluster with unique Rev and Speed counters gives a Hi Tech cockpit feel.

The segment unique Ventilated front Seats and Wireless Phone Charging, add to the comfort and convenience, while the Electric Sunroof enhances the cabin experience. Moreover, features like Paddle Shifters, Front Parking Sensors and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, further accentuates the Hi-tech imagery of the Spirited New VERNA

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

As a step towards Future Mobility, Hyundai introduced its Advanced Telematics Solution, Hyundai BLUE LINK in the Venue last year. Now with the adoption of BLUE LINK Technology, The Spirited New VERNA has become the FIRST FULLY CONNECTED SEDAN IN THE SEGMENT.

Hyundai BLUE LINK technology enables customers to gain access to a number of advanced connected car features like Remote Engine Start, Remote Lock /Unlock and AC on,  Stolen Vehicle Tracking & Immobilisation, and Geo-fencing to name a Few . The Technological excellence is further accentuated with Interactive Voice controlled Wake up command of “Hello BLUE LINK” that activates features like Dial by No., Live Cricket Scores, weather information and Indian Holidays Info for enhanced customer experience. Moreover, the Smartwatch Integration for controlling Blue Link features take the connected car experience to Next level.

YOUTHFUL PERFORMANCE

Powerful Performance has always been a benchmark for VERNA, making it popular as a “Performance Sedan”. The new VERNA features all new Petrol and Diesel engine options with compliance to the BS6 norms. The 1.5 L Gamma 2 PL engine offers a balance performance and efficiency, and comes with the option of 6-Speed Manual Transmission and newly developed Intelligent Variable Transmission. The new 1.5L U2 CRDI Diesel Engine comes with the option of 6-Speed Manual Transmission and a 6-Speed Automatic Transmission, the only DSL AT option available in the segment.

VERNA has always been the leader in the diesel segment. The Diesel advantage is carry forward in the new VERNA as well with the Segment best 1.5 U2 Engine, which delivers 115 PS power and 25.5 kgm torque along with a mileage of 25 kmpl, making it a striking combination of Performance, Refinement & Economy.

Customers’ safety is always first priority at Hyundai and The Spirited New VERNA is no exception. The highly secure body structure of VERNA comes with extended application of as high as 73% “Advanced & high strength steel” making it high on rigidity. 

Hyundai Powers ELANTRA with New Diesel BS6 Engine in India

Features 

* New 1.5 l U2 CRDi Diesel BS6 Powertrain options available on SX & SX(O) Variants with prices start at Rs 1 870 000 (ex-showroom Delhi)

* Enhanced value proposition for Petrol BS6 Powertrain Options with Competitive Pricing, starting at Rs 1 760 000 (ex-showroom Delhi)

* Complete Peace of Mind with Hyundai Premium Assurance Program & Up to 5 Years of Wonder Warranty coverage

Hyundai Motor India Ltd. (HMI), country’s first Smart Mobility Solutions Provider and largest exporter since inception, today launched the highly awaited Advanced Premium Sedan - ELANTRA with new Diesel BS6 Powertrain options. The company’s Future Ready powertrains such as the robust and proven 1.5 l U2 CRDi Diesel BS6 with 6-Speed Automatic & Manual transmission options offered on ELANTRA, provides customers an exclusive combination of performance and efficiency.

Commenting on the introduction of New Diesel BS6 Powertrains on ELANTRA, Mr. SS Kim, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India Ltd., said, “Hyundai Elantra is a true global sedan and finest expression of authentic design by Hyundai Motor Studio. As a Smart Mobility Solutions Provider, Hyundai has been leading the way with cleaner & efficient technologies such as our line-up of BS6 powertrains. We are enhancing customer delight on ELANTRA with the addition of Fun to Drive & Powerful 1.5 l U2 CRDi Diesel BS6 Powertrains. Additionally, Hyundai is also providing an improved value proposition for existing Petrol BS6 Powertrain options on ELANTRA.”

Hyundai ELANTRA is an amalgamation of Opulence with Intelligent Driving dynamics that cater to the needs of progressive Indians who seek future technology, Space, Comfort, Safety and Ergonomics with a new approach. The development direction of Hyundai ELANTRA is defined by Premium Appeal, Superior Driving Experience, and Ingenious Innovation with Seamless Connectivity. Exciting Hyundai ELANTRA is a Technology Marvel offering All Round Excellence and Great Experience.

Hyundai ELANTRA conveys a Sportier, Grander and Irresistible design language. With a Strong Character - The Modern & Bold Exteriors of this Advanced Premium Sedan makes it a stunner on road. It has retained the elegance of Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design, offering reassuring body forms that deliver a new interpretation of Hyundai’s signature design language. The front of the vehicle showcases Dominant Hexagonal Front Grille while the side profile reflects a solid and full volume wheel arch and strong character line. The sophisticated rear design with unique emblem gives it a premium and luxurious appeal. 

Hyundai ELANTRA also offers customers First-in-Segment features such as Fully Connected Sedan with Hyundai BlueLink, Wireless Phone Charger, Dynamic LED Quad Projector Headlamps with LED DRLs, Front Ventilated Seats, and Chrome Door Handles with Pocket Light.

Customers can also opt for booking or complete online purchase & home delivery of any variant of Hyundai ELANTRA through the company’s end-to-end online automotive car buying platform ‘Click to Buy’. As a Lifetime Partner and beyond, Hyundai will provide complete peace of mind for ELANTRA owners with 3 years Hyundai Premium Assurance Package comprising 3 years/ 30,000 km Complementary Maintenance, 3 Years Road Side Assistance, 3 Years Hyundai BlueLink/ Map Subscription & 1 Subhaarambh (Home Visit). Additionally, Hyundai is also offering ELANTRA with WONDER Warranty Options - 3 Years/unlimited kms or 4 years/60 000kms or 5 years/50 000 kms.

PC's from ViewSonic now in India

US-based visual display product maker ViewSonic today unveiled its first all-in-one PC for the Indian market at a price tag of Rs 32,000.

The system 'VPC100' is the first of a new line of concept products that the company plans to launch in India. The PC allows users to watch HD movies, browse Internet, play games or view documents with crisp details. It is powered by Intel's 1.6GHz Atom processor, the company said.

ViewSonic Technologies India Country Manager Gautam Ghosh said ViewSonic's PC will be available in India through the company's authorised distributor Redington India at an MRP of Rs 31,999.

The domestic market is flooded with computers with basic features to advanced functions at a price range starting from Rs 8,000 onwards.

Agencies

Will India IT sector miss export target of $60 bn by FY10?

India's software sector is likely to miss the much-touted target of touching 60 billion dollar exports by FY10, due to
unprecedented slowdown in key markets like the US and Europe, IT industry body Nasscom said.

"... the aspiration of $60 billion by December 2010 is likely to be delayed by at least three to four quarters due to unprecedented slowdown in 2009 in key markets, particularly the US and Europe," a Nasscom-McKinsey report said.

The technology and business services industry grew substantially to $52 billion in 2008 including $12 billion in the domestic segment.

Now with the financial meltdown taking its toll, the software and services revenue outlook has been revised downwards.

Nasscom had earlier scaled down the growth rate for software exports to 16-17 per cent in FY09 as against 21-24 per cent announced earlier.

However, the report -- Perspective 2020 -- said the future of the IT industry remains secure in the medium to long term, even in the face of current macro-economic trends.

Agencies

Infosys to hire 20,000 engineering graduates at over 8% higher salary

India’s second-largest software company Infosys will be inducting almost 20,000 engineering graduates this year at over 8.3 % higher salary from what was offered last year, even as the company seeks to cope with a lower demand for software services in its top export markets such as the US and Europe.

At a time when other industry rivals such as TCS, Wipro and HCL Technologies are deferring the
joining dates for new hires, Infosys is holding on to its commitment and that too at better salary levels than last year.

“We have increased the pay package from Rs 3 lakh per annum to over Rs 3.25 lakh per annum for those joining in June this year,” Nandita Gurjar, senior vice-president and global human resources head, Infosys, told ET in an interview. “The idea is to get the best talent even during this slowdown, to provide better training and prepare them for the projects,” she added.

Experts such as Prashant Srivastava, managing partner of Gallup Consulting, said that top tech firms want to retain their edge as preferred employers in the industry. “Proactive companies are preparing and hiring high performers for the future, as they don’t want to run after talent once economy revives in few years,” he said.

The offer letters and dates of joining have been sent to 20,000 freshers (2008-09), and the process of joining will start from June this year. Last year, Infosys recruited almost 18,000 (2007-08) engineering graduates.

The company has also increased the training period for new recruits from the current four months to almost eight months. “It gives them better understanding of a project because the predictability of what kind of work you will get is much lower than what it was last year,” said Ms Gurjar. Infosys visits some 1,100 engineering colleges every year.

At a time when the US government is mulling stricter work permit regulations, Indian tech firms such as Infosys will need to deliver more projects from India. “We have been preparing from past three years to reduce our dependency on H1B visa, which is hiring more and more locals in all the countries, where we work,” said Ms Gurjar.

Agencies