CHENNAI FREE CLASSIFIEDS

2010-07-29T21:42:00.001-07:00

..Chennai Perumbakkam benifiting.Financial City..JOINT VENTURE..CHENNAI REAL ESTATE Year 2010-11 TREND.Five Ways to Speak Like Obamaby Sims Wyeth..Banks get tougher on Home Loans..A ready reckoner on cost of building.. Swine Flu Fact File ..Development… focus shifting to south Chennai.. VAT in Realty..Land Purchase Loan in India.. Regulation Bill For Builders.. Boom Continues in REAL ESTATE ..
.. Points to consider before buying a flat.. Exemption on house property.... Issues to focus on before buying a plot..

HOW TO POST A FREE ADVERTISEMENT? .Guide Line Value. . View all breeds of Kennels/Dogs ... Know Chennai..

-General ..Chennai Discotheques ..Chennai Water Sports ..Chennai Cinema Halls
- History .. Chennai Shopping Malls ..Chennai Entertainment ..Chennai Excursions ..Pulicat
- Dos & Don'ts ..Amusement Parks ..Crocodile Bank ..Mahabalipuram ..Muttukadu
- Important Facts ..Thanjavur - Must Know- Weather/Climate - Things To Do - Embassies- Tourist Offices - Airports - Bus Stations - Central Railway Station - Egmore Railway Station ...Indian Railways Airlines Contact Dtls.. STD Codes ..Call Taxi ..Chennai’s music schools Good Schools in Chennai ...KNOW CHENNAI BY PLACES
West Chennai - Ambattur - Anna Nagar - Ayanavaram - Kilpauk - Porur - Vadapalani
North Chennai- Ennore - Perambur - Pozhal - Purasavakkam - Tiruvottiyur - Tondiarpet

South Chennai - Adyar - KK Nagar - Kotturpuram - Meenambakkam - Mylapore - Saidapet - Tambaram - Teynampet - Thyagaraya Nagar - Tiruvanmiyur - Velachery
Central Chennai - Egmore - George Town - Nungambakkam - Royapettah - Triplicane
Around Chennai - Kanchipuram - Tiruvallur .. Real Estate ..Rental ..For Sale ..Automobile ..Travel ..Matrimonials ..Services ..Jobs.. Business ..SALE
Others ..Chennai Monuments ..Senate House..Elliot's Beach ..Thousand Lights Mosque.. Freemasons Hall ..Fort St. George ..Kamaraj Memorial House..Chennai Beaches ..MGR Memorial..Marina Beach ..Covelong Beach ..War Memorials ..Government Museum..Valluvar Kottam...Eat outs..Chennai Cakes,..Ice Creams,Restuarants,..Fast FoodRestaurantsBy Speciality By LocationChinese ContinentalFast Food ItalianMughlai Multi Cuisine Sea Food South IndianFood..Chennai Bar and Pub Do Not Drink&Drive... Investment in Gulf Real Estate Diagnostics Centers .. 24hr Chemists .. Beauty Parlours .. Doctors .. Hospitals .. Health Clubs .. Blood Banks .. Stadiums-General ..Chennai Discotheques ..Chennai Water Sports ..Chennai Cinema Halls- History .. Chennai Shopping Malls ..Chennai Entertainment ..Chennai Excursions ..Pulicat- Dos & Don'ts ..Amusement Parks ..Crocodile Bank ..Mahabalipuram ..Muttukadu- Important Facts ..Thanjavur- Must Know- Weather/Climate - Things To Do - Embassies- Tourist Offices - Airports- Bus Stations - Central Railway Station - Egmore Railway Station ...Chennai Bar and Pub Do Not Drink&Drive..Chennai Bus Route ..Chennai Carpool..Reduce traffic jam.TIPS TO CHENNAI VISITORS

Large Dog Breed Bull Mastiff .. English Mastiff ..French Mastiff.. Neopolitan Mastiff ..Great Dane.. St.BernardMedium Dog BreedAustralian Sheperd ..Beauceron..Belgium Shepherd.. Boxer..Chow Chow..Dalmatian..Dobermann.. German Shepherd..Golden Retriever..Grey Hound..Irish Setter..Labrador Retriever.. New foundland..Pointer.. Rajyapalam..Rottweiler.. Rough Coolie..Siberian Husky..SMALL DOG BREED Basset Hound..Beagle.. Bichon Fries..Bull Dog – English ..FrenchBull Terrier.. Chihuahua..Cocker Spaniel..Dachshund..Jack RusselTerrier..Lhasa Apso..Maltese.. Miniature Pinscher.. Pekingese..Pit Bullterrier..Pomeranian..Poodle..Pug..Samoyed..Scottish Terrier..Shih-Tzu..Tibetan Spaniel..Yorkshire Terrier..BREEDING YOUR DOG

Chennai traffic Map....Chennai Bus Route ..Chennai Carpool..Reduce traffic jam..List of Professional College in Chennai/Tamilnadu...

dfgj342cwb

CHENNAI: PALLIKARANAI RESIDENTIAL LAND SALE

2010-07-29T21:26:00.000-07:00

CHENNAI PALLIKARANAI RESIDENTIAL LAND SALE

Pallikaranai is one of the hot hubs in Chennai in terms of land value next to Velachery. Declared inclusion in Chennai Corporation Limits.

Item 1:This is a residential patta plot in Pallikaranai. Located 2 kms from Velachery Tambaram Rd. The plot is located in a residential location surrounded by houses. Clear title. Price:20Lakhs/ 1200sq. ft.

Item 2:Govt DTCP approved residential plot; measuring 2400 sq. ft. One km from Velachery Tambaram Rd. This plot is eligible for Bank Loan. Price 49 L/ ground.

Brokers stay refrained.Persons with genuine intent to buy may email to: ssmarthal@gmail.com with your contact number& name.

MAKE HAY WHILE THE SUN SHINES!

DTCP approved plot sale.Location Close to Estancia, Chennai’s first integrated township opposite, SRM college Potheri Rly Stn Opp 3km from GST Rd & Rly stn.
Affordable Price:Rs.650/sq.ft.Valuable Asset your money can buy for peak returns.
It lies near SRM Engineering/Medical College on GST road.The National High way connects the city to all parts of the country. With the SIPCOT industrial Estate,Star City housing layout,MAHINDRA World City and FORD Motor Company in the close by Maraimalai Nagar area;it is always buzzing with activity all along .There is no cause of worry over transportation problems as there are frequent Govt.Public as well as moffussil bus services and suburban electric trains linking the City directly. The access to plots from GST National Highway and Suburban Railway Stations namely Potherry and Kattangulattur is distanced 2 Km diagonally.The plots are 20 min drive away from Chennai City. The added advantage of the plot owners would be the proposed zone comes under 2nd Master Plan of Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority. Hence benefit of transitional advantage of low price per unit area &pertinent quick developments/appreciation.

L&T Urban Infrastructure Ltd and Arun Excello Infrastructure Pvt Ltd have developed Estancia, a 78 acre Chennai’s first integrated township, in Potheri on the GST road in the south of Chennai.Built at a cost of Rs.1,500 crore, the township comprising residential and commercial space, a hotel, IT Park, serviced apartments, retail space and a school. L&T will hold 51% of the SPVs developing the commercial space, while Arun Excello would hold 67% in the SPV developing the residential space.
Highlights:
Eligible for Bank Loan,Adheres to Govt. body (DTCP) norms and authentication.Close to 2 Suburban Rly.Stnsnamely Potherry and Kattangulattur is distanced 2 Km diagonally .Behind Star High Tech City layout.Close to National Highway 45.Sweet drinking water.Children play ground.Surrounded by SRM university,Ecstancia Integrated Township ,Maraimalai Ngr Township & Mahendra World City.

FOR SITE VISIT Email:proposalsmsmd@gmail.com

BACK TO CLASSIFIEDS POST FROM A CATEGORY

Chennai real estate in their growing trend..

2010-03-30T08:02:00.000-07:00

The real estate sector is booming in Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu. Both forms of properties, residential and commercial, are again in high demand in the city after a slight short-lived slump arising out of the recent global economic meltdown. It is now not too difficult to find a home that should suit your budget and other essential requirements. This has been possible as the city limits have expanded to suburban areas, making the space problem less acute than before. The rising number of condominiums has also eased the real estate problem in Chennai to a large extent.

For acquiring a property in the Tamil Nadu capital, residential or commercial, you can get in touch with a real estate broker, either offline or online. There are a number of web sites to help you out with necessary information. Real estate prices in Chennai vary depending on the locality of the site and other relevant factors.

You will find that the prices of all forms of property are on the higher side in areas such as Old Mahabalipuram, Annanagar, Medavakkam and such upmarket localities. The rates are affordable for the middle class buyers in many other areas.

Easy availability of loans and the emergence of a new breed of young professionals drawing huge salaries from various types of sunshine industries, including the information technology sector, have given fresh impetus to the real estate market in Chennai. As more and more companies of international repute are setting up their establishments here, there is a noticeable rise in the demand for space. This has led to a spurt in the construction of apartments, bungalows and penthouses etc. to be lapped up by customers through easy monthly installments.

Compared to residential properties, the prices of commercial properties are relatively higher in Chennai. It will cost you more even if you wish to rent a commercial property here. In recent times, the Tamil Nadu capital has been witness to a remarkable growth of swanky apartment buildings and modern homes accompanied by a burgeoning commercial sector. In Chennai, the key players in the real estate sector are usually shopping malls, big chains, restaurants and other commercial ventures. They have changed the face of the once colonial city almost beyond recognition.

With the help of experienced real estate brokers or through your own research using the real estate web sites, it is no longer difficult to zero on a real estate property in Chennai that would suit all your requirements and come at an affordable price.
The Indian property is a growing region and is an improvement to the is an impending marketplace. Being the fourth major municipal city of India, Chennai residences district offices of a lot of foremost corporate dwellings. It places in the middle of the trade capitals of the nation.

Chennaiâ€™s real estate drifts have witnessed steady increases through the organizations of a multitude of IT/I.T.E.S and BPO firms, which have created a superfluity of facility, chances and enlargement visions for the residents. This has brought about a noteworthy augment in the property order. By reason of the varying standard of livings of the citizens as an effect of abrupt expansions introduced by the increasing urbanization, a substantial grow in the real estate graphs has been evidenced. The property division provides to the terrain necessities for a gigantic heap of populace.

Realty in Chennai and territory rates is reasonably cheaper than the trend pursued in other metropolitan cities caused by the accessibility of superior and apt territories of unoperated territory. Having a cosmic shoreline, the Chennai city locates at a beneficial pose as measured up to the other metro cities of India By way of a profitable investment scale, sophisticated infrastructure, academic talented personnel, sound English language abilities ornamental the wide-ranging increasing surroundings, Chennai is quickly budding as impending objectives for investors and purchasers transversely the planet.

Read more at http://www.articlealley.com/article_1642680_33.html?ktrack=kcplink

The city is also going on to fetching a major manufacturing center for electrical and electronic industries over and above for auto sections.

Chennai property presents a surprising inflow of property builders and developers attributable to the growing commercial picture on top of reasonable cost of breathing.

Vaneet Gupta is a Professional India Property consultant to provide the service to Mostly NRI, to invest in India's booming real estate Sector since last 10 years, He is now the Managing Director of an leading property Management company .

More areas to come under Chennai Corporation

CHENNAI: The area under the Chennai Corporation limits is set to expand by over two times, with the State government issuing an order for merger of several neighbouring local bodies with it. It would be 426 sq km after the merger as against 174 sq km now.

Seven municipalities, three town panchayats and 13 panchayat unions in Tiruvallur district and two municipalities, five town panchayats and 12 panchayat unions in Kancheepuram district would merge with the Corporation, according to the government order. The G.O. said that the elected representatives of the local bodies would continue in their posts until 2011 when the next elections would be held. The decision on formation of two new corporations — Chennai-Avadi and Chennai-Tambaram — would be taken later, the government order said.

As regards Chennai Corporation, the formation of new wards in the merged entities would be based on the population. The 155 wards currently in the Chennai Corporation would also be redrawn on this basis.

The Chennai Corporation Commissioner has been given the power to delineate the wards, zones and reclassify existing wards. If need be, he can designate an Officer on Special Duty. A report pertaining to the delineation and reclassification must be submitted to the government within six months.

The municipalities that would be part of the expanded Chennai Corporation are Kathivakkam, Tiruvottiyur, Manali, Madhavaram, Ambattur, Maduravoyal, Valasaravakkam, Alandur and Ullagaram-Puzhudhivakkam.

The town panchayats are Chinna Sekkadu, Puzhal, Porur, Nandambakkam, Meenambakkam, Perungudi, Pallikaranai and Sholinganallur.

The panchayat unions identified are Edayanchavady, Sadayankuppam, Kattapakkam, Theeyampakkam, Mathur, Vada Perumbakkam, Surapet, Kathirvedu, Puthagaram, Nolambur, Karambakkam, Nerkundram, Ramapuram, Mugaliwakkam, Manapakkam, Kottivakkam, Palavakkam, Neelankarai, Injambakkam, Karapakkam, Okkiam Thoraipakkam, Madipakkam, Jaladampet, Semmanchery and Uthandi.

The GO said that the expansion of the Corporation limits was necessitated as the neighbouring local bodies were unable to develop infrastructure in tune with the growth of population.

News Extract by Anu

BACK TO CLASSIFIEDS POST FROM A CATEGORY

Read more at http://www.articlealley.com/article_1642680_33.html?ktrack=kcplin

2010-03-18T22:08:00.001-07:00

....Five Ways to Speak Like Obama
by Sims Wyeth..Banks get tougher on Home Loans..A ready reckoner on cost of building.. Swine Flu Fact File ..Development… focus shifting to south Chennai.. VAT in Realty..Land Purchase Loan in India.. Regulation Bill For Builders.. Boom Continues in REAL ESTATE.. Points to consider before buying a flat.. Exemption on house property.... Issues to focus on before buying a plot..

HOW TO POST A FREE ADVERTISEMENT? SALE-20 Acres Land in UthiramerurTown, Chennai South Zone,1Hr Drive FromChennai.Call 9841517994.Guide Line Value..Do you want to buy Govt.Approved Residential PLOTS @Rs.650/sq.ft in South Chennai Located next to GUDUVANCHERY Call 9841517994 .. View all breeds of Kennels/Dogs ... Know Chennai..

South Chennai - Adyar - KK Nagar - Kotturpuram - Meenambakkam - Mylapore - Saidapet - Tambaram - Teynampet - Thyagaraya Nagar - Tiruvanmiyur - Velachery
Central Chennai - Egmore - George Town - Nungambakkam - Royapettah - Triplicane
Around Chennai - Kanchipuram - Tiruvallur .. Real Estate ..Rental ..For Sale ..Automobile ..Travel ..Matrimonials ..Services ..Jobs.. Business ..SALE
Others ..Chennai Monuments ..Senate House..Elliot's Beach ..Thousand Lights Mosque
.. Freemasons Hall ..Fort St. George ..Kamaraj Memorial House..Chennai Beaches ..MGR Memorial..Marina Beach ..Covelong Beach ..War Memorials ..Government Museum..Valluvar Kottam...Eat outs..Chennai Cakes,..Ice Creams,Restuarants,..Fast FoodRestaurantsBy Speciality By LocationChinese ContinentalFast Food ItalianMughlai Multi Cuisine Sea Food South IndianFood..Chennai Bar and Pub Do Not Drink&Drive... Investment in Gulf Real Estate Diagnostics Centers .. 24hr Chemists .. Beauty Parlours .. Doctors .. Hospitals .. Health Clubs .. Blood Banks .. Stadiums-General ..Chennai Discotheques ..Chennai Water Sports ..Chennai Cinema Halls - History .. Chennai Shopping Malls ..Chennai Entertainment ..Chennai Excursions ..Pulicat- Dos & Don'ts ..Amusement Parks ..Crocodile Bank ..Mahabalipuram ..Muttukadu- Important Facts ..Thanjavur- Must Know- Weather/Climate - Things To Do - Embassies- Tourist Offices - Airports- Bus Stations - Central Railway Station - Egmore Railway Station ...Chennai Bar and Pub Do Not Drink&Drive..Chennai Bus Route ..Chennai Carpool..Reduce traffic jam.

TIPS TO CHENNAI VISITORS
Large Dog Breed Bull Mastiff .. English Mastiff ..French Mastiff.. Neopolitan Mastiff ..Great Dane.. St.BernardMedium Dog BreedAustralian Sheperd ..Beauceron..Belgium Shepherd.. Boxer..Chow Chow..Dalmatian..Dobermann.. German Shepherd..Golden Retriever..Grey Hound..Irish Setter..Labrador Retriever.. New foundland..Pointer.. Rajyapalam..Rottweiler.. Rough Coolie..Siberian Husky..SMALL DOG BREED Basset Hound..Beagle.. Bichon Fries..Bull Dog – English ..FrenchBull Terrier.. Chihuahua..Cocker Spaniel..Dachshund..Jack RusselTerrier..Lhasa Apso..Maltese.. Miniature Pinscher.. Pekingese..Pit Bullterrier..Pomeranian..Poodle..Pug..Samoyed..Scottish Terrier..Shih-Tzu..Tibetan Spaniel..Yorkshire Terrier..BREEDING YOUR DOG
Land in Uthiramerur.Town, Uthiramerur, Chennai South Zone, Kancheepuram Dist.20 Acres SALE

Chennai traffic Map....Chennai Bus Route ..Chennai Carpool..Reduce traffic jam..List of Professional College in Chennai/Tamilnadu....CHENNAI REALTORS....

dfgj342cwb

Five Ways to Speak Like Obama

2010-03-18T21:47:00.000-07:00

Five Ways to Speak Like Obama
by Sims Wyeth
Now that we’ve got your attention, you should realize, of course, that you don’t want to speak like Barack Obama. You want to speak like you. Nevertheless, as a student of the art of public speaking, you can — and should — observe Obama’s oratorical skills. The greats all learn from other greats, so don’t hesitate. Study Obama’s repertoire, take what you like, and use what you can to improve your own public speaking.
Obama is a master at grabbing and keeping his audience’s attention, which is the number one goal of any public speaker. How does he do it? Here are five key lessons from Obama’s rhetorical playbook.
1. Talk About the Audience’s Concerns
Notice that when Obama addressed a joint session of Congress for the first time, he told our story before he told his own. He talked about our sleepless nights, for example, and the college admission that might have to be turned down because of a lack of financing.
This was brilliant, and you can do it, too. Start your talk by broadly defining the situation that your listeners face. Then, once you’ve got them nodding their heads in agreement, move on to describe the problems or challenges that are on their minds. Start where the audience is, not where you are. Once you have their attention, you can lead your listeners wherever you want to take them.
2. Keep It Simple
Throughout the presidential campaign, Obama kept his main message — “change you can believe in” — simple and easy to remember. Sure, some pundits mocked its simplicity, but it served its purpose perfectly as the banner at the front of his parade. You, too, can keep it simple, even if you have mountains of research to report.
First, fine-tune your core message. Fierce debate within Obama’s campaign no doubt accompanied the birth of the slogan “change you can believe in,” and similar prolonged discussion may accompany the discovery of your own core message. But once the decision has been made, don’t let that debate show. Chisel away at your topic until you can reduce your presentation to a core message. Once you achieve this, all your complex ideas can march behind it.
This is as true for business presentations as it is for political campaigns. Granted, your content may be nuanced and detailed, but so were Obama’s policy positions. He used his simple slogan to make us believe he was the politician for change — something so many Americans longed for — and he appealed to us to have faith (to believe) in the change he was offering us. Obama won people through a simple slogan, which then allowed him to more easily serve up his ideas about meaty topics such as health care, terrorism, and the crumbling economy.
We make a serious error if we mistake a complete argument for a persuasive one. All audiences, no matter how sophisticated, have limited attention spans and a limited ability to retain detailed spoken information. Don’t fear that you’re leaving details out; you must be selective. After all, what good is a thorough and detailed argument if it is inaccessible?
3. Anticipate What Your Audience Is Thinking
Obama and his speechwriters are certainly aware of the great line by Goethe, “Every word that is uttered evokes the idea of its opposite.” What this means is that when you express one view, the odds are high that people will reflexively think about other, unmentioned aspects of the topic.
A presentation that does not deal with this “evoking of opposites” loses the audience’s attention because it fails to address the questions and concerns that come up in people’s minds. So anticipate it. Show your audience that you understand the contrary view better than they do, and explain why your proposal or argument is still superior.
Obama did this effectively in his speech on race, in which he attempted to distance himself from the inflammatory Rev. Jeremiah Wright. Obama pointed out, for example, that he won primaries in former Confederate states and that he had built a “powerful coalition of African Americans and white Americans.” But he also acknowledged what was undoubtedly on people’s minds when he said, “This is not to say that race has not been an issue in the campaign.” He went on to say that, yes, Reverend Wright’s sermons were controversial, but, no, that’s not why he must be rebuked. He said that, yes, the clips of Reverend Wright on YouTube make him look terrible, but, no, that’s not the full measure of the man.
His speech was powerful and widely praised. It was effective in part because Obama let everyone know that he had thought a lot about race, and in particular about both sides of the controversy surrounding his former pastor.
Attack your topics this way, too, and you will be in charge of the conversation. This approach will not only grab and hold the attention of your listeners, but it will also help you win people into your camp, which is what you need to do if, say, your goal is to persuade your board of directors of the wisdom of a seemingly risky partnership.
4. Learn to Pause
Obama has mastered the art of pausing. Just check out his presidential acceptance speech in Chicago to see this skill at work. He pauses to let us catch up with him. He pauses to let his words resonate. He pauses, in a sense, to let us rest. Pauses also give the impression of composure and thoughtfulness.
Here’s an exercise to help you learn to pause.
Mark up your paragraphs / in this manner / into the shortest possible phrases. / First, / whisper it, / breathing / at all the breath marks. / Then, / speak it / in the same way. / Do this / with a different paragraph / every day.
Here’s what the opening paragraph of Obama’s remarks would look like:
“If there is anyone out there / who still doubts / that America is a place / where all things are possible, / who still wonders / if the dream of our founders / is alive in our time, / who still questions / the power of our democracy, / tonight / is your answer.”
Where you pause is up to you; there are no hard and fast rules. But try it. Slowly inhale to the count of three at each breath mark. Speak as though you had plenty of time. The goal / of this exercise / is to teach your body / to slow down.
5. Master the Body Language of Leadership
Obama’s body language is relaxed and fluid. It does not display tension or fear. He’s calm and assertive — which is exactly what you need to be to get people to comply with your requests. For the ultimate in Obama smoothness, watch his entrance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show.
To achieve the body language that’s effective for you, focus on a single attribute — for example, calm — and practice implementing it in the basic motions of your day, from getting dressed in the morning, to leaving your home for work, to greeting your friends and colleagues. Research in the Scientific American suggests that focusing on one word is the most effective way to learn a new behavior. It will probably feel forced at first, but don’t worry. It will soon become natural, and eventually your body language will communicate the right mix of calm and assertiveness.
Finally, you’ll need to rehearse. Practice calmly walking up to the lectern or the front of the room. Arrange your papers calmly. Look out to the audience with a sense of command, with assertiveness. Let the silence hang for a moment, and only then deliver your opening remarks.
Calmness begets a sense of authority. Behave as if you are in control, and you will in fact gain control and command attention.
About the Author
Sims Wyeth is a trainer and consultant in speeches, presentations, and high stakes conversations.

Microfinance Self-Help Groups in India: Living Up to Their Promise. This post introduces the book.Food processing Units a report.

2009-04-10T02:07:00.000-07:00

In India, Self Help Groups or SHGs represent a unique approach to financial intermediation. The approach combines access to low-cost financial services with a process of self management and development for the women who join as members of an SHG. The SHGs are formed and supported usually by NGOs, or (increasingly) by Government agencies and sometimes directly by banks. SHGs are linked to banks first with a group deposit account, then for credit, which is disbursed to the group and in turn distributed to the members. There is a process of group formation and group leaders and members of trained on managing the savings and credit. Often too SHGs are linked to wider development or community programmes. SHGs are thus seen to confer many benefits, both economic and social, providing new and real opportunities for rural women that challenge the traditional barriers that women face. SHGs enable women to grow their savings and to access the credit which banks are increasingly willing (or directed) to lend. SHGs can also be community platforms from which women become active in village affairs, stand for local election or take action to address social or community issues (the abuse of women, alcohol, the dowry system, schools, local water supply).

SHG numbers have grown rapidly since 2000, across India first in the more developed south, now too in the north. The SHG ‘bank-linkage’ programme is the flagship microfinance programme of the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) which has actively supported the development of this programme since the early 1990s. For some time, NABARD’s website announced: Did you know: more than 400 women join the SHG movement in India every hour; an NGO joins our microfinance programme every day? But, as with much of microfinance everywhere, so with SHGs, alongside the growth numbers there are also some questions. Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) do usually publish information about their financial performance. Some MFIs are also beginning to report on their social performance. But in the case of SHGs, there is little information, even on financials. Even the growth and portfolio data reported by NABARD, at the time we started the study for this book, were cumulative rather than annual. And the data on loan repayments was unclear.

Our research then aimed to explore financial and social questions. On the financial side, how effective and transparent are the groups in managing their financial transactions? Are the groups sustainable? Are they equitable? On the social side, what does it take for SHGs to mobilise for social or community action? How effective are such actions? On both sides, financial and social, who is really benefiting? Do the poorest benefit, do they not join at all or if they do join, are they more likely to drop out?

Understand the Difference between Profit Making and Profiteering in Microfinance

Microfinance Focus, December 19, 2010 : This is in response to the article from Mr. Gurcharan Das in leading news papers on the status of micro finance.
First of all it must be understood that the events and institutions responsible for the ordinance of Andhra Pradesh and for viewing the micro finance institutions as villains originate from none other than Gurcharan Das's SKS micro finance institution. It is wrong to say that SKS microfinance is a non profit making NGO. It is already four years since SKS has converted itself into a NBFC U/S 24 of the company's act. Registered under this act SKS cannot be a non profit organisation, but a company which assures maximised profits to shareholders. That is the reason why SKS IPO was valued at Rs. 990/- on a face value of Rs. 10/-. It is therefore not surprising that these shares opened in the Bombay stock exchange at a flattering Rs. 1,400/-.

Have you ever wondered why SKS shares were marketed at Rs. 1,400/- when most shares of the scheduled commercial banks with the face value of Rs. 10/- are trading at rates between Rs. 100/- to Rs. 200/- years after their IPO's? What business does SKS do that the shareholders expect such a huge profit as to make them buy a share of Rs. 10/- at Rs. 1,400/-? As the writer himself admits, the company gives credit to the poor. Does business with poor earn so much of profit? Even if it does, can it be passed on to the shareholders? It is true that the companies should earn profit to make them sustainable. But should profiteering be the motto? Should this be advertised so vehemently? Should we not realise the difference between profit making and profiteering? When the facade of SKS was thus uncovered to show the profiteering face of SKS is it any wonder that common people all over the country turned their anger against micro finance institutions in general?

The truth is that funds are available in the Indian financial market for microfinance at 10 to 12%. The Govt. of India has declared lending to MFIs as priority sector. Experience has taught us that it will cost us 5% to manage these funds. Even after considering a provision of 2% to 3% there is no justification for charging interest rates in excess of 20% to the poor. As the volumes of business go up as in the case of SKS the cost apparently comes down drastically and the benefit ought to have been passed to the poor instead of the shareholders.

Inspite of calling themselves as pro poor most microfinance institutions in the country charge 24 to 48% on the loans given by them to the poor. Most loans have tenure of one year, creating pressure on the borrowers to repay at weekly intervals. The poor who begin with small loans drastically increase the size of the loans between Rs. 30,000/- to Rs. 50,000/- after three to four cycles. The MFI insists that such big loans also be repaid in 50 weeks. They also charge high rate of interest as already explained. Many loans have disguised costs like compulsory insurance, compulsory health insurance, surcharge etc. Poor people who borrow such loans by paying the disguised costs, naturally become depressed when pressurised for speedy repayment.

When one analyses the reasons for charging high rate of interest another black spot of the industry also gets exposed. The pay packages of senior executives and officers working in micro finance institutions appear to be much higher than their peers in the Indian scheduled commercial banking sector. The documents released by SKS during its IPO declared huge pay outs to their Executive Director amounting to crores of rupees. The Chairperson of SKS who was once called modern Gandhi also was drawing substantial pay package. Should servants of poor be enjoying such huge packages? It is becoming more and more apparent that many Indian MFIs look to foreign venture capitalists for equity and debt funds. The tax payers of the advanced countries who cannot even get 2 to 3% interest on their bank deposits in their own countries are investing Rs. hundreds of crores in micro finance business in this country. There are many agencies who act as intermediaries in this business. The poor of this country are made responsible to bring more profit to the venture capitalists, the shareholders, pay high wages to their own servants, also meet the expenses of the venture capitalists. So for whom are the poor people are working? Most poor are trapped in the vicious debt cycle, they are moving one loan to another just to service their depts. Most micro finance institutions in the name of poverty alleviation have become wolves in a sheep pack. They call themselves NGOs when talking to poor and declare themselves NBFCs when talking to investors. They are clearly dichotomous. The most surprising fact is that these wolves when faced with local finance companies who try to copy the wolves will immediately start yelling fraud, bogus and cry injustice!

The microfinance institutions develop a very close rapport with the poor, entice them with easy loans and pressurise them for recovery by blackmailing them on their trusted values. The poor naturally come under tremendous pressure which gets exploded when politicians who live in the name of the poor start a war of words against the MFIs. The law enacted in Andhra Pradesh is the sum result of all these factors.

The Andhra Pradesh the microfinance law is so harsh that the even emergency ordinance of 1975 is feeling shy of the AP enactment. This act will no doubt lead to license raj, corruption and untold miseries. This is also acting as stimulant to the politicians of various other states to try to become popular with the people by passing similar enactments.

Interestingly, there is another question. In our country where there is a bank branch on average for every 12,000 population meaning 3,000 families, why should micro finance institutions be functioning? The truth is that the failure of the banks is the victory for microfinance institutions. As revealed in the NSSO survey 2003 and as often quoted by the likes of Dr. Rangarajan more than 70% of the Indian farmers have not received credit from scheduled commercial banks. The financial inclusion programme of the Govt. of India has so far remained a facade.

Ground reality being such that, enactments of Andhra Pradesh will completely destroy the financial oasis of the wolves in the garb of MFI from providing even the trickle of funds that is now flowing to the poor people. Such acts will lead to more suicides without money than suicides having to pay them back.

We cannot compare our country to Tunisia, Colombia, Bangladesh. Our country has a lot of fund flow, it is possible to reach the funds to the poor without profiteering. The networks created by the micro finance institutions and self help group movement can achieve this. But the govt. must to pro actively respond as under

1. Check the profiteering attitude of the MFIs. Cap the interest rate to 7% to 8% above the cost of funds.
2. Instead of passing crazy ordinances, make effective use of the law of the land to deal with tragedies like suicides.
3. Give a further fillip to the SHG movement and the business correspondent programme by making necessary changes in the programme.
4. The governments and more specially the politicians should refrain from making false promises that they will give credit at subsidised rates to every one.
5. Even though we blame micro finance institutions as wolves we should realise that they also are playing a major role in nation building. Instead the mainstream institutions should effectively compete with the micro finance institutions. There are many instances where the public sector have successfully competed with the private sector to bring in equality.

Most importantly, a time has come for the micro finance institutions to introspect. Is this the goal the MFIs set out to achieve? Should business with poor lead to profiteering or healthy sustenance? If the intelligentsia involved in the sector donot appreciate the thin line between profit making and profiteering, they are sure to be cursed by the poor.

------
About the Author : Dr. L. H. Manjunath is the Executive Director of Shri Kshethra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project (R.) This MFI has recently awarded by The Micro Finance Institution of India award ,2010

Disclaimer : Views expressed in the article by the author are his own and do not necessarily represent those of Microfinance Focus. Microfinance Focus does not take any responsibility for correctness of the data presented by contributor.

FOOD PROCESSING IN INDIA
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
1. INDUSTRY OVERVIEW
India is the world’s second largest producer of food next to China, and has the potential of
being the biggest with the food and agricultural sector. The food processing industry is one
of the largest industries in India-it is ranked fifth in terms of production, consumption,
export and expected growth. The food industry is on a high as Indians continue to have a
feast. Fuelled by what can be termed as a perfect ingredient for any industry - large
disposable incomes - the food sector has been witnessing a marked change in consumption
patterns, especially in terms of food.
Increasing incomes are always accompanied by a change in the food basket. The
proportionate expenditure on cereals, pulses, edible oil, sugar, salt and spices declines as
households climb the expenditure classes in urban India while the opposite happens in the
case of milk and milk products, meat, egg and fish, fruits and beverages.
For instance, the proportionate expenditure on staples (cereals, grams, pulses) declined from
45 per cent to 44 per cent in rural India while the figure settled at 32 per cent of the total
expenditure on food in urban India.
A large part of this shift in consumption is driven by the processed food market, which
accounts for 32 per cent of the total food market. It accounts for US$ 29.4 billion, in a total
estimated market of US$ 91.66 billion.
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has estimated that the food processing sector
has the potential of attracting US$ 33 billion of investment in 10 years and generate
employment of 9 million person-days.
The Government has formulated and implemented several Plan Schemes to provide
financial assistance for setting up and modernizing food processing units, creation of
infrastructure, support for research and development and human resource development in
addition to other promotional measures to encourage the growth of the processed food
sector.
Food processing is a large sector that covers activities such as agriculture, horticulture,
plantation, animal husbandry and fisheries. It also includes other industries that use
agriculture inputs for manufacturing of edible products. The Ministry of Food Processing,
Government of India indicates the following segments within the Food Processing industry:
• Dairy, fruits & vegetable processing
• Grain processing
• Meat & poultry processing
• Fisheries
• Consumer foods including packaged foods, beverages and packaged drinking water.
Though the industry is large in size, it is still at a nascent stage in terms of development of
the country's total agriculture and food produce, only 2 per cent is processed.
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
The industry size has been estimated at US$ 70 billion by the Ministry of Food Processing,
Government of India. The food processing industry contributed 6.3 per cent to India’s GDP
in 2003 and had a share of 6 per cent in total industrial production. The industry employs 1.6
million workers directly. The industry is estimated to be growing at 9-12 per cent during the
period 2002 to 2007.
Value addition of food products is expected to increase from the current 8 per cent to 35 per
cent by the end of 2025. Fruit & vegetable processing, which is currently around 2 per cent
of total production will increase to 10 per cent by 2010 and to 25 per cent by 2025.
The highest share of processed food is in the dairy sector, where 37 per cent of the total
produce is processed, of this only 15 per cent is processed by the organized sector. The
food processing industry in the country is on track to ensure profitability in the coming
decades. The sector is expected to attract phenomenal investments of about Rs 1,400 billion
in the next decade.
Food processing levels in various sub sectors:
15
21
6
22
9
1.2 1.7 0.4
0.5 1
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
Fruits and
Vegetables
Dairy
Products
Meat Poultry Marine
Fisheries
Shrimps
Organized sector Unorganized sector
Source: Ministry of food processing India,, Annual Report 2004
Segmentation of different sectors in food processing industry:
Sectors Products
Diary Whole Milk Powder, Skimmed milk powder, Condensed milk,
Ice cream, Butter and Ghee, Cheese
Fruits & Vegetables
Beverages, Juices, Concentrates, Pulps, Slices, Frozen &
Dehydrated products, Potato Wafers/Chips, etc
Grains & Cereals
Flour, Bakeries, Starch Glucose, Cornflakes, Malted Foods,
Vermicelli, Beer and Malt extracts, Grain based Alcohol
Fisheries Frozen & Canned products mainly in fresh form
Meat & Poultry Frozen and packed - mainly in fresh form, Egg Powder
Consumer Foods Snack food, Namkeens, Biscuits, Ready to eat food, Alcoholic
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
and Non-alcoholic beverages
Source: Ministry of food processing India, Annual Report 2004
Primary food processing is a major industry with a highly fragmented structure that includes
hundreds of thousands of rice-mills and hullers, flour mills, pulse mills and oil-seed mills,
several thousands of bakeries, traditional food units and fruits, vegetable and spice
processing units in the unorganized sector. In comparison, the organized sector is relatively
small, with around 516 flour mills, 568 fish processing units, 5,293 fruit and vegetable
processing units, 171 meat processing units and numerous dairy processing units at state and
district levels. The share of the organized and unorganized sectors varies across different
segments of the industry.
Food processing units in organized sector
Flour mills 516
Fish processing units 568(+ 482 cold storage units)
Fruits and vegetables processing units 5,293
Meat processing units 171
Sweetened and aerated water units 656
Milk product units 266
Sugar mills 429
Solvent extract units 725
Rice mills 139,208
Modernized rice mills 35,088
Source: Ministry of food processing India, Annual Report 2004
1.1 Processed Foods Scenario with respect to Specific Sectors
The industry structure and ongoing transformation offers opportunities for organized
players to invest and grow. As the Indian market matures and consumers become more
quality and brand conscious, the organized sector is poised to grow and gain prominence.
ITEMS 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05
Quantity Value Quantity Value Quantity Value Quantity Value
Processed
fruits and
vegetables
385984.29 1100.57 423924.61 1206.93 429797.92 1125.81 589976.71 1462.72
Animal
Products
292652.2 1500.93 359726.28 1800.53 793467.42 2024.81 629550.2 2252.33
Other
processed
products
1031177.35 1780.07 988950.37 1720.11 1279619.06 2316.44 616755.91 2032.34
Grand total 1709813.84 4381.57 1772601.26 4727.57 2502884.4 5467.06 1836282.82 5747.39
Source: Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority, India
1.1.1 Dairy
In the dairy sector, most of the processing is done by the unorganized sector. Though the
share of organized sector is less than 15 per cent, it is expected to rise rapidly, especially in
the urban regions. Among the milk products manufactured by the organized sector, some of
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
the prominent ones are ghee, butter, cheese, ice creams, milk powders, malted milk food,
condensed milk and infant foods.
The market size and growth rates of some of the products in organized dairy and consumer
food segments are shown in the graph below.
Biscuits
Bread
Confectionary
Chocolates
Ice Creams
Fruits Cheese
Dairy
whitener
Branderd
Butter
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
0 100 200 300 400 500
Growth rates (%)
Market Size (US$ million)
Market Size-growth rates of different product segments
Amongst dairy products, the 50,000 ton branded butter market, valued at US$ 133 million is
estimated to be growing at 8-10 per cent per annum. The cheese market is estimated to be
US$ 110 million in value terms and an estimated 54,000 tonnes in volume terms, and has
been growing at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8-9 per cent during 1999-
2003. The growth in urban areas has been higher at about 15 per cent per annum. The ice
cream market in India is estimated to be about US$ 199 million per annum.
A few corporate players, including Multi National Corporations are now focusing on this
market. For example, Nestle and Britannia have forayed into emerging segments such as
Ultra Heated Treatment (UHT) and flavored milk. Ultra Heat Treated (UHT) milk is
becoming popular and the market is estimated at US$ 33.4 million (Rs1.5 billion).
1.1.2 Fruits and Vegetables
Fruit and vegetable processing in India is almost equally divided between the organized and
unorganized sectors, with the organized sector holding 48 per cent of the share. While
products like juices and pulp concentrate are largely manufactured by the organized sector,
the unorganized sector’s foothold is in the traditional areas of processed items like pickles,
sauces and squashes. By size, pickles form the strongest category.
The installed capacity of fruit and vegetable processing industry has increased from 1.11
million tonnes in 1993 to 2.33 million tonnes in 2004. Over the last few years, the industry
has seen a positive growth in ready-to-serve beverages, fruit juices and pulps, dehydrated and
frozen fruits and vegetable products, pickles, processed mushrooms and curried vegetables.
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
The government expects the processing in this sector to grow to 10 per cent in 2010 and 25
per cent of the total produce by 2025. Most of the units engaged in above are currently
export oriented. Domestic consumption of processed fruits & vegetable products is low,
indicating a potential for growth through increased penetration of the domestic market.
Export of Processed Fruits and Vegetables, 2004-05
Dried and
preserved
vegetables,
351034.3
Mango Pulp,
90988.6
Pickle and
Chutney,
67193.29
Other
processed fruits
and vegetables,
80760.5
1.1.3 Grains
India produces more than 200 million tonnes of different food grains every year. All major
grains – rice, wheat, maize, barley and millets like jowar (great millet), bajra (pearl millet) &
ragi (finger millet) are produced in the country. About 15 per cent of the annual production
of wheat is converted into wheat products. There are 10,000 pulse mills in the country with a
milling capacity of 14 million tonnes, milling about 75 per cent of annual pulse production.
The country is self sufficient in grain production and is the second largest rice producer in
the world with a 20 per cent global share. Primary milling of rice, wheat and pulses is the
most important activity in food grains processing. Total investment in the grain milling
sector up to December 2002 was around US$ 1.5 billion, of which US$ 253.5 million was
foreign investment. Branded rice is becoming popular in both the domestic as well as the
export market. Indian Basmati rice commands a premium in the international market. This
segment thus offers opportunities in marketing of branded grains, as well as grains
processing.
1.1.4 Meat and Poultry
India has a livestock population of 470 million, which includes 205 million cattle and 90
million buffaloes. Processing of meat products is licensed under Meat Food Products Order,
(MFPO), 1973. Total meat production in the country is currently estimated at 5 million
tonnes annually. Only about 1-2 per cent of the total meat is converted into value added
products. The rest is purchased raw and consumed at home. Poultry processing is also at a
nascent stage. The country produces about 450 million broilers and 33 billion eggs annually.
Growth rate of egg and broiler production is 16 per cent and 20 per cent respectively.
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
9092 9121
7987
8771
7000
7500
8000
8500
9000
9500
1999-00 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03
Value of Meat Products manufactured under MFPO,
1973
Value(US$ '000)
India has 3,600 slaughter houses, 9 modern abattoirs and 171 meat processing units licensed
under Meat Products Order. A few modern pork processing plants are also coming up in the
country. There is a large potential for setting up modern slaughter facilities and development
of cold chains in the meat and poultry processing sector. Buffalo meat is surplus in the
country and also has good export potential.
In the case of poultry, export from India is mostly to Maldives and Oman. Other markets
such as Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore are being explored.
Export of Processed Animal Products, 2004-05
Animal casings,
552.33 Processed meat,
107.45
Buffalo meat,
306970.81
Sheep/ Goat
meat, 8885.28
Poultry
products,
264607.5
Dairy products,
48426.79
The growing number of fast food outlets in the country has had a significant impact on the
meat processing industry in India. As per capita incomes rise and urban families live in
smaller units, the demand for processed meat products, which can be quickly cooked, has
been rising. Most of the production of meat and meat products continues to be in the
unorganised sector. Some branded products like Venky’s and Godrej’s Real Chicken are,
however, becoming popular in the domestic market.
1.1.5 Fish Processing
India is the third largest fish producer in the world and is second in inland fish production.
The fisheries sector contributes US$ 4.4 billion to the national income, which is about 1.4
per cent of the total GDP. With its over 8,000 km of coastline, 3 million hectares of
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
reservoirs, 1.4 million hectares of brackish water, 50,600 sq km of continental shelf area and
2.2 million sq km of exclusive economic zone, India is endowed with rich fishery resources
and has vast potential for fishes from both inland and marine resources. Processing of fish
into canned and frozen forms is carried out almost entirely for the export market. It is widely
felt that India’s substantial fishery resources are under-utilized and there is tremendous
potential to increase the output of this sector. Total investment in the sector since 1991 has
been around US$ 600 million. With the liberalized policy, fish-processing sector has been
attracting more foreign investments. Foreign investment up to 2003 has been US$ 122.5
million.
The units in the fish processing sector are largely small scale proprietary/ partnership firms
or fishermen co-operatives. In the past ten years, the corporate sector has increased its
operations in preservation, processing and export of coastal fish.
1.1.6 Consumer Foods
Consumer food industry includes packaged foods, aerated soft drinks, packaged drinking
water and alcoholic beverages.
Packaged or Convenience Foods
This segment comprises bakery products, ready-to-eat snacks, chips, namkeens (salted
snacks and savouries) and other processed foods/ snack foods.
The market size of confectioneries is estimated at US$ 484.3 million growing at the rate of
5.7 per cent per annum. Biscuits have a market of US$ 373.4 million, growing at 7.5 per cent
per annum. Other products like bread, chocolates are also growing at a significant rate.
There is a demand for Indian snack food (Ready-To-eat) in overseas markets. The exports
market is estimated at US$ 33.4 million and is growing at around 20 per cent annually.
The packaged food industry has around over 60,000 bakeries, 20,000 traditional food units
and several pasta food units. In the past decade several new biscuits & confectionery units,
soya processing units and starch/glucose/sorbitol producing units have come up.
Multinational Companies are coming up in confectionery and cocoa based products areas.
Aerated Soft Drinks
The aerated soft drinks industry in India comprises over 100 plants across all States. It
provides direct and indirect employment to over 125,000 employees. It has attracted one of
the highest foreign direct investments in the country, amounting to around US$ 1049
million. Two of the biggest global brands in this segment are well established in India. Soft
drinks constitute the third largest packaged foods segment, after packed tea and packed
biscuits. Total export earnings of the industry are over US$ 156 million per annum.
Penetration levels of aerated soft drinks in India are quite low compared to other developing
and developed markets, an indication of further potential for rapid growth.
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
Packaged Drinking Water
The market size for packaged drinking water in India has been estimated at around US$ 223
million. The industry comprises 215 companies which have been granted license for
manufacturing packaged drinking water and 3 for manufacturing packaged natural mineral
water. Trends such as shortage of drinking water in the large metropolitan cities, changes in
consumer lifestyles leading to demand for convenience and availability of various packaged
sizes to suit different needs have led to a spurt in growth over the last 3-4 years and these
trends are expected to continue to fuel demand in this sector.
Alcoholic Beverages
India is the third largest market for alcoholic beverages in the world. The demand for spirits
and beer is estimated to be around 373 million cases per annum. There are 12 joint venture
companies producing grain based alcoholic beverages that have a combined licensed capacity
of 33.9 million litres per annum. 56 units are engaged in manufacturing beer under license
from the Government of India. The demand per annum for wine in the domestic market is
estimated to be around 6 million bottles (750 ml), while the domestic production of wine is
over 2.4 million bottles. The market is estimated to grow at a healthy rate of around 25 per
cent per annum in the next five years, indicating attractive investment potential.
Export of other Processed Food Products, 2004-05
Milled products,
140123.27
Miscellaneous
preparations,
52513.73
Cereal
preparations,
49486.85
Alcoholic and
non alcoholic
beverages,
30045.49
Groundnuts,
177115
Guargum,
129648.47
Jaggery and
confectionary,
Cocoa products, 35549.29
2273.85
1.2 Competitive advantages that India enjoys
The Indian food processing sector is highly competitive.
There are a large number of players in the organised as well as unorganized sector. The
organised sector is small but growing - for example, it forms less than 15 per cent of the
dairy sector and around 48 per cent of the fruits and vegetable processing. The sector offers
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
potential for growth and a large number of Multi National Corporations have entered into
India to leverage this opportunity.
Some of the successful overseas players in this sector include Unilever, Cadbury, Nestle and
Pepsi. These players face competition from strong Indian brands. Companies have adopted
various strategies to maintain and increase their market share in India. These include
competitive pricing, aggressive advertising campaign, expansion plans etc. Examples of such
strategies are
• Agro Tech Foods uses two strategies to counter the threat of low priced
competition. By launching lower-priced blended oils under the Sundrop umbrella,
and acquiring a fairly strong presence in the mass market for edible oils through its
low priced brand, Crystal. Secondly, it has reengineered its costs to lower its own
fixed cost structure.
• In the mass segment, Britannia has introduced biscuit packs at lower price points.
• Gits is strategically growing and broadening its export market and has launched new
international style export packaging.
• The strategy followed by Haldiram is competitive pricing and labor intensive
products that predominantly cater to the Indian palette. It follows aggressive
marketing in terms of TV advertisements, print ads and kiosks of Haldiram’s range
of products at railway stations.
• Hindustan Level Limited has followed the strategy of divesting its non-core
businesses and focusing on its food business as a growth driver.
• New products are being continuously launched in all product segments by Nestle.
The dairy portfolio consisting of regular and flavoured curds, skimmed milk and
fruit-based milk, condensed milk and butter is being expanded by launch of lassi and
cheese.
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
1.3 Diamond porter analysis of Indian Food Processing Industry
The various competitive advantages in the food processing sector in India have been
analyzed under the frame work given below:
MARKE
Demand
Conditions
Government
• In Five-year tax holiday for new
food processing units in fruits
and vegetable processing along
with other benefits has bolstered
the Government’s resolution of
encouraging growth in this
sector.
• Liberalized overall policy regime
• High market awareness.
• Rapid urbanization, increases
literacy and rising per capita
income, have all caused rapid
growth and changes in demand
patterns
• India has a wide-ranging and
large raw material base suitable
for food processing industries.
• India has developed advanced
technology to support food
processing industry.
Related and supporting
industries
• India’s comparatively cheaper
workforce can be effectively
utilized to setup large low cost
production bases for domestic and
export markets.
• diverse agro-climatic conditions
India is second in world in terms
of arable land (million hectares)
Factor
conditions
Firm strategy,
structure and
rivalry
• A large number of domestic
as well as multi-national
players.
• Highly competitive industry
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
2. POLICIES AND REGULATIONS
2.1 Policy Initiatives
Given the size of the industry and the nascent development stage, the food processing sector
is a key focus area for the Government of India. The importance of the sector is further
enhanced by the fact that over 70 per cent of the population depends upon agricultural
activity for livelihood. The government has therefore been focusing on commercialization
and value addition to agricultural produce, minimizing pre/post harvest wastage, generating
employment and export growth in this sector, through a number of regulatory and fiscal
incentives. The industry is largely unorganised, with a small but growing organised sector.
The popularity of food and agro products is not surprising when the sector is now offering a
growth of more than 150 per cent in sales. With such promise in the sector, a number of
foreign companies have joined the fray. While US brands such as McDonald's, Pizza Hut
and Kentucky Fried Chicken have become household names, more are on their way.
The new wave in the food industry is not only about foreign companies arriving here
attracted by the prospective size of the market. It is also about the migration of the Made in
India tag on food products traveling abroad. Indian food brands and fast moving consumer
goods (FMCGs) are now increasingly finding prime shelf-space in the retail chains of the US
and Europe. These include Cobra Beer, Bikanervala Foods, MTR Foods' ready-to-eat food
stuff, ITC's Kitchen of India and Satnam Overseas' Basmati rice.
The Government has formulated and implemented several schemes to provide financial
assistance for setting up and modernizing of food processing units, creation of
infrastructure, support for research and development and human resource development in
addition to other promotional measures to encourage the growth of the processed food
sector.
• The Centre has permitted under the Income Tax Act a deduction of 100 per cent of
profit for five years and 25 per cent of profit in the next five years in case of new agro
processing industries set up to package and preserve fruits and vegetables.
• Excise Duty of 16 per cent on dairy machinery has been fully waived off and excise duty
on meat, poultry and fish products has been reduced from 16 per cent to 8 per cent.
• Most of the processed food items have been exempted from the purview of licensing
under the Industries (Development and regulation) Act, 1951, except items reserved for
small-scale sector and alcoholic beverages.
• Food processing industries were included in the list of priority sector for bank lending in
1999.
• Automatic approval for foreign equity up to 100 per cent is available for most of the
processed food items except alcohol, beer and those reserved for small-scale sector
subject to certain conditions.
• The Union Commerce Ministry has approved a brand promotion campaign for valueadded
“Made in India” cashew being launched in the West Asian market by March end.
The campaign, mooted by Cashew Export Promotion Council of India (CEPCI),
involves a financial assistance of US$ 344,787 by the Ministry.
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
• Full repatriation of profits and capital has been allowed.
• Zero duty import of capital goods and raw material for 100 per cent export oriented
units.
• Sales of up to 50 per cent in domestic tariff area for agro based, 100 per cent export
oriented units is allowed.
• Government grants have been given for setting up common facilities in agro Food Park.
• Full duty exemption on all imports for units in export processing zones has been done.
2.2 Food Safety and Standard Act, 2006
Till the year 2005, thirteen different laws were applicable on the food and food processing
sector. Multiple laws/ regulations prescribe varied standards regarding food additives,
contaminants, food colours, preservatives and labeling. In order to rationalize the
multiplicity of food laws, a Group of Ministers (GoM) was set up to suggest legislative and
other changes to formulate integrated food law, to be a single reference point in relation to
regulation of food products. Based on the recommendations of the GoM the ministry of
food processing enacted the Food Safety & Standard Act (FSSA), 2006. Salient features of
the act:
• FSSA will be aided by several scientific panels and a central advisory committee to lay
down standards for food safety. These standards will include specifications for
ingredients, contaminants, pesticide residue, biological hazards and labels.
• The law will be enforced through State Commissioners of Food Safety and local level
officials.
• Everyone in the food sector is required to get a licence or a registration which would be
issued by local authorities.
• Every distributor is required to be able to identify any food article to its manufacturer,
and every seller to its distributor. Anyone in the sector should be able to initiate recall
procedures if he finds that the food sold had violated specified standards.
2.3 Foreign Direct Investment
The government of India is planning to offer 100 per cent foreign direct investment and
income tax benefits in the food processing sector.
Foreign direct investment (FDI) in the country's food sector is poised to hit the US$ 3-
billion mark. In the last one year alone, FDI approvals in food processing have doubled. The
cumulative FDI inflow in food processing reached US$ 2,804 million in March '06. In '05-
06, the sector received approvals worth US$ 41 million. This figure is almost double the US$
22 million approved in 2004-05.
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
Nearly 30 per cent of FDI in this sector comes from EU countries such as Netherlands,
Germany, Italy and France. Some of the successful ventures from EU countries are Perfetti,
Cadbury, Godrej-Pilsbury, Nutricia International, Manjini Comaco, etc.
The US-based private equity fund, New Vernon Private Equity Limited (NVPEL), has
decided to invest Rs 45 0 million in Kochi-based masala major, Eastern Condiments, the
flagship company of Eastern Group.
America's largest chocolate and confectionery-maker Hershey is acquiring 51 per cent stake
in Godrej Beverages & Foods for US$ 54 million.
2.4 Vision strategy and action plan
Ministry had commissioned a Vision preparation for the growth of FPI sector. The Vision
Document was released on April 07, 2005. The Vision envisages that industry should aim to
increase processing level of perishables from 6per cent to 20 per cent, increase value
addition from the present level of 20 per cent to 34per cent and share in global trade up
from 1.6 per cent to 3 per cent, thus tripling the size of processed food industry by 2015.
Tripling of the size of industry is estimated to generate direct employment of 2.8 million and
indirect employment of 7.4 million persons.
2.5 Tax Relief for Speed Growth of FPI Sector
Budget of 2006- 07
Recognizing the enormous benefits that the food processing industry can bring to
agriculture and job creation, and to consumers, food processing will be treated as a priority
sector for bank credit. NABARD will create a separate window with a corpus of US$ 225
million for refinancing loans to the sector, especially for agro-processing infrastructure and
market development. Government will also set up the National Institute of Food
Technology Entrepreneurship and Management. The Paddy Processing Research Centre at
Thanjavur will be developed into a national-level institute.
• Output of foodgrains likely to be 209.3 MT
• 2 per cent credit on farm loans
• To double farm loans in 3-Years
• US$ 22 million fund to help tea growers
• Increased funding for repair of water bodies
• To double farm loans in 3 years Short term credit to farm
Food processing industry has been given a fillip as the condensed milk, ice cream,
preparation of meat, fish and poultry, pectins, pasta and yeast have been fully exempted
from excise duties.
2.6 Eleventh Five Year Plan (2007-2012) Initiatives
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
• To cope up with the growth of 9% visualized during the 11th Five Year Plan milk
production has to be enhanced, so that, per capita availability is doubled as milk
contributes almost 60-65% of the total livestock product value
• To build participatory institutions of collective action for small-scale farmers that allow
them to get vertically integrated with livestock processors and input suppliers
• To create an environment in which farmers will increase investment in ways that will
improve productivity in the livestock sector
• To promote effective regulatory institutions to deal with the threat of environmental and
health crisis stemming from livestock
• To increase per ha. fish production through private sector to bring it at par with national
average
• To develop PAN culture for raising fish finger-lings
• Renovation of 1,642 seasonal ponds through NREG Programme to make available
approx. 6,000 ha. additional water area
• Development of fish seed production and infrastructure in vicinity of NVDA reservoirs
• Providing employment to fisherman communities by allotting water bodies on long lease
for fish culture
• To introduce biotechnology in fish seed and fish production
2.7 Infrastructure Development in Food Processing Sector
There is a lack of suitable infrastructure in the shape of cold chain, packaging centres, value
added centre, modernized abattoirs etc. Improvement in general infrastructure is also an aid
for energizing of sector. Government attaches highest priority to development and
expansion of physical infrastructure for facilitating prompt growth of industries. In order to
address the problem of infrastructure in food processing sector, the Government has
implemented the scheme for infrastructure development comprising the following
components:
Food Park Scheme
The idea behind setting up of food parks is that small and medium entrepreneurs find it
difficult to invest in capital-intensive activities. Therefore, as a part of the strategy to develop
food processing infrastructure, the Ministry has been pro actively pursuing the task of setting
up of food parks in different parts of the country. In the food parks, common facilities like
cold storage, food testing and analysis lab, affluent treatment plant, common processing
facilities, packaging centre, power supply, water supply, seminar / conference / training
facilities etc can be assisted. Financial assistance for food parks is provided at 25 per cent for
general and 33.33 per cent for difficult areas subject to a maximum of Rs. 40 million. Under
the scheme, 02 food parks were assisted under 8th Plan, 39 under 9th Plan Scheme and 10
under 10th Plan. An amount of Rs. 1.04 billion has been sanctioned up to December 2005.
22 food parks have become operational.
In a bid to boost the food sector, the Government is working on agrizones and the concept
of mega food parks. Twenty such mega parks will come up across the country in various
cities to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the food processing sector.
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
The Government has released a total assistance of US$ 23 million to implement the Food
Parks Scheme. It has so far approved 50 food parks for assistance across the country. The
Centre also plans US$ 22 billion subsidy for at least 10 mega food processing parks.
Packaging Centres
The Scheme aims to provide facilities for packaging, which may help in enhancement of
shelf life of food products and make them internationally acceptable. Assistance at 25 per
cent of the project cost in general areas and 33.33 per cent in difficult areas subject to a
maximum of Rs. 20 million is provided for establishment of packaging centre. Assistance is
available to all implementing agencies. So far assistance of Rs. 1450 million has been
sanctioned to one packaging centre in Jammu & Kashmir.
Integrated Cold Chain Facility
The scheme is intended to improve viability of cold storages and enhance cold storage
capacity. Assistance at 25 per cent of the project cost in general areas and 33.33 per cent in
difficult areas subject to a maximum of Rs. 7.5 million is provided for establishment of cold
chain facilities. During 10th Plan an amount of Rs. 4010 million has been sanctioned
towards assistance for three cold storages in Gujarat, three in Maharashtra, one each in U.P.,
Kerala, Manipur, Meghalaya, Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi and Goa. During 9th Plan,
assistance of Rs. 148.6 million was extended to 53 cold storages.
Value Added Centre (VAC)
The Scheme is intended to enhance value addition leading to enhanced shelf life, higher total
realization and value addition at each level of handling and also to facilitate traceability.
Assistance at 25 per cent of the project cost in general areas and 33.33 per cent in difficult
areas subject to a maximum Rs. 7.5 million is provided for establishment and modernization
of value added centre. So far, three VACs i.e. one each in Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh
and Punjab have been sanctioned assistance involving an amount of Rs. 1100 million during
10th plan.
Irradiation Facilities
The scheme aims at enhancing shelf life of the food product through irradiation techniques
by preventing infestation like in flour, sprouting and change in chemical composition of the
product (as in potato). Financial assistance at 25 per cent of the project cost in general areas
and 33.33 per cent in difficult areas subject to a maximum of Rs. 50 million is provided for
establishment of irradiation facilities. So far four irradiation projects i.e. two in Maharashtra
and one each in West Bengal and Haryana have been sanctioned assistance involving an
amount of Rs. 78.9 million.
Modernized Abattoir
The Scheme aims at scientific and hygienic slaughter, causing least pain to the cattle and
ensuring better byproduct utilization. Assistance at 25 per cent of the project cost in general
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
areas and 33.33 per cent in difficult areas subject to a maximum of Rs. 40 million is provided
to local bodies for modernization of abattoirs. So far only one case i.e. of MCD Delhi has
been approved for grant of Rs. 40 million.
2.8 Sector-Specific Government Policies
2.8.1 Fruits and vegetables
Though no industrial license is required for setting up Fruits & Vegetable Processing
industries, setting-up 100 per cent Export Oriented Units require specific Govt. approvals.
• Many Fruits & Vegetables Processing industries are eligible for automatic approval
of foreign technology agreement and up to 51 per cent foreign equity participation
including tomatoes, mushrooms & other frozen vegetables, fruit, nuts, fruit-peel,
fruit jellies, marmalades, fruit juices & vegetable juices etc.
• This sector is regulated by the Fruit Products Order, 1955 (FPO), issued under the
Essential Commodities Act
• All processing units are required to obtain a license under this order
• Some items like: pickles & chutneys, tapioca sago and tapioca flour are reserved for
exclusive manufacture in the small scale sector
• Export of fruit & vegetable products is freely allowed
2.8.2 Fisheries
• Foreign equity is permitted in fish processing sector. Fish processing projects with a
minimum of 20 per cent value addition can be set up as 100 per cent Export
Oriented Units
• All items can be exported freely except for silver pomfrets of weight less than 300
grams
• Export of marine products is allowed only after registration of the units as an
exporter with the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA),
Cochin
2.8.3 Meat & Poultry
• The Meat Products Control Order, 1973 under the Essential Commodities Act, 1954
regulates the manufacture, quality and sale of all meat products
• A license is required under this order to set up of a factory for producing/processing
meat products
• Export of meat is subjected to pre-shipment inspection and a certificate is required
from State Animal Husbandry Department/Directorate of Marketing and Inspection
• Slaughter of cows is banned in most of the States. Export of beef is prohibited
• A No Objection Certificate (NOC) has to be obtained from the District
administration for the slaughter of cattle, buffaloes etc.
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
• Permission from the civic bodies/State Government (Department of Animal
Husbandry) is also required before setting up a meat processing unit integrated with
a slaughter house
2.8.4 Milk & Milk products
• Milk and Milk Products Order (MMPO) regulates milk and milk products
production in the country. The order requires no permission for units handling less
than 10,000 litres of liquid milk per day or milk solids up to 500 tonnes per annum
• All the milk products except malted foods are covered in the category of industries
for which foreign equity participation up to 51 per cent is automatically allowed
• Ice cream, which was earlier reserved for manufacturing in the small scale sector, has
now been de-reserved. As such, no license is required for setting up of large scale
production facilities for manufacture of ice cream
• Subsequent to de canalization, exports of some milk based products are freely
allowed provided these units comply with the compulsory inspection requirements
of concerned agencies like: National Dairy Development Board, Export Inspection
Council etc.
2.8.5 Grains
The Rice Milling Industry (Regulation) Act 1958 & Rice Milling Industry (Regulation &
Licensing) Rules 1959 have been repealed from 28 May, 1997.
• Rice milling and pulse milling sectors, which were earlier reserved for the small scale
sector, have now been de reserved
• Since liberalization, there is no license requirement for setting up or capacity
expansion of roller flour mills. The mills can obtain their wheat supply from any
source
• There is no license requirement or price/distribution controls on manufacture of
wheat products
2.8.6 Packaged Foods
• The industry is de licensed and automatic approval for foreign investment up to 51
per cent of equity (except for items like malted food and items which are reserved
for production in small scale sector) is granted
• The setting up of 100 per cent export oriented units requires specific government
approval
• The packaging laws and regulations affecting food products are mainly covered
under the Standards of Weights and Measures Act, 1976, and the Standards of
Weights and Measures (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 1977 (SWMA) specifying the
quantity and package labeling regulations for all products
• The Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954, and the Prevention of Food
Adulteration Rules, 1955 (PFA) specify food adulteration/contamination norms and
permissible ingredients from consumer health and safety point of view
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
• The Agmark Rules relate to the quality specifications and needs of certain
agricultural products to be eligible for Agmark certification
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
3. COMPETITION OVERVIEW
3.1 Dabur India Ltd.
Dabur India Limited is the fourth largest FMCG Company in India with interests in Health
care, Personal care and Food products. Building on a legacy of quality and experience for
over 100 years, today Dabur has a turnover of Rs.19 billion with powerful brands like Dabur
Amla, Dabur Chyawanprash, Vatika, Hajmola & Real.
It is a closely held company with promoters holding at 78.4per cent of the total share capital.
Dabur foods is a 100 per cent subsidiary of Dabur India, with a turnover of Rs 858 million
in 2004.
Catering to the beverages and cullinary segment, its major products are fruit juices, cooling
pastes, coconut milk, tomato puree, lemon drink, chilli powder and honey.
The company will further focus on boosting sales to hotels, restaurants and caterers in
addition to retail sales.
3.2 Gitz Food Products Pvt. Ltd.
Gitz Food Products Pvt. Ltd. is majorly into snack foods and dairy products with a large
product range of sweet mix, namkeens, snack mixes, pure ghee, dairy whitner and milk
powder.
Gitz exports to Europe, UK, USA, Australia, Canada and the Middle East contributing to
the extent of approximately 35 per cent of its total revenue. Gitz is an unlisted private family
owned business.
Gitz is strategically growing and broadening its export market and has launched new
international style export packaging.
3.3 Godrej Industries Ltd
Godrej Industries Ltd, a member of the Rs. 45 billion (US$ 1 billion) Godrej Group is
India's leading manufacturer of oleo chemicals and food products. The foods division of
Godrej Industries produces and markets edible oils, vanaspati, bakery fats, fruit drinks, fruit
nectar and tomato puree. Their revenues from the food segment were US$ 41.3 million
(Rs1.9 billion) in FY04.
The division has two state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities: at Wadala in Mumbai, the
capital of the western Indian state of Maharashtra; and at Mandideep near Bhopal in the
northern Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. It has a national distribution network consisting of
800 distributors and 24 consignment agents. The plants are equipped with the best of
modern equipment for the processing and packaging of a wide variety of food products.
The company’s strategy is to increase capacity utilization in edible oils and to tap the niche
health conscious market.
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
3.4 Haldiram Marketing Pvt. Ltd
Haldiram Marketing Pvt. Ltd was started in 1936. Their major share is namkeen and snack
food market in India along with syrups, crushes, chips and papads. They have a strong
presence in northern India especially in New Delhi. They exports to USA, UK, Canada,
Australia, Singapore and the UAE.
3.5 MTR Foods Ltd
MTR Foods Ltd is an ISO 9002 and HACCP certified company is amongst the top five
processed food manufacturers in India. They manufacture, market and export a wide range
of packaged foods to global markets that include USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand,
Malaysia, Singapore, UAE and Oman. The turnover is estimated at US$ 261 million (Rs12
billion), with the export market accounting for approximately 10 per cent of MTR’s total
sales.
Their wide range of products include ready-to-eat curries and rice, ready-to-cook gravies,
frozen foods, ice cream, instant snack and dessert mixes, spices(turmeric, coriander, black
pepper) and a variety of accompaniments like pickles and papads.
The strategy followed is competitive pricing and labor intensive products that predominantly
cater to the Indian palette.
After establishing itself in the south, MTR is developing its brand in the west and north
Indian markets in line with the rapid expansion of its products.
3.6 Parle Agro Private Ltd
Parle Agro Private Ltd is leading player in the fruit based beverages segment and the bottled
water segment. Its flagship product is the fruit based drink Frooti Mango, which has 75 per
cent market share. It is also present in the mineral water segment.
3.7 Mill Food
It is a subsidiary of LP Investments Ltd. which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Jagatjit
Industries Ltd. They cater mainly to the dairy products segment, with a product range of
milk powder, baby food, cheese and other milk products.
3.8 Hindustan Lever Limited (HLL)
The parent company Unilever holds 51.55 percent of HLL’s equity. Unilever is a Fortune
500 transnational, which sells Foods and Home and Personal Care brands in about 100
countries worldwide. India’s largest fast moving consumer goods company, with leadership
in Home & Personal Care Products and Foods & Beverages. HLL’s Foods segment is at 9
per cent, beverages are at 12 per cent of its businesses.
It caters mainly to the beverages, staples, snacks and dairy products with a wide range of
products like tea, instant coffee, biscuits, ice creams, salt, wheat flour, instant drinks, soups,
jams and squash.
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
3.9 Britannia Industries Ltd
A leading player in the Indian organised biscuit market with nearly 30 per cent value share.
The Nusli Wadia group, one of the oldest business houses in India and Groupe Danone,
French multi-products food company, equally share the 48.5 per cent promoter holding in
Britannia. Britannia achieved sales of Rs. 18.18 billion in the financial year 2005-06.
It mainly caters to the bakery products segment with a product portfolio of biscuits,
flavoured milk, dairy whitener, ghee, bread, cake and rusk.
3.10 Agro Tech Foods
A dominant player in the edible oils and branded foods sector, in India. ConAgra Foods Inc
of USA, world’s third largest foods company, along with Tiger Brands of South Africa holds
a majority stake of 52.3 percent in Agro Tech Foods Ltd, through CAG Tech Holdings,
Mauritius. It made net sales of Rs. 2.8 billion in the second quarter of financial year 2007.
It mainly caters to the snacks and staples food market having a product portfolio of wheat
flour, edible oil, vanaspati, popcorn, French fries and green peas.
3.11 ITC Ltd.
ITC is a listed company with British American Tobacco (BAT) holding 33 per cent stake and
Institutions holding 50 per cent stake. ITC made its entry into the branded & packaged
foods business in August 2001 with the launch of the Kitchens of India brand. A more
broad based entry was made in mid 2002 and the company currently has a wider portfolio in
the confectionery, staples and snack foods segments.
It caters to the staples and snacks food segment having a product range of wheat flour, salt,
ready to eat meals, biscuits, confectionaries, snacks and cooking pastes.
3.12 Nestle India Pvt. Ltd.
Nestle India Pvt. Ltd. was incorporated in 1959 as Food Specialties, Nestle Alimentana,
Switzerland promoted Nestle India (NIL). Nestle India is a 51 percent subsidiary of Nestle
SA (founded 1866), which is today the world’s largest food and beverage company. The net
sales of Nestle for the year 2006 were Rs. 281.61 billion.
It majorly caters to dairy products, beverages and snack foods, with products ranging from
instant coffee, condensed milk, dairy whitener and infant food to chocolates and
confectionaries.
The company is focusing on launching new products in all product segments.
3.13 PepsiCo India Pvt. Ltd.
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
PepsiCo was founded in 1965 through the merger of Pepsi-Cola and Frito-Lay. It acquired
Tropicana in 1998 and further merged with The Quarter Oats Company including Gatorade
in 2001.
It caters to the beverages and snack food segment having a product portfolio of soft drinks,
fruit juices and chips.
It’s focus is high volume sales and is planning to raise capacity by setting up of new
Greenfield projects as well as appointing new franchisee bottlers.
3.14 Cadbury India Ltd.
Cadbury India Ltd is a subsidiary of Cadbury Schweppes which is a dominating player in the
Indian chocolate market with strong brands like Dairy Milk, Five Star, Perk, Gems etc.
Dairy milk is the largest chocolate brand in India. Chocolates and confectionery contribute
to 75 per cent of Cadbury’s turnover.
It basically caters to the confectionaries segment and is a dominant player. It has a huge
product portfolio including chocolates, hard boiled confectionery, malt foods, and cocoa
powder.
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
4. CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
The future of the Indian farmer depends on the success of the food industry as India's
prosperity is predominantly linked to the growth of incomes in the agrarian sector of the
economy. Increasing liberalization of the economy has tried to lift the protection that the
food and agriculture sector once enjoyed in the country. This has exposed the sector both to
the opportunities and challenges of the global food economy.
The market forces are compelling the Indian agriculture producers to increase the quality of
their farm produce while continuing to maintain their cost competitiveness in order to be
able to compete effectively in the global food market. Even in the domestic market, rising
per capita incomes and changing demographic profile of the population has ensured the
growing demand for processed and convenience foods. Increasing consumer awareness
about health and hygiene has shifted the focus of the market to "safe" foods.
The Indian food-processing sector is undergoing a veritable revolution - all the way from the
plate to the plough.
Indian food processing industry has seen significant growth and changes over the past few
years, driven by changing trends in markets, consumer segments and regulations. These
trends, such as changing demographics, growing population and rapid urbanization are
expected to continue in the future and, therefore, will shape the demand for value added
products and thus for food processing industry in India. The Government of India’s focus
towards food processing industry as a priority sector is expected to ensure policies to
support investment in this sector and attract more FDI. India, having access to vast pool of
natural resources and growing technical knowledge base, has strong comparative advantages
over other nations in this industry. The food processing sector in India is clearly an attractive
sector for investment and offers significant growth potential to investors.
Challenges faced by the Indian industry
The most crucial challenge today that the Indian food processing industry is facing is the
lack of suitable infrastructure in the shape of cold chain, packaging centres, value added
centre, modernized abattoirs etc.
Improvement in general infrastructure is also a must requirement for the industry to
progress. Some other important initiatives that are needed are
• Promotion of appropriate crossbreeds while conserving indigenous breeds of
livestock
• Establishment of livestock marketing system
• Promotion of rural backyard poultry in a cooperative marketing setup
• Development of cooperative dairy firms
• Enhancing livestock extension services
• Encouraging private veterinary clinic
• Institutionalising a framework for utilising synergy between restoration and creation
of water bodies for water harvesting and fishery
Corporate Catalyst India A report on Indian Food Processing Industry
• Provision of an insurance package to avoid distress
Strengths and opportunities that India enjoys
• It is the seventh largest country, with extensive administrative structure and
independent judiciary, a sound financial & infrastructural network and above all a
stable and thriving democracy
• Due to its diverse agro-climatic conditions, it has a wide-ranging and large raw
material base suitable for food processing industries. Presently a very small
percentage of these are processed into value added products
• It is one of the biggest emerging markets, with over 1 billion population and a 250
million strong middle class
• Rapid urbanisation, increased literacy and rising per capita income, have all caused
rapid growth and changes in demand patterns, leading to tremendous new
opportunities for exploiting the large latent market. An average Indian spends about
50 per cent of household expenditure on food items.
• Demand for processed/convenience food is constantly on the rise
• India's comparatively cheaper workforce can be effectively utilized to setup large low
cost production bases for domestic and export markets
• Liberalized overall policy regime, with specific incentives for high priority food
processing sector, provide a very conducive environment for investments and
exports in the sector
• Very good investment opportunities exist in many areas of food processing
industries, the important ones being : fruit & vegetable processing, meat, fish &
poultry processing, packaged, convenience food and drinks, milk products etc.

Tallest building in the city limits by the end of 2010.

2009-02-21T09:50:00.000-08:00

CHENNAI: The government will literally tower over the citizens of Chennai in about two years. Chennai’s next skyscraper - the secretariat, set to come up adjacent to the assembly building inside the Omandurar Government Estate on Mount Road - will be the tallest building in the city limits by the end of 2010.

The 20-storeyed building, which will house government departments, will come up close to the futuristic assembly complex, for which the foundation stone was laid on Thursday.

While the legislature will move from the 17th century fort with Indo-Saracenic interiors to a new complex that blends futuristic design elements with traditional motifs, the babus will be transplanted from a building with 10 floors within Fort St George to a structure twice its height.

In a sense, the assembly will be coming back to the government estate, as it had functioned for some years from Rajaji Hall, which will remain untouched within the new complex.

Two other skyscrapers are being built in greater Chennai - a 28-storeyed residential complex being put up by the Hiranandani group and a 29-storeyed structure of True Value Homes, both on Old Mahabalipuram Road.

Within the city, the secretariat will certainly be a new landmark. For decades, the LIC building, with 14 floors, was the symbol of good old Madras. The Jains Westminster building in Virugambakkam, with 18 floors, snatched the pride of place from LIC. Berlin based architects - gmp, von Gerkan, Marg and Partner - have designed the new secretariat building. "The new secretariat will be a towering structure, housing government departments," said Hubert Nienhoff, CEO architect-partner, GMP.

Detailing the concepts that went into the architecture, Nienhoff said the basic idea came from the ‘mandala’ motif as the team was browsing through traditional Tamil symbols.

The architects learnt about the competition (for the best design) very late. "As we were keen to expand and embrace other cultures, we submitted a design combining modern and traditional elements. As the new assembly was to be a symbol of democracy, we came up with the design for a unique, iconic monument," he said.

"We were lucky to be selected. The chief minister liked the design from day 1. We had to work really hard," he said. The architects chose the dome for the legislature as it was an architectural symbol of democracy worldwide.

2009-02-21T07:05:00.000-08:00

St.Bernard

Breed Group: Working

Height: Color(s): white with red, red or brindle with white; white must appear on chest, feet, tail tip, noseband, and collar ; may have dark mask Coat: The Saint Bernard breed has two different coat varieties: the smooth or shorthaired, and the rough or longhaired. Both varieties of coat are extremely dense in texture and are water resistant. Distinct features: heavy bone structure, forehead are prominent and broad and even markings are there Temperament: The Saint Bernard are excellent with children and other animals. They have a protective instinct for their family and make excellent watchdogs. They are sensible and loving and make a great family pet. They thrive on high amounts of love and attention. Activity: The Saint Bernard requires a moderate amount of outdoor exercise. It is important they do not become over-heated. They enjoy daily walks and play sessions. They are suitable for apartment living provided they are given frequent walks. They will enjoy a yard of any size but it must be securely fenced.

Large Dog Breed Bull Mastiff .. English Mastiff ..French Mastiff.. Neopolitan Mastiff ..Great Dane.. St.BernardMedium Dog BreedAustralian Sheperd ..Beauceron..Belgium Shepherd.. Boxer..Chow Chow..Dalmatian..Dobermann.. German Shepherd..Golden Retriever..Grey Hound..Irish Setter..Labrador Retriever.. New foundland..Pointer.. Rajyapalam..Rottweiler.. Rough Coolie..Siberian Husky..SMALL DOG BREED Basset Hound..Beagle.. Bichon Fries..Bull Dog – English ..FrenchBull Terrier.. Chihuahua..Cocker Spaniel..Dachshund..Jack RusselTerrier..Lhasa Apso..Maltese.. Miniature Pinscher.. Pekingese..Pit Bullterrier..Pomeranian..Poodle..Pug..Samoyed..Scottish Terrier..Shih-Tzu..Tibetan Spaniel..Yorkshire Terrier..
BREEDING YOUR DOG

2009-02-21T07:02:00.000-08:00

Great Dane

Breed Group: Working Weight: 54 kgs Height: 76 cms Color(s): brindle, black-masked fawn, blue, black, harlequin (white with irregular black patches) Coat: The Great Dane has a very short and thick coat, which should retain a glossy appearance. A relatively clean dog, this breed doesn't require much coat maintenance. Distinct feature: This is a very responsible and dependable breed, making him a great family pet. This breed should be extensively trained during puppyhood so they do not lean on people, especially children, or have any behavioral problems in the future. Temperament: His sheer size makes this breed very intimidating, however this dog is very gentle and loving. They can do well around other dogs, but should be socialized to prevent them becoming dog aggressive. The Great Dane is a very playful and loyal breed. Activity: The Great Dane should have a large sized yard and plenty of exercise room. A very large breed, he requires very long walks regularly. This breed proves to be a good jogging companion and does well running alongside a bike.

More..Great Dane

The Great Dane is referred to as the Gentle Giant, Apollo of all breeds, Deutsche Dogge, German Mastiff, bulky behemoth, and happy hulk. The dogs can track, watch, and pull carts. The Irish Wolfhound is the only dog near its size, and it can battle bears and boars. Asian tribes invaded parts of Germany, Italy, and France, and the Mastiff dogs came with them. These mammoth mastiffs were crossbred with the native Irish Greyhounds to produce Great Danes. Generally, the breed beguiles folks with its massive size. Its large stature can be beguiling to its friendly disposition and lack of aggression toward strangers, other animals, wild dogs, and children. It's uncommon for a Great Dane to have dominance problems with dogs of the same breed and sex, and it shouldn't be outwardly aggressive toward anyone. The Great Dane, Pennsylvania's state dog and the world's tallest dog, has some average height and weight specs. Males average 30 to 34 inches in height. Females average 28 to 32 inches at the withers. The withers are the highest point on the animal's back. They weigh an impressive 120 to 200 pounds for males, and the females are a little lighter. They weigh 100 to 130 pounds. The short, shimmering, shiny coat comes in fawn, brindle, black, blue, mantle harlequin, and merle. In plain English, you'll see splotches, blotches, patches, streaks, flecks, and specks. Fancy words like brindle, mantle harlequin, and merle are just for the fanciers, really. Comb the massive coat with a firm bristle brush daily and keep it clean or else you'll be stuck outside washing its massive coat in the hot sun. It can take hours because it's such a hefty dog. The Great Dane loves people. It's friendly, not terrifying. Its stature shouldn't give bequeath unfair prejudices and stereotypes to it. They live 10 years or less. By the way, the tallest dog ever recorded was 42 inches high, and you'll often see Great Danes in paintings beside dwarfs. They're on currency in Ancient Greek metropolises too. They're quite peculiar to the Ancient people and modern people alike. Their great size and gentle spirit are puzzling to some. They suffer from health problems like bloat, hip dysplasia, DCM, congenital heart disease, staph infections, blindness, deafness, cancer, tail injuries, and digestive disorders. Feed them small meals, contrary to their appearance. They can die from over-eating, and it's called gastric torsion. A veterinarian should address any stomach illness signs or else the bloat can produce immediate death. The Great Dane has many uses. Foremost, it's an avid watchdog. Other than that, it's dignified, noble, and kind. It thrives on human interaction and connection. It won't bark or fight unless the situation clearly calls for those things. It's smart and knows when to get riled up. Great Danes are great family dogs, but their short lifespan are troubling.

Common misspellings are greatdane, greatdanes, great dayn, great dayns, grate dane, grate danes, great dain, great dains, great dan, great dans, gret dane, gret danes, great dnae, gerat dane, greta dane, graet dane, rreat dane, nreat dane, treat dane, hreat dane, breat dane, freat dane, geeat dane, gteat dane, ggeat dane, gfeat dane, grest dane, grezt dane, greqt dane, grear dane, greag dane, greay dane, great eane, great sane, great cane, great fane, great dsne, great dzne, great dqne, great dame, great dahe, great dabe, great dnaes, gerat danes, greta danes, graet danes, rreat danes, nreat danes, treat danes, hreat danes, breat danes, freat danes, geeat danes, gteat danes, ggeat danes, gfeat danes, grest danes, grezt danes, greqt danes, grear danes, greag danes, greay danes, great eanes, great sanes, great canes, great fanes, great dsnes, great dznes, great dqnes, great dames, great dahes, great dabes.

2009-02-21T06:56:00.000-08:00

Neopolitan mastiff

Breed Group: Mastiff Weight: weighs 50-70 kg (110-150 lbs) Height: 60-75 cm (23-30 in Size: It has a large, droopy, wrinkled head with large flews (upper lips) and dewlap (wrinkled folds beneath the chin), deep set eyes which are almost entirely covered by folds, and pronounced stop (depression where the muzzle meets the forehead). Loose folds of skin cover nearly the entire body. Neapolitan Mastiffs have a flat back, round feet, and low-hanging tail docked to two-thirds its natural length. Coat: The Neapolitan Mastiff has a short, dense, hard, fine, uniformly smooth coat. The Neapolitan Mastiff can be standard grey, leaden grey, dove-grey, leaden black, brown, fawn, deep fawn, light fawn, or hazel. White patches on the chest and tips of the toes are not uncommon. Distinct feature: The Neapolitan Mastiff is confident, gentle-natured, and powerful. Bred as a guard dog, it is highly suspicious of strangers and protective of its property and family. It does not bark unless necessary. Neapolitan Mastiffs are intelligent, majestic, and noble. They do drool and tend to make a mess when eating and drinking. Temperament: Neapolitan Mastiffs are very good with children if socialized early, but close supervision around young children is advised due to their massive size. The Neapolitan Mastiff generally gets along with other dogs and household pets, but socialization when young is recommended. Male Neapolitan Mastiffs may be aggressive with other male dogs. Activity: In spite of its large size, the adult Neapolitan Mastiff has only an average need for exercise. It enjoys walks or play in a large fenced-in yard. Puppy Neapolitan Mastiffs should not be over exercised—the Neapolitan Mastiff requires all of its energy to grow strong bones and put on weight because it grows very rapidly. Due to their large size and space requirements, Neapolitan Mastiffs are not recommended for small apartments.

2009-02-21T06:53:00.000-08:00

French Mastiff

Breed Group: Mastiff Weight: 54-66 kg (120-145 lbs) Height: 58-76 cm (23-30 in) Feature: It reaches its full height at one year old and its full weight at two years. French Mastiffs have short, muscular bodies with huge, wrinkly heads. They have a short muzzle, brown nose, and light eyes. Smaller Bordeaux Bulldogs are sometimes referred to as ‘Doguins’. Coat: The French Mastiff has thick, wrinkly skin and a short, soft coat which comes in shades of fawn to mahogany. It has a black or red mask and possible white markings on the chest and toe tips. The French Mastiff is an average shedder. Character: Loyal and devoted to its family, the Bordeaux Bulldog is fearless and proud. It is gentle with children and family members, kindhearted, and sometimes gullible. French Mastiffs make excellent watch dogs and guard dogs. They do tend to snore and sometimes drool. Temperament: The French Mastiff is calm and patient. It should be well socialized with other animals from an early age. French Mastiffs have a patient, gentle temperament, however they are suspicious and confrontational with strangers and sometimes aggressive with other dogs, especially males. Activity: Bordeaux Bulldogs require a lot of exercise, but are very inactive indoors. They need either a yard to play in or a daily walk. Apartment life is suitable for the French Mastiff.

2009-02-21T06:49:00.000-08:00

English Mastiff

Breed Group: Working Weight: 70 kgs Height: 70 cms Color(s): fawn, apricot, or brindle, all with dark muzzle, ears and nose Coat: The Mastiff is a double coat breed. The outer coat is short, coarse, and straight. The under coat is dense and fits closely to the body. The nose, muzzle, and ears are black. Distinct feature: A massive, muscular, and powerful dog, the Mastiff is one of the heaviest of breeds. Mastiffs are fearless, alert, and extremely courageous. Temperament: The Mastiff is a watchful, reliable, and intelligent breed. They are exceedingly loyal and deeply devoted to their family. This breed thrives on human companionship and affection .The Mastiff does best in a home with older considerate children. They do not do well with other household pets they have not been raised with. This breed is naturally protective and is extremely possessive of their family and home. Activity: Daily securely leashed walks or a play session in a safely fenced small yard are highly recommended to keep them happy and fit. They will do okay in an apartment or condominium dwelling provided they are given stimulation, attention, and sufficient exercise.

2009-02-21T06:46:00.000-08:00

Bullmastiff

Breed Group: Mastiff Weight: weighs 45-60 kg (100-133 lbs) Height: 61-68 cm (24-27 in) Feature: The Bullmastiff has a large, wrinkly head and a short, wide, dark muzzle. It has a dark nose with wide nostrils and round, amber eyes. Bullmastiffs have a moderately pronounced stop (point at which the muzzle meets the forehead) and dark, V-shaped ears which hang close to the face. They have a flat back and highly set, low hanging tail. They are dignified and powerful in appearance. Coat: The Bullmastiff has a short-haired red, light tan (‘fawn’) or reddish-brown (‘brindle’) coat with a distinctive dark area on the muzzle and ears and around the eyes. Some white on the chest is permissible. Bullmastiffs shed little. charecter: The Bullmastiff is intelligent, loyal, obedient, and courageous. It builds a strong bond of devotion with its family. Bullmastiffs are highly protective of their family against any perceived threats, but they are much more likely to bowl over strangers than attack, which makes them desirable as guard dogs. They do, however, have a stubborn side which sometimes makes them resistant to obedience training. Some Bullmastiffs may drool or snore. Temperament: The Bullmastiff can be somewhat dominant toward other Bullmastiffs (males especially do not get along), but is very tolerant towards children and can get along with other household pets provided proper socialization has taken place, preferably when young. Though they would do no harm intentionally, Bullmastiffs should be watched around young children due to their immense size. Activity: The Bullmastiff only requires a moderate amount of exercise for its large size. It will be satisfied with a daily opportunity to run and play on a leash.

BREEDING YOUR DOG

2009-02-21T06:43:00.000-08:00

Siberian Husky

Breed Group: Working
Color(s): All colors from black to pure white Coat: The Siberian Husky has a medium length double coat. The under coat is dense and soft in texture. The outer coat is longer and coarse with straight guard hairs. Their coat comes in a variety of colors and patterns. The most common colors are black and white, gray and white, copper red and white, and pure white. The facial markings include masks and spectacles. Distinct feature: The Siberian Husky is a compact and strong working dogThey display a measure of dignity and reserve. The Siberian Husky is an amiable companion and willing worker. Temperament: The Siberian Husky has an affectionate, gentle, and friendly disposition. They are alert and eager to please. They are highly intelligent and have an independent spirit, which can sometimes be a challenge to their owner. This versatile breed gets along very well with children and other medium sized dogs. Activity: The Siberian Husky has an innate and deep desire to run. They do best with a large securely fenced yard.They make excellent walking and jogging companions provided they are very securely leashed and the climate is not too hot. The Husky is not recommended for apartment dwelling unless they are exceedingly well trained and sufficiently exercised.

2009-02-21T06:40:00.000-08:00

Rough Coolie

Breed Group: Herding Dog
Color(s): Sable and white Coat: Short, harsh and smooth with a dense undercoat. Distinct feature: Attentive, alert, loving, and smart as they still possess a strong herding instinct.it is a family pet. They are good watch dogs. Temperament: Rough and Smooth Collies are intelligent, gentile, social Activity: Regular walks or free exercise is necessary to keep a well balanced dog.

2009-02-21T06:37:00.000-08:00

Rottweiler

Breed Group: Working Weight: 59 kgs Height: 69 cms Color(s): black with tan markings Coat: The Rottweiler has an outer coat that is short, straight, dense and of medium length. The coat should always be coarse to the touch. The undercoat should be present around the neck and thighs. Coat should never be wavy or curly. The Rottweiler has one of the most noticeable coats with the distinct black and bright rust coloring along their legs, underbelly and muzzle. Distinct feature: The Rottweiler can be a very fun loving dog, however he is very powerful and can be serious at times. Early obedience training and socialization is a must. This breed can be very territorial and protective of their family and their environment. Rottweilers can be very intimidating, still retaining an undeserving reputation as a vicious and/or mean dog, however they do extremely well in a family environment. Temperament: The temperament of the Rottweiler can vary. Some can be very affectionate and somewhat of a clown, while others can be bullies. It is critical that this breed is socialized at an early age. Rottweilers can do well with children if raised around them, but should be supervised around small children due to their sheer size and power. The Rottweiler can do well around other dogs, however can be somewhat combative and can show aggression if not socialized properly as this is a very protective breed of both their family and their territory. Activity: The Rottweiler should have at least a large sized yard. They aren't really active indoors, so they need plenty of exercise outdoors, off lead preferably. This breed loves long walks and should have at least two long walks per day totaling at least two hours of exercise per day. Large Dog Breed Bull Mastiff .. English Mastiff ..French Mastiff.. Neopolitan Mastiff ..Great Dane.. St.BernardMedium Dog BreedAustralian Sheperd ..Beauceron..Belgium Shepherd.. Boxer..Chow Chow..Dalmatian..Dobermann.. German Shepherd..Golden Retriever..Grey Hound..Irish Setter..Labrador Retriever.. New foundland..Pointer.. Rajyapalam..Rottweiler.. Rough Coolie..Siberian Husky..SMALL DOG BREED Basset Hound..Beagle.. Bichon Fries..Bull Dog – English ..FrenchBull Terrier.. Chihuahua..Cocker Spaniel..Dachshund..Jack RusselTerrier..Lhasa Apso..Maltese.. Miniature Pinscher.. Pekingese..Pit Bullterrier..Pomeranian..Poodle..Pug..Samoyed..Scottish Terrier..Shih-Tzu..Tibetan Spaniel..Yorkshire Terrier..
BREEDING YOUR DOG

2009-02-21T06:28:00.000-08:00

Rajapalayam

Breed Group: Working The Rajapalayam is an Indian breed of dog. It was the companion of the royalty and aristocracy in Southern India, particularly in the town from where it gets its name. It is also known as the Paleiyakaran or Poligar Hound. Distinct feature: It is a large dog, usually measuring about 65-75 cm (25-30 inches) at the withers. It is a hound, and therefore should be kept in optimum working condition. It tends to be heavier boned than most sighthounds, but shares the depth of chest and basic body structure. Its facial structure is considerably different from that of, say a Caravan, as it is meant primarily for hunting wild boar. The tail has a slight curl. The most prized colour is milk white, with a pink nose and golden eyes. However, other colours including spotted or solid, black, and brown, are known to occur. In the past, puppies of colour were usually culled from the litters since the owners preferred the pure white dogs. The coat is short and fine. An extremely handsome and graceful dog, the Rajapalayam has a gait similar to the trotting of a thoroughbred hors Temperament: The Rajapalayam was used predominantly for hunting wild boar and as a formidable guard dog. It needs wide open spaces and is very affectionate and devoted towards its owner, although not always demonstrative. It does not like to be touched or handled by strangers, and tends to be a one-man or one-family dog.

2009-02-21T06:24:00.000-08:00

Pointer

Breed Group: Sporting Weight: 32 kgs Height: 67 cms Color(s): liver, lemon, black, orange, either solid or mixed with white Coat: The Pointer has a very short coat, which makes grooming a breeze. The coat should remain short, dense and smooth. The coat should also have a shiny appearance. Distinct feature: Friendly and energetic, this breed can also become very timid if not properly socialized at a young age. The Pointer can also prove difficult to train. As this breed has hunting instincts, it is not recommended for homes with small and passive animals. Temperament: A very even-tempered and alert dog that generally loves to be around people. This dog makes a wonderful companion, but is not recommended for the average home. The Pointer does best in a field environment, but will also do well in a regular home providing he has an experienced handler and sufficient exercise. Activity: The Pointer does best in a field environment and loves the outdoors. A very tireless breed, this dog requires extensive exercise or he can become destructive. Acreage is best.

2009-02-21T06:19:00.000-08:00

Newfoundland

Breed Group: Working
Color(s): solid black, brown, or gray, Coat: The Newfoundland has a water resistant double coat. The outer coat is coarse, flat, oily, and of medium length. The under coat is dense and soft in texture. The coat color is typically black, but may also be black with blue highlights, bronze, brown, or gray. Distinct feature: The Newfoundland is a sweet, elegant, and courageous breed. They are the embodiment of dignity and carry themselves in a stately and noble manner. The Newfoundland is a deeply devoted and extremely delightful companion. They are considered to be one of the friendliest breeds. Temperament: The New foundland is generous with love and affection. They are very sociable and friendly to visitors they know. They have a keen sense of responsibility and are excellent with children. They become so attached to their families that they cannot ever adapt to a new home or environment. They are generally good with other pets. This breed thrives on human companionship. They are gentle, heroic, and docile. Newfoundlands are extremely protective and will place themselves between their family and any danger that appears to be of a threatening nature. Activity: They enjoy and benefit from play sessions, daily walks, and swimming. They are relatively inactive indoors. The Newfie will do okay in an apartment or condominium dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise. They enjoy a run in a small fenced yard.

2009-02-21T06:15:00.000-08:00

Labrador Retriever

Breed Group: Sporting Weight: 34 kgs Height: 90 cms Color(s): solid black, yellow, or chocolate Coat: The Labrador Retriever is a double coat breed. The outer coat is straight, short, very dense, and hard in texture. The under coat is soft, weather-resistant, and protects this breed from cold, all types of ground cover, and water. The color of the coat comes in chocolate, black, and yellow. Distinct feature: The Labrador Retriever is medium in size, strong, athletic, and well balanced. They are friendly, outgoing, and possess an extremely sweet personality. This sporting breed is adept at hunting and retrieving. Labrador Retrievers are revered as companions and highly respected for their loving nature. Temperament: This breed is highly intelligent, loyal, and deeply devoted. The Labrador Retriever is reliable, affectionate, and thrive on human companionship and attention. They are absolutely wonderful with children and get along exceedingly well with other dogs. They may be reserved with strangers and make good watchdogs. Activity: Delightful, high-spirited, and energetic, the Labrador Retriever requires a great deal of exercise. They enjoy family play sessions, securely leashed walks, swimming, and a safely fenced yard to run and romp freely. This breed will do okay in an apartment dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise, attention, and stimulation.

2009-02-21T06:11:00.000-08:00

Irish Setter

Breed Group: Sporting
Color(s): mahogany or rich chestnut red Coat: A silky and feathered coat, this breed has a medium length coat. Distinct feature: Very lively, energetic, and impulsive. The Irish Setter loves to run. This breed should always be kept on a lead when outdoors as they have the tendency to run off and can be difficult to catch. Requires firm and consistent training. Temperament: The Irish Setter is affectionate, loving, and sensitive, this breed is not recommended for the average home. Being very active, they can become somewhat destructive if left alone for long periods. This breed requires entertainment if they are to be well mannered and respectful. Activity: The Irish Setter requires regular exercise. Three walks per day are recommended as this dog has the tendency to become restless. This breed is not for apartment life and does best with a medium to large sized yard, or great for the country environment.

2009-02-21T06:08:00.000-08:00

Grey Hound

Breed Group: Hounds Height: 27-30 inches Color(s): immaterial (includes black, gray, red, fawn, either solid or brindled, either whole colored or spotted) Coat: The Greyhound has a very short coat that does not require much grooming. The hair of this breed should be glossy, but not silky nor soft. It should be very firm and harsh to the touch, and also coarse. The hair should be close lying and tight. The coat of this breed is somewhat weather resistant so baths should be sparse. The coat of the Greyhound should remain smooth. Distinct feature: The Greyhound is very gentle and sensitive, and makes a wonderful companion to most children. This is also a very talented breed and does well in a number of sports including hunting, sighting, watchdogging, racing, and agility. The Greyhound is an extremely graceful dog that is petite, making him an exceptional running companion. This breed does very well in a home environment, but can also do well in kennel life, although he does crave human attention and desperately wants to be part of the family. Temperament: The Greyhound is an affectionate breed that loves to be around his family, including children. They make a wonderful family pet, however they do have a prey instinct and should not be in a home with smaller animals such as birds, cats, rabbits, or something of the sort. The Greyhound does extremely well with other dogs, however they get along best with their own kind and do very well with another Greyhound in the home. This breed does get along well with children but because he is so sensitive, this breed would do best in a home with older and more respectable children. Activity: The Greyhound loves to run and needs quite a bit of exercise on a daily basis. A fenced in yard is a must, and it should be at least of average size. Long walks are also necessary to keep this dog healthy and active. The Greyhound has the tendency to chase things because of his strong prey instinct, so he should always be kept on lead or in a safe and fenced in area or he will be sure to run off when he gets the chance. This breed should always have at least 2 hours of daily exercise per day, as he is very agile and fast.

2009-02-21T06:05:00.000-08:00

Golden Retriever

Breed Group: Sporting Weight: 36 kgs Height: 61 cms Color(s): various shades of gold Coat: The Golden Retriever has a double coat that is water repellent and weather resistant. The outer coat is firm, resilient, and can be wavy or straight. The tail and legs are feathered with longer hair. The under coat is dense and soft in texture. The coat color is rich, lustrous, and varies in shades of cream to gold. Distinct feature: The Golden Retriever is a gorgeous, large, and energetic breed. They are the world's foremost family pet and companion. They are sturdy, well proportioned, and are well known for their hunting capabilities on land and in the water. The Golden is perceptive and agile. Temperament: Golden Retrievers are loveable, polite, and highly intelligent. They exude charm and confidence. They are sweet, eager to please, and devoted family companions. They do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time or they will become mischievous and destructive. They have a tendency to be overly exuberant and distractible. They are always gentle and patient with children. They are friendly with other pets. In fact, they are friendly with everyone. They tend to bark as a form of greeting. Activity: The Golden Retriever requires daily exercise. They enjoy play sessions with their family, retrieving balls and other toys. They will do okay in an apartment dwelling provided they are sufficiently exercised. Golden Retrievers are moderately active indoors and does best with a medium to large sized securely fenced yard.

2009-02-21T05:50:00.000-08:00

German Shepherd

Breed Group: Herding Weight: 37 kgs Height: 65 cms Color(s): most colors, other than white, are permissible. Coat: The German Shepherd is a double coat breed. The outer coat is harsh, straight, and thick. The under coat is dense and soft. The coat comes in a variety of colors such as black and tan, black and cream, black and silver, solid black, and sable. Distinct feature: The German Shepherd is a breed of classic beauty and possesses superior intelligence. They are highly adaptable, energetic, curious, strong, and dependable. This breed displays a magnificent appearance and is extremely agile with great stamina and endurance. Temperament: A member of the herding group, the German Shepherd is fearless, bold, hard working, and alert. They are esteemed for their loyalty, deep devotion, and courage. This breed thrives on human interaction from their family and does not like to be left alone for extended periods of time. German Shepherds are exceptionally wary of strangers. They will most generally get along with other household pets they have been raised with. This breed will attempt to perform the task of herding on anything and everything that moves. Activity: This breed is happiest when given a job to do. They require strenuous exercise and enjoy securely leashed walks, family play sessions, and a large safely fenced area to romp and run freely in. The German Shepherd will do okay in an apartment or condominium dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise, stimulation, and attention.

2009-02-21T05:47:00.000-08:00

Doberman

Breed Group: Working Weight: 33 kgs Height: 69 cms Color(s): black, red, blue, and fawn, all with tan markings Coat: The coat of the Doberman Pinscher is thick, smooth, short, hard, and close-fitting. The color of the coat comes in fawn, red, blue, black and tank, and black. There are typically rust colored markings above the eyes, on the muzzle, throat, legs, feet, chest, and below the tail. Character: Muscular, elegant, and graceful, the Doberman Pinscher is medium to large in size. This breed is courageous, resourceful, bold, and highly intelligent. They are one of the most respected and popular dog breeds; known for their deep devotion and protective nature. Temperament: Versatile, fearless, and assertive, the Doberman Pinscher thrives on human companionship and stimulation. They are exceedingly loyal and protective of their family and home. This breed does best with older, well-behaved, and considerate children. They do not typically get along well with other household pets. They are aloof and reserved with strangers and make excellent guard dogs. This people oriented breed may closely bond to one particular family member. Activity: Highly energetic, Doberman Pinschers require daily extensive exercise and stimulation. They enjoy family play sessions and make wonderful walking companions. This breed will do okay in an apartment provided they are sufficiently exercised. However, a securely fenced yard is best for romping and running freely.

2009-02-21T05:44:00.000-08:00

Dalmatian

Breed Group: Non-Sporting Weight: 32 kgs Height: 61 cms Color(s): black spots on white background; spots should be round, well defined, and preferably separated. Dalmatians are born white and develop spots Coat: The Dalmatian has a hard, smooth, short and dense coat. The color of the coat is pure white with spots that are either black or liver. Puppies are born completely white and spots develop as they mature. Distinct feature: Dalmatians are of medium size and are extremely active and energetic. They are bold, unique, and are known as the clowns of the dog world. This is a versatile breed that possesses the ability to work as a vermin hunter, hound, guard dog, and circus performer as well as being a loyal companion. Temperament: The Dalmatian is exceedingly social and thrives on human companionship and attention. They are extremely sensitive and do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time. They will typically get along with household pets they have been raised with, but display aggression to dogs they do not know. This breed is aloof with strangers and makes an excellent watchdog; only barking when absolutely necessary. Activity: The Dalmatian must have daily frequent exercise. They enjoy participating in family activities and play sessions. Quality time spent with their family is extremely important to this breed. With their high degree of endurance, the Dalmatian makes an excellent walking, jogging, and hiking companion. This breed does best with a securely fenced yard they can romp and run in. Dalmatians are not recommended for apartment dwelling unless it is possible for them to receive a walk or run several times a day.

2009-02-21T05:41:00.000-08:00

Chow Chow

Breed Group: Non-Sporting Weight:40 kgs Height: 56 cms Color(s): solid red, black, blue, cinnamon, and cream Coat: The Chow Chow has an abundant and profuse double coat that comes in two different varieties: smooth or rough. The fur is particularly thick around the neck area and resembles a lion's mane. The outer coat is coarse and is supported by a dense under coat. The most common coat colors are red, black, blue, tan, and gray. They are never parti-colored. Distinct feature: The Chow Chow is a true masterpiece of dignity and beauty. They possess the unique characteristic of having a blue-black tongue. They are keenly intelligent, have an independent spirit, and display a dignified demeanor. Temperament: The Chow Chow is most generally polite and patient. They are very loyal and friendly with their family, but exceedingly reserved with strangers. They most often will become attached and overly protective of one particular member of the family. Activity: They prefer to stay indoors where they are relatively inactive. They enjoy a small securely fenced yard, but cannot remain outside for extended periods of time in hot weather. They benefit from short daily walks. The Chow is well suited for apartment dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise.