Alcatel, EDS plan software center in Tamil Nadu: Global information technology majors Alcatel and EDS (formerly electronic data systems) propose to set up software development centres in Tamil Nadu, the state government announced on Friday. The two multinationals have shown willingness to occupy 1.25 lakh sq ft space between them at the Rs 290-crore Tidel Infotech Park, being promoted by the state government. A number of other global companies are also expected to pick up space at the upcoming park which would have a total built-up area of 12 lakh sq ft.

NTPC chief Rajinder Singh bags award: The National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) chairman Rajinder Singh has won the Standing Conference of Public Enterprises' (Scope) `Scope award for excellence and contribution to public sector management' for the year 1996-97. The committee of jury under the chairmanship of justice PN Bhagwati met here on August 20 and unanimously decided Singh's name for the award, a Scope release said here on Friday. The award carries a cash amount of rs one lakh, a gold plaque and a citation.

Praxair Inc technology: Praxair Inc, has announced a project for testing an oxygen-based technology that could significantly lower coke consumption and improve the environmental performance of steel blast furnaces. The technology will be used across the world with particular benefit to the Indian steel manufacturers, who are focussing on this core competency. The $3-million, two-year, patent-pending project, when commercialised, is estimated to cut coke requirements by 10 per cent to 15 per cent and potentially lower greenhouse gas emissions in the US from coke-and iron-making by up to 700,000 tons per year. Steel mills using the technology are expected to increase their oxygen intake by nearly 15 per cent.

Kalpana Enterprises markets Indonesian plywood: The Bangalore-based Kalpana Enterprises has started marketing the world famous Indonesian plywood `Korindo.' The Indonesian company Korindo in association with Agarwal Exports (India) is introducing a hot and copper chrome treated plywood which has resistance against termite, rot, fungus and other wood destroying organisum. Made of 10 per cent hardwood for longer life its face veneer is three times thicker than normal Indian material. Its strong load bearing capacity and resistance to natural wear and tear makes it ideal for use in concrete shuttering, external walling, floring, roofing, tourist huts, bus stands and milk booths.

JT Mobiles adds new tower: JT Mobiles has added a new tower in Bangalore at Chickpet. According to a release Chickpet the commercial capital of Bangalore has an enormous potential and the company has found a rapid growth in its customer base from this area. Customers will be able to enjoy indoor coverage and an excellent outdoor coverage from the surrounding areas of Avenue Road, Nagarathpet, BVK Iyengar Road.