"As part of our CTV indigenisation programme we contemplate to put up such units in the country. It can either be wholly owned by the company or with a joint venture partner. We are also planning to export critical components to developed countries at a later stage," company vice-president (marketing & sales) Rajeev Karwal said.

LG aims to achieve 80 per cent indigenisation level within the next two years, he said. At present, it stands at around 60 per cent. It sources key components like tuners from Onida.

In addition to the component facilities, the company has also decided to set up air conditioner and microwave oven units by next year. LG has set aside around $289 million for undertaking expansion plans over a period of fiveyears to seven years in the country. To part finance the project, the company is planning its maiden public issue by 2002.

"We will dilute 25 per cent in favour of the public. Rest of the funds will come from equity," Karwal said.

Next year the company will have exports, for which the internal target has been set at $100 million. The Korean electronic giant is eyeing the Saarc region for a substantial growth in the sector. The products exported will carry `LG Made in India' brand names, Karwal said.

The company also plans to start manufacture of computer monitors at its Noida facility. It has already earmarked funds for this facility and production is expected to start early next year.

Giving thrust to rural marketing, the company has conducted extensive rural market research and plans to unveil mobile vans in these areas. The mobile vans will help the customers to know about the company brands and the various service-oriented programmes. LG also plans to extend its existing air conditioner range thisyear.

Two new models of window ACs, one new model in split ACs and a package AC are on the anvil. The package AC will have features like plasma air purifying system, cooling and heating options, soft dry operation, wire less remote control, anti-bacteria filter and auto swing.