Videsh Sanchar Nigam freezes new Net connections; pins blame on MTNL, DoT
The state-owned Videsh Sanchar Nigam (VSNL), the country's sole Internet service-provider, has temporararily frozen fresh Net connections. The freeze, which has been effective for the past one week, is likely to continue for the next two weeks as well.

IPCL mulls alliance with Indian Oil for petrochemicals complex at Panipat
The Indian Petrochemicals Corporation (IPCL) is exploring the option of teaming up with Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) in setting up a petrochemicals complex in Panipat. IOC has recently commissioned its six-million tonne refinery in Panipat and has indicated its intention of setting up a joint venture for paraxylenes there.

Fiat set to storm local financial services, insurance sectors
The $50-billion Fiat group has decided to enter the financial services and insurance sectors in India. To start with, Fidis, Fiat's financiang arm, plans to set up a subsidiary with an Indian partner to handle car retail financing activities.

CORPORATE
Hindustan Copper sees turnaround in 3 years
AFC to raise share capital to Rs 25 crore

ECONOMY
Panel set up to work out uniform taxation policy for states
Centre unveils policy to regulate data outflow

EXPRESSIONS
Recover power cost
Sealand makes scrap ship seaworthy at a cost of Rs 4 crore

MARKETS
FMC delay brings back illegal cotton futures
Nymex to launch Asian oil trading in 1999

LEISURE
Fiat to unveil complete range of Palio vehicles next year
Puja on the Net is a click away