Internationally acclaimed astrologer Bejan Daruwalla believes this chance factor can be considerably reduced by applying the scientific principles of astrology in corporate management, particularly in the realm of human resources development. Daruwalla, however, laments the lack of interest in Indiawith respect to the research and development of astrology. ``The West will beat us at our own game if we don't catch up with the research in astrology that is taking place in countries like the US,'' he says.

``In India, we are content with the understanding of the influence of astrology on human relationships. There is no effort to develop the application of astrological sciences on corporate life,'' he says.

Daruwalla describes astrology as ``an intuitive leap from the known to the unknown''. However, the pathway to the unknown can be taught to interested groups with the aid of audio-visual aids, as is done in certain institutions abroad, he says.

In the world of finance, Taureans are a natural choice for leadership and initiative, he says. As for the revival of the financial sector, Daruwalla says that ``Between June 28 and October 23 this year, both Saturn, a constricting factor, and Jupiter, the money planet, will stay in Taurus. So, astronomically speaking, this period will mark a certainfinancial buoyancy in the country.'' This should please all those management graduates who are seeking a career in the financial sector.

According to him, the Indian market itself will improve ``when Jupiter enters Cancer. This will happen between 14 July 2001 and 1 August 2002.'' ``India is ruled by Capricorn, which is right opposite Cancer. During July 2001 and August 2002, Jupiter, the money planet, will directly look at Capricorn, which will be beneficial for the country,'' he says. This boom phase will see a high rate of job creation exercises as well, he says.``Till 1998, India was under the influence of outer planets Neptune, the planet of illusion, and Uranus. Their negative influence were responsible for the economic slowdown in India,'' he says. ``Capricorn is now free of this influence,'' he adds.

Daruwalla also describes the astrological make-up of leaders in society. ``Leaders are born, not made. When the energy of Mars, the charm of Venus, the hypocrisy of Neptune and the dexterity ofMercury converge in one person, he is destined to be a leader.'' ``Of course, Saturn will have to play the stabiliser role,'' he adds.

Daruwalla says that stars can also determine the aptitude of professionals. ``Strong Mars and strong Mercury are ideal for engineers. Spiritual leaders have a strong Jupiter. Film stars are governed by a good Neptune and good Venus,'' he says. ``Mercury for intelligence, Jupiter for intuitive powers,'' he says.

Daruwalla believes that individual traits of zodiac signs may be found useful in the selection of persons for specific jobs. He lists the traits in his recent book, 1999 Annual Horoscope, published by Hind Pocket Books. The traits are as follows: