MUMBAI: As India gears up for the annual Union Budget, BBC World, the BBC's international 24-hour news and information channel launches its special programming on the Indian Budget 2007, giving in-depth analysis and insights into various issues concerning the subject. There will be daily updates and discussions on World Business Report as well as Asia Business Report, and Asia Today beginning on 26 February.
BBC World's Business Correspondent for India Karishma Vaswani, says, "As an international news channel, BBC World reports on the most relevant events and from across the world. As India makes it's presence felt on the world map, the annual budget will affect not only our audiences in India, but worldwide. BBC World will bring its viewers the latest updates on the 2007 Indian budget along with in-depth analysis and international perspective with financial experts from around the globe."
The major highlights of the programs are as follows:
Monday, 26 February: The first day of the budget series will cover the most topical discussion, on inflation. BBC World speaks to financial experts and the average person on the street, who will discuss inflation and its effect on the common person in India. BBC World will debate whether inflation rates will remain at the current percentage and the effect of rising global interest rates on local investment.
Tuesday, 27 February: An exclusive interview with Alan Rosling, executive director of Tata Sons, who has played a pivotal role as foreign investor to India in the past. The episode will witness him share his views on the current needs of foreign firms and the expectations of Indian companies from this budget.
Wednesday, 28 February: On the first day of the budget session, BBC World will focus on the expectations of various sections of the Indian society. From the manufacturing firms hoping for reduced import duties, to new funding ideas for entrepreneurs and issues related to income tax and a better living for the average Indian.
Thursday, 1 March: A post-budget wrap up, BBC World will give a crisp and precise summary of the Union Budget 2007 along with comment and analysis.
Friday, 2 March: BBC World will close its budget special with interviews of well known entrepreneurs and corporate personalities, who will share their views on the new budget.
