MISSION INDIA: VIRGIN GROUP

Today when we (Indian economy) are rocking we can dream of anything, same feeling is there with FDI’s also. Our policy makers opened our economy in early 90’s but partially that very well but now when all FDIs (business giants) are eagerly wish to join mission India but our government keeps tight restrictions on foreign direct investment in areas like retail, insurance and banking, and caps foreign participation in telecommunications at 74 per cent, which are really booming and have highly potential sector of country.

A well known, most respected and highly creative U.K group is going to join mission India that’s “VIRGIN GROUP”..

This time when jolly business leader Mr. Branson came to India he was in unbelievable style he used horse and wore bridegroom dress and joined the wedding (anniversary of FM 104) in imperial hotel.

According to chairman of virgin group Mr. Richard Branson, Virgin group is planning to enter into aviation, telecom, infrastructure, fm radio, BPO & IT industry but in one of his interview he said that: "You feel as a business person quite unwelcome in trying to bring your money to India and trying to make a difference in India,".

With the success of FM 104 across India, group entered into the most vibrant telecom sector of the country and tied-up with TATA teleservices for its mobiles. Group is expected to bring in its wealth of experience in telecom marketing and technology through its branded handsets because this sector is fastest growing sector across the world but customers are frustrating from poor service and facilities, while virgin group believe in philosophy of head on competition and customer’s wellbeing.

Group tried to obtain permission for a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) license here (india) to buy mobile telecom capacity in bulk and retail it with attractive branding. However, Indian authorities have not allowed MVNO system till now.

Domestic Airlines Plans:

In India domestic airline passenger traffic grew 36.7 per cent in the first nine months of 2007 from a year earlier. Mainly domestic airlines have posted losses due to heavy initial investments and competition on fares, but according to one report on domestic aviation industry, the trend to reverse in 2008 helped by consolidation and better capacity utilization.

"With a middle class population of 300 million, India offers a huge potential for domestic airlines. Many foreign players are willing to enter into this sector and VIRGIN group is main contender in this line and company officials said that: "We'd love the right to fly domestic in India, but the market is currently protected. If the market opened up, you will find Virgin competing alongside local carriers,".

Airport development Plan:

Company also wishes to invest in airport infrastructure development of country mainly in metros like Mumbai, Delhi etc.

If we look at the eagerness of corporate giants of world to join mission India, there is huge opportunity for employment, infrastructure development and economic development of country. So I think if the governments can be brave and get rid of these laws, the Indian economy will grow even quicker and the Indian consumer will benefit enormously.