National Economic Events in September 2000

Union Cabinet decides to end VSNL monopoly on international traffic by 2002 instead of 2004 proposed earlier.

India signs agreement with U.S. on power projects during Prime Minister's visit to Washington.

Notification issued lifting the ban on sale of non-iodised salt.

Microsoft and Infosys Technologies enter into a global alliance, says visiting chief of Microsoft Bill Gates. Wipro to strengthen ties with Microsoft. Gates promises $5 m grant for rural IT drive.

ADR, GDR-linked employee stock option plan (ESOP) allowed for knowledge-based sectors. Benefit hitherto restricted to information technology and software.

Oil companies increase prices of petroleum products while import duty on crude is cut to 10 per cent from 15 per cent.