Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Starting A Home Business Jobs

Being self-employed often sounds exciting. The thought of not having to work for anyone else and being able to enjoy your freedom is appealing. Those who decide to take this route soon find out that this is often not the case and realize that they will actually be working long, hard hours for a few years as they try to get their business on its feet. The difference in being self-employed is that everything rests on your shoulders. When you were working for someone else, you had to deal with things you probably did not want to but the entire weight of the financial success of the company was not your concern - now it is.

In this article, we will look at some types of businesses that you can have at home. If you are a pet lover then consider a pet-based business from home . You may be one of those individuals that animals of all kinds are drawn to and if so this type of business is perfectly suited for you. A pet-business can involve everything from pet sitting to walking, training pet and providing supplies and toys to the pet owners. More than 60 million American homes have pets and that is a huge market for a home based business on any level. Most pet owners will spoil the beloved animals with anything that they find is cute, fun and practical.

Home improvement is an excellent business opportunity, as homeowners will pay to have items removed from their residence as well as fixing up much needed repairs. This is an excellent source of income for the person who is good at fixing things and loves to clean and clear items from one place to another. During the warmer seasons, this is a great way to make extra income. Obviously you cannot do this type of business with a car. You will need a pick-up of some type or any vehicle that is capable of carrying away variety of items.

If you are good at typing and have knowledge of how to work with computer, you may want to consider medical transcription. Transcription can be done at home and if you do not have medical knowledge you can brush up on medical terminology or even through taking a quick course at your community college or any other institution.

This is a demand that will not slow down anytime soon. Doctor's offices, dentists and even veterinarians all need someone to transcribe their records. If you are good at typing and familiar with Word documents and formatting this is a good choice for you.Home-based jobs are becoming very popular for many families who are looking to increase their income but not necessarily work outside of the home.

How to Build a List for Home Based Internet Businesses

Make your promotional materials interesting and fun will help your home based internet business. Try to use a little creativity but not too over artsy. Build around what your product or service is about. For example; if you are selling car parts, put some pictures of what is new in the auto parts world, a new wing door possibly that can fit any car and make it look like a Lamborghini. Try to research what people are looking for, these way, you stay one step ahead of them all the time and you will be their bearer of new tidings.

They will be eager to receive what you are sending them because they new you always have fresh and new things to share with them. Write good articles that can be very informational but light at the same time. If your subscribers enjoy your articles, they will go to your site by clicking the links that you will be putting on your newsletter to read some more. You can provide articles that can connect to many people. Be diverse in your articles. Put something humorous, then put something informational, then put something that has both.Are you wary about this because you don’t like writing?

No problem, there are many professional and experienced article writers that can do the job for you for minimal fees. They know what they are doing and can provide the need that you have for your newsletters, the money that you pay for your articles are going to be met by the many sign-ups and the potential profit from the sales that you will get.Create and send an E-book to your customers about anything that is related to your business or site. Use your knowledge and expertise in the field you have chosen to help other people who are similarly interested. Offer this e-book for free.

You can write about anything informational and helpful to your subscribers. For example; you can do manuals and guides in so many things. This e-book could be used as a reference for many people. A good example of this is the New ebook just launched called the Wealth Magnet System Success Guide. The link to the guide is in the resource box below.Share this e-book with everyone, even other sites; just make sure that they don’t change the links in the e-book that will lead people to your site.

If you want, you can always get some people to write it for you just like your articles. Your investment once again will be covered by the great marketing this will generate. Add e-coupons in your newsletters that will help them avail to special discounts. Put a control number in your e-coupon so that they can only be used once.

When people get discounts that can be found in your newsletters, they will be eager to receive your newsletter in anticipation of what you are promoting next.If your subscribers can get benefits from your newsletters, they will be very eager to receive them. Just don’t flood your mailing list with mails so that you don’t annoy your subscribers.

Finding Internet Typing Jobs

If you are a typist with time on your hands and if you are eager to bring yourself some added cash, then you might want to find Internet typing jobs. What are internet typing jobs? These are typing jobs that are posted on the internet. One way to find a list of the websites that carry such jobs is to go to ask.com. If you do that, then you might soon find yourself visiting the website freewebs.com. That particular website indicates that there is a real demand for typists who will take on the various internet typing jobs. The following paragraphs provide details on some of those jobs.

If you have ever been stopped by someone in the mall or if you have been asked to take a telephone survey then you are familiar with one important internet typing job. You are also familiar with the basic method for market research. Companies depend on market research to learn what the consumer wants. The volume of information obtained from such research needs to be typed into a report. Some internet writing jobs call for a typist who knows how to type up such reports.

Once companies determine what interests their customers, then they want to communicate with their customers. Many companies do that by using newsletters sent to each customer's e-mail address. The companies seldom ask a company secretary to type up such newsletters. They tend to enter their request for a newsletter typist among the many posted internet writing jobs.
The list of internet typing jobs goes on and on. Some companies need a typist to help with the printing of ads. Some companies desire typists who will supply them with well-typed welcome e-mails. These are sent to those customers who sign up for the company's newsletter.

Other companies seem more interested in finding someone to type up information lists.
Information lists are not the only sort of list that company administrators want to see. Such administrators also want access to mailing lists, i.e. the list of customers who are receiving either the company newsletter or the company catalogue. Sometimes the administrators want a list of ordered items. Typed lists of software orders are a frequent need among company administrators.

Typed lists of any kind supply the company administrators with valuable information. While the customers are studying the company website to obtain information about the company's products, the company administrators are studying the many typed lists. If the available lists fail to supply the necessary information, then those administrators are apt to seek funds for more internet typing jobs.

Typing, like writing, is vital to the creation of an online presence. Accurate typing insures the delivery of easy to read and adequate information. Good writing adds color and interest to that information.

Make Money Over Internet

The Internet has provided us next to numerous new ways of making a living, but for every legal new chance, there are likely two opportunities that are plausible. I understand what I'm speaking about here. I create cash on the Web, and possess information on the Internet to advocate my revenue for more than a season now. But before I regularly came across a way to create cash upon demand, I came across numerous failed leads and untrue promises, and a few risky attempts to hijack my identity and knowledge as well.

The Internet provides a one of a kind chance for those of us who are insightful, adequate writers, but maybe a bit socially clumsy. The possibility of producing cash online can appear to be a day-dream to many. In my daily existence, I get to make money online without even departing my residence, and that is just absolutely fantastic! But there are myriad myths of people's attempts to build success on the net alongside well less pleasing endings. It is thoroughly conventional for men and women to be ripped off by untrustworthy con artists who employ them to produce money over the Internet, and beforehand decline to pay.

Infrequent, but immensely worse, are those out and out criminals who try to be hiring you, but are absolutely even-handed out there to troll for individual knowledge. These men and women can destroy your being, and that is no pun!If you desire to create money over the Internet, you should acquire numerous basic precautions. If whatever make money on Internet job you are offered does not make sense to you, you have to analysis it or ask questions.

If it cannot be explained to your contentment why it is in their interests to pay you, there is likely numerous kind of ripoff deceptions implicated. Jobs that promise to support you to create currency above the Internet, but command you to create assorted kind of investment first, are even extra risky. You ought not ever in any case invest in different monetary task unless you maintain accurately and meticulously researched every point of view of it!

This above researching the company, meeting a representative of the company, and ensuring that you desire not be ripped off. No substance how agreeable the bid is, you cannot create money upon Internet by someone who refuses to meet you face to face. If you try to, your efforts at making additional money will no doubt create an outcome in you losing vast amounts of money.

Old Job – Blue Collar, New Job – Home Based Business

Job security, Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow... Will your good job last – or do you believe that you will find a good job that will last for years to come. You’ve read about job growth and new jobs, but what about the jobs that are being lost. The new jobs are mostly lumped into a "service industry" category and that means working in sectors like retail or customer service. These service industry jobs are mostly entry level and unreliable in the amount of hours worked. They also pay a whole lot less than the old manufacturing jobs. Oh, by the way we just had a minimum wage increase up to $5.85 in July… That will put steaks on the table!!The stereotypical laid-off blue-collar worker has a lot of company these days. In 2002, the technology sector dumped over 150,000 jobs in the software sector alone.

Intel has cut over 10,000 jobs in the last year. The housing market continues its downward slide and the latest projections are that it will last at least another year, well into 2008. The “Big Three”, Ford, GM and Chrysler, just recently announced a 20 – 25% drop in sales and the list goes on and on.High tech jobs have been touted by politicians as the future for American workers, but is it a secure future? Those secure jobs from the 70’s, 80’s and even 90’s, when you could count on a company being around and taking care of you are all but gone. Oh, by the way, white-collar workers are feeling the pinch too.

The first step toward job security today is getting information about starting your own home-based business; weather full time or part time it will provide extra income for you and your family.An internet home based business is one of the best small business opportunities available today. Internet access and a telephone are all that you need to start a successful business, and our team of trained professionals will educate you and help guide you down the path to success. You can bring change to an uncertain future and begin to look forward to the lifestyle you always hoped for, with a home based business opportunity.

Extra income and extra time freedom are the end result.Stop worrying, instead, take the first step towards securing your financial future. If you are ready to earn extra income or generate a substantial income right away you can contact Passive Millions to improve your security and financial success.Can you live debt free and save for your future? Do you need to have a full time income and have job security? Our unique home-based business opportunity can open the door to meeting the needs of you and your family and allow you to earn money from home.

Take control of your future and start earning that extra needed income today! You can control your own destiny with a work from home internet job opportunity.So, if you are interested in learning more about our unique home based business and want the job security you deserve in life, contact us now and take that first step in securing your future! As Always, God Bless and Always Remember To Make It A Great Day!!

How to Find a Job Online

The Internet offers a range of information on job vacancies. All you have to do is post your resume on the job sites and sit back to get interview calls from employers. The biggest advantage is that you can actively search for jobs and apply with a single click. It’s easy to find employment through the internet. This article explains how to find a job through Internet job sites. All you need to do is enter your job position keyword and your location and a wide range of jobs fitting your qualifications will pop up. Job hunting can be tedious if you do it through the newspaper ad and written application route.

The major job sites have the functionality in place to upload your detailed resume. When employers need a candidate for a job they visit and search these resumes. If they find that your resume fits their expectation they contact you by email. In online resumes you have to fill out the following sections relating to your resume. · Your academic qualifications· Your profession-related qualifications· Your work experience· References and recommendationsOnce you enter your resume in the site, all you need for applying for a job and make multiple submissions of resumes is a single click.

Here are some of the online job search engines:SimplyHired.comThis job website searches thousands of job boards, classifieds, and company web sites. Advanced search options include job type, company type, keyword, location and the date the job was posted. Indeed.comThis website includes job listings from thousands of web sites including major job bulletin boards, big newspapers, and hundreds of associations and company career pages. Advanced search options are also available, including searching by company name, job title, or maximum commuting distance. JobsterIn this site you can perform search for jobs posted by location (city, state, zip), keyword, vicinity, and best job match.

Advanced search alternatives include: state, city, radius from a city, date posted, and multiple keywords or a phrase. JustPosted.com This website also searches the web for job postings. Employment seekers can search by position title, city and state. Matching job leads are returned instantly via browser or email.G2bux.comThis website has a unique functionality. It charges the recruiter a fee and passes on half of what it earns to the job seeker. It also has detailed search interface to choose the right candidate apart from the basic functionalities that most of the sites offer.Monster.comMonster is a multi-country job site.

It has branches in almost all major countries in the world. So, if you are looking for employment in a country other than yours, this is the site for you.Job-hunting on the Internet allows you the freedom to go beyond your local job search or graduate career options. All sorts of jobs from all over the world are posted here and are just a mouse click away.You can also save time filling out paper applications and mailing your CV by snail mail. With online job sites, employers also have the choice of receiving multiple applications and calling a wide range of candidates for interviews.

Internet Sales Jobs

Have you ever had a sales job? How about internet sales jobs? Both of these jobs involve selling something, but they are completely different due to the method you are selling the product. I use to work in a sales job all throughout college and into my professional corporate career. I sold a service to customers all across the Untied States. The company I worked for was a global company and I talked to people over the phone over 3000 miles away trying to get their business.

Day in and day out I was stressed; my boss was all over me trying to make sure I reached my sales quota. I was constantly being pushed to the limit and the hours were horrible. I worked around the clock getting paid nearly minimum wage because my paycheck relied heavily on my sales. It was a tough business selling over the phone, I couldn't imagine face to face. I was beginning to not enjoy life and quickly looked for an alternative. With a little research, I found some internet sales jobs that really received my interest.

These may have been sales jobs, but for 1 it was a real work at home job, and for 2 you are your own boss.Now I am sure your thinking to yourself, man it would be so great to be my own boss. I thought the same thing after all the idiot manager/supervisors I have worked for. Some of them had no business being in that type of position. With so many idiot supervisors and working a dead end sales job, I decided it was time to focus on internet marketing. Now there was an internet marketing course available to help guide me the way, and thank god I went that route.

I would have been lost without it. Internet jobs at home are hard to come by, but finding the right one will lead you to success. I highly recommend finding one that you enjoy and make lots of money. Do not get stuck in a dead end sales job which I was stuck in.I started my affiliate marketing network career in no time. I was selling products but it was all online and not to people over the phone. It was a relief and an adventure at the same time. It was fun trying to find a new affiliate marketing product.

With the right affiliate marketing strategies you can take yourself to over 10K a month in no time just like I did. We aren't talking about internet online surveys jobs which are complete scams; we are talking about affiliate marketing. Affiliate marketing is extremely profitable and is here to stay for a very long time.

Home Internet Job Options

Working at home was once upon a time thought to be a boring and odd or horrible thing to endure. However, with life and society being busier than ever, working at home is one thing that is admired today.
If most of us people can find a way to work at home, we will do it. In fact, it can really help you cut down on the costs of daycare and other work related expenses as well as frustrations and hazards. Take a look at these careers and see if you can see how they can easily be at home internet job options for those of you who really want to work at home.
Writing
If you are skilled, even just a little skilled at writing, or have writing experience you can easily find opportunities to work from home. At home internet jobs in writing are abundant. You can choose to write for Internet content or you can use the internet to find other writing gigs and write for them in your own life experience and education specialities areas.
Writing is something that doesn't need to be done offsite in an office. In fact, some of the most creative writers do so from the comfort of their own couch, using only their laptops as their tools. Many find inspiration for specific writing jobs when routinely walking their dog or spending time with their spouses. So, if you are interested in writing, you can make it a full time career by working at home on the Internet.
Data Entry
If you really can't write well, but you have office experience with computers, you will find that many companies are now hiring their data entry experts to work offsite at their own home offices. It saves the companies money when they allow their employees to work offsite.
They don't typically offer them insurance and they don't have to find space to place them within their own buildings. They don't have to stand over and watch them. Therefore, it is beneficial to both the employees as well as the companies. You can find at home internet job opportunities in the data entry field easily through searching on the internet or help wanted columns in newspapers.
Customer Support
Just like data entry, many major companies are allowing their customer support specialists to work from their home offices. If you think you have what it takes to be a customer support expert, you can search for jobs that allow you to work from home. Being an at home customer support specialist is likely not as flexible as being an at home writer or data entry clerk however.
Most of the customer support specialists have to keep specific hours. However, it is an at home internet job that can be appealing to many workers. Many people don't like being contacted at strict hours so your openings here are bigger. You still get your personal peace and joy and satisfaction of being by yourself or with your family and pets, working from home, and you will quickly get used to the calls coming at specific hours.
So, if you really want to find an at home internet job, simply look at the off site jobs in your local classified ads. You can also search the web for off site opportunities. Be sure you only work with the most professional companies however.
Working offsite is wonderful, but if you get involved in a scam, you might not get paid and will likely not know how to find out why. You can avoid scams, virtually altogether, if you do due diligence and check out any company offering you work before you start with them.

Is There a Difference Between Internet Jobs and an Internet Business

Many people want Internet Jobs that will allow them to stay home and work. It is only natural to look towards the World Wide Web as a way to do that. This could lead to finding another job or starting your own Internet business. Is there a difference between an Internet ventures versus a traditional brick and mortar type business? Read on!

A job is defined many different ways, but a common definition is an individual task or activity that an employee does within their occupation. A business is defined as an organization operated with the objective of making a profit from the sale of goods or services.

The Internet is making it possible to do both. People who provide a service can stay at home and do it on the Internet. Many times they turn that into a business. Building websites for people could be done on a job-to-job basis.

After awhile you can be maintaining those websites and getting paid to do it. The more of a customer base you build the more Internet opportunities you are likely to develop. In essence you took a job and turned it into a business.

Many people would rather have an Internet job than they would a business. A job implies doing it and you are done. A business means a long-term commitment. For example you could be hired to blog for a company. They pay you by the post. If you like doing that you could expand into blogging for other Internet businesses and turn it into a business of your own.

The common component is using the Internet to make money anyway you choose and give you the freedom to manage your own time clock. Now people stay and home and make money with nothing more than their computer and the Internet. Depending on what you do you many need some skills to do certain Internet jobs.

For sure you need to be able to type. You may need to be comfortable with various Microsoft programs such as excel and word. You probably will be sending and receiving email and will have to be adept at email programs such as Outlook Express, or Gmail.Some people will work at home on the Internet at the convenience of their employer. This is great if you do not like to commute. Still others will find Internet jobs on websites like TJobs.com or eLance.com.

You could be an employee or self-employed depending on the situation.No matter how you do it, Internet jobs and Internet businesses offer a tremendous amount of benefits for the person who wants to stay at home and work online. A key point is to find something that interests you, something that you have a passion for and makes you want to learn more about it. It’s these types of “jobs” that will tend to carry us on for a long time to come and feels more satisfying in the end.

Bliss Box -Packaging

However, the RSC has relatively low stacking strength and therefore must be used with produce, such as potatoes, that can carry some of the stacking load. The FTC, actually one container inside another, is used when greater stack- ing strength and resistance to bulging is required. A third type of container is the Bliss box, which is — constructed from three separate pieces of corrugated fiberboard.

The Bliss box was developed to be used when maximum stacking strength is required. The bottoms and tops of all three types of containers may be closed by glue, staples, or interlocking slots. Almost all corrugated fiberboard containers are shipped to the packer flat and assembled at the packing house. To conserve space, assembly is usually performed just before use. Assembly may be by hand, machine, or a combination of both. Ease of assembly should be carefully investigated when considering a particular style of package. In recent years, large double-wall or even triple- wall corrugated fiberboard containers have increasingly been used as one-way pallet bins to ship bulk produce to processors and retailers.

Cabbage, melons, potatoes, pumpkins, and citrus have all been shipped successfully in these containers. The container cost per pound of produce is as little as one fourth of traditional size containers. Some bulk containers may be collapsed and re-used. For many years, labels were printed on heavy paper and glued or stapled to the produce package. The high cost of materials and labor has all but eliminated this practice. The ability to print the brand, size, and grade information directly on the container is one of the greatest benefits of corrugated fiberboard containers.

There are basically two methods used to print corrugated fiberboard containers: Post Printed. When the liner is printed after the corrugated fiberboard has been formed, the process is known as post printing. Post printing is the most widely used printing method for corrugated fiberboard containers because it is economical and may be used for small press runs. However, postprinting produces graphics with less detail and is usually limited to one or two colors. Preprinted. High quality, full-color graphics may be obtained by preprinting the linerboard before it is attached to the corrugated paperboard. Whereas the cost is about 15 percent more than standard two color containers, the eye catching quality of the graphics makes it very useful for many situations. The visual quality of the package influences the perception of the product because the buyer's first impression is of the outside of the package. Produce managers especially like high quality graphics that they can use in super market floor displays.

Preprinted cartons are usually reserved for the introduction of new products or new brands. Market research has shown that exporters may benefit from sophisticated graphics. The increased cost usually does not justify use for mature products in a stable market, but this may change as the cost of these containers becomes more competitive. Pulp Containers. Containers made from recycled paper pulp and a starch binder are mainly used for small consumer packages of fresh produce. Pulp containers are available in a large variety of shapes and sizes and are relatively inexpensive in standard sizes. Pulp containers can absorb surface moisture from the product, which is a benefit for small fruit and berries that are easily harmed by water. Pulp containers are also biodegradable, made from recycled materials, and recyclable.

Standardization of Packaging

Produce package standardization is interpreted differently by different groups. The wide variety of package sizes and material combinations is a result of the market responding to demands from many different segments of the produce industry.

For example, many of the large-volume buyers of fresh produce are those most concerned with the environment. They demand less packaging and the use of more recyclable and biodegradable materials, yet would also like to have many different sizes of packages for convenience.Packers want to limit the variety of packages they must carry in stock, yet they have driven the trend toward preprinted, individualized containers. Shippers and trucking companies want to standardize sizes so the packages may be better palletized and handled.

Produce buyers are not a homogeneous group. Buyers for grocery chains have different needs than buyers for food service. For grocery items normally sold in bulk, processors want largest size packages that they can handle efficiently - to minimize unpacking time and reduce the cost of handling or disposing of the used containers. Produce managers, on the other hand, want individualized, high quality graphics to entice retail buyers with in-store displays. Selecting the right container for fresh produce is seldom a matter of personal choice for the packer. For each commodity, the market has unofficial, but nevertheless rigid standards for packaging; therefore it is very risky to use a nonstandard package.

packaging technology, market acceptability, and disposal regulations are constantly changing. When choosing a package for fresh fruits and vegetables, packers must consult the market, and in some markets, standard packages may be required by law.

Corrugated Fiberboard - Packaging

Corrugated fiberboard (often mistakenly called cardboard or pasteboard) is manufactured in many different styles and weights. Because of its relativity low cost and versatility, it is the dominant produce container material and will probably remain so in the near future. The strength and serviceability of corrugated fiberboard have been improving in recent years. Most corrugated fiberboard is made from three or more layers of paperboard manufactured by the kraft process. To be considered paperboard, the paper must be thicker than 0.008 inches.

The grades of paperboard are differentiated by their weight (in pounds per 1,000 square feet) and their thickness. Kraft paper made from unbleached pulp has a characteristic brown color and is exceptionally strong. In addition to virgin wood fibers, Kraft paper may have some portion of synthetic fibers for additional strength, sizing (starch), and other materials to give it wet strength and printability. Most fiberboard contains some recycled fibers. Minimum amounts of recycled materials may be specified by law and the percentage is expected to increase in the future. Tests have shown that cartons of fully recycled pulp have about 75 percent of the stacking strength of virgin fiber containers.

The use of recycled fibers will inevitably lead to the use of thicker walled containers. Double-faced corrugated fiberboard is the predominant form used for produce containers. It is produced by sandwiching a layer of corrugated paperboard between an inner and outer liner (facing) of paper-board. The inner and outer liner may be identical, or the outer layer may be preprinted or coated to better accept printing.

The inner layer may be given a special coating to resist moisture. Heavy-duty shipping containers, such as corrugated bulk bins that are required to have high stacking strength, may have double- or even triple-wall construction. Corrugated fiberboard manufacturers print box certificates on the bottom of containers to certify certain strength characteristics and limitations. There are two types of certification. The first certifies the minimum combined weight of both the inner and outer facings and that the corrugated fiberboard material is of a minimum bursting strength. The second certifies minimum edge crush test (ETC) strength. Edge crush strength is a much better predictor of stacking strength than is bursting strength. For this reason, users of corrugated fiberboard containers should insist on ECT certification to compare the stackability of various containers. Both certificates give a maximum size limit for the container (sum of length, width, and height) and the maximum gross weight of the contents.Both cold temperatures and high humidities reduce the strength of fiberboard containers.

Unless the container is specially treated, moisture absorbed from the surrounding air and the contents can reduce the strength of the container by as much as 75 percent. New anti-moisture coatings (both wax and plastic) are now available to substantially reduce the effects of moisture. Waxed fiberboard cartons (the wax is about 20 percent of fiber weight) are used for many produce items that must be either hydrocooled or iced. The main objection to wax cartons is disposal after use— wax cartons cannot be recycled and are increasingly being refused at landfills. Several states and municipalities have recently taxed wax cartons or have instituted rigid back haul regulations. Industry sources suggest that wax cartons will eventually be replaced by plastic or, more likely, the use of ice and hydrocooling will be replaced by highly controlled forced-air cooling and rigid temperature and humidity maintenance on many commodities. In many applications for corrugated fiberboard containers, the stacking strength of the container is a minor consideration.

For example, canned goods carry the majority of their own weight when stacked. Fresh produce usually cannot carry much of the vertical load without some damage. Therefore, one of the primarily desired characteristics of corrugated fiberboard containers is stacking strength to protect the produce from crushing. Because of their geometry, most of the stacking strength of corrugated containers is carried by the corners. For this reason, hand holes and ventilation slots should never be positioned near the corners of produce containers and be limited to no more than 5 to 7 percent of the side area. Interlocking the packages (cross stacking) is universally practiced to stabilize pallets. Cross stacking places the corner of one produce package at the middle of the one below it, thus reducing its stacking strength. To reduce the possibility of collapse, the first several layers of each pallet should be column stacked (one package directly above the other). The upper layers of packages may be cross stacked as usual with very little loss of pallet stability.

There are numerous styles of corrugated fiberboard containers. The two most used in the produce industry are the one piece, regular slotted container (RSC) and the two piece, full telescoping container (FTC). The RSC is the most popular because it is simple and economical.

Plastic stretch film for packaging

Plastic stretch film is also widely used to secure produce packages. A good film must stretch, retain its elasticity, and cling to the packages. Plastic film may conform easily to various size loads. It helps protect the packages from loss of moisture, makes the pallet more secure against pilferage, and can be applied using partial automation. However, plastic film severely restricts proper ventilation. A common alternative to stretch film is plastic netting, which is much better for stabilizing some pallet loads, such as those that require forced-air cooling. Used stretch film and plastic netting may be difficult to properly handle and recycle.

A very low-cost and almost fully automated method of pallet stabilization is the application of a small amount of special glue to the top of each package. As the packages are stacked, the glue secures all cartons together. This glue has a low tensile strength so cartons may be easily separated or repositioned, but a high shear strength so they will not slide. The glue does not present disposal or recycling problems. Pallet Bins. Substantial wooden pallet bins of milled lumber or.plywood are primarily used to move produce from the field or orchard to the packing house. Depending on the application, capacities may range from 12 to more than 50 bushels. Although the height may vary, the length and width is generally the same as a standard pallet (48 inches by 40 inches).

More efficient double-wide pallet bins (48 inches by 80 inches) are becoming more common in some produce operations. Most pallet bins are locally made; therefore it is very important that they be consistent from lot to lot in materials, construction, and especially size. For example, small differences in overall dimensions Pallet bin can add up to big problems when several hundred are stacked together for cooling, ventilation, or storage. It is also important that stress points be adequately reinforced.

The average life of a hardwood pallet bin that is stored outside is approximately five years. When properly protected from the weather, pallets bins may have a useful life of 10 years or more. Uniform voluntary standards for wood pallets and other wood containers are administered by the National Wooden Pallet and Container Association, Washington, DC. Additionally, the American Society of Agricultural Engineers, St. Joseph, Michigan, publishes standards for agricultural pallet bins (ASAE S337.1).

Wire-Bound Crates. Although alternatives are available, wooden wire-bound crates are used extensively for snap beans, sweet corn and several other commodities that require hydrocooling. Wire-bound crates are sturdy, rigid and have very high stacking strength that is essentially unaffected by water. Wire-bound crates come in many different sizes from half- bushel to pallet-bin size and have a great deal of open space to facilitate cooling and ventilation. Although few are re-used, wire-bound crates may be dissembled after use and shipped back to the packer (flat). In some areas, used containers may pose a significant disposal problem.

Wirebound crates are not generally acceptable for consumer packaging because of the difficulty in affixing suitable labels. Wooden Crates and Lugs. Wooden crates, once extensively used for apples, stone fruit, and potatoes have been almost totally replaced by other types of containers. The relative expense of the container, a greater concern for tare weight, and advances in material handling have reduced their use to a few specialty items, such as expensive tropical fruit. The 15-, 20-, and 25-pound wooden lugs still used for bunch grapes and some specialty crops are being gradually replaced with less costly alternatives.

Wooden Baskets and Hampers. Wire-reinforced wood veneer baskets and hampers of different sizes were once used for a wide variety of crops from strawberries to sweetpotatoes. They are durable and may be nested for efficient transport when empty. However, cost, disposal problems, and difficulty in efficient palletization have severely limited their use to mostly local grower markets where they may be re-used many times.

Wood packaging

Wood Pallets literally form the base on which most fresh produce is delivered to the consumer. Pallets were first used during World War II as an efficient way to move goods. The produce industry uses approximately 190 of the 700 million pallets produced per year in the U.S.. About 40 percent of these are single-use pallets.

Because many are of a non-standard size, the pallets are built as inexpensively as possible and discarded after a single use. Although standardization efforts have been slowly under way for many years, the efforts have been accelerated by pressure from environmental groups, in addition to the rising cost of pallets and landfill tipping fees.

Over the years, the 40-inch wide, by 48-inch long pallet has evolved as the unofficial standard size. Standardization encourages re-use, which has many benefits. Besides reducing cost because they may be used many times, most pallet racks and automated pallet handling equipment are designed for standard-size pallets. Standard size pallets make efficient use of truck and van space and can accommodate heavier loads and more stress than lighter single-use pallets. Additionally, the use of a single pallet size could substantially reduce pallet inventory and warehousing costs along with pallet repair and disposal costs. The adoption of a pallet standard throughout the produce industry would also aid efforts toward standardization of produce containers.

In the early 1950s, an alternative to the pallet was introduced. It is a pallet-size sheet (slipsheet) of corrugated fiberboard or plastic (or a combination of these materials) with a narrow lip along one or more sides. packages of produce are stacked directly on this sheet as if it were a pallet. Once the packages are in place, they are moved by a specially equipped fork lift equipped with a thin metal sheet instead of forks. Slipsheets are considerably less expensive than pallets to buy, store, and maintain; they may be re-used many times; and they reduce the tare weight of the load.

However, they require the use of a special fork-lift attachment at each handling point from packer to retailer. Depending on the size of produce package, a single pallet may carry from 20 to over 100 individual packages. Because these packages are often loosely stacked to allow for air circulation, or are bulging and difficult to stack evenly, they must be secured (unitized) to prevent shifting during handling and transit. Although widely used, plastic straps and tapes may not have completely satisfactory results. Plastic or paper corner tabs should always be used to prevent the straps from crushing the corners of packages.

Packaging Requirements for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Packaging fresh fruits and vegetables is one of the more important steps in the long and complicated journey from grower to consumer.Bags, crates, hampers, baskets, cartons, bulk bins, and palletized containers are convenient containers for handling, transporting, and marketing fresh produce. More than 1,500 different types of packages are used for produce in the U.S. and the number continues to increase as the industry introduces new packaging materials and concepts.

Although the industry generally agrees that container standardization is one way to reduce cost, the trend in recent years has moved toward a wider range of package sizes to accommodate the diverse needs of wholesalers, consumers, food service buyers, and processing operations. Packing and packaging materials contribute a significant cost to the produce industry; therefore it is important that packers, shippers, buyers, and consumers have a clear understanding of the wide range of packaging options available. This fact sheet describes some of the many types of packaging, including their functions, uses, and limitations. Also included is a listing, by commodity, of the common produce containers standard to the industry. The Function of Packaging or Why package Produce?A significant percentage of produce buyer and consumer complaints may be traced to container failure because of poor design or inappropriate selection and use. A properly designed produce container should contain, protect, and identify the produce, satisfying everyone from grower to consumer.

PACKAGING POINTS Recyclability/Biodegradability. A growing number of U.S. markets and many export markets have waste disposal restrictions for packaging materials. In the near future, almost all produce packaging will be recyclable or biodegradable, or both. Many of the largest buyers of fresh produce are also those most concerned about environmental issues. Variety. The trend is toward greater use of bulk packages for processors and wholesale buyers and smaller packages for consumers. There are now more than 1,500 different sizes and styles of produce packages. Sales Appeal.High quality graphics are increasingly being used to boost sales appeal. Multi-color printing, distinctive lettering, and logos are now common. Shelf Life. Modern produce packaging can be custom engineered for each commodity to extend shelf life and reduce waste.

Containment The container must enclose the produce in convenient units for handling and distribution. The produce should fit well inside the container, with little wasted space. Small produce items that are spherical or oblong (such as potatoes, onions, and apples) may be packaged efficiently utilizing a variety of different package shapes and sizes. However, many produce items such as asparagus, berries, or soft fruit may require containers specially designed for that item. Packages of produce commonly handled by hand are usually limited to 50 pounds. Bulk packages moved by fork lifts may weigh as much as 1,200 pounds.Protection The package must protect the produce from mechanical damage and poor environmental conditions during handling and distribution. To produce buyers, torn, dented, or collapsed produce packages usually indicate lack of care in handling the contents.

Produce containers must be sturdy enough to resist damage during packaging, storage, and transportation to market. Because almost all produce packages are palletized, produce containers should have sufficient stacking strength to resist crushing in a low temperature, high humidity environment. Although the cost of packaging materials has escalated sharply in recent years, poor quality, lightweight containers that are easily damaged by handling or moisture are no longer tolerated by packers or buyers. Produce destined for export markets requires that containers to be extra sturdy. Air-freighted produce may require special packing, package sizes, and insulation. Marketers who export fresh produce should consult with freight companies about any special packaging requirements.

Additionally, the USDA and various state export agencies may be able to provide specific packaging information. Damage resulting from poor environmental control during handling and transit is one of the leading causes of rejected produce and low buyer and consumer satisfaction. Each fresh fruit and vegetable commodity has its own requirements for temperature, humidity, and environmental gas composition. Produce containers should be produce friendly - helping to maintain an optimum environment for the longest shelf life. This may include special materials to slow the loss of water from the produce, insulation materials to keep out the heat, or engineered plastic liners that maintain a favorable mix of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Identification The package must identify and provide useful information about the produce. It is customary (and may be required in some cases) to provide information such as the produce name, brand, size, grade, variety, net weight, count, grower, shipper, and country of origin. It is also becoming more common to find included on the package, nutritional information, recipes, and other useful information directed specifically at the consumer. In consumer marketing, pack- age appearance has also become an important part of point of sale displays. Universal Product Codes (UPC or bar codes) may be included as part of the labeling.

The UPCs used in the food industry consist of a ten-digit machine readable code. The first five digits are a number assigned to the specific producer (packer or shipper) and the second five digits represent specific product information such as type of produce and size of package. Although no price information is included, UPCs are used more and more by packers, shippers, buyers, and Example of a UPC retailers as a fast and convenient method of inventory control and cost accounting. Efficient use of UPCs requires coordination with everyone who handles the package.

The Effect of Credit Card Fraud on Low Cost Carriers

The developing world has immensely contributed to the economic boost that India is currently enjoying and it's tourism sector has not been left out of the share of profits either- a major achievement for the image of brand India build up by a successful finacial system in place in our country.Some economists credit this fiscal feature of success of Indian financial system to the income generated by the tourism segment, movements across the cross-section of rising business opportunities, agricultural and educational sectors opening up as well as novel and attractive packaging of brand-building for India that have in turn, benefited the travel industry as well. Besides this, strategic planning of excursion packages, eco-tourism, sports events that bring the spot-light on India and greater patronage by greater number of MNC's heading to our shores as well as diversifications of the Indian open industries norm have contributed to the growth of Indian economy and thereby, Indian tourism.

The WTO (World Tourism Organization) reports that as many as 698 million people traveled to a foreign country in 2000, spending over US$ 478 billion while on tour; if India too had a share in these results, then surely the impact of Indian economy as a contributor to rising world economy and its impact on tourism cannot be ignored. More of free spending of disposable incomes, greater markets opening up and better scope for industrialization and earning opportunities have led the way for India's economy to successfully launch the enhanced tourism sector.What has contributed to the economic growth of India and the tourism sector at large are factors of industrialization, education, higher number of qualified professionals, opening up of foreign markets, liberal trade policies and better advertising and strategic marketing.

The above factors have been collectively responsible for boosting our country's economic reserves and the impact of India's economic growth on tourism is increasingly being felt in specialty sectors like spiritual tourism, spa tourism, student/senior citizen or family vacation plan segments in tourism as well as (surprise, surprise!) adventure tourism! Better amenities and modernization of roads, infrastructure in hotels, local lodging options, accreditation of genuine travel operators and guides etc., training being imparted by government and private sector individuals interested in developing specific regions for tourism promotion and encouraging global gains for India have all been strategized well.

These policies put in place after significant contribution from field experts like market watchers, tourism ministry and education and foreign affairs ministry support systems are governed by the needs of tourists visiting India for a certain cultural flavor, yet, not be deprived of comforts, hygiene, security and conveniences that are world-class.Understanding and fulfilling needs of global tourists for quality vacationing: the kick-off for creditable performance and strong impact of India's economic growth on TourismIndian tourism receipts combined with better passenger transport systems and customized food and lodging preferences taken into consideration by exclusive tour operators has meant a niche segment of the country's top travel agencies generating considerable income for their industry.

No wonder, as things stand, tourism has become the number one export earner, ahead of automotive products, chemicals, petroleum and food for India and this would not have been possible without the combining of governmental, community and private industry powers through diversification in the economy.

This diversification of economy is a sign of health for India as a developing nation fast emerging as a major player in the tourism sector, which has got a shot in the arm thanks to better management at local and urban levels. The only issue of concern is that should India or any of its major tourism generating regions become dependent for its economic survival upon one industry, it can put major stress upon this sector and its people, who may be compelled to perform well consistently. One solution for easing the burden of India's welcome economic growth off the shoulders of the locals is for our developing country to explore other resources, apart from embracing specialized tourism pockets, as a way to boost the economy.

Indian Real Estate: Getting More Transparent

In order, to protect buyer interests and encourage foreign direct investment
(FDI), the Ministry of Housing may make it mandatory for real estate developers to compulsorily insure land title deeds before selling the property. This will ensure that in case of any litigation later on, title deed insuring will help mitigate a buyer’s financial risk

“It is found that many foreign investors have expressed apprehension investing in the country due to lack of transparency in title deeds. Fearing various claimants for the same property, followed by lengthy court battles, foreign investors shy away from investing in real estate. Compulsory insurance of land deeds would address the issue to a great extent and help both domestic, as well as, foreign buyers,” according to a senior official in the Cabinet.Although, there is nothing new about the clause, mandatory land title insurance already being practiced in USA and some European countries, it could be a first for India.

“It is an insurance against loss from defects in title. It is meant to protect a property owner’s or lender’s financial interest in property against loss due to title defects, liens or other matters,” explains S.P. Gupta, Haryana Urban Development Authority (HUDA) administrator.Not only, will the new legislation provide investors with a clear title, it will also provide financial security, as insurance companies will have undertaken due diligence before proceeding to insure the property.

As is their norm, insurance firms get their network to track relevant property records, and ascertain properties with fictitious ownership titles do not get insured.As well, insuring property title deeds will also certify the type of land that is being insured i.e. residential or agricultural. A good way of ensuring, no one is able to dub agricultural land as commercial land, in order to dupe investors.Clearly, perhaps, globalisation does hold the proverbial silver lining for Indians.

Eager to attract investment, the government is forced to legislate new Acts to bring greater transparency in business transactions, whether governmental or private, to keep the FDI flowing in. And, cleaning up the red tape, bureaucracy and other babu type of shenanigans, it is to be hoped India will continue its upward climb on the global corruption index!

Coimbatore Travel Guide

Coimbatore The 3rd largest city in Tamilnadu, Coimbatore is popularly known as the ‘Manchester of south India’ for its many textile mills. Is a large business and industrial city and a hub of discussion and debate with many medical, educational, business and technology groups conducting seminars here. Based at the foothills of the Nilgiris, the city also boasts of tea and coffee plantations along with numerous cash crops like tobacco and cotton. One of South India’s most important industrial cities, the development of hydroelectricity from pykara falls in the 1930s led to a cotton boom in Coimbatore.

Attractions in Coimbatore:
• VOC Amusement Park and ZooThe amusement park, named after the freedom fighter V. O. Chidambaram, is an exciting place for both children and adults. The main attraction of the park includes a number of joy rides, an aquarium containing large variety of fish, a zoo and a toy train. • Marudhamalai Located on a hillock about 12 km from Coimbatore Railway Station, the temple of Marudhamalai, dedicated to Lord Subramanya, is one of the most visited temples in the region. One of the reasons of the large number of devotees flocking the temple is that the residing deity Dandayuthapani is believed to have performed several miracles here.

Thai Poosam and Tirukarthigai festivals are celebrated with great pomp and gaiety at this temple. • Agriculture UniversitySituated about 5 km from the railway station, the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University is one of the best institutions for agricultural studies in Asia. The university spread in an area of 300 hectares also houses a botanical garden with different species of plants and trees.

• Perur
Perur is a small town situated about 6 km from Coimbatore. Its main claim to fame is the holy Perur Temple, one of the seven Kongu Sivalayams. The outer buildings of the temple were built by rulers of Madurai in the 17th century but the inner shrine is much older. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. One of the remarkable features here is the figure of a sepoy (Indian soldier) loading a musket carved on the base of the pillar near the entrance, wearing identical dress to that of the Aurangzeb's soldiers.
• Forest College
The Forest College is located at a short distance from the railway station. A museum located inside the college is one of the major tourist attractions housing a collection of unique rocks, minerals, snakes, insects and other types of fungi.
• Siruvani Waterfalls

The picturesque Siruvani Waterfalls and Dam is situated about 37 km west of the city. The place abounding in natural beauty leaves the tourists mesmerized and spellbound by its sheer natural splendor. The water of Siruvani contains a lot of minerals and is known for its taste. Coimbatore Excursions: Thirty kilometers from the city is the famous Vaideki Water Falls, which is a popular Coimbatore thing to do. Visitors are spell bound by the beauty of the waterfall. The area around the fall is also a good trekking area. About ninety kilometers from the city is the Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary. It is spread over an area of almost nine-hundred-and-sixty square kilometers, and is home to some of the finest species of mammals, including all the big cats. Bhavani is a major pilgrim site that is located one-hundred-twenty kilometers from the city. All the Crocodile Dundees can travel twenty from Amarvati dam, to a crocodile farm, where you can feed a croc. This temple has visitors all round the year. You can also visit Black Thunder, which is frequently called the best amusement park in Asia. This water theme park is very thrilling indeed. Coimbatore is a gateway to many fascinating cities in the south, like Kodaikanal or Ooty. How to
Reach Coimbatore:
By AirPeelamedu airport is 10-km from the Coimbatore city, which operates regular flights to Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi and Madurai. By RailCoimbatore is a major railway junction on the Southern Railways and has trains to Chennai, Rameswaram, Madurai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Kanyakumari, Kozhikode, Mettupalayam, Kochi and Delhi.

By RoadWell built roads and highways connect Coimbatore to all the major cities in and around the state. Local TransportationFor local transportation, city buses, taxis and auto rickshaws are available. State Transport Corporation ply mini luxury coaches between various points in the city and airport.

Growth drivers in India for retail sector

• Rising incomes and improvements in infrastructure are enlarging consumer markets and accelerating the convergence of consumer tastes.

• Liberalization of the Indian economy • Increase in spending Percapita Income. • Advent of dual income families also helps in the growth of retail sector. • Shift in consumer demand to foreign brands like McDonalds, Sony, Panasonic, etc. • Consumer preference for shopping in new environs • The Internet revolution is making the Indian consumer more accessible to the growing influences of domestic and foreign retail chains.

Reach of satellite T.V. channels is helping in creating awareness about global products for local markets. • About 47% of India's population is under the age of 20; and this will increase to 55% by 2015. This young population, which is technology-savvy, watch more than 50 TV satellite channels, and display the highest propensity to spend, will immensely contribute to the growth of the retail sector in the country. • Availability of quality real estate and mall management practices • Foreign companies' attraction to India is the billion-plus population. Employment opportunities in retail sector in India India's retail industry is the second largest sector, after agriculture, which provides employment.

According to Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), the retail sector will create 50,000 jobs in next few years. Retail companies are starting retail manamgent courses in partnership with management institutes, roping in talent from other sectors and developing comprehensive career growth and loyalty plans for existing employees. Top players like Pantaloon Retail India Limited, Trent, Shopper's Stop, RPG Group and ebony are virtually on their toes. Consider the plans of largest player, The Pantaloon Retail India Ltd, the company has developed a comprehensive strategy, where in it expects that in 2years, it will not recruit any new managers from outside.

"The estimated need is 1 lakh of employees till 2011", said Mr. Sanjoy Jog, HR Head at Pantaloon Retail India Ltd. Pantaloon has the concept of partnership with educational Institute to run retail courses across the entire chain. The company has tied up with 11-B schools including K J Somaiya , Welinkars, Narsee Monjre and IISWBM. "The students joins the course and they are given an appointment letter by Pantaloon to become employees" said Mr. Jog, Pantaloon. Pantaloon is also planning to tie up with Ahmedabad-based National Institute of Design to start a course in visual merchandising.

"The apex body of Indian organized retailers, Retailers Association of India( RAI) is also lending help hand to tide over the shortage of employees in organized retail sector. Trent has also started in-house learning programmes and now goes to under graduate colleges to recruit students. Since, the job market is hugely receptive to this with more and more business schools focusing on the sector and large retailers setting up retail academics. Challenges of Retailing in India In India the Retailing industry has a long way to go,and to become a truly flourishing industry, retailing needs to cross the following hurdles:

* The first challenge facing the organized retail sector is the competition from unorganized sector.* In retail sector, Automatic approval is not allowed for foreign investment.* Taxation, which favors small retail businesses.* Developed supply chain and integrated IT management is absent in retail sector.* Lack of trained work force.* Low skill level for retailing management.* Intrinsic complexity of retailing- rapid price changes, threat of product obsolescence and low margins.* Organized retail sector has to pay huge taxes, which is negligible for small retail business.*Cost of business operations is very high in India.ConclusionMany agencies have estimated differently about the size of organized retail market in 2010.

The one thing that is common amongst these estimates is that Indian organized retail market will be very big in 2010. The status of the retail industry will depend mostly on external factors like Government regulations and policies and real estate prices, besides the activities of retailers and demands of the customers also show impact on retail industry.As the retail market place changes shape and competition increases, the potential for improving retail productivity and cutting costs is likely to decrease. Therefore it is important for retailers to secure a distinctive position in the market place based on values relationships or experience.

Finally it is important to note that these strategies are not strictly independent of each other; value is function of not just price quality and service but can also be enhanced by personalization and offering a memorable experience

Retail Industry : Strategy

Stategy suggested:
A rapid penetration strategy is suggested at this stage i>e low price and high promotion.

Growth: In growth stage, the market is developing quickly and also ready for modern retailing. Countries, which are in Peaking stage, are India, Ukraine and Vietnam. Retailers entering this stage have the best chance for long-term success. Retailers at this stage should enter through local representations, sourcing offices and new stores. Wal-Mart success in china in the late 1990's and early 2000's gives us the importance of committing to a promising high-growth market at right time.

Strategy suggested: The strategy of adopting quality and styled products with new models and shift of advertising from product awareness to product preference Eg the big bazaar advt says surf exel is cheaper than the market price.The idea behind adopting strategy is to strengthen against competitors.
Maturity: In this stage the market is still big and growing, but the space for new entrants will become tighter and retailers should act quickly at this stage because retailers at this stage have limited time to explore, and also their margin for error is thin. In general , they should act according to the established rules and should be open to face the competition from international retailers. This stage generally lasts longer than the previous two stages.Strategy suggested: Enter new market segments that is either enter new geographic areas eg vishal megha mart has opened stores in smaller cities tier II and III citiesDecline: The window of opportunity is closing fast and modern retail share is reaching 40 to 60 percent.

Though the opportunity is closing the existing retailers can enter with new formats such as discount models or non-food formats such as consumer electronics and apparel. Window of opportunity ends for about 5 to 10years before a market enters the closing phase and reaches saturation level. India for example, was in the opening stage in 1995 and entered peaking stage in the year 2003 and reached number 1 rank in2005. Strategy suggested: Identifying weak segments, maintaining investment level selectively.Unorganized retailing in India In India, the most of the retail sector is unorganized. In India, the retail business contributes around 11 percent of GDP. Of this, the organized retail sector accounts only for about 3 percent share, and the remaining share is contributed by the unorganized sector.

The main challenge facing the organized sector is the competition from unorganized sector. Unorganized retailing has been there in India for centuries, theses are named as mom-pop stores. The main advantage in unorganized retailing is consumer familiarity that runs from generation to generation. It is a low cost structure, they are mostly operated by owners, has very low real estate and labor costs and has low taxes to pay. Organized retailing in India In late 1990's the retail sector has witnessed a level of transformation. Retailing is being perceived as a beginner and as an attractive commercial business for organized business i.e. the pure retailer is starting to emerge now. Organized retail business in India is very small but has tremendous scope. The total in 2005 stood at $225 billion, accounting for about 11% of GDP. In this total market, the organized retail accounts for only $8 billion of total revenue. According to A T Kearney, the organized retailing is expected to be more than $23 billion revenue by 2010. In organized retailing will grow faster than unorganized sector and the growth speed will be responsible for its high market share, which is expected to be $ 17 billion by 2010-11. Retailing will show good prospects in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, kolkata, Banglore and Kanpur. After Dubai, Singapore and Hong Kong, In India Delhi will be the next big retail destination, According to Confederation of Indian Industries whose findings have shown that Delhi has the good resources and good conditions for the retail sector. Out of the total earnings of the Government of Delhi Rs 11,000 crore, Rs 6,500 crore is achieved from the retail sector.- Share of Organised Retail 1999 2002 2005 Total Retail (in billion INR) 7000 8250 10000 Organized Retail (in billion INR) 50 150 350 % Share of Organized Retail 0.70% 1.80% 3.5% The organized sector is expected to grow faster than GDP growth in next few years driven by favorable demographic patterns, changing lifestyles, and strong income growth.

This organized retail sector mix includes supermarkets, hypermarkets discounted stores and specialty stores, departmental stores. For example, Spencer network has 69 stores, which includes seven Spencer hypermarkets, three Spencer super markets and 49 Spencer Dailys. Now the company is planning to open 20 stores in 10 cities in six months. The top 10 retailers account only for 2% of total market, today modern retailing is expected to enter a boom phase, which has major players and these players might capture 10% of total market, within next five years. The retail sales in India for future are shown below (data from 2005-2008 is based on estimates): PRESENT INDIAN SCENARIO * Unorganized market: Rs. 583,000 crores* Organized market: Rs.5, 000 crores* 5X growth in organized retailing between 2000-2005 * Over 4,000 new modern Outlets in the last 3 years* Over 5,000,000 sq. ft. of mall space under development* The top 3 modern retailers control over 750,000 sq. ft. of retail space * Over 400,000 shoppers walk through their doors every week

Retail Industry in India:challenges Opportunties and Strategies

Introduction Retailing involves all activities incidental to selling to ultimate consumer for their personnel family and household use. It does this by organizing their availability on a relatively large scale and supplying them to a customers on arelatively smallscale. Retailer is any person/organization instrumental in reaching the goods or merchandise oer services to the end users.Retailer is a must and cannot be eliminated.The Indian retailing industry is becoming intensely competitive, as more and more payers are Vying for the same set of customers.

The major retail players are Pantaloon Retail, Shoppers Stop, Reliance,etc.., Retailing is one of the biggest sectors and it is witnessing revolution in India. The new entrant in retailing in India signifies the beginning of retail revolution. India's retail market is expected to grow tremendously in next few years. According to AT Kearney, The Windows of Opportunity shows that Retailing in India was at opening stage in 1995 and now it is in peaking stage in 2006. India's retail market is expected to grow tremendously in next few years. India shows US$330 billion retail market that is expected to grow 10% a year, with modern retailing just beginning. India ranks first in 2005.

In fact, in 2005 and 2006, India is the most compelling opportunity for retailers, because now India is in peaking stage. This window of opportunity is useful for executives who plan their market-specific strategies; the four stages or the lifecycle of this industry is as as follows: Introduction: An introduction is the opening phase of a market and is one that is just entering the GRDI, Global Retail Development Index This index is based on more than 25 macro-economic and retail –specific variables.for instance ,the country risk includes parameters like political risk,economic performance,debt indicators,credit ratings,access bank finance and business risk.The market attractiveness covers reail sales per capita ,urban population ,laws and regulations and business efficiency.Iin this stage all, which are outside the top 30 markets, falls in this stage.

At this stage, retailers should monitor and performing high-level assessments, they should plan for their entry strategies. India in the late 1990's is a good example in the opening stage, while in 2006, Kazakhstan is the country in introduction stage.

Need for Accounting Standards for Agriculture and Livestock

Need for Accounting Standards for Agriculture and LivestockAccording to the NAFSCOB (National Federation of State Co-operative Banks Ltd) report there are 30 SCBs (State Co-operative Banks), 962 branches, 370 DCCBs (Districts Central Co-operative Banks and 1,06,384 primary societies in India by 31/3/2006. The Government of India established NABARD to finance the agricultural sector through state and District Co-operative Banks. All the DCCBs and PACS (Primary Agricultural Credit Societies) are lending loans and advances for the development of agricultural sector and uplifting of weaker section.

The DCCBs and PACBs in India provide loans and advances for different agricultural schemes. These schemes are formulated and approved under the supervision and control of NABARD. The high yielding cultivable crops are identified for different regions and financial assistances are offered under Short Term and Medium Term (ST & MT), Schematic lending, ST & MT Agricultural loans and SAOs (Seasonal and Agricultural Operations) Financial assistance is provided for marketing, storage, purchase of seeds, fertilizers and pesticides and for all the agricultural activities.

The commercial crops are also identified and loans and advances are provided for production, marketing and for other related needs under separate schemes and plans. In the books of accounts of any DCCB or PACS we can find plenty of loans and advances provided for cattle purchase, poultry, goat farm etc. In the accounting parlance these are brought under the category of ‘Livestock’. As per schedule VI of the Companies Act the livestock is included in fixed assets. Normally fixed assets are brought under the purview of depreciation as per the generally acceptable accounting principles and standard practices. It is obligatory as per legal provisions of certain Acts. The stock of inventories is categorized as current asset and valued according to the standard practices followed by the respective organizations.According to AS 9 - Revenue Recognition concept, the minimum amount of sale income earned from agriculture can be reliably measured even at the time of completion of production.

This may be due to support price set by the Government or immediate marketability. The price is pre-determined before marketing it. In such case the revenue may be recognized as soon as the production or harvesting is completed at the pre-determined price and that will be the selling price. There are so many crops for which no adequate support price is being provided and immediate convertibility into cash is also not possible. We could find a dispute in existing support price or the price determined every year by the Govt. The IAS-41 (International Accounting Standard) has been introduced for Agriculture. The General Clarification (GC) - 12/2002, issued by the Accounting Standard Board of the ICAI on applicability of accounting standards indicated that the Accounting standards would apply to all the activities of the co-operative societies including those which are not commercial, Industrial and or business in nature. The Auditors should examine the books of accounts of them in accordance with Accounting Standards and deviations must be disclosed.

According to Accounting Standard 2 revised (AS-2 revised) the stock of inventories that is one of the current assets must be valued at ‘Net Realizable Value’. The AS-2 is not applicable to producer’s inventories of livestock, agricultural and forest products, mineral oils, ores and gases. According to AS-2 and IAS-2 (International Accounting Standards) they are measured at net realizable value in accordance with well-established practices in those concerns. It is obligatory to follow similar accounting policies consistently in all accounting periods. Any change must be disclosed in the financial statement. AS-10 deals with Fixed Assets. All the depreciable assets must be depreciated as per the standard practices. The depreciation is calculated under SLM (Straight Line Method), WDV (Written down Value method), unit of production method or any other standard method permitted to follow.

Now the questions raised on stock of agricultural produce and live stock are 1. What are the procedures for recording such items?2. What are the methods of valuing such stock? 3. If the current practices followed are approved which are the Standard practices to be considered prudential?When these questions are raised to a group of practicing Charted Accountants, they said it is an unimportant area and hence they accept the current method of valuation followed by their client for agricultural produces or livestock. Since it is neglected as an unimportant area, proper emphasis was not given so far. But, India is an agricultural based country and more than 90% of village population has livestock. Most of the farmers and villagers earn their livelihood from livestock and income from crops. They take crop loan and schematic loans from DCCBs and PACSs available in their respective jurisdiction. Even the authorities concerned accept that they do not follow any standard practice for valuing the yield of livestock.

The breeding animals loan and all kinds of loan granted for livestock are highly hypothetical. It seems that it is granted on trial and error basis. In practice the DCCB and PACS ask the party to produce a “Veterinary Doctor Certificate” about the health condition of the cattle or the livestock to approve the loan. Many of their methods are substandard and unrealistic. The agricultural loans and crops loans are provided based on the agricultural schemes and plans that are prepared on unrealistic assumptions on the value of yield and duration of the yield. So in order to develop standard practices, the Indian Accounting Standard Board must come forward to formulate an Accounting Standard in the form of guidelines or provisions. While formulating it, cautions must be taken to prevent contradictions with other Accounting Standards, Concepts and Conventions, especially with revenue recognition concept and matching concept.

It is expected that this will give a convincing solution for the following questions.1. What are the Principles to be followed in recording Agriculture produce and livestock in books of accounts?2. What are the methods of valuing the yield before and after the harvest of commercial and non-commercial crops?3. What are the situations in which livestock can be considered as fixed assets?4. What are the situations in which the livestock can be considered as current Assets?5. How to value the Livestock?This would help to develop standard and productive practices in granting loan to develop rural population in the long run. The lending policies and collection of overdue would not thrust any burden or risk. The people will use the rural credit wisely only on productive schemes. The unscrupulous persons could be prevented from misusing such facilities available in co-operative banks. This would facilitate to reach the schemes and plans to the right people. The people will feel their moral responsibility of repaying the loan and the NPA (Non- Performing Assets) in the DCCBs and PACS in India could be brought under control.

The Growing Capital City of India

India is a growing nation. It is no more a backward country. Days are gone when India was considered to be a country of farmers, agriculture, and snake charmers. It is now known because of its high tech companies and software professionals. All metro cities in India like Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Gurgaon, Pune etc are now a center of attraction for all those who look forward to live with the best of amenities and a good environment. Delhi, being the capital city of India, provides all the more advantages to people coming from other cities or abroad to find themselves a home. Delhi is now a place to live in with tranquility and a better social life. It not only has greenery and an enriched culture but also is the place to find various opportunities in terms of jobs and money.

The city is well equipped with high tech opportunities and a well-maintained social atmosphere. This is the basic reason why in recent years real estate in Delhi has gone for a wild ride. The development of NCR and growing population in Delhi has led to a sudden increase in property rates in Delhi. Due to a higher standard of living and higher economy rate of people in Delhi, the property rates have increased exponentially. Any home for sale in Delhi calls for a much higher rate than what is available in near by areas.

Buying a house in Delhi is no more a joke. For people who want to rent, sell, or buy flats, apartments, villas or any other property in Delhi some real estate communities have been made. Here they can openly discuss their needs and demands. These real estate communities are accessible both through physical contact addresses and through web sites. The web sites provide all kinds of Delhi Property News and also have lots of classifieds.

They offer a wide range of options depending on the budget and requirements of an individual, which eventually helps a person to find the best place according to his or her own choice. Delhi’s Property market is growing rapidly; this is not only for residential property but also includes all kinds of commercial property as well. This is because of the expansion of its information technology industry and the simultaneous growth of its middle class. And with this growth in the capital city, the entire nation is heading towards a more developed and liberal India.

Coimbatore is a Growing City in India

Coimbatore is the second largest city of Tamil Nadu and one of the fastest growing cities in India. The city is situated on the banks of the river Noyyal. Located in the shadow of the Western Ghats.Known for its pleasant climate aided by the fresh, peaceful atmosphere, cosmopolitan outlook and private enterprise. History of which dates back to the Sangam age. It is found that in early days the area was inhabited by tribes, the most predominant among them being the Kosars who are reported to have had their headquarters at Kosampathur which probably later became the present Coimbatore.

The Textile Capital of South India is one of the most industrialised cities in the state. The rich black soil of the region has contributed to the flourishing agriculture industry and it is in fact that the successful growth of cotton that served as a foundation for the establishment of its famous textile industry. There are two good water theme parks Black Thunder Near Ooty foot hills and Kovai Kondattam enroute to Siruvani Dam which are great to visit. Temples include Eachanaari Vinayaga Temple in Pollachi road, Marudhamalai Hill Temple and Anubhavi Subramniar temple which has a natural spring that spurts water throughout the year. Perur Siva Temple is Asias biggest statue of Lord Ganesha temple in Puliakulam. Other places of worship include Kottai Hidayathul Islam Safia Jamath Mosque in Kottaimedu.

Forest College temple is located about 3 km north of the Coimbatore Railway Station. The College is one of the oldest institutions of its kind in the country. The museum of the College is a must visit. This museum has an interesting collection of rocks, pests, snakes, insects and fossils of plants and animals. The VOC Park is named after the famous freedom fighter V O Chidambaram. It is an interesting place to visit along with children. Some of the main attractions within the park include the aquarium, having a good collection of different species of fish, a mini zoo and models of prehistoric dinosaurs. Apart from these children can also enjoy themselves on swing, slider, seesaw, toy train and other play equipment.

Agriculture University is definitely an interesting place to visit. It is situated about 5 kms away from the Coimbatore railway station and is considered as one of the best institutions of its kind in South Asia. The university includes a botanical garden which is the main source of attraction here. The garden here owns a wide range of species of flowering plants and trees.

Measures Needed Areas in Agriculture

. Enhancing agricultural productivity, competitiveness, and rural growthEnhancing productivity: Creating a more productive, internationally competitive and diversified agricultural sector would require a shift in public expenditures away from subsidies towards productivity enhancing investments. Second it will require removing the restrictions on domestic private trade to improve the investment climate and meet expanding market opportunities.

Third, the agricultural research and extension systems need to be strengthened to improve access to productivity enhancing technologies. The diverse conditions across India suggest the importance of regionally differentiated strategies, with a strong focus on the lagging states.Improving Water Resource and Irrigation/Drainage Management: Increase in multi-sectoral competition for water highlights the need to formulate water policies and unbundle water resources management from irrigation service delivery.

Other key priorities include: (i) modernizing Irrigation and Drainage Departments to integrate the participation of farmers and other agencies in irrigation management; (ii) improving cost recovery; (iii) rationalizing public expenditures, with priority to completing schemes with the highest returns; and (iv) allocating sufficient resources for operations and maintenance for the sustainability of investments.Strengthening rural non-farm sector growth: Rising incomes are fueling demand for higher-value fresh and processed agricultural products in domestic markets and globally, which open new opportunities for agricultural diversification to higher value products (e.g. horticulture, livestock), agro-processing and related services.

The government needs to shift its role from direct intervention and overregulation to creating the enabling environment for private sector participation and competition for agribusiness and more broadly, the rural non-farm sector growth. Improving the rural investment climate includes removing trade controls, rationalizing labor regulations and the tax regime (i.e. adoption of the value added tax system), and improving access to credit and key infrastructure (e.g. roads, electricity, ports, markets).2. Improving access to assets and sustainable natural resource useBalancing poverty reduction and conservation priorities: Finding win-win combinations for conservation and poverty reduction will be critical to sustainable natural resource management. This will involve addressing legal, policy and institutional constraints to devolving resource rights, and transferring responsibilities to local communities.I

mproving access to land: States can build on the growing consensus to reform land policy, particularly land tenancy policy and land administration system. States that do not have tenancy restrictions can provide useful lessons in this regard. Over the longer term, a more holistic approach to land administration policies, regulations and institutions is necessary to ensure tenure security, reduce costs, and ensure fairness and sustainability of the system.Improving access to rural finance: It would require improving the performance of regional rural banks and rural credit cooperatives by enhancing regulatory oversight, removing government control and ownership, and strengthening the legal framework for loan recovery and the use of land as collateral. It would also involve creating an enabling environment for the development of micro-finance institutions in rural areas.3. Strengthening institutions for the poor and promoting rural livelihoodPromoting Community-Based Rural Development: State Government efforts in scaling up livelihood and community-driven development approaches will be critical to build social capital in the poorest areas as well as to expand savings mobilization, promote productive investments, income generating opportunities and sustainable natural resource management. Direct support to self-help groups, village committees, user’s associations, savings and loans groups and others can provide the initial ’push’ to move organizations to higher level and access to new economic opportunities. Moreover, social mobilization and particularly the empowerment of women’s groups, through increased capacity for collective action will provide communities with greater "voice" and bargaining power in dealing with the private sector, markets and financial services.
Strengthening Accountability for Service Delivery:
As decentralization efforts are pursued and local governments are given more prominence in the basic service delivery, the establishment of accountability mechanisms becomes critical. Local governments’ capacity to identify local priorities through participatory budgeting and planning needs to be strengthened. This, in turn, would improve the rural investment climate, facilitating the involvement of the private sector, creating employment opportunities and linkages between farm and non-form sectors

Applications of agricultural Inputs

Applications of agricultural inputs at uniform rates across the field without due regard to in-field variations in soil fertility and crop conditions does not yield desirable results in terms of crop yield. The management of in-field variability in soil fertility and crop conditions for improving the crop production and minimizing the environmental impact is the crux of precision farming.

Thus, the information on spatial variability in soil fertility status and crop conditions is a pre-requisite for adoption of precision farming. Space technology including global positioning system (GPS) and GIS holds good promise in deriving information on soil attributes and crop yield, and allows monitoring seasonally- variable soil and crop characteristics, namely soil moisture, crop-phenology, growth, evapotranspiration, nutrient deficiency, crop disease, and weed and insect infestation, which, in turn, help in optimizing inputs and maximizing crop yield and income.

Though widely adopted in developed countries, the adoption of precision farming in India is yet to take a firm ground primarily due to its unique pattern of land holdings, poor infrastructure, lack of farmers’ inclination to take risk, socio-economic and demographic conditions. Factors Contribution to Decline of Agriculture:Slow Down in Agricultural and Rural Non-Farm Growth: Both the poorest as well as the more prosperous ‘Green Revolution’ states of Punjab, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh have recently witnessed a slow-down in agricultural growth and it ultimately lead for farmer’s suicide.

Some of the factors hampering the revival of growth are: • Poor composition of public expenditures: Public spending on agricultural subsidies is crowding out productivity-enhancing investments such as agricultural research and extension, as well as investments in rural infrastructure, and the health and education of the rural people. In 1999/2000, agricultural subsidies amounted to 3 percent of GDP and were over 7 times the public investments in the sector.• Over-regulation of domestic agricultural trade: While economic and trade reforms in the 1990s helped to improve the incentive framework, over-regulation of domestic trade has increased costs, price risks and uncertainty, undermining the sector’s competitiveness.• Government interventions in labor, land, and credit markets: More rapid growth of the rural non-farm sector is constrained by government interventions in factor markets -- labor, land, and credit -- and in output markets, such as the small-scale reservation of enterprises.• Inadequate infrastructure and services in rural areas. Infrastructure is also a significant factor in the process of development but country like our rural Bharat has not posses the infrastructure such as roads, electricity, fertilizer and pesticides availability which caused the vulnerable damage to the growth of agriculture. Weak Framework for Sustainable Water Management and Irrigation: Inequitable allocation of water: Many states lack the incentives, policy, regulatory, and institutional framework for the efficient, sustainable, and equitable allocation of water. Deteriorating irrigation infrastructure: Public spending in irrigation is spread over many uncompleted projects. In addition, existing infrastructure has rapidly deteriorated as operations and maintenance is given lower priority.Inadequate Access to Land and Finance: Stringent land regulations discourage rural investments: While land distribution has become less skewed, land policy and regulations to increase security of tenure (including restrictions or bans on renting land or converting it to other uses) have had the unintended effect of reducing access by the landless and discouraging rural investments.Computerization of land records has brought to light institutional weaknesses: State government initiatives to computerize land records have reduced transaction costs and increased transparency, but also brought to light institutional weaknesses.

Rural poor have little access to credit: While India has a wide network of rural finance institutions, many of the rural poor remain excluded, due to inefficiencies in the formal finance institutions, the weak regulatory framework, high transaction costs, and risks associated with lending to agriculture.Weak Natural Resources Management: One quarter of India’s population depends on forests for at least part of their livelihoods.A purely conservation approach to forests is ineffective: Experience in India shows that a purely conservation approach to natural resources management does not work effectively and does little to reduce poverty.Weak resource rights for forest communities: The forest sector is also faced with weak resource rights and economic incentives for communities, an inefficient legal framework and participatory management, and poor access to markets. Weak delivery of basic services in rural areas:Low bureaucratic accountability and inefficient use of public funds: Despite large expenditures in rural development, a highly centralized bureaucracy with low accountability and inefficient use of public funds limit their impact on poverty. In 1992, India amended its Constitution to create three tiers of democratically elected rural local governments bringing governance down to the villages. However, the transfer of authority, funds, and functionaries to these local bodies is progressing slowly, in part due to political vested interests. The poor are not empowered to contribute to shaping public programs or to hold local governments accountable.

Agriculture in India: Issues and Challenges

Agriculture is the backbone of the Indian Economy”- said Mahatma Gandhi five decades ago. Even today, as we enter the new millennium, the situation is still the same, with almost the entire economy being sustained by agriculture, which is the mainstay of the villages. Not only the economy, but also every one of us looks up to agriculture for our sustenance too. Significance of Agriculture:Although agriculture contributes only 21% of India’s GDP, its importance in the country’s economic, social, and political fabric goes well beyond this indicator.

The rural areas are still home to some 72 percent of the India’s 1.1 billion people, a large number of whom are poor. Most of the rural poor depend on rain-fed agriculture and fragile forests for their livelihoods.The sharp rise in foodgrain production during India’s Green Revolution of the 1970s enabled the country to achieve self-sufficiency in foodgrains and stave off the threat of famine. Agricultural intensification in the 1970s to 1980s saw an increased demand for rural labor that raised rural wages and, together with declining food prices, reduced rural poverty.Sustained, although much slower, agricultural growth in the 1990s reduced rural poverty to 26.3 percent by 1999/00.

Since then, however, the slowdown in agricultural growth has become a major cause for concern. India’s rice yields are one-third of China’s and about half of those in Vietnam and Indonesia. With the exception of sugarcane, potato and tea, the same is true for most other agricultural commodoties.The Government of India places high priority on reducing poverty by raising agricultural productivity.

However, bold action from policymakers will be required to shift away from the existing subsidy-based regime that is no longer sustainable, to build a solid foundation for a highly productive, internationally competitive, and diversified agricultural sector.Issues and ChallengesIt is here the challenge arises considering the implementation of the technology at various levels in the Global community. The need of the hour is not application of the technology but the adoption of appropriate technology, which would suit the particular level of the global community. In India, the farming practices are too haphazard and non-scientific and hence need some forethought before implementing any new technology.