Dear Reader,

Greetings. This issue covers aspects of Indian economy with a focus on Assam, The North East state, which is going through a great turnaround in its economy and is poised to become the hub of trade and commerce and the gateway to South East Asia in the wake of the prospects of the reopening of the historic Stilwell Road following talks between China, Myanmar and India.

We have made this issue as readable and interesting as possible, including stories of serious content, analytical articles a travelogue and good research based reviews of the progress and potential of some countries we have been watching closely in recent times.
Travel and Tourism is no more a leisure activity, patronized by the idle rich. It has grown into a global business, touching the lives of millions of people, a bulk of them living in poor countries.

Tourism is connectivity. Tourism brings people face to face. Tourism enables people to give each other the best they could offer. Rising incomes, vastly improved travel facilities and the widespread Information Technology and Telecommunications network have given a great fillip to the travel and tourism industry across the world.

It is no surprise that Mr Tarun Gogoi, the far sighted, dynamic Chief Minister of Assam, is seriously highlighting Assam as a tourist destination. Assam's geographical position at the foot of North East Himalayas makes it one of the most majestic locations in India. The mountainous backdrop and the presence of River Brahmaputra have always given it a divine aura. The hills and valleys, the waterfalls, the temples and large expanses of rice fields make Assam truly awesome. We have stories of considerable length and substance to spotlight Assam's economic upswing.

The heartening aspect of Assam's rebirth and growth is that big time investors are convinced of the potential Assam holds as a business location. The drawbacks are there, but very few really care now. And the reason? The State's hardworking, ever dedicated and committed Chief Minister Mr Tarun Gogoi who, I suspect, sleeps with Assam on his mind and wakes up with Assam on his mind.

A broad based economic study conducted by Indicus Analytics and presented by New Media has foreseen an annual growth rate of 9.6 per cent GDP for 2010-2020. The study predicts per capita income growth which implies an increase in household expenditures and expenditure on travel, healthcare, education and recreation which combine to make lives better.

In this issue we have brought to your attention countries which have braced themselves up to face economic challenges and come up as examples of resilience and brilliant management.

Wish you happy reading

Satya Swaroop
Managing Editor
satya@newmediacomm.biz