Today’s competitive job market requires applicants to distinguish themselves, and international education experience is the perfect way to do so. Having international education experience is an incredible resume booster, as it shows prospective employers that the applicants are motivated, independent, and generally more qualified.

Study tour of India will give students a fresh perspective on themselves, India, and the world. By visiting a foreign country such as India, students will constantly challenge themselves in many new and exciting ways and gain a level of independence they never knew they had. Study tour will expose them to diverse people and viewpoints, and they will get to experience a different way of life apart from their own in the USA or Canada. They will be immersed in the language, culture, and people of the host country.

The only way to begin to understand Asia’s and India’s influence in the global economy is to visit the region, meet its corporate executives and business leaders, and experience its long history and rich culture first-hand. Students will gain international experience in

Asia and develop an appreciation of the cultural dimensions of doing business in Asia. Study tour of India may enable students to earn credit towards their current degree.

THE INDUS FOUNDATION, USA
The Indus Foundation is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to building bridges of understanding between the people of India and other countries. The Foundation is well established in India for over 10 years, with its own extensive network of offices. It is committed to assisting American and Canadian colleges and universities for organizing study tours of India. Best known as “India Specialists”, the Foundation is headquartered in New Jersey, USA, for effectively serving the interests of American and Canadian colleges and universities.

STUDY TOUR OF INDIA
The Indus Foundation is prepared to partner with American and Canadian colleges and universities in the creation of custom designed international study programs that promote global awareness and understanding. The Foundation’s goal is to support administrators and faculty in the complex task of developing, operating, and managing faculty-led study tours of India. The Foundation provides colleges and universities with comprehensive program management that includes: program development assistance, tour itinerary, logistical arrangements, transportation in India, academic coordination in India, and on-site management in India. A representative of the Foundation will accompany the group and faculty.

The customized study tour program will be based on the information provided by individual American / Canadian institutions to the Indus Foundation. The duration of the study tour may range from 10 to 21 days. The size of the tour may be 20 to 30 participants. The tour will cover major cities of India such as New Delhi, Bombay, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Calcutta, and other cities. Students will have the opportunity to visit key corporate offices, industrial parks, and historic sites, in addition to meeting with leading academicians and entrepreneurs. The study tour of India will expose participants to the global cultural and business environment, so that they can see first-hand how fast-growing economies in developing countries provide opportunities for international businesses. Given below is a model of the itinerary of a study tour of India for 10 days.

A MODEL OF STUDY TOUR OF INDIA ITINERARY (10 DAYS)

NEW DELHI
Day 1, Day 2, Day 3
Arrive in New Delhi from U.S.A. / Canada
Meeting with Commercial Counselor, American Embassy, New Delhi
Meeting with CEO, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation
Meeting with CEO, Citigroup India
Meeting with President & M.D., Portalplayer India
Meeting with Chief Mentor, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)
Visit industry sites: Maruti Udyog, NIIT (BPO), Purolator IndiaCuisine: Authentic Mughlai Cuisine in central Connaught Place.
Music and Art: The myriad cultural, musical and art forms of India at Dilli HaatSightseeing and shopping in New Delhi:
Qutab Minar, Red Fort, Indira Gandhi Memorial, Indian Parliament, Swami Narayan Temple, Cottage Industries Emporium, India International Trade Fair, Lotus Temple

BANGALORE
Day 4, Day 5, Day 6
Arrive in Bangalore
Visit Indian Institute of Management
Meeting with Commercial Specialist, US Consulate, Bangalore
Meeting with Executive Director, PricewaterhouseCoopers
Meeting with President, UT Worldwide (India)
Visit Indian Institute of Science (IIS)
Visits to Indian corporate offices: Infosys / Wipro, Biocon,
Visit International Technology Park
Visit industry sites: HAL, BHEL, MICODance: Indian dance at Nrityagram Dance Village
Religion and Philosophy: Whitefield set up by Sai Baba
Pub crawling: Best beer in the world at Polo Club / Royal DerbySightseeing in Bangalore:
Bangalore Palace, Mysore Palace, Vidhan Soudha, ISCKON Temple, Cauvery

BOMBAY (MUMBAI)
Day 7, Day 8, Day 9
Arrive Bombay (Mumbai)
Visit Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)
Meeting with American Consul General, Mumbai
Meeting with President & CEO, Coca-Cola India
Meeting with Managing Director, Cabot India
Meeting with Director, Forbes Marshall Group
Visit Bombay Stock Exchange
Visit industry sites: Hindustan Lever, Reliance, VSNLResearch: Visit Tata Institute of Fundamental Research
Movie making: Film city where Indian movies are made
Cricket: Witness a cricket match, the most popular sport in IndiaSightseeing and shopping in Mumbai:
Elephanta Caves, Prince of Wales Museum, Sir J.J.School of Art, Gandhi Memorial, Dhobi Ghat, Kanheri cavesDay 10Depart Mumbai for U.S.A. / Canada

COVERAGE OF THE TOUR
The tour covers the following :
Visits to key corporate offices, industrial parks, and historic sites.
One-on-one meetings with leading academicians and entrepreneurs.
Visits to places of cultural interest for experiencing rich Indian culture.
An experienced tour leader for guiding the participants.
Air travel within the India to various cities.
Accommodations at first class hotels on twin sharing basis.
Visa Assistance and government approvals.
Ground transportation in the Indian sub-continent.The cost of food is not covered (around $ 30 per day person).Round trip to India (costs around $ 1200 per person) is not covered.Entry fee of monuments is not covered.

On-Site Coordinator
The program includes the services of an English-speaking On-Site Coordinator. This person or his representative will meet the group flight upon arrival and will be available to assist the faculty leader throughout the program. Services include:

1. Confirmation and coordination of all program activities and arrangements
2. Assistance with transfers
3. Facilitation of hotel check-in and check-out
4. Interpretation
5. Handling of all appointments
6. Assistance with local information and suggestions for free time
7. Liaison with Indian officials, leaders, etc.

Faculty Leader
The faculty leader will act as a liaison between the student group and representatives of the Indus Foundation.

INDIAN CITIES
India is a sovereign country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by geographical area, the second most populous country, and the most populous liberal democracy in the world. Bounded by the Indian Ocean on the south, the Arabian Sea on the west, and the Bay of Bengal on the east, India has a coastline of over 7500 kilometers. It borders Pakistan to the west; China, Nepal, and Bhutan to the northeast; and Bangladesh and Myanmar to the east. In the Indian Ocean, India is in the vicinity of Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Indonesia.Home to the Indus Valley civilization and a region of historic trade routes and vast empires, the Indian subcontinent was identified with its commercial and cultural wealth for much of its long history. Four major world religions, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism originated here, while Islam, Christianity, Judaism and Zoroastrianism arrived in the first millennium CE and shaped the region's variegated culture. Gradually annexed by the British East India Company from the early eighteenth century and colonized by the United Kingdom from the mid-nineteenth century, India became a modern nation-state in 1947 after a struggle for independence that was marked by widespread use of nonviolent resistance as a means of social protest.With the world's twelfth largest economy by market exchange rates and the third largest in purchasing power, India has made rapid economic progress in the last decade. Although the country's standard of living is projected to rise sharply in the next half-century, it currently battles high levels of poverty, illiteracy, persistent malnutrition, and environmental degradation. In addition to being a pluralistic, multi-lingual, and multi-ethnic society, India is also home to a diversity of wildlife in a variety of protected habitats and national parks.

AGRA (TAJ MAHAL)
Described by the Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore as "a tear-drop on the face of eternity", the Taj Mahal is an enduring monument to love and is, quite simply, one of the world's most marvelous buildings. Wholly concealing it is the massive red sandstone gateway, remarkable in itself, in preventing any glimpse of the tomb until you get the first breathtaking view of the Taj as you pass through the arch. The fifth of the great Mughal emperors, Shah Jahan, was devoted to his wife Mumtaz Mahal who died at the age of 39. It is said that on her deathbed she asked him to show the world how much they loved each other. The result was the most magnificent memorial on earth. Built in the early 16th century along the river Yamuna, many architects have rated it as the most perfect of all buildings standing on earth. Three artists designed it: a Persian, an Italian and a Frenchman. Even the skilled artisans who built it were brought from Baghdad, Constantinople, and other centers of the Muslim faith. For 22 years, more than 20,000 workmen labored to build the Taj. The Maharaja of Jaipur sent the marble as a gift to Shah Jahan, by a fleet of 1,000 elephants. Precious stones for the inlay came from Baghdad, China, Afghanistan and Ceylon. Sightseeing: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri.

AHMEDABAD
Ahmedabad was named after the Sultan Ahmed Shah, who built the city in 1411. Also called the "Manchester of the East', today, it is one of the most highly industrialized cities of India.Historically, Ahmedabad was a major base camp during the Indian freedom struggle. Mahatma Gandhi built the Sabarmati Ashram on the outskirts of the city, from where he guided India to freedom. Today Ahmedabad, more than any other Indian city represents non-violence and peace.Ahmedabad is also the textile city of India. Though the city has developed more as a business and commercial center, it also holds attraction as a center for the study of Indo-Saracenic architecture, a style that fuses elements of Hindu and Islamic architecture.The old city of Ahmedabad is dotted with labyrinth of by lanes called pols. The exquisitely carved wooden mansions are beautiful examples of the craftsmanship of the time.Although it is no longer the capital of Gujarat, Ahmedabad remains the second largest industrial city in western India.

Population: Approx 3.8 million

AURANGABAD
The city that Mughal emperor Aurangzeb built in the dusk of his empire is Aurangabad, the city that is base to the marvels of man - the Ajanta and Ellora caves. Situated in Maharashtra, Aurangabad today is a thriving industrial metropolis and apart from being the jump-off point for Maharashtra's most celebrated tourist attraction, it also merits as one of the cleanest cities in the country.With a lot to offer the avid tourist including incredible Deccan Mughal architecture, the most pleasant feature of Aurangabad is its inhabitants. Retaining the charms and mannerisms of the Nizams, they are courteous, polite and extremely helpful.If the Ajanta and Ellora caves figure in your travel plans, as they should, make it a point to spend a couple of days in Aurangabad. You will not be disappointed.

Population: Approx 2.9 million

BANGALORE (BENGALURU)
Bengaluru is one of Asia's fastest growing cities. Situated at an altitude of 920 meters above sea level, Bengaluru is the principal administrative, cultural, commercial and industrial centre of the state of Karnataka. Spread over an area of 2190 square kilometers, Bengaluru enjoys a pleasant and equable climate throughout the year. Tree-lined streets and abundant greenery made it the 'Garden City' of India.

However, since local entrepreneurs and technology giant Texas Instruments discovered its potential as a high-tech city in the early 1980s, Bengaluru has seen a major technology boom and is now home to more than 250 high-tech companies, including homegrown giants like Wipro and Infosys. The erstwhile garden city has now been pegged the 'Silicon Valley' of India.To give you a little background, Bengaluru was founded by Kempe Gowda in the early 16th century. Two centuries later, it became an important fortress city under rulers Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. The ruins of those periods can still be seen on the Bellary Road, at Lal Bagh, Ulsoor and Gavi Gangadhareswar Temple.The people in the city are warm, hospitable and friendly. Bengaluru is generally regarded as a place that most visitors like to chill out in. Not to say that it has nothing for the people interested in history. Along with the modern day pubs, discos and hangouts, one can still see remnants of the older Bengaluru. All in all, a lovely city to visit.

Population: About 6.5 million

CHANDIGARH
Chandigarh is the twin capital of the northern states of Punjab and Haryana. However, it belongs to neither state. It is a union territory and is directly under the administration of the Indian government. It is one of the youngest cities in India and the main languages spoken are Hindi and Punjabi.The town derives its name from Goddess Chandi Devi whose temple stands 15-km form Chandigarh.One of the few modern planned cities in India, Chandigarh is divided into 47 self-contained sectors. Architects Albert Mayer and Mathew Novicki drew the initial plans in New York. When the latter died in an air crash in 1950, the work was entrusted to Le Corbusier, a well-known architect and planner.One can see architectural genius in the neat geometrical design of residential quarters, reinforced concrete structures and self-contained area layouts. Each sector of the city is designed with its own shops, academic, and health care buildings, places of worship, open spaces, greenery and the residential areas.

The city is divided into four major work areas. In the north, the capital complex, consisting of the Secretariat, Legislative Assembly and High Court, with the hills as a background dominating the city. Sector-17, which is the city and district center, housing the administrative and state government offices, shopping malls, banks and other offices. The west contains the university, and institutions of engineering, architecture, Asian studies and medicine. Finally the east zone, which is the industrial area of the city.

Population: About one million.

CHENNAI
Chennai (Madras) is known as the Gateway of Southern India. The East India Company developed Madras as one of the major trading centres in India. Chennai has a blend of Dravidian and Gothic architecture in its buildings. The city might have grown but it hasn't lost its traditional grace and charm. The Tamil society might have incorporated English culture but the Dravidian roots are strong as ever.

Chennai is the epitome of tradition, culture and life-style of Southern India. But like the rest of India, Chennai has over the years, developed its share of urban style and modernity. Accommodation and transportation are cheap and efficient. It is very likely that the temples you will visit in Chennai are unlike any other you have seen before. Visit the 4.5-km long Golden Marina beach - one of the longest beaches in the world. Today, Chennai is the fourth largest city in India and commands a major share in the trade from the South.Population: About 8 million.

DELHI (NEW DELHI)
Living testament to the glory of the Mughal days, patron of palaces and tombs and the capital of India, New Delhi is all of this and more. Situated about 160 kilometers south of the Himalayas and on the west bank of the Yamuna River, a tributary of the Ganges, Delhi has the distinction of being the historic hub of politics.

Delhi is as modern or ancient as you want it to be. Today's Delhi is cosmopolitan, modern and fun loving. With feasts for art and theatre lovers, concerts for the musically inclined and food that can make a gourmet cry with delight, Delhi is a place with something for everyone. People from all parts of the country inhabit Delhi. There are different cultural pockets with Punjabis being the most dominant section here. The most common languages spoken here besides English are Hindi, Punjabi and Urdu.

Population: Approx 12 million

GOA
Silver sands, sparkling blue waters, the sky mirroring the sea below, white churches resting against green paddy fields and coconut trees lining the coastal streets. Goa – a place you can fall in love with at first glance.

There's much more to Goa than sun, sand and sea. The allure of Goa is that it remains quite distinct from the rest of India and is small enough to be grasped and explored in a way that other Indian states are not. Goa became one of the youngest Indian states after 451 years of colonial rule and 26 years as Union territory. Its history dates back to the 3rd century when it belonged to the Mauryas, followed by the rule of the Satvahanas, Chalukyas, the Shilharas and Kadambas. In 1312, Goa fell into the hands of the Muslims. The Portuguese took over in 1510, ending the Muslim rule. Apart from a brief spell during the Napoleonic wars, when the British briefly occupied Goa, the Portuguese were the masters of Goa till 1961, when they were finally driven out. 450 years under Portuguese domination produced a unique blend of East and West that is both exotic and strangely familiar. Christmas and Carnival are celebrated as enthusiastically as Diwali and Durga Puja. The state's separate identity is also visible in its Latinate architecture and preference for a fish- and meat-rich cuisine. Another marked difference is the prevalence of alcohol, which is cheap in the state and is widely available. Panaji, Goa's capital since 1843, is among the most pleasant Indian capitals. Most people use it as a link to old Goa or to the beaches, but it's worth a visit. The atmosphere is easygoing and the people are friendly. In the oldest part of the town, the Portuguese heritage is evident: broad avenues spilling into cobbled squares, grand public buildings, old houses with overhanging balconies and numerous bars and cafes. On the coast itself, coconut cultivation and fishing are the major sources of income. But, tourism is the main money-spinner and the majority of the population is engaged in related business.

Population: Approximately 1.2 million

HYDERABAD
It is rare to come across a place that welcomes the 21st century with an 'adaab'. Hyderabad is one such place. There is so much here to awe the senses. From the magnificent food to the majestic monuments, from its terrific landscapes to a populace steeped in respect and tradition. Consisting of the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad, Hyderabad is also the capital of the state of Andhra Pradesh. Once the largest princely state in India, Hyderabad had its own flag, currency, railway, and postal system, before being incorporated into the Indian nation.

With a rich history, Hyderabad boasts of some fine examples of Qutab Shahi architecture - the Jami Masjid, the Mecca Masjid, Toli Masjid and of course, the impressive symbol of Hyderabad, the Charminar. A unique feature of the city is that it is the only city in the south, where the major language spoken is Urdu. Home to the Nizams, reportedly, the world's richest royals, Hyderabad is also home to famous folk arts like shadow puppetry and kuchipudi dance.

Population: About 5 million.

JAIPUR
Jaipur was founded by Maharaja Jai Singh II (1693-1743) and is the capital of Rajasthan. Jaipur is surrounded by hills and dotted with forts. Houses with pink-latticed windows line the streets, and look almost magical at sunset.

An extremely well planned city, Jaipur was designed by an engineer and scholar Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, in accordance with ancient Hindu treatise on architecture, the Shilpa Shastra (Vastu). It was planned in a grid system with wide straight avenues, roads, streets and lanes and uniform rows of shops on either side of the main roads. Jaipur remains the only place where the nine sectors that sub-divide the city symbolize the nine divisions of the universe. Jaipur is surrounded by a wall having seven gates and was built for protection from invading armies and wild animals that lurked just outside in the jungles that surrounded the city. The Old City, also known as the Pink City, is a wonderful place to wander around. The whole city was painted pink by Maharaja Man Singh II when Prince of Wales, later Edward VII, visited Jaipur in 1876. Today, every home within the city is obliged by law to maintain this facade. Jaipur’s regal heritage is evident in its architecture and culture. Beautifully laid out gardens and parks, attractive monuments and marvelous heritage hotels, once the residence of Maharajas are testaments to the Rajasthan of yesteryears. The arts and crafts of the state are amazing. You’ll find elaborately fashioned jewellery, the multi-colored ‘bandhini’ fabrics, richly decorated handlooms, and other trinkets at the colourful bazaars of Jaipur. These bazaars are a lot of fun not just what are available, but also for the cheerful people in their traditional costumes. For the first-time visitor, it is an intriguing and unforgettable experience.

Population: Approximately 2 million

KOCHI (COCHIN)
Cochin is the commercial capital of Kerala, and is sometimes referred to as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’. Cochin proudly boasts a rich cultural heritage, but is one of the most fast-paced and modern cities in India. It is also one of the finest natural harbors of the world and a major Indian port.

Cochin is basically a collection of islands and narrow peninsulas and can be divided into Ernakulam, Willingdon Island, Mattancherry and Fort Kochi. An international airport and seaport, connect Cochin to the rest of the world. The city also has an outstanding network of road, rail, backwater, and a modern communication system.Cochin was once an insignificant fishing village. When the backwaters of the Arabian Sea and the streams descending from the Ghats caused the separation of this village from the mainland and landlocked the harbor, it became one of the safest ports on India's southwestern coast. The port assumed a new strategic importance and began to enjoy commercial prosperity. When the Portuguese penetrated the Indian Ocean in the late 15th century, they arrived at India's southwestern coast. Navigator Pedro Álvares Cabral founded the first European settlement on Indian soil at Cochin in 1500. Vasco da Gama, discoverer of the sea route to India, established the first Portuguese factory (trading station) in Cochin in 1502, and the Portuguese viceroy Alfonso de Albuquerque built the first European fort in India in 1503. The city remained a Portuguese possession until the Dutch conquered it in 1663. Much Portuguese architecture still exists in the city. Always a tourist favorite, this city offers visitors plenty. Forts, palaces, museums, old churches, cool backwaters, palm fringed lagoons, beaches and the practicality of a contemporary metro.

Population: Approx 2 million

KOLKATA (CALCUTTA)
Kolkata is seen as the land of the intellectuals. Communist in ideology and very politically aware, Kolkata was the capital of British India before Delhi assumed this position. Kolkata developed from a fishermen’s' village to become one of the largest cities in the world. The city symbolizes creativity and vibrancy with all the modern amenities available. Kolkata has adapted to the modern trends and techniques of the world but has not shed the leisurely life style and the calm of its hey days. Kolkata has the country's first Metro railway and some of its buildings are more than a hundred years old. While Kolkata is a city of enduring charm, it is also a city that evokes extreme emotions. So be ready to give in to it or hate it completely. A city with strong cultural, literary and religious flavors, Kolkata acts as the gateway to the North-East.

Population: About 14 million

LUCKNOW
Welcome to a world of charm - a place that clings effortlessly to times gone by. Where appreciation of food and art is only surpassed by the importance of being polite and maintaining the strictest etiquette. Lucknow - a land where the modern exists with the ancient in a flow undisrupted by time.Lucknow has much to offer the interested visitor. From the traditional 'chikan' wear that the city is famous for, to cuisine that teases the taste buds to the people whose hospitality and charm is warmth incarnate, Lucknow is all this and more. There are monuments, which could take your breath away and this city has many a tale to tell. But lest you think that this is a city only for aficionados of history, Lucknow is also a modern city with its share of industrial belts and progress. But what will strike you as you walk the streets of this city is the ease with which you walk in from one era to now.

Population: About 4 million

MUMBAI (BOMBAY)
Mumbai is the commercial capital of India, a city of entrepreneurs, concrete towers, clubs and night clubs, cricket, Bollywood and more.The city, a cluster of seven islands, was named by its native Koli fisher folk after the goddess Mumbadevi. After the Portuguese gained possession of the islands in 1534, they renamed it Bom Bahia, for the natural harbor, which served as a safe haven for its ships. In 1661, Charles II of England received the islands of Bombay as dowry when he married Princess Catherine of Braganza. The British Government leased the islands to the East India Company, who developed it into a thriving trading port. The promise of business opportunities and religious freedom drew people to Bombay from all over the country. As the migrant population burgeoned, land was reclaimed, and the city began its haphazard metamorphosis from a trading post into a metropolis and industrial hub. The city also became a hotbed of political activity during the struggle for independence, hosting the First Indian National Congress in 1885. Nearly fifty years later, the Quit India movement was launched in Bombay. In the mid-'90s, the city was rechristened Mumbai. Today, Mumbai is the country's financial and cultural center. It is also home to a thriving film industry. It is seen by the teeming masses, who flock there to live and work, as a place where opportunities are abound. Its inhabitants, an amalgam of great wealth and abject poverty, are swept into the endless maelstrom of activity that characterizes this city of dreams.

Population: About 14 million

PUNE
The city of students, Queen of the Deccan, Oxford of the East are just some of the names that Pune is known by. Peaceful and modern with its own traditions, this neighbor to Mumbai offers a lifestyle that includes peace, space and a lot of fun. Whether it is cuisine or culture, institutions or history, Pune truly has it all. Pleasant weather means that Nature ensures the continuance of a life given to enjoying the best of it all. The birthplace of the famous leader and ruler of the Marathas Chattrapati Shivaji, Pune was the citadel of power with those in rule constantly contributing to its cultural and scholastic traditions. Today, Pune is a much sought after destination for students not only from different parts of the country but also from all over the world. Pune is also home to the Film and Television Institute and the well stocked National Film Archives. It is also the place where Rajneesh chose to open the now world famous Osho Ashram. Pubs and pool parlors, cultural festivals and theatres also make Pune a city of great variety and truly cosmopolitan. If what you are looking for is a place that will offer your senses a break from stress and everyday demands, do what the Mumbaiites do over the weekends- head for Pune.

Population: About 3 million

VISA REQUIREMENT
Visas are required for all American and Canadian citizens for entering into India. The details of the visa fees, visa application forms, etc. can be found at www.indianembassy.org, www.docuweb.ca/India. The details of consular jurisdictions are given below for the purpose of obtaining the visa.

Consular Jurisdictions :
INDIA EMBASSY OF INDIA, WASHINGTON D.C.
Consular Wing, 2536 Massachusetts Ave., N.W., Washington D.C. 20008
Tel: (202) 939-9839/9806; Fax: (202) 797-4693; rkchibber@indiagov.org; http://www.indianembassy.org/
Bahamas, Bermuda, Delaware, District of Columbia, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia.

CONSULATE GENERAL OF INDIA, NEW YORK
3 East 64th Street, New York, NY 10021
Tel: (212) 774-0600 Fax: (212) 861-3788 ; visa@indiacgny.org
Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Vermont and Virgin Islands

CONSULATE GENERAL OF INDIA, CHICAGO
455 N. Cityfront Plaza Dr., Suite 850 , Chicago, IL 60611
Tel: (312) 595-0405 Fax: (312) 595-0418; http://chicago.indianconsulate.com/
Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin

CONSULATE GENERAL OF INDIA, HOUSTON
1990 Post Oak Blvd. Suite 600, Houston, TX 77056
Tel: (713) 626-2355 Fax: (713) 626-2450, Email: cgi-hou@swbell.net, http://www.cgihouston.org/
Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Florida, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma and Texas

CONSULATE GENERAL OF INDIA, SAN FRANCISCO
540 Arguello Blvd., San Francisco, CA 94118
Tel: (415) 668-0662 Fax: (415) 668-9764; vcpv@IndianConsulate-sf.org;
http://www.indianconsulate-sf.org/
Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming

HIGH COMMISSION OF INDIA, OTTAWA
10, Octoberfield Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1M 1C9
Tel.No.613 744 3751/52/53 Fax No.613 744 0913; Email: hicomind@sprint.ca
National Capital Region of Ottawa-Hull, Kingston, Cornwall, Hawks bury, Arnprior, Renfrew, Perth, Prescott, Brockville, Carleton Place, Smith Falls, Morrisburg (Ontario), Montreal (Quebec).

CONSULATE GENERAL OF INDIA, TORONTO
1835, Yonge Street, 4th floor, Toronto, Ontario M4S 1X8
Tel.No.416 960 0751/52 Fax No.416 960 9812 ; Email: cgindia@cgitoronto.ca
Ontario and Quebec (except places falling under the jurisdiction of High Commission in Ottawa), Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland.

CONSULATE GENERAL OF INDIA, VANCOUVER
325, Howe Street, 2nd floor, Vancouver, BC V6C 1Z7
Tel.No.604 -662- 8811, Fax 604 -682- 2471; Email: indiaadmn@telus.net, http://www.cgivancouver.com/. Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, Yukon Territory and Northwest Territories.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What is the current currency exchange rate?
The currency of India is the Rupee, which is divided into 100 paise. The Rupee comes in denominations of Rs.5, Rs.10, Rs.20, Rs.50, Rs.100, Rs.500 and Rs.1000. The printing of notes in the denominations of Re.1 and Rs.2 has been discontinued as these denominations have been coinised. However, such notes issued earlier are still in circulation. The current exchange rate is US$1 = INR 40.

2. What is the population and main language used?
There are over a billion Indians today and the number is growing every year. English is commonly used in all business transactions. Ten years ago, the United States was the country with the largest English-speaking population. Today, India has taken over that status. With roughly a third of its population – or more than 300 million – possessing English language capability, India has more people speaking the language than the US and UK combined However, the main spoken languages are Hindi and Urdu. India also has 16 other major regional languages!

3. What is the climate like?
India basically has a tropical climate with three main seasons:
Summer season: April to Mid-June
Monsoon season: Late June to September
Winter season: October to March

4. What is the proper clothing to wear in India’s climate?I also hear that Indians are a more conservative lot especially compared to people in Western countries. What kind of clothes would be acceptable?
During the winter months of October to March light woolen clothes would be preferred. For the rest of the year, it can be very hot, so light, tropical clothing is advised. Shorts, minis and tank tops are unadvisable unless you're on a beach. In small towns and cities especially, people may tend to stare if you expose too much skin. Safe clothing would be trousers, peddle pushers, capris, skirts, tops and shirts. India has great cottons, which are trendy and affordable. Buy yourself some. Women could try wearing a salwar kameez, which is very cool and comfortable and could even improve the attitude of people towards them – salwar kameez are quite acceptable in Business meetings. Business attire is appropriate for business visits. We suggest that you plan to wear the same suit more than once to conserve suitcase space. Bring at least one pair of comfortable shoes!

5. What are the usual business hours in India?
Banks: 1000-1400 Mon-Fri, 1000-1200 Sat
Offices: 0930-1700 Mon-Fri, 0930-1300 Sat
Shops: 0930-1800 Mon-Sat

6. How safe is drinking water in India?
If you are from a foreign country, you may not be used to drinking the water here. Hence we advise that you pick up a bottle of mineral water, which is cheap and widely available and usually provided in flasks in hotel rooms. Order the same when you are at a restaurant. As far as possible, avoid drinking any kind of water or juices from roadside carts and vendors; and, avoid ice outside touristy places!

7. How should I tip waiters at restaurants / hotels?
In tourist restaurants or hotels a 10% service charge is often added to bills, in which case there is no need to tip. In smaller places, where tipping is optional, you need only tip a maximum of 10 percentage of your bill. It is customary to tip waiters, porters, guides and drivers.

8. How safe is it to eat non-vegetarian food in India?
Food is safe if eaten in a good hotel or restaurant.
Available: wonderful chicken and lamb dishes are offered.
Unavailable: India, being a primarily Hindu country, beef and pork are not easily available.

9. What is the economy of India like?
The economy of India is the fourth largest in the world as measured by purchasing power parity , with a gross domestic product (GDP) of US $3.611 trillion. When measured in USD exchange-rate terms, it is the twelfth largest in the world, with a GDP of US $719.8 billion (2005). India is the second fastest growing major economy in the world, with a GDP growth rate of 8.9% at the end of the first quarter of 2006-07. However, India’s huge population results in a per capita income of $3,200 at PPP and $714 at nominal exchange rates.The economy is diverse and encompasses agriculture, handicrafts, textile, manufacturing, and a multitude of services. Although two-thirds of the Indian workforce still earns their livelihood directly or indirectly through agriculture, services are a growing sector and are playing an increasingly important role of India's economy. The advent of the digital age, and the large number of young and educated populace fluent in English, is gradually transforming India as an important 'back office' destination for global companies for the outsourcing of their customer services and technical support. India is a major exporter of highly-skilled workers in software and financial services, and software engineering. India followed a socialist-inspired approach for most of its independent history, with strict government control over private sector participation, foreign trade, and foreign direct investment. However, since 1991, India has gradually opened up its markets through economic reforms by reducing government controls on foreign trade and investment. The privatization of publicly owned industries and the opening up of certain sectors to private and foreign interest has proceeded slowly amid political debate. India faces a burgeoning population and the challenge of economic and social inequality. Poverty remains a serious problem, although it has declined significantly since independence, mainly due to the green revolution and economic reforms.

10. How much money should I budget for meals?
Generally $25-$30 US per day should be sufficient to cover both lunch and dinner.

RESPONSE FORMAT
The Foundation will be pleased to assist American and Canadian colleges and universities for organizing customized study tours of India. Requests for organizing customized study tours of India must be made at least six to nine months in advance of the tour dates. Interested institutions are requested to provide the following basic information so that a customized study tour program may be developed.

Specific objectives of the tour.Number of students likely to participate in the study tour.Duration of the tour and indicative dates of the tour.Cities in India that your students would like to visit.

Any other pertinent information about the tour.

(Please note that hotel tariffs in India are now one of the highest in the world. The tariffs are increasing by around 50 percent per year because of the huge influx of foreign visitors coupled with acute shortage of star hotel rooms.)

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (optional)
Following additional information may be provided by American and Canadian colleges and universities at their option.

1. COLLABORATIVE PROGRAMS Please indicate whether your institution is interested in collaborating with Indian institutions for offering your degree and diploma programs in India. If so, please mention the specific undergraduate and graduate degree and diploma programs that your institution may like to offer.

2. TWINNING PROGRAMS Please indicate whether your institution would like to develop twinning programs with Indian institutions. If so, please mention the specific undergraduate and graduate degree and diploma programs that you may like to develop.

3. CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS Please indicate whether your institution is interested in offering certificate programs in India through Indian institutions. If so, please mention the specific undergraduate and graduate level certificate programs that your institution may like to offer.

4. STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMS Please indicate whether your institution would like to set up study abroad programs in India. If so, please mention the fields of study at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and the possible duration of the programs.

5. PARTNERSHIP PROGRAMS Please indicate whether your institution would like to establish partnership programs with Indian institutions so that students who complete 12th standard in India may be admitted as freshmen. If so, please mention the undergraduate programs to which Indian students may seek admission.

6. RECRUITMENT OF INDIAN STUDENTS Please indicate whether your institution would like to recruit students from India. If so, please mention the undergraduate and graduate programs (Degree, Diploma, and Certificate) for whichstudents may be recruited.

7. RECRUITING TOURS OF INDIA Please indicate whether your institution is interested in participating in the recruiting tours of India. If so, please mention the specific tour and the year in which your institution may like to participate.

8. ANY OTHER PERTINENT INFORMATION Please give any other pertinent information that your institution would like to share with the Foundation.