Microsoft unveils Office 2001 for Macintosh
Microsoft has announced the launch of Office 2001 for Macintosh, which is available as re-branded, repackaged, and updated with new Mac-only features. Microsoft has completely rebuilt Office to better serve the needs of Mac users, who in recent years have come to rely more heavily on the World Wide Web, electronic mail, personal organisers, digital picture files, and digital video.

MP has ideal atmosphere for growth of IT: Digvijay
Chief Minister Digvijay Singh has said that in spite of various problems, the state has conducive atmosphere for the growth of information technology (IT) industry and is making sustained efforts for its development. Inaugurating a two-day seminar on `IT-enabled services- global opportunities and roadmap for Madhya Pradesh', jointly organised by the confederation of Indian industries (CII) and Optel here on Wednesday Mr Singh urged the participants to come out with concrete suggestions so that MP could become a major IT player of the country.

Reliance asked not to expand its services in the Northeast
The Defence Ministry has directed Reliance Telecom not to spread its cellular services beyond Guwahati and Shillong in the Northeast for insurgents `may misuse it.' According to official sources, the ministry was reluctant to give permission for further extension of the cellular services in the region fearing that militants might use it extensively for carrying out their operations.

IBM Mindspan enhances portfolio of solutions
IBM Mindspan Solutions, the worldwide leader in e-learning solutions, on Wednesday announced additions to its rich portfolio of offerings including an award-winning management development training solution, enhancements to Lotus LearningSpace and new relationships with training companies. The Management Development Training School is designed to help customers improve employee leadership skills and retention rates.

EDS inks 10-yr contract with Victoria Friendly Society
EDS and Liverpool Victoria Friendly Society Limited of the UK, on Wednesday announced the signing of a 10-year contract for information technology services and solutions. At current exchange rates, the deal is valued at about $300 million over the life of the contract. Liverpool Victoria is the UK's largest member owned mutual `Friendly Society, offering a broad range of affordable and accessible financial services.

EpowerN secures $2 m in second round-funding
EpowerN Ventures, a Chennai-based technology incubator, has raised $2 million in its second round of funding from European venture capitalist Eur India. Disclosing this to The Financial Express, EpowerN Ventures, executive director, Manoj Agarwal said this amount would be invested in IT security solutions provider, EAlcatraz.