Cartoons based on news, business and politics have always been a regular feature in Indian newspapers. Cartoons.123india. com covers a spectrum of topical cartoons with special focus on the Indian scenario. It claims to be the first to launch a comprehensive online cartoon channel in India. The cartoons for the channel on business and news have been created by the cartoonist, Mr Priya Raj.

Launching the portal, Dr De Bono said, "Humour is by far the most significant phenomenon in the human mind and one of the very few ways we have of changing perceptions. I have the greatest regard for cartoonists as they are able to use humour to convert complex subjects into simple concepts and ideas."

Cartoons.123india.com contains a variety of columns. A daily management cartoon column that comments on management concepts and practices in the corporate world, Under the Pyramid, is especially targeted at corporate executives. Besides, there are Counterpoint, a daily news-based cartoon column based on business and politics; Editoon, a weekly opinion cartoon with satirical comments on topical subjects related to politics, business and social issues; and Caritoon, featuring a caricature of a personality in the news every week.

The portal also offers the facility to e-mail cartoons to a friend. A special section titled, Tutorials, offers tips and techniques on cartooning to aspiring cartoonists.

Mr Priya Raj, the cartoonist behind the portal, said at the launch, "Cartoons take a creative leap in expressing ideas and viewpoints through humour and satire. Editorial cartoons on news and business have a wide appeal. We are planning to build a large community of Indian cartoonists on the web to showcase Indian talent and reach out to Indians and cartoon lovers all over the world."