This was announced by K Srinivasan, chief operating officer, PentaMedia Graphics at a press conference in Mumbai. "EGO 2001 will be a forum for delegates from across the world to exchange views on a common platform," said Mr Srinivasan. Laying emphasis on digital technology as the future, he said the scenario would lead to the emergence of a more mature IT industry in India. According to Mr Srinivasan, the animation industry worldwide is worth $30 billion. "The market in The Philippines contributes about eighteen per cent of this figure," he said. India, he added, with foreign collaboration could emerge as one of the largest markets. Among the key participants at EGO 2001 are Disney, 20th Century Fox, Reliance Entertainment and Star. IBM India will be the primary sponsors of EGO 2001.

According to Alok Ohrie, Country Manager - ESG Channels, IBM India, there was a large market for graphics in India. "A large portion of this $58 million market comes from digital content," he said. He added that India should capitalise on its skills to expand its presence in the digital content market. Dr Prasad Medury, managing director, SGI India said the worldwide digital economy contributed to more than half of the global economy. "India's opportunity lies in asset digitisation," he explained. EGO 2001, he added, would be India's chance to experience the best practices in the world.