It is surprising why there are doubts about the resilience of the traditional Indian retailer. The ICRIER report on the "Impact of Organized Retailing on the Unorganized Sector" provides clear evidence of the competitive spirit of the kirana stores.

AUGUSTA - In one of the nation's most closely watched Senate races, six-term Rep. Tom Allen is challenging two-term incumbent Sen. Susan Collins in an election that will help determine whether the Democrats can hold on to their thin Senate majority.

Gold fell over $15 to as low as $789.15 by late trade in Asia before it rose to see a $3.60 gain at $808.50 by midmorning in New York, but it then fell back off for most of the rest of trade and ended with a loss of 0.2%. Silver fell fifty cents and $12.5

The credit crunch is turning many bank-loan applicants into four-legged circus performers -- the ones that have to jump through a series of flaming hoops to get their rewards.

Fourteen groups representing small business owners and the self-employed yesterday demanded an end to violent protests and for the government to take strong action.