
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. Power & Energy Society



October 12 - 15, 2008

VENUE: InterContinental The Grand, New Delhi, India

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About Delhi

Spread over an area of about 1485 sq. km at an altitude of 216 m above mean sea level and with a population of 10.1 million, Delhi is the third largest city. Main languages spoken in Delhi are Hindi, Punjabi and English. During Conference time (mid-October) temperature is generally expected to be varying from 20 to 30 degree Celsius with relative humidity less than 50%.

The city consists of two parts - Old Delhi and New Delhi. Old Delhi was the capital of India between 17th and 19th centuries. In Old Delhi one will find many mosques, monuments and forts relating to India's Islamic history. New Delhi, the imperial city was created as the capital of India by the British. In addition to its historic interest and role as the government center, Delhi is a major travel gateway.

The city of Delhi covers most of the National Capital Territory of Delhi, which is a federal district similar to Washington DC, Canberra, or Brasilia. In 1911, the British asked Architect Lutyens to give new meaning to city development, which is reflected in the architectural designs and sophistication that buildings in Delhi have, like, Parliament House, Rashtrapati Bhavan, India Gate, Connaught Place and various administrative buildings, like, the South and North blocks along the breathtaking view available from Raj Path. Modern Delhi has something for everyone and that is amply reflected in the cosmopolitan culture that nurtures festivals of all faiths and religions, places of worship. One can take a stroll at his own leisurely pace, or a jog or a run and move faster than a common man. This is also reflected in the market places, the dhabas and restaurants or the gorgeous five star hotels. Theatre, drama and entertainment of all sorts including discotheques are all there. Delhi is one city from where one can branch off to any corner of the country either by a well-connected system of railways or by road and air. Places of tourist attraction are Red Fort, India Gate, Qutub Minar, Old Fort, Bahai Temple, Humayun's Tomb, Jantar Mantar, Safdarjung Tomb, Birla Mandir, Lodi's Tomb, Dilli Haat, Chandni Chowk, Rashtrapati Bhavan, National Museum, Iskon Temple, etc.

Delhi - The Conference Venue

Delhi (28° 38' N, 77° 10' E) is the third largest city in India. Its multi - layered existence is tantalizing, and can entice the curious traveller into a fascinating journey of discovery. Delhi is one of the most historic capitals in the world and two of its monuments- the Qutub Minar and Humayun's Tomb - have been declared World Heritage Sites. It is also one of the greenest capitals. For the visitor, it serves as a perfect introduction to the cultural wealth, the complexities and dynamism of India.

Delhi, the capital of India, has always occupied a strategic position in the country's histor. Delhi, is today, one of the fastest growing cities of India.

Delhi, besides being the seat of the Central Government, has an economy supported by agriculture, tourism, commerce and a growing industry. With the development of infrastructure facilities, Delhi plays host to a number of national and international events including sports - related events, conferences and seminars.

Some quick facts about Delhi:
Population: 10.1 million
Area: 1,483 sq km
Area code: 011 (drop the 0 when calling from outside India)
Languages spoken: mainly Hindi, English, Punjabi and Urdu

TIME

Indian Standard Time is 5.30 hours ahead of UTC.

Climate

Winter: October to March - 20°C (average).
Summer: April to September - 38°C (average).

BUSINESS HOURS

Normally all offices are operational from 10.00 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. Bank working hours are 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. on weekdays and 10.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m. on Saturdays.

CURRENCY & CREDIT CARDS

The Indian Rupee consists of a 100 paise. Most foreign currencies and travellers cheques can be changed into Indian Rupees at the airport, hotels, banks and Conference / Exhibition venues. Foreign delegates are required to pay their hotel bills in foreign currency. At present (January 2008) the exchange rate is USD 1 = Indian Rupees 40. Credit cards, such as American Express, Visa and Master Cards are widely accepted in hotels, major shops and restaurants.

CUSTOM CLEARANCE

For speedy clearance through customs, all delegates are advised to come through the green channel, unless they have dutiable articles such as electronics, gold jewellery etc. Upon arrival in India, visitors should give the custom authorities a written undertaking on a Tourist Baggage re-export form, which states that you will carry back all high value articles at the time of exit.

ELECTRIC CURRENT / VIDEOS

Line voltage is 220 volts AC/50 Hz. 5 Star hotels provide 110-volt plug point outlets also. Video-cassettes operate on VHS-PAL-SECAM System.

RESTAURANTS / FOOD

India, known around the world for its exquisite spicy food, is a gastronomic delight. International cuisine such as Continental, Chinese, etc. prepared to suit palates from across the world are easily available at excellent hotels and restaurants in the capital city and other metros. The choice of vegetarian food in India is unlimited.

TRANSPORT & COMMUNICATIONS

Delhi is on the map of major International Airlines. Indian Airlines, private airlines and Indian Railways link Delhi to all major places in India.

We will arrange reception counter at International airport at New Delhi. Chauffeur driven cars and metered taxies are freely available. Kindly send your arrival details to arrange them well in advance.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

In addition to a valid passport, all visitors require a visa which may be obtained from the Indian Embassy / High Commission / Consulate in the country of the visitor. "Visa on arrival" is not granted in India and passengers not having a valid visa are liable to be deported. For obtaining visa, if you need invitation letter for Congress, please write to Congress Secretariat well in advance and make a specific request.

Multiple entry visa should be required for entry to neighbouring countries - Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh or Nepal and re-entering India.

RESTRICTIONS

There are no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency or travellers' cheques a tourist may bring into India provided he makes a declaration in the Currency Declaration Form given to him on arrival.

Citizens of all countries require a valid national passport or valid travel documents and valid visa granted by Indian Missions abroad for entering India.

Restrictions on Export of Articles: Export of all wild animals indigenous to the country and articles made from such listed animals like skins, pelts, furs, ivory, rhino horns, trophies etc. are not allowed.

SHOPPING

Various handicrafts, antiques, handloom articles, silverware, carpets and rugs are easily available. The shopping arcades include government emporia like Central Cottage Industries Emporium.

INSURANCE

Delegates are advised to take adequate personal insurance and cover for personal travel, baggage, accident or illness. The Organisers will not be liable for any personal accidents or loss/damage of private belongings of delegates during the Conference/Exhibition.