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March 1-15, 2004 Edition

Bertelsmann to Expand

Publishing and TV

Interests in India

LONDON/2/25/04 —Media conglomerate Bertelsmann plans an aggressive joint venture and expansion into India with the launch of a subsidiary and/or investment in Indian media during the next few months.

CEO Gunther Thielen said the company would set up a single entity, either wholly or partially owned by Bertlesmann, to oversee all of its business interests in that country.

Bertlesmann apparently intends to begin by enlarging its publishing activities there. Random House, owned by Bertlesmann, is already developing an expanded presence in India through partnerships. The company is also looking at possible television acquisitions and other business operations.