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Another Singh for Finance

Montek Singh Ahluwalia, deputy chairman of  the Planning commission. is the most-preferred choice of the Indian Industry to become India's next finance minister.

Capital market expert Prithvi Haldea said Capital market expert Prithvi Haldea said the finance ministry should go to Ahluwalia.

Real estate leader DLF clearly favoured Montek to move to North Block on Raisina Hill that houses the finance ministry.

Taurus Mutual Fund's Managing Director R K Gupta says, "I believe finance portfolio might go to Ahluwalia as he is a close friend of the PM."

Home for Chidambaram

Interestingly, India Inc wants Congress leader P Chidambaram to remain India's home minister.

Prithvi Haldea says Chidamabarm is the best person to hold the portfolio. Many honchos expressed the same point.  

Welcoming with open arms

India Inc loves Rahul Gandhi.

Almost everyone wants Rahul to be the part of the new  Cabinet. But none was specific about the portfolio.

"We hope to see Rahul Gandhi in the Cabinet," Ispat Industries' vice chairman and managing director Vinod Mittal said, adding that age was not a criteria to be a dynamic leader and minister.

Brokerage firm SMC Capital's Equity Head Jaganaddham Thunuguntla said: "It will be good to have him (Rahul) in the Cabinet to give him exposure."

Thumbs Up for Tharoor

UN-official-turned-politician Shashi Tharoor also figured in the wish-list of industrialists for a place in the Cabinet.

"Tharoor, who has a good knowledge of commerce and international affairs cannot be ruled out as a potential candidate," Gupta said.

Pilot on India Inc radar

A cross-section of investors, industrialists and analysts also feel younger politicians -- like Sachin Pilot -- should be given important ministerial responsibilities.

Will Deora make it?

 A large corporate house want Murli Deora to be back as petroleum minister, or to be replaced by his son Milind.

Chennai Calling

 Dayanadhi Maran is another India Inc favourite. Gupta says Maran could be brought back to the telecom and IT ministry.

Jairam means business

Many corporate heads feel Jairam Ramesh should be given the charge of Commerce and Industry, while some say Kamal Nath is the preferred choice.