It was also by and large supported by Indian industry as a modernization of an important sector that is decrepit in many parts of the country.

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In China's "four modernization" programs, launched in the 1970s, defense modernization ranked last, behind industry, agriculture and science and technology.

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"The tests conducted so far by the GPS industry did not take into account the GPS modernization plan that is in place, " said Dr. Ashjaee.

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He has also submitted to the board a modernization plan that would bring the venue up to entertainment industry standards through capital projects, improvements in the box-office operation and refinements in management.

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But the industry and its allies pushed for more, leading to passage of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act, signed into law Feb. 14.

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