[acewin]

thanks for the overall info pimpom.
It was helpful to make me a decide.
I shorted on these models Panasonic - LUMIX DMC-FZ50, Sony - DSC-H9, Canon - PowerShot G9, Canon - PowerShot S5 IS

@gopz, thanks for suggesting Nikon D40X, I liked the specs and its an SLR, I was previously thinking there wont be any good entry level SLR by nikon, there high end SLRs are superb, but do not have much in entry level so it was good to check it. I was earlier check canon A350D which is in same price range but found D40X better rated. So it is a nice suggestion

Besides I checked cnet review and compareindia.com for ratings.
And I was overawed by the reviews for Panasonic FZ50, and as pimpom said much of my findings were the same. My friend has got Canon G7 so he had recommended me and suggested about G9 the next level which is already there and in my price range.

Did not like much of the Sony, they are priced more for there features that is what I would say. Also my friend who has got canon G7 suggested me that most of the sony cameras are too complex to handle. I have cleared out SLR cameras check the panasonic, because with normal jpegs it also gives RAW and has powerful zoom (that is what we look for when upgrade into a SLR the ability to change up with lenses.).

Now as I have marked down these models I am hoping people can give more suggestions for me to make my mind clear. But I would really say I am awed by Panasonic FZ50 and Canon G9