Is IELTS score is required for HSMP !!

[aruparthas]

Hi Senior members,

Please clarify my doubt whether IELTS score((6.5+)) is required for applying HSMP.
About me, I have done my engineering in electronics and communication.

When 2 of my friends approached some HSMP consultants, it seems that they have been told that IELTS is going to become mandatory post 15th Jan 2007.

Initially I thought the consultant might told like that, just to get some clients in the form of my friends.
But now I dont want to take any chances.

My Questions,

1. At present does IELTS score is required for applying HSMP?
2. If not at present, does anybody have any idea whether IELTS would be made mandatory? and When?

Thanks in advance