MUMBAI: The 2006 Alma (American Latino Media Arts) Awards, which features the hottest stars from the worlds of film, television and music, are scheduled to air on ABC Television Network. The awards will be hosted by none other than Eva Longoria (Gabrielle Solis of Desperate Housewives). What's more, Longoria will also be a producer of the awards.

"I am honored to host this important television special. As a past Alam recipient, its even more meaningful for me to play such a major role in highlighting our Latino talent in Hollywood," said Longoria.

The show is organised by the National Council of La Raza (NCLR), the largest Latino civil rights and advocacy organisation in the US. The annual Alma Awards recognises and celebrates Latino artistic achievement in American film, television and music.

NCLR president and CEO Janet Murguia said, "The National Council of La Raza is very excited to relaunch the NCLR Alma Awards. The show provides an opportunity for the Latino community to celebrate excellence in the entertainment industry, while educating others about the contributions of Hispanic Americans to this country."

The awards will feature celebrity appearances (to be announced at a later date), as well as an eclectic mix of performances, spanning the worlds of pop, rock and Latin music in both English and Spanish.

Among the highlights of the 2006 Awards ceremony will be presentations of The Entertainer of the Year Award and the NCLR Vanguard Award.