Sunday, August 31, 2014

Veteran Telugu film director, artist ‘Bapu’ passes away

Veteran Telugu film director, artist ‘Bapu’ passes away

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:
Most newspapers have covered on their front pages the story of India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at 5.7 per cent during April-June. Under the headline, "Economy turning around, more to come: Jaitley", The Economic Times quoting Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, says that the 5.7% GDP growth rate in the April-June quarter, the highest in nine quarters, indicates that the economy is turning around and the impact of initiatives by the new government will be reflected in coming months, adding that investor confidence is improving and inflation is moderating as a result of the recent government decisions to relax FDI norms and push manufacturing.
Under the headline, "India, Japan sign MOU to develop Varanasi into Kyoto-like smart city", The Indian Express writes that PM Modi has signed an MOU with Japan wherein Kyoto will provide cooperation in the fields of conservation and modernisation to turn Varanasi into a smart city.
Hindustan Times writes that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's proposal to create a grand anti - BJP alliance, even going to the extent of asking the CPI (M) to join hands with it, was summarily rejected by all the four major constituent parties of the Left- front.
A report on foreign student population in the US, published by Brookings Institution for 2008-2012, offers some remarkable insights on India saying the number of full-time Indian students is 168,034, second only to China in the list of 74 nations with a large number of F-1 visa holders, reports The Times of India. The paper goes on to add that there are more students in the US from (undivided) Andhra Pradesh than any other state in India.
Email turned 32 yesterday but how many of us know that this quick method of message transfer was invented by Indian American V.A Shiva Ayyadurai only at the age of 14, writes the Asian Age.
Now here's a story that sounds like science fiction but actually happened. A man in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, thought the words `hola' and `ciao' (hello or goodbye in Italian) and another man in Strasbourg, France, received the two greetings in his brain. No hands, no speaking, no typing, no gestures - just mind-to-mind communication. Researchers from the University of Barcelona, Harvard Medical School and three companies making brain stimulation equipment and robotics, carried out these experiments, reports The Times of India. 

Saturday, August 30, 2014

Sindhu makes history as she stuns world No. 2 Wang to ensure second medal at World Championship

Sindhu makes history as she stuns world No. 2 Wang to ensure second medal at World Championship

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:
Newspapers reporting on the Economic turnarond with the GDP  growth at 5-7%, the government scrapping the tender for High Utility Helicopters and Former Telecom Minister Dayanidhi Maran and his Brother Kalanidhi Maran being charge sheeted in the Aircel Maxis deal by the CBI are some lead stories across papers today.
"Economy turns around, clocks fastest growth since March 2012", writes the Hindustan Times.
The Asian Age reports that the MoD has scrapped the deal for 197 copters over graft charges and has opted for the Indian industry to manufacture the helicopters as per the "buy and make in India"  policy.
The Indian Express writes that on September 5th, as Prime Minster Narendra Modi spends and hour and 45 minutes with nearly 1000 school children in Delhi, virtually every government and private school and adult education centre in the country will watch and listen to him live on TV, the radio and the Internet.

SC makes a Telangana a party in Krishna water row

SC makes Telangana a party in Krishna water row: http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/supreme-court-makes-telangana-a-party-in-krishna-water-row/article6363302.ece

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Student from Kalyan suspected to have fought for IS killed in Iraq - Hindustan Times

Student from Kalyan suspected to have fought for IS killed in Iraq - Hindustan Times




TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS:
The BJP dropping Veteran leaders from its key decision making parliamentary board, resignation of Shiela Dixit as Kerala governor and new governor being appointed in four states are some of the prominent stories in the papers today.
'Atal, Advani, Joshi out of the BJP power center headlines the Hindustan Today adding; curtains for the big 3, BJP gives its founding fathers a guiding role, completes generational shift.' The Indian Express says "Amit Shah completes transition in the party, puts veterans in new ' mentors panel'.
Shiela Dixit resigning as Kerala governor finds mention in almost all the papers. The Hindustan Times says 'Shiela Dixit, may return to Delhi politics'.
The Hindu says in a front page headline ' New governor in four states.
The Hindu in another story reports that the Delhi unit of the BJP is seeking that 80 percent of flats being alloted by Delhi Development Authority in the next scheme be reserved for the people of Delhi.
"Another CAG report had pointed at Manmohan Singh" is the lead headline in the Times of India, adding that 'ex-Jharkhand CM Koda is also named".
A front page report in the Indian Express says "Gangster Pujari sends reminder to cops : underworld still exists in Mumbai" stating that Pujari's men are suspects at firing at producer Ali Morani's house.
The Times of India reports ' Finmeccanica to face only a 'partial ban' adding that there will be no new deals and no change in ongoing pacts with the Italian conglomerate.
The Tribune carries a story on its front page 'Ludhiana to have north India's biggest turf club', reporting, that in good news for equestrian enthusiasts the Punjab government has granted approval for the state of the art turf club.
And finally, 'Modi, Sushma lead BJP's twitter ranking' says the Times of India about the ministers and their twitter followers in the list drawn up by the Information and Broadcasting Ministry.

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Indian-origin scientist finds new way to develop better drugs

Indian-origin scientist finds new way to develop better drugs 

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

    The Supreme Court calling coal block allocations since 1993 illegal is the lead in most papers. 'Judgement covers 1993-2010 period' writes the Business Standard, while the Financial Express says 'Industry on edge as 80,000 crore rupee investments are riding on these blocks', adding that 'cancellations are possible from the 1st of September.
    'Bypoll verdict on 4 states jolt BJP, Congress upbeat' says the Times of India on its front page, adding that 'out of 18 seats Sonia and allies win 10'. 'Bypoll blow for BJP in BIhar', writes the Hindustan Times. 'RJD, JD(U), Congress make big gains in Assembly by polls', says the Business line, showing a beaming Nitish and Lalu. 'Congress, Akali Dal share honours in Punjab' writes the Tribune .
    Many papers have reported about the two incidents of fire in Delhi. The Hindustan Times calls it 'fiery Monday' and says 'blazes at CP and Old Delhi'. The Delhi special of the Asian age says '25 shops gutted in Kinari Bazaar, 2 firemen injured, 50 tenders pressed into action.
    'City's hottest August day in 23 years' writes the Times of India. The Hindustan Times says that the maximum temperature at Palam in Delhi was 40.7 degree celsius.
    The death of Richard Attenborough, director of the film Gandhi, which bagged 8 Oscars, is reported by almost all papers. 'World cinema loses its Mahatma of all times' writes the Pioneer.
    The Hindu has a picture of U K deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg and PM Narendra Modi, with the caption "Britain offers help to usher in good times". The Asian Age says 'Clegg talks of achchhe din'.
    And finally, are you still deciding whether you need bifocals or separate reading glasses? Well, the Times of India writes that scientists in London have developed a tiny implant, which may make reading glasses redundant.

 

Monday, August 25, 2014

Coal scam: How India lost Rs 1.86 lakh crores

 Coal scam: How India lost Rs 1.86 lakh crores

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES
"LOC on fire, 2 jawans, 4 militants killed in J&K:" is the front page headline in the Hindustan Times. This has further strained the relations between India & Pakistan it adds.
The Indian Express reports of the resignation of the Maharasthtra governor K. Sankaranarayan after having been shunted to Mizoram.
The Times of India reports of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision to extend his trip to Japan by one day. He will depart to Tokyo on 30th  August instead of 31st August  thus sending a bold signal to China.
"Love- Jihad: term dropped, issue alive" is the front page headline in The Hindu. A day after raising it in a big way, the Uttar Pradesh unit of the BJP on Sunday dropped the controversial phrase love jihad from the political resolution at the end of its two day state executive meeting at Vrindavan but kept the issue alive, it says.
And finally have we found a modern day Sanjeevni the herb that renewed life of Bhagwan Ram's brother Lakshman in the historical epic Ramayan? Well perhaps. RHODIOLA a herb from Ladakh is the wonder herb with many miraculous properties as has been found by DRDO scientists, reports The Hindu.





Richard Attenborough

Richard Attenborough obituary http://gu.com/p/4x235

Sunday, August 24, 2014

33 days to Mars - 9 months after lift off, Mangalyaan ready for final lap @airnewsalerts (NOT 133 days)


Newspaper Headlines :-

With 2 Indians killled in Pakistan shelling near Jammu, the lead in the most papers is the violation of ceasefire. 'Pak mortar fire kills man, 10 year old son in Jammu" is the Hindustan Times headline. "Rangers target 22 posts along border, 1000 evacuated" writes the Tribune. "India retaliates with massive fire power causing heavy damage across the border", says Mail Today.

"Ex auditor deals fresh blow to Congress" writes the Times of India on its front page. Quoting former CAG Vinod Rai, the paper writes 'UPA pressured me to drop names from CAG reports", referring to the CWG and coal block allocation cases.

The Hindu, The Indian Express, The Financial Express and the Asian Age have reported that the Supreme Court has refused to postpone the Civil Services Preliminary exam, scheduled for today.

As the Chaturvedi row deepens, the Tribune says "AIIMS effect - Central hospitals under lens - Health Minister says functioning under review to end corruption".

Are drunk drivers running amok in Delhi? The Delhi Special of the Asian Age reports of a speeding car, which injured 6 rickshaw pullers, who were sleeping on the pavement. "Third such incident whithin a week, empty alchohol bottles recovered from car' adds the paper.

Gardner's son elected St. Stephens college students Union President' writes the Hindu. 'Elite no more?' asks the Times of India, giving details of Rohit Kumar Yadav, son of Harish Mali, who has been with the college for over two decades.

As the film Mardani has hit the theatres, the Tribune on its front page, reports of Razia Begum, 50, who guards 1300 people of Bir Village in Punjab. The paper calls her a 'real mardani, not a reel one'.

And finally, the Hindustan Times, in a block item titled 'Maiden mission' reports '133 days to Mars - 9 months after lift off, Mangalyaan ready for final lap'.

Saturday, August 23, 2014

Ceasefire violation: Jammu's border belt of RS Pura and Arnia turned into battle zone


Ceasefire violation: Jammu's border belt of RS Pura and Arnia turned into battle zone

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES :-
The Supreme Court stressing on the importance of the Post of Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha - at a time when the Congress group has been denied recognition as Leader of Opposition in the Lower House, is covered extensively by this morning's Press. The Times of India top headline reads "Respect dissent, SC tells Government, asks why no LoP post for Congress."
In a similar vein the Asian Age report that the Supreme Court is to interpret the LoP provision for appointment of the Lokpal selection process, and has asked the Centre to make its stand clear within two weeks. Government sources, however, said that designating the LoP is entirely left to the Speakers discretion, as per long existing rules.
"8 member think tank likely to replace plan panel" - is the lead headline in the Times of India. The paper writes that the new entity which will replace the Planning Commission is likely to have 8 members, 4 from the government and 4 from outside. The entity could be headed by the Prime Minister and is expected to be announced within a few weeks.
 "BJP led NDA hits the fast track to revival", writes Mail Today. The government has cleared no fewer than 16 major industrialised projects and the newly created National Board for wildlife has cleared a whopping 133 proposals. The critics though state that this does not go down well with the future of India's wildlife.
The Hindu reports that the Narendra Modi government is likely to name Arvind Subramanian its Chief Economic Advisor. Mr Subramanian is the Dennis Weatherstone Senior Fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, and a Senior Fellow at the Centre for Global Development.
And finally the Economic Times asks - what if you had to pay just one rupee for a lecture that will help you get into the Indian Institute of Technology? Anand Kumar, the man behind super-30 that coaches under privileged children for the IIT entrance exam, plans to take this formula online to raise funds for helping more under-privileged students.

Friday, August 22, 2014

Rape remark row: Arun Jaitley flayed by Delhi gang-rape victim`s parents



Rape remark row: Arun Jaitley flayed by Delhi gang-rape victim`s parents



NEWSPAPER HEADLINES







 The Jaharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren jeered, Start of Ganga cleaning, continuning deadlock in Pakistan, meeting of Assam and Nagaland Chief Minister and working out of a joint mechanism, and the I&B Ministry putting on hold release of Punjabi film 'Kaum De Heere' are some of the lead stories in papers today.

 "Soren Jeered too, Modi face's ire of opposition Chief Ministers headlnies the Hindustan Times. The Tribune reports about the Cong, BJP spar over booing of opposition Chief Ministers adding that after Hooda, there were jeers for Jharkhand Chief Minister Soren at PM function & Prithviraj Chavan skips Modi event in Nagpur.

"Ganga cleaning takes off, toxin sensors to keep tabs, is a Hindustan Times headline saying that in a first step towards cleaning of the Ganga in 6 months, sensors are to be installed at all critical points of the river.

 "Assam, Nagaland agree on joint mechanism", states the Hindu, reporting that Assam and Nagaland have decided to put in place a joint mechanism to prevent the recurrence of violence over the long pending boundary dispute.

The NDA government not allowing the scheduled Friday release of controversial Punjabi movie "Kaum De Heere" that deals with the assassination of former PM Indira Gandhi has been covered by almost all newspapers.

 The Asian Age quotes Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif as saying 'Crisis in Pakistan to worsen if I quit.. The paper says that the political crisis in Pakistan has deepened as talks between the protestors headed by Imran Khan and clerik Tahir-ul-Qadri and the government broke down on Thursday.

The Business line in a front page box item writes that "Kerala's United Democratic Front opts for total prohibition" referring to ban on alcohol consumption. The paper says that the decision will be implemented over a period of ten years and all bars to be shut by April the first.

The Times of India reports that a war memorial is to come up at India-Gate complex to honour Indian soldiers who laid down their lives since 1947.

 And finally, we will soon have cars that talk and save lives. Well, the Times of India writes that researchers at Ann Arbor, Michigan are working towards a not too distant future where vehicles will be in constant harmonious communication with one another and their surroundings, instantly warning drivers of unseen dangers.

Thursday, August 21, 2014

Pakistan on the brink, again

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

    The turmoil in Pakistan, ISIS beheading a US journalist, PM criticizing DRDO for delays, protests in Assam, passing away of Yog a Guru BKS Iyenger and GST delays and transfer of whistle blower CVO of AIIMS Sanjiv Chaturvedi are some of the most covered stories in papers today.
    "Centre urges Assam - Nagaland talks" - As two  die in firing, Rajiju heads for Guwahati, to meet Gogoi, Zelian is the Hindu headline.
    After Hooda, Congress CM's wary of sharing dais with Modi is a Times of India headline saying that Congress is shaken by the booing of the Haryana Chief Minister BS Hooda recently.
    The Financial Express reports that states agree on Goods and Services Tax GST threshold but fail to get much further.
    "Pakistan on the brink, again" headlines  the Hindustan Times. Thousands of protesters have thronged outside Parliament calling for Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's resignation says the report.
    "Government forces AIIMS whistle blower officer out" is a front page story in the Hindustan Times. Senior bureaucrat Sanjiv Chaturvedi who unearthed many scams in the prestigious All India Institute of Medical Science AIIMS has been unceremoniously removed as Chief Vigilance officer. The Business Standard  also lists how his efforts led to investigation into the private chemist shop's irregularities, buying of costly computers, illegal recruitment, unnecessary foreign jaunts, fake certificates.
    Another AIIMS news but environment related - the Hindu reports that the expansion of AIIMS trauma centre in Delhi will result in filling of 650 mature trees - mostly of Vilayati Kikar and Kabili Kikar.
    The death of the internationally renowned Yoga guru BKS Iyenger, author of 14 books and a following in 70 countries has been noticed by all news papers. His Yoga book "Light on Life" has been translated in 19 languages and sold more than 3 million copies.

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Executioner in American beheading video appears to be British: official - Hindustan Times

Executioner in American beheading video appears to be British: official - Hindustan Times



NEWSPAPER HEADLINES



The Pak envoy meeting Kashmiri separatists, the political turmoil in Pakistan, the Telangana survey, a Manipur court ordering the release of Irom Sharmila and BCCI's corrective measures to check the downslide in cricket are some of the lead stories in papers today.

"Pak defiant, envoy continues to meet Kashmir separatists", headlines the Hindustan Times. The Times of India writes "India scoffs at Meaningless Meetings" while the Economic Times states "Repeated poking by Pakistan led to Modi calling off talks" marking a major shift in approach to Pak.

The Hindustan Times also reports "Coup  fears: Protesters march on Pak Parliament, army moves in ". The Hindu writes "Imran, Qadri supporters in 'Red Zone".

On the Telangana survey, The Indian Express reports "KCR says 'superhit', numbers on ground tell a different story". The Times of India states, "Hyderabad shut down as Telangana household survey kicks off".

"Iron Lady Sharmila to be released after 14 years" headlines the Hindustan Times, in a box item, saying the charge of attempting sucide could not be established.

"Fletcher sidelined, Shastri put in charge for ODI series" reports the Times of India.

The Hindustan Times carries a story on the front page, "Coal stocks still low, Delhi -NCR face blackouts" reporting, seven units of NTPC have been shut down due to coal shortages. On a more hopeful note, the Asian Age reports of an internal survey by the city administration suggesting setting up of solar panels on rooftops in the city could generate 450 MW of electricity, which is one tenth of the average power consumption of the entire city.

"Pay a fine for littering, urinating in public" warns the Times of India, with the North Delhi Municipal Corporation deciding to penalize citizens throwing in public places with fines ranging from 100 to 500 rupees.

And finally, "Overseas calls to get cheaper soon", writes the Asian Age with new TRAI regulations making it possible for mobile users to make ISD calls at 2 to 10 rupees per minute.

Monday, August 18, 2014

India acts tough, cancels talks with Pakistan over 'unacceptable interference'

India acts tough, cancels talks with Pakistan over 'unacceptable interference'

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES
The flood fury in Uttar Pradesh causing loss of lives, The Pak envoy inviting Kashmiri separatist leaders for talks and drawing flak from India and the Indian Cricket team's dismal performance at the fifth and final Test in England are some lead stories in papers today.
"It rains misery on Uttrakhand , U.P. "; "Cloud burst in Nepal floods UP ; 4 lakh hit"  headlines The Pioneer.
Writing that the new found bonhomie in India Pakistan relations brought on by PM Nawaz sharif's presence at his counterpart Narendra Modi's swearing in ceremony has not lasted even 100 days, the Mail Today caption reads " Pakistan back to old tricks before Talks".
"UP Riots: panel targets BJP", says the Statesman writing that a UP government panel has accused a BJP MP of inciting the Saharanpur riots; The MP says it reflects low level politics.
In an analysis of the Ministry data for vacancies that will arise in the Supreme court, the Indian Express writes, " Sweeping change over 5 yrs: New Panel to select 68 percent of Judges in Supreme Court ; 80 percent in all High Courts".
In an exclusive story, The Hindustan Times reports:"Super body headed by PM to drive Mission Ganga: adding that in this clean up act there will be a key role for the private sector.
The Times of India writes that Battling crime , terrorism, Communal violence and internal security threats, the  country's  police force is grappling with as many as 5.5 lakh vacancies in a total strength of around 22 lakh.

Sunday, August 17, 2014

Pakistan envoy to talk to Kashmir separatists before foreign secy meet

Pakistan envoy to talk to Kashmir separatists before foreign secy meet

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

Morning Dailies have given wide coverage to BJP president Amit Shah's team. Under the caption, "RSS rules in new BJP team", The Hindu writes that the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh presence in the team is strong with the inclusion of former spokesman Ram Madhav as general secretary and Vinay Sahasrbuddhe as vice-president. The Times of India says BJP president Amit Shah has left out Varun Gandhi from his team comprising relatively younger leaders with strong ideological grounding and proven organizational skills.
"My government will help states push exports, SEZs: Modi" - Under the caption, The Indian Express reports that PM Narendra Modi has said that state export promotion councils can deal directly with manufacturers.
Many newspapers have reported that the marks of English Language Comprehension Skills, asked in second paper of civil services preliminary examination, will not be included for gradation, says the government.
The Asian Age writes that a homicide investigation has been launched after a man was found dead while several people from the Indian subcontinent were hospitalised after they were found inside a shipping container at a British port.
The Delhi Police will now depend on biometric technology to keep its expensive arms and ammunition from falling into the wrong hands and especially to prevent their theft and misuse by its own personnel, reports Hindustan Times.
The Business Standard says public sector lender IDBI Bank has said it is planning to announce liquor baron Vijay Mallya's Kingfisher Airlines as a wilful defaulter.
The Times of India writes that the Indira Gandhi National Open University, India's primary vehicle for taking higher education beyond classrooms, has shut down nearly 300 programmes and 250 community colleges and cancelled over 600 MoUs with various institutions.
The Indian Express reports that researchers from Harvard University are conducting preliminary field trials in Delhi of a 25 dollar diagnostic device which can detect a range of disorders in the human body as also pollutants in water.

Saturday, August 16, 2014

Mangalyaan now 88 million km from Red Planet

Mangalyaan now 88 million km from Red Planet

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:



PM Modi's maiden Independence Day speech is the major story splashed across papers today. "Maestro Modi 's 10 Mantras". Under that headline the Mail Today writes, in his maiden and extempore speech from Red Fort, PM declares end of socialist-era Planning Panel.
The Hindustan Times puts it as "PM gives 67-yr-old new glasses, new vision", describing how Modi got bullet-proof shield out of his way, freely met people. The Paper also reports, Modi announced the government would replace the Planning Commission with a new body likely to be modelled after China's policy advisory body, the National Development and Reform Commission.
The Economic Times opines,"Plan Panel's Loss may be Jaitley's Gain" speculating, FM's clout may grow as most functions of the body may come under the Finance Ministry.
The Times of India states, PM makes strong pitch to involve people in National Reconstruction Project; Cleanliness, girls toilets top PM's concerns.
The Business Standard writes,"On Independence Day, PM Modi sounds financial inclusion bugle".
"Government needs to work as an organic entity,says Modi", reports the Financial Express.
"Organs of state should have mutual respect" , The HIndu quotes the CJI speaking at the 68th Independence Day function at the Supreme Court lawns,adding , the Law Minister says government is wedded to independence of judiciary. The Indian Express reports, "CJI's note of caution: Hope we are mature enough to respect each other".
Papers also report, a four-member committee headed by A K Antony to identify factors which led to Congress's crushing defeat in the Lok Sabha polls shield Rahul from blame. The Indian Express states "Antony blames UPA  government for poll rout, Lets The Family get away".
"Bowing to banks RBI makes you pay for your cash". The Times of India reports succumbing to pressure from banks, RBI has turned the clock back, reducing the number of free transactions through ATMs.
And finally, "Maids get Gurgaon lifestyle as salaries zoom". The Times of India calls it "Max life in Millenium City" as domestic helps in Gurgaon make more than 20000/- a month with salaries rocketing in the past 10 years.

Thursday, August 14, 2014

Decisive challenge of our times is to end curse of poverty: President Pranab Mukherjee

Decisive challenge of our times is to end curse of poverty: President Pranab Mukherjee



TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS:



The Lok Sabha giving a nod to the landmark Judicial Appointments Commission Bill is the front page story in most of the news papers. The Tribune writes - The two decades old Collegium system of appointment of Judges to the Supreme Court is set to change with the Lok Sabha passing a landmark bill to create a National Judicial Appointments Commission. The Indian Express says 'Judicial Bills pass Lok Sabha, hit Rajya Sabha bump'.



Senior leader and AAP founding member Shanti Bhushan attacking Arvind Kejriwal, also gets top coverage. Hindustan Times writes, "War within the Aam Admi Party intensified, with Bhushan questioning Kejriwal's organisational skills, saying the former Delhi Chief Minister did'nt have it in him to turn the young party into a national force.



"India Pakistan row over Modi Barb", headlines The Hindu, after Narendra Modi accused Pakistan of continuing a "proxy war" with India. The Pakistan Foreign Ministry said, it would be better if the countries don't engage in a 'blame game ' - and India's spokesperson saying Mr. Modi articulated India's core concern with Pakistan.



The Times of India reports that the Finance Ministry is taking a re-look at recent appointments of top level public sector bank executives just before the UPA demitted office, in what is seen as a direct fallout of the recent arrest of the Syndicate Bank Chief by the CBI, on alleged corruption charges.



And finally, the Indian origin professor of mathematics at Princeton University, Manjul Bhargava, being awarded the 2014 Fields Medal, known as the 'Nobel Prize' of mathematics, is also widely covered by the press.

Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Sonia slams Modi government for communal violence

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Leh and Kargil dominates the front pages today. "Modi denounces Pak proxy war in Kashmir", writes the Times of India. The Hindu reports "PM rolls out Rs.8000 crore package for road projects".
    Congress President Sonia Gandhi's address at a special meeting of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee in Thiruvananthpuram is widely noticed. "Sonia slams Modi government for communal violence", reports the Asian Age.
    In a special front page story, "Home Minister is quietly cut out of senior officers' appointments", the Indian Express writes that the Prime Minister's Office has now reduced the Home Minister to a rubber stamp in the selection process of senior bureaucrats.
    The government's plans to trace back and even revive the river Saraswati which is considered to be a mythical river finds prominent mention in many papers. "Govt plans to get 'lost' Saraswati' flowing again", writes the Hindustan Times on its front page.
    The Hindu takes note of Tamil Nadu's latest health care initiative of providing baby care kits to all mothers who deliver babies in any government hospital in the state. Named after Chief Minister Jayalalitha, the Amma Baby Care kits include among other things baby towels, a dress and a mosquito net.
    The Tribune, the Hindustan Times and the Indian Express inform us about an online system started by the government which will enable tracking and transportation of the mortal remains of Indians who die overseas.
    The surfacing of Iraqi militant organisation ISIS videos with Hindi, Tamil and Urdu subtitles on the net is widely noticed in the press.

Tuesday, August 12, 2014

25 Life Lessons We Learned From Robin Williams Characters

25 Life Lessons We Learned From Robin Williams Characters

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES

The government seeking to scrap the Collegium system for appointment of judges to the Supreme Court and moving a Constitution Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha to set up a 'six member body' for this purpose, is predominantly noticed by the press, with Chief Justice of India RM Lodha defending the existing Collegium system. Quoting him, the Indian Express writes - "Don't defame judiciary - you do great damage to vital organ of democracy".
Mail Today reports that the Modi government has published a booklet titled -"Turning a new leaf -  initiatives and achievements of the government", which was distributed to party MP's during the National Council meet, to showcase the initiatives of the government and to assure people that the government is on the right track.
After 20 years of bitter political rivalry, former Bihar Chief Ministers - Lalu Prasad and Nitish Kumar, hugged each other at a rally yesterday and launched a joint campaign for the upcoming Assembly polls, scheduled for Aug 21, reports Hindustan Times. "Modi Factor unites bitter rivals - Lalu and Nitish", is the paper's headline.
Business Standard reports that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first Independence Day speech from the Red Fort, which is likely to focus on policy announcements, could draw more than 50,000 people according to officials, as there is a huge interest in the event this year. Asian Age writes that Mr. Modi plans to deliver his speech extempore.
The crucial Question Hour that kick starts parliament proceedings each day and often falls victim to disruptions may no longer be lost amid chaos, at least in Rajya Sabha, as it has been moved to 12 noon, reports the Times of India. The new timings will be operational from the winter session.
And finally , Times of India informs us that a new technology, designed by researchers at the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, may allow the dashboard screen inside your car to display traffic signs and automatically alert you of what actions to take.

Monday, August 11, 2014

SEBI moves to tap Rs 1 trillion inflow FYI: @airnewsalerts NOT 1 trillion dollar

NEWSPAPERS Headlines

The ISIS massacring 500 Yazidis makes for front page headline in most newspapers while some of the minority community were buried alive, in mass graves, hundreds of women were taken as slaves, says the Hindustan Times.
 "More for less - e-retailers add customers while cutting costs" says the Business Line. Now on-line companies are pulling in customers who generally do not shop online by giving heavy discounts as the companies engaged in a tie up with banks and cell phone companies on a sort of barter system.
  "SEBI moves to tap 1 trillion dollar inflow" in the Asian Age headline. The SEBI approved the final guidelines for real estate investment trusts & infrastructure investment trusts - a move that is expected to pump in money into cash starved real estate & infrastructure projects.
The Hindu on its front page carries a story on the low attendance of some MPs while celebrity Rekha's attendance is 5 %, Sachin Tendulkar is 2 % in the Rajya Sabha, Actors Hema Malini and Tapas Pal did not attend even a single day of the Lok Sabha - says the report.
The Financial Express reports that Subramanian Swamy urged the centre to do away with the system of collecting income tax and instead find out other means to raise money for the exchequer.
The goverment okays Bharat Ratna for Vajpayee, Dhyan Chand & Subhash Chandra Bose among other probables - says an Economic Times report.
The Indian Express carries a beautiful picture of Union Minister Najma Haptullah tying Rakhi on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
 "Pakistan soap power looks India" says the Hindu. The Zee network has added some fresh air to television viewing by airing some popular Pakistani serials - Aunn Zara and Zindagi Gulzar hai. The refined language - a mix of Hindi and Punjabi and women centric themes are the attractive features of these serials.

Saturday, August 9, 2014

The War Photo No One Would Publish

The War Photo No One Would Publish

NEWSPAPERS Headlines

 The newspapers report that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has told visiting US Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel that India would like to work with US defence majors on a joint development and co-production model as part of Delhi's efforts to achieve self-reliance and reduce arms import.
"UP Conflict engineered, says Rahul" - Under this headline, The Indian Express says Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi has said the ongoing communal conflicts in Uttar Pradesh have been engineered and that the communal incidents were part of a deliberate strategy to divide the poor.
 Many dailies report that Priyanka Gandhi-Vadra has said reports about her assuming various posts in Congress were “conjecture” and “baseless rumours”, according to PTI.
Under the caption, "Rajya Sabha MPs question absence of Sachin, Rekha", Hindustan Times reports that Cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar faced his first bouncer from Rajya Sabha members on Friday for his poor attendance in Parliament since he was nominated to the House in April 2012.The paper goes on to add that the angry lawmakers kicked up a storm over the long absences of celebrity MPs Tendulkar and actor Rekha from the House.
Hindustan Times writes that to ensure that the flats it allots are taken care of well, the DDA is going to create a corpus fund for their lifetime maintenance adding the fund will be provided for all the 25,600 flats it is going to offer as part of the 2014 Housing Scheme.
"Recovering cheque-bounce money to get more tedious", under that headline, The Times of India reports that In a landmark judgment, the apex court has ruled that the case has to be initiated at the place where the branch of the bank on which the cheque was drawn is located.
Former Union minister Jaswant Singh slipped into coma on Friday after sustaining severe head injuries and remained on life support system in a highly critical state, reports The Times of India.
The long wait for India and Pakistan to play a bilateral Test series is set to end in December 2015. The two countries will take on each other in the United Arab Emirates in a full series comprising two Tests, five One-Day Internationals and two T20 games, reports The Times of India.
And finally, the Times of India writes that inspired by the architecture of the brain, scientists have developed a new kind of computer chip that uses no more power than a hearing aid and may eventually excel at calculations that stump today's supercomputers.

Friday, August 8, 2014

U.S. Begins Strikes in Iraq, Pentagon Says

U.S. Begins Strikes in Iraq, Pentagon Says

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

The Supreme Court ordering in an interim order the two warring Sikh bodies - the Shiromani Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee and the Haryana Sikh Gurudwara Management Committee to maintain Status Quo on the management of all 52 gurudwaras in Haryana, is covered by Hindustan Times and the Tribune. "Akal Takht to form mediation panel" - headlines the Tribune.
"Changes in Juvenile law won't come easy", reports Mail Today as several former Board Judges have expressed reservation about the proposed amendment to the Juvenile Justice Act.
Indian Express reports, "Modi govt. issues list of 19 do's and don'ts for bureaucrats.
The Hindu informs us that the Center on Thursday said there was "force" in the argument that the Civil Services Examination should be conducted in all languages in the Eighth Scheduled of the Constitution and assured the Lok Sabha that this demand would be considered.
And finally, a very special headline in the Times of India which reads, "Crown found near Harappan site in UP". A skeleton has been accidentally discovered in a brick kiln in Chandayan village of Baghpat district, wearing a Copper Crown with Beads of carnelian, a semi precious gem associated with the Harappan civilization.

Thursday, August 7, 2014

Chief Minister on a ‘mission’ - The Hindu

Chief Minister on a ‘mission’ - The Hindu



NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

    Cabinet approving the Juvenile Justice (Care and protection of children) bill, Rahul Gandhi's charge in Lok Sabha, Mizoram Governor Kamla Beniwal being sacked and the passing away of famous cartoonist Pran Sharma are some of the prominent stories in newspapers today.
    "Cabinet okays bill seeking to try minors as adults for big crimes", writes the Hindustan Times adding that there is a provision that 16 plus minors may face regular trial, but won't get life sentence or death. The Tribune opines 'Cabinet clears Bill to lower juvenile age'. 'No juvenile shield for 16 year old rapist/killers', is the Pioneer headline.
    'Rahul takes on government', headlines the Hindu. The paper adds that speaker agrees for discussion on communal violence. The Asian Age states 'Rahul aggressive in LS, NDA hits back', while the Indian Express headlines 'Communal' heat makes Rahul step out of his cold.'
    'Modi's bete noire Beniwal sacked', is a front page headline in the Hindustan Times. While, the Indian Express leads with "Shunted Gov sacked, envoys on notice", adding that High Commissioner to UK, envoy to Canada and Norway are also in the firing line.
    A front page report in the Times of India says, 'E-rickshaws to come under Motor Act'. Referring to E-rickshaw which, under the proposed norms, will be registered and licenses issued to drivers.
    A BSF jawan deployed in Akhnoor near the LOC being captured by Pakistan border guards after he was swept away by a strong current of Chenab river is reported in the Asian Age.
    And Finally, do you know that popping that aspirin cuts down digestive tract cancer risk. Well, the Times of India writes that scientists from Queen Mary University of London after many studies of chemical trials have found that aspirin, significantly reduces the risk of developing and dying of bowel, stomach and oesophageal cancer.

Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Pakistan captures BSF jawan swept away by Chenab river

Pakistan captures BSF jawan swept away by Chenab river

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

A likely decision on a govt in Delhi, the deadlock over the Insurance Bill, the RBI Governor keeping interest rates unchanged and the continuing UPSC row, find prominent coverage in newspapers today.
"Govt or fresh polls in Delhi : SC gives Centre 5 weeks", headlines the Hindustan Times. The Asian Age opines, "Fresh Delhi polls likely in December".
The Hindu reports, "NCP opts out of opposition motion on Insurance Bill". The Hindustan Times writes "Opposition firm, Govt calls another meet to save Insurance Bill".
The Times of India leads with "Ex-babus slam govt move on English" adding, "CSAT Necessary to test calibre, say Academics". The Asian Age states "Protests over UPSC exam get new twist, Oppn MPs demand test in all Indian languages", going on to say, "Language frenzy may erupt, Centre warned".
"No rate cuts, small chance of any soon". Under that headline, the Financial Express writes, "Rajan infuses 40,000 crore rupee liquidity with SLR cut; inflation remains in focus".
A front page report in the Hindustan Times says, "No jail for attempting suicide , govt working to scrap law", a move that will ensure people driven to kill themselves do not end up in jail if they don't succeed.
New service rules a boon to all women government staffers", states the Asian Age , reporting, the government decided to treat extended maternity leave and study leave as in service to compute seniority for promotion.
"Fears mount over the Mosul missing", is the Indian Express lead, on the plight of 40 Indian construction workers held by the Islamic State. The paper adds"officials say they are made to work for insurgents"; Last call on June 15 -- and then silence, say families.
The Statesman, in a box item, mentions " PM unlikely to address US Congress joint session" when he travels to the US, as the law makers need to go back to their constituencies to campaign for the November General Elections there.
And finally, India has more multi-millionaires than Australia, Russia or France!  The Times of India reports, the latest wealth index by New World Wealth has ranked India No.8 on the global list of multi-millionaires.

Tuesday, August 5, 2014

4 Indians among Fortune's list of 20 extraordinary tech czars

4 Indians among Fortune's list of 20 extraordinary tech czars

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES
Most papers have a picture of Prime Minister Narendra Modi showing him gifting 2500 kg of sandalwood to the Pashupatinath temple in Kathmandu. "PM Modi floors Nepal with vision for future", writes Mail Today, while the Asian Age says "Modi wins Nepal hearts' and minds'.
The centre's decision to allot no marks to English in the IAS exam finds front page coverage in many dailies. 'English marks won't count in UPSC merit list' is the Tribune headline.
The government and opposition talks inconclusive on the insurance bill is put by the Hindustan Times as 'Insurance bill stuck, government says its open to changes'.
The higher echelons of judiciary hit by another sexual harassment scandal is widely reported by the press. 'A woman judge in Gwalior has quit her job after accusing a judge of the MP high court', says the Asian Age. 'CJI seeks report on sexual harassment', writes the Hindu.
It started with Sanjay Baru's book, followed by Natwar Singh's revelations. The latest is the book authored by Dr. Manmohan Singh's daughter Daman, called 'Strictly Personal, Manmohan and Gursharan'. 'Daughter springs to defend Manmohan's legacy', writes the Times of India. The paper, quoting her writes, 'Dad faced lot of resistance from within Congress'.
A block item titled 'Bright future', on the front page of the Hindustan Times, says that a school bag that can be used as a lamp, has lit up many slum children's lives. Attaching solar panels to school bags, that collect energy during days, to power an LED light at night is the brilliant idea behind it.
There seems to be no dearth of good ideas. 'IIT-D's smartcanes reach out to Mumbai's visually impaired', writes the Express Newsline, of canes, which will enable the blind to detect open windows, electric poles etc from a distance of three metres. Smart canes will also have an alarm which will go off for fast approaching obstacles like reversing cars.
And finally, do you fret over your teenager playing video games. Well, the Times of India writes, that according to a study, 'video gaming for less than an hour daily benefits kids'.a

Monday, August 4, 2014

I-Day celebrations to bring focus back on Golconda Fort | Business Standard News



I-Day celebrations to bring focus back on Golconda Fort | Business Standard News



NEWSPAPER HEADLINES



Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Nepal dominates the front pages of most papers today. "After 17 years, Modi resets historic India-Nepal ties: Offers 1 billion dollar loan, help in building highways, IT and power sectors" reports the Hindustan Times. The Times of India writes "Ready to revise 1950 agreement, India tells Nepal".

The arrest of an official of the Indian Olympic Association and a senior wrestling referee at the  Glasgow Commonwealth Games on charges of alleged assault is prominently noticed on the front pages. "IOA Secretary General, Wrestling Referee arrested for drunken driving and sexual assault respectively" reports the Pioneer.

Most papers take note of the Aam Admi Party rally in Delhi to demand the holding of quick elections to the Delhi Assembly. "Dissolve assembly in a week : Kejri tells govt." reports the Hindustan Times.

And finally, it seems you are never too old to ride a bicycle. The Hindu reports that an RTI query with the Chattisgarh labour department has revealed that  732 year old Pushpa Sahu was a beneficiary.




Sunday, August 3, 2014

Bihar braces for Kosi fury after Nepal landslide

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

The possibility of a flood in Bihar after a landslide occured in Nepal is prominently noticed. The Hindustan Times reports "Bihar braces for Kosi fury after Nepal landslide". Highlighting its impact, the Pioneer writes "Kosi spells havoc again; 1.5 Lakh leave North Bihar".
The Shiva Sena's support for senior Mumbai police officer Sunil Paraskar accused of rape by a 26 year old model gets wide coverage in the press. The Hindustan Times writes "Sena says slapping rape charge now a fashion, backs cop".
All the papers take note of a comment made by Supreme Court judge Justice Anil R Dave. The Indian Express quotes him as saying " If I were dictator, would have made Gita compulsory in Class 1".
In a special front page exclusive, the Mail Today reports that the CRPF has launched a "targeted operation in Jharkhand to rescue hundreds of children kidnapped by Maoists for combat roles."
Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar's assertion that former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was not kept in the loop about Operation Brasstacks on the Pakistan border gets wide coverage.  "Rajiv didnt know India was on brink of war" writes the Times of India.
The papers report of some initiatives to make the lives of children more secure. The Tribune says "Government holds inter ministerial talks on a law to ensure care and protection of kids in foster families". The Indian Express says that the draft of a revised Juvenile Justice Act proposes a maximum of 5 years in jail for parents, guardians and teachers for any form of corporal punishment.
The Biju Janta Dal's decision to support the legislation to push the FDI cap in Insurance to 49% is highlighted in the Times of India and the Hindustan Times.
And finally, a stubborn camel held up eight trains on the Delhi-Mumbai route as it kept sitting on the rail tracks near Hindaun city in Rajasthan for three hours.

Saturday, August 2, 2014

Nine reasons why India's WTO veto shocked the world

Nine reasons why India's WTO veto shocked the world


NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

The Sheila Dikshit government spent 3,029.21 crore rupees on regularisation of illegal colonies in Delhi but failed to provide the most basic of amenities, such as sewer and water lines, roads and drainage, says Hindustan Times quoting a comptroller and auditor general (CAG) report.
India strongly defended its stand at the World Trade Organization seeking implementation of the entire Bali package, countering the global finger-pointing at New Delhi and the accusation that the collapse of talks in Geneva would deal a death blow to multilateral trade negotiations, writes The Economic Times.
The Times of India says, responding to PM Narendra Modi's suggestion to fast-track trials in criminal cases against MPs, the Supreme Court has said the Centre should look at fast-tracking the entire criminal justice system instead.
The Indian Express says that the brother of Sohrabuddin Sheikh, the alleged gangster who was reportedly killed in a fake encounter has asked the special CBI court to order narco analysis tests on BJP President Amit Shah and 37 others accused in the case.
The Times of India reports that much like in government, the winds of change are blowing in the corridors of Parliament saying that after a deadlock of nearly three years, there is a flurry of activity on the floor of the two Houses. The paper adds in the last three weeks, the 16th Lok Sabha recorded a productivity of 103% in contrast to the 15th Lok Sabha that worked for only 61% of the scheduled time.
The Narendra Modi government hopes to save Rs.3,500 crore in oil subsidies by persuading 1 crore affluent customers to voluntarily pay market rates for cooking gas in response to text messages to customers inviting them to opt out of the subsidy for the sake of “nation-building“. n-building“, writes The Economic Times.
And finally, under the headline, "End of chemo in 20 yrs? Mapping DNA offers hope", The Times of India says Chemotherapy and its nasty side effects will become obsolete in less than 20 years adding treatments will individually fix faulty genes to cure cancer, thanks to a groundbreaking genetic research programme to decode 100,000 human genomes - a patient's personal DNA code

Friday, August 1, 2014

Pune village landslide: All 150 missing feared killed, 44 bodies pulled out of mud | The Indian Express

Pune village landslide: All 150 missing feared killed, 44 bodies pulled out of mud | The Indian Express



NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

The Malin landslide tragedy in Maharashtra, the Delhi High Court banning E-rickshaws in the capital, Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj calling US snooping on the BJP 'Completely unacceptable' and the Congress Chief Sonia Gandhi declaring that she would pen her memoirs to bring out the truth, are some prominent stories in newspapers today.

"UPSC opposes 'Suggestion' to postpone or cancel prelims", writes the Indian Express. The paper says that in reply to a DOPT circular containing a list of suggestions, the UPSC has given a detailed response with reasons why a majority of them would be difficult to implement at this stage of the 2014 exam cycle.

The Asian Age writes that in a move to save thousands of jobs in financially strapped airlines, and not wanting a repeat of the Kingfisher mess, the Civil Aviation Industry is considering the Satyam Model for rescuing loss making private airlines.

A report in the Indian Express indicates that regulator  TRAI will soon issue guidelines on how the extent of Politicians' links with some media houses could be toned down, as well as measures that should be taken to create a firewall between corporate investment in Media and their editorial departments.

And finally, sometimes it pays to Monkey around ! The Times of India writes that about 40 trained Youths have been pressed into service to disguise themselves as langoors, even screech like the simians and scare away monkeys from Delhi's VVIP Zone.



The tobacco divide