Adarsh Building, Built On Graft, To Be Demolished, Says Bombay High Court

Adarsh Building, Built On Graft, To Be Demolished, Says Bombay High Court

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

    The 3,565 crore Agusta Westland VVIP helicopter scam continues to remain on the front pages. The Times of India writes "ED zeroes in on benificiaries of Choppergate". A senior Enforcement Director source claims to have mapped the money trail and has identified politicians, bureaucrats, IAF officers and other benificiaries of the kick-backs in Choppergate. "Amit Shah asks Sonia to name "bribe-takers" is the Asian Age top headline.
    "UN rules out any direct role in the valley"-headlines the Tribune. While answering questions at a news conference, the Head of the UN Peace Building Commission said - that the primacy of politics and the local conditions that drive negotiations between India and Pakistan have to be respected.
    "ISRO propels India into GPS club", headlines The Pioneer. India has literally edged out the United States owned and operated Global Positioning System - a space based navigation system, from Indian airspace. With the successful launch of IRNSS-1G into pre-determined orbit, it has completed its landmark mission for a Regional Navigation System, which Prime Minister Modi named NAVIK.
    Bhumata Brigade leader Trupti Desai was not allowed to protest at the Haji Ali Dargah on Thursday, and was detained by the police before she could hold the protest, writes the Asian Age.
    Hindustan Times writes "India has withdrawn Visas granted to two more well-known Chinese dissidents, Lu Jinghua and Ray Wong, who were set to attend a China-focused conference on democracy in Dharamshala.
    India has asked the United Kingdom to deport Vijay Mallya, wanted for money laundering and financial mismanagement writes The Hindu. The Pioneer reports that the Ministry of External Affairs had revoked his diplomatic passport which he holds by virtue of being a Rajya Sabha MP.
    And finally, Business Standard informs us that Mowgli and Co. and the 'Jungle Book' has become the highest Hollywood grosser in India, the first film to cross the Rs 150- crore mark in box office collections.

India gets homegrown satellite navigation system

India gets homegrown satellite navigation system

TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:-

    The controversy over the Agusta Westland helicopter deal with Rajya Sabha BJP MP Subramniam Swamy alleging payoffs to Congress President Sonia Gandhi grabs front page attention. Highlighting Ms Gandhi's response to these charges, the Asian Age writes "Sonia hits back, tells BJP 'I'm not afraid'. With the Congress asserting that it had blacklisted Agusta Westland, the Pioneer carries Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar's reaction as it reports "Agusta Westland was never blacklisted: Parrikar nails UPA half-truth".

    The government's denial of the allegation that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had sought information on the Gandhi family from his Italian counterpart on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session last year in exchange for freeing two Italian marines accused of killing Indian fishermen is widely reported. The Times of India reports "Modi didn't meet Italy PM Renzi in New York, clarifies MEA".

    The Supreme Court's ruling on continuing President's rule in Uttarakhand till May the 3rd, the date of the next hearing gets wide coverage. The Hindu reports that the apex court had tough questions for the Centre which had challenged the Speaker's decision that the Money Bill had been passed in the Assembly on March the 18th. The paper writes "Who can question authority of the Speaker, asks SC".

    Most papers report that the Common Medical Test for all government and private medical and dental colleges will be rolled out this year. The Times of India states "Only 1 test for medical admission from this session itself ,rules SC".

    Speculation is rife in the papers that Shashank Manohar, the Chief of the apex cricketing body in India BCCI may soon resign. "Manohar may pick ICC over India job" reports the Hindustan Times.

    The Asian Age and the Times of India draw attention to a very novel protest against the odd-even car scheme in Delhi with pictures of BJP MP Ram Prasad Sharma arriving in Parliament on a horse.

Facebook revenue smashes expectations as mobile ad sales surge

Facebook revenue smashes expectations as mobile ad sales surge

Hyderabad: May could turn out ‘cooler’

Hyderabad: May could turn out ‘cooler’

NEWSPAPERS  HEADLINES

    The meeting between the foreign secretaries of India and Pakistan is covered prominently in newspapers today. The Indian Express leads "Foreign Secretaries break the ice, remain frosty". "Pakistan can't deny impact of terror on talks, says India" headlines the Hindustan Times.
    The fire in the FICCI building yesterday finds wide mention. Hindustan Times terms it "A Bonfire of Natural History".  "Irreplaceable History Lost" including a 160-million-year-old Indian dinosaur's fossil, leads the Pioneer. "Fire safety system was not working" reports the Asian Age.
    "Bank to get info on Mallya's foreign assets" writes the Hindu Business Line. The Pioneer states "Supreme Court discloses details of Mallya's assets, asks banks to go ahead".
    "Italian Court verdict gives BJP ammunition to gun for 'Signora Gandhi' in House" is the lead in the Times of India, on the Agusta Westland deal.
    On the Panama papers leak, the Indian Express writes "Panama heat: I-T knocks on 3 Delhi doors".
    Supreme Court tells government to set up bad loans panel" reports the Business Standard.
    A Joint Parliamentary Committee has suggested "Bankruptcy Code most cover overseas assets too" informs the Hindu Business Line.
    Democratic frontrunner in the US Presidential election, Hillary Clinton says, if elected, half of her cabinet will be women, reports the Asian Age.
    The Tribune informs, all mobile phones sold from January 2017 must have a panic button, as a women's safety measure.
    And finally, "Creating a 3 D optical illusion for safer highways"! The Hindu reports of a Road Transport Ministry plan to have 3 D paintings on roads, to act as virtual speed breakers, and prompt drivers to slow down.

Bangladesh LGBT editor hacked to death

Bangladesh LGBT editor hacked to death

NEWSPAPERS  HEADLINES

    The Asian Age, Mail Today and other papers, carry a picture of an emotional Chief Justice of India - Justice T.S. Thakur at a conference in Delhi where he attacked present & past governments for not improving judges and population ratio & blaming judiciary unfairly for huge backlog with people languishing in Jails.
    Retired judicial officials may be appointed as ad-hoc judges is the resolution adopted at the conference, reports The Business Standard. The Prime Minister has assured of setting up a panel to solve the problem has also been reported.
    "Mallya's passport revoked in first step to bring him back", is the Hindu headline.
    FSSAI sets iron limit in Tea powder at 150 mg per kg - interestingly it is presumed that due to wear and tear in the machinery, iron fillings enter tea dust during manufacturing process, reports the Pioneer.
    Controversy over Salman Khan's selection as the goodwill ambassador for Indian Olympics finds mention in many papers. A sports person like PT Usha & Milkha Singh or Anju Bobby George instead of an actor should have been the right choice echoes a Pioneer report.
    "Goodwill ambassador gets some cheer, some jeer" headlines The Tribune
    Now some other stories in various papers.
    Raghuram Rajan not the top paid man at RBI.
    Prime Minister Narendra Modi pitching for mass campaign  to save water in Mann-ki-Baat.
    2 people being killed in Aligarh Muslim University gunfight.
    A Shiv Moggo boy Pavan Kumar doing a Manjhi by digging a well of his own.
    105 motor vehicles stolen in Delhi, a rise of 40 per cent.
    Now Paddy straw to be used as fuel in brick kiln industry in  Punjab
    The diamond city of sunset, Surat, is the first one in India to implement concept of safe city with 24 x 7 video surveillance work reports Financial Express. 

How can 18,000 judges tackle 3 crore cases, CJI TS Thakur asks PM Modi

How can 18,000 judges tackle 3 crore cases, CJI TS Thakur asks PM Modi

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

    The latest development in Uttarakhand is noticed by most of the papers this morning."High Court defers hearing of Uttarkhand Congress rebels."leads Hindustan Times adding"suspense is alive, fate of 9 MLA's to be decided tomorrow.""Uttarkhand developments set to rock Parliament" leads the Statesman.
    Most of the papers carry photographs of Barack Obama meeting Prince George the "adorable" 3 year old son of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. While the Asian Age carries a photograph of the US President shaking hands with the actors after watching a part of British playwright William Shakespeare's play Hamlet while touring the Globe Theatre in London.
    The Times of India quotes the Delhi government telling the High Court that "Ola and Uber operating taxis illegally". The Pioneer quotes the AAP government as telling the High Court that the "App-based taxi operator didn't seek licence".
    The Indian Express quotes the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti as saying " If US, Iran can make new start why not India, Pakistan".
    On the Jat reservation protests in Haryana the Times of India writes "Jat quota protest most-filmed riot, clips nail guilty".
    The Asian Age reports that Hyderabad is the third noisiest metro in India after Mumbai and Lucknow as per a report by the Central Pollution Control Board.
    The Pioneer reports that India will soon have its first four-legged gallantry award winner. The Union Home Ministry has recommended the Defence Ministry to grant NSG canine Rocky a Sena Medal for its gallant action in the counter-terror operation at the Pathankot air-base in January.
    The Times of India in a front page story reports that over 50 children in the age group of one month to 14 years die of cancer every day in India, according to a recent study.
    And finally, knowledge of banana's may help save lives. Well, Hindustan Times reports Banana contain important vitamin-precursor compounds which if better understood can save thousands of children from dying and becoming blind say the researchers.

US suicide rate surges, particularly among white people

US suicide rate surges, particularly among white people

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

    "SC stays High Court order on Uttarakhand President Rule" is the Asian Age headline : Vijay Vargiya to blame for the mess, say some in BJP says another headline of the paper. The Indian Express quotes the Supreme Court 's emphasis being "more on propriety than legality".
    China is upset after UIGHUR leader DOLKUN ISA  has been given visa for Dharamshala meet is a report in the Hindu. ISA has been declared a terrorist by China but he says his struggle is non-violent.
    Inspired by Gujarat, now Punjab and Andhra Pradesh will install solar panels on canals to increase green power generation reports The Economic Times.
    The recent liquor ban in Bihar has united a couple who had separated for 16 years due to the Man's drinking problem, makes for front page story in the Hindu. Weddings are now on time with no threat of molestation and crime has seen  a drop, thanks to liquor ban.
    "Modi's give-it-up Savings will fund 5 crore free LPG connections" says,  The Asian Age.
    A sea of devotees walking in sweltering heat took the dip of faith, says the Statesman with a picture of the SIMHASTHA KUMBH mela at Ujjain where yesterday was the first Shahi snan.
    The passing away of philanthropist Sant Amrik Dev, cruellest, driest April ever for Bundelkhand. 7 other famous diamonds from India, apart from Kohinoor being displayed in world museums, Ghulam Ali being award with Hanumant Award, Bhupendra Kainthola being new FTII director, Power Minister Piyush Goel sending a thankyou note to its 10 lakh strong force. Hanuman Jayanti, Chithirai and Earth Day celebrations yesterday Dehradun's first ever literary festival being on Bhalsawa landfill fire increasing pollution in Delhi, and ITBP to set up 12 holiday homes for javans are some of the other stories.

India Visa For This Man Seen As Payback For China Protecting Masood Azhar

India Visa For This Man Seen As Payback For China Protecting Masood Azhar

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

    The High Court's verdict in Uttarakhand is the lead story in all papers today. "HC quashes central rule in Uttarakhand," headlines Hindustan Times; "Restores Rawat as Uttarakhand CM," highlights The Pioneer; "Shaken BJP, says 'not surprised'," reports The Hindu while The Statesman carries Harish Rawat's appeal "Modi govt. must now cooperate" quoting him as saying, "his govt. does not want to pursue a confrontationist path with 'the mighty, powerful and broad-chested' Centre."
    On the effect of the odd-even scheme in the capital on pollution, Hindustan Times reports, "No odd-even impact seen, pollution panel tells NGT." "Landfill fire ignites AAP-BJP fight" highlights the Hindu. "AAP government forms panel to probe odd-even 'sabotage' " says The Pioneer. The Times of India quotes environmental expert, Sunita Narayan, "Permanent odd-even not a solution. If you make it permanent, people start looking for ways to avoid it."
    The liquor baron Mallya continues to occupy front pages. The Financial Express reports "Mallya to Supreme Court: don't need to reveal assets." "Broke Mallya has Trump card in New York," says Mail Today of the elusive Rajya Sabha member's "three big-ticket apartments in the Iconic Trump Plaza." "ED moves MEA for Mallya's deportation," notes The Pioneer.
    "Hooda set to lose Cabinet Minister status," reports The Tribune adding, "The BJP government in Haryana has decided this following the former Congress Chief Minister's alleged 'role' in the Jat reservation stir."
    And finally, on a contrasting note, the US is set to celebrate Harriet Tubman, an African-American slave woman, for her role in helping hundreds of slaves escape chains using the Underground Railroad. She will stand with George Washington and Abraham Lincoln as among the iconic faces on the US dollar."

Prince, singer and superstar, dies at 57 at Paisley Park

Prince, singer and superstar, dies at 57 at Paisley Park

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

    The Uttarakhand High Court's observation on President's rule in Uttarakhand receives extensive coverage in the press today.
    "There's no king, president's rule under judicial review", the Pioneer quotes the High Court. "Even president's decision can go terribly wrong, says High Court" is the Hindu lead.
    The crackdown on surge pricing is also prominently noticed. "Will not allow surge pricing even after odd-even ends", the Times of India cites the Delhi govt, in its lead story. "Purge the surge! Law to fix app -  cab fares" writes the Pioneer, quoting Kejriwal as saying, govt won't allow 'daylight robbery' by cabbies. The Economic Times says "Cabs, States Haggle over Dynamics of Fare Game".
    "Parents may be punished if kids drive" in a move aimed at curbing rising fatalities from the underage getting behind the wheel, is an HT special story.
    "India mourns as Shaktiman dies" writes the Times of India, of the Dehradun Police horse, who was injured in a protest rally, days after he was fitted with a prosthetic limb.
    "Dad can give property to married daughter over son and wife" the Times of India reports of a landmark judgment by the Supreme Court.
    The paper also notes "Class X Boards unlikely to be brought back", as the govt plans to continue the current CCE system introduced in 2011.
    " 'NiL' research by 50% medical colleges" in a decade, spanning 2005 to 2014, reports the Tribune, citing new data on the proliferation of medical colleges posing huge quality challenges.
    "India's 1st bullet train to travel under sea" informs the Hindu Business line as the Railways will build a 21-km-long tunnel near Thane creek, for the first bullet train of the country between Mumbai and Ahmedabad.
    And finally, the Hindu Business line has two simple tips for a better and longer life. The paper cites studies to say "Fast and rest, to live fit and long" and "Cut sitting time in office by 71 minutes to live longer" as it reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Telangana government cool on heat deaths

Telangana government cool on heat deaths

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

    The Bengaluru violence forcing the government to roll back the employees provident fund (EPF) decision makes for front page news in most of the dailies. "Bengaluru violence forces rollback of PF restrictions" leads Hindustan Times. "After Bengaluru violence, government withdraws tighter EPF rule" states the Asian Age.
    The government's U-turn on Kohinoor return is noticed by the papers. The government will now make all efforts to bring back the Kohinoor a day after telling the Supreme Court that the diamond was a gift to the United Kingdom.
    Writing on the Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trip to Kashmir, the Tribune writes "PM invokes Vajpayee for taking Jammu and Kashmir to 'new heights', says will work shoulder to shoulder with Mehbooba for development".
    Commenting on the latest confrontation of the AAP government with the Centre, Hindustan Times says "Jung in dark as AAP government names prisons chief". "AAP government appoints new DG, Tihar, L-G nullifies it" informs the Hindu.
    The Business Standard quotes the Finance Minister Arun Jaitley as saying "Good monsoon may push growth to 8.5 percent".
    "Centre rejects Tamil Nadu's proposal to free Rajiv Gandhi killers" leads the Hindu adding the "Home Ministry says  it has no authority as issue is sub judice".
    And finally, The Times of India reports that William Shakespeare is understood better in India than in the UK. The iconic playwright's popularity in the emerging economies exceeds his fame in the UK, a survey has found. 

Salute! Hyderabad lady police constables help woman deliver baby on road

Salute! Hyderabad lady police constables help woman deliver baby on road

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES



    The issuing of a non bailable arrest warrant for loan fraud against Vijay Mallya, External Affairs minister Sushma Swaraj asking China to review its action blocking Indian bid to get Masood Azhar banned by the UN,  the Uttrakhand High Court observing that the Governor should have stayed his hands" while dealing with the speaker over Assembly proceedings and gymnast Dipa Karmakar vaulting into Indian sports history are some lead stories across papers today.
    The Mail Today leads with the story of India's Dipa Karmakar becoming the first female gymnast from the country to qualify for the Olympics.
    Referring to the government's stance on its claim on the Kohinoor Diamond, the Asian Age writes, "Government says can't get back Kohinoor, it was gifted, not taken by force".
    The Times of India reports that P. Chidambaram had signed the original affidavit describing Ishrat Jahan as part of a Lashkar-Module.
    The Business section of the Hindustan Times writes that for 2015-2016, exports fell 15.8 percent to a five year low of 261.13 billion dollars due to fragile global demand and low commodity prices.
    The Financial Express writes that while the government's plan to increase the minimum wage will be welcomed by workers and trade unions, but if not matched by increases in productivity, this could hit overall employment growth, which is already quite poor.
    Writing about the dramatic increase in taxi fares by app based service providers during the roll out of the odd-even scheme in Delhi, the Times of India headlines "Uber, Ola suspend "Surge pricing" as government sends notice on high fares".
    And finally, "Over 40? asks the Times of India? Then work just three days a week. The paper writes that according to researchers, middle aged people are most productive in this time frame.

ProPublica Wins Third Pulitzer Prize for ‘An Unbelievable Story of Rape’

ProPublica Wins Third Pulitzer Prize for ‘An Unbelievable Story of Rape’

NEWSPAPERS  HEADLINES

     The strongest 7.8 earthquake to hit Ecuador in decades, is widely reported on in papers. The Statesman reports that the quake flattened buildings and buckled highways along its Pacific Coast, killing over 233 person, and leaving 580 injured.
    The Patel Stir erupting again in Gujarat, also receives notice in the Press. The Pioneer writes "Patel quota rally turns violent, curfew clamped".  The police have taken about 1,000 agitators into preventive custody.
    "Handwara girl meets Chief Judicial Magistrate, repeats clean chit to army" - is a headline in The Indian Express. Hindustan Times reports, A school girl in Jammu & Kashmir's Handwara told a magistrate that she was not molested by an army soldier - an allegation that led to five deaths, as security forces fired at protesters during wide-spread unrest since Tuesday.
    The fact-finding Prakash Singh Panel, probing the Jat agitation that shook Haryana in February, has heard testimonies confirming that a section of the police force virtually rebelled during those three days of arson, deserting their posts and ignoring orders, reports The Indian Express.
    "Centre to let Pakistani Hindus buy land and open accounts", headlines The Asian Age. People belonging to the minority communities of Pakistan and staying in India on Long-term visas will soon be allowed to buy property, open bank accounts and get Pan and Aadhar cards, reports The Asian Age.
    And finally, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose's aide, Nizamuddin at 116 years of age, could be the oldest living man on the planet, according to a document submitted to his SBI account in Azam Garh district of UP, reports The Times of India. 

Ecuador earthquake: Deaths rise to 235

Ecuador earthquake: Deaths rise to 235

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

    "On Day 2, odd-even politics takes wheel". Under this caption, Hindustan Times writes that "day two" of the car-rationing scheme to unclog the city’s roads and clear its foul air opened on Saturday with chief minister Arvind Kejriwal accusing the BJP of sabotage and suspecting it of being behind an auto-taxi strike called on Monday.
    The Indian Express reports that Pakistan Police have claimed to have arrested two alleged agents of Research & Analysis Wing from southern Sindh province.
    Under the caption, "After Mann Ki Baat, govt. eyes cross-border charcha", The Hindu says that All India Radio officials are calling it a soft diplomatic initiative involving the humble radio which will broadcast to neighbouring Bangladesh an interesting mix of programmes from AIR’s External Services Division.
    Badgered by temple office-bearers for moving to ban a popular fireworks event in Kollam, Kollam District Collector Shainamool is in the middle of a storm in Kerala with the state DGP accusing her of failing to prevent the temple tragedy, writes The Sunday Express.
    Faced with acute water shortage, the Aurangabad authorities in the parched Marathwada region have announced a 20% cut for breweries in the region, writes The Asian Age.
    Mail Today reports that some of the top doctors of Indian origin in the UK have warned the young Indian doctors about pursuing their profession in the UK saying the system there is notoriously racist, discriminatory and awful.
    And finally, it was perhaps one of their most awaited photo-ops in India: British royal couple William and Kate at the Taj Mahal, 24 years after a forlorn Diana was pictured sitting alone on a marble bench with the stunning 17th century monument in the background, writes The Times of India.

 

Obesity increasingly becoming a cause for infertility in urban Indian women

Obesity increasingly becoming a cause for infertility in urban Indian women

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

    Writing on the latest on the liquor baron Vijay Mallya's money laundering case the Business Standard says "Mallya's passport suspended,Enforcement Directorate seeks warrant.""Stage set for Vijay Mallya's deportation as Ministry of External Affairs suspends his passport"states the Indian Express.
    On the Rafale fighter jets, the Pioneer leads "36 Rafale jets for 60,000 crore rupees.""Rafale deal in final stage, price narrowed down" informs the Asian Age.
    "Hidden vetoes must go, India tells U.N."headlines the Hindu."Stung by China's UN move on Jaish chief, India wants end to hidden veto", writes Hindustan Times.
    The Hindu in a front page exclusive story writes that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) is probing  Lashkar link to Samjhauta Train blasts of 2007, and seeks help from the United States.
    Commenting on the unabated violence in Kashmir the Hindu writes "18-year-old killed in Kashmir firing". "Class -XI student fifth to die as Kashmir protests spread", states the Indian Express.
    "Supreme Court to hold Saturday hearings to reduce backlog", writes the Economic Times, adding "Chief Justice of India says Delhi Pollution, extra Judicial killings cases to be heard over the weekend".
    Day 1 of the odd even plan's second phase makes for front page news in most of the dailies this morning."Big jump in violations as odd even returns"leads Hindustan Times adding "real test on Monday when offices, schools open after long weekend". "Empty roads, yet 1,311 challans on 1st day of odd even phase 2",informs the Times of India.
    And finally, The Times of India reports that, Scientists have found how to control the behaviour of heart muscle cells using laser radiation, an advance that may lead to better understanding of the heart's mechanisms  and help treat arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat. 

India to pay $8.8 bn for Rafale fighter jets: reports

India to pay $8.8 bn for Rafale fighter jets: reports 

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

    Newspapers today have different leads, with B.R. Ambedkar's birth anniversary dominating headlines.
    "On Ambedkar's 125th birth anniversary, all parties lay claim to legacy", headlines The Hindustan Times. The Indian Express quips "It's my Ambedkar vs your Ambedkar".
    The mother & brother of Rohith Vemula, the Hyderabad University student who committed suicide in January, adopted Buddhism in the presence of Ambedkar's grandson, covers the Asian Age on its front page, with a photograph.
    "Indira arts centre's overhaul raises din", writes the Pioneer, of the Govt forming a new board for the IGNCA.
    "Govt to turn on odd-even heat with more boots on ground", is the lead in the Times of India. The Pioneer says "Govt poised to get even with odd fish as phase-II begins".
    "Agriculture gets 'national market' " states the Tribune, of the online trading platform launched by the Prime Minister yesterday.
    "Food scandal in Badal's Punjab Rains woes on Bank Books" headlines the Economic Times, of disappearing food stocks in Punjab godowns.
    "EWS quota haunts private city schools" reports the Hindustan Times, as the govt is to verify nursery admissions of 2015.
    The Finance Ministry has exempted business entities from paying service tax on certain services, where gross amount payable does not exceed 5000 rupees, notes the Times of India.
    "Reward for auto drivers for helping accident victims". The Hindu reports, the Delhi govt will soon award 2000 rupees to auto drivers rushing road accident & trauma victims to hospitals.
    And finally, Shaktiman, the police horse whose leg had to be amputated, after being injured at a protest rally, gets a leg-up as an American flew 12000 kms with a prosthetic limb for him. Shaktiman is now expected to walk within 45 days, reports the Times of India.

125-foot tall Ambedkar statue to come up in Hyderabad

125-foot tall Ambedkar statue to come up in Hyderabad

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

    This morning's papers report extensively on the Bombay High Court ruling which ordered the shifting of all IPL matches after 30th April - from Maharashtra to other states. "Bombay High Court boots out 13 IPL ties from parched Maharshtra", is the top Hindustan Times headline. The Statesmen writes BCCI gets 18 days to look for new venues for 13 matches in May.
    The other major story is of Kashmir remaining tense. The Pioneer states the J&K school girl divulging truth, who was alleged to have been molested by soldiers, was instead harassed by local Handwara boys and triggered off violent protest that claimed four lives. The Hindu writes that Prime Minster Narendra Modi will visit J&K on April the 19th, his first visit to the state after the swearing in of Mehbooba Mufti as Chief Minister.
    "Market cheer rain, economic date", headlines The Financial Express. Indian stock rallied to a three month high on Wednesday, as retail inflation eased and the weather office predicted above-normal monsoon. The Sensex closed at 25, 626 on Wednesday.
    The Economic Times informs us that Vijay Mallya may make a revised 6,000 crore rupee settlement offer to banks, that are looking to recover 9,000 crore rupee from Kingfisher Airlines, even as the ED has sought revocation of Mallya's Pasport. Mallya's offer may involve staggered payments till September.
    And finally,.. The Times of India carries a picture of the 90 year old Buddhist monk Bhadanta Pragyanand, who is the only surviving monk who witnessed the spiritual makeover of Babasahib Bheemrao Ambedkar on October 14th 1956, when the dalit icon embraced Buddhism at Nagpur on that day.  

Babies Born To Older Moms May Be Smarter, Healthier: Study

Babies Born To Older Moms May Be Smarter, Healthier: Study

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

    Monsoon to be above average is the lead in all newspapers this Morning.
    "Monsoon Cheer" announces the Business Standard, as the Met department forecasts above normal rainfall for the first time since 1999. The Economic Times says, "After 2 Droughts, skies could Shower a Bounty".
    "Supreme Court hints at appointing officer to monitor government's relief efforts" in drought affected districts, informs the Hindustan Times. The Pioneer reports "Government mulling loan waiver for farmers hit by drought".
    "Supreme Court pulls up RBI, says loan defaulters flee while farmers suffer" highlights the Hindustan Times. "RBI supposed to keep vigil on bad loans", the Pioneer quotes the apex court.
    "Most Indians' Panama accounts may be via legal channel" informs the Economic Times, as initial inquiries suggest 90 per cent have used RBI's liberalised remittance scheme. "Probe begins; Tax notices go out to  all the names revealed " headlines the Indian Express.
    "India, US ramp up defence cooperation" highlights the Statesman on its front page. "Indian bases to open doors to US warships, planes" reports the Times of India.
    "National Eligibility Test not needed for those who registered for PhD before 2009" is another front page story in the Hindustan Times.
    Delhi government offers Rohit Vemula's brother, an MSc, a Grade IV job, citing rules that only a Grade IV job can be offered on compassionate grounds, reports the Hindu.
    "Endorsers face jail for misleading ads" according to recommendations by a Parliamentary Committee, in a bid to make celebrity endorsers accountable, reports the Times of India.
    "CISF bans face masks, burquas for Delhi Metro entry", days after a daring robbery, informs the Asian Age.
    Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal has sought scrapping of learner's licence test, as it only created room for corruption, notes the Times of India.
    And finally, "Top woman biker dies as she lived - in the saddle" reports the Times of India. One of India's foremost women bikers, Veenu Paliwal, died after her Harley Davidson motorcycle skidded into a culvert in Madhya Pradesh on Monday.

Above normal monsoon big positive; agri to benefit: Experts

Above normal monsoon big positive; agri to benefit: Experts

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

    The Kerala temple fire tragedy continues to be one of the top stories in the dailies this morning. "Three cars with explosives seized near Kerala temple" leads the Hindu. "Kerala High Court mulls ban on ominous fireworks" states the Pioneer.
    The day two of the Indian tour of the Duke and Duchess of  Cambridge is also covered prominently with photographs in all the dailies.
    Another story that dominates headlines is that of two Indian Medical Students killed in a knife attack by gang of looters in Ukraine's Uzagorod town.
    "Single test for all Medical colleges" leads the Pioneer. "Supreme Court recalls its 2013 order, common medical entrance exam to return" informs Hindustan Times.
    Commenting on the polls in Assam and Bengal the Asian Age reads "High turnouts seen in Assam, Bengal polling". "Assam vote ends with high turnout, case against Chief Minister" notes the Hindu adding "79.51 per cent recorded in West Bengal but final count may go up.
    The Business Standard reports on its bottom spread that the National Payments Corporation of India unveiled the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). This is hailed as a next generation technology in the money transfer space. It is set to completely revolutionise payments by making it as simple as sending a text message on a mobile phone.
    Most of the papers take note that the number of wild tigers has gone up globally by 22 percent to 3,890, from the 2010 estimate of 3,200 based on the best available data, according to the World Wild Life fund and the Global Tiger Forum (GTF).
    And finally, a new link has been found between Alzheimer's and diabetes, reports The Asian Age.

India Mends Ties With Maldives

India Mends Ties With Maldives 

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

    The fire tragedy at the Puttingal Devi temple in Kerala dominates the front pages with most papers putting out pictures of the debris and rubble at the site. Describing the horrific nature of the tragedy, the Pioneer writes "Accident site resembles carpet-bombed ground".
    Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar taking over the reins of the JD(U) from the outgoing party president Sharad Yadav is prominently noticed in the press. The Asian Age states "Nitish takes over as new JD-U chief : Aims to challenge BJP in UP in 2017 and 2019 Lok Sabha polls".
    Most papers take note of actor Anupam Kher's visit to Srinagar to meet students of the National Institute of Technology NIT. "Kher goes to Srinagar but cant leave airport" reports the Hindustan Times. The Asian Age quotes Kher as saying "Not allowed to visit family home".
    An elaborate five-layer security plan to completely stop infiltration across the 2900 kilometer border with Pakistan is highlighted on the front page of the Times of India under the caption "India plans five-layer lock for Pak border". The paper writes that this plan entails round-the-clock surveillance CCTV cameras, thermal imaging, night vision devices and laser barriers.
    The Indian Express highlights a very unique train journey under the caption "A train pulls in late at night, raising a cheer over 300 kms away". The paper writes that a train with 50 tankers pulled into Miraj in Sangli district late Saturday night to be filled with water for its onward journey to water starved Latur district.

‘Explosives Rules, court directives were flouted’ at Kollam temple

‘Explosives Rules, court directives were flouted’ at Kollam temple

TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS,

The second phase of the odd even scheme in Delhi makes for front page news in most of the dailies this morning. "If round 2 works, odd-even may alternate every fortnight" leads Hindustan Times adding "Besides women drivers, exemption include vehicles carrying students in uniform". "Odd-even may be enforced for a fortnight every month" states the Times of India.

AIADMK supremo and Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Jayalalithaa assuring of a dry law in Tamil Nadu if voted to power is another major story this morning. The Hindu writes "Jaya pledges phased prohibition" informs the Statesman. "Jayalalithaa vows to phase out liquor"

Writing on the latest on the situation in the National Institute of Technology (NIT)  Srinagar, the Indian Express headline reads "Ally BJP seeks to lower heat". "can't move NIT out, don't trash Jammu and Kashmir police". The Hindu quotes the Ministry of Human Resource and Development as saying "NIT will remain in Srinagar".

Writing on the flagship Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employement Gurantee Scheme, the Business Standard says "MNREGA labour budget cut by 220 million person-days" adding that "2,170 million person-days planned for financial year 2017, compared with 2,391 million person-days last year".

On the Panama papers the Indian Express writes "Mossack Fonseca on I-T radar for 9 years, details sought".

Most of the papers report that President Pranab Mukherjee warned that pluralism and tolerance, which have been the hallmark of Indian civilisation, cannot be turned into fiction due to the "whims and caprices of a rigid few".

The Pioneer in its bottom spread carries a story about how the absence of legal aid is one of the main reasons for the rise in number of undertrials committing suicide in prisons across the country. Significantly, undertrial prisoners constitute 67 percent of inmates in Indian jails.

Referring to the Delhi hit and run case the Hindu reports that "Hit-and-run Mercedes father in police custody" adding that police arrested Manoj Agarwal and booked him for abetment of the act.

And finally, there is good news for those who love full fat milk. It turns out it is healthier for us than skim milk. Well the Times of India reports a new study published in the journal Circulation suggests low-fat dairy, like skim milk, puts you at greater risk of developing diabetes.

Tamil Nadu: Jayalalithaa promises phased prohibition if elected to power

Tamil Nadu: Jayalalithaa promises phased prohibition if elected to power

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

    The naming of five new state unit chiefs by the BJP  ahead of assembly polls in key states grabs front page attention. "BJP turns to dalit, OBCs in key states : former CM Yedyurappa to head Karnataka unit" reports the Asian Age. The Tribune writes "Sampla is Punjab BJP chief, Maurya surprise pick for UP".
    In a front page special, the Indian Express reports "Prime Minister asks for first report on Panama Papers revelations in 15 days". The paper had broken the story on off-shore entities in tax havens acquired for illegal purposes involving Indian nationals.
    The issuing of non bailable warrants against the alleged masterminds of the Pathankot air-base terror attack case is widely noticed. The Pioneer writes "Non bailable warrants out for Jaish e Mohammed Chief Azhar, Rauf, two others in Pathankot case".
    Jail terms for the former heads of two defence firms on charges of corruption in the sale of 12 VVIP helicopters to India is prominently noticed in the press. "Two ex-CEOs jailed in Italy for Westland deal" states the Hindustan Times.
    The issue of the students row at NIT Srinagar continues to be tracked by the media. "Shift institute out of J&K, say protesting students" reports the Times of India.
    Photographs of women praying in the shrine area of the Shani Shignapur temple in Maharashtra following a Bombay High court order are splashed across all the papers. The Asian Age writes "Maharashtra temple ends 400 year women's ban".

Indian temple opens inner sanctum to women

Indian temple opens inner sanctum to women

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

    The Supreme Court ordering  Vijay Mallya to disclose assets, India and Pakistan not being on the same page on how to move forward in the Pathankot airbase terror attack investigation and the Bombay High Court refusing to stay the first match of the IPL are some of the front page stories across papers today.

    "Pak envoy Accuses India of suspending dialogue" writes the Hindu, while the Pioneer writes "India raps Basit for saying peace process suspended".

    Referring to the fallout of the Panama papers disclosures, the Indian Express writes - "Jaitley warns of sleepless nights for illegal firms".

    Under the headline "Don't try any hanky panky, Uttarakhand High Court warns centre", the Times of India writes that the court said this in response to the Chief Minister's counsel moving an application saying that the centre may lift central rule in the state during the court's recess.

    The Indian Express writes that Eminent Jurist Fali S Nariman has appealed to the President to guard against attempts to muzzle dissent, which he said, is essential for an effective democracy to function and cautioned against a growing perception that the country can be more effectively governed only when all executive powers lie  with "one person".

    Reporting on the Defamation case file by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, the Asian Age says that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and five other AAP leaders have been granted bail by a Delhi Court.

    The Asian Age writes that In a monumental literary find, a copy of William Shakespeare's original First Folio, has been discovered at a stately home on a remote Scottish island.

IIT students call fee hike unfair, authorities say it was necessary

IIT students call fee hike unfair, authorities say it was necessary

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

    The Srinagar NIT row gets top billing amongst a wide range of stories in papers today.
    "Nationalism rage engulfs NIT", is the lead in the Pioneer, while Hindu headlines it as "NIT flare-up refuses to die, HRD Ministry sends team".
    On the drought vs IPL debate, the Hindustan Times leads with "Supreme Court reads out the drought act" saying, govt can't turn a blind eye to unpaid MNREGA wages.  The paper also quotes the Bombay High Court  as asking, "Are IPL matches more important than people?"
    On a more optimistic note, the Business Standard writes "Rains may break 2 - year EL Nino Jinx" as a better monsoon after a hotter than usual summer would boost agriculture.
    On the continuing Panama expose', the Indian Express reports "Mystery offshore firm was part of 2010 IPL Pune franchise bid, closed days later".
    "Indians among 21 held in US govt visa 'sting'", reports the Asian Age. The Times of India writes "US busts education, job scam; desis among 1,000 to be deported; officials set up fake university to trap brokers".
    "FB, Twitter, Google asked to set up India servers", by the Union Home Ministry, to get real time information about accounts which spread mischievous messages, reports the Hindu.
    The Indian Express reports "Court asks bank to defreeze accounts of firm 'favoured' by Kejriwal's secretary", in a major set back for the CBI.
    "Fresh protest on Hyderabad varsity campus, 70 held as students intensified their demand for removal of vice chancellor", writes the Hindustan Times.
    Hindustan Times also reports "After six decades, India to get new safety standards for milk".
    And finally, "Another first for Delhi Metro : 'Driver-less' trains soon", designed to accommodate more passengers, & to hit the tracks in 2017, repo

Telangana BJP Pushes for Safety of Outstation Students at NIT

Telangana BJP Pushes for Safety of Outstation Students at NIT

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

    The launch of Prime Ministers "Stand up India" initiative is one of the top stories in the dailies this morning."Prime Ministers Stand Up India launched,aimed at dalits" writes the Asian Age. The Pioneer quotes Prime Minister Modi as saying "Will turn job seekers into job creators"."Prime Minister woos UP Dalits with new jobs plan".headlines Hindustan Times.
    The RBI cutting interest rates to 5 year low is the other major story in the newspapers this morning."RBI cuts rates,eases liquidity" is the lead in Business Standard."RBI sticks to with 25 Basis Points cut" states the Financial Express adding "steps to up liquidity could mean cheaper loans."
    Referring to the Supreme Court's rap to BCCI the Times of India says "Supreme Court slams BCCI, calls it 'mutual benefit society'".
    On Bihar banning liquor, the Tribune writes "Bihar bans liquor, is fourth state to go dry". "Bihar goes totally 'dry' as summer sets in" informs the Pioneer. "Nitish government imposes total liquor ban in Bihar" notes the Asian Age.
    Referring to the Panama leak the Statesman states "Iceland Prime Minister resigns, other world leaders hit back at charges". "Big B says no links with firms on list" writes the Asian Age.
    Commenting on the latest on the Pathankot terror attack case the Asian Age writes "Fresh India, Pak blame game starts, NIA, other agencies slam 'doublespeak' on JIT visit".
    The Pioneer in a front page story writes that in "A step closer to decongest Delhi", Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the much awaited Palwal-Manesar stretch of Western peripheral E-way.

Why the New York Times downplayed the Panama Papers

Why the New York Times downplayed the Panama Papers

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

    The Panama expose, and HRD rankings to Central Universities get wide coverage this morning.
    "140 Politicians, Public Figures in Panama Leaks" is the lead in the Statesman. Business Standard states "Government promises action on Panama papers". The Indian Express headlines "PM steps in: Income Tax, RBI panel to probe offshore trail".
    Mehbooba Mufti taking over in Jammu and Kashmir is also noticed prominently with photographs. Mail Today states "Crown of thorns for first woman Chief Minister in Jammu and Kashmir.
    "India may review investment rules for China businessmen", days after China stalled India's bid to ban Jaish-e-Mohammad chief, Masood Azhar at the UN, reports the Asian Age.
    "AMU could lose minority status" is the lead in the Hindustan Times. The Pioneer reports "Centre won't fight for minority tag to Aligarh University; Decides to take back UPA Government's appeal against Allahabad High Court decision.
    "7.1 crore students take private tuitions", the Times of India quotes an NSSO report that takes the veil off a parallel shadow education system, that gobbles 12% of family budgets.
    "Cambridge University to train government school principals " as part of the government teachers' training initiative, is a story in the Hindustan Times.
    The Pioneer, the Hindu and Times of India report "47 cops get life for 1991 Pilibhit fake encounter" in which 10 Sikh pilgrims were killed.
    "Court grants bail to Saibaba, says police were unfair to him" reports the Hindustan Times, of Delhi University Professor, G.N Saibaba, arrested for alleged Maoist links.

Panama Lawyers at Center of Offshore Scandal Make Odd Couple

Panama Lawyers at Center of Offshore Scandal Make Odd Couple

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

    The Prime Minister's Saudia Arabia visit, the brutal murder of the NIA officer in Bijnore, Mehbooba Mufti to take oath as J&K CM, and the beginning of the first phase of polling in Assam and West Bengal are the lead stories in today's dailies.
    Newspapers carry photographs of Prime Minister Modi receiving 'The Order of Abdullah', the highest civilian award of Saudi Arabia, in Riyadh on Sunday.
    "Made in India. India's ambitious Chandrayaan II mission will be completely indigenous, with 'minor' help from NASA, ISRO has announced" reports Hindustan Times.
    "Cheer for farmers - good monsoon ahead" is the anchor story on the Pioneer's front page. " The Met department forecasts 89 cm, which is 100 - 102 per cent of the normal."
    "Everyday medicines to cost less as regulator slashes prices by 3 per cent," notes Hindustan Times, bringing relief to the common man. "The prices of over 100 medicines have been aligned according to the change in the wholesale price index-based inflation."
    In another move that will benefit the public, "Government slashes spectrum use charge, phone bills may drop," reports the Times of India. "The move is expected to be a confidence booster ahead of the mega auctions slated for July."
    And finally...Cricket. "Six! Six! Six! Six! Windies win!" headlines Hindustan Times, of the spectacular, nail-biting, last-over clincher of the T-20 World Cup tournament. Exhibiting nerves of steel and dogged determination, it was celebration time for the euphoric Caribbean country!

Panama Papers: Mossack Fonseca leak reveals elite's tax havens

Panama Papers: Mossack Fonseca leak reveals elite's tax havens

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

    Newspapers this morning lead with different stories, with the Nuclear summit covered widely.
    "Obama tells India and Pak to reduce Nuclear-threat" is the Hindustan Times Headline. Times of India leads with "Obama sounds alarm over Pak's theft-prone mini - nukes". The Financial Express writes "World wakes up to nuclear threat by non-state actors".
    "Modi pledges 24x7 MADAD for expats" with a multi-lingual helpline, on his visit to Saudi Arabia, reports the Pioneer. The paper adds, the PM's talks with the Saudi King are to focus on anti-terror cooperation to put pressure on Pak.
    'India failed to prove role of Pak terrorists in Pathankot attack' the Hindustan Times quotes the Pakistani joint investigation team, a day after its return from India.
    "Tradition trumps court, locals keep women out of Shani temple" reports the Hindustan Times.
    "Vice-President calls on Supreme Court to help clarify and strengthen secularism, composite culture" is the lead in the Indian Express. At a Jammu University convocation, Vice President Hamid Ansari wondered whether a more complete separation of religion and politics might not serve Indian democracy better.
    "Govt survey finds Hyderabad varsity, JNU best in India" reports the Hindustan Times, of the two universities now at the centre of a raging debate over nationalism and free speech.
    "Unclaimed PF deposits to be diverted" to finance Senior Citizen's Welfare Fund, reports the Hindu.
    The paper also notes, "Delhi Government pays 'highest ever' compensation for farmers' land".
    The Indian Express in its Page One Anchor, reports of a Supreme Court bench directing state governments to prepare a format for a certificate of appreciation to be distributed to hospitals to incentivise the bystander or Good Samaritan, who rushes accident victims for medical care.
    "First Batallion of Indian Gorkhas is born" comprising only Indian domiciles instead of Nepalese troops, as in other Gorkha units of the Army, informs the Tribune.
    And finally, "Delhi to Amritsar in just 150 minutes!" says the Pioneer, of a Railway plan for a 300 km per hour bullet train from the Capital to the Golden City via Chandigarh.

Vivacious Windies take on meticulous English in finals

Vivacious Windies take on meticulous English in finals

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

    Arrests made in connection with the collapse of an under-construction flyover in Kolkata dominates the front pages. "Kolkata toll 24, 3 officials held on murder charges" reports the Tribune. Adding a twist to this tragedy, the Pioneer writes "TMC MP claims Mamata Government was alerted about faulty design".
    Prime Minister Narendra Modi's comments at a dinner hosted by US President Barack Obama for world leaders attending the Nuclear Security Summit in Washington are prominently noticed. The Times of India quotes Mr Modi as saying "State sponsored nuclear terror biggest risk". The Hindustan Times writes "Drop notion that his terrorist is not mine, says PM at nuclear summit".
    Most papers take note of the Bombay High Court order on ending gender discrimination with regard to entry of women to religious places. The Times of India quotes the Court as saying "Women have same right as men to enter temples".
    Islamic seminary Darul Uloom Deoband's stand on the chanting of "Bharat Mata ki Jai" is widely reported. "Darul Uloom issues fatwa against 'Baharat Mata' slogan" states the Pioneer. The Asian Age writes "BJP, Sena slam Deoband over Baharat Mata edict".
    With larger pictorial warnings on cigarette packets set to kick in from April 1, tobacco majors have taken a very drastic step. The Pioneer reports "All cigarette factories to shut in protest, lose  350 crores Rupees a day".
    The death of Pratyusha Banerjee, a very popular TV artist is taken note of by all the papers. The Hindustan Times  reports "Pratyusha Banerjee of Balika Vadhu fame commits suicide".
    And finally... the Times of India highlights an interesting statistic as it writes "Shot in the arm for government as Aadhar enrolment hits 1 billion". The paper adds "can save upto  70 Thousand crores Rupees a year in government schemes".

3 construction officials arrested over Indian overpass

 3 construction officials arrested over Indian overpass

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

    "Flyover being built since 2009, collapses in Kolkata, 21 killed", the Asian Age headlines. The illfated Vivekanand setu came  crashing down at 12:35 pm yesterday in the densely populated Burra Bazar; Netas in blame game, Army rushed, says the report.
    Now Class 5th & 8th students will have to clear, their exams to get promoted. The HRD Minister Smirti Irani is all set to follow this rule though the centre would have to amend the RTE law says the Hindustan Times.
    Country's water reservoir levels are at 25 per cent capacity due to a deficit in Monsoon rains in the last 2 years reports Financial Express.
    The Hindu reports that Indian Government has decided not to join a US maintained global terror data base in the face of objections from intelligence agencies.
    The Agriculture Ministry asks states to issue tenders for PM crop insurance - aims to cover 50 per cent farmers in 3 years is the Hindu Business Line report.
    Of the 28 crore people waiting the Aadhar, 8 crore are under 5 years - No child's play headlines the Economic Times.
    Goa, Hawai to be sister states/Varanasi to start a solid waste management mission/Supreme Court extending ban on big diesel cars/Gold demand at a 7 year low/26 Government Ministries joining hands with institutes like IIT', IISC to promote research are some of the other stories covered by newspapers today.
    And to end on a happy note - Madhya Pradesh will be the first state of India to have a Happiness Ministry reports Times of India.