After Minimum Income Promise, Rahul Bats for Women’s Quota Bill

After Minimum Income Promise, Rahul Bats for Women’s Quota Bill

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES,
Almost all the dailies have covered the news of conviction of the chief of the National Democratic Front of Bodoland, Ranjan Daimary. "Bodo outfit's leader, 14 others convicted in Assam blasts case", reports The Hindu.
On the Coalition government close to implosion in Karnataka and facing its biggest test ahead of the Lok sabha elections, The Asian Age writes, "Karnataka CM warns Congress: Control MLAs, or I will quit".
"Polls coming, Sena signals it is ready to deal with BJP" with a personal bond with Modi, writes the Indian Express.
"Rahul vows minimum income for poor", is a headline in The Tribune. Quoting the Congress president it adds, "No government in the world has done this till now".
"Superbug' first identified in Delhi surface in Arctic" headlines the Hindustan Times, triggering concerns about the speed with which superbugs can spread across the world.
Government may infuse 54,000 crore rupees in February" into the Capital Starved public sector banks, reports the Financial Express.
Apple's main assemblers are shifting more output to India and Southeast Asia as trade tensions threaten to escalate costs in their longstanding production base of China has been reported under the headline, "Apples partners quicken shift from China to India, Vietnam", in the same newspaper.
The Times of India writes, "IITs may roll out 5 per cent EWS quota in 2019-20"
"2020 XII boards may see practicals in humanities" is another front page headlines in the Times of India.
"Supreme Court to decide if Sanskrit shlokas in school is religious imposition" writes the DNA, on a petition filed in the Supreme Court.
And finally, a headline in The Pioneer writes about India on its way to double its tiger population despite several constraints, "War of the springing tiger: Big cats' number may double by 2020".

Rahul Gandhi's Gamechanger? Minimum Income Guarantee If Voted To Power

Rahul Gandhi's Gamechanger? Minimum Income Guarantee If Voted To Power

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES,
News papers have picked up different stories for their lead this morning.
PM Modi sounds the poll bugle in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The Hindu reports "In Tamil Nadu, Modi hits out at critics of 10% quota". The paper quotes the Prime Minister as saying "Self-centred forces trying to create suspicion". "Assures action against looters" says The Asian Age.
The Statesman writes "CBI cop probing ICICI bank case transferred" adding "Officers role suspected in leakages; also alleged to have sat on preliminary enquiry".
On Ram Janambhoomi-Babri Masjid land title dispute case the Hindustan Times writes "Judge unavailable, Ayodhya hearing to be delayed again".
Justice S. Muralidhar of Delhi High Court delivered verdicts convicting UP PAC in Hashimpura killings and Sajjan Kumar. The Indian Express reports "Move to transfer Delhi High Court's Justice Muralidhar, stalled by Supreme Court judges".
On dropping sex ratio in the southern states, The Times of India writes, "Bad news for girls: Sex ratio at birth plunges in south". The paper adds that Kerala is the lone state to buck the alarming trend.
On the upcoming Budget  The Economic Times writes "Farm stress busters, tax sops on government agenda".
News papers also carry reports and photograph of world no 1 Novak Djokovic who beat Spaniard Rafael Nadal in straight sets to clinch a record 7th Australian Open title, the Serb's third slam win in a row.
And finally, Pench Princess on record breaking spree, proud mother of 8th litter. Well, The Pioneer reports that a Royal Bengal tigress in Madhya Pradesh's Pench Tiger Reserve, popularly known as Collarwali Baghin, continues to break records as she has yet again given birth the eighth time to four cubs. Before the eighth litter, she was already a proud mother of 26 cubs.

Typical of Communists to Mess With Our Culture: Modi Attacks Kerala Govt Over Sabarimala

Typical of Communists to Mess With Our Culture: Modi Attacks Kerala Govt Over Sabarimala

AN OVERVIEW OF TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:-


Colourful pictures and details of the Republic day celebrations at Rajpath and ED nabbing an accused in the VVIP chopper deal case are a couple of stories that find a front-page mention across dailies today.
"R-day parade pays tribute to Mahatma, nations's diversity" headlines the Asian Age while The Hindustan Times carries a picture of resplendent Rashtrpati Bhavan with a caption "The Republic day in all its glory"
"ED nabs Agusta accused Khaitan" reads the headline in the DNA with a subtext 'Alleges he stashed black money in foreign accounts' whereas The Hindu says, "ED rearrests lawyer accused in Agusta Westland chopper case"
Writing on the govt's plan to boost military infrastructure in the Andamans the Sunday Times writes, "Eye on China, govt finalises Rs 5k-cr defense plan for Andamans" further adding that the plan will spread over 10 years period.
The paper runs another headline regarding govt statistics on declining poverty rate that says, "Poverty falling faster than you thought?" adding 'centre to release new data in June'
"Cold wave to return for three days, rain expected next week" writes the hindustan times, coupled with a picture of a foggy street in Gurgaon, adding, ' Chilly conditions set to bring night temperature down to 4 degrees, warmer days, rain to follow'.
Writing on the govt's fresh bid to bail out Air India the DNA reports, "Govt to release Rs 1500 crore to debt-ridden Air India next week"
"Soon, you can see how the Harappans looked" Reports the Hindu of a study undertaken at Deccan college in Pune by professor Vasant Shinde and his team, who are on

We Can Resolve Ram Temple Issue in 24 Hours, Says Yogi Adityanath Ahead of SC Hearing

We Can Resolve Ram Temple Issue in 24 Hours, Says Yogi Adityanath Ahead of SC Hearing

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES
The announcement of the Bharat Ratna Award, India's highest civilian honour, is prominently noticed on the front pages of most papers. On the award being conferred on former President Pranab Mukherjee, noted singer and musician late Bhupen Hazarika and RSS veteran late Nanaji Deshmukh, the Times of India writes, " Government reaches out to many Bharats with three Ratnas ; woos Bengal and North East, honours Sangh icon". The Asian Age notes "Award announced after gap of four years".
Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley's comments in the backdrop of the CBI naming top bankers in an FIR against ICICI CEO and MD, Chanda Kochchar and her husband Deepak Kochchar, are widely noticed in the press. The Times of India reports " Jaitley cautions CBI against investigative adventurism". The Indian Express quotes Mr Jaitley as writing in a blog " If we include entire who's who banking, what cause are we serving or hurting".
On the legal challenge in the Supreme Court to the Constitutional Amendment to bring in 10% reservation in jobs and education for the economically weaker sections or EWS , the Hindustan Times informs " SC refuses to stay EWS quota, to assess validity".
The press keenly tracks developments in the Ayodhya case in the Supreme Court.  The Asian Age writes " Chief Justice of India recasts SC bench in Ayodhya case, hearing on January 29". The Times of India notes "Nazeer and Bhushan join 5 judge Ayodhya bench".
President Ram Nath Kovind's republic day message is prominently noticed in all the papers. The Pioneer writes " Prez urges people to perform sacred act of voting during Lok Sabha polls
And finally, the passing away of eminent Hindi writer Krishna Sobti is widely noticed in the press. In its obituary, the Hindustan Times writes " Hindi literature loses one of its leading lights".

Want to Hug PM Modi When He Abuses Me: Rahul Gandhi in Odisha

Want to Hug PM Modi When He Abuses Me: Rahul Gandhi in Odisha

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES
CBI FIR in the ICICI Bank - Videocon loan case is the lead story in most papers this morning.
''CBI books Kochhars, Dhoot over loan fraud'' headlines the Hindustan Times.  ''Kochhar, husband booked for taking 'chanda' from Dhoot'' quips the Times of India. ''Mrs. and Mr. Chanda Kochhar booked'' leads the Indian Express, adding ''CBI FIR tears into clean chit she got from board''.
Stalemate over the new CBI Chief is also highlighted across papers. ''No decision on CBI chief, PM's panel to meet again'' says the Hindustan Times. ''No new CBI chief yet, Kharge seeks more info on probables'' writes the Times of India.
''No going back to era of paper ballots, says CEC'' focuses the Asian Age in a box. The Pioneer states ''CEC puts ballot paper to rest once and for all''.
''Modi to contest from Varanasi again'' is the lead in the Tribune. The paper adds ''BJP sends out clear signal it is in control''.
''Congress goes for kill in UP battle" leads the Pioneer. ''Priyanka given target to form UP Government'' the Asian Age quotes Rahul, adding, ''Congress may go solo in many states''.
''Government lines up sops for jobless, women, unorganised labour'' ahead of the  Lok Sabha Polls, states the Hindustan Times.
''Crocodiles removed for seaplane to Unity Statue'' reports the Indian Express, of the Gujarat Forest Department evacuating crocodiles from two ponds on the Sardar Sarovar Dam premises on the Narmada, to make way for the seaplane service planned to promote tourism at the Statue of Unity.
''TRAI firm on rolling out new DTH tariffs from Feb 1'' observes the Hindu. 'Will ensure customers pay only for channels they want' the paper quotes the regulatory body chief.
And finally, ''Militant who turned soldier wins highest peacetime honour; First Kashmiri recipient will be awarded posthumously on Republic Day, for his courage in a Valley firefight last November, reports the Hindustan Times. ''Ashok Chakra for ultra-turned-soldier Nazir Wani's martyrdom'' writes the Pioneer.

Woman who defied Indian temple ban 'shunned' by family

Woman who defied Indian temple ban 'shunned' by family

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES
All the dailies today have covered the Pravasi Bhartiya Divas event at Varanasi on their front page with The Hindu quoting the Prime Minister highlighting India's potential in sustainable development, "India can lead the world on Solar grid".
The Hindustan Times quotes the former RBI Chief Raghuram Rajan on India to be in a better position to create infrastructure in the region under the headline "India to become bigger than China".
"Google will verify political ads ahead of 2019 elections" in a bid to ensure transparency in election advertising, is another headline in the Hindustan Times.
"Hailstorm rain pelt down on rabi crops" with IMD predicting more farm damage as raging blizzard likely today also informs The Pioneer.  While in a positive it also says "Silver lining in downpour: No speck of pollutants in Delhi".
On the ongoing political storm over EVM hacking claim the Statesman writes, "EC seeks FIR against the self proclaimed Cyber Expert".
"Recovery not in sight, banks to auction 1.16 lakh crore rupee NPAs" reports the DNA Money, about 16 banks putting their unrecovered corporate loans on sale to asset reconstruction companies.
With opposition to the Citizenship(amendment) Bill showing no signs of abating in the North-East, the Ministry of Home Affairs proposes to "provide incentives to those people who want to settle anywhere in India except the North-East" reports the Indian Express.
The Times of India informs about additional slots to be created over two years in universities including IITs, IIMs and NITs under the headline, "Centrally funded universities to add up to 3 lakh seats for 10% quota". Adding "EWS quota to add 16000 seats in Delhi University".
And finally, all the newspapers have covered the news of skipper Virat Kohli sweeping the ICC awards, the first cricketer ever to win ICC's top three player of the year awards.

Telangana: Cabinet Not Formed Even 40 Days After Election; KCR Holds 'Yagam'

Telangana: Cabinet Not Formed Even 40 Days After Election; KCR Holds 'Yagam'

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES
Newspapers carry different leads this morning.
"Anti-Modi opposition alliance spells 'chaos' The Asian Age quotes Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, as saying 'Their negative campaign will help us'.
"CJI decides not to hear plea challenging interim CBI chief appointment" is the lead in the Indian Express.
"Government returns 11 names mooted by Supreme Court collegium as High Court judges" headlines The Times of India.
"Government plans panacea for farmers' woes"  leads the Pioneer. "DBT, regular direct income, interest free crop loan in relief package".
"Centre proposes to hike pensions" for the elderly poor, disabled and widows, as part of the interim budget, reports the Hindu. "Major tax relief for middle-class likely" says the Financial Express.
"Made-In-India Fighters: Rafale Fire Rains on MiG's Retirement Parade". The Economic Times reports the Indian Air Force's wait for new fighter jets to replace an ageing MiG fleet is set to get longer with the selection process unlikely before the polls.
"Shiromani Akali Dal top guns for Lok Sabha polls, a Badal likely from Patiala" observes the Tribune.
"PNB scam's Choksi gives up Indian Passport" notes the Asian Age.
"Delhi put spoke in Phase-IV Metro wheel, says Centre" says the Pioneer, on the controversy surrounding Delhi Metro's phase IV refusing to die down.
"Himalayan glacier recedes as climate change hits home" reports the Hindustan Times, as Chaturangi glacier, a tributary of the Gangotri glacier faces the possibility of vanishing, in the future.
"Kamala Harris joins 2020 White House race" is a box item in the Hindustan Times, as the Democratic senator from California became the first Indian-American woman in history to run for US President.
And finally, "Hampi to Gangtok: UDAN spreads wings, travel and tourism traffic soars" says the Indian Express, since the Centre launched its flagship regional air connectivity scheme UDAN to bring unserved and underserved airports on the country's aviation map.

Election Commission Mulls Legal Action Against Cyber Expert Claiming EVMs Were Hacked

Election Commission Mulls Legal Action Against Cyber Expert Claiming EVMs Were Hacked

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

Karnatakas Janta Dal (Secular) Congress regime's power-game refusing to ease, is covered by several papers. The DNA reports that, Congress MLA Anand Singh was sent to hospital after an alleged brawl with party colleague JN Ganesh at Bengaluru's Eagleton Resort, where the lawmakers had been shifted two day ago to keep the BJP from trying to poach them.
"India set to beat UK as 5th Top Economy", is a headline in The Asian Age. Within a year of surpassing France, India is now all set to beat Britain in 2019, to become the world's fifth largest economy, according to a report by global consultancy giant PwC, with data provided by the World Bank - on the GDP of countries.
Times of India reports that of the over 3.7 lakh children lodged in homes meant for care of children in vulnerable circumstance across India in 2016-17, over 1.2 lakh were the offspring of a single parent - who send them to care homes to ensure their safety and well being. The child often remains in touch with the parent and may later be reunited.
The successful completion of the second Khelo India Youth Games in Maharasthra, is prominently covered by The Times of India. The paper reports that a great deal of new talent has been identified, creating a strong pool of sports person under various disciplines. The just concluded Youth Games have gifted us a new hero, a new star and a new future medal-winner, almost every day.
"Freak weather to rise in India over two decades" is a top headline of Hindustan Times. Pointing towards a rise in catastrophic weather events in India, including last years Kerala floods and freak dust storms in northern India, the Indian MeT Department has said that the year 2000 was a tipping point for the impact of climate change-led warming of the country and scientists predict a cataclysmic fallout by 2040, if emissions are not contained.
And finally, The Hindu writes that the Flamingo Festival had a flying start on Sunday at the picturesque Pulicat lake near Nellore where over 90,000 birds have come from far away place to this second largest brackish water ecosystem in the country. Thousands of birds have built nests on barringtonia trees, to raise their offspring.

Opposition "Vilifying EVMs" To Explain Coming Defeat, Says PM Modi

Opposition "Vilifying EVMs" To Explain Coming Defeat, Says PM Modi

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

The opposition's show of unity at the Brigade Parade Ground Rally in Kolkata calling for Modi's ouster is the story that dominates headlines of newspapers this morning. The Hindu writes  ''PM candidate not a priority, BJP past its expiry date, Mamta tells rally attended by 20 key leaders''.  The Pioneer leads ''United India vows to fight Modi''. DNA headlines " Mahagathbandhan against the nation, says PM".
Writing on the JNU sedition case, Hindustan Times writes ''Court pulls up police on Kanhayia charge sheet''. ''Government and cops in blamegame over sedition case'' notes Asian Age.
In another story the Asian Age quoting Karnataka BJP President B.S. Yeddyurappa says ''Don't worry, we won't destabilise Karnataka government''.
''UP police change approach to encounters, opt to fire at legs'' states Hindustan Times adding ''The tactic appears to have been adopted to counter criticism cops face over a spate of encounter deaths in the state''.
''NHA ropes in five analytics firms to detect fraud in health scheme'' reports the Indian Express.
''21 Bangladeshis deported from Assam'' writes the Hindu adding ''they were under detention for violation of the Passport Act''.
''Army launches surgical strikes on honey traps'' leads the Mail Today.
And finally, Did an asteroid hit South India millions of years ago? Well, the Hindu reports that research by two scientists hints at asteroid strike 800 million to 550 million years ago, creating a crater.

Lok Sabha Elections 2019: "Modi Government's Expiry Date Over," Says Mamata Banerjee At Opposition Rally

Lok Sabha Elections 2019: "Modi Government's Expiry Date Over," Says Mamata Banerjee At Opposition Rally

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES
The Indian Express lead cites RBI governor Shaktikanta Das at the Vibrant Gujarat Summit, "Amid calls for rate cut, RBI Governor's caution: Growth OK, inflation a worry".
"Mega Opposition rally in Kolkata today" leads The Statesman. The Asian Age writes "Rahul extends support to Didi on Opposition rally eve".
"Lok Sabha polls likely in April, May; Election Commission to announce date in ides of March" reports The Pioneer. The paper also notes "Congress inks poll alliance with regional players in Jharkhand".
"AAP announces it will go it alone in Lok Sabha polls in three states", Delhi, Punjab and Haryana, reports The Hindustan Times. "Boost for BJP in city as AAP rules out poll pact with Congress" leads the Times of India. The paper also notes "In latest electoral rolls, number of Delhi voters down 1.2 lakh in one year" despite an increase in the city's projected population.
"Fog, Republic Day drill lead to chaos at Delhi airport" headlines The Hindustan Times, with at least 600 flights affected.
DMK first party to challenge 10 per cent quota in court: Criteria wrong" observes The Indian Express.
"Pak violations Doubled in 2018 as Bloodshed hit Decadal High" reports The Hindustan Times.
"No new Engineering Colleges from 2020, review every two years" informs The Indian Express of an unprecedented decision of the AICTE.
"No more lots, DDA to let buyers book 1,275 unsold flats online" notes The Hindustan Times.
On India clinching the ODI series with a 7-wicket win over Australia, The Hindustan Times writes "India Rule Down Under". The Statesman terms it "A perfect series finish to a historic trip Down Under".
And finally, "20 brave children may not get proud Republic Day moment" observes The  Times of India, as their hopes of being part of the Parade are likely to be dashed, with the Centre dissociating itself from the national bravery awards given out by NGO Indian Council for Child Welfare.

How Justice Sikri's Participation Casts a Shadow on Selection Panel Decision to Remove Alok Verma

How Justice Sikri's Participation Casts a Shadow on Selection Panel Decision to Remove Alok Verma

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

Justice Sikri turning down a post retirement job at the Commonwealth Secretariat Arbitral Tribunal and Congress opting to go it alone in the Lok Sabha polls in UP, are the couple of stories given prominent headline space across dailies today.
"'Pained' over linking of London assignment to CBI panel decision, Justice Sikri pulls out" reports The Indian Express, while The Pioneer writes, "Justice Sikri rejects plum post offer; Cong seeks CVC's ouster".
The Hindustan Times says, "Congress will contest all 80 seats in UP on its own", whereas The Indian Express quips, "Left out by SP-BSP, Congress to fight all 80 UP seats on its own".
The Hindustan Times, quotes the Prime Minister, on the recently-opened Kartarpur corridor as saying, "Kartarpur corridor will atone for sins of partition"
"Honey-trapped jawan held for passing info to Pak ISI" informs The Pioneer of an army jawan who got arrested in Jaisalmer for his alleged links with the ISI.
"Posts on Kashmir, deities, Tricolour: Facebook flags 'locally illegal' content" notes The Indian Express writing on the locally identified markers by Facebook for review.
"Change in winds to make Capital, Northwest India shiver this week" reports the DNA, while The Hindustan Times carries a picture of snow-covered cars parked near the Jammu-Srinagar highway captioned "Drenched in White" to explain the intensifying cold-wave conditions in North India.
The Business Standard informs "Airlines set to face cap on airport slots", Govt's move to curb monopolistic growth of airlines.
In some relief to the farming community, a Financial Express headline notes "Centre's cash transfer to cover 90% of sown area"
And finally, Linking health benefits with GDP growth, The Times of India reports of a study by The Energy and Resources Institute saying, "Health is wealth, literally. How cycling can give GDP a boost".

Supreme Court Judge Turns Down Post-Retirement Offer Amid Alok Verma Row

Supreme Court Judge Turns Down Post-Retirement Offer Amid Alok Verma Row

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

SP-BSP pact leaving Congress in cold is the story that dominates newspaper headlines this morning. "Mayawati and Akhilesh seal Lok Sabha poll pact, keep out Congress" leads The Statesman adding "BSP-SP to contest 38 seats each in UP, Rahul says respect SP-BSP stand, Cong will fight polls with full capacity."
On the concluding second day of BJP National Meet The Tribune quotes the Prime Minister as saying "'Majboor' or 'Mazboot' government, your choice".  Hindustan Times quoting the PM writes "Strong government better for people".
Hindustan Times wonders now, anti-BJP front in Assam ? The daily reports 'Foes in Talks' - Ex-NDA ally AGP, Congress open to tying up''.
Almost all the papers take note of Tulsi Gabbard announcing 2020 Presidential run to take on Trump.  "Democrat Tulsi Gabbard to launch US Presidential bid" says The Hindu.  "First Hindu in US Congress, Gabbard eyes 2020 race" states Hindustan Times.
"After IAS topper Faesal, more J&K officials eye politics switch" writes Hindustan Times.  The paper says a judge resigned citing personal reasons on Friday and several more may be planning to quit to contest polls."
"CVC to now investigate 6 charges against Alok Verma" reports DNA.
Sunday Business Standard in a front page story reports that Tejas production disrupted as IAE sits on proposals.
"Ladakh will soon be home to world's largest solar plant" leads The Times of India.
"Government plans Delhi-Meerut express bus as rapid rail project gets delayed" says The Pioneer.
And finally, Delhi ready to kill for a parking slot.  Well, Mail Today leads that one person is killed every month over parking disputes.  Cops get 250 complaint calls a day, mostly from South Delhi.

Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati To Contest 50-50 In UP, No Entry For Congress

Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati To Contest 50-50 In UP, No Entry For Congress

NEWSPAPERS, HEADLINES

The BJP's two day national convention thatbegan in Delhi yesterday gets top billing in most papers. On party presidentAmit Shah's address at the convention, the Asian Age writes "Shah saysModi invincible, calls poll 'battle of Panipat". The Tribune quotes Shahas saying "Battle of ideologies, BJP win certain, Modi isinvincible".

The Hindu leads with a storyon ousted CBI director Alok Verma which is also noticed on the front pages ofmost other papers. The paper writes "Alok Verma opts for retirement, saysnatural justice scuttled ; refuses new position". In what papers describeas a setback to CBI Special Director Rakesh Asthana, the Hindustan Times reports"Delhi High Court declines to quash FIR against Asthana".

The conviction of Dera Sacha Sauda chiefGurmeet Ram Rahim in a 2002 murder case of a journalist is prominently noticedon the front pages of most dailies. "Sacha Sauda chief, 3 dera aidesguilty of Chhatrapati's murder ; Quantum of sentence of January 17"reports the Tribune.

 On the likely announcement of a formal tie upbetween the Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samajwadi Party today for the 2019general elections, the Asian Age quotes SP chief Akhilesh Yadav assaying "SP-BSP will get math right, beat BJP". The Pioneer notes"Congress ready to go solo as SP-BSP deal today".

 Most papers take note of a report submittedby a retired Supreme Court judge to the Gujarat State government regarding somefake encounters in the state. The Indian Express observes "HS Bediprobe report finds three Gujarat encounters fake, says prosecute guiltycops".

The chargesheet filed against senior Congressleader P Chidambram's wife, Nalini Chidambaram by the CBI gets wide traction inthe press. The Times of India quotes the CBI as saying "PC's wifetook 1.4 crore rupees to 'manage' Saradha probe".

Indian Space Agency ISRO's announcement thatit's planning to send the country's first manned mission into space inDecember, 2021 is prominently covered. Taking note of the fact that the missionwill have at least one woman, the DNA writes "Nation's giant leapfor womankind"

Donald Trump assures of changes to H1-B visas, including potential citizenship

Donald Trump assures of changes to H1-B visas, including potential citizenship

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES
Alok Verma being removed by a panel, GST exemption limit being doubled for MSMEs are some of the top stories today.
"CBI chief gets marching orders," headlines The Tribune; while The Business Standard says, "Alok  Verma shunted out as CBI director".
"Big relief for small businesses under GST," reports The Hindu Business Line and The Asian Age writes, "GST exemption limit doubled to 40 lakh rupees," while The Financial Express says, "Big relief for MSMEs as GST ambit shrinks."
Army chief General Bipin Rawat's comments on same-sex relationships in the Army are widely covered in the press. The Pioneer quotes him "Gay sex can't be allowed in Army".
Most papers have also reported Sheila Dikshit's appointment as  Delhi unit chief. The Pioneer headlines, "Sheila back to steer Delhi Congress in Lok Sabha polls."
Justice Lalit recusing himself from the bench to hear the Ayodhya land title dispute case is given traction by the Press too. The Hindu headlines, "New Bench to hear Ayodhya case as Justice Lalit  opts out."
For fans of the comic character Tintin, there's news to cheer. "Tintin may be 90 but he's out on a new adventure," reports The Hindu, adding that Steven Speilberg is to produce a movie on him that'll be directed by Lord of the Rings director, Peter Jackson.
And Finally, A record in women care! The Hindu Business Line reports that over 1500 gynecologists created a Guinness world record in the 'longest line of sanitary pads at the All India Congress of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in Begaluru. Participants formed a line stretching 1078 metres using 10,105 pads that'll be donated to four city bases schools.

Parliament passes Bill to provide 10% quota for poor

Parliament passes Bill to provide 10% quota for poor

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES
The Lok Sabha Passing unanimously a landmark Bill to provide 10 % reservation in jobs and education for the general category "Poor" yesterday, is given prominence in this morning's Press. "Lok Sabha passes 10% EWS quota Bill: to face Rajya Sabha test today", is the top headlines of The Asian Age. The Pioneer adds that the HRD Ministry yesterday convened a meeting to work out modalities for implementing the 10 % reservation in higher educational institutions by increasing the number of seats available.
Another landmark though contentious Bill passed by the Lok Sabha yesterday, was the Citizenship Bill. The Asian Age reports that the Bill seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan, thereby providing succour to persecuted Hindus, Jains, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Parcis from these neighboring countries. Home Minster Rajnath Singh said "They have no place to go to, except India.
"Supreme Court reinstates Alok Verma as CBI Director, but clips his wings" is the top headline in The Hindu. The Indian Express adds that the bench, headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, made it clear that the issue of Alok Verma's divestment was 'still open' and asked him not to take any major policy decision.
Mail Today reports that the Reserve Bank of India, yesterday, set up a high level committee under Infosys founder and Aadhaar architect - Nandan Nilekani - to recommend measures for strengthening the safety and security of digital payments in the country.
And to conclude -  an excerpt from The Times of India. In a first, the skeletal remains of a young man and women have been excavated at the Harappan settlement of 'Rakhigarhi' in Harayana, about 150 kms from Delhi. There is evidence that both were buried simultaneously. An earlier and similar burial was considered by experts to be an instance of a widow's sacrifice, following her husband's death.

Lok Sabha Passes Bill Providing 10% Quota for Economically Poor Among Upper Castes

Lok Sabha Passes Bill Providing 10% Quota for Economically Poor Among Upper Castes

NEWSPAPERS hEADLINES
The Union Cabinet clearing 10% quota for the economically weaker sections of the upper castes in jobs and education gets top billing in newspapers today.
 ''Eye on polls, Government moves to provide 10% quota to economically weaker" headlines the Indian Express. The Times of India calling it 'a sudden move with major social and political implications', adds 'Bill to be moved in Lok Sabha today, may get Parliament Nod by Wednesday'. The Pioneer writes "Çentre's announcement exceeds Supreme Court cap on reservation".
 Several papers also have given opposition parties' reactions on it. ''Centre's move an election gimmick, says Congress'' writes the Hindustan Times. ''Its anti-backward, thunder SP and RJD'' reports the Times of India.
·  Quoting data from the I-T department as well as reports from the NSSO, the Times of India analyses ''Almost all Indians can now have a quota'' adding ''95% would meet income cut-off''.
  The AsomGanaParishad (AGP) quiting the BJP-led government in Assam is also widely covered on the front pages. ''Row erupts as citizenship bill gets nod, BJP loses ally AGP'' reports the Hindustan Times.
  As Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has come on the CBI radar for his alleged role in a mining scam, the Indian Express writes ''Flagging 'SP-BSP alliance', Mayawati backs Akhilesh in mining probe''.
  Several papers have front-paged winning moments' photographs of India's series win over Australia in Sydney. ''Wizards of Oz: Captain Kohli and his men break 71-year jinx'' writes the Times of India.
  And finally, ''a green afterlife that is good for the planet'' reports the Times of India. The paper says - the state of Washington in the US is poised to make history by legalising human composting in which one's dead remains are broken into soil.

Govt approves 10% quota for upper castes: Forget the politics of it, income-based reservation is the way ahead

Govt approves 10% quota for upper castes: Forget the politics of it, income-based reservation is the way ahead

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES
Defence Minister taking on Congress Chief over order for HAL accusing each other of lying and misleading the nation is the lead story in almost all the dailies today. The Hindu writes Nirmala lied on HAL orders: Rahul - Read full media report, says Minister. 'Raga misleading country over HAL' - accused of lying, Sitharaman hits out at Congress chief, writes DNA.
The news of Citizenship Bill being tabled in Lok Sabha today has also been covered by most newspapers in their front pages. The Tribune reports ''Dissent notes by four opposition parties: can't link with religion''. The Pioneer headlines ''Shiv Sena joins opposition ranks on citizenship Bill'', after backing the Congress demand for a JPC  into the Rafale fighter jet deal.
''GST panel nod to Kerala levying 1 per cent 'Calamity Cess','' reports the Financial Express, to fund rehabilitation work in the state hit by floods.
''Ministers propose to shield small units from GST burden'' allowing states to impose calamity cess, is a headline in the Times of India.
''Registration of vehicles may be capped in Delhi'' headlines the Hindustan Times, that could make it harder to own a new vehicle in the city and may also limit cars' entry, aiming to fight traffic congestion and air pollution.
The Times of India quoting the Law Minister writes, ''Aadhaar may be linked with driving license'', to tackle the problem of duplicate and fraudulent documents.
''China passes law to make Islam compatible with socialism'' is a report in The Statesman.
In a front page story the Asian Age reports, ''Brexit-hit United Kingdom Universities eye India, China student'', who pay much higher fees than locals.
And finally, DNA writes, ''Railways may seal stations 20 minutes prior to hold airport-like screening'' as the security plan has already been put in motion at Prayagraj in anticipation of the Kumbh Mela from January 15.

'Prove or Quit': Rahul Dares Sitharaman to Prove Rs 1 Lakh Cr Orders Given to HAL, Minister Tells Him to 'Start From ABCs'

'Prove or Quit': Rahul Dares Sitharaman to Prove Rs 1 Lakh Cr Orders Given to HAL, Minister Tells Him to 'Start From ABCs'

AN OVERVIEW OF TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:-

Today's papers highlight former liquor baron Vijay Mallya, accused of defaulting on loans of over Rs. 9,000 crore, receiving yet another blow from a Mumbai Court. DNA, in its top headline writes ''Mallya's new first: Tagged as Fugitive Economic Offender''. This order empowers agencies to seize his properties and assets world over.

''Sabrimala violence continues over women's temple entry'' headlines The Statesman - with homes and shops of rivals BJP and CPI (M) leaders being attacked and vandalized over the entry of women below 50 into the Ayyapa temple sanctum. The Sunday Times quoting Police sources writes ''10 women, including 3 Malaysian have, so far, visited Sabarimala''.

The other big story highlighted by newspapers is of Mayawati's Bahujan Samaj Party and Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party joining hands for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. ''The Asian Age headline reads'' SP, BSP agree to Lok Sabha tie up in Uttar Pradesh, Congress likely to go alone''. Speculation is rife that they may both fight on 37 seats each.

''CBI to examine Akhilesh mining case; SP cries Vendetta'', headlines The Indian Express. The CBI will examine the alleged roles of Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav and his former colleague Gayatri Prajapati in a case of illegal mining.

Papers like DNA, Hindustan Times, Pioneer and Indian Express carry beautiful pictures of a snow blanket across the Kashmir Valley, that has had from upto 10 to 24 inches of snow yesterday.

Times of India advises us to supercharge our body defenses as the mercury drops, by eating antioxidant packed mixed berries with a large bowl of warming porridge and a spoonful of honey - as eating big and early boosts anti viral properties, whereas going hungry actually causes a 17 per cent decrease.

Rahul Gandhi Woos 'Army of the Unemployed' for Lok Sabha Battle as Jobs Top Voter Worries

Rahul Gandhi Woos 'Army of the Unemployed' for Lok Sabha Battle as Jobs Top Voter Worries

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

Raging parliamentary debate over Rafale deal and the Supreme court delaying verdict on the Ayodhya case are the stories that get prominent mention this morning.
"Rafale will bring Modi back as PM: says, Nirmala" writes the Hindustan Times adding, in the subtext, Rahul Gandhi's response as, "Congress will investigate the deal when it comes to power" The Tribune quotes Nirmala Sitharaman as saying, "Bofors sank you, Rafale will bring PM Modi back".
"'Appropriate Bench' will hear Ayodhya appeals" says The Hindu further quoting the Chief Justice of India as saying, "It will pass further orders on January 10th".
"Lokpal search panel formed, govt. tells Supereme Court" writes The Hindu about govt's response to the Supreme court over lokpal issue.
The Indian Express carries a picture of the award-winning journalists with the headline, "The Stronger journalism becomes, the brighter a democracy shines: says, Rajnath Singh" adding '29  journalists honoured for work in print, broadcast and digital'.
On the Sabrimala fiasco The India Express writes, "Now, a woman from Sri Lanka makes it to Sabrimala Temple"
The Hindustan Times in another headline writes, "Data protection bill could get Cabinet nod next week" informing about the bill's likely consideration next week.
Quoting PM's response to National Register of Citizen, NRC question The DNA writes, "No Indian will be left out of NRC: say, Modi"
And finally, Do you have a clutter problem? as "A cluttered home might be the reason why you're stressed" reports The Times of India of a study done at the D'Paul university in Chicago by professor Joseph Ferrari.

Chandrababu Naidu's Risky Plan To Target PM Modi Inspired By KCR

Chandrababu Naidu's Risky Plan To Target PM Modi Inspired By KCR

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES
Several newspapers today highlighted protests and widespread violence over the entry of two women into the Lord Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala. The Pioneer headlines ''Sabarimala rage engulfs Kerala''. The Hindustan Times writes ''Kerala Burns: 1 dead, 250 injured as right-wing hardliners enforce strike;  CM says 'real'devotees are not against women".
Reporting on the proceedings in Parliament, the DNA leads with ''Winter is a washout as Houses do little business''. 'Three of forty five bills passed in winter session so far; 3 more days to go'.
On the Rafale fighter jet deal controversy, the Hindustan Times reports ''Modi 'fled' Rafale debate says Rahul, scam only in opposition mind says Sushma''.
''BJP allies against talaq bill, temple ordinance'' headlines the Pioneer. ''JDU opposes Triple Talaq Bill, Paswan to protest ordinance on Ram Mandir'' adds the paper.
The Statesman leads with ''PM Modi coins slogan 'Jai Anusandhan', calls for strong research ecosystem in universities and colleges at the 106th Indian Science Congress in Jalandhar.
Several papers prominently noticed India rejecting US President Donald Trump's jibe on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for having built what he incorrectly claimed was a 'library'. The Time of India writes "India rebuts Trump jibe on Afghanistan, says no sending troops. The daily adds "US Prez mocked PM Modi for building library."
The Financial Express in a front page story on capital adequacy norms writes; RBI is ' unrealistic',  says Moily panel. The daily also writes 'contrary to his party's public posturing the panel headed by the congress leader on the same page with government'.
It is that time of the year when the number of prisoners in Tihar Jail always increases says the Hindustan Times. This is because 3 winter months spent behind bars are better than braving the winter chill. ''Seeking Tihar's Warmth, many turn to petty crime in bitter cold'', headlines the daily.
And finally, the Asian Age reports - in a historic first and in a push to become space superpower ''China spacecraft lands on dark side of moon'', sending close-up images of the previously unexplored region.

"PM Modi Hides In His Room, Lacks Guts": Rahul Gandhi's Rafale Offensive

"PM Modi Hides In His Room, Lacks Guts": Rahul Gandhi's Rafale Offensive

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES
Prime Minister Narendra Modi giving his first interview of 2019 to a news agency is the lead story of almost all newspapers today.
The Hindustan Times writes "Ram Mandir move only after court order says Modi". The Asian Age quotes the PM as saying 'wrong to think Pakistan might mend ways'; 'in a swipe at Gandhi's, PM says nation's 'first family' is 'out on bail'; hits Congress farm stunts'.
The DNA, in an exclusive story, highlights "BJP thinks global, Congress takes micro route for 2019". The paper says that while BJP is activating its volunteers in 25 countries for campaigning, Congress to take inputs on the selection of candidates across the country through its data analytics team's digital platform Shakti.
"Election Commission asks voters to walk last mile as poll deadline nears" headlines the Hindustan Times. The paper says that voters are being encouraged to verify their details as duplicate entries and missing names became a flash point between the poll body and some political parties in the last round of elections.
The Tribune highlights that market fees and GST worth over 200 crore rupees on cotton is being evaded in Haryana every year after non-existent firms. "50 per cent of cotton procured without bill" headlines the daily.
"8 lakh pay tributes at Bhima Koregaon" on the two hundred first anniversary of the battle writes the DNA. The Hindustan Times writes "A year after violence, Bhima Koregaon turns into a sea of blue" referring to the waving of blue flags and raising slogans of "Jai Bhim" for Dr. B R Ambedkar at memorial in Pune.
Several newspapers have paid their tributes to late actor Kader Khan who passed away in Canada yesterday. "Hum jahan khade hote hain, line wahin se shuru hoti hai" -- Engineer, writer, actor, dialogue writer -- Kader Khan was all these and more, writes the Tribune.
And finally, the Indian Express and the Times of India have front-paged photographs of "The Women Wall" formed by over 35 lakh women, spread across 620 kms, from 4 to 4:15 pm in Kerala. This human chain was part of a state-backed initiative to uphold gender equality.

Triple talaq is a matter of gender equality, Sabarimala temple issue is related to tradition: Narendra Modi

Triple talaq is a matter of gender equality, Sabarimala temple issue is related to tradition: Narendra Modi

NEWSPAPER Headlines
The Opposition thwarting triple talaq bill in the Rajya Sabha is one of the stories that finds prominent mention in the front pages of most of the dailies this morning. "Triple talaq bill hits Rajya Sabha wall as Opposition digs heels" leads Hindustan Times.
Former Congress leader Sajjan Kumar surrendering before the Karkardooma Court is the other story that is tracked by the media. "Sajjan surrenders, sent to Mandoli jail" writes the Tribune adding "Plea for Tihar jail rejected, Sikh inmates to be kept away".
On Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sweeping to a landslide victory in the general election, the Asian Age writes "Bangladesh PM wins 3rd straight term, rejects rigging claims, says conscience is clear". "PM Modi calls Hasina after her landslide win in Bangladesh" reports Hindustan Times.
Referring to the Agusta Westland bribery case the Statesman leads "Antony 'shields' Gandhis, BJP hits back".
With an eye on the general elections that are fast approaching the Asian Age states "PM mulls cash handouts, other options for farmers".
"Supreme Court's New Year gift for poor convicts" informs DNA. The paper says that in 2019 poor and marginalised litigants approaching the Supreme Court can expect quality legal aid to fight their cases.
Writing that Gujarat government has asked all schools to ensure that students respond in a new way from 1st January , the Indian Express writes "Gujarat changes roll call: Jai Hind, Jai Bharat to replace Yes sir, Present".

"Will Reconsider Support": Mayawati Spells Out A Condition For Congress

"Will Reconsider Support": Mayawati Spells Out A Condition For Congress

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

Covering the Prime Minister's Andaman and Nicobar visit, almost all the dailies have reported about the announcement of renaming three islands of the archipelago, as a tribute to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.
"Triple Talaq Bill likely to face stiff resistance in Rajya Sabha" reports The Hindu.
On Bangladesh general election, all the dailies have given a positive note to the coming back of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. " 17 die as Bangla votes, Hasina landslide likely" - writes The Asian Age.
On the fraudsters looting crores of rupees from the Banking system, The Indian Express quotes the RBI, "Banks lost 41,167 crore rupees to fraud in 2017-18."
"Climate change threatens kisan" states The Pioneer on the climate change and global warning set to affect production of several crops in 2020.
The passing away of filmmaker Mrinal Sen at the age of 95 makes headlines on the front page of most of the newspapers. "Last of Ray, Ghatak, Sen triumvirate leaves life's stage", reports The Hindustan Times.
The Times of India on its front page, covers the story of pendency of judicial cases in district and subordinate courts stating, "140 cases pending in lower courts for more than 60 years".
On the Pakistan army eyeing purchase of some 360 Russian made tanks. The Tribune states, "Pak wants T-90 tanks, Moscow holds the key, Delhi hopes Russia refuses".
Two premier management insititutes, IIM - Bangalore and Ahmedabad have proposed to add 800 more seats between them in the coming year, reports The Times of India.
And finally, ensuring women's safety and responsible partying by New Year revellers, The Hindustan Times reports, "15 thousand cops on Delhi streets to ensure safe New Years Eve" with the connaught place to be pedestrianised, allowing no vehicular movement.