Narasimha Rao Was Very Different From PM Modi, Says Shashi Tharoor

 Narasimha Rao Was Very Different From PM Modi, Says Shashi Tharoor

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

The removal of more restrictions in the unlock 4.0 guidlines dominates the headlines of most newsdailies today. "Metro from September 7; functions with cap of 100 from september 21, " reports the Times of India. The Hindustan Times adds " class 9 - 12 kids can visit school for guidance; no state lockdowns without centre nod."

Many newspapers have also reported on the GST compensation, for states. The Indian Express reports "Centre gives states 2 options: easier terms for lower borrowing." The Hindu reports "Centre must borrow and pay states' GST dues: Kerala."

The Hindustan Times reports on its front page "Jaishankar says strain on LAC peace to impact ties." The Times of India adds "India pulls out of military drill with Chinese and Pak troops."

And finally, The Times of India reports "Chip in pig's brain save memories" adding that Tech billionare Elon Musk has revealed his human brain-machine interface in greater detail, this time in pigs that had prototypes of chips implanted in their heads and their brain activity tracked in real time.

Unlock 4: Metro services may resume; schools, colleges, cinema halls to remain shut

 Unlock 4: Metro services may resume; schools, colleges, cinema halls to remain shut

Newspapers Headlines

The Supreme Court saying that Colleges and Universities can not award degrees to students without conducting final year exams is one of the lead stories in most of the news papers this morning. "SC upholds UGC order, backs final-year exams" leads Hindustan Times. The paper adds that "Ministers of six non-BJP states move court against NEET, JEE".

The Tribune quotes the Prime Minister Narendra Modi as saying "Jan Dhan scheme game changer".

"PMO explores common voter list for Lok Sabha, state and local bodies polls" informs The Indian Express.

The Pioneer writes that "Rajnath, Jaishankar to talk LAC row with China at SCO meet".

"Japan's PM Abe to quit over ill-health" reports The Asian Age.

"Good rainfall helps farm sector post record kharif crop acreage" leads The Times of India.

The government has permitted airlines to serve pre-packed snacks, meals and beverages on domestic flights and hot meals on international flights reports The Statesman.

NEET, JEE 2020 debate: Centre risking lives of students by holding Sept exams, says Mamata

 NEET, JEE 2020 debate: Centre risking lives of students by holding Sept exams, says Mamata

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

Most newspapers today, lead with the GST Council meet held yesterday, where the Central Government gave states two options to make up for the shortfall in GST revenue. The Hindustan Times headline reads "States may borrow to meet revenue shortfall."

The newspapers have also prominently covered story on the LAC stand-off. The Tribune states "MEA indirectly rules out military option."India wants both armies to return to regular LAC posts.

Quoting the RBI Governor on the covid war the Financial Express states, "Governor reiterates importance of winding down regulatory forbearance in a timely fashion."

The country gearing up to hold the first national level entrance examination since the Covid outbreak, "JEE exam prep: 10 Lakh masks and gloves, 6,600 liters of sanitiser." states the Indian Express.

With all set to reduce the travel distance between Manali and Leh by 46 km, the Rohtang Tunnel is being given the finishing touches, informs the Indian Express.

And finally, some efforts towards making Delhi's air more breathable... The Pioneer reports 25 percent of Delhi to have green cover by 2023, plan on anvil.

Covid "Act Of God", We May See Economy Contract: Nirmala Sitharaman

 Covid "Act Of God", We May See Economy Contract: Nirmala Sitharaman

Newspaper Headlines

Reporting on India's Covid-19 tally crossing the 32 lakh mark, the Statesman writes "India, third behind the USA and Brazil in terms of total caseload."

The Hindustan Times reports "Delhi to double tests as Covid spike continues". The Tribune quotes Punjab CM as saying "Covid to peak by mid-September in Punjab".

"Bengal lockdown till 20th September; full shutdown on three days" (on 7th & 11th and 12th) reports the Statesman.

Under the caption 'GST Council Meets today' the Indian Express writes "Squeezed by Covid, salaries on hold: states' SOS to Centre".

The Hindu's top headline reads "At opposition meting, CMs plan to move Supreme Court on JEE, NEET". The Tribune reports "Sonia leads 7 CMs to take on government over GST dues, exam row".

On the CBI probe in Sushant Singh Rajput's death case, the Pioneer writes "NCB joins SSR probe as Rhea drug 'act' emerges".

The Times of India writes "Masks for Covid may end up eliminating TB by 2025 target" ; 'better cough etiqutte also a Covid impact.'

Telangana Health Minister confirms two coronavirus reinfections in the state

 Telangana Health Minister confirms two coronavirus reinfections in the state

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

The rural jobs guarantee scheme is aiding the rural people in this time of grave crisis. Financial Express writes that the income of those who took up work under MGNREGA has nearly doubled.

In the Bhushan contempt case, a headline in Hindustan Times reads, "No harm in apology; SC reserves verdict".

"CBI looking for missing link in Sushant's death; 2 cops, Rajput's C.A questioned", reports the Pioneer.

On the Maharashtra building collapse, The Asian Age writes that as the toll rose to 12, a 4-year old boy was rescued after 19 hours under the debris.

"Nikki versus Kamala for US President in 2024?"- Under that headline, The Times of India reports Trump has wheeled out Haley to counter Harris.

And finally, Financial Express reports that a device having the ability to neutralise 99.9% of the coronavirus that might be floating in the air in closed spaces has been launched.

Parents, Students Wanted It: Education Minister On NEET, JEE Amid Covid

 Parents, Students Wanted It: Education Minister On NEET, JEE Amid Covid

Newspaper Headlines

All the dailies have reported  the re-openning of metro services in the capital in a phased manner with strict social distancing norms inside coaches and at all stations, after being suspended for  over 5 months due to COVID. The Pioneer notes, "Metro resumption likely in unlock 4 from september 1", but schools may not be re-opened so soon.

As the Hong-Kong scientists find first 'repeat' COVID case, a front page headline in Hindustan Times writes on COVID danger , "Effects may linger long after recovery ."

Another headline in the Pioneer observes, "US adopts Delhi model of plasma therapy for COVID treatment."

"Congress Chief election in 6 months, Sonia to retain charge till then "observes The Asian Age.

"Guwahati gets India's longest river ropeway " writes The Hindu.

"DRDO lists 108 systems to boost 'Atma-nirbhar' Bharat mission , strengthening the indegenous defence systems, is a headline in The Statesman .

 The Indian Express reports, "Migrants back, women's share in National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme  dips to 8 yr low."

Under the headline "Drain Brain", the Times of India writes "how bio-parks are taking care of water logging" acting as mini reservoirs.

15 Injured, Around 70 Feared Trapped After Maharashtra Building Collapse

 15 Injured, Around 70 Feared Trapped After Maharashtra Building Collapse

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

The top headline in The Indian Express reads, "Facing dissent within, Sonia offers to quit, sets off chorus of support for herself, Rahul".  "Congress a divided house ahead of CWC meeting", writes The Statesman.

The Pioneer quotes BJP Chief, J P Nadda as saying that Nitish Kumar will lead BJP, JD(U), LJP in Bihar polls.

"For the first time, farm sector set to grow even as GDP sees a contraction, reports The Indian Express.

Government issues SOPs: Film, TV shooting can restart, writes The Asian Age.  Hindustan Times points out that these are possible with riders.

Quoting the Union Health Ministry, The Tribune reports, India's Covid recovery rate has improved to 75% while the case fatality rate has reduced to 1.86%.  The Hindu carries a statement by Union Health Minister, Harsh Vardhan, that India's Covid-19 vaccine will be available by year-end.

Hindustan Times quotes India's Chief of Defense Staff as saying on China, "Military option on table if talks fail"

And Finally, The Times of India carries a story titled, "Fresh lungs:  Four more forests for Delhi".

Real scale of COVID infections in India much higher, say experts as tally crosses 3M

 Real scale of COVID infections in India much higher, say experts as tally crosses 3M

Newspapers Headlines

India tests a million samples in one day, reports Hindustan Times. The Home Ministry has directed states not to curb transport of goods and people, writes the Sunday Times.

The Sunday Statesman leads with the headline, "Pak admits Dawood Ibrahim in Karachi, imposes sanctions".  Wary of FATF ban, Pak admits Dawood resides in Karachi, reports Sunday Pioneer.  First time, Dawood on a Pak list, but denial option open, headlines The Sunday Express.

The news of BSF killing 5 Pak intruders on Punjab border, is carried on the front pages of most dailies. "5 Pak intruders shot along IB in Tarn Taran" is The Sunday Tribune Headline.

"ISIS terrorist with IEDs held in Delhi, major terror strike averted" reports Sunday Pioneer.

"First pushback: 23 senior Congres leaders stand up, write to Sonia Gandhi calling for sweeping changes, from top to bottom" is the lead headline in The Sunday Express.

CBI tries to recreate Sushant Singh Rajput crime sequence, writes Sunday Pioneer.

Hindustan Times carries a report of a 50 kg 0varian tumour removed from a woman's body at a Delhi hospital.  The woman has recovered and is set to go home soon

India Crosses 3 Million Coronavirus Cases

 India Crosses 3 Million Coronavirus Cases

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

A headline in The Hindu reads, "Stopping religious activities alone is strange, says top court". "SC allows devotees to offer Paryushan prayers in 3 Jain temples in Mumbai", reports the Pioneer.

"Strict curb on rallies in EC's new guidelines for elections", writes the Asian Age.

The Coronavirus pandemic may have driven as many as 100 million people across the world back into extreme poverty, World Bank warns, says Hindustan Times.

The Indian Express reports, "Covid effect: 61% students defer plan to study abroad, says study".

"Haryana government to set up 'bag-free'model schools", writes the Times of India".

As with Pak, select China entities face extra visa scam; Tie-ups of Indian universities, institutions are also under review", reports the Indian Express.

And finally, with a total figure of 2063, Pakistani nationals are on top of the list of foreigners acquiring Indian citizenship during the past nearly four years, says the Statesman.

Fire breaks out in powerhouse of Srisailam hydroelectric plant in Telangana, 9 feared trapped; thick smoke hampers rescue effort

Fire breaks out in powerhouse of Srisailam hydroelectric plant in Telangana, 9 feared trapped; thick smoke hampers rescue effort

Newspaper Headlines

The Asian Age quotes the MEA as saying, India, China agree to resolve issues expeditiously.  However, Hindustan Times reports that differences persist in latest round of India-China talks.

The Hindu leads with the Supreme Court's order on the Prashant Bhusan case. "SC gives Bhushan time to reconsider statement" reads the headline. "SC urges rethink.  Bhushan stands firm: no apology, my duty to future" headlines The Indian Express. Don't punish Bhushan in contempt case, says AG is the Hindustan Times' headline.

"3 in 10 Delhi residents have antibodies: New sero result", is the headline of the lead story in Hindustan Times.  28.3% Delhiites Covid-hit, up 5% from July, writes The Tribune.

Eateries, hotels in Delhi may serve liquor soon, reports The Pioneer.

MCD areas in Capital among India's dirtiest writes Hindustan Times.  The Pioneer reports that Indore is India's cleanest city 4th time in a row.

Kamala Harris makes history. Is 1st woman of colour to be VP nominee, writes The Asian Age. 

The Indian Express carries a story about Joy Sebastian who comes from a village in Kerala, who's won government's challenge to take on Zoom, and 1 crore rupees.

Facebook Reps Asked To Meet Shashi Tharoor-Led MPs' Panel On September 2

 Facebook Reps Asked To Meet Shashi Tharoor-Led MPs' Panel On September 2

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

"Common eligibility exam for government jobs, PSBs getsapproval", says Hindustan Times.

28% Delhi has Corona, most asymptomatic, as per a Sero survey, says the Pioneer. "Delhi hotels and weekly markets to reopen, gyms to stay closed", reports the Times of India.

The Tribune writes that the fear of contracting Covid-19 has seen a spurt in the demand for short-term Covid-specific health covers.

"Top court allows CBI probe in Sushant Singh Rajput's death", reports Hindustan Times. "Sushant case: SC okays CBI probe, for credible, complete justice", says the Indian Express.

And finally, The Times of India reports that Internet Explorer, once the world's most popular browser with a peak market share of 95% in 2003, will soon become history with Microsoft pulling the plug.

6 lakh from Hyderabad may have been infected with COVID-19: study

 6 lakh from Hyderabad may have been infected with COVID-19: study

Newspaper Headlines

The top story in The Indian Express summarises the Supreme Court ruling, "SC clears PM CARES: No transfer to disaster fund. Trust so no CAG audit" reads the headline.

The Asian Age in its headline quotes Shivraj Singh Chouhan's announcement "100% quota: MP government jobs only for locals". Courts have earlier struck down job quota based on place of birth, writes The Indian Express.

Referring to Bihar polls, Hindustan Times healine reads, "Curbs at rallies, booths likely in first Covid poll".

Government to take up privatisation of more airports, reports  Business Standard.

The Statesman quotes Hardeep Singh Puri as saying that India is negotiating with 13 countries to establish bilateral air bubble arrangements.

A resolution in the US Congress has described Sikhs and Hindus in Afghanistan as 'endangered minorities' reports The Statesman.

The Times of India writes, "One in four Indians may have Covid antibodies, show tests".

SC judgment on PM-CARES fund is 'body blow to transparency and accountability', says Congress

 SC judgment on PM-CARES fund is 'body blow to transparency and accountability', says Congress

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

A front page headline in Hindustan Times writes, Government kick-starts talks to explore vaccine deal" as the top panel asks pharmaceutical firms for pricing and production estimates.

On the contempt of court proceeding, The Times of India observes "Supreme court to study if procedure needed for complaints against judges ."

"Made-In-India i phone 12 set to roll out next year "reports Business Standard.

Rejecting the plea seeking postponement amid COVID 19 ,"Supreme Court paves way for JEE, NEET in September" writes The Tribune.

"COVID -hit economy may have shrunk 14-26 per cent in quarter 1 "reports The Economic Times.The paper also adds that signs of pick -up in August are also noted.

A headline in the Financial Express notes, "Hiring picks up pace as India goes back to work ."

To secure the country's financial sector from cyber attacks , Hindustan Times cites setting up a system by the government under the headline, "New mechanism to tackle banking hacks in the works."

Hold Facebook accountable

 Hold Facebook accountable

Newspaper Headlines

With efforts towards Covid-19 vaccines building up, the Hindustan Times informs "India eyes global front runners in vaccine plan". "Key meet today. Expert committee will hold discussions with Indian pharma companies".

Covid-19 pandemic teaching new ways of business. The Pioneer informs of hectic preparations to conduct the Monsoon session of Parliament in line with Standard Operating Procedures (SoP). "In a first, MPs to sit in chambers, galleries for session from mid-September."

With teaching coding to kids online being the new trend, the Business Standard informs, "Coding edtech start-up growing at 150 percent, has 3 million registered users." "Staying the global course: White Hat Jr. looks overseas."

With an eye on harnessing youth power, training manpower for disaster management and the youth getting skill training for making a career in the armed forces.... the Tribune states "NCC expansion in coastal, border areas."

With online shopping being the new buzz word, "Amazon, Flipkart expect big jump in festive sales". The Economic Times writes, sales may double in some segments as consumers prefer to shop online."

Facebook controversy gains political heat, to come under parliamentary panel's scrutiny

Facebook controversy gains political heat, to come under parliamentary panel's scrutiny

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:

The Prime Minister's speech from the Red Fort, to mark India's 74th Independence Day is widely quoted as the top story in most dailies. "PM announces health ID for every Indian: Covid-19 our biggest self-reliance lesson" reads the headline in The Sunday Express.  "LAC to LoC, soldiers gave befitting reply" writes The Asian Age. Villages to be linked with optical fibre in the next 1,000 days, announces the PM, writes Sunday Pioneer.

Oli calls up Modi on Independence Day, Nepal says talks to continue, reports The Sunday Express.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni's announcement of his retirement too makes front page news in most dailies. India's jewel says goodbye, writes Hindustan Times. "Consider me retired, says Dhoni" is The Hindu headline.

MS Dhoni announces retirement from international cricket

 MS Dhoni announces retirement from international cricket

Newspapers Headlines

The Asian Age reports that in his address to the nation on the eve of the 74th Independence Day, President Ram Nath Kovind appreciated the super-human efforts in containing the magnitude of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Business Standard writes that Covid 19 has accelerated digital payment adoption by 5-10 years.

Ayushman Bharat expanded to cover mising middle", writes the Times of India, adding the Centre plans to expand the Ayushman Bharat insurance framework to include 45 crore non-poor population.

"SC holds Prashant Bhushan guilty of contempt of court", says the Pioneer.

"Deposits in Jan Dhan accounts exceed pre-lockdown level", reports Financial Express.

Under the headline, "India-China military talks hit a roadblock", the Hindustan Times says that despite five commander-level meets, stalemate on return to pre-April positions.

Under "Former errand boy's free app 'Dukaan' rescues retailers", the Statesman says a small-town engineer and former errand boy Sumit Shah's freely available app Dukaan has helped over 1.5 lakh stores go online during this prolonged Covid-19 turmoil.

"Every Tactic Failed": Ashok Gehlot Attacks BJP After Trust Vote Win

 "Every Tactic Failed": Ashok Gehlot Attacks BJP After Trust Vote Win

Newspaper Headlines

Quoting a study, The Pioneer writes, "Plasma therapy safe, cuts mortality.  News of Ram Temple Trust Head testing Covid positive finds mention on the front pages of most dailies.

Hindu BusinessLine headline quotes the Prime Minister as saying, "Tax system will be made seamless, painless, faceless".  "The day government applauds honest taxpayer, it plans new list of transactions under scanner" writes The Indian Express.

"Rajasthan trust vote today as Pilot, Gehlot seal truce" headlines The Asian Age.  "Gehlot, Pilot meet; BJP, Congress talk floor test" writes Hindustan Times.

The Pioneer, carrying a photograph of an inundated road writes, "Heaviest rain of season in Delhi". The Times of India carries a photograph of a submerged Delhi Police van, with the caption, "When helpers need help".

Hindustan Times quotes US Democratic party's Presidential canditate's running mate, Kamala Harris as saying, "Indian mother taught me to fight for change".

Karnataka govt indicates Bengaluru violence was pre-planned

 Karnataka govt indicates Bengaluru violence was pre-planned

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

A significant judgement of the Supreme Court expanding rights for daughters in Hindu Undivided Family Property finds top coverage in most newspapers. "Daughters have equal right to father's property as sons, rules SC" highlights the Asian Age.

Reporting on the country's battle against Covid-19, the Tribune reports "PM asks 10 worst-hit states to buck up, push for more testing".

The Hindu reports "Covid deaths drop to single digit in Delhi".

Russia becoming the first country to approve a Corona virus vaccine also gets wide coverage. The Times of India writes " Named sputnik five, Putin unveils 1st vaccine, experts wary" with some warning that moving too quickly on a vaccine could be dangerous.

The Hindustan Times reports "4G to return in J&K after August 15 on trial basis - Centre tells SC". Relaxations in one district each of Jammu, Kashmir at a time, adds the paper.

"People's poet Rahat Indori passes away" writes the Hindu as the eminent Urdu poet succumbed to Covid-19 related complications yesterday.

And finally, the Indian Express writes "To reward honest taxpayers, PM plans new 'transparent' scheme". According to the daily's sources, the program could be announced to the public on August 15th.

Joe Biden picks Kamala Harris as his running mate in historic first for a woman of color

 Joe Biden picks Kamala Harris as his running mate in historic first for a woman of color

Newspaper Headlines

The top headline in Hindustan Times writes on the India data on COVID19, "62 percent cases but only 13 percent fatalities among those below 45 years." 

The Economic Times cites "Increased demand for groceries lifts household consumption to 2 yr high."

"Pranab tests positive, flooded with 'get well soon', reports The Pioneer adding  the Ex-President was admitted for brain surgery.

"Ahead of induction, Rafale busy with practice sorties " informs The Times of India.

The Statesman writes about an 'IIT Mandi scientist making a vital Covid breakthrough' that will help in finding a cure for the Corona virus disease.

Reporting about the bureaucrat- turned- politician Shah Faesal The Indian Express writes, "In custody for year,Shah Faesal quits politics."

The Hindu notes the increase in demand of the postal department's new service of delivering money home ,with the postman acting as a human ATM , turning out to be a big hit countrywide under the headline ,"When the postman rings with cash. "

Cong Forms Panel with Priyanka Gandhi, KC Venugopal & Ahmed Patel to Address Pilot's Complaints

 Cong Forms Panel with Priyanka Gandhi, KC Venugopal & Ahmed Patel to Address Pilot's Complaints

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

101 defence items, weapons on import ban 'negative list' reads the headline in The Asian Age. The Pioneer refers to it as "Desi Push".

"To check post-harvest wastage, PM launches Rs. 1-lakh crore infra fund" is The Indian Express headline.  The plan is to boost farm sector's infra, writes The Asian Age.

The headline in the Financial Express lead story reads, "Job guarantee for urban poor on cards".  The paper refers to it as stimulus 2.0.

The top story in The Tribune refers to India's suggestion to Pakistan for virtual Indus talks. Pak insists on Wagah meet, writes the paper.

Following the explosion in Lebanon, 740 tonnes of ammonium ntriate in Chennai is to be sent to Hyderabad in a phased manner, reports The Statesman.

The Asian Age reports that the PMO has set September deadline for final Naga pact. 

India Covid-19 tally zooms past 21 lakh with record single-day spike of 64,399 cases

 India Covid-19 tally zooms past 21 lakh with record single-day spike of 64,399 cases

Newspapers Headlines

The tragic crash of the Air India Express Jet at Calicut airport, dominates the front pages of newspapers today. "What caused the crash? Black box retrieved, probe begins" reports the Times of India. The Indian Express informs "Air India Express flight touch down beyond the safe zone, death toll rises to 18".

The Hindustan Times headlines "Twin tragedy for Kerala: 27 die in landslide, more feared".

On the border parley between India and China, the Hindu reports "India, China Major Generals discuss situation at Depsang". The Pioneer notes "Parleys to defuse LAC crisis yield no results again".

On the Corona virus situation the Hindustan Times reports "13 districts account for 1 in seven Covid deaths". The Hindu adds "IMA flags death of 196 doctors to PM - in letter, it cites Covid-19 casualities".

The Sunday Tribune reports that the centre has ed state governments as well as the seed industry and research bodies to be vigililant about '"unsolicited seed parcels" from unknown sources entering India as these can be a threat to the country's bio-diversity.

Air India Express Plane Landed 1 Km Beyond Runway Threshold At High Speed

 Air India Express Plane Landed 1 Km Beyond Runway Threshold At High Speed

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

The top headline in all the dailies cover the tragic news of the plane crash overshooting the run-way while landing at Kozhikode airport.  The Times of India writes "Air India plane falls into valley, Both pilots dead."

"Vaccine hunt in late stage, 2 top panels coordinating and monitoring efforts " reports The Indian Express.

"Amid buildup, next India China meet on LAC hotspot Depsang" is a lead in The Tribune.

Soon after swearing in, the second Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and kashmir  sends out a message 'for a need to start Kashmir dialogue for peace and stability', notes the Hindustan Times.

"BCCI dials India Inc for IPL title sponsorship "is a headline in The Economic Times.

Citing the Italian marine  case accused of killing 2 fishermen in 2012 , The Hindu quotes the Supreme Court saying, "Will close marines' case only after "hefty' compensation."

And finally, Tired of Zoom calls ? A Los Angeles firm has created phone booth sized machines to beam live holograms into your living room , looking for a new way to communicate during the pandemic ....is a story in  The Financial Express.

17 Dead Including Both Pilots After Plane Breaks In Two In Kerala

 17 Dead Including Both Pilots After Plane Breaks In Two In Kerala

Newspaper Headlines

"Reserve Bank hits pause button on interest rate cut" writes the Statesman. "RBI allows one-time recast of retail loans to soften Covid blow" headlines the Hindustan Times. The Business Standard terms it "Breather for borrowers".

"India warns China to halt meddling in Jammu and Kashmir "reports The Asian Age. "Another bid to raise Kashmir-issue at UN; Pak, China get no support" is the lead in The Tribune.

 The Hindu Business Line observes "Post Beirut blast, 700 tonnes of ammonium nitrate stored near Chennai set the alarm bells ringing".

"New Rules Expand Ambit of Aadhaar Use" beyond welfare schemes. The Economic Times notes, the 12-digit unique ID can now be 'voluntarily' linked to several government services, including the upcoming health identity card-for-all project.

'Mr. Blue Sky', the Hindustan Times captions a photograph of clear blue skies in Delhi on Thursday, as easterly winds, monsoon showers and low emissions brought down air pollution to just 69 AQI, the lowest for the second time since April 2nd.

Ayodhya Ram Temple Ceremony: BJP Hails It as 'Historic'; Opposition Hopes for Unity

Ayodhya Ram Temple Ceremony: BJP Hails It as 'Historic'; Opposition Hopes for Unity

Newspaper Headlines

The front page headlines in all the dailies today talk about the foundation laying of the majestic Ram Mandir . "Ayodhya all decked up "writes the Statesman. The Times Of India reports, "Back in Ayodhya after 29 years, PM to lay first Ram Temple brick today."

The Economic Times notes , "15 new names in list of 47 banned Chinese Applications."

"In a first, Army deploys women soldiers near LOC" notes the Times of India.

The Asian Age reports about the huge blow to Indian IT professionals eyeing the US job market , "Trump bans hiring of H-1B visa holders for government jobs ."

Western Railway to flag off the first rake of 42 wagons containing onions for Bangladesh is a story in the Hindu Business Line.

The Indian Express writes about the inspirational UPSC success stories as the results were declared yesterday , with a farmer's son , an IIT graduate and a fireman among the rankers.

Historic Moment, Wait Has Been Worthwhile: LK Advani On Ayodhya Ceremony

Historic Moment, Wait Has Been Worthwhile: LK Advani On Ayodhya Ceremony

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

"Rituals begin as Ayodhya counts down to August 5", writes Hindustan Times. It says that Iqbal Ansari, son of the oldest litigant in the Ram Janmabhoomi title suit, is to attend the foundation laying ceremony of the Ram temple tomorrow.

"Hopeful of Covid 19 vaccine by year end: ICMR Chief" says Business Standard. "DCGI allows trial of Oxford vaccine on 1600 Indians", writes the Pioneer.

The Tribue reports, "China obdurate, Doval-led panel to chart out course".

"TIKTOK Purchase : Microsoft tries to salvage deal, appease US President", says Financial Express.

"Cut gratuity period from 5 years to one year: parliamentary committee on labour" writes the Hindu.

And finally, The Times of India reports that in a first, Delhi Police used the facial recognition system to track down and arrest three criminals within hours of their dodging a police team.

Ayodhya Ceremony: PM, 4 More On Stage, 175 Invitees, Security Code Entry

Ayodhya Ceremony: PM, 4 More On Stage, 175 Invitees, Security Code Entry

Newspaper Headlines

Home Minister Amit Shah testing ve and admitted to hospital in Gurgaon is the top story in most dailies today.

"Silver lining as Covid-19 recoveries see big spike", headlines Hindustan Times.  The Times of India headline reads, "Covid's deadliest week: 3.7 lakh cases, 5,345 deaths". UP's sole woman cabinet minister Kamal Rani Varun dies of Covid is the headline in The Pioneer.

Quarantine rules eased for inbound international travellers from 8th August, reports The Hindu.

"Fifth round of talks held amid stalemate in Pangong Tso" writes The Indian Express. Army stocking up for winter; ready for long standoff, reports The Asian Age.  A story in The Hindu reveals that Pakistani handles were behind 'Chinese' info war on border stand-off.

Monsoon set to strengthen after weak July rains, writes Hindustan Times.

The Bihar police team, which is in Mumbai, is to investigate the death of Sushant Singh Rajput, will also probe the alleged suicide of his former manager, reports The Statesman.

The first non-white person's image on a British coin could be Gandhi's reports Hindustan Times.

Amit Shah Tests Positive For COVID-19, Attended Cabinet Meet On Wednesday

Amit Shah Tests Positive For COVID-19, Attended Cabinet Meet On Wednesday

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

"New Edu policy to produce job creators, not seekers: Modi", headlines Hindustan Times. The paper added that the Prime Minister strongly backed the push in the newly unveiled policy for use of local language as the medium of instruction in schools.

The Times of India headlines Foreign Minister Jaishankar's statement that Beijing will test India and India must stand up to China.

In a related story, The Pioneer writes, "Amid parleys, PLA moves to Lipulekh". The paper adds that the strategy is seen as a bid by China to needle India.

The Financial Express reports that the Finance Minister has said that the MSME loan relief is set to widen and include units with turnover of up to Rs 250 crores and professionals like doctors, CAs, lawyers etc.

July GST inflow 14% short of last year's collection", reports The Tribune.

The Asian Age headline quotes Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot as saying, "If high command forgive rebels, will welcome them back".

"Hope, fingers crossed: Sharp dip in Delhi cases and spread of infection", says The Indian Express. The paper adds that if the current trend holds the active cases may fall below 1000 come September.

And finally, The Indian Express reveals that the "Cricket world's richest board hasn't paid its star players in 10 months". The BCCI's 27 elite contracted players are yet to receive payments due since October last year, adds the paper.

New education policy emphasises on making ‘job creators’ instead of ‘job seekers’, says PM Modi

New education policy emphasises on making ‘job creators’ instead of ‘job seekers’, says PM Modi

Newspapers Headlines

Under the headline, "At 650 thousand, India closes in on 1 million daily tests target", Hindustan Times reports on positivity rate of Covid crisis declining as strategy to test , trace, and treat is scaled up in the country.

A front page headline in the Economic Times notes the Prime Minister focussing on digital connectivity calling for  "Focus on Telecom Self -reliance and  Security."

"Online open, 3.7 lakh get domicile in a month , 78 percent of them in Jammu "reports The Indian Express.

The Times of India reports about IMD forecast hinting at heavy September rainfall under the  headline, "Monsoon 10 percent deficient in July, Driest in 5 years."

In a landmark move to protect independent journalism"Australia to make Facebook , Google pay for News "writes Financial Express.

Quoting DGCA The Tribune writes , "No International Flights till August 31."

"Foreign University campuses welcome Education policy-2020" calling it a game changing initiative, writes the Asian Age.

Biggest single-day spike of 55,079 cases takes India’s Covid tally past 16 L; 5th highest death toll globally

Biggest single-day spike of 55,079 cases takes India’s Covid tally past 16 L; 5th highest death toll globally

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

'We help partners without preconditions' The Hindustan Times quotes PM Modi's message to China , in a tacit reference to the "debt trap" created by its big-ticket projects, saying India's cooperation is not guided by vested interests.

" 'Disengagement along LAC still incomplete': India rebuts China", is the lead in the Asian Age.

'Herd immunity not an option in India' The Statesman cites the Health Ministry. '...vaccine only option' the Hindustan Times notes the government's observation. The paper also reports "Delhi's containment zones can be denotified in 2 weeks", down from 28 days.

The Times of India leads with "Delhi slashes VAT, makes diesel cheaper by 8 rupees to boost trade".

"Gold amnesty scheme likely soon" the Business Standard reports on a probable step by the Finance Ministry to crack down on tax evasion and cut its dependence on imports.

"How Covid is turning Eid & Rakhi virtual". Mail Today observes, people in the capital curtail shopping, plan Zoom get-togethers, as virus fears alter the way we celebrate festivals.

And finally, "Guinness bestows 'fastest human computation' on Shakuntala Devi", of 28 seconds, four decades after she achieved the feat, writes The Pioneer.