India’s Covid crisis: Delhi crematoriums forced to build makeshift pyres

 India’s Covid crisis: Delhi crematoriums forced to build makeshift pyres

Newspaper Headlines

Most the of the newspapers covered India receiving medical supplies from different countries to fight Covid 19 pandemic.

The Statesman says UK sends ventilators, oxygen concentrators. The papers says India received 1st batch of Medical supplies from UK.

The Financial Express states, "US in mission mode to help India", with the Biden administration removing all bureaucratic hurdles to help India in its fight against the deadly Covid 19 pandemic.

Ceos of 40 US  firms to assist India fight Corona, reports The Asian Age.

The Economic Times writes, "India Inc works on getting all employees inoculated." Cos are starting vaccination programmes, finalising tie-ups and sourcing jabs for inhouse drives as all adults become eligible.

With the day of counting of votes soon approaching in four states and a Union Territory, "Election Commission bans victory marches after election results", writes the Hindustan Times.

Union Environment Ministry reconstitutes Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region and adjoining areas reports the Hindustan Times.

India nears 200,000 COVID deaths, daily cases fall, army steps in

 India nears 200,000 COVID deaths, daily cases fall, army steps in

 AN OVERVIEW OF TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS.

The papers have widely covered the latest regarding ways to tackle the second surge in Covid cases.

On Vaccine prices, The Asian Age writes, "Centre asks Bharat Biotech, Serum India to lower prices."

Hindustan Times says, "Free vaccines in Delhi for all adults, says government."

Papers have also noticed Madras High Court's observation widely. "The Tribune in its headline quotes the the High Court, "EC 'singularly' to blame for second Covid surge." while The Asian Age writes, "EC should be charged with murder for allowing poll rallies says Madras High Court."

Other countries coming forward to help India is also widely noticed by the press. The Pioneer writes, "India's SOS gets global response," while Hindustan Times reports, "In call, Modi and Biden discuss Covid supplies."

And Finally, on the academy awards, "China born Zhao's Nomadland makes Oscar history, adding Irrfan Khan, costume designer Bhanu Athaiya honoured by Academy.

World reacts to India’s catastrophic COVID surge

 World reacts to India’s catastrophic COVID surge

Newspaper Headlines

"As surge hits a new peak, Centre approves Oxygen plants at public health facilities. Hindustan Times reports "551 districts to get PSA medical oxygen plants under PM-Cares." While The Statesman observes "Government bars use of liquid oxygen for non-medical purposes".

The dailies have observed about the aids coming from different countries in response to SOS by India. The Times of India writes "From vaccine inputs to PPE, US pledges Covid help."

A front page headline in The Economic Times reports, "From May 1, pick a Covid Vaccine of your choice. The paper adds "Private vaccination centres will have to declare jab on offer, stock and price on the CoWin platform."

"No walk-in for Covid jabs, CoWin registration must" writes The Pioneer.

To prevent obstruction in fight against the pandemic the  government asks social media platforms to remove critical contents and fake news. The Asian Age hedline says "Twitter, Facebook remove hundred posts after government orders."

All the dailies have mentioned the demise of Padma Bhushan awardee Classical singer Pandit Rajan Mishra. The Times of India notes "Benaras Gharana exponent Rajan Mishra dies of Covid."

The Economic Times carries a positive story which speaks about how companies are helping employees with medication, hospitalisation, vaccination, psychiatric care and even last rites services.

Will Send Raw Material "Urgently Required" For Covishield, Says US

 Will Send Raw Material "Urgently Required" For Covishield, Says US

AN OVERVIEW OF TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS.

Financial Express Sunday writes, "High priority to import of drugs, oxygen equipment."

The Times of India headlines, "Govt waives duty on oxygen, vax imports for 3 months."

The Sunday Pioneer carries some bright news, "Oxygen Express whizzes along with elixir of life."

Papers have also noticed raids on Deshmukh in corruption case. Hindustan Times writes, 'CBI raids premises linked to Deshmukh in graft probe."

Financial Express Sunday writes, "Deadline to pay under Vivad se Vishwas now June 30."

And Finally, "Justice Ramana administered oath as 48th CJI."

2 Delhi Hospitals Send SOS For Oxygen Just Before Midnight

 2 Delhi Hospitals Send SOS For Oxygen Just Before Midnight

AN OVERVIEW OF TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS.

Almost all the dailies headline the Covid crisis sweeping the nation with Hindustan Times captioning- "Second wave still far from peaking".

Amid Oxygen crisis crippling the healthcare system - "PM Modi holds meet with Chief Ministers" writes The Asian Age in the frontpage story.

Chief justice of India, Justice Bobde demits office as new incumbent Justice NV Ramana takes over, reports The Tribune.

Centre allots 5 kg of food grains free to poor for the next two months under the national food security act writes The Hindu in the front page story.

Prime Minister urges states not to stop any oxygen tanker in transit under any circumstances with Railways and Indian Air force on the job, reports The Indian Express.

Share Markets plunge, rupee tumbles amid selling pressure and steady stream of grim news surrounding Covid is the front page boxed item story in Financial Express.

And finally, formal job creation in India maintained its pace in February with EPFO, ESI and NPS reporting healthy subscriber addition in the month reports The Economic Times.

"Americans First": US Defends Export Ban On Covid Vaccine Raw Materials To India

 "Americans First": US Defends Export Ban On Covid Vaccine Raw Materials To India

AN OVERVIEW OF TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:-

All the dailies have reported about the Supreme Court asking the centre to present a national plan for oxyygen,medicines,vaccines and lockdowns, taking suo motu cognisance of Covid crisis. Quoting the apex court.

The Hindu says "We expect national  plan from centre on oxygen, drugs."

"All 18 plus can register from 28th April for vaccine jabs" reports The Asian Age.

With stricter provisions invoked a front page headline in The Economic Times writes "No curbs on movement of Oxygen vehicles." Quoting the centre it says "District adminitrations will be held responsible in case of any violation."

The Indian Express quoting the Finance Minister writes "Second wave will not affect big reform push."

"US drug major Pfizer says it will offer vaccine at 'not-for-profit' price" for India's immunisation programme, writes The Times of India.

The dailies have also mentioned the launch of India-US Climate Agenda 2030 announced by the Prime Minister.

Nasa had logged another extraterrestrial first on its latest mission to Mars, converting Carbon di-oxide from martian atmosphere into pure breathable Oxygen reports Hindustan Times.

Like Sachin, love the job

 Like Sachin, love the job

By G S Vasu
At one of the meetings I had with a group of associates, I asked if they loved watching a movie in a theatre. The response was a ‘yes’. Turning to the smokers, I asked if they loved every puff they took. ‘Yes’, they replied. The same was the response from those who loved every sip of whisky or beer. The young replied in the affirmative when asked if they loved dating their girlfriend (it is a different matter that they may hate her after marriage and find the girl next door more impressive).
On all these, they spend money — for cinema tickets, cigarettes, liquor and a cup of coffee or a favourite dish for the girlfriend. Then, I asked why they don’t love the work they do, though they get paid for it. The small gathering just remained silent.
Many greats paid glowing tributes to Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar on his completing 20 years of international cricket, but the one fundamental reason that has kept him going for two decades is the simple fact that he loves doing what he does, an aspect the legend himself has emphasised more than once. Being just one among his millions of fans, I am not qualified to write about his exploits on the field, but I began wondering how a case-study of his success, rather his traits, applied to almost every organisation or company — those that do exceedingly well and emerge leaders, those that keep trying to do better but never manage to reach the goal and those that just fall apart.
How many of us actually love what we do at the work place? Many don’t, whether they admit it or not. It could be true of a carpenter, a journalist, a manager or a marketing person. But the fact is most of us spend 70 per cent of our active life at work and if we don’t enjoy that time, life itself becomes meaningless. Making employees love what they are supposed to do is the key to the success of any organisation. Otherwise, it is like a husband and wife living together (for a variety of reasons) but not exactly loving each other. Just as my boss makes it a point to emphasise that in respect of journalists, there is no alternative to good writing. But it is possible only when one does it with passion.
‘You’re only as good as you are today’. It is true of everyone, Tendulkar included. How many times have we heard or read people saying it was time he quit, until the maestro kept proving himself again and again, just as he did in Hyderabad recently when he played one of the finest one-day innings the game has seen? Sachin is under scrutiny all the time but lesser mortals like us can often get away with non-performance. I had a colleague who always told me how he had exposed some scandal two decades ago. But, in the last decade of his service, I never saw him write and he could get away with it. Even today, the one remark that I keep hearing from employees in various organisations is: “We have worked very hard in the initial years of our service. But, we are no longer interested.”
The reasons could vary: one hasn’t got a promotion for years, another hasn’t received a decent increment and yet another has no faith in the future of the organisation he works for. Creating effective mechanisms — money and recognition — is the key to motivating people, the two factors that had a role to play even in Tendulkar’s success, just as they had a negative impact in the case of other equally talented sportspersons who did not have the same kind of money or recognition in a cricket-crazy nation.
One manager was confronted with a similar situation in a department — a bunch of disheartened staffers, more than required, and all of them doing things in the most routine fashion. Some of them were capable, a few others incorrigible or ‘resisters to change’ as I would like to put it. The latter group was slowly weeded out and a part of the money saved used to reward those who remained. They are much better off today than a few months ago; five of them doing what eight did earlier. After all, as Jack Welch said in his Winning, plaques and public fanfare have their place. But without money rewards lose a lot of their sheen. Equally important is a non-bureaucratic and meaningful evaluation system so that the right people are rewarded. I am reminded of the CEO of a company who spent all his time in the office in engaging low-level employees to spy on the seniors. Over the years, it wrecked the careers of many and in the process the organisation itself. Just as Indian selectors often kill promising sportspersons because the consideration is not based on talent but something else.
For one last time, I shall return to Sachin and this time it is about the lack of ego despite all the success he has achieved, and his commitment and integrity. Good and great people never think they have reached the top of their game and they never allow their integrity to be questioned. Today, he is praised as much for his commitment and integrity as for his batting. But, how many companies have heads with a similar attitude? On the contrary, many of them are saddled with leaders, smart and capable, but who believe they are so indispensable that they should not be bound by anything, including the company’s values, which are written in boldface and kept on the table to draw everyone’s attention except their own.
They can never be in a team, just as a friend narrated the episode in a company where one head kept fingering another till the latter left, totally frustrated and dejected. There is this story of another senior manager who used all his creativity to violate a rule and claim refund of a certain expenditure that is not allowed. The accountant knew passing the bill was a mistake and yet could not muster the guts to say ‘no’ because the claim was made by the boss. More often not, ethics apply more to the heads than those under them because it is the former who has to set an example and also has a greater opportunity to steal, lie or cheat.
Sachin might have walked on to the cricket field hundreds of times so far and yet each time all of us cheer every minute that he spends at the crease and feel terrible when he walks back. The reverse is perhaps true of most heads — employees hate the moment the boss enters office and feel relieved when he/she leaves. That’s why I would say the life of Sachin Tendulkar can be a good lesson for any corporation that is required to manage a large workforce as it would be, in any case, to every aspiring cricketer.
About the author:
G S Vasu is the resident editor of ‘The New Indian Express’, Andhra Pradesh and is based in Hyderabad

With 3.14 lakh new COVID-19 cases, India records world's highest daily surge

 With 3.14 lakh new COVID-19 cases, India records world's highest daily surge

AN OVERVIEW OF TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS.

Centre steps in to restore oxygen supplies to Delhi, is a The Hindu headline.

Covaxin efficacy 78 per cent works against variants, says The Times of India.

The Pioneer reports that only 0.03 per cent vaccinated get re-infected, for Covaxin, only 0.04 per cent afficted with coronavirus again after 2nd dose.

Zojila Pass re-opens; Big relief for Laddakh, Army, says The Asian Age.

Indian Space Research Organisation will support eight joint research projects mooted by the space technology cell of the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, is a story in The Tribune.

The Financial Express in its headlines says that agriculture exports are up 19 per cent in April-Feb of FY 21.

And finally is The Pioneer on its front page reports of Good Samaritans in these covid times, drivers offering to pick-up covid bodies, housewives providing home-cooked food to covid patients, are some of the heart rending examples.

Grim record: Over 3.16 lakh new Covid-19 cases in India, highest ever for any country

 Grim record: Over 3.16 lakh new Covid-19 cases in India, highest ever for any country

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES,

Almost all newspapers today lead with excerpts from the Prime Minister's address to the nation. Use lockdowns only as last  resort: PM to states." writes the Hindustan Times while the Pioneer headline reads, "Defer lockdown till possible".

"HC order for lockdown in 5 UP cities stayed by top court", writes The Hindu.

Giving a boost to the national effort to flight the corona pandemic "DRDO setting up huge Covid facilities in 4 cities", "Def Min asks services Chiefs to open their hospitals for civilians", writes The Pioneer.

With plans in pipeline to expand availability, "Vax Cos frame plans to boost production", is a front page headline in The Economic Times.

With the government relaxing the age and availability criteria, India Inc rushes to inoculate staff", is a headline in the Business Standard.

Finally, attending to the call of duty inspite of all odds, The Times of India has a picture of a daunting 29 year old Shilpa Sahu, with the caption, "Lathi in hand, pregnant DSP enforces lockdown in Dantewada".

Telangana Imposes Night Curfew from Today as Covid-19 Cases Surge

 Telangana Imposes Night Curfew from Today as Covid-19 Cases Surge

AN OVERVIEW OF TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS.

"Vaccine for all above eighteen from May 1" is the top front page headline in all the dailies today. The Tribune reports "With the government announcing a liberalised inoculation policy, States, Private hospitals to procure directly from makers."

A headline in The Hindu quoting the ICMR says "Second wave is not more lethal. Those above sixty are still most at risk."

The Economic Times observes "4.5 thousand crore rupees advance payment for Serum Institute, Bharat Biotech, as finance minister relaxes rules to allow release of payment without bank guarantee."

With rising Covid cases in the city "Summer vacation for all Delhi schools to begin today" reports The Indian Express.

And Finally, In a Wright Brothers' moment, achieving the first powered controlled flight by an aircraft over the surface of another planet, Hindustan Times writes "Nasa's ingenuity chopper performs first flight from Mars." While The Times of India mentions about its Desi-Link. Under the headline, "Historic Mars helicopter flight has key desi link", adding Bob Balaram is Chief engineer for the Mars helicopter project.

Vaccine For All Above 18 Starting May 1

 Vaccine For All Above 18 Starting May 1

AN OVERVIEW OF TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS.

All newspapers today lead with the surge in Covid-19 cases.

"New Symptoms strictly different, say experts, writes the Pioneer, Gastrointestinal issues, nausea, dry mouth were uncommon during first Covid phase informs the paper.

"Government restricts supply of oxygen to industry writes the Statesman.

Beyond call of duty: Cops rush oxygen, Meds to save lives, is a headline in the Times of India. This story details how Delhi police personnel, turned saviours for many residents during the weekend curfew.

In view of the pandemic "packaged, hygiene goods back in focus," writes the Business Standard.

Confident of the BJP's victory in the West Bengal Assembly polls,"quoting  Amit Shah, "Didi demoralised as BJP ahead in 122 seats" states the Asian Age.

"With investors infusing a whopping sum into India start-ups, "Start-up funding touches new high in 2021," writes the Financial Express.

And finally, with the stage all set for the Academy Awards 2021, "Oscars show reinvented as a movie with masks, longer speeches, states the Indian Express".

India sees 2.6 lakh COVID-19 cases as Maharashtra, Delhi register record spike; Manmohan Singh pens letter to PM

India sees 2.6 lakh COVID-19 cases as Maharashtra, Delhi register record spike; Manmohan Singh pens letter to PM

AN OVERVIEW OF TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS.

"Make rest of Kumbh only symbolic: PM" is a Hindustan Times headline. Two Mahamandleshwars have alreaday succumbed to the viral disease, even as the Shahi Snanas so far have seen participation by millions says the report.

Delhi under lockdwon, still registers record 24k caeses reports the Asian Age.

The Sunday Tribune reports that Himachal Pradesh is preparing action plan to tackle a drought like situation.

"Delhi gasping for oxygen" headlines The Pioneer quoting the Delhi Chief Minister also, pointing to a spike in cases in just 24 hours.

S. Mirabai Chanu setting a new world record at the Asian Weightlifting championship at Tashkent is a major story on the sports pages of most papers.

And Finally, The Financial Express reports of a rising new trend in advertising - that of using 'Character Actors' for brand endorsement. The A list actrors are distant while the consumers connect more with micro star.

Maharashtra Reports Over 67,100 Covid Cases In Biggest Ever One-Day Surge

 Maharashtra Reports Over 67,100 Covid Cases In Biggest Ever One-Day Surge

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

As curfews spread across the country, a front page top headline in Hindustan Times writes "57 percent of India under curbs as deaths soar on Black friday."

On nationwide panic over shortage of medical oxygen, The Tribune quoting the government writes "Tankers with oxygen need no permit."

Hoping to escalate vaccination to beat the severe disease The Pioneer notes "Covaxin production to double by Jun, Seven fold by July -August." The Economic Times adds "Aims to scale up monthly capacity to a hundred million doses by Sept from ten million now."

The Hindu writes "UK nod for extradition of Nirav Modi in Punjab National Bank fraud Case."

"ICSE, ISC exams put off, Class X students can opt not to take board exams" reports The Indian Express.

The Statesman quotes the Chief Economic Advisor saying "Economy in better shape compared to previous Covid 19 wave."

And Finally, Amid concerns that RT-PCR may be failing to detect SARS-COV 2 variants, The Times of India clears it by quoting the centre saying "RT-PCR can detect variants found in India."

India coronavirus: Desperate Covid-19 patients turn to black market for drugs

 India coronavirus: Desperate Covid-19 patients turn to black market for drugs

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

To break the chain of infection a weekend curfew in place, "Capital tightens curbs as cases spiral out of control" writes the Hindustan Times.

Speeding up the process of emergency use authorisation  "Foreign Vax: Government to decide within 3 days of application" states the Economic Times.

Dismissing speculation over the final four phases of the Assembly Elections, "No plan to club rest 4 phases in Bengal: EC" writes the Pioneer.

Addressing the top IAF commanders', quoting the Defence Minister, The Times of India writes, "Plan to counter future threats: Rajnath to IAF."

Commenting on a universal bank in the country, "8 entities line up for RBI's on-tap banking licences" is a front page headline in the Business Standard.

Taking note of the comment of Chief Justice of India, The Asian Age quoting S A Bobde writes, "Time has come for woman Chief Justice of India."

And finally, with the big screen making inroads in many homes, "210 million Indian homes now have a TV; women owners surge by 7 per cent" writes the Times of India.

Two To A Bed, Bodies Outside Ward At Delhi Hospital Amid Covid Crisis

 Two To A Bed, Bodies Outside Ward At Delhi Hospital Amid Covid Crisis

AN OVERVIEW OF TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:-

The Union government ordering the cancellation of the CBSE class X and postponing the clase XII examinations amid a steep nationwide surge in COVID-19 cases is one of the stories that is covered prominently by most of the dailies this morning. "CBSE postpones exams for class XII, cancels for class X" writes The Hindu Business Line.

"Centre gives nod to double production of Remdesivir" reports The Times of India.

The Indian Express quoting Dr. Reddy's laboratories writes "Sputnik V will start arriving in this quarter".

The Statesman quotes Russia as saying "India a trusted partner, limited cooperation with Pakistan".

"Won't raise climate ambition under pressure, says Centre" informs Hindustan Times. The Tribune quoting Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar says "India not responsible for climate change".

Finally, beat Corona with 30-minute brisk walk daily! Well, The Pioneer reports that physical inactivity may land you in ICU or also prove fatal for you in case the virus clings to you, claims study.

‘Super-spreader’: Over 1,000 COVID positive at India’s Kumbh Mela

 ‘Super-spreader’: Over 1,000 COVID positive at India’s Kumbh Mela

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

With the recent surge in covid cases most newspapers today take note of plans to add more jabs to the existing basket of vaccines," Govt. to fast-track nod for foreign vaccines in India" notes the Asian Age.

Record 13.5 K cases in a day, Kejriwal seeks to defer exams, writes the Pioneer.

Reporting on the development post the 24 hour campaign ban imposed by the Election Commission. " Didi holds dharna over EC ban, Shah keeps up attack" wirtes the Hindustan Times.

Moving a step closer to the national carrier's privatisation, "suitors asked to place bids for Air India" writes the Financial Express.

Attributing it to some recovery in consumption during the second half, "Indirect tax collection rises 12 per cent in FY21", states the Business Standard.

"Skymet forecasts a 'healthy normal' monsoon", states the Hindu.

"Sushil Chandra takes over as 24th CEC" is a front page story in The Statesman.

And Finally, the e-courts project is on its way to give a 24/7 digital window to litigants, "E-court may let cases be filed 24/7 from anywhere", headlines the Times of India.

India Clears Way For Foreign-Made Vaccines, Wants Applications Soon

 India Clears Way For Foreign-Made Vaccines, Wants Applications Soon

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES.

All the dailies have covered on its front page headline about India getting its  third vaccine as Subject Expert Committee clears Sputnik. The Hindu writes "Äs cases surge, panel approves Russia's Sputnik V vaccine."

The Times of India reports "Covaxin, Covishield both work against UK strain" according to a study by the ICMR researchers.

The Pioneer reports the ban of meal services on flights to minimise the risk of Covid 19 situation under the headline "No meals in less than two hours flight."

With biggest one day drop in two months "stocks slump nearly 3.5 percent on lockdown fear", notes The Economic Times.

Hindustan Times writes "NDA Government pushes more ordinances than UPA in ten years" according to a  data .

"Five new animal species discovered in Tibet" is a report in The Statesman, challenging the long held view that the Himalayan mountains are a desolate and lifeless region.

And Finally, Easily the biggest moment for the sport and  changing the face of Golf in Asia, the newspapers have all captured the news of Matsuyama becoming the first Japanese man to don the Masters Green Jacket. 

"Unconstitutional": Mamata Banerjee To Sit On Dharna Over Campaign Ban

 "Unconstitutional": Mamata Banerjee To Sit On Dharna Over Campaign Ban

NEWSPAPER  HEADLINES.

Reporting on the Covid front, "Capital's daily cases breach 10,000 mark", writes The Hindustan Times.

With the call to optimally utilize the nation's vaccination capacity, quoting the Prime Minister The Times of India, states "On tika utsav' PM asks all to follow 4 mantras."

With flyers deferring trips, the Business Standard headline reads, "Staying grounded: Flyers shelve travel itineraries, flight loads slide below 100."

With the pandemic having far reaching effects, Under the caption 'Hiring Meter', the Financial Express writes, "More temps in demand, fewer permanent jobs."

On the election front in West Bengal Didi, Shah lock horns over election violence, deaths." states The Pioneer.

With more movement on the case of suspended cop Sachin Waze, "NIA arrests Waze associate Kazi", writes The Tribune.

With India planning on expansion of Iran's strategically located Chabahar Port through the supply of two more cranes, "India plans expansion in Iran's Chabahar." states The Economic Times.

And finally, the Indian Express has a story of the determined Aswathy, a first year MBBS student, "For her dream, MBBS student fights her cerebral palsy and a system."

48 Hours Notice, Financial Aid: Maharashtra Working to Soften The Blow as Lockdown 2.0 Looms

 48 Hours Notice, Financial Aid: Maharashtra Working to Soften The Blow as Lockdown 2.0 Looms

AN OVERVIEW OF TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES:-

India crossing a milestone of administering ten crore doses of vaccines is one of the stories that dominates headlines this morning. "Vaccinations cross 10 crore doses despite the recent dip" says The Hindu.

"Delhi bans political, sports gatherings" informs The Asian Age.

The Pioneer quoting the Election Commission writes "Stick to Covid behaviour or face campaign ban".

"5 killed in voting day violence in West Bengal" reports Hindustan Times. "Mamata, Modi spar over Bengal violence" notes The Statesman.

In a related story The Tribune informs "Additional forces rushed to Bengal".

The Economic Times reports that the US National Intelligence Council has warned that India and China may slip into a conflict that neither government intends.

"India, China agree to avoid new incidents" informs The Statesman.

"Setback for BJP in Tripura tribal council election" reports The Times of India.

Finally, "Basic savings account can now be opened in post office". Well, The Hindu Business Line reports that the account maintenance fee halved to 50 rupees for Post Office Savings Account.

"Forces Opened Fire To Save Lives": Election Commission On Bengal Deaths

 "Forces Opened Fire To Save Lives": Election Commission On Bengal Deaths

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES

Newspapers carry different stories on their front pages today.

The Pioneer headlines, "US drill in EEZ, India protests."

With Bengal all set for fourth phase of polls today, Hindustan Times writes,"44 seats at stake in fourth phase of Bengal polls today,"

With alarming surge in Covid cases, The Times of India reports, "India's active cases cross one million, at all-time high now," With rising cases in Maharashtra, The Asian Age informs, "Total Maha lockdown looms as state runs out of vaccines," and The Hindu writes, "Delhi government plans several curbs as Covid cases cross 8.5k mark." Sub-headlines read "Proposal to ban all gatherings except marriages and funerals" and "Schools shut till further notice."

In a significant move the apex court on Friday said that people are free to choose their religion. Hindustan Times headlines, "SC terms petition seeking law against conversion 'harmful'.

And Finally, with Queen Elizabeth's husband, Prince Phillip's death, The Indian Express writes, "For Britain's Queen Elizabeth, 'the only man I could ever love.'

India records highest daily spike of over 1.31 lakh COVID-19 cases; 780 deaths

 India records highest daily spike of over 1.31 lakh COVID-19 cases; 780 deaths

Newspapers Headlines

An emergency meeting of the Prime Minister with all the Chief ministers covers the front page headline in all the dailies today. "Hard lockdown ruled out, PM says focus on testing", writes Hindustan Times. "Defending age criteria and to avoid vaccine wastage Prime Minister suggests holding a 'Teeka Mahotsav' to boost coverage" adds the paper.

The Pioneer reports "New Zealand halts travel from India for two weeks."

"Government to invite bids for solar production-linked incentive in two weeks", notes The Financial Express.

"India inc on the jab to vaccinate staff above 45", says The Economic Times" with companies setting up facilities after government allows inoculation at workplace."

The Indian Express reports "Johnson & Johnson set to begin India trial of its single-shot vaccine soon."

On the abducted Commando in the Naxal ambush last week, The Hindu headline says "Maoists release CRPF commando after 5-days."

For the first time those seeking admission to undergraduate courses in central universities will have to fill up online form and appear for a Common Entrance Test, likely by June end.

26 Mumbai Vaccine Centres Shut, Maharashtra Flags After Centre's Charge

 26 Mumbai Vaccine Centres Shut, Maharashtra Flags After Centre's Charge

Newspapers Headlines

In view of the recent surge in Covid 19 cases, "Shots at workplaces from April 11", "Public, Private offices with 100 'eligible' people can get covid jabs." states The Pioneer.

Calling it the "Suraksha Kavach', the Delhi High Court states,"Wearing mask mandatory even if driving alone.", writes The Hindu.

In letter to court, Waze names Sena minister over Rs 50 crore demand", is a front page story in The Indian Express.

"Maoists release picture of captured commando' "Self appointed interlocutor enters forest to negotiate release." is a lead story in The Asian Age.

"RBI takes the QE road", "Rs 1 - trillion bond purchase plan in first quarter cheers up market", writes The Business Standard. Covid surge adding to uncertainty RBI Keeps key rate unchanged, states The Indian Express.

Quoting the US climate envoy John Kerry, The Times of India writes, "US will facilitate access to green tech".

In a bid to destress the students ahead of the upcoming board examinations, "Don't fear exams: PM to students in 'Pariksha Pe Charcha', writes The Indian Express.

1.15 Lakh Daily Covid Cases In India, Biggest Rise So Far

 1.15 Lakh Daily Covid Cases In India, Biggest Rise So Far

Newspapers Headlines

Delhi government clamping night curfew is one of the stories that dominates headlines this morning. "Night curfew back in Delhi" leads Business Standard adding "Curbs will be imposed from 10 pm to 5 am till April 30; essential services exempted".

 The Business Line quotes Member Health, NITI Aayog V K Paul as saying "Next 4 weeks critical to battle 2nd Covid wave".

"India, Russia discuss defence production" notes the Tribune. "Won't forge military ties with China, Russia assures India" informs the Pioneer.

"Stray violence mars phase 3 polling in West Bengal" observes the Statesman.

"As CBI begins probe on High Court orders Maharashtra government, Deshmukh move separate pleas in Supreme Court" reports the Indian Express.

"Forces may use copters to hunt down top Naxals" states the Asian Age.

"Vigilance officers to be transferred every 3 years". Well the Hindu quoting the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) writes "this is to ensure transparency".

96,982 Fresh Covid Cases In India Day After 1-Lakh Mark Was Breached

 96,982 Fresh Covid Cases In India Day After 1-Lakh Mark Was Breached

Newspapers Headlines

The surge in covid cases and the Maharastra Row are some of the stories that hog the lilmelight today.

"Delhi mulls night curfew, PM to meet CMs as wave surges, "Deshmukh quits after court orders CBI probe" are the leads in the Hindustan Times.

In a bid to eliminate armed Naxals "Shah revisits strategy to wipe out Maoists" writes the Pioneer.

With the amendment of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, " the Business Standard reports, IBC amended to ease resolution of MSME Cases."

On the India Russia talks, The Hindu writes, Lavrov-Jaishankar talks today, Russian Foreign Minister's visit to focus on peace efforts in Afghanistan."

A pre-Independence electricity meter form Lahore, a refugee card, sewing machine, hand-crocheted item, "such are the items that are to be at display at the Dara Shikoh Library in Ambedkar University Delhi informs" the Times of India.

Anil Deshmukh Quits As Maharashtra Home Minister, To Challenge CBI Probe

 Anil Deshmukh Quits As Maharashtra Home Minister, To Challenge CBI Probe

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

As India records this year's biggest single -day jump in Covid cases, The Statesman reports "Alarming spurt: Modi reviews Covid Control." The Times of India adds "Maharashtra shuts eateries, malls, curbs travel."

A headline in The Hindu reports "Amid Virus surge, Russian vaccine may get the nod" for emergency use in the country within ten days.

Most of the dailies have also covered the news of Maoists attacking a joint team of security forces in Chhattisgarh. The Asian Age headline says "Twenty Two Jawans killed, One missing after forces walk into Maoist ambush."

A front page inbox picture in Hindustan Times shows a fire raging through a forest area in Uttarakhand's Pauri. The hill state is witnessing 45 blazing clusters of woodlands, triggering an alarm in the state.

"Another batch of Rafale jets to fly in by mid-May" completing the first squadron of the fighters in the Indian Air Force, writes The Hindu.

The Economic Times cites "Start-ups end financial year 21 on a high note as fund flows top in quarter 4."

And Finally, The Indian Express reports an encouraging story of Skalzang Dorje, under the headline "Teacher, manager, mountaineer and now, first cricketer from Ladakh in J&K team."

Maharashtra Announces Night Curfew, Weekend Lockdown Amid Covid Spike

 Maharashtra Announces Night Curfew, Weekend Lockdown Amid Covid Spike

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES.

In a report scotching rumours of scarcity of Covid-19 vaccines, the Business Line writes "No shortage of Covid-19 vaccines, says Government. Jabs top 7 crore".

"Rural jobs scheme generated record 3.9 billion days of work" reports the Hindustan Times. 

"5 security men killed in Sukma encounter" leads the Hindu.

"Player blaming umpire (Election Commission), something wrong with (Mamata) game, says PM" observes the Indian Express. 

In another story the paper writes "Oxygen alarm bells in Maharashtra, hospital beds running out, shortage of cylinders".

"Assam: PM asks militants to drop guns, join mainstream" writes the Asian Age.

"Taiwan thanks India for showing solidarity over railway disaster" informs the Statesman.

"69 years of Rajya Sabha: Debate rages over its role" notes the Tribune.

And finally, The Asian Age carries a photograph on its front page of Pople Francis leaning his forehead against the cross during the veneration of the cross as he celebrates the mass for the passion of christ at St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican.

Mumbai Reports Over 9,000 Coronavirus Cases In A Day For The First Time

 Mumbai Reports Over 9,000 Coronavirus Cases In A Day For The First Time

TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS.

The Indian Express in its front page headline reports" States start moving to contain surge, Centre says 11 states/UTs are of 'grave concern'."

"To increase the pace of vaccination Government plans to set up jab points in schools, offices" writes Hindustan Times. While The Times of India says" Walk-ins for shots four times the number of online registrations."

Business Standard quoting the government writes" No export ban on Covid-19 vaccines."

"More women go Big on Gig during pandemic" observes The Economic Times as number of women taking up gig jobs in sales, customer services has nearly doubled since Covid outbreak.

Another headline in The Times of India writes "IIT-Delhi keeps promise, reduces its carbon footprint by over 50 percent."

The Statesman reports" Modi accepts Biden's invite for climate summit on 22nd April."

And Finally, "First state-of-the-art jail to open in Solan district of Himachal" with an industrial kitchen and semi automatic cooking system making reformal steps towards prison reforms reports The Tribune.

"Strict Restrictions Soon": Uddhav Thackeray On Maharashtra Covid Surge

 "Strict Restrictions Soon": Uddhav Thackeray On Maharashtra Covid Surge

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

With the surge in covid-19 cases, "Big spike in Delhi, grim milestone for Mumbai", writes Hindustan Times. With over 8000 cases, Maharashtra capital sets new one-day case record for any Indian city, Delhi logs biggest jump since December 8."

A shot for Posterity : Vaccine selfies go Viral, The Economic Times writes how "Images are powerful weapon to influence masses, and the era of social media has given them a new dimension."

Reporting on the fastest rollback so far, "Overnight rollback: FM restores savings rates." writes the Business Standard.

On the Assembly elections in West Bengal, The Statesman writes, "Bengal Phase 2: Temperatures run high". Overall voter turnout at 80.43 percent till 5 pm; sporadic incidents of violence as TMC accuses BJP, Central forces of voter intimidation."

In a bid to reducing travel time between Delhi and Meerut from 2.5 hours to 45 minutes " Meerut just 45 minutes away from Delhi as e-way opens" writes The Pioneer.

Mamata Banerjee Not Contesting Another Seat: Trinamool Dismisses PM's Dig

 Mamata Banerjee Not Contesting Another Seat: Trinamool Dismisses PM's Dig

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

The papers have widely noticed the expansion of the vaccination drive starting today apart from the latest coming in from poll-bound states.

Hindustan Times writes, "Drive widens, 50 million set for both shots by May 15" while The Pioneer says, "Identify low vaccine coverage pockets, States UTs told."

Electoral battle in Bengal reaches a feverish pitch. The Statesman writes, Bengal warms up for 2nd phase polling. "All eyes on Nandigram as Bengal votes in second phase today, reports The Financial Express."

On the above-normal temperatures in Delhi, The Times of India writes "This March was the city's warmest in 11 years".

And finally, with some regions facing the heatwave already, Hindustan Times informs, "Summer may be warmer than usual in some states."

India reports highest death toll this year; records 53,480 new COVID-19 cases

 India reports highest death toll this year; records 53,480 new COVID-19 cases

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINE:

The Covid-19 surge continuing with active cases rising is one of the stories that finds prominent mention in the dailies. "Unless checked, surge can overwhelm health systems, Centre tells states" leads the Tribune.

"Voting tomorrow: High-octane campaigns by Mamata, Shah draw battlelines in Nandigram" reports the Indian Express.

On the Ladakh theatre amid disengagement, Hindustan Times writes "No change in posture of India, China air forces".

The Asian Age quotes Prime Minister Narendra Modi as saying "As Judas betrayed Jesus, LDF deceived people of Kerala".

And finally, Financial Express reports that starting April 1, there will be no automatic recurring payment for various services, including recharge and utility bill, as the RBI has made Additional Factor of Authentication mandatory.