the Indian Air force has cut down flying time for rookie pilots to only 25 flying hours in the first stage, down from the minimum 75 hours that was the norm

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES

The announcement of dates for the forthcoming assembly elections in five states early next year dominates the front pages of most papers. While the Times of India calls the elections "the big game hunt" the Hindustan Times says it will be a "Litmus test for UPA, Opposition, and Anna". Highlighting Uttarakhand Chief Minister B C Khanduri's reaction to the poll schedule, the Pioneer writes "Jan election will repel hill voters, rues Khanduri". Reporting on UP Chief Minister Maywati's expectations, The Mail Today opines "Maya doesn't get her way on April vote".

Even as the papers report on the preparations is being made ahead of Anna Hazare's protest fast and propoised jail-bharo andolan, many of them highlight opinions critical of his methods. The Times of India quotes Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office V Narayansamy as saying "People on streets cant pass Lokpal". The Indian Express reports RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav as saying "Team Anna like dictators, they want lock put on Parliament".

Most papers take note of the orders of a Delhi court to 22 social networking sites. "Delete anti-religious posts: court to networking sites" reports the Hindustan Times. Similarly the Tribune writes "Remove derogatory content by Feb 6, Delhi court tells websites".

In a special front page story the Indian Express reports that faced with an acute shortage of trainer aircraft, the Indian Air force has cut down flying time for rookie pilots to only 25 flying hours in the first stage, down from the minimum 75 hours that was the norm.

And finally, pictures of the festive spirit ahead of Christmas with illuminated cathedrals, children wearing Santa Claus masks and candles being lit at churches bring cheer for all.