BJP's team announced: Narendra Modi elevated to parliamentary board

BJP's team announced: Narendra Modi elevated to parliamentary board (Indan Express)
Narendra Modi inducted into BJP's parliamentary board (TOI)
bjp's team 2014 announced modi gets larger role (sahara samay)
Modi inducted into BJP Parliamentary Board (jagran post)
BJP's Team 2014 announced; Narendra Modi returns (zee)
Modi inducted into BJP's parliamentary board after 6 years; no place for Shivraj (HT)
Rajnath Singh inducts Modi in BJP's parliamentary board (India Today)
BJP announces Parliamentary Board, Narendra Modi reinducted  (ibnlive)
Modi enters BJP parliamentary board, Chauhan ignored (first post)


NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES

Beni Prasad Verma accusing the SP Chief of conspiring with the VHP and saying that the next polls will mark the Samajwadi party's end is the lead in almost all papers. 'Congress embarrassed as Beni Prasad fires another salvo at Mulayam' reads the Hindu headline. '

The image of 'Incredible India' has taken a massive beating since the gangrape case, writes the Hindustan Times, on its front page. 'Gangrape hits India image, 25% fall in foreign tourists' is the paper's headline.

The noose seems to be gradually tightening around boxer Vijender Singh. 'In call records, conclusive evidence against Vijender' writes the Indian Express. SMS's between the boxing superstar, Ram Singh and drug dealer Kahlon are likely to be bad news for him,writes the paper.

The appointment of SC Sinha, the NIA Chief as member - National Human Rights Commission seems to be jinxed. 'BJP hoists red flag on NHRC Chief choice' writes the Pioneer. This has been reported by the Statesman and the Asian Age too.

Are you popping in Calcium tablets thinking they will be good for your bones? Beware, The Times of India, on its front page, writes that according to the latest research in the US, 'Calcium overuse can up heart risk and that over 1000 mg a day may be fatal for men'.

With summers just round the corner, you might be thinking of ways to beat the heat. The Statesman reports that the Indian Council of Medical Research has developed a jacket, which would be a personal cooling garment or PCG, and has even applied for a patent .The good news is that, it should be available by next year!

UPA's inaction on Saudi law leaves Keralites fuming

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES

The question of the stability of the present political configuration at the Centre dominates the papers today. The Hindustan Times quotes Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav as saying "Congress corrupt, but we wont quit". The Pioneer reports the Trinamool Congress as saying "Minority UPA must go now". Highlighting the BJP's response to talk of a likely third front, the Hindu writes "Third Front has no relevance ,says BJP".

A new Saudi labour policy that mandates that 5 to 25 percent staff of a private company with a minimum of 49 employees must be Saudis gets wide attention in the press. "Kerala worried as expats may lose jobs to Saudi labour law" reports the Indian Express. The Pioneer writes "UPA's inaction on Saudi law leaves Keralites fuming".

The killing of 10 Maoists by a Maoist splinter group Tritiya Prastuti Committee or TPC in Chattra district of Jharkhand early Thursday is keenly tracked by the papers. Highlighting the fact that the largely tribal TPC has been resisting the he gemony of the Yadavs in the Maoist ranks, the Hindustan Times labels the killings as "More of a caste war than class difference".

The Tribune, in a front page story, reports that the Supreme Court has upheld the Punjab and Haryana High Court ruling that any Will not signed by two witnesses and unregistered is 'only a piece of paper in the eyes of law, having no legal effect".

In a special front page story, the Times of India writes "43% of teaching slots in IIT's lying unfilled". And on the subject of education, the Pioneer reports that the HRD Ministry is proposing to introduce a student friendly national online test system for entrance tests to professional and academic courses.

A report in the Times of India cautions smokers. The paper writes that new research in the UK has shown that smoking may be a sign of psychiatric illness as one in three smokers has been found to have mental disorders.

And finally, the Hindu has an interesting story on how a huge 100 kilogram rock used by a Spanish farmer for pressing ham has turned out to be an asteroid worth a whopping 5.3 million dollars.

Economy needs a bypass as CAD reaches double of 91

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES

Almost all papers have carried reports on BRICS Summit along with a quote from the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh stating his confidence on completing full five years and that the next Lok Sabha elections will take place on schedule in 2014. The Mail Today headlines it as "Singh is King, Manmohan game for another stint as PM in 2014.

Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani school girl shot in the head at point blank range by Taliban for advocating girl's education, has become a millionaire by signing a deal for around 3 million dollars to publish her memories reports The Hindustan Times.

According to Mail Today, the Information and Broadcasting Minister Manish Tewari has indicated that the government would hold in abeyance the new notification by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) seeking to put a 12- minute hourly cap on advertisements on TV channels, which would have created serious financial difficulties for broadcasters.

Most news papers have carried the story on India's current account deficit (CAD) hitting a record 6.7 per cent of GDP in Q3, driven mainly by larger trade deficit on account of uncontrolled imports of oil and gold. The Economic Times covers it under the headline "Economy needs a bypass as CAD reaches double of 91".

The Times of India on its front page reports that Internet users worldwide are having to endure slow connections after the biggest cyberattack in history. The attackers are throwing so much digital traffic at online networks that they have reportedly disrupted access to popular sites.

And finally, The Times of India on its business page writes that regions in India can be distinctly identified by the spoken language, cuisine and the general attire of people. Now donations too gives a clue about demographics. According to Give India study with Rs 9500 as average donation amount, west ranks the highest and the least average contribution amount was from east zone.

LIL AMOK - The Art Of Being You

For US lawmakers, Gujarat best for business

For US lawmakers, Gujarat best for business (HT)
U.S. legislators praise Modi, to work for his visa (Hindu)
US Congressmen invite ‘dynamic’ Narendra Modi to America (Zee)
Now, US softening stand on Modi (Business Standard)
Modi wows US delegation (Khaleej Times)
PM keeps open issue of a third term (rediff)
Louvre is most visited venue of 2012 (bbc)

Move over Shikaras, now relish Dal Lake on cycles

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

'Centre likely to grant Bihar 'Backward' status soon', reads the lead headline in the Times of India, adding that the new criteria will be unveiled in the coming months.
The Pioneer writes that with Defence Minister AK Antony confirming yesterday that corruption had indeed taken place in the 3,700 crore rupee VVIP helicopter deal with Augusta Westland, the government may have few options but to blacklist the Italian company and cancel the deal.
'Buddhist - Muslim Violence spreads in Myanmar', reports the Pioneer, adding that President Thein Sein had declared an emergency in Central Myanmar last Friday, in an effect to stem the sectarian violence.
The Mail Today, in an exclusive report writes, 'DGCA safety audit uncovers scary truths'. The paper says that major chinks in the aviation sector - like planes with screws missing, fuel seepage, a flight taking off without some essential certification and routine inspections not carried out due to lack of manpower were revealed.
In a boost to mobile governance, the Hindustan Times writes that soon, a smart phone application would allow users to access bank deals and government services on their phones.
'Move over Shikaras, now relish Dal Lake on cycles', reads a Tribune headline. The paper writes that this summer, visitors will be encouraged to explore Kashmir on eco friendly bicycles.
In a story about taking Indian Music to US classrooms, the Hindu says that when more than 1,000 school students at the middleton school district in the US perform hardcore Carnatac ragas, like Bangala and Nattai with ease, then it is a sign that Indian Classical Music has gone truly global.

Musharraf returns, says he wants to save Pakistan

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES
Most Newspapers this morning have front page pictures of the jubilant Indian Team that ed cricket history, by demolishing Australia and sweeping the test series with a 4-0 victory.
The other major story covered by most papers is Former Military dictator Pervez Musharraf's return to Pakistan after 4 years in self exile. Front page photographs of Musharraf have been prominently displayed by the Financial Express, the Hindu and other papers. "Musharraf returns, says he wants to save Pakistan - writes the Tribune.
Holi came with a difference to the widows and abandoned women living in Vrindavan near Mathura, writes the Hindu. According to the papers, in a departure from tradition. hundreds of widows gathered to play holi with flower petals and gulal across the five government run shelter homes with about 800 women participating in the festivals. "Holi of hope for Vrindavan widows", writes the Times of India.
The Pioneer reports that the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation is offering 1 million US dollars to anyone who can come up with a Viable proposal, for a next generation condom to help reduce unwanted pregnancies and control the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.
And finally, early to bed and early to rise may neither make you wealthy nor wise according to a new study. The University of Madrid has found out that night owls rather than early rises, who stay up late and then sleep later in the morning, scored higher in inductive reasoning, which is a good estimate of general intelligence, and is linked to innovative thinking and more prestigious occupations with higher incomes. The Times of India and Asian Age have covered the story.

Evidence shows Sajjan instigated violence against Sikhs

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES

Samajwadi Party Chief Mulayam Singh Yadav's praise for BJP leader L K Advani's observations on corruption and criticism of the Akhilesh Yadav led UP government at a public function in Lucknow gets top billing on the front pages. "Mulayam appreciates Advani 'advice' on graft, says BJP leader never lies" writes the Indian Express. The Asian Age reports "Mulayam praises Advani, scolds son".

The controversy over the arrest of suspected Hizbul Mujahideen operative Sayyed Liaquat Shah by the Delhi Police is keenly tracked in the press. The Times of India reports that the Delhi Police has rejected the Jammu and Kashmir police's contention that Shah was planning to surrender and quotes the Delhi Police as saying "Militant didn't have valid papers at the time of arrest". The Hindustan Times writes "National Investigation Agency may probe terror catch."

A Jodhpur court framing revised charges against prominent Bollywood actors in a 14 year old poaching case is prominently covered in the press. "1998 black buck case returns to haunt Salman, Saif, Tabu" reports the Hindustan Times.

Most papers cover the CBI's concluding arguments in the 1984 Anti-Sikh riots agaisnt Sajjan Kumar and five others. The Hindu quotes the CBI as saying "Evidence shows Sajjan instigated violence against Sikhs". The Indian Express reports "CBI wraps arguments: conspiracy to target Sikhs".

Reports of a secret China-Pakistan deal to build a third nuclear reactor in Pakistan's Punjab province is widely noticed. "China Pak ink secret deal on nuclear reactor' informs the Tribune.

The Asian Age and the Times of India report that Olympic boxers will now fight without head guards in a professional style scoring system starting this year.

And finally, in what is clearly a sign of the times, the Pioneer writes that single screen movie halls in Delhi facing extinction get a new lease of life as they are to get heritage status under the Master plan for Delhi, 2021.

Hazare not in favour of pardoning Sanjay Dutt

Hazare not in favour of pardoning Sanjay Dutt

Facebook, and Twitter to get timeout on content

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES

The Supreme Court upholding the death Sentence of Yakub Memon and conviction of actor Sanjay Dutt in the 1993 serial bombblasts and the Political storm generated by the CBI raid at DMK leader MK Stalin house are some of the stories covered by most papers on their front pages.
"UN resolution - India votes against Sri Lanka", writes the Statesman, and adds that of the 25 countries that voted against Lanka, only India and South Korea were from Asia.
The Tribune writes that voicing his opposition to Israel's controversial settlement activities, President Barrak Obama has said that America was deeply committed to creating an Independent, Sovereign state of Palestine.
" Aircraft Purchase freed from Red Tape" says the Times of India, and reports that Indian Carriers can hence forth buy planes as per their business plans without having to seek a nod from the civil aviation Ministry.
Highlighting the urgent need for focus on Urban Planning, the Asian Age reports that according to a report based on the 2011 government census, about 68 million Indians are living in Slums. Citing the Annual Report of the Defence Ministry 2012-2013, The Pioneer says that India is Enhancing its military capabilities to counter the growing military prowess of China.
"Face Book, and Twitter to get timeout on content" reads the headline of a Hindustan Times story which reports that as part of the proposed amendments to the IT act, Google, Yahoo!, Facebook and Twitter will now get a month's time to remove objectionable content from their websites.
And finally, in a move that breaks the Shackles of Tradition, hundreds of widows will play Holi, this year in Vrindavan  the Land of Lord Krishna as the four day Holi celebrations there, begin on March the 24th reports the Hindu.

Where the Web has failed journalism - Fortune Tech

Where the Web has failed journalism - Fortune Tech

How a toothbrush news site can get more visits than the Economist: — paidContent

How a toothbrush news site can get more visits than the Economist: More on the botnet scam — paidContent

Katju appeals to Maharashtra Governor to pardon Sanjay Dutt

NEWSPAPER  HEADLINES

    Most newspapers, this morning, write about the DMK's pullout from the UPA government and resignation of all 5 DMK Minister from the Cabinet. The other major story covered by most papers is the test firing of the submarine launched version of the supersonic BrahMos Cruise Missile.
    Chief Minister Shiela Dixit presenting an election friendly budget in the Delhi Assembly with no new taxes, is the lead story in most newspapers. 'Poll year brings tax free budget, sops', writes the Asian Age, Pioneer and the Hindu.
    Pakistan goes to the polls on May 11th, writes the Hindu in a front page story. According to the paper, this will be the just transition of the government through the ballot box under civilian watch in 65 years.
    The Times of India writes that projects worth over 7 lakh crore, which is equal to half the government spending in the current financial year, are held up, in the absence of environmental and forest clearances, land and fuel, putting a strain on the creaky infrastructure in the country, and becoming an obstacle for a high growth trajectory.
    The Maharashtra Assembly suspended 5 legislators for the rest of the year for attacking a traffic policeman within the Vidhan Bhawan, says the Pioneer. The Hindustan Times adds that the MLA's assaulted the inspector and now face the prospect of being arrested. The Asian Age and other papers have also covered this story.
    Swiss scientist in London have claimed to have developed a tiny under the skin implant, which can predict a heart attack in advance by several hours. Scientists hope that the device will be commercially available within four years.

Today is 'World Sparrow Day'

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES

The DMK pulling out of the UPA government is the lead in most papers. While the Hindustan Times headline reads, 'DMK walks out, government on thin ice', the Hindu writes, 'DMK deserts UPA ship, but won't sink it'. 'SP, BSP vow to back UPA' says the Asian Age.

The anti rape bill getting the Lok Sabha nod figures in all dailies. 'New rape laws arrive with some teeth missing' is how the Hindustan Times puts it, and gives details of the bill.

The Cabinet approving the food security bill finds place in the Statesman and the Asian Age.

Business dailies today lead with RBI cutting interest rates by 25 basis points. Loans won't get cheaper yet', warns the Economic Times adding that bankers refuse to cut lending or deposit rates.

A special CBI court summoning Ruia and Mittal in the 2G case gets front page coverage in many papers. "Telecom tycoons in spectrum soup' writes Mail Today.

'EC can't disqualify candidate over poll accounts, paid news : Govt', is a news item in the Hindu.

The same paper also writes that China is all set to bolster ties with India and Xi has detailed a five point plan.

The Times of India reports of the attack on a Congress MLA by a drunk man. 'Sheila slams cops, says no one safe in the city', writes the paper. The Pioneer reports of another case in Delhi - '8 PCR calls fail to wake up cops, injured teen dies'. When will Delhi police be more sensitive to the needs of hapless Delhi-ites?

On to more pleasant things. Spring is in the air, with flowers everywhere. A picture in the Express news line shows this and also informs that today is the Spring Equinox, with the day and night equally long.

Want to have a long and healthy life? The Hindu business line and the Times of India tell us that a daily cup of boiled Greek coffee may be the magic potion, according to a latest study.

And finally, the good old house sparrow which is becoming rarer by the day, has been declared the state bird of Delhi. And today is 'World Sparrow Day' report a few papers.

International Happiness Day: Animals to stare at until you feel happy | Metro News

International Happiness Day: Animals to stare at until you feel happy | Metro News

UN declares world happiness day - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)

UN declares world happiness day - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)

India has emerged as the world's largest importer of arms

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

The Supreme Court extending its direction restraining the Italian ambassador from leaving the country till further orders dominates the front pages of most papers. "Italian envoy has no immunity, cannot leave India rules Supreme Court" reports the Tribune.
Union Steel minister Beni Prasad Verma's remarks against Samajawadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav are widely noticed in the press. "Beni lands Congress in a soup yet again: accuses ally Mulayam Singh Yadav of backing terrorists" writes the Times of India. The Hindu reports the Samajwadi Party as saying "Sack Beni Prasad for remarks against Mulayam".
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's meetings with the Prime Minister, the Finance Minister and the Planning Commission Deputy Chairman regarding his demand for a special status for Bihar is keenly noticed in the papers. "Congress may appoint a panel for special status" reports the Hindustan Times. The Indian Express quotes Mr Nitish Kumar as saying after the meetings, "Bihar status battle in a decisive phase."
The Times of India, in a special story, highlights information given by the government in the Lok Sabha that 120 soldiers, airmen and sailors commit suicide every year due to stress.
Many papers like the Asian Age, the Times of India, the Hindustan Times and the Pioneer take note of new published data on international arms transfers according to which India has emerged as the world's largest importer of arms while China has become among the top five suppliers of arms.
The Hindustan Times in a front page story writes that British researchers have cautioned that many herbal medicines used widely in India and China contain toxic acids which increase risks of kidney failures and even cancer.
And finally, Malyalam poetess Sugathakumari being conferred the prestigious Saraswati Samman 2012 for her poetry collection Manalezuthu or The Writing on the Sand is widely noticed in the press today.

The State of the News Media 2013

The State of the News Media 2013

A first in Pakistan : National Assembly completes full term

NEWSPAPER  HEADLINES

Chief Minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar - sounding the 2014 election bugle at a massive rally in the national capital yesterday, is a top story in the Press today. "Nitish takes on Modi; hints at anti-Congress, non BJP alliance" reads a headline in Times of India. Mail Today says that Nitish positioned his party as open to supporting any alliance which agreed to his demands for giving 'special status' to Bihar.

"A first in Pakistan : National Assembly completes full term" - reads the headline of a story in Tribune which says that Pakistani leadership continue to be divided on choosing a caretaker PM to oversee the polls.

An exclusive story in the Pioneer claims that Union Petroleum Minister Veerappa Moily could be in the dock for raising funds from a corporate giant in 2012 for his family controlled. 'Kisan Sabha Trust'.

Hindustan Times reports that the Government's decision to reduce the age of consent for sex - to 16 years, will strip those in the 16-18 age bracket of safeguards against sexual crimes.

A request has been made by Delhi Deputy Secretary (Home) to transfer Om Prakash Chautala, his son Ajay Chautala and 53 fellow convicts - in the 'Teacher's Recruitment Scam' out of Tihar Jail to any prison in Haryana. 'The case pertains to another state so why should they be in Tihar', questions the request reports the Indian Express.

To check the problems posed by water hyacinth at the Harike Wildlife Sanctuary, officials have initiated a programme for local residence to make handicraft items - such as doormats, cushions, file covers, baskets and hats, to help eliminate the weed from water bodies, reports the Tribune.

Dhawan's ton World's fastest on test debut

TODAY'S NEWSPAPERS

27 year old Delhi cricket player Shikhar Dhawan's unconquered 185 in yesterday's match against Australia at Mohali finds front page coverage in most Papers, along with photographs. ''Dhawan, the Demolition Man", headlines the Tribune. "Dhawan's ton World's fastest on test debut" writes the Asian Age.

The UPA government finalising its stand on the US sponsored resolution against Sri Lanka, over alleged violation of ethnic Tamils - at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva is also highlighted by the Press. "Government under DMK heat, may vote against Lanka", is a Sunday Times headline.

The Hindu writes - ' Fearing a backlash after it refused to send back two marines facing trial in India for killing two Indian Fisherman in Kerala, Italy has advised its nationals to be 'vigilant and cautious'.

The Financial Express reports that after the money laundering allegations by an online news portal against 3 top banks in India, the HDFC bank has suspended 20 officials concerned till investigation are complete, the ICICI bank 18 and the Axis Bank suspended 16 employees.

The Hindu reports that the Shahi Imam of Delhi's Jama Masjid, Maulana Syed Ahmed Bukhari, has severed his year-long turbulent relationship with the Samajwadi Party, sending in the resignation of his nominees. He said Muslims were still waiting to get their due in the SP government.

Hindustan Times writes that Tihar's probe into Delhi gang rape accused Ram Singh's alleged suicide has found three jail officials, including a warden, guilty of dereliction of duty.

And finally, Hindustan Times informs us that Personal Genomics - the science of decoding the genetic map of individuals to help identify future health challenges - is fast catching the public eye in India, where in a saliva based test can predict future health problems.

Pakistan cannot bleed us and shake hands

Parliament rejecting the resolution passed by the Pakistan National Assembly on the execution of Afzal Guru is prominently covered on the front pages of most dailies.

New revelations regarding the recent fidayeen attack on the CRPF in Srinagar are highlighted in many papers. The Tribune, quoting police sources associated with the interrogation of a Pakistani militant writes, "Fidayeen attack 'revenge' against Afzal hanging". The Indian Express in a front page story writes that a surrendered militant who has been a high profile asset for several security agencies helped set up the fidayeen attack.

Army Chief General Bikram Singh's speech at a conclave organised by a prominent media house is widely noticed. The Asian Age reports him as saying "Time not ripe to lift Armed Forces Special Power Act". The Mail Today quotes him as saying "Pakistan cannot bleed us and shake hands".

Most papers report that the government has decided to put on hold the proposed changes to the UPSC civil Services exam format. "Pro-English UPSC changes on hold" reports the Times of India. Highlighting the opposition to these changes in the Lok Sabha, the Pioneer writes "MPs foil UPSC revamp plan".

In a special front page story, the Times of India reports that a Group of Ministers or GOM has decided not to raise the creamy layer bar of an annual income of four and a half lakh rupees for OBCs to be eligible for quotas in jobs and education.

The Asian Age in a front page special highlights the fact that the Pakistan Peoples Party led government will become the first elected government since the country was formed to complete its constitutional five year term today.

And finally, some encouraging news from the world of medicine...the Times of India cites a research study published in a medical journal to inform us that early diagnosis and rapid treatment of HIV patients maybe enough to achieve a functional cure.

Anji Reddy

Dr Reddy’s Laboratories founder Anji Reddy passes 

K Anji Reddy, promoter and chairman Dr Reddy's Lab, passes away

Anji Reddy 'would never give up in difficult times'

Dr Reddy’s Laboratories founder Anji Reddy dies at 72

Anji Reddy passes away

K Anji Reddy: “I want to build a company that’d last 500 years”

Early detection of 'Glaucoma' is key to preventing the rampant eye disease

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES

On the Italian Marines issue, the unprecedented action of the Supreme Court restraining the Italian Ambassador from leaving India without its permission is duly highlighted in today's papers. The Hindu top headlines read "Supreme Court bars envoy from leaving India without its nod".

Hindustan Times writes that India has asked its Ambassador Designate to Italy Basant Gupta to defer his journey to Rome as he could face the same treatment in Italy.

The Business Line of the Hindu reports: Bringing cheer to the automobile and infrastructure companies, Finance Minister P Chidambaram announced the roll-out of the "Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission-II", which is expected to give a big push to urban infrastructure development.

Newspapers covered the story of allegations made by online portal Cobrapost which had carried-out a sting operation that allegedly revealed how India's top three private banks - ICICI, HDFC and The Axis bank were helping customers launder black money by opening benami accounts. The Asian Age reports that the three banks have instituted investigations into the allegations.

The European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN) has said that the new particle discovered last July is 'looking like the God particle' or the elusive Higgs Boson'. Quoting a CERN official, the Times of India writes that a lot more data will be studied over the next few months to make a precise announcement.

Hindustan Times reports that early detection of 'Glaucoma' is key to preventing the rampant eye disease, which is the third leading cause of blindness in India. Preventive checkups, therefore, are a must once a year - after hitting 45, reports the paper.

3-year-calm shattered in Srinagar as fidayeen kill 5 CRPF Jawans

Indian media putting pressure on Government of India over Italian marines, says BBC

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES

Yesterday's Fidayeen attack on CRPF personnel in the Kashmir Valley, is highlighted by the Press. "3-year-calm shattered in Srinagar as fidayeen kill 5 CRPF Jawans", headlines the Times of India. The paper adds that this killing may put withdrawl of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act on the back burner.

The top headline in the Indian Express reads, "After food, UPA proposes homes for rural poor". The "Right to Homestead Bill", another flagship programme of the UPA government promising homes, has been readied and will be circulated among ministries and states on March 18th.

"Bergoglio of Argentina is the New Pope", writes the Hindu. He was elected in a surprise choice to be the new leader of a troubled Roman Catholic Church. Calling for brotherhood, he said he came "from the other end of the world".

"Italy's action not acceptable, says Prime Minister", reports Hindustan Times. Dr. Manmohan Singh warned Italy of 'consequences', if it did not stand by its commitment to send back two marines accused of shooting two Indian fisherman.

"RBI may cut rates", headlines HT Business. The paper adds, "Growth is key - RBI governor D Subbarao is poised to side step inflation to reduce ratio by 0.25%.

The Financial Express writes that India, the world's second largest rice, wheat and cotton producer, may get normal monsoon rainfall this year boosting planting and exports.

Tribal farmers in Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh have adopted an innovative, effective and cheap irrigation technique to grow vegetables, using discarded plastic saline bottles. The base of the bottle is removed, filled with water and the nozzle made to touch the ground near the plant root, thereby, supplying continuous moisture to the plant.

And Finally, Times of India tells us that the humble Karela has emerged as a giant slayer of pancreatic cancer cells, according to a University of Colorado study. Bitter gourd or Karela juice has the ability to cut off energy sources to pancreatic cancer cells, eventually killing them off.

PM upset with Italy, envoy may get marching orders

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES

The diplomatic standoff between India and Italy over Italy's decision to not send back the two marines who were facing a trial in India for the killing of two Indian fishermen gets top billing in the papers today. "PM upset with Italy, envoy may get marching orders" reads the front page lead in the Times of India.
The autopsy report on the death of Ram Singh, the main accused in the December 16 Delhi gangrape case, is highlighted in all the papers. "Postmortem report confirms Ram Singh committed suicide" writes the Statesman. In the wake of Ram Singh's death, the Hindustan Times reports "The remaining four accused in the Delhi gangrape shifted to separate cells with CCTV cameras for round the clock surveillance".
In a front page special story the Indian Express writes that from the details of lakhs of its investors which the Sahara group submitted to stock market regulator SEBI, the latter has found only 68 of them to be genuine.
Investigations into the drug haul case in Punjab in which boxer Vijender Singh's name has cropped up are prominently noticed in the press. "Police to move court for boxers samples" writes the Pioneer in the backdrop of Vijender Singh earlier refusing to give samples of his hair and blood. The Tribune reports on its front page "Police alleges Vijender met key accused Kahlon several times".
The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board's objection to the move to install full body scanners at airports is reported in the Indian Express. The paper writes that the nuclear safety regulator says that x rays passing through passengers bodies expose them to harmful radiation.
The death of painter Ganesh Pyne is prominently noticed in the press. The Hindustan Times describes him as "A philosopher and reclusive minstrel". In its obituary, the Hindu calls him the "Boatman of the Bengal School".
And finally, the Statesman and the Businessline report that solar powered lamps or "Little Suns" will light up homes in interior parts of Western Rajasthan.

Car sales see sharpest fall in 12 years, skid 26% in Feb

Newspaper Headlines

Ram Singh, the main accused in the Delhi gangrape case, found hanging in Tihar, is the lead in almost all papers. 'Suicide or Murder?' asks the Times of India. 'Family alleges murder' writes the Tribune. 'Tihar struggles to explain the death - many questions still remain' says the Indian Express.
Boxer Vijender Singh being questioned by Pubjab Police for his role in the recent drug seizure case figures prominently in many dailies. 'Vijender refuses to give blood and hair samples' reports the Tribune.
Four Australian cricketers dropped from the third test for indiscipline makes front page news. Mail Today calls it 'bizarre axing', 'Oz players leave in a huff' writes the Pioneer.
Kerala police securing Bitti Mohanty's custody for ten days is reported by Hindustan Times. 'Bitti to be taken to Rajasthan now' says the Asian Age.
Urban voters in Karnataka giving a resounding victory to the opposition Congress in the local civic body polls yesterday, finds place in the Statesman and Hindustan Times.
India getting 4 medals in the Asian Cycling Championships, including 2 silver, is reported on the sports page of the Pioneer.
'Car sales see sharpest fall in 12 years, skid 26% in Feb' informs the Hindu business line.
'Wrong number - Sims on fake identity' under that headline the Times of India writes that 2800 crore rupee penalty on telecom companies for 19 lakh fake sims'.
Love your pet? Sure, we all do. Spa treatments - yes, once in a while. But a TV Channel, primarily for dogs? That precisely is what an Israeli Cable TV company has done to keep pooches entertained. 'Israel TV has gone to the dogs, literally!' writes the Times of India.

NIS expels Ram Singh, Vijender may be quizzed

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES

Olympian boxer Vijender Singh's photograph appears on the front pages of most papers this morning with various headlines in connection with the massive drug haul. 'Vijender to be grilled by cops within 72 hours', writes the Hindustan Times. 'NIS expels Ram Singh, Vijender may be quizzed', says the Tribune.

The Times of India in a front page story writes that the River Yamuna is dirtier than ever, even after the government has spent 6 thousand 500 crore rupees, 19 years after the Supreme Court first scrutinized pollution in the Yamuna. The paper further adds that Delhi's drinking water is contaminated with tonnes of Industrial waste from Industries located upstream who deposit untreated waste into the river leading to heavy metals in the water.

In a related story, most papers write about Yamuna activists planning a March into Jantar Mantar today, demanding that the river be cleaned up. 'Save Yamuna Rally to enter Delhi today,' is the Statesman headline. 'Avoid Mathura road towards Faridabad', writes Mail Today.

In a significant archeological discovery, the remains of an ancient city that may be 2,500 years old have been found at Tari ghat, 30 kilometers from Raipur in Chattisgarh. According to the Asian Age, the ruins of the city exposed on the surface indicate that the settlement dates back to the 3rd Century B.C.

'India first', is Modi's new mantra writes the Hindu. According to the paper, at a video conference organised by the overseas friends of the BJP, Mr. Modi said, he had a simple definition for secularism : India first. The Indian Express, the Times of India, Mail Today and other papers report that Modi also said that people will forgive mistakes if a government serves them well.

Finally, chewing gum can help you stay focused for longer, on tasks that require continuous monitoring claims a study conducted by the Cardiff University in London. The Hindustan Times has reported this story. 'Chew to concentrate', writes the Pioneer reporting the study published in the British journal of Psychology.

Ram Singh claims both boxers took drugs

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

Many papers have picture of the Pakistan Prime Minister, Raja Parvez Ashraf at the dargah in Ajmer. "Khurshid hosts Pak PM as Ajmer protests soldier's beheading" writes The Pioneer. "Chill in Indo-Pak ties persists, no substantive talks with Ashraf' is The Tribune headline.
The arrest of former Odisha DGP's rapist son is the lead story in The Hindustan Times and Times of India. 'Bitti Mohanty held in Kerala after 6 years on the run' is The Times of India headline. The Hindustan Times calls it 'the curious case of Bitti Mohanty' and gives details of how he changed his identity and was working in a bank in Kannur.
'Vijender may be in trouble, says The Statesman, of the Olympic medal winner, who is at the centre of a drug controversy. 'Ram Singh claims both boxers took drugs' adds the paper. 'Ugly twist in drug haul - prime accused attempts suicide' writes The Pioneer.
A shower that beats jet lag? A U.S airline unveiled the 'Phonton Shower' recently, which claims to wash away the effects of air travel, writes The Business line of The Hindu.
The same paper reports that Amish Tripathi, author of the Shiv trilogy has joined Chetan Bhagat in the million plus league. 'Shiva showers this author with sales, cash' in the headline.
Are you a pet lover? It'll be difficult to match Pratima Devi's love of dogs. The lady who lives in a shanty has 60 dogs, says that even if she has to go hungry, she feeds 5kg rice and meat to her pets, writes The Indian Express.

Gujarat lawyers openly challenge SC collegium - say seniority, merit and integrity were overlooked while appointing judges

Newspaper Headlines

The Prime Minister's reply to the debate on the Motion of Thanks on the President's Address to the Joint sitting of both the house of Parliament, has been reported by many dailies today. "PM's new found tone and tenor leaves Jaitley stunned - Singh's Aggro decimates BJP", opines the Mail Today. In a related story the Hindustan Times reports, "Back to high growth in two-three years, says PM".

In significant news, the Hindustan Times reports that the Government is set to seek Parliament approval to scrap a two - decade - old procedure for the appointment of judges to the Supreme Court and High Courts and give politicians a role in the process. In a related story the Pioneer adds, "Gujarat lawyers openly challenge SC collegium - say seniority, merit and integrity were overlooked while appointing judges".

The Implication of Olympian Boxer Vijender in a heroin bust has been reported prominently by most major dailies. "Olympic medallist Vijender hit by heroin ring link charges", reports The Times of India, while the Hindustan Times adds, "Named in heroin bust, Vijender says he is clean".

According to the Indian Express, in a move to assuage states opposed to the creation of National Counter Terrorism Centre, the Government is all set to drop the contentious provision of search, seizure and arrest from its current proposal.

The Hindu says that a week before Sri Lanka's human rights record comes up for review before a UN panel, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has advocated direct talks between Colombo and Tamil leadership.

Many dailies have also reported on the opposition to the Private visit of the Pakistani Prime Minister to Ajmer Sharif. The Pioneer reports, "Ajmer Sharif snubs Pak PM's visit over soldiers' beheading".

In a front page story the Asian Age says that World shares hit their highest level since June, 2008 and the dollar touched a fresh three and half year high against the yen on Friday.

And finally, the Hindu informs that the Earth is on track to becoming the hottest it has been at any time in the past 11.3 millennia, a period spanning the history of human civilization.

Cabinet clears bill to penalise delay in services

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

Most newspapers this morning headline the Cabinet nod to the bill ensuring time bound services to citizens. The bill, passed by the Union Cabinet on Thursday will make it mandatory for all departments with a direct interface with citizens to have a facilitation centre, writes the Hindustan Times in a front page story. "Cabinet clears bill to penalise delay in services", writes the Indian Express.
On the International Women's Day today, most newspapers highlight the plight of women with mid page articles on the issues of women today. The Times of India headlines the fact that 9 out of 10 women in the city feel unsafe. "Every 2 hours, a women in Delhi is molested or raped", writes the Hindustan Times.
Mail today writes that the Central Bureau of Investigation is all set to name former Air Chief S. P. Tyagi and 10 others in the agency's version of the First Information Report in its probe into the Augusta Westland chopper deal.
Government to hike old age pensions, writes the Hindustan Times. According to the paper, pensions could be indexed to inflation on the pattern of MG-NREGA wages. "Consensus over universal pension linked to inflation index, says Jairam Ramesh", writes the Hindu.
The processed meat like bacon and sausages on your plate, or those steaming hot pies are increasing your chances of premature death from cancer and heart disease, says a study conducted by the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition. The researchers say, salting, smoking and curing meat give rise to carcinogens and these meat are also high in cholesterol and saturated fat. The Times of India and Hindustan Times have covered this story.

TIME's 30 Must-See Tumblr Blogs

ShortFormBlog — TIME's 30 Must-See Tumblr Blogs

We'll make it again, combative PM tells Rajnath

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh's reply to the debate on the motion of thanks to the Presidents address dominates the front pages. Highlighting his confidence about the 2014 elections the Hindu reports, "We'll make it again, combative PM tells Rajnath".
In the backdrop of recent incidents of police brutality on a woman in Punjab and contractual teachers in Bihar, the Supreme Court's suo moto intervention is prominently noticed by most papers.
In a front page exclusive, the Hindustan Times reports that power companies in Delhi will now have to pay fines upto a 100 rupees a day or more for delays in attending to consumer complaints like burnt meters or transformer snags.
The Supreme Court's ruling that a soldier who suffers injuries while on casual leave will be entitled to disability benefits is highlighted in the Tribune.
In an interesting front page special story, the Indian Express reports that two Muslim students have won all the three Sanskrit medals in Gujarat University.
And finally, the Times of India writes that advances in surgery have made it possible to reconstruct a hand even if it is crushed or mutilated.

Work the problem: How to look at your own stories more objectively

Work the problem: How to look at your own stories more objectively

At 12 Neha Ramu Recorded Incredible Score in Mensa IQ Test

At 12 Neha Ramu Recorded Incredible Score in Mensa IQ Test

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

Rahul Gandhi's interaction with Congress MPs in Parliament yesterday where he offered a glimpse into his political views, is highlighted by the Press. The Hindustan Times top headline reads, "Rahul says Party First, being PM not priority". He said his ideal is Mahatma Gandhi and he believed in 'Nishkam Karma' - work without expectation of reward.

Tuesday's arrest of former Maldivian President Mohammad Nasheed - amid continuing confrontation with President Waheed in the run up to Presidential polls later this year, is also highlighted. "Nasheed arrested without warrant", headlines the Hindu. "In a snub to India, Maldive arrests ex-President Nasheed", headlines the Times of India.

The Comptroller and Auditor General Report, tabled in Parliament yesterday, pointed out flaws in implementation of the UPA's 'Farm Loan Waiver Scheme'. "Sloppy loan waiver edges out deserving farmers", headlines the Hindu.

The Asian Age writes, "China announced a steep double digit hike in defence spending and experts claim the actual figures are far higher than those published, with China now spending nearly three times as much as India on defence.

"US honour for Nirbhaya", headlines the Times of India. First lady Michelle Obama and Secretary of State John Kerry will honour Nirbhaya with a posthumous 'Woman of Courage Award' for her bravery in the face of a brutal assault.

And finally, Times of India informs that a 12 year old Indian girl, Neha Ramu, who migrated to the UK along with her doctor parents, has scored a score of 162 in one of the worlds toughest IQ tests, which makes her 'smarter' than Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking, who are both estimated to have an IQ of 160.

More people dying of lifestyle diseases , than infections.

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

Ringing warning bells about modern day lifestyle choices, the Hindustan Times says "India staring at killer lifestyle epidemic" - "more people dying of lifestyle diseases , than infections."

The Pakistan prime Minister Raja Parvej Ashraf likely visit to India this Saturday has been reported by most dailies today. News reports say that this is a significant development as the visit comes at a time when ties between the two neighbor have hit a rough patch.

Reporting on a break through in HIV Treatment, The Times of India writes " Team of US Docs claims to have cured infant of HIV", reporting that the disease could be eliminated among children.

" 5 Million jobs lost to sagging economy" writes the Mail Today. In an exclusive, the paper says that not only is the India Growth story being derailed with each passing day, but crucial jobs in the manufacturing back bone have been shed.

Irom Sharmila faces trail for suicide bid," says the Asian Age, reporting on a Delhi Court framing attempted Suicide charges against Irom Sharmila Chanu, who has been on hunger strike for over 12 years demanding repeal of the Controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act from the North East.

In a major Blow to wildlife conservation in India, the Pioneer writes that data obtained from the wildlife protection society of India reveals that in the first 2 months of this year, 92 leopards have been killed, of which 36 fell to poaching.

And finally the Times of India writes that although Women's brains are 8% smaller than Men's, they are more efficient. A survey revealed that women outperformed men in inductive reasoning and some numerical skills. They were also better at keeping track of a changing situation while men did better at spatial intelligence.

Congress destroying India : Modi

NEWSPAPERS HEADLINES

The front pages of most newspapers are splashed with the stories of the BJP's National Council meet. Under the headline, 'Congress destroying India : Modi', the Pioneer says, Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi called Congress a termite, and tore into the ruling party's first family for compromising on the interest of the nation to protect its own supremacy. The Tribune says, Congress took exception to Modi's remarks against the party's leadership saying the language used by Modi does not behove any leader of national stature.

The Hindu reports that the prestigious Wharton India Economic Forum has cancelled the proposed address by Narendra Modi following opposition from some stakeholders.

Indian doctors working in the UK have sued the country's top regulatory body, saying the confirmation exam for independent practice was biased against international trainees, with 65.3 per cent international graduates failing in their first attempt against 9.9 per cent Britons, reports the Times of India.

The Statesman reports that a government panel has found irregularities in the approval of 38 drugs without clinical trials on Indians, with nine of them cleared by the drug controller without reference to any expert, saying the exemptions appear to be due to pressure from pharma companies.

The Times of India writes that with exorbitantly priced medicines, making treatment inaccessible for many companies, are reaching out to patients to finance the purchase of their preion medicines.

And finally, scientists claim to have developed a revolutionary spinal implant that allows crippled patients to walk again and relieves pain in spinal injury patients, reports the Times of India.

How Facebook Improves Memory | TIME.com

How Facebook Improves Memory | TIME.com

Mainstream media meltdown!

Mainstream media meltdown!

Modi first among equal at BJP meet

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES (3.3.13)

BJP national council meet figures on the front pages of most dailies today. Mail Today shows BJP leaders giving the Gujarat CM a standing ovation. 'CM for PM clamour grows at party conclave' writes the Hindustan Times. 'Modi first among equal at BJP meet' says The Pioneer.

Two policemen shot dead in Kashmir makes headline in many papers. 'Militants target unarmed constables on beat duty in Handwara' reads The Tribune headline.

The murder of two siblings in Delhi aged 5 and 7 years figures in many dailies. 'Siblings killed in crime capital' writes Mail Today. This follows on the heels of the rape of a seven year old a couple of days ago. 'Family alleges police laxity' writes the Hindustan Times.

Violence over Delhi child rape

Newspaper Headlines

In yet another shameful incident, a seven year old student was sexually assaulted, inside a Municipal school in the outer Delhi area, report almost all newspapers on their front page. The incident triggered violent protests by locals who were cane-charged by the police. The Asian Age covers it under the headline, "Violence over Delhi child rape".

The Finance Minister's proposal to set up a women's bank, will give a boost to financial inclusion reports the Times of India, adding that it will provide a sense of comfort for a segment of women that finds going to a bank intimidating.

In order to check frauds, the RBI has asked banks to impose monetary limit for international transactions on credit and debit cards and refrain from issuing cards with global access unless specifically sought by the customers, reports the Statesman.

The Hindustan Times front page headline states - "Capital's green cover under siege". Elaborating, the paper writes, Delhi's green cover continues to bleed because of weak enforcement which stipulates strict penal provisions for anyone harming trees.

The Indian Express writes that the Election Commission has decided to improve the quality of the electors photo-identity card (EPIC), with new cards that are tamper-proof, look like a PAN card and carry a colour photo of the voter.

PC nets big fish

NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

The front pages of all newspapers are replete with the stories of Union Budget 2013. Under the headline, 'PC nets big fish', the Times of India says, the budget has soaked the rich, made a splash for women, and sought to shore up investments. The Pioneer writes that in the honour of the Delhi gangrape victim, the government will set up the Nirbhaya fund, which will support initiatives to keep women safe and secure. The Financial Express says that despite an expenditure spurt, the Finance Minister has kept fiscal deficit in check and cut welfare schemes while mopping up extra from disinvestment, corporations and super-rich. The Indian Express says that the budget offers the biggest sop to first-home buyers proposing a one-time benefit of 30,000 rupees by way of an additional deduction of one lakh rupees towards interest on a home loan.
Paving the way for his trial, the Juvenile Justice Board has charged the 17-year-old minor accused in the Nirbhaya gangrape and murder case with murder, gang rape, kidnapping, unnatural offences, attempt to murder, destruction of evidence and conspiracy reports the Times of India.
The Asian Age reports that automatic spending cuts in the United States could impact the visa processing time taken by US missions in countries like India and China.
To ensure safety of passengers, no cab driver without a biometric enrollment will be allowed to operate from the T3 terminal of IGI Airport says the Pioneer.
Now you can attach a GPS pet-tracking device to your pet's collar and get an immediate alarm on your smartphone the moment it leaves an area you have defined while flipping a switch will turn on an integrated light to help find your pet in the dark, writes Hindustan Times.

Union budget 2013: finance minister offers growth tablet

Union budget 2013: finance minister offers growth tablet
NEWSPAPER HEADLINES (28.2.2013)

Most papers, this morning, speculate on the Union Budget presentation in Parliament. 'Pre poll budget may put more cash in your hand', writes the Times of India. 'Survey for subsidy cut, wider tax base', says the Asian Age. 'Survey claims downturn is over, economy is looking up', writes the Hindu. 'Another feel good survey will it be for real this time?', is the Economic Times headline.

The Times of India in a detailed report writes about a blow to the 2G probe main accused A. Raja. According to the paper, the Attorney General GE Vahanvati challenged in a special CBI Court, the former Telecom Minister A. Raja's claim that the implementation of the first come first serve policy was approved by the law officer as well as the then External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee.

The Pioneer in an exclusive story writes about the Managing Director of the Indian Farmers fertilizer Co-operative society transferring prime property that belonged to IFFCO, located in the posh Hauz Khaz enclave to his name. According to the headline, the Managing Director disregarded all rules and abused his power as MD to become the absolute owner of the property worth over 100 crore rupees.

Varun Gandhi was acquitted by the local Court in Pilibhit district in a hate speech case lodged against him during the Lok Sabha elections in 2009. The Hindu, the Indian Express and most other papers have reported this story.

And finally, the Times of India, Mail Today, the Asian Age and most other papers write about the Australian mining entrepreneur and Tycoon, Clive palmer, unveiling a blueprint for Titanic II, a modern replica of the doomed Ocean liner, with modifications keeping in line the current safety rules and ship building practices. Mr. Palmer hoped that construction would begin later in 2013, and the recreation of the legendary trans-atlantic voyage will begin in 2016