Sheen returning to Aspen court in domestic violence case

Sheen returning to Aspen in domestic violence case

ASPEN, Colo. – Actor Charlie Sheen is returning to court in Aspen on domestic violence charges stemming from a Christmas Day dispute with his wife.
An arraignment is scheduled for Monday afternoon.
Sheen is accused of putting a knife to the throat of Brooke Mueller Sheen while they vacationed in …. Original source  : Sheen returning to Aspen court in domestic violence case.

Taliban must produce Hakimullah’s video to prove that he is alive: Malik

LAHORE – Pakistan’s Interior Minister Rehman Malik has challenged the Pakistan Taliban by saying that the terror organisation must produce Hakimullah Mehsud’s video to prove that he is still alive.

The News quoted Malik as saying that Hakimullah Mehsud had died of wounds inflicted in a US drone aircraft attack … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Taliban must produce Hakimullah’s video to prove that he is alive: Malik.

Pak intelligence calls for Afghan border to be closed

LONDON – Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has called for tighter control of the Afghan border by NATO troops to stop Taliban fighters from escaping its operations in the North West Frontier. ajor General Athar Abbas, the director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), claimed …. Original article  : Pak intelligence calls for Afghan border to be closed.

Gurshan Singh’s memorial service to be held in Punjab

KOTKAPURA – A memorial service for three-year-old Gurshan Singh, who was found dead near Australia’s Melbourne airport on March 4, will be held in his native village in Punjab’s Faridkot district on Monday.

Earlier on Sunday, Gurshan’s body was brought back from Australia and taken to his native … Original source on Gaea Times at : Gurshan Singh’s memorial service to be held in Punjab.

Gujarat ATS nabs Hizbul Mujahideen militant

AHMEDABAD – The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) have taken into their custody a suspected militant of Hizbul Mujahideen terror outfit.

Acting on intelligence inputs, a raid was conducted and Bashir Baba, a resident of Srinagar was arrested. Bashir had come to Ahmedabad for …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Gujarat ATS nabs Hizbul Mujahideen militant.

Middle of the road has partisan potholes as Dodd seeks consensus on financial rules

Dodd seeks difficult consensus on financial rules
WASHINGTON – Combining Obama administration and Republican priorities, the leading Senate author of a sweeping rewrite of the nation’s financial regulations is looking for consensus with a proposal that neither side of the political spectrum is ready to embrace.
Sen. Christopher Dodd, the chairman of the Senate Banking …. Original article  : Middle of the road has partisan potholes as Dodd seeks consensus on financial rules.

Michael Lewis’s “The Big Short”

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- Michael Lewis’s new book “The Big Short” which is subtitled as ‘Inside the Doomsday Machine” indicates that all was not so well with the flourishing Wall Street money making for the last few years before 2008’s big Wall Street crash, which led to trillions of dollars of loss. Michael Lewis’s new book … Read more >>.

Advanced Air Defence interceptor missile test fails

BALASORE – The Advanced Air Defence (AAD) interceptor missile failed to take off during a planned launch from the Integrated Test Range at Wheeler Island off Orissa coast due to some coordination problem on Monday.

The AAD interceptor missile is capable of destroying any …. Original article  : Advanced Air Defence interceptor missile test fails.

Visiting Bangladesh Army Chief receives Guard of Honour in New Delhi

NEW DELHI – Bangladesh Army Chief General Mohammed Abdul Mubeen, who is on a five-day visit to India, was given a Guard of Honour in the national capital on Monday.

Earlier on Sunday, General Mubeen, who arrived with his wife and a four-member army delegation, was … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Visiting Bangladesh Army Chief receives Guard of Honour in New Delhi.

Brit travel agents offer Auschwitz tour with booze and strippers

MELBOURNE – Travel agents in Britain are enticing customers by offering them stag parties, a pub-crawl, a visit to a strip club, followed by a tour of the Auschwitz concentration camp, it has emerged.

The tour’s pub-crawl involved visiting some 300 bars and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Brit travel agents offer Auschwitz tour with booze and strippers.

North Korean Supreme Leader’s secret four billion dollar ‘emergency fund’ revealed

PYONGYANG – The Supreme Leader of North Korea, Kim Jong-il, reportedly has a four billion dollar ‘emergency fund’ hidden in European banks’ secret accounts to utilize if he has to escape in the event of a military invasion by forces from the United …. Original source  : North Korean Supreme Leader’s secret four billion dollar ‘emergency fund’ revealed.

University of Houston forms partnership with Banaras Hindu University

NEVADA – The University of Houston in Texas (USA) and Institute of Technology of Banaras Hindu University in Varanasi (India) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for cooperation in instruction and academic exchange.

This new relationship will reportedly include joint education programs at the graduate level, exchange …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : University of Houston forms partnership with Banaras Hindu University.

India to tighten security at its missions: Krishna

NEW DELHI – External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Monday said India was awaiting a report before providing additional security to Indians in Afghanistan and was tightening security at all its overseas missions in the wake of terror threats to this country’s assets abroad.

“We have spoken to the Afghan government. We are awaiting a final security [..] Read the original article: here.

NATO: 1 killed in early-morning attack on Bagram Air Field

NATO: 1 killed in attack on Bagram Air Field

KABUL – NATO says one person was killed in an early morning rocket attack on Bagram Air Field north of the Afghan capital of Kabul.
A NATO spokesman said Monday the base received some rounds of indirect fire, but disclosed no details of the attack.
Abdullah Adil, the police …. Source article  : NATO: 1 killed in early-morning attack on Bagram Air Field.

Teaching is my mission: India-trained Bangladeshi dancer

DHAKA – A scholarship from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and training at the Rabindra Bharati University in Kolkata has made Bangladeshi classical dancer Arpita Shome resolve that she will pass on the art to others.

“When I returned to Bangladesh from Kolkata in September, 2008 I came back as a different person. Now …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sri Lankan Tamil party to adopt Gandhi-style campaign for equal rights

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka’s main Tamil party, the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), has vowed to launch a Gandhi-style civil disobedience campaign to press for equal rights for the community.

In a manifesto for parliamentary elections on April 8, the TNA also …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

UPA Govt. backs off, avoids introducing Nuke Liability Bill

NEW DELHI – The expected face-off between the UPA Government and the Opposition over the former’s proposed Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Bill has fizzled out with the UPA saying it will not table the Bill that provides for compensation in case of a nuclear accident for … Read : UPA Govt. backs off, avoids introducing Nuke Liability Bill.

US National Intelligence Director to visit Islamabad

ISLAMABAD – America’s National Intelligence Director Dennis C Blair is set to arrive in Islamabad to kickstart discussions on a Pak-US strategic dialogue.

Dennis will hold meetings with top Pakistani officials, including Inter-Services Intelligence Director General Shuja Pasha.
The Daily Times quoted diplomatic sources …. Read the original article  : US National Intelligence Director to visit Islamabad.

Pakistani airports placed under severe terror threat: Sources

LAHORE – Pakistan intelligence have been placed under severe terrorist threat following indications that Taliban fighters may attempt to hijack aircrafts in the near future.

Pakistani security forces have so far foiled several bids to smuggle weapons onto aircrafts, the Daily Times reports.
On March 10, the authorities arrested …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Two Al-Qaeda leaders killed in Yemeni airstrike

SAANA – At least two Al-Qaeda leaders have been reportedly killed in an airstrike launched by the Yemeni Air Force in its Abyan Province on Sunday.

In a statement released by Yemen’s embassy in Washington, the Air Force had struck at an Al-Qaeda hideout ahead of a likely terror attack.
“Al-Qaeda … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Two Al-Qaeda leaders killed in Yemeni airstrike.

President Barack Obama returns from Ohio (Barack Obama, Obama Return)

President Barack Obama returns from Ohio, to pushed congressional Democrats to vote for an overhaul of the U.S. medical system as he focused on the plight of Americans without health insurance. The trip was the president’s third in a week to discuss health care reform, and all three have been to electoral swing states for … Read more >>.

ISRO shootout not a terror act: Chidambaram

BANGALORE – Union Home Minister P Chidambaram on Tuesday said the shoot out outside the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)’s Byalalu Centre did not look like a terrorist attack.

“There is not threat to ISRO. It is an amateurish attack,” said Chidambaram, adding that the Central Government has asked for ISRO security to be monitored properly.
A …. Source  : ISRO shootout not a terror act: Chidambaram.

Security beefed up at Vaishno Devi

KATRA – Security has been beefed up at the famous Vaishno Devi Temple near Jammu due to nine-day ‘Navratri’ festival, which began with religious fervour today.

Shiv Kumar Sharma, Superintendent of Police, Katra, said keeping Navratri festival in mind we have alerted our forces.
“We have a very good liaison with the Army and the Central Reserve …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mayawati is not a Dalit daughter, but the daughter of wealth: Congress

LUCKNOW – Congress leader Digvijay Singh has accused Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati of misusing public money, and said she is not the daughter of a Dalit, but the daughter of wealth.

The giant garland, used to honour Mayawati during the Bahujan Samaj Party’s silver jubilee celebrations on Monday led to a new controversy, as it … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mayawati is not a Dalit daughter, but the daughter of wealth: Congress.

Obama to visit Australia only for 24 hours

CANBERRA – United Sates President Barack Obama will visit Australian capital Canberra, as part of his Asia-Pacific tour next week.

Obama’s proposed visit to Indonesia and Australia was rescheduled on Sunday, after difficulties in passing health reform in the US Congress forced a three-day delay.
The President’s itinerary for a one-night stopover will include dinner and bilateral …. Read the original article  : Obama to visit Australia only for 24 hours.

Intelligence officials say suspected US missile attack kills 4 people in northwest Pakistan

Officials: US missile attack kills 4 in Pakistan

MIR ALI, Pakistan – Pakistani intelligence officials say a suspected U.S. missile attack has killed at least four people in northwestern Pakistan.
Two intelligence officials said an unknown number of people were also wounded in Tuesday’s strike in the North Waziristan tribal region.
The CIA has repeatedly targeted militant positions … Read more >>>.

Huge cache of ammunitions recovered from Jharkhand

EAST SINGHBHUM – Police recovered a huge cache of ammunitions during a raid at the office of a stone-crushing operation in Jharkhand’s East Singhbhum district.

Following a tip-off, police raided the place and recovered explosives amassed at the office.
3,245 detonators, power gel – explosive raw materials – (about 125 gram), and two 50-meter-long rolls of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Huge cache of ammunitions recovered from Jharkhand.

Now, Victoria Police in midst of racism scandal

MELBOURNE – Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Simon Overland has defended his officers after a report accused the force of racially discriminating against African youth.

A Springvale Monash Legal Service report claimed that police officers labeled young African men as “monkey” and “black c***”, took photographs of them gathered on the streets for intelligence purposes and, in … Read more : Now, Victoria Police in midst of racism scandal.

Kidnapped Brit toddler recovered in Pak

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani police officials have claimed that the five-year old British child, Sahil Saeed, who was kidnapped from his grandmother’s house in Punjab’s Jhelum district two weeks ago, has been safely recovered.

Sahil’s grandfather, Raja Basharat, also confirmed his recovery, saying that he has been handed over to the Jhelum town administration.
“He is recovered and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kidnapped Brit toddler recovered in Pak.

Ashley Dupre’s hair catch fire during Playboy photoshoot

NEW YORK – Ashley Dupre, the former high-class call girl at the centre of the Eliot Spitzer prostitution scandal, found that posing for Playboy could be dangerous when her hair caught fire during a photoshoot, it has emerged.

The incident took when Dupre, 24, was lying nude on the ground surrounded by candles for one of …. Original article  : Ashley Dupre’s hair catch fire during Playboy photoshoot.

Impotent man forced wife to have sex with 50 men

KUALA LUMPUR – A 66-year-old man, who was suffering from erectile dysfunction, forced his wife to have sex with more than 50 foreigners in the last four years while he filmed them in the act to satisfy his sexual urges.

The 61-year-old woman claims her retiree husband got men from nearby rubber estates and directed her … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Impotent man forced wife to have sex with 50 men.

One-legged man plans to climb Malaysia’s Mt. Kinabalu

KUCHING – A one-legged Malaysian going by the name of Junaidi Fauzan, hopes to scale the country’s highest mountain-Mount Kinabalu, in Sabah, this year.

The 58-year-old retiree wants to do this after he completes his kayak trip from here to Kota Kinabalu, reports The Star.
“I plan to kayak from the western tip of Sarawak, Tanjung Datu, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : One-legged man plans to climb Malaysia’s Mt. Kinabalu.

Four CRPF men injured in Srinagar firing

SRINAGAR – At least four Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were injured after militants’ opened fire on them in a busy market in Srinagar.

A civilian was also injured in the firing that took place in Kokar Bazar on Tuesday morning.
The militants eventually managed to escape, but the State police have begun an extensive search …. Read the original article  : Four CRPF men injured in Srinagar firing.

Alaska officials kill 2 wolves blamed in death of teacher who was jogging near rural village

2 wolves blamed in Alaska teacher’s death killed

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Alaska Fish and Game spokeswoman says state officials have located and killed two of the wolves believed responsible for the death of a teacher who was killed while jogging alone along a rural village road.
Blowing snow stymied earlier efforts to track the wolves near … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Alaska officials kill 2 wolves blamed in death of teacher who was jogging near rural village.

USS Indianapolis Survivor Passes Away

JACKSONVILLE (GaeaTimes.com)- William Hafford Sharp, a survivor of the famous US Navy ship USS Indianapolis passed away on Sunday. He was 83 years old. The ship that was attacked by the Japanese Navy in 1945 and sank after being hit by Torpedoes is remembered in the history of the nation till date. The …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pak Taliban offers ‘no attack’ deal to Punjab govt. after Shahbaz’s plea

LAHORE – A day after Pakistan’s Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif pleaded with the Taliban to exempt the region from violence, the banned terror outfit has proposed a deal with the government, saying the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) would not carry … Read more : Pak Taliban offers ‘no attack’ deal to Punjab govt. after Shahbaz’s plea.

Prince William talks about importance of family time

LONDON – Prince William has shared his view on how important family time is, after a youngster approached him for help on getting away early from school on Fridays.

William, 27, gently informed Lana, a year six at Newnham Croft Primary School in Cambridgeshire, who had raised the issue, … Read : Prince William talks about importance of family time.

Six arrested in Kolkata for misbehaving with air hostess

KOLKATA – The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) took into its custody six youths after being offloaded from a Patna-Kolkata-Bangalore Indigo flight on accusations of misbehaving with an air hostess.

Sources said the six unruly youths began to misbehave with the air hostess … Read more : Six arrested in Kolkata for misbehaving with air hostess.

Orchard owners, growers expect bumper mango harvest in Malihabad

MALIHABAD – Growers and orchard owners of Malihabad in Uttar Pradesh are rejoicing at the sight of blooming mango trees.

This year there has been record flowering of the mango trees and there is no pest problem either.
Veteran mango grower of Malihabad, Kalimullah Khan, who was … Read : Orchard owners, growers expect bumper mango harvest in Malihabad.

Pak Senate body recommends ban on Indian television channels

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Senate Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting has proposed a ban on Indian television channels in the country.

The committee, which had proposed such a ban earlier also, has asked cable operators not to air Indian television channels and dramas.
Committee …. Original source  : Pak Senate body recommends ban on Indian television channels.

Israel lifts closure of West Bank as east Jerusalem tensions calm

Israel lifts closure of West Bank as tensions calm

JERUSALEM – Israel has lifted its closure on the West Bank and granted open access to Jerusalem’s holiest shrine.
Police say thousands of troops will remain on high alert but reported no disturbances Wednesday as calm returned. Israel originally sealed off the territory last week.
Wednesday’s measures came a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Israel lifts closure of West Bank as east Jerusalem tensions calm.

Latest trend in UK: News mums heading for boobs jobs soon after having babies

LONDON – An increasing number of new mums are going for boob-jobs soon after giving birth, raising concerns among health experts.

Many women make part of the young mum-brigade to go under the knife for getting breast implants within weeks of their babies’ births.
Mothers already make up 60 percent of breast augmentation patients, the third most …. Read the original article  : here.

John Grisham works to be published as e-books

LONDON – Works of best-selling American author John Grisham are set to be published online in the form of e-books.

The renowned writer, who has sales of more than 250 million physical books worldwide to his credit, will allow 23 of his best-sellers to be made available electronically.
The 55 year-old’s publisher Random House said the e-texts …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Baimiao becomes China’s first town to make government accounts public

BEIJING – China’s remote Baimiao Township in Sichuan province has become the first in the country to make its accounts public.

The government published detailed accounts of its expenditures, including a 1.5-yuan purchase of a pad of writing paper, on its website. Rendered
“In order for power to operate in sunshine, financial expenditures must be made public,” … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Baimiao becomes China’s first town to make government accounts public.

Greek pop star’s sex tape makes ??4.5m despite country’s financial crisis

LONDON – Despite being in the middle of a financial crisis, a sex tape featuring Greek pop star Julia Alexandratou is said to have made 4.5 million pounds in Greece.

Alexandratou, 24, who is half-English, has done various model shoots as well as a number of music videos, including the 2007 single ‘The Target is Cash’, …. Original source  : Greek pop star’s sex tape makes ??4.5m despite country’s financial crisis.

ANVC holds first round of talks with central interlocutor

SHILLONG – The representatives of the banned outfit Achik National Volunteer Council (ANVC), a Garo rebel group demanding autonomy, held the first round of talks with the Central government interlocutor P C Haldar here on Tuesday.

ANVC, a tribal Garo rebel group operating in Meghalaya’s Garo Hills region, is fighting for the creation of Garoland Territorial …. Read the original article  : here.

Koirala discharged from hospital

KATHMANDU – Nepali Congress President Girija Prasad Koirala has been discharged from the hospital after his health condition showed signs of improvement on Wednesday.

He has been taken to the residence of his daughter Sujata Koirala at Mandikatar.
Earlier, doctors attending on Koirala confirmed that his health is getting better.
According to them, the oxygen level in his …. Original article  : Koirala discharged from hospital.

Possibility of catching Osama bin Laden alive simply does not exist: US Attorney General

WASHINGTON – US Attorney General Eric Holder has said that the possibility of America catching Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden alive “simply doesn’t exist.”

“Based on the intelligence I’ve reviewed, the possibility simply does not exist. He will be killed by us or he will be killed by his own people so that he is …. Read the original article  : here.

Iranian student to be executed for stone-throwing during demonstration

TEHRAN – The Iranian Government has decided to execute a 20-year-old Iranian student, who was arrested for throwing a stone during the pro-democracy mass protests against the country’s alleged rigged presidential elections.
Islamic studies student Mohammad-Amin Valian was arrested on the basis of a photograph taken at a mass demonstration against the rigged presidential election last …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Iranian student to be executed for stone-throwing during demonstration.

Chaos inside Jammu and Kashmir Assembly

SRINAGAR – Chaos took place inside the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Wednesday as legislators dragged two MLAs outside the House following their protest over the State Government’s recruitment policy.

Legislators dragged Independent MLA S A Rashid …. Source article  : Chaos inside Jammu and Kashmir Assembly.

‘Superman’ Berlusconi can’t be felled by kryptonite

LONDON – Silvio Berlusconi has again indulged himself with self-praise – his publishing company has now unveiled a book that lauds the Italian Premier as ‘Superman’.

The book titled “Love always wins over envy and hatred” has been released by Berlusconi’s firm Mondadori, … Read more : ‘Superman’ Berlusconi can’t be felled by kryptonite.

Baradar would be deported to Afghanistan: Pak Defence Minister

KARACHI – Despite the Lahore High Court order preventing his extradition, Pakistan Defence Minister Chaudhry Ahmed Mukhtar has said Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Taliban’s second-in command, would be handed over to Afghanistan after a case is registered against him in Pakistan.

Talking to …. Source article  : Baradar would be deported to Afghanistan: Pak Defence Minister.

Pak, Iran ink deal on gas pipeline project

LAHORE – Pakistan and Iran have inked a deal on the gas pipeline project in Istanbul, Turkey.

According to a private television channel, Pakistan Petroleum Secretary Kamran Lashari has signed the agreement on the project, which is expected to be completed by 2013.
The two countries signed …. Source article  : Pak, Iran ink deal on gas pipeline project.

Pak police nabs Baitullah’s close aide from Karachi

KARACHI – An anti-extremist cell (AEC) of the Pakistan police has claimed nabbing a close aide of the killed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) chief Baitullah Mehsud from Karachi.

Acting on intelligence input, the AEC team of the Sindh police’ Crime Investogation Department (CID) raided a house in the Bin Qasim town and arrested Suleman Mehsud alias …. Original source  : Pak police nabs Baitullah’s close aide from Karachi.

KNP delegation meets senior Indian diplomat

LONDON – Kashmir National Party leaders held a meeting with Syed Asif Ibrahim, Minister (Coordination) at the High Commission of India in London.

The meeting took place on Wednesday at the India House in London.
The KNP is the first political party which is based in England and in Pakistani Administered Kashmir to have openly met the … Read more »».

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar launches ‘Clean River Yamuna’ campaign

NEW DELHI – Art of Living Guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has launched the ‘Clean River Yamuna’ campaign to create awareness among people to restore the river”s past glory.

At the launching of the seven-month long ‘My Yamuna, My Dilli’ campaign to clean the river, he said that the responsibility for cleaning up the Yamuna lies … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sri Sri Ravi Shankar launches ‘Clean River Yamuna’ campaign.

26/11 accused Headley to plead guilty in US court

NEW YORK – Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) operative David Coleman Headley, who has been charged by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) with conspiring in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks will plead guilty before a US court on Thursday.

Headley is expected to plead guilty at the court hearing in Chicago on Thursday. Earlier, he had pleaded not …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 26/11 accused Headley to plead guilty in US court.

Manipur declares war on poppy cultivation

IMPHAL – Unscrupulous elements are exploiting conditions to cultivate and reap rich profits from illicit opium poppy seeds in remote border area villages of Manipur.

As per reports the crude produce of poppy grown in the state is being smuggled out to cater to the Golden Triangle through the porous Indo-Myanmar border.
The Golden Triangle is located … Read more : Manipur declares war on poppy cultivation.

Mukherjee admits fuel hike has hit commoners

NEW DELHI – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has admitted that the hike in fuel price has affected the life of the middle class families and lower income groups.

“I do know that when prices go up, common people suffer, poor people suffer. It is not unknown. But at the same time you can’t ignore the fact …. Source  : Mukherjee admits fuel hike has hit commoners.

Maoists kidnap Bihar engineer, release him after few hours

SHERGHATI – A civil engineer of a private construction firm, who was briefly abducted and detained by the Maoists, was rescued from a remote forest region of Bihar’s Gaya district on Tuesday.

Heavily-armed personnel of the Revolutionary Communist Centre (RCC), a breakaway faction of the proscribed CPI (Maoists), raided the office of the construction firm, burnt …. Source  : Maoists kidnap Bihar engineer, release him after few hours.

Fury as Danish mum dresses tot as Hitler, Stalin to show ‘evil inside all of us’

LONDON – A Danish mum is said to have caused fury after she dressed up her one-year-old daughter as the world’s most evil leaders.

Artist Nina Maria Kleivan photographed daughter Faustina dressed as despots including Adolf Hitler, Idi Amin and Joseph Stalin.
She made Faustina wear tiny uniforms, a make-up moustache for some photos, and then sent … Original article on : Fury as Danish mum dresses tot as Hitler, Stalin to show ‘evil inside all of us’.

Any significant terror strike in India would ‘re-ignite’ Indo-Pak tension: Petraeus

WASHINGTON – While stressing that talks between India and Pakistan is the key to reducing heightened tension in the region, US Central Command Chief General David Petraeus has warned that any Mumbai type terror strike in India would certainly ‘re-ignite’ hostility between the two nuclear powered nations.

Testifying before the US Senate Armed Services Committee, General [..] Read the original article: here.

‘World’s most costly TV’ made of 28kg gold, encrusted with 72 diamonds and costs 1.5m pounds !

LONDON – The world’s most expensive television set comes with 55 inch screen, base and outer frame made from 28kg of solid 18 carat rose gold and adorned with 72 round cut one carat flawless diamonds.
he stunner, PrestigeHD Supreme Rose, will cost its buyer 1.5 million pounds, experts said.

Brainchild of British designer Stuart Hughes, 38, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Breeding of captive exotic birds increases Chennai’s bird population

CHENNAI – The captive breeding of exotic birds, including the imported ones, has increased Chennai’s bird population.

Many of them have been bred them in backyards, farms, aviaries and house terraces.
The birds are popular due to their colour and exuberant looks. Bird lovers have got special permission to breed exotic birds in their farms.
Satyanarayanan, a bird … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Breeding of captive exotic birds increases Chennai’s bird population.

Quake-hit Haiti needs 11.5 billion dollars to rebuild

Port-au-PRINCE – The Dominican Republic of Haiti has told its partners that it needs 11.5 billion dollars to rebuild from earthquake damage.

Haiti was hit by a 7.0-magnitude earthquake on January 12 this year that left more than 220,000 dead and large swaths of the capital, Port-au-Prince, in ruins.
According to the Christian Science Monitor, the estimate …. Read the original article  : Quake-hit Haiti needs 11.5 billion dollars to rebuild.

Suspected Maoist supporters beaten up in Jharkhand

JAMSHEDPUR – Threatened by Maoists, villagers of Jharkhand’s Dalma district beat up fellow villagers whom they suspected of supporting the rebels.

Three suspects identified as Mahesar Singh, Mann Govind Singh and Phulmaali Singh were accused of giving details of villagers to the Maoists and posing a threat to them.
All the villages come under Dalma district and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Suspected Maoist supporters beaten up in Jharkhand.

Al Qaeda websites present growing threat: FBI chief

WASHINGTON – Al Qaeda may be using the Internet to recruit and radicalize, FBI Director Robert Mueller testified Wednesday before a House Appropriations subcommittee.

Mueller said Wednesday that the United States faces an expanding array of Al Qaeda-related threats that extend far beyond the lawless regions of southwest Asia and into the US itself via radical …. Read the original article  : here.

Deranged Mumbai advocate shoots teen, killed by police

MUMBAI – A deranged Mumbai advocate shot and killed his 16-year-old female neighbour after a fight over noise here today.

He also fired at a police team and was killed in the exchange of fire.
Sixty-five-year-old Harish Maroliya, who lived in a housing society in Andheri, reportedly fought with his neighbour’s daughter over the noise at her … Original source on Gaea Times at : Deranged Mumbai advocate shoots teen, killed by police.

12 injured in crude bomb blast in Bihar

JAMUI – At least twelve passengers have been injured in a bomb blast in a mini bus near Lakshmipur in Bihar’s Jamui district on Thursday.

According to sources, as soon as the bus carrying passengers from Sangrampur to Jamui reached a petrol pump near Lakshmipur, a crude bomb kept in the vehicle went off.
Twelve people, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 12 injured in crude bomb blast in Bihar.

Suspended cop recalls when ‘good friend’ Zardari lit his cigarettes in jail !

LAHORE – A suspended District Superintendent of Police (DSP) of Lahore Police, Imran Babar Jameel, has described President Asif Ali Zardari better than the police establishment, which according to him had framed him in a false case.

Calling Zardari his ‘good friend’, Jameel said he used to share cigarettes with him when he escorted the … Read more »»».

Pak Interior Ministry warns of fresh terror attacks in major cities

LAHORE – Pakistan’s Interior Ministry has warned of fresh terror attacks by the Taliban in all major cities, including Lahore, Islamabad and Peshawar.

According to a notification issued by the ministry, a group of 15 trained militants from the restive Waziristan region could wreak havoc across the country in coming few days.
Army helicopters and aircrafts … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pak Interior Ministry warns of fresh terror attacks in major cities.

Murli Sharma back on Television with Sssshh Koi Hai

March 18, 2010 (Sampurn Wire):Bollywood baddie Murli Sharma always seemed to have believed in the balancing act. .between films and TV.
While we were wondering what happened to the talented actor and if he’s also left TV behind (last he was seen on the box in Bombay lawyers on NDTV 24/7 ) like many others … Original source on Gaea Times at : Murli Sharma back on Television with Sssshh Koi Hai.

Three out five indigenous people more likely to commit crime in Australia

ADELAIDE – At least three out of every five indigenous people in Australia are more likely to commit a crime.

In the South Australian justice system, indigenous people are 11 times more likely to commit a crime than non-indigenous people, Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows.
“The next highest ratio of indigenous to non-indigenous offender rates was …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Afghanistan, West accuse Iran of arming Taleban

LONDON – Afghan and Western officials have accused Iran of delivering tonnes of weaponry to the Taleban, including plastic explosives, mortars, grenades and technical manuals.

According to The Times, weapons and documents shown to Channel 4 News indicate that more than ten tonnes of weapons have been intercepted at Iran’s desert border with Afghanistan in the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Afghanistan, West accuse Iran of arming Taleban.

Gorkha representatives to hold tripartite talks with central government officials

NEW DELHI – A seven-member delegation of the Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM) will represent the Hill community at the fifth round of tripartite talks with the central officials here today.

West Bengal State Urban Development Minister Ashok Bhattacharya will preside over the meeting. The GJM representatives will be led by General Secretary Roshan Giri.arka Bahadur Chettri, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gorkha representatives to hold tripartite talks with central government officials.

SP MLA booked for allegedly setting woman on fire

MAHARAJGANJ – A Samajwadi Party MLA has been booked for setting a woman on fire in Uttar Pradesh’s Maharajganj District.

According to police, MLA Sripati Azad, who represents the Sadar Assembly seat, set Savitri Devi, a widow on fire in Rampur Buzurg village following a heated argument.
According to sources, Azad was a frequent visitor to the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : SP MLA booked for allegedly setting woman on fire.

Maoist sympathisers up in arms against ‘Operation Green Hunt’ in Jharkhand

LATEHAR – Maoist sympathisers in Jaharkhand’s Latehar district have launched a protest against Operation Green Hunt, an operation launched by the Central Government against the rebels.

The Ramchandran Group, a group of human rights activists led by the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist), staged a 24-hour sit-in protest in front of the D C Office here.
Raising …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Maoist sympathisers up in arms against ‘Operation Green Hunt’ in Jharkhand.

Amistad sails to Havana; a symbol of the slave trade joins US and Cuba

A symbol of the slave trade joins US and Cuba

WASHINGTON – Days from now, a stately black schooner will sail through a narrow channel into Havana’s protected harbor, its two masts bearing the rarest of sights – the U.S. Stars and Stripes, with the Cuban flag fluttering nearby.
The ship is the Amistad, a U.S.-flagged vessel … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Amistad sails to Havana; a symbol of the slave trade joins US and Cuba.

Silvio Berlusconi now caught trying to gag the media

LONDON – Silvio Berlusconi is in the line of fire again – the Italian Premier has attracted controversy over wiretaps wherein he is apparently trying to stifle the media.

According to the new transcripts, published in Italy for the first time, Berlusconi called up a commissioner on the country’s independent broadcast watchdog, Agcom, after he came …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Silvio Berlusconi now caught trying to gag the media.

Moily gets Moortidevi Award for Shree Ramayana Mahanveshanam

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Devisingh Patil will present the prestigious Moortidevi Award of Bharatiya Jnanpith to Union Minister of Law and Justice Veerappa Moily for his outstanding work on Shri Ramayan Mahanveshanam, here today.

An established writer in Kannada, Moily has authored, to date, four novels, three collections of poetry, three plays, collections of essays, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Moily gets Moortidevi Award for Shree Ramayana Mahanveshanam.

Iran jails ex-vice president convicted of spreading propaganda against clerical establishment

Iran jails former vice president, reform activist

TEHRAN, Iran – An Iranian appeals court has upheld the conviction of a former vice president on a charge of spreading propaganda against the ruling clerical establishment during the postelection turmoil.
The court also confirmed a one-year prison sentence for Hossein Marashi. A close relative said authorities took him into … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Iran jails ex-vice president convicted of spreading propaganda against clerical establishment.

First lesbian bishop consecrated with Episcopal Church’s approval

LONDON – In what has been seen as a move likely to worsen divisions over homosexuality, an Anglican church in the US has approved the consecration of its first openly lesbian bishop.

The Episcopal Church of the USA, the most liberal province within the Anglican Communion, had been under pressure not to allow the Rev Mary … Original article on : First lesbian bishop consecrated with Episcopal Church’s approval.

John Edwards’ estranged wife ‘disgusted’ by his mistress’ GQ photoshoot

NEW YORK – John Edwards’ estranged wife Elizabeth was ‘disgusted’ by his mistress’ Rielle Hunter’s racy photos and GQ interview.

“She was disgusted by the photos like everyone. But she moved on pretty quickly,” the New York Daily News quoted a source as telling People.com
Elizabeth’s sister Nancy Anania told the magazine: “She seems to be happy …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : John Edwards’ estranged wife ‘disgusted’ by his mistress’ GQ photoshoot.

French MP campaigning to legalise brothels

LONDON – A French lawmaker from President Nicolas Sarkozy’s UMP party is raising demands to legalise brothels, more than 60 years after Paris banned them.

Chantal Brunel, MP for the western Paris suburbs and the head of the national watchdog on sexual equality, believes crime rates would dip and sex workers would benefit from “sexual services …. Read the original article  : French MP campaigning to legalise brothels.

India has reduced over 35,000 troops in Kashmir

JAMMU – Without much fanfare, India has withdrawn over 35,000 troops from Jammu and Kashmir. More troops are expected to be withdrawn soon.

Over 35,000 troops have been reduced in Jammu and Kashmir in the past 15 months, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah told the state legislative assembly. He promised a further decline in the …. Original source  : India has reduced over 35,000 troops in Kashmir.

Top Pak Islamic scholar issues 600-page ‘fatwa’ against terrorism, suicide bombings

ISLAMABAD – Influential Pakistani scholar Dr Tahir ul-Qadri has issued a 600-page ‘fatwa’ against terrorism and suicide bombing.

Speaking to reporters after releasing the ‘fatwa’ here, Qadri said suicide bombers are ‘destined for hell’ and that Islam does not support violence in any form.
“Terrorism is terrorism, violence is violence, and it has no place in Islamic …. Source article  : Top Pak Islamic scholar issues 600-page ‘fatwa’ against terrorism, suicide bombings.

Musharraf’s new political party closer to reality, but will he return?

ISLAMABAD – The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has reportedly accepted former President General Pervez Musharraf’s application to register a new political party named-All Pakistan Muslim League (APML), thus clearing the road for Musharraf to return to the country for another political stint.

Sources privy to the development said Musharraf was trying hard to register the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Musharraf’s new political party closer to reality, but will he return?.

Maharashtra villagers sensitized against bizarre superstitious rituals

SANGLI – Authorities have launched an awareness campaign in Maharashtra’s Sangli district to rid the locals of practising bizarre superstitious rituals.

Villagers in Sangli follow a ritual of lowering the infants into a 50-feet deep well with a belief it would help in increasing the life of the kids.
This ritual is very old and the villagers … Read more : Maharashtra villagers sensitized against bizarre superstitious rituals.

Two arrested militants brought back to Manipur

IMPHAL – Two hardcore activists of the banned KCP-MC militant outfit, who were arrested by a combined police team from Aizawl, have been brought back to Manipur.

Manipur police commandos, the Army, and Mizoram Police arrested the two militants, identified as Laishram Ranjit Singh alias Tamnganba (36) and Naorem Anand Singh alias Pari (28) on March …. Read the original article  : Two arrested militants brought back to Manipur.

Displaced Uttar Pradesh tribals demonstrate against Mayawati government

SONBHADRA – Displaced tribals Uttar Pradesh’s Sonbhadra district staged a demonstration on Thursday against the Bahujan Samaj Party-led state government, demanding adequate compensation.

The tribals say that they have not yet received the compensation promised by the state government, which took their land for setting up a thermal power plant.
“The government promised us jobs in lieu … Original article on : Displaced Uttar Pradesh tribals demonstrate against Mayawati government.

Singapore President Nathan visits Lord Venkateswara in Tirumala

TIRUPATI – Singapore President Sellapan Rama Nathan, whose is of Indian descent, visited the Lord Venkateswara temple in Tirumala

On his arrival at the Renigunta Airport on Thursday, he was received by Singapore Consulate General, Mohammed Noor Bin Yusuf, District Collector V Seshadri, Superintendent of Police (Admin) Ammi Reddy and other officials.
Nathan was accompanied by his …. Source article  : Singapore President Nathan visits Lord Venkateswara in Tirumala.

Husain’s work fetches over Rs.2 crore

NEW DELHI – An untitled work by eminent painter M.F. Husain sold for over Rs.2 crore at the Saffronart Spring Online Auction 2010.

The art work that crossed the Rs.2 crore mark shows four horses and a female rider and was painted by Husain 1970.
The Saffronart auction Wednesday witnessed a resurgence in demand for works … Read : Husain’s work fetches over Rs.2 crore.

Police presence high in east Jerusalem; West Bank sealed in anticipation of possible unrest

Police presence high in volatile east Jerusalem

JERUSALEM – The Israeli police presence in east Jerusalem is high and Palestinian access to the city’s holiest site is being strictly limited in anticipation of possible unrest Friday.
Israel is also barring nearly all West Bank Palestinians from entering the city.
Friday is the Muslim holy day, and in tense … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Police presence high in east Jerusalem; West Bank sealed in anticipation of possible unrest.

For sale: Jaguar Daimler Majestic built specifically for Queen

LONDON – If you’ve always wanted to travel like a king, then here’s your chance – the Queen’s customised Jaguar Daimler Majestic is up for sale.

The 2001 made roadster has clocked 14,000 miles and was used by the British monarch until 2004.
Since it was designed specifically for the Queen, special features include an armrest to …. Original source  : For sale: Jaguar Daimler Majestic built specifically for Queen.

India will have world’s most educated people by 2030: Sibal

NEW DELHI – Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Kapil Sibal has said that India will have the most educated people by 2030, thereby stressing on the use of technology to spread education to dispossessed areas of the country.

Sibal said the government is giving weightage to the use of Information Communication and Technology (ICT) to increase … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India will have world’s most educated people by 2030: Sibal.

Food experts say TV, travel and economy have helped make broad range of cheeses trendy in US

Food experts: TV, travel have made cheese trendy

MADISON, Wis. – Americans who grew up on grilled cheese and macaroni have developed more adventuresome tastes in adulthood, experimenting with a broader range of cheeses and often seeking the sharper flavors that have traditionally been popular in Europe.
Food experts shared their observations on Americans’ evolving palates this …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Food experts say TV, travel and economy have helped make broad range of cheeses trendy in US.

EGoM clears draft Food Security Bill

NEW DELHI – Union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar has said the Empowered Group of Ministers (EGoM) has cleared the draft of the Food Security Bill.

The Bill will enable every person Below the Poverty Line (BPL) to receive 25 kilograms of wheat or rice per month at the rate of Rupees three or 0.065 per kilogram.
“EGoM … Read : EGoM clears draft Food Security Bill.

Leave a lasting impression on Commonwealth Games guests: Sheila Dikshit

NEW DELHI – As New Delhi gears to host the Commonwealth Games (CWG), Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit has asked citizens to put their best foot forward and leave a lasting impression on the guests.

Addressing a tourism conclave here on Thursday, Dikshit said: “I can see a lot mannerisms changing, but it is still not enough. …. Source article  : Leave a lasting impression on Commonwealth Games guests: Sheila Dikshit.

Civilians of unit run canteens of defence forces allege mismanagement

NEW DELHI – Civilians of Unit Run Canteens (URCs) functioning under the three wings of India’s defence forces – Army, Navy and Air Force have sought parity in pay and benefits with their parent organisation, the Canteen Stores Department (CSD).

Under the banner of All India Defence Civilian Canteen Employees Union (AIDCCEU), they staged a protest …. Source  : Civilians of unit run canteens of defence forces allege mismanagement.

UK equalities watchdog says ‘Indians only’ advert broke the law

LONDON – Britain’s Equalities and Human Rights Commission has said a job ad for a worker “preferably of Indian origin” broke the law.

Computer firm Torry Harris, which has offices in Bristol and Bangalore in India, posted the advertisement for the 38,000-pound-a-year IT post on a website.
The company said it was looking for someone who “should … Read more »».

Romney leads 2012 Republican presidential bid field

WASHINGTON – Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney leads his Republican rivals for the party’s 2012 presidential nomination, according a new survey out Friday by Public Policy Polling.

According to Politico, Romney commands 28 percent of the 614 self-identified Republican primary voters polled by PPP.
Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee is placed second with 24 percent, followed by …. Original source  : Romney leads 2012 Republican presidential bid field.

China’s elections won’t be Western-style, says lawmaker

BEIJING – China has said that it will adhere to its own mode of development instead of adopting Western-style elections.

“Different countries have different election rules and a socialist China won’t follow Western election campaigns,” the China Daily quoted Li Fei, the deputy director of the legislative affairs commission under the Standing Committee of the National …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Polytechnic College students invent Cell phone-operated tractor

MOGA – Two students of the Moga Polytechnic College have invented a tractor that can be operated with the help of a mobile phone.

The duo has worked on this unique tractor to help farmers.
Pavittar Singh Baraad, one of the inventors said that the tractor could be operated with mobile buttons from anywhere.
“With the help of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Polytechnic College students invent Cell phone-operated tractor.

Shahbaz Sharif must stop supporting ‘asset ‘ terror groups before it’s too late: Pak analyst

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Punjab province’s Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s recent statement imploring the Taliban to exempt his region from violence has shocked many, but the bigger question is as to what prompted Shahbaz to make such an irresponsible statement.

Some analysts believe that the recent series of suicide attacks in Lahore has surprised Shahbaz to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Shahbaz Sharif must stop supporting ‘asset ‘ terror groups before it’s too late: Pak analyst.

Counter-terrorism experts say Jihad Jane represents a threat from online ‘jihobbyists’

WASHINGTON – Counter terrorism experts have expressed the view that people like Colleen LaRose, who is known by her online moniker as ‘Jihad Jane’ are essentially ‘Jihobbyists’ or people drawn to the online theatre of violent jihad, and become increasingly radical as they delve deeper into Web forums.

These experts say people like LaRose are not …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Counter-terrorism experts say Jihad Jane represents a threat from online ‘jihobbyists’.

Prince Harry eyes North Pole trek to help injured service personnel

LONDON – Prince Harry is set to undertake an expedition to the North Pole to help raise funds for injured service personnel.

The 25-year-old royal will join a team of amputees who lost limbs in the line of duty and their guides for the Walking With The Wounded trek which will take place in April next …. Read the original article  : Prince Harry eyes North Pole trek to help injured service personnel.

68 percent of Americans would vote out all lawmakers: Fox poll

NEW YORK – A Fox News poll shows 68 percent of voters would oust all incumbents, while 20 percent would keep all lawmakers in office.

The poll further revealed that even 52 percent of Democrats, whose party controls both houses of Congress, would get rid of all incumbents. Thirty-two percent would keep them.
Most Republicans (79 percent) …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 68 percent of Americans would vote out all lawmakers: Fox poll.

Malaysian Indian Congress calls for more funds to Indian entrepreneurs

KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) wants the Government to provide more funding for Indian entrepreneurs.

Its president, S. Samy Vellu, said that since 2008, the MIC-owned Social Strategic Foundation (YSS) and Tekun have provided loans totalling RM11mil to 1,481 Indian businessmen.
“I have directed YSS to conduct a study on the progress achieved by …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

North Korea spurns UN push to stop executions and torture

GENEVA – North Korea’s Ambassador to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Ri Chol, has denounced its recommendations to stop public executions, torture of prisoners, and other endemic violations of human rights in the aftermath of the reported execution of the senior official responsible for disastrous economic reforms.

Chol said that the council’s recommendations reflected … Read more »».

Over 1500 Uzbek militants in Pak’s S. Waziristan area

ISLAMABAD – Foreign fighters, or “global terrorists” remain a formidable presence in Pakistan’s North West Frontier Province (NWFP).

First-hand accounts from locals suggest that there is no shortage of Islamic foreigners willing to join the fray.
Among them are about 1500 Uzbeks affiliated to the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU), who are regarded as tough, rough and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Kayani leaves for US to take part in next week’s strategic dialogue

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has left for the United States to take part in the upcoming strategic dialogue between the two countries on March 24.

During his ‘official’ visit, Kayani is also likely to meet top US military and government officials in Tampa and Washington, The Dawn … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kayani leaves for US to take part in next week’s strategic dialogue.

Kashmir to assess water loss due to treaty with Pakistan

JAMMU – The Jammu and Kashmir government will hire a private agency to assess water losses suffered by the state due to the Indus Water Treaty provisions that restrict the use of its three rivers.

Official sources said Friday the state cannot harness the waters of the Jhelum, Indus and Chenab as much as it …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

VHP leader Togadia released, denied entry to Kandhamal

BHUBANESWAR – Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Praveen Togadia, who was arrested last night for attempting to enter riot-hit Kandhamal district, was released early Saturday.

Togadia was stopped at Charichhak in Boudh district as he tried to enter Kandhamal, despite a ban imposed by the district administration on his entry.
He was booked under Section 151 of …. Source article  : VHP leader Togadia released, denied entry to Kandhamal.

Border Roads Organisation trying its best to open Srinagar-Leh Highway

ZOJILA SONAMARG – The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is working against odds in rough terrain to throw open the snow-blocked Srinagar-Leh Highway in Jammu and Kashmir, so that it is open for traffic soon.

The highway remains covered under heavy snow measuring up to seven to eight feet, cutting off Ladakh region from the rest of … Read : Border Roads Organisation trying its best to open Srinagar-Leh Highway.

Himachal farmers to receive permits to kill wild animals damaging their crops

BARAGAON – Farmers of Himachal Pradesh will soon receive permits to kill wild animals that damage their crops and affect the yield.

In a few areas of the state, the farmers have also left their fields barren, as monkeys and other animals are destroying their cultivation.
Primarily the permission to kill monkeys and blue bulls will be … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Himachal farmers to receive permits to kill wild animals damaging their crops.

Consumers angry over hike in milk prices

NEW DELHI – Customers here are angry over the announcement made by Mother Dairy, the biggest supplier of milk, that fresh milk would cost Rs two more per litre from Saturday.

Mother Dairy has reportedly raised prices by Rs 1 and Rs 2 per litre.
Major milk retailers in the country like Amul and Mother Diary had …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Consumers angry over hike in milk prices.

Indian Tantric tries killing sceptic live on TV, fails

LONDON – A sceptic challenged an Indian tantric to kill him live on television, after the guru proclaimed that he could kill another man using only his mystical powers.

Sanal Edamaruku, self-appointed sceptic-in-chief of Indian Rationalists’ Association, demanded Pandit Surender Sharma to exterminate him.
Both men were invited to a talk show for the challenge.
The episode was …. Original source  : Indian Tantric tries killing sceptic live on TV, fails.

Murdered Brit teen Scarlett Keeling’s mum admits to benefit fraud

NEW DELHI – The mother of murdered British teenager Scarlett Keeling has admitted to falsely claiming 19,000 pounds in benefits.

According to The Times, 44-year-old Fiona MacKeown claimed the income support money between February 2005 and March 2008, including during the time of her daughter’s death in Goa.
MacKeown admitted to a Exeter Crown court that received …. Original article  : Murdered Brit teen Scarlett Keeling’s mum admits to benefit fraud.

Girls stage a rally for women empowerment in Assam

JORHAT – Female students of various schools and colleges took part in a rally here on Friday to spread mass awareness about women empowerment.

Organised under the aegis of the 9 Assam Rifles Battalion, the rally was organised by the National Cadet Corps (NCC).
The rally would cover almost all the interior areas of Jorhat.
“They will go … Read more >>.

West German spy agency ‘employed about 200 former Nazi criminals’

LONDON – The Federal German Intelligence Service, which is also known as BND, has admitted that it employed about 200 former Nazi criminals for at least 15 years after the Second World War.

Some of these criminals were involved in massacres in Poland and Russia, while the others were Gestapo torturers. All of them found a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

UN chief visits Gaza, seeks end to bruising Israeli and Egyptian blockade

UN chief visits Gaza, seeks end to blockade

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip – U.N. chief Ban Ki-moon has entered the blockaded Gaza Strip, where 1.5 million people have been under lockdown by Israel and Egypt for nearly three years.
Ban has repeatedly called for an end to the blockade, imposed after the Islamic militant Hamas movement seized …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : UN chief visits Gaza, seeks end to bruising Israeli and Egyptian blockade.

Prince Harry’s charity for sick children raises concern

LONDON – WellChild, the charity that has Prince Harry on its side as a Royal patron, has raised concerns after it was brought to the attention of the Charity Commission.

The organisation, which cares for sick children, was said to have landed amid allegations relating to payments made by WellChild to the husband of former chief … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Prince Harry’s charity for sick children raises concern.

US teacher creates ‘Fed Up With Lunch’ blog after eating school lunches!

NEW YORK – An anonymous teacher in the US has come with up a blog, entitled “Fed Up With Lunch: The School Lunch Project,” after nibbling on the very same meatloaf and mystery greens the students eat in the school cafeteria on a daily basis.

“Mrs. Q,” as she’s called, is looking to bring about changes … Read more »»».

Crude bomb found inside Kingfisher flight

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – A low-intensity country-made bomb was found inside a Kingfisher flight IT-4731 from Bangalore to Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday morning.

The plane was later taken to the remote bay area of the Thiruvananthapuram airport, where the security personnel and the airport authorities assessed the suspicious object found on-board.
All the passengers were deplaned after the cargo cleaner …. Original article  : Crude bomb found inside Kingfisher flight.

US still ‘unsure’ over ‘positive’ or ‘negative’ impact of Pak Taliban arrests

WASHINGTON – There seems to be a great confusion among top US officials over the recent arrests of the some wanted Taliban commanders in Pakistan, as a day after President Obama’s Special Envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan Richard Holbrooke said America is “gratified” with the arrests, Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) chief Leon Panetta has stressed … Read : US still ‘unsure’ over ‘positive’ or ‘negative’ impact of Pak Taliban arrests.

Kiwi-Indian liquor storeowner’s widow calls for ban on imitation firearms

AUCKLAND – The widow of Indian-origin south Auckland liquor store-owner Navtej Singh has called for a ban on the sale of fake firearms following a shop assistant being held at gunpoint on Saturday.

Two men believed to be in their teens used a pistol in a daylight robbery before physically assaulting the young woman.
The pistol is …. Source  : Kiwi-Indian liquor storeowner’s widow calls for ban on imitation firearms.

Hizbul Mujahideen militant killed in Awantipora

PULWAMA – Security forces gunned down a district commander of the Hizbul Mujahideen terror outfit in a fierce gun battle that continued for hours between the two sides in Pulwama district’s Awantipora area.

The militant, identified as Parvez alias Musharraf, was killed after the army personnel and the local police launched a joint operation against militants …. Read the original article  : Hizbul Mujahideen militant killed in Awantipora.

Pakistan officials: Taliban kill 4 tribesmen, pin notes to bodies saying they were US spies

Taliban kill 4 they say were US spies in Pakistan

MIR ALI, Pakistan – The bullet-riddled bodies of four tribesmen killed for allegedly spying for the United States were found Sunday in a semiautonomous Pakistani region, witnesses and officials said.
Officials said the four were kidnapped by the Taliban about ten days ago.
Gul Akber Khan, who lives … Read more »»».

Women’s blood inspires rebel art in Nepal (Feature with images)

KATHMANDU – As a young girl brought up in a conservative household in the Nepal capital, Ashmina Ranjit remembers how her mother used to scold her for touching things during menstruation. “I used to hate that,” the artist says adding her anger inspired her to create and “celebrate womanhood and the feminine force”.

“In South Asian …. Source  : Women’s blood inspires rebel art in Nepal (Feature with images).

India to go maximum extent to find solution to Naga issue: Pillai

NEW DELHI – Union Home Secretary G K Pillai has said that the Central Government would go maximum extent possible to find a solution to the vexed Naga issue.

“All I can assure you from the Government of India side is that you will not find us wanting, we would be flexible, we would recognize the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India to go maximum extent to find solution to Naga issue: Pillai.

Five Indian fishermen arrested by Pak for violating sea limits

KARACHI – Pakistan’s Maritime Security Agency has arrested five Indian fishermen for allegedly violating the country’s sea limits near the Sir Creek area in the Arabian Sea.

After a brief interrogation, all fishermen have been handed over to the Docks police for registration of a case and further probe, The Dawn reports.
India and Pakistan frequently arrest …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Kazakh embassy celebrates traditional goodwill festival of Nauryz

NEW DELHI – Central Asian diplomatic missions, including that of Kazakhstan, headquartered in New Delhi gathered at a venue to celebrate the festival of Nauryz with traditional fervor and gaiety over the weekend.

Nauryz is a time when people reconcile, forgive one another and unite. It is a period when people project a festive and happy …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kazakh embassy celebrates traditional goodwill festival of Nauryz.

From Gautam Bhatia comes graphic novel, miniature style (IANS Books, With Image)

NEW DELHI – Filled with rich visual imagery in miniature art style, Bihar is a tale of rise, fall and redemption in architect-writer Gautam Bhatia’s new graphic novel, “Lie: A Traditional Tale of Modern India”.

“If good politics is about governance, how can a minister inaugurate a speedbreaker when people do not have enough food? Or …. Original source  : From Gautam Bhatia comes graphic novel, miniature style (IANS Books, With Image).

In impoverished Pakistan, millions of children forgo classrooms for hard labor

Pakistan’s poverty pushes its children to work

ISLAMABAD – Abbas Sajeet is 11 years old, but he doesn’t go to school. Instead, he earns 2,500 rupees ($30) a month as an auto mechanic in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad.
The money goes straight into the meager coffers of his seven-member family.
“Every day from the car garage, I see … Original source on Gaea Times at : In impoverished Pakistan, millions of children forgo classrooms for hard labor.

Lawmaker won’t press charges in after being spat on by Capitol Hill protestor

Lawmaker won’t press charges in spitting incident
WASHINGTON – A congressman who was spat on by a protestor on Capitol Hill is declining to press charges.
Missouri Democrat Emanuel Cleaver was making his way through a group of angry protestors when the incident occurred. It was one of several ugly incidents in a day of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Lawmaker won’t press charges in after being spat on by Capitol Hill protestor.

Colombian radio journalist slain; covered paramilitaries’ links to elites

Colombian journalist slain in militia stronghold

BOGOTA – The killing of a veteran radio reporter by a motorcycle gunman in a northwestern state capital reignited concerns Saturday about the safety of journalists in Colombia.
Clodomiro Castilla, a reporter and announcer at La Voz de Monteria radio, was gunned down on his front porch Friday night, said Jaime …. Source article  : Colombian radio journalist slain; covered paramilitaries’ links to elites.

Gunman kills Colombian radio journalist who covered paramilitaries’ links to elites

Colombian president laments killing of journalist

BOGOTA – The killing of a radio reporter by a motorcycle gunman reignited concerns Saturday about the safety of journalists in Colombia.
Clodomiro Castilla, a reporter and morning announcer at La Voz de Monteria radio in northeastern Colombia, was gunned down on her front porch Friday night, said Jaime Cuervo, a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gunman kills Colombian radio journalist who covered paramilitaries’ links to elites.

Vienna Philharmonic permanently appoints its first woman concertmaster

Vienna makes first woman concertmaster permanent

VIENNA – The Vienna Philharmonic has permanently appointed its first woman concertmaster.
Albena Danailova has been acting concertmaster since September 2008 – the first woman ever in that position with the orchestra. The world famous ensemble announced Saturday that she was now permanently appointed to that position after passing probation.
The Vienna …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US envoy sees French FM before heading to Mideast

US Mideast envoy stops in France
PARIS – U.S. envoy George Mitchell sought advice from France’s foreign minister Saturday before heading off to meet Mideast leaders in a bid to start indirect talks between the Israelis and Palestinians.

Mitchell – who will see Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu first, then Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas – said he … Read more >>.

Aruba to review underwater picture that tourist believes might be remains of missing US teen

New tip leads Aruba to search for missing US teen

ORANJESTAD, Aruba – Authorities will search once again for a missing U.S. teen after an American couple took an underwater picture of what they believe might be Natalee Holloway’s remains, a spokeswoman for the prosecutors’ office told The Associated Press on Saturday.
A police diving team will …. Original article  : Aruba to review underwater picture that tourist believes might be remains of missing US teen.