Lost Descartes letter found after nearly two centuries in Pennsylvania

NEW YORK – Thousands of treasured documents that vanished from the Institut de France in the mid-1800s. An Italian mathematician stole them.

Among them were 72 letters written by Frenchman Ren?? Descartes, the founding genius of modern philosophy and analytic geometry.
Now, according to the New York Times, one of those purloined letters has turned up at …. Original source  : Lost Descartes letter found after nearly two centuries in Pennsylvania.

Hindus across Pakistan celebrate Holi

LAHORE – The colourful festival of Holi is being celebrated by Hindus across Pakistan with enthusiasm and traditional zeal.

The Daily Times quoted Evacuee Property Trust Board (EPTB) Deputy Secretary Shrines Syed Faraz Abbas as saying that his department has arranged the …. Source article  : Hindus across Pakistan celebrate Holi.

Six out of ten Australians don’t want more people – poll

MELBOURNE – More than 60 percent of Australians participating in a poll have said that the federal government should not go ahead with plans to increase the country’s population from 22 million to 35 million by 2050, largely through immigration.

According …. Source article  : Six out of ten Australians don’t want more people – poll.

Suspected militants blow up NATO oil tanker in Pakistan

PESHAWAR – A NATO oil tanker was blown up by a group of heavily armed militants on Monday on the outskirts of Pakistan’s north-western city Peshawar, police said.

A tanker carrying fuel through Pakistan for NATO troops based in neighbouring Afghanistan was targeted by several armed men … Read more : Suspected militants blow up NATO oil tanker in Pakistan.

Indo-Pak talks being held to hoodwink international community: UJC

ISLAMABAD – The United Jihad Council, a conglomerate of Kashmiri organisations, has called last week’s foreign secretary-level talks between India and Pakistan as nothing but a “ploy to defuse the international pressure.”

“No progress whatsoever could be made in …. Original source  : Indo-Pak talks being held to hoodwink international community: UJC.

Muslims join Hindus to celebrate Holi in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – Hindus and Muslims Monday came together and took out a procession, called a Holi Baraat, in this Uttar Pradesh capital to celebrate the festival of colours amid communal unity.

This is a decades old tradition followed by the members of both communities.
Hindus and Muslims were seen lost in Holi revelry while taking out …. Original source  : Muslims join Hindus to celebrate Holi in Uttar Pradesh.

East Texas church fires at a glance

East Texas church fires at a glance
A list of the 10 church fires in east Texas since Jan. 1 that authorities have ruled were started intentionally. The list does not include a Jan. 19 blaze at First Baptist Church in the central Texas town of Temple, which authorities suspect was arson.

- Jan. 1, Little Hope …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : East Texas church fires at a glance.

Packed with pilgrims, Lord Krishna’s land dances to Holi

VRINDAVAN – A cloudy morning failed to deter Holi revellers who were out in full force in Goverdhan, Barsana, Mathura, Vrindavan and other pilgrim destinations associated with the Sri Krishna legend. Vrindavan was Monday overflowing with devotees who had started pouring in a day earlier.

Along the Yamuna river banks, groups of Hindu priests huddled together … Read more »»».

Vidic should have been sent off, an inexplicable decision: O’Neill

LONDON – Aston Villa manager Martin O’Neill has slammed referee Phil Dowd for his side’s Carling Cup final defeat against Manchester United at Wembley.

Villa won a penalty when Vidic fouled striker Gabriel Agbonlahor, but while Dowd awarded the penalty, he failed even to book the Serbian.
“It was … Read more >>.

Iran rebel group Jundallah announces new leader

LONDON – The Iran rebel group Jundallah has named al-Hajj Mohammed Dhahir Baluch as its new leader.

“The movement is more than its leader. With firm determination and strong will it will continue on the path of jihad till the last drop of blood,” the Christian Science Monitor … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Iran rebel group Jundallah announces new leader.

Pak students body, experts say UK immigration laws discriminatory

LONDON – Participants attending an Oxford University seminar have termed Britain’s immigration laws discriminatory and unjust for Pakistani students.

The seminar titled ‘New British immigration laws and their effects on Pakistani students’, was held under the aegis of the Nawa-i-Waqt Group of Newspapers.
According to The Nation, the …. Read the original article  : here.

Rajkot opposes shifting of lions to Madhya Pradesh

RAJKOT – Amid growing concern about the depleting tiger population in India, the people of Rajkot have expressed their unhapiness with the Centre’s proposal to shift Asiatic lions to the Kuno Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh.

The president of the Gir Nature Club, Mahendra Singh … Read more »».

Hafiz Saeed calls on Pak to wage jihad against India over Kashmir

NEW DELHI – The mastermind of the Mumbai terror attacks in November 2008, Hafiz Mohammed Saeed, has said that Pakistan should wage jihad against India if New Delhi refuses to hold talks on issues like Kashmir and the sharing of river …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Brit Wonder Twins to become youngest secondary school pupils

LONDON – Nine-year-old twins Paula and Peter Imafidon are set to become the youngest pupils to be admitted to a secondary school in Britain at the age of nine.

The pair, known as the Wonder Twins for their precocious minds and record-beating exam results, wowed parents and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brit Wonder Twins to become youngest secondary school pupils.

Amanda Knox ‘a victim of anti-Americanism’

NEW YORK – Amanda Knox, the American college student found guilty in Italy of killing her British roommate during an orgy, could be the victim of anti-Americanism, according to an author.

Nina Burleigh, a liberal American author and journalist born in Chicago, Illinois, spent seven months in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Amanda Knox ‘a victim of anti-Americanism’.

Princess Diana used feng shui to calm her nerves

LONDON – It has emerged that the late Princess of Wales, Diana, was a fan of feng shui, using the ancient Chinese system to help calm her nerves whenever she was stressed.

The revelation was made through a letter Diana had written to her reflexologist in June 1994 thanking her for an … Read more >>>.

Thousands flock to Sydney Opera House to pose for nude photograph

SYDNEY – Sydney Opera House steps saw more than 5000 people come together to pose nude for artist Spencer Tunick.

The photoshoot, which is Tunick’s latest installation, ‘Mardi Gras: The Base’, took place just after dawn on March 1.
Mardi Gras festival executive producer Danielle Harvey said 5200 people – including sportspeople, … Read more >>>.

Himachal pays tribute to ITBP constable killed in Kabul blast

CHAMOT – Villagers of Chamot village in Chamba district here paid tributes to Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) constable Roshan Lal, who was killed in the blast that rocked Kabul on February 26.

Constable Roshan Lal was deputed to Indo-Tibetan Border Police and was on a … Read more >>>.

Britain’s Ministry of Defence to destroy all future UFO reports

LONDON – Britain’s Ministry of Defence is set on destroying all future UFO reports it receives so that it will not have to make them public, revealed a previously secret memo.

According to the newly released policy document, the official UFO investigation unit and hotline were closed down at the start of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Britain’s Ministry of Defence to destroy all future UFO reports.

US troops finishing sweeps in Afghanistan, starting rehabilitation process

KABUL – American Marine units are finishing sweeps of contested ground in Afghanistan, clearing the last stretches of roads of hidden bombs, and reinforcing hastily erected patrol bases and outposts.

According to the New York Times, more Afghan government forces were arriving, increasing the manpower to counter …. Original source  : US troops finishing sweeps in Afghanistan, starting rehabilitation process.

Obama heads to Georgia in latest effort to promote job creation

Obama to visit a Georgia technical college
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama hits the road again this morning to highlight efforts to create jobs and strengthen the economy.
It will be the latest stop on what the administration calls the White House to Main Street Tour.
Obama flies to Savannah, Ga., to tour a workforce development …. Source  : Obama heads to Georgia in latest effort to promote job creation.

Wartime leader Karadzic insists Bosnian Serbs were targets of Muslim state-sponsored terrorism

Karadzic: Serbs were targets of state terror

THE HAGUE, Netherlands – Wartime Bosnian Serb leader Radovan Karadzic says Bosnia’s civil war was caused by the rush to independence by Muslim authorities and their “state-sponsored terrorism” against Serbs.
Karadzic is outlining his defense at the Yugoslav war crimes tribunal for a second day. He faces charges of genocide … Read more »»».

Pakistani Islamic scholar to issue 600-page fatwa against terrorism, suicide bombing

LONDON – Describing Al-Qaeda as an ‘old evil with a new name’, influential Pakistani scholar Dr Tahir ul-Qadri has said he would soon issue a ‘fatwa’ against terrorism and suicide bombing.

Qadri said the Al-Qaeda has not been sufficiently challenged and that his global ruling against terrorism completely …. Original article  : Pakistani Islamic scholar to issue 600-page fatwa against terrorism, suicide bombing.

Pak Election Commission not under federal government: EC Secretary

ISLAMABAD – : Pakistan Election Commission (EC) Secretary Ishtiaq Ahmed Khan has described the commission as an ‘autonomous’ body, and added that it does not works under the federal government.

In a statement, The News quoted as saying that even President Asif … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pak Election Commission not under federal government: EC Secretary.

PAC to field more Malaysian Indians candidates in 2011 Polls

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) President Abdul Hadi Awang has said more Malaysian Indian would be given an opportunity to contest the 2011 general election.

The Star quoted Awang as saying that his party would ensure that justice, equity and fairness were practised at all stages of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : PAC to field more Malaysian Indians candidates in 2011 Polls.

Indian-origin cabbie steals 40,000 dollars in New York’s biggest rider rip-off

NEW YORK – In what is being said to be New York’s biggest rider rip-off ever, an Indian-origin cabbie has stolen an estimated 40,000 dollars by overcharging passengers.

A Taxi and Limousine Commission review of trip data concluded that Wasim Khalid Cheema manipulated the meter in his yellow cab to … Read more »».

Artists engrave Mona Lisa, Napoleon on to leaves!

LONDON – The Chinese art of hand carving on tiny leaves is beginning to be admired world over with artists bringing alive well known pieces such as Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa.

Leaf Art is by no means easy; creating an image on a … Read more : Artists engrave Mona Lisa, Napoleon on to leaves!.

‘Tasmanian Fritzl’ gets 12yr jail term for ‘cruel’ sex with daughters

MELBOURNE – A 55-year-old man has been sentenced to a 12-year jail term for cruel and despicable crimes against his daughters 20 years ago in Tasmania.

The child rapist, who has been living outside Tasmania since 1997, was arrested in New South Wales in June last year, …. Read the original article  : here.

Naga leaders meet Manmohan Singh seek sovereignty of ‘Greater Nagaland’

NEW DELHI – Rebel Naga leaders, who are seeking sovereignty for a ‘Greater Nagaland’ met Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on Tuesday.

As per reports the issue of sovereignty was not discussed in the meeting today.
The banned National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) – [..] Read the original article: here.

Taslima Nasreen says she never wrote article for Kannada newspaper

NEW DELHI – In the backdrop of violent protests in Karnataka’s Shimoga and Hassan towns, controversial Bangladeshi writer Taslima Nasreen on Tuesday denied writing an article in a Kannada newspaper, which provoked riots in Shimoga.

“I have never written an article and Monday’s protest in Shimoga has really shocked me, claimed Nasreen. She said that the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Taslima Nasreen says she never wrote article for Kannada newspaper.

2010 would be good for Sino-US relations: US Ambassador

BEIJING – US Ambassador to China Jon Huntsman has predicted that 2010 will prove to be a good year for Sino-US ties.

In an interview with Xinhua, Huntsman said US and China would “come together quickly” and “focus on global issues during the rest of this year”.
“We’ve had some issues about which we’ve disagreed, but we … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 2010 would be good for Sino-US relations: US Ambassador.

Naked Kiwi cyclist escapes conviction, fine!

WELLINGTON – A Kiwi man has escaped a conviction and fine for riding his bike naked near Upper Hutt after he successfully appealed it.

Nick Lowe was spotted by a female motorist, who complained to the police and later told the court that she was “fairly disgusted” when she saw him.
Lowe was convicted of offensive behaviour [..] Read the original article: here.

India concerned over 42 terror camps existing in Pak

POKHRAN – Defence Minister A.K. Antony on Sunday said India is concerned about the 42 terror camps existing across the border even after Mumbai terror attacks and Pakistan’s non serious approach to dismantle them.

Speaking during the Operation Vayu Shakti 2010 programme organized here, Antony said: “Our real concern is existence of terror camps intact across … Read more : India concerned over 42 terror camps existing in Pak.

In DC gay marriage debate, message focused on references to civil rights, interracial marriage

In DC, blacks were crucial to gay marriage debate

WASHINGTON – Gay and lesbian couples will soon be able to marry in Washington, but the debate over same-sex marriage has sounded different here.
Over the past year, both sides have courted the support of D.C.’s black community, a majority of the city’s 600,000 residents.
That has meant drawing [..] Read the original article: here.

Tiger Woods could be granted forgiveness for sins, not Madoff: Poll

NEW YORK – Tiger Woods could be forgiven for cheating on his wife with several women, but not Ponzi king Bernie Madoff, says a survey.

According to the 60 Minutes/Vanity Fair Poll, if given a choice to pardon someone, Americans were willing …. Source  : Tiger Woods could be granted forgiveness for sins, not Madoff: Poll.

Parents angry at teachers’ rice slight torch school in central Philippines, police say

Police: Angry parents torch school in Philippines

MANILA, Philippines – A group of parents torched a school in the central Philippines after complaining their children weren’t given the food promised by a government program aimed at boosting school attendance, police said Tuesday.
The gutted walls were all that remained of the one-story Gaib Elementary School in Masbate … Read more >>.

7 injured in Tamil Nadu bullfight ‘Jallikattu’

THIRUMANUR – Around 77 people were injured in the traditional bullfight ‘Jallikattu’ that was organised at Thirumanur village in Ariyalur district.

Jallikattu is India’s version of running of the bulls that takes place every year in the Spanish city of Pamplona.
In Jallikattu, well fed … Read more : 7 injured in Tamil Nadu bullfight ‘Jallikattu’.

Men love Elvis’ quiff but women go gaga over Brad Pitt’s crew cut

LONDON – Elvis Presley’s iconic quiff has come out top of the charts among British men’s favourite hairstyles, says a research.

According to the study, which polled more than 4,000 Britons, 50 per cent of men voted for the King’s trademark quiff and sideburns.
Whereas, …. Read the original article  : Men love Elvis’ quiff but women go gaga over Brad Pitt’s crew cut.

US daredevil in Australia breaks world record for distanced jumped on a Harley-Davidson

US daredevil smashes Harley-Davidson jump record

SYDNEY – An American motorcycle stuntman twice broke the world record for the longest distance jumped on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle Tuesday, sailing through the air near Australia’s Sydney Harbour to shatter the previous 10-year-old record.
Seth Enslow flew to a new record distance of 183.7 feet (56 meters) on his Harley-Davidson … Original article on : US daredevil in Australia breaks world record for distanced jumped on a Harley-Davidson.

No Holi for superstitious Chhattisgarh villagers

RAIGARH – They haven’t played Holi for over a century and blame an age old rumour. Dozens of families of seven villages in Chhattisgarh’s Raigarh district stayed away from Holi celebrations Monday, fearing that tigers would attack them if they defied the no-Holi tradition.

About 2,200 men and women of Hattapali, Mauhapali, Pardhiapali, Amlipali, Manjurpali, Chhinpatera …. Read the original article  : here.

Severe drought drops Mekong River to lowest level in nearly 20 years, halting some traffic

Drought drops Mekong River to nearly 2-decade low

BANGKOK – Severe drought has dropped the Mekong River to its lowest level in nearly 20 years, halting some cargo traffic and boat tours on the Asian waterway that is the lifeblood for 65 million people in six countries, a draft report said.
The decrease was caused largely by …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

36,000 Taliban fighters operational in Afghanistan: General Barrons

KABUL – A US general in charge of negotiating with the Afghan Taliban has estimated that there are nearly 36,000 insurgents in Afghanistan.

“There are probably 900 in the leadership, counting very junior to very senior, and there are between 25,000 and 36,000 people who …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 36,000 Taliban fighters operational in Afghanistan: General Barrons.

Hamilton to focus on new season after manager dad’s exit

LONDON – Former Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton has said that he has decided to focus on the new 2010-11 racing season after parting ways with his manager, his father Anthony, less than two weeks before the first grand prix of the year in Bahrain.

Hamilton’s growing maturity and … Original article on : Hamilton to focus on new season after manager dad’s exit.

Two Pilot killed in Begumpet naval aircraft crash

HYDERABAD – Hyderabad Police on Wednesday confirmed the death of the pilot manning the crashed Kiran HJT-16 aircraft during an Air Show near Begumpet Airport.

The aircraft crashed into the third floor of a residential building as it was executing ‘Sagar Pawan’ formation.
Sources said a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Two Pilot killed in Begumpet naval aircraft crash.

6 in 10 Americans think only force can stop Iran from making nuke bomb

BUENOS AIRES – Six in ten Americans believe that only force will be required to stop Iran from making a nuclear bomb, while 25 percent think that diplomacy and sanctions alone will work, according to a recent Fox News poll.

The poll also found that a majority of Americans …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 6 in 10 Americans think only force can stop Iran from making nuke bomb.

Goa farmers celebrate ‘Shigmo’ Festival

PANAJI – Goa farmers, through a colourful parade, celebrated the ancient Shigmo Festival that markes the onset on spring.

The celebrations included colourful street floats, folk music and dances, sword dances and lively spraying of dry colours, while the procession passed through the streets of Goa.
The five-day festival began …. Source  : Goa farmers celebrate ‘Shigmo’ Festival.

Argentina celebrates as Clinton calls on UK for talks over Falklands future

BUENOS AIRES – Argentina is celebrating a diplomatic coup after US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton called on Britain to accept talks on the future of the Falkland Islands.

Clinton’s statement came after a two-hour meeting with Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, reports The Times.
Responding to a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Argentina celebrates as Clinton calls on UK for talks over Falklands future.

Kishenji’s aide arrested in Kolkata

KOLKATA – West Bengal Police have arrested Venkateshwar Reddy alias Telugu Deepak, a close aide of top Maoist leader Koteshwar Rao alias Kishenji from Sarshuna.

Reddy was arrested in a joint operation carried out by the state police and Crime Investigation Department … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kishenji’s aide arrested in Kolkata.

US to give Pak 1000 laser-guided bomb kits to tackle terror

WASHINGTON – In order to help the Pakistani security forces take on the extremists hiding along the Afghanistan border more effectively, the US Air Force (USAF) is planning to give 1,000 laser-guided bomb kits to that country.

Top US defence official, Lieutenant Colonel Jeffry Glenn told the media here that the USAF … Read more >>>.

For sale: Two bottled ghosts!

MELBOURNE – Spooky as it may sound, but online auction site TradeMe is putting two vials, which apparently contain spirits of ghosts exorcised from a house in New Zealand, up for sale.

Entitled “Two Captured Ghosts” the auction had reached a … Original source on Gaea Times at : For sale: Two bottled ghosts!.

Anti-abortion campaign featuring Hitler sparks outrage in Poland

LONDON – An anti-abortion billboard campaign showing Hitler and a bloody and torn foetus has sparked outrage in Poland.

Along with the provocative images, the campaign – designed by a Polish anti-abortion group – carries the slogan “Abortion for Poles: introduced by Hitler, March … Read more >>>.

UK officials put one of toddler James Bulger’s killers back in jail after parole violation

Killer in 1993 UK toddler’s slaying back in jail

LONDON – An official says Britain has again jailed a man who, as a boy in 1993, kidnapped and killed a toddler in Liverpool.
The Ministry of Justice says 27-year-old Jon Venables broke the rules governing his 2001 prison release and is now back behind bars. A ministry …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UK officials put one of toddler James Bulger’s killers back in jail after parole violation.

Herbal Viagra saves underperforming bull from slaughterhouse!

LONDON – Viagra came to the rescue of an under-performing four-year-old bull, Boris, who was all set to make it to the abattoir.

But farmer Dave Joyce used Viagra to help enhance Boris’ sex drive at Heronsbrook Farm, Solihull, West Midlands.
Boris was given a diet of herbal …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Herbal Viagra saves underperforming bull from slaughterhouse!.

Indian students are not being singled out: Australian Foreign Minister

NEW DELHI – Speaking on the increased racial attacks on Asian students in Australia, Visiting Foreign Minister Stephen Smith told ANI that Indian students are not being singled out, and added that his government has asked the Department of Criminology to conduct a data … Original article on : Indian students are not being singled out: Australian Foreign Minister.

14 killed as artillery, gunbattle rages in Somali capital; gov’t troops attack insurgent area

14 die in artillery, gun battle in Somali capital

MOGADISHU, Somalia – Witnesses in Somalia says at least 10 civilians and four militants have been killed in a gunbattle between Islamists and government forces in the capital.
Resident Sa’id Ahmed said the fighting started late Tuesday when government forces moved into an insurgent-held neighborhood of Mogadishu. He …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 14 killed as artillery, gunbattle rages in Somali capital; gov’t troops attack insurgent area.

Making it legal: same-sex couples to apply for marriage licenses in nation’s capital

Same-sex marriage becomes legal in DC
WASHINGTON – Same-sex couples can start applying for marriage licenses Wednesday in Washington.

Supporters say couples planned to line up before the city’s marriage bureau opened at 8:30 a.m., and some officials were expecting 200 or more people.
Washington will be the sixth place in the nation where gay marriages can take …. Read the original article  : Making it legal: same-sex couples to apply for marriage licenses in nation’s capital.

‘Rescued’ Sikh youth recall ordeal during Taliban’s captivity

PESHAWAR – The two abducted Sikhs, who were reportedly rescued by Pakistani security forces on Monday, appeared before the media to recall their horrific tale.

During an interaction with media persons at a local Gurudwara here, one of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Rescued’ Sikh youth recall ordeal during Taliban’s captivity.

Auckland police launches international hunt to catch Hiren Mohini’s murderer

AUCKLAND – Following claims that Indian-origin cabbie Hiren Mohini’s murderer could have fled to China, Auckland Police is in talks with international law enforcement agencies to locate him.

However, the officer in charge of the investigation, Detective Senior Sergeant Hywel Jones, has refused …. Source  : Auckland police launches international hunt to catch Hiren Mohini’s murderer.

Hiren Mohini’s murderer may have been caught on Airport security cameras

AUCKLAND – The man suspected to be behind the killing of an Indian-origin taxi driver Hiren Mohini in New Zealand is believed to have been captured on airport security cameras leaving the country.

While Auckland Police has refused to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Hiren Mohini’s murderer may have been caught on Airport security cameras.

German sportswear company Adidas 2009 net income falls 62 percent to $333 million

Adidas 2009 net income falls 62 pct to $333M

FRANKFURT – German sportswear company Adidas AG says its net income fell 62 percent to euro245 million ($333 million) as it experienced higher costs and a drop in demand during the downturn.
Adidas said Tuesday that 2009 sales dipped by 6 percent to euro10.38 billion, down from euro10.79 …. Source article  : German sportswear company Adidas 2009 net income falls 62 percent to $333 million.

Pratapgarh stampede claims over 60 lives (Lead:Pratapgarh stampede)

PRATAPGARH – At least 60 people have been killed and 50 injured on Thursday in a stampede at Ram Janki Temple in Uttar Pradesh’s Pratapgarh District.

According to Uttar Pradesh Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Brij Lal over 50 people have been killed.
The incident occurred in the Mangarh area of Kunda town …. Original article  : Pratapgarh stampede claims over 60 lives (Lead:Pratapgarh stampede).

Three-year-old Indian boy missing in Melbourne

MELBOURNE – A three-year-old Indian boy, who was holidaying in Melbourne with his parents for the past three months, has gone missing from a relative’s home in Lalor at around 1.10 pm (AEDT) on Thursday.

It is believed …. Original source  : Three-year-old Indian boy missing in Melbourne.

PFA activists protest against elephants killing

GUWAHATI – Activists of People For Animals (PFA), a voluntary forum working for the welfare of the animals staged a protest against the recurring accidents of elephants being knocked down by trains in a region that they contend … Read more >>.

Sex workers observe International Sex Workers’ Rights Day

KOLKATA – Over 500 sex workers gathered from different red light areas in Kolkata to stage a candle light procession on the occasion of the ‘International Sex Workers Rights Day’.

The Durbar Mahila Samanwaya, a forum of sex …. Source article  : Sex workers observe International Sex Workers’ Rights Day.

Thousands stampede at north Indian temple, leaving at least 63 dead, dozens injured: official

63 die, dozens injured in Indian temple stampede

LUCKNOW, India – A stampede broke out in at a temple in northern India as thousands of people jostled each other to get free clothes and utensils being distributed during a religious ceremony, leaving at least 63 people dead and dozens more injured, officials said.
The crush of people …. Source  : Thousands stampede at north Indian temple, leaving at least 63 dead, dozens injured: official.

South African president to lobby for a lifting of sanctions against Zimbabwe in UK talks

SAfrican leader to lobby to end Zimbabwe sanctions

LONDON – South African President Jacob Zuma is hoping to persuade Britain to end sanctions against Zimbabwe, his neighbor to the north.
Zuma is meeting with Prime Minister Gordon Brown on Thursday, the second day of his three-day state visit to Britain.
Zuma believes that the lifting of European Union … Read more »».

Most sea lions that visited Ore. coast in vast numbers seem to have moved on

Most sea lions gone from Ore. coast
FLORENCE, Ore. – The thousands of California sea lions that showed up this winter off the central Oregon coast seem to have largely moved on.

In San Francisco, last fall’s abrupt disappearance of the creatures left tourists disappointed. Now they’re slowly returning to San Francisco’s Pier 39.
While the sea lions …. Read the original article  : Most sea lions that visited Ore. coast in vast numbers seem to have moved on.

Hudson crash landing hero Sullenberger retires

NEW YORK – American Airlines pilot captain Chesley ‘Sully’ Sullenberger, who made headlines after safely gliding a jet onto the Hudson River last year, has retired.

Sullenberger, who saved the lives of 155 people through the emergency landing, flew his last US Airways flight to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Hudson crash landing hero Sullenberger retires.

Chidambaram for complete coverage of population register

NEW DELHI – Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Thursday stressed for complete coverage of the population without duplication while preparing the National Population Register (NPR).

Addressing the All India Conference of State Coordinators/ District Magistrates/ Collectors/ Deputy Commissioners … Original source on Gaea Times at : Chidambaram for complete coverage of population register.

German couple snapped romping in middle of road

LONDON – A German couple were photographed romping in the middle of a busy road in Germany.
Cops are now hunting the two after a motorist passed on the saucy snap.We want to find this couple because such behaviour is not permissible,” the Sun quoted a police spokesman …. Source  : German couple snapped romping in middle of road.

‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’ voted best bedtime story by UK parents

LONDON – Children’s book, ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’ by Eric Carle, has been voted as the best bedtime story in a survey of UK parents.

The book is about a caterpillar, which feasts on a lot of food, including an apple, two pears, three … Read more : ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’ voted best bedtime story by UK parents.

Spa sex racket in Malaysia busted

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian cops have busted a prostitution racket in Klang that was being run in the name of a spa.

The spa, which was inside a hotel, had numerous secret chambers accessible only through a hidden passage.
The federal anti-vice and gaming division, which raided the venue on …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

100-year-old woman credits smoking, whisky for long life

LONDON – Lorna Gobey, who recently celebrated her 100th birthday, has revealed the secret to her longevity. The centenarian says she still indulges herself with things she loves to do such as smoking and playing skittles.

Gobey, from St Peter’s, Cheltenham, has lived through two world wars and walked … Original article on : 100-year-old woman credits smoking, whisky for long life.

Official: At least 63 killed and dozens more injured in a stampede at a temple in north India.

India: 63 dead, dozens injured in temple stampede

LUCKNOW, India – A senior local government official says that the death toll in a stampede at a temple in north India has risen to 63.
Ashok Kumar says dozens of people were also injured Thursday when thousands of people crowded into the compound of a temple in Kunda, …. Original article  : Official: At least 63 killed and dozens more injured in a stampede at a temple in north India..

Congo wants UN peacekeepers out next year but top boss of peacekeeping ops says they’re needed

UN Peacekeeper boss: Congo still needs us
KINSHASA, Congo – The U.N.’s head of peacekeeping operations says despite the government of Congo’s wish for peacekeepers to leave the country next year, much remains to be done in the east and north which are being terrorized by Rwandan and Ugandan gunmen.

Alain Le Roy told reporters Wednesday night [..] Read the original article: here.

Clinton to meet with officials from 16 Central and South American nations

Clinton to meet with Latin American officials

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica – U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is in Costa Rica to press Latin American nations on democracy and development.
Clinton arrived in the capital, San Jose, early Thursday morning and will meet with officials from 16 Central and South American nations at a conference … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Clinton to meet with officials from 16 Central and South American nations.

Allahabad stampede claims 20 lives

ALLAHABAD – At lease twenty people were feared dead in a stampede here on Thursday afternoon.
The incident occurred inside the Kripalu Maharaj’s Ashram here.

The large number of people had gathered for an annual fair.
More details are awaited. (ANI)
…. Source  : Allahabad stampede claims 20 lives.

India concerned over supply of sophisticated US military equipments to Pak

NEW DELHI – India has expressed its concern over supply of sophisticated US military equipment to boost Pakistan’s ability crack down on the Taliban and Al-Qaida.

The US will supply sophisticated laser-guided-bomb kits, 12 American-made surveillance drones and 18 late-model F-16 fighters jets to Pakistan.
Defence Minister AK Antony today expressed his concern over the reported decision … Original source on Gaea Times at : India concerned over supply of sophisticated US military equipments to Pak.

Man sentenced to eight years in jail for stealing cheese!

LONDON – A man has been sentenced to nearly eight years in jail after stealing a piece of cheese – worth 2.50 pounds.

Robert Ferguson, who has a history of 13 convictions and has spent 22 of the last 27 years in prison, was said to have dodged California’s “three strikes” law in 1994.
Prosecutors originally sought …. Original article  : Man sentenced to eight years in jail for stealing cheese!.

Senior BSF commander arrested for 16-year-old Kashmiri boy’s murder

SRINAGAR – A senior Border Security Force (BSF) officer R.K.Birdi, has been arrested for giving the order to fire and kill a 16-year-old boy in Srinagar.

Zahid Farooq was shot dead a month ago as he and his friends jeered at a Border Security Force convoy passing by.
BSF constable Lakhvinder Kumar was arrested for killing Zahid. … Read more : Senior BSF commander arrested for 16-year-old Kashmiri boy’s murder.

Sarah Palin to turn into a ‘reality TV star’

LONDON – Sarah Palin is all set to star in a reality TV show that shows her family’s life in Alaska, according to reports.

The former Republican Vice-Presidential candidate is believed to have been in talks with a number of US networks for a show, which would follow Palin, her …. Read the original article  : Sarah Palin to turn into a ‘reality TV star’.

Jewels worth #100k found inside Dame Agatha Christie’s trunk

LONDON – A battered leather trunk that had belonged to British crime novelist Dame Agatha Christie is said to have contained jewels worth up to 100,000 pounds.

Jennifer Grant, a fan of the Poirot and Miss Marple creator, had bought the box for 100 pounds at auction, and though she realised …. Original source  : Jewels worth #100k found inside Dame Agatha Christie’s trunk.

Turkey warns of breakdown in ties with US after measure calls killing of Armenians genocide

Turkey warns of breakdown in ties with US
ANKARA, Turkey – Turkey’s foreign minister is warning of a breakdown in ties with the U.S. after a congressional committee approved a resolution branding the World War I-era killing of Armenians genocide.

Ahmet Davutoglu said Friday the Obama administration had not sufficiently put its weight behind efforts to block … Original article on : Turkey warns of breakdown in ties with US after measure calls killing of Armenians genocide.

Finding on sage grouse could significantly affect renewable energy, oil and gas, in West

Interior to announce sage grouse finding Friday

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – The Interior Department plans to announce whether it will pursue endangered species protection for sage grouse, a decision with major ramifications for the West’s renewable energy and oil and gas industries.
Interior Secretary Ken Salazar is expected to say Friday whether the department will pursue listing sage … Read more : Finding on sage grouse could significantly affect renewable energy, oil and gas, in West.

Somali official: British sailing couple held by pirates will be released within weeks

Somali official: UK couple to be released soon

NAIROBI, Kenya – A senior Somali official says a retired British couple snatched from their yacht by pirates more than four months ago will be released soon.
Deputy Parliamentary Speaker Mohamed Omar Dalha says Somali communities inside and outside the chaos-wracked country have been working to negotiate the “unconditional … Original article on : Somali official: British sailing couple held by pirates will be released within weeks.

Ukraine’s new president heads to Moscow in a hope to get a new gas deal

Ukraine’s president heads to Moscow to talk gas

MOSCOW – Ukraine’s new president is meeting with his Russian counterpart to talk gas.
The Kremlin says Viktor Yanukovych will hold talks with Dmitry Medvedev Thursday afternoon.
Yanukovych, who was sworn in last week, is anxious to get lower prices for natural gas Russia supplies to Ukraine.
During his election campaign, … Read more >>>.

Jay-z Meets Obama

Rap superstar JAY-Z took some time out of his busy touring schedule on Wednesday (03Mar10) to meet with U.S. President BARACK OBAMA.
The Empire State of Mind hitmaker has been friends with the politician since throwing his support behind the Democrat’s presidential election campaign in 2008.
The rapper recently revealed he had been invited to … Read : Jay-z Meets Obama.

Experts wary of Pak’s ‘double game’ behind US’ back

WASHINGTON – The Pakistan Army’s ’successful’ offensive in restive tribal regions of the country and the recent arrests of top militant commanders in Karachi and from other parts of the country, might be seen as a shift in Islamabad’s policies, but concerns are that it may be playing a “double game”.

According to Daniel Markey, a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Budding designers compete at fashion event in Bangalore

BANGALORE – Budding fashion designers showcased their collections and competed on the ramp of Wills Lifestyle Fashion Contest, which is being held here on Thursday.

The theme of the contest was ‘Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow’ and was organized with an aim to provide a platform to young designers.
About forty designers from all over the country showcased …. Original source  : Budding designers compete at fashion event in Bangalore.

Holy men spread awareness about global warming in Haridwar

HARIDWAR – Holy men participating in the ongoing Kumbh Mela have come forward to create awareness about global warming.

The group of holy men, belonging to different Akharas (sects), have taken on the responsibility of spreading awareness about global warming at the f??te and working towards recycling waste matter.
Mahant Ravindranand Giri of the Shri Panch Dashnam … Read more : Holy men spread awareness about global warming in Haridwar.

Michelle Obama “understands” hubby’s smoke-quitting issues

WASHINGTON – US First Lady Michelle Obama has admitted President Barack Obama is struggling to quit smoking.

She addressed the doctors’ report on the president’s health.
“What the president struggles with is what every smoker struggles with, it’s a difficult habit to break. It’s understandable that he struggles with it,” Politico quoted her as saying.
She added: “Do …. Original source  : Michelle Obama “understands” hubby’s smoke-quitting issues.

I express deep condolences to Gurshan’s family, says Krishna

NEW DELHI – External Affairs Minister S M Krishna on Friday expressed his deep condolences to the family of three-year-old Indian boy Gurshan Singh, who was found dead after vanishing from his Melbourne holiday home on Thursday.

“The Australian investigating agencies have confirmed that there was no external injury on the body of the three-year toddler,” …. Original article  : I express deep condolences to Gurshan’s family, says Krishna.

Pak media claims RAW, RAM behind killing of four Pakistani workers in Kandahar

ISLAMABAD – While no terrorist group has claimed the responsibility for the death of four Pakistani construction workers, who were killed near Kandahar on Thursday, the Pakistani media has termed the killings as a ‘revenge attack’ carried out by the Indian intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) in association with the Afghan …. Source  : Pak media claims RAW, RAM behind killing of four Pakistani workers in Kandahar.

Oz Indian leaders urge calm on death of Gurshan Singh in Melbourne

MELBOURNE – Indian community leaders in Australia have pleaded for calm during the murder investigation into death of three-year-old boy Gurshan Singh Kaurchanna in Melbourne.

Sikh community figure and Darebin councilor, Tim Singh Laurence, said he did not think Gurshan’s death would change the views of Indians living in Melbourne.
“I don’t think we’ve got to that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Oz Indian leaders urge calm on death of Gurshan Singh in Melbourne.

Two adults in Gurshan Singh’s home at the time of disappearance: Victoria Police

MELBOURNE – Victoria Police has revealed that at least two adults were in the Lalor house when three-year-old Indian boy Gurshan Singh Kaurchanna disappeared on Thursday.

Earlier, it was reported that Gurshan, whose body was found dumped by the side of a road in Melbourne’s northern suburbs six hours after he disappeared, had wandered out of … Original article on : Two adults in Gurshan Singh’s home at the time of disappearance: Victoria Police.

28th Agartala Book Fair attracts book lovers

AGARTALA – Thousands of book lovers are coming every day at the ongoing 28th Agartala Book Fair.

Organised by the Information Cultural Affairs and Tourism (ICAT) Department of Tripura with the cooperation of state publishers, the twelve-day-long fair is being held at the Sishuniketan ground of Agartala. It ends on March 11.
Tripura Chief Minister Manik …. Source article  : 28th Agartala Book Fair attracts book lovers.

Teachers accused of racism after choosing OJ Simpson, Dennis Rodman as role models

LOS ANGELES – Three white teachers were accused of racism and were suspended from a Los Angeles school after they picked OJ Simpson, Dennis Rodman and RuPaul as role models for Black History Month at their school. his episode occurred at Wadsworth Avenue Elementary, where the student body is more than 90 per cent Latino.

The …. Source  : Teachers accused of racism after choosing OJ Simpson, Dennis Rodman as role models.

Gunman shoots two Pentagon police officers in Washington

WASHINGTON – A 36-year-old gunman injured two Pentagon police officers while trying to enter the complex on Thursday evening. He was shot and taken into custody.

While the motive for the shooting wasn’t immediately clear, the gunman was identified as John Patrick Bedell, Fox News reports.
Addressing a press conference, Pentagon Police Chief Richard Keevil said Bedell … Read more >>>.

Visual IQ strengthens its team to help online and offline clients in marketing tools

KOCHI – Visual IQ, a US based company which recently opened its office in Kochi has announced an initiative to better assist marketers in achieving business goals through improved measurement and optimization of both online and offline media campaigns.

As part of efforts to help clients more tightly align their marketing efforts with business objectives, media …. Original article  : Visual IQ strengthens its team to help online and offline clients in marketing tools.

Holbrooke regrets ‘not Indian’ comment on Kabul attack

NEW DELHI – United State Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Richard C Holbrooke has expressed regret over the misunderstanding caused by his ‘not-Indian’ comment on the February 26 Kabul terror attack in which at least six Indians were killed and around 10 injured.

Holbrooke said, ” I did not say Indians were not the target, …. Source  : Holbrooke regrets ‘not Indian’ comment on Kabul attack.

Family members reject ‘insiders’ role’ in Brit toddler’s kidnapping in Pak

LONDON – Even as Pakistani agencies have intensified their operation to locate the kidnapped five-year old British boy Sahil Saeed and looking for leads regarding the involvement of some ‘insiders’, Saeed’s family has rubbished reports pointing fingers towards family members’ role in the abduction.

“That’s totally rubbish. I don’t …. Original source  : Family members reject ‘insiders’ role’ in Brit toddler’s kidnapping in Pak.

Afghan lawmaker escapes injury during Taliban attack on her convoy

Afghan lawmaker survives attack on her convoy

KABUL – A member of the Afghan parliament says she escaped injury when her convoy was attacked by Taliban insurgents in eastern Afghanistan.
Fauzia Khofi, who represents the far northern province of Badakhshan, says insurgents fired on her seven-vehicle convoy early Saturday as it was traveling from Nangarhar province to … Original article on : Afghan lawmaker escapes injury during Taliban attack on her convoy.

Nirupama Rao to visit Sri Lanka today

NEW DELHI – Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao will visit Sri Lanka today on a three-day official visit in a bid to boost bilateral ties between the two countries.

During her visit, Rao is expected to call on President Mahinda Rajapaksa and discuss with him matters of mutual interest …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nirupama Rao to visit Sri Lanka today.

National Horticulture Mission a boon for capsicum farmers

KRISHNAGIRI – Capsicum farmers in Krishnagiri district are earning huge profits due to the good harvest on account of the benefits obtained from the Central Government’s National Horticulture Mission.

The production cost is low and capsicum grown in the area is in …. Source article  : National Horticulture Mission a boon for capsicum farmers.

Killers of ‘high-status’ victims more likely to get death sentence

WASHINGTON – A new American research suggests that an accused is more likely to be sentenced to death if he or she murders a “high-status” victim.

Scott Phillips, associate professor of sociology and criminology at the University of Denver (DU), studied 504 cases in Harris County, Texas, [..] Read the original article: here.

Outrage over Melbourne school opting for halal sausages in welcome-back barbecue

MELBOURNE – The row over a welcome-back barbecue for students at a primary school in Melbourne has turned into a debate over the Islamic halal method of preparing meat.

The debate erupted after Coburg West Primary School’s Parents and Friends Association (PFA) ordered halal-only sausages for last month’s barbecue, which some parents thought was political correctness …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Outrage over Melbourne school opting for halal sausages in welcome-back barbecue.

World’s smallest ever baby boy weighs only 9oz

LONDON – A baby boy born in Germany has become the world’s smallest ever, weighing just nine ounces at birth.
The baby, who is said to be smaller than a can of coke, was born after just 25 weeks, and he was so little at birth that a tape measure laid next to his body was … Read this article on Gaea Times at : World’s smallest ever baby boy weighs only 9oz.

Five wanted Naxals arrested in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – The Chhattisgarh Police on Friday late evening arrested five wanted Naxalites from Rowghat Forest area in Kanker District.

The arrested were identified as Lakhmu, Jai Singh, Santu, hannu and Kohlu.
Police were searching for Lakhmu who has been active in Naxal activities since last many years.
At least 17 warrants were issued against Lakhmu from different …. Original source  : Five wanted Naxals arrested in Chhattisgarh.

Warning against Internet ‘Viagra’ containing bird droppings

WELLINGTON – Health experts have warned online shoppers to beware of internet-order medicines some of which have been found to contain everything from arsenic to bird droppings.

Fake medicines, such as those claiming to be Viagra, intercepted by Medsafe at New Zealand’s border included major ingredient guano i.e. bat and bird droppings while others contained whole …. Original source  : Warning against Internet ‘Viagra’ containing bird droppings.

Egyptian president to have gall bladder operation, hands over power to prime minister

Egyptian president to have gall bladder operation

CAIRO – Egypt’s state-owned news agency says President Hosni Mubarak is going to have a gall bladder operation in Germany and has temporarily handed over power to the prime minister.
MENA says the 81-year-old leader will have the operation Saturday after being diagnosed as having “severe inflammation of his gall … Read : Egyptian president to have gall bladder operation, hands over power to prime minister.

Afghan picked to set up government in Marjah has criminal record in Germany

New Afghan chief in Marjah has criminal record

KABUL – The Afghan man chosen to lead the government of a town just seized from the Taliban has a violent criminal record in Germany. But Western officials say they are not pushing to have him ousted.
Court records and news reports in Germany show that Abdul Zahir served … Original article on : Afghan picked to set up government in Marjah has criminal record in Germany.

Pak agencies ‘groping in dark’ over search for kidnapped Brit toddler

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani agencies, including the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) have intensified the search operation for kidnapped British toddler Sahil Saeed.

Five-year old Saeed was kidnapped on Thursday from his grandmother’s house in Jhelum when he was about to leave the house with his father for the airport to catch a flight back to London.
While officials …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pak agencies ‘groping in dark’ over search for kidnapped Brit toddler.

China becomes world’s second-largest producer of manufacturing output

NEW DELHI – The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) report has put China ahead of Japan as the world’s second-largest producer of manufacturing output, trailing behind only the United States.

According to UNIDO report released on Wednesday, China produced 15.6 percent of the world’s total manufacturing value added (MVA) in 2009, compared with 15.4 percent … Read more »»».

India temporarily suspends medical mission in Afghanistan

NEW DELHI/ KABUL – India on Saturday temporarily suspended its medical mission in Afghanistan and asked all doctors and paramedical staff working at the Indira Gandhi Children’s Hospital in Kabul to return home following a terror attack on its nationals here last week.

Indian Government has decided to be more cautious after the third major attack … Original source on Gaea Times at : India temporarily suspends medical mission in Afghanistan.

Two IAF squadrons to be decorated with “Presidential Standards”

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil will confer the prestigious military award (Presidential Standards) on the two premier units of the Indian Air Force (IAF), the 49 Squadron and 107 Helicopter, in Jodhpur.

“The Presidents Standards” is the highest and most prestigious honour for any unit of the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Two IAF squadrons to be decorated with “Presidential Standards”.

China asks Japan to urgently resolve World War II sex slaves impasse

NEW DELHI – China has asked Japan to offer an appropriate resolution to the plight of eight Chinese victims forced into serving as “comfort women” for Japanese soldiers during World War II.

Forcing women to be sex slaves or comfort …. Original article  : China asks Japan to urgently resolve World War II sex slaves impasse.

Chinese teacher on trial for pricking 63 students aged 3-6 years

NEW DELHI – A 22-year-old kindergarten teacher in China has reportedly confessed to pricking 63 students, aged between 3 and 6 years with a syringe as a method to discipline them.

Sun Qiqi, the accused, stood trial in a court in Yunnan province and was … Read more »»».

Pentagon gunman believed that US Govt. staged 9/11

WASHINGTON – The 36-year-old gunman, who shot at two Pentagon police officers while trying to enter the complex on Thursday evening, might have been suffering from a mental illness that led him into believing that the federal government orchestrated the Sept. 11 attacks.

According … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pentagon gunman believed that US Govt. staged 9/11.

Police delays killed my husband, says Kiwi-Indian liquor store owner’s widow

AUCKLAND – The widow of murdered Indian-origin south Auckland liquor store owner Navtej Singh reckons that the delay in police action led to her husband’s death, and she is demanding answers over their actions.

During the 2008 robbery, Harjinder Kaur comforted her fatally …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Police delays killed my husband, says Kiwi-Indian liquor store owner’s widow.

Pak in ‘overdrive’ to convince international community to push India for composite talks

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan is trying hard to push India to resume the composite dialogue in order to resolve all outstanding issues between the two countries, and is vying to garner more international support in this regard.

Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir held a meeting with all foreign ambassadors and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pak in ‘overdrive’ to convince international community to push India for composite talks.

Malaysian magazine apologises to Christians over sting operation

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s Al-Islam magazine has apologised for “unintentionally hurting the feelings of Christians” after it emerged that its reporters had posed as Christians and participated in a mass at the St Anthony’s Church to investigate the allegations of apostasy.

“The two reporters involved also tendered their apology for not realising that what they have … Read more >>.

Brit toddler kidnapped in Pak: abductors call father

LONDON – The father of the kidnapped British toddler, Sahil Saeed, received a phone call from his abductors on Friday, an official looking into the case has said.

According to Sky News, Sahil’s father Raja Naqash Saeed received the phone call on his Pakistani mobile phone, and the investigators are trying to trace the call.
“The boy …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brit toddler kidnapped in Pak: abductors call father.

Neighbours of Indian toddler Gurshan Singh astonished over his death

MELBOURNE – The residents of David St in Melbourne, from where three-year-old Indian boy Gurshan Singh went missing and was later found dead on Thursday, are astonished over how the toddler vanished from a busy street in the middle of a clear day.

The street where Gurshan spent his last day is no sleepy suburban lane …. Read the original article  : here.

Iraqis head to polls in historic election as blasts kill 15 across the country

15 die as Iraqis defy violence to vote
BAGHDAD – Police and hospital officials say at least 11 people were killed in northeastern Baghdad after a mortar attack leveled a building, bringing the death toll to 15 as Iraqis go to vote in historic elections.

Officials said the dead included four children, when two mortar shells landed … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Iraqis head to polls in historic election as blasts kill 15 across the country.

Official: Fighting erupts between Taliban, rival militants in Afghanistan; at least 50 dead

Taliban, rival militants battle in Afghan province

KABUL – Officials say gunbattles between the Taliban and another Islamist faction have killed at least 50 people in northeastern Afghanistan. The militants are apparently fighting for control of several villages where the central government has almost no presence.
Local police official Zalmai Mangal says the fighting in Baghlan province …. Source article  : Official: Fighting erupts between Taliban, rival militants in Afghanistan; at least 50 dead.

5 ’supergraphics’ removed from Hollywood buildings in ongoing battle between city, businessmen

Hollywood billboards taken down amid legal battle

LOS ANGELES – Five giant billboards have been removed from buildings in Hollywood near the site of the Academy Awards after Los Angeles prosecutors charged four people and four companies with hanging the so-called supergraphics illegally.
The ads for Asics athletic gear that hung horizontally across several storefronts near the …. Read the original article  : here.

Conservatives get a lead over Labour, still short of majority: Polls

LONDON – Conservative leader David Cameron has managed to get a lead over Labour, but he still looks short of an overall majority at the General Election, according to a new opinion poll.

An ICM poll for the News of the World shows the Tories have widened their lead over Labour to nine points.
It is the …. Source article  : Conservatives get a lead over Labour, still short of majority: Polls.

Massive protests against price rise across India

GUWAHATI /IMPHAL /SHIMLA – Various political parties and other groups staged massive demonstrations the against price rise in different Indian cities on Saturday.

In Assam, the Assam Mahila Parishad, the women’s wing of regional party Assam Gana Parisahd (AGP), vent their ire against the Congress-led Central government.
Over 20,000 women moved through the streets of Guwahati to … Read more >>.

Congress’s Digvijay Singh slams Mayawati on stampede victim compensation

AHMEDABAD – Senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh has slammed Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati for reportedly denying compensation to families of victims and those who were injured in the Pratapgarh Temple stampede.

Talking to reporters here, Singh said: “This is really shameful that Mayawati has refused to provide compensation to the victims. Mayawati has millions …. Original source  : Congress’s Digvijay Singh slams Mayawati on stampede victim compensation.

Arrested US ‘jihad seekers’ file another petition for release

ISLAMABAD – The five US youth arrested in Pakistan on charges of having links with Al-Qaeda have filed another plea for their release.

The plea would be heard on March 8 (Monday) in the district sessions court Sargodha, The News reports.
The five American ‘jihad seekers’, who were arrested last year from Sargodha, had earlier moved a …. Source  : Arrested US ‘jihad seekers’ file another petition for release.

Pak media blames India for engineering recent terror acts in Afghanistan

ISLAMABAD – While links between the Kabul attack, in which 17 people, including six Indians were killed, and the ambush in Kandahar, in which four Pakistani labourers were killed, is yet to be established, the Pakistani media continues to blame India for creating trouble in Afghanistan.

According to The Nation, one of Pakistan’s leading English dailies, …. Read the original article  : here.

Bargaining with Maoists is not on government’s agenda, says W. Bengal Home Secretary

KOLKATA – West Bengal Home Secretary Ashok Mohan Chakraborty has said that bargaining with Maoists is not on the state government’s agenda.

He also denied any demand being put up by the rebels for the release of an abducted schoolteacher.
“We have not received any information on the conditions laid down from their side. Administration cannot work … Read more : Bargaining with Maoists is not on government’s agenda, says W. Bengal Home Secretary.

French Army band performs in New Delhi

NEW DELHI – The French Army band performed here on Saturday, as India invited military bands and cultural troupes of armies from around the world to strengthen ties and promote peace through music.

The itinerary included performances by world-class musicians of The Royal EME (UK), The French Army, The Sri Lankan Army, The Bangladesh Army and … Original article on : French Army band performs in New Delhi.

Women will get real power in India: Farooq Abdullah

JAMMU – Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Farooq Abdullah has said that women will get the much awaited 33 percent share in real power, which will gradually increase to 50 percent.

In the backdrop of Women’s Reservation Bill being presented in the Rajya Sabha on Monday, Abdullah said: ” The bill will pass, Women …. Source  : Women will get real power in India: Farooq Abdullah.

Gujarat tribals demand ownership of forestland

AHMEDABAD – Tribals living in Gujarat has staged a protest here, demanding ownership of forestland, which they are cultivating.

Over 1,000 tribals took part in a rally organised by the NGO, ‘Eklavya Association’.he tribals demanded ownership title of the forestlands. The Gujarat Government is only giving Power of Attorney rights.
“In 2005 the Central Government said that … Read : Gujarat tribals demand ownership of forestland.

Mukherjee says inflation not due to food shortage

MUMBAI – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has said inflation is not due to food shortage.
Mukherjee said the price rise was mainly due to the demand pressure of edible oils, pulses and sugar.

“If you look at the basket of the wholesale prices till date you will find …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Breakthrough in three-year-old Indian boy’s death mystery in Melbourne

MELBOURNE – The mystery behind the death of three-year-old Indian boy Gurshan Singh has taken a twist, after Victoria Police revealed they are hunting for a green Holden Commodore, Australia’s largest and most fuel-efficient V6 engine car, seen near where … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Breakthrough in three-year-old Indian boy’s death mystery in Melbourne.

Prince Harry in ‘horns of dilemma over duty or charity’

LONDON – Prince Harry is reportedly struggling with horns of dilemma after having to choose between his Army career and his charity work.

The third in line to the British throne is presently undergoing training as a helicopter pilot and is expected to win his wings …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Manipur Advocate General injured in shoot-out

IMPHAL – The Advocate General of Manipur, Nongmeikapam Kotiswar Singh, was injured in a militant attack last evening.

According to sources, militants opened fire on Singh as he was returning to Imphal along with Works Minister Ranjit Singh and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Manipur Advocate General injured in shoot-out.

Enormous stress behind Yeltsin’s drinking problem, says daughter

LONDON – Former Russian President Boris Yeltsin’s daughter has acknowledged that her father had a drinking problem, which was brought on by the enormous stress he was under as the leader of a country undergoing tumultuous change.

“There was an alcohol problem but, I think, that when my father did drink, … Read : Enormous stress behind Yeltsin’s drinking problem, says daughter.

Foreigners teach underprivileged children in Varanasi

VARANASI – Foreign teachers have taken up the noble initiative of imparting social and environmental education to the underprivileged children at a school run by the Aghor foundation in Varanasi.

Under the guidance of Baba Harihar Ramji, founder of the Aghor Foundation, the Italian couple, Loknath and Kamala has undertaken a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indore Zoo celebrates birthday of two white tigers

INDORE – Indore Zoo celebrated the birthday of two white tigers living there with an objective to propagate ‘Save Tiger’ amongst the people.

The birthday bash for the tigers Riddhi and Siddhi was organised jointly by the civic authorities and a voluntary organisation. The whole … Read more »»».

Pak actress serves a legal notice to Asif

LAHORE – Pakistani film and TV actress Veena Malik has served a legal notice to her former boyfriend and Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Asif for recovery of Rs 3.4 million.

The notice, sent through her counsel, reportedly states that Asif was given different amounts on different occasions by Veena …. Read the original article  : here.

Indo-Bangladesh border talks begin

NEW DELHI – The six-day conference between the Directors General of Border Security Force (BSF) and Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) began at the BSF headquarters here today.

Raman Shrivastav, BSF Director General, welcomed his counterpart, the BDR chief Major General Mainul Islam, who has come down with a 19-member … Read more >>>.

After FATA, NWFP, US eying Punjab, Karachi and Quetta for ‘disastrous’ war on terror

LAHORE – Jamaat-e-Islami chief Syed Munawwar Hasan has warned that the US is conspiring to extend its never-ending war on terror to Punjab, Karachi and Quetta.

“The drones are now flying over Chaman and Quetta, and there is a possibility of attacks on Karachi in search of the … Read : After FATA, NWFP, US eying Punjab, Karachi and Quetta for ‘disastrous’ war on terror.

1 in 5 Oz women don’t trust men when it comes to shared finances

MELBOURNE – A survey has revealed that when it comes to shared finances 19 percent of Australian women do not trust their partner.

The Women and Money Survey of 1000, conducted by the Westpac Women’s Markets unit, found almost half (47 percent) “believe that …. Source article  : 1 in 5 Oz women don’t trust men when it comes to shared finances.

Jet with 74 aboard makes emergency landing; no injuries

Jet with 74 aboard makes emergency landing

ASPEN, Colorado – Officials say a jet carrying 74 people made an emergency landing at the Aspen airport after smoke entered the pilot’s cabin.
Pitkin County Sheriff’s Deputy Alex Burchetta says SkyWest Airlines flight 5940 made a safe landing Sunday afternoon and there were no reports of injury among the … Original article on : Jet with 74 aboard makes emergency landing; no injuries.

General says Kandahar offensive will wait for US and NATO troop buildup

Kandahar offensive to wait for more troops
KABUL – The top U.S. general in Afghanistan says that an upcoming campaign to secure the city of Kandahar is still some time away.
Without being specific, Gen. Stanley McChrystal says the Kandahar operation will wait for a larger U.S. and NATO troop buildup over the next couple … Original source on Gaea Times at : General says Kandahar offensive will wait for US and NATO troop buildup.

UN offices in Islamabad seek additional security following terror threats

ISLAMABAD – The United Nations has requested the Pakistan Government to deploy additional police and paramilitary personnel to guard their Islamabad offices in the wake of two recent terror threats.

A letter sent by the UN’s resident coordinator in Pakistan to the ministry of foreign affairs identifies 15 …. Read the original article  : here.

Gurshan’s dad says no tension between his family and accused killer

MELBOURNE – The father of murdered three-year-old Gurshan Singh Channa says there was no bad blood between him and his son’s killer, Gursewak Dhillon.peaking through a translator this afternoon, Harjit Singh Channa said he and his son’s accused killer weren’t enemies.

“There were no old frictions in the families,” the … Read more : Gurshan’s dad says no tension between his family and accused killer.

Somali doctor: British yacht couple seized by pirates reunited after weeks of separation

Somali doctor: British yacht couple reunited

MOGADISHU, Somalia – A doctor who treated a British yachting couple seized by Somali pirates says they have been temporarily reunited after weeks apart.
Dr. Mohamed Elmi Hangul of Medina Hospital says Paul and Rachel Chandler were suffering from anxiety from their separation. The two were seized from their yacht Lynn … Read more »».

Shocked Indian community praises Victorian Police for arresting suspect for toddler’s murder

MELBOURNE – The Indian Australian community has praised Victorian Police for their investigation of the death of three-year-old toddler Gurshan Singh, and the arrest of prime suspect Gursewak Dhillon.

Victoria Police denied Indian media reports that claimed that Dhillon’s wife had also been arrested.
“Definitely …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pak police close to recovering abducted UK-born boy: Malik

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Interior Minister Rehman Malik insists that police are close to recovering abducted five-year-old UK-born Sahil Saeed.

“I am hopeful that we will be able to recover the boy within the next few days. I appeal to those who did it that they release the child within 48 hours,” The …. Read the original article  : Pak police close to recovering abducted UK-born boy: Malik.

Gurshan’s parents thank police, Victorians for response to their tragedy

MELBOURNE – The parents of three-year-old Gurshan Singh, whose body was found in grassland behind Melbourne airport, have thanked the Victorian people and police for their response to the tragedy.

An Indian national, who shared a house in Lalor with the victim … Read more »»».

Head of Iraq election commission says results to historic vote expected in days

Iraq election commision head says results in days

BAGHDAD – The head of Iraq’s election commission says results to the country’s historic election will be announced in a few days.
Faraj al-Haidari told The Associated Press that the preliminary results will be announced within two or three days, most likely on Thursday.
Haidari said turnout figures could be … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Head of Iraq election commission says results to historic vote expected in days.

Pak Law Minister nominates himself for lucrative foreign assignment

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Law Minister Babar Awan has reportedly nominated himself for an international assignment worth millions of dollars.

According to reports, the Law Ministry has put Awan’s name at the top of the four-member list of legal experts recommended to the International Arbitration …. Original article  : Pak Law Minister nominates himself for lucrative foreign assignment.

Asia-Pacific region has one of the world’s worst gender gaps: UNDP

NEW DELHI – While Asia and the Pacific can take pride in the region’s vibrant economic transformation in recent decades, this has not translated into progress on gender equality.

Discrimination and neglect are threatening women’s very survival in the Asia-Pacific …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Asia-Pacific region has one of the world’s worst gender gaps: UNDP.

Former aide says Musharraf has no intention to return to Pakistan

LAHORE – A senior aide of General (r) Pervez Musharraf has revealed that the former Pakistan President has no intention of returning to the country.

Musharraf’s former principal secretary, Tariq Aziz, told reporters at the Lakhpat Race Club on Sunday that in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Aafia Siddiqi’s uncle says she visited him in Islamabad to meet Taliban

WASHINGTON – The uncle of terrorism-accused Pakistani national, Dr Aafia Siddiqi, has told a New York jury that the neuroscientist visited him in Islamabad in January 2008, asking him to help her to reach the Taliban in Afghanistan.

The News quoted the New York Times as … Read : Aafia Siddiqi’s uncle says she visited him in Islamabad to meet Taliban.

One killed in police recruitment drive stampede in Mumbai

MUMBAI – One person was killed and eleven injured in a stampede at the Kalina Ground here today.

The stampede occurred during a police recruitment drive.
Over 10,000 candidates had gathered for the recruitment drive. When the gate was opened, all candidates rushed in, resulting in the stampede.
Mumbai’s Additional Police Commissioner …. Source  : One killed in police recruitment drive stampede in Mumbai.

Ta Ta! Germany’s Daimler unloads its shares in India’s Tata Motors

Germany’s Daimler sells shares in India’s Tata

BERLIN – German automaker Daimler AG says it has sold all of its shares in India’s Tata Motors to various groups of investors through the capital markets.
The automaker, based in Stuttgart, said in a statement Tuesday that it will receive some euro300 million ($410 million) for its 5.34 percent …. Original source  : Ta Ta! Germany’s Daimler unloads its shares in India’s Tata Motors.

Pak likely to offer ‘deal’ to Karzai over Baradar’s extradition during his Islamabad visit

ISLAMABAD – Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai is likely to officially ask Islamabad to hand over Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Afghan Taliban’s second-in command, to Kabul during his scheduled two-day visit to Pakistan starting Wednesday.

According to …. Read the original article  : Pak likely to offer ‘deal’ to Karzai over Baradar’s extradition during his Islamabad visit.

‘Someone close to family’ involved in Brit toddler’s abduction: Malik

LONDON – Claiming that the agencies are close to solve the case concerning the kidnapping of British toddler, Sahil Saeed, Pakistan Interior Minister Rehman Malik has said that there is growing evidence of involvement of some family members in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

London Eye celebrates 10th birthday today

LONDON – The iconic London Eye, the largest Ferris wheel across Europe, has turned a decade old today.

As part of the celebrations today, all visitors to the observation wheel will enjoy a free champagne glass and a light show, reports Sky News.
The … Original article on : London Eye celebrates 10th birthday today.

Oz serial road offender blames stab in the back during sex for his troubles

MELBOURNE – An Australian man booked 11th time for unlicensed driving says his woes began when he was stabbed in the back while having sex.

Peter Maxwell Riddle, 48, confessed driving without a license before a Darwin court after getting busted on October 7.
According to NT news, defence lawyer Ambrith Abayasekara … Read more : Oz serial road offender blames stab in the back during sex for his troubles.

Minimum Wages In Delhi Hiked

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Delhi workers have a reason to feel happy about. The Delhi cabinet gave its nod to a hike in the pay scale of semi skilled, skilled as well as unskilled workers on Monday. The hike ranges up to 33 percent, which is quite a positive development for these workers. …. Read the original article  : here.

Oil drops to near $81 in Asia, pausing after 18 percent jump over last month

Oil drops to near $81 after monthlong run-up

SINGAPORE – Oil prices dropped to near $81 a barrel Tuesday in Asia, losing momentum after a monthlong run-up fueled by growing investor optimism about global economic growth.
Benchmark crude for April delivery was down 68 cents to $81.19 a barrel at late afternoon Singapore time in electronic trading …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Oil drops to near $81 in Asia, pausing after 18 percent jump over last month.

Weddings begin in nation’s capital for same-sex couples; 300 have applied so far for licenses

Washington weddings begin for same-sex couples

WASHINGTON – It’s a day of wedding bells for some gay couples in Washington.
Tuesday is the first day same-sex couples can pick up marriage licenses and tie the knot in the city. Some couples planned quick ceremonies at a church or gay rights group’s office while others said they’ll wait …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Weddings begin in nation’s capital for same-sex couples; 300 have applied so far for licenses.

Women’s Reservation Bill: Unruly Rajya Sabha MPs suspended for rest of session

NEW DELHI – Seven Rajya Sabha MPs, who had created a ruckus on Monday during the tabling of the Women’s Reservation Bill, were suspended for the rest of Parliament session on Tuesday.

The suspended MPs are: Nand Kishore Yadav (Samajwadi Party), Kamal …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Josef Fritzl ’scared for his life in prison’

LONDON – Josef Fritzl, the Austrian man who is serving life after he confessed to keeping his daughter Elisabeth as a sex slave in a dungeon, has had two prisoners transferred after he became convinced they were plotting to kill him, it has emerged.

The Daily Star reports, a …. Read the original article  : here.

Palin raising cash for McCain by offering donors chance to get clicked with her

LONDON – Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin is raising cash for her former running mate Senator John McCain by offering donors a chance for a picture with her at the Arizona Biltmore reception.

McCain donors can attend an hour-long reception with Palin and get a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Palin raising cash for McCain by offering donors chance to get clicked with her.

Al-Qaeda fanatic offers ‘golden opportunity’ to launch terror attacks on US, UK

LONDON – A top al-Qaeda fanatic is offering “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to Muslims extremists to launch terror attacks on the US, Britain and Israel.

In an online rant, US-born Adam Gadahn called on fanatics living in “America, Britain and Israel” to attack “enemies of Islam.”
He urged recruits to copy ex-London student Umar Abdulmutallab, …. Read the original article  : here.

Launching Mideast visit, Biden sees “moment of opportunity” for Israelis and Palestinians

Biden sees “moment of opportunity” in Mideast

JERUSALEM – U.S. Vice President Joseph Biden says there is a “moment of opportunity” for peace between Israelis and Palestinians.
Biden is making the highest-level visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories by an Obama administration official.
Ahead of a meeting with Israeli President Shimon Peres on Tuesday, Biden also said …. Read the original article  : Launching Mideast visit, Biden sees “moment of opportunity” for Israelis and Palestinians.

Govt panel confirms Cold War-era ’secret’ pacts between Japan and US, ending long denial

Japan confirms Cold War-era ’secret’ pacts with US
TOKYO – A Japanese government-appointed panel on Tuesday confirmed the existence of once-secret Cold War-era pacts between Japan and the U.S. on nuclear arms and other issues, ending decades of official denial by Tokyo.
While declassified U.S. documents have already confirmed such 1960s agreements, Tuesday’s revelation … Read more »»».

Nigeria: Rights group, US call for inquiry, credible prosecutions after religious violence

Nigeria: Calls for inquiry into religious violence

JOS, Nigeria – The U.S. government and an international human rights group are calling on Nigeria to properly investigate and prosecute those responsible for slaughtering more than 200 unarmed people in renewed religious violence.
Human Rights Watch said Tuesday that Acting President Goodluck Jonathan also must provide police and military …. Source article  : Nigeria: Rights group, US call for inquiry, credible prosecutions after religious violence.

Victoria Police seeking help from woman in Gurshan Singh’s death mystery

MELBOURNE – Victoria Police has revealed that they are looking for a woman, who is believed to have assisted the three-year-old Indian toddler’s murder accused when his car broke down in Melbourne’s northern suburbs on last Thursday.

Gurshan Singh is alleged to have been in the car’s boot driven by … Read : Victoria Police seeking help from woman in Gurshan Singh’s death mystery.

“Our son still in front of our eyes,” says Gurshan Singh’s heartbroken mother

MELBOURNE – Three-year-old Indian toddler Gurshan Singh’s mother has spoken for the first time since the shocking incident, and described him as “beautiful boy” who still appears to her.

Gurshan’s body was found near Melbourne Airport on Thursday night, about 30 kilometers from … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : “Our son still in front of our eyes,” says Gurshan Singh’s heartbroken mother.

Pak officials yet to confirm Al-Qaeda’s US-born spokesman’s arrest

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani authorities are yet to confirm reports regarding the arrest of US-born Al-Qaeda spokesperson, Adam Yahiye Gadahn, who was apparently nabbed in Karachi a few days ago.

Gadahn, who is 14th on the FBI’s list of most wanted terrorists for lending support to Al-Qaeda, was … Read more >>.

US rejects reports regarding NATO aircraft violating Pak airspace

ISLAMABAD – The United States has rejected reports regarding NATO aircraft violating Pakistan’s airspace over Balochistan.

A statement issued by the US Embassy here, described media reports regarding NATO planes violating Pakistan’s airspace in Balochistan’s Chaman area on … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US rejects reports regarding NATO aircraft violating Pak airspace.

Government forced us to tear Women Reservation Bill: Mulayam

NEW DELHI – Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Mulayam Singh Yadav today said that the government forced them to behave badly in Parliament by tearing the Women Reservation Bill copy.

Lawmakers of Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) had stormed the well of the house on … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Government forced us to tear Women Reservation Bill: Mulayam.

Romanian govt to declassify secret documents on the country’s 1989 anti-communist revolution

Romania declassifies all 1989 revolution documents

BUCHAREST, Romania – The Romanian government will declassify all remaining secret documents relating to the country’s 1989 anti-communist revolution.
Prime Minister Emil Boc said the move would allow the truth to come out without endangering “state secrets” 21 years after the bloody uprising.
The defense ministry said it would declassify over 8,000 … Read more >>.

Thriller or pale ghost of ‘Phantom’? ‘Love Never Dies’ gets mixed reviews from London critics

Critics mixed on Lloyd Webber’s ‘Love Never Dies’

LONDON – Andrew Lloyd Webber’s latest musical extravaganza has received a mixed reception from London critics.
Some say “Love Never Dies” – a sequel to “Phantom of the Opera” set in a Coney island fun fair – is a thrilling ride. Others think it lacks “Phantom”’s menace – and …. Original article  : Thriller or pale ghost of ‘Phantom’? ‘Love Never Dies’ gets mixed reviews from London critics.

Gurkha activists’ fury over British minister’s attack on cause campaigner Joanna Lumley

LONDON – British Defence Minister Kevan Jones came under fire after accusing Gurkha campaigner Joanna Lumley of “deathly silence” over the allegations that war veterans hoping to settle in UK are being forced to pay hundreds of pounds for legal advice in Nepal.

Gurkha campaigners … Original source on Gaea Times at : Gurkha activists’ fury over British minister’s attack on cause campaigner Joanna Lumley.

Condolence letters after JFK’s assassination published

WASHINGTON – Condolence letters sent to President John F. Kennedy’s widow Jackie after his assassination in 1963 have been published in a new book.

As many as 200 notes were selected from the 1.5 million condolence letters to feature in “Letters to Jackie: …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Condolence letters after JFK’s assassination published.

India meddling into Pak through Afghanistan: FO

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has once again blamed India of meddling in its internal issues through Afghanistan.

In an interview with Geo News, Foreign Office spokesperson Abdul Basit said Islamabad would raise the issue of India’s interference with Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai during …. Read the original article  : here.

Soldiers open fire on youths in Nigerian town tense after religious killings; 2 killed

Nigerian soldiers open fire on youths; 2 killed

JOS, Nigeria – Soldiers opened fire on a crowd after curfew and killed two people, witnesses said Wednesday, just days after fighting between Christians and Muslims in the area left more than 200 dead including dozens of children.
Hundreds of people swarmed the streets of Jos on Wednesday morning, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Soldiers open fire on youths in Nigerian town tense after religious killings; 2 killed.

Ruchika case hearing adjourned till April 15

CHANDIGARH – A Chandigarh court on Wednesday adjourned the hearing of the Ruchika Girhotra molestation case, which involves former Haryana Director General of Police (DGP) SPS Rathore till April 15 on the plea that his lawyer was still recovering from an assault on him last month.

Rathore arrived in the court accompanied by his lawyer-wife Abha …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ruchika case hearing adjourned till April 15.

Indonesian President admits Bali bomber killed in Jakarta raid

JAKARTA – Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has confirmed that Jemaah Islamiah leader Dulmatin, the key accused in 2002 Bali bombings, has been killed in a raid in Jakarta.

While authorities in Jakarta continued to insist that they are yet to complete forensic test to establish that Dulmatin has been killed, Dr Yudhoyono made the surprise … Read : Indonesian President admits Bali bomber killed in Jakarta raid.

Indian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur urged to include signs in Tamil

KUALA LUMPUR – The Indian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur has been urged to include Tamil on its signage, as approximately 75 percent people using its facilities speak Tamil.

The Star Online quoted Alternative Action Team president B. Kalaivanar as saying that airline companies like Air India, Indian Airlines and Jet Airways should also include Tamil …. Original article  : Indian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur urged to include signs in Tamil.

Pakistan’s campaign on water issue against India, Real or a Charade?

NEW DELHI – The Kashmir issue which has been the main rallying point to galvanize support across the social, political and military spectrum of Pakistan for decades seems to be loosing its magic to stoke anti -India sentiments.

Civil society of Pakistan seems to have understood the repercussions state policy of espousing terrorism , following …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan’s campaign on water issue against India, Real or a Charade?.

Shortage of 14,448 officers in Army, Navy and Air Force

NEW DELHI – The Armed Forces are no more considered a viable career option and implementation of the Sixth Pay Commission to make the Services more attractive has not been able to reduce the shortage of 14,448 officers in the Army, the Navy and the Air Force.

The Defence Ministry which is engaged in the task … Read more >>>.

Guwahati to have first five-star hotel

GUWAHATI – Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has laid the foundation stone of Rs 90-crore first five star hotel by Taj Group – Taj Vivanta, in Guwahati in the presence of Ratan Tata, chairman of Tata Sons.

Gogoi said this project has been a much-awaited dream of the people residing in the entire region and it … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Guwahati to have first five-star hotel.

Magic of ’70s and ’80s recreated at grand finale of Lakme India Fashion Week

MUMBAI – The grand finale of the Lakme India Fashion Week (LIFW) saw designer Suneet Verma spectacularly recreating the magic of the ’70s and ’80s with his collection titled ‘Night Fever’.

His collection was divided into five segments – ‘Color My World’, ‘Call of the Wild’, ‘Pucchi Prints’, ‘Preppy Argyle’ and ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’.
“What … Read more »»».

Balanced budget or jobs? Meatpackers say Indiana inspection cuts will hurt growing businesses

Meatpackers say inspection cuts are shortsighted

INDIANAPOLIS – Farmers and small meatpackers in Indiana say they are worried the state’s plan to lay off some meat inspectors to save money could hurt one of the state’s few growing industries.
Their fears highlight a dilemma lawmakers in many states face as they struggle to balance budgets: How deeply … Original article on : Balanced budget or jobs? Meatpackers say Indiana inspection cuts will hurt growing businesses.

AP source: Since Christmas Day attack near Detroit, no-fly list nearly doubles to 6,000

AP source: No-fly list nearly doubles since attack
WASHINGTON – An intelligence official says the government has nearly doubled the number of people on the no-fly list since the attempted Christmas Day attack near Detroit.
The official says that in the two months since a Nigerian man tried to blow up a Detroit-bound airplane, the …. Source article  : AP source: Since Christmas Day attack near Detroit, no-fly list nearly doubles to 6,000.

Chidambaram calls on CISF to start R and D unit

GHAZIABAD – Union Home Minister P Chidambaram on Wednesday asked the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) to come up with its own Research and Development (Rand D) wing to meet the growing demands of a changing security scenario.

Interacting with media, on the sidelines of the CISF’s 41st Raising Day, Chidambaram said: “CISF is not like …. Source  : Chidambaram calls on CISF to start R and D unit.

Dozen couples say ‘I do’ on first day legal same-sex ceremonies allowed in DC; more on way

Dozen same-sex couple tie knot in DC
WASHINGTON – At least a dozen couples tied the knot in the District of Columbia on the first day same-sex ceremonies were legally allowed, and many more unions were on the way.

The district on Tuesday became the sixth place nationwide where gay couples can legally get married, joining Connecticut, …. Source  : Dozen couples say ‘I do’ on first day legal same-sex ceremonies allowed in DC; more on way.

Soldiers open fire on youths in Nigerian town tense after religious killings

Nigeria: Soldiers open fire on youths
JOS, Nigeria – Witnesses say soldiers in a Nigerian town at the center of a spate of religious killings opened fire on a crowd of youths that had surrounded a cattle truck driving after curfew.

A nurse told The Associated Press on Wednesday that at least two were killed and five … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Soldiers open fire on youths in Nigerian town tense after religious killings.

Gurshan’s alleged killer may be living in Australia on a fake passport

CANBERRA – Claims that the man charged with the manslaughter of three-year-old Gurshan Singh Channa is living in Australia on a fake passport is being investigated by Australian immigration officials.

“Allegations have been made that the man charged is being investigated for possible … Read more »».

Four Indians charred to death in saree shop fire in Malaysia

MASAI – Four Indian nationals were charred to death in a suspected arson attack that engulfed a five double-storey saree shop in Masai, Malaysia.

Two of the victims had arrived here just two days ago to work here as salesmen.
All four, believed to be in their 20s, have yet … Read more : Four Indians charred to death in saree shop fire in Malaysia.

PPP says no proposal under consideration for granting extension to Kayani

LAHORE – The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has denied there being any proposal being considered regarding extending the service of Army Chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani.

Interacting with media persons during a press conference here, PPP Central Secretary Information Fauzia Wahab said …. Original article  : PPP says no proposal under consideration for granting extension to Kayani.

Kayani, Pasha continue Pak’s traditional anti-India agenda: NYT

NEW YORK – The report regarding Pakistan Army Chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani extending the tenure of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Director General (DG) Lt.Gen. Ahmed Shuja Pasha by a year clearly suggests that nothing much has changed in the country and two still rule the …. Read the original article  : Kayani, Pasha continue Pak’s traditional anti-India agenda: NYT.

China orders reporters trained in Marxist, communist theory to weed out politically incorrect

China orders reporters trained in Marxist theory

BEIJING – China will toughen requirements for reporters by launching a new certification system that requires training in Marxist and communist theories of news, a media official said, citing problems with the current crop of mainland journalists.
The South China Morning Post reported Thursday that Li Dongdong, deputy director of … Read more »».

Clashes between Islamists, Somali government continues into second day after 23 killed

Fighting in Somali capital continues after 23 dead

MOGADISHU, Somalia – Fighting between Islamist insurgents and government forces continued for a second day in the Somali capital as medical officials say at least 23 people died in the clashes.
The head of Mogadishu’s ambulance service, Ali Muse, said Thursday he saw 20 bodies Wednesday after fighting broke … Original source on Gaea Times at : Clashes between Islamists, Somali government continues into second day after 23 killed.

UK’s ‘racist’ Met Police accused of ‘excessive’ stops of ethnic minorities

LONDON – Britain’s Metropolitan police was responsible for 120,000 ‘excessive’ stops against people from ethnic minorities in 2008/9, according to the official equalities watchdog.

The Metropolitan Police force has been identified as the biggest offender and placed under the most pressure by the report.
According … Read more : UK’s ‘racist’ Met Police accused of ‘excessive’ stops of ethnic minorities.

Fifth suspect emerges in murder of Indian shopkeeper in UK

HUDDERSFIELD – A fifth man has been accused and charged with the murder of Indian shopkeeper Gurmail Singh, who was beaten to death during an alleged robbery at his store in Huddersfield, UK, on February 20.

Police said that 20-year-old Umare Aslam has been charged with Singh’s …. Source article  : Fifth suspect emerges in murder of Indian shopkeeper in UK.

Pak Law Minister says kidnapped Brit toddler found

LONDON/ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Law Minister Babar Awan has revealed that a five-year-old British boy kidnapped in Pakistan has been found.

Sky News quoted Awan as saying that toddler Sahil Saeed was found yesterday, but news of his freedom had been kept quiet for safety reasons and the case is still shrouded in …. Read the original article  : Pak Law Minister says kidnapped Brit toddler found.

Man earns Guinness World Record for world’s largest house of cards!

LONDON – An American man has earned himself a Guinness World Record after he built the world’s largest ever house of cards.

Bryan Berg, 34, an architect, used 218,792 cards on a giant replica of China’s Venetian Macau hotel.
His effort, now … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Man earns Guinness World Record for world’s largest house of cards!.

Vatican fury over Rome school’s condom vending machines installation

LONDON – The headmaster of a school in Rome has come under criticism from the Vatican after he installed condom vending machines for students.

Critics in the Vatican have seen the move, as a matter of “deep concern”, while supporters say it is “evidence of great courage”, with the headmaster … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Vatican fury over Rome school’s condom vending machines installation.

Major fire engulfs central London office block

LONDON – More than 100 firefighters are tackling a major fire that started in a restaurant and office block in central London.

According to the BBC, the flames took hold just after 4 a.m.GMT at the building in Tabernacle Street, Shoreditch.
Some 20 fire engines are at the …. Read the original article  : Major fire engulfs central London office block.

Israel’s Netanyahu reprimands minister over poor handling of settlement flap

Israel PM reprimands minister over settlement flap

JERUSALEM – Israel’s prime minister has reprimanded a top official over the announcement of new settlement construction during a high-profile visit by Vice President Joe Biden.
But Benjamin Netanyahu is giving no indication that he will reverse the order.
Earlier this week, Israel’s Interior Ministry announced plans to build 1,600 new … Read more >>>.

BP to buy exploration rights in Brazil, Azerbaijan, Gulf of Mexico from Devon Energy for $7B

BP to pay $7 billion for exploration rights

LONDON – Oil company BP PLC says it will pay $7 billion to acquire exploration rights in Brazil, Azerbaijan and the Gulf of Mexico from Devon Energy Corp.
BP will buy the rights for 10 offshore exploration blocks in Brazil, a portfolio of rights in the U.S. Gulf of … Original source on Gaea Times at : BP to buy exploration rights in Brazil, Azerbaijan, Gulf of Mexico from Devon Energy for $7B.

Brit Muslim call centre worker facing terror charges

LONDON – A British Muslim man, who worked at a British Airways call centre, has been charged with preparing an act of terrorism.

According to The Telegraph, Rajib Karim, 30, from Newcastle was charged with preparing an act of terrorism or assisting another person to commit an act of terrorism between the April 13 2006 and …. Original source  : Brit Muslim call centre worker facing terror charges.

Chinese Navy has no plan for overseas bases: Ex-deputy chief

BEIJING – The Chinese Navy will not seek to build military bases overseas, a retired senior officer has said amid media reports that the country harbours such “ambitions”.

Rear Admiral (retired) Zhang Deshun, who was till recently the deputy chief of staff of the PLA navy, said a naval force with advanced armaments and enhanced capabilities …. Original source  : Chinese Navy has no plan for overseas bases: Ex-deputy chief.

Kidnapped Brit toddler’s father returns to London from Pakistan

LONDON – Notwithstanding the demand of Pakistani police officials, the father of the kidnapped five-year old boy, Sahil Saeed, who was abducted from his grandmother’s house in Punjab’s Jhelum last week, has returned to London.

Sahil’s father, Raja Saeed, reportedly took a flight back to London even as Pakistan Interior Minister Rehman Malik said the police … Read more : Kidnapped Brit toddler’s father returns to London from Pakistan.

Centre ready for all-party meet to discuss Women’s Reservation Bill: Pranab Mukherjee

NEW DELHI – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Thursday said the Central Government is ready to call for an all-party meeting to discuss the Women’s Reservation Bill.

“Leaders from all political outfits will be called for the meeting,” said Mukherjee.
“Several other issues would also be discussed in the all-party meeting,” he added.
Countering the charges made by … Read more »»».

Kansas City, Mo., board shuttering almost half the district’s schools to avoid going broke

Kansas City, Mo., faces mass school closures

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Facing potential bankruptcy, the Kansas City school board is shuttering almost half the district’s schools.
Administrators say the closures are necessary to keep the district from plowing through what little is left of the $2 billion it received as part of a groundbreaking desegregation case. The … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kansas City, Mo., board shuttering almost half the district’s schools to avoid going broke.

Thackeray ‘bahu’ visits parliament, wants to join Congress

NEW DELHI – Shiv Sena supremo Balasaheb Thackeray’s daughter-in-law Smita Thackeray visited Parliament today and met with Congress leaders, whom she refused to name.

She, however, showered praise on Congress president Sonia Gandhi, describing her as her inspiration and lauded Rahul Gandhi’s style of politics.
Thackeray categorically expressed her desire to join the Congress and to …. Original article  : Thackeray ‘bahu’ visits parliament, wants to join Congress.

Tourists enjoy paragliding in Solang Nala

SOLANG NALA – Adventure-lovers and sports enthusiasts are making a beeline to picturesque Solang Nala in Himachal Pradesh, for paragliding.

Flying over snowy peaks of Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas give tourists a thrilling experience.
There are more than hundred trained pilots and more [..] Read the original article: here.

Kochi king’s palace in Kerala being beautified

TRIPUNITHURA /KOCHI – Special masons and experts are on their way to Kochi to give a restoration touch to an erstwhile palace used by Kochi Kings.

The magnificent hill palace at Thripunithura in Kerala’s Ernakulam district was …. Original article  : Kochi king’s palace in Kerala being beautified.

Rhinos in Kaziranga to have special guards

KAZIRANGA – The Border Security Force (BSF) personnel have been deployed at the Kaziranga National Park in Assam to protect endangered rhinos from poachers.

Famous for its one-horned rhinoceros, the park has become an easy target for the poachers, who navigate the Brahmaputra River surrounding the … Original article on : Rhinos in Kaziranga to have special guards.

Two NDFB militants killed in Assam

CHIRAG – Security forces killed two militants of the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) in an encounter in Assam’s Chirag District on Friday early hours.

According to Assam Police, the incident took place at Dadangiri village in Chirang District, which is about 170 kilometers from Guwahati.
The …. Original article  : Two NDFB militants killed in Assam.

Railways earn Rs 157.47 crore through commercial advertising in trains

NEW DELHI – Minister of State for Railways E Ahamed in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha on Friday said earning through commercial advertising including advertising on trains during the year 2008-09 was Rs. 157.47 crore.

“The amount spent on administration and … Read : Railways earn Rs 157.47 crore through commercial advertising in trains.

Britain must “seriously consider” banning burkhas in public: Hollobone

LONDON – British politician Philip Hollobone has urged ministers to “seriously consider” banning burkhas in public, saying the full-face burkha was “oppressive and regressive” to advancement of women.

Addressing the Commons debate to mark this week’s …. Source article  : Britain must “seriously consider” banning burkhas in public: Hollobone.

Serial bomb blasts in Lahore kill five, injure 40 others

LAHORE – Lahore was once again rocked on Friday noon with a series of bomb blasts ripping apart a crowded market place in the Cantonment area of the city killing at least five persons and injuring over 40 others.

According to initial reports, at least three deafening … Read : Serial bomb blasts in Lahore kill five, injure 40 others.

Duke of Edinburgh asks navy cadet if she worked in a strip club!

LONDON – A female sea cadet was surprised when the Duke of Edinburgh asked her if she worked at a strip club.rince Philip threw the question before Elizabeth Rendle, 24, as he and The Queen met cadets at Wyvern barracks in Exeter, Devon.

When Rendle was asked what she did for a living … Read more »»».

Somali official tells residents to flee battle zones as fighting flares for a third day

Somali official to residents: Flee battle zones

MOGADISHU, Somalia – A Somali official is urging residents to avoid battle zones in the country’s capital as violence flares ahead of a planned offensive against Islamist insurgents.
Mogadishu Mayor Abdurisaq Mohamed Nor wants citizens at least a couple miles (kilometers) away from battle zones. Residents in Mogadishu are often … Read : Somali official tells residents to flee battle zones as fighting flares for a third day.

China fires back at criticism, says US ignores its own problems on human rights

China fires back at US human rights criticisms
BEIJING – China accused the United States of destabilizing the world economy and meddling on Friday – its standard response to Washington’s annual review of Beijing’s human rights record.
The U.S. report issued Thursday accused Beijing of abusing its citizens’ rights and maintaining currency policies that cost …. Source  : China fires back at criticism, says US ignores its own problems on human rights.

IEA lifts 2010 oil demand forecast as surging Chinese growth offsets flagging OECD demand

Global oil demand seen higher in 2010
PARIS – World oil demand will rise this year due to surging economic activity in Asian countries, especially China, the International Energy Agency said Friday as it bumped up its forecasts.

The Paris-based IEA, which advises oil-consuming countries, predicted in its monthly report that oil demand will average 86.6 million …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : IEA lifts 2010 oil demand forecast as surging Chinese growth offsets flagging OECD demand.

Pakistan Navy tests missile

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Navy tested missiles and torpedoes in the Arabian Sea, authorities said Friday.

The Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the missiles and torpedoes were fired from F22 Frigate, P3c and Agosta 90 b submarine, Xinhua news agency reported.
…. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan Navy tests missile.

‘Diana died after plan to frighten her into leaving lover went horribly wrong’

LONDON – Britain’s best-known defence lawyer has claimed that the death of Princess Diana was brought about by a failed attempt to frighten her into leaving lover Dodi Fayed.

Michael Mansfield QC, who represented Dodi’s father, Mohamed Al Fayed, at the six-month inquest in 2008 into the couple’s deaths, said he was sure Diana’s killers had … Read more >>>.

Brit hardcore porn director eyes Parliament seat

LONDON – A British female hardcore porn director has announced that she will be running for Parliament in the next election.

Anna Arrowsmith, 38, who is boss of adult film firm Easy on the Eye, said her decision to stand for the Liberal Democrats in Gravesham, Kent, was because she was disgusted with the MPs expenses [..] Read the original article: here.

Judge to hear plan to pay $657M to WTC rescuers, recovery workers who sued over 9/11 illnesses

Judge to hear plan to pay $657M to WTC responders

NEW YORK – A settlement that could pay up to $657.5 million to workers sickened by dust from the destroyed World Trade Center is going before a judge.
Lawyers for the city, construction companies and the workers are to appear before U.S. District Judge Alvin Hellerstein on …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Judge to hear plan to pay $657M to WTC rescuers, recovery workers who sued over 9/11 illnesses.

British Airways’ terror-accused employee wanted to go to Pakistan for training

LONDON – A British Airways employee, who was allegedly planning to carry out a suicide attack after being placed in airline’s strike-busting cabin crew, had offered his Al Qaeda chiefs to travel to Yemen and Pakistan to be trained, a British court was told.

Karim is believed to have asked al-Qaeda chiefs for permission and directions … Read more »»».

Victoria is Indian visitors favourite holiday visit

MELBOURNE – More Indians than ever are holidaying in Victoria despite a spate of attacks on students from the subcontinent, says state Tourism Minister Tim Holding.

The Tourism Research Australia survey released yesterday revealed the number of Indians visiting Victoria rose 26 per cent in the year ending December 2009 compared with the same period in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Victoria is Indian visitors favourite holiday visit.

Left walks out of Lok Sabha over price rise issue

NEW DELHI – The Left Parties on Friday staged a walk out of the Lok Sabha over the issue of price rise.

Left MPs, who walked out of the Lok Sabha, demanded ‘White Paper’ on the price rise situation from the Central Government.
The Left parties, meanwhile, are expected to hold a protest rally today to put …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Israel declares two-day closure of West Bank to head off unrest

Israel seals off West Bank to prevent unrest

JERUSALEM – Israel has sealed off the West Bank for 48 hours, preventing Palestinians from entering Israel because of fears of unrest.
There have been clashes after Friday prayers at mosques in Jerusalem and elsewhere in recent weeks, sparked by deadlock in peace talks and Israel’s inclusion of two …. Source article  : Israel declares two-day closure of West Bank to head off unrest.

China praises India, but tells Dalai Lama to stop separatist activities

BEIJING – While praising the Indian Government for cracking down on anti-Chinese activities on its soil, the Chinese Foreign Ministry has called on Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, to stop indulging in separatist activities and create conducive conditions for talks with Beijing.

“The Dalai distorts the true situation in Tibet. He attacks and insults the … Read more »»».

UN demands war crime investigation against Burma’s military junta

GENEVA – Ahead of this year’s controversial Burmese elections, a senior UN official has called for an inquiry against the country’s military rulers into allegations of war crimes perpetrated against Burmese civilians.

UN’s Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Burma, Tom??s Ojea Quintana, has described “a pattern of gross and systematic violation of human rights” which … Read more : UN demands war crime investigation against Burma’s military junta.

Red ants a delicacy for Jharkhand tribals

MARGUHNDA – The sight of a column of soldier ants can frighten anyone, but for the tribals of Jharkhand, these ants indicate a good meal.

The tribals catch the soldier ants, also called red ants, mainly found on trees and eat them along with their eggs, either raw or cooked.
Tribal elders believe red ants have … Original article on : Red ants a delicacy for Jharkhand tribals.

Pak must weed out its ’strategic asset’ extremist groups for survival: Editorial

ISLAMABAD – Friday’s serial bomb blasts in Lahore was the second terrorist strike in the city within a week which clearly suggests that claims regarding inflicting a body blow to extremists organisations breeding on the country’s soil were premature.

Soon after militants struck in Lahore, … Read more >>.

Pakistan Air Force to conduct massive exercise

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Air Force (PAF) will conduct its biggest exercise in the third week of this month. It will cover the entire country from Skardu in the north to Arabian Sea in the south and will last 45 days.

Quoting sources, Dawn reported that Exercise High Mark-2010 will “be different from all previous exercises … Read : Pakistan Air Force to conduct massive exercise.

Shia cleric oppose Women’s Reservation Bill

ALLAHABAD – Leading Shia cleric and scholar Maulana Kalbe Jawwad has opposed Women’s Reservation Bill.

Addressing reporters here on Friday, Jawwad said that God has created women to bring up their children in a better way, and not for delivering speeches in public.
“Women are not created for doing horse-riding or … Read : Shia cleric oppose Women’s Reservation Bill.

36,000 New York cabbies involved in massive 8.3-mn dollar meter scam

NEW YORK – The United States authorities have found that nearly 36,000 drivers in New York overcharged a staggering 8.3 million dollars on 1.8 million trips through a scam generated by the simple press of a button.

The illegal income came during a 26-month period reviewed by the Taxi and Limousine Commission using … Read more >>>.

US Congress told of unholy LET-ISI nexus

NEW DELHI – Majority of think tanks and experts have informed the US Congress of the close coordination between the Lashkar-e-Toiba and the Inter Services Intelligence organization of Pakistan in promoting Islamic militancy in south Asia.

They also told …. Original article  : US Congress told of unholy LET-ISI nexus.

20-year-old survives after being buried for 54 hours in China landslide

NEW DELHI – A young Chinese man survived after being buried for 54 hours in a landslide in Zizhou in Shaanxi province.

Cao Lele, 20, was pulled out of the debris by the rescuers who were surprised to see him alive after being buried for 54 … Read : 20-year-old survives after being buried for 54 hours in China landslide.

Intimate gifts reveal Queen Victoria, Prince Albert’s passionate relationship

LONDON – The passionate relationship that Queen Victoria and Prince Albert had, has been revealed through the intimate gifts the two had showered upon one another.

The royal treasures, which have never been seen before, include gold bracelets fashioned with stags’ teeth and sensual paintings commissioned as …. Read the original article  : Intimate gifts reveal Queen Victoria, Prince Albert’s passionate relationship.

Prada manager sues firm over order to ‘get rid of old, fat and ugly’ staff

LONDON – A senior manager at Prada is suing the fashion label after she was ordered to get rid of “old, fat and ugly” staff working at its stores in Japan.

Rina Bovrisse, a senior retail manager at Prada Japan, also alleges that the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Prada manager sues firm over order to ‘get rid of old, fat and ugly’ staff.

Set clocks ahead, daylight time returning Sunday morning

Daylight-saving time: It’s back
WASHINGTON – America is springing forward.

Most Americans trade an hour’s sleep this weekend for more evening sunshine to enjoy after work.
Officially the change to daylight saving time occurs at 2 a.m. Sunday, local time, though most folks set their clocks and watches ahead an hour before going to bed on Saturday.
In areas … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Set clocks ahead, daylight time returning Sunday morning.

Men, not ladies, first: we’re still sexist in writing

LONDON – Putting male names before female names in writing is a remnant of sexist thinking, a new study says.

The study was conducted by Peter Hegarty and his colleagues at the University of Surrey.
“In the 16th century, naming men before women became the acceptable word-order to use because of the thinking that men … Read more : Men, not ladies, first: we’re still sexist in writing.

Nepal army chief refuses to induct Maoist fighters en masse

KATHMANDU – Nepal Army chief General Chhatraman Singh Gurung has refused to hire fighters from the opposition Maoist party’s guerrilla army en masse.

Gurung, who became army chief last year after his predecessor, General Rookmangud Katawal, caused the collapse of the Maoist government, told visiting UN Under Secretary-General for Political Affairs B. Lynn Pascoe that the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nepal army chief refuses to induct Maoist fighters en masse.

Pope under fire for allowing paedophile priest to continue as minister

ROME – With the emergence of reports that Pope Benedict allowed a paedophile priest to continue with the ministry, the Bishop of Rome has been drawn directly into the Roman Catholic sex abuse scandal.

The priest, who was convicted of child abuse, … Read more >>.

Britain issues travel advisory to citizens against visiting ‘violent’ Pak

ISLAMABAD – Following the recent surge in bloodshed in Pakistan, Britain has issued a travel advisory to its citizens warning them against travelling to the troubled country.

According to a statement issued by the British Embassy here, there is potential threat of terrorism and sectarian riots in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Britain issues travel advisory to citizens against visiting ‘violent’ Pak.

Pak Taliban warns of retaliatory attacks on security forces in Bajaur

ISLAMABAD – The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has warned of intensifying attacks on security forces in Bajaur region of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) if does not stop the offensive against extremists in the region.

Speaking over telephone from an undisclosed location, TTP leader Maulvi Faqir Mohammed said the government … Read more : Pak Taliban warns of retaliatory attacks on security forces in Bajaur.

JI chief blames Malik, Blackwater for terror attacks in Pak

KARACHI – Blaming the controversial private US security firm, Blackwater, for the recent bloodshed in the country, Pakistan Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Syed Munawar Hasan has said that the security firm is working … Read this article on Gaea Times at : JI chief blames Malik, Blackwater for terror attacks in Pak.

Bareilly curfew enters 13th day

BAREILLY – A large part of Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly district is under curfew for the 13th day running today.

On Friday, at least 15 people, including a senior police officer, were injured when members of a community clashed with police to protest the release of a Muslim cleric.
The community members indulged in … Read more >>.

Tearful memorial service for Gurshan held in Melbourne, body to be flown back to India

MELBOURNE – Three-year-old Indian toddler Gurshan Singh’s memorial service was held on Saturday at a funeral chapel in Thomastown, Melbourne.

Gurshan’s body lay in a white coffin with candles burning at either end, and it will be flown back to India tonight [..] Read the original article: here.

Kidnapped toddler’s father not a ’suspect’: Brit cops

LONDON – British police officials have clarified that the father of the five-year old boy kidnapped in Pakistan’s Punjab province is neither a suspect in the case nor he has been arrested.

A senior British police official said Raja Naqqash Saeed, who was branded a suspect in the abduction case …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kidnapped toddler’s father not a ’suspect’: Brit cops.

Peshawar on high alert following Lahore serial blasts

PESHAWAR – Following the serial bomb blasts in Lahore, security has been beefed up in Peshawar with officials expressing fears over the city being next on the terror hit list.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) (Operations), Peshawar, Kareem Khan said all security measures have been taken …. Read the original article  : Peshawar on high alert following Lahore serial blasts.

Fear paralyses residents following series of low intensity blasts in Lahore

LAHORE – Just hours after Lahore was rocked with two powerful bomb blasts which killed 42 persons and wounded over 100, the city was rattled with six low intensity blasts petrifying local citizens further.

Though there were no casualties reported in the five …. Original article  : Fear paralyses residents following series of low intensity blasts in Lahore.

French officials lodge protest against Cameron’s ‘dwarf’ jibe at Sarkozy

LONDON – French officials have lodged a protest against British Conservative leader David Cameron for taking jibes at their President Nicholas Sarkozy’s “dwarf” height.

According to The Independent, Cameron made a comment about “hidden dwarfs” in relation to a photo of himself … Read more : French officials lodge protest against Cameron’s ‘dwarf’ jibe at Sarkozy.

Majority of New Zealanders in favour of merger with Australia

AUCKLAND – A recent poll has found that 40 percent of New Zealanders support a debate about becoming a state of Australia.

According to the UMR Research poll, which surveyed a thousand people on both sides of the Tasman, approximately a quarter of …. Source article  : Majority of New Zealanders in favour of merger with Australia.

Six Mumbai labourers injured as under-renovation buildings collapse

MUMBAI – At least six labourers were injured here as two nearby buildings that were under-renovation by the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) collapsed.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Sanjay Mohite said, “Two three-storied … Original source on Gaea Times at : Six Mumbai labourers injured as under-renovation buildings collapse.

British police probing corruption charges against Gurkha charity in Nepal

LONDON – British police is probing allegations that Gurkha soldiers hoping to settle in UK are being forced by the Gurkha Army’s Ex Servicemen’s Organisation (GAESO) to pay hundreds of pounds for legal advice.

The British Ministry of Defence, along with the Ministry … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : British police probing corruption charges against Gurkha charity in Nepal.

Israeli leader urges calm after new rebuke from US over east Jerusalem construction plans

Israeli leader urges calm over row with Washington

JERUSALEM – Israel’s prime minister is urging calm following another stern rebuke from Washington over plans to build 1,600 apartments in contested east Jerusalem.
Benjamin Netanyahu told his Cabinet on Sunday “not to get carried away and to calm down” over the crisis with the U.S.
News of the construction …. Original article  : Israeli leader urges calm after new rebuke from US over east Jerusalem construction plans.

Daylight Saving Time Change 2010 Today

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- Every year in spring, half of the world moves its clock sticks an hour further and it has almost become an annual ritual. The daylight saving time will begin on Sunday, Mar 14. According to reports, the U.S. Standard time will be changed at 2 am. The time change will be embraced …. Source article  : Daylight Saving Time Change 2010 Today.

‘Top learner’ Prince Harry to get helicopter wings

LONDON – Prince Harry is reportedly set to graduate as fully-qualified helicopter pilot after coming in the top 10 per cent of his class.

The 25-year-old royal is due to receive his helicopter wings at a special ceremony at the Army Air Corps HQ in May.
“There are few people around more amazed than Harry himself. But …. Original source  : ‘Top learner’ Prince Harry to get helicopter wings.

Two teens arrested in murder case of Indian ‘have-a-go hero’ in London

LONDON – Two teenagers have been arrested over the murder of Indian origin ‘have-a-go hero’ Sukhwinder Singh, who pursued two men who robbed a 28-year-old woman near Barking station in east London.

The teenagers are being quizzed by murder squad detectives, News of The World reports.
Sukhwinder Singh, 31, a father-of-one, was stabbed after chasing thieves who … Original article on : Two teens arrested in murder case of Indian ‘have-a-go hero’ in London.

Chelsea King Memorial Service

POWAY, CALIFORNIA (GaeaTimes.com)- A public memorial was arranged for Chelsea King, the allegedly murdered teenager who did not return after she went jogging near her home in Southern California. Fittingly enough, the memorial was held at the place the teenager loved the most, the football and athletic track in the school she attended, the …. Original article  : Chelsea King Memorial Service.

Victoria is Australia’s most violent state

MELBOURNE – Victoria is Australia’s most violent state, registering the most homicidal deaths in comparison to the country’s five other states.

There were 185 homicides, which include murder and manslaughter. Of those, 124 happened in Melbourne – two more than the total homicides for all of NSW.
On … Original article on : Victoria is Australia’s most violent state.

Titanic food menu to be re-created for memorial cruise passengers

LONDON – The different delicacies served in the ship ‘Titanic’, which drowned in 1912, will be available to cruisers who get onboard the Titanic Memorial Cruise.

Yvonne Hume, the great-niece of the vessel’s first violinist John Law Hume, has compiled the dishes available in the ship …. Source article  : Titanic food menu to be re-created for memorial cruise passengers.

Pak intelligence claim India used Afghan soil to plot Lahore serial blasts

LAHORE – Pakistani intelligence agencies have claimed nabbing the mastermind of the Lahore serial blasts and one of his close associates in a raid in southern Punjab province, and the extremists have reportedly revealed that the strikes were planned at an Indian consulate in Afghanistan two months ago.

According to sources, Qari Muzammal, the close …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pak intelligence claim India used Afghan soil to plot Lahore serial blasts.

Pope’s spokesperson blasts ‘tenacious plots’ to involve him in Munich sex scandal

LONDON – Pope Benedict XVI’s spokesman Father Federico Lombardi has blasted reports saying the Bishop of Rome allowed a paedophile priest to continue with the ministry during his stint as archbishop of Munich.

In an interview on Vatican Radio, Lombardi suggested that the pope was the victim of a “tenacious plot” to implicate him in Munich …. Source article  : Pope’s spokesperson blasts ‘tenacious plots’ to involve him in Munich sex scandal.

Maharashtra ATS nabs two terrorists

MUMBAI – Maharashtra’s Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) on Sunday arrested two terrorists from a suburb, who had come with the mission of blowing up the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) plant here.

Sources said the two had come with all plans to blow up the ONGC plant here.
The duo will be produced in the Mazgaon court …. Original source  : Maharashtra ATS nabs two terrorists.

Iran’s secret missile-launching facility revealed

TEHRAN – Iran’s surge towards becoming a nuclear power has taken another stride after satellite images of a new missile-launching facility were revealed.

According to Jane’s, the London-based intelligence group, new satellite images show a launch pad 6.5 miles north-east of the existing Semnan site.
Experts believe that the site could ultimately launch Tehran’s next-generation Simorgh rocket. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Iran’s secret missile-launching facility revealed.

‘Nutty Professor’ creating ‘Nutt slammer: booze sans the harmful effects’!

LONDON – Wives of booze-loving husbands can now take heart: A new drink that gives the same high as alcohol but without the harmful effects is being developed.

The drink is the brainchild of David Nutt, a former chairman of the UK government’s Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs.
Nutt had been sacked from his post … Read more »»».

Royal florists fuel Prince William, Kate Middleton wedding reports

LONDON – Royal florists have further fuelled wedding reports of Prince William and his girlfriend Kate Middleton after talking about the flowers that would decorate the cathedral.

Though the prince has made no announcements, rumours of a royal wedding have been consistently making rounds.
And the speculation was elevated after royal florist Simon Lycett mentioned his dreams … Original source on Gaea Times at : Royal florists fuel Prince William, Kate Middleton wedding reports.

India to conduct missile interceptor test

CHANDIPUR – The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will on Sunday conduct a missile interceptor test off the Orissa coast as part of building a two-layered Ballistic Missile Defence shields.

An indigenously developed Advanced Air Defence missile (AAD) missile will engage and destroy … Original article on : India to conduct missile interceptor test.

4 in 10 Brit women have sex 20 times a month!

LONDON – Forty four percent of British women make love 20 times a month, a new survey has revealed.

However, 36 per cent of women in the UK have sex less than five times a month, reports The News of the World.
The sex survey for ITV1’s This Morning quizzed 3,000 women.
This Morning’s …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 4 in 10 Brit women have sex 20 times a month!.

No ’solid’ evidence about India’s hand in Lahore blasts : Qureshi

ISLAMABAD – While political leaders in the country and some sections of the media wasted no time in pointing fingers towards ‘foreign involvement’, read India, in the series of Lahore blasts, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has admitted that it has no solid evidence to prove the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : No ’solid’ evidence about India’s hand in Lahore blasts : Qureshi.

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.

Chhattisgarh lobbies for world heritage status for Sirpur

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh is lobbying to get world heritage status for the Buddhist site Sirpur, Tourism and Culture Minister Brijmohan Agrawal said Monday.

“The Chhattisgarh government is lobbying for Sirpur to be granted world heritage status. It deserves to be placed in the list of world heritage sites as its archaeological pieces are connected to the …. Original article  : Chhattisgarh lobbies for world heritage status for Sirpur.

A tribute to Delhi in Penguin’s spring lit fest

NEW DELHI – Tales from the underbelly of the Indian capital told by a gamut of writers as diverse as William Dalrymple, Sam Miller, Mahmood Farooqui and Danish Husain brought the curtains down on the open air literature festival- Spring Fever 2010- at the India Habitat Centre Sunday night.

The festival, which began March 13, … Read : A tribute to Delhi in Penguin’s spring lit fest.

German government to introduce bank levy to cover costs of future crises

Germany to introduce bank levy
BERLIN – The German government plans to introduce a levy on banks to ensure that they pay for the costs of any future crises.

Volker Kauder, the parliamentary leader of Chancellor Angela Merkel’s conservative bloc, told ZDF television Monday that her governing coalition has agreed in principle on the plan.
Kauder said coalition … Original source on Gaea Times at : German government to introduce bank levy to cover costs of future crises.

US drone strikes kill eight militants in North Waziristan

MIRANSHAH – An unmanned US predator attack killed at least eight terrorists in an al Qaeda and Taliban hideout in North Waziristan on Sunday, Pakistani intelligence officials have said.

The identity of killed militants in Inzar village of the North Waziristan is not known.
“The targeted compound belongs … Original article on : US drone strikes kill eight militants in North Waziristan.

Pak-US strategic talks going to be meaningless: Sources

ISLAMABAD – The much-anticipated Pak-US strategic dialogue, scheduled to be held in Washington on March 24, would end without any major breakthrough from Pakistan’s perspective, as the US is unlikely to address Islamabad’s “national security concerns” regarding India, diplomatic sources have warned.

“The strategic dialogue process would be of … Read more : Pak-US strategic talks going to be meaningless: Sources.

Muslim delegation from Britain visits Bangalore

BANGALORE – A four-member Muslim delegation from United Kingdom, presently in India to study various social and educational aspects arrived here on the first leg of their tour on Sunday.

The delegation consists of people who are willing to meet different …. Source article  : Muslim delegation from Britain visits Bangalore.

Five drug peddlers nabbed in Amritsar

AMRITSAR – The Special Intelligence Wing of Punjab Police have arrested five drug peddlers and seized 26 kilograms of heroin after a brief gun battle with them on Sunday.

Acting on a tip-off, the sleuths intercepted a SUV and arrested five suspected drug peddlers after a brief exchange of … Read more >>>.

China to become world’s top tourist destination by 2015

SANYA – The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Secretary General, Taleb Rifai, has said that China is expected to become the world’s largest tourist destination by 2015.

Rifai stressed that China’s tourism economy has moved incredibly in the last ten years, and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Research threatens to spark fresh ‘ageism’ controversy at BBC

LONDON – The BBC is at the centre of another ageism controversy after a research revealed that only one in five of its main channel presenters and acting talent are over 50.

According to the Older Faces audit commissioned by Anchor, England’s largest provider of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Research threatens to spark fresh ‘ageism’ controversy at BBC.

Berlusconi to push for ‘greater powers’ by changes to Italian constitution

ROME – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has said that he will push for changes in the constitution by referendum to give him greater powers as a “directly elected president”.

Addressing supporters of his … Read more : Berlusconi to push for ‘greater powers’ by changes to Italian constitution.

German exports to China up 7 percent in 2009 despite sharp overall fall, data show

German exports to China up 7 pct in 2009
BERLIN – German data show that the country’s exports to China rose by 7 percent last year despite an overall decline that saw it lose its status as the world’s biggest exporter to the rising Asian power.

The Federal Statistical Office said Monday Germany exported goods worth euro36.5 …. Source article  : German exports to China up 7 percent in 2009 despite sharp overall fall, data show.

Maoists kill trader in Jharkhand

GUMLA – Suspected Maoists shot dead a trader at Kotam village in Jharkhand’s Gumla district on Sunday.

The slain trader was identified as Mohsin Ansari.
“We got information that in Kotam, Mohsin Ansari has been shot dead by a Maoist. e rushed to the spot after receiving the information,” said, R. iwari, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Maoists kill trader in Jharkhand.

Nitish Kumar to embark on Bihar Diwas celebrations

PATNA – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will on Monday inaugurate a three-day extravaganza at the Gandhi Maidan here to mark the 98th anniversary of separate statehood status to Bihar.

A three-day extravaganza, which includes colourful and academic events, will be held here.
The functions have also been organised at over … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nitish Kumar to embark on Bihar Diwas celebrations.

Wolfgang Wagner, longtime patriarch of Bayreuth festival and composer’s grandson, dies at 90

Wolfgang Wagner, longtime Bayreuth director, dies

BERLIN – Wolfgang Wagner, the grandson of composer Richard Wagner and the leader of the Bayreuth opera festival for more than half a century, has died, the festival said. He was 90.
Wagner died on Sunday, the festival said in a brief statement on its Web site. It did not give …. Read the original article  : Wolfgang Wagner, longtime patriarch of Bayreuth festival and composer’s grandson, dies at 90.

Maoists blow up railway tracks in West Bengal during 48-hour shutdown

KOLKATA – The Maoists blew up a stretch of land along the railway track between Midnapore and Godapia Sal stations in West Midnapore district early on Monday morning during the two-day shutdown call given by them across [..] Read the original article: here.

Mumbai Customs detain four persons under FERA Act

MUMBAI – The Mumbai Customs Air Intelligence Unit (AIU) has detained four persons at the Mumbai Airport for violating the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA) norms as they carried digital phone memory cards worth Rs 52 lakhs

The four passengers, …. Original source  : Mumbai Customs detain four persons under FERA Act.

Kerala Government orders probe into bomb found inside Kingfisher flight

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The Kerala Government has constituted a high-level committee headed by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Jolly Cherian to probe the low-intensity country-made bomb that was found inside a Kingfisher flight IT-4731 from Bangalore to Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday morning.

The state government has asked the security agencies to conduct a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kerala Government orders probe into bomb found inside Kingfisher flight.

Maoists call for two-day shutdown in six states

KOLKATA – A two-day shutdown called by Maoists across the six states of West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhatisgarh, Orissa and Andhra Pradesh as well as three districts of Maharashtra begins on Monday.

The shutdown is in protest against the Union Budget, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Maoists call for two-day shutdown in six states.

Free market, religions fostered fairplay in society: Study

TORONTO – Free market and religions have played a huge role in the evolution of trust, fair-play and respect for others in human societies, says a new Canadian study.

Anthropologist Joe Henrich of the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, who led the study which was published this week in the journal Science, called current human … Read more : Free market, religions fostered fairplay in society: Study.

Oil drops to near $80 in Asia, extending Friday’s losses as rally fizzles out

Oil drops to near $80, extending Friday’s losses

SINGAPORE – Oil prices dropped to near $80 a barrel Monday in Asia, extending losses from Friday as a monthlong rally fizzled out.
Benchmark crude for April delivery was down 59 cents to $80.09 a barrel at late afternoon Singapore time in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Oil drops to near $80 in Asia, extending Friday’s losses as rally fizzles out.

British Airways works to return operations to normal after strike, ahead of another on Sat

BA strives to recover from impact of 3-day strike

LONDON – British Airways worked to get operations back to normal on Tuesday following a three-day strike by cabin crew that the airline says cost it about 21 million pounds ($31.5 million).
The airline faces a second walkout this weekend – this time for four days beginning Saturday … Read more >>.

Iran annoyed over Pak’s delay in finalising electricity import deal

ISLAMABAD – Iran has expressed serious discontent over the delay on the part of Pakistan in finalising the deal regarding importing electricity from it.

Iran’s Ambassador to Pakistan Masha’allah Shakeri said Tehran had signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Islamabad in 2008 regarding providing 1,135MW of electricity, but even after 15 months no final agreement …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Porn company offers to end Nadya Suleman’s money woes

WASHINGTON – Nadya Suleman a.k.a. “Octomom”, who is having financial problems, has received an offer from porn video maker Vivid Entertainment to star in one of their videos.

Suleman, 34, who is reportedly on the verge of foreclosure on her California home for missing a series of payments, was on March 22 offered a role by [..] Read the original article: here.

Serial breast grabber on the loose in Sydney!

SYDNEY – Women in northwest Sydney are living in fear after three attacks by a serial breast grabber in a fortnight.

Police said the first attack occurred on Birmingham Street, followed by another incident at Railway Terrace, Guildford and a third time at Guildford Road.
Inspector Adam Phillips of Merrylands police said that in all three incidents …. Source article  : Serial breast grabber on the loose in Sydney!.

US-Pak nuke deal will further complicate South Asian security, says Chinese expert

NEW DELHI – The security situation in South Asia could get further complicated if the US agrees to have a civilian nuclear deal with Pakistan, according to experts.

Pakistan and the US are set to hold their first high-level strategic dialogue this week in Washington, co-chaired by US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Pakistan’s Foreign … Original article on : US-Pak nuke deal will further complicate South Asian security, says Chinese expert.

Mulayam Singh Yadav not allowed to unveil Lohia’s statue

LUCKNOW – Samajwadi Party (SP) president Mulayam Singh Yadav was on Tuesday not allowed to unveil the statue of Ram Manohar Lohia in Lucknow following which he had a scuffle with the police personnel.

Sources said the Samajwadi Party supremo was about to unveil the statue, when the police personnel following stopped him from doing so.
“The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mulayam Singh Yadav not allowed to unveil Lohia’s statue.

‘Russian roulette’ at wedding turns tragic after guest shoots himself

MELBOURNE – A wedding turned into a tragedy, when a guest was seriously wounded playing “Russian roulette” in front of a horrified bride and groom.

The police arrested a wedding guest, who had been giving a toast when he pretended he was playing the deadly game with a gun.
According to the Daily Mail, the guest claimed …. Source  : ‘Russian roulette’ at wedding turns tragic after guest shoots himself.

UN conservation meeting rejects plan to regulate sale of hammerheads used in fin trade

Sharks lose fight at UN meeting
DOHA, Qatar – A U.S.-backed proposal to protect the heavily fished hammerhead sharks, prized for their fins, has been rejected by a U.N. conservation meeting.

Populations of the scalloped hammerhead, great hammerhead and smooth hammerhead have dropped 85 percent due to rising demand for shark fin soup in China and other … Read more »»».

Former Nigerian foreign minister says country’s acting leader may meet Obama next month

Nigeria’s acting leader may meet Obama
ABUJA, Nigeria – Nigeria’s former top diplomat says the West African nation’s acting leader may meet with President Barack Obama when he attends a summit on nuclear proliferation in Washington next month.
Former foreign affairs minister Ojo Maduekwe says acting President Goodluck Jonathan’s U.S. visit will be his first …. Source article  : Former Nigerian foreign minister says country’s acting leader may meet Obama next month.

Nepali Congress committed to realise Koirala’s dream

KATHMANDU – Nepali Congress (NC) parliamentary party leader Ram Chandra Poudel has said the NC leadership is committed to work together as envisioned by late Girija Prasad Koirala.

Talking to the reporters after the first parliamentary party meeting since the death of party president Koirala, Poudel said: “Since the high level political mechanism was led …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nepali Congress committed to realise Koirala’s dream.

Islamabad police nabs security official turned suicide bomber

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani police officials have reportedly nabbed two suspected suicide bombers here and also recovered a suicide jacket from their possession.

Confirming the report, acting Inspector General of Islamabad Police, Bani Amin, told reporters here that the suspects Noor Jehan and Rehmat Gul worked for the Qari Hussain Group based in the Orakzai Agency.
Amin said …. Source article  : Islamabad police nabs security official turned suicide bomber.

Agra students join hands to clean River Yamuna

AGRA – Hundreds of school students joined social activists and environmentalists here in a mass campaign to clean River Yamuna.

Holding placards and banners, scores of activists including children, took out a rally and spread mass awareness about their responsibility to keep the River Yamuna clean.
The drive was jointly organised by the Municipal Corporation of Agra … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Agra students join hands to clean River Yamuna.

Himalayan environment conference in Shimla

SHIMLA – Scores of environmentalists and conservationists came together to discuss the challenges faced by the Himalayas here on Monday.

Over 200 delegates from India, Nepal and Malaysia are participating in a three-day conference.
Jointly organised by the Institute of Integrated Himalayan Studies and Himalayan Mountain Forum, the meet is a follow-up of the Himalayan Chief Ministers …. Read the original article  : Himalayan environment conference in Shimla.

Seers protest against hydropower projects in Haridwar

HARIDWAR – Hindu seers and sadhus under the banner of All India Akhara Parishad, an apex body of monks, staged protest against all the hydropower projects on River Bhagirathi in Uttarakashi.

The Parishad started its indefinite demonstration at Har-Ki-Pauri in Haridwar to press for its demand for the closure of all the major projects.
In the ultimatum …. Source article  : Seers protest against hydropower projects in Haridwar.

Massive fire engulfs Surat textile shops

SURAT – The textile shops in Surat incurred losses worth millions of rupees following a massive fire that broke due to a short circuit.

Three shops were gutted, but nobody was injured in the fire that broke out on Monday night.
The fire engines were rushed to the spot to douse the fire.
“At least eight fire engines …. Source  : Massive fire engulfs Surat textile shops.

‘Porky’ and ‘Bubba’ OK for candidates to use as nicknames on Ark. ballot, but ‘Colonel’ isn’t

‘Colonel’ not OK for Ark. ballot, but ‘Porky’ is

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – A retired Army colonel running for a U.S. Senate seat is criticizing an Arkansas law that prevents him from using his military title as a nickname on the ballot this spring.
In Arkansas, such monikers as Porky and Bubba are OK for the ballot, …. Source  : ‘Porky’ and ‘Bubba’ OK for candidates to use as nicknames on Ark. ballot, but ‘Colonel’ isn’t.

Helicopter mishap in Afghanistan injures members of Turkish reconstruction team

Helicopter mishap in Afghanistan injures occupants

KABUL, Afghanistan – A helicopter operated by a Turkish reconstruction team made a “hard landing” in central Afghanistan on Tuesday, injuring at least two people.
The helicopter experienced technical problems as it tried to land at a base in Midan Shar, the capital of Wardak province, said the provincial deputy police … Original source on Gaea Times at : Helicopter mishap in Afghanistan injures members of Turkish reconstruction team.

Britain at ‘increased’ risk of nuclear attack by Al-Qaeda: Reports

LONDON – Three separate UK Government reports have warned that the country faces an increased threat of a nuclear attack by Al-Qaeda terrorists.

The National Security Strategy stated that “the UK does face nuclear threats now” and there was “the possibility that nuclear weapons or nuclear material could fall into the hands of rogue states or … Read more >>>.

Belgium Prince meets President Patil

NEW DELHI – Prince Philippe of Belgium, who is presently on a state visit to India to cement bilateral ties, met President Pratibha Devisingh Patil here on Monday.

The Prince, who arrived here on Saturday with a large mission including Princess Mathilde and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Steven Vanackere, also met Vice-President Hamid Ansari …. Original source  : Belgium Prince meets President Patil.

Maoists kill policeman in Jharkhand

RANCHI – The Maoists on Tuesday morning gunned down a policeman in Jharkhand’s Sareikela-Kharsawan during their two-day shutdown call, which began on Monday.

The policeman identified as Kalicharan Bodra was killed, when the rebels fired indiscriminately on a police patrolling team near Chouka police station around 1: 30 a.m.
The Maoists later hid into the forests after … Read more »»».

33rd SAARC Literature Festival March 26-29

NEW DELHI – The impact of environment on literature will be the focus of the 33rd SAARC Festival of Literature at the India International Centre March 26-29.

Writers, academics, artists, folklorists, historians, greens, and peace and gender activists from eight South Asian countries will discuss how nature and environment have been key constituents of literature …. Original source  : 33rd SAARC Literature Festival March 26-29.

Hindus celebrate ‘Ram Navami’

AYODHYA/NEW DELHI – Hindu devotees celebrate the festival of Ram Navami, the birth anniversary of Lord Rama on Wednesday.

The festival marks the end of the nine-day long fasting and Navaratri festival in north India.
At Ayodhya, which is considered to be the birthplace of Rama, hundreds of devotees took holy dip in river Saryu and visited … Original source on Gaea Times at : Hindus celebrate ‘Ram Navami’.

Etawah road accident sparks off agitation

ETAWAH – Etawah locals turned violent on Wednesday following the death of a youth in a head on car-bike collision.

The violent locals damaged public property and pelted stones on police, as they attempted to bring the situation under control.
The authorities reportedly rushed additional policemen when the situation turned out of control. But the move was … Read more : Etawah road accident sparks off agitation.

Art of Living volunteers team up to clean river Yamuna

NEW DELHI – The Art of Living volunteers came together on Wednesday to clean the banks and clear the flow of the water of river Yamuna, claiming to be highly inspired by Spiritual Guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

This cleanliness drive is part of a campaign that was mooted and launched by renowned Sri Sri Ravi …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Art of Living volunteers team up to clean river Yamuna.

Secrets behind sharp memory in ’super-aged’ individuals revealed

WASHINGTON – The secret behind the super-sharp memory in elderly people-the so-called “super-aged” individuals-has now been unveiled.

Dr. Changiz Geula, and colleagues said that the “super-aged” individuals, actually somehow escaped formation of brain “tangles”, which consist of an abnormal form of a protein called “tau” that damages and eventually kills nerve cells.
Named for their snarled, knotted …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Secrets behind sharp memory in ’super-aged’ individuals revealed.

Karunanidhi to remain undisputed DMK leader

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi’s elder son M K Azhagiri has said that he cannot accept anyone as the leader of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party after his father.

In an interview to a Tamil magazine, Azhagiri, who is the Union Chemicals and Fertilizers Minister asserted that no one could replace his … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Karunanidhi to remain undisputed DMK leader.

The brand and the woman: Crafting a success story in rural India

Come March and 92-year-old Hansiben will be walking the ramp in New Delhi, the Indian capital. It has been an extraordinary 23-year journey to success for this artisan from a little known village in the state of Gujarat, a state known for its intricate handicrafts, and who has a clothing and accessories brand named after …. Source  : The brand and the woman: Crafting a success story in rural India.

Canary Islands’ Police Kill Tigers

MADRID, SPAIN (GaeaTimes.com)- The Canary Islands‘ Cocodrilos Park zoo had to lose three tigers on Tuesday. Three tigers of the zoo who had escaped were gunned down by the Civil Guard Police on Tuesday only. According to reports the officials of the Canary Islands zoo have declared to the media that nobody was …. Source article  : Canary Islands’ Police Kill Tigers.

A new spring in India-Bangladesh ties

In the misty chill of Delhi\’s fierce winter, India and Bangladesh heralded a new spring in their bilateral ties. Taking inspiration from the unity themes in the works of Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam, the two iconic poets of the subcontinent, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Bangladesh leader Sheikh Hasina Wajed on Jan …. Original article  : A new spring in India-Bangladesh ties.

From fiction to fact: India forever in Afghanistan

From the days of the gentle Kabuliwala, the eponymous story about a towering Afghan and his relationship with a young girl, to thousands of Indians busy building roads, bridges and power stations amid the relentless violence in Afghanistan, the saga of Indian-Afghan bonding, despite it not finding favour with some countries, has few parallels …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : From fiction to fact: India forever in Afghanistan.

Sydney serial ‘breast grabber’ strikes again

MELBOURNE – A man suspected of indecently assaulting women in the streets of Sydney has struck for the fourth time.

The suspected serial breast grabber was said to have attacked a 19-year-old woman walking on Crawley Street, Merrylands before fleeing to a nearby street.
The latest incident comes after three other similar indecent assaults were reported in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sydney serial ‘breast grabber’ strikes again.

Michelle Obama meets The Simpsons

LONDON – Michelle Obama has become the latest high profiler to feature in the hit animated series The Simpsons.

The US First Lady was shown wrapped in purple and pearls as she jetted into Springfield for an inspirational visit to the local school children.
The Stealing First Base” episode shows the mum-of-two defending Lisa over teasing at …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Michelle Obama meets The Simpsons.

Biden drops the F-bomb after Obama signs historic health reforms

LONDON – US Vice President Joe Biden let out an over zealous reaction as President Barack Obama signed historic health reform into law.

The gaffe-prone vice president was said to have remarked aside to his boss, “This is a big f—— deal,” meant for Obama’s ears only.
But the expletive was picked up on television microphones and …. Read the original article  : here.

Strategic dialogue: Pak looking to take maximum advantage of their moment in the sun

WASHINGTON – The United States and Pakistan have had a history of “trust deficit”. However, in the recent past things have improved considerably with President Obama offering huge monetary and military assistance to Islamabad. It is this change that Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and his team of officials would like to exploit during …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Strategic dialogue: Pak looking to take maximum advantage of their moment in the sun.

Jammu and Kashmir ready for ensuing civic polls

SRINAGAR – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has said that the State is ready for civic polls, to be conducted in April.

Talking to reporters here on Tuesday, Abdullah said: “”The electoral rolls and other preparations have to be done. We will also ensure that the conditions are conducive for those who want to … Read : Jammu and Kashmir ready for ensuing civic polls.

James Bond fan builds fiery scooter

LONDON – Colin Furze drew inspiration from James Bond to design and install a rear facing flamethrower on his sports scooter – because he was sick and tired of drivers cutting him up.

The 30-year-old Furze from Stamford, Lincolnshire, took a month and three attempts to convert his 60mph sccoter into a complete road-rage revenge vehicle.
The … Original article on : James Bond fan builds fiery scooter.

Gujjars seek Sonia Gandhi’s intervention against anti-tribal Bill

JAMMU – Seeking immediate intervention of Congress President Sonia Gandhi against anti-reservation policies, the All India Gujjar Mahasabha has strongly opposed the controversial Bill move by the government to ban inter-district recruitment in the State and said the Bill is anti tribal.

In a statement issued by State President of Mahasabha, Eshfaq-ur- Rehman Poswal said the …. Read the original article  : Gujjars seek Sonia Gandhi’s intervention against anti-tribal Bill.

‘Bounty put on women sailors’ on board HMAS Success

MELBOURNE – It has emerged that along with the predatory behaviour, intimidation, bullying and abuse of female sailors on board the HMAS Success, bounties were also placed on their heads.

An independent inquiry was previously told by Commanding Officer Simon Brown that female officers had “bounties” placed on their heads by males competing to have sex …. Read the original article  : ‘Bounty put on women sailors’ on board HMAS Success.

CAPITAL CULTURE: Forget about the Obama boys club; women’s club takes hold at White House

CAPITAL CULTURE: Obama tackles boys club image
WASHINGTON – The highest-ranking women on President Barack Obama’s staff have created a sort of informal women’s club.
Women fill several top jobs in the White House. Senior adviser Valerie Jarrett, a longtime friend of the president, is considered one of his closest aides. Melody Barnes oversees Obama’s … Original source on Gaea Times at : CAPITAL CULTURE: Forget about the Obama boys club; women’s club takes hold at White House.

Colleagues: Boston man held in North Korea is devout Christian who rallied against Pyongyang

US man held in NKorea rallied against Pyongyang
SEOUL, South Korea – A Boston man detained in North Korea is a quiet, devout Christian so concerned about an American missionary held in Pyongyang that he was moved to tears at rallies protesting the communist regime, fellow activists said Wednesday.
North Korea announced Monday that … Read more >>.

Kashmir’s tulip garden open for visitors

SRINAGAR – Kashmir’s tulip garden, where the flowers are in full bloom, was thrown open for visitors in summer capital Srinagar Thursday, an official said.

The garden has become a major attraction and an ideal visiting spot for both tourists and locals,” said Sheikh Farhan, assistant floriculture officer.
Red, yellow, variegated, pink, white, orange, …. Read the original article  : Kashmir’s tulip garden open for visitors.

Six-day spring theatre festival begins in Shimla

SHIMLA – Theatre artists from different parts of the country participated in the six-day spring festival in Shimla.

The Chetra Rang Mahotsava, which began on Wednesday, concludes on March 29.
The North Zone Cultural Centre of Patiala and the state government’s Department of Language and Culture are the organizers of the event.
Prem Sharma, the Director of the …. Original source  : Six-day spring theatre festival begins in Shimla.

China, Afghanistan sign three deals to boost economic cooperation

BEIJING – Chinese President Hu Jintao and his Afghan counterpart Hamid Karzai have signed three deals, in which China has announced more investment in the war-torn country and pledged to continue aiding reconstruction efforts.

Jintao and Karzai, who is on a state visit to China, signed the deals on Wednesday, and it covers economic cooperation, technical …. Source article  : China, Afghanistan sign three deals to boost economic cooperation.

“Goddess” glacier melting in Kashmir

WASHINGTON – Latest data from a 2009 New Delhi-based Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) expedition shows that in the past four decades, the Kolahoi glacier in Kashmir, which is popularly known as “goddess of light”, has lost between 15 to 18 percent of its total volume.

The Kolahoi glacier in the western Himalaya is known as … Read more : “Goddess” glacier melting in Kashmir.

Google co-founder’s memories of Soviet repression spurred decision to quit China

MELBOURNE – Google co-founder Sergey Brin’s dramatic decision to close the search engine’s operations in China was linked to the compromises he had to make in the erstwhile native Soviet Union to do business.

The Australian quoted Brin, as saying that the beginning of that change came just after the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.
As the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Five dead as Pallam Raju’s convoy strikes an auto

HYDERABAD – Five persons in Andhra Pradesh’s East Godavari district lost their lives on Thursday afternoon after a jeep that was part of a convoy of Minister of State for Defence M M Pallam Raju hit an auto.

The five persons were in an auto, when the jeep hit their vehicle.
Out of the total five, there …. Source  : Five dead as Pallam Raju’s convoy strikes an auto.

China, US should handle economic, trade frictions to boost ties: Chinese Minister

WASHINGTON – Chinese Vice Commerce Minister Zhong Shan reckons that economic and trade frictions between China and the United States should be handled appropriately for the healthy and steady development of bilateral ties.

“As long as the two sides stick to a strategic and long-term approach to our economic and trade ties and appropriately handle trade … Read more : China, US should handle economic, trade frictions to boost ties: Chinese Minister.

Eisenhower Memorial organizers to unveil architect’s design for Washington site near Capitol

Design for D.C. Eisenhower Memorial to be unveiled

WASHINGTON – The design for a national memorial to former president and World War II general Dwight D. Eisenhower is set to be unveiled in Washington.
The memorial commission will present the design by leading architect Frank O. Gehry on Thursday.
The Eisenhower Memorial is planned for a four-acre site …. Source article  : Eisenhower Memorial organizers to unveil architect’s design for Washington site near Capitol.

Illuminated manuscripts to fetch up to 16m pounds at London auction

LONDON – A collection of illuminated manuscripts previously belonging to kings, bishops and the aristocracy has been estimated to fetch up to 16 million pounds when it goes under the hammer in London.

The Arcana Collection: Exceptional Illuminated Manuscripts And Incunabula will go on sale in July by Christie’s, who described it as the most valuable … Read more »»».

Cult hails Indian-origin British economist as a Messiah

LONDON – An Indian-origin British economist is baffled because a cult is hailing him as a Messiah.

Raj Patel, 37, from Golders Green, North London, was flooded with emails from followers of Share International following a TV interview in the US.
And with striking similarity to a scene in Monty Python’s Life Of Brian, wherein Brian is … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Cult hails Indian-origin British economist as a Messiah.

Cabinet okays modification of police modernisation scheme

NEW DELHI – The union cabinet Thursday approved a proposal for the modification and extension of police modernisation schemes for all union territories, including Delhi.

The , initiated by the ministry of home affairs, started in 2006 with a provision of Rs.884 crore for five years from 2006-07 to 2010-11.
“This has been extended for [..] Read the original article: here.

Temperature Rises Unprecedentedly

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The rise in temperature has taken the met experts by surprise and the common man by shock in India. This is barely the end of March and the climate is giving the impression as if it is the peak of summer! The heat wave is giving the people a …. Source  : Temperature Rises Unprecedentedly.

Families of Flight 93 ask Congress for continued support to build a memorial in Pennsylvania

Families of Flight 93 seek support for memorial

WASHINGTON – Families of those killed on United Airlines Flight 93 on Sept. 11, 2001, are asking Congress to continue its support for a national memorial at the crash site in southwestern Pennsylvania.
The group Families of Flight 93 planned to tell a House Appropriations panel on Thursday that …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Families of Flight 93 ask Congress for continued support to build a memorial in Pennsylvania.

Oz businesswoman applies for licence for brothel on wheels!

MELBOURNE – With the mining boom in Alice Springs, Australia a businesswoman has applied for a licence to set up a brothel on wheels that would cater to the carnal needs of the miners.

Julie Partridge, 52, applied for a licence to set up an agency that would bring sex workers in from Darwin or interstate …. Original source  : Oz businesswoman applies for licence for brothel on wheels!.

‘Bush wipes hand on Clinton’s shirt after shaking hands with Haitian man’

NEW YORK – A popular online video appears to show George W. Bush wiping his hand on Bill Clinton’s shirt after shaking hands with a Haitian man during their visit to the quake-torn region.

The former US Presidents embarked on a humanitarian trip to the Caribbean country to raise funds and awareness following the massive destruction …. Source  : ‘Bush wipes hand on Clinton’s shirt after shaking hands with Haitian man’.

Obama women a hit at legendary Brooklyn pizzeria

NEW YORK – Michelle Obama, her daughters Malia and Sasha and some friends left staff and guests dazzled with their visit to the legendary Brooklyn pizzeria Grimaldi’s.

The ladies were said to have arrived for lunch and were served four pies – a plain, a pepperoni, a sausage and one with mushrooms, peppers and onions.
Rafal Harajda, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Bumpy road ahead for US-Pak ties’

WASHINGTON – The United States’ cool response to Pakistan’s demand of having a India like civil nuclear deal and unmanned Predator drones would play a determining role in future engagements between both countries, officials privy to the first ministerial level strategic dialogue between Washington and Islamabad have said.

Pakistani and US officials said that a “bumpy … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Bumpy road ahead for US-Pak ties’.

Philly leaders increase enforcement, penalties in attempt to end destructive teen flash mobs

Philly to teen flash mobs: The behavior ends now

PHILADELPHIA – Flash mobs in Philadelphia have turned violent, and the reasons are as tough to pin down as where the next one will be.
The mobs start when hundreds of teenagers spread the word electronically for everyone to show up at a designated spot. At least five … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Philly leaders increase enforcement, penalties in attempt to end destructive teen flash mobs.

Oz man who pimped 12-year-old girl jailed for 10 years

MELBOURNE – An Australian man, who admitted to pimping a 12-year-old girl to have sex with 100 men, has been sentenced to jail for 10 years.

Gary John Devine, 51, of Glenorchy, who admitted to selling the girl for sex over a four week period in August and September last year, will have to serve at … Original source on Gaea Times at : Oz man who pimped 12-year-old girl jailed for 10 years.

NCC delegation visits Kazakhstan

ASTANA – delegation of nine cadets from the National Cadet Corps (NCC) led by two officers of the rank of Lieutenant Colonel are on a visit to Kazakhstan at the invitation of the Gumiliev Eurasian National University in Astana from 15-27 March, 2010.

An Indian embassy release said the visit is taking place under the aegis … Read more »»».

Pooches to play flower girls at Brisbane couple’s wedding!

MELBOURNE – A Brisbane couple has decided that their pooches will be replacing the flower girls on their wedding.

When Julia Steffens and Justin Taylor get married in November, their two golden retrievers will trot down the aisle just ahead … Original article on : Pooches to play flower girls at Brisbane couple’s wedding!.

Brit teen offering tips to win computer games becomes internet sensation!

LONDON – A British teenager has turned into an Internet sensation after he uploaded videos of himself on YouTube, showing how to win computer games.

Russell Sollis, 18, has had more than a million hits on his films, …. Original article  : Brit teen offering tips to win computer games becomes internet sensation!.

BA chief accused of union-busting as second round of strikes set to begin

Second round of British Airways strikes to begin

LONDON – British Airways is bracing for a second round of strikes, to last four days starting at midnight, as its chief executive is accused of trying to break the union.
Cabin crews are striking over pay and changes to working conditions.
Earlier this week, the airline withdrew valuable travel … Read more »»».

Somali government evicts 500 families near capital’s main airport, citing security concerns

Hundreds of Somali families evicted near airport

MOGADISHU, Somalia – Witnesses say hundreds of poor Somali families are being forcibly evicted from their homes near the airport.
Asha Madey said Friday that she spent the night in the open with her seven children after their two-room house was destroyed by security personnel with bulldozers.
Police spokesman Abdulahi Hassan …. Original article  : Somali government evicts 500 families near capital’s main airport, citing security concerns.

Campaign to encourage blacks to get married is spreading as annual Black Marriage Day nears

Saying ‘I do’: Black marriage campaign is growing

NEW YORK – For Kenny and Lynette Seymour, last weekend’s black marriage gala was about celebrating their seven-year marriage. They got to meet other black couples while spending a romantic evening together.
“Every time you meet another couple, you learn something new about yourself and relationships in general,” said …. Source article  : Campaign to encourage blacks to get married is spreading as annual Black Marriage Day nears.

Tamil Nadu chilli farmers benefit from ‘drip irrigation’ technique

Chennai, Mar 26 (ANI): The drip irrigation technique has benefited chilli farmers in Tamil Nadu’s Dharmapuri district.

“Drip irrigation is better for chilli cultivation. Using normal cultivation methods, farmers received revenue of between Rs 75,000 to 80,000. With … Read more >>.

British man plans to run, cycle, swim around the world for 18 months for charity

London, Mar. 26 (ANI): An unemployed British teacher has decided to swim the Atlantic, cycle across Europe and Siberia and run across the US for 18 months for a charity cause.

Tourists took photographs when Dan Martin, 28, from Peterborough stood in scanty trunks and prepared to dive into the murky … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : British man plans to run, cycle, swim around the world for 18 months for charity.

Tory MP David Curry told to pay back #28K claimed on love-nest

London, March 26 (ANI): Tory MP David Curry has been told to pay back 28,000 pounds of expenses that he had claimed for his love-nest.

Curry, 65, who had to quit as chairman of the Standards and Privileges committee when the scandal broke last year, pocketed cash …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Tory MP David Curry told to pay back #28K claimed on love-nest.

Heads roll after Sarkozy infidelity rumours spread

PARIS – Two employees of a company that runs the website of the French weekly Le Journal du Dimanche (JDD) have been sacked for their part in spreading rumours that French President Nicolas Sarkozy and his wife had lovers, the online daily MediaPart reported Friday.

The two employees of the company Newsweb were fired Monday after … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Heads roll after Sarkozy infidelity rumours spread.

Police turn blind eye to rampant kidnapping and rape of Hindu girls in Pak’s Sindh province

Karachi, Mar.26 (ANI): A 12-year-old Hindu girl, Nandini, is still missing as police officials have failed to recover her even after four months of her being allegedly picked up by an influential individual of the city.

Officials have no information regarding … Original article on : Police turn blind eye to rampant kidnapping and rape of Hindu girls in Pak’s Sindh province.

White House crashers will be on reality show “Real Housewives”

Washington, Mar 26(ANI): White House gatecrashers, Tareq and Michaele Salahi, are poised to take center stage once again in the upcoming American reality show “The Real Housewives of D.C.”.

According to reports, and after much speculation, the couple, who infamously crashed the White House state dinner last …. Source  : White House crashers will be on reality show “Real Housewives”.

Mumbai court extends police custody of terror suspects

Mumbai, Mar 26 (ANI): The Mazgaon Metropolitan Magistrate on Friday extended the police custody of two arrested terror suspects Abdul Latif Rashid and Riyaz Ali Imtiaz till April 1.

The Mumbai Anti Terror Squad (ATS) has sought the custody …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mumbai court extends police custody of terror suspects.

Thousand-year-old idol discovered in Tamil Nadu

Chennai, Mar 26 (ANI): An ancient idol of Lord Vishnu, believed to be 1,000 years old, was uncovered during the desilting of a temple tank in Tamil Nadu’s Kooram village in Dharmapuri District.

Workers of the Water Supply and Drainage Board … Original article on : Thousand-year-old idol discovered in Tamil Nadu.

Synnex predicts fiscal 2nd-quarter profit will climb up to 20 percent

Synnex sees 2Q profit rising up to 20 percent

FREMONT, Calif. – Business services company Synnex Corp. said Thursday that it expects its profit to rise up to 20 percent in its fiscal second quarter ending in May.
Synnex expects quarterly profit of $22.1 million to $23.1 million, or 62 cents to 65 cents per share. In … Read more >>.

Wall Street Journal’s New York section to debut April 26 in bid for more readers, revenue

WSJ’s New York section to hit streets April 26

NEW YORK – The Wall Street Journal’s expanded coverage of New York will begin April 26 as the newspaper attempts to appeal to more readers in the most populous U.S. city.
The new section represents a direct challenge to The New York Times as the Journal tries to … Read : Wall Street Journal’s New York section to debut April 26 in bid for more readers, revenue.

Banning niqab would put Quebec on collision course with human rights groups: Experts

Toronto, Mar. 26 (ANI): Constitutional experts have warned that a proposed law to ban women from wearing face-covering veils on government premises could take the Canadian province of Quebec on a collision course with human rights groups.

“This legislation will probably be considered a breach of human rights. Denying people …. Original source  : Banning niqab would put Quebec on collision course with human rights groups: Experts.

Prince Charles becomes ‘only royal in living memory’ to visit war-torn Kabul

LONDON – After paying his first visit to Afghanistan, Prince Charles has become the most senior member of the royal family to travel to the war-torn country since the conflict began in 2001.

Sky News quoted Clarence House as saying … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Prince Charles becomes ‘only royal in living memory’ to visit war-torn Kabul.

Pak Army ready to drop US ‘hardware’ demand if energy, economy needs met: Kayani

WASHINGTON – Pakistan Army Chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has said that he has told US lawmakers that the country’s armed forces were ready to drop their demand for ‘hardware’ if Islamabad is assured that its energy and economic needs … Read more >>>.

Sariska tiger reserve facing acute water shortage

ALWAR – The Sariska Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan is faced with acute water shortage due to prevailing heat wave conditions, forcing officials to create artificial water holes.

“Temperature in Sariska is hovering around 35-40 degree Celsius. There is scarcity of water and animals … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sariska tiger reserve facing acute water shortage.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter in US to soon open its doors for ‘muggles’!

LONDON – A Harry Potter-themed park is set to open in Florida on June 18 this year.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will include a wand shop, Ollivanders.

The visitors will be allowed to re-enact a scene from the beginning of the …. Source  : Wizarding World of Harry Potter in US to soon open its doors for ‘muggles’!.

Tibetan experts meet to decide strategy on saving Tibet flora

DHARAMSALA – Representatives of the International Tibet Support Network (ITSN), a consortium of more than 150 Tibet groups have converged at Dharamsala to discuss and evolve further strategy on Tibet in a non-violent manner.

Fifty-two delegates from 11 different countries are participating …. Original source  : Tibetan experts meet to decide strategy on saving Tibet flora.

Rahul Gandhi visits Amethi

AMETHI – Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi visited his parliamentary constituency Amethi to take stock of ongoing development programmes.

Gandhi reportedly discussed various issues with the district officials and also interacted with the local party workers.
“Opinions were exchanged (at the meeting). Discussion about the all …. Read the original article  : Rahul Gandhi visits Amethi.

Nevada’s first legal ‘prosti-dude’ quits for want of clientele

NEW YORK – The first legal male prostitute has reportedly decided to call it quits after getting fewer than 10 customers over the past three months.

Markus, 25, an ex-Marine, who put the “dude” in prosti-dude, was the first man to be hired by Bobbi Davis to work …. Read the original article  : Nevada’s first legal ‘prosti-dude’ quits for want of clientele.

Vatican slams media over allegations Pope helped cover up sex abuse

LONDON – The Vatican has slammed the media over allegations that the Pope helped cover-up sex abuse, saying that the claim was an “ignoble” attempt to strike at the Pontiff.

The Catholic Church has been hit by a series of child abuse allegations across Europe and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Vatican slams media over allegations Pope helped cover up sex abuse.

Climate change threatening Qinghai-Tibet plateau

XINING – The Qinghai-Tibet plateau region is getting warmer and the people are clearly feeling the change.

China’s official Xinhua news agency quoted 83-year-old Hou Fusheng as saying: “It’s getting warmer every year.”
Hou has lived all his life in Xining, capital of …. Source article  : Climate change threatening Qinghai-Tibet plateau.

BSF personnel gun down two Pakistan smugglers in Punjab, seize fake currency

NAUSHERA DHALLA – Border Security Force (BSF) personnel gunned down two Pakistani smugglers and seized fake currency worth 6.5 million rupees, while the duo were attempting to sneak into Punjab’s Naushera sector.

A top BSF official said both intruders were shot dead …. Original article  : BSF personnel gun down two Pakistan smugglers in Punjab, seize fake currency.

Congress reacts cautiously to testimony of IPS officer on Babri demolition

NEW DELHI/RAE BAREILLY – The Congress party has reacted with caution to the deposition of senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Anju Gupta, who was L K Advani’s security officer during the demolition of the Babri Masjid on December 6, 1992.

Congress spokesperson Abhishek …. Source article  : Congress reacts cautiously to testimony of IPS officer on Babri demolition.

Noisome or nice? Volunteers amble through olfactory jungle of NYC to sniff out city’s scents

Volunteers amble through olfactory jungle of NYC

NEW YORK – From rotting garbage to sweet-roasting peanuts at sidewalk stands, New Yorkers are constantly bombarded with the aromas of urban life.
“You’re walking into the olfactory jungle,” said perfume designer Celine Barel of International Flavors and Fragrances on Friday at a daylong conference devoted to smells and the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Noisome or nice? Volunteers amble through olfactory jungle of NYC to sniff out city’s scents.

Dutch national Heum says he is not guilty

CHENNAI – William Heum, the Dutch national, who was arrested last year in November under the new IT Act for digital child pornography has claimed innocence.

Speaking to the media persons here on Friday, Heum sought assistance from the Dutch Embassy, saying they should help … Read more »»».

Communists protest against Centre’s anti-Maoist operation in Kolkata

KOLKATA – Scores of Communists took to the streets in Kolkata on Friday to protest against the Central Government’s anti-Maoist ‘Green Hunt’ operation.

Gathering under the banner of the ‘Struggling Left Consolidation’, the protestors took part in a rally … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Communists protest against Centre’s anti-Maoist operation in Kolkata.

Hindus seek public holiday for Diwali in New Zealand

NEVADA – Hindus have asked for Diwali as a public holiday in New Zealand.
Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, said that Diwali being the most important Hindu holy day, it was important for Hindu families to celebrate Diwali day together at home with their children.urrently … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Hindus seek public holiday for Diwali in New Zealand.

CBI court to pronounce judgement in Satyendranath Dubey murder case

PATNA – A Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in Patna will pronounce its judgement in National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) engineer Satyendranath Dubey murder case today.

The court had convicted three accused-Mantu Kumar, Udai Kumar and Pinku Ravidas for murdering Dubey on … Original article on : CBI court to pronounce judgement in Satyendranath Dubey murder case.

Miley Cyrus’ Mom’s Crush On Liam Hemsworth!

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- Starting from the multiple affairs of the celebrated golfer Tiger Woods, it appears that the media representatives are keen on revealing scandals of different celebrities from the glamor world. Though the celebrity scandal saga has started with the well-known sports personality, who has graced the golf field for years, it … Read more : Miley Cyrus’ Mom’s Crush On Liam Hemsworth!.

Gujarat riots: Modi says ready to appear before SIT panel

AHMEDABAD – Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi may appear before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) for interrogation on the 2002 Gujarat riots case on Saturday.

Sources said Modi has verbally responded to the SIT request by asserting that he is ready to appear provided a certain decorum is maintained by the investigators interrogating him on March …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Gujarat riots: Modi says ready to appear before SIT panel.

Sharif faces flak as political parties seek answers for his ‘U-turn’

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani political leaders are still grappling with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) chief Nawaz Sharif’s last minute ‘U-turn’ over the constitutional reforms package and are trying to find out as to what exactly had prompted Sharif for his sudden move.

Sharif had demanded that a “consensus” be reached before tabling the package in Parliament, despite …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sharif faces flak as political parties seek answers for his ‘U-turn’.

Pak against Taliban gaining control in Afghanistan: Qureshi

WASHINGTON – Rejecting the notion that Islamabad is providing ‘covert’ support to the Taliban in Afghanistan against foreign forces, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said there was a time when his country was ‘comfortable’ with the Taliban government, but it now does not want the insurgents to take control of the neighbouring nation.

In …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pak against Taliban gaining control in Afghanistan: Qureshi.

Abortion ban proposal to be on Colorado ballot

Abortion ban proposal to be on Colo. ballot

DENVER – A proposal to ban abortion in Colorado will be on state ballots this fall.
The Secretary of State’s Office said Friday that Colorado-based Personhood USA submitted enough valid signatures to put an abortion-ending proposal to a statewide vote this fall. The proposal would give unborn fetuses human … Original article on : Abortion ban proposal to be on Colorado ballot.

Skydiver who crashed through Texas roof was 34-year-old Hungarian national, experienced jumper

Skydiver who crashed through Texas roof ID’d

PORT ARANSAS, Texas – Authorities say a skydiver who died after crashing through the roof of a Texas condominium was a 34-year-old Hungarian national.
Port Aransas police say Peter Gerencser died Thursday after falling through the roof of the Gulfside Beach Condos. Police say he was preparing to land after …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Skydiver who crashed through Texas roof was 34-year-old Hungarian national, experienced jumper.

Obama’s 2nd pick to head TSA withdraws from consideration

2nd pick for transportation security chief is out

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s second choice for transportation security chief has withdrawn from consideration because of questions over his background as a defense contractor.
Retired Army Maj. Gen. Robert Harding took himself out of the running Friday night as head of the Transportation Security Administration, another setback for …. Original source  : Obama’s 2nd pick to head TSA withdraws from consideration.

Edmund Pillsbury, who led Fort Worth’s Kimbell Art Museum for 18 years, dies at age 66

Former Kimbell director Edmund Pillsbury dies

DALLAS – Edmund Pillsbury, who was director of Fort Worth’s Kimbell Art Museum for 18 years, has died. He was 66.
Dallas’ Heritage Auction Galleries announced Friday that Pillsbury died a day earlier of an apparent heart attack while returning from lunch with a consigner. Pillsbury had worked for Heritage for … Read more »».

There is no infiltration into India: Pakistan Rangers

ATTARI – Sticking to their earlier stand, Pakistan Rangers Director General (Punjab) Muhammad Yaqub Khan Sunday reiterated that no smuggling and infiltration was taking place from the Pakistani side into Indian territory.

The international border with India is effectively protected and well guarded. Presence of heavy security and fencing on Indian side makes infiltration and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : There is no infiltration into India: Pakistan Rangers.

India tests nuclear-capable Agni I missile

BHUBANESWAR – India Sunday afternoon successfully tested its nuclear capable surface-to-surface Agni I missile from a test range in Orissa, an official said.

The missile, which can strike a target 700 km away, was tested as part of user-trial from a facility on Wheeler Island in the district of Bhadrak by the Indian armed forces, director … Read more »».

British troops to use Call of Duty-like communication technology

LONDON – A futuristic communication technology used in popular computer games such as Call of Duty will soon be used by British troops, enabling them to see what their comrades see elsewhere on the battlefield and to talk to them as if they were standing side by side.

Scientists …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : British troops to use Call of Duty-like communication technology.

Indian Australian billionaires ban workers from eating meat on their property

PERTH – Indian Australian billionaires Pankaj and Radhika Oswal have banned workers building their Peppermint Grove mansion from eating meat, attracting the ire of the Western Australian construction union.

The building workers have been told that they cannot eat ham sandwiches or …. Original source  : Indian Australian billionaires ban workers from eating meat on their property.

Chinese city of Shaoxing named world’s top hacker hub

LONDON – An American Internet security company has named the Chinese city of Shaoxing as the world’s cyber-espionage capital.

According to a research by Symantec, almost 30 percent of “targeted attacks” were sent from China and 21.3 percent originated … Original article on : Chinese city of Shaoxing named world’s top hacker hub.

Sarah Harding’s boobs are back!

LONDON – Taking break from the band Girls Aloud has apparently done wonders for Sarah Harding’s boobs.

The blonde singer, who is dating DJ Tom Crane, has put on weight in the right places.
“Before the band I used to be a double D. Finishing the tour has meant I’ve piled the weight back …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sarah Harding’s boobs are back!.

Builders most likely to have extra-marital affairs

LONDON – Builders are the most likely workers to have extra-marital affairs, according to a new poll.

The survey, by OnePoll for extra-marital dating agency IllicitEncounters.com, has found one in five people working in construction are currently cheating on spouses, … Original article on : Builders most likely to have extra-marital affairs.

Oz woman racks up $114K in parking fines!

MELBOURNE – A woman has racked up an eye-popping 114,000 dollars debt over 360 unpaid parking tickets in less than two years, making her South Australia’s most flagrant fine evader.

The 37-year-old unidentified woman heads the list of offenders contributing to the 205 million dollars … Read more : Oz woman racks up $114K in parking fines!.

Brit boy, 7, cracks A-level maths!

LONDON – A seven-year-old boy in the UK is set to claim a place in the record books after passing A-level maths with an A grade.

Whizkid Yasha Ayari Asley, from Leicester, became the youngest person in the world to crack the A-level Core 1 maths …. Read the original article  : Brit boy, 7, cracks A-level maths!.

Prince William, Kate Middleton may get married in 2011

LONDON – If sources are to be believed, then 2011 could be the year for Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding.

The couple is under intense pressure within royal circles to finally confirm their wedding date.
William and Kate are said to be …. Original article  : Prince William, Kate Middleton may get married in 2011.

Brit woman, who had menopause at 21, now pregnant at 30!

LONDON – A woman in the UK is thanking her stars after getting pregnant following a premature menopause at just 21.

Cassie Chapple, from Woking, Surrey, discovered she was expecting just as test results confirmed her chances of becoming a mother again even with IVF were almost zero.
“My choice to … Read more >>.

Bihar villagers rescue two children abducted for sacrifice

GAYA – Villagers rescued two children who were abducted by officials of a stone-crushing plant reportedly for human sacrifice in Bihar’s Gaya District on Saturday.

The villagers alleged that the owner and employees of the plant, situated in the Manpur region of the district, had abducted the children of a … Read : Bihar villagers rescue two children abducted for sacrifice.

Maoist attacks spreading fear among Orissa locals

GAJAPATI – Locals of Orrisa’s Gajapati district are living under constant fear due to the frequent gun battles between Maoists and police personnel. Recently, three personnel of the Special Operations Group were killed in a Maoist attack in Orissa.

The incident took place when a group of 30 …. Source article  : Maoist attacks spreading fear among Orissa locals.

Kingfisher bomb: Prime suspect in custody

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The Kerala Police have placed an employee of a private cargo firm in Thiruvannthapuram in its custody for his alleged involvement in putting an explosive device on a Kingfisher flight on March 21.

The arrest is likely to be recorded later today.
Investigators have declined to identity the … Read more : Kingfisher bomb: Prime suspect in custody.

Millions of British children watching ‘BBC filth’: Report

LONDON – Millions of British children, some as young as five, are watching TV shows with explicit sex and violence scenes by using popular TV internet services such as BBC iPlayer.

An investigation by TV regulator Ofcom found that …. Source  : Millions of British children watching ‘BBC filth’: Report.

Mohini’s murder prompts Wednesday safety review of Kiwi taxi
industry

AUCKLAND – New Zealand’s taxi industry will this week find out whether cameras, shields, flak jackets, among other options become compulsory following a safety review prompted by the murder of Indian-origin taxi driver Hiren Mohini in Auckland.

New Zealand Transport Minister Steven Joyce will present his report …. Source  : Mohini’s murder prompts Wednesday safety review of Kiwi taxi
industry.

A third of all Brit men have cheated on their partners

LONDON – A new survey has found that a third of all men have had affairs, and a quarter of women have been mistresses in Britain.

The News of the World poll found that one in five married men don’t consider monogamy to be … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : A third of all Brit men have cheated on their partners.

Couple fall 10m from popular lovers’ hotspot in Sydney

MELBOURNE – Cops are looking to determine how a man and a woman fell 10m from the roof of a building in Sydney that holds out a panoramic view of Coogee Bay.

The pair, both 38, was rushed to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital after passers found them early … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Couple fall 10m from popular lovers’ hotspot in Sydney.

Maharashtra CM advances Pune visit by a day to avoid sharing stage with Big B

PUNE – Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan opted to play safe in not sharing the stage with Gujarat brand ambassador Amitabh Bachchan at a function in Pune on Sunday. Instead, he decided to visit the city on Saturday.

Chavan took the decision after …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Manipur’s first gay marriage ends in ‘divorce’

IMPHAL – The first-ever same-sex marriage in Manipur between two men in their 20s ended in a ‘divorce’ two days into their wedding following stiff opposition from their families.

Sandip, the 25-year-old ‘groom’, and Nikhil, the 28-year-old ‘bride’, who exchanged marriage vows Thursday in the presence of a modest gathering at a community hall here, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Workshop to save endangered stag organised in Srinagar

SRINAGAR – Wildlife authorities of Jammu and Kashmir have organized a workshop to formulate strategies for saving the endangered Hangul or Kashmir Stag, which is nearing extinction.

The workshop was held on Sunday (March 28) in Dachigam National Park, 25 kilometres [..] Read the original article: here.

India agrees to review Nimoo Bazgo water project’s design

LAHORE – While India has rejected six out of eight objections raised by Pakistan over the Nimoo Bazgo water project, it has agreed to review the design of the project.

During the first day of the three-day meeting of the Indus River Commission in Lahore, Pakistani officials raised concerns about the construction …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : India agrees to review Nimoo Bazgo water project’s design.

Nepal Maoists seek support from other parties to topple govt.

KATHMANDU – The UCPN (Maoist) has intensified bilateral discussions with different parties in an attempt to get their support against the current coalition government.

Maoist leaders met Madhesi Janadhikar Forum (MJF) leaders this morning.
After the meeting Maoist leaders claimed that they received support … Original article on : Nepal Maoists seek support from other parties to topple govt..

Huge cache of Maoist arms busted in Bihar

GAYA – Police seized a huge cache of arms, ammunitions and belongings of Maoists after destroying their hideouts In Bihar’s Gaya District.

In a joint operation of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Combat Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) on Sunday, eight hideouts of … Read more »»».

Primary school teachers in UK ‘most at risk of assault’

LONDON – A new survey of teachers in the UK has suggested that primary school pupils are more likely to be violent than those in secondary schools.he poll covering over 1000 teachers revealed that over one-fourth had been assaulted. One teacher [..] Read the original article: here.

‘Internet addiction to be named a disease in China’

NEW DELHI – Internet addiction among young Chinese may soon be labelled a disease, a Chinese daily has reported.

According to the Guangzhou Daily, the Ministry of Health is conducting a study on Internet addiction.
Shen Jiahong, director of …. Original source  : ‘Internet addiction to be named a disease in China’.

153 trapped in flooded mine in China

Xiangning (Shanxi, China), – At least 153 people are reportedly trapped in flooded underground coal mine, rescuers said late Sunday night.

The official Xinhua news agency said investigations showed that 261 workers were in the pit of Wangjialing Coal Mine under construction when … Read : 153 trapped in flooded mine in China.

‘Princess Di was killed to end romance with Dodi’

LONDON – The mystery surrounding the death of Princess Diana has been resurrected amid renewed claims by Britain’s renowned defence lawyer that her death was brought about by a failed attempt to end her romance with Dodi Fayed.

Michael Mansfield QC claims … Read : ‘Princess Di was killed to end romance with Dodi’.

McDonald’s employee taunts obese client with ‘fat’ receipt

LONDON – An employee working for McDonald has led an obese man to lock himself in the house after allegedly writing the word “FAT” on his receipt.

Richard Willard, who weighs 25 stone and is due for a gastric band operation, stopped at the outlet near his Sussex home …. Source article  : McDonald’s employee taunts obese client with ‘fat’ receipt.

Malaysian officials crack down on ‘marriages of convenience’

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian officials are working to expose a syndicate believed to be involved in encouraging “marriages of convenience”.

Foreign women, who arrive in search of work, were said to be hiring local men as their husbands for a monthly fee of … Read more »»».

Moscow Metro blast toll rises to 41, authorities suspect human bomb involvement

MOSCOW – At least 41 people were reportedly killed in twin explosions on the Metro system in central Moscow on Monday morning.

Following the incident, the Russian administration expressed suspicion over the blast being suicidal in nature.
Moscow’s metro is one of … Original article on : Moscow Metro blast toll rises to 41, authorities suspect human bomb involvement.

Pak Army kills 22 Taliban militants in Orakzai

PARACHINAR – The Pakistani Army reportedly killed 22 Taliban insurgents near the Afghanistan border on Sunday after a group of militants attacked an army base with rockets and utomatic weapons.

The Dawn quoted Samiullah Khan, a Pakistani government official, as saying that the fighting occurred in the Orakzai … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pak Army kills 22 Taliban militants in Orakzai.

Some suspects in FBI raids in Midwest expected in court; Christian militia may be a target

At least 3 arrests after FBI raids in Midwest

ADRIAN, Mich. – A Christian militia group was a target of at least one of a series of weekend raids the FBI conducted in Indiana, Michigan and Ohio, a Michigan militia leader says.
The FBI said Sunday that it had conducted raids in the three states, resulting in … Read more : Some suspects in FBI raids in Midwest expected in court; Christian militia may be a target.

Indian Army sounds terror alert in J-K

SRINAGAR – The Indian Army on Monday sounded a terror alert, claiming that as many as 400 infiltrators are attempting to sneak into Jammu and Kashmir.

“This is going to be hot summer terrorism-wise in Kashmir as approximately 300 militants …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Indian Army sounds terror alert in J-K.

Video of 17-year-old Swat girl’s flogging was ‘fake’

PESHAWAR – The video footage showing a 17-year-old Swat girl being publicly flogged by the Taliban has been termed a “fake” by its maker.

The Swat resident, who had shot the grainy video depicting a girl being pinned down by three men and lashed 34 times for allegedly being seen with a man who … Read more : Video of 17-year-old Swat girl’s flogging was ‘fake’.

Teen alcoholics causing an underage-drinking epidemic in Britain

LONDON – Britain is battling an underage-drinking epidemic, with thousands of under-18s being enrolled into rehab every year, according to medical experts and politicians.

New figures show that 8,000 under-18s are being admitted to A andE every year for drink-related problems.
Most of the teenagers only drink at weekends and … Read : Teen alcoholics causing an underage-drinking epidemic in Britain.

Pope refuses to be intimidated by sex abuse claims

LONDON – Pope Benedict XVI has said that the Catholic Church would “not be intimidated” by the sexual abuse scandal surrounding it.

The 82-year-old Pontiff spoke to tens of thousands of pilgrims at St Peter’s Square in a Palm Sunday service at the start of Holy Week.
“From …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pope refuses to be intimidated by sex abuse claims.

Indonesian villagers hunt for 7-meter-long python that strangled 13-year-old boy

Indonesian village hunts for 7-meter killer python

JAKARTA, Indonesia – Indonesian villagers are hunting a giant python that killed a 13-year-old boy a week ago on Sumatra island.
Police Chief Capt. Joshua Tampubolon said Monday that the 23-feet-long (7-meter-long) python was believed to be hiding in waterway tunnels built by a textile company for its industrial waste.
Villagers …. Source  : Indonesian villagers hunt for 7-meter-long python that strangled 13-year-old boy.

Indian crooner Hariharan to perform in Dhaka

DHAKA – Popular Indian singer Hariharan will perform for the first time in Bangladesh at a show to be held Thursday.

Hariharan’s latest ghazal album “Lahore Ke Rang, Hari Ke Sang”, with renowned composers from Pakistan, has won him rave reviews and critical acclaim.
He also coined the terminology “Urdu Blues” with his immensely successful album …. Read the original article  : here.

Thirty-six injured in Hyderabad communal clash

HYDERABAD – At least 36 people were reportedly injured in a clash that took place between two communities in Hyderabad.

The Rapid Action Force (RAF) and the state police were deployed in Moosa Bowli, Hussaini Alam, Purana Pul, Begum Bazar, and … Original source on Gaea Times at : Thirty-six injured in Hyderabad communal clash.

Royal Bank of Scotland fined $43 million for sharing price information with Barclays

Royal Bank of Scotland fined for competition lapse

LONDON – Royal Bank of Scotland PLC has been fined 28.6 million pounds ($43 million) for violating competition laws by sharing price data with rival Barclays PLC, the Office for Fair Trading said Tuesday.
The agency said individuals in RBS’s Professional Practices Coverage Team had disclosed generic as well …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Royal Bank of Scotland fined $43 million for sharing price information with Barclays.

Malaysian state civil service has only 10 Chinese and 116 Indians

JOHOR BARU – The 8,372-strong civil service of the Malaysian state of Johor Baru has only 10 Chinese and 116 Indians, The Star has quoted an assemblyman, as saying.

Bentayan assemblyman Gwee Tong Hian said in terms of percentage, Indians and Chinese made up 1.39 percent and 0.12 percent of … Read more >>>.

Tainted godman resigns as ‘Dhyanapeetam Ashram’ head

BANGALORE – Self-proclaimed godman Swami Nityananda, who was reportedly under the scanner ever since a video of him in a compromising position with Tamil actress Ranjitha surfaced, on Tuesday announced his decision to step down as the … Read more >>>.

Brit Muslims stigmatised and alienated”, says Commons report

LONDON – A key government policy on countering extremism in Britain has “stigmatised and alienated” Muslims and undermined community relations, a Commons report has said.

According to The Independent, many Muslims told the cross-party committee of MPs that they believed the purpose of the Prevent programme …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pak to get four F-16s by June end : Officials

WASHINGTON – The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) would receive four of the first 18 F-16 fighter jets from the US in June, senior Pakistani and American have officials said.

The fighter jets are part of the 2.9 billion dollars arms package, … Read more »»».

Nawaz says ‘U-turn’ over constitutional reforms package in ’supreme national interest’

ISLAMABAD – Defending his action of taking a U-turn over the issue of the constitutional reforms package, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) chief Nawaz Sharif has said that he has no regrets over his decision, and that he had taken it in the ’supreme national interest.’

Speaking to media persons during … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nawaz says ‘U-turn’ over constitutional reforms package in ’supreme national interest’.

ABVP agitates against AMU in Kishanganj

PATNA – Police officials baton-charged protesting activists of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad on Monday, as they staged a protest outside the Bihar Assembly against the opening of a branch of the Aligarh Muslim University in the state’s Kishanganj District.

Shouting slogans, … Read more »».

CRPF organises drug de-addiction camp in Jammu

KATHUA – In its special drive against drug abuse, the 121 battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is organising a seven-day drug de-addiction camp in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua District.

The aim of the camp, being organised in association with the … Read more : CRPF organises drug de-addiction camp in Jammu.

Kashmiri girls take up taekwondo for self-defence

SRINAGAR – Women in the Kashmir region are learning martial arts for self-defence and also to stay physically fit.

At a training centre conducted by Syed Shujat in Srinagar, nearly 100 girls from different schools are actively learning taekwondo.
The taekwondo trainees feel that the martial art would help them build their stamina … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kashmiri girls take up taekwondo for self-defence.

Karnal sessions court to pronounce judgement against Khap Panchayat killers

KARNAL – A sessions court in Karnal will on Tuesday deliver its verdict against the six Khap Panchayat members, who have been charged for the murder of a newly married couple.

The Khap Panchayat members had killed the two for they married against their will.
The court had …. Original article  : Karnal sessions court to pronounce judgement against Khap Panchayat killers.

SKorean president orders military on alert, visits Yellow Sea site where navy ship sank

SKorean president visits site where navy ship sank

BAENGNYEONG ISLAND, South Korea – South Korea’s president ordered the military on alert Tuesday for any moves by rival North Korea after the defense minister said last week’s explosion that sank a South Korean ship may have been caused by a North Korean mine.
The blast ripped the 1,200-ton …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : SKorean president orders military on alert, visits Yellow Sea site where navy ship sank.

The Sarkozys in Washington: Afghanistan, Mideast on menu for French leader’s talks with Obama

Obama set to ask visiting Sarkozy for Afghan help
WASHINGTON – France’s President Nicolas Sarkozy leaves behind a romantic sojourn in New York for an encounter he’s long been waiting for: talks Tuesday with President Barack Obama in the White House.
The meeting may boil down to one question: Will Obama persuade Sarkozy to buck …. Original article  : The Sarkozys in Washington: Afghanistan, Mideast on menu for French leader’s talks with Obama.

Military looks toward lengthy offensive in Taliban heartland expected to define the Afghan war

Military looks toward long offensive in Kandahar
WASHINGTON – The U.S. military this summer is looking toward a lengthy offensive in the Taliban heartland of Kandahar, an operation that could ultimately define the outcome of the war.
The two-month campaign, expected to begin in June, also will test President Barack Obama’s bet that tens of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hitler’s closest relatives tend cows in Austrian village

LONDON – Adolf Hitler’s closest surviving relatives are leading a quiet life in an Austrian village where they rear cows, a media report said.

Fortyfive-year-old Gerhard Koppensteiner, whose grandfather was the dictator’s first cousin, plays down the connection as he quietly looks after his cows in a village located in northern Austria.
Gerhard’s family …. Read the original article  : Hitler’s closest relatives tend cows in Austrian village.

Hijacked Indian vessels traced in Seychelles

SEYCHELLES – One out of the total eight boats that were kidnapped by Somali pirates was on Tuesday reportedly traced near the Seychelles port after the Kenyan Navy established communication with the crew.

There are reports that the authorities are giving indications that the other vessels have also been spotted in Seychelles.
Somali pirates had kidnapped the …. Original source  : Hijacked Indian vessels traced in Seychelles.

Brit men prefer to spend cash on moisturizer rather than booze!

LONDON – British men prefer to spend money on moisturizer rather than booze, a study has found.

According to the survey, almost half of blokes would give up nights out drinking in favour of face creams, aftershave or a good razor, reports The Daily Star.
And a quarter spend as much on their looks as their girlfriends, …. Source article  : Brit men prefer to spend cash on moisturizer rather than booze!.

Deadlock over Indo-Pak water issue continues

LAHORE – The deadlock between India and Pakistan over the sharing of Indus river waters continues, as no breakthrough was made during the meeting of Indus Water commissioners from both countries.

Talking to reporters after a day long meeting in Lahore, Pakistan’s Indus Water Commissioner Jamaat Ali Shah said the visiting Indian delegation was … Read : Deadlock over Indo-Pak water issue continues.

Princess Diana’s brother to sell family heirloom

LONDON – Princess Diana’s brother, Earl Spencer, has decided to sell off his family treasures to collect up to 30 million pounds, a media report said.

Earl Spencer, who plans to marry for the third time, will increase his 100 million pounds fortune by clearing out the heirloom from the ancestral home in Northamptonshire and the …. Original article  : Princess Diana’s brother to sell family heirloom.

SAARC lawmakers’ workshop begins in New Delhi

NEW DELHI – A two-day workshop on Government Performance Management for senior lawmakers of the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries began in New Delhi on Tuesday.

Cabinet Secretary K M Chandrasekhar inaugurated the programme, which is being attended …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : SAARC lawmakers’ workshop begins in New Delhi.

Three water jet fast attack crafts launched in Kolkata

KOLKATA – Three exclusive combat ships, known as water jet fast attack crafts (WJFACs), were launched for the Indian Navy by the Ministry of Defence managed Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSE) at its …. Original article  : Three water jet fast attack crafts launched in Kolkata.

Four militants, three security personnel killed in J-K encounter

SRINAGAR – The encounter in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district has come to an end and reports say that four militants and three security personnel have been killed in the exchange of fire.

There are also reports of security personnel being injured in the encounter that lasted … Read more : Four militants, three security personnel killed in J-K encounter.

Mohini’s murder prompts Kiwi Govt. to make security cameras compulsory in cabs

AUCKLAND – New Zealand Government has said that security cameras will become compulsory on taxis by the end of the year to curb serious assaults on drivers.

New Zealand Transport Minister Steven Joyce announced the decision after presenting his report …. Original source  : Mohini’s murder prompts Kiwi Govt. to make security cameras compulsory in cabs.

Polluted Ami River poses health hazards for Gorakhpur residents

GORAKHPUR – Residents of Uttar Pradesh’s Gorakhpur district are suffering from severe health hazards due to the use of polluted water from the Ami River that flows through the area.

The industrial waste and chemicals flowing in the waters have not only destroyed the flora and fauna surrounding the river, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Polluted Ami River poses health hazards for Gorakhpur residents.

Three killed in Assam road mishap

GUWAHATI – At least three persons were killed and another one injured when a Tata Safari collided head on with a Truck at Lampara on National Highway 37 near Guwahati today.

According to sources, the Safari Car was coming from Guwahati while the Truck was coming from Bako.
The …. Original source  : Three killed in Assam road mishap.

V.K.Singh takes over as Indian Army chief

NEW DELHI – Lt Gen V.K. Singh Wednesday ceremonially took charge as the 26th chief of the 1.13 million-strong Indian Army after his predecessor Gen Deepak Kapoor retired.

Singh, 59, will hold the post for the next two years.
Singh, who was GOC-in-C of Eastern Command, has vast experience in counter-insurgency operations. …. Original source  : V.K.Singh takes over as Indian Army chief.

Russian investigators warn of further terrorist attacks

MOSCOW – Russian investigators have warned of further terrorist attacks in the country following Monday’s twin bombings on the Moscow metro, and said a squad of up to 25 trained suicide bombers is still at large.

Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB), … Read more : Russian investigators warn of further terrorist attacks.

Maoists kill Congress leader in Jharkhand

RANCHI – The Maoists shot dead Congress leader Gobardhan Mahali in Jharkhand’s East Singhbhum district to protest against Operation Green Hunt in the state.

Mahali, who was the Congress president of Dalbhumgarh block in East Singhbhum district was killed late on Tuesday night, said police sources.
“Around 25 rebels of … Read more >>>.

‘Horndog High’ teachers to be charged for alleged lesbian tryst in school

NEW YORK – Two Brooklyn romance language teachers, who were caught having a naked romp in an empty classroom, are set to be charged with professional misconduct.

French teacher Cindy Mauro, 34, and Spanish instructor Alini Brito, 30, were removed from James …. Source article  : ‘Horndog High’ teachers to be charged for alleged lesbian tryst in school.

Food Corporation of India at Jaipur has liquor stored

JAIPUR – Scores of cartons containing liquor bottles were found in the warehouses meant to store wheat of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) here on Tuesday.

A huge quantity of wheat kept in gunny bags actually meant for public distribution system has been rotting outside the …. Original source  : Food Corporation of India at Jaipur has liquor stored.

Hong Kong man shoves cucumber up his a** in suicide attempt!

MELBOURNE – A Hong Kong man tried committing suicide by pushing a cucumber from behind.
However, Chin Wei, was rushed to hospital after his daughter found him lying in a pool of blood.

Doctors removed the vegetable from his …. Original article  : Hong Kong man shoves cucumber up his a** in suicide attempt!.

Delhi Doctors to separate Siamese twins

NEW DELHI – Ace surgeons in cooperation with specialists from other branches of medicine in New Delhi are planning to operate conjoined twins Sita and Gita so that they can look forward to lead normal lives.

Dr. Sanjeev Bagai, a …. Source article  : Delhi Doctors to separate Siamese twins.

Chhattisgarh to host 37th National Games in 2013

NEW DELHI – Indian Olympic Association President Suresh Kalmadi has said that Chhattisgarh will host the 37th National Games, scheduled for 2013.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh signed the host city contract with Kalmadi at a function here on Tuesday.
The state government also handed …. Source  : Chhattisgarh to host 37th National Games in 2013.

Top US military official: Kandahar operation is ‘cornerstone’ to reversing Taliban momentum

Mullen: Kandahar is key to curbing rise of Taliban

KABUL – The Pentagon’s top military officer says wresting control of the city of Kandahar in southern Afghanistan is a key to stopping the Taliban’s growing influence.
Kandahar remains the spiritual heartland of the insurgency and a stubborn holdout in NATO’s efforts to help boost the Afghan government’s … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Top US military official: Kandahar operation is ‘cornerstone’ to reversing Taliban momentum.

Pakistani troops says 6 soldiers, 25 militants killed in fighting in northwest

Taliban attack checkpoint, kill 6 Pakistani troops

PESHAWAR, Pakistan – Pakistani troops repulsed a Taliban attack on a checkpoint close to the Afghan border Wednesday in fighting that killed six soldiers and 25 insurgents, the armed forces said.
Pakistan has carried out a series of operations in the border region over the last 18 months, but the …. Source  : Pakistani troops says 6 soldiers, 25 militants killed in fighting in northwest.

Brit MPs accused in expenses scandal to face Election Day in court

LONDON – Three British MPs accused in the expenses scandal look set to spend election day in court.

According to reports, a crucial three-day hearing to decide if the politicians can be put on trial has been fixed to last from May 4 to May 6 – the expected date …. Read the original article  : Brit MPs accused in expenses scandal to face Election Day in court.

Iran still working on building nuclear weapons, says CIA report

WASHINGTON – A new report by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has said that Iran is still working on building nuclear weapons despite technical setbacks and international resistance.

The CIA report is the latest official study …. Original article  : Iran still working on building nuclear weapons, says CIA report.

Burkha-clad Saudi housewife poised to win Middle East ‘Pop Idol’

LONDON – A burkha clad Saudi housewife has strong chances of winning reality show ‘Million’s Poet’, which is equivalent to ‘Pop Idol’in Middle East.

Hissa Hilal has impressed many with her radical poetries criticizing attitudes to women in her … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Burkha-clad Saudi housewife poised to win Middle East ‘Pop Idol’.

Fatima Bhutto charges ‘uncle’ Zardari, says my father’s killers leading nation

KARACHI – Former Pakistan President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s grand daughter, Fatima Bhutto, has charged ‘uncle’ President Asif Ali Zardari for orchestrating the murder of her father, Mir Murtaza Bhutto, saying the killers of her father are ‘ruling the country at present’.

Speaking during …. Source  : Fatima Bhutto charges ‘uncle’ Zardari, says my father’s killers leading nation.

UN commission probing Benazir’s assassination delays report on Zardari’s behest

ISLAMABAD – The United Nations (UN) has delayed publishing the report of its commission, which was set up to probe former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s assassination, on President Asif Ali Zardari’s request.

The report, which was …. Original article  : UN commission probing Benazir’s assassination delays report on Zardari’s behest.

No individual can decide on DMK’s leadership: Karunanidhi

CHENNAI – Reacting to elder son M K Azhagiri’s statement that he cannot accept anyone as the leader of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam after his father, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi on Wednesday said that no individual can … Original article on : No individual can decide on DMK’s leadership: Karunanidhi.