Israeli flotilla inquiry will question prime minister Netanyahu, defense chief

Israeli flotilla inquiry to question premier

JERUSALEM – The head of the Israeli inquiry into last month’s deadly naval raid on a Gaza-bound flotilla says he will summon the prime minister for questioning.
Retired Supreme Court Justice Jacob Turkel announced the plans Monday during the opening session of the five-member commission.
The body is investigating the raid that … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Israeli flotilla inquiry will question prime minister Netanyahu, defense chief.

Vote counting under way in Guinea after West African nation’s first free election

Vote counting under way in Guinea after election

CONAKRY, Guinea – Electoral officials in Guinea say they are counting votes from the West African country’s first free election since independence more than half a century ago.
Thierno Seydou Bayo, spokesman for the independent electoral commission, says a preliminary tally could be released as early as Tuesday.
Bayo said …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Vote counting under way in Guinea after West African nation’s first free election.

Ten injured as security forces stop march to Sopore

SRINAGAR – Ten protesters were injured when security forces intercepted a large procession here, marching towards north Kashmir’s Sopore town, where another youth was killed in firing by security forces Monday.

Around 10,000 protesters started a march towards Sopore from different parts of the Old City areas of Srinagar Monday morning.
As the protesters reached …. Read the original article  : here.

Women spend 16,000 pounds on shoes in lifetime

LONDON – An average woman in Britain spends a staggering 16,000 pounds on shoes in her lifetime, reveals a new survey which also shows that a quarter of the women rarely tell their partner about new shoes as “he wouldn’t understand”.

Girls purchase their first pair of shoes without their mother when they are 14. Thereafter, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Women spend 16,000 pounds on shoes in lifetime.

ITBP Hands Over Ancient Mummy

SHIMLA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- ITBP handed over a 545 year old mummy to the Himachal Pradesh State Government. Reportedly, the mummy discovered by ITBP is housed in the make-shift temple in the village of Giu which is located at a distance of 340 kms from Shimla. On Sunday, Himachal Pradesh State Government declared its plans to … Read more »»».

Youth killed as mob defies curfew in Kashmir town

SRINAGAR – A youth was killed when security forces opened fire in north Kashmir’s Sopore town at an agitated mob that defied curfew restrictions Monday morning, police said.

A senior police officer said the victim was identified as Tajamul Ahmad Bhat, son of Bashir Ahmad Bhat of Wadoora in Sopore.
Bhat succumbed to a bullet … Original article on : Youth killed as mob defies curfew in Kashmir town.

Chidambaram likely to visit Kashmir next week

JAMMU – Home Minister P. Chidambaram, who has just returned from Pakistan, is likely to visit Jammu and Kashmir that has seen violent protests in the past few weeks, official sources said Monday.

Chidambaram has conveyed to the state government that he would try and review the situation in the state, possibly over the weekend, the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chidambaram likely to visit Kashmir next week.

Prince Harry Plays Polo

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- The third annual Veuve Cliquot Polo Classic match that was played at the Governor’s Island witnessed Prince Harry galloping his horse all over the ground. Reportedly, the polo match was played to benefit Prince Harry’s charity; “American Friends of Sentebale” which works for the children of Lesotho in Africa.
Prince Harry was all …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Prince Harry Plays Polo.

Ghana army chief visits India

NEW DELHI – Ghanaian Army Chief, Major General Joseph Narh Adinkrah, Monday began a four-day visit to India aimed at strengthening defence cooperation between the two countries.

Adinkrah will be meeting ministry of defence (MOD) and senior military officials, besides visiting United Service Institution (USI) and the Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK) in the capital. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ghana army chief visits India.

North Korea to enhance nuclear deterrence

SEOUL – North Korea announced Monday it would bolster its nuclear arsenal in a “newly developed way” in response to perceived US hostility, reports said.

Tensions have been rising on the Korean Peninsula since the sinking of a South Korean warship near the maritime border in March, which investigators blamed on a North Korean torpedo, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : North Korea to enhance nuclear deterrence.

Assailants vandalize UN summer camp in Gaza in second such attack in 2 months

UN summer camp in Gaza vandalized
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip – Two dozen masked men vandalized a U.N. summer camp for children in Gaza early Monday, burning and slashing tents, toys and a plastic swimming pool. It was the second such attack in a month.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack, but Islamic …. Source  : Assailants vandalize UN summer camp in Gaza in second such attack in 2 months.

Rohtang Tunnel work launched by Sonia Gandhi

SOLANG – Congress president Sonia Gandhi Monday laid the foundation stone for the world’s longest tunnel at an altitude of over 13,300 feet under the Rohtang Pass which, when completed, will ensure year-round accessibility to Lahaul and Spiti valleys of Himachal Pradesh.

Gandhi initiated the excavation work by operating an excavator near the southern portal of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Rohtang Tunnel work launched by Sonia Gandhi.

An Egyptian woman’s crusade against divorce

DUBAI – In traditional Egyptian society where women are blamed for divorces, a young divorcee has launched an online radio station to help out fellow women overcome the stigma of divorce and come out stronger.

Inspired by her own experience of divorce, Mahasen Saber, 31, a mother to a five-year-old boy, launched the Motalakat Radio for …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : An Egyptian woman’s crusade against divorce.

A mistake that fetched a bonanza

MELBOURNE – A woman in this Australian city doubled her lottery winning after mistakenly buying two tickets for the draw. She won a cool $1.4 million.

The woman, who chooses her numbers by her children’s birthdays, bought an extra ticket that helped doubled her winnings.
“I thought my ticket had expired so I bought another one … Read this article on Gaea Times at : A mistake that fetched a bonanza.

Spouse can be more stressful than boss: British poll

LONDON – Your spouse can be more stressful than your boss, says a new poll in Britain.

As many as 58 percent of the people who took part in the poll said that their partner caused stress, while 43 percent of the respondents thought that stress was caused by their office senior.
The poll was carried … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Spouse can be more stressful than boss: British poll.

Sopore tense as mob protests youth’s killing

SRINAGAR – Thousands of people Monday defied strict curfew restrictions in Kashmir’s Sopore town where they took to the streets carrying the body of a 23-year old youth for burial, a day after he was killed in firing by the security forces.

Security forces fired warning shots and tear gas shells, and resorted to repeated baton …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sopore tense as mob protests youth’s killing.

An Indian bookstore in cyberia for queer folks

NEW DELHI – This bookshop in cyberspace is queer…literally! It caters to the country’s alternative community of lesbians, gays, bisexuals and trans-gender (LGBT) people and stacks up on genres like history of queer life, erotica and queer lingo.

Called Queer-INK, the e-store will be formally inaugurated July 2 and is a tribute to the LGBT community, …. Original article  : An Indian bookstore in cyberia for queer folks.

FBI helping State Department in investigation of Colorado woman missing in Nepal

FBI helping hunt for American missing in Nepal

GREELEY, Colo. – The FBI says it’s helping the U.S. State Department in the investigation of a Colorado woman who disappeared while trekking alone in Nepal.
Denver FBI spokesman Dave Joly (JOLLY) said Sunday the agency is also working with Nepalese authorities on the disappearance of 23-year-old Aubrey Sacco … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : FBI helping State Department in investigation of Colorado woman missing in Nepal.

Obama says there’s an ‘obsession’ with timing of US pullout from Afghanistan

Obama cites ‘obsession’ on Afghanistan timeline
TORONTO – President Barack Obama says there’s been, as he calls it, “a lot of obsession” about the issue of when U.S. troops will leave Afghanistan.
Obama says his focus right now is on making sure the U.S. mission in Afghanistan is successful.
Obama reiterated Sunday that a plan to … Read more : Obama says there’s an ‘obsession’ with timing of US pullout from Afghanistan.

Obama says G-20 accords prove nations could bridge differences

Obama says G-20 produced important progress
TORONTO – President Barack Obama on Sunday said he welcomed an international commitment for rich countries to slash their deficits in half by 2013, despite his earlier warnings against halting stimulus spending too abruptly.
“We can’t all rush to the exits at the same time,” Obama told a news …. Source  : Obama says G-20 accords prove nations could bridge differences.

Indian Navy Chief In Sri Lanka

COLOMBO (GaeaTimes.com)- Admiral Nirmal Verma, the Indian navy chief reached the capital of Sir Lanka Sunday for an official tour. After 2004, this is the first high profile visit. INS Delhi, Indian Navy’s guided missile destroyer and one of the biggest warships made in India has also reached Colombo port. The Indian navy chief …. Original article  : Indian Navy Chief In Sri Lanka.

Witnesses say UN vehicle was shot up in Afghanistan’s capital, driver hurt

UN vehicle shot in Afghan capital, driver hurt

KABUL, Afghanistan – A U.N. vehicle was shot up at a busy traffic circle in Afghanistan’s capital Tuesday, and at least one person was hurt, witnesses said.
An Associated Press reporter at the scene saw a white pickup truck with a blue U.N. logo painted on the side: Its … Read : Witnesses say UN vehicle was shot up in Afghanistan’s capital, driver hurt.

Jharkhand’s youngest eye donor

RANCHI – The eyes of a two-and-half-year-old girl were donated to an eye bank after her death, and a doctor here said she was the youngest eye donor in Jharkhand.

Zia fell ill Saturday after suffering from high fever. She died Monday in Ranchi during treatment.
It was from the cremation ground that her father … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jharkhand’s youngest eye donor.

Napoleon’s hair auctioned in New Zealand

AUCKLAND – A lock of French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte’s hair was part of a collection of relics from the last year’s of his life that were auctioned in this New Zealand city.

Napoleon’s lock of hair, which is preserved in a case, fetched $19,000 while a sketch of the French leader on his death bed went …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Napoleon’s hair auctioned in New Zealand.

‘Too hot’ ex Citi-banker files sex discrimination complaint

WASHINGTON – Debrahlee Lorenzana, who was fired from her Citibank job for ‘being too sexy’, has filed a sex discrimination complaint against her former employer.

She and her attorney, Gloria Allred, are asking for a human rights investigation.

Lorenzana, 33, had …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Too hot’ ex Citi-banker files sex discrimination complaint.

Eyewitnesses say UN vehicle was shot up in Afghanistan’s capital, at least 1 hurt

Witnesses say UN vehicle shot up in Afghan capital

KABUL, Afghanistan – A U.N. vehicle was shot up at a busy traffic circle in Afghanistan’s capital Tuesday, and at least one person was hurt, witnesses said.
An Associated Press reporter at the scene saw a white pickup truck with a blue U.N. logo painted on the side: …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rescued teen sailor Abby Sunderland returns to Southern California marina where voyage began

Teen sailor returns to port where her voyage began

MARINA DEL REY, Calif. – The teenage girl forced to abandon her dream of sailing around the world is returning to the port where her journey began five months ago.
But 16-year-old Abby Sunderland won’t be returning to Marina del Rey in the boat in which she left … Original article on : Rescued teen sailor Abby Sunderland returns to Southern California marina where voyage began.

Google changes access to China site after Beijing objects following censorship dispute

Google changes China access after Beijing objects

BEIJING – Google Inc. said Tuesday it will stop automatically rerouting users of its China search site to its Hong Kong site after Beijing said the company would lose its mainland Internet license if the tactic continued.
Google shut down its China-based search engine March 22 to avoid cooperating with …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Google changes access to China site after Beijing objects following censorship dispute.

Miss Cornwall stripped of crown for lying

LONDON – A teacher has been stripped of her beauty queen crown after organisers found that she was lying about her age from past five years.

Miss Cornwall Laura Anness, who has entered a number of beauty pageants from Miss Universe GB to Miss Motors, told organisers that she was 22 in 2006 and then …. Original source  : Miss Cornwall stripped of crown for lying.

Prince Harry desperate to return to Afghanistan

LONDON – Prince Harry has confessed that he wants to return to Afghanistan to serve Queen and the country.

The soldier Prince even said that he would love to be deployed back to the country where he first faced war for ten weeks during 2007-08.

“I would love to go back, I really would. As … Original source on Gaea Times at : Prince Harry desperate to return to Afghanistan.

Baloch leader meets Joe Biden, draw attention to Balochistan’s situation

WASHINGTON – President of Baloch Society of North America (BSO-NA), Dr. Wahid Baloch met US Vice-President Joe Biden to draw his attention to the ongoing military operation and enforced involuntary disappearances in Pakistani and Iranian occupied Balochistan.

“Secular Baloch are being hanged everyday by Iranian Mullah and killed and kidnapped by Pakistani Jihadi Islamic terrorist army … Original article on : Baloch leader meets Joe Biden, draw attention to Balochistan’s situation.

China’s military to conduct live-fire sea drill in wake of scheduled US-Korea joint exercises

China to conduct live-fire sea drill this week
BEIJING – China will start six days of live-fire drills off its eastern coast Wednesday amid plans for joint U.S.-Korea military exercises in the region.
The People’s Liberation Army will ban all vessels from entering a large portion of the East China Sea from midnight until 6 … Read more »».

Pak ‘hedging bets’ on Haqqanis following US”dithering’ over Afghanistan

NEW YORK – The persisting ambiguity over the US’ decision to pull out of Afghanistan has encouraged Pakistan and its all powerful intelligence, the Inter Services Intelligence (ISI), to continue supporting militant groups like the Haqqani network and “hedge their bets”, a senior American intelligence official has said.

“They’ve been burned and they’ve seen this movie …. Source  : Pak ‘hedging bets’ on Haqqanis following US’ ‘dithering’ over Afghanistan.

Ten Russian secret agents living in ‘deep cover’ arrested in US

WASHINGTON – The FBI has arrested ten secret agents of the Russian government living in “deep-cover” in the United States and engaged in Cold War-style espionage, in a coordinated operation.

According to The Telegraph, the FBI has accused the SVR, the successor organisation to the Soviet Union’s KGB, of running a network of “illegals”, described in …. Source article  : Ten Russian secret agents living in ‘deep cover’ arrested in US.

Injured NJ hiker rescued from NH mountain, Northeast’s highest peak, via 19th-century railway

NJ hiker rescued from NH mountain by 1800s railway

MOUNT WASHINGTON, N.H. – An injured New Jersey hiker has been rescued from the Northeast’s highest peak via an old railway.
New Hampshire state police contacted the Fish and Game department Monday evening about the hiker, on Gulf Side Trail on Mount Washington.
Personnel from the Appalachian Mountain Club … Original article on : Injured NJ hiker rescued from NH mountain, Northeast’s highest peak, via 19th-century railway.

Violence continues in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – The Kashmir Valley continued to simmer Tuesday as violence spread to the southern region leaving one person injured in firing by security forces while curfew was clamped in many parts to quell angry protests over eight civilian killings.

Stone pelting mobs took to streets at many places in the summer capital Srinagar as … Read more »».

Pathology report delays Indian toddler Gurshan’s death case in Australia

MELBOURNE – Three-year-old Indian kid Gurshan Singh Channa’s death case has been adjourned pending receipt of a pathology report.

Gurshan was found dead near Australia’s Melbourne airport on March 4. A council worker found Gurshan’s body in the grass by the side of a road in March, about 20 kilometres from his family’s home in Lalor, … Original article on : Pathology report delays Indian toddler Gurshan’s death case in Australia.

‘Fired’ US Afghan war commander McChrystal set to retire

LONDON – General Stanley McChrystal, the top US commander in Afghanistan who was sacked last week for his scathing remarks against the White House’s Afghan policy, has decided to retire.

“He told the army today he’s going to retire,” The Telegraph quoted Army spokesperson Colonel Thomas Collins, as saying.

The four-star general told the office that manages …. Source article  : ‘Fired’ US Afghan war commander McChrystal set to retire.

Mumbai attacks aimed at igniting Indo-Pak war: Malik

LAHORE – Pakistan Interior Minister Rehman Malik has said that the November 2008 terror attacks, in which over 173 people were killed and over 300 injured, was actually aimed instigating a full scale war between India and Pakistan.

“The criminals responsible for carrying out the Mumbai attacks wanted to instigate a war between India and … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mumbai attacks aimed at igniting Indo-Pak war: Malik.

Victorian SC jails Indian origin man for beating wife to death with stake

MELBOURNE – A 44 -year-old Indian origin man, Sukhmander Singh, was sentenced to 17 years jail for beating his wife to death with a wooden stake on the Valley Lake Boulevard at Niddrie on May 7, 2009.

According to The Age, Singh pleaded guilty to the murder of his wife and will serve a minimum … Read more »».

Egypt’s archaeologists discover secret unfinished tomb inside pharoah’s grave

Egypt finds unfinished secret tomb inside grave

CAIRO – Egypt’s antiquities department has announced the excavation of an unfinished tunnel, possibly meant to be a secret tomb, inside a 3,300-year-old pharaoh’s grave.
The 570-foot long tunnel (174 meters) stretches away from the main tomb of New Kingdom Pharaoh Seti I (1314-1304 B.C.) descending two staircases before abruptly … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Egypt’s archaeologists discover secret unfinished tomb inside pharoah’s grave.

Popular South Korean actor-singer hangs himself in country’s latest high-profile suicide

Popular South Korean actor-singer commits suicide

SEOUL, South Korea – A popular South Korean actor and singer killed himself Wednesday in distress over career pressures while caring for his terminally ill father, police said in the latest in a recent string of high-profile suicides in the Asian country.
Park Yong-ha, 33, was believed to have “impulsively” hanged … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Popular South Korean actor-singer hangs himself in country’s latest high-profile suicide.

Hundred days after fire: Stephen Court is a ghost building

KOLKATA – The dreadful scenes of people jumping to their deaths and mangled and completely charred bodies – mainly of youngsters – being taken out in heaps from the gutted floors of Stephen Court are still fresh in public memory. A hundred days after the killer fire engulfed its major portions, the landmark mansion on …. Source article  : Hundred days after fire: Stephen Court is a ghost building.

Security forces say 15 Maoists killed in Narayanpur ambush

RAIPUR – Security forces suspect that at least 15 Maoists might have been killed during Tuesday’s Narayanpur ambush in Chhattisgarh.

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) lost 24 personnel in a Maoist ambush in Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur District on Tuesday.

The dead included a CRPF Assistant Commandant Jatin Gulati.

This was the third …. Original article  : Security forces say 15 Maoists killed in Narayanpur ambush.

Army stages flag march in Kashmir town

SRINAGAR – The army staged a flag march in north Kashmir’s Baramulla town Wednesday to defuse tensions that had arisen after violence leading to the deaths of several youths in clashes with security personnel in the valley over the past week.

A senior police officer said a contingent of the army led by a brigadier staged …. Source  : Army stages flag march in Kashmir town.

Sick Australian feels better after lottery win

MELBOURNE – An Australian woman who had called in sick from work “sounded a lot better” after being informed that she won $17 million in a lottery.

The 40-year-old woman had hit it big in Tuesday night’s $50 million Super 7’s Oz Lotto draw.
She hadn’t watched the draw and was informed about the win the …. Source  : Sick Australian feels better after lottery win.

Dumping car for ‘Metro’ can help you shed six pounds a year

LONDON – Dump your car and head for the Metro, for it not only helps you save the traffic trauma, but also to shed the pounds and keep you trim, so claim researchers, who have discovered that public transportation increases physical activity to such an extent, that an average person drops more than six pounds … Original article on : Dumping car for ‘Metro’ can help you shed six pounds a year.

FBI says Russian spies used High-tech espionage to carry out operation

WASHINGTON – Court papers made public by the Justice Department have revealed that that the Russian suspects accused of spying in the U.S. were using high-tech espionage to carry out their operation.

According to Fox News, the group used private wireless networks to transmit files, passed data on USB memory sticks and sent text messages, which …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nagaland Home Minister nabbed with illegal cash at Kathmandu Airport

KATHMANDU – Nagaland Home Minister Imkong L Imchen was arrested with Rs nine lakh in cash at Kathmandu Airport on Wednesday.

The minister was allegedly carrying a suitcase full of Indian currency.

According to the sources, Rs 500 currency notes are banned in Nepal, and the cash recovered from Imchen was in Rs 500 and Rs …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nagaland Home Minister nabbed with illegal cash at Kathmandu Airport.

Dr. ‘Death’ Patel manslaughter verdict may not survive appeal, warns judge

MELBOURNE – An Australian judge has warned that Indian-origin surgeon Dr. Jayant Patel’s guilty verdict may not survive in the Queensland Court of Appeal.

Justice John Byrne has indicated that the verdicts might not survive due to the Criminal Code, which did not recognise misdiagnoses and wrongful decisions to operate as potential criminal acts.

From day … Read more >>.

Chennai transgenders spread awareness about their plight

CHENNAI – The transgender community in Chennai organised a cultural show with the aim of sensitising the masses about their life and problems.

This unique event was held under the auspices of SWAM on Tuesday.

Over 200 transgenders, including sex workers, participated in this unique event.

On the occasion, a movie depicting the life of a queer was …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chennai transgenders spread awareness about their plight.

Manipur doctors stage protests against militant threats

IMPHAL – Doctors, interns and other paramedical staff of Regional Institute of Medical Science (RIMS) in Manipur staged a sit-in demonstration on Tuesday to protest against the extortion and life threats posed by regional militant outfits.

Dr. Y Mohen Singh, the Superintendent of the RIMS Hospital, said militant outfits use women for collecting the extortion …. Read the original article  : Manipur doctors stage protests against militant threats.

Unemployed medicos in Bihar polish shoes in protest against the state administration

PATNA – Unemployed medicos in Patna polished footwear in protest to voice their anguish at not being given any employment by the State government.

Under the banner of Health and Education Reform Association, the protesting doctors with stethoscopes around their necks polished the shoes here on Tuesday.

Graduate doctors of Darbhanga Medical College Hospital (DMCH) and …. Source  : Unemployed medicos in Bihar polish shoes in protest against the state administration.

Amaranth Yatra commences under tight security

JAMMU – The annual Amarnath Yatra began on Wednesday with the first batch of 557 pilgrims leaving for the Himalayan cave shrine of Amarnath from here.

Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Tourism Nowang Ringzin Jora flagged off the convoy of pilgrims, escorted Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel.

The first batch of pilgrims, including 261 men, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Osama hunter ‘American Rambo’ says Qaeda’s now put a bounty on his head

NEW YORK – The American construction worker who was nabbed in Pakistan’s Chitral region while on a solo mission to hunt down and kill Al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden earlier this month, has claimed that he is now on top of Qaeda’s hit list.

Gary Brooks Faulkner, who was dubbed “Rambo” and the “American Ninja,” bragged …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Osama hunter ‘American Rambo’ says Qaeda’s now put a bounty on his head.

Honey trade tainted by dirty dealings as some Chinese makers try to skirt US import taxes

Chinese honey trade tainted by dirty dealings

BEIJING – A Chinese businessman has been convicted of trying to get around U.S. import taxes by sending 15 shipping containers of cut-rate honey to the Philippines to be relabeled and sent on to the United States.
The practice called honey-laundering is just one of many unsavory acts besmirching China’s …. Read the original article  : Honey trade tainted by dirty dealings as some Chinese makers try to skirt US import taxes.

Former Israeli spy faces deportation hearing in Calif. amid US claims he’s a terrorist threat

Former Israeli spy faces US deportation hearing

SAN DIEGO – The 32-year-old son of one of Hamas’ founders is getting his turn in U.S. immigration court.
Mosab Hassan Yousef argues before an immigration judge in San Diego on Wednesday that he will be killed if deported because he was a top spy for Israel for a decade …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

India hopes to launch ‘Chandrayaan-2??? by 2013

KOLKATA – The Chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) K Radhakrishnan has said India is preparing to launch its second moon mission ‘Chandrayaan-2′ by 2013.

“The Chandrayaan-2 we are planning to have in the year 2013 and by that time we should have our GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle) flying with the Indigenous Cryogenic …. Read the original article  : India hopes to launch ‘Chandrayaan-2′ by 2013.

Buddhist-Muslim Dialogue at Ladakh to promote communal harmony

LEH – A three-day long Buddhist-Muslim Dialogue and seminar ‘Addressing Violence: Religious Resources for Conflict Resolution 2010′, is being held at Leh.

Hosted by Mahabodhi Devachan Centre, the objective of the seminar has been to bring together influential representatives of these two great religious traditions.

Expert theologists have endeavoured to create a deep and enduring partnership … Read : Buddhist-Muslim Dialogue at Ladakh to promote communal harmony.

Maoists issue call for shutdown in five states

RAIPUR – A day after 26 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed and seven were injured in a Maoist ambushed in Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur District, the rebels have called for a shutdown in Jharkhand, Bengal, Orissa, Bihar and Chhattisgarh.

Besides these five states, two Maoist strongholds in Gadchiroli and Bhandara districts of Maharashtra …. Read the original article  : here.

Men ‘less enthusiastic about work than women’: UK study

LONDON – A UK study has found that men are less enthusiastic about work than women until retirement time comes, when they are seen bouncing back with renewed interest in their jobs.

The research, which was carried out by University of Portsmouth scientists, Darren Van Laar and Simon Easton, comes as the Government plans to raise … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Men ‘less enthusiastic about work than women’: UK study.

Analysis and outcome of Toronto G-20 summit

WASHINGTON – The G-20 Summit held in Toronto June 27 and 28 was heavy on promises and lean on concrete action items, notes the Task Force on Financial Integrity and Economic Development.

While the G20 expressed a strong desire to “close the development gap,” increase transparency,and tackle corruption and money laundering, there was a notable … Read : Analysis and outcome of Toronto G-20 summit.

Al Gore is a pervert and sexual predator, says masseuse

NEW YORK – Molly Hagerty, the masseuse who alleged that Al Gore assaulted her sexually, has claimed that he is ‘a pervert and sexual predator.’

The redheaded 54-year-old massage therapist finally decided to lift the curtain on her identity and insists her tawdry tale is true.

“Al Gore is a pervert and sexual predator. He’s not what … Read : Al Gore is a pervert and sexual predator, says masseuse.

Kerala’s milk co-operative MILMA launches milk ATM in Kochi

KOCHI – Now it is not only the money that can be drawn from the ATM machines but also pasteurised milk packets and curd by inserting a smart card in Kerala.

Milma installed Any-Time Milk-vending Machines (ATMs) as a pilot project in the city to provide milk to its customers.

The first of its kind ATMs … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kerala’s milk co-operative MILMA launches milk ATM in Kochi.

William S. Merwin of Hawaii named US poet laureate by the Library of Congress

William S. Merwin named 17th US poet laureate

WASHINGTON – A writer who stopped using punctuation in the 1960s and spent much of the last 30 years secluded in Hawaii will become the nation’s next chief poet.
The Library of Congress is announcing Thursday that William S. Merwin will become the 17th U.S. poet laureate this fall. … Original article on : William S. Merwin of Hawaii named US poet laureate by the Library of Congress.

Indian Railway Introduces Food Service

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Indian railways has been trying hard to improve the quality of its various services apart from running trains in time and introducing new trains. Its initiatives like e ticketing and booking airplane tickets online have received great response from the passengers. It is also trying to offer more variety in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indian Railway Introduces Food Service.

China welcomes visit by US defense chief at a time ‘appropriate to both sides’

China welcomes Gates visit at ‘appropriate’ time

BEIJING – An official report says the U.S. defense chief would be welcome to visit China at a time “appropriate to both sides.”
The offer reported Thursday by the official Xinhua News Agency comes just weeks after China rejected an offer to visit by U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates.
Xinhua quoted …. Source article  : China welcomes visit by US defense chief at a time ‘appropriate to both sides’.

Three Maoists arrested in Jharkhand

LATEHAR – Three Maoists were arrested in Jharkhand’s Latehar District on Wednesday.

The rebels were arrested from a jungle near Chandawa of Latehar.

Among those arrested is Dewakar, an area commander of the People’s Liberation Front of India (PLFI).

“He (Dewakar) was involved in many terrible criminal activities in the region. His sub-zonal commander was also arrested … Original article on : Three Maoists arrested in Jharkhand.

US officials link al-Qaeda figure Shukrijumah to NY subway bomb plot

WASHINGTON – US officials have indicated that Adnan Shukrijumah, a top al-Qaeda figure, helped plot last year’s attempted bombing of the New York subway system.

According to the Fox News, the Justice Department has named him in a draft indictment saying that Shukrijumah met with one of the would-be suicide bombers, but not yet filed … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US officials link al-Qaeda figure Shukrijumah to NY subway bomb plot.

‘Pak politicians with fake degree liable to 80 lashes under Islamic law for lying’

ISLAMABAD – Former Pakistan Law Minister Sher Afgan Niazi has said that a member of parliament holding a fake degree not only faces disqualification, but is also liable to be awarded 80 lashes under the Islamic law for lying.

Niazi said that under the Hadood laws, the offenders are liable to be punished under Qadaf Had …. Source  : ‘Pak politicians with fake degree liable to 80 lashes under Islamic law for lying’.

School withdraws free condoms to elementary school students offer

NEW YORK – The controversy over condoms being given to elementary school students has been put to rest, with the Cape Cod school district Superintendent saying they will not be distributed to 6-year-olds.

School Superintendent Beth Singer also apologized to Provincetown locals and parents on June 29 for the “misunderstanding” that elementary school students would be …. Read the original article  : here.

‘Insulting’ your spouse can now send you to the slammer in France

LONDON – Couples who insult each other can now end up being jailed under a new French law, which has made “psychological violence” a criminal offence.

The law, which is a first of its kind, is applied to partners who make insults or threats of physical violence, and it means that they could end up … Read more »».

Revisit paramilitary deployment in Maoist-hit areas: Chidambaram

New Delhi, 1 July (ANI): Union Home Minister P Chidambaram has said a rethink is required on the deployment of security forces in the Maoist affected areas.

“Some of these deployments must be revisited (so as to ascertain) whether they are serving any purpose. I hope the Chief Minister will hold discussions with the CPMF … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Revisit paramilitary deployment in Maoist-hit areas: Chidambaram.

Afghan military officers to be trained in Pakistan

KABUL – Afghanistan’s President Hamid Karzai has agreed to send some military officers to Pakistan for training.

According to the Washington Post, this is a significant policy shift, and signals a deepening relationship between the long-wary neighbors.

The paper further says that the move should be seen as a victory for Pakistan, which seeks a major … Read more »».

Al Qaeda seeks to expand audience with launch of first English website

WASHINGTON – Al Qaeda is promoting the upcoming online release of its first English magazine called “Inspire,” promising Anwar Al Alwaki, the America born cleric linked to several terror attacks on the United States, as one of its first guest writers.

According to the Fox News, it is a dangerous move made by the terror … Read more >>>.

Sri Lanka denies deal with ‘rump Tamil Tigers’

LONDON – Sri Lanka has denied reports that the government is forming an ‘alliance’ with the supporters of the Tamil Tigers.

According to BBC, Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa has said that he had recently met a group of ‘pro-LTTE’ diaspora Tamils in the country to discuss issues of humanitarian concern in the country.

“The visitors … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sri Lanka denies deal with ‘rump Tamil Tigers’.

Pak-China nuclear deal ‘peaceful’, under IAEA safeguards: Basit

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has reiterated that its nuclear deal with China is purely for peaceful purposes, and is under the safeguards of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Abdul Basit said that the peaceful nuclear deal is nothing new, and stated that it has been already underway for producing electricity.

“Pakistan has been …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Film on Barack Obama’s childhood premieres in Jakarta

LONDON – Film based on Barack Obama’s life as a child in Indonesia is being premiered in the capital Jakarta.

‘Obama The Menteng Kid’, based on a book, is a fictionalised biography of the boy who became the US president.

The title of the film refers to the Jakarta neighbourhood where the US President lived and … Read more : Film on Barack Obama’s childhood premieres in Jakarta.

NATO’s new commander in Afghanistan briefs alliance on escalating war

Petraeus briefs NATO on Afghan mission
BRUSSELS – Gen. David Petraeus, NATO’s newly appointed commander of the Afghanistan war, is briefing alliance officials about his plans for the escalating conflict.
Officials say Petraeus is meeting with Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen and will address the North Atlantic Council, the alliance’s top decision-making body, on … Read more »».

Orissa submits plan for development in Maoists hit areas

BHUBANESWAR – The Orissa government has submitted an integrated action plan to the centre on expediting development work in some of the areas worst hit by Maoists activities, an official said here Thursday.

The Maoists are active in more than half of state’s 30 districts. The government, however, has submitted its plan for carrying out various …. Source  : Orissa submits plan for development in Maoists hit areas.

Spokesman for striking Los Angeles-Long Beach port clerks says contract talks may resume

Talks could resume in SoCal port clerk strike

LOS ANGELES – A spokesman for the union that represents striking clerical workers at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach says negotiators have agreed to restart talks with shippers and terminal operators soon.
John Fageaux Jr. says negotiators for both sides could return to the table as [..] Read the original article: here.

Poll ranks Obama as the 15th best president of US

WASHINGTON – A new poll of leading presidential scholars by Siena College has ranked Barack Obama as the 15th best president of the United States, just below former President Bill Clinton, but ahead of Ronald Reagan.

According to Politico, in the overall ranking, Obama was rated two places below Clinton, who was the 13th best, … Read more »».

Petraeus rules out drastic changes in Afghan war policy

BRUSSELS – NATO’s newly appointed Afghan war commander General David Petraeus has ruled out any drastic changes in the counterinsurgency policies which were implemented by his sacked predecessor General Stanley McChrystal.

Briefing allies at the NATO headquarters here before taking up his new job in Afghanistan, Petraeus said that despite a rise in military casualties in … Read : Petraeus rules out drastic changes in Afghan war policy.

Pak, Iran behind Taliban attacks on Brit troops in Afghanistan: UK Gen.

LONDON – Pakistan and Iran are helping the Taliban to carry out bomb attacks on British troops in Afghanistan, a general has said.

According to The Telegraph, British military intelligence has found evidence that some of the improvised explosive devices (IED) attacks are being supported from outside Afghanistan.

“We are looking beyond Afghanistan in …. Original source  : Pak, Iran behind Taliban attacks on Brit troops in Afghanistan: UK Gen..

For Gaza’s antique auto aficionados, car conservation is a labor of love

Gazans stage first-ever display of classic cars

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip – In this besieged land where every bumpy road quickly reaches a dead end of fences and walls, vintage car collecting is not exactly a typical hobby.
But in a first-ever show here, Gaza’s small cadre of antique auto aficionados unveiled their classic roadsters this week … Read : For Gaza’s antique auto aficionados, car conservation is a labor of love.

Turkish military says warplanes bomb Kurdish rebel positions in northern Iraq

Turkish jets bomb Kurdish rebels in northern Iraq

ANKARA, Turkey – Turkey’s military says its warplanes have bombed Kurdish rebel bases in northern Iraq over the past two days.
The military’s statement says the air force jets bombed the main rebel base on Mt. Qandil on the Iraqi-Iranian border and the Hakurk area in northeastern Iraq, on …. Read the original article  : Turkish military says warplanes bomb Kurdish rebel positions in northern Iraq.

Chelsea Clinton ‘to marry beau in upstate NY’

WASHINGTON – Chelsea Clinton is planning to exchange marital vows with fiancee Marc Mezvinsky in the upstate New York village of Rhinebeck on July 31.

According to a local resident, Clinton and Mezvinsky will wed at a private mansion just outside the town about two hours north of New York City, reports the Washington Post. …. Original source  : Chelsea Clinton ‘to marry beau in upstate NY’.

Malaysian Fritzl on the run after repeated rape of daughters for 6 months

KUALA LUMPUR – In a case reminiscent of Austrian incest father Josef Fritzl, a 40-year-old man in Malaysia is on the run following accusations that he had been raping his three daughters, sometimes all in one night.

The girls, aged 11, 13 and 14, said they were regularly forced out of their sleep to satisfy …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Malaysian Fritzl on the run after repeated rape of daughters for 6 months.

US sex slave awarded $20m settlement for 18 yrs in captivity

NEW YORK – Jaycee Lee Dugard, the woman who was kidnapped at age 11 and was turned into a sex slave by her abductor, will get 20 million dollars for the 18 years she lost in captivity.

Dugard will be getting about a million dollars for every year she lost when she was kidnapped by paroled … Original article on : US sex slave awarded $20m settlement for 18 yrs in captivity.

Catholic priest John Denham jailed for 20 years on child sex charges

MELBOURNE – Catholic priest John Sidney Denham has been jailed for almost 20 years on child sex charges against 25 boys in New South Wales between 1968 and 1986.

According to The Australian, the sentence was handed down in Sydney’s Downing Centre District Court today, with the judge saying many victims were left feeling terrified and …. Source article  : Catholic priest John Denham jailed for 20 years on child sex charges.

Illegal arms trade flourishing in popular Nepal tourist area

KATHMANDU – The central Kathmandu tourist district of Thamel has become a center for illegal trade in guns and small arms.

According to the BBC, Kathmandu’s police chief said the area was becoming increasingly violent because of its popularity with the city’s drug dealers and criminals.

With cheap restaurants, backpacker hostels and shops, Thamel has long been …. Original article  : Illegal arms trade flourishing in popular Nepal tourist area.

Sino-Pak nuclear reactors open to IAEA inspection: Qureshi

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has reiterated that the agreement with China for setting up of two nuclear reactor is in accordance with international laws, and that Islamabad would always be open for inspection of these reactors by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Interacting with media persons on the sidelines of …. Read the original article  : Sino-Pak nuclear reactors open to IAEA inspection: Qureshi.

Russian spy admits ‘working for state intelligence service’

LONDON – A suspected Russian spy, Juan Lazaro, recently arrested by US authorities has confirmed his ties with the Russian intelligence service.

According to The Telegraph, US authorities have confirmed suspect Juan Lazaro admitting that he had been providing information to the Russian intelligence service with the help of his wife and co-suspect Vicky Pelaez.

Lazaro also …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Russian spy admits ‘working for state intelligence service’.

Gore ‘unequivocally and emphatically’ denies ‘crazed sex poodle’ allegations

WASHINGTON – Former Vice President Al Gore is defiant, as new investigations have been launched by police into his alleged sexual assault case.

Molly Hagerty accused Gore last week of behaving like a ‘crazed sex poodle’ when he allegedly tried to grope her during a massage session in a hotel in Portland.

Although he has welcomed the …. Source  : Gore ‘unequivocally and emphatically’ denies ‘crazed sex poodle’ allegations.

Portland police admit goof up in Al Gore sex case

WASHINGTON – Portland police have admitted that they did not follow standard operating procedures during an earlier enquiry in the Al Gore alleged sexual assault case.

The police re-opened the case against the former Vice President after his accuser, Molly Hagerty, came forward publicly.

Investigators typically interview potential corroborating witnesses and anyone accused, law enforcement officers say, …. Original article  : Portland police admit goof up in Al Gore sex case.

A Sky High Carpark For Brisbane Airport!

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA, (GaeaTimes.com)- Ned Kahn, an artist from the United States will soon present the Brisbane Airport with a sky high artwork. This piece of artistry will be seen in the car parking space of the airport’s domestic terminal reported the authorities of the Brisbane Airport. The eight storeyed piece of work has already …. Original article  : A Sky High Carpark For Brisbane Airport!.

I didn’t use Viagra, says Britain’s oldest father

LONDON – Raymond Calvert, who became Britain’s oldest father at 78 after fathering a child with a woman who is 54 years younger to him, says: “The baby was planned and I did not use Viagra or anything like that.”

Raymond and Charlotte Calvert, 25, have become proud parents of a baby boy.
He was … Read this article on Gaea Times at : I didn’t use Viagra, says Britain’s oldest father.

No green means no red-white-and-blue spectacular for some cities and towns this July Fourth

No bucks, no boom for Fourth of July
WASHINGTON – Expect fewer booms this July Fourth because of financial busts in some cities and towns.

As many folks pack up picnics and head to see the fireworks this holiday weekend, the skies over a couple dozen cash-strapped communities will be still of the spectacular crackle of color …. Original source  : No green means no red-white-and-blue spectacular for some cities and towns this July Fourth.

Imphal shopkeepers protest against militant threats

IMPHAL – Shopkeepers in Manipur closed their establishments on Thursday in protest against militants, after a bomb was found in a market.

The bomb was left inside a pharmacy in the Khwairamband Market.

Ranbir, the owner, who discovered the poly bag containing the explosive, said there was also a piece of paper in it that read … Read more »»».

Maoist-led govt acceptable in Nepal if past pacts implemented: UML

KATHMANDU – The CPN-UML has said the leadership of the UCPN (Maoist) for the next government could be considered only if the latter implements past agreements.

A standing committee meeting of the party held here on Thursday to review the new political scenario in the country in the wake of Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal’s resignation …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Maoist-led govt acceptable in Nepal if past pacts implemented: UML.

Employment Report Becomes Matter Of Concern

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- Employment reports for the month of June was released by the Labor Department on Friday. The weak employment report held in front of everybody the fact that the economy is not blooming as expected and rather the economic recovery has slowed down. If on one hand the report shows a dip in … Original article on : Employment Report Becomes Matter Of Concern.

26pc of Americans don’t know what country US fought to gain its independence

NEW YORK – Don’t know anything about history? Well, then don’t worry, as you are not alone.

A new poll has found that a whopping one in four Americans have no clue which country the United States declared its independence from.

In a new Marist College poll, a shocking 26 percent failed to identify Great Britain … Read : 26pc of Americans don’t know what country US fought to gain its independence.

Pak security committee warns government to be cautious during talks with India

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s National Parliamentary Committee on Security has warned the federal government to be careful while negotiating with India for peace, it has been reliably learnt.

“Yes, we have held some special sessions before and after the recent talks with Indian officials, and warned our government to be careful,” a top senator, who is a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pak security committee warns government to be cautious during talks with India.

Vijayashanthi arrested for alleged inflammatory speeches

HYDERABAD – The Hyderabad police on Saturday took into its custody actor-turned politician and Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) Member of Parliament Vijayashanthi for allegedly making inflammatory speeches.

The Andhra Pradesh Chief Electoral Officer had earlier issued notice to her in the matter.

It has been reported that Vijayashanthi made provocative remarks at a Telangana Rashtra Samiti meeting … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Vijayashanthi arrested for alleged inflammatory speeches.

Transport operators on strike in Assam over hiked fuel prices

Assam July 3: (ANI) Public transport operators in Assam are on strike in protest against hike in fuel prices. Vehicles such as taxis, auto-rickshaws and trekker station wagons remained off the roads in Guwahati, the state’s principle city.

Although the government has not increased fares, the Assam Bus and Trekker Station Wagon Association increased the fares …. Source article  : Transport operators on strike in Assam over hiked fuel prices.

US intelligence to warn sailors to beware of pretty strangers

WASHINGTON – The American intelligence community is likely to spend years addressing how spies, including Russians recently, could have infiltrated the U.S. so easily and for so long.

Those lessons are already taking hold in the military. The Marines are using a picture of Anna Chapman to warn sailors not to put their trust in beautiful … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US intelligence to warn sailors to beware of pretty strangers.

Vietnamese acupuncturist’s male virginity test relieves 3 of rape charges

WASHINGTON – A Vietnamese acupuncturist is making headlines by claiming that she can detect a man’s virginity based on a small dot on the ear-a test that has helped in freeing three convicted rapists from prison.

Traditional medicine practitioner Pham Thi Hong started lobbying for the men’s release, and even went on to plead their case …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Vietnamese acupuncturist’s male virginity test relieves 3 of rape charges.

Oz flight attendant’s union calls for end to ’sex object’ ads

LONDON – The Flight Attendants Association of Australia (FAAA) has called on airlines around the world to stop portraying them as sex objects in raunchy advertising campaigns.

The association said the risque airline ads were “demeaning” and that they increased the risk of airhostesses becoming victims of sexual harassment.

It cited the campaign promoted by a … Read more »».

Germany’s First Lady turns heads with her height, glamorous outfits, tattoo

LONDON – Germany’s First Lady Bettina Wulff has caught the nation’s eye with her towering height, striking looks, glamorous outfits, and the large tattoo she sports on her right shoulder.

Bettina, 36, a communications manager, had met her husband Christian Wulff, 51, on a business trip, and she had become the media’s favourite even before he … Original source on Gaea Times at : Germany’s First Lady turns heads with her height, glamorous outfits, tattoo.

Forced marriage cases among Pak, Indian communities on the rise in UK

LONDON – Forced marriages in the Indian and Pakistani communities in Britain are on the rise, according to a Government report.

The Sydney Morning Herald, quotes the Forced Marriage Unit as saying that over the past year the number of calls from men … Read more : Forced marriage cases among Pak, Indian communities on the rise in UK.

Kiwi MP’s pro-China blog appalls Tibet’s friends

AUCKLAND – A member of parliament of Chinese origin is facing fierce criticism for defending Chinese rule over Tibet on a Labour Party website.

Criticising Green Party co-leader Russel Norman’s Tibetan flag protest in front of visiting Chinese Vice-President Xi Jinping, MP Raymond Huo, wrote: “What Westerners …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kiwi MP’s pro-China blog appalls Tibet’s friends.

Lahore shrine attack Taliban’s retaliation against military offensive: Pak official

WASHINGTON – A top Pakistan intelligence official has held the Taliban responsible for the ghastly suicide attack on the Hazrat Data Gunj Bukhsh shrine in Lahore in which at least 42 people were killed and over 174 were injured on Thursday.

The official, who spoke on conditions of anonymity, said that the terror …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

The nuances of stone pelting in Kashmir

NEW DELHI – Stone pelting has once again achieved centre stage in the politics of Kashmir.

The Valley is witnessing massive agitations accompanied by violence and stone pelting since the beginning of June this year.

There is a need to look for a pattern in the agitational scenario that has been unfolding since the few years. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : The nuances of stone pelting in Kashmir.

Ethnic Kiwi taxi drivers scared of racist attacks

CHRISTCHURCH – Taxi drivers of ethnic origin in New Zealand have said they are scared of driving at night, as they believe that is the time when drunk and abusive passengers frequently carry out racially-motivated attacks.

Afghan origin taxi driver Abdul Salimi, who is based in Christchurch for the last nine years, no longer fancies driving …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ethnic Kiwi taxi drivers scared of racist attacks.

Relatives of Mumbai’s serial killer create ruckus at police station

Mumbai , July 3: (ANI) Angry relatives of a prime suspect in the recent Mumbai serial killings, Ahmad Javed Shaikh, created a ruckus at the city’s Nehrunagar police station on Friday.

They argued with police officials and also accused them of having unofficially detained more people for interrogation in relation to the serial murder and rape …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Relatives of Mumbai’s serial killer create ruckus at police station.

Two Russian spy suspects admit to using fake names to live in US

WASHINGTON – Two members of the alleged Russian spy ring have confessed to using fake names and backgrounds to live in the United States as a couple for years, a court filing revealed today.

The Arlington, Virginia, couple, who lived under the names Michael Zottoli and Patricia Mills, have also revealed their true names to federal … Read more >>.

India’s dabbawallahs planning to increase service charges by Rs 50

Mumbai, July 3: (ANI)After facing a substantial dip in profits due to escalating costs of vegetables, dairy products and transportation, the dabbawallahs of Mumbai are contemplated a hike in service charges.

“The prices of essential commodities have increased significantly, this is why we have decided to hike our rates by Rs 50, so that we [..] Read the original article: here.

Mentor Mullen Says McChrystal is ‘crushed’ over his sacking

WASHINGTON – The Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullen, has revealed that former NATO commander General Stanley A. McChrystal is “crushed” about his sacking following his derisive statements against the civilian leadership.

According to Admiral Mullen, the shock of a transition from commanding nearly 100,000 American troops in Afghanistan to …. Original article  : Mentor Mullen Says McChrystal is ‘crushed’ over his sacking.

Texas Tech chess player earns grandmaster title

TEXAS – A Texas Tech University Knight Raiders chess team member, Davorin Kuljasevic, attained the chess world’s highest ranking by earning the final norm for a grandmaster title.

He registered five wins and four draws at the 2010 Pula Open in Croatia to become the first Knight Raider to enter the elite ranks of the approximately [..] Read the original article: here.

UK, US researchers present report on de-radicalizing the radicals

WASHINGTON – Individual de-radicalization and disengagement programs, such as those in Saudi-Arabia, Singapore, Indonesia and other nations, ‘can make a difference,’ according to researchers at the National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism (START) which is based at the University of Maryland and the International Center for the Study of Radicalization … Read more >>.

Thomas Jefferson was no closet royalist

WASHINGTON – Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of the American Delcaration of Independence and one of founding fathers of the US, was by no means a closet royalist, a new study has confirmed.

Using high-resolution spectral imaging, The Library of Congress revealed that Jefferson, on the third page of a “rough draught,” wiped the word “subjects” … Read more >>>.

Bihar: Six people of family murdered.

Patna July 4: (ANI) Six members of a family were murdered in Bihar’s Muzaffarpur district early on Sunday, police said.

Unidentified assailants shot them dead in Khabra residential locality in Muzaffarpur.

The killings have led to panic among the residents of the area who demanded arrest of culprits. (ANI)
… Original source on Gaea Times at : Bihar: Six people of family murdered..

Landslide disrupts toy train services in Darjeeling, disappointing tourists

Kolkata, July 4: (ANI) The services of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), also known as Toy Train, has been suspended due to a landslide in the hills, disappointing hundreds of tourists coming here from different parts of the country.

The landslide took place on the National Highway 55 severely damaging the narrow gauge track on which the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Landslide disrupts toy train services in Darjeeling, disappointing tourists.

Pre-monsoon rains cool Delhi

NEW DELHI – Pre-monsoon showers cooled New Delhi down by several notches on Sunday.

After days of dealing with severe heat, the capital woke up to a thick cloud cover and rain, bringing down the soaring mercury.

The temperature, which was hovering around 40s on Saturday, plunged to 26 degrees Celsius.

However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) …. Original article  : Pre-monsoon rains cool Delhi.

‘Russian spy’ Anna Chapman had her eyes on Princes William and Harry

LONDON – Bosses at the British intelligence agency MI5 are investigating an extraordinary link between Anna Chapman, the red-haired beauty accused of spying for Russia, and the royals.

Chapman, 28, was fixated with princes William and Harry and schemed her way into their social circle, it has emerged.

She made repeated visits to Boujis, the nightclub haunt … Read : ‘Russian spy’ Anna Chapman had her eyes on Princes William and Harry.

‘Tippler’ Harry gets ratted on just 3 beers!

LONDON – Prince Harry is surely feeling down in the dumps following his split with long-time girlfriend Chelsy Davy.

The prince, who has earned quite a name for being a party animal, got drunk on just three beers at the Wireless festival, London, and called it a night at 9.30pm.

“Harry had flown in from …. Original article  : ‘Tippler’ Harry gets ratted on just 3 beers!.

Body of Indian national found from sea in Malaysia

GEORGE TOWN – The body of an unemployed Indian national in Malaysia, who jumped into the sea after attacking his ex-girlfriend, has been found along the shore near Jelutong Expressway here.

A prawn fisherman, Abdul Rahim Saiful Rahman, said that he was hoping to catch some prawns along the shore when he discovered the body. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Body of Indian national found from sea in Malaysia.

Meet the world’s tallest couple!

LONDON – The world’s tallest married couple live in Dagenham, East London.

Wilco Van Kleef-Bolton at 7 feet and wife Keisha at 6 feet 5 inches, are the world’s tallest married couple.

The couple that holds the Guinness World Record has four-year-old son Lucas, who’s already the size of a seven-year-old and two-year-old sister Eva, 3 … Read more >>.

Jelly made from Princess Di’s hair goes on sale

LONDON – A jelly made from the hair of late Princess Diana has gone on sale for 5 pounds in the UK.

The jam uses a ’speck’ of her hair purchased from a US dealer on eBay.

Makers Bompas and Parr developed the preserve for a surrealist exhibition at London’s Barbican, where it sold out …. Source article  : Jelly made from Princess Di’s hair goes on sale.

Never received any complaint from Pak regarding access to military aid: US

WASHINGTON – The United States has rejected Pakistan’s complain regarding delay and other problems concerning the military aid being received from Washington.

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Howard Berman said the Obama administration said the US has never been told about any issue facing the transfer of military hardware to Islamabad.

“If Pakistan is facing any problem … Read more >>.

Prices of vegetables, fruits shoot up in Ahmedabad

AHMEDABAD – The price rise in fuel has led to a rise in prices of vegetables and fruits in Ahmedabad as transportation rates of the commodities have increased.

Consumers say that the fuel price hike was enough to increase their problems, but now the rise in vegetable prices has made it more difficult for them to …. Original article  : Prices of vegetables, fruits shoot up in Ahmedabad.

Lebanon’s top Shiite cleric, Mohammed Hussein Fadlallah, dies in hospital near Beirut at 75

Lebanon’s top Shiite cleric Fadlallah dies at 75

BEIRUT – Lebanon’s top Shiite cleric and influential sheik has died after an illness. He was 75.
An official at Behnam hospital south of Beirut, where Grand Ayatollah Mohammed Hussein Fadlallah was being treated, confirmed his death on Sunday. He spoke on condition of anonymity, pending an official announcement.
Fadlallah’s …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Lebanon’s top Shiite cleric, Mohammed Hussein Fadlallah, dies in hospital near Beirut at 75.

New Delhi Airport Receives Paresh Maity Painting

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The New Delhi airport not only has a new terminal but also a masterpiece by a master artist. Painter Paresh Maity’s best work to date will now be seen inside the campus of the New Delhi international airport.
“The Indian Odyssey” by Paresh Maity is being held as one of … Original source on Gaea Times at : New Delhi Airport Receives Paresh Maity Painting.

Gen. Petraeus formally assumes command in Afghanistan, says ‘we are in this to win’

Petraeus: ‘We are in this to win’ in Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – Gen. David Petraeus formally assumed command of the 130,000-strong international force in Afghanistan on Sunday, declaring “we are in this to win” despite rising casualties and growing skepticism about the nearly 9-year-old war.
During a ceremony at NATO headquarters, Petraeus received two flags – one … Read more >>>.

Illness makes Brit woman a sexual predator

LONDON – A British woman has revealed that she craves for sex ten times a day – but far from being promiscuous she has a rare medical situation that’s ruining her life.

Donna Glover is suffering from an unquenchable lust that makes her hit on strange men, wrecks relationships and has forced her to give … Read : Illness makes Brit woman a sexual predator.

‘Russian spy’ Anna Chapman’s ex opens up about their kinky sex life

LONDON – ‘Russian spy’ Anna Chapman’s Brit ex-husband Alex Chapman has opened up, in detail, about their kinky sex life.

For the first time, Alex opened up about the kind of relationship he shared with Anna.

“I found her Russian accent such a turn-on,” News of the World quoted Alex as saying.

“The sex was great … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Russian spy’ Anna Chapman’s ex opens up about their kinky sex life.

TN students spread awareness about global warming through sand art

Chennai July 4: (ANI) To spread awareness about global warming, students from various schools and colleges have come together to create sand sculptures in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

Highlighting the importance of growing trees, the students made sculptures depicting global warming, trees, skeleton, industrial waste and the Bhopal gas tragedy.

The New Society Organisation, a non-governmental organization, encouraged …. Read the original article  : TN students spread awareness about global warming through sand art.

New Delhi Airport Has A New Terminal

New Delhi, India, (GaeaTimes.com)- Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has inaugurated a new terminal in the New Delhi airport, Palem. The new terminal has been opened keeping in mind the increase in the air traffic over the past couple of years. India is one of the world’s most populous countries and also a tourist attraction … Read this article on Gaea Times at : New Delhi Airport Has A New Terminal.

BSF seizes drug worth Rs 155 crore in Amritsar

AMRITSAR – The Border Security Force (BSF) has seized 31 kilograms of heroin worth Rs 155 crore in the international market from a village in Amritsar.

BSF DIG Mohhammad Aquil said that that the consignment of the contraband, concealed in two pieces of cloth, was found at village Channa in Ajnala sector.

“These are approximately one kilogram … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : BSF seizes drug worth Rs 155 crore in Amritsar.

Commonwealth Games: Queen’s Baton reaches Chandigarh

CHANDIGARH – The Queen’s Baton Relay for the 2010 Commonwealth Games (CWG) reached Chandigarh on Saturday.

Legendary athlete Milkha Singh, along with cricketer Kapil Dev and Olympic gold medallist shooter Abhinav Bindra passed on the celebrated baton to each other in a one kilometre long relay.

Hundreds of spectators gathered at the city stadium to witness the … Read more : Commonwealth Games: Queen’s Baton reaches Chandigarh.