Palin says building mosque near Ground Zero is ‘unnecessary provocation’

NEW YORK – Former Alaska Governor and 2008 Republican vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin has said that plans for building a mosque near Ground Zero (the place where the twin towers of the World Trade Center once stood) is completely avoidable.

In Tweet released Sunday, Palin, who is seen as a potential 2012 presidential candidate, was quoted … Read more »»».

Obama’s Monday: Mercury astronaut, champion Phoenix Mercury team _ and salute to Broadway

Obama’s Monday: Mercury astronaut, Mercury team
WASHINGTON – Back from a weekend vacation, President Barack Obama is welcoming a Mercury astronaut and the Phoenix Mercury women’s basketball champions to the White House. The day that will end with the East Room resounding with the music of Broadway.
The president begins his week with remarks about …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama’s Monday: Mercury astronaut, champion Phoenix Mercury team _ and salute to Broadway.

Remains of Australian, UK WWI soldiers discovered in mass grave in France given proper burial

WWI troops found in mass grave reburied in France

FROMELLES, France – The remains of last of 250 Australian and British soldiers whose bodies were discovered in a mass grave were being reburied Monday on the 94th anniversary of the bloody World War I battle of Fromelles.
Prince Charles and top Australian officials were to attend the …. Read the original article  : here.

Fresh batch of 2083 pilgrims leave for Amarnath

JAMMU – A fresh batch of 2,083 pilgrims left here on Monday for their onward journey to the holy Amarnath cave shrine.

The batch comprising 1,333 men, 517 women, 42 children and 191 sadhus, left in a cavalcade of 65 vehicles from the base camp at Bhagwati Nagar.

With today’s batch, as many as 52,249 pilgrims have …. Read the original article  : Fresh batch of 2083 pilgrims leave for Amarnath.

Eleven killed in Allahabad road accident

ALLAHABAD – At least 11 people were killed and 12 others injured, when a jeep in which they were travelling collided head on with a truck near the Varanasi-Allahabad National Highway today.

The mishap took place in Uttaraon police station area.

All the injured have been admitted to a hospital and the driver of the truck has …. Read the original article  : here.

Heavy rains affect pineapple production in parts of West Bengal

CALCUTTA – Heavy rainfall has affected pineapple cultivation in parts of West Bengal.

According to Kajal Ghosh, the President of the Pineapple Merchant Association, production was normal this year but heavy rain fall and overflow of water damaged the pineapple.

Farmers, who were expecting a good crop this year, are now facing losses.

“This year production was …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Heavy rains affect pineapple production in parts of West Bengal.

Son claims Osama’s family ’stranded’ in Iran

LONDON – Omar bin Laden, the son of Al Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden, has claimed that some members of the family are “stranded” in Iran and under house arrest since 2001.
He has called on Tehran to release them.

The Telegraph quoted him, as saying: “I think the time has come for my family members to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Disaster relief personnel help rail accident victims in West Bengal

NEW DELHI – Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Monday deployed five teams of National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) consisting of 140 personnel to assist in the rescue and relief operations following the train accident at Sainthia in West Bengal’s Birbhum District.

Three teams have already reached the site and the remaining two will be … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Disaster relief personnel help rail accident victims in West Bengal.

Pak of vital strategic importance for securing Afghanistan and region: expert

ISLAMABAD – Experts have said that U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s visit to Islamabad, ahead of the Kabul Conference, will go beyond negotiating tactics regarding peace in the region.

Clinton is on a two-day Pakistan visit, where she will announce a 500 million dollar funding for new projects aimed at improving water, energy, agriculture, … Read more : Pak of vital strategic importance for securing Afghanistan and region: expert.

Krishna to attend international conference on Afghanistan’s future

New Delhi, July 19 (ANI0: External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna will leave on Monday afternoon for Kabul, where he will attend a day-long international conference on Tuesday on the future of Afghanistan.

Official sources said that apart from Krishna, 69 other world leaders would discuss steps for peace, stability and rehabilitation of Afghanistan.

Afghanistan, according to sources, … Read more >>.

5 civilians die in battle in Somali capital; 10 children hurt when mortar hits school

5 Somalis killed in Mogadishu battle
MOGADISHU, Somalia – An emergency official in Somalia’s capital says at least five people have died during a battle between Islamist militants and government forces backed by African Union peacekeepers.

Ali Muse, the head of Mogadishu’s ambulance service, said Monday that the dead bodies of four men and one woman were …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Greek journalist killed by gunmen in Athens

Greek journalist gunned down in Athens
ATHENS, Greece – Authorities say a Greek journalist has been gunned down outside his home in Athens.

Thirty-seven-year-old Sokratis Giolias died after being shot more than 15 times in the capital’s neighborhood of Ilioupoli before dawn Monday.
Giolias headed the radio station Thema FM and wrote on a popular online news blog, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Greek journalist killed by gunmen in Athens.

Maryland tries to balance security, sensitivity to faith in death row inmates’ final moments

Md. weighs allowing inmates’ own clergy at death

ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Maryland is considering becoming one of the few states to allow condemned inmates to choose a clergy member not employed by the state to be in the execution chamber when they die.
Corrections officials must balance some sensitive issues: security during one of the gravest tasks … Read : Maryland tries to balance security, sensitivity to faith in death row inmates’ final moments.

Washington Post probe documents growth of spending, manpower on intelligence since Sept. 11

Post documents growth of intelligence since 9/11

WASHINGTON – Since the terror attacks of Sept. 11, top-secret intelligence gathering by the government has grown so unwieldy and expensive that no one really knows what it cost and how many people are involved, The Washington Post reported Monday.
A two-year investigation by the newspaper uncovered what it termed …. Original source  : Washington Post probe documents growth of spending, manpower on intelligence since Sept. 11.

Labelle And Von Teese Austrian Show Halted Over Thunderstorm

An open air AIDS charity concert in Austria, which was set to include performances from R&B star PATTI LABELLE and burlesque dancer DITA VON TEESE, was cut short on Saturday (17Jul10) after a thunderstorm ripped through the area.
Former U.S. President Bill Clinton and actress Whoopi Goldberg were also due to take to the … Read more : Labelle And Von Teese Austrian Show Halted Over Thunderstorm.

Arms and ammunitions recovered from militant hideout in Poonch

SRINAGAR – Arms, ammunition and medicines were recovered from a militant hideout in the Beri Rakh forest, following gun-battle between security forces and militants in Poonch District.

“If you look at the manufacturing stamps on the recoveries, it clearly indicates that these people have infiltrated and have come from the Pakistan side. Till now we have …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bad roads in Himachal Pradesh causing transportation worries for apple growers

NARKANDA – Apple orchard owners and transporters in Himachal Pradesh have reportedly lodged a formal complaint with the state government about the poor condition of roads.

They claim that the poor quality of roads could affect the transportation of the early varieties of apples to the plains.

They said the state’s highway number one and National Highway-22, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Bad roads in Himachal Pradesh causing transportation worries for apple growers.

Gaya residents organise medical camp in Maoist-affected areas

GAYA – Residents in the Gaya region of Bihar organised a free health check up camp to help the people in the Maoist affected region on Sunday.

The camp witnessed the participation of thousands of poor people from different villages.

“This is a Naxal (Maoist) affected area, and because of that, common people face a lot …. Original article  : Gaya residents organise medical camp in Maoist-affected areas.

Punjab police arrests four Sikh militants

CHANDIGARH – Police in Punjab arrested four Sikh militants, belonging to the banned Babbar Khalsa International extremist group and recovered arms and explosives from them in the state’s Ludhiana District.

Harminder Singh, Jaswinder Singh, Gurujant Singh and Manjinder Singh were nabbed early on the Sunday.

“All these persons are key members of the Babbar Khalsa International, terrorist …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

TDP shutdown in Andhra Pradesh over Naidu’s arrest

HYDERABAD – The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has called for a shutdown across Andhra Pradesh on Monday to protest the arrest of its chief, Chandrababu Naidu.

Naidu was arrested along with 75 other politicians, including MPs, state legislators and former ministers, by Maharashtra Police on Friday for violating prohibitory orders.

They were taken into preventive custody as … Original source on Gaea Times at : TDP shutdown in Andhra Pradesh over Naidu’s arrest.

Lucknow University: Poor Sanitary Conditions

LUCKNOW, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Lucknow University may be one of the toppers in academics but when it comes to toilet facilities, they really needS a change. Reportedly, Lucknow University and many colleges accredited under it doesn’t have a separate loo for the girls.
Jai Narain Degree College has a unisex lavatory with pathetic sanitary conditions. Moreover, it [..] Read the original article: here.

Sweeper becomes police officer in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Through his sheer grit and determination, a young man working as a sweeper in Jharkhand has bagged a job as Deputy Superintendent of Police after clearing the state public service examination.

Roshan Gudia, who works as a sweeper in a primary health centre of Simdega district, cleared the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) examination …. Original source  : Sweeper becomes police officer in Jharkhand.

Net-savvy US man appears to be Al-Qaeda magazine editor: Experts

WASHINGTON – U.S. intelligence analysts believe that a 24-year-old North Carolina man, who left for Yemen last October, may be the editor-in-chief of a newly launched Al-Qaeda online magazine.

According to the experts, Samir Khan appears to be the editor-in-chief of Inspire, which features bomb-making instructions and an article by Usama bin Laden.

The magazine [..] Read the original article: here.

‘Flying Pasties’ can preserve your modesty from airport scanners

MELBOURNE – A Las Vegas company has launched a product called “Flying Pasties”, which it claims can help preserve a passenger’s modesty from full-body airport scanners.

“Flying Pasties”, which come in the form of orange rubber stickers, have been designed to be placed inside or on top of a traveller’s underwear and obscure their private parts.

The … Read more >>.

Brit bakery creates world’s biggest cream scone

LONDON – A bakery in Britain has smashed the record for the world’s biggest cream scone.

It took 24 hours to create the 6ft wide 18ins thick scone, which consists of 14kg of flour, five pounds of sugar and 20 pints of pure buttermilk, and it was then topped off with 18kg of clotted cream and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indian Coast Guard rescues 28 crew of merchant ship near Mumbai

MUMBAI – The Indian Coast Guard has rescued a merchant vessel that was in distress on the high seas off the country’s western coast, thus saving 28 crewmembers, including six foreigners.

Narendra Visfote, Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Defence disclosed this in Mumbai on Monday.

He said that the UK registered vessel M.V Khalijia-3, fully loaded with …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indian Coast Guard rescues 28 crew of merchant ship near Mumbai.

Oz police chief opens office in India

NEW DELHI – Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commissioner Tony Negus today opened the first AFP office in New Delhi, India.

This represents a strengthening law enforcement relationship between India and Australia.

Commissioner Negus said the AFP was committed to working with India to combat criminal threats affecting both Australia and India and that the office opening in … Read more >>>.

Heinrich Himmler was duped into believing sand could be turned into gold

LONDON – A book has claimed that Heinrich Himmler, chief of the SS – a major Nazi organization under Adolf Hitler- had set up a secret unit in the Dachau concentration camp before the Second World War after becoming convinced that he could turn sand into gold.

Gold was vital for the Nazi regime in … Read more »».

Just one in ten police officers free to fight crime in UK: Report

LONDON – A British watchdog report has raised fresh concerns over the police’s ability to protect the public, after it disclosed that just one in ten police officers is free to tackle crime at any given time, as the majority of them are either off work or tied down with other duties.

The ‘Valuing the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Just one in ten police officers free to fight crime in UK: Report.

Army Chief claims improvement in northeast region

SHILLONG – Chief of Army Staff, General VK Singh has said the situation in the northeast region has improved, and the need of the hour is to handle the administration properly.

“The situation in northeast has improved by leaps and bounds. Lots of things have happened, whether it is Assam, whether it is Manipur, whether … Read : Army Chief claims improvement in northeast region.

Militant arrested in Meghalaya

SHILLONG – Troops of the first battalion of the Border Security Force (BSF) arrested a Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) militant from the East Khasi Hills area here on Monday.

Acting on a tip-off, the BSF nabbed Joptom Pohtom Hayoung while he was trying to cross the border.

Hayoung was carrying a reward of Rs. 100,000 … Read more »».

Karnataka Tourism minister says Congress also involved in Karnataka illegal mining

BANGALORE – Retaliating to corruption charges levelled against him, Karnataka’s Tourism Minister, G Janardhana Reddy, has said certain Congress leaders are also involved in illegal mining activities.

Reddy, named the families of Lad, a federal lawmaker, M Y Ghorpade who owned the Sandur Manganese and Iron Ore Company and H G Ramulu, all of whom are … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Karnataka Tourism minister says Congress also involved in Karnataka illegal mining.

Heavy rains predicted in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Heavy rains are expected to hit the national capital in the next 48 hours, the met office warned Monday, a day when no rain was recorded despite cloudy sky for most part of the day.

On Monday, the maximum temperature was a notch below the average at 34.1 degrees Celsius, while the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Heavy rains predicted in Delhi.

Report: Kurdish rebels kill 6 Turkish soldiers in attack in Turkey’s southeast

Report: Kurdish rebels kill 6 Turkish soldiers

ANKARA, Turkey – Turkey’s state-run news agency says Kurdish rebels have killed six Turkish soldiers in a raid on a military outpost in the country’s southeast.
The Anatolia news agency says Tuesday that the overnight attack also left some soldiers wounded at the remote outpost near the Iraqi border and [..] Read the original article: here.

BP controversies stealing thunder from David Cameron’s trip to Washington

BP stealing thunder from Cameron’s US visit

WASHINGTON – British Prime Minister David Cameron says he wants to talk about Afghanistan, Middle East peace prospects and the global economy during his visit to Washington.
Everyone else wants to talk about BP.
Cameron’s first trip to Washington as prime minister begins Tuesday. It is being overshadowed by anger in …. Read the original article  : BP controversies stealing thunder from David Cameron’s trip to Washington.

Senate to question James Clapper on how he’d fix national intelligence as its director

Intelligence director nominee faces a grilling

WASHINGTON – Tough questions and blunt answers are likely when retired Air Force Gen. James T. Clapper goes before the Senate Intelligence Committee, seeking confirmation as the next director of national intelligence.
Clapper is expected to explain how he would streamline the massive flow of information from the intelligence community’s 16 … Read more : Senate to question James Clapper on how he’d fix national intelligence as its director.

Palin’s anti-Ground Zero mosque Tweet draws Liberal flak

NEW YORK – Former Alaska Governor and 2008 Republican vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin is drawing considerable flak from Liberals for her anti-Ground Zero mosque Tweet.

“Ground Zero Mosque supporters: doesn’t it stab you in the heart, as it does ours throughout the heartland? Peaceful Muslims, pls refudiate,” Palin said via Twitter.

According to CBS News, Palin’s remarks …. Source  : Palin’s anti-Ground Zero mosque Tweet draws Liberal flak.

No benefit to India from transit trade agreement with Afghanistan: Pak trade minister

LAHORE – Pakistan has said that India would get any benefit from the transit trade agreement that it recently inked with Afghanistan.

Talking to media persons at the airport here, Federal Minister for Trade Makhdoom Amin Fahim said that Islamabad has signed a deal with Afghanistan under which goods from Afghanistan would be transported to India … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : No benefit to India from transit trade agreement with Afghanistan: Pak trade minister.

How the AP-Univision poll was conducted

How the AP-Univision poll was conducted
The Associated Press-Univision Poll of Hispanic adults was conducted by the National Opinion Research Center (NORC) at the University of Chicago from March 11-June 3. It is based on a nationally representative random sample of 1,521 Hispanic adults. Data were gathered via mail, the Internet and telephone. The majority of …. Read the original article  : here.

Utah woman with double uterus to have two babies who aren’t twins!

MELBOURNE – An Utah woman who has two wombs will give birth to two babies in five months time.

The babies, however, aren’t twins and are due a week apart.

According to the New York Daily News, Angie Cromar was born with a rare condition called didelphys that means she has two uteruses, reported ksl.com.

Angie and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Utah woman with double uterus to have two babies who aren’t twins!.

Taiwan faces Chinese resistance in cross-strait flight negotiations

Taiwan-China flight negotiations hit snag
TAIPEI, Taiwan – Taiwan’s negotiations with China on new cross-strait flights hit a snag after Beijing refused to reopen talks on scheduling and destination arrangements for the island’s airlines, a senior Taiwanese official said Wednesday.

The statement by Deputy Transportation and Communications Minister Yeh Kuang-shih underscores the difficulties President Ma Ying-jeou faces …. Read the original article  : here.

Couture Week starts in New Delhi

NEW DELHI – The Delhi Couture Week has started here with a fashion show featuring designs of renowned couturists.

The weeklong event, that started on Tuesday, will exhibit designs of renowned designers such as Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Manish Malhotra, Gaurav Gupta, Rohit Bal, Rina Dhaka, Raakesh Agarwal, Manav Gangwani, Pallavi Jaikishan, Anamika Khanna, and J. J. Valaya.

The … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Couture Week starts in New Delhi.

Chidambaram says Railway Ministry’s response to Sainthia train crash slow

NEW DELHI – Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Wednesday accused the Railway Ministry of responding slowly to Monday’s train collision at Sainthia station in West Bengal.

Chidambaram said the first relief train after the Sainthia accident reached the site two and a half hours late. The second relief train was late by seven hours.

Chidambaram said … Read more »».

Abbas says he won’t go to direct peace talks without US assurances on Palestinian borders

Abbas: Specific US assurances on borders needed
RAMALLAH, West Bank – Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has told his Fatah movement he wants a more specific U.S. commitment on the borders of a future Palestinian state before agreeing to direct talks with Israel.
Abbas says he received assurances from President Barack Obama, but that they weren’t … Read : Abbas says he won’t go to direct peace talks without US assurances on Palestinian borders.

Brit girl, 10, in soup for using Chaplin song in charity video

LONDON – A young UK girl who made a Charlie Chaplin tribute video to gather funds for dying kids has been asked to remove the lyrics or pay 1,300 pounds for it.

Bethany Hare, 10, performed Chaplin’s song Smile on a film that she paid for from money earned as an extra on ITV1’s soap Emmerdale. … Read more >>.

Opposition to mosques in US on the rise: Observers

WASHINGTON – The American opposition to the building of mosques across the country is on the rise.

According to the Christian Science Monitor (CSM), residents from California to Tennessee are opposed to mosques.

Several proposed Islamic centers, including one near Ground Zero, have touched off a heated nationwide debate that raises questions about the state of religious … Read more : Opposition to mosques in US on the rise: Observers.

Indian rail expert blames poor implementation, political will for frequent mishaps

NEW DELHI – An expert on railways transportation has blamed poor implementation of safety policies and lack of political will for the frequent train mishaps in the country.

I.I.M.S Rana, a former Railway Board Chairman, who also headed the Railway Disaster Management Committee, said in New Delhi on Tuesday, that though the railways is looking to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Women don’t look after their car as well as men: UK study

Sydney, July (ANI): A new UK survey has revealed that women are less likely to wash their cars regularly than men.

The survey found that 56 per cent of women left their car unwashed for six months or longer, compared to 44 per cent of men.

More than half the men surveyed washed their cars at [..] Read the original article: here.

No agreement over transit trade with Afghanistan yet: Pak Commerce Ministry

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Commerce Ministry has rejected media reports regarding the country signing a trade agreement with Afghanistan.

A statement issued by the ministry said that reports regarding the Afghanistan Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement (APTTA) being signed were ‘baseless’ and contrary to the facts.

“Some of these reports are not based on facts and are causing …. Original article  : No agreement over transit trade with Afghanistan yet: Pak Commerce Ministry.

Al-Qaeda linked website ‘Blogetery.com’ shut down for posting terror propaganda

WASHINGTON – BurstNET, the host of al Qaeda-Linked blogging site Blogetery.com that shut down the site, has issued a statement saying that the latter had a lengthy history of breaking the law and it violated the BurstNET Acceptable Use Policy, which prohibits the posting of “terrorist propaganda, racist material, or bomb/weapon instructions.”

“Upon review, BurstNET determined …. Read the original article  : Al-Qaeda linked website ‘Blogetery.com’ shut down for posting terror propaganda.

Bush won’t campaign for ‘ditch dumped’ Republicans

WASHINGTON – Former US President George W. Bush has said that he will not campaign on behalf of Republican candidates before the mid-term elections this fall.

“He’s not interested,” National Republican Congressional Committee Chairman Pete Sessions told reporters today, according to Politico.

Sessions said the former president has maintained from the day he left office … Read more >>.

Friendship boils down to just ???40 a year

LONDON – Friends lend each other nearly 40pounds a year, but one-fourth end up writing off small loans because they are too embarrassed to ask their pals to pay them back, a new survey reveals.

The poll by Moneybookers, an online payment service, saw one in three people saying they had no qualms about lending …. Source article  : Friendship boils down to just ???40 a year.

Was Qureshi’s ‘personal’ condolence to Krishna over rail tragedy result of US rebuff?

ISLAMABAD – In an apparent bid to ease tension between him and his Indian counterpart S M Krishna, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has reportedly sent a ‘personal’ condolence message over the horrific train disaster in West Bengal’s Sainthia earlier this week.

According to reports, Qureshi, in his letter, extended his condolences to the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Was Qureshi’s ‘personal’ condolence to Krishna over rail tragedy result of US rebuff?.

Palin, conservatives accuse media of bias

WASHINGTON – Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin and other conservatives are pointing to a “BOMBSHELL!” story in the Daily Caller as evidence of media bias.

The story centers on a former listserv called JournoList. It documents how the members of the listserv – many of them journalists – complained about ABC News’ treatment of then-candidate Barack …. Source  : Palin, conservatives accuse media of bias.

Toronto Burlesque Festival to showcase ‘Naked Girls Reading’

TORONTO – Toronto Burlesque Festival has come up with an item called as “Naked Girls Reading”, which will literally feature nude women reading books.

The five-day, third-annual festival will be taking place at the Gladstone Hotel on July 21, and the “Naked Girls Reading” is the newest event in the burlesque revival.

The idea for the show …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Toronto Burlesque Festival to showcase ‘Naked Girls Reading’.

Musharraf’s confidants see no ‘political’ role for him in Pakistan in future

LAHORE – Former Pakistan President General Pervez Musharraf might have vowed to return to the country’s political stage riding on his newly floated political party, however, his former colleagues, whom Musharraf trusted to help him in his motive, are not very enthusiastic about the general’s future.

Musharraf recently held meetings with several of his former …. Source  : Musharraf’s confidants see no ‘political’ role for him in Pakistan in future.

UN court orders retrial for former Kosovo prime minister acquitted of war crimes

UN court orders retrial for former Kosovo PM

THE HAGUE, Netherlands – The Yugoslav war crimes tribunal has ordered a retrial for former Kosovo prime minister Ramush Haradinaj, two years after he was acquitted of murder, rape and torture charges.
Tribunal President Patrick Robinson says the original trial of Haradinaj and two other former commanders in the …. Source  : UN court orders retrial for former Kosovo prime minister acquitted of war crimes.

Ex-Romanian dictator Nicolae Ceausescu and wife Elena exhumed to determine corpses’ identities

Ex-Romanian dictator Ceausescu and wife exhumed

BUCHAREST, Romania – Forensic scientists have exhumed what are believed to be the bodies of late Romanian dictator Nicolae Ceausescu and his wife Elena at the request of the couple’s survivors.
A team of pathologists and cemetery officials Wednesday hoisted the wooden casket of Ceausescu and his wife Elena out of …. Original article  : Ex-Romanian dictator Nicolae Ceausescu and wife Elena exhumed to determine corpses’ identities.

Reckitt Benckiser makes 2.54 bln pounds ($3.9 bln) bid for SSL International, maker of Durex

Durex maker accepts $3.9B bid by Reckitt Benckiser

LONDON – SSL International PLC, maker of Durex condoms and Scholl foot care products, said Wednesday that its board is recommending a 2.54 billion pounds ($3.9 billion) takeover offer from Reckitt Benckiser PLC, the owner of consumer brands like Vanish, Lysol and Clearasil.
Reckitt Benckiser said its offer of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Reckitt Benckiser makes 2.54 bln pounds ($3.9 bln) bid for SSL International, maker of Durex.

Sweeping financial overhaul about to become law; victory for Obama

Obama poised to sign sweeping financial overhaul
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is set to sign a sweeping overhaul of financial regulations Wednesday, nearly two years after Wall Street’s failures knocked the economy into the worst recession since the Great Depression.
The law assembles a powerful council of regulators to be on the lookout for …. Original article  : Sweeping financial overhaul about to become law; victory for Obama.

US will resume cooperation with Indonesia’s special forces accused of human rights abuses

US to resume ties to Indonesia’s special forces
JAKARTA, Indonesia – The United States announced Thursday it will resume cooperation with Indonesia’s special forces after ties were severed more than a decade ago over human rights abuses allegedly committed by the commando unit.
U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates made the announcement after meeting with Indonesia’s … Read : US will resume cooperation with Indonesia’s special forces accused of human rights abuses.

Kiwi museum thawing 100-year-old whisky

Cantebury (South Island, New Zealand),J – A New Zealand museum is slowly thawing a crate of Scotch whisky that was retrieved in a frozen state from Antarctic ice after more than a century.

Four of the crates were left in the ice, but one labelled Mackinlay’s whisky was brought to the Canterbury Museum in Christchurch on …. Read the original article  : here.

In UK, one baby in four born to migrants

LONDON – One bay in four born in the United Kingdom is born of migrant mothers.

An official breakdown found that 24.7 per cent of children born last year have mothers who were born abroad.

Their numbers have doubled since the late 1990s, The Guardian reports.

The figures produced fresh warnings to ministers that immigration rates must be …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : In UK, one baby in four born to migrants.

Will be happy if someone can do my job better: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Replying to continued criticism of his “anti-Maoist policy” by Congress general secretary Digvijay Singh, Home Minister P. Chidambaram has said he will be the “happiest person if someone can do the job better”.

“He (Digvijay Singh) is the general secretary of the party. He wrote an article in your paper. I am doing … Read : Will be happy if someone can do my job better: Chidambaram.

Four students killed in Assam police firing

BARPETA – At least four students were killed and over a dozen others injured, when the police opened fire on rampaging protestors attempting to stop updating of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam’s Barpeta town on Wednesday.

The protestors consisting of All … Read more »»».

China tests first fourth generation nuclear reactor successfully

BEIJING – China has succeeded in testing its first experimental fast reactor using the mostly homegrown fourth generation nuclear technology. It has become the eighth country in the world to successfully master such technology.

“This is a significant step in China’s nuclear program,” … Read more »»».

‘Princess Diana was murdered’

LONDON – A leading barrister, who played a key role in the inquest into Princess Diana’s death, has insisted that she was murdered, adding that many questions over the Paris crash remain unanswered.

Michael Mansfield QC said that Diana had a …. Source article  : ‘Princess Diana was murdered’.

Queen’s guards to wear Stella McCartney’s synthetic bearskin hats?

LONDON – The Queen’s Guards at Buckingham Palace may soon be wearing designer Stella McCartney’s faux-fur version of the real bearskin hats, if the Ministry of Defence in UK agrees with it.

The Army’s Guards regiments have for almost two centuries been fitted out …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Queen’s guards to wear Stella McCartney’s synthetic bearskin hats?.

Now, Google worth one billion page views a day

LONDON – Now, Goolge is worth one billion page views a day as the new image searches can show upto 1,000 images per page.

“This represents the largest image search engine by far,” BBC quoted Marissa Mayer, vice president of search, as saying.

The search giant revealed …. Source article  : Now, Google worth one billion page views a day.

Outrage forces UK shopping center to review decision to install ’squat loos’ for Asians

LONDON – A British shopping centre’s decision to install “squat toilets” for Asian customers has come under intense criticism by outraged council chiefs.

According to reports, two of the 200-pound loos, which users crouch over rather than sit on, were put in alongside traditional loos in a bid to raise cultural awareness.

The hole-in-the-ground toilets, sometimes known … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Outrage forces UK shopping center to review decision to install ’squat loos’ for Asians.

Agriculture Dept. tries to move past uproar over race; ousted employee considers new job

Agriculture Dept. tries to move past race uproar
WASHINGTON – The White House apologized to Shirley Sherrod. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack offered her a new job. But after a whirlwind week, Sherrod says she needs to think about it.
It has been an emotional roller coaster ride for Sherrod, who until this week …. Original article  : Agriculture Dept. tries to move past uproar over race; ousted employee considers new job.

Taliban militants behead six Afghan policemen in new act of barbarism

KABUL – Taliban militants beheaded six Afghan police officers during an assault on government buildings in Baghlan province, the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) said.

The attack took place in Dahanah-ye Ghori, where the Taliban influence has grown significantly in the past two years.

The Taliban favour decapitation as a punishment for those who work …. Read the original article  : Taliban militants behead six Afghan policemen in new act of barbarism.

Public protest in Manipur over abduction of rural student

IMPHAL – Scores of residents of Imphal and the nearby villages staged a sit-in demonstration here on Wednesday to protest against certain unidentified miscreants abducting Yumnam Manaoba, an innocent rural student for monetary and other gains.

Manaoba was abducted from his home on July 19.

The abductors are reported to be militants of some terror outfit, who …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Public protest in Manipur over abduction of rural student.

Pak now realises threat posed by country based terror syndicate: Clinton

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has said that Pakistan has now realised that a terror syndicate exists in the country, which threatens America as well.

In an interview with a private television channel, Clinton, who visited Islamabad earlier this week, said that she could sense an emergency in the Pakistan establishment concerning … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pak now realises threat posed by country based terror syndicate: Clinton.

Chapman was disappointed England revoked her citizenship: Lawyer

WASHINGTON – Russian Spy Anna Chapman’s lawyer has revealed that she was disappointed when her UK citizenship was revoked.

“She’s particularly upset” at the rejection by the United Kingdom, Fox News quoted Baum as saying.

“It was disappointing to learn she can’t go back,” he added.

Baum said he was in constant touch with Chapman over e-mail as … Read more »»».

Congress asks J-K Govt. to crack down corruption, non-functioning bureaucracy

NEW DELHI – The Congress Committee on Kashmir has asked the Jammu and Kashmir Government to crack down on corruption and non-functioning of a part of the bureaucracy.

The Committee, which met here on Wednesday under the leadership of Congress President Sonia Gandhi, reviewed the performance of the State’s coalition Government, of which the party is … Read more : Congress asks J-K Govt. to crack down corruption, non-functioning bureaucracy.

Sohrabuddin fake encounter case: CBI summons Gujarat’s Home Minister

GANDHINAGAR – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday issued summons to Gujarat Home Minister Amit Shah for questioning in the Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case.

Shah, a key aide of Gujarat Chief Minister Narender Modi has been asked to appear before the CBI’s office in Gandhinagar by 1 p.m. today.

Three IPS officers from …. Source  : Sohrabuddin fake encounter case: CBI summons Gujarat’s Home Minister.

Pakistani-American woman kills her austistic kids

WASHINGTON – A Pakistani-American woman, Saiqa Akhter, living in Texas, has killed her two kids because they were austistic.

According to Fox News, police said 30-year-old Akhter admitted to strangling her five-year-old son Zain and two-year-old daughter Faraal as they were both autistic, and she wanted normal children.

Police informed that after committing the crime, she called … Read more : Pakistani-American woman kills her austistic kids.

Japanese cars voted most reliable by UK magazine

LONDON – Japanese cars have taken eight of the first ten places in a magazine’s manufacturer reliability table.

Daihatsu, with a score of 86.8 per cent was top of the table, with Honda second, Toyota third and Mazda fourth. Land Rover was last on 67.5 percent.

The survey, involving more than 64,000 members and more than 66,000 … Read more »».

Two militants killed in Kupwara gun battle

KUPWARA – At least two militants were killed in a gun battle with secuirty forces in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara District on Wednesday night.

Acting on a tip off, security forces cordoned off the Rajwar forest area in Handwara, around 90 kilometers from Kupwara District, where the militants were reported to be hiding.

The militants opened fire …. Source article  : Two militants killed in Kupwara gun battle.

Malaysia ‘won’t ban Man U’s ‘Satan’ shirts’

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s Islamic authorities have said they have no plans to issue an edict banning Manchester United shirts in the country, despite recent tabloid reports that Muslims have been urged not to wear the shirts because the club emblem features a devil.

Harussani Zakaria, a …. Read the original article  : here.

NHRC seeks Home Secretary’s reply on alleged CRPF killings in Kashmir

NEW DELHI – The National Human Rights Commission has forwarded a complaint to UNion Home Secretary, G.K. Pillai, drawing his attention to recent reports of alleged extra-judicial killings by the CRPF.

The commission said it had received a complaint from Sushobha Barve of the Centre for Dialogue … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NHRC seeks Home Secretary’s reply on alleged CRPF killings in Kashmir.

Obama is a huge fan of ‘Mad Men’

LONDON – U.S. president Barack Obama is a huge fan of hit drama ‘Mad Men’ and has sent a letter to the cast and crew wishing them luck for the new season of the show.

Show star Jon Hamm admitted that he’s thrilled to be a part of Obama’s favourite TV pleasure.

The President’s letter now …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Billionaire Russian oligarch’s ???100m divorce ‘costliest in British history’

LONDON – Berezovsky, the Russian oligarch who lives in Britain, is expected to pay his wife Galina Besharova as much as 100 million pounds after she won a divorce battle from the billionaire.

The ‘quickie’ may go down as one of the costliest in British legal history.

Neither side attended the 45- second hearing at the High … Read more »».

‘Lazy Friday’, the latest office perk to boost productivity Down Under

MELBOURNE – Another workplace trend that has hit Sydney is Lazy Fridays, where workers are leaving office as early as 3 pm to enjoy a drink or two at the nearest watering hole.

Sydney’s business community has embraced the Lazy Fridays movement, with offices across the city calling it quits mid-arvo.

For S2i Communications founder Wayne …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Bootylicious’ Beyonce, Kim Kardashian trigger a trend for padded panties

MELBOURNE – Stars like Beyonce and Kim Kardashian with their heavy derrieres have sparked a trend for undergarments that amplify women’s rear ends.

Booty Pop is a new brand of underwear that is selling like hot pancakes by giving that much-required boost to women’s posterior.

For ages, women have wriggled into girdles and other slimmers to minimize … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Bootylicious’ Beyonce, Kim Kardashian trigger a trend for padded panties.

Parents lose 6 months’ sleep in first 2yrs after baby’s birth

London, July 23 (ANI): Babies cost parents six months’ sleep in the first two years after their birth.

On average parents get just four uninterrupted hours a night – an hour less than the minimum they need to be able to function and avoid rows and mood swings.

In the poll, commissioned by mattress firm Silentnight, out …. Original source  : Parents lose 6 months’ sleep in first 2yrs after baby’s birth.

US man wearing Darth Vader mask robs Long Island bank

New York, July 23 (ANI): A man wearing a Darth Vader mask and cape is said to have robbed a Chase bank branch on Long Island, New York.

According to the police, the man entered a branch in Setauket and demanded money and used a semiautomatic gun to threaten the teller, myfoxny.com reported.

After the teller gave … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US man wearing Darth Vader mask robs Long Island bank.

Brit firm launches world’s strongest beer at $762 a bottle

New York, July 23 (ANI): A British firm has launched a 110 proof beer, which is the world’s strongest, selling it at 762 dollars per bottle.

The blond Belgian ale, named The End of History, is an astonishing 55 percent alcohol by volume (ABV) and is presented in a case made from stuffed animals, including stoats … Read more >>.

World’s fastest texter types supercalifragilisticexpialidocious in 13sec!

Melbourne, July 23 (ANI): The battle of the thumbs is set to begin again – Aussie sharp-texters are ready to punch it out for the top spot at the New South Wales texting championships.

Jian Li, 18, is the woman to beat – the teen holds the title of Australia’s Fastest Texter.

When The Daily Telegraph …. Read the original article  : World’s fastest texter types supercalifragilisticexpialidocious in 13sec!.

Calling boss ‘mum’ or ‘dad’ among most embarrassing work mishap: UK survey

London, July 23 (ANI): Sleeping in a corporate meeting is no more at the top of the list of most embarrassing mishaps at work – calling your boss ‘mum’ or ‘dad’ is.

Women with their skirts stuck in their pants and men calling the boss “mum” or “dad” are among the most embarrassing social mishaps … Read more »».

Now, ‘halal’ make-up for conservative Muslims in UK

London, July 23 (ANI): A Muslim woman has launched Britain’s first ‘halal makeup’.

The range contains plant extracts and minerals instead of pig fat and alcohol, and is made with strict regards for Islamic laws.

“I wasn’t comfortable praying with make-up on not knowing what was in there. When I researched what was in make-up I found …. Original article  : Now, ‘halal’ make-up for conservative Muslims in UK.

Anna Chapman now a topless spy action figure

London, July 23 (ANI): Anna Chapman, the sexy Russian spy has now been immortalised.

According to The Daily Star, Chapman has been made into a topless action figure armed with a gun.

The redhead recently lost her UK citizenship and was returned to Russia after being exposed in the recent US spy scandal.

Now the topless [..] Read the original article: here.

Experts hail extension to Pakistan army chief

ISLAMABAD – Strategic experts in Pakistan have hailed the three-year extension granted to army chief General Ashfaq Kayani, calling it a wise decision.

Kayani got the extension after Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said Thursday that rules were bent for the move.
Defence analysts said Kayani, who took charge of the Pakistan Army in 2007, was … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Experts hail extension to Pakistan army chief.

Failed Times Square bomber seen hugging TTP chief Hakeemullah in latest video

Washington, July 23 (ANI): Confessed Times Square bomber Faisal Shahzad had met the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) chief Hakimullah Mehsud, a new video has revealed.

The latest video has come just days after a ‘martyrdom’ footage showed Shahzad declaring a war against the US.

The new footage shows Shahzad and Hakimullah shaking hands and hugging each other ’sometime’ … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Failed Times Square bomber seen hugging TTP chief Hakeemullah in latest video.

Sohrabuddin case: Gujarat’s Home Minister skips appointment with CBI

Ahmedabad, July 23 (ANI): Gujarat Home Minister Amit Shah failed to keep his date with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday in connection with the 2005 Sohrabuddin fake encounter case.

Shah’s lawyer asked the CBI for more time and more details of what sort of questions the minister is likely to face.

According to … Read : Sohrabuddin case: Gujarat’s Home Minister skips appointment with CBI.

Curfew imposed in Bandipora, Kupwara districts

Srinagar, July 23 (ANI): Curfew was clamped in Jammu and Kashmir’s Bandipora and Kupwara districts following a separatist call to hold demonstrations in protest against the killing of several youth.

The hardline Hurriyat group, headed by Syed Ali Geelani, has called for a march to the hanqah-i-Moula mosque area in the old city and for … Read more »».

Authorities to protect coral reef in Tamil Nadu’s Gulf of Mannar

Ramanathapuram (Tamil Nadu), July 23 (ANI): Authorities at the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park (GMMNP) in the Indian Ocean, situated on the Tamil Nadu Coast, will set up sea buoys to demarcate the national park, and protect coral reefs and marine life.

GMMNP authorities are contributing to that by floating fluorescent buoys that are …. Original article  : Authorities to protect coral reef in Tamil Nadu’s Gulf of Mannar.

Britain too broke to defend itself against every potential future threat

London, July 23 (ANI): Britain, which is considered as one of the world’s most wealthy and powerful countries, faces the challenge of insufficient funds to protect itself against all potential threats.

“We don’t have the money as a country to protect ourselves against every potential future threat, we just don’t have it. The country is in … Read : Britain too broke to defend itself against every potential future threat.

Indian films to be showcased at Melbourne International Film Festival

New Delhi, July 23 (ANI): Indian filmmaking will be showcased at the 2010 Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) starting July 22.

An Australian High Commission release said that the MIFF is throwing the spotlight on Indian film with a showcase called ‘Not Quite Bollywood’ co-presented by the Australia India Institute.

The festival … Read more : Indian films to be showcased at Melbourne International Film Festival.

China mulls revising Criminal Law to limit capital punishment

BEIJING – China is mulling revising its Criminal Law to limit the number of crimes subject to the death penalty, as part of major efforts to further reduce the use of capital punishment.

“In line with international practice, having so many crimes that could receive a maximum …. Read the original article  : here.

China to scrutinize officials”love lives’ to meet “morality standards”

BEIJING – China has introduced new rules for 96 local government and Communist Party of China (CPC) officials in Shuyang county in Jiangsu province, wherein their lives will be scrutinized to meet “morality standards”.

According to China Daily, the local government will scrutinize officials’ relations with their parents, …. Original source  : China to scrutinize officials’ ‘love lives’ to meet “morality standards”.

1984 anti-Sikh riots: CBI seeks dismissal of case against Tytler

NEW DELHI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Saturday told a Karkardooma court that there was no sufficient evidence against Congress leader Jagdish Tytler in connection with the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

Pleading for dismissal of a petition filed by the family of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 1984 anti-Sikh riots: CBI seeks dismissal of case against Tytler.

Mig-27 crashes in West Bengal

JALPAIGURI – A Mig-27 fighter aircraft crashed in Mainaguri in West Bengal’s Jalpaiguri District on Saturday morning.

The incident took place near the Hashimara air base at around 10 : 30 a.m. today.

The pilot of the airport is, however, reported to be safe.

Earlier … Read more >>>.

Boy born with six legs in Karachi

ISLAMABAD – A woman has given birth to a baby boy with six legs in Karachi.

The boy was born at a maternity home near Star Gate and is admitted to the National Institute of Child Health (NICH) for a surgery to be performed on his …. Read the original article  : Boy born with six legs in Karachi.

Obama’s daughters to do baby-sitting

LONDON – President Barack Obama has revealed that his daughters Malia and Sasha may soon be looking for babysitting jobs to supplement their allowances.

Obama said that he was also teaching his daughters Malia, 12, and Sasha, 9, about savings, interest and money management.

“What I’m doing now with Malia and Sasha is they’re … Original source on Gaea Times at : Obama’s daughters to do baby-sitting.

Enid Blyton’s Famous Five’s ‘jolly japes’, ‘dirty tinkers’ soon to be history

LONDON – It’s time to bid a farewell to the old Enid Blyton Famous Five and usher in the modern ones.

Starting next month, Enid Blyton’s language is being dragged out of the 1940s by her publisher in an attempt to give her books greater appeal for today’s children.

Phrases …. Read the original article  : Enid Blyton’s Famous Five’s ‘jolly japes’, ‘dirty tinkers’ soon to be history.

US drone attacks in Pak tripled under Obama administration: Report

LAHORE – A research carried out by the BBC Urdu service has found that missile attacks by US drones in Pakistan’s Tribal Areas have tripled under the Obama administration.

Compared to 25 drone strikes between January 2008 and January 2009, there were at least 87 such attacks between …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Historical fictions throw insight into our lives: Tharoor

NEW DELHI – History makes for compelling books because they offer insights into our lives, says MP and writer Shashi Tharoor, who would love to write a historical fiction himself in future.

“Historical fictions are very important because they depict a different time period and throw fresh insight into our lives. They show how our lives …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Curfew re-imposed in Kashmir towns

SRINAGAR – Hundreds of protesters defied security restrictions to march through the streets in north Kashmir’s Palhallan town even as authorities reimposed curfew in Kupwara and Pulwama towns Saturday morning after violence a day earlier.

A senior police officer said curfew had to be reimposed in the frontier north Kashmir’s Kupwara and south Kashmir’s Pulwama towns … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Curfew re-imposed in Kashmir towns.

BP oil spill: Emergency alarms were disabled to avoid waking up people at night

LONDON – The testimony of an electronics technician Michael Williams who worked for Transocean, the Geneva-based company that owned the rig, that emergency alarms on board the Deepwater Horizon were disabled weeks before it …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Demonstrators demand release of abducted Manipuri student

IMPHAL – Scores of students and social activists staged a mass protest here on Friday seeking immediate intervention of the State authorities for the release of abducted student Yumnam Manaoba.

Manaoba, a student of Biramangol College, was kidnapped from his home on July …. Read the original article  : Demonstrators demand release of abducted Manipuri student.

Jharkhand police recover explosives from a Maoist bunker

RANCHI – The Jharkhand police seized a large cache of explosives and literature from a suspected Maoist bunker during a combing operation in a desolate stretch of forested land in the Bundu area near Ranchi.

The police said the seized cache comprises 500 booster explosive gels, … Read more : Jharkhand police recover explosives from a Maoist bunker.

Punjab police recover arms from a canal

LUDHIANA – The police recovered 21 magazines of AK-47 and ample quantity of bullets from a canal near Gurudwara Rara Sahib in Punjab’s Ludhiana city.

Jaswant Singh, an eyewitness, while talking to the media recalled how these were discovered.

“I was searching for metal items like iron when the children were hurt … Original article on : Punjab police recover arms from a canal.

Andhra Pradesh student alleges sexual assault by school principal

RANGA REDDY – A girl studying in eleventh standard of the prestigious Parkwood International School at Vikarabad in Andhra Pradesh’s Ranga Reddy District has levelled allegations of rape and molestation against the school’s principal Mohammad Salahuddin Ayub.

The victimised girl while talking to the media on Friday … Read more : Andhra Pradesh student alleges sexual assault by school principal.

Frank Frazetta’s $1.5 Million Deal

PHILADELPHIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Frank Frazetta has sold his painting for an eye popping $1.5 Million two months after his death. The managers of the iconic artist have confirmed that the painting by Frank Frazetta of “Conan – The Destroyer” has been bought by a private collector for the amount that is the highest ever paid …. Source  : Frank Frazetta’s $1.5 Million Deal.

West Bengal police arrest four suspected Maoists

WEST MIDNAPORE – The police and the paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel arrested four suspected Maoists in a joint operation from Ranja forest in Salboni in West Bengal’s West Midnapore District.

West Midnapore Superintendent of Police (SP) Manoj Verma said the … Original article on : West Bengal police arrest four suspected Maoists.

Pak needs to do much more against Haqqani network for Afghan peace: Holbrooke

LONDON – US Special Envoy for Pakistan and Afghanistan, Richard Holbrooke, has said that while Islamabad is cooperating with the US-backed Afghan peace efforts, it was not to the extent sought by Washington.

Holbrooke did highlight several areas of progress, including a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pak needs to do much more against Haqqani network for Afghan peace: Holbrooke.

Six militants surrender in Imphal

IMPHAL – Six hardcore militants belonging to three banned militant outfits, surrendered before the top brass of the state police here on Friday.

The ultras gave up their arms and ammunition in the presence of Joykumar Singh, Director General of Police (DGP), Manipur and other senior officers of paramilitary …. Original source  : Six militants surrender in Imphal.

80 children fall sick after midday meal in Pune

PUNE – Around 80 children fell sick on Friday after consumption of unhygienic midday meal at a government school in Pune.

According to authorities insects and rusted iron participles were found in the meal.

“Insects, flies, broken iron particles and other unhygienic and poisonous things …. Original source  : 80 children fall sick after midday meal in Pune.

‘PML-N not consulted on Kayani’s extension’

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) spokesman Ahsan Iqbal has said his party was not taken into confidence by the government on giving a three-year extension to Army Chief General Ashfaq Kayani.

Kayani was originally due to retire on November 28, but will now remain in office until 2013.

The extension is only the second such incident …. Original source  : ‘PML-N not consulted on Kayani’s extension’.

UN ship detained by India reaches Karachi

Rawalpindi, July 25(ANI): United Nations’ cargo vessel “MV Aegean Glory”, which was earlier detained by Indian authorities at the Kolkata port, has reached Karachi dockyard.

The Indian Navy, the Customs and the police at Kolkata’s Diamond Harbour had detained the Liberian-registered ship on June 25 for not having relevant documents for military hardware and explosives onboard.

MV … Read more >>>.

Sohrabuddin case: Shah behind Sabarmati bars, in 14-day judicial custody

Gandhinagar, July 25 (ANI): Former Gujarat Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday sent into 14 days judicial custody in connection with the Sohrabuddin fake encounter case after the Central Bureau of Investigation presented him before Judge A.Y.Dave.

Shah will remain in the Sabarmati Central Jail for fourteen days, but will apply for bail.

The … Read more : Sohrabuddin case: Shah behind Sabarmati bars, in 14-day judicial custody.

Taliban captures two American soldiers in Afghanistan

New York, July 25 (ANI): Taliban militants have captured two American soldiers while they were reportedly driving a civilian vehicle in the dangerous region of Logar Province in Kabul on Friday.

“The two service members departed their compound in Kabul City in a vehicle on Friday afternoon and did not return,” a NATO statement said.

According to …. Read the original article  : here.

Ex lover opens up about crazy 6 weeks of passion with ’spy’ Chapman

London, July 25 (ANI): ‘Red spy’ Anna Chapman had a fling with a British artist before she ditched him for her future husband Alex.

Anna had a passionate affair with Marcus Read, but broke up with him after meeting Alex Chapman while she and Marcus were on a night out drinking together.

A year later, Anna – …. Original source  : Ex lover opens up about crazy 6 weeks of passion with ’spy’ Chapman.

Taliban spokeman: 1 missing US service member dead, other captured by insurgents

Taliban: 1 missing US trooper dead, other captured

KABUL, Afghanistan – The Taliban say they have killed one of the two U.S. service members who went missing two days ago and have taken the other prisoner.
Spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid told The Associated Press on Sunday that the two wandered into an insurgent-controlled area Friday. Taliban fighters opened [..] Read the original article: here.

Meet the latest breed of netrepreneurs – stay-at-home mums

Melbourne, July 25 (ANI): Home staying mums are fast emerging as the new breed of netrepreneurs. Be it simple solutions to questions such as how to get a toddler to sleep or strapping babies into prams, mummy bloggers have never been more powerful as they mint good money from the comfort of the couch.

Networking mums …. Source  : Meet the latest breed of netrepreneurs – stay-at-home mums.

Teen sailor Jessica Watson’s dad feared he might not see her again

Melbourne, July 25 (ANI): Roger Watson says he was afraid of losing his daughter Jessica before the teen Aussie sailor made her record-breaking trip around the world.

Watson, even as he acknowledged Jessica’s ability as a sailor, was unwilling to leave anything to chance in the months leading up to her departure at the end …. Original source  : Teen sailor Jessica Watson’s dad feared he might not see her again.

Oz couple not willing to stop after having 9 kids in 9 years

Melbourne, July 25 (ANI): An Australian couple that has had 9 children in the past 9 years is not willing to stop yet.rudy Hill, from Penrith in Sydney’s West, has given birth to nine babies since 2000.

The latest sibling, Nox was born just months ago.

But interestingly Trudy hasn’t ruled out the chances of having … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Oz couple not willing to stop after having 9 kids in 9 years.

Malaysian bachelors using matchmaking agencies to find foreign brides

Kuala Lumpur, July 25 (ANI): Work pressure seems to be taking its toll on single Malaysian men – many are trying to find their other half with the help of matchmaking agencies.

Many businessmen and professionals like engineers and company managers are opting for “instant” brides from Vietnam, Indonesia or China and are willing to shell … Original source on Gaea Times at : Malaysian bachelors using matchmaking agencies to find foreign brides.

Oz Govt. to crack down on foreign students’ intake

London, July 25 (ANI): Australian opposition leader Tony Abbott’s announcement that the coalition government would keep ’skilled migration’ numbers up, but would crack down on ‘dubious educational and family-reunion applicants’, is likely to affect Indian students aspiring to complete their education in the country.

“I am all in favour of Australia selling education but what …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Oz Govt. to crack down on foreign students’ intake.

M and S selling ‘plus-size’ clothing for kids as young as 3

London, July 25 (ANI): In an attempt to dress a new generation with bulging waistlines, retailer Marks and Spencer has begun selling ‘plus-size’ clothing to children as young as three.

The retailer said it began a trial of the “plus fit” range last week, in an attempt to meet consumer demand.

Meanwhile the health campaigners said … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : M and S selling ‘plus-size’ clothing for kids as young as 3.

Hindus critical of Romanian President’s remarks about Roma

Nevada (US), July 25 (ANI): Although social inclusion of Roma was urgently needed all over Europe, but Romania just should not bail herself out of responsibility of Roma integration at home, acclaimed Hindu statesman Rajan Zed stated in Nevada (USA) today.

Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, was reacting to Romanian President Traian …. Original source  : Hindus critical of Romanian President’s remarks about Roma.

Sohrabuddin case: CBI arrests Amit Shah

Gandhinagar, July 25 (ANI): Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) officials on Sunday arrested former Gujarat Home Minister Amit Shah in connection with the Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case.

Shah was arrested at the state CBI headquarters here before being whisked away to the residence of CBI court judge A.V Dave, where the investigating agency will seek … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sohrabuddin case: CBI arrests Amit Shah.

Re-strategize to keep youth in spirituality fold, Zed suggests world religions

Nevada (US), July 25 (ANI): Religions should rethink their strategies to keep coming generations in spirituality and religion fold, religious statesman Rajan Zed stated in Nevada (USA) today.

If religious leaders and organizations and parents did not attend to this challenge more effectively, in this consumerist society, we could lose a large chunk of our bored … Read : Re-strategize to keep youth in spirituality fold, Zed suggests world religions.

‘Decriminalising prostitution would lead to fewer murders’

London, July 25 (ANI): An Aussie expert on prostitution says the decriminalisation of the sex industry would lead to fewer murders.

Prof Basil Donovan, the head of the Sexual Health Department at the University of New South Wales, has witnessed the effect of legalising sex work – the Australian state made prostitution legal about a decade … Original article on : ‘Decriminalising prostitution would lead to fewer murders’.

Pak needs to do much more against Haqqani network for Afghan peace: Mullen

ISLAMABAD – US Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Admiral Mike Mullen has praised Pakistan for moving against militants, but called for more action against the Haqqani network.

Admiral Mullen called the Haqqani group as “the most lethal network” faced by the US-led international force in Afghanistan.

Addressing the media at the US embassy in Islamabad, he said …. Source article  : Pak needs to do much more against Haqqani network for Afghan peace: Mullen.

US asks Patterson to stay on as envoy in Pak

Islamabad, July 25(ANI): The United States has decided to retain its Ambassador to Pakistan Anne Patterson for an unspecific period.

Patterson, who has been in the post since May 2007, got an extension following Washington’s decision to drop a proposal to replace her with US Ambassador to Indonesia Cameron Hume.

According to reports, Patterson could stay …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US asks Patterson to stay on as envoy in Pak.

Shell out $30K to attend Obama’s Chicago birthday bash

New York, July 25 (ANI): Wish to attend Barack Obama’s birthday bash in Chicago? Just shell out 30,000dollars and you can party with the US President.

Real-estate mogul Neil Bluhm is planning to throw a private party for Obama, who turns 49 on Aug. 4, at his home.

All those attending the celebrations will be … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Shell out $30K to attend Obama’s Chicago birthday bash.

Automobile buffs visit International auto show in Hyderabad

HYDERABAD – Hundreds of enthusiasts of automobiles made their presence here to get a sneak peek at sleek and classy cars during the second edition of the Hyderabad International Auto Show 2010.

The ‘curtains-up’ to this four-day event was witnessed on July 22 at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre.

Apart from two and four wheelers, a …. Read the original article  : here.