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.

India, Pakistan asked to add cruise missiles to Lahore MoU

TORONTO – A Canadian-led panel of retired civilian and military officials from India and Pakistan has called upon the two countries to update the Lahore memorandum of understanding on easing tensions between them.

Called the Ottawa Dialogue and led by University of Ottawa professor Peter Jones, the initiative is part of track-II diplomacy to defuse problems [..] Read the original article: here.

Malaysian beaches fast becoming favourite haunts for sexual trysts

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian anti-vice volunteers catch nearly 10 nude couples daily along the Tok Jembal and Teluk Ketapang beaches, which are fast becoming favourite haunts for sexual trysts.

Many of those coming to these beaches are reportedly students from institutes of higher learning.

A volunteer, on the condition of anonymity, said most couples were caught “doing …. Source article  : Malaysian beaches fast becoming favourite haunts for sexual trysts.

Scottish porridge bowl weighing 690 kilograms smashes world record

CUPAR – A bowl of porridge made in Scotland has smashed the world record for being the largest ever made, weighing 690 kilograms.

The porridge, enough to feed 2000 people, was made at the annual Highland Games in Cupar, and beat the previous record of 171 kilograms, set in Manchester last year.

Guinness World Record adjudicator … Original source on Gaea Times at : Scottish porridge bowl weighing 690 kilograms smashes world record.

Brits always ready to haggle for best holiday deals

LONDON – When it comes to planning a holiday, Britons are always ready to haggle to get the best deal, revealed a study.

A survey by travel and entertainment company Travelzoo found that Brits are keen to haggle while on holiday but are less inclined than other Europeans to brag about bagging a bargain.

UK holidaymakers are …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brits always ready to haggle for best holiday deals.

Curfew imposed in Anantnag

Srinagar July 5: (ANI) Curfew was imposed in Ananatnag town of Jammu and Kashmir, following the announcement of a protest march by the separatist group, Hurriyat Conference (Geelani).

People of the town have been facing many problems following the imposing of curfew.

“The Hurriyat Conference gave a call for going to Islamabad (Anantnag), ‘Islamabad chalo!’ … Original article on : Curfew imposed in Anantnag.

Now, a jazz version of geese to wow music lovers

LONDON – Two composers are trying to bring the mesmerising sounds of nature closer to city dwellers by recording the sounds of wild geese in a remote corner of Scotland. They plan to take the music to a wider audience through the medium of jazz.

The music, inspired by the sound of tens of thousands of …. Original article  : Now, a jazz version of geese to wow music lovers.

Delhi shines, but red light area in darkness (IANS Special)

NEW DELHI – An old Bollywood song, “Parde mein rehne do, parda na uthao” rings the air as you walk past the brothels of G.B. Road. The veil of neglect and apathy is yet to be lifted in the city’s oldest red light area even as work is on to beautify Delhi ahead of the … Read more »»».

Office gossip can get ’slimy weasels’ the sack

MELBOURNE – Gossiping and chitchatting in the office can make you lose your job, according to one of Wall Street’s most feared traders.

Billionaire Ray Dalio, has said that employees who gossip about co-workers will be fired for behaving like ’slimy weasels.’

Founder of Bridgewater Associates, Dalio’s list of rules for his one thousand employees was leaked [..] Read the original article: here.

Daughter’s flute play wakes dad from coma

LONDON – A father who was badly injured after he was thrown off his motorbike came out of a coma, thanks to his daughter’s flute playing.

Mark Bell failed to recover after suffering a broken back, bleeding in the brain, punctured lung and 12 broken ribs.

Doctors insisted his wife Fleur to talk to him in a [..] Read the original article: here.

Cougar to tell-all about Prince Harry’s ‘long, lovely kiss’

LONDON – A blonde “cougar” is set to spill the beans about a passionate kiss with Prince Harry, on a reality TV show.

Catherine Davies kissed the royal after they spent a night drinking in London in 2006.

She was forced to deny rumours that they went any further and never revealed what Harry, then 21, said … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Cougar to tell-all about Prince Harry’s ‘long, lovely kiss’.

Outrage over Brit Islamist leader’s call on Oz Muslims to ’shun haram democracy’

SYDNEY – Australian Protectionist Party (APP) activists have protested against British Hizb ut-Tahrir (HT) leader Burhan Hanif’s advice to Aussie Muslims to spurn secular democracy and join the struggle for a transnational Islamic state.

Sydney organizer for the APP, Nick Folkes, said that the HT should be banned in Australia and thinks that practicing sharia law …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Best shooting in the world claim during Sino-Pak joint anti-terror drill

BEIJING J – Pakistani and Chinese troops taking part in the ongoing anti-terror drill being held at a training base of the Lanzhou Military Command, which guards the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, have been hitting the target with never seen before perfection.

Both countries have sent their top and experienced troops for the drill dubbed ‘Friendship-2010′.

“I …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Best shooting in the world claim during Sino-Pak joint anti-terror drill.

Before White House visit, Israel spells out goods to be restricted from entering Gaza

Israel redefining rules of Gaza blockade
JERUSALEM – Israel is releasing a list of goods it will continue to ban from the Gaza Strip after easing its land blockade of the territory.

The decision comes on the eve of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s White House.
Officials say Israel will still largely restrict desperately needed construction materials and other … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Before White House visit, Israel spells out goods to be restricted from entering Gaza.

Malaysian woman loses citizenship after her name appears in Indian voters list

PETALING JAYA – A Malaysia-born woman has been living in limbo for the past eight years, after losing her citizenship when her name appeared in a voter registration list in India.

In 2002, Mageswari Koothan received a notice from the National Registration Depart-ment telling her that she was no longer a Malaysian after it found she … Read more : Malaysian woman loses citizenship after her name appears in Indian voters list.

TTP amazingly not among 17 terror groups targeted in Pak Punjab Govt. crack down

LAHORE – Under immense pressure from various quarters to take on the militant groups thriving in the province, the Punjab Home Department has set up a task force to crack down on 17 banned terror organisations, but the terror list amazingly has no mention of the ‘father’ of all these groups – the Tehreek-Taliban Pakistan …. Source article  : TTP amazingly not among 17 terror groups targeted in Pak Punjab Govt. crack down.

Afghans see change in US command as a threat to civilians

LOS ANGELES – U.S. Army Gen. David H. Petraeus’ taking command of the troubled Afghan war is worrying Afghans, who fear that the rules laid down by the former Commander of U.S. Forces Afghanistan Stanley Allen McChrystal to protect civilians may be revised.

According to the LA Times, the civilians fear that now, it will … Read more : Afghans see change in US command as a threat to civilians.

24 killed, 19 injured in a bus fire in eastern China

BEIJING – Twenty-four people were killed and 19 others injured after fire engulfed a Chinese steel company’s shuttle bus last night in Wuxi city of East China’s Jiangsu province.

According to Xinhua, the accident occurred at about 11:16 pm in a tunnel when the bus was carrying employees headed to work on the night shift.

No other … Original article on : 24 killed, 19 injured in a bus fire in eastern China.

‘New-generation’ Germany can avenge Euro 2008 loss to Spain: Klose

DURBAN – Germany striker Miroslav Klose believes that his team’s ‘new generation of players’ can avenge their loss to Spain in the Euro 2008 final when the sides meet again in Tuesday’s World Cup semi-final.

Klose was part of an experienced German side that lost the final 1-0, but he said that their World Cup …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Studying the suburbs: From museums to academia, suburban life no longer a laughing matter

Derided no more, suburban life is turning serious

SHAWNEE, Kan. – A national museum about suburban life that is planned outside Kansas City is the latest sign that deep thinkers are starting to take the ‘burbs seriously.
The proposed National Museum of Suburban History in Johnson County, Kan., wants to increase the public’s appreciation of suburban life …. Source article  : Studying the suburbs: From museums to academia, suburban life no longer a laughing matter.

Privacy campaigners blast Brit mikes on street lampposts ’snooping’ project

LONDON – Brit privacy campaigners have condemned reports that council officials are using high-powered spy microphones on street lampposts to listen in on private conversations.

The microphones, connected to CCTV cameras, can recognize aggressive “trigger” words and sounds, then automatically direct cameras to zoom in on the speakers.

According to reports, the Sigard system has been tested … Read more >>>.

Chinese wife refuses to have baby after Argentina’s WC debacle!

NEW DELHI – A couple in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality are at loggerheads after the wife refused to have a baby because Argentina lost to Germany in the World Cup.

According to English.news.cn, the long time Argentina fan made a deal with her husband, a Germany fan, that she would get pregnant this year if Argentina … Read more : Chinese wife refuses to have baby after Argentina’s WC debacle!.

Singaporean woman seeks sponsor for boob job

KUALA LUMPUR – A young Singaporean woman is seeking sponsorship through her online blog for a breast enlargement operation.

The 22-year-old wants to enlarge her breasts from size 29A to 32C for the online show titled Bored in Bikinis, which requires its hosts to wear bikinis for various activities, including playing games and reading the news.

“I … Read more »»».

Sports teams’ success ‘affects how politicians fare in elections’

LONDON – The success of your local sports team in the two weeks before an election affects the performance of incumbent politicians, says a new study led by an Indian origin researcher.

In the new study, researchers looked at US elections for president, governor and senate between 1964 and 2008 and compared them to College American …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sports teams’ success ‘affects how politicians fare in elections’.

Late Sen. Robert C. Byrd to be buried during private service in suburban D.C.

Byrd burial service Tuesday at Arlington cemetery
WASHINGTON – A private burial is planned for the late Sen. Robert C. Byrd at a suburban Washington cemetery.
Byrd is to be buried Tuesday at a cemetery in Arlington, Va., next to his late wife Erma. The burial is the final moment of farewell for the elder …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US sending delegation to Pak to mount pressure for action against Al-Qaeda, affiliates

WASHINGTON – A high-level US delegation would be arriving in Islamabad later this week to convince the Gilani government to take on the Al-Qaeda now as the terror organisation has been weakened significantly.

The delegation led by Daniel Benjamin, coordinator for counter-terrorism at the White House, would assert the Obama administration’s views that Pakistan needs …. Original article  : US sending delegation to Pak to mount pressure for action against Al-Qaeda, affiliates.

Outrage over blacking pool windows to protect Muslim women’s modesty

LONDON – A council in Britain has been slammed for blacking out the windows of a glass-panelled swimming pool in order to protect the modesty of Muslim women.

The centre in Darlaston, near Walsall, West Midlands had been hailed for its “ultra modern” design when it opened 10 years ago, but now all of its 250 …. Source article  : Outrage over blacking pool windows to protect Muslim women’s modesty.

Now, Iran issues Islamic hairstyle list to get rid of “decadent Western cuts”

LONDON – The Iranian government has issued a list of acceptable male hairstyles that includes side-partings and Elvis quiffs in a bid to rid the country of “decadent Western cuts”.

Iran’s culture ministry produced a catalogue of haircuts that meet government approval, and a list of the banned hairstyles, which includes ponytails, mullets and elaborate spikes.

Most … Original article on : Now, Iran issues Islamic hairstyle list to get rid of “decadent Western cuts”.

WBA world light-welterweight champ Amir Khan hospitalized with mystery illness

LONDON – WBA world light-welterweight champion, Amir Khan, has been rushed to hospital after collapsing at his Bolton home with a mystery illness.

According to The Sun, Khan is presently undergoing extensive tests at the private Beaumont Hospital.

The boxer took a holiday in Egypt following the successful defence of his world title against Paulie … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : WBA world light-welterweight champ Amir Khan hospitalized with mystery illness.

Fiancee of Indian-American killed in NY boat accident, refuses to accept fact

NEW YORK – The distraught fiancee of the young Indian American physiotherapist, Jijo Puthuvamkunnath, is in a shocked state of mind and is refusing to accept that her betrothed was killed in a boating accident in New York Harbour.

“She can’t accept it. He was supposed to be here for a barbecue yesterday. She can’t believe …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Fiancee of Indian-American killed in NY boat accident, refuses to accept fact.

Home Secretary Pillai says no immediate need for Army in Naxal-hit areas

RAIPUR – Union Home Secretary G K Pillai has said that there is no immediate need for deployment of Army in the Maoist-hit areas.

Pillai, who is on a three-day visit to Chhattisgarh to review the situation there, said the Centre has discussed the issue in detail at the Cabinet Committee for Security meet and concluded … Read more >>>.

Tension grips Srinagar after man dies in firing

SRINAGAR – Violence continued to plague the Jammu and Kashmir summer capital as fresh street protests erupted Tuesday after a 30-year-old man died of a bullet injury in a clash with security forces.

Fayaz Ahmad Wani, a government employee, was killed and two people were injured when security forces opened fire to disperse a mob protesting … Read : Tension grips Srinagar after man dies in firing.

Dalai Lama celebrates 75th birthday with hundreds of cheering supporters; 22 in Nepal detained

Dalai Lama celebrates birthday with supporters

DHARMSALA, India – The Dalai Lama celebrated his 75th birthday Tuesday with hundreds of cheering followers in this northern Indian town where he has been living in exile since he fled Chinese rule in Tibet in 1959.
Looking at posters depicting his life as a child, a young man and a [..] Read the original article: here.

1 in 10 Aussies falls victim to online theft

MELBOURNE – A new survey has suggested that Australians are falling victim to online identity theft at an alarming rate, costing them 1.3 billion dollars over the past year.

The survey of 2500 Australians found that one in 10 had fallen victim to online identity theft in the past 12 months and each lost an … Read more »».

Maoists blow up school building in Orissa

MALKANGIRI – In a fresh case of Maoist violence in Orissa, rebels blew up a school building in Malkangiri district early this morning.

According to sources, about 100 heavily-armed rebels stormed into a village under Kalimela police station area and blew up the building, causing extensive damage to the structure.

The school building was targeted as …. Original article  : Maoists blow up school building in Orissa.

Pak lie nailed: puts JuD in banned groups list but orders no ‘restrictions’ on its activities

LAHORE – Pakistan continues to bluff India and the world over action against the Jamaat-ud-Daawa (JuD), as even though the terror group has been included in the Punjab province government’s list of 23 banned extremist organisations working under the veil of new names, it would not face the same restrictions like others in the group.

The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pak lie nailed: puts JuD in banned groups list but orders no ‘restrictions’ on its activities.

Afghan Taliban warlord Mullah Omar nabbed in Karachi, claims US blogger

WASHINGTON – A former US Homeland Security Department official has claimed that Afghan Taliban chief Muhammed Mullah Omar has been arrested.

The official, who is identified only as Bred, wrote on his blog that Omar, who has 25 million dollar bounty on his head, was nabbed in Karachi in March.

In November 2009, the Washington Times had … Original source on Gaea Times at : Afghan Taliban warlord Mullah Omar nabbed in Karachi, claims US blogger.

Tributes to martyrs mark Farmers Day in Coimbatore

COIMBATORE – Farmers in Tamil Nadu gathered in huge numbers at Coimbatore to observe the Farmers Day on Monday.

Over one thousand farmers, holding banners, took part in the rally organised by the Tamil Nadu Farmers Association. They paid tributes to the farmers who lost their lives during the crusade for better farming facilities and … Read more >>>.

Religious groups in Malaysia asked to find ways to increase Indian population

KUALA LUMPUR – Perak Malaysian Indian Congress chief K. Kumaran has asked Indian religious and welfare organisations to come together to find ways to increase the Indian population in Malaysia.

Speaking to reporters after attending the annual celebrations of the Sri Maha Kaliamman Om Sakthi temple in Buntong Dua, Ipoh, he said fewer people would be …. Original article  : Religious groups in Malaysia asked to find ways to increase Indian population.

Fresh hope for Indian-Malaysian woman to have her Malaysian citizenship restored

PETALING JAYA – Malaysia’s Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) will be meeting with officers from the Home Ministry to discuss the case of a Malaysia-born woman who has been living in limbo for the past eight years, after losing her citizenship when her name appeared in a voter registration list in India.

In 2002, Mageswari Koothan received … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Fresh hope for Indian-Malaysian woman to have her Malaysian citizenship restored.

World’s smallest mum vows to have more babies after giving birth to third

LONDON – World’s smallest mother from Kentucky, USA, has vowed to have more babies after she gave birth to her third child.

“I’ll have more children,” 36-year-old Stacey Herald said.

At just 2 feet 4 inches, Stacy has been warned against getting pregnant, because a baby would grow too big and crush her lungs and heart.

Stacey …. Source  : World’s smallest mum vows to have more babies after giving birth to third.

Army in Srinagar till necessary: minister

NEW DELHI – The government Wednesday said the Indian Army would stay in Srinagar to keep peace for as long as it was necessary.

The army will be in Srinagar “as long as it is necessary”, Minister of State for Defence M.M. Pallam Raju told reporters on the sidelines of a function here.
“But we would … Original article on : Army in Srinagar till necessary: minister.

McChrystal’s “courageous restraint” putting soldiers’ lives in danger in Afghanistan

LONDON – Troops serving on the front line in Afghanistan have complained that restrictive rules on firing upon the Taliban are putting soldiers’ lives in danger.

According to the Telegraph, soldiers in Helmand have claimed that the policy of “courageous restraint” is forcing them to fight with one hand tied behind their backs.

“The policy was …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : McChrystal’s “courageous restraint” putting soldiers’ lives in danger in Afghanistan.

Floods affect major parts of India

CHANDIGARH/DISPUR/THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Army help das been sought in Ambala and Kurukshetra districts of Haryana following heavy rains in the state. In neighbouring Punjab, vast tracts agriculture land have been inundated.

Rains have disrupted road and rail traffic, leaving a large number of people stranded in various areas in the two Haryana districts, officials said.

Deputy Commissioner of …. Read the original article  : here.

‘Some Pak political parties supporting terrorists’

KARACHI – Jafaria Alliance Pakistan chief Allama Abbas Kumaili and Sunni Tehreek leader Shahid Ghauri have said that some political parties in the country were supporting terrorists.

They also claimed that a religious school of thought in Pakistan wanted to impose its ideology on the country’s people.

Kumaili further said that the Data Darbar terrorist attack should …. Source article  : ‘Some Pak political parties supporting terrorists’.

CIDCO Housing Project Forms Released

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- CIDCO (City and Industrial Development Corporation) Mass Housing Project forms has been made available from Wednesday. Reportedly, the mass housing project of CIDCO shall take place at Ulwe. The forms can be obtained from all major railway stations of Navi Mumbai leaving out Seawoods and Turbhe. The CIDCO forms are priced …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

BSF trooper killed on Kashmir border, tensions up

JAMMU – Another Border Security Force (BSF) trooper has been killed in firing from across the international border in Jammu and Kashmir, the second incident of ceasefire violation, official sources said Wednesday.

The Pakistan Rangers opened fire at the Indian border post of Chag Phagwari in Akhnoor, 45 km northwest of Jammu, at 11.30 p.m. Tuesday, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ambala Widow Seeks Compensation From Court

AMBALA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Suman Sharma, the widow of Rakesh Sharma or Bobby, the alias under which the man worked, has moved the High Courts of Punjab and Haryana, and has asked for a compensation after the sudden death of her husband who was murdered in the month of March this year. Rakesh Sharma was murdered … Read more »»».

Officials: NATO airstrike accidentally kills 5 Afghan troops on patrol in eastern province

NATO airstrike accidentally kills 5 Afghan troops

KABUL, Afghanistan – NATO mistakenly killed five of its Afghan army allies in an airstrike Wednesday while the Afghans were attacking insurgents in the country’s east, officials said.
An Afghan defense official condemned the latest “friendly fire” deaths, which came at a time when international troops are trying to improve …. Original article  : Officials: NATO airstrike accidentally kills 5 Afghan troops on patrol in eastern province.

Indian navy officer killed in accidental fire

KOCHI/NEW DELHI – A senior Indian Navy officer was Wednesday killed in accidental fire near the firing range of INS Dronacharya, a gunnery school near the southern naval base in Kerala’s Kochi city.

“I regret to inform that Chief of Staff, Southern Naval Command, Rear Admiral S.S. Jamwal, died in an accidental firing at INS …. Read the original article  : Indian navy officer killed in accidental fire.

Terrorist attacks not retaliation against US drone strikes, says MQM chief

KARACHI – The Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain has said that the recent terrorist attacks were not a reaction to the drone attacks in the country.

Hussain also said that the terrorists who attacked the shrine of Data Ganj Bakhsh were not worthy of being called humans.

He said although the MQM had always …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Police arrest Maoist arms suppliers in Jharkhand

JAMSHEDPUR – Jharkhand police has busted an arms supply racket with the arrest of nine persons from Jamshedpur.

“Police also seized 13 pistols (7.65mm), a 9mm revolver, 443 cartridges, Indian Small Arms System (INSAS) .315, about 200,000 rupees and nine mobile phones,” said Senior Superintendent of Police, Navin Kumar Singh.

The arrested persons have been identified …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Southern Naval Commander Jamwal killed in firing

KOCHI – Southern Naval Command chief Rear Admiral SS Jamwal was today killed in a firing incident at INS Dronacharya in Kochi.

“I regret to inform that Rear Admiral SS Jamwal, Chief Of Straff, Southern Naval Command died in an accidental firing at INS Dronacharya, in the forenoon hours today,” said a statement issued by the …. Original source  : Southern Naval Commander Jamwal killed in firing.

Fresh batch of 82,000 pilgrims leave Jammu for Amarnath

JAMMU – A fresh batch of 82,000 pilgrims left here on Wednesday for their onward journey to the holy Amarnath cave shrine.

The batch comprising of 2,137 males, 409 females, 49 children and 225 sadhus left in a convoy of 84 vehicles.

With today’s batch over 21,000 pilgrims have left for Amarnath from Jammu base camp in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

PML-N still in denial over presence of terrorist training camps in South Punjab

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Punjab government led by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) appears hesitant to identify any militant group in South Punjab, as PML-N leader Javed Hashmi has reiterated that there were no terrorist training camps in the region.

Hashmi also said that there was no need for any military operation in the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Iranian organization issues guidelines for modest hairstyles to combat ‘Western’ fashion

Iran offers modest new haircut guidelines for men

TEHRAN, Iran – An Iranian fashion organization has issued a new list of culturally appropriate haircuts for men, possibly indicating a new crackdown on male attire after years of strict rules for women, Iranian media reported.
Although the Ministry of Culture has yet to officially adopt the styles presented …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Terrorist plan to assassinate Pak President Zardari revealed

LAHORE – A terrorist plan to assassinate Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has been revealed by suspects arrested in the wake of the suicide attack on Data Darbar last week.

The police have arrested six terrorists after the July 1 attack, in which at least 42 people were killed and over 175 injured in two …. Read the original article  : here.

Levi Johnston apologizes to the Palins

WASHINGTON – Playgirl centerfold Levi Johnston has publicly apologized to Sarah Palin for saying untrue things about her family.

The 20-year-old hockey hunk said various things about the Palins in public after splitting from Sarah’s daughter Bristol.

“Last year, after Bristol and I broke up, I was unhappy and a little angry. Unfortunately, against my better judgment, …. Original source  : Levi Johnston apologizes to the Palins.

Jharkhand: Seven trains cancelled following Maoist shutdown

RANCHI J – Seven trains were cancelled and routes of five diverted in Jharkhand as Maoists began their two-day shutdown in seven states to protest the killing of their top leader in Andhra Pradesh.

Maoists called the strike to protest the killing of their top leader Cherukuri Rajkumar alias Azad in an alleged shootout on …. Read the original article  : Jharkhand: Seven trains cancelled following Maoist shutdown.

UK troops to hand over ‘deathtrap’northern Helmand to US forces in Afghanistan

LONDON – A report has said that British troops will hand over some of the most dangerous and heavily contested parts of Afghanistan to US forces.

According to the Telegraph, Liam Fox, the Defence Secretary, will tell MPs today that British troops in Helmand province will hand over districts including Sangin, where scores of British troops …. Read the original article  : UK troops to hand over ‘deathtrap’northern Helmand to US forces in Afghanistan.

Sri Lankan protesters besiege UN building to end human rights violation probe

LONDON – Protesters are carrying out demonstrations outside the U.N. offices in Sri Lanka to force the world body to cancel its probe into alleged human rights violations during the civil war.

According to the BBC, most of the UN staff managed to leave after police tried to break the blockade in Colombo, before being asked …. Original source  : Sri Lankan protesters besiege UN building to end human rights violation probe.

Thousands of undiscovered plant species face extinction

LONDON – Faced with threats like habitat loss and climate change, many thousands of rare flowering plant species worldwide may become extinct even before discovery.

“Scientists have estimated that there could be five million to 50 million of such species, but less than two million of these have been discovered till date,” says Lucas Joppa …. Read the original article  : Thousands of undiscovered plant species face extinction.

Correct car seat use vital to child safety

WASHINGTON – Studies have shown the importance of car seat education and how it can avoid fatalities amongst children.

“Incorrect usage of car seats and child restraints has played a large role in motor vehicle accidents continuing to be the leading killer of children in our country,” said Karen Judy, associate professor department of paediatrics Loyola … Original source on Gaea Times at : Correct car seat use vital to child safety.

Ohio woman pretends to be a boy to seduce girl

MELBOURNE – An Ohio woman seduced a teenage girl she had a crush on by pretending to be a 14-year-old boy.

Patricia Dye, 31, of Franklin, used the alias Matt Abrams to get along with 16-year-old girl.

She was charged with unlawful sexual conduct and corruption of the Springboro girl.

According to the Dayton Daily News, the incident … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ohio woman pretends to be a boy to seduce girl.

Poll claims independent voters ‘disappointed’ and ‘angry’ with Obama administration

WASHINGTON – A poll has revealed that a majority of independent voters are unhappy with the Obama administration and just over half intend to use their vote in November to put a check on him and the Democratic dominant Congress.

According to Fox News, the poll has found that six percent of the independents are … Original article on : Poll claims independent voters ‘disappointed’ and ‘angry’ with Obama administration.

‘Climategate’ review clears scientists of dishonesty over data presentation

LONDON – Climate scientists, who were earlier accused of fudging their results on man-made global warming, have been cleared of any wrongdoing, and thus, have silenced their critics.

Sir Muir Russell, the senior civil servant who led a six-month inquiry into the affair, said the “rigour and honesty” of the scientists at the world-leading Climatic Research …. Read the original article  : ‘Climategate’ review clears scientists of dishonesty over data presentation.

Cloudburst causes property damage in Himachal’s Manikaran Valley

SHIMLA – A cloudburst in the Manikaran Valley of Himachal’s Kullu District has caused heavy damage to public and private property.

A couple of bridges, vehicles, machinery and other equipments at the under construction Parbati Hydro Electric Project have been washed away.

The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation Limited is building the 800 Mega Watt …. Read the original article  : Cloudburst causes property damage in Himachal’s Manikaran Valley.

News reports say UK gay priest rejected as nominee for bishopric

News reports: gay priest rejected for UK bishopric

LONDON – News reports say that a Church of England committee has decided against nominating a gay priest to become a bishop.
Church officials are not commenting, but reporter Jonathan Wynne-Jones says in Thursday’s Daily Telegraph that the Very Rev. Jeffrey John was rejected as a potential nominee to …. Source  : News reports say UK gay priest rejected as nominee for bishopric.

Now a plan to dissolve the dead and flush them

LONDON – Undertakers in Belgium have chalked out a plan to dissolve human corpses in corrosive chemical solution and then flush them into the sewage, rather than running a crematorium or using up land for graves.

The dead would end up in the sewage systems and then be recycled in water processing plants, Daily … Read more >>.

Nixon planned to hit N.Korea with nuclear strike in 1969

WASHINGTON – Former US president Richard Nixon is believed to have ordered nuclear bombers to be put on standby for an immediate strike on North Korea.

According to newly revealed government documents, obtained by the National Security Archive in Washington after a freedom of information request, describe the plan codenamed Freedom Drop, as calling for “pre-coordinated …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Nixon planned to hit N.Korea with nuclear strike in 1969.

Cabinet decides to refer Khap Panchayat issue to GoM

NEW DELHI – The Union Cabinet on Thursday decided to refer the controversial Khap Panchayat issue to a Group of Ministers (GoM).

Talking to reporters after the meeting, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni said: “The GoM will be set up to consider amendments to the law to deal with honour killings.

“The views of … Read more : Cabinet decides to refer Khap Panchayat issue to GoM.

STPI Investigates Bullying Incident

TANGERANG, INDONESIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Indonesian State Aviation School (STPI) launched an interrogation session today where four senior students of the institution were questioned on their act of ragging six of their juniors. It has been alleged that four students of the senior section from the institution were involved in an act of bullying six … Read more : STPI Investigates Bullying Incident.

Egypt unveils discovery of father-and-son tombs dating back 4,300 years at ancient necropolis

Egypt unveils discovery of 4,300-year-old tombs

SAQQARA, Egypt – Egyptian archaeologists have unveiled their latest discovery – two 4,300-year-old tombs carved out of stone and unearthed in the ancient necropolis of Saqqara near Cairo.
The tombs have false doors with paintings depicting their owners – a father and a son who served as heads of the royal …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Egypt unveils discovery of father-and-son tombs dating back 4,300 years at ancient necropolis.

UK mayor’s report favors minority recruits joining Met at a higher rank

LONDON – A new report commissioned by London Mayor, Boris Johnson, has said the Metropolitan Police is not doing enough to retain and promote black, minority and ethnic officers, and recommended that police recruits from a black, minority or ethnic background should be allowed to join at a higher rank than constable.

The report’s recommendations say …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : UK mayor’s report favors minority recruits joining Met at a higher rank.

Jaganmohan Reddy begins defiant yatra

HYDERABAD – Congress MP and the son of late Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YSR Reddy, Jaganmohan Reddy began his Odarpu yatra on Thursday, to honour his father’s memory, from Srikakulam, despite the opposition of his party.

He started his tour of two districts Srikakulam and East Godavari from Icchapuram.he ostensible purpose of the yatra was to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jaganmohan Reddy begins defiant yatra.

Marijuana use in California may double if legal: Study

WASHINGTON – Legalizing marijuana could bring down the price of the drug and encourage sales in California, says a new study.

The study by RAND Corporation reported that the prices could be cut by 80 percent, and drug use could become rampant.

Even with high taxes (50 dollars per ounce) and a moderate rate of tax evasion …. Read the original article  : Marijuana use in California may double if legal: Study.

Three HINDRAF leaders to face sedition rap

PUTRAJAYA – Three leaders of the outlawed Hindu Rights Action Force (HINDRAF) will return to the Klang Sessions Court to face the sedition charge preferred against them in November 2007.

According to a New Strait Times report, a Court of Appeal yesterday unanimously struck out the appeal by P. Uthayakumar, 48, his brother Waytha Moorthy, 43, … Original article on : Three HINDRAF leaders to face sedition rap.

Popularity of Lady Gaga’s “doe-eyed” look raises safety concerns

WASHINGTON – Lady Gaga’s ‘big-eyed effect’, made popular by the singer in her Bad Romance video, is increasingly gaining popularity among teens who are using “circle lenses” to change the look of their eyes in size and colour.

While Gaga’s look in the video was largely computer generated, more and more teens are reportedly using lenses … Read more >>>.

Terrorists planning massive strike across country, warns Pak intelligence

LAHORE – Pakistan intelligence agencies have warned that militants are planning to expedite terror attacks across the country using suicide bombers and explosives-laden vehicles.

According to intelligence inputs, terrorists in the Khyber, and Orakzai Agencies and the Malakand Division, including Swat, are gathering at Darra Adam Khel, which has now become their new safe haven.

The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Terrorists planning massive strike across country, warns Pak intelligence.

Indefinite curfew continues in Srinagar, army stages another flag march

SRINAGAR – Indefinite curfew continues in the Kashmir Valley, though stray incidents of violence were reported as the Army under took another flag march in Srinagar.

Sopore and old parts of Baramulla were also placed under curfew as a precautionary measure.

According to sources, a group of protestors attempted to gather in the Batmaloo area of Srinagar …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

China believes US would not mount pressure over Pak nuke deal: Expert

WASHINGTON – Despite initial concerns, the United States is unlikely to pressurise China over its plans to build two nuclear reactors in Pakistan, an American expert on Sino-Pakistan relationship has said.

Andrew Small of the German Marshall Fund of the United States said Beijing believes that Washington would need its support on various issues such …. Source article  : China believes US would not mount pressure over Pak nuke deal: Expert.

Good-looking politicians get more media coverage: Study

WASHINGTON – The better a politician looks, the more his chances of appearing on television, says a new study.

Dr. Yariv Tsfati, Dana Markowitz Elfassi and Dr. Israel Waismel-Manor surveyed the coverage of all members of the 16th Israeli Knesset on Israeli television channels 1, 2 and 10.

In parallel they had the appearance of each … Original source on Gaea Times at : Good-looking politicians get more media coverage: Study.

15 killed, dozens injured in FATA suicide attack

PESHAWAR – At least 15 people were killed and dozens others wounded when a suicide bomber blew himself up outside the office of a senior government official in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas’ Mohmand Agency on Friday.

The bomber struck when people gathered around the office in the tribal area’s Yakaghund tehsil.

“The bomber blew himself up …. Original source  : 15 killed, dozens injured in FATA suicide attack.

Mandela ‘corpse’ painting evokes angry response in Jo’burg mall

JOHANNESBURG – A painting depicting Nelson Mandela as a corpse undergoing an autopsy is causing a stir in a Johannesburg shopping center.

The painting is a modern take of a 17th century Rembrandt painting called “The Anatomy Lesson of Dr Nicolaes Tripp” which depicts an autopsy being undertaken in front of a group of doctors.

In artist …. Source  : Mandela ‘corpse’ painting evokes angry response in Jo’burg mall.

480-year-old Brit hardware store shuts

LONDON – A 480-year-old hardware store in Britain is being shut down.

Gill and Co was the country’s first ironmonger when it opened in Oxford in 1530 – while Henry VIII was still married to first wife Catherine of Aragon.

Owner Victor Hunt, 48, said he’s lost customers to out-of-town DIY superstores.

“It’s the … Original source on Gaea Times at : 480-year-old Brit hardware store shuts.

World’s oldest person is 130 years old!

LONDON – A great-great granny has claimed that she has turned 130 years old, which makes her the world’s oldest person.

Antisa Khvichava, who still wears bright red lipstick, lives in a remote mountain village in Georgia with her 40-year-old grandson.

Although, Khvichava birth certificate was lost during a century of war and revolution – … Original article on : World’s oldest person is 130 years old!.

Media gets curfew passes in Srinagar

SRINAGAR – Two days after it cancelled all curfew passes, authorities in Jammu and Kashmir’s Srinagar city Friday issued fresh passes to the media.

After seeking the army’s assistance to enforce an indefinite curfew in the state’s summer capital and other parts of the valley, authorities had cancelled all curfew passes, including those for local media … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Media gets curfew passes in Srinagar.

Georgian woman, ‘world’s oldest person’, turns 130

LONDON – A woman from a remote mountain village in Georgia has turned 130, making her the oldest person on earth, officials in the former Soviet republic have claimed.

Antisa Khvichava from western Georgia was born July 8, 1880, said Georgiy Meurnishvili, spokesman for the civil registry at the justice ministry.
According to records, the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Georgian woman, ‘world’s oldest person’, turns 130.

Horn scorned: UAE religious edict seeks to silence World Cup vuvuzela

Unholy noise: UAE fatwa bans World Cup horns

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – The horns that have blared at World Cup matches in South Africa make an unholy racket – according to a religious edict in the United Arab Emirates.
A fatwa by the UAE’s General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments declares that the now-famous blast …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Louisiana’s new law allows cancelled guns into religious places

WASHINGTON – Gun rights advocates got a monumental boost with Louisiana law that allows concealed handguns in religious places, overturning a state ban.

“The governor’s position on the Second Amendment is not new, he sides with the constitutional rights of law-abiding gun owners,” Fox News quoted Gov. Bobby Jindal’s spokesman Kyle Plotkin, as saying.

Supporters of … Read more »».

NKorea says imprisoned American is receiving medical treatment after he tried to kill himself

NKorea: Imprisoned American tried to kill himself

SEOUL, South Korea – North Korea says an American imprisoned for illegally entering the reclusive country has attempted to kill himself.
The North’s official Korean Central News Agency reported Friday that Aijalon Mahli Gomes, from Boston, attempted to commit suicide and was being treated at a hospital.
The KCNA report said …. Read the original article  : here.

Train services resume on Ambala- New Delhi route

CHANDIGARH – Trains services resumed on the Ambala-New Delhi section of the railways. The track, which had sunk at a few places due to floods, was strengthened with sand bags.

Railway authorities stopped the movement of trains after the track started sinking near Shahbad town in Haryana, 65 km from Chandigarh.

Several trains were cancelled and … Read more >>.

Hurriyat leader held for instigating violence

SRINAGAR – Shabir Ahmad Wani, a middle rung leader of Jammu and Kashmir’s hardline Hurriyat group, has been arrested here for allegedly instigating violence in the valley, police said Friday.

Wani was arrested late Thursday based on intercepts of a phone conversation between him and another person identified as Ghulam Ahmad Dar, a police official said. …. Original article  : Hurriyat leader held for instigating violence.

Kashmir violence: Abdullah to convene all party meet on Monday

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will convened an all party meeting on Monday to discuss the prevailing situation in the Kashmir Valley, where the army has been staging flag marches to restore law and order.

The decision to hold an all-party meeting is part of Abdullah’s initiative to reach out to all … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kashmir violence: Abdullah to convene all party meet on Monday.

UN chief recalls top envoy to Sri Lanka

London, July 9 ANI): United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has recalled the world body’s top envoy to Sri Lanka and closed down an office in Colombo in light of continuing protests over a panel set up to investigate war crimes.

According to the BBC, Ban Ki-moon has said that it was “unacceptable” that Sri Lankan … Original source on Gaea Times at : UN chief recalls top envoy to Sri Lanka.

Google expecting China to clear its license to operate

Sun Valley (Idaho, US),J – The CEO of search engine giant Google, Eric Schmidt, has said that he expects China to renew the company’s license to allow it to operate in the mainland.

Talking with reporters at the annual media conference in Sun Valley, Idaho, hosted by investment bank Allen and Co, Schmidt said, … Read more >>>.

Eleven killed in West Bengal road mishap

BANKURA – At least eleven persons were killed when a speeding truck hit their car in West Bengal’s Bankura district.

The incident occurred on National Highway No.40 near Barjora in Bankura district last night.

According to police, the truck driver fled the spot. (ANI)
…. Source  : Eleven killed in West Bengal road mishap.

Hurriyat activist arrested for instigating violence in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Shabir Ahmed Wani, district President of Hurriyat conference, accused of trying to instigate more violence in Kashmir Valley, was arrested on Friday.

Police arrested Wani from Narbal-Magam road after intercepting his conversation with another hardline Hurriyat activist, Ghulam Ahmed Dar.

Wani was booked under various provisions of the Ranbir Penal Code and may be charged … Read : Hurriyat activist arrested for instigating violence in Kashmir.

Malaysian criminal’s move to fake his murder in India exposes him

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian criminal Michael Soosai’s decision to fake his murder in southern India eventually backfired on him, and exposed his nefarious activities, including forgery, intimidation, harassment and murder.

The businessman, who was 43 during his “purported death”, was facing a 20-year-old jail sentence for charges of cheque forgery, amounting to more than RM1 …. Original article  : Malaysian criminal’s move to fake his murder in India exposes him.

Malaysian politician in dock over faking knighthood from the Queen

KUALA LUMPUR – A Malaysian politician is facing the sack for superimposing his head on to a picture of the Queen giving out honours in an attempt to claim he had been knighted.

Jeffrey Wong Su En has been accused of insulting the Commonwealth with his false claims.

In the doctored picture issued by Wong, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

100th British soldier killed in southern Afghanistan

LONDON – A British soldier has become the 100th member of UK forces to be killed in the Sangin area of southern Afghanistan. ccording to The Telegraph, 313 British soldiers have died in Afghanistan since they entered the country in 2001.

It quoted the defence ministry as saying that the serviceman, from 5th Regiment Royal Artillery, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 100th British soldier killed in southern Afghanistan.

EU throws 400m pounds “down a black hole”

LONDON – Brussels pen pushers doled out a whopping 160,000pounds to a dance troupe who perform “spectacular belching” and “smelly foot” jigs, it has emerged.

The taxpayers’ money was handed to the London-based Flying Gorillas group who use “rhythm, music …. Original article  : EU throws 400m pounds “down a black hole”.

N. Korea media slams S. Korea over “persisting in anti-DPRK policy”

NEW DELHI – North Korean daily Rodong Sinmun has accused South Korean authorities of “persisting with an anti-DPRK policy.”

In a commentary published on Saturday, the newspaper also said that Seoul took “the resolution of nuclear issues on Korean Peninsula as the … Read more >>.

Body found on tires of passenger plane flying from Lebanon to Saudi Arabia

Body found on airplane tires in Saudi Arabia

BEIRUT – Lebanon’s state news agency says the remains of a body have been found on the rear tires of an airplane that flew from Beirut to the Saudi capital of Riyadh.
The National News Agency report says the jet from the Saudi “Nasair” company landed in Riyadh just … Original article on : Body found on tires of passenger plane flying from Lebanon to Saudi Arabia.

Malaysian Casanovas spiking women’s drinks with sex stimulant

KUALA LUMPUR – Casanovas are spiking women’s drinks with a stimulant, used to encourage pigs to breed, in a bid to “arouse” them for sex, a Malaysian daily has reported.

According to the Harian Metro, the men inject the drug into packaged drinks before offering them to women, who then get excited”.

Women who take the substance …. Read the original article  : Malaysian Casanovas spiking women’s drinks with sex stimulant.

Curfew imposed in Maisuma in Srinagar

SRINAGAR – After an uneasy calm yesterday here the authorities have re-imposed curfew in Maisuma locality this morning, following instances of stone-pelting.

The curfew here was lifted yesterday evening to enable people to offer prayers on Shab-e-Mehraj, an occasion with religious significance. The decision was taken at a meeting presided over by the Chief …. Original source  : Curfew imposed in Maisuma in Srinagar.

India, China account for 47pc of 5 bn global mobile connections

LONDON – A survey into the mobile phone connections worldwide has revealed that there are now over 5 billion, with the Asia-Pacific region including India and China being the main users.

Ben Wood, mobile phone analyst at CCS Insight said the mobile phone may be “the most prolific consumer device on the planet”.

“If you just take …. Original article  : India, China account for 47pc of 5 bn global mobile connections.

‘Dangerous’ Australia’s Next Top Model throws out ‘too big’ size 8 model

MELBOURNE – ‘Australia’s Next Top Model’ has been described as “dangerous” by body image experts after it threw out a size 8 teen contestant for being “too big”.

Ashlea Monigatti, 16, said she was “embarrassed” and shamed into eating salad after being excluded from a parade at the recent Australian Fashion Week in Sydney.

The schoolgirl, whose … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Dangerous’ Australia’s Next Top Model throws out ‘too big’ size 8 model.

China is world’s biggest sex-toy producer

NEW DELHI – China has become the world’s biggest sex toy producer, despite the country being known for its conservative stance on several issues, including sex.

China produces about 70 percent of the world’s sex toys, Xinhua quoted Chinese sex toy manufacturer, Romeo Jiang, as saying.

China’s sex toy industry in China, with more than 1,000 … Read this article on Gaea Times at : China is world’s biggest sex-toy producer.

China rejects Japan media on military spending

BEIJING – China has rejected Japanese media reports on its military spending being 1.5 times higher than the country’s 2010 defense budget cited in March.

According to the China Daily, Japanese media, including Kyodo News and Japan Today reported on Thursday that China’s military spending is 788 billion Yuan (116.4 billion dollars) in 2010, about … Read more : China rejects Japan media on military spending.

Police unearth CDs of Taliban like terror module in Kerala

ALUVA/MUVATTUPUZHA – Kerala Police have unearthed compact discs allegedly belonging to a Taliban-like terror module in Aluva and Muvattupuzha areas of the state.

Police sources said the CDs belonged to the Popular Front of India (PFI). They confirmed that they had retrieved many terror related documents that contained Taliban and Al-Queda plans for attacks.

Police said …. Original article  : Police unearth CDs of Taliban like terror module in Kerala.

UK looking for ways to ban Anna Chapman’s return

LONDON – The British Home Office is looking for ways to stop the Russian spy Anna Chapman, from returning to the country.

According to The Telegraph, officials are investigating ways to legally bar her after she announced her intention to move back to the country where she had lived for seven years.

Anna was granted a passport … Read more >>>.

Online sex shops booming in China

NEW DELHI – More and more Chinese are going online to buy sex toys and products these days.

“Many Chinese want to buy sex toys but cringe at the thought of entering sex shops,” Li Yinhe, a sociologist and sexologist with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said.

“Online sex-toy shopping can avoid such problems since … Original article on : Online sex shops booming in China.

China’s ’sexual’ revolution

NEW DELHI – China is shedding its conservative garb and turning to adult sex toys and products more openly these days.

“We now have equal number of male and female purchasers in Beijing. Our sales have kept increasing, with an annual increase of 30 percent over the past decade,” Li Fang, CEO of Juse, one of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : China’s ’sexual’ revolution.

Gen. Petraeus facing resistance from Karzai over village defense forces

KABUL – Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai has reportedly raised objections to an American plan to create Afghan village defence forces to fight the Taliban.

According to a Washington Post report, Karzai has suggested that the plan mooted by new NATO commander General David Petraeus requires a revisit.

The idea of recruiting villagers into local defense programs is …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Gen. Petraeus facing resistance from Karzai over village defense forces.

Kashmir crisis: Farooq Abdullah meets Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Farooq Abdullah met Home Minister P Chidambaram here today to discuss steps being taken by the Centre and state governments to bring back normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir.

According to sources, an AICC delegation is likely to visit the Kashmir Valley ahead of Monday’s all-party meeting … Read : Kashmir crisis: Farooq Abdullah meets Chidambaram.

Nude scenes in films are “unsuitable”, says Malaysian Culture Minister

KUALA LUMPUR – Dr Rais Yatim, the Malaysian minister for Information, Communications, and Culture, says actors will not be allowed to violate the tenets of Islam and pose nude for films.

“Something that is prohibited in Islam and is still done is a violation. So, we are not keen to discuss this matter,” The Star Online …. Source  : Nude scenes in films are “unsuitable”, says Malaysian Culture Minister.

Britain’s most wanted fugitive Moat commits suicide

LONDON – Britain’s most wanted fugitive Raoul Moat has shot himself after a six-hour stand-off with armed officers in Rothbury, Northumberland.

According to The Sun, he shot himself at He shot himself at 1.15am and was rushed to Newcastle General Hospital by armed convoy, but he was pronounced dead at 0220 BST on Saturday morning.

Moat had …. Source article  : Britain’s most wanted fugitive Moat commits suicide.

Newspaper, artist defend Mandela anatomy painting

CAPE TOWN – The Mail and Guardian has defended itself and the artist behind a painting depicting an autopsy of former South African president Nelson Mandela.

The African National Congress (ANC), however, condemned the painting, calling it racist and an act of “witchcraft”.

“In African society it is a foreign act of ubuthakathi (witchcraft) to kill …. Original article  : Newspaper, artist defend Mandela anatomy painting.

UK ambassador regrets any offense caused by blog post praising late Lebanese cleric

UK envoy regrets offense over blog on late cleric

BEIRUT – Britain’s ambassador to Beirut says she regrets any offense caused by a controversial blog post in which she praised Lebanon’s late leading Shiite cleric.
Frances Guy angered Israelis and embarrassed officials in London after describing Grand Ayatollah Mohammed Hussein Fadlallah as a “true man of religion” … Read : UK ambassador regrets any offense caused by blog post praising late Lebanese cleric.

Arab Americans protest CNN’s firing of senior editor Nasr

WASHINGTON – Arab-Americans have expressed their anger over CNN firing its Senior Middle East News Editor Octavia Nasr.

Nasr’s 20-year career at CNN ended Wednesday after a tweet mourning the death of Sayyed Mohammed Hussein Fadlallah, a Lebanese Shiite cleric whom she called “one of Hezbollah’s giants I respect a lot.”

Facing a rash of criticism, she …. Read the original article  : Arab Americans protest CNN’s firing of senior editor Nasr.

World Population Day Events In India

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- It seems that the fashion fraternity of India is waking up to the population problem of India and is trying to do its bit to address the issue. The leading Indian fashion designers and page 3 hoppers have started an initiative on the eve of the world population day to … Read more : World Population Day Events In India.

Palestinian leader says direct talks with Israel would be futile under current circumstances

Abbas: No point in direct talks with Israel now

RAMALLAH, West Bank – The Palestinian president says direct talks with Israel would be futile under current circumstances.
President Mahmoud Abbas is under pressure from the U.S. to resume negotiations that broke off in 2008, under Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s predecessor.
But he has said he won’t return … Original article on : Palestinian leader says direct talks with Israel would be futile under current circumstances.

Kashmir problem is core issue between India, Pakistan: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq

SRINAGAR – All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) moderate faction chief Mirwaiz Umar Farooq led a massive protest in Srinagar on Saturday, and reiterated that the Kashmir problem is the core issue between India and Pakistan.

The march that began from Jamia Masjid, or the big mosque witnessed the participation of thousands of people including women.

“The Kashmir … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Kashmir problem is core issue between India, Pakistan: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.

Vegetable prices soar amidst Maoists shutdown

JHARGRAM – Vegetable prices are on the rise in West Bengal, as supplies have dried up in the market following a 48-hour ‘all India shutdown’ called by the Maoists on July 7-8 to protest the killing of their leader Cherukuri Rajkumar alias Azad.

The locals in West Bengal’s Jhargram District are facing problems due to the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Vegetable prices soar amidst Maoists shutdown.

Retired defence personnel demand hike in pension

AMRITSAR – Scores of retired defence personnel staged a protest in Punjab’s Amritsar city on Saturday demanding an immediate hike in their pensions.

Venting their ire, the veteran soldiers, donning their military decorations, badges and medals and chanting patriotic slogans with fervour, polished shoes and pulled rickshaws to draw attention to their plight.

The fiery protest, organized [..] Read the original article: here.

Pak troops kill 38 Taliban in South Waziristan

ISLAMABAD – At least 32 Taliban militants have been killed as fierce fighting erupted between Pakistani security forces and extremists in South Waziristan breaking months long pause in violence in the region.

Officials said over 35 troops also sustained injuries in the latest ambush which took place at various Mehud tribe dominated places in the …. Read the original article  : here.

Brit MPs accused of prolonging Commons debate to claim 130 pounds

LONDON – British MPs are taking advantage of new expenses rules by extending the debate past 1am in a bid to claim up to 130pounds in overnight hotel allowances, it has been alleged.

According to David Morris, the Conservative MP for Morecambe and Lunesdale, the expenses of keeping the Commons open so late – including … Read : Brit MPs accused of prolonging Commons debate to claim 130 pounds.

Devotees offer prayers at Hazratbal shrine in Srinagar

SRINAGAR – Scores of devotees converged for peace prayers at the famous Muslim shrine of Hazratbal to mark Meraj-ul-Alam festival in Srinagar on Saturday.

The shrine, however, witnessed less number of devotees in comparison to previous years due to a curfew following widespread incidents of mobs stone-pelting at security forces and the killing of more than … Read more : Devotees offer prayers at Hazratbal shrine in Srinagar.

Nirupama Rao meets Dalai Lama

DHARAMSALA – Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao met Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, and held high-level talks during her protocol visit.

Several top Tibetan officials-in-exile received Nirupama Rao at the Kangra Airport near Dharamsala, from where she was quickly driven to the picturesque McLeodGanj village, where the spiritual leader presently resides.

The Foreign Secretary met the Dalai … Read more : Nirupama Rao meets Dalai Lama.

PAF sending F-16 squadron for US air exercise

KARACHI – The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) would be sending one of its F-16 squadrons to the US for the multinational air exercise ‘Red Flag’, which is scheduled to begin on July 15.

A statement issued by the PAF said that Pakistani F-16’s would take part in the reputed exercise which would be attended by some …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : PAF sending F-16 squadron for US air exercise.

Motives of 10 Russian spies puzzles author John le Carre

WASHINGTON – John le Carre, the pen name of David Cornwell, who is the author of Cold War espionage novel has said that says he could not comprehend what the 10 Russian spies, deported from the United States this week, thought they were doing.

According to the CBS News, in commentary published on Saturday in ‘The … Read : Motives of 10 Russian spies puzzles author John le Carre.

Moily conferred ‘Next Step Foundation 2010??? award

NEW DELHI – Union Law and Justice Minister M Veerappa Moily has been conferred the ‘Next Step Foundation 2010′ award for his outstanding contribution to International Legal Co-operation.

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons, Nigel Evans, presented the prestigious award to Moily at a function organised at the House of Commons in London by … Read more >>>.

Pakistani spy arrested in Chandigarh

CHANDIGARH – The Punjab police arrested a 24-year-old Pakistani spy from Chandigarh’s sector 44 for sending vital informations from India to Pakistan.

The police said the arrested Pakistani spy named Kashif Ali, a resident of Faisalabad in Pakistan’s Punjab province, was staying for the last two-and-a-half years in Chandigarh, under the name of Pawan Kumar.

“Working …. Read the original article  : here.

Did the Battle of Britain begin over Orkney?

LONDON – The Battle of Britain began over Orkney Islands, an archipelago in northern Scotland, and not over the white cliffs of Dover, according to a Scottish historian.

Les Taylor, the author of Luftwaffe Over Scotland, claims a three-day attack in April 1940, when the German Luftwaffe targeted UK’s Royal Navy shipping off Orkney and … Read more >>>.

Kashmir protests India’s ‘internal matter’: US

WASHINGTON – While describing the current turbulence in Jammu and Kashmir as India’s ‘internal matter, the United States reiterated that it would continue supporting the efforts of both India and Pakistan to reduce the tension amidst them and resolve the long pending issues.

Interacting with reporters here, US State Department’s deputy spokesman Mark Tone said Washington …. Read the original article  : here.

Prince William ‘to marry Kate Middleton in private’

LONDON – Prince William is apparently planning to tie the knot with Kate Middleton in a ‘private’ family wedding.

According to sources, the prince wants the Queen’s permission to wed at the royals’ own personal church, St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle.

He wants to restrict media access to the ‘bare minimum’ with more emphasis …. Source  : Prince William ‘to marry Kate Middleton in private’.

Nepalese minor girl rescued in Mumbai

MUMBAI – The Mumbai police rescued 15-year-old Nepalese girl Pooja Sonar and seven other Nepalese boys from the clutches of the agents, who allured to send them to foreign countries for work.

The police have arrested a male agent named Farookh Khan and a female named Ayesha Khatoon in the case.

It has been reported that the … Read more >>.

World’s most expensive cocktail costs $1300 per glass!

MELBOURNE – A Mai Tai, served in Belfast’s The Merchant Hotel, has earned the distinction of being the World’s Most Expensive Cocktail.

The concoction comprises the same ingredients as the original, first poured in 1944 at Trader Vic’s, a South Seas-style bar-and-restaurant in Oakland, US.

Trader Vic’s founder, Victor Jules Bergeron Jr, narrated the origins of his … Read more >>.

Sri Lankan minister ends hunger strike outside UN office

LONDON – The construction minister of Sri Lanka, Wimal Weerawansa, who was on a fast unto death outside the United Nations office ended his protest after President Mahinda Rajapaksa visited him.

According to the BBC, the president took a glass of water, pressed it to the lips of the prostrate Weerawansa and made him sip.

The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sri Lankan minister ends hunger strike outside UN office.

Zardari rules out handing over “non-state” 26/11 perpetrators to India

BEIJING – While Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has ruled out handing over the accused November 2008 Mumbai terror attack “non state actors” to India, he remains only “hopeful” of bringing the perpetrators, who wrecked the relationship between both countries, to justice.

In an interview to a television channel on the last day of his …. Original article  : Zardari rules out handing over “non-state” 26/11 perpetrators to India.

Trendy and colourful ‘Silly Bandz’ a rage in UK

LONDON – They are stretchy, colourful and have even caught the fancy of Sarah Jessica Parker-the new ‘Silly Bandz’.

Made of colourful bits of silicone, Silly Bandz are set to become a huge craze for both kids and fashion-conscious Brits this summer.

Costing …. Source  : Trendy and colourful ‘Silly Bandz’ a rage in UK.

Man’s prosthetic leg set on fire after losing bet!

MELBOURNE – Losing a drinking game bet turned out to be rather too painful for a New Mexico man after he agreed to have his prosthetic leg set on fire.

According to The Daily Telegraph, the 47-year-old man and his friends had been drinking together and made a bet … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Man’s prosthetic leg set on fire after losing bet!.

Sarkozy faces French public on national TV amid scandal linked to heiress, shriveling support

Sarkozy faces French amid scandal tied to heiress

PARIS – French President Nicolas Sarkozy is going on national television amid a scandal involving the L’Oreal cosmetics fortune that has rocked his government.
The affair has helped diminish Sarkozy’s already low popularity, with barely a quarter of the population approving of his governance.
The multi-faceted scandal includes accusations by …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sarkozy faces French public on national TV amid scandal linked to heiress, shriveling support.

Uttar Pradesh Minister attacked in Allahabad

LUCKNOW – Uttar Pradesh’s Cabinet Minister Nand Gopal Gupta injured in an attack outside his residence in Allahabad on Monday.

Reportedly, a motorcycle parked outside his residence exploded as he stepped outside. Two security guards have been killed and three policemen also injured in the attack.

The 36- year old Nand Gopal Gupta, has been …. Original article  : Uttar Pradesh Minister attacked in Allahabad.

Taiwan leader seeks closer ties with mainland China

NEW DELHI – Taiwan leader Ma Ying-jeou has called for closer ties with mainland China following the signing of a historic trade pact by the two sides last month.

In a message sent to Hu Jintao, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the China Daily quoted Ma, as saying that this [..] Read the original article: here.

Karzai, UN square off over removing 50 ex-Taliban officials from blacklist

UNITED NATIONS – Afghan President Hamid Karzai plans to seek the removal of up to 50 former Taliban officials from a U.N. terrorism blacklist, in a gesture intended to advance political reconciliation talks with insurgents.

The Washington Post quoted a senior Afghan official as saying that Kabul has sought for years to delist former Taliban figures …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Karzai, UN square off over removing 50 ex-Taliban officials from blacklist.

Taliban militants destroy another girls’ school in FATA

ISLAMABAD – Taliban militants on Monday destroyed another girls school by detonating explosives in Sheikh Baba area of Bajaur tribal Agency of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA).

No casualty was reported, as the incident took place early in the morning.

So far, 89 schools have been destroyed in Bajaur, where insurgent Taliban … Original source on Gaea Times at : Taliban militants destroy another girls’ school in FATA.

International Fashion Week ends in Chennai

CHENNAI – South Indian actress Anupriya was the showstopper on the last day of the International Fashion Week in Chennai, walking down the ramp in a Victorian era designer gown.

The event, which began on July 7, showcased apparels designed by veterans as well as young talents.

During the five-day event, collections of designers like Rahul and …. Source article  : International Fashion Week ends in Chennai.

Pak hotel cleaner returns 50,000 dollars in cash left behind by Japanese guest

ISLAMABAD – A Pakistani hotel cleaner, Essa Khan, is being hailed as a national hero after he returned 50,000 dollars in cash left behind by a Japanese NGO worker.

Khan found the money in a bag, which was kept in the safe deposit box, while carrying out a routine inspection of the room before another guest …. Source article  : Pak hotel cleaner returns 50,000 dollars in cash left behind by Japanese guest.

Archaeologists uncover ‘biggest Roman canal’

LONDON – British archaeologists have discovered a canal built by the Romans at the ancient maritime port of Portus. The 90-metre-wide canal is one of the biggest ever built by the Romans.

According to the archaeologists, from the universities of Cambridge and Southampton and the British School at Rome, the canal connected Portus, on the coast … Original source on Gaea Times at : Archaeologists uncover ‘biggest Roman canal’.

Anti-drug outfit halts anti-price rise campaign in Manipur

IMPHAL – The All Manipur Anti-Drug Association (AMADA) has halted its anti-price rise campaign in Manipur after submitting a memorandum to Chief Minister O. Ibobi Singh.

The ‘Campaign for Survival’ was launched on July 8 with a demand for a price fixation committee to regulate prices of essential commodities and another demand to check crime on … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Anti-drug outfit halts anti-price rise campaign in Manipur.

Y.M.C.A will henceforth be reduced to just ‘Y’

NEW YORK – One of the most iconic non-profit organizations of the world is undergoing re-christening – from YMCA to just Y.

The change comes as a means of catching up with audience, to adopt them to Twitter, for instance.

“It’s a way of being warmer, more genuine, more welcoming, when you call yourself what everyone else …. Original source  : Y.M.C.A will henceforth be reduced to just ‘Y’.

40 young rare cobras killed in West Bengal village

NORTH DINAJPUR – Residents of Hemtabad village in West Bengal’s North Dinajpur District have claimed that they have killed around 40 young rare cobras.

The little cobras were found in a house. Villagers assumed that the snakes were in a hole under the house.

Out of both curiosity and panic, several people came to see the …. Read the original article  : 40 young rare cobras killed in West Bengal village.

Iran says it has produced 20kg of enriched uranium

LONDON – Iran has said it has produced around 20 kilograms of 20 per cent enriched uranium, in defiance of the world powers who want them to suspend the controversial nuclear work.

According to a report in The Telegraph, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad ordered the refining of uranium to 20 per cent after a swap deal, … Read : Iran says it has produced 20kg of enriched uranium.

Pakistani-American airline worker sues company over ‘Paki’ jibe

NEW YORK – A Pakistani-American airline engineer from Brooklyn is suing his company for allegedly letting co-workers call him a “bomb maker” and a “Paki”.

Jamil Akhtar said that he had complained to his bosses at North American Airlines that other employees ridiculed him with derogatory names, insulted his religion and threatened him.

His suit, filed in … Read : Pakistani-American airline worker sues company over ‘Paki’ jibe.

Canadian Mountie charged for killing wife active in Sikh community

EDMONTON – An Asian origin constable of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), has been charged with the murder of his wife, who was active in the Canadian Sikh community.

Constable Tarith Sehmbi, a 36-year-old Mountie with seven years of experience on the force, was charged Sunday with second-degree murder in the slaying of his wife. … Original article on : Canadian Mountie charged for killing wife active in Sikh community.

Children of deported Russian spies to rejoin parents

LONDON – Children of the 10 Russian spies deported in a swap with Moscow have also been sent to Russia.

“The children have all been repatriated. We did so consistent with what their parents’ wishes were,” The Telegraph quoted Eric Holder, US Attorney General, as saying.

Holder confirmed that some of the children were US citizens as … Read : Children of deported Russian spies to rejoin parents.

Sensex touches 18,000 points in early morning trade

MUMBAI – The Bombay Stock Exchange’s Sensex touched a high of 18010.07 and low of 17875.97 on Monday morning.

BSE Midcap Index was up 0.30 per cent and BSE Smallcap Index moved 0.65 per cent higher.

At the initial trading hours among the commodity stocks, metal stocks made smart gains.

Market was positive on the BSE …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sensex touches 18,000 points in early morning trade.

Family planning still taboo in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Unplanned pregnancies are on the rise in Pakistan with the number of abortions coming up to 900,000 cases every year, even as the majority of Pakistani people say they feel embarrassed to ask questions on family planning.

The Pakistan government had started a special campaign of “Two children, happy family” almost two decades …. Original article  : Family planning still taboo in Pakistan.

Muslim Australians disappointed with media for depicting them as terrorists

CANBERRA – A report of the ‘Department of Immigration and Citizenship’ has revealed that Muslim families have good relations with other Australians, and feel safe and happy in the country, but they are furious with the media for depicting Muslims as terrorists and criminals.

“The families felt strongly the media were gunning for Muslims; it was … Original article on : Muslim Australians disappointed with media for depicting them as terrorists.

Official: President Karzai apologizes to Britain after Afghan forces kill 3 troops

Afghan forces reportedly kill 3 UK troops
KABUL, Afghanistan – A NATO official says Afghan President Hamid Karzai has offered condolences and an apology amid reports that Afghan forces killed three British troops in the south.

An investigation is under way and details of Tuesday’s incident remain unclear.
The international force earlier said that three of its service …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Life on earth suffers catastrophic extinctions every 27 million years, claim researchers

LONDON – A recent research paper published in the journal Solar and Stellar Astrophysics, has suggested that life on earth suffers catastrophic extinctions every 27 million years.

According to The Telegraph, Adrian Melott, an astrophysicist at the University of Kansas, and Richard Bambach, a palaeontologist at the Smithsonian Institute have said that for at least … Read : Life on earth suffers catastrophic extinctions every 27 million years, claim researchers.

Michigan mom jailed for 9 years for sex with son

MELBOURNE – A Michigan woman has been sentenced to 9 years in jail for having sex with her 14-year-old son.

Aimee Louise Sword, 36, from Waterford Township, had given up the boy for adoption when he was a few days old.

She also received an update from his adoptive family, including a photograph, each year but not [..] Read the original article: here.

Kiwi women find their happiness in family, men in freedom: Survey

WELLINGTON – Kiwi women seem to find their happiness amongst their families, while happiness for men means freedom, says a new survey.

The survey conducted by Synovate found that eighty-two per cent of females gain the most happiness from their family while men prefer their freedom (36 per cent) and time to pursue their leisure activities …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kiwi women find their happiness in family, men in freedom: Survey.

Pak ‘Kari’ woman publicly thrashed, threatened with death by husband, brother

KARACHI – In an incident which reveals the deplorable plight of females in Pakistan, a woman, who was declared a ‘Kari’ by her husband, was publicly thrashed and threatened to be killed by her brother and spouse in Larkana, Sindh.

According to reports, Hafeezan Bhutto, 30, was forcibly taken into a vehicle by her husband Hajjan … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pak ‘Kari’ woman publicly thrashed, threatened with death by husband, brother.

Illegal mining: Karnataka CM unfazed by opposition protests

BANGALORE – Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa on Tuesday said he was unfazed by the opposition protest to the illegal mining issue, and ruled out a CBI probe against the mining magnates Reddy brothers.

Speaking to reporters here, he said the opposition has marred the sanctity of the Assembly by staging such gimmicks.

“We … Read : Illegal mining: Karnataka CM unfazed by opposition protests.

Karnataka Governor urges Centre to intervene in illegal mining issue

BANGALORE – Karnataka Governor H R Bharadwaj on Tuesday met President Pratibha Devisingh Patil and briefed her about the ongoing opposition protest over the illegal mining issue.

Governor Bharadwaj and his wife met the President over breakfast, Rashtrapati Bhavan sources said.

Bharadwaj is slated to meet Home Minister P Chidambaram and has reportedly petitioned the Centre … Original source on Gaea Times at : Karnataka Governor urges Centre to intervene in illegal mining issue.

Liquidity will be comfortable by July end: SBI chief

MUMBAI – Om Prakash Bhatt, the Chairman of the State Bank of India, the country’s largest bank financial institution, has said that the cash crunch in the banking system should begin to ease by the end of July.

Bhatt, who is also the Chairman of Indian Banks Association, said this while interacting with the media persons [..] Read the original article: here.

IEA sees global oil demand up next year even as rich country demand shrinks

Global oil demand seen rising slightly in 2011

PARIS – The International Energy Agency says world oil demand will rise next year despite a drop in rich countries, where efficiency savings and fuel substitution should outweigh a boost from faster economic growth.
The Paris-based agency on Tuesday said global oil demand for 2011 should rise by a … Read more >>.

NATO: 3 international troops killed in southern Afghanistan

NATO: 3 international troops die in S. Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – NATO says three international service members have been killed in an attack by insurgents in southern Afghanistan.
NATO announced their deaths on Tuesday, but did not disclose the nationalities of the service members who died.
Their deaths bring to 36 the number of U.S. and other NATO …. Source article  : NATO: 3 international troops killed in southern Afghanistan.

Unexploded suicide vests found at another site in Uganda, official says

Unexploded suicide vests found at Uganda site

KAMPALA, Uganda – Investigators found several unexploded suicide vests in a disco hall in Uganda’s capital, suggesting that al-Shabab militants planned to carry out more attacks, a government official said Tuesday.
The find in a suburb of Kampala on Monday was consistent with what was seen at the two blast …. Original article  : Unexploded suicide vests found at another site in Uganda, official says.

Wild Life Woes In Gulf

GULF OF MEXICO (GaeaTimes.com)- It is quite well known that how the the Gulf oil spill has taken its toll on the wild life in Louisiana and other coastal regions of the USA over the last few months. The images of the poor oil soaked birds have shocked the people as well as marine …. Read the original article  : Wild Life Woes In Gulf.

Greater Noida Authority Plans Hot Air Balloon Ride

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Greater Noida Authority is planning to cash in huge for the upcoming Commonwealth games. Reportedly, Greater Noida Authority has plans in store to launch a hot balloon ride on the eve of Commonwealth games which is to be held at the national capital territory of Delhi.
If all goes well with the plan, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Greater Noida Authority Plans Hot Air Balloon Ride.

Osama Bin Laden’s ‘family’ hit by love affair epidemic

LONDON – In a weird twist, the surrogate mother of Osama’s grandchild has fallen in love with a relative of the al-Qaeda leader.

Louise Pollard, who is carrying a child for Osama’s son Omar, 29, and wife Jane Felix Browne, 54, fell for Jane’s son Vincent.

Vincent Lomas, 31, and she met in Qatar when he flew …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pak Punjab police arrests 90 terror suspects in raids across province

LAHORE – Pakistan law enforcement agencies have arrested over 90 terror suspects having links with various banned extremist groups in a crack down across different districts of Punjab Province, which has witnessed several deadly terror strikes in the recent past.

According to reports, acting on directives of the Interior Ministry, the Punjab police launched a massive … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pak Punjab police arrests 90 terror suspects in raids across province.

Malik blames Afghan extremists for Mohmand suicide attack

LONDON – Blaming Afghan militants for last week’s deadly suicide attack in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas’ (FATA) Mohmand District, which killed more than 100 people, Pakistan Interior Minister Rehman Malik has blamed NATO and Afghanistan forces of not doing enough to prevent extremists from crossing over to the country.

Malik said that he has intelligence … Read more : Malik blames Afghan extremists for Mohmand suicide attack.

Obama, Clinton condemn Uganda bomb blast

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton have both condemned Sunday’s bomb attack in Uganda that claimed 74 lives.

In a message issued on behalf President Obama, Mike Hammer, NSC Spokesman,said: “The president is deeply saddened by the loss of life resulting from these deplorable and cowardly attacks, and sends his … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Obama, Clinton condemn Uganda bomb blast.

Sikh cabbie in Australia avoids jail sentence over sex assault charges

BRISBANE – A Sikh taxi driver, who covered his in-car CCTV camera before sexually assaulting a drunken teen, has narrowly escaped serving time in prison.

Harmeet Singh, 34, pleaded guilty in the District Court in Brisbane today to committing sexual assault on November 14 last year, The Courier Mail reports.

The court was told that Singh … Read : Sikh cabbie in Australia avoids jail sentence over sex assault charges.

Heavy rainfall disrupts life in Delhi, 11 killed

NEW DELHI – At least 11 people have been killed in New Dlhi on Monday due to heavy rainfall. The city recorded 51.4mm of rainfall. The downpour began at 5:30 and continued for almost three hours.

The rains paralyze the parts of New Delhi on Monday. Six people died of electric shock, while another five, …. Original source  : Heavy rainfall disrupts life in Delhi, 11 killed.

Lord Nelson’s letter reveals his desperation to fight the French

LONDON – A letter that was written by Lord Nelson four days before Trafalgar, has revealed his desperation to fight the French.

In the letter, which was sent from flagship HMS Victory to the Gibraltar governor, Nelson wrote that he was fed-up waiting at sea for the enemy fleet to come out of its bolthole in …. Read the original article  : here.

From Tennessee to Jharkhand, a band empowers voiceless

NEW DELHI – Belting out groove rock, country-style soul ballads and native folk music, the American band UnNamed Servant lends a voice to people on the fringes, from Tennessee to Jharkhand. On a month-long tour of India, its members say they believe in Mahatma Gandhi’s “ideology of ahimsa”.

“Last year, we had played live at a … Original source on Gaea Times at : From Tennessee to Jharkhand, a band empowers voiceless.

Culling feral animals that fart could restrain carbon emissions: Oz experts

MELBOURNE – An environmental group have suggested that culling the feral animals that burp and fart their way around Australia’s outback could eliminate billions of tonnes of carbon emissions.

According to a study commissioned by the Nature Conservancy and the Pew Environment Group, 9.7 billion tonnes …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Female Chinese students more open toward sex: Study

WASHINGTON – More than half of female graduate students in Shanghai have an understanding attitude toward other girls who are kept as lovers by rich men or who work at night clubs, a new research has found.

The Journalism School of Fudan University conducted the study in June …. Source  : Female Chinese students more open toward sex: Study.

Iranian nuke scientist claims CIA abducted him

WASHINGTON -Iranian nuclear scientist Shahram Amiri has claimed that he was kidnapped by the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) last year.

“My abduction is a detailed story. I think I will be unable to get into details during this limited period of time and I will postpone it to when I am hopefully in my dear … Read more : Iranian nuke scientist claims CIA abducted him.

Afghanistan will be in throes of Taliban tyranny if US pulls out early: NATO

LONDON – While the United States, Britain and other allied countries are planning to pull out from Afghanistan in two to three years time, NATO secretary general Anders Fogh Rasmussen has warned that such a move could prove catastrophic, with the Taliban very quickly likely to bring the entire country under it tyrannical rule.

During a …. Read the original article  : Afghanistan will be in throes of Taliban tyranny if US pulls out early: NATO.

Khrushchev’s great-granddaughter says Russian spy had ‘unhappy personality’

NEW YORK – Former Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev’s great granddaughter has described convicted spy Richard Murphy as being “an incredibly unhappy Russian personality”.

Nina Khrushcheva, who teaches media and culture at The New School in New York City, was quoted by The Telegraph, as saying:

“I was always puzzled by the inconsistency between a completely American name …. Read the original article  : Khrushchev’s great-granddaughter says Russian spy had ‘unhappy personality’.

Indian student from Hyderabad shot dead in US

WASHINGTON – An Indian student pursuing his masters in the United States was shot dead by unidentified assailants in a grocery store at Bridgeport in Connecticut.

A native of Hyderabad, Arun Kumar Narote, who was working as a part-time clerk at a grocery store in Bridgeport, was shot Monday night.

According to police, two masked men walked …. Read the original article  : Indian student from Hyderabad shot dead in US.

24 dead, 35 missing in landslides in China

NEW DELHI – At least 24 persons have been killed and 35 have been declared missing after a rain-triggered landslide hit Xiaohe Township in China’s Yunnan province on Tuesday.

Reports from Kunming said that the landslides slammed into three mountain hamlets in western China early on Tuesday.

The missing included pupils and teachers, Wang Zhaode, director … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 24 dead, 35 missing in landslides in China.

Why good luck charms perk up performance?

LONDON – Don’t scoff at those lucky stones. New research shows that having some kind of lucky token can actually improve your performance – by increasing your self-confidence.

“I watch a lot of sports and I noticed that very often athletes – also famous athletes – hold superstitions,” says Lysann Damisch of University of Cologne, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Why good luck charms perk up performance?.

Most Brits says burqa ban is not anti-Muslim

LONDON – A majority of people in Britain have welcomed the French decision to ban the wearing of the burqa in public, and said it is not an anti-Muslim act.

The Daily Star quoted teaching assistant Diana Phillips, 42, from Harborne, Birmingham, as saying: “It’s not the French saying they are anti- Muslim. I’m sure there’s … Original article on : Most Brits says burqa ban is not anti-Muslim.

Three in four Americans say economic recession will last another two years

NEW YORK – A majority of Americans believe recession will linger on for years.

According to a new CBS News poll, three in four Americans say the effects of the recession will last another two years or more.

More than eight in 10 say the condition of the economy is bad, up five points from last … Original source on Gaea Times at : Three in four Americans say economic recession will last another two years.

Robert Kennedy Jr. ‘files for divorce from wife of 16 years’

TORONTO – Robert Kennedy Jr. has reportedly filed for divorce from his wife of 16 years.

A New York newspaper is reporting that the son of former Democratic senator Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of former president John F. Kennedy filed divorce papers May 12 – three days before his wife was charged with drunk driving.

The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Robert Kennedy Jr. ‘files for divorce from wife of 16 years’.

Pak asks India to send officials who recorded Kasab’s statements to testify

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has asked India to send the police officials and the magistrate who had recorded the statements of lone surviving 26/11 gunman Ajmal Amir Kasab to testify his records.

According to reports, Interior Minister Rehman Malik met Indian High Commissioner Sharat Sabharwal here and put forth the demand of sending the officials to … Read more »»».

Indian officials say chlorine leak sickens at least 92 in Mumbai

Chlorine leak sickens 92 in India
MUMBAI, India – At least 92 people were sickened, eight of them critically, when they inhaled chlorine that leaked from a cylinder in an industrial part of India’s business capital Mumbai, officials said Wednesday.

The leak took place just before dawn in the Sewri area of Mumbai, where a busy port …. Original article  : Indian officials say chlorine leak sickens at least 92 in Mumbai.

Create a unified command for anti-Naxal operations, Chidambaram urges CM’s

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Wednesday requested the state governments of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Orissa and West Bengal to create a unified command for anti-Naxal operations.

Addressing the meeting of chief ministers of Naxal-infested states called by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here, Chidambaram said: “Government will sanction additional SPOs (Special Police Officers) to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Create a unified command for anti-Naxal operations, Chidambaram urges CM’s.

Women ‘more stressed than men Down Under’

MELBOURNE – In Australia, women are more stressed than the male population, a poll has found.

The Newspoll commissioned by Lifeline found overall that 46 per cent of women and 41 per cent of men report feeling ‘very stressed’ in their everyday lives.

At the other end of the scale, the poll found only 9 per cent … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Women ‘more stressed than men Down Under’.

Obama compared to Hitler, Lenin in Tea Party billboard

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has been compared to Adolf Hitler and Vladimir Lenin in a roadside billboard created by a branch of the Tea Party in Iowa.

According to The Telegraph, the North Iowa Tea Party began displaying the sign in Mason City last week. It shows photographs of Obama, the German Nazi … Original article on : Obama compared to Hitler, Lenin in Tea Party billboard.

Maoists, Salwa Judum activists engage in gun battle in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Maoists and Salwa Judum activists were engaged in a heavy gun battle on Tuesday night.

According to official sources, there has been no casualty reported.

Following the incident, CRPF and police camps in the district have been put on high alert. (ANI)
… Read more : Maoists, Salwa Judum activists engage in gun battle in Chhattisgarh.

Western ranchers in some remote areas replacing windmills with solar-powered water pumps

Solar wells displacing windmills on Western range

ALCOVA, Wyo. – A new breed of renewable technology is displacing the iconic windmills that have pumped well water on American rangeland for more than a century.
An increasing number of Western ranchers are pulling down their old windmills and converting to solar-powered systems to pump well water for livestock …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Western ranchers in some remote areas replacing windmills with solar-powered water pumps.

Senior Balochistan National Party leader killed in Quetta

ISLAMABAD – A senior leader of the Balochistan National Party (BNP) Habib Jalib was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in Quetta on Wednesday morning.

According to reports, a couple of unknown gunmen on a motorcycle fired at Jalib, who was BNP’s secretary general, outside his residence situated in Musa Colony of the provincial capital.

Jalib was rushed … Read more : Senior Balochistan National Party leader killed in Quetta.

48 years after death, soldier’s remains consigned to flames

AGOCHAR – Forty-eight years after an unsung soldier of the Indian Army was killed in the Sino-Indian war, his mortal remains – found in Arunachal Pradesh this month – were consigned to flames with military honours in this village Thursday.

“The remains of sepoy (soldier) Karam Chand of 4 Dogra Regiment were consigned to the flames … Original source on Gaea Times at : 48 years after death, soldier’s remains consigned to flames.

Tropical depression is moving across the Pacific off Mexico’s coast, is poorly organized

Tropical depression moving across Pacific
MIAMI – A poorly organized tropical depression is moving across the Pacific off the coast of Mexico and is not a threat to any land.

The National Hurricane Center in Miami says the depression has maximum sustained winds near 35 mph (55 kph) and is expected to strengthen slightly over the next … Read more >>.

Somali militant leader threatens more attacks on Uganda, thanks militants for World Cup blasts

Al-Shabab leader threatens more Uganda attacks

MOGADISHU, Somalia – The leader of the al-Qaida-linked Somali militant group that claimed responsibility for twin bombings in Uganda during the World Cup final is threatening further attacks.
The leader of al-Shabab – Sheik Muktar Abu Zubayr – also thanked the militants who carried out Sunday’s twin bombings in Uganda. The … Read more : Somali militant leader threatens more attacks on Uganda, thanks militants for World Cup blasts.

US mulling over terror designation for Gaza ‘Aid’ Ship funder

WASHINGTON – The US State Department is considering a move to designate the Turkish Muslim charity that funded and operated a Gaza-bound “aid” ship as a foreign terrorist organization, after nine people were killed aboard one …. Source article  : US mulling over terror designation for Gaza ‘Aid’ Ship funder.

Billboard comparing Obama to Hitler, Lenin removed

NEW YORK – A billboard designed by the North Iowa unit of the Tea Party comparing President Barack Obama to Nazi dictator Adolph Hitler and Russian Revolution leader Vladimir Lenin, has been covered after attracting sharp criticism.

Reacting to harsh criticism, an Iowa … Read : Billboard comparing Obama to Hitler, Lenin removed.

How Bristol, Levi Johnston kept their relationship a secret from Sarah Palin

WASHINGTON – After the announcement of Sarah Palin’s daughter Bristol and Levi Johnston’s engagement, it has emerged that the couple went to great lengths to keep their relationship a secret from the former vice … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : How Bristol, Levi Johnston kept their relationship a secret from Sarah Palin.

NASA outreach program confirmed despite White House denial

WASHINGTON – The White House is disavowing a plan to have NASA conduct outreach to Muslim countries, but a congressman who talked to NASA Administrator Charles Bolden about that plan last month said the initiative was very real until somebody slammed … Read more >>.

Microbloggers fear services will be suspended in China

NEW DELHI – Chinese microbloggers are concerned about such services being suspended in the country after a series of glitches in the last two days disrupted their popular Twitter-like social-networking tools.

However, Liu Qi, vice-general manager of Sina’s marketing department, said it is unnecessary for …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Microbloggers fear services will be suspended in China.

Indian Rupee gets its new symbol

NEW DELHI – The Union Cabinet on Thursday selected the symbol for rupee, which is an amalgamation of the Devanagri ‘Ra’ and the Roman ‘R’ without the stem.

Addressing press conference here, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ambika Soni said: “The symbol, designed by an Indian Institute of Technology … Read more >>>.

Clinton to visit Islamabad for ‘most vital’ security talks: Holbrooke

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton would hold ‘most vital’ high-level security talks in Islamabad before landing in Kabul for the donors conference scheduled to be held on July 20, America’s special representative to Afghanistan and Pakistan …. Source  : Clinton to visit Islamabad for ‘most vital’ security talks: Holbrooke.

China facing worst flood threat in 12 years

NEW DELHI – China is facing is worst flood threat since the one in 1998 that killed thousands of people.

“Although the current situation along the Yangtze River has yet to reach the danger level, it is definitely at a crucial point,” the China Daily quoted Wang Jingquan, director … Read : China facing worst flood threat in 12 years.

BP faces Lockerbie accusations amid delays over oil cap tests

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has pledged to look into demands from a group of senators for an investigation into charges that BP lobbied for the release of the Lockerbie bomber Abdelbaset Al-Megrahi as part of an oil-for-terrorist deal.

According to The Guardian, the oil company faces the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BP faces Lockerbie accusations amid delays over oil cap tests.

Jaipur district encounters water shortage

JAIPUR – Due to lack of rain in Rajashthan locals in Jaipur and nearby villages are complaining about the shortage of water and the hardships they have to bear to acquire it, for their daily needs.he people have to wait for hours to get their water supply from tankers.

“A person …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Jaipur district encounters water shortage.

US networks CBS and NBC reject controversial ‘9/11 mosque’ ad

WASHINGTON – Two US TV networks have refused to air a controversial advertisement condemning plans to build a mosque near the site of the 9/11 terror attacks in New York.

The National Republican Trust, a conservative group not affiliated … Read : US networks CBS and NBC reject controversial ‘9/11 mosque’ ad.

Osama’s son claims he is still alive and loves him very much

LONDON – Omar bin Laden, one of the sons of Al Qaeda mastermind Osama bin Laden has said that he believes his father is still alive, and that he still loves him in spite of his links to various terror-related tragedies around the world.

“My dad … Original source on Gaea Times at : Osama’s son claims he is still alive and loves him very much.

Body of Indian soldier killed in 1962 war with China brought to his hometown

SHIMLA – The body of Karam Chand Katoch, of Dogra Regiment, was brought to his hometown Palampur, Himachal Pradesh on Wednesday. He was killed in the 1962 war with China.

The Indian Army officials identified Katoch’s body and handed it over to his family members in Agojar village near Palampur. “I feel …. Source  : Body of Indian soldier killed in 1962 war with China brought to his hometown.

Powerful blast rips apart 100-year-old mosque, shrines in FATA

ISLAMABAD – A powerful blast ripped apart a mosque and some other shrines in Landi Kotal tehsil of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas’(FATA) Khyber Agency on Thursday morning.

According to reports, some unidentified miscreants triggered the blast destroying the Masjid-e-Ishkhel, besides ruining some …. Original source  : Powerful blast rips apart 100-year-old mosque, shrines in FATA.

Failed NY bomber wanted to take revenge for Afghan war, reveals video

DUBAI – Confessed Times Square bomb plotter Faisal Shahzad had planned the May 1 terror strike to take revenge from the US for waging war against Afghanistan, a video released by a television channel has revealed.

The video aired by the Al-Arabiya television channel is said to have been recorded by … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Failed NY bomber wanted to take revenge for Afghan war, reveals video.

China jet makes emergency landing amid bomb scare

LANZHOU – A passenger jet flying from China’s restive Xinjiang region to the country’s south made an emergency landing on Wednesday night following warnings of a possible bomb aboard.

According to officials with the Gansu provincial public security bureau, China Southern … Read this article on Gaea Times at : China jet makes emergency landing amid bomb scare.

US paid Iran nuke scientist 5 million dollars for aid to CIA

LONDON – Iranian nuclear scientist Shahram Amiri, who claimed to have been abducted by the CIA before departing for his homeland Wednesday, was paid over five million dollars by the agency to provide intelligence on Iran’s nuclear program, U.S. officials have claimed.

Shahram Amiri is not obligated to return the … Read : US paid Iran nuke scientist 5 million dollars for aid to CIA.

Brit Man fined ???50 for dropping matchstick burning his finger

LONDON – A Brit man was fined 50 pounds for dropping a match that was burning his finger.

Kenneth Bonnar, 68, was waiting to collect his great-granddaughter Shannon from primary school when he lit up his pipe.

But a council warden spotted the burning match fall to the ground and collared Kenneth as he walked away with …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Brit Man fined ???50 for dropping matchstick burning his finger.

Chelsea Clinton and mum spill no beans on wedding details

NEW YORK – Chelsea Clinton’s wedding is just round the corner but neither the bride nor her mother Hillary Clinton, are dishing out many details on the marriage in upstate Rhinebeck.

Although, Chelsea Clinton has told her dad, former President Bill Clinton, to lose 15 pounds before her wedding.

And Secret Service agents already are swarming …. Original source  : Chelsea Clinton and mum spill no beans on wedding details.

Iranian nuclear scientist suspected to be CIA agent

WASHINGTON – The Iranian nuclear scientist Shahram Amiri who says he was abducted a year ago by United States agents was an informant for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) inside Iran for several years, providing information about the country’s nuclear program, according to the U.S. officials.

According to the New York Times, officials have said that … Original source on Gaea Times at : Iranian nuclear scientist suspected to be CIA agent.

Krishna expresses satisfaction with Pakistan visit

ISLAMABAD – Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna on Friday expressed satisfaction over his visit to Islamabad for talks with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi.

Krishna, who was in the Pakistan capital on a three-day visit, told ANI: “Yes, I came here with a single purpose of making an earnest effort to reduce the trust [..] Read the original article: here.

Devotees attend consecration of Sri Sai Baba in Chennai

MAYLAPORE – Thousands of devotees attended the Maha Kumbhabhishekam, or consecration, of Hindu saint Sri Sai Baba.

The celebrations began on Sunday and concluded on Thursday t the Sri Sai Baba temple in Mylapore.

The temple, also known as ‘Shirdi of the South’, saw many devotees from all over the country pay a visit to the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Curfew clamped in some parts of Kashmir Valley

SRINAGAR – Curfew was clamped in some areas of Kashmir Valley on Friday

ahead of a proposed march by separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani and his supporters.

Curfew was clamped in the Handwara and Baramulla areas of north Kashmir and Ganderbal on the outskirts of the city.

Restrictions were in place in almost all other parts of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Best way to lose weight is to lose it fast, finds surprising study

MELBOURNE – A recent study has revealed that the best way to lose fat is to lose it fast, according to a researcher of the University of Melbourne.

Dietician Katrina Purcell presented a study to an international obesity conference in Stockholm that proved that the best way to lose weight is to lose it fast instead … Original article on : Best way to lose weight is to lose it fast, finds surprising study.

Krishna refuses to comment on Pillai remarks

ISLAMABAD – Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna on Friday refused to offer a comment on a media view that he had failed to defend Union Home Secretary G.K. Pillai soon after his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi had criticized the official for a statement on the ISI’s purported role in the 26/11 attack.

Asked by …. Read the original article  : Krishna refuses to comment on Pillai remarks.

Krishna, Qureshi meeting would benefit region: US

WASHINGTON – Welcoming the renewed efforts from India and Pakistan to come to the discussion table inorder to resolve pending contentious issues between them, the United States has described the meeting between External Affairs Minister S M Krishna with his Pakistan counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi as the one which would benefit the region.

“We certainly welcome … Original article on : Krishna, Qureshi meeting would benefit region: US.

Press conference was not acrimonious: Krishna

ISLAMABAD – Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna on Friday sought to play down reports of Thursday’s joint press conference with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi as being acrimonious.

When asked by ANI whether he saw the press conference as being full of acrimony, Krishna said: “I don’t think so. The acrimony was not by … Original source on Gaea Times at : Press conference was not acrimonious: Krishna.

The Last Supper Unveiled In Kolkata

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Johann Zofanny’s “The Last Supper” which is considered to be one of the most prized possessions of the artist was restored back to Kolkata. Reportedly, “The Last Supper” is currently unveiled and is on display for the general public in St. John’s Church.
“The Last Supper” measures 10×12 ft and is regarded to … Read more >>.

Indian Railways Plans To Woo Customers

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Indian Railway is trying to woo the elite passengers in various ways and it is not limited to offering more trains and superfast trains in various routes. It is planning to offer the passengers on long distance and elite trains a new in house magazine. The plan has got … Read : Indian Railways Plans To Woo Customers.

Woman who streaked at Woods’ 2000 St Andrews threatens to do it again

LONDON – A Scottish woman, who was slammed by Tiger Woods for ruining his first Open win at St Andrews by streaking, has threatened to bare all again.

Jacqui Salmond, 30, had famously danced naked on the 18th green as Woods, 34, clinched victory at the Old Course in 2000.

The golfer blamed the lapdancer for spoiling …. Read the original article  : Woman who streaked at Woods’ 2000 St Andrews threatens to do it again.

China to shut down 122 blogs, pornographic sites

BEIJING – As part of China’s crackdown on pornography, the General Administration of Press and Publication (GAPP) has demanded the shutting down of 122 websites, which offer online reading and downloading services of fiction with lewd and pornographic content.

According to Xinhua, a GAPP official warned that websites, which fail to comply with the norms, would … Original source on Gaea Times at : China to shut down 122 blogs, pornographic sites.

Pak leaders showcasing India as ‘enemy’ to Afghanistan: US

WASHINGTON – While acknowledging the complexity of the Afghan conflict, a top US Senator has said that in order to counter India’s role in the war ravaged country, many Pakistani leaders are trying to showcase New Delhi as Kabul’s enemy.

Addressing the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Richard Lugar noted that the Pakistani leadership is constantly … Original article on : Pak leaders showcasing India as ‘enemy’ to Afghanistan: US.

Resolving ‘complicated’ India-Pak-Afghan issue key to regional stability: Kerry

WASHINGTON – An influential US lawmaker has highlighted that addressing the complicated issues between India, Pakistan and Afghanistan would be the most effective answer to the problems existing in that region.

Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee John Kerry said that the years old complications between the three South Asian countries had to be sorted …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Resolving ‘complicated’ India-Pak-Afghan issue key to regional stability: Kerry.

Krishna to offer chaddar at Lahore’s Data Gunj Baksh shrine

ISLAMABAD – Indian External Affairs Minister S.M.Krishna will offer a chaddar at the Data Gunj Baksh shrine in Lahore via Punjab Chief MInister Shahbaz Sharif, whom he will meet shortly.

Mr.Krishna will meet with Mr.Sharif at the Punjab House in Islamabad.

Since he is leaving for New Delhi shortly, Mr. Krishna would not be able [..] Read the original article: here.

Nuke scientist may not have wanted to come out of Iran: CIA

LONDON – Despite the seeming suddenness of Iranian nuclear scientist Shahram Amiri’s decision to return to Iran after years working as a CIA asset and more than a year of resettlement in the US, the CIA began to sense he may not have wanted to come out of Iran after all, despite the offer of …. Original source  : Nuke scientist may not have wanted to come out of Iran: CIA.

Indians immigrants boosting technological innovation in US

WASHINGTON – Indians immigrants are boosting technological innovation in the United States, according to a study published by William Kerr of the Harvard Business School and William Lincoln of the University of Michigan.

According to the study, which appears in the Journal of Labor Economics, the number of U.S. patent applications filed by people with … Original source on Gaea Times at : Indians immigrants boosting technological innovation in US.

Indian Railways Reconsidering Free Travel Scheme

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The railway employees in India presently enjoy free rides to any destination in the country during their jobs and even after their retirement. However, this free ride may not be available for them anymore. The Cabinet is going to take a decision shortly whether this facility will be valid for …. Source  : Indian Railways Reconsidering Free Travel Scheme.

Bite Of Seattle Pulls In Foodies

SEATTLE (GaeaTimes.com)- Seattle residents have a lot to look forward throughout the ongoing weekend as the highly popular ‘Bite of Seattle‘ returns to the Seattle Center. The event is highly anticipated by the foodies as it offer fantastic offers on food and drinks. The event will also be a great opportunity for singles as …. Read the original article  : here.

From mountaintop to seashore: first family in packed Maine vacation weekend

Obamas continue busy Maine holiday
BAR HARBOR, Maine – President Barack Obama and his family have more activities planned in an already packed weekend on the coast of Maine.
The president, his wife Michelle and daughters Malia and Sasha arrived Friday at the Bar Harbor airport and within the hour were biking on a trail … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : From mountaintop to seashore: first family in packed Maine vacation weekend.

Teenage Dutch sailor’s mother drops opposition to her planned round-the-world voyage

Dutch teenage sailor gets green light from mother

THE HAGUE, Netherlands – The mother of a 14-year-old Dutch girl who wants to sail solo around the world said in an open letter published Saturday she has given up her opposition to her daughter’s planned trip.
Laura Dekker’s dream of becoming the youngest person to sail alone around …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Teenage Dutch sailor’s mother drops opposition to her planned round-the-world voyage.

Brazilian model with world’s biggest breasts fears 38KKK boobs will kill her

LONDON – A Brazilian model with world’s biggest breasts has revealed that she fears her 38KKK boobs will kill her if they are not removed.

Sheyla Hershey, 30, was struck down by a potentially fatal infection during an op on her 38KKK implants.

“Surgeons say there’s an 80 percent chance I can keep one, but if … Read more >>.

Iran accuses US, UK of backing Sunni group behind mosque attacks

LONDON – Iran has accused the United States and Britain for supporting Jundullah, the Sunni separatist group, which behind the twin blasts that killed 28 and injured 167 people at a mosque in Zahedan.

According to The Guardian, Iran alleged that “hardline Wahabis and Salafis trained by the CIA in Pakistan” were behind the bombings. Iran … Read : Iran accuses US, UK of backing Sunni group behind mosque attacks.

India, Pak should learn neighbourliness from European countries: MQM chief

KARACHI – Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain has urged both India and Pakistan to take lessons from European countries, who have realised that neighbours can not be changed, and talks were the only available option to resolve all outstanding issues.

Speaking during a function here, Hussain said that despite the talks between Indian …. Read the original article  : India, Pak should learn neighbourliness from European countries: MQM chief.

Spanish govt to ban sex ads from national newspapers

LONDON – The Spanish government has announced that it wants to ban adverts offering sexual services from national newspapers.

President Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero said during a state of the nation speech that the ban is part of a strategy to fight people trafficking and sexual exploitation that was rife in the country.

“As long as these … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Spanish govt to ban sex ads from national newspapers.

Former Cabinet Secretariat official dead

NEW DELHI – Victor Longer, a retired official of the Cabinet Secretariat, who played a pioneering role in developing defence information in the country and supported communication efforts during the India-Pakistan War of 1971, died here on Saturday. He was 92.

Longer was the author of many books on the Indian defence forces, the most notable …. Read the original article  : Former Cabinet Secretariat official dead.

Geishas serve beer instead of green tea as recession hits Japan

LONDON – Geishas have turned to serving customers beer instead of the customary green tea because of the economic downturn in Japan.

The beautiful kimono-clad women, who serve green tea, recite poetry and play classical instruments, have now turned to serving customers beer for 4 pounds.

The slump in the global economy has forced them to …. Read the original article  : Geishas serve beer instead of green tea as recession hits Japan.

Chennai students form a human design of new Indian currency symbol

CHENNAI – Students of Everwin Matriculation Higher Secondary School in Chennai formed a human design of the new graphic symbol of Indian currency on Friday.

Around 2010 students of the school participated in the exercise, which was mooted by the commerce students of the school.

“We have 2010 students from sixth to twelfth standard. All the … Read more : Chennai students form a human design of new Indian currency symbol.

Captive breeding of Seahorses in Chennai

CHENNAI – Sea horses (marine species) are the latest attraction of the marine aquarium at the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) premises in Santhome in Chennai.

Through the Techniques of captive breeding ZSI is making efforts to protect and increase the population of these rare species in an environment, which is identical to their natural eco …. Read the original article  : Captive breeding of Seahorses in Chennai.

Commonwealth Games: Queen’s Baton reaches Sikkim

RANGPO – The Queen’s Baton Relay for the 2010 Commonwealth Games (CWG) reached Sikkim state on Friday.

Officials of the Sikkim Olympic Association received the Baton at Rangpo border check post.

“Well, it is a proud movement for Sikkim. We are very happy that it is being brought to state of Sikkim. All possible arrangements have …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Commonwealth Games: Queen’s Baton reaches Sikkim.

Pak to send JF-17 combat jets for Farnborough Air Show in Britain

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan would be sending its JF-17 fighter jets, which have been developed with China’s help, for the Farnborough Air Show 2010 scheduled to held from July 19 to 25 in Britain.

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) would display the JF-17, which is manufactured at the Kamra based Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC), along with … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pak to send JF-17 combat jets for Farnborough Air Show in Britain.

Two-thirds of Britons support Islamic burka ban

LONDON – More than two-thirds of Britons believe there should be a complete ban on wearing the burka across the country.

According to Sky News, seventy one per cent of people living in the north of England and Wales are in favour of prohibiting the burka and indicated that they would support such a move.

Those in …. Original article  : Two-thirds of Britons support Islamic burka ban.

Clinton to press Afghanistan on security, corruption as concerns about war deepen

Clinton off to Afghanistan as war fears rise

WASHINGTON – Amid growing concerns about the war in Afghanistan, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is departing for South Asia this weekend on a mission aimed at refining the goals of the nearly 9-year-old conflict.
Clinton will attend next week’s international conference in Kabul where the Afghan government …. Source article  : Clinton to press Afghanistan on security, corruption as concerns about war deepen.

90 percent Pakistanis consider their surroundings unsafe: Survey

ISLAMABAD – Over 90 percent of people in Pakistan consider their region unsafe, a survey has revealed.

According to survey carried out by Gallup Pakistan for the Gilani Research Foundation, an overwhelming majority of Pakistani civilians consider the area they live in unsafe.

The survey showed that over the past 25 years fear about lack of safety … Original source on Gaea Times at : 90 percent Pakistanis consider their surroundings unsafe: Survey.

16 killed, four injured in FATA ambush

ISLAMABAD – Unidentified gunmen opened fire at a caravan moving along with a military convoy in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) Kurram Agency on Saturday killing at least 16 people.

Four persons were injured in the ambush, The Nation reports.

According to reports, the caravan was going to Peshawar from Upper Kurram along with the security … Read more »»».

Photos reveal ice of the Himalayas disappearing

LONDON – Experts comparing a 1921 photo of Mount Everest with a photo of the same place taken in 2010, have confirmed that the ice mass is disappearing in an “alarming” manner.

The Asia Society (AS) arranged for the pictures to be taken in exactly the same place where British climber George Mallory took photos in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Photos reveal ice of the Himalayas disappearing.

Six CRPF men killed by inebriated colleague in Jharkhand

RANCHI – In a shocking incident, six Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, including an Assitant Commandant were killed by one of their colleagues late on Friday night in Saraikela District’s Kuchai village.

According to reports, constable Harpinder Singh opened indiscriminate firing on his colleagues after consuming liquor killing six personnel of the CRPF’s C Company [..] Read the original article: here.

US born cleric al-Awlaki added to terror blacklist

WASHINGTON – Radical Yemeni-American cleric Anwar al-Awlaki has been added to an Obama administration terrorism blacklist that will see him being targeted with sanctions aimed at cutting off his financial support.

Anwar al-Awlaki’s inclusion in the list of Specially Designated Global Terrorists means any bank accounts found in the United States belonging to him are frozen, … Read more >>.

After 2 days in Maine resort, first family heads home Sunday to Washington

First family wraps up packed Maine holiday

BAR HARBOR, Maine – After two days of nearly nonstop recreation at a Maine resort, President Barack Obama and his family will head home Sunday to Washington.
In a visit that began Friday, the president, his wife Michelle and daughters Malia and Sasha managed to fit in just about every … Original article on : After 2 days in Maine resort, first family heads home Sunday to Washington.

‘Red spy’ Anna Chapman ran money smuggling ring?

LONDON – ‘Russian spy’ Anna Chapman faces claims of involvement in a money-smuggling operation when she was living in the UK.

Anna, 28, is believed to have been behind black-market deals worth millions of pounds while she worked with Ken Sharpe, a businessman, introduced to her by her father, who is a diplomat in the Russian …. Original source  : ‘Red spy’ Anna Chapman ran money smuggling ring?.

Fake milk unit busted in Lucknow police raid

LUCKNOW – The Lucknow police raided a major milk unit here in an attempt to clampdown the spurious milk-selling business rampant in the region.

Suspecting that the unit distributed adulterated stocks, the police seized large quantities of milk and sent them for forensic analysis on Saturday.

However, it is not yet clear whether the milk unit …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Fake milk unit busted in Lucknow police raid.

Why women make better ’spooks’

LONDON – Anna Chapman made headlines across the world after the red headed beauty was arrested in New York last month on charges of spying for Russia. But she’s just one of many women who use their “sexuality to their advantage” to forge careers in what has largely been a world dominated by men. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Why women make better ’spooks’.

Britain rules out possibilities of imposing ‘burka’ ban

LONDON – Britain ruled out the possibilities that it will not follow France by introducing a law banning women from wearing the facial veil or ‘burka’.

According to the BBC, the Immigration Minister Damian Green has said that such a move would be “rather un-British” and run contrary to the conventions of a “tolerant and mutually …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Emirates regulator calls for higher offer to buy out small shareholders of Abu Dhabi fund

UAE regulator urges higher buyout offer for Aabar

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – The Emirates’ market watchdog is calling on Aabar Investments’ top shareholder to boost its offer to buy out minority shareholders by more than a third.
The Securities and Commodities Authority urged state-run International Petroleum Investment Company to pay 1.95 dirhams (53 cents) a share …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Emirates regulator calls for higher offer to buy out small shareholders of Abu Dhabi fund.

29pc of Malaysians suffer from premature ejaculation woes: Study

KUALA LUMPUR – A new study has revealed that many Malaysian men ejaculate even before having sexual intercourse with their partner.

According to the Universiti Sains Malaysia survey, about 29 percent of Malaysians aged between 19 and 60 suffer from some sort of premature ejaculation.

The percentage could be higher, considering many are unable to practice healthy … Read more »»».

Orissa opposition demands removal of ministers named in coal scam

BHUBANESWAR – The Opposition parties in Orissa demanded removal of two ministers Badrinarayan Patra and Pratap Jena for their alleged involvement in the coal scam.

Patra and Jena are the Ministers of Urban Development and School and Mass Education, respectively in the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Government.

The two were chairmen of the state-owned Orissa Small Industries …. Read the original article  : here.

Michael Nazir-Ali says burkas should not be worn where it compromises on safety

LONDON – To add on the consideration whether or not burka should be banned in Britain, the former Bishop of Rochester, Michael Nazir-Ali, has said that burkas should not be worn where it compromises on safety.

According to The Telegraph, he said that the fundamental principle of freedom of belief and of the right to manifest …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Michael Nazir-Ali says burkas should not be worn where it compromises on safety.

Caveman’s 4,500-year-old doodle on rock discovered

LONDON – Scientists have discovered what is believed to be one of the world’s oldest doodles – an ancient scrawl carved onto a rock by a caveman 4,500 years ago.

Cambridge University experts believe the crudely etched circles are the Neolithic version of a modern office worker’s scribbles on a post-it note.
The 17 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Sex And The City’ fan sleeps with 1000 men

LONDON – A British woman was so fascinated with her favourite TV show ‘Sex And The City’ star Samantha that she ended up following into her footsteps.

Inspired by man-eater Samantha, Christina Saunders went on to seduce 1000 men.

“Sam went from one man to the next and was proud of it. I wanted to be confident …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Australian senator demands burka ban in country

CANBERRA – Australian liberal senator Cory Bernardi has urged the country to follow the lead of France and ban the burka, describing it as “the most public symbol of fundamentalist Islam”.

According to the Courier Mail, in an internet blog, Bernardi said that there were supporters of fundamentalist Islam who wanted to impose sharia, or … Original source on Gaea Times at : Australian senator demands burka ban in country.

Clinton in Pakistan to press greater cooperation in Afghan war, boost development

Clinton arrives in Pakistan on key mission

ISLAMABAD – U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton has arrived in Pakistan at the start of a tour of South Asia aimed at refining the goals of the nearly 9-year-old war in Afghanistan.
She wants to push neighboring countries to cooperate in the fight against al-Qaida and Taliban extremists.
Clinton … Read : Clinton in Pakistan to press greater cooperation in Afghan war, boost development.

Three saved from drowning in Haryana’s Ghaggar rivulet

PANCHKULA – In a daring rescue operation, a special squad of divers saved three people from drowning in the raging Ghaggar rivulet in Haryana’s Panchkula District.

The three men were stranded on a small islet on Saturday surrounding by strong currents in the overflowing rivulet since many hours, unable to swim across due to the raging … Original source on Gaea Times at : Three saved from drowning in Haryana’s Ghaggar rivulet.

J-K locals upset with Hurriyat Conference’s nine-day protest programme

SRINAGAR – The nine-day protest programme announced by the separatist Hurriyat Conference in Jammu and Kashmir has upset locals.

After more than three weeks of curfews and shutdowns, life was returning to normalcy in the valley but the protest programme, called in connection with the Hurriyat Conference’s ‘Quit Kashmir Campaign’ on Friday has again engulfed Kashmir …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : J-K locals upset with Hurriyat Conference’s nine-day protest programme.

Bubbly recovered from Baltic Sea wreck could belong to Louis XVI

NEW YORK – Thirty bottles of centuries-old champagne discovered in a shipwreck in the Baltic Sea could belong to French monarch Louis XVI, it has emerged.

The bubbly possibly dates back to the late 18th century, making it the world’s oldest drinkable champagne.

Believed to be the top brand Veuve Clicquot, it has remained perfectly preserved 180 … Read more : Bubbly recovered from Baltic Sea wreck could belong to Louis XVI.

Separatist shutdown, restrictions cripple Srinagar again

SRINAGAR – A shutdown called by separatists and restrictions imposed by authorities paralysed life in Srinagar Sunday, just a day after a semblance of normalcy was restored after days of strikes and curfew. North Kashmir’s Baramulla town, meanwhile, was tense after a boy allegedly drowned there after being chased by security forces.

The hardline separatist …. Source article  : Separatist shutdown, restrictions cripple Srinagar again.

28 miners killed in China’s coalmine accident

BEIJING – Twenty-eight miners were killed in a coalmine accident on Saturday in Hancheng City in China’s Shaanxi Province.

According to Xinhua, the provincial Government has said that an underground cable short circuit led to the tragedy at Xiaonangou coal mine at Sangshuping Township of Hancheng on Saturday night.

Rescuers have retrieved the remains of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 28 miners killed in China’s coalmine accident.

Qureshi howler: says never claimed Krishna used phone during talks

ISLAMABAD – In an apparent volte-face, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has denied accusing his Indian counterpart S M Krishna of receiving directives over the telephone from high-ups in New Delhi during the July 15 talks.

“I had never said that Indian external minister repeatedly went out during meeting to receive instructions from Delhi,” The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Qureshi howler: says never claimed Krishna used phone during talks.

Obama makes peace with Bill Clinton to improve his approval ratings

LONDON – In order to improve his approval ratings, which have been going downwards ahead of the crucial mid-term elections, US President Barack Obama, has turned for help to one of his harshest Democratic critics, Bill Clinton.

To drag his presidency out of the doldrums and salvage Democratic prospects in a bleak campaign season, Obama is …. Read the original article  : Obama makes peace with Bill Clinton to improve his approval ratings.

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.

Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Sets Up Information Kiosks

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Commonwealth Games 2010 is just two months away and New Delhi, the host city this year, is leaving no stone unturned to assure that visitors at the Games receive the best hospitality services from India. Among others the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is introducing new methods to make … Read more : Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Sets Up Information Kiosks.

Sarkozy confirms death of French aid worker after raid against al-Qaida in the Sahara

Sarkozy says French aid worker killed in Africa

PARIS – French President Nicolas Sarkozy says a 78-year-old French aid worker held hostage by al-Qaida’s North African branch has been killed in the Sahara.
Sarkozy condemned the “odious act” and vowed to keep up the fight against terrorism.
He confirmed that France took part in a military operation in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sarkozy confirms death of French aid worker after raid against al-Qaida in the Sahara.

Saudi clerics declare French Muslim women exempt from wearing veils

LONDON – Two Saudi clerics have declared Muslim women are exempt from wearing full veils in France, but added they should avoid visiting it as tourists.

The comments by Islamic jurisprudence scholar Mohamed al-Nujaimi and author and cleric Ayed al-Garni come two weeks after French MPs passed a bill under which women could be fined for … Read more >>>.

Britain’s fattest woman dies in hospital

LONDON – Britain’s fattest woman at 45st has died after secretly eating family buckets of chicken, fish and chips in hospital.

Sharon Mevsimler, 40, begged her family to sneak take-aways into the Chelmsford hospital where she was on a strict diet.

Even horrified witnesses saw relatives smuggling fast food to the gorging mum of four.

She was …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Soldier’s body brought to Dehradun for final rites

DEHRADUN – The body of Gorkha Rifles soldier Rohit Gurung, who died during patrolling two days ago in Kashmir, was brought to his hometown in Dehradun, Uttarakhand for final rites on Monday.

Gurung was killed by a landmine explosion while patrolling in the Poonch area of Kashmir on Friday.

“Today, indeed, it is a very sad …. Source  : Soldier’s body brought to Dehradun for final rites.

King Tut’s chariot headed to New York for first time in Discovery’s ancient Egypt exhibition

King Tut’s chariot headed to Discovery exhibition

CAIRO – Egypt’s antiquities chief has announced that King Tutankhamun’s chariot is flying to New York this week to finally join the Discovery Times Square Exposition exhibit of the famed boy ruler.
Zahi Hawass says the chariot will leave Egypt on Wednesday accompanied by an Egyptian conservator.
The chariot was supposed … Original source on Gaea Times at : King Tut’s chariot headed to New York for first time in Discovery’s ancient Egypt exhibition.

Suspended weightlifting coach denies allegations of sexual harassment

PATIALA – Suspended Indian weightlifting coach Ramesh Malhotra has denied the allegations of sexual harassment leveled against him by Olympic bronze medallist Karnam Malleswari.

The coach asserted that he is clean and that Malleswari was utilizing the media for publicity.

“She was out and nobody even remembered her. After Kaushik episode she had something cooking in … Read more >>>.

Twin brothers – one black, one white!

MELBOURNE – We have all heard of twins – but whoever heard of one black and one white twin?

Kaydon and Layton Richardson are one, and probably the only such pair.orn to English-Nigerian mum Kerry, 32, Kaydon has taken after her while Layton got white genes from their father.

“You couldn’t find twins who are more different,” [..] Read the original article: here.

UFO spotted in China ‘not from outer space’

NEW DELHI – Experts have said that an unidentified flying object (UFO) spotted near Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport on July 7 was not from outer space.

The report, released by an investigation team of experts from Shanghai and Beijing, said that the object was not of extraterrestrial origin.

According to Zhang Yunhua, who was quoted by the Legal …. Read the original article  : UFO spotted in China ‘not from outer space’.

European makeup, techniques showcased at cosmetic exhibition in Chennai

CHENNAI – Makeup artists showcased the latest European cosmetic products and makeup technologies at the fourth edition of Cinema Today 2010 International Exhibition in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

The three-day-long exhibition began on Friday and concluded Sunday.

The exhibition was organised specially for the people connected with television, broadcast and entertainment industries.

European makeup artists demonstrated the use … Read : European makeup, techniques showcased at cosmetic exhibition in Chennai.

‘Enrique worried about Brazilian wax and sharks before naked skiing bet’

WASHINGTON – Enrique Iglesias is ready to honour his bet of skiing naked if Spain won the World Cup this year.

The ‘Escape’ crooner revealed about his bizarre bet at the 150th episode taping of ‘So You Think You Can Dance’.

“I need to get my Brazilian wax before I do it,” People Magazine quoted the …. Original article  : ‘Enrique worried about Brazilian wax and sharks before naked skiing bet’.

Israeli settlers enter Palestinian village in West Bank, 10 hurt in stone-throwing clash

Settlers, Palestinians wounded in West Bank clash

BURIN, West Bank – Israeli settlers clashed with Palestinians after entering their village in the northern West Bank, leaving 10 wounded.
Israeli police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld says four settlers were hurt, one of them seriously. Palestinians say five villagers were hit by rocks and taken to hospital.
An AP photographer was … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Israeli settlers enter Palestinian village in West Bank, 10 hurt in stone-throwing clash.

Two policemen killed in Peshawar checkpost attack

PESHAWAR – At least two policemen were killed and 14 other injured when some 200 militants attacked a police checkpost near Peshawar on Monday morning.

No militant group has claimed the responsibility for the attack, the Xinhua news agency reports.

It follows the July 23 attack on Gulshan-e-Ravi and Lytton Road police stations in Lahore.

Two terrorists … Read more >>>.

Centre to provide all assistance to protect every inch of country: Antony

NEW DELHI – Defence Minister A. K. Antony on Monday said the central government would provide all assistance to the armed forces to protect every inch of the country.

Stating that there was possibility of recent U.S. military aid to Pakistan being used against India, Antony said: “We feel that there is every possibility of diverting …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Centre to provide all assistance to protect every inch of country: Antony.

China slaps new restrictions to regulate “naked officials”

BEIJING – China has released new restrictions, the second of its kind this month, governing “naked officials”, or those whose family members have all gone abroad in its latest drive to fight corruption.

According to China Daily, the general offices of the State Council and the Communist Party of China’s (CPC) Central Committee have issued …. Original source  : China slaps new restrictions to regulate “naked officials”.

Pak in denial mode following ISI- Afghan Taliban nexus proof in leaked US military data

WASHINGTON – Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Husain Haqqani, has called the leak of classified US military documents on the Afghan war as “irresponsible”, and insisted that his nation was fully committed to fighting terror groups.

Whistle-blower organization WikiLeaks has released over 90,000 documents called the ‘Afghan War Diaries, 2004-2010′, which prove fears that Pakistan …. Original article  : Pak in denial mode following ISI- Afghan Taliban nexus proof in leaked US military data.

Brit Soldier nicknamed ‘Bomb magnet’ after being blown up 13 times

LONDON – A British soldier, who has been blown up 13 times, has been nicknamed ‘Bomb Magnet’

Patrick Hyde has been blown up 13 times and has survived to tell his explosive experiences.

Warrant Officer Class 2 Patrick Hyde of 4 Rifles was under repeated attack in Helmand.

The 34-year-old father-of-two drove over 11 bombs.

He spent … Read : Brit Soldier nicknamed ‘Bomb magnet’ after being blown up 13 times.

Taliban offers to swap US navy soldier’s body with insurgent prisoners

LONDON – The Taliban has offered to exchange the body of a US navy man who according to them, was killed during an ambush two days ago, with insurgent prisoners.

The Guardian has quoted Abdul Wali, the head of the provincial governing council as saying that the Taliban had made the offer through intermediaries.

Afghan …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Taliban offers to swap US navy soldier’s body with insurgent prisoners.

Lok Sabha adjourns after tribute to ex-VP Shekhawat, Kargil martyrs

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day on the first day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament on Monday.

The lower house assembled at 11 a.m., and was followed by Speaker Meira Kumar leading members in paying tribute to deceased former vice president Bhairon Singh Shekhawat and former union minister and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Lok Sabha adjourns after tribute to ex-VP Shekhawat, Kargil martyrs.

India successfully test-fires interceptor missile in Orissa

BALASORE – India on Monday successfully test-fired a ballistic missile interceptor from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) on Wheeler Island off the Orissa’s coast.

The target missile, a modified indigenously built “Prithvi”, was first lifted off from a mobile launcher from the ITR’s launch complex-3 at Chandipur-on-sea.

Minutes later, the interceptor missile getting signals from the hostile …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : India successfully test-fires interceptor missile in Orissa.

Google cuts off ties with two Chinese advertisers

NEW DELHI – US-based search engine Google Incorporated has cut commercial ties with two of its Chinese advertising agents, highlighting concerns about its continued standoff with Beijing over content censorship.

Google ended partnerships with Universal Internet Media and Xi’an Weihua Network, which are its major advertising agents in East and Northwest China, Marsha Wang, spokesperson …. Source article  : Google cuts off ties with two Chinese advertisers.

Ahmadinejad denies aiding Taliban, wants US and NATO forces out of Afghanistan

LONDON – Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has denied allegations that the nation is aiding the Taliban in its fight against the Afghan Government and the US-led coalition troops.

“We do not support any group, we just and only support the Afghan people and want to strengthen security in the country,” he told CBS News …. Source article  : Ahmadinejad denies aiding Taliban, wants US and NATO forces out of Afghanistan.

Self-proclaimed Aussie witch claims to be an alien

Melbourne, July 27 (ANI): A self-proclaimed Geelong witch told a traffic policeman she was not bound by earthly laws because she was “a being from another world”, an Australian court was told.

At a recent hearing in Geelong Magistrates’ Court, De Avalon pleaded guilty to recklessly causing serious injury, dangerous driving and driving while suspended, using … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Self-proclaimed Aussie witch claims to be an alien.

Reserve Bank monetary policy will ease inflation claims Pranab Mukherjee

New Delhi, July 27 (ANI): Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday said the Reserve Bank India (RBI) decision to raise short-term key rates would check inflation without hurting growth.

In a statement after the RBI announced its new credit policy, Mukherjee said: “I expect this policy will lead to further easing of inflation which already … Read more >>>.

Art officials unveil painting originally suggested to be Caravaggio

Disputed Caravaggio painting unveiled
ROME – Art officials have unveiled the painting at the center of the latest Caravaggio mystery, after the Vatican newspaper first suggested and then denied that the canvas was the work of the Italian master.

Art superintendent Rossella Vodret opened the curtain Tuesday on “Martyrdom of St. Lawrence” and said the painting would … Original article on : Art officials unveil painting originally suggested to be Caravaggio.

Even men can feel as unattractive as women

LONDON – It is not just women who feel unattractive at certain times of the month. Men are just as likely to suffer “fat days”, feeling less confident about their appearance and suffering from low self esteem, a new study suggests.

According to a survey of more than 5,000 men, 34 percent said feeling unattractive …. Source article  : Even men can feel as unattractive as women.

Julia Gillard could walk down the aisle if re-elected

MELBOURNE – Julia Gillard may walk down the aisle if re-elected, the Australian Premier has indicated.

Gillard confirmed that her defacto partner Tim Mathieson would live in The Lodge with her were she to return to power but said if she tied the knot she would do so for personal reasons, and any such decision … Read : Julia Gillard could walk down the aisle if re-elected.

Model who vowed to run naked in support of Paraguay’s WC team robbed

NEW YORK – Larissa Riquelme, the Paraguayan model who promised to run naked in support of her home team at the FIFA World Cup, has been robbed.

The 25-year-old stunner Riquelme was attacked in Rio de Janiero. She was carrying her phone, passport, and digital cameras that were stolen, according to the Huffington Post.

After the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Model who vowed to run naked in support of Paraguay’s WC team robbed.

Brit boy, 4, found dead in tumble dryer

LONDON – A four-year-old boy, after being reported missing from the garden of his home, was found dead in a tumble dryer.

Sonny Shepherd was reported missing from his home garden on Northcliffe Road, Ashbourne, Derbyshire, shortly after 10.30am.

A police helicopter was deployed to carry out the search for Sonny before he was found dead. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brit boy, 4, found dead in tumble dryer.

Kashmir traders suffer losses due to demonstrations

JAMMU – The disturbed conditions in the Kashmir valley has led to business losses to wholesale traders in the state.

Due to the ongoing turmoil in the valley, the traders are unable to receive their payments on time; consequently, they are unable to pay back their bank payments against which they have raised their loans.

The …. Original article  : Kashmir traders suffer losses due to demonstrations.

Madrasa students in Gorakhpur to miss midday meal

GORAKHPUR – Students of ‘madrasas’ in Gorakhpur are not getting the benefits of the central government’s Mid-Day Meal scheme.

There are eight recognized madrasas in the district with almost 1,800 students but they have not been able to avail of the government programme, even as other government-run and government-aided primary education institutes in the district …. Source article  : Madrasa students in Gorakhpur to miss midday meal.

Assam, Mizoram sign Unique Identification project

NEW DELHI – The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) signed Memorandums of Understand (MoUs) with the Governments of Assam and Mizoram, detailing the implementation of the UID Project in the states here today.

The MoU with the Government of Assam was signed between Davinder Kumar, DDG UIDAI and Subhash C. Das, Principal Secretary, Assam in … Read more »»».

Price rise rocks Parliament, Rajya Sabha adjourned till Wednesday

NEW DELHI – The issue of price rise rocked the second day of Parliament’s Monsoon Session on Tuesday. While the Rajya Sabha was adjourned till Wednesday, the Lok Sabha is expected to resume discussions after 2 p.m.

Earlier in the day, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj and leader of Opposition in the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Price rise rocks Parliament, Rajya Sabha adjourned till Wednesday.

Afghanistan not surprised by Pak support for Taliban

KABUL/WASHINGTON – Afghan leaders and citizens are not surprised by the Taliban-Pakistani connection made in the Afghan war reports released by the web site WikiLeaks.org.

Kabul’s view has long been that ending Pakistani support for the Taliban is the key to ending the war.

Afghan President Hamid Karzai responded to the Wikileaks reports by calling on … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Afghanistan not surprised by Pak support for Taliban.

French premier says al-Qaida may have killed hostage before failed Sahara raid

Prime minister: France is at war against al-Qaida

PARIS – France is “at war” with al-Qaida and will step up efforts to fight its North African offshoot after it executed a French hostage in the Sahara, Prime Minister Francois Fillon said Tuesday.
Fillon acknowledged that the group may have killed 78-year-old hostage Michel Germaneau before – not … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : French premier says al-Qaida may have killed hostage before failed Sahara raid.

Report: ‘Serious failure’ in UK visa controls for Pakistanis

LONDON – An independent chief inspector of the UK Border Agency, John Vine’s report has revealed that immigration controls for Pakistani applicants who want to settle in the United Kingdom have failed to protect British borders.

According to the BBC, Vine said that a “significant number” of visa applications were not being “decided correctly”.

“In the …. Source  : Report: ‘Serious failure’ in UK visa controls for Pakistanis.

Leak inquiry centers on arrested US intelligence analyst

LONDON/WASHINGTON – The Pentagon is reported to have zeroed onto a US Army intelligence analyst while investigating the biggest leak in US military history.

According to The Telegraph, 22-year-old Bradley Manning is alleged to have boasted online that he was going to reveal “the truth” about the war in Afghanistan. Manning is currently awaiting court …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Leak inquiry centers on arrested US intelligence analyst.

No victory in war of terror till Pak”s ISI reined in: Karzai aide Home

WASHINGTON/ISLAMABAD – An aide of Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai has said that victory in the war against terror will remain distant as long as Pakistan”s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) is not reined in.

Even as the White House, attempts to defuse the row at home over the WikiLeak engineered leak of 91,000 US military documents containing information … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : No victory in war of terror till Pak”s ISI reined in: Karzai aide Home.

New expedition to Titanic site will create detailed 3D ‘map’ of wreck, gauge deterioration

New Titanic expedition will create 3D map of wreck

RICHMOND, Va. – A new expedition to the Titanic shipwreck is scheduled to begin next month.
Organizers say the 20-day trip will be the most scientifically advanced mission yet to the site where the luxurious ocean liner came to rest in 1912.
Scientists plan to use advanced imaging technology … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : New expedition to Titanic site will create detailed 3D ‘map’ of wreck, gauge deterioration.

Military’s hit list of enemy militants: Reality of Afghanistan conflict or war crime?

Hit list draws fire in wake of leaked US documents

WASHINGTON – When it comes to war, killing the enemy is an accepted fact. But there are charges that some American commando operations in Afghanistan may have amounted to war crimes.
The thousands of pages of classified U.S. documents released Sunday by whistle-blower website WikiLeaks.org include nearly …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pak facing resistance from India over consistency in dialogue process: Qureshi

MULTAN – Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said that his government is sincerely pursuing the dialogue process, but was facing resistance from the Indian government.

Qureshi said that Pakistan is ready for result-oriented and meaningful talks with India.

According to the Minister, different issues including Kashmir and the water disputes needed to be resolved through …. Source  : Pak facing resistance from India over consistency in dialogue process: Qureshi.

Kiwi woman career diplomat to head mission in India

WELLINGTON – Career woman diplomat Jan Henderson has been appointed New Zealand’s next High Commissioner to India.

Foreign Minister Murray McCully said India was on track to becoming one of New Zealand’s most significant partners and a trade agreement under negotiation would enhance that.

Two-way trade between New Zealand and India passed the billion-dollar mark … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kiwi woman career diplomat to head mission in India.

Two men in infamous ‘cow head’ incident pay RM 3,000

KUALA LUMPUR – Two Muslim men involved in the infamous cow head protest over the relocation of a Hindu temple in 2009, were fined RM 3,000 each for defaulting on a three months’ jail term. A Sessions Court passed the order after they pleaded guilty to a sedition charge in a court in Selangor state. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Two men in infamous ‘cow head’ incident pay RM 3,000.

Seepage damages paintings in Ellora caves

AURANGABAD – The paintings of the Ellora caves in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, are losing their gleam due to rainwater seepage in the caves.part from seepage and rock falls, even the lights installed inside the Ellora caves are damaging the sculptures. The paintings are being affected by moisture, and with the immediate effect that the paintings are …. Source article  : Seepage damages paintings in Ellora caves.

Chelsea Clinton rents porcelain portable loos for wedding guests

LONDON – Chelsea Clinton is said to have rented portable toilets for her wedding guests.

As Chelsea is the only child of former US president Bill, there will be a host of high-profile attendees at the 30-year-old’s wedding to Marc Mezvinsky, 31 – many of them unused to using an “outhouse”.

But the 400 guests … Read more >>.

Montenegro finds no evidence of mass grave of ethnic Albanians killed during Kosovo war

Montenegro finds no evidence of mass grave

PODGORICA, Montenegro – Montenegrin authorities say an investigation into a suspected mass grave has been closed after finding no evidence that Kosovo Albanians were buried at the site.
A court spokeswoman Biljana Covic said Wednesday that no trace of a mass grave was found at a sawmill in Andrijevica, near …. Source  : Montenegro finds no evidence of mass grave of ethnic Albanians killed during Kosovo war.

Hundreds of devotees celebrate onset of monsoon month in Mathura

MATHURA – Hundreds of devotees thronged in large numbers to offer prayers at the famous Dwarakadhish Temple in Mathura, on the occasion of the onset of the Hindu month of ‘Sawan’ that heralds the coming of the monsoon.he monsoon month is considered sacred among devotees of Lord Krishna, who was born in a prison in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Hundreds of devotees celebrate onset of monsoon month in Mathura.

US concerned over ISI’s links with Lashkar, Haqqani network

ISLAMABAD – The US Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman, Admiral Mike Mullen, has said that Washington remained concerned over Pakistani intelligence agency ISI’s alleged links with Lashkar-e-Tayyaba (LeT) and the Haqqani network.

Mullen said: “Any links which exist with terrorist organisations, whether it’s Haqqani or LeT, are completely unacceptable. I am appalled at the release. I … Original source on Gaea Times at : US concerned over ISI’s links with Lashkar, Haqqani network.

Pak Govt’s new bill to put stricter checks on terrorists

ISLAMABAD – To have an adequate deterrence and curb on terrorism effectively in the country, the Pakistan Government has introduced a comprehensive legislation in the Senate in this regard.

Interior Minister Rehman Malik introduced the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2010 to amend the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997, which contains several measures to make the law harder on terrorists. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pak Govt’s new bill to put stricter checks on terrorists.

DMRC To Open New Route

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The DMRC is on an expansion overdrive and in the end it is the customers who will be benefitted. The Delhi Metro which is expanding its network on various parts of the nation’s capital is also augmenting its fleet. The Delhi residents have reasons to be delighted as the much …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sino-Pak relations have reached new height: Chinese envoy to Pak

Islamabad, July 28(ANI): Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Liu Jian, has said that the Sino-Pak strategic partnership has reached a new height in recent years, and the two countries are coming closer in all fields of common interest.

“Our military and civil relations have reached new height, meeting the common aspirations of two peoples,” The Dawn quoted …. Original source  : Sino-Pak relations have reached new height: Chinese envoy to Pak.

Al-Qaida No. 2 blasts France’s push to ban Islamic face veil, eulogizes comrade in new message

Al-Qaida No. 2 slams France’s ban on Islamic veils

CAIRO – Al-Qaida’s No. 2 has slammed France’s push to ban the Islamic full-face veil and urged Muslim women in a new audio message on the Internet to defend their headdress in a holy war against the “secular Western crusade.”
Ayman al-Zawahri says the drive by France and … Read more >>>.

Castro to release first volume of memoirs in August

HAVANA – Former Cuban president Fidel Castro has announced plans to release the first volume of his memoirs. he Strategic Victory, which tells the story of how a few hundred revolutionaries under Castro’s command defeated the Cuban army in 1958, will be published in August, The Telegraph reports.

He told Cuban website cubadebate.cu that the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

UK, US, France may attend Hiroshima bombing anniversary for first time

TOKYO – Britain and the United States are considering sending representatives for the first time to the 65th anniversary ceremony of the 1945 atomic bombing of Hiroshima.

The Telegraph quoted Japanese media reports as saying that John Roos, the US ambassador to Japan, is likely to attend this year’s ceremony. He reports also said that Britain …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : UK, US, France may attend Hiroshima bombing anniversary for first time.

India, China share top two position among emerging economies

NEW DELHI – India is ranked second among 27 emerging economies due to its large consumer market and fast economic growth, according to the Emerging Markets Opportunity Index released by US accounting firm Grant Thornton.

China is ranked first with 454 points; India’s score (222 points) in second place and that of Russia (163 points) in … Original article on : India, China share top two position among emerging economies.

Al-Zawahiri threatens to launch more Qaeda attacks on US, West

NEW YORK – Al Qaeda’s second in command Ayman Al-Zawahiri has threatened to launch more attacks against the United States and the West.

In a new audio message, Al-Zawahiri said the terror network would strike at the heart of America and Europe for the killing former al Qaeda official Mustafa Abu Al-Yazid.

“Oh American people…We offered … Read : Al-Zawahiri threatens to launch more Qaeda attacks on US, West.

Police baton charge contractual teachers in Muzaffarnagar

MUZAFFARNAGAR – Police personnel baton charged hundreds of protesting Shiksha Mitra (contractual teacher) at Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh.

The teachers were demanding training, permanent jobs and better salaries on Tuesday.

As a part of their demonstration, they disrupted railway services, stopping a train at the Muzaffarnagar railway station.

“We were protesting in a peaceful manner. Some Shiksha Mitra had …. Original source  : Police baton charge contractual teachers in Muzaffarnagar.

DMRC Snag Spreads Scare

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- In a recent development that left thousands of the commuters of Delhi Metro scared the services of DMRC were stalled for more than an hour on Tuesday. The services were affected in the line 2. It was owing to frequent sparks observed at the Rajeev Chowk Metro station at the …. Source  : DMRC Snag Spreads Scare.

Americans express doubts about ISI,Pak military ability to crack down on insurgents

WASHINGTON – A former US military officer has expressed doubts about the ability of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to crack down on every militant group inside its borders even if it wanted to.

The former unnamed officer’s views are among many opinions expressed by Americans who have all along viewed the Pakistani military establishment with suspicion, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Americans express doubts about ISI,Pak military ability to crack down on insurgents.

Students union in Assam protests influx of Bangladeshi immigrants

JORHAT – All Tai Ahom Student Union (ATASU), a student’s wing in Jorhat, Assam staged a peaceful sit-in protest, against the influx of Bangladeshi immigrants in the region.

Hundreds of students gathered for the protest on Tuesday, saying the entry of Bangladeshi immigrants into the state is posing a great threat to the identity of Assam’s … Read more >>>.

Home ministry to form working group on security with FICCI

NEW DELHI – The home ministry will form a working group with an industry lobby to explore how modern technology can be used to fight terrorism and other national security challenges.

This was disclosed at a conference on “Science and Technology for Homeland Security” organised by the Federation of India Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry …. Read the original article  : Home ministry to form working group on security with FICCI.

Panel unhappy with Goa’s coastal security measures

PANAJI – A legislative panel in Goa has expressed unhappiness with the security measures taken by the state government along the 105 km long coastline.

The state legislative ad hoc committee on home chaired by Leader of Opposition Manohar Parrikar has also urged the state home ministry to “have a thoughtful look at the [..] Read the original article: here.

‘Rushdie, McEwan, Barnes arrogant and disappointing’

LONDON – Salman Rushdie, British author of Indian-origin, and his contemporaries like Ian McEwan and Julian Barnes are like prep-school boys, arrogant, self-satisfied and “profoundly disappointing”, a leading literature expert has said.

Gabriel Josipovici, research professor at Sussex University and former professor of comparative literature at Oxford, has condemned the work of “giants of the modern … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Rushdie, McEwan, Barnes arrogant and disappointing’.

Palestinian president says he won’t give in to pressure for direct talks with Israel

Abbas resists push for direct talks with Israel

CAIRO – The Palestinian president is refusing to move to direct peace talks with Israel until it agrees to a complete halt in settlement construction and accepts a Palestinian state in territories seized in the 1967 Middle East war.
Mahmoud Abbas is under strong U.S. pressure to restart face-to-face …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Palestinian president says he won’t give in to pressure for direct talks with Israel.

Price rise forces Parliament to adjourn till Friday

NEW DELHI – The issue of price rise rocked the third day of Parliament’s Monsoon Session on Thursday. Both the houses were adjourned till Friday.

According to reports, the opposition members, demanding a thorough discussion over the price rise issue, said their protests would continue if their demands were not met.

In the Lok Sabha, opposition …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Airspace to be closed near Clinton’s wedding to keep paparazzi at bay

NEW YORK – If media reporters are hoping to catch an aerial view of Chelsea Clinton’s wedding, they better have a contingency plan.

According to The New York Times, The Federal Aviation Administration has decided to ban flights below 2,000 feet for the area surrounding the estate on the Hudson River where Clinton is to be …. Original source  : Airspace to be closed near Clinton’s wedding to keep paparazzi at bay.

Holbrooke says corruption helps Taliban to win recruits

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama’s Special Envoy to Pakistan and Afghanistan Richard C Holbrooke has claimed that rampant corruption in Afghanistan is providing the Taliban with its number one recruiting tool.
The New York Times quoted Holbrooke, as saying that in the light of this, Washington was taking adequate precautions to cut down the misuse … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Holbrooke says corruption helps Taliban to win recruits.

Vatican accused of hypocrisy after skimpy clothing ban

LONDON – The ban imposed by the Vatican on tourists wearing skimpy clothing has been deemed as hypocritical, especially with the Catholic Church battling scandals involving paedophile priests.

Visitors have said that instead of dealing with the scandals and decades of cover-ups, the Vatican is wasting its time on mundane things like skimpy clothing.

Swiss Guards, who … Read more »».

Sohrabuddin case: CBI to quiz Narendra Modi?

AHMEDABAD – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) team is likely to seek permission from its headquarters to question Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi in connection with the Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case.

According to television reports, the investigating agency may want Modi to answer some questions in the Sohrabuddin fake encounter case.

The CBI wants to …. Original article  : Sohrabuddin case: CBI to quiz Narendra Modi?.

52 killed as rains wreak havoc in Pak

PESHAWAR – A fresh spell of monsoon rains has wreaked havoc across Pakistan, as at least 52 people have been killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan and the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) in rain-related incidents.

Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) spokesman Adnan Khan confirmed the deaths of eight people across the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

He said …. Original article  : 52 killed as rains wreak havoc in Pak.

Pak’s anti-terror determination should not be doubted: Pak envoy to US

Washington, July 29(ANI): Pakistani Ambassador to the US, Hussain Haqqani, has reiterated that his country’s anti-terrorism determination should not be doubted over the leak of Afghan war documents.

Haqqani said that Pakistan’s current unified efforts should be taken into account, which has been marked by Islamabad’s “countless sacrifices and unprecedented level of cooperation with the US … Read : Pak’s anti-terror determination should not be doubted: Pak envoy to US.

Sarah Palin encounters brown bear on fishing trip

LONDON – Sarah Palin had an encounter with a brown bear while she was on a fishing expedition in Alaska.

Palin saw a mother bear with her cubs during her salmon fishing expedition in Alaska, reports the Telegraph.he 46-year-old politician was on a boat with her husband, Todd, their nine-year-old daughter, Piper, and friends in Wolverine … Read : Sarah Palin encounters brown bear on fishing trip.

Kiwi school has two students – they belong to principal!

MELBOURNE – A school in New Zealand is struggling to stay open after the number of students dropped to just two – the principal’s children.

Paerau School in Central Otago, New Zealand, has only two students who are the children of principal Steve Harley.he board of the school is now planning to offer a year …. Read the original article  : Kiwi school has two students – they belong to principal!.

US rejects motion for withdrawal of ’secret’ American troops operating in Pak

WASHINGTON – US lawmakers have rejected a blunt challenge to President Barack Obama’s war strategy, defeating a resolution calling for American troops’ removal from Pakistan by a crushing 38-372 margin.

The resolution proposed by Democratic Representative Dennis Kucinich and Republican Representative Ron Paul would have required the Obama administration to pull American military trainers out of …. Original article  : US rejects motion for withdrawal of ’secret’ American troops operating in Pak.

The WikiLeaks expose: A wake up call for India

NEW DELHI – The international flavour of the week seems to be the WikiLeaks expose of the documents concerning the operations against the Al Queda and its allies in Afghanistan.

The New York Times reported on Sunday, July, 18, 2010, that military field documents included in the leak suggest that Pakistan has been allowing “representatives of … Original source on Gaea Times at : The WikiLeaks expose: A wake up call for India.

Islamabad crash plane’s ‘no-fly zone’ route puts doubts over Pak air defence system

ISLAMABAD – The speculation that a Pakistani domestic airliner entered a no-fly zone in Islamabad before crashing on Wednesday morning, and the failure of the authorities concerned to react for intercepting the plane has raised question marks over the country’s air defence system.

When asked to comment as to why the authorities did not intercept …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pentagon reviewing leaked classified documents to minimise risks to Afghans

WASHINGTON – The Pentagon is reported to be reviewing tens of thousands of classified battlefield reports made public this week about the war in Afghanistan to determine whether Afghan informants were identified and could be at risk of reprisals.

Pentagon spokesman, Col. David Lapan, said that a Pentagon assessment team had not yet drawn any conclusions, … Read more >>>.

‘No evidence of Sikh militants operating from Kuala Lumpur’

KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Police has rebutted Punjab Police accusations that the Sikh separatist group, Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), has set up a base outside Kuala Lumpur.

There is no evidence to support a recent claim by Punjab Police that the KLF is operating from here, said a high-ranking police officer.

“We can confirm there is …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘No evidence of Sikh militants operating from Kuala Lumpur’.

Restoration for Konkan Railways Interrupted by Rain

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Normal railway movement along the Konkan Railway will be not possible before July 31th.Reports suggest that the tracks are heavily damaged at Nivsar in Ratnagiri district.
The managing director of the Konkan Railway Corporation Limited, expressed concerns that the restoration work may be delayed further owing to heavy rainfall in the [..] Read the original article: here.

Karzai says release of secret US documents by WikiLeaks endangers Afghans helping coalition

Karzai: Release of secret docs endangers Afghans

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan President Hamid Karzai says the release of secret documents have endangered the lives of Afghan citizens who have cooperated with the international forces.
Karzai said Thursday that he has ordered his Cabinet ministers to study the more than 90,000 secret U.S. military documents on the Afghanistan … Original source on Gaea Times at : Karzai says release of secret US documents by WikiLeaks endangers Afghans helping coalition.

NHS pays for Brit Muslim virginity operations

LONDON – An increasing number of British Muslim brides are having controversial pre-marriage “virginity repair” operations at taxpayers expense.

According to the Daily Express, British taxpayers funded 116 hymen replacements on the NHS between 2005 and 2009.

Official figures revealed that there were 30 operations in 2009 – up 25 per cent from 24 in 2005.

Private … Original article on : NHS pays for Brit Muslim virginity operations.

UK Police probing migration racket behind 360 sham marriages

LONDON – Police in Britain are reportedly investigating an international multi-million-pound racket to help thousands of illegal immigrants stay in the country after a vicar was found guilty of conducting hundreds of sham marriages.

The Reverend Alex Brown, of St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex, joined Ukrainian Vladymyr Buchak and Nigerian Michael Adelasoye is reported to have to …. Original article  : UK Police probing migration racket behind 360 sham marriages.

Walt Disney Co. agrees to sell Miramax Films for $660M; deal ends six-month bidding process

Disney sells Miramax to investor for $660 million

LOS ANGELES – The Walt Disney Co. says it will sell Miramax Films to an investor group for about $660 million, ending a 17-year association with the studio and a six-month bidding process.
The New York Times and Los Angeles times report that Disney signed the agreement late Thursday …. Source article  : Walt Disney Co. agrees to sell Miramax Films for $660M; deal ends six-month bidding process.

S Y Quraishi assumes charge as 17th CEC

NEW DELHI – SY Quraishi on Friday took over as the 17th Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India.

He takes over from Navin Chawla, who held the post for one-and-a-half years.

He said the Commission had held a series of discussions among expenditure observers to find out the areas it could focus on to strengthen checks and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : S Y Quraishi assumes charge as 17th CEC.

Winston Churchill’s false teeth fetch ???15,200 at Norfolk auction

LONDON – The false teeth made specially to preserve Sir Winston Churchill’s lisp have been sold for 15,200 pounds at an auction in Norfolk.

The dentures, which were sold by the son of dental technician Derek Cudlipp, who had made them for Churchill, were expected to fetch a maximum of 5,000 pounds at the Keys in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Winston Churchill’s false teeth fetch ???15,200 at Norfolk auction.

Obama should never have gone on ‘The View’, says former-co-host

WASHINGTON – Rosie O’Donnell, former co-host of American talk show ‘The View’, is not too keen on President Barack Obama’s decision to appear with the ladies on the show.

Talking on her Sirius XM radio show Wednesday, the day before Obama’s episode aired, O’Donnell, 48, said that she’s not sure if Obama should go on fluffy … Read more : Obama should never have gone on ‘The View’, says former-co-host.

India, Pakistan Indus Water Commissioners hold meeting to resolve water dispute

Raja Sansi (Amritsar, Punjab),J – Indian and Pakistani officials have met in New Delhi to discuss their water-related disputes, and have said that talks between the two countries will continue.

Pakistan’s Indus Waters Commissioner Syed Jamaat Ali Shah told ANI here that a permanent solution of the water dispute would decrease tension between the two nations.

He …. Original article  : India, Pakistan Indus Water Commissioners hold meeting to resolve water dispute.

Former students fined after pleading guilty to charges in racist video case in South Africa

Ex-students fined in SAfrica racist video case

JOHANNESBURG – A South African court is ordering four white former students to pay fines for a video they made humiliating black university employees.
The case has prompted bitter protests that racism remains entrenched in South Africa more than a decade after the end of apartheid-era rule.
The Bloemfontein court on … Read : Former students fined after pleading guilty to charges in racist video case in South Africa.

Lebanese family dispute over royalties threatens to silence beloved Arab singer Fairouz

Family feud could silence beloved Lebanese singer

BEIRUT – Across four decades, Fairouz’s songs of freedom, justice and love transfixed Arab audiences, moved millions to tears and gave hope to the Lebanese during the darkest days of their 15-year civil war.
At 75, the Lebanese singer still performed, seemingly impervious to age – until now, when a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Lebanese family dispute over royalties threatens to silence beloved Arab singer Fairouz.

‘Russian beautician’ busted for arms smuggling hid scopes in Ugg boots

NEW YORK – A woman, who was arrested in Texas for trying to smuggle night-vision riflescopes into Russia, hid the contraband in a pair of Ugg boots, say prosecutors.

Anna Fermanova, the Latvian-born, America-raised, belly-button-pierced beautician, says she was just doing a favour for her husband’s friend, who wanted to sell the 15,000-dollar gear to hunters, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Russian beautician’ busted for arms smuggling hid scopes in Ugg boots.

Clashes in Srinagar, two injured

SRINAGAR – Clashes broke out in several parts of Srinagar after a youth was seriously injured in security forces firing at Chanpora area on Friday.

The condition of the injured is stated to be critical.

With the separatists giving the March call to Maisuma, authorities imposed restrictions on the movement of people in parts …. Original source  : Clashes in Srinagar, two injured.

Despite Republican’s edge ahead of mid term polls, Americans feel it wont bring ‘positive change’

WASHINGTON – Despite the Republicans leading the Democrats by an 11 percentage-point margin 100 days ahead of the midterm polls, a majority of Americans believe that a Republican takeover of Congress would not lead to positive change, according to a Fox News poll.

Thirty-eight percent of the voters think that there would be no real …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Despite Republican’s edge ahead of mid term polls, Americans feel it wont bring ‘positive change’.

Sword made to commemorate the carrying of Robert the Bruce’s heart auctioned for 10K pounds

EDINBURGH – A sword created to commemorate the carrying of Scottish King Robert the Bruce’s heart on a crusade has been auctioned for 10,000 pounds.

Commissioned by a nobleman in memory of the final battle waged by Robert the Bruce’s most trusted captain, it has passed down generations of the aristocratic Douglas family into the hands … Read more >>.

Blue Paper says China leads world in urbanization

NEW DELHI – China’s urban population has reached 46 percent of the total population, making it the largest such population in the world, according to a ‘Blue Paper’ released on Thursday.

By the end of 2009, China’s urban population reached 620 million as both the annual birth rate and the total urban population became the world’s … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Blue Paper says China leads world in urbanization.

China rejects West standards on human rights

BERLIN – Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Fu Ying has said that his government remains opposed to attempts by the West to impose its human rights standards on China.

In a recent interview with the German weekly newspaper Die Zeit, Fu said it seems “controversial and illogical” that Western countries acknowledge China’s economic success and contributions to … Original source on Gaea Times at : China rejects West standards on human rights.

Pakistanis see India as greater threat than Taliban, Al-Qaeda: Poll

ISLAMABAD – A new poll has revealed that the people of Pakistan see India as a greater threat to their country than the Taliban or Al-Qaeda.

According to the Pew Global Attitudes Project poll, 74 percent Pakistanis view India as a serious threat, compared to 54 percent considering the Taliban and 38 percent viewing the Al …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hero’s welcome for reality show winner in Agra

AGRA – The crowd went into raptures and accorded a hero’s welcome to local boy Sparsh Srivastav as he returned to this Taj Mahal city Friday after winning the children’s dance reality show “Chak Dhoom Dhoom” on Colors channel.

As Sparsh alighted from the Shatabdi Express, he was welcomed with the beating of drums and nagadas …. Original article  : Hero’s welcome for reality show winner in Agra.

Parrot’s piercing screech scares off burglars!

LONDON – A parrot scared off a gang of burglars when it screeched loudly.

Thieves were shocked to see Kuzya, the parrot when they tried breaking-in the house in London’s Docklands.

The parrot let out a piercing screech that could be heard streets away, prompting the robbers to turn on their heels and flee.

Owner Gennadi Kurkul …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Parrot’s piercing screech scares off burglars!.

Calling obese people ‘fat’ won’t help them, say experts

MELBOURNE – Doctors telling obese people they’re ‘fat’ will only put them off from seeking help, according to experts.

According to the Herald Sun, Harry Hemley, Victorian president of the Australian Medical Association was the lone voice in the debate, saying that calling some overweight and obese people fat could be the nudge they needed to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Calling obese people ‘fat’ won’t help them, say experts.

Oz man who raped a woman he met on dating site jailed for 3yrs

SYDNEY – A man has been jailed for three years after he raped a woman he met on an Internet dating site.

Melbourne’s Roy Hronas had consensual sex with the woman before he raped her, the Victorian County Court was told at his sentencing.

According to Judge Paul Lacava, the pair met on an Internet dating site …. Read the original article  : Oz man who raped a woman he met on dating site jailed for 3yrs.

Experts urge US to improve nuke sleuthing abilities

WASHINGTON – America’s ability to track down illicit nuclear material or conduct a timely investigation of a terrorist attack involving nuclear materials is at risk of serious erosion, according to a panel of experts attending a National Research Council meeting.

“Without strong leadership, careful planning, and additional funds, these capabilities will decline,” the Christian Science Monitor …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Experts urge US to improve nuke sleuthing abilities.

UNSC removes five ‘unimportant’ Taliban names from sanctions list

NEW YORK – The United Nations Security Council has removed the names of Taliban from its sanctions list, saying they are not as much of a threat. Three of them have already made peace with Kabul, and the other two are dead.

A New York Times report said they were among a list of 20 … Read this article on Gaea Times at : UNSC removes five ‘unimportant’ Taliban names from sanctions list.

Malaysia gets its first Imam via ‘X-Factor’ inspired reality show

KUALA LUMPUR – Muhammad Asyraf Mohd Ridzuan, 26, an imam from Penang has won Imam Muda- a new reality show, on the lines of ‘X Factor’, which has gained global attention.

Asyraf beat Hizbur Rahman Omar Zuhdi in the finale held at Pusat Islam to become show’s inaugural winner.

He won a scholarship to Al-Madinah International University … Read more : Malaysia gets its first Imam via ‘X-Factor’ inspired reality show.

Women banned from wearing mini-skirts to work

LONDON – Women in Britain’s offices have been banned from wearing mini-skirts to work, and people involved in “customer-facing roles” have been told to look more professional “in a way that shows respect to children and families”.

Around 400 staff in Southampton City Council’s children’s services department received a memo telling them they should dress respectfully …. Original source  : Women banned from wearing mini-skirts to work.

UK ad with slogan ‘We sell big knockers’ banned

LONDON – A door and window company has been forced to take down an ad that says ‘we sell big knockers’.

The ad by Tricketts of Merthyr Tydfil in South Wales showed the woman’s breasts discreetly covered by a pair of doorknockers.

An Advertising Standards Agency report said that a woman had complained that the ad was … Original article on : UK ad with slogan ‘We sell big knockers’ banned.

Use ‘colourful language’ like Jesus to save Christianity, urges Vicar

LONDON – If Christianity is going to be taken seriously, it needs to ‘modernize’ and start using the ‘f word’ and other swear words more frequently, says a Vicar.

Reverend Michael Land claims that everyone should follow Jesus – who he claims did not have the politest of the languages.

“The reality is that he was poor, … Original article on : Use ‘colourful language’ like Jesus to save Christianity, urges Vicar.

Indiana cop pays $5 entry fee to make arrest at fair

MELBOURNE – An Indiana policeman was reportedly made to pay an entry fee of five dollars to enter the LaPorte County Fair so that he could make an arrest.

According to the Herald-Argus, LaPorte County Sheriff’s Department Sergeant Mike Kellems tried to get into the fair to take an escapee into custody just after 5 in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Indiana cop pays $5 entry fee to make arrest at fair.

Somali Jihadis launch online news channel to promote terrorist propaganda

NEW YORK – Somalia’s Al Qaeda-backed militant group Al-Shabab has launched an on-line “news” channel called Al Kataib, and its first propaganda newscast, in English, uses graphic footage to warn African countries to stop sending troops to Somalia.

The launch comes as U.S. and Somali officials warn of Al Shabab’s increased sophistication, and strengthening ties … Read more : Somali Jihadis launch online news channel to promote terrorist propaganda.

No plans to send combat troops to Pak to hit terror havens: US

WASHINGTON – The Unites States has brushed aside Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai’s suggestion of a NATO operation inside Pakistan to strike at Taliban safe havens in the country.

“We have no plans to send US combat forces to Pakistan,” The Daily Times quoted P.J. Crowley, U.S. State Department spokesman, as saying.

Crowley also … Read more »»».

English council bans mini-skirts in office

MELBOURNE – A council has warned its women employees not to wear short skirts to office or else they could be sent home.

An order released by bosses at Southampton City Council, in southern England, has asked the council’s 400 staff members to dress suitably for work.

Social workers, youth workers and other employees in the council’s …. Original source  : English council bans mini-skirts in office.

Obama calls on Iran to free three detained American hikers

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has called on Iran to free three American hikers it detained one year ago.

He also said that Sarah Shourd, Shane Bauer and Josh Fattal never worked for the U.S. government and were people who have demonstrated open-mindedness and a desire for social justice.

According to Politico, Iran recently … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Obama calls on Iran to free three detained American hikers.

Indian Mughal jewellery exhibition opens in Kuala Lumpur

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian King Mizan Zainal Abidin opened an exhibition showcasing Mughal era jewellery in Kuala Lumpur last weekend.

The “Treasury of the World: Jewelled Arts of India in the Age of the Mughals” exhibition displays historic jewellery from the personal collection of Sheikh Nasser Sabah al-Ahmed al-Sabah and wife, Sheikha Hussah al-Sabah of Kuwait, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Global support pours in for Iranian ’stoning to death verdict’ woman

LONDON – Human rights activists and supporters of Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani, the Iranian woman whose sentence of death by stoning on ‘adultery charges’ was lifted earlier this month and changed to hanging, have asked for global support to reunite her with her children on her appeal.

“Put Sakineh’s picture beside Neda Agha-Soltan’s and don’t let …. Original source  : Global support pours in for Iranian ’stoning to death verdict’ woman.

India, US sign nuclear reprocessing pact

WASHINGTON – Taking another step towards the implementation of the 2008 Indo-US civil nuclear deal, the two countries have signed an agreement on reprocessing spent nuclear fuel.

Indian Ambassador to the US Meera Shankar and U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs William Burns signed the agreement at a US State Department ceremony on … Original source on Gaea Times at : India, US sign nuclear reprocessing pact.

Heavy rains disrupt normal life in Delhi, NCR

NEW DELHI/GURGAON/NOIDA – A heavy downpour on Saturday disrupted normal life in Delhi and the National Capital region (NCR).

Though it provided relief to residents,commuters had a tough time passing through waterlogged areas.

Office goers had a harrowing time reaching their places of work due to huge traffic snarls.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted huge …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Heavy rains disrupt normal life in Delhi, NCR.

Afghan war logs: Wikileaks’ editor Assange denies ‘blood on (his) hands’

LONDON – The founder of the website Wikileaks, Julian Assange has rejected US claims that he has blood on his hands after releasing over 90,000 leaked classified documents on the Afghan war.

Julian Assange told the BBC there was no evidence that any informants had died as a result of the leaks.

He accused the Pentagon …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Afghan war logs: Wikileaks’ editor Assange denies ‘blood on (his) hands’.

Afghan women fear Taliban resurgence: NYT

NEW YORK – As Afghan and Western governments explore reconciliation with the Taliban, Afghan women fear that the peace they long for may come at the price of rights that have improved since the Taliban government was overthrown in 2001.

“Women do not want war, but none of them want the Taliban of 1996 again; …. Original article  : Afghan women fear Taliban resurgence: NYT.

Row over Royal Mail’s only for Muslim loos

LONDON – A row has erupted after the Royal Mail introduced loos for Muslims at one of its biggest centers.

According to the Daily Express, special “Nile pans” have replaced two normal loos at one of the north’s largest post processing plants.

About half the staff at the Manchester Mail Centre is Asian, but most cannot … Read more : Row over Royal Mail’s only for Muslim loos.

Violence continues in curfew-bound Kashmir, toll four

SRINAGAR – Violence escalated in the Kashmir Valley Saturday as an irate mob attacked a police camp in north Kashmir Baramulla district and the Sopore railway station, defying curfew restrictions, even as the death toll rose to four since Friday. Three protesters were injured in firing by security forces.

The four killed in firing by security …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Violence continues in curfew-bound Kashmir, toll four.

Germany to hold memorial service for victims of Love Parade

Germany: memorial service for Love Parade victims

DUISBURG, Germany – Germany is holding a memorial service for the victims of the Love Parade techno music festival, where 21 people were crushed to death and 500 injured.
The memorial service is to be held Saturday at Salvator Church and shown live on screens in a football stadium and … Read more »».