Musharraf won’t come to Pakistan this year: Report

ISLAMABAD – Former Pakistan president Pervez Musharraf won’t be coming to Pakistan from Britain for the launch of his newly-formed party this year, a media report said.

It was earlier decided that Musharraf will come to Pakistan for the launch of his newly-formed party, the All-Pakistan Muslim League (APML), in September.
Daily Times Monday cited sources …. Original article  : Musharraf won’t come to Pakistan this year: Report.

Sri Lanka opens China-funded Hambantota seaport

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka has opened a new seaport in southern Hambantota, which has been built with Chinese assistance as part of a six billion dollar drive to rebuild infrastructure after the war.

The port has four terminals, two for cargo and two for fuel bunkering. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sri Lanka opens China-funded Hambantota seaport.

Rajouri encounter against militants ends after three days

RAJOURI – An encounter between militants and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri District finally came to an end on Monday, but not before an army soldier and a Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) militant were killed.

Reports said the search operation is still on in the area.

Earlier today, … Read more >>.

New party offers Malay Indians fresh political alternative

KUALA LUMPUR – The Human Rights Party of Malaysia (HRP) aims to emerge as an alternative platform for the Malay Indian community to help uplift their socio-economic status, the Malaysia Nanban and The Star reports.

Party secretary-general P. Uthayakumar said 15 parliamentary and 38 state assembly candidates would be … Original article on : New party offers Malay Indians fresh political alternative.

Parliament adjourned twice over farmer deaths

NEW DELHI – Both houses of Parliament were repeatedly adjourned on Monday as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Samajwadi Party (SP) protested the killing of two farmers in police firing in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura District.

The Lok Sabha was first adjourned till …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Parliament adjourned twice over farmer deaths.

Foreign troop death toll in Afghanistan rises to over 2,000

LONDON – The death toll of foreign troops in nearly nine years of the Afghan war has crossed the 2,000 mark, according to the independent icasualties.org website. ccording to the Telegraph, 2,002 members of international forces have been killed since the US-led invasion in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Foreign troop death toll in Afghanistan rises to over 2,000.

NATO says weekend air strike killed al-Qaida operative in Afghanistan

NATO says al-Qaida operative killed in Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – An al-Qaida operative has been killed in an air strike in Afghanistan, NATO forces said Monday.
The military coalition had said previously that it killed two insurgents with Sunday’s strike on a pickup truck fleeing the site of a gunfight with police in northern Kunduz province.
NATO identified …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Eminent Marathi poet Narayan Surve dead

THANE – One of eminent Marathi poets who was honoured with Padma Shri Narayan Surve passed away in Thane Monday after a brief illness, family sources said. He was 83.

A self-made man, Surve was orphaned soon after his birth. He lived on the streets of Mumbai and earned his daily bread by doing odd jobs. …. Original article  : Eminent Marathi poet Narayan Surve dead.

UK men don’t want girlfriends to go topless

LONDON – A survey has found that British men are against their girlfriends sunbathing topless but have no problem with other women baring all.

The survey by travel agent sunshine.co.uk, showed that as many as 56 percent of men would not allow their partner to go topless while on holiday, and that 89 percent had no …. Original source  : UK men don’t want girlfriends to go topless.

Petraeus refuses to be bound by Obama’s decision on US exit date from Afghanistan

LONDON – The commander of International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan, General David Petraeus has refused to be bound by the July 2011 deadline for withdrawing US troops from the country, reserving the right to seek a delay, if conditions demand.

Gen Petraeus said the Afghan mission was tough and would remain so.

“The president has … Read more »».

Burmese Army procures radios from Perth, evading Oz govt. sanctions

MELBOURNE – The Burmese Army has procured radio sets from a Perth-based company by evading Australian Government sanctions in order to scramble its communications.

Barrett Communications has been selling radio sets directly in response to tenders by Burma’s Ministry of Defence, contradicting suggestions by the company it was selling radios to civilian Burmese government agencies, according … Original article on : Burmese Army procures radios from Perth, evading Oz govt. sanctions.

Kashmir under curfew for fourth consecutive day

SRINAGAR – The Kashmir Valley was under curfew for a fourth consecutive day Monday, after four youths were killed on Friday in clashes between protestors and the police.

Curfew was imposed in Srinagar, Sopore and Bandipora to prevent any violence at these places.

Restrictions imposed in other towns like Baramulla, Anantnag, Pulwama and Handwara would … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Kashmir under curfew for fourth consecutive day.

Cabinet approves scheme for adolescent girls

NEW DELHI – The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) today gave its approval for implementation of the Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Girls -”SABLA”.

The scheme has been recommended by the Group of Ministers and aims at enhancing the nutritional and economic status of adolescent girls.

These districts will be selected using a …. Read the original article  : Cabinet approves scheme for adolescent girls.

CWC to finalise schedule for Congress President’s election

NEW DELHI – The Congress Working Committee (CWC) is expected to hold a meeting on Monday evening to finalise the schedule for the election of the Congress President.

Sonia Gandhi is set to be elected to the post for the fourth time in a row after taking over the reins of the Congress party in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : CWC to finalise schedule for Congress President’s election.

Cabinet defers decision on MPs’ salary revision

NEW DELHI – The Union Cabinet on Monday deferred its decision on a three-fold revision of salaries of Members of Parliament.

The proposal, pending since May 2006, is to hike MPs’ salaries from s 16,000 to Rs 50,000.

The bill also proposed a hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) from from Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000.

MPs currently …. Source article  : Cabinet defers decision on MPs’ salary revision.

Hindus laud Norway’s Oya Music Festival for environment friendliness

NEVADA – Hindus have applauded Norway’s Oya Festival (Oyafestivalen) for being a sustainable and green festival in an environmentally friendly zone, calling it “a step in the right direction”.

Noted Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, said that in view of global ecological crisis, musicians and artists should not stay silent … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Hindus laud Norway’s Oya Music Festival for environment friendliness.

‘Serious risks’ force Musharraf to postpone return to Pakistan

LAHORE – In what can be seen as a setback for former Pakistan President General Pervez Musharraf’s political ambitions, it is being reported that he will not come back to Pakistan this year.

According to The Daily Times, Musharraf has decided to steer his newly-formed party, the All-Pakistan Muslim League (APML), from London, and …. Read the original article  : here.

Task force resolves first 1,000 Malay Indians socio-economic cases

KUALA SELANGOR – A special task force appointed by the Malaysian Government’s Cabinet Committee for the Indian Community, has reportedly resolved the first 1,000 cases involving various social problems related to the Malay Indian community.

Under the “1Malaysia People-Friendly Programme”, various government departments and agencies converged at Dewan Harmoni Simpang Tiga in Ijok on Sunda to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Task force resolves first 1,000 Malay Indians socio-economic cases.

Human Rights Watch says Kyrgyzstan’s army abetted ethnic violence against minority Uzbeks

HRW says Kyrgyz army involved in ethnic violence

BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan – A prominent rights groups says Kyrgyzstan’s armed forces abetted and may even have actively taken part in deadly violence by ethnic Kyrgyz mobs against the minority Uzbek community.
The report released Monday by New York-based Human Rights Watch is the most ambitious attempt yet at an … Original article on : Human Rights Watch says Kyrgyzstan’s army abetted ethnic violence against minority Uzbeks.

Bagging ‘far buried’ bin Laden in Pak-Afghan border still top US priority: Petraeus

WASHINGTON – Commander of United States-led NATO forces in Afghanistan, General David Petraeus, has said that Al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden is “far buried” in the remote mountains between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

“I don’t think anyone knows where Osama bin Laden is. The fact that it took him four weeks to get a congratulatory message …. Source  : Bagging ‘far buried’ bin Laden in Pak-Afghan border still top US priority: Petraeus.

Two ULFA militants killed in Assam

GUWAHATI – Two United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) militants were killed in a gun battle with the security forces in Assam’s Goalpara District on Monday.

Based on specific inputs about the presence of two ULFA militants in the area, army and police commandos raided the area and … Original article on : Two ULFA militants killed in Assam.

Sindh CM admits failure on flood victim protection policies

ISLAMABAD – Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah has admitted that the Pakistan Government has failed to formulate policies and strategies for protecting people facing flood related threats.

Blaming irrigation experts and the departments concerned for not being efficient in providing timely information and guidance, he …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sindh CM admits failure on flood victim protection policies.

“Honeymoon suite” opened for two rare Asian one-horned rhinos in Nepal

KATHMANDU – Nepal has opened a “honeymoon suite” for two rare Asian one-horned rhinos in one of its zoos in an attempt to encourage the pair’s matting.

According to the BBC, both rhinos, Kancha (20) and Kanchi (22), have lived together in captivity for 18 years, but … Read more : “Honeymoon suite” opened for two rare Asian one-horned rhinos in Nepal.

US court puts debate on same-sex marriage on hold again

WASHINGTON – The Ninth US Circuit Court of Appeals has added another twist in the saga of gay marriages, on Monday by granting a stay order in the Proposition 8 case, prohibiting same-sex wedding from taking place in California at least until December, overruling last Thursday’s ruling …. Source article  : US court puts debate on same-sex marriage on hold again.

Brazil honors ‘Girl from Ipanema’ writer, former diplomat Vinicius de Moraes

Brazil honors ‘Girl from Ipanema’ writer
BRASILIA, Brazil – Brazil has posthumously given the rank of ambassador to a poet and songwriter who penned the famous Bossa Nova anthem, “Girl from Ipanema.”

The Foreign Ministry bestowed the honor on Vinicius de Moraes, a one-time diplomat who was the poetic force behind Bossa Nova in the 1960s.
Moraes was …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

51 killed, 119 injured in Baghdad suicide bomb blast

London, Aug.17 (ANI): At least 51 people have been killed and a further 119 injured after a suicide bomber blew himself up among dozens of Iraqi army recruits in Baghdad.

A Daily Express report revealed that the massive blast took place just outside the former Iraqi ministry of defence building that now …. Source  : 51 killed, 119 injured in Baghdad suicide bomb blast.

Orthodox Russian entrepreneur warns employees to stop ‘living in sin” or lose jobs

London, Aug 17 (ANI): Russian business tycoon and devout orthodox believer Vasily Boiko-Veliki, also referred as Vasily Boiko-The Great, has stirred a controversy by asking his employees, who might staying with an … Read : Orthodox Russian entrepreneur warns employees to stop ‘living in sin” or lose jobs.

‘Murdering’ Muslims should not be allowed to build mosque near Ground Zero: Critics

New York, Aug.17 (ANI): A retired New York Fire Department deputy chief has criticised the city administration for going ahead with a plan to build an Islamic culture centre and a mosque near Ground Zero, the place where nearly 3,000 Americans …. Source  : ‘Murdering’ Muslims should not be allowed to build mosque near Ground Zero: Critics.

States should make human rights commissions more effective: NHRC

New Delhi, Aug.17 (ANI): National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Chairperson Mr. Justice K.G. Balakrishnan said on Tuesday that all state governments should take steps to strengthen their state human rights commissions.

Addressing a meeting of representatives of state human rights commissions here, Justice Balakrishnan said a mere setting up of state human rights commission … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : States should make human rights commissions more effective: NHRC.

Sohrabuddin case: Amit Shah’s bail hearing deferred till August 30

Ahmedabad, Aug 17 (ANI): The hearing on the bail plea of former Gujarat Home Minister Amit Shah, who was arrested in connection with the Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case, was adjourned till August 30.

When the case came up for hearing in the court of CBI Judge G K Upadhyay, Amit Shah’s lawyer Mitesh Amin requested … Original article on : Sohrabuddin case: Amit Shah’s bail hearing deferred till August 30.

Property honcho denies Islamic leaders abandoning Ground Zero mosque plans

New York, Aug.17 (ANI): The owner of New York’s Soho Properties has rejected suggestions that the Muslim community plans to abandon building a cultural centre and a mosque near Ground Zero, the place where nearly 3000 Americans were killed in 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Fox News quoted property owner Sharif El-Gamal as saying: “This is completely incorrect. …. Read the original article  : here.

Sri Lanka asks Canada to share intelligence on Tamil migrants

Toronto/Colombo, Aug.17 (ANI): Sri Lanka has reportedly urged Canada to share more of its intelligence on human smuggling operation with ties to the Tamil Tigers.

Sri Lankan High Commissioner to Canada Chitranganee Wagiswara was quoted by the Globe and Mail as saying in an interview on …. Source article  : Sri Lanka asks Canada to share intelligence on Tamil migrants.

Blondes ’still the butt of jokes’

London, Aug 17 (ANI): Blonde women are still saddled with prejudice, according to Norwegian journalist and TV presenter Mariella Frostrup.

The 47-year-old media person said that she would have thought twice about going blonde at 16, when her father’s death left her grey, if she had known then what her shade of choice suggested to the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Blondes ’still the butt of jokes’.

Pakistani singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s death anniversary goes unnoticed

Lahore, Aug 17 (ANI): The 13th death anniversary of Pakistani singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan went largely unnoticed in Lahore as no ceremony was organized in the city to pay tribute to him.

The worst floods of the history of Pakistan and continuous rains in main cities of the country also prevented music lovers to pay …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistani singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s death anniversary goes unnoticed.

Australia triples Pak flood aid to 35 million dollars

Sydney, Aug 17(ANI): Australian has decided to raise its aid to flood-ravaged Pakistan by 24 million dollars to bring its total commitment to 35 million dollars.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard announced that the money would support emergency humanitarian relief efforts in the country.

It is estimated that the floods have affected up to 20 million people, while …. Original article  : Australia triples Pak flood aid to 35 million dollars.

Death toll in China’s fireworks factory explosion rises to 19

New Delhi, Aug 17 (ANI): The death toll in Monday’s explosion at a fireworks factory in China’s Heilongjiang province has climbed to 19, with five missing and another 153 injured.

The incident took place on Monday morning at the factory in the Wumahe District of Yichun City.

It killed nine of the factory’s 51 workers and … Read : Death toll in China’s fireworks factory explosion rises to 19.

Lok Sabha adjourned till 2 p.m over UP farmer death protests

New Delhi, Aug 17 (ANI): The Lok Sabha was adjourned till 2 p.m on Tuesday after lawmakers refused to allow proceedings to progress in protest against the death of three farmers in police firing in Uttar Pradesh’s Aligarh and Mathura regions.

Citing across party affiliations, leaders condemned the police action against the farmers and alleged … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Lok Sabha adjourned till 2 p.m over UP farmer death protests.

Canadian charities concerned about poor aid flow to flood-hit Pak

Toronto, Aug.17 (ANI): Coordinators for a four-member humanitarian aid coalition have expressed their distress over the poor inflow of funds to aid flood victims in Pakistan.

So far, this coalition of charities has received only 200,000 dollars, which is insignificant when a comparison is made with the 3.5 million dollars collected for victims of the January …. Original source  : Canadian charities concerned about poor aid flow to flood-hit Pak.

Violence along Gaza border wounds 2 Israeli soldiers day after Palestinian militant was killed

Violence near Gaza border wounds 2 Israeli troops

JERUSALEM – The Israeli military says two of its troops have been lightly wounded by a mortar shell fired from Gaza.
The incident came a day after Israeli troops killed a Palestinian militant who the military said was planting a bomb along the border.
A small Palestinian group, known as … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Violence along Gaza border wounds 2 Israeli soldiers day after Palestinian militant was killed.

Four more US choppers arrive in Pak for flood relief operations

Islamabad, Aug.17 (ANI): The United States has sent four more CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters to assist in the ongoing relief and rescue operations in flood hit areas of Pakistan.

Currently there are 18 US military and civilian aircraft in Pakistan assisting in flood relief operations.

According to a press statement issued by the US embassy here, eight …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Four more US choppers arrive in Pak for flood relief operations.

Julia Roberts says she isn’t in need of her own ‘Eat Pray Love’ journey

‘Eat Pray Love’ star Julia Roberts happy as is

TOKYO – Julia Roberts isn’t planning isn’t planning a spiritual journey of her own after making the film based on the hit travel memoir “Eat Pray Love.”
Roberts, a happily married mother of three, said she read and enjoyed Elizabeth Gilbert’s best-seller long before the proposed movie script …. Source  : Julia Roberts says she isn’t in need of her own ‘Eat Pray Love’ journey.

Civil Nuclear Liability report tabled in Parliament

NEW DELHI – A parliamentary committee looking into the Civil Nuclear Liability Bill tabled its report in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday amid protests from the Left.

The report was tabled in the Rajya Sabha by Committee Chairman T Subbirami Reddy, and in the Lok Sabha, by Pradeep Tamta.

The report was …. Original source  : Civil Nuclear Liability report tabled in Parliament.

President Patil to inaugurate International Mathematicians Congress in Hyderabad

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Devisingh Patil will visit Hyderabad on Wednesday evening to inaugurate the International Mathematicians Congress, which would be held from August 19 to 27.

The International Mathematical Union is organizing the Congress in collaboration with the University of Hyderabad.

Over 3000 delegates from all over the world are taking part in the nine-day … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : President Patil to inaugurate International Mathematicians Congress in Hyderabad.

Archdiocese urges New York authorities to rebuild destroyed 9/11 church

NEW YORK – The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America has criticised New York officials for concentrating their efforts on getting plans approved for building a controversial mosque near Ground Zero, and turning their backs on facilitating the reconstruction of the only church destroyed in the 9/11 attacks.

The tiny, four-story St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church was … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Archdiocese urges New York authorities to rebuild destroyed 9/11 church.

Thief’s butt leaves him stuck in window for 6 hours

LONDON – A burglar in Britain landed himself in a hilarious predicament after he got stuck for six hours in a tiny window of a house he was trying to break into.

The thief, who had tried to squeeze in through the window between 2am and 3am, was found when the householder saw his head and …. Source  : Thief’s butt leaves him stuck in window for 6 hours.

Half of Brits’ daily conversations are completely pointless: Study

LONDON – A new study has revealed that nearly half of British people’s daily conversations are completely pointless.

The typical Briton has 27 conversations every day but only 43 per cent of them – or 12 chats – can be deemed “meaningful” or “important”, reports the Daily Express.

The study also found the traditional pub is still … Read more : Half of Brits’ daily conversations are completely pointless: Study.

President greets people ahead of Parsi New Year

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil today greeted the people of the country on the occasion of the Parsi New Year, which will be celebrated tomorrow.

In her message, President Patil said: “On the joyous occasion of Navroz, I extend my greetings and good wishes to all my fellow citizens, especially my Parsi sisters and brothers.”

“May …. Source  : President greets people ahead of Parsi New Year.

Tributes paid in Delhi to Kannada journalist Sridhar Achar

NEW DELHI – A large number of Kanada writers, journalists, artists, professors and academicians on Wednesday paid their rich tributes to veteran Kannada journalist Sridhar Achar, who breathed his last at Bangalore on August 14.

In the condolence meeting organized by ‘Dehali Kannadiga’, a Kannada monthly published from Delhi, its editor M B Samaga said: “Achar … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tributes paid in Delhi to Kannada journalist Sridhar Achar.

Aircraft violates Air Force One airspace

SEATTLE – Fighter jets were scrambled to intercept an aircraft that had violated restricted airspace around Air Force One as President Barack Obama visited Seattle on Tuesday.

Politico quoted North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) spokesman John Cornelio as saying that jets were sent from Portland, Oregon, as the president was visiting Seattle after a report …. Read the original article  : Aircraft violates Air Force One airspace.

Palin attacked by “Mama Grizzlies”

NEW YORK – Pro-abortion rights group-EMILY’S List – has launched a campaign suggesting that America’s so-called “Mama Grizzlies” – a phrase coined by former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin to describe her supporters – don’t all come from Palin’s side of the political spectrum.

“Throughout this cycle, Sarah Palin has predicted a rising tide of mothers …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Palin attacked by “Mama Grizzlies”.

China raises Bruce Lee to rival NY’s Liberty

BEIJING – Chinese artists are creating a 30-metre-tall sculpture of Bruce Lee which they hope will one day become a landmark on the scale of the Statue of Liberty in New York.

The red-painted ceramic statue being made by sculptors in Foshan city in Guangdong province that bills itself as the home of Chinese kung fu, … Original article on : China raises Bruce Lee to rival NY’s Liberty.

Tripartite talks on Gorkhaland end positively

NEW DELHI – Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) Secretary Roshan Giri, who led the 7th secretarial level tripartite talks with the Bengal Government in New Delhi has said the meeting was successful.

“The meeting was successful. Most of the subjects we raised have been considered. Now we just have to talk about the territories of Terai and … Read more >>>.

Illegal mining row: Parliament adjourned till noon

NEW DELHI – Both houses of Parliament were adjourned till noon on Wednesday following an uproar over the illegal mining issue in Karnataka.

As soon the house met for the day, Bahujan Samaj Party members trooped into the Well waving placards demanding the dismissal of the BJP-led government in Karnataka.

As the uproar continued, Speaker Meira Kumar … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Illegal mining row: Parliament adjourned till noon.

Confusion over LTTE and civilian casualties: Lanka Defence Secretary tells probe body

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka’s Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa has said confusion prevails in the minds of many over how many casualties in the Eelam War IV that was waged from August 2006 to May 2009, were civilian and how many were LTTE causalities.

Testifying before Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission, Rajapaksa, who is the brother … Read : Confusion over LTTE and civilian casualties: Lanka Defence Secretary tells probe body.

China creating eight-legged Bruce Lee sculpture to compete with Statue of Liberty

BEIJING – Chinese artists in Foshan, a city in Guangdong province, are creating a red painted 30-meter-tall and eight-legged sculpture of legend Bruce Lee, which they hope would eventually be recognised as a landmark very much like the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbour.

According to China Daily, the ceramic statue depicts an eight-legged Bruce … Read more »».

Chandigarh police attempting to get hold of two girls in hit and run case

CHANDIGARH – The Chandigarh police has sent out teams across the city to catch two girls involved in the killing of two persons, including a child, in a road accident in a high-security area of the city on Tuesday evening.

The two girls were travelling in a Honda Accord car, which hit a motorbike in Chandigarh’s …. Read the original article  : Chandigarh police attempting to get hold of two girls in hit and run case.

Ex-US Ambassador warns of Taliban, Al-Qaeda takeover of inundated Pak

WASHINGTON – As the world expresses concerns over the massive aid being flown into Pakistan for the flood victims landing into the Taliban’s hands, former United States Ambassador to Pakistan Wendy Chamberlin has warned of a nightmarish situation where the Al-Qaeda and the Taliban could take advantage of the chaos created by the deluge.

Chamberlain, who …. Original source  : Ex-US Ambassador warns of Taliban, Al-Qaeda takeover of inundated Pak.

Sonic Boom Shakes Up Seattle

SEATTLE (GaeaTimes.com)- The security of US President Barack Obama is kept stringent at all times and whenever he visits any place for whatever reason the security level in that place is also stepped up. However, this can land the residents and others in trouble at times. The president visited Seattle for two fundraising events … Read more »».

US frustrated with Zardari’s political free-fall following poor flood relief response

WASHINGTON – The United States is frustrated by Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari’s falling political popularity following his government’s slow response to the deluge, which has submerged almost one-fifth of the nation, American officials have said.

The Obama administration, which is working hard to work together with the Pakistan government to allay the wide spread anti-American …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Peshawar police nabs two would be suicide bombers

PESHAWAR – The Peshawar police has claimed arresting two would be suicide bombers during raids conducted in the Mathra area of the city.

According to reports, the two bombers identified as Jangriz and Sameen are residents of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) Mohmand region.

The raids were conducted after officials received a tip-off regarding the bombers …. Read the original article  : Peshawar police nabs two would be suicide bombers.

Campaign to recycle chewing gum into car tyres, toys launched in UK

LONDON – A campaign that aims to recycle chewing gum into car tyres, toys and mobile phone covers has been launched in Hereford.

The campaign has been started to encourage people to put their gum in special “Gumdrop” bins, which have also been made from the sticky stuff.

Under the six-month trial, the bins are being placed … Read more : Campaign to recycle chewing gum into car tyres, toys launched in UK.

Morphy Richards toaster still popping after 63yrs

MELBOURNE – The Morphy Richards toaster, which was given as a wedding present to British man Andrew Martin and his young bride, is still popping after more than 60 years.

Today, the sprightly 83-year-old still makes toast in it every morning.

“I’ve never had a problem with it. I think I’ve had to replace the element once …. Read the original article  : here.

Experts question efficacy of handing US military tasks in Iraq to civilians in 2011

WASHINGTON – With the United States military preparing to leave Iraq by the end of 2011, the Obama administration is reportedly preparing to hand over the lead to civilians.

However, administration officials and experts outside the government insist that carrying out the agreement will be challenging.

One American official said that over 1,200 specific tasks …. Original source  : Experts question efficacy of handing US military tasks in Iraq to civilians in 2011.

Brits spend 7hrs a day on TV, Internet, mobile phones

LONDON – The Office of Communications in Britain has revealed that Britons spend seven hours a day watching TV, surfing the net and using their mobile phones.

From data collected, the average person actually squeezes in the equivalent of nearly nine hours of media and communications by multi-tasking on several devices.

The statistics, which come from industry …. Source article  : Brits spend 7hrs a day on TV, Internet, mobile phones.

North Korea confirms seizing South Korean boat

PYONGYANG – North Korea confirmed Thursday, 11 days after a South Korean boat with seven people on board had gone missing, that it had seized the fishing trawler.

According to a report of the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the boat, with four South Koreans and three Chinese aboard, was intercepted by the North Korean …. Original source  : North Korea confirms seizing South Korean boat.

Somnath, Khushwant, Rajendra Prasad hit the shelves (IANS Books This Week)

NEW DELHI – This week’s book rack boasts of some heavyweight names. Former speaker Somnath Chatterjee, acclaimed writer Khushwant Singh or former Indian president Rajendra Prasad…take your pick.

1. Book: “Keeping the Faith”; Written by Somnath Chatterjee; Published by Harper-Collins India; Priced at Rs.499 …. Source article  : Somnath, Khushwant, Rajendra Prasad hit the shelves (IANS Books This Week).

40 injured as bull leaps into packed stands at Spanish bullring and runs amok

Bull leaps into bullring stands in Spain, 40 hurt

MADRID – Regional officials say 40 people were injured when a bull leapt into the packed grandstands of a Spanish bullring and ran amok.
Video shown on Spanish media outlets Thursday shows the bull jumping 10 meters (yards) from the ring into the stands causing panic as he …. Original article  : 40 injured as bull leaps into packed stands at Spanish bullring and runs amok.

Taiwan seeks F-16s to boost defence

TAIPEI – Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou called Thursday on the US to sell F-16s to Taipei to boost the island’s defences after the Pentagon said this week that China is gaining military superiority over Taiwan.

“Taiwan people’s top concern is Taiwan’s security,” Ma said. “I hope the US can cautiously consider selling F-16C/Ds to Taiwan as …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Taiwan seeks F-16s to boost defence.

Oz judge orders Muslim witness to remove burqa in front of jury

PERTH – An Australian judge has ordered that a 36-year-old Muslim woman must remove her traditional face-covering burqa while giving evidence before a jury in a fraud case.

The woman is due to give evidence for the prosecution in the fraud trial of a Muslim college director Anwar Sayed.

Perth District Court Judge Shauna Deane said that … Read more >>>.

Russia hopes to boost economic ties with Pakistan: Medvedev

SOCHI – Russia hopes to develop economic cooperation with Pakistan, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev told his Pakistani counterpart Asif Ali Zardari here on Wednesday.

“We would like to continue cooperating in fighting terrorism, drug trafficking and international crimes. That’s why everything we discussed earlier could be continued, even though [we have] good political dialogue, it is …. Read the original article  : Russia hopes to boost economic ties with Pakistan: Medvedev.

International aid not enough to cope with Pak’s catastrophe: UN

NEW YORK – The United Nations (UN) has expressed concern over the slow pace of international aid donations for the Pakistan floods, saying the relief being offered is not sufficient to deal with the country’s worst disaster.

“The scale of the response is still not commensurate with the scale of the disaster of almost unprecedented magnitude,” [..] Read the original article: here.

US fears deluge will allow terrorists to play havoc with its Pak policy

WASHINGTON – The devastating floods in Pakistan , which have been stamped as the country’s worst in the last 80 years, has hit the Obama administration’s strategy concerning the ‘problem country’ hard, American officials have said.

The United States has had to face a tough situation dealing with a weak democratic government and a powerful … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US fears deluge will allow terrorists to play havoc with its Pak policy.

Centre to consider lifting ban on sugar futures : Pawar

NEW DELHI – Union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar on Thursday said the Central Government will consider lifting the ban on sugar futures trading in the first week of September, after assessing its production situation.

The government had banned the trading in sugar futures in May 2009 and the suspension is valid till September 2010.

“I will get … Read more »»».

World Photography Day 2010 Celebrates The Art

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Today the world celebrates the captured moments that rekindles the best memories from the past. August 19 is celebrated as the Word Photography and it is not only an important day for the professional photographer but also for all those who have taken up the camera once in a while … Read more »»».

North Korea confirms it seized SKorean boat, 7 crew, alleges they were fishing in North waters

NKorea confirms it seized South fishing boat, crew

SEOUL, South Korea – North Korea confirmed Thursday it seized a South Korean fishing boat more than a week ago and claimed the seven crewmen admitted to fishing in its waters.
South Korea had been pushing for the release of the four South Korean and three Chinese fishermen it …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

12,000 foreign ’sex slaves’ working in British brothels: Report

LONDON – A new report has revealed that up to 12,000 foreign women are being forced to work as ’sex slaves’ in British brothels by gangs running multi-million pound rackets.

According to the report commissioned by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), at least 2,600 women were confirmed as being trafficked into England and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 12,000 foreign ’sex slaves’ working in British brothels: Report.

One in five Americans thinks Obama is a Muslim: Survey

WASHINGTON – A new survey has found that nearly one in five Americans incorrectly believe that President Barack Obama is a Muslim.

Obama’s religion, like his place of birth, has been the subject of Internet-spread rumours and falsehoods since before he began his presidential campaign.

According to a new Pew Research Center survey, 18 per cent of …. Original article  : One in five Americans thinks Obama is a Muslim: Survey.

Lankan Tamils still under Canadian detention due to documents mix-up

TORONTO – Sri Lankan Tamil migrants, who arrived from the MV Sun Sea in British Columbia last week, are still in detention as their identities are not yet confirmed and they will have to wait until Canadian immigration authorities sift through the documents and belongings inside two U-Haul trucks.

After seizing their belongings, authorities failed to …. Source article  : Lankan Tamils still under Canadian detention due to documents mix-up.

Vuvuzela, chill pill, bromance enter Oxford Dictionary of English

LONDON – The African horn ‘vuvuzela’ has made its way to the Oxford Dictionary of English after becoming the sound of the World Cup.
The word vuvuzela, included in the third edition of the dictionary, has only been used commonly since the summer when the long horn began to be heard at the World Cup matches … Read more : Vuvuzela, chill pill, bromance enter Oxford Dictionary of English.

Omar Abdullah calls Asiya Andrabi a hypocrite

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has called Asiya Andrabi, the chief of the separatist Dukhtaran-e-Millat, a hypocrite.

“Andrabi, the Dukhtaran-e-Millat chief, whose son had applied for a passport to study in Malaysia, has been saying that the youth in the valley should give up their studies and make ’sacrifices for the … Read more >>.

Divers set to resume efforts to pull rare World War II dive bomber from California reservoir

Mud delays efforts to extract WWII plane from lake

SAN DIEGO – Salvage divers say thick mud slowed their efforts to pull out a rare WWII dive bomber from a San Diego reservoir.
Crews will resume their efforts to extract the Helldiver on Friday.
After working all day Thursday, divers couldn’t remove enough mud and debris to enable [..] Read the original article: here.

US military lowers troop figure in Iraq

BAGHDAD – The US military command in Baghdad said Friday that the number of forces still in Iraq was 52,000, lower than the figure given the day before under the final pullout of combat troops.

A figure Thursday was given of 56,000 soldiers still in Iraq. But the military command said that was based on data … Read more »».

Google defends its ‘Street View’ feature against privacy concerns in Germany

Google defends its ‘Street View’ in Germany

BERLIN – Google Inc. is defending its “Street View” feature against sharp criticism in Germany saying it has gone a long way to address people’s privacy concerns.
Google’s vice president for Northern and Central Europe, Philipp Schindler, told Thursday’s mass circulation daily Bild the company had found a unique data … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Google defends its ‘Street View’ feature against privacy concerns in Germany.

‘People’s Tribunal’ to deliberate on Kandhamal riot victims complaints

NEW DELHI – The National Solidarity Forum (NSF) has announced plans for holding a three-day “people’s tribunal” from August 22 to 24 here to address and hear grievances of victims of communal violence in Orissa’s Kandhamal District.

A jury of eminent persons will preside over the deliberations of the tribunal. Among the jury members likely to … Original article on : ‘People’s Tribunal’ to deliberate on Kandhamal riot victims complaints.

Japan Foreign Minister to visit India

NEW DELHI – The Foreign Minister of Japan, Katsuya Okada, will undertake a two day visit of India, and will meet External Affairs Minister S. M. Krishna on Saturday.

The two are likely to discuss bilateral, regional and global issues during the Fourth Round of the India-Japan Strategic Dialogue.

Foreign Minister Okada will also call on …. Original source  : Japan Foreign Minister to visit India.

Maoists blow up government buildings in Dantewada District

DANTEWADA – Maoists blew up several government buildings, including an Aanganwadi centre, a primary school, a society for dispensing rations, and a village council hall on Thursday in Kirandul city in Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada District.

“There were buildings of a society, one primary school, a village council hall and an Aanganwadi centre, and they were blown up … Original article on : Maoists blow up government buildings in Dantewada District.

Interim council will not dilute demand for separate State: Gorkha Janmukti Morcha

DARJEELING – A delegation of the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM), a forum crusading for the formation of a separate Gorkhaland state, said the interim council would not, in any way, dilute their demand for a separate State.

A delegation led by General Secretary of the GJM, Roshan Giri, visited New Delhi this week to attend a … Original article on : Interim council will not dilute demand for separate State: Gorkha Janmukti Morcha.

Men travel 276 miles a year lost on the roads: UK study

LONDON – A new UK poll has revealed that men are far less likely than women to admit that they have lost their way.

Men tend to travel an average 276 miles a year aimlessly driving around lost rather than asking for directions, it was found.

More than a quarter wait at least half an hour before … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Men travel 276 miles a year lost on the roads: UK study.

Parliament adjourns following uproar over MPs”poor’ salary hike

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha was adjourned till 2 p.m on Friday after lawmakers from various parties stalled house proceedings seeking more money.

Members of the Samajwadi Party (SP), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Janata Dal-United (JD-U) and other parties protested over the “minimal” hike and demanded that the proposed increase by the Cabinet be taken …. Original source  : Parliament adjourns following uproar over MPs’ ‘poor’ salary hike.

Pak deluge, a ’slow motion tsunami’: Ban Ki-moon

LONDON – Describing Pakistan’s catastrophic floods as a “slow tsunami”, United Nations (UN) General Secretary Ban Ki-moon has appealed to the international community for more aid to provide immediate food, shelter, and clean drinking water to the millions of affected people.

Addressing a special UN general assembly, Ki-moon called Pakistan floods a global disaster which would …. Original source  : Pak deluge, a ’slow motion tsunami’: Ban Ki-moon.

‘Politically victimised’ Fonseka ‘expects jail term’ in 2nd court martial over corruption charges

LONDON – Former Sri Lankan armed forces Chief, and the defeated presidential candidate, Sarath Fonseka has alleged that he is a victim of political vendetta and expects a second court martial to impose a jail sentence on him on corruption charges.

He is under investigation for the alleged irregularities in military purchases by the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Politically victimised’ Fonseka ‘expects jail term’ in 2nd court martial over corruption charges.

Israeli, Palestinian leaders to be invited to U.S. for peace talks

WASHINGTON/VINEYARD HAVEN – World leaders are planning to invite Israeli and Palestinian officials to Washington in September to begin direct Middle East peace talks, a U.S. official confirmed Thursday.

An invitation from the United States, the European Union, Russia and the … Read more >>>.

National Disaster Response Force to have more battalions

NEW DELHI – The Union Cabinet today approved the upgradation of two additional battalions for National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).

The proposal approved by the Cabinet includes upgradation/conversion of two …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Palin makes another grammatical error by misusing the word ‘cackle’ in a tweet

NEW YORK – Looks like Sarah Palin is taking English grammar to another level altogether-after likening herself to Shakespeare by coining the word ‘refudiate’, she has now made another verbal slip when she tweeted the phrase “cackle of rads” on Wednesday – the 90th anniversary of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Palin makes another grammatical error by misusing the word ‘cackle’ in a tweet.

US Holocaust Museum criticizes Romania’s central bank for minting ‘anti-Semitic’ coin

US museum slams Romania for ‘anti-Semitic’ coin

BUCHAREST, Romania – The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum has criticized Romania’s central bank for refusing to withdraw from circulation a coin featuring an image of a prime minister who stripped Jews of their citizenship before World War II, calling the decision “insensitive” to the memory of hundreds of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Violence claims 11 lives in Karachi following ANP leader’s murder

KARACHI – Violence and arson once again returned to Karachi with 11 persons being killed and 16 others injured following the murder of Awami National Party (ANP) office bearer, Ubaidullah Yousufzai.

Yousufzai was gunned down along with one of his colleagues near the Quaid-e-Azam International Airport resulting in large scale violence in the financial capital which … Read more >>>.

‘Kite camera’ captures bird’s eye view of Taj Mahal

LONDON – Ever wondered how the Taj Mahal must look to a bird in the sky? An innovative photographer, who tied his camera to a kite and flew it over the majestic monument, gives you just that – a bird’s eye view.

Nicolas Chorier from Pondicherry, India, cast a new light on buildings including the Taj … Read more »».

Cabinet clears salary hike of MPs

NEW DELHI – The Union Cabinet on Friday approved a bill to hike MPs’ salary from current Rs 16,000 to Rs 50,000.

The decision comes few days after the Union Cabinet deferred its decision on the proposed three-fold increase.

The Bill will now be placed in Parliament for final approval.

The Parliament on Wednesday witnessed … Read : Cabinet clears salary hike of MPs.

Eleven Manipuri rebels arrested in Guwahati

GUWAHATI – Eleven United National Liberation Front (UNLF) militants, including two women cadres, were arrested in Guwahati on Thursday.

The arrests were made from Hengerabari, Borbari, Chachal and Mathgharia areas of the city by a security forces team.

Among those held are several top leaders of the outfit, including two self-styled lieutenant colonels, two majors and …. Original article  : Eleven Manipuri rebels arrested in Guwahati.

Environment ministry committee to discuss mining projects report

NEW DELHI – The Environment Ministry’s Forest Advisory Committee will meet today to discuss recommendations of the N C Saxena panel report that seeks a ban on the mining projects of UK-based Vedanta Resources in Orissa.

The committee will be submit its recommendations to Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh, after which a final decision will be … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Environment ministry committee to discuss mining projects report.

War veterans jeer Blackpool woman who urinated on memorial, performed sex act nearby

LONDON – A woman, Wendy Lewis, who urinated on a war memorial in Blackpool and performed a sex act nearby, has been barracked by war veterans who called the act “disgusting” at the town’s magistrates court, after which she left the building before the hearing began.

According …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : War veterans jeer Blackpool woman who urinated on memorial, performed sex act nearby.

Army chief wants exit of UN mission in Nepal

KATHMANDU – The Nepal Army has told the government not to extend the term of the UN Mission in Nepal (UNMIN).

Chief of Army Staff, General Chatraman Singh Gurung, is reported to have met Peace and Reconstruction Minister Rakam Chemjong late Friday to convey the army’s stand on the mission.

According to the Kathmandu …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Army chief wants exit of UN mission in Nepal.

Pak flood victims supplied drinking water containing tadpoles at relief camp

KARACHI – The dreadful condition under which flood affected people in relief camps in Pakistan’s Sindh province are being forced to live has come to light with reports of tadpoles being found in drinking water supplies at these camps.

Flood victims, who have taken shelter at the Maymarabad camp, complained that tadpoles were seen in … Original article on : Pak flood victims supplied drinking water containing tadpoles at relief camp.

Bangladesh frees 1,000 prisoners to ease overcrowding in jails

DHAKA – Bangladesh has freed nearly 1,000 prisoners to ease pressure on the country’s crammed jails.

The nation’s 67 prisons currently accommodate three times their capacity, with 77,000 prisoners in facilities designed for a maximum of 28,000 people.

The Telegraph quoted Bangladesh Home Secretary Iqbal Khan Chowdhury, as saying: “We have drawn up a list of nearly …. Read the original article  : Bangladesh frees 1,000 prisoners to ease overcrowding in jails.

Chinese police arrests six suspects, 41 others in melamine milk scandal

BEIJING – Chinese police have arrested six suspects and 41 others who allegedly participated in distributing melamine-contaminated milk after a national crackdown in 2008.

According to the food safety authorities in China, the melamine-tainted milk powder was first discovered in Gansu Province. Dongyuan Dairy Factory in Minhe County of neighboring Qinghai Province reportedly is the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chinese police arrests six suspects, 41 others in melamine milk scandal.

Muslim-born Miss USA is against Ground Zero mosque

NEW YORK – Reigning Miss USA Rima Fakih has spoken out against the Ground Zero mosque.

Fakih, 24, is the first Muslim winner of the Miss USA contest and is preparing for the Miss Universe Pageant, scheduled for August 23 in Las Vegas.

“I totally agree with President Obama with the statement on Constitutional rights of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Team Modi has four new ministers

GANDHINAGAR – Eyeing civic polls scheduled in October 2010, Gujarat Chief Minister Narender Modi on Saturday administered oath of office to four new ministers.

Vasuben Trivedi, Praful Patel, Pradeepsinh Jadeja and Kanubhai Bhallala have been inducted in his council of Ministers, taking the existing list of ministers from 17 to 21.

The four were administered oath at …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Team Modi has four new ministers.

After 600 years, world’s oldest clock ‘to be wound by hand for the last time’

LONDON – The world’s oldest mechanical clock is to be wound by hand for the last time next week.

The clock at Wells Cathedral in Somersetthat that has been wound by hand every week for 600 years will now be fitted with an electric motor.

The change comes following the retirement of the last member of a [..] Read the original article: here.

UN sends SOS for more helicopters to save millions of flood victims in Pak

LONDON – The United Nations (UN) has said that it needs more helicopters to continue the relief and rescue work in flood-hit Pakistan, as it remains the only means to reach out to millions of affected people.

UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) spokeswoman, Emilia Casella, said the agency only has 10 helicopters at its disposal and [..] Read the original article: here.

Unwanted guest: Goat takes up residence in German home

LONDON – A couple in Germany were in for a rude shock when they came to check on their home that had undergone renovation. A goat had not only moved into their third-floor apartment, it had also chewed up and ripped their curtains.

The angry goat chased the couple out of the flat in Baden-Wurttemburg, Daily … Original article on : Unwanted guest: Goat takes up residence in German home.

A passive policy towards Pakistan is counterproductive (Re issue)

NEW DELHI – Pakistan, like any other country has to deal with a dynamic environment.

Today it has to contend with an unstable political spectrum and complex economic issues like the looming debt trap. Keen to project itself internationally as a victim of terrorism, it is engaged in the flagging war against terror. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : A passive policy towards Pakistan is counterproductive (Re issue).

Blackwater to continue obtaining security contracts after deal with State Department

NEW YORK – Controversial private US security firm, Blackwater, now known as Xe Services, has reportedly reached an agreement with the State Department, which would result in the firm paying a whopping 42 million dollars in fines for hundreds of violations of country’s export control regulations, but yet continue getting contracts for its services.

Though the …. Source  : Blackwater to continue obtaining security contracts after deal with State Department.

Nearly six in ten Americans oppose Afghan war

WASHINGTON – Nearly six in 10 Americans oppose the nine-year-old war in Afghanistan, even as President Barack Obama is sending more troops to fight in that country, according to the AP-GfK poll.

With just over 10 weeks left before nationwide elections that could define the remainder of Obama’s first term, 58 percent oppose Obama’s … Read more >>>.

Afghan Government will lead reconciliation process: Gen Petraeus

WASHINGTON – Top US commander in Afghanistan, General David Petraeus, has said the Afghan Government will lead the reconciliation process in the country.

President Barack Obama has increased the number of American troops to 93,000 in order to defeat the Taliban, but many foreign policy experts believe the only way to end the war is by …. Source article  : Afghan Government will lead reconciliation process: Gen Petraeus.

Amnesty urges Saudi authorities not to medically paralyze man in “retribution”

LONDON – Human rights group, Amnesty International, urged Saudi Arabian authorities on Friday not to medically paralyse a man in “retribution” for similar injuries he allegedly caused during a fight two years back.

According to the New York Post, Amnesty quoted reports, which revealed that a court in the northwest of the country had approached … Read more : Amnesty urges Saudi authorities not to medically paralyze man in “retribution”.

US wants Lockerbie bomber Megrahi to return to jail

LONDON – The United States has told Scottish authorities that 1988 Lockerbie bombing convict, Abdelbaset Ali al-Megrahi, should be brought back to prison to serve his term.

“”We’ve expressed our strong conviction that Megrahi should serve out the remainder – the entirety – of his sentence in a Scottish prison.” the BBC quoted President Obama’s …. Source  : US wants Lockerbie bomber Megrahi to return to jail.

China pledges more aid for flood-hit Pak after US’ appeal to “step up to the plate”

ISLAMABAD – Pledging more aid for flood-hit Pakistan, China has said it would be sending more relief material for the thousands of people affected by the worst deluge to have hit the country in the past 80 years.

China, which has already donated 8.8 million dollars towards flood relief, would be sending 1000 more tents …. Read the original article  : China pledges more aid for flood-hit Pak after US’ appeal to “step up to the plate”.

Curfew continues in tense Kashmir Valley

SRINAGAR – Authorities here imposed curfew in most parts of the Kashmir Valley on Saturday, following which, all the shops closed down and streets were left deserted.

Curfew was imposed in under the jurisdiction of the police stations of Batmaloo, Bemina, Qamarwari, Kralkhud, Nowhatta, Khanyar, MR Gunj, Safakadal, Rainawari, Maisuma, Shaheedgunj, Abi-Guzar and Kothibagh.

State authorities fear … Read : Curfew continues in tense Kashmir Valley.

Kalmadi seeks Indian Army’s assistance for 2010 CWG

NEW DELHI – Commonwealth Games Organising Committee Chairman Suresh Kalmadi has sought the help of Indian Army personnel for specific tasks to ensure a successful conduct of the 2010 Games.

Briefing media after a meeting of the Group of Ministers (GoM) here on Friday, Kalmadi said Union Urban Development Minister S Jaipal Reddy, who is also [..] Read the original article: here.

School principal under probe for ‘racial slur’ against Malay Indian students

PUTRAJAYA – Malaysia’s Education Ministry has set up a task force to investigate allegations that a school principal in Johor had made racial slurs against her students.

The headmistress was alleged to have made racist remarks to a multi-racial group of students during a pre-Merdeka celebration event on Aug 12, calling the non-Malays penumpang.

About 50 parents … Read this article on Gaea Times at : School principal under probe for ‘racial slur’ against Malay Indian students.

Soon, non-lethal weapons to tackle Kashmir rioters

SRINAGAR – Police and paramilitary forces deployed in the Kashmir Valley are set to change from lethal to non-lethal weapons like Taser guns, pellets and pepper balls after 62 civilians lost their lives in the ongoing unrest. But their efficacy is still in question.

An Indian Air Force (IAF) plane brought an assortment of non-lethal weapons …. Original source  : Soon, non-lethal weapons to tackle Kashmir rioters.

Malaysian women in their 20s now clamouring for Botox

KUALA LUMPUR – An average of five Malaysian women visit a plastic surgeon every week to give their faces a more ‘feminine’ shape.

However, the shocking fact is that rather than the middle-aged, it is women in their 20’s who ask for botulinum toxin …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Michelle Obama’s portrait to be placed at Smithsonian’s National Gallery

WASHINGTON – The portraits of US First Lady Michelle Obama and business magnate Martha Stewart would be reportedly placed at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery in Washington.

A New York-based artist Mickalene Thomas has crafted the portrait of Michelle Obama.

Obama’s …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Michelle Obama’s portrait to be placed at Smithsonian’s National Gallery.

WWI postcard: Germans demonised Scottish, Indo-Chinese and Sikhs as savage barbarians

EDINBURGH – A military historian, Matthew Low, has unearthed German propaganda postcard of the First World War which shows how the Kaiser’s army demonised Scottish soldiers and Indo-Chinese and Sikhs as savage barbarians.

Among those demonised also include Arabs and Africans.

“I was very excited to discover this card. It is a rare … Read more »»».

Oz World Vision Chief accuses Aussies of having “compassion blind spot” for Pak flood victims

WASHINGTON – World Vision Australia chief executive Tim Costello has said that Australians have a “compassion blind spot” when it comes to the Pakistan floods.

World Vision has raised about 785,000 dollars in the three weeks for the Pakistan disaster.

“A humanitarian disaster of this size anywhere else would have had, in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Oz World Vision Chief accuses Aussies of having “compassion blind spot” for Pak flood victims.

10-month-old Chinese baby weighs the same as a 6-yr-old

NEW DELHI – A Chinese baby, who is just ten months old, has become so chubby that he now weighs the same as a six-year-old child.

Lei Lei has been nicknamed ‘the Michelin Baby’ after tipping the scales at 20kg.

His mother Cheng Qingyu says that her son was a normal …. Read the original article  : 10-month-old Chinese baby weighs the same as a 6-yr-old.

British pop singer commits suicide at 22

LONDON – A British pop singer has apparently killed himself by leaping from a satellite mast.

Charles Haddon, 22, frontman for Ou Est Le Swimming Pool, had just played at the gig in Belgium on Friday.

He was said to be ‘very down’ after the gig at the … Original source on Gaea Times at : British pop singer commits suicide at 22.

‘Ground Zero’ imam on Mideast tour to ‘Americanize’ Islam

WASHINGTON – In the midst of the controversy, Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf, the organizer of the planned Muslim community center and a mosque in Ground Zero in Manhattan, is undertaking taxpayer-funded trip to the Middle East to spread good will and “Americanize” Islam.

According to The New York …. Source  : ‘Ground Zero’ imam on Mideast tour to ‘Americanize’ Islam.

Yet another day of shutdowns, restrictions in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Curfew continued in summer capital Srinagar, south Kashmir Bijbehara and north Kashmir Trehgam towns Sunday amid another shutdown called by separatists in the valley. Authorities are likely to lift restrictions from many places.

“Curfew is continuing in nine police station areas in Srinagar city, Bijbehara and Trehgam towns while restrictions are in place in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Yet another day of shutdowns, restrictions in Kashmir.

NCC cadets clean up oil spill off in Mumbai

MUMBAI – The National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets conducted a clean-up operation on the mangroves, which were all but destroyed due to the recent oil spill off the coast of Mumbai.

Around 300 cadets on Saturday tried to clean up the mangroves off the …. Original source  : NCC cadets clean up oil spill off in Mumbai.

GJM leader Nicole Tamang flees from CID custody

DARJEELING – Nicole Tamang, Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM) leader and the prime accused in killing of Madan Tamang, president of All India Gorkha League (AIGL), escaped from CID custody in Darjeeling’s Pintail Village on Sunday.

Nicole Tamang was being held at a CID camp near Siliguri … Read : GJM leader Nicole Tamang flees from CID custody.

‘Impotent’ Pak Govt. powerless to stop ‘terror outfit’ JuD’s ‘charity’ rampage

LONDON – Mocking the ban imposed by the Pakistan government on it, the Jamaat-ud-Daawa (JuD), the charity wing of the dreaded terror group-Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), is running relief camps in the flood-hit north western part of the country and providing the victims food, medicines and money.

The JuD, under … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Impotent’ Pak Govt. powerless to stop ‘terror outfit’ JuD’s ‘charity’ rampage.

Sweden withdraws rape warrant against Wikileaks founder Julian Assange

LONDON – Swedish authorities have withdrawn an arrest warrant against Wikileaks founder Julian Assange, stating that the accusation of rape against him was unfounded.

“I don’t think there is reason to suspect that he has committed rape,” The Telegraph quoted Chief Prosecutor Eva Finne, as saying while announcing the withdrawal … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sweden withdraws rape warrant against Wikileaks founder Julian Assange.

Israel says Iran’s nuclear programme ‘totally unacceptable’

LONDON – Israel has said that the fuelling of Iran’s first nuclear reactor is “totally unacceptable” and urged greater world pressure to force Tehran to stop any further uranium enrichment.

Iranian engineers reportedly began loading fuel into the country’s …. Original source  : Israel says Iran’s nuclear programme ‘totally unacceptable’.

Britain’s favourite countryside poems stirs controversy

LONDON – A search for Britain’s favourite poem on the countryside has stirred a controversy as it has left out literary icons like Shakespeare and Wordsworth.

The National Trust has shortlisted 10 poems that include lesser known poems but has omitted those of William Shakespeare and William Wordsworth, the Daily Telegraph reported.
Jo Bell, a poet … Read : Britain’s favourite countryside poems stirs controversy.

Tharoor-Pushkar tie knot in Kerala

PALAKKAD – Former Minister of State for External Affairs Shashi Tharoor on Sunday tied nuptial knots with his friend Sunanda Pushkar in a traditional Malayali wedding at his ancestral house in Palakkad.

Tharoor, tied the ‘thali’, symbolising the marital bond as per the Hindu custom, amid …. Read the original article  : here.

A comprehensive documentation of India-UAE ties (IANS Book Review)

Book: “India and the UAE: In Celebration of a Legendary Friendship”; Author: Venu Rajamony; Publisher: Indian Expressions Management Consultancy

Ties between India and the Arabian Gulf are now over 5,000 years old. The Gulf is today home to around five million expatriate Indians. Of them, around 1.5 million reside in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and … Read more »»».

Gunmen, Mexican police battle in Ciudad Juarez; 1 killed as El Paso shuts border highway

1 dead in Mexico shootout on border with El Paso

CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico – A shootout between Mexican police and gunmen has killed one person in Ciudad Juarez, across the border from El Paso, Texas.
Federal police spokesman Ramon Salinas says three municipal police officers were wounded.
The gunbattle lasted more than 20 minutes Saturday night on the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Gunmen, Mexican police battle in Ciudad Juarez; 1 killed as El Paso shuts border highway.

Egyptian official retracts statement, says stolen van Gogh not recovered, search continues

Search still on for van Gogh painting in Egypt

CAIRO – Egypt’s culture minister has retracted his statement that a stolen Vincent van Gogh painting has been recovered. He says authorities have in fact not found the missing artwork, and that the search for the painting continues.
The minister, Farouk Hosni, appeared on television and said his … Original source on Gaea Times at : Egyptian official retracts statement, says stolen van Gogh not recovered, search continues.

Blagojevich compares himself to a superhero during appearance at Chicago Comic Con

Ex-Gov. Blagojevich appears at Chicago Comic Con

ROSEMONT, Ill. – Former Ill. Gov. Rod Blagojevich compared himself to a superhero as he stood alongside folks dressed as Superman and Batman at the Chicago Comic Con.
Blagojevich said Saturday at the show in suburban Chicago that he draws inspiration from the superheros as he faces his own battles.
He … Original article on : Blagojevich compares himself to a superhero during appearance at Chicago Comic Con.