Spain interior minister dismisses ETA ceasefire announcement, says sign of weakness

Spain: we do not trust ETA ceasefire
MADRID – Spain’s interior minister has dismissed a ceasefire announcement by the Basque separatist group ETA and says police will be as tough as ever against the armed militants.

Alfredo Perez Rubalcaba says ETA’s statement on Sunday falls short of what Basque society and other Spaniards demand from the militant … Read : Spain interior minister dismisses ETA ceasefire announcement, says sign of weakness.

Pak teetering on the brink of complete economic breakdown: Finance Minister

ISLAMABAD – Providing a reality check on the shaky economic situation, Pakistan Finance Minister Dr. Hafeez Sheikh has said that the country is on the verge of a ‘complete economic breakdown’.

Dr. Sheikh further sought the cooperation of the federal and provincial governments to steer the nation out of the mess.

He made these remarks in a …. Original article  : Pak teetering on the brink of complete economic breakdown: Finance Minister.

Iran paying Taliban 1,000 dollar bounty for each US soldier’s head in Afghanistan

LONDON – Iran is reportedly paying bonuses of 1,000 dollars to the Taliban for killing an American soldier in Afghanistan and 6,000 dollars for destroying a U.S. military vehicle.

According to The Times, at least five Iranian companies in Kabul are using their offices covertly to finance Taliban militants in provinces near the capital.

Afghan intelligence … Read more : Iran paying Taliban 1,000 dollar bounty for each US soldier’s head in Afghanistan.

Oz voters favour fresh polls even as Independents dither over support

CANBERRA – In the midst of uncertainty as to who would form the minority government in Australia, with the three key Independent MPs are yet to take a decision, a majority of the citizens are now fed up with the posturing and dithering of the trio and are …. Original source  : Oz voters favour fresh polls even as Independents dither over support.

Cellar girl reveals her 3,096-day abduction rape and naked slavery horrors

LONDON – Austrian television host Natascha Kampusch, who is known for her abduction at the age of 10, will be releasing her autobiography detailing the ordeal she went through at the hands of her kidnapper.

Kampusch, 22, who had been kidnapped by Wolfgang Priklopil, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Cellar girl reveals her 3,096-day abduction rape and naked slavery horrors.

Pak Punjab Law Minister sheltering drug traffickers, land mafia, terrorists: PPP

LAHORE – Levelling allegations of sheltering drug traffickers, land grabbers and terrorists against Pakistan Punjab Law Minister Rana Sanaullah, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has urged Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif to seek his resignation.

Addressing a press conference in Lahore, PPP’s Punjab Information [..] Read the original article: here.

South Korean grandmother passes driving test after 960th attempt!

LONDON – The saying “you’re never too old to learn” has been proven true by a South Korean grandmother, who passed her driving test after a 960th attempt.

Cha Sa-soon, 69, whose surname means “vehicle” in Korean, has for three years since the beginning of April 2005, taken her driving test once … Original source on Gaea Times at : South Korean grandmother passes driving test after 960th attempt!.

Indian Army kicks off 15-day Trans-Himalayan motorbike expedition

LEH – The Indian Army has flagged off its 15-day Trans-Himalayan motorbike expedition from here with the aim of developing leadership qualities and fostering a spirit of adventure among the bikers of the 1st Ladakh … Read : Indian Army kicks off 15-day Trans-Himalayan motorbike expedition.

‘Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan plans to target prominent politicians on Eid’

PESHAWAR – Pakistani intelligence agencies have reportedly warned that the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is planning to target prominent politicians and important personalities on Eid.

According to sources, the intelligence agencies have collected …. Original article  : ‘Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan plans to target prominent politicians on Eid’.

India’s new super luxury train flagged off from New Delhi

NEW DELHI – India’s new super luxury train ‘Royal Rajasthan on Wheels’ was flagged off from New Delhi on Sunday.

It has several new destinations added to the itinerary as compared to the previous luxury train ‘Palace on Wheels’.

The new luxury train is a joint venture …. Source article  : India’s new super luxury train flagged off from New Delhi.

Bihar CM appeals to Maoists to give up violence

PATNA – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday expressed relief over the release of the three abducted cops, and urged the Maoists to abjure violence and come forward for talks.

“We are relieved at the release of three police officials. The Maoists must leave the … Read more >>.

Kathua District villagers complain of poor connectivity

KATHUA – Residents in several remote villages located near river Ujh in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua District have complained of poor connectivity and isolation due to lack of proper infrastructure.

Over 15,000 people live here and they say that despite …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kathua District villagers complain of poor connectivity.

North Korea to release South Korean boat, crew

SEOUL – North Korea said Monday that it would release seven South Korean crew members and their fishing boat, a month after they were taken into custody after Pyongyang said they had violated its maritime border.

State media called the violation “an intolerable infringement upon the sovereignty” of North Korea but the government decided to release … Read more : North Korea to release South Korean boat, crew.

Israeli FM says his party will block an extension of settlement slowdown, threatening talks

Israeli FM: Settlement slowdown will end
JERUSALEM – Israel’s hard-line foreign minister says his party will block any extension of Israel’s settlement slowdown, which could upend new Mideast peace talks.

Avigdor Lieberman says the Israeli government must keep its word that the 10-month slowdown will end at the end of September. He says his Yisrael Beitenu party …. Read the original article  : Israeli FM says his party will block an extension of settlement slowdown, threatening talks.

Iranian stoning-to-death woman ‘lashed 99 times’ for false picture published by Times

LONDON – The lawyer of an Iranian widow, Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani, who was sentenced to death by stoning for adultery, has claimed that she has been subjected to ‘99 lashes’ for “spreading corruption and indecency” in Tabriz prison after a false picture was published by the Times newspaper on 28 August this year for which …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rahul Gandhi to address Congress youth rally in Kolkata

KOLKATA – Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi will address a public rally here today as part of a Youth Congress membership drive launch.

The rally will take place in the Shahid Minar grounds from 1.30 p.m. Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee is also slated to attend.

Gandhi will meet the party’s student and youth wings at Bidhan Bhavan, …. Original article  : Rahul Gandhi to address Congress youth rally in Kolkata.

Four out of ten Brit men are domestic violence victims

LONDON – A new report has claimed that four out of ten victims of domestic violence in Britain are men and are often ignored by police who believe that a woman is the real victim.

The study comes at a time of complaints that men are treated unfairly by the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

The situation in Jammu and Kashmir: Jammu focus

NEW DELHI – Given the turbulent situation in the Kashmir Valley, it is hardly surprising that Jammu or Ladakh for that matter (till the recent disaster there), doesn’t find any mention in the national media, especially the electronic one.

However, just because Jammu is quiet today, even though it … Read more >>.

Wheelchair bound teenager performs world’s first double back flip

LONDON – A teenager in the US, who is wheelchair bound, has become the world’s first to do a double back flip in the device.

Aaron Fotheringham, 18, who is known to pals as Wheelz, performed his stunt in Woodward, Pennsylvania, US, after months of painful failed attempts.

“I kept on landing …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Wheelchair bound teenager performs world’s first double back flip.

Tory MP weeps after discovering his Brazilian wife was pounds 70-a-time prostitute

LONDON – A Tory MP has come into the spotlight after his Brazilian wife, who he was married to for seven years, was exposed as a 70 pounds-an-hour prostitute.

Mike Weatherley, 53, who came to power with Prime Minister David Cameron earlier this year, wept when he was confronted, and …. Original source  : Tory MP weeps after discovering his Brazilian wife was pounds 70-a-time prostitute.

BJP MP’s nephew arrested for role in Amit Jethwa murder case

AHMEDABAD – Shiva Solanki, nephew of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Dinu Solanki was on Tuesday arrested near the Rajkot airport in connection with the murder of RTI activist Amit Jethwa.

“We arrested Shiva Solanki while he was on his way to Mumbai,” said Police Crime [..] Read the original article: here.

US, FoDP investments in Pak linked to reforms for securing self-sufficiency

ISLAMABAD – The United States and the Friends of Democratic Pakistan (FoDP) have linked their investments in energy, reconstruction and water sectors in Pakistan to implementation of policy and management reforms, in order …. Original article  : US, FoDP investments in Pak linked to reforms for securing self-sufficiency.

30st Brit man cannot work in case he falls and crushes co-workers!

LONDON – A 30-stone British factory worker has given up working – in case he falls on his colleagues and crushes them.

Tubby Barry Fowers had to climb on platforms despite being prone to blackouts.

But he was considered a danger to himself and others and took an offer of …. Read the original article  : 30st Brit man cannot work in case he falls and crushes co-workers!.

Kerala hooch death toll rises to 19

MALAPPURAM – The death toll in the twin hooch tragedy in Kerala’s Malappuram district has risen to 19.

The death toll is likely to go up as more people who had consumed the killer brew.

A preliminary examination of samples taken from two toddy shops shows the presence of methanol in the … Read : Kerala hooch death toll rises to 19.

Auto Strike In Mumbai Disrupts Normal Life

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Normal life across cities in the country is likely to get adversely effected in the wake of the nationwide strike that has been called by trade unions affiliated to various opposition parties. Commuters were in for a harrowing time in the major metros such as the various means of transportation are going … Original source on Gaea Times at : Auto Strike In Mumbai Disrupts Normal Life.

WikiLeaks’ organisers want founder Assange to resign over rape, molestation charges

SYDNEY – WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is reportedly being pressurised by the management of his own website to step down after Swedish prosecutors reopened a rape investigation against him.

Moves are already afoot to oust Assange if he chooses not to step down voluntarily. Several WikiLeaks organisers, including Birgitta Jonsdottir who is also a parliamentarian …. Original article  : WikiLeaks’ organisers want founder Assange to resign over rape, molestation charges.

Brit inventor sets world record after driving dining table at 113mph

LONDON – A British inventor is believed to have set a world record for the fastest piece of furniture after he drove his dining table down a racetrack at more than 113mph.

Perry Watkins, 47, from Buckinghamshire, drove the Queen Anne table, named ‘Fast Food’, twice down a 500m track at Santa Pod, Nottinghamshire.

It reached … Read more >>>.

World’s shortest man faces challenge from world’s shortest teenager

LONDON – The world’s shortest man at the moment is facing fierce competition from the world’s shortest teenager.

Edward Nino Hernandez, 24, from Bogota, Colombia, who stands at just 27-inches, won the title of World’s Shortest Man on September 6.

But Hernandez does not have long to hold on to his title, as hot on his heels …. Source article  : World’s shortest man faces challenge from world’s shortest teenager.

Defence Minister Antony orders reprobe into Captain Kohli death

NEW DELHI – Defence Minister A K Antony on Tuesday assured the family of Shaurya Chakra awardee Captain Sumit Kohli, who died under mysterious circumstances four years ago in Kupwara, of a reprobe into his death.

In a letter sent across to Veena Kohli, Sumit’s mother, Antony said he has directed the defence ministry to …. Original article  : Defence Minister Antony orders reprobe into Captain Kohli death.

Bickering Afghans failing to lure Taliban defectors due to lack of money, leadership

KABUL – With Afghans bickering over who should run a 250 million dollar program to lure low-level Taliban fighters away from the insurgency, international donors have decided to go slow on putting up the money they had promised.

According to the New York Times, the United States has spent only 200,000 dollars of the promised [..] Read the original article: here.

Recent terror attacks reaction to Pak Army’s success: Qureshi

LISBON – Pakistan Foreign Minister, Shah Mehmood Qureshi, has said that the recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan are a reaction to the army’s success in anti-terror operations.

“It is a reaction to the successful operations we’ve had against the militants in Pakistan,” The News quoted Qureshi, as saying.

Qureshi, following …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Recent terror attacks reaction to Pak Army’s success: Qureshi.

French woman, 78, survives 6 days after falling down Alpine ravine

LONDON – A 78-year-old French woman survived for nearly a week after falling down a ravine on a walk in an Alpine forest before being found.

Michele Riotton, suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, said she remembers having “slipped into a ravine and then falling asleep” while on … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : French woman, 78, survives 6 days after falling down Alpine ravine.

Kullu hydropower project attracts villagers ire

KULLU – Residents of Malana village took out a rally in Kullu in protest against a hydropower project being set up by a private company.

The villagers have been demonstrating against the 100-megawatt Malana-II project, which is being constructed by the Everest Power Company Private Limited (EPPL) for the past ten days.

“Those who have undertaken this … Read : Kullu hydropower project attracts villagers ire.

Security personnel practice ‘water meditation’ to promote peace in Guwahati

GUWAHATI – Amidst fear of militancy and terrorism, two policemen in Guwahati have discovered a unique way to find peace through meditation by floating on water.

Munin Sharma (41) and Hitesh Sharma (43) of the Assam Police have been practicing this unique form of yoga to restore peace to the troubled state.

“I started practicing this … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Security personnel practice ‘water meditation’ to promote peace in Guwahati.

Rajasthan doctors strike partially withdrawn

JAIPUR – A section of doctors in Rajasthan, who are currently on strike against the alleged baton charging of medicos in Jodhpur, have called off their agitation after the authorities assured them of a thorough probe into the incident.

Senior doctors, medical teachers and private doctors withdrew their strike after the meeting with senior administration and …. Original source  : Rajasthan doctors strike partially withdrawn.

Delhi to host Global Oneness Day concert on September 11

NEW DELHI – Global Oneness Day will be celebrated in the national capital on September 11 this year.

According to Gautam Ghosh Collective, the organisers of the event, a Global Oneness Day concert will be held to promote oneness of religion, culture, language, nationality, caste and creed.

The concert will be held at the Olive next to …. Source  : Delhi to host Global Oneness Day concert on September 11.

Indian man pleads guilty to manslaughter of toddler Gurshan in Melbourne

MELBOURNE – A 23-year-old Indian man has pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of three-year-old toddler Gurshan Singh Channa, whose body was found near Melbourne Airport in March.

Gursewak Dhillon, who shared a home with Gurshan and his parents Harjit Singh and Harpreet Kaur Channa at the time of the murder, pleaded guilty in the Melbourne Magistrates’ …. Source article  : Indian man pleads guilty to manslaughter of toddler Gurshan in Melbourne.

Easier loans to students, investors on anvil: Kapil Sibal

BANGALORE – Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal has said the National Education Finance Corporation has been asked to provide easier credit rates to investors in the education sector and to facilitate flexibility in repayment of study loans by students.

Addressing a gathering at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) here on Monday, Sibal said: “To … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Easier loans to students, investors on anvil: Kapil Sibal.

Central team to visit W. Bengal’s drought-hit districts

NEW DELHI – A eight-member central team, headed by Joint Secretary in Union Agriculture Ministry E K Majhi, will visit drought-hit districts of West Bengal tomorrow.

They would call on Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee and later visit eight districts in two groups.

The first group will visit West Midnapore, Birbhum, Bankura and Purulia districts, and the …. Source  : Central team to visit W. Bengal’s drought-hit districts.

Kashmir violence: Four killed, curfew imposed

SRINAGAR – Jammu and Kashmir is tense again after four youths were killed and about seventeen injured in clashes with security forces on Monday.

Curfew has been clamped in eight police station areas of Srinagar city as violent protests continued till late last night.

Several police stations were attacked by angry protesters.

According to sources, several …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Green Tea Claims Under FDA Scanner

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- We all have heard about the benefits of green tea but it seems from the recent actions of FDA that some of the companies are just trying to cash in on the concept. In a recent development the US Food and Drug Administration has issued warnings to 2 leading FMCG brands …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Green Tea Claims Under FDA Scanner.

Sonia calls for education with technical inputs

NEW DELHI – Congress President Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday stressed upon the need to provide quality education to children with technical inputs.

Speaking at a function after inaugurating 31 Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas in various parts of the country, … Read : Sonia calls for education with technical inputs.

Hurriyat leader Geelani arrested in Srinagar

SRINAGAR – Syed Ali Shah Geelani, the leader of the hardline faction of the Hurriyat Conference in Kashmir, has been arrested from his residence in Srinagar city on Wednesday after he threatened to intensify the agitation in the Valley on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Jammu …. Original article  : Hurriyat leader Geelani arrested in Srinagar.

India shifts to ‘non-lethal’ force in Kashmir, but some protesters still die

‘Non-lethal’ force can be lethal in Kashmir
SRINAGAR, India – Protesters have a new name for the troops: Robots.
In Kashmir, troops now dress in high-tech black riot gear, covered head to foot in plastic armor that can make them look decidedly inhuman. They carry stun grenades, tear gas grenades and shotguns loaded with – …. Read the original article  : here.

‘Food secure’ Pak will now have to “start from scratch”, says UN official

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s ability to feed itself is in doubt after massive floods ravaged the “food-secure” country, and it may now have to “start from scratch”, Luigi Damiani, senior emergency and rehabilitation co-ordinator for the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization in Pakistan, has said.

“They have to start from scratch or even below scratch,” the … Read : ‘Food secure’ Pak will now have to “start from scratch”, says UN official.

Vishwanathan Anand honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award

CHENNAI – The Rotary Club of Madras conferred the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award on World Chess Champion Vishwanathan Anand here on Tuesday.

Accepting the trophy from S. Gunashekar, club president, Anand said, “I am deeply honoured to have received this award from an organisation that does so much good work”

“I am very proud and happy to …. Original article  : Vishwanathan Anand honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award.

Boxer Vijender Singh appreciates Commonwealth Games infrastructure

CHANDIGARH – Olympic bronze medallist boxer Vijender Singh has appreciated the infrastructure set in place for the upcoming Commonwealth Games.

Talking to reporters here on Tuesday, he said: “I think it (expenditure) is good on the stadiums and the infrastructure is also good.”

He also expressed his satisfaction with the preparations for the Games.

“The sportspersons got good …. Read the original article  : Boxer Vijender Singh appreciates Commonwealth Games infrastructure.

Mumbai ATS nabs two German Bakery blast suspects

MUMBAI – The Mumbai Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested two people in connection with the blast that ripped Pune’s German Bakery on February 13 this year.

Earlier on August 10, Maharashtra Home Minister R R Patil said the police have identified the culprits involved in the German Bakery blast.

“Police have identified those involved in the German … Read : Mumbai ATS nabs two German Bakery blast suspects.

Security think tank says west’s Afghan counter-insurgency strategy ‘ballooning out of proportion’

LONDON – The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) has claimed that the west’s counter-insurgency strategy has “ballooned” out of proportion to the original aim of preventing al-Qaeda from mounting terrorist attacks there, and must be replaced by a less ambitious but more sensible policy of “containment and deterrence”.

According to The Guardian, IISS has challenged [..] Read the original article: here.

Enough security being provided to Jayalalithaa : DMK

CHENNAI – The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Government in Tamil Nadu on Wednesday said enough security is being provided to former chief minister and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) leader J. Jayalalithaa in view of the alleged death threats received by her recently.

“Sometimes, threats by way of letters are issued even to the …. Source  : Enough security being provided to Jayalalithaa : DMK.

Union Cabinet to introduce Enemy Property Bill in winter session of Parliament

NEW DELHI – The Union Cabinet has decided to bring the Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Bill, 2010, in the winter session of Parliament, with the amendments suggested by the Central Government.

The Union Cabinet decided against re-promulgating an ordinance on enemy properties and instead agreed to take the parliamentary route after a long-hour heated discussion …. Original source  : Union Cabinet to introduce Enemy Property Bill in winter session of Parliament.

Sudarsan wins people’s choice prize in Canada

BHUBANESWAR – Orissa based sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik’s sculpture of Lord Ganesha won the people’s choice prize at the Canadian National Exhibition’s first international sand sculpting competition.

Pattnaik was the only Indian who participated in the competition held from Aug 20 to Aug 25 at Heritage city in Toronto.
The competition saw six artists from … Read more : Sudarsan wins people’s choice prize in Canada.

Geelani arrested from Srinagar residence

SRINAGAR – Hardline separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani was arrested from his home in this Jammu and Kashmir summer capital Wednesday.

Geelani, who heads the hardline faction of the Hurriyat Conference, was taken into preventive custody from his Hyderpora residence, a police officer said. He has been shifted to the Humhama police station in central Badgam …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Geelani arrested from Srinagar residence.

FBI: Thai Airways plane searched, no explosives or credible threat found, no arrests

FBI: Aircraft searched, no credible threat found

LOS ANGELES – Investigators found no explosives aboard a Los Angeles-bound Thai Airways flight in which a bomb threat was found scrawled on a bathroom mirror, the FBI said Wednesday.
Airport officials were notified at 7:15 p.m. Tuesday of the alleged threat, FBI spokeswoman Laura Eimiller said.
Flight 794 landed safely …. Read the original article  : FBI: Thai Airways plane searched, no explosives or credible threat found, no arrests.

Australia very reliant on foreign students to prop up varsity funding

MELBOURNE – Australia has the highest proportion of international students enrolled in its tertiary institutions in the world, suggesting that it is highly reliant on this student community strata to attract funding to institutions of higher learning, according to an international study.

The OECD’s Education at …. Original source  : Australia very reliant on foreign students to prop up varsity funding.

‘Tough talking”Munter’ to be new US ambassador to Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Cameron Munter, who was earlier posted in Baghdad as the political-military adviser to the US ambassador, is set to replace Anne Patterson as the next United States’ ambassador to Pakistan.

Though the White House has not made any official announcement, …. Source  : ‘Tough talking’ ‘Munter’ to be new US ambassador to Pakistan.

Fla. church adamant on burning Korans on 9/11 despite widespread outrage

LONDON – Despite being condemned by top US officials, a Florida evangelical church appears to be adamant to proceed with its plans to burn copies of the Koran on the ninth anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks, Earlier, Terry Jones, head of the 50-member Dove …. Source article  : Fla. church adamant on burning Korans on 9/11 despite widespread outrage.

‘I will go back to Indian Kashmir’, declares Gulshad Ahmed Butt

LONDON – Ashfaq Shaheed Camp President, Gulshad Ahmed Butt in a statement published in the daily Mahasib, which is published from Muzaffarabad, said Tuesday that he would like to go back to Indian Kashmir as things on the Pakistani side of Kashmir were worse in many ways.

“We …. Source article  : ‘I will go back to Indian Kashmir’, declares Gulshad Ahmed Butt.

FBI investigating bomb threat found on Thai Airways flight headed to Los Angeles from Bangkok

Bomb threat found on Thai Airways flight to LA

LOS ANGELES – Federal authorities were interviewing passengers and crew aboard a Los Angeles-bound Thai Airways flight from Bangkok after a bomb threat written in poorly worded English was spotted on a bathroom mirror on the plane, authorities said.
Flight 794 landed safely at Los Angeles International Airport …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sari Not Desirable For AI Staffs

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Sari the traditional attire for the Indian women has been the standard dress code for the major Indian airlines female staff for decades and Air India is not an exception. However, it looks like the female staffs and air hostesses working in the airline are going to say good bye to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sari Not Desirable For AI Staffs.

Pak seeks ‘concrete Indian steps’ to bolster re-engagement

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has urged Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to back up his call for re-engagement with concrete measures to address issues of concern between the two countries.

“Pakistan is ready for sustained and meaningful dialogue on all issues and it is for India …. Source  : Pak seeks ‘concrete Indian steps’ to bolster re-engagement.

Sri Lanka lawmakers give sweeping powers to President Rajapaksa

COLOMBO – Lawmakers in Sri Lanka MPs have approved proposals to let President Mahinda Rajapaksa seek an unlimited number of terms, even as critics said they could lead to the establishment of dictatorship in the island-nation.

The constitutional amendment also hugely boosts the president’s powers.

Amid …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Cuba’s Soviet-style economic model no longer workable: Castro

LONDON – Former Cuban leader Fidel Castro has said that Cuba’s Soviet-style economic model “doesn’t even work for us anymore”.

In an interview to the Atlantic Monthly magazine, Castro said that the modest reforms introduced by his brother, President Raul Castro to stimulate his country’s troubled economy, appeared … Read : Cuba’s Soviet-style economic model no longer workable: Castro.

UK agency fines Goldman Sachs $27 million for failure to notify about US investigation

UK agency fines Goldman Sachs $27 million
LONDON – Britain’s financial regulator has hit Goldman Sachs & Co. with a 17.5 million pounds ($27 million) fine for failing to notify U.K. authorities about an investigation in the United States.

The British agency’s investigation began in April after the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filed civil fraud charges … Original article on : UK agency fines Goldman Sachs $27 million for failure to notify about US investigation.

British official: UK journalist held captive in NW Pakistan by militants has been released

British captive in Pakistan released
ISLAMABAD – A British journalist held captive by militants in northwestern Pakistan since March has been released, the British High Commission in Pakistan said Thursday.

Asad Qureshi was making a film on militancy for the U.K’s Channel 4 TV station when he was seized.
The Associated Press and many other news organizations did … Original source on Gaea Times at : British official: UK journalist held captive in NW Pakistan by militants has been released.

Lost Mumbai boy might celebrate Eid with family

CHENNAI – Lost Mumbai boy Mohammed Fazlu just might celebrate Eid with his family. The nine-year-old has been staying at a shelter in Tamil Nadu after making an accidental train journey, but a couple claiming to be his parents turned up Thursday to take him home.

He was separated from his parents in April apparently after …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Makeover of ‘naked’ airport scanners may address privacy concerns

MELBOURNE – Travellers will no longer feel humiliated by the controversial airport scanners, which currently see through clothing and reveal clear outlines of a person’s anatomy.

The “naked” airport scanners will soon display a generic figure instead of an image of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Makeover of ‘naked’ airport scanners may address privacy concerns.

Karzai’s brother made 500,000 dollars on Kabul Bank property deal

LONDON – Afghan President Hamid Karzai brother Mahmoud made a half-million pound profit in eight months on a luxury villa in Dubai bought with a loan from the Kabul Bank, which is at the centre of the country’s current financial …. Original article  : Karzai’s brother made 500,000 dollars on Kabul Bank property deal.

9/11 Koran burning pastor accused of using supporters as unpaid labour

LONDON – The American pastor who plans to burn 200 copies of the Koran to mark the anniversary of 9/11, has been accused by former members of his evangelical church of using his own supporters as unpaid labour in his furniture business.

Rev. Terry Jones, who heads … Read more »»».

CCS to discuss lifting of Armed Forces Special Powers Act

NEW DELHI – The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) will meet in New Delhi on Friday to discuss the current crisis prevailing in the Kashmir Valley following Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s meeting with Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh … Read : CCS to discuss lifting of Armed Forces Special Powers Act.

The Jammu and Kashmir situation: The Security Forces

NEW DELHI – Of all the pieces in the Kashmiri jigsaw, none has been more criticized than the security forces, whether it is the army, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), the Border Security Force (BSF), or the Jammu and Kashmir Police. Alleged actions by them … Original source on Gaea Times at : The Jammu and Kashmir situation: The Security Forces.

Sino-Indian ties have gone into limbo: Analysts

NEW DELHI – Analysts say the relationship between India and China has always been a rocky one with little hope of any quick-fix solution to their long simmering tensions, which have flared up, in the recent past with China’s support for India’s … Read more »»».

Chidambaram appeals for restrain over report of US pastor threatening to burn Quran

NEW DELHI – Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Thursday appealed to media to help maintain communal harmony in the wake of reports of a pastor in the United States threatening to burn the holy Quran.

In a statement issued here, Chidambaram said: “There are reports of a pastor in the …. Read the original article  : Chidambaram appeals for restrain over report of US pastor threatening to burn Quran.

Land acquisition not at cost of fertile land : Sonia Gandhi

NEW DELHI – Congress President Sonia Gandhi on Thursday reacting to the verdict of the Supreme Court that endorsed the Mayawati Government’s acquisition of 25 million square metres of land along the six-lane Yamuna …. Read the original article  : here.

Eight failures that led to Gulf oil spill

LONDON – BP’s long-awaited investigation into the Gulf of Mexico accident has revealed eight catastrophic failures, which led to the explosion.

BP accepts its role in the disaster but also points the finger at two of its contractors.

The accident occurred on 20 April as the team aboard Deepwater Horizon was …. Read the original article  : Eight failures that led to Gulf oil spill.

ANA setting up low-cost carrier, a first for Japanese airline, amid growing global competition

ANA setting up low-cost carrier, a Japan first

TOKYO – Japanese carrier All Nippon Airways said Thursday it’s setting up Japan’s first low-cost carrier, potentially making flights between Osaka and Tokyo cheaper than riding the popular bullet train.
The new company is being set up in the second half of 2010, with Hong Kong-based First Eastern Investment … Original article on : ANA setting up low-cost carrier, a first for Japanese airline, amid growing global competition.

Agra clinic delivers 1,000th test tube baby

AGRA – Agra’s well-known medical couple Narendra Malhotra and Jaideep Malhotra say they have delivered the 1,000th test tube baby at their clinic, becoming one of the few IVF centres in India to achieve the feat.

The 1,000th baby, a boy, was born to a woman called Anju, who hails from Haldwani in Uttarakhand, a week …. Read the original article  : Agra clinic delivers 1,000th test tube baby.

India, Russia finalize transport aircraft project

NEW DELHI – India and Russia have finalized arrangements to jointly develop the Multi-role Transport Aircraft (MTA) with each side pooling in $300.35 million.

According to the coming issue of India Strategic defence magazine, New Delhi cleared the contribution in August.
The Russian side has already cleared the way for giving its share to a new … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India, Russia finalize transport aircraft project.

Palin calls Koran-burning proposed protest insensitive, unnecessary

NEW YORK – Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin has called a proposed 9/11 anniversary burning of the Koran by a Florida pastor as insensitive and unnecessary.

Criticizing Pastor Terry Jones in a Facebook noting, the New York Post quoted Palin as saying that his step would be “antithetical to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Palin calls Koran-burning proposed protest insensitive, unnecessary.

Shimla workshop for hospitality industry to cater to Commonwealth Games

SHIMLA – Hospitality industry has organised a-three day special safety training workshop in Shimla to offer better service to the guests visiting the State during the Commonwealth Games.

Shimla Hoteliers Association in collaboration with Tourism Industry Stakeholder welfare Society and Himachal Pradesh …. Read the original article  : Shimla workshop for hospitality industry to cater to Commonwealth Games.

US restaurant says business is better than ever after screaming kids ban

LONDON – A North Carolina restaurant is apparently witnessing better business after it banned unruly children, with a sign on the front door saying screaming children will not be tolerated.

Brenda Armes, the owner of the Olde Salty’s restaurant in Carolina … Original article on : US restaurant says business is better than ever after screaming kids ban.

Serial bride from UK lines up hubby No 9

LONDON – Man-eater Pat Higgins is set to tie the knot with her ninth husband-a toyboy 32 years her junior.

The 56-year-old serial bride from the UK has hooked store worker Mark Sanderson, 24, and the pair held an engagement party recently.

Horrified friends … Original source on Gaea Times at : Serial bride from UK lines up hubby No 9.

No curfew or shutdown on Eid eve in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – On the eve of Eid and after many days of unrest, curfew was not imposed anywhere in the Kashmir Valley Friday and the separatists didn’t call for a shutdown, enabling people to prepare for the festival.

“No curfew or preventive restrictions are in force anywhere in the valley today (Friday),” a police officer said …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Asking for bride’s hand from her father considered “too cheesy” in UK

LONDON – A study has found that the traditional way of going about one’s marriage is dying out, with men thinking that asking for the bride’s hand in marriage from her father is “too cheesy”.

The study of 5,000 married adults by The Wedding Inbox, an online wedding directory which helps … Original article on : Asking for bride’s hand from her father considered “too cheesy” in UK.

Brazilian woman removes world’s largest breast implants after infections

TEXAS – Brazilian born housewife Sheyla Hershey, who is widely known for her large M cup breast implants, has had to undergo surgery to remove them after she suffered severe infections.

Hershey, 30, has been battling to save her implants for the past three months, but …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brazilian woman removes world’s largest breast implants after infections.

French barman, who ‘fathered 55 African babies in #1m benefit scam’, arrested

LONDON – An unemployed barman in France has been arrested after he claimed that he fathered 55 African babies in a bid to get their mothers to move to the country on full benefits.

The Frenchman, 54, who cannot be named but who has a Sengalese background, is said to have cost …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Eid-ul-Fitr to be celebrated on Saturday

NEW DELHI – Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated in the National Capital Region (NCR) on Saturday, said the The Shahi Imam of Fatehpuri Masjid, Mufti Mohammad Mukkaram Ahmed on Thursday.

“The moon of Shawwal was not sighted today. Eid-ul-Fitr will be …. Source article  : Eid-ul-Fitr to be celebrated on Saturday.

Clinton greets India on Eid-ul-Fitr

NEW DELHI/WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton has greeted India on the occasion of the Muslim festival of Eid-ul-Fitr.

In a message to Minister of External Affairs S.M. Krishna, Clinton said: “I extend warmest wishes to you and the people … Read more : Clinton greets India on Eid-ul-Fitr.

Obama sends out Eid-ul-Fitr greetings to Muslims

WASHINGTON – U.S.President Barack Obama has sent out Eid-ul-Fitr greetings to all Muslims around the world.

In a statement issued by the White House Press Secretary’s Office, Obama said: “As Ramadan comes to an end, Michelle and I extend our best wishes to Muslims in the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Obama sends out Eid-ul-Fitr greetings to Muslims.

9/11 mosque site investor’s lawyer says Trump’s buy out offer is a ‘cheap’ stunt

NEW YORK – A lawyer representing one of the eight investors of the Park51 site where a propsed mosque and community center near Ground Zero is to come up, has described billionaire businessman Donald Trump’s offer to pay six million dollars to him as a cheap stunt.

Trump’s offer …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Word that 1 of 3 Americans held in Iran for 13 months will be freed offers hope to families

Moms of US hikers held in Iran get some good news

PINE CITY, Minn. – Three mothers who have pleaded with Iran for more than a year to free their American children have gotten a piece of the news they’ve wanted.
Iranian officials announced that on Saturday they will release one of the Americans, Sarah Shourd. But …. Source article  : Word that 1 of 3 Americans held in Iran for 13 months will be freed offers hope to families.

British spy sang for Hitler with secret documents in her underwear

LONDON – Margery Booth, who was an opera singer and later identified as a British spy, performed before Adolf Hitler with secret documents concealed in her underwear.

Booth was chosen to perform at the Berlin Opera House in front of Hitler as part of the dictator’s efforts to demonstrate … Original article on : British spy sang for Hitler with secret documents in her underwear.

7 month-old boy survives without scratch after 200ft trip in Mexico tornado

LONDON – A seven month-old boy has astonished everyone after he was swept 200ft in the air by a tornado and survived without a scratch.

Brandon Emiliano was ripped from his cot as winds up to 72mph tore the tin roof off his home.

But a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chilean miners to receive medical “survival kits” used by US-Brit troops in Afghan-Iraq wars

LONDON – The thirty-three workers trapped in an underground mine in northern Chile for more than a month will reportedly receive new medical “survival kits,” which were used by the U.S. and British troops during wars in Iraq …. Original source  : Chilean miners to receive medical “survival kits” used by US-Brit troops in Afghan-Iraq wars.

Sir Walter Scott’s ‘lost poem’ found

LONDON – An unpublished poem by Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s greatest writers, has been discovered and will be read in public for the first time.

The poem, called The Hills of Killearn, is part of a hidden collection of documents kept at Cambusmore House near Callander.

Sir … Read : Sir Walter Scott’s ‘lost poem’ found.

99-year-old woman sexually assaulted in Melbourne

MELBOURNE – In one of the most heinous crimes, a 99-year-old woman was sexually assaulted in her home in southeast Melbourne.

The horrendous attack occurred when the woman was alone in her home in Koornang Road, Ormond.

A Victoria Police spokeswoman said a man, thought to be …. Source article  : 99-year-old woman sexually assaulted in Melbourne.

Roemer likely to meet Chidambaram over 9/11 Quran burning issue

NEW DELHI – U.S. Ambassador to India Timothy Roemer is meeting Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Friday, and according to informed sources, is likely to discuss the steps Washington is taking to prevent a Florida-based pastor from burning the Quran on the ninth anniversary of the 9/11 terror strike.

The U.S. Embassty said that Ambassador …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Roemer likely to meet Chidambaram over 9/11 Quran burning issue.

Confusion over mosque status following pastor’s plan to put burning Quran on 9/11 “on hold”

NEW YORK – The American pastor, who threatened to burn copies of the Quran on the anniversary of 9/11, has said that his plans were not cancelled, but “on hold”.

A spokesman for pastor Terry Jones said that Islamic Society of Central Florida imam Muhammad Musri, who had got him to drop the plan, had lied … Original article on : Confusion over mosque status following pastor’s plan to put burning Quran on 9/11 “on hold”.

Dissident group accuses Iran of secretly constructing underground nuke site

LONDON – A dissident group, the People’s Mujahedeen of Iran, that had previously revealed the existence of several hidden nuclear sites in the country, has claimed that Iran is secretly constructing a vast underground complex to hide a nuclear facility in the mountains east of Tehran, in a development that would violate the UN sanctions … Read more >>.

More airtime for Tamil programmes on Malaysian radio, TV

KUALA LUMPUR – Tamil programmes will get more airtime on Malaysian radio and TV, authorities have decided.

Malaysia’s information, communication, arts and culture ministry agreed to allocate more screening time for Tamil programmes on Radio Television Malaysia (RTM) from next year.
RTM is the state-run broadcaster that also operates TV1 and TV2 networks.
The plea for …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US Department of Defence desperate to stop ‘explosive’ spy memoir from being published

LONDON – The US Department of Defence is reportedly negotiating with a major US publisher, St. Martin’s Press, to buy and destroy all nine thousand copies of a book written by a former Defence Intelligence Agency officer, Anthony Shaffer, about his experiences in Afghanistan.

The book, ‘Operation Dark Heart: Spycraft and Special Ops on the Frontlines … Read : US Department of Defence desperate to stop ‘explosive’ spy memoir from being published.

Three men jailed over filmed rape of ‘unconscious’ woman in Oxford

LONDON – Three men from Oxford have been jailed for raping an unconscious woman, which was discovered by the victim only when one of the perpetrators showed her the footage that he recorded on his mobile phone.

The court heard that Mohammed Shahjahan, 27, Nicholas Jones, 26, and Feizal Ali, 26, from Oxford raped and …. Source article  : Three men jailed over filmed rape of ‘unconscious’ woman in Oxford.

Mob attacks police post near Hazratbal in Srinagar

SRINAGAR – Fresh violence erupted in Srinagar city on Saturday with a mob setting on fire a police barrack and damaging a vehicle of the police department outside the Harzratbal Shrine on the banks of the Dal lake here.

Police opened fire in the air to disperse the mob.

Soon after the Eid-ul-Fitr prayers a mob set …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mob attacks police post near Hazratbal in Srinagar.

NATO forces set to target Taliban birthplace Zhari

LONDON – NATO-led coalition forces in Afghanistan look set to focus on Afghanistan Zhari District, the birthplace of the Taliban, which they see as a major southern nest of the insurgency.

Canadian Forces have tried for years to pacify Zhari, in Kandahar province, but without much success.

Now, the Americans have to secure the 300-square-kilometre district, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : NATO forces set to target Taliban birthplace Zhari.

Castro says remarks about Cuban model ‘not working’ misinterpreted

LONDON – Former Cuban president Fidel Castro has said that his comment to a US journalist about Cuba’s system not working had been misinterpreted.

The former president told a meeting at the University of Havana that the remark, which caused a sensation when reported earlier this week, did not reflect his view. He meant “the exact …. Source  : Castro says remarks about Cuban model ‘not working’ misinterpreted.

Oz woman claims she was cut off by Ford station wagon-shaped UFO

MELBOURNE – A number of Australians have come forward to reveal their experiences with the paranormal.

Ever since ABC morning show presenter Leon Compton openly discussed the topic, he has been swamped by tales of UFOs, which include a woman claiming to have been cut off by aliens.

Betty from Alice Springs said her close encounter occurred …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Oz woman claims she was cut off by Ford station wagon-shaped UFO.

World’s most expensive sandwich comes at a price of 112 pounds

LONDON – The world’s most expensive cheese sandwich has been unveiled at a whopping price of 112 pounds.

Celebrity chef Martin Blunos, 50, created it by using ordinary cheddar blended with expensive white truffles and then topped with gold dust.

He also included a 100-year-old balsamic vinegar, bread costing 5 pounds, slices of quail’s egg, black … Read more »».

Highly anxious Playboy girl tries to bust out – midair – from jet

NEW YORK – A Playboy centrefold, who suffered a severe case of anxiety, apparently tried to open the door of the plane while it was still at midair.

Tiffany Livingston, 21, was aboard JetBlue Flight 522 from Orlando, Fla., to Newark when she bolted from her seat and tried to open the door of the plane, …. Source article  : Highly anxious Playboy girl tries to bust out – midair – from jet.

Castro claims France is carrying out a racial holocaust

LONDON – Former Cuban leader Fidel Castro has accused France of carrying out a “racial holocaust” over its expulsion of Roma migrants back to their homes in eastern Europe. e said strong protests in France were “essential” to counter the expulsions.

“The last thing one would expect is the news of the expulsion of French gypsies, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Lloyds British head quits over Indian friends’ multi-million pound scam in Bangalore

LONDON – A British executive who is jointly responsible for more than 2,000 Lloyds TSB employees in India, Andrew Taylor, has quit following a multi-million pound racket involving his two Indian friends who were allegedly employed by him into well-paid posts in which they were effectively ‘writing cheques to themselves’.

According to the Daily Mail, Taylor, … Read more : Lloyds British head quits over Indian friends’ multi-million pound scam in Bangalore.

We have poor sex lives, say French couples

LONDON – The French, who are thought to be great lovers, in reality lead miserable sex lives, says a survey.

Three-quarters of the couples who took part in a poll admitted that they have poor sex drive.
The Daily Express reported Saturday that a quarter of the respondents used excuses such as headaches, stress, tiredness …. Source  : We have poor sex lives, say French couples.

Obama to mark 9th anniversary of Sept. 11 attacks with moment of silence, speech at Pentagon

President to mark 9th anniversary of 9/11 attacks
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is marking the ninth anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks with a speech at the Pentagon, one of the targets of the terrorists.
At 8:46 a.m. – the time the first of two planes hit the World Trade Center in New York … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Obama to mark 9th anniversary of Sept. 11 attacks with moment of silence, speech at Pentagon.

First, Sept. 11 anniversary will be about the victims, then it will be about the mosque

Islam controversies cast shadow over 9/11 events
NEW YORK – Politics is threatening to overshadow the ninth anniversary of the Sept. 11 terror attacks.
Families of more than 2,700 people killed at the World Trade Center will mourn their loved ones by reading their names at an anniversary ceremony Saturday morning. President Barack Obama and … Read more »».

US has no strategy to meet home grown terror threat

WASHINGTON – Unveiling a new report a day before the United States marks nine years since the 2001 attacks, members of the National Security Preparedness Group said Al Qaeda and other terror groups are increasingly turning to U.S. citizens to carry out attacks on America.

Citing examples where recruiters went after Somali populations and other …. Original source  : US has no strategy to meet home grown terror threat.

What stuff white people really like – Golfing, Harley Davidson and Ghostbusters

WASHINGTON – Golfing, Harley Davidson and Ghostbusters – these are the things white people really like, according to dating website OkCupid.

While the popular blog (and now book) ‘Stuff White People Like’ was the first to plumb the world of white people online, OkCupid took the next step and analysed profiles of online daters to … Original source on Gaea Times at : What stuff white people really like – Golfing, Harley Davidson and Ghostbusters.

Now, girls as young as 13 can get ‘the Pill’ without prescription in UK

LONDON – British girls as young as 13 can now get contraceptive pills from high street pharmacies without doctor’s prescription.

In order to reduce scoring underage pregnancy rates, the scheme has been introduced to give young girls greater access to contraception.

Under the trail scheme, which will begin in November, ten pharmacies will provide the Pill without …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Now, girls as young as 13 can get ‘the Pill’ without prescription in UK.

Delhi flood threat persists as Yamuna water levels rise

NEW DELHI – With water levels of the Yamuna River rising in New Delhi, a flood threat looms over the national capital with the State Government evacuating people living in low-lying areas to safer places.

The water level is likely to rise by at least two meters above the danger mark by Saturday evening following the … Original article on : Delhi flood threat persists as Yamuna water levels rise.

10-10-10: An auspicious day to tie the knot!

BEIJING – For Chinese people, the number 10 means “perfection in everything”. So, a huge number of betrothed couples are planning to tie the knot on Oct 10, 2010, or 10-10-10, in a bid to make their marriage a success.

Aug 8, 2008 or 8-8-8, which means “making fortune”, and Sep 9, 2009, or 9-9-9, which … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 10-10-10: An auspicious day to tie the knot!.

Obama’s wedding band getting repaired

WASHINGTON – For at least two days, U.S. President Barack Obama was seen without his wedding band on his left hand, and that is because: it’s getting repaired.

The White House said that beyond the typical cleaning that most rings get, Mr. Obama’s intricate gold ring needed a little repairing.

White House aides declined to elaborate … Read more : Obama’s wedding band getting repaired.

Three-quarters of French couples have miserable sex lives

LONDON – A new poll has revealed that three-quarters of French couples have miserable sex lives, and their relationship is suffering as a result.

A quarter of them use excuses such as headaches, stress, tiredness or the proximity of their children to avoid getting intimate with their partner.

Half of them told French pollsters Ifop that … Read : Three-quarters of French couples have miserable sex lives.

Indian chef becomes Turkey’s brand ambassador to Malaysia

KLANG – An ethnic Indian chef and restaurateur has been made Turkey’s brand ambassador to Malaysia.

John Anbarasu Suppiah, the director of Let’s Travel N Cook, has been selected by Turkish Airlines and Turkey’s tourism board to promote the country’s culture and cuisine among Malaysians, the Turkish embassy announced here Saturday.
“He will also be …. Original article  : Indian chef becomes Turkey’s brand ambassador to Malaysia.

Peace not fame matters more for Manipur’s Iron Lady

IMPHAL – For rights activist Irom Sharmila, jailed since 2000 for resorting to a hunger strike against alleged rights violations by security forces in Manipur, money or fame matters very little, and what she strives for is peace and justice.

On Saturday, a New Delhi-based business school, Indian Institute of Planning and Management (IIPM) awarded Sharmila …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Peace not fame matters more for Manipur’s Iron Lady

IMPHAL – For rights activist Irom Sharmila, jailed since 2000 for resorting to a hunger strike against alleged rights violations by security forces in Manipur, money or fame matters very little, and what she strives for is peace and justice.

On Saturday, a New Delhi-based business school, Indian Institute of Planning and Management (IIPM) awarded Sharmila … Original source on Gaea Times at : Peace not fame matters more for Manipur’s Iron Lady.

Train Canceled Owing To Delhi Flood

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- In Delhi, Yamuna River has become threateningly swollen and this has prompted the Indian Railways to cancel a number of trains that reach or pass through the capital. It has been reported that the Northern Railways has been forced to divert as many as 36 trains apart from canceling 25 … Original source on Gaea Times at : Train Canceled Owing To Delhi Flood.

West has made more mistakes in Afghanistan than Russia, claims envoy to Kabul

KABUL – Russia’s Ambassador to Afghanistan, Andrey Avetisyan, has claimed that Britain and America have made more strategic blunders than Russia in the war-ravaged nation, and this would delay a successful withdrawal of troops.

The New York Post quoted Ambassador Avetisyan, as saying that talk …. Read the original article  : West has made more mistakes in Afghanistan than Russia, claims envoy to Kabul.

Carla Bruni portrayed as a ‘female Don Juan’ in biography

LONDON – A leading investigative journalist has claimed that French First Lady Carla Bruni is a ‘female Don Juan’ who humiliated her husband President Nicolas Sarkozy by inviting three former lovers on holiday.

A devastating portrait of … Read more : Carla Bruni portrayed as a ‘female Don Juan’ in biography.

Pak minister warns of more suicide attacks

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Minister of State for Interior Tasnim Ahmed Qureshi has warned that intelligence agencies have received reports, which claim that more suicide attacks might be take place across the country in the coming few days.

According to …. Source article  : Pak minister warns of more suicide attacks.

State TV: Tehran prosecutor says Iran ready to release jailed American woman on bail

State media: Iran ready to release American woman

TEHRAN, Iran – Iranian state TV is reporting that a senior prosecutor is ready to release a jailed American woman on bail.
Sarah Shourd was to have been released Saturday as an act of clemency to mark the end of Ramadan after the intervention of Iran’s president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : State TV: Tehran prosecutor says Iran ready to release jailed American woman on bail.

Rise in divorces among Malaysian Indians: Survey

KUALA LUMPUR – The divorce rate among ethnic Indians and the Chinese has registered an appreciable rise in Malaysia, a survey has revealed.

The national rate has registered a 105 percent increase in the last seven years. The divorce rate is even higher among the majority Malay Muslims that form 82 percent of the total …. Read the original article  : Rise in divorces among Malaysian Indians: Survey.

Obama’s wedding ring sent for repair

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has reportedly not been wearing his wedding ring for quite some time now. The reason – it has been sent for repair.

For at least two days, Obama’s left hand was unadorned by his wedding band. The White House later said the president’s intricate gold ring, made in Indonesia, needed …. Original source  : Obama’s wedding ring sent for repair.

Brother, sister who had child together to wed

LONDON – A brother and sister who had a child together have planed to get married, breaking the law which restricts incestuous wedding, British media reported Sunday.

The pair first spoke to the Irish Mail newspaper in May about their shock when they learned that they shared a father.
Although, the couple – known as James …. Read the original article  : here.

Gay rights movement celebrates decade in Nepal

KATHMANDU – The only country in South Asia to recognise same sex marriages, Nepal Sunday celebrates a decade of the gay rights movement pioneered by a single group amid widespread persecution.

The Blue Diamond Society (BDS), Nepal’s first gay rights organisation founded in 2001 by the country’s first openly homosexual MP Sunil Babu Pant, has been …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Gay rights movement celebrates decade in Nepal.

Coimbatore devotees worship Asia’s largest Ganesh idol on Ganesh Chaturthi

COIMBATORE – Devotees worshiped Asia’s largest statue of Lord Ganesh here on Saturday on the occasion of the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi.

People thronged the city’s Mundhi Vinayakar Temple to worship the 10-foot-tall idol, which has been carved out of a single black stone, weighing 110 …. Original source  : Coimbatore devotees worship Asia’s largest Ganesh idol on Ganesh Chaturthi.

NATO says 5 insurgents, including 1 planning to disrupt elections, killed in Afghanistan

NATO says 5 insurgents killed in Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – NATO says a Taliban commander who planned attacking polling stations during next week’s elections and four other insurgents have been killed in eastern Afghanistan.
The military alliance said in a statement Sunday that NATO and Afghan forces killed the five on Saturday night in a village compound …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Unidentified ‘hate filled’ American burns pages of Koran near Ground Zero

NEW YORK – An unidentified hate-filled fanatic reportedly ripped pages from a Koran and burnt them as a sign of protest, near the proposed site of a Muslim community centre and mosque near Ground Zero on Saturday saying, ‘America should never be afraid to give their opinion.’

“If they can burn American …. Read the original article  : Unidentified ‘hate filled’ American burns pages of Koran near Ground Zero.

Sports ministry says 103 Indian players have failed doping tests

NEW DELHI – As many as 103 Indian sportspersons, including juniors, have flunked dope-related tests in the last eight months, a sports ministry official said on Saturday.

With just 26 days left for the Commonwealth Games, six wrestlers, three swimmers, two runners and one netball player have failed doping …. Original article  : Sports ministry says 103 Indian players have failed doping tests.

Curfew imposed in Srinagar, FIR against Mirwaiz

SRINAGAR – Indefinite curfew was imposed in Srinagar and five other towns in Kashmir valley Sunday, a day after the city saw widespread violence following Eid prayers. An FIR was registered against moderate separatist leader Mirwaiz Umer Farooq for inciting violence, officials said.

A senior police official said imposition of curfew had become necessary in the … Read more »».

Three militants killed in US drone strike in North Waziristan

PESHAWAR – Three militants were killed in a US missile strike in the northwestern tribal belt of North Waziristan in Pakistan, near the Afghan border.

The missiles struck Newey Adda village in the Datta Khel area near Miranshah, the chief town of North Waziristan, the Dawn quoted officials, as saying.

“A US drone fired two missiles. The …. Source  : Three militants killed in US drone strike in North Waziristan.

Curfew in Srinagar, FIR against Mirwaiz

SRINAGAR – Authorities imposed an indefinite curfew in Srinagar and other Jammu and Kashmir towns Sunday, a day after the city saw widespread violent protests following Eid prayers. An FIR was registered against moderate separatist leader Mirwaiz Umer Farooq for inciting violence, officials said.

A senior police official said imposition of curfew had become necessary in …. Source  : Curfew in Srinagar, FIR against Mirwaiz.

Pakistani officials say airstrike kills at least 4 militants in northwestern Pakistan

Officials: Airstrike kills 4 militants in Pakistan

MIR ALI, Pakistan – A suspected U.S. missile strike early Sunday killed at least four associates of a warlord who is fighting Western troops in Afghanistan, intelligence officials said.
Powerful militant leader Hafiz Gul Bahadur struck a truce with the Pakistani military and agreed to stay on the sidelines last … Read more : Pakistani officials say airstrike kills at least 4 militants in northwestern Pakistan.