Pakistan jets kill 45 alleged militants along border; one account says civilians also dead

Pakistani jets target militant hideouts, 45 killed

PESHAWAR, Pakistan – Pakistan army jets and helicopters targeted militant hideouts near the Afghan border, killing 45 people identified as insurgents or members of their families, including women and children, security officials said Wednesday.
The attacks happened Tuesday in the Teerah Valley in the Khyber region, where al-Qaida and Taliban …. Original article  : Pakistan jets kill 45 alleged militants along border; one account says civilians also dead.

US defence chief arrives in Iraq

BAGHDAD – US Secretary of Defence Robert Gates landed in Baghdad Wednesday, following President Barack Obama’s declaration that the US combat mission in Iraq has ended.

According to officials, Gates would meet with Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki, defence officials and senior military figures in the Iraqi capital.
His visit coincides with that of US Vice … Original article on : US defence chief arrives in Iraq.

US shares Karzai’s legitimate concerns over terror threats from Pakistan: Gen Petraeus

KABUL – The commander of US-NATO forces in Afghanistan, General David Petraeus, has said that he shared Afghan President Hamid Karzai’s concerns about threats from across the border in Pakistan.

He however said that the Pakistanis deserved credit … Original source on Gaea Times at : US shares Karzai’s legitimate concerns over terror threats from Pakistan: Gen Petraeus.

Youngest Chile miner foresaw mine disaster

LONDON – Jimmy Sanchez, the youngest of 33 miners trapped in a Chilean pit for 27 days, has claimed that he had noticed rock falls while working 2,300 feet below ground at the San Jose gold and copper mine and had a premonition …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Youngest Chile miner foresaw mine disaster.

U.S. women happier going to church than shopping on Sundays

WASHINGTON – Women in the United States generally derive more happiness from religious participation than from shopping on Sundays, says a new study.

The research by a Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) researcher, together with a researcher from De-Paul [..] Read the original article: here.

Sex-starved man gets $18K custom-made sex doll resembling ex

MELBOURNE – A sex-starved businessman was so obsessed with his ex-girlfriend after she dumped him that he recreated her as a life-sized sex doll worth 18,000 dollars.

The 50-year-old man put together a collection of photos of his ex and told Italian adult toymaker Diego Bortolin: “I want it just like her but … Original article on : Sex-starved man gets $18K custom-made sex doll resembling ex.

Hot photog says picture-studio boss sunbathed naked in front of her

NEW YORK – The hot photographer Maryam Sayigh, who sued aristocratic fashion honcho Federico Pignatelli over luring her into sex in return for job, has said that he sunbathed nude in front of her, propositioned her and forced her to pick up women for him. … Original article on : Hot photog says picture-studio boss sunbathed naked in front of her.

8 out of 10 Brit mums fib to kids to make them eat

LONDON – A new UK survey has revealed that many mothers resort to telling white lies to their children so as to get them to eat healthy foods.

The survey found that eight out of ten mothers regularly tell their children old classics such as “carrots will … Read more >>.

Asian women on student visas join sex trade Down Under

MELBOURNE – The Australian immigration department has found that young Asian women who come to the country on student visas are instead working in brothels.

In its investigation, it found that the women are earning up to 10,000 dollars a week as sex workers, and that brothel websites openly advertise “new fresh girls” arriving regularly from …. Original article  : Asian women on student visas join sex trade Down Under.

Ex- bin Laden aide sentenced to life for NY prison guard stabbing

NEW YORK – A former aide of Osama bin Laden, Mamdouh Mahmud Salim, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for stabbing a New York City prison guard while waiting for a terrorism trial in 2000.

According to The New York Post, Federal Judge Deborah Batts pronounced the verdict in connection with the stabbing of guard …. Source article  : Ex- bin Laden aide sentenced to life for NY prison guard stabbing.

Why Americans think Obama is a Muslim

WASHINGTON – In a first-of-its kind study, a psychologist has explained why Americans believe President Barack Obama is a Muslim.

The research by Spee Kosloff and colleagues suggests people are most likely to accept such falsehoods, both consciously and unconsciously, when subtle clues remind them of ways in which Obama is different from them, whether because …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Why Americans think Obama is a Muslim.

Mahabharat gets a new look from Nepal

KATHMANDU – After a novel based on the story of Karna, the tragic prince in the Mahabharata abandoned at birth, and a play from the perspective of Gandhari, the queen mother who lived life blindfolded after her marriage to a sightless prince, Nepal is now set to woo London with yet another interpretation of the … Read more >>>.

Two militants arrested in Assam

HAFLONG – Police have arrested two militants of the Kuki Revolutionary Army (KRA) from Mahur town near the Haflong hill station in Assam.

The duo identified as Thancha Khingsai and Lansen Kuki, both in their twenties, were caught on the basis of a tip off received by police on August 30.

The militants led the police to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Two militants arrested in Assam.

Tony Blair used alcohol as ‘a prop’ to cope with pressures of life in No 10

LONDON – Former British PM Tony Blair has admitted that he used alcohol as “a prop” to cope with the pressures of life in No 10.

The bombshell revelation comes in his 700-page autobiography, A Journey, which took three years to write and goes on sale today, reports the Sun.

The book gives a fascinating insight … Original source on Gaea Times at : Tony Blair used alcohol as ‘a prop’ to cope with pressures of life in No 10.

No butter cows in Detroit: Michigan ends summer without state fair for 1st time in 160 years

Tradition ends: No Michigan state fair this year

DETROIT – This is the first year in 160 that Michigan won’t have a state fair.
Gov. Jennifer Granholm canceled it, saying the debt-ridden state could no longer afford to subsidize it. The fair had been losing money and attendance had dwindled from a peak of 1 million in … Read more »».

Normalcy returns for a day in Kashmir Valley

SRINAGAR – Life was back to normal for a day in the Kashmir Valley Wednesday as authorities lifted curfew and separatists called off protests and shutdowns.

“Curfew has been lifted from Srinagar city and other towns of the Kashmir Valley, except Anantnag town,” a senior police officer said here.
Educational institutions, shops, banks, post offices and [..] Read the original article: here.

Truck driver accused of striking, dragging 2 young children for quarter-mile in Calif.

Tow truck driver accused of dragging toddlers

OXNARD, Calif. – Police say a tow truck driver has been accused of hitting two young children as their mother pushed them across a street in a stroller then dragging the kids under the truck for about a quarter of a mile.
Oxnard Police Sgt. Randy Latimer says the truck … Original source on Gaea Times at : Truck driver accused of striking, dragging 2 young children for quarter-mile in Calif..

Pakistan denies giving de-facto control of Gilgit Baltistan to China

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has strongly denied handing over de-facto control of the strategic Gilgit-Baltistan region in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) to China.

The New York Times reported that there was a simmering rebellion against Pakistani rule and on the invitation of the Pakistani government, ’seven to eleven thousand’ Chinese soldiers had entered Gilgit-Baltistan area.

The Pakistan …. Original source  : Pakistan denies giving de-facto control of Gilgit Baltistan to China.

Pak Army officers cancel US CENTCON visit offended over ‘mistreatment’

LAHORE – A delegation of Pakistani military officers travelling to the United States Central Command headquarters in Tampa, Florida, cancelled their visit in protest against the alleged misbehaviour they had to face from staff at Dallas Airport.

The nine Pakistani officers, on an official visit to the United States, came out of the United Airlines Flight …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pak Army officers cancel US CENTCON visit offended over ‘mistreatment’.

Chidambaram to review Commonwealth Games security

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P Chidambaram will hold a high-level meeting on Wednesday to take stock of the measures being put in place for the Commonwealth Games.

During the meeting, Chidambaram will review the steps being taken to ensure incident-free and successful Games.

Delhi Police Commissioner YS Dadwal is expected to give a presentation on …. Read the original article  : Chidambaram to review Commonwealth Games security.

Maoists gangrape, bury woman alive for defying their diktat

KOLKATA – In a shocking incident of Maoist brutality, an Anganwadi woman was gang-raped and buried alive for defying the rebels diktat last month.

According to a report appearing in The Pioneer, the objective of the rape and murder was to send across a bloodcurdling message to all non-conformist political opponents.

The impact of the medieval-type ‘punishment’ …. Original source  : Maoists gangrape, bury woman alive for defying their diktat.

Teenage Brit girl with nut allergy dies after eating curry

LONDON – A British teenager, with a nut allergy, has passed away after eating a takeaway curry.

Molly Dyer, 13, collapsed in front of her mum as she suffered a suspected allergic reaction, but felt better after she took some medicines that she carried with her.

But later her lips started to swell and as she struggled … Read more »»».

Pak police jailed for turning blind eye to Sialkot teen lynchings

SIALKOT – A court in Sialkot has jailed five police officers for their failure to stop lynching of two teenage brothers. A police chief is among the accused sent to jail for the August 15 incident.

The BBC quoted officials as saying that … Original article on : Pak police jailed for turning blind eye to Sialkot teen lynchings.

Curfew continues in Anantnag

ANANTNAG – Curfew continued in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag town for the fourth day on Thursday.

Restrictions were also imposed on the movement of people in the old city areas of Srinagar as a precautionary measure.

Shops, educational institutions, banks and private offices remained … Read more >>>.

Now, Pak air strike against militants kills civilians, including women and children

PAKISTAN – At least six civilians, including women and children, have been killed in a military air raid in Pakistan. A total of about 45 people were reported killed.

Security officials said preparations for suicide attacks in Peshawar were … Original article on : Now, Pak air strike against militants kills civilians, including women and children.

China rejects reports of troop deployment in Pakistan

BEIJING – China has rejected reports that claim the presence of over 11,000 troops in northern Pakistan, saying that ‘ulterior motives’ were involved in hurting Beijing’s relations with India and Pakistan through such ‘groundless reports’.

In a statement, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Jiang Yu said,” We …. Original source  : China rejects reports of troop deployment in Pakistan.

Gordon Brown’s allies call Blair’s criticism ‘one-sided’

LONDON – In light of former British prime minister Tony Blair’s criticism of his successor Gordon Brown in his book-’A Journey’- Brown’s supporters have openly accused Blair of being ‘unfair’ and ‘one-sided’ in his remarks.

Labour leadership contender Andy Burnham said he was ’saddened’ about the book being … Read more »»».

Riverbank land erosion leaves people homeless in Uttar Pradesh

KOUSHAMBHI – Erosion of low-lying areas bordering the River Yamuna and the River Ganges in Uttar Pradesh’s Kaushambhi District, has left many families homeless.

The local administration has shifted nearly 40 affected families to a primary school.

“The villages are badly affected due to floods. We have immediately shifted 40 families of affected village in the school. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Riverbank land erosion leaves people homeless in Uttar Pradesh.

China has major presence in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir: Gilgit activist

WASHINGTON – China has massive presence in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, said a US-based activist from Gilgit who added that massive investments were made by Beijing in that frontier region to expand the Karakoram Corridor as a strategic pathway.

Washingon-based political activist Senge H. Sering, who was in India for over a year until March 2010 as Visiting …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : China has major presence in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir: Gilgit activist.

Janmashtami celebrated across India with fervour

NEW DELHI/MATHURA – The auspicious festival of Janmashtami, the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna is being celebrated across the country with great enthusiasm.

Temples in Delhi were decorated with flowers and colourful lights on the occasion. Special security arrangements have been made at temples …. Read the original article  : Janmashtami celebrated across India with fervour.

Himachal Chief Minister unveils ‘Har Ghar Kuchh Kehta Hai’ coffee table book

SHIMLA – Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal recently unveiled a coffee table book tiled ‘ Har Ghar Kuchh Kehta Hai’ that provides a peep into the historical importance of Shimla’s heritage buildings.

Compiled by the state tourism and civil aviation …. Source article  : Himachal Chief Minister unveils ‘Har Ghar Kuchh Kehta Hai’ coffee table book.

Imphal school students nab militant

IMPHAL – Students of the Ananda Singh Higher Secondary School here have nabbed a militant who was trying to extort money from their principal.

The extortionist believed to be a cadre of the hardcore Kangleipak Communist Party … Read : Imphal school students nab militant.

Fear of tomorrow never dies in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Uneasy quiet prevailed in the Kashmir Valley Thursday with few restrictions but a shutdown called by separatists ensuring that shops, educational institutions and businesses were shut again after the brief hours of normalcy the day before.

The bustle had returned Wednesday as authorities lifted curfew and separatists called off protests and shutdowns. Businesses … Original source on Gaea Times at : Fear of tomorrow never dies in Kashmir.

Pakistan frees 100 more Indian fishermen

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Thursday released another batch of 100 Indian fishermen from a prison in Karachi, two days after it freed 100 fishermen languishing in the port city’s jail, authorities said.

Pakistani authorities released 100 Indian fishermen Aug 31 from a prison in Karachi. They were held for fishing illegally in Pakistani waters across the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pakistan frees 100 more Indian fishermen.

Now, world’s first ‘boob-lift’ bra that takes 10 years off your looks

LONDON – Lingerie brand Ultimo has claimed that it has created the perfect bra, which can turn saggy boobs into perky, take ten years off one’s looks, and is apparently so comfortable one can sleep in it.

The company revealed it spent two years and more than 100,000 pounds talking to women about their idea of [..] Read the original article: here.

What men want in bed in two words – more sex!

SYDNEY – A new book written by Australian sex therapist Bettina Arndt has revealed what men really desire most in bed from their partner is more sex.

Arndt, 61, wrote the book titled, ‘What Men Want – In Bed’, after she recruited 150 men to write to her over the course of a year about what … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : What men want in bed in two words – more sex!.

No progress over Malay Indian families’ land title request

KUALA LUMPUR – Malay Indian families living in Sekinchan since the 1950s have claimed that there has been no progress by the authorities in ruling over their land titles.

The Star and the Malaysian Nanban quoted the families spokesman M. Arjunan as saying that they had written to the previous and present state government as well … Read : No progress over Malay Indian families’ land title request.

Lakhisarai encounter: Naxal deadline for releasing captured cops ends today

PATNA – The deadline set by Maoists for the release of their jailed comrades in exchange for the four cops kidnapped from Bihar’s Lakhisarai district ends today.

They have extended the deadline after the 4 pm deadline on Wednesday went by without the Bihar Government accepting their demands.

The Naxals have threatened to kill the cops …. Source  : Lakhisarai encounter: Naxal deadline for releasing captured cops ends today.

Bosses who sack the most make maximum money

MELBOURNE – Managers, who fire the most, are the ones who earn the most, revealed a new survey.

Bosses of the 50 US companies that sacked the most staff during the recession earned 42 per cent more than their peers, concluded the research.

A report by the Institute for Policy Studies in Washington concludes chief executives …. Source  : Bosses who sack the most make maximum money.

Beggar making 23k pounds a year fined in Britain

LONDON – A Brit scrounger, already collecting benefits, has been fined for raking in another 23,000 pounds a year as a beggar.

Scruffy Daniel Terry sat in shop doorways on a sleeping bag to convince sympathetic passers-by he was homeless.

But the former estate agent pocketed up to 50 pounds a day and about 100 … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Beggar making 23k pounds a year fined in Britain.

Obama to comment on unemployment report Friday before going to Camp David retreat

Obama to comment Friday on jobless report
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama will speak to reporters Friday after the Labor Department releases its monthly jobless report.

Analysts expect the unemployment rate to rise slightly, to 9.6 percent from 9.5 percent.
In the afternoon, the president will leave for the Camp David presidential retreat in the Catoctin (kuh-TAHK’-tin) Mountains … Read more »».

All concourses reopened at Miami airport after suspicious item prompted evacuation

Miami airport fully open again
MIAMI – A spokesman at Miami International Airport says all concourses have reopened after an overnight evacuation prompted by the discovery of a suspicious item in a checked bag.

Spokesman Greg Chin told The Associated Press that passengers, workers and others were being let back into all six concourses Friday morning. Four …. Original source  : All concourses reopened at Miami airport after suspicious item prompted evacuation.

Pakistan plans Rs 250bn relief package for flood victims

Islamabad, Sept 3 061(ANI): The Pakistan government is likely to provide a relief package of 250 billion rupees to flood victims. In addition, about 2.5 million households will receive one lakh rupees each to cover damages.

According to the Daily Times, the ongoing financial assistance of 100 dollars per family will continue for the next six … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan plans Rs 250bn relief package for flood victims.

Centre’s wrong policies encouraging military, communalism: AIYF

COIMBATORE – The All Indian Youth Federation (AIYF) has slammed the Central Government for not tackling militancy, communalism, unemployment and Maoism effectively.

“The unemployed youth in the country are in the grip of terrorism, communalism and this is primarily because of consequences of the economic policies of successive governments led by the Congress party for more …. Original article  : Centre’s wrong policies encouraging military, communalism: AIYF.

Nitish to discuss hostage crisis at Patna all-party meeting

PATNA – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will preside over an all-party meeting here on Saturday to discuss the kidnapping of policemen by Maoists.

Kumar is also trying to personally contact opposition leaders to take them into confidence on the kidnapping issue.

Meanwhile, a self-proclaimed spokesman of the Maoists, Avinash, telephoned media offices in Bihar and …. Read the original article  : here.

7 in 10 New Yorkers want proposed mosque away from Ground Zero: Poll

NEW YORK – Seven out of ten New Yorkers participating in a New York poll, want the proposed Muslim community center and mosque to be relocated away from Ground Zero in Lower Manhattan.

Over 50 percent of those surveyed have opposed building of the project two blocks north of the World Trade Center site, even … Read more »»».

Chief rabbi slams Stephen Hawking for excluding God’s role in universe creation

LONDON – The chief rabbi, Lord Sacks, has lashed out at Stephen Hawking after the astrophysicist claimed in his new book that God had no role to play in the creation of the universe.

In the book, ‘The Grand Design’, published next week, Hawking concludes that science excludes the possibility of a deity and that it … Read : Chief rabbi slams Stephen Hawking for excluding God’s role in universe creation.

Prince Harry accused of animal cruelty over polo horse injury

LONDON – Prince Harry has been accused of animal cruelty after pictures of him riding an injured horse during a polo match surfaced.

In the pic, he is riding a pony that appeared to have been stabbed in the flank by his spurs.

The horse was injured during a match at the Guards Polo Club in Windsor … Read : Prince Harry accused of animal cruelty over polo horse injury.

Wikileaks founder admits he had sexual relations with accuser

LONDON – Wikileaks founder Julian Assange has admitted that he had sexual relations with one of two Swedish women who accused him of sexual abuse.

Sweden’s top prosecutor reopened investigations into allegations of molestation from the woman and of rape by another Swedish female on Tuesday.

Assange said that he had consensual sex more than once …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pakistan’s n-arsenal prevented war with India: A.Q. Khan

WASHINGTON – Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal has prevented a conventional war with India, ensuring “our survival, our security, and our sovereignty”, besides making the “nation walk with head held high”, boasts A.Q. Khan, the disgraced scientist considered the father of Islamabad’s clandestine nuclear programme.

“Our nuclear programme has ensured our survival, our security, and our sovereignty… …. Read the original article  : here.

TSA: Major evacuation at Miami airport, 1 passenger detained for ’suspicious item’ in bag

TSA: Evacuation, 1 detained at Miami airport

MIAMI – A passenger was detained and four of Miami International Airport’s six concourses were evacuated after a screener spotted something suspicious in a checked bag, authorities said.
The Transportation Security Administration declined to identify the suspicious item found in the bag and didn’t identify the passenger it says was … Read : TSA: Major evacuation at Miami airport, 1 passenger detained for ’suspicious item’ in bag.

Sarah Palin calls reporters ‘impotent’ in radio interview

NEW YORK – Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin has lashed out at reporters who write about her using anonymous sources, branding them ‘impotent’ and ‘whack.’

The 2008 Republican vice presidential nominee made the remarks in an appearance on Sean Hannity’s WABC radio show.

In response to a question about an upcoming trip to Iowa on Septmber …. Read the original article  : Sarah Palin calls reporters ‘impotent’ in radio interview.

Churchill ‘ordered assassination of Mussolini to protect secret letters’

LONDON – A leading French historian has suggested that Winston Churchill ordered the assassination of Benito Mussolini as part of a plot to destroy potentially compromising secret letters he had sent the Italian dictator.

Pierre Milza, an expert on fascist Italy, theorizes that the wartime prime minister may have wanted Mussolini dead to prevent the letters, … Read more >>.

ICRC claims Pak flood victims’ resentment hurting aid effort

GENEVA – The International Committee of the Red Cross has said that flood victims in Pakistan are “resentful about not getting enough aid” and this may hamper the aid effort.

So in the past eight days, there were two cases when the ICRC had to halt the distribution of relief items “because of the unrest.”

“What we …. Read the original article  : ICRC claims Pak flood victims’ resentment hurting aid effort.

TSA: 1 in custody after suspicious item found in luggage at Miami airport, concourses closed

1 in custody at Miami airport; 4 concourses shut

MIAMI – Federal officials say a passenger has been taken into custody after screeners detected something suspicious in a checked bag at Miami International Airport.
A statement by the Transportation Security Administration says its investigators, a Miami-Dade police bomb squad and other law enforcement agencies were on the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : TSA: 1 in custody after suspicious item found in luggage at Miami airport, concourses closed.

Mistresses, wives of trapped miners clash over cash

LONDON – Mistresses and wives of 33 miners trapped inside a mine in Chile have clashed over compensation claims and some of the miners may face difficult questions when they make it to the surface.

The miners have been trapped since Aug 5 when a tunnel collapsed at the mine, located about 700 km north of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mistresses, wives of trapped miners clash over cash.

Pro-reform website says crowds attack home of Iranian opposition leader, wound bodyguard

Crowds attack home of Iranian opposition leader

TEHRAN, Iran – A website supporting Iran’s reform movement says assailants have attacked the home of an opposition leader and wounded one of his bodyguards.
The report says Mahdi Karroubi’s guards had to fire in the air after the crowd broke down the door of the home on Thursday night …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pro-reform website says crowds attack home of Iranian opposition leader, wound bodyguard.

Tractor rollovers _ the top cause of death on US farms _ decline as farmers upgrade equipment

Tractor upgrades reduce farm deaths from rollovers

Deaths from tractor rollovers have been dropping in the U.S. as farmers buy new tractors equipped with roll bars, reinforced cabs and seat belts or upgrade older ones with those features.
Tractor rollovers have long been the leading cause of death on U.S. farms. But a study published last year …. Source  : Tractor rollovers _ the top cause of death on US farms _ decline as farmers upgrade equipment.

BP says cost of Gulf of Mexico oil spill reaches $8 billion

BP says cost of Gulf of Mexico spill hits $8B

LONDON – BP says it has so far spent $8 billion responding to the disastrous oil well blowout in the Gulf of Mexico.
The company said Friday that the total included $399 million paid to settle 127,000 claims from businesses and other affected by the oil spill.
The … Read : BP says cost of Gulf of Mexico oil spill reaches $8 billion.

HRCP claims attacks on Shia processions were sectarian

LAHORE – The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has said the triple bombing on mourning processions that killed at least 37 people on Wednesday were orchestrated against a particular sect. The processions were being taken out by Shias when the three suicide attacks took place.

“The attacks on religious processions in Lahore and Karachi have …. Source article  : HRCP claims attacks on Shia processions were sectarian.

Queen furious over Tony Blair memoirs

LONDON – The Queen is angry with Tony Blair as he has branded her snooty in his new autobiography, A Journey.

His memoirs lifted the lid on life with the royals and Her Majesty is not impressed.

The ex-PM described the Queen as stuck-up and divulged details of their private conservations, including how she handled Princess …. Source article  : Queen furious over Tony Blair memoirs.

Key financial backer of Ground Zero mosque once contributed to ‘terror group’

WASHINGTON – Egyptian-born businessman Hisham Elzanaty, who is a key financial backer of the proposed Islamic center near Ground Zero, has been accused of contributing to a US-designated terror group.

Elzanaty has made a significant investment in the Ground Zero mosque project, and also contributed more than 6,000 dollars in 1999 to the Holy Land … Read : Key financial backer of Ground Zero mosque once contributed to ‘terror group’.

Geelani’s efforts to remain in the headlines

NEW DELHI – Syed Ali Shah Geelani, the leader of the hardline faction of the Hurriyat Conference in Kashmir, has, in a press conference in Srinagar on Aug, 31, laid down five pre-conditions which, he feels, would restore peace lead to re-initiation of the dialogue process.

While setting forth the preconditions , he was aware that … Original article on : Geelani’s efforts to remain in the headlines.

Most Americans struggle with long-term weight loss: Study

WASHINGTON – Researchers have found that only about one in every six Americans who have ever been overweight or obese loses weight and maintains that loss.

Penn State College of Medicine researchers analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 1999-2006, a nationwide survey evaluating the health and nutrition of a representative portion …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Most Americans struggle with long-term weight loss: Study.

Mahatma Gandhi’s grandson appeals for international help for flood-ravaged Pak

United Nations, Sept 4 062(ANI): Professor Rajmohan Gandhi, the grandson of Mahatma Gandhi has pitched in for international help for the flood-victims in Pakistan.

Financial and material aid need to be increased, as millions of Pakistanis have been struck by the disaster, the Daily Times quoted Gandhi, as saying in a press conference at the UN …. Original source  : Mahatma Gandhi’s grandson appeals for international help for flood-ravaged Pak.

No curfew in Srinagar despite separatist shutdown

SRINAGAR – Authorities did not impose curfew or restrictions in Srinagar Saturday even though separatists called for a shutdown across Kashmir Valley.

“There are no restrictions anywhere in Srinagar city today (Saturday). Also, there are no restrictions anywhere in north and central Kashmir areas,” a police officer said here.
“Preventive restrictions have been imposed in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : No curfew in Srinagar despite separatist shutdown.

Outrage over Brit-Asian senior council officer’s ‘Servants need a slap’ comment

LONDON – The comments made by a British-Asian senior council officer, Rehana Mohamed, claiming that it is acceptable for employers to slap their servants, has outraged citizens who thought her “stupid remarks were unacceptable.”

She made the remarks on Tweeter after watching a television programme ‘Britain’s Secret Slaves’- a debate on the abuse of foreign … Read : Outrage over Brit-Asian senior council officer’s ‘Servants need a slap’ comment.

Hindus and Jews concerned at dismantling plan of Roma settlements in Rome

NEVADA – Hindus and Jews have strongly criticized Italy for reported dismantling plan of Roma (Gypsy) settlements in Rome.

Noted Hindu statesman Rajan Zed and Rabbi Jonathan B. Freirich, prominent Jewish leader in Nevada and California in USA; in a joint statement in Nevada today, said that after France crackdown on Roma, now it was Italy. …. Original article  : Hindus and Jews concerned at dismantling plan of Roma settlements in Rome.

Hindus and Jews want immediate end to segregation of Roma children in Slovakia

NEVADA – Hindus and Jews have expressed concern at the reported continual segregation of Roma (Gypsy) children in Slovakia schools.oted Hindu statesman Rajan Zed and Rabbi Jonathan B. Freirich, prominent Jewish leader in Nevada and California in USA; in a joint statement in Nevada today, said that according to reports, this segregation of Roma pupils … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Hindus and Jews want immediate end to segregation of Roma children in Slovakia.

Cambridge University academics to probe ‘Twilight’ zone of teenage mind

LONDON – Wondering why teenagers are hooked to Vampire novels and Harry Potter? The answer may not be too far as Cambridge University (CU) academics are set to have a meeting to understand this.

CU is hosting a conference looking at how the Twilight series of romantic vampire novels and similar books and films affect the … Read more »»».

Now, an invisible bra that can be worn under the skin for boob lift!

LONDON – Forget breast implants, for scientists have come up with ‘invisible bra’, which can be worn under the skin.

The internal bra System called Breform is a soft sponge placed under the skin and acts in the same way as a bra without the need for implants to enhance the bust.

The cone-shaped polyester mesh is …. Original article  : Now, an invisible bra that can be worn under the skin for boob lift!.

Women in Kashmir trained in self-defence

RAJOURI – A special camp was organized by the Indian Army in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri District on Friday to train women in the art of self-defence and use of firearms.

The camp organized by Indian troops in the border area, aims at enabling women and girls to defend themselves against attacks by terrorists.

“All the women …. Original source  : Women in Kashmir trained in self-defence.

Obama’s approval rating increases to 46 percent in new Fox News poll

Washington, Sept 4 061(ANI): US president Barack Obama’s approval rating has improved from 43 to 46 percent, according to a new poll by Fox News.

48 percent voters now disapprove the US president’s job performance, which stood in the 43-49 percent range last month.

Responding to Obama’s performance so far, 38 percent voters and 73 percent … Read more »»».

Photography has arrived as universal medium: Lenswoman Dayanita Singh

NEW DELHI – Photography is not just an art form but needs to be seen as a language, says India’s leading contempoaray photographer Dayanita Singh, known for her works in black-and-white.

Singh, who has carried snapshots of everyday India across the world through their striking realistic photographs, mostly in black-and-white frames like lensman Raghu Rai, … Read more : Photography has arrived as universal medium: Lenswoman Dayanita Singh.

NATO says 6 insurgents killed in raid on Taliban base in northern Afghanistan

NATO says 6 Afghan insurgents killed in clash
KABUL, Afghanistan – A Taliban commander was captured and six insurgents killed in a raid on a rebel hide-out in northern Afghanistan, NATO said Saturday.
The assault in the northern province of Takhar follows a string of recent raids on militant leaders that aim to demoralize the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : NATO says 6 insurgents killed in raid on Taliban base in northern Afghanistan.

Nurse finds her long-lost dad in patient

LONDON – A nurse in the US walked into a dying cancer patient’s room and in a twist of fate came face to face with her father who had gone missing from her life over 40 years back, it was reported here Saturday.

Wanda Rodriguez knew it was her father, Victor Peraza, the moment she … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nurse finds her long-lost dad in patient.

10,000 trucks stuck in 120 km monster traffic jam in China

NEW DELHI – A northern China highway virtually became a parking lot when around 10,000 trucks got stuck in a 120 km jam.

An official with Jining traffic police in Inner Mongolia revealed that trucks loaded high with coal from Inner Mongolia were inching forward bumper-to-bumper on the Beijing-Tibet highway, China Daily reported.

Ever since maintenance work … Read more »».

Meet the 106-year-old virgin!

LONDON – A woman, who lives in Edinburgh, has turned 106 and thinks her virginity is the reason behind her long life.

Isa Blyth has never been kissed and attributes her strong will to being single.

“I’m not sure if anyone ever tried it on – but they never got anywhere! She says she never …. Read the original article  : Meet the 106-year-old virgin!.

Sistine Chapel in danger from sweat, dust, hair of 4m visitors a year

LONDON – A Vatican museum director has revealed that the famous Sistine Chapel is facing the risk of serious damage from the sweat, dust, and hair generated by more than four million visitors a year.

Professor Antonio Paolucci said unless the climate control equipment was updated, the 500-year-old frescoes that adorn the ceiling of the Renaissance …. Original source  : Sistine Chapel in danger from sweat, dust, hair of 4m visitors a year.

Northeast terror outfits shifting camp to Myanmar, claims Tripura police chief

AGARTALA – Tripura Director General of Police (DGP) Pranay Sahay has said the terrorist outfits of the northeast are under extreme pressure and are in the process of shifting their base camps to Myanmar following a crackdown by the Bangladesh army.

“Underground groups operating from Bangladesh are under extreme pressure. Many of the groups are in …. Read the original article  : Northeast terror outfits shifting camp to Myanmar, claims Tripura police chief.

Paul Conrad Passes Away

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- Renowned political cartoonist Paul Conrad passed away on September 4. The three time Pulitzer prize winner was 86 at the time of his death. His son David Cameron revealed that he was surrounded by his family at the time of passing on. He also said that he died of natural causes … Original article on : Paul Conrad Passes Away.

India tests BrahMos cruise missile (Second Lead, Changing dateline)

BALASORE – India Sunday successfully test fired the supersonic cruise missile BrahMos from a military base in Orissa.

The missile was tested for the army from the Integrated Test Range of Chandipur in Balasore, some 230 km from Bhubaneswar, director of the test range S.P. Dash told IANS.
“The launch met all mission requirements. It …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : India tests BrahMos cruise missile (Second Lead, Changing dateline).

Scientists recreate Shakespeare’s image

LONDON – Scientists have created the first true image of William Shakespeare — with help from the latest 3D computer technology.

The likeness depicts every wrinkle on the Bard’s face, whose haunted stare is unlike that of any other existing images.
The unflattering image is featured in a TV documentary called ‘Death Masks’, scheduled …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Scientists recreate Shakespeare’s image.

Oz MPs can now ‘officially’ view porn in the name of ‘research’

MELBOURNE – Politicians at New South Wales Parliament House will now be able to access porn sites with prior permission and only if it’s for ‘research’.

Last week, when an apparently unauthorised audit of Internet use was leaked, it revealed that many MPs accessed porn sites from work.

Now, Upper House President Amanda Fazio has reviewed … Read more >>>.

Brit groom impales penis on rusty nail on wedding night

LONDON – A newly married UK couple started their new life on a bad note when the groom skewered his manhood on a rusty nail.

The groom, Michael Race had promised his new wife Amy a wedding night to remember but to his surprise a bench collapsed and he fell hurting himself.

With blood pouring from his …. Read the original article  : Brit groom impales penis on rusty nail on wedding night.

Sarah Palin’s ’stalker’ author moving to Massachusetts

NEW YORK – Former Alaska governor Sarah Palin can now take a breather as her neighbour of three months is moving to his home in Massachusetts.

‘Stalker’ author Joe McGinniss, living next to the Palins on Wasilla’s Lake Lucille, was researching on the former governor and GOP vice presidential candidate for his book.

His arrival in May …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sarah Palin’s ’stalker’ author moving to Massachusetts.

Barbers shut down shops in Peshawar suburb after Taliban death threats

PESHAWAR – Barbers in Sheikhan village, a suburb of Peshawar in Pakistan, have reportedly closed down their shops after receiving death threats from the Taliban, who have started re-emerging in the area.

Militants have imposed a ban on shaving beard, and have threatened to kill barbers who violate the restriction.

“Terrorists kidnapped barber Ali Asghar two weeks …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Barbers shut down shops in Peshawar suburb after Taliban death threats.

Chinese becoming arrogant, intolerant of criticism

BEIJING – A rapid increase of wealth in the past three decades has made Chinese people arrogant, they are no longer modest and talk with contempt about others, a social scientist has said.

Ye Hailin, a research fellow with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, wrote in an opinion published in the People’s Daily that the …. Read the original article  : here.

Karzai forms committee to push for peace talks with Taliban

LONDON – Afghan President Hamid Karzai has reportedly formed a committee to seek peace talks with the Taliban.

According to the BBC, a statement from Karzai’s office has said the creation of the High Peace Council is a “significant step toward peace talks.” It said members of the council would be named later, but …. Source article  : Karzai forms committee to push for peace talks with Taliban.

Prince William’s girlfriend to see a lot less of him as duty calls

LONDON – Prince William is set to promoted as a search-and-rescue pilot, which means his long-time girlfriend Kate Middleton will now see much less of him than when he was training.

According to RAF sources, the Prince is going to have to move into barracks at RAF Valley in Anglesey after he passes out later this … Read more »»».

Levi Johnston needs to go back to school: Bristol Palin

NEW YORK – Sarah Palin’s daughter Bristol has said that her baby-daddy Levi Johnston needs to go back to school.

Bristol appeared on ‘The Tonight Show with Jay Leno’ to talk about her upcoming appearance on ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ but the conversation inevitably turned to her former boyfriend Levi Johnston.

“He’s changed. Night and day, definitely,” …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Breadwinning dads scared to ask bosses to cut working hours: Oz study

MELBOURNE – Fathers struggling to juggle jobs and family responsibilities admit they are scared to ask bosses to reduce their hours for fear it may harm their careers, says an Australian study.

A Galaxy survey conducted for Father’s Day reveals that while most dads battle to balance work and fatherhood, younger dads have the biggest problems …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

India tests BrahMos cruise missile

BHUBANESWAR – India Sunday successfully test fired supersonic cruise missile BrahMos from a military base in Orissa, an official said.

The missile was tested for the army from the Integrated Test Range of Chandipur in Balasore, some 230 km from Bhubaneswar, director of the test range S.P. Dash told IANS.
“The launch met all mission requirements. … Read more >>.

Australian men becoming ‘too soft’

SYDNEY – Australian men are now becoming “too soft” and have “ditched their manhood to become metrosexuals”.

A survey was conducted among “Aussie blokes”, which said that the findings were a “little un-Australian”, the Herald Sun reported Sunday.
It was conducted ahead of a multi-million-dollar national campaign for Australia’s VB beer company that hit television screens …. Source article  : Australian men becoming ‘too soft’.

Nepal Parliament to vote for a sixth time for post of PM

KATHMANDU – Parliament in Nepal will vote for a sixth time on Sunday for the post of Prime Minister.ccording to Nepalnews, all political parties have remained firm on their stance and there hasn’t been any progress an talks among parties.

The CPN (UML) and the Madhesi parties, which have a critical role to play in …. Source article  : Nepal Parliament to vote for a sixth time for post of PM.

Lashker militant killed in Poonch encounter

POONCH – A suspected militant of the Lashker-e-Toiba (LeT) was killed and a jawan injured in a gunbattle in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch District on Sunday morning.

Acting on a tip-off, Rashtriya Rifles (RR) troops and police launched a search and cordon operation in the Bhatti-Dar area of Mendhar Tehsil.

During a search operation, a joint … Read more >>>.

Taliban regrouping in FATA to attack Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

PESHAWAR – The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has claimed the Taliban is regrouping in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) of Pakistan, in a bid to launch attacks on it and Punjab.

“They are reorganising and regrouping themselves in the Tribal Areas and posing a grave danger to the peace and security of the country,” the Daily …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Taliban regrouping in FATA to attack Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

100 mega volt power transformer catches fire in Agra

AGRA – A massive fire engulfed a 100 mega-volt ampere transformer installed at a power sub station in Agra on Sunday.

Twenty two fire tenders, including those from the Army and the Air Force, battled the fire for four and half hours before it was completely brought under control.

“When we came the fire was raging. We …. Original article  : 100 mega volt power transformer catches fire in Agra.

Pakistan wants Law Minister Sanaullah ousted for links with terrorists: Taseer

LAHORE – The Governor of Pakistan’s Punjab province, Salmaan Taseer, has claimed that the entire country wants Punjab Law Minister Rana Sanaullah removed, for having links with terrorists.

Taseer added that the entire nation was now aware of Sanaullah’s alleged relations with militants and wanted him to be removed.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) is …. Source article  : Pakistan wants Law Minister Sanaullah ousted for links with terrorists: Taseer.

Seven killed, four injured in US drone strike in North Waziristan

MIRAMSHAH/PESHAWAR – A US drone strike has killed seven more people, including some suspect terrorists, and has left four others wounded, at Maizer village in North Waziristan.

This was the third strike by US drones in Pakistan in a span of 24 hours, The News quoted government officials, as saying.

Two missiles were fired at a double-cabin …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Seven killed, four injured in US drone strike in North Waziristan.

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.

UN’s court for settling member disputes swears in new US, Chinese judges

New US, Chinese judges take seats on UN court

THE HAGUE, Netherlands – The U.N. court that settles disputes among member states has sworn in new judges from the United States and China to join the 15-member bench.
Joan Donoghue was the top legal adviser on international law to President Barack Obama and Secretary of State Hillary …. Original source  : UN’s court for settling member disputes swears in new US, Chinese judges.

Crown prince takes over throne of northern Malaysian state amid rare succession feud

Malaysia prince takes over throne amid bitter feud

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A prince took over a northern Malaysian state’s throne Monday, allegedly against his bedridden father’s wishes in a bitter succession tussle that has given a rare glimpse into behind-the-scenes court intrigue.
Tengku Muhammad Faris Petra was proclaimed the new sultan of northern Kelantan state following … Read : Crown prince takes over throne of northern Malaysian state amid rare succession feud.

Maoist guerrillas kill 6 people, including 2 policemen, in attacks across eastern India

Maoist rebels kill 6 in restive eastern India
CALCUTTA, India – Maoist rebels killed six people, including two policemen in a brazen assault on a police station, in separate attacks in restive eastern India, police said Monday.
Communist guerrillas ordered four men out of their homes and then shot them dead in a late-night attack …. Read the original article  : here.

More protests erupt in Kashmir, another youth killed

SRINAGAR – A young man was killed as security forces fired at a mob of protesters in north Kashmir Bandipora district Monday, taking to 71 the toll in the ongoing unrest in the Kashmir Valley. Protesters defied curfew and took to the streets following rumours that the Quran had been desecrated in the US.

“Nisar …. Read the original article  : here.

Iran to release one of three UK hikers held for over a year for 500,000 dollars bail money

LONDON – Iran’s chief prosecutor, Abbas Jafari Dolatabadi, has said that one of the three American hikers, Sarah Shourd, held in the Evin prison for over a year on spying charges, would be released for 500,000 dollars in bail money on grounds of … Read : Iran to release one of three UK hikers held for over a year for 500,000 dollars bail money.

Musharraf made desperate attempts to save Taliban, bin laden from US wrath after 9/11: Report

NEW DELHI – Following the 9/11 terror strikes, when the US had made up its mind to bombard Afghanistan, Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and then President Pervez Musharraf made full efforts to save the Taliban and tried to persuade a … Read more »».

The situation in Jammu and Kashmir: Beginning the Dialogue-Part One

NEW DELHI – The Home Minister, P. Chidambaram, has talked about finding the elusive starting point for beginning talks in Kashmir. The starting point is, no doubt, elusive, but it will be found, sooner or later. However, finding the starting point cannot be the end in itself. The … Read more »»».

Yamuna river water levels further recede

NEW DELHI – Water level of the River Yamuna further receded on Monday, but there were fears that it may go up again as Haryana released over 1.5 lakh cusecs of water into the river.

The water level came down to 205.39 metres, which is still 56 cm above the danger mark of … Read more : Yamuna river water levels further recede.

Obama’s election a ‘wonderful con,’ president ‘dishonest’: Ex-Speaker Gingrich

NEW YORK – Former House of Representatives Speaker Newt Gingrinch has described President Barack Obama’s election victory in 2008 as a “wonderful con on the American people, and added that Obama is essentially a dishonest head of state.

“This is a person who is fundamentally out of touch with how … Original source on Gaea Times at : Obama’s election a ‘wonderful con,’ president ‘dishonest’: Ex-Speaker Gingrich.

President Patil arrives in Cambodia after ending successful visit to Lao

PHNOM PENH – President Pratibha Devisingh Patil arrived today on a six-day state visit to Cambodia from September 13 to 18 with the objective of strengthening enduring partnerships with countries of the ASEAN region as …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Another youth killed in Kashmir, toll now 71

SRINAGAR – A young man was killed and another critically injured when security forces opened fire on a mob of protesters in north Kashmir Bandipora district Monday, taking to 71 the toll in the current phase of unrest in the Kashmir Valley.

“Nisar Ahmed Bhat, a protesting youth, was killed and another was injured when …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Another youth killed in Kashmir, toll now 71.

Singaporean women wearing low-cut outfits risk losing their jobs

KUALA LUMPUR – Women in Singapore risk losing their jobs as they wear low-cut outfits that show off their cleavage.

According to the Sin Chew Daily, many employers are of the opinion that outfits, which reveal the cleavage, are … Read more »»».

AFSPA withdrawal row : Omar Abdullah meets Chidambaram, Sonia ahead of Cabinet meet

NEW DELHI – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah met Union Home Minister P Chidambaram and Congress President Sonia Gandhi here on Monday ahead of a crucial Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting to discuss the withdrawal of the Armed Forces Special Powers …. Source article  : AFSPA withdrawal row : Omar Abdullah meets Chidambaram, Sonia ahead of Cabinet meet.

You can get addicted to gambling if you live closer to gambling venues

MELBOURNE – A new study has revealed that living or working near gambling venues could directly affect problem gambling.

Researchers at Swinburne University of Technology have found that people are more likely to gamble if they have gambling venues close to home and work.

“Geographical … Read more >>.

Meet the giant dog ‘Down Under’ that eats like a horse

MELBOURNE – An Oz dog lover is having a challenging time maintaining his new great Pyrenees-Snowbear or ‘Bear’-as he eats a lot.

According to the Parramatta Advertiser, Gary Randfleish bought the dog earlier this year and there are only two in NSW.

At just four years old, the gentle giant … Original article on : Meet the giant dog ‘Down Under’ that eats like a horse.

Forbes predicts Mukesh Ambani to be world’s richest man in 2014

NEW DELHI – Indian business tycoon and the head of Reliance Industries Mukesh Ambani, with a net worth of 62 billion dollars, would be the richest man on earth in 2014, according to a Forbes magazine forecast.

“One of the predictions is that Reliance Industries’ chief Ambani, … Read : Forbes predicts Mukesh Ambani to be world’s richest man in 2014.

Oz gay couple paying 80, 000 dollars to Indian women to have surrogate babies

CAIRNS – An Australian gay couple are reportedly paying two Indian women 300 dollars a day for giving birth to their surrogate babies.

According to Cairns.com.au, they are believed to be the first gay dads in Queensland to pay Indian women to carry their children, with the total bill costing up …. Source  : Oz gay couple paying 80, 000 dollars to Indian women to have surrogate babies.

Priyanka’s Shimla cottage runs into rough weather

SHIMLA – Priyanka Vadra’s dream cottage, being built in the wooded Charabra hills near here, has run into rough weather — literally. Heavy rains have washed away the Gandhi scion’s plans of having a slate roof and this is now being replaced with steel.

Priyanka, the daughter of Congress president Sonia Gandhi, was very particular about … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Priyanka’s Shimla cottage runs into rough weather.

NATO airstrikes kill 14 insurgents in Afghanistan after troops concluded civilians not at risk

NATO: Airstrikes kill 14 insurgents in Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – NATO says airstrikes have killed 14 insurgents in central Afghanistan.
The military alliance said in a statement Monday that the air power was used after a joint NATO-Afghan patrol came under small arms and machine-gun fire from militants. It happened Sunday while the patrol was crossing a … Read : NATO airstrikes kill 14 insurgents in Afghanistan after troops concluded civilians not at risk.

Quran burning would have “strengthened radicals”: Ground Zero mosque imam

NEW YORK – Feisal Abdul Rauf, the imam behind the proposed mosque near Ground Zero in New York, has said that Florida Pastor Terry Jones’ plans to burn copies of the Quran would have sparked “a disaster”.

Rauf said that the …. Source article  : Quran burning would have “strengthened radicals”: Ground Zero mosque imam.

Tamilnadu Electricity Board’s Green Measures

TAMILNADU, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Tamil Nadu Electricity Board is keen on using eco friendly and less power consuming appliances in government organizations in the state. It is promoting the use of energy efficient compact fluorescent lights and trying to replace the existing incandescent bulbs and that is why it has decided to implement the … Read more >>>.

Czechs ban Google from continuing its mapping feature in ‘Street View’; give no exact reason

Czechs ban Google from expanding ‘Street View’

PRAGUE – Authorities in the Czech Republic have banned Google Inc. from continuing in its mapping feature “Street View” in the eastern European country.
The Czech Office for Personal Data Protection says Google has not been granted a necessary registration for the activity. Spokeswoman Hana Stepankova declined to give details …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Czechs ban Google from continuing its mapping feature in ‘Street View’; give no exact reason.

Bank Of Baroda Clerical Results

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- For all those who have been eagerly waiting for the results of the written test for the recruitment of clerks in Bank of Baroda, the wait is over. As evident in the hot searches list for the day, people have been scrambling the web for the results that have been announced. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Bank Of Baroda Clerical Results.

Soldiers need legal protection, says IAF chief

NEW DELHI – While political dilemma over revocation of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) from Jammu and Kashmir continues, the Indian Air Force chief Tuesday stressed the need for legal protection to soldiers.

“Soldiers while involved in performing their duty need legal protection if you want them to be efficient,” IAF chief …. Original article  : Soldiers need legal protection, says IAF chief.

One in 30 Britons have never done a day’s work in their lifetime, says report

LONDON – One in 30 Britons, about 1.4 million, have never done a day’s work in their lifetime according to the Department for Work and Pensions statistics.

There are reportedly 41 million people of working age in the UK. Of the 1.4 million without a job, around … Original article on : One in 30 Britons have never done a day’s work in their lifetime, says report.

US”mother of all’ 60 billion dollar arms deal with Saudi Arabia

LONDON – The Pentagon is reportedly all set to notify the US Congress over selling up to 60 billion dollars worth of sophisticated warplanes to Saudi Arabia, and could add another 30 billion dollars worth of naval arms in the biggest deal … Read more : US’ ‘mother of all’ 60 billion dollar arms deal with Saudi Arabia.

Succession crisis in North Korea unlikely: Experts

NEW DELHI – Leading Korean Peninsula experts have ruled out the possibility of a “succession crisis” in North Korea.

During a session open to international media on what if there is a “succession crisis” in DPRK, in Davos, leading experts from China, South … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Succession crisis in North Korea unlikely: Experts.

Musharraf raises Rs250 mn in three-hour live “telethon” for Pakistan flood relief

KARACHI – Pakistan’s former military ruler Pervez Musharraf has collaborated with a private television channel to appeal for aid and has reportedly garnered pledges of hundreds of millions of rupees for flood relief and rehabilitation work in the country.

Musharraf, participating from London in a [..] Read the original article: here.

Canadian Government to discuss ways to halt Lankan Tamil migrant rush

TORONTO – Having been warned eight months ago about a sudden rush of Lankan Tamil refugees, the Stephen Harper-led Conservative Government in Canada is likely to discuss and decide next week options for discouraging future vessels of refugee claimants.

Measures under consideration are believed … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Canadian Government to discuss ways to halt Lankan Tamil migrant rush.

“Democracy is strong” in Pak, ‘criminal’ to think of military rule possibility: Gilani

MULTAN – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has reiterated that the democratically elected federal government was strong, the judiciary functional, and called the very thought of expecting martial law “undemocratic and criminal.”

“Democracy is strong, the …. Read the original article  : “Democracy is strong” in Pak, ‘criminal’ to think of military rule possibility: Gilani.

Rahul Gandhi arrives in West Bengal on three-day visit

KOLKATA – Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi arrived here today on a three-day visit of West Bengal in order to rejuvenate the state Congress ahead of next year’s assembly elections.

He left for Panagarh in Burdwan District where he will interact with students of the Visva Bharati … Read more >>.

Taliban may be eyeing role in Afghan politics again

KABUL – Taliban leaders are apparently nurturing hopes of rebuilding their political clout in Kabul, according to a top United Nations envoy and some Afghan politicians.

“Any indication that they’re moving from bullets to ballots, as imperfect as it might be, is a good indicator,” the Washington Post …. Source  : Taliban may be eyeing role in Afghan politics again.

DGP Kuldeep Khoda blames Hurriyat (G) for Monday’s violence

SRINAGAR – Director General of Police (DGP) Kuldeep Khoda has accused Hurriyat Conference (G) of inciting violence in the Kashmir Valley.

“Hurriyat (G) chairman Syed Ali Geelani’s close aide, Imtiyaz Haider had made plans to provoke people to assemble at various places across Kashmir. … Read more »».

In back-to-school speech, Obama tells students nothing is beyond reach if they focus on school

Obama: Students should work hard, focus on school
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is taking to the nation’s airwaves once again, this time for an address to America’s schoolchildren in which he will tell them nothing is beyond their reach as long as they dream big, work hard and focus on learning.
Obama will … Original source on Gaea Times at : In back-to-school speech, Obama tells students nothing is beyond reach if they focus on school.

US eyes first-ever criminal charges against radical cleric al-Awlaki, already marked for death

US eyes terror charges for Yemeni cleric al-Awlaki

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration is considering filing criminal charges against Anwar al-Awlaki, the radical cleric thought to have been involved with the plot to blow up a Detroit-bound airliner last Christmas.
Shortly after that failed attack, the White House authorized the CIA to kill or capture al-Awlaki. He …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Commonwealth games helps project image of India, says Lalit Bhanot

NEW DELHI – Reacting to the amount of money spent for organising the Commonwealth Games, Lalit Bhanot, Secretary General of Commonwealth Games Organising Committee said that the projection of the country before the world is far more important.

Talking to reporters here, Bhanot said: “As for the …. Read the original article  : Commonwealth games helps project image of India, says Lalit Bhanot.

Wrestler Sushil Kumar returns home

NEW DELHI – Sushil Kumar, winner of the gold medal in world wrestling championship received a hero’s welcome as he returned to Delhi Monday night.

Hundreds of fans and supporters thronged Indira Gandhi International Airport as Sushil Kumar arrived in India.

Talking … Read more >>.

Brit student banned for life from US for branding Obama ‘p***k’ through e-mail

LONDON – A British teenager, who sent an email to the White House calling President Obama a “p***k,” has been banned from the US for life.

The Foreign Bureau of Investigation (FBI) had asked local cops to tell the 17-year-old college student Luke Angel, that his drunken insult … Read more »»».

“Lucky man” Musharraf not scared to ‘try his luck again’ and “face the music” in Pak

LONDON – Pakistan’s former military ruler Pervez Musharraf has vowed to return to his homeland before the next election due in 2013 in a bid to “try his luck” in the presidential elections.

Musharraf, who ousted …. Original article  : “Lucky man” Musharraf not scared to ‘try his luck again’ and “face the music” in Pak.

Over six in 10 Florida white voters inspired by Obama’s win despite lingering racism

Gainesville (Florida, US),S – A new University of Florida (UF) study has found over six in ten white Florida voters inspired by and proud of the presidential candidacy of a black man, despite the presence of lingering racism.

According to two UF political scientists, results … Read more : Over six in 10 Florida white voters inspired by Obama’s win despite lingering racism.

US envoy says no quick progress likely in restarting North Korea nuclear disarmament talks

US envoy: No quick progress likely in NKorea talks

BEIJING – A special U.S. envoy arrived in Beijing on Wednesday for talks on restarting stalled negotiations on North Korea’s nuclear disarmament, although he said no quick breakthroughs are likely.
North Korea walked out of the six-nation talks last year to protest international criticism of its long-range rocket [..] Read the original article: here.

‘Ghost’ in UK pub ‘freaks out’ owner

LONDON – A man was left shocked when he spotted a ‘ghost’ in the CCTV footage of his UK bar.

The ‘ghost’ appeared at 18 minutes past midnight in the Wolfe Pub in Penrith, Cumbria, hovered in the air in the deserted bar for 31 seconds and then shot off.

Stunned Andrew Batemen, 38, showed the footage … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Ghost’ in UK pub ‘freaks out’ owner.

Marks and Spencer criticised for bra that can be worn only for 8 hours

LONDON – British retail store Marks and Spencer has been criticised for selling a bra that can be worn for just eight hours.

The 20 pounds stick-on strapless bra, which has been marketed as “ideal for wearing with strapless or backless dresses and tops”, has a manufacturer’s tag indicating it should not be worn for more …. Source  : Marks and Spencer criticised for bra that can be worn only for 8 hours.

Conservationists say keeping tigers alive in the wild costs 80 m dollars per year

LONDON – The cost of keeping tigers alive in the wild is about 80 million dollars per year, say conservationists, but only about 50 million dollars per year is being pledged.

According to the BBC, the figures come from a new assessment that suggests targeting efforts in 42 selected breeding sites.

Building tiger populations in these sites … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Conservationists say keeping tigers alive in the wild costs 80 m dollars per year.

Bank of England governor to face potentially unfriendly audience at union conference

Bank of England head to address union conference

LONDON – Bank of England Governor Mervyn King is to face a potentially unfriendly audience as he addresses a conference of trade union leaders.
King is to speak to the annual gathering of the country’s main union federation, the Trades Union Congress, on Wednesday. King is also expected to … Read : Bank of England governor to face potentially unfriendly audience at union conference.

Stringent visa rules, fear of attack on ethnic students affecting Oz varsity export earnings

MELBOURNE – Universities in Australia rely heavily on foreign student fees to keep themselves financially afloat, but over the past 18 months, a number of factors have led to a fall in the number of overseas students wanting to study in Australia.

According … Read more : Stringent visa rules, fear of attack on ethnic students affecting Oz varsity export earnings.

Google sacks engineer for violating privacy policies

WASHINGTON – Google has sacked one of its engineers, David Barksdale, for breaching privacy policies after it was alleged that he had harassed several underage teens and spied on their private data.

According to News.com.au, 27-year-old Barksdale, who worked as a site reliability … Read more >>>.

Former Iranian president Rafsanjani urges Govt. not to take international sanctions as a “joke”

TEHRAN – Former Iranian president Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani has criticised the government for not adhering to the Islamic Republic’s laws and urged it not to take international sanctions as “joke” as the Islamic republic is facing its worst ever assault from the global community.

“We have never been …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Former Iranian president Rafsanjani urges Govt. not to take international sanctions as a “joke”.

American Tea Party backed candidates stun Republicans in primaries

WASHINGTON – Two unknown Republican Senate primary candidates, Christine O’Donnell and Ovide Lamontagne, backed by the Tea Party have rocked their entrenched party opponents by winning nominations on Tuesday, posing a major disappointment to the political establishment on the last big day of the primaries.

Christine O’Donnell, …. Source  : American Tea Party backed candidates stun Republicans in primaries.

Eiffel Tower reopens as normal after bomb threat from anonymous caller

Eiffel Tower reopens after bomb threat, evacuation

PARIS – The Eiffel Tower has reopened a day after being evacuated because of a bomb threat from an anonymous caller.
Paris police said Wednesday that no enhanced security measures were planned at France’s most visited monument, and an investigation has been handed over to the city prosecutor’s office.
Explosives experts …. Source article  : Eiffel Tower reopens as normal after bomb threat from anonymous caller.

American freed after more than a year in Iranian prison now resting in Oman after bail deal

Freed American resting in Oman after bail deal

MUSCAT, Oman – American Sarah Shourd is resting in Oman’s capital Muscat on her first full day of freedom after a surprise bail deal with Iran secured her release after more than 13 months in custody.
U.S. and Omani officials say it’s unclear how long Shourd will stay in … Read : American freed after more than a year in Iranian prison now resting in Oman after bail deal.

Indian-American body to honour 10 for serving community

WASHINGTON – The National Federation of Indian American Associations (NFIA) will honour 10 Indian Americans for their outstanding achievements and contributions to humanity and society at its 30th anniversary convention in New York over the weekend.

The honours will be bestowed on the 10 at the 2010 NFIA Awards banquet Saturday, echoing the theme of … Read more : Indian-American body to honour 10 for serving community.

Ex-sports official lifts lid on East German doping regime

LONDON – A former sports official has acknowledged that there was widespread state-sponsored doping in Communist-dominant East Germany in the 1970s.

Thomas Koehler has revealed this fact in his book “Two Sides of the Medal,” which is being published later this week.

“The sports leadership decided to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Andhra Pradesh safe for investors and industries, says Rosaiah

HYDERABAD – Inviting industries to invest, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K. Rosaiah has assured full support to entrepreneurs and business holdings looking to set up base in the region.

Speaking at a seminar hosted by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) here, Rosaiah said that …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Lesbians flock to Greece’s Lesbos Island for festival

LONDON – Lesbos Island in Greece witnessed huge numbers of lesbians from across Europe who have gathered there for the tenth annual International Women’s Festival.

Since a decade of its commencement, attendance at the two-week International Women’s Festival in the village of Eressos … Read more : Lesbians flock to Greece’s Lesbos Island for festival.

Martin Luther King’s trusted civil rights photographer was FBI informant

LONDON – Martin Luther King Jr’s confidant, who was a well-known photographer of the US civil rights era, was a FBI informant, it has emerged.

Ernest Withers, who died in 2007 at the age of 85, took some of the most famous pictures of King, including him riding one of the first … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Martin Luther King’s trusted civil rights photographer was FBI informant.

Curfew continues in Kashmir Valley

SRINAGAR – Curfew continued in the Kashmir Valley for the third day on Wednesday.

Curfew continues to remain in force in Srinagar, Budgam and adjoining areas including Chadoora in central Kashmir, Ganderbal and adjoining areas including Kangan in north-east of the valley.

Anantnag, Kulgam, Qoimoh, Pulwama, Shopian, [..] Read the original article: here.

New 3D Wonderbra ad ‘distraction to drivers’

LONDON – A 3D advertisement by bra company Wonderbra, which features a well-enhanced woman’s cleavage, is being considered a road safety hazard, as it can be distracting for drivers.

The poster, which has been erected near London Waterloo station to promote the …. Read the original article  : here.

Kumar Mahadevan, ex MasterChef Jimmy Seervai to host Sydney dinners

MELBOURNE – Well-known Indian chef Kumar Mahadevan and former Masterchef contestant Jimmy Seervai are set to host a series of dinner events in Sydney.

The ‘Kumar and Jimmy Nights’ will be held at chef Mahadevan’s celebrated Indian restaurant Aki’s in Wooloomoolloo on September 28 – 29, where fans will get …. Source  : Kumar Mahadevan, ex MasterChef Jimmy Seervai to host Sydney dinners.

Brit celebrity stalker gets “orgasmic” over roly-poly minister Eric Pickles

LONDON – A woman in Britain, who has been stalking celebrities, had to be escorted out of a Tory meeting after she started getting “orgasmic” over roly-poly minister Eric Pickles.

Alida O’Reilly, 28, who is said to be obsessed with Tories including David Cameron, astonished Conservative workers …. Read the original article  : here.

Army to play proactive role in thwarting Geelani’s ‘Quit Kashmir’ protests

SRINAGAR – The Omar Abdullah-led Government in Jammu and Kashmir has reportedly decided to use the Army proactively to prevent separatist hardliner Syed Ali Shah Geelani from going ahead with his plan of organizing mass demonstrations and shutdowns across the Kashmir valley on September 21.

Geelani’s ‘Quit Jammu and Kashmir Movement’ move has shaken the …. Read the original article  : Army to play proactive role in thwarting Geelani’s ‘Quit Kashmir’ protests.

China delivers third F-22P frigate to Pak Navy

ISLAMABAD – In yet another landmark achievement in the expansion of the unwavering bilateral defence cooperation between Pakistan and China, Beijing on Wednesday delivered the third of the four F-22P frigates PNS Saif to the Pakistan Navy.

The newly built warship of the sword class series constructed by Hudong Zhonghua Shipyard Shanghai was delivered in a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : China delivers third F-22P frigate to Pak Navy.

Southend babes are UK’s sexiest

LONDON – Essex girls can feel proud, for Southend-on-Sea has been named the sexiest town in the UK.

The gorgeous babes from the seaside resort overshadowed the lovely lasses from other parts of the country, including Weymouth, Southport, Blackpool and Barry Island.

Southend already has an elongated list of producing beauties, which includes actresses Kara and Hannah …. Source  : Southend babes are UK’s sexiest.

ADB 170 million dollar facility to help Bihar, Maharashtra modernize horticulture systems

MANILA – The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is extending a 170 million dollars multi-tranche financing facility to help the Indian states of Bihar and Maharashtra modernize their horticulture industries, boosting the incomes of farmers and other vulnerable rural groups.

ADB’s Board of Directors today approved the facility for the Agribusiness Infrastructure Development Investment Program, which … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ADB 170 million dollar facility to help Bihar, Maharashtra modernize horticulture systems.

Historic Mela Patt fair celebrated in Bhaderwah

BHADERWAH – Colorful folk dances marked the annual three-day fair ‘Mela Patt’ celebrations in Bhaderwah sub-division of Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district.

The festival, which concluded Wednesday, is celebrated every year after it was started by Raja Nagpal, the 16th century ruler of the then small principality of Bhaderkashi, now known as Bhaderwah.

The festival begins on … Read more >>.

Envoy says US to continue dual approach of dialogue, sanctions toward North Korea

US envoy says pursing talks, sanctions on NKorea

BEIJING – The United States will continue a dual strategy of seeking talks with North Korea while pursing sanctions over its nuclear programs, the chief U.S. envoy on dealings with the North said Thursday.
Ambassador Stephen Bosworth, in Beijing for two days of meetings with Chinese officials, said there …. Original source  : Envoy says US to continue dual approach of dialogue, sanctions toward North Korea.

ADB provides 300 million dollars to Bihar to improve roads, boost growth

MANILA – The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has decided to extend 300 million dollar grant to Bihar for road improvements that will help spur new livelihood opportunities and boost sustainable growth.

ADB’s Board of Directors today approved the loan for … Original article on : ADB provides 300 million dollars to Bihar to improve roads, boost growth.

Traditional welcome given to President Patil in Siem Reap

SIEM REAP – President Pratibha Devisingh Patil arrived in Siem Reap on Thursday, where the world famous heritage temples of Angkor Vat are located.

The trip has been undertaken in order to strengthen historical and cultural ties which have existed for more than 2000 years.

President Patil was given … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Traditional welcome given to President Patil in Siem Reap.

Republican Senate chances dealt a fatal blow by Tea Party

LONDON – The Boston-based Tea Party has dealt a potentially fatal blow to the Republicans hopes of recapturing the Senate in the mid-term elections, senior Republicans have warned.

The Republicans have got the biggest shock of five senate primary victories in recent months … Read more : Republican Senate chances dealt a fatal blow by Tea Party.

Sufism, America, Nano, poetry to tease the intellect (IANS Books This Week)

NEW DELHI – The bookcase is exciting, funny and offbeat this weekend.

1. Book: “Looking for America”; Written by Avirook Sen; Published by Harper Collins-India; Priced at Rs.299
Armed with only an outsider’s insight, a sense of humour and sturdy shoes, journalist-writer Avirook Sen sets out on a journey across America. It … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sufism, America, Nano, poetry to tease the intellect (IANS Books This Week).

Yasin Malik’s cousin 90th victim in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) chairman Yasin Malik’s cousin, injured in police firing here, has become the 90th victim of the ongoing Kashmir violence.

Yaseer Hameed Sheikh, shot in Maisuma locality Aug 30 while playing carom on the road with friends, succumbed to his injuries in a New Delhi hospital Wednesday night. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Yasin Malik’s cousin 90th victim in Kashmir.

Owner lay dead as buyers were shown around house

LONDON – Prospective buyers were shown around a house in Britain by an estate agent while the owner lay dead on her sofa.

Estate agent Samuel Allfort said he assumed the 55-year-old woman was sleeping and continued with the visit that had been pre-arranged, Westminster Coroner’s Court heard Thursday.
After the buyers left, Allfort returned to …. Source article  : Owner lay dead as buyers were shown around house.

Omar Abdullah thanks Rahul Gandhi for support

SRINAGAR – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday thanked Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi for backing him.

‘I am grateful to Rahul Gandhi for his support. I will thank him personally,’ Abdullah said.

Earlier addressing a press conference in Kolkata, Rahul Gandhi said … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Omar Abdullah thanks Rahul Gandhi for support.

Both Republicans, Democrats are evenly placed for mid-term polls

NEW YORK – The latest New York Times/CBS News poll has found that while voters rate the performance of Democrats negatively, they view Republicans as even worse, providing a potential opening for Democrats to make a last-ditch case for keeping their hold …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Both Republicans, Democrats are evenly placed for mid-term polls.

World’s smallest cow enters Guinness Book of World Records

LONDON – A Dexter cow from Cheshire has entered the 2011 Guinness Book of World Records for being the smallest in the world.

Swallow, an 11-year-old cow, who is currently pregnant, stands 33.5in (0.8m) tall from hind to foot, which is shorter than most sheep.

Owner Caroline Ryder has described Swallow, … Original source on Gaea Times at : World’s smallest cow enters Guinness Book of World Records.

Jet Li’s ‘ nascent’ One Foundation charity faces closure in China

BEIJING – Actor-turned-philanthropist Jet Li has described his charity One Foundation as ‘a kid without an identity’ as its contract with official Red Cross Society of China is about to end this year, without which the … Original article on : Jet Li’s ‘ nascent’ One Foundation charity faces closure in China.

America ‘under attack’ by non violent ’stealth jihad’, warns Security Report

LONDON – Security analysts have warned in a new report that America is ‘under attack’ by a non-violent ’stealth jihad’, with fundamentalists attempting to bring Islamic law known as ‘Shariah’ to the United States.

The report, sponsored by the Center for Security … Read more : America ‘under attack’ by non violent ’stealth jihad’, warns Security Report.

Internet founder calls for free access worldwide

LONDON – The inventor of the Internet has called for everyone to have access to his creation for free.

Tim Berners-Lee said that he would like to see everybody given a low-bandwidth connection “by default”.

He said the web could be instrumental in giving people access to critical services such as healthcare.

Currently, he said, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Internet founder calls for free access worldwide.

Rahul Gandhi says political connectivity a must to bring Naxals into mainstream

KOLKATA – Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi on Thursday said that political connectivity should be ensured to bring Naxals into the mainstream.

“If we give them (Naxalites) political connectivity, they will be able to join the mainstream,” Gandhi told a press conference here today.

” We have to ensure political connectivity so that the …. Source  : Rahul Gandhi says political connectivity a must to bring Naxals into mainstream.

Ex-Tiger Daya Master says Lanka civil war a waste of people’s lives

COLOMBO – Former Tamil Tiger media spokesman Daya Master, who now manages a TV channel in Jaffna, has said the decades-long war between the LTTE and government troops was a waste of people’s lives.

Daya Master said he was glad that the country was now …. Original source  : Ex-Tiger Daya Master says Lanka civil war a waste of people’s lives.

Hindustani music doyen Puttaraj Gavai is dead

BANGALORE – Puttaraj Gavai, a doyen of Hindustani music and exponent of the Gwalior Gharana, died Friday after a brief illness. He was 96.

He passed away at his ashram in Gadag in north Karnataka, about 480 km from here, the ashram authorities announced.
Winner of the Padma Bhushan, India’s third highest civilian award, Gavai … Original article on : Hindustani music doyen Puttaraj Gavai is dead.

Britain’s Prince William passes final flying tests, becomes search-and-rescue chopper pilot

Prince William gets his search-and-rescue wings

LONDON – After seven months of training, Prince William is going to graduate as a fully qualified search-and-rescue helicopter pilot.
His London office said William, who is second in line to the throne, is receiving a certificate and his Royal Air Force squadron badge in a small ceremony Friday.
Known in the … Read : Britain’s Prince William passes final flying tests, becomes search-and-rescue chopper pilot.

Bad boss – the main reason workers quit

MELBOURNE – If you’re a bad boss, don’t be shocked to hear ‘I Quit’ from employees more often.

A global research organization, Gallup, has found that caliber of the boss is the primary reason people stayed in the organization but also the main reason people left.

Workplace management expert Tony Wilson also believes that bosses should look …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bad boss – the main reason workers quit.

Australia doubles Pak flood aid to 75 million dollars

SYDNEY – The Australian government has decided to raise its aid to flood-ravaged Pakistan by 40 million dollars to bring its total commitment to 75 million dollars.

Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd made the announcement while making a flying visit to Pakistan’s Punjab province.

The latest package includes 11 million dollars in aid to help address urgent humanitarian …. Original article  : Australia doubles Pak flood aid to 75 million dollars.

Muslim extremist threat forces Spain’s ‘La Meca’ nightclub to change its name

LONDON – Facing a threat from Muslim extremists, a popular Spanish nightclub has been forced to change its name from La Meca.

La Meca (Spanish for Mecca), was the most popular disco in the coastal city of Aguila, in Murcia, southeastern Spain, in the 1980s and 90s before it closed down a decade ago.

According to the …. Source article  : Muslim extremist threat forces Spain’s ‘La Meca’ nightclub to change its name.

Female workers sue banking firm Goldman Sachs over sex discrimination

LONDON – Three female executives have sued global investment banking firm Goldman Sachs over an alleged boys’ club culture of sex discrimination.

Former vice president H.Cristina Chen-Oster, 39, former vice president Lisa Parisi, 48, and ex-associate Shanna Orlich, 30, who were paid up to 415,000 pounds a year, claim they were sidelined and forced out …. Source article  : Female workers sue banking firm Goldman Sachs over sex discrimination.

40pc of women who cheat tell at least one friend about it: UK study

LONDON – A new UK study has found that women are more likely to gossip about an affair they have had than men would, with 43 percent of them admitting they have told at least one friend about it.

The new research, carried out by dating website IllicitEncounters.com, also found that 15 percent of women tell …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pakistan to be consulted over Afghan-Taliban reconciliation process: Karzai

ISLAMABAD – Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai has reassured Pakistan of its involvement in the Afghan reconciliation process with the Taliban and other Afghan warring factions.

Karzai told Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani that Kabul would enter into consultations with Islamabad over the reconciliation process, the Dawn reports.

The message was common in his interaction …. Original article  : Pakistan to be consulted over Afghan-Taliban reconciliation process: Karzai.

Trapped Chilean miners could be freed by November

LONDON – The 33 Chilean miners trapped nearly half a mile underground could be freed within two months, rescue workers have said.

The trapped men were previously warned they were unlikely to see daylight before Christmas, but chief engineer Rene Aguilar has outlined a more optimistic timescale, saying a rescue hole should reach them by the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Trapped Chilean miners could be freed by November.

10 to be held accountable for Philippines bus hijack

MANILA – At least ten civilian and police officials will be held accountable for mishandling a bus hijacking that left eight Hong Kong tourists dead here last month.

Last week, Philippines Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said police might have shot some of the hostages during their much-criticized rescue bid.

However, at a press conference on Thursday, … Original source on Gaea Times at : 10 to be held accountable for Philippines bus hijack.

One killed, five injured in clashes in Kashmir

Budgam (J-K), Sep 17 (ANI): At least one person was killed and five others injured when security forces allegedly opened fire to quell stone-pelting mobs in Jammu and Kashmir’s Budgam District on Friday.

The protests came even as curfew remained in force across the Kashmir Valley for the fifth successive day.

Five persons were …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chennai-based Wife of Indian lawyer millionaire missing in Malaysia claims she’s broke

KUALA LANGAT – The wife of missing multi-millionaire A. Muthuraja, who had allegedly met the lawyer brothers implicated in the Sosilawati case early this year, claims that only Rs.1, 000 is left in his previously huge account after he came to Banting to meet the two men.

“I don’t know where his money went, but I …. Source  : Chennai-based Wife of Indian lawyer millionaire missing in Malaysia claims she’s broke.

Many Malay Tamil schools in estates facing closure

KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Tamil Council has claimed that about 100 partially-aided Bantuan Modal Tamil schools, which are located on estates, are facing possible closure because of poor enrolment.

Malaysian Tamil Council managing director S. Sivasubramaniam said that apart from poor enrolment, another reason for the expected closure of these schools was that many estate …. Source  : Many Malay Tamil schools in estates facing closure.

Sri Lanka says accidental blast in east kills at least 20 people, including 2 Chinese

Sri Lanka: Accidental blast kills more than 20

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – An accidental blast of explosives intended for road construction by a Chinese firm in eastern Sri Lanka has killed at least 20 people, including two Chinese nationals, the Sri Lankan government said Friday.
A container carrying the materials exploded near a police station in the … Read more >>.

Chechen separatist detained in Poland, according to reports in Russia

Reports: Chechen separatist detained in Poland

MOSCOW – Russian TV and news agencies are reporting that a Chechen separatist wanted in Russia has been detained by police in Poland.
Senior Russian lawmaker Konstantin Kosachev says Moscow expects Poland to extradite Akhmed Zakayev from Warsaw, where he was attending a Chechen conference, according to a ITAR-Tass news agency … Original source on Gaea Times at : Chechen separatist detained in Poland, according to reports in Russia.

Israeli military says soldiers kill wanted Hamas member in West Bank arrest raid

Israeli military says troops kill wanted Hamas man

JERUSALEM – The Israeli military says troops have killed a wanted Hamas member in a West Bank raid.
The military says soldiers were trying to arrest Iyad Abu Shilbaya early Friday in the town of Tulkarem when he ran at them, ignoring orders to halt. The military says troops … Read more »».

The Jammu and Kashmir situation: The Azadi Debate (Part I)

NEW DELHI – In the debate on Kashmir, in the slogans being shouted by protestors in the Kashmir Valley, the most common refrain is that of Azadi.

Despite this, there is little clarity about what does Azadi actually mean. Where does the motivation for Azadi come from? Is Azadi the proverbial opium that has … Read this article on Gaea Times at : The Jammu and Kashmir situation: The Azadi Debate (Part I).

Rachida Dati’s ‘plan to oust Carla Bruni-Sarkozy from Elysee Palace’

LONDON – An official biography has claimed that Rachida Dati, a rival and former justice minister, targeted French First Lady Carla Bruni-Sarkozy to oust her from the Elys???e Palace to bring back President Nicolas Sarkozy’s second wife.

The book says that Bruni-Sarkozy received a police and security services file in March – including phone call …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Rachida Dati’s ‘plan to oust Carla Bruni-Sarkozy from Elysee Palace’.

Obama to announce Wall Street critic Elizabeth Warren for powerful new consumer post

Obama to name consumer advocate to new post
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama on Friday plans to announce Wall Street critic Elizabeth Warren as a special adviser overseeing the creation of a new consumer protection agency.
Warren will report to both the president and Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner (GYT’-nur). She’ll have the job of starting … Original article on : Obama to announce Wall Street critic Elizabeth Warren for powerful new consumer post.

Obama to announce Wall Street critic Elizabeth Warren for powerful new consumer post Friday

Obama to name consumer advocate to new post Friday
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama on Friday plans to announce Wall Street critic Elizabeth Warren as a special adviser overseeing the creation of a new consumer protection agency.
Warren will report to both the president and Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner (GYT’-nur). She’ll have the job of … Original article on : Obama to announce Wall Street critic Elizabeth Warren for powerful new consumer post Friday.

Political leadership to decide on revoking AFSPA: Army chief

CHENNAI – Indian Army Chief, General V.K. Singh, Saturday said the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), which gives the army legal immunity for their actions, is only an enabling law and not an arbitrary one and the political leadership will decide on whether to revoke it in Kashmir.

Speaking to reporters here after witnessing …. Source  : Political leadership to decide on revoking AFSPA: Army chief.

Maoists set to build a new political mainstream in Nepal: Prachanda

KATHMANDU – UCPN (Maoist) Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal alias ‘Prachanda’ has said that Maoists are in process of building a new political mainstream for the country.

Nepalnews quoted Prachanda as, saying that we are in process of building a new political mainstream for the country, not to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Curfew relaxed for four hours in parts of Srinagar

SRINAGAR – Curfew was relaxed for four hours in southern and eastern parts of Srinagar on Saturday.

The curfew was relaxed in South and East zones of the city from 12 noon to 4 pm, a police spokesman said.

” Curfew will be relaxed in other parts of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Curfew relaxed for four hours in parts of Srinagar.

Afghan villagers attack Oz troops in Uruzgan province for alleged Koran burning rumor

KABUL – Relations between Australian troops and villagers in Mirwais in the Chora Valley of Afghanistan Uruzgan Province have soured after a violent protest that was sparked off by a rumour that diggers were burning copies of the Koran.

The soldiers were conducting a regular burn off of rubbish …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Afghan villagers attack Oz troops in Uruzgan province for alleged Koran burning rumor.

No ‘evidence’ that Pakistan govt is ‘drowning’: Holbrooke

ISLAMABAD – Ruling out the possibility of Pakistan government’s immediate fall, the United States has said that there is no proof to substantiate speculation that the PPP-led coalition government was on its way out.

“I don’t see evidence that the government is drowning,” the Dawn quoted …. Original article  : No ‘evidence’ that Pakistan govt is ‘drowning’: Holbrooke.

Pollution levels in Delhi will come down with hybrid buses: Dikshit

NEW DELHI – Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit has expressed confidence that pollution levels in the national capital will come down further with the introduction of hybrid buses.

Speaking at a function to inaugurate the city’s largest bus transport depot …. Original article  : Pollution levels in Delhi will come down with hybrid buses: Dikshit.

Six in ten Americans still think its wrong to build mosque near Ground Zero

WASHINGTON – A majority of Americans, about six in ten (61 percent), still think that it is a bad idea to build the proposed mosque and Islamic Cultural Center near the World Trade Center site in New York City, down slightly from the 64 percent who felt that way in August, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Six in ten Americans still think its wrong to build mosque near Ground Zero.

Rudd promises Clinton a “really good time” during her Oz trip in Nov

CANBERRA – Australia’s Foreign Minister, Kevin Rudd, who is on a week-long visit to Washington, lightened the mood of everyone present at a news conference by promising U.S. Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, that she would have “a really good time” … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rudd promises Clinton a “really good time” during her Oz trip in Nov.

AFSPA an enabling provision, says Army Chief

CHENNAI – Army Chief General V K Singh on Saturday said that the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) should be seen as an “enabling provision” and not as an “arbitrary” injunction.

Talking to reporters here, General Singh said: “I … Read more >>.

Scotland Yard probing Taliban role in MQM leader’s assassination in London

LONDON – The Taliban may have ordered the brutal murder of Dr. Imran Farooq, the exiled Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM), outside his home in London.

According to the Daily Mail, this theory has emerged as Scotland Yard’ s Counter Terrorism Command took charge … Read more : Scotland Yard probing Taliban role in MQM leader’s assassination in London.

Troops fire on funeral procession in Indian-controlled Kashmir, killing 1, wounding 12

Troops fire on Indian Kashmir funeral, killing 1

SRINAGAR, India – Government forces opened fire on a funeral procession in curfew-bound Indian-controlled Kashmir on Saturday, killing one civilian and wounding at least 12 others, police and local residents said.
Thousands of people in Anantnag, a town south of the main city of Srinagar, defied the curfew to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Troops fire on funeral procession in Indian-controlled Kashmir, killing 1, wounding 12.

Book author defends sources over Michelle Obama ‘hell’ comment

LONDON – The co-author of Carla Bruni-Sarkozy’s new book has safeguarded his sources over a passage that tells America’s First Lady Michelle Obama called White House life as “hell”.

Obama’s spokeswoman denied the First Lady said such a thing, and a spokesman at … Original article on : Book author defends sources over Michelle Obama ‘hell’ comment.

Tony and Cherie Blair’s sex secrets set to be revealed?

LONDON – Carole Caplin, who once turned down the offer of 1 million pounds for the story of her ten years as lifestyle guru to Tony and Cherie Blair, might rethink her decision due to the failure of her gym. …. Original article  : Tony and Cherie Blair’s sex secrets set to be revealed?.

US won’t stand “slackness” by Pak Army in “war on terror”: Holbrooke

ISLAMABAD – US special envoy for Pakistan and Afghanistan Richard Holbrooke has said that his country would not accept any “slackness” on the part of the Pakistan Army in the war against the Taliban, due to their engagement in the ongoing flood relief efforts.

“Neither the security …. Original article  : US won’t stand “slackness” by Pak Army in “war on terror”: Holbrooke.

The Jammu and Kashmir situation: The Azadi debate – Part II

NEW DELHI – The Pandits of the Kashmir Valley, currently in exile, the Dogras and Muslims of Jammu, the Buddhists of Ladhakh, the Shias and Gujjars in different parts of the state have never been part of any Azadi movement, let alone … Read more »».

Nawaz says it’s right time to resolve Kashmir issue, urges other nations to chip in

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) chief Nawaz Sharif, declaring that the time to resolve the Kashmir imbroglio in accordance with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people had arrived, has urged the international community to chip in to solve the crisis.

He said the world … Original article on : Nawaz says it’s right time to resolve Kashmir issue, urges other nations to chip in.

Broke Octomom ‘ready to go on welfare’

WASHINGTON – Octomom Nyda Suleman is ready to go on welfare to raise her 14 children, as she is now almost completely broke.

“She’s going on welfare and it’s going to be very soon,” Fox News quoted an insider as telling RadarOnline.com.

“There’s just no choice. She’s running out of money and those kids … Read more >>>.

Sarah Palin to appear at ‘Dancing with the Stars’ for daughter

WASHINGTON – Rumours are abuzz that Sarah Palin will be in the audience for the season premiere of ‘Dancing With The Stars’ on Sept. 20 to show her support for her 19-year-old daughter Bristol Palin.

Security has been “beefed up” for Sarah’s appearance, reports TMZ.com.

And … Read more »»».

Victoria police launch operation to reduce crime against foreign, Indian students

MELBOURNE – Three people have been arrested in Melbourne during a state-wide operation to reduce anti-social behaviour and crimes against international students. The move may come as a bit of a relief to Indian students in Australia, especially after facing racially motivated …. Original source  : Victoria police launch operation to reduce crime against foreign, Indian students.

Hanif Kureishi awarded Pinter literary prize

LONDON – Renowned novelist Hanif Qureshi has bagged a literary prize set up in honour of playwright Harold Pinter.

The ‘Buddha of Suburbia’ author won the Pen/Pinter prize as he courageously speaks the truth about life in our multicultural world and will receive a cash reward of …. Source article  : Hanif Kureishi awarded Pinter literary prize.

Curfew reimposed in Kashmir Valley

SRINAGAR – Despite the separatists’ decision not to observe protests and strikes on Sunday, curfew has been reimposed in all major towns of the Kashmir Valley as a precautionary measure.

There are reports that all major towns of the Valley have been put under curfew barring Baramulla.

Earlier on Saturday, curfew was relaxed for four hours in … Read : Curfew reimposed in Kashmir Valley.

Indian teacher Ramalakshmi claims to be missing entrepreneur Muthuraja’s wife

KUALA LUMPUR – The case of missing Malay Indian multi-millionaire A. Muthuraja has taken an interesting turn with a 36-year-old Indian school teacher claiming that she is his lawfully-wedded wife.

“Muthuraja and I married in 2001 in a grand ceremony in Chennai which was attended by many dignitaries and politicians,” The Star quoted Ramalakshmi from Tirunelveli …. Read the original article  : Indian teacher Ramalakshmi claims to be missing entrepreneur Muthuraja’s wife.

Miscreants set church on fire in Pakistan

KARACHI – Some miscreants in Shah Latif Town of Pakistan allegedly set a church on fire, fuelling a wave of anger and tension among Christians residing in that area.

According to police, Priest Peter Shahzad filed an FIR, complaining that some unidentified persons entered the church located near Chowkandi Graveyard, Sector 19-B in the Shah Latif …. Source  : Miscreants set church on fire in Pakistan.

Now, ‘Stasi spies’ spreading fear on UK motorways

LONDON – Motorists in the UK have of late expressed fear and discomfort over reports of police asking other motorists to spy on each other for incidents of poor driving.

Alarm is being expressed about the possibility of a ‘Big Brother’ state being created within the country. Critics have likened the scheme to the East German … Original article on : Now, ‘Stasi spies’ spreading fear on UK motorways.

Majority of Malaysian youth say no to pre-marital sex

KUALA LUMPUR – Parents can now take a breather, as nearly half of the Malaysian youth are in no hurry to have sex and are ready to wait until marriage.

The online survey “Let’s Talk Sex” with YouthSays and Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (Utar) questioned 2,795 young people aged 15 to 25 throughout the country.

About 46.5 … Read more : Majority of Malaysian youth say no to pre-marital sex.

J K Rowling’s handwritten Potter pages to be displayed at book festival

LONDON – The handwritten pages by Harry Potter author J K Rowling will go on display at a book festival in Wigtown famously known as Scotland’s National book town.

The original, signed manuscripts, written as part of ‘Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,’ would be shown during the Wigtown Book Festival.

The Ballard of Nearly Headless … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : J K Rowling’s handwritten Potter pages to be displayed at book festival.

Pakistan seeks repatriation of terror suspect Aafia

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Interior Minister Rehman Malik has sent a letter to the US Attorney general’s office requesting repatriation of Dr Aafia Siddiqui, who is currently under detention in America for her alleged links with Al Qaeda.

Malik said that as the Aafia case had become a matter of great public concern, her repatriation would help …. Original source  : Pakistan seeks repatriation of terror suspect Aafia.

Missing Indian entrepreneur Muthuraja’s family believes he is still alive

KUALA LUMPUR – Family members of missing Indian multi-millionaire A. Muthuraja believe he is still alive and is being kept in captivity by some unscrupulous people.

Muthuraja father E. Allal Kathan said his son was close to two Banting-based lawyer brothers who have been arrested for the murder of cosmetics queen Sosilawati Lawiya, but added that …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Missing Indian entrepreneur Muthuraja’s family believes he is still alive.

Two foreign tourists injured in firing near Jama Masjid

NEW DELHI – Two foreign tourists were reportedly injured in firing near the historic Jama Masjid in the walled city area on Sunday morning.

Both tourists were injured near Gate Number 3 of the mosque. They are residents of Taiwan. One was injured in his leg, while the other in his stomach.

Initial reports said two men … Read more »».

Prince Charles ’slams loony remarks’

LONDON – Prince Charles might eavesdrop on his visitors, and he might even be the kind who talks to trees and treats plants like his children but doesn’t take too kindly to being called a loony.

“I got a lot of flack for a lot of things. I mean, bewildered, frankly, as though you were doing … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Prince Charles ’slams loony remarks’.

Prince Harry ‘accepts Chelsy Davy romance is over’

LONDON – Britain’s Prince Harry has apparently ended his fight to win back Chelsy Davy.

According to sources, the young royal has reluctantly accepted his five-year romance is over and has decided to focus on his military career.

“Harry is a realist. They will always be friends,” News of the World quoted a source as … Read : Prince Harry ‘accepts Chelsy Davy romance is over’.

‘Pornification’ of teen girls on the rise

MELBOURNE – Experts have warned that there has been an alarming rise in ‘pornification’ of teenage girls.

Teenagers as young as 14 are getting Brazilian waxes – just one of the many intimate beauty treatments that are becoming popular with girls as boyfriends demand they look like porn stars, the experts say.

“Their boyfriends are putting pressure …. Original source  : ‘Pornification’ of teen girls on the rise.

Has TV adventurer discovered Franklin’s lost Arctic expedition?

LONDON – TV adventurer Bear Grylls may have solved a long standing puzzle – Admiral Sir John Franklin’s legendary but failed 1845 expedition to find the North-west Passage – when he stumbled across human bones, the remains of fires and whalebone tools on a remote Canadian island.

Grylls and his crew claim to have found human … Read : Has TV adventurer discovered Franklin’s lost Arctic expedition?.

US soldiers accused of killing Afghan civilians for sport

WASHINGTON – Soldiers of an American platoon based in near the village of La Mohammad Kalay in Afghanistan’s Zabol area, have been accused of killing Afghan civilians for sport.

According to the Washington Post, Army charging documents say rogue members of a platoon from the 5th Stryker Combat Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, floated the idea of … Original source on Gaea Times at : US soldiers accused of killing Afghan civilians for sport.

Pakistan faces major hunger crisis: NGO

ISLAMABAD – The world’s leading independent NGO for kids – Save the Children- has warned that Pakistan faces a major hunger crisis, as the number of acutely malnourished children is set to rise steeply in the wake of unprecedented floods in that country.

“The number of malnourished and critically sick children will rise dramatically in … Original article on : Pakistan faces major hunger crisis: NGO.

UN, NATO praise Afghan voters for turning out despite Taliban’s threats

KABUL – The United Nations and NATO have praised voters for turning out for Saturday’s parliamentary elections in Afghanistan, despite a Taliban threat not to vote in the name of “jihad”.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said Afghan voters had shown “courage and determination.”

NATO forces chief Gen David Petraeus also praised the voters, saying the voice … Read : UN, NATO praise Afghan voters for turning out despite Taliban’s threats.

Security forces stages flag march ahead of Sept. 24 Ayodhya verdict3

Mathura, Sep 19 (ANI): Security forces staged a flag march in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura city on Saturday ahead of the long-awaited verdict into the disputed Babri Masjid demolition case.

It has been reported that considering the sensitivity of the issue, the state administration has heightened the security of the nearby towns having high percentage of Hindu …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Security forces stages flag march ahead of Sept. 24 Ayodhya verdict3.

Malaysia to launch programmes help Indian community entrepreneurs

KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry plans to launch several programmes to help Malay Indian entrepreneurs and small businessmen.

“We have charted out several programmes, which would be held in various states, to benefit the Indian business community,” The Star quoted Malaysian Indian Chamber of commerce and Industry President K.K. …. Original article  : Malaysia to launch programmes help Indian community entrepreneurs.

Suspected militant arrested in Manipur

IMPHAL – Manipur Police have arrested a suspected militant of the Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF), who was allegedly involved in the recent killing of migrant labourers in the state.

The militant N. Naoba was snared during a combing operation in Singjamei Naorem leikai area of Imphal on Friday.

Imphal Police had earlier arrested self-styled second lieutenant Phanjoubam …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Suspected militant arrested in Manipur.

Limbless Frenchman completes English Channel swim

LONDON – A Frenchman, who lost all his limbs in an electrical accident, has successfully completed his attempt to swim the English Channel.

Philippe Croizon, who swims using prosthetic legs, finished the 34 km challenge in more than 14 hours, reports the BBC.

Sixteen years ago, Croizon suffered a severe electric shock while removing a television aerial … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Limbless Frenchman completes English Channel swim.

Karzai’s cousin accuses of vote-rigging, fraud in parliamentary elections

KABUL – Afghan President Hamid Karzai’s cousin, who was seeking re-election as an MP in Kabul, has accused the election officials of “illegally” blocking his observers from watching the counting process, with an intention to rig the result against him.

“I got a call from my observer saying the election staff had closed the school gate … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Karzai’s cousin accuses of vote-rigging, fraud in parliamentary elections.

1200 yr old empress’ coffin suggests deep cultural exchange on Silk Road

NEW DELHI – With the discovery of a 1,200 years old empress’s coffin, Chinese archaeologists have apparently found new evidence suggesting international cultural exchange on the ancient Silk Road.

Four European-looking warriors and lion-like beasts have been found engraved on an empress’ 1,200-year-old stone coffin that was unearthed in Shaanxi Province, in northwestern China, reports People’s … Read more »».

Iran court jails rights activist for ‘waging war against God’

LONDON – An Iranian court has jailed a prominent human rights activist and journalist for six years after convicting her of “waging war against God” and other charges.

According to The Guardian, Shiva Nazar Ahari, 26, was convicted of the crime known as “moharebeh” …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Train accident: Mamata Banerjee announces Rs five lakh ex-gratia for kin of dead

NEW DELHI – Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee announced an ex-gratia of Rs. five lakh each to the families of those killed in a railway accident in Madhya Pradesh on Monday.

In a statement issued here, Banerjee also said that each of the grievously injured passenger would get … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Train accident: Mamata Banerjee announces Rs five lakh ex-gratia for kin of dead.

India is a safe destination, says Tourism Minister Selja

NEW DELHI – Condemning the firing incident at Delhi’s Jama Masjid on Sunday in which two foreign tourists were injured, Union Tourism Minister Kumari Selja today appealed to tourists not to panic by such stray incidents as India is a safe destination.

“India is a safe destination and … Read more »».

Musharraf urges all stakeholders for political resolution of Kashmir dispute

ISLAMABAD – Former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf has urged all stakeholders to find a political solution for the resolution of the Kashmir dispute.

“The political forces should step forward to resolve the Kashmir dispute,” The Daily Times quoted Musharraf, as saying.

Musharraf also said that the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Musharraf urges all stakeholders for political resolution of Kashmir dispute.

Tea Party star O’Donnell quips she ‘dabbled with witchcraft’ in high school

WASHINGTON – Republican Senate candidate Christine O’Donnell has joked about the comments she made more than a decade ago about having dabbled in witchcraft when she was in high school.

“How many of you didn’t hang out with questionable folks in high school?” …. Read the original article  : here.

Briton arrested at Amsterdam airport on suspicion of involvement in terrorism

WASHINGTON – A British man, who is of Somali decent, has been arrested at Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport on suspicion of involvement in terrorism.

According to The Telegraph, the man was travelling from John Lennon Airport in Liverpool, via Schiphol, to Entebbe in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Briton arrested at Amsterdam airport on suspicion of involvement in terrorism.

The Jammu and Kashmir situation: All Party Delegation – Part II

NEW DELHI – A few pointers that the APPD could do well to remember.

First, the delegation will have to convince the people that they are there to make a departure from the hallmark of Indian statecraft, which is to pretend to talk when pushed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : The Jammu and Kashmir situation: All Party Delegation – Part II.

Radcliffe seeing grief and loss shrink to relive trauma of his latest character

LONDON – Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe is said to be taking his latest role very seriously.

Radcliffe, 21, has been seeing a psychologist specialising in grief and loss as he researches for his role in 3D gothic thriller ‘The Woman In …. Original article  : Radcliffe seeing grief and loss shrink to relive trauma of his latest character.

Wig designer breaks fashion’s last taboo with naked models on catwalk

LONDON – A wig designer has broken fashion’s last taboo after he sent models walking nude down the catwalk in just hot pink high-heeled boots, hats, bags, and wigs.

Charlie Le Mindu, 24, whose creations are worn by singer Lady Gaga, caused quite a stir at London Fashion Week, and … Read more : Wig designer breaks fashion’s last taboo with naked models on catwalk.

Pune woman sets record by ‘flying like a bird’ over Spain

PUNE – Pune sportswoman Shital V. Mahajan-Rane ‘flew’ like a bird over Spain and successfully created a new Indian record of jumping from an aircraft at 13,000 feet, an aide said here Monday.

Attired in a costume known as ‘wing suit or a birdman-suit’ with attached wings, she jumped from the aircraft late Sunday and soared …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pune woman sets record by ‘flying like a bird’ over Spain.

Oz Muslims condemn moves to ban burka in country

SYDNEY – Hundreds of Muslim women rallied in Lakemba to oppose moves to ban the burka in Australia and claimed that Islamic values are superior to “flawed” Western secular values.

Fautmeh Ardati, a member of the Islamic group Hizb ut-Tahrir, condemned non-Muslims for lecturing Muslims about … Original article on : Oz Muslims condemn moves to ban burka in country.

Kashmir crisis: 39-member all-party delegation arrives in Srinagar for review, talks

SRINAGAR – A 39-member all-party delegation arrived in Srinagar on Monday morning on a two-day visit, during which they are expected to review the situation prevailing in the tense and strive-torn Kashmir Valley and meet with a cross-section of Kashmiri leaders, including separatist representatives.

Led by Union Home [..] Read the original article: here.

Delhi CM Dikshit visits Jama Masjid shootout injured in LNJP Hopital

NEW DELHI – Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit paid a visit to the Lok Nayak Jayaprakash (LNJP) Hospital on Monday morning to inquire about the health and welfare of two Taiwanese tourists who had been shot at and injured near …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

BP Gulf of Mexico oil spill well now “effectively dead”

LONDON – British Petroleum (BP) has finally capped the leaking well that has spewed millions of barrels of oil into the Gulf of Mexico.

According to the BBC, a pressure test showed a cement plug put in place by BP to permanently “kill” the well was holding.

The April 20 explosion on the Deepwater Horizon …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : BP Gulf of Mexico oil spill well now “effectively dead”.

Five militants killed in US drone strike in North Waziristan

PESHAWAR – At least five militants were killed in a US drone attack in the tribal belt of North Waziristan in Pakistan.

According to The Daily Times, three missiles were fired at a house in Dattakhel, a town controlled by terrorists who regularly … Original article on : Five militants killed in US drone strike in North Waziristan.

Nefertiti’s bust reveals she wasn’t the beauty as believed

LONDON – A scan of ancient beauty Nefertiti’s bust, one of the world’s most famous objects, has revealed that the Egyptian queen actually had a bent nose and even had wrinkles around her eyes.

The researchers have discovered that the bust, one of the world’s most famous … Read more : Nefertiti’s bust reveals she wasn’t the beauty as believed.

13 killed, 40 injured as trains collide in Madhya Pradesh

SHIVPURI – At least thirteen people were killed and over 40 others injured when the Indore-Gwalior Intercity Express collided with a freight train at the Bhadarwas railway station in Madhya Pradesh’s Shivpuri District today.

The incident occurred when a speeding goods train rammed [..] Read the original article: here.

Election Commission to review Bihar poll preparations

PATNA – The full Election Commission headed by Chief Election Commissioner S. Y. Quraishi will hold discussions with representative of different political parties today to review preparations for the Bihar Assembly polls.

During the two-day visit, Quraishi along with the two …. Original article  : Election Commission to review Bihar poll preparations.

Leonard Skinner Dies At 77

JACKSONVILLE (GaeaTimes.com)- Leonard Skinner, the legendary gym teacher and basketball coach of Robert E. Lee High School who worked as an inspiration for rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd breathed his last on Monday. The basketball coach who became popular due to his association with the band was suffering from Alzheimer’s disease for some time …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Leonard Skinner Dies At 77.

Tremor-hit NZ brewery to debut exclusive earthquake beers

WELLINGTON – ‘Never to shake your beer’ might have been the norm among boozers, but two Christchurch microbreweries are hoping to turn disaster to their advantage with the release of “earthquake ales”, which were accidentally made after a heavy tremor.

It was when Three Boys Brewery owner Ralph Bungard was brewing his first batch of golden …. Original article  : Tremor-hit NZ brewery to debut exclusive earthquake beers.

Wis. governor, once a prosecutor, says he’s troubled by district attorney who ’sexted’ victim

Wis. governor says he’s troubled by ’sexting’ DA

MADISON, Wis. – Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle made a long political career as a no-nonsense prosecutor standing up for victims.
Now, the lame-duck governor now must deal with what to do about a district attorney who sent racy text message to a domestic abuse victim.
An outraged Doyle said Monday … Read more »»».

13-hour labour fails to keep mom away from tweeting!

London, Sep 21 (ANI): A pregnant British mother could not stop herself from tweeting while undergoing natural childbirth.

Fi StarStone, who runs a child-care advice website, posted constant updates during the 13-hour labour.

Her decision to tweet about her labour was to “dispel some of the myths … Read : 13-hour labour fails to keep mom away from tweeting!.

Battered minorities launch campaign outside UN headquarters against atrocities in Pakistan

GENEVA – The European Organization for Pakistani Minorities (EOPM) has launched a three-week long hunger strike with a poster campaign outside the United Nations headquarters in Geneva during the 15th Session of the Human Rights Council which commenced on 13th Sep.

According to a press release, EOPM, during … Read more »»».

Teacher at Obama daughters’ school placed on probation for fondling pupil

NEW YORK – A teacher in a school where US President Barack Obama’s two daughters are enrolled has apparently been placed on five-year probation for fondling with a 15-year-old male student.

According to the Washington Post, Robert A. “Pete” Peterson was fired from the Sidwell Friends … Read more »»».

E-mail threatening Delhi attacks traced to Mumbai’s Borivali area

MUMBAI – The email purportedly sent by outlawed Indian Mujahideen owning up the attacks outside Jama Masjid and threatening more strikes ahead of Commonwealth Games has been traced to Borivali area of Mumbai.

According to sources, the mail was sent using a … Read more »»».

Broke Octomom refuses $500K porn offer

WASHINGTON – Octomom Nadya Suleman, who is in financial crisis and desperately needs money to maintain her 14 kids, has refused an offer to do porn.

Following an offer of a whopping 500,000 dollars from Vivid Entertainment, Suleman released a video statement mentioning that she’ll … Read : Broke Octomom refuses $500K porn offer.

Kim Jong-il likely to announce youngest son as political heir on September 28

LONDON – North Korea’s ruling Worker’s Party (WPK) would reportedly hold its first conference in 30 years in Pyongyang on September 28, where its leader Kim Jong-il is expected to name his youngest son Kim Jong-un as his successor.

“The conference …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kim Jong-il likely to announce youngest son as political heir on September 28.

Sadat’s daughter goes to court to defend father over allegations he poisoned Nasser

LONDON – The daughter of the former Egyptian president Anwar Sadat is going to court to defend her late father against allegations that he murdered his predecessor Gamal Abdel Nasser, the founding father of the modern Egyptian republic.

Former Egyptian president Sadat has been accused by his former aide of poisoning the coffee of his …. Read the original article  : here.

Sushma Swaraj says visit to Jammu and Kashmir successful

SRINAGAR – Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Sushma Swaraj has said the decision to meet the separatist was not a collective decision of the all party delegation to Jammu and Kashmir.

Talking to reporters during her visit to the Hazratbal Shrine along with other party delegates, Swaraj said that it was not in the … Read more >>.

Art historian claims denim jeans originated in Italy, not France

LONDON – The discovery of paintings by a forgotten 17th century painter has led to an art historian claiming that denim jeans originated in Italy nearly 400 years ago and not in France.

Jeans are believed to have originated either in Nimes in France, “de Nimes” gives us the word … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Art historian claims denim jeans originated in Italy, not France.

New insight into Indian origin woman Neelma Singh’s murder in Brisbane

BRISBANE – The probe into the death of an Indian origin woman, Neelma Singh and her siblings has taken a new turn after the Brisbane Magistrates Court heard that an acrimonious message was sent by Singh to a man the night before they were killed in … Read : New insight into Indian origin woman Neelma Singh’s murder in Brisbane.

Alina Kabaeva Hooks Russian PM?

MOSCOW, RUSSIA(GaeaTimes.com)- In a sensational development Vladimir Putin the Prime minister of Russia has reportedly split ways with his wife Ludmilla and he is all set to get married to Alina Kabaeva, a pretty 24-year-old gymnast. The news has surfaced and a Moscow based newspaper has reported that the split with his wife … Read more >>.

‘Exposure to unnecessary risks killing Afghan troops’

SYDNEY – An email by an unnamed soldier posted in Afghanistan, leaked to the press Tuesday, said troops in Afghanistan were exposed to unnecessary risks and were dying because of that.

The email by the unknown soldier says his mate Lance Corporal Jared MacKinney would still be alive if troops had been given adequate fire support …. Original source  : ‘Exposure to unnecessary risks killing Afghan troops’.

Draft state audit says scandal-plagued Calif. city paid off $95,000 in city manager’s loans

Calif. city paid off $95,000 in city manager loans

BELL, Calif. – A newspaper report says the blue-collar suburb of Bell used $95,000 in public funds to pay off loans its then-city manager made to himself.
A draft state audit obtained by the Los Angeles Times on Monday says that the small city south of Los Angeles … Read : Draft state audit says scandal-plagued Calif. city paid off $95,000 in city manager’s loans.

Maoists kill four men in Chhattisgarh

RAJNANDGAON/ RAIPUR/ DURG – Maoists killed a village head and three police personnel at various places in Chhattisgarh.

The Maoists killed Kondu Ram, the village headman of Madanwada village under Manpur Police Station in Rajnandgaon District.

The Maoists had kidnapped him on Friday. His dead body … Read : Maoists kill four men in Chhattisgarh.

Specially-abled people ask for peace after Babri mosque verdict

VARANASI – Ahead of the judgment in the 1992 Babri Mosque demolition case, specially-abled citizens of Varanasi have requested to the society to maintain peace and communal amity.

A special bench of the Allahabad High Court in Lucknow is expected to deliver its judgment on September 24 …. Original article  : Specially-abled people ask for peace after Babri mosque verdict.

Indian Navy’s three fast attack crafts welcomed at Kochi port

KOCHI – The Indian Navy’s three fast attack crafts received a warm ceremonial welcome on Kochi port on Monday.

These ships will be deployed at base ports in Kochi and Goa. This move is an effort to strengthen the coastal security and surveillance by Indian Navy … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Indian Navy’s three fast attack crafts welcomed at Kochi port.

Water level continues to rise in dams in Uttarakhand

NEW DELHI – Rising water levels in the Tehri dam continue to put the states of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh at risk.

Over 60 people have died in cloudbursts and landslides triggered by heavy rains in Almora and Naintial since Saturday.

Earlier, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal went on … Read more : Water level continues to rise in dams in Uttarakhand.

How MI6 became one of the most respected spy agencies

LONDON – MI6 has launched a new book about its official history, ‘History Of The Secret Intelligence Service (1909-1949)’.

The Secret Intelligence Service could have gone further, but the historian delving into the archives was only allowed to search up to 1949.

Serving officers believe that details on …. Source  : How MI6 became one of the most respected spy agencies.

Ceiling of CWG weightlifting venue collapses

DELHI – Part of the ceiling of the weightlifting venue at the Jawaharlal Nehru (JLN) Stadium collapsed on Wednesday.

According to TV reports, no one is injured in the incident

On Tuesday an under-construction foot overbridge collapsed outside the …. Read the original article  : here.

Metro rail is an effective system of transport: President Patil

KOLKATA – President Pratibha Patil on Wednesday said in a city, the metro rail is an effective system of transport, giving people a convenient, comfortable and an affordable mode of travel.

Speaking after laying [..] Read the original article: here.

Mushrooming extremist websites emerging biggest global terror threat: Interpol Chief

LONDON – Interpol Chief Ronald Noble has warned that the rising number of extremist websites have made the recruitment process much easier for the al-Qaeda, which according to him, is difficult to manage as another site pops up as soon as one is knocked out.

“The … Read more >>>.

Chirac could face 10-yr prison term if convicted for embezzlement

PARIS – Jacques Chirac, the former French President, would reportedly stand trial over embezzlement charges in a Paris court early next year.

Chirac, who would be the first modern French leader to appear in the dock, is accused of paying salaries out of public money to 21 of his …. Source article  : Chirac could face 10-yr prison term if convicted for embezzlement.

Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, world’s second largest after Bollywood!

LONDON – The Nigerian film industry, dubbed Nollywood, has now become the second largest in the world.

According to a UNESCO report last year, Nollywood makes about 2,400 films per year, putting it ahead of the US, but behind India.

A new … Read more >>>.

Clarification: ‘America’s Got Talent’ story

Clarification: ‘America’s Got Talent’ story

LOS ANGELES – The Associated Press reported Sept. 14 that “America’s Got Talent” contestant Michael Grimm performed Michael Bolton’s “When a Man Loves a Woman.” Although Bolton released four different albums containing the song between 1991 and 2005, “When a Man Loves a Woman” was originally written and recorded by Percy … Read more : Clarification: ‘America’s Got Talent’ story.

103 deaths in 104 days as curfew continues in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – As curfew continued across the Kashmir Valley Wednesday, one more youth injured in clashes with security forces died in the hospital, taking the deaths in the unrest in the valley to 103 since June 11.

“Sajad Ahmad Pandit, who was injured in clashes in Sheikhpora area of Badgam district on Sep 13, succumbed … Original article on : 103 deaths in 104 days as curfew continues in Kashmir.

Woodward book details Obama battles with advisers over Afghan exit plan

WASHINGTON – A new book by well known journalist Bob Woodward has revealed that President Barack Obama repeatedly pressed his top military advisers to give him an exit plan for Afghanistan, but failed to get it.

According to secret meeting notes and documents that have found a mention in the book titled “Obama’s Wars”, Obama grew … Read more >>.

Commonwealth Games official says chief heads to Delhi for emergency visit to address problems

Commonwealth Games chief rushing to New Delhi

NEW DELHI – A top Commonwealth Games officials says the games’ chief is rushing to New Delhi on an emergency visit amid widespread anger over India’s frenzied last-minute preparations for next month’s international sports event.
Commonwealth Games Federation chief executive Mike Hooper told The Associated Press that the federation’s president, … Read more >>.

Yeddyurappa ministry expanded in Karnataka

BANGALORE – Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa on Wednesday expanded his ministry by inducting six more ministers, raising the strength to 34.

A Narayanaswamy, C H Vijayashankar, C C Patil, Shobha Karandlaje, V Somanna and S A Ramdas took oath as ministers of cabinet rank at a brief function held here at Raj Bhavan.

Governor … Read more »».

Mixed-use neighbourhoods can reduce crime

WASHINGTON – A new study suggests mixed-use neighbourhoods that combine residential and business development may help reduce some types of violent crime.

According to researchers, the results were just as true in impoverished neighborhoods as they were in more affluent areas, offering one possible way of improving blighted areas.

But in a sparsely populated neighborhood, increases in …. Read the original article  : Mixed-use neighbourhoods can reduce crime.

Graham Greene, W. Somerset Maugham were MI6 wartime spies, book reveals

LONDON – Britain’s Secret Intelligence Service has admitted for the first time that famous authors like Graham Greene, W. Somerset Maugham and Arthur Ransome were staff members of MI6.

According to The Guardian, Compton Mackenzie, Malcolm Muggeridge, and philosopher AJ “Freddie” Ayer were among the many exotic characters who agreed to spy for Britain, mainly during … Read more : Graham Greene, W. Somerset Maugham were MI6 wartime spies, book reveals.

No proof of Pak moving against Haqqani group: Holbrooke

New York: US Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Richard Holbrooke has said that Islamabad has not yet acted against the Haqqani group- a Taliban ally- as the nation’s fight against terrorism has been constrained by the need to deploy troops in flood …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : No proof of Pak moving against Haqqani group: Holbrooke.

Soon, 155mph high speed “Superbus” with ambience of business class cabin of aircraft

BERLIN – Delft University of Technology is all set to unveil the prototype of a 155mph “Superbus” in Germany with a carrying capacity of 23 passengers.

Billed as a “future vision of sustainable public transport”, the “Superbus” is as long as a conventional bus but no taller than a four-wheel drive sports utility …. Read the original article  : Soon, 155mph high speed “Superbus” with ambience of business class cabin of aircraft.

Pushy parents and SATs leaving 11-yr-olds ’stressed and nervous’

LONDON – A new UK study has revealed that pressure from pushy parents and SATs tests are leaving a generation of 11-year-olds ’stressed and nervous’.

Queen’s University researchers questioned as many as 1000 eleven and 12-year-olds.

Youngsters said their primary school years are marred by feelings of anxiety and inadequacy due to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pushy parents and SATs leaving 11-yr-olds ’stressed and nervous’.

At least 28 people killed in three drone strikes in Waziristan

Lahore: At least 28 people were killed when three US-led drone attacks struck in remote areas of South and North Waziristan in Pakistan.

According to sources, the first attack took place in Miranshah, where the drone aircraft pounded two missiles, killing at least nine people, the Daily Times …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : At least 28 people killed in three drone strikes in Waziristan.

Meet the 8 Brit boys who have the same IQ as Einstein

LONDON – Eight boys at King’s School in Grantham, Lincs have the same IQ as genius Albert Einstein.

They equalled Einstein’s estimated IQ of 160 – also Professor Stephen Hawking’s score – in a test for brains club Mensa.

One pupil, Edward Roberts (16) doing four AS levels at the school scored …. Source article  : Meet the 8 Brit boys who have the same IQ as Einstein.

China confirms plans to build two more nuclear reactors for Pakistan

Beijing: China has confirmed its plans of helping Pakistan in expanding its Chashma nuclear energy complex by building two reactors in addition to one already operating and another nearing completion.

“This project is based on an agreement signed between the two countries in 2003 [..] Read the original article: here.

US military postpones Guam buildup decisions on live fire training range, carrier berth

US military postpones 2 Guam buildup decisions

HONOLULU – The U.S. military has postponed two key decisions related to its buildup of forces on Guam to ensure it’s complying with environmental and historic preservation laws.
But it gave final approval to the single biggest part of the buildup: a proposal to move 8,000 Marines from Okinawa, Japan … Read more : US military postpones Guam buildup decisions on live fire training range, carrier berth.

Barack Obama, Sarah Palin in ‘Archie’ comics?

NEW YORK – US President Barack Obama and former Alaska governor Sarah Palin will be teaming-up – in an upcoming edition of Archie comics.

The pair is reportedly dragged into a heated campaign battle between eternal teenager Archie Andrews and arch nemesis Reggie, who are both …. Source  : Barack Obama, Sarah Palin in ‘Archie’ comics?.

Chinese girl sets quickest human calculator-world record

NEW DELHI – A Chinese girl has created a world record for doing complex mental arithmetic with supersonic speed.

Chen Ranran, the university student from Wuhan, Hubei Province, has gained popularity for her ability to calculate.

The record was for performing complex calculations using 15-digit numbers and Guinness …. Source article  : Chinese girl sets quickest human calculator-world record.

Images of Latin American sufferings in Delhi

NEW DELHI – They narrate gut-wrenching tales of immigration, natural disasters, middle-class urban angst and street stage in several Latin American nations. Ten emerging Mexican photographers have brought snapshots of life on the edge in Latin America and the triumphant human spirit in an exhibition here.

The photographs in the exhibition “Resilencia (Resilience)” at the Instituto …. Source article  : Images of Latin American sufferings in Delhi.

Pak slashes development outlay to make way for Rs110 bn increase in defence budget

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan, projecting an increase of 110 billion rupees in its defence budget, has informed the International Monetary Fund (IMF) that due to the post-flood situation, the defence budget will be 552 billion rupees against the …. Original article  : Pak slashes development outlay to make way for Rs110 bn increase in defence budget.

Economic growth to be over 8.75 per cent in fiscal 2010-11: Mukherjee

NEW DELHI – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Thursday said the Indian economy will post a better growth rate than the 8.75 per cent in the current fiscal as projected by the ‘Economic Survey’.

“I am optimistic that at the end of this year we will be able to surpass … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Economic growth to be over 8.75 per cent in fiscal 2010-11: Mukherjee.

Security tightened in Uttar Pradesh ahead of Babri Masjid verdict

LUCKNOW – Elaborate security arrangements have been made in Uttar Pradesh ahead of Friday’s verdict on the Babri Masjid Ayodhya title case.

Over 100′000 security personnel will police every corner of Ayodhya, Faizabad, Lucknow and 19 other sensitive areas in the state.

Chief … Original source on Gaea Times at : Security tightened in Uttar Pradesh ahead of Babri Masjid verdict.

US grants political asylum to Mexican reporter

Mexico City, Sep 23 (IANS/EFE) Jorge Luis Aguirre, a Mexican journalist who said he got death threats from authorities in his country, has been granted political asylum in the US, the online daily La Polaka reported.

Aguirre, who is La Polaka’s editor, fled to the US with his family in November 2008, hours after another reporter … Read more : US grants political asylum to Mexican reporter.

A memoir, movies and Pakistan, print that matters (IANS Books This Week)

NEW DELHI – Live through the last lap of monsoon with a collection of powerful stories – both fact and fiction. Surf the week’s list:

1. “No Way Home”; Written by Amarjit Sidhu; Published by Penguin-Books India; Priced at Rs.299
The novel is set in Punjab of the early 1980s. As separatists and the …. Read the original article  : A memoir, movies and Pakistan, print that matters (IANS Books This Week).

S. Korea gearing up for G-20 Summit

Seoul (S. Korea), – With only 50 days left for the G-20 Seoul Summit, Korea is making conscientious efforts to gather a consensus in putting development as one of the major topics for discussion.

The Seoul Summit agenda can be broken into two categories. The first category consists of the agenda items to be followed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : S. Korea gearing up for G-20 Summit.

Kashmir Valley still under curfew

SRINAGAR – Curfew restrictions continued to remain in force for the 12th consecutive day in all major towns of the Kashmir Valley on Thursday, even as the separatists called for a break in their agitational programme.

On Wednesday, curfew was relaxed in a phased manner across the Valley.

“The curfew in almost all the areas of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kashmir Valley still under curfew.

Qaeda likely to attempt frequent small-scale but deadly terrorist attacks in US: Officials

WASHINGTON – Al-Qaeda and its allies are likely to attempt small-scale and less sophisticated terrorist attacks in the United States, senior Obama administration officials have said.

Testifying before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Janet Napolitano, Homeland Security Secretary, said: “Unlike large-scale, coordinated, catastrophic attacks, executing smaller-scale attacks requires less planning and fewer pre-operational …. Original source  : Qaeda likely to attempt frequent small-scale but deadly terrorist attacks in US: Officials.

Musharraf to return to Pak to join unified Muslim League, not for presidency: Pir Pagara

KARACHI – PML-F Chairman Pir Pagara has stated that former military ruler Pervez Musharraf would return to Pakistan not for becoming the country’s president, but to join the unified Muslim League.

Pagara made this statement while talking to media persons, after meeting a delegation of Musharraf-led All-Pakistan Muslim League (APML) leaders, who had called upon him … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Musharraf to return to Pak to join unified Muslim League, not for presidency: Pir Pagara.

‘Ciggies, whisky and wild women’ key to world’s oldest man’s longevity

LONDON – The world’s oldest man celebrated his 114th birthday Tuesday in his retirement home in Great Falls, Montana.

Walter Breuning, born Sept. 21, 1896 in Melrose, Minn. Breuning attributes his unusual longevity to “cigarettes, whisky and wild, wild women-and a good sense of humor,” according to Guinness World Records, reports the Discovery.

For 50 years, Breuning …. Read the original article  : ‘Ciggies, whisky and wild women’ key to world’s oldest man’s longevity.

Netflix heralds Canadian debut by hiring actors to masquerade as fans in media interviews

Netflix hires actors to pose as its Canada fans

SAN FRANCISCO – Netflix turned the Canadian debut of its online video streaming service into a fake Hollywood-style production with actors hired to pose as the company’s fans.
The publicity stunt went awry in Toronto Wednesday after reporters discovered the actors had been given written instructions gush about …. Original source  : Netflix heralds Canadian debut by hiring actors to masquerade as fans in media interviews.

Crew diaries to be reunited with historic 1817 India-built HMS Trincomalee in UK

LONDON – Journals written by sailors on board HMS Trincomalee, Britain’s oldest surviving warship which was built in India in 1817, will be reunited with the ship at a special ceremony in Teesside, England.

The journals had been locked away in Royal Navy … Read more : Crew diaries to be reunited with historic 1817 India-built HMS Trincomalee in UK.

Pakistan urges IAEA to help it in building more nuclear plants

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has urged the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to help facilitate its need to build more nuclear power plants in order to overcome an acute energy shortfall in the country and also to support its social and economic development.

Addressing … Read : Pakistan urges IAEA to help it in building more nuclear plants.

Passenger train derails in Chhattisgarh

DANTEWADA – The engine and a bogie of the Kirandul-Vishakhapatnam passenger train derailed near Bhansi Railway Station in Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada District this morning.

The incident took palace at around 6 a.m. after the train left the Kirandul Railway Station.

No casualties have been reported.

Police are suspecting [..] Read the original article: here.

Arms and ammunitions recovered from a Maoist hideout in Jharkhand

PALAMU – Jharkhand Police have recovered weapons including rifles, detonators and literature in Palamu District.

In a joint operation launched by the state police and the Central Reserve Police Force, the security forces recovered the cache from a hideout in Ratnag village near … Read : Arms and ammunitions recovered from a Maoist hideout in Jharkhand.

Yamuna river crosses 207 m mark in Delhi

NEW DELHI – The Yamuna rose over two meters above the danger level and crossed the 207 m mark in Delhi for the first time since 1978 on Thursday.

Authorities said the water level is expected to go up further by afternoon, but insisted that all arrangements [..] Read the original article: here.

Restoring pieces of history – Adi Granth to Tagore portrait

LUCKNOW – A portrait of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore dating back to the early 1940s had become dull and lifeless. The colours had faded with cracks and stains visible on the surface. But the canvas has got a new lease of life.

This has been made possible by the Indian Conservation Institute-Lucknow (ICI-L), which claims to … Read more >>.

North, South Korea on brink of war: Russian diplomat warns

MOSCOW – A senior Russian diplomat has warned that North and South Korea are on the brink of war, and called on both to exercise restraint and sit down for talks.

The Telegraph quoted Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexei Borodavkin, as saying that tensions between the two countries were running at their highest and most … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : North, South Korea on brink of war: Russian diplomat warns.

Missing Indian millionaire’s second wife plays recording of demand for ransom

KLANG – S. Usharani, the second wife of Indian millionaire A. Muthuraja, has produced a recorded telephone conversation which she had with a man who demanded a RM1mil ransom from her to ensure his safety. She also vowed to bring to justice those responsible for his death.

The recording of the conversation between herself and … Read more »»».

7,25,000 Brits are either gays or bisexuals: Study

LONDON – A total of 7,25,000 Brits are either gays or bisexuals, the first ever official figures have revealed.

The groundbreaking nationwide survey reveals 480,000 adults describe themselves as homosexuals, just one in 100, whereas another 245,000, one in 200, are bisexual.

The findings demolish claims by gay campaigners that up to one in ten people in …. Source article  : 7,25,000 Brits are either gays or bisexuals: Study.

China to focus on peaceful development, never seek hegemony: Wen

BEIJING – Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, has said that his country, whose economy just overtook Japan’s as the world’s second-largest, will continue its path of peaceful development, and never seek hegemony with its strength.

The remark came after some countries raised suspicions that China is gradually becoming a hegemony, which is allegedly indicated in …. Original article  : China to focus on peaceful development, never seek hegemony: Wen.

Prithvi-II missile fails to take off

BHUBANESWAR – The nuclear capable Prithvi-II ballistic missile failed to take off during a user trial from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur on sea, off the Orissa coast today.

The test-fire was held as a part of user’s trial by the armed forces.

According to defence sources, the failure to lift Prithvi-II was due …. Source article  : Prithvi-II missile fails to take off.

AP Interview: Hiker released from Iran prison says ‘life will not resume’ until other 2 freed

AP Interview: Hiker talks of 410 days in Iran jail

NEW YORK – Her 410 days of solitary confinement in an Iran prison were mostly cramped quarters and endless monotony, but Sarah Shourd chooses to savor the few moments of joy: a proposal from her boyfriend and a chocolate birthday cake.
Shourd, her boyfriend Shane Bauer and … Original source on Gaea Times at : AP Interview: Hiker released from Iran prison says ‘life will not resume’ until other 2 freed.

Curfew imposed across Kashmir Valley

SRINAGAR – Curfew was imposed in Srinagar and other major towns of the Kashmir Valley to prevent Friday protests called by the separatists. Officials said schools would open from Monday and that steps are being taken to end the cycle of violence.

“Curfew has been imposed to maintain law and order,” a senior police officer said …. Source  : Curfew imposed across Kashmir Valley.

At vigil, Vt. town prays and sings for missing grandmother and puzzles over her abduction

Vt. town holds vigil for abducted grandmother

SHEFFIELD, Vt. – With songs, poems, prayers and candles, a Vermont town has gathered to keep hope alive for a missing 78-year-old woman abducted from her home nearly two weeks ago.
About 150 people turned out Thursday in tiny Sheffield for a candlelight vigil for Pat O’Hagan, a widow who …. Read the original article  : here.

Hindus welcome St. Thomas University of Florida efforts to bring religions together

NEVADA – Hindus have welcomed St. Thomas University of Florida (USA) for creating interdenominational Ecumenical Institute.

According to Institute Director Rev. Diane Shoaf, it will “seek mutual understanding of the religious convictions and practices of other Christian traditions, other Abrahamic faiths and other world religions”.

Eminent Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hindus welcome St. Thomas University of Florida efforts to bring religions together.

Aliens monitoring US nuke arsenal, ex-Air Force officers worried

WASHINGTON – Six former U.S. Air Force officers and one former enlisted man have said that they will break their silence on reports of aliens monitoring America’s nuclear arsenal.

They plan to urge the government to publicly confirm the incidents, stating that they were ordered never to discuss the events.

“We’re talking about unidentified flying objects, as … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Aliens monitoring US nuke arsenal, ex-Air Force officers worried.

Nomination of NCCF approved

NEW DELHI – The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) today approved the nomination of National Cooperative Consumer Federation of India Ltd. (NCCF) for procurement of oilseeds and pulses.

It also approved the Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) and other public sector undertaking for procurement of oilseeds and pulses in addition to NAFED under Price Support Scheme …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

National Identification Authority of India Bill approved

NEW DELHI – The Union Cabinet today approved the proposal for introducing the National Identification Authority of India Bill, 2010 in Parliament.

The Bill proposes to constitute a statutory authority to be called the National Identification Authority of India and lay down the powers and functions of the authority, the framework for issuing UID numbers (aadhaar [..] Read the original article: here.

Palin says will run for 2012 presidential polls if nobody else steps up

NEW YORK – Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin has said that she might consider running for US president in 2012 if no one else steps to the plate.

Asked what “would be a reason to run” during an interview, and Fox News quoted Palin, as saying: “A reason to run is if nobody else were to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rakesh Bedi and Chetanya Adib in BAAT BAAT MEIN BIGDEY HAALAT…a New Hindi Comedy Play

September 24, 2010 (Sampurn Wire): Sameer Iqbal Patel has written and directed this situational Hindi comedy play, which features the veteran actor, Rakesh Bedi, who’s done over 200 Hindi films, dozen popular TV shows and numerous plays. Rakesh Bedi shares the stage with Chetanya Adib, a well known face on TV, and who has shot … Read more : Rakesh Bedi and Chetanya Adib in BAAT BAAT MEIN BIGDEY HAALAT…a New Hindi Comedy Play.

Fury over Indian students being ‘cheated’ following change in Oz residency laws

MELBOURNE – Thousands of foreign students, including Indians, might reportedly ignore the Australian government’s “cap and cull” bill that aims to cancel the visa applications of international students, and try to stay in the country illegally, especially once they realise that that the stricter rules would dash their hopes of applying for permanent residency.

According …. Source  : Fury over Indian students being ‘cheated’ following change in Oz residency laws.

Obama to Bill Clinton: Your wife is “all-around more impressive”

NEW YORK – President Barack Obama praised the intelligence and talents of his top diplomat, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, while ribbing her husband and his White House predecessor Bill Clinton at a meeting of the Clinton Global Initiative.

According to Politico, Obama turned to Bill Clinton and asked: “What it’s like to be married to … Read : Obama to Bill Clinton: Your wife is “all-around more impressive”.

2 Dallas police officers fired for their alleged roles in beating of suspect after chase

Dallas officers fired for alleged roles in beating

DALLAS – Two Dallas officers facing criminal charges for their alleged roles in a suspect’s beating that was captured on police video have been fired.
The announcement Thursday by Chief David Brown brings to three the number of officers kicked off the Dallas force over the beating that happened …. Source  : 2 Dallas police officers fired for their alleged roles in beating of suspect after chase.

US, EU countries’ delegates walk-out to protest Ahmadinejad’s UN speech on 9/11 attacks

NEW YORK – Diplomats from the U.S. and several European countries at the 65th UN General Assembly walked out in protest against the speech of Iranian president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, after he said that Washington staged the 9/11 attacks to protect Israel.

Ahmadinejad was speaking on the first day of a week-long UN diplomatic marathon at its …. Original article  : US, EU countries’ delegates walk-out to protest Ahmadinejad’s UN speech on 9/11 attacks.

Michelle is the ‘moral center’ that guides me: Barack Obama

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has said that wife Michelle is the ‘moral center’ that guides him through the chatter in Washington.

Obama gushed with pride as he introduced first lady Michelle for her speech at the Clinton Global Initiative, telling the crowd that she’s the “moral center” that guides him through the noise of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Michelle is the ‘moral center’ that guides me: Barack Obama.

World War II Indian-RAF flying ace Squadron Leader Mahinder Singh Pujji dies

LONDON – An Indian pilot who served for the United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force (RAF) during World War II has died at the Darent Valley Hospital in Kent after suffering a stroke.

Squadron Leader Mahinder Singh Pujji, 92, was believed to be the last surviving fighter pilot from a group of 24 Indians who … Read more >>.

I came this close to turning stone thrower in Srinagar (First Person)

I lacked guts, otherwise a policeman had done all he could to turn me into a stone-thrower on the streets of Srinagar.

After days of frustration due to strict restrictions on public movement, I mustered the courage to drive out of my house in the curfewed summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir that has been bristling … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : I came this close to turning stone thrower in Srinagar (First Person).

A-G report unearths massive irregularities in Pakistan’s defence expenditure

ISLAMABAD – A whopping 2.5 billion rupees were wasted in “commonly occurring irregularities” in several departments of Pakistan’s armed forces and defence ministry, a report formulated by the Auditor General of Pakistan has revealed.

The Auditor General Report 2009-10, submitted to parliament, made startling revelations that 801.06 million rupees were lost due to violation of rules, … Read more »»».

Landslides leave three thousand tourists stranded in Uttarkashi

UTTARKASHI – Landslides triggered by flashfloods have left approximately three thousand tourists stranded in Uttarakhand’s Uttarkashi District.

The tourists from various states were on their way to ‘Char dham yatra’ to the popular pilgrimage of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri.

The tourists said that they do not have enough food, drinking water and money left with them.

“We … Original source on Gaea Times at : Landslides leave three thousand tourists stranded in Uttarkashi.

Chinese making fortunes out of ‘e-business’ trend

NEW DELHI – E-shopping is no more a “shelter” for Chinese youngsters to make their living, but is now one of the most lucrative business options.

He Hongwei, a college graduate living in central eastern China’s Zhejiang Province, began selling novelty toys on the Internet after failing to get a job. Five years on, he has … Original article on : Chinese making fortunes out of ‘e-business’ trend.

Scotland’s iconic ‘Famous Grouse’ to be transformed into steel sculpture

LONDON – One of Scotland’s most iconic and loved brand images, the “Famous Grouse” is set for transformation.

The Edrington Group will build a 20ft statue of the bird in flight – a massive steel sculpture at the gateway to the Highlands as Perthshire’s answer to the Angel of the North.

The red grouse – Lagopus lagopus … Read more : Scotland’s iconic ‘Famous Grouse’ to be transformed into steel sculpture.

1 in 7 Brit men use make-up like Boy George

LONDON – More than three million Brit men admit using make-up like Boy George, says a new study.

The study revealed that one in seven blokes use face powder and lippy like the ex-Culture Club star, 49.

The survey was conducted by Opinium Research.

“It looks like metrosexual man is here to stay,” the Daily Star quoted James … Read more >>.

Nursing bra, bikini among items up for grabs at Octomom yard sale in Southern Calif.

Bra, bikini among items at Octomom yard sale

LA HABRA, Calif. – “Octomom” Nadya Suleman’s presumably well-broken-in nursing bra will be among the items up for bid at a planned auction-style yard sale at her Orange County home.
Saturday morning’s auction is being hosted by radio personality David Gonzalez who goes by the name “Tattoo.”
Gonzalez tells the …. Source  : Nursing bra, bikini among items up for grabs at Octomom yard sale in Southern Calif..

Roman Catholic school could be handed over to a mosque in UK

LONDON – A Roman Catholic primary school could become the first in England to be run by a mosque after a dramatic rise in the number of Muslim pupils.

According to a Daily Mail report, church bosses want to close Sacred Heart RC Primary School, in Blackburn, Lancashire, because the number of Catholic students has plummeted … Original source on Gaea Times at : Roman Catholic school could be handed over to a mosque in UK.

Boobs fetish lands Malaysian teen in jail

KUALA LUMPUR – A Malaysian teenager has been arrested after he went around harassing women by squeezing their breasts and even flashing his private parts.

The 17-year-old, nicknamed Mat Tetek, came from Kluang to live with his elder sister in Kampung Parit Yusof in Muar.

The police detained him after tracking down his motorcycle he used …. Source article  : Boobs fetish lands Malaysian teen in jail.

Rajapaksa urges UN to rethink humanitarian rules of war in modern day context

COLOMBO – Facing global criticism for alleged human rights violations during the LTTE war, Sri Lankan president, Mahinda Rajapaksa, has called for a rethink on international rules governing the conduct of war, during his address at the United Nations conference in New York City.

According to the BBC, Rajapaksa stopped short of explicitly calling for …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Rajapaksa urges UN to rethink humanitarian rules of war in modern day context.

Despite 9/11 rant, Ahmadinejad hopes nuclear programme talks will restart by October

TEHRAN – Iranian president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, has reportedly dismissed criticisms over his speech at the United Nations, in which he asserted that most people believed the United States orchestrated the September 11 terror attacks, and expressed hope that talks on Iran’s nuclear programme would resume soon.

According to The New York Times, Ahmadinejad expressed …. Original source  : Despite 9/11 rant, Ahmadinejad hopes nuclear programme talks will restart by October.

Hindus ask urgent steps to eliminate global hunger

NEVADA – World should take immediate steps to tackle global hunger and poverty, eminent Hindu statesman Rajan Zed stated in Nevada (USA) today.

Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, pointed out that number of hungry people had risen in the world crossing the billion mark. Something needed to be done urgently as it … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Hindus ask urgent steps to eliminate global hunger.

70 percent lamb imports from NZ to UK is halal, and not put on label

LONDON – Over 70 per cent of the New Zealand lamb sold in Britain comes from halal slaughterhouses and this fact is not declared on the label.

All the slaughterers in these establishments must be Muslim and say a prayer when making the cut across the animal’s throat, which kills it, the Daily Mail reports.

The … Original source on Gaea Times at : 70 percent lamb imports from NZ to UK is halal, and not put on label.

Hindus laud City of Ann Arbor for “reaffirming religious freedom”

NEVADA – Hindus have applauded City of Ann Arbor (Michigan, USA) for passing a resolution reaffirming religious freedom.minent Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, commended Ann

Arbor City Council for taking religion seriously as it was the most powerful force in human society. Prevalence of different religions was a positive …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Hindus laud City of Ann Arbor for “reaffirming religious freedom”.

Pooches are singles’ best bedmates

MELBOURNE – Dogs are called a man’s-and a woman’s-best friend, but now these furry mates have become so close to singles in Australia that they ease their loneliness by sharing their bed with pooches.

About one in three singles said they let their dog or cat in their bed, a major shift from 10 years ago …. Original source  : Pooches are singles’ best bedmates.

Brit pensioner who has smoked 292,000 ciggies celebrates 100th b’day

LONDON – A British chain smoker has celebrated his 100th birthday, despite smoking nearly 300,000 cigarettes and sipping a glass of whisky a day.

Old soldier Arthur Langran – who survived being blown up by a grenade in the Second World War – claims the key to his longevity is doing what everyone tells him not … Original source on Gaea Times at : Brit pensioner who has smoked 292,000 ciggies celebrates 100th b’day.

Bruni’s ‘Absolute Beginners”worst cover version in pop music history’

LONDON – Critics have slammed French First Lady Carla Bruni-Sarkozy for recording a David Bowie song.

A leading French music critic has in fact described it as the worst cover version in the history of pop music.

Judging by initial reactions, the French first lady’s version of Absolute Beginners, which has been leaked on the Internet, …. Original source  : Bruni’s ‘Absolute Beginners’ ‘worst cover version in pop music history’.

Jnanpith winner ONV arrives to rousing welcome

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Noted Malayalam poet and lyricist O.N.V. Kurup, who has been named for the Jnanpith Award, arrived to a rousing welcome at the airport here Saturday on his return from Dubai. He was received by ministers, close friends, students and hundreds of children.

Emerging from the arrival lounge, ONV, as he is popularly called, was … Original article on : Jnanpith winner ONV arrives to rousing welcome.

Missing Malay-Indian businessman’s second wife accuses in-laws of ‘coveting’ his wealth

KUALA LUMPUR – Tired of being called a gold digger, S. Usharani, the second wife of missing Malay-Indian businessman A. Muthuraja has accused her in-laws of coveting her husband’s wealth.

“They have been against me since we got married. They wanted my husband’s property … Original article on : Missing Malay-Indian businessman’s second wife accuses in-laws of ‘coveting’ his wealth.

Former Brit porn star ‘answers God’s call to become missionary’

LONDON – Former erotic actress Teresa Scott has turned a new leaf, after deciding to leave the sex industry to become a born again Christian.

Scott made a fortune posing for Playboy magazine and starring in hundreds of XXX-rated lesbian and kinky sex films, but last year she … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Former Brit porn star ‘answers God’s call to become missionary’.

Unruly passenger forces flight en route to Amsterdam to return to Seattle; no injuries

Unruly passenger forces flight’s return to Seattle

SEATTLE – A Delta spokeswoman says an unruly passenger on a flight bound for Amsterdam forced pilots to return the plane to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport shortly after take-off.
Airline spokeswoman Leslie Parker says Flight 224 left the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport at about 6:05 p.m. Saturday. About 30 minutes later, she … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Unruly passenger forces flight en route to Amsterdam to return to Seattle; no injuries.

Calif. gov. signs law honoring man who defied Japanese-American internment during World War II

Calif. law honors World War II internment critic

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A man who challenged the World War II internment of Japanese-Americans will be honored in California every year under a bill signed into law by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Schwarzenegger on Friday signed legislation designating Jan. 30 as Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution [..] Read the original article: here.

Frank Mir knocks out Mirko Filipovic in heavyweight bout at UFC 119

Mir knocks out Filipovic at UFC 119
INDIANAPOLIS – Frank Mir waited for the right moment, then knocked out Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic with a hard knee to the face and a strike to the chin late in the third round of their heavyweight bout at UFC 119.

Mir earned an important victory in his quest to …. Original source  : Frank Mir knocks out Mirko Filipovic in heavyweight bout at UFC 119.

Average youngster has 3 sexual partners by age 16: UK study

LONDON – A shocking UK survey revealed that an average youngster today has had underage sex with three people by the time they reach 16 and two of their partners are likely to have been one night stands.

In 10 percent cases, teenagers have slept with someone without even knowing their name whereas older youths are …. Source article  : Average youngster has 3 sexual partners by age 16: UK study.

IBSA to focus on reforming UN Security Council: Krishna

NEW YORK – External Affairs Minister S.M Krishna has said that the IBSA (India, Brazil and South Africa) countries should be in a position to collaborate closely on major issues before the agenda of the Security Council starting from January 1, 2011.

Speaking during the IBSA ministerial meeting here, Krishna said: “With our shared … Read more : IBSA to focus on reforming UN Security Council: Krishna.

Pak Danish embassy bombing case: Court acquits trio for “insufficient evidence”

ISLAMABAD – A Pakistani court has reportedly acquitted three men accused of involvement in the bombing of the Danish embassy in Islamabad because of “insufficient evidence”.

According to the BBC, the trio was arrested several months after the suicide car bomb attack that killed six people, including a Dane, in June 2008.

Prosecutor Mohammad Tayyab said the …. Read the original article  : Pak Danish embassy bombing case: Court acquits trio for “insufficient evidence”.

UN official calls for detailed inquiry on Afghan deaths

LONDON – A United Nations investigation into alleged war crimes in Afghanistan should be launched to identify and prosecute individuals responsible, says a former top-ranking UN official, Philip Alston, on extra judicial killings.

According to The Guardian, Alston called for the UN Human Rights Council to investigate the “conduct of the war” in Afghanistan amid rising … Read : UN official calls for detailed inquiry on Afghan deaths.

Chile Miners’ capsule arrives at the San Jose mine in Chile

LONDON – Finally a sign of relief for the 33 Chilean miners who are trapped underground since August as the first capsule specially built for their rescue reached the San Jose mine in Chile on Saturday.

According to Sky News, the man-size tube made of steel mesh and sheets will lift the men out one … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Chile Miners’ capsule arrives at the San Jose mine in Chile.

Indian sand sculptor wins three medals in US

WASHINGTON – Noted Indian sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has won three medals in the North American sand sculpting competition at Virginia Beach as part of the Neptune Festival 2010 celebrating its 37th anniversary.

Pattnaik, one of 11 professional sculptors to take part in the largest competition of its kind in the US, won medals for Neptune’s … Read : Indian sand sculptor wins three medals in US.

Reliving the music and memories of Mallikarjun Mansur

NEW DELHI – Mallikarjun Mansur was so “full of music” that each time he opened his mouth music would flow out of him. He would often sing at the top of his voice at railway stations, bus stops, airports, betel shops – oblivious to his surroundings, recall celebrities who knew the legendary classical musician.

Lovers of [..] Read the original article: here.

Whitney’s late scoring pass, tough defense enable Villanova to outlast Penn 22-10

Villanova struggles to defeat Penn 22-10
VILLANOVA, Pa. – Chris Whitney’s 21-yard touchdown pass to Norman White put Villanova ahead to stay with less than five minutes left and the Wildcats held off Pennsylvania 22-10 on Saturday night.

Leading 15-10, Villanova (3-1) then turned it over to its defense. James Pitts intercepted Billy Ragone’s pass on the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Whitney’s late scoring pass, tough defense enable Villanova to outlast Penn 22-10.

CCTVs installed in Moradabad ahead of Ayodhya verdict

MORADABAD – CCTV cameras have been installed in different parts of Moradabad district to help police keep a strict vigil, ahead of Tuesday’s verdict on the Babri Masjid Ayodhya title case.

“CCTV cameras have been installed in different parts of the city. These cameras are being controlled and monitored from the nearest police station. As this …. Original article  : CCTVs installed in Moradabad ahead of Ayodhya verdict.

Bihar poll exercise set to begin on Monday

NEW DELHI – The Bihar Assembly poll exercise will be set in motion on Monday.

Governor Devanand Konwar will issue the notification for the first phase of Assembly polls.

The six-phase poll for 243 seats begins from October 21 and concludes November 20

The first phase of elections will take place on October 21 for 47 state assembly … Original article on : Bihar poll exercise set to begin on Monday.

Queen’s top bodyguard suspended after gunshot blunder

LONDON – The Queen’s top bodyguard has been suspended from duty after accidentally firing a shot inside the royal palace.

The loaded gun went off as SAS-trained Ian Boyes was cleaning it. He was alone and off duty.

The blunder at Holyroodhouse came just hours before the Pope’s visit there on September 16 to meet …. Original article  : Queen’s top bodyguard suspended after gunshot blunder.

Musharraf says he will return to politics “for the greater cause of Pakistan”

LONDON – Pakistan’s former military leader Pervez Musharraf, a prominent figure on the global lecture circuit for the last two years, has declared that he wants to re-enter his nation’s political arena “for the greater cause.”

“I am very comfortable travelling around the world on lectures, but I am going into politics for the greater cause …. Read the original article  : Musharraf says he will return to politics “for the greater cause of Pakistan”.

Beijing’s summer palace marks 150 years of destruction

BEIJING – People in the Chinese capital would soon be able to see how the country overcame the destruction and loot of the imperial summer palace that took place 150 years ago at the hands of the Anglo-French allied forces.

Yuanmingyuan – or the old summer palace – in Beijing was burned down by Anglo-French allied …. Source  : Beijing’s summer palace marks 150 years of destruction.

GoM on Bhopal gas tragedy to meet on Monday

NEW DELHI – The Group of Ministers panel on 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy will meet here on Monday to assess the progress made since the GoM handed over its recommendations to the Union Cabinet three months ago.

According to sources, the panel headed by Home Minister P Chidambaram will review the progress made by various … Read this article on Gaea Times at : GoM on Bhopal gas tragedy to meet on Monday.

AP photographer suffers broken rib while covering West Bank protest

AP photographer wounded during West Bank protest

BEIT OMAR, West Bank – An Associated Press photographer suffered a broken rib on Saturday while being detained by Israeli security forces during a protest in the West Bank.
The photographer, Nasser Shiyoukhi, was injured in Beit Omar, a Palestinian village where residents, joined by foreign activists, hold a weekly …. Source article  : AP photographer suffers broken rib while covering West Bank protest.

NJ cops: Man denied access to party near Seton Hall leaves, returns with gun; 5 shot, 1 dead

5 shot at party near Seton Hall in NJ; 1 killed

EAST ORANGE, N.J. – A man who was denied access to a private party at an apartment near Seton Hall University left and returned with a handgun, fatally shooting a university student and wounding four other people.
Seton Hall student Jessica Moore, 19, died from her … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NJ cops: Man denied access to party near Seton Hall leaves, returns with gun; 5 shot, 1 dead.

American’s R-and-B stylings win him 1 million dumplings at karaoke championships

American wins dumplings at karaoke worlds
MOSCOW – A technician for an American telephone company has won the top prize of 1 million Russian dumplings in the Karaoke World Championships.

Edward Pimentel won the unusual prize early Sunday in Moscow after getting the most votes from audience members.
A panel of judges chose two Finns as the male … Original article on : American’s R-and-B stylings win him 1 million dumplings at karaoke championships.

Female robber in Oz strips to bikini before fleeing with 500 dlrs in cash

MELBOURNE – A female robber in Darwin, Australia is said to have robbed a fast food restaurant, and then stripped to a bikini before fleeing with more than 500 dollars in cash.

The woman, believed to be between 25 and 30 years of age, walked into a Berrimah’s Subway …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Female robber in Oz strips to bikini before fleeing with 500 dlrs in cash.

Sacked ‘too hot’ Citi-banker doesn’t want fame, Playboy, just to set example

NEW YORK – The sexy banker, who sued Citigroup for firing her after she complained that male co-workers couldn’t control themselves around her, has said that she does not want fame or to appear in Playboy but only to set an example.

Debrahlee Lorenzana, who revealed that [..] Read the original article: here.

Pratibha Murthy murder verdict on October 6

BANGALORE – A fast track court will deliver its verdict on October 6 in the rape and murder case of Pratibha Murthy.

Murthy, an employee of the Hewlett-Packard run business process outsourcing arm in Bangalore, was allegedly raped and murdered in 2005 by the driver of … Read more »».

NSW workers spending less time at work than a decade ago

MELBOURNE – A new research has shown that New South Wales (NSW) workers spend less time in the office than a decade ago.

While full-timers older than 65 are working the longest hours of any age group at 44 hours a week, it’s Generation Y leading the way on the work-life …. Read the original article  : here.

UK police probing Lib Dem MP on ’seduction’ charge

LONDON – Police are investigating a senior Liberal Democrat lawmaker for reportedly trying to seduce a vulnerable female constituent.

The 36-year-old single mother reportedly approached Mike Hancock, MP for Portsmouth South, with problems about noisy neighbours and inadequacies in her healthcare.

Over a number of months, the married politician took the woman to dinner, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Free beer’ ad to boost Budweiser image amongst youngsters

WASHINGTON – Budweiser has kicked off a major ad strategy in order to boost sales and a hipper Bud image to younger beer drinkers over the next several weeks.

It will unleash its biggest-ever national free-sample effort in trendy bars and eateries.

The campaign begins Monday, with the slogan “Grab some Buds,” reports ABC News.

Bud unit …. Original source  : ‘Free beer’ ad to boost Budweiser image amongst youngsters.

French MEP Rachida Dati confuses fellatio with inflation

LONDON – French politician Rachida Dati has had to issue an apology after she made an embarrassing blunder by confusing fellatio with inflation.

Dati, 44, a former Justice Minister, who is frequently nicknamed “Rachida Barbie” because of her poor understanding of complicated political issues, made the mistake while … Read more >>>.

Clinton Palin 2008 prez campaigns affected by overt sexism, says new book

NEW YORK – A new book about the 2008 campaigns of Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin has opined that both were targets of overt sexism-related attacks and got a raw deal, which led to their respective losses to Barack Obama and Joe Biden.

The book is titled “Big Girls Don’t Cry”, which has been … Read more : Clinton Palin 2008 prez campaigns affected by overt sexism, says new book.

Unscrupulous people nixing search for missing Indian millionaire in Malaysia, claims brother

KUALA LUMPUR – The youngest brother of missing Indian millionaire, A. Muthuraja, has claimed that some unscrupulous people have taken advantage of his family’s helplessness and desperation and cheated … Original article on : Unscrupulous people nixing search for missing Indian millionaire in Malaysia, claims brother.

Over three in ten migrants still feel unsafe after spending years in New Zealand

WELLINGTON – Over three in ten migrants in New Zealand still feel less satisfied and unsafe after spending several years in New Zealand, according to a survey released on Monday by the New Zealand Department of Labour and Statistics.

According to Xinhua, 24.2 percent of migrants …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Over three in ten migrants still feel unsafe after spending years in New Zealand.

US wants Bangladesh to deploy troops in Afghanistan

DHAKA – The US wants Bangladesh to deploy its troops in Afghanistan “to establish security and stability”, authorities said.

Bangladesh said it would do “whatever it can to help restore peace in South Asia, especially in Afghanistan”.
A Foreign Office news release said the subject was discussed when US special representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan … Read more : US wants Bangladesh to deploy troops in Afghanistan.

Japan asks China to pay for damage to patrol boats hit by Chinese trawler as tensions simmer

Japan asks China to cover damage to patrol boats

TOKYO – Japan asked China to pay for damage to Japanese patrol boats hit by a Chinese fishing vessel near disputed islands, as simmering tension between the two Asian neighbors showed no signs of easing Monday.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshito Sengoku’s remarks came a day after Japan’s prime …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Japan asks China to pay for damage to patrol boats hit by Chinese trawler as tensions simmer.

Aliens ‘hit our nukes’ claim US airmen

LONDON – Aliens have been hovering over US and UK since 1948 and hitting weapons-a scene, which seems straight from a sci-fi movie is actually a reality, only if US airmen are to be believed.

The researchers have claimed that since 1948, aliens have been hovering over UK and U.S. nuclear missile …. Source  : Aliens ‘hit our nukes’ claim US airmen.

MQM chief murdered in London was about to join Musharraf’s party

LONDON – Scotland Yard that is investigating the murder of leading Pakistani politician Dr. Imran Farooq has been told that rows within his Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) party may have led to his assassination.

Farooq was stabbed to death earlier this month during a knife attack … Read more »».

Families of abducted Chhattisgarh cops appeal for their release

RAIPUR – The families of policemen being held hostage by Maoists in Bhopalpatnam, near the Chhattisgarh- Andhra border, have appealed for their release without delay.

Maoists abducted the seven policemen last Sunday, including an Assistant Sub Inspector, a Special police officer and three … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Families of abducted Chhattisgarh cops appeal for their release.

Bhagat Singh’s historic alma mater in Lahore on brink of decay

LAHORE – Indian freedom fighter Bhagat Singh’s alma mater in Lahore, Bradlaugh Hall, is facing decay and may become a heap of bricks and building material if Pakistani authorities continue ignore the grand building.

Muhammad Iqbal Ashraf, registrar of the Milli Technical Idara (MTI), … Read more >>.

Bihar polls: Notification for first-phase issued

PATNA – Bihar Governor Devanand Konwar on Monday issued a notification for the first phase of the six-phased state Assembly elections.

Forty-seven out of 243 Assembly constituencies will go to polls in the first phase.

Additional Chief Electoral Officer Anshumali said: ” “The notification …. Source  : Bihar polls: Notification for first-phase issued.

Status of US ties with Pak was like a ‘cold shower’ for Obama: Woodward

WASHINGTON – Well-known author-cum-journalist Bob Woodward has revealed in his latest book “Obama’s Wars that President Barack Obama’s focus is turning increasingly to Pakistan, even as his administration’s military efforts continue to be directed at Afghanistan.

Woodward told …. Original article  : Status of US ties with Pak was like a ‘cold shower’ for Obama: Woodward.

US students register longest kiss record in Guinness Book

MELBOURNE – Two students have become the first same-sex pair to make it to the Guinness World Records for the longest continuous kiss ever-a 32 hour, 30 minute, 45 second smooch.

But, Matty Daley, 20, and Bobby Canciello, 19, said there was no romantic … Read : US students register longest kiss record in Guinness Book.

US, Afghan troops begin ‘The Battle For Kandahar’

KABUL – US and Afghan troops have reportedly begun active combat operations last week to drive the Taliban out of their strongholds surrounding the city of Kandahar.

Sixteen Americans have been killed so far, including two killed by a roadside bomb on Sunday.

While defining the current phase for the … Original article on : US, Afghan troops begin ‘The Battle For Kandahar’.

Goa police gears up for apex court verdict on Ayodhya

PANAJI – Security forces have been posted in sensitive areas of Goa, senior police official said Tuesday ahead of the Supreme court verdict on the Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid issue in Ayodhya.

Additional forces have also been roped in. “The towns of Margao, Mapusa, Vasco, Ponda and Curchorem have been provided additional force,” Director General of Police (DGP) … Original source on Gaea Times at : Goa police gears up for apex court verdict on Ayodhya.

‘Noisy’ Brit army bands ordered to wear earplugs to meet safety rules

LONDON – Army bandsmen in Britain have been asked to wear earplugs when they perform over health and safety concerns-but they are not liking as it makes them play out of tune and out of time.

All 1,100-soldier musicians have been ordered to yellow foam “ear defenders” to protect their hearing from the noise made by [..] Read the original article: here.

France on high alert after warnings of possible terrorist attacks

PARIS – France is reportedly on a high alert following repeated intelligence warnings that terrorists may be planning to carry out attacks in the country.

The French Interior Ministry had said that a foreign intelligence service had passed along a report suggesting that a female suicide bomber had planned to strike somewhere in Paris.

Although officials later … Read : France on high alert after warnings of possible terrorist attacks.

China warns Nobel: Giving peace prize to a Chinese dissident will hurt ties with Norway

China warns Nobel official: Don’t honor dissident

OSLO, Norway – The director of the Norwegian Nobel Institute says a high-ranking Chinese official has warned him that giving the peace prize this year to a Chinese dissident would harm relations between Norway and China.
Geir Lundestad, who is also the secretary of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, says Chinese … Read more »»».

Shimla welcomes heritage train on World Tourism Day

SHIMLA -In an initiative of promoting tourism and to celebrate the World Tourism Day, students of Shimla arranged a special welcoming event for tourists who travelled by the Kalka-Shimla heritage toy the train.

The students from a private college gathered at the heritage railway station and welcomed tourists with garlands in conventional manner.

“We are actually accommodating … Original source on Gaea Times at : Shimla welcomes heritage train on World Tourism Day.

Premature Brit baby survives after being kept warm in bubble wrap bag

LONDON – A premature British baby who was on the verge of dying survived after being kept warm in a bubble wrap bag.

Lexi Lacey weighed just 14oz when she was born at 26 weeks. The average weight of a full-term child, born after 37 weeks, is 7lb 6oz.

Parents Chelsea Rowberry, 17, and Lee Lacey, 24, …. Original source  : Premature Brit baby survives after being kept warm in bubble wrap bag.

‘Britain’s unluckiest bride’ hospitalized twice before having rings stolen

LONDON – A 37-year-old bride has been dubbed Britain’s unluckiest bride after she was rushed to hospital twice on her wedding day, had to abandon her dream honeymoon and had her wedding and engagement rings stolen.

Yvonne Wilson, a beauty therapist, began feeling ill during the ceremony as she married groom Dennis, at a luxury hotel.

After …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Britain’s unluckiest bride’ hospitalized twice before having rings stolen.

Now, a bikini-clad women’s ‘horse race’ straight out of the stables!

GOLD COAST – The Gold Coast in Australia is set to hold its first bikini-clad women race on the racecourse, which will become an annual event at the race meeting of the summer season.

The Gold Coast Turf Club came up with the plan, which will see up to 150 women, who must wear bikinis and … Read more >>.

Heels shaped like woman’s legs up for grabs

LONDON – An Israeli shoe designer has created a range of heels – with one pair shaped like a woman’s legs.

Other pairs are based on banana skins and catapults.

Kobi Levi, who crafts the shoes from leather, wood and metal, and exhibits them around the world, makes them according to his own shoe size.

“I work on … Original article on : Heels shaped like woman’s legs up for grabs.

French politician Rachida Dati says “fellatio” comment was slip of tongue

MELBOURNE – Former French justice minister Rachida Dati has said the reason the word inflation came out as fellatio during her talk, was because she was speaking too fast.

Dati, 44, laughed at the mistake she had made on Canal Plus television during a radio interview.

“I just spoke too quickly but, well, if that lets everybody …. Read the original article  : French politician Rachida Dati says “fellatio” comment was slip of tongue.

Cadbury’s drop iconic ‘glass and a half’ slogan

LONDON – Chocolate giant Cadbury’s has dropped the iconic “glass and a half” slogan from their wrappers.

Each bar of Dairy Milk now has the words: “The equivalent of 426ml of fresh liquid milk in every 227g of milk chocolate.”

Although Cadbury’s has kept the picture of a glass and a half of milk on the packs, … Read more : Cadbury’s drop iconic ‘glass and a half’ slogan.

FBI wants right to tap texts, emails and websites under proposed new bill

WASHINGTON – A new Bill proposed to be introduced in the United States Congress in 2011, would reportedly allow the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to tap text messages, emails and networking websites.

According to The Telegraph, the FBI has said that extremists and drug cartels are increasingly communicating online rather than using telephones, leaving [..] Read the original article: here.

42 percent of UK teenage girls ‘feel unsafe at night’ out of their houses

LONDON – About 42 percent of teenage girls in some of the Britain’s biggest cities feel unsafe to go out their houses after evening, according to study by children’s charity Plan UK.

According to the BBC, the same percentage of 600 teenagers in between the age group of 13-18 years said they knew someone who had …. Read the original article  : 42 percent of UK teenage girls ‘feel unsafe at night’ out of their houses.

U.N. denies appointing Earth’s ‘first contact’ for aliens

WASHINGTON – The United Nations has dismissed reports that it is set to appoint an obscure Malaysian astrophysicist to act as Earth’s first contact for any aliens that may come visiting.

London’s Sunday Times earlier reported that Mazlan Othman, the head of the U.N.’s little-known Office for Outer Space Affairs (Unoosa), is set to describe her …. Source  : U.N. denies appointing Earth’s ‘first contact’ for aliens.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-il’s youngest son ‘made military general’

SEOUL – North Korean leader Kim Jong-il’s youngest son, Kim Jong-un, has been promoted as a military general, the clearest sign yet that he is in line to succeed his father as the country’s leader.

The appointment came hours after delegates of the ruling Workers’ Party arrived in the North Korean capital, Pyongyang, on Monday.

Jong-il’s …. Original article  : North Korean leader Kim Jong-il’s youngest son ‘made military general’.

German musician performs in 8 countries in 24hrs to enter record books

LONDON – A 34-year-old German musician gave concerts in eight countries this weekend within 24 hours in an attempt to break a world record.

Vicente Patiz started from northwestern German city of Oberhausen on Saturday and then drove more than 600 miles to give more concerts in Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, France, Switzerland and Liechtenstein, concluding … Read this article on Gaea Times at : German musician performs in 8 countries in 24hrs to enter record books.

US women made less progress in management compared to their male counterparts

NEW YORK – Women in the United States have made have made little progress in the field of management, even in the boom years before the financial crisis, according to a G.A.O. report to be released on Tuesday by the Government Accountability Office.

According to The New York Times, women accounted for about 40 percent …. Original article  : US women made less progress in management compared to their male counterparts.

US soldier in custody after fatal shootings of 2 American personnel in Iraq

US soldier held in slayings of 2 GIs in Iraq

BAGHDAD – An American serviceman is being held in Iraq in connection with the fatal shootings of two soldiers and the wounding of another following an apparent argument, the U.S. military said Tuesday.
A statement by U.S. forces said Spc. Neftaly Platero was in custody during the …. Original source  : US soldier in custody after fatal shootings of 2 American personnel in Iraq.

TV drove viewers to Internet to explore Obama-Muslim rumours

WASHINGTON – A new study has shown that online searches about the Obama-Muslim rumour spiked Americans’ interest on days when the topic was heavily covered on national television networks, and that searches declined on days when there was less coverage.

“With all the attention given to blogs and online news, some people have suggested that the …. Original source  : TV drove viewers to Internet to explore Obama-Muslim rumours.

Hitler was a great man, says Holocaust denier David Irving

LONDON – On his shocking tour of former Nazi death camps in Poland, controversial British historian David Irving praised Adolf Hitler as ‘a great man’ and his Gestapo as ‘fabulous policeman’.

Irving said Hitler was not ‘immoral’ but was let down by lesser people in the Nazi regime, according to an undercover report by Italian …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Hitler was a great man, says Holocaust denier David Irving.

US, NATO Afghan troop pullout may hurt Pakistan, India: Obama

ISLAMABAD – US President Barack Obama has warned that neither Pakistan nor India would be “better off” if the US and NATO forces are pulled out of Afghanistan.

“I don’t know anybody who has examined the region who thinks that if we completely pulled out of Afghanistan, the Karzai regime collapsed, Kabul was overrun once again … Read more »»».

Here’s what beer tastes like in outer space

WASHINGTON – If you love beer and fascinated by travelling in space, then here’s your lucky chance- testing on a space beer is scheduled to begin in November.

While NASA has a strict no-alcohol policy, a nonprofit research group called Astronauts4Hire is doing the honours aboard Zero Gravity Corp.’s airplane, which simulates the microgravity environment of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Here’s what beer tastes like in outer space.

US blames ‘communication breakdown’ for attacks against Pak

ISLAMABAD – US military chief Admiral Mike Mullen has reportedly called his Pakistani counterpart to discuss the series of attacks allegedly by the US-led International Security Assistance Force against Pakistan during the last three days, and assured that him that Washington … Read more >>>.

Analysts predict turbulence during N.Korean succession battle

WASHINGTON – With North Korean leader Kim Jong-il appointing his youngest son as an army general, and giving him his first known official title in an apparent sign that he is being groomed as the country’s next leader, analysts have warned of possible political …. Source  : Analysts predict turbulence during N.Korean succession battle.

Bruni flouts 200-yr-old Paris rule banning women from wearing trousers

LONDON – France’s First Lady Carla Bruni is said to have flouted a 200-year-old rule banning women from wearing trousers – by sporting them at the Elysee Palace in Paris.

According to a new book, which traces the history of the garment, a police ruling that bans women from wearing …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bruni flouts 200-yr-old Paris rule banning women from wearing trousers.

Stockholm hotel slammed over complimentary sex toys in room

STOCKHOLM – A hotel in Stockholm, Sweden, which offers guests complimentary sex toys in their rooms, has been criticised by the police for “glorifying” the sex trade.

According to the Svenska Dagbladet daily, the Berns Hotel in central Stockholm wanted to expand the range of items it included in the room price.

Besides the standard coffee and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Stockholm hotel slammed over complimentary sex toys in room.

‘Dead’ man taken to morgue found breathing

LONDON – An unnamed man who was pronounced dead by a South West ambulance crew was later discovered breathing by an undertaker, it has emerged.

The patient was seen by paramedics who ran a series of checks before declaring him dead and the body was taken to a morgue.

However, when he was spotted by an undertaker …. Original article  : ‘Dead’ man taken to morgue found breathing.

China never considered scrapping death penalty for corruption crimes, claims lawmaker

BEIJING – A Chinese legislator, Chen Sixi, has said that the country has never considered scrapping the death penalty for those convicted of corruption in the draft amendment to the Criminal Law.

According to Xinhua, Chen said that corruption-related crimes have seriously damaged …. Source  : China never considered scrapping death penalty for corruption crimes, claims lawmaker.

Krishna slams Qureshi over his Kashmir remarks at UN General Assembly

NEW YORK – External Affairs Minister S M Krishna has slammed his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi over his statement on Jammu and Kashmir at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Describing his comments as “unacceptable” and “untenable” besides being a ploy to divert attention from the internal turmoil … Read more »».

Muslim women who wear headscarves face workplace discrimination in US

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that Muslim women who wear headscarves face workplace discrimination in the US.

Professor Sonia Ghumman from the University of Hawaii at Manoa Shidler College of Business has completed an intensive marketing research on the effects of Muslim women who …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Muslim women who wear headscarves face workplace discrimination in US.

National Highway gets new route after rains damage roads in Nainital

NAINITAL – National Highway 87 in Nainital got a new route after landslides and heavy rains badly damaged the road.

The road had caved in more than twenty meters below and traffic had been stopped for several days.

The state Public Welfare Department (PWD) has deployed engineers …. Read the original article  : National Highway gets new route after rains damage roads in Nainital.

Naxals extend deadline for releasing abducted Chhattisgarh cops

RAIPUR – Maoists on Tuesday night extended the 48-hours-long deadline by another 24 hours for the release of four policemen held captive by them in the jungles of Chhattisgarh.

In exchange of the four policemen the Maoists had earlier set a deadline of 48 hours to consider their … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Naxals extend deadline for releasing abducted Chhattisgarh cops.

“Iranian blogfather” sentenced to over 19 yrs imprisonment, claims human rights activist

TEHRAN – An Iranian court has sentenced “Iranian blogfather,” Hossein Derakhshan, to more than 19 years of imprisonment for “co-operating with hostile countries and insulting religious figures,” according to a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : “Iranian blogfather” sentenced to over 19 yrs imprisonment, claims human rights activist.

Pushy parents ‘risk damaging kids’ health’

LONDON – Pushy parents risk damaging their children’s health if their love is conditional on achieving success, it has been claimed.

Rod Jaques of the English Institute of Sport said that in some case a parent’s love could appear … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pushy parents ‘risk damaging kids’ health’.

Jaipur citizens protest over supply of rotten grains

JAIPUR – People of Jaipur staged a protest at the Food Corporation of India (FCI) godown demanding the distribution of tonnes of unused food grains.

Carrying placards and banners the protestors raised slogans in front of the godown.

Some social workers also joined in support the protestors.

“Why don’t they give it at a …. Original article  : Jaipur citizens protest over supply of rotten grains.

US apologises to Praful Patel for detaining him at Chicago airport

NEW DELHI – The United States has apologised to Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel for detaining and grilling him at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago airport.

US Secretary of Homeland Security, Janet Napolitano, said the US will do whatever was required to make necessary amends to prevent any such incidents …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US apologises to Praful Patel for detaining him at Chicago airport.

Bihar polls notification for second-phase issued

PATNA – Notification for the second phase of the six-phased State Assembly elections in Bihar has been issued.

Forty-five out of 243 Assembly constituencies will go to polls in the first phase on October 24.

The last day for filing of nominations for the second phase is October 6 and scrutiny …. Read the original article  : Bihar polls notification for second-phase issued.

West Bengal CM accuses central government for not releasing NREGA funds

KOLKATA – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee has alleged that the Central Government has not release the funds due to the State under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act.

Addressing a public meeting here on Tuesday, Bhattacharjee said: The state is due a sum of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : West Bengal CM accuses central government for not releasing NREGA funds.

German Minister discusses emerging bilateral investment opportunities in Chennai

CHENNAI – David McAllister, Minister-President of Lower Saxony, currently on a visit to India, discussed emerging bilateral investment opportunities at a seminar here on Tuesday.

Speaking to the media, McAllister said that the firms from Lower Saxony are keen to invest in India as they consider it to be one of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pan-Islamists plan protests at ‘American slave’ Musharraf’s rally in Birmingham

LONDON – Protesters from all across the United Kingdom are expected to attend a demonstration in Birmingham at a rally organised by former President of Pakistan- Pervez Musharraf- as he aims to revive his political career by launching his ‘All Pakistan Muslim …. Source article  : Pan-Islamists plan protests at ‘American slave’ Musharraf’s rally in Birmingham.

Women prefer modern ‘gentlemen’ who text regularly and take out rubbish

LONDON – A new survey has revealed that women of today no longer expect a gentleman to pay for dinner, instead they prefer men who text regularly and also take out the rubbish.

Pulling out chairs and opening doors once used to be the traits of a gentleman, but now making a cup of tea for …. Read the original article  : here.

Britain’s first mag dedicated to women with real curves

LONDON – A magazine in Britain has become the first to dedicate and feature voluptuous women in its pages.

The mag, Just As Beautiful, aimed at women between a size 14 and 20, refuses to use models smaller than a size 14, and it features articles on fashion, cooking and lifestyle, but none on dieting.

When it …. Source  : Britain’s first mag dedicated to women with real curves.

Lying creates desire to wash mouth

WASHINGTON – Apparently your mom was right when she threatened to wash your mouth with soap if you lied. According to a study, lying creates a desire to clean the “dirty” body part.

“The references to ‘dirty hands’ or ‘dirty mouths’ in everyday language suggest that people think about abstract issues of moral purity in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Lying creates desire to wash mouth.

Shahzad contacted Pak Taliban to report failed Times Square bombing attempt

NEW YORK – Failed Times Square bomber Faisal Shahzad had returned to his home in Connecticut, and contacted the Taliban to inform one of his handlers about his act in New York, new court documents have revealed.

The documents submitted by prosecutors said that in the period leading up to the bombing attempt, the Pakistani-born US …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Shahzad contacted Pak Taliban to report failed Times Square bombing attempt.

Man claimed wife beating was ‘traditional Turkish dance’

MELBOURNE – A New Zealand kebab shop owner has been convicted of assaulting his wife after the judge dismissed his claims they were performing a traditional Turkish dance with violent-looking moves.

Allaetin Can was taken into custody in August after an onlooker reported he was attacking his wife outside their takeaway in the North Island town … Read more »».

CIA to continue drone attacks in Pak after getting 100% results: Leon Panetta

LAHORE – Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director Leon Panetta has reportedly said that the CIA will continue staging drone attacks in Pakistan, a private TV channel reported.

In his meeting with the Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) Director General Shuja Pasha, Panetta said that the CIA was achieving 100 per cent results through the drone attacks, even …. Source  : CIA to continue drone attacks in Pak after getting 100% results: Leon Panetta.

Dikshit inaugurates 400 KV power sub-station in North West Delhi

NEW DELHI – Inaugurating a 400 KV power sub-station at Mundka in North-West Delhi on Thursday, Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit said that her government is committed to provide un-interrupted power supply in the national capital, and added that the inverter is now part of history.

Stating that there has been a great improvement in the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Dikshit inaugurates 400 KV power sub-station in North West Delhi.

Modern Turkey founder Ataturk’s yacht seized over vice ring allegations

LONDON – The Turkish Government has seized a state yacht that was once used by Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, following media reports that a vice ring had used the vessel to throw sex parties with prostitutes.

Turkey bought the Savarona in 1938, and Ataturk spent a few weeks aboard the yacht, but …. Original source  : Modern Turkey founder Ataturk’s yacht seized over vice ring allegations.

‘Horny ghost’ called Kevin spooks Oz woman

MELBOURNE – A Northern Territory woman has claimed that a horny ghost is haunting her home.

Jennifer Mills-Young has said that the ghost, named Kevin, once tried to drag her out of bed in the middle of the night.

“I was asleep. I woke up when someone grabbed my wrist,” the Daily Telegraph quoted her as …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Horny ghost’ called Kevin spooks Oz woman.

BJP chief Gadkari appeals for peace, harmony following Ayodhya verdict

MUMBAI – Ahead of Ayodhya verdict, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Nitin Gadkari here on Thursday, appealed for peace and harmony and asked party workers to ensure law and order once the verdict is announced.

“I appeal to BJP activists to honour the court verdict. I … Read this article on Gaea Times at : BJP chief Gadkari appeals for peace, harmony following Ayodhya verdict.

Gujarat Assembly Speaker Ashok Bhat passes away

GANDHINAGAR – Gujarat Assembly Speaker and senior BJP leader Ashok Bhat passed away last night at a hospital in Ahmedabad.

Bhat was 71 years old and died due to multiple organ failure.

Bhat was undergoing a treatment at the SAL hospital for last 20 days for complications in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gujarat Assembly Speaker Ashok Bhat passes away.

Soon, fly on ‘hover-plane’ that combines propellers with fixed wings

MELBOURNE – European company Eurocopter has unveiled a new high-speed ‘hover-plane’ that combines helicopter propellers with fixed wings.

The revolutionary winged helicopter is called the X3 Hybrid Helicraft.

The half-plane, half-helicopter design aims to overcome the obstacles of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Soon, fly on ‘hover-plane’ that combines propellers with fixed wings.

“There is no moderate Taliban”: Musharraf

LONDON – Former Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf has said that the United States should continue its war against terror in Afghanistan, instead of going for negotiations with the so-called “moderate Taliban.”

Musharraf insisted the US and its allies should finish the job in Afghanistan, urging them …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : “There is no moderate Taliban”: Musharraf.

Mozambique President gets ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan

NEW DELHI – Mozambique President Armando Guebuza, who is on a six-day visit of India, was on Thursday accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.

President Pratibha Patil and Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh were present on the occasion along with other dignitaries.

Talking to reporters, President Guebuza said: “India and Mozambique are …. Source article  : Mozambique President gets ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Rapid urbanisation leading to shrinking of Kashmir’s agriculture land

SRINAGAR – The rapid increase in urbanisation and allied infrastructure development activities are causing a shrinking of agricultural land in the Kashmir Valley.

Farmers fear that this growing trend of private builders to purchase farmland for building residential colonies would lead to a devastating food crisis in that Kashmir Valley in the coming years.

Though the law … Read more : Rapid urbanisation leading to shrinking of Kashmir’s agriculture land.

Commonwealth Games: Queen’s Baton reaches Delhi

NEW DELHI – The Queen’s Baton Relay (QBR) of the XIXth Commonwealth Games reached host city New Delhi on Thursday after completing a 20,000 kilometer long journey, passing through all 28 Indian states and seven Union Territories.

The Baton reached the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee headquarters situated opposite Jantar Mantar on Jai Singh Road, where it …. Source article  : Commonwealth Games: Queen’s Baton reaches Delhi.

Bill Clinton still most popular politician in America

WASHINGTON – Twelve years after leaving the presidency, former President Bill Clinton is still the most popular politician in America.

According to a new Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll, 55 percent of those polled held a positive view of Clinton, while only 23 percent had a negative view, the best ratio of any of the politicians … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Bill Clinton still most popular politician in America.

20 Britons training in Pak to launch 26/11 Mumbai-style attacks in UK

LONDON – At least 20 Brit Muslims are reportedly undergoing terrorist training in Pakistan to launch 26/11 Mumbai-style shootings and suicide attacks in the United Kingdom.

According to the Telegraph, the men, who all hold British passports, are said to …. Read the original article  : 20 Britons training in Pak to launch 26/11 Mumbai-style attacks in UK.

“No regrets” over ‘adequate’ security provided to Benazir: Musharraf

LONDON – While preparing to officially launch his new party and rejoin Pakistan’s turbulent politics, former president Pervez Musharraf has insisted he has “no regrets” about the security provided to Benazir Bhutto on the day of her assassination. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : “No regrets” over ‘adequate’ security provided to Benazir: Musharraf.

Doda District police organises ‘March for Peace’ rally

DODA – Over 1400 students and children took part in a ‘March for Peace’ rally organised by Doda District police officials here on Wednesday.

The race was organised under the direction of Director General of Police (DGP) of Jammu and Kashmir, Kuldeep Khoda.

Three first comers were awarded cash and fifty … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Doda District police organises ‘March for Peace’ rally.