Breaking News – Monthly Newsletter December 2010

Obama checking in: Delhi’s Maurya swarms with commandos

NEW DELHI – Not an inch of the ITC Maurya Sheraton will be without surveillance when US President Barack Obama arrives for a two-night stay. The luxury hotel is swarming with Delhi Police commandos a week before he checks in with wife Michelle.

Obama arrives for a Nov 7-9 stay at the Presidential Suite of … Read more »».

Malaysian PM assures Indians to resolve problems

KLANG – Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak has said that his government would continue to pay “serious attention” to problems faced by the ethnic Indian community.

His assurance Sunday night came four days after the visit of Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh who had expressed confidence about Malaysia’s ability to carry along all ethnic … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Malaysian PM assures Indians to resolve problems.

Malik’s one-week deadline to fight corruption like terrorism in Pak

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Interior Minister Rehman Malik has given heads of various departments under his ministry a one week deadline to end corruption.

“We have to uproot this menace of corruption and I give one week to all heads of departments to take necessary actions in this regard,” the Nation quoted Malik, as saying.

“The government …. Source article  : Malik’s one-week deadline to fight corruption like terrorism in Pak.

Suicide bombing kills two policemen in Pak

ISLAMABAD – At least two policemen were killed and 10 others injured in a suicide bomb attack in Swabi district in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Monday morning.

According to the Nation, five unidentified militants were involved in attack outside the Shah Mansoor compound of police offices and residences in Swabi, 100 kilometres northwest of Islamabad.

One … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Suicide bombing kills two policemen in Pak.

Parcel bomb case: Yemen woman terror suspect released on bail

LONDON – Authorities in Yemen have released the 22-year-old woman suspected of posting two parcel bombs that were found on cargo planes in the UK and Dubai.

Reports said Hanan al Samawi was bailed on the condition that she presents herself to officials “whenever requested”.

An engineering student, al Samawi was detained along with her mother after … Original article on : Parcel bomb case: Yemen woman terror suspect released on bail.

Adarsh Society scam: Mukherjee, Antony meet Sonia; discuss Chavan’s fate

NEW DELHI – Congress President Sonia Gandhi held consultations with senior party leaders on Monday on the fate of Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan over the Adarsh Cooperative Housing Society scam in Mumbai.

Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, Defence Minister A K Antony and senior party leader Ahmed Patel met Gandhi and are understood to have discussed … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Adarsh Society scam: Mukherjee, Antony meet Sonia; discuss Chavan’s fate.

Photog digs up carrot that looks like a foot!

LONDON – Photographer Stuart Boulton has dug up an unusual looking carrot that has the shape of a foot complete with five toes in his allotment in Darlington, County Durham.

The weird vegetable was a foot-long.

“I don’t know what caused it to grow the way it has,” The Sun quoted Boulton as saying.

“Someone told me if … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Photog digs up carrot that looks like a foot!.

‘Global warming likely to bring more floods, droughts in Pak’

KARACHI – The recent floods in Pakistan were due to global warming and a change in extreme weather conditions, which may cause more floods and droughts in the country in future, World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Pakistan Coordinator Nasir Panhwar has said.

Panhwar emphasized that deforestation, burning of fossil fuels, unplanned development in coastal …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Global warming likely to bring more floods, droughts in Pak’.

Musharraf seeks Pak-Americans’ support for political comeback

ORLANDO – Former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf has reached out to his country’s expatriates in the United States in his effort to stage a political comeback.

Addressing a crowd of about 300 people in Florida, Musharraf said that he wanted to bring an economic recovery to Pakistan.

The Florida chapter of the Friends of Pakistan First … Read more : Musharraf seeks Pak-Americans’ support for political comeback.

Al-Qaeda bombs too sophisticated to be detected by x-rays, says Brit counter-terrorism expert

LONDON – A senior British counter-terrorism official has said that the al-Qaida bomb inside a computer printer discovered at East Midlands airport on Friday, was too sophisticated to be detected by the x-rays.

“One of the most sophisticated we’ve seen … the naked eye won’t pick it up, experienced bomb officers did not see it, …. Read the original article  : Al-Qaeda bombs too sophisticated to be detected by x-rays, says Brit counter-terrorism expert.

Diana’s school notes found in rubbish pile

LONDON – School notes scribbled by the late Princess Diana when she was 15 have been found in a pile of rubbish, and could could fetch up to 1,500 pounds.

The young Diana Spencer wrote in 1977 about Shakespeare’s “genious” on a copy of his play “The Tempest” that she read for an O-level she … Read more >>>.

Bihar polls: Maoists trigger blasts in Jamui, BSF retaliates

PATNA – Maoists triggered off a blast in Betia forest area near Jamui district in the early hours of polling for 42 Assembly constituencies in Bihar today.

Director General of Police Neelmani said Maoists had triggered a blast near a bridge on the Chakai-Jamui main road in Betia jungle.

The Maoists fled after BSF commandos …. Source article  : Bihar polls: Maoists trigger blasts in Jamui, BSF retaliates.

Dubai parcel bomb was flown in on two passenger planes

LONDON – One of the two bombs posted from Yemen last week was transported on two passenger planes before being seized in Dubai, it was revealed today.

The Daily Mail quoted Qatar Airways as saying that the bomb was carried on an Airbus A320 from Yemeni capital Sanaa to Doha where it was then transferred … Original article on : Dubai parcel bomb was flown in on two passenger planes.

Indian-origin US student linked to suicide case never transmitted gay-sex video, says lawyer

NEW YORK – The lawyer for an Indian origin student in New Jersey university who has been charged with invasion of privacy for secretly filming gay-sex footage of roommate Tyler Clementi, has claimed that he and his co-accused student were the only ones to have seen the footage for a few seconds and had never … Read more : Indian-origin US student linked to suicide case never transmitted gay-sex video, says lawyer.

Army personnel in Bangalore set record of carrying 48 persons on one bike

BANGALORE – Indian Army personnel broke a world record by being the only team in the world to cross a staggering distance of 1000 meters carrying 48 persons on a single moving 500 cc Royal Enfield motorcycle here over the weekend.

The motorcycle team of the Indian Military Corps, ‘SHWET ASHWA’ set this record on Saturday … Original source on Gaea Times at : Army personnel in Bangalore set record of carrying 48 persons on one bike.

20,000 kg of adulterated sweets confiscated in Gorakhpur

GORAKHPUR – Uttar Pradesh Police and Department of Food and Civil Supplies officials seized around 20,000 kilograms of adulterated sweets from Uttar Pradesh’s Gorakhpur District.

The Food and Civil Supplies Department raided sweets shops across the city, forcing them to shut down on Sunday.

“This is not pure sweetmeat as it was not cleared by any …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 20,000 kg of adulterated sweets confiscated in Gorakhpur.

Chidambaram reviews security in Kashmir’s Baramulla town

SRINAGAR – Union Home Minister P Chidambaram on Sunday visited Baramulla town in north Kashmir on Sunday to review the security situation there.

He also chaired a security meeting of senior police, CRPF and army officials and held separate meetings with Chief Minaiter Omar Abdullah, local politicians, students, traders, members of Pahari Cultural Forum and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Six militants killed in US drone strikes in North Waziristan

MIRANSHAH – At least six militants were killed and two others injured in a US drone attack in the tribal belt of North Waziristan in Pakistan on Monday.

According to the Dawn, the target of the attack was a house used by militants in Haider Khel village, about 25 kilometers east of Miranshah, the main town …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Wellington is the ‘coolest little capital’

NEW DELHI – Wellington-the Kiwi capital-has been named the ‘coolest little capital in the world’ by travel guide publisher Lonely Planet.

It has also ranked Wellington as the 4th top city in the world to visit in 2011.

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key, who also serves as tourism minister, has welcomed the tributes.

He said that Wellington …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Magistrate puts man behind bars for calling him ‘mate’

MELBOURNE – A magistrate reportedly put a man behind bars after he called him “mate” during a hearing in the courtroom last week.

Thomas John Collins had twice called Magistrate Matthew McLaughlin “mate” even after an objection from the latter.

McLaughlin had ordered Collin to address him as “sir or your honour”, to which the defendant had … Read more »»».

Seventeen killed in road mishap in Anand

ANAND – At least seventeen people were killed and three others injured when a truck carrying them overturned at Tarapur taluka in Gujarat’s Anand District today.

According to sources, the sand-laden truck overturned near Indranaj village, killing 17 people on the spot.

The injured have been admitted to a nearby hospital. (ANI)
…. Source article  : Seventeen killed in road mishap in Anand.

Two militants killed in Kashmir encounter

SRINAGAR – Two militants were killed in an encounter with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir’s Shopian District this morning.

According to sources, the encounter took place when security forces confronted the militants.

The identity of the slain militants could not be ascertained and the search operation was continuing when reports last came in. (ANI)
… Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Two militants killed in Kashmir encounter.

Babita Ganguly arrested in Madan Tamang murder case

DARJEELING – Babita Ganguly, one of the 30 accused in the Gorkha leader Madan Tamang murder case, was arrested here on Monday.

Ganguly, one of two members of the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha’s woman wing, was named in the chargesheet filed by Darjeeling police for the lynching of the Akhil Bharatiya Gorkha League president.

Babita was arrested from …. Read the original article  : Babita Ganguly arrested in Madan Tamang murder case.

India launches its first South Pole expedition

NEW DELHI – Union Science and Technology Minister Prithviraj Chavan launched India’s first ever- South Pole expedition here.

The expedition was launched via video-conferencing on Monday.

An eight-member team led by the Director of National Centre for Antarctic and Ocean Research, Rasik Ravindra, is to leave ‘Maitri,’ the Indian station on the Antarctica, for the South Pole [..] Read the original article: here.

Brit lesbian cop hangs herself after being ‘bullied for her appearance’

LONDON – A lesbian police officer in Britain committed suicide after she felt that her superiors bullied her over her sexuality, picked on her and ostracised her over her appearance.

Lara Goldie, 28, who had sported short, spiky hair while training at the Metropolitan Police College in Hendon, north London, left a four-page suicide note, in …. Read the original article  : Brit lesbian cop hangs herself after being ‘bullied for her appearance’.

Rabindra Sangeet exponent Kalim Sharafi dead

DHAKA – Kalim Sharafi, known for singing Rabindranath Tagore’s songs in Bangladesh and India, died at his residence here Tuesday. He was 85, a media report said.

Born in Birbhum, now in West Bengal, India, Sharafi participated in the Quit India Movement in 1942.
He received the first Rabindra Award 2010 for his contribution in [..] Read the original article: here.

Earlier flight might have been dry run for parcel bomb plotters

WASHINGTON – American intelligence officials who tracked several shipments of compact discs and other household goods from Yemen to Chicago, now believe that the parcels containing explosive material might have been a test run for a terrorist attack.

According to the New York Times, two American officials believe that the shipments, whose hour-by-hour locations could be …. Original source  : Earlier flight might have been dry run for parcel bomb plotters.

Sonia Gandhi silent on Maharashtra housing scam, CWG

NEW DELHI – Congress President Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday steered clear of two raging controversies- the financial irregularities in the Commonwealth Games and the alleged involvement of Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan in the Adarsh Housing project in Mumbai.

Addressing a meeting of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), which is being held after 13 years, … Read more »»».

UPA Government must be trusted on Kashmir issue: Sonia Gandhi

NEW DELHI – Urging those dissatisfied in Jammu and Kashmir with the UPA government, Congress President Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday said trust must be reported in the latter government to enable it to build a future for the former.

“We are faced with a new situation in Jammu and Kashmir, events of last few months …. Original source  : UPA Government must be trusted on Kashmir issue: Sonia Gandhi.

Sonia Gandhi says Naxalism is biggest threat to internal security of India:

NEW DELHI – Congress President Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday said that naxalism is the biggest threat to internal security of India.

Addressing a meeting of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), which is being held after 13 years, Gandhi said: “Naxalism or left-wing extremism is serious internal security threat. The government is firm to tame … Read more : Sonia Gandhi says Naxalism is biggest threat to internal security of India:.

Now, Palin calls reporters child-molesting, puppy-kicking, chain smoking porn producers!

WASHINGTON – Former Alaska governor Sarah Palin has slammed a report by Politico and called it “crap”, which claimed that top Republicans wants to stop her from winning the presidential nomination out of a fear that she would lose badly in the general election in 2012.

“I don’t think the paper that we just printed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Now, Palin calls reporters child-molesting, puppy-kicking, chain smoking porn producers!.

Baby dino footprints discovered near Denver

WASHINGTON – Paleontologists have once again discovered infant dinosaur footprints in the foothills west of Denver, near the town of Morrison.

The discovery was made by Morrison Natural History Museum staff.

Dating from the Late Jurassic, some 148 million years ago, these tracks were made before the Rocky Mountains rose, when Morrison was a broad savanna full … Original source on Gaea Times at : Baby dino footprints discovered near Denver.

Kate Middleton’s parents attend shooting weekend at Balmoral

LONDON – Prince William and Kate Middleton are poised to announce their engagement after a marathon eight-year courtship – at least that’s what the latest hint suggests.

Middleton’s parents have just been guests at a private shooting party on the Queen’s Scottish estate – the invitation is the clearest sign yet that the prince and his … Read more : Kate Middleton’s parents attend shooting weekend at Balmoral.

‘Qaeda terror bombs 50 times more powerful than needed to blow hole in aircraft fuselage’

LONDON – The bombs smuggled in the cargo plane terror plot at East Midlands Airport and in Dubai reportedly contained explosives at least 50 times more powerful than required to blow a hole in an aircraft fuselage.

According to the Telegraph, experts in Germany said that the bombs contained at least 300 grams (10.58oz) of the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Qaeda terror bombs 50 times more powerful than needed to blow hole in aircraft fuselage’.

Frenchman who ‘heard Diana’s dying words’ exposed as a common thief

LONDON – A Frenchman who allegedly heard Princess Diana’s dying words and gave evidence in court as a key witness has been exposed as a career criminal.

Abdelatif Redjil, 54, who claims he held her hand as she repeated words like ‘My God, My God’ following a collision in the Alma Tunnel, was a key witness …. Original source  : Frenchman who ‘heard Diana’s dying words’ exposed as a common thief.

‘Contemporary art in Pakistan not here to stay’

KARACHI – Contemporary art in Pakistan was not here to stay, an eminent art critic said here.

Art critic Quddus Mirza said: “Contemporary art in Pakistan may stay or may not stay. In my opinion it will not stay.”
He was speaking at a panel discussion titled “Is contemporary art of Pakistan a starburst of …. Source  : ‘Contemporary art in Pakistan not here to stay’.

Kashmir separatists withdraw shutdown call on Diwali

SRINAGAR – Responding to the appeals of the Sikh community to allow Diwali celebrations, hardline Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Geelani Tuesday said there would be no protest shutdown in Kashmir Valley on Diwali.

Sikhs in the valley had appealed to the separatist leader not to announce any protest shutdown Friday so that the festival of …. Source article  : Kashmir separatists withdraw shutdown call on Diwali.

Josef Fritzl still ‘loves’ daughter he raped for 24 years

LONDON – Josef Fritzl, the man who raped his daughter Elisabeth for 24 years, says he still ‘loves’ his victim.

The 75-year-old blurted out the word just once about Elisabeth before changing the subject to talk about his fantasies of starting life anew with his ex-wife, reports the Daily Mail.

The man shocked reporters from Germany’s top … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Josef Fritzl still ‘loves’ daughter he raped for 24 years.

University of South Carolina offers Lady Gaga course

LONDON – Now you can enroll in a course on Lady Gaga at a US university.

A sociology professor at the University of South Carolina is offering a course titled ‘Lady Gaga and the Sociology of Fame’, reports the Telegraph.

“We’re going to look at Lady Gaga as a social event. Other people say that Gaga’s …. Original source  : University of South Carolina offers Lady Gaga course.

Five reasons why Democrats could still turn poll odds and hold House

WASHINGTON – Though polling data suggests that the Republicans may win the House of Representatives on Tuesday, the Democrats might still be in a position to turn the odds to their favour and hold the House.

Evidence suggests that the Republicans will win the House in a robust sort of way, given the generic ballot … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Five reasons why Democrats could still turn poll odds and hold House.

India baiter Dan Burton all set to head S. Asia sub-committee in US Congress

WASHINGTON – Leading India baiter Dan Burton, the U.S. Republican Representative for Indiana’s 5th congressional district, is all set to become the chairman of the House Sub-Committee of the on the Middle East and South Asia of the House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee.

Burton, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bomb blast damages railway track in Pakistan

NAWABSHAH – A powerful blast has partially damaged a railway track and affected train service in Nawabshah city in Pakistan’s Sindh province on Wednesday.

According to the Dawn, another bomb was also planted near the track, which has been neutralized by a bomb disposal squad.

The explosion occurred on the …. Source article  : Bomb blast damages railway track in Pakistan.

Bush almost dumped “Darth Vader of administration” Cheney as running mate

WASHINGTON – Former US President George W Bush has revealed in his memoir “Decision Points” that he considered dumping Vice President Dick Cheney, who was considered as the “Darth Vader of the administration,” from his 2004 re-election to dispel the myths about … Read : Bush almost dumped “Darth Vader of administration” Cheney as running mate.

Bush had ’sickening feeling’ over failure to find weapons of mass destruction in Iraq

WASHINGTON – Former US President George W Bush has revealed in his memoir “Decision Points” that he still has “a sickening feeling” about the failure to find weapons of mass destruction in Iraq.

According to the BBC, Bush defends his decision to invade …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bush had ’sickening feeling’ over failure to find weapons of mass destruction in Iraq.

Romanian girl aged 10 gives birth to healthy baby in Spain

LONDON – A ten-year-old Romanian girl has become one of the world’s youngest mothers after she gave birth to a baby in a hospital in Spain.

The baby weighed 6lb 6oz when it was born last week at a hospital in Jerez de la Frontera, in the southern region of …. Source article  : Romanian girl aged 10 gives birth to healthy baby in Spain.

Prop 19 Results Announced

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- The proponents of Proposition 19 received a major setback when California voters rejected the proposal for legalization of marijuana-related activities, its cultivation and trade. Proposition 19, which was rejected yesterday would have allowed people aged 21 or more than that to possess up to one ounce of marijuana and at …. Source  : Prop 19 Results Announced.

Republicans capture control of House of Representatives, but not the Senate

WASHINGTON/NEW YORK – President Barack Obama was given a stern message by the American people on Tuesday when the Republicans,riding a wave of voter discontent, captured control of the House of Representatives, but fell short of capturing control of the U.S. Senate.

A Republican resurgence, propelled … Read : Republicans capture control of House of Representatives, but not the Senate.

Pak airports on high terror alert following foiled Al-Qaeda parcel bomb plot

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan government has reportedly issued a ‘high terror alert’ at all international airports in the country after the alleged Al-Qaeda plot of parcel bombs on two United States-bound flights was foiled by intelligence agencies.

The packages, which were being shipped by air from … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pak airports on high terror alert following foiled Al-Qaeda parcel bomb plot.

Hariprasad Chaurasia gets top French honour

NEW DELHI – Classical flute exponent Hariprasad Chaurasia will be conferred the Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, the highest civilian award in France, by the French government for his contribution to music Nov 9.

The award will be presented to the 72-year-old by French ambassador Jerome K. Bonnafont at a ceremony …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Hariprasad Chaurasia gets top French honour.

Women bring out rally in support of rights activist Sharmila Chanu in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – A women’s group in Bhubaneswar staged a protest in support of Manipur civil rights activist Sharmila Chanu, who completed ten years of fasting over a demand to repeal the controversial and draconian Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA).

Shouted anti- central government slogans and burning effigy …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Women bring out rally in support of rights activist Sharmila Chanu in Orissa.

Sarah Palin ‘not qualified’ to be the next US President: Levi Johnston

WASHINGTON – Levi Johnston has once again targeted Sarah Palin, saying he believes that the former Alaska governor is ‘not qualified’ to be the next President of the United States of America.

Johnston, who is plotting his own quest for public office in Wasilla, Alaska, … Read : Sarah Palin ‘not qualified’ to be the next US President: Levi Johnston.

India-U.S. to jointly work to grow their economies: Strobe Talbott

NEW DELHI – Strobe Talbott, former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, has said that India and the United States should work together to enhance their economic might through technological innovation.

Addressing a seminar, ‘Dialogue on …. Original source  : India-U.S. to jointly work to grow their economies: Strobe Talbott.

Indo-UK joint air drill concludes in West Midnapore

WEST MIDNAPORE – The joint air force drill between India and United Kingdom (UK) held under the banner of ‘Indradhanush’-III at Air Force Station Kalaikunda in West Bengal’s West Midnapore District concluded on Tuesday.

The Royal …. Source article  : Indo-UK joint air drill concludes in West Midnapore.

Sitaram Yechuri criticises Obama’s India visit

VIZAG – CPI (M) Politburo member Sitaram Yechuri has termed U.S. President Barack Obama’s forthcoming visit to India as a business tour, favorable only for the American economy.

Addressing a press conference here on Tuesday, Yechuri said: “Obama is … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sitaram Yechuri criticises Obama’s India visit.

Obama will not come in your way, police assure Mumbaikars

MUMBAI – Mumbai Police have given assurances that during US President Barack Obama’s visit to the city, Mumbaikars will not be barred from accessing the roads used by his motorcade.

Rajnish Seth, Joint Commissioner of Police, (Law and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama will not come in your way, police assure Mumbaikars.

Disappointed Indian Sikhs urge Obama to at least visit Delhi Gurudwara

NEW DELHI – The news that the Golden Temple in Amritsar will not figure on U.S. President Barack Obama’s itinerary has disappinted many Sikh leaders in the region, but they have reportedly urged the U.S. leader to at least … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Disappointed Indian Sikhs urge Obama to at least visit Delhi Gurudwara.

Navy to submit Adarsh Society scam final report

MUMBAI – The Indian Navy will submit a final report on the Adarsh Housing Society scam based on its internal inquiry on Wednesday.

Earlier, the navy had informed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) that it had … Read : Navy to submit Adarsh Society scam final report.

NATO helicopters violate Pak airspace yet again despite formal apology

LAHORE – Despite assuring Pakistan of stopping further intrusions into its territory, NATO aircraft once again breached the country’s airspace close to the Afghan border.

According to the Daily Times, NATO helicopters violated Pakistan’s border limits in the areas of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NATO helicopters violate Pak airspace yet again despite formal apology.

Sarkozy stops of short of committing French help to UK over Falklands

LONDON – French President Nicolas Sarkozy has ducked out of vowing to send in a French aircraft carrier if Britain needs its to defend the Falklands.

Asked in London if he would be prepared to despatch his navy’s Charles de Gaulle if the Argentines invaded the British territory again, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

South African pastor sparks outrage with ‘Jesus was HIV-positive’ claim

LONDON – A South African pastor has sparked anger with a bizarre claim that Jesus Christ was HIV-positive.

Xola Skosana left his congregation in Cape Town’s Khayelitsha township stunned with his statement, which he explained he had made in a bid to remove the stigma attached to … Original article on : South African pastor sparks outrage with ‘Jesus was HIV-positive’ claim.

Romanian woman says 10-yr-old daughter giving birth is a normal ritual

LONDON – The Romanian gypsy woman, whose 10-year-old daughter gave birth to a baby in Spain recently, is puzzled the case is getting so much attention, as she says it is a normal ritual for them.

The woman, who identified herself as only Olimpia and appears to be in her 30s, said that she is delighted …. Source  : Romanian woman says 10-yr-old daughter giving birth is a normal ritual.

Modigliani’s nude painting fetches record 69m dollars at auction

LONDON – A nude portrait by Amedeo Modigliani has fetched a record price of nearly 69 million dollars at an auction in New York.

The painting was sold at Sotheby’s auction, the BBC reports.

Sotheby’s said the artist’s ‘La Belle Romaine’ drew five bidders into a heated competition, pushing its price well past its pre-estimate of … Original article on : Modigliani’s nude painting fetches record 69m dollars at auction.

Spanish women are ‘world’s greatest flirts’

MELBOURNE – An online study released by a dating website has revealed that Spanish women are the most flirtatious in the world.

Spanish women were found to be the most likely to ‘make the first move’ with a man, according to Badoo.com, which studied ‘flirtation behaviour’ based on 90 million romantic contacts made on its site …. Original article  : Spanish women are ‘world’s greatest flirts’.

South India’s Kathakali debuts in Bangladesh

DHAKA – Kathakali, the ancient dance form from South India’s Kerala state, has made its debut here.

A workshop was held at Shanto Marium University of Creative Technology Oct 26-31 and was conducted by Guru T. Shankar Narayan, former professor at Sangeet Bhaban in Visva Bharati University, India.
The presentation had a group demonstration led … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : South India’s Kathakali debuts in Bangladesh.

Czech Republic students start nude cleaning service to fight unemployment!

NEW YORK – A group of unemployed university students in Czech Republic have started a business by the name Crazy Cleaners, which involves cleaning apartments in nude.

According to Croatian Times, the students say they got the idea when they were all laid off from their temp jobs.

“We needed to find work and couldn’t find … Read more »»».

US tags Iranian militant group ‘Jundullah’ a terrorist organization

WASHINGTON – The US has designated the Iranian militant group ‘Jundullah’ as a terrorist organisation, as it uses “a variety of terrorist tactics” to spread violence across the world.

The state department said that Jundullah had killed and maimed scores of Iranian civilians and government officials since its inception in 2003.

“Jundallah uses a variety of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Oz rights body criticizes government’s overseas student strategy

MELBOURNE – Australia’s human rights watchdog has attacked the Julia Gillard government’s international student strategy for failing to tackle significant problems.

Australian Human Rights Commission’s race discrimination commissioner, Graeme Innes, said the strategy overlooked crucial problems such as transport concessions and safe and affordable housing and safety policies.

Stating that the strategy needed more detail, The Age … Original source on Gaea Times at : Oz rights body criticizes government’s overseas student strategy.

UK scientist with rare condition collapses every time she feels a strong emotion

LONDON – For most of us, laughter is a happy part of life, but for a UK scientist, it can trigger an extraordinary reaction in which she falls into a trance-like state unable to see or move.

A good chuckle is, unfortunately, the strongest trigger, but she also reacts to everyday feelings such as fear, anger, … Read more : UK scientist with rare condition collapses every time she feels a strong emotion.

Oklahoma bans Sharia law

WASHINGTON – The central US state of Oklahoma has approved a ballot measure restricting judges from considering Islamic ‘Sharia law’ while making a judgement.

According to Politico, this is the result of nearly 70 percent of voters polling in favour of the move on Tuesday night.

The measure was proposed by Republican State Representative Rex Duncan, …. Source  : Oklahoma bans Sharia law.

Pak parliamentarians concerned about airspace violations by NATO

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani parliamentarians have expressed serious concern about the violation of the country’s airspace near the Afghan border by NATO allied forces based in Afghanistan.

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Raja Zafar-ul-Haq criticized the role of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP)-led government regarding the breach.

“The government has failed to defend the sovereignty of the country … Read more : Pak parliamentarians concerned about airspace violations by NATO.

13 militants killed in three US drone strikes in North Waziristan

PESHAWAR – At least 13 militants were killed in three US drone strikes in Pakistan’s North Waziristan tribal region, intelligence officials have said.

The officials said that the first drone strike occurred early Wednesday morning at a vehicle in the Qutab Khel area of Miranshah, the main town in the region. The slain insurgents were …. Read the original article  : here.

Flood-hit Pak running out of funds for rehabilitation efforts: UN

ISLAMABAD – The United Nations has expressed concern about the drying up of funds available for the flood-affected people in Pakistan.

UN spokeswoman Stacey Winston appealed to international donors to act swiftly to stave off a new winter emergency in the flood-hit country.

“We are getting more concerned that the funding is slowing down. We are … Original source on Gaea Times at : Flood-hit Pak running out of funds for rehabilitation efforts: UN.

Obama’s blow-up sex doll for sale in China

LONDON – Chinese have remodeled US President Barack Obama as a blow-up sex doll.

A doll wearing a dark blue suit and red tie, and with Obama’s face carefully screen-printed onto its head, was exhibited at the recent 8th Sex Culture Festival in the southern city of Guangzhou.

The doll was snapped by Chinese state media nestling …. Source  : Obama’s blow-up sex doll for sale in China.

Cabinet approves opening of consulate general of India in Indonesia

NEW DELHI – The Union Cabinet today approved the opening of a Consulate General of India (CGI) at Bali in Indonesia.

The Consulate General of India will strengthen India’s traditional bonds with Bali and also improve its protocol, commercial and consular presence in the island.

This will provide an impetus to the commercial interaction between … Read more >>>.

Train station vending machine in China offers live crabs!

LONDON – A train station vending machine in China is offering its commuters a different kind of snack – live crabs.

The Dazha hairy crab, which is a popular delicacy in Nanjing, the southeastern province of Jiangsu, is sold in three sizes – small, medium or large – and range in price from 1.50 pounds to …. Read the original article  : here.

Cabinet approves National Centre for Molecular Materials at Kerala

NEW DELHI – The Union Cabinet today approved the establishment of a National Centre for Molecular Materials (NCMM) in Kerala as an autonomous institute of the Government of India under the department of science and technology.

The centre will be located on 40 acres of land provided by the State Government, free of cost.

The centre …. Original article  : Cabinet approves National Centre for Molecular Materials at Kerala.

Three Maoists killed in Orissa gun battle

MALKANGIRI – At least three Maoists were killed in a fierce encounter with police in Orissa’s Malkangiri District today.

The three-hour long gunbattle took place after a joint team of the anti-Naxal Special Operation Group and police raided a Maoist camp in Nuaguda forest.

Three Maoists died on the spot while some police personnel had received … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Three Maoists killed in Orissa gun battle.

Qantas Jet Lands In Singapore

SINGAPORE (GaeaTimes.com)- A 380 Jetliner of Qantas the Australian airline, made an Emergency landing in Singapore today after of its engines developed a technical snag. The aircraft had 459 people on board and the pilots did not want to take any chance. Qantas said in its statement that the aircraft had 26 crew members …. Read the original article  : here.

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Son In News

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- The son of yesteryear Hollywood actor and politician Arnold Schwarzenegger is in news. However, Patrick Schwarzenegger the 17 year old son of the original action hero of Hollywood is not making his silver screen debut. Neither is he making foray into politics like his father. The son of the … Read more »»».

‘Iran says ‘no final decision taken on ’stoning to death’ woman’s execution’

PARIS – French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner has claimed that his Iranian counterpart has assured him that no final decision has been taken about the woman who could be stoned to death for adultery charges, amid reports that her execution is imminent.

According to Sky News, Kouchner said in a statement that he had spoken to …. Source article  : ‘Iran says ‘no final decision taken on ’stoning to death’ woman’s execution’.

Tea party could spell doom after splitting Republicans into thirds, says top GOP strategist

WASHINGTON – GOP strategist Bill McInturff has said that the tea party has split the Republicans into thirds, and warned that the division could complicate things for the party in the 2012 presidential elections.

McInturff reportedly said that the GOP has been broken into three groups of roughly …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Tea party could spell doom after splitting Republicans into thirds, says top GOP strategist.

Canadian couple who won 11.2m dlrs lottery donate the money to charity

LONDON – A Canadian couple, who won a lottery of 11,255,272 million dollars, has given away all the money to charities, friends and hospitals.

According to the Toronto Star, Allen, 75, and 78-year-old Violet Large found the money to be a “big headache”, …. Source article  : Canadian couple who won 11.2m dlrs lottery donate the money to charity.

Did Nazis make lampshades from Jewish prisoners’”skin”?

LONDON – An old lampshade, which was discovered to have been made out of “human skin”, has left its shocked owner wondering if it had been made by the Nazis using Jewish prisoners’ skin.

The weird, parchment-like fabric stretched over eight … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Did Nazis make lampshades from Jewish prisoners’ “skin”?.

Where Diwali is celebrated with cane fights!

LUCKNOW – As Diwali morning dawned Friday, young men armed themselves with ‘lathis’, waving the canes in the air and charging at their opponents. No, this wasn’t a fight – but just how the festival is celebrated in Uttar Pradesh’s Banda district.

Called ‘Lathmar Diwari’, cane fights are a tradition in several villages like Triveni, …. Original source  : Where Diwali is celebrated with cane fights!.

Obama seeking foreign policy gain from four-nation Asian trip following poll setback

WASHINGTON – After a setback to his party in the mid-term elections, US President Barack Obama seems to be focusing on foreign policy in his four-nation Asian trip, whose rising middle class could drive future U.S. economic growth with its hunger for … Original source on Gaea Times at : Obama seeking foreign policy gain from four-nation Asian trip following poll setback.

Pak Foreign Minister calls for fair treatment of UK-based Pakistanis

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has met British High Commissioner Adam Thomson in Islamabad after a report found that Pakistani immigrants are being discriminated by the UK Border and Immigration Agency (UKBA).

“The Foreign Minister strongly advised the British government against taking any precipitate actions against Pakistanis residing in the United Kingdom,” the … Original article on : Pak Foreign Minister calls for fair treatment of UK-based Pakistanis.

Metro services to close at 8 p.m. today

NEW DELHI – The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced that metro services in the national capital will be closed three hours before normal time on the occasion of Diwali.

It has been reported that on the occasion of Diwali, the metro service will start as usual at 6 a.m. and the last Metro …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Metro services to close at 8 p.m. today.

Brit boy suffers only minor cuts after swallowing a pair of nail scissors

LONDON – A 12-year-old Bristol boy, who swallowed a pair of scissors, has suffered only minor cuts

Curtis Francis, who has severe learning difficulties, put the scissors in his mouth while his mother was busy, reports the Daily Mail.

The incident occurred on August 11 when Karon went to put the kettle on at their home in … Read more >>>.

Oz man avoids jail on race-hate charges for bashing Indian student in Melbourne

MELBOURNE – A 20-year-old Australian man accused of bashing and robbing Indian student Lucky Singh in Melbourne last year has been spared a jail term, but has been sentenced to three years detention in a youth justice centre.

Sentencing Shayne Casey Comensoli in the County Court today, Judge Meryl Sexton said that the random attack on … Read : Oz man avoids jail on race-hate charges for bashing Indian student in Melbourne.

UK officials deny ‘Yemen bomb defused 17 minutes before scheduled explosion’

LONDON – The claim by French interior minister Brice Hortefeux that one of the two mail bombs sent from Yemen was defused 17 minutes before it was set to explode, has been denied today by officials familiar with the investigation.

Hortefeux, however, provided no other details in an interview on France’s state-run France-2 television, and …. Source  : UK officials deny ‘Yemen bomb defused 17 minutes before scheduled explosion’.

Pak expects Obama to raise ‘Jammu and Kashmir issue’ during India visit

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan is confident that United States President Barack Obama would take up the ‘Jammu and Kashmir issue’ during his upcoming visit to India, Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Abdul Basit has said.

“I think US understands how important the resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue is for peace in this region. We are confident [..] Read the original article: here.

President Obama greets people on Diwali

NEW DELHI – Ahead of his India visit, US President Barack Obama has greeted the people around the world on the auspicious occasion of Diwali.

“Tomorrow, Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists, here in America and around the world, will celebrate the holiday of Diwali – the festival of lights. This is a day when …. Source  : President Obama greets people on Diwali.

Good interface between Orissa police, paramilitary in Maoist-affected areas: CRPF DG

BHUBANESWAR – Expressing satisfaction over the co-ordination between the State police and paramilitary forces, K. Vijay Kumar, the new Director General of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), has said that the interaction between both forces is commendable enough to tackle the Maoist-insurgency.

Vijay Kumar, who completed his two-day visit to the State on Thursday, also interacted … Original article on : Good interface between Orissa police, paramilitary in Maoist-affected areas: CRPF DG.

Diwali being celebrated with traditional fervour and zeal across India

NEW DELHI – Diwali, the festival of lights, is being celebrated across the country with traditional fervour and zeal today.

The festival is important for its association with the uplifting of religious darkness in the souls of people.

President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, Vice-President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and Congress President Sonia Gandhi have greeted … Read more : Diwali being celebrated with traditional fervour and zeal across India.

Charter plane crashes in Karachi, no survivors

KARACHI – At least 20 people were killed when a small privately-owned aircraft crashed soon after taking off from Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport on Friday morning.

The plane came down near the Central Ordinance Depot (COD) area of the airport.

A spokesman for Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority, Pervez George, said that the aircraft crashed due to a [..] Read the original article: here.

Oldest known stone axe discovered in Northern Territory

MELBOURNE – A piece of stone axe, discovered in the Northern Territory, is believed to be the oldest of its type in the world.

The piece, dated at 35,500 years old, has a series of marks, which archaeologists say proves it comes from a ground-edge stone axe.

Monash University’s Bruno David led the international archaeological team, which …. Read the original article  : here.

Sri Lanka to build park for lovers

LONDON – The Sri Lankan government is all set to build a park for romantic young couples who want freedom to be together without being victimised by police.

Sri Lanka is a conservative country where public displays of affection have traditionally been frowned upon. There have recently been a series of arrests.

The aim of this scheme … Read more : Sri Lanka to build park for lovers.

Freed Chilean miner says running in NY Marathon ‘a dream come true’

NEW YORK – Freed Chilean miner Edison Pe???a delighted New Yorkers today in a trio of high-profile appearances before his dream dash in the ING New York City Marathon on Sunday.

Just weeks after being rescued from a Chilean mine, Pe???a, who survived 69 days underground, was greeted by world-class runners Haile Gebrselassie of Ethiopia and … Original article on : Freed Chilean miner says running in NY Marathon ‘a dream come true’.

Oldest person in the world dies aged 114

LONDON – The oldest person in the world has passed away at the age of 114.

Eugenie – known as ‘Sweets’ and the last survivor of a family of 13 brothers and sisters – had lived in the geriatric ward of a hospital for the last 30 years.

Her cousin Armelle Blanchard said she could …. Source article  : Oldest person in the world dies aged 114.

Malik dismisses Arthur’s ‘fixed 2007 Lahore ODI’ claims as ridiculous

KARACHI – Pakistani all-rounder Shoaib Malik has dismissed former South Africa coach Mickey Arthur’s claims that he and his players suspected that a ODI played against Pakistan in 2007 was ‘fixed’.

South African had won the five-match series 3-2 after an extraordinary collapse from the hosts in the final match played at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium handed … Read more >>.

Hispanic and Asian buying power in US ‘will increase in next few years’

WASHINGTON – A new study has indicated that despite the recession, Hispanic and Asian buying power is expected to surge in U.S. in the next few years.

“Despite the recession, the underlying growth trends for Hispanics and Asians in the U.S. are still very strong,” said Jeff Humphreys, director of the Selig Center for Economic Growth … Read more »»».

Bush ‘considered military strike on Syria,’ memoir claims

WASHINGTON – Former US President George W Bush has admitted in his memoir ‘Decision Points’ that he had considered ordering a US military strike against a suspected Syrian nuclear facility at Israel’s request in 2007, but ultimately opted against it.

Israel eventually destroyed the facility, which Syria denied was aimed at developing a nuclear weapons … Read more : Bush ‘considered military strike on Syria,’ memoir claims.

Musharraf ‘disappointed’ that Obama won’t visit Pak on sidelines of India trip

WASHINGTON – Former military ruler Pervez Musharraf has voiced his disappointment over the fact that US President Barack Obama will not stop in Pakistan on the sidelines of his maiden visit to India.

“I would take it as a disappointment, yes, indeed,” The News quoted Musharraf, as saying to the media.

The former president also criticised Obama … Read : Musharraf ‘disappointed’ that Obama won’t visit Pak on sidelines of India trip.

Tamil Nadu farmers take to onion cultivation

DHARMAPURI – Onions usually make a person cry when he or she cuts them but these very vegetables seem to be an index of joy for the farmers in Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri regions of Tamil Nadu.

They are hopeful of a profitable harvest this year as the demand for onions has increased in the market.

Onion cultivation … Original article on : Tamil Nadu farmers take to onion cultivation.

Obama uses chopper for short Mumbai flight

MUMBAI – Marine One helicopter, used by Barack Obama for a short flight after landing here Saturday, ferries the American president to avoid traffic snarls in cities he goes to.

Obama disembarked at the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport from Air Force One and boarded the waiting Marine One chopper that flew him to the Indian …. Source  : Obama uses chopper for short Mumbai flight.

Obama arrives in Mumbai

MUMBAI – US President Barack Obama has arrived in Mumbai on a high profile four-day visit during which he hopes to give a boost to economic ties with India.

He was received by Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, the ambassadors of India and the United States-Meera Shankar and Tim Roemer and Minister-in-waiting Salman Khursheed at the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Marilyn Monroe has a look-alike – a duck!

LONDON – A duck in California is set to become a star in its own right – the pond resident’s hairdo bears an uncanny resemblance to the beautiful blonde locks of screen legend Marilyn Monroe.

While Monroe went to great lengths perfecting her style, this bird’s look is entirely natural.

It’s known as a crested duck, and …. Read the original article  : Marilyn Monroe has a look-alike – a duck!.

When Bush prayed mice wouldn’t die so that Cheney could live!

WASHINGTON – Ever imagined the President of a world’s superpower depending on mouse for the fate of his council members? If not, here’s what you need to know-George W. Bush relied on a mice test to see whether his officials at the White House would survive a bio terror attack.

In his book, ‘Decision Points,’ the …. Source  : When Bush prayed mice wouldn’t die so that Cheney could live!.

Anti-porn drive launched in Sri Lanka

LONDON – A court in Sri Lanka has allowed police to publish photographs of local porn actors in the media in an effort to break up a porn ring.

The authorities hope the move will help them to restrict the ever-increasing flow of Internet porn.

“We have downloaded the photographs of actors who have become infamous by …. Read the original article  : here.

Al-Qaeda in Arabian Peninsula claims ‘cargo bombs’ responsibility

LONDON – Militant group al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) has claimed responsibility for sending two parcel bombs on cargo planes bound for the US last week, in messages on Islamist websites.

According to the BBC, the Yemen-based group also said that it was responsible for bringing down an American cargo plane in Dubai in September, … Read more : Al-Qaeda in Arabian Peninsula claims ‘cargo bombs’ responsibility.

Jailed Taliban commander “regrets violent past,” backs Brit soldiers now in Afghanistan

KABUL – A jailed Taliban commander in Central Helmand Prison, Mullah Abdul Ghani, has claimed that he now deeply regrets his violent past and even hopes that British soldiers would stay in Afghanistan to secure peace.

According to the Sun, 37-year-old Ghani led 18 hardened fighters against the British soldiers for more than a year, laying … Original article on : Jailed Taliban commander “regrets violent past,” backs Brit soldiers now in Afghanistan.

Highly-skilled migrants in UK ending up ‘in fast food restaurant jobs’

LONDON – British Home Secretary Theresa May has said that too many highly-skilled migrants end up working in low-level jobs and “high street fried chicken restaurants.”

Speaking on immigration, May tried to reassure businesses that it was possible to cut the number of people coming to the UK while still attracting the “brightest and the best” … Read more : Highly-skilled migrants in UK ending up ‘in fast food restaurant jobs’.

Pak hands over another 26/11 dossier to India ahead of Obama visit

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has handed over its 13th dossier on the Mumbai terror attacks case to India, and details of the commission Islamabad wants to send to India for pursuing the case.

According to a statement put out by the Foreign Office well past Friday midnight, Pakistan has also requested the Indian Government to facilitate the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pak hands over another 26/11 dossier to India ahead of Obama visit.

Indian and Pakistan Army troops exchange Diwali sweets in Poonch

POONCH – Indian Army personnel exchanged sweets with their Pakistani counterparts on the eve of Diwali at the Line of Control (LoC) zero point Chakan-Da-Bagh border area in Poonch district.

V. P. Christopher commanding officer of Bihar regiment gifted sweet boxes to his Pakistani counterpart and wished him peace and prosperity.

Christopher said it is a very …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indian and Pakistan Army troops exchange Diwali sweets in Poonch.

Cold wave sweeps Himachal Prades

KULLU – Cold wave conditions prevailed in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu on Saturday, as the mercury continued to dip.

The town is shivering at a minimum temperature -1 degree Celsius and a maximum of 12 degree Celsius.

Locals were seen trying to warm themselves by sitting next to bonfires at several places in the town.

” It is very …. Read the original article  : here.

Assam poultry owners prefer breeding lucrative emus

GUWAHATI – Emu farming has made its entry in a big way in Assam as it promises a long-term return as compared to the initial investment.

Pankaj Kumar Gupta, owner of an emu farm said that he believes these gigantic birds from Down Under are more lucrative and this farming, although quite a new concept in … Read : Assam poultry owners prefer breeding lucrative emus.

Historical inns to be renovated to promote tourism in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – The Tourism Department of Jammu and Kashmir have planned to renovate the dilapidated historical inns, dotting the 84 kilometres long Mughal era road, to promote heritage tourism.

Talking to reporters here on Friday, Khurshid Qadri, an official of state Archaeology and Archives Department, said that the renovation and restoration schemes were going to be … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Historical inns to be renovated to promote tourism in Kashmir.

Mehserle Sentencing Causes Another Uproar

OAKLAND (GaeaTimes.com)- Authorities in Oakland prepared itself for a tense night on Friday as the news of the Mehserle sentencing began to trickle in. The much awaited sentencing of the former BART cop accused of killing Oscar Grant was one of the most racially sensitive cases in Oakland and had earlier caused several riots …. Original source  : Mehserle Sentencing Causes Another Uproar.

Analyzing family health history ‘best way for disease risk assessment’

WASHINGTON – Family health history assessment is an inexpensive, simple, and useful tool that has been shown to be effective and accurate when implemented in clinical care settings to assess personal disease risks, experts have said.

In an annual meeting scientists and clinicians in the human genetics will show the use of family health history information …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Analyzing family health history ‘best way for disease risk assessment’.

Elderly Caucasian passenger emerges from flight as young Asian man!

LONDON – A young Asian man, who boarded a flight from Hong Kong to Vancouver disguised as an elderly white male, was caught after his young-looking hands gave him away.

According to Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA), the man wore a silicone mask covering his head and neck in what they called an “unbelievable case of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Elderly Caucasian passenger emerges from flight as young Asian man!.

ITC Maurya under siege for Obama’s visit

NEW DELHI – ITC Maurya, where the Obamas will stay till Tuesday morning, was swarming with hundreds of US and Indian security personnel Sunday as the luxury hotel prepares to receive its most high-profile guests this year.

US President Barack Obama and First Ladey Michelle Obama are expected to check into the presidential suite …. Original article  : ITC Maurya under siege for Obama’s visit.

New York City Marathon 2010 To Be Held Today

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- New York City Marathon 2010 is all set to start today. This will be the 40th annual event of the marathon, which is regarded as one of the best and the most popular road races in the world. The event has a social significance as it supports the cause of character development … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : New York City Marathon 2010 To Be Held Today.

Bhai Phota Bonanza For Bengalis

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Today is the auspicious occasion of Bhai Duj or Bhai Phota when the sisters in India treat their beloved brothers and cousins with sumptuous, yummy dishes and pray to the god for the long life of their brothers. The brothers in Kolkata have reasons to rejoice, more particularly those who …. Read the original article  : Bhai Phota Bonanza For Bengalis.

Beatrix Potter’s letter reveals author’s peeves

LONDON – Decades old letters written by children’s author Beatrix Potter have revealed that her disgust at how society was altering in the run-up to the Second World War.

In an October 1938 letter, the 72-year-old creator of ‘Peter Rabbit’ tells of her dismay at the decline of “strong, honestly made handicrafts”.

“Labour- saving and laziness are …. Read the original article  : Beatrix Potter’s letter reveals author’s peeves.

US-India ties indispensable in 21st century: President Obama

MUMBAI – US President Barack Obama on Sunday said the partnership between India and the United States is indispensable in the 21st century, adding that the two nations share same values and interests.

“India and the US share common values of belief, dignity, self determination. The two nations have great potential to improve,” said President Obama, …. Source article  : US-India ties indispensable in 21st century: President Obama.

Pole-dancers’ camp to kick-start in Australia

WELLINGTON – The usual dance classes are a thing of the past as the first ever national Pole Dancers Camp is set to start on Australia’s Gold Coast.

Pole dancers from around the nation will converge on Surfers Paradise for the first ever Pole-ies Week from November 12.

Organiser Bec Cort said the women would take part …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pakistan’s progress on stamping out terror is slow: President Obama

MUMBAI – US, President Barack Obama on Sunday said Pakistan’s progress on stamping out terror is slow, and added that it is not acting as quick as desired.

“There are elements of terror in it. We will work with the Pakistani Government to eradicate extremists. Pakistan’s progress on stamping out terror is slow. The problem of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan’s progress on stamping out terror is slow: President Obama.

Obama needs to address ’strategic issues’ for a successful India trip: NYT

NEW YORK – United States President Barack Obama’s trip to India will be a failure if it does not deal with strategic issues, according to an editorial in the New York Times.

“India is anxious about America’s plans for Afghanistan and Washington’s close ties with Pakistan – base for insurgencies that threaten all three countries. The …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

More teens exposing explicit images on Internet, prone to paedophiles

LONDON – A report has revealed that teenagers are increasingly posting explicit images of themselves on the Internet, and consequently at danger from paedophile networks.

A report by the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre (Ceop) highlights an increasing trend of risque images that young people have taken of themselves appearing on the web.

“Children are engaging … Original article on : More teens exposing explicit images on Internet, prone to paedophiles.

Obamas leave for New Delhi

MUMBAI – US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama left here for the Indian capital Sunday. Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan and Protocol Minister Suresh Shetty saw him off at the Mumbai airport. He is expected to reach New Delhi by around 3.30 p.m.
… Read more : Obamas leave for New Delhi.

Pak hopes Obama’s India trip will help bring peace to region

WASHINGTON – Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Hussain Haqqani sounded an upbeat note on US President Barack Obama’s three-day visit to India, voicing hope that it will help bring peace to the region.

“Pakistan looks forward to President Obama’s visit in 2011 and hopes that his trip to India will create opportunity for lasting peace … Read more »»».

Oz hero pilot dodges major disaster once again

MELBOURNE – An Australian pilot, who saved 466 lives on a Qantas flight, has dodged a disaster once again.

Captain Richard de Crespigny was a passenger on flight QF6 when flames burst from an engine shortly after take-off from Singapore’s Changi airport, forced the Boeing 747-400 jumbo to turn back.

All 412 shaken passengers and crew were …. Source  : Oz hero pilot dodges major disaster once again.

Given a chance, ‘every man would enjoy sex with another woman’

LONDON – Men would never give up a chance to have sex with another woman apart from their girlfriends or wives if they believed there would be no consequences, says renowned novelist and screenwriter William Nicholson.

Men desire and enjoy sex in and for itself, without any other emotional connection and they want it without strings. … Original article on : Given a chance, ‘every man would enjoy sex with another woman’.

Sexual misconduct, illicit affairs in Oz schools up threefold

MELBOURNE – The number of schools in New South Wales which are under scanner for sexual impropriety, grooming students and illicit affairs have tripled this year.

It was obtained that 117 allegations of sexual misconduct have been reported to the Department of Education and Training between January 1 and October 31 this year in comparison to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sexual misconduct, illicit affairs in Oz schools up threefold.

Learning each day from Gandhi’s life: Obama

MUMBAI – Mahatma Gandhi’s journey is a never-ending source of inspiration for the young generation, US President Barack Obama said Sunday.

Answering a question on how he implements the principles of Mahatma Gandhi in his day to day life, Obama said: One of the things I draw from Gandhi is that you have to be … Original source on Gaea Times at : Learning each day from Gandhi’s life: Obama.

No curfew in Srinagar but Geelani urges ‘civil curfew’

SRINAGAR – No curfew was imposed in Srinagar Sunday as violence and protests continued to decline in the Kashmir Valley even though hardline separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani called for a ‘civil curfew’ during US President Barack Obama’s India visit.

To attract the attention of the visiting president, Geelani had asked people to observe …. Source article  : No curfew in Srinagar but Geelani urges ‘civil curfew’.

‘Pappu Backgear’ looks forward to driving in reverse

BATHINDA – In the unruly traffic of this southwest Punjab town, where driving can be a torture at times, one man stands out – for driving his car in reverse gear. Meet Harpreet Pappu, better known as Pappu Backgear!

Driving a Toyota Cressida car in reverse through the congested city traffic or speeding in excess … Original article on : ‘Pappu Backgear’ looks forward to driving in reverse.

Bush once ‘heard the echo of Winston Churchill in Blair’s voice’

LONDON – Former US President George W Bush has finally lifted the self-imposed purdah he had donned after retirement from the office, in his new memoir ‘Decision Points’.

The book contains candid accounts of 9/11, Iraq and Katina and offer insights on leaders from Tony Blair to Vladimir Putin by Bush.

It starts with a chapter on …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Bush once ‘heard the echo of Winston Churchill in Blair’s voice’.

‘Bush thinks Palin not fit to be President

WASHINGTON – Former US President George Bush believes that Sarah Palin is not qualified to be president and thinks it was a mistake on John McCain part to have chosen her as his running mate during the 2008 presidential polls, according to a Republican official “familiar with Bush’s thinking.”

“The 43rd President has told friends the … Read : ‘Bush thinks Palin not fit to be President.

Pak rejects India’s request to tone down Wagah ceremony

LAHORE – Pakistan has rejected India’s request to tone down the flag-lowering ceremony at the Wagah Border.

According to a media handout, Director-General of Punjab Rangers Major-General Muhammad Yaqoob Ali Khan said that the parade would go on in the traditional aggressive style, The Express Tribune reported.

Handshaking between the two sides’ rangers will continue, he added.

Earlier … Read more : Pak rejects India’s request to tone down Wagah ceremony.

20 years later, chocolate ‘might be as expensive as gold’

WELLINGTON – Chocoholics might want to stock up on chocolate after they read this – experts have claimed that in the next few decades, an average man will simply not be able to afford chocolate.

“In 20 years chocolate will be like caviar. It will become … Original article on : 20 years later, chocolate ‘might be as expensive as gold’.

Bookies predict Prince William, Kate Middleton will marry next year

LONDON – Though things are not official as yet, bookies in Britain have predicted that Prince William and Kate Middleton will tie the knot in July next year.

The two are said to have put July 23 as their wedding date, with an engagement to be announced sometime before Christmas.

Bookmakers … Read : Bookies predict Prince William, Kate Middleton will marry next year.

Snoring provokes couples to sleep apart!

LONDON – A survey by the Etap Hotel group has revealed that a quarter of couples admit they sleep in separate beds because one partner has an “unbearable” habit such as snoring.

Snoring causes three quarters of people sleepless … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Snoring provokes couples to sleep apart!.

National security key to Obama’s chances of getting re-elected in 2012: Top Republican

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has a good chance of being re-elected in 2012 provided he makes progress in Afghanistan, adopts a tougher line against Iran, the economy improves and there are no major terrorist attacks in the United States, a senior Republican has …. Source article  : National security key to Obama’s chances of getting re-elected in 2012: Top Republican.

US-Indian press collaborating, jokes Obama!

NEW DELHI – US President Barack Obama didn’t miss the chance to take a dig at the press even as he answered some tough questions from reporters here Monday.

“It looks like the US and Indian press are collaborating!” Obama jokingly said as both Indian and American mediapersons were eager to get his take on …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US-Indian press collaborating, jokes Obama!.

Obama: US can’t impose solution to Kashmir

NEW DELHI – U.S President Barack Obama on Monday said the United States “cannot impose a solution to Kashmir,” but had offered to help the two countries work out the problem, saying he believed both “have an interest in reducing tensions”

Addressing the joint press … Read more »».

Bush praises Obama’s Afghanistan surge in memoir

WASHINGTON – Former US President George W. Bush has reportedly praised Barack Obama’s decision to escalate the war in Afghanistan, in his memoir “Decision Points.”

“I strongly believe the mission is worth the cost,” Politico quoted Bush, as saying in his book.

He also expressed his gratitude that Obama …. Original article  : Bush praises Obama’s Afghanistan surge in memoir.

YouTube still swamped with ‘hate preach videos’ against West

LONDON – Despite YouTube’s claims that it had started removing hundreds of videos of the radical American-born cleric Anwar al Awlaki, the website reportedly still contains videos of him and others preaching war on Britain and the West.

Awlaki is a radical cleric based in Yemen, …. Source article  : YouTube still swamped with ‘hate preach videos’ against West.

Britain’s defence chief rules out troops reduction in Afghanistan

LONDON – Britain’s new Chief of the Defence Staff, General Sir David Richards, has said that British troops will stay in Afghanistan for “as long as it takes”.

General Richards said Britain must not “cut and run”, and ruled out any reduction in our current force of 10,000 before … Read more : Britain’s defence chief rules out troops reduction in Afghanistan.

Bedspreads, Ganeshas, toys…Michelle can’t stop buying at crafts museum

NEW DELHI – Indian textiles and handicrafts charmed their way into Michelle Obama’s shopping bag Monday as the US first lady almost ran out of money, picking up bedspreads, Ganeshas and wooden toys which, she said, would make for ideal Christmas gifts!

Michelle went on a shopping spree after arriving at the National Handicrafts and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bedspreads, Ganeshas, toys…Michelle can’t stop buying at crafts museum.

UK family’s ‘coolest’ fridge still works after 63 years!

LONDON – An English electric appliance bought six decade ago by a family is now believed to be the oldest continuously working fridge in the country.

The fridge, which George and Ivy Ashley bought in 1947, as the country enters another era of austerity, is still working as well as ever.

It has served the family so …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : UK family’s ‘coolest’ fridge still works after 63 years!.

1,000-yr-old Viking massacre remains unearthed in Oxford

LONDON – Archaeologists have revealed that Viking skeletons found buried beneath an Oxford college two years back were the victims of brutal ethnic cleansing 1,000 years ago.

Experts were mystified when they discovered a mass grave beneath a quadrangle a St John’s College, St Giles, in 2008, reports the Oxford Mail.

But, after two years of CSI-style …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 1,000-yr-old Viking massacre remains unearthed in Oxford.

China facing rising infertility levels: experts

NEW DELHI – An epidemiology study has revealed that more than 40 million people in China are suffering infertility on the mainland and the number is still increasing.

According to Huang Hefeng, director of the Zhejiang reproductive medical center, factors like heavy workloads, stress, environmental pollution and unhealthy lifestyles are associated to a rising infertility level, … Original source on Gaea Times at : China facing rising infertility levels: experts.

Gandhi’s light still inspires, says Obama, gifts King memorabilia (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – It was a solemn moment as US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle laid a wreath at the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi here Monday, saying “his light” still inspires the world. In a heartwarming gesture, he presented a Martin Luther King memorabilia at Rajghat.

During the 20-minute visit, the president jotted … Read more >>>.

Welsh woman jailed for eight months for retracting rape allegations

LONDON – A Welsh woman has been jailed for eight months after she retracted allegations that she had been raped six times by her husband.

The woman, 28, who made a 999 call to police in November last year, later told them in January she wanted to drop the charges, even though she claimed the allegations …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Welsh woman jailed for eight months for retracting rape allegations.

Mozart helping to rid Christchurch mall of violence

WELLINGTON – Mozart is helping to bring down petty crime and anti-social behaviour in a mall in Christchurch it has emerged.

Mall managers have revealed that the idea to introduce speakers playing classical music in City Mall in June 2009 has led to a steep fall in crime.

The number of anti-social incidents attended by city centre … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Mozart helping to rid Christchurch mall of violence.

Earthquake blamed for divorce rise in southwest China

NEW DELHI – More people got divorced in Southwest China’s Sichuan province than in any other part of the country in the first three quarters of this year, with some experts blaming the devastating Wenchuan earthquake in 2008 for the phenomenon.

The China Daily quoted Ministry of Civil Affairs sources, as saying that some 1.3 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Earthquake blamed for divorce rise in southwest China.

Google corrects faulty maps of Nicaragua, Costa Rica

WASHINGTON – Google Maps is correcting its faulty maps of Nicaragua and Costa Rica after becoming the culprit in the latest border dispute between the two Central American countries.

According to the Daily Mail, Google’s Charlie Hale admitted Google had made a mistake and assured readers it would be fixed as soon as possible.

He said: “We …. Read the original article  : Google corrects faulty maps of Nicaragua, Costa Rica.

Oil found on A380 fleet engines “where oil shouldn’t be”: Qantas boss

LONDON – Qantas Airline Chief Executive Alan Joyce has claimed finding issues with three more Rolls-Royce jet engines on its grounded Airbus A380 fleet, adding that oil was found on the engines “where oil shouldn’t be”.

“On three of the engines what we have found is slight anomalies. Oil where oil shouldn’t be on the … Read : Oil found on A380 fleet engines “where oil shouldn’t be”: Qantas boss.

Taliban publicly execute three ‘US spies’ in North Waziristan

MIRANSHAH – The Taliban publicly executed three tribesmen in Pakistan’s North Waziristan region on Sunday after accusing them of spying for the United States, officials have revealed.

Local police official Nasir Khan said that the three men, blindfolded with hands tied behind their backs, were lined up near a gas station in the tribal area, …. Original source  : Taliban publicly execute three ‘US spies’ in North Waziristan.

S support for India’s UNSC seat ‘adds complexity’ to reform process: FO

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan hopes that the United States would not be swayed by “power politics” in its support for a permanent seat for India in a reformed United Nations Security Council, the country’s Foreign Ministry Spokesman Abdul Basit has said.

“Pakistan believes that the US endorsement of India’s bid for its permanent seat in the Security … Original article on : S support for India’s UNSC seat ‘adds complexity’ to reform process: FO.

Envoy invites Swedish businessmen to take advantage of India’s growth story

STOCKHOLM – Placing emphasis on the impressive growth of the Indian economy, India’s Ambassador Sweden Ashok Sajjanhar, said his country was well on its way to becoming one of the world’s fastest growing economies.

Addressing a major investment seminar in Gothenburg recently, Ambassador Sajjanhar advanced several reasons and arguments for this assessment.

He said India enjoyed …. Original source  : Envoy invites Swedish businessmen to take advantage of India’s growth story.

Brit manager ’spanks staff, asks them to grab his genitals’

LONDON – A Brit sales manager allegedly chased a female colleague around the office, put her across his knee and spanked her as and even encouraged other women to grab his genitals.

Peter Smith looked at sex toys and blow up dolls on the Internet, an employment tribunal was told.

Smith and some of his colleagues are … Read more : Brit manager ’spanks staff, asks them to grab his genitals’.

Bush reveals all about his battle with booze

LONDON – In his new book, George Bush reveals his story of abrogating alcohol from being a hardcore drinker.

The former president’s new book begins with a straightforward question that his wife, Laura, asked very many years ago. “Can you remember the last day you didn’t have … Read more : Bush reveals all about his battle with booze.

Huge cache of arms and ammunition recovered from Maoist hideout in Bankura

BANKURA – Police seized a huge cache of arms and ammunition from a Maoist hideout in West Bengal’s Bankura district.

During a joint search operation, the local police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) unearthed the Maoist hideout … Read more >>>.

West Bengal farmers switch to new scientific material to protect crops

SILIGURI – West Bengal’s farmers switched to new scientific material called ‘Poly Mulching’ (made out of plastic) to protect crops.

The North Bengal region has got some highly fertile agricultural land. But weeds, lack of proper sunlight, heavy downpour, soil erosion, seed germination and cold …. Original article  : West Bengal farmers switch to new scientific material to protect crops.

Maoists kill three villagers in West Bengal

JHARGRAM – Suspected Maoists brutally gunned down three villagers, including a woman, in West Bengal’s Jhargram district.

The bodies of the victims were found lying in the middle of the road in Ganakkata village in the region.

The rebels dragged out the victims Sandhyarani … Read more »».

Surrendered militants in Tripura demand implementation of rehabilitation package

AGARTALA – Over 200 surrendered militants staged a silent protest outside the Police Headquarters in Agartala demanding immediate implementation of rehabilitation packages promised to them by the State government for laying down their arms.

The protestors demonstrated under the banner of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

China supportive of rebalancing global economy, says U.S. Treasury Secretary

NEW DELHI – U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner has said that China is supportive of the G-20 framework for rebalancing the global economy.

Speaking during a conference on ‘India-U.S.: An Agenda for Co-Creation’ here on Monday, Geithner hoped that a broad consensus would be …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : China supportive of rebalancing global economy, says U.S. Treasury Secretary.

‘India should not expect UNSC permanent membership soon’

NEW YORK – US President Barack Obama might have endorsed India for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), but as Japan has experienced, the booming South Asian democracy should not expect to …. Read the original article  : ‘India should not expect UNSC permanent membership soon’.

‘Sarah Palin cost us control of the Senate’: GOP Rep. Bachus

WASHINGTON – Alabama Representative Spencer Bachus (r) has alleged that former Alaska governor and vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin was probably the reason for the GOP’s failure to take control in the U.S. Senate in last week’s election.

“The Senate …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Sarah Palin cost us control of the Senate’: GOP Rep. Bachus.

Antony recommends CBI probe into Adarsh Housing Society scam

NEW DELHI -Defence Minister A K Antony on Tuesday recommended a CBI probe to fix responsibility of the armed forces and defence estates officers in the Adarsh Housing Society scam in Mumbai.

He also asked the CBI to look into the circumstances under which a No Objection Certificate was issued to the Adarsh Housing Society to …. Source article  : Antony recommends CBI probe into Adarsh Housing Society scam.

Sushma Swaraj targets govt on corruption

NEW DELHI – Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj on Tuesday said that the government was scam-ridden and not enough action has been taken in regards to the scams.

Addressing the Lok Sabha, Swaraj said: “Since the UPA has come into power each day some scam has broken out. Between the monsoon …. Read the original article  : Sushma Swaraj targets govt on corruption.

Gandhi’s Dandi March inspires mega art project

NEW DELHI – In the last six decades, Mahatma Gandhi has influenced generations of Indian artists who have creatively expressed his contribution to India’s independence and the philosophy of non-violence – and now they will celebrate the famed Dandi March.

The three primary influences that are steering contemporary reality art in the country are urbanisation, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gandhi’s Dandi March inspires mega art project.

Free of shutdowns and curfew, Valley returns to normal

SRINAGAR – Life returned to normal in summer capital Srinagar and all other towns of the Kashmir Valley Tuesday. The markets bustled with shoppers and public and private transport plied normally as no curfew restrictions were imposed and the separatists too did not call for a shutdown.

Students in all educational institutions, colleges and universities … Original source on Gaea Times at : Free of shutdowns and curfew, Valley returns to normal.

Few non-Malays in Malaysian armed forces

KUALA LUMPUR – “A lack of patriotism” was one of the possible reasons for the small number of non-Malays in Malaysia’s armed forces, Defence Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said Tuesday.

Chinese and Indians made up less than one percent of the new recruits in 2008-09, Hamidi said in parliament.
While Malays are a little above … Original article on : Few non-Malays in Malaysian armed forces.

‘Pak may seek China’s help to stop India from becoming a permanent UNSC member’

ISLAMABAD – US President Barack Obama’s comments about backing India for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) seems to have disappointed Pakistan, with one of it’s leading journalists claiming that Islamabad would likely seek China’s assurances that it would keep India out of the Security Council.

The Globe and Mail quoted Najam …. Read the original article  : here.

‘Sperminator’ who donates sperm by having sex for just 17 pounds!

LONDON – Meet John McManus, a ’sperminator’ who is ready to donate his sperm to childless mothers for just 17 pounds – the only catch is that he insists on the ‘natural impregnation’.

McManus, 33, from Galway, Ireland, insists on impregnating “the natural way” as he finds artificial insemination “too weird”.

His services are targeted at those …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Tourist asked to ‘perform sexual favours on man posing as immigration officer’

SYDNEY – A man posing as an immigration officer handcuffed a tourist in Hyde Park and asked her to perform sexual favours on him.

Police said the Ecuadorian woman, 26, was walking along Liverpool Street when the man approached her on October 16 just before 8pm, reports the Sydney Morning Herald.

She has told police the man, … Read more >>.

Maharashtra Governor accepts Ashok Chavan’s resignation

MUMBAI – Maharashtra Governor K Sankaranarayanan has accepted Chief Minister Ashok Chavan’s resignation in the wake of the Adarsh Housing Society scam.

The Governor, however, asked Chavan to continue as the stae’s acting chief minister till a decision is taken on his successor by the Congress Legislative Party in the state.

Earlier, Chavan submitted his resignation [..] Read the original article: here.

Militants kill two CRPF personnel in Baramulla

BARAMULLA – At least two Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were shot dead by militants in North Kashmir’s Baramulla District on Wednesday.

It has been reported that the CRPF personnel belonging to the 154 Battalion were on patrolling duty at the main chowk of Pattan, around 30 kilometers from Srinagar, on Srinagar-Baramulla national highway when … Original article on : Militants kill two CRPF personnel in Baramulla.

President Patil accepts Chavan’s resignation, Kapil Sibal to hold charge

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Patil on Wednesday accepted the resignation of Prithviraj Chavan from the Union Council of Ministers.

A Rashtrapati Bhavan spokesperson said the resignation of Chavan who held the charge of Science and Technology and Earth Sciences ministries as Minister of State (Independent Charge) has been accepted by President Patil on the recommendation … Read : President Patil accepts Chavan’s resignation, Kapil Sibal to hold charge.

‘Toxic milk’ child’s protesting dad jailed for more than two years in China

BEIJING – A man whose five year-old son was poisoned during China’s toxic milk crisis last year, has been jailed for two-and-a-half years after he set up a website to warn other parents about the disease.

Zhao Lianhai, a 38-year-old former employee of China’s Food Quality and Safety authority, created the site in 2009 after over …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Toxic milk’ child’s protesting dad jailed for more than two years in China.

Cambridge dean propositioned by drunken student

LONDON – New disciplinary records of Cambridge University, meant to house hard-working and quietly studious students, revealed that a college dean had to ward off sexual advances as drunk students ran around naked.

The shocking incident was just one of the extraordinary extent of …. Original source  : Cambridge dean propositioned by drunken student.

RyanAir hostesses ’strip off’ for charity

LONDON – European budget carrier Ryanair has launched its sexy 2011 Cabin Crew Calendar which it hopes will raise up to 100,000 euros for charity.

The calendar features the airline’s flight attendants posed in bikinis, reports the Sun.

“Our cabin crew stunners are delighted to strip off … Original article on : RyanAir hostesses ’strip off’ for charity.

Rudd ‘roasted for gate-crashing’ Clinton’s ‘Q and A show’

CANBERRA – Australian Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd has been condemned for demanding a place to share the limelight with the US Secretary of State, in a heavily promoted ‘Q and A show’ on ABC TV.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Rudd’s conveyed his decision … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rudd ‘roasted for gate-crashing’ Clinton’s ‘Q and A show’.

Uproar in Parliament over scams, both Houses adjourned till tomorrow

NEW DELHI – Both Houses of Parliament were adjourned for the day as opposition members demanded a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum, Adarsh housing society and Commonwealth Games corruption scams.

As soon as both House met, Opposition members led …. Original article  : Uproar in Parliament over scams, both Houses adjourned till tomorrow.

IAF MiG-27 crashes, pilot safe

NEW DELHI – An Indian Air Force (IAF) MiG-27 fighter crashed in Rajasthan Wednesday but the pilot ejected to safety, an official said.

“The aircraft was on a routine training mission. It crashed near Jodhpur. The pilot ejected to safety,” an IAF spokesman here said.
… Read more »».

Palin takes on Wall Street Journal reporter to prove she reads newspapers

NEW YORK – A sensitive former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin sunk “her teeth” into a Wall Street Journal (WSJ) over her reading habits.

The Mama Grizzly accused the WSJ reporter of not reading his own publication.

The dispute stems from a speech Palin delivered at a business convention in Phoenix, criticizing the Federal Reserve’s current monetary … Original article on : Palin takes on Wall Street Journal reporter to prove she reads newspapers.

Kiwi bar club owner, Indian student spar over racism, groping row

NEW PLYMOUTH – A high-profile New Plymouth nightclub owner is brushing off allegations of racism after an Indian student claims he was denied entry because of his ethnicity.

According to the Taranaki Daily News, Indian student Swapnil Bhate has claimed that he was discriminated against by a New Plymouth bar last weekend, but Club 55 … Original article on : Kiwi bar club owner, Indian student spar over racism, groping row.

“India trying to create anti-Pak Afghanistan”: Musharraf

NEW YORK – Former Pakistan president Pervez Musharraf has accused India of trying to create a hostile state in Afghanistan against his country.

“If I’m allowed to be very, very frank, India’s role in Afghanistan is to create an anti-Pakistan Afghanistan,” the Daily Times quoted Musharraf, as saying at the Council on Foreign Relations.

“This … Read this article on Gaea Times at : “India trying to create anti-Pak Afghanistan”: Musharraf.

Pentagon probing missile firing off California coast

WASHINGTON – The Pentagon is trying to find out if a missile was fired off the California coast, and who launched it.
The US Navy, Air Force, and other military organisations are examining video of the event captured from a passing news helicopter, The Telegraph reports.
Colonel Dave Lapan, a Pentagon spokesman, said: “Nobody within the Department … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pentagon probing missile firing off California coast.

Musharraf to target non-voters, youth, minorities in his political comeback bid

NEW YORK – Former Pakistan president Pervez Musharraf has said that he believes he has “an even chance” of returning to political power in his country’s 2013 general elections, and would seek attracting support of those who do not normally vote.

Pakistan is facing a leadership crisis and “no political party (there) today can handle the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Musharraf to target non-voters, youth, minorities in his political comeback bid.

64 Pakistani prisoners repatriated

WAGAH – Sixty four Pakistani nationals, most of them fishermen and who were internees in Indian prisons, have been repatriated across the Wagah border after they completed their jail-terms.

Of these 64 Pakistani nationals, 11 were released from the jails of Amritsar while 52 from Gujarat and one from Rajasthan on Tuesday.

The 11 prisoners freed from … Read more : 64 Pakistani prisoners repatriated.

PPPC has started preparing economic policy for Punjab: Capt. Amarinder Singh

AMRITSAR – Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) has started preparations to formulate economic policy for Punjab for future and will it will give a stable programme when it comes to power.

“We have started homework for preparing Punjab policy for future and would give a stable programme,” said former Punjab Chief Minister Captain (Retd.) Amarinder Singh …. Read the original article  : here.

US woman solves Wheel of Fortune puzzle with just 1 letter revealed!

LONDON – A footage of US quiz show contestant swept the web after solving a Wheel of Fortune puzzle with just one letter revealed.

Caitlin Burke, 26, from New Jersey, had just an “I” on the board when she correctly guessed the phrase “I’ve got a good feeling about this” was behind the 26 blank spaces.

Her … Read more »»».

The perfect girlfriend ‘has a big sex appetite and eats a lot!’

LONDON – Men believe that the perfect girlfriend is the one who has a high sex drive, enjoys a hearty meal and gets ready to go out in 10 minutes.

Apart from this, the perfect girlfriend is a career-minded woman who earns more than their partner but at the same time wants to stay at home …. Source  : The perfect girlfriend ‘has a big sex appetite and eats a lot!’.

“China supports India’s willingness to play bigger role at UN”: FM spokesman

BEIJING – China has declared its support for rational and necessary reform of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) as well as India’s willingness to play a bigger role at the UN.

Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hong Lei said at a press …. Original article  : “China supports India’s willingness to play bigger role at UN”: FM spokesman.

‘Bush could be arrested abroad over sanctioning ‘waterboarding’ of terror suspects’

WASHINGTON – US security chiefs have condemned former President George W Bush’s defence of torture yesterday, and disputed his claim that information obtained by subjecting prisoners to simulated drowning or ‘waterboarding’ had scuttled Al Qaeda plots to blow up Canary Wharf and Heathrow airport.

Negating the claims of Bush, Lord MacDonald, the former Director of Public … Original article on : ‘Bush could be arrested abroad over sanctioning ‘waterboarding’ of terror suspects’.

Satyam scam: Ramalinga Raju surrenders before trial court

HYDERABAD – Former chairman of Satyam Computers, B Ramalinga Raju surrendered before a trial court here Wednesday.

The Supreme Court had on Tuesday rejected the petitions of the accused seeking additional time to surrender.

The apex court had on October 26 cancelled the bail of Raju and five others and had asked them to surrender before the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Satyam scam: Ramalinga Raju surrenders before trial court.

Ex-Oz FM Downer calls for improved ties with India

ADELAIDE – Former Australian foreign minister Alexander Downer has said his country’s ties with India need to improve; even as bilateral relations with China are the strongest in the Western world.

“Where we have succeeded with China, Australia has so far failed with that other emerging behemoth, India,” … Original article on : Ex-Oz FM Downer calls for improved ties with India.

‘US backing for India’s UN Security Council seat a diplomatic attack on Pakistan’

ISLAMABAD – Opposition members in the Pakistan National Assembly have described United States’ support to India’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nation Security Council (UNSC) as a ‘diplomatic attack’ on the country.

Leader of the Opposition Chaudhry Nisar Ali … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘US backing for India’s UN Security Council seat a diplomatic attack on Pakistan’.

Is the weather going awry or we?

RAJKOT – In India, the Weather Gods seem to have always been in an inscrutable mood. As while in one region, they demonstrate their sagacious powers, in other regions they appear at their destructive best at times.

On a more serious note, the overall play of … Original article on : Is the weather going awry or we?.

Artistes want international barriers removed for promotion of art

AMRITSAR – Removal of barriers at international borders and collaborations between educational institutions of various countries is necessary to promote and learn international style of art of paintings.

This is the view emerging out of the gathering of noted artistes, who have converged here from different parts of the country … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Artistes want international barriers removed for promotion of art.

Pak cabinet slams Obama’s support for India’s UN Security Council permanent seat bid

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has passed a resolution against United States President Barack Obama’s support of India’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), saying that it would disturb the balance of power in the region.

The resolution was passed in a cabinet meeting … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pak cabinet slams Obama’s support for India’s UN Security Council permanent seat bid.

Fury over Amazon sale of e-book ‘Pedophile’s Guide to Love and Pleasure’

WASHINGTON – Consumers have called for online retail giant Amazon to be boycotted for selling an e-book entitled ‘The Pedophile’s Guide to Love and Pleasure’.

According to product details on Amazon.com, the e-book, authored by Phillips Greaves, was published late last month, …. Source  : Fury over Amazon sale of e-book ‘Pedophile’s Guide to Love and Pleasure’.

Sex motivated by love and commitment most satisfying, finds study

WASHINGTON – A new study has suggested that those who seek sexual satisfaction should stop and examine why they are having sex in the first place.

Research has shown that both men and women are more satisfied when having sex out of love and commitment, rather …. Read the original article  : Sex motivated by love and commitment most satisfying, finds study.

Edmund Fitzgerald Remembered

WHITEFISH POINT (GaeaTimes.com)- Ore freighter Edmund Fitzgerald which sank in Lake Superior owing to a vicious storm was remembered in an annual memorial service that took place at the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum in Whitefish Point. Although the mighty ore carrier appeared to be invincible due to its gigantic size, it was no match [..] Read the original article: here.

Former Oz principal jailed for sex attack on student – again

SYDNEY – A former NSW school principal who has already served a term for sex offences has been jailed again for at least four years for attacking another student.

Frank Bailey, the former principal of St Andrew’s Christian College in Grafton, in northern NSW, sexually attacked a 14-year-old student while she was asleep, reports the Sydney … Original source on Gaea Times at : Former Oz principal jailed for sex attack on student – again.

Prince William and Kate Middleton to wed in 2011

WASHINGTON – This century’s most awaited marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton will take place in 2011, it has been confirmed.

The couple has been in a relationship over a period of last eight years with two brief splits as the only halts.

“The engagement will be announced in 2011,” USMagazine.com quoted a source as saying.

Yet [..] Read the original article: here.

Bush has forgiven Kanye West for calling him ‘racist’

WASHINGTON – Kanye West once said, “George Bush doesn’t care about black people,” but it seems the Former US President has forgiven him for it.

In his new book, West said that Bush and he had patched things up a long time ago. He said on the Today Show Wednesday that he has “absolutely” forgiven the … Read more >>.

US state debuts first sex toy drive-thru window

NEW YORK – A sex shop in Alabama has come up with a novel way of selling its sex toys – through a drive-up window.

Sherri Williams, the owner of the shop says her shop is the first adult store in the nation to offer car service and it’s all a part of her crusade …. Original article  : US state debuts first sex toy drive-thru window.

Oz girl, 11, gives birth, while alleged father of baby in 30’s is arrested

SYDNEY – A girl, aged 11, from a Victorian town, has given birth to a child, while the alleged father of the baby, believed to be in his 30s, has been taken into custody.

The man, who is said to be a family friend of the girl’s grandparents, is now facing 18 criminal charges, including … Read : Oz girl, 11, gives birth, while alleged father of baby in 30’s is arrested.

Ex-German chancellor says Bush ‘not telling truth’ about Iraq invasion in memoirs

LONDON – Former German chancellor Gerhard Schroeder has accused former US president George W Bush of “not telling the truth” in his memoirs over claims that he broke his word over support for the Iraq invasion.
In his book “Decision Points”, published this week, Bush writes that he told Schroeder in an Oval Office meeting on …. Source  : Ex-German chancellor says Bush ‘not telling truth’ about Iraq invasion in memoirs.

Sarah and Todd Palin laugh off divorce rumours

WASHINGTON – Former Alaska governor Sarah Palin and her husband Todd have rubbished the rumours of a divorce.

A tabloid reported that Sarah and Todd Palin were on the verge of a 20-million dollars divorce settlement.

The former vice-presidential candidate told that it left her angry but Todd managed to have a laugh on the fiction.

“I called …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sarah and Todd Palin laugh off divorce rumours.

Prithviraj Chavan meets Ashok Chavan ahead of swearing-in-ceremony

MUMBAI – Ahead of being sworn-in as the new Chief Minister of Maharashtra later today, Former Minister of State for Science and Technology Prithviraj Chavan met his predecessor Ashok Chavan at his official residence here in Mumbai.

It has been reported that the meeting, which lasted for nearly an hour was a courtesy call.

During the meeting, …. Original article  : Prithviraj Chavan meets Ashok Chavan ahead of swearing-in-ceremony.

Delhi Govt. nods for two PWD projects worth Rs 17.19 cr

NEW DELHI – The Delhi Government has approved two development projects of the Public Works Department (PWD) amounting to Rs 17.19 crore.

The proposals were cleared in an Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) meeting, which was presided over by Delhi Finance Minister A K Walia.

Briefing media, Dr Walia said that the EFC has approved the amount including … Original source on Gaea Times at : Delhi Govt. nods for two PWD projects worth Rs 17.19 cr.

Cancun will test climate talks’ credibility, says Jairam Ramesh

NEW DELHI – Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh has said that U.N. climate talks in Cancun will be the last chance for nations to agree on thorny issues such as technology transfer and will test the dialogue’s credibility.

Speaking at the end of the two-day meeting on climate change here on Wednesday, Ramesh said: “The nations …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Nepal Maoists deny training Indian ultras

Kathmandu, Nov 101 (ANI): Chief of UCPN (Maoist)’s military wing, Barsha Man Pun has denied allegations of providing training to Indian Maoists.

He said India???s allegation was based on a report prepared by Nepal Army (NA) at the directive of Prime Minister Madhav Nepal.

Addressing a press conference here on Wednesday, Pun said: “The report was …. Source  : Nepal Maoists deny training Indian ultras.

Sikkim businessmen keen to increase trade with China

GANGTOK – Businessmen here have demanded inclusion of new items in the trading list at Nathula Trade Point in Sikkim for a more viable and sustainable trade.

The traders have urged the governments of India and China for urgent revision of the trading list.

“The items which are there in the list do not have good sale …. Read the original article  : here.

Applebee’s Veterans Day Celebration Treats The Army

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- Some industries not only aim to make business, but also indulge in social causes with a philanthropic attitude. The Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar restaurant chain can definitely be regarded as one of them. The food chain offered free food and beverages to the US Army officials and other veterans to … Read : Applebee’s Veterans Day Celebration Treats The Army.

Three-day Hay Festival begins in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Kerala became an important destination on the world literature map Friday with the inauguration of the first Indian edition of the famous British Hay on Wye Literature Festival at the Kanakakunnu Palace here.

The festival, which promotes new age literature, has been described as the Woodstock of the Mind by former US president … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Three-day Hay Festival begins in Kerala.

Oz burglar claims ‘drug-induced stupor’ made him send pics of penis

MELBOURNE – A serial burglar in Australia has claimed that he was in a “drug-induced stupor” when he sent photos of his penis to contacts on mobile phones he had stolen.

Shane Anthony Willis, 33, who has been jailed for a minimum 4-and-a-half years for a string of burglaries in Melbourne and Victoria between January and … Read more »»».

Author confident e-book ‘Paedophile’s Guide’ will be back on Amazon

WASHINGTON – The author of e-book ‘The Paedophile’s Guide to Love and Pleasure’ has said that he is confident online retail giant Amazon will sell his book once again after it was removed following calls for a boycott.

Phillip Greaves, 47, a retired nurse’s aide in Pueblo, Colo., revealed that nearly 300 copies of his 4.79 … Read more »».

23pc of youngsters get into fights when they go out at night

WASHINGTON – A research carried out by the European Institute of Studies on Prevention has revealed that night-time violence among young Spaniards is becoming more common.
he study shows that 5.2 percent of young people carry weapons when they go out at night, 11.6 percent have been attacked or threatened, and 23 percent have got into …. Source article  : 23pc of youngsters get into fights when they go out at night.

Chinese Vase Sales For $83 Million

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM (GaeaTimes.com)- A new record was set in a provincial auction house in Britain last night as a Chinese Vase raked in $83 million. The Chinese antique which was made in 18th century was traced during a clean up of a dusty attic in London outskirts. The Porcelain Vase’s origin can be … Read more : Chinese Vase Sales For $83 Million.

Damaged Qantas superjumbo QF32 likened to wrecked WW II bomber Memphis Belle

LONDON – The Qantas superjumbo QF32 double-decker plane that ran into trouble shortly after take-off from Singapore to Sydney, has been compared to the World War II bomber Memphis Belle that was piloted by a young crew on dangerous bombing raids into Europe.

Memphis Belle became the subject of a fictional award-winning 1990s Hollywood movie by … Read : Damaged Qantas superjumbo QF32 likened to wrecked WW II bomber Memphis Belle.

Kiwi police issue massage guidelines to stop boob and panty finger wandering!

WELLINGTON – Police in New Zealand have taken it on themselves to issue guidelines and tips to people who visit a masseuse after a masseur was found guilty of inappropriately touching a client.

Not wanting people, who are seeking therapeutic massages, to fall victim to predators like Brendon Dorn, 34, from Palmerston North, the police …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

It’s official! Sydney is the sex capital of Australia

MELBOURNE – Sydney has more than double the number of legal brothels than in the whole of Victoria and Queensland combined.

A confidential NSW Government document revealed that in Sydney there are 244 legal brothels, with a further 90 “suspected” illegal brothels, while Victoria has just over 90 legal brothels, and Queensland just 24.

A total …. Source  : It’s official! Sydney is the sex capital of Australia.

Playboy hunts for Oz Bunnies to work at Sands Macao Hotel

MELBOURNE – Playboy is holding auditions in Australia for the world’s best bunnies, who would work for six-months at its newest club atop the luxurious Sands Macao Hotel.

The bunnies would have to be stylish, engaging and sophisticated, and the audition in Sydney is also looking for dancers, as well as opera, musical theatre, jazz and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Playboy hunts for Oz Bunnies to work at Sands Macao Hotel.

Over four in 10 American disenchanted even after midterms: CBS poll

NEW YORK – Over four in 10 Americans continue to remain disenchanted even after the midterm elections that were held earlier this month.

A new CBS News poll found that 47 percent of Americans are either disappointed by the outcome of last week’s midterm elections or simply don’t care.

Only 40 percent said they were pleased … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Over four in 10 American disenchanted even after midterms: CBS poll.

Brit jailed for giving airport worker ‘the finger’ in Dubai

LONDON – A 34-year-old Brit has been given a two-month jail term after he gave an airport worker “the finger” in Dubai.

Paul Anthony, who works for United Nations, was arrested minutes after stepping off the plane in the strict Muslim emirate.

He reportedly got into a row with a female airport employee when she …. Original source  : Brit jailed for giving airport worker ‘the finger’ in Dubai.

Ancient Chinese vase fetches a record 51.6m pound sat auction

LONDON – An 18th century Chinese vase smashed a world record after fetching a whopping 51 million pounds in a provincial British auction house.

The 18th- century Chinese antique was discovered during a routine clear-out of a dusty attic in a three-bed semi-detached house on the outskirts of London.

The owners, a brother and sister, were so … Read more : Ancient Chinese vase fetches a record 51.6m pound sat auction.

Ailing Newsweek to merge with Daily Beast Web site

WASHINGTON – After on-again-off-again talks, US Newsweek magazine and the Daily Beast Web site would reportedly announce their merger on Friday.

The Washington Post quoted people with knowledge of the agreement as saying, that this move could give the ailing newsmagazine some new-media energy and the fledgling Web site a modicum of old-media credibility. …. Original source  : Ailing Newsweek to merge with Daily Beast Web site.

Bush worries 9/11 may fade into distant memory

CHICAGO – Former U.S. President George W. Bush expressed his concerns that the 9/11 terror attacks could become a distant memory, while promoting his memoir here on Thursday, according to Chicago Tribune.

Bush worried that the September 11th,” a scar of heart” will become a distant memory, just like the Pearl Harbor day.

He also reminded …. Source  : Bush worries 9/11 may fade into distant memory.

New Zealand-based Fonterra to establish large-scale dairy farms in India

AUCKLAND – New Zealand-based Fonterra Co-operative Group, the world’s largest dairy exporter, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Co-operative (IFFCO) and Global Dairy Health to advance the company’s aim of establishing large-scale dairy farms in India.

According to Stuff.co.nz, Fonterra along with IFFCO and Global Dairy Health will conduct [..] Read the original article: here.

Over three in ten Americans praise Obama for clear job creation plan

NEW YORK – Over three in ten Americans have praised US President Barack Obama for coming up with a clear job creation plan in the aftermath of the global fiscal crisis.

Thirty-eight percent say he has a clear job creation plan, while 54 percent say he does not, a new CBS News poll reveals.he president’s job …. Read the original article  : Over three in ten Americans praise Obama for clear job creation plan.

Andhra students set largest barefoot walk record

HYDERABAD – Over 1,900 students in Andhra Pradesh Friday claimed to have walked with no shoes on for a kilometre to set a new world record for the largest barefoot walk.

As many as 1,950 students of Palamuru University in Mahabubnagar town, about 100 km from here, walked one km in the university campus.
The … Read : Andhra students set largest barefoot walk record.

Audie Murphy Revered On Veteran’s Day

LOS ANGELES, (GaeaTimes.com)- Historical Veterans Plaza near Market Street and Newhall Avenue. observed the veteran’s Day yesterday, to a pay the tribute to all the American war heroes. While concluding the event, they paid an ode to two distinguished servicemen and Western actors, Jimmy Stewart and Audie Murphy.
Mayor Laurene Weste, McLean and Council member Laurie … Read more »»».

Teenagers’ take on why bullying occurs

WASHINGTON – Swedish teenagers believe that the bully and the victim’s individual characteristics, rather than the wider social environment, explain why bullying occurs.

Robert Thornberg and Sven Knutsen at Linkoping University in Sweden explored how teenagers explain bullying to better understand their actions as participants or bystanders in bullying situations and their research included young people’s …. Source article  : Teenagers’ take on why bullying occurs.

Yemen tribal leaders not playing ball with govt. in handing over Qaeda operatives

SANAA – Yemeni tribal leaders are reportedly refusing to support their government to root out terrorism, claiming that handing over local al-Qaeda operatives and their American born spiritual leader, Anwar al-Awlaki, would be an offence to their … Read more : Yemen tribal leaders not playing ball with govt. in handing over Qaeda operatives.

Brave Sri Lankan, Russian, Gabonese fighters against injustice win ‘integrity’ award

LONDON – A Sri Lankan journalist, a Russian lawyer and a Gabonese activist have been named as joint winners of a global award for integrity.

According to the BBC, anti-corruption watchdog Transparency International commended journalist Poddala Jayantha for his …. Source article  : Brave Sri Lankan, Russian, Gabonese fighters against injustice win ‘integrity’ award.

Robert Louis Stevenson Doodle Made By Google

CALIFORNIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Google Inc – the leading Internet search provider headquartered at California has changed its logo yet again. However, this change is temporary and it is a doodle! The avid users of Google are well aware that the company keeps changing its logo from time to time on specific dates and occasions. The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Robert Louis Stevenson Doodle Made By Google.

“Civil governments in Pak have never performed”: Musharraf

WASHINGTON – All civil governments in the history of Pakistan have failed to deliver to the people and to the state, former military ruler Pervez Musharraf has said.

In an interview on National Public Radio, Musharraf said, “The important thing for an elected government is to deliver to the people and to the state. If that … Read more »».

World’s oldest mother considering having another child at 72

LONDON – A Romanian woman, who became the world’s oldest mother after giving birth to her daughter at the age of 66, has revealed that she is considering the possibility of motherhood yet again now at 72-years.

Adriana Iliescu, who stays in a two-bedroom flat in Bucharest and is a writer and part-time university lecturer in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : World’s oldest mother considering having another child at 72.

Indian-American man nailed for wanting to hire ‘hit-man’ to kill rape accuser student

NEW YORK – An Indian-origin man accused of raping a New York University law student reportedly tried to hire an undercover police officer to kill his victim in exchange for 15,000 dollars.

Rajeev Kumar was charged with rape and sodomy in August, after a DNA match linked him to a 10-year-old assault on the student. …. Original source  : Indian-American man nailed for wanting to hire ‘hit-man’ to kill rape accuser student.

Warrant issued for Staten Island man who went nude at Obama rally

NEW YORK – A warrant has been issued against an offender, who went naked in front of US President Barack Obama during an event in Philadelphia.

WPVI-TV reported that the streaker Juan Rodriguez, of Staten Island, didn’t turn up for his court hearing for his offence in last month’s rally.

He was taken away from rally wearing … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Warrant issued for Staten Island man who went nude at Obama rally.

70 pc of Brit women like doing housework

LONDON – A new survey has shown that 70 percent of the Brit women like doing household work.

The study found that they gain satisfaction from doing the laundry and mopping floors.

This is particularly prevalent among older people, with pensioners saying they find sentimental value in taking the time to look after their treasured possessions.

The results …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Sale’ is top excuse used by women to justify shopping sprees

LONDON – ‘It was in the sale’ is the top excuse used by women to justify shopping sprees, says a new study.

Three-quarters of women try to defend their purchases to their partners and 80 percent have admitted uttering, ‘It was in the sale’.

This was followed by ‘I needed cheering up’, as per the study conducted … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Sale’ is top excuse used by women to justify shopping sprees.

Jihadist takeover in Pakistan “a real possibility”: Terrorism expert

BERLIN – Pakistan is a highly volatile and combustible country right now, and is at a risk of having a coup from inside the military by jihadist sympathizers, a terrorism expert at the Brookings Institution in Washington has said.

In an interview to Spiegel Online, terrorism expert Bruce Riedel said, “Pakistan today is already in the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Jihadist takeover in Pakistan “a real possibility”: Terrorism expert.

Bobby Jindal sparred with Obama over Gulf oil spill response, reveals book

WASHINGTON – Bobby Jindal, the Indian origin Governor of Louisiana, has used his new book to criticise US President Barack Obama over the Gulf oil spill, alleging that he was more focused on the political aftermath than the actual impact of the crisis.

According to Jindal, on Obama’s first trip to Louisiana after the disaster, … Read more >>.

Brit teacher to marry pupil he met when she was 16

LONDON – A 47-year-old UK teacher, who made headlines for having an affair with his teenage pupil, is set to tie the knot with her.

John Forrester caused a storm when he started a fling with 16-year-old schoolgirl Claire Bennett five years ago.

Consequently, the former music head at Kincorth Academy in Aberdeen was struck off and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brit teacher to marry pupil he met when she was 16.

Lahore Police on high alert following Karachi CID building bomb attack

LAHORE – The Lahore Police have beefed up their security around important government and commercial buildings in the city following the gun and bomb attacks on the CID Police Headquarters in Karachi on Thursday night.

Police sources revealed that snap checking had been intensified at all entry and exit points of the Punjab capital, and …. Read the original article  : here.

Bin Laden appoints new commander to spearhead al Qaeda’s operations against West

ISLAMABAD – Osama Bin Laden has reportedly appointed a new commander, Saif al-Adel, to carry out al Qaeda’s offensive operations against the West.

Al-Adel or ‘Sword of the Just,’ the new chief of international operations, is believed to be behind the recent terror alerts across Europe and the mid-air parcel-bomb plot.

The Daily Mail quoted …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pak, China have “unanimous stand” on India’s UNSC bid: Qureshi

LAHORE – Pakistan and China have a unanimous stance that India should not be given the permanent member status of the United Nations Security Council, as it would disturb balance of power in the region, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said on Friday.

“We have discussed the issue with China, and both countries have unanimous stand … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pak, China have “unanimous stand” on India’s UNSC bid: Qureshi.

Qantas Airways’ engine crisis continues

SYDNEY – Qantas Airways has been plagued with more engine troubles after one of its planes carrying 234 passengers to Melbourne was forced to return to Perth.

According to the Age, the pilot decided to turn back after crewmembers reported the problem between five to 10 minutes after QF768 took off from Perth at 2.50pm on … Read : Qantas Airways’ engine crisis continues.

Lebanon sentences Muslim hate cleric Omar Bakri Mohammad to life in prison

LONDON – Islamist militant leader Omar Bakri Mohammad has said that he has been sentenced to life in prison by a Lebanon court.

Bakri said that he had been tried in his absence by the court for charges of forming a militant group with the purpose of weakening the Lebanese government.

The former London-based preacher, who … Read more >>>.

Sarah Palin e-mail hacker gets one year in jail

LONDON – Former Alaska governor Sarah Palin’s e-mail hacker has been sentenced to a year in state custody.

The student was sentenced after being convicted of hacking into Palin’s email account in 2008.

Prosecutors said that David Kernell guessed the answers to Palin’s security questions and reset her password.

Defence lawyers tried to defend the offence as a …. Original source  : Sarah Palin e-mail hacker gets one year in jail.

Gaddafi flies Italian women to Libya to marry them off to local men

LONDON – Colonel Muammar Gaddafi has flown young women from Italy to Libya with the aim of marrying them off to local men and to also educate them on the country’s culture and history.

Gaddafi, 68, hopes the move will help in building up his friendship with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi.

“The leader wants young people [..] Read the original article: here.

Obama administration to appoint ‘web privacy czar’

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama would reportedly introduce a more aggressive approach towards Internet privacy, pushing new laws and appointing a czar to oversee the initiative.

The battle over more government control of the Internet has been raging for years, as civil liberties groups have expressed concern over government intervention in private-sector computers.

However, with …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Himachal’s 17th century fair falls prey to modernism

RAMPUR – Himachal Pradesh’s decades-old Lavi Fair that concluded in this town of Shimla district Sunday seems to have lost its traditional charm.

The fair, synonymous with trade in traditional items like hand-knitted woollens, farm implements, horses, yaks, sheep and dry fruits, saw the invasion of modernism.
The fair dates back to the 17th century …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Himachal’s 17th century fair falls prey to modernism.

Children’s Day Celebrations At Mumbai

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- This year the kids of Mumbai are going to have a blast on Children’s Day which is being celebrated today. A number of companies as well as state entities have come up with unique initiatives to make the kids happy on this special day. Governor K. Sankaranarayanan is slated to receive … Original source on Gaea Times at : Children’s Day Celebrations At Mumbai.

Children’s Day: Fun for some, work for the rest

NEW DELHI – While kids across the country celebrated Children’s Day with gaiety and aplomb, there were many like nine-year-old Sunil who sluggishly prepared tea and washed dishes near a railway station here, unaware of the day’s significance.

“I don’t know what is Children’s Day. For the last three years, I have been working at …. Source article  : Children’s Day: Fun for some, work for the rest.

Pakistani ghazal singer Mehdi Hassan loses his memory

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani ghazal singer Mehdi Hassan has lost his memory owing to protracted illness.

The ailing singer’s life is oscillating between desperation and hope as sometimes he feels well and occasionally doctors pronounce his condition as critical, reports The Nation.

Hassan, who once enthralled the entire world through his melodious voice, was admitted to Sir Agha …. Original article  : Pakistani ghazal singer Mehdi Hassan loses his memory.

UK police investigates death of Brit-Indian woman in Punjab

NEW DELHI – The UK police, which is investigating the “suspicious death” of a British woman in India three years ago, are preparing a file for prosecutors after four Homicide and Serious Crime Squad detectives spent two weeks in India collecting evidence.

Forty-three-year-old Manjit Kular from Cranford in West London, had travelled to the northern region … Original article on : UK police investigates death of Brit-Indian woman in Punjab.

2G scam: Congress holds high-level meeting to discuss A. Raja

NEW DELHI – The Congress on Sunday held a high-level meeting to discuss the 2G scam and the A Raja sacking issue.

The Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, party President Sonia Gandhi, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee and Ahmed Patel, Political Secretary to the Congress President were present during the deliberations that took place at Parliament House … Read more : 2G scam: Congress holds high-level meeting to discuss A. Raja.

Secret papers reveal U.S. aid for ex-Nazis

WASHINGTON – A secret history of the United States government’s Nazi-hunting operation have revealed that American intelligence officials created a “safe haven” in the United States for Nazis and their collaborators after World War II.

The 600-page report, which the Justice Department had tried to keep secret for four years, details decades of clashes, often hidden, …. Source  : Secret papers reveal U.S. aid for ex-Nazis.

Narendra Modi invites entrepreneurs to invest in Gujarat

CHENNAI – Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi has urged leading industrialists to invest in his state and participate in the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Summit, to be held in Gandhinagar on January 12-13.

Modi said Gujarat had a business friendly environment. A stable government promoting policies and mechanisms of confidence building.”

“We provide hassle-free environment for business which … Read more »»».

Assam students’ body objects to construction of mega dams

GUWAHATI – All Assam Students Union (AASU) has warned the state and central governments to stop the construction of mega dams in Assam.

Samujjal Bhattacharya, advisor of the students’ body, said the experts committee has forbidden the construction of the Lower Subansiri Hydel Project at its present site as the well as construction of mega …. Source  : Assam students’ body objects to construction of mega dams.

Mark Twain creates stir 100 years after death with autobiography

LONDON – Mark Twain’s autobiography, released a century after his death, has reopened old wounds.

As one of the great masters of American literature, Mark was renowned for his ability to cast a spell over readers with his words, wit and wisdoms, reports the Telegraph.

But in the his final life work, a 429-page manuscript that …. Source  : Mark Twain creates stir 100 years after death with autobiography.

“Somebody’s silence” made Musharraf resign from presidency: Shujaat Hussain

ISLAMABAD – Former military ruler Pervez Musharraf heard somebody’s “silence,” which made him step down from the presidency, Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain, the former commando’s top political backer at the time, has revealed.

During an interview with the Dawn, the PML-Q president gave some insight into the last days of Pakistan’s fourth military ruler, describing how Musharraf, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : “Somebody’s silence” made Musharraf resign from presidency: Shujaat Hussain.

Krishna to attend RIC ministerial meeting in China

NEW DELHI – External Affairs Minister S M Krishna will leave for China today to attend the 10th Russia, India, China (RIC) ministerial meeting.

This is the sixth stand-alone meeting and it will focus on international and regional issues, the international situation and enhancing trilateral cooperation in the G-20 framework.

Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao, Indian Ambassador to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Krishna to attend RIC ministerial meeting in China.

Maoists plants three can bombs in Gaya

GAYA – Bihar Police have recovered three can bombs reportedly planted by Maoists inside a high school building in Kathak Bigaha village in the state’s Gaya District.

Rakesh Kumar, Assistant Commander, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) said that if the bomb had exploded, it could have demolished the building. (ANI)
…. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Maoists plants three can bombs in Gaya.

Maoists blow up culvert in Bihar district, one killed

ROHTAS – One person, suspected to be a Naxalite, was killed as Maoists blew up a culvert at Boulia under the Nauhatta Police Station in Bihar’s Rohtas District today.

According to sources, over 75 militants gathered at the spot and triggered off a landmine blast.

The blast site falls under the Chenari constituency, which is going … Original article on : Maoists blow up culvert in Bihar district, one killed.

Britain ‘will run out of web addresses by 2012???

LONDON – Vint Cerf, the so-called ‘godfather of the internet’, has warned that Britain would run out of internet addresses by 2012, unless governments, businesses and ISPs embrace the new IPv6 protocol.

The Telegraph quoted Cerf, a Google vice-president credited with inventing the modern internet, as saying that the “unbelievable” trend could prevent UK businesses from … Read more >>.

US drone attack in N. Waziristan kills five militants, including three foreigners

MIR ALI – A suspected US drone strike hit a Taliban stronghold in Pakistan near the Afghan border on Saturday, killing five alleged militants-at least three of them believed to be foreigners- intelligence and government officials said.

Three missiles struck their target just outside Miranshah, the main town in North Waziristan, when the militants were …. Read the original article  : US drone attack in N. Waziristan kills five militants, including three foreigners.

Peru releases video footage of newly discovered elusive Amazonian tribe

LONDON – Peruvian authorities have released video footage of a newly discovered tribe in the Amazon.

Members of the National Institute of Development of Andean, Amazonian and Afro-Peruvians (Indepa) discovered the tribe in the Kugapakori Nahua Nanti reserve in the country’s southeast, reports Sky News.

They saw the indigenous group while monitoring a checkpoint installed …. Source article  : Peru releases video footage of newly discovered elusive Amazonian tribe.

Two militants killed in Poonch

POONCH – Two militants have been killed in the Mendhar area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, as they were trying to infiltrate into Indian territory.

Senior Army officials said troops of 5 Maratha Light Infantry (MLI) found suspicious movement between Anand and Gain forward defence posts in Sona Gali forest belt of Mankote sub-sector of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Two militants killed in Poonch.

After 47 yrs, Secret Service Agents break silence on JFK assassination

LONDON – The Secret Service Agents, who were at former US President John F. Kennedy’s side when he was assassinated, have broken their silence after 47 years.

Clint Hill and four other agents discuss the inside story of Kennedy’s assassination and their time in the White House in a new book ‘The Kennedy Detail’, reports the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : After 47 yrs, Secret Service Agents break silence on JFK assassination.

Indian millionaire, Dubai Royal Family team up to save UK’s iconic Pontin’s from sinking

LONDON – Indian millionaire Bhanu Choudhrie has reportedly teamed up with the Dubai Royal Family to buy Pontin’s, the chain of holiday camps in UK which went into administration on Friday.

According to the Daily Mail, Choudhrie, through his family’s investment vehicle C and C Alpha Group, is looking forward to buying the iconic business …. Source article  : Indian millionaire, Dubai Royal Family team up to save UK’s iconic Pontin’s from sinking.

Lebanese authorities arrest Islamist hate cleric Omar Bakri following life sentence

BEIRUT – A radical Islamist preacher Omar Bakri was arrested on Sunday following a violent stand-off with security forces in Lebanon, days after boasting that he would not spend a day in jail upon being sentenced to life imprisonment for “terrorism” offences.

The …. Original article  : Lebanese authorities arrest Islamist hate cleric Omar Bakri following life sentence.

Post-flood reconstruction, rehabilitation in Pak to cost 6.7 billion dollars

ISLAMABAD – The World Bank (WB) and Asian Development Bank (ADB) have estimated that the post-flood reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts in Pakistan would cost 6.7 billion dollars.

The international financial institutions said this in a report on Disaster … Read more >>.

India, China and Russia stress on proliferation of weapons to fight terrorism

WUHAN – India, China and Russia on Monday stressed that proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and its association with international terrorism poses a grave threat to international peace and security and represents a cause for deep concern.

In the Joint Statement issued at 10th RIC … Read more »»».

L.A. food stylist pulled off plane for “Atom Bomb” tattoo on fingers

LOS ANGELES – A Los Angeles food stylist was asked to step off a plane after a fellow passenger reported him for suspicious behaviour and for having the words “Atom Bomb” tattooed on his fingers.

Adam C. Pearson, who was … Read : L.A. food stylist pulled off plane for “Atom Bomb” tattoo on fingers.

Why kids and teens turn egocentric rather than introspective

WASHINGTON – GUMC researchers have indicated that aging changes how people view themselves and others through ‘mind wandering’.

Neuroscientists at Georgetown University Medical Center have shown why children and young adolescents veer toward the egocentric rather than the introspective.

In findings [..] Read the original article: here.

53pc Aussies support same-sex marriage

MELBOURNE – A poll has revealed that majority of Australians support same-sex marriage.

53 per cent of people said they see no reason why same sex unions should not be legal, according to tomorrow’s Essential Report.

Just 36 per cent of Australians believe the law should remain unchanged to … Original source on Gaea Times at : 53pc Aussies support same-sex marriage.

‘South Asia 39??? to promote new Asian writing: Hay fest founder

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – ‘South Asia ‘39′ is a unique literary project to promote new intellect from this part of the world. But choosing young writers for it will be tough because of the talent and diversity in the region, says Peter Florence, founder of the Hay on Wye festival.

“The South Asia ‘39 will encompass Pakistan, …. Original article  : ‘South Asia 39′ to promote new Asian writing: Hay fest founder.

Oz man ‘cuts off woman’s tongue, slices mouth open’

MELBOURNE – A charge of torture has been laid against a South Australian man, who allegedly cut off his partner’s tongue and sliced the sides of her mouth.

Mohammed Tasleem Tahir, 21,who appeared in Southport Magistrate’s Court on the Gold Coast, faces charges of torture, committing acts intended to maim and disfigure, and causing grievous bodily …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Oz man ‘cuts off woman’s tongue, slices mouth open’.

Brit kite-surfer clears Brighton Pier in death-defying feat

LONDON – One of the UK’s leading kite surfers has become the world’s first person to clear Brighton Pier in an amazing, death-defying leap.

Two-time British kite surfing champion Lewis Crathern had been waiting months for the perfect weather conditions before attempting the breath taking stunt, reports the Daily Mail.

The 25-year-old, who was British Kite Surfing …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Freed by Somalian pirates, UK couple to return home today

LONDON – After 13 months of torment in the clutches of Somali pirates, a British yacht couple-Paul and Rachel Chandler will return home today.

According to the Daily Mail, a delighted Rachel Chandler, 57, declared: “We are happy to be alive, happy to be free and desperate to see our family.”

Her 60-year-old husband said that ‘ideally’ …. Original source  : Freed by Somalian pirates, UK couple to return home today.

The pouns-2-a-day heart pill that could save thousands of lives a year

LONDON – Heart-patients may soon get respite from expensive treatments and surgeries as a two-pounds-a-day pill could save tens of thousands of lives a year, claim scientists.

Eplerenone apparently reduces the risk of death by almost 40 per cent and patients would be less likely to need long-term care or need surgery such as bypass operations.

Currently, … Read : The pouns-2-a-day heart pill that could save thousands of lives a year.

Prince Harry to fly Apache helicopter in Afghanistan?

LONDON – Prince Harry could soon be flying as an Apache helicopter pilot service in Afghanistan, it has emerged.

The head of the Armed Forces said there was “every reason to expect” Harry could be deployed flying the attack choppers if he passes his exams, reports the Sun.

Sir David Richards said it was “looking pretty good” … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Prince Harry to fly Apache helicopter in Afghanistan?.

22-yr-old Brit man arrested for ‘trying to rape mum, gouging out her eyes’

LONDON – A 22-year-old former grammar school student has been arrested by cops for allegedly attempting to rape his mother and gouging out her eyes – moments after police had visited their home.

The 53-year-old victim, who lives in Slough, Berkshire, was left blinded by the attack.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission has launched an investigation, as … Read more >>.

Polish woman uses sexy bikini snaps in election campaign ad!

NEW YORK – A Polish woman has decided to leave no stone unturned in grabbing a Warsaw council seat.

Sara May, aka Katarzyna Szczolek, has used sexy photos of her in a bikini for a campaign ad that she hopes will earn her a district council seat in her hometown of Warsaw.

“I am honest, consistent, ambitious, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Minister Sahai seeks German cooperation in food processing

New Delhi, Nov 15 9ANI): Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Subodh Kant Sahai has said that India is set to witness the next revolution in Food Processing Industry.

Speaking after meeting the German Minister of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection, H.E. Ilse Aigner, he said Germany should coperate in the field of food processing [..] Read the original article: here.

Liechtenstein Prince on four-day visit of India

NEW DELHI – The acting head of state of Liechtenstein, Prince Prince Alois, will undertake that country’s first ever official visit to India from today.

Prince Alois will be in India for four days and is accompanied by Foreign Minister Aurelia Frick, besides a delegation of political and business representatives.

The visitors will also undertake a trip …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Liechtenstein Prince on four-day visit of India.

Explosives seized from Maoist infested area in Midnapore

MIDNAPORE – A team of joint forces along with the State police seized huge amount of explosives and land mines from West Bengal’s West Midnapore, Jhargram area.

The security personnel recovered approximately 100 kilograms of explosives and land mines from Chandri forest area in the region.

According to locals the combing operation was carried out on a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Explosives seized from Maoist infested area in Midnapore.

Parliament adjourned till tomorrow over 2G scam

NEW DELHI – Both Houses of Parliament were adjourned till Tuesday as the opposition continued to demand a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum allocation scam.

As soon as the House met, BJP members stormed the well of the house raising the slogan ‘We want JPC’.

The Opposition onslaught was countered by … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Parliament adjourned till tomorrow over 2G scam.

Afghan insurgents in weakened state, claim US, NATO forces

KABUL – US and NATO officials have claimed that insurgents in Afghanistan are facing financial problems and are in a weakened state after a fierce summer of fighting.

In recent weeks, US and coalition troops have launched several large scale clearing operations to drive the Taliban out of key areas in Southern Afghanistan.

According to Fox …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Afghan insurgents in weakened state, claim US, NATO forces.

Karzai urges US to reduce special ‘night raid’ operations in Afghanistan

KABUL – Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai has urged the US to reduce the visibility and intensity of its military operations in his country and end the increased American Special Operations forces night raids that aggravate Afghans and could embolden Taliban insurgents.

The Washington Post quoted Karzai as saying that he wanted American troops off the …. Read the original article  : here.

UK to pay millions to ex-Guantanamo Bay detainees over torture claims

LONDON – Britain would reportedly pay out millions of pounds in compensation to former detainees held in the US military prison at Guant???namo Bay.

Some of the men, who are all British citizens or residents, were detained at the Guantanamo Bay prison camp in Cuba. At least six of them alleged UK forces were complicit in …. Source article  : UK to pay millions to ex-Guantanamo Bay detainees over torture claims.

Mulla Umar refused Karzai’s 35,000-govt jobs offer for Taliban fighters

ISLAMABAD – Taliban Supreme leader Mulla Umar has turned down the Afghan government’s offer of 35,000 jobs for his fighters, putting an end to all hopes of a breakthrough between them for possible reconciliation.

Top level US, Afghan, Saudi and Pakistani officials have claimed that all efforts to organise the first-ever direct talks between Taliban and …. Original article  : Mulla Umar refused Karzai’s 35,000-govt jobs offer for Taliban fighters.

Armed Forces: A Pillar In Nation Building

NEW DELHI – The 21st century looks towards security, justice, economic development and a democratic polity as the pillars of nation building. Security comes first in the pecking order because the other three pillars function effectively only if the security of the nation is assured.

In the Indian subcontinent, some armies of neighbouring states,instead of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Armed Forces: A Pillar In Nation Building.

‘Breakthrough imminent” in Indian-origin honeymooning bride’s murder in SA’

LONDON – South African police have reportedly identified the murderer of a British Indian woman, who was killed in Cape Town during her honeymoon.

Anni Dewani and husband Shrien had been married for just two weeks when they were kidnapped by armed men.

Western Cape Minister of Community Safety Albert Fritz has indicated that police had “incredibly … Read : ‘Breakthrough imminent” in Indian-origin honeymooning bride’s murder in SA’.

Virgin boss Branson to dress as AirAsia stewardess after losing bet

KUALA LUMPUR – Virgin Group boss Sir Richard Branson will be dressing up as an AirAsia stewardess after he lost a bet he made during the Formula 1 season.

Branson, 60, lost the bet to Lotus Racing team principal Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes over which of their teams would do better in the just-concluded Formula [..] Read the original article: here.

Clinton defends US Afghan war strategy after Karzai criticism

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has defended the US strategy in Afghanistan after Afghan President Hamid Karzai urged Washington to reduce the visibility and intensity of its military operations in his country and end the increased American Special Operations forces night raids that aggravate Afghans and could embolden Taliban insurgents.

“We believe … Original source on Gaea Times at : Clinton defends US Afghan war strategy after Karzai criticism.

Pak won’t open any new front against militants in near future: Kayani

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan will not open any new front until it consolidates gains in the areas already recovered from militants, Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani reportedly told the US Special Envoy for Afghanistan and Pakistan, Richard Holbrooke.

According to the Inter Services Public Relations, Holbrooke had called on Kayani at General Headquarters on …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Hookers for Jesus’ mission to save Las Vegas prostitutes

NEW YORK – A former prostitute in the US has started a faith-based mission, called “Hookers for Jesus”, which is aimed at saving Las Vegas prostitutes.

Annie Lobert, 43, from Minnesota, worked as a Las Vegas hooker for over 10 years, finally leaving the life behind after a near-fatal overdose and repeated physical abuse from violent … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Hookers for Jesus’ mission to save Las Vegas prostitutes.

Plus-sized women pose nude to raise funds for charity

KUALA LUMPUR – A group of eleven overweight women from Singapore have bared all for a calendar to raise funds for a young Vietnamese leukaemia patient.

Sim, a businesswoman who sells plus-sized clothing over the Internet, brought together 10 large women recently for the black and white photo shoot, according to China Press.

Sim said all the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Plus-sized women pose nude to raise funds for charity.

Missile Strike Kills Militants In Pakistan

MIRANSHAH, NORTH WAZIRISTAN (GaeaTimes.com)- In a recent development that has made sensation in International communities, US drone aircrafts fired a number of missiles in Pakistan’s North Waziristan which is considered to be a big den for the Taliban and AlQaida militants. The regional officials said that the attacks killed at least 20 suspected …. Source  : Missile Strike Kills Militants In Pakistan.

A Chinese city sets rule for burial

BEIJING – A city in China has set burial rules that restrict the space for every tomb in public burial places to no more than one square metre.

According to the rule adopted by Wuhan city government Monday, more non-profit and government-financed burial spaces are planned.
China Daily reported Tuesday that since the city’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Younger women regret one-night stands more than their older counterparts

LONDON – A UK survey has revealed how Brit women really feel about one-night stands, and abortion.

The poll asked almost 1,000 women, all of them married or in long-term partnerships, searching questions about every aspect of their intimate lives.

Almost half of women in their 30s (46 per cent) and 40s (45 per cent) have had … Read : Younger women regret one-night stands more than their older counterparts.

Now buy an old, used truck – and get an AK-47 rifle absolutely free!

LONDON – Buy one get one free offers are not uncommon but when you get an AK-47 assault rifle free with used trucks, that’s something to think about.

A car dealer Nations Trucks, in Sanford, Seminole County, is offering an unusual inducement to potential new customers – a free AK-47 assault rifle – and sales have …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Now buy an old, used truck – and get an AK-47 rifle absolutely free!.

Pennsylvania school sued over ‘I (heart) boobies’ bracelet ban

WASHINGTON – A Pennsylvania school has been sued for banning ‘I (heart) boobies’ bracelets.

The American Civil Liberties Union says the Easton Area School District ban violates students’ First Amendment rights.

The suit filed Monday says two middle school students received in-school suspensions last month for wearing bracelets that say, “I (Heart) Boobies. Keep a Breast,” reports …. Original source  : Pennsylvania school sued over ‘I (heart) boobies’ bracelet ban.

US envoy says Kashmir a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan

NEW DELHI – Echoing the recent comments made by President Barack Obama, U.S. Ambassador Timothy Roemer, urged India to restart dialogue process with Pakistan.

Speaking to reporters here on the sidelines of a seminar, Roemer asserted increased communication between the two restive neighbours was in the best interests of both nations.

On Kashmir being excluded from the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US envoy says Kashmir a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan.

‘Hubby felt powerless over Indian-origin wife’s Cape Town murder during honeymoon’

LONDON – Brit-Indian Shrien Dewani, whose wife was killed on their honeymoon in South Africa, has said for the first time how he felt powerless after the taxi they were travelling in was ambushed by armed men in Cape Town, and pleaded with their kidnappers not to separate him from his wife, but they lied … Read more : ‘Hubby felt powerless over Indian-origin wife’s Cape Town murder during honeymoon’.

“We are closely monitoring corruption in Pakistan”: Holbrooke

ISLAMABAD – The US has its reservations over the growing corruption in Pakistan and is monitoring it closely, the US Special Ambassador for Afghanistan and Pakistan, Richard Holbrooke has said.

“We are closely monitoring corruption in Pakistan”, The Nation quoted Holbrooke, as saying in an exclusive chat with a TV channel.

He said that the United States … Original source on Gaea Times at : “We are closely monitoring corruption in Pakistan”: Holbrooke.

Home Office stop, search plans are ‘discriminatory and racist’, warns UK watchdog

LONDON – Britain’s Equality and Human Rights Commission has described government plans to allow police to stop people on the grounds of skin colour as discriminatory and amounting to racial profiling.

It wants the plans dropped and has warned there is a high risk that British and European laws will be broken, The Guardian reports on … Read more : Home Office stop, search plans are ‘discriminatory and racist’, warns UK watchdog.

Heroin worth Rs. 25 crore seized in Amritsar

AMRITSAR – Punjab Police have recovered heroin worth Rs. 25 crore and huge cache of arms from Amritsar.

The recovery was made after Punjab Police received specific information that Pakistan-based smugglers were transporting a huge consignment of heroin and arms from the border areas of the region.

Based on those leads, a squad of the Punjab Police …. Read the original article  : Heroin worth Rs. 25 crore seized in Amritsar.

2G scam: CAG report tabled in Parliament

NEW DELHI – The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on the 2G spectrum scam was tabled in Parliament on Tuesday even as the opposition continued to demand a Joint Parliamentary Committee probe.

The upper House was adjourned till 2:00 p.m. immediately after the tabling of the report, while the Lok Sabha was adjourned till Thursday. … Read more : 2G scam: CAG report tabled in Parliament.

Government receives 1400 complaints in implementation of MNREGA

NEW DELHI – Minister of State for Rural Development Pradeep Jain Aditya said they have received over 1400 complaints relating to misappropriation and diversion of funds and corruption in the implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA) from …. Original article  : Government receives 1400 complaints in implementation of MNREGA.

Hindus urge Prince William, Kate to visit Hindu temple after wedding to seek blessings

NEVADA – Hindus have sent congratulations to Britain’s Prince William and Kate Middleton on their engagement and wished them every happiness on their journey together.

Prominent Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, wishing the couple a happy future together, urged them …. Source  : Hindus urge Prince William, Kate to visit Hindu temple after wedding to seek blessings.

Two Maoists arrested in Gaya

GAYA – Two Maoists were arrested by the Bihar Police in Gaya during a police raid in some areas keeping in view the security during the ongoing elections in the State.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Amit Lodha said: “Special team of Gaya police has arrested two hardcore …. Original article  : Two Maoists arrested in Gaya.

No nation immune to ongoing and evolving global threat of terrorism: Ertugrul Apakan

UNITED NATIONS – The Chairman of a UN Security Council Committee has urged the member states to be vigilant and resilient in the wake of the “ongoing and evolving threat,” and act in full cooperation with each other to counter the menace of terrorism.

“As we have … Original article on : No nation immune to ongoing and evolving global threat of terrorism: Ertugrul Apakan.

Delhi Police arrest owner of collapsed building in Laxmi Nagar

NEW DELHI – The Delhi police arrested Amritpal Singh (55) the owner of the building that collapsed in Laxmi Nagar in East Delhi killing over 66 people.

A case of culpable homicide in accordance with Section 304 of the Indian Penal Code is registered against Amritpal Singh.

“We …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Delhi Police arrest owner of collapsed building in Laxmi Nagar.

Kashmir remains on UNSC agenda list for this year: UN spokesman

UNITED NATIONS – The Jammu and Kashmir dispute remains on the United Nation Security Council’s agenda, a UN spokesman stated on Monday, and rejected the reports that suggested it had been removed from the list of unresolved issues.

“Some articles … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kashmir remains on UNSC agenda list for this year: UN spokesman.

Ohio State University Under Bomb Scare

COLUMBUS (GaeaTimes.com)- The authorities of Ohio State University evacuated its four buildings which included William Oxley Thompson Memorial Library, Scott Laboratory, Smith Laboratory and McPherson Chemical Lab after FBI alerted that it had received an anonymous email bomb threat. A source close to the university said that the FBI officials notified that the email …. Original source  : Ohio State University Under Bomb Scare.

Traveller claims she was sexually assaulted during US airport pat down

MELBOURNE – A traveller in the US has revealed how she was left shocked and humiliated by airport officials, who patted her down in a way that made her feel sexually assaulted.

US blogger Erin Chase, author of the ‘5 dollar Dinner Mum’, gave a very detailed … Read : Traveller claims she was sexually assaulted during US airport pat down.

Indian doc jailed for raping, taking photos of victim during sexual assault

MELBOURNE – An Indian doctor in Australia has been jailed for six years after he was found guilty of raping a woman seven times in one night and taking photographs of her during the assault.

Arvind Sharma, 37, a Victorian GP, was found guilty of seven counts of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

World’s smallest woman delighted with title

LONDON – A Turkish woman, who weighs a little more than a newborn baby and is 28in tall, has expressed her joy at being named as the world’s smallest woman.

Hatice Kocaman, 21, from Kadirli, Turkey, revealed that she had always been bullied at school for her size, …. Original source  : World’s smallest woman delighted with title.

How Kate Middleton’s in-laws-to-be reacted to engagement announcement

LONDON – Prince William’s fiancee Kate Middleton was given a taste of the future after her in-laws-to-be reacted with typically idiosyncratic humour to the engagement news.

Prince Charles reflected the view of many Britons when he congratulated the couple, who dated for …. Source  : How Kate Middleton’s in-laws-to-be reacted to engagement announcement.

Working mothers interrupt sleep to take care of others

LONDON – Working mothers are two-and-a-half times as likely as working fathers to interrupt their sleep to take care of others.

And women are not only more likely to get up at night to care for others, their sleep interruptions last longer – an average of 44 minutes as compared to about 30 minutes for … Read more : Working mothers interrupt sleep to take care of others.

New Maharashtra cabinet to be sworn in on Thursday

Mumbai, Nov.17 (ANI): Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan has said, the list of Congress ministers to be inducted into his Cabinet is almost ready and the oath- taking ceremony is likely to be held tomorrow.

Chavan said he would speak to alliance partner the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) today on the issue of Cabinet expansion … Read : New Maharashtra cabinet to be sworn in on Thursday.

Susan Sher to step down as Michelle Obama’s top aide

WASHINGTON – The US first lady Michelle Obama’s office has announced that chief of staff Susan Sher would head back to Chicago after January 1 next year.

Sher, who was vice president for legal and government affairs at the University of Chicago Medical Center before moving to Washington DC, had joined the White House as …. Read the original article  : Susan Sher to step down as Michelle Obama’s top aide.

Virgin boss Branson to shave his legs, wear make-up after losing bet?

KUALA LUMPUR – Virgin Group boss Sir Richard Branson, who will be dressing up as an AirAsia stewardess after he lost a bet he made during the Formula 1 season, also has to deal with requests to shave his legs.

Branson, 60, lost the bet to Lotus Racing team principal Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes over which …. Read the original article  : here.

Water issue between Pak-India can assume ‘dangerous proportions’: Pak envoy to UK

LONDON – India wants to control the flow of water to Pakistan, and this issue between the two nations can assume ‘dangerous proportions’, Pakistan’s envoy to the United Kingdom has said.

High Commissioner Wajid Shamsul Hasan made these comments at the Conservative Party’s Foreign and Commonwealth Council at the Parliament’s House of Commons, the Daily Times …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Water issue between Pak-India can assume ‘dangerous proportions’: Pak envoy to UK.

World’s first fully functioning sex robots ‘can simulate an orgasm’

LONDON – The world’s first fully functioning sex robots could be heading to the UK.

Inventors in the US say there is an increasing demand from Brits for these mechanical bed partners, including interest from a woman wanting one that looked like TV star Graham Norton.

Scott Maclean, a US construction worker who has spent more … Read more >>.

New Maharashtra cabinet to be sworn in on Thursday

MUMBAI – Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan has said, the list of Congress ministers to be inducted into his Cabinet is almost ready and the oath- taking ceremony is likely to be held tomorrow.

Chavan said he would speak to alliance partner the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) today on the issue of Cabinet expansion as …. Source  : New Maharashtra cabinet to be sworn in on Thursday.

P. Lal’s demise marks end of an era in publishing

NEW DELHI – Every year at the Kolkata Book Fair, a gaggle of literary eager-beavers scouting for a door to the literary world would clutch their maiden published volume of poetry or prose bound in trademark red, white or beige cloth with an embroidered stripe running across the length of the jacket.

The cover …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Prince William on starting a family with Kate Middleton

LONDON – Prince William and his fiancee Kate Middleton have opened up a little about their plans to start a family.

Sitting together, the duo appeared for an interview to ITV News’ political editor Tom Bradby, who’s reportedly a close friend to the prince.

On asking about Kate’s close bonding with the family, she replied, “Yes. It’s … Read more >>>.

Yemen beach volleyballers blame sexy bikini-clad cheerleaders for Asian Games defeat!

BEIJING – The Yemeni volleyball team has blamed their defeat in the Asian Games on the bikini-clad cheerleaders performing on the sidelines.

The Telegraph quoted Yemen beach volleyballer Adeeb Mahfoudh, as saying that the dancers made it impossible for them to concentrate on the game.

“They had an effect on how we played. I think they … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Yemen beach volleyballers blame sexy bikini-clad cheerleaders for Asian Games defeat!.

Pak not making enough progress in war on terror: Gates

WASHINGTON – Pakistan is not making enough progress in the war against terrorism, even though its commitment to eradicate extremism has significantly increased in the last one year, US Defence Secretary Robert Gates has said.

“We don’t have combat boots on the ground in Pakistan. What we are seeing is Pakistani government, Pakistani army taking action … Read more »»».

Warships opened to public in Kolkata

KOLKATA – The Indian Navy has allowed people to visit its two war ships, INS Airavat and INS Savitri, in Kolkata to spread awareness about its functions.

The ships have been opened to the public to acquaint the people with the role and the activities the Navy.

The two days event is being held in connection [..] Read the original article: here.

Mid-term polls non-voters split over Barack Obama: Poll

WASHINGTON – As US President Barack Obama prepares to contest the 2012 presidential elections for a second term, he is getting conflicting signals from some of the voters who helped him win in 2008, according to a poll by moderate think tank Third Way.

Voters who backed Obama in 2008, but did not vote during …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Mid-term polls non-voters split over Barack Obama: Poll.

NY jury acquits Tanzanian man of 284 counts of Qaeda-linked terrorism

NEW YORK – A New York jury has acquitted a Tanzanian man of 284 counts related to his alleged involvement in Al Qaeda terrorism, delivering a major setback to Obama administration plans to try terror suspects in US civilian courts.

The jury convicted Ahmed Ghailani of a single conspiracy charge for his role in the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : NY jury acquits Tanzanian man of 284 counts of Qaeda-linked terrorism.

Tamil version of award-winning Malay film ‘Papadom’ to hit the screens

KUALA LUMPUR – ‘Appalam’, a Tamil version of director Afdlin Shauki’s Malay hit movie ‘Papadom’, is all set to hit the big screen.

Shauki who has directed ‘Appalam’, has a multi-racial cast like Gana, Jaclyn Victor, Afdlin, Sharifah Amani and Raja Ilya.

Made with a budget of RM1.5mil, Appalam is the first local Tamil film shot in …. Source  : Tamil version of award-winning Malay film ‘Papadom’ to hit the screens.

Brit teacher sheds 15st by swapping takeaways for home-cooked meals

LONDON – A school teacher from Southampton has been crowned Slimming World’s Woman of the Year 2010 after she shed a whopping 15 stone in 18 months and dropped from a dress size 30 to 10 through healthy eating.

Harriet Jenkins, 25, lost 8lbs in a week after turning to home-cooked meals with fresh vegetables and [..] Read the original article: here.

US to offer Afghanistan wider role in Special Operations missions: WSJ

WASHINGTON – In a bid to ease tensions with Afghan President Hamid Karzai, the White House has promised to gradually give greater control to Afghans over Special Operations missions that the Afghan president has sharply criticized.

Washington hopes to smooth over differences with Karzai, and present a united front at a NATO conference this weekend in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US to offer Afghanistan wider role in Special Operations missions: WSJ.

Tom Jones will sing at the Royal Wedding – if invited

LONDON – If invited, Sir Tom Jones is ready to sing at the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

He was one of a number of celebrities to wish the couple well at a charity event for The Prince’s Trust.

“People all over the world are excited about the Royal Wedding and I’m one of …. Source  : Tom Jones will sing at the Royal Wedding – if invited.

Sarah Palin slams ‘American Idol’ in soon to be released book

WASHINGTON – Sarah Palin has slammed popular talent show in her soon to be released book ‘America by Heart’.

The site, Palingates, which calls the book “one of the most stomach-turning reading experiences you will ever encounter in your life,” but admits that, if anything, it’s “not boring,” has posted several scanned pages and excerpts from … Read more : Sarah Palin slams ‘American Idol’ in soon to be released book.

Glenn McGrath ‘weds’ Sara Leonardi in secret Sydney ceremony

MELBOURNE – Former cricketer Glenn McGrath has reportedly tied the knot with Sara Leonardi in a private ceremony in Sydney.

Channel 7 reports that the event was held at their luxury waterfront Woolooware home about 3pm AEST with the date kept a closely held secret, until now.

The property was almost completely shrouded by white sheets, … Original article on : Glenn McGrath ‘weds’ Sara Leonardi in secret Sydney ceremony.

Pak’s arms purchases from China go into overdrive

GUANGDONG – Pakistan is interested in buying more defense systems and equipment from China, and hopes to deepen cooperation to upgrade its armed forces, a top Pakistan Air Force officer said on Wednesday.

Pakistan is evaluating, among other options, three or four Chinese surface-to-air missiles, including the advanced “HQ-18″, Air Chief Marshal Rao Qamar Suleman …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pak’s arms purchases from China go into overdrive.

Obama to award Bush ‘Presidential Medal of Freedom’

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has announced that he would award the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the country’s highest civilian honour, to George W Bush next year.

According to the New York Daily News, the decision has come a day after Bush gave a respectful nod to Obama at the groundbreaking of his library in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hekmatyar willing for cease-fire if coalition forces stay within main bases

KABUL – Hezb-e-Islami, Afghanisan’s most important rebel group after the Taliban, has said that it would agree to a ceasefire if US-led coalition forces stayed in their main bases.

The rebel group has claimed that it had already held talks with the Americans.

The BBC quoted Habib-ur-Rahman, son of Hezb-e-Islami chief Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, as saying that … Original article on : Hekmatyar willing for cease-fire if coalition forces stay within main bases.

Indian-origin bride killed in South Africa was not sexually assaulted: Police

LONDON – The Indian-origin bride, who was murdered in South Africa after the car she and her husband were in was hijacked, was not sexually assaulted, according to the police.

Shrien and Anni Dewani were two weeks into their Cape Town honeymoon when the taxi they were in was hijacked in Khayelitsha township by two … Read more : Indian-origin bride killed in South Africa was not sexually assaulted: Police.

Pope wants Pak-Christian woman sentenced to death for blasphemy released

VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI has called for the release of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman in Pakistan facing the death sentence awarded by a court in the Nankana Sahib under the Blasphemy Law.

On Wednesday, Benedict told his weekly public audience that Christians in Pakistan “are often victims of violence and discrimination,” the Dawn …. Original source  : Pope wants Pak-Christian woman sentenced to death for blasphemy released.

Bush’s new book ‘Decision Points’ sells like hotcakes

WASHINGTON – Former US President, George W. Bush’s new book, ‘Decision Points’, seems to have become a big hit.

According to sources, Crown Publishers, an imprint of Random House, has said it sold more than 775,000 copies in just the first week of publication, and racked up an additional 100,000 e-book sales.

With sales through the …. Original source  : Bush’s new book ‘Decision Points’ sells like hotcakes.

Karnataka CM Yeddyurappa defends himself on land scam issue

MANGALORE – Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa has defended himself against the allegations on land scam issue.

Interacting with the mediapersons in Mangalore, Yeddyurappa said all the land purchased by his family is legal.

“The land was given in accordance with the existing legal provisions. Land allocation and de-notification of sites has been practiced under various …. Read the original article  : Karnataka CM Yeddyurappa defends himself on land scam issue.

Fed up US man blasts TV with shotgun over Bristol Palin’s dance

SYDNEY – A 67-year-old man from US blasted his television with a shotgun after watching Bristol Palin’s on ‘Dancing with the stars’ show.

According to US court documents, Steven Cowan, a rural Wisconsin man, said he was fed up with the politics and Bristol wasn’t a good dancer.

Authorities said that after striking the television, the man …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Fed up US man blasts TV with shotgun over Bristol Palin’s dance.

Kanki Mosehri in Bihar now boasts of a School

PATNA – The campaigning for Bihar elections by the ruling party projected the Development plank to justify the term which has just ended and seek a fresh mandate to continue with the momentum. In particular, much noise has been made about how the Education sector has been revitalized and has spread its reach to …. Source article  : Kanki Mosehri in Bihar now boasts of a School.

Brits’ toilets ‘not clean enough’

LONDON – Britons’ dirty secret is out – nearly eight in 10 householders fail to clean the loo every day.

A survey – to mark World Toilet Day today – found that six per cent only wipe round the bowl when it is visibly dirty, reports the Daily …. Read the original article  : Brits’ toilets ‘not clean enough’.

Husband, father-in-law arrested over Asian woman’s death in England

LONDON – A 27-year-old Asian woman’s husband and father-in-law have been arrested on suspicion of her murder in Sussex, England.

The victim died on the back seat of her Volkswagen Passat car after being repeatedly stabbed on Wednesday.

According to the Daily Mail, the … Read : Husband, father-in-law arrested over Asian woman’s death in England.

Bin Laden funded Nawaz for taking part in elections: Musharraf

ISLAMABAD – Al-Qaeda chief Osama Bin Laden funded PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif for taking part in elections, former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf has claimed.

According to a TV channel, Musharraf also said that Chaudhary Shujat and Pervaiz Elahi were giving statements in frustration, The Nation reported.

While [..] Read the original article: here.

Dalai Lama receives Mother Teresa award

NEW DELHI – Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama was conferred the Mother Teresa Memorial International Award for Social Justice for his contribution towards humanity, promoting inter-religious discourses and the welfare of the Tibetan people.

“I am one of the admirers of late Mother Teresa. I have met her. I really admire … Read more »».

4 in 10 Americans believe that marriage is becoming obsolete

LONDON – A new survey in the US has revealed that almost four in ten couples believe that marriage is becoming obsolete.

More people are accepting the view that wedding bells aren’t needed to have a happy family, reports the Daily Mail.

A poll …. Source  : 4 in 10 Americans believe that marriage is becoming obsolete.

International Men’s Day Is Today

PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO (GaeaTimes.com)- November 19 is celebrated as International Men’s Day across the world. While the Women’s Day receives huge media attention and even the build up to the day is well documented, the Men’s Day, every year, passes on unnoticed and somewhat unknowingly. Similar to most years, this year too …. Original article  : International Men’s Day Is Today.

Second suspect arrested for Indian-origin Brit woman’s murder in S. Africa

CAPE TOWN – Cape Town Police have arrested a second suspect in connection with the weekend death of an Indian-origin British tourist who was honeymooning in the area.

The New York Post quoted National Police Chief Bheki Cele as saying at a nationally televised news conference that the murder of a foreigner has once again …. Source article  : Second suspect arrested for Indian-origin Brit woman’s murder in S. Africa.

200,000 people worldwide celebrate Guinness World Records Day

LONDON – The annual Guinness World Records Day saw more than 200,000 people worldwide taking part in a series of oddball events, right from heroic deeds to performing the silliest of stunts.

The day was first celebrated in 2003 to mark the moment when the Guinness Book of World Records itself became a record-breaker by becoming … Read more >>.

Indian-origin woman in US stole ???21m to go shopping

LONDON – An Indian-origin woman in the US, who stole 21 million pounds from her work to go shopping, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison.

Sue Sachdeva, 47, bought thousands of designer clothes that she never wore, hundreds of pairs of shoes and more than 200 handbags.

The compulsive shopper also had a holiday home …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Indian-origin woman in US stole ???21m to go shopping.

2G scam: Parliament adjourned till Monday

NEW DELHI – Both Houses of Parliament were adjourned till Monday as opposition members continued to demand a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into 2G spectrum allocation scam.

As soon as the Lok Sabha met for the day, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Samajwadi Party (SP) rushed into well of the house shouting, “We … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 2G scam: Parliament adjourned till Monday.

China Telecom denies ‘hijacking’ of 15 percent of world Internet traffic

BEIJING – China Telecom, a major wireless service provider in China, has denied allegations that its servers had “hijacked” nearly 15 percent of the world’s Internet traffic, including data from the US Department of Defense and other government and commercial websites, in April.

“China Telecom has never done such an act. These reports by foreign media [..] Read the original article: here.

West interference in Iran’s affairs could affect nuke talks: Ahmadinejad

BAKU – Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has criticized foreign attention on the case of Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani, who was sentenced to death for adultery, and warned that the West needed to lift pressure on the Islamic Republic if it wanted progress in talks about its nuclear program with six world powers tentatively scheduled for next … Read : West interference in Iran’s affairs could affect nuke talks: Ahmadinejad.

Shooter Rathore underscores importance of fitness at Delhi School Skating Championship

NEW DELHI – The importance of maintaining physical fitness was underscored at the two-day Inter-School Roller Skating Championship 2010, which was held here under the aegis of the Netaji Subhash Sports and Welfare Association.

Declaring the event open on November 18, Colonel Rajyavardhan Singh, ace shooter and silver medal winner in the Men’s Double Trap shooting … Read : Shooter Rathore underscores importance of fitness at Delhi School Skating Championship.

Pak minister calls for “re-investigation, fair trial” of blasphemy accused Christian woman

LAHORE – Pakistan’s Minister for Minority Affairs has called for a thorough re-investigation and fair appeal for a Christian mother sentenced to death for blasphemy, after the Pope called for her release.

“We have requested the Punjab government that the trial should be fair in the high court. She must also be provided security in jail,” … Read more : Pak minister calls for “re-investigation, fair trial” of blasphemy accused Christian woman.

Qantas A380 flight pilots faced ‘unprecedented’ failures before emergency landing

MELBOURNE – New details have revealed that the pilots of the ill-fated Qantas A380 flight QF32 were forced to deal with an “unprecedented” number of issues during the two-hour ordeal.

The Airbus A380, bound for Sydney from Singapore, was carrying 433 passengers and 26 crewmembers when it ran into trouble shortly after take-off on November 4.

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

Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton in a hut in Kenya

LONDON – Prince William popped the question to Kate Middleton as they stayed in a hut in Kenya.

The couple wrote in a visitors’ book after their romantic trip last month to the log cabin.

Kate said she had a “wonderful 24 hours” at the Kenyan hideaway.

The future Queen described their one-night stay at … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton in a hut in Kenya.

India lost 462 bln dollars through tax evasion, crime and corruption since 1948: Report

WASHINGTON – A new report has said that India has lost 462 billion dollars in illegal capital flows between 1948 and 2008.

According to the report from Washington-based group Global Financial Integrity (GFI), the flows are more than twice of India’s external debt of 230 billion dollars.

The loss has been caused because of companies and …. Source article  : India lost 462 bln dollars through tax evasion, crime and corruption since 1948: Report.

“Karachi will witness ethnic cleansing like Bosnia if govt doesn’t wake up”

KARACHI – Karachi may witness ethnic cleansing like that in Bosnia, if the government continues its apathy towards ethnic clashes and target killings rampant in the city, the Secretary General of Citizens for a Better Environment has warned.

“If our government is not going to wake up, I fear Karachi will have ethnic cleansing like Bosnia. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : “Karachi will witness ethnic cleansing like Bosnia if govt doesn’t wake up”.

Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik critical of forest officers

BHUBANESWAR – Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has criticised the delay in processing files by the Divisional Forest Officers (DFO) for proposals under Forest Act.

Inaugurating the annual DFO Conference here on Thursday, Patnaik pointed out that there are instances of avoidable delay in the matter of formulation and processing of proposals under the Forest [..] Read the original article: here.

Royal-bride-to-be ‘will leave job but won’t be a working princess right away’

LONDON – Prince William’s soon-to-be bride Kate Middleton is to give up working for her parents’ company.

However, she will not forge a role as a working princess immediately after she marries, fuelling speculation that the couple has plans to start a family soon.

Middleton, who turns 29 in January, will give up her job as a … Original article on : Royal-bride-to-be ‘will leave job but won’t be a working princess right away’.

‘Ghaans ki Roti’ still a staple food for tribals in the times of PDS

BHOPAL – The National Advisory Council after an intense period of wrangling with the Planning Commission and the government has cleared Food Security framework based on differential entitlements with legal guarantees.

The framework, which will form the basis of the Bill, also envisages additional entitlements beyond the PDS to address the nutritional needs of … Read : ‘Ghaans ki Roti’ still a staple food for tribals in the times of PDS.

Israeli military condemns Brit activists for revealing its ‘war criminal’ soldiers on website

JERUSALEM – The Israeli military has condemned British activists for the publication of names and photographs of 200 Israeli soldiers, including senior commanders and low-ranking soldiers, on a US-based website that called them ‘war criminals.’

According to the Mail Online, the website also published home addresses and ID numbers of those soldiers, who the site claimed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Israeli military condemns Brit activists for revealing its ‘war criminal’ soldiers on website.

Assam hosts career fair for ‘disabled’

GUWAHATI – A career fair is held for the disabled in Guwahati as an initiative to generate employment among disabled.

Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi inaugurated the fair on Friday.

Career access has brought together 25 companies representing Telecommunications, Insurance, Retail, Manufacturing, Consultancy Firms, IT and ITES, Cosmetics and Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG).

Total 352 qualified candidates …. Source  : Assam hosts career fair for ‘disabled’.

Chennai’s transgender activist trains community members in filmmaking

CHENNAI – A transgender activist, Kalki Subramaniam, trains her community members in documentary film-making in Chennai.

Subramaniam said on Friday the Information Technology could play a tremendous role in the empowerment of marginalised, stigmatised transgender community.

“If you look our country (India), the current scenario is that in Information and Media Technology our country is one of …. Source  : Chennai’s transgender activist trains community members in filmmaking.

Iranian firm comes up with first Islamic doll – Fatima

TEL AVIV – An Iranian firm has come up with the first Islamic doll that it has named as Fatima.

In the past there had been two dolls, ‘Sarah’ and ‘Dara’, which were supposed to be Iran’s answer to Barbie and Ken, but they failed to impress the local market.

And so Fatima, a doll which has … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Iranian firm comes up with first Islamic doll – Fatima.

Almost half of over-50s have yet to realize even one lifelong dream

LONDON – Nearly half of over-50s have yet to fulfill even one of the lifelong dreams they have toiled towards, a new UK poll suggests.

The poll of 13,000 over-50s was commissioned by Saga Personal Finance.

It revealed that the favourite ambition was to be financially self-sufficient (53 per cent), followed by the ability to provide ’significant …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Almost half of over-50s have yet to realize even one lifelong dream.

TSA scanners can reveal boob jobs, prosthetic testicles

WASHINGTON – If you thought airport scanners could detect only explosives or liquids, be prepared to be embarrassed.

Dr. Kristin Byrne, a radiologist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, what TSA scanners can learn about your health history by just passing through the security line.

“The airport scanners show anything on the surface of …. Source  : TSA scanners can reveal boob jobs, prosthetic testicles.

Textile workers demand ban on cotton yarn export

TIRUPUR – Several textile industries and weaving units protested against the soaring prices of cotton by observing a day-long strike in Tamil Nadu’s Tirupur city, demanding the government to put a ban on cotton yarn exports.

Reportedly the price of raw cotton has increased by 120 percent and cotton yarn price by 90 percent in the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Textile workers demand ban on cotton yarn export.

Cochin Airport Hit By Staff Shortage

COCHIN, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The passenger arriving at the Cochin International Airport on Friday had a harrowing time before they could catch their flights to various domestic and global destinations. They were put in trouble by the inordinate delay in travel document processing by the emigration wing of the airport. The delay was caused by … Read more : Cochin Airport Hit By Staff Shortage.

Over 90% Afghans living in battlefront region unaware of 9/11 terror attacks: Report

WASHINGTON – Most of the Afghan population living in the region which is a major battlefront between the US and the Taliban don’t know anything about the terrorist attacks that brought international soldiers to Afghanistan, according to a report.

The International Council on Security and Development said in its report that 92 percent of 1,000 Afghan [..] Read the original article: here.

Militants torch fleet of NATO supply tankers in Peshawar

PESHAWAR – Unidentified armed militants launched an attack on a workshop in Peshawar, torching a number of NATO supply tankers parked there.

Rescue sources revealed that a bomb- weighing 2.5 kilogram- was also found from the crime site, which has been defused, Geo News reported.

According to sources, the workshop is located at a Ring Road leading … Original article on : Militants torch fleet of NATO supply tankers in Peshawar.

Serb pilots blame ‘pressures’ of working in India for Dubai-Mangalore AI plane crash

BELGRADE – Denying media reports that a sleepy captain was responsible for an Air India plane crash in May that killed 158 passengers, the Serbian Pilots Association has said that pilot fatigue caused by working conditions in India should be blamed for the mishap.

The Globe and Mail quoted the Serb pilots as saying that the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Misuse of Internet by jurors could kill jury system, warns UK’s most senior judge

LONDON – The jury system might “not survive” if tweeting and the misuse of the Internet by jurors is not stopped, according to the most senior judge in England and Wales.

The BBC quoted Lord Chief Justice, Lord Judge, as saying: “If the jury system is to survive as the system for a fair trial… the …. Source article  : Misuse of Internet by jurors could kill jury system, warns UK’s most senior judge.

Neighbours fuming over Fritzl’s plan to build new flats in Amstetten

LONDON – Residents in the Austrian country town of Amstetten are fuming, as their most infamous fellow citizen, Josef Fritzl, is planning to build new flats next their houses.

At first glimpse, the architectural plans for a dozen or so modern flats, an underground garage and an office block with big city-style mirrored windows seemed to … Original article on : Neighbours fuming over Fritzl’s plan to build new flats in Amstetten.

Girls are held back by ladette culture: Cambridge University academic

LONDON – A senior academic from prestigious Cambridge University has stated that young women are so sexualized and image conscious that they lack intellectual confidence.

Dame Patricia Hodgson, principal of all-girls Newnham College, blamed the ‘ladette -culture’ for its emphasis on looks and the way it frowns on educational achievement and said it leaves girls believing …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Girls are held back by ladette culture: Cambridge University academic.

Why women always fall asleep during movies

WASHINGTON – The last time you decided to watch a flick with your woman, you found her dozing off just after 20 minutes of being in the movie. Well, now scientists have discovered why women tend to fall asleep while watching films.

“We’re tired. We lead busy lives, we don’t get enough sleep and we’re usually … Original article on : Why women always fall asleep during movies.

Amazon tops list of UK’s best brands

LONDON – Amazon has topped a new list of Britain’s most famous brands.

The Internet giant even left behind Waitrose and Marks n Spencer in a consumer survey of 163 household names.

Moreover, researchers are shocked by the level of fury over gas and electricity suppliers and financial firms.

Only one of Britain’s big six energy …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Prince Charles states publicly that his wife Camilla could be Queen

LONDON – Prince Charles has for the first time publicly stated that his wife Camilla could be crowned Queen.

The Prince of Wales was asked during a television interview if the Duchess of Cornwall would be made Queen if and when he comes to the throne or if she would be Princess Consort, and he gave … Read more >>>.

Palin tries to lure Bristol’s ‘DWTS’ viewers to her own less popular show

WASHINGTON – Former Alaska governor Sarah Palin is trying to lure her daughter Bristol’s ‘Dancing With the Stars’ viewers to her own less popular reality TV series TLC.

Palin, 46, tweeted on November 18 about Bristol, 20, being a diva, and invited viewers to her show on November 21.

“Ah yes…Bristol-the-diva! Silly critics! See her diva-ish-ness … Original source on Gaea Times at : Palin tries to lure Bristol’s ‘DWTS’ viewers to her own less popular show.

Piggy bank made with real piglet angers animal rights groups

LONDON – An Irish designer was creative enough to make a ‘piggy bank’ with real piglets, but only to welcome criticism from animal welfare groups.

The taxidermied swine is the brainchild of designer Colin Hart from Belfast who claimed to have received death threats as a result of the product, which comes complete with slot and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Piggy bank made with real piglet angers animal rights groups.

48hrs after engagement announcement, Wills pulls off dramatic rescue

LONDON – Just 48 hours after announcing his engagement to Kate Middleton, Prince William was involved in a helicopter rescue mission on Mount Snowdon in North Wales.

The Prince co-piloted an RAF Sea King, which was scrambled to help Greg Watkins who was stuck 3,000ft (914m) up the mountain in stormy conditions, reports the Mirror.

The 28-year-old …. Read the original article  : here.

Oz premier asks colleagues to keep their clothes on during Xmas parties

MELBOURNE – An Australian premier has issued a clear but stern warning to her Cabinet colleagues to keep their clothes on and behave themselves during office Christmas parties this year.

NSW premier Kristina Keneally told ministers to ensure that they did not act inappropriately at any of the upcoming parties, reports the Daily Telegraph.

Her admonition came … Read more »»».

US report says international interfaith initiatives growing

NEVADA – “International interfaith initiatives are growing in many parts of the world”, according to United States Department of State issued “International Religious Freedom Report 2010″, which came out on November 17.

It further says: “We are encouraged by this growing recognition by governments and religious leaders that freedom and respectful religious coexistence are critical to … Original source on Gaea Times at : US report says international interfaith initiatives growing.

Hindus upset over Newsweek cover showing Obama as Nataraja

NEVADA – Hindus are upset over the cover of November 22 edition of American newsweekly Newsweek which depicts US President Barack Obama in Nataraja pose, saying that it trivializes their venerated deity Siva.

Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, said that Lord Siva was a highly revered major deity in Hinduism … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Hindus upset over Newsweek cover showing Obama as Nataraja.

Muslims welcome Hindu statesman Zed to Id al-Adha celebrations in Nevada

NEVADA – In a remarkable interfaith gesture, Muslims welcomed Hindu statesman Rajan Zed to their Id al-Adha celebrations in Sparks (Nevada, USA) on November 20.

Speaking on the occasion, Rajan Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, said that peace and love lied at the heart of all religions and people had more in …. Read the original article  : Muslims welcome Hindu statesman Zed to Id al-Adha celebrations in Nevada.

Oz teachers celebrate Friday night ‘happy hour’ in staff rooms boozing

MELBOURNE – Drug and alcohol campaigners are fuming as NSW teachers celebrate Friday night “happy hour” in school staff rooms getting stuck into cheap booze.

Many of the state’s 200-odd Catholic schools are understood to have refrigerators stocked with alcohol in staff rooms and to publicize cheap alcohol, reports the Daily Telegraph.

According to the NSW Education … Read more >>.

Glenn McGrath’s second marriage was his late wife’s dying wish

MELBOURNE – Former Australian cricketer Glenn McGrath’s second wedding was his late wife Jane’s dying wish.

In the final days of her battle with cancer, Jane’s dying wish was for her husband Glenn to find a woman to love and to help raise their children.

Jane’s best friend Tracy Bevan has endorsed Glenn’s marriage to Sara Leonardi, …. Read the original article  : here.

British forces hail ‘Afghan Elvis’ concert in Helmand

LONDON – A musical concert by the ‘Afghan Elvis’ has been hailed as proof of the improving security in Afghanistan by the British forces.

In one of the biggest musical events ever to take place in the country, pop star Farhad Darya performed in Lashkar Gah, Helmand province.

Around 5,000 Afghans were at the Karzai Stadium to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : British forces hail ‘Afghan Elvis’ concert in Helmand.

Anthropologists looking for Roman legion in China

NEW DELHI – Experts at the newly established Italian Studies Center at Lanzhou University in Gansu province are looking into the possibility that some European-looking Chinese in Northwest China are the descendants of a lost army from the Roman Empire.

They will conduct excavations on a section of the Silk Road, a 7,000-kilometer trade route that … Read more >>.

Chinese dissident plans empty chair protest for Nobel peace prize ceremony

LONDON – A Chinese veteran of the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989, Yang Jianli, has said that his decision not to attend the Nobel peace prize award ceremony in Oslo on December 10 will send out a strong international message to China to end its human rights violations.

China has prevented dissident Liu Xiaobo from receiving …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pak govt probing Transparency International’s operations in country

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Interior Ministry has asked all ministries, divisions and departments to sever contacts with Transparency International (TI), as the government has started investigating operations of the Pakistan chapter of the international anti-corruption organisation.

According to The News, sources have confirmed that the Interior Ministry has appointed an IG level officer in this connection, as …. Read the original article  : here.

Blasphemy accused Pak-Christian woman seeks President’s mercy

LAHORE – A Christian woman sentenced to death in Pakistan on charges of blasphemy has appealed to President Asif Ali Zardari to pardon her, saying that she had been wrongfully accused by neighbours due to a personal dispute.

“I told the police that I have not committed any blasphemy and this is a wrong accusation, but [..] Read the original article: here.

TATA-owned Jaguar to hire 1500 for production jobs, more in the offing

LONDON – British car manufacturing giant Jaguar Land Rover, which is partly owned by India’s TATA Group, appears to have come out of the red, and is on a hiring spree.

It has already announced 1500 new UK posts. But three times that number may be needed if the company’s strategy goes to plan, The Telegraph … Original article on : TATA-owned Jaguar to hire 1500 for production jobs, more in the offing.

Gordon Brown earns ???60K for 50-minute speech in India

LONDON – Former Brit PM Gordon Brown reportedly made a whopping 60,000 pounds for a 50-minute speech on Global Economic Crisis in New Delhi.

Brown, who has barely been seen in public since he stepped down as Prime Minister in May, was a keynote speaker at a summit in the Indian capital.

He gave a 50-minute speech …. Source article  : Gordon Brown earns ???60K for 50-minute speech in India.

Dog ‘christened’ in lavish church ceremony

LONDON – A dog owner proved his love for his pooch when he got the puppy ‘christened’ in an exuberant church ceremony.

A Shih Tzu puppy called Sheridan wore a specially made silk shawl and was brought to church in a chauffer driven Jaguar.fter the ceremony, the puppy was taken to a hotel where 75 guests …. Original source  : Dog ‘christened’ in lavish church ceremony.

Philadelphia Marathon Lifts Spirits Higher

PHILADELPHIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Philadelphia Marathon which was started way back in 1954, has come a long way. On Saturday, the city of Philadelphia was seen buzzing with the spirit of the marathon race scheduled to begin on Sunday.
Around 20,000 runners from all across the world have come to the city to take part in this … Read more : Philadelphia Marathon Lifts Spirits Higher.

Mumbai-style attackers may target German Parliament

BERLIN – Terrorists could attack the Reichstag, Germany’s security chiefs have warned.

The New York Post quoted police sources, as saying that al Qaeda and associated terror groups could launch the ambush in February or March 2011, reports.

German Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere warned of an imminent attack and put the country on a state … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Mumbai-style attackers may target German Parliament.

Brisbane leading the nation in rising online divorce applications

MELBOURNE – The biggest surge of e-divorce applications is in Brisbane, with one in 10 people turning to technology to begin their divorce proceedings, according to statistics.

Queenslanders are leading the charge in applying for online divorces. And soon they could be sent a text message to alert them they are officially single, reports the Courier …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

President Patil to visit UAE, Syria

NEW DELHI – India will seek to boast its ties with the Gulf region during President Pratibha Devisingh Patil’s nine-day visit to the UAE and Syria from Sunday.

President Patil will visit Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah in the UAE, and Damascus and Aleppo in Syria.
Patil is visiting the UAE at the invitation of its President … Original article on : President Patil to visit UAE, Syria.

Obama would be ‘in good shape’ against Palin in potential 2012 Prez race: Biden

WASHINGTON – US Vice President Joe Biden has said former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin has “a good chance” of winning the presidential poll in 2012, but added that President Barack Obama would also fare well in a race against her.

“Were I a Republican senator or a Republican political leader, I would look and say, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Obama would be ‘in good shape’ against Palin in potential 2012 Prez race: Biden.

Afghan election watchdog disqualifies 19 over poll fraud

KABUL – Afghanistan’s election watchdog has disqualified 19 candidates who contested in the September poll, seven of whom are members of the 249-seat parliament, for alleged fraud.

According to the BBC, the disqualifications were announced after the UN-backed Election Complaints Commission (EEC) found most of their … Read more : Afghan election watchdog disqualifies 19 over poll fraud.

‘Pak to lose foreign funding if it severs links with Transparency International’

ISLAMABAD – Foreign funding to Pakistan may reportedly be directly hit if the country’s government cuts its contacts with anti-corruption organization Transparency International Pakistan (TIP).

According to the News, severing contacts with the TIP would mean undoing …. Read the original article  : ‘Pak to lose foreign funding if it severs links with Transparency International’.

Blasphemy laws being misused in Pakistan: Asma Jahangir

LONDON – Pakistan’s noted human rights activist, Asma Jahangir, has said that blasphemy laws were being misused in the country and have caused negative impressions about the country abroad.

Speaking at a function organized by the UK-based Pakistan … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Blasphemy laws being misused in Pakistan: Asma Jahangir.

Children safer in Kabul than New York, Glasgow, London: NATO envoy

KABUL – Mark Sedwill, NATO’S top civilian chief in Afghanistan, has claimed that war-ravaged Kabul is a safer place for children to grow up than most Western cities like New York, London or Glasgow.

Sedwill insisted that despite the danger of unexploded bombs, children in the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Children safer in Kabul than New York, Glasgow, London: NATO envoy.

How far women will go to hide their weight!

LONDON – A new survey has revealed that women resort to a host of bizarre tricks to kid themselves they weigh less than they actually do.

According to the diet website Go Lower, many admit to standing on one leg when they hop on the scales in the hope it [..] Read the original article: here.

Much of the clergy is gay, claims former Catholic theologian

BERLIN – A large share of Catholic clergy is gay and the Church should change its homophobic attitude and teaching, says former publisher of a conservative Catholic magazine.

Theologian David Berger was a correspondent professor for the Pontifical Academy of St Thomas Aquinas in the Vatican, where he said his academic work was watched and censored …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bandit nabbed in dramatic police jet-ski chase

MELBOURNE – The Australian police opened fire on an alleged bandit, sparking a chase that saw an officer commandeering a jet ski to capture the offender.

The drama began when the police officers saw a vehicle with the engine running outside a business at Ashmore on the Gold Coast, reports News.com.au.

One of the accused ran off …. Original article  : Bandit nabbed in dramatic police jet-ski chase.

Terror attack busted following woman’s arrest with 130 kgs of explosives in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani security forces busted a possible terror attack after recovering over 130 kilograms of explosive materials from a woman during an operation carried out in Islamabad.

According to the News, Umtari Bibi was transporting the ammunition from Peshawar to Rawalpindi’s Raja Bazar.

Bibi has been detained and a case has been filed against her, … Read more : Terror attack busted following woman’s arrest with 130 kgs of explosives in Islamabad.

‘Accusations of Brit-Indian honeymooner’s involvements in wife’s murder outrageous’

LONDON – After some South African detectives raised doubts about Brit-Indian business tycoon Shrien Dewani’s account of his role in the incident that led to the murder of his wife, his family members and associates have hit back at the suggestion calling it “outrageous”.

“The family are attending Anni’s funeral and are still very upset. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Accusations of Brit-Indian honeymooner’s involvements in wife’s murder outrageous’.

Brit-Indian honeymooner’s wife’s murder may be part of ‘planned attack’

LONDON – Brit-Indian business tycoon Shrien Dewani, whose wife was killed during their honeymoon trip in Cape Town, has been asked by the local police to return back to that place to identify the killers and help the investigation process, as they fear that Anni was a victim of a ‘planned attack’.

Police … Original source on Gaea Times at : Brit-Indian honeymooner’s wife’s murder may be part of ‘planned attack’.

Pope’s stance on condoms ‘not revolutionary’, says Vatican

LONDON – The Vatican has sought to clarify Pope Benedict’s remarks on the use of condoms, reported in a book to be published this week, insisting the pontiff’s comments were not ‘revolutionary’.

But the statement made clear that the Pope was prepared to consider the use of condoms in certain, limited circumstances, reports the BBC.

Vatican spokesman …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pope’s stance on condoms ‘not revolutionary’, says Vatican.

Hillary Clinton rules out ever running again for US President

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has confirmed that she is not interested in contesting for presidential elections in 2012 or ever again.

“I am very happy doing what I’m doing, and I am not in any way interested in or pursuing anything in elective office,” Politico quoted Clinton, as saying.

“I love what I’m …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

New Herald/Nielsen poll predicts PM Gillard would lose poll if held now

CANBERRA – The latest Herald/Nielsen poll finds Australia’s ruling Labor Party slightly worse off now than at election time on August 21 this year, and adds that if a poll were held now it would most likely lose.

Almost all Australian dailies, including the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age say that the poll finds no …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : New Herald/Nielsen poll predicts PM Gillard would lose poll if held now.

Chinese men don ‘honeybee suits’ for show!

MELBOURNE – Two staff at a China bee farm covered themselves in tens of thousands of bees during a performance in Nanning, capital of southwest China’s Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region.

Yang Chuanquan, the chairman of the board at Chinese firm Nanning Quanjian Bee Farm, covered himself and his colleague head to toe in honeybees, reports the … Read more : Chinese men don ‘honeybee suits’ for show!.

‘When Love Comes’ wins best film at the Golden Horse award

LONDON – ‘When Love Comes’- a Taiwanese family drama bagged best film at the Golden Horse awards – seen as the Chinese-language Oscars – in Taoyuan, northern Taiwan.

The low-budget movie about the lives of four women beat Hong Kong martial arts epic ‘Bodyguards and Assassins’ and ‘China’s Judge’ to win the top award.

China’s Lu Liping …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Karnataka CM Yeddyurappa ignores Delhi, seeks divine solace at Puttaparthi

BANGALORE – Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa has ignored summons to reach Delhi on Monday morning as directed by his party top brass and left for Puttaparthi in Andhra Pradesh to “seek the blessings” of Sri Satya Sai Baba.

“I didn’t have to go to Delhi, our leaders have gone to speak to the party … Original article on : Karnataka CM Yeddyurappa ignores Delhi, seeks divine solace at Puttaparthi.

Britons spend 53 hours a year whining!

LONDON – Researchers has revealed that average Briton spend 53 hours a year whining.

Brits groan for eight minutes and 46 seconds daily, the survey revealed.

According to the study, the average adult complains nearly four times a day and spends almost nine minutes doing it, reports the Daily Express.

This adds up to 1,300 gripe every year.

TV …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

2G scam: JPC ruckus in Parliament, adjourned till Tuesday

NEW DELHI – Both House of Parliament were adjourned till Tuesday as opposition members continued to demand a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum allocation scam.

As soon the house met for the day, opposition members trooped into the Well of the House demanding a Joint Parliamentary Committee probe in the alleged irregularities …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 2G scam: JPC ruckus in Parliament, adjourned till Tuesday.

Airport security check leaves traveller covered in urine

MELBOURNE – A security-check at Detroit Metropolitan Airport left a traveller covered in his own urine following an “invasive” pat-down.

Thomas Sayer, from Michigan, US, was selected for the enhanced search after going through a scanner. The scanner must have picked up his urostomy bag – which collects his urine from an opening in his stomach.

“I …. Original source  : Airport security check leaves traveller covered in urine.

Meet the armless man who can fire and reload a handgun with his feet!

LONDON – He has no arms, but that doesn’t stop Michael from giving up his hobby – shooting.

Michael has no arms, but is still a crack shot. He uses his feet to fire a pistol.

The bandanna-wearing marksman can be seen in a video clip sweeping the Web, lying on the bonnet of a car, …. Source  : Meet the armless man who can fire and reload a handgun with his feet!.

Giridih women rejoice as one among them is ‘crorepati’

GIRIDIH – While the entire Giridih district is celebrating Rahat Taslim’s victory in “Kaun Banega Crorepati” (KBC), it is women who seem to be the happiest.

Be they housewives or high-ranking officials, women here are ecstatic that one among them has achieved the memorable feat.
“We are all very happy for her and extremely …. Original source  : Giridih women rejoice as one among them is ‘crorepati’.

F-16s intercept plane after airspace violation

WASHINGTON – Two F-16s were scrambled Monday to intercept a small plane that flew into restricted airspace above Washington and forced an evacuation of some parts of the White House.

The North American Aerospace Defence Command reported the violation by a Cessna 182 in the early afternoon. The two F-16s guided the aircraft to a … Read : F-16s intercept plane after airspace violation.

Allow Taslima to return to Kolkata: Mahasweta Devi

KOLKATA – Magsaysay Award winning litterateur Mahasweta Devi Monday demanded that Bangladeshi writer Taslima Nasrin be allowed to come back to Kolkata.

She also requested all the people fighting for a political change in the West Bengal, to come forward and fight for the return of Nasrin.
In a written statement to Women Against Oppression … Read more »»».

Uttar Pradesh environmentalists spread awareness about water pollution

ALLAHABAD – Environmentalists completed a 25-days long voyage from Yamunotri glacier in the Himalayas to Prayag in Allahabad on Sunday to spread awareness about water pollution.

Twenty members of Kala Sangam Kendra, an environment and culture conservation group took part in the campaign.

Interacting with the mediapersons, the organiser of the campaign said …. Source article  : Uttar Pradesh environmentalists spread awareness about water pollution.

Manmohan Singh asks universities to groom global leaders

PUTTAPARTHI – The Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, on Monday said with India modernizing and playing a larger role in world affairs, the country will need global leaders in education, entrepreneurship, technology and management.

“As India modernizes, grows and plays …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Disabled team pulls off 108-km river rafting journey

KOLKATA – Proving grit and determination can overcome physical disability, a team of 13 disabled people rowed their bamboo rafts up the Hooghly river from Haldia in East Midnapore to Kolkata — a distance of more than 100 km.

The men set sail Nov 20 from Haldia on two bamboo rafts, specially designed by Garden …. Original source  : Disabled team pulls off 108-km river rafting journey.

S P workers celebrate Mulayam Singh’s birthday in Lucknow

LUCKNOW – Scores of Samajwadi Party workers gathered here on Monday to celebrate the 72nd birthday of their party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav.

Samajwadi Party spokesperson Rajendra Chowdhary said they were celebrating this day as a ‘resolution day’, as they wanted …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : S P workers celebrate Mulayam Singh’s birthday in Lucknow.

Patil assures large Indian Diaspora in UAE of all help

ABU DHABI – President Pratibha Devisingh Patil on Monday assured the 1.75 million-strong expatriate Indian community here of all help, and added that the government in New Delhi is taking up their cause with the UAE to redress their …. Source article  : Patil assures large Indian Diaspora in UAE of all help.

Patil lauds role of Indian expatriates in development of India, UAE

ABU DHABI – Lauding the role of the expatriate community here in India’s growth story, President Pratibha Devisingh Patil today asked them to be prepared to meet the changing needs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The Indian community in the … Read more : Patil lauds role of Indian expatriates in development of India, UAE.

Nobody has asked me to resign: Yeddyurappa

NEW DELHI – Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa, who arrived here on Monday evening to meet the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) top brass said nobody in the party has asked him to quit.

“Nobody has asked me to resign,” Yeddyurappa told … Read : Nobody has asked me to resign: Yeddyurappa.

UAE backs India’s bid for permanent UNSC seat

ABU DHABI – The United Arab Emirates on Monday said that it fully backed India’s bid for permanent membership in the reformed United Nations Security Council.

India has always maintained that a seat on the council would reflect the importance of the G20 nation as its trillion dollar … Original article on : UAE backs India’s bid for permanent UNSC seat.

Maoists kill two villagers in West Midnapore

WEST MIDNAPORE – Suspected Maoists killed two villagers in West Bengal’s West Midnapore District on Monday.

Photon Faren, the brother of one of the villager killed, said the Maoists kidnapped seven villagers from Garmal village and killed two of them.

“I was not there when the incident took place, I …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Maoists kill two villagers in West Midnapore.

Underprivileged children enjoy a day of amusement in Chennai

CHENNAI – Over 2,000 underprivileged children enjoyed a day of entertainment including a platform to display their creative traits at an event, which was organised by the Association Internationale des Etudiants en Sciences Economiques et Commerciales (AIESEC) in Tamil Nadu’s Chennai city on … Read more >>.

Brinda Karat demands Yeddyurappa’s resignation over land scam row

NEW DELHI – Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) leader Brinda Karat on Monday demanded the resignation of Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa for his alleged involvement in the land scam.

Asking Yeddyurappa to step down from his post, Karat … Read more >>.

One killed, four injured in Vadodara chemical factory fire

VADODARA – A worker was killed and four others sustained burn injuries when a massive fire engulfed a chemical factory here on Monday morning.

The fire began at 5 a.m. at the KDAC Chem Private Limited located in the Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC), a …. Original article  : One killed, four injured in Vadodara chemical factory fire.

CWG scam: Former officials remanded to three-days CBI custody

NEW DELHI – A Delhi court on Monday remanded former Commonwealth Games (CWG) Organising Committee (OC) officials T S Darbari, Sanjay Mahendroo and M Jayachandran to three days Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) custody in connection with the alleged irregularities in the Queen’s Baton Relay (QBR) …. Original article  : CWG scam: Former officials remanded to three-days CBI custody.

Indian Army’s munitions disposal to take three months

CHANDIGARH – An Indian Army operation to dispose off 17,000 pieces of scrap ammunition of unknown origin weighing some 50 tonnes begun earlier this month will last three months, an officer said Monday.

Operation Saiyam was begun in Ludhiana district Nov 10 in association with Punjab’s civic authorities and the police. The authorities … Read : Indian Army’s munitions disposal to take three months.

Australia wants to stamp out forced marriages

CANBERRA – The Australian Government wants to know what more can be done to stamp out the practice of forced or servile marriage in the country.

Although not regarded as widespread in Australia, the problem was highlighted in two separate cases this year when courts issued orders barring …. Read the original article  : Australia wants to stamp out forced marriages.

Afghan handicrafts, dry fruits lure retailers at Delhi IITF

NEW DELHI – Handicrafts and several other items made by women from Afghanistan lured retail buyers at the India International Trade (IITF) Fair 2010 here over the weekend.

Traditional clothes and silver jewellery were displayed, while some other traders brought dry fruits, fresh fruits, carpets and spices.

“I … Original article on : Afghan handicrafts, dry fruits lure retailers at Delhi IITF.

Two Taliban leaders killed in Afghanistan

LONDON – Two Taliban leaders have been killed by NATO troops – on each in eastern and western Afghanistan – over the weekend.

The Daily Express quoted the coalition as saying in a statement that a joint Afghan and NATO forces killed Fared Gul …. Source article  : Two Taliban leaders killed in Afghanistan.

Congress leaders demand Orissa CM Patnaik’s resignation over
POSCO land

NEW DELHI – Congress leaders staged a sit in protest here on Tuesday and demanded the resignation of Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik alleging that rules were not followed, while giving land to South Korean steel major POSCO to set … Original article on : Congress leaders demand Orissa CM Patnaik’s resignation over
POSCO land.

AIR, DD operations hit as employees strike work

NEW DELHI – Operations of All India Radio and Doordarshan were affected in different parts of the country as employees of the state-run radio and television channels went on a 48-hour strike from Tuesday morning to press their demand for repeal of the Prasar Bharati Act.

The strike called by the National Federation of Akashvani … Read this article on Gaea Times at : AIR, DD operations hit as employees strike work.

Andhra CM Rosaiah meets Antony, no decision taken on Jagan

NEW DELHI – Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K Rosaiah met Defence Minister A K Antony and Union Law and Justice Minister M Veerappa Moily here on Tuesday to discuss several issues related to his state, including possible Congress party …. Read the original article  : Andhra CM Rosaiah meets Antony, no decision taken on Jagan.

North Korea threatens ‘merciless’ attacks on South (Third Lead)

SEOUL – North Korea blamed South Korea for starting an exchange of artillery Tuesday across their border in the Yellow Sea while threatening “merciless” strikes against its neighbour if it violates that border.

If South Korea intrudes into its territorial waters “even 0.001 millimetres, the revolutionary armed forces of (North Korea) will unhesitatingly continue taking …. Original article  : North Korea threatens ‘merciless’ attacks on South (Third Lead).

Restoration work of flood channel Padshahi Bagh starts in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Restoration work of the historical Padshahi Bagh flood channel has started here, to divert the excess water from the River Jhelum whenever flood situations arise.

The Irrigation and Flood Control Department in Jammu and Kashmir started the …. Source  : Restoration work of flood channel Padshahi Bagh starts in Kashmir.

Ex-Arkansas Guv Huckabee predicts Palin win in 2012

Des Moines (Iowa, US), – Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee believes that if former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin jumps into the 2012 Republican presidential primary, “she may run away with it.”

Huckabee made the remarks in Des Moines, Iowa, where he was in town to headline a meeting of evangelical …. Original source  : Ex-Arkansas Guv Huckabee predicts Palin win in 2012.

Wildlife activists protest elephant killings in Siliguri

SILIGURI – Several voluntary environmental and wildlife organistaions staged a protest here on Tuesday, expressing their anguish over elephants killed by speeding trains in the forest areas.

Interacting with mediapersons, actor and member of the West Bengal Wildlife Board …. Original article  : Wildlife activists protest elephant killings in Siliguri.

20-foot long shark found dead in Chennai port

CHENNAI – A dead 20-foot-long shark has been retrieved from the waters off Chennai Port.

Chennai Port employee said sharks are usually found in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and he had no clue how it had … Read more : 20-foot long shark found dead in Chennai port.

American dancers perform aerial dance on Hyderabad’s Golconda Fort

HYDERABAD – The American dance group ‘Bandloop’ recently performed an aerial dance on the walls of the historical Golconda Fort in Hyderabad to spread awareness about the environment.

The acrobats not only climbed the walls, but also performed a few gravity-defying moves and awe-inspiring acrobatics.

“Rocks … Read more : American dancers perform aerial dance on Hyderabad’s Golconda Fort.

Flock of flamingos gathered in shape of flamingo caught on camera

LONDON – A flock of flamingos in Mexico has been photographed forming the shape of a big flamingo.

Photographer Bobby Haas was trailing a flock of flamingos from a helicopter in Yucatan, Mexico, when he spotted the birds coming together in the shape of a bigger version of themselves.

He had been photographing them for about half …. Source  : Flock of flamingos gathered in shape of flamingo caught on camera.

After 48 years, separated siblings bump into each other by chance!

LONDON – After almost five decades of separation, a brother and sister recently bumped into each other by chance.

According to the Daily Mail, the pair lost contact when Rodger Mason, 68, joined the British Army and went off to fight in Malaya in 1962.

Mason and younger sister Joan, however, were reunited by chance 48 years …. Original source  : After 48 years, separated siblings bump into each other by chance!.

Need for reactivating India-UAE Joint Business Council: President Patil

ABU DHABI – Calling upon members of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry to develop joint ventures with Indian public and private sector companies, President Pratibha Devisingh Patil on Tuesday said there was a need for reactivating the India-UAE Joint Business Council and increase the frequency of exchange of delegations between the two … Read more : Need for reactivating India-UAE Joint Business Council: President Patil.

Blasphemy accused Pak-Christian woman “innocent”: Minister

LAHORE – Pakistan’s Minister for Minority Affairs, Shahbaz Bhatti, has said that Aasia Bibi, the Pakistani Christian woman sentenced to death on charges of blasphemy, is innocent.

“According to my own investigation, it was a personal dispute and she did not commit blasphemy,” the Daily Times quoted Bhatti, as saying.

Bhatti, who said that President Asif Ali … Original article on : Blasphemy accused Pak-Christian woman “innocent”: Minister.

Disabled Brit man rejected for 2000 jobs starts his own business

LONDON – A disabled man in Britain, who was rejected for almost 2000 jobs, has managed to start his own business.

Richard Shakespeare, from Sinfin, Derbyshire, was made redundant in 2009, but he did not waste time and applied for 1,923 jobs, almost six per day, to any employer within commuting distance of his home.

He …. Source  : Disabled Brit man rejected for 2000 jobs starts his own business.

Teachers in UK to bring back traditional reading tests

LONDON – Teachers in Britain are to bring back traditional forms of reading tests after one year of formal schooling.

Ministers gave details of the back-to-basics plans, which include ten-minute ‘informal tests’ based on phonics, where pupils learn the sounds of letters and groups of letters before putting them together.

Six-year-olds will be tested on their …. Original article  : Teachers in UK to bring back traditional reading tests.

Video of topless young boy resisting pat down at US airport sparks outrage

MELBOURNE – Video footage of a topless young boy resisting a pat down at a US airport has sparked outrage and it was viewed on YouTube nearly one million times.

Luke Tait, a Utah Valley University student, filmed the incident while waiting in a security line at Salt Lake City Airport, US, on November 19.

“I was … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Video of topless young boy resisting pat down at US airport sparks outrage.

US teacher accused of having sex with student, 16, freed on 20K dollar bond

NEW YORK – A teacher in Texas, who was charged with sexually assaulting a 16-year-old student and is allegedly pregnant with his child, has been freed on a 20,000-dollar bond.

According to ABC News, Jennifer Riojas, 26, who taught science at Carter-Riverside High School in Fort Worth, Texas, had reportedly began the affair just months after …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US teacher accused of having sex with student, 16, freed on 20K dollar bond.

Malaysian cabbie to serve 14-year jail term after raping underage girls

KUALA LUMPUR – A Malaysian taxi driver, who identifies himself as ‘Uncle’, was jailed for 14 years and ordered to be whipped five times for raping, attempting to rape and molesting seven underage girls.

He was sentenced to 82 years in jail but will only be behind bars for 14 years as the Ampang Sessions Court … Original article on : Malaysian cabbie to serve 14-year jail term after raping underage girls.

Patil appeals for national integration ahead of Guru Tegh Bahadur death anniversary

ABU DHABI – President Pratibha Devisingh Patil on Tuesday urged the people to take inspiration from the teachings of Guru Tegh Bahadur and work unitedly for national integration.

In her message, President Patil, who is on a nine- day visit to the UAE and Syria said: “On the occasion of the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadurji, …. Original source  : Patil appeals for national integration ahead of Guru Tegh Bahadur death anniversary.

German couple in legal soup over ’squeaky bedsprings’ sex

LONDON – A German couple have landed in legal trouble after their bed made too much noise while they were having sex.

Police received ten complaints from neighbours of the pair in the city suburb of Lichtenberg on the night in question.

Stefanie Mueller, 24, and partner Lucas Zetsch, 25, faced a fine for the night of …. Source article  : German couple in legal soup over ’squeaky bedsprings’ sex.

Kate’s ‘???100K’ see-through black dress won William over!

LONDON – Kate Middleton has her see-through black dress to thank for catching Prince William’s eye and winning him over.

The once-30 pounds dress was worn by the Middleton at a university fashion show eight years ago.

Designer Charlotte Todd, who admitted the dress has been languishing at the back of her wardrobe ever since, has been …. Source article  : Kate’s ‘???100K’ see-through black dress won William over!.

Kiran Reddy to be sworn in as Andhra Chief Minister today

HYDERABAD – Andhra Pradesh Assembly Speaker Kiran Kumar Reddy will be sworn-in as new Chief Minister of the State on Thursday.

He will be sworn in as 16th Chief Minister of the state by Governor E S L Narasimhan. eddy, 50, was named as the next chief minister after K Rosaiah resigned on Wednesday, citing personal …. Read the original article  : here.

Ramachandra Guha’s book rules charts yet again (IANS Books)

NEW DELHI – Historian Ramachandra Guha’s “Makers of Modern India” is No.1 for the fourth time on the non-fiction section of bestsellers while “Room” by Emma Donoghue has topped the fiction list this week.

The top 10 in each category are:
Non-Fiction
1. “Makers of Modern India”
Author: Ramachandra Guha
Publisher: Penguin/Viking
Price: Rs.799.00
2. … Original article on : Ramachandra Guha’s book rules charts yet again (IANS Books).

Mexican men blame women for violence

MEXICO CITY – One in four men in Mexico say that rapes and violence against women are associated with the way they act and dress, according to an official survey.

The study by the National Institute of Women also relates abuse and violence against women to their “passive attitude”, since “they are increasingly accepting the blows, [..] Read the original article: here.

India to develop electronic warfare system soon

BANGALORE – India is developing its own radar-based electronic warfare system (EWS) with two test ranges in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh to equip its armed forces for modern wars, a senior defence official said Wednesday.

An indigenously developed radar-based EWS will be ready by 2013, with test ranges at Chitradurga in Karnataka and at Tandur … Read more : India to develop electronic warfare system soon.

Sharad Yadav hails victory of NDA in Bihar

NEW DELHI – Hailing the victory of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the Bihar Assembly polls, Janata Dal-United (JD-U) President Sharad Yadav on Wednesday said the results are the outcome of the socio-economic development programme …. Read the original article  : Sharad Yadav hails victory of NDA in Bihar.

Retirement age of faculty doctors to be raised: Azad

DHARAMSALA – Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Gulam Nabi Azad on Wednesday announced that the Central Government is considering the possibility of raising the retirement age of faculty doctors of medical colleges from 65 to 70 years.

“In the last … Original article on : Retirement age of faculty doctors to be raised: Azad.

Patil lauds UAE’s visionary leadership in education

DUBAI – Lauding the visionary leadership of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in promoting and ensuring affordable education, visiting India President Pratibha Devisingh Patil on Wednesday said India empathizes with these missions and goals.

“I wish to felicitate the visionary leadership of the UAE for the successes in … Read more : Patil lauds UAE’s visionary leadership in education.

Fake currency worth Rs four lakhs seized in West Bengal

SILIGURI – West Bengal Police seized fake Indian currency worth Rs four lakhs near the Siliguri Junction Railway Station on Wednesday.

The police also took into its custody Ajit Miya (22), Haidar Ali (16) and Rahul Sheikh (14) all residents of the West …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Fake currency worth Rs four lakhs seized in West Bengal.

Dr. Karan Singh receives ‘Dayawati Modi Award 2010 for Art, Culture and Education’

NEW DELHI – Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari presented the ‘Dayawati Modi Award 2010 for Art, Culture and Education’ to MP Dr. Karan Singh at a function here on Wednesday.

Expressing his delight after presenting the award, Vice President Ansari said: “I am particularly happy that this year’s award … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Dr. Karan Singh receives ‘Dayawati Modi Award 2010 for Art, Culture and Education’.

2G scam: ED questions corporate lobbyist Radia

NEW DELHI – The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday questioned high profile corporate lobbyist Nira Radia for her alleged role in the 2G Spectrum scam.

The Enforcement Directorate, which recorded Nira Radia’s statement, questioned her about allocation of the 2G Spectrum to … Original source on Gaea Times at : 2G scam: ED questions corporate lobbyist Radia.

BJP JD-U alliance sweeps Bihar Assembly polls, Nitish to take oath on Friday

PATNA – Nitish Kumar will be sworn in as the Chief Minister of Bihar for the second term on Friday as his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-Janata Dal-United (JD-U)- combine has bagged three-fourth majority winning 197 of the 230 seats, results of which have been declared so far.

It is …. Read the original article  : BJP JD-U alliance sweeps Bihar Assembly polls, Nitish to take oath on Friday.

Toll-free helpline launched for Indians in UAE

DUBAI – People of Indian origin living in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), who need help in legal, financial and medical issues, now have a toll-free helpline — the first of its kind for migrant workers by any country in the world.

The toll-free number is 800-46342 — the last five digits of which read …. Original source  : Toll-free helpline launched for Indians in UAE.

CBI arrests top bank officers for loan scam

NEW DELHI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday took into its custody eight people including senior executives of different banks, whose executives gave loans to private builders in exchange for bribes.

Those arrested include Ramchandran Nair, Chief Executive Officer, LIC Housing Finance …. Source  : CBI arrests top bank officers for loan scam.

Air Force Golden Jubilee Institute starts its ‘Silver Jubilee’ celebrations

NEW DELHI – The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal PV Naik, accompanied by Air Force Wives Welfare Association (AFWWA) President, Madhubaala Naik, presided over the annual day function of the Air Force Golden Jubilee Institute on Wednesday, which entered its …. Source  : Air Force Golden Jubilee Institute starts its ‘Silver Jubilee’ celebrations.

US National Endowment for the Arts funds travelling exhibition on Hindu deity Vishnu

NEVADA – National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), a US federal government agency, has awarded a grant to Frist Center for the Visual Arts of Nashville (Tennessee) to support an exhibition on Hindu deity Vishnu.ccording to announcement for 2011 Grant Awards …. Original source  : US National Endowment for the Arts funds travelling exhibition on Hindu deity Vishnu.

US assures shoulder to shoulder support for ‘close friend and ally’ South Korea

WASHINGTON – United States President Barack Obama has said that his country would stand “shoulder to shoulder” with South Korea and stage joint military exercises in response to ‘a provocative, outrageous attack’ by North Korea on its neighbor.

Obama’s comment comes after the North Korean shelling of a South Korean island on … Read more >>.

Bush pardoned fraudster and then became first US president to revoke it

WASHINGTON – Former US president George W. Bush’s claim in his autobiography “Decision Points” that he resolved not to pardon anyone who went outside the formal channels, has been exposed as a lie.

According to Politico, he pardoned an unremorseful Brooklyn sub-prime portage scammer named Isaac Toussie, 36, along with a group … Original article on : Bush pardoned fraudster and then became first US president to revoke it.

4 out of 5 so-called Brit Neets are ‘fit to work but choose to claim benefits’

LONDON – A survey has found that four out of five Neets, youngsters in Britain, who are not in education, employment or training, are capable of working but claim benefits instead.

According to the Education Department figures, more than one … Original source on Gaea Times at : 4 out of 5 so-called Brit Neets are ‘fit to work but choose to claim benefits’.

Kayani orders probe into multi-billion rupee NLC scam implicating army officers

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has ordered a high-level inquiry into the charges of massive financial irregularities in the National Logistics Cell (NLC).

“A serving corps commander has been nominated to head the inquiry along with two major …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kayani orders probe into multi-billion rupee NLC scam implicating army officers.

Suspended in air, US dancers give Delhi building a high

NEW DELHI – High on the glass and steel facade of the multi-storey LIC building in Connaught Place here, they looked like butterflies against a shimmering surface. But they were a group of US dancers suspended by cords and swaying to semi-classical western music.

The hooded dancers were clad in loose red body suits. The …. Original article  : Suspended in air, US dancers give Delhi building a high.

Brit shoplifter’s sentence put off so she can go on holiday

LONDON – A shoplifter in Britain, who mowed down a policeman in her bid to escape, has been allowed to take a pre-booked seven-week holiday to Australia before she is sentenced.

Sapphia Da-Silva was spotted shoplifting at a Gap store and was followed to her car by two police community support officers, and while attempting to …. Original article  : Brit shoplifter’s sentence put off so she can go on holiday.

US woman claims airport security singled her out because of her boobs

LONDON – A woman in the US has complained that she was singled out by airport security for further screening because of her breasts.

Eliana Sutherland, who was flying from Orlando International Airport, told her local news station that two male TSA workers had been staring at her chest and singled her out for additional screening.

“It …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US woman claims airport security singled her out because of her boobs.

42 years for Brit woman to pay off parking fine debt

LONDON – A jobless woman in Britain, who was issued 160 tickets for illegally parking her car, and racked up a bill of 11,000 pounds for failing to pay up, will now take at least forty-two years to pay the fines.

Charlotte Williams, 21, has now been ordered to hand over 5 pounds a week until …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 42 years for Brit woman to pay off parking fine debt.

Special blue-tinted lighting installed in UK school to wake up drowsy pupils

MELBOURNE – A British high school has installed special blue-tinted lighting to combat the boredom that teenage students often go through in the classroom.

The system, developed by Philips electronics corporation, is being tested in two laboratories at Epsom and Ewell High School in Surrey, southeastern England.

The SchoolVision technology aims to compensate for a biological quirk … Read : Special blue-tinted lighting installed in UK school to wake up drowsy pupils.

US seeks NAB help following flood of complaints of “misuse of funds” provided to Pak

ISLAMABAD – Concerned over the “possible misuse of funds” aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s economy, the United States has sought the assistance of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) to ensure transparency in the utilisation of funds being provided to Pakistan through non-governmental organisations under the Kerry-Lugar Act.

The USAID delegation, comprising Daniel P. Altman and Charles D. [..] Read the original article: here.

National Dog Show’s Surprise Winner: Clooney!

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- Clooney a cute looking copper colored Irish setter amazed everyone by bagging the title of the winner in the 2010 National Dog show. The event was endorsed by Purina. This event was shown on NBC network on Thanksgiving and needless to say the avid dog lovers stayed hooked to their TV sets. … Original source on Gaea Times at : National Dog Show’s Surprise Winner: Clooney!.

Mexican distiller unveils ‘world’s costliest’ tequila bottle worth 3.5mln dlrs

NEW YORK – A Mexican distillery has unveiled a tequila bottle worth 3.5 million dollars-apparently the most expensive in the world.

The tequila, from Hacienda La Capilla, comes in a bottle covered with 4,000 diamonds weighing a whopping 328 carats, reports the New York Post.

Nearly, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mexican distiller unveils ‘world’s costliest’ tequila bottle worth 3.5mln dlrs.

British school marries off minors

LONDON – A primary school in Britain married off a five-year-old girl and six-year-old boy to help them improve their vocabulary by writing about their first-hand experience.

The bizarre marriage took place in the local parish church in Worcester, with a vicar, registrar and parents watching on in pride, The Sun reported Friday.
A Mercedes …. Original article  : British school marries off minors.

Women’s kabaddi team win’s India’s 11th Asiad gold (Afternoon Lead)

GUANGZHOU – The Indian women’s kabaddi team won India’s its 11th gold at the Asian Games here Friday, while three boxers and the men’s kabaddi team remained in the gold hunt on the 14th day of competitions.

Suman Kundu was in the hunt for a bronze in women’s wrestling.
India now have 54 medals, comprising … Original article on : Women’s kabaddi team win’s India’s 11th Asiad gold (Afternoon Lead).

Rory Peck Award for moving story about impoverished kids in Mumbai

LONDON – British director and cameramen Nick Read has won a special award for a moving story about the lives of impoverished children in the Indian city of Mumbai.

The Rory Peck Awards pay tribute to the freelance camera operators who risk their lives to bring pictures from difficult and dangerous places.

This year’s special SONY Professional …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Rory Peck Award for moving story about impoverished kids in Mumbai.

Pakistan has not fulfilled its promise to bring 26/11 masterminds to justice: Chidambaram

MUMBAI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Friday said that Pakistan has not fulfilled its promise to bring 26/11 Mumbai terror attack masterminds to justice.

After paying tribute to those killed in the 26/11 attack, Chidambaram said: “Pakistan made many promises to us that they will bring to justice masterminds of 26/11 but that has … Original article on : Pakistan has not fulfilled its promise to bring 26/11 masterminds to justice: Chidambaram.

Parliament pays tribute to 26/11 martyrs

NEW DELHI – Both Houses of Parliament on Friday paid tributes to the martyrs of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack.

Recalling the attacks, Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar said the horrific memories of the tragic attack were still etched in the minds.

“It was sheer grit of determined Indians that enabled the nation to face the crisis and …. Source article  : Parliament pays tribute to 26/11 martyrs.

Target killers pushing Balochistan towards Dark Ages: Chief Minister

QUETTA – Those involved in the target killings of teachers, doctors and other professionals in Balochistan are pushing the people of the province towards the Dark Ages, Chief Minister Nawab Muhammad Aslam Raisani said on Thursday.

“Why is our new generation and youth being deprived of education,” The News quoted Raisani, as saying, while attending a … Read more : Target killers pushing Balochistan towards Dark Ages: Chief Minister.

Pak seeking full membership status in SCO “as soon as possible”

DUSHANBE – Pakistan has expressed its desire to upgrade its status as a full member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) “as soon as possible”.

“Development is high on Pakistan’s priorities. We are keen to participate actively in promoting the SCO’s economic agenda. We wish to associate ourselves with the SCO’s Entrepreneurs Council, the SCO inter-bank …. Source  : Pak seeking full membership status in SCO “as soon as possible”.

Now, odour-trapping undies to stop flatulence in its tracks!

MELBOURNE – Underwear designed to stop flatulence in its tracks could be the ultimate solution for embarrassing situations.

The odour-trapping men’s jocks are infused with nanotechnology designed to prevent less than savoury smells passing through fabric, reports the Herald Sun.

Gilbert Huynh, the Australian entrepreneur behind the wind-breaking scheme, however, admitted that he was powerless to prevent … Original source on Gaea Times at : Now, odour-trapping undies to stop flatulence in its tracks!.

‘Mortified’ Muslim women barred from US skating rink for not removing headscarves

WASHINGTON – The Council on American-Islamic Relations has filed a complaint with Connecticut’s Human Rights Commission against a roller-skating rink in Vernon after two Muslim women were barred from entering the rink because they were wearing headscarves.

Forty-year-old Marisol Rodriguez-Colon and her female friend were “mortified” after being barred entry to the Ron-A-Roll rink, and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

How French granny stuck in loo for 3 weeks kept her spirits up

SYDNEY – An elderly French woman, who was trapped in her windowless bathroom for three weeks, kept herself calm by taking showers and brushing her teeth.

The 69-year-old grandmother ’s ordeal started when she accidentally broke the lock on her bathroom door in the Paris suburb of Epinay-sous-Senart on November 1.

“She was at her wits’ end,” … Read more >>.

Sex-tainted top Canadian commander quits

TORONTO – The top commander of Canadian forces in Afghanistan, who lost his pivotal job in May after his sexual romps with a subordinate officer and now faces a court martial, has quit the military.

Brigadier-General Daniel Menard was relieved of his duties in Kandahar and ordered home for engaging in “sex in theatre” … Read : Sex-tainted top Canadian commander quits.

China slams US report on its religious status

BEIJING – China on Thursday slammed a US report concerning the former’s religious situation, saying it firmly opposes Washington intervening into China’s domestic affairs by issuing such a report.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei made the remarks when asked to comment on the report.

The U.S. State Department released its annual international religious freedom report on …. Read the original article  : China slams US report on its religious status.

First Qantas A380 flight takes off since engine explosion incident

SYDNEY – The first Qantas A380 passenger flight has taken off from Sydney Airport after it suffered a setback following a midair engine explosion earlier this month on one of the aircraft in its fleet triggered a global safety review.

Qantas’s six A380s have been grounded for more than three weeks following the incident.

News.com.au quoted …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Tips on how to carry out burglaries, by Japanese thief

LONDON – A Japanese thief, who calls himself as a gentleman cat burglar, has written a book on how one can carry out burglaries.

Hajime Karasuyama, the pen name of the career burglar, who wrote ‘Occupation, Thief; Annual income, Y30 million’, provides tips on how to gain access to a locked property and then get away …. Source  : Tips on how to carry out burglaries, by Japanese thief.

World’s most expensive row of houses goes on sale for 400m pounds

LONDON – The world’s most expensive row of terraced houses in Britain has gone on sale for a staggering 400 million pounds.

The Cornwall Terrace, in London’s Regent’s Park, consists of eight double-fronted mansions, each with a value of between 29 and 60 million pounds.

Architect Sir John Nash designed the row of properties as part of [..] Read the original article: here.

Turkey Soup Recipes Create Buzz

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- With the Thanksgiving dinner creating a refrigerator full of leftovers, people have been scrambling the web for a an alternative to dumping the meat into the garbage bin. While most have invested a lot of money on the bird and the stuffing for the special day, wasting the leftovers could …. Source  : Turkey Soup Recipes Create Buzz.

Punjab universities see increase in African student population

LUDHIANA – Foreign students, especially from Africa, are getting enrolled in large numbers for various courses offered by universities and educational institutions in Punjab.

Universities in the state are seeing a sharp increase in the enrollment of students especially from Nigeria, Tanzania, …. Source article  : Punjab universities see increase in African student population.

God Man Asaram Bapu’s hermitage demolished in Gujarat

NAVSARI – Navsari District administration officials on Saturday demolished the ashram or hermitage of God Man Asaram Bapu.

Naveen Kashkar, the deputy head of the village council of the district’s Chikhali tehsil or block, said the spiritual guru had encroached on the land.

“Asaram Bapu had illegally occupied …. Original source  : God Man Asaram Bapu’s hermitage demolished in Gujarat.

‘US-S. Korea military drills “not directed” at Beijing’

WASHINGTON – The United States has assured China that its joint military exercises with South Korea are “not directed” at Beijing.

The four-day exercises starting on Sunday come in the wake of North Korea’s attack on a South Korean island, and would …. Original source  : ‘US-S. Korea military drills “not directed” at Beijing’.

How Obamas’ daughters live a normal life

WASHINGTON – Despite being the daughters of US President Barack Obama, the nation’s first kids are living a normal life.

Most of the time, the Obamas said their daughters Malia, 12, and her 9-year-old sister Sasha don’t listen to the news or read the newspaper headlines; …. Original article  : How Obamas’ daughters live a normal life.

Asian men jailed in UK for grooming young girls to become sex slaves

LONDON – In what is believed to be the biggest case of serial sex abuse ever uncovered in Britain, nine men, all Asians except one, have been jailed for grooming up to 100 young girls to become their sex slaves.

The gang roamed the Derby streets in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Andhra CM Kiran Reddy in Delhi to discuss state cabinet with Sonia Gandhi

NEW DELHI – Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Kiran Kumar Reddy arrived in New Delhi on Saturday to meet Congress president Sonia Gandhi and other senior party leaders.

Reddy said that he was in the Indian capital to meet Gandhi and thank her for giving him the responsibility of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chhattisgarh Police arrest Maoist rebel in Bijapur

BIJAPUR – Chhattisgarh Police on Saturday confirmed the arrest of a senior Maoist rebel during a routine operation near Bijapur.

The arrested Maoist was identified as Median Gucha alias Aitu. Police said that he has confessed to the killing of Special Police … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Chhattisgarh Police arrest Maoist rebel in Bijapur.

‘Obama cannot award permanent membership of UNSC to India’: Pak envoy to UN

KARACHI – US President Barack Obama cannot award the permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council to India, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UN Abdullah Hussain Haroon has said.

Haroon said that voting was necessary for this purpose, and India could not become a member until all the permanent members of …. Original source  : ‘Obama cannot award permanent membership of UNSC to India’: Pak envoy to UN.

‘Depressed ex-NY cop threatened to kill Obama to grab attention,’ family claims

NEW YORK – The family members of an ex-New York cop who has been busted for threatening to kill US President Barack Obama, has defended him saying that it was just a “way of getting attention”.

The New York Daily News quoted a federal affidavit as saying that Secret Service agents had …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Depressed ex-NY cop threatened to kill Obama to grab attention,’ family claims.

Ed Miliband says he’s proud to be a ’socialist’

LONDON – UK Labour Party leader Ed Miliband said that he is a socialist, and added that he wanted to be a part of the student protests this week over the rise in tuition fees, but could not manage time as he was busy “doing something else.”

According to the Telegraph, the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ed Miliband says he’s proud to be a ’socialist’.

Mumbai, Kolkata residents pays homage to 26/11 victims

MUMBAI/KOLKATA – Survivors and relatives of 26/11 Mumbai attack victims paid homage to the martyrs in different parts of Mumbai and Kolkata on Friday.

Kia Scherr, who lost her husband and daughter in the attack, organized a social event called One Life Alliance … Read : Mumbai, Kolkata residents pays homage to 26/11 victims.

Nepal hails shortest man, shuns tallest woman

KATHMANDU – He is hailed as a “Little Buddha” and draws amazed crowds wherever he goes. While the Himalayan nation celebrates Khagendra Thapa Magar’s world record as the shortest man at 22 inches, the story of Urmila Chaudhary, the tallest teen in the country, is that of discrimination and suffering.

Though the same age as …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nepal hails shortest man, shuns tallest woman.

Spanish woman ‘claims’ she owns the Sun

NEW YORK – A 49-year-old Spanish lady has claimed to be the owner of Sun.

Angeles Duran from Spain’s soggy region of Galicia said that she registered the star at a local notary public as being her property after learning about the American man, …. Source article  : Spanish woman ‘claims’ she owns the Sun.

Karnataka Lokayukta questions Yeddyurappa on parallel probe into land scam

HASSAN – Karnataka’s Lokayukta Justice N Santosh Hegde has questioned the state government and particularly Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa over the issue of a parallel investigation into land scam allegations, and said that he will complete the inquiry pending before [..] Read the original article: here.

Delhi court to decide on sedition charge against Roy, Geelani

NEW DELHI – A Delhi metropolitan magistrate’s court is likely to decide Saturday whether criminal proceedings should initiated against hard line Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani and writer-activist Arundhati Roy on charges of sedition for their alleged anti-India statements.

Metropolitan Magistrate Navita Kumari Bagha, who pulled … Original source on Gaea Times at : Delhi court to decide on sedition charge against Roy, Geelani.

“Terror groups in Pak gotten more activated, gaining public
support”: Musharraf

LAGOS – With mujahedeen groups gaining more “public support and sympathy” in Pakistan, extremism is on the rise in parts of the country, former president Pervez Musharraf has admitted.

“Extremism is rising in certain pockets of society of Pakistan because of … religious … Original article on : “Terror groups in Pak gotten more activated, gaining public
support”: Musharraf.

UAE sets two Guinness records

DUBAI – A sword-throwing expert and a traditional dance troupe have powered the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to two new spots in the Guinness World Records.

In a sword-throwing competition held in Fujairah, 18-year-old Hazaa Sulaiman Al Shehhi threw a sword up to a height of 21.275 metres and later caught it by its handle, …. Original source  : UAE sets two Guinness records.

Pak announces 10-million-rupee reward for spying against Taliban

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Government has announced a reward of ten million rupees to anyone providing information about the Taliban.

“The government will make arrangements to settle the informers and their families anywhere in the country, even abroad, if they fear that the Taliban might hurt them,” the Daily Times quoted Interior Minister Rehman Malik, as …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pak announces 10-million-rupee reward for spying against Taliban.

New WikiLeaks files ‘to reveal American criticism of Mandela’

WASHINGTON – Whistleblower website ‘WikiLeaks’ would soon reveal that Nelson Mandela is among the world leaders believed to have been criticised US diplomatic files that are to be leaked.

According to the Daily Mail, disclosures about the 92-year-old ex-South African President are among three million secret American diplomatic missives obtained by WikiLeaks.

Mandela, who stepped …. Read the original article  : New WikiLeaks files ‘to reveal American criticism of Mandela’.

Brit-Indian bride was upset on her honeymoon flight to Cape Town, father claims

London, Nov 28 053(ANI): The father of the Brit-Indian bride, who was murdered during her honeymoon in Cape Town this month, has claimed that Anni Dewani was crying and had refused to sit next to her husband on their honeymoon flight.

“We have heard that the air hostess noticed they were sitting separately and Anni was …. Original article  : Brit-Indian bride was upset on her honeymoon flight to Cape Town, father claims.

US embassy, ISPR deny presence of US forces in Quetta

ISLAMABAD – The United States embassy has denied reports that Pakistan has allowed the US military and its coalition partners in Afghanistan to maintain a presence in Quetta, Balochistan.

“This reporting is a misrepresentation… There is no permanent US presence in Quetta,” the Daily Times quoted the US embassy spokesman, as saying.

Instead, a US team occasionally … Read more »»».

8 dead, 7 injured in cargo plane crash in Karachi residential area

KARACHI – A Russian-made cargo plane crashed near residential apartments in Karachi, seconds after taking off from the city’s airport today, killing all eight people on board and injuring seven others.

“It was an IL-76 cargo plane. It was going to Khartoum. It had eight people on board,” Geo TV quoted Civil Aviation Authority spokesman Pervez [..] Read the original article: here.

Vladimir Nabokov’s unpublished love letters released

LONDON – Novelist Vladimir Nabokov’s love letters written to his wife, Vera, reveal a new side to one of the 20th century’s best-loved authors.

More than 300 letters have been collected by the Nabokovs’ son, Dmitry, and are to be published in English next year. A selection of the letters appeared last week, in their original …. Source  : Vladimir Nabokov’s unpublished love letters released.

Balochistan problems cannot be resolved at gunpoint: Sharif

QUETTA – Expressing concern over the worsening law and order situation in Balochistan, Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) chief Nawaz Sharif has said that the problems of the province cannot not be addressed through brute force or solved at gunpoint.

Sharif was addressing a news conference at a Quetta hotel, the Daily Times reports.

He also presided over …. Original source  : Balochistan problems cannot be resolved at gunpoint: Sharif.

Malik takes U-turn over quizzing Musharraf on Benazir murder case

ISLAMABAD – In a surprise move, Pakistan Interior Minister Rehman Malik has backtracked on his stance that the government would send questionnaire to former president Pervez Musharraf in connection with December 2007 assassination of former premier Benazir Bhutto.

The Nation quoted Malik, as saying that the government had taken no decision to include Musharraf in the … Read more : Malik takes U-turn over quizzing Musharraf on Benazir murder case.

Handful of Argentines could recapture Falklands, says UK military brass

LONDON – Senior British military sources have warned that a handful of Argentines may make an attempt to seize the Falkland Islands after a gap of almost 28 years.

Although garrisoned by 500 British soldiers and a few Typhoon aircraft, it would just take the capturing of the only airfield in the capital Port Stanley to … Read more : Handful of Argentines could recapture Falklands, says UK military brass.

Prince William has ‘no desire to become king’

LONDON – Prince William has dismissed rumours that he could become the next King in place of the Prince of Wales.

Despite his surge in popularity following his engagement to Kate Middleton, royal aides insist William has “no desire to climb the ladder of kingship”.

Two recent polls by ICM and YouGov that found that most people … Read more : Prince William has ‘no desire to become king’.

UK Islamic hate preacher Choudary to be given Channel 4 slot

LONDON – A radical Muslim, who led the banned group al-Muhajiroun, is to be handed his own program on Britain’s Channel 4 amid claims that Islamists have been allowed to monopolise the broadcaster’s coverage.

Anjem Choudary, who was also involved with the banned group Islam4UK which planned a protest march through Wootton Bassett, will have …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : UK Islamic hate preacher Choudary to be given Channel 4 slot.

Another Qantas plane grounded in Australia following engine failure

LONDON – Within hours of Qantas resuming its services, QF1, which was bound for London from Sydney, was cancelled after a loud noise emerged from the engine while the aircraft was taxiing towards the runway.

The flight, which was scheduled to take off at 6.05 p.m. on Saturday, was grounded and Qantas was forced to postpone … Read more »»».

Pak Parliament, not PPP, to decide Blasphemy Law: Jehangir Badr

LAHORE – The Pakistan People’s Party is not taking any decision to amend Section 295-C of the Blasphemy Law, since it is the Parliament’s job.

The party will accept any decision that it takes in this regard, PPP Secretary General Jehangir Badr has said.

“The PPP strongly believes in supremacy of the Parliament and will allow … Read more : Pak Parliament, not PPP, to decide Blasphemy Law: Jehangir Badr.

Talks would lead to comprehensive peace for Middle East: Patil

DAMASCUS – President Pratibha Devisingh Patil has said India remains hopeful that talks would lead to a comprehensive peace process for a final resolution of the Middle East conflict.

In her speech at a banquet hosted in her honour by the President of Syria, Bashar Al-Assad, Patil said: “We remain hopeful that the talks and negotiations [..] Read the original article: here.

Couple says ‘I do’ for a record 85th time in 6 months!

LONDON – Meet honeymooners Mark and Denise Duffield-Thomas who said ‘I do’ 85 times, breaking the world record, in just six months!

As the winners of the ‘Ultimate Job in the World’ contest organised by ‘Runaway Bride and Groom’ company, the couple had been road testing the best locations for weddings and honeymoons and in the …. Source article  : Couple says ‘I do’ for a record 85th time in 6 months!.

Gordon Brown weak, unstable: US diplomats told Obama

LONDON – US diplomats had described Britain’s former prime minister Gordon Brown and his government as weak and unstable in secret briefings to US President Barack Obama, which could be revealed in Wikileaks’ latest disclosures, a media report said.

Daily Express Sunday quoted Downing Street sources as saying that the imminent release of diplomatic files …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Gordon Brown weak, unstable: US diplomats told Obama.

Indian cultural fest enthrals Dhaka

DHAKA – Noted Hindustani classical singer Rita Ganguly enthralled the audience at the launch of a week-long Indian cultural festival – called “Ananda Jagya” – in the Bangladesh capital.

The festival, to go on till Dec 3, would be held simultaneously in Dhaka, Chittagong and Rajshahi. The festival will cover a wide range of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Transparency International won’t be allowed to work in Pak: Malik

RAWALPINDI – Transparency International (TI) is a detective agency, and the organisation will not be allowed to work in Pakistan, Interior Minister Rehman Malik has said.

Talking to media persons during a visit to the FIA headquarters on Saturday, Malik said TI was a detective agency, which started its work in Geneva, The News reports.

According to …. Original article  : Transparency International won’t be allowed to work in Pak: Malik.

TSA pat-down rules ‘handing terrorists a victory,’ says privacy expert

WASHINGTON – The time spent in the overaggressive pat-downs are a waste of valuable resources and could better be used attempting to identify likely terrorists, says privacy expert.

Fred H. Cate, privacy expert in the Indiana University sent a letter, applauding leaders of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation for their close scrutiny of …. Original article  : TSA pat-down rules ‘handing terrorists a victory,’ says privacy expert.

India kept out of Afghan meet despite Pakistan admitting it was a mistake

LONDON – India was kept out of a meeting held in Turkey on Afghanistan to appease Pakistan, though Islamabad opined that excluding India from such regional structures would be a “mistake”, revealed a WikiLeaks expose of a secret cable from the US embassy in Ankara.

At a meeting with US Under Secretary of State for … Read more : India kept out of Afghan meet despite Pakistan admitting it was a mistake.

Modern Aussie blokes can’t fix a leaky tap but can bake a cake!

MELBOURNE – A new survey has revealed that men are picking up new skills around the home as basic handyman tasks are outsourced.

A survey by McCrindle research found out that the modern Aussie bloke can’t fix a leaky tap or build a tree house but he’s more adept at baking a cake or changing nappies …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Modern Aussie blokes can’t fix a leaky tap but can bake a cake!.

Kiwi broadcasting board dismisses topless mudbath shots as inoffensive

WELLINGTON – A complaint about models on New Zealand’s Next Top Model posing topless in a mud pool has been dismissed by the Broadcasting Standards Authority (BSA) as being non-sexual and inoffensive.

An episode of the reality television show, which was broadcast on TV3 in August, included shots of contestants posing for a female photographer, wearing [..] Read the original article: here.

“Hangover Helpers” to clean up post-party houses!

COLORADO – A couple of graduates from the University of Colorado have started a business called the “Hangover Helpers”, which cleans houses after parties and also delivers breakfast for 15 dollars per roommate.

CU graduates Alex Vere-Nicoll and Marc Simons, who are co-founders of the business, have been marketing their new business on the Boulder campus …. Read the original article  : “Hangover Helpers” to clean up post-party houses!.

Teacher who told female student she “had nice tits” allowed to teach again

WELLINGTON – A Kiwi male teacher who made ‘repeated sexualised comments’ to female students would be able to teach again.

The New Zealand Teachers’ Disciplinary Tribunal launched an investigation into the unnamed teacher on March 24.

The teacher, who had already resigned from his school, admitted a series of comments to female Year 11 students.

It included telling …. Source article  : Teacher who told female student she “had nice tits” allowed to teach again.

Aussie woman charged with raping another woman

BRISBANE – An Australian woman has been charged with raping another woman in the ladies toilet of Brisbane’s Caxton Hotel.

Anne-Marie O’Loughlin, 25, is said to have kissed the other woman at the nightclub in the early hours of November 29 last year when she went alone to the bathroom, the Brisbane Times reported.

Opening the … Read more >>.

Protecting Pak’s integrity to be priority during three-year extended term: Kayani

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Army Chief General Ashfaq Kayani has announced the priorities of his three-year extended term, saying that his efforts were concentrated on the war on terror and restoration of peace in country.

According to the military sources, during a meeting in Islamabad, Kayani openly expressed his viewpoint over internal and national security affairs.

The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Protecting Pak’s integrity to be priority during three-year extended term: Kayani.

Speeding Swedish drivers’ fines to fund lottery for safe drivers!

SYDNEY – It’s the most innovative way yet, to encourage safe driving practices in Sweden – a lottery for law-abiding drivers – funded by fines from speeding motorists.

The Swedish National Society for Road Safety conducted the trial after it was suggested as a means of rewarding people who obeyed speed limits in Stockholm rather than … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Speeding Swedish drivers’ fines to fund lottery for safe drivers!.

Two militants arrested in Imphal

IMPHAL – Manipur Police arrested two cadre of Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP) militant outfit.

Jogesandra Hoagie, Assistant Superintendent of Thoubal District Police said the duo arrested were involved in a series of crimes.

The police officials have also seized huge amount of drugs.

Based on specific information input that some huge drugs were being smuggled, a team … Original source on Gaea Times at : Two militants arrested in Imphal.

1 in 10 Brits use mobiles for online shopping

LONDON – A recent survey has found that one in ten Britons is expected to do their online shopping this year using their mobile phone rather than a computer.

New research of 4,000 consumers from Tesco Direct said nearly half of those using smart phones shop online while watching television. One in six said they expected … Read more : 1 in 10 Brits use mobiles for online shopping.

Under-funded IAEA struggling to cope, say experts

WASHINGTON – A former deputy director of the IAEA, the United Nations nuclear watchdog, has expressed concern over the poor amount of funds available to the organisation, and warned that if this issue is not addressed, a proliferation disaster is on the cards.

Fox News quoted Olli Heinonen, as saying that the underfunded agency is facing … Read : Under-funded IAEA struggling to cope, say experts.

Cyber Monday Deals 2010 Attract Shoppers

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- Though the Black Friday is gone, the shoppers are still hopeful as Cyber Monday is still awaiting for them. Cyber Monday Deals 2010 have gained attention of the customers with their lucrative deals both for male and female. All the shops have given their bast possible deals at their minimum price … Original article on : Cyber Monday Deals 2010 Attract Shoppers.

Recession forces US lesbian resort to welcome men too!

LONDON – Key West’s only lesbian-exclusive resort Pearl’s Rainbow is going ‘all welcome’ for the first time over this Thanksgiving weekend because of economic hard times.

The resort was honored in October by Curve, the best-selling lesbian magazine, as the guesthouse that had the greatest impact on lesbian culture in the past 20 years.

Heather Carruthers, …. Source article  : Recession forces US lesbian resort to welcome men too!.

Jaitapur nuclear plant in Maharashtra gets green signal

MUMBAI – The 9900-Mega Watt Nuclear Power Project of Jaitapur, a small port situated in Maharashtra Ratnagiri district received green nod by Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh.

“It was not an easy task… It is a balancing act. I do not expect all environmentalists to be happy with this decision. I am prepared for quite a few …. Read the original article  : Jaitapur nuclear plant in Maharashtra gets green signal.

Ten Maoists surrender in Andhra Pradesh

VISAKHAPATNAM – Ten Maoists surrendered before the police in Narsipatnam town of Visakhapatnam district on Sunday.

According to police sources, the group led by G Chinakka voluntarily surrendered before the District Police OSD (Operations) Trivikram Verma.

All the rebels are facing charges of attacks on village sarpanchs during Maoists shutdown call in the State.

According to sources, …. Original source  : Ten Maoists surrender in Andhra Pradesh.

Russian Foreign Minister to visit India

NEW DELHI – Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will be here today on a day-long visit to discuss details of President Dmitry Medvedev’s visit to the country in December.

Lavrov will meet Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna.

Bilateral relations between the both nations have blossomed in recent years, India being … Read more : Russian Foreign Minister to visit India.

Oregon mosque hit by arson after bomb plot

Corvallis (Oregon, US), – Police in Corvallis, Oregon, have said that the fire at an Islamic centre was started intentionally.

Though no one was injured in the incident, the blaze gutted one room of the Salman Alfarisi Islamic Center, the BBC reports.

Police said that the recently arrested Somali-born teenager Mohamed Osman Mohamud, 19, had studied there.

“We … Original article on : Oregon mosque hit by arson after bomb plot.

William and Kate to share ‘Palace kiss’ post-wedding

LONDON – The Royal couple, Prince William and Kate Middleton, will share a kiss on the balcony of Buckingham Palace following their wedding next year.

The scenes would echo those seen on July 29, 1981 when the newly married Princess Diana and Prince Charles sparked deafening applause when they broke the Royal protocol and kissed on … Original article on : William and Kate to share ‘Palace kiss’ post-wedding.

India, China to hold border talks

BEIJING – India and China will hold border talks to resolve the long-running boundary dispute between the two nations and lay the ground for Chinese premier Wen Jiabao’s visit to New Delhi next month.

National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon, who arrived here on Sunday, will hold talks with State Councillor Dai Bingguo, China’s designated special representative … Read more : India, China to hold border talks.

Radical UK Muslims’ secret conference scrapped following cops’ intervention

LONDON – UK police stopped radical Muslims from organising a secret Islamic International Revival Conference featuring hate preachers Omar Bakri and Sheikh Faisal on Saturday in London’s East End, in which the duo were scheduled to appear by video link from overseas to address the delegates.

Faisal was deported to Jamaica in 2007 for urging …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Confronting sexism may be ‘antidote’ for workplace distress

WASHINGTON – A new study has revealed that women who publicly confront instances of sexism in the workplace tend to feel more capable and competent in their jobs and about themselves in general.

The research from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln examined how both men and women perceive, react to and relate to everyday episodes of … Read : Confronting sexism may be ‘antidote’ for workplace distress.

Binge-drinking culture ‘creating a generation of angry young girls’

LONDON – Experts have claimed that more and more girls are binge drinking and – tired of being regarded as the passive sex – are emulating male behaviour.

They have said that the number of teenage girls who are physically aggressive and lash out at school and at home has risen at an alarming rate.

The …. Source article  : Binge-drinking culture ‘creating a generation of angry young girls’.

N. Korea to develop nuclear capability for peaceful use

NEW DELHI – A North Korean daily has said that his country is actively constructing light-water reactors, but only for peaceful use.

The Rodong Sinmun daily said in a report that “thousands” of centrifuges are in operation at a uranium enrichment plant.he move was for “peaceful use,” the article said, adding that the development and use …. Original article  : N. Korea to develop nuclear capability for peaceful use.

A.P. Singh is new CBI chief

NEW DELHI – A.P. Singh, special director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), was Tuesday appointed the new chief of the agency that is in the spotlight for its probes into several high-profile corruption scandals.

A.P. Singh, 58, a 1974-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Jharkhand cadre, will succeed Ashwani …. Source  : A.P. Singh is new CBI chief.

London Weather Condition To Worsen

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM (GaeaTimes.com)- Tuesday morning, the residents of London woke up to witness snowfall and blizzard that has by now affected the majority of UK. The weather condition is set to worsen, as per the prediction of the met office. The forecast says that up to 8 cm of snowfall can take place …. Read the original article  : London Weather Condition To Worsen.

Cinnamon can replace toxic chemicals used to create gold nanoparticles

WASHINGTON – A new study has found a method that could replace nearly all of the toxic chemicals required to make gold nanoparticles. The missing ingredient can be found in nearly every kitchen’s spice cabinet – cinnamon.

Gold nanoparticles, tiny pieces of gold so small that they can’t be seen by the naked eye, are used … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Cinnamon can replace toxic chemicals used to create gold nanoparticles.

AP Singh appointed new CBI director

NEW DELHI – Senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer A.P Singh was on Tuesday appointed the new Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a period of two years.

Singh takes over from Ashwini Kumar.

The Appointments’ Committee of the Union Cabinet headed by the Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, cleared the name of Singh, a …. Read the original article  : AP Singh appointed new CBI director.

Soon, tech that would disable cell phones in cars for safety

WASHINGTON – In a bid to stop the growing number of deaths and injuries related to distracted driving, the U.S. Department of Transportation is reportedly considering adding technology to automobiles that would disable cell phones.

“I think the technology is there. And I think you’re going to see the technology become adaptable in automobiles to disable …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Soon, tech that would disable cell phones in cars for safety.

Christopher Columbus was Polish, not Portuguese: Historian

LONDON – A new book has suggested that the man credited with discovering America was actually the son of exiled Polish King Vladislav III and not the son of a humble craftsman from Italy.

The origins of Christopher Columbus have long been a subject of speculation. Academics have now concluded that the explorer was actually a …. Original source  : Christopher Columbus was Polish, not Portuguese: Historian.

Indian Army’s scrap munition disposal a learning experience

LUDHIANA – An Indian Army operation – so far its biggest exercise to destroy scrap munitions – is proving to be a great learning platform for defence personnel, who believe the experience would come handy in crisis situations.

“This is just like on-the-job training for our officers. We are learning so many things here. This …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indian Army’s scrap munition disposal a learning experience.

Singapore nightspot condemned for free entry offer to those with condoms

KUALA LUMPUR – A nightspot in Singapore has been condemned by health counsellors after it offered free entry to patrons who carried condoms with them.

According to Sin Chew Daily, the club, The Butter Factory, offered patrons free entry between 10pm and midnight on November 27, and it even gave some of those, who forgot, free …. Source  : Singapore nightspot condemned for free entry offer to those with condoms.

Brit-Asian BA worker accused of offering to become suicide bomber, spreading terror in UK

LONDON – Rajib Karim, a Bangladeshi born British Airways computer expert who is alleged to have offered himself as a suicide bomber, has denied terrorism charges against him at an Old Bailey hearing today.

According to the Daily Mail, Karim appeared via videolink at the Old Bailey where he pleaded not guilty to two charges of … Read more : Brit-Asian BA worker accused of offering to become suicide bomber, spreading terror in UK.

No attempt made to entrap potential Oregon Islamic bomber: FBI

WASHINGTON – U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder has dismissed speculation that FBI agents entrapped potential Oregon bomber Mohamed Osman Mohamud.

In comments to reporters, the Christian Science Monitor quoted Holder, as saying that he’d been monitoring the investigation from the start.

“I am confident that there is no entrapment here and no entrapment claim will be …. Source  : No attempt made to entrap potential Oregon Islamic bomber: FBI.

Sri Lanka ‘porn stars’ arrested and bailed

LONDON – Seven people in Sri Lanka have been arrested and bailed after being accused of appearing in locally made pornographic films, according to the country’s police.

The faces of people accused of taking part were earlier published on the Internet with a police plea for help to identify them, reports the BBC.

“So far we have …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Meet the man who goes temporarily blind every time he has sex

LONDON – A man, whose identity could not be revealed, was forced to seek medical help after temporarily losing his sight every time he had sex.

As per the NCBI ROFL blog, the patient would go blind immediately after the ejaculation but the blindness would never occur while performing any other strenuous exercise.

The report revealed … Read more »»».

Prince Andrew’s expletive-ridden rant against British anti-fraud officers exposed

LONDON – Prince Andrew’s expletive-ridden rant against British anti-fraud officers has been exposed.

According to the Daily Mail, the ‘cocky’ and ‘rude’ Duke of York railed against Britain’s Serious Fraud Office and suggested France was riddled with corruption.

In a show of ‘unmitigated patriotism’, he even attacked the U.S. in front of one of the country’s ambassadors, … Read more »»».

Awan calls WikiLeaks report ‘conspiracy to harm Pak’s ties with Islamic countries’

LAHORE – Terming the latest WikiLeaks release as a conspiracy to harm Pakistan’s ties with Islamic countries, Federal Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Dr Babar Awan, has said that Pakistan’s relations with Saudi Arabia will be strengthened further.

Awan made these comments while addressing the participants of a ceremony held at former FIA director Riaz … Read more »».

Armed 15-year-old US student shoots himself after tense hostage situation

WASHINGTON – An armed 15-year-old US school student has shot himself after police stormed into the classroom at the end of a tense hostage situation in Wisconsin.

The episode began after 3 p.m. on Monday, when the student entered a classroom at Marinette High School carrying a handgun, Police Chief Jeff Skorik said.

He held 23 students …. Source  : Armed 15-year-old US student shoots himself after tense hostage situation.

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange could be charged under US Espionage Act

WASHINGTON – Julian Assange, the founder of the whistleblower website ‘WikiLeaks’ that released thousands of US State Department’s secret documents on Sunday, is under the scanner of investigators who are trying to figure out whether or not he had violated criminal laws, and could even be charged under the Espionage Act, according to sources familiar … Read this article on Gaea Times at : WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange could be charged under US Espionage Act.

Next target is big business and their corporate secrets: Wikileaks founder

LONDON – Big business will be the next target of the whistle blowing web site WikiLeaks and its founder Julian Assange.

Assange, a 39-year-old former computer hacker, said he would expose global corporations next year.

Wikileak’s next target will be a major American bank, he said.

“It will give a true and representative insight into how banks behave … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Next target is big business and their corporate secrets: Wikileaks founder.