Political News – Monthly Newsletter December 2010

Sarkozy fears for his life

LONDON – French President Nicolas Sarkozy is fearing for his life as he has become the country’s “most hated” president in 50 years.

“I am so hated that I am beginning to fear for my life. Someone may just cross the line and attack me. But I don’t know why the French have come to …. Read the original article  : Sarkozy fears for his life.

33 percent voting in Bihar polls, FIR against Lalu (Afternoon Lead)

PATNA – Nearly 33 percent of the electorate cast votes by Monday afternoon in the generally peaceful fourth phase of the Bihar assembly elections being held in 42 constituencies. Patna, however, saw some drama as a case was filed against RJD chief Lalu Prasad for violating the model code of conduct.

Additional Director General of … Original source on Gaea Times at : 33 percent voting in Bihar polls, FIR against Lalu (Afternoon Lead).

Chavan back home, Pranab says panel needs time

NEW DELHI – The Congress party panel set up to go into the Adarsh housing scam needed some time to examine the documents, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said Monday as Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan returned home to Mumbai.

“We will require some time to study the documents. After that we will be in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Chavan back home, Pranab says panel needs time.

PM says domestic source of oil supplies inadequate to meet growing energy

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Monday called for higher domestic production of oil, saying that domestic sources of oil supplies are inadequate to meet the growing demand for energy.

Inaugurating the 9th International Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition (Petrotech 2010) here, Dr Singh said: ” Developing domestic sources involves huge …. Source  : PM says domestic source of oil supplies inadequate to meet growing energy.

Oz PM Gillard cautious, modest and awkward on global stage

HANOI – At last week’s ASEAN and East Asia Summits, Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard certified that “foreign policy” was not her “passion”, and more often than not, appeared cautious in her footwork, modest in her goals and as awkward in the company of global leaders as her predecessor Kevin Rudd was ambitious and at …. Original source  : Oz PM Gillard cautious, modest and awkward on global stage.

BJP leader Joshi praises Rahul Gandhi for reaching out to common man

KANPUR – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Murli Manohar Joshi praised Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi for being able to reach out to the common man.

Addressing a press conference here on Sunday, Joshi said Gandhi is doing a great job and political leaders should follow in his footsteps.

“He’s (Rahul Gandhi) doing a good job …. Read the original article  : BJP leader Joshi praises Rahul Gandhi for reaching out to common man.

Bihar polls: Case filed against Lalu, Rabri for violating model code

PATNA – Cases were filed on Monday against Rashtriya Janata Dal chief Lalu Prasad and his wife Rabri Devi for allegedly violating the Model Code Of Conduct by taking their security guards inside a booth of the Digha Assembly constituency near Patna.

Digha Block Development Officer Ashok Kumar registred the cases at the Patna Airport Police …. Source article  : Bihar polls: Case filed against Lalu, Rabri for violating model code.

Banerjee slams West Bengal’s Left Front for anarchic rule

BANKURA – Trinamool Congress chief and Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee slammed the ruling Communist Party of India (Marxist) for what she called “letting loose anarchy” in West Bengal.

Talking to reporters here on Sunday after inaugurating three railway projects, Banerjee said: “CPI-M does not let the people live in peace, be it in the villages or … Read more : Banerjee slams West Bengal’s Left Front for anarchic rule.

While Andhra celebrates, Telangana activists mark ‘black day’

HYDERABAD – Andhra Pradesh formation day celebrations began Monday morning amid protests in Telangana, where groups fighting for a separate state are observing the anniversary as a “black day”.

Tension prevailed in parts of Telangana as protestors tried to disrupt the official celebrations while dozens of leaders of various parties and their activists were arrested.
…. Read the original article  : While Andhra celebrates, Telangana activists mark ‘black day’.

Berlusconi gave me diamond necklace, ???70K car, claims Moroccan teen

LONDON – A 17-year-old Moroccan model, Karima Keyek, who is involved in the sex scandal with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, has claimed he gave her 6,000 pounds in euros, a diamond necklace and a 70,000 pounds car.

The teenage belly dancer said she witnessed dinner party guests taking part in sex sessions in what the … Read more >>.

FIR against Lalu, Nitish cries ‘law breaker’

PATNA – Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad was Monday booked for violating the model code of conduct for entering a poll booth with his security guards. And political rival Chief Minister Nitish Kumar lost no time in calling him a “habitual law breaker”.

“This (Lalu’s action) violated the model code of conduct as … Read : FIR against Lalu, Nitish cries ‘law breaker’.

Nikki Haley may win South Carolina governor race

WASHINGTON – The fate of a record seven Indian-Americans, six of them Democrats, hangs in balance in Tuesday’s elections with US President Barack Obama’s Democratic Party expected to lose seats in both chambers. But Republican Nikki Haley, born Nimrata (Nikki) Randhawa to Sikh immigrant parents from Amritsar, is favoured to win the governor’s race of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nikki Haley may win South Carolina governor race.

Obama visit to India: past as reminder for future (Comment)

US President Barack Obama embarks on his India ‘yatra’ in Mumbai Nov 6 to leave his impress on a complex, contradictory and asymmetric bilateral relationship between the world’s oldest and largest democracies. Very few of his predecessors at the White House have had cordial ties with their Indian counterparts while others like Richard Nixon could … Read more >>.

Chavan heads back to Mumbai

NEW DELHI – Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, who had offered to resign over the Adarsh housing society scam, left here for Mumbai Monday morning with no decision on his alleged role likely soon, Congress sources said.

Chavan came to Delhi Sunday morning and met with Congress president Sonia Gandhi. The meeting was also attended …. Read the original article  : Chavan heads back to Mumbai.

FIR against Lalu for violating code of conduct

PATNA – Bihar police has filed a complaint against Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad for allegedly violating the model code of conduct by walking into a polling booth with his security guards, police said.

“This violated the model code of conduct as security guards cannot enter the polling booth premises,” a police official …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : FIR against Lalu for violating code of conduct.

Berlusconi ’suffers from uncontrollable sickness for women’

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has been accused of suffering from an “uncontrollable sickness” in his relations with women, as 17-year-old Moroccan model, Karima Keyek, who was involved in the latest sex scandal, said she is writing a book about the affair.

Berlusconi has been accused of personally intervening to have the teenage belly … Original article on : Berlusconi ’suffers from uncontrollable sickness for women’.

Republicans appear poised to win big in US poll

WASHINGTON – Even as President Barack Obama prepares to leave over the weekend for a four-nation trip to Asia, including the first stop in India, his Democratic party is expected to lose control of the US House of Representative to the Republicans, according to latest polls.

The final USA Today/Gallup measure of Americans’ voting intentions … Read more >>>.

Peaceful voting on in Bihar (Second Lead)

PATNA – The fourth phase of the Bihar assembly elections that began Monday morning in 42 constituencies, which include Patna and some Maoist-affected areas, proceeded peacefully with people lining up to cast their votes early morning.

Ignoring the Maoists’ call of poll boycott, voters, particularly women and youth, queued up outside the polling booths soon …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Peaceful voting on in Bihar (Second Lead).

Pakistan’s UN envoy wants to resign

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s ambassador to the UN Husain Abdullah Haroon has informed Islamabad that he has no intention of continuing as the country’s permanent representative to the world body any more, it was reported here.

Haroon’s contract as Pakistan’s envoy to the UN was extended in October and he was supposed to work till September … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan’s UN envoy wants to resign.

Voting under way for fourth phase of Bihar polls

PATNA – The fourth phase of the Bihar assembly elections to elect a new 243-member house began Monday amid tight security in 42 constituencies which include some Maoist-affected areas.

About 10.4 million people, including 4.6 million women, are eligible to vote to determine the electoral fate of 568 candidates in eight districts.
The eight districts …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Voting under way for fourth phase of Bihar polls.

Malawi president arrives on six-day India visit

NEW DELHI – Malawi president Bingu Wa Mutharika arrived here Tuesday on a six-day visit, during which he will hold talks with the Indian leadership and receive an honorary doctorate.

The president’s plane arrived at the Air Force station in Palam in the morning. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation.
Mutharika will hold talks …. Source article  : Malawi president arrives on six-day India visit.

Congress must connect rich, poor India: Rahul

NEW DELHI – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi said Tuesday that the empowerment of the poor will take the country forward and his party was striving to bridge the gap between those getting prosperous and those lagging behind.

“There are two Indias in the country today – one that is moving forward fast and … Original article on : Congress must connect rich, poor India: Rahul.

Bangladesh, Pakistan plan PM level talks

DHAKA – Bangladesh and Pakistan have agreed to give “fresh impetus” to their bilateral relationship and planned a prime ministerial-level dialogue by the end of 2011.

The foreign ministers of the two neighbours will meet in the next six months and their prime ministers by the end of next year, it was decided at an …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Development should reach poorer sections of society: PM

NEW DELHI – The United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government will always try to ensure that economic development reaches the poorer and weaker sections of society, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said here Tuesday.

We want an economic development which is equitable, Manmohan Singh said at a meeting of the All India Congress Committee here Tuesday.
… Read this article on Gaea Times at : Development should reach poorer sections of society: PM.

In defeat, Obama may follow Bill Clinton

WASHINGTON – Days ahead of a visit to India, US President Barack Obama faces the prospects of a radically altered political landscape with a widely predicted rout for his Democratic party in Tuesday’s mid-term elections.

Obama himself is not up for re-election until 2012, but polls and pundits alike suggest opposition Republicans are poised to …. Read the original article  : In defeat, Obama may follow Bill Clinton.

India on Obama’s mind

NEW DELHI – India has been on US President Barack Obama’s mind since his senatorial days. Be it the contentious issue of outsourcing or the “wonderful” Prime Minister Manmohan Singh or his “hero” Mahatma Gandhi, here’s what Obama – who will visit India during Nov 6-9 – has been saying about the country:

On the … Original article on : India on Obama’s mind.

Ayodhya verdict does not condone demolition: Sonia Gandhi

NEW DELHI – The Allahabad High Court’s verdict on the Ayodhya dispute did not condone the demolition of the Babri Masjid, Congress president Sondia Gandhi said Tuesday while asserting that the perpetrators must be “brought to justice”.

The judgment in no way condones the demolition of the Babri Masjid, Gandhi said at a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

People should have say in nature of development: Sonia

NEW DELHI – Congress president Sonia Gandhi said Tuesday that people should have a say in development, and stressed that natural resources should not be exploited indiscriminately.

Referring to the Maoist movement in the country, Gandhi said at a meeting of the All India Congress Committee (AICC) here that the nature of “development is the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : People should have say in nature of development: Sonia.

Sonia Gandhi on Kashmir: Give peace a chance

NEW DELHI – The situation in Kashmir could be improved through political dialogue, Congress president Sonia Gandhi said Tuesday and urged people to “give peace a chance”.

Addressing a meeting of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), Gandhi also supported the government’s appointment of interlocutors for Kashmir and said the events of the last … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sonia Gandhi on Kashmir: Give peace a chance.

Brazil’s first woman president-elect vows to push for equality

Brasilia, Nov 2 (IANS/EFE) Brazilian President-elect Dilma Rousseff has promised to guarantee freedom of the press and religion and to promote “equality between men and women”, since all those things are “essential principles of democracy”.

In her first speech after the confirmation of her solid victory in Sunday’s presidential runoff, Rousseff said her election “is …. Original article  : Brazil’s first woman president-elect vows to push for equality.

Lack of time makes Obama give Golden Temple, Taj a miss

WASHINGTON – The White House has clarified that US President Barack Obama will not visit Amritsar’s Golden Temple and the Taj Mahal at Agra due to paucity of time.

“Anybody that would go to (India), would love to… spend a lot more time there,” White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs told reporters Monday when asked …. Read the original article  : here.

Poll results would not affect Obama agenda on Asia trip: aide

WASHINGTON – The predicted rout of US President Barack Obama’s Democratic party in Tuesday’s Congressional poll would not affect his economic agenda on his Asia trip, starting with India, according to a top aide.

“I think regardless of the election results, the President is committed throughout this whole trip and including the negotiations over the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Poll results would not affect Obama agenda on Asia trip: aide.

Myanmar’s election may hold a few surprises

YANGON – Seldom has an election raised so few expectations as Myanmar’s upcoming polls in Myanmar Nov 7, the first elections in the country in 20 years.

The outcome of last election May 27, 1990 surprised the country’s ruling generals and fostered great expectations that democracy was afoot in the politically benighted land.
Myanmar’s military …. Original source  : Myanmar’s election may hold a few surprises.

Obama has no time for Golden Temple, Taj Mahal

WASHINGTON – The White House has clarified that US President Barack Obama will not be visiting the Golden Temple in Amritsar and the Taj Mahal at Agra because of paucity of time.

“Anybody that would go to (India), would love to… spend a lot more time there,” White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs told reporters …. Read the original article  : Obama has no time for Golden Temple, Taj Mahal.

US backs Japan in island dispute with Russia

WASHINGTON – The US urged Japan and Russia to resolve a dispute over four islands that have been a sore point in relations between the two countries for decades.

The issue arose Monday after Russian President Dmitry Medvedev visited one of the South Kiril islands, becoming the first leader of the country — including the … Read more >>.

President Barack Obama Announces Presidential Delegation to Bridgetown, Barbados to attend the Funeral of Prime Minister Thompson of Barbados

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

President Barack Obama today announced the designation of a Presidential Delegation to Bridgetown, Barbados to attend the funeral of Prime Minister Thompson of Barbados [..] Read the original article: here.

Presidential Proclamation???U.S.-Bahrain Free Trade Agreement

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

TO ADJUST THE RULES OF ORIGIN UNDER THE UNITED STATES-BAHRAIN
FREE TRADE AGREEMENT, IMPLEMENT MODIFICATIONS TO THE CARIBBEAN BASIN ECONOMIC RECOVERY ACT, AND FOR OTHER [..] Read the original article: here.

Statement by the White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs on the Baghdad Hostage Situation

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

The United States strongly condemns this senseless act of hostage taking and violence by terrorists linked to al Qaeda in Iraq that occurred Sunday …. Original article  : Statement by the White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs on the Baghdad Hostage Situation.

Presidential Proclamation???National Adoption Month

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

    Giving a child a strong foundation — a home, a family to love, and a safe place to grow — is one of … Read more »»».

Press Gaggle on the President’s Upcoming Trip to Asia by Press Secretary Gibbs, Deputy National Security Advisor Froman, Deputy National Security Advisor Rhodes and Treasury Under Secretary for International Affairs Brainard

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Location: 

James S. Brady Press [..] Read the original article: here.

Nikki Haley to rule largely white South Carolina

South Carolina, the southern US state that Republican Nikki Haley, a daughter of Sikh immigrant parents from Amritsar is set to rule as the new governor, has a surprisingly sparse population of Indian Americans.

According to the 2000 census there were only 8,356 Indians among 36,014 (0.9 percent) Asians in a total population of …. Original article  : Nikki Haley to rule largely white South Carolina.

John Boehner On A High!

OHIO (GaeaTimes.com)- The Obama administration is now going through one of its toughest phases and the republicans are basking in the glory of their success in the mid term elections held recently. John Boehner who is the GOP Rep from the state of Ohio is on cloud 9 as he is slated to …. Original source  : John Boehner On A High!.

We will introspect and win back people’s trust: Achuthanandan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Kerala Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan, who suffered a series of electoral reverses after assuming power in 2006, put up a brave face Wednesday and said his government will win back people’s confidence.

“Despite doing a lot of positive things for the people, somehow all what we did, for some reason, could not be … Read more >>>.

Punjab bandh call: Radical Sikh leaders arrested

CHANDIGARH – Punjab Police Wednesday arrested radical Sikh leaders as a preventive measure after many groups called a state wide shutdown to highlight the delay in justice to victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

“Keeping in mind the law and order situation in the state, we have made some preventive arrests. Only those people were …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Punjab bandh call: Radical Sikh leaders arrested.

Khaleda Zia demands mid-term polls in Bangladesh

DHAKA – Bangladesh’s opposition leader Khaleda Zia has demanded that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina should test her popularity by holding a mid-term parliamentary poll.

“The people have already lost their confidence in the government,” Zia, a two-term prime minister, told a lawyer’s forum close to her Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Tuesday.
Citing a survey report …. Source  : Khaleda Zia demands mid-term polls in Bangladesh.

Nikki Haley Wins Governor Race

Columbia (GaeaTimes.com)- South Carolina has selected a new Governor and it is none other than the Tea Party backed Indian American candidate Nikki Haley. In what was a nail biting clash between Democrat Vincent Sheheen and the 38-year old mother of two, Nikki Haley emerged victorious with 52% of the votes. She will …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nikki Haley Wins Governor Race.

Republican Pat Toomey Wins US Senate Seat in Pennsylvania

PENNSYLVANIA (GaeaTimes.com) — Result is out and the prediction comes true. Republican wins in Pennsylvania’s U-S Senate contest. Its Pat Toomey, who wins the contest, defeating Democrat U.S. Rep. Joe Sestak.
A close race was noticed between the two stalwart leaders. Toomey earned 68 percent of the vote, compared to 32 percent for Sestak. Although …. Read the original article  : Republican Pat Toomey Wins US Senate Seat in Pennsylvania.

Berlusconi’s Bunga Bunga sex romps now in Italian lexicon

LONDON – A teenaged Moroccan belly dancer’s dramatic statement of her having attended Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi’s Bunga Bunga sex parties has helped the phrase enter the country’s lexicon.

Ever since belly dancer Karima Keyek claimed she had witnessed “bunga bunga” sex sessions, the phrase “bunga-bunga” has been dominating news bulletins, appearing in newspaper … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Berlusconi’s Bunga Bunga sex romps now in Italian lexicon.

Joe Manchin Defies John Raese

CHARLESTON, (GaeaTimes.com)- It was a great day for the Democrat supporters of West Virginia, as the 63 year old West Virginian governor, Joe Manchin defeated Republican John Raese and made his way to the Senate through the US Senate Special Election in West Virginia. Reports say that Joe Manchin bagged 53 percent of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Joe Manchin Defies John Raese.

Democratic Representative Barney Frank Re-elected in Massachusetts

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) – Barney Frank, the Democratic Representative proudly retained his seat of the House Financial Services Committee after a bitter election on Tuesday. The US liberal lawmaker and the co-author of the new controversial financial regulation law, Mr. Frank won his seat in the House of Representatives after defeating Republican Sean Bielat.
Frank has … Read more »».

Obama humbled by US elections after two years in office

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama will have no choice but to work with Republicans to pass the rest of his domestic legislative agenda after his Democratic Party suffered a landslide defeat in congressional elections.

The conservative Republican Party captured more than 50 seats in the House of Representatives in Tuesday’s election, a result that …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama humbled by US elections after two years in office.

US lauds Indian diaspora for propelling India ties

WASHINGTON – Complimenting a “very active disapora” for propelling the India-US relationship, the US has kept the Indian-American community informed about the goals of what it expects to be President Barack Obama’s “very successful” trip to India.

“One of the things that has helped to propel our relationship with India over the past few years …. Source  : US lauds Indian diaspora for propelling India ties.

Nancy Pelosi To Bow Out

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- In a development that may turn the political scene in the USA the voters gave a thumb down to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and she is on her way out. Even though the Democrats still hold the majority the speaker is paving the way for her successor. The voters chose the GOP …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

House of Representatives Now Backed by the Republicans

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com) — The Republican took charge of the House of Representatives after the election results were declared on Tuesday. As a result GOP took control of more than 50 seats in the House and several in the Senate.
It was a major blow to the Democrats as it suffered a crushing defeat. The midterm …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : House of Representatives Now Backed by the Republicans.

Democratic Party likely to retain control of US Senate

WASHINGTON – The Democratic Party is likely to retain control of the Senate, the upper house of the bicameral legislature of the country, after claiming victories in key states.

Democrats won hard-fought contests in California, …. Original source  : Democratic Party likely to retain control of US Senate.

Barack Obama India Trip Ahead

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The impending visit of US president Barack Obama has made ripples in the Indian political circle. He is going to arrive in the country on November 6th 2010 and thereafter he is going to give a speech on terrorism in Mumbai’s Taj Hotel which was targeted by terrorists in the … Read : Barack Obama India Trip Ahead.

Obama’s Democrats lose House, hold on to Senate (Third Lead)

WASHINGTON – Days ahead of his visit to India, America’s first black president Barack Obama saw his Democratic party suffer a near rout in the face of voter dissatisfaction over a recession-hit economy.

Riding the anti-establishment mood, the opposition Republicans won majority control of the US House of Representatives in Tuesday’s midterm elections, while Democrats … Read : Obama’s Democrats lose House, hold on to Senate (Third Lead).

Indian-American Nikki Haley South Carolina’s first woman governor (Second Lead)

WASHINGTON – Nikki Haley, the daughter of Sikh immigrant parents from Amritsar, created history by becoming the first woman to win the governor’s race in South Carolina state and the first Indian American woman in the country to occupy the office.

Haley, born Nimrata (Nikki) Randhawa will be the first woman chief executive of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Both Nikki Haley and Bobby Jindal’s parents came from Punjab

TORONTO – Parents of both Nikki Randhawa Haley, who Tuesday won the governor’s election in South Carolina, and Bobby Jindal, the other Indian American governor of Lousiana, were born to immigrants from Punjab.

Nikki Haley is the first woman and the second person of Indian origin after Bobby Jindal to become governor in the … Read more »».

It’s better to be passionate about girls than be gay, says Berlusconi

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has hit back at his opponents over the latest scandal involving Moroccan belly dancer Karima Keyek.

He raised eyebrows when he told an audience: “It’s better to be passionate about beautiful girls than be gay.”

Berlusconi, 74, spoke out after it emerged that … Read more »»».

Statement by the Vice President on New Recovery Act Recipient Reports

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Tonight, the Recovery Accountability and Transparency Board posted on Recovery.gov quarterly reports required from some recipients of Recovery Act funding.  The recipient reports provide …. Original article  : Statement by the Vice President on New Recovery Act Recipient Reports.

Readout of the President’s Call with President Lee of the Republic of Korea

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

President Lee called the President yesterday evening to discuss the forthcoming G20 Summit that will be held in Seoul on November 11 – 12.   …. Source article  : Readout of the President’s Call with President Lee of the Republic of Korea.

President Obama Signs South Dakota Disaster Declaration

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

The President today declared a major disaster exists in the State of South Dakota and ordered Federal aid to supplement State, local and Tribal …. Original source  : President Obama Signs South Dakota Disaster Declaration.

Peaceful Diwali expected in valley during two days of ‘normalcy’

SRINAGAR – Jammu and Kashmir’s summer capital Srinagar and the rest of the Kashmir Valley are expected to be peaceful for two more days beginning Thursday as the separatists have deferred their shutdown and the authorities too have shunned curfew.

No curfew has been imposed anywhere in the valley today, a police officer said here …. Source  : Peaceful Diwali expected in valley during two days of ‘normalcy’.

President Barack Obama’s India Trip: Security Beefed Up

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- With just few days remaining in the much-awaited India trip of United States President Barack Obama, Indian officials are keeping no stones unturned to ensure that things work out without any glitches during the officials visit of the American commander-in-chief. The security in the national capital has …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : President Barack Obama’s India Trip: Security Beefed Up.

When John Key addressed Hillary Clinton as President

WELLINGTON – It seems New Zealand Prime Minister John Key got confused while addressing US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

As Key, 49, referred to her as President Clinton, Stuff.co.nz reported.

Clinton, however, just laughed the mistake off.

She is married to former American president Bill Clinton. (ANI)
… Read more >>.

BJP youth workers disrupt separatist leader’s press meet

JAMMU – Activists of Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), the youth wing of Bharatiya Janata Party, disrupted a press meet of separatist leader Shabir Ahmad Shah in Jammu Thursday.

The BJYM activists tried to assault Shabir Ahmad Shah, the president of the Jammu Kashmir Democratic Freedom Party and a member of the executive council of … Original article on : BJP youth workers disrupt separatist leader’s press meet.

When Bush told “hot-blooded” Putin he was “cold-blooded”

LONDON – Memoirs of former US President George Bush have revealed how he once told Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin that he is cold-blooded and not hot-blooded.

The incident had taken place at the Olympic opening ceremony in August 2008, when Bush complained to Putin about Russia’s invasion of neighbouring Georgia.

Bush also stated that Georgian … Original article on : When Bush told “hot-blooded” Putin he was “cold-blooded”.

Mamata advises Buddhadeb to change his spectacles

KOLKATA – Railways Minister and Trinamool Congress Chief Mamata Banerjee has slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattcharjee for allegedly spreading “rumours” about lack of jobs in railways and advised him to change his spectacles.

“He is spreading rumours about the unavailability of jobs in the railways and popularity of trains which have been flagged …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Mamata advises Buddhadeb to change his spectacles.

Bangladeshi American makes it to US House (Lead, changing dateline)

WASHINGTON – Five Indian-Americans may have lost their bids to enter the US Congress, but a South Asian of Bangladeshi descent has made it for the first time in the history of the United States. …. Original article  : Bangladeshi American makes it to US House (Lead, changing dateline).

Australia invites Indian PM on official visit

SYDNEY – Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has been invited to make an official visit to Australia next year, an official said Thursday.

According to Australian Associated Press, Singh, who will be in Perth in October next year for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), has been invited to extend his time in Australia …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Campaigning gains momentum for fifth phase of Bihar polls

GAYA – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Shatrughan Sinha addressed election rallies in Gaya district to woo voters, ahead of the fifth phase of Assembly elections in the state.

Campaigning for his party candidate Amjad Khan, Nitish Kumar addressed a public rally at the Belaganj village in Gaya District.

Kumar said: …. Original source  : Campaigning gains momentum for fifth phase of Bihar polls.

Manmohan Singh to visit Oz next year

CANBERRA – Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has reportedly accepted an invitation to visit Australia next year, a move that is expected to provide a symbolic boost for Indo-Australian ties strained by assaults on Indian students and by Labor’s ban on uranium sales to India.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, a spokesman for Australian Prime …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Manmohan Singh to visit Oz next year.

Berlusconi has marble statue of him as Superman, claims teen belly dancer

LONDON – A teenage belly dancer, who has denied having sex with Silvio Berlusconi, has claimed that the Italian Prime Minister has a marble statue of himself as Superman.

Karima Keyek, 18, given 7,000 euros and a diamond necklace by the leader, insisted that he was “more like a father’ after he invited her to his …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Berlusconi has marble statue of him as Superman, claims teen belly dancer.

Bangladeshi-American wins in US polls

DHAKA – Hansen Hashem Clarke, a Democrat, has become the first Bangladeshi-American to win a congressional seat to the US House of Representatives, it was reported here.

Clarke, a member of the Michigan Senate, trounced Carolyn Cheeks Kilkpatrich, a Republican who held the seat for 20 years.
After winning the congressional seat, Clarke said he … Read more »».

Kamala Harris winning in California attorney general race

WASHINGTON – After a dramatic turn around, Indian-American Kamala Harris is clinging to a razor-thin majority in the race to be attorney general of California. But the race is still not over. And it won’t be for weeks to come.

Initially trailing, Democrat Harris, daughter of an Indian mother and African-American father, pulled ahead of …. Original source  : Kamala Harris winning in California attorney general race.

Readout of President Obama’s call with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

As part of his ongoing consultations with close NATO allies, President Obama called Prime Minister Rutte of the Netherlands today to congratulate the Prime … Read more : Readout of President Obama’s call with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte.

End of military’s gay policy must be orderly: Obama

WASHINGTON – Ending the US military’s policy that bans gays from openly serving must be orderly, US President Barack Obama said Wednesday, expressing hope that Congress will repeal the law when it returns following an election recess.

Obama has sought to have the 1993 law known as “don’t ask, don’t tell” repealed, but his administration … Read more >>.

Obama accepts ’shellacking’; will work with Republicans

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama took responsibility for the voter discontent that led to the “shellacking” of Democrats in congressional elections, while pledging Wednesday to work with the newly empowered Republicans.

“I’m not recommending for every future president that they take a shellacking like I did (Tuesday) night. You know, I’m sure there are … Read more >>>.

Let Rahul Gandhi first learn politics: Mamata Banerjee

KOLKATA – Railways Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee Wednesday brushed aside queries on Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi’s recent visit to West Bengal to strengthen his party, saying the young leader first needed to learn the nuances of politics.

“I don’t want to say anything about his (Rahul Gandhi) visit to Bengal. Please …. Original source  : Let Rahul Gandhi first learn politics: Mamata Banerjee.

Barack Obama India Trip To Include Private Dinner

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The India trip of US president Barack Obama has kept the government of India and security agencies on tenterhooks and huge security arrangements have been made to ensure highest level of safety for the first couple of the USA when they arrive in India. The US president is going to …. Original source  : Barack Obama India Trip To Include Private Dinner.

Malaysian PM extends Deepavali greetings to Hindus

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak has extended Deepavali greetings to the Hindus in the country, and assured them that his government would continue to be with the community.

According to The Star, Razak said that the government was working with many Indian groups to bring more services and facilities to the community, …. Source article  : Malaysian PM extends Deepavali greetings to Hindus.

Kashmir bilateral issue between India and Pakistan: US

WASHINGTON – With President Barack Obama arriving in India Saturday, the US has reiterated its hands off approach on Kashmir saying while it supported an India-Pakistan dialogue, “clearly it is something that the two need to resolve” directly.

“As you’ve heard repeatedly from others in the Administration, we support and encourage ongoing efforts between India … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kashmir bilateral issue between India and Pakistan: US.

$200 million-a-day cost for India trip ‘wildly inflated’: White House

WASHINGTON – US officials have dismissed media reports that President Barack Obama’s upcoming trip to India is going to cost $200 million a day as “wildy”inflated” and “simply not true.”

“The costs are comparable to when President (Bill) Clinton or President (George) Bush travelled abroad,” White House press secretary Robert Gibbs said Thursday. “This trip … Read this article on Gaea Times at : $200 million-a-day cost for India trip ‘wildly inflated’: White House.

Obama embarks on a sales trip to India

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama embarks Friday on a history-making trip to India to take Washington’s ties with what he himself describes as an “indispensable partner of the 21st century” to a new level.

From Obama down, officials have held out prospects of significant announcements during his Nov 6-9 without spelling out the specifics, but … Original source on Gaea Times at : Obama embarks on a sales trip to India.

‘Nikki Haley victory triumph for Indian diaspora in N America’

TORONTO – Ecstatic over the victory of Nikki Randhawa Haley as governor of South Carolina in the US Tuesday, Indian Canadian lawmakers have congratulated the fellow Indian-origin leader for making it to the top position.

“It is really a great and sweet moment for us in the Indian diaspora that an Indian-origin woman has made … Read more »»».

Obama’s ‘Slurpee summit’ has convenience store salivating

WASHINGTON – Barack Obama seems to have a thing for naming summits after drinks. The makers of those beverages couldn’t be happier.

The US president jumped on a reporter’s suggestion Wednesday that he call an upcoming meeting with top Democratic and Republican legislative leaders a “Slurpee summit” to hash out a way forward after Tuesday’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Executive Order – Controlled Unclassified Information

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby … Read more »».

CONFERENCIA DE PRENSA DEL PRESIDENTE

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Location: 

Sala Este … Read more : CONFERENCIA DE PRENSA DEL PRESIDENTE.

Press briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 11/04/2010

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Location: 

James S. Brady Press …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Executive Order???Order of Succession Within the Department of Justice

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the Federal Vacancies … Read : Executive Order–Order of Succession Within the Department of Justice.

Obama plans meeting with Republicans

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama said Thursday he will hold a meeting with top Republicans later this month to explore ways to work together after Democrats were pummelled in mid-term congressional elections.

Obama said the meeting is to explore ways to change the nature of Washington politics and said he told his cabinet to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Obama extends Diwali greetings, looking forward to India visit

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama Thursday extended greetings on the occasion of Diwali, and said he looks forward to visiting India in the next few days.

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 …. Read the original article  : Obama extends Diwali greetings, looking forward to India visit.

US President’s official itinerary in India

NEW DELHI – The following is the official itinerary of US President Barack Obama as released by the Ministry of External Affairs here Thursday:

Saturday, November 6, 2010
1250 hrs Arrive: Mumbai
Programme in Mumbai
Sunday, November 7, 2010
1345 hrs Emplane for Delhi
1535 hrs Arrive Delhi at Air Force Station, Palam
1640 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US President’s official itinerary in India.

Statement by the President on Diwali

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Tomorrow, Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists, here in America and around the world, will celebrate the holiday of Diwali – the festival of … Original article on : Statement by the President on Diwali.

Remarks by the President After a Cabinet Meeting

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Location: 

Cabinet Room …. Source article  : Remarks by the President After a Cabinet Meeting.

CPI (M) seeks removal of A Raja from Cabinet for 2G scam

NEW DELHI – The Communist Party of India (Marxist) on Thursday demanded removal of A Raja from the Union Cabinet for his alleged involvement in the 2G telecom scam.

Senior CPI (M) leader Sitaram Yechury, addressing a news conference in New Delhi, here … Original source on Gaea Times at : CPI (M) seeks removal of A Raja from Cabinet for 2G scam.

Guess who is going for PM’s Obama dinner?

NEW DELHI – Congress president Sonia Gandhi, her son and party general secretary Rahul Gandhi, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Bollywood veterans Shabana Azmi and Javed Akhtar and academic Najeeb Jung are among those invited for the private dinner Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is hosting for US President Barack Obama on Sunday.

Manmohan …. Read the original article  : Guess who is going for PM’s Obama dinner?.

Election fraud complaint lodged against Myanmar junta party

YANGON – The proxy party of Myanmar’s military rulers has been accused of illegally collecting advance votes for a general election to be held this weekend, sources said Thursday.

The National Unity Party (NUP) registered a complaint with the election commission against the pro-junta Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), alleging that the USDP illegally … Read : Election fraud complaint lodged against Myanmar junta party.

India, Maldives to strenthen bilateral ties (Lead, superseding previous story)

NEW DELHI – India and the Maldives Thursday discussed ways to further strengthen their multifaceted relations, particularly in areas like health, education and investment.

“Both the dignitaries discussed bilateral issues relating to manpower, particularly in the health and education sectors, investment opportunities, increasing the volume of trade with the states in southern India, aquaculture, export …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : India, Maldives to strenthen bilateral ties (Lead, superseding previous story).

President Barack Obama’s Visit To India: Security Tightened

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- United States President Barack Obama is all set to commence his trip to Asian countries on Saturday with Mumbai gearing up to be his first destination. After days of speculation, President Barack Obama finally landed in the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport at around 12:50 p.m on Saturday afternoon to kick off … Original source on Gaea Times at : President Barack Obama’s Visit To India: Security Tightened.

Obama not likely to push India hard on Pakistan: NYT

WASHINGTON – American military commanders want India to formally reject an Indian military doctrine they say is fuelling tensions with Pakistan and hindering the American war in Afghanistan, the New York Times reported Saturday. New Delhi denied any such doctrine even exists.

But administration officials say they do not expect President Barack Obama to broach …. Original article  : Obama not likely to push India hard on Pakistan: NYT.

Pakistan gives another 26/11 dossier on eve of Obama visit

ISLAMABAD – In a move aimed at showing its seriousness about punishing the 26/11 attackers, on the eve of US President Barack Obama’s visit to India Pakistan has handed over to New Delhi another dossier and information on its proposal to send a commission to India to spur the trial in the case.

… Read : Pakistan gives another 26/11 dossier on eve of Obama visit.

President Obama, Michelle arrive in India

MUMBAI – US President Barack Obama arrived here Saturday at the start of a four-day India visit that will later take him to New Delhi.

The US Air Force One carrying the president and his wife Michelle landed at the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport just before 1 p.m.
Obama was received by Maharashtra Chief Minister …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Namaste India! Obama to read from teleprompter

NEW DELHI – Namaste India! In all likelihood that will be silver-tongued Barack Obama’s opening line when he addresses the Indian parliament next week. But to help him pronouce Hindi words correctly will be a teleprompter which the US president uses ever so often for his hypnotising speeches.

According to parliament sources, a technical team …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

President Obama arrives in Mumbai

MUMBAI – US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle arrived in Mumbai Saturday on the first leg of their four-day India visit.

The US Air Force One landed at the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport here shortly before 1 p.m.
…. Original article  : President Obama arrives in Mumbai.

India trip shows importance Obama places on ties: US daily

WASHINGTON – Barack Obama will spend three days in India, the longest foreign stay of his presidency. This is “a clear sign of the importance” the US president places on ties with India, an editorial in a leading US daily said.

The editorial also said that Obama “needs to press Pakistan a lot harder to … Read more >>.

Lalu gives Bihar a crash course on poll machine functionary

PATNA – Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav on Friday took it upon himself to demonstrate the functioning of EVMs while campaigning for his close aide and minister Shyam Rajak.

“See the keypad here and the lantern (RJD’s symbol) button and press it aur machinwa boli pi,” he said.

Playing the regional card, …. Source article  : Lalu gives Bihar a crash course on poll machine functionary.

Musharraf disappointed over Obama skipping Pakistan

LONDON – Pakistan’s former president Pervez Musharraf has expressed disappointment that US President Barack Obama will not visit his country on the sidelines of his maiden trip to India, the Daily Telegraph reported Saturday.

“I would take it as a disappointment, yes, indeed,” Musharraf told MSNBC television.
The former army chief also criticised Obama … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Musharraf disappointed over Obama skipping Pakistan.

Obama’s India visit significant, a signal to China: Expert

WASHINGTON – It is “significant” that India is the first stop on US President Barack Obama’s four-nation trip as it shows “the importance the US attaches to India”, a US expert has said.

George Perkovich, vice president for studies and director of the Nuclear Policy Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said in … Read : Obama’s India visit significant, a signal to China: Expert.

India set to receive Obama

MUMBAI – India’s financial capital Mumbai was set to receive US President Barack Obama at the start of his four-day visit to India beginning mid-day Saturday.

Obama is accompanied by his wife Michelle and top officials in what would be the president’s longest foreign trip since he assumed presidency two years ago.
Obama, who will …. Read the original article  : India set to receive Obama.

US poll results not to affect deepening India ties: Official

WASHINGTON – Given the bipartisan support for America’s India policy, US officials expect a continued push by President Barack Obama for deepening ties with New Delhi despite Republicans capturing the House of Representatives.

“The great story about India is that we have bipartisan consensus on our foreign policy towards India. So there should not be …. Source article  : US poll results not to affect deepening India ties: Official.

New York mayor called Obama the most arrogant man he ever met

NEW YORK – New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg had once said that a conversation with Barack Obama was “like verbal ping pong” and that the US president was the “most arrogant man” he had ever met, according to a media report.

Bloomberg had called on Obama, during the latter’s vacation at Martha’s Vineyard in August. … Original source on Gaea Times at : New York mayor called Obama the most arrogant man he ever met.

Increasing divergences bog down Indo-US strategic partnership (Comment)

In an era where even a strategic partnership between India and China is theoretically possible, the unrelenting emphasis on India’s strategic relationship with the US often seems a fashion statement. As relations between the world’s largest democracies get intensely scrutinised, diplomatic niceties constrain both parties from accepting that increasing divergences are pushing back the partnership … Original article on : Increasing divergences bog down Indo-US strategic partnership (Comment).

What led to Maharashtra’s poverty of leadership (Comment)

Although the Congress’ decision to exclude Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan from its election campaign in Bihar is not headline news at the national level, it still has damaging implications for the party.

Chavan is the second chief minister to be kept out of Bihar. The first was his Gujarat counterpart Narendra Modi. In the …. Original source  : What led to Maharashtra’s poverty of leadership (Comment).

Read-out of President Obama’s Call with Argentine President Fernandez de Kirchner

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

President Obama called Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner this afternoon to personally express his condolences for the passing of her husband and former …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Read-out of President Obama’s Call with Argentine President Fernandez de Kirchner.

Letter from the President on the Designation of Irving A. Williamson as Vice Chair of the United States International Trade Commission

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

TEXT OF A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
TO THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
AND THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE

October 29, 2010

Dear Madam Speaker:    (Dear … Read more >>>.

Presidential Proclamation – Veterans Day

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

——-
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
 

On Veterans Day, we come together to pay tribute to the men and women who … Original article on : Presidential Proclamation — Veterans Day.

Defiant Nancy Pelosi to run for US House minority leader

WASHINGTON – Nancy Pelosi, the Democratic lawmaker who leads the US House of Representatives, said Friday that she wants to remain leader of her party in the chamber despite its drubbing in last week’s congressional election at the hands of Republicans.

The conservative party handed Pelosi’s House Democrats their biggest defeat in decades Tuesday, as … Original article on : Defiant Nancy Pelosi to run for US House minority leader.

President Obama Signs U.S. Virgin Islands Disaster Declaration

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

The President today declared a major disaster exists in the Territory of the U.S. Virgin Islands and ordered Federal aid to supplement Territory efforts … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : President Obama Signs U.S. Virgin Islands Disaster Declaration.

Obama urges ‘risen’ India to begin dialogue with Pakistan (Second Lead)

MUMBAI – Sharing New Delhi’s perception that progress by Islamabad in tackling terror was not quick enough, US President Barack Obama Sunday nudged India to begin a dialogue with its neighbour, saying New Delhi has the biggest stake in a successful and stable Pakistan”.

Obama, however, ruled out any mediation by the US in bilateral … Original article on : Obama urges ‘risen’ India to begin dialogue with Pakistan (Second Lead).

BJP to discuss Pakistan terror links with Obama

NEW DELHI – Pakistan-based militants’ role in terror activities in India and the “protectionist policies” of the US that harm Indian industry are some of the issues the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will raise with US President Obama Monday, party sources said.

Senior BJP leaders held a meeting here Sunday chaired by party veteran L.K. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : BJP to discuss Pakistan terror links with Obama.

India-US ties anchor of security, world prosperity: Obama (Second Lead)

MUMBAI – Stating that he was determined to take bilateral ties to an entirely new level, US President Barack Obama Sunday asserted that India-US relationship could be the anchor for security and prosperity in Asia and the world.

I am here because I think that the partnership between India and US has limitless potential to … Read more : India-US ties anchor of security, world prosperity: Obama (Second Lead).

After charming Mumbai, Obama heads to Delhi

MUMBAI – After charming Mumbai as they interacted and danced with students and also announcing $10 billion-worth business deals with India, US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Sunday afternoon left for New Delhi for official talks.

The Obamas danced with students of the Holy Name School in Colaba. The US first couple …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

India has biggest stake in a successful Pakistan: Obama

MUMBAI – Ruling out the US becoming part of India-Pakistan bilateral talks, President Barack Obama Sunday said India has “the biggest stake” in a successful and stable Pakistan.

“Obviously the history between India and Pakistan is incredibly complex and born out of much tragedy and violence. It may be surprising, but I am absolutely convinced …. Source  : India has biggest stake in a successful Pakistan: Obama.

Poll rout not to alter India-US ties: Obama

MUMBAI – Looking for mid-term adjustments for his government in the wake of an electoral debacle back home, President Barack Obama Sunday ruled out any change in the “fundamental belief” of US policy that India is a “critical” partner in the 21st century.

Obama reiterated that bilateral relations between the two countries were a “win-win” … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Poll rout not to alter India-US ties: Obama.

Obama hits out at Myanmar polls

MUMBAI – US President Barack Obama Sunday told students here that elections in Myanmar would be anything but free and fair and exhorted everyone to speak up for democracy and freedom.

In remarks that may be seen as a subtle critique of India’s policy towards that country, Obama said: “There are elections that are being …. Source  : Obama hits out at Myanmar polls.

Afghan withdrawal to begin in July 2011: Obama

MUMBAI – The US would begin withdrawing its troops from Afghanistan from July 2011, President Barack Obama reiterated Sunday even as he said a final decision on a total pullout would be determined by military issues and politics.

I have said that starting July 2011, we will begin reducing troops levels. But we will not …. Read the original article  : here.

A stable Pakistan is in India’s interest: Obama

MUMBAI – US President Barack Obama Sunday told students here that India has the biggest stake in Pakistan turning into a stable and prosperous state.

“It may be surprising, that I am absolutely convinced that the country which has the biggest stake in Pakistan’s success is India,” Obama said at interaction with students at the …. Read the original article  : here.

President Barack Obama’s Visit To India Makes Sensation

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Prior to the visit of U.S. President Barack Obama in New Delhi, the capital of India is being transformed into a fortress as the government does not want to take any chances with security. However, this may make commuting a nightmare for the residents of the capital on Monday, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Siddhartha Shankar Ray Passes Away

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Former Chief Minister of West Bengal, Siddhartha Shankar Roy passed away at his Kolkata residence yesterday evening. His family announced the news to the media and said that the veteran Congress leader died after battling a protracted illness. The media outlets reported that Siddhartha Shankar Ray had been suffering from kidney … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Siddhartha Shankar Ray Passes Away.

Manmohan Singh, wife to receive Obamas’ at Delhi airport

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, and his wife, Gursharan Kaur, are expected to receive US President Barack Obama and U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama when they land here on Sunday afternoon.

Dr. Singh personally took the decision to go to the tarmac at the Air Force Station Palam, next to the … Read : Manmohan Singh, wife to receive Obamas’ at Delhi airport.

Obamas dance to a Marathi tune at Mumbai school (Second Lead)

MUMBAI – It was a swinging start to the day for the Obamas Sunday with both the president and his wife shaking a leg with children at the Holy Name School here as a Marathi folk tune played in the background.

President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle, who landed here Saturday for a four-day …. Original source  : Obamas dance to a Marathi tune at Mumbai school (Second Lead).

Millions vote in Myanmar’s first election in 20 years

YANGON – Myanmar’s military-ruled population started voting Sunday in the country’s first election in 20 years, designed to introduce “discipline-flourishing democracy”.

An estimated 29 million people were eligible to vote in Sunday’s polls, the first since May 27, 1990.
This year’s election has raised few expectations for real democracy in Myanmar, but some are hoping … Read more : Millions vote in Myanmar’s first election in 20 years.

Pranab, Mamata condole Ray’s death

KOLKATA – Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee and Railways Minister Mamata Banerjee Saturday condoled the death of former West Bengal chief minister Siddhartha Shankar Ray.

“He was an efficient administrator, a void has been created by his death. He took the reins of the state at a crucial moment and efficiently fulfilled his duties,” said …. Source article  : Pranab, Mamata condole Ray’s death.

S.S. Ray – an administrator par excellence (Obituary)

KOLKATA – Sophisticated and articulate, Siddhartha Shankar Ray was an administrator par excellence who crushed the Naxalite movement in West Bengal and was the first envoy to put business on the India-US agenda.

A grandson of legendary freedom fighter Chittaranjan Das and himself a great barrister, Ray was said to be the brain behind then …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : S.S. Ray – an administrator par excellence (Obituary).

Massive protests as nuclear waste train reaches Germany

BERLIN – A train transporting nuclear waste from France crossed the border into Germany Saturday, where tens of thousands of anti-nuclear activists were demonstrating and attempting to block the tracks.

Witnesses reported that police had begun forcibly removing people from the tracks so the train could pass.
Police reported that at least 10,000 people began …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Massive protests as nuclear waste train reaches Germany.

Manmohan Singh to receive Obama at Delhi airport

NEW DELHI – In a special gesture, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his wife Gursharan Kaur will receive US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle at Delhi airport Sunday, sources here said Saturday.

“Yes, the prime minister and his wife will be receiving the Obamas,” sources at the Prime Minister’s Office told IANS.
Obama … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Manmohan Singh to receive Obama at Delhi airport.

Obama floods Twitter in India

NEW DELHI – The moment US President Barack Obama’s Air Force One touched down in Mumbai, the Twitterati got active, and inundated cyberspace with messages — ranging from eating out suggestions for the US first couple to humorous comments on his visit.

I hope Obama pays a customary visit …. Original source  : Obama floods Twitter in India.

Siddhartha Shankar Ray, former West Bengal chief minister dead (Second Lead)

KOLKATA – Siddhartha Shankar Ray, chief minister, governor, ambassador and one of the architects of the national emergency of former prime minister Indira Gandhi, died at his south Kolkata residence Saturday following renal failure, family sources said. He was 90.

Ray left behind his wife Maya Ray, a former MP. The couple was issueless.
The …. Read the original article  : here.

No regrets over accession remarks: Omar

JAMMU – Unperturbed by a shutdown in Jammu on Monday, the day government offices opened here, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he had “no regrets” over his remarks on the accession of Jammu and Kashmir to India that he made in the state assembly last month.

“I have no regrets over what I said. I … Read : No regrets over accession remarks: Omar.

Nervous groom meets reluctant bride: WSJ on US-India ties

WASHINGTON – The US is a nervous groom and India a reluctant bride and the visit of President Barack Obama was “butterflies in the stomach time” as both sides get to know each other in an “arranged marriage” that was yet to blossom into love.

The highly regarded daily Monday said tongue-in-cheek of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nervous groom meets reluctant bride: WSJ on US-India ties.

Ready to talk, but Pakistan should stop terror: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday said India was “committed” to talk to Pakistan on all issues, including Kashmir but Islamabad first needed to dismantle terror infrastructure from its soil.

Addressing a joint press conference with visiting US President Barack Obama here, Manmohan Singh said a “moderate and peaceful Pakistan is in the …. Source article  : Ready to talk, but Pakistan should stop terror: PM.

Talks with Pak not possible as long as it supports terror induced coercion: Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Monday ruled out a resumption of bilateral talks or a dialogue at a leadership level with Pakistan until Islamabad dismantled the terror infrastructure operating from its soil.

Dr. Singh reiterated that India is committed to resolving all the problems with Pakistan, provided …. Source article  : Talks with Pak not possible as long as it supports terror induced coercion: Manmohan Singh.

‘Humayun’s Tomb Is Spectacular,’ President Barack Obama Says

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- On his three-day visit to India, United States President Barack Obama made a stop at the World Heritage site Humayun’s Tomb on Sunday evening as a cultural part of his trip. The U.S. President visited the 16th century tomb of Mughal emperor Humayun along with his wife First Lady Michelle … Original article on : ‘Humayun’s Tomb Is Spectacular,’ President Barack Obama Says.

PM calls Obama ’sincere and valued friend’

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday described US President Barack Obama as a “sincere and valued” friend of India.

“President Obama is a sincere and valued friend of our country. And our discussions have led to a meeting of minds,” Manmohan Singh said in his opening remarks at a joint press conference here.
…. Original article on Gaea Times at  : PM calls Obama ’sincere and valued friend’.

India welcomes US support for NSG membership

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Monday India welcomed US support for membership of multilateral regimes like the Nuclear Suppliers Group.

“We welcome US support for India’s membership for multilateral export control regimes like the Nuclear Suppliers Group,” Manmohan Singh said at a joint press conference with US President Barack Obama.
The prime … Original article on : India welcomes US support for NSG membership.

Obama praises PM’s commitment to peace with Pakistan

NEW DELHI – US President Barack Obama Monday praised Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s “sincere and relentless” efforts to promote peace with Pakistan.

In response to a question at a press conference here, Obama said the Indian leader had both privately and publicly spoken about his desire and commitment to reduce tensions between India and Pakistan.
… Original article on : Obama praises PM’s commitment to peace with Pakistan.

India, US ready for strategic ties, says PM

NEW DELHI – India and the US have decided to work as equals in “a strategic relationship that will positively and decisively influence world peace”, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh declared Monday.

In his opening comment at a joint press conference with US President Barack Obama here, Manmohan Singh said the two countries had agreed to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : India, US ready for strategic ties, says PM.

Obama, Manmohan Singh begin restricted talks

NEW DELHI – Restricted talks between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and US President Barack Obama have begun at Hyderabad House.

Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, External Affairs Minister SM Krishna, National Security Advisor (NSA) Shiv Shankar Menon and Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao were present a restricted meeting between the two leaders.

India is expected to press for visible …. Source  : Obama, Manmohan Singh begin restricted talks.

‘Macho man’ Putin zooms in Formula One racecar

LONDON – Russian Prime Minister Valdimir Putin had a taste of Formula One racing on Sunday when he tried his driving skills on a yellow Renault, reaching a speed of almost 150 miles per hour.

Putin has added Formula One racing to the macho pursuits he has showcased on a long list of action man activities, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Macho man’ Putin zooms in Formula One racecar.

India committed to engage with Pakistan: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday said India was committed to resolving all issues with Pakistan.

Addressing a joint press conference with US President Barack Obama, Manmohan Singh said a moderate and peaceful Pakistan is in the interest of India, South Asia and the world as a whole”.
“We are committed to engage …. Original source  : India committed to engage with Pakistan: PM.

US can play ‘any role’ on Kashmir, says Obama

NEW DELHI – The US cannot provide a solution to the India-Pakistan dispute over Kashmir but it can play “any role” if the two countries so desire, President Barack Obama said Monday.

Calling the Kashmir row a “long-standing dispute between India and Pakistan”, Obama said that it was in the interest of both New Delhi …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US can play ‘any role’ on Kashmir, says Obama.

India-US ties indispensable: Obama

NEW DELHI – The relationship between India and the US is indispensable, US President Barack Obama said here Monday after his talks with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

Thanking Manmohan Singh for a “wonderful dinner” Sunday night, Obama said he had come to India “because I believe the relationship between India and the US is indispensable”.
… Original article on : India-US ties indispensable: Obama.

India, US to build strategic relationship: PM

NEW DELHI – India and the US have decided to work as equal partners in “a strategic relationship that will positively and decisively influence world peace”, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Monday.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : India, US to build strategic relationship: PM.

President Barack Obama In New Delhi: Meets PM Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- On the third day of his official trip to India, United States President Barack Obama began talks with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh over a variety of bilateral as well as other matters. The U.S. President arrived in New Delhi on Sunday afternoon along with his wife First Lady Michelle Obama …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : President Barack Obama In New Delhi: Meets PM Manmohan Singh.

Complete shutdown in Jammu against Omar’s accession remark

JAMMU – Jammu observed a complete shutdown Monday to protest Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s remark in the state assembly last month that Jammu and Kashmir had “acceded to and not merged with India”.

All shops and business establishments remained closed, and traffic went off roads in Jammu city, where the state government offices …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Complete shutdown in Jammu against Omar’s accession remark.

Supreme Court adjourns Mayawati graft case to Feb 15

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday adjourned the hearing in the disproportionate assets case against Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati till Feb 15.

The apex court bench of Justice B. Sudarshan Reddy and Justice S.S. Nijjar, adjourning the hearing, said the court would take up the matter for final hearing Feb 15.
The apex … Original source on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court adjourns Mayawati graft case to Feb 15.

India-US ties will define 21st century, says Obama (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – India and the US are the world’s largest democracies sharing “certain values” and their relationship will be a defining one in the 21st century, President Barack Obama said after receiving a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan here Monday.

“As I have said earlier, I believe the partnership between the US and India … Original article on : India-US ties will define 21st century, says Obama (Second Lead).

Zia opposes transit facility to India

DHAKA – Opposition leader Khaleda Zia has come out strongly against the government decision to allow New Delhi to use the Bangladeshi territory to take goods from one part of India to another.

Zia told a public rally Sunday that India would not pay any duty for the transit of the goods.
“Earlier, they (government) …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Zia opposes transit facility to India.

US president arrives in Indonesia

JAKARTA – US President Barack Obama arrived in Jakarta Tuesday afternoon for a 24-hour visit to a country where he spent part of his childhood.

Amid extra-tight security, Obama’s plane touched down at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force base in eastern Jakarta, and the US president was welcomed by Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa. Accompanied by … Read more »»».

Bush says he ordered Pentagon to plan Iran attack

LONDON – George W. Bush directed the Pentagon to plan an attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities, the former US president has revealed in his memoirs.

He also considered a covert attack on Syria at Israel’s request, Bush disclosed in “Decision Points”, his 497-page account of his time in office, the Daily Telegraph reported. …. Original article  : Bush says he ordered Pentagon to plan Iran attack.

Reforming UNSC more complicated after US backing India: Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – US President Barack Obama’s support to India for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council has upset Pakistan which said “it will make the process of reforming Security Council even more complicated”.

A spokesman of the Foreign Office Tuesday said that it has taken notice of the (US) president’s statement because the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Reforming UNSC more complicated after US backing India: Pakistan.

Orissa is now Odisha, Oriya is Odia

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha Tuesday cleared legislation seeking to rename Orissa as Odisha and the language spoken in the state as Odia from Oriya.

The bill to alter the name of the eastern state was introduced in this years budget session and was passed on the first day of the month-long winter … Original article on : Orissa is now Odisha, Oriya is Odia.

36 percent voting in Bihar polls (Third Lead)

PATNA – Around 36 percent votes were cast by Tuesday afternoon in the fifth phase of the Bihar assembly elections to pick a new 243-member house. However, minor incidents of violence marred the otherwise peaceful polling.

Polling is being held for 35 constituencies spread across eight drought-hit districts, over a dozen of which are …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Scams trigger stormy start to parliament winter session

NEW DELHI – The winter session of parliament Tuesday got off to a stormy start with opposition parties targeting the government over “scams after scams” and demanded a debate on the corruption allegations.

As soon as the session began at 11 a.m., opposition members refused to let the Question Hour proceed in the Lok Sabha … Original article on : Scams trigger stormy start to parliament winter session.

I am innocent, says Ashok Chavan

MUMBAI – Declaring his innocence, outgoing Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan Tuesday said he still enjoyed the confidence of Congress president Sonia Gandhi and an inquiry into the Adarsh housing scam would absolve him of any blame.

Addressing a press conference soon after submitting his resignation to Governor K. Sankaranarayanan, he said the Congress leadership … Read this article on Gaea Times at : I am innocent, says Ashok Chavan.

Manmohan Singh and Obama resolve to strengthen India-U.S. strategic partnership

NEW DELHI – Reaffirming their nations’ shared values and increasing convergence of interests, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and President Barack Obama have resolved to expand and strengthen the India-U.S. global strategic partnership

In a joint statement, the two leaders welcomed the deepening relationship between the world’s two largest democracies.

They commended the growing cooperation between …. Source article  : Manmohan Singh and Obama resolve to strengthen India-U.S. strategic partnership.

Congress eases out Kalmadi and Chavan, hopes Parliament session will be ‘productive’

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh hoped that the Winter Session of Parliament will be peaceful and productive, saying that the Government was willing to discuss all issues with the opposition parties.

“We are looking forward to the session and we hope that this session will be peaceful and productive,” he told reporters outside …. Read the original article  : Congress eases out Kalmadi and Chavan, hopes Parliament session will be ‘productive’.

Matt Lauer Interviews George W. Bush

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- Former United States President George W. Bush told NBC’s Matt Lauer in an interview that was aired on Monday night that there were very decisions that he regretted taking during his years as the U.S. president. The interview with the NBC host that was aired last night witnessed the former American …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Matt Lauer Interviews George W. Bush.

Gibbs threatened to pull Obama from New Delhi meeting over press dispute

NEW DELHI – White House press secretary Robert Gibbs had reportedly threatened to pull US President Barack Obama from a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on Monday after security tried to restrict the number of U.S. reporters allowed into the event at Hyderabad House in New Delhi.

According to Fox News, the bilateral … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gibbs threatened to pull Obama from New Delhi meeting over press dispute.

Qureshi ‘deflects’ Obama, Singh’s ‘Pak epicenter of terror’ accusations

ISLAMABAD – Rebuffing Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s recent remarks regarding regional stability, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said that terror groups were active in India as well as Pakistan, and that one cannot be specific towards any country in this regard.

Qureshi told a TV channel that terror networks should not be linked … Read more »».

I still enjoy the confidence of Sonia Gandhi: Chavan

MUMBAI – Ashok Chavan, who resigned as Maharashtra chief minister, said Tuesday that he still enjoyed the confidence of Congress president Sonia Gandhi.

“I have been informed that pending inquiry, (my) resignation has been accepted. That’s why I met with Mahrashtra governor and submitted to him my resignation,” Chavan told reporters here.
“I still enjoy … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : I still enjoy the confidence of Sonia Gandhi: Chavan.

Action against A. Raja is PM’s prerogative: Congress

NEW DELHI – Action against Telecom Minister A. Raja – who belongs to ally DMK and has been dogged by graft accusations – is the prerogative of the prime minister, the Congress said Tuesday even as it moved against Ashok Chavan and Suresh Kalmadi over corruption allegations.

Congress spokesperson Jayanthi Natarajan told reporters outside parliament … Original article on : Action against A. Raja is PM’s prerogative: Congress.

Congress asks Chavan to quit as Maharashtra chief minister (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI/MUMBAI – Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan Tuesday stepped down after the Congress leadership accepted his resignation following allegations of his connections with the Adarsh housing scam.

Chavan, who had offered to quit last week, submitted his resignation to Maharashtra Governor K. Sankaranarayanan who asked him to continue till a successor was appointed.
…. Source article  : Congress asks Chavan to quit as Maharashtra chief minister (Second Lead).

Indonesia eagerly awaits Obama’s brief homecoming

JAKARTA – Indonesians were eagerly awaiting the arrival Tuesday of US President Barack Obama for a 24-hour visit to a country where he spent part of his childhood.

Many Indonesians fondly call Obama “Anak Menteng”, or “Menteng Kid”, after a Jakarta neighbourhood where he lived from 1967 to 1971 after his mother married an Indonesian.
…. Source article  : Indonesia eagerly awaits Obama’s brief homecoming.

President Barack Obama’s Speech In Indian Parliament

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- During the last leg of his three-day trip to India, United States President Barack Obama addressed the Indian Parliament on Monday evening. The speech in which the United states President addressed the members of the Parliament lasted for about 40 minutes and the manner in which it unfolded clearly pointed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : President Barack Obama’s Speech In Indian Parliament.

Parliament winter session begins on stormy note

NEW DELHI – The winter session of parliament began here Tuesday on a stormy note with the opposition targeting the government over alleged corruption in the Commonwealth Games and Mumbai’s housing society scam.

As soon as the session began, members from the Left and some regional parties in the Lok Sabha, including Mulayam Singh …. Source  : Parliament winter session begins on stormy note.

Antony orders CBI probe into Mumbai housing scam

NEW DELHI – Defence Minister A.K. Antony Tuesday ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the multi-crore rupees Adarsh housing society scam, allegedly involving top politicians, bureaucrats and former service chiefs, an official said.

A CBI probe has been ordered and the investigating agency will take over soon, defence ministry spokesperson Sitanshu Kar … Read : Antony orders CBI probe into Mumbai housing scam.

Kalmadi’s resignation means nothing: BJP

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) Tuesday said Suresh Kalmadi’s resignation as secretary of the Congress Parliamentary Party meant “nothing” and asserted it would still raise the corruption issue in parliament.

Stepping down from Congress Parliamentary Party means nothing, BJP spokesperson Prakash Javadekar told a TV channel. The announcement of the resignation came …. Source  : Kalmadi’s resignation means nothing: BJP.

Chavan’s job may herald changes in government, Congress

NEW DELHI – New faces are likely in the Congress and the government following the appointment of central minister Prithviraj Chavan as the next chief minister of Maharshtra, party sources said Wednesday.

Chavan, 64, shouldered key responsibilities both in the party and the government, which party leaders said was a sign of trust he enjoyed …. Original article  : Chavan’s job may herald changes in government, Congress.

Cameron to urge China for democracy, free media and independent courts

BEIJING – British Prime Minister David Cameron, who is on a high-profile state visit to Beijing, would reportedly use a public speech to urge China for organising democratic elections, a free media and independent courts, which are vital for a modern economy.

“If …. Original article  : Cameron to urge China for democracy, free media and independent courts.

RSS holds nationwide protests against Hindu terror tag

NEW DELHI – Hundreds of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activists, led by their top leaders, Wednesday staged protests in several places across India against the central government’s alleged “political conspiracy” to link the group to terror activities.

Protests were held in various state capitals and district headquarters, RSS spokesperson Ram Madhav told IANS.
RSS … Read more >>>.

CBI probe detrimental for Army: Jaswant Singh

NEW DELHI – Even as Defence Minister A.K. Antony ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the multi-crore Adarsh housing society scam, former defence minister Jaswant Singh Wednesday said the probe will be detrimental for the army.

“Personally, I am totally and absolutely opposed to senior officers of the rank of chief of … Original source on Gaea Times at : CBI probe detrimental for Army: Jaswant Singh.

Sharad Pawar supports Prithviraj Chavan as Maharashtra Chief Minister

MUMBAI – Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Wednesday endorsed the selection of Prithviraj Chavan as new Maharashtra Chief Minister.

Talking to reporters here, Pawar said: “Prithviraj is a good, sober man and I hope he will do good work and will definitely revive Maharashtra.”

Describing Chavan’s selection as the new Chief Minister as “good” … Original article on : Sharad Pawar supports Prithviraj Chavan as Maharashtra Chief Minister.

China, Britain cooperation outweighs competition: Hu Jintao

BEIJING – Chinese President Hu Jintao Wednesday said cooperation was stronger than competition between China and Britain as both the two economies were compatible.

Hu made the remarks while meeting visiting British Prime Minister David Cameron in the Great Hall of the People in downtown Beijing, Xinhua reported.
Hu noted that Cameron, the youngest … Original article on : China, Britain cooperation outweighs competition: Hu Jintao.

Prithviraj Chavan Named New Maharashtra CM

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Following the resignation of Ashok Chavan, the union government has named Prithviraj Chavan as the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra. The formal announcement came today morning after Pranab Mukherjee addressed the media following a meeting with the Congress Chief Sonia Gandhi and Defense Minister AK Antony. Pranab Mukherjee said that … Read more : Prithviraj Chavan Named New Maharashtra CM.

Tussle over devolution of five Pakistan ministries

ISLAMABAD – The provincial governments have locked horns with the federal government in Pakistan over transfer of powers of five ministries and greater autonomy to the provinces.

The 18th amendment to the Pakistani constitution was passed in July this year, making it obligatory for the federal government to devolve those ministries to the [..] Read the original article: here.

Vladimir Putin is cold-blooded, reveals George W Bush in tell-all

LONDON – North Korea’s Kim Jongil is a food-hurling tantrum thrower, Jacques Chirac of France likes to lecture, Tony Blair is a stalwart friend, and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin is “cold-blooded”-these are some of the revelations former US President George W Bush has made in his new book.

Bush’s ‘Decision Points,’ has packed his eight … Read more >>>.

PM leaves for Seoul, cautions against protectionist sentiments

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has cautioned against protectionist sentiments, saying that it is in India’s interest to have an “open, stable and rule-based” international economic environment in all matters including trade and investment flows. “

Dr. Singh, who left for South Korea on Wednesday to attend the G-20 Summit, in his departure …. Source article  : PM leaves for Seoul, cautions against protectionist sentiments.

Chavan says “highly honoured and humbled” in taking over as 17th Maharashtra CM

NEW DELHI – Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions and Parliamentary Affairs, Prithviraj Chavan, on Wednesday said that he was humbled and honoured to be asked by Congress president Sonia Gandhi to take charge as the 17th chief minister of Maharashtra.

“This morning, Mr. … Read more »»».

Prithviraj Chavan will revive Maharashtra: Pawar

NEW DELHI – Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Sharad Pawar Wednesday said that he fully backed the choice of Prithviraj Chavan as the new chief minister of Maharashtra and added that he would revive the state.

“It is a good selection, he will revive Maharashtra,” Pawar told reporters outside parliament.
“He will have …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Prithviraj Chavan will revive Maharashtra: Pawar.

US rallying others against China, says daily

BEIJING – The US encourages Asian countries to rally against China, cautioned a Chinese daily and added: “As the major target of US smart power, China has to be on guard.”

Global Times said in an editorial Wednesday: “The US economy has been struggling in the past few years. Yet, the concept of `smart power’ …. Source article  : US rallying others against China, says daily.

India for UNSC: China willing to negotiate

BEIJING – China was willing to negotiate with other UN member states, including India, on the UN Security Council reform, a foreign ministry official here has said while reacting to US President Barack Obama’s support to New Delhi’s bid for permanent membership of the council.

Hong Lei, a spokesman, Tuesday told a press conference …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Post telegrams seeking Raja’s sack, Jayalalithaa tells people

CHENNAI – AIADMK chief J. Jayalalithaa Wednesday called upon Indians to send one-line telegrams to President Pratibha Patil demanding the dismissal of tainted union Telecom Minister A. Raja, who belongs to arch rival DMK.

In a statement here Wednesday, Jayalalithaa said according to the the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), the allotment of 2G … Read more >>>.

I accept Maharashtra CM’s role with humility: Prithviraj Chavan

NEW DELHI – Union minister Prithviraj Chavan said Wednesday that he was “highly honoured and humbled” Congress chief Sonia Gandhi’s decision to make him the next chief minister of Maharashtra, which was conveyed to him by Defence Minister A.K.Antony in the morning.

The minister of state in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said he …. Source article  : I accept Maharashtra CM’s role with humility: Prithviraj Chavan.

India for UNSC: Pakistan conveys disappointment to US envoy

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has conveyed its disappointment to the US ambassador here over its support to India as permanent member in the UN Security Council (UNSC).

Conveying Pakistan’s concern, Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir told Ambassador Cameron Munter that the move could have serious repercussions for the conflict-ridden region and reform of the world body, … Original source on Gaea Times at : India for UNSC: Pakistan conveys disappointment to US envoy.

Lok Sabha adjourned till noon

NEW DELHI – An uproar by opposition MPs over the Telecom Minister A. Raja’s alleged involvement in the 2G spectrum scam saw the Lok Sabha being adjourned till 12 noon Wednesday, the second day of the winter session.

The house opened with opposition MPs disrupting question hour over the issue.
–Indo-Asians News Service
…. Original article  : Lok Sabha adjourned till noon.

Border settlement key issue between India, Bangladesh: Envoy

AGARTALA – Resolving the long-pending boundary disputes between India and Bangladesh is the core issue between the two neighbours, Bangladesh High Commissioner Tariq A. Karim said Wednesday.

“Besides the 6.5-km disputed boundary, there are undemarcated enclaves and adverse possession of land along the border with India and Bangladesh,” Karim told IANS.
“There are borders which … Read : Border settlement key issue between India, Bangladesh: Envoy.

Prithviraj Chavan: low-profile technocrat is new man for Maharashtra (Profile)

MUMBAI – A technocrat with a clean, non-controversial image, a low-profile leader and a man who enjoys the confidence of the top Congress leadership — that’s how colleagues describe Prithviraj Chavan, who is set to be the new chief minister of Maharashtra.

Born March 17, 1946 into a Marathi family in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Chavan …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Prithviraj Chavan: low-profile technocrat is new man for Maharashtra (Profile).

Parliament adjourned till Monday following Telecom scam report

NEW DELHI – Both Houses of Parliament was adjourned till Monday following the demands of the Opposition for dismissal of Union Telecom Minister A Raja for his alleged role in the 2G-spectrum scam, while the Congress party workers criticized the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) for K S Sudarshan’s anti-Sonia Gandhi …. Original source  : Parliament adjourned till Monday following Telecom scam report.

We can’t forget Indians’ sacrifices for us: Bangladesh minister

AGARTALA – Bangladesh cannot forget the sacrifices made by Indians to help it gain independence in 1971 and the two countries need to work together to resolve issues, visiting Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Dipu Moni said in Tripura Thursday.

“The history and culture of both India and Bangladesh have been guiding us to go together, work … Read more : We can’t forget Indians’ sacrifices for us: Bangladesh minister.

Parliament adjourned for week over 2G spectrum scam, Raja (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The deadlock between the government and opposition over alleged corruption in 2G spectrum allocation and IT Minister A. Raja worsened Thursday with both houses of parliament adjourned for the week without any business being transacted for the second consecutive day.

BJP and other opposition MPs threatened not to let parliament function …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Parliament adjourned for week over 2G spectrum scam, Raja (Second Lead).

New video shows skimpily clad women ushered into Berlusconi’s house

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi is mortified after a new video emerged showing miniskirted women being ushered into one of his properties.

Already reeling from revelations that he had entertained Karimael Mahroug, a 17-year-old Moroccan belly dancer before intervening to free her when she was arrested on suspicion of theft, the Prime Minister was …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New video shows skimpily clad women ushered into Berlusconi’s house.

Jayalalithaa offers to prop Congress if DMK goes out

NEW DELHI – AIADMK leader J. Jayalalithaa Thursday offered to back the Congress-led government if its sacking of tainted Communications and IT Minister A. Raja led his party DMK to take back its support.

Jayalalithaa made the offer in an interview to TimesNow television channel, saying she had no conditions behind propping Prime Minister Manmohan …. Source  : Jayalalithaa offers to prop Congress if DMK goes out.

Ex-Oz PM and ‘man of steel’ Howard is just a footnote in Bush memoirs

SYDNEY – Former US president George W. Bush appears to have confined his “deputy sheriff” and ex-Australian Prime Minister John Howard to little more than a footnote in his just-published memoirs-Decision Points.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Bush includes Howard in a list of leaders who in 2002 shared the Bush administration’s assessment of the …. Read the original article  : here.

Parliament adjourned for second day over scams

NEW DELHI – Both houses of parliament were adjourned without even a minute of business being transacted for the second consecutive day Thursday as opposition parties again took up the issue of corruption and demanded a probe by a panel of MPs.

Ruling Congress MPs also protested near Speaker Meira Kumars podium against Rashtriya … Read more »»».

It’s Chhath! Nitish, Lalu take a break from politics

PATNA – The Bihar polls are still on, but thanks to Chhath Puja, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and archrival Lalu Prasad are taking a break from campaigning and soaking in the festivities as their families invoke the sun god.

“Please, no politics, it is Chhath,” Lalu Prasad, chief of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), told …. Read the original article  : It’s Chhath! Nitish, Lalu take a break from politics.

Jostling for cabinet berths in Mumbai ahead of swearing-in

MUMBAI – With legislators from the Congress and ally Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) jostling for cabinet berths since morning Thursday, Maharashtra’s chief minister designate Prithviraj Chavan got a taste of realpolitik even before the swearing-in ceremony.

The technocrat-turned-politician with little experience of state politics will be sworn in Thursday afternoon. While Chavan may be … Read more >>.

Iraq PM Maliki stays in power for second term with help of tentative deal

BAGHDAD – Iraq Prime Minister Nuri Kamal al-Maliki will remain the country’s Prime Minister for a second term, thanks to leaders reaching a tentative agreement late Wednesday night to create a unity government embracing the country’s major ethnic and religious factions, ending an eight-month political impasse.

According to the New York Times, the agreement assures, for … Read more : Iraq PM Maliki stays in power for second term with help of tentative deal.

Manmohan Singh seeks better trade ties with Ethiopia

SEOUL – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, has expressed a desire for India and Ethiopia to strengthen their bilateral trade and investment ties.

Dr. Singh conveyed this message during a meeting with his Ethiopian counterpart Meles Zenawi on the sidelines of the fifth Group of Twenty (G-20) Summit in South Korean Capital Seoul.

Ethiopia, which is … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Manmohan Singh seeks better trade ties with Ethiopia.

Musharraf wanted to replace Jinnah’s image with his own on Pak currency notes: Jamali

Islamabad, Nov 11(ANI): Former Pakistan Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali has revealed that former President Pervez Musharraf wanted to replace Mohammad Ali Jinnah’s image on the country’s currency notes with his photo.

Jamali further said that Musharraf’s wish could not be materialized as he “straight forward refused” the idea.

He also told Musharraf that Jinnah was … Original source on Gaea Times at : Musharraf wanted to replace Jinnah’s image with his own on Pak currency notes: Jamali.

Prithviraj Chavan to take oath as Maharashtra CM

MUMBAI – Former Minister of State for Science and Technology Prithviraj Chavan will be sworn-in as the 22nd Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Thursday, while Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar will take oath as Deputy Chief Minister.

Maharashtra Governor K Sankaranarayanan will administer oath of office and secrecy to them at 4.30 p.m. at …. Original article  : Prithviraj Chavan to take oath as Maharashtra CM.

Lok Sabha adjourned again over corruption scams

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha was adjourned Thursday morning for an hour as opposition parties again took up the issue of corruption scams and demanded a discussion.

Speaker Meira Kumar adjourned the house till noon as soon as members assembled at 11 a.m., a day after similar protests and opposition MPs demanding a …. Original article  : Lok Sabha adjourned again over corruption scams.

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 11/10/2010

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to key Administration posts:

Eric G. Postel, Assistant Administrator for Economic … Read this article on Gaea Times at : President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 11/10/2010.

Notice from the President on the Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to Iran

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

 On November 14, 1979, by Executive Order 12170, the President declared a national emergency with respect to Iran, pursuant to the International Emergency Economic …. Source  : Notice from the President on the Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to Iran.

Letter from the President on the Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to Iran

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Dear Madam Speaker:        (Dear Mr. President:)
Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for the automatic termination of a national … Read more »».

Statement on the Initial Bowles-Simpson Bipartisan Fiscal Commission Proposal

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

“The President will wait until the bipartisan fiscal commission finishes its work before commenting. He respects the challenging task that the Co-Chairs and the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chavan stakes claim, swearing in Thursday

MUMBAI – Maharashtra Chief Minister-designate Prithviraj Chavan, along with Deputy Chief Minister-designate Ajit Pawar met Governor K. Sankaranarayanan in Raj Bhavan late Wednesday and staked claim to form the new government. Chavan will be sworn-in Thursday.

Chavan reached Raj Bhavan at around 10 p.m. and waited for Pawar, who showed up only 40 minutes later.
…. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Prithviraj Chavan, Ajit Pawar brace for Maharashtra innings (Night Lead)

MUMBAI – Technocrat-turned-politician Prithviraj Chavan of the Congress was late Wednesday invited by Maharashtra Governor K. Sankaranarayanan to form the next government in the state. Ajit Pawar of the Nationalist Congress Party will be his deputy.

The swearing-in ceremony will be held at Raj Bhavan at 4.30 p.m. Thursday, official sources said here late … Read more >>.

Karunanidhi defends IT minister Raja

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi Friday came out strongly in defence of his tainted DMK colleague and central minister A. Raja, saying there was no need for him to quit.

“What wrong has he done? He only went by the rules,” Karunanidhi told reporters here amid growing clamour for the communications and [..] Read the original article: here.

Harvard scholar is frontrunner for Tibetan PM-in-exile

DHARAMSALA – Lobsang Sangey, a senior fellow of Harvard Law School, Friday emerged as the frontrunner during the primary poll to nominate candidates for the Kalon Tripa or ‘prime minister’ of the Tibetan government-in-exile here, an official said.

“Sangey got the maximum number of votes in the Oct 3 primary elections for the Kalon Tripa. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Harvard scholar is frontrunner for Tibetan PM-in-exile.

Myanmar deports two Australian journalists

MELBOURNE – Myanmar has deported two Australian journalists who were working in the country on a documentary on independent media in southeast Asia, media reports said Friday.

A report by Australia’s AAP said that despite having long-stay visas, the Australian film crew were arrested and taken to the airport to be deported Thursday night.
The … Original article on : Myanmar deports two Australian journalists.

Rosaiah, other Congress leaders hold anti-RSS protest

HYDERABAD – Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K. Rosaiah, state Congress chief D. Srinivas, party MPs and other leaders Friday participated in a massive protest here against RSS leader K.S. Sudarshan’s remarks against their party president Sonia Gandhi.

Addressing protesters at Basheerbagh in the heart of the city, Rosaiah said it was an unpardonable crime if …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Rosaiah, other Congress leaders hold anti-RSS protest.

Gadkari used Sudarshan as proxy to attack Sonia: Congress MP

PANAJI – Worried about his name being dragged into Mumbai’s Adarsh society scam, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Nitin Gadkari has used former Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief K.S. Sudarshan as a proxy to make distasteful allegations against Sonia Gandhi, a Congress MP said here Friday.

Goa’s lone Rajya Sabha member Shantaram Naik, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gadkari used Sudarshan as proxy to attack Sonia: Congress MP.

Corruption, instability mark 10 years of Jharkhand

RANCHI – When Jharkhand was carved out of Bihar 10 years ago, there was euphoria that the economically backward region, with a high tribal population, would finally see prosperity. But the state is looking back at a trail of broken promises, political instability and deep-rooted corruption as it completes a decade Nov 15.

Maoist insurgency …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Corruption, instability mark 10 years of Jharkhand.

UN mission to leave Nepal on January 15

KATHMANDU – Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal has said the United Nations Mission in Nepal (UNMIN) will leave Nepal on January 15 as per the agreement.

According to a RSS report, Prime Minister Nepal said this during a courtesy call paid on him by German Ambassador to Nepal, Verena Grafin von Roedern here Thursday.

“I am fully …. Source  : UN mission to leave Nepal on January 15.

UK fears N. Korean attack on Seoul G20 summit

LONDON – British delegates travelling with Prime Minister David Cameron are taking very seriously the potential threat that North Korea might try to wreck the G20 summit of world leaders in Seoul.

The Guardian quoted a diplomat as saying that there has been speculation that the North Koreans will attempt some kind of “disruptive incursion …. Read the original article  : here.

Berlusconi’s exotic dancer account contradicted by magistrates

LONDON – Italian judicial officials have contradicted Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi’s account of how he intervened to save a Moroccan teenage exotic dancer from a theft allegation.

Italian magistrates also called into question claims made in parliament by Berlusconi’s interior minister, Roberto Maroni that the 74-year-old tycoon’s intervention in the case of the 17-year-old …. Read the original article  : here.

Economy set to grow nine percent in 2011-12: Manmohan Singh

SEOUL – The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Friday said India will revert to its pre-crisis economic growth rate of nine per cent in the next fiscal.

Addressing the plenary session of the fifth G-20 Summit in Seoul this morning, Dr. Singh said: “I am happy to say that the Indian economy has rebounded fairly …. Source article  : Economy set to grow nine percent in 2011-12: Manmohan Singh.

Manmohan Singh asks G-20 nations to avoid competitive devaluation of currency

SEOUL – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Friday urged G-20 countries to avoid competitive devaluation of currencies at all costs and resist any resurgence in protectionism.

Addressing the plenary session of the fifth G-20 Summit in Seoul this morning, Dr. Singh said: “Advance deficit countries must follow policy of fiscal consolidation. This should be …. Source article  : Manmohan Singh asks G-20 nations to avoid competitive devaluation of currency.

Chidambaram to review security strategy in Assam

GUWAHATI – Union Home Minister P.C. Chidambaram will be here Friday to review the security situation in Assam in view of stepped up attacks by tribal separatists, who have killed 24 people this week.

Chidambaram arrives around 2.45 p.m. and straightaway chairs a meeting of the Unified Command Headquarters at the Border Security Force …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

I am in love with China: Zardari

ISLAMABAD – Stating that visiting China is “like going home”, Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari says he has “an internal romance” with the country and is in love with its people and culture.

“I think I have an internal romance with China. I am very biased and I love every part of it, the beauty … Read : I am in love with China: Zardari.

No question of resigning, matter sub judice: Raja

NEW DELHI – Communications and IT Minister A. Raja Friday said he would not resign over allegations of his involvement in the 2G spectrum scam and added that AIADMK chief J. Jayalalithaa had no “moral right” to speak on the matter.

“The matter is sub judice. We will prove everything in the court…The question of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : No question of resigning, matter sub judice: Raja.

Africa keen to learn from Indian elections: Zambian poll chief

NEW DELHI – African countries are increasingly looking at India as a model democracy and an example to emulate, says Zambia’s poll panel chief, Justice Florence N.M. Mumba, who is here to study electoral practices.

“We have come here to look at the electoral system in India and how the democratic system functions in India. … Read : Africa keen to learn from Indian elections: Zambian poll chief.

No question of my resigning: Raja

NEW DELHI – Communications and Information Technology Minister A. Raja Friday said he would not resign over allegations of his involvement in the 2G spectrum scam.

“The question of my resignation does not arise,” Raja said on the sidelines of a national e-governance event here.
Raja, a DMK MP and a key ally of the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : No question of my resigning: Raja.

Iraqi political impasse ends with key positions filled

BAGHDAD – Iraq ended eight months of political deadlock Thursday when parliament elected a speaker and a president for the country, under a complex political deal that paves the way for the formation of a new government.

Incumbent President Jalal al-Talabani, from a Kurdish party, would remain in his post for another term after winning …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Political deal ‘big step for Iraq’, says US

WASHINGTON – The US Thursday called the breakthrough political agreement in Iraq a “big step” that will result in an inclusive government and major redistribution of power.

“What we’ve seen in Iraq is … the emergence of politics, Iraqis resolving their differences … through the political process,” a senior administration official told reporters.
“That is … Read more : Political deal ‘big step for Iraq’, says US.

US-Israel serious to include Arabs in peace deal: Netanyahu

NEW YORK – Israel and the US are “quite serious” in adding Arab governments in the Middle East peace negotiations, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday in New York before his meeting with US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton.

Both Netanyahu and Clinton told reporters before their meeting that they had conferred by telephone …. Source article  : US-Israel serious to include Arabs in peace deal: Netanyahu.

Political impasse ends as Iraq appoints parliament speaker

BAGHDAD – Iraq achieved a breakthrough Thursday when it named a speaker for its parliament, under a complex political deal that ends eight months of deadlock and paves the way for the formation of a new government.

Parliament voted Iraqiya List member Osama al-Nujaifi, a Sunni Arab nationalist, as its speaker. The only candidate named …. Original source  : Political impasse ends as Iraq appoints parliament speaker.

Trade and current account deficits are managed within limits: Manmohan Singh

ON BOARD AIR INDIA ONE – The Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, has said trade and current account deficits are managed within limits, and added that capital flows will be managed in a manner that it does not give rise to inflationary problems.

The Prime Minister, who returned to India from the G-20 summit in South … Original article on : Trade and current account deficits are managed within limits: Manmohan Singh.

Jiabao to visit Pak next month for “deepening strategic cooperation”

GUANGZHOU – The Chinese Prime Minister, Wen Jiabao, will visit Pakistan next month to “deepen strategic cooperation” and establish a mechanism for formal and structured dialogue to ensure smooth and real time communication on all issues of common interest.

“We are looking forward to establishing contacts between leaderships of the two countries,” the Dawn quoted Jiabao, … Original article on : Jiabao to visit Pak next month for “deepening strategic cooperation”.

Obama’s speech at Parliament reflects India’s uniqueness: PM

ON BOARD AIR INDIA ONE – Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has said the speeches delivered by US President Barack Obama during his recent visit to India is a reflection of the uniqueness of India as a functioning democracy, committed to the rule of law, committed to respect for fundamental human freedoms and yet managing …. Read the original article  : Obama’s speech at Parliament reflects India’s uniqueness: PM.

Obama unconnected to reality: Bobby Jindal

WASHINGTON – Louisiana’s Indian American Governor Bobby Jindal has accused President Barack Obama of not being “connected to reality on the ground” during the Gulf oil spill and more focused on its political aftermath.

In a new book titled “Leadership and Crisis,” set to be released Monday, Jindal recounts a pair of private conversations with … Read : Obama unconnected to reality: Bobby Jindal.

Khaleda Zia put under house arrest, says Bangladesh opposition (Second Lead)

DHAKA – Bangladesh’s main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Saturday said its leader and former prime minister Khaleda Zia was put “under house arrest” as the government moved to evict her early morning from the house given to her after her husband’s assassination in 1981.

Police and Rapid Action Battallion personnel took possession of the …. Source  : Khaleda Zia put under house arrest, says Bangladesh opposition (Second Lead).

Prime Minister rules out differences between US-China over currency devaluation

ON BOARD AIR INDIA ONE – The Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, has ruled out any differences between China and the United States over the currency devaluation, saying the two nations have very intimate relations and the exchange rates controversy will affect them very substantially.

The Prime Minister, who returned to New Delhi after the G … Read more >>.

Clown elected to Brazil Congress takes literacy test

Sao Paulo, Nov 13 (IANS/EFE) Brazilian clown Tiririca who was elected to Brazil’s lower house of Congress has taken a literacy test to prove that he can read and write. He won the legislative elections in October with over 1.3 million votes.

He took the test Thursday — a requirement for serving as a lawmaker … Read more »»».

Khaleda Zia evicted from home

DHAKA – Former Bangladesh prime minister and opposition leader Khaleda Zia was Saturday morning evicted from the government house which was given to her after her husband’s assassination in 1981. The Hasina government has told the court the allotment was illegal.

Police and Rapid Action Battalion personnel entered Zia’s house in the Dhaka Cantonment area … Read more : Khaleda Zia evicted from home.

Pakistanis won’t like Obama’s India endorsement: Musharraf

WASHINGTON – Former Pakistan president Pervez Musharraf says Pakistanis are not going to like US President Barack Obama’s endorsement of India’s bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council or his reference to terrorist threat from Pakistan.

“Well, frankly, I didn’t expect it. And may I say very frankly, people in Pakistan won’t …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

No ‘particular concern’ from Pakistan on UNSC seat for India:US

WASHINGTON – Pakistan has not any expressed “particular concern” about US President Barack Obama’s endorsement of India’s bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, according to a US official.

“We have briefed the Government of Pakistan on the President’s announcement. I’m not aware that there was any particular concern expressed,” State … Read more >>.

Aung San Suu Kyi set for evening release

YANGON – Myanmar’s junta appeared set to release opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi from house detention Saturday evening in a bid to placate international condemnation of their regime.

“She will be released some time after 6 p.m. (1130 GMT),” said a senior police official who asked to remain anonymous.
Hundreds of her supporters, members … Original article on : Aung San Suu Kyi set for evening release.

Readout of the Vice President’s Call with Iraqi Council of Representatives Speaker Osama Al-Nujayfi

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

The Vice President spoke today with Iraqi Council of Representatives Speaker Osama al-Nujayfi to congratulate him on his election to his new position and …. Original source  : Readout of the Vice President’s Call with Iraqi Council of Representatives Speaker Osama Al-Nujayfi.

Statement by the President on Elections in Tanzania

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

On behalf of the United States, I congratulate the people of the United Republic of Tanzania on your recent national election and your continued … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Statement by the President on Elections in Tanzania.

I want opposition to remain divided: Buddhadeb

KOLKATA – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee has said he would always like to see the opposition parties in the state divided.

“We have to understand the issue. It’s natural that we will always want an overall unity among the Left parties. And I will always want that there should be differences among our … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : I want opposition to remain divided: Buddhadeb.

She is a liar, Buddhadeb says of Mamata

KOLKATA – Without naming arch rival Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee Friday said that false allegations by her against the ruling Marxists had forced him “to call her a liar”.

I am into politics for a long time. I had political differences with many leaders but I have never …. Source article  : She is a liar, Buddhadeb says of Mamata.

Poor alienated due to tardy policy implementation: Buddhadeb

KOLKATA – In the wake of a string of electoral reverses over the last two years, West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee Friday admitted that laxity in implementing developmental policies led to the alienation of the poor from the state’s ruling Marxists.

“I do agree with the fact that a section of poor people …. Original source  : Poor alienated due to tardy policy implementation: Buddhadeb.

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individual to a key Administration post:

Joseph A. Smith, Jr., Director, Federal … Read more >>>.

Congress workers wave black flags at Sudarshan at Indore

BHOPAL – Former Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) chief K.S. Sudarshan was Friday shown black flags by Congress workers at Indore over his derogatory remarks against Congress party chief Sonia Gandhi.

Sudarshan had Wednesday made several derogatory remarks about Gandhi in Bhopal.
As Congress workers tried to wave black flags at Sudarshan, RSS cadres got into …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Swedish king’s alleged mistress breaks silence

STOCKHOLM – A former Swedish pop star Friday broke her silence about an alleged relationship with Swedish King Carl Gustaf, describing him as a “funny” person.

A chapter in a new unauthorized biography of the Swedish king was devoted to the alleged year-long affair between him and Camilla Henemark, one-time member of the pop group … Read more »».

RSS expresses regret over Sudarshan’s remarks; Congressmen hold protests (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Friday clarified that the remarks against Congress president Sonia Gandhi by its former chief K.S. Sudarshan were not the official view of the organisation and expressed regret over the “unfortunate episode”. However, the Congress sought an apology even as party supporters staged angry protests in many parts …. Read the original article  : RSS expresses regret over Sudarshan’s remarks; Congressmen hold protests (Roundup).

Tharoor fires at Arundhati Roy on Hay’s literary war ground

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Member of Parliament and writer Shashi Tharoor Sunday hit out at Arundhati Roy at the Hay Festival here, saying the Booker prize winner-activist has “gone too far to the left” and “unfortunately chooses to write about those who carry with guns”.

“Arundhati Roy has gone far too to the left like (writer-thinker) Christopher … Read more »»».

Aung San Suu Kyi calls for democracy and unity

YANGON – Myanmar democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi Sunday called for unity and national reconciliation to face the nation’s challenges as she addressed thousands of supporters a day after her release from house arrest.

“We must work together,” she told about 10,000 supporters outside her National League for Democracy (NLD) headquarters in Yangon. The …. Read the original article  : Aung San Suu Kyi calls for democracy and unity.

Is there a China-India race in Africa? (Comment)

Once again Prime Minister Manmohan Singh asserted recently, while answering a journalist, that the world was large enough to accommodate the growth ambitions of both India and China. In a similar vein but speaking specifically about Africa, a senior official in India’s Ministry of External Affairs observed, at a recent seminar in Delhi, that India-Africa …. Source  : Is there a China-India race in Africa? (Comment).

PM, Sonia meet Congress leaders over Raja

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress president Sonia Gandhi met senior party leaders here Sunday, with the opposition having stalled parliament last week to demand the ouster of Telecom Minister A. Raja over the 2G spectrum scam.

The leaders met informally in Parliament House after paying tributes to former prime minister …. Original source  : PM, Sonia meet Congress leaders over Raja.

Buckingham Palace connived to keep ‘Brown at Number 10 to seal Tory-Leb Dem coalition’

LONDON – British premier David Cameron and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg connived with Buckingham Palace to delay Gordon Brown’s departure from Downing Street while they did a deal to form a coalition, former cabinet minister David Laws claims in a new book.

David Laws, who stepped down in May as Treasury chief secretary after revelations …. Source article  : Buckingham Palace connived to keep ‘Brown at Number 10 to seal Tory-Leb Dem coalition’.

Obama and media wars (Capital Buzz)

NEW DELHI – After talks with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, US President Barack Obama had remarked lightheartedly at the joint press conference that the Indian and American media were collaborating when an American journalist asked a pointed question on Kashmir. But little did he know about simmering tensions between officers handling the media from both …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama and media wars (Capital Buzz).

Mamata Banerjee slams Left Front over forcible land acquisition

KOLKATA – Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee has slammed the Left front Government over the forcible acquisition of land in West Bengal.

Addressing a rally near Rajarhat, she said: “”Land scams have taken place in a big way at Rajarhat where the CPI (M)-led Left Front government had forcibly acquired acres after acres …. Original article  : Mamata Banerjee slams Left Front over forcible land acquisition.

Nawaz is senior, can criticise government: Gilani

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said former premier and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) chief Nawaz Sharif was a “senior” and has every right to criticise the government.

“We will not mind his criticism,” Gilani was quoted as saying in Lahore Saturday by the Online news agency.
The prime minister was on … Original article on : Nawaz is senior, can criticise government: Gilani.

Nation pays tribute to Pandit Nehru on his 121st birth anniversary

NEW DELHI – The nation on Sunday paid tribute to the first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, on his 121st birth anniversary.

A series of functions are being organised across the country to mark the occasion.

In New Delhi, an all religion prayer meeting has been held at his memorial Shanti Van this … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nation pays tribute to Pandit Nehru on his 121st birth anniversary.

Strike in Bangladesh over Khaleda Zia’s eviction

DHAKA – A nationwide dawn-to-dusk strike was called by the opposition in Bangladesh Sunday over the eviction of former prime minister Khaleda Zia from the government house she has lived in since 1972.

Roads across the country witnessed very thin traffic and all educational institutions were closed, The Daily Star newspaper reported.
The strike was …. Source article  : Strike in Bangladesh over Khaleda Zia’s eviction.

Bulgarian PM gifts puppy to Putin

Moscow, Nov 14 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin was gifted a puppy by his Bulgarian counterpart, Boyko Borisov.

The Bulgarian Karakachan puppy was given to Putin after the two countries signed a gas deal in Sofia.
The Russian premier accepted his “new family member”, hugging it close to his chest and kissing it …. Source  : Bulgarian PM gifts puppy to Putin.

Berlusconi to seek confidence vote

ROME – Embattled Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has said he would seek a confidence vote in parliament, a day after the opposition said it would try to topple him.

Berlusconi Saturday wrote to the heads of the two chambers of parliament asking for the vote to take place following approval of the budget and …. Read the original article  : Berlusconi to seek confidence vote.

US asks Israel for 90-day freeze on settlement construction

TEL AVIV – The US has urged Israel to freeze new settlement construction for 90 days with the incentive of US backing in the UN and a supply of advanced fighter planes, the Jerusalem Post reported Sunday.

The proposal is aimed at restarting peace talks between the Israelis and Palestinians, which have hit an impasse, …. Read the original article  : here.

French prime minister resigns ahead of reshuffle

PARIS – The French government stepped down Saturday, paving the way for a long-awaited cabinet reshuffle by President Nicolas Sarkozy.

The president accepted the government’s resignation, effectively ending Prime Minister Francois Fillon’s term of office, a statement released on behalf of the premier said.
Analysts said a new head of government would be named Sunday …. Source article  : French prime minister resigns ahead of reshuffle.

Both Congress, BJP angled for BSP’s support in 2004: Mayawati

LUCKNOW – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati Saturday said both the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) tried to make her align with them in 2004 but she had refused them in the “larger interest” of the her party.

“It was in the larger interest of our party … Read more : Both Congress, BJP angled for BSP’s support in 2004: Mayawati.

Prominent Tripura tribal leader dead

AGARTALA – Renowned tribal leader and former Tripura minister Rabindra Debbarma died here Saturday. He was 54.

Debbarma, the founder general secretary of the Indigenous Nationalist Party of Tripura (INPT), was elected to the state assembly four times since 1983.
The former education, power and cooperative minister (1988 to 1993) in Tripura is survived by …. Read the original article  : Prominent Tripura tribal leader dead.

Clamour rises for Raja’s resignation, Congress defends him (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – Despite opposition parties mounting pressure on the government to act against Telecom Minister A. Raja over his alleged role in the allotment of 2G spectrum in 2008, the Congress Saturday defended him by saying he could not be removed over speculation linked to a Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report which is …. Source article  : Clamour rises for Raja’s resignation, Congress defends him (Roundup).

Berlusconi foes to pull out of government

Rome, Nov 13 (IANS/AKI) Silvio Berlusconi’s right-wing rival Gianfranco Fini Monday will pull four ministers of his party from the government, putting the prime minister’s embattled rule on the brink of collapse, according to a Fini loyalist.

Italo Bocchino told Italian state television RAI that Berlusconi will find resignation letters from all Fini’s loyalists on … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Berlusconi foes to pull out of government.

India hails Suu Kyi’s release, hopes for political change

NEW DELHI – India Saturday welcomed the release of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi and hoped that this step will be the beginning of an inclusive reconciliation in Myanmar.

“I understand that the Government of Myanmar has just released Madame Aung San Suu Kyi. The government of India welcomes her release,” External Affairs Minister …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Myanmar junta releases Aung San Suu Kyi (Night Lead)

YANGON – Myanmar’s junta Saturday released opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi from house arrest, almost a week after staging a general election widely criticised by the international community for being neither free, fair, nor inclusive.

Suu Kyi appeared briefly outside her house looking happy and relaxed, prompting her elated supporters to break out in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Myanmar junta releases Aung San Suu Kyi (Night Lead).

Government says no to JPC probe into 2G spectrum allocation (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – The government Monday categorically ruled out any parliamentary probe into the controversial 2G spectrum allocation of 2008 despite the opposition’s demand that stalled parliament again.

In separate interactions with the media, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee and Home Minister P. Chidambaram rejected the demand for a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) inquiry.
The … Original article on : Government says no to JPC probe into 2G spectrum allocation (Second Lead).

China, Russia back UN reforms; laud India’s global role

NEW DELHI – Backing reforms of the UN, China and Russia Monday lauded the role of India in international affairs and said they looked forward to deepening cooperation with New Delhi in the UN Security Council.

“The ministers reiterated the need for a comprehensive reform of the UN to make it more democratic, representative and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : China, Russia back UN reforms; laud India’s global role.

Uncertainty over 17th round of PM poll in Nepal

KATHMANDU – Amid growing speculation that the 17th round of the controversial election in Nepal to pick a new prime minister would be deferred Monday, the countrys top three parties began last-ditch talks to find a way out.

At a plush resort in Gokarna in Kathmandu, famed for its golf course, the ruling communists, their …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Uncertainty over 17th round of PM poll in Nepal.

BJP demands JPC probe, Chidambaram says no

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Monday rejected as meaningless the oppositions demand for a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into corruption cases, including charges against DMK A. Raja who quit as communications and IT minister.

This demand for JPC is completely meaningless, Chidambaram told reporters outside parliament.
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Digvijay Singh demands probe into Gadkari’s assets

LUCKNOW – Senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh Monday ordered a probe into Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Nitin Gadkari’s assets and wondered how a man who drove a moped now had property worth thousands of crores of rupees.

He (Gadkari) today possesses property worth thousands of crores of rupees How does he own such property? … Original article on : Digvijay Singh demands probe into Gadkari’s assets.

Sonia, Rahul to campaign for last round of Bihar polls

PATNA – Congress president Sonia Gandhi and her son, party general secretary Rahul Gandhi, will campaign in Bihar this week for the last round of the six phase assembly polls, party leaders said Monday.

Sonia Gandhi will campaign Wednesday ahead of the last phase Nov 20 for 26 seats. She will address rallies in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sonia, Rahul to campaign for last round of Bihar polls.

Relations with India strategically important: Chinese minister

BEIJING – China attaches great importance to the strategic cooperative partnership with India and the two countries were keen on promoting bilateral ties in the areas of politics, economics, trade, and culture, Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi has said.

Yang said this during a discussion Sunday with India’s External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna at the …. Original source  : Relations with India strategically important: Chinese minister.

After Suu Kyi, Dalai Lama hopes for Chinese dissident’s freedom

DHARAMSALA – Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama Monday welcomed the release of Myanmarese pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi and hoped China too would free fellow Nobel laureate Liu Xiaobo and “other prisoners of conscience”.

Suu Kyi, 65, was released Saturday evening after completing over seven years of house arrest. She has spent 15 …. Source  : After Suu Kyi, Dalai Lama hopes for Chinese dissident’s freedom.

DMK wants a cabinet post – in lieu of Raja

CHENNAI – A day after its A. Raja quit the cabinet over corruption charges, Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK insisted one of its other MPs should be inducted into Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s government.

A senior DMK leader told IANS that the DMK-Congress arrangement was that it would get seven ministerial positions in the government – … Read this article on Gaea Times at : DMK wants a cabinet post — in lieu of Raja.

“Sarah Palin’s Alaska” Premieres

ALASKA (GaeaTimes.com)- Last night “Sarah Palin’s Alaska” premiered on TLC and the audience saw a different homely Sarah Palin on the show. The show is produced by Mark Burnett Productions for Discovery Communications and the theme song of the show was ‘Follow Me There’ by Third Play. The audience saw a non-political Sarah Palin … Read : “Sarah Palin’s Alaska” Premieres.

Raja out, but parliament standoff on 2G continues

NEW DELHI – The standoff between opposition and treasury benches continued in parliament Monday amid demands for a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into alleged corruption in the 2G spectrum scam that forced DMK leader A. Raja to quit as communications and IT minister.

Both houses of parliament were adjourned till Tuesday after MPs reassembled … Read more >>.

I am unlikely to be new IT minister: Kanimozhi

NEW DELHI – DMK chief M. Karunanidhi’s daughter and MP Kanimozhi Monday said she was “unlikely” to take over as communications and IT minister after her party colleague A. Raja resigned over his alleged connection to the 2G spectrum licensing scam.

Unlikely, Kanimozhi said when asked if she was the communications and IT minister in … Original article on : I am unlikely to be new IT minister: Kanimozhi.

Freed Suu Kyi goes back to work

YANGON – Myanmar democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi went back to work Monday at her National League for Democracy (NLD) party after being freed over the weekend from seven years under house arrest.

On Sunday, thousands of supporters massed outside the NLD headquarters in Yangon to hear Suu Kyi’s first public speech since … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Freed Suu Kyi goes back to work.

Jayalalithaa demands detailed probe into 2G spectrum scam

CHENNAI – AIADMK general secretary J. Jayalalithaa Monday said A. Raja’s resignation as union telecom minister in connection with the 2G spectrum scam would be just “symbolic tokenism” if it was not followed up with a detailed probe.

She also termed as disturbing and a cause of concern that the official version of the resignation …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Jayalalithaa demands detailed probe into 2G spectrum scam.

Manmohan Singh to address Parliament on 2G spectrum issue

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh is expected to make a statement in Parliament on Monday on the alleged 2G spectrum scam.

He is likely to refer to A Raja’s decision to resign from the post of telecom minister in the statement.

Raja, under sustained pressure from the Opposition, finally submitted his resignation to Dr. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Manmohan Singh to address Parliament on 2G spectrum issue.

‘Socialist win shows Greece backs austerity plans’

ATHENS – Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou said the strong support that voters gave his party in local elections Sunday is a clear indication of public backing for a wave of austerity measures to pull Greece out of massive debt.

Nearly a year after Prime Minister George Papandreou’s Socialists won a landslide victory in national … Read more >>>.

US freeze proposal not yet final, says Netanyahu

JERUSALEM – Israel’s cabinet bowed Sunday to weeks of US pressure to debate a proposal to freeze construction on West Bank settlements, in order to force peace talks with the Palestinians out of limbo.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the ministers at the start of the meeting in Jerusalem that the plan was not … Original article on : US freeze proposal not yet final, says Netanyahu.

Raja’s stint as telecom minister mired in controversy (Profile)

CHENNAI – A. Raja, who quit the union cabinet late Sunday as the communications and IT minister over the 2G scam allocation row, entered the Lok Sabha in 2009 for the fourth time in succession since 1996.

A triple degree holder (B.Sc, BL and ML), this time around, shifted to the cool climes of the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Raja’s stint as telecom minister mired in controversy (Profile).

Iraq’s parliament speaker meets US, Iranian officials

BAGHDAD – Iraq parliament speaker Osama al-Nujaifi held separate meetings Sunday with the ambassadors of the US and Iran, warning the latter not to interfere in domestic affairs.

Al-Nujaifi, who is a member of the Iraqiya List, said he told Iranian Ambassador Hassan Danaii that improving ties should take place “on the basis of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Iraq’s parliament speaker meets US, Iranian officials.

My conscience is clear: Raja

NEW DELHI – Telecom Minister A. Raja, facing allegations of lapses in 2G spectrum allocation, Sunday resigned from the union cabinet but maintained “my conscience is very clear”.

“My leader (DMK supremo and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi) advised me to tender my resignation to the prime minister,” he told reporters minutes after emerging [..] Read the original article: here.

‘Refudiate’ Named Word Of The Year

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- The word ‘refudiate’ first seized the limelight earlier this year when it was used by Republican leader Sarah Palin during a Fox television appearance in which she famously asked President Barack Obama to ‘refudiate’ the charges that he had made about the Tea Party movement by calling them racist. The term … Read more »»».

Fidel Castro Criticizes President Barack Obama

HAVANA, CUBA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Cuban firebrand leader Fidel Castro despite his age does not stop venting out his feelings on global political developments. Owing to his health ailments he may not be at the center stage of politics anymore but his rhetorical flair remains as it was. In a recently published essay he … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Fidel Castro Criticizes President Barack Obama.

CPI-M sponsors dalit protest in Shimla

SHIMLA – Communist Party of India Marxist on Monday held a protest rally over discrimination being meted out to the dalit community in the state.

Demonstrators carried placards and banners and shouted slogans for equal rights and immediate government intervention in such cases.

Addressing the gathering Rakesh Singha, general secretary CPI(M) said that because of religious sanction, … Original source on Gaea Times at : CPI-M sponsors dalit protest in Shimla.

Democracy would eventually come to Myanmar: Suu Kyi

LONDON – Myanmar’s pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi — freed Nov 13 by the military junta after over seven years in house arrest — is sure democracy would come to the country eventually, although she does not know how long it would take, the BBC reported Tuesday.

Suu Kyi, 65, told BBC’s John Simpson … Read more : Democracy would eventually come to Myanmar: Suu Kyi.

Nitish Kumar seeks votes for jailed JD-U candidate

PATNA – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar never tires of speaking out against lawlessness. But having campaigned for some candidates with criminal record, he is now seeking votes for a jailed legislator from his party.

Ran Vijay Singh, from the ruling Janata Dal-United (JD-U) nominee from Goh constituency, is in the Daudnagar jail over a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nitish Kumar seeks votes for jailed JD-U candidate.

Lok Sabha adjourned for day, Rajya Sabha till 2 p.m.

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha was again adjourned for the day Tuesday and the Rajya Sabha till 2 p.m. as opposition MPs continued to demand a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum allocation scam.

Shouting slogans of “We want justice”, opposition MPs in both houses sought a JPC probe into corruption …. Source article  : Lok Sabha adjourned for day, Rajya Sabha till 2 p.m..

UK Muslim mob threatens to fly black flag of Islam over Downing Street, White House for jailed cleric’s release

LONDON – Hate-filled Muslim extremists have vowed to fly the black flag of Islam above Downing Street, the official residence of the British Prime Minister, and the White House, the official residence of the US President, in protest over the imprisonment of cleric Omar Bakri Mohammed in Lebanon.

Omar Bakri Mohammed is currently serving a …. Read the original article  : UK Muslim mob threatens to fly black flag of Islam over Downing Street, White House for jailed cleric’s release.

UNSC reform a long and complicated process: US

WASHINGTON – The US has sought to temper India’s hopes of gaining a place on the international high table saying that while Washington is committed to it, UN reform is going to be a long and complicated process.

The only “real change” in US stand was President Barack Obama’s endorsement of India’s bid for permanent …. Source  : UNSC reform a long and complicated process: US.

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE:

Sue Kathrine Brown, of Texas, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambassador Extraordinary … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate.

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to key Administration posts:

Daniel L. Shields III, Ambassador to Brunei …. Read the original article  : President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts.

Message from the President to the Senate on the Bilateral Tax Agreement with Luxembourg

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

TO THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES:

I transmit herewith, for the advice and consent of the Senate to its ratification, the Protocol Amending the …. Read the original article  : Message from the President to the Senate on the Bilateral Tax Agreement with Luxembourg.

Message from the President to the Senate on the Bilateral Tax Agreement with Hungary

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

TO THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES:

I transmit herewith, for the advice and consent of the Senate to its ratification, the Convention between the …. Source article  : Message from the President to the Senate on the Bilateral Tax Agreement with Hungary.

Statement of the President on Earmark Reform

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

I welcome Senator McConnell’s decision to join me and members of both parties who support cracking down on wasteful earmark spending, which we can’t …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Statement by the Press Secretary on Voter Registration in Sudan

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

"The President is extremely pleased that voter registration has begun in Southern Sudan in preparation for the January 9th, 2011 referendum on self-determination. Voter … Original source on Gaea Times at : Statement by the Press Secretary on Voter Registration in Sudan.

Presidential Proclamation???National Entrepreneurship Week

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

——-
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION

Entrepreneurs embody the promise that lies at the heart of America — that if you … Read : Presidential Proclamation–National Entrepreneurship Week.

Clinton defends operations in Afghanistan

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton defended Monday the use of precision operations against insurgent leaders in Afghanistan, calling it a “key component” of the strategy.

“We believe that the use of intelligence driven, precision targeted operations against high-value insurgents and their networks is a key component” of the strategy, Clinton said.
… Read more »».

Statement by the President on Hajj and Eid-ul-Adha

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Michelle and I extend our greetings for a happy Eid-ul-Adha to Muslims worldwide and wish safe travels to those performing Hajj.  This year, nearly …. Read the original article  : here.

Krishna rubbishes Yeddyruappa’s claims on land deals

BANGALORE – External Affairs Minister S. M. Krishna late Monday denied

he had denotified lands acquired by the Karnataka government to favour some people when
he was chief minister of the sate during 1999-2004.
He was reacting to Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa’s statement earlier Monday that not only he but several of his predecessors …. Original article  : Krishna rubbishes Yeddyruappa’s claims on land deals.

President Obama Announces 2010 White House Tribal Nations Conference

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON – On Thursday, December 16, 2010, President Obama will host the White House Tribal Nations Conference. As part of President Obama’s ongoing outreach … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : President Obama Announces 2010 White House Tribal Nations Conference.

US Congress back for ‘lame duck’ session

WASHINGTON – US lawmakers were returning to work Monday with a laundry list of key domestic spending bills needed to keep the government running and avoid a major tax hike for households by year’s end.

The so-called “lame-duck” session will convene until the end of this year and marks the last chance for President Barack …. Read the original article  : US Congress back for ‘lame duck’ session.

PM should reply to Supreme Court’s remarks, says Advani

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh should reply to the Supreme Court’s observation on his “silence” on a plea seeking action against A. Raja, who quit as communications and IT minister earlier this week, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader L.K. Advani said Wednesday.

Stepping up the attack on the government on the 2G … Read more »»».

Raja ignored Prime Minister’s advice, says CAG

NEW DELHI – The Comptroller and Auditor General report has said that the then Telecom Minister A Raja had ignored the advice of the Prime Minister besides those of ministries of Law and Finance in the 2G spectrum allocation and caused a huge revenue loss to the Government.

The Deputy CAG Rekha Gupta said that … Original article on : Raja ignored Prime Minister’s advice, says CAG.

Manmohan Singh on role of Comptroller and Auditor General organization

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has said to ensure transparency in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) be permitted to look into the books of these infrastructure schemes.

Addressing the gathering at the inaugural function of the celebrations of 150th anniversary of the institution of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Manmohan Singh on role of Comptroller and Auditor General organization.

Why is DMK opposing JPC on 2G spectrum, asks Jayalalithaa

CHENNAI – Opposing a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum scandal shows that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK supremo M. Karunanidhi lacks confidence in alliance partner Congress, AIADMK chief J. Jayalalithaa said Wednesday.

“As far as we are concerned a JPC comprising of senior members of parliament from various political parties …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Why is DMK opposing JPC on 2G spectrum, asks Jayalalithaa.

Prince William And Kate Middleton Engaged

WALES (GaeaTimes.com)- Congratulatory messages have been pouring in to the royal family of England after it was announced yesterday that Prince Williams of Wales is engaged to his longtime girlfriend Kate Middleton (Catherine Middleton). The statement read that Prince of Wales is “delighted” to announce the engagement news. Queen Elizabeth II, Prince William’s grandmother … Original article on : Prince William And Kate Middleton Engaged.

UNSC seat for India not linked with NPT: US

WASHINGTON – The United States says it does not see its support for India becoming a permanent member of the UN Security Council at odds with New Delhi’s refusal to sign two nuclear treaties.

“Well, we don’t see those as being at odds,” State Department spokesman Philip J. Crowley told reporters Tuesday when asked to … Read more : UNSC seat for India not linked with NPT: US.

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 11/16/10

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to appoint the following individuals to key Administration posts:
 

Mark C. Alexander, Member, J. William Fulbright …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Statement by the Press Secretary, 11/16/10

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

At the request of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Minority Leader John Boehner due to scheduling conflicts in organizing their caucuses, the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Statement by the Press Secretary, 11/16/10.

Press Briefing by Senior Administration Officials on the Upcoming NATO and EU Summits in Lisbon, Portugal

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Location: 

Via Conference Call … Read : Press Briefing by Senior Administration Officials on the Upcoming NATO and EU Summits in Lisbon, Portugal.

Readout of the President’s Meeting with Representatives of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Today

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

In an Oval Office meeting today, the President and leaders of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) – U.S. Senator Robert Menendez of New Jersey, …. Read the original article  : Readout of the President’s Meeting with Representatives of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Today.

Statement from the Vice President on the New START Treaty

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Failure to pass the New START Treaty this year would endanger our national security. Without ratification of this Treaty, we will have no Americans …. Read the original article  : Statement from the Vice President on the New START Treaty.

Remarks by the President in Awarding the Medal of Honor to Staff Sergeant Salvatore A. Giunta

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Location: 

East Room … Original article on : Remarks by the President in Awarding the Medal of Honor to Staff Sergeant Salvatore A. Giunta.

Presidential Proclamation???American Education Week

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

      Education is essential to our success as both a people and a Nation.  During American Education Week, we rededicate ourselves to providing a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

First Lady’s Chief of Staff Susan Sher to return to Chicago after Two Years of Service

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

The Office of the First Lady announced today that Susan Sher, Chief of Staff to Mrs. Obama, will be returning to Chicago after the …. Read the original article  : here.

World has accepted Kashmir as bilateral dispute: India

NEW DELHI – India Tuesday said the international community has widely accepted that Kashmir is a “bilateral issue” between it and Pakistan.

“We have and are prepared to have consultations and discussions on all bilateral issues with Pakistan. This position of India is widely accepted and appreciated by members of the international community,” external affairs … Read more »»».

Guilty officials to face action in housing scam: Ajit Pawar

MUMBAI – Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar Tuesday said action would be initiated against retired or serving bureaucrats if they are indicted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the Adarsh housing society scam.

“The CBI has also begun a serious probe into the matter, and it will expose the roles played by …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Guilty officials to face action in housing scam: Ajit Pawar.

BJP, CPI-M seek reply from PM on apex court’s observation

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Tuesday sought an answer from Prime Minister Manmohan Singh over the Supreme Court’s observation on his “silence” on a plea seeking action against the then communications minister A. Raja over the 2G spectrum scam.

“The prime minister is dutybound … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : BJP, CPI-M seek reply from PM on apex court’s observation.

Don’t shy away from house probe, Jayalalithaa tells UPA

CHENNAI – Pressing for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum scam, AIADMK general secretary J. Jayalalithaa Tuesday wondered why was the United Progressive Alliance (UPA), including the DMK, shying from such an inquiry.

In a statement issued here, Jayalalithaa said: “If all the alliance partners of the UPA, barring the DMK … Original article on : Don’t shy away from house probe, Jayalalithaa tells UPA.

Spectrum row continues as apex court frowns on PM’s silence (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – The political crisis over the 2G spectrum allotment scam deepened Tuesday with parliament adjourned for the fourth successive day following opposition protests, and the Supreme Court taking an exception to the 15-month inaction” and silence of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh over a letter regarding the charges against then telecom minister A. Raja.

…. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Railways not responsible for elephant deaths: Mamata

KOLKATA – Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee Tuesday said her department was not responsible for the increasing incidents of elephant deaths after being hit by trains in north Bengal.

“It’s unfortunate that elephants have got killed. But the railways is not responsible. We had no prior information from the West Bengal Forest … Original source on Gaea Times at : Railways not responsible for elephant deaths: Mamata.

Yeddyurappa may get kin to surrender lands to retain chair

BANGALORE – Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, facing charges of land allotments to his family members, Thursday asserted he will complete his term amid mounting speculation that he may get the lands surrendered to retain the chair.

The speculation followed reports that senior Bharatiya Janata Party leaders met in Delhi to discuss the fallout of [..] Read the original article: here.

Prince William, Kate Middleton’s Interview

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM (GaeaTimes.com)- Following the announcement of their much-anticipated wedding, Prince William and his lady love Kate Middleton appeared in their first television interview on Tuesday night. The joint interview witnessed the soon-to-be married royal couple talking candidly about their relationship and how the second in line to the British throne popped the …. Read the original article  : Prince William, Kate Middleton’s Interview.

Khaleda threatens agitation against Hasina government

DHAKA – Bangladesh’s opposition leader Khaleda Zia has said she would resume agitation against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government to protect the interest of the country.

“Certainly after Eid, we must launch movement to protect the interest of the people and the country…Now there is no other alternative but movement,” she was quoted as saying …. Original source  : Khaleda threatens agitation against Hasina government.

Congress MPs demonstrate, demand Yeddyurappa’s resignation

NEW DELHI – Congress MPs from Karnataka Thursday staged a demonstration in the Parliament House complex against Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, demanding his resignation for alleged involvement in land scams in the state.

The Congress MPs sat holding placards and shouting slogans against Yeddyurappa, who belongs to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and demanded …. Source  : Congress MPs demonstrate, demand Yeddyurappa’s resignation.

Willow Palin Uses Homophobic Slurs

ALASKA (GaeaTimes.com)- Willow Palin, the 16 year old daughter of former Governor of Alaska Sarah Palin has landed herself in trouble after she used homophobic slurs on Facebook. Sarah Palin was unreachable for any comments but Bristol Palin apologized for her sister’s behavior in the same social networking site. It has been reported that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Willow Palin Uses Homophobic Slurs.

Break your silence, opposition tells PM

NEW DELHI – Silence equalled consent, opposition leaders said Tuesday as they demanded a clarification from Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on the 2G spectrum scam and former minister A. Raja.

The opposition mounted pressure with various leaders speaking out on the issue on a day when the Supreme Court asked the government to file an …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Break your silence, opposition tells PM.

Winston Churchill’s last ever cigar to go under the hammer

LONDON – A cigar that once belonged to late British Prime Minister Winston Churchill is to be auctioned off along with the crocodile-skin case it was found in after he died.

Churchill had been given the four-chamber Cartier pouch by his wife Clementine in 1934, and it has the brass initials WSC stamped on it, the …. Original article  : Winston Churchill’s last ever cigar to go under the hammer.

Swearing in of Maharashtra ministers postponed to Friday

MUMBAI – The expansion of Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan’s council of ministers has been postponed from Thursday evening to Friday morning as the Congress is yet to shortlist its names, official sources said.

Chavan who left for New Delhi Wednesday evening is still held up there for finalising his new team. He has held … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Swearing in of Maharashtra ministers postponed to Friday.

Sri Lanka’s president to start second term Friday

COLOMBO – Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa is due to be sworn in for his second term Friday, a day after his 65th birthday.

More than 1,000 local and foreign dignitaries are due to attend the ceremony in Colombo.
The government is to declare open some 54,000 development projects throughout the island during a 10-day …. Source article  : Sri Lanka’s president to start second term Friday.

2G scam: Both houses of parliament adjourned

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was adjourned for the day Thursday and Lok Sabha till noon after the opposition disrupted proceedings and demanded a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum scam and other raging scandals.

While Speaker Meira Kumar adjourned the Lok Sabha just a minute after the house assembled, Deputy …. Source article  : 2G scam: Both houses of parliament adjourned.

Rajya Sabha adjourned for day, Lok Sabha till noon

NEW DELHI – The Rajya Sabha was Thursday adjourned for the day and the Lok Sabha till noon following noisy protests by opposition MPs, who persisted with their demand for a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into the 2G Spectrum scam and other corruption scandals.
… Original source on Gaea Times at : Rajya Sabha adjourned for day, Lok Sabha till noon.

Statement by President Obama on General Motors

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

General Motors’ initial public offering (IPO) marks a major milestone in the turnaround of not just an iconic company but the entire American auto …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Statement by President Obama on General Motors.

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 11/17/10

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE:
 
Charles Edward Andrews, of Alabama, to be United States Marshal for the Southern District of Alabama for the term of …. Source article  : Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 11/17/10.

Remarks by the President in Presenting National Medals of Science and National Medals of Technology and Innovation

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Location: 

East Room … Original article on : Remarks by the President in Presenting National Medals of Science and National Medals of Technology and Innovation.

Presidential Nominations and Withdrawal Sent to the Senate, 11/17/10

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE:
Daniel L. Shields III, of Pennsylvania, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Counselor, to be Ambassador … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Presidential Nominations and Withdrawal Sent to the Senate, 11/17/10.

President Obama Names Seven to Serve as U.S. Marshals, 11/17/10

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON- Today, President Obama nominated Charles Edward Andrews, Darrell James Bell, William Benedict Berger Sr., Russel Edwin Burger, Joseph Campbell Moore, Edwin Donovan Sloane, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : President Obama Names Seven to Serve as U.S. Marshals, 11/17/10.

President Obama Names S. Amanda Marshall to Serve as U.S. Attorney

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON- Today, President Obama nominated Christopher R. Thyer and S. Amanda Marshall to serve as U.S. Attorneys.
“Amanda Marshall has shown an unwavering commitment to …. Read the original article  : here.

President Obama Nominates Six to the United States District Court, 11/17/10

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON- Today, President Obama nominated Judge Cathy Bissoon, Vincent L. Briccetti, Roy B. Dalton, Jr., Sara Lynn Darrow, Judge John A. Kronstadt, and Kevin …. Original source  : President Obama Nominates Six to the United States District Court, 11/17/10.

Readout of President Obama’s Meeting on Afghanistan and Pakistan

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

The President held his routine monthly update meeting on Afghanistan and Pakistan.  He received an update on our progress in disrupting, dismantling, and defeating … Original article on : Readout of President Obama’s Meeting on Afghanistan and Pakistan.

President Obama Announces Another Key Administration Post, 11/17/10

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individual to a key administration post:

Ryan C. Crocker, Member, United States …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : President Obama Announces Another Key Administration Post, 11/17/10.

Tarun Gogoi urges Central Govt. to sign water-sharing treaty with China

GUWAHATI – Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has said that he would request Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to sign a water-sharing treaty with China ahead of the construction of the mega dams on Brahmaputra River.

“We are taking up the issue very seriously. I will …. Source  : Tarun Gogoi urges Central Govt. to sign water-sharing treaty with China.

Ajit Pawar Maharashtra’s new finance minister

MUMBAI – Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar will be the new state finance and energy minister, while R.R. Patil will continue as the home minister, officials said Friday.

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) portfolios were allocated here Friday afternoon, shortly after the swearing-in of the newly expanded state cabinet headed by Chief Minister Prithviraj …. Read the original article  : Ajit Pawar Maharashtra’s new finance minister.

Kashmir to appoint chairman of Accountability Commission

JAMMU – The Jammu and Kashmir government has speeded up the process of appointing the chairman of the Accountability Commission, an anti-graft body in the state.

The post of the chairman has been vacant for over two years, mainly because of the situation in the Kashmir Valley, particularly after the Amarnath land row in 2008. …. Source  : Kashmir to appoint chairman of Accountability Commission.

Iran’s supreme leader backs Kashmir ’struggle’

TEHRAN – Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has appealed to the Muslim elite worldwide to back the “struggle” in Jammu and Kashmir, equating the northern Indian state with the “nations” of Afghanistan, Iraq and Pakistan.

“Today the major duties of the elite of the Islamic Ummah is to provide help to the Palestinian nation …. Read the original article  : here.

Nation pays tribute to Indira on 93rd birth anniversary

NEW DELHI – The nation paid tribute to India’s first woman prime minister Indira Gandhi on her 93rd birth anniversary Friday.

President Pratibha Patil and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh offered floral tributes at Shakti Sthal – Indira Gandhi’s memorial on the banks of river Yamuna.
Vice President Hamid Ansari, United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Nation pays tribute to Indira on 93rd birth anniversary.

Maharashtra Cabinet expanded to 31 ministers

MUMBAI – Maharashtra Cabinet was expanded here today with 29 more faces being sworn in to the two-tier council of ministers, including Congress party strongmen Narayan Rane and Patangrao Kadam.

Cabinet Ministers Shivajirao Moghe, Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Balasaheb Thorat and Harshwardhan Patil (Congress) were sworn in along with Anil Deshmukh, Ramraje Naik Nimbalkar, Babanrao Pachpute …. Original article  : Maharashtra Cabinet expanded to 31 ministers.

Malaysia ready to play role in India-ASEAN partnership: PM Razak

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak has said that his country is ready to facilitate the entry of Indian entrepreneurs into South-East Asia and play its role as India’s gateway into ASEAN.

“I reiterate that Malaysia will do what is necessary for Indian entrepreneurs to increasingly view Malaysia as a strategic commercial destination …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Malaysia ready to play role in India-ASEAN partnership: PM Razak.

Iranian leader asks Muslims to back Kashmir struggle

TEHRAN – Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has appealed to Muslims to back the separatist campaign in Jammu and Kashmir, equating the Indian state with the “nations” of Afghanistan and Iraq.

“Today the major duties of the elite of the Islamic Ummah is to provide help to the Palestinian nation and the besieged people …. Read the original article  : here.

Oz govt. in dock for stonewalling “US requests for additional troops in Afghanistan”

SYDNEY – Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard must respond immediately to the allegations that the country has turned down repeated US requests to send more troops to Afghanistan, as being the premier, it is her duty to be “open and honest with the Australian public,” the Opposition has said.

“I call upon the government to … Read : Oz govt. in dock for stonewalling “US requests for additional troops in Afghanistan”.

Open Magazine Faces NDTV Ire

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The ongoing controversy surrounding India’s premiere journalist Barkha Dutt has taken a new turn as NDTV has strongly criticized the Open Magazine for publishing the story without proper verification. Today, the official website of NDTV has stated in a notice that it strongly objects to the magazine’s interpretation of the conversation … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Open Magazine Faces NDTV Ire.

Parliament adjourned till Monday over 2G

NEW DELHI – Both houses of parliament were adjourned till Monday as they could not function for the sixth day Friday as opposition MPs persisted with their demand for a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) to probe the 2G spectrum allotment scam.

As opposition members continued their protest, both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha … Read more >>>.

Osmania tense, TRS calls for Telangana shutdown

HYDERABAD – Osmania University remained tense Friday following overnight violence and police firing while the Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) called for a Telangana shutdown Saturday to protest “police repression”.

Protesting the arrest of their leaders, students staged a protest at Osmania University police station on the campus Friday. The police arrested the protesters.
The Joint …. Source article  : Osmania tense, TRS calls for Telangana shutdown.

Narayan Rane, two women in expanded Maharashtra cabinet

MUMBAI – The Maharashtra council of ministers was expanded here Friday with 29 more ministers being sworn in, including Congress party strongmen Narayan Rane and Patangrao Kadam, and two women ministers.

Governor K. Sankaranarayanan administered oath of office to the new ministers – 19 from the Congress and 10 from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) … Original source on Gaea Times at : Narayan Rane, two women in expanded Maharashtra cabinet.

Kin have surrendered lands, says Yeddyurappa

HUBLI – Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa Friday announced that his kin had surrendered residential and commercial land that was allegedly allotted to them in violation of laws.

Yeddyurappa told reporters that the land had been surrendered as the opposition was making the “baseless allegation” that he had violated laws to favour his family members … Read more : Kin have surrendered lands, says Yeddyurappa.

Nation pays homage to Indira Gandhi on her 93rd birth anniversary

NEW DELHI – Nation paid homage to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her 93rd birth anniversary today.

A number of functions and welfare programmes are being organised across the country as a mark of respect.

A religious prayer meeting was held this morning at Shakti Sthal, her memorial.

Born in a politically active Nehru family, she was … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nation pays homage to Indira Gandhi on her 93rd birth anniversary.

South Asian-Americans seek ‘Brown Districts’ for polls

NEW YORK – A South Asian group based in Queens, home to 62 percent people from the region living in New York, is seeking a redrawing of district boundaries to give them fair representation in the 2012 elections.

Current ‘arbitrary’ district boundaries kept some 4,225 South Asian-American voters out of the Nov 2 special election …. Source  : South Asian-Americans seek ‘Brown Districts’ for polls.

Maharashtra cabinet expanded, Narayan Rane included

MUMBAI – The Maharashtra cabinet was expanded here Friday with 29 more faces being sworn in to the two-tier council of ministers, including Congress party strongmen Narayan Rane and Patangrao Kadam.

Governor K. Sankaranarayanan administered the oath of office to the new ministers, including 19 from the Congress and 10 from the Nationalist Congress Party … Original article on : Maharashtra cabinet expanded, Narayan Rane included.

Sri Lanka’s president sworn in for second term

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka’s President Mahinda Rajapaksa was sworn in for a second term Friday morning, officials said.

The ceremony took place at the Presidential Secretariat before Chief Justice Ashoka de Silva.
Rajapaksa opted for early elections in January 2010 – two years before his term was due to end – and received 57.81 percent … Read more : Sri Lanka’s president sworn in for second term.

Presidential Proclamation???National Family Week, 2010

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

NATIONAL FAMILY WEEK, 2010

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

Like generations before them, today's American families rely on their love and …. Original article  : Presidential Proclamation–National Family Week, 2010.

CEA Releases New Quarterly Analysis on Job and Economic Impact of the Recovery Act

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON, DC – The Council of Economic Advisers today released its latest quarterly report on the economic impact of the Recovery Act.  The report …. Source article  : CEA Releases New Quarterly Analysis on Job and Economic Impact of the Recovery Act.

New book reveals how Ministers out for revenge turned against Gordon Brown

LONDON – Britain’s Shadow Deputy Prime Minister Harriet Harman had played a pivotal role in an attempted coup against former Prime Minister Gordon Brown, a new book has revealed.

According to the Daily Mail, the revelations in the book ‘Brown At 10′ by political historians Anthony Seldon and Guy Lodge raise major questions about the loyalty …. Source  : New book reveals how Ministers out for revenge turned against Gordon Brown.

Yeddyurappa explains stand on land scam to BJP leaders

NEW DELHI – The senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders concluded the consultations over the alleged involvement of Karnataka Chief Minister, B. S. Yeddyurappa, in a land scam, on Saturday.

Yeddyurappa arrived in the national capital to clarify his stand over his alleged involvement in the scam. The meeting was presided by the party president Nitin …. Read the original article  : Yeddyurappa explains stand on land scam to BJP leaders.

Manmohan Singh says dialogue with Pak only after ‘terror machine’ is under control

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said on Saturday that India has been making efforts to normalise relations with Pakistan but dialogue cannot take place until the “terror machine” there is brought under control.

Interacting with the mediapersons at the HT Leadership Summit here, Dr. Singh said: “We are willing to discuss all … Read more »».

Bangladesh’s opposition lawmakers may resign from parliament

DHAKA – The lawmakers of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) may resign en masse from parliament to force mid-term polls, media reports said Saturday.

Leader of the opposition and former prime minister Khaleda Zia has vowed to resume agitation against the government of her arch rival Sheikh Hasina. She said the …. Original article  : Bangladesh’s opposition lawmakers may resign from parliament.

Yeddyurappa rules out quitting over land scam charges

HUBLI/NEW DELHI – Within hours of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) deferring a decision on his future, Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, hit by allegations of favouring kin with prime land, asserted Saturday he will not quit.

He also told chief ministerial aspirants of his party and those belonging to other parties to wait for … Original source on Gaea Times at : Yeddyurappa rules out quitting over land scam charges.

Berlusconi angers art restorers by replacing body parts on statues

NEW YORK – After Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi angered art restorers by replacing missing body parts of ancient marble statues in his office, Italy’s culture ministry has come forward to say there is no cause for alarm.

The ministry, which is led by a close ally of Berlusconi, 74, said in a statement that the …. Read the original article  : here.

Manmohan Singh promises action against anybody found guilty in 2G scam

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday promised action against anybody found guilty in the 2G spectrum allocation.

He also said the government was not afraid of discussion on any issue in Parliament and appealed to all political parties to allow it to function.

“There should be no doubt in anybody’s mind that if … Read : Manmohan Singh promises action against anybody found guilty in 2G scam.

Humanity has to fight challenges of terrorism, hunger: PM

NEW DELHI – Urging the people to act as responsible global citizens, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday said that humanity as a whole will have to fight together against the challenges of hunger, poverty, terrorism and disease.

Speaking at the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit here, the prime minister said there was a need … Read more >>.

Nearly 25 percent voting in Bihar polls (Third Lead)

PATNA – Nearly 25 percent of the electorate had cast their votes by noon Saturday as polling proceeded peacefully in the sixth and final phase of the Bihar assembly elections in 26 constituencies, 18 of them in Maoist-prone areas.

Ignoring a boycott call by the Maoists, voters queued up outside polling booths and excercised their …. Original source  : Nearly 25 percent voting in Bihar polls (Third Lead).

Don’t ask on cabinet reshuffle but we need young people: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday said the people will come to know as and when he decides to reshuffle his cabinet, adding that a resurgent and growing India required younger people in power.

“I think, I am not able to tell you what I am going to do in way of cabinet … Read more >>.

Cannot comment on cabinet reshuffle: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday said the average age of people in power should be reduced even as he did not comment on a possible cabinet reshuffle.

“I think I am not able to say what I am going to do in way of a cabinet reshuffle. When that happens all of …. Original article  : Cannot comment on cabinet reshuffle: PM.

Will Kashmir’s National Conference-Congress panel collapse?

JAMMU – The National Conference-Congress coordination committee in Jammu and Kashmir may be on the verge of collapse if its failure to meet since July and the fissures between their leaders, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Saifuddin Soz, are any indication.

The coordination committee, with Soz as its head, was constituted soon after the two … Read more >>.

PM to decide giving minimum wages to NREGA workers: Joshi

NEW DELHI – Rural Development Minister C P Joshi said on Saturday that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is expected to consider payment of minimum wages to National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) workers as recommended by the National Advisory Council headed by Sonia Gandhi.

“It is a recommendation of the NAC. Her (Sonia Gandhi) recommendation …. Read the original article  : PM to decide giving minimum wages to NREGA workers: Joshi.

Pakistan should control terror machine, says PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday said his government was committed to normalisation of India’s relationship with Pakistan but the neighbouring country must control the terror machine.

We are willing to discuss all issues, provided the terror machine is controlled, the prime minister said in response to a question at the Hindustan Times … Read more : Pakistan should control terror machine, says PM.

Turning a blind eye to corruption: A lesson Congress forgot (Comment)

The Congress must have realised by now that it gave too much leeway to Andimuthu Raja, the former telecom minister, who has been christened “spectrum” Raja by the media because of his suspected involvement in a gargantuan Rs.1.7 lakh crore (nearly $40 billion) corruption scandal relating to second-generation (2G) spectrum allocations by his department.

… Original article on : Turning a blind eye to corruption: A lesson Congress forgot (Comment).

Nepal Maoists unleash midnight mayhem over budget

KATHMANDU – Nepals opposition Maoist party has backtracked on its pact with the ruling parties to allow a new budget, unleashing chaos in parliament, attacking the finance minister and derailing the budget as well as the prime ministerial election.

A grim caretaker government called an emergency meeting of the council of ministers early Saturday and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indira Gandhi, Mother Teresa among Time’s 25 most influential women

WASHINGTON – Former Indian prime minister Indira Gandhi and Albanian nun Mother Teresa, who made India her home, are among Time magazine’s “25 Most Powerful Women of the Past Century.”

The US news magazine’s survey of “the women who have most influenced our world” is topped by Jane Addams, an outspoken advocate for women’s suffrage, … Read more »»».

Bihar votes in final phase amid fears of Maoist violence (Second Lead)

PATNA – Ignoring a boycott call by Maoists, voters queued up outside polling booths for the sixth and final phase of the Bihar assembly elections in 26 constituencies Saturday, 18 of them in areas where the rebels hold sway.

Amid tight security and fears of Maoist violence, women and youths in particular turned up … Read more »»».

Voting under way for final phase of Bihar polls

PATNA – The sixth and final phase of the Bihar assembly elections was under way Saturday in 26 constituencies, including 18 Maoist-affected areas, spread across five districts.

People queued up outside polling booths as voting began at 7 a.m. A total of 426 candidates are in the fray for the last phase being held in … Read more : Voting under way for final phase of Bihar polls.

Final phase of Bihar assembly polls begins

PATNA – The sixth and final phase of the Bihar assembly elections began Saturday in 26 constituencies, including 18 Maoist-affected areas, spread across five districts.

A total of 426 candidates are in fray for the last phase which is being held in the drought-hit districts of Gaya, Aurangabad, Rohtas, Kaimur and Buxar. About six million …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US expert shown new North Korean nuclear facility: Report

NEW YORK – North Korea has allowed a visiting US nuclear scientist to see a large new uranium enrichment facility which raises new questions about Pyongyang’s nuclear intentions, the New York Times reported at the weekend.

Stanford professor Siegfried S. Hecker, former director of the Los Alamos National Laboratory, told the paper about his visit … Read more : US expert shown new North Korean nuclear facility: Report.

Lalu confident of forming government in Bihar

PATNA – A day after exit polls predicted a landslide victory for Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s alliance, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Sunday claimed that he will form the next government in the state with a two-thirds majority.

“I am sure and confident that the RJD and LJP (alliance partner Lok Janshakti …. Read the original article  : Lalu confident of forming government in Bihar.

Hasina’s tri-nation tour to focus on tiger, n-plant

DHAKA – Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Sunday began a tri-nation tour to Russia, Belgium and Japan during which she will attend a conference on tigers and discuss investments and setting up a nuclear power plant in the country.

She also hopes to attract investments and assistance for building a bridge over Padma river that …. Source  : Hasina’s tri-nation tour to focus on tiger, n-plant.

Congress protests against TV over anti-Sonia story

HYDERABAD – Activists of the ruling Congress party Sunday staged massive protests against Sakshi television channel, owned by party MP Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy, for airing a story criticising party president Sonia Gandhi.

A large number of activists gathered outside the Sakshi head office in Banjara Hills here demanding an apology from Jaganmohan Reddy, who also …. Read the original article  : Congress protests against TV over anti-Sonia story.

Pakistan’s objection to US backing for UN seat shows trust deficit: Rao

NEW DELHI – India has voiced its disappointment over Pakistan’s critical remarks on the US support for New Delhi’s candidature for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council, saying it was a reflection of trust deficit between the two neighbours.

“Yes, I would say I am disappointed. And I think it is a …. Original source  : Pakistan’s objection to US backing for UN seat shows trust deficit: Rao.

Congress in poor shape in Madhya Pradesh

BHOPAL – As the Madhya Pradesh assembly prepares to meet from Monday, Congress sources admit the party is losing its sting in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled state.

The Congress, of course, is the second largest party in the legislature. However, Congress leaders admit it pains them that the BJP has been ruling …. Read the original article  : here.

Yeddyurappa meets supporters, to meet BJP leadership

BANGALORE/NEW DELHI – Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, hit by allegations of favouring kin with prime land, met his supporters Sunday to discuss ways to impress the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership to allow him to stay on in the post.

The chief minister also dropped plans to take several ministers and legislators to New Delhi … Read : Yeddyurappa meets supporters, to meet BJP leadership.

Congress seeks report on TV programme attacking PM, Sonia

NEW DELHI – The Congress has sought a report from its Andhra Pradesh unit on a programme aired by Sakshi TV channel, owned by party MP Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy, which made critical comments about Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and party president Sonia Gandhi.

The party has asked for a report from the state unit. … Read : Congress seeks report on TV programme attacking PM, Sonia.

Nepal crisis worries Western world

KATHMANDU – With the prime ministerial election in Nepal put off till December and the opposition Maoist party preventing the government from tabling the budget and refusing to disband its parallel guerrilla army, there is mounting concern among Western governments who think Nepal is running out of time.

The heads of missions of Australia, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nepal crisis worries Western world.

Press Conference of the President after NATO Summit

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Location: 

Feria Internacional de Lisboa, …. Read the original article  : Press Conference of the President after NATO Summit.

Russia a partner, not an adversary, says Obama

LISBON – Russia is a partner for NATO, not an adversary, US President Barack Obama said Saturday as a landmark NATO-Russia summit closed in Lisbon.

At the summit, NATO and Russia agreed to launch talks on the possibility of linking their missile defence systems, in what leaders described as a “turning point” in the relationship.
[..] Read the original article: here.

BJP accuses PM of inaction, demands Raja’s arrest

NEW DELHI – Accusing Prime Minister Manmohan Singh of a “conspiracy of silence” and “culpability of inaction” in the 2G spectrum controversy, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Saturday demanded interrogation and arrest of former communications and IT minister A.Raja, who resigned this week under pressure from the opposition.

Talking to media persons here, BJP … Read this article on Gaea Times at : BJP accuses PM of inaction, demands Raja’s arrest.

Rosiah condemns Sakshi story on Sonia Gandhi

HYDERABAD – Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K. Rosaiah and other leaders of ruling Congress party Saturday condemned a story on the party president Sonia Gandhi aired by Sakshi television channel, owned by party MP Y. S. Jaganmohan Reddy.

In a statement Saturday night, Rosaiah said the episode titled “Hastagatham” on the affairs of Congress …. Source article  : Rosiah condemns Sakshi story on Sonia Gandhi.

Trinamool, CPI-M to be kept away from Ray’s condolence meet

KOLKATA – After a tiff between the Congress and its ally Trinamool Congress over the political legacy of former West Bengal chief minister S.S. Ray, the state Congress has decided to keep both Trinamool and the ruling Marxists away from the condolence meet it has organised Sunday.

“We have invited those people who were members …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Trinamool, CPI-M to be kept away from Ray’s condolence meet.

We will not blackmail UPA, says Mamata

KOLKATA – Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee Saturday said her party wanted the truth to come out in the 2G spectrum scam but would not “blackmail” or topple the United Progressive Alliance government on the issue.

“We have no problem with investigation into the matter. Allegations are flying. We want the truth …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Over 50 percent turnout in Bihar poll final phase, two cops killed (Night Lead)

PATNA – More than three million people defied the Maoists’ poll boycott call Saturday to vote in the sixth and final phase of the Bihar assembly elections. Minor incidents of violence, however, marred the otherwise peaceful polling, while two policemen were killed while trying to defuse a makeshift bomb.

The polling in 26 constituencies brings …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Over 50 percent turnout in Bihar poll final phase, two cops killed (Night Lead).

CPI-M asks PM to come out clean on 2G spectrum allocation

NEW DELHI – The Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) on Saturday asking Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh to clarify his stand on the 2G spectrum allocation said he should come out clean over the issue.

CPI-M politburo member Sitaram Yechury after a Central Committee meeting here today … Read more »»».

Why is Trinamool silent on 2G, CWG, asks CPI

KOLKATA – The Communist Party of India (CPI) Saturday questioned Trinamool Congress’ silence on corruption allegations surrounding 2G spectrum allocation and the Commonwealth Games, saying it was a part of a “deal” with the centre.

“A few people are raising questions about the alleged wrongdoings in Rajarhat. But I don’t understand one thing, that why …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Why is Trinamool silent on 2G, CWG, asks CPI.

BJP calls for action, not debate on 2G scam

NEW DELHI – Commenting on Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh’s appeal to Opposition parties to allow Parliament to function, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday said the 2G spectrum has been debated for long and it is time for action now.

“The …. Source article  : BJP calls for action, not debate on 2G scam.

Government has not got back on JPC demand, says BJP

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Saturday said it had not heard from the government on the opposition’s demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum allocation controversy.

Party spokesman Ravi Shankar Prasad said they had not heard from the government after an assurance was given by Finance …. Source article  : Government has not got back on JPC demand, says BJP.

Rosaiah to leave for Delhi amid speculations of change

HYDERABAD – Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister K. Rosaiah will head to Delhi Tuesday amid speculations of a leadership change in the state and possible action against party MP Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy for allegedly targeting party chief Sonia Gandhi through his media outlets.

Rosaiah, who is currently in Puttaparthi town of Anantapur district to attend the …. Source  : Rosaiah to leave for Delhi amid speculations of change.

Pranab’s all-party meeting fails to resolve deadlock

NEW DELHI – Congress leader Pranab Mukherjee’s effort to resolve the deadlock over a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum allotment scam failed Monday with the opposition rejecting the government’s proposal to increase the powers of the public accounts committee (PAC).

“The stalemate continues,” Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) leader Ajit Singh … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pranab’s all-party meeting fails to resolve deadlock.

Yedyurappa Eludes BJP Heads

BANGALORE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- B. S. Yeddyurappa has found himself in the news once again as he is yet to respond to the summons by the BJP top brass who wanted to face him over the recent controversy. The BJP leaders were supposed to confront the Karnataka Chief Minister over the issue of his continuance …. Source article  : Yedyurappa Eludes BJP Heads.

We will be come to power in Bihar: Paswan

NEW DELHI – Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) leader Ram Vilas Paswan Monday expressed confidence that the party’s alliance with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) would win the Bihar elections with a two-third majority.

Our government will be formed on the 24th, with a two-third majority, Paswan told reporters outside parliament.
The LJP … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : We will be come to power in Bihar: Paswan.

Musharraf selects seat in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to contest poll

ISLAMABAD – Former military dictator Pervez Musharraf has selected Chitral in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province to contest for a seat in the National Assembly, the lower house of parliament, a senior leader of his party has said.

Musharraf ruled the country for nine years after taking power in a coup in 1999. He stepped down … Read more »»».

Parliament adjourned for the day, Pranab calls all-party meeting

NEW DELHI – Both houses of parliament were adjourned for the day Monday as opposition MPs persisted with their demand for a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum allotment scam.

After initial adjournment at 11 a.m., the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha met at 12 noon but the opposition members once again … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Parliament adjourned for the day, Pranab calls all-party meeting.

CPI-M to government: If not JPC, suggest alternative

NEW DELHI – Maintaining that only a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) could probe scams like the 2G spectrum allocation scandal, the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Monday asked the government to suggest viable alternatives if it did not want to appoint one.

“If the ruling party does not want a JPC, they must come … Original article on : CPI-M to government: If not JPC, suggest alternative.

UK PM pledges visa abuse crackdown, stem immigration

LONDON – British Prime Minister David Cameron has said that he is committed to more than halving immigration and to slash immigration by cracking down on rampant abuse of the country’s visa system.

According to the Daily Mail, Cameron’s announcement came as official figures showed that thousands of non-EU workers are being allowed in to [..] Read the original article: here.

Minute’s silence in Lok Sabha for building collapse victims

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha Monday observed a minute’s silence condoling the death of 69 people in a building collapse in the capital last week.

As the house convened at 11 a.m., Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar read out a condolence message expressing grief over the death of people when the five-storey building collapsed … Read : Minute’s silence in Lok Sabha for building collapse victims.

Yeddyurappa holds out, defers morning Delhi visit

NEW DELHI/BANGALORE – While his ministers expressed confidence that he would ride out the storm, Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, under pressure to quit over allegations of favoured prime land allotment to his relatives, deferred his visit to New Delhi to Monday evening.

Two ministers, R. Ashoka and V.S. Acharya, who met Bharatiya Janata Party … Original source on Gaea Times at : Yeddyurappa holds out, defers morning Delhi visit.

Yeddyurappa holds out, defers morning Delhi visit

NEW DELHI/BANGALORE – While his ministers expressed confidence that he would ride out the storm, Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, under pressure to quit over allegations of favoured prime land allotment to his relatives, deferred his visit to New Delhi to Monday evening.

Two ministers, R. Ashoka and V.S. Acharya, who met Bharatiya Janata Party … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Yeddyurappa holds out, defers morning Delhi visit.

David Cameron backs ‘Queen Camilla’

LONDON – UK Prime Minister David Cameron has voiced his support for the Duchess of Cornwall to become Queen and admitted being a ‘big fan’ of Camilla.

He said that the public is warming to Prince Charles’s second wife, despite signs that voters would prefer the monarchy to miss a generation and pass directly from the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : David Cameron backs ‘Queen Camilla’.

New Sri Lankan cabinet sworn in

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka’s new cabinet of ministers was sworn in before President Mahinda Rajapaksa Monday in Colombo.

D.M. Jayaratne, who had been the prime minister since April this year, was sworn in as the prime minister again in the new cabinet, reports Xinhua.
The swearing-in of ministers took place after President Rajapaksa was … Original source on Gaea Times at : New Sri Lankan cabinet sworn in.

Parliament adjourned again, Pranab calls all-party meeting

NEW DELHI – Both houses of parliament were adjourned Monday till 12 noon as opposition MPs persisted with their demand for a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum allotment scam.

Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has called an all-party meeting at 1 p.m. in an attempt to break the deadlock. This is the …. Read the original article  : Parliament adjourned again, Pranab calls all-party meeting.

Karnataka CM Yeddyurappa’s fate in Gadkari’s hands, final decision today

NEW DELHI – Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa will meet Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Nitin Gadkari here today to plead against his removal over allegations of land scams.

Gadkari has been authorised by the party’s senior leaders to take the final decision on whether to allow Yeddyurappa to remain in office or ask him …. Source article  : Karnataka CM Yeddyurappa’s fate in Gadkari’s hands, final decision today.

Congress in Kerala may be exulting too soon (Letter from Kerala)

A landslide victory in last month’s local elections has heightened the United Democratic Front’s (UDF) hopes of returning to power in Kerala in next year’s assembly elections but the Congress, which heads the alliance, may be exulting too soon. Its position is not as rosy as it imagines.

The credit for the UDF victory belongs …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Caste-dominated politics still rule in IT land Karnataka (Letter from Bangalore)

BANGALORE – The southern Indian state of Karnataka is a land of contradictions – a leader in education, banking, science and technology but backward-looking in politics dominated by caste equations.

In the last 10 years, its capital, Bangalore has raced to become a brand known across the world for new economy led by information technology, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Caste-dominated politics still rule in IT land Karnataka (Letter from Bangalore).

Myanmar junta’s proxy wins 77 percent of contested seats

YANGON – The proxy party of Myanmar’s ruling junta won 76.8 percent of the 1,096 contested seats in the general election held earlier this month, compiled media reports said Monday.

The Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), the political arm of the regime, won 842 seats in the lower, upper and state/regional chambers of parliament … Read more : Myanmar junta’s proxy wins 77 percent of contested seats.

Jindal, Hillary discount White House runs

WASHINGTON – Louisiana’s Indian American Governor Bobby Jindal, a Republican, and US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, a Democrat, have discounted unending speculation that they may run for the White House in 2012.

Jindal is adamant about running for re-election in Louisiana and Clinton says she loves her job as America’s top diplomat.
“I’m running …. Source article  : Jindal, Hillary discount White House runs.

2G scam: Congress core group mulls ways to break impasse

NEW DELHI – The Congress core committee met here Sunday evening to discuss the stalemate in parliament over vociferous demands from the opposition for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum allocation scam.

The meeting at Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s official 7 Race Course Road residence, was attended by Congress president Sonia …. Read the original article  : 2G scam: Congress core group mulls ways to break impasse.

Background on the President’s Trip to Kokomo, Indiana Tomorrow

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

On Tuesday, November 23, 2010, President Obama and Vice President Biden will take their White House to Main Street Tour to Kokomo, Indiana, a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Background on the President’s Trip to Kokomo, Indiana Tomorrow.

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 11/22/2010

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Location: 

James S. Brady Press … Original article on : Press Briefing by Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 11/22/2010.

Remarks by the First Lady at “Let’s Move” Salad Bars to Schools Event

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

2:52 P.M. EST
MRS. OBAMA:  Hello!  How are you guys doing?
STUDENTS:  Good!
MRS. OBAMA:  Pretty exciting, isn’t it?
STUDENTS:  Yes!
MRS. OBAMA:  I am thrilled.  I want to … Read : Remarks by the First Lady at “Let’s Move” Salad Bars to Schools Event.

Statement by the President for Lebanon’s Independence Day on November 22nd

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

On behalf of the American people, I offer my deepest congratulations to President Sleiman, Speaker Berri, Prime Minister Hariri, and all citizens of Lebanon …. Original article  : Statement by the President for Lebanon’s Independence Day on November 22nd.

CAG report on 2G with parliamentary panel

NEW DELHI – The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on the 2G spectrum controversy was distributed among members of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of parliament Monday.

The PAC, headed by senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Murli Manohar Joshi, discussed the report.
The opposition is demanding setting up of a Joint Parliamentary Committee … Original source on Gaea Times at : CAG report on 2G with parliamentary panel.

Not told to resign, says Yeddyurappa, to meet Gadkari Tuesday (Night Lead)

NEW DELHI/BANGALORE – Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, who flew in to the capital Monday evening amid speculation that he would be asked to quit over allegations of favouring his kin with prime land, asserted that no one had asked him to quit. He met senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arun Jaitley.

Yeddyurappa, who …. Original article  : Not told to resign, says Yeddyurappa, to meet Gadkari Tuesday (Night Lead).

Pranab meets PM to discuss ways to end parliament impasse

NEW DELHI – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday evening to brief him about the stalemate at the all-party meeting with the opposition persisting with its demand of a parliamentary probe into the 2G spectrum controversy.

Sources said Mukherjee apprised the prime minister of the opposition not agreeing to the …. Source article  : Pranab meets PM to discuss ways to end parliament impasse.

Kristina Schake to Join First Lady’s Office as Communications Director

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

The Office of the First Lady announced today that Kristina Schake will be joining the staff as Special Assistant to the President and Communications …. Source article  : Kristina Schake to Join First Lady’s Office as Communications Director.

TV show critical of Sonia Gandhi very serious issue: Moily

NEW DELHI – The Congress Monday termed as a “very serious issue” a TV programme criticising party president Sonia Gandhi and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh aired on a channel owned by Kadapa MP Jaganmohan Reddy.

Law Minister M. Veerappa Moily, who is Congress incharge of Andhra Pradesh, said the party had received the report … Read more »».

OP-ED by Vice President Joe Biden in the New York Times: “What we must do for Iraq now”

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Eight days ago, Iraqi political leaders agreed on a framework for a new government to guide their country through the crucial coming years. Since …. Source  : OP-ED by Vice President Joe Biden in the New York Times: “What we must do for Iraq now”.

Ahmadinejad to auction his car for charity

TEHRAN – Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad plans to auction off his car for charity, the news network Khabar reported Monday.

The minister for social welfare, Sadeq Mahsouli, said the president’s gesture was aimed at aiding a charity plan providing accommodation for low-income families.
The president’s car, an old Peugeot, has been put up for international …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ahmadinejad to auction his car for charity.

26/11 perpetrators should be brought to justice: British minister

NEW DELHI – Britain’s Defence Secretary Liam Fox Monday reiterated that the perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attacks “should be brought to justice” and that a stable Pakistan is in the interests of the international community.

The UK government has repeatedly emphasized that the perpetrators of the Mumbai attack should be brought to justice. Our … Original source on Gaea Times at : 26/11 perpetrators should be brought to justice: British minister.

EU-U.S. Summit Joint Statement

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

We, the leaders of the European Union and the United States, met today in Lisbon to re-affirm our close partnership. Our shared values and …. Source  : EU-U.S. Summit Joint Statement.

Declaration by the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan on an Enduring Partnership

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

www.nato.int/cps/en/natolive/official_texts_68724.htm
Context
1. Recognising that stability and prosperity in Afghanistan are of strategic importance to the security of the North Atlantic region, the North Atlantic Treaty …. Read the original article  : Declaration by the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan on an Enduring Partnership.

NATO-Russia Council Joint Statement

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

We, the Heads of State and Government of the NATO-Russia Council, met today in Lisbon and affirmed that we have embarked on a new … Original article on : NATO-Russia Council Joint Statement.

Statement by the President on the Passing of Dr. Margaret Burroughs

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Michelle and I are saddened by the passing of Dr. Margaret Burroughs, who was widely admired  for her contributions to American culture as an … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Statement by the President on the Passing of Dr. Margaret Burroughs.

OP-ED by Vice President Jow Biden in the New York Times: “What we must do for Iraq now”

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Eight days ago, Iraqi political leaders agreed on a framework for a new government to guide their country through the crucial coming years. Since …. Read the original article  : here.

Declaration by the Heads of State and Government of the Nations contributing to the UN-mandated, NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

www.nato.int/cps/en/natolive/news_68722.htm
Introduction
1. We, the nations contributing to ISAF, reaffirm our enduring commitment to Afghanistan’s security and stability, which are directly linked with our own security. … Read : Declaration by the Heads of State and Government of the Nations contributing to the UN-mandated, NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan.

All-party meet fails to break logjam, opposition firm on JPC (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Congress’ main trouble-shooter Pranab Mukherjee’s efforts to resolve the deadlock in parliament over the 2G spectrum scandal failed Monday with the opposition sticking to its demand for a joint parliamentary committee (JPC) probe.

At an all-party meeting, the second in a week, Mukherjee proposed a multi-agency investigating agency to help the …. Source  : All-party meet fails to break logjam, opposition firm on JPC (Second Lead).

Statement by the President at end of the EU-U.S. Summit

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Location: 

Portuguese Pavilion, Lisbon, Portugal … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Statement by the President at end of the EU-U.S. Summit.

Prince William and Kate Middleton to marry next April

LONDON – Britain’s Prince William and his fiancee Kate Middleton are to be married April 29 at Westminster Abbey in London, St James’ Palace announced Tuesday.

The wedding day, a Friday, will be a public holiday, a statement from Downing Street said. Prince William and Middleton, both aged 28, announced their engagement last week.
The …. Source  : Prince William and Kate Middleton to marry next April.

‘NDA will win in Bihar, Congress won’t touch double-digits’

LUCKNOW – The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) would return to power in Bihar, and the Congress’ strength would not reach “double digits” despite the “hard work” of Congress chief Sonia Gandhi and her son Rahul Gandhi, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Shahnawaz Hussain said Tuesday.

“It is going to be a clean sweep for us. … Read more »»».

Key Western donors rap Nepal over political stalemate

KATHMANDU – Nepal’s major Western donors Tuesday rapped the country’s political parties for their inability to form a new government, even five months after the prime minister quit under Maoist pressure, saying it has a negative impact on development works, some of which have become the cash-strapped republic’s life blood.

The World Bank, Asian Development … Read more »»».

Lalu’s worries will increase after Bihar poll results: Nitish Kumar

PATNA – With the counting of votes for 243 Bihar Assembly seats scheduled for tomorrow, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday asserted that the poll results would add to Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav’s troubles.

“Lalu has been a poster boy … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lalu’s worries will increase after Bihar poll results: Nitish Kumar.

Surendra Sirsat appointed new Goa NCP chief

PANAJI – Surendra Sirsat has been appointed the president of the Goa unit of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), the party said in a statement Tuesday.

The statement added that the earlier state unit president, Jose Phillip DSouza, has been relieved of his charge by party president Sharad Pawar.
DSouza had earned the … Original article on : Surendra Sirsat appointed new Goa NCP chief.

French tourist town to dedicate 2012 as the Year of India

NEW DELHI – Saint Tropez, a picturesque town in southeast France which attracts about five million tourists annually, is all set to dedicate 2012 as the year of India – all for a love story that binds the two in history.

Claude Maniscalco, director of Saint Tropez Tourism, who addressed the media in the …. Read the original article  : French tourist town to dedicate 2012 as the Year of India.

India, Sri Lanka likely to launch defence dialogue next year

NEW DELHI – India and Sri Lanka are likely to launch a defence dialogue next year in the backdrop of the changed security situation following the decimation of the Tamil Tigers.

“The two sides are looking at starting a defence dialogue next year. It’s in an exploratory stage,” a senior official said.
The … Read more >>.

Yeddyurappa awaits meeting with Gadkari, party decision

NEW DELHI/BANGALORE – Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa, battling allegations of favouring his close relatives with prime land, waited Tuesday to meet Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Nitin Gadkari for a decision on his fate.

On the second day of his stay in the national capital, Yeddyurappa met senior leader M. Venkaiah Naidu …. Read the original article  : Yeddyurappa awaits meeting with Gadkari, party decision.

Orissa assembly adjourned over Vedanta varsity issue

BHUBANESWAR – The Orissa assembly was adjourned several times Tuesday, on the first day of its winter session, and finally for the day as the opposition disrupted proceedings and demanded resignation of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik over Vedanta varsity issue.

As soon as the question hour ended, Leader of Opposition Bhupinder Singh raised the issue … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Orissa assembly adjourned over Vedanta varsity issue.

Statement by the Press Secretary on North Korean Shelling of South Korean island

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Earlier today North Korea conducted an artillery attack against the South Korean island of Yeonpyeong.  We are in close and continuing contact with our … Read : Statement by the Press Secretary on North Korean Shelling of South Korean island.

India a nation of immense power and presence: UAE daily

ABU DHABI – The United Arab Emirates (UAE), home to a large number of Indians, recognises that “India is now a spearhead of the future markets and a nation of immense power and presence”, a leading UAE daily said in an editorial Tuesday.

“India will naturally like to see the UAE as a friend and … Read : India a nation of immense power and presence: UAE daily.

Parliament budget figures for financial year 2010-11 (To go with main parliament protest story)

NEW DELHI – The following are the official figures of the budget outlay of Indian parliament for the current financial year.

The budget (figures available on indiabudget.nic.in) for the current financial year the Lok Sabha has listed:
* Rs.67 lakh for speaker and deputy speaker
* Rs.93 lakh for leader of opposition and his/her secretariat
… Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Parliament budget figures for financial year 2010-11 (To go with main parliament protest story).

Eight days of adjournment cost nation Rs.63 crore

NEW DELHI – The eight successive days of adjournment of parliament without any major business translate into a loss of a staggering Rs.63 crore with the expenditure for each day of a session calculated at Rs.7.8 crore.

The controversial 2G spectrum allocation may have caused colossal losses to the national exchequer, but the continuing … Read : Eight days of adjournment cost nation Rs.63 crore.

Opposition seeks Chouhan’s resignation, assembly adjourned

BHOPAL – The Madhya Pradesh assembly was adjourned Tuesday, as opposition disrupted proceedings to demand the resignation of Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan for corruption.

As the house met on the second day of its winter session, Congress members said many corruption cases against the chief minister were pending with the state Lokayukta (ombudsman).
“Corruption … Original article on : Opposition seeks Chouhan’s resignation, assembly adjourned.

Nearly half of US voters don’t want Obama in 2012

WASHINGTON – Nearly half of the voters in the US say President Barack Obama does not deserve a second term in 2012, revealed a poll result in the Washington Times Tuesday.

The nationwide telephone survey of 2,424 registered voters was conducted by Quinnipiac University, an independent polling institute.
According to the poll, 49 percent of … Original article on : Nearly half of US voters don’t want Obama in 2012.

13 orphans of Delhi house collapse assured special care

NEW DELHI – Paying homage to those who lost their lives in the east Delhi building collapse last week, Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit Tuesday said that the government would take special care of the 13 children orphaned in the accident.

“The government is concerned about the children who were orphaned after the building collapsed in …. Source article  : 13 orphans of Delhi house collapse assured special care.

BJP wants Delhi house panel probe in CWG lapses

NEW DELHI – The Delhi assembly witnessed uproarious scenes Tuesday on the opening day of the winter session with the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demanding a house panel probe into the state government’s alleged lapses in the organisation of the Commonwealth Games (CWG).

Soon after the house paid homage to the victims of the …. Original article  : BJP wants Delhi house panel probe in CWG lapses.

Musharraf asked to answer ‘32 questions’ over Benazir murder case

LAHORE – The investigation into former prime minister Benazir Bhutto’s assassination has been extended to former president Pervez Musharraf, and a questionnaire carrying 32 questions has been sent to him in this regard, a TV channel reported on Monday.

According to … Read more : Musharraf asked to answer ‘32 questions’ over Benazir murder case.

Germany reiterates support for India in UN

NEW DELHI – Ahead of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit next month, Germany Tuesday reiterated its support to India’s bid for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

“We are fully behind the G4 (the alliance among Brazil, Germany, India and Japan). Germany supports India in the UNSC and India also supports …. Read the original article  : here.

Nitish Kumar rejects exit poll results

PATNA – Even as exit polls predict a clean sweep for the Janata Dal(U)-Bharatiya Janata Party combine in Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Tuesday rejected the forecast saying that they may not always be right.

Talking to reporters in Patna a day before the assembly election results are to be declared, Nitish Kumar said the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Nitish Kumar rejects exit poll results.

Tom DeLay Convicted

AUSTIN (GaeaTimes.com)- The former member of U. S. House of Representative Tom DeLay has been convicted Wednesday on charges of illegally laundering corporate money to Texas candidates in 2002. The jury in Texas court deliberated for 19 hours before reaching the verdict which carries seven to 20 years of life in prison for … Original article on : Tom DeLay Convicted.

Kiran Kumar to take over as Andhra chief minister Thursday

HYDERABAD – N. Kiran Kumar Reddy will take over as the 16th chief minister of Andhra Pradesh Thursday afternoon.

Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan will administer oath of office and secrecy to him at 12.14 p.m. at Raj Bhavan.
The governor invited Reddy to form the government after state Congress chief D. Srinivas Thursday morning met him … Read : Kiran Kumar to take over as Andhra chief minister Thursday.

US bracing for another WikiLeaks release

WASHINGTON – The US was preparing for another WikiLeaks release of classified US documents that could harm relations with countries around the world, the State Department said.

US diplomatic outposts were informing their host countries that the release could come within days, State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley told reporters Wednesday. The release is believed to …. Source article  : US bracing for another WikiLeaks release.

Letter from the President on the Strategy to Support the Disarmament of the Lord’s Resistance Army

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

TEXT OF A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
TO THE CHAIRMEN AND RANKING MEMBERS OF
THE HOUSE AND SENATE COMMITTEES ON APPROPRIATIONS,
THE HOUSE COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS, … Read more >>>.

Presidential Memorandum???Review of Human Subjects Protection

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

MEMORANDUM FOR DR. AMY GUTMANN Chair, Presidential Commission for the Study of Bioethical Issues
SUBJECT:    Review of Human Subjects Protection
Recently, we discovered that the U.S. …. Source  : Presidential Memorandum–Review of Human Subjects Protection.

President Obama Signs U.S. Virgin Islands Disaster Declaration

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

The President today declared a major disaster exists in the Territory of the U.S. Virgin Islands and ordered Federal aid to supplement Territory recovery …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : President Obama Signs U.S. Virgin Islands Disaster Declaration.

Merkel urges Russia, China to restrain North Korea

BERLIN – German Chancellor Angela Merkel phoned Seoul Wednesday to condemn this week’s North Korean bombardment of a South Korean island and called for China and Russia to restrain Pyongyang.

Aides said she phoned South Korean President Lee Myung Bak to express her condolences over the deaths in the attack, which she sharply condemned. She … Original article on : Merkel urges Russia, China to restrain North Korea.

Statement by the Press Secretary, 11/24/10

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

On Wednesday, November 24, 2010, the President signed into law:

S. 3774, which extends through September 30, 2011, the deadline for States to spend supplemental … Read more >>>.

West Bengal Left Front starts seven-day protest

KOLKATA – West Bengal’s Left Front led by Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Wednesday started a seven-day sit-in to protest against the countrywide price rise and the alleged Maoist-Trinamool Congress nexus in the state.

As part of the programme set to end Nov 30, the front will observe labour workers day, women’s day, farmer’s day, …. Source  : West Bengal Left Front starts seven-day protest.

Kiran Kumar Reddy, a former Ranji cricketer

HYDERABAD – Nallari Kiran Kumar Reddy, who will take over as the 16th chief minister of Andhra Pradesh Thursday, was once a cricketer and played for Hyderabad in the Ranji Trophy tournament.

The 50-year-old, who is presently the speaker of the state legislative assembly, will be sworn in as the new chief minister by Governor … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kiran Kumar Reddy, a former Ranji cricketer.

Rosaiah quits, Kiran Kumar Reddy named successor (Night Lead)

HYDERABAD – Politics in Andhra Pradesh Wednesday took a dramatic turn as Chief Minister K. Rosaiah resigned citing age and work pressure and assembly Speaker N. Kiran Kumar Reddy was named his successor.

“Sonia Gandhi has named Kiran Kumar Reddy as the new leader,” senior Congress leader Pranab Mukherjee told reporters late Wednesday.
The governor … Read : Rosaiah quits, Kiran Kumar Reddy named successor (Night Lead).

Statement by Vice President Biden on Tomorrow’s Anniversary of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

“Around the globe, violence against women is an epidemic. Violence robs women and girls of their full potential and causes untold human suffering.  Violence …. Read the original article  : here.

Remarks by the President Pardoning the National Thanksgiving Turkey

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

Location: 

Rose Garden …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Remarks by the President Pardoning the National Thanksgiving Turkey.

Nitish ‘tsunami’ sweeps Bihar, wipes out Lalu, Congress (Intro Roundup)

PATNA/NEW DELHI – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Wednesday steered the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) to a historic electoral triumph bagging nearly 85 percent of the seats and decimating the Lalu Prasad-led opposition while virtually erasing the Congress from one of India’s most populous states.

In a verdict that left even experts groping for words, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nitish ‘tsunami’ sweeps Bihar, wipes out Lalu, Congress (Intro Roundup).

BJP hits back at Sonia on action against corrupt

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Wednesday hit back at Congress president Sonia Gandhi on the issue of taking action against corrupt leaders, saying there was nothing to be proud of if more leaders from Congress had resigned on allegations of wrongdoing.

“She has taken pride that many more resigned in the Congress. …. Original source  : BJP hits back at Sonia on action against corrupt.

Bihar’s women give thumbs up to Nitish Kumar

NEW DELHI – Reservation in Panchayat bodies, job opportunities, social security and, most importantly, respect — Bihar’s women got it all with Nitish Kumar as chief minister and were thus more than motivated to vote in large numbers to make sure their favourite leader came back to power.

“Bihar has seen development for the first …. Original source  : Bihar’s women give thumbs up to Nitish Kumar.

Britain’s queen arrives in UAE

Abu Dhabi, Nov 24 (IANS/WAM) Britain’s queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Philip arrived here Wednesday as part of their visit aimed at promoting ties with the region.

The queen will attend the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and pay her respects at the tomb of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the … Read more »».

Congress rules out alliance in Bihar in future

NEW DELHI – Despite a poor showing in the Bihar assembly polls, the Congress Wednesday indicated that the party will continue its policy of not forging electoral alliances in the state but expanding its party-base.

“We will build the party on our own for the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and not have any tie-up,” … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Congress rules out alliance in Bihar in future.

Elected BJP legislators to meet Thursday

NEW DELHI – A meeting of the newly-elected Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators in Bihar is scheduled to be held in Patna Thursday to elect the leader of the legislature party.

Party leaders Arun Jaitley, Ananth Kumar and Dharmendra Pradhan will attend the meeting as central observers.
The decision to send the three leaders …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Elected BJP legislators to meet Thursday.

OP-ED by Vice President Joe Biden in the Wall Street Journal: “The Case for Ratifying New Start”

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

The following op-ed, written by Vice President Joe Biden, was published in today’s Wall Street Journal:  
 
###

The Case for Ratifying New Start
President Obama has …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pay attention to your scam-ridden party, Mayawati tells Sonia

LUCKNOW – Sonia Gandhi should pay attention to her own party that was “full of scams”, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati said Friday while hitting out at the Congress president for her remarks on “rampant corruption” in the state.

In a statement issued a day after Gandhi’s rally in Allahabad, Mayawati lashed out at [..] Read the original article: here.

26/11 Mumbai Terror Attack: Promises Not Kept

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Home Minister P Chidambaram said in a statement today that Pakistan had failed to keep its promise to bring to justice the masterminds of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. The Home Minister also said that he hoped that Pakistan will understand its responsibility as a nation and take action against …. Read the original article  : 26/11 Mumbai Terror Attack: Promises Not Kept.

India asks Sri Lanka to launch dialogue for political settlement

COLOMBO – India Friday pressed Sri Lanka to launch a structured dialogue to address issues related to rehabilitation of those displaced by the war and a political settlement, and Colombo promised that all homeless Tamils will be resettled by the end of the year.

India and Sri Lanka also signed a credit arrangement for …. Read the original article  : India asks Sri Lanka to launch dialogue for political settlement.

Jagan discusses strategy with loyalists as some drift away

HYDERABAD – Congress MP Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy Friday went into a huddle with his loyalists to discuss the latest political developments in the state and chalk out strategy in the wake of Kiran Kumar Reddy becoming the new chief minister.

Some former ministers in the Rosaiah cabinet and at least 15 legislators called on Jagan, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jagan discusses strategy with loyalists as some drift away.

Krishna meets Sri Lankan President

COLOMBO – India’s External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Friday called on Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa to discuss various issues of bilateral interest, a media report said.

Krishna is here on a three-day official visit.
Officials of the two countries Friday signed an agreement where India offered $416 million for Sri Lanka’s northern railway development … Read more : Krishna meets Sri Lankan President.

NC-Congress coordination panel to meet Sunday

JAMMU – The National Conference and Congress coordination committee in Jammu and Kashmir is likely to meet here Sunday to smoothen differences that have cropped up between the two ruling alliance partners.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, however, is not likely to attend the meeting, sources in the National Conference told IANS.
The National Conference will …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

NC-Congress coordination panel to meet Sunday

JAMMU – The National Conference and Congress coordination committee in Jammu and Kashmir is likely to meet here Sunday to smoothen differences that have cropped up between the two ruling alliance partners.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, however, is not likely to attend the meeting, sources in the National Conference told IANS.
The National Conference will …. Read the original article  : here.

No ‘politics of vote’ in Assam, says Varun Gandhi

GUWAHATI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) kicked off its campaign for next year’s assembly elections in Assam, with MP Varun Gandhi claiming his party would desist from indulging in politics for votes.

We are not fighting against the Congress o0r the AGP (Asom Gana Parishad) but instead fighting against poverty, corruption and for the … Read : No ‘politics of vote’ in Assam, says Varun Gandhi.

Parliament adjourned again after 26/11 tributes (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Sticking to pattern, both houses of parliament were adjourned for the 11th successive day Friday with noisy opposition demanding a parliamentary probe into the 2G spectrum allotment scam. The uproar began immediately after a remembrance for the victims of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack.

As opposition protests erupted in the Lok Sabha, …. Source article  : Parliament adjourned again after 26/11 tributes (Second Lead).

Parliament adjourned after tributes to 26/11 victims

NEW DELHI – Like the last 11 days, both houses of parliament were adjourned with noisy protests by the opposition members demanding a parliamentary probe into the 2G spectrum allotment scam. The uproar began immediately after a remembrance for the victims of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack.

As opposition protests erupted in the Lok Sabha, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Parliament adjourned after tributes to 26/11 victims.

UN chief of staff to visit Myanmar

YANGON – The chief of staff of the UN secretary general was to visit Myanmar over the weekend to meet opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other politicians, officials said Friday.

“Vijay Nambiar will arrive in Yangon on Saturday via Bangkok for a two-day visit,” a senior government official told DPA on condition of [..] Read the original article: here.

Govt. pledges to redouble efforts to bring 26/11 attack perpetrators to justice

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Friday said that his Government would redouble efforts to bring the perpetrators of the Mumbai terror attack to justice.

In a statement issued on the second anniversary of the 26/11 attacks, Dr Singh said: “We will never succumb to the designs of our enemies. We pledge …. Original article  : Govt. pledges to redouble efforts to bring 26/11 attack perpetrators to justice.

Parliament adjourned after 26/11 tributes

NEW DELHI – Sticking to the pattern of the last 11 days, both houses of parliament were adjourned till 12 noon as opposition members pursued their demand for a parliamentary probe into the 2008 2G spectrum allotment. The uproar in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha began immediately after a remembrance for the victims …. Read the original article  : Parliament adjourned after 26/11 tributes.

Nitish set to take oath, thousands pour in

PATNA – The stage was set and thousands of people Friday started gathering at the sprawling Gandhi Maidan here to witness Nitish Kumar take oath as Bihar’s chief minister for a second consecutive term after a historic win in assembly polls.

Nitish Kumar did not want to be sworn in at Raj Bhavan – the …. Source article  : Nitish set to take oath, thousands pour in.

EU asks India, China to stop supporting Myanmar junta

BRUSSELS – The European Union Parliament has asked China, India and Russia to stop supporting the junta regime in Myanmar and exert pressure on the government to bring positive change in the country.

The parliament Thursday adopted a resolution welcoming the recent release of opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi but expressed concern about her …. Original source  : EU asks India, China to stop supporting Myanmar junta.

Dikshit attacks lieutenant governor

NEW DELHI – Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor Tejendra Khanna was Thursday attacked by Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit and the ruling Congress legislators for his “encroachment” upon the rights of the government led by her.

The attack comes in the backdrop of his refusal to give assent to the Delhi cabinet’s decision on fixing land rates in …. Original article  : Dikshit attacks lieutenant governor.

UAE, Britain sign nuclear cooperation agreement

ABU DHABI – The UAE and Britain have signed a nuclear cooperation agreement, it was announced Thursday.

UAE Foreign Affairs Minister Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan and British Foreign Secretary William Hague signed the agreement at the Emirates Palace hotel here.
Sheikh Abdullah and Hague also signed two memorandums of understanding on consular matters …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UAE, Britain sign nuclear cooperation agreement.

BJP, Congress in shouting match in Delhi assembly

NEW DELHI – The ruling Congress angrily protested when opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members shouted slogans against UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi while being marshalled out from the Delhi Assembly Thursday.

The BJP members raised slogans against Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit over the Commonwealth Games and said expenditure to …. Original article  : BJP, Congress in shouting match in Delhi assembly.

Chidambaram releases video featuring IAS topper from Kashmir

NEW DELHI – Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram Thursday released a video entitled Ray of Hope, which features Shah Faesal, an Indian Administrative Service entrance exam topper from Jammu and Kashmir, and highlights the importance of peace, communal harmony and national integration.

The video, released on the occasion of Flag Day, has been prepared …. Read the original article  : Chidambaram releases video featuring IAS topper from Kashmir.

Iraqi president assigns al-Maliki the task of government formation

BAGHDAD – Iraqi President Jalal al-Talabani Thursday officially assigned Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki the task of forming a new government, Iraqi news agencies reported.

Al-Maliki, head of the Shi’ite National Alliance, has 30 days to form a government comprised of groups which spent eight months reaching an agreement on how to allocate the country’s leadership [..] Read the original article: here.

‘Atheist’ Oz PM Gillard urged to use more religious terms in condolence speeches

CANBERRA – Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard has been advised by professional speechwriters to make use of more ‘religious languages’ at times of national grief, despite her professed atheism.

While expressing her, and the nation’s heartfelt sympathies for the families of the victims of the Greymouth mine disaster earlier this week, the Prime Minister reportedly avoided … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Atheist’ Oz PM Gillard urged to use more religious terms in condolence speeches.

Kiran Reddy meets Sonia, PM on cabinet expansion, Jagan

NEW DELHI – Newly-appointed Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Kiran Kumar Reddy met Congress party president Sonia Gandhi and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here Saturday and discussed with them the latest political situation and party affairs in the state.

Reddy consulted Gandhi on the final list of members to be included in the cabinet Sunday, as …. Read the original article  : here.

Sushma scoffs at Congress MPs’ decision to forgo allowance

NEW DELHI – A day after Congress MPs expressed their desire to forgo their daily allowance as no work was being transacted in parliament, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sushma Swaraj said it was a “prayshchit” (atonement) for their scams.

“Congress MPs’ decision to forgo Rs.2,000 allowance is ‘prayshchit’ for CWG and 2G scams,” Swarj … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sushma scoffs at Congress MPs’ decision to forgo allowance.

Bangladesh opposition calls for strike

DHAKA – Ignoring pleas from the business community which said political agitations have an impairing effect on the country’s economy, Bangladesh’s main opposition is preparing for a strike Nov 30.

While opposition leader Khaleda Zia of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) began conferring with her colleagues to ensure success of the dawn-to-dusk hartal (strike) she … Read more >>.

WikiLeaks release may harm ties with India, says US

NEW YORK – The US has alerted India on an upcoming publication of classified documents by online whistleblower WikiLeaks, which it says may harm American interests and create tension with its “friends”.

“We have reached out to India to warn them about a possible release of documents,” State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley said.
“We do … Read more : WikiLeaks release may harm ties with India, says US.

India now wary of Tamil issue, says daily (Lead, Superseding earlier story)

COLOMBO – Indian leaders are becoming wary of the ethnic issue in Sri Lanka, now that the war in the island nation is over, a daily said Saturday.

Referring to earlier times when New Delhi at times seemingly acted under pressure from Tamil Nadu leaders, the Daily Mirror said the situation had now changed.
It …. Read the original article  : India now wary of Tamil issue, says daily (Lead, Superseding earlier story).

Voters defy Maoists in Jharkhand’s first panchayat polls

RANCHI – Defying a boycott call of Maoists, voters started queuing up at polling booths early Saturday to cast their votes in Jharkhand’s maiden panchayat polls.

“I am standing here since 6.15 a.m. We have got a chance to elect mukhiyas (panchayat heads) and will not let go of this chance,” said Jamunia Devi, a …. Original article  : Voters defy Maoists in Jharkhand’s first panchayat polls.

Congress to probe Jagan’s breach of party discipline

NEW DELHI – Union Urban Development Minister S. Jaipal Reddy Saturday hit out at Congress MP Jaganmohan Reddy “for violating party discipline” after a TV channel owned by him aired critical remarks against party chief Sonia Gandhi and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

Jaipal Reddy said the Congress high command will probe the matter.
Sakshi TV … Original article on : Congress to probe Jagan’s breach of party discipline.

First phase of Jharkhand panchayat polls under way

RANCHI – Voters queued up at polling booths as the first phase of panchayat polls got under way in Jharkhand Saturday – the first such elections since the state was carved out from Bihar in 2000.

Polling began at 7 a.m. amid tight security and by 11 a.m., 15 to 20 percent votes were cast, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : First phase of Jharkhand panchayat polls under way.

Rey Decerega Elbows Barack Obama

WASHINGTON DC (GaeaTimes.com) There was some controversy surrounding as to who was the man responsible for the 44th President of the United States of America’s lip injury on Friday morning, until Rey Decerega broke out the news on Friday afternoon. Rey Decerega who is the director of programs for the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, himself …. Source  : Rey Decerega Elbows Barack Obama.

New ‘WikiLeaks revelations’ could damage allies’ relationships,
US tells UK

LONDON – The US ambassador to London Louis Susman has reportedly briefed the British Prime Minister David Cameron about the potentially embarrassing revelations by the whistleblower website ‘WikiLeaks,’ which when published within a few days could compromise Britain’s … Read this article on Gaea Times at : New ‘WikiLeaks revelations’ could damage allies’ relationships,
US tells UK.

Andhra’s new chief minister in Delhi to meet Sonia Gandhi

NEW DELHI – Newly-appointed Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Kiran Kumar Reddy arrived in Delhi Saturday to meet Congress chief Sonia Gandhi to finalise the names of his cabinet ministers ahead of the assembly session commencing Monday.

Reddy will also meet other senior party leaders, including Home Minister P. Chidambaram, Law Minister M. Veerappa Moily, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Andhra’s new chief minister in Delhi to meet Sonia Gandhi.

India, Sri Lanka now understand Tamil ethnic issues: Lankan daily

COLOMBO – Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna’s visit to Sri Lanka is drawing plenty of media interest in the island nation, with a leading daily Saturday saying that political leaders have now begun understanding Tamil militancy and the ethnic issues that affect both countries.

The article in Sri Lanka’s Daily Mirror newspaper by M.S.M. … Original source on Gaea Times at : India, Sri Lanka now understand Tamil ethnic issues: Lankan daily.

President Barack Obama Receives Stitches

WASHINGTON DC (GaeaTimes.com)- On Friday morning, an unfortunate accident happened to President Barack Obama, for which he had to take 12 stitches. The accident took place while a basketball game was going on, where the President was joined by his family and friends. President Barack Obama is known to be an avid basketball player. However, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : President Barack Obama Receives Stitches.

Traffic off road in Jammu to protest Omar’s remarks

JAMMU – All commercial and commuter traffic stayed off the roads in the Jammu region Saturday morning after a protest call by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) against Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s remarks challenging the nature of Jammu and Kashmir’s accession with India.

The BJP called for chakka jam or road blockade from 8 a.m. … Read more >>.

UN chief of staff visits Myanmar for political assessment

YANGON – The chief of staff of UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon arrived Saturday in military-ruled Myanmar to assess the country’s post-election political climate on a three-day trip, which was to include talks with opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Vijay Nambiar was scheduled to meet first with Foreign Minister Kyaw Hsan, after which he … Read : UN chief of staff visits Myanmar for political assessment.

President Barack Obama Elbowed in the Face

This is the ground where the President was hit by an unknown co-player who safely got away with the mishap. Well, Mr. Obama though had to bear 12 stitches for the same.
It all happened as Mr. Obama engaged himself in a little pre-presidenting hoop-shooting. Now, according to White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs,
After being …. Original article  : President Barack Obama Elbowed in the Face.

US readying other governments for WikiLeaks release

WASHINGTON – The US has been in discussions with countries around the world seeking to contain potential diplomat fallout over the pending publication of classified diplomatic cables and documents.

According to media reports in numerous countries Friday, US officials have reached out to the governments of Australia, Britain, Canada, Denmark, Israel, Norway and others to …. Source  : US readying other governments for WikiLeaks release.

Congress to establish broad-based alliance in Bengal

KOLKATA – In an apparent bid to pressurise ally Trinamool Congress, the West Bengal Pradesh Congress Friday announced that it was eyeing a broad-based alliance with secular parties to end the Left Front rule in the state.

Among the parties the Congress is trying to rope in is the People’s Democratic Conference in India (PDCI) …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Dikshit seeks curbs on Delhi Lt. Governor’s powers

NEW DELHI – Stepping up the ante against Delhi Lieutenant Governor Tejendra Khanna, Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit Friday said she has asked the central government to nullify its 2002 order that provides unbridled power to the office.

The administrative order by the central home ministry during the then National Democratic Alliance (NDA) regime said that [..] Read the original article: here.

South Korea asks China to intercede in Korean conflict

SEOUL – South Korean President Lee Myung-bak Sunday asked China to take a “fair and responsible” attitude toward aggressive actions by North Korea that have heightened the risk of war, Lee’s office said.

Lee conveyed the message to Chinese State Councillor Dai Bingguo, who arrived in Seoul as a special envoy of President Hu Jintao … Read more : South Korea asks China to intercede in Korean conflict.

How Brown used Sarkozy to wreck Blair’s dream of becoming Euro Prez

LONDON – Former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown wrecked Tony Blair’s dream of becoming President of Europe by provoking a heated row with Nicolas Sarkozy, reveals a book.

The French President was so angry that he refused to take phone calls from Brown. His attitude from that moment on was said to be ‘**** the Brits’.

Sarkozy …. Source  : How Brown used Sarkozy to wreck Blair’s dream of becoming Euro Prez.

WikiLeaks Intimation Given To India

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Pentagon and US government are getting sleepless nights ever since WikiLeaks, the whistle blower web site’s founder Julian Assange has declared that a huge set of sensitive documents containing U.S. diplomatic cables will be made available soon. This can definitely make the US government red faced. In fact, this … Read more >>>.

Hasina decries opposition’s strike call

DHAKA – Ahead of Tuesday’s general strike called by the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to protest its leader Khaleda Zia’s eviction from a house, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that Zia has no right to make people suffer.

Zia had no right to cause sufferings to people by calling hartal (strike) just to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Brown Govt. was paranoid, weak and unstable: US diplomats

LONDON – Secret briefings by US diplomats to President Barack Obama have described the government of former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown as paranoid, weak and unstable.

According to the Daily Express, the diplomatic cables were more about Labour. Brown was seen as paranoid and weak and unstable. These files to be revealed by the …. Source  : Brown Govt. was paranoid, weak and unstable: US diplomats.

Berlusconi’s babes”vicious catfight’ shakes up coalition

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi’s centre-right coalition is under threat following a vicious catfight between two of his most glamorous allies.

Mara Carfagna, a former topless model appointed equal opportunities minister two years ago, and Alessandra Mussolini, an MP who is not only the grand-daughter of the fascist dictator but also the niece of …. Read the original article  : here.

Most of the WikiLeaks cables date from 2004: Report

WASHINGTON/BERLIN – The first details of the illicit publication of US classified diplomatic cables and documents were leaking Saturday on the internet.

The US State Department was bracing for the publication by WikiLeaks of millions of confidential messages and reports sometime in the coming days. Germany’s Der Spiegel, London’s Guardian and the US’s New York … Read : Most of the WikiLeaks cables date from 2004: Report.

Ombudsman seeks Yeddyurappa’s response to land scam

BANGALORE – Karnataka Lok Ayukta (ombudsman) N.Santosh Hegde Saturday said that there appears to be a prima facie case in allegations of improper land deals against Chief Minister B. S. Yeddyurappa and has sought his response.

Hegde, a retired judge of the Supreme Court, told reporters here that he has issued notice to Yeddyurappa to …. Source article  : Ombudsman seeks Yeddyurappa’s response to land scam.

Pakistani president starts four-day visit to Sri Lanka

COLOMBO – Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari began a four-day visit to Sri Lanka Saturday, officials said.

The president is due to call on his Sri Lanka counterpart Mahinda Rajapaksa Sunday for talks on a range of topics, including trade and defence.
“The visit is aimed at further strengthening bilateral ties between the peoples of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistani president starts four-day visit to Sri Lanka.

BJP accuses Congress of cover-up in Adarsh scandal

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Saturday accused the Congress of being engaged in a cover up operation in Mumbai’s Adarsh Cooperative Housing scandal to shield some key people involved in it.

BJP spokesman Shahnawaz Hussain said that reports of some important papers relating to the scandal missing could be a part of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : BJP accuses Congress of cover-up in Adarsh scandal.

UAE daily praises country’s nuclear strides

Abu Dhabi, Nov 27 (IANS/WAM) A UAE daily Saturday praised the country’s nuclear agreement with Britain, saying it was a “noteworthy event” and shows the “world’s confidence in the country for being a progressive and responsible state”.

“A number of world powers have now entered into significant agreements with the UAE to share expertise in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : UAE daily praises country’s nuclear strides.

Kiran Reddy meets Sonia, PM; Congress warns Jagan (Evening Lead)

NEW DELHI – Newly-appointed Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Kiran Kumar Reddy met Congress president Sonia Gandhi here Saturday to finalise the list of his ministers, even as the Congress leadership warned defiant MP Jaganmohan Reddy with a “serious view of his activities”.

Reddy, who also called on Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, consulted Gandhi on … Read : Kiran Reddy meets Sonia, PM; Congress warns Jagan (Evening Lead).

Sonia soothes Omar on coalition concerns

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Saturday met Congress chief and United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi in New Delhi and was assured of full support to their coalition government in the state.

“The two leaders discussed various matters relating to the general situation and development of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K),” …. Original article  : Sonia soothes Omar on coalition concerns.

BJP women activists clash with Jammu police

JAMMU – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) women protestors clashed with the Jammu Police on Saturday during a three-hour-long demonstration against the surrender policy passed by the provincial cabinet recently. The Act allows the youth who had crossed into the Pakistan-Occupied -Kashmir (PoK) between 1989 and 2009 for arms training to return.

Several protestors got injured in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : BJP women activists clash with Jammu police.

India opens consulate in Jaffna, launches Northern Railway line

COLOMBO – Pushing for national reconciliation in Sri Lanka, India Saturday opened its consulate in Jaffna, the Tamil heartland, and inaugurated the Northern Railway lines for which New Delhi has pledged a $800-million credit that will spur the reconstruction of the war-ravaged northern region.

On the penultimate day of his four-day visit here, Indian External … Read more >>>.

Jharkhand panchayat polls record 64 percent voting (Third Lead)

RANCHI – The first phase of Jharkhand’s maiden panchayat elections concluded Saturday with around 64 percent balloting, an official said. The voting was largely peaceful barring stray incidents of violence.

“According to reports, 64 percent polling has taken place in the first phase. Maoists tried to disrupt polling at a few places, but it was …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Yeddyurappa, Kumarawamy continue trading allegations

BANGALORE – Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) leader H. D. Kumaraswamy Saturday claimed that an emissary of Chief Minister B. S. Yeddyurappa tried to broker a deal between them to end the land grab allegations against the latter.

“A close associate of Yeddyurappa telephoned me two days ago saying the chief minister wants to work out …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Yeddyurappa, Kumarawamy continue trading allegations.

Buddhadeb lambasts Mamata for making ‘false’ promises

BASIRHAT – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee Saturday alleged that the railways neither had the money nor managed to draw entrepreneurs to build factories as announced by Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee.

“How is the railways being run? The less said the better. Every day, factories are being announced. Big advertisements are being splashed in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Buddhadeb lambasts Mamata for making ‘false’ promises.

India lauds SCO’s role in regional security

NEW DELHI – India has reiterated its commitment to the six-nation Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and lauded the emergence of the intergovernmental military alliance as a dynamic regional grouping.

Power Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde represented Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the SCO summit in the Tajik capital Dushanbe Thursday.
In his address, … Read more : India lauds SCO’s role in regional security.

US warns Britain, India over new WikiLeaks revelations

LONDON/WASHINGTON – Whistleblower website WikiLeaks is set to release some three million documents online, and some of these could potentially damage the US relations with many countries, including Britain and India, according to reports Saturday.

It is not known what the documents are about, or whether India is mentioned. But State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Assam polls: Congress, ally in ‘friendly contest’

GUWAHATI – The ruling Congress party and its coalition partner Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) would put up candidates against each other in next year’s elections to the Assam assembly although it would be a “friendly contest”.

“We would be fielding our candidates in the Bodo heartland and same time the BPF would also be …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Assam polls: Congress, ally in ‘friendly contest’.

CPI-M wants Kerala assembly polls in April

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Monday informed the visiting Deputy Election Commissioner Alok Shukla that it wanted the forthcoming Kerala assembly elections to be held in a single phase in April next year.

Elections should not happen during the months of February or March because parents and children would be busy …. Original article  : CPI-M wants Kerala assembly polls in April.

Haiti Elections 2010 Claimed As Fraud

PORT-AU-PRINCE (GaeaTimes.com)- Much anticipated election of 2010 at Haiti ended on Sunday but within the hours of its successful ending, the candidates demanded a re-election calling it to a “massive fraud”. The candidates claimed that President Rene Preval tried his best to steal the election and choose his best candidate Jude Celestin for the … Read more »».

Visit visas misused for illegal migration, says minister

NEW DELHI – Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi Monday called for a check on the “misuse of visit visas”, citing it as one of the main reasons for illegal migration to Arab countries.

“The agents fleece the workers, issuing them these visas and once the visa expires, they become more or less like indentured …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Visit visas misused for illegal migration, says minister.

Full text of Jaganmohan Reddy’s letter to Sonia Gandhi

HYDERABAD – The following is the text of an open letter written by Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy to Congress president Sonia Gandhi Monday while resigning from the Congress party and parliament:

Respected Madam,
I am writing this letter to you with a very heavy heart and deep anguish. I have been suffering humiliation in silence during … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Full text of Jaganmohan Reddy’s letter to Sonia Gandhi.

Y. S. Jaganmohan Reddy Resigns

HYDERABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Congress leader Y. S. Jaganmohan Reddy gave his resignation as the party Member of Parliament on Monday. The Congress leader who is also the son of the former Chief Minister Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy, announced that he was resigning from the post of the party MP in a letter that was … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Y. S. Jaganmohan Reddy Resigns.

President Lee Myung-bak Criticizes North Korea’s Attack

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA (GaeaTimes.com)- With tension heightening in the Korean peninsula in the wake of the artillery duel between North Korea and South Korea, South Korean President Lee Myung-bak addressed the nation on Monday in which he described North Korea’s attack as ‘inhumane.’ The South Korean President had come under the scanner supposedly for … Read more >>>.

Geelani rubbishes Kashmir interlocutor’s suggestion

SRINAGAR – Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Geelani Monday said there was no ambiguity in his five-point proposal on Kashmir and interlocutor Dilip Padgaonkar was trying to create confusion just like the central government had done for decades.

“There is no ambiguity in my proposals as these are clear,” said Geelani, a hardline separatist, reacting to … Read more »»».

Jaganmohan’s resignation will not affect us, says Congress MP

NEW DELHI – Congress leader V. Hanumatha Rao Monday said the resignation of party MP Jaganmohan Reddy will have “no effect on the Congress” in Andhra Pradesh, adding that the party was “very strong”.

Rao, a Rajya Sabha MP from Andhra Pradesh, said only a few people close to Jaganmohan may quit following his resignation, [..] Read the original article: here.

WikiLeaks Publishes U.S. Diplomatic Cables

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)-The whistle-blowing website WikiLeaks is hogging the spotlight once again after it published about a quarter-million of United States diplomatic cables that are highly confidential. The whistle-blowing site had revealed late last week that it was all set to bring into the limelight certain confidential documents of the U.S. State Department that would …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Tony Blair ‘loved to drink while travelling’

LONDON – Journalist Robert Harris has revealed that former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair loved a tipple while travelling.

Harris said in an interview for BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs how the former Labour Prime Minister felt the lack of a drinking companion – neither his wife Cherie nor his former communications chief Alastair Campbell … Read more »».

Parliament closes without business for 12th day

NEW DELHI – Both houses of parliament were adjourned Monday, again without conducting any business, as the stalemate over appointing a joint parliamentary committee to probe the alleged scam in 2G spectrum allotment continued for the 12th day.

The government’s every effort to break the logjam has yielded no result and question hours in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Parliament closes without business for 12th day.

Jagan quits Congress with mother, also resigns as MP

HYDERABAD/NEW DELHI – Fourteen months after Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy died in a helicopter crash, his son Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy Monday resigned from the Congress and from parliament. Jagan’s mother Vijayalakshmi also quit the Congress as well as her Andhra Pradesh assembly seat.

However, Congress spokesperson Manish Tewari told reporters in the national capital that he … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jagan quits Congress with mother, also resigns as MP.

Mandela was angry at being banned from meeting UK PM Thatcher

LONDON – Former South African President Nelson Mandela was furious that he was banned from meeting former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and wanted to criticise her policies to her face, according to a leaked secret cable from WikiLeaks.

Plans to meet Mrs Thatcher in 1990 just months after he was released after 27 years in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mandela was angry at being banned from meeting UK PM Thatcher.

WikiLeaks: Physically and politically weak Berlusconi had wild parties in Italy

LONDON – Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi is said to have hosted numerous “wild parties” to cover his physical and political weaknesses, cables of the secret web site WikiLeaks reveal.

American diplomats, who interacted with him during their postings in Rome, describe Berlusconi as a “feckless, vain, and ineffective” leader in modern Europe.

They also accuse him … Read : WikiLeaks: Physically and politically weak Berlusconi had wild parties in Italy.

Escort reveals Berlusconi’s ‘bunga bunga’ parties full of young girls

LONDON – An escort, who was apparently paid 8,500 pounds to spend two nights with the Italian Prime Minister, Silvio Berlusconi, has revealed that his parties were ‘full of young girls’.

Nadia Macri said she was personally called by Berlusconi, and invited to a party he was hosting and how he described himself as “the dream … Read more >>>.

WikiLeaks Disclosure: Sarkozy, an emperor sans clothes, Putin, an alpha dog

LONDON – Disclosures by the secret web site WikiLeaks have revealed that the Obama administration and its representatives in various foreign capitals described French President Nicholas Sarkozy as an “Emperor without clothes”, Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad as ‘Hitler’ and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin as an “Alpha Dog”.

The disclosures, which have left Washington red-faced and …. Source  : WikiLeaks Disclosure: Sarkozy, an emperor sans clothes, Putin, an alpha dog.

Jagan quits Congress and parliament, mother resigns as MLA

HYDERABAD/NEW DELHI – Unhappy with the appointment of Kiran Kumar Reddy as the Andhra Pradesh chief minister and attempts to split his camp, Jaganmohan Reddy, son of late chief minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, Monday quit the Congress and from parliament. His mother Vijayalakshmi has also resigned as member of the state assembly.
… Original article on : Jagan quits Congress and parliament, mother resigns as MLA.

No question hour in parliament for 12th day

NEW DELHI – Question hour was derailed in both houses of parliament for the 12th day Monday as an unrelenting opposition persisted with its demand for a parliamentary panel probe into the controversial 2G spectrum allotment.

Peace prevailed briefly in the Lok Sabha when Speaker Meira Kumar asked MPs to join her in congratulating Indian …. Read the original article  : here.

WikiLeaks disclosures involve 3000 cables from Delhi to Washington

WASHINGTON – Among a cache of a quarter-million State Department cables released by WikiLeaks, 3,038 are from the US embassy in India, but no details were immediately available on the whistleblower website. Other cables pertain to communications from US missions in Islamabad, Colombo and Kathmandu.

India was one of the countries reached out by [..] Read the original article: here.

Bannu suicide bomber kills five including two policemen, scores injured

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has strongly condemned the bomb blast in northwest Pakistan on Tuesday which killed five people, including two policemen.

Gilani has called upon the concerned authorities to investigate into the incident and ensure proper medical facilities to the injured, Xinhua reported.

According to regional police chief Iftikhar Khan, a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Bannu suicide bomber kills five including two policemen, scores injured.

Non-BJP, Left parties meet president over JPC demand

NEW DELHI – With the stalemate in parliament continuing for the 13th day, opposition MPs from the non-BJP parties and the Left Tuesday met President Pratibha Patil and urged her to advise the government to accept the demand for a parliamentary probe into the 2G spectrum scam.

The president is the head of parliament, so …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

WikiLeaks’ Revelations About India

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The fear that U.S. had over the recent revelation of WikiLeaks, the famous whistle blower website is turning out to be true. Pentagon had worries that the recent revelation may affect the diplomatic relation of U.S. with its allies and other countries. Therefore, the US officials informed India and some … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : WikiLeaks’ Revelations About India.

`Charles doesn’t command the same respect as the Queen’

LONDON – Prince Charles “does not ‘command the same respect’ as the Queen”, said a cable from a US embassy official whistleblowing website WikiLeaks has revealed.

The Guardian reported Tuesday that Amitav Banerji, Commonwealth secretariat director of political affairs, told a US embassy political officer that “heir-apparent to the British crown, Prince Charles, does …. Original source  : `Charles doesn’t command the same respect as the Queen’.

Day 13: Parliament shuts again without business (Second Lead)

NEW DELHI – Both houses of parliament were closed for the 13th successive day Tuesday without any business as the tug of war between the government and the opposition over a parliamentary probe into the alleged irregularities in the allotment of 2G spectrum continued.

In a replay of what has been happening since parliament’s … Read : Day 13: Parliament shuts again without business (Second Lead).

North South divide in Kanglish

NEW DELHI – An upma, filter coffee tiffin break with Kannadigas visiting Delhi from Karnataka is something I wouldn’t miss for anything in the world. With disarming alacrity, they gossip about politics. Kannadiga -1 and Kannadiga – 2 are not from the Bharatiya Janata Party but are BJP supporters from Karnataka. After asking me all …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

2G scam: BJP sticks to JPC demand

NEW DELHI – The parliamentary party of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) met here today and decided to stick to its demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the 2G scam.

Meanwhile, the functioning of Parliament continued to be hit for the 13th working day over the opposition demand for a JPC probe. … Original article on : 2G scam: BJP sticks to JPC demand.

For 13th day, parliament adjourned over JPC demand

NEW DELHI – Parliament was adjourned for the day Tuesday — the 13th successive day when both the houses closed without transacting any business — as the opposition relentlessly pursued its demand for a parliamentary probe into the 2G spectrum allotment.

Soon after the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha were adjourned till Wednesday, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : For 13th day, parliament adjourned over JPC demand.

Charles doesn’t command the same respect as Queen: WikiLeaks

LONDON – Prince Charles “does not ‘command the same respect’ as the Queen”, said a cable from a US embassy official that was revealed by WikiLeaks.

The Guardian reported Tuesday that Amitav Banerji, Commonwealth secretariat director of political affairs, told a US embassy political officer that “heir-apparent to the British crown, Prince Charles, does not …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Charles doesn’t command the same respect as Queen: WikiLeaks.

Zardari ‘dirty but not dangerous’, Sharif ‘dangerous but not dirty’: Abu Dhabi Crown Prince

LAHORE – According to the latest revelations made by whistleblower website WikiLeaks, the crown prince of Abu Dhabi described Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari as “dirty but not dangerous” and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif as “dangerous but not dirty”.

In July 2009, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed, Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE … Read more »»».

YSR’s brother pledges loyalty to Congress

HYDERABAD – Former Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy’s brother Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy Tuesday said he would remain in the Congress and denied his nephew Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy’s allegation that the party was trying to divide the family.

After a brief meeting with Jagan, as Rajasekhara Reddy’s son is popularly known, Vivekananda told reporters …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy Resigns: Reactions Pouring In

HYDERABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- With Congress Member of Parliament Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy submitting his resignation to AICC chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Monday, reactions have been pouring in from various quarters. The Congress leader’s decision to parts ways from the party has already managed to create a furore in the state Congress while the rival parties …. Original article  : Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy Resigns: Reactions Pouring In.

Winter session of Bihar assembly begins

PATNA – The winter session of the Bihar assembly began here Tuesday, nearly a week after the polls gave a thumping victory to the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government of Nitish Kumar.

Pro-tem speaker Sadanand Singh will administer oath of office to 243 newly elected members of the 15th Bihar assembly. The Janata Dal-United (JD-U), … Read more »».

After WikiLeaks: US for global leadership role for India

NEW DELHI – The US welcomes India’s greater global leadership role in the world, American envoy Timothy Roemer said Tuesday, a day after leaked diplomatic cables described India as amongst the self-appointed frontrunners for the United Nations Security Council membership.

On Monday, WikiLeaks released thousands of diplomatic cables, which included one signed by US Secretary …. Original source  : After WikiLeaks: US for global leadership role for India.

Nepal awaits WikiLeaks’ dossiers with bated breath

KATHMANDU – Whistleblower WikiLeaks’ disclosure of confidential US documents could cause Nepal’s history of its 10-year insurgency and the transition from monarchy to a republic to be rewritten, once – or if – over 2,000 confidential documents relating to the country are made public.

The Himalayan nation began a vigil Tuesday, awaiting revelations about its … Read more >>.

Bangladesh opposition enforces dawn-to-dusk strike

DHAKA – Opposition parties in Bangladesh enforced a dawn-to-dusk strike against the government Tuesday, a day after former prime minister Khaleda Zia lost an appeal before the Supreme Court against eviction from her Dhaka Cantonment house.

The hartal (strike) call, given after Zia’s eviction Nov 13, was for demanding action to resolve the miseries of … Read more : Bangladesh opposition enforces dawn-to-dusk strike.

`WikiLeaks expose shows US complicity in Honduran coup’

Tegucigalpa, Nov 30 (IANS/EFE) Ousted Honduran president Mel Zelaya has said that one of the US diplomatic cables published by whistleblower website Wikileaks demonstrates Washington’s “complicity” with the June 2009 coup against his government.

The cable shows the US government knew the true nature of the events of June 28, 2009, Zelaya said Monday in … Read more »».

Clinton condemns leaks: US diplomats reach out to India

WASHINGTON – As US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton condemned whistleblower website WikiLeaks’ release of a quarter million documents, a senior official said the US has had multiple conversations with officials in India in a damage control exercise.

Clinton Monday branded the leaks as an “attack on international community” saying the illegal disclosure of … Original article on : Clinton condemns leaks: US diplomats reach out to India.

Secret US cables show speculation over North Korea’s future

WASHINGTON – Secret US cables depict conversations between US and South Korea officials about the possibility of the regime in North Korea collapsing and plotting over China’s response, The New York Times reported Monday.

According to The Times, the US ambassador to Seoul relayed the content of conversations with a South Korean official who predicted …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Secret US cables show speculation over North Korea’s future.

Statement by the Press Secretary on Medicare Payments to Doctors

Release Time: 

For Immediate Release

“President Obama is pleased Congress has passed legislation that will prevent payment cuts to doctors from taking effect next month. The President urges Congress …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Statement by the Press Secretary on Medicare Payments to Doctors.