Breaking News – Weekly Newsletter for December 6-13, 2010
Monday, December 13, 2010
Threat of attack on UAE through missiles is real: Official
ABU DHABI – The threat of attack on United Arab Emirates “from long range ballistic missiles is real”, a senior military official has said.
Speaking at the Middle East Missile and Air Defence Symposium, Major General Ali Mohammad Subaih Al Kaabi, deputy chief of staff of the UAE Armed Forces, said that the country has … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Threat of attack on UAE through missiles is real: Official.
Brits collect 13mn days of unused holiday leaves!
LONDON – A new survey has revealed that British workers have 13.1m days of holiday left to take before the end of the year.
Nearly half of all employees – 45 percent – say they have unused holiday remaining to take before the end of the year, reports the Guardian.
One in 10 were willing to sacrifice [..] Read the original article: here.
An average Briton doesn’t get the hang of driving till 59!
LONDON – The average Briton is unable to get the hang of driving till they turn 59, a study found.
A survey of 4,000 motorists found that those aged 59 are least likely to have crashed a car in the last 12 months, suffer road rage or been stopped by police, reports the Daily Express.
They are …. Original article on Gaea Times at : An average Briton doesn’t get the hang of driving till 59!.
Grassland fire kills 22, injures 4 in China
BEIJING – A fire sweeping across grasslands in Southwest China has reportedly killed 22 people and injured four others.
Among the 22 dead, are 15 soldiers, five villagers and two forest workers.
According to the China Daily, about 85 firefighters and more rescuers have been sent to the site where the fire broke out at about … Original article on : Grassland fire kills 22, injures 4 in China.
Wills, Kate engagement pics to be released soon
WASHINGTON – Kate Middleton and Prince William sat for their first engagement portrait with fashion photographer Mario Testino.
Testino – a fashion photographer who is well known for his pictures of celebrities and royalty – was behind the lens to shoot Middleton and her fiance for their first official photo.
He has also shot Prince William, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Wills, Kate engagement pics to be released soon.
Iran claims production of nuke yellowcake
TEHRAN – Iran has confirmed that it has become self-sufficient in production of nuclear yellowcake.
Yellowcake is the final product of the milling of uranium ore. It contains about 80 % of uranium oxide and is usually represented by the formula U3O8.
Yellowcake is actually brown or black, not yellow; the name comes from the colour and …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Iran claims production of nuke yellowcake.
Brit-Indian bride was ’sexually assaulted’ before murder in S.Africa: Sources
LONDON – Brit-Indian honeymooner Anni Dewani, who was shot dead in South Africa last month, may have been sexually assaulted before being murdered, sources have said.
Anni and her husband Shrien Dewani were two weeks into their Cape Town honeymoon when the taxi they were in was hijacked in the Khayelitsha township by two men armed …. Source article : Brit-Indian bride was ’sexually assaulted’ before murder in S.Africa: Sources.
Now, mini WikiLeaks on web, US cautions Switzerland over Assange asylum offer
LONDON – The Obama administration has reportedly put pressure on Switzerland about any moves to offer a haven to WikiLeaks founder, Julian Assange, warning that country’s government to be careful about which person it is offering asylum to, even as the latter’s supporters have erected numerous copies of the site on the Internet on Sunday.
Saudi Arabian donors largest funders of al-Qaida, Taliban, LeT: WikiLeaks
ISLAMABAD – Saudi Arabia is the world’s largest source of funds for Islamist militant groups such as the Afghan Taliban and Lashkar-e-Taiba a diplomatic cable unveiled by the whistle-blower website WikiLeaks has revealed.
“More needs to be done since Saudi Arabia remains a critical financial support base for al-Qaida, the Taliban, LeT and other terrorist … Read : Saudi Arabian donors largest funders of al-Qaida, Taliban, LeT: WikiLeaks.
Brit-Indian bride’s murder trial set to begin in South Africa
CAPE TOWN – The trial of three men arrested for the murder of Anni Dewani, the Brit-Indian honeymooner in South Africa last month, is set to begin in Cape Town’s Wynberg Regional Court today.
Anni and her husband Shrien Dewani were two weeks into their Cape Town honeymoon when the taxi they were in was hijacked … Read more »».
Pak-Afghan accord to eliminate militant sanctuaries ‘wherever they are’
KABUL – Pakistan and Afghanistan have renewed their commitment to eliminate militant sanctuaries in their territories, which can be used for acts of subversion in either country.
A joint declaration issued at the end of Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani’s two-day visit to Kabul said both countries would again undertake to effectively cooperate, combat and defeat …. Original source : Pak-Afghan accord to eliminate militant sanctuaries ‘wherever they are’.
India-France sign agreement on civil nuclear cooperation
NEW DELHI – India and France Monday signed a general framework agreement and four other pacts for deeper bilateral cooperation in the atomic energy sector.
After delegation level talks between visiting French President Nicolas Sarkozy and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh here, both sides also signed three other agreements.
The general framework agreement between Nuclear …. Source : Gaea News Network.
‘Queen’s undergarments’ to be auctioned off in US
LONDON – A pair of undergarments that apparently belonged to the Queen are set to go under the hammer in the US.
According to the celebrity website TMZ, the monogrammed item reportedly came into the possession of notorious Miami playboy named ‘Baron’ Joseph de Bicske Dobronyi more than 40 years ago.
He received the garment from a [..] Read the original article: here.
Nine years after 9/11, US frustrated with millions still flowing into Qaeda coffers
WASHINGTON – Secret diplomatic cables exposed by the whistle-blowing web site WikiLeaks have revealed that senior Obama administration officials are still concerned and alarmed over millions of dollars flowing largely unimpeded to extremist groups worldwide, even nine years after 9/11.
The diplomatic dispatches show American diplomats getting increasingly frustrated by the frequent resistance from allies in … Read more : Nine years after 9/11, US frustrated with millions still flowing into Qaeda coffers.
Scribbled thoughts reveal Michelangelo was a tortured poet
LONDON – He was known for his extraordinary achievements in sculpture and painting, but Michelangelo was apparently a tortured poet – a relatively unknown fact to the world.
Now, a new book has revealed that the Renaissance artist used to scribble thoughts that were ‘achingly personal expressions of ambition and despair surely meant for nobody’s … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Scribbled thoughts reveal Michelangelo was a tortured poet.
Inter-school meet kicks off in Imphal
IMPHAL – The third Inter-school meet organised by the Department of Education of Manipur kicked off on Sunday.
The meet began with the idea of developing a kind of fellow feeling, integration and unity among students of the state.
“This school meet-2010’s main objective is to inculcate essence of integrity among school going students and to expose …. Read the original article : Inter-school meet kicks off in Imphal.
Israel eyeing global market for exporting ‘domestic security technology’
TEL AVIV – Israel has moved aggressively to turn domestic security technology into one of its biggest exports, as terrorism threats continue to spread across the globe.
“We might be a small country, but we’re not small in this business,” the Los Angeles Times quoted Avi Hefetz, director of the Israel Export and International Cooperation [..] Read the original article: here.
S. Korea starts naval firing drills amid rising tension with North
SEOUL – Brushing aside North Korean warnings of an eminent war on the Korean Peninsula, South Korea has begun live-fire artillery drills near their disputed maritime border on Monday.
The live drills come less than two weeks after North Korea’s surprise shelling of a South Korea-held island, sharply escalating tensions between the two countries.
It was … Read : S. Korea starts naval firing drills amid rising tension with North.
Brit MP denies aide is Russian spy
LONDON – Liberal Democrat MP Mike Hancock has denied that his glamorous aide Katia Zatuliveter is a Russian spy.
Hancock said Zatuliveter was a “conscientious worker” and denied she has done anything improper, reports Sky News.
“I have no reason to believe she did anything but act honourably all the time she was working for me,” he …. Original article : Brit MP denies aide is Russian spy.
Gordon Ramsay sued for ???1m after canceling speaking tour
LONDON – Telly chef Gordon Ramsay has apparently been sued for 1 million pounds after pulling out of a speaking tour.
The promoter of the New Zealand trip said Ramsay had given only a week’s notice, reports the Sun.
An email from the star’s then manager Christopher Hutcheson said Ramsay’s mother had suffered a minor heart attack.
The …. Original article : Gordon Ramsay sued for ???1m after canceling speaking tour.
50pc Brit parents split up before their children turn 16
LONDON – A study has revealed that half of all Brit parents split up even before their children reach the age of 16.
The research found the collapse of cohabiting relationships, rather than divorce, is to blame for the rise in …. Original article : 50pc Brit parents split up before their children turn 16.
Escort dies from cocaine binge supplied by Indian origin doctor
MELBOURNE – An Indian origin doctor in Australia has been charged with manslaughter after an escort, who he supplied with a large amount of cocaine, died.
Neurosurgeon Dr Suresh Surendranath Nair is said to have given three prostitutes a huge dose of cocaine, and while two left his Sydney [..] Read the original article: here.
Passengers strip to undies in support, protest of new TSA regulations
WASHINGTON – Ever since the TSA implemented new pat-down security measures, passengers have been trying out different stunts in protest or support of the controversial regulations.
The most eye-catching trend that has emerged however is the number of passengers stripping down to their underwear, Fox News reported.
A …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Yemen diverted US counter-terrorism aid meant to tackle Al Qaeda: WikiLeaks
LONDON – A December 2009 cable sent by the US embassy in Yemeni capital Sanaa, published by WikiLeaks, shows that Yemen deployed a US-funded counter-terrorism unit to fight domestic rebels instead of Al Qaeda.
The counter-terrorism unit was deployed to fight against militant Houthi rebels in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Yemen diverted US counter-terrorism aid meant to tackle Al Qaeda: WikiLeaks.
How ‘womanising’ MP became obsessed with ‘Russian’ women
LONDON – Brit MP Mike Hancock is under the spotlight for his obvious preference to hire Eastern European women as assistants.
The Liberal Democrat MP met Ekaterina Paderina, then 25, on several occasions following the demise of her marriage to retired merchant seaman, Eric Butler, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : How ‘womanising’ MP became obsessed with ‘Russian’ women.
Burmese military junta chief thought of buying Man U: WikiLeaks
Myanmar Junta leader Than Shwe thought about spending a billion dollars to buy out Manchester United when his country was being devastated by Cyclone Nargis, whistle blowing web site WikiLeaks has revealed through exposed US diplomatic cables.
According to The Guardian, Than Shwe was urged to make the bid by his grandson.
The …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Burmese military junta chief thought of buying Man U: WikiLeaks.
Pak’s “dysfunctional criminal justice system” threat to international security: ICG
ISLAMABAD/BRUSSELS – Pakistan’s dysfunctional criminal justice system poses serious risks for domestic, regional and international security, and therefore the federal and provincial governments must make its reform a top priority, the International Crisis Group, an independent …. Source article : Pak’s “dysfunctional criminal justice system” threat to international security: ICG.
Obama criticises Jintao over not condemning North Korea’s provocative actions openly
WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has reportedly criticised his Chinese counterpart Hu Jintao during a telephonic conversation between the two leaders, saying that Beijing was emboldening North Korea by not challenging its actions in public, …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Obama criticises Jintao over not condemning North Korea’s provocative actions openly.
Sarkozy pays tribute to 26/11 martyrs
MUMBAI – French President Nicolas Sarkozy today paid tribute to victims of the 26/11 terror attacks and called upon Pakistani authorities to show that they are resolute in combating terrorism.
Speaking at a special memorial service held at the Trident-Oberoi Hotel, which had along with Taj Mahal Hotel, bore the brunt … Read : Sarkozy pays tribute to 26/11 martyrs.
Rain In Chennai Continues Unabated
CHENNAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The city of Chennai and other parts of Tamil Nadu are reeling under the onslaught of heavy rainfall for the past few days. The heavy downpour has left many dead while thousands have been rendered homeless. The torrential rains which have been triggered due to the low pressure in the Bay … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rain In Chennai Continues Unabated.
US aiming to prosecute WikiLeaks founder Assange over diplomatic cables release
WASHINGTON – US Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. has reportedly authorised “significant” actions aimed at prosecuting WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange over the release of thousands of diplomatic cables.
Holder, who did not specify what these actions might be, also said his justice department was examining ways to stop the flow of leaked cables.
“The lives of …. Read the original article : here.
Leaked Wikileaks’ cables list ‘vital US security’ facilities
WASHINGTON – Secret US diplomatic cables released by the whistleblower website ‘Wikileaks’ have revealed a long list of key facilities around the world that the US describes as vital to its national security.
According to the BBC, the list includes pipelines, communication and transport hubs.
Besides, a number of BAE Systems plants involved in joint weapons …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Leaked Wikileaks’ cables list ‘vital US security’ facilities.
Indians getting preference over black students at Oxford University
LONDON – A report prepared by the UK admissions body, Ucas, has claimed that Indian students are getting preference compared to black candidates for undergraduate courses at Oxford and Cambridge Universities, as far as admissions are concerned.
Oxford’s breakdown of its latest undergraduate admissions figures, published on its website reveals a total of …. Read the original article : here.
North India reels under severe cold wave
NEW DELHI – An intense cold wave continues to grip north India with several regions facing extremely low temperatures.
The temperature in New Delhi plunged to 7.9 degree Celsius this morning.
In Haryana, the minimum temperature at Hissar dipped to 3.2 degrees Celsius, which is three notches below normal range.
According to the Met Department, Narnaul also …. Read the original article : North India reels under severe cold wave.
2G scam: JPC demand continues to stall Parliament
NEW DELHI – The deadlock in Parliament over the 2G scam continued for the 18th straight day on Tuesday, with the opposition remaining adamant on their demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe.
United Progressive Alliance (UPA) partners like the Trinamool Congress also joined the opposition in demanding a JPC investigation into the scam. The … Read more : 2G scam: JPC demand continues to stall Parliament.
US lobbied UN climate head Pachauri to block Iranian scientist’: WikiLeaks
NEW YORK – Dr. Rajendra Pachauri, the chairman of the United Nations Inter-Inter-GPCC, was asked by US diplomats to help scupper the election of Dr Mostafa Jafari to the co-chairmanship of an IPCC “core working group”, the whistle-blowing web site, WikiLeaks, has stated.
Dr Pachauri, a 70-year-old Indian engineer who has headed the UN-affiliated panel since …. Original article on Gaea Times at : US lobbied UN climate head Pachauri to block Iranian scientist’: WikiLeaks.
Preventing gridlock – developing next generation internet infrastructure
LONDON – To keep pace with society’s ever increasing data-transmission requirements, the University of Southampton is leading a new project that is set to develop the next generation of internet infrastructure to enhance the capacity of broadband core networks, providing increased bandwidth of 100 times current capacity.
The 11.8m Euro MODE-GAP project, funded under the EU … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Preventing gridlock – developing next generation internet infrastructure.
Scottish artist wins Turner Prize for sound installation
LONDON – Susan Philipsz, a Scottish artist, has become the first person to win Turner Prize for sound installation.
Philipsz records herself singing 16th century laments and plays them in unusual locations, including supermarket aisles and a series of bridges over the Clyde in Glasgow.
The judges said her work, ‘Lowlands’, “provokes both intellectual and instinctive responses …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Scottish artist wins Turner Prize for sound installation.
Flowers exhibition attracts visitors in Jaipur
JAIPUR – Hundreds of visitors thronged to see over 200 varieties of Guldaudi flowers put on display in an ongoing exhibition in Jaipur.
Around 218 varieties of Guldaudi flowers were displayed in around 4000 pots which were categorised in 125 groups.
The organiser of the exhibition, Rajasthan University Garden, has earned Rs. 2, 00,000 with the sale … Original article on : Flowers exhibition attracts visitors in Jaipur.
Jaganmohan Reddy to launch new political party in 45 days
KADAPA – Days after resigning from the Congress, Y S Jaganmohan Reddy on Tuesday announced that he will launch a new political party in 45 days.
Talking to reporters here, Reddy said: “I will be launching a new political party in 45 days.”
He claimed the late YSR’s supporters would bless and support his new …. Source article : Jaganmohan Reddy to launch new political party in 45 days.
Assange was a bright kid, says stepfather
MELBOURNE – Beleaguered WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange was a bright kid, with a strong sense of right and wrong, and he always fought for the underdog, his stepfather has said.
Brett Assange, who lives in Sydney’s inner suburbs, helped raise Julian from the age of one, the Herald Sun reported Wednesday.
“He was very …. Read the original article : here.
WikiLeaks founder Assange ‘unlikely’ to be extradited to US
LONDON – WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is ‘very unlikely’ to be extradited to the US from Britain according to a US national security law expert.
Phillip Adams, an ABC radio presenter and member of the WikiLeaks Advisory Board, said in a phone interview said he believed the Swedish sexual misconduct case … Read : WikiLeaks founder Assange ‘unlikely’ to be extradited to US.
Sex act with knife gone wrong lands man in hospital and woman in jail
MELBOURNE – A Swedish couple’s attempt to spice up their sex life went horribly wrong when the man was stabbed in the thigh.
According to the Expressen newspaper, police believe alcohol may have contributed to the sexual mishap that began when a 47-year-man cut off his girlfriend’s stockings with a … Original article on : Sex act with knife gone wrong lands man in hospital and woman in jail.
Danish actor may have inspired comic-book hero Tintin
LONDON – Late Danish actor Palle Huld may have been the inspiration behind writer Georges Remi a.k.a. Herge’s comic-book hero, Tintin.
Huld, who passed away this year, had been a red-haired 15-year-old boy with freckles and a snub nose, when he entered a …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Danish actor may have inspired comic-book hero Tintin.
Father in UK ‘rapes teenage daughter for a child’
LONDON – A teenage girl in Britain has revealed that her father repeatedly raped her until she became pregnant to provide a child for him and his infertile partner.
The girl was just 16 when her father forced her to have sex with him every day for a month … Original article on : Father in UK ‘rapes teenage daughter for a child’.
Typical rapist is a charmer, not a misfit: Oz study
SYDNEY – A new Australian study has found that a typical rapist does not look anywhere threatening, but rather he is talkative, charming, engaging and even employed in a good job.
The person is not a loner and he can be found at work, at a party, …. Source article : Typical rapist is a charmer, not a misfit: Oz study.
Nigeria files bribery charges against Cheney in LNG plant scandal
LAGOS – The Nigerian anti-corruption agency has reportedly filed charges against former US Vice-President Dick Cheney for his alleged involvement in a bribery scandal involving Halliburton, the company he once headed.
Cheney was Halliburton’s chief executive before becoming Vice-President to George W Bush in 2001. …. Source article : Nigeria files bribery charges against Cheney in LNG plant scandal.
Tanya Shannon Missing
RANSOM (GaeaTimes.com)- Tanya Shannon, an Illinois woman and mother of four children suddenly disappeared on Sunday night after her car crashed. Her husband Dale Shannon died on the spot as his back had been broken in the cash. After three days of search the police could got trace the missing woman though they have …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Tanya Shannon Missing.
Fashion house Louis Vuitton to display Hindu motifs worldwide during December
NEVADA – Louis Vuitton, one of the leading international fashion houses, will “lit up with elegant displays of traditional Hindu motifs” during the entire month of December in its global network of stores as an extended celebration of Hindu festival of Diwali, according to reports.
A release says that for Louis Vuitton (LV) “Diwali will be …. Read the original article : Fashion house Louis Vuitton to display Hindu motifs worldwide during December.
Hindus greet Christians on Christmas
NEVADA – Hindus have sent early greetings to Christian communities world over for upcoming Christmas.
Well-known Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a release in Nevada (USA) today, expressed warmest greetings on the Christmas, wishing that it brought joy, happiness, blessings and cheer to all.
Rajan Zed, who is president of Universal Society of Hinduism, stressed that …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Hindus greet Christians on Christmas.
2G logjam: Parliament adjourned yet again
NEW DELHI – The deadlock in Parliament over the 2G scam continued for the 19th straight day on Wednesday, with the opposition remaining adamant on their demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) today raided the residences of former Telecom Minister A Raja in Delhi, along with his homes …. Original article on Gaea Times at : 2G logjam: Parliament adjourned yet again.
Father-in-law of Afghan girl whose nose and ears were lopped as punishment arrested
KABUL – The father-in-law of an Afghan teenager, whose nose and ears were hacked off after she fled her husband’s abusive home, has been arrested in the country’s Chora district of central Uruzgan province, and is reportedly being questioned by police in this connection.
Eighteen-year-old Aisha’s nose and … Read more >>>.
World’s ‘most expensive’ book on birds sells for 7.3m pounds
LONDON – A stunning book by a wildlife artist who influenced Charles Darwin became the world’s most expensive book when it went under the hammer at an auction on Tuesday night.
A rare copy of ‘Birds of America’ by John James Audubon was sold for a record-breaking price of 7.3 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : World’s ‘most expensive’ book on birds sells for 7.3m pounds.
Got the munchies? Try Oakland prof’s savoury cannabis recipes!
NEW YORK – Trying unusual cuisines isn’t really a bad idea for those who like to tickle their taste buds with different foods.
A California cooking teacher, who has been experimenting with marijuana edibles, has penned a book of savoury cannabis dishes.
Sandy … Read : Got the munchies? Try Oakland prof’s savoury cannabis recipes!.
Asian-American men ‘paid less than whites’
WASHINGTON – A new study has revealed that U.S. employers don’t pay Asian-American men as much as they pay equally qualified white men.
Researchers at the University of Kansas analysed data from the 2003 National Survey of College Graduates to investigate …. Original article : Asian-American men ‘paid less than whites’.
Hindus laud Germany for doubling aid to Holocaust survivors
NEVADA – Hindus have applauded German government for reportedly agreeing to double the funding for home care of Holocaust survivors, raising it to about $147 million annually.
Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, said that “it was the right …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Hindus laud Germany for doubling aid to Holocaust survivors.
Rielle Hunter And John Edwards Reuniting?
WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- It looks like John Edwards will have a hard time shaking off his public image as the web has been abuzz with the speculations about him getting back together with former mistress Rielle Hunter right after the news of his estranged wife Elizabeth Edwards broke. While there are reports of the …. Original source : Rielle Hunter And John Edwards Reuniting?.
US sitcoms turning Saudis against terror better than its official propaganda: Wikileaks
RIYADH – Secret cables released by the whistleblower website ‘Wikileaks’ have revealed that Saudi youths, who watch the US TV shows like ‘Desperate Housewives and Late Show With David Letterman’, are being persuaded by these programmes to reject violent jihad far better than millions of dollars of US government propaganda.
The Guardian quoted informants as …. Source : US sitcoms turning Saudis against terror better than its official propaganda: Wikileaks.
Saudi wanted joint Arab-US-NATO force to destroy Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon
RIYADH – Saudi Arabia had proposed creating an Arab force backed by US and NATO aerial and navy power to intervene in Lebanon two years back and destroy Iranian-backed Hezbollah, according to one of the US diplomatic cables released WikiLeaks.
According to the Guardian, the execution of the plan would have sparked a combat between the …. Source : Saudi wanted joint Arab-US-NATO force to destroy Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon.
PETA slams Palin for using animal hunting controversy to boost show ratings
NEW YORK – Sarah Palin has been slammed by PETA for using her hunting escapades to boost the ratings of her show ‘Sarah Palin’s Alaska’.
The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) believe Palin is spending so much small screen time clubbing halibut and quartering caribou because she is trying to improve her …. Read the original article : PETA slams Palin for using animal hunting controversy to boost show ratings.
Conference on Information Age in public diplomacy to highlight impact of 24??7 media
NEW DELHI – People-to-people diplomacy is playing an important role in international relations in the contemporary global world, adding a new dimension to international relations and redefining the way a country engages with its citizens to garner support for its foreign policy and national interests.
To better understand how public diplomacy in the new millennium has …. Original source : Conference on Information Age in public diplomacy to highlight impact of 24×7 media.
Norway gives all-clear to Bangladesh-based Grameen Bank
LONDON – Norway has reportedly said that there are “no more unanswered questions” into claims that Bangladeshi micro-credit pioneer Grameen Bank’s Muhammad Yunus had wrongly diverted millions of dollars of aid money.
A spokesman for the Foreign Ministry in Oslo said that the matter had been thoroughly investigated and that it considered it to be closed.
“We … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Norway gives all-clear to Bangladesh-based Grameen Bank.
WikiLeaks cables reveal secret plan to remove Mugabe from power in Zimbabwe
LONDON – A coup was planned to remove Zimbabwe’s President Robert Mugabe with the help of pressure from UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, according to classified US diplomatic cables released by whistleblower website Wikileaks.
According to the Guardian, a group of exiled Zimbabwean businessman proposed in 2007 that Mugabe could be persuaded to hand over executive …. Original article on Gaea Times at : WikiLeaks cables reveal secret plan to remove Mugabe from power in Zimbabwe.
Americans see Al-Qaeda as greatest security threat, North Korea next: Poll
WASHINGTON – A new poll has found that nearly two-thirds of Americans consider Al-Qaeda as a greater security threat to the United States, than North Korea or Iran.
When asked in recent Christian Science Monitor/TIPP poll to rate a list of countries or entities on a 1-to-10 scale based on the threat they pose to the … Original article on : Americans see Al-Qaeda as greatest security threat, North Korea next: Poll.
US strategy working in Afghanistan: Robert Gates
KABUL – United States Defence Secretary Robert Gates has said that he is “convinced” that the US strategy in Afghanistan is working.
Gates gave his assessment on the second day of a visit to Afghanistan that included stops at several U.S. military bases and a meeting with Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai.
“I will go back convinced that …. Source : US strategy working in Afghanistan: Robert Gates.
Insult to Indian Ambassador Meera Shankar unacceptable, says Krishna
NEW DELHI – After Indian Ambassador to the US Meera Shankar was patted down by an American security agent at the Jackson – Evers International Airport in Mississippi, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna today said that such behaviour from the United States was not acceptable to India.
In a statement Krishna said: “I am rather surprised … Read : Insult to Indian Ambassador Meera Shankar unacceptable, says Krishna.
Brit man told by hospital he’s pregnant, maybe with twins
LONDON – A man in Britain was left “flabbergasted” after a hospital told him that he was pregnant and could be expecting twins.
Hilton Plettell, 50, from Birmingham, received a letter inviting him for a scan at the ante-natal department of Norfolk and Norwich University NHS Hospital, to find out how far pregnant he was.
Plettell, a … Read : Brit man told by hospital he’s pregnant, maybe with twins.
Britain sets new record for biggest ever pass the parcel
LONDON – Britain has set a new record for the biggest ever pass the parcel, delivering over 10,000 pounds worth of toys to over 100 families during its 1,000 mile two-week tour of the UK.
The parcel, which had been created by family superstore Woolworths.co.uk, started from Liverpool and visited 10 towns and cities in England, …. Source : Britain sets new record for biggest ever pass the parcel.
Nigeria was in total ‘confusion’ when President was in “semi-comatose state”: Wikileaks
LONDON – Nigeria’s leadership was in total confusion over who was in charge earlier this year with then-President Umaru Yar’Adua was thought to be in a “semi-comatose state”, according to classified US diplomatic cables released by whistleblower website Wikileaks.
Yar’Adua, who was terminally ill, had left Nigeria in November 2009 for medical treatment in Saudi Arabia.
The … Read : Nigeria was in total ‘confusion’ when President was in “semi-comatose state”: Wikileaks.
11,051 acres of defence land occupied illegally
NEW DELHI – The Defence Ministry has admitted that approximately 11,051 acres of its 17.30 lakh acres of land across the country has been encroached or occupied illegally.
Leading the list of states where the maximum number of encroachments has taken place is Uttar Pradesh (2,949 acres), followed closely by Maharashtra (2,285 acres).
Some others states in … Read more >>>.
Bowe Bergdahl In Taliban Video
POCATELLO (GaeaTimes.com)- Talibans post new pictures of Bowe Bergdahl, the US soldier who has been held in captivity for 18 months in Afghanistan has been released on Tuesday. His captor Haji Nadeem, who is the Taliban deputy district commander in Paktika previously claimed that he has been converted to Islam and his new name …. Source article : Bowe Bergdahl In Taliban Video.
EABS students work for education of underprivileged kids
PUNE – Students of the Pune-based Europe Asia Business School (EABS) recently took part in a three-day event called “Mandi”, during which they were asked to sell products manufactured by Navnirmiti, a NGO.
Over Rs.30, 000 was raised through this initiative, with the true winner being the cause.
The proceeds collected through the event will …. Original article on Gaea Times at : EABS students work for education of underprivileged kids.
Married US teacher who got teen pupil pregnant jailed for 3 years
LONDON – A married US teacher, who got a teenage girl pregnant, has been jailed for three years.
Timothy King’s ‘glittering career’ was left in tatters after one of the girl’s friends spotted messages of a sexual nature being exchanged between them on the social networking site.
King, 32, a father-of-one who taught graphic design at a …. Source article on Gaea Times at : Married US teacher who got teen pupil pregnant jailed for 3 years.
Royal couple to get pre-marital counselling
LONDON – Before walking up the aisle, Britain’s Prince William and his fiancee Kate Middleton will meet some of the country’s most senior clerics to receive counselling on how to handle marital pressures.
The royal couple is expected to meet the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Bishop of London who will give them advice on preparing … Read more : Royal couple to get pre-marital counselling.
‘Loner’ teacher in UK jailed for lesbian affair with 15-year-old pupil
LONDON – A British teacher has been jailed for 20 months after having a lesbian affair with a teenage pupil.
English teacher Louise Yeoman in her first job had a 14-month affair with the student after initially contacting her through an Internet chat website, reports the Daily Mail.
Leeds Crown Court was told that the 29-year-old teacher …. Original article : ‘Loner’ teacher in UK jailed for lesbian affair with 15-year-old pupil.
Baloch CM denies presence of US troops or Taliban leadership in Quetta
QUETTA – Balochistan Chief Minister Nawab Aslam Raisani has dismissed foreign media reports about the presence of US troops and the Taliban leadership in Quetta, calling them false and baseless.
“There is no soldier of the American army in Quetta,” the Dawn quoted Raisani, as saying, while talking to newsmen after attending the inaugural ceremony of …. Source article : Baloch CM denies presence of US troops or Taliban leadership in Quetta.
India’s ambassador Meera Shankar frisked at US airport
WASHINGTON – Indian Ambassador to the US Meera Shankar was recently patted down by an American security agent at the Jackson – Evers International Airport in Mississippi.
The incident took place on December 4 where Shankar was about to board a flight to Baltimore after attending the Mississippi State University’s programme.
Those who witnessed the ambassador’s … Original article on : India’s ambassador Meera Shankar frisked at US airport.
Sonia Gandhi turns 65
NEW DELHI – Congress President Sonia Gandhi turned 65 on Thursday.
Union Ministers Pranab Mukherjee, Ghulam Nabi Azad, Virbhadra Singh, C P Joshi and Pradesh Congress Committee chiefs and AICC office bearers were among those who personally extended birthday greetings to her.
Among the first callers were DMK leaders including T R Baalu and Tamil Nadu Chief …. Source : Sonia Gandhi turns 65.
Indian-origin pharmacist accused of groping teen’s breast
LONDON – An Indian-origin pharmacist in UK apparently groped a teenager’s breast while checking her heartbeat.
Married father-of-two Roshan Lal, 56, allegedly took the 18-year-old into a consultation room where he lifted up her bra and ‘cupped’ her breast as he examined her with a stethoscope.
The young woman is one of four people who claim the …. Source article : Indian-origin pharmacist accused of groping teen’s breast.
Mining companies arming Maoists in India, says ACHR
NEW DELHI – Subhash Chakma, Director of the Asian Centre for Human Rights (ACHR) has alleged that the mining companies operating in the Maoist infested areas are helping and arming the rebel outfit.
At a press conference held here on Wednesday, Chakma blamed central government for not doing enough to expose the nexus between the companies … Read more >>.
Westboro Baptist Church: ‘Elizabeth Edwards Spewed Blasphemy’
WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- In what is being perceived to be a major publicity stunt, a Kansas based church has accused Elizabeth Edwards of ’spewing blasphemy’ while alleging that the estranged wife of ex-presidential candidate John Edwards did not resort to God to cure her from cancer during her six year long battle with the disease. … Read : Westboro Baptist Church: ‘Elizabeth Edwards Spewed Blasphemy’.
Kumari Fulbright Sentenced
TUCSON (GaeaTimes.com)- The court sentenced former beauty queen Kumari Fulbright to two years in prison and 6 months probation for the torture and kidnapping of her boyfriend. Last year she pleaded guilty to the charges of conspiracy to kidnap and assault on her former boyfriend Joshua Conway. The sentencing was this Thursday and …. Original article on Gaea Times at : Kumari Fulbright Sentenced.
Women staffers welcome police orders on pick-and-drop
NEW DELHI – Women employees of call centres, media organisations and corporate firms feel the Delhi Police guidelines for their employers to ensure their safety through better pick-and-drop facilities are a much needed step.
“This was much needed to ensure security while returning home late at night. It is totally the responsibility of the employer … Read more : Women staffers welcome police orders on pick-and-drop.
Assange did not commit rape, says mother
MELBOURNE – Julian Assange’s mother has said that her son is not guilty of the rape charges against him and that “massive forces” are out to get him.
Assange has been denied bail in a London court after his arrest in Britain on a Swedish warrant accusing him of sex crimes.
“Julian, rape, straight out of my …. Source : Gaea News Network.
‘I’m not gay,’ says hubby of murdered Brit-Indian woman
LONDON – The millionaire husband of murdered Brit-Indian woman Anni Dewani has denied that he is secretly gay, and that he may have dashed Anni’s dreams of starting a family due to his sexual preferences.
According to The Sun, British police have already interviewed friends and relatives over the alleged friction between the couple in … Read more »»».
2G scam: JPC demand continues to stall Parliament proceedings
NEW DELHI – The deadlock in Parliament over the 2G scam continued for the 21st working day on Friday, with the opposition remaining adamant on their demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe.
Soon after Speaker Meira Kumar made obituary references to two former MPs Meghrajji and M Rajashekara Murthy, Opposition members mainly from Bharatiya … Read : 2G scam: JPC demand continues to stall Parliament proceedings.
Nepal lifts ban on its women working in the Gulf
KATHMANDU – Nepal has reportedly lifted a ban on the country’s working women going to Gulf countries to earn their livelihood, and introduced new rules designed to protect them.
According to the BBC, the ban has been in force since 1998, when a Nepalese domestic worker who was abused in Kuwait, committed suicide, creating a national …. Source article : Nepal lifts ban on its women working in the Gulf.
Brit-Indian hubby’s alleged involvement in bride’s murder ‘unforgivable’: Anni’s sister
LONDON – Brit-Indian Anni Dewani’s sister has said that Shrien Dewani’s alleged involvement in her fatal shooting in South Africa last month was completely “unforgivable”.
Shrien was arrested on Tuesday after being charged with conspiracy to murder.
The 30-year-old faces extradition to South Africa, but has emphatically denied any involvement in his wife’s death.
“If he (Shrien) …. Read the original article : Brit-Indian hubby’s alleged involvement in bride’s murder ‘unforgivable’: Anni’s sister.
‘Low-carb beer myth’ duped Oz drinkers: Poll
MELBOURNE – A poll has revealed that the low-carb beer “myth” has duped Australian drinkers.
Almost three-quarters (71 per cent) of low-carb beer drinkers who responded to a VicHealth poll said it was a healthy alternative to full-strength beer.
A majority (59 per cent) said it was healthier than mid-strength while more (38 per cent) thought it …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Iran’s media denies reports of ’stoning to death’ woman’s release
TEHRAN – Iran’s media has denied reports that Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani, the Iranian woman who was earlier sentenced to death by stoning for alleged adultery charges, had been released.
Earlier, on Thursday, government-owned media outlets had released several photographs of Ashtiani, whose case has sparked a massive international outcry, and her son, Sajad, at their home …. Source : Iran’s media denies reports of ’stoning to death’ woman’s release.
Burma taking North Korea’s help to build secret nuclear sites: Wikileaks
LONDON – Scores of secret US diplomatic cables released by the Whistleblower website ‘Wikileaks’ have revealed that witnesses in Burma had claimed to have seen evidence of secret nuclear and missile sites being built in remote jungle areas in Burma.
The Guardian quoted a Burmese officer as saying that he had witnessed North Korean technicians … Read more »».
Afghan women still face brutal abuses, says UN report
LONDON – Afghan women still reportedly suffer horrible abuses, including forced marriages, ‘honour’ killings and are compelled somehow or the other to take the extreme step of self-immolation.
According to figures quoted in the UN report, in 57 percent of Afghan marriages one of the partners is younger than 16.
The Guardian quoted Ahmad Fahim Hakim, the … Read more >>>.
‘Jamie’s 30-Minute Meals’ cookbook breaks record in UK
LONDON – Chef Jamie Oliver’s latest cookbook, ‘Jamie’s 30-Minute Meals’ has become the UK’s fastest selling non-fiction title of all time.
His latest cookbook has sold 735,000 copies in 10 weeks, beating the previous record held by Peter Kay’s memoir, ‘The Sound of Laughter’.
In the past week, its sales were more than twice that of its …. Source article : ‘Jamie’s 30-Minute Meals’ cookbook breaks record in UK.
Oz man who raped 10-yr-old girl while driving drunk ordered to pay $18K
MELBOURNE – An Australian man has been ordered to pay 18,750 dollars in compensation for raping a 10-year-old girl almost five years ago.
The man raped the girl when she sat on his lap “unrestrained” as he drove drunk twice around a Brisbane suburban block.
Beenleigh District Court judge Ian Dearden, in a decision published, ordered the …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Russia jibes US by calling for Assange to be awarded Nobel peace prize
MOSCOW – In an apparent dig at the US, Russia has suggested that Julian Assange, founder of the whistleblower website ‘Wikileaks’, should be nominated for the Nobel peace prize.
According to the Guardian, the Kremlin has urged non-governmental organisations to seriously think about “nominating Assange as a Nobel Prize laureate”.
“Public and non-governmental organisations should … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Russia jibes US by calling for Assange to be awarded Nobel peace prize.
Obama takes to nicotine gum to kick the butt
LONDON – US President Barack Obama is working hard to get rid of his smoking habit and is chewing nicotine gum instead, said the White House.
Spokesman Robert Gibbs said he hasn’t come across any evidence of Obama smoking in probably nine months.
“This is not something that he’s proud of. He knows that it’s not good … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Obama takes to nicotine gum to kick the butt.
US woman returns 74-year overdue library book
LONDON – An American woman has been fined 2,700 dollars after she returned a library book 74 years after her husband borrowed it.
85-year-old Hazel Severson of Sacramento says a friend found a book that her late husband had borrowed from an Amador County library in 1936 while sorting through things for a garage sale, …. Source article : US woman returns 74-year overdue library book.
Frequent sex can save an unhappy marriage: Study
LONDON – An American research has suggested that regular sex can be a relationship saver for neurotic couples.
The highly neurotic, who tend to be moody, irritable and easily upset, have less happy partnerships and are more likely to divorce. But the study finds that making more love more often may solve their problems, reports the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Frequent sex can save an unhappy marriage: Study.
‘Cheated’ Anti-Taliban lashkars in Pak threaten to end support to govt in war on terror
PESHAWAR – Anti-Taliban militias in Pakistan have threatened to withdraw their support to the government and police in the war on terror if their demands are not met within ten days.
Adezai anti-Taliban lashkar chief Dilawar Khan said that the chiefs of all the three anti-Taliban lashkars had decided in a joint meeting that they would … Read more : ‘Cheated’ Anti-Taliban lashkars in Pak threaten to end support to govt in war on terror.
An American church celebrated Diwali
NEVADA – In a remarkable interfaith gesture, First Universalist Church of Norway (FUCN) in Maine (USA) celebrated Hindu festival of Diwali.
According to reports, its minister Reverend Richard Beal, in Diwali worship service on November seven, read from ancient Hindu scripture Bhagavad-Gita (Song of the Lord) and Rabindranath Tagore and said: enjoy the real Deepavali, by …. Source : An American church celebrated Diwali.
Many Indian forts, palaces at risk of disappearing
NEW DELHI – Three hundred photographs and texts of more than 60 forts of medieval and colonial India have been compiled by photographer Joginder Singh and noted conservationist Amita Baig, who says there is “a very real risk” that in another generation, these heritage structures will disappear.
The new heritage compendium, “Forts and Palaces of … Read more >>.
Former beauty queen jailed for kidnapping and torturing her ex
LONDON – A 28-year-old former beauty queen accused of orchestrating the kidnapping and torturing of her ex-beau has been sentenced to two years in prison and six years’ probation.
Kumari Fulbright, who participated in Ms Arizona in 2005, pleaded guilty last year to conspiracy to commit kidnapping and aggravated assault as part of a plea agreement … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Former beauty queen jailed for kidnapping and torturing her ex.
Columbia University professor charged with incest
LONDON – A 46-year-old Columbia University professor has been charged with incest for ‘having a sexual relationship with his daughter’.
Political science professor David Epstein allegedly bedded his daughter, now 24, for three years between 2006-2009.
Epstein, who specializes in American politics and voting rights, is said to have also exchanged twisted text messages with the girl …. Original article : Columbia University professor charged with incest.
Indian tycoons to buy ‘world’s most expensive suit’
LONDON – Indian tycoons are soon to be given the opportunity to buy the world’s most expensive clothes after an Anglo-French retailer announced the launch of an 80,000 pounds suit.
Dormeuil is launching the suit – at the same marking another milestone in India’s extraordinary economic growth and reflecting the rise of a new class of …. Original source : Indian tycoons to buy ‘world’s most expensive suit’.
ATS chief Hemant Karkare disclosed his life was under threat, claims Digvijay Singh
NEW DELHI – Congress General Secretary Digvijay Singh has said that Maharashtra ATS chief Hemant Karkare, who was gunned down by militants in the 26/11 attack, called him just hours before attack and said that his life was “blighted by constant threats” from those opposed to his probe into the Malegaon blast.
Speaking to reporters here, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ATS chief Hemant Karkare disclosed his life was under threat, claims Digvijay Singh.
Vatican helped to free British sailors held by Iran: WikiLeaks cable
LONDON – The Vatican had intervened to help gain the release of 15 British navy personnel detained by Iran in 2007, according to a classified U.S. diplomatic cable released by whistleblower website Wikileaks.
U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission to the Vatican, Julieta Noyes, made the assertion in a cable -dated June 26, 2009- intended to …. Read the original article : Vatican helped to free British sailors held by Iran: WikiLeaks cable.
China busts transnational prostitution ring in Beijing
BEIJING – Chinese police have reportedly cracked a transnational prostitution ring by detaining 31 suspects, including eight European prostitutes.
Zi Xiangdong, from the Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau, said that the gang was headed by a European man in his 50s with the alias surname Gu.
He said that the gang included eight European prostitutes, 10 Chinese …. Original source : China busts transnational prostitution ring in Beijing.
Ready to face CBI to prove innocence, says A Raja
CHENNAI – Former Telecom Minister A. Raja has said he will cooperate with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to prove his innocence in the 2G scam.
” I will fully cooperate with the CBI. Whatever be the procedure, I have to comply with it,” Raja told reporters here.
“No one is above scrutiny. I am … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ready to face CBI to prove innocence, says A Raja.
Pope wanted Muslim-dominated Turkey to be out of EU: Wikileaks
VATICAN CITY – Secret US diplomatic cables released by the whistleblower website ‘Wikileaks’ have revealed that Pope Benedict XVI is responsible for the Vatican’s growing hostility towards Turkey, the Muslim state, joining the European Union (EU).
The Guardian quoted the cables as saying that in 2004, Cardinal Ratzinger, now Pope Benedict XVI, was the leading … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pope wanted Muslim-dominated Turkey to be out of EU: Wikileaks.
‘Sex killer’ Russell Williams officially stripped of Canadian military rank
OTTAWA – Russell Williams, the former colonel who is serving his life sentence for sexually assaulting and murdering two women, has been officially expelled from the Canadian Forces.
According to the Globe and Mail, Williams was at the helm of Canada’s largest air force base, CFB Trenton, when he had brutally murdered two women, one of …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Six US tanks, three NATO tankers destroyed in Afghanistan, claims Taliban website
ISLAMABAD – Six US tanks were destroyed by IED blasts in Karez-e-Safid and Tangyano areas of Afghanistan, and three NATO tankers were destroyed in Herat, according to reports.
Reports from Nawzad district said that six American tanks were destroyed by IED blasts in Karez-e-Safid and Tangyano areas since yesterday, and that the wreckage of the tanks … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Six US tanks, three NATO tankers destroyed in Afghanistan, claims Taliban website.
Pak has 43 terrorist camps, including 22 in occupied Kashmir: Indian Army chief
NEW DELHI – There are 43 terrorist camps in Pakistan, 22 of which are located in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, the then Indian Chief of Army Staff, General Deepak Kapoor, told US President Barack Obama’s the then National Security Advisor (NSA), James Jones in 2009, a diplomatic cable unveiled by whistle-blower website WikiLeaks has revealed.
According to the …. Read the original article : Pak has 43 terrorist camps, including 22 in occupied Kashmir: Indian Army chief.
‘UK’s oldest cat’ to celebrate her 24th b’day
LONDON – Blackie the cat, believed to be Britain’s oldest moggie, is all set to celebrate her 24th birthday in January.
Quentin Shaw, 49, has owned the long-haired OA-Puss since 1987.
Incredibly she has even outlived three of her own litters along the way.
“I’ve had her since she was just a few weeks old,” the Sun quoted … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘UK’s oldest cat’ to celebrate her 24th b’day.
‘Infatuated’ female officer in UK had sex with prisoner in his cell
LONDON – A UK female prison officer has been sentenced to two years in prison for having a sexual relationship with a prisoner.
Donna Stanton, 28, began a sexual relationship with heroin addict Eric Fitzgerald while he was serving the last few months of a seven-year sentence at Bedford prison.
Luton Crown Court heard how she smuggled … Read : ‘Infatuated’ female officer in UK had sex with prisoner in his cell.
Kiwi women ’spend and stress more over Christmas gifts’
WELLINGTON – A new survey in New Zealand has shown that women tend to spend more on Christmas gifts and feel more stressed about the holiday season than men.
The latest Christmas poll by AMP Capital Shopping Centres, which owns The Palms shopping mall, found 23 per cent of respondents reported being more stressed than last … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Kiwi women ’spend and stress more over Christmas gifts’.
Varanasi blast: Death toll rises to two
VARANASI – The death toll in the Varanasi bomb blast has risen to two with another victim being declared dead this morning.
Sixty-five year old Phoolmati, who was present at the Sheetla Ghat on December 7, had sustained severe head injuries and succumbed to death.
One-and-a-half-year old girl Swastika was the first casualty of the blast … Read more >>>.
Pak to get six more F-16 aircraft from US on Dec 13
LAHORE – Six new F-16 C/D Block 52 high-tech aircraft will reportedly arrive in Pakistan from the United States on December 13, after which the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) will have a total of 18 such aircraft.
In 2005-06, Pakistan had signed a contract with the US government for the acquisition of 18 F-16 C/D Block … Original article on : Pak to get six more F-16 aircraft from US on Dec 13.
Rights groups slam Iranian TV over ‘death by stoning’ woman’s fake confession at home
TEHRAN – Human rights campaigners have reportedly condemned an Iranian television channel for airing a programme projecting Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani, the woman sentenced to death by stoning, as apparently discussing her role in the murder of her husband.
“International standards for fair trial, to which Iran is a state party, guarantee the right not to be …. Read the original article : here.
Islamabad accuses India of violating Pak air space 20 times in 2010
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has claimed that Indian Air Force aircraft violated its air space twenty times in the year 2010, and 182 times since November 2007.
In response to a recent statement by the Indian Defence Minister regarding airspace violations by Pakistan, the Foreign Office spokesman termed them as “baseless”, the Daily Times reports.
“We have … Original source on Gaea Times at : Islamabad accuses India of violating Pak air space 20 times in 2010.
Does ‘coded message in Bible point to Qaeda’s nuclear weapon hideout’?
WASHINGTON – Author Michael Drosnin believes that there are secret, coded messages in the Bible that indicate that Al Qaeda has nuclear weapons in a secret hiding place.
Drosnin took out a full page ad in the New York Times today that asks, “Why Won’t the White House Let the President Read This Letter?” Under …. Original source : Does ‘coded message in Bible point to Qaeda’s nuclear weapon hideout’?.
South Korea to conduct maritime firing drills
SEOUL – The South Korean military is to carry out firing exercises around the country’s three coastlines, but would avoid the islands close to the disputed maritime border with the North, officials were quoted as saying Sunday by a news report.
The drills were planned for Dec 13 to 17 all around the South’s …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Minneapolis Airport Shut For Snowstorm
MINNEAPOLIS (GaeaTimes.com)- The incessant snowfall and accompanying blizzard forced the authorities to shut down operations at the Minneapolis Airport on Sunday and this led to a huge number of flight cancellations. The passengers were stranded at the airport and the weather office also did not give any positive news. The airport cleaning crew simply …. Original article : Minneapolis Airport Shut For Snowstorm.
Brit-Indian honeymooner denies link to 2007 killing in South Africa
LONDON – Shrien Dewani, the Brit-Indian millionaire who has been arrested on suspicion of having his wife killed during their honeymoon in Cape Town, has denied doubts raised by South Africa’s police chief that he was involved in another murder three years back.
South African national commissioner general Bheki Cele reportedly said police were investigating … Read : Brit-Indian honeymooner denies link to 2007 killing in South Africa.
Dozens of suspected Afghan insurgents killed in latest NATO operations
KABUL – At least 40 suspected insurgents were killed in a spate of rare wintertime clashes in Afghanistan, including an airstrike which killed 25 people, NATO officials said.
NATO’s statement, issued late Saturday, provided few details about the latest deadly military operations that preceded the airstrike in the Nari district of Konar province.
An air weapons …. Source : Gaea News Network.
Home Secretary pressed to halt anti-Muslim US preacher’s visit to UK
LONDON – UK Home Secretary Theresa May is reportedly under immense pressure to halt a visit by anti-Muslim US preacher Terry Jones’, who had threatened to burn copies of the Koran on the anniversary of 9/11 this year, to Britain after far-right activists said he had agreed to address them at a demonstration about “the … Original article on : Home Secretary pressed to halt anti-Muslim US preacher’s visit to UK.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governor to hold talks with Pak Taliban for VC’s release
PESHAWAR – The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Government has fully authorised KP Governor Awais Ahmed Ghani to hold talks with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) for safe release of Islamia College University Vice Chancellor Ajmal Khan, who is a cousin of the Awami National Party (ANP) chief, Asfandyar Wali Khan.
ANP sources revealed the KP government had sought the … Read more »»».
Embarrassed Congress distances itself from Digvijay Singh’s remarks on Karkare
New Delhi, Dec.11/12 (ANI): An embarrassed Congress has chosen to distance itself from party general secretary Digvijay Singh’s controversial comments that he had a conversation with former Mumbai Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) chief Hemant Karkare shortly before he was killed by terrorists on 26/11.
Karkare had apparently told Singh that he feared for his safety from … Original article on : Embarrassed Congress distances itself from Digvijay Singh’s remarks on Karkare.
Stockholm twin blasts leave one dead, two injured
STOCKHOLM – At least one person was killed and two others were injured in twin explosion in central Stockholm in Sweden on Saturday, causing panic among Christmas shoppers.
The Guardian quoted a Swedish news agency as saying that it had received an email warning, ahead of the explosions, in which a threat made against Sweden and … Read more : Stockholm twin blasts leave one dead, two injured.
Huge cache of arms, explosives seized in West Bengal
WEST MIDNAPORE/ PURULIA – The paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and West Bengal police have seized a huge cache of arms and explosives from Maoist infested Jhargram area in West Midnapore District.
Two SVBL guns, one Bulgarian 8 mm pistol, a country made pistol and a large number of explosives were seized during the operation.
“The … Original article on : Huge cache of arms, explosives seized in West Bengal.
Obama tells Turkish president that WikiLeaks release are ‘deplorable’
WASHINGTON – U.S. President Barack Obama has offered his strongest condemnation yet of whistle blowing web site WikiLeaks’ “deplorable” documents dump.
In a call to Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Obama “expressed his regrets for the deplorable action by WikiLeaks.
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, both leaders agreed the leaks will not influence or disrupt [..] Read the original article: here.
Fake WikiLeaks: Pakistan news agency editor sacked
ISLAMABAD – Siddique Sajid, editor of Pakistan’s Online news agency, has been sacked after it published a fake WikiLeaks report that New Delhi allegedly played a role in destabilizing the country’s Balochistan province.
Online editor-in-chief Mohsin J. Baig, soon upon his return from Turkey where he had accompanied Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani during his … Read : Fake WikiLeaks: Pakistan news agency editor sacked.
WikiLeaks ‘rape’ victims had hidden agendas, claims Assange’s lawyer
LONDON – In an exclusive interview, the lawyer of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has said that he had seen secret police documents that prove his client is innocent of rape claims made against him by two Swedish women.
Bjorn Hurtig, who is representing Assange in Sweden, said the papers, which form part of the official Swedish … Read more >>>.
Putin shows off his musical prowess at charity event
LONDON – It seems there is no end to Vladimir Putin’s talents.
The Russian Prime Minister, already known as an accomplished fighter-jet pilot and Siberian tiger-hunter, sprang a surprise last week with his rendition of ‘Blueberry Hill’ at a charity event in St Petersburg.
On Friday, the 58-year-old former KGB chief also stunned an audience that included …. Source : Putin shows off his musical prowess at charity event.
Wills, Kate ‘brimming with happiness’ in engagement pics
LONDON – Prince William and Kate Middleton look very much in love in official photos released to mark their engagement.
Celebrated fashion photographer Mario Testino, who took the pics, described the couple as “brimming with happiness” during the photo shoot in the Council Chamber in the State Apartment in St James’s Palace.
The two portraits, one formal …. Original source : Wills, Kate ‘brimming with happiness’ in engagement pics.
Bernard Madoff’s Son Dead
NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- Mark Madoff, the son of Bernard Madoff, who was arrested two years ago on charges of security fraud was found dead at his home on Saturday. The law enforcement officials say that he apparently hanged himself in his condo in Manhattan’s SoHo neighborhood. Martin Flumenbaum, the attorney of his family said …. Source : Bernard Madoff’s Son Dead.
7.6-bn-dollar TAPI gas pipeline accord inked
ASHGABAT – Pakistan has joined India, Turkmenistan and Afghanistan in signing the long awaited over 7.6-billion-dollar gas pipeline project to help meet its sharply rising industrial and domestic demands.
Almost 15 years after the project was envisioned, Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari, Afghan President Hamid Karzai, Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and Indian Petroleum Minister Murli Deora … Read : 7.6-bn-dollar TAPI gas pipeline accord inked.
UK’s top tax official’s ???6K 4-night stay at Indian hotel for 30min speech
LONDON – Britain’s top tax official, who visited India to attend a conference and deliver a speech lasting just half an hour, enjoyed a four-night stay in a luxury hotel- at a cost of thousands of pounds to the taxpayer.
Dave Hartnett, Permanent Secretary for Tax at Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, flew business … Read more »»».
‘We want to ensure that 26/11 is not repeated,’ says Merkel
Berlin, Dec.11/12 (ANI): German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday, in no uncertain terms, castigated Pakistan for using terror as a tool to fulfill its political objectives.
Addressing a joint press conference with visiting Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Merkel said Germany would extend its fullest cooperation to India in battling militancy.
“India is suffering as a consequence …. Original article on Gaea Times at : ‘We want to ensure that 26/11 is not repeated,’ says Merkel.
No trust deficit between India, Germany on high technology transfer: Merkel
BERLIN – German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Saturday said there was no trust deficit between Germany and India on the issue of high technology transfer.
Responding to a question from this reporter during a joint press interaction with visiting Indian Prime Minister … Read : No trust deficit between India, Germany on high technology transfer: Merkel.
India to host Year of Germany in 2011 to mark 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties
BERLIN – Germany will organize a Year of Germany in India beginning September 2011 to mark the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, said visiting Indian Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Saturday.
India … Read more : India to host Year of Germany in 2011 to mark 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties.