Breaking News – Weekly Newsletter for December 20-27, 2010

Wen’s speech in parliament ‘alarm bells’ to Pak’s enemies: Malik

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Interior Minister Rehman Malik has described Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao’s speech to the joint sitting of the country’s parliament as a strong message to the enemies of Pakistan.

Addressing the media after the speech, Malik said that it reflected the emotional attachment of the Chinese government with the government and people of Pakistan.

He …. Original source  : Wen’s speech in parliament ‘alarm bells’ to Pak’s enemies: Malik.

Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis teaches Gita and Upanishads

NEVADA – Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis (Indiana, USA) has been reportedly teaching ancient Hindu scriptures Bhagavad-Gita and Upanishads.

It has also reportedly been offering Hinduism class; teaching its origins, distinctive beliefs, practices and contemporary status.

Well known Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, described Seminary’s action as “a step in the … Read more »».

Winter Solstice Coincides With Lunar Eclipse

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- NASA experts say that after 456 years Lunar Eclipse and Winter Solstice are going to coincide with each other this year. The sky-gazers are all geared up to see the rare occasion which is scheduled to take place, early Tuesday. The experts say that Winter Solstice is the shortest day in …. Source  : Winter Solstice Coincides With Lunar Eclipse.

Heathrow Airport To Resume Operation

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM (GaeaTimes.com)- London’s Heathrow Airport remained largely shut on Sunday owing to the unfavorable weather conditions that has been prevailing in United Kingdom for the last few days. The heavy snowfall along with blizzards forced authorities to terminate the flight operation on Sunday with only a limited number of flights landing in … Read more »».

Now, take a lunch break to get sterilized in secret!

LONDON – Women are these days opting for secret ‘lunch hour breaks’, where instead of the usual lunch, they get themselves sterilization appointments.

A private clinic claims it is the first in the country to offer a “walk in – walk out” ten minute procedure which permanently renders a woman infertile, without leaving any scars.

“Women can …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Julian Assange has groupie sex fan following like that of Mick Jagger

MELBOURNE – WikiLeaks founder’s former colleague has claimed that Julian Assange had a groupie following like that of Rolling Stones frontman and lothario Mick Jagger.

The description of Assange’s attraction to women came as Britain’s Mail on Sunday claims the two women who say they were sexually assaulted by the WikiLeaks editor would never have complained … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Julian Assange has groupie sex fan following like that of Mick Jagger.

Tanzanian prosecutor investigating BAE “dirty deal”‘feared for life’: Wikileaks

DODOMA – Edward Hoseah, the Tanzanian prosecutor investigating a “dirty deal” by BAE to sell Tanzania an overpriced radar system, told US diplomats that “his life may be in danger,” according to secret US diplomatic cables released by the whistleblower website … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tanzanian prosecutor investigating BAE “dirty deal” ‘feared for life’: Wikileaks.

Manmohan Singh asks Pakistan to stop exporting terror

BURARI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Monday said friendly relations with Pakistan is possible only when it stops anti-India activities on its soil.

Addressing the Congress plenary session at Burari in northwest Delhi, Dr. Singh said: “We want friendly relations with Pakistan …. Read the original article  : Manmohan Singh asks Pakistan to stop exporting terror.

Manmohan Singh sees end-March inflation at 5.5 percent

BURARI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Monday said that the rate of inflation would be curbed by early next year to settle at 5.5 percent.

Addressing the Congress plenary session at Burari in northwest Delhi, Dr. Singh said: “We made all efforts … Read more : Manmohan Singh sees end-March inflation at 5.5 percent.

Zardari extends hand of friendship to Nawaz for Pak’s development

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has urged Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) chief Nawaz Sharif to shun his party’s differences with the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP).

In a letter, written in response to a letter sent by Nawaz on November 10, Zardari …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Zardari extends hand of friendship to Nawaz for Pak’s development.

‘Egyptian President Mubarak ‘turned down’ black-market nuclear weapons deal’

CAIRO – Maged Abdelaziz, Egypt’s ambassador to the UN said that the country’s President Hosni Mubarak had ‘turned down’ a black-market nuclear weapons deal following the collapse of the Soviet Union, according to secret US diplomatic cables released by Wikileaks.

Egypt was reportedly …. Read the original article  : ‘Egyptian President Mubarak ‘turned down’ black-market nuclear weapons deal’.

Oz teacher banned for telling kids to ‘f- off and go home’

BRISBANE – A former Queensland teacher has been banned from reapplying for teaching registration for at least a year after he was found misbehaving with his students.

According to evidence presented to a tribunal, David Doherty, of Wondal told Year Three students they should “f— off and … Read more »».

Wills, Kate wedding memorabilia up for grabs, but sans couple’s pics on it

LONDON – The official wedding memorabilia of the royal couple Prince William and Kate Middleton is up for grabs but without the couple’s faces on it.

The plate, tankard and pillbox are decorated with an entwined “C” and “W” plus doves, white ribbons and hearts in silver, gold and grey, …. Original source  : Wills, Kate wedding memorabilia up for grabs, but sans couple’s pics on it.

‘Yemen’s radioactive products were easy al-Qaeda targets’: Wikileaks

SANA’A – A senior Yemeni government official had told US diplomats that poor security at the country’s main store of radioactive products could give terrorists an easy access to dangerous materials, according to the whistleblower website ‘Wikileaks’.

The Guardian quoted the official as saying … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Yemen’s radioactive products were easy al-Qaeda targets’: Wikileaks.

Lunar Eclipse 2010 Gets Attention

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- Though the sky-gazers are all geared up to witness the total Lunar Eclipse 2010 on early Tuesday, National Weather Service reported that clouds might hamper the visibility this time. The eclipse is set to begin at 12:33 a.m. but sadly the weather forecast states that there might be shower on Monday …. Source article  : Lunar Eclipse 2010 Gets Attention.

Premier Wen’s visits to India, Pakistan produced strategic, fruitful results: Chinese FM

BEIJING – Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said on Sunday that Premier Wen Jiabao’s visits to India and Pakistan from Dec. 15 to Dec. 19 were fruitful and successful with rich achievements.

Yang, who accompanied Wen on his visits, told reporters … Read : Premier Wen’s visits to India, Pakistan produced strategic, fruitful results: Chinese FM.

Somali pirate ranked fourth richest in global shipping business

LONDON – A Somali pirate has been ranked alongside a billionaire trade magnate and the Chinese transport minister as among the most powerful people in shipping.

The Lloyd’s List ranking of the 100 top people in the global shipping business is one of the most respected sources in …. Source  : Somali pirate ranked fourth richest in global shipping business.

‘Blame-game’ over CIA’s Pak station chief leak to harm ‘fragile democracy’ Pak: Kerry

WASHINGTON – US Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman, John Kerry, has rejected the claims that the pull out of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)’s station chief from Pakistan was a ‘major setback’, and called for an end to heaping blame on Islamabad for the development.

“I don’t believe … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Blame-game’ over CIA’s Pak station chief leak to harm ‘fragile democracy’ Pak: Kerry.

Biden says “high-tech terrorist” Assange to face prosecution in America

LONDON – Terming Wikileaks founder Julian Assange a “high-tech terrorist”, US Vice President Joe Biden has said that the journalist is facing prosecution in America for leaking secret cables.

The Telegraph quoted Biden as saying that officials in the US Justice Department … Read more >>>.

South Korea starts artillery exercises

SEOUL – South Korea’s armed forces Monday began a live-fire artillery exercise on an island near the disputed maritime border despite threats of retaliation from North Korea, a media report said.

A defence ministry spokesman said the drills would last less than two hours, South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency reported.
An official from South Korea’s … Read more >>.

Pak successfully test fires ‘Ghauri Hataf-V’ ballistic missile

RAWALPINDI – Pakistan has successfully test-fired its ballistic missile- Ghauri Hataf-V.

A spokesman for the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that the missile is capable of carrying all kinds of warheads, Geo News reported.

The test-firing of Ghauri Hataf-V, which has a range of 1300 kilometers, was …. Read the original article  : Pak successfully test fires ‘Ghauri Hataf-V’ ballistic missile.

‘China committed to building two more units at Pak’s Chashma Nuclear Plant’

ISLAMABAD – China is committed to construct Unit no.3 and Unit no.4 of the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant (CHASNUPP) in Pakistan, Board of Investment (BoI) Chairman Saleem Mandviwala has said.

Addressing a press conference, Mandviwala said that the Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) worth 10 billion dollars had been signed with China …. Source  : ‘China committed to building two more units at Pak’s Chashma Nuclear Plant’.

Al-Qaida’s latest threat to US: poisoning food in hotels, restaurants over single weekend

WASHINGTON – The latest Al-Qaida terror threat to the United States reportedly involves the possible use of poisons aimed at food in hotels and restaurants over a single weekend.

According to CBS News, Department of Homeland Security officials, along with members of the Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug … Read more »».

Author of ‘Paedophile’s Guide to Love and Pleasure’ arrested

NEW YORK – The author of the guidebook ‘Paedophile’s Guide to Love and Pleasure: A Child-Lover’s Code of Conduct’ has been arrested.

Phillip R. Greaves, who was detained in Colorado and will be extradited to Florida, was arrested on obscenity charges for the …. Read the original article  : Author of ‘Paedophile’s Guide to Love and Pleasure’ arrested.

Indian-origin airhostess jailed for smuggling 250K pounds of cocaine into UK

LONDON – An Indian-origin airhostess, who worked for Air Canada, has been jailed for 8 years after she was found guilty of smuggling 250,000 pounds worth of cocaine into Britain via Heathrow.

Mandeep Shahi, 27, took advantage of the lax security to smuggle four kilos of the drug on board … Original source on Gaea Times at : Indian-origin airhostess jailed for smuggling 250K pounds of cocaine into UK.

A quick look at India’s 2010 art gallery (To go with Art: 2010 in Retrospect)

NEW DELHI – Here’s a look at what made news in Indian art in 2010:
– Anish Kapoor Retrospective at National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), Mehboob Studio (Delhi, Mumbai)

– Artiger: Art for Tiger (Delhi)
– Arpita Singh’s ‘Wish Dream’ sold for Rs.9.6 crore or $2 million (Online auction)
– Exhibition of Famous Chinese …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : A quick look at India’s 2010 art gallery (To go with Art: 2010 in Retrospect).

New Year Greetings 2011: Hottest Trend On Internet

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- A brand new year is all set to start, and therefore, people from all over the world have already started searching for the best of the e-cards, quotes, sms, wishes and other e-goodies, to bring a smile on the faces of their beloved ones and wish them luck and prosperity … Read this article on Gaea Times at : New Year Greetings 2011: Hottest Trend On Internet.

North Korea says South’s “childish play with fire not worth responding to”

PYONGYANG – North Korea has said that it “was not worth reacting” to the latest “military provocation” by South Korea.

Air raid bunkers in Yeonpyeong shook during the live-fire artillery exercise, which went on for just over 90 minutes, but the North Korean guns that had shelled the island after a similar drill last month …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : North Korea says South’s “childish play with fire not worth responding to”.

CBI questions Nira Radia in 2G scam case

NEW DELHI – Corporate lobbyist Nira Radia was questioned by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday in connection with the 2G spectrum scam.

Official sources said a team of CBI reached Radia’s farm house at Chhattarpur area at around 10 am to question her on several issues including her alleged involvement in the … Read more : CBI questions Nira Radia in 2G scam case.

Hindus and Jews ask upcoming Hungarian EU Presidency to end European Roma apartheid

NEVADA – Hindus and Jews have asked the Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU), starting January one, to work on ending European Roma (Gypsy) apartheid.

Well known Hindu statesman Rajan Zed and Rabbi Jonathan B. Freirich, prominent Jewish leader in Nevada and California in USA, in a statement in Nevada today, said … Read more : Hindus and Jews ask upcoming Hungarian EU Presidency to end European Roma apartheid.

Pope accepts “humiliation” on abuse of minors by priests

NEVADA – His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, while exchanging Christmas greetings with Roman Curia in Vatican City on December 20, reportedly accepted humiliation over abuse of minors by priests and added that they were aware of the gravity of this sin and their responsibility.

As given on The Holy See website, Pope Benedict described abuse of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pope accepts “humiliation” on abuse of minors by priests.

Mum-of-two in UK jailed after being caught in bed with 14-yr-old lover

LONDON – A mother-of-two in Britain has been sentenced to do three years of jail time after she was caught naked in bed with her 14-year-old schoolboy lover.

Susanne Divers, 26, had befriended the boy after she met him at a party, and they began an affair that lasted more than a month.

The boy was so …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mum-of-two in UK jailed after being caught in bed with 14-yr-old lover.

Nevada’s Buddhist Center honors Hindu statesman Rajan Zed

NEVADA – In a remarkable interfaith gesture, well known Hindu statesman Rajan Zed was welcomed in Padma Rigdzin Ling Buddhist Center in Nevada (USA).

Venerable Lama Jigme Namgyal Rinpoche, leader of the Center, honored Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, for his interfaith work and presented him with a “blessed khata” (traditional ceremonial …. Read the original article  : Nevada’s Buddhist Center honors Hindu statesman Rajan Zed.

UK govt’s plan to block Internet porn ‘not possible’

LONDON – A plan by the British government to block Internet pornography at source has been deemed as not possible by experts.

According to the Sunday Times, Culture Minister Ed Vaizey revealed the plan to cut off access to pornographic material during an interview, and the government is calling a meeting with ISPs to discuss the …. Source  : UK govt’s plan to block Internet porn ‘not possible’.

Catholics to continue dialogue with Hindus-Muslims-Protestants-Buddhists- Jews in Nevada

NEVADA – Catholics in northern Nevada (USA) want to continue the annual dialogue tradition with Jews-Muslims-Protestants-Buddhists-Hindus next year also in Sparks.

According to Father Charles T. Durante, Pastor of Saint Teresa of Avila Catholic Church of Carson City, it will be held on January eight next in two sessions among leaders of Muslim, Protestant, Hindu, Buddhist … Read : Catholics to continue dialogue with Hindus-Muslims-Protestants-Buddhists- Jews in Nevada.

Indian Army Chief VK Singh to be honoured in Nepal

KATHMANDU – Indian Army Chief General VK Singh, who is in Kathmandu on a four-day official visit to Nepal, will be decorated with the honorary rank of General of the Nepal Army.

General Singh will be conferred the honorary rank tomorrow by President Ram Baran Yadav. . This is a reciprocal arrangement in practice between the … Read : Indian Army Chief VK Singh to be honoured in Nepal.

Syria believed Israel was behind sniper killing of President’s security aide: WikiLeaks

LONDON – Syria believed that Israelis were “the most obvious suspects” in the assassination of President Bashar al-Assad’s top security aide in August 2008, according to a classified US diplomatic cable released by Wikileaks.

Brigadier General Muhammad Sulayman was assassinated by a sniper late on the evening of August 1 in the coastal city of Tartous.

A …. Source  : Syria believed Israel was behind sniper killing of President’s security aide: WikiLeaks.

Pakistan test-fires 1,300 km missile

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Tuesday successfully test-fired the nuclear capable Ghauri Hatf-V missile that has a range of 1,300 km, an official statement said.

The medium-range missile can carry a variety of warheads, an Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) statement said.
The missile was test fired at an unknown location.
President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister … Read more >>.

Kazakh Government launches 80 new major industrial projects

ASTANA – A total of 80 new industrial projects will be launched by the Kazakh government today – marking the completion of the initial phase of the country’s Programme of Accelerated Industrial and Innovative Development (PAIID) for 2010-2014.

Kazakhstan’s Prime …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Kazakh Government launches 80 new major industrial projects.

Japanese scientists create ‘world’s hardest artificial diamond’

LONDON – Japanese scientists have successfully synthesised what is believed to be the world’s hardest artificial diamond.

It was created by a team of researchers at Ehime University.

The cylindrical-shaped diamond – called the Hime, Japanese for princess – was developed as part of a … Read more »»».

Former sex worker wins literary prize in Thailand

BANGKOK – A former sex worker has won first prize in a Thai literary contest for her book about her life in Thailand, Hong Kong and Japan, media reports said Wednesday.

Thanadda Sawangduean, 42, won the women writers’ Chommanard Book Prize for her recently published autobiography “I am Eri: My Experience Overseas”, an account of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Former sex worker wins literary prize in Thailand.

2010 Census Results Declared

SAN FRANSISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- The Census Board of the United States of America, has declared the 2010 Census Results. These statistics have once again determined the current population trend of the nation. The overall result shows that United States have been through a population increase of only 9.7% as compared to 13.2% in 2000.

According to …. Original source  : 2010 Census Results Declared.

Christmas Greetings And Gift Options

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- Christmas is a time when people reunite with friends and near and dear ones and spend some festive time amidst happiness. This is also a time to send greetings and gifts to the loved ones and the options are aplenty. After the mass penetration of the cellphone and world wide … Read more : Christmas Greetings And Gift Options.

Iraqi donkey in centre of three-way custody battle

WASHINGTON – A donkey in Baghdad is in the centre of a custody battle involving a marine, now back in the US, a sheikh and an Iraqi family that has demanded $30,000 to give him up.

Affectionately called Smoke, the donkey wandered onto a US military base in Baghdad two years ago and won the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Iraqi private security firms operate “mafia” to raise their “outrageous prices”: Wikileaks

BAGHDAD – The whistleblower website ‘Wikileaks’ has revealed in secret US diplomatic cables that the Halliburton oil field’s senior executive in Iraq had accused private security companies of operating a “mafia” to increase their “outrageous prices”.

According to the Guardian, the confidential document written by a senior diplomat in the US’s Basra office discloses tensions … Original article on : Iraqi private security firms operate “mafia” to raise their “outrageous prices”: Wikileaks.

Three more people abducted by “government agencies” in Balochistan

QUETTA – State functionaries allegedly whisked away three people, including a human rights activist, in two separate incidents near Pasni and coastal highway Ormara in Pakistani province of Balochistan.

According to a press released issued by HRCP’s Balochistan chapter, “government agents” abducted human rights activist Siddique Eido from Pasni on Tuesday.

“Eido was returning from a court …. Source article  : Three more people abducted by “government agencies” in Balochistan.

US teen who sexually assaulted girls, drank blood claims he was a vampire

LONDON – A teenager in the US, who claims he was a vampire before sexually assaulting girls and drinking their blood, has been arrested.

Matthew Lovrine, 17, who reportedly bragged about cutting his victims with razor blades, is now facing a string of charges after being arrested at Horlick High School, in Racine, Wisconsin on December … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US teen who sexually assaulted girls, drank blood claims he was a vampire.

Spiritual healing ‘helps’ woman paralysed for 23yrs walk again

LONDON – A woman, who became paralysed from the waist down after an accident, has after 23-years walked again following a visit to a British spiritual healer.

Delia Knox, 46, became paralysed after a drink driver hit the car she was a passenger in on Christmas Day in 1987, and after she lost all feeling in …. Original article  : Spiritual healing ‘helps’ woman paralysed for 23yrs walk again.

Brit teacher forced to quit after bombarding pupil with romantic texts

LONDON – A male teacher in Britain has been forced to quit his job at a private girls’ school after he bombarded a pupil with romantic emails and texts.

Darren Holmes, who earned 9,500-pounds-a-year teaching at Sheffield High School, is said to have developed an “intense and romantic relationship” with the girl.

The Professional Conduct Committee of … Read more >>>.

UFO seekers flock to French village, locals not amused

LONDON – A village in France with a population of just 189 residents is overflowing with UFO enthusiasts who believe that when the world comes to an end, a few lucky humans will be whisked away by the extraterrestrials from there.

Bugarach is a village in the Aude region, southwestern France, and sits at the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : UFO seekers flock to French village, locals not amused.

U.S. citizens ‘more likely to die on Christmas Day’

LONDON – U.S. citizens are more likely to die on Christmas Day than any other time of the year, according to a new study.

Analysis of U.S. death certificates between 1979 and 2004 found an extra 42,325 natural deaths in the two weeks starting with Christmas above the usual seasonal winter increase, reports the Daily Mail.

Researchers … Read more >>>.

Malay Indians need to have a separate TV channel, says HINDRAF leader

KUALA LUMPUR – Human Rights Party secretary-general P. Uthayakumar has appealed to the Malaysian Government to create a separate television channel for the Maly Indian community.

He said that the programming of the channel should be similar to what exists on Singapore’s Vasantham channel.

The Malaysia Nanban and The Star further quoted Uthayakumar, as saying that he …. Source  : Malay Indians need to have a separate TV channel, says HINDRAF leader.

CIA launches ‘task force’ to assess impact of U.S. diplomatic cables’ leak by WikiLeaks

LONDON – The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has reportedly launched a task force to assess the impact of thousands of secret U.S. diplomatic cables and military files exposed by the whistleblower website ‘Wikileaks’.

According to the Washington Post, the panel is officially called the WikiLeaks Task Force, and is focusing on the immediate impact of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bangladeshi govt “death squad” trained by UK counter-terrorism officers: Wikileaks

LONDON – Secret US diplomatic cables released by the whistleblower website ‘Wikileaks’ have revealed that British officers have been training Rapid Action Battalion(RAB), a paramilitary force accused by human rights organisations of being a “government death squad” responsible for hundreds of extra-judicial killings in Bangladesh in recent years.

The Guardian quoted one of the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Bangladeshi govt “death squad” trained by UK counter-terrorism officers: Wikileaks.

How ‘Rudolf’ became the ‘Red-Nosed Reindeer’

WASHINGTON – It’s a Christmas favourite with everyone – the song ‘Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer’ first came about as a publicity gimmick.

The Montgomery Ward department store, in 1939, asked one of its copywriters, 34-year-old Robert L. May, to create a story that could be given away to customers on Christmas, as a promotional gimmick.

The decision … Read this article on Gaea Times at : How ‘Rudolf’ became the ‘Red-Nosed Reindeer’.

New Coast Guard stations in Lakshadweep to keep pirates at bay

NEW DELHI – To bolster coastal security and keep pirates at bay, India will open two Coast Guard establishments in Lakshadweep on Friday.

Increasing incidents of piracy very near to Lakshadweep in recent times have added a whole new dimension to threat perception in the region.

Defence Minister AK Antony will be visiting Lakshadweep on Friday …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New Coast Guard stations in Lakshadweep to keep pirates at bay.

Fritzl to get extra hour in bed and roast chicken dinner on Christmas Day

LONDON – Cellar monster Josef Fritzl will be treated to an extra hour in bed and a meal of roast chicken on Christmas Day.

Meanwhile, his daughter, whom he raped for 24 years, will celebrate the holiday with her mother and six incest children 150 miles away, reports the Daily Mail.

Elisabeth Fritzl has invited her mother …. Original article  : Fritzl to get extra hour in bed and roast chicken dinner on Christmas Day.

Haneef’s lawyer silent on ‘$1m Oz Govt compensation’ Indian media report claim

CANBERRA – The lawyer of Mohamed Haneef, the Indian-origin doctor who was wrongly arrested over suspicion of involvement in the 2007 Glasgow International Airport terrorist attack, has refused to confirm that he had received a million dollars in compensation as was reportedly claimed by a section of the Indian media yesterday.

It was reported … Original article on : Haneef’s lawyer silent on ‘$1m Oz Govt compensation’ Indian media report claim.

US fines PPG’s Chinese subsidiary for illegal Pakistan nuclear exports

WASHINGTON – The United States has fined the Chinese subsidiary of PPG Industries Inc. nearly four million dollars for illegally exporting high-performance coatings to a nuclear reactor in Pakistan.

The company was accused of “illegal export, re-export and/or transshipment of high-performance coatings from the United States to the Chashma 2 Nuclear Power Plant in Pakistan via …. Original article  : US fines PPG’s Chinese subsidiary for illegal Pakistan nuclear exports.

Russia ‘leads the world in divorce’

NEW YORK – Marital relationships in Russia seem to be on the rocks as new figures have revealed that the country has the highest divorce rate in the world.

According to the Demographic Yearbook-a statistics collection put out by the United Nations- there are five divorces per every 1,000 marriages in the country, reports the New …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

N. Korea gets gender wrong while calling US politician ‘human scum’

TOKYO – North Korea got the gender wrong while labeling the incoming head of the United States’ House Foreign Affairs Committee as “human scum” and an “anti-communist fanatic”.

In a blistering attack on Republican politician from Florida …. Original article  : N. Korea gets gender wrong while calling US politician ‘human scum’.

Karunakaran’s condition continues to be critical

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The condition of ailing Congress leader K Karunakaran continued to be critical on Thursday.

Ventilator support was resumed for Karunakaran yesterday after he suffered acute breathing trouble following a stroke at a hospital here.

Karunakaran, 93, was hospitalised on December 10 following … Original article on : Karunakaran’s condition continues to be critical.

Pranab Mukherjee wants apology from Opposition for Parliament deadlock

NEW DELHI – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Thursday demanded an apology from the Opposition, accusing it of destroying Parliament after they rejected his offer of a special session to discuss the Joint Parliamentary Probe (JPC) issue on 2G scam.

“In the entire Winter Session, they (Opposition) did … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pranab Mukherjee wants apology from Opposition for Parliament deadlock.

Oz man could end up in jail for kissing wife on butt

MELBOURNE – A man in Australia has been warned that he could face a jail term after he drunkenly kissed his estranged wife on her bottom.

According to the Mercury, the unemployed 48-year-old man, who has pleaded guilty to indecent assault in the Melbourne Magistrates Court, had been drinking when he visited his …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Oz man could end up in jail for kissing wife on butt.

Christmas Greeting Threatened By Social Networking?

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- The Christmas is simply a few days ahead and the shopping season is in full swing. People are busy buying Christmas greeting and gifts for their near and dear ones. However, this year the card buying has seen a decline and the reason mostly possibly is the rise of the … Read : Christmas Greeting Threatened By Social Networking?.

At CIA, WikiLeaks task force is – OMG! – ‘WTF’

WASHINGTON – The task force set up to assess the damage caused by the disclosure of secret US diplomatic cables by WikiLeaks has become popular at the CIA headquarters more due to its acronym W.T.F than its actual reason.

The CIA (Central Intelligence Agency) has launched a task force to assess the impact of … Original source on Gaea Times at : At CIA, WikiLeaks task force is – OMG! – ‘WTF’.

Gujjar Agitation Continues

BHARATPUR, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The agitation of the Gujjar’s demanding five per cent reservation in government job as well as educational institution reached its fourth day on Thursday as the Central government dispatched more paramilitary forces to bring the situation under control. The agitation of the Gujjars comes as a protest against the judgment delivered [..] Read the original article: here.

Conquering Mt Everest: romantic adventure or personal status pursuit?

WASHINGTON – Enthusiastic adventurers these days are prepared to pay any amount of money to, say, conquer the Everest but a new study asks: Is it an adventure characterizing communitarian spirit or just a selfish pursuit?

“In order to escape the rules, contraptions, and stresses of daily life in the city, many people search for new … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Conquering Mt Everest: romantic adventure or personal status pursuit?.

Inability to imagine future prevents us from saving up in the present: Study

WASHINGTON – A new study reveals that if we could imagine our future financial situation, we would be much more willing to save up money in the present.

“This willingness to forego money now and wait for future benefits is strongly affected by how connected we feel to our future self, who will ultimately benefit from … Read more >>.

Ex-president Bush, wife safe after police detain man outside Dallas home

DALLAS – Former president George W. Bush and his wife Laura Bush were reported to be safe and sound after police detained a man near their home on Wednesday night.

According to local news reports, a man was caught erratically driving a muscle car in the upscale Preston Hollow neighborhood.

According to Fox News, as many …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ex-president Bush, wife safe after police detain man outside Dallas home.

Teen girls living in most deprived areas ‘more likely to be assaulted’

WASHINGTON – A new study in UK has revealed that teen girls living in the most deprived areas are five times as likely to be assaulted as their affluent male and female peers.

Young men are twice as likely to be a victim of assault as young women, but the link between deprivation and assault is … Original source on Gaea Times at : Teen girls living in most deprived areas ‘more likely to be assaulted’.

Obama boasts ‘lame duck session’ has been ’season of progress for American people’

WASHINGTON – United States President Barack Obama has hailed the lame-duck session of the 111th Congress, which came to an end on Wednesday, as the “most productive post-election period in decades”.

A ‘lame-duck’ session of Congress in the U.S. occurs whenever one Congress meets after its successor is elected, but before the successor’s term begins.

The Republicans … Read more >>.

Indian-origin doc in Oz admits to manslaughter of prostitute

MELBOURNE – An Indian-origin neurosurgeon accused of murdering two prostitutes has admitted to the manslaughter of one, who died after cocaine-fuelled sex sessions at his Sydney home.

Suresh Surendranath Nair, 42, was charged with murdering Suellen Domingues-Zaupa, but the crown accepted his guilty plea to the less serious offence, News.com.au reported.

The crown also accepted his guilty …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indian-origin doc in Oz admits to manslaughter of prostitute.

Crossbow Cannibal wanted to be infamous like Yorkshire Ripper, says ex

LONDON – The ex-girlfriend of The Crossbow Cannibal, who was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of three women, has revealed that he had boasted to her about becoming more infamous than the Yorkshire Ripper.

Amanda Judson, 45, revealed that Stephen Griffiths, 40, even pulled out a dictionary to explain to her the difference between … Original article on : Crossbow Cannibal wanted to be infamous like Yorkshire Ripper, says ex.

Number of Crossbow Cannibal’s murder victims could be as high as 14

LONDON – The number of victims of The Crossbow Cannibal, who was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of three women, could be as high as 14, revealed police.

Stephen Griffiths, 40, who admitted to butchering the three Bradford prostitutes, had told a lover that he would not stop until he killed one more than … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Number of Crossbow Cannibal’s murder victims could be as high as 14.

UK Muslim hate group launches ‘poster campaign’ terming Christmas “evil”

LONDON – Fanatics from a banned Islamic hate group have reportedly launched a nationwide ‘poster campaign’ in Britain describing Christmas as an “evil” festival that is responsible for rape, teenage pregnancies, abortion, promiscuity, crime and paedophilia.

According to the Daily Mail, Islam4UK group launched the campaign with an intention to convert Christians to Islam in the … Original source on Gaea Times at : UK Muslim hate group launches ‘poster campaign’ terming Christmas “evil”.

China’s Amazon causes outrage for selling items made from cat, dog skin

LONDON – China’s largest retail website has sparked outrage among animal lovers after it offered thousands of products made from the skins of cats and dogs.

Upon searching the website, Taobao.com, it was found that the most popular items were trousers and hats made from dog fur, which is touted for its ability to ward off … Read more : China’s Amazon causes outrage for selling items made from cat, dog skin.

More Brits to shop online than go to church on Christmas

LONDON – Rather than attending a church service, this year’s Christmas Day will see more number of British people logging on to the Internet for some online shopping.

Online retail trade group IMRG has predicted that about 4.8 million people would find time on Christmas Day to go online, get out their credit card, and buy … Read : More Brits to shop online than go to church on Christmas.

China slams Vatican’s criticism of Chinese Catholics’ congress as ‘very imprudent’

BEIJING – China has rejected the Vatican’s criticism of a recent national congress of Chinese Catholics, blaming the Vatican for damaging relations between the two sides.

The Vatican had earlier condemned the congress, which was held from December 7 to 9 to elect the new leadership of China’s Catholic church, and accused China of violating religious … Read this article on Gaea Times at : China slams Vatican’s criticism of Chinese Catholics’ congress as ‘very imprudent’.

US’ efforts to prosecute me ‘a warning that all journalists will be next’: Assange

WASHINGTON – Julian Assange, founder of the whistleblower website ‘Wikileaks’ that recently released hundreds of secret US diplomatic cables, has said that efforts made by America to prosecute him on espionage charges should serve as a warning to journalists in that country.

News.com.au quoted Assange as saying that there has been a “quite deliberate attempt …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Beijing puts limits on new vehicle registrations to stem traffic jam epidemic

BEIJING – Beijing has announced new traffic measures, including limiting registration of new vehicles, in a major effort to tackle traffic jams on roads in China’s capital city.

China Daily quoted Zhou Zhengyu, Deputy Secretary-General of the municipal government, as saying that only 240,000 vehicles … Read more : Beijing puts limits on new vehicle registrations to stem traffic jam epidemic.

U.S. governor’s Billy the Kid pardon proposal sparks fury

LONDON – A U.S. governor has sparked fury after he said that he is considering an official pardon for Billy the Kid-the man who apparently killed 21 men.

Henry McCarty, better known as Billy the Kid, could have his name cleared after 130 years after a poll set up … Original article on : U.S. governor’s Billy the Kid pardon proposal sparks fury.

Christmas In Mumbai Under Terror Alert

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Just like cities all across the globe, the financial capital of Mumbai is also gearing up to celebrate the festivities of Christmas to the fullest. However, this year, the Christmas festivities in the city would be carried out under heightened security after Mumbai Police received a tip-off that four Lashkar-e-Taiba militants … Read more »»».

Want a happy marriage? Save sex for honeymoon

LONDON – Staying away from sex until after the wedding leads to happier marriages, said a study that was reported here.

Postponing the joy of the wedding night results in better relationships and also improves sex itself, researchers in the US found in the study for which 2,035 married couples were asked how soon they …. Read the original article  : Want a happy marriage? Save sex for honeymoon.

Over 900 nabbed in China crackdown on coal mining sector corruption this year

BEIJING – The campaign against corruption in the coal-mining sector has reportedly led to the punishing of a total of 906 government officials in North China’s Shanxi province in the past 11 months.

In the 11 months to November, the province received 759 reports of corruption and seven department-level government officials were sacked.

China Daily quoted the …. Read the original article  : here.

Norwegian newspaper claims to possess all ‘uncensored’ Wikileaks cables

NEW YORK – A Norwegian newspaper has claimed that it has obtained the whole bunch of 250,000 uncensored secret US diplomatic cables that the whistleblower website ‘Wikileas’ has been distributing all this while.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Aftenposten is apparently the first media organisation outside WikiLeaks’ five partners to obtain the secret materials.

WikiLeaks …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Ground Zero mosque’ Imam to undertake ’speaking tour’ of US next month

NEW YORK – Feisal Abdul Rauf, the Imam behind the proposed community centre and mosque near Ground Zero, would reportedly undertake a nationwide tour in the United States next month to promote the project and to discuss about life of Muslims in America.

The New York Times quoted Rauf as saying that last summer’s controversy has …. Original source  : ‘Ground Zero mosque’ Imam to undertake ’speaking tour’ of US next month.

Christmas Eve luckiest day for winning lottery

LONDON – The National Lottery has claimed that Christmas Eve is the luckiest day of the year for winning the lottery.

National Lottery organisers said December 24 is the luckiest day of the year, with more jackpots of 1 million pounds or more won on the day in the past 16 years than any other time …. Original source  : Christmas Eve luckiest day for winning lottery.

Indian-origin neurosurgeon left prostitute dead in his bed for 2 days

SYDNEY – An Indian-origin neurosurgeon left a young prostitute dead in his bed for almost two days while he continued a drug and sex binge in a Sydney hotel room last year.

Suresh Surendranath Nair and another prostitute sat watching while Suellen Domingues Zaupa lay convulsing on his bed, gripped by cocaine toxicity and bleeding from …. Read the original article  : here.

Santa given security pat-down at Maningrida airport

MELBOURNE – It looks like even Santa can’t escape the law.

Waiting to greet him at Maningrida airport Tuesday were two police officers, according to The Northern Territory News.

The police searched every bag and passenger getting off the plane, including Santa, to make sure he was not carrying any contraband alcohol under his red suit.

Constable … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Santa given security pat-down at Maningrida airport.

Christmas Of President Barack Obama

HONOLULU (GaeaTimes.com)- While the world is gearing up for celebrating Christmas and the new year, Barack Obama the president of USA has plans to stay far from the madding crowd and spend some quiet days with his family members. He has reached Hawaii on Wednesday the state where he had spent his young years. …. Source  : Christmas Of President Barack Obama.

DMK to pull out all stops to save Raja

CHENNAI – The ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party in Tamil Nadu has reportedly decided to pull out all stops to save and defend the reputation of former Telecom Minister A. Raja in connection with his role in the controversial 2G telecom licensing scam.

According to DMK sources, the party leadership is planning to organise a … Read more : DMK to pull out all stops to save Raja.

Gujjar community continues protests over demand for jobs reservations

Mathura (Uttar Pradesh)/DAUSA – Hundreds of members of the ethnic Gujjar community continue to stage protests in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan over a demand for reservation of jobs in government and educational institutions.

The Gujjars have been demanding a separate five percent quota in government jobs and educational institutions.

Shouting anti-government slogans, hundreds of protestors carrying banners …. Source article  : Gujjar community continues protests over demand for jobs reservations.

Queen highlights the importance of sports in Christmas message

LONDON – In her Christmas message to the nation, the Queen will highlight the importance of sports as a medium that can help build communities and create harmony.

The monarch has chosen to focus her annual broadcast on how games and exercise can positively distance people from their day-to-day lives, reports the Scotsman.

During her television address, … Read more >>>.

Rail service resumes in Kashmir Valley

SRINAGAR – Train services resumed in the Kashmir Valley on Thursday after being suspended for about six months during unrest in the region.

The train services between Budgam and Qazigund district was restored in the first phase. Authorities said the route between Qazigund and Baramulla will be functional within next few days.

Kashmir has witnessed massive demonstrations …. Source article  : Rail service resumes in Kashmir Valley.

‘The Fantastic Four’ member to die in next issue

LONDON – One of the key characters in ‘The Fantastic Four’ will die in an upcoming issue.

The Fantastic Four, the superheroes whose creation nearly 50 years ago helped usher in the Silver Age of comics for Marvel, will soon become a trio.

Marvel Comics have said that a member of the foursome, who comprise Mr …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘The Fantastic Four’ member to die in next issue.

Critics slam likeness of Wills, Kate on new commemorative coin

NEW YORK – The images of Prince William and his bride-to-be, Kate Middleton, on a new coin look nothing like the couple, say critics.

The coin commemorating the royal couple’s engagement is being slammed by critics, who say the likeness of the future princess looks chubby and haggard.

The design on the 5 pounds coin, released by … Read more >>.

Kashmir interlocutors to submit report to government in ten days

SRINAGAR/NEW DELHI – Dileep Padgaonkar, veteran Indian journalist and one of the three Kashmir interlocutors, said on Thursday, that they will submit the report with their recommendations to the Central Government within ten days.

The two other interlocutors-academician Radha Kumar and former Information Commissioner M M Ansari were also present at the press conference in Srinagar.

“The … Read more >>>.

Pak Army should declare “jihad” against US forces’ ground raids in tribal areas: JUI-F

ISLAMABAD – Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Fazalur Rehman has strongly criticised US media reports on the military operation in Pakistan’s tribal region, saying the Pakistan Army should declare ‘jihad’ in response to the US forces’ ground raids in North Waziristan.

Speaking in the National Assembly, Fazl expressed dismay over the policies adopted by the Pakistan People’s …. Source  : Pak Army should declare “jihad” against US forces’ ground raids in tribal areas: JUI-F.

Man arrested for encroaching Obama’s safety zones

WASHINGTON – A man has been arrested after encroaching into the Secret Service safety zone placed around US President Barack Obama’s Kailua vacation home on Thursday.

However, the Secret Service said that Obama was never in danger and the incident had nothing to do with the President.

“Honolulu Police were going to arrest someone … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Man arrested for encroaching Obama’s safety zones.

‘Judaism’ most popular religion in the US

ISRAEL – A new study has revealed that the most popular faith in the US is Judaism.

Sociologists Robert D. Putnam and David E. Campbell write in their new book ‘American Grace: How Religion Divides and Unites Us’ about the study they … Read : ‘Judaism’ most popular religion in the US.

Key Ahmadinejad aide behind dismissal of senior Iranian officials

WASHINGTON – A key aide of Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Esfandiar Rahim-Mashaei, is said to be the man behind the dismissal of several senior officials.

Chief of Staff Rahim-Mashaei’s daughter is married to Ahmadinejad’s son.

Take the case of …. Read the original article  : Key Ahmadinejad aide behind dismissal of senior Iranian officials.

Hammersmith MP ordered to repay 15.95 pounds after 9-month inquiry

LONDON – After nine months of investigation, the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards has ordered the shadow justice minister, Andy Slaughter, to pay back 15.95 pounds in expenses.

The MP for Hammersmith had used free Commons stationery to organise a Labour … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Hammersmith MP ordered to repay 15.95 pounds after 9-month inquiry.

Manipur holds science exhibition

IMPHAL – The 31st edition of the annual science exhibition was held in Manipur recently with the aim of encouraging young scientists and innovators in the region.

Over 60 students from different districts of Manipur participated in the exhibition that was … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Manipur holds science exhibition.

President Abbas expresses hopes Palestinian state would be established by 2011

WASHINGTON – Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, who travelled to Bethlehem to greet Christmas revellers in the West Bank city, has said that he hopes a Palestinian state would be established by next year.

“We are seekers of … Read : President Abbas expresses hopes Palestinian state would be established by 2011.

Armed militants rob people in Imphal

IMPHAL – Unidentified armed militants robbed people at gunpoint in here recently.

“We were scared and handed over our cell phones. They then wanted other valuables and broke open our cupboards. We are still scared,” said Promila Devi, wife of owner.olice has registered a case …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Armed militants rob people in Imphal.

Delhi Book Fair opens

NEW DELHI – The 16th edition of the annual Delhi Book Fair opened here Saturday.

The fair is usually held in September but was postponed to December due to the Oct 3-14 Commonwealth Games. It has been organised by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) and the Federation of Indian Publishers (FIP).
Last year, 2.74 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

iPads gifted to British troops in Afghanistan for X-mas

LONDON – British troops in Afghanistan have been gifted iPads for Christmas.

The Sun newspaper gave away free iPads to 10 soldiers in the war zone, courtesy Best Buy UK, one of the world’s larget consumer electronics retailers.
Soldier Joseph Rogers, 20, of the Second Royal Tank Regiment, said his iPad was “cool”.
“It was …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : iPads gifted to British troops in Afghanistan for X-mas.

Not all is well with Bihar’s young rural mothers

PATNA – Now that the new government in Bihar is in place and that too with a thundering mandate, it is time to address the problems that the state which is struggling to emerge from centuries old backwardness and debilitating social divisions faces.

The programs for reconstruction of the state’s infrastructure and addressing its myriad social … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Not all is well with Bihar’s young rural mothers.

West Bengal police arrest two Maoists in West Midnapore

WEST MIDNAPORE – West Bengal Police took into its custody two Maoist leaders in West Midnapore district on Friday, and recovered a huge cache of directional landmines as well as uniforms of Central paramilitary forces from them.

The arrested have been identified as Ajit Mahato and Kalipada Bagal, and will be produced in the district court … Original article on : West Bengal police arrest two Maoists in West Midnapore.

Kissinger apologises for 1973 ‘gassing Jews in Soviet Union’ remarks

WASHINGTON – Former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger has apologized for his remarks he made in 1973 during a conversation with the then US President Richard Nixon, when he had said that it would not be an American concern if the Soviet Union sent its Jews to the gas chambers.

According to The Jerusalem Post, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kissinger apologises for 1973 ‘gassing Jews in Soviet Union’ remarks.

Growing number of college girls in China wooing sugar daddies

MELBOURNE – A growing number of Chinese girl students are marketing themselves to older, richer men willing to support their studies and pay for a desirable lifestyle.

Millions of female students have registered Jiayuan, the biggest dating site in China, which was created by 24-year-old Shanghai student Gong Xiaoyuan.

Among its 25 million members are students explicitly … Read more : Growing number of college girls in China wooing sugar daddies.

Free sex advice clinic has no takers as shy Chinese youths go online

NEW DELHI – Clinics offering free sex education and advice may soon fade out, as shy Chinese youngsters are turning to the Internet for all their queries.

A free clinic, which has operated in Shanghai for five years, was closed this week because it was not attracting enough visitors, reports the China Daily.

The clinic, which operated …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Forgetting Ghalib is forgetting history, says writer-diplomat

NEW DELHI – It worries and even angers diplomat-writer Pavan K. Varma that Delhi, of all places, has almost completely forgotten Mirza Ghalib, the great poet and lyricist of the late Mughal period. The city was Ghalib’s home as well as muse.

“Without pride you can’t have a great capital,” believes Varma, who has authored …. Original source  : Forgetting Ghalib is forgetting history, says writer-diplomat.

250 marriages to be solemnised at Bhopal Muslim convention

BHOPAL – As many as 250 nikahs – Muslim marriages – will be solemnised in Madhya Pradesh Sunday at the ongoing ‘Aalami Tabligi Ijtima’ (World Preachers Congregation), an official said Saturday.

The 63rd congregation which unfolded Saturday will conclude Monday with mass “dua” (prayer).
A tented city has come up at Itkheri in Isalam … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 250 marriages to be solemnised at Bhopal Muslim convention.

Diplomatic communications are of ‘privileged’ nature: Nirupama Rao

NEW DELHI – Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao has disapproved the leakage of U.S. diplomatic cables by the whistleblower website WikiLeaks, saying diplomatic communications are of a ‘privileged’ nature and should remain like that.

Speaking after the launch of the redesigned Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Public Diplomacy (PD) Division websites here on Friday, Rao said: …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Diplomatic communications are of ‘privileged’ nature: Nirupama Rao.

New Zealand threatened Fiji’s military chief with ‘loss of family access’ over coup

WELLINGTON – Secret US diplomatic cables leaked by the whistleblower website ‘Wikileaks’ have revealed that New Zealand had threatened Fiji’s military chief Voreqe Bainimarama and his wife with the loss of access to their grandchildren if he staged a coup to overthrow the government of Laisenia Qarase.

Stuff.co.nz quoted the cable as saying that Bainimarama and … Read more >>>.

‘Post riots, China’s Xinjiang region still remains unstable’

BEIJING – China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, which was shaken by a deadly riot last year, still faces many factors that may affect stability, according to one of the top officials in the region.

“We should be aware that the stability of Xinjiang remains fragile. There are still many factors from home and abroad that may …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Post riots, China’s Xinjiang region still remains unstable’.

Russian archaeologists discover ancient city in Socotra Island

SANA’A – After four-year archaeological excavations, a Russian team has discovered an ancient city in Socotra Island.

The state-run 26sep.net reported that the team unearthed an ancient city called “Khajlah” located near Hidibu city, the main city in the island.

The city is dated back to the second century AD, according to the team’s expectation.

The team …. Read the original article  : here.

Satirical WikiLeaks rap featuring Assange’s cameo takes Internet by storm

LONDON – A footage of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange making a cameo appearance on a satirical rap show has become an Internet hit.

Australian internet hit ‘Rap News’ features Assange on an edition entitled ‘News World Order – the war on journalism’, and also makes fun at Donald Rumsfeld and and TV host Bill O’Reilly.

The clip, …. Source  : Satirical WikiLeaks rap featuring Assange’s cameo takes Internet by storm.

No country can feed 1.15-billion people: Pranab Mukharjee

LUCKNOW – Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has said that there is a need for greater self-sufficiency in food production as no country is capable enough to feed 1.15-billion people, regardless of its infrastructural capacity.

“No country in the world can feed 1.15 billion people, whatever be their capacity. Therefore, self-sufficiency in food production is absolutely necessary … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : No country can feed 1.15-billion people: Pranab Mukharjee.

Mobile phones are a classroom distraction

WASHINGTON – A study conducted at the University of New Hampshire has found that college students use cell phones in class, despite knowing that it adversely affects their concentration.

In a universitywide study, student researchers at the UNH Whittemore School of Business and Economics found student cell phone users check their phones an average of …. Source  : Mobile phones are a classroom distraction.

Gujjars intensify agitation by refusing to meet Rajasthan Govt’s team

JAIPUR – Gujjars have intensified their agitation by refusing to meet a three-member team of IAS officers sent by the Rajasthan government to end the stalemate over the reservation row.

Soon after the arrivals of the Rajathan government’s three member team in Bayana, some 12-km from Pilukarpura in Bharatpur district, the team appealed to Gujjars to …. Source  : Gujjars intensify agitation by refusing to meet Rajasthan Govt’s team.

Sri Lanka releases 100 LTTE rebels held in military-run camps

COLOMBO – The Sri Lankan government has released 100 former Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels during a ceremony held in Vavuniya district in Northern Province.

Vavuniya used to be a front line town in the war between the Tamil Tiger rebels and the Sri Lankan Army until the Army advanced northwards during the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sri Lanka releases 100 LTTE rebels held in military-run camps.

Jinnah’s vision made Pakistan nuclear power: AQ Khan

RAWALPINDI – The motivation behind making Pakistan a nuclear power after continuous hard work of seven years was the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, according to disgraced nuclear scientist Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan.

“Keeping in view the example of the Father of the Nation, we were able to make Pakistan a nuclear power in just … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Jinnah’s vision made Pakistan nuclear power: AQ Khan.

Passengers facing problems due to delayed flights at Delhi airport

NEW DELHI – Heavy fog has disrupted the scheduled flights at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi today, causing huge inconveniences to the passengers.

According to reports, around 75 domestic and international flights were delayed, diverted or cancelled this morning after visibility dropped to nearly zero at the airport.

About 15 domestic flights from Delhi …. Original article  : Passengers facing problems due to delayed flights at Delhi airport.

A unique festival of rotis in Andhra

HYDERABAD – It is a unique festival where people belonging to various faiths exchange ‘rotis’ or breads to fulfill their wishes.

Thousands of devotees from different states participated in the just concluded annual ‘rottela panduga’ or festival or rotis in Andhra Pradesh’s Nellore district.
The unique festival is held every year at the Bara Shaheed …. Original article  : A unique festival of rotis in Andhra.

34 killed, 10 injured in road accident in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – As many as 34 people were killed, and 10 others injured in a collision between a bus and a mini-truck in Badayun district of Uttar Pradesh on late Saturday evening.

“A bus from the Uttar Pradesh roadways and a mini-truck collided near the highway. Thirty-four people have been confirmed dead in the accident. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 34 killed, 10 injured in road accident in Uttar Pradesh.

Obama condemns ‘outrageous’ suicide attack in northwestern Pak

HONOLULU – United States President Barack Obama has condemned Saturday’s deadly suicide bomb strike in northwestern Pakistan as an “outrageous terrorist attack”, in which dozens of people were killed at a World Food Programme project.

“I strongly condemn the outrageous terrorist attack in Khar, Pakistan,” the BBC quoted Obama, as saying.

“Killing innocent civilians outside a …. Source article  : Obama condemns ‘outrageous’ suicide attack in northwestern Pak.

Hurling sweets at panto ‘too risky for kids’: Cumbria officials

LONDON – The tradition of hurling sweets into the audience during a pantomime may soon become a thing of the past, as Cumbria officials have ordered amazed actors to lob marshmallows into the crowd instead.

Council officials have decided that throwing boiled sweets is too risky for children.

The stars of a new production of Aladdin have …. Original article  : Hurling sweets at panto ‘too risky for kids’: Cumbria officials.

Leopard injures three people in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – A leopard injured three villagers, including two minors in Bhawaria village of Uttar Pradesh after they saw it roaming in nearby fields, and tried to scare it away.

“The leopard has injured three people so far. It came from the west and is now hiding in the eastern direction,” Sri Ram, one of the …. Source  : Leopard injures three people in Uttar Pradesh.

Dense fog disrupts air, rail and road traffic in Delhi

NEW DELHI – A heavy blanket of fog enveloped the national capital on Sunday morning, hitting air and rail services badly.

The visibility levels at the main and the new runways of the Indira Gandhi International Airport dropped to less than 50 metres, which is much below the minimum required levels.

According to reports, the airport was … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Dense fog disrupts air, rail and road traffic in Delhi.

How to run snitches inside a terrorist group

WASHINGTON – What’s the best way to penetrate a terrorist organisation? Think as they do – pick out the outcasts and prey on their anxieties.

The Naval Criminal Investigative Service created a sheet of how-to tips in 2005, which taught how to run sources inside extremist organizations.

An ideal source was the same for counter-terrorists as for …. Original article  : How to run snitches inside a terrorist group.

(aFTER 10) Displaced Georgian woman wins lottery jackpot on Christmas

TBILISI – For this displaced woman who ekes out a humble existence in a dormitory in this Georgian capital, Christmas brought her a sweet surprise — a $2.4 million lottery jackpot!

Zamira Tordinava couldn’t believe herself when the Georgian National Lottery announced she was the winner of 4.4 million Georgian laris ($2.5 million) on Christmas …. Original article  : (aFTER 10) Displaced Georgian woman wins lottery jackpot on Christmas.

People face severe water crisis in Ranchi

RANCHI – People in Ranchi are facing severe water crisis due to the bad climatic condition and drought like situation in the region.

Nitish Priyadarshi, an environmentalist, said that due to continuous drought from the past two years and … Read more »».

Senior space scientist describes GSLV failure “a tragic incident”

NEW DELHI – Senior space scientist Professor Yashpal described the failure of the GSAT-5P communication satellite launch today as a very tragic incident.

In his first reaction to the failure of the satellite launch, Prof Yashpal said, “It is …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Senior space scientist describes GSLV failure “a tragic incident”.

Sand sculpture of Santa Claus spreads ‘Go Green’ message in Puri

PURI – Renowned sand artist Sudarshan Patnaik created the world’s biggest green coloured Santa Claus at the Golden beach of Puri to spread the message of ‘Go Green’.

Patnaik on Friday made a 160-feet-long sand sculpture of Santa Claus.

“All the tourists visiting this place will take with … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sand sculpture of Santa Claus spreads ‘Go Green’ message in Puri.

Aurangabad artist writes holy book on rice grains

AURANGABAD – Gajendra Wadonkar, a unique artist from Aurangabad, has written chapters of a holy book on rice grains and is aiming to register him in the Guinness book of World records.

Wadonkar said he has planned to complete a holy book on Sai …. Original source  : Aurangabad artist writes holy book on rice grains.

Manipur hosts seventh orange festival

TAMEGLONGLONG – The seventh orange festival was celebrated with enthusiasm and amid heavy security in Manipur’s Tameglonglong District recently.

People in large numbers participated in the two-day long festival, defying the boycott call by the Naga Youth Front in the … Read more : Manipur hosts seventh orange festival.

Communal amity thrives in Karnataka district

CHIKKABALAPURA – Setting an example of communal harmony, the women professionals belonging to different religions have been working together in joss (fragrance essence) stick units for the past several decades in Chintamani town of Karnataka’s Chikkabalapura District.

Entrepreneurs of Chintamani are regarded as the pioneers of the rolling … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Communal amity thrives in Karnataka district.