Breaking News – Monthly Newsletter January 2011

Saturday, January 1, 2011

Norway boss orders female staff to wear red bracelets during periods

LONDON – A look at the “tyrannical” toilet rules in Norwegian companies found one boss asking his female staff to wear red bracelets during their periods.

A workers’ union report claimed that businesses were becoming obsessed with lost productivity due to employees spending too much time answering the call of nature.

The report by the Parat … Original source on Gaea Times at : Norway boss orders female staff to wear red bracelets during periods.

Brit-US forces’ secret strikes kill 3,200 Afghan Taliban in 90 days

KABUL – Secret strike operations led by British and American Special Forces have reportedly killed 3,200 Taliban insurgents in Kabul in just 90 days time.

The task was completed in an “autumn showdown,” which was launched to crush the Taliban before they disappear ahead of winter, by British SAS and SBS fighters, US Delta Force …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brit-US forces’ secret strikes kill 3,200 Afghan Taliban in 90 days.

Ex- ISI chief Gul claims US making him a scapegoat for Afghan-war defeat

NEW YORK – Former chief of the Pakistan spy agency ISI, Hamid Gul, has been accused in several of the leaked documents, posted by whistle-blower website WikiLeaks, of regularly meeting al Qaeda and Taliban commanders to order suicide attacks in Afghanistan.

Responding to the allegations, Gul said that the United States had orchestrated the mass leak …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ex- ISI chief Gul claims US making him a scapegoat for Afghan-war defeat.

Afghan officials shocked at “reliable policeman” killing six US-NATO forces

KABUL – An Afghan citizen, who shot and killed six American soldiers on Monday, had been reportedly a reliable police officer since he joined in 2008.

The Taliban has claimed that he was a sleeper agent they had planted to kill NATO soldiers.

The officer named Ezzatullah, who took part in one of the worst attacks … Original source on Gaea Times at : Afghan officials shocked at “reliable policeman” killing six US-NATO forces.

Why ‘men like blonde bombshells’ and ‘most suicide bombers are Muslim’

LONDON – There are times when one might put their foot in their mouth, but for evolutionary psychologist Satoshi Kanazawa, the expression doesn’t even begin to cover it.

The London School of Economics researcher reveals in his new book titled ‘Ten Politically Incorrect Truths about Human Nature’ – just that.

He examined the 10-volume compendium The Encyclopaedia … Read more >>.

US, UK, Russia share concerns over Pak nuclear stockpile, proliferation: WikiLeaks

LONDON – United States and British diplomats fear that Pakistan’s nuclear weapons programme could lead to fissile material falling into the hands of terrorists or a devastating nuclear exchange with India, according to whistle-blower website WikiLeaks.

The latest cache of US embassy cables released by WikiLeaks contains warnings that Pakistan is rapidly building its nuclear stockpile … Read more »».

US envoy hopes WikiLeaks leaks won’t hit Pakistan ties

ISLAMABAD – US Ambassador in Pakistan Cameron Munter has hoped that WikiLeaks’ embarrassing disclosures will “not affect his country’s relationship with Pakistan” as he termed it “unfortunate that WikiLeaks has made classified documents public”.

While talking to media at a ceremony for flood victims in Islamabad Wednesday, Munter said: “I can only say that this … Read more : US envoy hopes WikiLeaks leaks won’t hit Pakistan ties.

Oz woman ‘burns man alive’ for touching her boobs

MELBOURNE – An Australian woman has been charged with murder after she allegedly doused a friend in petrol and then set him alight for touching her breasts while she was sleeping.

Kerry Anne McNiven, 43, made an appearance in Wangaratta Magistrates Court charged with the murder of Gary Stewart, 50, on November 18 last year.

At the … Read more : Oz woman ‘burns man alive’ for touching her boobs.

Most Christmas Day family bust-ups take place at 7pm in UK

LONDON – A study has found that a quarter of families in Britain usually have a bust-up between 7pm and 9pm on Christmas Day, and the reason for it is because they argue over what to watch on TV.

Researchers interviewed 2,000 adults and found that the average family watches four and a half hours of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Arjun Deb gets Katz Basic Science Research Prize for Young Investigators

WASHINGTON – Arjun Deb of Indian origin has been awarded the Louis N. and Arnold M. Katz Basic Science Research Prize for Young Investigators.

Deb is an assistant professor of medicine and of cell and molecular physiology, and a member of the McAllister Heart Institute and the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center.

The Louis N. and Arnold M. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ocean lost boys say they hatched sailing plan while drunk on vodka

MELBOURNE – Three boys from New Zealand, who were recently found and reunited with their family after 50 days of going missing, have admitted that they were drunk when they hatched their sailing plan.

Filo Filo, 15, Samu Pelesa, 15 and Etueni Nasau, 14, from Tokelau, revealed they had been drinking vodka when they decided to [..] Read the original article: here.

Nearly 60pc of Aussies don’t know who’s living next door!

MELBOURNE – A new study has revealed that nearly 60 per cent of Australians do not know their neighbours at all.

The survey, undertaken by That’s Life magazine, also found that 82 percent of Australian adults believe their parents were better neighbours than they are.

Of the 2,100 Australians surveyed, 59 percent said they never speak with …. Source article  : Nearly 60pc of Aussies don’t know who’s living next door!.

Safer doesn’t necessarily mean slower when it comes to road safety

WASHINGTON – A new British research has shown that safer doesn’t necessarily mean slower and formal advanced training for bikers can demonstrate improved safety on our roads.

The aim of the study, carried out by researchers at the Centre for Motorcycle Ergonomics and Rider Human Factors at the University of Nottingham, was to investigate the attitudes, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Safer doesn’t necessarily mean slower when it comes to road safety.

Maoists behead a farmer in Jharkhand

JAMTARA – A group of Maoists beheaded a farmer in Doodhapani region in Jharkhand’s Jamtara district.

The Maoists suspected the farmer named Pradeep Singh as a police informer.

Briefing mediapersons, M P Lakda, Superintendent of Police, Jamtara said that the number of persons who attacked Singh is not yet confirmed.

” The number of people cannot be confirmed … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Maoists behead a farmer in Jharkhand.

Shabbaz Sharif tipped off JUD prior to asset freeze order by govt: Zardari to Patterson

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari discussed with the then US envoy to Pakistan, Anne Patterson, his increasing frustration with former premier Nawaz Sharif’s government in Punjab, whom he believed, had tipped off Jamaat ul-Dawa (JUD) about the assets freeze ordered by the federal government, according to whistle-blower website WikiLeaks.

During a meeting on January … Original article on : Shabbaz Sharif tipped off JUD prior to asset freeze order by govt: Zardari to Patterson.

International Food and Drink Expo to commence in Delhi on Thursday

NEW DELHI – Food and Processing Industries Minister Subhodh Kant Sahai will inaugurate an International Food and Drink Expo 2010 here on Thursday.

The three-day Expo will provide business opportunities for food and beverage industry organisation from India and abroad.

A 600 crore rupees National Institute of Food Technology Entrenreneruship and Management (NIFTEM) is being set … Read more »».

39-member Andhra Pradesh Cabinet sworn-in

HYDERABAD – The new Andhra Pradesh Cabinet under Chief Minister Kiran Kumar Reddy was sworn in on Wednesday by the Governor, E. S. L. Narasimhan.

As expected, two Jaganmohan Reddy loyalists Balineni Srinivasa Reddy and Pilli Subhash Chandra Bose were axed while Kiran Kumar’s bitter rival in Chittoor district, P R Reddy, was also shown … Original source on Gaea Times at : 39-member Andhra Pradesh Cabinet sworn-in.

Richard Branson unveils digital mag for iPad

MELBOURNE – Richard Branson of Virgin Group has launched a digital magazine for Apple’s popular iPad tablet computer.

Named Project, the magazine will focus on entertainment, travel, business, design, and culture.

The application needed to view the magazine will be free to download, but each issue will cost 2.99 dollars through iTunes.

The first issue features actor Jeff … Read : Richard Branson unveils digital mag for iPad.

Saudi-Pak strained relations due to Zardari being perceived “corrupt”, reveals WikiLeaks

ISLAMABAD – Revealing the “strained” Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations, a US embassy cable posted by WikiLeaks has said that the Saudis do not trust and instead consider Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari as well as other leading politicians of the country “corrupt”.

“Saudi relations with Pakistan have been strained because the Saudis don’t trust Zardari and see …. Read the original article  : Saudi-Pak strained relations due to Zardari being perceived “corrupt”, reveals WikiLeaks.

Meet the man who lived as ‘Marilyn Monroe’ in his past life!

LONDON – At first sight, Chris Vicens looks like any other man, but what you don’t know is that he once lived as the blonde bombshell herself, Marilyn Monroe, at least according to him.

The 26-year-old shop assistant of Islington, North London, is utterly convinced that he was Marilyn Monroe in his past life.

‘Past life regression …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Meet the man who lived as ‘Marilyn Monroe’ in his past life!.

Only 15pc of Brit women who cheat get caught by partners

KUALA LUMPUR – A new survey in Britain showed that only 15 percent of females who had affairs were caught by their partners.

“However, one in five men who had an affair would be discovered,” China Press reported.

According to the survey, one out of every 10 men who had an affair would cheat on their partner …. Original source  : Only 15pc of Brit women who cheat get caught by partners.

Obese US women hide shoplifted boots and jeans under belly fat, breasts!

OKLAHOMA – Two women in America arrested for shoplifting are said to have hidden the merchandise under their belly fat and breasts.

Edmond police authorities said Ailene Brown, 28, and Shmeco Thomas, 37, were found stealing the items at the Edmond TJ Maxx by loss prevention officers.

They took four pair of boots, three pair of jeans, … Read more >>>.

India test fires BrahMos cruise missile

BALASORE -India on Thursday successfully test-fired the 290-km range BrahMos cruise missile from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur off the Orissa coast.

The supersonic cruise missile with precision strike capability was test-fired from a mobile launcher at 1100 hours from the launch pad No. 3 of the ITR.

The missile can fly at 2.8 times … Read : India test fires BrahMos cruise missile.

‘Nazi princess’ daughter of SS head still the heroine of shadowy Nazi group

LONDON – Stille Hilfe or Silent Aid – the world’s only support group for mass murderers – has 25 to 40 members including Gudrun Burwitz, the daughter of Heinrich Himmler, head of the SS.

The group is working quietly to stop the extradition to The Hague of Klaas Carel Faber, 88, wanted by Dutch authorities to …. Read the original article  : ‘Nazi princess’ daughter of SS head still the heroine of shadowy Nazi group.

Swedish royals in fresh scandal after Nazi past of Queen’s father revealed

LONDON – Weeks after revelations of the King’s secret affair with a pop singer, the Sweden royal family has been thrown into fresh turmoil over the Nazi past of the queen’s father.

Swedish TV4’s investigative programme Kalla fakta has broadcast the first of a two-part documentary detailing how Queen Silvia’s late father grew rich producing armaments … Read : Swedish royals in fresh scandal after Nazi past of Queen’s father revealed.

Sugababe Keisha Buchanan dreaming of Prince Harry

LONDON – Kate Middleton’s relationship with Prince William has led former Sugababes singer Keisha Buchanan to believe that she may have a chance with his brother.

“It’s all about Prince Harry now. He is so sexy. He’s my favourite royal, hands down,” the Telegraph quoted her as saying.

Buchanan, 26, who is proud of her working-class roots [..] Read the original article: here.

A third of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender youth suffer mental disorders

WASHINGTON – A new study by University of Illinois at Chicago has revealed that one-third of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth have attempted suicide in their lifetime – a prevalence comparable to urban, minority youth – but a majority do not experience mental illness

The researchers recruited 246 ethnically diverse 16- to 20-year-old LGBT … Read : A third of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender youth suffer mental disorders.

Saudi rulers looking for ‘another Musharraf’ in place of ‘rotten head’ Zardari as Pak ruler

ISLAMABAD – The leaked US cables posted on whistle-blower website Wikileaks highlight how, in recent years, Saudi rulers have played favourites with Pakistani politicians, wielded their massive financial clout to political effect and even advocated a return to military rule in Pakistan.

“We in Saudi Arabia are not observers in Pakistan, we are participants,” The Guardian … Read more >>>.

In a first, India goes to Venice Biennale as a nation

NEW DELHI – For the first time in the history of the 115-year-old Venice Biennale, the Indian government will take a showcase of contemporary art to the event as an official entrant.

The 54th Venice Biennale will be held June 4-Nov 27 next year in the picturesque Italian town.
This is first time India will … Read this article on Gaea Times at : In a first, India goes to Venice Biennale as a nation.

Meet the first single mum to reach final of Miss Great Britain

LONDON – A woman in UK has become the first single mum to reach the final of Miss Great Britain.

Charlotte Campbell, 23, who has son Bobby, aged 2 and half, is a black belt in martial art Taekwondo, and aims for a place in history after the rules were relaxed this year for the first … Read : Meet the first single mum to reach final of Miss Great Britain.

Mexican drug gang kills woman who took police chief job men didn’t want

LONDON – The unending war between gangsters and the authorities in Mexico has led to a female police chief, who took on the job because men didn’t want it, being murdered by a drug gang.

Hermila Garcia, 38, who became the top law enforcement officer in the town of Meoqui, northern Mexico, only two months ago, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Mexican drug gang kills woman who took police chief job men didn’t want.

US Parliamentarians’ office to be torn down to build female restroom

WASHINGTON – The US Parliamentarians’ office in the Capitol building is set to be torn down to build female members of Congress a restroom.

Currently, only male lawmakers are afforded the ability to walk steps from the House floor to use the restroom, while women have to walk across Statuary Hall to the Lindy Claiborne Boggs …. Original article  : US Parliamentarians’ office to be torn down to build female restroom.

Fashionable condoms to promote safe sex debut on World AIDS Day

NEW YORK – Condom manufacturer Proper Attire collaborated with The Keith Haring Foundation to debut a line of art-inspired products at the Museum of Contemporary Art to mark World AIDS Day.

Each box, which contains three packaged condoms, is printed with designs by Keith Haring, a noted 1980s New York pop artist and AIDS activist, reports … Read : Fashionable condoms to promote safe sex debut on World AIDS Day.

1.5m Brits ‘would like to be buried with their mobile phones’!

LONDON – A new survey has found that an estimated 1.5 million Britons would like their mobile phones to be placed inside their coffin.

For women, other priorities include a cuddly toy and a picture of a family pet, reports the Daily Mail.

And for men, the surprising list also includes a bottle of drink, a national …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US-based Amazon.com stops hosting Wikileaks on its Web servers

WASHINGTON – America’s largest online retailer, Amazon.com, has stopped hosting whistleblower website WikiLeaks from its Web servers after being contacted by a US Senator.

WikiLeaks had turned to Amazon’s Web services after it claimed that its previous Web host, a company in Sweden called Bahnhof, was hit by computer attacks.

According to reports, staff from Independent US …. Original source  : US-based Amazon.com stops hosting Wikileaks on its Web servers.

France has not integrated its minorities, WikiLeaks quotes US cables as saying

LONDON – France has not done enough to integrate its ethnic and religious minorities and needs to give Muslims a place in mainstream society, U.S. diplomats have said in leaked cables published on Wednesday by a French newspaper.

According to The Telegraph, comments in diplomatic cables released by whistle-blowing website WikiLeaks and published by the … Read more »».

WikiLeaks expose ‘US tactic’ to ignite clash among Muslim nations: ex-Pak Army chief

LAHORE – Calling the WikiLeaks revelations a tactic by the United States to ensue a clash among the Muslim countries, former Army chief Aslam Beg has claimed that the US wanted to divide Afghanistan into three units.

In an exclusive conversation with Nawa-i-Waqt, Beg said that the US was contemplating to ignite a civil war in …. Original source  : WikiLeaks expose ‘US tactic’ to ignite clash among Muslim nations: ex-Pak Army chief.

Canadian envoy offers to resign as leak threatens ties to Afghanistan

OTTAWA/KABUL – Canada’s Ambassador to Afghanistan, William Crosbie, has offered to resign following the leak of U.S. diplomatic cables that threaten bilateral relations between his country and Afghanistan.

According to the Globe and Mail, Crosbie has warned Ottawa that a U.S. document to be published on the website WikiLeaks will include criticisms he made about Afghan …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Canadian envoy offers to resign as leak threatens ties to Afghanistan.

Noted social activists join hands to counter corruption

NEW DELHI – Noted social activists including Anna Hazare, Arvind Kejriwal, and Kiran Bedi jointly gave a call for the enactment and the implementation of the long pending Lokpal Bill to counter corruption in higher echelons of the government.

Addressing the media here, Arvind Kejriwal, the crusader of Right to Information Act said that to fight …. Source article  : Noted social activists join hands to counter corruption.

China not for ‘pouring oil on flames’ in Korean Peninsula

NEW DELHI – China has called on the international commuity to exercise calm and restraint and not “pour oil on the flames” as tensions continue to rise on the Korean Peninsula.

According to a Xinhua report, Beijing said that it does not seek to “protect any side” in the current crisis and calls on all … Read more : China not for ‘pouring oil on flames’ in Korean Peninsula.

Pak says its classified information can never been leaked like under US ‘cablegate’

ISLAMABAD – In the wake of US diplomatic cables being made public by whistle-blower website WikiLeaks, Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesman Abdul Basit has said that his country’s classified information had never been leaked.

Talking to PTV, Basit said that the leakage of the United States classified documents was a big issue, and that the nations should … Read more >>.

WikiLeaks revelations “don’t change anything fundamental” in US-Pak ties: Holbrooke

WASHINGTON – The White House is confident that the US-Pakistan ties will withstand any negative effect emanating from the diplomatic cables released by WikiLeaks, US Special Representative Richard Holbrooke has said, while vowing continued efforts towards building mutual trust.

“These dreadful leaks, these appalling leaks, which are so unfortunate, are not going to change US-Pakistan relations. …. Source article  : WikiLeaks revelations “don’t change anything fundamental” in US-Pak ties: Holbrooke.

Irish woman found guilty of raping another woman

MELBOURNE – A jury has found an Irish woman guilty of raping another woman in a toilet cubicle at an inner Brisbane hotel.

Anne-Marie O’Loughlin had pleaded not guilty in the Brisbane District Court to two counts of rape, deprivation of liberty and sexual assault.

But now, O’Loughlin has been found guilty of two rape charges and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Irish woman found guilty of raping another woman.

UK war effort in Helmand branded ‘utter failure’ by US, Afghanistan: Wikileaks

LONDON – Afghan President Hamid Karzai, top Afghan officials and the US commander of Nato troops, had slammed Britain over its failure to impose security and connect with ordinary Afghans in the troubled Helmand province, according to US diplomatic cables released by the whistleblower website ‘WikiLeaks.’

According to the Guardian, the British operation in Helmand … Read this article on Gaea Times at : UK war effort in Helmand branded ‘utter failure’ by US, Afghanistan: Wikileaks.

Brit women spend more on themselves during Christmas

LONDON – A UK survey has found that women spend more on themselves at Christmas than on presents for partners, family and friends.

Researchers said half of women splash out hundreds of pounds making sure they look good and dress well over the party season, reports the Daily Mail.

A new frock tops the list of popular [..] Read the original article: here.

Teen whose waist can fit in a man’s hands named America’s Next Top Model

LONDON – The teenaged model, who caused controversy when a judge showed he could fit both hands round her tiny waist, has now been named as America’s Next Top Model.

Ann Ward, 19, who is 6″2 and from Dallas, started a controversy with her ultra slim physique when she first made her appearance on the show,

Now … Read : Teen whose waist can fit in a man’s hands named America’s Next Top Model.

India expects China to correct trade imbalance, be more sensitive to India

NEW DELHI – Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao said here today that India expected China to correct the trade imbalance between the two nations and would like to see more Indian goods and services entering the Chinese markets.

She was addressing a meeting at the Observer Research Foundation here.

Many Chinese companies were now well established in India … Original source on Gaea Times at : India expects China to correct trade imbalance, be more sensitive to India.

Noah’s Ark and Tower of Babel to be built in Kentucky

LONDON – A full-scale Noah’s Ark is to be constructed in Kentucky, as part of a proposed 100-million-dollars creationism-themed amusement park.

The planned complex will also feature a walled city, a replica of the Tower of Babel, a recreation of a first-century Middle Eastern village, a 500-seat theatre, an aviary, and a ‘journey through biblical history’ … Read more >>>.

Now, WikiLeaks taken offline by ‘domain name system’ provider

LONDON – WikiLeaks went offline again on Friday after the company providing its DNS services decided to terminate the whistleblower website’s account.

The outage comes two days after Amazon Web Services (AWS) decided to end its hosting agreements with WikiLeaks, resulting in the website going offline for several hours until it was moved back to its …. Source  : Now, WikiLeaks taken offline by ‘domain name system’ provider.

‘Shaken’ Pak govt seeks to work out joint civil-military strategy on WikiLeaks expose

ISLAMABAD – Shaken by “Cablegate”, the Pakistan government has convened a meeting of the Defence Committee of the Cabinet (DCC) to deliberate on the crisis.

The DCC meeting will be held on Friday (today) under Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, and attended by the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, the three services chiefs, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Brit mum gives birth on back seat of car for the 2nd time

LONDON – A British woman delivered her own baby on the back seat of a car and that too for the second time.

Faye Lygo, a mother-of-five from Blean near Canterbury, Kent, was rushing to the hospital with her husband Carl when baby Rex, weighing 9lb 7oz, popped out in the back of their Land Rover.

Lygo, …. Original article  : Brit mum gives birth on back seat of car for the 2nd time.

Mitt Romney scared to criticise Sarah Palin after seeing her kill fish

WASHINGTON – Republican Party politician Mitt Romney has revealed that he would never ever speak badly of former Alaska governor Sarah Palin especially after he saw how she killed a fish on her show.

Romney, 63, who made an appearance on “The Tonight Show”, was very supportive of Palin, 46, calling her a “remarkable, energetic, powerful … Original article on : Mitt Romney scared to criticise Sarah Palin after seeing her kill fish.

Web bug allows porn sites to hijack history files of visitors

LONDON – A study has found that a web bug that allows sites to hijack the history files of visitors is being used by porn websites.

A survey of 50,000 of the web’s most visited websites by computer science researchers at UC San Diego found 485 sites exploiting the bug to get at browser histories.

They also …. Original article  : Web bug allows porn sites to hijack history files of visitors.

Iran funding Afghan religious-political leaders, Taliban militants: WikiLeaks

KABUL – Secret cables released by the whistleblower website ‘WikiLeaks’ have revealed that Iran is financing a number of Afghan religious and political leaders, grooming Afghan religious scholars, training Taliban militants and even influencing MPs in the country.

The Guardian quoted the cables as saying that a top Afghan President aide, who had reportedly received … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Iran funding Afghan religious-political leaders, Taliban militants: WikiLeaks.

Oz Haat Mela in Delhi to showcase India’s development

NEW DELHI – Australia’s popular NGO mela, “OzHAAT”, is organizing a mela on December 4 at the Australian High Commission grounds in Chanakayapuri.

The mela has a great selection of innovative products produced by NGOs. Entry is free and everyone is welcome. All profits go directly to the charities represented.

“The name OzHAAT is …. Original source  : Oz Haat Mela in Delhi to showcase India’s development.

US’ strategic partnership with Pak to continue despite WikiLeaks fallout: Crowley

WASHINGTON – Despite the fall-out from the deluge of diplomatic cables having been released by whistle-blower website WikiLeaks, the United States expects that cooperation, support and partnership in the US-Pakistan relationship will continue.

During a press briefing, when asked whether the “WikiLeaks documents can or will create any sort of confusion or increased tension between Pakistan …. Source article  : US’ strategic partnership with Pak to continue despite WikiLeaks fallout: Crowley.

Trade union activists burn effigy of Chief Minister Buddhadeb

KOLKATA – The members of Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) burnt effigy of West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee and demanded the reopening of closed industries and proper implementation of government jobs.

Hundreds of INTUC activists staged protests here on Thursday and also brunt the effigy TATA group chairman Ratan Tata.

Leaders of the outfit also …. Read the original article  : Trade union activists burn effigy of Chief Minister Buddhadeb.

Unique Identification will bring social inclusion in India, says Nandan Nilekani

NEW DELHI – The Chairman of Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), Nandan Nilekani, has said that the authority will empower the people of India to take full benefits from welfare schemes, in due course becoming a tool of development and social inclusion.

Addressing the annual Rajinder Mathur Memorial Lecture here on Thursday, Nilekani said: “The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Unique Identification will bring social inclusion in India, says Nandan Nilekani.

Maoists poster campaign in Simdega in Jharkhand

SIMDEGA – Maoists carried out a poster campaign asking people not to participate in the village council polls in Jharkhand’s Simdega District on Thursday.

Ultras pasted hundreds of posters and flyers on walls, trees and buildings.

The posters contained pro-Maoist literature across the town, urging locals to stay away from the ongoing election process.

Superintendent of Police, Simdega, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Maoists poster campaign in Simdega in Jharkhand.

Grameen Bank founder accused of diverting millions of dollars of aid to other projects

DHAKA – Muhammad Yunus, the Bangladeshi economist and the founder of Grameen Bank who received the Nobel Prize for Peace in 2006, has been accused of diverting millions of dollars of aid money from the bank.

The bank was set up by Professor Yunus to provide micro-credit, or small loans, to the poor. The original aim …. Original source  : Grameen Bank founder accused of diverting millions of dollars of aid to other projects.

Elaine Kaufman Passes Away

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- Elaine Kaufman, the motherly woman who ran the New York bistro Elaine’s for 5 decades passed away on Friday. The 81-year-old breathed her last at the Lenox Hill Hospital. As the news of the restaurateur’s demise spread, several bloggers took to the web and spoke about their experiences at Elaine’s. … Original article on : Elaine Kaufman Passes Away.

Bail granted for 8 accused in LIC housing loan scam

MUMBAI – A Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court has granted bail to eight people arrested for the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) housing loan scam.

Earlier, CBI had busted a housing finance racket and arrested eight persons under a bribery case on November 24.

Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) Finance CEO Ramchandran Nair, LIC secretary (investment) Naresh Chopra, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Bail granted for 8 accused in LIC housing loan scam.

Pind Daan venue, River Falgu in Gaya polluted

GAYA – Tourists and residents in Bihar’s Gaya district complained of lack of cleanliness around the holy River Falgu.

Tourists come to ‘Vishnupad’ Mandir to give Pind-Daan to their ancestors.

Residents blame the government for not paying attention towards the cleanliness by the riverside and also complain about the lack of clean drinking water facilities.

“Here by the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pind Daan venue, River Falgu in Gaya polluted.

UK woman calls police over stolen snowman

LONDON – A woman in Britain has infuriated police after she dialled the emergency number only to tell them that her snowman had been stolen.

The police said the woman figured it demanded their involvement because she had used 1-pound coins for the eyes and teaspoons for the arms.he woman, from Chatham, Kent, has been “spoken …. Original article  : UK woman calls police over stolen snowman.

UK woman jailed for crying rape after consenting to sex session with 3 men

LONDON – A woman in Britain has been jailed for a year for lying to the police that she had been raped even though she had consented to an alcohol-fuelled sex session with three men.

Sabrina Johnson, 25, performed sex acts on the three strangers she had met while walking home from a night out, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : UK woman jailed for crying rape after consenting to sex session with 3 men.

Teacher in UK struck off for discussing her sex life with pupils

LONDON – A teacher in Britain has been struck off the teaching register for two years after a court heard that she had referred to a group of students as ’slags’, and also explicitly discussed her sex life.

Lindsay Brown, 35, from Burton Latimer, Northants, was found by the General Teaching Council committee in Birmingham to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pak Army’s proposal to mediate between US, Mullah Omar rejected: WikiLeaks

KABUL – The Pakistan Army had offered to mediate between the US with Taliban leader Mullah Omar, said Afghan intelligence chief Amarullah Saleh, a diplomatic cable unveiled by whistle-blower website WikiLeaks has revealed.

According to the leaked cable, in mid-2009, Saleh told a briefing of foreign diplomats that Pakistan army had offered the role of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pak Army’s proposal to mediate between US, Mullah Omar rejected: WikiLeaks.

Sarkozy supports India’s bid for permanent UNSC seat

BANGALORE – French President Nicolas Sarkozy, who is on a four-day state visit to India, backed India’s bid for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Saturday.

Addressing over 500 scientists, captains of industry and students at the Indian Space Research Origination (ISRO) here, Sarkozy said India, along with Brazil, Germany, … Original article on : Sarkozy supports India’s bid for permanent UNSC seat.

Youth sought in Mexico killings arrested

LOS ANGELES – Mexican law enforcement authorities have arrested a 14-year-old for killing his rivals.

Edgar Jimenez Lugo, a killer attached with a drug cartel in the city of Cuernavaca, is known to have beheaded some of his victims, the Los Angeles Times reports.

According to the paper, the much-rumored alleged young assassin nicknamed “El Ponchis” was …. Read the original article  : here.

Brit tax boss accused of groping 5 women on packed trains

LONDON – A director of criminal investigations for Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs has been accused of touching and groping women during his commute on crowded trains.

A court was told Nicholas Shaw, 55, who describes himself as “blissfully” married for 30 years, allegedly put his hand on their legs or rubbed their buttocks as they …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Brit tax boss accused of groping 5 women on packed trains.

Barbie with camera “could be used by paedophiles”, warns FBI

LONDON – The FBI has in a leaked memo said that a new Barbie doll with a camera “could be used by paedophiles”.

The Video Girl Barbie, which comes for 45 dollars and features a camera in a necklace around the neck and a screen in the back, allows children to film for up to 30 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Brits cadge ???8bn of stuff a year, and rarely return it!

LONDON – Turns out most Britons are very similar to Homer Simpson – they help themselves to items that are worth 8 billion pounds a year, but never hand them back when they are done using them.

They cadge every thing from lawnmowers to DVDs from friends and family and then fail to give them back, … Read more »»».

All Brit girls want for Christmas this year is new boobs

LONDON – A UK survey has revealed that this year, all girls want is a sexy new boob job and Botox for Christmas this year.

Even men are going for cosmetic surgery this season, reports the Daily Star.

Last month saw a 45 percent increase in inquiries at the Transform Cosmetic Surgery Group, the UK’s biggest cosmetic …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

British parliamentarians avoid voting on Burkha ban

LONDON – A bid to ban the burkha in Britain was effectively buried in red tape in the Commons yesterday.

Last night, however, the Tory MP who tried to bring in the controversial new law, Philip Hollobone, vowed to carry on his campaign.

Hollobone’s Bill was aimed at preventing Muslim veils from being worn in public.

His Face …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Meet the jeweller who has Michelle Obama’s undivided attention

WASHINGTON – When it comes to jewellery, First Lady Michelle Obama has a clear favourite – Brooklyn-bred designer Alexis Bittar.

Obama has been spotted all over the globe in a variety of baubles from the jeweller, whose preferred working materials include lucite and semi-precious stones, reports People mag.

In fact, she appeared on the Barbara Walters’ Thanksgiving …. Original source  : Meet the jeweller who has Michelle Obama’s undivided attention.

Britain was ‘paranoid’ over UK-US relationship after Obama became president: Wikileaks

LONDON – Recent secret cables released by the whistleblower website Wikileaks have revealed Britain’s “paranoia” about its so-called special relationship with the US.

In one cable, a senior US diplomat describes “excessive UK speculation” after Barack Obama became President.

The BBC quoted the secret documents as saying that a 2008 cable written by US Deputy Chief of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Britain was ‘paranoid’ over UK-US relationship after Obama became president: Wikileaks.

Shortage of LPG in Shimla results in deforestation

SHIMLA – Shortage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) has compelled villagers in Himachal Pradesh’s Shimla district to use the traditional methods of cooking, which is resulting in deforestation across the state.

There is a shortage of LPG cylinders in the district, following the suspension of gas service from Panipat refinery.

“There is a shortage of LPG …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

China to have 1.2m HIV-positive people by the end of 2015

NEW DELHI – A report scheduled for formal release in the first half of next year has revealed that China will have about 1.2 million people living with HIV/AIDS by the end of 2015.

China already has 740,000 HIV/AIDS sufferers on the mainland and sex has become the major reason for the transmission, reports the China …. Original article  : China to have 1.2m HIV-positive people by the end of 2015.

Secretary of State is my last public position, says Hillary Clinton

MANAMA – U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who is currently on a visit to Bahrain, has said she will not run for president in 2012, and will most likely turn to humanitarian work at the conclusion of her term.

“I think I will serve as secretary of state as my last public position,” said on …. Original article  : Secretary of State is my last public position, says Hillary Clinton.

Nurpur oranges face bad weather

NURPUR – Orange production has been hit due to the bad weather conditions in Himachal Pradesh’s Nurpur District.

Farmers are not expecting a good crop and they are closing down orange orchards.

Many farmers are not recovering their annual investment from the harvest.

“Due to the change in weather, we are facing a lot of problems from … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nurpur oranges face bad weather.

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar’s Death Anniversary Tomorrow

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The 54th death anniversary of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar would be observed across the country on Monday. As large number of followers of the iconic political leader are expected to converge at the Chaitya Bhoomi at Shivaji Park in Mumbai to pay their floral tribute to Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, the city authorities … Read more »»».

Westminster Abbey to get makeover in time for the royal wedding

LONDON – The wedding venue for Prince William and Kate Middleton, Westminster Abbey, is set to get a makeover.

The Abbey, which is expected to host up to 3,000 guests at the royal wedding in April, including Royals and heads of state from around the world, will undergo a major conservation programme to restore its most … Read : Westminster Abbey to get makeover in time for the royal wedding.

WikiLeaks “a rapist’s propaganda” for ‘maligning’ all nations: Saudi envoy

ISLAMABAD – Slamming the release of secret diplomatic cables by whistle blower website WikiLeaks for ‘maligning the leadership of every country’, a senior Saudi diplomat has called the website “a rapist’s propaganda”.

“If any body takes a piece of paper, writes his malicious ideas on it, and posts them at a website, what would you call … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : WikiLeaks “a rapist’s propaganda” for ‘maligning’ all nations: Saudi envoy.

Asfandyar rejects WikiLeaks reports of Kayani offering him presidency

ISLAMABAD – Awami National Party (ANP) chief Asfandyar Wali Khan has dismissed whistle-blower website WikiLeaks’ reports that said Army Chief General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani had offered him to become the president of Pakistan.

Talking to journalists, Asfandyar said the reports about other politicians were also baseless, the Dawn reports.

He, however, acknowledged that President Asif Ali Zardari … Original source on Gaea Times at : Asfandyar rejects WikiLeaks reports of Kayani offering him presidency.

An American “university” offering online Ph. D. in Hinduism

NEVADA – Almeda University is now offering online “Doctor of Philosophy in Hinduism”.

Its announcement says: “Hinduism is a religion of deep history and complex spirituality, with unique philosophical and metaphysical components that are typically explored only on a surface level in Western analysis of religion. Almeda University is proud to fill this disconcerting void by … Read more »»».

Nikki Haley to endorse 2012 presidential Republican candidate

WASHINGTON – Nikki Haley, the Indian-origin politician in America, has said that she would endorse a presidential candidate before the primaries.

Politico quoted South Carolina Governor-elect Haley as saying that she would make her pick “only after every one of them has had the opportunity to go out and meet with the constituents of South Carolina … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nikki Haley to endorse 2012 presidential Republican candidate.

Australians strip for charity

SYDNEY – Nearly 300 Australians Sunday stripped down to their underwear and paraded through Sydney in an attempt to break a world record and raise money for a charity.

The group of 278 men and women walked from Sydney’s Martin Place to the Opera House to raise 70,000 Australian dollars ($90,3146) for the Australian Indigenous …. Source article  : Australians strip for charity.

Kids named ‘Beth’ and ‘Josh’ top naughty list

LONDON – Ever wondered what’s in the name? Well, a lot actually, reveals a new survey.

It has found that kids with certain names are among the worst behaved in class, reports the Sun.

The study by School Stickers, who make reward badges for pupils, found Abigail and Jacob were top teachers’ pets.

But Joshua did well, unlike … Read more : Kids named ‘Beth’ and ‘Josh’ top naughty list.

Pak agreed to share information on Mumbai attacks with India: WikiLeaks

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan had agreed to share information with India on the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, a diplomatic cable released by whistle-blower website WikiLeaks has revealed.

ISI Director General Pasha had “concurred in the release of the “tearline” information to be passed to the Indians,” said the leaked cable, which was classified as ’secret’ by the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pak agreed to share information on Mumbai attacks with India: WikiLeaks.

Women to serve on Royal Navy submarines for first time

LONDON – For the very first time, the Royal Navy’s submarine fleet is preparing to open its doors to women.

Wrens have served on surface ships since the Navy lifted its ban on women crew 20 years ago, but they have remained outlawed from the ’silent service’ because of fears that their reproductive organs and unborn …. Source  : Women to serve on Royal Navy submarines for first time.

UK snow: 7 stuck in pub keeping their spirits high by eating, drinking

LONDON – Seven people have been stuck inside a pub for the past nine days after the building was engulfed by 16ft snow drifts.

The five staff and two local residents have been in the ultimate lock-in at The Lion Inn in Blakey Ridge, North Yorkshire.

They have been cut off since last Friday when heavy snow …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

India was concerned with China’s “newly pugnacious” foreign policy: Wikileaks

BEIJING – The whistleblower website Wikileaks’ recent secret releases of US diplomatic cables have revealed that European diplomats, including India, were “most vocal” that China’s “newly pugnacious” foreign policy is “losing friends worldwide”.

According to the Guardian, the US ambassador to Beijing had argued in a cable last February that the country’s foreign policy has failed … Original source on Gaea Times at : India was concerned with China’s “newly pugnacious” foreign policy: Wikileaks.

WikiLeaks expose no ’sacred scriptures’ or ‘divine revelations’: Pak minister

ISLAMABAD – The diplomatic cables released by whistle-blower website WikiLeaks are not ’sacred scriptures’ or ‘divine revelations’ that those should be believed, Federal Minister for Information Qamar Zaman Kaira has said.

“Relations of countries stand on ground realities instead of propositions,” Geo News reported Kaira, as saying, on the occasion of International Disabled People’s Day.

He was …. Read the original article  : WikiLeaks expose no ’sacred scriptures’ or ‘divine revelations’: Pak minister.

Musharraf wanted technocrat-led Pak govt within months of 2008 elections: WikiLeaks

LAHORE – Just after six months of the 2008 general elections in Pakistan, former president Pervez Musharraf was mulling to replace the freshly elected government with that of technocrats, a diplomatic cable released by whistle-blower website WikiLeaks has revealed.

According to a July 25, 2008 cable, in view of the weakening relations between PML-N chief Nawaz …. Read the original article  : Musharraf wanted technocrat-led Pak govt within months of 2008 elections: WikiLeaks.

Paint-peeling Naga Viper chili pepper set to become world’s spiciest

NEW YORK – The Naga Viper will soon be named the hottest chili in the world.

The Naga Viper, a cross between three of the hottest exiting varieties, is so hot that it can strip paint.erald Fowler, who runs the Chili Pepper Company in Cumbria, England, created the new species, reports the New York Daily … Original source on Gaea Times at : Paint-peeling Naga Viper chili pepper set to become world’s spiciest.

Al-Qaeda planned to use poisoned perfume to kill Saudi govt. officials

LONDON – Al-Qaeda militants planned to kill Saudi government and security officials by using poisoned perfumes to their offices.

The group also “planned to rob banks and companies to finance their operations,” Saudi authorities said on Saturday.

Last month Saudi Arabia said it had captured 149 al-Qaeda militants in recent months who were raising money and recruiting … Read more : Al-Qaeda planned to use poisoned perfume to kill Saudi govt. officials.

Maharashtra govt announces Rs 1000 cr compensation to farmers

NAGPUR – Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan has announced a compensation of Rs 1000 crore to farmers who lost their crops due to untimely rains in the state.

Chavan said that such destructive rainfall affected many areas and farmers of the state.

“According to the figures we have, around 5, 44, 000 hectares of land was affected …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Maharashtra govt announces Rs 1000 cr compensation to farmers.

Five Maoists arrested in West Bengal

KOLKATA – In a major boost to anti-Maoist operation, a Special Task Force (STF) of West Bengal arrested five Maoists including a senior rebel.

Three top leaders and a Maoist supporter were nabbed from Maidan area in Kolkata, and another state committee member was picked up from Howrah railway station.

“Sudip Chongdar (CPI-Maoist state secretary) and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Five Maoists arrested in West Bengal.

Assange bitterly disappointed with Oz Govt over barring his entry to country

CANBERRA – Julian Assange, founder of the whistleblower website ‘WikiLeaks’, still considers Australia his home, but said that the Government of that country is not keen on calling him back following his website’s release of 250,000 confidential US government cables.

Assange also alleged that Australian Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, and the Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, have made … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Assange bitterly disappointed with Oz Govt over barring his entry to country.

Brit man in Bin Laden mask gets cop rap

LONDON – A Brit man has been warned his car could be confiscated after police spotted him driving in an Osama Bin Laden mask.

Stephen Taylor, 54, wore the mask as a joke to get a laugh from some teenagers, but he drove off with it still on, reports the Sun.

Officers clocked him and … Read more »»».

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.

By … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Now, mini WikiLeaks on web, US cautions Switzerland over Assange asylum offer.

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.

Prince William Engagement Photos Released

LONDON (GaeaTimes.com)- The engagement photos of Prince William and Kate Middleton has become the talk of the nation as these photos have made their upcoming nuptials even more official. The royal family spokesperson have already announced that the royal couple will exchange vows on next April in Westminster Abbey in London. The officially [..] Read the original article: here.

Lesbian snaps ties with husband for lover

RANCHI – A 21-year-old woman, who got married last week in Jharkhand, snapped ties with her husband to stay with her woman lover, police said Monday.

Malti, a resident of Sarvodaya Nagar of Chas in Bokaro district, married Shailendra Bharti, 30, of the same district. She revealed to her husband within three days of marriage …. Read the original article  : Lesbian snaps ties with husband for lover.

Air New Zealand cuts gay kiss snub scene from video over complaints

MELBOURNE – Air New Zealand has decided to scrap a scene from an All Blacks-themed in-flight safety video over complaints it received after a gay flight attendant was refused a peck on the cheek.

In the scene, which was found to be offending, coy All Blacks centre Richard Kahui, 25, turns down an opportunity to peck … Original source on Gaea Times at : Air New Zealand cuts gay kiss snub scene from video over complaints.

List of suspects behind John F. Kennedy’s assasination up for grabs

LONDON – A list of suspects that was made by late President John F. Kennedy’s secretary at the time of his assassination is to be auctioned off.

Evelyn Lincoln made the list immediately after Kennedy was gunned down in Texas, and as she mulled over who could have ordered the assassination, she penned her thoughts down … Original source on Gaea Times at : List of suspects behind John F. Kennedy’s assasination up for grabs.

Krishna temple to be built on Moscow outskirts

NEVADA – A new Krishna temple is being planned on the northern outskirts of Russia’s capital Moscow, after authorities allocated a plot for it, according to reports.

Reports suggest that construction on this temple in Vereskino village on Novoskhodnenskoye Highway will begin by December 31, 2012. This is the outcome of petitioning and efforts by International …. Source article  : Krishna temple to be built on Moscow outskirts.

US Senate to vote on key new tax measures for middle class

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate is poised to hold a key vote on Monday on the tax cut deal between President Obama and Republicans, and it is believes that a major portion of the 858 billion dollar tax package will benefit middle- and upper-middle-income Americans.

According to the New York Times, this section of American society …. Read the original article  : US Senate to vote on key new tax measures for middle class.

India’s envoy to UN Hardeep Puri frisked at US airport

NEW DELHI – India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Hardeep Puri, is the latest to be subjected to a pat down, raising the hackles of New Delhi.

Puri, who was subjected to a turban pat down at Houston Airport, was held back for half an hour in a separate enclosure by the authorities.

He refused … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India’s envoy to UN Hardeep Puri frisked at US airport.

Temperature In Mumbai To Dip

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Mumbaikars who are desperately hoping for a few days of relief from the scorching sun are in for a huge treat as weather officials have predicted that cold shivers are all set to arrive in the city any moment. According to the weather office, the temperature in the city would be … Read more : Temperature In Mumbai To Dip.

New violence forces Christians to flee Iraq

WASHINGTON – Thousands of Iraqi Christians have reportedly fled abroad or to northern parts of the country amid a campaign of violence against them and growing fear that the country’s security forces are unable or unwilling to protect them.

On October 31, a siege at a church in Baghdad killed 51 worshipers and 2 priests …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : New violence forces Christians to flee Iraq.

Japan to release new military guidelines to focus more on China

TOKYO – Japan is expected to release new military guidelines to reduce its heavy armoured and artillery forces against Russia in favour of creating more mobile units that could respond to China’s growing presence near its southernmost islands.

The step comes as the United States is making new calls for Japan to increase its military role …. Original source  : Japan to release new military guidelines to focus more on China.

Pak intelligentsia urges Obama to change Afghan strategy

LAHORE – Pakistani academicians, journalists and members of various non-government organizations (NGO) have forwarded a letter to U.S. President Barack Obama, urging him to change America’s strategy in Afghanistan.

According to the Daily Times, they told Obama that the cost of the Afghan war has crossed the 120 billion dollar per year mark for the …. Source  : Pak intelligentsia urges Obama to change Afghan strategy.

Pune Weather: Cold Sweeps City

PUNE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The city of Pune is experiencing a rather cold winter this year with temperatures dropping to as low as 25 degrees Celsius ensuring that the city dwellers really to have to battle it out with the cold shivers. After the sweltering heat that the city is known for, a few days … Read more : Pune Weather: Cold Sweeps City.

Pak clerics warn of protests if blasphemy laws are amended

RAWALPINDI – Religious parties in Pakistan have warned that they will launch a movement called the Tehreek Namoos-e-Risalat (TNR), if the government moves to amend the country’s blasphemy laws.

Talking to reporters here after attending an all parties Namoos-e-Risalat conference here on Sunday, Markazi Jamaat Ahle Sunnat Ameer Pir Atiqur Rehman said that Jamiat Ulema-e-Pakistan …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

51pc parents can’t tell if a kid is obese

LONDON – A poll of almost 1,200 parents has shown that more than half of parents cannot spot a child who is clinically obese.

Third of Britain’s kids are either overweight or obese. But many mums and dads think super-sized kids just carry a small bit of weight – when they are often so huge they … Read more »»».

Indian youth see US colleges as more flexible, life changing: NYT

NEW DELHI – Indian school and college students are reportedly seeing the United States as a viable avenue to pursue higher education after acquiring their bachelor degrees in India.

Higher education institutions in the United States are said to have flexible and diverse courses, besides hands-on experience in the subject of a student’s choice.

There is a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indian youth see US colleges as more flexible, life changing: NYT.

Zardari sends over flowers, get well message to critically ill Holbrooke

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari is reported to have telephoned Mrs. Richard Holbrooke on Sunday night and inquired about the health of her husband, who is US President Barack Obama’s Special Envoy to Pakistan and Afghanistan.

According to the Daily Times, Zardari is said to have sent a flower bouquet and a get-well message … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Zardari sends over flowers, get well message to critically ill Holbrooke.

Be wary of information: Pakistani daily on fake WikiLeaks report

ISLAMABAD – It is in the Pakistani media’s interest “to be a bit wary of the information suppliers that exist outside their pool of trustworthy sources”, a leading Pakistani daily said Monday following a fake WikiLeaks report that India allegedly played a role in destabilizing this country’s Balochistan province.

An editorial in the Dawn Monday …. Source article  : Be wary of information: Pakistani daily on fake WikiLeaks report.

Bad Weather Forces School Closings In Michigan

LANSING (GaeaTimes.com)- Heavy snowfall accompanied by wind and rain have led to school closings in Michigan. It is not only the US state of Michigan whose schools have decided to remain closed. Schools in the adjacent areas of Michigan also chose to cancel classes on Monday after the entire region has been affected by extreme … Read more : Bad Weather Forces School Closings In Michigan.

Horse in art: Packing beauty and power

NEW DELHI – Symbolising power and movement through centuries of kingship, the march of civilisation and modern living, horses remain vital to man’s artistic imagination in the world of contemporary art.

The horse motifs in Indian and Asian art date back to the early Vedic age when migrants from Central and West Asia – from …. Source  : Horse in art: Packing beauty and power.

Dewani honeymoon murder: Husband denies role in 2007 killing

LONDON – A spokesman for British Indian millionaire Shrien Dewani, who has been arrested on suspicion of having his wife, Anni, killed during their honeymoon in Cape Town, South Africa, has denied his involvement in a second killing that took place in 2007.

Rejecting South African National Commissioner General Bheki Cele’s charge that Shrien Dewani …. Source article  : Dewani honeymoon murder: Husband denies role in 2007 killing.

Pak issues demarche to French, German envoys over ‘terror’ remarks against nation

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Foreign Office has conveyed its disappointment over the reported remarks of French President Nicholas Sarkozy and German Chancellor Angela Merkel to the envoys of the two countries.

Both ambassadors were summoned to the foreign office and told of the government’s and the Pakistani public’s …. Read the original article  : here.

Baby boy named after Zardari dies

QUETTA – A baby boy named after Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari, has died of a severe chest infection in a government hospital. He was nine months.

According to The Nation, the boy was born in a motor rickshaw, which was denied passage to … Original article on : Baby boy named after Zardari dies.

Tibet to start its first expressway by May next year

LHASA – Tibet is in the final phase of completing its first expressway, a four-lane road linking Lhasa’s city and Gongkar Airport, and is expected to resume its services in six months.

Xinhua quoted Li Dingkun, leader of the construction team, as saying that …. Read the original article  : Tibet to start its first expressway by May next year.

‘Chinese Premier’s visit to India will smoothen two nations’ trade ties’

BEIJING – Senior Chinese officials have said that Premier Wen Jiabao’s visit to India this week would pave the way for a number of commercial deals, which would eventually smoothen trade relations between the two emerging economies.

Wen is scheduled to visit India from December 15 to 17 before …. Source article  : ‘Chinese Premier’s visit to India will smoothen two nations’ trade ties’.

Advani hits back at PM for parliamentary session washout

NEW DELHI – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader LK Advani on Tuesday lashed out at the Congress-led UPA Government for the Winter Session of the Parliament ending without conducting any business.

Addressing media here on the demand for a Joint …. Original article  : Advani hits back at PM for parliamentary session washout.

Ahmadinejad shows whose boss by sacking Iran’s foreign minister

TEHRAN – Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has fired Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki at a key moment in the country’s nuclear talks with the West.

It comes just days after Iran held crunch talks in Geneva on December 6 and 7 with world powers over its controversial nuclear dossier. Further talks …. Source  : Ahmadinejad shows whose boss by sacking Iran’s foreign minister.

UK’s drive of reaching out to Muslims made ‘little progress’: WikiLeaks

LONDON – The United Kingdom made “little progrss” in reaching out to Muslim communities despite investing “considerable time and resources” after the 7/7 London bombings in 2005, according to classified US diplomatic cables released by whistleblower website WikiLeaks.

According to the … Read : UK’s drive of reaching out to Muslims made ‘little progress’: WikiLeaks.

Owning suicide bomber exposes Pakistan: Indian Army chief

NEW DELHI – Army chief General V.K. Singh said Tuesday the Pakistan Army had exposed its “intentions” by owning up and hailing as a martyr an ISI suicide bomber who died in an Indian hospital in 2007.

“I have nothing to say on what they (the Pakistan Army) has put up on its website. … Read : Owning suicide bomber exposes Pakistan: Indian Army chief.

Chernobyl: Upcoming Tourist Hotspot?

CHERNOBYL, UKRAINE (GaeaTimes.com)- Ukraine government has said that it is going to make the restricted Chernobyl power plant adjacent regions into tourist hotspots. In 1986 the Nuclear reactor at the power plant exploded killing 32 workers and many others later succumbed to the radiation related ailments and infections. The Chernobyl disaster is remembered …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chernobyl: Upcoming Tourist Hotspot?.

Tallest Mountain In Africa Thwarts Martina Navratilova

NAIROBI, AFRICA (GaeaTimes.com)- Legendary tennis player Martina Navratilova’s attempt to climb the tallest mountain in Africa namely Mount Kilimanjaro turned out to be partially successful as she had to quit the ride midway owing to health problems. She was admitted to a hospital in Nairobi after recovering from pulmonary edema which was caused by …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Tallest Mountain In Africa Thwarts Martina Navratilova.

Now, ‘Brit Govt websites could be hacked in Wikileaks revenge attacks

LONDON – Britain’s national security adviser has warned that Wikileaks supporting computer hackers could target sites containing British taxpayers’ data.

The Telegraph quoted Sir Peter Ricketts as telling senior civil servants that Whitehall should be prepared to come under fire from “hacktivists” who are …. Source article  : Now, ‘Brit Govt websites could be hacked in Wikileaks revenge attacks.

German man castrates 17-yr-old daughter’s 57-yr-old beau with bread knife

SYDNEY – A man in Germany became so enraged with his daughter dating a man 40 years older than her that he castrated the boyfriend with a bread knife.

According to the Telegraph, Helmut Seifert, 47, had complained to the police in Bielefeld, north-west Germany, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : German man castrates 17-yr-old daughter’s 57-yr-old beau with bread knife.

US envoy pays tribute to Holbrooke

NEW DELHI – United States Ambassador to India, Timothy J. Roemer, today paid tribute to Ambassador Richard Holbrooke, whom he described as a consummate diplomat and a close friend, who dedicated his almost fifty years of public service to bringing peace to the world.

Ambassador Roemer remembered Ambassador Holbrooke as a tireless worker with boundless energy … Read : US envoy pays tribute to Holbrooke.

New Japanese defense strategy to focus more on China, N. Korea

TOKYO – Japan’s proposed new military plan will be designed to address the increased threat from China.

According to the Washington Post, Japan’s National Defense Program Guidelines will be released this month.

The guidelines are expected to de-emphasize the concern about a Russian invasion from the north, and instead will call for mobile units to move …. Source article  : New Japanese defense strategy to focus more on China, N. Korea.

Minneapolis Public Schools Shut

MINNEAPOLIS (GaeaTimes.com)- With the heavy blizzard that parts of the U.S. state of Minnesota has been experiencing for the past few days, many public schools in the various districts have been shut owing to the unfavorable weather conditions. Over the weekend, the city of Minneapolis encountered heavy snowfall which dumped as much as 17 … Original source on Gaea Times at : Minneapolis Public Schools Shut.

Vitamin D deficiency widespread across India

WASHINGTON – The results of various studies show severe Vitamin D deficiency across India and Pakistan in all age groups, as well as insufficiency in populations of South-East and East Asia.

Bone health experts attending the 1st Asia-Pacific Osteoporosis Meeting in Singapore this week have flagged vitamin D deficiency as a major concern in the region, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Unlawful killing of newborns ‘5 times higher than thought’

LONDON – A new research has found that the true incidence of neonaticides – the unlawful killing of a baby within the first 24 hours of its life – is more than five times as common as official estimates suggest.

Low maternal self esteem and emotional immaturity, rather than obvious mental illness or social disadvantage, are …. Source article  : Unlawful killing of newborns ‘5 times higher than thought’.

Incarcerated Madoff will not attend son’s funeral, says lawyer

NEW YORK – Ponzi king Bernie Madoff will not attend his son Mark’s funeral.

Instead Bernie, who is serving a 150-year prison sentence at a federal prison in North Carolina, will mourn privately in his prison cell, reveals his lawyer.

“Mr. Madoff will not be attending the funeral out of consideration for his daughter-in-law’s and grandchildren’s privacy,” … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Incarcerated Madoff will not attend son’s funeral, says lawyer.

The slightly less Leaning Tower of Pisa after 8-year makeover

LONDON – The Leaning Tower of Pisa finally got its beauty back after it was cleaned and partially straightened in an eight-year restoration project.

Restorers used chisels and hi-tech laser technology to scrub grime from the more than 24,000 blocks of stone that make up the 183ft tall tower, reports the Telegraph.

The world famous monument …. Read the original article  : The slightly less Leaning Tower of Pisa after 8-year makeover.

Wikileaks founder Assange appeals for his release in UK

LONDON – ‘Wikileaks’ founder Julian Assange, who was arrested in the London for sexually assaulting two women during his stay in Sweden, has reportedly appealed to the Westminster magistrates court to release him

The Guardian quoted Raj Joshi, a former head of the European and international division at the CPS, and an expert on extradition, …. Original article  : Wikileaks founder Assange appeals for his release in UK.

World’s worst nuclear accident site to become tourism hotspot

MELBOURNE – Chernobyl, an abandoned city in northern Ukraine where the world’s worst nuclear accident happened, could now become a tourism hotspot.

Ukraine’s Emergency Situations Ministry have started working on a plan to open the area around the defunct plant where …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : World’s worst nuclear accident site to become tourism hotspot.

Brit grad lands dream job by setting up own website to advertise talents

LONDON – A graduate in Britain has landed his dream job after he set up his own website to advertise his talents.

Kyle Clarke, 23, a Newcastle University graduate was fed-up with wading through application forms so he decided to do set up employkyle.com, which he hoped would get …. Source  : Brit grad lands dream job by setting up own website to advertise talents.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao arrives in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao arrived here today on a three-day state visit.

The visit is expected to boost trade relations between India and China, the two emerging economies of the world.

He will visit the Tagore International School in Vasant Vihar here in the second half of the day, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao arrives in Delhi.

South Korea holds biggest civil defence drills

SEOUL – South Korea Wednesday conducted its largest civil defence drill since these began 35 years ago after a deadly North Korean artillery attack on a South Korean island last month.

South Koreans rushed to air raid shelters and other underground facilities, such as subway stations, as air raid sirens sounded across the country, the …. Source  : South Korea holds biggest civil defence drills.

Money was behind Kashmir protests: Militant leader

JAMMU – A heavy flow of money was behind the stone-pelting protests in Kashmir last summer, according to a top militant leader who was believed to be instigating the stir in the valley.

Hardline Hurriyat leader Masarat Alam, who became an icon for protesters, has told interrogators that he spent Rs.40 lakh to organise … Read : Money was behind Kashmir protests: Militant leader.

Pakistan Army seeks $525 mn additional funds

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Army has sought an additional Rs.45 billion (about $525 million) to meet security requirements, an official said.

Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani’s economic team, led by Finance Minister Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, has told him about the “prevailing grave economic situation” and the challenges in bridging the ever-widening “gap between national income …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

North Korea ready for six-party talks: China

BEIJING – China has claimed gaining North Korea’s support for easing regional tensions and attending emergency six-party talks on Korean Peninsula’s nuclear program.

According to Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu, State Councilor Dai Bingguo, who visited Pyongyang last week, reached these important agreements with the North’s top leader Kim Jong-il.

“The DPRK side has agreed with the …. Source  : North Korea ready for six-party talks: China.

US Air Force blocks media sites posting leaked ‘Wikileaks’ documents

WASHINGTON – The United States’ Air Force has reportedly blocked access on its network to over 25 media websites, which have posted secret U.S. diplomatic cables obtained and released by the whistleblower website ‘WikiLeaks’.

Fox News quoted Major Toni Tones, a spokeswoman for the Air Force Space Command, as saying that the Air Force uses two …. Source  : US Air Force blocks media sites posting leaked ‘Wikileaks’ documents.

Indian Army awaiting CBI inputs on Adarsh probe

NEW DELHI – The Indian Army said Wednesday it was waiting for inputs from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to complete its probe into Mumbai’s Adarsh housing society scam in which some retired and serving officers are under the scanner for allegedly cornering flats meant for families of war heroes.

“The inquiry (into the …. Read the original article  : here.

2G scam: CBI raids Tamil NGO close to Kanimozhi

CHENNAI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday raided the office of Tamil Maiyam, an NGO in which Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi’s daughter and MP Kanimozhi is on the Board of Directors, in connection with the 2G scam.

CBI slueths also conducted raids at the residence of former Relecom Minister A.Raja’s brother and sister … Read more : 2G scam: CBI raids Tamil NGO close to Kanimozhi.

Indian-origin man wins $100K for being the ‘Biggest Loser’

KUALA LUMPUR – An Indian-origin man in Singapore has won 100,000 US dollars after he was crowed as the winner of ‘The Biggest Loser Asia 2′, a popular weight-loss reality TV series.

Vivega-nandam Deveraj (Raj), 24, lost 67kg from his starting weight of 144kg, making him the contestant with the highest percentage of weight loss (46.53 …. Source article  : Indian-origin man wins $100K for being the ‘Biggest Loser’.

Escort claims Shrien Dewani paid him for kinky sex sessions

LONDON – An escort has come forward to tell cops that British care home tycoon Shrien Dewani, who is suspected of having his wife murdered while honeymooning in South Africa, had paid him for kinky sex.

Dewani, 30, is suspected of hiring hitmen to kill his wife Anni, 28, and as part of the investigation cops …. Source article  : Escort claims Shrien Dewani paid him for kinky sex sessions.

HMS Ambush Set To Roll

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM (GaeaTimes.com)- The UK Navy is gearing up to launch its largest ever nuclear submarine with impressive arsenal and combat capabilities. The HMS Ambush is powerful enough to hit enemy targets 1600 km away with fire guided missiles. The huge submarine comes with a powerful nuclear reactor that is capable of providing …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : HMS Ambush Set To Roll.

‘Strong action’ against Adarsh wrongdoers: Antony

NEW DELHI – Assuring strong action against those found guilty in Mumbai’s Adarsh housing scam, Defence Minister A.K. Antony Wednesday said the government was probing the scandal in which some serving and retired armed forces officers are under the scanner for alleged wrongdoing.

Antony Wednesday said nobody, including armed forces personnel, found guilty in the … Read more »».

Kiwi man and his American wife win ‘world’s best couple’ title

WELLINGTON – A New Zealand man and his American wife has won the title of the “world’s best couple”.

Auckland couple Cameron and Shariyah Morris was presented a 22-carat diamond ring worth 1 million dollars by US reality TV celebrity Kim Kardashian, in New York, reports Stuff.co.nz.

Thousands of couples from the US, Canada, Australia and New …. Read the original article  : Kiwi man and his American wife win ‘world’s best couple’ title.

TTP planning terror attacks on Muharram processions through IEDs

LAHORE – The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is reportedly planning to launch terrorist attacks by changing motorcycles into improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on Muharram-related processions and Majalis, especially in Lahore.

Sources said that the Punjab Chief Minister’s Secretariat had on December 6, sent a special report of intelligence agencies to all district police officers in the province, …. Original source  : TTP planning terror attacks on Muharram processions through IEDs.

US appoints Frank Ruggiero as new Af-Pak special envoy

WASHINGTON – Deputy U.S. Special Envoy for Afghanistan and Pakistan, Frank Ruggiero, has been appointed as the acting US Special Envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan following the death of Richard Holbrooke.

“He (Ruggiero) will lead the SRAP (Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan) structure that Richard Holbrooke constructed and will really serve as one of …. Source article  : US appoints Frank Ruggiero as new Af-Pak special envoy.

Bare-chested Assange named Rockstar of the Year by Italy’s Rolling Stone

LONDON – WikiLeaks boss Julian Assange has added another feather to his cap – the mastermind has been dubbed Rockstar of the Year by Italy’s Rolling Stone magazine for his rock and roll lifestyle.

The magazine cover shows Assange bare chested in front of a row of TV’s each showing his face and below is the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Bare-chested Assange named Rockstar of the Year by Italy’s Rolling Stone.

Pak links up with China’s Kashgar ahead of Premier Jiabao’s visit

KARACHI – Pakistan and China have inaugurated the first air cargo service linking Islamabad with Kashgar in China’s northwest Xinjiang province, just three days before the visit of Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao to the Pakistan capital.

A Pakistan charter airline, Rayyan Air, operated the first 90-minute flight, the Asia Times web site has revealed.

The …. Original article  : Pak links up with China’s Kashgar ahead of Premier Jiabao’s visit.

US wants Pak action against Al-Qaeda-linked terrorists in North Waziristan

ISLAMABAD – US Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman, Admiral Mike Mullen, has urged Pakistan to launch an operation to crack down on Al-Qaeda-linked terrorists in North Waziristan.

“They are weakening the American-led military effort in the nine-year-old Afghanistan war against the Taliban and Al-Qaeda, and they are killing Pakistani civilians as they seek to undermine the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indian Army remembers fallen heroes of 1971 Battle of Basantar

MATHURA – The Indian Army Thursday remembered its fallen heroes in the 1971 war with Pakistan by celebrating a hard-won victory in a fierce tank battle of Basantar in western sector.

The next of kin of two winners of the Param Vir Chakra – the highest war-time gallantry award – were felicitated at the ceremony …. Original article  : Indian Army remembers fallen heroes of 1971 Battle of Basantar.

Pak holds nuclear weapons to ensure peace, stability: General Wynne

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (JCSC) Chairman, General Khalid Shameem Wynne, has said that the country is compelled to maintain strong conventional forces backed up by nuclear weapons because of its regional environment.

“Our nuclear … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pak holds nuclear weapons to ensure peace, stability: General Wynne.

China stops short of endorsing India’s permanent UNSC seat bid

NEW DELHI – China on Thursday stopped short of endorsing India’s bid for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

Recognizing common interests and similar concerns on major regional and international issues, India and China decided to enhance … Original source on Gaea Times at : China stops short of endorsing India’s permanent UNSC seat bid.

Two Brit Muslim converts killed in drone attacks in Pakistan

LONDON – Two British Muslim converts working for al Qaeda have been killed in a drone attack in Pakistan’s mountainous region, according to reports.

The militants, who were aged 48 and 25 and using the pseudonyms Abu Bakr and Mansoor Ahmed, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Two Brit Muslim converts killed in drone attacks in Pakistan.

Nigeria drops corruption charges against Cheney after oil firm agrees to pay fine

LONDON – Nigeria has dropped corruption charges against former US Vice-President Dick Cheney, after Halliburton, the oil firm he used to run, agreed to pay 250 million dollars in fines, according to reports.

The bribe scandal concerned the construction of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant in …. Read the original article  : Nigeria drops corruption charges against Cheney after oil firm agrees to pay fine.

Pilot recalls bombing mission in 1971 liberation war

DHAKA – A pilot who deserted the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) to fight the Bangladesh liberation war in 1971 Thursday recalled having bombed the Chitttagong port and damaging two Pakistani ships, while flying a transport aircraft lent by the Indian Air Force (IAF).

In a midnight mission dubbed “Operation Kilo”, Flight Lt. Shamsul Alam took …. Original source  : Pilot recalls bombing mission in 1971 liberation war.

Apparition of Virgin Mary spotted on side of apartment building in US

LONDON – Residents of an apartment building in a city in the US have reported seeing an apparition of the Virgin Mary, which they believe is a sign for them to mend their ways.

New Braunfels in Texas, which has a population of just over 50,000, is notorious for its high unemployment levels, poverty and crime, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Apparition of Virgin Mary spotted on side of apartment building in US.

India, China identify new opportunities to realize vast potential for future growth

NEW DELHI – Expressing satisfaction over the growing quantum of bilateral trade and investment ties, India and China on Thursday agreed to further broad base and balance trade and economic cooperation, and identify new opportunities to realize the vast potential for future growth.

Towards this objective, both sides agreed to establish a Strategic Economic Dialogue …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : India, China identify new opportunities to realize vast potential for future growth.

Having sex more often ‘could ruin your marriage’

LONDON – Think having sex with your partner would improve you married life? Well, you may want to reconsider that idea after reading this.

Rosie, who tried indulging in sex for a complete month, every day, found herself unhappy for the first time in eight-year relationship, reports the Daily Mail.

Being a journalist, she experimented to have …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Having sex more often ‘could ruin your marriage’.

Al-Qaeda repeats call to take revenge over Pak neuroscientist’s US sentencing

DUBAI – Al-Qaeda has repeated calls to avenge Pakistani neuroscientist Aafia Siddiqui, who was sentenced to 86 years in prison by a US federal court for trying to kill American agents and military officers after Afghan police detained her in 2008.

In a video published by US-based SITE Intelligence Group, Al-Qaeda leader Abu Yahya …. Source  : Al-Qaeda repeats call to take revenge over Pak neuroscientist’s US sentencing.

China looking to build mutual trust, cooperation with India: Wen Jiabao

NEW DELHI – China is looking to build mutual trust and cooperation with India, said the country’s visiting Premier Wen Jiabao on Thursday.

In an opening statement ahead of bilateral level talks between the two countries, Premier Wen said: “Ihope my visit promotes the deepening of mutual trust and cooperation” with India.

He further went on …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : China looking to build mutual trust, cooperation with India: Wen Jiabao.

India, China reiterate desire to resolve boundary question through talks

NEW DELHI – India and China on Thursday reiterated their firm commitment to resolve outstanding differences, including the boundary question at an early date through peaceful negotiations.

In a joint communiqu??? issued after bilateral discussions at Hyderabad House here, both countries reiterated that the resolution of the boundary question is one of the ten-pronged strategies …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

China welcomes India’s decision to introduce Chinese as foreign language

NEW DELHI – Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on Thursday welcomed a decision by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) of India to introduce Chinese as a foreign language in the curriculum of schools in India from the next academic session.

In a joint communiqu??? issued after bilateral discussions at Hyderabad House here, Premier Wen …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : China welcomes India’s decision to introduce Chinese as foreign language.

Swiss bank orders female staff to wear loose-fitting skirts, flesh-coloured undies

LONDON – One of the world’s top investment banks has issued a 44-page dress code to its staff, and it includes female workers being ordered to wear loose-fitting skirts and flesh-coloured underwear.

The guidance from Swiss firm UBS was very clear in specifying that flashy jewellery, coloured artificial nails, tight skirts and coloured underwear are not …. Original source  : Swiss bank orders female staff to wear loose-fitting skirts, flesh-coloured undies.

Bad Weather Leads To School Closings In Georgia

ATLANTA (GaeaTimes.com)- Many schools remained closed on Wednesday in North Georgia and Atlanta following bad weather conditions in the region. School closings were decided by the school authorities keeping in mind the cases of accidents that are very common on the roads owing to extreme weather condition. The region has been steeped in snow and … Read more >>.

Family pawns children for a loan

LUCKNOW – Poverty has driven a family in an Uttar Pradesh village to give away their three children in bondage against a loan of Rs.42,000.

The children have to now toil for 12 hours a day to make up for the loan taken by the family, a distraught relative said.
This followed a request by …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US seeks to build case for conspiracy by WikiLeaks

WASHINGTON – Federal prosecutors in America are seeking to build a case against the WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange for his role in the huge dissemination of classified government documents.

According to the New York Times, they are looking for evidence of any collusion in his early contacts with an Army intelligence analyst suspected of leaking the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

WikiLeaks reveals Thai leaders doubt suitability of prince becoming king

LONDON – Three senior members of Thailand’s powerful privy council, a group of advisers appointed by the king, have made clear their preference for an alternative to Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, who is considered a political liability because of his extra-marital affairs in several European countries.

According to diplomatic cables leaked by the whistle blowing web site … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : WikiLeaks reveals Thai leaders doubt suitability of prince becoming king.

Guyanese-American Muslim jailed for life over JFK Airport fuel plot

NEW YORK – A Guyanese-American Muslim, who was one of the two men convicted for plotting to blow up fuel tanks at New York’s John F Kennedy Airport, has been sentenced to life in prison.

A US District Court judge said the plan involving Abdul Kadir, a former member of Guyana’s parliament, would have caused “unimaginable” …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Guyanese-American Muslim jailed for life over JFK Airport fuel plot.

Fines, not death, top worry for speeding drivers: Oz study

MELBOURNE – A Queensland University study has found that speeding drivers are more concerned about getting caught than being hurt or killed.

Judy Fleiter, from the Centre for Accident and Road Safety Research, says a survey of 800 Queensland drivers show they lack regard for the risk speeding poses to their personal safety, reports the Age.

Fleiter …. Original source  : Fines, not death, top worry for speeding drivers: Oz study.

Chinese cotton buyers visit Rajkot to buy Shankar 6 variety

RAJKOT – Chinese cotton buyers visited Gujarat’s Rajkot city to buy the famous Shankar 6 variety of cotton.

Shankar 6 variety of cotton is famous worldwide and it is a major product of the Saurashtra region.

A Chinese buyer said there is an increased demand of the Shankar 6 variety in China.

“China textile may …. Read the original article  : Chinese cotton buyers visit Rajkot to buy Shankar 6 variety.

Media sensationalised border issue, says Wen Jiabao

NEW DELHI – The Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on Friday said the media exaggerated the boundary issue between India and China.

Interacting with journalists and artists here, Wen stressed that the media should play a more constructive role in enhancing friendly …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chinese Premier calls on opposition leader Sushma Swaraj in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao met Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj here on Friday.

They discussed a range of issues during their brief meeting.

On Thursday, the Chinese Premier met Indian Vice President Hamid Ansari.

Later, he also called on Congress party president Sonia Gandhi.

He reiterated that India and … Read more : Chinese Premier calls on opposition leader Sushma Swaraj in Delhi.

We don’t condone torture, says Omar on Kashmir WikiLeaks

SRINAGAR – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Friday said his government doesn’t condone torture as he refused to comment on the WikiLeaks expose on the systematic abuse of detainees in the troubled state.

“I am not getting into it…It pertains to 2005 and you know who was in power that time,” Abdullah said, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indian-origin man jailed over sex with 14-year-old girl in Australia

MELBOURNE – An Indian-origin man living in Australia has been jailed after he had sex with a 14-year-old girl during an afternoon of drinking.

A man named Steven Handros, 19, had contacted the victim and her friend through the Internet social networking site Myspace, the Victorian County Court heard, reports News.com.au.

Last September Handros and his friend …. Read the original article  : Indian-origin man jailed over sex with 14-year-old girl in Australia.

Oz to review strict student visa program following drastic drop in Indian enrolments

SYDNEY – Australia’s Tertiary Education Minister Chris Evans has announced that a review of the international student visa program will be conducted following which changes may be carried out to prop up the ailing sector.

The decision comes after it was revealed that international student commencements to September 2010 were down 9.3 per cent on last …. Source article  : Oz to review strict student visa program following drastic drop in Indian enrolments.

Stockholm suicide bomber could have had helping hands: Swedish investigators

STOCKHOLM – Swedish officials have claimed that Taimour Abdulwahab al-Abdaly, the suicide bomber who blew himself up on a Stockholm street full of holiday shoppers, was likely to have been helped by others in preparing for the attack.

Following the incident, investigators had said that Al-Abdaly, an Iraqi-born Swede, had apparently acted alone during the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

America is ready to elect a gay president: Jimmy Carter

NEW YORK – Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter says America is ready to elect a gay president.

And the 39th president predicts it will happen in ‘near future’.

“I think the entire population of America has come tremendous strides forward in dealing with the issue of gays,” the New York Daily News quoted him as telling the …. Original article  : America is ready to elect a gay president: Jimmy Carter.

Magnetic bras could spell end for tricky hooks

MELBOURNE – The battle to fasten and unfasten lingerie using those tricky bra hooks seems to have come to an end – thanks to magnets.

A British department store has unveiled a hi-tech line of lingerie that stays on.

Selfridges will soon sell a collection of French lingerie in which the fastenings are replaced with tiny, invisible … Original article on : Magnetic bras could spell end for tricky hooks.

India conveys its concern to China over terrorism emanating from Pakistani soil

NEW DELHI – The Centre has conveyed serious concern over terrorism emanating from Pakistani soil to the Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao who will be reaching Islamabad today.

Wen Jiabao was told in Delhi that stability can come to this region only when forces of terrorism are defeated.

Interacting with mediapersons here on Thursday, Foreign …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Brit man breaks world’s quickest meat pie eating record in 23.91 seconds

MELBOURNE – A man in Britain has become the quickest eater of meat pies after he broke the world record in 23.91 seconds.

Neil Collier won The World Pie Eating Championships at Harry’s Bar on December 14 in Wigan, England, by eating the saucer-sized meat pie in an incredible 23.91 seconds, smashing the previous record of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Muharram Marked By Curfew In Srinagar

SRINAGAR, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- With Muharram being observed all over the world on Friday, in Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir, the occasion would be observed amidst heightened security with curfew being imposed in parts of the city. The fact that curfew would be active in many parts of Srinagar on Muharram was announced …. Read the original article  : here.

Bangladesh to honour 226 Indians for support in 1971 ‘Liberation War’

NEW DELHI – Bangladesh will honour 226 Indians for their crucial support during the country’s 1971 ‘Liberation War’, as it marks the 40th Victory Day anniversary next year.

Bangladesh will honour some 500 foreigners, which includes 226 Indians.

“The cabinet approved the proposal to accord reception to distinguished foreign nationals and organisations for their extraordinary contribution …. Source article  : Bangladesh to honour 226 Indians for support in 1971 ‘Liberation War’.

New MIC Chief G. Palanivel to discuss ‘issues affecting Indian community’ next week

KUALA LUMPUR – The newly-appointed Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) President G. Palanivel would reportedly hold a meeting with his central working committee members next week to discuss issues affecting the Indian community.

The Star quoted Palanivel as saying that the discussions would concentrate on dealing with issues like uniting the Indians, bringing in more professionals into …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chinese Premier Jiabao heads to Pakistan to boost trade

NEW DELHI/ISLAMABAD – Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao left for Pakistan on Friday for a three-day visit aimed at boosting trade and investment by finalizing 20 billion dollars worth of deals.

Accompanied by a huge business delegation, Premier Wen will be the first Chinese head of government to visit the nuclear-armed country in the last five years.

According … Original article on : Chinese Premier Jiabao heads to Pakistan to boost trade.

Vaikuntha Ekadasi celebrations in Trichy

TRICHY – Devotees took part in a grand procession in Tamil Nadu’s Trichy District that marked the beginning of the festival of Vaikuntha Ekadasi on Friday.

Thousands of devotees seek blessings of Lord Vishnu who is also known as Ranganathan, at the Ranganathaswamy temple.

“Today we are all here, gathered to pray (to) the God Ranganathan. He … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Vaikuntha Ekadasi celebrations in Trichy.

UK Defence Secretary cancels Lanka trip over Colombo’s war crimes complicity

LONDON – Suggestions surfacing in US diplomatic cables leaked by the whistle blowing web site WikiLeaks that the Sri Lanka Government precipitated war crimes against the minority Tamil population at the height of the war against the LTTE, has prompted British Defence Secretary Liam Fox to abandon plans for a private visit to the island … Read more >>>.

Pak “not fast enough” in uprooting terror havens along Afghan border region:Obama

WASHINGTON – Pakistan’s progress in rooting out terrorists has “not come fast enough”, and so the United States will continue insisting it to deal with the terror havens within its borders, US President Barack Obama has said.

“We will continue to focus on our relationship with Pakistan. Increasingly, the Pakistani government recognizes that terrorist networks …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pak “not fast enough” in uprooting terror havens along Afghan border region:Obama.

Brit-Indian honeymooner was refunded wife’s return airfare following her murder

LONDON – Shrien Dewani, the Brit-Indian millionaire whose wife was killed during their honeymoon, was reportedly refunded Anni’s return air fare days after her murder in South Africa.

The Sun quoted a BA source as saying that a proportion of the cost of his wife’s business class ticket was paid back after a call …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Brit-Indian honeymooner was refunded wife’s return airfare following her murder.

Weather Conditions Lead To School Closings In Virginia

RICHMOND (GaeaTimes.com)- On Thursday many schools and colleges in Virginia were shut down due to the extreme weather conditions that the region is currently experiencing. The heavy snowfall accompanied by constant rain that is freezing, the school authorities opted for school closings. It has not been confirmed as to when will the classes will be …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Weather Conditions Lead To School Closings In Virginia.

Obama’s war strategy in Afghanistan has “failed”: Taliban

ISLAMABAD – Taliban insurgents have dismissed the review of United States President Barack Obama’s war strategy in Afghanistan, saying it has failed on both military and the civil administration fronts.

In an e-mailed statement, Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said the last nine years of war had proven that …. Source  : Obama’s war strategy in Afghanistan has “failed”: Taliban.

Six Hindu temples nominated for World Heritage List

NEVADA – Six Hindu temples in Indonesia, Thailand and Nepal have been nominated to be certified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Sukuh Hindu Temple and Penataran Hindu Temple Complex in Indonesia, Temples of Phanomroong and Muangtam in Thailand, and Rishikesh Complex [..] Read the original article: here.

Germany to pay over 50 million pounds to preserve World War II death camp

LONDON – Germany is to pay over 50 million pounds to help preserve the Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp in Poland, where 1.1 million Jews were exterminated during the Second World War.

According to the Telegraph, the money will help preserve the rotting watchtowers, barracks and other buildings that testify to the greatest … Read : Germany to pay over 50 million pounds to preserve World War II death camp.

Fidel Castro obsessed with “impressive” Obama: Wikileaks

WASHINGTON – Former Cuba President Fidel Castro had an obsession for US President Barack Obama, and praised him as a “very good communicator” with “impressive working capacity”, according to Secret US diplomatic cables.

The Guardian quoted the cables as saying that Castro, who had seen …. Original source  : Fidel Castro obsessed with “impressive” Obama: Wikileaks.

London shop worker claims to be Marilyn Monroe in past life

NEVADA – Now a shop assistant of Islington area of Greater London (UK) claims that he was 20th century American icon Marilyn Monroe in past life, according to reports.

Chris Vicens, 26, reportedly says that Monroe was murdered in her pool house and claims to have … Read more : London shop worker claims to be Marilyn Monroe in past life.

WikiLeaks faces ‘very aggressive’ investigation by US: Assange

LONDON – WikiLeaks faces a “very aggressive” and secretive investigation by American authorities stung by a perceived loss of face following the release of thousands of classified US diplomatic cables, the whistleblower website’s founder, Julian Assange, …. Source  : WikiLeaks faces ‘very aggressive’ investigation by US: Assange.

‘Temple’ inside San Diego Museum

NEVADA – San Diego Museum of Art (SDMA) in California (USA) has established a “Temple” within its premises, complete with statues of various Hindu deities.t “marks the culmination of a twenty-year-long effort on the part of the curators and administration”, according to a Museum announcement.

With … Read : ‘Temple’ inside San Diego Museum.

Kids who sing, dance ‘are more likely to engage in cultural activity as adults’

LONDON – A new Scottish Government research has found that people are more likely to take part in cultural activities as adults if they are encouraged to participate as children.

Also, youngsters who are encouraged to read for pleasure are more than …. Source  : Kids who sing, dance ‘are more likely to engage in cultural activity as adults’.

‘Pak Army paid wages to terror group Lashkar-e-Toiba’

WASHINGTON – The Pakistan Army “paid wages” to terror organisation Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) and sustained it, according to a diplomatic cable unveiled by whistle-blower website WikiLeaks.

According to the January 2009 cable, the then Indian Foreign …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Pak Army paid wages to terror group Lashkar-e-Toiba’.

Stockholm suicide bomber’s ‘wife was not aware about his hidden intentions’

LONDON – The father-in-law of Stockholm suicide bombings suspect, Taimour al-Abdaly, has insisted that his daughter had nothing to do with the terrorist attack.

Abdaly had detonated a car bomb in Stockholm’s busiest pedestrian street on December 11 when it was filled with hordes …. Source  : Stockholm suicide bomber’s ‘wife was not aware about his hidden intentions’.

I’m not so hoity-toity, says Sarah Palin while defending TLC show

NEW YORK – Sarah Palin has hit back at criticism that her reality TV show doesn’t help her efforts to appear presidential.

“Oooh, I’m sorry I’m not so hoity-toity,” The New York Daily News quoted Palin as saying in a faux-British accent on …. Source article  : I’m not so hoity-toity, says Sarah Palin while defending TLC show.

‘Prayerful’ about 2012 presidential run, says Sarah Palin

WASHINGTON – Sarah Palin has said that she’s in ‘prayerful consideration’ about running for president in 2012.

In an exclusive interview with ‘Good Morning America’, the former Alaska Governor said she was unfazed with the poll numbers and if she were to run, she would ‘be in it to win it’.

A recent … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘Prayerful’ about 2012 presidential run, says Sarah Palin.

Woman in Singapore tries to board bus in the buff

KUALA LUMPUR – A woman stunned onlookers in Singapore when she tried boarding a bus in the buff.

According to Sin Chew Daily, she took off her clothes and put them in a bag as she was approaching a bus stop near an apartment block, reports the Star …. Read the original article  : here.

Cosmetic surgeon in UK caught performing sex act for dominatrix

LONDON – A prominent cosmetic surgeon in Britain has been caught on tape performing a sex act on himself just after he gave a Botox injection to a German dominatrix.

The General Medical Council was told that dominatrix Marion Burton a.k.a. Mistress … Original article on : Cosmetic surgeon in UK caught performing sex act for dominatrix.

Pakistan shifted emphasis away from India border, says US

WASHINGTON – Pakistan was shifting its emphasis away from its eastern border with India, a decision it had taken on its own because of a “definite shift” in Islamabad’s military posture brought about by fundamental changes within the country, the US has said.

It said while it does want Islamabad to act more aggressively …. Read the original article  : here.

Nikumaroro Island: Bone Fragments Found

NORMAN (GaeaTimes.com)- The International Group for Historic Aircraft Recovery (TIGHAR) group has discovered three bone fragments that might prove that renowned aviator Amelia Earhart died after failing in her 1937 quest. The fragments of the bones are recovered from South Pacific island on the group’s expedition to Nikumaroro Island. University of Oklahoma scientists said … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nikumaroro Island: Bone Fragments Found.

Meet UK’s youngest parents-aged 14

LONDON – A pair of school kids, both aged 14, have become UK’s youngest parents.

April Webster delivered a boy after getting pregnant when she and the child’s father Nathan Fishbourne were just 13.

“I’m going to be a great mum,” the Sun quoted Webster of Caerphilly, South Wales, as saying.

At the moment the four-week-old child, Jamie, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Meet UK’s youngest parents-aged 14.

Ukrainian billionaire spending 4m pounds on his 50th b’day bash

LONDON – A Ukrainian billionaire is celebrating his 50th birthday in style, for he is spending more than 4 million pounds on his birthday bash in the French ski resort of Courchevel.

Viktor Pinchuk, the steel magnate and modern art collector, whose fortune Forbes estimates stands at 3.1 billion dollars (2 billion pounds), is sparing no …. Original source  : Ukrainian billionaire spending 4m pounds on his 50th b’day bash.

‘Al Qaeda’s branch AQIM gaining stronghold in North Africa’

WASHINGTON – A video obtained from North African security services has revealed some of the first images of Al Qaeda’s growing African branch known as Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb or AQIM.

The revelation has come as the peace talks, mediated by the United Nations, continue in New York between Morocco and Polisario Front officials over … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Al Qaeda’s branch AQIM gaining stronghold in North Africa’.

Sudan’s President Bashir transferred ‘$9bn in UK banks’: Wikileaks

LONDON – Sudan’s President Omar al-Bashir had transferred at least nine billion dollars of oil money from his country to banks in London, according to secret US diplomatic cables released by the whistleblower website ‘Wikileaks’.

The Guardian quoted prosecutor Luis Moreno-Ocampo as telling the US officials that some of the funds might be held by the … Read more »».

Indian Air Force Gets First C-130J Aircraft

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Indian Air Force (IAF) got a major impetus earlier this week when it received the delivery of the first batch of the C-130J military transport aircraft from United States. IAF officials have reiterated that the state-of-the-arty aircrafts would be deployed along the outskirts of New Delhi to reduce the …. Original article  : Indian Air Force Gets First C-130J Aircraft.

Weather girl denies using word ‘rape’ while telling cops about attack

NEW YORK – TV weather babe Heidi Jones has claimed that when she told cops about her alleged attacked, she never used the word rape.

“The press accounts that say she alleged rape or attempted rape are inaccurate,” the New York Post quoted her attorney, Paul Callan, as saying.

He declined to say what Jones told …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Weather girl denies using word ‘rape’ while telling cops about attack.

RSS similar to Hitler’s Nazi troops: Digvijay Singh

BURARI – Congress General Secretary, Digvijay Singh said on Sunday compared the right-wing Rashtriya Swayam Sewak Sangh (RSS) to German dictator Adolf Hitler’s Nazi troops.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the 83rd plenary session of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), Singh said RSS workers were involved in the 2008 Malegaon blast case that …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : RSS similar to Hitler’s Nazi troops: Digvijay Singh.

Jihadi ‘joker’ turns television host with ‘The Zaky Mallah Show’

SYDNEY – The first person charged and acquitted under Australia’s anti-terrorism laws, Zaky Mallah, has now become a television host.

The 27-year-old, once deemed at risk of becoming a suicide bomber, said the first people he rang to tell of his idea to become the “next Jerry Springer” was the spy agency ASIO.

“They were laughing,” the … Read more »»».

Mum in UK cuts out heart of 4-year-old daughter as ‘religious offering’

LONDON – A mother in UK has been arrested for brutally killing her four-year-old daughter as an apparent religious offering.

Nusayba Bharuchi’s corpse was found stabbed to death in the kitchen with her heart and other organs cut out and strewn around her flat and lying next to her mother, Shayna.

The 35-year-old woman was allegedly chanting …. Read the original article  : Mum in UK cuts out heart of 4-year-old daughter as ‘religious offering’.

Air NZ slogan ‘fares lower than grandma’s boobs’ branded ‘tacky’

MELBOURNE – A billboard advertisement in Nelson for Air New Zealand’s Grabaseat with the slogan, “Fares lower than your grandma’s boobs” has been accused of being ageist, tacky and disrespectful to women.

The airline is now removing the billboard that advertises its cheap seat site.

Stop Demand Foundation, which campaigns against sexual violence and abuse, requested the …. Read the original article  : here.

Goa Liberation Day Being Observed Today

PANAJI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Goa is all set to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of its liberation day. Fifty years ago, on the same day, the state became a part of India, with the help of the Indian army, who brought an end to the colonial rule of the Portuguese in the state.
Golden Jubilee celebrations of … Read more : Goa Liberation Day Being Observed Today.

US approves withdrawal of “don’t ask, don’t tell” ban in military

WASHINGTON – The US Senate has reportedly approved a legislation allowing gay people to serve openly in the military.

According to the BBC, senators voted 65-31 to overturn the 1993 “don’t ask, don’t tell” law, which bars gays in the military from revealing their sexual orientation.

The Democrats, who still control both house of Congress, have said … Original article on : US approves withdrawal of “don’t ask, don’t tell” ban in military.

I’d consider a post in the Obama Administration, says Arnie

NEW YORK – Arnold Schwarzenegger wants to be a part of US President Barack Obama’s Administration.

The California Governor told the Los Angeles Times that he’d consider a post in the leader’s Administration and began listing his credentials, reports the New York Daily News.

The Republican governor said he could use his “celebrity power and also my …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Prince Harry reveals how mum’s charity work inspired him

LONDON – Prince Harry has spoken about the influence his late mother Diana, Princess of Wales, and father, the Prince of Wales, have had on his charity work.

His comments came ahead of a visit to Berlin where he was expected to be honoured for his humanitarian and charity work with an award presented live on …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Congress is opposed to fundamentalism of all shades: Sonia Gandhi

NEW DELHI – Congress President Sonia Gandhi on Sunday said the party is opposed to fundamentalism of all shades-whether by majority or minority organisations.

Addressing the party’s 83rd plenary session at Burari in northwest Delhi, Gandhi said: Congress is opposed to fundamentalism of all shades. Both are dangerous and should be tackled.”

She also said Congress …. Source  : Congress is opposed to fundamentalism of all shades: Sonia Gandhi.

Sri Lanka lifts ban on UN war crimes team

COLOMBO – The Sri Lankan government has reportedly given permission to a team of UN investigators to visit the island to carry out investigations into alleged war crimes in the final stage of the government’s war with Tamil Tiger rebels in 2009.

The government had earlier denied visas to the three-member team named in June … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Sri Lanka lifts ban on UN war crimes team.

Brit-Indian honeymooner’s kin claim Dewani attempted to trace wife after abduction

LONDON – Relatives of the Brit-Indian businessman whose wife was killed during their honeymoon in Cape Town have spoken of his ‘frantic’ attempts to trace her after she was kidnapped.

The Daily Mail quoted them as saying that Dewani rang a mobile phone … Read more : Brit-Indian honeymooner’s kin claim Dewani attempted to trace wife after abduction.

N. Korea accuses US of goading S. Korea into provocation

Pyongyang (N.Korea), – North Korea has accused the United States of goading South Korea into provoking it.

The country’s official news agency KCNA, quoted a spokesman of the North Korean Foreign Affairs Ministry, as saying that Washington’s support of Seoul’s plan to hold firing …. Source  : N. Korea accuses US of goading S. Korea into provocation.

Ebenezer Scroggie to be recognised for his place in literary history

LONDON – Scottish merchant Ebenezer Scroggie, who inspired one of the most famous Christmas characters of all time, is all set to be recognised for his place in literary history.

The hugely successful Edinburgh merchant was renowned as much for his generosity and jovial nature as his wild parties.

But a misreading of his gravestone … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ebenezer Scroggie to be recognised for his place in literary history.

Palestinian state possible by 2011, says its PM

WASHINGTON – Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Salam Fayyad has told the Israelis that there is a change in the Palestinian mindset, and suggested that the dream of a Palestine State could be realized in 2011 if all sides are “fully committed to non-violence.”

Fayyad, in a Channel 2 interview taped last … Read more >>>.

‘Most Brits want to see Prince William as next king’

LONDON – Most Britons would like to see Prince William become the country’s next king, rather than his father Prince Charles, who is next in line, according to a report.

However, this is not going to happen, as courtiers believe that Prince Charles is determined …. Source article  : ‘Most Brits want to see Prince William as next king’.

Parents ‘limiting kids’ Internet access and TV use in identical ways’

WASHINGTON – A new study has revealed that parents are now restricting their kids’ Internet access in much the same way as they limit television viewing as a form of punishment.

According to a new survey by the Center for the Digital Future, at the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism … Read more : Parents ‘limiting kids’ Internet access and TV use in identical ways’.

Kashmir interlocutors visit Poonch

POONCH – The three interlocutors appointed by the Central Government to talk to a cross section of society and various communities in three different regions of Jammu and Kashmir, visited Poonch to get a sense of the problems faced by the people of the region.

Two of the three interlocutors, journalist Dileep Padgaonkar and former Central …. Read the original article  : here.

Nitish Kumar flags off new passenger train in Bihar

PATNA – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has flagged off a new passenger train here, and appealed to the people of the state to protect trains and public property.

“I would like to request you all to please cooperate with the railway authorities, buy tickets and travel, do not stop trains unnecessarily. I even want to …. Original article  : Nitish Kumar flags off new passenger train in Bihar.

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.

Plot to blow up UK Parliament unearthed

LONDON – Terror suspects were planning to bomb the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament, but the attempt was foiled successfully.

The men, arrested in raids at houses in Birmingham, Stoke, Cardiff and London, had already carried out scouting missions.

Sources … Read more »»».

Lutheran Church welcomes Hindu leader on Christmas Eve

NEVADA – In a remarkable interfaith gesture, Hindu statesman Rajan Zed was welcomed by a Lutheran Church in Nevada (USA) on Christmas Eve, where he attended the Christmas Eve Candlelight Celebration.

Senior Pastor Carl F. Wilfrid of Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd in …. Original article  : Lutheran Church welcomes Hindu leader on Christmas Eve.

Lahore Fort facing decay, laments Pakistani daily

ISLAMABAD – The Lahore Fort, which is a “16th-century jewel of Mughal architecture and has but one rival in the subcontinent the Agra Fort” in India, is facing decay, a leading Pakistani daily has said.

An editorial in the Dawn Monday said that a wedding function on the historical Lahore Fort premises “by a party …. Original source  : Lahore Fort facing decay, laments Pakistani daily.

NATO-Pak to hold ‘more hammer and anvil operations’ on Pak-Afghan border: Petraeus

KHOST – The commander of International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan, General David Petraeus, has said that there will be more coordinated military operations on both sides of the Afghanistan-Pakistan border.

Petraeus said that there had already been coordinated operations, with Pakistani forces on one side and NATO and Afghan troops on the other.

“We want …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : NATO-Pak to hold ‘more hammer and anvil operations’ on Pak-Afghan border: Petraeus.

Obama pays surprise Christmas visit to Marines in Hawaii

NEW YORK – Third year in a row, the US President Barack Obama paid a surprise visit to a Marine base to show gratitude to the troops for their sacrifices, including being away from their families during holidays.

The president, along with his wife, Michelle Obama, spent more than an hour shaking hands and hugging service … Read more : Obama pays surprise Christmas visit to Marines in Hawaii.

UN Secretary General condemns ‘abhorrent attack of terrorism’ in Pak

NEW YORK – United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has condemned Saturday’s “abhorrent attack of terrorism” in Pakistan, in which a female suicide bomber killed 46 people queuing to receive food aid.

“The Secretary General was appalled to learn about a terrorist attack outside the WFP food distribution centre in Khar,” the Daily Times quoted his … Original article on : UN Secretary General condemns ‘abhorrent attack of terrorism’ in Pak.

Two arms suppliers to West Bengal Maoists nabbed in Lucknow

LUCKNOW – The Uttar Pradesh police seized arms believed to be meant for Maoist rebels in West Bengal in a raid here on Sunday.

Acting on a tip, the STF (Special Task Force) of Uttar Pradesh intercepted a car in which arms were being smuggled.

Two arms suppliers were traveling in the car.

During the operation, one accomplice …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Maoists kill CRPF constable in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) trooper was killed and two others injured in an attack by Maoists in the jungle areas of Chhattisgarh’s restive Bastar region.

The gun battle took place when the Maoists had blocked the way to Karalpaul and were surveying the vehicles on that way.

Some CRPF soldiers alerted their … Read : Maoists kill CRPF constable in Chhattisgarh.

Gujjars call for Ajmer shutdown

NEW DELHI – Gujjars have called for a shutdown in Ajmer on Monday after talks with Rajasthan Government remained inconclusive.

The State Energy Minister Jitendra Singh held first round of discussion with the Gujjar community headed by their leader Kirori Singh Bainsla on Sunday night.

Both the sides described talks as positive but they could not arrive … Read more »»».

Mumbai Police issues look out notice for Lashkar terrorist

MUMBAI – The Mumbai Police on Monday issued a look-out notice for one of the four terrorists who are suspected to be holed up in the city to carry out strikes during the New Year.

The Police are suspecting that the suspect Mahfooz Alam might be planning to leave the city today, following which the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mumbai Police issues look out notice for Lashkar terrorist.

Nevada Governor honors Hindu leader for “exemplary” interfaith work

NEVADA – Well known religious statesman Rajan Zed has been honored by Nevada (USA) Governor with a certificate for his work in interfaith dialogue.

Certificate of Appreciation signed by Nevada Governor and presented to Rajan Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, states: “For exemplary service in building a dialogue between the various faiths …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nevada Governor honors Hindu leader for “exemplary” interfaith work.

Brazilian woman declared dead by hospital wakes up in funeral parlour

LONDON – A Brazilian woman, who was declared dead at a hospital, escaped being buried alive when she woke up in a funeral parlour hours before she was to be interred.

Maria Das Dores Conceicao, 88, had arrived at the hospital in a very critical state, and after she received treatment, the doctors decided that they … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Brazilian woman declared dead by hospital wakes up in funeral parlour.

Andhra Congress demands setting up of Telangana State

HYDERABAD – The State unit of the Congress in Andhra has supported the demand for the formation of a Telangana State and some members of the State Congress said on Monday that they were prepared to quit their posts for the cause and also went on a “Gandhian fast”.

The demand comes just days before …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Andhra Congress demands setting up of Telangana State.

For Brit ladies, the perfect man is handsome, clever, rich and funny!

LONDON – A new survey has revealed that British women prefer their perfect boyfriend to be tall, blue-eyed, and muscular with a hairy chest. But the list doesn’t end there.

He must also be good looking, clean shaven with short dark hair, have a small bottom and take care of his body, reports the Daily Express.

But …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : For Brit ladies, the perfect man is handsome, clever, rich and funny!.

Legal system discriminates against Christians: Bishop of Winchester

LONDON – Bishop of Winchester Michael Scott-Joynt has claimed that Human Rights Act may be protecting the rights of minority groups, but is also encouraging judges and politicians to discriminate against Christians in an increasingly secular society.

According to the Daily Mail, the bishop said that while he ‘generally welcomed’ the Human Rights Act, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Legal system discriminates against Christians: Bishop of Winchester.

UN suspends food aid in Pak following suicide attack till situation stabilizes

PESHAWAR – The World Food Program (WFP), the food aid branch of the United Nations, has temporarily shut down operations in the northwest region of Pakistan following a suicide bombing that killed 46 people in one of its depots in Bajaur.

“Our staff will resume its work as soon as the situation normalizes,” the Wall … Original article on : UN suspends food aid in Pak following suicide attack till situation stabilizes.

Nawaz accuses Muttahida Qaumi Movement of killings in Karachi

LAHORE – Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) chief Nawaz Sharif has accused the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) of killing innocent people in Karachi.

“Is it a revolution that MQM leader Imran Farooq is murdered in London and dozens of people are killed in Karachi in its reaction?” the Daily Times quoted Nawaz, as saying.

Farooq …. Source article  : Nawaz accuses Muttahida Qaumi Movement of killings in Karachi.

Karzai urges Pakistan to ‘eliminate terrorists’

KABUL – Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai has urged Islamabad to “spare no effort in eliminating” those responsible for the suicide attack on a World Food Programme (WFP) depot in Pakistan, which killed 46 people and wounded 80 others.

“I strongly condemn this attack and I ask the Pakistani government to spare no efforts in eliminating these … Read more : Karzai urges Pakistan to ‘eliminate terrorists’.

Third US aircraft carrier during naval drill to up Korean Peninsula crisis: Analyst

SEOUL – South Korea’s announcement to start naval drills from Monday and the prospects of the US sending another aircraft carrier to the region, is bound to intensify tension on the Korean Peninsula, claim analysts.

China Daily quoted South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff as saying that eoul military plans to stage live-fire drills … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Third US aircraft carrier during naval drill to up Korean Peninsula crisis: Analyst.

US still views silent Haqqani network as most dangerous of Taliban fighters

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration continues to view the so-called Haqqani terrorist network as the deadliest group of Taliban fighters in Afghanistan despite it not having conducted a complex large-scale attack on Kabul for seven months.

According to the New York Times, Washington still grudgingly acknowledges the resiliency of Haqqani fighters, and does want to go … Read more : US still views silent Haqqani network as most dangerous of Taliban fighters.

Nelson Mandela’s ex Winnie to have her own opera

LONDON – Nelson Mandela’s former wife Winnie Madikizela-Mandela is all set to have her own opera.

South Africa’s ‘mother of the nation’ parted ways with Mandela in 1992 after an infidelity scandal.

She was found guilty of over 40 charges of fraud in 2003, was allegedly involved in several human rights abuses and has always been …. Source article  : Nelson Mandela’s ex Winnie to have her own opera.

Former Brit Foreign Secretary Miliband may be offered US envoy post

LONDON – Former British Foreign Secretary David Miliband could reportedly be offered the post of ambassador in Washington.

Downing Street believes that Miliband, who is still recovering from being beaten to the Labour leadership by his brother Ed, has the skills and abilities to hold the position.

According to The Guardian, some cabinet members have proposed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Former Brit Foreign Secretary Miliband may be offered US envoy post.

Oz woman smashes window of taxi after driver rejects sex offer

MELBOURNE – A woman in Darwin, Australia, has been arrested after she kicked a taxi she entered and smashed its window just because the driver refused to have sex with her.

According to the Northern Territory News, the woman had suggested to the driver that they have … Read more >>.

E-divorce on the rise as Oz couples go online to end marriages

ADELAIDE – Australian couples seeking divorce are now increasingly doing it through the Internet, with more than 250 people using an online service in almost 18 months.

The Federal Magistrates Court introduced its “e-filing” separation option in September 2009, allowing spouses … Read more »».

Royal family accused of cruelty for wearing real fur

MELBOURNE – The Queen and duchess have been accused of “ostentatious display of cruelty” after they were seen wearing real fur.

The two and other members of the royal family wore Russian-style hats made from various fox furs to a church service in Sandringham, …. Original source  : Royal family accused of cruelty for wearing real fur.

Activists, civil leaders protest against conviction of Binayak Sen

KOLKATA – Social activists continued to protest against the conviction of human rights crusader Dr. Binayak Sen across India.

Dr. Binayak Sen, an activist, was convicted of sedition under the Chhattisgarh Special Public Security Act for his alleged links with Maoist guerrillas on Friday.

Activists and civil society leaders …. Source article  : Activists, civil leaders protest against conviction of Binayak Sen.

Prince Harry gifts 1K pounds diamond bracelet to ex Chelsy Davy for Christmas

LONDON – It seems Prince Harry still has a soft corner for his ex girlfriend Chelsy Davy – he gave her a 1,000-pound diamond bracelet for Christmas.

The 26-year-old also called Davy on Christmas morning.

According to a source close to Davy, 25, she was “surprised and delighted” at the … Original article on : Prince Harry gifts 1K pounds diamond bracelet to ex Chelsy Davy for Christmas.

Prince Harry gifts ???1K diamond bracelet to ex Chelsy Davy for Christmas

LONDON – It seems Prince Harry still has a soft corner for his ex girlfriend Chelsy Davy – he gave her a 1,000-pound diamond bracelet for Christmas.

The 26-year-old also called Davy on Christmas morning.

According to a source close to Davy, 25, she was “surprised and delighted” at the white gold gift and wondering if there …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Prince Harry gifts ???1K diamond bracelet to ex Chelsy Davy for Christmas.

Fasting Andhra Congress MPs refuse to let go

HYDERABAD – The fasting Congress MPs from Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday made it clear that they will not call off their protest until all police cases against the students are withdrawn.

“We will not call off our Satyagraha till the government withdraws all the cases against the students,” Congress Rajya Sabha member …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Deaf Malaysian draws Assange’s portrait

KUALA LUMPUR – TIME magazine’s year-end cover picture of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has been done by a deaf Malaysian artist.

New York-based Leon Lim’s portrait artwork of Assange appears on TIME’s latest issue (Dec 27-Jan 3) that recognises individuals or groups who made the news over the past year.
Lim, who has never met …. Original article  : Deaf Malaysian draws Assange’s portrait.

Nurses in Bhopal ask for better wages

BHOPAL – Around 2,500 nurses in government hospitals of Madhya Pradesh struck work on Monday, demanding a hike in salary and improvement in working conditions, even as the State government invoked the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) on nursing services for three months.

Outside the main government hospital in Bhopal, members of the nurses’ association shouted …. Source article  : Nurses in Bhopal ask for better wages.

Expert finds Bush’s memoir faulty over ‘UN resolution’ explanation on Iraq war

WASHINGTON – Former US President George W Bush’s memoir “Decision Points” might have been straightforward, honest, and fair even while pointing out his own mistakes on big matters, but the explanation to his willingness of launching the Iraq invasion without a second U.N. Security Council resolution was not correct, according to a report by Politico.

Bush … Read more >>.

Over 350,000 fatwas expected to be issued by end of 2010

DUBAI – Over 350,000 fatwas, or Islamic religious decrees, are reportedly expected to be issued by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowmen (Awqaf) by the end of the year.

The New York Post quoted The National, a Dubai based English language newspaper, as saying that the Fatwa Centre at Awqaf issued the edicts … Read more >>>.

Pune shutdown: Agitators damage eight city buses

PUNE – A Shiv Sena-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) sponsored Pune shutdown to protest the removal of the statue of Dadoji Kondadev, considered the mentor of Shivaji, began on a violent note on Tuesday with agitators vandalised eight buses in different parts of the city.

The Saffron alliance had given a call for a shutdown after …. Read the original article  : Pune shutdown: Agitators damage eight city buses.

‘580 Chinese fugitives still at large in foreign countries’

BEIJING – Meng Qingfeng, head of Chinese economic crime investigation department under the Ministry of Public Security, has said that a total of 580 fugitives suspected of economic crimes are still at large in foreign countries, while most others are fleeing to North America and Southeast Asia.

The China Daily quoted Qingfeng as saying that … Read : ‘580 Chinese fugitives still at large in foreign countries’.

Gujjar agitation enters 9th day today

NEW DELHI – The deadlock over quota talks between the Rajasthan government and Gujjar protesters continues as the agitation enters its ninth day on Tuesday.

Gujjar leaders have said they will go ahead with their December 29 Mahapanchayat and have threatened to shut down the National Capital Region (NCR). This comes at a time when the …. Original source  : Gujjar agitation enters 9th day today.

Digvijay Singh lashes out at RSS

MUMBAI – Senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh lashed out at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), saying that its leaders are involved in various conspiracies.

Talking to reporters here on the sidelines of a function, Digvijay Singh said Swami Asimanand, who is accused of Mecca Masjid blast, is the man who has plotted all the conspiracies and … Read : Digvijay Singh lashes out at RSS.

UK schools ‘using CCTV to spy on pupils in toilets and changing rooms’

LONDON – An official report has claimed that many schools in UK are using CCTV cameras to spy on pupils in toilets and monitor teachers’ performance in the classroom.

The report by the Information Commissioner’s Office said that the use of video surveillance has evolved in recent years from a security measure to a tool to … Read more »»».

95pc Brits still trust unannounced visitors

LONDON – It’s not uncommon for visitors to throng at our doorsteps, especially during festive seasons – now a survey has found that an astonishing 95 per cent of Britons still trust unannounced callers.

The survey of 1,063 people by BT’s local network business Openreach found that Londoners less open to strangers than people in other …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 95pc Brits still trust unannounced visitors.

Mythical ‘goat sucker’ chupacabra shot by US man

LONDON – A fabled blood-sucking creature called chupacabra was shot and killed in Lebanon Junction, Kentucky, after it emerged from woodland into the garden of a home.

It’s equally plausible that the animal is just a raccoon but the animal, which has large ears, whiskers and a long tail, has sparked intense debate on the internet, …. Source  : Mythical ‘goat sucker’ chupacabra shot by US man.

A photograph and a marriage

LONDON – A British woman rummaging through a box found a 23-year-old photograph in which she was standing next to a boy – and realised that it was her husband whom she had not known then.

Stephanie Faulkner and husband James didn’t know each other when the photograph was clicked at a Christmas fair.
They … Read more »».

Indiana woman under investigation for having links to international terrorists

WASHINGTON – Kathie Smith, a Muslim-convert U.S. citizen living in Indianapolis, is reportedly under investigation for her possible ties to suspected and convicted international terrorists.

According to Fox News, the 46-year-old woman married a suspected German jihadist last year, and has been flying back and forth between the U.S. and Germany as from the past two [..] Read the original article: here.

Zardari orders Sindh CM to address all reservations shown by MQM

KARACHI – In a bid to pacify the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), one of the coalition partners at the Centre as well as the Sindh government, President Asif Ali Zardari has ordered Sindh Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah to address all reservations shown by the party.

In a meeting with Zardari at Bilawal House, Sindh Governor …. Source article  : Zardari orders Sindh CM to address all reservations shown by MQM.

US worried joint-military drills with South Korea will worsen Korean peninsula situation

WASHINGTON – The US is reportedly worried that its joint-military drills with Seoul and the recent threat of war by South Korean President Lee Myung-bak to the North could lead to problematic situation in the peninsula.

According to The Washington Post, although several U.S. officials defended Seoul’s plans, Joint Chiefs of Staff Vice Chairman … Original article on : US worried joint-military drills with South Korea will worsen Korean peninsula situation.

Obama’s popularity rising, Palin’s falling for 2012 Presidential elections: Poll

WASHINGTON – Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin’s efforts to gain publicity for the 2012 presidential election through television is not really working out that well, as her popularity with Republicans has slipped below that of three other potential candidates, while Obama’s standing with Democrats is improving, according to a new poll.

The CBS news quoted the … Original article on : Obama’s popularity rising, Palin’s falling for 2012 Presidential elections: Poll.

Thomas Hardy’s home to be opened in full to the public

LONDON – The country home where late British novelist and poet Thomas Hardy wrote some of his best known works is set to be opened in full to the public for the first time.

Hardy had designed Max Gate in Dorchester, Dorset, by himself and it is where he played host to the luminaries of his … Read more : Thomas Hardy’s home to be opened in full to the public.

Same-sex parents ‘are more egalitarian than heterosexual parents’

SYDNEY – A new survey has shown that when it comes to dividing household tasks and parenting responsibilities, same-sex partners are more egalitarian than heterosexual parents.

Where lesbian couples are concerned, the mother who carries the baby and breastfeeds it, is not assumed to be the parent who will stay at home or be the main … Read more : Same-sex parents ‘are more egalitarian than heterosexual parents’.

At least seven militants killed in Pak tribal region

ISLAMABAD – At least seven insurgents were killed when security forces attacked militant hideouts in Pakistan’s Kurram tribal region.

Several militants were also reportedly injured when forces targeted their hideouts using gunship helicopters in central Kurram, the Dawn reports.

Two militant hideouts were also destroyed in the action. (ANI)
… Read more : At least seven militants killed in Pak tribal region.

American born radical cleric al-Awlaki linked to UK terror plot

WASHINGTON – Anwar al-Awlaki, an American born radical Yemeni cleric who is reportedly the first American on CIA’s capture or kill list, is linked to nine suspects in an alleged terror plot in Great Britain.

According to Fox News, the nine suspects were taken to a British court on Tuesday under heavy guard.

According to a … Read more >>>.

Pak-US relations remain stable despite many ups and downs: Mushahid Syed

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan enjoys stable relations with the United States despite many ups and downs during the year 2010, renowned analyst-cum-journalist and chairman of the Pak-China Institute and Regional Think Tank, Mushahid Hussain Syed, has said.

Talking to VOC, Mushahid said that there remained mutuality of interests on both sides, especially with reference to Afghanistan.

He said …. Source article  : Pak-US relations remain stable despite many ups and downs: Mushahid Syed.

Unseen childhood portraits of the Queen to go on display next year

LONDON – Previously unseen childhood portraits of the Queen and the late Princess Margaret from the late Queen Elizabeth’s personal collection are to go on public display for the first time next year.

The photographs, which include some of the most informal studio portraits ever taken of the princesses with their parents, are among more than … Read : Unseen childhood portraits of the Queen to go on display next year.

Human excreta, skinny jeans, adult films ’selling like hot cakes in N.Korea’

NEW YORK – Skinny jeans, adult films and even human manure were among some of the must-have items for North Koreans, according to a South Korean professor who has interviewed recent defectors from the communist country.

Kim Young-soo, a political science professor at Seoul’s Sogang University, said at a conference on Tuesday that these items were … Read more »».

China stepping up ‘carrier killer,’ missile tests, warns US expert

BEIJING – U.S. Navy Admiral Robert F. Willard has warned that China is designing a space missile that could sink American aircraft carriers in the Pacific.

The Daily Mail quoted Willard as saying that he believes the Chinese anti-ship ballistic missile programme has achieved ‘initial operational capability.’

Stressing that China wants to become a ‘global military … Read more : China stepping up ‘carrier killer,’ missile tests, warns US expert.

German chemical tanker with 19 Indians freed by Somali pirates

MOGADISHU – Somali pirates have reportedly released a German-owned chemical tanker having 19 Indians, two Bangladeshis and a Ukrainian lonboard, after allegedly receiving a 5.5 million dollars ransom money.

According to the BBC, pirates armed with rocket-propelled grenades seized the Marida Marguerite in May.

Andrew Mwangura, head of the Kenya-based East African Seafarers’ Assistance Programme, has …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : German chemical tanker with 19 Indians freed by Somali pirates.

LeT, TTP among insurgents teaming up to counter security forces in Pak, Afghanistan

WASHINGTON – Increased cooperation among insurgent factions is being reported inside both Afghanistan and Pakistan, as US and NATO officials said they had seen evidence of loose cooperation among militant organizations, including Lashkar-e-Taiba and Tehrik-i-Taliban.

Insurgent groups have increasingly been teaming up inside Pakistan, where many of the extremist organizations are based or where their leaders …. Read the original article  : here.

Security stepped up in Mumbai ahead of New Year’s Eve

MUMBAI – Following reports that a cell of militants have entered to disrupt the festive season, Mumbai Police beefed up security.

Police officials tightened security across the city through stringent checks.

Several CCTV cameras have been specially installed at busy traffic intersections and key strategic locations in Mumbai.

According to intelligence inputs, four suspected militants belonging to Lashkar-e-Taiba … Original source on Gaea Times at : Security stepped up in Mumbai ahead of New Year’s Eve.

Flight operations in Delhi remain normal

NEW DELHI – Flight operations at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport remained normal for the second day today due to absence of dense fog.

According to Airport officials, though the airport witnessed fog at night and in the morning the runway visibility was good enough for smooth operations.

They said there were no cancellations …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Flight operations in Delhi remain normal.

PLA militant arrested in Imphal

IMPHAL – Security forces arrested a wanted militant of the People’s Liberation army (PLA) here on Tuesday.

Acting on a tip, the Manipur police along with 39 Assam Rifles apprehended the militant from a rented accommodation.

“Following that information, 39 Assam Rifles and police commandos jointly carried out an operation. From a rented house we have apprehended … Original source on Gaea Times at : PLA militant arrested in Imphal.

Vigilance increased along LoC in Kashmir to check infiltration

POONCH – Security personnel in Kashmir have intensified vigilance along the Line of Control (LoC) as they fear infiltration to pick up with the melting of snow at high altitudes.

The Indian Army has stepped up patrolling along the fence and have equipped its units with high-tech devices like powerful night-vision goggles to check any attempts … Read : Vigilance increased along LoC in Kashmir to check infiltration.

Terror alert in Karnataka, police beef up security

BANGALORE – Karnataka has been put on high alert following an intelligence input about Bangalore being under terror threat.

Following a high-level meeting between the Chief Minister B. S. Yeddyurappa and senior police officials, elaborate security arrangements have been put in place in time for New Year’s Eve.

“Based on the inputs and the instructions the Chief … Read : Terror alert in Karnataka, police beef up security.

Ex-Israeli president convicted of rape

TEL AVIV – Former Israeli President Moshe Katsav has been convited by a court here on two counts of rape.

Katsav was convicted Thursday of raping an employee when he was a Cabinet minister. It is the most serious criminal charge ever brought against a high-ranking official and … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ex-Israeli president convicted of rape.

Obama bypasses Congress, appoints six key officials

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has bypassed Congress, and made six key appointments, including that of James Cole as Deputy Attorney General and Robert Ford as the country’s new ambassador to Syria.

According to the Washington Post, Ford is the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chidambaram invites Buddhadeb for discussion on Bengal situation

NEW DELHI – Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Thursday invited West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee to discuss prevailing situation in his state.

Chidambaram has sent two letters today in … Read more : Chidambaram invites Buddhadeb for discussion on Bengal situation.

New Parliament could worsen ethnic, Pashtun tensions in Afghanistan

KABUL – Afghan and foreign officials have warned that the inauguration of a new Parliament in the next few weeks could worsen ethnic tensions and instability in Afghanistan and drive an important part of President Hamid Karzai’s political base into the arms of the insurgency.

Parliament elections …. Source article  : New Parliament could worsen ethnic, Pashtun tensions in Afghanistan.

Telangana issue: Srikrishna Committee meet to finalise report

NEW DELHI – Ahead of the submission of its report to the Centre, Justice B N Srikrishna Committee on the Telangana statehood issue on Thursday held its last meeting to finalise the contents of the much-awaited report.

The five-member committee met for over two hours at the Vigyan Bhavan here.

The … Read more >>.

Britain planned to help Afghan resistance after Soviet invasion

LONDON – Britain had planned to assist the Afghan resistance just weeks after the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, reveal secret documents that show a top official negotiating how to channel covert military aid to the guerrillas battling the Russians.

The Guardian reported Thursday that barely three weeks after the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Britain planned to help Afghan resistance after Soviet invasion.

MWM accuses govt, secret agencies of victimising Shias

LAHORE – The Majlis Wahdat Muslemin (MWM) has accused the government and secret agencies of victimising the people belonging to the Shia school of thought, and warned that pushing one community to the wall can bring dangerous results to Pakistan.

Addressing a press … Read more »»».

Citibank fraud: Manager surrenders in Gurgaon

GURGAON – Citibank manager Shivraj Puri, accused of cheating investors of around Rs. 400 crore, surrendered in Gurgaon on Thursday.

Puri, who worked at the bank’s Gurgaon branch as a relationship manager, is accused of siphoning money from 20 accounts of high net worth individuals. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Citibank fraud: Manager surrenders in Gurgaon.

Forget divorce settlement, ‘break-up payment’ is the latest trend

LONDON – A new trend has come up whereby live-in couples are paying tens of thousands of pounds in settlement to their former partners after break-up.

The ‘break-up payments’ are becoming increasingly common as more and more couples are living together for several years without marrying.

The legalities involved can be chaotic, as unlike a marriage …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Forget divorce settlement, ‘break-up payment’ is the latest trend.

Americans want to pardon Billy the Kid after 130yrs

LONDON – After 130 years, most Americans say they favour a pardon for legendary gunslinger Henry McCarty, known as Billy the Kid, a new survey has revealed.

New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson’s office had set up a website and e-mail address to take comments on a possible posthumous pardon for one of the most famous Old … Read : Americans want to pardon Billy the Kid after 130yrs.

India needs to challenge China more, say experts

NEW DELHI – Following the mid-December visit of Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao to India to secure business deals, announce new trade goals and offer reassurances of friendly Chinese intentions, experts are of the view that while this a healthy step forward between the two Asian giants, there are issues such as the trade imbalance, the …. Source article  : India needs to challenge China more, say experts.

Freed militant commander wanted to target Pak nukes

LAHORE – Qari Saifullah Akhtar, the al-Qaeda-linked ameer of the Harkatul Jehadul Islami (HUJI), has been freed by Pakistan’s Punjab government under mysterious circumstances despite the fact that he is still wanted in several high-profile cases of terrorism, including conspiracy to target Pakistan nukes.

Saifullah’s most significant target was to blow up the Chashma Nuclear … Original article on : Freed militant commander wanted to target Pak nukes.

US says ties with Pak will be affected over reports of disappearances

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration has expressed alarm over reports that thousands of political separatists and captured Taliban insurgents have disappeared into the hands of Pakistan’s police and security forces, and that some may have been tortured or killed.

The issue came up in a State Department report to Congress last month that urged Pakistan …. Original article  : US says ties with Pak will be affected over reports of disappearances.

China most likely to be affected by 2011 EU herbal medicine ban

LONDON – The European Union has decided to go ahead with its ban of herbal medicines, a majority of which is manufactured in China.

Hundreds of herbal remedies will be banned from sale in Britain next year. From May 1, 2011, traditional herbal medicinal products must be licensed or prescribed by a registered herbal practitioner to …. Read the original article  : China most likely to be affected by 2011 EU herbal medicine ban.

Shibu Soren supports Maoists, says Maoism a ‘people’s movement’

KOLKATA – Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Shibu Soren has termed the Maoist movement as a people’s movement and said that he supports the rebel’s cause.

“I will certainly not support the killings but I support the (Maoist) movement. It is people’s movement. Even I have led a movement. There are people in favour of the movement …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Shibu Soren supports Maoists, says Maoism a ‘people’s movement’.

Cold wave kills two in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – Two persons died in different parts of Uttar Pradesh as the cold wave prevailed in most parts of the state, taking the toll to 13 this season.

One person each died in Maharajganj and Ballia overnight. Temperature has dropped by several degrees in Gorakhpur and Varanasi division with heavy fog in the morning … Read more : Cold wave kills two in Uttar Pradesh.

Almost 50pc of Brit workers are fed up in their jobs

LONDON – A new study has found that only six per cent of British workers are completely satisfied with their jobs.

Almost half of those polled admitted that they regularly feel unhappy during the working week.

A slightly more cheerful quarter said they only feel unhappy about work once in a while. But two-thirds admitted their job …. Read the original article  : Almost 50pc of Brit workers are fed up in their jobs.

UK’s 2nd Hindu school to admit non-Hindus also

NEVADA – Proposed Krishna-Avanti Primary School (KAPS) in Evington (Leicester, East Midlands, UK), when it opens in September, will be based on “Hindu ethos” but will admit pupils of non-Hindu faiths also, according to reports.

With continuous growth, this second Hindu state school in United Kingdom (UK) plans to provide 420 places for 4-11 years old … Read : UK’s 2nd Hindu school to admit non-Hindus also.

China leaves West dismayed by move to cut vital mineral exports in 2011

LONDON/BEIJING – In a sign of its growing industrial and political clout, China has cut its export quotas for rare earth elements (REEs) by 35 per cent for the first six months of 2011, threatening to extend a global shortage of the minerals and intensifying a scramble to find alternative sources.

Instead of last year’s 22,282 …. Source  : China leaves West dismayed by move to cut vital mineral exports in 2011.

Meet the world’s tallest model at 6ft 8in!

LONDON – Amazon Eve, who is the world’s tallest model at 6 feet 8 inches, is living the high life these days.

She is traveling across the globe showing off her giant frame.

Before November last year, the 31-year-old model was completely unknown until a magazine put her in a bikini on the front cover – … Read : Meet the world’s tallest model at 6ft 8in!.

Seoul names chief of national crisis management body

SEOUL – South Korea’s president Friday named Ahn Kwang Chan, a retired Army policy specialist, to head a newly formed crisis management office, set up after perceived shortfalls in dealing with security threats from North Korea.

Ahn, 54, served as head of the defence ministry’s policy bureau and as deputy chief of military strategy …. Original source  : Seoul names chief of national crisis management body.

Malaysian Govt. to set up special counters for Indian community’s identification

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Human Resources Minister Dr S. Subramaniam has said that special counters would bet set up in the country to process identification problems faced by the Indian community.

The Star quoted him as saying that the government would launch a “My Daftar” campaign nationwide from February 19 to 26.

“We would be identifying individuals [..] Read the original article: here.

Afghanistan-based US troops’ families bear brunt of deployment strains

WAUTOMA – The impact of the Afghanistan war is not limited to the soldiers deployed there, but extends to their families back home, who bear the brunt of the psychological and emotional strain of deployments.

The work of war is very much a family affair, as nearly 6 in 10 of the US troops deployed today … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Afghanistan-based US troops’ families bear brunt of deployment strains.

World’s first surviving septuplets celebrate turning 13

LONDON – The world’s first surviving septuplets celebrated their 13th birthday recently.

Kenny, Alexis, Natalie, Kelsey, Nathan, Brandon and Joel McCaughey were born to Bobbi and Kenny McCaughey, devout Christians from Carlisle, Iowa, on November 19, 1997.

Doctors had suggested that it would be impossible for the septuplets, who were conceived after their mum took a fertility …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

World’s biggest movie website run by ’self-confessed geek’ from UK house

LONDON – The world’s biggest movie website is run by a ’self-confessed technology geek’ from a house in Britain.

Colin Needham, 43, began the Internet Movie Database (IMDb) in 1990 as a hobby, and despite selling to Amazon he still works as Chief Executive, and runs the website from his former family home in Stoke Gifford, … Read : World’s biggest movie website run by ’self-confessed geek’ from UK house.

Roadside bomb kills 14 civilians in Helmand

KABUL – A minibus packed with civilians, including women and children, was blown apart by a roadside bomb in southern Afghanistan’s Helmand Province on Thursday, killing 14 passengers and wounding at least four, officials said.

“The minibus was traveling from Sangin to Kandahar City,” The New York Times quoted Dawoud Ahmadi, a spokesman for the Helmand …. Source  : Roadside bomb kills 14 civilians in Helmand.

China backs six-party talks following S. Korea’s indication to ease peninsula tensions

BEIJING – China has reportedly rendered its support yet again for holding six-party talks after South Korea signalled to ease tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

“Talks and negotiations are the only correct and effective approach to solve issues on the Korean Peninsula and realize its long-term peace and stability,” the China Daily quoted Foreign Ministry spokeswoman … Read : China backs six-party talks following S. Korea’s indication to ease peninsula tensions.

Hundreds of herbal medicines to be banned in UK next year

LONDON – As new European regulations come into force, hundreds of herbal medicines, except for a small number of popular products for ‘mild’ illness, will be banned from being sold in Britain next year.

With just four months to go before the ban is put in place, thousands of patients are set to lose access to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Hundreds of herbal medicines to be banned in UK next year.

Queen becomes great-grandmother for first time

LONDON – The Queen has become a great-grandmother for the first time at the age of 84 – the wife of her grandson Peter Phillips has given birth to a baby girl.

Buckingham Palace has said that the Queen and Prince Philip were ‘delighted’ with the birth of their first great-grandchild, who is 12th in line … Original source on Gaea Times at : Queen becomes great-grandmother for first time.

Texas Christian University teaches about “god Krishna”

NEVADA – Texas Christian University (TCU) in USA, affiliated with Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), offers a course titled “Many Faces of Krishna”, which “considers the many images of the god Krishna”, according to reports.

It (RELI 30753) gives background of Hindu thought and practice and looks into Krishna’s appearance in Mahabharata, including Bhagavad-Gita, and later …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Texas Christian University teaches about “god Krishna”.

Pakistan fighting ‘war on terrorism’ for survival: Shahbaz Sharif

LONDON – No one should be sceptical about the fact that Pakistan is fighting the war on terrorism for its survival, Punjab Chief Minister Mohammed Shahbaz Sharif has said.

“War on terrorism is Pakistan’s own war which should be won at any cost for its survival,” Geo News quoted Shahbaz, as saying to a press conference … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pakistan fighting ‘war on terrorism’ for survival: Shahbaz Sharif.

Girl on iconic ‘Rose the Riveter’ WWII poster dies at 86

NEW YORK – Geraldine Hoff Doyle, who inspired the iconic ‘Rose the Riveter’ WWII poster, has passed away at the age 86 in Michigan.

The poster of a young woman in a factory uniform and red polka dot head kerchief, her arm flexed to show off her muscle with a speech balloon stating boldly, “We can … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Girl on iconic ‘Rose the Riveter’ WWII poster dies at 86.

No foreign troops allowed to conduct ground operation in Pakistan: Athar Abbas

ISLAMABAD – No foreign troops will be allowed to launch any ground offensive in Pakistan’s tribal areas, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Athar Abbas has said.

Talking to a TV channel, Abbas said foreign troops had neither been allowed to conduct ground operation in Pakistan, nor would they be allowed in future.

He also claimed …. Original source  : No foreign troops allowed to conduct ground operation in Pakistan: Athar Abbas.

Yeddyurappa meets Karnataka Governor Bhardwaj, seeks to mend relations

BANGALORE – In an attempt to bury the hatchet over differences regarding corruption issues in the state, Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa met Governor HR Bhardwaj here at Raj Bhavan today.

Talking to reporters after meeting, Yeddyurappa said he would meet Bhardwaj once in 15 days as he stressed there should not be any room … Read more >>.

Brit-Indian honeymooner Dewani ‘cleared’ of role in 2nd person’s murder in 2007

CAPE TOWN – Shrien Dewani, the Brit-Indian millionaire accused of conspiring to murder his wife Anni during their honeymoon in Cape Town, has been ‘cleared’ of allegations that he murdered a second person in South Africa by the private investigator hired to re-examine the case.

According to the Daily Mail, Christian Botha has turned down claims …. Original source  : Brit-Indian honeymooner Dewani ‘cleared’ of role in 2nd person’s murder in 2007.

Oliver and Olivia were Britain’s favourite baby names in 2010

LONDON – Oliver and Olivia became the most popular names for kids in UK this year.

Oliver was the most popular boy’s name in 2010, according to a survey of 423,000 children born this year. It knocked Jack into second place after 16 years, reports the Daily Mail.

Meanwhile, Olivia remains the most popular girl’s name for …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Oliver and Olivia were Britain’s favourite baby names in 2010.

Indian firms in crisis after RBI bans use of clearing house for Iran oil shipment

NEW DELHI – Indian oil firms are facing a crisis after the Reserve Bank of India’s declaration that they can no longer use the Asian Clearing Union, a clearing house set up by the United Nations in the 1970s, for commerce between Asian countries.

India and Iran share a 11 billion dollar oil and gas trade, …. Source  : Indian firms in crisis after RBI bans use of clearing house for Iran oil shipment.

No price hike at Malaysian mamak shops, Indian restaurants

KUALA LUMPUR – Customers at mamak and Indian restaurants in Malaysia will not be asked to pay more for their teh tarik and roti canai as the two associations representing these eateries have given an assurance they will not hike up their prices despite the increased cost of sugar and cooking gas.

“We have held … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : No price hike at Malaysian mamak shops, Indian restaurants.

China shuts down 60,000 porn sites in 2010 (lead: China porn sites)

BEIJING – A Chinese government spokesman has said that his country has shut down over 60,000 pornographic websites this year, netting almost 5,000 suspects in the process, adding that the campaign against obscene material would continue.

Beijing has run a highly publicized drive against smutty and lewd content on the Internet and cell phones, threatening …. Original source  : China shuts down 60,000 porn sites in 2010 (lead: China porn sites).

Indians on death row in UAE refuse settlement proposal

DUBAI – A proposal to settle the case involving seventeen Indians, who have appealed the death penalty for killing a Pakistani in Sharjah has been refused.

According to their lawyer, the family of the Pakistani man told the court that they were ready to accept compensation, but defendants refused because justice was on their side.

The court …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indians on death row in UAE refuse settlement proposal.

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