Breaking News – Monthly Newsletter February 2011

Bankura residents say Maoist activities have reduced in the last one year

BANKURA – Residents of West Bengal’s Bankura district said Maoist activities in the region have reduced in the last year.

Bikas Mondal, the Panchayat head, Pingboni, said the business in the region has also picked up a good pace.

“In the last one year or so, the situation … Read : Bankura residents say Maoist activities have reduced in the last one year.

Fire breaks out in Mumbai’s slum area

MUMBAI – A massive fire broke out in slum area of Mumbai on Saturday morning.

Firemen rushed to the spot to control the situation.

A. N. Shinde, Deputy Fire Officer said more then a dozen fire engines have rushed to the spot.

“The fire took place around 4 in the … Read : Fire breaks out in Mumbai’s slum area.

Snowfall to help apple crop in Jammu and Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Apple growers have welcomed snowfall in the Jammu and Kashmir.

The valley witnessed the maiden snowfall of the season on December 30.

Apple growers every year eagerly await the snowfall, as it would fulfill the chilling hours required for apple fruit.

Eijaz Ahmad, an … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Snowfall to help apple crop in Jammu and Kashmir.

Europe, US, other nations celebrate New Year with gusto, fireworks

LONDON/NEW YORK – People from all walks of life celebrated the beginning of the new year with gusto and fireworks in Europe, the United States and in other parts of the world.

In London, for example, a quarter of a million people gathered at the riverside for a spectacular display of glittering … Read more : Europe, US, other nations celebrate New Year with gusto, fireworks.

Good Samaritans bring warmth to Agra’s shelterless

AGRA – A healthy rivalry among social workers and voluntary agencies has helped set up a dozen night shelters for the poor and the homeless in this city of the Taj.

The Sri Nathji Nishulk Jal Sewa’s “Raen Basera” was the latest to open Friday afternoon near the new Shoe Mandi complex. A large …. Original source  : Good Samaritans bring warmth to Agra’s shelterless.

RBI to probe Citibank scam in Gurgaon

GURGAON – The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has begun a probe into the Rs. 300 crore scam that took place at the Gurgaon branch of Citibank.

RBI Executive Director G. Gopalakrishna on Friday said a statement in this regard would be made.

Gurgaon Police questioned the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the Hero Group, Sanjay …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : RBI to probe Citibank scam in Gurgaon.

N. Korea ship sinks, killing two, 15 others declared missing

PYONGYANG – A North Korean-registered cargo ship sank in the Yellow Sea on Friday, killing two sailors. Fifteen others are reported missing.

According to The Star, the “Kang Bong” sank on early Friday morning after water entered the ship with the help of strong gales.

The ship, with 20 people onboard, was travelling 120 nautical miles …. Original article  : N. Korea ship sinks, killing two, 15 others declared missing.

Men from Mars and women from Venus? No, says study

LONDON – The 20th century adage that “Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus” is a myth, says a new research.

Scientists have shown that men and women act very similarly when in love suggesting that our brains are wired exactly the same way when it comes to love, reports the Telegraph.

Professor Semir Zeki … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Men from Mars and women from Venus? No, says study.

China, Russia oil pipeline operation significant to global energy market: Expert

MOSCOW – The launch of a new oil pipeline between Russia’s East Siberia and Chinese city of Daqing can be significant for the global energy market, a Russian expert has said.

The China Daily quoted Sergei Luzyanin, Deputy Director of Moscow’s Far East Institute, as saying the project could change the flow of global energy … Read more : China, Russia oil pipeline operation significant to global energy market: Expert.

Northern Irish families flushing toilets with lemonade!

LONDON – Left without water for almost two weeks, families in Northern Ireland have now resorted to flushing their toilets with lemonade.

With shops stripped of bottled water almost as soon as it arrives, people are turning to the next best thing to fill their toilet cisterns – lemonade, reports the Daily Express.

Engineers are working … Read : Northern Irish families flushing toilets with lemonade!.

US efforts fail to convince Pakistan’s top general to target safe Taliban havens

ISLAMABAD – Countless efforts made by the United States to persuade Pakistan army chief General Ashfaq Kayani to target safe terrorist havens inside Pakistan territory have failed so far, and recent US intelligence estimates have concluded that he is unlikely to change his mind anytime soon.

Kayani, who as Pakistan’s army chief has more direct say … Read more >>>.

Palestinian President Abbas UN, EU to draft new peace plan

JERUSALEM – Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has urged Middle East power brokers to draft a new peace plan for the region that could help revive failed U.S.-backed negotiations with Israel.

Malaysia’s The Star newspaper quoted Abbas as saying that Palestinians “demand” that the Quartet comprising the US, the European Union, Russia and the United Nations “draft … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Palestinian President Abbas UN, EU to draft new peace plan.

Hindus greet Sikhs on Guru Gobind Singh birthday

NEVADA – Hindus have sent early greetings to Sikh communities world over for upcoming birthday of Guru Gobind Singh Sahib (1666-1708), tenth Guru of Sikhism.

Well known Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a release in Nevada (USA) today, expressed warmest greetings on this sacred occasion, wishing that it brought joy, happiness, blessings and cheer to all.

Rajan … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Hindus greet Sikhs on Guru Gobind Singh birthday.

Bhopal Police arrest two HuJI terrorists

BHOPAL – Bhopal Police arrested two Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami (HuJI) terrorists late on Friday night.

The duo were identified as Shaukat and Mirajuddin. Police claim that both terrorists are wanted in Kashmir. (ANI)
… Read more >>.

Prince William and Kate say no to servants!

MELBOURNE – Royal couple Prince William and Kate Middleton have revealed their plans to live a modest life after they tie the knot.

According to the Telegraph, the couple does not plan to employ a personal chef, butler, valet, or any other type of servants (apart from their security) at the four-bedroom farmhouse they share in …. Source  : Prince William and Kate say no to servants!.

Pilgrims throng Vaishno Devi on New Year

KATRA – Thousands of pilgrims have converged at Katra town on their way to the Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir.

Vaishno Devi is approached through Katra, which lies 13 kilometers from the shrine, at the base of the hill.

“For the last two hours we are standing in the queue for ticket and I think … Read more : Pilgrims throng Vaishno Devi on New Year.

N.Korea wants to end its hostility with South Korea

NEW DELHI – North Korea has reportedly called on South Korea to come forward for a dialogue, saying both countries should end their hostilities.

Malaysian daily The Star quoted the three main North Korean newspapers including the Rodong Sinmun as saying in a joint editorial that: “Confrontation between north and south should be defused as … Original article on : N.Korea wants to end its hostility with South Korea.

Air Marshal N. A. K. Browne takes over as new Indian Air Force vice-chief

NEW DELHI – Air Marshal N. A. K. Browne took over as the new vice chief of the Indian Air Force (IAF) here on Saturday.

Air Marshal Browne laid a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti.

He succeeds Air Marshal P. K. Barbora, who retired on Friday.

Air Marshal Browne was earlier in command of the Delhi-based Western … Original article on : Air Marshal N. A. K. Browne takes over as new Indian Air Force vice-chief.

Coalition forces have killed Taliban leader Mullah Bahador

KABUL – Coalition forces in Afghanistan have killed top-ranking Taliban official Mullah Bahador in restive Kunduz Province during an overnight raid, according to Afghan police and a local governor.

The officials said Bahador, the Taliban’s shadow governor in the province, was killed late Thursday night, The New York Times reports.

Provincial police chief Abdul Rahman … Original source on Gaea Times at : Coalition forces have killed Taliban leader Mullah Bahador.

Pak Taliban releases 23 tribesmen it abducted for meeting army chief

PESHAWAR – The Pakistan Taliban have released a group of 23 tribesmen, who were abducted following their meeting with army chief General Ashfaq Kayani during a recent trip to the lawless tribal belt.

“A Taliban court has freed the 23 tribesmen after they swore on the holy Quran that they will never support the government in … Original article on : Pak Taliban releases 23 tribesmen it abducted for meeting army chief.

17th SAARC Summit to take place in Maldives

NEW DELHI – The 17th South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Summit will be held on November 10-11 in Maldives.

According to Sunday’s The Kathmandu Post, citing the economic slowdown, the Maldives had earlier skipped hosting the 16th SAARC Summit. Later, Bhutan did the honors.

In a … Original source on Gaea Times at : 17th SAARC Summit to take place in Maldives.

Iran’s ’stoning to death’ woman brought out for dinner with children following son’s appeal

TEHRAN – Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani, the Iranian woman sentenced to death by stoning for adultery charges, was taken out on prison leave to have dinner with her daughter and son, hours after he had appealed to the judiciary to spare her life.

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

Brits welcome 2011 nursing hangover of the decade

LONDON – New Year’s Eve turned into a mess for Britain after millions drowned to gallons of wine, beer and champagne in pubs and clubs throughout the country.

Things got so bad that members of the armed forces had to put up Territorial Army hospital tents as revelers downed 300 million pounds of booze, reports the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mile High’s ’sex flights’ grounded after safety concerns

LONDON – An airline that lets couples join the Mile High club has been grounded after safety concerns were expressed by the Civil Aviation Authority.

Mile High Flights, based in Gloucestershire, has been giving couples the chance to make love in the clouds for 640 pounds for the last two years, but has been refused a … Read more : Mile High’s ’sex flights’ grounded after safety concerns.

Many Britishers of Indian descent awarded New Year British honors

NEVADA – Various Britishers of Indian descent have made the list for New Year British honors “for making difference in the community”.

Indira Patel has received DBE for “services to Human Rights”.

Ravi Parkash Chand (Equality and Diversity Head at Home Office) and Minaxi Sharad Desai (Cytopathologist and Clinical Director) have received CBE.

Nirpal Singh Riat (for services … Original article on : Many Britishers of Indian descent awarded New Year British honors.

Now for 15, pounds get catch a glimpse of Will, Kate’s romantic London!

LONDON – Do you wish to see where Prince Charles bought that ring for Princess Diana? Or where Prince William climbed on to a nightclub table and yelled ‘I’m free’ after he dumped Kate in 2007?

Well, now just for 15 pounds, you can.

Newcastle University film and philosophy graduate James Bonney’s company Celebrity Planet has launched … Read more : Now for 15, pounds get catch a glimpse of Will, Kate’s romantic London!.

At 12, he is newspaper editor, reporter and publisher

ALLAHABAD – He is all of 12 years but Utkarsh Tripathi painstakingly brings out a handwritten newspaper every week to spread awareness among his peers on issues like the environment and female foeticide. And all this to satisfy his urge to “serve the country”.

A Class 8 student of the Brij Bihari Sahai (BBS) Inter … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : At 12, he is newspaper editor, reporter and publisher.

PML-N hints at legal action against MQM members for “bad-mouthing” its leadership

KARACHI – The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz is contemplating legal action against the Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) parliamentarians, who were involved in “bad-mouthing and using unparliamentary language” against the PML-N leadership.

On Wednesday, leaders of both parties indulged in a mud-slinging bout, and did not even refrain from using abusive language and profanities against each other, besides …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Indian-origin bride Anni ‘wanted to tell something’ before being murdered in SA’

LONDON – The father of Anni Dewani, the Indian-origin bride who was killed during her honeymoon in Cape Town, has said that she wanted to tell him something urgent hours before her murder.

“She said ‘Dad, I have so much to tell you, I’ll be home on Tuesday and I’ll have so much to tell …. Read the original article  : ‘Indian-origin bride Anni ‘wanted to tell something’ before being murdered in SA’.

Antony to lay foundation stone of India’s first defence ship building institute

NEW DELHI – To enhance self reliance in warship production capabilities of India, Defence Minister AK Antony will lay the foundation stone of the National Institute for Research and Development in Defence Shipbuilding (NIRDESH) on Tuesday in Calicut.

NIRDESH would concentrate on enhancing self-reliance in production capabilities relating to all kinds of warships, submarines and …. Original article  : Antony to lay foundation stone of India’s first defence ship building institute.

Duchess of York bans skiing for daughters

LONDON – The Duchess of York has banned her daughters from taking their annual family skiing holiday as she fears one of the family might break a limb before Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding.

Sarah Ferguson was supposed to go to the exclusive resort of Verbier in Switzerland with her two daughters to celebrate former … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Duchess of York bans skiing for daughters.

Pope urges Christians to remain ’strong’ following Egypt church blast

LONDON – Pope Benedict XVI has urged Christians to remain strong after a car explosion outside an Alexandria church in Egypt killed at least 21 worshipers yesterday.

“In the face of the threatening tensions of the moment, especially in the face of discrimination, of abuse of power and religious intolerance that today particularly strikes Christians, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pope urges Christians to remain ’strong’ following Egypt church blast.

West Bengal failed to meet social security target, says Buddhadeb

KOLKATA – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee has said the state government has failed to achieve its target to include the maximum number of unorganized workers in the social security schemes.

Addressing a gathering of skilled and unskilled workers here on Saturday, Bhattacharjee said: “Efforts should be made to get unorganised labourers from various sectors … Original article on : West Bengal failed to meet social security target, says Buddhadeb.

Post New Year’s Day, 7 in 10 Brits claim of plan to lose weight

LONDON – A new survey has revealed that after the merriment of Christmas and New Year’s Day, seven in 10 Britons claim they have a plan to lose weight.

The research was commissioned by weight-loss company Thinking Slimmer.

Brits spend half as much again on losing the festive flab as they splurge on piling it on …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Post New Year’s Day, 7 in 10 Brits claim of plan to lose weight.

SA Judge in Brit-Indian honeymooner’s trial dodged by controversy

CAPE TOWN – The family members of Shrien Dewani, the Brit-Indian millionaire accused of conspiring to have his wife killed during their honeymoon in Cape Town, have expressed fears that he would not receive a fair trial in South Africa after it emerged that the judge presiding over the case has been dogged by misconduct … Read more >>>.

Pakistani Hindu families demand bill on marriage registration

ISLAMABAD – Families of the Scheduled Caste Hindus in Pakistan have demanded of the government that the Hindu Marriage Registration Bill should be passed by Parliament as early as possible.

Women belonging to Scheduled Caste Hindus from Sindh and Southern Punjab converged in front of the National Press Club on Saturday, and held a protest demonstration … Read more : Pakistani Hindu families demand bill on marriage registration.

UK’s 999 crews took 800 calls from drunken revelers on New Year’s Eve!

LONDON – New Year’s Eve may be the most pleasant night for many but Brit emergency servicemen weren’t lucky enough to enjoy it.

It was the busiest ever night for London ambulance crews, with staff struggling an average 11 calls a minute from drunken revelers in the wee hours.

By 4am, operators had answered 2,639 emergency calls, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UK’s 999 crews took 800 calls from drunken revelers on New Year’s Eve!.

Prince William and Kate wedding ‘wide open to terror attack’

LONDON – Grapevine has suggested that Prince William’s wedding to Kate Middleton is wide open to a terror attack.

It has been revealed that London’s Westminster Abbey has shocking security lapses that could leave William, Kate, the Queen, Prime Minister David Cameron and a host of royals and VIPs exposed to a terror bomb outrage.

The security …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US drones killed 2,043 people, mostly civilians, in Pak during last five years

ISLAMABAD – As many as 2,043 people, mostly civilians, were killed in US drone attacks in northwestern parts of Pakistan during the last five years, a research has revealed.

The yearly report of Conflict Monitoring Centre (CMC) has termed the CIA drone strikes as an ‘assassination campaign turning out to be revenge campaign’, and showed that … Read : US drones killed 2,043 people, mostly civilians, in Pak during last five years.

Gujjar agitation enters 14th day

JAIPUR – The Gujjar agitation over demand of five per cent reservation entered its 14th day on Sunday.

Gujjar leader Kirori Singh Bainsla refused to attend a fresh invitation for talks, saying he first wants to know the outcome of talks between Congress leaders of his community and the Rajasthan government.

“I am waiting for their … Original article on : Gujjar agitation enters 14th day.

Adarsh society scam: Former IAS officer Subhash Lalla resigns

MUMBAI – Former IAS officer Subhash Lalla has resigned as a member of Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission following allegations of his involvement in the Adarsh Cooperative Housing Society scam.

Lalla submitted his resignation to Governor K Sankaranarayanan at Raj Bhavan … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Adarsh society scam: Former IAS officer Subhash Lalla resigns.

US Navy probes top officer on aircraft carrier ‘making lewd videos’

LONDON – The US Navy has launched an investigation after it emerged that a senior officer aboard a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier had made a series of raunchy videos and then shown them to his crew.

Capt Owen Honors, who took over as the commander of … Read : US Navy probes top officer on aircraft carrier ‘making lewd videos’.

Octomom not evicted yet from home

WASHINGTON – Nadya Suleman, who earned herself the nickname Octomom after she gave birth to octuplets, has not been evicted from her home as yet.

Amer Haddadin, who owns the disputed LaHabre, CA home, had said he was going to start the eviction process against Suleman, 35, on December 31.

He … Read more »».

Chile hit by 7.2 magnitude earthquake

WASHINGTON – A 7.2 magnitude earthquake has been detected in the Pacific near the central coast of Chile, US authorities have said.

News 24 quoted the US Geological Survey as saying that the earthquake occurred at 20:20 GMT on Sunday, … Original article on : Chile hit by 7.2 magnitude earthquake.

Obama signs 4bn dlrs compensation bill for 9/11 ill rescue workers

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has reportedly signed into law a bill to compensate emergency workers who fell ill following rescue and clean-up efforts during the 9/11 attacks on New York City.

“We will never forget the selfless courage demonstrated by the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Obama signs 4bn dlrs compensation bill for 9/11 ill rescue workers.

PML-N will bail out PPP coalition govt if no-confidence motion initiated: Shujaat

LAHORE – A no-confidence motion against the Pakistan People’s Party-led coalition cannot succeed because the day the initiative is taken, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) will bail out the government, PML-Q President Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain has said.

In an interview with The Nation, … Read : PML-N will bail out PPP coalition govt if no-confidence motion initiated: Shujaat.

Iran’s nuclear power plant to go on line in February

TEHRAN – Iran’s nuclear power plant is to be connected to the national electricity network in February, one month later than stated earlier, the country’s Atomic Energy Organisation chief Ali-Akbar Salehi said Monday.

In November, Salehi had said that the Russian-built 1,000-megawatt reactor at Bushehr would be on line by January. The announcement of the … Original article on : Iran’s nuclear power plant to go on line in February.

Afghan transit trade through Gwadar port can boost Baloch economy: Raisani

QUETTA – Afghan transit trade through Gwadar port can boost economic activities in Balochistan, Chief Minister Nawab Aslam Raisani has said.

Talking to reporters, Raisani said the transit trade was imperative for sustainable development of the port.

He said he had suggested to British officials that fuel to NATO troops battling the Taliban in Afghanistan should be …. Source  : Afghan transit trade through Gwadar port can boost Baloch economy: Raisani.

Afghan peace delegation to arrive in Pakistan on Jan 5

ISLAMABAD – An Afghan delegation is scheduled to arrive on a three-day visit to Islamabad on January 5, as part of the Afghanistan Government’s efforts to broker peace with the Taliban.

Former Afghanistan President Burhanuddin Rabbani is set to lead a delegation from the Afghan High Council for Peace.

Backed by Afghan President Hamid Karzai, the High …. Original source  : Afghan peace delegation to arrive in Pakistan on Jan 5.

‘Iranian woman’s ’stoning to death’ sentence could still be quashed’

TEHRAN – A senior judicial official has said that Iranian woman Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani’s sentence of ’stoning to death’ could be avoided, but certain “ambiguities” still remain in her case.

On being asked whether Ashtiani’s sentence for adultery could be overturned, the head of East Azerbaijan’s judiciary, Malek Ajdar Sharifi, said: “anything is possible.”

News.com.au quoted …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Aarushi murder case: closure report registered in Ghaziabad court

GHAZIABAD – A special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in Ghaziabad on Monday registered the investigating agency’s closure report in the Aarushi Talwar murder case.

Special judge Preety Singh said that the closure will be registered first by the court registrar and then notice to parties involved and cognizance will be taken later.

The …. Source  : Aarushi murder case: closure report registered in Ghaziabad court.

Samy Vellu to begin special envoy duties with India visit this week

KUALA LUMPUR – Samy Vellu, the former Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) chief who assumed duties as the country’s special envoy with ministerial rank on infrastructure to India and South Asia on Saturday, would reportedly begin his official tour on Thursday starting with a visit to New Delhi.

Besides India, other South Asian countries under Samy … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Samy Vellu to begin special envoy duties with India visit this week.

Average adult in Britain tells 3 lies a day: Survey

LONDON – The average adult in UK lies three times in a day and it is mostly about their whereabouts, hours of work and household chores, reveals a new study.

More than a third of Brits lie regularly about their workload to make lives easier, a study of 3,000 adults revealed.

The poll also found that …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US ambassador to China Huntsman hints at running for President in 2012

WASHINGTON – Jon Huntsman, the US ambassador to China and a Republican, has hinted that he might contest for the presidential bid in 2012.

“You know, I’m really focused on what we’re doing in our current position,” he said in response to a question about presidential aspirations. “But we won’t do this forever, and I … Read : US ambassador to China Huntsman hints at running for President in 2012.

‘King Con’ claims he earned 2m pound from crime, slept with 2,500 women

LONDON – A conman in Britain, who was nicknamed King Con after he brazenly duped people, has claimed that he had earned 2 million pounds from his life of crime, and slept with 2,500 women.

Paul Bint, 48, who just days after being released from prison has been bragging about his con games, had posed as …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

India to become power surplus nation: Shinde

AGARTALA – Union Power Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde has said that India would be a power surplus nation with the addition of 45,000 MW of power during the 12th Five Year Plan period.

“We have added about 44000MW of capacity during the last four-and-a-half years. Last year capacity addition was 9,585MW, which is the highest in …. Read the original article  : India to become power surplus nation: Shinde.

Mohan Bhagwat slams central government

PUNE – Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has slammed the Congress led central government for allegedly linking it and other Hindu groups with rising extremism in the country.

Addressing the RSS delegates here, he said that Congress is trying to link up RSS and other Hindu organisations with extremist forces to divert public attention … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mohan Bhagwat slams central government.

Iran to supply 70MW electricity to Afghanistan, Pakistan

TEHRAN – Iran will export 70MW of electricity to Afghanistan and Pakistan this Iranian year (which ends on March 20).

Managing Director of Iran’s state-run Power Supply and Distribution Company (TAVANIR) Homayoun Ha’eri said Iran plans to boost power supplies to these two neighbouring countries through its southeastern Sistan and Balouchestan province, Fars news agency reports.

His …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

NATO confirms killing of Taliban Deputy Governor in Afghanistan

KABUL – The NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) has confirmed that Taliban’s Deputy Governor, Bahadur, has been killed during a combined Afghan and coalition forces operation in Afghanistan’s northern Kunduz province.

“International Security Assistance Force confirmed Bahadur was killed during a combined Afghan and coalition force operation in Kunduz on December 30,” Xinhua quoted …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NATO confirms killing of Taliban Deputy Governor in Afghanistan.

S. Korea ready for talks with North provided not provoked

SEOUL – South Korean President Lee Myung-bak has said that his country is willing to talk to North Korea over the recent tensions, but added that “any provocation” by Pyongyang will not be tolerated.

“I remind the North that the path toward peace is yet open. The door for dialogue is still open. If the North …. Read the original article  : S. Korea ready for talks with North provided not provoked.

No visible planning for Pak though ICC World Cup only few months away: Abdul Qadir

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan spin legend and former chief selector Abdul Qadir rues that there is no “visible planning” for Pakistan for the forthcoming ICC World Cup 2011.

“The World Cup is a few months away but there isn’t any visible planning for Pakistan,” PakPassion.net quoted Qadir, as saying.

“Even now … Read more >>>.

At least five children injured in school bus bomb attack in Balochistan

QUETTA – At least five children were wounded when a bomb explosion tore through a school bus in insurgency-hit Balochistan on Tuesday.

Police and military officials said the bus was taking over 30 children of paramilitary Frontier Corps (FC) fathers to a school … Original article on : At least five children injured in school bus bomb attack in Balochistan.

Released former LTTE members facing rehabilitation problems in society

COLOMBO – Sri Lankan authorities have said that there have been problems rehabilitating ex-Tamil Tiger fighters into society.

The BBC quoted them as saying that some of the former Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) fighters have been taken back in for police questioning after being … Read : Released former LTTE members facing rehabilitation problems in society.

Pak sessions court remands Shahzain Bugti to judicial custody

QUETTA – Jamhoori Watan Party (JWP) leader Shahzain Bugti and his 26 security guards, who were arrested last month for allegedly carrying a huge cache of arms and ammunition, have been remanded to judicial custody by a judicial magistrate.

Shahzain’s case was earlier transferred from an anti-terrorism court …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pak sessions court remands Shahzain Bugti to judicial custody.

The New Year baby who came into the world at 11.11 1.1.11!

LONDON – Meet Baby Rose Gretton, who was born 11.11 on 1/1/11.

She was also one of 11 babies born on the first day of 2011 at Burton’s Queen’s Hospital.

“With her being born at 11.11am on the first of the first, 2011, she’s got all the ones. My mother and I … Original source on Gaea Times at : The New Year baby who came into the world at 11.11 1.1.11!.

Anglo-Indian heroine of Churchill’s spy squad to be honoured

LONDON – Noor Inayat Khan, who joined former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill’s sabotage force, the Special Operations Executive (SOE), at the height of the second World War, and was the first female radio operator sent into France, with the famous instruction to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Anglo-Indian heroine of Churchill’s spy squad to be honoured.

Taj Mahotsav to focus on Ghalib, Mir

AGRA – The ten-day heritage festival Taj Mahotsav, beginning Feb 18, will focus on doyens of Urdu poetry Mirza Ghalib and Mir Taqi Mir, an official here said.

The festival, which began in 1993 as a tourism promotion initiative, has over the years shrunk into just a local fair, with foreign tourists largely keeping away … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Taj Mahotsav to focus on Ghalib, Mir.

‘Donald Duck’ to go to court over ‘groping’ claims

LONDON – A woman in the US has been told by a judge that she can sue Disney over claims that a staff member dressed as Donald Duck groped her at a theme park.

April Magolon, 27, says she was holding her child at Disney’s Epcot theme park in Florida when the employee grabbed her breast …. Original source  : ‘Donald Duck’ to go to court over ‘groping’ claims.

Brit couple ‘abused own children online for international paedophile ring’

LONDON – A British couple, who allegedly abused their son and daughter online while others watched, has been arrested after police smashed an international paedophile ring.

The two, who have not been named, were running an “open naturist” website for parents who also abused their children, the Daily Mail reported.

According to the Herald Sun, the pair …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brit couple ‘abused own children online for international paedophile ring’.

Iran denies WikiLeaks report that Ahmadinejad was slapped by Guards chief

TEHRAN – Iran has denied a WikiLeaks report that Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was slapped by the chief of the country’s Revolutionary Guards in January last year.

During an interview with Iran’s Fars news agency, the Guard spokesman, Ramezan Sharif, reportedly claimed that the publication of the cable was part of a plot by the … Original article on : Iran denies WikiLeaks report that Ahmadinejad was slapped by Guards chief.

US downplays Pak political crisis’ impact on war against terrorism

WASHINGTON – Downplaying the impact of the ongoing Pakistan political crisis on the war on terror, the US State Department has said it is closely watching the “political challenge” within the coalition government, “but meanwhile we’re focused on our long-term partnership with Pakistan.”

In a daily press briefing, when asked if the US had “absolutely no …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

PML-Q won’t blackmail beleaguered PPP-led Pak coalition govt: Shujaat

ISLAMABAD – The PML-Q will not blackmail the PPP-led Pakistan coalition government since it does not believe in following such policies, PML-Q President Shujaat Hussain has said.

Talking to media persons after meeting with Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani, Shujaat said he had promised conditional support to him, provided that the government would ensure good governance … Read more »»».

Cylinder blast causes roof collapse in Delhi, five injured

NEW DELHI – A cylinder blast in a west Delhi home caused its roof to collapse this morning, injuring five people.

The incident took place in at 6.55 a.m. in House number WZ-114 in Naraina locality.

“Five members of the same family including three children have been injured and are hospitalised. The condition of one of … Read more : Cylinder blast causes roof collapse in Delhi, five injured.

Musharraf says his party is prepared for early Pak polls

DUBAI – Former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf has said his newly formed party is prepared for possible early elections.

His comments came at a time when the federal government in Islamabad is scrambling to save its ruling coalition, following its key ally Muttaheda Qaumi Movement’s decision to sit on opposition benches in parliament.

Musharraf, who launched the …. Read the original article  : Musharraf says his party is prepared for early Pak polls.

China’s next President Xi is man with “average intelligence”, “boring”

BEIJING – A close friend Xi Jinping, who almost certain to take over as China’s president from Hu Jintao in 2012, has reportedly told US diplomats that Jinping is a man with only “average intelligence” and added that women find him “boring”, according to the leaked secret US diplomatic cables released by ‘Wikileaks’.

The … Read more : China’s next President Xi is man with “average intelligence”, “boring”.

Temperature In Delhi Going Downwards

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The cold wave that has gripped the Northern states of India is taking its toll on the capital of India as well. The residents of Delhi are shivering in extreme cold and the abysmally low temperature in the city has made life tougher for the poor. The thick fog that is … Original source on Gaea Times at : Temperature In Delhi Going Downwards.

Delhi court to decide on CBI’s closure report in Bofors case

NEW DELHI – After an income tax tribunal tracked down the money trail in the Bofors scandal, a Delhi court will today decide whether the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) should withdraw its case against Italian businessman Ottavio Quattrocchi in Bofors pay-off case or not

The CBI in its plea said that continued prosecution of Quattrocchi … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Delhi court to decide on CBI’s closure report in Bofors case.

Russia recruits ex-criminals to fill vacant posts in Interior Forces

KABUL – The Russian Interior Ministry had reportedly given a green signal to recruit ex-criminals to fill the vacant positions, after the number of conscripts recruited for the country’s Interior Forces failed to reach the requirement.

Xinhua quoted a source from the ministry as saying that said the campaign on recruitment that ended on December … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Russia recruits ex-criminals to fill vacant posts in Interior Forces.

Karzai’s spokesman to resign soon

KABUL – Afghan President Hamid Karzai’s spokesman, Waheed Omer, has declared his intention to resign from the post soon, adding that his motive for such a step is purely personal and not political.

“To be clear, I have been thinking about this for some time. There is nothing that relates this to a political issue,” … Read more : Karzai’s spokesman to resign soon.

‘Iran’s move to invite EU members except America to nuke facilities a ‘ploy’: US

WASHINGTON – The Unites States has criticised Iran for inviting Russia, China and several European Union members to visit its nuclear facilities this month, while excluding America, and called it a “clever ploy” to divide the alliance of nations opposed to Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

“There’s no invitation in our in-box,” The New York Daily … Read more >>>.

US TV meteorologist charged with falsely claiming rape

NEW YORK – A TV meteorologist in America has been charged with falsely claiming that a man had tried to rape her last Fall as she jogged in Central Park.

Heidi Jones, 37, who remains suspended from her forecasting job at WABC/Channel 7, will, according to her lawyer, [..] Read the original article: here.

Crazy sport ‘noodling’ sees anglers using their arms as bait to lure catfish

LONDON – A new sport that sees anglers using their arms as bait to lure enormous catfish from their lair has emerged in the form of ‘noodling’.

The sport has become an Internet sensation, after films showed the noodlers inserting their arms into the catfish’s lair and then … Read more >>>.

Ali-Reza Pahlavi Commits Suicide

BOSTON (GaeaTimes.com)- Ali-Reza Pahlavi, the younger son of former Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi was found dead at his home in Boston, Massachusetts on Tuesday. The oldest son of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi released a statement in his social networking site and announced the news to the media. His family members are of the … Read more : Ali-Reza Pahlavi Commits Suicide.

Temperature In Delhi Falling Downwards

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- North India is shivering under a deadly grip of cold and Delhi is also undergoing the same weather conditions. Tuesday the temperature in Delhi took a nosedive and the minimum temperature hovered below 4 degrees. The elderly lot and the kids are suffering the most and the met office has indicated … Original article on : Temperature In Delhi Falling Downwards.

‘Iran to boost missile systems to safeguard itself from US-Israel aggression’

TEHRAN – Iranian Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani has said his country plans to boost its military power further to safeguard itself from potential threats of the US, and Israel.

“We do not conceal the fact that we seek to boost the power of our missile systems. As long as the U.S. and the Zionist regime …. Read the original article  : ‘Iran to boost missile systems to safeguard itself from US-Israel aggression’.

Meet the US man who has been jailed at least 99 times in 30 years!

MELBOURNE – A US man has been jailed at the Mobile County Metro Jail in Alabama at least 99 times in the last 30 years – more times than anyone else in the modern era of record-keeping.

Online court records reveal that William Bradley Bankston has been arrested and booked for a variety of charges including …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Teenage student considers auctioning off virginity to fund tuition fees

LONDON – A female teenage university student is considering auctioning off her virginity so she can pay her tuition fees for the next three years.

The student, who has not been named, posted a link on popular website The Student Room offering herself for sale in exchange for cash, saying that she needs the money as … Read : Teenage student considers auctioning off virginity to fund tuition fees.

Rows over money are the most likely cause of break-ups in UK

LONDON – Brits are more than twice as likely to move out of a relationship due to differences over money as they are for any other reason, reveals a new survey.

As many as 58 per cent of single people said money had played some role in the breakdown of their last relationship, according to discount … Original article on : Rows over money are the most likely cause of break-ups in UK.

CWG scam: CBI quizzes Suresh Kalmadi

NEW DELHI – Commonwealth Organising Committee chief Suresh Kalmdi was today questioned by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with alleged financial irregularities in the conduct of the sports event.ccording to sources, the questioning is about alleged irregularities in the Queen Baton’s Relay held in London last year besides certain contracts awarded to … Original source on Gaea Times at : CWG scam: CBI quizzes Suresh Kalmadi.

Adarsh scam: Information Commissioner Tiwari goes on leave, won’t quit

MUMBAI – Maharashtra Information Commissioner Ramanand Tiwari, whose son owns a flat in the controversial Adarsh Housing Society in Mumbai, has submitted his leave application to the State Governor, amid a demand by the opposition for his ouster.

“Tiwari had submitted leave application to Governor K Sankaranarayanan, who is yet to take any decision on … Read more >>.

China’s latest stealth aircraft J-20 takes a test run

LONDON – China may have started testing a new stealth aircraft and photographs of the latest J-20 taking high-speed taxi tests at an airfield have appeared on several websites, fuelling speculation that Beijing is not particularly concerned about keeping its latest weapon under wraps, according to aviation experts.

The security at the airfield where the J-20 [..] Read the original article: here.

Lib Dem support sinks to lowest level since origin: Poll

LONDON – The support for Britain’s Liberal Democrat Party has gone down to its lowest level in over a decade because the voters are now dissatisfied over coalition partner’s U-turn on promises to oppose higher university fees, according to a media poll.

The Lib Dems pledged to oppose moves to raise university tuition fees, but … Read : Lib Dem support sinks to lowest level since origin: Poll.

Palin hints at support for ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ repeal

WASHINGTON – Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin has finally hinted that she is in favour of the ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ repeal in the US military.

According to Politico, Palin has avoided speaking about the end of the ban on gays serving openly in the military, but she appeared to show support for the change …. Original article  : Palin hints at support for ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ repeal.

Indian army launches campaign to encourage youth to join defence forces

COIMBATORE – To motivate youngsters to join defence forces, the Territorial Army flagged off a cycling expedition here.

Speaking on the occasion, B. K. Bhal Singh, commanding officer of 10 battalion of Territorial Army, said the basic objective was to inculcate the spirit of adventure among the youth.

“Basic aim is to inculcate the spirit of adventure … Read : Indian army launches campaign to encourage youth to join defence forces.

Pakistan’s political crisis hints at possibility of change

LAHORE – The shaken-up coalition democratic set up in Pakistan, a frontline ally of America in its deepened “war on terror,” has triggered a serious political crisis, indicating the possibility of an orchestration in the country’s internal and external dynamics in the future.

Leaving the ruling Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) with less than half the number …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan’s political crisis hints at possibility of change.

Ambulance that carried JFK’s casket up for grabs

WASHINGTON – The 1963 Pontiac Bonneville ambulance that carried the body of former US President John F. Kennedy following his assassination will be auctioned later this month.

It will be on sale at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale auction, which begins on January 17, reports Fox News.

The vehicle was used to collect Kennedy’s flag-draped coffin from Air Force One …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ambulance that carried JFK’s casket up for grabs.

Chilean miners accuse President Pinera of failing to keep ‘medical care deal’

LONDON – Chilean miners, who earned international recognition after surfacing from a gold and copper mine after two months, have reportedly accused the country’s President, Sebastian Pinera, of failing to honour a promise of providing at least six months of free medical care to them.

Four of the 33 Chilean miners have lost their medical leave … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chilean miners accuse President Pinera of failing to keep ‘medical care deal’.

Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s birth anniversary programmes cancelled

KARACHI – Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah has cancelled all programmes related to former President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s 83rd birth anniversary on account of the assassination of Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer.

“Syed Qaim Ali Shah, who is also President PPP Sindh has cancelled all functions, which were scheduled for January 5, to mark the …. Read the original article  : here.

Mirwaiz Farooq says UN has failed in resolving the Kashmir issue

SRINAGAR – The chairman of the moderate faction of the Hurriyat Conference, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, has said the United Nations has failed to resolve the Kashmir issue.

At a Hurriyat Conference seminar titled ‘The United Nations and its role on Kashmir’, the Mirwaiz said: “The Kashmir issue had a solid base because of the United Nations [..] Read the original article: here.

Tax Tribunal ruling in Bofors case being examined: Pranab Mukherjee

NEW DELHI – Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has said the central government is examining the income tax tribunal’s decision in the Bofors gun case.

Talking to reporters on the sidelines of an event here, Mukherjee said: “the Union Law Ministry was examining a tax tribunal’s order confirming that illegal commission of Rs.412.5 million was indeed …. Original article  : Tax Tribunal ruling in Bofors case being examined: Pranab Mukherjee.

‘What if Princess Di had lived?’

LONDON – A new book by author Monica Ali could possibly kick up a hornet’s nest by asking the question “What if Princess Diana were still alive?”

The book titled ‘Untold Story’ is a fictional tale inspired by Diana’s life and will be published in March.

Ali insisted …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Pakistan brewery ‘to give Indian beers a run for their money’

LONDON – Pakistan’s colonial era brewery has stepped up to challenge the dominance of India beer brands in Britain.

Isphanyar Bhandara, the company’s chief executive, said the firm hoped to start distributing to restaurants across the UK in the next two to three months.

“I am looking at this project not …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Taking up the gauntlet for sister’s education

BARMER – Growing up in Barmer district in Rajasthan Hajariram is just another kid on the block, the son of Togaram and Kamladevi he was sincere student of class X in the local school. His world really seemed far away from …. Source  : Taking up the gauntlet for sister’s education.

Women splash out 71 pounds in the sales on clothes they will never wear: UK study

LONDON – The average Brit shopper squanders 71 pounds in the sales on clothing that is too small to squeeze into, according to a new study.

The research showed that women were the main culprits when it comes to bargain blunders, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Women splash out 71 pounds in the sales on clothes they will never wear: UK study.

Gangster who inspired The Godfather was a ‘fake’

LONDON – A historian has claimed that the mobster who inspired 1970s blockbuster The Godfather was a “fake”.

It was believed that Charles “Lucky” Luciano was the father of organised crime and experts hailed him as the model for legendary mafia boss Don Corleone, played by Marlon Brando in the … Original article on : Gangster who inspired The Godfather was a ‘fake’.

Not aware of PAC letter over canteen irregularities: Army chief

NEW DELHI – Indian Army chief General V.K. Singh Thursday denied having received any summons from the Public Accounts Committee of parliament asking all three service chiefs to appear before it on alleged irregularities in defence-run canteens.

“I don’t know about the PAC letter. I am not aware of it,” Singh told reporters here … Read more >>.

Now in UK, one in three sex offenders, muggers will get right to vote

LONDON – Tens of thousands of sex offenders, muggers, drug dealers and burglars will be allowed to vote in prison under controversial new rules.

Almost 30,000 prisoners, or one in three, will get the right after meddling Euro-crats trampled over British justice by insisting convicts get the vote.

Under the ruling, inmates will be registered to vote … Read more : Now in UK, one in three sex offenders, muggers will get right to vote.

Battery factory poisons 24 children in China

BEIJING – Twenty-four children, aged between nine months and 16 years old, have been hospitalised for lead poisoning caused by battery factories in their east China village, state media said, marking the latest in a string of battery-related poisonings in recent years.

The official Xinhua News Agency said that local authorities had shut two battery factories …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Islamic group was a front for CIA: Ex-Turkish intelligence chief

LONDON – A former Turkish intelligence official has claimed that a worldwide moderate Islamic movement based in Pennsylvania has been providing cover for the CIA since the mid-1990s.

In revelations appearing in his memoir titled “Witness to Revolution and Near Anarchy,” retired Turkish intelligence official Osman Nuri Gundes says the religious-tolerance movement, led by an influential …. Original source  : Islamic group was a front for CIA: Ex-Turkish intelligence chief.

5,000-year-old civilization found in southern Iran

TEHRAN – Archaeologists working on Bam riverside in Kerman Province, Iran, have discovered ruins of a large ancient site that they believe belonged to a 5000-year-old civilization.

According to the Persian Mehr News Agency, team director Nader Alidadi-Soleimani said the site was discovered while excavation for a construction project in the Khajeh Askar region near … Original article on : 5,000-year-old civilization found in southern Iran.

Polygamist in Pakistan thrashed by wives for planning 5th marriage

WASHINGTON – A man in Pakistan was beaten up by two of his wives for allegedly conducting a secret marriage with a fourth, and for planning to marry a fifth.

According to the Telegraph, polygamist Mian Ishaq was reportedly attending a friend’s wedding reception with his third wife when his first two spouses, identified as Mehvish …. Original article  : Polygamist in Pakistan thrashed by wives for planning 5th marriage.

Now, scanner-proof undies to hide private parts at airports

MELBOURNE – A lawyer in the US, who was fed up with the strict full body scanning at airports, has created a number of scanner-proof undies that hide private parts.

Marc Carey, from Northern Kentucky, who designed the range, which includes a children’s line, by using a special ink in the clothes, said he did it … Read more : Now, scanner-proof undies to hide private parts at airports.

Pak assures support to Afghan Govt’s reconciliation efforts with Taliban

ISLAMABAD – Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Nawabzada Malik Amad Khan has assured Pakistan’s full support to the Afghan Government’s reconciliation efforts with the Taliban to ensure lasting peace in the war-torn country.

Khan gave the assurance during a meeting on Wednesday with a 25-member delegation of the High Council for Peace in Afghanistan, led …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pak assures support to Afghan Govt’s reconciliation efforts with Taliban.

Indo-French naval wargames to begin in Arabian Sea

NEW DELHI – To enhance interoperability between the two navies in wake of increasing piracy and maritime terrorism, the Indo-French bilateral naval exercise will commence on Friday in the Arabian Sea which will see participation of France’s Carrier Strike Group for the first time.

India with its long-coastline, and significant maritime capability sits astride, the sea-lanes … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Indo-French naval wargames to begin in Arabian Sea.

Another chilly day for Delhi

NEW DELHI – Delhiites on Thursday woke up to another cold morning as the mercury remained below the normal level.

The minimum temperature was recorded at 5.3 degree Celsius, a degree more than yesterday’s low of 4.2 degrees but still two degrees below normal for this time of the year.

Icy winds blowing across the city … Read more : Another chilly day for Delhi.

Chidambaram wants political parties to read Telangana report with ‘open mind’

NEW DELHI – Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Thursday urged representatives of political parties in Andhra Pradesh to read the Telangana report and the recommendations with an open mind.

During the meeting with eight recognized political parties in Andhra Pradesh, Chidambaram said: “I would urged you to read the report and the recommendations with an …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chidambaram wants political parties to read Telangana report with ‘open mind’.

Anti-U.S. cleric Muqtada al-Sadr returns to Iraq

WASHINGTON – A radical anti-American cleric, Muqtada al-Sadr, whose supporters once led armed uprisings against U.S. forces in Iraq, has returned to the country after spending over three years of voluntary exile in Iran.

Al-Sadr’s return comes as Iraq’s new government is just getting its footing and at a time when American forces are preparing to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Anti-U.S. cleric Muqtada al-Sadr returns to Iraq.

‘Pakistan needs courage from all its leaders following Taseer’s killing’

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan needs courage from all of its leaders at a time when bigots are condoning Punjab Governor Salman Taseer’s assassination in the name of religion, The Heritage Foundation has said.

On Tuesday, Taseer was assassinated by Qadri, one of his own elite security force protectors, who opened fire on him when he was moving …. Original article  : ‘Pakistan needs courage from all its leaders following Taseer’s killing’.

Reagan’s handwritten changes to ‘Evil Empire’ speech on display

LONDON – The National Archives in Washington DC has put Ronald Reagan’s handwritten changes to his ‘Evil Empire’ speech on display for the first time.

The exhibition was unveiled on Wednesday to mark the 100th anniversary of Reagan’s birth on February 6, reports the Telegraph.

The items in the exhibition document Reagan’s personal diplomacy with Mikhail …. Original article  : Reagan’s handwritten changes to ‘Evil Empire’ speech on display.

Temperature In New Delhi Dips Further

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- It seems unlikely that the winter woes of New Delhi residents is going to subside anytime soon. With the freezing temperature that Northern India including the national capital is facing for the past few days, city dwellers are finding it increasing hard to cope with the cold waves which has [..] Read the original article: here.

YWCA drops Christian word from historic name after 156 years

LONDON – The Young Women’s Christian Association, which is one of UK’s best-known charities, has dropped any mention of the word Christian from its historic name after 156 years.

The organisation, which is mainly funded by legacies left by …. Source article  : YWCA drops Christian word from historic name after 156 years.

The latest drink and drive warning- but this time it’s for coffee

LONDON – Experts have challenged UK government’s advice that urges drivers to drink caffeinated drinks if they feel tired, saying that the stimulant could have potentially dangerous side-effects.

A motoring group and a car parts store chain said drivers who rely …. Source article  : The latest drink and drive warning- but this time it’s for coffee.

Joe Biden’s advice to girls – ‘No dates till you’re 30???

WASHINGTON – US Vice President Joe Biden has some dating advice for the daughters of incoming senators: Don’t date ’till you’re 30.

While swearing in new senators on Wednesday, he welcomed their daughters with his favorite piece of advice.

“Just remember, no dates ’til you’re 30,” the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Childhood Experiences Killed Bill Zeller

PRINCETON (GaeaTimes.com)- Brilliant young programmer William “Bill” Zeller lost his life on Wednesday after fighting with coma for three days. He was admitted to the University Medical Center at Princeton after Public Safety officers on Sunday found him at his home moments after he had tried to kill himself. A suicide note written by the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Childhood Experiences Killed Bill Zeller.

Romanian witches to use ‘cat poo, dead dog’ curse on country’s taxmen

LONDON – It’s bizarre way of protesting against taxes, and a bit scary too – Romanian witches are threatening to use cat excrement and dead dogs to cast spells on the country’s government, for introducing taxes on those practicing the paranormal.

They went to the country’s southern plains and the Danube river yesterday and hurled the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Romanian witches to use ‘cat poo, dead dog’ curse on country’s taxmen.

‘Big fat Indian wedding’ brings New Zealand traffic to a halt

WELLINGTON – The lavish Indian wedding of Chicago millionaire and heir Vikram Aditya Kumar is said to have disrupted traffic on Balmoral road in Auckland.

The Bollywood-style multi-million dollar wedding started off with a fleet of limousines and buses leaving the luxury Langham Hotel to a Balmoral back street, Stuff.co.nz reported.

Two white horses and five chestnut …. Read the original article  : ‘Big fat Indian wedding’ brings New Zealand traffic to a halt.

Philippines likely to impose no-sex rule on the beach

WASHINGTON – Philippine authorities may soon impose no-sex rule on the world famous beaches of Boracay island, according to the local mayor.

The plan comes after a television crew filmed two naked couples making out in public on New Year’s Day.

The clip showed one pair apparently having sex on the beach and the other locked in …. Source  : Philippines likely to impose no-sex rule on the beach.

US dance teacher arrested ‘for having sex with student, 16, in car’

LONDON – A 27-year-old teacher at Plainfield North High School, Illinois, has been arrested for allegedly having sex with one of her own teenage students.

Ashley Blumenshine was arrested behind a department store in Plainfield after police caught her in a car with the boy aged 16. Police believe that they had had sex shortly before …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US dance teacher arrested ‘for having sex with student, 16, in car’.

Jilted US man arrested for ‘making exploding sex toy’ to send to ex-lover

LONDON – A jilted man in the US has been arrested after he allegedly made an exploding sex toy to give to his ex-girlfriend as a Christmas gift.

According to the police, Terry Allen Lester, 37, from Waseca, Minnesota, planned to hand the device to one of three ex-girlfriends after the relationship ended on a sour … Read : Jilted US man arrested for ‘making exploding sex toy’ to send to ex-lover.

Five teenage Maoist girls surrender to police in Orissa

KEONJHAR – Five teenaged Maoist girls have laid down their arms in front of top police officials in Orissa’s Keonjhar District.

They surrendered their arms and ammunition in the presence of Yashwant Jethwa, the Deputy Inspector General (D.I.G.) of police.

“Today, five Naxalite Maoist cadres, who were active in Kalinganagar divisional committee have surrendered before us. One … Read more >>.

Murdered Brit Indian woman told pal that crying had become her new hobby

LONDON – Murdered Brit-Indian woman Anni Dewani is reported to have texted her close pal a message that said:”Crying has become my new hobby” six days before she died.

The unnamed pal claimed yesterday that Anni also tore off her engagement ring and threw it at fianc??? Shrien during a bust-up days before her lavish wedding, …. Source article  : Murdered Brit Indian woman told pal that crying had become her new hobby.

Pentagon seeks 78 billion dollar defense budget cut

WASHINGTON – US Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates has said that Pentagon will seek 78 billion dollars in cuts to the defense budget over the next five years in a surprise move that will reduce the size of the Army and Marine Corps.

He also reportedly asked Pentagon to squeeze almost all growth from its … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pentagon seeks 78 billion dollar defense budget cut.

Talks on North Korea should begin soon: US envoy

BEIJING – On North Korea’s request for negotiations to end the crisis on the Korean Peninsula, Obama administration envoys reportedly met with their Chinese counterparts to initiate six party talks, with one saying that he is hopeful that serious talks on Pyongyang would begin soon.

According to The New York Times, the comment by Stephen …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Talks on North Korea should begin soon: US envoy.

Extreme cold partially freezes Kashmir’s famous Dal Lake

SRINAGAR – Sub-zero temperatures partially froze the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar.

Locals were seen walking on the lake, while others warmed their hands using traditional fire pots known as ‘Kangri’.

“Due to the continuous fall in the temperature, the Dal Lake is freezing partially. It is difficult to row my shikara (gondola-like boat) on it and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US, IMF criticise Pak fuel price hike reversal

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has called the Pakistan Government’s decision to reverse the controversial fuel price hikes a “mistake”, as it undermined its efforts to bolster the nation’s ailing economy.

On Thursday, Pakistan’s beleaguered Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani caved into political pressure and reversed the fuel price hikes, in a … Original article on : US, IMF criticise Pak fuel price hike reversal.

Aarushi case: Talwars to receive CBI closure report, next hearing on Jan.21

GHAZIABAD – A special court in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, on Friday posted January 21 as the next date of hearing on the Central Bureau of Investigation’s (CBI’s) December 29, 2010 closure report in the Aarushi-Hemraj double murder case.

The court also ordered the CBI to give a copy of the closure report to Aarushi’s parents-Dr.Rajesh …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Aarushi case: Talwars to receive CBI closure report, next hearing on Jan.21.

Vice-President Ansari opens Purana Qila light and sound show in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Vice-President Mohammad Hamid Ansari on Thursday inaugurated ‘Ishq-e-Dilli’ son-et-lumiere (sound and light show) in New Delhi.

The show told the story of Delhi using cutting edge projection and laser technology on the ruins of the historic Purana Qila.

Ansari who seemed excited after watching the show, said that it would draw both locals and …. Source  : Vice-President Ansari opens Purana Qila light and sound show in Delhi.

Most of French, Germans consider Islam ‘a threat’ to national identity: Poll

PARIS – Almost half of the French and German populations considers Islam ‘a threat’ to national identity, according to new Media poll.

The Mail Online quoted the poll conducted by France’s Le Monde newspaper as saying that 42 percent of French and 40 percent of Germans consider the presence of Islamic communities ‘a threat’ to … Read more : Most of French, Germans consider Islam ‘a threat’ to national identity: Poll.

UK warns of 26/11style terror attack threats on airports, transport system

LONDON – UK has issued a fresh terror alert in the country amid fears of a Mumbai-style attack on airports and the London transport system.

According to the Daily Mail, security officials raised the specific threat to the transport network, which means that an attack is ‘highly likely’.

“The threat level to the UK is at severe, …. Original source  : UK warns of 26/11style terror attack threats on airports, transport system.

Tibetans urge Dalai Lama not to retire

DHARAMSALA – The Tibetan Parliament-in-exile has appealed to the Dalai Lama, its exiled spiritual leader not to retire.

The Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Tibetan Parliament submitted a memorandum to this effect to the Dalai Lama on Thursday.

Pempa Tsering, Speaker of the Tibetan Parliament said that people of Tibet still needed the Dalai Lama’s leadership.

“At this … Read more »»».

Women ‘queuing up’ to have sex with Singapore Casanova

KUALA LUMPUR – A number of Malaysian women are lining up to bed a Singaporean man after he posted recordings of him having sex with his female partners on his blog.

Apparently, these women want to “check out” Gary Ng’s skill in bed after seeing what he was capable …. Original source  : Women ‘queuing up’ to have sex with Singapore Casanova.

HMS Invincible may become a Chinese disco

LONDON – A Chinese restaurant tycoon wants to turn HMS Invincible, the venerable warship, into a vast nightclub.

Kin Bong Lam has submitted a 5million pounds bid to the Ministry of Defence for Invincible.

The carrier, once flagship of the British fleet, is currently languishing in Portsmouth’s dockyard with her …. Original article  : HMS Invincible may become a Chinese disco.

Foreign Minister Krishna visits Afghanistan

NEW DELHI – External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna will begin his two-day visit to Afghanistan from Saturday.

Krishna is visiting Afghanistan at the invitation of Afghanistan Foreign Minister Zalmai Rassoul.

“The visit is part of the regular high level consultations between the two Governments, …. Read the original article  : Foreign Minister Krishna visits Afghanistan.

TB sufferer given 6 months to live in 1951celebrates diamond wedding

LONDON – A TB sufferer in UK, who had been given just six months to live in 1951, is now celebrating his 60th diamond wedding anniversary.

Terry Capes was so ill with tuberculosis that he arrived at his nupitals on a stretcher.

Doctors had given him just … Read more »»».

Madurai court issues non-bailable warrant against AIADMK leader Panneerselvam

MADURAI – A Madurai court has issued non-bailable warrants against former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam and 19 other All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) leaders in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Madurai court issues non-bailable warrant against AIADMK leader Panneerselvam.

Rupam Pathak’s husband backs sexual abuse claim against BJP MLA

IMPHAL – The husband of Rupam Pathak, the woman who stabbed Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA from Bihar’s Purnea district Raj Kishore Kesri to death on Tuesday, has backed her allegation that the politician had raped her on …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

India’s rise welcomed as positive factor: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday said the world expected India to play a more important role in the global polity and economy as the country’s rise as an emerging nation was seen as a positive factor in international relations.

“The world expects India to play a more important role in the management …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : India’s rise welcomed as positive factor: PM.

Shoeshine man adds lustre to image of Kashmiris

SRINAGAR – Sometimes, the simple story of a man can tell the complex story of an entire people. And that is perhaps so with shoeshine man Shafi Sheikh who has watched events unfold over the decades from his perch at the famed Lal Chowk in this Jammu and Kashmir capital and is described by friends …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Engage overseas young Indians to meet India’s challenges: Pitroda

NEW DELHI – Young overseas Indians should come to India to discover opportunities and meet the challenges of a complex and chaotic land, the prime minister’s advisor on education and innovation Sam Pitroda said Saturday.

There are lots of opportunities for (the) young to come to India in different ways, Pitroda told a session on … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Engage overseas young Indians to meet India’s challenges: Pitroda.

Petha out of bounds at Agra stations

AGRA – The famous Agra petha has disappeared from railway stations in this Taj Mahal city.

Buying a kilo or two of petha — a sweet made out of sugar-soaked pumpkin — has always been a must for passengers of trains that halt in Agra.
Thanks to a raging feud between the railway authorities and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Petha out of bounds at Agra stations.

A taxi with photos of the dead!

SINGAPORE – If you ever visit Singapore and take a ride in a taxi full of photographs, be wary – because they might be pictures of dead people.

Lovell Tan, a Singaporean woman, told citizen journalism website Stomp that she came across a taxi which, on the inside, was decorated with obituary photos, toys and … Original source on Gaea Times at : A taxi with photos of the dead!.

Julian Assange hires PR firm to rebuild ‘ruined’ image

SYDNEY – Julian Assange, the founder of the WikiLeaks website, has appointed a public relations firm after a series of damaging blows to his image.

The whistle blower, who is on bail during his fight to avoid extradition to Sweden over sexual assault allegations, has taken a battering in the media as his personal life is … Original article on : Julian Assange hires PR firm to rebuild ‘ruined’ image.

The mutt who mimicked the Nazi salute and mocked Hitler

LONDON – Documents released by the German Foreign Office have revealed that back in 1941, while the U.S. joined the war after Pearl Harbour and Germany invaded the Soviet Union, the Nazis were busy dealing with a Finnish dog called Jackie.

The papers indicate that Adolf Hitler’s regime was increasingly angry that the animal, which had …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : The mutt who mimicked the Nazi salute and mocked Hitler.

US’ worst fears realised as Pak Govt stalls economic reforms to stay in power

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s governing party has patched its coalition government back together at a steep price that officials in Washington had feared: the collapse of the reforms critical to stabilising the nation’s economy.

Muttaheda Qaumi Movement rejoined the Pakistan People’s Party-led federal government on Friday after its reservations over petroleum prices and reform of the General …. Original source  : US’ worst fears realised as Pak Govt stalls economic reforms to stay in power.

US drone missiles kill six suspected terrorists in North Waziristan

PESHAWAR – Six suspected terrorists were killed in a US drone attack on a vehicle in North Waziristan, according to intelligence officials.

The drone fired four missiles at the vehicle and a house in the Pakistani tribal region on Friday. The identities and nationalities of the suspected terrorists killed in the attack were not known, the … Read more : US drone missiles kill six suspected terrorists in North Waziristan.

Dense fog hits normal life, disrupts air-rail services in Delhi

New Delhi, Jan 8 9ANI): Most of the people in national capital woke up this morning to witness dense fog and chilly weather, with reports claiming that the prevailing conditions have disrupted air and rail services.

Air operations at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport were affected due to the dense fog leading to delay … Read more >>.

John Edwards dismisses mistress engagement reports

WASHINGTON – Ex-North Carolina senator John Edwards has denied reports that he is getting married to his longtime mistress Rielle Hunter.

Responding to the National Enquirer’s story that Edwards got engaged to the mother of his lovechild just weeks after the death of his wife, Elizabeth, a source close to the former presidential candidate said that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : John Edwards dismisses mistress engagement reports.

Julian Assange signs ???1m book deal to tell his ‘fascinating life’

LONDON – Julian Assange, the founder of the WikiLeaks website, has signed a one million pounds book deal to tell his life story.

He has signed the deal as he battles extradition over alleged sex offences.

The whistle blower, who is on bail, said that the cash would help him fight charges of sexual assault made by … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Julian Assange signs ???1m book deal to tell his ‘fascinating life’.

Death of a liberal: Pakistan’s decline continues (Comment)

The Islamic fanaticism nurtured by powerful sections of the Pakistani establishment has begun devouring the country itself. The original purpose of encouraging and using such psychotic elements against India has, therefore, been turned on its head.

As much is evident from Pakistan’s Interior Minister Rehman Malik’s admission that when the killing of the governor of … Original source on Gaea Times at : Death of a liberal: Pakistan’s decline continues (Comment).

Foster parents in Russia may undergo special training

MOSCOW – Terming parenting “a super serious matter”, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has said prospective foster parents should undergo mandatory training.

At present, Russia does not have laws regulating training for foster parents.
Russian families wishing to adopt an orphan are not obliged to undergo any special psychological training prior to approval of a formal …. Source  : Foster parents in Russia may undergo special training.

Gabe Zimmerman Killed In Arizona Shooting

TUCSON (GaeaTimes.com)- Known by friends and colleagues as friendly, dedicated and good humored, Gabe Zimmerman, 30, succumbed to the mass killing that took place in Tucson, Arizona. He was one of the six people who lost their lives in the shooting. Gabe Zimmerman, was a dedicated aide and friend of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, who … Read : Gabe Zimmerman Killed In Arizona Shooting.

Oz woman’s excuse for drink driving – her cat was hungry

SYDNEY – A Victorian woman, who was caught drink driving, defended herself by saying that she was on her way home after buying her hungry cat some food.

The 27-year-old from Mudgegonga was pulled over by Yackandandah police in Victoria’s northeast on Saturday night, reports the Sydney …. Original article  : Oz woman’s excuse for drink driving – her cat was hungry.

Girls lead the binge-drinking culture in New Zealand

WELLINGTON – More and more girls are joining the binge-drinking culture and ending up in hospital in New Zealand, it has been revealed.

A pilot programme in Wellington by the Ministry of Health has provided a better picture of the impact of the country’s drinking culture.

The new … Read more »»».

David Miliband approaches BBC for a TV role

LONDON – In a surprise move, Labour leadership candidate David Miliband is reportedly considering a role in television apparently with the intention of splashing water on brother Ed’s hopes that he can be persuaded to join the shadow cabinet.

Miliband has … Original source on Gaea Times at : David Miliband approaches BBC for a TV role.

Pakistan aims to double trade with China in ’shortest possible time’

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has underlined the need for doubling trade with China from current seven billion dollars to 15 billion dollars in the shortest possible time.

Talking to a visiting 100-member Chinese youth delegation, Gilani said 36 projects had been identified …. Source  : Pakistan aims to double trade with China in ’shortest possible time’.

Peace Mumbai, Indian Muslim intellectuals condemn Taseer’s killing

LAHORE – ‘Peace Mumbai’ activists and Indian Muslim intellectuals have strongly condemned the brutal assassination of Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer and expressed their apprehensions over growing religious intolerance in Pakistan.

Taseer was murdered for taking a principled stand on the controversial blasphemy law…Rising religious …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rahul Gandhi to visit Uttar Pradesh from Monday

LUCKNOW – Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi will undertake a two-day visit of Uttar Pradesh from Monday during which he is expected to visit five districts and interact with college students.

National Student Union of India (NSUI) State President Rahul Rai said Gandhi will be visiting …. Source  : Rahul Gandhi to visit Uttar Pradesh from Monday.

India’s own fighter jet Tejas to join air force Monday

BANGALORE – India’s long-delayed, indigenously-developed, multi-role combat aircraft Tejas will join the Indian Air Force (IAF) Monday for initial operational clearance (IOC) in this aerospace hub.

Considered to be the world’s smallest military aircraft with a single seat, Tejas will form a 200-strong fleet for the IAF to replace the ageing Russian made MiG-21 fleet, … Read more >>>.

Polish housewives strip for calendar to help sick child

WARSAW – A group of eleven housewives in the Polish city of Lodz have shed their embarrassment and their clothes for a noble cause – to raise money for a sick child.

Four-year old Julia Koper was born with a mysterious genetic disorder which left her both physically and mentally disabled, requiring a special walker …. Original article  : Polish housewives strip for calendar to help sick child.

Pakistan seeks German defence equipment to enhance counter-terrorism capacity

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has asked Germany to allow the export of its defence equipment so that Islamabad can increase its capacity to fight terrorists.

“Pakistan urges Germany to liberalise its export control policy towards it so that we could get export licences for defence equipment … to enhance our capacity to counter terrorism,” the Dawn quoted …. Read the original article  : here.

Vodafone mobile records leaked

LONDON – Criminal groups have paid for the private details of some Vodafone customers to blackmail them. Other people have obtained logins to check their spouse’s communications.

The personal details, accessible from any computer because they are kept on an Internet site rather than Vodafone’s internal system, include numbers dialed or texted, plus the time and …. Source article  : Vodafone mobile records leaked.

Orissa Police gun down nine Maoists in Rayagada encounter

RAYAGADA – Orissa Police gunned down nine Maoists during an encounter in Rayagada District on Sunday morning.

“The gun battle took place in Kashipur-Kalyansinghpur border area, after the police conducted a raid following information about presence of the ultras there,” said Director General of Police Manmohan Praharaj.

“Bodies of nine rebels and some weapons and explosive materials …. Source article  : Orissa Police gun down nine Maoists in Rayagada encounter.

Channel 4 show that teaches teens Kama Sutra positions labelled ‘porn’

LONDON – Britain’s leading broadcasting watchdog has labelled a television show, designed to teach teenagers Kama Sutra positions, as ‘porn’.

The controversial series ‘The Joy Of Teen Sex’ appearing on Channel 4 goes out after the watershed on January 19 and contains graphic images of lesbian sex and also offers a ‘guide to anal sex’.

Mediawatch … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Channel 4 show that teaches teens Kama Sutra positions labelled ‘porn’.

Jack Straw under fire over Pakistan ‘easy meat’ remark

LONDON – A prominent UK politician has been accused of ’stereotyping’ a whole community after suggesting that some British Pakistani men regard white girls as ‘easy meat’ for sexual abuse.

Jack Straw, a former foreign secretary and home minister, expressed his concerns on Friday after two men of Asian-origin who raped and sexually assaulted girls in …. Original source  : Jack Straw under fire over Pakistan ‘easy meat’ remark.

Indo-Pak Foreign Secretaries likely to meet in Thimphu next month

NEW DELHI – Foreign Secretary Nirupama Roa is likely to meet her Pakistani counterpart Salman Bashir in Bhutan’s capital Thimphu on the sidelines of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Standing Committee meeting on February 6 and 7.

The External Affairs Ministry spokesman in response to a question on the issue confirmed that Nirupama … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Indo-Pak Foreign Secretaries likely to meet in Thimphu next month.

Oz considering banning electronic tickets, automatic baggage check-ins over security reasons

MELBOURNE – In a latest move on the crackdown of the airport security, Australia could soon ban electronic tickets and automatic baggage check-ins, and bar non-passengers from entering terminals.

According to news.com.au, a rough design of the strict new security measures is being thrashed out by federal authorities worried about the ease with which criminal gangs … Read more : Oz considering banning electronic tickets, automatic baggage check-ins over security reasons.

Blasphemy Law bill should ‘immediately be withdrawn’ from Pak NA: JUI-F

KARACHI – Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-F (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has asked the Pakistan Government to withdraw a private bill seeking an amendment to the country’s Blasphemy Law.

“A private bill tabled in National Assembly seeking amendment in Blasphemy Law should immediately be withdrawn,” Geo News quoted Fazl, as saying, at a press conference in Karachi after …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Zardari likely to appoint former AG Latif Khosa as Punjab Governor

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari is likely to appoint former Attorney General Sardar Latif Khosa as the new Punjab Governor, according to Advisor to the President Qayyum Soomro.

The decision was taken after considering various names for the vacant post, and the notification is expected to be issued by Sunday (today), Soomro told Express … Read : Zardari likely to appoint former AG Latif Khosa as Punjab Governor.

Indian in UK claims diplomatic immunity to escape prosecution for ‘attack’ on wife

LONDON – A high-ranking Indian diplomat in the UK has claimed immunity from prosecution after being quizzed by police over allegations that he attacked his wife at their official residence.

Anil Verma-India’s trade ambassador to the UK-allegedly assualted his wife after a heated argument.

Police were called to the couple’s home in Golders Green, North-West London, last …. Original source  : Indian in UK claims diplomatic immunity to escape prosecution for ‘attack’ on wife.

‘I wouldn’t have left a dog to die like that,’ says uncle of murdered Indian origin bride

LONDON – The uncle of Anni Dewani, the Indian-origin bride who was killed in her honeymoon in Cape Town, has dismissed Shrien Dewani’s earlier claims that he was pushed out of the hijacked car’s window before his wife was shot dead, and asked why he failed to ‘put up a fight’ to save her.

“It is …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘I wouldn’t have left a dog to die like that,’ says uncle of murdered Indian origin bride.

China to overturn death sentences if evidence obtained through torture

BEIJING – China’s Supreme People’s Court (SPC) would reportedly overturn death sentences in cases where evidence was collected by illegal means in a bid to limit applications for capital punishment and pressurise local courts to check evidences more strictly.

The China Daily quoted SPC Vice-President Zhang Jun as saying … Read more »»».

Pak minorities term slain liberal politician Taseer as ‘Shaheed-e-Haq’

ISLAMABAD – The minority communities in Pakistan have termed slain Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer as ‘Shaheed-e-Haq’ for his outburst against the extremist forces, and for protecting the rights of minorities in the country.

The minorities observed Sunday as the ‘Solidarity Day’ to … Original article on : Pak minorities term slain liberal politician Taseer as ‘Shaheed-e-Haq’.

Nazi mass murderer shielded from justice for 10-yrs by West German intelligence

LONDON – Adolf Eichmann, who was the supreme logistical mastermind of the Nazi Holocaust of six million Jews, is said to have been shielded from justice for a decade by West German intelligence.

Newly released documents from a Munich archive revealed the intelligence services of both America and Germany knew where Eichmann was hiding almost a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nazi mass murderer shielded from justice for 10-yrs by West German intelligence.

Hitler’s propaganda chief Goebbels revealed as a ’sex-crazed lothario’

LONDON – A book has revealed that Nazi Germany’s propaganda chief Joseph Goebbels, who walked with a limp, had scores of affairs and was a lothario nicknamed “the ram”.

The book, written by Peter Longerich, a history professor at the University of London, is the first work to address Goebbels as more than simply the propaganda …. Read the original article  : here.

World’s oldest dad, 94, puts ‘3-times-a-night’ sex life on hold to raise newborn

LONDON – Indian farmer Ramjeet Raghav, who became the world’s oldest father at 94, has put his ‘three-times-a-night’ sex life on hold.

And the reason is that he and his wife Shakuntala want to focus on raising their new son Karamjit.

“I’m healthy and I enjoy sex with my wife. I think it’s very important for …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : World’s oldest dad, 94, puts ‘3-times-a-night’ sex life on hold to raise newborn.

UK tour firm slammed for $3100 Adolf Hitler tour

MELBOURNE – A British tour company has been slammed over plans for a luxury 3,100 dollars package tour of sites relating to Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler.

Historians seem to be divided over the 30 members, eight-day trip, with some saying it will become a ‘perverse pilgrimage’, reports News.com.au.

The trip, scheduled for June and titled ‘Face of …. Source article  : UK tour firm slammed for $3100 Adolf Hitler tour.

Now, hi-tech material undies that promise girls perfect hourglass figures

LONDON – Lingerie firm Ultimo has launched a new range of undies that promises to give women perfect hourglass figures.

The undies are created from top-secret hi-tech material, and the firm claims they not only boost breasts by two-cup sizes, but also slim the waist and stomach, the Sun reported.

The Instant Body Fixer has been described … Read : Now, hi-tech material undies that promise girls perfect hourglass figures.

US scientist figures out what would be perfect performance in sports

LONDON – A sports scientist in the US has worked out what would be the perfect performance in sports like golf, running, swimming, and others.

John Brenkus, who presents Sport Science on satellite channel ESPN, used statistics to find out how records have been broken over the years, the Sun reported.

He also took into account what …. Original source  : US scientist figures out what would be perfect performance in sports.

Call to allow Malay-Indian workers staying abroad to return to country within 30 days

KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Associated Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Maicci) has reportedly proposed that foreign workers of Indian origin should be allowed to return and work in the country within 30 days.

The Star quoted President K.K. Eswaran as saying that the chamber had made the proposal to the Home Ministry.

“We have …. Source article  : Call to allow Malay-Indian workers staying abroad to return to country within 30 days.

Noted writer explores lives of Indians in South Africa

NEW DELHI – South Africa is a rainbow nation with complexities of colours and strands of life, says noted vernacular writer Kusum Ansal, who has come out with her new book “Beyond Silence”.

Published in both Hindi and English, the novel was released in the capital Sunday. The book is a vivid description of …. Source  : Noted writer explores lives of Indians in South Africa.

China betrayed friendship, says Farooq on reported Chinese incursion

JAMMU – China had “betrayed the concept of friendship”, union minister Farooq Abdullah has said amid reports of “incursions” into Indian territory in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ladakh region.

China has betrayed the concept of friendship despite the fact that the Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao had promised friendship during his visit to India, Abdullah …. Original source  : China betrayed friendship, says Farooq on reported Chinese incursion.

Four children injured in Delhi factory explosion

NEW DELHI – Four children suffered burn injuries when a drum containing chemicals exploded in a south-east Delhi factory today.

According to sources, the incident was reported from a factory in Okhla Phase-II at around 9 a.m.

The exact reason for the explosion is being investigated.

The injured children have been rushed to a nearby hospital. (ANI)
… Read : Four children injured in Delhi factory explosion.

Gorkhaland demand revived, calls for shutdown

SILIGURI – Renewing demand for a separate state of Gorkhaland, the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha has called for a prolonged shutdown beginning from January 12.

Announcing the decision, party general secretary Roshan Giri has said that the first shutdown would be from January 12 to 15.

“This would be followed by a second shutdown from January 19 to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gorkhaland demand revived, calls for shutdown.

Hindu guru Swami Nithyananda admits ’sleeping with more than 20 women’

KUALA LUMPUR – A Hindu guru embroiled in a sex scandal has admitted to sleeping with more than 20 women, including a Tamil porn actress.

According to Sin Chew Daily, those who had sex with Swami Nithyananda included his female disciples, some of whom were from Singapore, reports the Star Online.

The scandal came to light … Read more : Hindu guru Swami Nithyananda admits ’sleeping with more than 20 women’.

Tribals clash on Assam-Meghalaya border, nine killed

GUWAHATI – Clashes between Garo and Rabha tribals along the Assam-Meghalaya boundary showed no signs of respite with the death toll rising to nine following the death of two more persons.

According to official sources, two persons were killed in a group clash at village Gendabari under Agia police station in Goalpara district, while … Read more >>>.

India’s own first supersonic fighter Tejas handed to Air Force

BANGALORE – India’s own first supersonic multi-role combat aircraft Tejas, meant to replace MiG 21s and MiG 23s, was handed to the Air Force on Monday after initial operational clearance.

The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), considered to be the world’s smallest military aircraft with a single seat, is among top eight aircraft in the world … Original source on Gaea Times at : India’s own first supersonic fighter Tejas handed to Air Force.

Mammoth Pak rally demands Taseer assassin’s release, Blasphemy Law bill withdrawal

KARACHI – A conglomerate of religious and politico-religious parties organised a mammoth “Tahaffuz Namoos-e-Risalat” rally in the Pakistani metropolis on Sunday, and demanded of the government to immediately withdraw the private bill seeking amendments in the controversial Blasphemy Law.

Hundreds of thousands of people belonging to all religious schools of thought attended the rally and warned … Read more >>>.

Detained Arizona shooting suspect “planned to assassinate Giffords”

WASHINGTON – Evidence seized from the house of Jared Lee Loughner, the primary suspect in connection with the deadly shooting in Tucson in the United States, has revealed that he had planned to ‘assassinate’ Representative Gabrielle Giffords, according to documents filed in the Federal District Court in Phoenix.

Giffords, an Arizona Democrat, and 18 others were …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Detained Arizona shooting suspect “planned to assassinate Giffords”.

Coalition with PPP intact but political crisis not over yet: PML-N

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) has said it has decided not to force Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) ministers out of the Punjab Government, but warned that the political crisis is not over yet.

PML-N spokesman Ahsan Iqbal said that Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani had assured party chief Nawaz Sharif that the PPP-led government …. Original article  : Coalition with PPP intact but political crisis not over yet: PML-N.

US underestimated China’s military modernization: Gates

WASHINGTON – US Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, who is on a three-day visit to China, has said that his country was surprised by the pace of China’s military development, adding that the American intelligence has underestimated elements of Beijing’s military modernization.

“We’ve been watching these developments all along. I’ve been concerned about the development …. Original source  : US underestimated China’s military modernization: Gates.

Richard Winters Passes Away

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- Former Army officer of United States Major Richard “Dick” D. Winters breathed his last on January 2 in central Pennsylvania, his family friend announced the news on Monday. Retired Army Col. Cole Kingseed, who was a close friend of Major Richard Winters said that the officer was laid to rest at …. Source  : Richard Winters Passes Away.

Nagpur farmers protest against ban put on export of agricultural products

NAGPUR – Farmers in Maharashtra’s Nagpur district protested on Monday against the export ban of various agricultural products by the state government.

Opposing the government’s decision to ban export of cotton and onion, agitated farmers under the leadership of state …. Original source  : Nagpur farmers protest against ban put on export of agricultural products.

Indians face problem in meeting relatives in Pakistan due to non-clearance of papers

POONCH – Residents of Jammu and Kashmir have been facing problems in meeting with their relatives in Pakistan due to non-clearance of papers in Islamabad.

Mumtaz Khan, in-charge of a cross border bus service agency, said that there has been severe drop in the number of passengers …. Source  : Indians face problem in meeting relatives in Pakistan due to non-clearance of papers.

First Asian aid caravan returns successfully to Delhi

NEW DELHI – The first Asian caravan that went to Gaza with aid has reached to New Delhi.

The caravan, which included 120 people from 17 countries, also had an eight-month-old baby on board along with a 70-year-old.

In face of heavy odds and the dangers along the route, the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Turkish students protest faculty being fired over porno thesis

NEW DELHI – Around 600 Turkish students have protested in front of Bilgi University in Istanbul after the decision was taken to fire three of its faculty for allowing a student to film a porno as his graduation thesis.

The students demanded [..] Read the original article: here.

Man blames Viagra, wife’s menopause for filming women in changing room

LONDON – A middle-aged man in Britain, who escaped being jailed after he filmed women in a changing room at a leisure centre, has blamed Viagra and his wife’s menopause for his perverted behaviour.

Neil Smith, 57, was caught while filming a woman, who …. Source article  : Man blames Viagra, wife’s menopause for filming women in changing room.

Indian’s sham UK marriage exposed after bride-to-be beds another man

LONDON – An Indian man’s plan to stage a fake marriage to a Latvian woman in Britain has been exposed after the bride-to-be was caught in bed with another man.

Irina Iljina, 22, from Latvia, was due to marry Indian national Parminder Singh, 22, on December 17, and as …. Original article  : Indian’s sham UK marriage exposed after bride-to-be beds another man.

Brit grandma, 56, promises wedding to 9th toyboy is for keeps

LONDON – A grandmother in Britain, who is set to marry for the ninth time, has insisted that the marriage, to a toyboy 32-years her junior, will last forever.

Pat Higgins, 56, who has never married an older man, earned herself the title Black Widow …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brit grandma, 56, promises wedding to 9th toyboy is for keeps.

Scottish Indian comedian’s nervous ordeal for gaining Oz citizenship

SYDNEY – Scottish Indian comedian Danny Bhoy, who is a self-confessed hobo, has revealed that he went through a very nervous time while trying to gain citizenship in Australia.

Bhoy, 36, who was confirmed as a permanent resident last year, revealed that he suffered an ethical dilemma then …. Original article  : Scottish Indian comedian’s nervous ordeal for gaining Oz citizenship.

Iranian president’s 34-yr-old Peugeot set to fetch 1m dlrs at auction

WELLINGTON – Iranian president Mahmood Ahmadinejad’s 34-year-old Peugeot 504 is up for grabs and expected to fetch 1 million dollars at auction.

The 1970s Peugeot may not be everyone’s choice, but funds raised from the sale will go … Read more »»».

Pakistan-China friendship going strong: Zardari

KARACHI – The friendship between Pakistan and China is growing from strength to strength and has withstood the test of time, Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has said.

Addressing a Chinese youth delegation at the Governor’s House here, Zardari said that both countries share a friendship rooted in … Read more >>>.

Maharashtra Cabinet recommends removal of Tiwari as Information Commissioner

MUMBAI – The Maharashtra Cabinet has recommended the removal of Ramanand Tiwari as the state’s Information Commissioner following allegations of withholding information on the controversial Adarsh Housing Society in Mumbai.

According to reports, the cabinet has sent the recommendation to Governor K Sankaranarayanan in … Read : Maharashtra Cabinet recommends removal of Tiwari as Information Commissioner.

Blasphemy laws should remain intact in Pakistan: PPP leader

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leader Chaudhry Aitzaz Ahsan has said the country’s blasphemy laws should remain intact, and if Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer committed any mistake or blasphemy, instead of killing him he should have … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Blasphemy laws should remain intact in Pakistan: PPP leader.

Pastor says Oz FM Rudd to blame for floods

BRISBANE – A Christian pastor has blamed Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd for the floods devastating Queensland.

Daniel Nalliah from the Catch the Fire Ministries wrote on his website that because Rudd “spoke against Israel” in December 2010, Queensland had been … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pastor says Oz FM Rudd to blame for floods.

Nawaz Sharif expresses grief over ex-Pak Interior Minister’s death

LAHORE – Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) chief Nawaz Sharif has expressed grief and sorrow over the death of former Interior Minister Naseerullah Babar.

Babar died of protracted illness on Monday at the age of 83.

In a condolence message to the bereaved family, Sharif praised the political struggle and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Online images show test flight of Chinese stealth fighter

WASHINGTON – Online images have appeared of the first test flight of a Chinese stealth fighter, sparking speculation that a country which is otherwise secretive of its military developments could have deliberately leaked the visuals to send out a powerful message to the world.

According to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ), online images, Twitter accounts …. Source  : Online images show test flight of Chinese stealth fighter.

Malaysian casanova conman nabbed in India

KUALA LUMPUR – A Malaysian national has been arrested in India on charges that he had married and cheated at least four women.

Police said Ameer, 31, staying in Kasimedu village near Puducherry, claimed to be a producer of short films in Malaysia and acquainted with his victims through online social networking sites, reports Malaysia …. Read the original article  : here.

Pakistan should come forward for talks: Farooq Abdullah

JAMMU – Commenting on the current scenario in Pakistan, Union Minister Farooq Abdullah has said that Islamabad should come forth for dialogue on all bilateral issues, including the Kashmir imbroglio.

Talking to reporters on the sidelines of a function here, Abdullah said: “I just hope that they (Pakistan) will come forward to talk to India. We … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pakistan should come forward for talks: Farooq Abdullah.

Ex-Pak Interior Minister Naseerullah Babar passes away

PESHAWAR – Former Pakistan Interior Minister Naseerullah Babar died of protracted illness on Monday at the age of 83.

Babar had been paralyzed for two years, and his condition deteriorated last Sunday after which he was admitted to the hospital where he breathed his last, the Daily Times reports.

He had served as Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor from 1975 … Read : Ex-Pak Interior Minister Naseerullah Babar passes away.

International sanctions delaying Iran’s nuke program ambitions: Hillary Clinton

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who is currently in Abu Dhabi on a tour of Gulf countries, has said that Iran’s ambition to produce a nuclear weapon soon has been delayed by international sanctions.

“Iran has had technological problems that have made it slow down its timetable. The sanctions are working. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : International sanctions delaying Iran’s nuke program ambitions: Hillary Clinton.

Briton’s love affair with marmalade fast shifting to peanut butter, chocolate spread

LONDON – Traditional British preserve marmalade, which used to be a favourite breakfast staple, is fast losing its place on the table as more people prefer peanut butter and chocolate spread.

According to sales figures, marmalade is losing its charm along with honey, … Read more : Briton’s love affair with marmalade fast shifting to peanut butter, chocolate spread.

UN-backed project to conserve Buddha’s birthplace underway

NEW YORK – An international team of archaeologists has begun a three-year survey, coordinated by the UNESCO, of the ruins of Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha in Nepal.

The survey on Lumbini, a world-renowned Buddhist pilgrimage destination, has been funded by the Japanese …. Source article  : UN-backed project to conserve Buddha’s birthplace underway.

UK cops couldn’t comment on Asian sex gangs for fear of appearing racist

LONDON – Police in Britain have revealed that they could not speak out about the Asian sex gangs working in UK because they were afraid of appearing “institutionally racist”.

Mick Gradwell, a former detective superintendent, said the targeting of underage and vulnerable … Read more : UK cops couldn’t comment on Asian sex gangs for fear of appearing racist.

North Korea soldiers chase defectors into China to kill

LONDON – In a rare cross-border pursuit, North Korean troops chased their seven defectors into China and shot five of them dead, the Daily Mail reported here.

According to South Korean newspaper Chosun Ilbo, five were shot dead by North Korean border guards and two were wounded and taken back to North Korea.
The North … Original source on Gaea Times at : North Korea soldiers chase defectors into China to kill.

China’s rights ‘action plan’ falls short of fulfilling promises: HR watchdog

BEIJING – China’s National Human Rights Action Plan of the past two years has led to ‘a series of unfulfilled promises,’ Human Rights Watch has said.

The Christian Science Monitor quoted the Human Rights Watch report as saying that over the past two years, when the National Human Rights Action Plan (2009-2010) was in force, … Original article on : China’s rights ‘action plan’ falls short of fulfilling promises: HR watchdog.

Gorkhaland demand revived in Darjeeling

DARJEELING – Normal life in Darjeeling came to a halt on Wednesday as the Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) began the first phase of shutdown.

Streets in Darjeeling, as well as sub-divisions of Kalimpong and Kerseong wore a deserted look and shops remained shut as GJM activists marched on roads, shouting slogans for the creation of Gorkhaland.

Activists …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

UK slams Obama’s ‘France is America’s biggest ally’ comments

WASHINGTON – British political observers have criticised US President Barack Obama’s recent statement that France is America’s biggest ally, warning that such a message can undermine American-British ties.

“We don’t have a stronger friend and stronger ally than Nicolas Sarkozy, and the French people.” Obama said during a meeting with French President Nicolus Sarkozy in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Jihadi media is booming in Pakistan

KARACHI – The media is viewed by terrorist organisations as one of the fronts of jihad against their enemies.

Activists and supporters of jihadis favour the media platform, both the print and the electronic media, as also the Internet.

According to the Daily Times, Jihadis disseminate their message via various websites, magazines and disks in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Jihadi media is booming in Pakistan.

Over four in ten Americans say politics motivated attack on US Congresswoman

NEW YORK – Forty-five percent of Americans, or over four in ten, believe that Jared Loughner’s political views were “probably” a factor in leading him to shoot a US Congresswoman and others in Tucson, Arizona, on Saturday.

According to a new CBS News poll, one in three say they probably were not a factor, while 22 … Read more >>.

American politics must change after Arizona gun attack, says Bill Clinton

Port-au-PRINCE – Former US President Bill Clinton has said that the political climate in the United States must change in the wake of the shooting of a US Congresswoman and others in Arizona.

“No one intends to do anything that encourages this sort of behaviour, but political rhetoric falls on the unhinged and the hinged alike,” [..] Read the original article: here.

State Emergency Leads To School Closings In New York

NEW YORK CITY (GaeaTimes.com)- Following the declaration of a state emergency schools and colleges in New York have also declared for dismissal of classes. The National Weather Service on Tuesday announced that a major snow storm is likely to hit the state on Wednesday. The snow storm is expected to dump in atleast 8 to …. Original source  : State Emergency Leads To School Closings In New York.

Scant facilities for teachers and children in Assam

GUWAHATI – Hundreds of street children and teachers of Jyoti Kendra Programme under the Assam Sarva Siksha Abhiyan (ASSA) are demanding proper facilities.

Children said they have not been provided with proper infrastructural facilities and not even proper uniforms.

“Till date, not even a single student has been provided a table or a chair. Some sit on … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Scant facilities for teachers and children in Assam.

Health ministers confer at Hyderabad

HYDERABAD – The Ministers and Secretaries of health and medical education departments from different states of India are meeting here today.

About 25 Ministers and Secretaries of health and medical education are scheduled to take part in the two-day conference, which will be inaugurated by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Kiran Kumar Reddy.

Union Minister … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Health ministers confer at Hyderabad.

‘China’s military hardware development not aimed at any other country’

BEIJING – Guan Youfei, Deputy Director of Foreign Affairs Office of the Chinese Defense Ministry, has said that his country’s military hardware development is not aimed at any other country.

“The development of China’s military hardware is not aimed at any other country or any specific target and the timing was a matter of routine working [..] Read the original article: here.

Biden says US troops could stay in Afghanistan beyond 2014 if asked

KABUL – US Vice President Joe Biden has pledged that his country would continue to help Afghanistan beyond the 2014 target, which was set by both countries to have Afghan forces fully in charge of their own security.

During his visit to the war-torn country, Baiden reportedly toured a training academy for Afghan soldiers, had lunch … Original article on : Biden says US troops could stay in Afghanistan beyond 2014 if asked.

Army Chief appears before PAC

NEW DELHI – Army Chief V K Singh on Wednesday appeared before Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in connection with alleged irregularities in the canteen stores supplies.

The PAC had called the chiefs of the three services – the Army, the Air Force and the Navy – for a hearing after a Comptroller and Auditor … Read more >>>.

Five police officers transferred for hampering Taseer killing probe

RAWALPINDI – The Pakistan Government has ordered the transfer of five police officers who it felt were hampering investigations into the assassination of former Punjab Governor Salman Taseer.

According to the Daily Times, Regional Police Officer (RPO) Hamid Mukhtar Gondal transferred the head of the CPO office, Abid Shah, to the Establishment Branch for creating hurdles … Read more >>>.

After Labor leadership defeat, David Miliband signs up for Sunderland FC

LONDON – Since younger brother Ed Miliband defeated him to win the Labour Party leadership, former British foreign secretary David Miliband has left everyone guessing about what he would be doing next.

The man seen as the ultimate political geek has now reportedly left everyone surprised by taking a job at a football club.

The Daily Mail …. Original article  : After Labor leadership defeat, David Miliband signs up for Sunderland FC.

Jindal is cracking down on fake bath salts used by drug dealers

LOUISIANA – What could possibly be menacing about bath salts? Well, if you are the Indian-origin Governor of the American state of Louisiana, the issue is actually more than serious than it sounds.

According to Politico, Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal has had his office put out a press release announcing that drug dealers are using …. Source  : Jindal is cracking down on fake bath salts used by drug dealers.

‘Hugely embarrassing’ film on Sarkozy to show rise to power, divorce

LONDON – A new ‘hugely embarrassing’ film will depict French President Nicolas Sarkozy’s life, right from his rise to power to the day his previous wife left him.

Called ‘The Conquest’, the film is written by historian and screenwriter Patrick Rotman and is the first ever movie about a French president and will portray his rise … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Hugely embarrassing’ film on Sarkozy to show rise to power, divorce.

Five-hour-long London shop siege ends

LONDON – A man who threatened to blow himself up after barricading himself in a central London shop overnight has been arrested following a five-hour stand-off with police.
Large parts of central London remained closed to commuters this morning as police aimed to ensure there was no threat … Read : Five-hour-long London shop siege ends.

Fisherman killing: India registers formal complaint with Sri Lanka

NEW DELHI – India has formally lodged a protest with the Sri Lankan Government over its navy opening fire on Indian fishermen near the Tamil Nadu coast.

“We have received reports of the death of an Indian fisherman due to firing by Sri Lankan Navy personnel. Our High Commissioner …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Obama urges Americans to debate Tucson shooting ‘in a way that heals’

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has urged Americans to draw a lesson from the lives of the Tucson shooting victims and the actions of the heroes and to usher in a new era of civility in their honor.

US Representative Gabrielle Giffords, and 18 others were shot on January … Original source on Gaea Times at : Obama urges Americans to debate Tucson shooting ‘in a way that heals’.

Now, parliamentarians fake attendance scam surfaces in Pak Punjab Assembly

LAHORE – Following the fake degree scam involving scores of Pakistani lawmakers, a new scandal of fake attendances by some parliamentarians has surfaced in the Punjab Assembly.

After it was disclosed that about 22 legislators, including seven women, had made fake attendances during the Assembly’s present session, PA Acting …. Read the original article  : Now, parliamentarians fake attendance scam surfaces in Pak Punjab Assembly.

‘Golden voice’ homeless man turned announcer Williams headed to rehab

WASHINGTON – Voice-over artist Ted Williams, who had been a homeless man before he turned announcer for MSNBC, is set to check himself into rehab.

Williams, 53, who quickly became a YouTube sensation after a video showcasing his golden voice went viral, admitted on ‘Dr. …. Read the original article  : here.

UK teacher fired for writing novel on students’ sexual fantasies

LONDON – A female teacher in Britain has been fired after she wrote a novel that detailed her pupils’ sexual fantasies, truancy and even a criminal drug den beneath the school.

Leonora Rustamova, 40, known as Miss … Original source on Gaea Times at : UK teacher fired for writing novel on students’ sexual fantasies.

MoD warns Brit women soldiers ‘boozing will make their Bums Look Big’

LONDON – Female soldiers in Britain have been warned through an advert by the Ministry of Defence that they will end up with large bottoms if they do not drink sensibly.

The new advert, which targets their vanity in a bid to improve health, was …. Original source  : MoD warns Brit women soldiers ‘boozing will make their Bums Look Big’.

Brit council orders staff to seek written permission prior to office romance!

LONDON – A council in Britain has told its workers that they should apply in writing if they want to conduct a relationship with a colleague from the same office.

Fenland District Council proposed a policy under which “intimate behaviour during work time” could be classed as gross …. Source  : Brit council orders staff to seek written permission prior to office romance!.

Seething Hamza forced back into jail cell in UK

LONDON – Jailed hate preacher Abu Hamza was forced back into his cell by prison officers after refusing an order to return.

Police at the Belmarsh Prison rejected fellow rabble-rouser Anjem Choudary’s charge that hook-handed Hamza had been beaten up by prison guards.

“To say he was ill-treated is complete rubbish,” … Read : Seething Hamza forced back into jail cell in UK.

Porn stars to take part in Cambridge University Union debate

LONDON – Three porn stars will be the guest speakers in an X-rated debate at the Cambridge University.

The groundbreaking debate that will discuss the question, ‘This house believes that pornography does a good public service,’ will be held on February 17 in the Cambridge Union Society’s historic …. Source article  : Porn stars to take part in Cambridge University Union debate.

Makar Sankranti Breather For Onion?

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The residents of various states of India including the Northern ones are worried whether the price of onion would go down before the festival of Makar Sankranti. In a breather to the residents of the Indian capital the Delhi onion traders agreed to call off the strike after the CM assured … Read more »».

Asians awarded for their work on human development

BANGKOK – Journalists from Bhutan and India and researchers from Indonesia and Vietnam have been recognized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for their work on women’s status in the region and climate change, themes that are central to progress on human development.

This year two journalists and two researchers have been awarded fellowships … Read : Asians awarded for their work on human development.

Samjhauta blast: Aseemanand sent to judicial custody till Jan. 27

PANCHKULA – A Panchkula court on Thursday sent Samjhauta blasts key accused Swami Aseemanand to judicial custody till January 27.

Earlier today, the National Investigating Agency (NIA) produced Aseemanand before the court here at end of the period for which they were granted his custody.

As per reports, the NIA sought further remand of Aseemanand, who … Read more »».

Abused, beaten Indian workers in Malaysia seek refuge with NGO

KUALA LUMPUR – Thirteen Indian nationals working in Malaysia have sought refuge with a non-governmental group, claiming that their employer has been abusing them.

The men, who are working in an Indian restaurant in Subang Jaya, sought help from Alternative Action Team president B. Kalaivanar, the Malaysia Nanban reports.

Worker S. Thirusool, 32, said the men, most …. Read the original article  : Abused, beaten Indian workers in Malaysia seek refuge with NGO.

83 pc of deaths from earthquakes occurred in corrupt nations: Study

LONDON – A new study has shown that 83 percent of all deaths caused by the collapse of buildings during earthquakes occurred in countries considered to be unusually corrupt.

The new assessment of global earthquake fatalities over the past three decades also found that in some relatively wealthy countries where knowledge and sound business practices would … Read more : 83 pc of deaths from earthquakes occurred in corrupt nations: Study.

Delhi traders, consumers hoping for stable onion prices

NEW DELHI – Onion traders and consumers in New Delhi are hoping for normal prices after weeks of being forced to buy vegetables in low quantities because of high prices.

Azadpur Mandi, Delhi’s main wholesale vegetable market, opened today, a day after traders went on strike in protest against income tax raids.

Consumers expressed relief over the … Read more >>.

Illinois Tax Increase Sparks Reactions

SPRINGFIELD (GaeaTimes.com)- Faced with a huge budget deficit, Illinois resorted to a significant hike in Corporate tax and Income tax. This hike comes at a time when the economy of the state is still grappling with the ripple effect of economic recession. Prodded by the democrats ruling state the state legislature gave its nod …. Original article  : Illinois Tax Increase Sparks Reactions.

Youth throng to Srinagar police recruitment rally

SRINAGAR – Thousands of youngsters turned up at a police recruitment rally here on Wednesday to fill 300 police constable vacancies.

The on-the-spot recruitment drive was specially launched for the old Srinagar and was organised in Khanyar area which often witnesses’ violent protests and stone-pelting incidents between youth and policemen.

Kuldeep Khuda, Director General of Jammu and …. Original source  : Youth throng to Srinagar police recruitment rally.

Jharkhand police nabs five Maoists in Ranchi

RANCHI – Jharkhand police have arrested five Maoists, including two women.

Acting on a tip off, police nabbed the Maoists on charges of giving shelter to People’s Liberation Front of India (PLFI) members.

Talking to media, Rezi Dungdung, Inspector General of Police of the Jharkhand Zone, said the arrested Maoists were accused of killing around 10 tribals … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Jharkhand police nabs five Maoists in Ranchi.

Maoist camp busted in Bijapur

BIJAPUR – In a joint operation, the state police and the paramilitary forces busted a camp of Maoists in the Kutru region of Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur District on Wednesday.

B P Rajbhanu, Additional Superintendent of Police, Bijapur said that the Maoists rebel ran away after a fierce gun battle with the security personnel for nearly 30 minutes.

“Police … Read more : Maoist camp busted in Bijapur.

Pongal Transport Woes Surface

CHENNAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The festive occasion of Pongal is only a day ahead and the rush for tickets is quite visible. The occasion is celebrated in South Indian states with much gusto and excitement each year. Sadly, for the people who are scrambling for tickets, most of the trains and buses are full. To …. Source  : Pongal Transport Woes Surface.

Kashmir should decide on armed forces special powers: Pillai

NEW DELHI – The Jammu and Kashmir administration should take a decision on the withdrawal of the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), which gives impunity to armed forces in their anti-terror operations, Home Secretary G.K. Pillai said Friday.

“Why cannot the state government take a decision, take a leap of faith and notify …. Read the original article  : Kashmir should decide on armed forces special powers: Pillai.

Stressed out Delhi, where grazing a car hurts the ego

NEW DELHI – Leave your home 15 minutes early for work. If your car is involved in an accident and the other party gets aggressive, apologise. That’s the best way to beat stress and avoid road rage which claims many victims in Delhi, say experts.

It was dj vu for people in Delhi when Rajiv … Original article on : Stressed out Delhi, where grazing a car hurts the ego.

Saudi Arabia looking for Bin Laden’s son-in-law, 47 others

RIYADH – Saudi Arabia is reportedly hunting for 47 al-Qaeda commanders, including Osama Bin Laden’s son-in-law as it sees them as being a ’serious threat to the public’.

All the alleged terrorists are believed to be living outside Saudi Arabia.

Suspect Muhammad Salim Barikan, who was thought to …. Source article  : Saudi Arabia looking for Bin Laden’s son-in-law, 47 others.

Lalgarh killings: Governor Narayanan to visit Netai village on Jan. 19

KOLKATA – West Bengal Governor M K Narayanan is scheduled to visit Lalgarh’s Netai village on January 19 to assess the impact on residents from the recent spate of violence in the area.

It may be recalled that suspected armed CPI-M cadres killed seven villagers in Lalgarh’s Netai … Read more »»».

Indian-origin cabbie Hiren Mohini’s widow ‘confused’ whether to attend trial in China

BEIJING – The widow of Indian-born Auckland taxi driver Hiren Mohini, who was stabbed to death a year ago, is reportedly facing a dilemma on whether or not to attend her husband’s murder trial in Shanghai.

The man accused of …. Source article  : Indian-origin cabbie Hiren Mohini’s widow ‘confused’ whether to attend trial in China.

Vice President Ansari stresses on “quality agenda” in education

NEW DELHI – Vice President M. Hamid Ansari on Friday said that simple, reliable and scientific methods of sampling and assessment on a nation-wide scale are important for highlighting “quality agenda” in education.

Releasing the “Annual Status of Education Report (ASER)- 2010 … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Vice President Ansari stresses on “quality agenda” in education.

Makar Sankranti: High Prices Mars Festivities

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Indians are gearing up to celebrate Pongal and Makar Sankranti abiding by the rituals and traditions but this year many families have kept the celebrations low profile. The main reason for this is the high price of the vegetables including onion in most of the states in India. The skyrocketing vegetable …. Original article  : Makar Sankranti: High Prices Mars Festivities.

New Zodiac Signs To Profit Tattoo Parlors?

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- Ever since the news of the new changed zodiac has hit the headlines, tattoo parlors owners have re-kindled hopes of huge profits in their business. A well known daily recently shocked many as they reported that zodiac signs with which we identity ourselves is actually wrong. The news source reported the change …. Original source  : New Zodiac Signs To Profit Tattoo Parlors?.

Makar Sankranti: Security Preparations Beefed Up

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The citizens in various states of India are gearing up to celebrate the festive occasion of Makar Sankranti but the security experts are worried that terrorist outfits may use this opportunity to disrupt peace and create trouble in selected states of the country. That explains why the Ministry of Home … Read : Makar Sankranti: Security Preparations Beefed Up.

Ruins of two 4,000-yr-old cities found in central China

NEW DELHI – Archaeologists have discovered the ruins of two ancient cities dating back 4,000 years in central China.

The square-shaped cities, covering an area of 1.68 million sq m, were unearthed in Henan, said Ma Xiaolin, deputy director of the provincial cultural heritage bureau.

One of the cities is believed to be the capital of …. Source article  : Ruins of two 4,000-yr-old cities found in central China.

Pak playing “own little games” in bid to maintain control over Kabul: Editorial

ISLAMABAD – While Pakistan has warned the US against any “new great game” concerning Afghanistan, it itself harbours a desire to maintain control over Kabul by “playing its own little games”, an editorial in a Pakistani newspaper has said.

“During his meeting with the US Vice President [Joe Biden], [Pakistan] Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani expressed … Read : Pak playing “own little games” in bid to maintain control over Kabul: Editorial.

Brit couple die within hours of each other after 70-yrs of wedded bliss

LONDON – A British couple, who was truly devoted to one another, passed away within 11 hours of each other after being married for nearly 70 years.

Bert Swan, 93, passed away from a chest infection in the Great Western Hospital in Swindon, Wiltshire, not knowing that his wife Doreen 91, had died earlier in the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Brit couple die within hours of each other after 70-yrs of wedded bliss.

Govt. considering troop reduction in Kashmir by 25 percent: Home Secretary Pillai

NEW DELHI – Union Home Secretary G.K. Pillai on Friday said the Central Government is contemplating reducing the strength of security forces in Jammu and Kashmir by 25 per cent.

Addressing a symposium on the ‘Way Forward in Kashmir’ organised by the Jamia Millia Islamia University here, Pillai said: “Government of India is hopeful that troops … Read more >>>.

Government may reduce troops by 25 percent in Kashmir

NEW DELHI – The government may reduce by 25 percent the presence of security forces in the populated areas of Jammu and Kashmir in the next 12 months, Home Secretary G.K. Pillai said Friday, announcing a slew of confidence building measures to bring peace in the troubled state.

“We are considering the reduction in the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Government may reduce troops by 25 percent in Kashmir.

Pakistan’s Afghan policy flawed, counterproductive: Ahmed Rashid

LAHORE – Pakistan’s Afghan policy is flawed and has proved to be counterproductive for the interests of the country, veteran journalist and renowned author Ahmed Rashid has said.

Rashid also said it was time to say good-bye to the ‘double game’ that Pakistan had been playing in Afghanistan for a decade.

He made these comments at … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan’s Afghan policy flawed, counterproductive: Ahmed Rashid.

Delhi Metro’s Sarita Vihar-Badarpur line opens

NEW DELHI – The Delhi Metro Railway Corporation (DMRC) on Friday added another five km to its network by throwing open the Sarita Vihar-Badarpur section of the transit system.

The inaugural run was conducted at 8 a.m. in a stretch comprising three elevated stations-Mohan Estate, Tughlakabad and Badarpur.

A regular schedule will be followed from …. Original source  : Delhi Metro’s Sarita Vihar-Badarpur line opens.

Vibrant Gujarat Summit concludes

AHMEDABAD – Dedicating the fifth Vibrant Gujarat Summit (VGS) to youth and women, Chief Minister Narendra Modi has said the state would soon lead india’s economic development and also compete with the developed nations.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the VGS here, Modi said the investor event was not for industries alone. The event will … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Vibrant Gujarat Summit concludes.

Onions from Pakistan arrive in Gujarat’s Mundra Port

MUNDRA – About 300 tons of onions have reportedly arrived from Pakistan at Gujarat’s Mundra Port.

Port officials speaking on condition of anonymity said that the onions from Pakistan had arrived in response to the Indian Government’s request to Pakistan a couple of days ago to resume onion exports.

Commerce Secretary Rahul Khullar had earlier said that …. Source article  : Onions from Pakistan arrive in Gujarat’s Mundra Port.

Two Maoists surrender in Visakhapatnam

VISAKHAPATNAM – Two functionaries of the banned CPI Maoists, including a woman, surrendered before the District Rural Police Superintendent here on Thursday.

District Police Superintendent Vineet Brijlal said the surrendered ultras – V Somaraju alias Sekhar and K Kanthamma alias Santhi alias Syamala had joined the outfit in 2004. Both were involved in several incidents of …. Original article  : Two Maoists surrender in Visakhapatnam.

Achuthanandan orders judicial probe into Kerala stampede

VANDIPAERIYAR – Kerala Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan on Saturday announced a judicial probe into the stampede that claimed around 104 lives and left over 60 others injured near Vandipaeriyar on Friday night.

The Chief Minister, who flew down by a helicopter to Kumali where the bodies of the victims were brought, also announced Rs five … Original article on : Achuthanandan orders judicial probe into Kerala stampede.

Imam associated with Ground Zero mosque bows out as leader of project

NEW YORK – The controversial imam, Feisal Abdul Rauf, who was the public face of an Islamic community center planned near Ground Zero, has bowed out as the religious leader of Park51.

Imam Abdullah Adhami, 44, will be taking on the role of senior adviser.

Adhami will be one of a number of Muslim clerics involved in …. Original source  : Imam associated with Ground Zero mosque bows out as leader of project.

Malaysian assemblyman apologises for using ‘racial slurs’ against Indian restaurateur

GEORGE TOWN – A Malaysian legislator Ng Wei Aik has apologised to the Indian owner of a nasi kandar restaurant over his rough conduct during an enforcement operation at the restaurant 12 days ago.

Komtar assemblyman Ng Wei Aik, however, stopped short of apologising for the racial slur “Tutup kedai, balik India”, he is alleged …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Malaysian assemblyman apologises for using ‘racial slurs’ against Indian restaurateur.

Brit troops allegedly sent to Afghanistan to avoid reduction in size of army

LONDON – Britain’s former Special Representative to Afghanistan, Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles, has said that British troops were sent to Afghanistan simply to avoid a reduction in the size of the Army as operations in Iraq reduced.

Sir Sherard said General Richard Dannatt told him “that if he didn’t use in Afghanistan the battle groups starting to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Brit troops allegedly sent to Afghanistan to avoid reduction in size of army.

Zodiac Signs Changes 2011 Predictions?

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- Rumors are abuzz that the already made predictions for the New Year are going to be altered soon! It is because the manner in which astrologers till now have been deciphering the celestial changes affecting the zodiac signs, is supposedly not the right one. A recent discovery by the Minnesota Planetarium Society … Read more »»».

Vijay Mallya ‘hand-carries century old bottles of whisky to Glasgow’

WELLINGTON – Indian liquor baron Vijay Mallya jetted into Christchurch to hand-carry three bottles of whisky, left from British explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton’s 1907 Antarctic expedition, to Glasgow.

The bottles of Mackinlay whisky were among three crates that remained of the expedition, and [..] Read the original article: here.

Obama to press China to dismantle suppressing free speech, political freedom’

WASHINGTON – Just days after US Defense Secretary Robert Gates’ visit to China over improving the relationship between the two nations, President Barack Obama is reportedly risking destabilizing bi-lateral ties by looking for ways of convincing Chinese … Read : Obama to press China to dismantle suppressing free speech, political freedom’.

Latif Khosa offers cooperation to PML-N through reconciliation process

LAHORE – Newly-appointed Punjab Governor Sardar Latif Khosa has made an offer of cooperation and “cordial relations” to the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), as part of the reconciliation policy adopted by the Pakistan People’s Party.

Khosa said that …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Latif Khosa offers cooperation to PML-N through reconciliation process.

Branson’s stint as stewardess put on hold after he injures his knee

KUALA LUMPUR – Virgin Atlantic founder Sir Richard Branson has gained some time from having to dress as an AirAsia X stewardess after he injured his knee.

Branson, 60, had lost a bet to AirAsia chief executive officer Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes and had been scheduled to serve as … Read : Branson’s stint as stewardess put on hold after he injures his knee.

Brit girl speaks out against Asian sex gang predator who was her lover

LONDON – A British girl has come forward to reveal the ordeal she went through at the hands of her ex-lover, a British-born man of Pakistani origin, who orchestrated the biggest sex-abuse ring ever in UK.

Toni-Marie Redfern thought she had …. Source  : Brit girl speaks out against Asian sex gang predator who was her lover.

Experts decipher Burmese letter to King George II after more than 250yrs

LONDON – Experts have finally deciphered a letter made from pure gold that was sent to King George II from a Burmese king in 1756.

Sent by King Alaungphaya, the letter was an effusive and gushing appeal for camaraderie and trade with Britain.

But although engraved on …. Source  : Experts decipher Burmese letter to King George II after more than 250yrs.

Army chief disfavours using force frequently for civil aid

NEW DELHI – Indian Army chief General V.K. Singh is not in favour of the armed force being frequently deployed to aid the civil society, saying it is like “palming off” the civil government’s responsibility to the army.

He, however, said the army as part of the task assigned by the nation has the role …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Army chief disfavours using force frequently for civil aid.

Separatist shutdown, heavy snowfall hit life in Srinagar

SRINAGAR – Life across summer capital Srinagar was affected by a shutdown called Saturday by senior separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani, although most people preferred to remain indoors due to overnight heavy snowfall and biting chill.

Geelani was placed under house arrest by the authorities Friday in his uptown Hyderpora residence to prevent …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Separatist shutdown, heavy snowfall hit life in Srinagar.

Tamil Nadu celebrates Pongal with sweet dish and thanksgiving

CHENNAI – The aroma of ghee and fried cashew wafted through homes in Tamil Nadu as people cooked the traditional Chakarai Pongal dish – made with rice, jaggery and milk – to celebrate the harvest festival of Pongal Saturday.

The four-day festival thanking the rain, the sun and farm animals is a mini Diwali – … Read : Tamil Nadu celebrates Pongal with sweet dish and thanksgiving.

US foundation urges Indian honour for Rock Garden creator

CHANDIGARH – A US-based foundation has urged the Indian government to honour the creator of Chandigarh’s famous Rock Garden with the country’s second highest civilian honour, the Padma Vibhushan.

The Nek Chand Foundation, based in Madison, Wisconsin, recently wrote to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to seek his personal intervention so that Rock Garden creator Nek …. Original source  : US foundation urges Indian honour for Rock Garden creator.

Arizona gunman posed in G-string with semi-automatic pistol before attack

TUCSON – US officials have revealed that they have photos of the suspected Arizona shooter posing with a Glock semi-automatic pistol while wearing a red G-string a night before the rampage

Six people were killed and 13 were injured, including Democratic Representative Gabrielle Giffords, when 22-year-old Jared L. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Arizona gunman posed in G-string with semi-automatic pistol before attack.

Tunisian President Ben Ali’s departure over massive protests- a “lesson” for Arab leaders

BEIRUT – Tunisian President Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali’s act of fleeing the country amidst massive protests is seen by political observers, including media persons, as a historic day in Arab politics and triumph of the common people who have shown that such an extensive outrage can …. Read the original article  : Tunisian President Ben Ali’s departure over massive protests- a “lesson” for Arab leaders.

Robert Louis Stevenson’s ‘Catriona’ based on real woman ‘he loved’

LONDON – A new research has concluded that Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel ‘Catriona’ was based on a real woman the author fell in love with.

The work continues the story of Stevenson’s Kidnapped hero David Balfour, who falls for and eventually marries the eponymous heroine.

Author Jeremy Hodges …. Source  : Robert Louis Stevenson’s ‘Catriona’ based on real woman ‘he loved’.

Princess Di’s niece charged with assaulting man on crutches in burger bar

LONDON – Princess Diana’s niece Lady Amelia Spencer, 18, has been charged with assaulting a man on crutches during a row in a burger queue, it has emerged.

Spencer apparently launched a volley of abuses followed by assault in the small … Read more >>.

Nude Indian artist a hit at art exhibition in Singapore

KUALA LUMPUR – A male Indian artist who poses in the nude is a hit at an art exhibition in Singapore.

Venkanna, from Hyderabad in India, was featured as part of a “performance” at the Art Stage Singapore exhibition being held at Marina Bay Sands until Sunday, reports the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nude Indian artist a hit at art exhibition in Singapore.

P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Marathon On Sunday

PHOENIX (GaeaTimes.com)- On Sunday, the participants of P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Marathon would run through the streets of Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe, to win the prize money along with the title. The participants would have to run for nearly 26.2-mile and then reach the finish line to win the marathon. The organizers …. Source article  : P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona Marathon On Sunday.

Adarsh Society: Tenor of order malafide, says lawyer Maneshinde

NEW DELHI – Reacting to the Ministry of Environment’s decision to demolish the 31-storey Adarsh Housing Society in Mumbai, the society’s counsel, Satish Maneshinde on Sunday said that the tenor of the order is completely malafide.

“The tenor of the order is completely malafide… unfair hearing… the minister was bent upon demolishing Adarsh since the beginning… … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Adarsh Society: Tenor of order malafide, says lawyer Maneshinde.

CPJ urges Zardari to stop growing attacks on Pakistani journalists

NEW YORK – The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called on Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari to address increasing attacks on journalists in his country.

“Pakistan’s foundering security situation affects everyone in his country, but journalists’ deaths are particularly egregious,” The Nation quoted Bob Dietz, CPJ Asia Programme Coordinator, as saying in a statement.

“Un-investigated, un-prosecuted … Read : CPJ urges Zardari to stop growing attacks on Pakistani journalists.

Salman Taseer’s assassin unlikely to be prosecuted, says Qadri’s brother

RAWALPINDI – The brother of late Punjab Governor Salman Taseer’s assassin, Mumtaz Qadri, has expressed confidence that the bodyguard will never be prosecuted.

Taseer’s bodyguard Qadri had shot him dead because of his vocal opposition to the blasphemy law that was recently used to sentence a Pakistani-Christian woman, Asia Bibi, to death.

During investigations, he revealed …. Source  : Salman Taseer’s assassin unlikely to be prosecuted, says Qadri’s brother.

Clash of opinion between McCain-Palin over Obama’s role as US President

TUNIS – Two important Republican leaders appear to have different views on US President Barack Obama ahead of the 2012 presidential polls, with reports saying that his 2008 opponent John McCain has recently called the President a “patriot” contrasting former Alska Governor Sarah Palin’s earlier claim that Obama is ‘weakening America’.

According to ABC News, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Clash of opinion between McCain-Palin over Obama’s role as US President.

Gujjars for national model to rehabilitate Kashmir tribes

JAMMU – Demanding adaptation of a national model to develop ‘Forest Villages for Tribal and Nomadic groups’ of Jammu and Kashmir on the prototype of other states of India, the Scheduled Tribe Gujjars-Bakerwals today called for recognition of their primitive culture by extending the National Conservation Act,1980 to Jammu and … Original article on : Gujjars for national model to rehabilitate Kashmir tribes.

Woman who trained Obama family dog Bo dies aged 52

WASHINGTON – The woman who trained US President Barack Obama’s pooch Bo has passed away at a Virginia hospital.

Dawn Sylvia-Stasiewicz died Wednesday of respiratory failure, her ex-husband Paul Stasiewicz said Saturday.

The 52-year-old started training Bo, the Portuguese water dog, at the suggestion of Vicki Kennedy, the wife of the late Sen. Ted Kennedy of Massachusetts.

The …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Tunisia reformation described a ‘first Wikileaks revolution’

TUNIS – The drastic changes brought about in Tunisia that ultimately forced President Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali’s to flee the country, has been described as the ‘first Wikileaks revolution’ because the whistleblower website played a major role in stirring up public anger against corruption of their leader.

According to The Scotsman, the revolution is virtually unprecedented …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Tunisia reformation described a ‘first Wikileaks revolution’.

Adarsh society should be demolished: Jairam Ramesh

NEW DELHI – Accusing the controversial Adarsh society for violating the spirit of Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) laws, Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh on Sunday said that the society ’should be demolished in entirety’.

“Adarsh society should be demolished because it lacked green clearance, Ramesh said in a report submitted today.

The Environment Ministry had earlier served a … Read more : Adarsh society should be demolished: Jairam Ramesh.

Mumbai Marathon Held Today

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The most awaited street event of the business capital of India, Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon took place today. It was won by Girma Assefa, an Ethiopian who completed the 42.1-km run in 2:09:54. He was followed by Botor Segaye Wolde with a timing of 2:09:57. Amongst the women, Koren Yal bagged …. Source article  : Mumbai Marathon Held Today.

IAF’s first C-130J aiflifter to arrive this week

NEW DELHI – The Indian Air Force’s new acquisition from the US for special forces operations, the C-130J Super Hercules airlifter, will reach its home base at Hindon on the outskirts of the national capital this week, ahead of its formal induction in February, an officer said.

He told IANS that the first C-130J would … Original article on : IAF’s first C-130J aiflifter to arrive this week.

‘Unpacking the Nano’ exhibition preview for media on Jan. 19

WASHINGTON – The media has been issued a preview invitation to the “Unpacking the Nano” exhibition at the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art.

At the exhibit, to be held January 19, reporters and photographers will see two Nano automobiles from Tata Motors, India.

One is completely assembled and the other has been taken apart, suspended in …. Read the original article  : ‘Unpacking the Nano’ exhibition preview for media on Jan. 19.

US Congress for revoking visas of supporters of Taseer assassin

WASHINGTON – The United States Congress has requested the US government to revoke the visa of anyone supporting Mumtaz Qadri, the assassin of late Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer.

In its letter addressed to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, the Congress termed Taseer’s assassination an “unspeakable tragedy” and a “heinous crime”, stating that he was a strong …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US Congress for revoking visas of supporters of Taseer assassin.

Wills, Kate to ask for charity donations instead of wedding gifts

LONDON – Prince William and Kate Middleton will ask their wedding guests to make donations to their favourite charities rather than giving them traditional wedding presents, such as toasters or tea sets.

The couple, who will marry on April 29 at Westminster Abbey in London, have decided to forego matching sets of chinaware and napkins, and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Wills, Kate to ask for charity donations instead of wedding gifts.

Growing hatred against Tunisian President Ben Ali portrayed in Wikileaks

Tucson (Arizona, US), – US diplomatic cables released by the whistleblower website ‘Wikileaks’ have portrayed a deepening ambivalence toward the rule of Tunisian President Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali, focussing not only on the corruptions of the country’s first family, but also praising Ben Ali’s cooperation against terrorism and the stability he long imposed.

In the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Growing hatred against Tunisian President Ben Ali portrayed in Wikileaks.

Maoists attack road construction workers in Jharkhand

LOHARDAGGA – Throwing a spanner in the works for developmental activities in the region, Maoist ultras attacked road construction workers in Jharkhand’s Lohardagga District on Saturday.

Ram Gulab Sharma, Sub-Divisional Police Officer, said that the Maoists were trying to extort money from the factory and in that process burnt the bulldozer kept outside.

“Some notorious group came …. Source  : Maoists attack road construction workers in Jharkhand.

Travel and Tourism fair begins in Bangalore

BANGALORE – The three-day long XX Travel and Tourism Fair began here on Saturday.

This year’s edition of the fair has witnessed over 250 participants from all over India, including representatives from 17 states and also three foreign countries such as Hong Kong and Nepal.

Sanjiv Aggarwal, Chief Executive Officer of Travel and Tourism Fair has said …. Source article  : Travel and Tourism fair begins in Bangalore.

Ethiopian Assefa wins Mumbai full marathon

MUMBAI – Ethiopia’s Girima Assefa won the 42-km full run at the Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon 2011.

Assefa reached the finish in two hours, nine minutes and 54 seconds beating the previous record of 2:11:54s set by Kenya’s Kenneth Mungara two years ago.

He was followed by compatriot Botor Segaye Wolde, who completed the run … Read : Ethiopian Assefa wins Mumbai full marathon.

British-Pak Christians, Sikh council honour slain Pak Punjab Governor

LONDON – The British-Pakistani Christian Association presented the Pakistan High Commission with a wreath in memory of slain Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer, as ‘a show of representation of the love the community has for Pakistan and the late Governor’.

“We believe that Taseer has become a strong emblem of the campaign towards a fairer Pakistan,” the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : British-Pak Christians, Sikh council honour slain Pak Punjab Governor.

‘Tunisian protests serve as red flag for Arab autocracies’

Tucson (Arizona, US), – The recent Tunisian protests that forced President Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali’s to flee the country serve as a red flag for other Arab autocracies like Egypt, sending out a strong message that maintaining stability through suppression would not be tolerated, analysts say.

After Tunisia President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali fled to … Read more : ‘Tunisian protests serve as red flag for Arab autocracies’.

P. F. Chang’s Rock ‘N’ Roll Arizona Marathon: Josh Cox And Sally Meyerhoff Win

PHOENIX (GaeaTimes.com)- On Sunday, nearly 30,000 participants walked or ran the streets of Arizona to win the coveted trophy and prize of P. F. Chang’s Rock ‘N’ Roll Arizona Marathon. The streets of the city were buzzing with thousands of people who came on the streets to witness such a great event. Josh Cox … Read this article on Gaea Times at : P. F. Chang’s Rock ‘N’ Roll Arizona Marathon: Josh Cox And Sally Meyerhoff Win.

Mumbai Marathon 2011 Embraced By Stars

BEVERLY HILLS (GaeaTimes.com)- Mumbai is not only the business capital but also the entertainment capital of India. Every high profile event in the city, cannot be executed without the presence of the stars, and so was the Mumbai Marathon 2011. Amongst the Bollywood celebrities who participated in the event were the hunky John Abraham, … Read more : Mumbai Marathon 2011 Embraced By Stars.

Mumbai Marathon 2011 Concluded With Success

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Mumbai Marathon 2011 kicked off yesterday. Although none of the winners hailed from India, most of the participants had a good time in running the race. However, it was not just about running and making it till the end. It was more about, fun, enjoyment, charity, and addressing social issues and …. Source  : Mumbai Marathon 2011 Concluded With Success.

Highest bid for Ahmadinejad’s car is $2mn: Minister

NEW DELHI – President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad can expect two million US dollars for his 1977 Peugeot, said Iran’s Minister of Welfare and Social Security Sadeq Mahsouli, according to a foreign news agency.

“We have different suggestions from many countries and the last received bid was two million dollars,” Mahsouli said.

The report mentioned that the previous bid … Original source on Gaea Times at : Highest bid for Ahmadinejad’s car is $2mn: Minister.

NY couple sues neighbour for $500K over ’second-hand smoke’

NEW YORK – A Manhattan couple has sued their cigar-smoking neighbour for 500,000 dollars, claiming that his second-hand smoke is making their lives hell.

Russell and Amanda Poses, who filed a lawsuit against Harry Dale in a Manhattan Supreme Court, said the odours and smoke coming from Dale’s residence are so strong that they were … Read more >>.

India’s first comic convention to be held in February

LONDON – India is set to hold its very own comic convention this February.

The convention, to be held in New Delhi, will seek to bring comics fans, creators and publishers together.

“Comics is big business in India right now and we felt this was the perfect moment to host our own Comic Con,” the Telegraph quoted … Original source on Gaea Times at : India’s first comic convention to be held in February.

Internet campaign alleges George VI ‘had Nazi sympathies’

LONDON – An online campaign has said that George VI, the father of the Queen, had Nazi sympathies.

According to the Hollywood email, which is based on a recent entry on a blog on the website of New York magazine, he actively “stymied” efforts by Jews fleeing Nazi Germany to settle in British-controlled Palestine.

The accusations follow …. Original source  : Internet campaign alleges George VI ‘had Nazi sympathies’.

Salman Bashir likely to replace Malik as Pak HC to India

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan is likely to appoint Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir as its next High Commissioner to India after incumbent envoy Shahid Malik’s term ends in June.

Pakistan Foreign Office sources said the government considered the possibilities of posting Bashir as Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, the country’s Ambassador to the US or the High … Original article on : Salman Bashir likely to replace Malik as Pak HC to India.

Wife ‘beaten’ by Indian diplomat immune from prosecution hides in fear

LONDON – The wife of a high-ranking Indian diplomat who was allegedly attacked by her husband at their official London residence a fortnight before Christmas, has gone into hiding with their 5-year-old son in fear of her life.

Paromita Verma has also applied for discretionary leave to remain in Britain on the grounds that there is …. Source  : Wife ‘beaten’ by Indian diplomat immune from prosecution hides in fear.

Tunisian military takes action against Ex-President’s aides

TUNIS – The Tunisian military has detained some of the aides of ousted President Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali, just 24 hours after he fled the country.

Military has detained Ben Ali’s former security chief, Ali Seriati, and charged him with plotting against the government and inciting acts of violence.

Combat operations between the military and … Read more >>.

China’s rising wealth and influence concerns Washington ahead of Hu visit

BEIJING – As Chinese President Hu Jintao prepares to visit Washington this week in an attempt to defuse tensions with the United States, Obama administration officials are grappling with what they describe as a more complex reality-China being far wealthier and more influential than the United States.

American officials have spent years urging President Hu to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : China’s rising wealth and influence concerns Washington ahead of Hu visit.

Musharraf blames Nawaz Sharif for bloodbath in Karachi

LONDON – Former president Pervez Musharraf has blamed Pakistan Muslim League-N leader Nawaz Sharif for the current violent situation in Karachi, saying that he had ignored the military’s advice and tried to corner the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (Altaf faction).

Speaking at the launch of the APML’s London chapter, Musharraf said he had advised Nawaz against his … Read more >>.

Buddhist fair in Visakhapatnam

VISAKHAPATNAM – Buddhist devotees and representatives of various trusts, societies and cultural organisations participated in a grand ‘Buddhist Fair’ in Visakhapatnam.

Maturi Srinivas, organising member of the fair, said that this is the place where Buddhist monks lived and the fair is organised to celebrate Makar Sankranti.

“It is an auspicious Buddhist place because this is … Read more >>>.

Inflation row heats up across India

AGRA/AMRITSAR – Reeling under the spiraling prices of essential commodities, locals and activists from regional factions staged agitations in several parts of the country to protest the perceived inability of the central government in tackling inflation.

The simmering row over inflation boiled over in Agra as activists of regional Samajwadi Chhatra Sabha (SCS) vented their ire …. Original article  : Inflation row heats up across India.

Indian kindergartener, 4, raped by school bus driver, conductors in Dubai

DUBAI – A school bus driver and two conductors in Dubai have been arrested after they were accused of having raped a four-year-old girl of Indian origin while dropping her home.

The kindergarten pupil, who studied at Modern High School, had allegedly been raped on November 11, but the parents only notified police on January 9 …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Indian kindergartener, 4, raped by school bus driver, conductors in Dubai.

17-yr-old becomes youngest to win Miss America in 90 yrs

WASHINGTON – A 17-year-old from Nebraska has become the youngest ever to be crowned Miss America in 90 years.

Teresa Scanlan won a 50,000 dollar scholarship and a yearlong run with the crown at the competition at the Planet Hollywood casino-resort in Las Vegas, giving the Cornhusker State its first-ever win at the pageant, reports Fox [..] Read the original article: here.

Brit-author Dalrymple in controversy over “Raj”, “racist” claims

LONDON – Award-winning historian William Dalrymple has found himself in the middle of a racist controversy over claims that British authors writing about India are inheritors of “a Raj that still lingers”.

According to The Independent, an article in an Indian magazine, Open’ accused the Indian elite of being attached to British literary culture and to …. Original source  : Brit-author Dalrymple in controversy over “Raj”, “racist” claims.

‘I can never even imagine that Pak Army will be against me’: Musharraf

LONDON – Former president Pervez Musharraf, who launched his own political party last year in a bid to return to Pakistan politics, has said he can “never even imagine” that the army will stand up against him.

When asked if he expected support from the army, All Pakistan Muslim League (APML) head said the military was … Original source on Gaea Times at : ‘I can never even imagine that Pak Army will be against me’: Musharraf.

Combined computer attacks could have ‘catastrophic’ global effects

LONDON – A new study has found that coordinated computer attacks could have ‘catastrophic’ global effects.

The report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) said that multiple cyber attacks could “become a full-scale global shock” on a par with a pandemic and the collapse of the world financial system.

“What should concern policy-makers are …. Original source  : Combined computer attacks could have ‘catastrophic’ global effects.

Has Kate chosen Princess Di’s favorite designer for her wedding dress?

NEW YORK – Prince William’s fiancee Kate Middleton is reportedly discussing wedding dresses with one of Princess Diana’s favorite London designer.

British tab News of the World photographed Middleton’s mother and sister walking into the shop of London frock-meister Bruce Oldfield.

Middleton’s relatives spent an hour and a half with Oldfield, triggering rumours that he would be … Read more >>.

Brit mum left horrified as singing toy puppy starts swearing

LONDON – A woman in Britain, who bought a singing toy puppy for her baby daughter, revealed that she was left horrified when it started swearing.

Leigh McPherson, 20, of Banbury, Oxon, said the cuddly My Pal Violet toy started swearing when she pressed its paw to trigger its first song.

“If you’re happy and you know … Original article on : Brit mum left horrified as singing toy puppy starts swearing.

Rahul Gandhi arrives in Lucknow with huge security

LUCKNOW – Following the controversy that there was a security breach during Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi’s recent visit to Uttar Pradesh, close to a hundred policemen and a vehicle armed against riots escorted him when he arrived here today on a two-day visit.

The Centre has sought a report from the Uttar Pradesh Government … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rahul Gandhi arrives in Lucknow with huge security.

Pakistan’s terrorist sanctuaries “rich hunting ground” for US: NYT

WASHINGTON – Pakistan’s refusal to launch a military operation in North Waziristan to hit the terrorist sanctuaries on its northwest border may have created a magnet there for hundreds of Islamic fighters, which has a positive side for the United States.

A growing number of senior US intelligence and counterinsurgency officials say that by bunching up …. Read the original article  : here.

‘Octomom’ whips diaper-clad man in fetish video offered for sale

MELBOURNE – Nadya Suleman a.k.a. ‘Octomom’ is featured in a fetish video that is being offered for sale, whipping a man wearing a diaper.

According to TMZ.com, in the video Suleman, 35, is seen wearing a black corset and black leggings, while the man is featured wearing a bonnet on his head along with the diaper.

The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Octomom’ whips diaper-clad man in fetish video offered for sale.

Most Americans disapprove of Palin’s response to Arizona shootings: Poll

WASHINGTON – Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin’s response to the Arizona shootings has been slammed by Americans, including most of her supporters, with a latest poll saying that 46 percent of respondents disapproved of her way of handling the outcry.

Only 30 percent of respondents approved of her way of handling the outcry, the ABC News-Washington …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Most Americans disapprove of Palin’s response to Arizona shootings: Poll.

Time to call off the separatist bogey (Analysis)

NEW DELHI – The cold wave in Kashmir, with the temperature going south, icy winds and snowfall does not leave much scope for physical activity. Nevertheless, politics have not taken a backstage and the spate of agitations that were witnessed in the months gone by have been replaced by a spate of political statements made … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Time to call off the separatist bogey (Analysis).

Cheney believes Obama will only serve one term as president

VIRGINIA – Former US Vice President Dick Cheney has reiterated his belief that President Obama will serve just one term.

“I think his overall approach to expanding the size of government, expanding the deficit, and giving more and more authority and power to the government over the private sector is a lack of-sort of a feel … Original source on Gaea Times at : Cheney believes Obama will only serve one term as president.

Heavy Snowfall Arrests Japan

TOKYO, JAPAN (GaeaTimes.com)- The harsh winter is not only affecting the USA and European countries, the Asian countries are also bearing its brunt. Japan is reeling under heavy snowfall which has thrown public life out of gear for the last few days. Since Sunday some parts of Japan have got 8 feet of snow. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Heavy Snowfall Arrests Japan.

Choppers, anti-mine vehicles to aid BSF troopers

AGARTALA – To further strengthen vigil along the border with Bangladesh, India’s border troopers are to use Dhruv light helicopters, mine protected vehicles (MPV) and other modern gadgets and devices, a top Border Security Force (BSF) officer said here Tuesday.

“Considering the vulnerability and other security perceptions, we have to strengthen the surveillance along the … Read more >>.

Now, families of Air India bomb blast victims ask for memorial in India

TORONTO – Families of crew members who died in the 1985 mid-air bomb explosion aboard an Air India flight have asked for the wreckage to be sent back to India for a memorial to commemorate the tragedy.

“As you are aware that Canada and Ireland have built four memorials and one memorial respectively, but we have … Original article on : Now, families of Air India bomb blast victims ask for memorial in India.

Blasphemy accused Pak-Christian woman may be shifted to women-only jail for safety

LAHORE – Aasia Bibi, the Pakistani-Christian woman sentenced to death on blasphemy charges, may be shifted to an all-women prison due to security concerns.

The Punjab government is likely to shift Aasia from Sheikhupura district jail to an all-women jail in Multan, The Express Tribune reports.

The transfer will take place at night under heavy security within …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Blasphemy accused Pak-Christian woman may be shifted to women-only jail for safety.

China’s uranium shortage likely to end by 2021

BEIJING – The state-owned China National Nuclear Corporation has predicted that uranium shortage for nuclear reprocessing technology may end by 2021.

It will take at least a decade for China to start the large-scale industrial application of spent fuel reprocessing technology, which may be the solution to the supply shortage, the CNNC said on Monday.

The …. Source  : China’s uranium shortage likely to end by 2021.

Awlaki’s latest fatwa calls for destruction of buildings

NEW YORK – The latest edition of al Qaeda’s English-language web magazine “Inspire” offers readers a new fatwa from American-born jihadi leader Anwar al-Awlaki on how to destroy buildings using gas lines, and a primer on the AK-47 rifle.

A young American citizen from North Carolina named Samir Khan apparently began editing and publishing the on-line …. Original article  : Awlaki’s latest fatwa calls for destruction of buildings.

Obama may be more assertive during meeting with Hu

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama is likely to be more assertive with his Chinese counterpart Hu Jintao, when the latter visits Washington later this week, American officials have said.

The decision follows Obama being criticised for his benevolence during his 2009 visit to China, and for allowing Beijing to gain the upper hand against … Read : Obama may be more assertive during meeting with Hu.

China to test endurance of its astronauts in space

BEIJING – China plans to test the endurance of its astronauts in space through long-term missions.

According to the China Daily, the aim is to establish the astronauts’ operational and decision-making abilities in space, along with any psychological and physical changes they undergo while living in cramped compartments in weightless conditions.

The research findings will play a … Read : China to test endurance of its astronauts in space.

Iran hanged 47 people in past three weeks: HR groups

TEHRAN – Iran has hanged nearly 50 people during the past three weeks, human rights groups have claimed.

The Guardian quotes the International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran (ICHRI) as saying that 47 prisoners, an average of about one person every eight hours, has been executed since the beginning of 2011.

This revelation came …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Iran hanged 47 people in past three weeks: HR groups.

American Qaeda leader Al Awlaki urging followers to steal funds, property from West

LONDON – Followers of Anwar Al-Awlaki, a rising leader of the Yemeni branch of Al Qaeda, are being told to steal, embezzle and seize property, especially from Americans, in order to finance their jihad.

While Muslim teaching generally forbids theft, the new edition of Inspire magazine is now telling followers that such crimes are justifiable, especially … Read more »».

‘Granite stitching’ saves 1,250-yr-old Indian temple from collapse

LONDON – A 1,250-year-old temple in the southern part of India, which was in total ruins with dense vegetation growing over its dome, has been stitched back together.

The Kailasanathar Temple in Uthiramerur, Tamil Nadu, built during the Pallava King Dantivarman regime, was saved from collapse using ‘granite stitching’.

Sathyamurthy of the REACH Foundation, an archaeologist and …. Source  : ‘Granite stitching’ saves 1,250-yr-old Indian temple from collapse.

Michelle Obama celebrates her birthday

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama celebrated her birthday with a quiet dinner on Monday.

The two went to Wolfgang Puck’s The Source restaurant, located in the same building as the Newseum, according to a pool report.

“POTUS and FLOTUS were seen briefly on their way in to the restaurant, and POTUS … Read more : Michelle Obama celebrates her birthday.

Berlusconi’s Milan housing complex branded a ‘whore house’

LONDON – Italian PM Silvio Berlusconi’s Milan housing complex has been branded a ‘whore house’, say prosecution documents sent to parliament.

The politician is already under investigation on suspicion of paying for sex with one of his guests, Karima el-Mahroug, a Moroccan belly dancer known as Ruby Rubacuori, when she was 17 – an offence under …. Read the original article  : Berlusconi’s Milan housing complex branded a ‘whore house’.

Zorilla Makes Viewers Curious

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- A rarely seen small animal made its appearance in the latest episode of Late Night with David Letterman show and its name made the viewers curious. The word Zorilla may give the impression that it is a mix of zebra and gorilla but in reality it is not so. The …. Original article  : Zorilla Makes Viewers Curious.

Pakistan considering US guards for Zardari

ISLAMABAD – Special security guards from the US are now being considered for Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari following the assassination of Punjab Governor Salman Taseer by one of his own security men, a media report said.

The Express Tribune quoted sources as saying that though Zardari’s security has always been cause of concern …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan considering US guards for Zardari.

Hu faces ‘more assertive’ America on his visit over trade-currency-HR violation concerns

WASHINGTON – Chinese President Hu Jintao might have arrived Washington with a view to improve bilateral ties between the two nations ahead of his retirement in 2012, but is likely to face a ‘more assertive’ America in the wake of serious concerns relating to currency, the trade imbalance, human rights and China’s military stance, political … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Hu faces ‘more assertive’ America on his visit over trade-currency-HR violation concerns.

Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee meets Chidambaram, discusses Naxal activities

NEW DELHI – West Bengal Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee met Union Minister P Chidambaram here today after the two leaders exchanged a series of letters on the law and order situation in the state.

Bhattacharjee is likely to meet Prime Minister Manmohan Singh later in the day.

Earlier, Chidambaram had sent a letter to Bhattacharjee asking him …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee meets Chidambaram, discusses Naxal activities.

India to install ‘Asia’s first commercial-scale tidal power station’ in Gujarat

NEW DELHI – India is planning to install Asia’s first commercial-scale tidal power station off the coast of Gujarat.

Atlantis Resources, a UK engineering firm specializing in underwater turbines, would install a 50MW tidal farm in the Gulf of Kutch, and begin the construction works early in 2012, the BBC reports.

The Indian project would …. Original article  : India to install ‘Asia’s first commercial-scale tidal power station’ in Gujarat.

US releases 2009 Obama gift list

LONDON – Leaders from around the world gave US President Barack Obama and his family hundreds of thousands of dollars in gifts in the year 2009.

Saudi King Abdullah was one of the top givers with nearly 190,000 dollars in gifts to the Obamas, reports the BBC.

Ex-UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown gave Obama a pen and … Original source on Gaea Times at : US releases 2009 Obama gift list.

Krishna visit: India asks Australia for uranium to end energy shortages

MELBOURNE – Visiting External Affairs Minister S.M.Krishna met Australia’s Minister for Resources, Energy and Tourism, Martin Ferguson, on Wednesday, and sought Canberra’s help for providing uranium to resolve India’s energy demands.

Krishna is in Melbourne to attend the third round of the India-Australia Framework Dialogue with his Australian counterpart Kevin Rudd on Thursday.

His visit is aimed …. Source  : Krishna visit: India asks Australia for uranium to end energy shortages.

Chhattisgarh seeks waiver on anti-Maoist forces expenditure

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh, reeling under Maoist militancy for about three decades, has sought about Rs.800 crore waiver after the central government asked it to meet the expenditure incurred on para-military troopers deployed in the state, sources said Wednesday.

“The expenditure incurred by the central government on central para-military forces (CPMF) deployed in the state to … Read : Chhattisgarh seeks waiver on anti-Maoist forces expenditure.

Paul Cezanne Birthday Celebrated By Google

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- Google the Internet search giant is known for making changes to its well known logo on its home page from time to time. The changed logo is usually called Doodle and Google comes up with new and unique doodles on certain occasions like anniversary or birthdays of noted personalities. At times [..] Read the original article: here.

Florida community website targeted by Iranian hackers

FLORIDA – Pro-Iranian hackers have targeted the website of a beach community in Florida.

The website for Hilllsboro Beach displayed a picture of Iran, the flag of the country, and the mysterious words “MCSM Iran Hacking”.

Town officials were unclear whether the hacks were the work of a local prankster or if the Iranian government …. Original source  : Florida community website targeted by Iranian hackers.

Omar Abdullah meets Chidambaram ahead of BJP’s ekta yatra

NEW DELHI – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah met Home Minister P. Chidambaram today ahead of the BJP’s planned ‘ekta yatra in the state.

Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) national president Anurag Thakur is leading the Rashtriya Ekta Yatra – flagged off on January 12 at Kolkata and scheduled to reach Srinagar on January …. Source article  : Omar Abdullah meets Chidambaram ahead of BJP’s ekta yatra.

Rapist school bus driver in Dubai lured Indian girl, 4, with chocolate

DUBAI – The Indian mother of a four-year-old girl, who was sexually assaulted in a school bus in Dubai, has alleged that the driver lured her daughter to the back seat of the bus by offering her chocolate.

According to the public prosecution, the driver and two conductors, who are employees of Modern High School, abused …. Source  : Rapist school bus driver in Dubai lured Indian girl, 4, with chocolate.

NY court begins trial of Pak-American TV executive accused of beheading wife

NEW YORK – A New York court has started hearing the case of a Pakistani-origin television executive charged with beheading his wife after she filed for diverse.

Opening statements in the second-degree murder trial of Muzzammil Hassan began yesterday in Erie County Court in Buffalo, New York.

The Pakistani-born couple had reportedly set up a pro-Muslim … Read more : NY court begins trial of Pak-American TV executive accused of beheading wife.

Cheney steers clear of Palin’s US President dreams

WASHINGTON – Former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney has steered clear of questions on former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin’s prospects in the 2012 Presidential run.

When asked whether he thought Palin was qualified, Cheney said that he is “not going to get into the business … of saying this one is, this one isn’t”.

The former Vice …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Average Brit couple argues 312 times a year

LONDON – A new survey has revealed that the average Brit couple argues nearly every day – 312 times a year – mostly over the cleanliness of the house.

Minor irritations such as leaving wet towels on the bed, flicking between TV channels and hoarding bits and bobs cause most of the bust-ups.

Those little annoying habits …. Read the original article  : Average Brit couple argues 312 times a year.

US focussing on “possible discriminatory applications” of Pak’s blasphemy law: Posner

WASHINGTON – In the wake of the controversy surrounding Pakistan’s blasphemy law, US Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy and Human Rights Michael H. Posner has said the United States believes that people should be free to practice their religion, and is focussed on “possible discriminatory applications of the law”.

“We are reluctant to prescribe changes … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US focussing on “possible discriminatory applications” of Pak’s blasphemy law: Posner.

Kirpan carrying Sikhs barred from entering Quebec legislature

QUEBEC – Four Sikhs invited to appear before a Quebec legislative committee to debate a bill that deals with the reasonable accommodation of religious minorities, were barred from entering the National Assembly building after metal detectors discovered that they were carrying kirpans.

Security agents ruled that the kirpans, or ceremonial daggers, they carried were a potential …. Source  : Kirpan carrying Sikhs barred from entering Quebec legislature.

Haiti charges ex-dictator Jean-Claude Duvalier with corruption

Port-au-PRINCE – Authorities in Haiti have charged former dictator Jean-Claude Duvalier with corruption, theft and misappropriation of funds, two days after he made an unexpected return to his homeland after 25 years in exile in France.

However, a judge must still decide whether the indictment can go forward.

The charges come after Duvalier spent over four hours … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Haiti charges ex-dictator Jean-Claude Duvalier with corruption.

Telangana state row heats up in Hyderabad

HYDERABAD – Reiterating its demand for the formation and recognition of a separate Telangana state, the Telangana Rashtriya Samithi (TRS) called for a series of hunger strikes and protests in the coming weeks to strengthen the movement.

Intensifying the simmering stir, senior TRS leaders met here to discuss the strategy and plans for the strikes.

Hundreds of …. Read the original article  : here.

Britain moves order to ban ‘Pakistani Taliban’ in UK

LONDON – Britain has moved an order to ban the Pakistani Taliban as a terrorist group, making it illegal to raise funds in the United Kingdom.

“I have laid an order which will proscribe Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan,” the Daily Mail quoted Home Secretary Theresa May, as saying.

“Proscription is a tough but necessary power to tackle terrorism … Read : Britain moves order to ban ‘Pakistani Taliban’ in UK.

El Camino Real High School Students Return Home

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- Los Angeles police ended their search on Wednesday night for the gunman who shot a school officer Jeff Stenroos in Woodland Hills, near El Camino Real High School. The school authorities tried to reassure the parents, students as well as the residents that the area would be safe. Los Angeles school …. Original article  : El Camino Real High School Students Return Home.

Republic Day Of India: Security Beefed Up

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- With less than a week to go before India celebrates Republic Day this year, the security arrangements across the country especially in the national capital has been beefed up to avoid any kind of untoward incident during the January 26 celebrations. Over the last one week, forces in New Delhi …. Source article  : Republic Day Of India: Security Beefed Up.

Loughner indicted in Arizona shooting of US congresswoman Giffords

Tucson (Arizona, US), – A federal grand jury has indicted Jared Lee Loughner for attempting to assassinate US Democratic Representative Gabrielle Giffords.

Giffords, and 18 others were shot on January 8 when 22-year-old Loughner opened fire at a “Congress on Your Corner” event in Arizona where she was meeting with her constituents.

Loughner was also charged with … Read more »»».

Shot congresswoman Giffords to move to Texas rehabilitation clinic

Tucson (Arizona, US), – US Democratic Representative Gabrielle Giffords will begin in-patient rehabilitation at a facility in Texas on Friday, two weeks after surviving an assassination attempt.

According to the BBC, Giffords will be moved to Memorial Hermann Rehabilitation Hospital in Houston.

Giffords’ husband Mark Kelly, a space shuttle astronaut, said that doctors at … Read more »»».

‘A lot still needs to be done in China on human rights,’ admits Jintao

WASHINGTON – Chinese President Hu Jintao has acknowledged that “a lot still needs to be done” in his country over human rights.

Jintao said this while addressing a joint press conference with U.S. President Barack Obama in Washington.

He also defended China’s commitment to protecting and promoting human rights.

“China is a developing country with a …. Original article  : ‘A lot still needs to be done in China on human rights,’ admits Jintao.

ISI sheltering Afghan Taliban leadership in Karachi under secret programme: Report

ISLAMABAD – Most of the Afghan Taliban frontier leadership had reportedly been sheltered in Karachi under a Pakistani security establishment’s secret programme, the ‘New Karachi Project’, according to a newspaper report.

The whole notion that most of the Taliban leadership was stationed in Quetta was a “proxy… In reality its the Karachi Shura,” the Daily Times …. Original article  : ISI sheltering Afghan Taliban leadership in Karachi under secret programme: Report.

Srinagar Corps Commander Hasnian says terror infrastructure active across border

SRINAGAR – Indian Army’s 15 Corps Commander Lt. Gen S. A. Hasnian has said that terror infrastructure is still active across the border.

Interacting with mediaperson here on Wednesday, General Hasnian said: “One should not look at the number of militants operating. Rather one should see the broader picture of state sponsored terror infrastructure intact across …. Original article  : Srinagar Corps Commander Hasnian says terror infrastructure active across border.

Displaced Kashmiri Hindus stage protest in Srinagar

JAMMU – Displaced Kashmiri Hindus staged protest against the government inaction over their resettlement issues in Jammu.

The demonstrators were observing, what they call, the 21st ‘holocaust day’, on Wednesday.

The Panun Kashmir, a leading organisation of Kashmiri Pandits, resolved to pursue the demand for a homeland within the constitutional framework of India.

“We believe that on this … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Displaced Kashmiri Hindus stage protest in Srinagar.

Two Maoist sympathisers arrested in Chhattisgarh

Dantewada (Chhattisgarh)/ SIMDEGA – Chhattisgarh Police arrested a chemist shop owner and two Maoist sympathisers in Dantewada district on Wednesday.

According to senior police officials the chemist had been providing drugs and medicinal equipments to Maoists.

S.R.P Kalluri, Senior Superintendent of Police has said that the chemist and sympathisers were arrested during an operation on the previous …. Source  : Two Maoist sympathisers arrested in Chhattisgarh.

We are urged to join this Pakistan

LONDON – It is true majority of people of the State of Jammu and Kashmir DONOT want the status quo. They want this forced division, extremism, violence, hatred and culture of fear and intimidation to end. Many in Pakistan also want the suffering of the Kashmiris to end. Some even say, let Kashmiris be independent …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : We are urged to join this Pakistan.

Foreign Ministers Krishna and Rudd discuss strengthening of Indo-Australian ties

MELBOURNE – External Affair Minister S. M. Krishna met his Australian counterpart Kevin Rudd here at the Seventh Foreign Ministers Framework Dialogue.

The meeting was aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries.

India and Australia have exchanged their views at length over the several issues including the Indian students issue, change in immigration … Read : Foreign Ministers Krishna and Rudd discuss strengthening of Indo-Australian ties.

Uranium sale issue resolution key to sealing strategic Indo-Oz partnership: Krishna

MELBOURNE – India hopes to persuade Australia to lift a ban on uranium sales, saying that it would further strengthen and expand the strategic partnership between the two countries.

External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna, who met Australian Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd here today, said that despite India’s test of an atomic weapon, the country could …. Original source  : Uranium sale issue resolution key to sealing strategic Indo-Oz partnership: Krishna.

Afghan peace efforts: OIC likely to invite Taliban ‘as observers’ to March summit

ISLAMABAD – In an effort to find a negotiated settlement to the Afghan imbroglio, the Taliban leadership is likely to be invited as observers to an Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) summit meeting, which is scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia in March.

The OIC has already sent an invitation to the Afghan High Peace … Read more >>.

US Koran-burning pastor banned from entering UK

LONDON – The U.S. preacher who sparked outrage by saying that he was going to burn copies of the Koran has been banned from entering the UK.

Pastor Terry Jones had earlier last year caused an outrage when he announced plans by his Florida-based church to burn copies of the Koran to mark the anniversary of …. Source  : US Koran-burning pastor banned from entering UK.

Sarkozy’s ‘Alsace region still German’ gaffe sparks fury

LONDON – French President Nicolas Sarkozy has sparked outrage by saying that the Alsace region, won back from the Nazis after the World War II, was still ‘in Germany’.

He made the slip during a speech to agriculturalists in the Alsatian town of Truchtersheim, less than 20 miles from the German border, reports the Daily Mail.

Sarkozy … Read more >>.

Dalrymple spat reminds us why we may still be mentally colononised

NEW DELHI -”The colonial hangover afflicts not us, but them.” So says Will Heaven of the UK Telegraph, https://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/news/willheaven/100072376/a-fuming-william-dalrymple-declares-war-on-a-piece-of-blatantly-racist-indian-journalism/reflecting on the spat between Hartosh Singh Bal and William Dalrymple.

For a quick recap, Mr. Bal wrote a provocative essay in Open magazine, https://www.openthemagazine.com/article/art-culture/the-literary-raj arguing that the Indian literary world is in thrall to a latter-day …. Source article  : Dalrymple spat reminds us why we may still be mentally colononised.

India appreciates Australia’s support for UNSC permanent membership: Krishna

MELBOURNE – External Affairs Minister S. M. Krishna on Thursday expressed India’s appreciation of Australia’s support for New Delhi’s quest for becoming a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and support for India’s membership of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) last year.

Addressing the Seventh India-Australia Ministers’ Framework Dialogue here, Krishna said: “It … Read this article on Gaea Times at : India appreciates Australia’s support for UNSC permanent membership: Krishna.

South African cops quiz rent boy over Brit-Indian honeymooner Shrien Dewani

CAPE TOWN – A rent boy who claims that Brit-Indian millionaire Shrien Dewani, who has been allegedly accused of masterminding his wife’s murder during their honeymoon, paid him for sex has been quizzed for two days by South African police.

According to the Sun, the male prostitute from Munich calls himself The German Master.

Senior South African …. Read the original article  : South African cops quiz rent boy over Brit-Indian honeymooner Shrien Dewani.

After Paris decades, S.H. Raza wants to assimilate with India (Interview – with image)

NEW DELHI – One of India’s oldest and best-known contemporary artists, S.H. Raza, at 88, has just begun work on a new series of art to mark his homecoming after six decades in Paris. He says he wants to live in India as a “tax-paying, Hindi-speaking” citizen.

“I have sold almost all my old works …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : After Paris decades, S.H. Raza wants to assimilate with India (Interview – with image).

Of love and longing for India: a French woman’s journey

NEW DELHI – Christelle Gourdine, a French national of Guadeloupean and Indian origin, has been fascinated by her Indian roots for many years. But she is surprised and saddened that not many know about the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe’s Indian connection.

Christelle was born in France.
“People (in France) are surprised when I reply that …. Source  : Of love and longing for India: a French woman’s journey.

Manipur teachers go on strike, demand central pay structure

IMPHAL – The Council of Teachers’ Association (COTA) has called for an indefinite strike here demanding implementation of a central pay structure in Manipur.

Earlier on Thursday, the teachers from primary as well as higher secondary schools began their fast-unto-death …. Read the original article  : here.

US restaurant to sell tacos made from lion meat

WASHINGTON – A restaurant in Tucson, Ariz., that has been selling tacos made from alligator, rattlesnake and kangaroo is now including lion meat to its menu.

Boca Tacos y Tequila says it is accepting prepaid orders by February 7 for …. Original source  : US restaurant to sell tacos made from lion meat.

Second teacher involved in lesbian allegations at NY school files suit

NEW YORK – The second teacher, who was caught in a compromising position last year at James Madison H.S. with another female teacher, has filed a suit to have her firing overturned.

The two, French teacher Cindy Mauro, 34, and Spanish …. Source  : Second teacher involved in lesbian allegations at NY school files suit.

South Korea agrees to hold talks with North Korea

SEOUL – South Korea has finally agreed to hold talks with North Korea following several entreaties from the latter to discuss escalating tensions on the Korean peninsula.

Signaling a possible diplomatic thaw after months of tension on the …. Original source  : South Korea agrees to hold talks with North Korea.

I don’t regret Iraq war, says Condoleezza Rice

WASHINGTON – Former US secretary of state Condoleezza Rice has said that she does not regret the Iraq war but admitted “the mistake…was to put a spotlight simply on the weapons of mass destruction”.

In an interview with Piers Morgan on CNN International Thursday, Rice said: “You can win this war against the extremists who … Original source on Gaea Times at : I don’t regret Iraq war, says Condoleezza Rice.

Sarah Palin’s hubby ‘in sex scandal with massage therapist’

NEW YORK – Former Alaskan Governor Sarah Palin’s husband Todd is embroiled in a sex scandal involving a massage therapist who has been “busted for prostitution,” according to a report.

The National Enquirer claims it has unearthed official documents showing Shailey Tripp was arrested for maintaining a house of prostitution in March and that cops have … Original article on : Sarah Palin’s hubby ‘in sex scandal with massage therapist’.

Kiwi woman partially paralysed by ‘love bite’

WELLINGTON – A Christchurch doctor has reported a case where a Maori woman was left partially paralysed by a love bite from her amorous partner.

Dr Teddy Wu, who is currently working in the neurology department at Christchurch Hospital, said he believed it was the first time someone had been hospitalised by a “hickey”.

The 44-year-old …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

China poses no economic, military threat to US: Hu Jintao

WASHINGTON – Chinese President Hu Jintao has assured the United States that his country is Washington’s economic partner, and added that it does not intend to pose a military threat to America or any other country.

“We will remain committed to the path of peaceful development. We do not engage in an arms race, we …. Original article  : China poses no economic, military threat to US: Hu Jintao.

Rachel Uchitel writes final farewell letter to fiance killed during 9/11 tragedy

LONDON – Rachel Uchitel made an emotional visit to Ground Zero as part of her stint in VH1’s Celebrity Rehab, and wrote a final farewell letter to her fiance who was killed during the 9/11 disaster.

Uchitel, 35, was taken by the show’s Dr Drew to Ground Zero where her investment banker fiance Andy O’Grady had … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rachel Uchitel writes final farewell letter to fiance killed during 9/11 tragedy.

No proposal to reduce military personnel in Kashmir: Antony

MUMBAI – Defence Minister A.K. Antony Friday said if there was any reduction of security forces in Jammu and Kashmir it would be of paramilitary troopers as there was no proposal from “people who work on the ground” to reduce military personnel in the troubled state.

“There was some confusion. The announcement that was made …. Original source  : No proposal to reduce military personnel in Kashmir: Antony.

Husain’s paintings removed from India Art Summit

NEW DELHI – Art lovers who hoped to catch M.F. Husain’s paintings at the India Art Summit here have disappointment in store, with the organisers Friday saying they had received at least 20 e-mails warning against displaying the works of the artist who lives in self-imposed exile.

“Vandals may come in and there could …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Gorkhaland activists organise peace march in Siliguri

SILIGURI – Activists of Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJMM) organised a peace march urging locals to maintain peace and harmony in Siliguri.

The objective of the peace march was the establishment of a separate Gorkha land state in a peaceful manner.

Talking to mediapersons, Shankar Adhikari, Convener of Terai region GJMM said that the state government as well … Original source on Gaea Times at : Gorkhaland activists organise peace march in Siliguri.

China announces donation for Nalanda University

PATNA – Chinese Ambassador to India, Zhang Yan has announced one billion US dollar aid for the reconstruction of Nalanda University.

Yan made the announcement after meeting Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar here on Thursday.

“Nalanda University is under the reconstruction. Chinese government has donated one billion US dollars, to support the reconstruction of the Nalanda University,” … Read more >>>.

Pakistan attempts infiltration in Akhnoor, one intruder killed

JAMMU – Border Security Force (BSF) troopers on Friday killed a suspected intruder trying to sneak into Indian territory from across the international border in Jammu and Kashmir’s Akhnoor sector.

According to sources, BSF troopers noticed suspicious movement in Pargwal in Akhnoor sector along the international border, 40 km northwest of Jammu, at 4.15 a.m.

On …. Source article  : Pakistan attempts infiltration in Akhnoor, one intruder killed.

US asks China to stop N. Korea’s nuke ambitions

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has reportedly warned Chinese counterpart Hu Jintao that Washington would be forced to deploy forces in Asia to safeguard itself from a potential North Korean attack on American soil, if Beijing fails to take steps to stop North Korea’s uranium enrichment plants.

The New York Times quoted a senior … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US asks China to stop N. Korea’s nuke ambitions.

Maoists kill a villager in Chhattisgarh

BADHGAON – Maoists killed a villager in Badhgaon under Chhattisgarh’s Kanker district on Thursday.

The body of Ramsu was found lying on the outskirts of Badejharkatta village with a poster stuck on his clothes.

According to the poster, the Maoists accepted that they had committed the crime and accused Ramsu of being a police informer. They also …. Source article  : Maoists kill a villager in Chhattisgarh.

Farmers in Karchana in UP demand compensation for land acquired

KARCHANA – Farmers protested in Karchana of Uttar Pradesh over their demand of rightful compensation against usage of their land for building of a power project.

Hundreds of local farmers blocked the road and shouted slogans against the administration for turning a deaf ear to their pleas.

Mahadev Dwivedi, a leader of the agitating farmers said that …. Read the original article  : Farmers in Karchana in UP demand compensation for land acquired.

Textile industry workers call off strike in Surat

SURAT – The weeklong strike by a group of textile industry workers ended in Surat on Thursday.

The textile workers have been demanding higher wages for some time now and recently they called for a shutdown of all powerloom units in the city.

Workers called off the shutdown after a meeting with mill owners.

“Today’s decision was that …. Source article  : Textile industry workers call off strike in Surat.

Hu Jintao calls for ‘deeper engagement’ with US

WASHINGTON – Chinese President Hu Jintao has called for deeper engagement with the United States to solve a number of issues that have hampered bilateral ties between both countries.

“It is only normal that we have some disagreements and frictions. But the two sides should manage them with a sense of responsibility to history and to … Read : Hu Jintao calls for ‘deeper engagement’ with US.

PPP, PML-N set timeline for reform agenda implementation

ISLAMABAD – The ruling Pakistan People’s Party and the major opposition party, Pakistan Muslim League-N, have registered progress in their joint effort to face the economic challenges and resolve conflicting political issues, as both parties’ committees have set directions and timelines for key points ranging from energy outages to the accountability bill.

The PML-N asserted that … Read more »»».

Moradabad factory develops gas leak, seven hospitalized

MORADABAD – Seven women workers were hospitalised after a toffee-manufacturing factory sprung a gas leak in Uttar Pradesh’s Moradabad district.

The workers were admitted to a private nursing home after they began vomiting.

“I have got to know that in a toffee manufacturing factory, a furnace or something had burst and they had inhaled carbon monoxide. As …. Original source  : Moradabad factory develops gas leak, seven hospitalized.

Maharashtra sex workers get their own community radio

AHMEDNAGAR – Commercial sex workers in Maharashtra now have the opportunity to express themselves and discuss their issues using a community radio.

A non-government organization (NGO) has set up a radio station exclusively for sex workers in Ahmednagar that they can discuss matters pertaining to their day-to-day lives and the problems they face as marginalized members … Read : Maharashtra sex workers get their own community radio.

Harvard University will present literary cultures of India to global community

NEVADA – World famous Harvard University of USA will make literary heritage of India available to English-language readers.

Called “Murty Classical Library of India” series, this dual-language series will enhance scholarship in the field and also serve the needs of the general public. It will present the literary cultures of India to a global readership. …. Original article  : Harvard University will present literary cultures of India to global community.

Lauding Italian firm on Colosseum, Hindus ask Indian conglomerates to rescue historical sites

NEVADA – Hindus have commended Tod’s S.p.A., luxury shoes and goods firm for its reported offer to cover the cost of restoring the Colosseum in Rome (Italy).

Its Chairman and CEO Diego Della Valle has offered to sponsor the restoration of ancient Colosseum, which is expected to cost around $34 million, starting at the end of …. Source article  : Lauding Italian firm on Colosseum, Hindus ask Indian conglomerates to rescue historical sites.

Vatican stresses ‘truth’ as focus of new technologies: Hindus agree

NEVADA – The truth must remain the firm and unchanging point of reference of new media and the digital world, opening up new horizons of information and knowledge, a Vatican communique points out.

Ideally, it is the pursuit of truth which constitutes the fundamental objective of all those who work in the media, it adds.

Distinguished Hindu … Read : Vatican stresses ‘truth’ as focus of new technologies: Hindus agree.

Jews back Hindus asking apology from Jim Carrey, NBC for mocking Lord Ganesh

NEVADA – Jews have come out in support of Hindus, who are disturbed over the portrayal of Lord Ganesh as a sex act on NBC’s Saturday Night Live (SNL) and want apologies from all those responsible for it, including actor Jim Carrey and NBC.

Rabbi ElizaBeth W. Beyer, Jewish leader in Nevada (USA), in a statement …. Source  : Jews back Hindus asking apology from Jim Carrey, NBC for mocking Lord Ganesh.

Karnataka ministers march to Raj Bhavan over Yeddyurappa’s prosecution

BANGALORE – An eight-member ministerial team on Saturday staged a march to Raj Bhavan demanding that Karnataka Governor H S Bhardwaj provide them a copy of the order according sanction for prosecuting Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa.

The team led by Karnataka Law Minister S Suresh Kumar walked the distance of more than one km from …. Source  : Karnataka ministers march to Raj Bhavan over Yeddyurappa’s prosecution.

Orhan Pamuk, Kiran Desai pull out of Sri Lanka literary festival

LONDON – Prize-winning novelists Orhan Pamuk and Kiran Desai have both pulled out of Sri Lanka’s main literary festival.

Pamuk, 58, and Desai, 39, are currently at the Jaipur Literature Festival in India, and the couple was due to go on to Galle, in southern Sri Lanka, for the event next week.

The Galle Literary Festival says …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Orhan Pamuk, Kiran Desai pull out of Sri Lanka literary festival.

Lee’s praise for navy’s strike against Somali pirates ‘veiled threat to Pyongyang’: Expert

SEOUL – South Korean President Lee Myung-bak’s national television appearance praising the navy for rescuing the crewmen of Seoul’s cargo ship in the Arabian Sea from Somalia pirates, is seen by analysts as an indirect warning to North Korea that his country is prepared to fight back if the situation ever warrants.

“Our military carried … Read more : Lee’s praise for navy’s strike against Somali pirates ‘veiled threat to Pyongyang’: Expert.

Now, an L cup bra for women who are more than well endowed

NEW YORK – A lingerie firm has come up with an L cup size bra for women who are well endowed.

Bravissimo offered the larger cup size after women asked the company for something more sizable than its KK cup.Our research has shown that up to 40 percent of women should be wearing a D cup …. Original article  : Now, an L cup bra for women who are more than well endowed.

Movie about Julian Assange’s life in the works

NEW YORK – A new film based on the life of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is being fast-tracked before he can reveal his own life story.

Assange has said he is writing a book that could become a screenplay, reports the New York Post.

However, Josephson Entertainment and Michelle Krumm Productions have stolen the WikiLeaks founder’s thunder.

They … Read more >>>.

New array of smartphone apps to help you spot singles!

WASHINGTON – A whole new array of applications on the Web and smartphones are designed to help you spot singles near you.

Some are dedicated mobile dating platforms that use GPS technology to help you find potential matches in your immediate vicinity.

Others use location information to show you where you’re more likely to find members …. Original article  : New array of smartphone apps to help you spot singles!.

Berlusconi ‘had sexual relations one at a time every 5 mins’

LONDON – As Silvio Berlusconi undergoes formal trial for paying a juvenile prostitute and then abusing his authority to cover up the fact, a witness has come forward with apparently damaging evidence against him.

Nadia Macri, a prostitute who went to a police station in Milan to give a statement, in which she revealed that that …. Original source  : Berlusconi ‘had sexual relations one at a time every 5 mins’.

Gabrielle Giffords successfully transferred to rehab in Texas

LONDON – US Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords has been successfully transferred from a hospital in Tucson, Arizona to a rehabilitation centre in Texas.

Giffords, 40, who had been shot in the head at a shooting at a constituency meeting in which six people died, was transferred to the Memorial Hermann Rehabilitation Hospital in Texas, the BBC reported.

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

Brit couples’ favourite time for sex -10.12 on Saturday night

LONDON – Saturday night is Brit couples’ favourite time to have sex, says a new survey.

The survey of 3,000 Brits found that couples’ preferred nookie deadline, which is 10.12, almost clashes with BBC TV’s Match Of The Day.

The second most popular time of the week to have sex is Friday night at 9.46, followed by …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brit couples’ favourite time for sex -10.12 on Saturday night.

‘Serious challenges’ plague massive US aid to Pakistan: Report

ISLAMABAD – The ambitious US civilian-aid program, which has made Pakistan the world’s second-largest recipient of American economic and development assistance, is facing a host of serious challenges on the ground.

A push to give more money directly to the the Pakistan government and local organisations has been slowed by concerns about the local groups’ capacity …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Serious challenges’ plague massive US aid to Pakistan: Report.

Maoists allege that Government wants to capture natural resources

PALAMU – At a public meeting in Jharkhand’s Palamu district Maoists alleged that the Central government wants to capture natural resources such as water, forest and land.

Azad, a Maoist leader, said: “The policy of the Government of India is to capture water, forest and land and their excuse is Maoists.”

Armed struggle he said would continue …. Original source  : Maoists allege that Government wants to capture natural resources.

China welcomes proposed ‘inter-Korean military talks’

BEIJING – China has expressed support for the proposed inter-Korean military talks, with hopes that Seoul and Pyongyang would sort out their differences through dialogues.

“We support and welcome the two countries improving relations and stepping up reconciliation and bilateral cooperation through dialogue. We hope their talks achieve positive progress,” Xinhua quoted Foreign Ministry spokesman … Read more »»».

Obama presidency proving to be ‘Clinton’s third term’: Newt Gingrich

WASHINGTON – Newt Gingrich, a possible candidate for the 2012 Republican presidential nomination, has said he believes that the Barack Obama presidency is gradually becoming “the third term of the Clintons,” as many of Bill Clinton’s former staffers are part of the Obama administration.

“It’s think it’s fascinating. You’re sort of seeing the beginning of the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Obama presidency proving to be ‘Clinton’s third term’: Newt Gingrich.

Jaipur literay festival begin

JAIPUR – Literature lovers from across the country are visiting the annual Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF) that began here on Friday to meet and interact with renowned literary personalities of the world.

National and international writers, singers, envoys and students flocked the pink city to witness the five-day long festival that concludes on January 25.

Famous Bollywood …. Source article  : Jaipur literay festival begin.

Is TV triumphing over conversation in modern life?

WASHINGTON – It’s often said that getting the whole brood around the dining table is an important way to nurture a tightly knit family. Beyond health and nutrition, it provides a valuable opportunity to reconnect.

However, people nowadays are more interested in tuning in to television rather than chatting during mealtime – a trend that is … Read more >>.

“God(s), A User’s Guide” exhibition in Canadian museum displays Lord Shiva and Garuda

NEVADA – “Musee de la civilization” in Quebec (Canada) is currently holding an exhibition “God(s), A User’s Guide”, which reportedly displays Lord Shiva and Garuda.

According to a Museum communique, it offers an open-minded look at religion and related topics. This exhibition does not tackle the notion of spirituality from a theological, historic, or artistic standpoint, … Read more >>>.

Women more likely than men to pull a sickie

LONDON – A recent research has found women are more likely than men to not only ‘pull a sickie’ but also to pull off embarrassing excuses for taking unplanned leaves.

The most embarrassing excuse given to the boss being none other than “women’s issues.”

Research carried out for Sovereign Health Care … Original article on : Women more likely than men to pull a sickie.

Afghan Govt. accuses US linked private security firms of committing “major offences”

KABUL – The Afghan government has reportedly listed a number of prominent private security companies, including some that work with the U.S. government, accusing them of committing “major offences.”

A list compiled by Afghan officials cites 16 companies, including several American and British firms, for unspecified …. Original article  : Afghan Govt. accuses US linked private security firms of committing “major offences”.

How sad?

LONDON – How sad, those who want to empower people and speak for rights of all people of Jammu and Kashmir are accused of being pro India; and those who want to communalise polity of the region by dividing people in name of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Sailor dies, six others go missing after a vessel capsizes off Gujarat coast

PIPAVAV – A sailor lost his life and over half a dozen crewmembers were reported missing after an Indian survey ship capsized off Pipavav coast in the Gulf of Cambay in Gujarat on Saturday.he vessel had a total of 32 crewmembers onboard, out of which 25 were rescued by …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Sailor dies, six others go missing after a vessel capsizes off Gujarat coast.

US drone attack kills four militants in North Waziristan

MIRANSHAH – At least four militants were killed in a US drone attack in North Waziristan on Sunday, according to officials.

“The US drone hit a car immediately after it parked outside a house. Four militants have been killed,” the Dawn … Read : US drone attack kills four militants in North Waziristan.

Pulse Polio Drive In Bihar

PATNA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- As India takes up the renewed effort to eradicate the disease of polio from the nation, the state of Bihar would not be far behind as it initiated a five-day Pulse Polio Programme on Sunday to vaccinate the children below the age of five in the state. In spite of the …. Original article  : Pulse Polio Drive In Bihar.

India Art Summit Grows In Size

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- It is actually a big day for the Indian art community. A single week has never been able to bring so much excitement to the community anytime before. The India Art Summit, 2011 has brought in an astonishing crowd who kept thronging Pragati Maidan all through the day. It seemed … Read : India Art Summit Grows In Size.

Pulse Polio 2011 Campaign Kicks Off

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Pulse Polio Programme 2011 kicked off in states across the country on Sunday in bid to vaccinate an estimated 174 million children below the age of five years. The campaign was inaugurated with President Pratibha Devisingh Patil administering the vaccine to around seven children at Rashtrapati Bhawan yesterday. …. Source  : Pulse Polio 2011 Campaign Kicks Off.

Now, Yeddyurappa takes Karnataka battle to Delhi

BANGALORE – Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa who has been warring over the grant of sanction for his prosecution by State Governor HR Bhardwaj is heading New Delhi to meet with the party’s top leadership and also President Pratibha Devisingh … Original source on Gaea Times at : Now, Yeddyurappa takes Karnataka battle to Delhi.

Kiwi ‘bra man’ charged with indecent assault

WELLINGTON – A fake doctor who is known as the ‘bra man’ was charged with indecent assault by a court on Thursday.

Owen Yaemes, who claimed to be a doctor of traditional Chinese medicine, assaulted one woman by massaging her breast inside her bra as she lay on a treatment table.

He … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kiwi ‘bra man’ charged with indecent assault.

Bath Salts Drug: Life At Risk

FULTON (GaeaTimes.com)- Imagine people slitting themselves up with a knife, after they inhaled a good amount of bath salt. This is exactly what had happened when Neil Brown, a Mississippi resident got high after he inhaled bath salts drug. What are considered to be bath salts, often do not turn out to be so. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Bath Salts Drug: Life At Risk.

Sales figures struggle to match ‘world’s most pricey apartments’ hype?

LONDON – The hype surrounding luxury flats in One Hyde Park, London, may all be fizz as it seems that the flats have no takers and those who did, have been sold ‘cheap.’

At an asking price upwards of 6,000 pounds per square foot, the luxury development-designed by …. Original source  : Sales figures struggle to match ‘world’s most pricey apartments’ hype?.

Brit firm offers a double-decker bus as funeral vehicle

LONDON – A Brit funeral firm has found a unique way to take the dead to their final destination-in a double-decker red bus.

Lymn Undertakers has become the first in Britain to be able to offer the option of a London double-decker instead … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Brit firm offers a double-decker bus as funeral vehicle.

UK kids ‘brush each other’s teeth, cook together’ to manage anger!

LONDON – Anger management classes for children seem to have taken a new turn – the classes include children brushing each other’s teeth, cooking together and grooming.

Occupational therapist Jason Vickers said that handing over all control to someone else to have their teeth brushed helped the youngsters understand how …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : UK kids ‘brush each other’s teeth, cook together’ to manage anger!.

‘Sikh trainee’s ‘hair cutting while asleep’ case indicates Malaysian ignorance

KUALA LUMPUR – The case of Malay Sikh losing face among community after miscreants cut off his hair while he was asleep, points to Malaysian ignorance about other religions and cultural practices.

Professor Dr Shamsul Amri Baharuddin, founding Director of the Ethnic Studies Institute (KITA), Universiti … Read : ‘Sikh trainee’s ‘hair cutting while asleep’ case indicates Malaysian ignorance.

Modi can never be forgiven for Godhra riots: Dar-ul-Uloom chief

DEOBAND – Maulana Ghulam Mohammad Vastanvi, the newly-elected chief of the Dar-ul-Uloom in Deoband, Uttar Pradesh, has said that Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi can never be forgiven for the Godhra riots of 2002.

“I don’t think that there is any Muslim or Indian who would call the massacres during Modi’s reign eight … Read more »».

30m pounds of taxpayers’ money find if ethnic Chinese, gays being discriminated

LONDON – The UK government is facing fire for using tens of millions of pounds of taxpayers’ money to ensure that new equality laws are not discriminating against minority groups.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) paid 100,000 pounds to consultants for reporting if efforts to boost … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 30m pounds of taxpayers’ money find if ethnic Chinese, gays being discriminated.

Indian Australians say bilateral ties improving

SYDNEY – Indian immigrants in Australia say there is a lot of improvement in bilateral relations between the two countries.

Shams, an Indian immigrant, said that comparatively there is lot of improvement in the relations between the two countries.

“Now, it is going fine. There is a lot of improvement. Many white …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indian Australians say bilateral ties improving.

26th January Metro Services Disruption

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Owing to the Republic day dress rehearsals that took place on January 23rd 2011, the residents of Delhi had to put up with some disruptions in commuting. The two stations Udyog Bhawan and Central Secretariat were made unavailable for commute for the residents till 12.30 pm. These two metro stations …. Read the original article  : 26th January Metro Services Disruption.

Republic Day: North-East Under High Alert

GUWAHATI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- As the country gears up to celebrate the Republic Day on January 26, the north-eastern part of India is shrouded in veil of security in the wake of increasing threats from the separatists groups to boycott the day. Security has been beefed up in most of the states of the north-eastern …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Republic Day To Highlight Harmonious Gujarat

VADODARA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Gujarat will be taking full effort on this Republic Day, in order to campaign in favor of peace and well being in the state. After the vibrant Gujarat Summit, the state has been charged to project itself as the advocate of peace and unity.
To start with, the Gujarat Government tableau … Read more >>.

Alert sounded in Jammu and Kashmir

JAMMU – A red alert was sounded across Jammu and Kashmir Monday following reports of a major terrorist strike being planned in the run-up to the Republic Day Jan 26, said intelligence agencies sources here.

The state government and the union home ministry have started exchanging notes on security issues on an hourly-basis.
Terrorist outfit … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Alert sounded in Jammu and Kashmir.

‘Cranky and fickle’ Independent voters may be turning back to Obama

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama and congressional Democrats learned at least one big lesson in the November 2010 elections-What the independent voter gives, the independent voter can also take away.

Now, the same temperamental bloc that threw House Democrats out of power … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Cranky and fickle’ Independent voters may be turning back to Obama.

Krishna condoles demise of Bharat Ratna Pandit Bhimsen Joshi

NEW DELHI – External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna has deeply condoled the passing away of Bharat Ratna Hindustani classical vocalist Pandit Bhimsen Joshi.

Krishna in his message said: “Not only India but the entire world has lost a shining light of music and a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Krishna condoles demise of Bharat Ratna Pandit Bhimsen Joshi.

Married UK House of Lords leader’s affair with single mum exposed

LONDON – The leader of the House of Lords, Lord Strathclyde, who is married and has three children, has according to claims by a single mother been having an affair with her for almost eight years.

Lord Strathclyde, 50, a close confidant of David Cameron, is said to have pursued his … Read more >>.

US drone strikes kill 13 militants in North Waziristan

ISLAMABAD – At least 13 militants have reportedly been killed in a series of unmanned US drone strikes in Pakistan’s North Waziristan province.

According to the Daily Times, the first two attacks took place in Datta Khel, some 40 kilometres west of North … Original source on Gaea Times at : US drone strikes kill 13 militants in North Waziristan.

Dubai opens ‘world’s highest restaurant’

WASHINGTON – Dubai has set a new record by opening world’s highest restaurant.

A fine dining establishment called At.mosphere has opened on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest tower in the world, at a height of 1,350 feet, reports Fox News.

The eatery is just three feet lower …. Source  : Dubai opens ‘world’s highest restaurant’.

Powell still supports Obama, but uncertain about his choice in 2012 Presidential polls

WASHINGTON – Former US Secretary of State Colin Powell has said that he still supports US President Barack Obama, but is not certain about who to vote for in 2012.

Powell, a retired general and moderate Republican, shocked most Americans with his decision to endorse Democrat Obama, during the 2008 presidential …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bhimsen Joshi passes away, country mourns death of its ‘ratna’ (Second Lead)

PUNE – Indian singing legend Pandit Bhimsen Joshi died here Monday after nearly a month in hospital. As thousands queued up to pay their last respects to the 88-year-old music maestro, artists across the country described the loss as the sunset of Indian music.

Joshi, who was awarded the country’s highest civilian honour … Original article on : Bhimsen Joshi passes away, country mourns death of its ‘ratna’ (Second Lead).

Sri Lanka Navy denies shooting Indian fishermen

COLOMBO – Sri Lanka Monday strongly rejected allegations that its navy had killed an Indian fisherman and warned of “elements” trying to tarnish relations between the neighbouring countries.

Navy spokesman Captain Athula Senarath said its personnel had no involvement in Saturday’s reported shooting off the Kodikarai coast in Nagapattinam district, where one fisherman was killed … Original article on : Sri Lanka Navy denies shooting Indian fishermen.

Gunman injures four in Detroit police precinct

DETROIT – A gunman walked into a police precinct in Detroit Sunday evening and shot four persons before being gunned down.

WXYZ-TV in Detroit said four people – one a commander and another a patrolman – were rushed to hospitals.

The Detroit News reported all four will live.

WXYZ-TV reported that the gunman walked into the 6th Precinct …. Read the original article  : Gunman injures four in Detroit police precinct.

Oxbridge students compete in depraved challenge to win free ???2K holiday

LONDON – Students from Oxford and Cambridge were seen competing in depraved challenges to win a free five-star holiday worth 2,000 pounds at a French ski resort.

Female students stripped down to their underwear in front of hundreds of onlookers, while both men and women simulated sex acts with each other.

In one game, losers were required … Read more >>.

Kiwi police confirm burnt body as being that of an Indian woman

AUCKLAND – South Auckland Police have identified the body of the woman who was burnt to death on a Waikato roadside as being an Indian. Her name, they said, was Ranjeeta Sharma.

An international search has been launched for her husband, who has reportedly fled the country with the couple’s four-year-old son.

The couple are both … Read more >>.

International crime groups spreading ‘trafficking of Chinese women’ abroad

BEIJING – A Chinese police officer has claimed there has been a rise in the number of women from his country being forced into prostitution abroad by international crime groups.

The China Daily quoted Chen Shiqu, Director of the Anti-Human Trafficking Office, which falls under the Ministry of Public Security, as saying that poor women … Original article on : International crime groups spreading ‘trafficking of Chinese women’ abroad.

US committed to help Pak promote tolerance, work against hardliners: Posner

LAHORE – United States Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labour, Michael H. Posner, has said that Pakistan is an ally of the Obama administration, and was committed to working against hardliners.

“The US is eager to assist Pakistan in promoting tolerance and respect for each other,” the Daily Times … Read more >>>.

Obama has “learned a lot” in two years of presidency: McCain

WASHINGTON – John McCain, the Republican Arizona Senator who was placed opposite Barack Obama in the 2008 presidential polls, has praised the latter as someone who has “learned a lot” in the first two years of his presidency, and improved his politics following last year’s mid-term polls.

CBS News quoted McCain, as saying that …. Read the original article  : here.

Security enhanced along Pakistan border ahead of Republic Day

BASPUR – Security forces have beefed up security in Jammu and Kashmir along Pakistan border ahead of the Republic Day.

Border Security Force (BSF), police personnel and Village Defence Committee (VDC) members in adequate strength have been deployed all along 202-kilometer-long border from Samba to Akhnoor sector in Jammu region.

In Baspur village, which lies along the …. Read the original article  : Security enhanced along Pakistan border ahead of Republic Day.

WWI soldiers’ autograph book found in Cambridgeshire

LONDON – A book containing inscriptions written by World War I soldiers has been discovered in Cambridgeshire.

The autograph book, which was written at a military hospital more than 90 years ago, was found among old photographs at Roy Chamberlain’s home in Foxton.

Chamberlain, 90, believes his mother, Mary, visited soldiers being treated at Shepreth village hall, …. Original source  : WWI soldiers’ autograph book found in Cambridgeshire.

Republic Day Parade To Take Place

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- While tight security has been arranged at the major cities nationwide, India is all set to exhibit the military might to the world tomorrow during the Republic Day celebrations. Each year the Indian army and air force display the weaponry and major achievements in military technology and 2011 will not be … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Republic Day Parade To Take Place.

755 police men awarded for gallantry, 18 posthumously

NEW DELHI – Some 755 police personnel, 18 of whom were killed while performing their duties, would be awarded police medals on the occasion of Republic Day Wednesday.

The President’s Police Medals for gallantry would be given to 11 personnel, police medals for gallantry to 129, and President’s Police Medals for distinguished service to 82 … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 755 police men awarded for gallantry, 18 posthumously.

Indonesian President accorded ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan

NEW DELHI – Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, who is on a three day visit to India, was on Tuesday accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.

President Pratibha Patil and Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh ere present on the occasion …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indonesian President accorded ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Was Abe Lincoln’s ‘pardon to death row inmate before assassination’ claim doctored?

WASHINGTON – An amateur US historian has been accused of doctoring a key document of former US President Abraham Lincoln for his own benefit by changing the date of an April 14, 1864, presidential pardon to 1865, the fateful day Lincoln was assassinated …. Original source  : Was Abe Lincoln’s ‘pardon to death row inmate before assassination’ claim doctored?.

Oz man who kissed wife’s bottom avoids jail

MELBOURNE – An Aussie man has avoided a prison term after he drunkenly kissed his estranged wife on the bottom.

The 48-year-old ex-social worker was sentenced in the Hobart Magistrates Court, reports News.com.au.

The court heard at a previous hearing that the unemployed man had been drinking when he went to his … Read more : Oz man who kissed wife’s bottom avoids jail.

Security beefed up at Beijing airport after Moscow blast

BEIJING – Chinese police have tightened security at Beijing International Airport following a bomb blast incident Monday which killed 35 people and injured at least 150 others at Moscow’s Domodedovo airport.

More police dogs have been deployed at key areas at the airport, including luggage claim points, check-in counters and departure and arrival halls, Xinuha …. Original source  : Security beefed up at Beijing airport after Moscow blast.

Writing far easier than drawing: graphic novelist Sarnath Banerjee

JAIPUR – He describes the writers’ block as creative constipation, has grown up reading Tintin comics and, with his third graphic novel, “The Harappa Files”, Sarnath Banerjee feels he has “opened new forms” in this genre.

“My third book is more like an illustrated text. It opens up the form of graphic novels using [..] Read the original article: here.

R-Day for youth: A holiday, a grand parade, a technical definition!

NEW DELHI – Ah Republic Day! For one youngster, it’s a day to remember a grandfather who fought for the country, for another, a chance to witness on TV a grand parade of India’s cultural and military might, and for many others, a time to enjoy a holiday.

College students and young professionals say they …. Source article  : R-Day for youth: A holiday, a grand parade, a technical definition!.

Republic Day: Food Festival At JNU

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The capital is gearing up for the upcoming Republic Day celebration tomorrow and the entire city has been put under stringent security scanner. Tomorrow transportation is going to be affected in Delhi and paramilitary forces have joined the patrolling with city cops. However, that does not mean that the residents and … Original article on : Republic Day: Food Festival At JNU.

Pakistan expresses solidarity with Russia after Domodedovo airport terror attack

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has strongly condemned the terrorist attack at a Moscow airport, and expressed solidarity with the people and the leadership of Russia.

At least 35 people were killed and over 130 others wounded in the blast that rocked Moscow’s Domodedovo airport on Monday.

“Nothing could justify such terrorist attack against innocent people,” PTV quoted …. Source  : Pakistan expresses solidarity with Russia after Domodedovo airport terror attack.

FIA freezes foreign currency accounts of Pak’s former Religious Affairs Minister

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Federal Investigative Agency (FIA) has sealed off the foreign currency account of former Minister for Religious Affairs Hamid Saeed Kazmi.

According to sources, Kazmi has many foreign currency accounts with thousands of pounds and dollars in various banks in Multan.

Talking to Geo News, Kazmi confirmed his foreign currency accounts in the banks, which … Original source on Gaea Times at : FIA freezes foreign currency accounts of Pak’s former Religious Affairs Minister.

Obama ‘backed out of land promise to Palestinians’

LONDON – US President Barack Obama reneged on an important Bush administration pledge to give the Palestinians their “land of promise”.

Documents leaked by Al-Jazeera TV suggest that Obama retreated from a promise that territory occupied by Israel after the Six Day War of 1967 should become the basis for a future Palestinian state.

According to The …. Source article  : Obama ‘backed out of land promise to Palestinians’.

Palestinian leaders agreed to define Israel as a Jewish state

LONDON – Palestinian negotiators privately agreed with Israel to define the latter as a Jewish state in sharp contrast to their public position, confidential documents leaked by Al Jazeera TV reveal.

According to the leaked information, the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) also agreed that only 10, 000 refugees and their families, out of a total … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Palestinian leaders agreed to define Israel as a Jewish state.

UN to grill Australia on human rights

GENEVA – Australian officials will appear before the UN’s Human Rights Council in Geneva on Thursday for what’s known as a universal periodic review (UPR).

All of the UN’s 192 member countries are required to undergo a UPR – which aims to probe every aspect of a country’s human rights record – every four years.

This will …. Original article  : UN to grill Australia on human rights.

Murdered Indian-origin bride’s sister wants husband to stand trial in SA, prove his innocence

LONDON – The sister of Anni Dewani, the Indian-origin bride killed during her honeymoon in Cape Town last year, has said that her brother-in-law should not have any problem to stand trial in South Africa if he is innocent.

Shrien Dewani had failed to attend the extradition hearing at Westminster Magistrate’s Court in London last … Read : Murdered Indian-origin bride’s sister wants husband to stand trial in SA, prove his innocence.

Giving employees more autonomy pays huge dividends

WASHINGTON – Workers who feel they are free to make choices at workplace and be accountable for them are happier and more productive, suggests a new book.

The book, ‘Human Autonomy in Cross-Cultural Context: Perspectives on the Psychology of Agency, Freedom, and Well-Being,’ co-authored by Marylene Gagne and Devasheesh Bhave from Concordia’s John Molson School of [..] Read the original article: here.

Israel should not panic over a Hezbollah run Lebanon: Experts

JERUSALEM – Analysts have said that there is no immediate need for Israel to be alarmed over the prospect of a Lebanese government being backed by its worst enemy, the Hezbollah.

Professor Efraim Inbar, the director of the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies at Bar-Ilan University, said that while “the Hezbollization of Lebanon” is continuing, … Read : Israel should not panic over a Hezbollah run Lebanon: Experts.

Indian worker faces six months jail for kissing schoolgirl in Dubai

DUBAI – An Indian worker in Dubai is facing a six months jail term after he grabbed a 9-year-old schoolgirl and kissed her on the lips.

The Dubai Court of First Instance convicted the 41-year-old worker, named V.K., of sexually molesting the girl in a building’s elevator in Naif.

Presiding Judge Hamad Abdul Latif Abdul Jawad said …. Original source  : Indian worker faces six months jail for kissing schoolgirl in Dubai.

China to create world’s largest mega city with 42 million people

BEIJING – Chinese planners are reportedly proposing to merge nine cities around the Pearl River Delta in the southern parts of the country, to create the world’s biggest mega city, twice the size of Wales with a population of 42 million.

According to The Telegraph, the “Turn The Pearl River Delta Into One” scheme will create …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : China to create world’s largest mega city with 42 million people.

Russia to deploy first-strike nuke missiles if NATO fails to respond on AMD system

MOSCOW – Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has warned that his country would deploy its first-strike nuclear missiles if NATO fails to co-operate in reaching an agreement with the country’s alliance on the latest proposal about the European anti-missile defence (AMD) system.

“We need it (AMD) not to play some common games with NATO but to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Russia to deploy first-strike nuke missiles if NATO fails to respond on AMD system.

Texas restaurant to forgo plan to serve lion-meat tacos after threats

WASHINGTON – A restaurant in Arizona has decided to give up its plan to serve lion-meat tacos, and cited safety concerns and following threats from angry protestors as the reason.

Boca Tacos y Tequila, a Tucson Tex-Mex joint had in … Read more »»».

Fonseka loses MP seat appeal as Sri Lankan SC rules court martial legal

COLOMBO – Former Sri Lankan army chief Sarath Fonseka has lost a Supreme Court appeal to retain his parliamentary seat.

Citing the September court martial ruling that found him guilty of corruption in defence deals, the …. Source  : Fonseka loses MP seat appeal as Sri Lankan SC rules court martial legal.

Chinese gay rights defender to sue newspaper for reporting male couple wedding

NEW DELHI – A gay rights defender in China has vowed to sue a Beijing newspaper after it reported the “wedding” of a male couple without their permission.

According to Xinhua, the gay rights defender, Xiao Dong, said that the Beijing Times reporter was unethical in … Original article on : Chinese gay rights defender to sue newspaper for reporting male couple wedding.

UK to outline changes in controversial terrorism laws

LONDON – The British Government is to outline a controversial reform of control orders for terrorism suspects, following a review of security laws.

Home Secretary Theresa May is expected to announce significant changes, and coalition ally – the Liberal Democrats – … Read more »».

Baroness Ashton’s plunging neckline covered up by Iranian media

LONDON – EU foreign minister Baroness Ashton’s plunging neckline was covered up by Iranian censors in newspapers that reported top-level talks over Iran’s nuclear programme.

While newspapers carried reports of the talk, held in Istanbul, which ended in impasse, the picture showing Baroness Ashton, 54, wearing a low-cut …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Baroness Ashton’s plunging neckline covered up by Iranian media.

Army’s Dare Devils display spell-binding two-wheeler stunts

NEW DELHI – Over 100 Indian Army signalmen displayed breathtaking daredevilry on their well-tuned motorcycles on the capital’s main thoroughfare, raising the adrenaline flow of thousands watching the Republic Day parade Wednesday.

The men from the Corps of Signals, in keeping with their motto of being swift and vigilant, displayed a series of stunning …. Source  : Army’s Dare Devils display spell-binding two-wheeler stunts.

Malaysia urged to speed up changes to Internal Security Act

PETALING JAYA – Malaysia should expedite its amendments to the Internal Security Act (ISA) and other laws that are considered restrictive, says Human Rights Watch in its latest report.

The New York-based international non-governmental organization that conducts research and advocacy on human rights, said in its World Report 2011 released on Monday that there were restrictions … Original article on : Malaysia urged to speed up changes to Internal Security Act.

5 in 10 Americans see healthcare reform unfavorably

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration’s healthcare reforms has attracted an unfavorable response from at least five in ten Americans, according to a joint survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation and the Harvard School of Public Health.

Opposition to the law jumped nine percentage points from last month and is the highest since April, when Kaiser … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 5 in 10 Americans see healthcare reform unfavorably.

Malaysian Sikh sets record for longest stint as TV news presenter

KUALA LUMPUR – A Malaysian Sikh has set a new record as the ‘longest serving television news presenter’ after working 38-years with RTM.

Harjit Singh Hullon, 57, who said that it has always been his dream to appear on television, was awarded the title by the Malaysia Book of Records on January 25.

“Ever since the first …. Original article  : Malaysian Sikh sets record for longest stint as TV news presenter.

US will not relent or waver, but ‘defeat’ al Qaeda and affiliates: Obama

WASHINGTON – The United States will relentlessly fight the ongoing war against terrorism until it defeats al Qaeda and their affiliates, President Barack Obama has said.

“We have sent a message from the Afghan border to the Arabian Peninsula to all parts of the globe: we will not relent, we will not waver, and we will … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US will not relent or waver, but ‘defeat’ al Qaeda and affiliates: Obama.

American optimism surges to nearly a four-year high

WASHINGTON – American optimism has surged to nearly a four-year high – jumping 14 points in the past month alone, a poll released Tuesday suggests.

Forty-three percent of Americans surveyed by CNN/Opinion Research Corporation this weekend said they think things are going well in the country, up from 29 percent in December, Politico reports.

Five percent said …. Original source  : American optimism surges to nearly a four-year high.

Australians warned not to travel to terror risk Ethiopia

CANBERRA – The Australian Foreign Ministry has warned the country’s citizens to reconsider their need to travel to Ethiopia, East Africa, in the wake of reports of a possible terrorist attack.

“According to credible information, extremists are planning to bomb unspecified locations within Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, during the African Union Summit,” the Sydney Morning Herald quoted …. Original source  : Australians warned not to travel to terror risk Ethiopia.

Moscow airport bombers were part of suicide squad trained in Pakistan: Report

MOSCOW – The suicide bombers who carried out the Moscow airport attack were probably part of a suicide squad trained in Pakistan’s al-Qaeda strongholds.

A newspaper close to Russia’s FSB security service published what it claimed was a warning issued in December to the Moscow police, which said there was credible intelligence that a suicide squad …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Gujarat observes 10th anniversary of 2001 earthquake

BHUJ – As the nation celebrates its 62nd Republic Day on Wednesday, people here observed the 10th anniversary of the 2001 Gujarat earthquake that killed around 30,000 people.

The city has, however, witnessed rapid development in these ten years. New building, shopping malls, apartments have been constructed in the city.

Hospitals and schools have been developed and … Read more >>.

NATO to begin ‘new phase of campaign’ in Afghanistan after 2014 transition: Official

HELSINKI – A senior NATO official has claimed his organisation and the countries taking part in operations in Afghanistan would not leave the country even after handing over security responsibilities to Afghan forces in 2014.

NATO’s Senior Civilian Representative in Afghanistan Mark Sedwill made the remarks at a joint press conference with Finnish Foreign Minister … Original source on Gaea Times at : NATO to begin ‘new phase of campaign’ in Afghanistan after 2014 transition: Official.

Queen’s fax to guests: Keep April 29 free for Royal wedding

LONDON – Those who have been invited to Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding have received a fax from the Queen, instructing them to keep themselves free on 29th April this year.

A St James’s Palace aide said, “The Lord Chamberlain’s Office does give a heads-up to royal families first, in line with protocol,” reports the …. Original article  : Queen’s fax to guests: Keep April 29 free for Royal wedding.

UK’s MI6 prepared Palestine Authority’s security strategy against Israel

LONDON – The Palestinian Authority’s security strategy to crush Hamas and other armed groups on the West Bank was originally drawn up by Britain’s intelligence service, MI6, papers leaked by Al-Jazeera TV reveal.

According to The Guardian, the MI6 strategy included internment of leaders and activists, closure of radio stations and replacement of imams in mosques … Read more : UK’s MI6 prepared Palestine Authority’s security strategy against Israel.

IAF combat planes set capital’s skies ablaze

NEW DELHI – Indian Air Force (IAF) front line fighter jets, including Russian-origin Sukhois and MiG-29s and Anglo-French Jaguars, Wednesday set the capital’s skies ablaze with their flying display during the Republic Day parade here.

The star attraction at the 28-aircraft flying display was the Sukhoi air superiority fighter jets — the most potent … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : IAF combat planes set capital’s skies ablaze.

Obama’s three State of the Union decent jokes

WASHINGTON – In a mostly serious State of the Union speech, US President Barack Obama managed to make three pretty funny jokes. Here they are, in order:

On new technology: “Within 25 years, our goal is to give 80 percent of Americans access to high-speed rail, which could allow you go places in half the …. Source  : Obama’s three State of the Union decent jokes.

India unveils LCA at R-Day parade

NEW DELHI – India Wednesday unveiled for the first time at its Republic Day parade its indigenous Light Combat Aircraft that obtained its initial operational clearance to be fully airworthy Jan 10 this year.

The aircraft’s trainer version, which has two-seat tandem configuration, is derived from the fighter version that the Defence Research and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : India unveils LCA at R-Day parade.

Women in Maoist-affected Bihar village form cooperatives

BARORAH – Women in Barorah village, one of the Maoist-affected areas of Bihar have formed cooperatives to earn their livelihood.

Women of the village formed 156 small groups and collected money with which they opened a bank account and started their business.

“We thought that we are staying in shanty huts why not make a group and … Original source on Gaea Times at : Women in Maoist-affected Bihar village form cooperatives.

Parliament paralysed: Ruling party, opposition must end impasse- Corrected

NEW DELHI – Over six decades after Independence, the Parliament in India is lying completely paralysed and no one knows as of now, how to end the deadlock between the government and the opposition.

Parliament is supposed to meet on February 21 for approving the annual budget to enable the government to meet national expenditures, but … Original article on : Parliament paralysed: Ruling party, opposition must end impasse- Corrected.

Oz PM slaps levy on taxpayers to pay for 5.6 billion dollar flood bill

MELBOURNE – Australian taxpayers earning over 50,000 dollars a year will be hit with a new levy to help pay the estimated 5.6 billion dollar bill for flood devastation in the country.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard announced that the tax would apply to Australians on above-average incomes from July and would raise …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Parents who share caregiving for their kids ‘experience more conflict’

WASHINGTON – A new study has found that parents who share caregiving for their preschool children may experience more conflict than those in which the mother is the primary caregiver.

Researchers found that couples had a stronger, more supportive co-parenting relationship when the father spent more time playing with their child.

But when the father participated …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Parents who share caregiving for their kids ‘experience more conflict’.

New Zealand’s Pike River miners died within minutes of first blast: Chief Coroner

GREYMOUTH – Chief Coroner Neil MacLean has closed the inquest into New Zealand’s Pike River Coal mine deaths, saying that he believes the 29 miners died soon after the first blast.

According to Stuff.co.nz, MacLean said evidence showed that the men could not have survived the first blast on November 19.

MacLean said that the deaths occurred … Read more : New Zealand’s Pike River miners died within minutes of first blast: Chief Coroner.

Melbourne playing host to history’s richest poker tournament

MELBOURNE – The Australian city of Melbourne, and not Las Vegas or the Caribbean, is playing host to the world and history’s richest poker tournament.

Boasting some of the world’s top players, the Aussie Millions “Super High Roller” event costs a staggering 250,000 Australian dollars to buy in, news.com.au reports

The event saw 20 players take their …. Original source  : Melbourne playing host to history’s richest poker tournament.

Two new Indian tunes at Beating Retreat this year

NEW DELHI – Two new Indian compositions will Saturday enthrall guests at this year\’s Beating Retreat ceremony here marking the end of the 62nd Republic Day festivities.

To be played by the army\’s martial band, the two new tunes will form part of the mostly Indian compositions at the colourful ceremony in Vijay Chowk where President … Read more »».

HRCP concerned over ‘abduction of Hindus, extra-judicial killings’ in Balochistan

QUETTA – The Balochistan chapter of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed its deep concern over lawlessness, increasing incidents of abduction of Hindus, recovery of mutilated bodies and death and destruction in the province.

“The situation is going from bad to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : HRCP concerned over ‘abduction of Hindus, extra-judicial killings’ in Balochistan.

US court finds ‘mentally impaired’ Stanford ‘incompetent’ to face trial in fraud case

HOUSTON – The upcoming trial of former Texas billionaire Allen Stanford, accused of fleecing investors out of seven billion dollars in a pyramid scheme, has been delayed after a federal judge declared that he is mentally incompetent to go forward with his case.

According to … Read more >>>.

Nelson Mandela hospitalized for ‘routine tests’

LONDON – South Africa’s former president Nelson Mandela was admitted to hospital on Wednesday for ‘routine tests’.

The Nelson Mandela Foundation confirmed the 92-year-old’s admission to the private Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg after his grandchildren were spotted … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nelson Mandela hospitalized for ‘routine tests’.

Bristol Palin offered job on Phoenix Radio Show

WASHINGTON – Bristol Palin is apparently considering a radio gig co-hosting the morning show on Phoenix radio station Mix 96.9.

According to reports, the station approached Palin in early January, and she met with station management on Friday and showed …. Source article  : Bristol Palin offered job on Phoenix Radio Show.

Only 44pc trust government in India

NEVADA – In India only 44 percent trust government, according to the 2011 Edelman Trust Barometer findings.

Seventy percent in India trust business to do what is right, while only 44 trust government to do what is right, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Only 44pc trust government in India.

US lawmaker proposes to castrate sex offenders to save state money

NEW YORK – A member of the Senate of Virginia, US, has proposed a bill to castrate sex offenders instead of confining them to costly state treatment programs.

Republican State Sen. Emmett Hanger’s bill would have state agencies study …. Original article  : US lawmaker proposes to castrate sex offenders to save state money.

Wild Animal Menace Triggers Aerial Shooting

AUSTIN (GaeaTimes.com)- To tackle the growing menace of feral wild hogs at the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge near Austin, helicopter shooting has been planned by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. For several years the staff at the refuge has tried controlling the population of wild pigs by killing as well as trapping them … Read more »».

UK security could be compromised if RAF’s Nimrod fleet is scrapped

LONDON – Leading British militayr figures have warned that the David Cameron Government faces a huge security risk if it decides to go ahead with plans to scrap the Royal Air Force’s (RAF’s) four billion pound Nimrod surveillance aircraft fleet.

They said that Britain could … Original article on : UK security could be compromised if RAF’s Nimrod fleet is scrapped.

Chinese man jailed for 8 years illegally exporting US military equipment

WASHINGTON – A US court has sent a Chinese man to jail for eight years for illegally exporting military electronics components to a China.

Zhen Zhou Wu, 46, is said to have made multiple visits to the United States to buy components used in radars …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Chinese man jailed for 8 years illegally exporting US military equipment.

Jaunpur school principal sets herself afire alleging sexual harassment

JAUNPUR – A school principal set herself on fire outside the residence of the school manager in Shahganj locality of Uttar Pradesh’s Jaunpur city on Thursday, accusing him of sexually harassing her.

The condition of the woman, who is being treated for multiple burn …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ex-Governor Romney edging closer to announcing White House bid

NEW YORK – Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney is moving closer to another run for the White House, saying on Wednesday night that he is “looking at dates” to announce a decision.

“We’re looking at different dates for making that decision,” he told Sean Hannity on Fox News.

According to Politico, it is widely assumed that Romney … Original article on : Ex-Governor Romney edging closer to announcing White House bid.

Scottish man with Robinson Crusoe author’s name rescued from island

LONDON – A Scottish man, who goes by the same name as the author of Robinson Crusoe, was recently rescued from a remote island in Scotland after he and his female partner were left stranded by rising tides.

‘Robinson Crusoe’ is a 1719 novel by acclaimed author Daniel Defoe about a man who spends 28 years … Read more »»».

Palestinian negotiator rejects claims of back door deals with Israel

LONDON – The Palestine Liberation Organization’s chief negotiator, Saeb Erekat, has described the leak of confidential memos documenting a decade of Middle East peace talks as a “slander campaign”.

He also insisted that no single concession will be agreed without a comprehensive agreement with Israel, whose colonisation of Palestinian land is the “only constant”.

Writing in The …. Original article  : Palestinian negotiator rejects claims of back door deals with Israel.

Third-grader in US finds sexually explicit book in school library

WASHINGTON – A third-grader in the US got more information than he bargained for when he picked up a sexually explicit book from his school library.

Calvin McHenry had checked out the graphic novel called ‘Tank Girl One’ from Hebron Heights Elementary …. Source article  : Third-grader in US finds sexually explicit book in school library.

Brazilian man arrested for locking wife in cellar for 16-yrs

LONDON – A Brazilian man has been arrested after he allegedly locked his wife up in a cellar for 16 years.

A police inspector in the city of Sorocaba said Joao Batista Groppo, 64, was arrested after his wife of 40 years was found locked in a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Brazilian man arrested for locking wife in cellar for 16-yrs.

CBI opposes bail plea of nine accused in 2006 Malegaon blasts

MUMBAI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) opposed the bail plea of the nine accused in the 2006 Malegaon blasts in a special Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) court here on Friday.

The Anti-Terror Squad and CBI both filed their replies in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : CBI opposes bail plea of nine accused in 2006 Malegaon blasts.

Jackie Kennedy’s ‘JFK assassination day’ pillbox hat missing

WASHINGTON – Jackie Kennedy was dressed in a pink wool boucle suit and matching pillbox hat the day her husband was assassinated, and though the suit is now stored at the National Archives and Records Administration’s complex, the pillbox hat is missing.

According to the LA times, Kennedy historians were surprised … Original article on : Jackie Kennedy’s ‘JFK assassination day’ pillbox hat missing.

Bed warmers, pigeon chasers are some of world’s strangest hotel jobs

MELBOURNE – A look at the quirky jobs offered by leading hotels worldwide has revealed that now they also employ people to work as bed warmers, pigeon chasers, and even bedtime storytellers.

The list, compiled by Hotels.com, revealed the Holiday Inn Kensington … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Bed warmers, pigeon chasers are some of world’s strangest hotel jobs.

Malaysian men hire themselves out as husbands

KUALA LUMPUR – Many Malaysian men have been busted for hiring themselves out as husbands to foreign women who need a pass to remain in the country.

It appears the men, who are usually middle-aged, agree to the sham marriage for monetary gains.

“We get suspicious when a … Read more : Malaysian men hire themselves out as husbands.

Experts rejected study that say microcredit helped Bangladeshi families raise their incomes

DHAKA – Experts have rejected a US-based Microcredit Summit Campaign study that claims that work by the Grameen Bank and other institutions involved with microcredit, helped many Bangladeshi families to raise their incomes above 1.25 dollars a day.

The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Experts rejected study that say microcredit helped Bangladeshi families raise their incomes.

Pakistan threatens to undertake nuke arms race over India’s NSG membership bid

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has threatened to activate a new nuclear arms race in South Asia after the United States supported a move that Islamabad claims will allow India to further expand its weapons programme.

Islamabad believes that Washington’s decision to … Read more >>.

Over half of Brit mums feel they don’t spend enough time with their kids

LONDON – A new study has found that over 50 per cent of British mothers struggle to find quality time to amuse the children due to busy lives and hectic work schedules.

The majority admitted that they could do better at a string of other everyday parental tasks …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Over half of Brit mums feel they don’t spend enough time with their kids.

Salesman in dock after woman claims yogurt sample tasted of semen

MELBOURNE – A supermarket worker in the US has been accused by a woman of handing out a yogurt sample contaminated with semen.

Detectives said that the woman, who was shopping at Sunflower Market on Corrales Rd and Alameda, tried a free yogurt sample, but when …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Salesman in dock after woman claims yogurt sample tasted of semen.

India Model of growth, responsibility gaining recognition, appreciation: US official

NEW YORK – A senior official of the Obama Administration has said the India Model of widening its economic and strategic interests in a changing global scenario in the 21st century, is gaining growing recognition and appreciation.

Addressing a gathering at Syracruse University here, Robert …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : India Model of growth, responsibility gaining recognition, appreciation: US official.

Former journalist Jay Carney to take over from Robert Gibbs as White House press secretary

WASHINGTON – The US Vice-President’s Communications Director Jay Carney is all set to replace Robert Gibbs as the next White House press secretary.

The BBC quoted Gibbs as saying in an email, that the handover would take place in the next few weeks, adding …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Former journalist Jay Carney to take over from Robert Gibbs as White House press secretary.

Iranian book eulogizing Islamic suicide bombers, militants found in Arizona desert

WASHINGTON – A book published in Iran containing short biographies of Islamic suicide bombers and other Islamic militants who died carrying out attacks has been reportedly discovered in the Arizona desert, just north of the U.S.-Mexican border.

Fox New quoted US authorities … Read more >>>.

Spark for Arab revolutions started during Bush era: Experts

WASHINGTON – The spark for the current wave of revolutions in the Middle East may have started during the Bush administration when Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice gave a seminal speech at the American University in Cairo, say experts and analysts.

They said that in her [..] Read the original article: here.

Egypt Internet Services Down

CAIRO, EGYPT (GaeaTimes.com)- In an unprecedented and unexpected development the Internet traffic from and to Egypt has been blocked and the incident has sent sensations across global media. As a result the country with a population of over 80 million people cannot contact the rest of the world now. Only one web service provider …. Read the original article  : here.

Beating Retreat Ceremony To Kick Off

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Beating Retreat Ceremony, is all set to take place in New Delhi on Saturday. This ceremony would conclude the Republic Day celebrations for this year. Wing Commander Jaychandran would be the chief conducting officer for the event and it would be organized by the Indian Air Force.
The Beating Retreat [..] Read the original article: here.

US now sees India as partner not a target: US scholar

WASHINGTON – The US moves this week lifting export controls on Indian defence and space organisations indicate how much the US view has changed about India and its strategic weapons capabilities, says a US expert.

President Barack Obama’s nod to India’s membership in the four major international non-proliferation groupings – Nuclear Suppliers Group, Missile Technology … Read : US now sees India as partner not a target: US scholar.

US-India collaboration in key human security areas will enhance agri value chain

NEW YORK – A senior official of the Obama administration has said that collaboration between the United States and India in key human security areas will enhance the agricultural value chain and strengthen market institutions to reduce post-harvest crop losses.

“Enhancing food security in India is vital to continuing India’s globalizing trends and sustaining our … Read more : US-India collaboration in key human security areas will enhance agri value chain.

Kiwi actor lands lead role in film about Wills-Kate marriage

WELLINGTON – A little-known New Zealand actor has bagged the lead role in a film about Prince William and Kate Middleton’s marriage.

Nico Evers-Swindell, a former Victoria University of Wellington student and the cousin of rowing champs Georgina and Caroline Evers-Swindell, will play the Prince.

American television network Lifetime was in the preparation stages of creating a … Read more »»».

Building collapses in Ahmedabad, two killed

AHMEDABAD – Two people were killed and at least fifteen people are feared trapped in the debris following the collapse of a five storied under construction building in Kalupur area of Ahmedabad this morning.

Sudden collapse of the building had also damaged several nearby residential buildings.

Relief and rescue operations have already been started and about …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

African country ‘bans’ flatulence!

LONDON – A law that will literally knock the wind out of anyone has been declared in Malawi.

The government in Malawi has said that it will punish offenders who “pollute the air” – a move intended to make citizens “responsible and disciplined.”

Critics, [..] Read the original article: here.

Both Nevada Senate and Assembly in USA to open with Hindu prayers

NEVADA – Nevada State Senate and Nevada Assembly will open with ancient Hindu prayers on February 14 and 15 respectively in Carson City.

Distinguished Hindu statesman Rajan Zed will recite from Rig-Veda, the oldest scripture of the world still in common use, …. Original source  : Both Nevada Senate and Assembly in USA to open with Hindu prayers.

Prestigious Catholic school in New York showcases Diwali

NEVADA – In a remarkable interfaith gesture, Marymount School of New York (USA), a Catholic institution, organized Diwali demonstration.

It reportedly included lighting of diyas and the girls learned how to wrap a sari. Each girl of Class One was presented with her own sari to …. Read the original article  : Prestigious Catholic school in New York showcases Diwali.

Brit council staff told to clock-out for non-work conversations

LONDON – Council workers in Carlisle, Britain have been told they would have to clock-out if they wish to conduct non-work conversations about the weather, holidays or babies.

Two team leaders in the city’s benefits department sent an e-mail, detailing the changes, to 31 workers, and it … Read : Brit council staff told to clock-out for non-work conversations.

Prince Charles pays tribute to Gurkha soldiers’ courage and bravery in Afghan war

WASHINGTON – Prince Charles has paid tribute to the Gurkha soldiers who lost their lives while fighting in Afghanistan, and also presented medals to the critically injured ones during their combat operations in that country.

Charles presented campaign medals to members of 1st …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Racism’ against African-American Obama behind Democrats’ defeat in mid-term polls: Moran

WASHINGTON – Virginia Democratic Representative Jim Moran has linked the current political environment to the American Civil War, and added that his party lost out in last year’s mid-term polls because voters “don’t want to be governed by an African-American.”

“It …. Original article  : ‘Racism’ against African-American Obama behind Democrats’ defeat in mid-term polls: Moran.

Kiwi man fined $1K for filming best friend’s girlfriend in shower

WELLINGTON – A man in New Zealand, who filmed his best friend’s girlfriend while she was showering, has escaped being jailed and was instead ordered to pay her 1000 dollars in reparation.

Greg Alan Holland, 26, from Christchurch, had on December 27 last year and January 9 this year … Read more »»».

Taliban maybe ready for peace talks

LONDON – Senior Taliban commanders could be preparing to enter peace talks to end their insurgency in Afghanistan, it has been revealed.

According to the Daily Express, Afghan president Hamid Karzai has offered to hold reconciliation talks with Taliban fighters, … Read more >>.

CBI registers case in Adarsh housing scam

MUMBAI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Saturday registered a case against some retired Army officials and bureaucrats of Maharashtra Government in connection with the controversial Adarsh Housing Society scam in Mumbai.

The developments came after the Bombay High Court pulled up the CBI last week for its low investigation into the case. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : CBI registers case in Adarsh housing scam.

Gulliver’s Travels author ‘used baby language in love letters’

LONDON – The language Jonathan Swift, the author of Gulliver’s Travels, used in a series of letters to two women reflects the way babies talk, suggests a new research.

Dr Abigail Williams – of St Peter’s, Oxford University – has studied the early 18th Century correspondence.

Williams claimed that the only way to understand Swift’s letters was … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gulliver’s Travels author ‘used baby language in love letters’.

Condom firm cashes in on royal wedding

LONDON – A company selling royal wedding condoms has been slammed for making money out of the big day.

Crown Jewels Condoms of Distinction have been branded ‘tasteless’ by royal commentators.

The souvenir sheaths are sold in royal purple packs of three with a picture of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

Blurb on the box urges users to …. Original article  : Condom firm cashes in on royal wedding.

Bristol Palin won’t give a speech at Washington University’s Sex Week

WASHINGTON – Bristol Palin has been dropped from her planned speaking engagement at Washington University.

The former Dancing WIth the Stars finalist, 20, who became pregnant with now two-year-old son Tripp at age 17, was invited by the Student Health Advisory Committee to talk about abstinence during the St. Louis university’s Sexual Responsibility Week, reports Fox …. Read the original article  : here.

BSF seizes heroin worth 200 million dollars in Ferozepur

FEROZEPUR – Paramilitary Border Security Force (BSF) personnel have confirmed seizing four kilograms of heroin worth 200 million dollars in the international market.

Rajesh Gupta, Deputy Inspector General of (DIG) of the Border Security Force in Ferozepur, said his team noticed some movement with the help of night vision devices, and launched a search operation, during …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : BSF seizes heroin worth 200 million dollars in Ferozepur.

Seven persons injured in remote-controlled bomb blast in Quetta

QUETTA – At least seven persons, including three policemen, were wounded in a bomb explosion in the Pakistani city of Quetta on Saturday.

The blast, which took place at a time when a police van was passing from Alamdar Road in Quetta, partially damaged the police van and some nearby buildings.

The bomb, which was planted in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Seven persons injured in remote-controlled bomb blast in Quetta.

UK man with 578 convictions never jailed by criminal justice system

LONDON – A man in Britain, who has been convicted 578 times, has never seen the inside of a prison because the criminal justice system did not think it was required for him to be jailed for his crimes.

The serial offender has a 50-year record of crime, and he is one of thousands given community …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : UK man with 578 convictions never jailed by criminal justice system.

‘Sex and the City’ author shading new book with glimpses of India

NEW DELHI – Celebrated writer-columnist Candace Bushnell, known for her iconic society column “Sex and the City” which was serialised into the hit HBO tele-drama, is including a slice of India in her new book.

“I have just started writing it. One of the characters, an actress, comes to India and may be she …. Read the original article  : ‘Sex and the City’ author shading new book with glimpses of India.

‘Black money should be brought back’: Rahul Gandhi

AURANGABAD – Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi on Saturday demanded strict action against those involved in the black money controversy, and said the nation needs to ensure that people’s money remains in India itself.

“We should put in as much effort as possible to ensure that what is India’s money, what is people’s money, comes [..] Read the original article: here.

Haryana villagers evacuated after chlorine gas leak

HIRAPUR – The Haryana administration on Saturday evacuated people from two villages after they detected a chlorine gas leak at a nearby factory.

Residents of Hirapur village said the gas leak began on Friday, but the local administration only reacted after the gas spread to the neighbouring village of Naryala, and when people complained of breathing …. Source  : Haryana villagers evacuated after chlorine gas leak.

Brit women ‘care about their looks more than health’

LONDON – It seems British women are more concerned with their appearance than their health.

A new study has revealed that women in UK spend more money on their looks than they do on their health.

The findings are based on a survey of 3,000 women aged between 18 and 65 who were quizzed on their spending … Original source on Gaea Times at : Brit women ‘care about their looks more than health’.

Husband charged with murder of ‘Indian-origin woman’ in New Zealand

AUCKLAND – The husband of Ranjeeta Sharma, the Indian-origin woman who was burnt alive on the side of a Waikato road in Auckland, New Zealand, has been charged with her murder in the Hamilton District Court.

Fiji police had taken Diwesh Kumar Sharma, the victim’s husband, into custody earlier this week and he returned to … Read more : Husband charged with murder of ‘Indian-origin woman’ in New Zealand.

Three NATO tankers attacked in Pakistan

KARACHI – Some unidentified gunmen opened fire on three NATO tankers in Wadh area of Balochistan’s Khuzdar District Sunday.

Two of the tankers caught fire while the third fell off the bridge, the daily Dawn reported Sunday.
According to police sources, the tankers were going to Quetta from Karachi, when unidentified motorcyclists opened …. Original source  : Three NATO tankers attacked in Pakistan.

Biometric scanners flooding Oz pub market as fix-all solution to violence

SYDNEY – Many Australian pubs have started using biometric scanners as a way to avoid troublemakers.

Thousands of clubbers and pub patrons are being forced to submit to fingerprint and photographic scans to enter popular venues, reports the Sydney Morning Herald.

At the Coogee Bay Hotel, patrons not only queue for fingerprint scans, but may then …. Source  : Biometric scanners flooding Oz pub market as fix-all solution to violence.

Brit man who had sex with horse escapes jail

LONDON – A Brit man, who admitted that he had sex with a horse, has escaped jail.

26-year-old Derek Woods was caught after police rigged up a paddock with secret cameras and alarms 10 months after he first interfered with the horse called Amber, reports the Telegraph.

Police … Read : Brit man who had sex with horse escapes jail.

$5k Las Vegas burger that will take quite a bite out of your wallet!

NEVADA – A new burger available in Las Vegas costs a whopping 5,000 dollars.

The burger from Fleur chef Hubert Keller is available at Mandalay Bay, reports KTNV.

The foie gras and black truffle topped Kobe burger comes on a brioche truffle bun, and is garnished with a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : $5k Las Vegas burger that will take quite a bite out of your wallet!.

Oz sending back ‘medically unfit’ Bangladeshi girl will be like ‘issuing death sentence’: Lawyer

CANBERRA – The lawyer of a nine year-old Bangladeshi girl, who is receiving life-saving medical treatment but could be home along with her family after their visa expires tomorrow, has said that forcing the girl to go back home would be similar to issuing a death …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Oz sending back ‘medically unfit’ Bangladeshi girl will be like ‘issuing death sentence’: Lawyer.

Cairo, Washington military relations face tests amid unrest in Egypt

WASHINGTON – In the wake of the current unrest in the country, Egyptian military that is built with billions of dollars in American technology and training, is facing the biggest test in decades, allowing US officials to … Read more »».

Three Asians jailed for forcing women into prostitution in Oman

MUSCAT – Three Asian expatriates have been sentenced to 15 years in jail each for forcing women, recruited as housemaids, into prostitution in Oman.

According to Oman’s Public Prosecution Department, the Muscat Criminal Court also fined the three accused 50,000 Omani …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Three Asians jailed for forcing women into prostitution in Oman.

Gujjars demand special census for nomadic tribes of J-K

JAMMU – Demanding a special census for lakhs of nomadic and semi-nomadic of Jammu and Kashmir, the Gujjar- Bakerwals today expressed distress over the exclusion of nomads during house listing and preparation of National Population Register in … Read more : Gujjars demand special census for nomadic tribes of J-K.

Indian Navy scouts for amphibious warfare craft

NEW DELHI – The Indian Navy is scouting for a mechanised craft to enable troop landings on beaches to augment its amphibious warfare capability. The navy intends to order 10 such craft.

The navy has issued a request for information to global ship-builders to know if they can deliver the craft to India within … Read more »»».

IAF, ITBP adjudged best contingents at Republic Day parade

NEW DELHI – The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) were Sunday adjudged the best marching contingents at the 62nd Republic Day parade at Rajpath here.

The defence ministry announced the awards, in which the IAF and ITBP came on the top of the tri-services and paramilitary marching contingents respectively. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Egyptians form vigilante groups to protect properties from looters

CAIRO – A huge number of Egyptians have reportedly joined local vigilante groups to protect their neighbourhoods from robbers amid claims that rich elites are fleeing to Dubai.

Gangs of looters have disrupted lives of people amid huge tension across the country, but it is not clear who is behind the crime. Egyptians armed with guns, … Original article on : Egyptians form vigilante groups to protect properties from looters.

Climber found reading map after surviving 1000ft fall

LONDON – A climber from Glasgow, who fell 1,000ft down a mountain, not just survived but was found by his rescuers standing up reading a map.

The 35-year-old lost his footing at the summit of Sgurr Choinnich Mor near Ben Nevis in the Highlands and plummeted down the near-vertical eastern slope, reports the BBC.

“It seemed impossible… … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Climber found reading map after surviving 1000ft fall.

Indian kindergartener, 4, raped in Dubai may have been drugged

DUBAI – The four-year-old girl of Indian-origin, who was apparently raped by her school bus driver and two conductors in Dubai, had been regularly returning home drowsy from school since at least a month before the alleged incident, according to her parents

“My daughter used to regularly return home in the school bus looking drowsy. That …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indian kindergartener, 4, raped in Dubai may have been drugged.

CBI raids across country in Adarsh Society scam

MUMBAI – A day after registering an FIR in the Adarsh Housing Society scam, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday is carrying out raids across the country in connection with the scam.

The raids are being conducted across Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, and Patna, at the premises of three main conspirators in the FIR – … Read this article on Gaea Times at : CBI raids across country in Adarsh Society scam.

Karachi police arrests student on blasphemy allegations

KARACHI – The Karachi police has registered a blasphemy case against a student for writing derogatory remarks against Prophet.

The police said Muhammad Samiullah, an intermediate student, was arrested on January 28, 2011 on the complaint of the Chief Controller Intermediate Board, who accused him of writing derogatory remarks in his answer sheets against Prophet Muhammad.

He …. Original source  : Karachi police arrests student on blasphemy allegations.

Pennsylvania’s ‘Jihad Jane’ to ‘plead guilty’ to four terror charges

HARRISBURG – A Pennsylvania woman, nicknamed ‘Jihad Jane,’ would reportedly change her earlier plea of ‘not guilty’ to four terror conspiracy charges.

The New York Post quoted Colleen LaRose’s attorney as saying that she would change her plea to ‘guilty’ of conspiring to support terrorists and kill a person in a foreign country.

Forty-seven-year-old LaRose was … Read more : Pennsylvania’s ‘Jihad Jane’ to ‘plead guilty’ to four terror charges.

Air Force adjudged best marching contingent in Republic Day Parade

NEW DELHI – The Indian Air Force has won the best marching contingent award amongst the three Services at this year’s Republic Day Parade while the Indo Tibetan Border Police has been adjudged the best amongst the paramilitary and other auxiliary marching contingents.

The tableau from the state of Delhi, with the theme of cultural …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Missing socks cost each household ???240 a year: UK study

LONDON – A Brit survey has found that missing socks are costing each household a staggering 240 pounds a year.

A family of four loses an average of 60 every year, and 82 per cent of young men say they wear odd socks at least once a week as a result.

And it’s not just cheap everyday … Original source on Gaea Times at : Missing socks cost each household ???240 a year: UK study.

Karmapa money trail: Police detain hotelier in Dharamsala

DHARAMSALA – Himachal Police have detained a hotelier named K P Bharadwaj allegedly involved in Karmapa Lama money trail.

Meanwhile, a team of Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and Intelligence Bureau (IB) was sent from Delhi to Dharamsala for the second round of questioning of Karmapa for his alleged Chinese links.

Earlier, two of Karmapa’s accountants were … Read more : Karmapa money trail: Police detain hotelier in Dharamsala.

Weavers deserve special package, says Salman Khurshid

VARANASI – Union Water Resources Minister Salman Khurshid has said that the dues of weavers should be waived off on the line of farmers.

Addressing a weavers’ convention organised by the Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee here on Saturday, Khurshid said that a package should be finalised in this regard.

“The issue of waiving electricity bill …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Weavers deserve special package, says Salman Khurshid.

Great Wolf Lodge

LOS ANGELES, (GaeaTimes.com)- With Valentine’s Day drawing near, people are scrambling over the web to chunk out detailed information for where to celebrate the fun loving day. Niagara Falls which has been a hot spot for the couples over the years is definitely a place worth going to. And adding icing on the … Read : Great Wolf Lodge.

Gilani declines to comment on US ‘diplomat’s’ arrest

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has declined to comment on the arrest of American citizen Raymond Davis, who is charged with killing two Pakistani men in Lahore, saying that the matter was being probed by regional authorities.

Davis, a …. Read the original article  : here.

‘Bold steps’ by Pak govt. might help in Aafia Siddiqui’s release, says sister

KARACHI – The sister of Pakistani neuroscientist Aafia Siddiqui, who was sentenced to 86 years in prison by a US federal court, has said that strong efforts by the Pakistan government might help in getting her released.

“Despite all the differences between Pakistan …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Bold steps’ by Pak govt. might help in Aafia Siddiqui’s release, says sister.

Nicolas Sarkozy to force French kids to learn English from age three

LONDON – President of France Nicolas Sarkozy has proposed a bill that would force the youth of the country to learn the English language from the early age of three.

Sarkozy, 56, who recently come under fire for his own grasp of the French language, … Read : Nicolas Sarkozy to force French kids to learn English from age three.

Christians-Buddhists-Jews support Hindus upset over depiction of Lord Ganesh as sex act

NEVADA – In a remarkable interfaith gesture, Christians-Buddhists-Jews-others backed upset Hindus demanding apology from NBC, Saturday Night Live (SNL) and actor-comedian Jim Carrey over the portrayal of Lord Ganesh as a sex act.

In a skit on NBC’s SNL (January eight) titled “The Wrath …. Original article  : Christians-Buddhists-Jews support Hindus upset over depiction of Lord Ganesh as sex act.

Larger deployment of forces will prevent pirate attacks: Navy Chief

NEW DELHI – Reacting to the recent arrest of Somali pirates in joint operation led by the Navy, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Nirmal Verma said on Monday that a larger deployment of forces could prevent such attacks.

The Navy and Coast Guard on Friday captured 15 Somalian pirates in …. Source  : Larger deployment of forces will prevent pirate attacks: Navy Chief.

Sonawane killing main accused Shinde dies

MUMBAI – Popat Shinde, the main accused in the murder of Additional District Collector Yashwant Sonawane, died at a hospital here on Monday.

He was admitted to the hospital with serious burn injuries after Sonawane reportedly grabbed him during the attack.

Shinde was one of those, who poured kerosene over … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sonawane killing main accused Shinde dies.

Brit school run by followers of Beatles’ yogi to teach meditation daily

LONDON – A private school in Britain run by followers of the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the spiritualist who taught The Beatles transcendental meditation, is set to daily impart the technique to students.

The Maharishi School in Ormskirk, Lancashire, will be part of …. Read the original article  : Brit school run by followers of Beatles’ yogi to teach meditation daily.

A giant 7-kg baby born in Russia

Moscow, Jan 31 (IANS/RIA Novosti) A baby boy weighing 7.2 kg has born in the Russian town of Khabarovsk.

The newborn and his 33-year-old mother were fine, authorities said. The baby was born last week.
According to statistics, these big babies are a rare event and they are born one in a 1,500.
The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : A giant 7-kg baby born in Russia.

‘I am still the CVC’, says Thomas

NEW DELHI – Central Vigilance Commissioner (CVC) PJ Thomas on Monday refused to resign despite charges of corruption levelled against him when he was in Kerala, saying he was still the CVC and the matter has to be first decided in court.

“I am still the Central Vigilance Commissioner. The matter is …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘I am still the CVC’, says Thomas.

Iran approves Ahmadinejad backed candidate Salehi as Foreign Minister

TEHRAN – Iran’s parliament has reportedly approved President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s choice of Ali Akbar Salehi as the country’s next foreign minister.

Salehi had been in a caretaker role at the foreign ministry after Ahmadinejad abruptly sacked his predecessor Manouchehr Mottaki while he was on a diplomatic mission to Senegal.

The Scotsman …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Iran approves Ahmadinejad backed candidate Salehi as Foreign Minister.

Security lapse behind US army private’s secret cable transfer to WikiLeaks

LONDON – A book has claimed that the US army private, who has been accused of downloading and passing hundreds of thousands of secret documents to WikiLeaks, was able to copy them due to a lapse in security.

Specialist Bradley Manning, 23, who downloaded the material in … Read more »»».

‘Rapidly expanding’ Pak arsenal now possesses over 100 deployed nuke weapons: Expert

WASHINGTON – Pakistan has doubled its nuclear weapons stockpile over the past several years, increasing its arsenal to over 100 deployed weapons, an expert has said.

According to the Washington Post, four years ago, the Pakistani arsenal was estimated at 30 to 60 weapons.

“They … Read more >>>.

Queen’s composer starts campaign against ‘moronic muzak’ in lifts, shops

LONDON – The Queen’s official composer has started campaigning against what he calls ‘moronic muzak’ that plays in lifts, shops and call centres.

Sir Peter Maxwell Davies claimed that piped muzak was an “invasion of privacy” and was killing our capacity to enjoy peace … Original source on Gaea Times at : Queen’s composer starts campaign against ‘moronic muzak’ in lifts, shops.

‘Doves of Peace’ released by Pope refuse to take flight!

LONDON – It was an embarrassing situation when Doves of peace released by Pope Benedict XVI during the weekly Angelus prayer refused to leave the Vatican and flew right in.

Officials were about to catch and re-release only one bird, reports the Telegraph.

Two children from the Catholic Action of Rome accompanied the Pope at the window …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Gays probably suffered from childhood emotional or sexual abuse: GZ mosque imam

NEW YORK – The new imam at the Ground Zero mosque and cultural center has voiced his concern for homosexuals, saying that such people were probably abused in their childhood.

Abdallah Adhami, in a lecture on the Web site of his nonprofit, Sakeenah, said being gay is a “painful trial” caused by past trauma.

“An enormously overwhelming …. Source  : Gays probably suffered from childhood emotional or sexual abuse: GZ mosque imam.

1 in 3 Brits fail to stick to their New Year resolutions

LONDON – A survey has revealed that one in three people fail to stick to their New Year resolutions.

A poll of more than 2,000 people found that 30 per cent shirked their resolutions within the first month of 2010, with seven in ten failing to keep their promises throughout the rest of the year.

The most … Read more >>>.

Locket containing Lord Nelson’s hair sells for 50K pounds!

LONDON – A locket that contains Admiral Lord Nelson’s hair has sold for more than 50,000 pounds.

The locket, dating to the time Nelson had a scandalous affair with Lady Emma Hamilton, has a ‘N’ on the front for Nelson and is inscribed with the date August 1, 1798 – the first day of the Battle … Read more >>.

US will not suspend aid to Haiti over electoral crisis: Hillary Clinton

Port-au-PRINCE – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has denied reports that Washington would suspend aid to Haiti with intention to pressurise that country to accept recommendations made by the Organisation of American States (OAS) to settle the electoral crisis.

On being asked if the Obama Administration is considering suspending aid to Haiti, Clinton said they …. Read the original article  : US will not suspend aid to Haiti over electoral crisis: Hillary Clinton.

Ed Miliband ‘thanks God’ he is not married to mother of his children

LONDON – British Labour Party politician Ed Miliband is said to have allegedly thanked God that he is not married to the mother of his children.

Miliband, 41, had told men’s magazine GQ that he will not be pushed into tying the knot with his partner Justine Thornton, insisting: “She’s not my wife” and apparently adding …. Source  : Ed Miliband ‘thanks God’ he is not married to mother of his children.