Breaking News – Weekly Newsletter for February 1-7, 2011

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.

Freed American female hiker summoned to Iran to stand trial over spying charges

TEHRAN – Sarah Shourd, An American woman who was released last year after spending 14 months in an Iranian jail, has been asked to stand trial in Tehran over spying charges.

Shourd and two American men were arrested by Iranian border guards in the country’s north in July 2009.

The BBC quoted Iran’s judiciary spokesman Gholam … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Freed American female hiker summoned to Iran to stand trial over spying charges.

South Korea rejects North Korea’s call to bring military talks forward

SEOUL – South Korea has rejected a proposal by North Korea to bring forward military talks by 10 days, saying it was not enough time to prepare for their first dialogue since the latter’s shelling of a border island last year.

Pyongyang sent a message to Seoul at the weekend calling for the preliminary talks, … Read more : South Korea rejects North Korea’s call to bring military talks forward.

Libya trade loss fears led British ministers to back Lockerbie bomber’s release: Wikileaks

LONDON – Britain would have suffered a setback in its political and economic ambitions in Libya if the Lockerbie bomber, Abdelbaset al-Megrahi, was not released from a Scottish prison, according to latest revelations by Wikileaks.

“The consequences if Megrahi were to die in prison or if the transfer under the Prisoner Transfer Agreement were denied …. Source  : Libya trade loss fears led British ministers to back Lockerbie bomber’s release: Wikileaks.

US stands by double murder-accused US diplomat’s action as ’self defence’

WASHINGTON – The United States has defended the action of a US diplomat, who shot two persons to death at Mazang Chowk in Lahore last Thursday, saying that he had acted “in self defence when confronted by two armed men on motorcycles”.

“In our view, he acted in self defence when confronted by two armed men … Read more >>.

One killed in NATO oil tanker attack in Pak’s Balochistan province

QUETTA – In the latest attack on convoys in Pakistan carrying supplies for NATO forces in Afghanistan, unidentified men opened indiscriminate fire at a NATO oil tanker in Balochistan’s Mastung district on Tuesday, killing two persons.

According to Levis Force, the tanker was en route to Afghanistan from Karachi when armed assailants opened fire at the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : One killed in NATO oil tanker attack in Pak’s Balochistan province.

Violence levels in northeast lowest in many years: PM

NEW DELHI – The highlight of 2010 was the change in the situation in the northeast with violence at it lowest level in many years, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Tuesday and stressed that the government would respond to any group that desired genuine peace.

“The highlight of the last year has been the change …. Read the original article  : Violence levels in northeast lowest in many years: PM.

Shepherd’s Monument ‘code’ is 19th century graffiti claims Brit historian

LONDON – The eight-letter inscription on the 18th century Shepherd’s Monument in UK has left many baffled, but a British historian has come forward to say that it is nothing more than 19th century graffiti.

The letters OUOSVAVV, framed at either end by DM, on the monument at Shugborough Hall in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Shepherd’s Monument ‘code’ is 19th century graffiti claims Brit historian.

Britain secretly advised Libyan govt. on how to secure Lockerbie bomber’s release: Wikileaks

LONDON – Secret US diplomatic cables released by the whistleblower website ‘Wikileaks’ have revealed that British ministers had secretly suggested ways to the Libyan government for the early and successful release of Lockerbie bomber Abdelbaset al-Megrahi.

The Telegraph quoted the cables as saying that one of UK’s Foreign Office ministers had sent detailed legal advice on … Read more »»».

Naxalism continues to threaten internal security, says Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Tuesday informed Chief Ministers of States that left wing extremism continued to be a major challenge to internal security.

Addressing the Chief Ministers on internal security, he said that a stalemate continued with the affected states unable to make significant inroads, nor have … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Naxalism continues to threaten internal security, says Chidambaram.

India remains “vulnerable” to terrorism, says Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Union Home Minister P Chidambaram on Tuesday said that India remained “vulnerable” to terrorism as new groups were suspected to be behind some terror attacks that took place in recent years.

Addressing the Chief Ministers on internal security here, Chidambaram said:”I must caution you that there is no [..] Read the original article: here.

Chidambaram says India lives in a ‘troubled neighbourhood’

NEW DELHI – Addressing the Chief Ministers Conference here today, Union Home Minister P Chidambaram said that India lived in a troubled neighborhood which made the country face terror and inflow of refugees.

“Some obvious consequences are cross border terrorism, covert support to insurgents, arms smuggling, Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN), inflow of …. Source article  : Chidambaram says India lives in a ‘troubled neighbourhood’.

Last year’s Pakistan floods could have been predicted

WASHINGTON – Catastrophic monsoon rains that swept Pakistan last year could have been predicted days in advance if weather-forecasting data had been shared and processed, according to US researchers.

The study, which used data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (ECMWF), found that the floods could have been predicted 8-10 days beforehand if …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Last year’s Pakistan floods could have been predicted.

Ugandan opposition leader sings praises of ex-dictator Idi Amin

ARUA – A Ugandan opposition leader, Kizza Besigye, has praised the country’s former dictator and despot Idi Amin, saying that the latter had done more for the country than long-serving president Yoweri Museveni.

Besigye, the leader of four-party coalition Inter Party Co-operation, made the remarks at an election rally in Arua, a town in Amin’s West … Read more >>>.

Michelle Obama responds to McQueen dress row

NEW YORK – US First Lady Michelle Obama, who found herself at the centre of a controversy for wearing a British designer’s gown to a recent state dinner, has responded back – ’she just wants to wear what she loves’.

Michelle, no stranger to state occasion elegance, wore a red Alexander McQueen while hosting Chinese President … Original article on : Michelle Obama responds to McQueen dress row.

North-eastern India witnessed in 2010 lowest level of violence in many years

NEW DELHI – Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Tuesday said that there has been a ” dramatic change in the situation in the North East in 2010″ which witnessed the lowest level of violence in many years.

Addressing the Chief Ministers on internal security here, Chidambaram said: “The other challenge to security is the challenge … Original article on : North-eastern India witnessed in 2010 lowest level of violence in many years.

Palin aide rejects media report that she dropped words retreat, reloading from her speech

Reno (California, US), – A key aide of former Alaska Governor and 2008 Republican vice-presidential nominee Sarah Palin has confirmed that the latter did use two controversial phrases – “Don’t retreat, reload” and “Don’t retreat, stand tall” – during a recent speech here.

Though Palin’s speech on Monday night to the Safari Club in Reno was … Read more »».

US boy sets world record with perfect score on Dance Dance Revolution

WASHINGTON – A boy in the US has entered the Guinness World Records 2011 Gamer’s Edition after becoming the youngest person to reach a perfect score on Dance Dance Revolution at the age of 9.

Ryota Wada, 10, was awarded a certificate from Guinness World Records for the feat, and his father, Ted Wada, has …. Read the original article  : here.

Terrified passengers were almost flying across cabin in turbulence hit V Oz flight

CANBERRA – Passengers on a Melbourne-bound V Australia flight were almost flying around the cabin after plane hit unexpected turbulence.

Ambulance crews were called to attend a number of injured passengers after the arrival of flight VA20 from Phuket in Thailand as it landed at Tullamarine at 7.40 this morning, news.com.au reports.

A mother of three … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Terrified passengers were almost flying across cabin in turbulence hit V Oz flight.

Murdered Indian origin woman’s husband in police custody till Feb.28

HAMILTON – The husband of a woman found burning on the side of a Huntly road last month has been reamded to police custody till February 28 and will reappear before the Hamilton District Court on March 1.

Diwesh Kumar Sharma, 29, appeared briefly on Tuesday, on three charges – murdering his wife Ranjeeta, assault with … Read : Murdered Indian origin woman’s husband in police custody till Feb.28.

Rare photos of endangered Amazonians released to bring attention to their plight

LONDON – Rare photographs of natives of the Amazon have been released by Brazil to bring attention to the plight of the indigenous people, who rights groups say are faced with possible extinction.

The photographs, taken by Brazil’s National Indian Foundation (FUNAI), show curious adults and children peering skyward with their faces dyed reddish-orange and toting … Read more »»».

Vegan Diet Endorsed By Ruth Wako

CHARLES TOWN (GaeaTimes.com)- With time the interest of people towards healthy and alternative diet is increasing. A number of celebrities and eminent personalities are embracing vegan diet these days. Recently Talk Show legend Oprah Winfrey promoted vegan food and diet in her show. In Charles Town a lady named Ruth Wako has taken the [..] Read the original article: here.

Chinese use honey traps to spy on French companies

LONDON – Leaked French intelligence reports have revealed that Chinese spies are using honey traps to extort information in their industrial espionage operations.

A top researcher in a major French pharmaceutical company, who was wined and dined by a Chinese girl who he ended … Read more : Chinese use honey traps to spy on French companies.

Afghan Taliban commanders willing for peace talks if given safety guarantees

LONDON – Taliban commanders in Afghanistan have said that they are willing to explore peace talks with the Hamid Karzai-led government, if they can have more solid guarantees about their own future and safety.

“If I am sure that our conditions will be … Original article on : Afghan Taliban commanders willing for peace talks if given safety guarantees.

Procedural lapses behind Wikileaks Army private breaching classified military network

WASHINGTON – The Army private accused of leaking secret US diplomatic cables to Wikileaks had been sent to Iraq by his immediate commanders against the advice of his mental health specialist, a military official familiar with a new Army investigation has said.

The …. Original article  : Procedural lapses behind Wikileaks Army private breaching classified military network.

Afghan Taliban “not on the ropes yet”: NATO chief

WASHINGTON – Lieutenant General David Rodriguez, head of the NATO Joint Command and Deputy Commander of U.S. Forces in Afghanistan, has warned that the Taliban is far from being defeated and would soon change its strategy to carry out political … Read more >>.

Barbara Bush Supports Gay Marriage

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- Barbara Bush, the daughter of former U.S. President George W. Bush seems to have joined her mother and also a number of officials of public administration by publicly speaking in support of gay marriage. Barbara Bush has appeared in the video of Human Rights Campaign where she has urged the citizens …. Source article  : Barbara Bush Supports Gay Marriage.

Wrigley Field’s Roof Broken

CHICAGO (GaeaTimes.com)- Chicagoans are indeed having a tough time braving the aftermath of the blizzard that has lashed the city since Tuesday evening. To make matters worse, the blizzard posed a potential threat when it caused a piece of the roof of the famous Wrigley Field to fall seizing officials with panic who later on …. Original source  : Wrigley Field’s Roof Broken.

Metra Train Services Disrupted

CHICAGO (GaeaTimes.com)- The Metra train service in Chicago was hit by the blizzard and inclement weather like other transit services and the commuters had to bear the brunt as always. The met office issued warning about the storm which prompted the residents to leave for work early on Tuesday but they did not succeed … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Metra Train Services Disrupted.

LIC Bima Account Plan Unveiled

DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- LIC which is the leading insurance service provider in India has unveiled a couple of new Non linked plans named Bima Account I and Bima Account II. These are the first Variable Insurance Plans offered under new IRDA regime. The schemes are based on similar structures. The plans … Read more >>>.

2,421 civilians killed in Afghanistan in 2010, mostly by insurgents: Report

LONDON – The number of civilian deaths in Afghanistan since the United States-led invasion began in 2001 hit record levels last year, according to a new report.

According to the Kabul-based Afghanistan Rights Monitor, some 2,421 civilians were killed, most at the hands of insurgents.

“Over 3,270 were injured in conflict-related security incidents across Afghanistan,” the BBC …. Original source  : 2,421 civilians killed in Afghanistan in 2010, mostly by insurgents: Report.

Al-Qaeda actively planning to make ‘dirty bomb’

LONDON – After getting close to producing workable and efficient “biological and chemical weapons”, Al-Qaeda is actively trying to get nuclear material and recruiting rogue scientists from Pakistan to build a “dirty” bomb, according to leaked diplomatic documents.

Senior British defence officials have also raised deep concerns that a rogue scientist in the Pakistani nuclear programme … Read more >>.

WikiLeaks: Terrorist plan to use teddy bear bombs to blow up planes revealed

LONDON – Diplomatic cables leaked by the whistle blowing web site WikiLeaks have revealed terrorist plans to use children’s toys such as teddy bears to get bombs onto planes.

According to the Telegraph, American intelligence has been urging airport security staff to examine “children’s articles” for suspect explosive chemicals.

The threat was disclosed at a meeting …. Original article  : WikiLeaks: Terrorist plan to use teddy bear bombs to blow up planes revealed.

Valentine Week Boosts Diamond Import

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Valentine Week is all set to start from February 7, and with that, lovers are wondering in what special way, they can impress their partners, by pampering them with some amazing gifts and goodies. For all those who belong to this clan of people, can now celebrate the day with … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Valentine Week Boosts Diamond Import.

India’s strategic affairs guru K. Subrahmanyam dead

NEW DELHI – One of India’s well known analysts on strategic affairs, K. Subrahmanyam died at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Tuesday night. He was 82.

Subrahmanyam , one of the most respected voices in India on global security affairs, was suffering from lung and cardiac problems. He was also suffering … Read more >>.

Wills-Kate ‘to snub celebs expecting Royal wedding invite’

LONDON – Kate Middleton and Prince William are not planning to invite some celebrities who were expecting to attend the Royal wedding.

The guest list of 5000 doesn’t include Sir Paul McCartney and Dame Helen Mirren, for instance.

The couple will limit invites to family, friends and people playing a direct part in their public and private …. Read the original article  : Wills-Kate ‘to snub celebs expecting Royal wedding invite’.

Kuwait parliamentary committee rejects ban on bikinis

DUBAI – A parliamentary committee in Kuwait has rejected a motion that aimed to ban bikinis, saying it was unconstitutional.

The motion, submitted in November by members of the Development and Reform Bloc and MP Khalid Al Sultan, bans women from wearing bikinis, revealing bathing suits and clothes with deep cleavage at the beach, reports Gulf … Read more : Kuwait parliamentary committee rejects ban on bikinis.

Pak shifting troops from Afghan to Indian border will be “very damaging” to US interests

WASHINGTON – US Assistant Secretary of State for Central and South Asian Affairs Robert Blake has appreciated Pakistan for deploying approximately 140,000 troops from its Indian border to the Afghan border, and said re-deployment of Pakistani troops back to the eastern border would be “very damaging” to American interests.

In an interview with WRVO Radio, Blake … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pak shifting troops from Afghan to Indian border will be “very damaging” to US interests.

FBI looking out for ‘previously unknown’ 9/11 terror attacks suspects: ‘Wikileaks’

WASHINGTON – The Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) has started hunting for a previously unknown team of men suspected to be part of the 9/11 terror attacks, according to new revelations by the whistleblower website ‘Wikileaks’.

According to The Telegraph, three Qatari men had monitored the targets, provided “support” to the plotters and even possessed tickets …. Original source  : FBI looking out for ‘previously unknown’ 9/11 terror attacks suspects: ‘Wikileaks’.

2G scam: CBI grills A Raja for fourth time

NEW DELHI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday questioned former Telecom Minister A Raja for the fourth time in connection with alleged irregularities in the allocation of 2G spectrum.

This is also the second time this week that Raja is being questioned.

He was questioned earlier on December 24 and 25 last year.

The …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 2G scam: CBI grills A Raja for fourth time.

UK Immigration Minister vows to provide more jobs to British graduates

LONDON – The UK Immigration Minister Damian Green has pledged that British graduates would be given more jobs after it emerged that the arrival of thousands of non-European Union (EU) graduates every year has deprived Britons from finding jobs in their own country.

One in five young Briton is unable to find a job …. Read the original article  : here.

UK man sues female colleague who repeatedly slapped his butt

LONDON – A male shop assistant in Britain has launched a sex discrimination case against a female colleague of his after she repeatedly slapped his bottom.

Konstantinos Kalomoiris, 40, who worked at the John Lewis store on Oxford Street, claims Bianca Revrenna, 68, tapped his behind in …. Original article  : UK man sues female colleague who repeatedly slapped his butt.

Four arrested after 14-year-old girl ‘lashed to death’ in Bangladesh

DHAKA – Four people, including a Muslim cleric, have been arrested in Bangladesh in connection with the death of a 14-year-old girl who was publicly lashed.

Hena Begum’s was accused of having an affair with a married man, and a Shariatpur village court gave the punishment under Islamic Sharia law.he teenager reportedly received …. Source article  : Four arrested after 14-year-old girl ‘lashed to death’ in Bangladesh.

The Propagandist Tenor of Kashmir Solidarity Day(Article)

NEW DELHI – Kashmir Solidarity Day has been observed in Pakistan on February 05, as it has been every year since 1990. The propaganda that is being organised is on predictable lines.

A public holiday has been declared. Top Pakistani leaders will address various congregations, President Asif Ali …. Original article  : The Propagandist Tenor of Kashmir Solidarity Day(Article).

Rebuffed U.S. turns to Egypt military in the crisis

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration has stepped up its contacts with the Egyptian military to try to exert influence over events rocking a key ally.

With lines of communication between Washington and Cairo badly frayed, American officials say they believe the best channel for persuading Mubarak to leave may be through the … Original article on : Rebuffed U.S. turns to Egypt military in the crisis.

Winter storm cripples two-thirds of U.S.

LOS ANGELES – Two thirds of the United States of America (USA) has been brought to its knees by a winter snowstorm and ice turned streets.

At least two deaths have been reported. One of the deaths was that of a homeless man on …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Winter storm cripples two-thirds of U.S..

Govt. has made itself a ‘laughing stock’, says Jayalalithaa on Raja’s arrest

CHENNAI – All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) supremo J Jayalalithaa on Thursday expressed her dissatisfaction over the arrest of former Telecom Minister A Raja in connection with the 2G spectrum scam, saying the arrest has made the government ‘a laughing stock’.

Jayalalithaa … Read more >>.

Nitish Kumar meets Nepal President

NEW DELHI – Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar called on Nepal President Ram Baran Yadav here on Thursday.

Both leaders discussed crucial issues, like floods and their effects in both areas.

Kumar described the meeting as fruitful and said both India and Nepal would work towards containing the damage caused …. Original article  : Nitish Kumar meets Nepal President.

Gian Giacomo Caprotti: Mona Lisa’s Model?

ROME, ITALY (GaeaTimes.com)- In a rather startling revelations, researchers in the Italian capital of Rome have pointed out that the muse that was used by the Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci to create one of his masterpiece, Mona Lisa might be a male. The possible male inspiration behind the intriguing portrait was unearthed by …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Gian Giacomo Caprotti: Mona Lisa’s Model?.

Delhi couple pens book on forgotten heroes of independence

MUMBAI – A Delhi-based writer couple has penned a book with accounts of 25 families whose ancestors played a sterling role during the country’s freedom struggle.

The idea for the coffee-table book came about when Neena and Shivnath Jha met Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan in Delhi when he was a union minister. He expressed …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Delhi couple pens book on forgotten heroes of independence.

India records ‘modest growth’ of forest area despite population boom: FAO report

NEW YORK – India, China, Vietnam and the Philippines have seen their forested areas increase in size largely due to a switch from felling to planting, according to a United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) report.

The FAO State of the World’s Forests report aims to raise awareness of conservation among governments and other … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India records ‘modest growth’ of forest area despite population boom: FAO report.

Home Ministry advisory to states: Be sensitive with inquiries about Kashmir origin residents

NEW DELHI – The Home Ministry has issued an advisory to state governmentes and Union Territories to be more sensitive while making inquiries about residents from Jammu and Kashmir.

A ministry release said Thursday that state governments have been asked to issue appropriate instructions to all police stations that they should not single out residents from …. Source article  : Home Ministry advisory to states: Be sensitive with inquiries about Kashmir origin residents.

UK plastic surgeon sued for ???50m ‘for ruining woman’s face, career’

LONDON – A businesswoman has reportedly sued her plastic surgeon – who she claims ruined her career by leaving her with a facial twitch – for more than 50 million pounds.

The mother of three is seeking personal injury compensation from highly experienced cosmetic surgeon, Dr Le Roux Fourie, who “tried to cover up his mistake”. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UK plastic surgeon sued for ???50m ‘for ruining woman’s face, career’.

‘Miraculous weeping statue’ of Virgin Mary in Ohio baffles visitors

LONDON – Visitors to a small, non-descript building in Reading, Ohio, have claimed that a small statue of the Virgin Mary is crying tears.

Believers and non-believers alike have reported seeing the figurine, which lives in the back of a religious lending library, weep.

And putting weight to the claim is the footage filmed by WCPO TV … Original article on : ‘Miraculous weeping statue’ of Virgin Mary in Ohio baffles visitors.

Egypt crisis: US foreign policy in recast mode

WASHINGTON – With the Obama administration strongly condemning the violence against demonstrators in Egypt and calling on President Hosni Mubarak to speed up his exit from power, experts are suggesting that this is a drastic shift in American foreign policy.

Though the Egyptian Foreign Ministry has defiantly rejected suggestions from “foreign parties”, the Obama administration seems … Read more >>>.

Chelsea Clinton, hubby Marc Mezvinsky ’spending 3 months apart’

LONDON – Chelsea Clinton and her husband Marc Mezvinsky are apparently spending three months away from each other.

Mezvinsky has quit his job as an investment banker in favour of a three-month break at the exclusive ski resort of Jackson Hole in Wyoming, reports the Daily Mail.

But rather than accompanying her husband on the extended break, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chelsea Clinton, hubby Marc Mezvinsky ’spending 3 months apart’.

WikiLeaks reveals US threatened to take military action against China over space missiles

LONDON – The United States threatened to take military action against China during a secret “star wars” arms race within the past few years, according to documents leaked by the whistle-blowing web site WikiLeaks.

According to The Daily Telegraph, both nuclear superpowers shot down their own satellites using sophisticated missiles in separate show of strength.

The American [..] Read the original article: here.

Sino-India ties in focus at Kumarajiva seminar-cum-exhibition in Delhi

NEW DELHI – A three-day international seminar and exhibition to critically study and evaluate the contribution of Kumarajiva in enhancement of Indo-Chinese cultural relations and other related issues began here today under the aegis of Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts.

The event is being seen as valuable because generations after generations acknowledge Kumarajiva’s brilliance, …. Original source  : Sino-India ties in focus at Kumarajiva seminar-cum-exhibition in Delhi.

Raja offers to resign from DMK party post

NEW DELHI – Former Telecom Minister A Raja has offered to resign as Propaganda Secretary of the Dravida Munnettra Kazhagam (DMK).

The resignation offer came as senior leaders of the DMK are meeting in Chennai today to consider the impact of Raja’s arrest on the upcoming assembly elections in Tamil Nadu.

The meeting will take place amid … Read : Raja offers to resign from DMK party post.

Kuwait not to allow military men to grow beards

MANAMA – Kuwait’s government has rejected a draft law submitted by the parliament allowing military and securitymen to grow beards.

Difficulties in implementing the law, mainly among airmen, and a violation of the principles of discipline and commitment in the military institutions were cited by the government for rejecting the draft, Al Siyassah daily reported on … Read more »».

Person displaced by fencing in Tripura launch indefinite hunger strike

TRIPURA – Hundreds of internally displaced persons in Tripura launched an indefinite hunger strike to put pressure on the state government to implement their 19-point demands.

The people were displaced due to the erection of barbed wire fencing along the Indo-Bangladesh border.

“Due to this barbed wire fencing there are some 8, 500 families who have lost … Read more : Person displaced by fencing in Tripura launch indefinite hunger strike.

US girl finds naughty adult message on kids’ Valentine’s Day candy

WASHINGTON – A girl in the US has said that she found a naughty adult message on a piece of kids Valentine’s Day candy.

Ciara Bush, 12, said she read the message before showing it to her parents, who were stunned by what they saw.

“I thought it …. Source article  : US girl finds naughty adult message on kids’ Valentine’s Day candy.

House Republicans agree to drop “Forcible Rape” language from Abortion Bill

WASHINGTON – Republicans in the United States House of Representatives have dropped the word “forcible rape” from a section of an Abortion Bill that is before the House, following widespread condemnation by Democrats and abortion rights activists.

The “No Taxpayer Funding for …. Original source  : House Republicans agree to drop “Forcible Rape” language from Abortion Bill.

UK Muslim counsellors’ refusal to applaud Afghan war hero outrages colleagues

LONDON – The act of showing outright “disrespect” for a young Afghanistan war hero by two UK Muslim counsellors during an award ceremony has spurred a outrage among their colleagues who insisted that the duo should be “ashamed” of their ‘disrespectful’ move. …. Original source  : UK Muslim counsellors’ refusal to applaud Afghan war hero outrages colleagues.

Pak envoy to Egypt’s ‘charge for flight’ stand nixing evacuation of citizens from Cairo

LAHORE – Pakistan’s Ambassador to Cairo Seema Naqvi has become a virtual hurdle to the evacuation of Pakistanis from the riot-torn Egyptian capital by asking the Foreign Office to charge money for the act, diplomatic sources have confided.

Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani had issued the … Read more >>>.

Oz hotel offers guests chance to experience -190 degrees temperature

MELBOURNE – A hotel in Sydney, Australia, is offering its guests the experience of a lifetime, by exposing their bodies to temperatures as low as -190C.

Guests at a new cryolab clinic at Sydney’s Grace Hotel will be able to experience cryotherapy technology, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Oz hotel offers guests chance to experience -190 degrees temperature.

Obama prays for charity, humility, closeness to God, longer skirts for Malia

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama has revealed that he has three main points when he says his prayers: charity, humility, and closeness to God.

Obama, 49, said he “petitions God for a whole range of things”, but the three are the focus of his prayer.

“The first category of prayer comes out … Read more >>>.

Nepal TV station broadcasting night bulletin using ‘lantern’ to protest against power cuts

KATHMANDU – A top television network of Nepal has reportedly been broadcasting its nightly news bulletin in semi-darkness using a lantern to highlight the effects of massive power cuts.

Nepal is currently experiencing about 12 hours of power cuts daily.

Since … Read more »»».

KFC pulls fish sandwich ad campaign using Obama look-alike

WASHINGTON – KFC in Hong Kong has pulled an Obama-themed commercial selling a fish fillet sandwich.

A spokesman for Yum! Brands, however, declined to say exactly why the video ad campaign, which used an Obama look-alike to sell the sandwich, was yanked from air, reports Fox News.

He maintained it ‘was meant to be a spoof’.

“No …. Source  : KFC pulls fish sandwich ad campaign using Obama look-alike.

IAF MiG crashes, pilot safe

GWALIOR – A Soviet-era MiG-21 of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed in Madhya Pradesh Friday but there were no casualties as the pilot ejected safely, an official said.

The incident occurred at around 11.20 a.m. at Anup Nagar, 150 km southwest of this Madhya Pradesh town, an IAF spokesperson said here.
“The pilot …. Source article  : IAF MiG crashes, pilot safe.

Kuwait may pardon prisoners who memorise Quran

MANAMA – Kuwait’s Endowments and Islamic Affairs ministry has said that prisoners who can memorise the Quran might be eligible for the annual pardon.

The decision will be part of efforts to rehabilitate inmates and help them re-integrate society driven by high values. According to the ministry, 137 inmates were last enrolled in the memorisation programme.

“Kuwait … Read more »»».

Swedish ad condemned for portraying men as ‘mere sex objects’

LONDON – Sweden’s advertising ombudsman has slammed an advertisement featuring a muscular man clad only in a pair of boxer shorts as offensive to men as it portrays them as “mere sex objects”.

The ad, which promotes a television operator called Boxer, shows a photo shop character called Robert stretching out on a sheepskin rug wearing …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Swedish ad condemned for portraying men as ‘mere sex objects’.

Student suspected of being Maoist informer in Jhargram

JHARGRAM – Enraged students blocked a road in West Bengal’s Jhargram district on Thursday after police arrested a fellow school boy on suspicion of being a Maoist informer.

Students along with their teachers were seen protesting the police action.

“We blocked the National Highway-6 because police arrested a student of Class 10th. He was arrested when he …. Original article  : Student suspected of being Maoist informer in Jhargram.

Five Maoists arrested in Bihar

CHAPRA – Five hardcore Maoists, including their self-styled commander, have been arrested at Chapra in Saran district of Bihar.

Acting on a tip-off, police raided a hostel of the State welfare department and arrested the Maoists, including their leader Nakul ji.

“The police team acting on a tip off carried out a search operation in Ambedkar lodge …. Original source  : Five Maoists arrested in Bihar.

McCain opts out of 2012 GOP presidential candidature endorsements

WASHINGTON – US Senator John McCain (R-Ariz.) has said that he would “most likely” opt to keep himself away from endorsing any presidential candidate in 2012.

“I think I’m staying out of this for the first time in many years,” Politico quoted McCain, as saying.

On being asked if he would stay out of the … Original source on Gaea Times at : McCain opts out of 2012 GOP presidential candidature endorsements.

Pakistan team to assess Jammu lake project

JAMMU – A team of Pakistani experts will visit Jammu and Kashmir in the third week of February to assess an artificial lake under construction here.

“Since we have nothing to hide, let the team from Pakistan come and examine the lake project,” Public Health Engineering Minister Taj Mohi-ud-Din told IANS.
The lake is under … Read more »».

Kannada Sahitya Sammelana Kicks Off

BANGALORE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Bangalore is all set to host the 77th Akhila Bharata Kannada Sahitya Sammelana that started from today. The three-day event will aim to promote Kannada literature and culture. The government has persuaded each and every theater located in the city, to play only Kannada movies only, for the next three days, … Read more : Kannada Sahitya Sammelana Kicks Off.

Proposed US defence radar on Czech soil was ‘blind’ to long-range missiles: Wikileaks

WASHINGTON – The United States’ plans to build a missile defence system on Czech soil experienced troubles when defence chiefs discovered that the proposed radar lacked the ability to quickly detect long-range missiles.

The Telegraph quoted a 2007 briefing by General Patrick O’Reilly, Director of the US Missile Defence Agency, as claiming that the radar …. Source  : Proposed US defence radar on Czech soil was ‘blind’ to long-range missiles: Wikileaks.

Has Zardari secretly married US-based PPP activist?

WASHINGTON – Pakistan’s Presidency and Dr Tanveer Zamani, a practicing surgeon and PPP activist in the US, have commented quite differently on a flood of reports and Internet blogs referring to the possibility that Asif Ali Zardari may have secretly married Zamani.

The Sindh Medical College graduate, in her late 40s, who did her PhD in …. Read the original article  : Has Zardari secretly married US-based PPP activist?.

Tequila is causing major environmental problems in Mexico

WASHINGTON – The process of making Tequila from fibrous agave plants is causing major environmental problems in Jalisco, the Mexican state where the drink originated.

Los Angeles businessman Alejandro Viecco had visited the agave-fields surrounding the Mexican town of Tequila and found that the process of making the drink can be messy, smelly and disgusting.

“When …. Read the original article  : Tequila is causing major environmental problems in Mexico.

Chidambaram reviews law and order situation in J-K

JAMMU – Union Home Minister P Chidambaram held a breakfast meeting with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah here today and reviewed the law and order situation in the state.

The two leaders also discussed the security situation in the state along with the political aspirations of the state.

Chidamabaram, who is on two-day … Read : Chidambaram reviews law and order situation in J-K.

Wills, Kate to visit Canada this summer?

TORONTO – Prince William and his bride-to-be Kate Middleton are expected to visit Canada this summer.

According to Canadian officials, the chances are ‘very high’ the future heir to the throne and his partner will visit the country in several months.

However, they cautioned decisions are not finalized.

“Discussion are underway, in the …. Source  : Wills, Kate to visit Canada this summer?.

Traditional pot pourri is dying as Brits spend millions on air fresheners

LONDON – The traditional pot pourri is fast disappearing as more and more Britons prefer to spend millions of pounds on air fresheners and scented candles.

New figures show that the bowl of decorative dried flowers and spices are being replaced by modern … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Traditional pot pourri is dying as Brits spend millions on air fresheners.

US warns Pak continued detention of murder-accused diplomat may hurt defence ties

ISLAMABAD – The United States has conveyed a veiled threat to Pakistan that their bilateral defence cooperation can come under a cloud if the standoff on the issue of double murder-accused US national Raymond Davis’ immunity persists.

A three-member visiting delegation of the US House Armed Services Committee conveyed this warning to Pakistani … Read more : US warns Pak continued detention of murder-accused diplomat may hurt defence ties.

200 children fall sick following lunch party in Gujarat

NAVSARI – As many as 200 children fell sick after they consumed food served during a meal organised by non-resident Indian at a primary school in Gujarat’s Navsari district.

About 450 children and 50 staff of the Balmandir School attended a lunch organised by a non-resident …. Source article  : 200 children fall sick following lunch party in Gujarat.

Obama’s second year approval ratings most partisan and polarized since 1955: Poll

WASHINGTON – A new poll has found that United States President Barack Obama’s approval ratings during his second year in office were the most partisan and polarized they have ever been at two years into a presidency.

Gallup reviewed the partisan approval gaps between Democrats and Republicans and found …. Original article  : Obama’s second year approval ratings most partisan and polarized since 1955: Poll.

Catholics back Hindus protesting over mockery of Lord Ganesh by Carrey on NBC

NEVADA – Roman Catholics 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.

Father Charles … Read more : Catholics back Hindus protesting over mockery of Lord Ganesh by Carrey on NBC.

US spied on UK Foreign Office to gather crucial information about ministers: Wikileaks

WASHINGTON – The United States had ordered its diplomats to spy and gather information about the weaknesses of British Foreign Office ministers, and the strains in their professional relationships, according to latest revelations of Wikileaks.

The new … Read more : US spied on UK Foreign Office to gather crucial information about ministers: Wikileaks.

Pitch forking the farmer into the marketplace

RANCHI – The face of agriculture in India is changing fast. It needs to become not only sustainable but also profitable for farmers especially the young to stay on the land and cultivate it.

The farmers must understand how markets respond to agricultural produce. He [..] Read the original article: here.

Government sends notices to 17 in black money trail

KOLKATA – Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday said the Government has served notices to seventeen persons related to the foreign banks black money trail.

“We have served notices on seventeen persons and prosecution has begun. The government cannot reveal the names of account holders who …. Read the original article  : here.

Hidden sex poems ‘key to 18th century book’s success’ claims academic

LONDON – A British academic has suggested that the success of two best-selling volumes of poetry published in the 18th century was all due to the pornographic poems hidden in the book.

Oxford University’s Dr Claudine van Hensbergen came across ‘The Cabinet of Love’ in The … Original source on Gaea Times at : Hidden sex poems ‘key to 18th century book’s success’ claims academic.

Bank to fire staff who didn’t report criticism on Facebook

SYDNEY – An Australian bank has warned its employees of disciplinary action, including dismissal, if any one of them fails to report criticism of the bank made by others on social media channels, including Facebook.

Commonwealth Bank’s employees have been directed to immediately notify their manager if they come across “inappropriate or disparaging content … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Bank to fire staff who didn’t report criticism on Facebook.

Dreaded Pak Taliban Chief claims to create suicide bombers in just half-an-hour

ISLAMABAD – The Taliban’s “master recruiter” has boasted of his expertise at swaying people to terror, saying he can turn a young man into a suicide bomber in just half-an-hour.

Qari Hussain, who was placed on the US State Department’s terrorist blacklist …. Source article  : Dreaded Pak Taliban Chief claims to create suicide bombers in just half-an-hour.

Egyptian journo who posted ‘police torture videos’ arrested, but later released

CAIRO – Wael Abbas, a well-known Egyptian journalist who had posted hundreds of terrifying videos of police abuse on the web, has claimed that he was arrested, but later released by his country’s Army.

Abbas tweeted “arrested by the Army!” just before 7 p.m. Cairo time on Friday evening, …. Read the original article  : Egyptian journo who posted ‘police torture videos’ arrested, but later released.

Clothes dipped in liquid cocaine found in Italy drug bust

LONDON – A drug trafficking ring that used clothes dipped in liquid cocaine to smuggle the drug into Italy from the Dominican Republic has been busted by the Italian police.

Jumpers and jackets coated in cocaine were smuggled in regular suitcases through Rome’s Fiumicino airport, and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Clothes dipped in liquid cocaine found in Italy drug bust.

Meet the Brit boy, 7, who has memorised an entire city’s bus timetable

LONDON – A schoolboy in Britain is said to have memorised an entire city’s bus timetable, and can recite every route in his hometown.amie Taylor, 7, whose first word was “bus”, has collected hundreds of bus timetables and maps for Swindon, … Read more >>>.

Having more n-bombs than India won’t help, says Pakistani daily

ISLAMABAD – Possessing more nuclear weapons than India will not make Pakistan more secure, said a commentary in a Pakistan daily, pointing out that “the Bomb” had not helped to achieve Kashmiri liberation, and instead India’s grip on Kashmir was tighter.

The commentary in the Express Tribune also said that Pakistan has “deep and serious …. Original article  : Having more n-bombs than India won’t help, says Pakistani daily.

Welsh mum beats odds of 133,000/1 with birth of 3 children on same date

LONDON – A woman in Wales has beaten incredible odds of 133,000/1 after she gave birth to three of her children on the same date.

Pam Banwell, 35, gave birth to Millie, who will turn one, Jac, 9, and Alisha, 7, on February 5, and she said the fluke had come as a big surprise.

“We didn’t … Read more >>.

‘Assam Matsya Mahotsav’ fish festival in Guwahati

GUWAHATI – Assam, which is one of the largest consumers of fish in the country and is trying hard to become self sufficient in fish production, recently organised fifth Assam Matsya Mahotsav to promote fish production in the State.

The fish festival was held from January 27-29 at Shilpgram in Guwahati.

The festival brought together …. Source  : ‘Assam Matsya Mahotsav’ fish festival in Guwahati.

Burmese military junta to continue to rule by proxy after ex- army Gen elected President

RANGOON – Burma’s parliament has elected the country’s former Army General Thein Sein as the President, raising fears among political observers that the military establishment that has been running the country for almost a half-century is in no mood to loosen its grip on power.

Sein, the former Prime Minister, has a record of loyalty …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Burmese military junta to continue to rule by proxy after ex- army Gen elected President.

Seminar cum discussion on northeast held in Delhi

NEW DELHI – A seminar on the northeast was recently held here that focused on using literature, academic work and creative writing as a vehicle for spreading peace in the region.

The festival attracted writers, journalist and social activists from different parts of country who have extensively covered the northeast in the past.

The event has …. Source  : Seminar cum discussion on northeast held in Delhi.

Perth bushfire engulfs 20 homes, over 100 residents evacuated

PERTH – Up to 20 houses have reportedly been engulfed by a bushfire in Roleystone in Perth’s south-east, while firefighters are simultaneously battling a blaze that had forced the evacuation of more than 100 people in the Swan Valley.

The dangerous conditions come as the Bureau of Meterology issued a … Read : Perth bushfire engulfs 20 homes, over 100 residents evacuated.

Top Gears’ Jeremy Clarkson fuels row over Mexican ‘racist slurs’

LONDON – While the BBC was forced to apologise after Top Gear host Richard Hammond described Mexicans as ‘lazy, feckless… and flatulent’ in their show, co-host Jeremy Clarkson has again insulted them in his newspaper column.

Clarkson accused the Mexicans of having no sense of humour in his column …. Read the original article  : Top Gears’ Jeremy Clarkson fuels row over Mexican ‘racist slurs’.

‘If I make 2012 White House bid, it will be with thick skin and steel spine,’ says Palin

CALIFORNIA – Former Alaska Governor and 2008 Republican vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin has said that if she does make a bid for the White House in 2012, she will continue “having that thick skin and steel spine.”

“I would continue on the same course of not really …. Source  : ‘If I make 2012 White House bid, it will be with thick skin and steel spine,’ says Palin.

British officials described Zardari as “highly corrupt”, “numbskull”: WikiLeaks

LONDON – British officials described Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari as “highly corrupt” and a “numbskull” who would not last long in office, diplomatic cables unveiled by the whistle-blower website WikiLeaks has revealed.

The officials and military leaders gave their damning assessment of Zardari in the …. Read the original article  : here.

Obama not doing enough to resolve Egypt crisis: Palin

CALIFORNIA – Former Alaska Governor and 2008 Republican vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin has criticized the Obama administration for not doing enough to resolve the crisis in Egypt, one of Washington’s key allies in the Middle East.

Palin told the Christian Broadcasting Network …. Read the original article  : here.

Republicans must try to aspire for Reagan mantle: Palin

Santa Barbara (California, US), – Former Alaska Governor and 2008 Republican vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin told an audience of conservatives here on Friday night that there won’t be another like (former president) Ronald Reagan, but that did not mean the next crop …. Read the original article  : Republicans must try to aspire for Reagan mantle: Palin.

SAFTA, an important instrument to deepen intra-regional trade: Nirupama Rao

THIMPU – Indian Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao on Sunday said that with the completion of 25 years of SAARC, the process is maturing and gradually the focus is now on providing more services for the economic and development needs of the people.

She also said the …. Read the original article  : SAFTA, an important instrument to deepen intra-regional trade: Nirupama Rao.

Egypt crisis: CBS journalist incorrectly tweets about Mubarak’s exit

CAIRO – CBS News anchor Katie Couric mistakenly informed her 140,000 followers that embattled Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak had stepped down after 30 years.

“As many of you have already heard Mubarak has resigned,” Couric posted before backing off the report.

According to the New York Daily News, the source of …. Source  : Egypt crisis: CBS journalist incorrectly tweets about Mubarak’s exit.

Egypt’s divided military will want Mubarak to go with dignity

WASHINGTON – Egypt’s military brass, though divided over the fate of President Hosni Mubarak, would eventually like him to go with dignity.

According to General (retired) Anthony C. Zinni, a former head of the US Central Command, which oversees American military operations in the Middle East, the senior Egyptian military leadership would treat Mubarak, who once …. Original article  : Egypt’s divided military will want Mubarak to go with dignity.

US develops new technology to penetrate through Chinese Internet censors

WASHINGTON – The U.S. government has reportedly figured out ways penetrate through Internet censorship filters to deliver news and other vital information to people in countries like China via e-mails.

The official report from the Broadcasting Board of Governors has detailed successful testing the agency conducted last year as it tried to slip data into inboxes …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US develops new technology to penetrate through Chinese Internet censors.

New Zealanders prefer sex to booze

WELLINGTON – Most Kiwi would rather give up alcohol than forgo sex, according to a new poll.

The Research New Zealand survey asked people what they would be prepared to give up if it meant they could keep having a drink.

Few respondents wanted to give up sex, with only 14 percent overall happy to forgo that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : New Zealanders prefer sex to booze.

Egypt Government still unconvinced over West demand for Mubarak ouster

CAIRO – The Egyptian leadership apparently seems unconvinced about asking President Hosni Mubarak to quit his post immediately, even though the United States and leading European nations called for his exit and threw their weight behind Vice-President Omar Suleiman.

Though American officials revealed that Suleiman had promised them an “orderly transition” that would include constitutional reform …. Read the original article  : Egypt Government still unconvinced over West demand for Mubarak ouster.

Brits adopting American-style pronunciation of certain words

LONDON – British people are now adopting the American-style pronunciation of certain words.

Interim results of a study by the British Library suggested a third of Britons taking part now adopt the American-style ’skedule’ over the traditional pronunciation, which has a softer ’sh’ sound, reports the Telegraph.

Other US pronunciations taking root, according to researchers, are ‘pay-triotic’, …. Source article  : Brits adopting American-style pronunciation of certain words.

Jang Group expresses “deep sorrow” over notice on Zardari’s possible remarriage story

KARACHI – The Jang group of newspapers has expressed “deep sorrow and regret over the release of a legal notice” issued by Pakistani authorities for publishing a story on President Asif Ali Zardari’s possible secret remarriage.

On Saturday, Zardari had asked the organisation to apologise for publishing a false and concocted story printed against him, or … Read more >>>.

Chiranjeevi to meet Sonia Gandhi in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Telegu cine star and Praja Rajyam Party (PRP) chief Chiranjeevi will meet Congress President Sonia Gandhi here today amid speculation that he will merge his party with the Congress and hold discussions on strengthening the relationship between the two parties in Andhra Pradesh.

It has been reported that the meeting is expected to … Read more »»».

Egypt unrest: US distances itself from envoy’s comment on Mubarak

WASHINGTON – The US State Department has distanced itself from comments made by a US special envoy Frank Wisner in which he said Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak should stay in office during a power transition.

Spokesman Philip Crowley said Frank Wisner’s views were his own, and not coordinated with the US government.

The Telegraph quoted Crowley, as …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Egypt unrest: US distances itself from envoy’s comment on Mubarak.

UK helped Libya secure Lockerbie bomber’s release: Secret documents

LONDON – Secret documents have revealed that British ministers had arranged to meet their Libyan counterparts to give them advice on how the Lockerbie bomber Abdelbaset Ali Mohmed al-Megrahi’s could be released from a Scottish prison.

The latest revelation is a contrast to earlier claims by the Labour government that it did not “interfere” in … Read more >>>.

Mukherjee to convene all-party meet on Feb. 8 to break Parliament deadlock

NEW DELHI – In an endeavor to ensure that the ‘Budget Session’ of Parliament functions smoothly, Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has convened a meeting of leaders of all political parties on February 8 to resolve the deadlock in the Parliament on the issue of a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into the 2G spectrum …. Source article  : Mukherjee to convene all-party meet on Feb. 8 to break Parliament deadlock.

Chitravali: Compiling Tagore’s art on 150th birth anniversary

NEW DELHI – The spotlight is on the lesser known aspects of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore on his 150th birth anniversary – his numerous art works, his contribution to gender issues and environment among other things.

“The foremost among them are his paintings. The first exhibition of Tagore’s paintings was held in Paris from May … Original article on : Chitravali: Compiling Tagore’s art on 150th birth anniversary.

Bottle of French rare vintage fetches a record 77,412 dollars at auction

NEW DELHI – A bottle of yellow wine, Vin jaune, from 1774 has fetched 77,412 U.S. dollars in eastern France, setting a record price.

The 237-year-old bottle of wine, brewed from grapes in Louis XVI’s reign, hit the record price at a local wine festival auction, reports English.news.cn

The winner of the rare vintage, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Bottle of French rare vintage fetches a record 77,412 dollars at auction.