Breaking News – Monthly Newsletter March 2011

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.

Scottish Govt. denies striking deal with Libya over Lockerbie bomber’s release

EDINBURG – The Scottish Government would reportedly release new documents detailing discussions with Westminster to deny speculations that it had played a major role behind the scenes to release Lockerbie bomber Abdelbaset Ali Mohmed al-Megrahi on compassionate grounds.

Some senior Whitehall sources, …. Source article  : Scottish Govt. denies striking deal with Libya over Lockerbie bomber’s release.

Job ad for naked male handyman taken off student website

WELLINGTON – An advertisement for a “nude male handyman” has been deleted from a student’s website.

The ad, which had been placed on Student Job Search’s website, asked for one male student to do odd jobs around the home of a naturist employer in Auckland city.

“You will … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Job ad for naked male handyman taken off student website.

Gurgaon-Delhi Metro To Have Six-Coach Trains

GURGAON, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The metro system connecting New Delhi with the satellite town of Gurgaon, which is often considered to be one of the busiest routes of the metro line, would be given a major impetus by the Metro authorities which is gearing up to launch six-coach trains along the route. Trials along …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Gurgaon-Delhi Metro To Have Six-Coach Trains.

Guide for new Brit ministers includes buying Danish pastries for everybody

LONDON – A guidebook that was handed to new coalition ministers in Britain last year on how to run the country, has surfaced.

Handbook for Ministers, which has been labelled as an “informal guide to help new ministers work through the challenges of office”, is full of nonsensical jargon.

It was written by Rod Clark, principal and …. Original source  : Guide for new Brit ministers includes buying Danish pastries for everybody.

Sikh resumes Malaysian National Service training after hair cutting incident

SEREMBAN – A Sikh National Service (NS) trainee who had complained that his hair was snipped while he slept will resume training today at the Sungkai camp in Perak.

According to The Star, Basant Singh, 17, had left the Sungai Bakap camp in Penang after his controversial claim, which National Service officials denied.

Basant said his metre-long [..] Read the original article: here.

Buckingham Palace looking for a royal ‘eco-gardener’

LONDON – The Royal household is in the need of a gardener and has advertised for an eco-gardener responsible for keeping the grounds of Buckingham Palace tidy and environmentally friendly.

The 15,000 pounds-a-year post includes maintaining the 42-acre garden “to the highest standards” and recycling 99 per cent of the waste – even from the Royal … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Buckingham Palace looking for a royal ‘eco-gardener’.

Every incident of terrorism despicable: Pak Foreign Secretary

THIMPHU – Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir on Monday said that India and Pakistan have agreed to work together in countering militancy.

Speaking on the sidelines of a South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Council of Ministers meeting here, Bashir, who met his Indian counterpart, Nirupama Rao, on Sunday,said the meeting was a productive exchange … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Every incident of terrorism despicable: Pak Foreign Secretary.

Thousands evacuated from Paris suburb after live WWII bomb discovery

PARIS – French authorities evacuated at least six thousand people from their residences after an unexploded RAF bomb, which was apparently dropped during the Second World War, was discovered in Boulogne-Billancourt on the outskirts of Paris.

The 1000lbs device, half of which was made of high explosive, was found on land owned by carmaker Renault in …. Source article  : Thousands evacuated from Paris suburb after live WWII bomb discovery.

Coffee shop owner in US faces jail over waitress being too scantily clad

LONDON – A coffee shop owner in the US is facing up to 90 days jail time because one of her waitresses was too scantily clad.

Cheryl Clark, who runs Dreamgirls Expresso in Yakima, Washington state, was found guilty of violating the local indecent exposure ordinance after one of her “bikini baristas” wore sheer shorts while …. Read the original article  : Coffee shop owner in US faces jail over waitress being too scantily clad.

Australia to call blanket ban on all mobile phone in vehicles

SYDNEY – Australian transport ministers have considered imposing new laws to ban all mobile phone use while driving.

The decision emerged after a landmark report found that even hands-free devices dramatically increased the risk of crashing, reports the Sydney Morning Herald.

The report by state transport heads reflects the growing concern about distraction to drivers involved in [..] Read the original article: here.

Indian Army has two new mountain divisions in northeast

NEW DELHI – With an eye on China’s growing military strength in Tibet, India has “fully raised” two new mountain divisions with 30,000 troops in the northeast as a counter-measure and to shore up its mountain warfare capabilities.

“We have now fully raised the two new mountain divisions in the northeast. They are fully functional. …. Original article  : Indian Army has two new mountain divisions in northeast.

Female teacher in US accused of having sex with five pupils in five months

LONDON – A female high school gym teacher in the US has been accused of having sex with five students over a period of five-months.

Stacy Schuler, 32, is said to have had a sexual relationship with the students, who were mostly football players, from last August to December.

Warren County jury heard the sexual acts happened … Read : Female teacher in US accused of having sex with five pupils in five months.

Chinese New Year pumps up prostitution in Singapore

KUALA LUMPUR – Prostitution business in Geylang, Singapore, witnessed a rise during the Chinese New Year break with the influx of call girls from Indonesia, it has emerged.

The Chinese Press reported that the flesh trade had also benefited several budget hotels whose operators increased their room rates.

According to The New Paper, the usual room rate …. Source  : Chinese New Year pumps up prostitution in Singapore.

Air New Zealand to allow mobile use on new A320

MELBOURNE – Air New Zealand has said that the passengers on the black Airbus A320 will soon be able to use their mobile phones.

This privilege, however, will come at a price.

The black-liveried Airbus A320 aircraft commences its first commercial flights today.

It will be fitted with new in-flight mobile technology, which, within the next month, will …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Air New Zealand to allow mobile use on new A320.

America’s top civil rights group backs Hindus upset with NBC over Lord Ganesh mockery

NEVADA – National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), USA’s influential-oldest-largest civil rights organization, has 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 …. Source article  : America’s top civil rights group backs Hindus upset with NBC over Lord Ganesh mockery.

One killed, 11 injured at ‘house party’ shootout in Ohio

WASHINGTON – A shootout during a party at a Youngstown State University fraternity house in Ohio has reportedly left a person dead, and 11 others injured.

ABC News quoted Youngstown police as saying that they have arrested two men in connection with the shootings, but refused to disclose their names as they were still carrying out … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : One killed, 11 injured at ‘house party’ shootout in Ohio.

How long can Egyptian military navigate middle ground?

CAIRO – A history of crushing dissent indicates that the Egyptian Army’s tolerance for protesters may not hold if its interests are threatened.

When bread shortages swept Egypt in 2008, the government didn’t rely on the free market or its own warehouses, but turned instead to army bakeries to churn out millions of flat loaves to … Read more : How long can Egyptian military navigate middle ground?.

Regional parties of North Bengal demand a separate state

SILIGURI – A group of activists of regional parties in Siliguri and Jalpaiguri regions of West Bengal came together to stage a rally demanding a separate state to be carved out from the state.

The parties which took part in this were Republican Party of India (RPI), Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Kamptapuri People’s Party (KPP), People’s …. Read the original article  : Regional parties of North Bengal demand a separate state.

Einstein’s 69-yr-old granddaughter wants her due

NEW YORK – The university that owns the lucrative rights to Albert Einstein’s name is refusing to give a dollar to his family.

The late scientist’s granddaughter Evelyn Einstein, who approached the Hebrew University of Jerusalem about sharing the profits it earned, claims that she was ‘rudely blown off’.

“Everyone assumes I’m filthy rich, and they think … Read more : Einstein’s 69-yr-old granddaughter wants her due.

Pope believed ‘priests should be allowed to have sex’

MELBOURNE – Joseph Ratzinger, now Pope Benedict XVI, had as a young priest, signed a memorandum suggesting Vatican to relax celibacy rules.

He reportedly thought it would attract more people to become priests.

According to AdelaideNow, Father Brian Lucas, general secretary of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, said there was a range of opinions on the matter.

He …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pope believed ‘priests should be allowed to have sex’.

UK’s new proposals to protect Brit workers may hit skilled Indian migrants

LONDON – Under new proposals to protect British workers, Non-European Union citizens especially skilled Indian migrants, are likely to face more hurdles in getting work visas in the UK.

The UK government advisers have suggested cutting by a third the number of occupations, which qualify as ’skilled’ under immigration rules. If accepted by ministers, the number … Read more >>>.

Karunanidhi hits back at Swamy, says no irregularities in land scam

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and Dravida Munnettra Kazhagam (DMK) chief M Karunanidhi has refuted the charges of irregularities in the allotment of land under the discretionary quota, and hit back at Janata Party President Subramanian Swamy for seeking sanction for his prosecution on the issue.

Karunanidhi made a submission in the Tamil Nadu Assembly, …. Original source  : Karunanidhi hits back at Swamy, says no irregularities in land scam.

Egypt unrest may spawn ‘illegal immigration’ to UK, EU, warns NATO chief

CAIRO – NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen has warned that the political unrest in Egypt could lead illegal immigrants from there heading for Britain and the European Union (EU).

The Daily Mail quoted Rasmussen as saying that in the midst of a situation where the economies in Egypt and the Middle East as a whole [..] Read the original article: here.

No need to evacuate Pak nationals from Egypt as situation ‘almost normal’: Envoy

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Ambassador to Egypt Seema Naqvi has said there is no need to evacuate Pakistani nationals from the country, as life is almost back to normal there now.

Initially, the riots had pushed the envoy to prepare plans in consultation with the authorities in Islamabad to evacuate Pakistanis from Egypt.

According to these plans, …. Original source  : No need to evacuate Pak nationals from Egypt as situation ‘almost normal’: Envoy.

Palin’s application to trademark her name rejected

LONDON – Former Alaska governor Sarah Palin’s application to trademark her name has been rejected by US officials.

The 2008 Republican vice presidential candidate filed paperwork with the US Patent and Trademark Office in November, reports Sky News.

However, it … Read more >>>.

Obama, Clinton hint at removing Sudan from global state terrorism sponsors list

WASHINGTON – The United States has said that it is keeping the door open for Sudan to be removed from the list of state sponsors of terrorism if it meets its ‘obligations,’ including recognition of an independent South Sudan.oth President Obama … Read more »».

Hosni Mubarak richest man in world with estimated 70 billion dollar fortune: Report

LONDON – Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak is likely the richest man in the world with an estimated fortune worth about 70 billion dollars.

According to the Guardian, Mubarak has money stashed in several Swiss and other foreign bank accounts, and has shadowy …. Read the original article  : Hosni Mubarak richest man in world with estimated 70 billion dollar fortune: Report.

Tiger rescued from well near Nagpur

NAGPUR – A four year old tiger was rescued from a 30 foot empty well near Nagpur city on Monday.

The tiger fell into the well in Kaslabadi village.

Mishra Kotkar , a forest official said the rescue operation was carried out quickly.

He said the tiger was tranquilised before being brought …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Tiger rescued from well near Nagpur.

Rig-Veda inspired art show runaway hit in Berlin

NEVADA – Titled “Soma” after the Soma (ambrosial drink of the gods) of ancient Hindu scripture Rig-Veda, Carsten Holler’s art exhibition in Hamburger Bahnhof Museum fur Gegenwart in Berlin (Germany), which ended on February six, was a grand success, … Read : Rig-Veda inspired art show runaway hit in Berlin.

Basant Panchami celebrated in Punjab and U.P

AMRITSAR / ALLAHABAD – Hundreds of locals and school children celebrated Basant Panchami, in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.

In Amritsar, several school children, celebrated the occasion by singing and dancing in traditional attire.

Kamarpreet Kaur , a student , said “We are celebrating the festival of Basant (Spring) … Read more »».

Hindus ask ASEAN to save Shiva temple from further damage in Thai-Cambodia clash

NEVADA – Hindus have asked ASEAN to urgently play an effective role in protection and preservation of Preah Vihear Hindu Shiva temple complex which has reportedly suffered considerable damage due of Thai-Cambodian crossfire.

Notable Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, said that …. Source  : Hindus ask ASEAN to save Shiva temple from further damage in Thai-Cambodia clash.

Hindus ask Berlusconi, Pope visit Roma family whose 4 kids were burnt alive

NEVADA – Hindus want Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi and Pope Benedict to visit the grieving Roma (Gypsy) family, whose four children were burnt alive on February six in Rome outskirts, and offer them support.

Three brothers and a sister, aged 4-11 years, perished while …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bright sun, kites mark Punjab’s Basant Panchami celebrations

CHANDIGARH – Overcast conditions and rainfall in many parts of Punjab since the last two days made way for a clear sky and bright sunshine Tuesday as people observed the festival of ‘Basant Panchami’ — the first day of the spring season.

Youngsters and children could be seen flying kites in various cities and towns … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Bright sun, kites mark Punjab’s Basant Panchami celebrations.

World’s tallest model Amazon Eve ready to pose nude for Playboy

WASHINGTON – Amazon Eve has revealed that she’s ready to pose nude for Playboy magazine.

“Sure I would do Playboy. I would need to reduce my muscle mass and soften up a bit, but Hefner is the only one I would pose nude for, because he does it so tastefully,” she told FOX411 in an exclusive …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : World’s tallest model Amazon Eve ready to pose nude for Playboy.

Malaysian govt. urged to recognise Malay-Indians’ roles in country’s development

KUALA LUMPUR – A Malaysian group called the People’s Service Movement has reportedly urged the government to give due recognition to Malay-Indians who have played major roles in the country’s development.

The Star quoted the group’s spokesman S. Sinappan as saying that the Indians, through their hard work and sacrifices, have made huge contributions in developing …. Original article  : Malaysian govt. urged to recognise Malay-Indians’ roles in country’s development.

One cop killed, three injured in checkpoint bomb attack at Peshawar

PESHAWAR – A policeman was killed and three others wounded in explosions at a security checkpoint in Pakistan’s northwest city of Peshawar.

Although nobody was hurt when the first bomb went through the checkpoint, a second remote-controlled bomb detonated as police rushed to the scene and struck them, the BBC reports.

The police checkpoint had been abandoned … Read more : One cop killed, three injured in checkpoint bomb attack at Peshawar.

Indian-origin bride’s murder during honeymoon in Cape Town was unintentional: Hitman

CAPE TOWN – The revelation of a statement by one of the gunmen accused of killing an Indian-origin bride during her honeymoon in Cape Town last year, saying that they never intended to kill Anni Dewani, has raised doubts on police claims that her husband Shrien had plotted the murder.

Mziwamadoda Qwabe had told detectives, five …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Bristol Palin memoir to hit the shelves June 21???

WASHINGTON – It seems former Alaska governor Sarah Palin’s 20-year-old daughter Bristol has put down her dancing shoes and picked up the pen.

A book listing on Amazon, under the heading “Untitled Bristol Palin Memoir,” says that the 304-page book is due to hit the shelves June 21, reports the Politico.

In November, Palin’s family friends told …. Source article  : ‘Bristol Palin memoir to hit the shelves June 21′.

Possible Muslim Brotherhood govt “mother of all fears,” for Egypt’s Christians

CAIRO – Amid massive protests across the country calling for Hosni Mubarak’s resignation, Christians in Egypt, who make up about 10 percent of the population, are reportedly living in fear over whether the political change in the near future may end up in them being persecuted in their own country.

Although some Christians were found … Original source on Gaea Times at : Possible Muslim Brotherhood govt “mother of all fears,” for Egypt’s Christians.

US regrets widow’s suicide but insists Pak frees murder-accused diplomat

WASHINGTON – The United States has said it was aware of the fact that the widow of one of the two Pakistani man killed by a US diplomat last month had committed suicide, but reiterated that Pakistan must fulfil its international obligations under the Vienna Convention and release the accused.

While US official Raymond Davis, who … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US regrets widow’s suicide but insists Pak frees murder-accused diplomat.

French PM’s admission of enjoying free holiday courtesy Mubarak outrages opposition

CAIRO – French Prime Minister Frangois Fillon’s admission to have enjoyed a free holiday on the Nile over the New Year at Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak’s expense has outraged the opposition in Paris who condemned Fillon’s government, saying it has lost a “sense of public spirit”.

The admission has come amid … Original source on Gaea Times at : French PM’s admission of enjoying free holiday courtesy Mubarak outrages opposition.

Brit woman rower strips off with her five-man crew to break world record

LONDON – A British athlete, who was the only woman on a five-man crew trying to break the record for crossing the Atlantic, shed all her inhibitions aside and joined her team-mates in stripping to heal blisters.

Naomi Hoogesteger, 29, was the only woman in the six-person … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Brit woman rower strips off with her five-man crew to break world record.

Aero India 2011 Affects Bangalore Hotels

BANGALORE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The much awaited Aero India 2011 show has started near Bangalore an annual event which witnesses the participation of top aircraft manufacturing majors of the world. This year the event has also attracted the global aviation majors like Boeing and others but the event has also triggered an accommodation crisis in … Read : Aero India 2011 Affects Bangalore Hotels.

Police interact with ’stone-pelters’ in Srinagar

SRINAGAR – For a second day Wednesday, senior police officers interacted over lunch with nearly 150 young men who were involved in clashes with security forces here in Jammu and Kashmir.

Inspector General of Police S.M. Sahai, Deputy Inspector General Abdul Gani Mir and Senior Superintendent of Police Syed Ashiq Bukhari spoke with the “stone-pelters” …. Source  : Police interact with ’stone-pelters’ in Srinagar.

Surajkund fair, a major draw for art and craft lovers

NEW DELHI – The 25th Surajkund Crafts Mela is proving to be major attraction for art and craft lovers, besides international tourists.

Organised jointly by the Union Tourism Ministry and Haryana tourism department, the fair has been a major draw for people not only from India but from all across the world.

Introduced in 1987, the fair …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Surajkund fair, a major draw for art and craft lovers.

Romanian witches could be fined or jailed for wrong predictions

LONDON – A new bill has been proposed by Romanian authorities that could see witches being fined or even jailed if their predictions do not come true.

The new bill emerged after the government began taxing witches on their business in January after they changed the law to officially recognise the centuries-old practice of witchcraft as …. Read the original article  : Romanian witches could be fined or jailed for wrong predictions.

Applying make-up while driving ‘more distracting than using cell phone’

SYDNEY – A new study has revealed that applying make-up or reading a map behind the wheel could be far more distracting than talking on the mobile phone.

The Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, which compiled the year-long research, said putting on make-up increased a driver’s crash risk threefold and texting in a phone number 2.8 times, …. Original source  : Applying make-up while driving ‘more distracting than using cell phone’.

Aero India 2011 Begins

BANGALORE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The largest air show of India Aero India 2011 commenced on a bright note on Wednesday near Bangalore amidst much fanfare and media coverage. The yearly event which presents the aircraft and military aviation assets of India is something the leading aircraft manufacturing companies look forward to. The aircraft and helicopters … Read more : Aero India 2011 Begins.

Kate Middleton to be given diplomacy lessons

LONDON – Kate Middleton will get training in diplomacy from Sir David Manning, a veteran diplomat who already advises Princes William and Harry.

Sir David Manning, who was Tony Blair’s key foreign policy adviser in the run-up to the Iraq war, is to act as Kate’s mentor on foreign affairs, reports the Daily Express.

He will prepare … Read more »»».

US hopeful of getting larger Defence deals from India

BANGALORE – US Ambassador to India Timothy J Roemer has said the removal of the hurdles from the list of banned entities by the USA is very significant for future business opportunities and bilateral trade with India, prompting New Delhi to rely more on Washington for military hardware.

Addressing a conference US Aerospace and Defence Industry … Read more »».

Three dead in fire at Tata headquarters in Mumbai

MUMBAI – At least three people have died and several others are feared trapped in a fire at Bombay House, which houses the main office of the Tata Group in Mumbai’s Fort Area.

The fire was reported from the ground floor of the building.

Ten fire engines, five water tankers and ambulances are being used to … Original article on : Three dead in fire at Tata headquarters in Mumbai.

2G scam: CBI gets transit custody of Shahid Balwa

NEW DELHI – A special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court on Wednesday granted three day transit custody of Dynamix Balwas (DB) group Managing Director Shahid Balwa to the CBI in connection with the 2G scam.

Balwa was arrested on Tuesday night from his Bandra residence in Mumbai and will be sent to Delhi later today. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 2G scam: CBI gets transit custody of Shahid Balwa.

Musharraf will have to face Pak court in Benazir assassination case: Babar Awan

RAWALPINDI – Former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf will have to prove his innocence before the court in the Benazir Bhutto assassination case, Law Minister Babar Awan has said.

Former Prime Minister Benazir was targeted in a gun and bomb attack as she was leaving Liaqat Bagh in Rawalpindi after addressing a public rally on December 27, …. Read the original article  : here.

Adult novelty shop in US offers sex toys in exchange for guns

WASHINGTON – A drive-thru adult novelty shop in the US has come up with a new promotion called Guns for Toys, which offers customers sex toys in exchange for guns.

The store, Pleasures, on University Drive in Huntsville, offers anyone, who trades in a gun, credit that’s equal to the value of the weapon.

It will have … Original article on : Adult novelty shop in US offers sex toys in exchange for guns.

UK tourist ‘dies after receiving silicone bottom jabs’

MELBOURNE – A British tourist who received silicone injections in her butt at a Philadelphia motel, has suddenly died, it has emerged.

A preliminary medical examination revealed that the silicone went into her central vascular system, ultimately stopping her heart, WCAU-TV reported.

Police reportedly obtained a search warrant for the Philadelphia motel this week, and suspect that … Read more : UK tourist ‘dies after receiving silicone bottom jabs’.

Kiwi ‘win a bride’ radio competition sparks outrage

MELBOURNE – A radio station in New Zealand has sparked outrage after coming up with a competition that will see the winner fly to Ukraine and be given the chance to pick a bride from an agency.

The contest, launched by MediaWork’s station The Rock, which is broadcast nationwide, will also award the winner with 12 [..] Read the original article: here.

India’s Tejas, light combat helicopter dazzle participants at Aero India

BANGALORE – India’s own first supersonic multi-role combat aircraft Tejas and light combat helicopter (LCH) dazzled participants at the Aero India 2011 on Wednesday with their breathtaking aerobatic manouveres at Air Force Station Yelhanka.

It was for the first time that India’s indigenously developed fighter, including a trainer variant and a naval variant, were on display …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : India’s Tejas, light combat helicopter dazzle participants at Aero India.

Planned Tehran march in support of Egypt protests will test Iranian regime: Opposition leader

KABUL – Iranian opposition leader, Mehdi Karroubi, has said that a planned demonstration in favour of the protests in Egypt and Tunisia in Tehran next week would be a test for both the Iranian government and its opponents.

The New York Times quoted Karroubi as saying that if Iran denies permission for the march, it …. Original source  : Planned Tehran march in support of Egypt protests will test Iranian regime: Opposition leader.

Assange’s accusers ’sent texts discussing revenge’

LONDON – The women who accused Julian Assange of sexually assaulting them sent text messages to each other, discussing ‘revenge’ and extracting money from the WikiLeaks founder, a London court has heard.

The revelation was made by Assange’s Swedish lawyer on the second day of an extradition hearing to decide whether he should be sent back …. Source  : Assange’s accusers ’sent texts discussing revenge’.

Air India Kanishka bomber Reyat appeals against perjury conviction

OTTAWA – Inderjit Singh Reyat, the only convicted man over the bombing of an Air India jet, has reportedly appealed against a perjury conviction in his alleged accomplices’ trial in Canada.

After spending 22 years in jail for his role in the bombing plot, Reyat got an additional nine years last month for lying under oath …. Source  : Air India Kanishka bomber Reyat appeals against perjury conviction.

Top US lawmaker says Pak faces cut in aid unless it drastically increases tax rates

WASHINGTON – US aid beneficiary nations, such as Pakistan, will have to shoulder more of the burden for their own growth as Washington eyes deep cuts in its overseas assistance, a top US lawmaker has warned.

“Greater sacrifice by aid recipients is required to sustain the generosity of the [..] Read the original article: here.

US man faces jail over sex with girl, 13, he married in online computer game

LONDON – A man in the US is facing jail after he married a teenage girl in an online role-playing game and then had sex with her after meeting up with her.

John W Phillips, 54, of Fitchburg, Massachusetts, has been accused of …. Original article  : US man faces jail over sex with girl, 13, he married in online computer game.

WikiLeaks: Suleiman told Israel he would ‘cleanse’ Sinai of arms runners to Gaza

LONDON – Egyptian Vice-President Omar Suleiman told the Israelis he wanted to start “cleansing the Sinai” of Palestinian arms smugglers.

According to WikiLeaks-related leaked diplomatic cables, this is more evidence of the close ties between Israel, the United States and Suleiman, who is tipped to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : WikiLeaks: Suleiman told Israel he would ‘cleanse’ Sinai of arms runners to Gaza.

Brit Muslim kids learning to cut off hands of thieves

LONDON – British Muslim children are being taught how to chop off thieves’ hands and being told that Jews are plotting to take over the world at a network of Islamic schools.

According to The Telegraph, nearly 5,000 pupils are attending weekend schools [..] Read the original article: here.

Australia in secret uranium talks with India

CANBERRA – The Australian Government is reportedly in secret negotiations with the Indian Government for the sale of uranium, though publicly it asserts that it cannot allow such exports as long as Delhi maintains a nuclear arsenal outside the nuclear non-proliferation treaty.

Resources, … Original article on : Australia in secret uranium talks with India.

US workers fired over email comparing Obama to ‘tar ball’ sues company

LONDON – Two workers in the US, who were fired from their jobs after they forwarded an email that compared US president Barack Obama to a “tar ball”, have decided to sue their company.

Deborah Bonanno and James Sprung received the email and forwarded it to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : US workers fired over email comparing Obama to ‘tar ball’ sues company.

Bleeding killed ‘whipped to death’ Bangladesh girl, finds fresh post-mortem report

DHAKA – A 14-year-old Bangladeshi girl, who was publicly whipped for allegedly having an illicit relationship with her married cousin, had bled to death, according to a fresh post-mortem examination.

It comes after a Bangladeshi High Court ordered authorities to exhume Hena Begum’s … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Bleeding killed ‘whipped to death’ Bangladesh girl, finds fresh post-mortem report.

Prince Charles says climate change skeptics ‘playing a reckless game of roulette’

LONDON – The Prince of Wales has hit out at climate change skeptics saying that they are “playing a reckless game of roulette” with the future of their grandchildren.rince Charles said this while addressing a European Union conference on global warming in Brussels.

“I would …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Prince Charles says climate change skeptics ‘playing a reckless game of roulette’.

Aircraft deal: IAF fears bid losers may complain to CVC

BANGALORE – India is just about a month or two away from deciding the winner of the $10.4-billion contract for 126 combat aircraft, but the Indian Air Force (IAF) is afraid the losers among the six bidders for the deal might derail the process of quick acquisition by knocking on the corruption watchdog’s doors.

The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Aircraft deal: IAF fears bid losers may complain to CVC.

Teddy Day Sales Flood Stores

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Soft toy galleries are flooded with customers for today is the much awaited Teddy Day when people gift their loved ones teddy bears, the cutest and cuddliest of all toys. With February 10 as the Teddy Day in the Valentine week, shopkeepers are having an extremely busy schedule, for there seems … Read : Teddy Day Sales Flood Stores.

Indian Railways Planning More Complexes

ALLAHABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Indian railways is keen on making passenger amenities improved at the key rail stations in the country. The Allahabad junction is soon going to get a spanking new multi functional complex which will prove to be a boon for the passengers. The construction of the complex has been given to Indian … Read more »».

M.J. Akbar’s book still rules the bestseller list (IANS Books)

NEW DELHI – Indian journalist M.J. Akbar’s “Tinderbox: The Past and Future of Pakistan” and “Tender Hooks” by Pakistani writer Moni Mohsin continue to dominate for the fourth week the non-fiction and fiction sections, respectively, of the bestseller list.

The top 10 in each category this week are:
Non-Fiction
1. “Tinderbox: The Past and Future …. Original source  : M.J. Akbar’s book still rules the bestseller list (IANS Books).

Pakistan test-fires nuclear-capable cruise missile

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Thursday successfully tested a nuclear-capable cruise missile with a range of up to 600 km, a military official said.

The Hatf-VII missile, also called Babur after the 16th-century Muslim ruler who founded the Mughal Empire, was fired from an undisclosed location, said Major General Athar Abbas, a military spokesman.
“Babur, which can … Read more >>.

Indian Railways Focuses On Belur Math

KOLKATA, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Union Railway minister Mamata Banerjee is keen on building a positive image among the intellectuals as is evident from her recent activities. Under her instruction Indian railways has come up with special trains dedicated to pay tribute to the memories of stalwarts like Mother Teresa and Rabindranath Tagore. She laid the foundation …. Read the original article  : Indian Railways Focuses On Belur Math.

Brit man used schoolgirl, 15, as sex toy in cult’s initiation ceremony

LONDON – A man from Britain has been accused of leading a cult and using a 15-year-old schoolgirl as a sex toy in an occult initiation ceremony.

Colin Batley, 48, who along with other cult members lived in a cul-de-sac in Kidwelly, West Wales, has been accused of being the “evil” cult leader who first had …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Brit man used schoolgirl, 15, as sex toy in cult’s initiation ceremony.

Zardari aides hope Pak, US will ‘work out differences’ on Raymond Davis’ detention

ISLAMABAD – Aides to Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari have expressed confidence that Islamabad and Washington can amicably resolve a diplomatic crisis over the detention of double-murder accused US diplomat Raymond Davis.

None of them would, however, directly respond to the statements from Washington that billions of dollars in US aid to Pakistan could be … Read more : Zardari aides hope Pak, US will ‘work out differences’ on Raymond Davis’ detention.

N. Korea walks out of talks, analysts warn of more nuke tests

SEOUL – Talks between officials of South and North Korea have broken down, suggesting that Pyongyang could now be taking steps to burgeon its nuclear program.

South Korea’s chief negotiator Colonel Moon Sang-kyun said the three-member North Korean team got up abruptly and walked out of the room without shaking hands and without comment in the …. Source article  : N. Korea walks out of talks, analysts warn of more nuke tests.

Development work, police action can address Maoist issue in India: IG, CRPF

COIMBATORE – N. R. K. Reddy, Inspector General of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has said the Maoist issue could be rightly addressed with a mixture of development initiatives and police action.

Talking to mediapersons at the passing out parade of 77th batch of Sub-Inspectors here, Reddy said to address the issue developmental work should go …. Source article  : Development work, police action can address Maoist issue in India: IG, CRPF.

Rahul Gandhi blames Mayawati for deteriorating law and order condition in UP

AMETHI – Congress General Secretary Rahul Gandhi has slammed Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati for the deteriorating law and order condition of the state and raised questions about the safety and security of women in Amethi.

Addressing the locals, after laying the foundation stone of a training camp for Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Gandhi said …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Rahul Gandhi blames Mayawati for deteriorating law and order condition in UP.

WiliLeaks cables state Saudi oil reserves may be overstated by almost 40 percent

LONDON – Leaked American diplomatic cables released by the whistle blowing web site WikiLeaks have revealed that the United States fears that Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest crude oil exporter, may not have enough reserves to prevent oil prices escalating.

The cables urge Washington to take seriously a warning from a senior Saudi government oil executive … Original article on : WiliLeaks cables state Saudi oil reserves may be overstated by almost 40 percent.

NASA astronaut hopes to stage ‘out of this world’ concert

LONDON – A NASA astronaut is hoping to stage a concert that is literally out of this world, and plans on doing it with the help of Irish band The Chieftains and British band Jethro Tull.

Astronaut Catherine Coleman said she prefers to create music with other people, but unfortunately she is the only flautist among … Read more >>>.

Book on Sachin Tendulkar released in Bangalore

BANGALORE – A book on the life of Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar was released here on Thursday.

The book “Sach” is written by Gautam Bhattacharya, who is also a sports journalist said it was tough to write a book on Sachin.

“It’s extremely difficult to write something new about Tendulkar because from the age of sixteen … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Book on Sachin Tendulkar released in Bangalore.

Market catches fire in Mathura

MATHURA – A market in Mathura caught fire on Friday , causing huge losses.

Retailer incurred huge losses as fire engulfed several shops and paddy godowns.

Bhushan Singh, a shopkeeper said: “There was a huge fire in the market. The fire engines did not have enough water to douse fire.”

Six fire engines were used … Read : Market catches fire in Mathura.

Now, super yacht that flies four metres above water at 400 km/h

MELBOURNE – Dreams of sailing and flying at the same time may soon come true, after an Australian designer revealed plans for a yacht that can fly four metres above the water at speeds of up to 400 km/h.

The Ekranoyacht has been designed to “bring the super car flavour to the water”, and it was … Read more >>.

Hundreds of children participate in Narkanda ski championship

NARKANDA – Hundreds of children participated in a skiing Championship on Thursday.

The championship was organised by the mountaineering institute in Narkanda on the occasion of it’s Golden Jubilee.

The director of the mountaineering institute, Randhir Singh Salhuria, said, “The event has been designed as Golden Jubilee Ski Cup for juniors to encourage … Original article on : Hundreds of children participate in Narkanda ski championship.

Michelle Obama wears $35 H and M dress on ‘Today’ show

NEW YORK – US First Lady Michelle Obama reportedly wore a ‘cheap’ dress from H and M on “Today” show.

She dressed in a 35-dollar navy blue dotted dress from the brand’s current collection and accessorized it with a thick orange belt and bold yellow heels, reports StyleList.

This isn’t the first time she’s opted for cheap … Read more : Michelle Obama wears $35 H and M dress on ‘Today’ show.

Clapper downplays criticism that US intel services missed warning signs of turmoil in Egypt

WASHINGTON – US Director of National Intelligence James Clapper has rejected criticisms American intelligence services had failed to warn Egypt about the political unrest against President Hosni Mubarak’s rule.

Addressing the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, Clapper has said that US intelligence services had done “yeoman’s work” on Egypt, the BBC reports.

He also insisted that …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Clapper downplays criticism that US intel services missed warning signs of turmoil in Egypt.

Brit girl, 18, dies from rare heart condition after first kiss with boyfriend

LONDON – A British girl, who shared a first kiss with her boyfriend, is said to have collapsed and died just minutes later from a rare heart condition.

Jemma Benjamin, 18, and fellow university student Daniel Ross, 21, were at his house when they kissed.

“It was not a sexual relationship but we saw each other a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Brit girl, 18, dies from rare heart condition after first kiss with boyfriend.

Trial delayed in Indian American insider trading case

NEW YORK – A federal court judge in Manhattan on Thursday postponed the start date for the securities fraud trial of Galleon Group founder Raj Rajaratnam until March 8.

According to the New York Post, billionaire Rajaratnam has denied that he benefited from inside information passed to him by company insiders, including details about Advanced …. Source  : Trial delayed in Indian American insider trading case.

Tibetans say allegations against Karmapa Lama baseless

DHARAMSALA – Tibetans have said the allegations levelled against 17th Karmapa Lama, Ogyen Trinley Dorje , are baseless.

A Member of Parliament of the Tibetan government-in-exile, Dawa Tsering, said people have full faith in him,

“This incident had definitely defamed him too much and is more like a baseless llegation. This is really very unfortunate. … Read more : Tibetans say allegations against Karmapa Lama baseless.

David Cameron ‘misses driving his Honda CRV’

LONDON – David Cameron has revealed that the only thing he doesn’t like about his job as a Prime Minster is that he doesn’t get to drive his ‘beautiful’ Honda CRV.

Cameron is not allowed to drive his car for security reasons.

The insight came as the premier was answering questions from staff at the car manufacturer’s …. Original article  : David Cameron ‘misses driving his Honda CRV’.

Prince William appointed Colonel of Irish Guards

LONDON – The Queen has appointed her grandson Prince William as the Colonel of the Irish Guards.

It is the Prince’s first honorary appointment in the British Army, and he will be the Irish Guards’ first royal colonel, reports the Telegraph.

The Queen has given her formal approval for the honour, which will see the prince take … Original source on Gaea Times at : Prince William appointed Colonel of Irish Guards.

Rep. Christopher Lee deserved to get caught, says Craigslist woman

NEW YORK – The woman who unknowingly forced Rep. Christopher Lee to quit office says she doesn’t feel bad because she assumes he has a history of cheating on his wife.

“You never get caught the first time,” the New York Daily News quoted the 34-year-old woman as telling TheLoop21, a black issues blog in Washington.

“Chances …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Rep. Christopher Lee deserved to get caught, says Craigslist woman.

Oz man caught filming up women’s skirts at train station

MELBOURNE – A man in Australia has allegedly been caught filming up women’s skirts at Sydney’s Central Railway Station.

The 56-year-old man was spotted using a digital camera to film up the skirts of women as they walked up the stairs to the train platform, News.com.au reported.

The camera was placed on top of his suitcase, and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Oz man caught filming up women’s skirts at train station.

Environmentalist Brockovich wants to be an Oz citizen

SYDNEY – Environmental campaigner Erin Brockovich says she will seek to become a dual citizen of Australia and her native US.

Brockovich is so dedicated to green issues in Australia she is planning to apply for dual citizenship.

She said she was drawn to the country by the beauty of the wide brown land and the lush …. Original source  : Environmentalist Brockovich wants to be an Oz citizen.

ULFA is still a banned organisation, says Sashadhar Choudhury

NEW DELHI – ULFA Foreign Secretary Sashadhar Choudhury has said his outfit is still outlawed according to the Indian Constitution and it was upto the Government of India whether it wanted to remove the tag or not.

Addressing a press conference after meeting the Union Home Minister, P Chidambaram and Home Secretary Gopal Krishna Pillai, Choudhury … Original article on : ULFA is still a banned organisation, says Sashadhar Choudhury.

Kalaignar TV defends 2G spectrum deal

NEW DELHI – Kalaignar TV, which is owned by the DMK’s first family and is allegedly linked to the 2G scam on Friday clarifying that the channel had nothing to do with 2G money.

In a statement issued here, Kalaignar TV managing director Sharad Kumar said: “There is no connection between the spectrum allocation made in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kalaignar TV defends 2G spectrum deal.

Not an encouraging time for India, Pak to talk: Ex-official

NEW DELHI – Neither India nor Pakistan have much leverage, and both are at ‘wobbly’ political points at home, and for both countries to come up with any landmark agreement or solution to their bilateral problems, is very distant, feels a former Indian foreign secretary.

“The time is bad. Both governments are really wobbly at the …. Original source  : Not an encouraging time for India, Pak to talk: Ex-official.

Pranab Mukherjee promises more rural banks

NEW DELHI – Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has said banking services would be rolled out in 20,000 villages which have no banks with a population of over 2,000 by the end of this fiscal as part of the Government’s overall efforts to improve financial services in the country.

Addressing at the launch of a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pranab Mukherjee promises more rural banks.

Indian Air force is looking for fifth generation aircraft

BANGALORE – Air Chief Marshal PV Naik has said that increasing and mordernising the fleet is the primary focus of Indian Air Force (IAF).

Addressing a press conference at the Aero India 2011 here on Thursday, Air Chief Marshal Naik said: “We are looking for a fifth generation aircraft. We are looking for an aircraft which …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Now, free sex disease tests for Valentine’s Day clubbers

LONDON – This Valentine’s Day health experts will offer clubbers free sex disease tests.

The medics will mingle with dancers on Monday and offer to check them for chlamydia.

While the women will be asked for a vaginal swab, men will provide a urine sample.

Results will be … Original source on Gaea Times at : Now, free sex disease tests for Valentine’s Day clubbers.

Young lovers end life in Agra

AGRA – Even as the world got ready to celebrate love on Valentine’s Day, a Hindu boy and a Muslim girl ended their lives in the city of the Taj following objections from their families to their relationship.

While the boy, 19-year-old Sonu shot himself, Faujiya alias Shilpi hanged herself, but her family members have … Original article on : Young lovers end life in Agra.

Patil opens World Philatelic Exhibition in Delhi

NEW DELHI – The President, Pratibha Devisingh Patil, on Saturday, opened the India Post organized INDIPEX 2011,a World Philatelic Exhibition at Pragati Maidan here.

The week-long event will be from February 12 to February 18.

The exhibition has been organized in collaboration …. Read the original article  : here.

UK to withdraw counter-terrorism project funds to end multiculturalism

LONDON – The British government plans to withdraw over 1.2 million pounds in funds allotted for its controversial counter-terrorism projects.

According to The Telegraph, the first target of the new policy would be the “Street Project”, based at Brixton Mosque in South London, which has …. Original source  : UK to withdraw counter-terrorism project funds to end multiculturalism.

‘Love conquers all’ – is it the truth or just a fairytale?

WASHINGTON – A professor of religion examines how romance novels and many other forms of popular culture emphasize the power of love to make all things turn out right, in the end.

“Given its prominence and power in pop culture today, we should consider how romance may be a religion …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

No clean chit to Karmapa: Himachal CM Dhumal

SHIMLA – Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal on Saturday said that no clean chit has been given to the Karmapa Lama, Ugyen Trinley Dorje, in a financial irregularities case.

“We can’t give him (the Karmapa) a clean chit as probe by central agencies is still on. Karmapa has neither been given a …. Source article  : No clean chit to Karmapa: Himachal CM Dhumal.

Jealous woman jailed for biting off partner’s ear and feeding it to her dog!

LONDON – A 44-year-old women in the UK reportedly bit off part of her partner’s ear out of jealously.

June Thomson attacked her former partner Trevor Wainman, 45, in a jealous rage after a barmaid bought him a drink for his birthday.

Thomson, of Hull, East Yorkshire, punched him in the face … Read more >>>.

Russian scientists plot medical emergency for Mars astronauts

LONDON – Russian scientists are preparing for the medical emergency on simulated astronauts when they will land on Mars prepared in a Moscow laboratory.

The tragic accident, which could range from a broken leg to serious brain trauma, will test the volunteers of the Mars-500 …. Read the original article  : here.

Egypt’s military says it is not a substitute for a legitimate government

CAIRO – Egypt’s military has said it will not act as a substitute for a “legitimate” government following President Hosni Mubarak resignation.

A military spokesman said the armed forces would announce measures and arrangements to introduce the changes Egyptians want.

He also … Original source on Gaea Times at : Egypt’s military says it is not a substitute for a legitimate government.

Malaysian govt. accepts Malay Chinese proposal on foreign workers

KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Government has reportedly accepted proposals of Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) to address problems like labour shortage and the strict process of hiring foreign workers faced by small and medium-scale enterprises.

The Star quoted MCA President Dr Chua Soi …. Read the original article  : Malaysian govt. accepts Malay Chinese proposal on foreign workers.

Malay Indians express outrage over sale of slippers bearing Hindu deity impressions

KUALA LUMPUR – A number of Indian religious organisations in Malaysia have expressed outrage over the sale of slippers bearing impressions of a Hindu deity.

The Star quoted the Malaysia Hindu Sangam (MHS) President R.S. Mohan Shan as saying that the act selling slippers with …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

10pc employees believe dating colleagues can cut chances of promotion

NEW YORK – A new survey has revealed that many people steer clear of dating heir colleagues for the fear that it may hamper their chances of a promotion.

The survey shows seven of 10 employees believe openly dating a colleague could hurt their job security or a shot at … Read : 10pc employees believe dating colleagues can cut chances of promotion.

Abraham Lincoln wanted to deport slaves to British colonies, reveals book

LONDON – Late President of the United States Abraham Lincoln, who is revered as the great champion of America’s slaves, had wanted to deport slaves to toil in British colonies in the Caribbean, reveals a new book.

The book, entitled ‘Colonisation After [..] Read the original article: here.

Ex- Liberian President Taylor hid 400 million dollars: Wikileaks

MONROVIA – Former Liberian President Charles Taylor might have hidden as much as 400 million dollars of his wealth from prosecutors, the whistle blowing website Wikileaks have revealed.

US officials were told that if Taylor is found guilty of war crimes, [..] Read the original article: here.

‘Assange helped Victoria Police with Internet child pornography probe

MELBOURNE – The lawyer representing Wikileaks founder Julian Assange has claimed that the Australian-born journalist had helped Victoria Police with an Internet child pornography investigation in the 1990s.

“In 1993, when Assange was in his early … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Assange helped Victoria Police with Internet child pornography probe.

Krishna links security with enhancing economic development in UNSC

NEW YORK – External Affairs Minister S M Krishna has said that there is a link between enhancing economic development and the goals of international peace and security.

Addressing a high-level meeting on the linkages …. Source  : Krishna links security with enhancing economic development in UNSC.

Anti-Terrorism Court issues arrest warrant for Musharraf in Benazir murder case

RAWALPINDI – Rawalpindi’s Anti-Terrorism Court has issued an arrest warrant for former President Pervez Musharraf in the Benazir Bhutto assassination case.

The ATC issued the arrest warrant on Saturday, Geo TV reports.

Former Prime Minister Benazir was targeted in a gun and bomb attack as she was … Original source on Gaea Times at : Anti-Terrorism Court issues arrest warrant for Musharraf in Benazir murder case.

Andy Warhol self-portrait goes on display for the first time in 30 yrs

LONDON – A self-portrait of Andy Warhol, which is expected to fetch 5 million pounds in auction, has been displayed for the first time in more than 30 years.

The 6ft-square work has been in a private collection since 1974 but is to be auctioned at Christie’s in London next week, reports the Daily Mail.

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

Assange lawyer gives graphic description of ‘missionary position’ in sex case

LONDON – Julian Assange’s lawyer has said that the accusation of sexual assault made against WikiLeaks founder by one of his two alleged Swedish victims describes “the missionary position”.

However, Assange has denied such an attack taking place.

Geoffrey Robertson QC told the extradition hearing, at Belmarsh magistrate’s court in south London, that any resistance had been …. Source article  : Assange lawyer gives graphic description of ‘missionary position’ in sex case.

188-yr-old shipwrecked whaler linked to ‘Moby-Dick’ discovered

LONDON – Marine archaeologists have discovered a 19th-century shipwrecked whaling ship ‘Two Brothers’ – which went down in 1823 – from the Hawaiian waters.

Slammed into coral reef about 600 miles northwest of Honolulu, the vessel was skippered by Captain George Pollard Jr.

Two years earlier, Pollard commanded another ship that was rammed by a whale and [..] Read the original article: here.

India concerned over China’s relationship with Pak : Rao

NEW YORK – Expressing New Delhi’s concerns over Beijing’s relationship with Islamabad, Indian Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao underlined that China needs to be more sensitive in its dealings with Pakistan.

During her talk at The New School in New York, Rao said that India was not against Pakistan’s relationship with other countries, but New Delhi … Read more : India concerned over China’s relationship with Pak : Rao.

Pakistan “very satisfied with outcome” of meeting with India at Thimpu

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has expressed its satisfaction with the outcome of the Foreign Secretary-level meeting with India, which was held recently on the sidelines of SAARC meeting at Thimpu.

Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir said he held a very constructive meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister SM Krishna at the Indo-Pak bilateral meeting.

“I was assured …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan “very satisfied with outcome” of meeting with India at Thimpu.

Krishna assures all help to duped Tri-Valley University students

NEW YORK – Assuring all help to the duped students of California-based Tri-Valley University (TVU), External Affairs Minister S M Krishna has said that the government through its Embassy in Washington and consulates in America has been working closely with students, who have unfortunately got caught in the scam.

“I must tell you, at the outset …. Source  : Krishna assures all help to duped Tri-Valley University students.

Clinton pressurised me to grant diplomatic immunity to Davis: Qureshi

LAHORE – Former Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has said US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton had pressurised him to sign a summary giving diplomatic immunity to double-murder accused American official Raymond Davis, but he refused to oblige.

Talking to officials during his farewell visit to the Foreign Ministry, Qureshi said Clinton had telephoned and … Read more : Clinton pressurised me to grant diplomatic immunity to Davis: Qureshi.

China to cut down smoking scenes in films, TV dramas

NEW DELHI – China’s film and broadcast watchdog has issued a circular ordering to cut down smoking scenes in films and TV dramas.

The decision was taken after complaints last month about the nation’s failure to honor the tobacco-control commitment of the World Health Organization (WHO), reports English.news.cn.

“Frequent smoking scenes in films and TV dramas do …. Original source  : China to cut down smoking scenes in films, TV dramas.

Specially-abled Delhi artists present dance show to promote equality

NEW DELHI – Giving a message of dignity and equality, the specially-abled artists presented colourful dance performance on wheelchairs in New Delhi.

Despite being confined to the wheel chairs, the physically disabled performers from the charitable organisation Ability Unlimited Foundation held audiences spellbound here on Saturday with their performances.

They have earlier staged shows in Italy, England …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Specially-abled Delhi artists present dance show to promote equality.

Imphal students protest against suspension of classes

IMPHAL – In a bid to re-start the suspended classes, Manipur students taged a protest here to end the ongoing tussle between teachers and the government.

The teachers under the banner of Council of Teachers’ Association (COTA) suspended classes over the demand for the implementation of Sixth Central Pay in total.

Teachers from primary to secondary levels …. Source  : Imphal students protest against suspension of classes.

WB Police seize arms and ammunitions from CPI-M leaders

BURDWAN – West Bengal Police have seized a huge cache of arms and ammunitions from Burdwan district.

The arms recovered were a U.S. made 9 mm pistol, one sten carbine gun, and around 35 rounds of cartridges from the house of Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-M) leaders Najim Sekh and Atar Sekh on Saturday.

“We recovered some …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Protests in Siliguri over death of two GJM members

SILIGURI – The recent killing of two Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) supporters triggered off a protest in West Bengal’s Siliguri District.

The enraged GJM activists later called for an indefinite shutdown in the wake of the killings, and held massive protests across the region on Saturday.

The GJM members were killed when the security personnel opened fire … Original article on : Protests in Siliguri over death of two GJM members.

Forest officials rescue 39 smuggled tortoises in Nainital

NAINITAL – Uttarakhand forest officials rescued 39 smuggled tortoises and arrested four smugglers in Nainital.

Acting on a tip off, the forest officials on Saturday carried on a raid and arrested two smugglers, who had kept 37 live tortoises hidden in water tubs and jute bags.

Officials also recovered two more tortoises from two men, who kept … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Forest officials rescue 39 smuggled tortoises in Nainital.

UK scouts’ Kate Middleton kidnapping exercise draws outrage

LONDON – A Scout troop in Britain has been slammed after it staged the mock kidnapping of Prince William’s bride-to-be Kate Middleton by terrorists.

Almost 300 children in Amersham, Bucks, watched in horror as the royal bride-to-be, played by an older scout, was dragged away from her prince by balaclava clad gang, reports the Daily Mail.

Prince … Read more : UK scouts’ Kate Middleton kidnapping exercise draws outrage.

US church’s ‘have more sex’ ads for married couples draws ire

WASHINGTON – A church in the United States has left some people upset by putting up billboards urging married couples to have more sex.

However, lead pastor Heath Mooneyham of Ignite Church, Joplin, Mo., said the message is all about love, and God’s purpose for it, which includes sex, reports ABC News.

The billboards – one of …. Source article  : US church’s ‘have more sex’ ads for married couples draws ire.

US pressure on Pak to free murder-accused Davis will be “counterproductive”: Bashir

ISLAMABAD – Any American pressure on Pakistan to release double-murder accused US diplomat Raymond Davis will be “counterproductive”, Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir has said.

At a Foreign Office briefing, Bashir noted that the United States and Pakistan had a long history, and said that it was “unthinkable” that a single incident should strain their relationship. …. Read the original article  : US pressure on Pak to free murder-accused Davis will be “counterproductive”: Bashir.

Wills, Kate to spend part of their honeymoon in Scotland?

LONDON – Prince William and Kate Middleton may spend part of their honeymoon at Balmoral, which is in Scotland.

Sources have claimed that the two are likely to visit the Queen’s Scottish estate for a few days before flying to another romantic destination.

“Because William is based in Wales and they are getting married in England, it … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Wills, Kate to spend part of their honeymoon in Scotland?.

Fighter procurement for dummies: Ashley Tellis does it again!

NEW DELHI – Amongst the strategic analysts on the Indo-US horizon, few are as incisive and diligent as Ashley J Tellis. In this context Tellis has the advantages of an Indian background and, consequently, a profound insight into India’s security issues. Uniquely, he is as much at home on Raisina Hill as in Foggy Bottom …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Fighter procurement for dummies: Ashley Tellis does it again!.

NY school brands Justin Bieber fans’ tribute T-shirts ‘gang related’

LONDON – A group of Justin Bieber fans were sent home from a New York City school after their tribute T-shirts to the teen idol were branded ‘gang related.’

The four teenagers had worn them to school before heading to the theatre to see Bieber’s new film, ‘Justin Bieber: Never Say Never.’

When the girls showed up … Read : NY school brands Justin Bieber fans’ tribute T-shirts ‘gang related’.

Musharraf to defy Pak court’s non-bailable arrest warrant in Benazir murder case

LONDON – Former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf will not comply with a non-bailable arrest warrant issued against him by an Islamabad court over the assassination of ex-prime minister Benazir Bhutto, his London spokesman has said.

“No, he won’t be going back for this hearing,” the New York Post quoted Fawad Chaudhry, a spokesman for Musharraf’s All …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Musharraf to defy Pak court’s non-bailable arrest warrant in Benazir murder case.

‘We are trying to seek general autonomy for Tibet’, says Dalai Lama

JAIPUR – Denying the accusations of the Chinese Government, Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama has said that an attempt is being made to seek general autonomy for entire Tibet.

Addressing a gathering on ‘Ethics for the new Millennium’ in Jaipur on Saturday, Dalai Lama said one of the accusations that the Chinese Government has levelled …. Original article  : ‘We are trying to seek general autonomy for Tibet’, says Dalai Lama.

US calls off Afghan-Pak trilateral meeting in retaliation to Davis detention issue

WASHINGTON – The United States has postponed a high-level trilateral meeting among the US, Pakistan and Afghanistan that was scheduled to take place later this month, in what seems to be a retaliation against the continued judicial remand of double-murder accused US diplomat Raymond Davis in Lahore.

The trilateral talks, in which top officials were to …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US calls off Afghan-Pak trilateral meeting in retaliation to Davis detention issue.

Chhattisgarh Police arrest two women Maoists

KANKER – Chhattisgarh Police have taken into custody two women Maoists during a search operation in Kanker district.

The security personnel nabbed the ultras near a forest area on Saturday evening.

“During the search, near a forest a group of people was spotted. One of them, who acted as guard, began shouting after seeing the security personnel. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hindus call Pope’s Roma gesture “a step in the right direction”

NEVADA – Hindus have described call of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI for solidarity towards Roma (Gypsies) “a step in the right direction”.

In his Sunday appearance in St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, Pope Benedict reportedly issued an appeal for more solidarity towards Roma people in the presence of parents of Roma children who were … Original source on Gaea Times at : Hindus call Pope’s Roma gesture “a step in the right direction”.

Mughal Gardens to be opened to the public from Tuesday

NEW DELHI – The Mughal Garden of Rashtrapati Bhavan will be opened for public viewing from February 15 to March 16.

It will remain closed on Mondays for maintenance.

Entry into the Gardens will be open only up to 4 p.m.

The main Mughal Garden is in bloom having annual flowers such as roses, lilies, tulips, double pansy …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mughal Gardens to be opened to the public from Tuesday.

Government treats militancy with kid gloves: RSS leader

MATHURA – Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) spokesperson Ram Madhav has accused the Central Government of tackling the issue of militants with kid gloves.

Addressing a public meet here on Sunday, Madhav said: “Eliminating terrorism, means eliminating the terrorist physically. You cannot guess who said this. General Musharraf who was a dictator of Pakistan says this. Though … Read more >>>.

Valentine’s Day fever ensures brisk flower business in Varanasi

VARANASI – Valentine’s Day fever has gripped the city of Varanasi again.holesalers of flowers, in particular are doing brisk business.

Ram Prasad, a wholesaler, said “On Valentine’s Day, we see bumper sale as most of our flowers are sold out in the market.”

For several florists, the occasion is an opportunity to make profit. The price of …. Source article  : Valentine’s Day fever ensures brisk flower business in Varanasi.

Trapped Chilean miners were denied blow-up sex dolls in case of jealousy

LONDON – The Chilean miners, who were trapped underground for nine weeks, are said to have been provided cannabis and porn, but no blow-up sex dolls – reason being they might cause jealousy.

A new book, called ‘The 33′, claims that in order to keep the spirits of the 33 Chilean miners up, their families would … Original article on : Trapped Chilean miners were denied blow-up sex dolls in case of jealousy.

Fans storm to buy Royal Shakespeare Company costumes

LONDON – Thousands of people queued up for hours to buy the Royal Shakespeare Company costumes, which have been put on sale at its rehearsal rooms in Stratford-upon-Avon, England.

The 15,000 items up for grabs from its costume department include outfits and accessories once worn onstage by the likes of Sir Ian McKellen, David Tennant, Charles …. Source  : Fans storm to buy Royal Shakespeare Company costumes.

Chinese railway minister sacked over corruption

BEIJING – China’s Railways Minister, Liu Zhijun, has been sacked on charges of corruption, which are being investigated.

Zhijun has been China’s Railways minister since 2003, The Telegraph reports.

Though no details are available on what charges are being probed, the government has replaced Liu with 62-year-old former Customs chief, Sheng Guangzu.

China plans to …. Source article  : Chinese railway minister sacked over corruption.

Former Taliban member visits UK for secret insurgency-ending talks

LONDON – A former senior Taliban member who is said to be in close contact with the group’s leader Mullah Omar, is reportedly in Britain for insurgency ending negotiations.

Mullah Abdul Salaam Zaeef, a member of the Taliban Government before the 9/11 terror attacks on the United States, has met senior British Government officials amid … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Former Taliban member visits UK for secret insurgency-ending talks.

UK MP’s Russian ’spy’ assistant offered Kremlin TV role

LONDON – Katia Zatuliveter, an assistant to a UK MP and an alleged spy, has now been offered a job at the Kremlin’s English-language TV news propaganda channel.

Zatuliveter, a 25-year-old former parliamentary assistant for Mike Hancock, a Liberal Democrat MP, was arrested in December and ordered deported on MI5’s advice after it was decided that …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : UK MP’s Russian ’spy’ assistant offered Kremlin TV role.

How laughter keeps Michelle Obama’s love life alive

LONDON – Ever wondered how US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle keep their relationship fresh even after 19 years of marriage? Here’s the simple answer- they keep each other smiling.

On the occasion of Valentine’s Day, Michelle revealed that she and Obama maintain the romance in their marriage with ‘a lot of laughing’ – …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : How laughter keeps Michelle Obama’s love life alive.

Now, men are getting broody too!

LONDON – A new study has found that men today are likelier than women to want to settle down and start a family.

The research says men are getting broody too. And single men are more likely to dream of having children than women, reports the Daily Mail.

And the experts believe it’s all down to greater … Read more »»».

Malik asks for details of Pak singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s Delhi airport detention

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Interior Minister Rehman Malik has reportedly stepped in personally to look into Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s detention at New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport over undeclared foreign currency.

According to the Dawn, Malik has spoken to Pakistan’s High Commissioner to India Shahid Malik, and asked him to monitor the matter closely. …. Source article  : Malik asks for details of Pak singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s Delhi airport detention.

Over 4 in 10 Republicans want better candidates to choose from

WASHINGTON – Over four in ten supporters of the Republican party (43 percent) have said that they would like to have a better field of potential candidates to choose from for the 2012 presidential elections.

Taking part in the annual Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Washington, barely half the 3742 attendees said they’re “generally … Read : Over 4 in 10 Republicans want better candidates to choose from.

Pak Taliban demands death for Raymond Davis

MIRANSHAH – Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has said that the government should execute double murder-accused US official Raymond Davis, or hand him over to them.

“We demand that the Pakistani government hang Raymond Davis or otherwise hand him over to us. We will decide his fate,” the Daily Times quoted TTP spokesman Azam Tariq, as saying. …. Read the original article  : Pak Taliban demands death for Raymond Davis.

Pak politicians criticize Qureshi over his remarks on Raymond Davis

LAHORE – Several Pakistani politicians have criticized former Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s stance that the double murder-accused US official Raymond Davis could not be given diplomatic immunity.

Law Minister Babar Awan, in an obvious reference to Quereshi’s statement, said that the government would not allow anybody to become hero by politicizing the issue.

Without naming … Read more : Pak politicians criticize Qureshi over his remarks on Raymond Davis.

Fresh snowfall in Kufri delights tourists

KUFRI – Tourists have expressed delight over the arrival of fresh snow in Kufri.

Shailendra, a tourist, said “I am seeing this kind of snowfall for the first time and it’s overwhelming. I am really feeling good after coming here and we are enjoying,”

The temperature has fallen sharply in the region, after the snowfall.

Vijay Singh, a …. Original article  : Fresh snowfall in Kufri delights tourists.

Prince William to sift through 1,000 Valentine’s cards!

LONDON – Prince William will be sifting through a huge pile of Valentine’s cards, sent by children whose parents are in the British Armed Forces, on Monday.

Campaigner Sarah Bennett Thurston and her three sons will deliver around 1,000 cards to the soldier prince and his fiancee Kate Middleton, reports the Daily Star.

They hope it will …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Lady Louise Windsor ’so excited’ to be Kate’s bridesmaid

LONDON – The Queen’s youngest granddaughter Lady Louise Windsor is said to be excited after being asked to accompany Kate Middleton down the aisle as her bridesmaid.

“Louise is thrilled to be chosen. She is absolutely cock-a-hoop and can’t stop chattering about it. She’ll look absolutely radiant on the day. Her mother is so proud,” the …. Original source  : Lady Louise Windsor ’so excited’ to be Kate’s bridesmaid.

Oz Coalition takes poll-winning lead over ruling Labour Party

SYDNEY – The latest Herald/Nielsen poll shows the opposition Coalition leading the ruling Labor on a two-party preferred basis by 54 per cent to 46 per cent, a swing of four per cent since last August’s election.

On a primary basis, only a third of voters would select Labor as their first choice if an election … Read more : Oz Coalition takes poll-winning lead over ruling Labour Party.

UN envoy says Pak backs reconciliation bid for peace and stability in Afghanistan

NEW YORK – Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Abdullah Hussain Haroon, has said that his country supports an Afghan-led reconciliation process in Afghanistan to pave the way for durable peace and stability in the war-torn country.

“Pakistan wants durable peace and stability in Afghanistan,” the Daily Times quoted Haroon, as saying, while participating in a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : UN envoy says Pak backs reconciliation bid for peace and stability in Afghanistan.

Oz property listing video featuring scantily clad model goes viral

MELBOURNE – A video for a property listing in Australia has gone viral around the world after it featured a scantily clad model.

Gold Coast real estate agency NEO Property gained much attention after it emailed its newest property listing of a house at Binda Place, Sorrento, to 100 clients.

The video clip comes complete with music, …. Read the original article  : Oz property listing video featuring scantily clad model goes viral.

1m kids in UK ’suffer abuse’

LONDON – Almost a million children in UK have suffered abuse or neglect, a survey has revealed.

According to the poll of 2,200-plus children, one in five youngsters aged 11 to 17 have been beaten up, hit with weapons, raped or seriously neglected.

“Physical violence, neglect and forced sex are harming the lives of hundreds of thousands …. Source article  : 1m kids in UK ’suffer abuse’.

President, Vice President greet nation on Milad-Un-Nabi

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Devisingh Patil and Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari have greeted the nation on the auspicious occasion of Milad-Un-Nabi, which is being observed tomorrow to mark the birth of Prophet Mohammad.

President Patil in her message said: “On the auspicious occasion of Milad-Un-Nabi, the birthday of the Holy Prophet Mohammed, I convey … Original article on : President, Vice President greet nation on Milad-Un-Nabi.

Budget Session: Cabinet approves President Patil’s address to Parliament

NEW DELHI – The Union Cabinet on Tuesday gave its nod to President Pratibha Devisingh Patil’s address to the joint sitting of Parliament on the opening day of the Budget Session on February 21.

The cabinet gave its approval at a meeting chaired by the Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, which will outline the United Progressive …. Original article  : Budget Session: Cabinet approves President Patil’s address to Parliament.

Kerry on ‘fire-fighting’ trip to Pak to “reaffirm partnership” amid Davis standoff

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration has dispatched Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman John F. Kerry to Pakistan to try to repair the deteriorating US-Pak relations in the wake of double-murder accused US diplomat Raymond Davis’ detention issue.

The urgently organized trip, which has been confirmed by committee staff and a senior US official, is the latest … Read more >>>.

More than half of Americans consider China as world’s leading economic power

WASHINGTON – A majority of Americans consider China as the world’s leading economic power.

In a recent poll conducted by Gallup, fifty-two percent chose China while 32 percent chose the United States as the world’s top economic power. Seven percent pointed to Japan, while the remaining options, that included Russia and India, were chosen by three … Read more : More than half of Americans consider China as world’s leading economic power.

Income Tax returns: ‘I have nothing to hide’, says former CJI

NEW DELHI – National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) chairperson and former Chief Justice of India, K.G. Balakrishnan, reacting to the controversy over his unwillingness to disclose his Income Tax returns has said he has nothing to hide.

“I wrote to authorities not to disclose my I-T returns because it has my PAN number and bank account … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Income Tax returns: ‘I have nothing to hide’, says former CJI.

Seven charged by US for ‘aiding Taliban efforts against America’

WASHINGTON – Seven people including two Americans have been charged by the United States for conspiring to aid the Taliban, ccording to US officials, two Americans, identified as Alwar Pouryan and Oded Orbach were arrested in Romania for conspiring to sell missiles to protect Taliban-run heroin laboratories in Afghanistan.

The other five defendants named as Maroun …. Source article  : Seven charged by US for ‘aiding Taliban efforts against America’.

World’s first skyscraper ‘Jericho tower’ built to intimidate masses

ISRAEL – Israeli archaeologists have said that the Jericho tower, which was constructed 11,000-years-ago, was built to promote farming and to entice people to abandon their nomadic ways and to settle down.

Long before its Biblical walls came tumbling down, Jericho’s residents were being enticed to give up hunting and gathering and start farming for …. Read the original article  : here.

Displaced persons from India- Bangladesh border stage a protest rally in Agartala

AGARTALA – Hundreds of displaced persons from the India-Bangladesh border region in northeastern state of Tripura staged a rally at Agartala, the capital of Tripura to pressurise the state government to consider and implement their demands for apt rehabilitation.

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

Subal … Original source on Gaea Times at : Displaced persons from India- Bangladesh border stage a protest rally in Agartala.

On death anniversary, Ghalib’s haveli languishes in squalor

NEW DELHI – Mirza Ghalib, the best-known of the Urdu poets of Delhi during last Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar’s rule, wrote: “Hum ne mana ke taghaful na karoge lekin/Khak ho jayenge hum tumko khabar hone tak! (You will not be indifferent, I know/ Nevertheless, dust I’ll be by the time you get my news).”

[..] Read the original article: here.

Women fear stereotyping by male service providers

WASHINGTON – Women prefer female service providers in situations where they might fall prey to stereotypes about their math and science abilities.

“One of the most widely held stereotypes in North America is that women’s competence and aptitude in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) domains is less than men’s,” a study’s authors wrote. …. Read the original article  : here.

Pune farmers protest to lift the ban on onion export

PUNE – Hundreds of farmers of Maharashtra in western India, engaged in cultivating onions, gathered at Pune to stage a protest rally demanding withdrawal of ban on export of their produce.

Farmers said that the government has failed to lift the embargo on export though onion prices have now come down in the domestic market …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pune farmers protest to lift the ban on onion export.

Pakistani stalker of JFK’s granddaughter wants to go to trial

NEW YORK – The Pakistani man, who has been stalking President John F Kennedy’s granddaughter, wants to take the case to court.

Naeem Ahmed, 41, has told a court appointed psychiatrist that he wants to take his case before a jury, meaning 20-year-old Tatiana Schlossberg would have to testify against him in a Manhattan courtroom.

Ahmed has … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pakistani stalker of JFK’s granddaughter wants to go to trial.

Fritzl’s secret dungeon to be welded shut after becoming teen party venue

LONDON – Josef Fritzl’s underground cellar, where he sexually abused his daughter Elisabeth for 24 years, is to be sealed with a welded steel door by Austrian authorities – because teenagers have been partying in the secret dungeon.

The cellar has been violated in the months before contractors move in to demolish the house, reports the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Davis affair cost Qureshi his job: Pakistani daily

ISLAMABAD – The refusal of Shah Mahmood Qureshi to “recognise Raymond Davis as a diplomat or accord him immunity ultimately cost him his job” as the foreign minister, a Pakistani daily said Tuesday.

An editorial in the News International Tuesday said: “An incident on a Lahore street in which three people died, two shot and …. Read the original article  : here.

UK father raped teenage daughter to have baby for infertile girlfriend

LONDON – An English father, who repeatedly raped his 16-year-old daughter, has said he wanted her to provide a child for his interfile girlfriend.

The 46-year-old from Cambridgeshire village groomed and then abused the girl, who has the mental age of a 7-year-old, on a daily basis after his wife left him three years ago, reports … Original source on Gaea Times at : UK father raped teenage daughter to have baby for infertile girlfriend.

Four Maoists surrender in Chhattisgarh

BASTAR – Four Maoists have been surrendered before the top brass of the district police at Jagdalpur in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region.

Superintendent of Police, Bastar, Sundar Raj P. has stated that the four Maoists Jan Militia members-Sonaram Yadav, Dharma Nage, Massa Netam and Tulsiram Netam residents of village Barda under Badedonger police station area of Bastar …. Original source  : Four Maoists surrender in Chhattisgarh.

After Valentine’s Day mush celebrate Singles Awareness Day today

WELLINGTON – Right after Valentine’s Day, comes Singles Awareness Day, when people celebrate their freedom and possibilities.

Wellington accountant Hilary Combes, the founder of SaRC – Singles are Really Cool – says Wellington is a hive of activity for single people.

“We have more than 560 people on our mailing list, and about 100 in our social …. Original article  : After Valentine’s Day mush celebrate Singles Awareness Day today.

Why do people pay so much for celebrity items?

WASHINGTON – Why would someone pay a fortune for an item that had belonged to Jackie Kennedy or for a celebrity’s footstool?

Study authors from Yale and Bar-llan Universities, seeking to find an explanation, researched the concept of “contagion” — the belief that a person’s essence can be transferred onto an object through contact.
…. Read the original article  : here.

India’a Dornier aircraft in Seychelles for anti-piracy operations

NEW DELHI – India has given to Seychelles a Dornier maritime reconnaissance aircraft for surveillance and anti-piracy missions in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)that is plagued by piracy threats in and around the Gulf of Aden.

The fixed-wing aircraft will start its surveillance operation in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of Seychelles from this week, … Read more : India’a Dornier aircraft in Seychelles for anti-piracy operations.

Obama proposes 3.1-bn-dollar US aid to Pak in fiscal year 2012

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration has proposed a staggering amount of 3.1-billion-dollars, as financial assistance to Pakistan in the 2012 budget, despite its standoff with the Asian nation on double murder-accused US official Raymond Davis’ detention issue.

The administration’s assistance for Pakistan is broken up into two parts, the “enduring core part”- meaning long-term assistance programs- …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Obama proposes 3.1-bn-dollar US aid to Pak in fiscal year 2012.

Kerry hints at possibility of bill being moved in Senate ‘against US aid to Pak’

LAHORE – US Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman John F. Kerry has hinted at the possibility of some senators moving a bill for cutting off aid to Pakistan in case both countries did not act sensibly on the issue of double-murder accused US diplomat Raymond Davis.

Talking to media persons at the residence of the US … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Kerry hints at possibility of bill being moved in Senate ‘against US aid to Pak’.

Anonymous hackers release ‘decrypted version of Stuxnet worm’ online: Security experts

WASHINGTON – US security experts have claimed that the computer hackers’ collective Anonymous has released a decrypted version of the Stuxnet worm that had affected Iran’s nuclear power program in December last year, online.

The ones and zeroes that make up the code called the Stuxnet worm, described as the most sophisticated cyberweapon ever created, were … Read : Anonymous hackers release ‘decrypted version of Stuxnet worm’ online: Security experts.

US “top lawyer of last resort” joins Assange to “protect new electronic media vigorously”

LONDON – Alan Dershowitz, America’s “top lawyer of last resort”, has said that he has joined Wikileaks founder Julian Assange’s legal team to “protect new electronic media vigorously.”

The US is trying to build a conspiracy case against Assange for masterminding the release of hundreds of secret US diplomatic cables that led to controversies across the …. Original source  : US “top lawyer of last resort” joins Assange to “protect new electronic media vigorously”.

Egypt’s new military leader feared political reform could ‘erode central govt. power’: Wikileaks

CAIRO – Field Marshal Mohamad Tantawi, the head of the Higher Military Council that took control of Egypt last week, had opposed political reform because he believed that it ‘eroded central government power,’ the whistleblower Wikileaks has revealed.

The Telegraph quoted the secret US diplomatic cables released by Wikileaks as saying that the military leader …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Egypt’s new military leader feared political reform could ‘erode central govt. power’: Wikileaks.

Iraqi defector admits lying about Iraq WMD to get rid of Saddam Hussein regime

WASHINGTON – An Iraqi defector whose claims that the Saddam Hussein regime possessed biological weapons of mass destruction had persuaded the US to invade the oil rich country in 2003, has admitted for the first time he had “fabricated” some facts to get rid of the autocratic regime.

Rafid Ahmed al-Janabi’s claims had convinced former … Read : Iraqi defector admits lying about Iraq WMD to get rid of Saddam Hussein regime.

China’s ‘naked officials’ to be subjected to more scrutiny

NEW DELHI – A senior discipline official in China has revealed that “naked officials”, the name given to public servants whose wives have taken residence abroad and who are suspected to be more prone to corruption, will soon be subjected to more scrutiny.

Zhang Xiaoying, head of the Party discipline inspection commission of the Beijing Municipal …. Original source  : China’s ‘naked officials’ to be subjected to more scrutiny.

Egyptian govt. exploited national infrastructure to cripple Internet: Experts

CAIRO – Interviews with many Egyptian engineers, as well as an examination of data collected around the world during the five-day Internet blackout in the country during the anti-government protests, indicate that the Hosni Mubarak government had exploited a devastating combination of vulnerabilities in the national infrastructure.ccording to the New York Times, the government’s attack … Read : Egyptian govt. exploited national infrastructure to cripple Internet: Experts.

India not unduly worried over China’s military modernisation: Antony

NEW DELHI – India Wednesday said it was “not unduly worried” over China’s military modernisation, though the neighbour’s defence budget was a matter of concern.

“Modernisation of China’s armed forces and its ever increasing military spending is a matter of serious concern. But we are not unduly worried because what we need to do …. Read the original article  : here.

Over 100 Indian fishermen detained in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO – : More than 100 Indian fishermen have been detained in Sri Lanka on Tuesday for allegedly straying into the Lankan waters.

The Indian fishermen were intercepted by the Sri Lankan fishermen off the coast of Point pedro and later they were handed over to the Sri Lankan police.

The fishermen will be …. Original source  : Over 100 Indian fishermen detained in Sri Lanka.

3 out of 4 Brits are gambling addicts

LONDON – A survey has found that the number of gamblers in Britain has risen, with three out of four being gambling addicts.

The survey by the Gambling Commission found 73 percent of the adult population have gambled in the past year compared with 68 percent in 2007.

As the Gambling Act came into force, the number …. Original source  : 3 out of 4 Brits are gambling addicts.

US no-fly list leaves British Muslim stranded in Canada

TORONTO – Probably in the first such case in international travel, the US no-fly list has left a British man stranded in Canada.

Dawood Hepplewhite, who is a convert to Islam, turned up at Toronto’s Pearson Airport Sunday only to be told that he couldn’t board an Air Transat flight to Britain.
The 30-year-old British …. Read the original article  : US no-fly list leaves British Muslim stranded in Canada.

Nazi 3D ‘dancing girls and sausages’ films are of ‘excellent quality’

MELBOURNE – Aussie director Philippe Mora has uncovered 3D films shot by Nazis that feature dancing girls and sausages.

Mora stumbled upon the films while searching through Germany’s Federal Archives.

The two black-and-white movies were made in 1936 and referred to as ‘raum film’ or ’space film’.

“The films are shot on 35mm – apparently with a prism … Original article on : Nazi 3D ‘dancing girls and sausages’ films are of ‘excellent quality’.

US Embassy denies reports about Davis’ rude behaviour, special treatment in jail

ISLAMABAD – The US Consul General in Lahore has dismissed media reports that double-murder accused US diplomat Raymond Davis and the US officials who visited him in Lahore’s Kot Lakhpat Jail had acted inappropriately.

Consul General Carmela Conroy “strongly refuted reports in some Pakistani newspapers suggesting that Davis and US officials visiting him in prison have … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US Embassy denies reports about Davis’ rude behaviour, special treatment in jail.

I’ll probably be an unbearable grandmother, says Hillary Clinton

LONDON – Hillary Clinton has admitted that she would probably make an ‘unbearable’ grandmother, but she would love it if her newly-married daughter Chelsea were to have children.

The US Secretary of State sat down with Harper’s Bazaar’s March issue to talk Chelsea, grandchildren and handbags.

“Probably an unbearable one – the kind who is saying, ‘Oh, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : I’ll probably be an unbearable grandmother, says Hillary Clinton.

Princess Diana’s bro set to tie the knot

WASHINGTON – Princess Diana’s brother, Charles Spencer, has announced that he is engaged to Canadian philanthropist Karen Gordon.

Spencer will be tying the knot at his ancestral home in Althorp, in central England, less than two months after his nephew Prince William marries Kate Middleton at Westminster Abbey on April 29, reports CBS News.

“Charles, the ninth … Original article on : Princess Diana’s bro set to tie the knot.

‘German Fritzl’ accused of fathering 7 kids with stepdaughter

LONDON – A man labelled the ‘German Josef Fritzl’ has been accused of fathering seven children with his stepdaughter.

The 48-year-old German, identified only as Detlef S., sat stone-faced at the state court in Koblenz as Judge read aloud a letter written by his daughter, now 18, reports the Daily Mail.

“You made my life a living … Read : ‘German Fritzl’ accused of fathering 7 kids with stepdaughter.

Defence Ministry taking action in gun procurement leak: Antony

NEW DELHI – Defence Minister A K Antony has said that his ministry is taking proper corrective and preventive action in the recent leak of a top classified report on procurement of guns from the USA and a high level inquiry has been ordered to probe into the matter.

Talking to reporters on the sidelines of …. Read the original article  : here.

London 7/7 bomber’s secret girlfriend was ‘clueless’ of his ‘radicalization’

LONDON – A secret girlfriend of Shehzad Tanweer, one of the July 7, 2005, London suicide bombers, has told the inquest into the attack that she had no idea about his radicalization.

According to the Daily Mail, the woman, identified as witness A, described how she believed Tanweer had been in love with her.

Tanweer was one …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : London 7/7 bomber’s secret girlfriend was ‘clueless’ of his ‘radicalization’.

Rahat Fateh Ali Khan appears before DRI officials

NEW DELHI – Two days after his release, Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan appeared before the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) officials here on Thursday.

The DRI on Monday released Rahat, a day after he was detained at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport for possessing illegal foreign currency.

Rahat, however, cannot leave India, as his passport …. Source article  : Rahat Fateh Ali Khan appears before DRI officials.

“Jihadist nuclear-armed Pak worst nightmare for India, US, world”: Riedel

WASHINGTON – A jihadist takeover in Pakistan- which is a “real possibility today”- would have devastating consequences not only for the country but the entire world, and particularly for India, says Bruce Riedel in his new book.

“A jihadist Pakistan would emerge through some combination of violence and intimidation. The simplest way would be another military … Original source on Gaea Times at : “Jihadist nuclear-armed Pak worst nightmare for India, US, world”: Riedel.

Naveen Patnaik urges Maoists to release abducted collector

BHUBANESWAR – Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today urged Maoists to release abducted Malkangiri district collector R Vineel Krishna.

“I appeal for early release of the young and energetic officer who is known for his hard work among the poor and tribals,” Patnaik told reporters.

The government is evaluating all options and monitoring the situation … Read : Naveen Patnaik urges Maoists to release abducted collector.

Six-storey building collapses in Gurgaon

GURGAON – : A six-storey building under construction collapsed in Gurgaon, in New Delhi on Thursday.

Two people were trapped in the debris.

Police and fire brigades were rushed to the spot for rescue operations and relief work.

“We had received a call from a police station around 7.20 in the morning that a building …. Original article  : Six-storey building collapses in Gurgaon.

Wills-Kate choose the same photog for big day as Charles and Camilla

LONDON – Prince William and Kate Middleton have chosen Prince Charles and Camilla’s favourite society photographer Hugo Burnand to take the official pictures of their big day, it has emerged.

Burnand, who took the iconic 60th birthday portrait of Charles and was the official photographer at his marriage to Camilla, was selected to document the royal … Original article on : Wills-Kate choose the same photog for big day as Charles and Camilla.

Antony to visit North-East to review security situation, infrastructure development

NEW DELHI – Concerned over the rapid growth of Chinese infrastructure in the region, Defence Minister AK Antony will be on a two-day visit to the North-East to review the security situation there and the progress of infrastructure development, beginning Friday.

India and China had an accord to reduce tensions along their border to respect …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

PML-N firm that Davis case ‘must be dealt in accordance with law of the land’

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Muslim League-N chief Nawaz Sharif has said that his party’s stance on the case of double murder-accused US official Raymond Davis is very clear- that the country’s independent judiciary will decide his fate.

Nawaz made these comments while addressing a news conference at the Punjab House after holding a meeting with US Senate … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : PML-N firm that Davis case ‘must be dealt in accordance with law of the land’.

US concerned for Aung San Suu Kyi’s safety after state media’s “tragic end” threat

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration is concerned about the safety of Burmese opposition politician Aung San Suu Kyi after what it called a “veiled threat” against her in a state-run newspaper article.

U.S. State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley said that the article suggested that if Suu Kyi proceeds with plans to reconstitute her National League for … Original source on Gaea Times at : US concerned for Aung San Suu Kyi’s safety after state media’s “tragic end” threat.

On bookshelf: History, movies, and a window to India (IANS Books This Week)

NEW DELHI – The book shelf this week is a peppy combination of facts, fictions and human triumph.

1. Book: India: A Traveller’s Literary Companion; Written by Chandrahas Choudhury; Published by Harper Collins; Priced at Rs.399.
What might it be like to encounter a country and its landscape not through a travel guide, or …. Read the original article  : here.

Rajasthan NGO gets special status from UN body

JAIPUR – A Rajasthan NGO, Vaagdhara, which works for the empowerment of impoverished and vulnerable groups in the state, is among 17 from across the world to be granted special consultative status by the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

The Banswara-based Vaagdhara, established in 1986-87, is one of three from India to be given [..] Read the original article: here.

Abramovich symbolizes ‘rich debauchery’ which has plagued Russia, says Gorbachev

LONDON – Former Soviet Union President Mikhail Gorbachev has launched a scathing attack on Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, saying that he is a symbol of Russia’s ‘rich debauchery’.

Gorbachev also accused the ruling class in Russia of showing indifference to its people.

“They (the ruling classes) are rich and debauched. Their ideal is to be something …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Abramovich symbolizes ‘rich debauchery’ which has plagued Russia, says Gorbachev.

24 more Indian fishermen arrested in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO – : Twenty four more Indian fishermen have been arrested by the Sri Lankan Police, taking the total number of arrested Indian fishermen to 136 in the past two days.

The fishermen were apprehended along with their boats on Wednesday by a group of local Sri Lankan fishermen and were later handed over to …. Source article  : 24 more Indian fishermen arrested in Sri Lanka.

TRS MLAs create ruckus in Andhra Assembly

HYDERABAD – Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) MLAs created ruckus in the Assembly today as they allegedly manhandled an MLA of the Loksatta party, Jayaprakash Narayan, for not supporting statehood for Telangana.

Earlier, TRS and TDP MLAs disrupted Governor ESL Narasimhan’s speech on the opening day of the Budget Session. They tried to tear his speech copy …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : TRS MLAs create ruckus in Andhra Assembly.

School van falls into canal in Kerala, five dead

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – At least four kindergarten children and a woman attender of a private school were killed after their van fell into a canal at Chakkai area in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday.

The children and the woman were taken out from the Parvathi Puthanar canal by local rescuers and rushed to a hospital, where they were …. Source  : School van falls into canal in Kerala, five dead.

Massachusetts Sen. Scott Brown was sexually abused at 10

NEW YORK – Massachusetts Sen. Scott Brown has revealed that he was repeatedly sexually abused at age 10 by a male camp counselor.

He said he never told anyone out of shame and fear, and even his mother and wife would be hearing about the molestation for the first time, reports the New York Daily News.

“He …. Read the original article  : here.

Pic of Heinrich Himmler moments after suicide to go under the hammer

LONDON – A previously unseen photograph of Heinrich Himmler, taken minutes after he committed suicide, is all set to go under the hammer next month.

The picture, captured by Lance Corporal Guy Adderley of British Intelligence in May 1945, shows the Nazi second-in-command lying dead after biting a cyanide pill, still wearing his trademark round glasses.

After … Read more : Pic of Heinrich Himmler moments after suicide to go under the hammer.

BA worker plotted ‘to blow up jet’ in ‘John Le Carre moment’ at Heathrow

LONDON – Rajib Karim, 30, charged with terror offences held a secret meeting with an extremist at Heathrow airport in a ‘John Le Carre moment’ to plot blowing up a jet, a court in London has heard.

Karim, who worked with British Airways and an associate carried out the secret operation via encrypted and coded e-mails,The …. Original article  : BA worker plotted ‘to blow up jet’ in ‘John Le Carre moment’ at Heathrow.

Obama calls CBS correspondent Lara Logan after sexual assault

NEW YORK – US President Barack Obama on Wednesday called CBS News correspondent Lara Logan, who was sexually assaulted in Cairo last week while covering Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak’s resignation, to express his concern for her condition.

“The president called her late this morning and expressed concern for her condition,” a family friend told The New …. Source article  : Obama calls CBS correspondent Lara Logan after sexual assault.

No comments on clean chit to Karmapa Lama: Himachal Chief Minister

DHARAMSALA – : Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal has said that he has nothing to comment on 17th Karmapa Lama, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, obtaining a clean chit from the Central government agencies vis-???-vis the seizure of huge amount of foreign currency from his monastery.

Interacting with media persons at Dharamsala on Wednesday, he … Read more »».

‘Friends of Grameen Bank’ defend Nobel laureate Yunus from aggressive govt attacks

LONDON – A group of charities led by former Irish President Mary Robinson has come to the defence of Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus after the Bangladeshi government asked the Grameen Bank chief to retire as he has reached the normal retirement age for executives at private banks.

The Friends of Grameen group alleges that he has …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Friends of Grameen Bank’ defend Nobel laureate Yunus from aggressive govt attacks.

Uproar in Orissa assembly over Collector’s abduction

BHUBANESWAR – The Opposition parties disrupted proceedings in the rissa Assembly for the second consecutive day on Friday over abduction of Malkangiri District Collector R Vineel Krishna.

As Speaker Pradip Kumar Amat asked ministers to reply to questions put by treasury bench members, Oppsition MLAs rushed towards his podium shouting slogans at the top of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Uproar in Orissa assembly over Collector’s abduction.

3-yr-old Oz girl blessed by Pope miraculously survives death

SYDNEY – A three-year-old Australian girl, who was blessed by Pope Benedict XVI when he was in Sydney recently, escaped from death in a miraculous incident.

Tuesday afternoon Peter Hill rolled his 22-seater bus on top of his daughter Claire in a queue for petrol on the South Coast.

Lodged under the dual rear wheels of the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 3-yr-old Oz girl blessed by Pope miraculously survives death.

US army’s pocket-sized spy drone disguised as hummingbird unveiled

LONDON – The US army has unveiled a pocket-sized spy drone disguised as a hummingbird – it measures just 16 centimetres and weighs less than an AA battery.

The mini spy plane can fly up to 11 miles an hour and took five years to develop at a cost of four million dollars.

Army chiefs hope to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US army’s pocket-sized spy drone disguised as hummingbird unveiled.

Is Royal wedding making you squeamish? Buy a souvenir sick bag!

LONDON – As the Royal Wedding day approaches closer, various kinds of memorabilia are being flouted here and there, but this one surely takes the cake.

Graphic designer Lydia Leith has screen-printed souvenir ‘Throne Up’ sick bags that are selling for just 3 pounds.

Each bag has an illustration of William and Kate in the outfits … Original source on Gaea Times at : Is Royal wedding making you squeamish? Buy a souvenir sick bag!.

Irish female rapist told to get help for ’sexual aggression’

BRISBANE – An Irish nurse jailed for raping a mother of two in a Brisbane pub toilet has been asked to get help for her ’sexual aggression.’

Anne Marie O’Loughlin has been sentenced her two and half years’ jail, with a recommendation she be released on parole on March 3, 2012, reports Brisbane Times.

Dublin-born 25-year-old, who … Read more : Irish female rapist told to get help for ’sexual aggression’.

US court sentences Defreitas for life over plotting to blow up NY JFK Airport

NEW YORK – A US court has handed down a ‘life term’ sentence to Russell Defreitas, the man convicted of potting to blow up fuel tanks at New York’s JFK Airport.

In December last year, Defreitas’ co-defendant Abdul Kadir, a former member of Guyana’s parliament, was given the same sentence after the pair was convicted …. Source article  : US court sentences Defreitas for life over plotting to blow up NY JFK Airport.

China says US using Internet freedom pitch as pretext for interfering in others’ internal affairs

BEIJING – China has warned the United States not to intrude into other countries’ affairs after Secretary of State Hillary Clinton had urged the world community to allow online freedom, and adopt common standards for internet use.

The BBC quoted Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Ma Zhaoxu as saying that Internet users in his country enjoy freedom …. Original article  : China says US using Internet freedom pitch as pretext for interfering in others’ internal affairs.

Singh apologises to Oz family for helping killer driver flee to India

MELBOURNE – Sukhcharanjit Singh, who has been charged for allegedly helping a killer driver flee Australia on a false passport, has apologised to the family of the man the fugitive killed.

Puneet Puneet remains at large after fleeing Australia in June 2009 while awaiting a pre-sentence hearing over a fatal crash in Melbourne in October 2008.

After …. Original article  : Singh apologises to Oz family for helping killer driver flee to India.

Stallion semen at Kiwi Wildfoods festival will leave one ‘raring to go’

MELBOURNE – A food festival in New Zealand is offering visitors shots of stallion semen, which is said will leave the drinker with as much zest as the animal for a week.

The semen will be served at New Zealand’s famed Hokitika Wildfoods festival next month, and racehorse owner Lindsay Kerslake says it is a “delicacy” … Read more >>.

Karl Rove urges US Republicans to stop falling into Obama ‘birther’ trap

WASHINGTON – Karl Rove, former Deputy Chief of Staff to former US President George W. Bush, has urged Republican Party politicians to avoid falling into the “birther” movement trap, and to stop fueling rumors that President Barack Obama was not born in the US.

“Within our party, we’ve got to be very careful about allowing these …. Original article  : Karl Rove urges US Republicans to stop falling into Obama ‘birther’ trap.

Sexually assaulted CBS reporter Lara Logan could become target for copycat attacks: Ex boss

NEW YORK – Lara Logan’s former boss has said that the sexual assault and brutal beating of the CBS foreign correspondent could “turn her into a target” should she return to war reporting.

Janet Leissner, who ran the CBS Washington bureau for eight years until 2009, said that Logan may risk copycat attacks now that she’s …. Source article  : Sexually assaulted CBS reporter Lara Logan could become target for copycat attacks: Ex boss.

CWG scam: CBI raids five Organising Committee officials

NEW DELHI – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday conducted raids at the premises of five Commonwealth Games Organising Committee officials.

Raids were conducted at the premises of AK Saxena, Nikesh Jain, RP Gupta, KUK Reddy and Sujith Lal. An FIR was also filed against these officials in the CWG overlays scam.

Overlays … Read more >>.

Malkangiri Collector kidnapping: Talks on with Maoists

BHUBANESWAR – After halting anti-Maoist operations, Orissa Government began back channel discussions with the rebels as the 48-hour deadline given by them for the release of Malkangiri District Collector R Vineel Krishna, neared.

State Home Secretary UN Behera said that he had spoken to social activist Swami Agnivesh and some backdoor dialogue was on for … Read more »»».

India-Japan global partnership to give new direction to way world looks today: Upadhyay

TOKYO – The upcoming India-Japan Global Partnership Summit 2011, which marks ten years of the announcement of the partnership, will initiate a new framework of working together between the two nations and give a new direction to the way the world looks like today.

The India-Japan Global Partnership Summit 2011 will be held in Tokyo [..] Read the original article: here.

US admits Davis case has made bilateral relationship with Pakistan “more difficult”

WASHINGTON – The United States has acknowledged that the ‘illegal’ detention issue of double murder-accused American official Raymond Davis has made its bilateral relationship with Pakistan “more difficult”.

“Has this case made that ongoing bilateral relationship more difficult? Probably yes. But we continue to work through this. And we continue to call on his immediate release …. Read the original article  : here.

Obama accepts Queen’s invitation to visit UK in May

LONDON – US President Barack Obama has reportedly accepted Queen Elizabeth’s invitation to visit Britain in May this year, ahead of his expected visit to the G8 summit in France.

Obama would reportedly be accompanied by his wife Michelle for the three-day trip, The Telegraph reports.

The announcement of the visit, from May 24 to … Read more »».

World’s hottest chilli grown in UK can leave one ’shaking uncontrollably’

LONDON – The record for the world’s hottest chilli has been broken by one grown in a greenhouse in UK, and it is so potent that it can reduce grown men to tears and leave one “shaking uncontrollably”.

The Infinity chilli, which has just been officially recognised as the hottest in the world by the Guinness …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : World’s hottest chilli grown in UK can leave one ’shaking uncontrollably’.

51pc of Brit women would sacrifice a year of sex if it meant they could be skinny

LONDON – In a new survey, over half of British women have admitted that they would sacrifice a year of making love if it meant they could be skinny.

51 per cent of women would choose the body of their dreams over a year of lovemaking, according to the survey.

The rest of the 2,400 U.S. women … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 51pc of Brit women would sacrifice a year of sex if it meant they could be skinny.

Charlie Chaplin ‘was born in a Gypsy Queen’s caravan’

LONDON – A set of letters discovered recently has suggested that Charlie Chaplin may have been born into a Gypsy community in the West Midlands.

A friendly note from an octogenarian called Jack Hill, who wrote to Chaplin from Tamworth in the 1970s informed him that he was not one of south London’s most celebrated … Read more >>>.

US disappointed over Pak Govt’s failure to certify Davis’ diplomatic immunity status

ISLAMABAD – The United States is disappointed that the Pakistan Government did not certify during the court hearing in Lahore that double murder-accused American official Raymond Davis possessed diplomatic immunity, US Ambassador to Islamabad Cameron Munter has said.

In his reaction to Thursday’s court hearings in Lahore, Munter added that the US “has made its position …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US disappointed over Pak Govt’s failure to certify Davis’ diplomatic immunity status.

French journalist found guilty of passing racial comments

PARIS – Eric Zemmour, a well-known commentator and coloumnist for Le Figaro, a French daily newspaper, has been found guilty of inciting racial hatred after passing comments that were hurtful for certain ethnic communities.

The French journalist appeared on a chat show last year and when the question of the French police’s excessive use of stop … Original source on Gaea Times at : French journalist found guilty of passing racial comments.

Hillary Clinton warns Taliban to cut ties with Al-Qaeda

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has warned the Taliban to cut ties with al-Qaeda or face increased military pressure from the United States and its allies.

In a speech given in New York, Clinton said, “They cannot defeat us. And they cannot escape this choice.”

Currently the US has 78,000 troops in Afghanistan … Read : Hillary Clinton warns Taliban to cut ties with Al-Qaeda.

6???8??? model Amazon Eve hopes to win Guinness world record

NEW YORK – Amazon Eve, named the world’s tallest model by the Federation of World Records, has now set her sights on winning the Guinness world record.

At 6 feet 8 inches, the model is set to take her career to new heights, reports the New York Daily News.

Next month, she’ll go before Guinness World Records … Original source on Gaea Times at : 6′8″ model Amazon Eve hopes to win Guinness world record.

BBC’s busty weather girl told to cover up?

LONDON – A busty BBC weather girl has sparked rumours that she was told to cover up, after she appeared for a later broadcast wearing a jacket.

Rachel Mackley had appeared on the BBC News channel’s early-morning bulletin in a skin-tight top with her assets clearly outlined, but when she appeared at 8am she was wearing … Read more : BBC’s busty weather girl told to cover up?.

Uproar over village pub sign showing Queen in muscle-vest, ‘Phil’ tattoo

LONDON – A sign on the door of Queen’s Arms Hotel in Acomb, Northumberland, which shows the Queen in a black muscle-vest with a tattoo bearing the name ‘Phil’ on her huge forearms, has caused outrage amongst villagers.

Some have branded it ‘distasteful’ and ’sad’, while others have said it amounts to treason.

“I have to say …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Uproar over village pub sign showing Queen in muscle-vest, ‘Phil’ tattoo.

Why you shouldn’t trust someone who scratches his or her nose!

LONDON – Body gestures say a lot about a person – whether they look up or scratch their nose, or even tilt their head.

Now, body language expert Peter Collett, author of the ‘Book Of Tells’ talks about the different gestures people make and what they mean.

SCRATCHING NOSE: When you’re not telling the truth, you instinctively …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Why you shouldn’t trust someone who scratches his or her nose!.

Ferguson eyeing Rooney ‘burst’ ahead of important Premier League games

LONDON – Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has urged striker Wayne Rooney to use his ’scissor-kick’ goal, an overhead kick he hit in the derby against Manchester City last week, as his Premier League season’s launchpad.

Rooney has been plagued by a bout of indifferent form this season, and has just six goals to his …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Each district to have a womens’ police station in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – Many aspects of normal civilian life are compromised in Kashmir, as in any area of conflict. But in Kashmir, there is an overlay of this reality with another one; of women being treated with insensitivity, and in extreme cases- violence.There is an inherited tapestry of Kashmir’s societal norms which are discriminatory, that …. Original source  : Each district to have a womens’ police station in Kashmir.

50-plus Brit women cry discrimination against potential employers

LONDON – A new study has revealed that 80 percent of 50-plus British women believe their age has prevented them finding work.

The study by isme.com has revealed that mature Brit women feel they had been overlooked in job interviews or felt they would be unlikely to win new positions.

The study found that women over 50 …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 50-plus Brit women cry discrimination against potential employers.

Distrust between Pakistan, Afghanistan “major cause of regional instability”: Clinton

WASHINGTON – The historic distrust between Pakistan and Afghanistan remains a ‘major cause of instability’ in the region, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has pointed out.

“As we have underscored from the beginning, Pakistan plays a pivotal role. It is a nuclear-armed nation of nearly 170 million people with deep ties and strong interests in …. Source article  : Distrust between Pakistan, Afghanistan “major cause of regional instability”: Clinton.

Americans rate Ronald Reagan as best-ever US President

WASHINGTON – A new poll has found that more Americans identify Ronald Reagan as the best-ever US President than Abraham Lincoln or Franklin Roosevelt.

According to a Gallup poll, when asked to name the president they regard as the greatest in history, Reagan finished first with 19 percent votes.

Reagan had served as the 40th US …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Americans rate Ronald Reagan as best-ever US President.

Sarah Palin’s breastfeeding joke backfires

WASHINGTON – Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin’s joke about breastfeeding seems to have backfired, especially since it is a universally agreed-upon problem.

Palin, 47, had while speaking at the Long Island Association, a business group in New York, weighed in on the debate over President Barack Obama’s citizenship, reportedly saying it is “distracting”.

“It gets annoying. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sarah Palin’s breastfeeding joke backfires.

US Navy’s new record setting laser can down cruise missiles in seconds

WASHINGTON – The US Navy has set a new world record, by coming up with a new type of laser that can shoot cruise missiles from the sky in seconds, with greater accuracy.

In co- ordination with the Office of Naval Research (ONR), the scientists injected a sustained 500 kilovolts (kV) of juice into a … Original article on : US Navy’s new record setting laser can down cruise missiles in seconds.

Two Maoists arrested by Police in West Midnapore

WEST MIDNAPORE – West Bengal Police has taken into its custody two Maoists and seized a huge cache of arms and ammunition.

After the arrest of the two Maoists on Friday, the police said most of the arms and ammunitions they seized were looted from camps of the joint forces.

“The operation was mainly conducted in and …. Source article  : Two Maoists arrested by Police in West Midnapore.

Man kills daughter’s lover for family honour in Bijnor

BIJNOR – In yet another case of honour killing, the family members of an upper-caste girl in Uttar Pradesh’s Bijnor District killed a boy of a Dalit family, with whom she was in a relationship.

The body of the boy named Atul Kumar was discovered in a field in Bijnor on Thursday.

Atul’s father Mahendra Singh alleged …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Man kills daughter’s lover for family honour in Bijnor.

Malkangiri Collector kidnapping: Maoists extend deadline

BHUBANESWAR – Maoists have extended the two-day deadline indefinitely for the Orissa Government to meet their demands in return for the release of Malkangiri District Collector R V Krishna and junior engineer Pabitra Majhi.

The ultras extended the deadline on Friday night following an appeal from the state government even as they exploded a landmine on …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

‘Hard working’ shot US Congresswoman Giffords tells husband her condition is “better”

WASHINGTON – Gabrielle Giffords, the US Democratic Representative who was shot while meeting with her constituents in Tucson, Arizona, is working hard to “speak more and improve,” with reports saying that she had even uttered the word “better” on being asked recently by her husband how she was doing.

“There’s lots of excitement as …. Source  : ‘Hard working’ shot US Congresswoman Giffords tells husband her condition is “better”.

Thousands flock to join Indian Army in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – More than 8,000 Kashmiri young men Saturday thronged a recruitment rally in Kashmir Valley’s Ganderbal district to join the Indian Army.

Braving rain and sleet, the youths reached the Manasbal Sainik School in north Kashmir early morning hoping to join the million-strong army.
The recruitment is being held to recruit soldiers from Srinagar … Read more : Thousands flock to join Indian Army in Kashmir.

Kerala’s Attukala Pongala festival sees 3.5 mn women

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Over 3.5 million women, dressed in brand new clothes and carrying cooking implements, Saturday assembled at this Kerala capital to prepare the offering as part of the famed Attukal Bhagavathi temple’s Pongala festival.

The event takes place on the penultimate day of the 10-day Attukal Pongala festival, which is often referred to as … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Kerala’s Attukala Pongala festival sees 3.5 mn women.

Ponting, Watson carry Aussie hopes of fourth consecutive World Cup win: Clark

SYDNEY – Former Australian fast bowler Stuart Clark reckons that the key to success in the World Cup will the ability of captain Ricky Ponting and all-rounder Shane Watson to stand up when the heat is on.Ponting is Australia’s most experienced player and the most adept at handling sub-continental conditions. Many wonder whether age is … Original article on : Ponting, Watson carry Aussie hopes of fourth consecutive World Cup win: Clark.

Michelle Obama, with daughters, skiing in Colorado

WASHINGTON – US First Lady Michelle Obama and her daughters, Malia and Sasha, are on a private family trip to Colorado.

They left the White House on Friday evening for the weekend ski trip to Vail, Colo.

According to White House aides, President Obama, who spent Thursday and Friday meeting with technology executives on the West Coast, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Military rulers demand apology from Suu Kyi’s party for supporting western sanctions

MYANMAR – Burma’s military rulers have demanded an apology from pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s party for backing western sanctions, which it said were restricting development in the country.

They said: “The National League for Democracy party (NLD) have to mend their ways, begging public pardon for the acts they have breached in their interests, … Read more »»».

Cathay Pacific accused of racism after refusing job to Muslim worker

LONDON – Algerian born Salim Zakhrouf (38), a Muslim airport worker, has accused Cathay Pacific airline of racism, after he was denied an interview, only to be offered one two days later when he applied again, using a fake British sounding name.

Zakhrouf had applied to Cathay Pacific for a job as a passenger services officer … Read more >>.

Islamic fundamentalists burn brothels in Tunisia

TUNIS – In an attempt to show force, Islamic fundamentalists burnt down a street of brothels in Tunis.

At least three people were injured, when security forces fired in the air on Friday, to disperse a huge crowd of Islamists protesting against a brothel in the capital.

A large number of Islamists had rallied outside the … Original article on : Islamic fundamentalists burn brothels in Tunisia.

Rapists, killers challenge UK govt. over right to benefits

LONDON – The detained rapists and killers in psychiatric hospitals are challenging the British Government in a test case at the European Court of Human Right, demanding for State benefits.

The case will intensify pressure on Prime Minister David Cameron, after he pledged to review Strasbourg’s influence on British law following the row over whether …. Original article  : Rapists, killers challenge UK govt. over right to benefits.

Chinese consumer products popular in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Political issues or the trade imbalance with China notwithstanding, there is a serious ‘Hindi-Chini bhai-bhai’ bonhomie happening in Jharkhand, a region which falls under the V Schedule of the Constitution as having a large tribal (ST) community.|

Politics makes strange bedfellows but trade and commercial interests also are great levelers of intellectual, ideological, …. Original article  : Chinese consumer products popular in Jharkhand.

Gordon Brown was billed for 200 breakfasts when he left No 10

LONDON – When the Browns were packing up to leave Downing Street, they were presented with a bill for 200 breakfasts.

In what became famous as the ‘Battle of the Breakfasts’ a refusal by Sarah Brown to bring her husband Gordon Brown morning snacks when he was in his Downing Street study left the couple with …. Original source  : Gordon Brown was billed for 200 breakfasts when he left No 10.

First ever Indian comic-book convention in Delhi

NEW DELHI – India’s first comic book convention has opened in New Delhi, with organisers expecting thousands of fans to prove that the art form is still thriving in the Internet age

The convention aims to bring new talents forward in the comic industry and hopes to attract producers for animation films and television serials based … Read this article on Gaea Times at : First ever Indian comic-book convention in Delhi.

Pakistani singer Rahat Ali Khan, manager fined Rs. 15 lakh

NEW DELHI – Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and his manager Maroof have been fine Rs. 15 lakh in connection with the recovery of undeclared foreign currency from them at the airport in Delhi on February 13.

Earlier, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence officials questioned the singer extensively to find out where the money came … Read more »»».

“CIA spy” Davis was giving nuclear bomb material to Al-Qaeda, says report

LONDON – Double murder-accused US official Raymond Davis has been found in possession of top-secret CIA documents, which point to him or the feared American Task Force 373 (TF373) operating in the region, providing Al-Qaeda terrorists with “nuclear fissile material” and “biological agents,” according to a report.

Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) is warning that the …. Source article  : “CIA spy” Davis was giving nuclear bomb material to Al-Qaeda, says report.

SA Prosecutor calls Brit-Indian honeymooner ‘guilty fugitive’ over wife’s murder

CAPE TOWN – A South African Director of public prosecutions has claimed that Shrien Dewani, the Brit-Indian millionaire accused of masterminding his wife’s murder during their honeymoon in Cape Town last year, is a “fugitive” and guilty of “committing a heinous crime”.’

The Independent quoted Menzi Simelane as saying that Dewani had “murdered his wife when …. Original article  : SA Prosecutor calls Brit-Indian honeymooner ‘guilty fugitive’ over wife’s murder.

Malaysian men getting hitched to foreign women for a price

KUALA LUMPUR – Some Malaysian men are being paid to marry women from China, Vietnam and other neighbouring countries so that these women can obtain visas to stay longer in the country.

The payment involving a larger sum is made in installments and the marriage contract usually lasts for two years, it has been found. Arrangements …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Malaysian men getting hitched to foreign women for a price.

US, Pak working on ‘out of the box’ solution to Davis detention standoff

ISLAMABAD – The United States has revived its high-level engagement with Pakistan after keeping it suspended for almost a fortnight over the diplomatic immunity issue of double murder-accused American official Raymond Davis.

Observers have interpreted the resumption of contacts as an attempt by the US to tone down the rhetoric, so that prospects for a settlement … Original article on : US, Pak working on ‘out of the box’ solution to Davis detention standoff.

Brit-Indian bride was ’sexually assaulted before being gunned down’ in Cape Town

CAPE TOWN – New evidences in the murder case of Anni Dewani, the Indian-origin bride who was killed during her honeymoon in Cape Town last year, has indicated that the victim was sexually assaulted before being gunned down by the abductors.

The Telegraph quoted a witness who had seen Dewani’s body lying on the back … Read more »».

UK to let in 20,000 skilled Indians yearly bypassing government’s new immigration caps

LONDON – Britain would reportedly allow thousands of Indians to enter the country every year under a European Union (EU) trade deal.

The multibillion-pound EU India Free Trade Agreement, which was initiated by former Trade Commissioner Lord Mandelson in 2007, and is expected to be signed by the end of June, will allow Indian workers, …. Original article  : UK to let in 20,000 skilled Indians yearly bypassing government’s new immigration caps.

Speaker to hold all party meet ahead of Budget session

NEW DELHI – Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar will hold an all-party meet today, a day before the commencement of the Budget session of Parliament.

According to reports, the leaders will discuss the constitution of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC).

The speaker will also hold a customary luncheon meeting here with the leaders of various … Read more »»».

ISI declares war on CIA following Davis double murder incident

LAHORE – Pakistan’s premier spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has hardened its stance against US’ Central Intelligence Agency following the Raymond Davis incident in Lahore on January 27.

While the US official confessed to shooting dead two men in Lahore, allegedly in self-defence, a third Pakistani was struck and killed by another vehicle that was reportedly … Read more »»».

No shifts in J.K chief ministerships: Farooq Abdullah

SRINAGAR – Union Cbinet Minister and National conference leader, Farooq Abdullah, has said that there will be no change of chief ministership in Jammu and Kashmir for next three years.

“There have been lots of vibrations that have been going on at various times that there is going to be a change in the governance of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : No shifts in J.K chief ministerships: Farooq Abdullah.

Wills-Kate invite 1,900 guests to their royal wedding

LONDON – Around 1,900 guests will witness Prince William and Kate Middleton exchange wedding vows on April 29.

More than half are family and friends of the royal couple, according to St James Palace.

Their names have not been released but the Westminster Abbey service is expected to feature leading UK politicians, foreign dignitaries, charity workers … Original article on : Wills-Kate invite 1,900 guests to their royal wedding.

Qureshi’s diatribe against US policy, Pak leadership following ouster as Foreign Minister

MULTAN – Having nothing to lose after having already been ousted as Pakistan’s former Foreign Minister, Shah Mehmood Qureshi has lambasted the United States over a number of matters, and also revealed that he was asked to keep silent on the Raymond Davis issue.

US national Davis was arrested last month for shooting two men on … Read : Qureshi’s diatribe against US policy, Pak leadership following ouster as Foreign Minister.

Former aide accuses Palin of breaching state election law in 2006 gubernatorial campaign

WASHINGTON – A leaked manuscript by one of Sarah Palin’s closest former aides has revealed that Palin had broken the state election law in her 2006 gubernatorial campaign, and added that the former Alaska Governor had sent him a message saying “I hate this damn job” before resigning.

Frank Bailey’s unpublished book titled “In … Read more >>>.

World’s 1st major exhibition on Hindu Lord Vishnu premiered at Nashville in USA

NEVADA – “Vishnu: Hinduism’s Blue-Skinned Savior”, said to be the first major museum exhibition to focus on the Hindu deity Vishnu, opened at Frist Center for the Visual Arts in Nashville (Tennessee, USA) today.

Hindus have applauded Frist Center for developing this Hinduism focused exhibition. Distinguished Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) …. Original article  : World’s 1st major exhibition on Hindu Lord Vishnu premiered at Nashville in USA.

Pak doctor claims Raymond Davis was chasing him in Lahore

LAHORE – A Pakistani doctor has alleged that the killing of two men by American citizen Raymond Davis in Lahore was staged to force him to withdraw a case he filed against the US government.

Dr. Adnan Bhutta said that Blackwater members had been keeping vigil on him, and the killing took place just …. Original article  : Pak doctor claims Raymond Davis was chasing him in Lahore.

Melbourne should axe Grand Prix, says lawmaker

MELBOURNE – A Labor lawmaker has told the Australian Parliament that most of the people in Melbourne are in favour of axing the Australian Grand Prix because it’s too expensive.

Labor Member of Parliament Michael Danby, whose Melbourne Ports electorate hosts the Grand Prix circuit, said he had polled 600 local residents about the Formula One …. Read the original article  : here.

India welcomes democracy in Egypt: President Patil

NEW DELHI – Welcoming the dawn of democracy elsewhere, President Pratibha Devisingh Patil on Monday said Egypt has recently seen momentous developments.

“Egypt has recently seen momentous developments. As a democracy ourselves, we welcome the dawn of democracy elsewhere,” President Patil said in her joint address to both houses of Parliament.
“We have an abiding interest in … Read more >>>.

India and Pakistan officials discuss bilateral water treaty

Niki Tawi (J-K) – India and Pakistan officials attended a high-level meeting of the Indus Water Treaty Commission in Jammu to discuss a proposal by India to erect a dam on the river Indus.

A three-member delegation from Pakistan led by Sheraj Jameel, Commissioner, Indus Water Treaty, visited the Nikki Tawi area to examine the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : India and Pakistan officials discuss bilateral water treaty.

Government seeks private funding for infrastructure development in 12th Plan

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Devisingh Patil on Monday said the private sector will have to join the government in the mammoth funding of US dollar one trillion (over Rs 40 lakh crore) for infrastructure development in the 12th Plan staring next fiscal.

” This huge quantum of investment cannot be funded by government alone. … Read more »».

Thousands celebrate traditional demon fair in Kullu

KULLU – Thousands attended the traditional eight-day-long Fagli Fair or demon fair on Sunday in Himachal Pradesh.

The fair started with the beginning of the Phagun month of the Hindu calendar and ended in Kullu with Kotlu, a ritual where local youth put on demon masks and perform traditional dances.

“This is a very old tradition and … Original source on Gaea Times at : Thousands celebrate traditional demon fair in Kullu.

I’m not in mood to quit now: Ancelotti

LONDON – Under increasing pressure after Chelsea’s miserable FA Cup exit against Everton, boss Carlo Ancelotti has said that he will not quit as doubts have been raised over his future.

The Champions League is now Ancelotti’s only hope of saving his job.

“I have never quit, resigned or walked out and I’m not in the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : I’m not in mood to quit now: Ancelotti.

Two Brit teachers suspended over alleged sex-romp film on school PC

LONDON – A married teacher and his classroom assistant in Britain have been suspended after a colleague discovered an alleged sex-romp film of theirs on a school computer.

The video featured a man sitting on a chair in what looks like an office, grinning and looking at the camera while a woman performs a sex act … Original article on : Two Brit teachers suspended over alleged sex-romp film on school PC.

Hezbollah might attack Israeli target to help Iran: Israel

JERUSALEM – The Northern Command of the Israel Defence Force (IDF) believes Iran may initiate an attack against Tel Aviv if it feels under pressure due to anti-government protests.

It said that Tehran could activate Hezbollah forces to attack Israel along the northern border in an effort to stave off domestic pressures within Iran.

According to …. Read the original article  : here.

President Patil says Govt. deeply concerned about inflation

NEW DELHI – President Pratibha Devisingh Patil on Monday said that the Government is deeply concerned over the adverse impact of inflation on the aam aadmi.

“My government is deeply concerned over the adverse impact of inflation on the aam aadmi and the threat it poses to the growth momentum. It has taken a number of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : President Patil says Govt. deeply concerned about inflation.

Sindh Home Minister warns PML-N against anti-PPP move

LAHORE – Sindh Home Minister Zulfiqar Mirza has warned the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) of “consequences” if the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) is expelled from the Punjab government.

Mirza also said that PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif should stop giving deadlines to the PPP.

“If any undemocratic mean was used against the PPP, not a single office of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sindh Home Minister warns PML-N against anti-PPP move.

Govt. committed to tackling menace of black money

NEW DELHI – Inaugurating the budget session of Parliament, President Pratibha Devisingh Patil on Monday, said that the Government of India committed to tackling the menace of black money.

“My government stands committed to tackling the menace frontally. It requires diligent, sustained effort by all law enforcement agencies, including those of state governments,” President Patil said …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Govt. committed to tackling menace of black money.

Maoists attack under construction Bridge, labourers in Jharkhand

BARWADIH – Maoists have targeted an under construction bridge and thrashed up the labourers near Barwadih in Latehar District of Jharkhand.

Ten rebels attacked Paira village and disrupted the construction of a small culvert.

According to locals, armed Maoists forced labourers to stop construction work and attacked. They injured a couple of them at the site.

Police officials …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Lucknow restaurateur promotes World Cup themed eatery

LUCKNOW – Sanjay Arora, Lucknow restaurant owner is promoting this Year’s World Cup with enthusiasm.

“We have converted this restaurant into a crickets stadium. We have introduced new international fare for our guests and special beverage combinations. This menu has been especially designed in cricket theme for World Cup,” said Arora.

“I think it is a good …. Read the original article  : Lucknow restaurateur promotes World Cup themed eatery.

Chinese telecom giant offers to install free mobile phone network on London Tube

LONDON – Chinese telecom firm Huawei has offered to install a mobile phone network worth 50 million pounds on the London Underground train system for free.

London Mayor Boris Johnson has backed the idea, but security chiefs fear that this could increase the risk of terrorism.

“In the event of a terrorist attack, putting a mobile network … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Chinese telecom giant offers to install free mobile phone network on London Tube.

91 year old beats all odds, rappels across 1200 feet deep valley

LONAVALA – Narayan Krishna Mahajan, a 91-year-old rappelled across a 1200 feet long deep valley in Maharashtra.

Mahajan climbed a mountain located 3,500 feet above sea level without any help or assistance. He used a walking stick as an occasional aid.

He tied himself with ropes to undertake the task of rappelling from the top of the …. Original article  : 91 year old beats all odds, rappels across 1200 feet deep valley.

Senior Chinese Official for better social management to ensure long-term peace

BEIJING – A Standing Committee member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) has called for improved and innovative social management to ensure long-term peace and stability in the country.

Zhou Yongkang’s call came after Chinese President Hu Jintao emphasized the need to maximize factors that are favorable for harmony and … Original source on Gaea Times at : Senior Chinese Official for better social management to ensure long-term peace.

Five militants killed in US drone attack in South Waziristan

PESHAWAR – At least five militants were killed in a suspected US drone strike in northwest Pakistan’s South Waziristan tribal district, officials have said.

According to reports, an unmanned US Predator drone fired three missiles at a house in Kaza Panga village, situated about 15 kilometres from Wana, the main town in South Waziristan.

“Five militants were …. Source article  : Five militants killed in US drone attack in South Waziristan.

Egypt allows Iranian warships through Suez Canal

CAIRO/JERUSALEM – Authorities in Egypt Tuesday allowed two Iranian warships to pass through the Suez Canal in the direction of the Mediterranean Sea, security sources in Cairo said.

The Iranian naval vessels, the first to enter the canal in some three decades, were reportedly bound for Syria.
Egypt granted permission days earlier for the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Malkangiri Collector abduction: Mediators hold talks with Maoist leader in jail

BHUBANESWAR – The Orissa government on Tuesday brought a top Maoist leader Ganti Prasadam to speed up the negotiation process for the safe release of a Malkangiri District Collector R. Vineel Krishna and junior engineer Pabitra Majhi.

Soon after Prasadam was brought here from Koraput jail, mediators Prof G Hargopal and Dandapani Mohanty met him at …. Original source  : Malkangiri Collector abduction: Mediators hold talks with Maoist leader in jail.

Bhopal will be renamed Bhojpal

BHOPAL – Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh may soon be renamed as ‘Bhojpal’.

The city is set to get a new name, after the famous Indian king Raja Bhoj known for his wisdom.

Local leaders told reporters that this proposal would be tabled before the State’s legislature for endorsement and enactment.

“We believe that if Bhopal is … Read more »»».

JuD comes out in open, pressurizing victims’ family in Raymond Davis case

LAHORE – The front organization of the hardcore banned terror group Laskhar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jamaat-ud-Daawa (JuD), is organizing countrywide strikes and pressurizing families of the two people allegedly murdered by American Raymond Davis not to strike any deals that would allow for Davis’ release.

Hundreds of people led by JuD leaders marched from Chauburji to the Qurtaba …. Original source  : JuD comes out in open, pressurizing victims’ family in Raymond Davis case.

Godhra verdict: 31 convicted, 63 acquitted

AHMEDABAD – A special court in Ahmedabad on Tuesday given verdict in the 2002 Godhra train burning case, convicting 31 under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code and acquitting 63 of those accused.

The quantum of judgment will be announced on February 25.

Special Public Prosecutor JM Panchal said that the court upheld the … Original article on : Godhra verdict: 31 convicted, 63 acquitted.

Aurangabad Medical College vandalized over poor facilities

AURANGBAD – Medical students in Aurangabad vandalized their college and hostel property while protesting against the lack of facilities in campus.he students of the government run institution complained that college provided no security to students and lacked basic facilities such as clean drinking water, sanitation, electricity and proper food.

“As you can see, this place is … Read more >>.

One migrant a minute landed in the UK under Labour regime

LONDON – Research has shown that when immigration was at its peak before 2009, one immigrant legally moved to the UK every minute.

According to the Daily Express, net migration quadrupled as a result and soared to 3.2 million foreigners under the previous Labour regime.

About 697,000 migrants came from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh over the last …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : One migrant a minute landed in the UK under Labour regime.

US woman, 95, sets new 60m-sprint record after training in her hallway

LONDON – A woman in the US has set a new 60m-sprint record at the age of 95.

Pensioner Ida Keeling, from New York, set a new world best for her age group with a time of 29.86 seconds on the track, and she did it while running alongside girls a quarter of her age.

“I feel …. Source  : US woman, 95, sets new 60m-sprint record after training in her hallway.

Muslim men slashed UK teacher’s face for ‘teaching other religions to our sisters’: Court hears

LONDON – Four Muslim men had brutally attacked a school teacher, slashing his face and leaving him with a fractured skull, in London for giving lessons to Muslim girls about other religions, a court here has heard.

Akmol Hussein, 26, Sheikh Rashid, 27, Azad Hussain, 25, and Simon Alam, 19, attacked Gary Smith with …. Read the original article  : here.

Pak, US differ on applicability of international laws in Davis case

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has made it clear that the case of Raymond Davis, an American national who murdered two Pakistani citizens in Lahore, will be decided by the judiciary and applicability of international and national laws will be taken into account.

Delivering a policy statement on the Davis’ issue in the National Assembly, Prime Minister …. Read the original article  : Pak, US differ on applicability of international laws in Davis case.

Guide on how to shoplift by Brit university newspaper angers retailers

LONDON – A guide on the “art of shoplifting” produced by a university newspaper in Britain has angered retailers who feel it could cost them financially.

The document encourages cash-strapped students to do away with moral concerns and use its step-by-step techniques for stealing.

The guide, which has been produced by student activists from Queen Mary College, …. Original source  : Guide on how to shoplift by Brit university newspaper angers retailers.

Proposed bill may allow students to carry guns in Texas universities

WASHINGTON – Texas lawmakers are considering passing a bill allowing students and academicians in the universities to carry guns on campus, in an attempt to ensure their safety following last month’s Arizona shootings.

If passed, the law would permit half a million students attending the city’s 38 public colleges to carry handguns, The Telegraph reports. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Proposed bill may allow students to carry guns in Texas universities.

MI5 missed opportunity to identify 7/7-terror ringleader over poorly edited picture

LONDON – British Intelligence outfit MI5 missed an opportunity to identify the ringleader of the July 7 bombers as terrorists because a surveilance photograph of him that could have been shown to an overseas al-Qaeda supergrass was poorly edited, the inquest into the 2005 attacks on London’s transport system has heard.

Mohamed Sidique Khan was secretly … Read : MI5 missed opportunity to identify 7/7-terror ringleader over poorly edited picture.

UK Commonwealth Director sacked over racist bullying allegations

LONDON – Mark Collins, the Director of the Commonwealth Foundation, has been sacked from his post over claims that he oversaw an environment of racist bullying at the organisation.

The decision was taken unanimously by the board of the 47-country group, the Daily Mail reports.

Two investigations are already being carried out against him after …. Original article  : UK Commonwealth Director sacked over racist bullying allegations.

Pakistan all set to overtake Britain as world’s fifth largest nuke power

LONDON – Pakistan is all set to overtake Britain as the world’s fifth largest nuclear power as it has increased its nuclear weapons stockpile by nearly 40 percent in last two years, having more than 100 deployed weapons.

American intelligence agencies believe that Pakistan now has more than 100 deployed nuclear weapons, an increase of nearly … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan all set to overtake Britain as world’s fifth largest nuke power.

US man reunited with lost wallet 40 yrs after thief hid it behind wall

LONDON – A US man, whose leather wallet was stolen at his office, has amazingly been reunited with it 40 years later.

Rudolph Resta, now 77, was working for the New York Times as an art director when his wallet disappeared after he left his jacket in an unguarded coat closet, reports the Daily Mail.

The thief …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Father of micro finance Mohommad Yunus asked to quit Grameen Bank

DHAKA – Nobel peace laureate and micro credit pioneer Muhammad Yunus is facing calls to quit as Grameen Bank Managing Director.

His supporters believe that the attempt to remove the 70-year old is politically motivated by the Bangladesh government as they want to bring Grameen under government control, reports The Guardian

Bangladesh Finance Minister Abul Maal Abdul [..] Read the original article: here.

Bangalore Christians staged rally against probe reports on church attacks

KARNATAKA – Hundreds of Christians in Bangalore gathered for a candle light vigil on Monday to protest against a probe report on church attacks.

The group criticized the findings of the Justice Somashekar Commission that gave a clean chit to the prime suspects.

The Archbishop of Bangalore, Rev. Bernard Moras said: Hindu groups such as the Bajrang … Original source on Gaea Times at : Bangalore Christians staged rally against probe reports on church attacks.

Bihar scripting growth story: Chetan Bhagat

PATNA – Best selling author Chetan Bhagat, who is on his maiden trip to Bihar, says he is impressed with the fact that the state is no more in the news for its negative stories and people are talking about its growth and changing face.

“I am impressed with stories of changing face of Bihar … Read more : Bihar scripting growth story: Chetan Bhagat.

Two Iranian warships cross Suez Canal

TEHRAN – Two Iranian battleships, headed towards Syria for a training mission, have crossed the Suez Canal – controlled by Egypt – for the first time since 1979, media reports said.

The ships are the Kharg, a 33,000-tonne refuelling and support vessel, and the Alvand, a 1,500-tonne light patrol frigate, Mehr news quoted … Read : Two Iranian warships cross Suez Canal.

Even in a crowd, you remain unique

WASHINGTON – It may be the height of paradox, but being part of a crowd is what gives you individuality, according to life scientists.

Biologists Kimberly Pollard and Daniel Blumstein from the University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA), examined the evolution of individuality by recording alarm-call vocalizations in eight species of rodents in social groups of …. Source article  : Even in a crowd, you remain unique.

Jobless spouse can affect partner’s performance

WASHINGTON – Stresses of an unemployed spouse can hurt the job performance of the partner but ignoring the stresses of a spouse’s job search does not bode well for the employed counterpart’s job productivity or home life, a new research says.

The research examined daily stresses felt by married couples in which one of them …. Original article  : Jobless spouse can affect partner’s performance.

Maoists likely to release abducted Malkangiri collector, engineer in next 48 hours

BHUBANESHWAR – Malkangiri District Collector R Vineel Krishna and junior engineer Pabitra Mohan Majhi are likely to be released by Maoists in the next 48 hours, after Orissa Government conceded to the 14 demands put forward by the rebels.

The Maoists had kidnapped the two government officials on February 16 near Jantapi village in Malkangiri, … Read more : Maoists likely to release abducted Malkangiri collector, engineer in next 48 hours.

Non-violence, proper Internet use key to Kashmir peace: Experts

NEW DELHI – A senior journalist from Kashmir has said that the power of non- violence and modern technologies such as the Internet can be used efficiently to change systems.

Ifthikhar Gilani said that the correct use of these powers (non- violence and Internet) was most visible during the period 2008 to 2010, when unrest in … Original article on : Non-violence, proper Internet use key to Kashmir peace: Experts.

Maruti Suzuki launches diesel version sedan SX4

NEW DELHI – Automobile major Maruti Suzuki, launched the much awaited diesel model of its mid-sized sedan SX4 in New Delhi on Tuesday .

With an average of 21.5 kilometers per litre, the car costs Rupees 7.74 lakh.

Mayank Prateek, Executive Director of Maruti Suzuki India Limited highlighted various plus points of the car and termed … Read more »».

Chinese man dies after three days of continuous Internet gaming

BEIJING – A Chinese man, in his thirties, has died after a three-day online gaming session in which he did not sleep and barely ate.

He slipped into coma and was rushed to a nearby clinic, but he was pronounced dead.

The man had spent more than 1500 US dollars on Internet gaming over the past … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chinese man dies after three days of continuous Internet gaming.

Shutdown disrupts normal life in Telangana

HYDERABAD – Normal life remained disrupted in the Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh on the second day of a 48-hour shutdown called by Telangana groups to demand the introduction of a bill in Parliament for the creation of a separate state.

Schools, colleges, shops and commercial establishments remained closed and public transport largely remained off the [..] Read the original article: here.

MI5 dismissed 7/7 ringleader as Jihadi ‘tourist’, inquest hears

WASHINGTON – British Intelligence outfit MI5 had dismissed the July 7 ringleader as a Jihadi ‘tourist’ when he had travelled to Pakistan in 2003 to attend a terrorist training camp, the inquest into the 2005 attacks on London’s transport system has heard.

Mohammed Sidique Khan was a part of a ’social’ breakfast gathering at Islamabad Airport, …. Source  : MI5 dismissed 7/7 ringleader as Jihadi ‘tourist’, inquest hears.

Enid Blyton’s unseen novel ‘Mr Tumpy’s Caravan’ discovered

LONDON – A previously unseen novel by Enid Blyton has been discovered in a children’s book centre.

‘Mr Tumpy’s Caravan’, an 180-page fantasy story about a caravan with a mind of its own, was located among a collection of manuscripts auctioned by the Blyton family in September last year, reports the Telegraph.

The collection was bought by …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Enid Blyton’s unseen novel ‘Mr Tumpy’s Caravan’ discovered.

Never retired, never stopped dancing, says Birju Maharaj at 74 (Interview)

NEW DELHI – Legendary kathak dancer Birju Maharaj, who is also a musician, choreographer and lyricist, says kathak as a genre is finally receiving the encouragement it should from the government. He also says he never retired and is dancing away even at 74.

“It is slow, but support is finally coming. Young dancers are …. Original article  : Never retired, never stopped dancing, says Birju Maharaj at 74 (Interview).

Pandiani suggests ‘cocky’ Ronaldo ‘would need a dentist’ in Uruguay

LONDON – Veteran Osasuna striker Walter Pandiani has suggested Cristiano Ronaldo would have to see a dentist if the Real Madrid star visited Uruguay.

Pandiani and Ronaldo were involved in a highly publicized altercation earlier this month when the Portugal international allegedly mocked Pandiani’s salary in comparison with his own.

In an interview with a Spanish radio …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Minority status to Jamia Millia

NEW DELHI – The National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions (NCMEI) has granted minority institution status to Jamia Millia Islamia University.

This will allow Jamia Millia to reserve up to 50 per cent seats for Muslims. It will also be exempted from the quotas for aspirants from the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and the Other … Read more >>>.

Palin gets no vote in recent GOP straw poll

WASHINGTON – Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin has not received a single vote in a recent Republican presidential straw poll conducted in Minnesota’s Beltrami County.

Her performance was said to be weaker than American real estate mogul Donald Trump, who got two votes from the 46 delegates voting in the poll, Politico reports.

Two former governors Mike …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Palin gets no vote in recent GOP straw poll.

Rahm Emanuel wins Chicago Mayor bid with over 50 percent votes

WASHINGTON – Rahm Emanuel, the former White House chief of staff, has been elected as the Mayor of Chicago, winning over 50 percent of votes.

With 87 percent of the vote in the Chicago Mayor’s race counted on Tuesday, 51-year-old Emanuel had won 54 percent of votes, avoiding a runoff in April, ABC News reports. …. Read the original article  : Rahm Emanuel wins Chicago Mayor bid with over 50 percent votes.

‘Brit-Indian honeymooner too fragile to stand trial in SA after failed suicide bid’

LONDON – The Brit-Indian millionaire charged with masterminding his wife’s murder during their honeymoon in Cape Town last year has reportedly become too “fragile” to stand trial in South Africa after a failed suicide attempt in London.

Thirty-one-year-old Dewani was released from hospital yesterday after a failed suicide bid from a pills overdose, The Sun [..] Read the original article: here.

US fears for double murder-accused Raymond Davis’ life in Pak prison

LAHORE – U.S. officials believe that Raymond Davis, an American national who murdered two Pakistani citizens in Lahore, is in serious danger – even from the guards at the prison where he now awaits his next court date on February 25.

Davis has confessed to shooting dead Mohammed Fahim and Faizan Haider on January 25, allegedly …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US fears for double murder-accused Raymond Davis’ life in Pak prison.

Raymond Davis on hunger strike over ’substandard food’ in Pak prison

ISLAMABAD – Raymond Davis, who is facing double murder charges in Pakistan, has gone on a hunger strike in a Lahore prison to protest against “substandard food” being given to him and to press for removing security cameras.

An official said that Davis refused to eat in Lahore’s Kot Lakhpat jail when food was given … Read more »».

Pak Taliban leader Baitullah Mehsud’s aide arrested in Karachi

KARACHI – Pakistani police have reportedly arrested five militants, including a close aide of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) leader Baitullah Mehsud and a Lashkar-e-Jhangvi member, in Karachi.

According to the Daily Times, an Anti Extremists Cell (AEC) of the Crime Investigation Department (CID) arrested the alleged TTP member and recovered a TT pistol from his possession.

Sindh Police …. Source article  : Pak Taliban leader Baitullah Mehsud’s aide arrested in Karachi.

How becoming the President of America is the gateway to a fortune

LONDON – A survey by Wall Street has revealed that becoming the American President means joining an exclusive club – of the rich.

Of the 43 holders of the office, 34 have been millionaires or better, and while some made their fortunes after leaving political office, but others were born into vast wealth.

The analysis also revealed …. Read the original article  : How becoming the President of America is the gateway to a fortune.

From plains to Patalkot, census reaches out to interiors

CHHINDWARA – Ranjana Soni, a teacher and a resident of Tamia, knows that census is about collecting information and data which will help in making development programmes for people.

She knows her enumerator and says “Sahu sahib aaye te and forms mein janakari le kar gaye teh.” (”Mr. Sahu had come and collected the information … Read more : From plains to Patalkot, census reaches out to interiors.

Chinese tourists emerge as top tax-free shoppers in Europe

NEW DELHI – A new study has found that Chinese tourists have outspend the Russians to become the top tax-free shoppers in Europe.

Statistics from Global Blue, a Switzerland-based tax-refund and shopping services provider, also showed that the average spending of Chinese for each transaction doubled that of the Russians.

“On average, Chinese tourists spent 107 percent …. Original source  : Chinese tourists emerge as top tax-free shoppers in Europe.

Zardari’s quiet UAE visit to find solution to Pak’s economic woes

ISLAMABAD – As Pakistan was busy watching the Raymond Davis saga unfold, President Asif Ali Zardari quietly took an unannounced trip to Dubai to explore options to solve the country’s economic crunch.

A few days ago, Zardari visited the Gulf state for a couple of hours to seek the intervention of the UAE leadership for getting …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Zardari’s quiet UAE visit to find solution to Pak’s economic woes.

Israel bombs Gaza targets, after missile hits Israeli city

GAZA CITY/TEL AVIV – Israeli jets bombed targets across the Gaza Strip overnight, after a missile struck the southern Israeli city of Beersheba for the first time in two years.

A military spokeswoman in Tel Aviv did not specify the number of sorties that began around midnight and ended at 5 a.m. (0300 GMT) Thursday.
… Read : Israel bombs Gaza targets, after missile hits Israeli city.

238 missing and 78 dead in New Zealand earthquake

WELLINGTON – Nearly 238 people are reported missing and 78 are dead in Christchurch earthquake.

The 6.3 magnitude quake hit New Zealand’s second largest city on Tuesday and the death toll is likely to rise in the region.

According to police nearly 22 bodies are inside the Christchurch’s Cathedral Square, the stuff.co.nz website reports.

The death toll can … Read more : 238 missing and 78 dead in New Zealand earthquake.

Romanian women endured 22 million abortions after ex-dictator’s ban on contraception

LONDON – Romanian women went through over 22 million abortions as a result of policies introduced by former communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu, health statistics have revealed.

According to the Daily Mail, official government records show that between 1958 and 2008 state clinics carried out 22.1 million terminations in a country with a population of just 21.5 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Romanian women endured 22 million abortions after ex-dictator’s ban on contraception.

Wild bisons injure six villagers in West Bengal district

COOCH BEHAR – Two wild bisons strayed into three villages in West Bengal’s Cooch Behar district and injured around half a dozen inhabitants.

The bisons attacked the villagers in Marichbari, Amtuli Hat Gopalpara and Kankanpuri.

The villagers informed the Range Forest Officer, who immediately deputed a veterinarian to tranquillise the bisons.

Veterinarian, Dr. Manas Kundu said : … Original source on Gaea Times at : Wild bisons injure six villagers in West Bengal district.

Booze puts Brits in the mood for sex: Study

LONDON – The more alcohol Brits drink, the more turned on they become.

That’s the conclusion of a new study, which also found that the sexy side-effect can wear off if fellas drink too much.

Researchers asked men and women to watch a mix of erotic and “neutral” films while necking booze.

Genital responses were measured to find …. Read the original article  : Booze puts Brits in the mood for sex: Study.

Wife of ‘German Fritzl’ refuses to give evidence at his trial

LONDON – The wife of a man, who fathered eight kids with his stepdaughter, has refused to testify at his trial.

Detlef S, dubbed the German Josef Fritzl, allegedly abused his stepdaughter, his natural daughter and his stepson for over 20 years, reports Sky News.

The 48-year-old is also accused of selling the two girls to friends …. Read the original article  : here.

Assange’s ‘final’ extradition fate could take a year to be decided

LONDON – Julian Assange, founder of whistle-blowing website Wikileaks, is expected to lose his battle against extradition to Sweden today.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the Magistrates Court will grant the European arrest warrant forcing Assange to face accusations of sex crimes in Stockholm.

However, it could take nine months to a year before a final …. Read the original article  : Assange’s ‘final’ extradition fate could take a year to be decided.

Iran bolstering its position as political balance shifts and shakes in Arab world

MANAMA – The balance of power appears to be shifting towards Iran as the Arab World continues to remain politically unstable and shaken.

Regional experts say this week Iran sent two warships through the Suez Canal for the first time since its revolution in 1979, and Egypt’s new military leaders allowed them to pass.

Saudi Arabia, an … Read more : Iran bolstering its position as political balance shifts and shakes in Arab world.

Russia set to classify beer as alcoholic drink for first time

LONDON – Russia is for the first time set to legally classify beer as an alcoholic drink, and the move comes as the Kremlin carries out its toughest anti-alcohol campaign.

Beer had technically been classified as a foodstuff, and the category it was put in allowed producers to avoid a sweeping new crackdown on alcohol advertising … Read more »».

Amended Chinese law says organ traffickers will get death penalty

BEIJING – Criminals convicted for organ trafficking will be given the death penalty, says an amendment submitted to the National People’s Congress (NCP) Standing Committee of China.

The amendment was submitted on Wednesday to the Committee for a third reading. It specifies that criminals convicted of “forced organ removal, forced organ donation or organ removal from …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hallmark Channel’s TV film about Wills-Kate romance set for August

NEW YORK – After Lifetime, the Hallmark Channel is planning to make a TV film about Prince William and Kate Middleton’s romance.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the Hallmark Channel is fast-tracking production on its own royal-romance biopic in order to premiere the TV movie on Aug. 13.

Barbara Fisher, Hallmark’s senior vice president of original programming, …. Source article  : Hallmark Channel’s TV film about Wills-Kate romance set for August.

Internet words ‘bloggable’ and ’scareware’ enter Oxford Dictionary

LONDON – A slew of new words, including ‘bloggable’ and ’scareware’, have been added to the Oxford Dictionaries for the first time, thanks to the Internet.

Experts from Oxford Dictionaries Online said the web’s influence on the English language was increasing.

New entries include the words “scareware”, which means malicious computer programmes, “trackpad” (touchpad) and “buttload” (a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Internet words ‘bloggable’ and ’scareware’ enter Oxford Dictionary.

Punjab child actor fakes kidnapping, writes apology

MOHALI – Having learnt a few drama tricks by acting in a Bollywood flick did not come in handy for a 10-year-old boy as his dramatic kidnapping turned out to be fake. He has written an apology to police and his parents.

Sahibjit Singh, a resident of Phase VI of this Punjab town, sent a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Punjab child actor fakes kidnapping, writes apology.

Diplomats attack Sarkozy for pursuing ‘amateurish’ French foreign policy

PARIS – An anonymous group of French diplomats known only by the name “Marly” has hit out at President Nicolas Sarkozy for pursuing a foreign policy that is impulsive, amateurish and preoccupied with the nation’s image in the media.

The group, named after the Paris caf??? where the diplomats first met, published the broadside in yesterday’s …. Read the original article  : Diplomats attack Sarkozy for pursuing ‘amateurish’ French foreign policy.

Murder attempt on Shumaila’s uncle for refusing to patch-up with Davis

FAISALABAD – A relative of Shumaila Kanwal, who had committed suicide after the murder of her husband Fahim by US official Raymond Davis, is battling for his life after three armed men forcibly fed him poisonous pills.

The three men gave poison to Shumaila’s uncle Muhammad Sarwar on Wednesday night after barging into his house in …. Original source  : Murder attempt on Shumaila’s uncle for refusing to patch-up with Davis.

Is Chelsea Clinton’s husband on the verge of a breakdown?

LONDON – Chelsea Clinton’s husband Marc Mezvinsky is on the verge of a breakdown, according to friends.

Since rumours of a split rocked their marriage earlier this month, the couple has made a huge show of togetherness.

But it seems their efforts have been in vain, as friends claim the former investment banker needs …. Original source  : Is Chelsea Clinton’s husband on the verge of a breakdown?.

Son says Gaddafi wants to remain Libya’s ‘Big Father’

LONDON – One of the seven sons of Colonel Muammar Gaddafi has revealed that the tyrant wants to stay on as the “Big Father” of Libya in spite of the unrest that is spreading across the country.

According to Sky News, Saadi Gaddafi has told the Financial Times that his father expects to be the “big …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US, India to convene Joint Task Force on reducing climate damaging HFCs

WASHINGTON – The United States and India have agreed to convene a Joint Task Force (JTF) that will examine effective approaches to reduce the use of climate-damaging hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs).

The task force is being established in recognition of the challenges faced by the current phaseout of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Brit engineer returns ???2m paid by mistake to him by employer

LONDON – A turbine blade engineer in Britain has been lauded for his honesty after he repaid 2 million pounds that had been given to him by mistake by his employer.

The engineer, who earns 2,000 pounds making turbine blades at Alcoa Howmet in Exeter, was stunned when the massive amount appeared in his monthly … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Brit engineer returns ???2m paid by mistake to him by employer.

Pak artistes will need Culture Ministry’s NOC for foreign shows following Rahat fiasco

ISLAMABAD – In the backdrop of Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s detention in New Delhi for violating India’s customs laws, Pakistan’s Interior Ministry has announced that the country’s artistes will need to take permission from the Culture Ministry before visiting any other country.

Responding a point of order in the National Assembly, Interior Minister Rehman … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pak artistes will need Culture Ministry’s NOC for foreign shows following Rahat fiasco.

India’s cumulative export growth in April- Dec stands at 29.5 per cent

NEW DELHI – : Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Friday tabled Economic survey 2010-11 in Lok Sabha, and said India’s cumulative export growth in April- Dec 2010 stands at 29.5 per cent with exports reaching US $ 164.7 billion during the period.

He said the exports have continued to rise with exports rising at the rate … Read more : India’s cumulative export growth in April- Dec stands at 29.5 per cent.

US clothing firm courts controversy with ad of model baring breasts

NEW YORK – A clothing firm in the US has courted controversy after it released an ad for its latest swimwear collection with a model exposing her breasts.

American Apparel, based in Los Angeles, has made headlines for questionable behaviour in the past, and its latest controversial ad is for a nylon-tricot suspender one-piece for 36 …. Read the original article  : here.

Indian citizens will not have to pay for evacuation from Libya

New Delhi (ANI) :The Ministry of External Affairs stated here today that ‘no payment will be levied by the government for the evacuation of Indian nationals from Libya”

The statement said the Ministry has noticed that some unscrupulous elements are asking for payments or fee for arranging evacuation through the Indian Embassy in Libya.

“These activities are …. Read the original article  : Indian citizens will not have to pay for evacuation from Libya.

Railways planning to invest Rs 57630 crore in 2011-12

NEW DELHI – Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee, while presenting the Rail Budget 2011-12 in the Parliament, on Friday said the railways is planning to invest Rs 57630 crore in the 2011-12 fiscal.

Regretting over the two incidents of sabotage that led to a large number of deaths last year, Banerjee said: “Anti-collision devices will be commissioned …. Source  : Railways planning to invest Rs 57630 crore in 2011-12.

Women over 58 yrs now eligible for railway concession

NEW DELHI – Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday announced that the railways will give concession to women over 58 years.

Presenting the Rail Budget 2011-12 in the Parliament, Banerjee said: “Railways will give relief for senior citizens: to decrease the age for senior citizen (Women) to 58 years from 60 years and concession on rail … Read more >>>.

Industrial output grows by 8.6 percent

NEW DELHI – The Economic Survey 2010-11, presented by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee in the Parliament today, states that the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) based cumulative industrial output growth during April-December 2010 was 8.6 per cent being at a par with the growth rate of the corresponding months of the previous year.

According to …. Source  : Industrial output grows by 8.6 percent.

Grave of LTTE chief’s mother ‘desecrated’ by leaving dead dogs at site

COLOMBO – The cremation ground of late Tamil Tiger chief Vellupillai Prabhakaran’s mother has been desecrated by the leaving of the dead bodies of three shot dogs at the site, relatives have claimed.

The bodies were left at the site on Tuesday night, in a major insult to the deceased woman, after 81-year-old Parvati Pillai …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

UK’s exams watchdog calls for end of pen, paper usage in written exams

LONDON – The head of Britain’s exams watchdog has called for usage of pen and paper in written exams to be brought to an end.

Isabel Nisbet, chief executive of Ofqual, said that if school exams did not go online soon, exam preparation “will become a separate thing to learning” for candidates brought up …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : UK’s exams watchdog calls for end of pen, paper usage in written exams.

Roses and more at Chandigarh festival

CHANDIGARH – If you want to be a ‘rose prince’ or a ‘rose princess’, come to the Rose Festival in Chandigarh that began Friday and which boasts of not only flowers but also music, dance and a host of competitions.

In the backdrop of drum beats and music, Chandigarh administrator and Punjab Governor Shivraj … Read more »».

Fringe sex groups more likely to be victimised: Study

WASHINGTON – Fringe sexual groups like gays, lesbians and bisexuals are more likely to be victimised, a new study says.

The correlation is prevalent among gays, lesbians and bisexuals, more so than in heterosexuals, says Tonda Hughes, professor of health systems science at the University of Illinois College of Nursing in Chicago, who led … Read more >>>.

Libyan revolutionaries used dating website to organize anti-Gaddafi protests

TRIPOLI – Libya’s revolutionaries used a dating website to organize their revolt against dictator Muammar al-Gaddafi, and to avoid detection by the country’s secret police, former opposition leader Omar Shibliy Mahmoudi has revealed.

Mahmoudi said that he used dating site ‘Mawada’ to rally people together while staying out of the gaze of the Libyan secret … Read : Libyan revolutionaries used dating website to organize anti-Gaddafi protests.

China to fulfill duty as rotating Security Council president in fair way: Envoy

UNITED NATIONS – To effectively maintain international peace and security, China will perform its duty as the rotating president of the UN Security Council in March in a fair, neutral way.

Li Baodong, the Chinese permanent representative to the United Nations, made the statement in an interview with the UN-based Chinese media after he exchanged views …. Original article  : China to fulfill duty as rotating Security Council president in fair way: Envoy.

70 percent city governments in China fail administrative transparency evaluation

NEW DELHI – Seventy percent of 43 selected city governments of China failed to pass an administrative transparency evaluation, according to a blue book report.

Fifty-one out of 59 government administrations under the State Council also failed the transparency evaluation on Thursday.

The blue book, an annual report on China’s rule of law that was released …. Original article  : 70 percent city governments in China fail administrative transparency evaluation.

Highlights of Railway budget 2011-12 (Part-II)

NEW DELHI – Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee on Friday presented the railway budget in the Parliament.

The highlights of the Railway budget 2011-12 are as follows:

Restructuring of all the railway cadres to ensure promotion of employees

Larger scheme for railway employees introduced, Scholarship schemes for children of railway employees raised to Rs 1200

Charges for ticket … Read more : Highlights of Railway budget 2011-12 (Part-II).

Need for better implementation of unemployment, poverty schemes to ensure benefits: FM

NEW DELHI – The Economic Survey tabled by the Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee in the Lok Sabha today states that there is a need for better convergence of schemes related to unemployment and poverty alleviation, to avoid duplication and leakages and to ensure that the fruits of the schemes reach the targeted beneficiaries. …. Read the original article  : here.

Sharp rise in food prices cause of concern: Mukherjee

NEW DELHI – Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee today said that a sharp price in food price inflation has been a major cause of concern of economy during 2010-11

Presenting the economic survey in Lok Sabha, Mukherjee said: “A sharp price in food price inflation has been a major cause of concern of our economy during …. Original article  : Sharp rise in food prices cause of concern: Mukherjee.

Mukherjee underlines need to monitor emerging trends in inflation

NEW DELHI – Recognizing the fact that inflation continues to be high even though it has come down markedly from where it was at the start of the fiscal year, Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee today underlined the need to monitor emerging trends in inflation on a sequential monthly basis.

Presenting the economic survey in …. Read the original article  : Mukherjee underlines need to monitor emerging trends in inflation.

Sobha Singh’s painting goes for auction at Sotheby’s

SHIMLA – A portrait of Sikh ruler Maharaja Ranjit Singh made by celebrated artist Sobha Singh will go under hammer in the US in March, an official of Singh’s art gallery said Friday.

The painting has been listed for auction at the renowned New York-based auction house Sotheby’s March 24.
“We received a communication from … Read more »»».

Yasin Malik begins fast against detention of youths

SRINAGAR – Yasin Malik, who heads the pro-independence Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), began a day-long fast in Srinagar Saturday morning to protest the arrest of youths by police. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, however, has denied that minors were being detained.

As Malik began his fast in the uptown Maisuma locality of the …. Original source  : Yasin Malik begins fast against detention of youths.

Jaipur’s mother of 66 fashioning new lives

JAIPUR – She has not given birth to them, but she proudly calls herself the mother of 66 children. Manan Chaturvedi, 35, would probably have become a top fashion designer earning fabulously and living in style. But she chose not to and dumped midway her promising career in fashion designing.

Chaturvedi, who has three children …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

ISI angered by “desire of Obama administration to go through civilian govt” for visas

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s premier spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence is enraged by the inclination of the Obama administration to go through Pakistan’s civilian government for getting visas issued.

The Central Intelligence Agency ’s relations with the ISI had come under strain before the arrest of double murder-accused …. Source  : ISI angered by “desire of Obama administration to go through civilian govt” for visas.

Nurse ‘lover’ sticks by Gaddafi through thick and thin

LONDON – Libyan dictator Colonel Muammar al-Gaddafi’s ‘voluptuous blonde’ personal nurse is on his side even when power is slipping through his fingers, it has emerged.

Galyna Kolotnytska is said to be at his side despite his vow to ‘martyr’ himself in a bloody final stand, reports the Sun.

Gaddafi … Read : Nurse ‘lover’ sticks by Gaddafi through thick and thin.

57-yr-old becomes UK’s oldest surrogate mum by giving birth to own
Grandson

LONDON – A 57-year-old woman has given birth to her own grandson to become the oldest surrogate mother in Britain.

Pamela Butler carried her daughter Nichola’s baby in her womb because the latter was not medically fit.

Butler gave birth to healthy 5lb 12oz Josef by Caesarean section in August, at … Read : 57-yr-old becomes UK’s oldest surrogate mum by giving birth to own
Grandson.

Adolescent Indian girls most vulnerable: UNICEF report

NEW DELHI – With the highest adolescent population in India, the real challenge for the nation is to provide nutrition, health and education in this segment, especially for girls, according to a UNICEF report.

The report titled ‘Adolescence: Age of …. Original source  : Adolescent Indian girls most vulnerable: UNICEF report.

New Zealand may face further quake aftershocks; Oz seismologist

WELLINGTON – An Australian seismologist has warned that Christchurch could face earthquake aftershocks for a year and added that Wellington is at risk of experiencing bigger earthquake.

“I think there will be lots of aftershocks around Christchurch for about a year, [..] Read the original article: here.

Osama Bin Laden still alive, in touch with al-Qaeda, claims al- Zawahiri

BAGHDAD – One of Osama Bin Laden’s close associates has revealed that the 9/11 terror leader is still alive and in touch with his organisation.

Ayman al-Zawahiri has claimed in an online video that Osama had ordered his al-Qaeda network to avoid “indiscriminate” attacks on Muslim civilians, The Sun reports. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Osama Bin Laden still alive, in touch with al-Qaeda, claims al- Zawahiri.

Assange attacks British judge’s extradition order

LONDON – The Australian founder of the whistleblowing web site, WikiLeaks, Julian Assange, has attacked a British judge’s attempts to extradite him to Sweden, terming it a “rubber-stamping process”.

The judge ruled that Assange should be extradited to Sweden to answer allegations of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Assange attacks British judge’s extradition order.

Matt Damon says on-screen kiss with Emily Blunt was ‘very awkward’

LONDON – Matt Damon has revealed that his seven-second on- screen kiss with Emily Blunt was “very, very, very, very uncomfortable”.

The pair star alongside each other in the upcoming action thriller, The Adjustment Bureau, and were promoting the film on a …. Read the original article  : Matt Damon says on-screen kiss with Emily Blunt was ‘very awkward’.

Rudd says Libya in grip of civil war, urges Aussies to leave

DUBAI – Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd has urged Australians residing in Libya to get out of the country as soon as possible, as it effectively is in a state of civil war.

Speaking from Dubai en route to meetings with the new Egyptian government, Rudd … Read more >>.

Iran informs IAEA inspectors of Bushehr nuke plant setback

WASHINGTON/TEHRAN – Iran has reportedly told atomic inspectors this week that it had run into a serious problem at a newly completed nuclear reactor in Bushehr.

The plant was supposed to start feeding electricity into the national grid this month, the New York Times reports.

According to the paper, the … Read more »».

Bush cancels scheduled speech in Denver to avoid being seen together with Assange

WASHINGTON – Former US President George W. Bush had cancelled his scheduled speech on Friday after he came to know that the group that invited him, the Young Presidents Organization, had also asked the controversial Wikileaks founder Julian Assange … Read more : Bush cancels scheduled speech in Denver to avoid being seen together with Assange.

Raymond Davis’ family reaches Pakistan

LAHORE – The family of US official Raymond Davis, who shot dead two men in Lahore, has arrived in Pakistan, a media report said Saturday.

Davis’ family reached the country Thursday morning, the daily Dawn reported.
The family comprises a woman, two men and three children. There was tight security when they arrived and [..] Read the original article: here.

Davis case fallout: ISI asks CIA to unmask its contractors operating in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s premier spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence has demanded an accounting by the US’ Central Intelligence Agency of all its contractors working in the country as a fallout from the arrest of alleged CIA agent Raymond Davis, a senior Pakistani intelligence official has claimed.

Davis, who …. Read the original article  : here.

Anyone advising to have wars like Iraq, Afghanistan should have head examined: Gates

WEST POINT – United States Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates has bluntly told West Point cadets that any senior official advising the president to deploy huge land armies in conflict zones like Iraq and Afghanistan in the future, should have his or her head examined.

“In my opinion, any future defense secretary who advises the …. Read the original article  : Anyone advising to have wars like Iraq, Afghanistan should have head examined: Gates.

Landslides disrupting vehicular movement in Himachal Pradesh

KULLU – Landslides caused by snowfall and persistent rains have made road transportation difficult and dangerous in the Kullu- Manali region.

Landslides at Raison, Dobhi, Alu Ground, Rangri and Manali have disrupted vehicular traffic movement.

Sher Singh Bobh, a teacher, who had a narrow escape on Friday when a rock almost hit his car near Manali said: … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Landslides disrupting vehicular movement in Himachal Pradesh.

UK asks Gaddafi loyalists to withdraw support of face war crimes trial

LONDON – Britain has warned senior Libyan regime officials to stop supporting Colonel Gaddafi or face trial along with the autocratic ruler for crimes against humanity.

British officials are personally contacting Gaddafi’s loyalists to turn against their leader, The Guardian reports.

Meanwhile, the Foreign Secretary, William Hague, has urged Britons, who are still …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UK asks Gaddafi loyalists to withdraw support of face war crimes trial.

German consulate officer detained for injuring four Pak policemen released

KARACHI – German Consulate employee Martin, who had slammed his vehicle into a parked police van at a traffic signal in Karachi in the wee hours of Saturday, has been released five hours after his arrest.

Earlier, four police personnel were injured when their mobile van standing at a signal was hit by the German consulate’s … Read more >>.

Obamas name openly gay man as social secretary

LONDON – The White House is about to get its first ever male -and openly gay – social secretary.

Jeremy Bernard will serve as social secretary to President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle.

The job, traditionally filled by a woman, will put Bernard in ultimate charge of dispensing sumptuous White House hospitality at events from state … Original article on : Obamas name openly gay man as social secretary.

Meet the eight-year-old boy who rings bells up to 8 times his body weight!

LONDON – An eight-year-old from York rings bells weighing up to 32 stone, despite only weighing four stone himself.

Ewan Hull, who took up the hobby when he was five, is part of a bell-ringing family and joins nine others at St Wilfrid’s Church, in York.

What’s more, he is celebrating ringing his first quarter peal on … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Meet the eight-year-old boy who rings bells up to 8 times his body weight!.

Gaddafi’s sons may have salted away millions in secret Oz investments

SYDNEY – The sons of Libyan dictator Colonel Muammar Gaddafi may have salted away millions of dollars in oil money in hidden Australian investments during a series of visits to Sydney, Perth and Queensland over the past nine years.

In a trip to Sydney in 2006, million-dollar apartments in “the Toaster” at Circular Quay and several …. Source article  : Gaddafi’s sons may have salted away millions in secret Oz investments.

Christchurch quake death toll rises to 147

WELLINGTON – The death toll from the New Zealand earthquake has risen to 147, while 50 people remain “unaccounted for”.

Police say a previous figure of around 200 missing people had included confirmed fatalities.

“The number of deceased is now 147… we expect that all of those that we have confirmed have died will be on the … Read more >>>.

US man ‘rapes toddler at SeaWorld, saves crime pics on his phone’

NEW YORK – A man in US reportedly raped a toddler at SeaWorld and saved pictures of the horrific crime on his cell phone, according to police.ichael Grzybowicz, of Cocoa Beach Fla., has been held without bail in the Brevard County Jail since Saturday, reports the New York Daily News.

The 26-year-old allegedly molested the 2-year-old …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Celebrations planned in Sr. Nivedita’s birthtown in N. Ireland on 100th anniversary

NEVADA – Various events are being organized in Northern Ireland to celebrate Sister Nivedita’s (1867-1911) 100th death anniversary falling on October 13 this year, who was born as Margaret Elizabeth Noble in Northern Ireland but spent most of her adult years in India.

Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council in Northern Ireland, in partnership with the …. Original article  : Celebrations planned in Sr. Nivedita’s birthtown in N. Ireland on 100th anniversary.

Having an abortion is safer than having a baby, say UK docs

LONDON – Medical chiefs in Britain say pregnant women should be told that having an abortion is safer than having the baby.

The draft guidance from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists is for all doctors, nurses and counselors advising women contemplating terminations, reports the Telegraph.

Its first recommendation on “what women need to know” instructs … Read more »».

‘Voodoo sex ceremony’ sparked deadly Brooklyn blaze

NEW YORK – A Voodoo sex ceremony meant to bring good luck triggered the Brooklyn blaze that killed one person and left dozens homeless, sources have revealed.

A man identified by friends and neighbors as Nelson (Pepe) Pierre took 300 dollars from a woman to perform a mystic ceremony that promised to change her life, reports …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Voodoo sex ceremony’ sparked deadly Brooklyn blaze.

Winner of world’s first robot marathon crosses the line after 55 hrs!

LONDON – The average time for completing a marathon is 4 hours 30 minutes for men and 5 hours 10 minutes for women.

However, the winner of the world’s first robot marathon, Robovie PC, took a slightly more leisurely time of 54 hours, 57 minutes and 50.26 seconds, reports the Daily Mail.

The event, which started …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Winner of world’s first robot marathon crosses the line after 55 hrs!.

Pregnant Brit mums swapping fruit vouchers for booze, ciggies

WASHINGTON – Pregnant women in the UK are using NHS fruit and vegetable vouchers to obtain cigarettes and alcohol, reveals a Government report.he survey more than 2,000 retailers, health professionals and recipients has found that more than one in five knew of occasions when shops had swapped the tokens for products outside the scheme, reports … Read more »»».

Orissa Police seize 18 tons of silver in Puri

PURI – Orissa Police has seized 18 tons of silver bricks in Puri from the ancient Emar Mutt located in front of the 12th century Sri Jagannath Temple.

The incident came to light when some of the masons employed by the Orissa State Archaeology Department were engaged in repairing and renovation work of the ancient Emar … Read more »»».

Amir Khusrau’s legacy to come alive again

NEW DELHI – The legacy of 13th century Sufi poet Amir Khusrau will come alive in the capital at ‘Jahan-e-Khusrau’, the World Sufi Music Festival, to be held March 11-13.

Sufi musicians from India, Pakistan, Iran and Canada will congregate to revisit the music and poetry of the Sufi saint at the 14th century Arab …. Original article  : Amir Khusrau’s legacy to come alive again.

Engaging in gaze contest is a reflex

LONDON – If you accidentally knock over your neighbours beer in a bar and he stares at you, would you buy him a new drink or would you try to outstare him? New research suggests the dominance behaviour exhibited by staring someone down can be reflexive.

Our primate relatives certainly get into dominance battles, they …. Original article  : Engaging in gaze contest is a reflex.

PPP terms PML-N decision to end alliance in Punjab ’sad day for democracy’

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan People’s Party has termed the Pakistan Muslim League-N’s decision to expel its ministers from the Punjab government a ’sad day for democracy’, and declared that it would play the role of an effective opposition in the province.

“We would like to emerge as an effective opposition and hold the Punjab government accountable. … Read more »»».

Meghalaya CM rejects Agatha Sangma’s accusation on Rabha-Garo clashes

NEW DELHI – Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma has turned down accusations made by the Union Minister of State for Rural Development Agatha Sangma that the recent clashes between the Rabhas and the Garos in areas along the Assam-Meghalaya boundary could have been avoided had the government of both states taken prompt action.

“She should …. Original source  : Meghalaya CM rejects Agatha Sangma’s accusation on Rabha-Garo clashes.

War against Islam in Afghanistan partly of US’s own making: Gorbachev

LONDON – In a wide-ranging interview, former Soviet Union president Mikhail Gorbachev has said that the war against Islam as a conflict is partly of the US’s own making.

He also called on the David Cameron Government to withdraw British troops from Afghanistan.

“It’s called the historical and political boomerang,” The Independent quoted Gorbachev, as saying … Read : War against Islam in Afghanistan partly of US’s own making: Gorbachev.

‘Indian school board election is farce’, said Indian parents in Oman

MUSCAT – Social workers and parents have criticized the first elections of the Indian school board in Oman, calling it a farce.

“The whole process, right from the composition of the board to the procedure of the election is a farce and the process as announced by the Election Committee is unheard of in any democratic …. Read the original article  : here.

Australia withdraws diplomats from Libya amid unrest

CANBERRA – Australia has withdrawn its diplomats from Libya amid unrest in that country, which eventually prompted the United Nations to impose sanctions on Muammar Gaddafi’s regime.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard has said Australian Consul-General Tom Yates and two other officials had been evacuated to Malta as the Gaddafi’s regime intensified its crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrators …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Australia withdraws diplomats from Libya amid unrest.

UK brokered secret 10 billion pound deal to detoxify ‘Brand Libya’

LONDON – The British Government is reported to have brokered a secret deal with the Colonel Muammar Gaddafi regime worth up to 10 billion pounds before Libya descended into chaos.

According to a report in the Sunday Telegraph, for the past 18 months a dedicated Foreign Office unit had been supporting lawyers fighting to win compensation …. Original article  : UK brokered secret 10 billion pound deal to detoxify ‘Brand Libya’.

Krishna makes it to Kuwait military parade despite being caught in traffic snarl

KUWAIT CITY – Visiting Indian Foreign Minister S.M.Krishna just about made it to a military parade that was organised to celebrate Kuwait’s 50th Independence Day here, after being delayed by a traffic snarl.

The 50th anniversary of independence celebrations lit up the skies of Kuwait with fireworks of joy. It was a spectacle that was both … Original source on Gaea Times at : Krishna makes it to Kuwait military parade despite being caught in traffic snarl.

Social activists demand fullproof Ombudsman Bill to curb corruption

NEW DELHI – Prominent social activists such as Anna Hazare and ex-cop Kiran Bedi have demanded that the government introduce an Ombudsman Bill at the earliest to curb the spread of corruption in Indian society.

Criticising the present draft of the proposed Bill, Hazare said it has many loopholes and would not be able to check …. Original source  : Social activists demand fullproof Ombudsman Bill to curb corruption.

National Food Security Bill to be introduced in Parliament

NEW DELHI – Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Monday announced that the National Food Security Bill (NFSB) will be introduced in the Parliament during the course of this year.

Presenting the Union Budget 2011-12 in the Lok Sabha, Mukherjee said that the government is close to finalization of this bill after detailed consultations with all … Read more »».

Mukherjee allocates Rs.2,14,000 crore for infrastructure sector

NEW DELHI – Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Monday proposed an allocation of Rs.2,14,000 crore for infrastructure sector, which is 23.3 percent higher than the current year.

This amounts to 48.5 percent of the Gross Budgetary support to plan expenditure.

Announcing the General Budget 2011-12 in the Lok Sabha today, Mukherjee stated that in order …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hinduism discussion welcomed in rural Nevada

NEVADA – Well known Hindu statesman Rajan Zed spoke about religion in general and Hinduism in particular to a packed house of people belonging to different religions and denominations at “88 Cups Coffee and Tea” in Minden (Nevada, USA) on February 24 evening.

Audience, comprising of both older and younger seekers, including some atheists, had …. Source article  : Hinduism discussion welcomed in rural Nevada.

Foreign Direct Investment in India to be more user friendly

New Delhi, Feb 28 (ANI): Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee today said that to make the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy more user friendly, all prior regulations and guidelines have been consolidated into one comprehensive document, which is reviewed every six months.

Presenting the Union Budget for 2011-12 in the Parliament, Mukherjee said:”This is reviewed every … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Foreign Direct Investment in India to be more user friendly.

Larry the ratcatcher at Downing Street shows no interest in rodents

LONDON – The newly appointed rat catcher at Number 10, Downing Street, is said to show no interest at all in rodents and is spending most of his time curled up asleep.

Larry, the cat, had been expected to go after the rodents that had been seen scuttling down the street during television reports, but so …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US Army’s syc-ops’ on American lawmakers visiting Afghanistan ‘didn’t affect me’: McCain

WASHINGTON – Arizona Senator John McCain has said that the United States Army’s tactics to use psychological operations on U.S. lawmakers visiting Afghanistan did not have any impact on him.

“That’s been tried on me in the past. I don’t see how it could have affected my positions in any way. So we’ll see what … Read more >>>.

Muslim teaching asst. ‘felt like jumping in front of bus’ after being racially abused at UK school

LONDON – A Muslim teaching assistant in Britain has claimed that he ‘felt like jumping in front of a bus’ after being racially abused by his pupils, and was forced to file a police complaint after a student had threatened to rape his wife and children.

The Daily Mail quoted Khalid Akram as saying that he … Read more : Muslim teaching asst. ‘felt like jumping in front of bus’ after being racially abused at UK school.

PML-N has no place for political schemers, says Nawaz Sharif

LAHORE – Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) chief Nawaz Sharif has said that there is no place in the party for those who are trying to undermine the party by joining former President Pervez Musharraf.

“The party’s doors are wide open for those who remained loyal and caused no harm to it,” the News quoted Sharif, as …. Read the original article  : PML-N has no place for political schemers, says Nawaz Sharif.

PML-N to continue monitoring PPP’s performance

ISLAMABAD – Two days after expelling the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) from its Punjab government, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has said that it would continue monitoring the federal government’s measures to curb corruption.

“The PML-N will continue to monitor the Zardari administration’s performance very closely,” the Express Tribune quoted PML-N spokesperson Ahsan Iqbal, as saying.

“It …. Original article  : PML-N to continue monitoring PPP’s performance.

Foreign Direct Investment in India to be more user friendly

NEW DELHI – Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee today said that to make the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy more user friendly, all prior regulations and guidelines have been consolidated into one comprehensive document, which is reviewed every six months.

Presenting the Union Budget for 2011-12 in the Parliament, Mukherjee said:”This is reviewed every six months, … Original article on : Foreign Direct Investment in India to be more user friendly.

International Award in memory of Rabindranath Tagore

NEW DELHI – Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee today announced that an international award with a prize money of Rs. One crore will be instituted for promoting values of Universal Brotherhood in the memory of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore.

Presenting the Union Budget 2011-12 in the Lok Sabha, Mukherjee said that national celebrations of 150th Birth …. Original article  : International Award in memory of Rabindranath Tagore.

Finance Minister promises to strengthen regional rural banks

NEW DELHI – Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Monday said the regional rural banks will be strengthened to enable them to maintain a Capital to Risk Weighted Asset Ratio (CRAR) of at least nine per cent as on March 31.

Presenting the Union Budget 2010-11 in the Parliament today, Mukherjee said the government will provide … Original article on : Finance Minister promises to strengthen regional rural banks.

Mukherjee announces new tax concession to ‘Aam Admi’

NEW DELHI – Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Monday raised the income tax exemption limit for individuals from one lakh 60 thousand to one lakh 80 thousand rupees.

The age of senior citizens for tax benefits has been brought down from 65 to 60 years and the exemption limit raised for them from two lakh … Read more >>>.

Washington’s calm response to Gaddafi’s action guided by fears over safety of Americans in Libya

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration’s calm and diplomatic response towards the massive unrest in Libya, which had left even its reliable supporters stunned, was due to the warnings given by its diplomats in Tripoli saying that forceful messages from Washington could “endanger the security of American citizens” in the disturbed oil rich country.

The Washington …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Washington’s calm response to Gaddafi’s action guided by fears over safety of Americans in Libya.

There “possibly could be” military option for foreign forces in Libya: McCain

WASHINGTON – Arizona Senator John McCain has said the United States or international forces could provide support to Libyans seeking to overthrow Colonel Muammar Gaddafi regime.

On being asked if there is “a military option in Libya” for either the U.S., the North Atlantic Treaty Organization or the United Nations, beyond a no-fly zone, Politico …. Original article  : There “possibly could be” military option for foreign forces in Libya: McCain.

Libyan forces using western arms to deal with anti- Gaddafi protestors: EU

LONDON – Military hardware worth hundreds of millions of pounds, which were supplied to Libya by European and British arms firms, are now being used by the Gaddafi regime in a crackdown against pro-democracy protestors, an EU document has revealed.

The European Union’s latest arms control report, released in January this year, said that … Read more >>.

Pak court seeks govt. response over Raymond Davis’ facilities in jail

LAHORE – A Pakistan court has directed the federal and Punjab governments to submit a reply on a petition challenging the facilities being provided to double murder-accused Raymond Davis in jail.

According to the Dawn, the Lahore High Court (LHC) has asked the governments to submit a response by March 14.

The petition states that jail authorities … Read more : Pak court seeks govt. response over Raymond Davis’ facilities in jail.

Brit oldest dad of twins has 13th child at 72 but still wants more kids

LONDON – A British man, who became the oldest father of twins less than two years ago, has welcomed his 13th child at 72 and insists he wants even more children.

Richard Roden’s 26-year-old wife Lisa, who gave birth to twins Emily and Ruby, delivered another daughter Madison last month.

All three of the couple’s children were …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Brit oldest dad of twins has 13th child at 72 but still wants more kids.

India continues to face inflation, cause for concern: Mukherjee

NEW DELHI – Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Monday said inflation continues to remain a concern, but exuded confidence that the monetary policy of Reserve Bank of India will lead to reduction in inflation numbers in the coming months.

Presenting the Union Budget for 2011-12 in the Parliament, Mukherjee said: “It (inflation) clearly remains …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : India continues to face inflation, cause for concern: Mukherjee.

Highlights of Union Budget 2011-12 (Part-V)

NEW DELHI – Union Finance Minister Pranab Minister on Monday presented the Union Budget 2011-12 in the Parliament.

Highlights of Union Budget 2011-12 are as follows:

Allocation to health sector raised by 20 pct to 267.6 billion rupees in 2011/12

Nine lakh ex gratia payment for disabled defence personnel

50 more mega food parks proposed

Allocation for farm development increased

Agricultural …. Original source  : Highlights of Union Budget 2011-12 (Part-V).