Thursday, January 31, 2013

Kamal Haasan to meet Muslim leaders Friday | ummid.com

Kamal Haasan to meet Muslim leaders Friday | ummid.com
"We've submitted letters to the government requesting it to oversee the talks between Raj Kamal Films International and leaders of all 24 Muslim organisations," said Chandra Haasan.

New app lets users have sex with Facebook friends? | ummid.com

New app lets users have sex with Facebook friends? | ummid.com
The Bang With Friends app, aimed at 20-somethings, was created by three "college-aged" men from California, who are withholding their identities, according to US media reports.

ICC Women's World Cup: India start campaign with convincing win | ummid.com

ICC Women's World Cup: India start campaign with convincing win | ummid.com
Nagarajan Niranjana picked up three for 52 but it was the opening spell of new ball bowlers Jhulan Goswami (2-13) and Amita Sharma (1-28) that put the team from the Caribbean on the backfoot.

North Korea imposes martial law ahead of n-test | ummid.com

North Korea imposes martial law ahead of n-test | ummid.com
South Korean Joongang Daily also speculated that the new nuclear test could be held either Feb 16, the birthday of former leader Kim Jong-il, or Feb 25, the inauguration day of South Korean President-elect Park Geun-hye.

SC agrees to hear Ashis Nandy's plea | ummid.com

SC agrees to hear Ashis Nandy's plea | ummid.com
The apex court bench of Chief Justice Altamas Kabir, Justice Anil R. Dave and Justice Vikramajit Sen decided to take up Friday the plea by the academician after it was mentioned by counsel Aman Lekhi before the bench.

Check rights violations in Maharashtra: Activists urge NHRC chairman | ummid.com

Check rights violations in Maharashtra: Activists urge NHRC chairman | ummid.com
The representatives of the NGOs pointed out that the chairperson of the Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission had not been appointed by the government. They also said that the meeting of the state vigilance committee had not taken place for a long time.

Facebook outrage: Court drops charges against two women | ummid.com

Facebook outrage: Court drops charges against two women | ummid.com
Additional Superintendent of Police (Thane Rural) Sangram Nishandar was warned to be alert while dealing with such cases. Nishandar is alleged to have played a major role in siding with the Shiv Sena and ensuring the arrests of the two women.

Akhtar-Zeeshan earn a rare distinction in Davis Cup | ummid.com

Akhtar-Zeeshan earn a rare distinction in Davis Cup | ummid.com
Akhtar, who was part of the Davis Cup team that made the final in 1967, has been the India coach for over two decades in different phases. He was also in charge of the team that shocked a formidable French side in the 1993 Davis Cup quarterfinals.

Akhtar-Zeeshan earn a rare distinction in Davis Cup | ummid.com

Akhtar-Zeeshan earn a rare distinction in Davis Cup | ummid.com
Akhtar, who was part of the Davis Cup team that made the final in 1967, has been the India coach for over two decades in different phases. He was also in charge of the team that shocked a formidable French side in the 1993 Davis Cup quarterfinals.

Dhule Violence: Changing Anatomy of Communal Violence | ummid.com

Dhule Violence: Changing Anatomy of Communal Violence | ummid.com
              A week after violence broke out in Dhule – the North Maharashtra city some 350 kms from Mumbai, the victims are without

Cabinet approves Lokpal bill amendments | ummid.com

Cabinet approves Lokpal bill amendments | ummid.com
Given that two amendments recommended by the select panel have been turned down by the government, officials facing a preliminary probe will be given a hearing under the present draft of the bill, and the Lokpal will also have no power to transfer CBI officials investigating a case referred by it.

Arab Spring gives rise to new challenges | ummid.com

Arab Spring gives rise to new challenges | ummid.com
It said in its World Report 2013 that the willingness of new governments to respect rights will determine whether those uprisings give birth to genuine democracy or simply spawn authoritarianism in new forms.

Dhule professor beaten by Bajrang Dal, VHP activists | ummid.com

Dhule professor beaten by Bajrang Dal, VHP activists | ummid.com
Angered by comments that hurt religious sentiments, local activists allegedly belonging to right wing Hindu organisations Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Wednesday brutally beat a college professor working at Dr Ambedkar College of Social Work five kms from here, police said.

Jayalalitha defends 'Vishwaroopam' ban, to sue Karunanidhi | ummid.com

Jayalalitha defends 'Vishwaroopam' ban, to sue Karunanidhi | ummid.com
Jayalalithaa said it would have been near impossible to provide security to all the 524 cinema theatres in Tamil Nadu where the multilingual film was to be released after Muslim groups announced a string of protests.

Over 3,500-year-old sarcophagus found in Egypt | ummid.com

Over 3,500-year-old sarcophagus found in Egypt | ummid.com
Experts who for the past three years have explored the vicinity of the tombs of Djehuty and Hery, two high-ranking dignitaries of the Egyptian court between 1500 and 1450 B.C., discovered the intact funeral receptacle lying unprotected on the ground a few days ago.

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Asteroid to have a close brush with earth Feb 16 | ummid.com

Asteroid to have a close brush with earth Feb 16 | ummid.com
The near earth asteroid, 2012 DA14, about 148 metre in diameter, is on a close encounter course with the planet, and will come closest at around 12.55 a.m. Feb 16, according to Debiposad Duari, director, Research and Academic M.P. Birla Institute of Fundamental Research, of the M.P. Birla Planetarium here.

Indian soldiers did not behead Pakistani troops, says Antony | ummid.com

Indian soldiers did not behead Pakistani troops, says Antony | ummid.com
A day after the Indian Army described as "erroneous and speculative" the report, the defence minister too lent it the weight of his voice. The allegations, Antony told reporters on the sidelines of a function here, were "totally baseless".

Russian scientists approve space-grown vegetables | ummid.com

Russian scientists approve space-grown vegetables | ummid.com
Russian scientists plan to use the results of these experiments for compiling a list of plants suitable for cultivating during prolonged space missions, including manned flights to Mars and beyond.

India is Dubai airport's biggest destination country | ummid.com

India is Dubai airport's biggest destination country | ummid.com
The passenger traffic between Dubai and India continued to show robust growth last year, with total passenger traffic rising 7.4 percent year-on-year to 7.34 million.

Many films, multiple reasons for facing bans | ummid.com

Many films, multiple reasons for facing bans | ummid.com
Kamal Haasan's lavishly mounted multilingual "Vishwaroopam", which has yet to reach the theatres, is only the latest in a string of films caught in legal and other wrangles for purportedly hurting the sentiments of various sections of society. A look at some films in the last few years that have faced bans, whether official or social:

Pakistan's exports to India grow 66 percent | ummid.com

Pakistan's exports to India grow 66 percent | ummid.com
Pakistan's exports to India in April-December 2012 stood at $460 million, which is more than $277 million during the same period in 2011, an official statement issued by the Indian High Commission in Islamabad said.

Cabinet may take up Lokpal bill Thursday | ummid.com

Cabinet may take up Lokpal bill Thursday | ummid.com
According to sources, while the government has agreed to separate the Lokpal office from the Lokayuktas in states, it has not agreed to the panel's proposal on the appointment of the Central Bureau of Investigation's (CBI) director.

Google Maps shows North Korea for first time | ummid.com

Google Maps shows North Korea for first time | ummid.com
"This effort has been active in Map Maker for a few years and today the new map of North Korea is ready and available on Google Maps," said Map Maker senior product manager Jayanth Mysore.

Case against eatery for martyrs' names on napkins | ummid.com

Case against eatery for martyrs' names on napkins | ummid.com
The eatery, Kakori House in Nazibabad area of Aminabad, had got the names of some Kakori martyrs and the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, printed on napkins.

Tamil Nadu theatre fire-bombed over 'Vishwaroopam' screening | ummid.com

Tamil Nadu theatre fire-bombed over 'Vishwaroopam' screening | ummid.com
"Some miscreants attacked a theatre. However, nobody was injured," a police official told IANS over phone from Ramanathapuram district, where the incident took place. Ramanathapuram is about 310 km from here.

'Vishwaroopam' ban stays | ummid.com

'Vishwaroopam' ban stays | ummid.com
Screening of Kamal Haasan’s Vishwaroopam in Tamil Nadu has been deferred again with the Madras High Court on Wednesday setting aside a single judge’s order giving the green signal for the release. The actor now plans to move an appeal in the Supreme Court against the High Court order.

No Pakistani intrusion at Jammu border in six months: BSF | ummid.com

No Pakistani intrusion at Jammu border in six months: BSF | ummid.com
The BSF intensified its vigil along the 198-km long international border (IB) following the discovery of a 400-metre long and 20-foot deep tunnel that originated from Pakistan into the Indian side July 28, 2012, BSF Inspector General Ravi Krishna told reporters.

Chechen players head to scandal-hit Israeli club | ummid.com

Chechen players head to scandal-hit Israeli club | ummid.com
Reports that the two Terek Grozny players were to sign for Beitar Jerusalem, the only one of Israel's top clubs to have never fielded an Arab player, led to displays of anti-Muslim sentiment at a match Saturday and calls for Beitar to remain "pure".

Scientists decode secret of spider silk's strength | ummid.com

Scientists decode secret of spider silk's strength | ummid.com
Spider silk is an exceptional biological polymer, related to collagen (the material found in skin and bones) but much more complex in its structure. The extensive array of elastic and mechanical properties of spider silks in situ, obtained by the team, is the first of its kind.

Telangana leaders booked for offensive remarks | ummid.com

Telangana leaders booked for offensive remarks | ummid.com
A case under Indian Penal Code's section 153 A (Promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc., and doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony) was booked against them at Arandelpeta police station in Guntur.

HC stays non-bailable warrant against Raj Thackeray | ummid.com

HC stays non-bailable warrant against Raj Thackeray | ummid.com
The lawyers had said that Thackery had humiliated people from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh in a February 2008 speech, while ridiculing the performance of Chhath Puja.

HC stays non-bailable warrant against Raj Thackeray | ummid.com

HC stays non-bailable warrant against Raj Thackeray | ummid.com
The lawyers had said that Thackery had humiliated people from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh in a February 2008 speech, while ridiculing the performance of Chhath Puja.

Kamal Haasan threatens to move to 'secular state abroad' | ummid.com

Kamal Haasan threatens to move to 'secular state abroad' | ummid.com
"If by becoming a secular man like M.F. Husain, I can peacefully continue making films, then so be it," an anguished Kamal told reporters, referring to the late artist who died in a London hospital in June 2011 after being forced to leave the country following threats by right-wing activists upset with his paintings of Indian goddesses.

Nitish Kumar best prime ministerial candidate: JD-U leader | ummid.com

Nitish Kumar best prime ministerial candidate: JD-U leader | ummid.com
"There are several names doing the rounds for the post of PM. But Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is best among them," JD-U legislator from Chandi, Hari Kishore Singh told IANS by telephone.

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Where Gandhi died 65 years ago - this day | ummid.com

Where Gandhi died 65 years ago - this day | ummid.com
The expansive premises, which houses a museum that showcases the life and philosophy of the man Indians revere as the Father of the Nation, it is difficult to imagine that the man who always preached peace was violently killed by a Hindu zealot, Nathuram Godse.

Uddhav Thackeray hints at rapprochement with Raj | ummid.com

Uddhav Thackeray hints at rapprochement with Raj | ummid.com
"Why do you ask this question only to me? I am ready to reply. But for that you have to make us sit together, next to each other. Then you can ask the question to both of us. It depends on both sides," Thackeray said, hinting at the possibility of burying the hatchet with Raj.

What's at the core of Apple's next big thing? | ummid.com

What's at the core of Apple's next big thing? | ummid.com
"The stock today is trading at a level that looks like a massive revenue miss, and like there won't be any new product productions in 2013," said Trip Chowrdy, analyst and managing director at Global Equity Research a California-based firm that examines stock market trends.

Controversy on my article nonsense, don't feel unsafe in India: SRK | ummid.com

Controversy on my article nonsense, don't feel unsafe in India: SRK | ummid.com
Shah Rukh also took pot shots at those who offered him "unsolicited advice", saying: "We, in India, are extremely safe and happy. We have an amazing democratic, free and secular way of life."

100-year-old is Britain's oldest office boy | ummid.com

100-year-old is Britain's oldest office boy | ummid.com
A 100-year-old man has been revealed to be the oldest "office boy" in Britain after working for an astounding 86 years.

The biggest question: Do animals have a language? | ummid.com

The biggest question: Do animals have a language? | ummid.com
Almost half those polled (47 percent) believed female Praying Mantis eat the males after sex, although research has found that only happened once in 69 experiments.

Congress's Delhi legislator gets 3 years jail for rioting | ummid.com

Congress's Delhi legislator gets 3 years jail for rioting | ummid.com
Metropolitan Magistrate Dharmender Rana convicted Mateen Ahmad, the legislator from Seelampur and Zameer Ahmed, an ex-councillor, for rioting and obstructing government officials closing down polluting industries in 2001 while implementing the Supreme Court orders.

Palestine scholar wins 2013 King Faisal Award | ummid.com

Palestine scholar wins 2013 King Faisal Award | ummid.com
The Prize for medicine ( genetic factors of obesity) bagged jointly by Dr. Jeffrey Michael Friedmann and Dr. Douglas Leonard Coleman of the United States of America.

India's central bank cuts key rates, loans may get cheaper | ummid.com

India's central bank cuts key rates, loans may get cheaper | ummid.com
The repurchase rate, or the interest on short-term borrowings by commercial banks, has been cut by 25 basis points to 7.75 percent. The reverse repurchase rate, or interest on short-term lending, also stands lowered by 25 basis points to 6.75 percent.

Freedom of speech must not extend to right to offend: Tewari | ummid.com

Freedom of speech must not extend to right to offend: Tewari | ummid.com
"With the democratization of the information paradigm, it has to take into account what are the implications on social ethics, social milieu, social norms... Freedom of speech should not extend to the right to offend", he continued, adding that a "remedy" should be found to the issue.

India, Pakistan spar - this time over Shah Rukh Khan | ummid.com

India, Pakistan spar - this time over Shah Rukh Khan | ummid.com
Malik said in Islamabad that the Indian government should provide security to Shah Rukh, in the thick of a controversy over his remarks on being a Muslim that led to Jamaat-ud Dawa chief Hafiz Saeed saying the star could move to Pakistan.

Monday, January 28, 2013

The how and why of Shia killings in Pakistan | ummid.com

The how and why of Shia killings in Pakistan | ummid.com
Shias believe that Hazrat Ali, the prophet's nephew and son-in-law, was the rightful heir and that the prophet, during his lifetime, had given adequate indications of this. As such, the Shias do not recognise the first three caliphs (religious rulers regarded as the successors of the Prophet) and consider them usurpers.

Texas to execute woman murderer, first in US since 2010 | ummid.com

Texas to execute woman murderer, first in US since 2010 | ummid.com
McCarthy would also become the first woman executed in Texas in more than eight years and the fourth overall in the state, which executes the most people in the nation. Some 492 prisoners were reportedly executed in the state since capital punishment resumed 30 years ago.

India's K-15 launch: Defence scientists do nation proud | ummid.com

India's K-15 launch: Defence scientists do nation proud | ummid.com
All that remains to be tested is how the K-15's nuclear warhead will fare during its hypersonic flight and white-hot re-entry into the atmosphere; and the kind of explosive yield that its nuclear blast will deliver. However, the last bit may remain an unknown, in view of India's self-imposed 1998 test-moratorium and the comprehensive test-ban treaty.

New US citizenship plan could help 200,000 Indians | ummid.com

New US citizenship plan could help 200,000 Indians | ummid.com
Currently the sixth largest nationality of illegal immigrants behind Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and the Philippines, Indians are also the fastest growing illegal immigrant group in the US since 2000, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

A web site that makes others' dreams come true | ummid.com

A web site that makes others' dreams come true | ummid.com
Parlato recalled that his father - the son of an Italian immigrant who died when he was seven - "gave me some very clear ideas about finding people who have needs, getting involved in their lives and changing them completely - and being generous with whatever success one might have".

NHRC begins open hearing of cases | ummid.com

NHRC begins open hearing of cases | ummid.com
The National Human Rights Commission's (NHRC) three-day open hearing of about 570 cases of atrocities against Scheduled Castes in Maharashtra began in Nagpur Monday, a statement from the apex human rights body said in Delhi.

The conflict in Mali: Time India spoke, acted | ummid.com

The conflict in Mali: Time India spoke, acted | ummid.com
Scholars from around the Islamic world travelled to the city to study at the universities of Sankore, Jingaray Ber and Sidi Yahya. Sankore at one time had some 25,000 students and 180 Koranic schools. Today, in Mali's ongoing conflict, Timbuktu's glorious past has become another victim.

Prepare policy before investors meet, industry tells Bengal | ummid.com

Prepare policy before investors meet, industry tells Bengal | ummid.com
The three-day 'Bengal Leads' in Haldia during Jan 15-17 saw a lacklustre response from industry captains. The new industrial policy was expected to be announced at the meet but was not.

Dhule firing victims demand SIT probe, file PIL in SC | ummid.com

Dhule firing victims demand SIT probe, file PIL in SC | ummid.com
The PIL which is jointly filed by Mohammad G. Naseer, father of the deceased Asim Ahmad (24), Asif Ali, elder brother of deceased Imran Ali (23) years and ANHAD has also demanded action against the police personnel and government.

Yashwant Sinha backs Modi as BJP's PM candidate | ummid.com

Yashwant Sinha backs Modi as BJP's PM candidate | ummid.com
"Wherever I go, common people and party workers say they want Narendra Modi to be the prime ministerial candidate from the BJP and the party will benefit from it," Sinha told reporters here.

N.Koreans eating own kids in famine-hit country? | ummid.com

N.Koreans eating own kids in famine-hit country? | ummid.com
People in the farming provinces of North and South Hwanghae are battling starvation after a drought. Shortages were compounded by party officials who reportedly confiscated food.

7 Congress MPs to resign for Telangana | ummid.com

7 Congress MPs to resign for Telangana | ummid.com
The MPs declared after a meeting here that they would Tuesday send their resignation letters, addressed to the Lok Sabha speaker, to party president Sonia Gandhi.

Would have led mobs to demolish Taj Mahal: Azam Khan | ummid.com

Would have led mobs to demolish Taj Mahal: Azam Khan | ummid.com
The minister Sunday said while the riots after the Babri Mosque demolition saddened him, he would have led the frenzied crowds had they decided to bring down the Taj Mahal.

Muslim scholars rebut media report about Rushdie debate | ummid.com

Muslim scholars rebut media report about Rushdie debate | ummid.com
Convenor of the seminar called on Prophet Mohammad here on Sunday Prof Ibrahim Khalil Abedi and Dr Shakeel Samdani who was one of the speakers refuted, and distanced them and the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB), from the report that said Muslim scholars were considering to invite Salaman Rushdie to a debate.

Sunday, January 27, 2013

Shinde on Hindutva Terror: Terminological Confusions | ummid.com

Shinde on Hindutva Terror: Terminological Confusions | ummid.com
So all this protests and threats of BJP, threats to disrupt the session of Parliament are their usual political tactics and do not have any meaning, as their indirect or direct association with the terrorists is so much obvious. What Shinde is stating is factual but terminology is confused, and that’s not due to his own fault.

US-based linguist discovers a new dialect in Bihar | ummid.com

US-based linguist discovers a new dialect in Bihar | ummid.com
For example "We are going" would be rendered "hum jaa rahain hain" in Hindi, "hum jaay rahal chhii" in Maithli and "hum jaa rahain hain" in Urdu sentence. But in the new dialect it would be: "ham jaa rahaliya hae". Also, there is no agentive marker "-ne" in Mithilanchal Urdu.

Modi discusses 2014 polls with BJP chief, signals national role | ummid.com

Modi discusses 2014 polls with BJP chief, signals national role | ummid.com
Modi, who visited Singh at his residence, said: "I sought his (Singh's) guidance for what more should the BJP do to serve the people in Gujarat and the people of India. We also had detailed discussions on the coming general elections."

Government defers Telangana decision; BJP, TRS slam betrayal | ummid.com

Government defers Telangana decision; BJP, TRS slam betrayal | ummid.com
"The consultation process on Telangana issue is on. It may take little more time to reach a final decision," union Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde said in a brief statement in the national capital after it appeared certain that the Jan 28 deadline set by him to decide on the issue would be missed.

Diet, quality pre-school can boost kid's IQ | ummid.com

Diet, quality pre-school can boost kid's IQ | ummid.com
A team led by John Protzko, doctoral student at the New York University Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, combined the findings from existing studies to evaluate the overall effectiveness of each type of intervention.

Mobile jammers, CCTVs, barbed wires at Goa schools | ummid.com

Mobile jammers, CCTVs, barbed wires at Goa schools | ummid.com
With the rapist still untraced and on the run and a team of over a dozen policemen floundering in their probe, institutions spurred on by a worried education ministry are now coming up with 'innovations' to keep their children safe.

Mobile jammers, CCTVs, barbed wires at Goa schools | ummid.com

Mobile jammers, CCTVs, barbed wires at Goa schools | ummid.com
With the rapist still untraced and on the run and a team of over a dozen policemen floundering in their probe, institutions spurred on by a worried education ministry are now coming up with 'innovations' to keep their children safe.

Iran to build nation's biggest car factory by 2015 | ummid.com

Iran to build nation's biggest car factory by 2015 | ummid.com
Xinhua says Iran's vehicle makers are facing rising costs and lack of technological know-how as many foreign companies have left the country because of sanctions imposed due to Tehran's disputed nuclear programme.

Iran to build nation's biggest car factory by 2015 | ummid.com

Iran to build nation's biggest car factory by 2015 | ummid.com
Xinhua says Iran's vehicle makers are facing rising costs and lack of technological know-how as many foreign companies have left the country because of sanctions imposed due to Tehran's disputed nuclear programme.

180 killed in Brazil nightclub fire | ummid.com

180 killed in Brazil nightclub fire | ummid.com
Mayor Gerson da Rosa Ferreira said the deaths were caused by asphyxiation or trampling and that 500 people were in the nightclub when the fire broke out.

Bangalore's Vir Menon wins Malaysian regatta | ummid.com

Bangalore's Vir Menon wins Malaysian regatta | ummid.com
Vir Menon graduated to the Laser 4.7 in October 2011. In January 2012, when not yet 14 years, he won the gold in the NSSR in Mumbai and later represented India at the Laser 4.7 Worlds in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he qualified in the Gold Fleet, the first Indian to do so.

Hundreds gather for Telangana protest in Hyderabad | ummid.com

Hundreds gather for Telangana protest in Hyderabad | ummid.com
Protestors belonging to the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), Communist Party of India (CPI), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and other political and non-political organisations and students were reaching Indira Park to stage their demonstation.

Saturday, January 26, 2013

Universe has actually cooled down: Study | ummid.com

Universe has actually cooled down: Study | ummid.com
Using the Commonwealth Scientific Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Australia Telescope Compact Array in New South Wales, a team from Sweden, France, Germany and Australia has measured how warm the Universe was when it was half its current age.

'Movies, TV impact tobacco users more than newspapers' | ummid.com

'Movies, TV impact tobacco users more than newspapers' | ummid.com
"Newspapers do carry tobacco advertisements but are also likely to carry stories on the harmful effects of smoking. As a result, it is likely that the impact of newspapers on pro-tobacco beliefs and behaviours may be more muted," says the study.

30 killed in Egypt clashes over death verdict | ummid.com

30 killed in Egypt clashes over death verdict | ummid.com
The clashes erupted when relatives and supporters of the convicts tried to storm the prison holding them and attacked police stations following the verdict of the Port Said criminal court.

Karnataka governor says CM Shettar has majority for now | ummid.com

Karnataka governor says CM Shettar has majority for now | ummid.com
The 13 assembly members of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party are loyalists of party's former leader B.S. Yeddyurappa and have been waiting since Wednesday for Speaker K.G. Bopaiah to submit their resignations.

No police permission, but JAC firm on Telangana protest | ummid.com

No police permission, but JAC firm on Telangana protest | ummid.com
Joint Action Committee (JAC) convenor M. Kodandaram told reporters Saturday that they would organise the 'Samara deeksha' protest on a large scale at Indira Park to press the central government to make an announcement for statehood to Telangana by Jan 28.

Harvard varsity students plan India-Pakistan peace vigil | ummid.com

Harvard varsity students plan India-Pakistan peace vigil | ummid.com
Sponsored by the South Asia Centre, Boston, and the Alliance for Secular and Democratic South Asia, the vigil at Harvard Square is aimed at voicing the students' concern over ceasefire violations at the LoC and the war hype being built up by "sections of the media and politicians in India that threatens peace in the region."

Ashis Nandy booked under SC/SC Act | ummid.com

Ashis Nandy booked under SC/SC Act | ummid.com
A first information report (FIR) has been registered against him at the Ashok Nagar police station under the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act (SC/ST Act) and one section of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), police said.

Islamaphobic Lego toy angers Austria's Turkish community | ummid.com

Islamaphobic Lego toy angers Austria's Turkish community | ummid.com
One of the buildings is a “one-to-one copy” of the Hagia Sophia mosque in Istanbul, while the figure with an axe and machine gun in the minaret-like structure could be a muezzin, the Turkish Cultural Community said.

Five arrested in London for anti gay, mini-skirt video | ummid.com

Five arrested in London for anti gay, mini-skirt video | ummid.com
Five people have been arrested in London after videos emerged online of a group of men abusing passers-by for being gay, drinking alcohol or wearing mini-skirts in what they said was a “Muslim area,” police said.

Nandy says backward classes are corrupt; Dalit leader upset | ummid.com

Nandy says backward classes are corrupt; Dalit leader upset | ummid.com
Nandy stirred up a controversy at the Jaipur Literature Festival Saturday, saying most of the corrupt in the country were people from the other backward classes (OBC), the Scheduled Castes (SC) and the Scheduled Tribes (ST).

Ramayana in Arabic unveiled in Jaipur Lit Fest | ummid.com

Ramayana in Arabic unveiled in Jaipur Lit Fest | ummid.com
Mahdi stressed the importance of cultural cooperation between India and the Arabic world, as he welcomed the delegates from Kalima, a cross-cultural translation and publishing initiative from Abu Dhabi.

Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) and contemporary Muslims | ummid.com

Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) and contemporary Muslims | ummid.com
Start with the self-appointed guardians of faith. They preach piety, but are they pious? Do they live by the tenets of Islam? They preach, but do not practice. What about those who spew hate, abuse and defame others – all in the name of religion? Have they not read about the Prophet’s attitude and behavior toward all those around him including the ones who abused him and tried to kill him?

Anti-Pakistan content gets video games off shelves in Pakistan | ummid.com

Anti-Pakistan content gets video games off shelves in Pakistan | ummid.com
According to gameinformer, the world's largest video game magazine, the All Pakistan CD, DVD, Audio Cassette Traders and Manufacturers Association has directed that "Call of Duty: Black Ops II' and "Medal of Honour: Warfighter" be taken off the shelves as they "show Pakistan in very poor light".

Anti-Pakistan content gets video games off shelves in Pakistan | ummid.com

Anti-Pakistan content gets video games off shelves in Pakistan | ummid.com
According to gameinformer, the world's largest video game magazine, the All Pakistan CD, DVD, Audio Cassette Traders and Manufacturers Association has directed that "Call of Duty: Black Ops II' and "Medal of Honour: Warfighter" be taken off the shelves as they "show Pakistan in very poor light".

Military hardware, cultural diversity blend at R-Day parade | ummid.com

Military hardware, cultural diversity blend at R-Day parade | ummid.com
The marching contingents from the armed forces, the paramilitary and National Cadet Corps vied for attention besides school students in traditional costumes and a breathtaking canvas provided by tableaux from 19 states and government departments.

BJP's 'galaxy' - more liability than asset | ummid.com

BJP's 'galaxy' - more liability than asset | ummid.com
Even at the time, the choice raised eyebrows because Rajnath Singh was - and still is - regarded as a "provincial", the unflattering word used by Jaswant Singh when he was dismissed from the BJP for repeating Advani's folly of lauding Jinnah in a book.

Manipur blast mars Republic Day | ummid.com

Manipur blast mars Republic Day | ummid.com
Separatist rebels triggered an improvised explosive device blast at Wangbal in Thoubal district, police said. No one was injured.

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Palestinians threaten to approach ICC over Israeli settlements | ummid.com

Palestinians threaten to approach ICC over Israeli settlements | ummid.com
Riad Malki, Palestinian foreign minister, said on Wednesday his government's decision will largely depend on what the Israelis do with the so-called "E1" area outside the Arab suburbs of East Jerusalem.

Rs.202.8 crore earnings help SRK top Forbes India Celebrity list | ummid.com

Rs.202.8 crore earnings help SRK top Forbes India Celebrity list | ummid.com
Both Salman and Dhoni are ahead of Shah Rukh in terms of popularity and fame, but King Khan occupies the top spot courtesy his earning power, mainly riding on massive income from brand endorsements, according to the official website of the magazine.

Activists seek wider probe into 'Hindutva terror' | ummid.com

Activists seek wider probe into 'Hindutva terror' | ummid.com
"Bomb blasts are followed predictably by mass arrests of Muslim youth, raids in Muslim-dominated localities, detentions, arrests and torture; media trials, charge-sheets and prosecution based on custodial confessions and little real evidence.

Hindu Terror: BJP threatens parliament ruckus to force Shinde out | ummid.com

Hindu Terror: BJP threatens parliament ruckus to force Shinde out | ummid.com
Underlining that the BJP's protest was not symbolic but will "go to the logical end", Rajnath Singh said while the party did not expect the prime minister to speak as he "reacts with delay", Sonia Gandhi should have reacted.

Gadkari to IT officials: Remember, Congress on its way out | ummid.com

Gadkari to IT officials: Remember, Congress on its way out | ummid.com
Gadkari arrived in his home town of Nagpur Thursday to a massive welcome, after narrowly missing a second term as party president after Tuesday's Income Tax 'surveys' of around nine locations connected to alleged financial wrongdoing by a company linked to him.

Nothing wrong in Shinde's Hindu terror comment: Narayanasamy | ummid.com

Nothing wrong in Shinde's Hindu terror comment: Narayanasamy | ummid.com
"People who were arrested in the Malegaon incident and the Samjhauta Express blast were found to be members of some of the Hindu fundamentalist groups and it was in that context the home minister said this. I don't see any kind of objection to any part of his statement," Narayanasamy told reporters.

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Woman refuses to marry mentally unstable man, faces boycott | ummid.com

Woman refuses to marry mentally unstable man, faces boycott | ummid.com
A Rajasthan community panchayat has ordered a social boycott of a 20-year old woman and her family after she refused to marry a mentally unstable man, with whom she was engaged 15 years ago, police said Thursday.

Uttar Pradesh to buy 15 lakh laptops from HP India | ummid.com

Uttar Pradesh to buy 15 lakh laptops from HP India | ummid.com
The distribution of free laptops to all students passing Class 12 was a major promise of the ruling Samajwadi Party (SP) in the run-up to the state assembly polls.

'Insulted' by Mamata, artist to quit official panels | ummid.com

'Insulted' by Mamata, artist to quit official panels | ummid.com
"Samir Aich had walked in a procession for us. I respect him for that. But just because he walked in a procession, he does not become a Trinamool Congress man. He was never in the Trinamool Congress. So why does he claim himself to be a Trinamool man? Please don't do it.

Justice Verma panel for amendment to AFSPA | ummid.com

Justice Verma panel for amendment to AFSPA | ummid.com
In its 631-page voluminous report, the three-member committee has proposed amendment to Section 6 of the AFSPA which gives the Indian armed forces arbitrary powers in the states that have been declared "disturbed areas" riddled with militancy.

Rajnath Singh as BJP President: Challenges ahead | ummid.com

Rajnath Singh as BJP President: Challenges ahead | ummid.com
After the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister emerged as the consensus candidate for the top BJP post following the exit of Nitin Gadkari, party leaders here feel that the wily Thakur from Chandauli has a tough task cut out for him.

Indian scientist wins Chinese award | ummid.com

Indian scientist wins Chinese award | ummid.com
Rao is devoted to the research of solid-state and structural chemistry. He has been awarded for his important contributions in boosting scientific cooperation between China and India.

Verma panel spares no one - Delhi government, police or public | ummid.com

Verma panel spares no one - Delhi government, police or public | ummid.com
Using strong words, the three-member committee that submitted its report to Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde Wednesday, said: "practically every serious breach of the rule of law can be traced to the failure of performance by the persons responsible in its implementation."

Life term for rapists, speedy justice for victims, says Verma panel | ummid.com

Life term for rapists, speedy justice for victims, says Verma panel | ummid.com
The three-member committee, headed by Justice Verma, constituted to look into rape laws in the wake of the gruesome gang-rape of the 23-year-old physiotherapist trainee Dec 16, submitted its report to the government Wednesday. It stopped short of recommending death penalty for gang-rape.

India win 4th ODI, clinch series 3-1 | ummid.com

India win 4th ODI, clinch series 3-1 | ummid.com
India beat England by five wickets in the fourth One-Day International (ODI) to take an unassailable 3-1 in the five-match series here at the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium Wednesday.

HC quashes property tax notice issued to Jamia Islamia | ummid.com

HC quashes property tax notice issued to Jamia Islamia | ummid.com
The South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) had Dec 31, 2012, issued a notice to the university for recovery of more than Rs.2 crore in property tax from 2010 onwards.

Digvijaya's poser on Rajnath's meeting with blast accused | ummid.com

Digvijaya's poser on Rajnath's meeting with blast accused | ummid.com
with different photos

Karnataka BJP in trouble, two ministers quit | ummid.com

Karnataka BJP in trouble, two ministers quit | ummid.com
Public Works Minister C.M. Udasi and Energy Minister Shobha Karandlaje, loyalists of former BJP leader B.S. Yeddyurappa, submitted their resignations to Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar here.

Mumbai chawl girl tops CA exams | ummid.com

Mumbai chawl girl tops CA exams | ummid.com
Speaking to the hordes of media-persons thronging the family home the past couple of days, Prema acknowledged that her father Jayakumar Perumal's income was around Rs.15,000 per month, barely sufficient to sustain the family. Perumal hails from Tamil Nadu.

Rajnath Singh elected BJP President | ummid.com

Rajnath Singh elected BJP President | ummid.com
Rajnath Singh has previously been the president of the party from 2005 to 2009. He first became the party president in December 2005, following the resignation of L.K. Advani.

Aspirin use may cause age-related blindness | ummid.com

Aspirin use may cause age-related blindness | ummid.com
Aspirin is one of the world's most popular drugs for prevention of cardiovascular disease like myocardial infarction (heart attack) and ischemic stroke (poor blood supply to heart).

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Fast food linked to asthma, eczema: Study | ummid.com

Fast food linked to asthma, eczema: Study | ummid.com
The findings of the research led by professor Innes Asher and Philippa Ellwood from the University of Auckland's department of paediatrics could have huge implications for public health.

New glasses block facial recognition software | ummid.com

New glasses block facial recognition software | ummid.com
The prototype spectacles have been designed by scientists at Tokyo's National Institute of Informatics. The glasses are equipped with a near-infrared light source that "confuses" the software without affecting vision.

'For a woman's safety, mindsets need changing' | ummid.com

'For a woman's safety, mindsets need changing' | ummid.com
Ruchira Gupta of Apne Aap, an NGO that works against the trafficking of women, says that while it is a good thing that people are talking about and measures are being taken for the safety of women in public places, an equal emphasis should be given on ensuring their safety in their own homes.

'Gender discrimination in India worse than sub-Saharan Africa' | ummid.com

'Gender discrimination in India worse than sub-Saharan Africa' | ummid.com
Capitalist development in India neither broke the old community which provided the base for patriarchy and caste system nor created anywhere to the same degree the basis for formation of a new community, said the former Jawaharlal Nehru University professor.

Project Hilsa: Indian scientists seek to save prized fish | ummid.com

Project Hilsa: Indian scientists seek to save prized fish | ummid.com
Hilsa, or ilish as it is known here in Bengal, like salmon, migrates from seawater to freshwater to breed. After laying eggs, the current generation of the fish dies and the newly-hatched ones go back to the sea and repeat the same cycle again.

Did 8th century gamma ray burst hit earth? | ummid.com

Did 8th century gamma ray burst hit earth? | ummid.com
Carbon-14 and Beryllium-10 form when radiation from space collides with nitrogen atoms, which then decay to these heavier forms of carbon and beryllium, the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society reports.

'Tainted' Gadkari opts out in last minute; Rajnath likely to get BJP top post | ummid.com

'Tainted' Gadkari opts out in last minute; Rajnath likely to get BJP top post | ummid.com
The development followed Tuesday's Income Tax 'surveys' of around nine locations connected to alleged financial wrongdoing by company linked to Gadkari and signals by party MP Yashwant Sinha that he could contest if Gadkari was re-nominated.

Haj through Haj Committee restricted to once in a lifetime | ummid.com

Haj through Haj Committee restricted to once in a lifetime | ummid.com
In what is seen as a step closer to phase out the subsidy given to Hajis, the Central government on Tuesday announced to restrict the number of Hajis going to Makkah through the Haj Committee of India to once in a lifetime.

McDonald’s pays $700k to US Muslims for false halal food | ummid.com

McDonald’s pays $700k to US Muslims for false halal food | ummid.com
A Muslim Detroit resident, Ahmed Ahmed, claimed he bought a chicken sandwich in September 2011 but found it was not halal, Al Arabiya reported quoting the Daily Mail on Tuesday.

Yashwant Sinha may contest Gadkari's re-election as BJP chief | ummid.com

Yashwant Sinha may contest Gadkari's re-election as BJP chief | ummid.com
Sinha had targetted Gadkari last year after corruption charges surfaced against the latter's company, Purti Group, and suggested he should step down as the party president.

Two held in Mumbai for circulating fake currency notes; terror link suspected | ummid.com

Two held in Mumbai for circulating fake currency notes; terror link suspected | ummid.com
"The duo - Farooq Naiku, 37, and Mohammed Talukdar, 32 - were arrested from a guest house in south Mumbai Jan 16. They have been remanded in police custody till Wednesday," Joint Commissioner of Police (Crime Branch) Himanshu Roy told reporters here.

Indian chemical firms to set up joint ventures in Indonesia | ummid.com

Indian chemical firms to set up joint ventures in Indonesia | ummid.com
The BSM was organised by the Indian embassy in association with the Federation of Indonesia Chemical Industry (FIKI) and KADIN Jakarta to create a positive brand image of Indian business and bridging the information gap.

TN corporation fined Rs.26 lakh for delay in disbursing loan | ummid.com

TN corporation fined Rs.26 lakh for delay in disbursing loan | ummid.com
The Tamil Nadu Industrial Investment Corporation Ltd (TIIC) was dragged to the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission by Packer Sea Food, a company based in Kanyakumari district, that alleged dithering on the release of an instalment of a loan sanctioned for construction of a factory.

Home secretary backs Shinde on 'saffron terror' | ummid.com

Home secretary backs Shinde on 'saffron terror' | ummid.com
"The list of 10 names which have come up as the accused in the Mecca Masjid and the Samjhauta Express blasts have been associated with the RSS at some point," he told reporters here.

Humans are plague on Earth, says David Attenborough | ummid.com

Humans are plague on Earth, says David Attenborough | ummid.com
The 86-year-old Attenborough is also a patron of the Optimum Population Trust, a think-tank on population growth on long-term sustainability, quality of life and the natural environment, specifically natural resources, climate change, and biodiversity.

Mushawarat condemn AP govt’s action against Owaisis; demand their release | ummid.com

Mushawarat condemn AP govt’s action against Owaisis; demand their release | ummid.com
All India Muslim Majlis-e Mushawarat (AIMMM) on Tuesday said that action against Majlis Ittehadul Muslimin leader and Member of Parliament Asaduddin Owaisi was a clear case of "political vendetta" taken because he decided to opt out of the ruling coalition.

Shinde's 'Hindu Terror' comments based on facts: Khurshid | ummid.com

Shinde's 'Hindu Terror' comments based on facts: Khurshid | ummid.com
"Our stated position is based entirely on facts as the investigative agencies have made available to the government... Attempts to divert attention and to push it in a particular and premeditated direction by some people is repudiated by the information that is available," Khurshid told reporters.

Shutdown in Hyderabad to protest Asaduddin Owaisi's arrest | ummid.com

Shutdown in Hyderabad to protest Asaduddin Owaisi's arrest | ummid.com
MIM general secretary Ahmed Pasha Khadri said the party has not called for shutdown but it was people in districts and towns who were voluntarily keeping their shops and business establishments closed to show solidarity with Owaisi.

Chautala, son get 10 years in jail | ummid.com

Chautala, son get 10 years in jail | ummid.com
Apart from the Chautalas, Sanjiv Kumar, the then director of primary education, Chautala's former officer on special duty Vidya Dhar and his political adviser Sher Singh Badshami were also awarded the jail terms.

Monday, January 21, 2013

India suggests winding up UN observers in Kashmir | ummid.com

India suggests winding up UN observers in Kashmir | ummid.com
"India is proud to have been associated with UN peacekeeping from its very inception," he said, noting New Delhi has contributed more than 100,000 peacekeepers to virtually every UN peacekeeping operation in the past six decades.

Karnataka budget day fixed, BJP waits for Yeddyurappa to srike | ummid.com

Karnataka budget day fixed, BJP waits for Yeddyurappa to srike | ummid.com
The ministers, C.M. Udasi (public works), Shobha Karandlaje (energy), M.P. Renukacharya (excise) and Murugesh Nirani (industries), are also keeping the Bharatiya Janata Party on tenterhooks by maintaining silence on their plans.

Destitute former Shiv Sena minister adopted by NGO | ummid.com

Destitute former Shiv Sena minister adopted by NGO | ummid.com
Former Shiv Sena leader Shabbir Shaikh, (72), a two-time legislator from Ambernath and labour and minority affairs minister in the erstwhile Shiv Sena-BJP government, was taken from his small home in Kalyan to a senior citizens' home in Aurangabad.

Stringent Lokpal bill soon, PMO to Anna Hazare | ummid.com

Stringent Lokpal bill soon, PMO to Anna Hazare | ummid.com
Listing efforts made by the government in these directions, Narayanasamy said in the letter: "The government has taken all steps necessary to give effect to all three recommendations communicated to you in Aug 2011."

CJI lauds gang-rape protests, regrets their hijacking | ummid.com

CJI lauds gang-rape protests, regrets their hijacking | ummid.com
"What happened that day (Dec 16) was not something new...but it caught the imagination of the people and led to a tremendous upsurge, and this upsurge as I have said earlier also, was fully justified. What started as a protest, as a mark of showing one's anger, it was all genuine, absolutely necessary...," Chief Justice Kabir said.

Christians angry over Christ's picture, Facebook post | ummid.com

Christians angry over Christ's picture, Facebook post | ummid.com
Lonkar has sought to dissociate himself from the issue, saying that the printer had downloaded the image from internet. Lonkar said he has withdrawn the calendar.

India must change its Colombo policy, pleads Sri Lankan MP | ummid.com

India must change its Colombo policy, pleads Sri Lankan MP | ummid.com
"One could understand a certain Sri Lanka policy India followed when the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) was there," the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) member told IANS here.

Obama has a second date with history | ummid.com

Obama has a second date with history | ummid.com
Palpably there is much less excitement in the air than it was back in 2009 when an estimated 1.8 million people gathered at the National Mall for the inaugural ceremony of the man who had created history by winning the presidency with a promise of hope and change.

Asad Owaisi's arrest sparks tension, shutdown in Hyderabad | ummid.com

Asad Owaisi's arrest sparks tension, shutdown in Hyderabad | ummid.com
The MIM leader, his younger brother Akbaruddin Owaisi and others were booked by police Mar 16, 2005, for obstructing officials from carrying out demolition of a place of worship to facilitate road extension at Muttangi village.

Asaduddin Owaisi surrenders, sent to jail | ummid.com

Asaduddin Owaisi surrenders, sent to jail | ummid.com
The MIM chief's arrest sparked tension and violent protests in parts of Hyderabad. Protestors stoned shops and buses in some places. Shops and business establishments were shut down in the old city and other Muslim-majority areas as MIM leaders called for a strike.

Sunday, January 20, 2013

Law alone can't curb rapes: Jamaat-e-Islami chief | ummid.com

Law alone can't curb rapes: Jamaat-e-Islami chief | ummid.com
Says co-education giving rise to obscenity; girls should have separate schools
Umri wanted the government to recognise only marriages performed according to religious rites. "Hindus, Muslims and Christians marry according to their customs. Only such marriages should be legally recognised," he said.

Khaps caution Arya Samaj temples against same-gotra weddings | ummid.com

Khaps caution Arya Samaj temples against same-gotra weddings | ummid.com
The decision to caution Arya Samaj was taken at a meeting of Sarva Jatiya Khap held at Chhotu Ram Dharamshala in Haryana's Jhajjar town, about 70 km away Delhi, Sunday evening.

DMK parliamentarian demands jail for officials rejecting education loans | ummid.com

DMK parliamentarian demands jail for officials rejecting education loans | ummid.com
Thamaraiselvan Saturday took up with Indian Overseas Bank's senior officials the case of V.M. Nithya, a rank holder of Periyar University, whose application for an education loan of Rs.20,000 was rejected by the bank.

Andhra may slip into political chaos over Telangana | ummid.com

Andhra may slip into political chaos over Telangana | ummid.com
Even parties like the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) and Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (MIM), which were opposing Andhra Pradesh's division, want the centre to end the uncertainty haunting the state for three years.

RSS, BJP training camps fomenting Hindu terror, says Shinde; BJP upset | ummid.com

RSS, BJP training camps fomenting Hindu terror, says Shinde; BJP upset | ummid.com
The ghastly rape has also opened up the debate of children's safety in Goa, even forcing the state education ministry and concerned parents to take steps to beef up the vigil against pervert lurkers on school campuses.

Saturday, January 19, 2013

Sonia Gandhi to address Aligarh Muslim University convocation | ummid.com

Sonia Gandhi to address Aligarh Muslim University convocation | ummid.com              The announcement was made after a meeting, presided over by AMU Vice Chancellor Lt. Gen. (retd.) Zameeruddin Shah, to discuss various issues for the annual convocation, slated for Feb 16.

Rahul Gandhi is Congress no 2, will be party's face in 2014 | ummid.com

Rahul Gandhi is Congress no 2, will be party's face in 2014 | ummid.com
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was the first to offer Rahul Gandhi a bouquet. Thereafter, a host of leaders lined up to offer him boquets and garland him.

Rahul Gandhi is Congress no 2, will be party's face in 2014 | ummid.com

Rahul Gandhi is Congress no 2, will be party's face in 2014 | ummid.com
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was the first to offer Rahul Gandhi a bouquet. Thereafter, a host of leaders lined up to offer him boquets and garland him.

Friday, January 18, 2013

Indian American develops stain proof surfaces | ummid.com

Indian American develops stain proof surfaces | ummid.com
The scientists conclude that the surfaces will ensure stain-free clothing, spill-resistant, breathable protective wear, surfaces that shrug off microbes like bacteria and corrosion-resistant coatings.

Indian American develops stain proof surfaces | ummid.com

Indian American develops stain proof surfaces | ummid.com
The scientists conclude that the surfaces will ensure stain-free clothing, spill-resistant, breathable protective wear, surfaces that shrug off microbes like bacteria and corrosion-resistant coatings.

All eyes on Rahul. But will he oblige? | ummid.com

All eyes on Rahul. But will he oblige? | ummid.com

The 42-year-old MP, who has been involved with key decisions in the past, including in cabinet formation without himself taking a place in it, ensured that one third of the 350 delegates at the 'chintan shivir' (brainstorming session) were from the Youth Congress and the National Students Union of India, the two frontal organisation he heads.

Gang-rape was turning point for us: Delhi Police commissioner | ummid.com

Gang-rape was turning point for us: Delhi Police commissioner | ummid.com
"This incident was the turning point in the history of the (Delhi) police force. This case has given a new direction to the criminal justice system of India and our focus will be women's safety," Kumar said at the Annual Press Conference of Delhi Police.

Pakistan-bashing has become fashionable in India: Envoy | ummid.com

Pakistan-bashing has become fashionable in India: Envoy | ummid.com
"Such heinous acts of course are condemnable, irrespective of where they happen and when... But to say that they were done by Pakistan or the Pakistan army was responsible is something that we cannot agree to," he said.

Dal-bati but no lal maas at all-veg Congress banquet | ummid.com

Dal-bati but no lal maas at all-veg Congress banquet | ummid.com
Instead of the famed mutton dish, the 450-odd guests at the dinner being held on day one of the three-day Congress 'Chintan Shivir' introspection camp, here will be treated to vegetarian delicacies such as gatte ki sabzi, dal-bati, khatta kadhi and desserts like imarti, choorma and Alwar ka mawa.

William Shakespeare goes colourfully 'desi' | ummid.com

William Shakespeare goes colourfully 'desi' | ummid.comTheatre critics said the festival reflected the globalization of a trend that began nearly 300 years ago in India when the British rulers brought Shakespeare's plays to these shores to entertain the "white crew" of the erstwhile East India Company.

Obama should visit India again: US think tank | ummid.com

Obama should visit India again: US think tank | ummid.com
With this in mind, it has proposed the establishment of a detailed "New Framework for US-India Economic Cooperation;" the launching of a US-India Job Creation and Skills Building initiative; the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on defence coproduction; and the pursuit of a six-power regional initiative for Afghanistan.

Cars, bikes too now get on Facebook! | ummid.com

Cars, bikes too now get on Facebook! | ummid.com
Innovative new features like creating a profile of your car or motorcycle, giving it its own special name, it's relationship status and a rather extensive profile citing its oil changing preferences, makes the application fun and engaging.

When freedom fighters made Mahatma Gandhi cry | ummid.com

When freedom fighters made Mahatma Gandhi cry | ummid.com
The president said this while unveiling statues of freedom fighters Ajoy Mukherjee, Satish Chandra Samanta and Sushil Kumar Dhara, who were instrumental in forming a Tamralipta National Government -- a parallel government during the 1942 'Quit India' movement -- here in East Midnapore district.

LoC incidents won't affect peace process: Khurshid | ummid.com

LoC incidents won't affect peace process: Khurshid | ummid.com
"Peace process is not going to be undermined by these incidents. We hope that we will find a resolution to all these matters and we have treated the whole issue with great care and the closest attention possible," Khurshid said.

Kerala targets doubling coir exports in 5 years | ummid.com

Kerala targets doubling coir exports in 5 years | ummid.com
Coir, a natural fibre extracted from the husk of coconut, touches almost every facet of human life - from doormats to rugs, brushes, coir mattresses, tufted carpets, garden articles and wood substitutes to geo-textiles.

Thursday, January 17, 2013

Lightening kills six in UP | ummid.com

Lightening kills six in UP | ummid.com
According to police officials lightening struck late Thursday in Talgaon, Manpur, Ataria and Sakran villages where five people, including two women and a two-year-old child were killed

Lucknow sectarian clashes continue for second day, former BSP MP booked | ummid.com

Lucknow sectarian clashes continue for second day, former BSP MP booked | ummid.com
Home-made bombs were thrown at some houses and several rounds of firing reported from Satkhanda area Thakurganj, Hussainabad and in front of the Unity college. Some shops were also vandalized in Hussainabad.

34 hostages, 15 kidnappers killed in Algeria raid | ummid.com

34 hostages, 15 kidnappers killed in Algeria raid | ummid.com
Mauritania's ANI news agency said a spokesman for the kidnappers said in a statement that two Japanese hostages were seriously injured, without giving further details on the extent of the injuries.

Trinamool's Arabul held for attack on CPI-M's Rezzak | ummid.com

Trinamool's Arabul held for attack on CPI-M's Rezzak | ummid.com
Mollah, a former minister and a senior legislator, was severely beaten up by Trinamool workers led by Islam Jan 6 when he went to Bamanghata area in the district where a Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) office had been damaged.

Trinamool's Arabul held for attack on CPI-M's Rezzak | ummid.com

Trinamool's Arabul held for attack on CPI-M's Rezzak | ummid.com
Mollah, a former minister and a senior legislator, was severely beaten up by Trinamool workers led by Islam Jan 6 when he went to Bamanghata area in the district where a Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) office had been damaged.

Ukraine students design bed-making robot | ummid.com

Ukraine students design bed-making robot | ummid.com
The students are from the Dnepropetrovsk National University in Dnepropetrovsk, Ukraine's fourth largest city with about a million inhabitants.

Chautala's fallout: Haryana teachers' fate uncertain | ummid.com

Chautala's fallout: Haryana teachers' fate uncertain | ummid.com
Chautala and others were convicted for tampering with the selection list of over 3,200 teachers recruited in 1999-2000 when he was chief minister and selecting them on the basis of bribes, nepotism and favouritism.

An Eiffel Tower of roses in Bangalore | ummid.com

An Eiffel Tower of roses in Bangalore | ummid.com
The Eiffel Tower replica, set up at the Glass House in the sprawling Lalbagh gardens in the city centre, will also be decorated with 10,000 orchids, said K.G. Jagadeesha, director of horticulture.

Four arrested for Lucknow violence | ummid.com

Four arrested for Lucknow violence | ummid.com
"We are keeping a watch on the situation and police parties have been formed to nab the others involved in firing at people outside a mosque last night," Deputy Inspector General of Police Navneet Sikera told IANS.

Diesel prices partially deregulated | ummid.com

Diesel prices partially deregulated | ummid.com
He said the revision in diesel prices by the oil marketing companies would not have any significant impact on the government's petroleum subsidy bill. "We are not factoring in small corrections in subsidy bill."

Pakistan's anti-corruption agency refuses to arrest PM | ummid.com

Pakistan's anti-corruption agency refuses to arrest PM | ummid.com
The Supreme Court ordered the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Tuesday to arrest Ashraf and 15 others within 24 hours in a case involving private power stations built to provide electricity to energy-starved Pakistan.

Govt raises LPG subsidy cap from 6 to 9 cylinders | ummid.com

Govt raises LPG subsidy cap from 6 to 9 cylinders | ummid.com
The commission had raised objections when Petroleum Minister M. Veerappa Moily had announced the decision in December last year before the Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh elections.

Govt raises LPG subsidy cap from 6 to 9 cylinders | ummid.com

Govt raises LPG subsidy cap from 6 to 9 cylinders | ummid.com
The commission had raised objections when Petroleum Minister M. Veerappa Moily had announced the decision in December last year before the Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh elections.

Bihar's engineering colleges lack teachers | ummid.com

Bihar's engineering colleges lack teachers | ummid.com
If a school cannot run without teachers, how can an engineering college function with less than one-fourth of the required number of teachers, he wondered. "Most of the engineering colleges in Bihar have ad hoc teachers," he added.

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

India’s Rape Culture: Urban versus Rural | ummid.com

India’s Rape Culture: Urban versus Rural | ummid.com
The statistics from India fly in the face of Bhagawat. In a significant statistical observation and study of rape cases Mrinal Satish, faculty member of National Law University, Delhi, tells us another tale. He has used the court data and observes that 75% of rape cases take place in rural India. His observations are based on the cases reported in Criminal Law Journal from 1983 to 2009.

Shia, Sunni clash in Lucknow leaves one dead, many injured | ummid.com

Shia, Sunni clash in Lucknow leaves one dead, many injured | ummid.com
The violence broke out near Deputy Saheb Ka Imambara in Wazirganj area after a religious congregation at a mosque was attacked, leading to several rounds of firing and stone pelting, a senior district police official told IANS.

Iraq seeks India's agricultural expertise | ummid.com

Iraq seeks India's agricultural expertise | ummid.com

The first batch of over 500 Iraqis will learn how to boost agricultural production and reduce their country's dependence on imports, which account for 90 percent of its food requirement.

Over 80 killed in Aleppo University blasts | ummid.com

Over 80 killed in Aleppo University blasts | ummid.com
Two explosions have struck Aleppo University in northern Syria, killing more than 80 people, official sources and opposition activists said. There were conflicting reports as to what caused the blast yesterday, with the government and opposition blaming each other. The explosions set cars ablaze and blew the walls off dormitory rooms.

Indian, Pakistani forces agree to maintain border peace | ummid.com

Indian, Pakistani forces agree to maintain border peace | ummid.com
The research, which included a poll of women travellers, was carried out by the Check Safety First firm that offers health and safety risk management systems to hotels, the Telegraph reported.

Bathroom the cleanest place to eat in hotels! | ummid.com

Bathroom the cleanest place to eat in hotels! | ummid.com
The research, which included a poll of women travellers, was carried out by the Check Safety First firm that offers health and safety risk management systems to hotels, the Telegraph reported.

India as world super power impossible without Muslims: Jaiswal | ummid.com

India as world super power impossible without Muslims: Jaiswal | ummid.com
Says, it would be a pipe dream if Muslims not brought into the mainstream; every paisa in 12th plan will be monitored, says Fazlur Rahim Mujaddidi
He said that there are ample welfare schemes for the uplift of Muslims by the Union government. However, the benefits do not reach the common man as the regional governments which are the implementing agencies are equally responsible for this, he added.

'Century-old electric car was far ahead of its time' | ummid.com

'Century-old electric car was far ahead of its time' | ummid.com
Looking like a cross between something from the Wacky Races and a golf buggy, the 103-year-old Detroit Electric Model D with a top speed of 40 kmph is tipped to sell for $50,000 at an auction in Britain.

Tripura eyes supplying power to rest of India - via Bangladesh | ummid.com

Tripura eyes supplying power to rest of India - via Bangladesh | ummid.com
The Palatana project is a hallmark of cooperation between India and Bangladesh, which ensured smooth passage of heavy project equipment and turbines to Palatana through its territory by waterways from Haldia port in West Bengal.

Chautala, son convicted in graft case, in custody | ummid.com

Chautala, son convicted in graft case, in custody | ummid.com
Over 3,000 teachers were to be recruited in the state and Chautala had pressurised a senior official, Sanjeev Kumar, to change the list of selected candidates by fudging the marks of certain favourites.

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Suicide bomber kills Iraqi MP, three guards | ummid.com

Suicide bomber kills Iraqi MP, three guards | ummid.com
The attack took place around 2 p.m. in Fallujah, 50 km west of the capital city of Baghdad, police said.

Police probing blast in Ghaziabad mosque | ummid.com

Police probing blast in Ghaziabad mosque | ummid.com
The blast in the mosque in Dasna town occurred at about 10 p.m. Monday and damaged the main entrance gate and the plastering but no one was injured. Immediately after the explosion, senior police and civil officers including the district police chief and the district magistrate visited the spot.

Britain may sue churches for refusing gay marriages | ummid.com

Britain may sue churches for refusing gay marriages | ummid.com
Legal advice sent to David Cameron has warned that churches could be sued under human rights legislation if they refuse to allow the services to proceed, the Telegraph reported.

British Christian wins right to wear cross at work | ummid.com

British Christian wins right to wear cross at work | ummid.com
The court, however, rejected a similar legal challenge from a nurse Shirley Chaplin, ruling that the hospital where she worked should be able to refuse permission to wear a cross on "health and safety" grounds.

Britain's Royal College of Surgeons to partner with Indian hospitals | ummid.com

Britain's Royal College of Surgeons to partner with Indian hospitals | ummid.com
As a result, RCS has "opened up" its examination and the Membership of Royal College of Surgeon (MRCS) course would be made easier with the RCS thinking of waiving a part of the exam for doctors holding a Master of Science (MS) or Diplomate of National Board (DNB) degree.

Personal ethical standards should guide media: Tewari | ummid.com

Personal ethical standards should guide media: Tewari | ummid.com
Addressing the convocation ceremony of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) here, the minister said "the question of ethics is important and defines each of our individual actions".

Sudais assures Mataf expansion won’t affect flow of Zamzam water | ummid.com

Sudais assures Mataf expansion won’t affect flow of Zamzam water | ummid.com
Al-Sudais said during his inspection tour of the project yesterday that the measures taken by the Presidency toward the well of Zamzam coincide with the growing demand for water consumption of Zamzam.

Has Mayawati mellowed at 57? | ummid.com

Has Mayawati mellowed at 57? | ummid.com
Barring a full page advertisement by mafia-don-turned-politician Dhananjay Singh, a legislator from Jaunpur Sadar, the birthday celebrations in Uttar Pradesh were largely muted. Missing was Mayawati, wearing heavy diamond jewellery and cutting a many-decked cake.

No business as usual with Pakistan after soldiers' killing: PM | ummid.com

No business as usual with Pakistan after soldiers' killing: PM | ummid.com
Definite plans to retaliate, says Indian Army; Pakistan in denial mode
"There can be no business as usual after the barbaric act," he said, when journalists asked about the government's move to hold back visa on arrival for senior Pakistani citizens. "Those responsible for the heinous act will be brought to book."

Border tensions see Pakistani hockey players return home | ummid.com

Border tensions see Pakistani hockey players return home | ummid.com
All nine Pakistani players, now here for the Hockey India League (HIL), will be sent home in the wake of the protests against their presence in the inaugural event when tensions are mounting on the Line of Control (LoC).

There is 'no war, no peace' situation on LoC: Indian Army | ummid.com

There is 'no war, no peace' situation on LoC: Indian Army | ummid.com
Stating that his Northern Command had adequate forces on the Line of Control (LoC), General K.T. Parnaik said the army "has a system to graduate from this system (no war, no peace) to a higher form of alert".

Indian farmers better than scientists: Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz | ummid.com

Indian farmers better than scientists: Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz | ummid.com
According to Chanchal Kumar, a senior government official who accompanied Stiglitz, the economist minutely inquired about the techniques. He said that Stiglitz also told farmers that the increasing trend of organic farming is good for the health too.

Indian farmers better than scientists: Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz | ummid.com

Indian farmers better than scientists: Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz | ummid.com
According to Chanchal Kumar, a senior government official who accompanied Stiglitz, the economist minutely inquired about the techniques. He said that Stiglitz also told farmers that the increasing trend of organic farming is good for the health too.

Afghanistan's oldest woman, 136, dies | ummid.com

Afghanistan's oldest woman, 136, dies | ummid.com
Hasno died Saturday in a village of Nangarhar province, 120 km from Kabul. She was probably the oldest woman in the world, an Afghan daily reported.

Chavan visits Dhule, announces judicial enquiry into Dhule riots | ummid.com

Chavan visits Dhule, announces judicial enquiry into Dhule riots | ummid.com
Dhule: More than a week after riot broke out in this North Maharashtra city, state Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan on Tuesday announced a judicial enquiry into the Dhule riot by a retired judge and also said police officers if found guilty would be suspended

Monday, January 14, 2013

Military train derails in Egypt; 15 killed, 103 injured | ummid.com

Military train derails in Egypt; 15 killed, 103 injured | ummid.com
The incident led to the transport minister's resignation. The country witnessed its worst railway accident in 2002 when over 360 people were killed in a train fire, Al Jazeera reported.

Animal sacrifice: Prohibitory orders clamped in Odisha village | ummid.com

Animal sacrifice: Prohibitory orders clamped in Odisha village | ummid.com
The order under section 144 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which prohibits assembly of more than four people in an area, has been clamped in Khairguda village where attempts are being made to sacrifice large number of animals, a senior district police official told IANS.

Britain launches milkshake that helps fight Alzheimer's | ummid.com

Britain launches milkshake that helps fight Alzheimer's | ummid.com
It also contains two other compounds normally present in blood -- uridine, produced by liver and kidneys and found in breast milk, and choline found in meat, nuts and eggs -- along with B vitamins.

7-year-old girl raped in school toilet in Goa | ummid.com

7-year-old girl raped in school toilet in Goa | ummid.com
Later Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar as well as other local politicians have arrived at vasco, 40 km from here, where over 500 concerned and agitating people had still blocked access to the school..

Probe ordered into inflammatory poem in Mumbai police magazine | ummid.com

Probe ordered into inflammatory poem in Mumbai police magazine | ummid.com
In her poem, Patil had castigated the rioters who defaced the Amar Jawan Jyoti Memorial at the memorial, contending that their hands "should have been chopped off".

Hundreds of thousands take part in anti-gay marriage rally in Paris | ummid.com

Hundreds of thousands take part in anti-gay marriage rally in Paris | ummid.com
Various counter-demonstrations were also planned, Le Monde reported. A massive police presence, bolstered by military and security forces, is to be deployed on the streets of the French capital. The marriage proposals would grant same-sex couples the right to adopt children, along with other legal entitlements.

BJP files complaint against Goa activist over vulgar image of 'Christ' | ummid.com

BJP files complaint against Goa activist over vulgar image of 'Christ' | ummid.com
The complaint lodged with Director General of Police Kishen Kumar has sought action against activist Aires Rodrigues for hurting religious sentiments by uploading an image of "Christ" showing the middle finger, Goa BJP's vice-president Wilfred Mesquita told reporters here Monday.

Include Nalanda University in Unesco list: Nitish | ummid.com

Include Nalanda University in Unesco list: Nitish | ummid.com

In 1193, the Nalanda university was ransacked by an army led by Bhaktiyar Khilji, a Turkish general of Qutb-ud-din-Aibak of the Slave Dynasty, the then ruler of northern India.

India lodges strong protest at flag meeting | ummid.com

India lodges strong protest at flag meeting | ummid.com
Asked about Indian Air Force Chief Marshal N.A.K. Browne's remarks that India may have to look for "some other options for compliance" if Pakistan continues to violate the ceasefire, Gen. Singh said that Browne alluded to "diplomatic and economic options". Gen. Singh said the operation would be dealt by the army at a tactical level.

Swami Kamlananda jailed for hate speech | ummid.com

Swami Kamlananda jailed for hate speech | ummid.com
The president of Hindu Devalaya Parirakshana Samithi, a committee fighting for protection of Hindu temples, has been charged with promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, language and doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony.

British men want mini-skirts, low cut tops banned in offices | ummid.com

British men want mini-skirts, low cut tops banned in offices | ummid.com
In a surprise, a majority of women -- 67 percent -- also said their female colleagues should be stopped from wearing tiny shorts, and 52 percent said miniskirts were unprofessional.

Girl gang-raped, thrown out of vehicle in Bengal | ummid.com

Girl gang-raped, thrown out of vehicle in Bengal | ummid.com
"The girl is resident of Tamluk in East Midnapore and is currently admitted at North Bengal Medical College and Hospital (NBMCH), Siliguri. The reports of medical tests to confirm rape is awaited and we are yet to make any arrest," added Pal.

India concerned at South Africa suspending buffalo meat imports | ummid.com

India concerned at South Africa suspending buffalo meat imports | ummid.com
After granting market access to deboned frozen boneless buffalo meat by approving one abattoir-cum-meat processing unit in Maharashtra in January, 2011, South Africa suspended imports in May 2011.

Dilip-Saira return after performing Umrah, want to do Haj together | ummid.com

Dilip-Saira return after performing Umrah, want to do Haj together | ummid.com
One of the finest actors of Hindi filmdom, Dilip Kumar, who turned 90 in Dec 11 last year, "is also very happy after going to Umrah. We are extremely happy now. It's a very peaceful experience in my life," said Saira.

Technology will change the face of education: BITS vice chancellor | ummid.com

Technology will change the face of education: BITS vice chancellor | ummid.com
"People haven't quite understood there is shortage of faculty, and technology can address it," Jain said while talking to IANS after the premier technology institute launched a service to connect all its campuses through video-conferencing.

Army chief against diluting AFSPA | ummid.com

Army chief against diluting AFSPA | ummid.com
Answering a query on AFPSA at his press conference on eve of the Army Day, Bikram Singh said that soliders in the state work in an environment where it was difficult to differentiate between friend and foe as militants mingle with civilian population.

Telangana state will soon be a reality, say ministers | ummid.com

Telangana state will soon be a reality, say ministers | ummid.com
The ministers hoped that the central government would take a decision by month-end to carve out a separate Telangana state. Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde had said after the Dec 28 all-party meet on Telangana that the government would take a decision within a month.

European media: From India shining to India tarnished | ummid.com

European media: From India shining to India tarnished | ummid.com
While the heinous crime of Dec 16 has rocked the nation for its brutality, violence against women is part of daily life in India, according to Swiss daily Tages Anzeiger. The incident has clearly stirred a lot of emotion here as well.

Assam's silk village: Weaving does not pay | ummid.com

Assam's silk village: Weaving does not pay | ummid.com
Situated on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra, Sualkuchi is about 35 km from Guwahati. Das, who owns 10 looms and supplies mekhla chadors to shops in Guwahati, said that the total number of weavers in the village has come down from 25,000 to below 10,000.

Sunday, January 13, 2013

Hyderabad police arrest Swami Kamlananda for hate speech | ummid.com

Hyderabad police arrest Swami Kamlananda for hate speech | ummid.com
Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and other rightwing Hindu groups have condemned Bharati's arrest. They alleged that he was arrested on Sankranti day when he had gone to the pilgrim town of Srisaialam for performing some rituals.

Hundreds of priests in Britain oppose same sex marriage bill | ummid.com

Hundreds of priests in Britain oppose same sex marriage bill | ummid.com
It compared Prime Minister David Cameron's proposed changes to the meaning of marriage to those of Henry VIII, whose efforts to divorce Catherine of Aragon sparked centuries of upheaval between the church and the state.

Israeli troops forcibly evict international activists from West Bank | ummid.com

Israeli troops forcibly evict international activists from West Bank | ummid.com
Al Jazeera's Jane Ferguson, reporting from Jerusalem, said the activists who were detained were driven to Qalandiya checkpoint and then released. "We also heard from medical sources that four people were admitted to hospital in Ramallah with injuries, but none serious.

Teenaged student raped at knife point in Delhi | ummid.com

Teenaged student raped at knife point in Delhi | ummid.com
In her police complaint, the victim said that Aalim, 25, forced himself on her and proceeded to sexually assault her after scaling the wall of her house even as her mother slept in the very next room.

Indian, Pakistani armies to meet Monday over LoC clashes | ummid.com

Indian, Pakistani armies to meet Monday over LoC clashes | ummid.com
India had been seeking a brigadier-level meeting to discuss escalating tensions on the LoC but Pakistan, which had called for a UN probe into the incidents, responded only Sunday.

28 village council chiefs, members resign in Kashmir | ummid.com

28 village council chiefs, members resign in Kashmir | ummid.com
Doctors in Sopore had referred the injured panch to the super specialty Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences Soura (SKIMS) here. Attending doctors say she is still in critical condition.

Palestinian film nominated for Oscar | ummid.com

Palestinian film nominated for Oscar | ummid.com
The title of the documentary refers to the five cameras that were smashed by Israeli soldiers while recording the struggle and steadfastness of the people of Bilin.

Shakespeare, Wordsworth better therapy than self-help books | ummid.com

Shakespeare, Wordsworth better therapy than self-help books | ummid.com
Researchers from the University of Liverpool found the prose of great writers had a beneficial effect on the mind, and provided a boost to morale by catching the reader's attention and triggering moments of self-reflection, the Daily Mail reported.