Mar 31,2011 New Delhi-Libya's Foreign Minister Moussa Koussa has defected to the UK, saying he is no longer willing to represent Libyan leader Col Muammar Gaddafi's regime. Mr. Koussa, who flew to London, spent hours talking to British officials.
A British Foreign Office spokesperson confirmed that he arrived from Tunisia and told the British authorities that he is resigning.His apparent defection comes as rebels in Libya are retreating from former strongholds along the eastern coast as Colonel Gaddafi's forces advance.The rebels have now lost the key oil port of Ras Lanuf and the nearby town of Bin Jawad, and are also in full retreat from Brega. In the west, the rebel-held town of Misrata is still reportedly coming under attack from pro-Gaddafi troops
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Tasmanian Ponting quits skipper ship
Ricky Ponting on Tuesday stepped down as Australia's captain from Test and one day cricket teams in the wake of the team's shocking quarter-final exit from the ongoing World Cup, but will be available for selection as a batsman in both the format. "I've had no tap on the shoulder from anyone. This is a decision wholly and solely from me. I thought the timing was spot on," Ponting said at a press conference in Sydney."All that being said, I've made it very clear to selectors that I'm available (to keep playing Test and one-day cricket for Australia)," he added.Deputy Michael Clarke is expected to replace Ponting as skipper of the Australian Test and one-day teams.The 36-year-old Tasmanian denied that he was forced to take the decision."I'll have the opportunity over the next couple of days to reflect on where things are headed for me and certainly what direction I feel things are heading for the betterment of Australian cricket," Ponting said. "I am very proud of what I've been able to do as a leader of the Australian cricket team and I have never ever taken any opportunity or any day for granted as the captain. "It's a very prestigious job and one that comes with a lot of scrutiny and a lot of pressure but that is all part of being a leader in any walk of life," he said.Every decision I've ever made was always with Cricket Australia's thoughts at the front of my mind - it's always been about putting the team before me," he said.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Libyan rebels win towns
Libyan rebels on Sunday claimed to have recaptured five strategic towns of Ajdabiya, Brega, Ras Lanuf, Uqayla and Bin Jawad as French fighter jets struck hard at Muammar Gaddafi's forces destroying five fighter planes and two helicopters.
68-year-old Gaddafi's opponents had reportedly pressed onto the key town of Brega, 80 km to the west, after reclaiming Ajdabiya, amid indications that the tide may be turning against the embattled leader due to the aerial attacks by US-led coalition forces.Al-Jazeera said that while it appeared that the rebels had taken over the town of Brega, it remained unclear who controlled the nearby oil port.Earlier, rebels celebrated on the streets of Ajdabiya after driving pro-Gaddafi forces out of the town.
Gaddafi's forces controlling the ring road that goes around Ajdabiya have now been cleared from that position, the Arab channel said.But Libyan government officials claimed that the army had been withdrawn to save residents from more bloodshed.
BBC reported that the rebels have seized the eastern coastal town of Brega and Uqayla without a fight.The rebels also took control of Bin Jawad, about 50 km from Ras Lanuf, after coalition air attacks desroyed several tanks, which seen smouldering on the road.The rebels claimed that they had full control of the oil town of Ras Lanuf and were pursuing Gaddafi's forces west.In Misurata, shelling by Gaddafi's forces stopped last evening when western coalition planes appeared in the sky, a rebel was quoted as saying.
According to the French armed forces, around 20 of their aircraft supported by an AWACS surveillance plane struck targets yesterday, including five Galeb fighter jets and two MI-35 helicopters on the ground outside Misurata.Gaddafi's aircraft were caught on the ground at Misurata air base preparing to launch attacks in an area of the rebel-held town.France is one of the coalition countries enforcing a UN no-fly zone aimed at protecting civilians.
British missile strikes also destroyed three armoured vehicles in Misurata and two more in Ajdabiya, the Royal Air Force said in a statement.Libyan state TV said there were more air strikes overnight at Sabha in central Libya, adding that military and civilian areas had been hit, but there was no independent confirmation.
It also spoke of strikes near Gaddafi's power base of Sirte, on the Mediterranean coast east of Tripoli.
Al Jazeera said there were celebrations on the streets after Gaddafi's forces retreated.There were several rounds of firing in the air by jubilant rebels who vowed to bring an early end to the 41-year-old Gaddafi regime.Television footage showed rebels dancing atop wrecked tanks waving flags in Ajdabiya. They praised the coalition forces for backing them.Charred trucks and missile launchers, the targets of the coalition air strikes, could also be seen lying scattered in Ajdabiya.
The Arab channel said many fighters loyal to Gaddafi have been taken hostage by the rebelas. Among them is one of Gaddafi's senior-most officers gen Bilgasim Al-Ganga.
In Washington, US President Barack Obama asserted that the forces loyal to Gaddafi had been pushed back and a "humanitarian catastrophe" averted.In his weekly radio address yesterday, Obama once again ruled out sending any American ground forces to the North African country and sought to project the campaign in Libya as a completely multilateral mission."We're succeeding in our mission. We've taken out Libya's air defences. Gaddafi's forces are no longer advancing across Libya. In places like Benghazi, a city of some 700,000 that Gaddafi threatened to show 'no mercy', his forces have been pushed back," he said on the eighth day of military strikes in Libya.Obama asserted that the intervention had saved many innocent lives.
In an interview to CBS News, US Defence Secretary Robert Gates said Gaddafi's troops were planting bodies "of the people he's killed" at the sites attacked by coalition forces to apparently create an impression about civilian deaths."The truth of the matter is we have trouble coming up with proof of any civilian casualties that we have been responsible for," Gates said, according to excerpts released by CBS News."We do have a lot of intelligence reporting about Gaddafi taking the bodies of the people he's killed and putting them at the sites where we've attacked."
Bolstered by the air strikes from coalition forces, the rebels were now eyeing Al-Bisher, a town another 30 km west along the road to Gaddafi's hometown of Sirte.
Ahmed Al Misrati, a pro-democracy activist, told Al-Jazeera from Misurata that the town was "besieged from all sides" yesterday." (Misurata) has been under heavy gunfire and heavy bombardment ... by tanks or mortar shells," he was quoted as saying. "This bombardment is indiscriminate and arbitrary, sometimes targeting residential plots and one entire family was killed - the father and his children."They (Gaddafi troops) are also stationed in other rooftops, especially the high buildings ... Anybody in the street comes under heavy gunfire and now the situation is exacerbating and is very, very dire," he said.
Fresh coalition air strikes were also reported on the road between Sirte and Ajdabiya, 400km to the east.Moussa Ibrahim, a Libyan government spokesman, claimed that the coalition air strikes late late last night killed soldiers and civilians.
"We are losing many lives, military and civilians. The air strikes (yesterday) continued for hours and hours non-stop. We believe many civilians were killed including some families who are escaping the air strikes in their cars," Ibrahim was quoted as saying.
"The road between Ajdabiya and Sirte includes many towns," he said, calling for an immediate end to the air strikes and emergency meeting of the UN Security Council.
In Benghazi, it said, the rebels now believed that they had government forces "on the back foot".The US and its allies were also reportedly considering arming the Libyan rebels.Libyan officials have claimed that the coalition air strikes that started last week have killed nearly 100 civilians.
Media Agencies
68-year-old Gaddafi's opponents had reportedly pressed onto the key town of Brega, 80 km to the west, after reclaiming Ajdabiya, amid indications that the tide may be turning against the embattled leader due to the aerial attacks by US-led coalition forces.Al-Jazeera said that while it appeared that the rebels had taken over the town of Brega, it remained unclear who controlled the nearby oil port.Earlier, rebels celebrated on the streets of Ajdabiya after driving pro-Gaddafi forces out of the town.
Gaddafi's forces controlling the ring road that goes around Ajdabiya have now been cleared from that position, the Arab channel said.But Libyan government officials claimed that the army had been withdrawn to save residents from more bloodshed.
BBC reported that the rebels have seized the eastern coastal town of Brega and Uqayla without a fight.The rebels also took control of Bin Jawad, about 50 km from Ras Lanuf, after coalition air attacks desroyed several tanks, which seen smouldering on the road.The rebels claimed that they had full control of the oil town of Ras Lanuf and were pursuing Gaddafi's forces west.In Misurata, shelling by Gaddafi's forces stopped last evening when western coalition planes appeared in the sky, a rebel was quoted as saying.
According to the French armed forces, around 20 of their aircraft supported by an AWACS surveillance plane struck targets yesterday, including five Galeb fighter jets and two MI-35 helicopters on the ground outside Misurata.Gaddafi's aircraft were caught on the ground at Misurata air base preparing to launch attacks in an area of the rebel-held town.France is one of the coalition countries enforcing a UN no-fly zone aimed at protecting civilians.
British missile strikes also destroyed three armoured vehicles in Misurata and two more in Ajdabiya, the Royal Air Force said in a statement.Libyan state TV said there were more air strikes overnight at Sabha in central Libya, adding that military and civilian areas had been hit, but there was no independent confirmation.
It also spoke of strikes near Gaddafi's power base of Sirte, on the Mediterranean coast east of Tripoli.
Al Jazeera said there were celebrations on the streets after Gaddafi's forces retreated.There were several rounds of firing in the air by jubilant rebels who vowed to bring an early end to the 41-year-old Gaddafi regime.Television footage showed rebels dancing atop wrecked tanks waving flags in Ajdabiya. They praised the coalition forces for backing them.Charred trucks and missile launchers, the targets of the coalition air strikes, could also be seen lying scattered in Ajdabiya.
The Arab channel said many fighters loyal to Gaddafi have been taken hostage by the rebelas. Among them is one of Gaddafi's senior-most officers gen Bilgasim Al-Ganga.
In Washington, US President Barack Obama asserted that the forces loyal to Gaddafi had been pushed back and a "humanitarian catastrophe" averted.In his weekly radio address yesterday, Obama once again ruled out sending any American ground forces to the North African country and sought to project the campaign in Libya as a completely multilateral mission."We're succeeding in our mission. We've taken out Libya's air defences. Gaddafi's forces are no longer advancing across Libya. In places like Benghazi, a city of some 700,000 that Gaddafi threatened to show 'no mercy', his forces have been pushed back," he said on the eighth day of military strikes in Libya.Obama asserted that the intervention had saved many innocent lives.
In an interview to CBS News, US Defence Secretary Robert Gates said Gaddafi's troops were planting bodies "of the people he's killed" at the sites attacked by coalition forces to apparently create an impression about civilian deaths."The truth of the matter is we have trouble coming up with proof of any civilian casualties that we have been responsible for," Gates said, according to excerpts released by CBS News."We do have a lot of intelligence reporting about Gaddafi taking the bodies of the people he's killed and putting them at the sites where we've attacked."
Bolstered by the air strikes from coalition forces, the rebels were now eyeing Al-Bisher, a town another 30 km west along the road to Gaddafi's hometown of Sirte.
Ahmed Al Misrati, a pro-democracy activist, told Al-Jazeera from Misurata that the town was "besieged from all sides" yesterday." (Misurata) has been under heavy gunfire and heavy bombardment ... by tanks or mortar shells," he was quoted as saying. "This bombardment is indiscriminate and arbitrary, sometimes targeting residential plots and one entire family was killed - the father and his children."They (Gaddafi troops) are also stationed in other rooftops, especially the high buildings ... Anybody in the street comes under heavy gunfire and now the situation is exacerbating and is very, very dire," he said.
Fresh coalition air strikes were also reported on the road between Sirte and Ajdabiya, 400km to the east.Moussa Ibrahim, a Libyan government spokesman, claimed that the coalition air strikes late late last night killed soldiers and civilians.
"We are losing many lives, military and civilians. The air strikes (yesterday) continued for hours and hours non-stop. We believe many civilians were killed including some families who are escaping the air strikes in their cars," Ibrahim was quoted as saying.
"The road between Ajdabiya and Sirte includes many towns," he said, calling for an immediate end to the air strikes and emergency meeting of the UN Security Council.
In Benghazi, it said, the rebels now believed that they had government forces "on the back foot".The US and its allies were also reportedly considering arming the Libyan rebels.Libyan officials have claimed that the coalition air strikes that started last week have killed nearly 100 civilians.
Media Agencies
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Barack Obama touches " Mission in Libya"
Nksagar-Sagar Media Inc:New Delhi India :
A great example is US president Barack Obama who in his message to me and to many more from the white house writes, "I'm writing today with an update on the situation in Libya, including the actions we've taken with allies and partners to protect the Libyan people from the brutality of Moammar Qaddafi. For further details, please take a moment to watch this morning's Weekly Address:
Sending our brave men and women in uniform into harm's way is not a decision I make lightly. But when someone like Qaddafi threatens a bloodbath that could destabilize an entire region, it is in our national interest to act. In fact, it’s our responsibility.Our mission in Libya is clear and focused -- and we are succeeding.
Along with our allies and partners, we are enforcing the mandate of the United Nations Security Council. Working with other countries, we have put in place a no-fly zone and other measures that will help prevent further violence and brutality. Qaddafi's air defenses have been taken out, and his forces are no longer advancing across Libya.As a consequence of our quick action, the lives of countless innocent civilians have been saved, and a humanitarian catastrophe has been avoided.
The role of American forces in this mission is limited. After providing unique capabilities at the beginning, we are now handing over control of the no-fly zone to our NATO allies and partners, including Arab partners like Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.The United States has also joined with the international community to deliver urgent humanitarian assistance. We're offering support to the Libyan opposition and have frozen tens of billions of dollars of Qaddafi's assets.
Our message to Qaddafi is clear: attacks against innocent civilians must end, his forces must be pulled back, humanitarian aid must reach Libyans in need, and those responsible for the violence in Libya must be held accountable.The progress we've made over the past seven days demonstrates how the international community should work, with many nations, not just the United States, bearing the responsibility and cost of upholding international law.Every American can be proud of the service of our men and women in uniform who have once again stood up for our interests and ideals.And as we move forward, I will continue to keep each of you fully informed on our progress."
Sincerely,
Barack Obama
President of the United States
Note:Great Leadership is not by doing great deeds only but communicating and explains the point of view to get to their point of view is certainly creates better intellect and wisdom prevails for the betterment of humanity and prosperity and peace prevails:
A great example is US president Barack Obama who in his message to me and to many more from the white house writes, "I'm writing today with an update on the situation in Libya, including the actions we've taken with allies and partners to protect the Libyan people from the brutality of Moammar Qaddafi. For further details, please take a moment to watch this morning's Weekly Address:
Sending our brave men and women in uniform into harm's way is not a decision I make lightly. But when someone like Qaddafi threatens a bloodbath that could destabilize an entire region, it is in our national interest to act. In fact, it’s our responsibility.Our mission in Libya is clear and focused -- and we are succeeding.
Along with our allies and partners, we are enforcing the mandate of the United Nations Security Council. Working with other countries, we have put in place a no-fly zone and other measures that will help prevent further violence and brutality. Qaddafi's air defenses have been taken out, and his forces are no longer advancing across Libya.As a consequence of our quick action, the lives of countless innocent civilians have been saved, and a humanitarian catastrophe has been avoided.
The role of American forces in this mission is limited. After providing unique capabilities at the beginning, we are now handing over control of the no-fly zone to our NATO allies and partners, including Arab partners like Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.The United States has also joined with the international community to deliver urgent humanitarian assistance. We're offering support to the Libyan opposition and have frozen tens of billions of dollars of Qaddafi's assets.
Our message to Qaddafi is clear: attacks against innocent civilians must end, his forces must be pulled back, humanitarian aid must reach Libyans in need, and those responsible for the violence in Libya must be held accountable.The progress we've made over the past seven days demonstrates how the international community should work, with many nations, not just the United States, bearing the responsibility and cost of upholding international law.Every American can be proud of the service of our men and women in uniform who have once again stood up for our interests and ideals.And as we move forward, I will continue to keep each of you fully informed on our progress."
Sincerely,
Barack Obama
President of the United States
Note:Great Leadership is not by doing great deeds only but communicating and explains the point of view to get to their point of view is certainly creates better intellect and wisdom prevails for the betterment of humanity and prosperity and peace prevails:
Friday, March 25, 2011
Japan's in dire Nuclear crisis
Japan's nuclear crisis deepened further today, with authorities saying that a reactor vessel at the crippled Fukushima atomic plant may have damaged as some workers were exposed to radiation levels 10,000 times higher than normal. This has prompted Premier Naoto Kan to term the situation as very grave.The radiation leak detected yesterday at the No.3 reactor indicated possible damage to the unit's vessel, pipes or valves. This was disclosed by Japan's Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency, two weeks after the magnitude 9 quake and tsunami rocked the country's northeast leaving over 27,000 people dead or unaccounted for.
Kyodo news agency quoting authorities reported, three workers at the No.3 reactor's turbine building, who received burn injuries yesterday, were exposed to the water containing radioactive materials 10,000 times the normal level.
Following the incident, the nuclear agency ordered the Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), the operator the nuclear plant, to improve radiation management at the crisis-hit facility.TEPCO has already begun removing the highly radioactive water from the site. In a televised news conference, Premier Kan warned that the situation at the nuclear plant remained very grave and serious and still unpredictable.
Kyodo news agency quoting authorities reported, three workers at the No.3 reactor's turbine building, who received burn injuries yesterday, were exposed to the water containing radioactive materials 10,000 times the normal level.
Following the incident, the nuclear agency ordered the Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), the operator the nuclear plant, to improve radiation management at the crisis-hit facility.TEPCO has already begun removing the highly radioactive water from the site. In a televised news conference, Premier Kan warned that the situation at the nuclear plant remained very grave and serious and still unpredictable.
PAC's powers go beyond CAG report: Joshi
PAC's powers go beyond CAG report: Joshi
Parliament's Public Accounts Committee chairperson M M Joshi has indicated that overlapping of functions of the panel and the JPC into 2G spectrum scam was not a matter of concern and his powers went beyond the CAG report.In an interaction with the media in New Delhi on Thursday, Joshi said the Public Accounts Committee has a "constitutional mandate" and its functions extend to areas other than CAG reports.
Reading out the Terms of Reference of the PAC, he said, the committee has to satisfy that the "moneys shown in the accounts as having been disbursed were legally available for, and applicable to, the service or purpose to which they been applied or charged." He said the PAC will also check if the "expenditure conforms to the authority which governs it".
Though Joshi avoided a direct reply to queries on whether he felt JPC has more and wide-ranging powers, he gave broad indications that PAC would continue its probe into the 2G Spectrum allocation despite the formation of the joint panel under P C Chacko.
"There can not just be overlapping but several overlaps (on the 2-G spectrum scam). There can be overlapping with JPC. There can be overlapping with the Supreme Court. There can be overlapping with the CBI probe," Joshi said, in reply to a question on whether overlapping between JPC and PAC would lead to problems.
This appeared to be a mild rebuff to JPC chairperson P C Chacko who had earlier said that PAC should not launch a parallel probe on the 2-G spectrum issue and confine itself to the CAG report."I (PAC) am a perpetual body. PAC will be there whether JPC is there or not," Joshi said, adding that the PAC has been investigating the matter even before formation of the JPC. The BJP leader maintained that before him the 2-G spectrum issue was being looked into by the PAC even under the chairpersonship of his predecessors Jaswant Singh and Gopinath Munde.
"We are doing our duty. We are doing our constitutional as well as our moral duty," he said.Asked if Chacko had written a letter suggesting that the PAC confine itself to the CAG report, Joshi replied in the negative.
"He may have written a letter but I have not received any," Joshi said, adding that if he gets a letter from Chacko he would look into it.Asked if Chacko had met him, Joshi said he has been meeting him in Parliament. He did not rule out that the issue may have come up during their casual meetings.Joshi was evasive on whether and when some prominent journalists who figure in the Niira Radia tapes would be called by the PAC."It is for the committee to decide," he said.Joshi said most of the PAC members had expressed happiness with the presentation made by The Pioneer correspondent Gopi Krishnan, Outlook editor Vinod Mehta and Open editor Manu Joseph.
Parliament's Public Accounts Committee chairperson M M Joshi has indicated that overlapping of functions of the panel and the JPC into 2G spectrum scam was not a matter of concern and his powers went beyond the CAG report.In an interaction with the media in New Delhi on Thursday, Joshi said the Public Accounts Committee has a "constitutional mandate" and its functions extend to areas other than CAG reports.
Reading out the Terms of Reference of the PAC, he said, the committee has to satisfy that the "moneys shown in the accounts as having been disbursed were legally available for, and applicable to, the service or purpose to which they been applied or charged." He said the PAC will also check if the "expenditure conforms to the authority which governs it".
Though Joshi avoided a direct reply to queries on whether he felt JPC has more and wide-ranging powers, he gave broad indications that PAC would continue its probe into the 2G Spectrum allocation despite the formation of the joint panel under P C Chacko.
"There can not just be overlapping but several overlaps (on the 2-G spectrum scam). There can be overlapping with JPC. There can be overlapping with the Supreme Court. There can be overlapping with the CBI probe," Joshi said, in reply to a question on whether overlapping between JPC and PAC would lead to problems.
This appeared to be a mild rebuff to JPC chairperson P C Chacko who had earlier said that PAC should not launch a parallel probe on the 2-G spectrum issue and confine itself to the CAG report."I (PAC) am a perpetual body. PAC will be there whether JPC is there or not," Joshi said, adding that the PAC has been investigating the matter even before formation of the JPC. The BJP leader maintained that before him the 2-G spectrum issue was being looked into by the PAC even under the chairpersonship of his predecessors Jaswant Singh and Gopinath Munde.
"We are doing our duty. We are doing our constitutional as well as our moral duty," he said.Asked if Chacko had written a letter suggesting that the PAC confine itself to the CAG report, Joshi replied in the negative.
"He may have written a letter but I have not received any," Joshi said, adding that if he gets a letter from Chacko he would look into it.Asked if Chacko had met him, Joshi said he has been meeting him in Parliament. He did not rule out that the issue may have come up during their casual meetings.Joshi was evasive on whether and when some prominent journalists who figure in the Niira Radia tapes would be called by the PAC."It is for the committee to decide," he said.Joshi said most of the PAC members had expressed happiness with the presentation made by The Pioneer correspondent Gopi Krishnan, Outlook editor Vinod Mehta and Open editor Manu Joseph.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
DDA demolishing JJ Gayatri Colony in New Delhi
2011-03-23 15:27:20 - 23 Mar 2011Nksagar-Sagar Media Inc: New Delhi
Today at 9.30 am 300 police personnel along with 40 to 50 MCD officers pounced on about 2000 jughhis of poor people living in Gayatri Colony near Patel Nagar New Delhi area are being demolished since today morning. No notice was served and these people have been living here for almost twenty years:
The population in this area is around 25,000 and most of them are women and children and they belong to marginalized section of the society. The sudden demolition of houses without any prior notice has put the people specially women and children out of which many are pregnant and lactating in a insecure situation whereby their health and life is at grave risk. Some children are also having their annual exams going on in the midst of this.
Before the the demolition began, not a single notice was served these people who have been living in the area for almost twenty years.
There is also no talk of providing alternative accommodation to them, as mentioned in the Master plan of Delhi. So far, 5 bulldozers have been deployed for the demolition, and 700 houses demolished. Hundreds of people have been arrested, and many are severely injured due to the police's beatings.
The population of the colony comprises a large number of women and children who are among the most marginalized sections of society. The sudden demolition of houses without any prior notice has put the slum residents, over 500 of whom are pregnant women, in an insecure situation whereby their health and lives are at grave risk. Some children are taking their annual examination.
Contact Information:
Sagar Media Inc
Today at 9.30 am 300 police personnel along with 40 to 50 MCD officers pounced on about 2000 jughhis of poor people living in Gayatri Colony near Patel Nagar New Delhi area are being demolished since today morning. No notice was served and these people have been living here for almost twenty years:
The population in this area is around 25,000 and most of them are women and children and they belong to marginalized section of the society. The sudden demolition of houses without any prior notice has put the people specially women and children out of which many are pregnant and lactating in a insecure situation whereby their health and life is at grave risk. Some children are also having their annual exams going on in the midst of this.
Before the the demolition began, not a single notice was served these people who have been living in the area for almost twenty years.
There is also no talk of providing alternative accommodation to them, as mentioned in the Master plan of Delhi. So far, 5 bulldozers have been deployed for the demolition, and 700 houses demolished. Hundreds of people have been arrested, and many are severely injured due to the police's beatings.
The population of the colony comprises a large number of women and children who are among the most marginalized sections of society. The sudden demolition of houses without any prior notice has put the slum residents, over 500 of whom are pregnant women, in an insecure situation whereby their health and lives are at grave risk. Some children are taking their annual examination.
Contact Information:
Sagar Media Inc
Air strikes by Western forces in Libya continue
The missile and air strikes by Western forces in Libya continued for the third day. They pounded several Libyan military targets across Tripoli. The allied firepower also targeted Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi's stronghold of Zuwarah, Sirte, Sebha as well as embattled city of Ajdabia. Commander of US Naval Forces (Europe and Africa) Admiral Samuel J Locklear III said Libyan air force's capabilities have been significantly degraded as a result of the air strikes. He claimed that the coalition forces have virtually frozen Gaddafi's advance in the key rebel city of Benghazi.
Meanwhile, international criticism of the Coalition air-strikes in Libya is growing. India, Russia and China have demanded an immediate end to the strikes. Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee told Lok Sabha yesterday that no external power should interfere in the internal affairs of any other country. Earlier, Political parties cutting across party lines urged the Lower House of Parliament to adopt a unanimous resolution deploring what they called brutal attacks on Libya. Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin that international forces' air strikes have resulted in civilian deaths. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu said yesterday that the government opposes the wanton use of armed force leading to more civilian casualties and more humanitarian disasters.
In the meantime, fighting continued between Gaddafi's forces and the rebels. Al Jazeera channel said, the government troops pounded rebel-held towns of Misurata and Ajdabia. Four children were killed while trying to flee their home in Misurata. Fighting also broke out between Libyan loyalists and the rebels in the town of Yafran killing at least nine people.Colonel Gaddafi appeared at a site in Tripoli that was recently attacked by a US-led coalition and told his followers that he will finally emerge victorious. He said at the Bab al-Aziziya compound, hit by air strikes on Sunday, that all Islamic armies should join him.
Meanwhile, international criticism of the Coalition air-strikes in Libya is growing. India, Russia and China have demanded an immediate end to the strikes. Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee told Lok Sabha yesterday that no external power should interfere in the internal affairs of any other country. Earlier, Political parties cutting across party lines urged the Lower House of Parliament to adopt a unanimous resolution deploring what they called brutal attacks on Libya. Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin that international forces' air strikes have resulted in civilian deaths. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu said yesterday that the government opposes the wanton use of armed force leading to more civilian casualties and more humanitarian disasters.
In the meantime, fighting continued between Gaddafi's forces and the rebels. Al Jazeera channel said, the government troops pounded rebel-held towns of Misurata and Ajdabia. Four children were killed while trying to flee their home in Misurata. Fighting also broke out between Libyan loyalists and the rebels in the town of Yafran killing at least nine people.Colonel Gaddafi appeared at a site in Tripoli that was recently attacked by a US-led coalition and told his followers that he will finally emerge victorious. He said at the Bab al-Aziziya compound, hit by air strikes on Sunday, that all Islamic armies should join him.
Monday, March 21, 2011
India defeated West Indies by 80 runs
Yuvraj Singh maiden World Cup century and took two wickets as India crushed West Indies by 80 runs in their last Group B league match of the ICC World Cup, at the MA Chidambaram stadium, in Chennai, on Sunday.With this win India now face quarter-final clash against defending champions Australia on Thursday in Ahmadabad:
India: 268 all out in 49.1 overs (Yuvraj Singh 113, Virat Kohli 59; Ravi Rampaul 5/51, Andre Russell 2/46).West Indies: 188 all out in 43 overs.India finished second in group B with nine points, one less than top finisher South Africa.
India suffered yet another late batting collapse to be all out for 268 in 49.1 overs after Yuvraj Singh's brilliant knock of 113. West Indies fast bowler Ravi Rampaul took five for 51 to start the slide as India lost seven wickets for 50 runs in 7.4 overs.India skittled out the Caribbean side for 188 with seven overs to spare as the spinners did an outstanding job.
India: 268 all out in 49.1 overs (Yuvraj Singh 113, Virat Kohli 59; Ravi Rampaul 5/51, Andre Russell 2/46).West Indies: 188 all out in 43 overs.India finished second in group B with nine points, one less than top finisher South Africa.
India suffered yet another late batting collapse to be all out for 268 in 49.1 overs after Yuvraj Singh's brilliant knock of 113. West Indies fast bowler Ravi Rampaul took five for 51 to start the slide as India lost seven wickets for 50 runs in 7.4 overs.India skittled out the Caribbean side for 188 with seven overs to spare as the spinners did an outstanding job.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Libyan announces cease-fire
Recent Tweets SoraidaSalwala Soraida Salwala RT @Libyan_American:What is the @UN doing?!!!! God help us #Libya #Feb17 #Genocide #Benghazi being bombed right NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
juanchoyos Juan camilo Hoyos Tweets -RT @Tripolitanian: Libya free radio reports bombing of Benghazi right now! | Where is the world:
Rebel fighters have been forced to retreat all the way to the stronghold of Benghazi after being hit with missiles:Deputy Foreign Minister says ceasefire in effect and calls for international observers to be sent to verify it:Muammar Gaddafi Friday announced a ceasefire and halted all military operations, hours after the UN authorised a no-fly zone over Libya and US and allies readied plans for a military action which France said could come "within hours"."We have declared a ceasefire. We have halted all military operations to protect civilians in accordance with the UN Security Council resolution," Libyan Foreign Minister Moussa Koussa said in a live broadcast over state-run television.Koussa said the ceasefire "will take the country back to safety" and ensure security for all Libyans.But he also criticised the authorisation of international military action, calling it a violation of Libya's sovereignty.He implored all governments and NGOs to send fact finding missions to Libya to come to the right decision and ascertain facts on the ground.His unannounced broadcast came as Gaddafi's forces were still reported to be 120 kms away from the rebel stronghold of Benghazi and his men were locked in pitched battles with rebels at the key town of Ajdaibya in the east and Zintan, Nalut and Misurata in western Libya.
Military action by the US and its European allies against Libya would come "within hours" and the effort to put the brakes on Gaddafi's offensive into the east could involve some key Arab nations.Obama Administration has readied plans to enforce the no-fly zone and allied warplanes could be over Libya by Sunday or Monday, CNN reported quoting top Pentagon officials.But a French Government Spokesman Francois Baroin was quoted by BBC as saying that the strikes could come "rapidly... within a few hours", and that Paris would participate in the action.
Al Jazeera said that Gaddafi's forces had encircled Ajdaibya, occupying its eastern, western and southern outskirts and tanks and artillery were pounding Misurata. Some of his forces had bypassed Ajdaibya, to head towards Benghazi.
But, Gaddafi's air force as well as helicopter gunships were not in action as the Arab channel said Libyan strongman had paused his generals in an apparent bid to marshal his forces to contend with expected Western air strikes.Al Jazeera said rebel forces were not contactable immediately to know whether the ceasefire had taken force on the battle lines.
Gaddafi's cave-in came as British Prime Minister David Cameron and the French government spokesman said the allied air strikes could come "rapidly... within a few hours".Cameron announced in the House of Commons that Royal Air Force will send its latest typhoon fighters along with the older tornadoes "in the coming hours" to enforce a no-fly zone.He told lawmakers that Britain will join the UN authorised operations to stop Gaddafi from launching "a brutal attack using air, land and sea forces" on the people of Benghazi.
After the UN Security Council approved the resolution, US President Barack Obama telephoned the leaders of France and UK, the White House said, in an apparent bid to give final shape to the action blueprint.Media, quoting top Pentagon officials, reported that Obama Administration has readied plans to enforce the no-fly zone and allied warplanes could be over Libya by Sunday or Monday.Other major EU nations including, UK, Denmark and Norway have said that they were ready to send fighter units to ground the Libyan airforce.As the news of rapid deployment by the allies came in, Al Jazeera said Muammar Gaddafi's forces had launched an all out attack to capture the city of Misurata.The Arab channel said that Libyan Army artillery guns and tanks were shelling the rebel bastion of Misurata, east of Tripoli after a nightlong intense fighting with the rebels for the control of the town.
Though the rebels claimed they were holding on to the town, Al Jazeera quoted Libyan State Television as claiming that Gaddafi loyalists had overrun Misurata which is 210 kilometre from the Libyan capital.Prior to the enforcement of the no-fly zone, NATO has launched a 24 hour air surveillance of Libya by Sentry AWACS.
US has also already positioned warships off the Libyan coast and in UK British Forces were on standby for air strikes and could be mobilised by Sunday.
A huge crowd had assembled in Benghazi to watch the crucial UN vote on outdoor TV projection and burst into celebrations once the approval of the no-fly zone was announced.ABC said that US was keen to involve Arab nations in the enforcement of the no-fly zone and quoted officials as saying that Jordan, Qatar and the UAE were among possible participants.France is also keen to play the Arab card and Oman and the UAE as well as Canada, Norway have offered to send fighters.
China, Germany, Australia and Russia have said they will not take part in imposing the no-fly zone.Elaborating on what could be Western response to the Libyan crisis, BBC said that to start with allied forces would jam all Libyan communications and go in for hi-tech satellite imagery of Gaddafi's arms stockpiles.
juanchoyos Juan camilo Hoyos Tweets -RT @Tripolitanian: Libya free radio reports bombing of Benghazi right now! | Where is the world:
Rebel fighters have been forced to retreat all the way to the stronghold of Benghazi after being hit with missiles:Deputy Foreign Minister says ceasefire in effect and calls for international observers to be sent to verify it:Muammar Gaddafi Friday announced a ceasefire and halted all military operations, hours after the UN authorised a no-fly zone over Libya and US and allies readied plans for a military action which France said could come "within hours"."We have declared a ceasefire. We have halted all military operations to protect civilians in accordance with the UN Security Council resolution," Libyan Foreign Minister Moussa Koussa said in a live broadcast over state-run television.Koussa said the ceasefire "will take the country back to safety" and ensure security for all Libyans.But he also criticised the authorisation of international military action, calling it a violation of Libya's sovereignty.He implored all governments and NGOs to send fact finding missions to Libya to come to the right decision and ascertain facts on the ground.His unannounced broadcast came as Gaddafi's forces were still reported to be 120 kms away from the rebel stronghold of Benghazi and his men were locked in pitched battles with rebels at the key town of Ajdaibya in the east and Zintan, Nalut and Misurata in western Libya.
Military action by the US and its European allies against Libya would come "within hours" and the effort to put the brakes on Gaddafi's offensive into the east could involve some key Arab nations.Obama Administration has readied plans to enforce the no-fly zone and allied warplanes could be over Libya by Sunday or Monday, CNN reported quoting top Pentagon officials.But a French Government Spokesman Francois Baroin was quoted by BBC as saying that the strikes could come "rapidly... within a few hours", and that Paris would participate in the action.
Al Jazeera said that Gaddafi's forces had encircled Ajdaibya, occupying its eastern, western and southern outskirts and tanks and artillery were pounding Misurata. Some of his forces had bypassed Ajdaibya, to head towards Benghazi.
But, Gaddafi's air force as well as helicopter gunships were not in action as the Arab channel said Libyan strongman had paused his generals in an apparent bid to marshal his forces to contend with expected Western air strikes.Al Jazeera said rebel forces were not contactable immediately to know whether the ceasefire had taken force on the battle lines.
Gaddafi's cave-in came as British Prime Minister David Cameron and the French government spokesman said the allied air strikes could come "rapidly... within a few hours".Cameron announced in the House of Commons that Royal Air Force will send its latest typhoon fighters along with the older tornadoes "in the coming hours" to enforce a no-fly zone.He told lawmakers that Britain will join the UN authorised operations to stop Gaddafi from launching "a brutal attack using air, land and sea forces" on the people of Benghazi.
After the UN Security Council approved the resolution, US President Barack Obama telephoned the leaders of France and UK, the White House said, in an apparent bid to give final shape to the action blueprint.Media, quoting top Pentagon officials, reported that Obama Administration has readied plans to enforce the no-fly zone and allied warplanes could be over Libya by Sunday or Monday.Other major EU nations including, UK, Denmark and Norway have said that they were ready to send fighter units to ground the Libyan airforce.As the news of rapid deployment by the allies came in, Al Jazeera said Muammar Gaddafi's forces had launched an all out attack to capture the city of Misurata.The Arab channel said that Libyan Army artillery guns and tanks were shelling the rebel bastion of Misurata, east of Tripoli after a nightlong intense fighting with the rebels for the control of the town.
Though the rebels claimed they were holding on to the town, Al Jazeera quoted Libyan State Television as claiming that Gaddafi loyalists had overrun Misurata which is 210 kilometre from the Libyan capital.Prior to the enforcement of the no-fly zone, NATO has launched a 24 hour air surveillance of Libya by Sentry AWACS.
US has also already positioned warships off the Libyan coast and in UK British Forces were on standby for air strikes and could be mobilised by Sunday.
A huge crowd had assembled in Benghazi to watch the crucial UN vote on outdoor TV projection and burst into celebrations once the approval of the no-fly zone was announced.ABC said that US was keen to involve Arab nations in the enforcement of the no-fly zone and quoted officials as saying that Jordan, Qatar and the UAE were among possible participants.France is also keen to play the Arab card and Oman and the UAE as well as Canada, Norway have offered to send fighters.
China, Germany, Australia and Russia have said they will not take part in imposing the no-fly zone.Elaborating on what could be Western response to the Libyan crisis, BBC said that to start with allied forces would jam all Libyan communications and go in for hi-tech satellite imagery of Gaddafi's arms stockpiles.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Japan all out to cool Fukushima plants
2011-03-18 05:12:42 - Nksagar-Sagar Media Inc:Japan to take all out efforts to cool Fukushima plants: Japan to cool Fukushima plants today making its all efforts desperately to douse overheating spent fuel rods at its quake crippled reactors in the Fukushima plant,dumping tonnes of water using helicopters and water cannon trucks amid growing concerns of a nuclear disaster.
NHK reports in its Online News today said Tokyo Electric Power Company hopes to activate the cooling system of the No.2 reactor at its Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant as early as Friday night after restoring power to the system.3 reactors at the plant lost cooling capabilities due to a power outage and the failure of emergency power generators after
last week's earthquake and tsunami.The company laid a new power line to the plant on Thursday, but has yet to connect it to the No.2 reactor due to efforts to douse it with water. The utility plans to link the cable to the reactor on Friday.
The firm says the reactor seems to have suffered less damage to its electrical equipment than the other reactors at the plant.However, the company says connecting the cables could be hampered by the radiation threat to workers who will have to approach the reactor.Tokyo Electric says that if it can send electricity to the cooling systems of the 3 reactors, it will be able to resolve the problems at each of the reactors. The utility says it wants to restore power to the reactors as soon as possible.
US nuclear expert warned that a "potentially catastrophic situation" could be round the corner."There is no water in the spent fuel pool and we believe that radiation levels are extremely high, which could possibly impact the ability to take corrective measures," the chief of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Gregory Jaczko said as the ominous nuclear cloud spread alarm in the US and other countries.Two CH-47 helicopters of the Self-Defense Force (SDF) scooped up sea water and released it over the reactors after another chopper checked radiation levels in the air, a week after the magnitude-9.About 5,000 Indians,of a 25,000 total strong community based in Japan,have already left that country in the aftermath of tsunami caused by a massive earthquake last week.
NHK reports in its Online News today said Tokyo Electric Power Company hopes to activate the cooling system of the No.2 reactor at its Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant as early as Friday night after restoring power to the system.3 reactors at the plant lost cooling capabilities due to a power outage and the failure of emergency power generators after
last week's earthquake and tsunami.The company laid a new power line to the plant on Thursday, but has yet to connect it to the No.2 reactor due to efforts to douse it with water. The utility plans to link the cable to the reactor on Friday.
The firm says the reactor seems to have suffered less damage to its electrical equipment than the other reactors at the plant.However, the company says connecting the cables could be hampered by the radiation threat to workers who will have to approach the reactor.Tokyo Electric says that if it can send electricity to the cooling systems of the 3 reactors, it will be able to resolve the problems at each of the reactors. The utility says it wants to restore power to the reactors as soon as possible.
US nuclear expert warned that a "potentially catastrophic situation" could be round the corner."There is no water in the spent fuel pool and we believe that radiation levels are extremely high, which could possibly impact the ability to take corrective measures," the chief of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Gregory Jaczko said as the ominous nuclear cloud spread alarm in the US and other countries.Two CH-47 helicopters of the Self-Defense Force (SDF) scooped up sea water and released it over the reactors after another chopper checked radiation levels in the air, a week after the magnitude-9.About 5,000 Indians,of a 25,000 total strong community based in Japan,have already left that country in the aftermath of tsunami caused by a massive earthquake last week.
Fierce battle in Libya
Rebels raged on Thursday in key towns of Misurata and Ajdabiya, the gateway to the opposition headquarters of Benghazi in Libya's east, with the strongman promising a "decisive battle" amid mounting global pressure for a UN-sponsored no-fly zone.
Facing an unprecedented uprising against his 41-year-old rule, Muammar Gaddafi unleashed his forces to wrest back territories seized by the rebels.Government troops intensified their offensive against rebels in Ajdabiya, the fall of which will clear the way for a possible attack on the opposition capital of Benghazi, amid reports that the town was heavily shelled by Gaddafi's forces.
Rebels and government troops were also engaged in a fierce battle in another key city of Misurata, 150 km from the capital Tripoli."The battle continues at Misurata ..., that will be the decisive battle," 68-year-old Gaddafi told a group of young people from Misurata."You are going to be called to take up arms and ... you will take part in the battle," he was quoted as saying by Al-Jazeera.
Gaddafi urged the gathering "not to leave Misurata hostage in the hands of a handful of madmen".His remarks came as the Libyan state television said the army would soon move against the rebel-stronghold of Benghazi.As the defiant leader's well-trained and heavily-armed forces registered major successes in recent days, a rebel spokesman in Misurata claimed yesterday that they had beaten back an attack by Libyan forces on the city, killing 80 of Gaddafi's men.
At the UN headquarters in New York, Ibrahim Dabbashi, Libya's deputy envoy to the UN who had turned against Gaddafi, called on the Security Council to pass fast a resolution imposing a no-fly zone over the North African country.As the 15-member body debated the draft resolution to impose a no-fly zone over Libya, Dabbashi asked the world community to act quickly and warned of "genocide" in the eastern city of Ajdaibya and "ethnic cleaning" in villages in the western part of the country."We think that in the coming hours we will see real genocide in Ajdabiya," he said."The international community has to act within the next ten hours."
Dabbashi also expressed confidence that the present draft resolution would be modified to include "air strikes."
The text of the draft resolution, co-authored by Britain and France, was circulated by Lebanon, a non-permanent member of the Council, on Tuesday.Separately, the UN Security Council rejected a Russian proposal to pass a smaller resolution calling for a ceasefire in Libya."We did come up with the idea of doing a brief but punchy ceasefire resolution," Russian envoy to the UN Vitaly Churkin said."I even offered to include some specific strong language directing the call for a ceasefire particularly to the Libyan authorities," he said, adding that the proposal was not meant to replace the no-fly zone resolution.In Washington, White House Press Secretary Jay Carney expressed hope that the US-led international community would move quickly on Libya."We are very heartened by the strong statement from the Arab League (which is supporting a no-fly zone over Libya)," he said.
"We think it is vital for these kinds of actions to be international in nature, and in this region it is vital for the support of nations in region in order to make it clear that this is not the West or the US dictating an outcome in a country like Libya, but it is the international community that is making demands and taking action very much in concert with other Arab nations," Carney said.
Martin Nesirky, a spokesman of UN chief Ban Ki-moon, said the Secretary General was "gravely concerned" about signs that Gaddafi was preparing to attack Benghazi.
"A campaign to bombard such an urban centre would massively place civilian lives at risk," he was quoted as saying."The Secretary General is urging all parties in this conflict to accept an immediate ceasefire and to abide by the Security Council resolution (passed last month imposing sanctions on the Libyan regime)."
Britain, France and Lebanon, on behalf of the Arab League, have been trying to overcome resistance at the UN Security Council to a no-fly zone.Meanwhile, the New York Times said four of its reporters covering the clashes between forces loyal to Gaddafi and rebels have gone missing."We have talked with officials of the Libyan government in Tripoli, and they tell us they are attempting to ascertain the whereabouts of our journalists," said Bill Keller, Executive Editor of the paper.According to UN estimates, more than 1,000 people have been killed in Libya in the uprising against Gaddafi which began on 14th February.Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi early Friday discussed Italy's response after a UN resolution cleared air strikes to halt Libyan strongman Moamer Kadhafi's onslaught on rebels.Berlsuconi met with Defence Minister Ignazio La Russa, President Giorgio Napolitano, undersecretary of state Gianni Letta and top military officials to discuss the UN decision to impose a no-fly zone , ANSA news agency said."Let's hope Italy keeps out of this initiative," Libyan Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled Kaaim told ANSA in Tripoli, referring to the possibility that Italy will allow its territory to be used for bombing raids on Libya."We are certain Italy has Libya's integrity and the protection of the population at heart. Let's hope that it doesn't consent to the use of its bases," he added.Massimo Panizzi, a NATO advisor, told reporters in Brussels that the alliance would examine the UN resolution in detail before taking any action."The UN Security Council's resolution will be examined carefully. NATO will act on a clear mandate and with regional support," Panizzi told SKY Italy.
Media agencies
Facing an unprecedented uprising against his 41-year-old rule, Muammar Gaddafi unleashed his forces to wrest back territories seized by the rebels.Government troops intensified their offensive against rebels in Ajdabiya, the fall of which will clear the way for a possible attack on the opposition capital of Benghazi, amid reports that the town was heavily shelled by Gaddafi's forces.
Rebels and government troops were also engaged in a fierce battle in another key city of Misurata, 150 km from the capital Tripoli."The battle continues at Misurata ..., that will be the decisive battle," 68-year-old Gaddafi told a group of young people from Misurata."You are going to be called to take up arms and ... you will take part in the battle," he was quoted as saying by Al-Jazeera.
Gaddafi urged the gathering "not to leave Misurata hostage in the hands of a handful of madmen".His remarks came as the Libyan state television said the army would soon move against the rebel-stronghold of Benghazi.As the defiant leader's well-trained and heavily-armed forces registered major successes in recent days, a rebel spokesman in Misurata claimed yesterday that they had beaten back an attack by Libyan forces on the city, killing 80 of Gaddafi's men.
At the UN headquarters in New York, Ibrahim Dabbashi, Libya's deputy envoy to the UN who had turned against Gaddafi, called on the Security Council to pass fast a resolution imposing a no-fly zone over the North African country.As the 15-member body debated the draft resolution to impose a no-fly zone over Libya, Dabbashi asked the world community to act quickly and warned of "genocide" in the eastern city of Ajdaibya and "ethnic cleaning" in villages in the western part of the country."We think that in the coming hours we will see real genocide in Ajdabiya," he said."The international community has to act within the next ten hours."
Dabbashi also expressed confidence that the present draft resolution would be modified to include "air strikes."
The text of the draft resolution, co-authored by Britain and France, was circulated by Lebanon, a non-permanent member of the Council, on Tuesday.Separately, the UN Security Council rejected a Russian proposal to pass a smaller resolution calling for a ceasefire in Libya."We did come up with the idea of doing a brief but punchy ceasefire resolution," Russian envoy to the UN Vitaly Churkin said."I even offered to include some specific strong language directing the call for a ceasefire particularly to the Libyan authorities," he said, adding that the proposal was not meant to replace the no-fly zone resolution.In Washington, White House Press Secretary Jay Carney expressed hope that the US-led international community would move quickly on Libya."We are very heartened by the strong statement from the Arab League (which is supporting a no-fly zone over Libya)," he said.
"We think it is vital for these kinds of actions to be international in nature, and in this region it is vital for the support of nations in region in order to make it clear that this is not the West or the US dictating an outcome in a country like Libya, but it is the international community that is making demands and taking action very much in concert with other Arab nations," Carney said.
Martin Nesirky, a spokesman of UN chief Ban Ki-moon, said the Secretary General was "gravely concerned" about signs that Gaddafi was preparing to attack Benghazi.
"A campaign to bombard such an urban centre would massively place civilian lives at risk," he was quoted as saying."The Secretary General is urging all parties in this conflict to accept an immediate ceasefire and to abide by the Security Council resolution (passed last month imposing sanctions on the Libyan regime)."
Britain, France and Lebanon, on behalf of the Arab League, have been trying to overcome resistance at the UN Security Council to a no-fly zone.Meanwhile, the New York Times said four of its reporters covering the clashes between forces loyal to Gaddafi and rebels have gone missing."We have talked with officials of the Libyan government in Tripoli, and they tell us they are attempting to ascertain the whereabouts of our journalists," said Bill Keller, Executive Editor of the paper.According to UN estimates, more than 1,000 people have been killed in Libya in the uprising against Gaddafi which began on 14th February.Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi early Friday discussed Italy's response after a UN resolution cleared air strikes to halt Libyan strongman Moamer Kadhafi's onslaught on rebels.Berlsuconi met with Defence Minister Ignazio La Russa, President Giorgio Napolitano, undersecretary of state Gianni Letta and top military officials to discuss the UN decision to impose a no-fly zone , ANSA news agency said."Let's hope Italy keeps out of this initiative," Libyan Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled Kaaim told ANSA in Tripoli, referring to the possibility that Italy will allow its territory to be used for bombing raids on Libya."We are certain Italy has Libya's integrity and the protection of the population at heart. Let's hope that it doesn't consent to the use of its bases," he added.Massimo Panizzi, a NATO advisor, told reporters in Brussels that the alliance would examine the UN resolution in detail before taking any action."The UN Security Council's resolution will be examined carefully. NATO will act on a clear mandate and with regional support," Panizzi told SKY Italy.
Media agencies
Wikileaks revelation furore in Indian Parliament
Wikileaks revelation furore in Indian Parliament
Wikileaks news created pandemonium with the revelations over trust vote on Indo US Nuclear Deal in 2008 figuring in both the houses of Parliament.When Lok Sabha met, CPI leader Gurudas Dasgupta raised the issue of alleged bribing of members by the government to win the trust vote on the India-US nuclear deal and cited news reports quoting leaked diplomatic cables.Leader of the Opposition Sushma Swaraj said three BJP members had brought cash to the House in 2008 but the then Speaker had ordered an inquiry against them instead of taking cognisance of the matter.
SP leader Mulayam Singh Yadav asked the Speaker to allow a discussion on the matter saying his party had also played a key role in saving the UPA-I government.
"We had also worked to save the government in 2008. If all are painted by the same brush, we also stand to lose face. Only a discussion on this matter can clear our name," Yadav said.Responding to the attack, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee was dismissive, saying the charges pertained to the 14th Lok Sabha and could not be discussed in the current one.Mukherjee asserted in the Rajya Sabha that the cables cited by the Wikileaks website were correspondence between a sovereign government and its mission abroad and that he could not confirm or deny the allegations.
"Each Lok Sabha is sovereign in its time. What happened in the 14th Lok Sabha cannot be decided in the 15th Lok Sabha... Government of the day is accountable to the 15th Lok Sabha and not to the 14th Lok Sabha. Whatever happened in the 14th Lok Sabha has come to an end" with the end of the tenure, he said.He also asked whether Jaitley was satisfied that "whatever has appeared in newspaper report is admissible in the court of law."
The communication between the US Embassy and its government enjoys diplomatic immunity and "it is not possible for the government to either confirm it or deny it," Mukherjee said amid din.At this point, members from both the opposition and ruling benches were on their feet raising slogans and prompting the Speaker to adjourn the proceedings.
Wikileaks news created pandemonium with the revelations over trust vote on Indo US Nuclear Deal in 2008 figuring in both the houses of Parliament.When Lok Sabha met, CPI leader Gurudas Dasgupta raised the issue of alleged bribing of members by the government to win the trust vote on the India-US nuclear deal and cited news reports quoting leaked diplomatic cables.Leader of the Opposition Sushma Swaraj said three BJP members had brought cash to the House in 2008 but the then Speaker had ordered an inquiry against them instead of taking cognisance of the matter.
SP leader Mulayam Singh Yadav asked the Speaker to allow a discussion on the matter saying his party had also played a key role in saving the UPA-I government.
"We had also worked to save the government in 2008. If all are painted by the same brush, we also stand to lose face. Only a discussion on this matter can clear our name," Yadav said.Responding to the attack, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee was dismissive, saying the charges pertained to the 14th Lok Sabha and could not be discussed in the current one.Mukherjee asserted in the Rajya Sabha that the cables cited by the Wikileaks website were correspondence between a sovereign government and its mission abroad and that he could not confirm or deny the allegations.
"Each Lok Sabha is sovereign in its time. What happened in the 14th Lok Sabha cannot be decided in the 15th Lok Sabha... Government of the day is accountable to the 15th Lok Sabha and not to the 14th Lok Sabha. Whatever happened in the 14th Lok Sabha has come to an end" with the end of the tenure, he said.He also asked whether Jaitley was satisfied that "whatever has appeared in newspaper report is admissible in the court of law."
The communication between the US Embassy and its government enjoys diplomatic immunity and "it is not possible for the government to either confirm it or deny it," Mukherjee said amid din.At this point, members from both the opposition and ruling benches were on their feet raising slogans and prompting the Speaker to adjourn the proceedings.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
FBI, MHA collaboration
US' Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Home Ministry on Monday concluded a law enforcement exchange focusing on crime scene management and evidence collection techniques.Noting that evolving nature of terrorist and criminal acts requires an array of sophisticated tools and specialised examination to ensure that culprits are successfully brought to justice, US Ambassador Timothy Roemer said "after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, the US and India cooperated closely to provide the forensic work and testimony that convicted terrorist mastermind Ajmal Kasab."
He said collaboration between the US and India helped bring him to justice.
"Transnational criminals and terrorist organizations know no borders, and exchanges such as this one are an excellent method for the US and India to partner together to enhance our shared capabilities and fight a threat that is faced by every country," he said at the conclusion of the five-day exchange.Held recently in Chandigarh at Central Detective Training School of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD), 16 officers, selected by the MHA and BPRD from state
agencies across India, participated in the exchange.
FBI subject matter experts came to India to discuss best practices on a variety of crime scene issues with participants.Topics covered include crime scene administration and management, body fluid and blood collection, crime scene photography, DNA evidence collection, hair and fiber collection, latent fingerprints, and human remains recovery.
"All Indians and Americans alike from police officers to the average citizen benefit when our law enforcement officials have the proper training and expertise to effectively analyze a crime scene and accurately determine the perpetrators of heinous crimes that target innocent civilians," Roemer
He said collaboration between the US and India helped bring him to justice.
"Transnational criminals and terrorist organizations know no borders, and exchanges such as this one are an excellent method for the US and India to partner together to enhance our shared capabilities and fight a threat that is faced by every country," he said at the conclusion of the five-day exchange.Held recently in Chandigarh at Central Detective Training School of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD), 16 officers, selected by the MHA and BPRD from state
agencies across India, participated in the exchange.
FBI subject matter experts came to India to discuss best practices on a variety of crime scene issues with participants.Topics covered include crime scene administration and management, body fluid and blood collection, crime scene photography, DNA evidence collection, hair and fiber collection, latent fingerprints, and human remains recovery.
"All Indians and Americans alike from police officers to the average citizen benefit when our law enforcement officials have the proper training and expertise to effectively analyze a crime scene and accurately determine the perpetrators of heinous crimes that target innocent civilians," Roemer
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Nationwide atomic alert in Japan
Powerful earthquake along with Tsunami in Japan has taken toll 1700 people dead or unaccounted for, another disaster in Japan of explosion in a nuclear power plant has triggered a nationwide atomic alert.Japan in natural crisis is already reeling under the impact of giant tidal waves, an explosion occurred in the main reactor at Fukushima nuclear plant in northern Japan, 250 kilometres north of Tokyo, this afternoon leading to radiation leaks. Media reports say that the leak has injured four people buts So far, the authorities say, the steel container of the reactor itself has not been breached.Officials fear a meltdown. Residents living within a 20-km radius of the leaking plant have been asked to evacuate their homes. Kyodo news agency reported that the plant is experiencing a nuclear meltdown. This has been confirmed by Japanese nuclear scientists confirmed, after Prime Minister Naoto Kan visited the site in a helicopter early today. Reports said the main building of the plant housing the reactor and the outer walls were blown away in the high intensity explosion, which occurred at noon Indian Standard Time. The cooling water levels dropped alarmingly through evaporation after the quake had damaged the main plant. Jiji Press reported that the loss of cooling water is leading to a meltdown of the reactor. TV footage showed smoke billowing from the site and reported that the reactor building had been destroyed. Nearby residents have been warned to turn off air conditioners and not to drink tap water.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Who would become Russia's next president
Press Secretary of Russia's prime minister Dmitry Peskov, responding to former Soviet statesman Mikhail Gorbachev remark that the two leaders would decide between themselves who would become Russia's next president.
"First of all, I would like to reiterate that the time of pre-election moods is not here yet." "Personally I believe that those who Gorbachev had criticised never replied - neither one, nor the other - the reason is very simple: they never sat and agreed who to be Russia's next president, they said they would discuss who would stand for presidency."
Peskov agreed this would be done so, in order not to "compete with each other... At least, this is what they say." "They simply cannot have an agreement who would be next president, they may agree only on who will stand for it, and the final decision will be made over the national election, as simple as that, that is why the criticism did not cause any reply."
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said last month he does not want to compete with Prime Minister Vladimir Putin in the 2012 presidential elections."I do not want to see a power struggle; it would be bad for Russia," Medvedev said.He said he had no idea who might run for the presidential elections."It might be Medvedev, it might be Putin, and it might be someone else entirely," the president said.Vladimir Putin has not ruled out running in the next presidential election."We will reach an agreement because we are of the same blood and of the same political outlook," Putin famously said in May 2009 at the Valdai International Discussion Club meeting, in answer to a question about the competition between the two leaders.
Media agencies
"First of all, I would like to reiterate that the time of pre-election moods is not here yet." "Personally I believe that those who Gorbachev had criticised never replied - neither one, nor the other - the reason is very simple: they never sat and agreed who to be Russia's next president, they said they would discuss who would stand for presidency."
Peskov agreed this would be done so, in order not to "compete with each other... At least, this is what they say." "They simply cannot have an agreement who would be next president, they may agree only on who will stand for it, and the final decision will be made over the national election, as simple as that, that is why the criticism did not cause any reply."
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said last month he does not want to compete with Prime Minister Vladimir Putin in the 2012 presidential elections."I do not want to see a power struggle; it would be bad for Russia," Medvedev said.He said he had no idea who might run for the presidential elections."It might be Medvedev, it might be Putin, and it might be someone else entirely," the president said.Vladimir Putin has not ruled out running in the next presidential election."We will reach an agreement because we are of the same blood and of the same political outlook," Putin famously said in May 2009 at the Valdai International Discussion Club meeting, in answer to a question about the competition between the two leaders.
Media agencies
Earthquake struck Yunnan in China
On Thursday 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck southwest China's Yunnan province near the border with Myanmar has toppled 583 houses at Yingjiang county in the province around noon and left 201 people injured, 33 seriously, the state-run Xinhua news agency said, adding that at least 22 people were killed. The tremor triggered a power outage but telecommunication service remained normal in Yingjiang, said Wei Gang, head of the county government.According to the witnesses, people were buried under debris and part of a supermarket and a hotel caved in.Li Shaobo, chief of Yingjiang Education Bureau, said two students died in the earthquake while another one suffered serious injuries.
The earthquake, the largest of more than 1,200 minor tremors over the last two months in the region, is believed to have caused serious damage and loss, Liu Jie, a director with the earthquake forecast department, said, adding that the epicentre of the quake was stated to at the depth of 10 km.Three aftershocks, measuring up to 4.7 degrees on the Richter Scale jolted the county within 10 minutes of the first tremor.
China has been experiencing heavy quakes during the past few years.
Hundreds of people were killed in earthquakes in Sichuan province in 2009 and Qinghai last year.Eight earthquakes registering higher than 5 magnitude on the Richter Scale hit the county between 1991 and 2008 which was located about 700 km west of provincial capital Yunnan, Chen Jianmin, director of China Earthquake Administration said.Nearly 1,000 soldiers have been sent to join the rescue operation. Provincial governor Qin Guangrong called upon relevant authorities to save injured people, evacuate disaster-hit residents and calculate casualties and economic losses.The provincial disaster-relief and civil affairs authorities have launched an emergency response plan.The National Committee of Disaster Reduction and Ministry of Civil Affairs have dispatched 5,000 tents, 10,000 quilts, 10,000 clothes and other materials to the quake-hit region.Media agencies
The earthquake, the largest of more than 1,200 minor tremors over the last two months in the region, is believed to have caused serious damage and loss, Liu Jie, a director with the earthquake forecast department, said, adding that the epicentre of the quake was stated to at the depth of 10 km.Three aftershocks, measuring up to 4.7 degrees on the Richter Scale jolted the county within 10 minutes of the first tremor.
China has been experiencing heavy quakes during the past few years.
Hundreds of people were killed in earthquakes in Sichuan province in 2009 and Qinghai last year.Eight earthquakes registering higher than 5 magnitude on the Richter Scale hit the county between 1991 and 2008 which was located about 700 km west of provincial capital Yunnan, Chen Jianmin, director of China Earthquake Administration said.Nearly 1,000 soldiers have been sent to join the rescue operation. Provincial governor Qin Guangrong called upon relevant authorities to save injured people, evacuate disaster-hit residents and calculate casualties and economic losses.The provincial disaster-relief and civil affairs authorities have launched an emergency response plan.The National Committee of Disaster Reduction and Ministry of Civil Affairs have dispatched 5,000 tents, 10,000 quilts, 10,000 clothes and other materials to the quake-hit region.Media agencies
Alon Ushpiz Israeli envoy to India
Israeli cabinet has approved the appointment of Alon Ushpiz as the country's new envoy to India.Ushpiz is currently serving as Director (Coordination) in the office of the Foreign Ministry's Director General.He has served as a policy advisor to several former Israeli foreign ministers, including Benjamin Netanyahu, the current Prime Minister, Shimon Peres, the current President of State of Israel, David Levy, Shlomo Ben-Ami and Silvan Shalom.
A Hebrew University graduate in International relations and Japanese studies, Ushpiz, served as Political Secretary in the Israeli mission in Tokyo between 1995 and 1999.Among other prominent assignments during his diplomatic career, he served as Minister for Congressional Affairs at the Embassy of Israel in Washington between 1999 and 2003.The new Israeli envoy is expected to replace Mark Sofer in the summer of this year.
A Hebrew University graduate in International relations and Japanese studies, Ushpiz, served as Political Secretary in the Israeli mission in Tokyo between 1995 and 1999.Among other prominent assignments during his diplomatic career, he served as Minister for Congressional Affairs at the Embassy of Israel in Washington between 1999 and 2003.The new Israeli envoy is expected to replace Mark Sofer in the summer of this year.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Monday, March 7, 2011
Fierce battles in Libya
Libya appeared headed for a protracted civil war as fierce gunbattles raged between troops loyal to Muammar Gaddafi and rebels in eastern cities with Libyan jets pounding opposition-held areas, while machine-gun fire rocked Tripoli, the stronghold of the embattled leader.
Libyan jets targeted rebel-held areas Bin Zawad, oil port city of Ras Lanuf, Misurata and Az-Zawiyah, which lies just 50 km west of Tripoli, Al Jazeera said.
Amid conflicting reports, Libyan state television claimed that shots were fired in celebration of Gaddafi forces having regained control of the cities of Misurata and Az-Zawiyah, a day after anti-government fighters repelled repeated attacks by forces loyal to Gaddafi.However, residents of Misurata said reports that the city had been recaptured were false, Al Jazeera said.Faced with international sanctions, 68-year-old Gaddafi in an interview to French newspaper Le Journal du Dimanche, warned of an "Islamic Jihad" if his regime continues to come under all round attack.
"I want an investigation team of the UN or the African Union in Libya. We will allow the commission to go on the field without any hindrance," he said.
More than two weeks since the uprising began against Gaddafi's 41-year rule, heavy gunfire was heard in the capital today.
The gunfire began at about 0545 local time (0915 IST), BBC reported.
The machine-gun and heavy weapons fire could be heard across the city.
Anti-Gaddafi rebels have taken much of the country in the revolt that began on 15th February and have repeatedly denied government claims they have lost towns.
BBC said Tobruk and Ras Lanuf remain in rebel hands. State TV showed pictures of tanks, armoured-personnel carriers and other weapons it said were seized on Saturday from rebels in Az-Zawiyah.Witnesses told Al Jazeera that rebel forces were able to repel heavy government assaults on their positions on Saturday.Thirty people were killed and as many as 200 people injured in the violence.While Benghazi, the country's second largest city, is in the hands of anti-Gaddafi forces, Libyan military was moving fast to oust the opposition, reports said.
In his interview to the French journal, Gaddafi said he favoured France "coordinating and leading" the investigative body."France should have been the first to send a commission of inquiry. I hope that it will change its attitude towards us," he said.Gaddafi warned that the unrest in Libya would have serious consequences for Europe."Thousands of people will invade Europe from Libya. And there will be nobody to stop them."He also claimed that al-Qaeda was behind the protests against his regime.
"There will be an Islamic Jihad in front of you, in the Mediterranean ... People of (Osama) bin Laden will impose ransom on land and sea... This will really be a global emergency and a disaster for everybody," he told the paper.
"They will attack the US Sixth Fleet. There will be acts of piracy here at your gates, about 50 kilometres from your borders," he was quoted as saying.
Separately, Gaddafi was quoted as saying by London's 'The Sunday Times' that he would not leave his hometown to live abroad in exile.
On efforts by British Premier David Cameron and other Western powers to freeze his family's assets, he was quoted as saying, "I challenge Cameron and everybody else if he can bring one dinar that belongs to me in any foreign bank."
In the eastern part of the country, the rebels said they were advancing westwards on Sirte, the heavily-defended hometown of Gaddafi, according to BBC.
After taking the oil terminal port of Ras Lanuf in heavy fighting on Friday, rebel forces had entered the town of Bin Jawad, 160 kms from Sirte.The fighting and explosions yesterday in the rebel-held territory had claimed 74 lives in Libya, where the UN says more than 1,000 people have died since the revolt began in mid-February.
Rebels said that they had formed local councils in cities they control in the eastern region with an aim to lead the nation into elections, local media reports said.As ding-dong heavy battles continued across the country, the US and NATO warships and fighters were positioned off the strife-torn country's coast.
US President Barack Obama has said that their primary mission is to undertake humanitarian evacuation, "but all options are on the table."
Libyan jets targeted rebel-held areas Bin Zawad, oil port city of Ras Lanuf, Misurata and Az-Zawiyah, which lies just 50 km west of Tripoli, Al Jazeera said.
Amid conflicting reports, Libyan state television claimed that shots were fired in celebration of Gaddafi forces having regained control of the cities of Misurata and Az-Zawiyah, a day after anti-government fighters repelled repeated attacks by forces loyal to Gaddafi.However, residents of Misurata said reports that the city had been recaptured were false, Al Jazeera said.Faced with international sanctions, 68-year-old Gaddafi in an interview to French newspaper Le Journal du Dimanche, warned of an "Islamic Jihad" if his regime continues to come under all round attack.
"I want an investigation team of the UN or the African Union in Libya. We will allow the commission to go on the field without any hindrance," he said.
More than two weeks since the uprising began against Gaddafi's 41-year rule, heavy gunfire was heard in the capital today.
The gunfire began at about 0545 local time (0915 IST), BBC reported.
The machine-gun and heavy weapons fire could be heard across the city.
Anti-Gaddafi rebels have taken much of the country in the revolt that began on 15th February and have repeatedly denied government claims they have lost towns.
BBC said Tobruk and Ras Lanuf remain in rebel hands. State TV showed pictures of tanks, armoured-personnel carriers and other weapons it said were seized on Saturday from rebels in Az-Zawiyah.Witnesses told Al Jazeera that rebel forces were able to repel heavy government assaults on their positions on Saturday.Thirty people were killed and as many as 200 people injured in the violence.While Benghazi, the country's second largest city, is in the hands of anti-Gaddafi forces, Libyan military was moving fast to oust the opposition, reports said.
In his interview to the French journal, Gaddafi said he favoured France "coordinating and leading" the investigative body."France should have been the first to send a commission of inquiry. I hope that it will change its attitude towards us," he said.Gaddafi warned that the unrest in Libya would have serious consequences for Europe."Thousands of people will invade Europe from Libya. And there will be nobody to stop them."He also claimed that al-Qaeda was behind the protests against his regime.
"There will be an Islamic Jihad in front of you, in the Mediterranean ... People of (Osama) bin Laden will impose ransom on land and sea... This will really be a global emergency and a disaster for everybody," he told the paper.
"They will attack the US Sixth Fleet. There will be acts of piracy here at your gates, about 50 kilometres from your borders," he was quoted as saying.
Separately, Gaddafi was quoted as saying by London's 'The Sunday Times' that he would not leave his hometown to live abroad in exile.
On efforts by British Premier David Cameron and other Western powers to freeze his family's assets, he was quoted as saying, "I challenge Cameron and everybody else if he can bring one dinar that belongs to me in any foreign bank."
In the eastern part of the country, the rebels said they were advancing westwards on Sirte, the heavily-defended hometown of Gaddafi, according to BBC.
After taking the oil terminal port of Ras Lanuf in heavy fighting on Friday, rebel forces had entered the town of Bin Jawad, 160 kms from Sirte.The fighting and explosions yesterday in the rebel-held territory had claimed 74 lives in Libya, where the UN says more than 1,000 people have died since the revolt began in mid-February.
Rebels said that they had formed local councils in cities they control in the eastern region with an aim to lead the nation into elections, local media reports said.As ding-dong heavy battles continued across the country, the US and NATO warships and fighters were positioned off the strife-torn country's coast.
US President Barack Obama has said that their primary mission is to undertake humanitarian evacuation, "but all options are on the table."
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Jiabao: China look for economic reform
Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said in a State of Nation address at the opening of the National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing on Saturday "We will comprehensively deepen reform, press ahead with economic reforms and advance political restructuring," Wen's key remarks on political reforms came in the background of attempts by overseas dissident groups to stir up protests labelled as "Jasmine Revolution" using the internet during the last two weeks.
The attempts have so far failed to materialise into public protests after police made heavy show of strength in Beijing and other cities. The Chinese government has also issued stern warning to the foreign media about the coverage of such incidents with threats to cancel media accreditations and visas.
Regarded as a liberal in the Communist Party, Wen acknowledged "great resentment" in China over growing income disparity and said "we must make institutional changes to end the excessive concentration of power and lack of checks on power and resolutely prevent and punish corruption".
"We must safeguard the people's democratic rights and legitimate rights and interests and safeguard social fairness and justice," he said addressing the packed meeting at the Great Hall of people attended by President Hu Jintao, top leaders of the party besides 5000 deputies of the joint meeting of the NPC and Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).NPC has about 3000 deputies, while the CPPCC has mostly nominated members who have made a mark in different fields of social development.The two bodies meet annually once about a fortnight to discuss and debate new legislations and reforms.
The attempts have so far failed to materialise into public protests after police made heavy show of strength in Beijing and other cities. The Chinese government has also issued stern warning to the foreign media about the coverage of such incidents with threats to cancel media accreditations and visas.
Regarded as a liberal in the Communist Party, Wen acknowledged "great resentment" in China over growing income disparity and said "we must make institutional changes to end the excessive concentration of power and lack of checks on power and resolutely prevent and punish corruption".
"We must safeguard the people's democratic rights and legitimate rights and interests and safeguard social fairness and justice," he said addressing the packed meeting at the Great Hall of people attended by President Hu Jintao, top leaders of the party besides 5000 deputies of the joint meeting of the NPC and Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).NPC has about 3000 deputies, while the CPPCC has mostly nominated members who have made a mark in different fields of social development.The two bodies meet annually once about a fortnight to discuss and debate new legislations and reforms.
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