'Blue Moon' appeared in Indian Sky

A bright moon appeared in India just after sun set. Although most people in the US woke up to be greeted by a bright Sun, Indians were cheerful and joyous to see the blue moon at the same time. People in Australia already witnessed that beautiful sight. A few days back, it was reported that people in India, Australia and some other parts of the world would witness this celestial phenomenon and it came true.

The sight is termed as 'blue moon' because two full moons occurred in a single calender month. The last full moon was seen on June 1 and the second one is visible today on 30th June. `Blue moon' is an astronomical term used to describe the second full moon in a month. Such an an event occurs only once every two-and-a-half years.

News At A Glance: 30 June 2007

1) Life in Mumbai came to Halt: Continuous rain over the past few days brought the normal life in Mumbai to a standstill. Water logging has heavily affected the normal traffic. Railway service, Bus service and Air traffic are also badly affected. Causalities have been reported from various parts of the city.

2) Sahib's Body: The deceased BJP leader Sahib Singh Verma's body will be brought to Delhi and will be kept in his Tughlaq Road residence for public view. Funeral will be held on Sunday in Azad Hind village.

3) Champions Challenge Hockey: India failed to make it to the final of the Champions Challenge Hockey tournament in Belgium despite beating Japan 4-3 in a cliffhanger. India will clash with England for the bronze medal.

4) Blast in Tinsukia: At least two people were killed and 25 were injured in a serial blast in Assam's Tinsukia district. The first two explosions took place in two crowded market of Tinsukia twon. The third blast took place outside a cinema in Doomdooma, which falls under Tinsukia district.

5) New ICC President: the ICC finally announced that David Morgan, chairman of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), will be the ICC president in 2008. A compromise formula worked between Morgan and BCCI President Sharad Pawar. Morgan will be in office for two years. He will relinquish the job in 2010. Then, Sharad Pawar will take over as the ICC President.

Sahib Singh Verma died in a Road Accident

Former Delhi Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Sahib Singh Verma died in a road accident near Shajapur in Rajasthan. The incident occurred on the NH-8 when his car collided with a cargo truck. The body was trapped inside the car and he died on the spot. His driver and the gunner also died on the spot. Another person was rushed to hospital, but he also succumbed to injuries. Sahib Singh's Tata Safari was damaged beyond imagination.

The cargo truck was cut into two pieces. However, its driver survived with injuries, who was later arrested by the police. The accident occurred when the truck driver took a wrong turn in order to save a cyclist. The cyclist is badly injured and is undergoing treatment in the hospital.

Sahib Singh Verma was the Vice-President of BJP, and did a lot to revive BJP in Delhi and neighboring states. He served as the Labor Minister in the NDA government.

Sahib Singh's death came as a big loss for BJP, which is fighting for its survival. The party suffered heavily in Maharashtra after Pramod Mahajan's death. Now it plunged into severe crisis in Delhi. Former CM Madan Lal Khurana has already been expelled from the Party. Sahib's death will put the party in trouble just ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections.

News At A Glance: 29 June 2007

1) Bomb in London: London Police say deactivated a suspected bomb capable of creating huge casualties. the bomb was found inside a car. It created panic across the UK just a day after Gordon Brown took over as the new Prime Minister.

2) Sachin completed 15,000 runs in ODI: Master blaster Sachin Tendulkar achieved yet another milestone when he completed 15,000 runs in ODI. Sachin set this record while playing against South Africa in Belfast.

3) India beat South Africa: It was a do or die match for India and the team clicked in right time. India beat South Africa by 6 wickets in the 2nd ODI to level the series 1-1. Sachin Tendulkar scored 93. Now all eyes will be on the third and deciding game of the series.

4) Dera Chief's Arrest: The Punjab & Haryana High Court gave a reprive to Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh who faced arrest in a murder case. The HC granted interim bail to him until August 6.

5) US Senate Derails Immigration Bill: In a major setback to the 12 million illegal immigrants, the US Senate has derailed a landmark Immigration Bill which would have paved the way for regularisation of their status.

6) Doctors spurn Pregnant Lady with HIV+: In a bizarre incident, a man was forced to help deliver his baby in a hospital in Meerut after doctors refused to attend to his HIV-positive wife. The hospital authorities have ordered a probe into the incident. The Allahabad High Court also sought a report over the incident.

7) India lose in Hockey: India lost to Argentina 1-2 in the Champions Challenge hockey tournament in Belgium.

8) Sania out of Wimbledon: Sania Mirza lost in the second round of Wimbledon Open tennis tournament. she lost to Nadia Petrova in straight sets.

Latest Fashion Trend: Animals at Stake

Nowadays the animal-skinned accessories fashion is striding upwards and its demand is soaring, mainly in Europe and America. A very explicit example of this trend was seen in the Paris Fashion Week 2007, which showcased a wide variety of furs and skins from the top brands, which turned out to be a hit.

Christian Dior put on show his collection of python and ostrich skin coats, which also was ornamented with fox sleeves. Calvin Klein's spring collection featured alligator jackets and Celine left everyone mesmerized by walking on the ramp in a white python skirt suit. Other hits were Jimmy Choo’s snakeskin sandals and Ferragamo’s collection of alligator footwear. Nike launched the saltwater crocodile shoe at its 25th anniversary on sale at its stores.

Legendary designer Roberto Cavalli, a supporter of this trend, said "I love to use reptile skins because it excites me to take a material that is seen as 'wild' and mix it with a look that shouts glamour and sophistication. Exotic skin - alligator, crocodile and snake - also gives the impression of being super luxurious and expensive, a look women are into at the moment."

It is really sad to know that even though today when the eco-friendly and animal-friendly fashion is available, people are crazy for these animal skin made items, which still has its own huge market and is in demand even today.

Conservationists are really worried by this trend. One hundred and seventy one member countries of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) held a 12-day conference in Holland to find out a way to deal with this problem.

The animals that are used for such commodities are usually skinned alive to protect their skin and for an animal like crocodile it takes more than two hours to die after its skin is ripped.

According to Yvonne Taylor, a PETA campaigner, "In today's market where status accessories are everything, there is a growing niche of wealthy customers willing to pay up to £15,000 for a single bag. Many breeds of crocodile, alligator and other reptiles have been hunted to the brink of extinction. Sickeningly, the rarer they become as a result of poaching, the more desirable they are. The knock-on effect is terrifying."

Should such a fashion trend be encouraged that warrants animal killing for consumerism???????

News At A Glance: 28 June 2007

1) Stamp Paper Scam: Abdul Karim Telgi, the prime accused in the Fake Stamp Paper case, pleaded guilty in the MCOCA court and cried like a child. He confessed all the crimes and begged for mercy. However, the court sentenced him to 13 years in jail. He was also fined Rs. 50 crore. Although Telgi himself pleaded guilty, he did not name any politician.

2) World Heritage status for Red Fort: Red Fort, India's symbol of pride, has been given the World Heritage status by UNESCO.

3) RBI raises questions on Pratibha's Bank: UPA-Left Presidential nominee Pratibha Patil's Mahila Sahakari Bank comes under RBI scanner. The RBI has raised questions on Pratibha's way of functioning. It found serious irregularities in the functioning of the bank.

Blair Era Ends, Gordon Brown is the New British PM

After serving 10 years as the Prime Minister of Britain, Tony Blair finally called it a day. He submitted his resignation to Queen Elizabeth - II, which was accepted. Gordon Brown will be the new Prime Minister of Britain. He will receive the formal offer of Prime Ministership from the Queen later today.

Tony Blair will quit as MP tomorrow and is expected to take charge as Special Envoy for the Middle East Peace process. He will represent the Mideast Quartet -- the United States, Russia, the European Union and the United Nations. However, an official announcement will be made shortly in this regard.

News At A Glance: 27 June 2007

1) India - South Africa ODI: Powered by an unbeaten knock of 91 by Jacques Kallis, South Africa beat India by 4 wickets. Sachin Tendulkar failed to score his 42nd ton, when he was run out for 99.

2) Sania at Wimbledon: Sania Mirza cruised into the second round of Wimbledon Open by beating Russian Yaroslava Shvedova in straight sets.

3) Champions Challenge Hockey: India beat Belgium 4-1 in the Champions Challenge hockey tournament in Boom (Belgium). It was India's second victory from 3 matches.

4) Pratibha talks to Spirit: UPA-Left President nominee, Pratibha Patil found herself in another controversy when claimed to have spoken to the spirit of Baba Lekhraj from whom she got a "divine premonition" of greater responsibility coming her way.

News At A Glance: 26 June 2007

1) Crack in BJP-Shiv Sena Alliance: The BJP leaders have come out in open with their criticism of Shiv Sena after a day of the later annoucing its support for UPA-Left candidate Pratibha Patil. The 23-year old alliance between Sena and BJP is in severe crisis and it's to be seen what stand the central BJP leadership will take in this regard.

2) Paris Hilton Released: After a traumatic three-week stay in prison, Paris Hilton was finally released from jail at the stroke of midnight.

3) Kumaraswamy's Aide in I-T Net: Income Tax officials raided the residence of Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy's close aide S Manjunath in Bangalore. According to sources, they recovered cash worth crores and several confidential documents.

Jolt to NDA., Shiv Sena to support Pratibha Patil

In a new twist into the political drama surrounding the Presidential elections, key NDA ally Shiv Sena snubbed NDA and decided to support Pratibha Patil for the post of President. Shiv Sena supremo Bal Thackeray announced his decision at a press conference today. Shiv Sena took this unprecedented decision in support of a Maharashtrian for highest office of the country.

Shiv Sena not only decided to support Pratibha Patil, but also it criticized BS Shekhawat for his earlier offer to withdraw from the President race in favor of President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. Sena's decision might strain the decades-long relationship between BJP and Shiv Sena. NDA will now have to rethink its strategy vis-a-vis Shiv Sena.

Pressure points: A way of Self Defense

Pressure points are the areas in our body where maximum pain is felt when that area is pressurized or attacked. A basic knowledge of these pressure points can turn out to be powerful weapon of self defense in a situation where you need to defend yourself from an attacker.

A brief info on some easily accessible pressure points in our body.

PRESSURE POINTS OF THE NECK: These pressure points can be used to cause pain resulting in fainting and unconsciousness.

1. Behind the jaw in the depression under the jaw. Striking diagonally back to front can result in unconsciousness or dislocation of the jaw.

2. In depression behind the corner of the jaw. Poke or press in and upward at a 45 degree angle toward the center of the head. This action causes pain and may result in jaw dislocation.

3. Notch at bottom of jaw. Hitting on line 45 degrees toward the center of the head will cause pain.

PRESSURE POINTS OF THE ARM: These points can use be used to control your opponent and to bring him to the ground.

1. Front of arm where the pulse is located on the thumb side of the wrist. Press in toward the bone and up toward the wrist resulting in hand weakness.

2. On the little finger side of the front of the hand approximately 1/2 inch below the wrist crease. Press against the bone and toward the hand resulting in weakening of the grip.

3. Inside of arm just below the inner knob of the elbow. Striking or pressing causes the elbow to bend and the arm to go numb.

4. Front of arm 2-3 inches above the inside of the elbow. Striking causes the elbow to bend and pain to extend down the arm to the little finger.

5. Back of arm in the mid-triceps area. Strike against bone to lock elbow and release shoulder.

PRESSURE POINTS OF THE LEG: These points can be used to immobilize an attacker and to seriously damage the leg or knee.

1. The back of the thigh just below the buttocks. Kick causes leg immobilization.

2. The middle of the inner thigh halfway between the groin and the knee. Kicking with the toes or pressing hard with the knuckle causes very searing pain.

3. The inside of the leg halfway between the ankle bone and the lower edge of the calf muscle. Kicking from inside the leg with a rising motion causes the leg to go numb.

4. Back of the leg just below the knee. Stamping kick or toe kick causes severe pain and muscle spasm.

5. The top of the foot where the 4th and 5th toe bones connect. Stamp on it to cause pain.

6. Achilles tendon at the back of the ankle. Kick with edge of foot or shoe to cause pain.

HRT can reduce Cardiac Risk

Latest research has shown that women using HRT (hormone replacement therapy) have lesser chance of having coronary artery disease than those who does not.

A test was done by Women’s Health Initiative on 1,064 women who were between 50-59 taking estrogen-only HRT and others coming under the placebo group. After one year of their treatment, a CT scan was done to measure the level of calcium plaque in their arteries. It was found that those using HRT has 30-40% less chance of forming calcium deposits. Calcium deposit is considered to be the first warning sign leading to heart diseases. This was also proven for younger postmenopausal women with HRT against those without any treatment.

Although estrogen has its own benefits in reducing the amount of calcium formation but it has its other major side effects too, which cannot be ruled out. It cannot be used as a preventive measure for cardiovascular diseases, but can be used on a short-term basis for hot flashes or night sweats in postmenopausal women, per Dr Joann Manson, Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts

Team India Sick; Ishant, Ranadeb get Ireland Call

India's Ireland tour got a jolt when seven Indian cricketers failed to adjust with the climate and fell sick. Skipper Rahul Dravid, Vice-captain MS Dhoni, Zaheer Khan, RP Singh, Ajit Agarkar, Romesh Powar and S Sreesanth are down with cold and viral fever and are not sure of recovering over the next few days. Even Sachin Tendulkar is not hundred percent fit, but he is confident of making it to the playing eleven for the next match.

The BCCI acted quickly and asked fast bowlers Ishant Sharma and Ranadeb Bose to join the Indian cricket team in Ireland. Rakesh Patel, who is currently playing county cricket, has also been asked to join the team. These players can reach Ireland only for the second match. That clearly suggests that Team India will not be at its best while playing the next match against South Africa.

News At A Glance: 25 June 2007

1) Shekhawat files Nomination: Vice-president BS Shekhawat filed his nomination papers for the post of President. He has the backing of NDA although Shiv Sena has not made up its mind. Even UNPA leaders have not opened their cards yet. According to sources, the TDP, INLD and the SP might abstain from voting.

2) Rain in Mumbai: Heavy rains brought the life in Mumbai to a standstill. It hit the flight, train and bus services badly. The death toll in the rain-hit Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Mahrashtra crossed 130.

3) Ireland Tour: India beat Ireland by 9 wickets in the Belfast ODI on 23 June 2007. Gautam Gambhir was adjudged man of the match for his unbeaten knock of 80. South Africa beat Ireland by 42 runs in another match on 24 June.

4) Champions Challenge Hockey: After losing the first match against New Zealand by a margin of 0-2, India beat Englad 3-2 to revive its hope in the Champions Challenge Hockey tournament in Boom (Belgium).

5) Abducted boy Found: Pranshu, who was kidnapped from Surat a week ago, was found in Orissa. He is being brought back to Surat. The main accused is absconding while the police have arrested a few people in this case.

6) Haren Pandya Murder Case: The designated POTA court of Ahmedabad has sentenced nine accused to life imprisonment for the murder of former Gujarat Minister of State for home, Haren Pandya. Two others were handed over 7 years imprisonment. It can be recalled that Haren Pandya's murder in 2003 created a sensation all over the country.

News At A Glance: 23 June 2007

1) Atlantis Returns: Putting all the anxious moments into rest, space shuttle Atlantis returned to earth. All the seven members including India-born astronaut Sunita Williams are reported safe and healthy.

2) Patil's Nomination: UPA-Left candidate Pratibha Patil filed her nomination at Sansad Bhawan today. Leaders like Sonia Gandhi, PM Dr. Manmohan Singh, Laloo Prasad Yadav, Ajit Singh and Ramvilas Paswan.

3) Kalam's No: President APJ Abdul Kalam did not get into a political controversy and refused to contest the Presidential elections again. He expressed deep hurt and pain over the ways UPA ministers criticized him over the past few days. Although he was the people's President, political parties wanted a rubber stamp to play in their hands.

4) Pratibha in Controversy: A widow in Mumbai alleged that Presidential nominee Pratibha Patil's brother killed her husband in 2005 and Pratibha has been trying to shield him. She demanded a speedy and impartial CBI probe into the case.

5) Pratibha, Loan Defaulter?: A Mumbai Central District Co-operative Bank (Mumbai Bank) issued a notice to a Jalgaon sugar factory floated by Pratibha Patil for default of a loan to the tune of Rs 17.70 crore. That created a fresh controversy in the political circle.

6) Heavy Rain in Andhra Pradesh: At least 45 people were killed when heavy rain lashed several parts of Andhra Pradesh. The rain was caused by a deep depression in the Bay of Bengal.

7) ICC on WC Blunder: The ICC took strong exception on the role played by the match officials during the World Cup Cricket 2007 and punished 5 match officials for the blunder. It decided not to appoint Steve Bucknor, Aleem Dar, Rudi Koertzen, Billy Bowden and ICC match referee Jeff Crowe in the ICC World Twenty20 Championship in South Africa in September.

8) Ship Sinking: The cargo ship - MV DenDen has sunk off the Mangalore coast. Around 21 people from the crew have been rescued, while 2 crew members have lost their lives. One is still missing.

Carnival of Sports #9

Greetings! Welcome to the 9th edition of the Carnival of Sports. We have received 16 posts for this edition. I am sure that our readers will enjoy reading these. Here are the posts in the order they were received.

Kevin presents The lowlights of my sporting career posted at pointlessbanter.net. Here are the lowlights of Kevin's sporting career.

Don presents What to do? Wie don’t know… yet posted at With Malice. It's a discussion on the Michelle Wie issue - are her problems parentally-driven?

Sheppard Salter presents Reminiscing On Hiking posted at salterblog.com. The day was perfect. Perfect in temperature, perfect in sunshine, perfect in stillness. Felt very close to God that day. The heart of that day was one of simplicity. Very few real cares, just pure enjoyment.

Patrick DiCaprio presents Game Theory and Pitch Selection posted at The Fantasy Baseball Generals. This is an article on the use of game theory as applied to baseball pitch selection. The blog pertains to baseball generally, and also seeks to apply the principles of game theory, military strategy, economics and other strategy based disciplines to fantasy baseball.

Trish Rubin presents Cedric Jones’ Leadership Playbook:15 Winning Tips from the Field of Play posted at Trish Rubin's New York Minute. It’s early morning at 480 Park Avenue, Sports Headquarters for pro football in Manhattan. The New York City skyline is the backdrop for this high power business meeting as influential division heads of departments gather. Together they make pro ball run as smoothly as a well oiled machine.

Manuel presents Soccer Tips - Soccer Betting, The New Investment posted at Soccer Videos, Articles and More!. There are a lot of soccer tipsters providing soccer tips on the Internet. This number is now ever growing as more and more people are going into soccer betting as another form of income.

You Been Blinded presents KEVIN GARNETT, ALLEN IVERSON, OR KOBE OFFERED FOR #1 PICK? posted at YOU BEEN BLINDED. According to information provided by the Oregonian's Jason Quick and my assumptive deduction, 2 players from the Garnett, Iverson, and Kobe trio were recently offered to Portland in exchange for the #1 pick.

J Matthew Buchanan presents Omniscient umpires and baseball hate crimes posted at TMRFN!. Commentary on the 1st inning ejection of Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly by umpire Jim Wolf - sounds like a new MLB "hate crime" policy to me.

Rickey Henderson presents Whither Shawn Green? posted at Riding with Rickey. Rickey's thoughts on the Mets.

J Matthew Buchanan presents TMRFN! - Trade Me Right Fucking Now! posted at TMRFN!. A trade demand by a mediocre goalie who needs an assist from his English-speaking teammate on the language to use. A classic outrageous sports moment.

Sepehr Moghadam presents Do you know how to run? posted at Minus The Fat. All sports require proper training methods. To build endurance you gotta run, but do you know how to run? Learn more about your running form.

Madeleine Begun Kane presents Motor Boating Just Isn't Our Speed (Humor Column) posted at Mad Kane's Humor Blog. Madkane's humor post on motor boating.

Therapydoc presents Attached posted at Everyone Needs Therapy. Is driving a car a sport? Walking? Riding a bike?

FitBuff presents 10 Fitness Facts and Statistics to Keep You Motivated posted at FitBuff.com's Total Mind and Body Fitness Blog. A whopping 96% of men admit to skipping a workout on more than one occasion when it conflicted with some other activity (i.e. watching a game).

Ayush T presents Manchester United's New Signings posted at The Match Referee. Manchester United's early swoop for two of the game’s brightest talents along with the acquisition of a proven performer in Hargreaves would have really put the rest of Europe’s major football clubs on the back foot.

Bryan K presents Scirrotto kicked out till August Your Home for Penn State Football and Sports posted at Fire Jay Pa. Penn State defensive back Anthony Scirrotto was kicked out of school until August by the university's Office of Judicial Affairs, while teammate Lydell Sargeant's attorney announced he will fight the same punishment.

That concludes the 9th edition of the Carnival of Sports. Next edition of this carnival will be hosted here on 03 July, 2007. You can submit your posts here.

News At a Glance: 21 June 2007

1) Road for Kalam: The Left Front rejected UNPA's request to support President APJ Abdul Kalam for a second term. Railway Minister Laloo Prasad Yadav and Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar also said "NO" to Kalam's candidature. Even the I&B Minister Priya Ranjan Dasmunshi criticized Kalam for his desire to contest the elections again.

2) Left Rule in West Bengal: The Left Front government in West Bengal completed 30 years of uninterrupted rule. However, according to a CNN-IBN Survey, people are losing faith in its rule.

3) Big B in Tax Soup: Amitabh Bachchan finds himself in tax net, as the Bombay High Court issued notices to actor Amitabh Bachchan, the Union Government, Revenue Intelligence Department and the Enforcement Directorate in a case of alleged tax evasion and cover-up deals.

4) Bus Mishap: At least 12 people were killed and 21 were injured when a bus fell into a gorge in Kainchimode area near Dharmsala.

5) Anti-conversion Bill and Pratibha: On the last day of her office as the Governor of Rajasthan, Pratibha Patil created another controversy by signing the anti-conversion bill, which was pending for a year. It can be recalled Pratibha had earlier refused to sign the bill and the Congress Party pointed to that instance to prove her secular credentials.

News at a Glance: 20 June 2007

1) Kalam Ready for a Second Term: President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam has expressed his willingness to seek a second term if there is a overall consensus over his name. He wants to contest the election if there is a chance of "certain" win. He told this to the UNPA leaders who met them later in the day.

2) Shiv Sena for Patil: Shiv Sena supremo Bala Saheb Thackeray hinted that his might support Pratibha Patil for the post of the President. However, he will announce his stand only on 25 June. Bal Thackeray categorically rejected Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam's name for the highest office. There is no doubt that he and Sena are in a dillema over the Presidential polls.

3) Rani Mukherjee Engaged: According to unconfirmed sources, Bollywood heartthrob Rani Mukherjee got engaged to director Aditya Chopra. However, the news was denied by Yash Raj films.

4) Aishwarya Rai in US TV Series: Aishwarya Rai will feature in one of the top US TV series. She has been signed up to star in the top US sci-fi serial ‘Heroes’.

5) Sex Education: After Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, school teachers in Punjab refused to follow the new text book released by the AIDS Control Society for sex education in schools of Punjab.

6) Nithari Killing: The special CBI Court rejected the bail plea of Maninder Singh Pandher, one of the accused in Nithari Killing case.

7) Sri Lanka Crisis: Sri Lankan Navy said that it destroyed 5 boats belonging to LTTE, killing 40 guerillas.

8) Rajasthan Calender Row: A Jodhpur court has ordered a police inquiry into the calendar controversy surrounding Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje Scindia. The complaint has been filed against the temple priest who made the calendar, as well as a local BJP MLA Suryakanta Vyas who released the calendar.

9) UP CPMT: Under pressure from several quarters, the UP government withheld the CPMT results and announced that the fresh results will be declared soon. A two member committee comprising of Special Secretary Medical Education S K Raghuvanshi and Director General, Medical Education Dr Kamal Sahni will probe the matter.

Breaking News: Shekhawat favors Kalam as President

In a new twist to the Presidential race, NDA-backed independent candidate BS Shekhawat offered his support to APJ Abdul Kalam for the President post. Shekhawat expressed his happiness over the UNPA's nomination of Kalam's name. Shekhawat believe that Kalam is the most suitable candidate for the highest post and he urged all the parties to get consensus on Kalam's candidature.

However, it is yet to be seen whether Kalam will agree to contest against the UPA-Left candidate. He already made it clear that he would not seek a second term if there is no consensus over his name. Whatever, the political atmosphere is charged up with the latest developments. There is no doubt that public opinion is in favor of APJ Abdul Kalam, as he has proved himself as the best President India ever had.

News at a Glance: 18 June 2007

1) NDA Candidate: Vice President BS Shekhawat will contest the Presidential elections as an independent candidate. NDA has extended its support to Shekhawat. However, Shiv Sena will take a final decision tomorrow.

2) APJ Abdul Kalam: The Third Front has decided to support APJ Abdul Kalam if he decides to continue as President. It will seek support of other political parties in this regard.

3) Pratibha in Controversy: The UPA-Left Presidential nominee Pratibha Patil has created a stir by giving a controversial statement at a function in Udaipur. She said that the purdah (veil) system was introduced in India to protect women from Mughal invaders.

4) Bhagalpur Riots Case: A Bhagalpur sessions court convicted 14 people in the Bhagalpur communal riots of 1989. At least 116 people belonging to the minority community were killed in the riots. Most of the accused are absconding.

5) Hannah Foster Case: The Delhi High Court stayed the extradition of Manider Singh Kohli to UK. Maninder is accused of raping and killing British teenager Hannah Foster in 2003. Next hearing of the case will be on 06 July, 2007.

6) Shweta vs Raja: Famous TV Actress Shweta Tiwary filed a police complaint against her husband Raja Choudhury for alleged abuse and torture. When Raja was approached by the media, he lost control and misbehaved with Jenice Sequiera, a woman journalist from Aaj Tak. Jenice later filed a complaint with the police.

7) Siddhivinayak Temple: The Siddhivinayak temple administration in Mumbai banned flowers and coconuts inside the temple following a bomb scare.

8) Ludhiana City Centre Scam: The Supreme Court refused to hear the petition challenging former Punjab CM Amrinder Singh's interim bail in the Ludhiana City Cetre scam.

9) US Grand Prix: Britain's Lewis Hamilton won the U.S. Grand Prix on Sunday. This is his second victory in a row and now he is 10 points ahead of McLaren team mate Fernando Alonso in the Formula One championship.

10) UNPA: At the Chennai meeting, the third front named itself as United National Progressive Alliance (UNPA). Jayalalitha will be the leader of the alliance.

Sunita returns Home this Week

Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams will make it home this week after getting clearance from NASA for re-entry of space shuttle Atlantis’ thermal protection system into earth atmosphere and setting a new world record for longest uninterrupted space flight by a woman.

As per the plan, Atlantis will leave International Space Station on Tuesday and land at Cape Canaveral, Florida on Thursday though it may get delayed a day or two for the engineers to detect the cause of computer system crash on the Russian side of the station.

Blast in a Kabul Bus, 35 feared killed

A bomb explosion charred a police bus into skeleton in a crowded civilian area in Kabul. 35 people are estimated to be killed or wounded in this explosion. The police academy bus was carrying several police employees when this bomb exploded.

Dr. Fazel Rahim from nearby hospital said that eighteen bodies, most of them police officers, and ten wounded have been taken to Jamhuriat Hospital. There was a lot of chaos outside the hospital where a large crowd had gathered to look for their kith and kins in the dead and injured.

The Kabul police describe this as a suicide attack by one of the Taliban fighters who got inside the bus, but no details are available as of yet on how the person got in.

“It was a very, very successful suicide attack," a Taliban commander, Mullah Hayatullah Khan, told Reuters by satellite phone. "We have plans for more successful attacks in future." “The operation was a 100% successful as we hit our target and that was police,” a Taliban spokesman told the Afghan Islamic Press.

Playing Safe: 10 Helpful Tips for Netizens

In today's digital world, everybody is dependent on computers for their personal as well as professional use – online transactions, buying, and shopping has also become a normal trend nowadays. So for all my readers, here are ten vital tips so that you remain safe while being online.

1. Install an antivirus software from a reliable supplier and do update it regularly with updates via Internet.

2. To prevent malicious hackers from connecting to your computer, install and learn the use of a personal firewall.

3. Never note down the passwords of Internet banking or shopping websites and do select one that is difficult to guess quickly.

4. Never ever open an attached file with an email from unknown source as by clicking on the attached file you can activate the virus that can harm your PC.

5. Never respond to emails that ask you to enter your personal details by clicking on a link, these may appear as coming from bank or online shop, but such companies do not usually ask for such details via mail.

6. Always remember to log out after logging into a secure site and done with the online transaction and close the browser window.

7. You should routinely check your online accounts to check for any dubious transactions and report immediately to the company if you see one.

8. Always before entering your personal details look for a closed padlock symbol at the bottom of the screen. The beginning of the site address should change from http:// to https://, which indicates that whatever details you are providing will remain confidential.

9. Always download spyware software from trusted sources to prevent the spyware from interfering with your privacy, slowing down the computer, and leaving you with a lot of pop up windows.

10. Do always keep the backup of the files that are important for you such as documents, address books, and important emails.

UN Declares 2nd October as International Day of Non-Violence

In a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and his philosophy, the United Nations has declared 2nd October - his birth anniversary, as the International Day of Non-Violence each year. Mahatma Gandhi helped India to win freedom and inspired movements for civil rights across the globe. He also preached the theory of non-violence that has got many followers in the world.

Gandhian Philosophy has found takers not only in India, but also in different parts of the world. Even it inspired the likes of Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King Jr. The resolution adopted by the 192-member body was introduced by minister of state for external affairs Anand Sharma.

Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh welcomed the UN's decision and said, "The universal relevance of Gandhiji’s message of non-violence is more important today than ever before since nations across the world continue to grapple with the threat of conflict, violence and terrorism. This is also an occasion for all of us, the people of India, to re-dedicate ourselves to the ideals and values of Mahatma Gandhi, which shall continue to be our guiding light."

Four policemen injured in the Nandigram Violence

The CPI-M and BUPC members got into a gun battle in Bhangabera under Nandigram police station on Friday in which one policeman was wounded by the gunshot and three other policemen injured along with several others. District Enforcement Branch Inspector Prabhat Sarkar, the wounded police officer, was in the near by police camp when the incident started and got the wound in the middle of assessing the situation. He was admitted to the Nandigram Hospital and then later transferred to Tamluk District Hospital, his condition is still critical.

This clash had initially started at Sonachura and then spread to Bhangabera as per the East Midnapore Superintendent of Police G. Srinivasan. He said that the situation is now under control.

TC Chief Mamata Banerjee put the whole blame on CPI (M) saying “the attack by the CPI-M had been going on for the last three months. They are hurling bombs and firing on the people at Nandigram.” She also asserted that such acts by the CPI-M is affecting the common people the most.

Meanwhile, Niranjan Sihi, chief of East Midnapore Zila Parishad notes BUPC’s involvement behind all these happenings and their planned engineering. He further clarifies that BUPC is doing this in the context of the coming elections to the civic body in Haldia and panchayat poll next year.

Rajni Mania Sweeps the Country: Sivaji Hits the Big Screen

Rajnikanth's latest Tamil movie "Sivaji" created a mania in the country. It touched the big screen on Friday with 700 prints. The type of publicity and hype the movie received is incredible. It is almost certain that the movie would break all records. It is the most expensive Indian film ever made. The total budget of the film is 80 crore. Sivaji is directed by S Shankar. AR Rehman is the music director of this much-awaited blockbuster. Sivaji is all set to become a hit in the US and and other foreign countries where is being released simultaneously.

It has become a contest between Big B vs Boss. Amitabh Bachchan's "Jhoom Barabar Jhoom" has been released on the same day. It is witnessing a tough competition from Rajnikanth's "Sivaji". This is for the first time that a movie made in regional language has created such hype and all the credit goes to Rajnikanth's charisma. Rajni is a Superstar in South India where people sacrifice everything for films and worship filmstars as gods. But there is hardly any doubt that Rajnikanth's Sivaji will make a clean sweep.

First Woman President for India likely: UPA, Left name Pratibha Patil

Rajasthan governor Pratibha Patil is all set to become the first woman President of India. After failing to impress the Left Front on the candidature of Shivraj Patil, the UPA finally projected her as its presidential candidate. She has received the support of Left Front and the BSP. Also, there is a great chance of cross voting from the opposition camp on her favor. Sonia again called the shot by selecting the right candidate for the all important post of President of India.

Pratibha has 40 years of political career and she has been the Vice Chairperson of Rajya Sabha in the past. The 72-year old Patil, a qualified lawyer from Maharashtra has a wide experience as a politician and administrator. Pratibha has been chosen as the Presidential candidate for her modesty, non-controversial track record and vast knowledge on constitutional affairs.

Team India Announced, Chandu Borde is the New Manager

After an unexpected snub from Graham Ford, the BCCI has appointed former selection committee chairman Chandu Borde (72) as the new Manager of Team India for the upcoming tour of England and Ireland. The BCCI would continue its efforts to get a new coach for Team India. The Board has also extended the contracts of fielding coach Robin Singh and bowling coach Venkatesh Prasad for one year.

The BCCI took another important decision on the players' contract issue. It decided to retain the present graded payment system for the players. The board had to bow to the demands of the senior players and decided not to fall into any controversy at this point of time.

The BCCI selection committee announced the teams for the upcoming tours. Sehwag, Munaf Patel, Irfan Pathan and Harbhajan Singh have been dropped from both the test and ODI squads. MS Dhoni has been appointed as the vice captain of the ODI squad while Sachin and Saurav made a comeback.

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