UK Home Secretary Priti Patel has signed off on the order to extradite Nirav Modi, wanted in India on fraud and money laundering charges related to the estimated USD 2 billion Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam case, senior Indian diplomatic sources in the UK said on Friday.

Modi, 50, who remains behind bars at Wandsworth Prison in south-west London, has 14 days to apply for permission to appeal against the Home Secretary's order in the High Court in London.

Back on February 25, the Westminster Magistrates' Court had concluded that the diamond merchant has a case to answer before the Indian courts, leaving the sign off on the order with the Cabinet minister.

He had allegedly perpetrated the fraud in the Punjab National Bank in collusion with his uncle Mehul Choksi.

After a two-year-long legal battle, District Judge Samuel Goozee had ruled that Modi only has a case to answer in the Indian courts but that there is no evidence to suggest he would not receive a fair trial in India.

He also dismissed the human rights concerns that Modi's medical needs would not be addressed as per several Indian government assurances.

"I am satisfied that there is evidence upon which NDM [Nirav Deepak Modi] could be convicted in relation [to] the conspiracy to defraud the PNB. A prima facie case is established," the judge noted.

A prima facie case to have been established on all counts of charges brought by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) money laundering, intimidation of witnesses and disappearance of evidence, he had said.

Under the UK Extradition Act 2003, the judge sent his findings to the Secretary of State for Home Affairs. It is the UK Cabinet minister who is authorised to order extradition under the India-UK Extradition Treaty and has two months within which to make that decision.

The CBI had registered the case on January 31, 2018 against Modi, Choksi and others including then officials of Punjab National Bank on a complaint from the Bank on the allegations that the accused had hatched a criminal conspiracy amongst themselves to defraud the public sector bbank by fraudulently issuing Letters of Undertaking.

Letters of Undertaking are a guarantee that a bank gives to banks abroad where its client approaches for credit.

The figure swelled to Rs 13,000 crore when similar frauds by companies of his uncle Mehul Choksi, an alleged co-conspirator, came to light, officials said.

Investigation showed that the accused officials of the Punjab National Bank, in conspiracy with said owners of the firms and others, had fraudulently issued a large number of LoUs to overseas banks for obtaining Buyer's credit in favour of said three firms without any sanctioned limit or cash margin and without making entries in the core system of the bank.

The first charge sheet was filed on May 14, 2018 against 25 accused including Modi. The second charge sheet was filed on December 20, 2019 against 30 accused people including the 25 chargesheeted earlier in respect of 150 outstanding fraudulent LoUs which had resulted in the wrongful loss of nearly Rs 6,805 crore to PNB.

It was also alleged that Modi in conspiracy with other accused had siphoned off the funds obtained as buyer's credit through dummy companies established by him in Dubai and Hong Kong which were shown as an exporter of pearls to three Nirav Modi firms and importer of pearl-studded jewellery from his firms.

Modi had escaped from India on January 1, 2018, before the registration of the case in CBI. A non-bailable arrest warrant was issued by the trial court against him followed by a red corner notice in June 2018 by Interpol.

He was arrested by the UK Police in London in March 2019 and his repeated applications for bail, were rejected by the Westminster Magistrates' Court and High Court, London.

After the second charge sheet was filed, additional pieces of evidence were submitted to the Court in London for the total fraud amount of Rs. 6,805 crore (approx.). In addition, a second extradition request for the offences of intimidating the witnesses and destruction of evidence was also submitted to the UK government.

In extradition requests, CBI submitted voluminous oral and documentary evidence to substantiate the charges of criminal conspiracy, cheating, criminal breach of trust, criminal misconduct by public servants, destruction of evidence and criminal intimidation of evidence.

India is a designated Part 2 country by virtue of the Extradition Act 2003, which means it is the minister who has the authority to order a requested person's extradition after considering a number of further issues.

Under the provisions of the act, the Secretary of State had to consider the possible imposition of the death penalty, in which case extradition cannot be ordered; the rule of specialty, which prohibits a person being dealt with in the requesting state for matters other than those referenced in the extradition request; and whether or not the person was in the UK following extradition from another state, in which case that states permission must be obtained before extraditing to a third state.

If these factors do not prevent extradition, the minister had two months within which to sign off on Judge Goozee's February 25 order. The Home Secretary's order rarely goes against the court's conclusions, as she has to consider only these very narrow bars to extradition which did not apply in Nirav's case.

However, as witnessed in the extradition case of former Kingfisher Airlines chief Vijay Mallya&nbsp;who remains on bail in the UK while a confidential&nbsp;matter, believed to relate to an asylum request, is resolved there is still some way to go before Nirav can be formally moved from Wandsworth Prison in London to Barrack 12 Arthur Road Jail in Mumbai and face trial in India.

The judge had informed Nirav Modi of his right to seek an appeal in the High Court and has up to 14 days to make that application after the Home Secretary makes her decision known. Any appeal, if granted, will be heard at the Administrative Division of the High Court in London.

It is also possible to appeal to the UK Supreme Court but this is only possible if the High Court certifies that the appeal involves a point of law of general public importance, and either the High Court or the Supreme Court gives leave for the appeal to be made.

Nirav's legal team did not immediately confirm if he intends to appeal against the order and he will remain behind bars at Wandsworth Prison on judicial remand until the next stage in the legal process.&nbsp;

UK Home Secretary Priti Patel has signed off on the order to extradite Nirav Modi, wanted in India on fraud and money laundering charges related to the estimated USD 2 billion Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam case, senior Indian diplomatic sources in the UK said on Friday.

UK Home Secretary Priti Patel has signed off on the order to extradite Nirav Modi, wanted in India on fraud and money laundering charges related to the estimated USD 2 billion Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam case, senior Indian diplomatic sources in the UK said on Friday. Modi, 50, who remains behind bars at Wandsworth Prison in south-west London, has 14 days to apply for permission to appeal against the Home Secretary's order in the High Court in London. Back on February 25, the Westminster Magistrates' Court had concluded that the diamond merchant has a case to answer before the Indian courts, leaving the sign off on the order with the Cabinet minister. He had allegedly perpetrated the fraud in the Punjab National Bank in collusion with his uncle Mehul Choksi. After a two-year-long legal battle, District Judge Samuel Goozee had ruled that Modi only has a case to answer in the Indian courts but that there is no evidence to suggest he would not receive a fair trial in India. He also dismissed the human rights concerns that Modi's medical needs would not be addressed as per several Indian government assurances. "I am satisfied that there is evidence upon which NDM [Nirav Deepak Modi] could be convicted in relation [to] the conspiracy to defraud the PNB. A prima facie case is established," the judge noted. A prima facie case to have been established on all counts of charges brought by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) money laundering, intimidation of witnesses and disappearance of evidence, he had said. Under the UK Extradition Act 2003, the judge sent his findings to the Secretary of State for Home Affairs. It is the UK Cabinet minister who is authorised to order extradition under the India-UK Extradition Treaty and has two months within which to make that decision. The CBI had registered the case on January 31, 2018 against Modi, Choksi and others including then officials of Punjab National Bank on a complaint from the Bank on the allegations that the accused had hatched a criminal conspiracy amongst themselves to defraud the public sector bbank by fraudulently issuing Letters of Undertaking. Letters of Undertaking are a guarantee that a bank gives to banks abroad where its client approaches for credit. The figure swelled to Rs 13,000 crore when similar frauds by companies of his uncle Mehul Choksi, an alleged co-conspirator, came to light, officials said. Investigation showed that the accused officials of the Punjab National Bank, in conspiracy with said owners of the firms and others, had fraudulently issued a large number of LoUs to overseas banks for obtaining Buyer's credit in favour of said three firms without any sanctioned limit or cash margin and without making entries in the core system of the bank. The first charge sheet was filed on May 14, 2018 against 25 accused including Modi. The second charge sheet was filed on December 20, 2019 against 30 accused people including the 25 chargesheeted earlier in respect of 150 outstanding fraudulent LoUs which had resulted in the wrongful loss of nearly Rs 6,805 crore to PNB. It was also alleged that Modi in conspiracy with other accused had siphoned off the funds obtained as buyer's credit through dummy companies established by him in Dubai and Hong Kong which were shown as an exporter of pearls to three Nirav Modi firms and importer of pearl-studded jewellery from his firms. Modi had escaped from India on January 1, 2018, before the registration of the case in CBI. A non-bailable arrest warrant was issued by the trial court against him followed by a red corner notice in June 2018 by Interpol. He was arrested by the UK Police in London in March 2019 and his repeated applications for bail, were rejected by the Westminster Magistrates' Court and High Court, London. After the second charge sheet was filed, additional pieces of evidence were submitted to the Court in London for the total fraud amount of Rs. 6,805 crore (approx.). In addition, a second extradition request for the offences of intimidating the witnesses and destruction of evidence was also submitted to the UK government. In extradition requests, CBI submitted voluminous oral and documentary evidence to substantiate the charges of criminal conspiracy, cheating, criminal breach of trust, criminal misconduct by public servants, destruction of evidence and criminal intimidation of evidence. India is a designated Part 2 country by virtue of the Extradition Act 2003, which means it is the minister who has the authority to order a requested person's extradition after considering a number of further issues. Under the provisions of the act, the Secretary of State had to consider the possible imposition of the death penalty, in which case extradition cannot be ordered; the rule of specialty, which prohibits a person being dealt with in the requesting state for matters other than those referenced in the extradition request; and whether or not the person was in the UK following extradition from another state, in which case that states permission must be obtained before extraditing to a third state. If these factors do not prevent extradition, the minister had two months within which to sign off on Judge Goozee's February 25 order. The Home Secretary's order rarely goes against the court's conclusions, as she has to consider only these very narrow bars to extradition which did not apply in Nirav's case. However, as witnessed in the extradition case of former Kingfisher Airlines chief Vijay Mallya who remains on bail in the UK while a confidential matter, believed to relate to an asylum request, is resolved there is still some way to go before Nirav can be formally moved from Wandsworth Prison in London to Barrack 12 Arthur Road Jail in Mumbai and face trial in India. The judge had informed Nirav Modi of his right to seek an appeal in the High Court and has up to 14 days to make that application after the Home Secretary makes her decision known. Any appeal, if granted, will be heard at the Administrative Division of the High Court in London. It is also possible to appeal to the UK Supreme Court but this is only possible if the High Court certifies that the appeal involves a point of law of general public importance, and either the High Court or the Supreme Court gives leave for the appeal to be made. Nirav's legal team did not immediately confirm if he intends to appeal against the order and he will remain behind bars at Wandsworth Prison on judicial remand until the next stage in the legal process.

UK home secretary approves fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi's extradition to India 

Debris from missiles fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels into Saudi Arabia caused a small fire on a university campus in the kingdom's south, the Riyadh-led military coalition operating in Yemen said.

Saudi air defence intercepted five ballistic missiles and four drones deployed by Yemeni rebels on Wednesday night and Thursday morning, according to the coalition.&nbsp;

The missiles were fired and drones sent from Yemen's Sa'ada province, a rebel stronghold in the north of the country, toward the Saudi city of Jizan, said coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki.

"Debris fell on the campus of Jizan University, causing a small fire which was brought under control and there were no casualties," the spokesman said, according to the official Saudi news agency SPA.&nbsp;

Maliki condemned the escalating Huthi air campaign against "civilian targets", warning that these "hostile acts constitute war crimes".&nbsp;

A Houthi spokesman in the northern capital of Sanaa said that 11 missiles and drones had targeted facilities belonging to the Saudi oil giant Aramco.

Patriot anti-missile batteries and other "sensitive facilities" were also targeted by the Huthis in Jizan, a rebel military spokesman said according to the Huthis' Al-Masirah television.

On Monday, the Huthis claimed to have carried out other attacks against Saudi Arabia, saying they had launched 17 drones and missiles at various targets including Aramco facilities.&nbsp;

Saudi authorities did not confirm any attacks on oil facilities at the time. However, the coalition indicated that six drones launched from Yemen had been intercepted, without mentioning any casualties.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia leads a military coalition that intervened in the Yemen conflict in 2015, to support the the internationally recognised government.

It has reported numerous attacks by the rebels on Aramco facilities, airports and other civilian targets in recent months.&nbsp;

Debris from missiles fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels into Saudi Arabia caused a small fire on a university campus in the kingdom's south, the Riyadh-led military coalition operating in Yemen said.

Debris from missiles fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels into Saudi Arabia caused a small fire on a university campus in the kingdom's south, the Riyadh-led military coalition operating in Yemen said. Saudi air defence intercepted five ballistic missiles and four drones deployed by Yemeni rebels on Wednesday night and Thursday morning, according to the coalition. The missiles were fired and drones sent from Yemen's Sa'ada province, a rebel stronghold in the north of the country, toward the Saudi city of Jizan, said coalition spokesman Turki al-Maliki. "Debris fell on the campus of Jizan University, causing a small fire which was brought under control and there were no casualties," the spokesman said, according to the official Saudi news agency SPA. Maliki condemned the escalating Huthi air campaign against "civilian targets", warning that these "hostile acts constitute war crimes". A Houthi spokesman in the northern capital of Sanaa said that 11 missiles and drones had targeted facilities belonging to the Saudi oil giant Aramco. Patriot anti-missile batteries and other "sensitive facilities" were also targeted by the Huthis in Jizan, a rebel military spokesman said according to the Huthis' Al-Masirah television. On Monday, the Huthis claimed to have carried out other attacks against Saudi Arabia, saying they had launched 17 drones and missiles at various targets including Aramco facilities. Saudi authorities did not confirm any attacks on oil facilities at the time. However, the coalition indicated that six drones launched from Yemen had been intercepted, without mentioning any casualties. Saudi Arabia leads a military coalition that intervened in the Yemen conflict in 2015, to support the the internationally recognised government. It has reported numerous attacks by the rebels on Aramco facilities, airports and other civilian targets in recent months.

Houthi missile debris sparks fire at Saudi university

Scientists on Thursday confirmed the first clinical evidence of drug-resistant mutations of the parasite that leads to malaria making inroads in Africa.&nbsp;

There have been concerns for long about the emergence of such mutations across the continent which makes up for over 90 per cent of malaria deaths worldwide in 2019.&nbsp;

A new report published in The Lancet has confirmed these fears.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/science/sea-snail-venom-could-lead-to-new-treatments-for-severe-malaria-365446">Sea snail venom could lead to new treatments for severe Malaria</a>

According to the trials, the disease persisted longer in children who were receiving standard treatment for malaria if they were infected with mutant strains of the parasite.&nbsp;

Still, there is high efficacy of Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs), but scientists insist on an "urgent need" for more monitoring in Rwanda, where the study was based as well in other neighbouring nations.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/gsk-to-move-malaria-vaccine-production-to-indias-bharat-biotech-359722">GSK to move malaria vaccine production to India's Bharat Biotech</a>

"Our study shows that resistant isolates are starting to become more common," lead author Aline Uwimana, a researcher at the Rwanda Biomedical Centre in Kigali was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

ACT's, introduced in the early 2000s, is one of the most common and widely used treatments for malaria.&nbsp;

In this treatment, the artemisinin component clears most of the pathogens from the infected body within three days and a long-acting partner drug kills the rest of the parasites.&nbsp;

If the artemisinin component doesn't work within three days, it means that the parasites have developed resistance to this.&nbsp;

Evidence from the Mekong region has proved that once artemisinin resistance becomes prevalent, resistance to the partner drug generally follows, causing the failure of ACT treatment.&nbsp;

(With agency inputs)

Scientists on Thursday confirmed the first clinical evidence of drug-resistant mutations of the parasite that leads to malaria making inroads in Africa. There have been concerns for long about the emergence of such mutations across the continent which makes up for over 90 per cent of malaria deaths worldwide in 2019.

Scientists on Thursday confirmed the first clinical evidence of drug-resistant mutations of the parasite that leads to malaria making inroads in Africa. There have been concerns for long about the emergence of such mutations across the continent which makes up for over 90 per cent of malaria deaths worldwide in 2019. A new report published in The Lancet has confirmed these fears. Also read | Sea snail venom could lead to new treatments for severe Malaria According to the trials, the disease persisted longer in children who were receiving standard treatment for malaria if they were infected with mutant strains of the parasite. Still, there is high efficacy of Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs), but scientists insist on an "urgent need" for more monitoring in Rwanda, where the study was based as well in other neighbouring nations. Also read | GSK to move malaria vaccine production to India's Bharat Biotech "Our study shows that resistant isolates are starting to become more common," lead author Aline Uwimana, a researcher at the Rwanda Biomedical Centre in Kigali was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. ACT's, introduced in the early 2000s, is one of the most common and widely used treatments for malaria. In this treatment, the artemisinin component clears most of the pathogens from the infected body within three days and a long-acting partner drug kills the rest of the parasites. If the artemisinin component doesn't work within three days, it means that the parasites have developed resistance to this. Evidence from the Mekong region has proved that once artemisinin resistance becomes prevalent, resistance to the partner drug generally follows, causing the failure of ACT treatment. (With agency inputs)

Drug-resistant malaria making inroads in Africa: Study

Google has announced a new "Timelapse" feature for Google Earth in which people can see four decades of planetary change.&nbsp;

For doing this, Google has used 24 million satellite photos from the last 37 years.&nbsp;

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"Our planet has seen rapid environmental change in the past half-century -- more than any other point in human history. The new Timelapse feature in Google Earth compiles 24 million satellite photos from the past 37 years into an interactive 4D experience," Google CEO Sundar Pichai said on Thursday as quoted by news agency PTI.&nbsp;

"For the first time, we'll put a vivid depiction of our rapidly changing planet into the hands of everyone, everywhere," Rebecca Moore director of Google Earth, Earth Engine, and outreach said in a news conference.

She called this the biggest update to Google Earth since 2017 and with this people can see the Earth in a completely new dimension.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-ai-chief-samy-bengio-resigns-over-colleagues-firing-and-racial-discrimination-375828">Google AI chief Samy Bengio resigns over colleagues' firing and racial discrimination</a>

Timelapse, she said, was made possible due to the US government and European Union commitments to open and accessible data.&nbsp;

NASA, US Geological Survey, European Commission, and the European Space Agency, provided Google Earth with the images.&nbsp;

"We like to say if Google maps is about finding your way, Google Earth has been about getting lost and we've focused on creating the most realistic digital representation of the planet that's ever been put into the hands of the public with features that entertain people and enlighten people," the Google Earth director said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Google has announced a new "Timelapse" feature for Google Earth in which people can see four decades of planetary change. For doing this, Google has used 24 million satellite photos from the last 37 years.

Google has announced a new "Timelapse" feature for Google Earth in which people can see four decades of planetary change. For doing this, Google has used 24 million satellite photos from the last 37 years. Also read | Instagram launches experiment to hide 'likes' "Our planet has seen rapid environmental change in the past half-century -- more than any other point in human history. The new Timelapse feature in Google Earth compiles 24 million satellite photos from the past 37 years into an interactive 4D experience," Google CEO Sundar Pichai said on Thursday as quoted by news agency PTI. "For the first time, we'll put a vivid depiction of our rapidly changing planet into the hands of everyone, everywhere," Rebecca Moore director of Google Earth, Earth Engine, and outreach said in a news conference. She called this the biggest update to Google Earth since 2017 and with this people can see the Earth in a completely new dimension. Also read | Google AI chief Samy Bengio resigns over colleagues' firing and racial discrimination Timelapse, she said, was made possible due to the US government and European Union commitments to open and accessible data. NASA, US Geological Survey, European Commission, and the European Space Agency, provided Google Earth with the images. "We like to say if Google maps is about finding your way, Google Earth has been about getting lost and we've focused on creating the most realistic digital representation of the planet that's ever been put into the hands of the public with features that entertain people and enlighten people," the Google Earth director said. (With inputs from agencies)

Now, experience 4 decades of planetary changes as Google Earth unveils 'Timelapse' feature

New Zealand has announced a number of proposals that intend to outlaw smoking for the next generation and making the nation smoke-free by 2025.&nbsp;

These plans include gradually increasing the legal smoking age, which could lead to a complete ban on the cigarettes and tobacco products sale to people born after 2004, reports The Guardian.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/science/obesity-killed-more-than-smoking-did-study-363567">Obesity killed more than smoking did: Study</a>

Considerations are also being made to greatly reduce the level of nicotine allowed in tobacco products, set a minimum price for tobacco, and restrict places where these products are sold.&nbsp;

"We need a new approach," Associate Health Minister Dr Ayesha Verrall said on Thursday, as she announced the proposals.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/trying-to-quit-smoking-according-to-a-review-heres-what-works-the-best-335250">Trying to quit smoking? According to a review, here's what works the best</a>

"About 4,500 New Zealanders die every year from tobacco, and we need to make accelerated progress to be able to reach that goal [of Smokefree 2025]. Business-as-usual without a tobacco control program won't get us there."

Several public health organisations praised these proposals. &nbsp;

"This proposal goes beyond assisting people to quit," Cancer Society chief executive Lucy Elwood in a statement said.&nbsp;

She highlighted that the number of tobacco retailers was four times more in low-income communities, where smoking rates were at their maximum.&nbsp;

"These glaring inequities are why we need to protect future generations from the harms of tobacco," Elwood said.&nbsp;

New Zealand has announced a number of proposals that intend to outlaw smoking for the next generation and making the nation smoke-free by 2025. These plans include gradually increasing the legal smoking age, which could lead to a complete ban on the cigarettes and tobacco products sale to people born after 2004, reports The Guardian.

New Zealand has announced a number of proposals that intend to outlaw smoking for the next generation and making the nation smoke-free by 2025. These plans include gradually increasing the legal smoking age, which could lead to a complete ban on the cigarettes and tobacco products sale to people born after 2004, reports The Guardian. Also read | Obesity killed more than smoking did: Study Considerations are also being made to greatly reduce the level of nicotine allowed in tobacco products, set a minimum price for tobacco, and restrict places where these products are sold. "We need a new approach," Associate Health Minister Dr Ayesha Verrall said on Thursday, as she announced the proposals. Also read | Trying to quit smoking? According to a review, here's what works the best "About 4,500 New Zealanders die every year from tobacco, and we need to make accelerated progress to be able to reach that goal [of Smokefree 2025]. Business-as-usual without a tobacco control program won't get us there." Several public health organisations praised these proposals. "This proposal goes beyond assisting people to quit," Cancer Society chief executive Lucy Elwood in a statement said. She highlighted that the number of tobacco retailers was four times more in low-income communities, where smoking rates were at their maximum. "These glaring inequities are why we need to protect future generations from the harms of tobacco," Elwood said.

No smoking: New Zealand announces proposals to make the nation smoke-free by 2025

India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>numbers are going from bad to worse as daily new cases have crossed the 180,000-mark.

There has been a talk of new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccines</a>&nbsp;being introduced and there's a lot of confusion.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-evolving-vaccine-strategy-377625/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

There are several questions that are brewing in one's mind when it comes to India's vaccination drive.&nbsp;

We'll try to answer some of these doubts.

In pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-indian-cities-states-fighting-coronavirus-as-concerns-mount-377581">How Indian cities, states fighting coronavirus as concerns mount</a>

In India, four vaccines could see rapid approval: Johnson &amp; Johnson, Zydus Cadila, Serum Institute's Novavax and a nasal vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech.

Some foreign vaccines are also lined up, with the likes of Pfizer and Moderna.

But, most of these foreign companies have signed commercial contracts elsewhere and they must supply jabs to the US and European Union first.

<h2>Is India ready to roll out Pfizer and Moderna?</h2>

They are both mRNA vaccines, meaning they are stored in sub-zero temperatures.

But most facilities in India have a capacity between 2 and 8-degree Celsius.

This is enough for Covishield, Covaxin and Sputnik, but not Moderna and Pfizer.

We don't have storage facilities so more vaccine approvals do not mean more doses.

Take for instance, Sputnik V.&nbsp;

Earlier, we were told India has the capacity to produce 850 million doses, but now that number has been revised.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-evolving-vaccine-strategy-377625">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-evolving-vaccine-strategy-377625/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Russian officials are looking at just 50 million doses by the end of summer.

And this isn't just a problem in India. Globally, the vaccine arithmetic is all over the place.

As many as 14 vaccines have been approved around the world and their projected output is 21 billion doses.

Out of this, 11.2 billion have already been purchased, mostly by the global North.

Just 3.56 billion are available for the COVAX initiative, a global vaccine alliance.&nbsp;

The cost too has a massive range, from $2 to $44.&nbsp;

More than half the doses have been purchased by around 20 per cent of the population.

Doctors say you need just two shots, but some countries have purchased enough doses for three or four shots.

As a result, vaccine makers are now swamped with orders.

Their backlogs could run into months, possibly years.

AstraZeneca is the top dog as more than three billion doses of the vaccine have been ordered so far.

Novavax is second on the list with just over 1.4 billion orders.

It is followed by Pfizer, Moderna, Sputnik and J&amp;J.

But Johnson &amp; Johnson has hit a roadblock as its vaccine is causing serious blood clots.

So the US and EU have paused the rollout, putting more pressure on the remaining jabs.

Even in India, the pharmacy of the world, neither Serum Institute nor Bharat Biotech is producing at full capacity, because they don't think it is profitable enough.

The government was first buying Covishield at 2.8 dollars, and now that price tag has been driven down to 2 dollars.

So the producers don't want to invest, they feel they have been dealt a bad hand.

Pharma companies want the government to infuse funds, but there is no clarity on whether this request will be granted.

If any country can beat this shortage, it is India.

Every year, India produces 8.3 billion doses of vaccines for different diseases, not just the coronavirus.

But if the need arises, this capacity can be tweaked.

But, there is a trade-off.

More Covid-19 vaccines mean lesser polio, measles vaccines, something that could hurt the country in the long run.

So the most prudent option appears to be the government's help.

Public funds must be pumped into vaccine production.

Take a look at the global vaccine rollout, India has given more than 111 million shots, the US, 192 million.

In absolute numbers, this is impressive because India started its vaccination drive a month later than US.&nbsp;

But in a population of 1.3 billion, it's like a drop in the ocean.

<h2>The big takeaways</h2>

<ul>
	<li>The world simply doesn't have enough doses.</li>
	<li>The ones available have been scooped up by the rich states.</li>
	<li>Vaccine makers are booking profits but they are dealing with huge backlogs.</li>
	<li>And hysteria over side effects is trimming our already small basket of options.</li>
</ul>

So our one piece of advice is: Wear a mask, keep social distancing and remember that the best vaccine is the one you get first.

India's coronavirus numbers are going from bad to worse as daily new cases have crossed the 180,000-mark. There has been a talk of new vaccines being introduced and there's a lot of confusion.

India's coronavirus numbers are going from bad to worse as daily new cases have crossed the 180,000-mark. There has been a talk of new vaccines being introduced and there's a lot of confusion. There are several questions that are brewing in one's mind when it comes to India's vaccination drive. We'll try to answer some of these doubts. In pics | How Indian cities, states fighting coronavirus as concerns mount In India, four vaccines could see rapid approval: Johnson & Johnson, Zydus Cadila, Serum Institute's Novavax and a nasal vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech. Some foreign vaccines are also lined up, with the likes of Pfizer and Moderna. But, most of these foreign companies have signed commercial contracts elsewhere and they must supply jabs to the US and European Union first. Is India ready to roll out Pfizer and Moderna? They are both mRNA vaccines, meaning they are stored in sub-zero temperatures. But most facilities in India have a capacity between 2 and 8-degree Celsius. This is enough for Covishield, Covaxin and Sputnik, but not Moderna and Pfizer. We don't have storage facilities so more vaccine approvals do not mean more doses. Take for instance, Sputnik V. Earlier, we were told India has the capacity to produce 850 million doses, but now that number has been revised. Watch | Russian officials are looking at just 50 million doses by the end of summer. And this isn't just a problem in India. Globally, the vaccine arithmetic is all over the place. As many as 14 vaccines have been approved around the world and their projected output is 21 billion doses. Out of this, 11.2 billion have already been purchased, mostly by the global North. Just 3.56 billion are available for the COVAX initiative, a global vaccine alliance. The cost too has a massive range, from $2 to $44. More than half the doses have been purchased by around 20 per cent of the population. Doctors say you need just two shots, but some countries have purchased enough doses for three or four shots. As a result, vaccine makers are now swamped with orders. Their backlogs could run into months, possibly years. AstraZeneca is the top dog as more than three billion doses of the vaccine have been ordered so far. Novavax is second on the list with just over 1.4 billion orders. It is followed by Pfizer, Moderna, Sputnik and J&J. But Johnson & Johnson has hit a roadblock as its vaccine is causing serious blood clots. So the US and EU have paused the rollout, putting more pressure on the remaining jabs. Even in India, the pharmacy of the world, neither Serum Institute nor Bharat Biotech is producing at full capacity, because they don't think it is profitable enough. The government was first buying Covishield at 2.8 dollars, and now that price tag has been driven down to 2 dollars. So the producers don't want to invest, they feel they have been dealt a bad hand. Pharma companies want the government to infuse funds, but there is no clarity on whether this request will be granted. If any country can beat this shortage, it is India. Every year, India produces 8.3 billion doses of vaccines for different diseases, not just the coronavirus. But if the need arises, this capacity can be tweaked. But, there is a trade-off. More Covid-19 vaccines mean lesser polio, measles vaccines, something that could hurt the country in the long run. So the most prudent option appears to be the government's help. Public funds must be pumped into vaccine production. Take a look at the global vaccine rollout, India has given more than 111 million shots, the US, 192 million. In absolute numbers, this is impressive because India started its vaccination drive a month later than US. But in a population of 1.3 billion, it's like a drop in the ocean. The big takeaways The world simply doesn't have enough doses. The ones available have been scooped up by the rich states. Vaccine makers are booking profits but they are dealing with huge backlogs. And hysteria over side effects is trimming our already small basket of options. So our one piece of advice is: Wear a mask, keep social distancing and remember that the best vaccine is the one you get first.

As India intensifies fight against Covid-19, will vaccine shortage complicate things?

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will visit India from April 25 and is set to agree a 'Roadmap 2030' for re-energised India-UK relations across trade and investment and climate action, the Indian High Commission in London said on Thursday.

Earlier, Downing Street had confirmed that due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis in India, Johnson has decided to shorten the length of his planned visit with the bulk of the programme now set to take place during the course of Monday, April 26.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-boris-johnson-shortens-india-visit-due-to-covid-19-377692/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

The visit, previously postponed from a Republic Day tour in January, is the first major bilateral visit for Johnson outside Europe since the UK general election in December 2019 and the conclusion of the Brexit transition period at the end of December 2020.

"The visit of PM Johnson is expected to positively transform the partnership across the wide-spectrum of issues and areas relating to Defence and Security, the Indo-Pacific and Western Indian Ocean Region (WIOR), Trade and Investments, Health care, Climate Change and people-to-people connect," the High Commission of India in London said.

"India and UK are set to agree on a 'Roadmap 2030' for future relations. The 2030 vision is for revitalised and dynamic connect between people; re-energised trade, investment and technological collaboration; enhanced defence and security cooperation and closer engagement on regional issues including the Indian Ocean Region and the Indo-Pacific. The India-UK Partnership in Climate Action, clean energy and health care is geared for mutual benefit and a better world,"&nbsp;it adds.

As part of the UK's post-Brexit Global Britain engagement as a non-member of the European Union (EU), all eyes have been on a proposed Enhanced Trade Partnership (ETP) with India which will pave the way for a full-fledged Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in the future.

The ETP was expected to take firm shape during Johnson's visit this month but it remains to be seen how that progresses given the scaled-back programme.

"India-UK successful collaboration in the COVID-19 mitigation efforts over the last year has emerged as the silver lining in the bilateral relationship. Building upon the success achieved in the joint development, manufacture and distribution of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, the visit will provide an opportunity to further consolidate the India-UK joint partnership in addressing future pandemics through health infrastructure development, joint investment in research and development of vaccines, swifter exchanges of healthcare professionals and strengthening existing institutional links/partnerships in the health sector,"&nbsp;the Indian High Commission said.

The last bilateral visit by a British Prime Minister to India took place in November 2016 when Theresa May met Prime Minister Narendra Modi for talks, a visit widely seen as unsuccessful largely from the point of view of Britain's perceived unwelcome visa stance towards Indian students and professionals at the time.

Johnson's visit, which has been repeatedly hit by COVID-19 pandemic constraints, is by contrast expected to deliver a "streamlined and liberalised regime" for the flow of people between the two countries.

Downing Street is yet to reveal a detailed itinerary of Johnson's truncated agenda but confirmed on Wednesday that it will include a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi and high-level ministerial as well as business talks.

"This programme will be focused on high level discussions with the Indian government and Indian business leaders. We'll set out more details in due course, but the visit will include a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi," Johnson's spokesperson at 10 Downing Street said.

The spokesperson said the Prime Minister took the decision to reduce the length of the visit to a shorter programme in New Delhi in light of the COVID situation in India and following discussions with the Indian government.

"As with all the Prime Minister's visits, his trip to India will prioritise the safety of those involved. All elements of the visit will be Covid secure,"&nbsp;the spokesperson said.

The visit comes in the wake of the UK's foreign policy vision for an Indo-Pacific tilt as part of its 'once-in-a-generation'&nbsp;Integrated Review released last month, with the India visit highlighted as a central plank of that strategy during its launch in the House of Commons.&nbsp;

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will visit India from April 25 and is set to agree a 'Roadmap 2030' for re-energised India-UK relations across trade and investment and climate action, the Indian High Commission in London said on Thursday.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will visit India from April 25 and is set to agree a 'Roadmap 2030' for re-energised India-UK relations across trade and investment and climate action, the Indian High Commission in London said on Thursday. Earlier, Downing Street had confirmed that due to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis in India, Johnson has decided to shorten the length of his planned visit with the bulk of the programme now set to take place during the course of Monday, April 26. Watch | The visit, previously postponed from a Republic Day tour in January, is the first major bilateral visit for Johnson outside Europe since the UK general election in December 2019 and the conclusion of the Brexit transition period at the end of December 2020. "The visit of PM Johnson is expected to positively transform the partnership across the wide-spectrum of issues and areas relating to Defence and Security, the Indo-Pacific and Western Indian Ocean Region (WIOR), Trade and Investments, Health care, Climate Change and people-to-people connect," the High Commission of India in London said. "India and UK are set to agree on a 'Roadmap 2030' for future relations. The 2030 vision is for revitalised and dynamic connect between people; re-energised trade, investment and technological collaboration; enhanced defence and security cooperation and closer engagement on regional issues including the Indian Ocean Region and the Indo-Pacific. The India-UK Partnership in Climate Action, clean energy and health care is geared for mutual benefit and a better world," it adds. As part of the UK's post-Brexit Global Britain engagement as a non-member of the European Union (EU), all eyes have been on a proposed Enhanced Trade Partnership (ETP) with India which will pave the way for a full-fledged Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in the future. The ETP was expected to take firm shape during Johnson's visit this month but it remains to be seen how that progresses given the scaled-back programme. "India-UK successful collaboration in the COVID-19 mitigation efforts over the last year has emerged as the silver lining in the bilateral relationship. Building upon the success achieved in the joint development, manufacture and distribution of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, the visit will provide an opportunity to further consolidate the India-UK joint partnership in addressing future pandemics through health infrastructure development, joint investment in research and development of vaccines, swifter exchanges of healthcare professionals and strengthening existing institutional links/partnerships in the health sector," the Indian High Commission said. The last bilateral visit by a British Prime Minister to India took place in November 2016 when Theresa May met Prime Minister Narendra Modi for talks, a visit widely seen as unsuccessful largely from the point of view of Britain's perceived unwelcome visa stance towards Indian students and professionals at the time. Johnson's visit, which has been repeatedly hit by COVID-19 pandemic constraints, is by contrast expected to deliver a "streamlined and liberalised regime" for the flow of people between the two countries. Downing Street is yet to reveal a detailed itinerary of Johnson's truncated agenda but confirmed on Wednesday that it will include a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi and high-level ministerial as well as business talks. "This programme will be focused on high level discussions with the Indian government and Indian business leaders. We'll set out more details in due course, but the visit will include a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi," Johnson's spokesperson at 10 Downing Street said. The spokesperson said the Prime Minister took the decision to reduce the length of the visit to a shorter programme in New Delhi in light of the COVID situation in India and following discussions with the Indian government. "As with all the Prime Minister's visits, his trip to India will prioritise the safety of those involved. All elements of the visit will be Covid secure," the spokesperson said. The visit comes in the wake of the UK's foreign policy vision for an Indo-Pacific tilt as part of its 'once-in-a-generation' Integrated Review released last month, with the India visit highlighted as a central plank of that strategy during its launch in the House of Commons.

Boris Johnson's India visit to finalise 'Roadmap 2030' for India-UK ties 

Delhi recorded 16,699 fresh COVID-19 cases with a sharp rise in the positivity rate to over 20 per cent, and 112 fatalities on Thursday, according to data shared by the health department here.

While the number of positive cases was lower than on Wednesday, it was because of fewer tests conducted.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/covid-19-your-guide-to-new-symptoms-377765/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The 16,699 new cases came out of 82,569 tests done on Wednesday, relatively less than the over 1.08 lakh examinations done on the previous day.

As per the latest bulletin, the positivity rate stands at 20.22 per cent, the highest till date in Delhi, while the death toll recorded so far is 11,652.

The national capital registered 17,282 new infections on Wednesday, its highest single-day spike till date. The number of cases has been on an upward spiral in the last few days.

The highest single-day spike in Delhi till the third wave of the pandemic -- 8,593 cases -- was reported on November 11 in 2020, while on November 18, the city had recorded 131 COVID-19 deaths, the highest single-day fatality count so far.

The positivity rate mid-November last year had stood above 15 per cent.

Battling the fourth wave of the coronavirus pandemic, Delhi has left financial capital Mumbai far behind in the daily tally of cases, becoming the worst-affected city in the country.

On Wednesday, the positivity rate was 15.92 per cent.

A total of 82,569 tests, 59,401 RT-PCR and 23,168 rapid antigen were conducted in the city on Tuesday, the latest health bulletin showed.

The number of cumulative cases on Thursday stood at 7,84,137. Over 7.18 lakh patients have recovered from the virus.

The number of active cases has increased to 54,309 from 50,736 a day before, as per the bulletin.

The number of people under home-isolation increased to 26,974 from 24,155 on Wednesday while the number of containment zones mounted to 8,661 from 7,598 a day before, the bulletin said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Delhi recorded 16,699 fresh COVID-19 cases with a sharp rise in the positivity rate to over 20 per cent, and 112 fatalities on Thursday, according to data shared by the health department here.

Delhi recorded 16,699 fresh COVID-19 cases with a sharp rise in the positivity rate to over 20 per cent, and 112 fatalities on Thursday, according to data shared by the health department here. While the number of positive cases was lower than on Wednesday, it was because of fewer tests conducted. Watch | The 16,699 new cases came out of 82,569 tests done on Wednesday, relatively less than the over 1.08 lakh examinations done on the previous day. As per the latest bulletin, the positivity rate stands at 20.22 per cent, the highest till date in Delhi, while the death toll recorded so far is 11,652. The national capital registered 17,282 new infections on Wednesday, its highest single-day spike till date. The number of cases has been on an upward spiral in the last few days. The highest single-day spike in Delhi till the third wave of the pandemic -- 8,593 cases -- was reported on November 11 in 2020, while on November 18, the city had recorded 131 COVID-19 deaths, the highest single-day fatality count so far. The positivity rate mid-November last year had stood above 15 per cent. Battling the fourth wave of the coronavirus pandemic, Delhi has left financial capital Mumbai far behind in the daily tally of cases, becoming the worst-affected city in the country. On Wednesday, the positivity rate was 15.92 per cent. A total of 82,569 tests, 59,401 RT-PCR and 23,168 rapid antigen were conducted in the city on Tuesday, the latest health bulletin showed. The number of cumulative cases on Thursday stood at 7,84,137. Over 7.18 lakh patients have recovered from the virus. The number of active cases has increased to 54,309 from 50,736 a day before, as per the bulletin. The number of people under home-isolation increased to 26,974 from 24,155 on Wednesday while the number of containment zones mounted to 8,661 from 7,598 a day before, the bulletin said.

Delhi records 16,699 new COVID-19 cases, 112 deaths

Nepal's Health Ministry on Thursday dismissed media reports that some Indian businessmen have received Chinese vaccines against the coronavirus in Kathmandu to be eligible for travelling to China.

Some media reports claimed that dozens of Indian businessmen flew from New Delhi to Kathmandu just to get the Chinese vaccine after Beijing made it mandatory for those wishing to visit China for business or study purposes to get vaccinated with the Chinese vaccines.

China has donated 800,000 doses of vaccines to Nepal.

There is no possibility of Indian businessmen getting the Chinese vaccines in Nepal as those wishing to get vaccinated must produce their identity before receiving the jab, said Ganesh Shrivastav, information officer at the Ministry of Health and Population.

"We have been regularly maintaining the record of those receiving vaccines against COVID-19, so there is no possibility of someone getting vaccinated without disclosing their identity,"&nbsp;he told PTI.

Srivastav said that he has clarified the issue to Indian authorities.&nbsp;

Nepal's Health Ministry on Thursday dismissed media reports that some Indian businessmen have received Chinese vaccines against the coronavirus in Kathmandu to be eligible for travelling to China.

Nepal's Health Ministry on Thursday dismissed media reports that some Indian businessmen have received Chinese vaccines against the coronavirus in Kathmandu to be eligible for travelling to China. Some media reports claimed that dozens of Indian businessmen flew from New Delhi to Kathmandu just to get the Chinese vaccine after Beijing made it mandatory for those wishing to visit China for business or study purposes to get vaccinated with the Chinese vaccines. China has donated 800,000 doses of vaccines to Nepal. There is no possibility of Indian businessmen getting the Chinese vaccines in Nepal as those wishing to get vaccinated must produce their identity before receiving the jab, said Ganesh Shrivastav, information officer at the Ministry of Health and Population. "We have been regularly maintaining the record of those receiving vaccines against COVID-19, so there is no possibility of someone getting vaccinated without disclosing their identity," he told PTI. Srivastav said that he has clarified the issue to Indian authorities.

Nepal rejects reports of Indian businessmen getting Chinese vaccines in Kathmandu

Soon, cat owners in the United Kingdom will likely need to install microchips on their cats or face fines under new government plans, according to a report as Britain sees a rise in the number of felines being stolen.&nbsp;

According to the police data, in the last five years, there has been a three-time increase in the number of cats being stolen, with a significant 12.3 per cent rise in the previous year.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudanese-plane-makes-emergency-landing-after-a-cat-hijacks-cockpit-367035">Sudanese plane makes emergency landing after a cat hijacks cockpit</a>

Cat owners are now being urged to get their pets microchipped in a similar manner as dogs are.&nbsp;

The Telegraph reported that the measure is being introduced to curb the thriving black market of stolen pets.&nbsp;

People who do not get their cats microchipped may face a fine of up to £500 (about USD 670).

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-am-not-a-cat-lawyer-shows-up-as-kitty-during-zoom-court-hearing-362557">'I am not a cat': Lawyer shows up as kitty during Zoom court hearing</a>&nbsp;

"Last month the home secretary, the lord chancellor and the environment secretary met to discuss a cross-government approach to combatting this issue and we will announce next steps in due course. This builds upon the huge amounts of work already undertaken by junior ministers and officials to address this cruel and criminal practice," a government spokesperson was quoted as saying by The Guardian.&nbsp;

Soon, cat owners in the United Kingdom will likely need to install microchips on their cats or face fines under new government plans, according to a report as Britain sees a rise in the number of felines being stolen.

Soon, cat owners in the United Kingdom will likely need to install microchips on their cats or face fines under new government plans, according to a report as Britain sees a rise in the number of felines being stolen. According to the police data, in the last five years, there has been a three-time increase in the number of cats being stolen, with a significant 12.3 per cent rise in the previous year. Also read | Sudanese plane makes emergency landing after a cat hijacks cockpit Cat owners are now being urged to get their pets microchipped in a similar manner as dogs are. The Telegraph reported that the measure is being introduced to curb the thriving black market of stolen pets. People who do not get their cats microchipped may face a fine of up to £500 (about USD 670). Also read | 'I am not a cat': Lawyer shows up as kitty during Zoom court hearing "Last month the home secretary, the lord chancellor and the environment secretary met to discuss a cross-government approach to combatting this issue and we will announce next steps in due course. This builds upon the huge amounts of work already undertaken by junior ministers and officials to address this cruel and criminal practice," a government spokesperson was quoted as saying by The Guardian.

Soon cats in UK likely to be microchipped as theft increases

Beijing turns yellow as sand, dust storms engulf Chinese capital

We have heard stories of couples marrying, divorcing and reuniting.

But, in a peculiar incident, a man in Taiwan has married the same spouse four times and divorced three times.

All this has also happened in 37 days, according to local media reports.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/marriage-stability-highest-among-indian-americans-in-us-new-report-reveals-372260">Marriage stability highest among Indian Americans in US, new report reveals</a>

And the reason behind this bizarre act is also something never heard of.&nbsp;

A bank clerk registered for a marriage on April 6 for which he took eight days leave from April 7 to 16, according to a Facebook post shared by a lawyer Lin.&nbsp;

The post further said that immediately the man divorced his wife and registered for a new marriage to the same woman on April 17.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/host-surprises-virtual-guests-attending-marriage-by-home-delivering-wedding-feast-349771">Host surprises virtual guests attending marriage by home-delivering wedding feast</a>

After taking another eight days of marriage leave, the clerk again divorced on April 28 and married yet again on April 29.&nbsp;

It followed the third divorce on May 11 and a fourth marriage to the same woman on May 12.&nbsp;

The bank suspected abuse of marriage leaves and only paid for leaves for the clerk's first marriage.&nbsp;

A complaint was filed by the man at the Taipei City Labor Bureau, which fined the bank NT$20,000 (over USD 700) for not paying for the leaves of all four marriages.&nbsp;

The bank then filed an appeal to the verdict saying that leave was not in compliance with the Labor Standard Act.&nbsp;

The Commissioner of the Labor Standards Section of the Labor Bureau Huang Jingang though agreed that the man's practice was unreasonable, but said there is no such provision in the Labor Standard Act that a person cannot marry the same person to get leaves.&nbsp;

We have heard stories of couples marrying, divorcing and reuniting. But, in a peculiar incident, a man in Taiwan has married the same spouse four times and divorced three times.

We have heard stories of couples marrying, divorcing and reuniting. But, in a peculiar incident, a man in Taiwan has married the same spouse four times and divorced three times. All this has also happened in 37 days, according to local media reports. Also read | Marriage stability highest among Indian Americans in US, new report reveals And the reason behind this bizarre act is also something never heard of. A bank clerk registered for a marriage on April 6 for which he took eight days leave from April 7 to 16, according to a Facebook post shared by a lawyer Lin. The post further said that immediately the man divorced his wife and registered for a new marriage to the same woman on April 17. Also read | Host surprises virtual guests attending marriage by home-delivering wedding feast After taking another eight days of marriage leave, the clerk again divorced on April 28 and married yet again on April 29. It followed the third divorce on May 11 and a fourth marriage to the same woman on May 12. The bank suspected abuse of marriage leaves and only paid for leaves for the clerk's first marriage. A complaint was filed by the man at the Taipei City Labor Bureau, which fined the bank NT$20,000 (over USD 700) for not paying for the leaves of all four marriages. The bank then filed an appeal to the verdict saying that leave was not in compliance with the Labor Standard Act. The Commissioner of the Labor Standards Section of the Labor Bureau Huang Jingang though agreed that the man's practice was unreasonable, but said there is no such provision in the Labor Standard Act that a person cannot marry the same person to get leaves.

Taiwan man marries four times, divorces three times to get extra paid leaves

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