<p>Couples in love and looking to get married can soon walk the aisle in their kitchen, lawn, park, beach, theme park or a cruise ship&nbsp;in the United Kingdom. Reportedly, the law commission, ushering in a plethora of reforms is set to loosen the wedding rules which earlier mandated the couples to only get married at a prescribed place of worship or registrar's&nbsp;office, in case of a civil marriage.</p>

<p>The proposal, if passed will allow the couples to get married, perhaps on a beach, in a park or if one is more adventurous, on a cruise ship, in the coastal waters, without the location needing a license. The proposed legislation also opens avenues for gay couples to get married, say, on military sites.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read More:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/parts-of-england-to-breach-40-degree-celsius-uk-issues-red-alert-for-london-york-498381">&nbsp;Parts of England to breach 40 degree Celsius; UK issues red alert for London, York</a></p>

<p>Additionally, the reforms would also extend the perimeter for the people acting as wedding officiants. Both religious and non-religious organisations could nominate an officiant. Independent officiants above 18 would have to apply to be individually registered and show they are 'fit and proper'&nbsp;individuals for the role</p>

<p>With sky-high inflation troubling most of the planet, the current outdated wedding laws were not allowing couples to tie the knot. Thus, the reforms are designed to offer couples a much more elaborate array of choices on where they'd like to get married.</p>

<p>It will likewise reduce the financial burden and help them plan weddings in a way that doesn't burn a hole in their pocket. Moreover, the backlog of weddings caused due to the Covid restrictions in the past two years can also be cleared after the passing of the law.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>


Couples in love and looking to get married can soon walk the aisle in their kitchen, lawn, park, beach, theme park or a cruise ship in the United Kingdom. Reportedly, the law commission, ushering in a plethora of reforms is set to loosen the wedding rules which earlier mandated the couples to only get married at a prescribed place of worship or registrar's office, in case of a civil marriage.

Couples in love and looking to get married can soon walk the aisle in their kitchen, lawn, park, beach, theme park or a cruise ship in the United Kingdom. Reportedly, the law commission, ushering in a plethora of reforms is set to loosen the wedding rules which earlier mandated the couples to only get married at a prescribed place of worship or registrar's office, in case of a civil marriage. The proposal, if passed will allow the couples to get married, perhaps on a beach, in a park or if one is more adventurous, on a cruise ship, in the coastal waters, without the location needing a license. The proposed legislation also opens avenues for gay couples to get married, say, on military sites. Read More: Parts of England to breach 40 degree Celsius; UK issues red alert for London, York Additionally, the reforms would also extend the perimeter for the people acting as wedding officiants. Both religious and non-religious organisations could nominate an officiant. Independent officiants above 18 would have to apply to be individually registered and show they are 'fit and proper' individuals for the role With sky-high inflation troubling most of the planet, the current outdated wedding laws were not allowing couples to tie the knot. Thus, the reforms are designed to offer couples a much more elaborate array of choices on where they'd like to get married. It will likewise reduce the financial burden and help them plan weddings in a way that doesn't burn a hole in their pocket. Moreover, the backlog of weddings caused due to the Covid restrictions in the past two years can also be cleared after the passing of the law. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK to relax wedding rules. Couples can get married at beaches, cruise ships or even their kitchen

<p>An infant aged four months has died in Dunka village, Bareilly district of Uttar Pradesh after a group of monkeys grabbed the kid and threw him off a three-storey building in the north Indian state.&nbsp;Reportedly, the father and mother along with the infant were taking a stroll on the terrace with the baby in the father's arms. However, suddenly, a posse of notorious monkeys descended upon the roof and attacked the parents.</p>

<p>Nirdesh Upadhyay, the father, along with his wife tried to run for the stairs but lost his balance as the baby dropped from his arms. A few other monkeys seized the opportunity, snatched the baby and left the spot.</p>

<p>The father, upon losing his baby cried hoarse for help but before the family members could understand the gravity of the situation and rush for help, the baby was flung high off the terrace and into the ground. According to medical reports, the baby died on the spot. Local reports have stated that apart from the father, one other family member was also attacked by the monkeys.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/monkey-with-a-knife-running-riot-and-terrorising-in-brazilian-town-for-a-week-491873">Monkey with a knife running riot and terrorising Brazilian town for a week</a></p>

<p>What makes the incident even more heartbreaking is the fact that the family was preparing for the name-day ceremony of the little kid. However, the baby, who had barely stepped into the world and was yet to be named by his loved ones, departed nameless.&nbsp;<br />
Lalit Verma, Bareilly Chief Conservator of Forests was apprised of the fateful incident and he immediately dispatched his team of forest department to conduct an investigation and capture the stray monkeys, wreaking havoc in the lives of ordinary citizens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is not the first time that such an incident has been registered. As reported by WION, in June,&nbsp;a month-old baby was snatched from his mother&nbsp;Mwamgongo, western Tanzania while she was breastfeeding him. The boy suffered serious wounds and died&nbsp;during emergency medical treatment.</p>

<p>Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/monkeys-kill-month-old-baby-after-snatching-boy-from-breastfeeding-mother-in-tanzania-490248">Monkeys kill month-old baby after snatching boy from breastfeeding mother in Tanzania</a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>


An infant aged four months has died in Dunka village, Bareilly district of Uttar Pradesh after a group of monkeys grabbed the kid and threw him off a three-storey building in the north Indian state.

An infant aged four months has died in Dunka village, Bareilly district of Uttar Pradesh after a group of monkeys grabbed the kid and threw him off a three-storey building in the north Indian state. Reportedly, the father and mother along with the infant were taking a stroll on the terrace with the baby in the father's arms. However, suddenly, a posse of notorious monkeys descended upon the roof and attacked the parents. Nirdesh Upadhyay, the father, along with his wife tried to run for the stairs but lost his balance as the baby dropped from his arms. A few other monkeys seized the opportunity, snatched the baby and left the spot. The father, upon losing his baby cried hoarse for help but before the family members could understand the gravity of the situation and rush for help, the baby was flung high off the terrace and into the ground. According to medical reports, the baby died on the spot. Local reports have stated that apart from the father, one other family member was also attacked by the monkeys. Read More: Monkey with a knife running riot and terrorising Brazilian town for a week What makes the incident even more heartbreaking is the fact that the family was preparing for the name-day ceremony of the little kid. However, the baby, who had barely stepped into the world and was yet to be named by his loved ones, departed nameless. Lalit Verma, Bareilly Chief Conservator of Forests was apprised of the fateful incident and he immediately dispatched his team of forest department to conduct an investigation and capture the stray monkeys, wreaking havoc in the lives of ordinary citizens. This is not the first time that such an incident has been registered. As reported by WION, in June, a month-old baby was snatched from his mother Mwamgongo, western Tanzania while she was breastfeeding him. The boy suffered serious wounds and died during emergency medical treatment. Read More: Monkeys kill month-old baby after snatching boy from breastfeeding mother in Tanzania (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Monkeys kill four-month infant in Uttar Pradesh by throwing him off roof

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidetPimrSmSVwZ" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidetPimrSmSVwZ" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidetPimrSmSVwZ" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>In what comes as a bizarre news, German tourists have been advised by the airport authorities to carry colourful luggage to the airports to curb the menace of lost luggage and avoid baggage handling chaos.</p>

<p>The authorities are of the view that carrying colourful luggage would make it easier for the airport attendants to locate as the swarm of black suitcases get harder and harder to differentiate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Frankfurt Airport spokesperson Thomas Kirner was quoted as saying, “Many people travel with black suitcases on wheels which makes identifying them very time-intensive.”</p>

<p>According to Kirner, the number of suitcases that had been misplaced or not reached their owners had run into the four-figure mark, despite a decrease in cases the last weeks. Reportedly, there are approximately 2,000 suitcases lying around at the Frankfurt airport currently, waiting to reach their destination.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Stefan Schulte, the head of the airport was of the view that the overwhelming majority of black suitcases in recent weeks has caused an array of difficulties to both airlines and the baggage handlers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read More:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supply-chain-constraints-and-shortage-of-labour-delay-boeing-737-max-production-498576" target="_blank">&nbsp;Supply chain constraints and shortage of labour delay Boeing 737 MAX production</a></p>

<p>While the airport has suggested travellers add labels with their names and addresses on their luggage, the police have advised against the practice, terming it a security hazard.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The airport is facing troubles at a time when the passenger flow has still not reached the pre-pandemic levels. If the levels do rise, the airport will have difficulties as at the peak of the pandemic, the top hierarchy had announced mass layoffs with nearly 4,000 employees losing their job.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The German economy, especially the private sector is growing at its lowest currently. The government is expected to ring in a slew measures to give it a&nbsp;boost. Airports form a major part of the economy and thus, Frankfurt airport may have to rehire&nbsp;some of the fired employees to cope with the scale and not lose any more suitcases.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-german-economy-is-shrinking-private-sector-performs-its-worst-since-first-wave-of-the-pandemic-499806">The German economy is shrinking. Private sector performs its worst since first wave of the pandemic</a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>


In what comes as a bizarre news, German tourists have been advised by the airport authorities to carry colourful luggage to the airports to curb the menace of lost luggage and avoid baggage handling chaos.

In what comes as a bizarre news, German tourists have been advised by the airport authorities to carry colourful luggage to the airports to curb the menace of lost luggage and avoid baggage handling chaos. The authorities are of the view that carrying colourful luggage would make it easier for the airport attendants to locate as the swarm of black suitcases get harder and harder to differentiate. Frankfurt Airport spokesperson Thomas Kirner was quoted as saying, “Many people travel with black suitcases on wheels which makes identifying them very time-intensive.” According to Kirner, the number of suitcases that had been misplaced or not reached their owners had run into the four-figure mark, despite a decrease in cases the last weeks. Reportedly, there are approximately 2,000 suitcases lying around at the Frankfurt airport currently, waiting to reach their destination. Meanwhile, Stefan Schulte, the head of the airport was of the view that the overwhelming majority of black suitcases in recent weeks has caused an array of difficulties to both airlines and the baggage handlers. Read More: Supply chain constraints and shortage of labour delay Boeing 737 MAX production While the airport has suggested travellers add labels with their names and addresses on their luggage, the police have advised against the practice, terming it a security hazard. The airport is facing troubles at a time when the passenger flow has still not reached the pre-pandemic levels. If the levels do rise, the airport will have difficulties as at the peak of the pandemic, the top hierarchy had announced mass layoffs with nearly 4,000 employees losing their job. The German economy, especially the private sector is growing at its lowest currently. The government is expected to ring in a slew measures to give it a boost. Airports form a major part of the economy and thus, Frankfurt airport may have to rehire some of the fired employees to cope with the scale and not lose any more suitcases. Read More: The German economy is shrinking. Private sector performs its worst since first wave of the pandemic (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

An airport in Germany has requested passengers to carry colourful luggage

<p>J. Alexander Kueng and Tou Thao, the last two of the four former Minneapolis police officers convicted of playing a role in the murder of George Floyd have been sentenced to three and a three-year and a half years prison terms respectively by a US District court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both Jueng and Thao were convicted earlier this year in February on two counts of violating George Floyd's civil rights. Judge Paul Magnuson whilst announcing the sentencing remarked that the penalties reflected their level of culpability in a case which grabbed headlines across the globe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video of George Floyd's killing showed former Officer Kueng holding the black man's back while Thao kept bystanders back during the killing.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Derek&nbsp;Chauvin kept his knee on Floyd's neck for an excruciating nine and a half minutes, before he left consciousness and died. Both officers failed to stop Chauvin and became complicit in the crime.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Derek Chauvin and his incarceration&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As reported extensively by WION, Derek Chauvin, the main convict in the case who knelt on the neck of helpless Floyd and smothered him to death was sentenced to more than 20 years in prison for denying civil rights to his victim.</p>

<p>WATCH:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/george-floyd-death-derek-chauvin-former-police-officer-sentenced-to-prison-for-21-years-495672" target="_blank">&nbsp;George Floyd death: Derek Chauvin, former police officer sentenced to prison for 21 years</a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/george-floyd-death-derek-chauvin-former-police-officer-sentenced-to-prison-for-21-years-495672/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>This sentence was added on top of the 22-and-a-half-year sentence that Chauvin is already serving for murder. The former police officer pleaded guilty of murder last year.</p>

<p>"I really don't know why you did what you did.&nbsp;But to put your knee on another person's neck until they're deceased is wrong.&nbsp;You must be substantially punished," the court had observed at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/derek-chauvin-sentenced-to-more-than-20-years-in-prison-for-violating-george-floyds-rights-495431">Derek Chauvin sentenced to more than 20 years in prison for violating George Floyd's rights</a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>


J. Alexander Kueng and Tou Thao, the last two of the four former Minneapolis police officers convicted of playing a role in the murder of George Floyd have been sentenced to three and a three-year and a half years prison terms respectively by a US District court.

J. Alexander Kueng and Tou Thao, the last two of the four former Minneapolis police officers convicted of playing a role in the murder of George Floyd have been sentenced to three and a three-year and a half years prison terms respectively by a US District court. Both Jueng and Thao were convicted earlier this year in February on two counts of violating George Floyd's civil rights. Judge Paul Magnuson whilst announcing the sentencing remarked that the penalties reflected their level of culpability in a case which grabbed headlines across the globe. The video of George Floyd's killing showed former Officer Kueng holding the black man's back while Thao kept bystanders back during the killing. Meanwhile, Derek Chauvin kept his knee on Floyd's neck for an excruciating nine and a half minutes, before he left consciousness and died. Both officers failed to stop Chauvin and became complicit in the crime. Derek Chauvin and his incarceration As reported extensively by WION, Derek Chauvin, the main convict in the case who knelt on the neck of helpless Floyd and smothered him to death was sentenced to more than 20 years in prison for denying civil rights to his victim. WATCH: George Floyd death: Derek Chauvin, former police officer sentenced to prison for 21 years × This sentence was added on top of the 22-and-a-half-year sentence that Chauvin is already serving for murder. The former police officer pleaded guilty of murder last year. "I really don't know why you did what you did. But to put your knee on another person's neck until they're deceased is wrong. You must be substantially punished," the court had observed at the time. Read More: Derek Chauvin sentenced to more than 20 years in prison for violating George Floyd's rights (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Two remaining Minneapolis police officers sentenced to prison in George Floyd killing

<p>Sky-high energy prices and historic inflation may have caused financial woes to ordinary Britishers but the multinational oil and gas companies are having a payday. Reportedly, British Gas giant Centrica has posted operating profits of $1.5 million in the first six months of the year, up $283 million from a year ago.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We have today announced our 2022 interim results. Our financial performance was good, against a backdrop of high and volatile commodity prices, we continue to make good progress towards the 3-point turnaround strategy. A full breakdown is available here → <a href="https://t.co/xO4we0BQUz">https://t.co/xO4we0BQUz</a></p>
— Centrica plc (@centricaplc) <a href="https://twitter.com/centricaplc/status/1552537690633080833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The profits come on the heels of wholesale gas prices in the continent hitting new record highs, ever since Russia decided to invade Ukraine in February, earlier this year.</p>

<p>Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-highest-shop-price-inflation-in-nearly-17-years-501124">UK: Highest shop price inflation in nearly 17 years</a></p>

<p>Moreover, the company's profits were boosted by selling its assets. The British major solid its Spirit Energy’s Norwegian and Statfjord UK oil and gas assets this year to register impressive numbers.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>"The increase in adjusted operating profit was primarily driven by the Upstream businesses, reflecting strong production and generation volumes and the impact of higher commodity prices." the company stated.&nbsp;</h5>
</blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=The increase in adjusted operating profit was primarily driven by the Upstream businesses, reflecting strong production and generation volumes and the impact of higher commodity prices. the company stated. " target="_blank"><i class="fa fa-share">&nbsp;</i></a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">×</a></div>
</div>
</div>

<p>Reportedly, after not sharing dividends in 2020, Centrica is expected to pay a dividend of $1.2 per share to its shareholders, totalling $71.5 million.</p>

<p>While the company made fivefold profits, its chief executive Chris O’Shea warned that the UK was about to face a difficult winter where average household winter bills could rise to $5,000.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch:&nbsp;<strong>UK: Nearly 40,000 rail, maritime and transport workers on strike</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-nearly-40000-rail-maritime-and-transport-workers-on-strike-501160/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>When asked what the company was doing to help the customers facing hardships, Chris stated:</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>"We are investing in our customers and colleagues, creating at least 500 additional UK-based customer service roles in British Gas Energy and 1,000 new UK engineering apprenticeships, while through the British Gas Energy Support Fund we are providing grants to help customers pay their energy bills."</h5>
</blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text= We are investing in our customers and colleagues, creating at least 500 additional UK-based customer service roles in British Gas Energy and 1,000 new UK engineering apprenticeships, while through the British Gas Energy Support Fund we are providing grants to help customers pay their energy bills." target="_blank"><i class="fa fa-share">&nbsp;</i></a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">×</a></div>
</div>
</div>

<p>The war between Ukraine and Russia has hit Europe the hardest. Up until last year,&nbsp;Russia supplied the European Union, which the UK was part of once,&nbsp;with 40 per cent&nbsp;of its gas needs. However, that figure has dropped drastically this year as Russia continues to use its position of leverage to hurt Europe for supporting Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>


Sky-high energy prices and historic inflation may have caused financial woes to ordinary Britishers but the multinational oil and gas companies are having a payday.

Sky-high energy prices and historic inflation may have caused financial woes to ordinary Britishers but the multinational oil and gas companies are having a payday. Reportedly, British Gas giant Centrica has posted operating profits of $1.5 million in the first six months of the year, up $283 million from a year ago. We have today announced our 2022 interim results. Our financial performance was good, against a backdrop of high and volatile commodity prices, we continue to make good progress towards the 3-point turnaround strategy. A full breakdown is available here → https://t.co/xO4we0BQUz — Centrica plc (@centricaplc) July 28, 2022 × The profits come on the heels of wholesale gas prices in the continent hitting new record highs, ever since Russia decided to invade Ukraine in February, earlier this year. Read More: UK: Highest shop price inflation in nearly 17 years Moreover, the company's profits were boosted by selling its assets. The British major solid its Spirit Energy’s Norwegian and Statfjord UK oil and gas assets this year to register impressive numbers. "The increase in adjusted operating profit was primarily driven by the Upstream businesses, reflecting strong production and generation volumes and the impact of higher commodity prices." the company stated. × Reportedly, after not sharing dividends in 2020, Centrica is expected to pay a dividend of $1.2 per share to its shareholders, totalling $71.5 million. While the company made fivefold profits, its chief executive Chris O’Shea warned that the UK was about to face a difficult winter where average household winter bills could rise to $5,000. Watch: UK: Nearly 40,000 rail, maritime and transport workers on strike × When asked what the company was doing to help the customers facing hardships, Chris stated: "We are investing in our customers and colleagues, creating at least 500 additional UK-based customer service roles in British Gas Energy and 1,000 new UK engineering apprenticeships, while through the British Gas Energy Support Fund we are providing grants to help customers pay their energy bills." × The war between Ukraine and Russia has hit Europe the hardest. Up until last year, Russia supplied the European Union, which the UK was part of once, with 40 per cent of its gas needs. However, that figure has dropped drastically this year as Russia continues to use its position of leverage to hurt Europe for supporting Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK gas major Centrica's profits soar amid sky-high energy prices

<p>Russia may have resumed the supply of natural gas through Nord Stream 1 pipeline after a 10-day closure due to maintenance but the German economy continues to be on the edge of recession.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a Bloomberg report, Germany's economy is shrinking this year as inflation and the sanctions on Russia after the invasion of Ukraine continue to backfire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reportedly, private sector activity in the European nation has fallen steeply.&nbsp;Some experts are dubbing it the 'Worst performance of private sector since the peak of the first wave of the Covid pandemic'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-russias-gazprom-tells-europe-gas-halt-beyond-its-control-498657" target="_blank">Russia restarts key gas pipeline Nord Stream 1 to Europe after a 10-day shutdown</a></p>

<p>The Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) measured by S&amp;P Global stood at 49.2 in July, down 3.2 from June's 52.4, while the manufacturing index dropped 2.8 to 49.2 from 52.0, recorded a month earlier in June. it is pertinent to note that 51.2 and 50.6, are the respective markers that signal growth in activity. However, Germany is down in both markers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both markers were expected to be above 50 but the downturn in manufacturing, decline in output and the uncontrollable yet delicate situation with Russia added to the misery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to an S&amp;Ps economist, Germany had its moment in the sun when it enjoyed a growth boost as the virus-related restrictions were eased. However, after several 'uncontrollables' did not go Germany's way, the economy started contracting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Germany's woes have been compounded by the condition of the Euro which fell 0.9pc against the dollar to $1.0141. The situation with Russia is not helping Euro gain its lost power either.</p>

<p>Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-crisis-cost-germany-at-least-80-billion-euros-since-2018-report-498478">Climate crisis cost Germany at least 80 billion euros since 2018: Report</a></p>

<p>However, the biggest crisis for Germany is yet to come. The winters are approaching and if Russia continues to supply natural gas at the current levels, there can be a dark, cold winter in Berlin, leaving millions in the lurch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The private sector, already in the doldrums could be crippled for good as the industry fails to find an alternative. If the gas supply is contracted, the private companies will either have to reduce production or altogether slam down the shutters.</p>

<p>Either way, Germany's economy could be hit. Russia understands the leverage and has been issuing routine threats to Germany, one of the most vocal voices against Russia's invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>


Russia may have resumed the supply of natural gas through Nord Stream 1 pipeline after a 10-day closure due to maintenance but the German economy continues to be on the edge of recession.

Russia may have resumed the supply of natural gas through Nord Stream 1 pipeline after a 10-day closure due to maintenance but the German economy continues to be on the edge of recession. According to a Bloomberg report, Germany's economy is shrinking this year as inflation and the sanctions on Russia after the invasion of Ukraine continue to backfire. Reportedly, private sector activity in the European nation has fallen steeply. Some experts are dubbing it the 'Worst performance of private sector since the peak of the first wave of the Covid pandemic'. Read More: Russia restarts key gas pipeline Nord Stream 1 to Europe after a 10-day shutdown The Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) measured by S&P Global stood at 49.2 in July, down 3.2 from June's 52.4, while the manufacturing index dropped 2.8 to 49.2 from 52.0, recorded a month earlier in June. it is pertinent to note that 51.2 and 50.6, are the respective markers that signal growth in activity. However, Germany is down in both markers. Both markers were expected to be above 50 but the downturn in manufacturing, decline in output and the uncontrollable yet delicate situation with Russia added to the misery. According to an S&Ps economist, Germany had its moment in the sun when it enjoyed a growth boost as the virus-related restrictions were eased. However, after several 'uncontrollables' did not go Germany's way, the economy started contracting. Germany's woes have been compounded by the condition of the Euro which fell 0.9pc against the dollar to $1.0141. The situation with Russia is not helping Euro gain its lost power either. Read More: Climate crisis cost Germany at least 80 billion euros since 2018: Report However, the biggest crisis for Germany is yet to come. The winters are approaching and if Russia continues to supply natural gas at the current levels, there can be a dark, cold winter in Berlin, leaving millions in the lurch. The private sector, already in the doldrums could be crippled for good as the industry fails to find an alternative. If the gas supply is contracted, the private companies will either have to reduce production or altogether slam down the shutters. Either way, Germany's economy could be hit. Russia understands the leverage and has been issuing routine threats to Germany, one of the most vocal voices against Russia's invasion of Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

The German economy is shrinking. Private sector performs its worst since first wave of the pandemic

<p>A black family based in Baltimore, United States, has filed a&nbsp;$25 million class action lawsuit for racial discrimination against&nbsp;Sesame Place, an amusement park in&nbsp;Philadelphia inspired by the popular&nbsp;Sesame Street show.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reportedly,&nbsp;Jodi Brown along with her family and friends was visiting the amusement park when during a meet and greet, multiple costumed characters purportedly refused to shake hands with her five-year-old daughter as well as niece.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident was captured on camera and since then, the nine-second clip has gone viral on the realms of social media platforms.</p>

<p>The video shows the Sesame Place employee dressed in the character of Rosita high-fiving the other visitors, who happen to be white.</p>

<p>However, by the time the dressed character reaches Jodi’s daughter and niece, it pulls its hands away from the girl’s outstretched hands and gestures ‘no’, whilst walking away from the spot, leaving the little girls confused.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jodi put the video on her Instagram account and captioned it:</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>I’m going to keep posting this, because this had me hot. We were on our way out of sesame place and the kids wanted to stop to see the characters. THIS DISGUSTING person blatantly told our kids NO then proceeded to hug the little white girl next to us! Then when I went to complain about it, they looking at me like I’m crazy. I asked the lady who the character was and I wanted to see a supervisor and she told me SHE DIDNT KNOW !! I will never step foot in&nbsp;@sesameplace&nbsp;ever again ! And please feel free to repost this. Actually run me my money back 😡🤬so mad I stopped the video but it got me so mad when he blatantly told them no</h5>
</blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=I’m going to keep posting this, because this had me hot. We were on our way out of sesame place and the kids wanted to stop to see the characters. THIS DISGUSTING person blatantly told our kids NO then proceeded to hug the little white girl next to us! Then when I went to complain about it, they looking at me like I’m crazy. I asked the lady who the character was and I wanted to see a supervisor and she told me SHE DIDNT KNOW !! I will never step foot in @sesameplace ever again ! And please feel free to repost this. Actually run me my money back 😡🤬so mad I stopped the video but it got me so mad when he blatantly told them no" target="_blank"><i class="fa fa-share">&nbsp;</i></a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">×</a></div>
</div>
</div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CgGAHtyFoHg/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CgGAHtyFoHg/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CgGAHtyFoHg/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CgGAHtyFoHg/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Jeezy (@__jodiii__)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Reportedly, the complainant&nbsp;has also set up a Change.org page where she is demanding that Sesame Place and its parent company be held accountable for their racist employees. Until the last update, the petition had been signed by over 26,000 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read More:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-has-us-failed-to-fight-racism-374376">&nbsp;Why has US failed to fight racism?</a></p>

<p>After the controversy snowballed, Sesame Place released a statement issuing a clarification.&nbsp;“The Rosita performer did not intentionally ignore the girls and is devastated by the misunderstanding. Performers sometimes miss requests for hugs because the costumes they wear make it difficult to see at lower levels,” stated the amusement park.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It’s been over 150 years since America passed the 13th Amendment Act but in practice, the legacy of racism continues to shadow the life of every black American. Whether it was an honest mistake from the performer or a deliberate attempt to whisk&nbsp;away the little girls, the fact that such incidents continue to transpire in America suggest that racism is well and alive and kicking.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>


A black family based in Baltimore, United States, has filed a $25 million class action lawsuit for racial discrimination against Sesame Place, an amusement park in Philadelphia inspired by the popular Sesame Street show.

A black family based in Baltimore, United States, has filed a $25 million class action lawsuit for racial discrimination against Sesame Place, an amusement park in Philadelphia inspired by the popular Sesame Street show. Reportedly, Jodi Brown along with her family and friends was visiting the amusement park when during a meet and greet, multiple costumed characters purportedly refused to shake hands with her five-year-old daughter as well as niece. The incident was captured on camera and since then, the nine-second clip has gone viral on the realms of social media platforms. The video shows the Sesame Place employee dressed in the character of Rosita high-fiving the other visitors, who happen to be white. However, by the time the dressed character reaches Jodi’s daughter and niece, it pulls its hands away from the girl’s outstretched hands and gestures ‘no’, whilst walking away from the spot, leaving the little girls confused. Jodi put the video on her Instagram account and captioned it: I’m going to keep posting this, because this had me hot. We were on our way out of sesame place and the kids wanted to stop to see the characters. THIS DISGUSTING person blatantly told our kids NO then proceeded to hug the little white girl next to us! Then when I went to complain about it, they looking at me like I’m crazy. I asked the lady who the character was and I wanted to see a supervisor and she told me SHE DIDNT KNOW !! I will never step foot in @sesameplace ever again ! And please feel free to repost this. Actually run me my money back 😡🤬so mad I stopped the video but it got me so mad when he blatantly told them no × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jeezy (@__jodiii__) × Reportedly, the complainant has also set up a Change.org page where she is demanding that Sesame Place and its parent company be held accountable for their racist employees. Until the last update, the petition had been signed by over 26,000 people. Read More: Why has US failed to fight racism? After the controversy snowballed, Sesame Place released a statement issuing a clarification. “The Rosita performer did not intentionally ignore the girls and is devastated by the misunderstanding. Performers sometimes miss requests for hugs because the costumes they wear make it difficult to see at lower levels,” stated the amusement park. It’s been over 150 years since America passed the 13th Amendment Act but in practice, the legacy of racism continues to shadow the life of every black American. Whether it was an honest mistake from the performer or a deliberate attempt to whisk away the little girls, the fact that such incidents continue to transpire in America suggest that racism is well and alive and kicking. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH: A US theme park character ignores two black kids; family files a $25 million class lawsuit

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidR0olf0vESLLg" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>The French media is currently obsessed with an unnamed 30-year-old man who has been nicknamed 'Pyromaniac fireman' for allegedly setting a series of wildfires in France. Reportedly, the man, a volunteer firefighter was arrested from the Herault region for starting wildfires with a lighter on May 26, July 21 and most recently, the intervening nights of July 26-27.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Montpellier prosecutors claimed that the man had already accepted to start the fire. When quizzed about why he started the fire and what was the motive behind it, the man revealed that he wanted an intervention from the fire brigade to save him from an 'oppressive' family environment.</p>

<p>Moreover, the accused added that such extreme conditions around wildfires brought him an adrenaline rush as he also sought social recognition.&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote>
<p>“He declared that he had done this in order to provoke an intervention by the fire brigade to save him from an oppressive family environment and because of the excitement these interventions caused him. Adrenaline he called it, these are his own words,” said prosecutor Fabrice Belargent</p>
</blockquote>

<p>Marie Bar, appearing for the accused stated that her client was remorseful about the incident and apologised to the firemen with whom he worked side by side. He also called the firemen part of his big family.</p>

<p>However, ahead of the trial, the local court remanded him into custody. If convicted, the 'Pyromaniac fireman' faces up to 15 years in prison and a fine totalling $153,000.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>The gender-reveal party of 2020</strong></p>

<p>A few summers back, it was a fateful gender reveal party that led to the catastrophic jungle fires in the El Dorado region of California.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The blaze soon torched an area close to 23,000 acres (9,300 hectares) in the months to come as firefighters and the entire state machinery had to pool their resources to control the fire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-gender-reveal-party-sparks-fire-that-burned-7000-acres-of-land-325761" target="_blank">California: Gender reveal party sparks fire that burned 7,000 acres of land</a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>


The French media is currently obsessed with an unnamed 30-year-old man who has been nicknamed 'Pyromaniac fireman' for allegedly setting a series of wildfires in France.

The French media is currently obsessed with an unnamed 30-year-old man who has been nicknamed 'Pyromaniac fireman' for allegedly setting a series of wildfires in France. Reportedly, the man, a volunteer firefighter was arrested from the Herault region for starting wildfires with a lighter on May 26, July 21 and most recently, the intervening nights of July 26-27. The Montpellier prosecutors claimed that the man had already accepted to start the fire. When quizzed about why he started the fire and what was the motive behind it, the man revealed that he wanted an intervention from the fire brigade to save him from an 'oppressive' family environment. Moreover, the accused added that such extreme conditions around wildfires brought him an adrenaline rush as he also sought social recognition. “He declared that he had done this in order to provoke an intervention by the fire brigade to save him from an oppressive family environment and because of the excitement these interventions caused him. Adrenaline he called it, these are his own words,” said prosecutor Fabrice Belargent Marie Bar, appearing for the accused stated that her client was remorseful about the incident and apologised to the firemen with whom he worked side by side. He also called the firemen part of his big family. However, ahead of the trial, the local court remanded him into custody. If convicted, the 'Pyromaniac fireman' faces up to 15 years in prison and a fine totalling $153,000. The gender-reveal party of 2020 A few summers back, it was a fateful gender reveal party that led to the catastrophic jungle fires in the El Dorado region of California. The blaze soon torched an area close to 23,000 acres (9,300 hectares) in the months to come as firefighters and the entire state machinery had to pool their resources to control the fire. Read More: California: Gender reveal party sparks fire that burned 7,000 acres of land (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pyromaniac fireman lights up the jungles to seek adrenaline rush and avoid family

<p>Rohit Sharma's elegant half-century and Dinesh Karthik's blazing finish were backed up by a solid bowling performance as India made short work of West Indies with an easy 68-run victory in the first T20I on Friday, here at the Brian Lara Stadium, Trinidad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For coach Rahul Dravid, almost all the strategic changes in the playing XI seemed to work. The Indian team went with three spinners compared to the lone spinner opted for by the hosts while the new opening combination seemingly did its job.&nbsp;</p>

<p>West Indies won the toss and decided to bowl first. For the umpteenth time this year, India had a totally different opening pair as Suryakumar Yadav walked alongside the Indian skipper.</p>

<p>While Rohit set up the platform with a 44-ball-64, it was Karthik's calculated assault, an unbeaten 41 off 19 balls that took India to 190 for six after being put into bat. The last three overs of the Indian innings yielded 45 runs, which became the turning point as Dinesh Karthik once again showed his finish prowess.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On a track where there was spongy bounce with a bit of turn and grip, Indian spinners Ravichandran Ashwin (2/22 in 4 overs), Ravindra Jadeja (1/26 in 4 overs) and Ravi Bishnoi (2/26 in 4 overs) got wickets at regular intervals to restrict the hosts at 122 for eight in 20 overs.</p>

<p>Arshdeep Singh (2/24 in 4 overs) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (1/11 in 2 overs), despite some initial pasting, got their share of breakthroughs. Hence, a below-par show by top-order, save Rohit, didn't have telling consequences on India.</p>

<p>Suryakumar Yadav (24 off 16 balls) provided an interesting option as an opener while the manner in which Arshdeep deceived a rampaging Kyle Mayers with a short delivery spoke volumes about his temperament.</p>

<p>Ashwin and Bishnoi, both non-regulars in the playing XI, were brilliant as the former showed his variations and the latter was happy bowling a bunch of googlies which the opposition batters failed to read on most occasions.</p>

<p><strong>Skipper Rohit turns back the clock</strong></p>

<p>However, if one has to speak about the set-up, then it was skipper Rohit, who gave a glimpse of his vintage self with some breathtaking shots en route his 27th half-century.</p>

<p>The Indian captain who endured a barren spell in the shortest format since the IPL has changed his game from the England T20 series. In the process, he reclaimed his position as the highest run-getter (3443 runs) in T20Is from Martin Guptill (3399 runs).<br />
His innings had seven fours and two sixes, a lofted shot dancing down the track off Jason Holder and a short-arm pull off Alazarri Joseph.</p>

<p>There were some delectable boundaries too, a back-cut, a cover drive and a deliberate glide over the short third-man to enthral a sizeable Indian crowd present at the Brian Lara Stadium.</p>

<p>After being put into bat, Suryakumar Yadav's elevation at the top of the order showed that coach Rahul Dravid is still looking at other options as Rohit's opening partner, despite Rishabh Pant looking comfortable as an opener.</p>

<p>To be fair, Surya didn't do all that bad and he showed intent during his 16-ball 24, which included a breathtaking six -- a swivel of hips to send a rising delivery behind the square -- besides three boundaries.</p>

<p>But, while trying to whip left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein through mid-wicket, all Surya managed was a thick outside edge to short third man. A lot of credit should go to Hosein, who was brought well inside the powerplay and did a brilliant job with figures of 1 for 14, including 14 dot balls.</p>

<p>It was Hosein, who didn't let Rohit tee off during that phase while Shreyas Iyer (0), Pant (14 off 12 balls) and Hardik Pandya (1) didn't get too many at the other end.</p>

<p>Karthik, the team's designated finisher, justified his billing as 52 runs came off the last four overs in a seventh-wicket stand with Ashwin (13 not out). It was left to Karthik, the eternal '20-ball man', who smashed four fours and two sixes in a 360-degree display of shot-making.</p>


Rohit Sharma's elegant half-century and Dinesh Karthik's blazing finish were backed up by a solid bowling performance as India made short work of West Indies with an easy 68-run victory in the first T20I on Friday, here at the Brian Lara Stadium, Trinidad.

Rohit Sharma's elegant half-century and Dinesh Karthik's blazing finish were backed up by a solid bowling performance as India made short work of West Indies with an easy 68-run victory in the first T20I on Friday, here at the Brian Lara Stadium, Trinidad. For coach Rahul Dravid, almost all the strategic changes in the playing XI seemed to work. The Indian team went with three spinners compared to the lone spinner opted for by the hosts while the new opening combination seemingly did its job. West Indies won the toss and decided to bowl first. For the umpteenth time this year, India had a totally different opening pair as Suryakumar Yadav walked alongside the Indian skipper. While Rohit set up the platform with a 44-ball-64, it was Karthik's calculated assault, an unbeaten 41 off 19 balls that took India to 190 for six after being put into bat. The last three overs of the Indian innings yielded 45 runs, which became the turning point as Dinesh Karthik once again showed his finish prowess. On a track where there was spongy bounce with a bit of turn and grip, Indian spinners Ravichandran Ashwin (2/22 in 4 overs), Ravindra Jadeja (1/26 in 4 overs) and Ravi Bishnoi (2/26 in 4 overs) got wickets at regular intervals to restrict the hosts at 122 for eight in 20 overs. Arshdeep Singh (2/24 in 4 overs) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (1/11 in 2 overs), despite some initial pasting, got their share of breakthroughs. Hence, a below-par show by top-order, save Rohit, didn't have telling consequences on India. Suryakumar Yadav (24 off 16 balls) provided an interesting option as an opener while the manner in which Arshdeep deceived a rampaging Kyle Mayers with a short delivery spoke volumes about his temperament. Ashwin and Bishnoi, both non-regulars in the playing XI, were brilliant as the former showed his variations and the latter was happy bowling a bunch of googlies which the opposition batters failed to read on most occasions. Skipper Rohit turns back the clock However, if one has to speak about the set-up, then it was skipper Rohit, who gave a glimpse of his vintage self with some breathtaking shots en route his 27th half-century. The Indian captain who endured a barren spell in the shortest format since the IPL has changed his game from the England T20 series. In the process, he reclaimed his position as the highest run-getter (3443 runs) in T20Is from Martin Guptill (3399 runs). His innings had seven fours and two sixes, a lofted shot dancing down the track off Jason Holder and a short-arm pull off Alazarri Joseph. There were some delectable boundaries too, a back-cut, a cover drive and a deliberate glide over the short third-man to enthral a sizeable Indian crowd present at the Brian Lara Stadium. After being put into bat, Suryakumar Yadav's elevation at the top of the order showed that coach Rahul Dravid is still looking at other options as Rohit's opening partner, despite Rishabh Pant looking comfortable as an opener. To be fair, Surya didn't do all that bad and he showed intent during his 16-ball 24, which included a breathtaking six -- a swivel of hips to send a rising delivery behind the square -- besides three boundaries. But, while trying to whip left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein through mid-wicket, all Surya managed was a thick outside edge to short third man. A lot of credit should go to Hosein, who was brought well inside the powerplay and did a brilliant job with figures of 1 for 14, including 14 dot balls. It was Hosein, who didn't let Rohit tee off during that phase while Shreyas Iyer (0), Pant (14 off 12 balls) and Hardik Pandya (1) didn't get too many at the other end. Karthik, the team's designated finisher, justified his billing as 52 runs came off the last four overs in a seventh-wicket stand with Ashwin (13 not out). It was left to Karthik, the eternal '20-ball man', who smashed four fours and two sixes in a 360-degree display of shot-making.

India vs West Indies, 1st T20I; Rohit Sharma and Dinesh Karthik set up a convincing 68-runs victory

<p>At the beginning of the pandemic when the world was halted, one of the first television series to become a mass phenomenon was Netflix's 'Tiger King' showcasing the rise and fall of Joe Exotic and his confrontations with Carole Baskin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Joe Exotic is serving a prison term, his arch-rival Carole Baskin, a supposed 'animal rights activist' has received a major fillip. The&nbsp;US House of Representatives on Friday&nbsp;passed the&nbsp;Big Cat Public Safety Act by a vote of 278 to 134.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Under the newly passed act, possession of big cats would be limited to wildlife sanctuaries, certified zoos, state universities and other natural habitats, not homes of private individuals.</p>

<p>Moreover, their breeding would be banned with the exception of a certified zoo or an animal exhibitor. As for the owners currently having big cats as pets, the bill states that they will have to get them registered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The zoos where big cats will continue to remain will have to prohibit the cuddling culture. The bill explicitly bans any kind of direct contact.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bill will now head to the senate where most experts hope that it will pass unanimously. However, given that GOP lawmakers recently shot down the PACT Act meant for military veterans, the passing of&nbsp;Big Cat Public Safety Act is certainly not guaranteed.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-joe-exotic-loses-appeal-gets-new-21-year-jail-term-448891">Joe Exotic loses appeal, gets new 21-year jail term</a></p>

<p>In most cases where private zoos and individuals breed a big cat, they take them on as a cub.&nbsp;There is huge 'cub-petting' industry in the USA as shown in the Netflix documentary where people shell a fortune to get near these animals and spend some time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cubs are profitable but as they grow big, they do not have much monetary value. Whereas feeding and caring for them takes a fortune.</p>

<p>Read More<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/doc-antle-of-tiger-king-faces-20-year-prison-sentence-in-a-money-laundering-case-485840">:&nbsp;Doc Antle of `Tiger King` faces 20-year prison sentence in a money laundering case</a></p>

<p>Thus, in most cases, the animals are abused or left to fend for themselves. Since most of the captured big cats are born and raised in human captivity, they cannot acclimatise to the jungle, even when left there.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>


At the beginning of the pandemic when the world was halted, one of the first television series to become a mass phenomenon was Netflix's 'Tiger King' showcasing the rise and fall of Joe Exotic and his confrontations with Carole Baskin.

At the beginning of the pandemic when the world was halted, one of the first television series to become a mass phenomenon was Netflix's 'Tiger King' showcasing the rise and fall of Joe Exotic and his confrontations with Carole Baskin. While Joe Exotic is serving a prison term, his arch-rival Carole Baskin, a supposed 'animal rights activist' has received a major fillip. The US House of Representatives on Friday passed the Big Cat Public Safety Act by a vote of 278 to 134. Under the newly passed act, possession of big cats would be limited to wildlife sanctuaries, certified zoos, state universities and other natural habitats, not homes of private individuals. Moreover, their breeding would be banned with the exception of a certified zoo or an animal exhibitor. As for the owners currently having big cats as pets, the bill states that they will have to get them registered. The zoos where big cats will continue to remain will have to prohibit the cuddling culture. The bill explicitly bans any kind of direct contact. The bill will now head to the senate where most experts hope that it will pass unanimously. However, given that GOP lawmakers recently shot down the PACT Act meant for military veterans, the passing of Big Cat Public Safety Act is certainly not guaranteed. Read More: Joe Exotic loses appeal, gets new 21-year jail term In most cases where private zoos and individuals breed a big cat, they take them on as a cub. There is huge 'cub-petting' industry in the USA as shown in the Netflix documentary where people shell a fortune to get near these animals and spend some time. The cubs are profitable but as they grow big, they do not have much monetary value. Whereas feeding and caring for them takes a fortune. Read More: Doc Antle of `Tiger King` faces 20-year prison sentence in a money laundering case Thus, in most cases, the animals are abused or left to fend for themselves. Since most of the captured big cats are born and raised in human captivity, they cannot acclimatise to the jungle, even when left there. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Netflix 'Tiger King' effect? US House passes Big Cat Safety Act to protect animals

<p>Republican senators Ted Cruz, Steve Daines and several others are being mocked on social media platforms after being seen fist-bumping each other as GOP tanked a veteran Healthcare Bill.</p>

<p>Reportedly, the senate had gathered to vote on the&nbsp;Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act which would have expanded the healthcare facilities and coverage to millions of military veterans exposed to toxic burn pits during their service.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bill had received 'broadly bipartisan' support up until now. However,&nbsp;when the senate gathered to vote, it was blocked by the Republicans. 41 out of the 42 senators to vote against the bill were from the GOP.</p>

<p>After the vote, Texas senator Ted Cruz, Montana senator Steve Daines along with others were seen fist bumping and congratulating each other by shaking hands. The video of the incident was posted on the microblogging platform Twitter and immediately gained traction.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Senate Republicans BLOCKED the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PACTAct?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PACTAct</a>, critical health care for veterans with illness caused by toxic burn pits.<br />
<br />
Even though many Republicans supported it just weeks ago.<br />
<br />
And they celebrated. <a href="https://t.co/fAWIVrwB0A">pic.twitter.com/fAWIVrwB0A</a></p>
— Senate Democrats (@SenateDems) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenateDems/status/1552773816027418625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Most of the netizens were of the view that the GOP senators should have kept their political differences aside and voted for a bill that was for the benefit of the veterans who protected the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the controversy snowballed, Ted Cruz's office released a statement saying:&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote>
<p>"Senator Cruz is a strong supporter of the PACT Act and our nation's veterans. However, this version of the PACT Act contains an irresponsible Democratic provision allowing Congress&nbsp;to recklessly spend an additional $400 billion on programs totally unrelated to our veterans."</p>
</blockquote>

<p>It is pertinent to note that last month, 25 senators backed and supported the bill. The sudden u-turn of the senators suggests that it was another attempt by the GOP to settle political scores.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republicans-threaten-google-include-anti-abortion-crisis-pregnancy-centres-in-results-for-abortion-or-else-501345">Republicans threaten Google: Include 'anti-abortion' crisis pregnancy centres in results for abortion or else</a></p>

<p>The PACT Act came into being after&nbsp;the death of Ohio soldier&nbsp;Heath Robinson in 2020. The army veteran was deployed in Kosovo and Iraq during his military days. However, the excessive exposure to burn pits led Robison to develop a rare form of lung cancer, which ultimately&nbsp;became the cause of his death.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>


Republican senators Ted Cruz, Steve Daines and several others are being mocked on social media platforms after being seen fist-bumping each other as GOP tanked a veteran Healthcare Bill.

Republican senators Ted Cruz, Steve Daines and several others are being mocked on social media platforms after being seen fist-bumping each other as GOP tanked a veteran Healthcare Bill. Reportedly, the senate had gathered to vote on the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act which would have expanded the healthcare facilities and coverage to millions of military veterans exposed to toxic burn pits during their service. The bill had received 'broadly bipartisan' support up until now. However, when the senate gathered to vote, it was blocked by the Republicans. 41 out of the 42 senators to vote against the bill were from the GOP. After the vote, Texas senator Ted Cruz, Montana senator Steve Daines along with others were seen fist bumping and congratulating each other by shaking hands. The video of the incident was posted on the microblogging platform Twitter and immediately gained traction. Senate Republicans BLOCKED the #PACTAct, critical health care for veterans with illness caused by toxic burn pits. Even though many Republicans supported it just weeks ago. And they celebrated. pic.twitter.com/fAWIVrwB0A — Senate Democrats (@SenateDems) July 28, 2022 × Most of the netizens were of the view that the GOP senators should have kept their political differences aside and voted for a bill that was for the benefit of the veterans who protected the country. After the controversy snowballed, Ted Cruz's office released a statement saying: "Senator Cruz is a strong supporter of the PACT Act and our nation's veterans. However, this version of the PACT Act contains an irresponsible Democratic provision allowing Congress to recklessly spend an additional $400 billion on programs totally unrelated to our veterans." It is pertinent to note that last month, 25 senators backed and supported the bill. The sudden u-turn of the senators suggests that it was another attempt by the GOP to settle political scores. Read More: Republicans threaten Google: Include 'anti-abortion' crisis pregnancy centres in results for abortion or else The PACT Act came into being after the death of Ohio soldier Heath Robinson in 2020. The army veteran was deployed in Kosovo and Iraq during his military days. However, the excessive exposure to burn pits led Robison to develop a rare form of lung cancer, which ultimately became the cause of his death. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH: Republican senators fist-bump after tanking a healthcare bill for military veterans

<p>Pakistan's economy is under tremendous debt. Now, in an attempt to avoid defaulting on debt payments, Pakistan's army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa has sought help from the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reportedly, Bajwa is attempting to persuade Washington to receive immediate loan funds amounting to $1.2 billion&nbsp;from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Bajwa spoke to US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman and put forth his request.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Why is Bajwa pleading with Washington?</strong></p>

<p>As reported extensively by WION, the cash-strapped country has been going through its worst financial crisis in recent times and needs cash liquidity on an almost urgent basis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Standing on the verge of bankruptcy, Pakistan, however, was given a glimmer of hope earlier this month when the IMF decided to resume a 2019 signed $6 billion loan programme.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, IMF kept a few pre-conditions before Islamabad prior to opening its coffers. Reportedly, Pakistan will have to raise $4 billion from friendly countries to receive the next tranche of payment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Pakistan does not have the means and time to generate such an amount. Thus, Bajwa is attempting to work his friends in Washington to get the process expedited.</p>

<p><strong>Pakistan government to sell state assets</strong></p>

<p>It is pertinent to note that the Pakistan government under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently brought an ordinance which grants it the power to&nbsp;sell state assets such as oil and gas companies to foreign nations without any checks.</p>

<p>The move is aimed at quickly raising funds to prevent the country from defaulting on the loans.</p>

<p>Read More: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/pakistan-introduces-an-ordinance-allowing-government-to-sell-state-assets-to-foreign-nations-500200">Pakistan brings ordinance allowing government to sell state assets to foreign nations</a></p>

<p>The Pakistan rupee has fallen 8.3 per cent this week alone, which is being dubbed the steepest fall since 1998.</p>

<p>According to several estimates, the neighbouring country of India needs at least $41 billion in the next 12 months to fund debt repayments and boost foreign exchange reserves that have fallen by&nbsp;$754 million to $8.57 billion,</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
<strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong>&nbsp;<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>&nbsp;</p>


Pakistan's economy is under tremendous debt. Now, in an attempt to avoid defaulting on debt payments, Pakistan's army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa has sought help from the United States.

Pakistan's economy is under tremendous debt. Now, in an attempt to avoid defaulting on debt payments, Pakistan's army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa has sought help from the United States. Reportedly, Bajwa is attempting to persuade Washington to receive immediate loan funds amounting to $1.2 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Bajwa spoke to US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman and put forth his request. Why is Bajwa pleading with Washington? As reported extensively by WION, the cash-strapped country has been going through its worst financial crisis in recent times and needs cash liquidity on an almost urgent basis. Standing on the verge of bankruptcy, Pakistan, however, was given a glimmer of hope earlier this month when the IMF decided to resume a 2019 signed $6 billion loan programme. However, IMF kept a few pre-conditions before Islamabad prior to opening its coffers. Reportedly, Pakistan will have to raise $4 billion from friendly countries to receive the next tranche of payment. However, Pakistan does not have the means and time to generate such an amount. Thus, Bajwa is attempting to work his friends in Washington to get the process expedited. Pakistan government to sell state assets It is pertinent to note that the Pakistan government under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently brought an ordinance which grants it the power to sell state assets such as oil and gas companies to foreign nations without any checks. The move is aimed at quickly raising funds to prevent the country from defaulting on the loans. Read More: Pakistan brings ordinance allowing government to sell state assets to foreign nations The Pakistan rupee has fallen 8.3 per cent this week alone, which is being dubbed the steepest fall since 1998. According to several estimates, the neighbouring country of India needs at least $41 billion in the next 12 months to fund debt repayments and boost foreign exchange reserves that have fallen by $754 million to $8.57 billion, (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan army chief pleads Washington for early release of IMF funds

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Abhinav Singh

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.