The Election Commission of India announced on Friday that there will be nearly 986.8 million Indian voters who can cast ballots in the Lok Sabha elections this year.

Additionally, it stated that the voter list now includes nearly two crore young&nbsp;voters, or those between the ages of 18 and 29.

Since the previous Lok Sabha elections in 2019, there has been a six per cent rise in the number of registered voters.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-congresss-rahul-gandhi-promises-to-remove-50-reservation-cap-if-india-bloc-wins-polls-687295">India: Congress’ Rahul Gandhi promises to remove 50% reservation cap if INDIA bloc wins polls</a>

" With 986.8 million registered voters, India has the largest electorate in the world for the next general elections," the Election Commission said.

According to the poll panel, the gender ratio grew from 940 in 2023 to 948 in 2024.

"The Commission has placed a particular focus on the integrity and health of the electoral roll in addition to disclosures and openness during the revision process," added the&nbsp;Election Commission.

The electoral roll now has almost 2 crore new young voters in the 18–19 and 20–29 age groups. In order to encourage increased civic engagement among the younger population, Special Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs) have been formed at the constituency level to facilitate youth enrolment directly from educational institutions.

Efforts have also&nbsp;been undertaken to assist voters with disabilities (PwD) by designating around 8.835 million PwD voters in the electoral roll database, guaranteeing accessibility and inclusiveness on election day.

In an effort to make the electoral rolls the most inclusive to date, special efforts have been made to register all Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG).

Rajiv Kumar, the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), detailed the several tasks associated with updating the electoral rolls and the involvement of political parties at each step during a news conference in Pune.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Election Commission of India announced on Friday that there will be nearly 986.8 million Indian voters who can cast ballots in the Lok Sabha elections this year.

The Election Commission of India announced on Friday that there will be nearly 986.8 million Indian voters who can cast ballots in the Lok Sabha elections this year. Additionally, it stated that the voter list now includes nearly two crore young voters, or those between the ages of 18 and 29. Since the previous Lok Sabha elections in 2019, there has been a six per cent rise in the number of registered voters. Also Read: India: Congress’ Rahul Gandhi promises to remove 50% reservation cap if INDIA bloc wins polls " With 986.8 million registered voters, India has the largest electorate in the world for the next general elections," the Election Commission said. According to the poll panel, the gender ratio grew from 940 in 2023 to 948 in 2024. "The Commission has placed a particular focus on the integrity and health of the electoral roll in addition to disclosures and openness during the revision process," added the Election Commission. The electoral roll now has almost 2 crore new young voters in the 18–19 and 20–29 age groups. In order to encourage increased civic engagement among the younger population, Special Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs) have been formed at the constituency level to facilitate youth enrolment directly from educational institutions. Efforts have also been undertaken to assist voters with disabilities (PwD) by designating around 8.835 million PwD voters in the electoral roll database, guaranteeing accessibility and inclusiveness on election day. In an effort to make the electoral rolls the most inclusive to date, special efforts have been made to register all Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG). Rajiv Kumar, the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), detailed the several tasks associated with updating the electoral rolls and the involvement of political parties at each step during a news conference in Pune. (With inputs from agencies)

India General Elections 2024: 986.8 million people registered to vote, says Election Commission

Considered to be among the most beautiful places on Earth, Jammu and Kashmir is well-known for its gorgeous vistas and verdant valleys. It's a place that's covered in pure snow in the winter. Indian Railways has posted a stunning video of the area that shows both the snow-covered landscape and a train passing through it.

Indian Railways encouraged viewers to "Experience the breathtaking vista of a snow-clad Jammu and Kashmir with Indian Railways" in a tweet that went along with the video. The footage, which is a composite of several brief recordings, is expected to astound viewers.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ancient-statue-of-lord-vishnu-found-in-krishna-river-has-features-similar-to-ram-lalla-idol-report-688925">Ancient statue of Lord Vishnu found in Krishna river has striking resemblance to Ram Lalla idol: Report</a>

The footage opens with a charming view of a train stopping&nbsp;in the middle of a snowy setting, emphasising the remarkable sight of the train covered with snow. The train exhibits the region's winter beauty as it moves gently across several scenes in the video.

Watch this engrossing video to see the magical drive across Jammu and Kashmir coated in snow:

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Experience the stunning view of a snow-clad Jammu and Kashmir with Indian Railways. <a href="https://t.co/5xBHV67hT4">pic.twitter.com/5xBHV67hT4</a>
— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/RailMinIndia/status/1756188066933260358?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Just a few hours after it was posted, the video has amassed an astonishing 30,000 views and almost 1,000 likes on Twitter. The internet community responded quickly; one person wrote, "This is amazing," while another enthusiastically stated, "Next year's vacation confirmed." A third fan used the thumbs-up emoticon to express agreement.

Positive responses have been generated by the enthralling visual voyage across the snow-covered hills of Jammu &amp; Kashmir. Were you awestruck by the video? This amazing footage shows off the area's wintertime picturesque magnificence.

(With inputs from agencies)

Considered to be among the most beautiful places on Earth, Jammu and Kashmir is well-known for its gorgeous vistas and verdant valleys. It's a place that's covered in pure snow in the winter.

Considered to be among the most beautiful places on Earth, Jammu and Kashmir is well-known for its gorgeous vistas and verdant valleys. It's a place that's covered in pure snow in the winter. Indian Railways has posted a stunning video of the area that shows both the snow-covered landscape and a train passing through it. Indian Railways encouraged viewers to "Experience the breathtaking vista of a snow-clad Jammu and Kashmir with Indian Railways" in a tweet that went along with the video. The footage, which is a composite of several brief recordings, is expected to astound viewers. Also Read: Ancient statue of Lord Vishnu found in Krishna river has striking resemblance to Ram Lalla idol: Report The footage opens with a charming view of a train stopping in the middle of a snowy setting, emphasising the remarkable sight of the train covered with snow. The train exhibits the region's winter beauty as it moves gently across several scenes in the video. Watch this engrossing video to see the magical drive across Jammu and Kashmir coated in snow: Experience the stunning view of a snow-clad Jammu and Kashmir with Indian Railways. pic.twitter.com/5xBHV67hT4 — Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) February 10, 2024 × Just a few hours after it was posted, the video has amassed an astonishing 30,000 views and almost 1,000 likes on Twitter. The internet community responded quickly; one person wrote, "This is amazing," while another enthusiastically stated, "Next year's vacation confirmed." A third fan used the thumbs-up emoticon to express agreement. Positive responses have been generated by the enthralling visual voyage across the snow-covered hills of Jammu & Kashmir. Were you awestruck by the video? This amazing footage shows off the area's wintertime picturesque magnificence. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Train travels through Jammu and Kashmir covered in snow; Indian Railways posts captivating footage

Russia said on Saturday it had repelled an attempted Ukrainian drone attack on Russian "civilian transport ships" on Friday evening in the southwestern part of the Black Sea, a key artery for grain and oil exports from both countries.

Civilian vessels on the Black Sea have not generally been targeted since Moscow ordered its troops into Ukraine in February 2022, but last July both sides said they would start treating ships headed to the other's ports as potential carriers of military cargo.

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In a statement posted on the Telegram messaging app, Russia's Defence Ministry said Ukraine had attempted what it called "a terrorist attack on Russian civilian transport ships using semi-submersible naval drones".

It said Russian patrol boats and warplanes had averted the attack, destroying one Ukrainian naval drone by artillery fire and disabling the rest by electronic warfare. No Russian civilian or military vessels were damaged, it said.

Reuters could not verify the Russian account. There was no immediate comment from Ukraine.

Last July, Russia refused to renew a Turkish-brokered deal providing for safe grain exports through the region and said all ships heading to Ukrainian ports would be treated as potential carriers of military cargo.

A day later, Ukraine said it would adopt the same stance on ships bound for Russian and Russian-controlled Ukrainian ports.

It was not clear precisely where the attack took place. The southwestern part of the Black Sea adjoins Turkey's Bosphorus Strait through which cargoes leaving the sea travel.

Ukraine has in recent months mounted a series of drone and missile attacks on Russian military targets in the Black Sea, sinking at least one naval vessel and damaging others.

Russia said on Saturday it had repelled an attempted Ukrainian drone attack on Russian "civilian transport ships" on Friday evening in the southwestern part of the Black Sea, a key artery for grain and oil exports from both countries.

Russia said on Saturday it had repelled an attempted Ukrainian drone attack on Russian "civilian transport ships" on Friday evening in the southwestern part of the Black Sea, a key artery for grain and oil exports from both countries. Civilian vessels on the Black Sea have not generally been targeted since Moscow ordered its troops into Ukraine in February 2022, but last July both sides said they would start treating ships headed to the other's ports as potential carriers of military cargo. Also Read: Ukraine needs to come up with new strategies to battle, says new Army Chief In a statement posted on the Telegram messaging app, Russia's Defence Ministry said Ukraine had attempted what it called "a terrorist attack on Russian civilian transport ships using semi-submersible naval drones". It said Russian patrol boats and warplanes had averted the attack, destroying one Ukrainian naval drone by artillery fire and disabling the rest by electronic warfare. No Russian civilian or military vessels were damaged, it said. Reuters could not verify the Russian account. There was no immediate comment from Ukraine. Last July, Russia refused to renew a Turkish-brokered deal providing for safe grain exports through the region and said all ships heading to Ukrainian ports would be treated as potential carriers of military cargo. A day later, Ukraine said it would adopt the same stance on ships bound for Russian and Russian-controlled Ukrainian ports. It was not clear precisely where the attack took place. The southwestern part of the Black Sea adjoins Turkey's Bosphorus Strait through which cargoes leaving the sea travel. Ukraine has in recent months mounted a series of drone and missile attacks on Russian military targets in the Black Sea, sinking at least one naval vessel and damaging others.

Russia says it foiled Ukrainian drone attack on civilian cargo ships in Black Sea

Saudi Arabia demanded on Saturday that the UN Security Council step in and stop Israel's planned army assault in Rafah, calling it a "humanitarian catastrophe."

The foreign ministry statement, which was aired by state media, stated that the kingdom "strongly condemns and rejects the extremely dangerous consequences of storming and targeting" Rafah. It also reiterated its "categorical rejection" of their forcible deportation.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israeli-army-accused-of-deliberately-attacking-ambulance-killing-six-year-old-girl-688966">Gaza war: Israeli Army accused of deliberately attacking ambulance, killing six-year-old girl</a>

The statement went on, "This ongoing violation of international humanitarian law and international law reinforces the importance of convening the Security Council promptly to prevent Israel from triggering an imminent humanitarian catastrophe."

On Friday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave the army orders to get ready to evacuate Rafah's civilian population in advance of a scheduled ground offensive against Hamas in the city.

In the far south of Gaza, the city has become the home of over a million Palestinian refugees, many of whom are camped out in tents between the sea and Egypt borders.

Saudi Arabia, which is home to some of the most sacred places in Islam, has never recognised Israel but had discussed doing so before to the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October.

Around 1,160 people, primarily civilians, were killed in an attack on southern Israel by Hamas terrorists, which set off the battle, according to an AFP count based on official Israeli numbers.

Israel began a large military attack in Gaza with the goal of eliminating Hamas. According to the health ministry of Hamas-run territory, the offensive has killed at least 27,947 individuals.

While denouncing Israeli "aggression" in Gaza, Riyadh has called for a ceasefire several times.

Although US President Joe Biden's administration has expressed hope that normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel will be restored, Saudi Arabia claimed this week that it had informed Washington that it would not forge diplomatic ties with Israel until an independent Palestinian state was "recognized" and Israeli soldiers withdrew from Gaza.

The leaders of Hamas in Gaza issued a warning on Saturday, claiming that "tens of thousands" of people could die as a result of Israeli operations in Rafah.

Mahmud Abbas, the president of Palestine, said in his office that the action is "a clear violation of all red lines" and "threatens security and peace in the area in the world."

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia demanded on Saturday that the UN Security Council step in and stop Israel's planned army assault in Rafah, calling it a "humanitarian catastrophe." The foreign ministry statement, which was aired by state media, stated that the kingdom "strongly condemns and rejects the extremely dangerous consequences of storming and targeting" Rafah.

Saudi Arabia demanded on Saturday that the UN Security Council step in and stop Israel's planned army assault in Rafah, calling it a "humanitarian catastrophe." The foreign ministry statement, which was aired by state media, stated that the kingdom "strongly condemns and rejects the extremely dangerous consequences of storming and targeting" Rafah. It also reiterated its "categorical rejection" of their forcible deportation. Also Read: Gaza war: Israeli Army accused of deliberately attacking ambulance, killing six-year-old girl The statement went on, "This ongoing violation of international humanitarian law and international law reinforces the importance of convening the Security Council promptly to prevent Israel from triggering an imminent humanitarian catastrophe." On Friday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave the army orders to get ready to evacuate Rafah's civilian population in advance of a scheduled ground offensive against Hamas in the city. In the far south of Gaza, the city has become the home of over a million Palestinian refugees, many of whom are camped out in tents between the sea and Egypt borders. Saudi Arabia, which is home to some of the most sacred places in Islam, has never recognised Israel but had discussed doing so before to the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October. Around 1,160 people, primarily civilians, were killed in an attack on southern Israel by Hamas terrorists, which set off the battle, according to an AFP count based on official Israeli numbers. Israel began a large military attack in Gaza with the goal of eliminating Hamas. According to the health ministry of Hamas-run territory, the offensive has killed at least 27,947 individuals. While denouncing Israeli "aggression" in Gaza, Riyadh has called for a ceasefire several times. Although US President Joe Biden's administration has expressed hope that normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel will be restored, Saudi Arabia claimed this week that it had informed Washington that it would not forge diplomatic ties with Israel until an independent Palestinian state was "recognized" and Israeli soldiers withdrew from Gaza. The leaders of Hamas in Gaza issued a warning on Saturday, claiming that "tens of thousands" of people could die as a result of Israeli operations in Rafah. Mahmud Abbas, the president of Palestine, said in his office that the action is "a clear violation of all red lines" and "threatens security and peace in the area in the world." (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia threatens ‘catastrophe’ if Israel strikes Rafah; Gaza death toll crosses 28,000

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Saturday that the 2019 Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) will be put into effect prior to this year's Lok Sabha elections after the relevant regulations are issued. 
 
Lambasting the opposition,&nbsp;Amit Shah said at an event in New Delhi, "They're misleading and inciting our Muslim brothers (to oppose the CAA).&nbsp;Only people who fled persecution in Pakistan, Afghanistan, or Bangladesh and arrived in India are intended to be granted citizenship under the CAA. The purpose of it is not to take away someone's Indian citizenship."&nbsp;

The Union Minister predicted that the NDA will win over 400 seats and the BJP would win 370 seats in the next elections, allowing Prime Minister Narendra Modi to head the government for a record three terms. Shah asserted that there is no suspense over the outcome of the Lok Sabha polls and even the Congress and other opposition parties have realised that they will again have to sit on the opposition benches.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-home-minister-amit-shah-reiterates-no-one-can-stop-implementation-of-caa-674070">Home Minister Amit Shah reiterates ‘no one can stop’ implementation of CAA</a>

"We revoked Article 370 (of the Constitution, which granted the former state of Jammu and Kashmir a special status). Therefore, it is our belief that the nation's voters will grant the BJP 370 seats and the NDA nearly 400 seats," Shah added.

The home minister indicated that more parties might join the ruling coalition when asked if the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD)&nbsp;led by Jayant Choudhary, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), and a few other regional parties could join the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).&nbsp;The BJP "believes in family planning but not in politics", indicating that more parties may join the coalition.&nbsp;When pressed further on SAD, he said, "Talks are going on but nothing has been finalised."

Shah stated that the election of 2024 will be between development and those who offer just platitudes, rather than between the NDA and the opposition coalition in India.

When asked about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra, he responded that the Nehru-Gandhi scion had no right to carry out the march because his party was in charge of the nation's 1947 partition. 
 
Shah explained that the timeliness of the government's white paper before Parliament was essential, stating that the nation had a right to know about the devastation the United Progressive Alliance (UPA), led by the Congress, left behind when it was voted out of power by the people in 2014.

"The economy was in rough shape in 2014. Scams were everywhere. There were no foreign investments coming in. The world would have received the wrong impression if we had brought out a white paper at that moment."

"However, ten years later, our administration has brought in foreign investment, revitalised the economy, and eradicated all corruption. Thus, it is the appropriate moment to release the white paper," he stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Saturday that the 2019 Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) will be put into effect prior to this year's Lok Sabha elections after the relevant regulations are issued.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Saturday that the 2019 Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) will be put into effect prior to this year's Lok Sabha elections after the relevant regulations are issued. Lambasting the opposition, Amit Shah said at an event in New Delhi, "They're misleading and inciting our Muslim brothers (to oppose the CAA). Only people who fled persecution in Pakistan, Afghanistan, or Bangladesh and arrived in India are intended to be granted citizenship under the CAA. The purpose of it is not to take away someone's Indian citizenship." The Union Minister predicted that the NDA will win over 400 seats and the BJP would win 370 seats in the next elections, allowing Prime Minister Narendra Modi to head the government for a record three terms. Shah asserted that there is no suspense over the outcome of the Lok Sabha polls and even the Congress and other opposition parties have realised that they will again have to sit on the opposition benches. Also Read: Home Minister Amit Shah reiterates ‘no one can stop’ implementation of CAA "We revoked Article 370 (of the Constitution, which granted the former state of Jammu and Kashmir a special status). Therefore, it is our belief that the nation's voters will grant the BJP 370 seats and the NDA nearly 400 seats," Shah added. The home minister indicated that more parties might join the ruling coalition when asked if the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) led by Jayant Choudhary, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), and a few other regional parties could join the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The BJP "believes in family planning but not in politics", indicating that more parties may join the coalition. When pressed further on SAD, he said, "Talks are going on but nothing has been finalised." Shah stated that the election of 2024 will be between development and those who offer just platitudes, rather than between the NDA and the opposition coalition in India. When asked about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra, he responded that the Nehru-Gandhi scion had no right to carry out the march because his party was in charge of the nation's 1947 partition. Shah explained that the timeliness of the government's white paper before Parliament was essential, stating that the nation had a right to know about the devastation the United Progressive Alliance (UPA), led by the Congress, left behind when it was voted out of power by the people in 2014. "The economy was in rough shape in 2014. Scams were everywhere. There were no foreign investments coming in. The world would have received the wrong impression if we had brought out a white paper at that moment." "However, ten years later, our administration has brought in foreign investment, revitalised the economy, and eradicated all corruption. Thus, it is the appropriate moment to release the white paper," he stated. (With inputs from agencies)

India: CAA will be implemented before upcoming Lok Sabha elections, says Amit Shah

Indian&nbsp;Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday presented a ‘White Paper’in the Parliament&nbsp;describing the economic conditions of the country during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government led by Congress&nbsp;from 2004 to 2014. According to the document, the UPA government established obstacles that hindered economic activity and failed miserably.

According to the document, the Narendra Modi administration took over a non-performing economy, whereas the UPA inherited a healthy economy from the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government.

<meta name="generator" content="quillbot-pphr" />One of the most significant and 'notorious legacies' of the UPA government was the financial crisis, according to the White Paper on the Indian Economy, which FM Nirmala Sitharaman placed before the Lok Sabha.

The Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) ratio in Public Sector banks was 16.0% when the Vajpayee-led NDA administration began office and decreased to 7.8% when they left. This ratio, which includes restructured loans, increased to 12.3% in September 2013 mostly as a result of political meddling by the UPA government in public sector banks' choices about commercial lending, stated the white paper.

The Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, presented the white paper in the&nbsp;Parliament a few weeks prior to the general elections.

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According to the document, the outcome included a pile of bad loans, a significant current account deficit, double-digit inflation for five years that affected many Indians financially, and membership in the Fragile Five group in 2013.

" They not only failed to infuse the economy with vitality, but they also deprived it of it to the point where our businessmen publicly said that they would choose to make investments overseas rather than in India," read the document.

It further states that the economy was developing at&nbsp;8 per cent in 2004, the year&nbsp;UPA coalition took office against a stable global economic backdrop, with growth in the industry and services sectors exceeding 7 per cent each and the agriculture sector rebounding beyond 9 per cent in FY04.

In an effort to preserve rapid economic development following the 2008 global financial crisis, the UPA government seriously weakened the macroeconomic underpinnings, according to the report. It continues, stating that severe mismanagement and apathy caused the economy to falter.

BJP MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi said, "The country was pushed back 10 years due to financial mismanagement. They are speaking a lot of things today but they ruled for 50 years. Why did they not do anything? So, this has to be told to the Government."

The document also mentioned scams during the UPA government:&nbsp;

2G Telecom scam: According to the CAG's assessment, this resulted in a loss of around &lt;1.76 lakh crore in potential government revenue (based on the rates paid for 3G spectrum). The appellate court is hearing cases related to corruption.

Commonwealth Games: Widespread corruption, poor project management, and financial irregularities in the design and implementation of different games-related projects ruined the occasion.

Coal Block Allocation: An estimated `1.86 lakh crore was lost to the exchequer as a result of the financial scandal involving irregularities and corruption in the government's allotment of coal blocks to private entities for captive usage, according to the CAG31.

Saradha Chit Fund: This was a Ponzi scheme that lured investors in with the promise of large returns while diverting funds for personal use.

(With agencies input)

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday presented a ‘White Paper’in the Parliament describing the economic conditions of the country during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government led by Congress from 2004 to 2014.

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday presented a ‘White Paper’in the Parliament describing the economic conditions of the country during the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government led by Congress from 2004 to 2014. According to the document, the UPA government established obstacles that hindered economic activity and failed miserably. According to the document, the Narendra Modi administration took over a non-performing economy, whereas the UPA inherited a healthy economy from the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. One of the most significant and 'notorious legacies' of the UPA government was the financial crisis, according to the White Paper on the Indian Economy, which FM Nirmala Sitharaman placed before the Lok Sabha. The Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) ratio in Public Sector banks was 16.0% when the Vajpayee-led NDA administration began office and decreased to 7.8% when they left. This ratio, which includes restructured loans, increased to 12.3% in September 2013 mostly as a result of political meddling by the UPA government in public sector banks' choices about commercial lending, stated the white paper. The Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, presented the white paper in the Parliament a few weeks prior to the general elections. Also Read: What is White Paper? India's budget session extended by a day According to the document, the outcome included a pile of bad loans, a significant current account deficit, double-digit inflation for five years that affected many Indians financially, and membership in the Fragile Five group in 2013. " They not only failed to infuse the economy with vitality, but they also deprived it of it to the point where our businessmen publicly said that they would choose to make investments overseas rather than in India," read the document. It further states that the economy was developing at 8 per cent in 2004, the year UPA coalition took office against a stable global economic backdrop, with growth in the industry and services sectors exceeding 7 per cent each and the agriculture sector rebounding beyond 9 per cent in FY04. In an effort to preserve rapid economic development following the 2008 global financial crisis, the UPA government seriously weakened the macroeconomic underpinnings, according to the report. It continues, stating that severe mismanagement and apathy caused the economy to falter. BJP MP Pratap Chandra Sarangi said, "The country was pushed back 10 years due to financial mismanagement. They are speaking a lot of things today but they ruled for 50 years. Why did they not do anything? So, this has to be told to the Government." The document also mentioned scams during the UPA government: 2G Telecom scam: According to the CAG's assessment, this resulted in a loss of around <1.76 lakh crore in potential government revenue (based on the rates paid for 3G spectrum). The appellate court is hearing cases related to corruption. Commonwealth Games: Widespread corruption, poor project management, and financial irregularities in the design and implementation of different games-related projects ruined the occasion. Coal Block Allocation: An estimated `1.86 lakh crore was lost to the exchequer as a result of the financial scandal involving irregularities and corruption in the government's allotment of coal blocks to private entities for captive usage, according to the CAG31. Saradha Chit Fund: This was a Ponzi scheme that lured investors in with the promise of large returns while diverting funds for personal use. (With agencies input)

Indian finance minister lists 'legacies' of scams during UPA reign as she tables White Paper on economy

Ukraine on Friday said a Russian strike on the northeastern region of Sumy killed three people and wounded four others.

The Sumy region borders Russia and has been targeted throughout Moscow's almost two-year invasion, but is far from fighting hotspots that lie further south.

"Three dead and four injured: the consequences of a Russian airstrike in the Sumy region," Ukraine's interior minister, Igor Klymenko, said on Telegram.

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He said the victims were in a village "workshop of an agriculture firm" that was hit.

Klymenko said Russia launched seven guided bombs in the Sumy district.

He did not name the village but posted a photo of rescuers working through the rubble of what appeared to be a small destroyed building.

"The police and rescuers are working to eliminate the consequences of the shelling," Klymenko said.&nbsp; 
Russian forces entered Sumy but were pushed back at the start of their invasion in 2022.

Ukraine on Friday said a Russian strike on the northeastern region of Sumy killed three people and wounded four others. The Sumy region borders Russia and has been targeted throughout Moscow's almost two-year invasion, but is far from fighting hotspots that lie further south.

Ukraine on Friday said a Russian strike on the northeastern region of Sumy killed three people and wounded four others. The Sumy region borders Russia and has been targeted throughout Moscow's almost two-year invasion, but is far from fighting hotspots that lie further south. "Three dead and four injured: the consequences of a Russian airstrike in the Sumy region," Ukraine's interior minister, Igor Klymenko, said on Telegram. Also Read: Vladimir Putin mocks Tucker Carlson for being rejected by CIA He said the victims were in a village "workshop of an agriculture firm" that was hit. Klymenko said Russia launched seven guided bombs in the Sumy district. He did not name the village but posted a photo of rescuers working through the rubble of what appeared to be a small destroyed building. "The police and rescuers are working to eliminate the consequences of the shelling," Klymenko said. Russian forces entered Sumy but were pushed back at the start of their invasion in 2022.

Ukraine says Russian strike kills three, injures four

Indonesian presidential contender Prabowo Subianto is projected to pip the 50% threshold needed to win the Feb. 14 election in a single round, the latest opinion poll showed on Friday.

Of the 1,200 people surveyed by Indikator Politik Indonesia between Jan. 28 and Feb 4, 51.8% said they would vote for Prabowo's ticket, while 24.1% and 19.6% would choose rivals Anies Baswedan and Ganjar Pranowo respectively.

This election marks the third presidential run for Defence Minister Prabowo, a controversial ex-soldier who was defeated by the popular outgoing President Joko Widodo in 2014 and 2019. About 205 million people are registered to vote.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-indonesian-presidential-elections-contenders-and-issues-651168" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-indonesian-presidential-elections-contenders-and-issues-651168&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiOpLDwjZ6EAxUes1YBHRbODEcQFnoECAQQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1JYwQQrUbL93gedvN4qFdv" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-indonesian-presidential-elections-contenders-and-issues-651168" target="_blank">Explained |&nbsp;Indonesian&nbsp;presidential elections, contenders</a>

While most of Indonesia's most watched surveys have consistently showed Prabowo with a solid lead over rivals, Friday's poll is the first in which he is projected to get more than 50% of votes.

A run-off will be held in June if no candidate gets more than 50% of votes.

"Conservatively, there is a chance of a run-off. But given the 51.8% and the upward trend for Prabowo's ticket, I can say the probability of one round has risen...compared to previous surveys," said Indikator researcher Burhanuddin Muhtadi.

He said the chances of a second round vote were "thinning".

About 4.5% of those surveyed were undecided. The margin of error of the survey was about 2.9%.

The survey comes as public criticism mounts against Widodo, better known as Jokowi, who has been accused of interference and bias over his implicit support for Prabowo, which his allies have denied.

Critics have complained Jokowi has made appearances at state functions alongside Prabowo, in breach of rules.

Jokowi has not explicitly endorsed any of the three candidates. The president's son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, is Prabowo's running mate, owing to a last-minute decision by a court headed by Jokowi's brother-in-law to change eligibility rules.

Nearly 90% of those surveyed by Indikator said they believed the president supports Prabowo, more so than Anies and Ganjar, who is the candidate of Jokowi's ruling party.

Jokowi has said he would not campaign for any candidate. Incumbents have typically stayed neutral and Indonesian law permits them to campaign as long as they do not use state resources.

Indonesian presidential contender Prabowo Subianto is projected to pip the 50% threshold needed to win the Feb. 14 election in a single round, the latest opinion poll showed on Friday.

Indonesian presidential contender Prabowo Subianto is projected to pip the 50% threshold needed to win the Feb. 14 election in a single round, the latest opinion poll showed on Friday. Of the 1,200 people surveyed by Indikator Politik Indonesia between Jan. 28 and Feb 4, 51.8% said they would vote for Prabowo's ticket, while 24.1% and 19.6% would choose rivals Anies Baswedan and Ganjar Pranowo respectively. This election marks the third presidential run for Defence Minister Prabowo, a controversial ex-soldier who was defeated by the popular outgoing President Joko Widodo in 2014 and 2019. About 205 million people are registered to vote. Also Read: Explained | Indonesian presidential elections, contenders While most of Indonesia's most watched surveys have consistently showed Prabowo with a solid lead over rivals, Friday's poll is the first in which he is projected to get more than 50% of votes. A run-off will be held in June if no candidate gets more than 50% of votes. "Conservatively, there is a chance of a run-off. But given the 51.8% and the upward trend for Prabowo's ticket, I can say the probability of one round has risen...compared to previous surveys," said Indikator researcher Burhanuddin Muhtadi. He said the chances of a second round vote were "thinning". About 4.5% of those surveyed were undecided. The margin of error of the survey was about 2.9%. The survey comes as public criticism mounts against Widodo, better known as Jokowi, who has been accused of interference and bias over his implicit support for Prabowo, which his allies have denied. Critics have complained Jokowi has made appearances at state functions alongside Prabowo, in breach of rules. Jokowi has not explicitly endorsed any of the three candidates. The president's son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, is Prabowo's running mate, owing to a last-minute decision by a court headed by Jokowi's brother-in-law to change eligibility rules. Nearly 90% of those surveyed by Indikator said they believed the president supports Prabowo, more so than Anies and Ganjar, who is the candidate of Jokowi's ruling party. Jokowi has said he would not campaign for any candidate. Incumbents have typically stayed neutral and Indonesian law permits them to campaign as long as they do not use state resources.

Indonesia poll projects Prabowo gaining majority votes in presidential election

After Uddhav Sena leader Abhishek Ghosalkar was shot dead, Devendra Fadnavis claimed that the murder of Mauris Noronha had nothing to do with Maharashtra's law and order situation.

Devendra Fadnavis, the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, called the killing of Shiv Sena leader Abhishek Ghosalkar by Mauris Noronha during a Facebook Live event very serious and unfortunate on Friday.

The Mumbai Police have discovered some motives for the murders, according to Devendra Fadnavis and they will be released shortly.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-politicians-son-shot-dead-on-facebook-live-in-mumbai-688376">India: Shiv Sena (UBT) politician's son shot dead during Facebook live</a>

"It is deeply regrettable and extremely terrible that young leader Abhishek Ghosalkar was killed. It was the result of animosity between people. Abhishek Ghosalkar and his assassin, Mauris Noronha, popularly known as "Morris Bhai," were frequently spotted together. Even in 2024, their posters were shown together.

There must have been some differences that led to this. Some of the reasons that the police have discovered will soon be made public, Devendra Fadnavis informed reporters.

"The Opposition is doing politics over it, but it's their job," Fadnavis said.

Abhishek Ghosalkar was shot in the abdomen and shoulder in the incident, which happened on Thursday night at Mauris Noronha's office in IC Colony, as seen in a widely shared video. Mauris Noronha committed suicide after the icident. The Mumbai Crime Branch has taken up the probe.

Ajit Pawar, the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, also responded to the tragedy, calling the murder wrong and unfortunate and promising a thorough investigation to determine what caused the crime.

Devendra Fadnavis' resignation was demanded by Sharad Pawar's NCP group in response to Abhishek Ghosalkar's death.

Clyde Crasto, national spokesperson of Nationalist Congress Party – Sharadchandra Pawar said the law and order situation has gone out of control in Maharashtra.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and MP Sanjay Raut demanded the resignation of chief minister Eknath Shinde and his deputy Devendra Fadnavis.

(With inputs from agencies)

After Uddhav Sena leader Abhishek Ghosalkar was shot dead, Devendra Fadnavis claimed that the murder of Mauris Noronha had nothing to do with Maharashtra's law and order situation.

After Uddhav Sena leader Abhishek Ghosalkar was shot dead, Devendra Fadnavis claimed that the murder of Mauris Noronha had nothing to do with Maharashtra's law and order situation. Devendra Fadnavis, the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, called the killing of Shiv Sena leader Abhishek Ghosalkar by Mauris Noronha during a Facebook Live event very serious and unfortunate on Friday. The Mumbai Police have discovered some motives for the murders, according to Devendra Fadnavis and they will be released shortly. Also Read: India: Shiv Sena (UBT) politician's son shot dead during Facebook live "It is deeply regrettable and extremely terrible that young leader Abhishek Ghosalkar was killed. It was the result of animosity between people. Abhishek Ghosalkar and his assassin, Mauris Noronha, popularly known as "Morris Bhai," were frequently spotted together. Even in 2024, their posters were shown together. There must have been some differences that led to this. Some of the reasons that the police have discovered will soon be made public, Devendra Fadnavis informed reporters. "The Opposition is doing politics over it, but it's their job," Fadnavis said. Abhishek Ghosalkar was shot in the abdomen and shoulder in the incident, which happened on Thursday night at Mauris Noronha's office in IC Colony, as seen in a widely shared video. Mauris Noronha committed suicide after the icident. The Mumbai Crime Branch has taken up the probe. Ajit Pawar, the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, also responded to the tragedy, calling the murder wrong and unfortunate and promising a thorough investigation to determine what caused the crime. Devendra Fadnavis' resignation was demanded by Sharad Pawar's NCP group in response to Abhishek Ghosalkar's death. Clyde Crasto, national spokesperson of Nationalist Congress Party – Sharadchandra Pawar said the law and order situation has gone out of control in Maharashtra. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and MP Sanjay Raut demanded the resignation of chief minister Eknath Shinde and his deputy Devendra Fadnavis. (With inputs from agencies)

India: 'It is deeply regrettable and saddening: Devendra Fadnavis on Abhishek Ghosalkar's murder

The British Antarctic Survey and researchers at the University of Cambridge have found the first concrete proof that the West Antarctic Ice Sheet abruptly and dramatically shrank eight thousand years ago, at the end of the Last Ice Age.

Evidence from an ice core reveals that in one place, the ice sheet thinned by 450 meters in less than 200 years, which is greater than the height of the Empire State Building.

This is the first sign of such a rapid ice loss that has been found anywhere in Antarctica. Scientists are concerned that the West Antarctic Ice Sheet may eventually become unstable due to the present warming trends, possibly reaching a tipping point and causing a rapid collapse.

The new study&nbsp;published on February 8, in Nature Geoscience&nbsp;provides insight into how quickly Antarctic ice could melt if temperatures continue to rise.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/antarctica-likely-warming-much-faster-than-prediction-of-climate-change-models-study-633633">Antarctica likely warming much faster than climate change models predicted: Study</a>

The senior author of the new study from Cambridge Department of Earth Sciences, Professor Eric Wolff, stated, "We now have direct evidence that this ice sheet suffered rapid ice loss in the past. If portions of this ice sheet become unstable, this scenario could occur again and is not limited to the predictions of our model."

Enough freshwater is there in the Antarctic ice sheets from west to east to increase sea levels worldwide by about 57 meters. Because so much of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet rests on bedrock that is below sea level, it is thought to be especially vulnerable.

Sea levels could rise if a significant portion of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet disappears in the coming centuries, according to model projections.

Dr. Isobel Rowell, a British Antarctic Survey study co-author, explained, "We wanted to know what happened to the West Antarctic Ice Sheet at the end of the Last Ice Age, when temperatures on Earth were rising, albeit at a slower rate than current anthropogenic warming. We can go back in time and estimate the thickness and extent of the ice sheet using ice cores."

"The exact date of the ice thinned was unknown, but we already knew from models that it happened around this time," Rowell said. Models of the ice sheet indicated that the retreat occurred between 12,000 and 5,000 years ago, but they were unable to pinpoint its exact timing. "It is possible to incorporate this precisely dated observation of that retreat into better models," stated Rowell.

(With inputs from agencies)

The British Antarctic Survey and researchers at the University of Cambridge have found the first concrete proof that the West Antarctic Ice Sheet abruptly and dramatically shrank eight thousand years ago, at the end of the Last Ice Age.

The British Antarctic Survey and researchers at the University of Cambridge have found the first concrete proof that the West Antarctic Ice Sheet abruptly and dramatically shrank eight thousand years ago, at the end of the Last Ice Age. Evidence from an ice core reveals that in one place, the ice sheet thinned by 450 meters in less than 200 years, which is greater than the height of the Empire State Building. This is the first sign of such a rapid ice loss that has been found anywhere in Antarctica. Scientists are concerned that the West Antarctic Ice Sheet may eventually become unstable due to the present warming trends, possibly reaching a tipping point and causing a rapid collapse. The new study published on February 8, in Nature Geoscience provides insight into how quickly Antarctic ice could melt if temperatures continue to rise. Also Read: Antarctica likely warming much faster than climate change models predicted: Study The senior author of the new study from Cambridge Department of Earth Sciences, Professor Eric Wolff, stated, "We now have direct evidence that this ice sheet suffered rapid ice loss in the past. If portions of this ice sheet become unstable, this scenario could occur again and is not limited to the predictions of our model." Enough freshwater is there in the Antarctic ice sheets from west to east to increase sea levels worldwide by about 57 meters. Because so much of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet rests on bedrock that is below sea level, it is thought to be especially vulnerable. Sea levels could rise if a significant portion of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet disappears in the coming centuries, according to model projections. Dr. Isobel Rowell, a British Antarctic Survey study co-author, explained, "We wanted to know what happened to the West Antarctic Ice Sheet at the end of the Last Ice Age, when temperatures on Earth were rising, albeit at a slower rate than current anthropogenic warming. We can go back in time and estimate the thickness and extent of the ice sheet using ice cores." "The exact date of the ice thinned was unknown, but we already knew from models that it happened around this time," Rowell said. Models of the ice sheet indicated that the retreat occurred between 12,000 and 5,000 years ago, but they were unable to pinpoint its exact timing. "It is possible to incorporate this precisely dated observation of that retreat into better models," stated Rowell. (With inputs from agencies)

Ice cores show quick loss of Antarctic ice 8,000 years ago

Another airline has begun to request volunteers to step on the scales before the takeoff. Finnair is now tracking the weights of its passengers on volunteer basis as part of its aircraft balance calculations.

In order to update its average weight&nbsp;and comply with civil aviation authorities'&nbsp;requirements, the Finnish airline is requesting its passengers to have their hand bags weighed at the departure gate.

"The weighing information is used for the average computations necessary for the safe operation of flights and it is not connected in any manner to the personal information of the customers," Satu Munnukka, the head of ground processes at Finnair, said in a statement. Name of the passengers&nbsp;or booking numbers are not recorded along with their weight.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-the-top-7-airlines-in-the-world-598652" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-the-top-7-airlines-in-the-world-598652&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwixqdOPn5yEAxWOTmwGHeydBno4FBAWegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1nYmUfBHuTXt3BFPc7wPfJ" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-the-top-7-airlines-in-the-world-598652" target="_blank">In Pics | The top 7&nbsp;airlines&nbsp;in the world&nbsp;</a>

As of Wednesday, 600 travellers had offered to be weighed, according to a Finnair representative, reported&nbsp; The Guardian. Individuals received a free baggage tag in exchange for agreeing to be weighed.

According to Finnair, the information will be gathered in February, April, and May for a range of flights that leave from the airline's hub in Helsinki.

Authorities demand that Finnair update its passenger weight readings every five years. According to the statement, data for the most recent round was gathered in 2017 and 2018.

For the purpose of calculating aircraft mass and balance, the European Aviation Safety Authority also gathers its own statistics on passenger weight. It’s most recent study, conducted in 2022, revealed that there has been no discernible change in the average passenger weight from the 2009 study.

In order to gain a better understanding of average weights for safety, passengers on Hawaiian Airlines, Air New Zealand, and Korean Air have made similar requests in the past year. In 2015 the Uzbekistan Airlines&nbsp;introduced the rule of weighing passengers.

(With inputs from agencies)

Another airline has begun to request volunteers to step on the scales before the takeoff. Finnair is now tracking the weights of its passengers on volunteer basis as part of its aircraft balance calculations.

Another airline has begun to request volunteers to step on the scales before the takeoff. Finnair is now tracking the weights of its passengers on volunteer basis as part of its aircraft balance calculations. In order to update its average weight and comply with civil aviation authorities' requirements, the Finnish airline is requesting its passengers to have their hand bags weighed at the departure gate. "The weighing information is used for the average computations necessary for the safe operation of flights and it is not connected in any manner to the personal information of the customers," Satu Munnukka, the head of ground processes at Finnair, said in a statement. Name of the passengers or booking numbers are not recorded along with their weight. Also Read: In Pics | The top 7 airlines in the world As of Wednesday, 600 travellers had offered to be weighed, according to a Finnair representative, reported The Guardian. Individuals received a free baggage tag in exchange for agreeing to be weighed. According to Finnair, the information will be gathered in February, April, and May for a range of flights that leave from the airline's hub in Helsinki. Authorities demand that Finnair update its passenger weight readings every five years. According to the statement, data for the most recent round was gathered in 2017 and 2018. For the purpose of calculating aircraft mass and balance, the European Aviation Safety Authority also gathers its own statistics on passenger weight. It’s most recent study, conducted in 2022, revealed that there has been no discernible change in the average passenger weight from the 2009 study. In order to gain a better understanding of average weights for safety, passengers on Hawaiian Airlines, Air New Zealand, and Korean Air have made similar requests in the past year. In 2015 the Uzbekistan Airlines introduced the rule of weighing passengers. (With inputs from agencies)

Finnish airline asks passengers to weigh before they board flights

Climbers to&nbsp;Mount Everest have been requested to carry their poop and bring it back&nbsp;to the base camp for disposal, according to a BBC report. The Pasang Lhamu rural municipality made the decision as severe temperatures in the area prevent&nbsp;the excrement from completely decomposing, causing&nbsp;the mountain to stink.

The chairman of the rural municipality of Pasang Lhamu, Mingma Sherpa, stated "We are receiving reports that human feces are visible on rocks and some climbers are becoming sick. It is unacceptable and this damages our reputation. Poop bags must be purchased at the base camp for those who wish to ascend both Mount Lhotse, the neighboring mountain and the highest peak in the world. They'll checked upon their return with these luggage."

Notably, mountaineers spend extended periods of time at base camp during the climbing season, where separate tents are made for restrooms and other needs. But once they start climbing, they usually dig a hole to poop in. When climbing to the Mount Everest, very few people return with their waste in biodegradable bags.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mount-everest%2C-the-high-altitude-rubbish-dump-144970" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/mount-everest%252C-the-high-altitude-rubbish-dump-144970&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwimndiLlZyEAxVxePUHHQRIAx4QFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2KwwRkS79mEO15rekQJYer" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mount-everest%2C-the-high-altitude-rubbish-dump-144970" target="_blank">In pictures:&nbsp;Mount Everest, the high-altitude rubbish dump</a>

According to the Chief Executive Officer of the non-governmental organisation (NGO) Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee, "waste remains a major issue, especially in higher-up camps where you can't reach."

Numerous cleanup initiatives have been carried out in the area, including a yearly effort headed by the Nepali Army. The organisation estimates that between South Kol, also known as Camp Four, which is located closer to the summit of Everest, and Camp One, which is at the base of the mountain, there are about three tonnes of human waste.

Climbing guide Stephan Keck, who leads multiple Mount Everest expeditions, asserted that South Col had developed a reputation as an "open toilet".

In anticipation of the upcoming climbing season, which starts in March, the NGO is already importing over 8,000 poop bags from the US for an anticipated 400 foreign climbers and 800 support staff.

(With inputs from agencies)

Climbers to Mount Everest have been requested to carry their poop and bring it back to the base camp for disposal, according to a BBC report. The Pasang Lhamu rural municipality made the decision as severe temperatures in the area prevent the excrement from completely decomposing, causing the mountain to stink.

Climbers to Mount Everest have been requested to carry their poop and bring it back to the base camp for disposal, according to a BBC report. The Pasang Lhamu rural municipality made the decision as severe temperatures in the area prevent the excrement from completely decomposing, causing the mountain to stink. The chairman of the rural municipality of Pasang Lhamu, Mingma Sherpa, stated "We are receiving reports that human feces are visible on rocks and some climbers are becoming sick. It is unacceptable and this damages our reputation. Poop bags must be purchased at the base camp for those who wish to ascend both Mount Lhotse, the neighboring mountain and the highest peak in the world. They'll checked upon their return with these luggage." Notably, mountaineers spend extended periods of time at base camp during the climbing season, where separate tents are made for restrooms and other needs. But once they start climbing, they usually dig a hole to poop in. When climbing to the Mount Everest, very few people return with their waste in biodegradable bags. Also Read: In pictures: Mount Everest, the high-altitude rubbish dump According to the Chief Executive Officer of the non-governmental organisation (NGO) Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee, "waste remains a major issue, especially in higher-up camps where you can't reach." Numerous cleanup initiatives have been carried out in the area, including a yearly effort headed by the Nepali Army. The organisation estimates that between South Kol, also known as Camp Four, which is located closer to the summit of Everest, and Camp One, which is at the base of the mountain, there are about three tonnes of human waste. Climbing guide Stephan Keck, who leads multiple Mount Everest expeditions, asserted that South Col had developed a reputation as an "open toilet". In anticipation of the upcoming climbing season, which starts in March, the NGO is already importing over 8,000 poop bags from the US for an anticipated 400 foreign climbers and 800 support staff. (With inputs from agencies)

Mount Everest climbers directed to bring poop back to base camp

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