Virgin Orbit reported an “anomaly” in its rocket on Tuesday that stopped it from reaching orbit, ending Britain's attempt to become the first European country to launch a satellite into space. "We appear to have an anomaly that has prevented us from reaching orbit. We are evaluating the information," Virgin Orbit said.

Virgin's LauncherOne rocket was carried under the wing of a customised Boeing 747 dubbed "Cosmic Girl" for the "horizontal launch" mission, which departed from the seaside town of Newquay in southwest England. The rocket was later released over the Atlantic Ocean, as per Reuters.

The aircraft engineering company made the "anomaly" public, 10 minutes before midnight. Less than an hour after the rocket was launched from Cosmic Girl, a 747 jumbo plane modified to unleash LauncherOne at 35,000 feet over the Atlantic Ocean.

This comes after the failure of a Vega-C rocket mission, which was built in Italy, in late December following lift-off from French Guiana.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/science/vega-c-rocket-carrying-two-airbus-satellites-goes-missing-shortly-after-take-off-544967" hreflang="en">Vega-C rocket carrying two Airbus satellites goes missing shortly after take-off</a>

In its maiden flight away from its American base, Virgin Orbit, a company owned in part by British billionaire Richard Branson, initially intended to launch nine satellites into lower Earth orbit (LEO). Since then, the rockets have been grounded.

In a now-deleted tweet, Virgin Orbit said that LauncherOne had reached earth orbit.

"Over the coming days there will be an investigation by the government and various bodies, including Virgin Orbit," Matt Archer, Commercial Space Director at the UK Space Agency wrote.

Watch | California-based launch services company said&nbsp;its rocket failed to deliver its satellite to orbit

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In the past year, Europe experienced a string of setbacks, including the delay of its crucial Ariane 6 launcher, access to Russian Soyuz rockets being restricted due to the conflict in Ukraine, the grounding of Vega, and now the cancellation of a showcase launch for the nascent small launcher industry.

It’s likely that an inquiry will be done to ascertain the cause and seriousness of the malfunction.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Virgin Orbit reported an “anomaly” in its rocket on Tuesday that stopped it from reaching orbit, ending Britain's attempt to become the first European country to launch a satellite into space.

Virgin Orbit reported an “anomaly” in its rocket on Tuesday that stopped it from reaching orbit, ending Britain's attempt to become the first European country to launch a satellite into space. "We appear to have an anomaly that has prevented us from reaching orbit. We are evaluating the information," Virgin Orbit said. Virgin's LauncherOne rocket was carried under the wing of a customised Boeing 747 dubbed "Cosmic Girl" for the "horizontal launch" mission, which departed from the seaside town of Newquay in southwest England. The rocket was later released over the Atlantic Ocean, as per Reuters. The aircraft engineering company made the "anomaly" public, 10 minutes before midnight. Less than an hour after the rocket was launched from Cosmic Girl, a 747 jumbo plane modified to unleash LauncherOne at 35,000 feet over the Atlantic Ocean. This comes after the failure of a Vega-C rocket mission, which was built in Italy, in late December following lift-off from French Guiana. Also Read | Vega-C rocket carrying two Airbus satellites goes missing shortly after take-off In its maiden flight away from its American base, Virgin Orbit, a company owned in part by British billionaire Richard Branson, initially intended to launch nine satellites into lower Earth orbit (LEO). Since then, the rockets have been grounded. In a now-deleted tweet, Virgin Orbit said that LauncherOne had reached earth orbit. "Over the coming days there will be an investigation by the government and various bodies, including Virgin Orbit," Matt Archer, Commercial Space Director at the UK Space Agency wrote. Watch | California-based launch services company said its rocket failed to deliver its satellite to orbit In the past year, Europe experienced a string of setbacks, including the delay of its crucial Ariane 6 launcher, access to Russian Soyuz rockets being restricted due to the conflict in Ukraine, the grounding of Vega, and now the cancellation of a showcase launch for the nascent small launcher industry. It’s likely that an inquiry will be done to ascertain the cause and seriousness of the malfunction. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK’s historic satellite launch fails to reach orbit after rocket ‘anomaly’

In China's first reprisal against COVID-19 restrictions imposed on Chinese travellers, the country has suspended issuing short-term visas for South Koreans and Japanese. In a statement released on Tuesday, the Chinese embassy in South Korea said that South Koreans would no longer be granted visas for the purpose of travel, business, medical treatment, transit, and general private affairs, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported.

The policy will change only if South Korea lifts its "discriminatory entry restrictions" against China, as per the embassy's official WeChat account.

According to China's foreign ministry, the announcement comes a day after Foreign Minister Qin Gang spoke with his South Korean counterpart Park Jin over the phone and voiced concern about the curbs, AFP reported. Park reportedly told Qin that the new border restrictions were nothing but "science-based" measures.

“The Korean government’s strengthened prevention measures for entrants from China are based on scientific and objective grounds,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Lim Soo-suk said in a briefing. “The government has been transparently sharing relevant information with the international community, and has continued to communicate with the Chinese side.”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/world/eu-nations-look-set-to-reach-consensus-on-covid-rules-for-chinese-travellers-549304" hreflang="en">EU nations agree on pre-departure Covid test for flyers from China, formal decision on Wednesday</a>

On Tuesday, China suspended issuing visas to Japanese travellers, Japan’s Kyodo News Agency reported citing unidentified sources in the travel industry. Other countries including the United States, South Korea, France, etc., have also introduced testing requirements in response to China's fresh Covid outbreak.

Chinese visitors were barred from visiting South Korea since the country had earlier halted providing short-term visas to Chinese travellers until January 31. Flights to Busan, Daegu, and Jeju are suspended, and flights between South Korea and China are only available through Seoul's Incheon International airport, SCMP reported. Seoul on Tuesday said that flights from Hong Kong and Macau will also be allowed to arrive only at Incheon airport.

South Korean authorities located a Chinese man, last week, who had vanished while awaiting quarantine after arriving in the country and testing positive for COVID-19, raising concerns.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/videos/china-covid-xi-administration-gradually-dismantles-zero-covid-policy-541962" hreflang="en">China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy</a>

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Earlier this month, Beijing threatened&nbsp;countermeasures against “unacceptable” Covid measures. “We believe that the entry restrictions adopted by some countries targeting China lack scientific basis, and some excessive practices are even more unacceptable,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said.

In December last year, China decided to lift its "zero Covid" policy, following which the Chinese citizens and residents demanded flights to travel across world. The EU is worried that a sudden influx of Chinese travellers could spread Covid strains to other parts of the world that the current vaccinations&nbsp;may be able to withstand.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In China's first reprisal against COVID-19 restrictions imposed on Chinese travellers, the country has suspended issuing short-term visas for South Koreans and Japanese.

In China's first reprisal against COVID-19 restrictions imposed on Chinese travellers, the country has suspended issuing short-term visas for South Koreans and Japanese. In a statement released on Tuesday, the Chinese embassy in South Korea said that South Koreans would no longer be granted visas for the purpose of travel, business, medical treatment, transit, and general private affairs, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported. The policy will change only if South Korea lifts its "discriminatory entry restrictions" against China, as per the embassy's official WeChat account. According to China's foreign ministry, the announcement comes a day after Foreign Minister Qin Gang spoke with his South Korean counterpart Park Jin over the phone and voiced concern about the curbs, AFP reported. Park reportedly told Qin that the new border restrictions were nothing but "science-based" measures. “The Korean government’s strengthened prevention measures for entrants from China are based on scientific and objective grounds,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Lim Soo-suk said in a briefing. “The government has been transparently sharing relevant information with the international community, and has continued to communicate with the Chinese side.” Also Read | EU nations agree on pre-departure Covid test for flyers from China, formal decision on Wednesday On Tuesday, China suspended issuing visas to Japanese travellers, Japan’s Kyodo News Agency reported citing unidentified sources in the travel industry. Other countries including the United States, South Korea, France, etc., have also introduced testing requirements in response to China's fresh Covid outbreak. Chinese visitors were barred from visiting South Korea since the country had earlier halted providing short-term visas to Chinese travellers until January 31. Flights to Busan, Daegu, and Jeju are suspended, and flights between South Korea and China are only available through Seoul's Incheon International airport, SCMP reported. Seoul on Tuesday said that flights from Hong Kong and Macau will also be allowed to arrive only at Incheon airport. South Korean authorities located a Chinese man, last week, who had vanished while awaiting quarantine after arriving in the country and testing positive for COVID-19, raising concerns. Watch | China Covid: Xi administration gradually dismantles Zero-Covid policy Earlier this month, Beijing threatened countermeasures against “unacceptable” Covid measures. “We believe that the entry restrictions adopted by some countries targeting China lack scientific basis, and some excessive practices are even more unacceptable,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said. In December last year, China decided to lift its "zero Covid" policy, following which the Chinese citizens and residents demanded flights to travel across world. The EU is worried that a sudden influx of Chinese travellers could spread Covid strains to other parts of the world that the current vaccinations may be able to withstand. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

COVID-19 curbs retaliation: China suspends short-term visas for South Koreans, Japanese

'Software developer' secured the top spot on US News &amp; World Report's list of the best occupations of 2023, moving up from the number five spot last year, according to a Bloomberg report.

That despite high-profile and massive layoffs at big IT giants, including Meta, Salesforce, and Amazon.com.

For thousands of tech professionals around the world, the new year has already started on a sombre note as multinational corporations have already let go of more staff in the first five days of January than they did in the entire month of December 2022.

Data from the tracking website Layoffs Tracker shows that tech organisations around the world have already declared layoffs that will affect 28,096 people through the fifth of the month. This is 17,074 layoffs more than were announced in December, a 64.5 percent increase.

In 2023, job security will be a top concern. For some looking to more secure industries, the appeal of big tech has faded as economic fears mount and the prospect of additional layoffs looms.

Over a quarter of laid-off computer professionals, according to a recent ZipRecruiter survey, switched industries.

For those who want to stay in tech, the competition is heating up as candidates compete for a shrinking pool of positions.

Still, US News ranked jobs using the Bureau of Labor Statistics data based on hiring demand, growth, median wage, employment rate, future career prospects, stress level, and work-life balance, said the Bloomberg report.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/world/2022-the-year-of-massive-layoffs-which-sectors-were-affected-547785" hreflang="en">2022: The year of massive layoffs. Which sectors were affected?</a>

Opportunities for software engineers in the tech industry are still aplenty outside of the Bay Area, although the outlook may have dimmed somewhat.

Businesses in traditional industries, from finance to retail, have long faced a need for more software engineers and are now keen to acquire top personnel.

However, they are unable to compete with Silicon Valley rates.

US News declares a clear winner for individuals seeking the greatest job security: The survey lists 13 of the top 20 professions with the best job security, including registered nurse and medical and health services manager.

'Software developer' secured the top spot on US News &amp; World Report's list of the best occupations of 2023, moving up from the number five spot last year, according to a Bloomberg report.

That despite high-profile and massive layoffs at big IT giants, including Meta, Salesforce, and Amazon.com.

For thousands of tech professionals around the world, the new year has already started on a sombre note as multinational corporations have already let go of more staff in the first five days of January than they did in the entire month of December 2022.

Data from the tracking website Layoffs Tracker shows that tech organisations around the world have already declared layoffs that will affect 28,096 people through the fifth of the month. This is 17,074 layoffs more than were announced in December, a 64.5 percent increase.

Watch | 2022: A year of layoffs

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/2022-a-year-of-layoffs-548032/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In 2023, job security will be a top concern. For some looking to more secure industries, the appeal of big tech has faded as economic fears mount and the prospect of additional layoffs looms.

Over a quarter of laid-off computer professionals, according to a recent ZipRecruiter survey, switched industries.

For those who want to stay in tech, the competition is heating up as candidates compete for a shrinking pool of positions.

Still, US News ranked jobs using the Bureau of Labor Statistics data based on hiring demand, growth, median wage, employment rate, future career prospects, stress level, and work-life balance, said the Bloomberg report.

Opportunities for software engineers in the tech industry are still aplenty outside of the Bay Area, although the outlook may have dimmed somewhat.

Businesses in traditional industries, from finance to retail, have long faced a need for more software engineers and are now keen to acquire top personnel.

However, they are unable to compete with Silicon Valley rates.

US News declares a clear winner for individuals seeking the greatest job security: The survey lists 13 of the top 20 professions with the best job security, including registered nurse and medical and health services manager.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

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'Software developer' secured the top spot on US News & World Report's list of the best occupations of 2023, moving up from the number five spot last year, according to a Bloomberg report.

'Software developer' secured the top spot on US News & World Report's list of the best occupations of 2023, moving up from the number five spot last year, according to a Bloomberg report. That despite high-profile and massive layoffs at big IT giants, including Meta, Salesforce, and Amazon.com. For thousands of tech professionals around the world, the new year has already started on a sombre note as multinational corporations have already let go of more staff in the first five days of January than they did in the entire month of December 2022. Data from the tracking website Layoffs Tracker shows that tech organisations around the world have already declared layoffs that will affect 28,096 people through the fifth of the month. This is 17,074 layoffs more than were announced in December, a 64.5 percent increase. In 2023, job security will be a top concern. For some looking to more secure industries, the appeal of big tech has faded as economic fears mount and the prospect of additional layoffs looms. Over a quarter of laid-off computer professionals, according to a recent ZipRecruiter survey, switched industries. For those who want to stay in tech, the competition is heating up as candidates compete for a shrinking pool of positions. Still, US News ranked jobs using the Bureau of Labor Statistics data based on hiring demand, growth, median wage, employment rate, future career prospects, stress level, and work-life balance, said the Bloomberg report. Also Read | 2022: The year of massive layoffs. Which sectors were affected? Opportunities for software engineers in the tech industry are still aplenty outside of the Bay Area, although the outlook may have dimmed somewhat. Businesses in traditional industries, from finance to retail, have long faced a need for more software engineers and are now keen to acquire top personnel. However, they are unable to compete with Silicon Valley rates. US News declares a clear winner for individuals seeking the greatest job security: The survey lists 13 of the top 20 professions with the best job security, including registered nurse and medical and health services manager. 'Software developer' secured the top spot on US News & World Report's list of the best occupations of 2023, moving up from the number five spot last year, according to a Bloomberg report. That despite high-profile and massive layoffs at big IT giants, including Meta, Salesforce, and Amazon.com. For thousands of tech professionals around the world, the new year has already started on a sombre note as multinational corporations have already let go of more staff in the first five days of January than they did in the entire month of December 2022. Data from the tracking website Layoffs Tracker shows that tech organisations around the world have already declared layoffs that will affect 28,096 people through the fifth of the month. This is 17,074 layoffs more than were announced in December, a 64.5 percent increase. Watch | 2022: A year of layoffs In 2023, job security will be a top concern. For some looking to more secure industries, the appeal of big tech has faded as economic fears mount and the prospect of additional layoffs looms. Over a quarter of laid-off computer professionals, according to a recent ZipRecruiter survey, switched industries. For those who want to stay in tech, the competition is heating up as candidates compete for a shrinking pool of positions. Still, US News ranked jobs using the Bureau of Labor Statistics data based on hiring demand, growth, median wage, employment rate, future career prospects, stress level, and work-life balance, said the Bloomberg report. Opportunities for software engineers in the tech industry are still aplenty outside of the Bay Area, although the outlook may have dimmed somewhat. Businesses in traditional industries, from finance to retail, have long faced a need for more software engineers and are now keen to acquire top personnel. However, they are unable to compete with Silicon Valley rates. US News declares a clear winner for individuals seeking the greatest job security: The survey lists 13 of the top 20 professions with the best job security, including registered nurse and medical and health services manager. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Software developer' wins top jobs of 2023, despite massive layoffs: Report

The Swiss National Bank (SNB) estimated on Monday the largest yearly loss in its 116-year existence. The bank lost $143 billion (132 billion Swiss francs) in 2022, as the value of its share and bond portfolio was negatively impacted by declining equity and fixed-income markets. The loss means that the SNB will not be able to distribute any profits to central and regional Swiss governments for 2022.

The preliminary figure released on Monday was far higher than the previous record loss of 23 billion francs recorded in 2015. It represented a reversal from a profit of 26 billion francs in 2021, The Star reported. The loss indicates that the payments to its shareholders will be affected too.

SNB suffered a loss of 131 billion francs from its foreign exchange positions after it purchased over 800 billion francs in stocks and bonds during a protracted drive to devalue the Swiss franc.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/world/top-swiss-bank-credit-suisse-fined-over-drugs-gang-money-laundering-492505" hreflang="en">Top Swiss Bank 'Credit Suisse' fined over drugs gang money laundering</a>

Last year, as central banks all over the world, increased interest rates to fight inflation, global stock markets weakened and bond prices plunged. Exchange rate losses were caused by the strong Swiss franc, which in July surged above parity against the euro, as per Reuters.

According to analysts, SNB Chairman Thomas Jordan also increased interest rates three times in 2022 in an effort to reduce excessive Swiss inflation.

Watch | No claimants for Swiss Bank accounts

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While the loss is “regrettable,” interim profits had predicted such an outcome, the conference of cantonal finance chiefs told SDA, according to Bloomberg.

The SNB's gold holdings were the only bright spot -- they totalled 1,040 tonnes at the end of 2021 and increased in value by $400 million francs in 2022.

It’s unlikely that the SNB will make amends in its policy, Reuters reported. The bank is slated to release the detailed annual figures on March 6.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Swiss National Bank (SNB) estimated on Monday the largest yearly loss in its 116-year existence. The bank lost $143 billion (132 billion Swiss francs) in 2022, as the value of its share and bond portfolio was negatively impacted by declining equity and fixed-income markets.

The Swiss National Bank (SNB) estimated on Monday the largest yearly loss in its 116-year existence. The bank lost $143 billion (132 billion Swiss francs) in 2022, as the value of its share and bond portfolio was negatively impacted by declining equity and fixed-income markets. The loss means that the SNB will not be able to distribute any profits to central and regional Swiss governments for 2022. The preliminary figure released on Monday was far higher than the previous record loss of 23 billion francs recorded in 2015. It represented a reversal from a profit of 26 billion francs in 2021, The Star reported. The loss indicates that the payments to its shareholders will be affected too. SNB suffered a loss of 131 billion francs from its foreign exchange positions after it purchased over 800 billion francs in stocks and bonds during a protracted drive to devalue the Swiss franc. Also Read | Top Swiss Bank 'Credit Suisse' fined over drugs gang money laundering Last year, as central banks all over the world, increased interest rates to fight inflation, global stock markets weakened and bond prices plunged. Exchange rate losses were caused by the strong Swiss franc, which in July surged above parity against the euro, as per Reuters. According to analysts, SNB Chairman Thomas Jordan also increased interest rates three times in 2022 in an effort to reduce excessive Swiss inflation. Watch | No claimants for Swiss Bank accounts While the loss is “regrettable,” interim profits had predicted such an outcome, the conference of cantonal finance chiefs told SDA, according to Bloomberg. The SNB's gold holdings were the only bright spot -- they totalled 1,040 tonnes at the end of 2021 and increased in value by $400 million francs in 2022. It’s unlikely that the SNB will make amends in its policy, Reuters reported. The bank is slated to release the detailed annual figures on March 6. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Swiss National Bank estimates record $143 billion loss in 2022

Protesters attempting to approach Peru's Congress headquarters were dispersed by police using tear gas on Wednesday. Two weeks after a wave of violent protests over the ousting of former President Pedro Castillo, thousands of people flooded the streets.

Demonstrators marched with Peru’s national red-and-white flag in Lima and Arequipa to show solidarity with Castillo, demanding his release and the current President Dina Boluarte’s resignation. They also protested against Congress’ closure and changes to the constitution.

Early in the evening, there were still 35 blockage points across the nation, but there had been no reports of altercations with the police who had barred entry to Congress, Reuters reported.

Amid the escalating tensions in Peru over the political turmoil, authorities announced that trains to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu had been suspended, a day after 2,062 visitors were evacuated.

As per local reports, Prime Minister Alberto Otarola had earlier urged&nbsp;for peaceful protests. Defence Minister Jorge Chavez claimed that authorities “scrupulously compiled” with Boluarte's directives to use force, local news outlet RPP reported.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peru-declares-state-of-emergency-amid-nationwide-protests-543113">Peru declares state of emergency amid&nbsp;nationwide protests</a>

Peru has been going through a political crisis for years now. Castilo was elected in July 2021 but the chaos began&nbsp;when in December he announced he was dissolving Congress and replacing it with an “exceptional emergency government.” The announcement was widely condemned by many, dubbing it a coup attempt.

After attempting to illegally dissolve Congress and restructure the judiciary, Castilo was removed from office. He was impeached the same day and his then-vice president Bolurate was sworn in as the new president later that day.

Watch | Peruvians protest against new bill in Lima

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Following Castilo’s ousting, his supporters started nationwide protests and the Bolurate government announced a state of emergency, suspending citizens’ right to freedom and personal security to quell the ongoing protests.&nbsp;

The former president is currently serving a 18-month pretrial detention and being probed for conspiracy and “rebellion,” a charge he repudiates.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Protesters attempting to approach Peru's Congress headquarters were dispersed by police using tear gas on Wednesday. Two weeks after a wave of violent protests over the ousting of former President Pedro Castillo, thousands of people flooded the streets.

Protesters attempting to approach Peru's Congress headquarters were dispersed by police using tear gas on Wednesday. Two weeks after a wave of violent protests over the ousting of former President Pedro Castillo, thousands of people flooded the streets. Demonstrators marched with Peru’s national red-and-white flag in Lima and Arequipa to show solidarity with Castillo, demanding his release and the current President Dina Boluarte’s resignation. They also protested against Congress’ closure and changes to the constitution. Early in the evening, there were still 35 blockage points across the nation, but there had been no reports of altercations with the police who had barred entry to Congress, Reuters reported. Amid the escalating tensions in Peru over the political turmoil, authorities announced that trains to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu had been suspended, a day after 2,062 visitors were evacuated. As per local reports, Prime Minister Alberto Otarola had earlier urged for peaceful protests. Defence Minister Jorge Chavez claimed that authorities “scrupulously compiled” with Boluarte's directives to use force, local news outlet RPP reported. Also Read | Peru declares state of emergency amid nationwide protests Peru has been going through a political crisis for years now. Castilo was elected in July 2021 but the chaos began when in December he announced he was dissolving Congress and replacing it with an “exceptional emergency government.” The announcement was widely condemned by many, dubbing it a coup attempt. After attempting to illegally dissolve Congress and restructure the judiciary, Castilo was removed from office. He was impeached the same day and his then-vice president Bolurate was sworn in as the new president later that day. Watch | Peruvians protest against new bill in Lima Following Castilo’s ousting, his supporters started nationwide protests and the Bolurate government announced a state of emergency, suspending citizens’ right to freedom and personal security to quell the ongoing protests. The former president is currently serving a 18-month pretrial detention and being probed for conspiracy and “rebellion,” a charge he repudiates. (With inputs from agencies)

Peru police use tear gas to disperse protesters; political turmoil continues

Punjabi is going to be the newest language to be added to public schools' curriculum in Western Australia. The curriculum creation for grades pre-primary through 12 will take place this year, wherein students will be offered an option to study Punjabi, Education Minister Sue Ellery made the announcement last month.

"I am pleased to see the ongoing expansion of languages curriculum for WA students, and the development of Punjabi curriculum is particularly fitting given it could support students in key future employment opportunities," Ellery said in a press release.

With more than 190 languages being spoken in the state, linguistic diversity is a major strength that offers a number of social, cultural, and economic advantages, she added.

The decision was made considering the fact that almost 239,000 people speak Punjabi at home, meaning, it is the fastest-growing language in the country, SBS Punjabi reported. A census taken in 2021 revealed there’s an 80% rise in Punjabi language speakers compared to 2016.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/world/language-of-great-impact-saudi-arabia-to-teach-chinese-in-education-institutions-to-boost-trades-542959" hreflang="en">‘Language of great impact’: Saudi Arabia to introduce Chinese in school curriculum to boost China trade</a>

A curriculum for the inclusion of the language is currently&nbsp;being developed by the School Curriculum and Standards Authority.

After Tamil, Hindi and Korean were added to the curriculum in 2021, the decision to teach Punjabi in schools was made. The following academic year will see the introduction of the Hindi, Koranic, and Tamil curricula.&nbsp;

Watch | Saudi schools to teach Chinese language

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According to SBS Punjabi, schools will have access to the pre-primary to Year 10 curriculum beginning in 2024. The same year, students should be able to enroll in Year 11 courses too. The first Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) course assessment is scheduled for 2025.

Prior to the inclusion of language, Australian Sikh history was taught in the Humanities and Social Sciences courses in WA schools for years 5, 6, and &nbsp;9.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Punjabi is going to be the newest language to be added to public schools' curriculum in Western Australia. The curriculum creation for grades pre-primary through 12 will take place this year, wherein students will be offered an option to study Punjabi, Education Minister Sue Ellery made the announcement last month.

Punjabi is going to be the newest language to be added to public schools' curriculum in Western Australia. The curriculum creation for grades pre-primary through 12 will take place this year, wherein students will be offered an option to study Punjabi, Education Minister Sue Ellery made the announcement last month. "I am pleased to see the ongoing expansion of languages curriculum for WA students, and the development of Punjabi curriculum is particularly fitting given it could support students in key future employment opportunities," Ellery said in a press release. With more than 190 languages being spoken in the state, linguistic diversity is a major strength that offers a number of social, cultural, and economic advantages, she added. The decision was made considering the fact that almost 239,000 people speak Punjabi at home, meaning, it is the fastest-growing language in the country, SBS Punjabi reported. A census taken in 2021 revealed there’s an 80% rise in Punjabi language speakers compared to 2016. Also Read | ‘Language of great impact’: Saudi Arabia to introduce Chinese in school curriculum to boost China trade A curriculum for the inclusion of the language is currently being developed by the School Curriculum and Standards Authority. After Tamil, Hindi and Korean were added to the curriculum in 2021, the decision to teach Punjabi in schools was made. The following academic year will see the introduction of the Hindi, Koranic, and Tamil curricula. Watch | Saudi schools to teach Chinese language According to SBS Punjabi, schools will have access to the pre-primary to Year 10 curriculum beginning in 2024. The same year, students should be able to enroll in Year 11 courses too. The first Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) course assessment is scheduled for 2025. Prior to the inclusion of language, Australian Sikh history was taught in the Humanities and Social Sciences courses in WA schools for years 5, 6, and 9. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australia welcomes linguistic diversity; students to learn Punjabi in public schools

During the course of the last five days, 98 people have died in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, owing to heart and brain strokes. According to the statistics given by the L.P.S Institute of Cardiology, 44 of the 98 fatalities occurred in hospitals, while 54 people passed away even before receiving the treatment.

Data from Kanpur's Laxmipat Singhania Institute of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery reveals that 723 cardiac patients visited the hospital's emergency and outpatient departments in the last week, as per Deccan Herald.

On Saturday, six patients died while receiving treatment at the Institute of Heart Disease, and fourteen patients who had been suffering from a severe cold passed away from a heart attack. There were eight people who were brought dead to the institute.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/india-news/severe-cold-wave-continues-to-grip-north-india-restrains-travel-550474" hreflang="en">Severe cold wave sweeps north India, poor visibility due to fog delays many flights, 480 trains</a>

At the city's SPS Heart Institute, 14 people died in the last 24 hours. The Heart Disease Institute currently has 604 patients undergoing care, including 54 new and 27 old patients.

Doctors believe that the sudden blood pressure spikes brought on by the cold and blood clotting, are triggering heart&nbsp;and brain attacks, DNA reported.

Vinay Krishna, Director of Cardiology advised patients to protect themselves from the cold waves.

"Heart attacks in this cold weather are not restricted only to the elderly. We have got cases when even teenagers have suffered heart attacks. Everyone, irrespective of age, should keep warm and stay indoors as far as possible," a faculty member at King George's Medical University (KGMU) in Lucknow said, IANS reported.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/videos/cold-wave-conditions-likely-to-prevail-over-northwest-india-during-next-2-days-550589" hreflang="en">Cold wave conditions likely to prevail over northwest India during next 2 days</a>

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A severe, protracted cold wave that has affected parts of northern India has disrupted daily life. More than a hundred flights and scores of trains have been delayed due to dense fog, which has caused mayhem at airports and train terminals.

The officials expect cold waves to start subsiding from January 10 onwards, India Today reported.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

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During the course of the last five days, 98 people have died in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, owing to heart and brain strokes. According to the statistics given by the L.

During the course of the last five days, 98 people have died in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, owing to heart and brain strokes. According to the statistics given by the L.P.S Institute of Cardiology, 44 of the 98 fatalities occurred in hospitals, while 54 people passed away even before receiving the treatment. Data from Kanpur's Laxmipat Singhania Institute of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery reveals that 723 cardiac patients visited the hospital's emergency and outpatient departments in the last week, as per Deccan Herald. On Saturday, six patients died while receiving treatment at the Institute of Heart Disease, and fourteen patients who had been suffering from a severe cold passed away from a heart attack. There were eight people who were brought dead to the institute. Also Read | Severe cold wave sweeps north India, poor visibility due to fog delays many flights, 480 trains At the city's SPS Heart Institute, 14 people died in the last 24 hours. The Heart Disease Institute currently has 604 patients undergoing care, including 54 new and 27 old patients. Doctors believe that the sudden blood pressure spikes brought on by the cold and blood clotting, are triggering heart and brain attacks, DNA reported. Vinay Krishna, Director of Cardiology advised patients to protect themselves from the cold waves. "Heart attacks in this cold weather are not restricted only to the elderly. We have got cases when even teenagers have suffered heart attacks. Everyone, irrespective of age, should keep warm and stay indoors as far as possible," a faculty member at King George's Medical University (KGMU) in Lucknow said, IANS reported. Watch | Cold wave conditions likely to prevail over northwest India during next 2 days A severe, protracted cold wave that has affected parts of northern India has disrupted daily life. More than a hundred flights and scores of trains have been delayed due to dense fog, which has caused mayhem at airports and train terminals. The officials expect cold waves to start subsiding from January 10 onwards, India Today reported. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Nearly 100 people die of heart attack in Kanpur within 7 days: Report

A bar-tailed godwit broke a Guinness World Record when it flew 13,560 kilometres from Alaska to Tasmania, Australia, non-stop.

The Limosa lapponica, which&nbsp;goes by its tag number “234684,” covered the distance without any food or rest, according to the Guinness world record.

“The distance covered is equivalent to two and a half trips between London and New York, or approximately one-third of the planet’s full circumference. According to the 5G satellite tag attached to its lower back, the epic journey started on October 13, 2022, and continued for 11 days and one hour without the bird landing once,” Guinness said, ALCWweb reported.

The long-distance migrations of bar-tailed godwits have&nbsp;made headlines before as well.&nbsp;This year's&nbsp;5-month-old Godwit surpassed&nbsp;the previous record of over 350 kilometres, which was set by a different bird of the same species in 2020.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/world/why-are-thousands-of-migratory-birds-dropping-dead-across-north-america-327989" hreflang="en">Why are thousands of migratory birds dropping dead across North America?</a>

The bird is believed to have lost “half or more of its body weight during continuous day and night flight,”&nbsp;Birdlife Tasmania's Eric Woehler told Guinness World Records.

“Short-tailed shearwaters and mutton birds can land on the water and feed. If a Godwit lands on water, it’s dead. It doesn’t have the webbing on its feet, it has no way of getting off. so if it falls onto the ocean’s surface from exhaustion, or if bad weather forces it to land, that’s the end,” he continued.

Watch |&nbsp;Migratory birds catch a breath of relief in Pakistan as lockdown keeps poachers away

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According to experts, these birds usually migrate&nbsp;to New Zealand.&nbsp;But, this Godwit made a 90-degree turn and landed on the sands of Ansons Bay in eastern Tasmania, Australia.

Long-distance avian travellers are not limited to bar-tailed godwits. Over the course of a year, Arctic terns (Sterna paradisaea) can routinely travel even further distances.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A bar-tailed godwit broke a Guinness World Record when it flew 13,560 kilometres from Alaska to Tasmania, Australia, non-stop. The Limosa lapponica, which goes by its tag number “234684,” covered the distance without any food or rest, according to the Guinness world record.

A bar-tailed godwit broke a Guinness World Record when it flew 13,560 kilometres from Alaska to Tasmania, Australia, non-stop. The Limosa lapponica, which goes by its tag number “234684,” covered the distance without any food or rest, according to the Guinness world record. “The distance covered is equivalent to two and a half trips between London and New York, or approximately one-third of the planet’s full circumference. According to the 5G satellite tag attached to its lower back, the epic journey started on October 13, 2022, and continued for 11 days and one hour without the bird landing once,” Guinness said, ALCWweb reported. The long-distance migrations of bar-tailed godwits have made headlines before as well. This year's 5-month-old Godwit surpassed the previous record of over 350 kilometres, which was set by a different bird of the same species in 2020. Also Read | Why are thousands of migratory birds dropping dead across North America? The bird is believed to have lost “half or more of its body weight during continuous day and night flight,” Birdlife Tasmania's Eric Woehler told Guinness World Records. “Short-tailed shearwaters and mutton birds can land on the water and feed. If a Godwit lands on water, it’s dead. It doesn’t have the webbing on its feet, it has no way of getting off. so if it falls onto the ocean’s surface from exhaustion, or if bad weather forces it to land, that’s the end,” he continued. Watch | Migratory birds catch a breath of relief in Pakistan as lockdown keeps poachers away According to experts, these birds usually migrate to New Zealand. But, this Godwit made a 90-degree turn and landed on the sands of Ansons Bay in eastern Tasmania, Australia. Long-distance avian travellers are not limited to bar-tailed godwits. Over the course of a year, Arctic terns (Sterna paradisaea) can routinely travel even further distances. (With inputs from agencies)

Bird flies from Alaska to Australia non-stop, surpasses Guinness world record

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic's rapid spread in nearby nations including South Korea and China, North Korea has called for stringent quarantine precautions,&nbsp;its state media reported on Monday. Due to the fast growth of omicron subvariants, viral cases spiked during the winter in South, China, and Japan, a report by the state-run Korean Central Television said. "The virus situations in those regions are the most serious in the world," it&nbsp;stated.

In an effort to "thoroughly" prevent infections, it urged North Koreans to intensify quarantine measures against the COVID-19 pandemic, The Korean Herald reported.

Recently, the North has stepped up its defences against the recent uptick in virus cases in South and China, ostensibly out of worry that possible imported infections could further harm its economy.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un declared triumph over the COVID-19 crisis in August last year, saying the pandemic had been brought under control&nbsp;three months after the country reported its first virus case in May 2022.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/world/chinas-covid-crisis-healthcare-workers-continue-to-work-despite-being-tested-positive-for-coronavirus-550454" hreflang="en">China's Covid crisis: Healthcare workers continue to work despite being tested positive for coronavirus</a>

In November, Kim recommended people start wearing masks, saying immunity levels might start to decline. In September last year, he also called for a COVID-19 immunisation campaign, Yonhap reported.

North Korea has sternly outlawed all cross-border transactions since January 2020, including trade, travel, and tourism, which are the nation's main sources of foreign cash.

Watch | UN voices concerns, offers to provide assistance and jabs to North Korea

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The North Korean economy&nbsp;deteriorated quickly as a result of the border closure, and Kim has begun to acknowledge the country's challenges in 2022 occasionally. In 2020–21, the nation's gross domestic product (GDP) decreased by 4.5–4.6% compared to the previous year, per Statistics Korea's figures.

Three years of stringent restrictions on cross-border trade and traffic due to the pandemic had already worn out its self-sufficient economic system. A report by The Diplomat stated that in 2023, it is possible that North Korea would gradually open its borders with China and Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH&nbsp;WION LIVE HERE:

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In light of the COVID-19 pandemic's rapid spread in nearby nations including South Korea and China, North Korea has called for stringent quarantine precautions, its state media reported on Monday.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic's rapid spread in nearby nations including South Korea and China, North Korea has called for stringent quarantine precautions, its state media reported on Monday. Due to the fast growth of omicron subvariants, viral cases spiked during the winter in South, China, and Japan, a report by the state-run Korean Central Television said. "The virus situations in those regions are the most serious in the world," it stated. In an effort to "thoroughly" prevent infections, it urged North Koreans to intensify quarantine measures against the COVID-19 pandemic, The Korean Herald reported. Recently, the North has stepped up its defences against the recent uptick in virus cases in South and China, ostensibly out of worry that possible imported infections could further harm its economy. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un declared triumph over the COVID-19 crisis in August last year, saying the pandemic had been brought under control three months after the country reported its first virus case in May 2022. Also Read | China's Covid crisis: Healthcare workers continue to work despite being tested positive for coronavirus In November, Kim recommended people start wearing masks, saying immunity levels might start to decline. In September last year, he also called for a COVID-19 immunisation campaign, Yonhap reported. North Korea has sternly outlawed all cross-border transactions since January 2020, including trade, travel, and tourism, which are the nation's main sources of foreign cash. Watch | UN voices concerns, offers to provide assistance and jabs to North Korea The North Korean economy deteriorated quickly as a result of the border closure, and Kim has begun to acknowledge the country's challenges in 2022 occasionally. In 2020–21, the nation's gross domestic product (GDP) decreased by 4.5–4.6% compared to the previous year, per Statistics Korea's figures. Three years of stringent restrictions on cross-border trade and traffic due to the pandemic had already worn out its self-sufficient economic system. A report by The Diplomat stated that in 2023, it is possible that North Korea would gradually open its borders with China and Russia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

COVID-19: North Korea on virus alert after China, South Korea witness surge in cases

Germany and the US have decided to send armoured combat vehicles to Ukraine, the White House said on Thursday.&nbsp;The&nbsp;decision was made during a joint German-U.S. statement after German Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke with US President Joe Biden.

This comes after Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky urgently sought an upgrade in armament to fight off Russia's invasion, Al Jazeera reported. While Germany is deploying Marder infantry fighting vehicles and will join the US in sending a Patriot missile battery to Kyiv, the US has agreed to provide Bradley fighting vehicles to Ukraine.&nbsp;

“In late December, the United States announced its donation of a Patriot air defence missile battery to Ukraine. Germany will join the United States in supplying an additional Patriot air defence battery to Ukraine,” the statement read.

According to a report by Reuters, the US planned on sending about 50 Bradleys built by BAE Systems Plc to Ukraine. The German government, however, did not state when or how many Marder APCs will be delivered, but added that&nbsp;the country will also train the Ukraine forces to operate them.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-is-the-western-press-asking-same-agenda-driven-motivated-questions-462899" hreflang="en">'Give Ukraine weapons': Is the western press asking same, agenda-driven, motivated questions?</a>

“The United States intends to supply Ukraine with Bradley infantry fighting vehicles, and Germany intends to provide Ukraine with Marder infantry fighting vehicles. Both countries plan to train Ukrainian forces on the respective systems,” the statement further said.

Scholz had been reluctant to give Ukraine heavy weapons out of concern that it may involve&nbsp;North Atlantic Treaty Organization&nbsp;(NATO)&nbsp;in the conflict. The deliveries represent a substantial change in his position.

The move comes after French President Emmanuel Macron agreed to supply AMX-10s "tank killers" to Ukraine. According to the French presidency, the Ukrainian military will receive one of these Western-made wheeled tank destroyers for the first time.

Watch | France pledges armoured vehicles to Ukraine

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Ukrainian authorities have repeatedly urged European and NATO powers to provide heavier weapons for their combat mission.

Several countries have time and again slammed Russia and risen in support of Ukraine, providing the country with the required financial and military aid in its fight against the Russian invasion that began on February 24, last year.&nbsp;

“President Biden and Chancellor Scholz expressed their common determination to continue to provide the necessary financial, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine for as long as needed,” the leaders said in the joint statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Germany and the US have decided to send armoured combat vehicles to Ukraine, the White House said on Thursday. The decision was made during a joint German-U.S. statement after German Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke with US President Joe Biden.

Germany and the US have decided to send armoured combat vehicles to Ukraine, the White House said on Thursday. The decision was made during a joint German-U.S. statement after German Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke with US President Joe Biden. This comes after Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky urgently sought an upgrade in armament to fight off Russia's invasion, Al Jazeera reported. While Germany is deploying Marder infantry fighting vehicles and will join the US in sending a Patriot missile battery to Kyiv, the US has agreed to provide Bradley fighting vehicles to Ukraine. “In late December, the United States announced its donation of a Patriot air defence missile battery to Ukraine. Germany will join the United States in supplying an additional Patriot air defence battery to Ukraine,” the statement read. According to a report by Reuters, the US planned on sending about 50 Bradleys built by BAE Systems Plc to Ukraine. The German government, however, did not state when or how many Marder APCs will be delivered, but added that the country will also train the Ukraine forces to operate them. Also Read | 'Give Ukraine weapons': Is the western press asking same, agenda-driven, motivated questions? “The United States intends to supply Ukraine with Bradley infantry fighting vehicles, and Germany intends to provide Ukraine with Marder infantry fighting vehicles. Both countries plan to train Ukrainian forces on the respective systems,” the statement further said. Scholz had been reluctant to give Ukraine heavy weapons out of concern that it may involve North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in the conflict. The deliveries represent a substantial change in his position. The move comes after French President Emmanuel Macron agreed to supply AMX-10s "tank killers" to Ukraine. According to the French presidency, the Ukrainian military will receive one of these Western-made wheeled tank destroyers for the first time. Watch | France pledges armoured vehicles to Ukraine Ukrainian authorities have repeatedly urged European and NATO powers to provide heavier weapons for their combat mission. Several countries have time and again slammed Russia and risen in support of Ukraine, providing the country with the required financial and military aid in its fight against the Russian invasion that began on February 24, last year. “President Biden and Chancellor Scholz expressed their common determination to continue to provide the necessary financial, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine for as long as needed,” the leaders said in the joint statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany, US to supply armoured combat vehicles to Ukraine

Pakistan’s interior minister Rana Sanaullah has hinted at the possibility of Islamabad being open to talks with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The minister said&nbsp;efforts to bring the outlawed group to the table are underway.&nbsp;This comes after Sanaullah on Wednesday had said that Pakistan won’t hold talks with the banned TTP or any other terrorist organisation.&nbsp;

Before initiating the talks,&nbsp;the group would have to surrender before the law and put aside arms and ammunition, he said, reported Pakistan Today. Pakistan must approach the situation in a way that keeps the TTP at its "lowest level," thereby preventing terrorist attacks in the future, he added.

“You will see the decisions that were made in regards to this being implemented in the coming days,” the minister said.

His comments came after the NSC reiterated its intention to destroy terrorist organisations operating within the nation.

Pakistan has lately been witnessing a series of deadly attacks carried out by TTP, after the group formally broke the ceasefire pact with Islamabad in November 2022, Geo News reported. The attacks were believed to be planned by Afghanistan-based TTP leaders. 
 
The change in stance comes after&nbsp;the proscribed terrorist outfit, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)&nbsp;threatened to eliminate the ministers of the ruling coalition government if the latter continues to take tough measures against the militants “to please America”.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://wionnews.com/south-asia/pakistan-says-will-target-ttp-on-afghan-soil-taliban-says-things-can-be-resolved-by-dialogue-548657" hreflang="en">Pakistan says will target TTP on Afghan soil, Taliban say would not let anyone attack Islamic Emirate</a>

According to Pakistan Today, TTP shares ideologies with the Afghan Taliban and executed over 100 attacks last year. The attacks began when the group's peace negotiations with the Pakistan government started to sputter.

While addressing a press conference, Sanaullah assured that the government was taking initiative to combat terrorism. He further said that making the state's counterterrorism operations public would only jeopardise its success.

“But this should not be taken to mean that nothing is being done,” the minister said.

Watch | Pakistan Minister 'open to negotiating with TTP'

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Talking about the recent National Security Committee (NSC) meeting, Sanaullah said, the forum has decided to adopt a "zero tolerance" policy to countering terrorism with “no mixed messages and no differentiation between good or bad terrorists.”

Earlier, there were speculations that the Pakistan government might launch a military operation against the TTP, but that doesn’t seem to be happening, given the minister’s latest comments.&nbsp;

For long now, Islamabad has been accusing the Taliban of providing a safe haven to TTP leaders on Afghan soil, a claim that Kabul rebuffs. However, Taliban chief spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid recently said the Afghan government wants improved ties with all its neighbours, including Pakistan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Pakistan’s interior minister Rana Sanaullah has hinted at the possibility of Islamabad being open to talks with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The minister said efforts to bring the outlawed group to the table are underway.

Pakistan’s interior minister Rana Sanaullah has hinted at the possibility of Islamabad being open to talks with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The minister said efforts to bring the outlawed group to the table are underway. This comes after Sanaullah on Wednesday had said that Pakistan won’t hold talks with the banned TTP or any other terrorist organisation. Before initiating the talks, the group would have to surrender before the law and put aside arms and ammunition, he said, reported Pakistan Today. Pakistan must approach the situation in a way that keeps the TTP at its "lowest level," thereby preventing terrorist attacks in the future, he added. “You will see the decisions that were made in regards to this being implemented in the coming days,” the minister said. His comments came after the NSC reiterated its intention to destroy terrorist organisations operating within the nation. Pakistan has lately been witnessing a series of deadly attacks carried out by TTP, after the group formally broke the ceasefire pact with Islamabad in November 2022, Geo News reported. The attacks were believed to be planned by Afghanistan-based TTP leaders. The change in stance comes after the proscribed terrorist outfit, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) threatened to eliminate the ministers of the ruling coalition government if the latter continues to take tough measures against the militants “to please America”. Also Read | Pakistan says will target TTP on Afghan soil, Taliban say would not let anyone attack Islamic Emirate According to Pakistan Today, TTP shares ideologies with the Afghan Taliban and executed over 100 attacks last year. The attacks began when the group's peace negotiations with the Pakistan government started to sputter. While addressing a press conference, Sanaullah assured that the government was taking initiative to combat terrorism. He further said that making the state's counterterrorism operations public would only jeopardise its success. “But this should not be taken to mean that nothing is being done,” the minister said. Watch | Pakistan Minister 'open to negotiating with TTP' Talking about the recent National Security Committee (NSC) meeting, Sanaullah said, the forum has decided to adopt a "zero tolerance" policy to countering terrorism with “no mixed messages and no differentiation between good or bad terrorists.” Earlier, there were speculations that the Pakistan government might launch a military operation against the TTP, but that doesn’t seem to be happening, given the minister’s latest comments. For long now, Islamabad has been accusing the Taliban of providing a safe haven to TTP leaders on Afghan soil, a claim that Kabul rebuffs. However, Taliban chief spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid recently said the Afghan government wants improved ties with all its neighbours, including Pakistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan’s efforts to bring Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan to table underway: Interior minister

Britain is experiencing its worst flu season in ten years with emergency departments under tremendous stress, leading to hundreds of fatalities, according to the latest statistics.

The week before Christmas saw a 50 per cent increase in hospitalisations&nbsp;compared to the peak of the previous severe flu season, in 2017–18. Approximately 22,000 people died around that time, Daily Mail reported.

According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), flu admissions were 8.3 per 100,000 persons in&nbsp;the week ending January 1, down from 14.8 the week before -- the highest number in at least ten years.&nbsp;

With 61.8 per 100,000 for those 85 and older and 31.8 for those in the 75–84 age range, admissions remain higher for the older age groups. According to reports, since the swine flu outbreak in 2010–2011, the nation is on track to having its deadliest season.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/science/scientists-have-finally-found-the-reason-why-people-get-more-colds-and-flu-during-winters-541050" hreflang="en">Scientists have finally found the reason why people get more colds and flu during winters</a>

NHS data states that hospitals in England saw an average of 995 Covid-infected patients during the week of January 2. In advance of another wave that is anticipated to be fueled by "the Kraken" version, hospital admissions for Covid have almost reached their peak, according to NHS data.

According to NHS stats, virus pressures plateaued in mid-December, when XBB-1.5 was initially discovered throughout Britain, and have been declining ever since. During the final week of 2022, flu admissions also fell sharply.

Watch | UK Suffers the post-pandemic immunity gap

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Experts expect the drop to be genuine amid the "twindemic"&nbsp;that has prompted demands for the reinstatement of restrictions from the pandemic era, including face masks and mass testing.

The week before Christmas, when pressure on the health service was at its highest, saw nearly 15,000 fatalities in England and Wales.&nbsp;

Health officials caution that despite the decline, the rate is still higher than it has ever been in the four winters prior.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Britain is experiencing its worst flu season in ten years with emergency departments under tremendous stress, leading to hundreds of fatalities, according to the latest statistics.

Britain is experiencing its worst flu season in ten years with emergency departments under tremendous stress, leading to hundreds of fatalities, according to the latest statistics. The week before Christmas saw a 50 per cent increase in hospitalisations compared to the peak of the previous severe flu season, in 2017–18. Approximately 22,000 people died around that time, Daily Mail reported. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), flu admissions were 8.3 per 100,000 persons in the week ending January 1, down from 14.8 the week before -- the highest number in at least ten years. With 61.8 per 100,000 for those 85 and older and 31.8 for those in the 75–84 age range, admissions remain higher for the older age groups. According to reports, since the swine flu outbreak in 2010–2011, the nation is on track to having its deadliest season. Also Read | Scientists have finally found the reason why people get more colds and flu during winters NHS data states that hospitals in England saw an average of 995 Covid-infected patients during the week of January 2. In advance of another wave that is anticipated to be fueled by "the Kraken" version, hospital admissions for Covid have almost reached their peak, according to NHS data. According to NHS stats, virus pressures plateaued in mid-December, when XBB-1.5 was initially discovered throughout Britain, and have been declining ever since. During the final week of 2022, flu admissions also fell sharply. Watch | UK Suffers the post-pandemic immunity gap Experts expect the drop to be genuine amid the "twindemic" that has prompted demands for the reinstatement of restrictions from the pandemic era, including face masks and mass testing. The week before Christmas, when pressure on the health service was at its highest, saw nearly 15,000 fatalities in England and Wales. Health officials caution that despite the decline, the rate is still higher than it has ever been in the four winters prior. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Twindemic’: UK witnesses worst flu season in a decade, situation worsens as death toll rises

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