We delve into the heart of the world's diamond industry as G7 countries announce a ban on Russian gems. India, home to 90% of the global diamond cutting and polishing sector, expects little disruption. That’s because it predominantly processes smaller Russian diamonds, cushioning the blow of the upcoming restrictions. Watch the video to know more!

India urges G7 to delay ban on Russian diamonds | World Business Watch

2023 marks a remarkable year for short-seller Hindenburg. for activist US short seller Hindenburg research, bearish bets on the Adani group and ICAHN enterprises have concluded another incredible year. Hindenburg kicked off the year accusing Indian billionaire Gautam Adani's conglomerate of accounting fraud and stock manipulation. At one point, those accusations caused the market value of Adani group to decline by over $150 billion. Big bet on the Indian giant made Hindenburg famous. Seven of the group's 10 stocks are still down compared to before Hindenburg's damning report on January 24.

Hindenburg's prominent bets this year | World Business Watch

France has submitted its response to India's Rafale tender, the deal is worth $6 billion. The Rafale marine aircraft is being acquired for aircraft carriers. India will study the commercial offer for the aircraft. French President Emmanuel Macron has responded to India's tender. Watch to know more!

France submits response to India's Rafale tender

Some of the Americans who were freed by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government in a U.S. prisoner swap have landed at a U.S. military base in San Antonio, Texas, a Reuters witness said. #us #prisonerswap #latestnews

US and Venezuela swap prisoners

Nicolas Puech, the 80-year-old descendant of Thierry Hermès—who founded French luxury giant Hermes International SCA in 1837—has decided to leave half of his fortune to his former gardener, setting off a public spat with the foundation his family created.

According to Swiss media reports, Puech has initiated the legal process of adopting his former 50-year-old unnamed gardener and plans to leave him half of his 12 billion euros (£10.3 billion) fortune.

The family emerged this month as the world’s third wealthiest in Bloomberg’s annual ranking of family fortunes.

<h2>Nothing much revealed about the unnamed heir&nbsp;</h2>

Nothing much has been revealed about this gardener, except that the man is of Moroccan origins and is married with two children. Local media reports state that Puech refers to them as his “children” and “adopted son”.

However, the decision has been vehemently opposed by the Isocrates Foundation—which has a board of six including Puech as president—which has announced that it will “oppose” its founder’s decision to cancel the inheritance contract.

It is believed that Puech owns about 5.7 per cent of Hermès’ shares.

<h2>Trust opposes move</h2>

On Tuesday (Dec 19), the foundation said that it “isn’t in a position to judge the process or context” of the reports that Puech wished to adopt his former employee.

“From a legal standpoint, the abrupt and unilateral annulment of a succession agreement appears void and unfounded,” the foundation said in a statement.

“The foundation has opposed this move while leaving the door open to discussion with its founder and president.”

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The foundation was referring to a 2011 agreement it had with Puech, who has no children, to fund “the protection and promotion of public debate”.

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The foundation said it was established to fund and support “public interest journalism and media organisations committed to strengthening the field of investigative journalism” and civil society organisations “working towards responsible digitalisation and a healthy digital public space”.

It added that as a Switzerland-based charity, it is “under the authority and surveillance of Swiss Federal supervisory board for foundations”.

The move by Puech adds another twist to the long-running saga of the Hermes descendant, who alleged to have betrayed his family when he failed to join dozens of relatives, led by his brother Bertrand Puech, in pooling their Hermes shares to tighten control over the firm and repel Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy, which had stealthily acquired a stake.&nbsp;

Nicolas Puech, the 80-year-old descendant of Thierry Hermès—who founded French luxury giant Hermes International SCA in 1837—has decided to leave half of his fortune to his former gardener, setting off a public spat with the foundation his family created.

Nicolas Puech, the 80-year-old descendant of Thierry Hermès—who founded French luxury giant Hermes International SCA in 1837—has decided to leave half of his fortune to his former gardener, setting off a public spat with the foundation his family created. According to Swiss media reports, Puech has initiated the legal process of adopting his former 50-year-old unnamed gardener and plans to leave him half of his 12 billion euros (£10.3 billion) fortune. The family emerged this month as the world’s third wealthiest in Bloomberg’s annual ranking of family fortunes. Nothing much revealed about the unnamed heir Nothing much has been revealed about this gardener, except that the man is of Moroccan origins and is married with two children. Local media reports state that Puech refers to them as his “children” and “adopted son”. However, the decision has been vehemently opposed by the Isocrates Foundation—which has a board of six including Puech as president—which has announced that it will “oppose” its founder’s decision to cancel the inheritance contract. It is believed that Puech owns about 5.7 per cent of Hermès’ shares. Trust opposes move On Tuesday (Dec 19), the foundation said that it “isn’t in a position to judge the process or context” of the reports that Puech wished to adopt his former employee. “From a legal standpoint, the abrupt and unilateral annulment of a succession agreement appears void and unfounded,” the foundation said in a statement. “The foundation has opposed this move while leaving the door open to discussion with its founder and president.” Also read | US authorities start closing bridges with Mexico to contain surge in immigration The foundation was referring to a 2011 agreement it had with Puech, who has no children, to fund “the protection and promotion of public debate”. Also read | Trump barred from Colorado ballot for role in January 6 attack on US Capitol The foundation said it was established to fund and support “public interest journalism and media organisations committed to strengthening the field of investigative journalism” and civil society organisations “working towards responsible digitalisation and a healthy digital public space”. It added that as a Switzerland-based charity, it is “under the authority and surveillance of Swiss Federal supervisory board for foundations”. The move by Puech adds another twist to the long-running saga of the Hermes descendant, who alleged to have betrayed his family when he failed to join dozens of relatives, led by his brother Bertrand Puech, in pooling their Hermes shares to tighten control over the firm and repel Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy, which had stealthily acquired a stake.

Hermès heir decides to leave half of its fortune to his ex-gardener

A top British cop has warned that the use of strong synthetic drugs has surged in many cities, especially in London, and they are at risk of turning into drug-ravaged San Fransico, due to strong opioids flooding the global market.

Donna Jones, chairwoman of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, has warned that an epidemic of drug overdose would soon hit the UK, as is occurring in California and many US cities, which are gripped by the opioid crisis.

Jones said it was "inevitable" that London and other UK cities could face a similar spike due to the shortage of heroin, caused by the Taliban's ban on poppy farming.

As a result, she said, there has been a 90 per cent drop in exports from Afghanistan, which is the world's largest producer of the drug.

<h2>Void left by Taliban is being filled by Chinese gangs&nbsp;</h2>

The void left by the Taliban’s ban is being filled by the Chinese gangs who are providing synthetic opioids which are as much as 300 times stronger than street heroin, Jones said, Express news outlet reported.

She said that the rapid decline of the Afghan heroin trade will enable alternative suppliers to claim their share of the market.

"That will completely dry up the heroin supply down to Africa and up through Europe over the next 12 months, which means the Chinese synthetic opioid market is going to explode,” Jones said.

"It’s already happening in America, and heroin addicts in America are dying in their plenty because synthetic opioids like fentanyl are literally 50 times stronger than street heroin. And it is so tragic."

<h2>Many alternatives cropping up</h2>

"The Chinese gangs have been keeping a close eye on the supply of heroin around the world and have clearly seen an opportunity to exploit the market with a massive explosion in synthetic opioids,” she added.

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According to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) published on Tuesday, drug poisoning death in England and Wales are already at the highest they've ever been in the 30 years that they've been being recorded,

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-passes-controversial-bill-to-toughen-immigration-rules-despite-macron-party-rebellion-671679">France passes controversial bill to toughen immigration rules despite Macron party rebellion</a>

National Crime Agency (NCA) said there have been 54 deaths linked to street drugs that are six times more powerful than fentanyl in the past six months. There are 40 more cases awaiting test results.

(With inputs from agencies)

A top British cop has warned that the use of strong synthetic drugs has surged in many cities, especially in London, and they are at risk of turning into drug-ravaged San Fransico, due to strong opioids flooding the global market.

A top British cop has warned that the use of strong synthetic drugs has surged in many cities, especially in London, and they are at risk of turning into drug-ravaged San Fransico, due to strong opioids flooding the global market. Donna Jones, chairwoman of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, has warned that an epidemic of drug overdose would soon hit the UK, as is occurring in California and many US cities, which are gripped by the opioid crisis. Jones said it was "inevitable" that London and other UK cities could face a similar spike due to the shortage of heroin, caused by the Taliban's ban on poppy farming. As a result, she said, there has been a 90 per cent drop in exports from Afghanistan, which is the world's largest producer of the drug. Void left by Taliban is being filled by Chinese gangs The void left by the Taliban’s ban is being filled by the Chinese gangs who are providing synthetic opioids which are as much as 300 times stronger than street heroin, Jones said, Express news outlet reported. She said that the rapid decline of the Afghan heroin trade will enable alternative suppliers to claim their share of the market. "That will completely dry up the heroin supply down to Africa and up through Europe over the next 12 months, which means the Chinese synthetic opioid market is going to explode,” Jones said. "It’s already happening in America, and heroin addicts in America are dying in their plenty because synthetic opioids like fentanyl are literally 50 times stronger than street heroin. And it is so tragic." Many alternatives cropping up "The Chinese gangs have been keeping a close eye on the supply of heroin around the world and have clearly seen an opportunity to exploit the market with a massive explosion in synthetic opioids,” she added. Also read | US authorities start closing bridges with Mexico to contain surge in immigration According to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) published on Tuesday, drug poisoning death in England and Wales are already at the highest they've ever been in the 30 years that they've been being recorded, Also read | France passes controversial bill to toughen immigration rules despite Macron party rebellion National Crime Agency (NCA) said there have been 54 deaths linked to street drugs that are six times more powerful than fentanyl in the past six months. There are 40 more cases awaiting test results. (With inputs from agencies)

Strong opioids which are 300 times stronger than heroin infesting UK cities: Top cop

An Indian man from westerner Pune city was arrested after a video went viral showing him harassing a South Korean vlogger.

He has been identified as Bharat Unchale, hailing from Bidar in southwestern Karnataka state. The incident in the Ravet area of Pune's Pimpri Chinchwad dates back to November during the Diwali festival.

He was arrested on Tuesday after the video, which was widely shared on social media platforms, triggered massive outrage.

<h2>Man continued to harass blogger for minutes&nbsp;</h2>

In the clip, he was seen putting his hand around vlogger Kelly’s neck, and seemingly making inappropriate gestures while she attempts to engage with the locals in the market.

Kelly was seen speaking to shopkeepers and customers at a local shop while sipping coconut water.

Later, a second man joins in, and the first one gestures to him to stay closer.

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The exact incident in the video starts at 21.16

When a visibly upset Kelly appeared to distance herself, the harasser persisted, making her even more uncomfortable.

In the clip, she says that she needs to leave the area, saying, "I have to run from here," and adds, "They really like to hug."

<h2>Arrested for assault, obscene acts&nbsp;</h2>

After the video went viral, the crime branch of Pimpri Chinchwad Police tracked down the suspect in the Ravet area and arrested him on Tuesday.

Bharat Unchale has been charged with Indian Penal Code section 354 (assault or criminal force to a woman with intent to outrage her modesty) and section 294 (punishment for obscene acts or words in public).

The police added that the matter is being further investigated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russian-tourists-video-of-harassment-by-petrol-pump-worker-goes-viral-police-take-action-video-671428">Russian tourist’s video of harassment by petrol pump worker goes viral, police take action: Video</a>

The incident reminded many of last year when another Korean woman was harassed by a man on the streets of Mumbai during her online livestream.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bjp-veterans-lk-advani-mm-joshi-to-make-every-effort-to-attend-ram-temple-consecration-ceremony-671619">India: BJP veterans LK Advani, MM Joshi to make 'every effort' to attend Ram Temple consecration ceremony</a>

In the December incident, the clip went viral showing the accused man grabbing the YouTuber by her hand and trying to kiss her while she was live online.

Two men—Mobeen Chand Mohammad Shaikh (19) and Mohammad Naqeeb Sadrealam Ansari (20)— were later held by the Mumbai police in connection with the incident.

&nbsp;

An Indian man from westerner Pune city was arrested after a video went viral showing him harassing a South Korean vlogger. He has been identified as Bharat Unchale, hailing from Bidar in southwestern Karnataka state.

An Indian man from westerner Pune city was arrested after a video went viral showing him harassing a South Korean vlogger. He has been identified as Bharat Unchale, hailing from Bidar in southwestern Karnataka state. The incident in the Ravet area of Pune's Pimpri Chinchwad dates back to November during the Diwali festival. He was arrested on Tuesday after the video, which was widely shared on social media platforms, triggered massive outrage. Man continued to harass blogger for minutes In the clip, he was seen putting his hand around vlogger Kelly’s neck, and seemingly making inappropriate gestures while she attempts to engage with the locals in the market. Kelly was seen speaking to shopkeepers and customers at a local shop while sipping coconut water. Later, a second man joins in, and the first one gestures to him to stay closer. × The exact incident in the video starts at 21.16 When a visibly upset Kelly appeared to distance herself, the harasser persisted, making her even more uncomfortable. In the clip, she says that she needs to leave the area, saying, "I have to run from here," and adds, "They really like to hug." Arrested for assault, obscene acts After the video went viral, the crime branch of Pimpri Chinchwad Police tracked down the suspect in the Ravet area and arrested him on Tuesday. Bharat Unchale has been charged with Indian Penal Code section 354 (assault or criminal force to a woman with intent to outrage her modesty) and section 294 (punishment for obscene acts or words in public). The police added that the matter is being further investigated. Also read | Russian tourist’s video of harassment by petrol pump worker goes viral, police take action: Video The incident reminded many of last year when another Korean woman was harassed by a man on the streets of Mumbai during her online livestream. Also read | India: BJP veterans LK Advani, MM Joshi to make 'every effort' to attend Ram Temple consecration ceremony In the December incident, the clip went viral showing the accused man grabbing the YouTuber by her hand and trying to kiss her while she was live online. Two men—Mobeen Chand Mohammad Shaikh (19) and Mohammad Naqeeb Sadrealam Ansari (20)— were later held by the Mumbai police in connection with the incident.

Indian man arrested after clip of him harassing South Korean vlogger goes viral

Neither India nor the US was responsible for Pakistan’s economic downfall, rather “‘we shot ourselves in our own foot”, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif said, indirectly blaming the military establishment for the current situation.

The 73-year-old leader made these remarks on Tuesday (Dec 19) while addressing the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) members in Islamabad, as the party gears up for the upcoming general elections in February 2024.

“Today where Pakistan has reached (in terms of the state of the economy) this is not done by India, the US or even Afghanistan. In fact, we shot ourselves in our own foot…they (a reference to the military) imposed a selected (government) on this nation by rigging the 2018 polls that led to the sufferings of the people and downfall of the economy,” Sharif, the three-time prime minister who is vying to gain power for the fourth time, said.

<h2>Sharif going soft on India?</h2>

Since returning to Pakistan in October from four years of self-imposed exile in the UK, Sharif has been making comments that seemingly reflect a softer approach towards India. It comes amidst the election frenzy in the South Asian country which has been traditionally laced with anti-India rhetoric.

The 73-year-old leader even went a step further by criticising the judges for legitimising military dictators.

“The judges garland them (military dictators) and legitimise their rule when they break the Constitution. When it comes to a prime minister the judges stamp his ouster. The judges also approve the act of dissolution of the parliament…why?” he asked.

The PML-N supremo, who was overthrown from power three times in 1993, 1999 and 2017, lashed out at former&nbsp;ISI chief Gen Faiz Hamid for engineering his ouster from power in 2017.

“A case has been opened in the Supreme Court against those (Faiz Hamid and others) who had said that if Nawaz came out of jail their two-year hard work would be wasted,” he said.

<h2>Recalls the number of times he was ousted&nbsp;</h2>

Recalling the number of times he was ousted as the PM, Nawaz said, “I was prime minister in the morning and in the evening I was declared a hijacker. Similarly in 2017, I was ousted from power for not taking salary from my son.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-ex-pm-imran-khan-starts-campaign-from-prison-using-ai-voice-clone-671331">Pakistan’s ex-PM Imran Khan starts campaign from prison using AI voice clone</a>

“They (military establishment) made this decision as they wanted to bring their selected man into power,” he said, referring to his arch-rival Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supremo Imran Khan.

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Last week, Sharif was acquitted in the Al-Azizia Steel mill corruption case. He has already been acquitted in the Avenfield graft case in which he was convicted in July 2018 and sentenced to ten years in Jail. He also got relief in the Flagship corruption case.

Neither India nor the US was responsible for Pakistan’s economic downfall, rather “‘we shot ourselves in our own foot”, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif said, indirectly blaming the military establishment for the current situation.

Neither India nor the US was responsible for Pakistan’s economic downfall, rather “‘we shot ourselves in our own foot”, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif said, indirectly blaming the military establishment for the current situation. The 73-year-old leader made these remarks on Tuesday (Dec 19) while addressing the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) members in Islamabad, as the party gears up for the upcoming general elections in February 2024. “Today where Pakistan has reached (in terms of the state of the economy) this is not done by India, the US or even Afghanistan. In fact, we shot ourselves in our own foot…they (a reference to the military) imposed a selected (government) on this nation by rigging the 2018 polls that led to the sufferings of the people and downfall of the economy,” Sharif, the three-time prime minister who is vying to gain power for the fourth time, said. Sharif going soft on India? Since returning to Pakistan in October from four years of self-imposed exile in the UK, Sharif has been making comments that seemingly reflect a softer approach towards India. It comes amidst the election frenzy in the South Asian country which has been traditionally laced with anti-India rhetoric. The 73-year-old leader even went a step further by criticising the judges for legitimising military dictators. “The judges garland them (military dictators) and legitimise their rule when they break the Constitution. When it comes to a prime minister the judges stamp his ouster. The judges also approve the act of dissolution of the parliament…why?” he asked. The PML-N supremo, who was overthrown from power three times in 1993, 1999 and 2017, lashed out at former ISI chief Gen Faiz Hamid for engineering his ouster from power in 2017. “A case has been opened in the Supreme Court against those (Faiz Hamid and others) who had said that if Nawaz came out of jail their two-year hard work would be wasted,” he said. Recalls the number of times he was ousted Recalling the number of times he was ousted as the PM, Nawaz said, “I was prime minister in the morning and in the evening I was declared a hijacker. Similarly in 2017, I was ousted from power for not taking salary from my son.” Also read | Pakistan’s ex-PM Imran Khan starts campaign from prison using AI voice clone “They (military establishment) made this decision as they wanted to bring their selected man into power,” he said, referring to his arch-rival Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supremo Imran Khan. Also read | Sri Lanka’s big blow to China: Year-long moratorium on entry of ‘spy ships’ Last week, Sharif was acquitted in the Al-Azizia Steel mill corruption case. He has already been acquitted in the Avenfield graft case in which he was convicted in July 2018 and sentenced to ten years in Jail. He also got relief in the Flagship corruption case.

‘India not responsible for Pakistan’s economy woes’, says ex-PM Nawaz Sharif, blames army

The Allahabad High Court on Tuesday (Dec 19) dismissed all petitions filed by the mosque committee challenging a civil suit pending before a lower court in Varanasi seeking the restoration of a temple at the site where the mosque exists.

The high court ordered the Varanasi court to complete the hearing of the case within six months.

The Muslim side plaintiff represents the Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee, which runs the Gyanvapi mosque, and the UP Sunni Central Waqf Board, among others.

They had challenged the maintainability of the suit, saying that it goes against the 1991 Places of Worship Act, which freeze the status of religious places of worship&nbsp;as they&nbsp;existed on August 15, 1947,&nbsp;and prohibits the conversion of any place of worship and ensures the maintenance of their&nbsp;religious character.

The only exception to this act is the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid site.

Arguing that the suit is not barred by the Places of Worship Act, the court said that the mosque complex can have either a Muslim character or a Hindu character and can't have a dual religious character.

<h2>'Suit doesn't contravene Places of Worship Act'</h2>

"The suit affects two major communities of the country...We direct the trial court to expeditiously decide the suit in 6 months," the bench of Justice Rohit Ranjan Agrawal said.

The civil suit in contention seeks to restore an ancient temple at the disputed site currently occupied by the Gyanvapi mosque, with the petitioners claiming that the mosque is a part of the temple.

The court had reserved its judgment on December 8 after hearing the counsels of the petitioners and the respondent.

On Monday, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) submitted its scientific survey report of the mosque premises, after the Varanasi court ordered to check if the late-17th century mosque was built over a Hindu temple.

<h2>About the case</h2>

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The report was submitted in a sealed document to a court of the district judge in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-asi-submits-sealed-cover-report-on-scientific-survey-of-gyanvapi-mosque-670926">India: ASI submits sealed cover report on scientific survey of ‘disputed’ Gyanvapi Mosque</a>

While the Hindu side objected to a sealed report, the Muslim side opposed a public report.

The Hindu plaintiffs claim that Mughal emperor Aurangzeb ordered the demolition of an ancient temple to make way for a mosque, which is adjacent to the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

&nbsp;

The Allahabad High Court on Tuesday (Dec 19) dismissed all petitions filed by the mosque committee challenging a civil suit pending before a lower court in Varanasi seeking the restoration of a temple at the site where the mosque exists.

The Allahabad High Court on Tuesday (Dec 19) dismissed all petitions filed by the mosque committee challenging a civil suit pending before a lower court in Varanasi seeking the restoration of a temple at the site where the mosque exists. The high court ordered the Varanasi court to complete the hearing of the case within six months. The Muslim side plaintiff represents the Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee, which runs the Gyanvapi mosque, and the UP Sunni Central Waqf Board, among others. They had challenged the maintainability of the suit, saying that it goes against the 1991 Places of Worship Act, which freeze the status of religious places of worship as they existed on August 15, 1947, and prohibits the conversion of any place of worship and ensures the maintenance of their religious character. The only exception to this act is the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid site. Arguing that the suit is not barred by the Places of Worship Act, the court said that the mosque complex can have either a Muslim character or a Hindu character and can't have a dual religious character. 'Suit doesn't contravene Places of Worship Act' "The suit affects two major communities of the country...We direct the trial court to expeditiously decide the suit in 6 months," the bench of Justice Rohit Ranjan Agrawal said. The civil suit in contention seeks to restore an ancient temple at the disputed site currently occupied by the Gyanvapi mosque, with the petitioners claiming that the mosque is a part of the temple. The court had reserved its judgment on December 8 after hearing the counsels of the petitioners and the respondent. On Monday, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) submitted its scientific survey report of the mosque premises, after the Varanasi court ordered to check if the late-17th century mosque was built over a Hindu temple. About the case Also read | Chennai rains: 3 dead, 800 stranded on railway station; more rainfall expected The report was submitted in a sealed document to a court of the district judge in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi. Also read | India: ASI submits sealed cover report on scientific survey of ‘disputed’ Gyanvapi Mosque While the Hindu side objected to a sealed report, the Muslim side opposed a public report. The Hindu plaintiffs claim that Mughal emperor Aurangzeb ordered the demolition of an ancient temple to make way for a mosque, which is adjacent to the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

Gyanvapi mosque case: Indian court dismisses masjid committee’s plea seeking dismissal of civil suit

Researchers have discovered a new creature considered to be “very rare” and endangered on the French island of Corsica.

This rare species of bat was found fluttering around the mountainous Mediterranean island, which is located about 250 miles southeast of Marseille, the study published in October in the journal Revue suisse de Zoologie noted.

<h2>Isolated for many years</h2>

After performing the DNA analysis of their tissue samples, the researchers found that the bat discovered in the mountains belonged to a previously unknown species in the genus Myptis, which has over 120 species found throughout six continents.

This newfound species was named ‘nustrale’, which means “ours” in the Corsican dialect, the researchers said.

According to the study, the creature, which may have been genetically isolated for “a long time",&nbsp;is considered to be medium-sized, measuring about an inch and a half long.

This bat is grey in colour and has long ears and a hairy face. The researchers said that it is distinguished by a “conspicuous” dark spot on its lower lip, which is absent on other members of the genus.

<h2>Vulnerable to climate change&nbsp;</h2>

These bats hunt in the island’s dense evergreen forests and roost in cliffs and rocky outcroppings, researchers said. A colony of about 60 individuals was also found in an artificial tunnel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-chum-salmon-breeding-in-arctic-and-they-believe-its-an-ominous-sign-670905">Chum salmon are breeding in Arctic, and it is 'an ominous sign’ for humanity</a>

“This new species is endemic to Corsica and is apparently very rare and essentially localised to mountain forests,” researchers said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/after-delay-spacex-locks-launch-date-for-us-militarys-x-37b-secret-plane-670432">After delay, SpaceX locks launch date for US military's X-37B secret plane</a>

“Owing to its restricted distribution, its small population size, and limited population connectivity, it seems highly vulnerable to climate change and thus should be classified as endangered,” researchers added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers have discovered a new creature considered to be “very rare” and endangered on the French island of Corsica. This rare species of bat was found fluttering around the mountainous Mediterranean island, which is located about 250 miles southeast of Marseille, the study published in October in the journal Revue suisse de Zoologie noted.

Researchers have discovered a new creature considered to be “very rare” and endangered on the French island of Corsica. This rare species of bat was found fluttering around the mountainous Mediterranean island, which is located about 250 miles southeast of Marseille, the study published in October in the journal Revue suisse de Zoologie noted. Isolated for many years After performing the DNA analysis of their tissue samples, the researchers found that the bat discovered in the mountains belonged to a previously unknown species in the genus Myptis, which has over 120 species found throughout six continents. This newfound species was named ‘nustrale’, which means “ours” in the Corsican dialect, the researchers said. According to the study, the creature, which may have been genetically isolated for “a long time", is considered to be medium-sized, measuring about an inch and a half long. This bat is grey in colour and has long ears and a hairy face. The researchers said that it is distinguished by a “conspicuous” dark spot on its lower lip, which is absent on other members of the genus. Vulnerable to climate change These bats hunt in the island’s dense evergreen forests and roost in cliffs and rocky outcroppings, researchers said. A colony of about 60 individuals was also found in an artificial tunnel. Also read | Chum salmon are breeding in Arctic, and it is 'an ominous sign’ for humanity “This new species is endemic to Corsica and is apparently very rare and essentially localised to mountain forests,” researchers said. Also read | After delay, SpaceX locks launch date for US military's X-37B secret plane “Owing to its restricted distribution, its small population size, and limited population connectivity, it seems highly vulnerable to climate change and thus should be classified as endangered,” researchers added. (With inputs from agencies)

An extremely rare and endangered bat species has been found in Corsica in France

Chum salmon, a species of anadromous salmonid fish, have found a new location to spawn—the Arctic waters, and the scientists are alarmed.

Chum salmon are said to be anadromous, which means they hatch in freshwater streams and rivers and then migrate out to the saltwater environment of the ocean to feed and grow.

They do not reside in fresh water for an extended period.

However, scientists have recently discovered that these migrating fish have been spawning in uncharted waters.

They believe that due to unprecedented warming of the waters, an after-effect of climate change, the Arctic is becoming conducive for them to breed in large numbers.

<h2>Arctic waters warming at a faster rate&nbsp;</h2>

According to ‘Nature’ journal, the Arctic is warming four times faster than the rest of the planet. Scientists say that this could explain the presence of chum salmon farther north.

“What seems to be happening is that these Arctic rivers are just now starting to become suitable,” Peter Westley, an ecologist at the University of Alaska, to Wired outlet.

However, these biologists are yet to figure out how increased salmon counts in far northern rivers will impact other species relied upon by locals in the region.

One plausible reason being given is that salmon lay a bunch of eggs, and then die, as part of their life cycle, and it might provide food for other species.

<h2>Presence signals overall ecological change&nbsp;</h2>

But they have also warned that migration their presence signals an overall ecological change, including melting ice, and more green growth, among others.

One concern deals with all the extra water created by ice melt. Wired reported that experts are concerned new flows will degrade the soil, mixing aboveground water with underground springs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-identifies-17-exoplanets-hosting-hidden-oceans-beneath-icy-shells-erupting-geysers-670260">NASA identifies 17 exoplanets hosting 'hidden' oceans beneath icy shells, erupting geyser</a>

More vegetation — even taller shrubs — can have implications. They can trap snow on the soil, insulating the ground, and preventing it from freezing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/iss-astronaut-snaps-photos-of-icebergs-a-reminder-of-climate-change-670133">ISS astronaut snaps photos of icebergs - a reminder of climate change</a>

“That could accelerate the thawing of permafrost, which in turn would release planet-heating methane,” Wired reported.

Researchers are now placing sensors in the Arctic to measure water temperature, as it can help them determine if the waters are hospitable to an expanded salmon presence.

(With inputs from agencies)

Chum salmon, a species of anadromous salmonid fish, have found a new location to spawn—the Arctic waters, and the scientists are alarmed. Chum salmon are said to be anadromous, which means they hatch in freshwater streams and rivers and then migrate out to the saltwater environment of the ocean to feed and grow.

Chum salmon, a species of anadromous salmonid fish, have found a new location to spawn—the Arctic waters, and the scientists are alarmed. Chum salmon are said to be anadromous, which means they hatch in freshwater streams and rivers and then migrate out to the saltwater environment of the ocean to feed and grow. They do not reside in fresh water for an extended period. However, scientists have recently discovered that these migrating fish have been spawning in uncharted waters. They believe that due to unprecedented warming of the waters, an after-effect of climate change, the Arctic is becoming conducive for them to breed in large numbers. Arctic waters warming at a faster rate According to ‘Nature’ journal, the Arctic is warming four times faster than the rest of the planet. Scientists say that this could explain the presence of chum salmon farther north. “What seems to be happening is that these Arctic rivers are just now starting to become suitable,” Peter Westley, an ecologist at the University of Alaska, to Wired outlet. However, these biologists are yet to figure out how increased salmon counts in far northern rivers will impact other species relied upon by locals in the region. One plausible reason being given is that salmon lay a bunch of eggs, and then die, as part of their life cycle, and it might provide food for other species. Presence signals overall ecological change But they have also warned that migration their presence signals an overall ecological change, including melting ice, and more green growth, among others. One concern deals with all the extra water created by ice melt. Wired reported that experts are concerned new flows will degrade the soil, mixing aboveground water with underground springs. Also read | NASA identifies 17 exoplanets hosting 'hidden' oceans beneath icy shells, erupting geyser More vegetation — even taller shrubs — can have implications. They can trap snow on the soil, insulating the ground, and preventing it from freezing. Also read | ISS astronaut snaps photos of icebergs - a reminder of climate change “That could accelerate the thawing of permafrost, which in turn would release planet-heating methane,” Wired reported. Researchers are now placing sensors in the Arctic to measure water temperature, as it can help them determine if the waters are hospitable to an expanded salmon presence. (With inputs from agencies)

Chum salmon are breeding in Arctic, and it is 'an ominous sign’ for humanity

Whether Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan will be released from jail before the commencement of the general elections is anyone’s guess, but that won’t stop him from campaigning.

On Sunday evening (Dec 17), the leaders of&nbsp;his party,&nbsp;the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), released a voice clone of the cricketer-turned-politician that was made using artificial intelligence (AI).

Calling it a “virtual rally”, a 4-minute message of the 71-year-old leader was played out on social media despite nationwide internet disruptions monitored by NetBlocks.

It was viewed by more than 4.5 million people across Facebook, X and YouTube.

PTI told AFP news agency that Khan sent a shorthand script through lawyers that was meshed out into his rhetorical style.

The text was then dubbed into audio using a tool from the AI firm ElevenLabs, which boasts the ability to create a “voice clone” from existing speech samples.

<h2>AI makes debut in Pakistan's politics&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

“My fellow Pakistanis, I would first like to praise the social media team for this historic attempt,” the voice mimicking Khan said. “Maybe you all are wondering how I am doing in jail. Today, my determination for real freedom is very strong.”

According to PTI, the audio was bookended with genuine video clips from the Khan’s former speeches. However, the caption appearing at regular intervals said that it was the “AI voice of Imran Khan based on his notes”.

“This was a no-brainer for us, when Imran Khan is no longer there to meet at a political rally,” said the PTI social media chief Jibran Ilyas who is based in the US. “It was to get over the suppression.”

<h2>Parties gear up for Feb 8</h2>

The use of AI reflects PTI’s focus on its digital reach which has aided them to target younger audiences, who carried them to power five years ago.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-big-blow-to-china-year-long-moratorium-on-entry-of-spy-ships-671275">Sri Lanka’s big blow to China: Year-long moratorium on entry of ‘spy ships’</a>

“We wanted to get in election mode. No PTI political rally is complete without Imran Khan,” Ilyas told AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-grants-judges-spouses-airport-body-search-exemption-report-670583">Pakistan grants judges, their spouses exemption from body search at airports: Report</a>

Even as political parties are gearing up for the elections that will be held on February 8, Khan’s PTI party has been in disarray after several of its leaders were jailed and many defected in the aftermath the violent protests targeting army installations.

While behind bars Khan was replaced as the leader of PTI, his supporters still consider the former premier to be the figurehead of the party.

(With inputs from agencies)

Whether Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan will be released from jail before the commencement of the general elections is anyone’s guess, but that won’t stop him from campaigning.

Whether Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan will be released from jail before the commencement of the general elections is anyone’s guess, but that won’t stop him from campaigning. On Sunday evening (Dec 17), the leaders of his party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), released a voice clone of the cricketer-turned-politician that was made using artificial intelligence (AI). Calling it a “virtual rally”, a 4-minute message of the 71-year-old leader was played out on social media despite nationwide internet disruptions monitored by NetBlocks. It was viewed by more than 4.5 million people across Facebook, X and YouTube. PTI told AFP news agency that Khan sent a shorthand script through lawyers that was meshed out into his rhetorical style. The text was then dubbed into audio using a tool from the AI firm ElevenLabs, which boasts the ability to create a “voice clone” from existing speech samples. AI makes debut in Pakistan's politics “My fellow Pakistanis, I would first like to praise the social media team for this historic attempt,” the voice mimicking Khan said. “Maybe you all are wondering how I am doing in jail. Today, my determination for real freedom is very strong.” According to PTI, the audio was bookended with genuine video clips from the Khan’s former speeches. However, the caption appearing at regular intervals said that it was the “AI voice of Imran Khan based on his notes”. “This was a no-brainer for us, when Imran Khan is no longer there to meet at a political rally,” said the PTI social media chief Jibran Ilyas who is based in the US. “It was to get over the suppression.” Parties gear up for Feb 8 The use of AI reflects PTI’s focus on its digital reach which has aided them to target younger audiences, who carried them to power five years ago. Also read | Sri Lanka’s big blow to China: Year-long moratorium on entry of ‘spy ships’ “We wanted to get in election mode. No PTI political rally is complete without Imran Khan,” Ilyas told AFP. Also read | Pakistan grants judges, their spouses exemption from body search at airports: Report Even as political parties are gearing up for the elections that will be held on February 8, Khan’s PTI party has been in disarray after several of its leaders were jailed and many defected in the aftermath the violent protests targeting army installations. While behind bars Khan was replaced as the leader of PTI, his supporters still consider the former premier to be the figurehead of the party. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan’s ex-PM Imran Khan starts campaign from prison using AI voice clone

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Zee News Rajasthan

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