As the US elections grow closer, a shift in power is being observed, and the current civil crisis is not helping the current US President Donald Trump win hearts...or votes of public and fellow politicians.

Following the coronavirus crisis and civil unrest in the country, former Secretary of State Colin Powell on Sunday endorsed Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden, instead of Donald Trump.

Colin Powell is a Republican who led the US military during the 1991 Gulf War in Iraq under President George H.W. Bush and later headed the State Department under President George W. Bush.

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Explaining his choice in 2020 elections, Powell alleged that Trump "lies all the time," and has "drifted away" from the U.S. Constitution. He also stated that Trump, the infamous American President, poses a danger to American democracy.

"I cannot in any way support President Trump this year," Powell, who did not vote for the Republican president in 2016, told a local news channel.

Responding to the news, Trump called Powell a stiff and blamed him for getting the US tangled in the Middle East Wars.

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Colin Powell, a real stiff who was very responsible for getting us into the disastrous Middle East Wars, just announced he will be voting for another stiff, Sleepy Joe Biden. Didn’t Powell say that Iraq had “weapons of mass destruction?” They didn’t, but off we went to WAR!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1269634983687315457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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While it is very rare for Republicans to openly condemn Donald Trump, this is not the first time he has faced criticism in the past month.&nbsp;

Trump has been attracting a lot of criticism for the current crisis that the country is going through -- rise in number of coronaviorus cases, civil unrest due to murders of African-American community and a sharp economic downfall.

Last week, Trump's former defense secretary, retired General Jim Mattis, denounced what he called Trump's "deliberate" efforts to divide the country.&nbsp;Former Joint Chiefs of Staff chairmen Michael Mullen and Martin Dempsey have also criticized Trump's handling of the unrest.

Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski said last week that she was "struggling" with whether to support Trump's reelection, while Republican Senator Mitt Romney praised Mattis' words.

With a rapid increase in the death toll, number of coronavirus cases and number of people out on roads protesting against racism faced by minority groups, Trump holds a sensitive position at getting reelected in 2020 elections.

(With inputs from Reuters)

As the US elections grow closer, a shift in power is being observed, and the current civil crisis is not helping the current US President Donald Trump win hearts.

As the US elections grow closer, a shift in power is being observed, and the current civil crisis is not helping the current US President Donald Trump win hearts...or votes of public and fellow politicians. Following the coronavirus crisis and civil unrest in the country, former Secretary of State Colin Powell on Sunday endorsed Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden, instead of Donald Trump. Colin Powell is a Republican who led the US military during the 1991 Gulf War in Iraq under President George H.W. Bush and later headed the State Department under President George W. Bush. Also read: Minneapolis council votes to dismantle police over George Floyd's death Explaining his choice in 2020 elections, Powell alleged that Trump "lies all the time," and has "drifted away" from the U.S. Constitution. He also stated that Trump, the infamous American President, poses a danger to American democracy. "I cannot in any way support President Trump this year," Powell, who did not vote for the Republican president in 2016, told a local news channel. Responding to the news, Trump called Powell a stiff and blamed him for getting the US tangled in the Middle East Wars. Colin Powell, a real stiff who was very responsible for getting us into the disastrous Middle East Wars, just announced he will be voting for another stiff, Sleepy Joe Biden. Didn’t Powell say that Iraq had “weapons of mass destruction?” They didn’t, but off we went to WAR! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 7, 2020 × While it is very rare for Republicans to openly condemn Donald Trump, this is not the first time he has faced criticism in the past month. Trump has been attracting a lot of criticism for the current crisis that the country is going through -- rise in number of coronaviorus cases, civil unrest due to murders of African-American community and a sharp economic downfall. Last week, Trump's former defense secretary, retired General Jim Mattis, denounced what he called Trump's "deliberate" efforts to divide the country. Former Joint Chiefs of Staff chairmen Michael Mullen and Martin Dempsey have also criticized Trump's handling of the unrest. Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski said last week that she was "struggling" with whether to support Trump's reelection, while Republican Senator Mitt Romney praised Mattis' words. With a rapid increase in the death toll, number of coronavirus cases and number of people out on roads protesting against racism faced by minority groups, Trump holds a sensitive position at getting reelected in 2020 elections. (With inputs from Reuters)

Trump is a threat to American democracy: Colin Powell picks Biden

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Protesters in UK topple slave trader's statue, throw it in harbour Prime minister Boris Johnson condemned the attack saying: "These demonstrations have been subverted by thuggery - and they are a betrayal of the cause they purport to serve.

Protesters in UK topple slave trader's statue, throw it in harbour Prime minister Boris Johnson condemned the attack saying: "These demonstrations have been subverted by thuggery - and they are a betrayal of the cause they purport to serve." READ MORE Pope Francis tells Italians not to celebrate victory over coronavirus too soon Pope Francis on Sunday urged the Italians to obey the government rules on social distancing and wearing masks and asked them to remain alert despite infection rates have fallen. READ MORE COVID 19: India gears up for Unlock 1.0; devotees flock to religious places In all public places, it is compulsory for people to wear masks and maintain social distance from each other. At no point will an individual be allowed to come in physical contact with another person. READ MORE China exploiting George Floyd's death for political gain: Mike Pompeo × Israelis protest against annexation of West Bank ×

Morning news brief: UK protestors topple slave trader's statue; India gears up for Unlock 1.0 and more

Today in history: Venera 9 launched to Venus, NZ becomes nuclear-free and more

When the state government has not decided to open schools and colleges until COVID-19 situation subsides, how can 9 lakh students, 2 lakh teachers and thousands of non-teaching staff be forced to risk their lives attending class 10 board exams from June 15, questioned a bench of the Madras High Court.&nbsp;

Hearing a case against the Tamil Nadu&nbsp;government’s decision to conduct Class 10 exams from June 15, a bench comprising Justice Vineet Kothari and R Suresh Kumar wanted to know what was the hurry in conducting exams amid rising COVID-19 cases in the state. The Tamil Nadu High and Higher Secondary School Graduate Teachers Association had approached the court seeking to prevent the State government from conducting Class 10 board exams starting 15 June.

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The petitioner stated that the decision to conduct board exams from mid-June was taken in the month of May and it might have been under the impression that the COVID-19 situation would improve in the state. It was also stated that there were over 12,000 examination centers for Class 10, thus indicating the manpower required amid the prevailing scenario where Tamil Nadu has seen 31,667 total COVID-19 cases of which 14,396 are active, while the state has been seeing a daily increase of over 1,000 cases for the last one week.

The Additional Advocate General responded saying that there appeared to be a meeting between the Chief Minister and School Education Minister regarding the same.&nbsp;

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The Court asked if there was any outcome from the meeting, adding that any decision on postponement of exams must be taken immediately without keeping parents and students on tenterhooks.&nbsp;

The bench also lashed out at the State Government, saying that conducting class 10 exams were unlike re-opening of TASMAC (state-run liquor outlets) during the lockdown. “Can the state government give an undertaking that no student will get infected by COVID-19 if it is allowed to conduct the 10th grade board exams from June 15th” the bench questioned.&nbsp;

Stating that it is well and good if the Tamil Nadu&nbsp;Government itself postpones the exams without letting the Damocles Sword hang over students heads till the eleventh hour.&nbsp;

The High Court is to hear the case against Class X exams again at 2:30pm and seek the response of the State Government, however the Court has said that it is Prima facie satisfied that the Government decision to conduct board exams from June 15&nbsp;must be stayed.

When the state government has not decided to open schools and colleges until COVID-19 situation subsides, how can 9 lakh students, 2 lakh teachers and thousands of non-teaching staff be forced to risk their lives attending class 10 board exams from June 15, questioned a bench of the Madras High Court.

When the state government has not decided to open schools and colleges until COVID-19 situation subsides, how can 9 lakh students, 2 lakh teachers and thousands of non-teaching staff be forced to risk their lives attending class 10 board exams from June 15, questioned a bench of the Madras High Court. Hearing a case against the Tamil Nadu government’s decision to conduct Class 10 exams from June 15, a bench comprising Justice Vineet Kothari and R Suresh Kumar wanted to know what was the hurry in conducting exams amid rising COVID-19 cases in the state. The Tamil Nadu High and Higher Secondary School Graduate Teachers Association had approached the court seeking to prevent the State government from conducting Class 10 board exams starting 15 June. Also read: Creativity can't be transferred through online classes: Kasturirangan The petitioner stated that the decision to conduct board exams from mid-June was taken in the month of May and it might have been under the impression that the COVID-19 situation would improve in the state. It was also stated that there were over 12,000 examination centers for Class 10, thus indicating the manpower required amid the prevailing scenario where Tamil Nadu has seen 31,667 total COVID-19 cases of which 14,396 are active, while the state has been seeing a daily increase of over 1,000 cases for the last one week. The Additional Advocate General responded saying that there appeared to be a meeting between the Chief Minister and School Education Minister regarding the same. Also read: Eminent scientist suggests shift-system in schools when they reopen The Court asked if there was any outcome from the meeting, adding that any decision on postponement of exams must be taken immediately without keeping parents and students on tenterhooks. The bench also lashed out at the State Government, saying that conducting class 10 exams were unlike re-opening of TASMAC (state-run liquor outlets) during the lockdown. “Can the state government give an undertaking that no student will get infected by COVID-19 if it is allowed to conduct the 10th grade board exams from June 15th” the bench questioned. Stating that it is well and good if the Tamil Nadu Government itself postpones the exams without letting the Damocles Sword hang over students heads till the eleventh hour. The High Court is to hear the case against Class X exams again at 2:30pm and seek the response of the State Government, however the Court has said that it is Prima facie satisfied that the Government decision to conduct board exams from June 15 must be stayed.

Why risk lakhs of lives: Madras HC asks TN Govt on having Class X exams

Asia`s largest slum Dharavi, which was once a hotspot of coronavirus infection with rapidly increasing COVID-19 positive cases, has now in the last seven days not recorded a single person to the virus and has also seen a decline in the number of positive cases as well.

According to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) official data, June 1, there were 34 cases of COVID-19 positive reported from Dharavi whereas, on June 7, a total of 13 cases were reported.

Further, on June 6, Dharavi had recorded only 10 COVID-19 positive cases. On June 5 there were 17 positive cases while on June 4, it reported 23 positive cases. Hence, as per official data, the curve of COVID-19 positive cases in Dharavi slum has started showing a declining trend.The total positive cases in Dharavi stands at 1,912 as on June 7. Since May 30, in the last 7 days, there were no deaths due to COVID-19 in Dharavi which is a sign of relief.

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Assistant Municipal Commissioner of BMC Kiran Dighawkar who is also in charge of Dharavi`s Mission Corona said: "The aggressive screening in Dharavi area has helped in lowering the positive cases. Nearly 6 to 7 lakh people have been screened home to home by BMC health workers, private clinic doctors, mobile van, Municipal dispensary, etc."

He further added: "We worked on the formula of screen maximum people for fever, oxygen level and other symptoms and isolate them and test them proactively."

According to data available with BMC, Dharavi has a population of 8.5 lakh. A total of 8,500 people from the area were kept in government quarantine facilities at various places.BMC has tested 4,000 people while 1,350 people were tested through fever camps set up in Dharavi.

This slum in central Mumbai had become the hotspot of corona infection since the first case was detected here on April 1, a week after the national lockdown came into force.

Asia`s largest slum Dharavi, which was once a hotspot of coronavirus infection with rapidly increasing COVID-19 positive cases, has now in the last seven days not recorded a single person to the virus and has also seen a decline in the number of positive cases as well.

Asia`s largest slum Dharavi, which was once a hotspot of coronavirus infection with rapidly increasing COVID-19 positive cases, has now in the last seven days not recorded a single person to the virus and has also seen a decline in the number of positive cases as well. According to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) official data, June 1, there were 34 cases of COVID-19 positive reported from Dharavi whereas, on June 7, a total of 13 cases were reported. Further, on June 6, Dharavi had recorded only 10 COVID-19 positive cases. On June 5 there were 17 positive cases while on June 4, it reported 23 positive cases. Hence, as per official data, the curve of COVID-19 positive cases in Dharavi slum has started showing a declining trend.The total positive cases in Dharavi stands at 1,912 as on June 7. Since May 30, in the last 7 days, there were no deaths due to COVID-19 in Dharavi which is a sign of relief. Also read: COVID 19: India gears up for Unlock 1.0; devotees flock to religious places Assistant Municipal Commissioner of BMC Kiran Dighawkar who is also in charge of Dharavi`s Mission Corona said: "The aggressive screening in Dharavi area has helped in lowering the positive cases. Nearly 6 to 7 lakh people have been screened home to home by BMC health workers, private clinic doctors, mobile van, Municipal dispensary, etc." He further added: "We worked on the formula of screen maximum people for fever, oxygen level and other symptoms and isolate them and test them proactively." According to data available with BMC, Dharavi has a population of 8.5 lakh. A total of 8,500 people from the area were kept in government quarantine facilities at various places.BMC has tested 4,000 people while 1,350 people were tested through fever camps set up in Dharavi. This slum in central Mumbai had become the hotspot of corona infection since the first case was detected here on April 1, a week after the national lockdown came into force.

Once a coronavirus hotspot of Mumbai, Dharavi records no deaths during last 7 days

Pakistan is yet to respond to New Delhi's suggestion on jointly dealing with the locust crisis. This comes even as Islamabad has claimed that it cooperating with regional countries including India to deal with the crisis that can majorly impact the food security in the region.

Indian Government sources told WION, "we have not heard anything to our proposal for coordinated locust control operations along the border and even to facilitate supply of pesticide."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-deploys-thousands-of-army-troops-to-battle-locust-invasion-303936">Also watch:&nbsp;Pak deploys thousands of army troops to battle locust invasion</a>

Earlier today, Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson Aisha Farooqui, in response to the question Indian offer to jointly deal with locust crisis said India is "cooperating with all regional countries to fight desert locust invasion under a forum administered by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)...SWAC - Commission for Controlling the Desert Locust in Southwest Asia"

Adding, "Pakistan remains committed to cooperating with all SWAC member states, including India, in combating Desert Locust outbreak" and "The cooperation is “fruitful” in exchanging information in the bordering areas of Pakistan and India."

Sources reacting to it said, "Seems it is usual issue of saying something and do something else. They remain reticent. Seems they want to underplay the problem that is there in Pakistan."

India and Iran are already cooperating to deal with the crisis with New Delhi supplying with pesticide. The 2019–20 locust infestation has impacted more than 10 countries in Africa and South Asia and Iran, India and Pakistan are currently affected by the crisis.

Pakistan is yet to respond to New Delhi's suggestion on jointly dealing with the locust crisis. This comes even as Islamabad has claimed that it cooperating with regional countries including India to deal with the crisis that can majorly impact the food security in the region.

Pakistan is yet to respond to New Delhi's suggestion on jointly dealing with the locust crisis. This comes even as Islamabad has claimed that it cooperating with regional countries including India to deal with the crisis that can majorly impact the food security in the region. Indian Government sources told WION, "we have not heard anything to our proposal for coordinated locust control operations along the border and even to facilitate supply of pesticide." Also watch: Pak deploys thousands of army troops to battle locust invasion Earlier today, Pakistan foreign ministry spokesperson Aisha Farooqui, in response to the question Indian offer to jointly deal with locust crisis said India is "cooperating with all regional countries to fight desert locust invasion under a forum administered by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)...SWAC - Commission for Controlling the Desert Locust in Southwest Asia" Adding, "Pakistan remains committed to cooperating with all SWAC member states, including India, in combating Desert Locust outbreak" and "The cooperation is “fruitful” in exchanging information in the bordering areas of Pakistan and India." Sources reacting to it said, "Seems it is usual issue of saying something and do something else. They remain reticent. Seems they want to underplay the problem that is there in Pakistan." India and Iran are already cooperating to deal with the crisis with New Delhi supplying with pesticide. The 2019–20 locust infestation has impacted more than 10 countries in Africa and South Asia and Iran, India and Pakistan are currently affected by the crisis.

Pakistan yet to respond on Indian suggestion on jointly dealing with locust crisis

Unlock 1.0: Wearing masks to not touching idols - devotees offer prayers from distance

A two-seater trainer aircraft crashed in Dhenkanal district in Odisha on early Monday morning. The aircraft was carrying a trainee pilot and an instructor.

Captain Sanjib Kumar Jha from Bihar and Anis Fatima, a trainee pilot, lost their lives in the crash.

The crash happened at Birasal Airstrip under Kankadahad police station limits in Dhenkanal district, shortly after its take-off at 6:30am.

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The trainee was from Tamil Nadu and was flying a Cessna FA-152 VT-ENF trainer aircraft.

Soon after the reports of the incident Dhenkanal SP Anupama James reached the spot and started the investigation.

The two pilots were announced dead on reaching hospital. The bodies of the instructor and the trainee pilot have been sent for postmortem.

Initial reports have suggested that after reaching the height of around 15 to 20 feet the aircraft suddenly plunged and crashed.&nbsp;Investigations have started, and more details are awaited.

A two-seater trainer aircraft crashed in Dhenkanal district in Odisha on early Monday morning. The aircraft was carrying a trainee pilot and an instructor. Captain Sanjib Kumar Jha from Bihar and Anis Fatima, a trainee pilot, lost their lives in the crash.

A two-seater trainer aircraft crashed in Dhenkanal district in Odisha on early Monday morning. The aircraft was carrying a trainee pilot and an instructor. Captain Sanjib Kumar Jha from Bihar and Anis Fatima, a trainee pilot, lost their lives in the crash. The crash happened at Birasal Airstrip under Kankadahad police station limits in Dhenkanal district, shortly after its take-off at 6:30am. Also read: Strong winds, rainfall hit Odisha's Bhadrak ahead of cyclone Amphan The trainee was from Tamil Nadu and was flying a Cessna FA-152 VT-ENF trainer aircraft. Soon after the reports of the incident Dhenkanal SP Anupama James reached the spot and started the investigation. The two pilots were announced dead on reaching hospital. The bodies of the instructor and the trainee pilot have been sent for postmortem. Initial reports have suggested that after reaching the height of around 15 to 20 feet the aircraft suddenly plunged and crashed. Investigations have started, and more details are awaited.

Two killed in a trainer aircraft crash in Odisha

Terming the Electricity Amendment Bill 2020 as "harmful" for the poor and farmers, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has urged the Centre to put the proposed bill on hold for the time being, considering the current situation in the country.

In his letter written to Union Minister of State for Power RK Singh, the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister said that the Electricity Amendment Bill 2020 proposed by the Central Government is harmful to the lower strata of the society as the provision of cross-subsidy in the proposed bill is "impractical" and not in the interest of farmers and poor.

Baghel said the farmers will face crisis regarding irrigation of crops if the subsidy on electricity given to farmers is not continued and this will affect the production of food grains and the country will face a crisis. Therefore, the present provision of giving electricity subsidy to the people and farmer of the poor section of the society is tested and according to the need of the hour, he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/resolving-clean-water-woes-of-rural-india-303574">Also read:&nbsp;Resolving clean water woes of rural India</a>

The Chief Minister said that the labourers and farmers, who have made the country self-reliant in food with their hard work, should be respected. He said it is necessary to give concession to people and farmers of the poor section of the society to make them self-sufficient and competent.

Baghel urged all state governments to consult and take care of the interests of the poorer sections of the society and the common people before implementing the amendment bill prepared by the Union Ministry of Power.

The Chief Minister said that the Direct Benefit Transfer System, which is currently in force, is correct. By changing this, the poor section of the society and small and marginal farmers will be deprived of benefits. The Chief Minister said that if a farmer consumes one thousand units of electricity for irrigation of crops every month during the farming season, then he will have to pay a bill of seven to eight thousand rupees, which will be impossible for him to pay.

He said the reduction of the rights of the State Governments and the appointment of the State Electricity Regulatory Commission under the Union government through this amendment is contrary to the system of a federal structure.

The bill provides only advice to states regarding the formation of the State Electricity Regulatory Commission, the consent of the state is not necessary in relation to the appointment. This provision is a clear violation of the powers of the State Government, the statement said.

The Electricity Amendment Bill 2020 provides for the promotion of privatisation in the field of electricity. Under this, there is also a provision for the appointment of sub-licensees and franchisees.

This provision is against the policy of checks and balances as sub-licensees and franchisees are not obliged to take licenses from the regulatory commission. From this, it is clear that it is also contrary to the principle of right and duty, the statement added.

Terming the Electricity Amendment Bill 2020 as "harmful" for the poor and farmers, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has urged the Centre to put the proposed bill on hold for the time being, considering the current situation in the country.

Terming the Electricity Amendment Bill 2020 as "harmful" for the poor and farmers, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has urged the Centre to put the proposed bill on hold for the time being, considering the current situation in the country. In his letter written to Union Minister of State for Power RK Singh, the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister said that the Electricity Amendment Bill 2020 proposed by the Central Government is harmful to the lower strata of the society as the provision of cross-subsidy in the proposed bill is "impractical" and not in the interest of farmers and poor. Baghel said the farmers will face crisis regarding irrigation of crops if the subsidy on electricity given to farmers is not continued and this will affect the production of food grains and the country will face a crisis. Therefore, the present provision of giving electricity subsidy to the people and farmer of the poor section of the society is tested and according to the need of the hour, he added. Also read: Resolving clean water woes of rural India The Chief Minister said that the labourers and farmers, who have made the country self-reliant in food with their hard work, should be respected. He said it is necessary to give concession to people and farmers of the poor section of the society to make them self-sufficient and competent. Baghel urged all state governments to consult and take care of the interests of the poorer sections of the society and the common people before implementing the amendment bill prepared by the Union Ministry of Power. The Chief Minister said that the Direct Benefit Transfer System, which is currently in force, is correct. By changing this, the poor section of the society and small and marginal farmers will be deprived of benefits. The Chief Minister said that if a farmer consumes one thousand units of electricity for irrigation of crops every month during the farming season, then he will have to pay a bill of seven to eight thousand rupees, which will be impossible for him to pay. He said the reduction of the rights of the State Governments and the appointment of the State Electricity Regulatory Commission under the Union government through this amendment is contrary to the system of a federal structure. The bill provides only advice to states regarding the formation of the State Electricity Regulatory Commission, the consent of the state is not necessary in relation to the appointment. This provision is a clear violation of the powers of the State Government, the statement said. The Electricity Amendment Bill 2020 provides for the promotion of privatisation in the field of electricity. Under this, there is also a provision for the appointment of sub-licensees and franchisees. This provision is against the policy of checks and balances as sub-licensees and franchisees are not obliged to take licenses from the regulatory commission. From this, it is clear that it is also contrary to the principle of right and duty, the statement added.

Electricity Amendment Bill 2020 not in interest of farmers, poor: Chhattisgarh CM

The concept of online teaching-learning for school children - has not found favour with eminent scientist K Kasturirangan, who says direct physical and mental connection is important to bring out aspects such as playfulness and creativity in them.

The National Education Policy, 2019, draft committee chairperson stressed the need for face-to-face contacts, interactions, exchange of ideas and thoughts as he backed the traditional mode, amid a debate on online classes for children due to COVID-19-induced closure of schools.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eminent-scientist-suggests-shift-system-in-schools-when-they-reopen-303968">Also read:&nbsp;Eminent scientist suggests shift-system in schools when they reopen</a>

"Fundamentally, the physical and mental connection with children directly is extremely important. Playfulness, creativity and many other aspects can never be transferred through online learning", Kasturirangan, who was Chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation between 1994 and 2003, told PTI.

He said 86 per cent of the brain grows by the age of eight, adding that issues associated with the early phase of children need to be assessed and evaluated carefully and any kind of new approach needs a scientific basis.

"Development of a brain is a continuous process within these eight years, and if you dont stimulate the brain properly by continuous interactions, then obviously you are missing a chance of really getting the best out of youngsters in terms of brain boat and performance, the recipient of Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan said.

"There are issues of these which need to be analysed very carefully. Just the kind of solutions that we talk of for higher education like online and so on may not be the way to deal when it comes to dealing with the early phase of children, the former Rajya Sabha member said.

The issue of online education for school children needs to be looked into very carefully and one should not jump into any kind of approach without any scientific basis.

"There is much to be evaluated, and it has to be assessed", underlined Kasturirangan, who had also served as a Member of the now-defunct Planning Commission of India.

Another acclaimed scientist, Prof. C N R Rao, who was awarded 'Bharat Ratna' in 2014, also spoke out recently against introducing online classes for children, underscoring the importance of human interface for good communication and inspiring young minds.

The Honorary President of the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, and the Linus Pauling Research Professor said online classes for young children such as KG, first and second grade should be terminated.

"I am not an enthusiast about on-line teaching. We need human interface with students for good communication. That is how young minds can be inspired, Prof. Rao, who was Chairman of the Science Advisory Council to the Prime Minister from 1985-1989, and from 2004-2014, told PTI

The concept of online teaching-learning for school children - has not found favour with eminent scientist K Kasturirangan, who says direct physical and mental connection is important to bring out aspects such as playfulness and creativity in them.

The concept of online teaching-learning for school children - has not found favour with eminent scientist K Kasturirangan, who says direct physical and mental connection is important to bring out aspects such as playfulness and creativity in them. The National Education Policy, 2019, draft committee chairperson stressed the need for face-to-face contacts, interactions, exchange of ideas and thoughts as he backed the traditional mode, amid a debate on online classes for children due to COVID-19-induced closure of schools. Also read: Eminent scientist suggests shift-system in schools when they reopen "Fundamentally, the physical and mental connection with children directly is extremely important. Playfulness, creativity and many other aspects can never be transferred through online learning", Kasturirangan, who was Chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation between 1994 and 2003, told PTI. He said 86 per cent of the brain grows by the age of eight, adding that issues associated with the early phase of children need to be assessed and evaluated carefully and any kind of new approach needs a scientific basis. "Development of a brain is a continuous process within these eight years, and if you dont stimulate the brain properly by continuous interactions, then obviously you are missing a chance of really getting the best out of youngsters in terms of brain boat and performance, the recipient of Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan said. "There are issues of these which need to be analysed very carefully. Just the kind of solutions that we talk of for higher education like online and so on may not be the way to deal when it comes to dealing with the early phase of children, the former Rajya Sabha member said. The issue of online education for school children needs to be looked into very carefully and one should not jump into any kind of approach without any scientific basis. "There is much to be evaluated, and it has to be assessed", underlined Kasturirangan, who had also served as a Member of the now-defunct Planning Commission of India. Another acclaimed scientist, Prof. C N R Rao, who was awarded 'Bharat Ratna' in 2014, also spoke out recently against introducing online classes for children, underscoring the importance of human interface for good communication and inspiring young minds. The Honorary President of the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, and the Linus Pauling Research Professor said online classes for young children such as KG, first and second grade should be terminated. "I am not an enthusiast about on-line teaching. We need human interface with students for good communication. That is how young minds can be inspired, Prof. Rao, who was Chairman of the Science Advisory Council to the Prime Minister from 1985-1989, and from 2004-2014, told PTI

Creativity can't be transferred through online classes: Kasturirangan

Special US Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad discussed the steps required for the start of the intra-Afghan negotiations during his meeting with Pakistan Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa, the American embassy in Islamabad said on Monday.

Khalilzad visited Islamabad on Sunday and held talks with Bajwa on the Afghan peace process. He is travelling to Qatar, Pakistan and Afghanistan as part of efforts to bring peace in the war-torn country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/intra-afghan-talks-to-be-held-in-doha-304080">Also read:&nbsp;Intra-Afghan talks to be held in Doha</a>

During the three-nation tour, Khalilzad will review commitments in the recently signed US-Taliban Agreement and the US-Afghanistan Joint Declaration, specifically reducing violence and prisoner releases. The US has lost over 2,400 soldiers in Afghanistan since late 2001.

The US embassy said in a statement that in the meeting with General Bajwa, Ambassador Khalilzad discussed the steps required for the start of intra-Afghan negotiations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-warns-of-disaster-as-virus-infections-surge-303866">Also read:&nbsp;Afghanistan warns of 'disaster' as virus infections surge</a>

"The two took note of recent progress created by the Eid ceasefire and accelerated prisoner releases as well as reduced violence ahead of intra-Afghan negotiations,"&nbsp;it said.

Khalilzad "expressed his appreciation for the role Prime Minister Imran Khan and General Bajwa are playing in support of peace in Afghanistan," it said.

They agreed that peace in Afghanistan offers an unprecedented opportunity to advance security, connectivity and development for the region, it said.

Earlier, the Pakistan Army said on Sunday that "matters of mutual interest, overall regional security situation, including Afghan refugees issue/Afghan reconciliation process and Pak-Afghan border management were discussed"&nbsp;in the meeting. 
It said that the two sides shared steps taken towards this and agreed to continue working towards mutually agreed goals, it said.

Special US Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad discussed the steps required for the start of the intra-Afghan negotiations during his meeting with Pakistan Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa, the American embassy in Islamabad said on Monday.

Special US Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad discussed the steps required for the start of the intra-Afghan negotiations during his meeting with Pakistan Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa, the American embassy in Islamabad said on Monday. Khalilzad visited Islamabad on Sunday and held talks with Bajwa on the Afghan peace process. He is travelling to Qatar, Pakistan and Afghanistan as part of efforts to bring peace in the war-torn country. Also read: Intra-Afghan talks to be held in Doha During the three-nation tour, Khalilzad will review commitments in the recently signed US-Taliban Agreement and the US-Afghanistan Joint Declaration, specifically reducing violence and prisoner releases. The US has lost over 2,400 soldiers in Afghanistan since late 2001. The US embassy said in a statement that in the meeting with General Bajwa, Ambassador Khalilzad discussed the steps required for the start of intra-Afghan negotiations. Also read: Afghanistan warns of 'disaster' as virus infections surge "The two took note of recent progress created by the Eid ceasefire and accelerated prisoner releases as well as reduced violence ahead of intra-Afghan negotiations," it said. Khalilzad "expressed his appreciation for the role Prime Minister Imran Khan and General Bajwa are playing in support of peace in Afghanistan," it said. They agreed that peace in Afghanistan offers an unprecedented opportunity to advance security, connectivity and development for the region, it said. Earlier, the Pakistan Army said on Sunday that "matters of mutual interest, overall regional security situation, including Afghan refugees issue/Afghan reconciliation process and Pak-Afghan border management were discussed" in the meeting. It said that the two sides shared steps taken towards this and agreed to continue working towards mutually agreed goals, it said.

US spl envoy Khalilzad, Pak Army chief Bajwa discuss Afghan peace process

Instagram has announced that it would be rolling out the food order sticker in India in order to support small businesses.

The new sticker will help smaller businesses which are part of the food industry to stay in touch with their customers and allow them to support their favourite businesses, Mashable reported.

This feature was introduced in US and Canada in April this year and now it is all set to be introduced to Indian users.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-will-review-its-content-policies-says-zuckerberg-after-backlash-303746/amp">Also read:&nbsp;Facebook will review its content policies, says Zuckerberg after backlash</a>

As soon as a user will tap on the sticker, he/she will be redirected to Swiggy and Zomato where they can complete their order.

As per a report in Mashable, businesses can also feature stickers that direct people to a fundraiser built on Facebook.

The new food orders sticker is a part of Instagram's ongoing efforts to safeguard and support small businesses during COVID-19.

Earlier this month, Instagram had also launched the Support Small Business sticker to help businesses reach new customers.&nbsp;

Instagram has announced that it would be rolling out the food order sticker in India in order to support small businesses. The new sticker will help smaller businesses which are part of the food industry to stay in touch with their customers and allow them to support their favourite businesses, Mashable reported.

Instagram has announced that it would be rolling out the food order sticker in India in order to support small businesses. The new sticker will help smaller businesses which are part of the food industry to stay in touch with their customers and allow them to support their favourite businesses, Mashable reported. This feature was introduced in US and Canada in April this year and now it is all set to be introduced to Indian users. Also read: Facebook will review its content policies, says Zuckerberg after backlash As soon as a user will tap on the sticker, he/she will be redirected to Swiggy and Zomato where they can complete their order. As per a report in Mashable, businesses can also feature stickers that direct people to a fundraiser built on Facebook. The new food orders sticker is a part of Instagram's ongoing efforts to safeguard and support small businesses during COVID-19. Earlier this month, Instagram had also launched the Support Small Business sticker to help businesses reach new customers.

Instagram rolls out 'food order' sticker to support small businesses in India

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