Pereira to Headline UFC 300 But will He also Make it to UFC 301?

The schedule of UFC 300 is out. Current Light Heavyweight champion Alex Pereira (Brazil) will face former champion Jamal Hill (United States) in the main event on April 13. The co-main event is a Women's Strawweight Championship bound between current two-time champion Zhang Weili (China) and Yan Xiaonan (China). This fight card is stacked with many other exciting fights across weight classes.

'I'm in Good Shape, have been Training Hard'

In a video on his YouTube channel, Pereira said he is in good shape and has been training hard.  "I always spoke that I want to defend the belt hopefully in a very fast pace in a row, two times," Pereira, the former UFC Middleweight champion and former Glory Middleweight and Light Heavyweight Champion, said.

Pereira said that UFC 301 would be a possibility if he is not hurt in the previous card. The Brazilian highlighted that he has had back-to-back fights as a kickboxer. UFC 301 just happens 21 days after UFC 300 and if Pereira makes it, he enters the GOAT conversation.

Who will Pereira Face if He Fights in UFC 301?

If Pereira defends his title against Hill in UFC 300 and is unhurt, he might defend his title for a third time. Or the Brazilian might even drop down to Middleweight if current division champion Dricus Du Plessis (South Africa) defends his title at UFC 301. In a recent Instagram post, Pereira teased his re-entry into Middleweight by saying, "Maybe one last rodeo at middleweight?"

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<p>A Taekwondo instructor in Australia's Sydney has been charged with three counts of murder for killing a seven-year-old student and his parents. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Thursday (Feb 22), police said that 49-year-old Kwang Kyung Yoo strangled his student and the boy’s mother to death at his Lion’s Taekwondo and Martial Arts Academy in Sydney, the capital of New South Wales, on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Police said that Yoo allegedly drove his student's mother's car to the family home where he fatally stabbed her husband Steven Cho. Yoo then drove himself to a hospital where he told medical staff and police he had been attacked in a supermarket car park.&nbsp;The Taekwondo instructor was later discharged from the hospital after medical aid.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/man-jams-batteries-into-his-penis-for-sexual-gratification-leaves-doctors-baffled-691171">Man in Australia jams batteries into his penis for 'sexual gratification', leaves doctors baffled</a></strong></p>

<p>The report said that lawyers for Yoo appeared on his behalf in the Parramatta Local Court hearing but did not apply for the 49-year-old man to be released on bail or enter any plea to the charges.</p>

<h2><strong>Motive of crime not yet disclosed</strong></h2>

<p>The police have not yet disclosed the motive of the triple murders. It is also not known whether&nbsp;Yoo was injured in a struggle or if the wounds were self-inflicted. The man's only connections to family made public so far were that all four are from South Korea. The seven-year-old boy was a regular student at the academy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yoo&nbsp;must remain in custody either under police guard in the hospital or in prison until his case is due back in court on April 18. He is expected to appear on the next court date (April 18) via video link.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In New South Wales, the maximum penalty for a person convicted of murder in the state is life imprisonment, with a standard non-parole period of 20 years for the murder of an adult and 25 years for the murder of a child.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Taekwondo instructor in Australia's Sydney has been charged with three counts of murder for killing a seven-year-old student and his parents. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Thursday (Feb 22), police said that 49-year-old Kwang Kyung Yoo strangled his student and the boy’s mother to death at his Lion’s Taekwondo and Martial Arts Academy in Sydney, the capital of New South Wales, on Monday.

A Taekwondo instructor in Australia's Sydney has been charged with three counts of murder for killing a seven-year-old student and his parents. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Thursday (Feb 22), police said that 49-year-old Kwang Kyung Yoo strangled his student and the boy’s mother to death at his Lion’s Taekwondo and Martial Arts Academy in Sydney, the capital of New South Wales, on Monday. Police said that Yoo allegedly drove his student's mother's car to the family home where he fatally stabbed her husband Steven Cho. Yoo then drove himself to a hospital where he told medical staff and police he had been attacked in a supermarket car park. The Taekwondo instructor was later discharged from the hospital after medical aid. Also read | Man in Australia jams batteries into his penis for 'sexual gratification', leaves doctors baffled The report said that lawyers for Yoo appeared on his behalf in the Parramatta Local Court hearing but did not apply for the 49-year-old man to be released on bail or enter any plea to the charges. Motive of crime not yet disclosed The police have not yet disclosed the motive of the triple murders. It is also not known whether Yoo was injured in a struggle or if the wounds were self-inflicted. The man's only connections to family made public so far were that all four are from South Korea. The seven-year-old boy was a regular student at the academy. Yoo must remain in custody either under police guard in the hospital or in prison until his case is due back in court on April 18. He is expected to appear on the next court date (April 18) via video link. In New South Wales, the maximum penalty for a person convicted of murder in the state is life imprisonment, with a standard non-parole period of 20 years for the murder of an adult and 25 years for the murder of a child. (With inputs from agencies)

Taekwondo instructor in Australia's Sydney charged for killing student, his family

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidUp2dZhfF4BW4" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Britain's National Crime Agency (NCA) and Border Force said on Friday (Feb 23) that they seized 5.7 tonnes of cocaine from a port in southern England, which is believed to be the biggest-ever seizure of class A drugs in the United Kingdom (UK). In a statement, the NCA said the consignment of cocaine was found in a container at Southampton Port on February 8.</p>

<p>"Specialist Border Force officers were called in to carry out the search by the NCA, who identified the shipment through its Near Europe Task Force. The blocks of drugs were found hidden within a cargo of bananas which had been transported from South America," the statement said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/bag-of-cocaine-found-near-trinidad-shipwreck-sparks-investigation-691938">Bag of cocaine found near Trinidad shipwreck sparks investigation</a></strong></p>

<p>"NCA officers believe the haul was heading to the Port of Hamburg in Germany for onward delivery. Enquiries are ongoing with international partners across Europe with a view to identifying the criminal networks involved," it added.</p>

<h2><strong>What is the price of the seized drugs?</strong></h2>

<p>The NCA said on Friday that based on UK street-level prices the cocaine would likely have had an estimated value in excess of $570 million (£450 million). The agency's director Chris Farrimond said that this record-breaking seizure would represent a huge hit to the international organised crime cartels involved, denying them massive profits.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;British couple convicted for smuggling cocaine</strong></p>

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<p>"While the destination for the consignment was continental Europe in this case, I have no doubt that a significant proportion would have ended up back here in the UK, being peddled by UK criminal gangs," Farrimond said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, UK's Minister for Legal Migration and the Border Tom Pursglove said the seizure sent a clear message to criminals that they would be caught. "Our Border Force officers continue to work relentlessly to protect our borders and ensure the safety and security of the public,”&nbsp;Pursglove said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Previous record-breaking seizures?</strong></h2>

<p>The previous<strong>&nbsp;</strong>largest UK seizure was 3.7 tonnes of cocaine also found at Southampton in 2022. In 2015, 3.2 tonnes were found on board the tug boat MV Hamal in Scotland. The NCA said that the domestic cocaine market is dominated by criminal gangs that make around $5 billion a year in the UK alone.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Britain's National Crime Agency (NCA) and Border Force said on Friday (Feb 23) that they seized 5.7 tonnes of cocaine from a port in southern England, which is believed to be the biggest-ever seizure of class A drugs in the United Kingdom (UK).

Britain's National Crime Agency (NCA) and Border Force said on Friday (Feb 23) that they seized 5.7 tonnes of cocaine from a port in southern England, which is believed to be the biggest-ever seizure of class A drugs in the United Kingdom (UK). In a statement, the NCA said the consignment of cocaine was found in a container at Southampton Port on February 8. "Specialist Border Force officers were called in to carry out the search by the NCA, who identified the shipment through its Near Europe Task Force. The blocks of drugs were found hidden within a cargo of bananas which had been transported from South America," the statement said. Also read | Bag of cocaine found near Trinidad shipwreck sparks investigation "NCA officers believe the haul was heading to the Port of Hamburg in Germany for onward delivery. Enquiries are ongoing with international partners across Europe with a view to identifying the criminal networks involved," it added. What is the price of the seized drugs? The NCA said on Friday that based on UK street-level prices the cocaine would likely have had an estimated value in excess of $570 million (£450 million). The agency's director Chris Farrimond said that this record-breaking seizure would represent a huge hit to the international organised crime cartels involved, denying them massive profits. Also watch | British couple convicted for smuggling cocaine × "While the destination for the consignment was continental Europe in this case, I have no doubt that a significant proportion would have ended up back here in the UK, being peddled by UK criminal gangs," Farrimond said. Meanwhile, UK's Minister for Legal Migration and the Border Tom Pursglove said the seizure sent a clear message to criminals that they would be caught. "Our Border Force officers continue to work relentlessly to protect our borders and ensure the safety and security of the public,” Pursglove said. Previous record-breaking seizures? The previous largest UK seizure was 3.7 tonnes of cocaine also found at Southampton in 2022. In 2015, 3.2 tonnes were found on board the tug boat MV Hamal in Scotland. The NCA said that the domestic cocaine market is dominated by criminal gangs that make around $5 billion a year in the UK alone.

UK authorities make record-breaking 5.7 tonnes cocaine seizure; drugs were found hidden in cargo of bananas

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<p>More than 100 cars collided with each other on an icy stretch of an expressway in the Chinese city of Suzhou, injuring several people, reported&nbsp;news agency Reuters on Friday (Feb 23), citing state media. Footage shared on social media showed several cars piled up haphazardly on the highway.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a post on WeChat, Suzhou Industrial Park traffic police said that three people were injured and hospitalised, while six suffered minor scratches. The police said the reason behind the pile-up was being investigated, adding that road traffic had been restored.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>Here's a look at the video:</strong></h3>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BREAKING: 🚗⚠️ Some 100 hundred cars pile-up seen on the elevated loop line to eastern China’s Suzhou New District featuring hi-tech manufacturers due to icy roads as the cold snap warnings issued across the most part of the country <a href="https://t.co/ZZwLFuEhnt">pic.twitter.com/ZZwLFuEhnt</a></p>
— ShanghaiEye🚀official (@ShanghaiEye) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShanghaiEye/status/1760849798784258326?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Reuters reported that over the past few weeks, large parts of China have been hit by cold waves, blizzards, and icy rain. The weather conditions have impacted transportation at a time when people are rushing home for the Lunar New Year holiday celebrations.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-issues-highest-weather-alert-amid-cold-wave-highways-closed-in-beijing-after-heavy-snowfall-692351">China issues highest weather alert amid cold wave; highways closed in Beijing after heavy snowfall</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier this week, the government raised its emergency response to freezing temperatures and also started several plans for transportation flow, supplies and electricity in provinces and cities including Beijing, Hebei, and Shanxi, local media reported.</p>

<p>Eight highways had been shut in Beijing, and almost 200 road sections were closed across the country due to severe weather.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Orange alert renewed for some southern regions</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday, Chinese authorities renewed an orange weather alert for some southern regions. The National Meteorological Center (NMC) has forecast subzero temperatures for the days ahead around the country's central region, in the east, north and northwest as well as in parts of the south.</p>

<p>The NMC called on local governments to take precautions against the cold weather. It also advised people to keep warm and called for necessary measures to protect crops and aquatic products.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


More than 100 cars collided with each other on an icy stretch of an expressway in the Chinese city of Suzhou, injuring several people, reported news agency Reuters on Friday (Feb 23), citing state media.

More than 100 cars collided with each other on an icy stretch of an expressway in the Chinese city of Suzhou, injuring several people, reported news agency Reuters on Friday (Feb 23), citing state media. Footage shared on social media showed several cars piled up haphazardly on the highway. In a post on WeChat, Suzhou Industrial Park traffic police said that three people were injured and hospitalised, while six suffered minor scratches. The police said the reason behind the pile-up was being investigated, adding that road traffic had been restored. Here's a look at the video: BREAKING: 🚗⚠️ Some 100 hundred cars pile-up seen on the elevated loop line to eastern China’s Suzhou New District featuring hi-tech manufacturers due to icy roads as the cold snap warnings issued across the most part of the country pic.twitter.com/ZZwLFuEhnt — ShanghaiEye🚀official (@ShanghaiEye) February 23, 2024 × Reuters reported that over the past few weeks, large parts of China have been hit by cold waves, blizzards, and icy rain. The weather conditions have impacted transportation at a time when people are rushing home for the Lunar New Year holiday celebrations. Also read | China issues highest weather alert amid cold wave; highways closed in Beijing after heavy snowfall Earlier this week, the government raised its emergency response to freezing temperatures and also started several plans for transportation flow, supplies and electricity in provinces and cities including Beijing, Hebei, and Shanxi, local media reported. Eight highways had been shut in Beijing, and almost 200 road sections were closed across the country due to severe weather. Orange alert renewed for some southern regions On Wednesday, Chinese authorities renewed an orange weather alert for some southern regions. The National Meteorological Center (NMC) has forecast subzero temperatures for the days ahead around the country's central region, in the east, north and northwest as well as in parts of the south. The NMC called on local governments to take precautions against the cold weather. It also advised people to keep warm and called for necessary measures to protect crops and aquatic products. (With inputs from agencies)

More than 100 cars collide on icy expressway in China's Suzhou. Watch

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<p>The United Kingdom (UK) imposed a fresh set of sanctions on Russia to mark the second anniversary of Moscow's war in Ukraine. In a post on X, the foreign office announced that more than 50 people sustaining Russian President Vladimir Putin's illegal war in Ukraine have been sanctioned. "Sanctions have deprived Russia’s war machine of an estimated $400 billion. Two years on from Russia’s full-scale invasion, we continue to stand with Ukraine," the post added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Foreign Secretary David Cameron said that sanctions are starving Putin of the resources he desperately needs to fund his struggling war. "Two years on from Russia’s full-scale invasion, we continue to support Ukraine as it fights for democracy – for as long as it takes," Cameron said in a post on the social media platform.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-sanctions-six-russian-officials-at-siberian-prison-where-navalny-died-692407">UK sanctions six Russian officials at Siberian prison where Putin critic Alexei Navalny died</a></strong></p>

<p>The sanctions would crack down on those "supplying his depleted armoury with munitions such as rocket launch systems, missiles and explosives," <strong><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-uk-sanctions-mark-two-years-since-russias-illegal-invasion-of-ukraine">the foreign office said in a statement</a></strong>. "These new sanctions also target key sources of Russian revenue, clamping down on metals, diamonds, and energy trade, and cutting off funding for Putin’s illegal war from every angle," the statement added.</p>

<h2><strong>Who have&nbsp;been sanctioned?</strong></h2>

<p>Among those sanctioned include companies linked to manufacturing munitions such as rocket launch systems, missiles, explosives and other critical goods used in military equipment; key Russian importers and manufacturers of machine tools; oil trader Niels Troost and his company Paramount Energy &amp; Commodities SA; Fractal Marine DMCC, Beks Ship Management, and Active Shipping; Russian diamond companies and five senior executives or owners of Russia’s top producers of copper, zinc and steel.</p>

<p>Since the war started in Ukraine on Feb 24, 2022, the UK has sanctioned thousands of individuals, companies and groups under its Russia sanctions regime. The foreign office said that Thursday's set of sanctions would disrupt Putin's ability to equip his now struggling military with high-tech equipment and much-needed weaponry, as well as blocking him from refilling his war coffers- while Ukraine defends itself.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Inside Putin's Russia</strong></p>

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<p>"This round of designations serves as a clear signal that two years on, the UK stands united with our allies in unwavering support for Ukraine," the office added.</p>

<h2><strong>London sanctions heads of Arctic penal colony&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Thursday's sanctions come days after London sanctioned heads of the Artic penal colony in Russia where Putin critic Alexei Navalny died. The sanctioned individuals included the head and five deputy heads of the penal colony, who will be banned from the UK and have their assets frozen, Foreign Secretary Cameron said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's clear that the Russian authorities saw Navalny as a threat and they tried repeatedly to silence him... no one should doubt the oppressive nature of the Russian system," he added.</p>

<p>Dismissing the sanctions, the Russian embassy in the UK said they were dishonest and London was interfering in internal Russian affairs and passing judgment before the investigation of Navalny's death was complete.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The United Kingdom (UK) imposed a fresh set of sanctions on Russia to mark the second anniversary of Moscow's war in Ukraine. In a post on X, the foreign office announced that more than 50 people sustaining Russian President Vladimir Putin's illegal war in Ukraine have been sanctioned.

The United Kingdom (UK) imposed a fresh set of sanctions on Russia to mark the second anniversary of Moscow's war in Ukraine. In a post on X, the foreign office announced that more than 50 people sustaining Russian President Vladimir Putin's illegal war in Ukraine have been sanctioned. "Sanctions have deprived Russia’s war machine of an estimated $400 billion. Two years on from Russia’s full-scale invasion, we continue to stand with Ukraine," the post added. Foreign Secretary David Cameron said that sanctions are starving Putin of the resources he desperately needs to fund his struggling war. "Two years on from Russia’s full-scale invasion, we continue to support Ukraine as it fights for democracy – for as long as it takes," Cameron said in a post on the social media platform. Also read | UK sanctions six Russian officials at Siberian prison where Putin critic Alexei Navalny died The sanctions would crack down on those "supplying his depleted armoury with munitions such as rocket launch systems, missiles and explosives," the foreign office said in a statement. "These new sanctions also target key sources of Russian revenue, clamping down on metals, diamonds, and energy trade, and cutting off funding for Putin’s illegal war from every angle," the statement added. Who have been sanctioned? Among those sanctioned include companies linked to manufacturing munitions such as rocket launch systems, missiles, explosives and other critical goods used in military equipment; key Russian importers and manufacturers of machine tools; oil trader Niels Troost and his company Paramount Energy & Commodities SA; Fractal Marine DMCC, Beks Ship Management, and Active Shipping; Russian diamond companies and five senior executives or owners of Russia’s top producers of copper, zinc and steel. Since the war started in Ukraine on Feb 24, 2022, the UK has sanctioned thousands of individuals, companies and groups under its Russia sanctions regime. The foreign office said that Thursday's set of sanctions would disrupt Putin's ability to equip his now struggling military with high-tech equipment and much-needed weaponry, as well as blocking him from refilling his war coffers- while Ukraine defends itself. Also watch | Inside Putin's Russia × "This round of designations serves as a clear signal that two years on, the UK stands united with our allies in unwavering support for Ukraine," the office added. London sanctions heads of Arctic penal colony Thursday's sanctions come days after London sanctioned heads of the Artic penal colony in Russia where Putin critic Alexei Navalny died. The sanctioned individuals included the head and five deputy heads of the penal colony, who will be banned from the UK and have their assets frozen, Foreign Secretary Cameron said. "It's clear that the Russian authorities saw Navalny as a threat and they tried repeatedly to silence him... no one should doubt the oppressive nature of the Russian system," he added. Dismissing the sanctions, the Russian embassy in the UK said they were dishonest and London was interfering in internal Russian affairs and passing judgment before the investigation of Navalny's death was complete.

Ukraine war: UK announces new sanctions against Russia as war enters third year

<p>A group of Ukrainian children who have survived the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine will be addressing the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in New York on Friday (Feb 23), a report by The Guardian said. As per the report, the group includes Kira, aged 14, and Ilya, aged 11- both residents of Mariupol. Following their address at the top UN body headquarters, the children will also pay a visit to Washington.</p>

<p>Narrating her experience about surviving the conflict, Kira told The Guardian that she was waiting for her school bus when she heard explosions. Kira spent about a month sheltering, hiding in houses, and basements after Russian forces started pounding Mariupol. The 14-year-old's father was killed in the conflict, and the family had to leave his body behind as they fled.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-must-end-forcible-transfer-of-children-from-ukraine-says-un-panel-688346">Russia must end forcible transfer of children from Ukraine, says UN panel</a></strong></p>

<p>Just like Kira, 11-year-old Ilya, and his mother shuttled from place to place across Mariupol in an increasingly desperate search for shelter. The report said that the mother and son first remained at home, then moved to a hotel bunker before trying to return home.</p>

<p>Ilya told the Guardian that his home was destroyed. “I’d lived in that home many years. I loved this house, and this horrible thing had happened. It was really scary,” he said.</p>

<p>The boy was captured by Russian soldiers. The 11-year-old said that one of the soldiers tried to give him a poisoned chocolate, and he ended up in a hospital. The boy was rescued by his grandmother.</p>

<p>Children have been the biggest victims of the Russia-Ukraine war which started on Feb 24, 2022. The conflict will mark its second anniversary on Saturday. According to UNICEF, at least 545 children have been killed, and at least 1,156 children have been injured.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;War crimes of Russia-Ukraine war: Who's responsible? | Dark World</strong></p>

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<p>Earlier this month, a UN committee said that Russia must end the forcible transfer of children from Ukraine and provide information about those already taken. The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child pressed Moscow on deportation allegations levelled by Ukraine during a regular review of its record in Jan.</p>

<p>The committee demanded that Moscow provide information about the precise number of children taken from Ukraine and about the whereabouts of each child.</p>


A group of Ukrainian children who have survived the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine will be addressing the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in New York on Friday (Feb 23), a report by The Guardian said.

A group of Ukrainian children who have survived the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine will be addressing the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in New York on Friday (Feb 23), a report by The Guardian said. As per the report, the group includes Kira, aged 14, and Ilya, aged 11- both residents of Mariupol. Following their address at the top UN body headquarters, the children will also pay a visit to Washington. Narrating her experience about surviving the conflict, Kira told The Guardian that she was waiting for her school bus when she heard explosions. Kira spent about a month sheltering, hiding in houses, and basements after Russian forces started pounding Mariupol. The 14-year-old's father was killed in the conflict, and the family had to leave his body behind as they fled. Also read | Russia must end forcible transfer of children from Ukraine, says UN panel Just like Kira, 11-year-old Ilya, and his mother shuttled from place to place across Mariupol in an increasingly desperate search for shelter. The report said that the mother and son first remained at home, then moved to a hotel bunker before trying to return home. Ilya told the Guardian that his home was destroyed. “I’d lived in that home many years. I loved this house, and this horrible thing had happened. It was really scary,” he said. The boy was captured by Russian soldiers. The 11-year-old said that one of the soldiers tried to give him a poisoned chocolate, and he ended up in a hospital. The boy was rescued by his grandmother. Children have been the biggest victims of the Russia-Ukraine war which started on Feb 24, 2022. The conflict will mark its second anniversary on Saturday. According to UNICEF, at least 545 children have been killed, and at least 1,156 children have been injured. Also watch | War crimes of Russia-Ukraine war: Who's responsible? | Dark World × Earlier this month, a UN committee said that Russia must end the forcible transfer of children from Ukraine and provide information about those already taken. The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child pressed Moscow on deportation allegations levelled by Ukraine during a regular review of its record in Jan. The committee demanded that Moscow provide information about the precise number of children taken from Ukraine and about the whereabouts of each child.

Russia-Ukraine war: Ukrainian kids who lost loved ones to conflict to address UNSC, says report

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<p>Iran on Thursday (Feb 22) started its first election campaign since the 2022 custodial death of Mahsa Amini. Twenty-two-year-old Amini died on Sept 16, 2022, after she was arrested by the morality police for violating Iran's headscarf law. Her custodial death sparked nationwide protests to overthrow the country's clerical rulers. As a response, the authorities launched a bloody crackdown that killed over 500 people.</p>

<p>On Thursday, candidates for Iran's parliament started campaigning for the March 1 parliamentary election, the news agency Associated Press reported. Citing state media, the report said that 15,200 candidates will compete for a four-year term in parliament.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-mahsa-aminis-uncle-faces-five-years-of-imprisonment-over-protests-say-rights-groups-690214">Mahsa Amini’s uncle faces five years of imprisonment over protests, say rights groups</a></strong></p>

<p>This is a record number and more than twice the candidates who contested in the 2020 elections when the voter turnout was just over 42 per cent, the lowest since 1979.</p>

<h2><strong>Raisi seeks re-election to assembly</strong></h2>

<p>Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will seek re-election to the assembly in a remote constituency in South Khorasan province where he will compete against a low-profile cleric. Meanwhile, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf will contest from a constituency in the remote northeast region.</p>

<p>A report by the news agency AFP said that large billboards and election posters were seen in Tehran, urging people to take part in the election process. However, the first day of campaigning did not see a large number of banners erected in favour of individual candidates or their coalitions.</p>

<p>Speaking to AFP, a journalist said, "Most of the candidates, particularly in small constituencies, are doctors, engineers, civil servants, and teachers who are not affiliated with any political group."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Iran begins first election campaign since 2022 mass protests</strong></p>

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<p>he further said&nbsp;that by allowing such a large pool of candidates to run, the government wants to create local competition and increase participation of voters.</p>

<p>The current parliament has been dominated by conservatives and ultra-conservatives after many reformists and moderates were disqualified. According to reformist politicians, only between 20-30 of the reformist candidates who submitted applications have been approved to run in the upcoming poll.</p>

<h2><strong>People 'indifferent' to elections</strong></h2>

<p>President Ibrahim Raisi and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have urged people to take part in the election process. A recent poll carried out by Iran's state television revealed that more than half of the respondents were indifferent to the elections.</p>

<p>AFP reported that opposition figures&nbsp;have called for a total boycott of the polls. On Monday, former president Mohammad Khatami said Iran was very far from free and competitive polls, and highlighted the growing popular discontent among Iranians.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iran on Thursday (Feb 22) started its first election campaign since the 2022 custodial death of Mahsa Amini. Twenty-two-year-old Amini died on Sept 16, 2022, after she was arrested by the morality police for violating Iran's headscarf law.

Iran on Thursday (Feb 22) started its first election campaign since the 2022 custodial death of Mahsa Amini. Twenty-two-year-old Amini died on Sept 16, 2022, after she was arrested by the morality police for violating Iran's headscarf law. Her custodial death sparked nationwide protests to overthrow the country's clerical rulers. As a response, the authorities launched a bloody crackdown that killed over 500 people. On Thursday, candidates for Iran's parliament started campaigning for the March 1 parliamentary election, the news agency Associated Press reported. Citing state media, the report said that 15,200 candidates will compete for a four-year term in parliament. Also read | Mahsa Amini’s uncle faces five years of imprisonment over protests, say rights groups This is a record number and more than twice the candidates who contested in the 2020 elections when the voter turnout was just over 42 per cent, the lowest since 1979. Raisi seeks re-election to assembly Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will seek re-election to the assembly in a remote constituency in South Khorasan province where he will compete against a low-profile cleric. Meanwhile, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf will contest from a constituency in the remote northeast region. A report by the news agency AFP said that large billboards and election posters were seen in Tehran, urging people to take part in the election process. However, the first day of campaigning did not see a large number of banners erected in favour of individual candidates or their coalitions. Speaking to AFP, a journalist said, "Most of the candidates, particularly in small constituencies, are doctors, engineers, civil servants, and teachers who are not affiliated with any political group." Also watch | Iran begins first election campaign since 2022 mass protests × he further said that by allowing such a large pool of candidates to run, the government wants to create local competition and increase participation of voters. The current parliament has been dominated by conservatives and ultra-conservatives after many reformists and moderates were disqualified. According to reformist politicians, only between 20-30 of the reformist candidates who submitted applications have been approved to run in the upcoming poll. People 'indifferent' to elections President Ibrahim Raisi and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have urged people to take part in the election process. A recent poll carried out by Iran's state television revealed that more than half of the respondents were indifferent to the elections. AFP reported that opposition figures have called for a total boycott of the polls. On Monday, former president Mohammad Khatami said Iran was very far from free and competitive polls, and highlighted the growing popular discontent among Iranians. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran begins first election campaign since custodial death of Mahsa Amini

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<p>The Taliban administration in Afghanistan executed two men convicted of murder in a football stadium in the eastern region of the country, the news agency AFP reported on Thursday (Feb 22). A Supreme Court official read aloud a death warrant signed by Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada which said that both men were executed by multiple gunshots to the back in Ghazni city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"These two people were convicted of the crime of murder. After two years of trial in the courts of the country, the order has been signed," the official said. AFP reported that thousands of people gathered at the stadium to witness the executions.</p>

<h2><strong>Who were the convicted men?</strong></h2>

<p>The convicted men were identified as Said Jamal and Gul Khan. The Supreme Court said that Jamal and Khan were guilty of knife murders in Sept 2017 and Jan 2022 respectively. In a statement, the top court said that Supreme Leader Akhundzada conducted an extraordinary investigation into their cases.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-kandahar-officials-ordered-not-to-photograph-living-things-691518">Kandahar officials ordered by Taliban not to photograph 'living things'</a></strong></p>

<p>The families of Jamal and Khan were present and were asked if they wanted to grant the condemned a last-minute reprieve, but they declined in both cases. The families were also offered to carry out the execution themselves, in line with the Taliban's implementation of Islamic law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, they refused and security forces carried out the executions. These are believed to be the third and fourth death penalties meted out since the Taliban authorities returned to power in 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first two people executed had also been convicted of murder. Since coming back to power, the Taliban administration has installed its strict interpretation of Islamic law which includes capital and corporal punishments little used by most modern Muslim states.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;A look at repression of rights after 2021 Taliban takeover</strong></p>

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<p>In 2022, Akhundzada ordered judges in 2022 to fully implement all aspects of Islamic law -- including "eye for an eye" punishments known as "qisas".</p>

<p>Apart from executions, there have also been regular public floggings for other crimes in Afghanistan including consumption of alcohol, theft and adultery.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Taliban administration in Afghanistan executed two men convicted of murder in a football stadium in the eastern region of the country, the news agency AFP reported on Thursday (Feb 22).

The Taliban administration in Afghanistan executed two men convicted of murder in a football stadium in the eastern region of the country, the news agency AFP reported on Thursday (Feb 22). A Supreme Court official read aloud a death warrant signed by Taliban Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada which said that both men were executed by multiple gunshots to the back in Ghazni city. "These two people were convicted of the crime of murder. After two years of trial in the courts of the country, the order has been signed," the official said. AFP reported that thousands of people gathered at the stadium to witness the executions. Who were the convicted men? The convicted men were identified as Said Jamal and Gul Khan. The Supreme Court said that Jamal and Khan were guilty of knife murders in Sept 2017 and Jan 2022 respectively. In a statement, the top court said that Supreme Leader Akhundzada conducted an extraordinary investigation into their cases. Also read | Kandahar officials ordered by Taliban not to photograph 'living things' The families of Jamal and Khan were present and were asked if they wanted to grant the condemned a last-minute reprieve, but they declined in both cases. The families were also offered to carry out the execution themselves, in line with the Taliban's implementation of Islamic law. However, they refused and security forces carried out the executions. These are believed to be the third and fourth death penalties meted out since the Taliban authorities returned to power in 2021. The first two people executed had also been convicted of murder. Since coming back to power, the Taliban administration has installed its strict interpretation of Islamic law which includes capital and corporal punishments little used by most modern Muslim states. Also watch | A look at repression of rights after 2021 Taliban takeover × In 2022, Akhundzada ordered judges in 2022 to fully implement all aspects of Islamic law -- including "eye for an eye" punishments known as "qisas". Apart from executions, there have also been regular public floggings for other crimes in Afghanistan including consumption of alcohol, theft and adultery. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban execute 2 convicted murderers in football stadium in eastern Afghanistan

<p>Thousands of AT&amp;T, T-Mobile and Verizon&nbsp;mobile phone users in the United States reported network problems, data from Downdetector showed on Thursday (Feb 22) . By 4.30 pm, there were nearly&nbsp;32,000 AT&amp;T outages reported in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Verizon also reported over 1,900 outages by 5 pm. Representatives for both the companies have not commented on the network outage yet. A little over 1,300 users of T-Mobile also reported network problems, and more than 11,000 outages were reported for Cricket Wireless, which is owned by AT&amp;T.&nbsp;</p>

<p>AT&amp;T is the world's fourth largest telecommunications company by revenue and the largest wireless carrier in the US. According to Statista, AT&amp;T provide&nbsp;almost 46 per cent of all wireless subscriptions delivered by major operators in the country as of the first quarter of 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Verizon is the second-largest network in the country, and accounted for 30 per cent&nbsp;of all wireless subscriptions delivered by major operators in the US, Statista said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Outage impact people's ability to reach emergency services'</strong></h2>

<p>In a post on social media platform X, the&nbsp;San Francisco Fire Department said that the AT&amp;T outage was impacting people's ability to reach emergency services by dialing 911. "We are aware of an issue impacting AT&amp;T wireless customers from making and receiving any phone calls (including to 911)," the fire department said.</p>

<h2><strong>Network outages spark meme fest on X</strong></h2>

<p>Thursday network outages sparked a meme fest on X.&nbsp;"Sooo is the world ending tonight or we just gonna accept that AT&amp;T Is utterly failing all of us I need to know," X user <em>Robbie Khader&nbsp;</em>said in a post on X.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">That moment insomnia hits and so does an AT&amp;T outage 😒 <a href="https://t.co/1v5LLsTnwg">pic.twitter.com/1v5LLsTnwg</a></p>
— Nubian Puma ♍ (@Sophistic8dFly1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sophistic8dFly1/status/1760603915337502923?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"That moment insomnia hits and so does an AT&amp;T outage," wrote another user.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This outage was sus for an hour but coming to Twitter to see it was nationwide and not just ATT but also Verizon and T-Mobile. It’s giving Russian Cyber Attack energy. But let me just go back to bed. <a href="https://t.co/LsiTnN4jyE">pic.twitter.com/LsiTnN4jyE</a></p>
— Kade Boehme (@kaderadenurface) <a href="https://twitter.com/kaderadenurface/status/1760628547180507262?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"This outage was sus for an hour but coming to Twitter to see it was nationwide and not just ATT but also Verizon and T-Mobile. It’s giving Russian Cyber Attack energy. But let me just go back to bed," wrote a third on the social networking site.&nbsp;</p>


Thousands of AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon mobile phone users in the United States reported network problems, data from Downdetector showed on Thursday (Feb 22) . By 4.

Thousands of AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon mobile phone users in the United States reported network problems, data from Downdetector showed on Thursday (Feb 22) . By 4.30 pm, there were nearly 32,000 AT&T outages reported in the country. Verizon also reported over 1,900 outages by 5 pm. Representatives for both the companies have not commented on the network outage yet. A little over 1,300 users of T-Mobile also reported network problems, and more than 11,000 outages were reported for Cricket Wireless, which is owned by AT&T. AT&T is the world's fourth largest telecommunications company by revenue and the largest wireless carrier in the US. According to Statista, AT&T provide almost 46 per cent of all wireless subscriptions delivered by major operators in the country as of the first quarter of 2023. Verizon is the second-largest network in the country, and accounted for 30 per cent of all wireless subscriptions delivered by major operators in the US, Statista said. 'Outage impact people's ability to reach emergency services' In a post on social media platform X, the San Francisco Fire Department said that the AT&T outage was impacting people's ability to reach emergency services by dialing 911. "We are aware of an issue impacting AT&T wireless customers from making and receiving any phone calls (including to 911)," the fire department said. Network outages spark meme fest on X Thursday network outages sparked a meme fest on X. "Sooo is the world ending tonight or we just gonna accept that AT&T Is utterly failing all of us I need to know," X user Robbie Khader said in a post on X. That moment insomnia hits and so does an AT&T outage 😒 pic.twitter.com/1v5LLsTnwg — Nubian Puma ♍ (@Sophistic8dFly1) February 22, 2024 × "That moment insomnia hits and so does an AT&T outage," wrote another user. This outage was sus for an hour but coming to Twitter to see it was nationwide and not just ATT but also Verizon and T-Mobile. It’s giving Russian Cyber Attack energy. But let me just go back to bed. pic.twitter.com/LsiTnN4jyE — Kade Boehme (@kaderadenurface) February 22, 2024 × "This outage was sus for an hour but coming to Twitter to see it was nationwide and not just ATT but also Verizon and T-Mobile. It’s giving Russian Cyber Attack energy. But let me just go back to bed," wrote a third on the social networking site.

Thousands of AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon mobile users in US report network outages

<p>American startup Varda Space Industries' space capsule landed on Earth on Wednesday (Feb 21) afternoon, carrying crystals of an antiviral drug that were grown in orbit. In a statement, Varda said that its W-1 (Winnebago-1) mission re-entry capsule touched down in the Utah Desert at the Utah Test and Training Range. "From here, our capsule will be transported back to our facilities in Los Angeles for post-mission analysis," the statement said.</p>

<p>"From here, our capsule will be transported back to our facilities in Los Angeles for post-mission analysis. The Ritonavir vials onboard the spacecraft will be shipped to our collaborators Improved Pharma post-flight characterisation," the statement added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-where-is-point-nemo-on-earth-the-graveyard-for-satellites-and-spaceships-692298">Explained: Point Nemo on Earth, the graveyard for satellites and spaceships</a></strong></p>

<p>Varda said that&nbsp;data collected throughout the entirety of the capsule's flight will be shared with the US Air Force and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) under a contract that the space startup has with the agencies.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Update #6 on Varda's W-1 Mission: <a href="https://t.co/BNBqjbRxvX">pic.twitter.com/BNBqjbRxvX</a></p>
— Varda Space Industries (@VardaSpace) <a href="https://twitter.com/VardaSpace/status/1760419976790659327?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Winnebago-1 was launched in June last year as a payload of SpaceX Transporter-8 mission. According to a report by Space.com, the W-1 capsule contained materials necessary to grow crystals of Ritonavir- a drug used for treating HIV and hepatitis C.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A week after Transporter-8's liftoff, the startup said its crystal-growing experiment had worked.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-launches-debris-removal-spacecraft-to-tackle-space-junk-691835">Japan launches debris removal spacecraft to tackle space junk</a></strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a post on X on June 30 last year, Varda said, "Over the last day, for the first time ever, orbital drug processing happened outside of a government-run space station. Our crystallization of Ritonavir appears to have been nominal. This is our first step in commercializing microgravity and building an industrial park in LEO."</p>

<p>Varda was supposed to bring Ritonavir crystals after just a month or two in orbit. However, it faced problems getting the required reentry approval from the US Federal Aviation Administration and the military.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


American startup Varda Space Industries' space capsule landed on Earth on Wednesday (Feb 21) afternoon, carrying crystals of an antiviral drug that were grown in orbit.

American startup Varda Space Industries' space capsule landed on Earth on Wednesday (Feb 21) afternoon, carrying crystals of an antiviral drug that were grown in orbit. In a statement, Varda said that its W-1 (Winnebago-1) mission re-entry capsule touched down in the Utah Desert at the Utah Test and Training Range. "From here, our capsule will be transported back to our facilities in Los Angeles for post-mission analysis," the statement said. "From here, our capsule will be transported back to our facilities in Los Angeles for post-mission analysis. The Ritonavir vials onboard the spacecraft will be shipped to our collaborators Improved Pharma post-flight characterisation," the statement added. Also read | Explained: Point Nemo on Earth, the graveyard for satellites and spaceships Varda said that data collected throughout the entirety of the capsule's flight will be shared with the US Air Force and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) under a contract that the space startup has with the agencies. Update #6 on Varda's W-1 Mission: pic.twitter.com/BNBqjbRxvX — Varda Space Industries (@VardaSpace) February 21, 2024 × Winnebago-1 was launched in June last year as a payload of SpaceX Transporter-8 mission. According to a report by Space.com, the W-1 capsule contained materials necessary to grow crystals of Ritonavir- a drug used for treating HIV and hepatitis C. A week after Transporter-8's liftoff, the startup said its crystal-growing experiment had worked. Also watch | Japan launches debris removal spacecraft to tackle space junk × In a post on X on June 30 last year, Varda said, "Over the last day, for the first time ever, orbital drug processing happened outside of a government-run space station. Our crystallization of Ritonavir appears to have been nominal. This is our first step in commercializing microgravity and building an industrial park in LEO." Varda was supposed to bring Ritonavir crystals after just a month or two in orbit. However, it faced problems getting the required reentry approval from the US Federal Aviation Administration and the military. (With inputs from agencies)

US startup's space capsule lands on Earth carrying space-grown antiviral drug

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday (Feb 22) that his government was leaving no stone unturned to ensure the welfare of the country's farmers. Prime Minister Modi attended the golden jubilee celebrations celebrations of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) in Ahmedabad. The GCMFF is the producer of Amul's brand of products.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing the event, Modi said "We are leaving no stone unturned to ensure farmer welfare. The government has built 60,000+ Amrit Sarovars across the country. This very initiative will not only benefit farmers but will also strengthen the rural economy. Our goal is to provide modern technology and its know-how even to the small farmers of the country."</p>

<p>He added that for the first time, the government has provided Kisan Credit Card facility to cattle farmers and fish farmers. "Our focus is to improve the life of small farmers, to increase the scope of animal husbandry, to improve the health of animals, to encourage animal husbandry as well as pisciculture and beekeeping in the village," the prime minister further said.</p>

<p>Modi's comments on farmers were his first since the farmers' protests began last week against the central government. Farmers have been attempting to march to New Delhi as part of their 'Delhi Chalo' (Let's Go to Delhi) campaign demanding legally binding higher prices for their crops, among other things.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, the farmers' unions said they were pausing their campaign for two days following the death of a protester.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Today India is the largest milk producing nation globally'</strong></h2>

<p>During the event in Ahmedabad, PM Modi also said on Thursday that&nbsp;India is the largest milk-producing country in the world, and 80 million people are associated with the nation's dairy sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the last 10 years alone, milk production in India has increased by about 60 per cent. Per capita milk availability has also increased by 40 per cent in the last decade," Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/historic-increase-in-price-pm-modi-lauds-cabinets-hike-in-sugarcane-frp-692599">'Historic increase in price': PM Modi lauds cabinet's hike in sugarcane FRP</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Ahmedabad, Gujarat | At the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, PM Narendra Modi says, "Amul is also an example of how the destiny of future generations is changed with the decisions taken with farsightedness...Today, this is… <a href="https://t.co/B2wAJZMu0O">pic.twitter.com/B2wAJZMu0O</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1760548662449488101?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Modi began his two-day visit to Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh on Thursday. Apart from attending the golden jubilee celebrations celebrations of the GCMMF, he will unveil development projects in Gujarat worth over $2.75 billion (Rs 22,850 crore).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The projects will encompass important sectors like road, rail, energy, health, internet connectivity, urban development, water supply, tourism etc., in districts like Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, Banaskantha, Anand, Mahesana, Kachchh, Kheda, Bharuch, Tapi, Vadodara, Surat, Navsari, Panchmahal, Valsad, and Narmada.</p>

<p>On Friday, the prime minister will reach Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi to take part in a prize distribution programme at the Banaras Hindu University (BHU). He would lay the foundation stone of developmental projects worth over $1.56 billion (Rs 13,000 crore) in the city.&nbsp;</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday (Feb 22) that his government was leaving no stone unturned to ensure the welfare of the country's farmers. Prime Minister Modi attended the golden jubilee celebrations celebrations of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) in Ahmedabad.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday (Feb 22) that his government was leaving no stone unturned to ensure the welfare of the country's farmers. Prime Minister Modi attended the golden jubilee celebrations celebrations of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) in Ahmedabad. The GCMFF is the producer of Amul's brand of products. Addressing the event, Modi said "We are leaving no stone unturned to ensure farmer welfare. The government has built 60,000+ Amrit Sarovars across the country. This very initiative will not only benefit farmers but will also strengthen the rural economy. Our goal is to provide modern technology and its know-how even to the small farmers of the country." He added that for the first time, the government has provided Kisan Credit Card facility to cattle farmers and fish farmers. "Our focus is to improve the life of small farmers, to increase the scope of animal husbandry, to improve the health of animals, to encourage animal husbandry as well as pisciculture and beekeeping in the village," the prime minister further said. Modi's comments on farmers were his first since the farmers' protests began last week against the central government. Farmers have been attempting to march to New Delhi as part of their 'Delhi Chalo' (Let's Go to Delhi) campaign demanding legally binding higher prices for their crops, among other things. On Wednesday, the farmers' unions said they were pausing their campaign for two days following the death of a protester. 'Today India is the largest milk producing nation globally' During the event in Ahmedabad, PM Modi also said on Thursday that India is the largest milk-producing country in the world, and 80 million people are associated with the nation's dairy sector. "In the last 10 years alone, milk production in India has increased by about 60 per cent. Per capita milk availability has also increased by 40 per cent in the last decade," Modi said. Also read | 'Historic increase in price': PM Modi lauds cabinet's hike in sugarcane FRP #WATCH | Ahmedabad, Gujarat | At the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, PM Narendra Modi says, "Amul is also an example of how the destiny of future generations is changed with the decisions taken with farsightedness...Today, this is… pic.twitter.com/B2wAJZMu0O — ANI (@ANI) February 22, 2024 × Modi began his two-day visit to Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh on Thursday. Apart from attending the golden jubilee celebrations celebrations of the GCMMF, he will unveil development projects in Gujarat worth over $2.75 billion (Rs 22,850 crore). The projects will encompass important sectors like road, rail, energy, health, internet connectivity, urban development, water supply, tourism etc., in districts like Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, Banaskantha, Anand, Mahesana, Kachchh, Kheda, Bharuch, Tapi, Vadodara, Surat, Navsari, Panchmahal, Valsad, and Narmada. On Friday, the prime minister will reach Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi to take part in a prize distribution programme at the Banaras Hindu University (BHU). He would lay the foundation stone of developmental projects worth over $1.56 billion (Rs 13,000 crore) in the city.

Govt leaving no stone unturned to ensure farmers' welfare: Indian PM Modi

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<p>Indian education board - the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) - is considering the format of open book examination for students of classes 9-12, The Indian Express reported on Thursday (Feb 22), citing sources. According to the report, the sources said that the CBSE has proposed a pilot run of open-book examinations in a few schools.</p>

<p>For classes 9 and 10, students will take such an exam in the subjects of English, Mathematics and Science. For classes 11 and 12, the subjects chosen for the examination are English, Mathematics and Biology, the report said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/baseless-and-incorrect-cbse-clarifies-after-chapter-on-dating-and-relationship-goes-viral-686376">'Baseless and incorrect': CBSE clarifies after chapter on ‘Dating and Relationship’ goes viral</a></strong></p>

<p>This pilot run has been proposed to be conducted in Nov-Dec this year. The CBSE would evaluate the time taken by students to complete such exams and also the stakeholders' response. The Indian Express report further said that the pilot run would focus on assessing elements such as higher-order thinking skills, application and analysis.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is open open-book examination?</strong></h2>

<p>An open-book examination allows students to refer to textbooks, class notes and other study material when they appear for an exam. Now it seems that an open book exam is easier than a closed book one as students can directly look at their study material and answer the questions.</p>

<p>However, it is not. According to Cornell University, an open-book exam can often be harder than a closed-book one. An open-book exam would require students to use higher levels of thinking.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Police detain man in India's Punjab for impersonating a girl during exam</strong></p>

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<p>"...you won’t just be asked about facts or to recall. Instead, you will be asked to compare, analyse, evaluate, or synthesize information. These ways of demonstrating your knowledge are more challenging than just spitting back facts and require that you deeply know the material and are able to see connections," Cornell University states.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In India, the CBSE's proposal for open book examination comes nearly four years after the Delhi University (DU) introduced this format in Aug 2020 during the Covid pandemic. The DU's move was opposed by students.</p>

<p>And now, the CBSE would be consulting the DU for this exam format.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian education board - the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) - is considering the format of open book examination for students of classes 9-12, The Indian Express reported on Thursday (Feb 22), citing sources.

Indian education board - the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) - is considering the format of open book examination for students of classes 9-12, The Indian Express reported on Thursday (Feb 22), citing sources. According to the report, the sources said that the CBSE has proposed a pilot run of open-book examinations in a few schools. For classes 9 and 10, students will take such an exam in the subjects of English, Mathematics and Science. For classes 11 and 12, the subjects chosen for the examination are English, Mathematics and Biology, the report said. Also read | 'Baseless and incorrect': CBSE clarifies after chapter on ‘Dating and Relationship’ goes viral This pilot run has been proposed to be conducted in Nov-Dec this year. The CBSE would evaluate the time taken by students to complete such exams and also the stakeholders' response. The Indian Express report further said that the pilot run would focus on assessing elements such as higher-order thinking skills, application and analysis. What is open open-book examination? An open-book examination allows students to refer to textbooks, class notes and other study material when they appear for an exam. Now it seems that an open book exam is easier than a closed book one as students can directly look at their study material and answer the questions. However, it is not. According to Cornell University, an open-book exam can often be harder than a closed-book one. An open-book exam would require students to use higher levels of thinking. Also watch | Police detain man in India's Punjab for impersonating a girl during exam × "...you won’t just be asked about facts or to recall. Instead, you will be asked to compare, analyse, evaluate, or synthesize information. These ways of demonstrating your knowledge are more challenging than just spitting back facts and require that you deeply know the material and are able to see connections," Cornell University states. In India, the CBSE's proposal for open book examination comes nearly four years after the Delhi University (DU) introduced this format in Aug 2020 during the Covid pandemic. The DU's move was opposed by students. And now, the CBSE would be consulting the DU for this exam format. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian education board CBSE considers open book examination for classes 9-12: Report

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