<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidtrrPWheCQnjr" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>American writer E Jean Carroll's lawyer Roberta Kapalan has said that former United States president Donald Trump used a coded version of the C-word (C**t) against her during a deposition before she helped Carroll win the verdict in her defamation case against him. Kaplan made this remark during a podcast,&nbsp;reported&nbsp;The Guardian on Friday (Feb 2).</p>

<p>Trump used the coded version of the C-word while he was deposed at his Mar-a-Lago resort as part of an unrelated case where he was accused of collaborating with a fraudulent marketing company. The case has been dismissed.</p>

<h2><strong>'See you next Tuesday': The coded version</strong></h2>

<p>"So with the fraud deposition we go through, we end about 4:00 in the afternoon, and, we come in the room and I say, I’m done asking questions. And I immediately hear from the other side. Off the record, off the record, off the record. So they must have planned it. And he looks at me from across the table and says, see you next Tuesday," said&nbsp;Kapalan.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-abruptly-storms-out-of-courtroom-during-closing-arguments-of-e-jean-carroll-defamation-trial-684111">Donald Trump abruptly storms out of courtroom during closing arguments of E Jean Carroll defamation trial</a></strong></p>

<p>The coded version here was “See you next Tuesday,” The Guardian reported. This phrase is well known for a misogynistic insult against a woman- "See you" becomes "C" and "U" and "next Tuesday" becomes "N" and "T," the report added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Didn't initially understand what Trump said'</strong></h2>

<p>Kaplan said during the podcast that she did not initially understand what Trump's remark meant. "And I thank God had no idea what that meant. So I said to him, what are you talking about? I’m coming back on Wednesday. It’s literally it was an honest answer, I had no idea what he was talking about. Then we get into the car," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lawyer's colleagues later told her what Trump's phrase "See you next Tuesday" meant. “Had I known, I for sure would have gotten angry … I looked like I was being above it all, which I wasn’t. I just did not know,” Kaplan added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She further said that Trump also threw a tantrum that day when his legal team offered to provide lunch to Kaplan and her associates.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


American writer E Jean Carroll's lawyer Roberta Kapalan has said that former United States president Donald Trump used a coded version of the C-word (C**t) against her during a deposition before she helped Carroll win the verdict in her defamation case against him.

American writer E Jean Carroll's lawyer Roberta Kapalan has said that former United States president Donald Trump used a coded version of the C-word (C**t) against her during a deposition before she helped Carroll win the verdict in her defamation case against him. Kaplan made this remark during a podcast, reported The Guardian on Friday (Feb 2). Trump used the coded version of the C-word while he was deposed at his Mar-a-Lago resort as part of an unrelated case where he was accused of collaborating with a fraudulent marketing company. The case has been dismissed. 'See you next Tuesday': The coded version "So with the fraud deposition we go through, we end about 4:00 in the afternoon, and, we come in the room and I say, I’m done asking questions. And I immediately hear from the other side. Off the record, off the record, off the record. So they must have planned it. And he looks at me from across the table and says, see you next Tuesday," said Kapalan. Also read | Donald Trump abruptly storms out of courtroom during closing arguments of E Jean Carroll defamation trial The coded version here was “See you next Tuesday,” The Guardian reported. This phrase is well known for a misogynistic insult against a woman- "See you" becomes "C" and "U" and "next Tuesday" becomes "N" and "T," the report added. 'Didn't initially understand what Trump said' Kaplan said during the podcast that she did not initially understand what Trump's remark meant. "And I thank God had no idea what that meant. So I said to him, what are you talking about? I’m coming back on Wednesday. It’s literally it was an honest answer, I had no idea what he was talking about. Then we get into the car," she said. The lawyer's colleagues later told her what Trump's phrase "See you next Tuesday" meant. “Had I known, I for sure would have gotten angry … I looked like I was being above it all, which I wasn’t. I just did not know,” Kaplan added. She further said that Trump also threw a tantrum that day when his legal team offered to provide lunch to Kaplan and her associates. (With inputs from agencies)

E Jean Carroll's lawyer says Trump used coded version of C-word against her

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidtrrPWheCQnjr" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>The mother of the <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blame-game-michigan-school-shooters-mother-says-husband-was-responsible-for-storing-gun-686282">2021 Michigan school shooter </a></strong>and her lover held sex parties while ignoring her son's pleas for mental health treatment, the New York Post reported on Friday (Feb 2) citing prosecutors. During cross-examination of 45-year-old Jennifer Crumbley at her trial in the&nbsp;Oakland County Court, prosecutors said that she and her lover Brian Meloche (who is married to another woman)&nbsp;would often find strangers in Adult Friend Finder- a swinger's app- and arrange meet-ups at a local hotel after work.</p>

<p>Crumbley's son Ethan, a student of the Oxford High School near Detroit, shot dead his four classmates on Nov 30, 2021. He was 15 at the time of committing the crime. During her trial, Crumbley said that she only met Meloche during work hours and admitted to using Adult Friend Finder to “arrange for other people to meet us there” but claimed she was going to hotels after work “on business.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-michigan-shool-shooter-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-without-parole-667787">Michigan school shooter sentenced to life in prison without parole</a></strong></p>

<p>Crumbley was the marketing director of a real estate company while her lover was a local firefighter chief.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Ethan expressed anxiety, but...'</strong></h2>

<p>During the trial, Crumbley was asked by a lawyer whether her son needed mental health treatment or counselling. The 45-year-old woman said, "No. I mean, there were a couple of times where Ethan had expressed anxiety over taking tests, anxiety about what he was going to do after high school, whether it was college or military. So he expressed those, those concerns to me, but not, not to a level where I felt he needed to go see a psychiatrist or a mental health professional right away, no."</p>

<p>Upon being questioned whether she denied such help, Crumbley added, "No. One time when he was talking about what he wanted to do for his future, I don't know, he was feeling really down about it and stressed. We did. We did, my husband did call his school counsellor to try to talk to him because they do a lot of future academic planning with the Tuck School."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas:&nbsp;Stabbing, killings, mass shootings.&nbsp;What is driving children to crime?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-stabbing-killings-mass-shootings-what-is-driving-children-to-crime-670132/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"Was that a mental health issue?" the lawyer further asked. "No, it was more or less addressing what was upsetting my son at that time," the shooter's mother said.</p>

<p>Crumbley and her husband James Crumbley, 47, were charged with four counts of involuntary manslaughter for their son’s deadly high school rampage.</p>

<h2><strong>Ethan was mentally in a 'downward spiral'</strong></h2>

<p>Prosecutors alleged on Friday that Jennifer and James Crumbley knew their son was mentally in a "downward spiral" and posed a danger to others, yet allowed him to have access to firearms, including the 9mm pistol he used to kill his four classmates.</p>

<p>Ethan, now aged 17, pleaded guilty in 2022 to two dozen counts, including four of first-degree murder. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole in December.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The mother of the 2021 Michigan school shooter and her lover held sex parties while ignoring her son's pleas for mental health treatment, the New York Post reported on Friday (Feb 2) citing prosecutors.

The mother of the 2021 Michigan school shooter and her lover held sex parties while ignoring her son's pleas for mental health treatment, the New York Post reported on Friday (Feb 2) citing prosecutors. During cross-examination of 45-year-old Jennifer Crumbley at her trial in the Oakland County Court, prosecutors said that she and her lover Brian Meloche (who is married to another woman) would often find strangers in Adult Friend Finder- a swinger's app- and arrange meet-ups at a local hotel after work. Crumbley's son Ethan, a student of the Oxford High School near Detroit, shot dead his four classmates on Nov 30, 2021. He was 15 at the time of committing the crime. During her trial, Crumbley said that she only met Meloche during work hours and admitted to using Adult Friend Finder to “arrange for other people to meet us there” but claimed she was going to hotels after work “on business.” Also read | Michigan school shooter sentenced to life in prison without parole Crumbley was the marketing director of a real estate company while her lover was a local firefighter chief. 'Ethan expressed anxiety, but...' During the trial, Crumbley was asked by a lawyer whether her son needed mental health treatment or counselling. The 45-year-old woman said, "No. I mean, there were a couple of times where Ethan had expressed anxiety over taking tests, anxiety about what he was going to do after high school, whether it was college or military. So he expressed those, those concerns to me, but not, not to a level where I felt he needed to go see a psychiatrist or a mental health professional right away, no." Upon being questioned whether she denied such help, Crumbley added, "No. One time when he was talking about what he wanted to do for his future, I don't know, he was feeling really down about it and stressed. We did. We did, my husband did call his school counsellor to try to talk to him because they do a lot of future academic planning with the Tuck School." Also watch | Gravitas: Stabbing, killings, mass shootings. What is driving children to crime? × "Was that a mental health issue?" the lawyer further asked. "No, it was more or less addressing what was upsetting my son at that time," the shooter's mother said. Crumbley and her husband James Crumbley, 47, were charged with four counts of involuntary manslaughter for their son’s deadly high school rampage. Ethan was mentally in a 'downward spiral' Prosecutors alleged on Friday that Jennifer and James Crumbley knew their son was mentally in a "downward spiral" and posed a danger to others, yet allowed him to have access to firearms, including the 9mm pistol he used to kill his four classmates. Ethan, now aged 17, pleaded guilty in 2022 to two dozen counts, including four of first-degree murder. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole in December. (With inputs from agencies)

Michigan school shooter's mom held sex parties while ignoring son's pleas for mental health support: Report

<p>The Ukrainian government has informed the White House that it plans to fire the country's top military commander overseeing the war against Russian occupation forces, two knowledgeable sources said on Friday.</p>

<p>The move to oust General Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, who has clashed with President Volodymyr Zelensky over a range of issues, follows a Ukrainian counteroffensive last year that failed to recover significant amounts of Russian-held territory.</p>

<p>A source close to Zelensky's office said the pair are locked in a dispute over a new military mobilization drive, with the president opposing Zaluzhnyi's proposal to call up 500,000 fresh troops.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-feud-between-zelensky-and-ukraine-army-chief-he-wants-to-sack-685971">Explained: The feud between Zelensky and Ukraine Army chief he wants to sack</a></strong></p>

<p>The source, however, added that the process for relieving Zaluzhnyi of his post as the commander in chief of&nbsp;Ukraine's armed forces was on hold for the time being as the sides work out their next steps.</p>

<p>It was unclear how long that process would take, added the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity.</p>

<p>A second knowledgeable source said that the White House did not express a position on the plan to replace Zaluzhnyi.</p>

<p>"I would emphasize that the White House response was that we did not support or object to their sovereign decision," said the source, who requested anonymity in order to discuss the issue.</p>

<p>"The White House expressed that it is up to&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;to make its own sovereign decisions about its personnel," the source continued.</p>

<p>The Washington Post was first to report that&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;had informed the White House of the plan to fire Zaluzhnyi.</p>

<p>US&nbsp;officials told&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;that they were not opposed to the firing of Zaluzhnyi, said the source close to the Ukrainian president's office.</p>

<p>"The US&nbsp;is okay with&nbsp;Ukraine&nbsp;firing him," said the source.</p>

<p>"Right now, both sides (the president and the general) have taken a pause in determining what the future will look like, and for now the status quo will remain until further notice," the source said.</p>

<p>The source said the frictions between Zelensky and Zaluzhnyi over mobilization involved the president's view that the military has enough personnel that could be used more efficiently.</p>

<p>"Zaluzhnyi insists on mobilising half a million men. Zelensky thinks that’s not necessary now," the source said.</p>

<p>Zaluzhnyi on Thursday published a column on the CNN website in which he wrote that the government had failed to mobilize enough troops.</p>

<p>Known as "the Iron General," Zaluzhnyi is extremely popular. His removal could hurt morale among Ukrainian troops battling to hold positions along more than 620 miles (1,000 km) of frontlines against a vast Russian force armed with large munitions stockpiles.</p>

<p>Ukrainian forces are experiencing shortages of critical ammunition. Supplies from the United States, the country's largest arms provider, have run down, and a dispute between the White House and some Republican lawmakers has stalled approval of a new aid package.</p>

<p>A flurry of Western and Ukrainian media reports said that Zaluzhnyi rejected Zelenskiy's request that he step aside this week.</p>

<p>The plan to replace Zaluzhnyi despite his popularity and ability as an inspiring commander may signal Kyiv's desire for a fresh approach to the conflict.</p>


The Ukrainian government has informed the White House that it plans to fire the country's top military commander overseeing the war against Russian occupation forces, two knowledgeable sources said on Friday.

The Ukrainian government has informed the White House that it plans to fire the country's top military commander overseeing the war against Russian occupation forces, two knowledgeable sources said on Friday. The move to oust General Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, who has clashed with President Volodymyr Zelensky over a range of issues, follows a Ukrainian counteroffensive last year that failed to recover significant amounts of Russian-held territory. A source close to Zelensky's office said the pair are locked in a dispute over a new military mobilization drive, with the president opposing Zaluzhnyi's proposal to call up 500,000 fresh troops. Also read | Explained: The feud between Zelensky and Ukraine Army chief he wants to sack The source, however, added that the process for relieving Zaluzhnyi of his post as the commander in chief of Ukraine's armed forces was on hold for the time being as the sides work out their next steps. It was unclear how long that process would take, added the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity. A second knowledgeable source said that the White House did not express a position on the plan to replace Zaluzhnyi. "I would emphasize that the White House response was that we did not support or object to their sovereign decision," said the source, who requested anonymity in order to discuss the issue. "The White House expressed that it is up to Ukraine to make its own sovereign decisions about its personnel," the source continued. The Washington Post was first to report that Ukraine had informed the White House of the plan to fire Zaluzhnyi. US officials told Ukraine that they were not opposed to the firing of Zaluzhnyi, said the source close to the Ukrainian president's office. "The US is okay with Ukraine firing him," said the source. "Right now, both sides (the president and the general) have taken a pause in determining what the future will look like, and for now the status quo will remain until further notice," the source said. The source said the frictions between Zelensky and Zaluzhnyi over mobilization involved the president's view that the military has enough personnel that could be used more efficiently. "Zaluzhnyi insists on mobilising half a million men. Zelensky thinks that’s not necessary now," the source said. Zaluzhnyi on Thursday published a column on the CNN website in which he wrote that the government had failed to mobilize enough troops. Known as "the Iron General," Zaluzhnyi is extremely popular. His removal could hurt morale among Ukrainian troops battling to hold positions along more than 620 miles (1,000 km) of frontlines against a vast Russian force armed with large munitions stockpiles. Ukrainian forces are experiencing shortages of critical ammunition. Supplies from the United States, the country's largest arms provider, have run down, and a dispute between the White House and some Republican lawmakers has stalled approval of a new aid package. A flurry of Western and Ukrainian media reports said that Zaluzhnyi rejected Zelenskiy's request that he step aside this week. The plan to replace Zaluzhnyi despite his popularity and ability as an inspiring commander may signal Kyiv's desire for a fresh approach to the conflict.

Ukraine tells White House of plan to fire top commander: Report

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidQTPsuMcaHo9n" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The United Nations said&nbsp;on Friday (Feb 2) that at least 17,000 children in the war-torn Gaza Strip have been left unaccompanied or separated from their parents. Addressing a press conference, UNICEF spokesperson Jonathan Crickx said, "This figure corresponds to one per cent of the overall displaced population -- 1.7 million people." Each one "is a child who is coming to terms with a horrible new reality."</p>

<p>He added that tracing who the children were was proving "extremely difficult", as sometimes they were brought to a hospital where they may be wounded or in shock, and they couldn't even say their names. The UNICEF spokesperson said that during conflicts, it was common for extended families to take care of children who lost their parents.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-un-agency-for-palestinian-refugees-says-it-can-shut-down-by-feb-end-if-funding-doesnt-resum-686067">Israel-Hamas war: UNRWA says it can shut down by Feb end if funding doesn't resume</a></strong></p>

<p>However, due to&nbsp;lack of necessities such as food, water or shelter, extended families were themselves distressed "and faced challenges to immediately take care of another child as they themselves are struggling to cater for their own children and family."</p>

<h2><strong>'Over a million children in need of mental health'</strong></h2>

<p>Jonathan Crickx also told reporters on Friday that more than a million children in Gaza needed mental health and psycho-social support. Before the Israel-Hamas war started in Oct last year, UNICEF estimated that more than 500,000 children in the Palestinian territory needed such help.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Israel-Hamas war has entered its second month. Children have become the pawns and the victims on both sides of the conflict.<br />
<br />
So, who is to be blamed?<br />
<br />
Watch Dark World with <a href="https://twitter.com/B_Torg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@b_torg</a> to know more.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraelHamaswar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IsraelHamaswar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChildreninIsraelHamaswar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChildreninIsraelHamaswar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNICEF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNICEF</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hamas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hamas</a> <a href="https://t.co/65Ixp5PwbW">pic.twitter.com/65Ixp5PwbW</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1734022689960968443?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"They present symptoms like extremely high levels of persistent anxiety, loss of appetite, they can’t sleep, they have emotional outbursts or panic every time they hear the bombings," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Children don't have anything to do with this conflict. Yet they are suffering like no child should ever suffer," the UNICEF spokesperson added and called for a ceasefire so that UNICEF could conduct a proper count of children who are unaccompanied or separated, trace relatives, and deliver mental health support.</p>

<h2><strong>Hamas gives initial support to Gaza truce plan: Qatar</strong></h2>

<p>On Thursday, Qatar's foreign ministry said that Hamas gave initial support to a proposal for the cessation of fighting in Gaza and the release of hostages. Last Sunday, US, Egyptian and Qatari mediators met with Israeli intelligence officials in Paris where they proposed a six-week pause in the fighting and a hostage-prisoner exchange for Hamas to review.</p>

<p>However, a source close to Hamas told the news agency AFP that there was still no consensus on the proposal. "There is no agreement on the framework of the agreement yet... and the Qatari statement is rushed and not true," the source said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United Nations said on Friday (Feb 2) that at least 17,000 children in the war-torn Gaza Strip have been left unaccompanied or separated from their parents. Addressing a press conference, UNICEF spokesperson Jonathan Crickx said, "This figure corresponds to one per cent of the overall displaced population -- 1.

The United Nations said on Friday (Feb 2) that at least 17,000 children in the war-torn Gaza Strip have been left unaccompanied or separated from their parents. Addressing a press conference, UNICEF spokesperson Jonathan Crickx said, "This figure corresponds to one per cent of the overall displaced population -- 1.7 million people." Each one "is a child who is coming to terms with a horrible new reality." He added that tracing who the children were was proving "extremely difficult", as sometimes they were brought to a hospital where they may be wounded or in shock, and they couldn't even say their names. The UNICEF spokesperson said that during conflicts, it was common for extended families to take care of children who lost their parents. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: UNRWA says it can shut down by Feb end if funding doesn't resume However, due to lack of necessities such as food, water or shelter, extended families were themselves distressed "and faced challenges to immediately take care of another child as they themselves are struggling to cater for their own children and family." 'Over a million children in need of mental health' Jonathan Crickx also told reporters on Friday that more than a million children in Gaza needed mental health and psycho-social support. Before the Israel-Hamas war started in Oct last year, UNICEF estimated that more than 500,000 children in the Palestinian territory needed such help. The Israel-Hamas war has entered its second month. Children have become the pawns and the victims on both sides of the conflict. So, who is to be blamed? Watch Dark World with @b_torg to know more.#IsraelHamaswar #ChildreninIsraelHamaswar #UNICEF #Hamas pic.twitter.com/65Ixp5PwbW — WION (@WIONews) December 11, 2023 × "They present symptoms like extremely high levels of persistent anxiety, loss of appetite, they can’t sleep, they have emotional outbursts or panic every time they hear the bombings," he said. "Children don't have anything to do with this conflict. Yet they are suffering like no child should ever suffer," the UNICEF spokesperson added and called for a ceasefire so that UNICEF could conduct a proper count of children who are unaccompanied or separated, trace relatives, and deliver mental health support. Hamas gives initial support to Gaza truce plan: Qatar On Thursday, Qatar's foreign ministry said that Hamas gave initial support to a proposal for the cessation of fighting in Gaza and the release of hostages. Last Sunday, US, Egyptian and Qatari mediators met with Israeli intelligence officials in Paris where they proposed a six-week pause in the fighting and a hostage-prisoner exchange for Hamas to review. However, a source close to Hamas told the news agency AFP that there was still no consensus on the proposal. "There is no agreement on the framework of the agreement yet... and the Qatari statement is rushed and not true," the source said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: At least 17,000 children in Gaza left unaccompanied or separated from parents, says UN

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid2uw46rIAHNX2" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>The United Nations Palestinian refugee agency, commonly known as the UNRWA, said on Thursday (Feb 1) that it would most likely be forced to shut down its operations by the end of Feb in the war-torn Gaza Strip and the rest of the Middle East if international funding did not resume. "The agency remains the largest aid organization in one of the most severe and complex humanitarian crises in the world," UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If the funding remains suspended, we will most likely be forced to shut down our operations by the end of February not only in Gaza but also across the region," Lazzarini added.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/middle-east-crisis-live-unrwa-forced-to-abandon-its-health-centres-and-shelters-in-western-khan-younis-685678">Click here to follow all updates on the Middle East crisis</a></strong></p>

<p>Several countries including the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), Germany, and Japan suspended funding to UNRWA, which has been at the heart of humanitarian efforts in Gaza after the Israel-Hamas war started in Oct last year. The suspension came in the wake of Israel's allegations that some UNRWA staff were involved in Hamas' Oct 7 attack.</p>

<h2><strong>'Urge nations to reconsider their decision'</strong></h2>

<p>A report by the news agency AFP on Thursday said&nbsp;Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi&nbsp;held talks with&nbsp;Philippe Lazzarini and&nbsp;"emphasised the immediate need for the international community to support UNRWA, which plays an indispensable role for Palestinian refugees, serving as a lifeline for over two million Palestinians facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Gaza."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A number of donor countries suspended US$ 440 million worth of funding to <a href="https://twitter.com/UNRWA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNRWA</a> Meanwhile the war in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a> is going unabated.<br />
<br />
At the time the International Court of Justice calls for more humanitarian assistance, it is the time to reinforce not to weaken <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNRWA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNRWA</a> We are the…</p>
— Philippe Lazzarini (@UNLazzarini) <a href="https://twitter.com/UNLazzarini/status/1753064498259189925?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>A foreign ministry statement said that both Safadi and Lazzarini urged countries that have suspended aid to UNRWA to "reconsider their decision."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-countries-pausing-funding-for-unrwa-might-be-violating-genocide-convention-heres-how-684886">Explained: Countries pausing funding for UNRWA might be violating genocide convention. Here’s how</a></strong></p>

<p>"Any reduction in financial support provided to the agency will exacerbate the suffering of the people of Gaza, who are already on the brink of mass starvation," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UNRWA totally infiltrated with Hamas: Netanyahu</strong></h2>

<p>The UNRWA's SOS comes a day after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a meeting of UN ambassadors in Jerusalem said that the UNRWA had been "totally infiltrated" by Hamas, and added that "we need to get other UN agencies and other aid agencies replacing UNRWA."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israeli PM Netanyahu says UNRWA’s mission must be terminated</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-israeli-pm-netanyahu-says-unrwas-mission-must-be-terminated-686014/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"I say this with great regret because we hoped that there would be an objective and constructive body to offer aid. We need such a body today in Gaza, but UNRWA is not that body," the Israeli PM further said during the meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United Nations Palestinian refugee agency, commonly known as the UNRWA, said on Thursday (Feb 1) that it would most likely be forced to shut down its operations by the end of Feb in the war-torn Gaza Strip and the rest of the Middle East if international funding did not resume.

The United Nations Palestinian refugee agency, commonly known as the UNRWA, said on Thursday (Feb 1) that it would most likely be forced to shut down its operations by the end of Feb in the war-torn Gaza Strip and the rest of the Middle East if international funding did not resume. "The agency remains the largest aid organization in one of the most severe and complex humanitarian crises in the world," UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini said in a statement. "If the funding remains suspended, we will most likely be forced to shut down our operations by the end of February not only in Gaza but also across the region," Lazzarini added. Click here to follow all updates on the Middle East crisis Several countries including the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), Germany, and Japan suspended funding to UNRWA, which has been at the heart of humanitarian efforts in Gaza after the Israel-Hamas war started in Oct last year. The suspension came in the wake of Israel's allegations that some UNRWA staff were involved in Hamas' Oct 7 attack. 'Urge nations to reconsider their decision' A report by the news agency AFP on Thursday said Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi held talks with Philippe Lazzarini and "emphasised the immediate need for the international community to support UNRWA, which plays an indispensable role for Palestinian refugees, serving as a lifeline for over two million Palestinians facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Gaza." A number of donor countries suspended US$ 440 million worth of funding to @UNRWA Meanwhile the war in #Gaza is going unabated. At the time the International Court of Justice calls for more humanitarian assistance, it is the time to reinforce not to weaken #UNRWA We are the… — Philippe Lazzarini (@UNLazzarini) February 1, 2024 × A foreign ministry statement said that both Safadi and Lazzarini urged countries that have suspended aid to UNRWA to "reconsider their decision." Also read | Explained: Countries pausing funding for UNRWA might be violating genocide convention. Here’s how "Any reduction in financial support provided to the agency will exacerbate the suffering of the people of Gaza, who are already on the brink of mass starvation," the statement added. UNRWA totally infiltrated with Hamas: Netanyahu The UNRWA's SOS comes a day after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a meeting of UN ambassadors in Jerusalem said that the UNRWA had been "totally infiltrated" by Hamas, and added that "we need to get other UN agencies and other aid agencies replacing UNRWA." Also watch | Israeli PM Netanyahu says UNRWA’s mission must be terminated × "I say this with great regret because we hoped that there would be an objective and constructive body to offer aid. We need such a body today in Gaza, but UNRWA is not that body," the Israeli PM further said during the meeting. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: UNRWA says it can shut down by Feb end if funding doesn't resume

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidQTPsuMcaHo9n" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Ahead of the Feb 8 parliamentary elections in Pakistan, the caretaker administration is making plans for the next government to sell the national airline- Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), reported news agency Reuters&nbsp;on Friday (Feb 2), citing people familiar with the matter.</p>

<p>Speaking to Reuters, Privatisation Minister Fawad Hasan Fawad said, "Our job is 98 per cent done. The remaining two per cent is just to bring it on an excel sheet after the cabinet approves it."</p>

<p>The plan to sell the PIA was drawn up by Ernst &amp; Young (EY). Privatisation Minister Fawad said the plan will be presented to the cabinet for approval before the tenure of the administration ends following the elections.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-promising-to-end-politics-of-hate-bilawal-bhutto-optimistic-about-pakistan-election-result-686332">Exclusive: An optimistic Bilawal Bhutto promises to end politics of hate post elections in Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<p>The cabinet will also decide whether to sell the stake by tender or through a government-to-government deal, he said. The minister further said that what the caretaker administration did in just four months was what past governments had been trying to do for more than a decade.</p>

<h2><strong>The privatisation of PIA</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan, which has been going through an economic crisis, agreed in June last year to overhaul loss-making state-owned enterprises under a deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a $3 billion bailout. Just weeks after signing the IMF agreement, Islamabad decided to privatise the PIA.</p>

<p>As of June 2023, PIA had liabilities of 785 billion Pakistani rupees ($2.81 billion) and accumulated losses of 713 billion rupees. The airline said losses in 2023 were likely to be 112 billion rupees.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Toshakhana case: Imran Khan, wife handed over 14-year sentence</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-toshakhana-case-imran-khan-wife-handed-over-14-year-sentence-685443/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Citing two sources, Reuters reported that a 51 per cent stake with full management control would be offered to buyers after parking the airline's debts in a separate entity. Earlier, a PIA spokesperson said that the national carrier was assisting the privatisation process, extending "full cooperation" to the transaction adviser.</p>

<p>A draft posted on the Pakistan parliament's website said that besides operational and technical measures for PIA's divestment, the caretaker administration also amended a 2016 law that had blocked selling off its majority shares.</p>

<h2><strong>Criticism of the 'speedy sale'</strong></h2>

<p>The speedy sale of the PIA has been criticised. Speaking to Reuters, three airline officials who chose to remain anonymous, said that fast sale could devalue the airline's worth and that it would not be a transparent transaction without due diligence.</p>

<p>"We are not against its privatisation, and all we want is that you don't just throw it away," one of the officials said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from losses and debts, PIA's governance and safety standards have been under scrutiny in recent years. In May 2020, the crash of a PIA plane in Karachi killed nearly 100 people and a fake pilot licence scandal erupted later that year.</p>

<p>This scandal led to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) banning the PIA from flying to its most lucrative routes in Europe and the UK. The ban is still in place and the PIA has been pleading with EASA to lift the ban even provisionally.</p>

<p>The national carrier also said that the economic crisis in Pakistan led to seizure of PIA aircraft by creditors in recent months. Reuters also reported that while the PIA is awaiting a decision on the sale, it continues to need financial support to keep it afloat for another five to six months.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ahead of the Feb 8 parliamentary elections in Pakistan, the caretaker administration is making plans for the next government to sell the national airline- Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), reported news agency Reuters on Friday (Feb 2), citing people familiar with the matter.

Ahead of the Feb 8 parliamentary elections in Pakistan, the caretaker administration is making plans for the next government to sell the national airline- Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), reported news agency Reuters on Friday (Feb 2), citing people familiar with the matter. Speaking to Reuters, Privatisation Minister Fawad Hasan Fawad said, "Our job is 98 per cent done. The remaining two per cent is just to bring it on an excel sheet after the cabinet approves it." The plan to sell the PIA was drawn up by Ernst & Young (EY). Privatisation Minister Fawad said the plan will be presented to the cabinet for approval before the tenure of the administration ends following the elections. Also read | Exclusive: An optimistic Bilawal Bhutto promises to end politics of hate post elections in Pakistan The cabinet will also decide whether to sell the stake by tender or through a government-to-government deal, he said. The minister further said that what the caretaker administration did in just four months was what past governments had been trying to do for more than a decade. The privatisation of PIA Pakistan, which has been going through an economic crisis, agreed in June last year to overhaul loss-making state-owned enterprises under a deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a $3 billion bailout. Just weeks after signing the IMF agreement, Islamabad decided to privatise the PIA. As of June 2023, PIA had liabilities of 785 billion Pakistani rupees ($2.81 billion) and accumulated losses of 713 billion rupees. The airline said losses in 2023 were likely to be 112 billion rupees. Also watch | Toshakhana case: Imran Khan, wife handed over 14-year sentence × Citing two sources, Reuters reported that a 51 per cent stake with full management control would be offered to buyers after parking the airline's debts in a separate entity. Earlier, a PIA spokesperson said that the national carrier was assisting the privatisation process, extending "full cooperation" to the transaction adviser. A draft posted on the Pakistan parliament's website said that besides operational and technical measures for PIA's divestment, the caretaker administration also amended a 2016 law that had blocked selling off its majority shares. Criticism of the 'speedy sale' The speedy sale of the PIA has been criticised. Speaking to Reuters, three airline officials who chose to remain anonymous, said that fast sale could devalue the airline's worth and that it would not be a transparent transaction without due diligence. "We are not against its privatisation, and all we want is that you don't just throw it away," one of the officials said. Apart from losses and debts, PIA's governance and safety standards have been under scrutiny in recent years. In May 2020, the crash of a PIA plane in Karachi killed nearly 100 people and a fake pilot licence scandal erupted later that year. This scandal led to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) banning the PIA from flying to its most lucrative routes in Europe and the UK. The ban is still in place and the PIA has been pleading with EASA to lift the ban even provisionally. The national carrier also said that the economic crisis in Pakistan led to seizure of PIA aircraft by creditors in recent months. Reuters also reported that while the PIA is awaiting a decision on the sale, it continues to need financial support to keep it afloat for another five to six months. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan on verge of sealing plan to sell national airline PIA ahead of Feb 8 elections

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidQTPsuMcaHo9n" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidQTPsuMcaHo9n" /><meta charset="utf-8" /><meta name="uuid" content="uuidQTPsuMcaHo9n" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Nine people, including two children, were injured on Wednesday (Jan 31) in south London's Clapham&nbsp;after a man threw a "corrosive substance" at them. According to British media, the suspect has been identified as 35-year-old Abdul Shokoor Ezedi. A report by Daily Mail on Friday said that a manhunt has been launched for Ezedi who was also injured in the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, the <strong><a href="https://news.met.police.uk/news/update-manhunt-after-corrosive-substance-thrown-in-lambeth-478845">Metropolitan Police said</a></strong> the victims included a woman and her two children who were hospitalised for treatment, adding that three other people - all adults - were taken to hospital&nbsp;as well. The remaining three victims were police officers who suffered minor injuries.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mysterious-corrosive-substance-thrown-leaves-9-people-injured-in-south-london-685877">Mysterious 'corrosive' substance leaves 9 people injured in south London</a></strong></p>

<p>According to the Daily Mail report, police urged the public to stay away from Ezedi who had been earlier convicted of a sex crime. So who is he?</p>

<h2><strong>Ezedi: Sex offender, who was granted asylum in UK</strong></h2>

<p>In 2016, Ezedi arrived illegally in the United Kingdom (UK) in the back of a lorry after fleeing from Afghanistan. Daily Mail reported that he had two applications for asylum in the UK rejected.</p>

<p>In 2018, he pleaded guilty to sexual assault and exposure charges but was not imprisoned. Ezedi received a nine-week jail term suspended for two years for the sexual assault and, for the exposure, 36 weeks' imprisonment to be served consecutively, also suspended for two years.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A manhunt to trace Abdul Shokoor Ezedi is under way. He is wanted in connection with a corrosive substance attack in Clapham.<br />
<br />
If you see Ezedi, call 999 immediately. He should NOT be approached.<br />
<br />
Ezedi is believed to have sustained significant injuries to the right side of his… <a href="https://t.co/wGyYdRMEI3">https://t.co/wGyYdRMEI3</a></p>
— Metropolitan Police (@metpoliceuk) <a href="https://twitter.com/metpoliceuk/status/1753065844723110294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>He was later granted the right to stay in the UK on his third asylum application in either 2020 or 2021. The grant came after a priest vouched that Ezedi converted to Christianity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wednesday's chemical attack took place on Lessar Road at 7.25 pm local time. CCTV footage showed Ezedi also suffering severe burns to his face. The report&nbsp;said that the 35-year-old attacked the youngest of the woman's&nbsp;two daughters by 'slamming' her into the road.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'He should have never been granted asylum'</strong></h2>

<p>Tory lawmakers called for the Rishi Sunak government to reform its policy on asylum seekers in the UK in the wake of Wednesday's attack. Speaking to The Telegraph, Miriam Cates, MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge said that Ezedi should have never been granted asylum. "We need to get to the bottom of how he was able to be granted leave to remain."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Indian student found dead in London lake, final identification not done yet</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-indian-student-found-dead-in-london-lake-final-identification-not-done-yet-672555/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"This brings home the enormous security threat that this country faces from thousands of illegal migrants entering the UK each year," Cates added.</p>

<p>In a separate post on X, she said, "An immigration system that prioritises the preferences of individual foreign nationals over the security of the UK population as a whole will be abused and exploited and many innocent people will suffer. Strong border control is not cruel - it’s the foundation of a safe society."</p>

<p>Sir John Hayes, the MP for South Holland and The Deepings said that he would be writing to Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, asking for an urgent review of the country's asylum rules.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Nine people, including two children, were injured on Wednesday (Jan 31) in south London's Clapham after a man threw a "corrosive substance" at them. According to British media, the suspect has been identified as 35-year-old Abdul Shokoor Ezedi.

Nine people, including two children, were injured on Wednesday (Jan 31) in south London's Clapham after a man threw a "corrosive substance" at them. According to British media, the suspect has been identified as 35-year-old Abdul Shokoor Ezedi. A report by Daily Mail on Friday said that a manhunt has been launched for Ezedi who was also injured in the incident. On Wednesday, the Metropolitan Police said the victims included a woman and her two children who were hospitalised for treatment, adding that three other people - all adults - were taken to hospital as well. The remaining three victims were police officers who suffered minor injuries. Also read | Mysterious 'corrosive' substance leaves 9 people injured in south London According to the Daily Mail report, police urged the public to stay away from Ezedi who had been earlier convicted of a sex crime. So who is he? Ezedi: Sex offender, who was granted asylum in UK In 2016, Ezedi arrived illegally in the United Kingdom (UK) in the back of a lorry after fleeing from Afghanistan. Daily Mail reported that he had two applications for asylum in the UK rejected. In 2018, he pleaded guilty to sexual assault and exposure charges but was not imprisoned. Ezedi received a nine-week jail term suspended for two years for the sexual assault and, for the exposure, 36 weeks' imprisonment to be served consecutively, also suspended for two years. A manhunt to trace Abdul Shokoor Ezedi is under way. He is wanted in connection with a corrosive substance attack in Clapham. If you see Ezedi, call 999 immediately. He should NOT be approached. Ezedi is believed to have sustained significant injuries to the right side of his… https://t.co/wGyYdRMEI3 — Metropolitan Police (@metpoliceuk) February 1, 2024 × He was later granted the right to stay in the UK on his third asylum application in either 2020 or 2021. The grant came after a priest vouched that Ezedi converted to Christianity. Wednesday's chemical attack took place on Lessar Road at 7.25 pm local time. CCTV footage showed Ezedi also suffering severe burns to his face. The report said that the 35-year-old attacked the youngest of the woman's two daughters by 'slamming' her into the road. 'He should have never been granted asylum' Tory lawmakers called for the Rishi Sunak government to reform its policy on asylum seekers in the UK in the wake of Wednesday's attack. Speaking to The Telegraph, Miriam Cates, MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge said that Ezedi should have never been granted asylum. "We need to get to the bottom of how he was able to be granted leave to remain." Also watch | Indian student found dead in London lake, final identification not done yet × "This brings home the enormous security threat that this country faces from thousands of illegal migrants entering the UK each year," Cates added. In a separate post on X, she said, "An immigration system that prioritises the preferences of individual foreign nationals over the security of the UK population as a whole will be abused and exploited and many innocent people will suffer. Strong border control is not cruel - it’s the foundation of a safe society." Sir John Hayes, the MP for South Holland and The Deepings said that he would be writing to Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, asking for an urgent review of the country's asylum rules. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Abdul Ezedi, suspect behind chemical attack in south London that injured nine?

<p>Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren&nbsp;was on Friday (Feb 2) sent to a five-day custody of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the alleged land scam case in the state. According to a report by the news agency ANI, Soren, the chief of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) party, was arrested by the ED on Wednesday following&nbsp;summons in the case and several hours of questioning.</p>

<p>Soren was earlier sent to one-day custody by a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court in&nbsp;Ranchi, which&nbsp;has now extended his custody&nbsp;to five days. The ED had said that it recovered cash worth in excess of $43,418 (around Rs 36 lakh) from Soren's possession along with documents linked to the ongoing probe into the alleged acquisition of land by fraudulent means.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-jharkhand-without-chief-minister-potential-next-cm-champai-soren-meets-governor-686166">Champai Soren takes oath as Jharkhand chief minister</a></strong></p>

<p>The ED added that land parcels spanning 8.5 acres were part of the criminal proceedings that Soren allegedly acquired. In a raid conducted in April last year, the agency unearthed several property-related records and registers that were in possession of Bhanu Pratap Prasad, a revenue sub-inspector.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The central agency further informed the probe revealed that Prasad and others were part of a very large syndicate involved in corrupt practices of acquiring properties forcefully as well as on the basis of false needs, reported news agency ANI.</p>

<h2><strong>Soren moves Supreme Court against arrest</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Hemant Soren, on Friday&nbsp;moved the Supreme Court against his arrest. But&nbsp;the top court refused to entertain his plea, challenging his arrest by ED in the case and asked&nbsp;him to approach the concerned high court with his petition.</p>

<p>A bench of justices Sanjiv Khanna, MM Sundresh and Bela M.Trivedi said they were not inclined to entertain the petition. The SC also said it was open for the petitioner to urge the high court to expeditiously decide the case.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Hemant Soren arrested by ED in land scam money laundering probe</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-hemant-soren-arrested-by-ed-in-land-scam-money-laundering-probe-685653/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Senior lawyer Kapil Sibal, appearing for the former Jharkhand CM, submitted (to the to court) that the matter dealt with a chief minister who was arrested. The SC then remarked that courts were open to everybody and high courts were constitutional.</p>

<p>If they allowed one person, they would have to allow everybody, the SC added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren was on Friday (Feb 2) sent to a five-day custody of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the alleged land scam case in the state.

Former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren was on Friday (Feb 2) sent to a five-day custody of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the alleged land scam case in the state. According to a report by the news agency ANI, Soren, the chief of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) party, was arrested by the ED on Wednesday following summons in the case and several hours of questioning. Soren was earlier sent to one-day custody by a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court in Ranchi, which has now extended his custody to five days. The ED had said that it recovered cash worth in excess of $43,418 (around Rs 36 lakh) from Soren's possession along with documents linked to the ongoing probe into the alleged acquisition of land by fraudulent means. Also read | Champai Soren takes oath as Jharkhand chief minister The ED added that land parcels spanning 8.5 acres were part of the criminal proceedings that Soren allegedly acquired. In a raid conducted in April last year, the agency unearthed several property-related records and registers that were in possession of Bhanu Pratap Prasad, a revenue sub-inspector. The central agency further informed the probe revealed that Prasad and others were part of a very large syndicate involved in corrupt practices of acquiring properties forcefully as well as on the basis of false needs, reported news agency ANI. Soren moves Supreme Court against arrest Meanwhile, Hemant Soren, on Friday moved the Supreme Court against his arrest. But the top court refused to entertain his plea, challenging his arrest by ED in the case and asked him to approach the concerned high court with his petition. A bench of justices Sanjiv Khanna, MM Sundresh and Bela M.Trivedi said they were not inclined to entertain the petition. The SC also said it was open for the petitioner to urge the high court to expeditiously decide the case. Also watch | Hemant Soren arrested by ED in land scam money laundering probe × Senior lawyer Kapil Sibal, appearing for the former Jharkhand CM, submitted (to the to court) that the matter dealt with a chief minister who was arrested. The SC then remarked that courts were open to everybody and high courts were constitutional. If they allowed one person, they would have to allow everybody, the SC added. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Former Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren sent to five-day ED custody in alleged land scam case

JWST Captures Staggering Structure in 19 Spiral Galaxies. Images Revealed



The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has captured breathtaking images of 19 nearby spiral galaxies. Near- and mid-infrared images show off every facet of these face-on spiral galaxies.

Webb’s NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera) captured millions of stars in these images, which sparkle in blue tones. Some stars are spread throughout the spiral arms, but others are clumped tightly together in star clusters.

These 19 images are part of a large, long-standing project, the Physics at High Angular Resolution in Nearby GalaxieS (PHANGS) programme, which is supported by more than 150 astronomers worldwide.

Janice Lee, project scientist for strategic initiatives at the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore, said news images of the nearby galaxies were extraordinary. “They’re mind-blowing even for researchers who have studied these same galaxies for decades. Bubbles and filaments are resolved down to the smallest scales ever observed, and tell a story about the star formation cycle,” Lee said.

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid2uw46rIAHNX2" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>The Indian Navy recently carried out two <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-rescues-19-pakistani-crew-members-from-armed-somali-pirates-685010">consecutive anti-piracy operations off the East Coast of Somalia</a></strong>, freeing crew members and vessels from Somali pirates. The navy's warship INS Sumitra rescued 19 Pakistani nationals aboard the fishing vessel Al Naeemi and 17 Iranian nationals aboard the FV Iman. Now a video has surfaced of rescued Pakistani nationals waving goodbye to the navy personnel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the 12-second video, the Pakistanis were heard saying bye to the Indian Navy personnel after they were rescued. "Bye, take care as you leave," (Bye, aaram se jana) one of the navy personnel could be heard saying.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Here's a look at the video:</h3>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Bye...aram se jana (take care as u go", rescued Pakistanis after Indian Navy concludes it's anti piracy operation rescuing them from the clutches of Somali pirates <a href="https://t.co/1XQfrlS1lR">https://t.co/1XQfrlS1lR</a> <a href="https://t.co/sVaDQQ0vsF">pic.twitter.com/sVaDQQ0vsF</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1752702599974060499?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>The two rescue operations</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, the <strong><a href="https://indiannavy.nic.in/content/ins-sumitra-carries-out-2nd-successful-anti-piracy-ops-%E2%80%93-rescuing-19-crew-members-and-vessel">navy said in a statement</a></strong> on Tuesday, "The warship on PM 28 Jan 2024 had responded to a distress message regarding the hijacking of an Iranian flagged Fishing Vessel (FV) Iman, which had been boarded by pirates and the crew taken as hostages. The FV was intercepted by INS Sumitra and following the SOPs and coercive posturing the vessel and her Crew (17 Iranian Nationals) were safely rescued in the early hours of 29 Jan 2024."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-rescues-hijacked-sri-lankan-vessel-all-six-crew-members-safe-685213">Indian Navy rescues hijacked Sri Lankan vessel, all six crew members safe</a></strong></p>

<p>"FV Iman was sanitised and released for onward transit," the statement added.</p>

<p>The navy further said that subsequently, the warship located and intercepted another Iranian-flagged fishing vessel Al Naeemi which had been boarded by pirates, and the fishing vessel's 19 Pakistani crew were taken hostage.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianNavy</a> remains committed to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MaritimeSecurity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MaritimeSecurity</a> in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianOceanRegion?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianOceanRegion</a>, in keeping with <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a>'s vision of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAGAR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAGAR</a>.<br />
<br />
Indian Naval warships mission deployed in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IOR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IOR</a> are ensuring security against all <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/maritime?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#maritime</a> threats, keeping our seas safe for mariners of all… <a href="https://t.co/n2dAOg6jw6">pic.twitter.com/n2dAOg6jw6</a></p>
— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) <a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy/status/1752691592409075949?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"Responding swiftly to the developing situation Sumitra intercepted the FV on PM 29 Jan 2024 and through coercive posturing and effective deployment of her integral helicopter and boats compelled the safe release of the crew and the vessel. The ship also undertook confirmatory boarding to sanitise and also to check on the well-being of the crew who were held captive by the Somali pirates," it added.</p>


The Indian Navy recently carried out two consecutive anti-piracy operations off the East Coast of Somalia, freeing crew members and vessels from Somali pirates. The navy's warship INS Sumitra rescued 19 Pakistani nationals aboard the fishing vessel Al Naeemi and 17 Iranian nationals aboard the FV Iman.

The Indian Navy recently carried out two consecutive anti-piracy operations off the East Coast of Somalia, freeing crew members and vessels from Somali pirates. The navy's warship INS Sumitra rescued 19 Pakistani nationals aboard the fishing vessel Al Naeemi and 17 Iranian nationals aboard the FV Iman. Now a video has surfaced of rescued Pakistani nationals waving goodbye to the navy personnel. In the 12-second video, the Pakistanis were heard saying bye to the Indian Navy personnel after they were rescued. "Bye, take care as you leave," (Bye, aaram se jana) one of the navy personnel could be heard saying. Here's a look at the video: "Bye...aram se jana (take care as u go", rescued Pakistanis after Indian Navy concludes it's anti piracy operation rescuing them from the clutches of Somali pirates https://t.co/1XQfrlS1lR pic.twitter.com/sVaDQQ0vsF — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) January 31, 2024 × The two rescue operations Earlier, the navy said in a statement on Tuesday, "The warship on PM 28 Jan 2024 had responded to a distress message regarding the hijacking of an Iranian flagged Fishing Vessel (FV) Iman, which had been boarded by pirates and the crew taken as hostages. The FV was intercepted by INS Sumitra and following the SOPs and coercive posturing the vessel and her Crew (17 Iranian Nationals) were safely rescued in the early hours of 29 Jan 2024." Also read | Indian Navy rescues hijacked Sri Lankan vessel, all six crew members safe "FV Iman was sanitised and released for onward transit," the statement added. The navy further said that subsequently, the warship located and intercepted another Iranian-flagged fishing vessel Al Naeemi which had been boarded by pirates, and the fishing vessel's 19 Pakistani crew were taken hostage. #IndianNavy remains committed to #MaritimeSecurity in the #IndianOceanRegion, in keeping with @PMOIndia's vision of #SAGAR. Indian Naval warships mission deployed in the #IOR are ensuring security against all #maritime threats, keeping our seas safe for mariners of all… pic.twitter.com/n2dAOg6jw6 — SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) January 31, 2024 × "Responding swiftly to the developing situation Sumitra intercepted the FV on PM 29 Jan 2024 and through coercive posturing and effective deployment of her integral helicopter and boats compelled the safe release of the crew and the vessel. The ship also undertook confirmatory boarding to sanitise and also to check on the well-being of the crew who were held captive by the Somali pirates," it added.

‘Bye, take care as you leave’: Indian Navy personnel to Pakistanis rescued from Somali pirates. Watch

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidS4YPz5VXzllB" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidS4YPz5VXzllB" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the interim Budget 2024&nbsp;on Thursday (Feb 1).&nbsp;In her speech, the finance minister&nbsp;said that the Modi government will be working towards making the country a '<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-budget-2024-budget-is-inclusive-and-innovative-says-pm-modi-685858">Viksit (Advanced) Bharat'</a></strong> by 2047.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Indian economy has witnessed a profound positive transformation in the last 10 years. The people of India are looking ahead to the future with hope and optimism," Sitharaman said.</p>

<h2><strong>Political leaders&nbsp;react&nbsp;to the Budget. Here's a look at what they said:&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p><strong>&gt; PM Modi:&nbsp;</strong>Hailing the interim Budget, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said,&nbsp;"It has confidence in continuity. It will empower all 4 pillars of Viksit Bharat- Yuva, Garib, Mahila and Kisan. This Budget gives the guarantee of making India a developed nation by 2047." He added that the budget benefits every section of the society and lays the foundation for a developed India.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-budget-2024-budget-is-inclusive-and-innovative-says-pm-modi-685858">Budget is 'inclusive and innovative,' says PM Modi</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>&gt; Amit Shah:</strong>&nbsp;Union Home Minister Amit Shah&nbsp;in a post on X said, "The budget speech sheds light on the milestones achieved by the Modi govt in the last 10 years on its journey to make Bharat the foremost nation in every sector during the Amrit Kaal. On the very foundation of these feats, the magnificent edifice of a Viksit Bharat is being built."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | PM Modi on interim Budget says, "Income-tax remission scheme will provide relief to 1 crore people from the middle class. In this budget, important decisions have been taken for the farmers."<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Budget2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Budget2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/Lg2fRnMJS5">pic.twitter.com/Lg2fRnMJS5</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1752965455541928355?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>&gt; Rajnath Singh:</strong>&nbsp;Defence Minister Rajnath Singh speaking to news agency&nbsp;ANI said,&nbsp;"This is an encouraging budget....We are fully confident that we will achieve the target of becoming a developed nation by 2047."</p>

<p><strong>&gt; Nitin Gadkari:</strong>&nbsp;Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari said the budget will speed up the country's development and increase employment. "Finance Minister's Budget is aimed to strengthen India's economic sector, in line with PM Modi's resolve to make India the third largest economy of the world," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>&gt; Jyotiraditya Scindia:</strong>&nbsp;Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia called the budget historic, adding the country has moved forward.</p>

<h2><strong>Oppn leaders criticise the Budget</strong></h2>

<p>Several opposition leaders in the country, including those from the Congress, and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), criticised the interim Budget.</p>

<p>Speaking to&nbsp;news agency ANI, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor said, "It was one of the shortest speeches on record in the budget. Not very much came out of it. As usual a lot of rhetorical language, and very little concrete on implementation...She (Nirmala Sitharaman) talked about foreign investment without acknowledging that that investment has come down significantly."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | On Interim Budget 2024-25, AAP MP Swati Maliwal says, "This is a disappointing budget. Inflation and unemployment are at their peak in the country but there is nothing about it in the budget...It is a disappointing budget for the common people." <a href="https://t.co/9Ksu1BZ7AS">pic.twitter.com/9Ksu1BZ7AS</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1752964094808994299?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Tharoor added that Sitharaman talked about many things which are couched in vague language like 'confidence' and 'hope' and soon. But when it comes to hard figures, very few figures are available, he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-interim-budget-key-takeaways-from-nirmala-sitharamans-budget-speech-685817">India interim Budget: "Garib, Mahilayen, Yuva, Annadata", key takeaways from Sitharaman's speech</a></strong></p>

<p>Congress MP Manish Tewari speaking on the budget said,&nbsp;"What's worrying is that there is a budget deficit of Rs 18 lakh crores. This means that the government is borrowing for its expenditure. This number is only going to increase next year."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | On Interim Budget 2024-25, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor says, "It was one of the shortest speeches on record in the Budget. Not very much came out of it. As usual a lot of rhetorical language, very little concrete on implementation...She talked about foreign investment… <a href="https://t.co/x0AhgGSlQ4">pic.twitter.com/x0AhgGSlQ4</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1752948712417214888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said the budget was nothing but to woo people in the upcoming election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Unfortunately, the finance minister is talking about the achievements of the last ten years. It is a temporary budget. Even then it is not giving any vision...The unemployment position in the country is alarming and nothing is mentioned about this...It is only an eloquent speech made by the finance minister...," Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP) MP NK Premachandran told ANI.</p>

<p>Shiromani Akali Dal MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal said the budget was hollow and there was nothing for the country's youth, women and farmers in it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the interim Budget 2024 on Thursday (Feb 1). In her speech, the finance minister said that the Modi government will be working towards making the country a 'Viksit (Advanced) Bharat' by 2047.

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the interim Budget 2024 on Thursday (Feb 1). In her speech, the finance minister said that the Modi government will be working towards making the country a 'Viksit (Advanced) Bharat' by 2047. "The Indian economy has witnessed a profound positive transformation in the last 10 years. The people of India are looking ahead to the future with hope and optimism," Sitharaman said. Political leaders react to the Budget. Here's a look at what they said: > PM Modi: Hailing the interim Budget, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said, "It has confidence in continuity. It will empower all 4 pillars of Viksit Bharat- Yuva, Garib, Mahila and Kisan. This Budget gives the guarantee of making India a developed nation by 2047." He added that the budget benefits every section of the society and lays the foundation for a developed India. Also read: Budget is 'inclusive and innovative,' says PM Modi > Amit Shah: Union Home Minister Amit Shah in a post on X said, "The budget speech sheds light on the milestones achieved by the Modi govt in the last 10 years on its journey to make Bharat the foremost nation in every sector during the Amrit Kaal. On the very foundation of these feats, the magnificent edifice of a Viksit Bharat is being built." #WATCH | PM Modi on interim Budget says, "Income-tax remission scheme will provide relief to 1 crore people from the middle class. In this budget, important decisions have been taken for the farmers."#Budget2024 pic.twitter.com/Lg2fRnMJS5 — ANI (@ANI) February 1, 2024 × > Rajnath Singh: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh speaking to news agency ANI said, "This is an encouraging budget....We are fully confident that we will achieve the target of becoming a developed nation by 2047." > Nitin Gadkari: Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari said the budget will speed up the country's development and increase employment. "Finance Minister's Budget is aimed to strengthen India's economic sector, in line with PM Modi's resolve to make India the third largest economy of the world," he said. > Jyotiraditya Scindia: Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia called the budget historic, adding the country has moved forward. Oppn leaders criticise the Budget Several opposition leaders in the country, including those from the Congress, and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), criticised the interim Budget. Speaking to news agency ANI, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor said, "It was one of the shortest speeches on record in the budget. Not very much came out of it. As usual a lot of rhetorical language, and very little concrete on implementation...She (Nirmala Sitharaman) talked about foreign investment without acknowledging that that investment has come down significantly." #WATCH | On Interim Budget 2024-25, AAP MP Swati Maliwal says, "This is a disappointing budget. Inflation and unemployment are at their peak in the country but there is nothing about it in the budget...It is a disappointing budget for the common people." pic.twitter.com/9Ksu1BZ7AS — ANI (@ANI) February 1, 2024 × Tharoor added that Sitharaman talked about many things which are couched in vague language like 'confidence' and 'hope' and soon. But when it comes to hard figures, very few figures are available, he said. Also read | India interim Budget: "Garib, Mahilayen, Yuva, Annadata", key takeaways from Sitharaman's speech Congress MP Manish Tewari speaking on the budget said, "What's worrying is that there is a budget deficit of Rs 18 lakh crores. This means that the government is borrowing for its expenditure. This number is only going to increase next year." #WATCH | On Interim Budget 2024-25, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor says, "It was one of the shortest speeches on record in the Budget. Not very much came out of it. As usual a lot of rhetorical language, very little concrete on implementation...She talked about foreign investment… pic.twitter.com/x0AhgGSlQ4 — ANI (@ANI) February 1, 2024 × Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said the budget was nothing but to woo people in the upcoming election. "Unfortunately, the finance minister is talking about the achievements of the last ten years. It is a temporary budget. Even then it is not giving any vision...The unemployment position in the country is alarming and nothing is mentioned about this...It is only an eloquent speech made by the finance minister...," Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP) MP NK Premachandran told ANI. Shiromani Akali Dal MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal said the budget was hollow and there was nothing for the country's youth, women and farmers in it. (With inputs from agencies)

India Budget 2024: PM Modi hails interim budget, opposition calls it ‘rhetorical’

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidqVlqo5vVyM1Y" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the interim Budget 2024 on Thursday (Feb 1). The railways ministry was allocated a total of Rs 2.55 lakh crore (2.5 trillion).</p>

<p>In her speech, Finance Minister Sitharaman said that three major economic corridor programmes will be implemented by the government. "These are energy, mineral and cement corridors; port connectivity corridors, and high traffic density corridors," Sitharaman said.</p>

<p>"The projects have been identified under the PM Gati Shakti for enabling multi-modal connectivity. They will improve logistics efficiency and reduce cost," Sitharaman said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-interim-budget-key-takeaways-from-nirmala-sitharamans-budget-speech-685817">India interim Budget 2024: Key takeaways from Nirmala Sitharaman's speech</a></strong></p>

<p>"The resultant decongestion of the high-traffic corridors will also help in improving operations of passenger trains, resulting in safety and higher travel speed for passengers," she added.</p>

<p>The finance minister also said that together with dedicated freight corridors, these three economic corridor programmes will accelerate India's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and reduce logistic costs.</p>

<h2><strong>'40K&nbsp;trains to be converted to Vande Bharat standards'</strong></h2>

<p>During her interim Budget speech, Finance Minister Sitharaman said that 40,000 normal train bogeys will be converted to the Vande Bharat standards to enhance the safety, convenience and comfort of passengers.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | "Railways: Three major Railway economic corridors programmes will be implemented. These are energy, mineral and cement corridor; port connectivity corridors and high traffic density corridors. The projects have been identified under the PM Gati Shakti for enabling… <a href="https://t.co/zD0fJ4vp1R">pic.twitter.com/zD0fJ4vp1R</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1752938833350467850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"We have a fast-expanding middle class, and rapid urbanisation is taking place. Metro and NaMo Bharat can be the catalyst for the required urban transformation," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-budget-2024-fm-sitharaman-tables-interim-budget-says-working-to-viksit-bharat-by-2047-685816">Sitharaman says govt under Modi working towards making country 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047</a></strong></p>

<p>This was Sitharaman's sixth Union Budget. She holds the title for presenting the longest budget speech in terms of duration.</p>

<p>However, this year's speech was the shortest, lasting&nbsp;57 minutes. Her budget speech in 2020 was two hours and 42 minutes long.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened in last year's budget?</strong></h2>

<p>In the previous year's Union Budget, the Modi government allocated a record Rs 2.4 lakh crore to the railways ministry for the financial year 2023-2024. This amount was nine times of what was allocated in FY 2013-14.&nbsp;</p>


Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the interim Budget 2024 on Thursday (Feb 1). The railways ministry was allocated a total of Rs 2.55 lakh crore (2.

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the interim Budget 2024 on Thursday (Feb 1). The railways ministry was allocated a total of Rs 2.55 lakh crore (2.5 trillion). In her speech, Finance Minister Sitharaman said that three major economic corridor programmes will be implemented by the government. "These are energy, mineral and cement corridors; port connectivity corridors, and high traffic density corridors," Sitharaman said. "The projects have been identified under the PM Gati Shakti for enabling multi-modal connectivity. They will improve logistics efficiency and reduce cost," Sitharaman said. Also read | India interim Budget 2024: Key takeaways from Nirmala Sitharaman's speech "The resultant decongestion of the high-traffic corridors will also help in improving operations of passenger trains, resulting in safety and higher travel speed for passengers," she added. The finance minister also said that together with dedicated freight corridors, these three economic corridor programmes will accelerate India's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and reduce logistic costs. '40K trains to be converted to Vande Bharat standards' During her interim Budget speech, Finance Minister Sitharaman said that 40,000 normal train bogeys will be converted to the Vande Bharat standards to enhance the safety, convenience and comfort of passengers. VIDEO | "Railways: Three major Railway economic corridors programmes will be implemented. These are energy, mineral and cement corridor; port connectivity corridors and high traffic density corridors. The projects have been identified under the PM Gati Shakti for enabling… pic.twitter.com/zD0fJ4vp1R — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 1, 2024 × "We have a fast-expanding middle class, and rapid urbanisation is taking place. Metro and NaMo Bharat can be the catalyst for the required urban transformation," she added. Also read | Sitharaman says govt under Modi working towards making country 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047 This was Sitharaman's sixth Union Budget. She holds the title for presenting the longest budget speech in terms of duration. However, this year's speech was the shortest, lasting 57 minutes. Her budget speech in 2020 was two hours and 42 minutes long. What happened in last year's budget? In the previous year's Union Budget, the Modi government allocated a record Rs 2.4 lakh crore to the railways ministry for the financial year 2023-2024. This amount was nine times of what was allocated in FY 2013-14.

India Budget 2024: For railways, FM Sitharaman says 3 major economic corridor programmes to be implemented

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Harshit Sabarwal

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.