British multinational oil and gas company Shell made a record $40 billion profit last year, the highest in its 115-years of existence,&nbsp;as Russia's offensive in Ukraine sent oil and gas prices soaring. According to an earnings statement on Thursday (February 2), the post-tax figure was more than double the amount achieved in 2021. A report by the news agency Reuters said the annual profit was $39.9 billion, far exceeding the previous record of $31 billion in 2008. The gains were driven by higher oil and gas prices, robust refining margins and a strong performance from the company's trading business.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-bank-of-england-hikes-interest-rates-for-tenth-consecutive-time-amid-recession-558265">UK: Bank of England hikes interest rates for tenth consecutive time amid recession</a>

Shell also posted a record fourth-quarter profit of $9.8 billion on the back of a strong recovery in earnings from liquefied natural gas (LNG) trading. "Our results in the fourth quarter and across the full year demonstrate the strength of Shell's differentiated portfolio, as well as our capacity to deliver vital energy to our customers in a volatile world," the company's new chief executive Wael Sawan said in the results statement.&nbsp;

The company now said that it would return a further $4 billion to shareholders following huge buybacks already last year, and would also significantly lift its dividend after the record earnings.&nbsp;

However, on Thursday, Shell faced criticism from environmental campaigners and justice groups for reaping record profits at the expense of the planet.&nbsp;

''(It's) not just obscene but it's also shameless because they are doing..they're reaping those record profits at the expense of people and the planet. Yesterday, hundreds of thousands of people went out on the streets to protest and strike against their low pay and the rising cost of living," Dorothy Guerrero, the head of policy of London-based Global Justice Now, told Reuters on Thursday.&nbsp;

"Yesterday, hundreds of thousands of people went out on the streets to protest and strike against their low pay and the rising cost of living. Me and many of my colleagues also went on the streets to support them. While oil giants like Shell are lining the pockets of their shareholders from these profits that they made," Guerrero added.&nbsp;

The top official at&nbsp;Global Justice Now also said that there was a refusal from the government to impose a windfall tax on oil giants and also to help alleviate those suffering.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Greenpeace, an environmental campaigner, held a protest outside Shell's London headquarters and said the oil giant was "profiteering from climate destruction."

(With inputs from agencies)

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British multinational oil and gas company Shell made a record $40 billion profit last year, the highest in its 115-years of existence, as Russia's offensive in Ukraine sent oil and gas prices soaring.

British multinational oil and gas company Shell made a record $40 billion profit last year, the highest in its 115-years of existence, as Russia's offensive in Ukraine sent oil and gas prices soaring. According to an earnings statement on Thursday (February 2), the post-tax figure was more than double the amount achieved in 2021. A report by the news agency Reuters said the annual profit was $39.9 billion, far exceeding the previous record of $31 billion in 2008. The gains were driven by higher oil and gas prices, robust refining margins and a strong performance from the company's trading business. ALSO READ | UK: Bank of England hikes interest rates for tenth consecutive time amid recession Shell also posted a record fourth-quarter profit of $9.8 billion on the back of a strong recovery in earnings from liquefied natural gas (LNG) trading. "Our results in the fourth quarter and across the full year demonstrate the strength of Shell's differentiated portfolio, as well as our capacity to deliver vital energy to our customers in a volatile world," the company's new chief executive Wael Sawan said in the results statement. The company now said that it would return a further $4 billion to shareholders following huge buybacks already last year, and would also significantly lift its dividend after the record earnings. However, on Thursday, Shell faced criticism from environmental campaigners and justice groups for reaping record profits at the expense of the planet. ''(It's) not just obscene but it's also shameless because they are doing..they're reaping those record profits at the expense of people and the planet. Yesterday, hundreds of thousands of people went out on the streets to protest and strike against their low pay and the rising cost of living," Dorothy Guerrero, the head of policy of London-based Global Justice Now, told Reuters on Thursday. "Yesterday, hundreds of thousands of people went out on the streets to protest and strike against their low pay and the rising cost of living. Me and many of my colleagues also went on the streets to support them. While oil giants like Shell are lining the pockets of their shareholders from these profits that they made," Guerrero added. The top official at Global Justice Now also said that there was a refusal from the government to impose a windfall tax on oil giants and also to help alleviate those suffering. On the other hand, Greenpeace, an environmental campaigner, held a protest outside Shell's London headquarters and said the oil giant was "profiteering from climate destruction." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Shell makes $40 billion profit in 2022, highest in its 115 years of existence

As authorities continue to investigate the death of Tyre Nichols, 29, who died after being thrashed by Memphis Police Department officers, questions have now started raising as why did the police wait for weeks to name a white cop in the beating of the Black man. On Monday (January 30), the police suspended Officer Preston Hemphill, a white man who had joined the police force in 2018. "The Memphis Police Department began administrative investigations on officers involved in the death of Tyre Nichols on January 7, 2023. On January 8, seven officers including Officer Preston Hemphill were relieved of duty," the police department said in a statement.&nbsp;

Apart from Hemphill, three firefighters of the Memphis Fire Department, who responded to the police call, were dismissed after they "failed to conduct an adequate patient assessment" of Nichols at the scene of the assault. According to Major Karen Rudolph of Memphis police, Hemphill was placed on desk duty on January 8, a day after Nichols was thrashed, the Guardian reported on Tuesday (January 31).&nbsp;

The police revealed the names of the five Black officers who were charged with murdering the 29-year-old. However, they waited to reveal Hemphill’s identity. According to Ben Crump, a civil rights attorney representing Nichols’s family, video footage showed Hemphill pulling Nichols from his car before shocking him with a taser gun.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter on Tuesday (January 31), Crump said that Hemphill could be seen violently pulling Nichols from his car while hitting him on the ground with a taser, later saying " I hope they stomp his a**." In a statement, the attorney questioned why Hemphill's identity and the role he played in Tyre's death was just now coming to light.&nbsp;

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“We have asked from the beginning that the Memphis police department be transparent with the family and the community – this news seems to indicate that they haven’t risen to the occasion," the statement said

“It certainly begs the question why the white officer involved in this brutal attack was shielded and protected from the public eye, and to date, from sufficient discipline and accountability,” it added.&nbsp;

A copy of a police report filed hours after the incident mentioned Hemphill used a stun gun on Nichols, the Guardian report said. The report added that a photo of the police report first appeared on social media after being posted by Memphis talk show host Thaddeus Matthews.

Speaking to the New York Times, district attorney Steven Mulroy said that his office had a police report which was the same as the one posted by Matthews. While the footage verifies the report’s description of the white police officer using a stun gun on Nichols, the report omitted the kicks and punches that officers unleashed on the 29-year-old.

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As authorities continue to investigate the death of Tyre Nichols, 29, who died after being thrashed by Memphis Police Department officers, questions have now started raising as why did the police wait for weeks to name a white cop in the beating of the Black man.

As authorities continue to investigate the death of Tyre Nichols, 29, who died after being thrashed by Memphis Police Department officers, questions have now started raising as why did the police wait for weeks to name a white cop in the beating of the Black man. On Monday (January 30), the police suspended Officer Preston Hemphill, a white man who had joined the police force in 2018. "The Memphis Police Department began administrative investigations on officers involved in the death of Tyre Nichols on January 7, 2023. On January 8, seven officers including Officer Preston Hemphill were relieved of duty," the police department said in a statement. Apart from Hemphill, three firefighters of the Memphis Fire Department, who responded to the police call, were dismissed after they "failed to conduct an adequate patient assessment" of Nichols at the scene of the assault. According to Major Karen Rudolph of Memphis police, Hemphill was placed on desk duty on January 8, a day after Nichols was thrashed, the Guardian reported on Tuesday (January 31). The police revealed the names of the five Black officers who were charged with murdering the 29-year-old. However, they waited to reveal Hemphill’s identity. According to Ben Crump, a civil rights attorney representing Nichols’s family, video footage showed Hemphill pulling Nichols from his car before shocking him with a taser gun. Taking to Twitter on Tuesday (January 31), Crump said that Hemphill could be seen violently pulling Nichols from his car while hitting him on the ground with a taser, later saying " I hope they stomp his a**." In a statement, the attorney questioned why Hemphill's identity and the role he played in Tyre's death was just now coming to light. NEWS ALERT: @AttorneyCrump and @TonyRomanucci have issued a statement following the announcement that a sixth officer involved in the traffic stop that led to Tyre’s death has been ‘relived of duty.’ pic.twitter.com/WtY0UGj2sf — Ben Crump Law, PLLC (@BenCrumpLaw) January 30, 2023 × “We have asked from the beginning that the Memphis police department be transparent with the family and the community – this news seems to indicate that they haven’t risen to the occasion," the statement said “It certainly begs the question why the white officer involved in this brutal attack was shielded and protected from the public eye, and to date, from sufficient discipline and accountability,” it added. A copy of a police report filed hours after the incident mentioned Hemphill used a stun gun on Nichols, the Guardian report said. The report added that a photo of the police report first appeared on social media after being posted by Memphis talk show host Thaddeus Matthews. Speaking to the New York Times, district attorney Steven Mulroy said that his office had a police report which was the same as the one posted by Matthews. While the footage verifies the report’s description of the white police officer using a stun gun on Nichols, the report omitted the kicks and punches that officers unleashed on the 29-year-old. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tyre Nichols murder: Questions raised over white cop's delayed suspension from Memphis Police, says report

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Wednesday (February 1) carried out a raid on United States President Joe Biden’s Rehoboth Beach, Delaware home as part of its investigation amidst a row over classified documents being found in his home and think tank. In India, Adani Enterprises called off a record Rs 200 billion ($2.4 billion) share sale late Wednesday. And the Reserve Bank of Australia announced that it will replace the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II from its $5 currency note with a new design that will honour the history of its Indigenous culture.&nbsp;

Click on headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-raids-president-joe-bidens-home-in-delaware-558003">Classified documents probe: FBI raid at Biden’s Delaware home fails to find more classified papers</a>

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The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted a raid on President Joe Biden’s Rehoboth Beach, Delaware home on Wednesday as part of its investigation amidst a row over classified documents being found in his home and think tank, American media reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/adani-calls-off-25-billion-share-sale-even-as-ackman-alleges-fpo-might-be-rigged-558079">Adani calls off $2.5 billion share sale even as Ackman alleges FPO might be 'rigged'</a>

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Adani Enterprises, Gautam Adani's flagship company, called off a record Rs 200 billion ($2.4 billion) share sale late Wednesday. Meanwhile, American billionaire Bill Ackman has said he won't be surprised if the company's $2.25bn follow-on public offering "was rigged."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-wont-carry-king-charless-image-on-new-5-note-558084">Australia won't carry King Charles's image on new $5 note</a>

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Australia has announced that it will replace the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II from its $5 currency note with a new design that will honour the history of its Indigenous culture, the country's central bank said on Thursday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-looking-into-sending-military-aid-to-ukraine-558051">Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says ‘looking into’ sending military aid to Ukraine</a>

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In an interview on Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he is looking at providing military aid to Ukraine and is willing to work as a mediator, following calls made by the United States for more active involvement.

WATCH| UK: Teachers, Civil servants join mass strike, protest over new law

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The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Wednesday (February 1) carried out a raid on United States President Joe Biden’s Rehoboth Beach, Delaware home as part of its investigation amidst a row over classified documents being found in his home and think tank.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Wednesday (February 1) carried out a raid on United States President Joe Biden’s Rehoboth Beach, Delaware home as part of its investigation amidst a row over classified documents being found in his home and think tank. In India, Adani Enterprises called off a record Rs 200 billion ($2.4 billion) share sale late Wednesday. And the Reserve Bank of Australia announced that it will replace the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II from its $5 currency note with a new design that will honour the history of its Indigenous culture. Click on headlines to read more: Classified documents probe: FBI raid at Biden’s Delaware home fails to find more classified papers The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted a raid on President Joe Biden’s Rehoboth Beach, Delaware home on Wednesday as part of its investigation amidst a row over classified documents being found in his home and think tank, American media reported. Adani calls off $2.5 billion share sale even as Ackman alleges FPO might be 'rigged' Adani Enterprises, Gautam Adani's flagship company, called off a record Rs 200 billion ($2.4 billion) share sale late Wednesday. Meanwhile, American billionaire Bill Ackman has said he won't be surprised if the company's $2.25bn follow-on public offering "was rigged." Australia won't carry King Charles's image on new $5 note Australia has announced that it will replace the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II from its $5 currency note with a new design that will honour the history of its Indigenous culture, the country's central bank said on Thursday. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says ‘looking into’ sending military aid to Ukraine In an interview on Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he is looking at providing military aid to Ukraine and is willing to work as a mediator, following calls made by the United States for more active involvement. WATCH| UK: Teachers, Civil servants join mass strike, protest over new law ×

Morning brief: FBI raid at Biden’s Delaware home fails to find more classified papers, & more

Austria's foreign ministry said on Thursday (February 2) that it expelled four Russian diplomats, including two accredited with the United Nations in Vienna. According to a statement, the diplomats have been asked to leave Austria within a week, i.e. by February 8. The foreign ministry said that two diplomats of the Russian embassy engaged in acts incompatible with their diplomatic status. "Therefore, they are declared personae non gratae under Article 9 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations," the statement added.&nbsp;

On the other hand, two diplomats of the Russian Permanent Mission to the UN committed acts which were incompatible with the Headquarters Agreement and they would have to leave Austria, the foreign ministry statement further said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-firm-offers-two-advanced-drones-to-ukraine-for-just-a-dollar-558181">American firm offers two advanced drones to Ukraine for just a dollar</a>

The ministry did not specify what any of these four diplomats had done. However, an official who wished to remain anonymous told news agency Reuters on Thursday that the case involved spying.&nbsp;

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Diplomatic expulsions have been rare in Austria,&nbsp;which enjoyed close relations with Russia before its offensive in Ukraine&nbsp;that will soon complete one year.&nbsp;

In April last year, Austria had expelled four Russian diplomats as part of a coordinated European Union reaction after the discovery of alleged killings of Ukrainian civilians by Moscow in the Kyiv suburb of Bucha, a report by news agency AFP on Thursday said.&nbsp;

And in 2020, a Russian diplomat accused of espionage was expelled. Since this year, Austria has expelled nine Russian diplomats.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-as-the-war-in-ukraine-rages-on-will-2023-be-the-year-of-defence-companies-556570">Explained: As the war in Ukraine rages on, will 2023 be the year of defence companies?</a>

Austria's capital city Vienna has been a major diplomatic centre that hosts the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and organisations of the UN including the International Atomic Energy Agency. Many large countries, including the United States and Russia, have separate ambassadors to Austria, the OSCE and the UN organisations, the Reuters report said.&nbsp;

Vienna also has a reputation for being a den of spies. The extensive diplomatic presence allows stationing intelligence agents there under a diplomatic cover, granting them diplomatic immunity, the report added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Austria's foreign ministry said on Thursday (February 2) that it expelled four Russian diplomats, including two accredited with the United Nations in Vienna. According to a statement, the diplomats have been asked to leave Austria within a week, i.

Austria's foreign ministry said on Thursday (February 2) that it expelled four Russian diplomats, including two accredited with the United Nations in Vienna. According to a statement, the diplomats have been asked to leave Austria within a week, i.e. by February 8. The foreign ministry said that two diplomats of the Russian embassy engaged in acts incompatible with their diplomatic status. "Therefore, they are declared personae non gratae under Article 9 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations," the statement added. On the other hand, two diplomats of the Russian Permanent Mission to the UN committed acts which were incompatible with the Headquarters Agreement and they would have to leave Austria, the foreign ministry statement further said. ALSO READ | American firm offers two advanced drones to Ukraine for just a dollar The ministry did not specify what any of these four diplomats had done. However, an official who wished to remain anonymous told news agency Reuters on Thursday that the case involved spying. Statement of the Austrian Foreign Ministry on four Russian diplomats in Vienna https://t.co/LBmOMNzHeU pic.twitter.com/W0hdqsbP97 — MFA Austria (@MFA_Austria) February 2, 2023 × Diplomatic expulsions have been rare in Austria, which enjoyed close relations with Russia before its offensive in Ukraine that will soon complete one year. In April last year, Austria had expelled four Russian diplomats as part of a coordinated European Union reaction after the discovery of alleged killings of Ukrainian civilians by Moscow in the Kyiv suburb of Bucha, a report by news agency AFP on Thursday said. And in 2020, a Russian diplomat accused of espionage was expelled. Since this year, Austria has expelled nine Russian diplomats. ALSO READ | Explained: As the war in Ukraine rages on, will 2023 be the year of defence companies? Austria's capital city Vienna has been a major diplomatic centre that hosts the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and organisations of the UN including the International Atomic Energy Agency. Many large countries, including the United States and Russia, have separate ambassadors to Austria, the OSCE and the UN organisations, the Reuters report said. Vienna also has a reputation for being a den of spies. The extensive diplomatic presence allows stationing intelligence agents there under a diplomatic cover, granting them diplomatic immunity, the report added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Austria expels four Russian diplomats, asks them to leave within a week

The seven-party ruling alliance in Nepal is witnessing a tussle over the appointment of the country's president and home minister. According to local media reports on Thursday (February 2), there are differences between the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) and the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist) on the appointments on the twin positions and they have pushed the alliance on the verge of collapse.&nbsp;

Earlier, the CPN(MC) and CPN(UML) had reached an informal understanding to elect the latter's candidate as the new president of Nepal. However, the CPN(MC) has already announced a national consensus on the new presidential candidate. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, who became the PM with the support of the CPN (UML) on the basis of the same understanding, is now opposed to the idea.

Dahal maintained that the CPN (UML) already has its candidate elected as speaker of the house of representatives.

The differences have cropped up after the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), one of the ruling alliance partners, threatened to pull out of the government if it was not allocated the home ministry. A report by the Indian Narrative on Monday (January 30) said that RSP's chairman Rabi Lamichhane met with Prime Minister Dahal to convey that his party will be forced to quit the government if it doesn't get the home ministry.&nbsp;

So far, the home portfolio is vacant and speculations have been rife that Dahal will appoint someone else from his party as Nepal's home minister.&nbsp;

Nearly a week back, Rabi Lamichhane was sacked as the home minister for failing to regain citizenship after giving up his US passport. Lamichhane was the deputy prime minister besides the home affairs portfolio.&nbsp;

On January 27, Nepal's Supreme Court said the 48-year-old had contested the November elections on an invalid citizenship certificate after abandoning his US citizenship. Speaking to reporters, lawyer Sunil Pokhrel said, "He (Rabi Lamicchane) loses his ministerial position and there will be a by-election in his constituency."

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The seven-party ruling alliance in Nepal is witnessing a tussle over the appointment of the country's president and home minister. According to local media reports on Thursday (February 2), there are differences between the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) and the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist) on the appointments on the twin positions and they have pushed the alliance on the verge of collapse.

The seven-party ruling alliance in Nepal is witnessing a tussle over the appointment of the country's president and home minister. According to local media reports on Thursday (February 2), there are differences between the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) and the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist) on the appointments on the twin positions and they have pushed the alliance on the verge of collapse. Earlier, the CPN(MC) and CPN(UML) had reached an informal understanding to elect the latter's candidate as the new president of Nepal. However, the CPN(MC) has already announced a national consensus on the new presidential candidate. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, who became the PM with the support of the CPN (UML) on the basis of the same understanding, is now opposed to the idea. Dahal maintained that the CPN (UML) already has its candidate elected as speaker of the house of representatives. The differences have cropped up after the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), one of the ruling alliance partners, threatened to pull out of the government if it was not allocated the home ministry. A report by the Indian Narrative on Monday (January 30) said that RSP's chairman Rabi Lamichhane met with Prime Minister Dahal to convey that his party will be forced to quit the government if it doesn't get the home ministry. So far, the home portfolio is vacant and speculations have been rife that Dahal will appoint someone else from his party as Nepal's home minister. Nearly a week back, Rabi Lamichhane was sacked as the home minister for failing to regain citizenship after giving up his US passport. Lamichhane was the deputy prime minister besides the home affairs portfolio. On January 27, Nepal's Supreme Court said the 48-year-old had contested the November elections on an invalid citizenship certificate after abandoning his US citizenship. Speaking to reporters, lawyer Sunil Pokhrel said, "He (Rabi Lamicchane) loses his ministerial position and there will be a by-election in his constituency." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Political crisis in Nepal? Tussle in ruling alliance over appointment of president, home minister

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, a leading maker of advanced military surveillance drones in the United States, said on Wednesday (February 1) that it was willing to sell two such drones to war-hit Ukraine for just $1. The company said that it has been urging the US government for months to provide Ukraine with its Grey Eagle and Reaper drones, which the American defence forces have used to great effect in surveillance and targeted attacks over Afghanistan, Syria and other conflict zones, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

General Atomics said the drones, which can fly long distances at mid-altitudes, were&nbsp;one of the most obvious, force-enhancing technologies that Ukraine needed&nbsp;in its war against Russia. According to a statement, the company's chief executive Linden Blue said, "From the outset of the Russian invasion, we began looking for options to respond to the requests of Ukrainian forces with our products, including the MQ-9 Reaper and MQ-1C Gray Eagle."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-looking-into-sending-military-aid-to-ukraine-558051">Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says ‘looking into’ sending military aid to Ukraine</a>

Blue said that General Atomics even offered to train Ukrainian operators at no cost to the US or Ukrainian governments. The company was ready to hand over two of its own training aircraft, along with a ground control station and other hardware, for just a dollar.&nbsp;

Linden Blue said in the statement that Ukraine or someone else would have to pay for outfitting and transferring the aircraft and setting up the operation to put them in the air over the battlefield. He pointed out that the offer was a remarkable deal with no strings attached and all that was required was approval from the US government.&nbsp;

"From our perspective, it is long past time to enable Ukrainian forces with the information dominance required to win this war," Blue further said in the statement.&nbsp;

Recently, the United States, which has emerged as the biggest supporter of Ukraine in terms of providing military equipment, announced that it would provide Kyiv with 31 M1 Abrams tanks. This comes after Germany confirmed it would send 14 Leopard 2A6 tanks to the war-hit country.

In the latest news on the Ukraine war, a Russian missile struck a residential building in&nbsp;Kramatorsk, killing at least three people. Rescuers on Thursday searched for survivors to pull them out of the debris. Donetsk regional police said paramedics, search-and-rescue dogs, and explosive experts were combing the area as they believed that more people could be trapped, AFP reported on Thursday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-as-the-war-in-ukraine-rages-on-will-2023-be-the-year-of-defence-companies-556570">Explained: As the war in Ukraine rages on, will 2023 be the year of defence companies?</a>

On Friday, a Ukraine-European Union summit would take place in Kyiv with Prime Minister Denys Shmygal saying on Tuesday that the event is "extremely important" for Kyiv's bid to join the European bloc. "The fact that this summit will be held in Kyiv is a powerful signal to both partners and enemies," Shmygal told a government meeting.&nbsp;

On Thursday, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen arrived in Kyiv accompanied by 15 commissioners. "Good to be back in Kyiv, my 4th time since Russia's invasion... We are here together to show that the EU stands by Ukraine as firmly as ever. And to deepen further our support and cooperation," she tweeted.

(With inputs from agencies)

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General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, a leading maker of advanced military surveillance drones in the United States, said on Wednesday (February 1) that it was willing to sell two such drones to war-hit Ukraine for just $1.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, a leading maker of advanced military surveillance drones in the United States, said on Wednesday (February 1) that it was willing to sell two such drones to war-hit Ukraine for just $1. The company said that it has been urging the US government for months to provide Ukraine with its Grey Eagle and Reaper drones, which the American defence forces have used to great effect in surveillance and targeted attacks over Afghanistan, Syria and other conflict zones, news agency AFP reported. General Atomics said the drones, which can fly long distances at mid-altitudes, were one of the most obvious, force-enhancing technologies that Ukraine needed in its war against Russia. According to a statement, the company's chief executive Linden Blue said, "From the outset of the Russian invasion, we began looking for options to respond to the requests of Ukrainian forces with our products, including the MQ-9 Reaper and MQ-1C Gray Eagle." ALSO READ | Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says ‘looking into’ sending military aid to Ukraine Blue said that General Atomics even offered to train Ukrainian operators at no cost to the US or Ukrainian governments. The company was ready to hand over two of its own training aircraft, along with a ground control station and other hardware, for just a dollar. Linden Blue said in the statement that Ukraine or someone else would have to pay for outfitting and transferring the aircraft and setting up the operation to put them in the air over the battlefield. He pointed out that the offer was a remarkable deal with no strings attached and all that was required was approval from the US government. "From our perspective, it is long past time to enable Ukrainian forces with the information dominance required to win this war," Blue further said in the statement. Recently, the United States, which has emerged as the biggest supporter of Ukraine in terms of providing military equipment, announced that it would provide Kyiv with 31 M1 Abrams tanks. This comes after Germany confirmed it would send 14 Leopard 2A6 tanks to the war-hit country. In the latest news on the Ukraine war, a Russian missile struck a residential building in Kramatorsk, killing at least three people. Rescuers on Thursday searched for survivors to pull them out of the debris. Donetsk regional police said paramedics, search-and-rescue dogs, and explosive experts were combing the area as they believed that more people could be trapped, AFP reported on Thursday. ALSO READ | Explained: As the war in Ukraine rages on, will 2023 be the year of defence companies? On Friday, a Ukraine-European Union summit would take place in Kyiv with Prime Minister Denys Shmygal saying on Tuesday that the event is "extremely important" for Kyiv's bid to join the European bloc. "The fact that this summit will be held in Kyiv is a powerful signal to both partners and enemies," Shmygal told a government meeting. On Thursday, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen arrived in Kyiv accompanied by 15 commissioners. "Good to be back in Kyiv, my 4th time since Russia's invasion... We are here together to show that the EU stands by Ukraine as firmly as ever. And to deepen further our support and cooperation," she tweeted. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

American firm offers two advanced drones to Ukraine for just a dollar

Over a million worshippers turned out for a papal mass in DR Congo's capital Wednesday, organisers said, on the second day of&nbsp;Pope&nbsp;Francis's visit to the conflict-torn country.&nbsp;

Many of the faithful in Kinshasa, a deeply observant megacity of some 15 million people, began to arrive at Ndolo airport on Tuesday night to assure themselves of a spot.&nbsp;

Francis entered the airport grounds aboard his popemobile and was greeted by singing and dancing crowds before the mass began at around 9:30 am (0830 GMT).&nbsp;

Organisers said that over one million people were on the airport tarmac.&nbsp;

Adrien Louka, 55,&nbsp;told AFP he had arrived before dawn. &nbsp;

"As our country has many problems, it is reconciliation that we are looking for and the&nbsp;Pope&nbsp;will give a message so that the countries around us leave us in peace," he added.

The attendees included Kinshasa residents as well as the Democratic Republic of Congo's president, Felix Tshisekedi, and leading opposition politicians.

Francis wished the crowd peace in Lingala, one of the DRC's four national languages and the everyday language of Kinshasa.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Pope&nbsp;delivered the rest of his homily in Italian -- which was translated into the DRC's official language French -- in which he urged the faithful "not to give in to divisions."

The 86-year-old pontiff had arrived in the DRC on Tuesday, on the first leg of a six-day trip to Africa that will also include troubled South Sudan.

Huge crowds had also thronged the streets for a glimpse of the popemobile as Francis drove past.&nbsp;

&nbsp;'Massively plundered'

A former Belgian colony the size of continental western Europe, the DRC is Africa's most Catholic country.&nbsp;

About 40 percent of the population of some 100 million people follows the church of Rome, according to estimates.&nbsp;

Another 35 percent of the population is Protestant of various denominations, nine percent is Muslim and 10 percent Kimbanguist --&nbsp;a Christian movement born in the Belgian Congo.&nbsp;

Official Vatican statistics put the proportion of Catholics in the DRC at 49 percent of the population.

During a speech to politicians and dignitaries in Kinshasa's presidential palace on Tuesday, Francis denounced the "economic colonialism" he suggested had wreaked lasting damage in the DRC.

"This country, massively plundered, has not benefited adequately from its immense resources," he said, to applause.

Despite abundant mineral reserves, the DRC is one of the poorest countries in the world. About two-thirds of Congolese people live on less than $2.15 a day, according to the World Bank.&nbsp;

Meeting conflict victims

Francis is also due to meet victims of the conflict in eastern Congo in Kinshasa on Wednesday following the mega-mass.&nbsp;

After that, he will talk to representatives from charitable organisations.

The DRC's east has long been plagued by dozens of armed groups. Since late 2021, M23 rebels have also captured swathes of territory in North Kivu province, coming close to its capital Goma.&nbsp;

The trip to DRC and South Sudan had originally been planned for July 2022, but it was postponed due to the pontiff's knee pain that has forced him in recent months to use a wheelchair.&nbsp;

Security concerns were also said to play a role in delaying the trip, and a stop in Goma -- a city of over a million people on the border with Rwanda -- is no longer on the itinerary.

"I would have liked to go to Goma too, but with the war, you can't go there," Francis told reporters on the plane from Rome.

The Argentine pontiff, in his speech in Kinshasa on Tuesday, urged the need to address the conflict and said he supported regional peace efforts.&nbsp;

Francis also underlined the need for investment in education, and free-and-fair elections, among other issues.&nbsp;

On Friday, the Pope&nbsp;travels to South Sudan's capital Juba.

This visit is Francis's 40th foreign trip since being elected in 2013.&nbsp;

Over a million worshippers turned out for a papal mass in DR Congo's capital Wednesday, organisers said, on the second day of Pope Francis's visit to the conflict-torn country.

Over a million worshippers turned out for a papal mass in DR Congo's capital Wednesday, organisers said, on the second day of Pope Francis's visit to the conflict-torn country. Many of the faithful in Kinshasa, a deeply observant megacity of some 15 million people, began to arrive at Ndolo airport on Tuesday night to assure themselves of a spot. Francis entered the airport grounds aboard his popemobile and was greeted by singing and dancing crowds before the mass began at around 9:30 am (0830 GMT). Organisers said that over one million people were on the airport tarmac. Adrien Louka, 55, told AFP he had arrived before dawn. "As our country has many problems, it is reconciliation that we are looking for and the Pope will give a message so that the countries around us leave us in peace," he added. The attendees included Kinshasa residents as well as the Democratic Republic of Congo's president, Felix Tshisekedi, and leading opposition politicians. Francis wished the crowd peace in Lingala, one of the DRC's four national languages and the everyday language of Kinshasa. The Pope delivered the rest of his homily in Italian -- which was translated into the DRC's official language French -- in which he urged the faithful "not to give in to divisions." The 86-year-old pontiff had arrived in the DRC on Tuesday, on the first leg of a six-day trip to Africa that will also include troubled South Sudan. Huge crowds had also thronged the streets for a glimpse of the popemobile as Francis drove past. 'Massively plundered' A former Belgian colony the size of continental western Europe, the DRC is Africa's most Catholic country. About 40 percent of the population of some 100 million people follows the church of Rome, according to estimates. Another 35 percent of the population is Protestant of various denominations, nine percent is Muslim and 10 percent Kimbanguist -- a Christian movement born in the Belgian Congo. Official Vatican statistics put the proportion of Catholics in the DRC at 49 percent of the population. During a speech to politicians and dignitaries in Kinshasa's presidential palace on Tuesday, Francis denounced the "economic colonialism" he suggested had wreaked lasting damage in the DRC. "This country, massively plundered, has not benefited adequately from its immense resources," he said, to applause. Despite abundant mineral reserves, the DRC is one of the poorest countries in the world. About two-thirds of Congolese people live on less than $2.15 a day, according to the World Bank. Meeting conflict victims Francis is also due to meet victims of the conflict in eastern Congo in Kinshasa on Wednesday following the mega-mass. After that, he will talk to representatives from charitable organisations. The DRC's east has long been plagued by dozens of armed groups. Since late 2021, M23 rebels have also captured swathes of territory in North Kivu province, coming close to its capital Goma. The trip to DRC and South Sudan had originally been planned for July 2022, but it was postponed due to the pontiff's knee pain that has forced him in recent months to use a wheelchair. Security concerns were also said to play a role in delaying the trip, and a stop in Goma -- a city of over a million people on the border with Rwanda -- is no longer on the itinerary. "I would have liked to go to Goma too, but with the war, you can't go there," Francis told reporters on the plane from Rome. The Argentine pontiff, in his speech in Kinshasa on Tuesday, urged the need to address the conflict and said he supported regional peace efforts. Francis also underlined the need for investment in education, and free-and-fair elections, among other issues. On Friday, the Pope travels to South Sudan's capital Juba. This visit is Francis's 40th foreign trip since being elected in 2013.

One million faithful attend Pope's mass in DR Congo capital

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) struck in Gaza Strip early Thursday (February 2), hours <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-army-confirms-it-intercepted-rocket-fired-from-gaza-strip-558033">after it had intercepted a rocket fired from Gaza</a> towards Israel. Taking to Twitter, the IDF said its fighter jets struck a production site for raw chemical material production, along with a weapon manufacturing site belonging to Hamas. "The IDF holds Hamas responsible for all terrorism activity emanating from Gaza and it will face the consequences of the security violations against Israel," the IDF said in a subsequent tweet.&nbsp;

There were no casualties reported on either side. A report by the news agency Reuters on Thursday said that videos from the Israeli army showed its airstrikes targeted rocket and weapon production sites used by Hamas. The explosions shook buildings and lit up the night sky over Gaza. Nobody has claimed responsibility for Wednesday's rocket launch.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-guards-kill-teen-palestinian-in-west-bank-jenin-raid-death-toll-climbs-to-10-557069">Israeli guards kill teen Palestinian in West Bank; Jenin raid death toll climbs to 10</a>

Meanwhile, the armed wing of the leftist Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine said it launched rocket salvos at Israel early on Thursday in response to the air strikes by the IDF.&nbsp;

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This exchange of fire comes as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has further intensified over the mass shooting at a synagogue in East Jerusalem which killed seven, an Israeli raid in the Jenin refugee camp in West Bank that killed 10 Palestinians and a cross-border rocket fire from the Gaza Strip in retaliation to the raid.

Last year, around 235 people were killed in the conflict, with nearly 90 per cent of the casualties on the Palestinian side, a report by the news agency AFP said. In January alone, Israeli forces killed 35 Palestinians, including attackers, militants and civilians, the report added.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the United States Secretary of States Antony Blinken, who was on a tour of the Middle East, urged both sides (Israel and Palestine) to prevent further bloodshed, as he expressed sorrow for innocent Palestinians killed in months of spiralling violence in the West Bank. &nbsp;

Blinken held talks with Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas in the West Bank city of Ramallah, following meetings with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other cabinet ministers. "What we're seeing now for Palestinians is a shrinking horizon of hope, not an expanding one, and that too, we believe, needs to change," the top Washington diplomat said in Ramallah.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) struck in Gaza Strip early Thursday (February 2), hours after it had intercepted a rocket fired from Gaza towards Israel. Taking to Twitter, the IDF said its fighter jets struck a production site for raw chemical material production, along with a weapon manufacturing site belonging to Hamas.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) struck in Gaza Strip early Thursday (February 2), hours after it had intercepted a rocket fired from Gaza towards Israel. Taking to Twitter, the IDF said its fighter jets struck a production site for raw chemical material production, along with a weapon manufacturing site belonging to Hamas. "The IDF holds Hamas responsible for all terrorism activity emanating from Gaza and it will face the consequences of the security violations against Israel," the IDF said in a subsequent tweet. There were no casualties reported on either side. A report by the news agency Reuters on Thursday said that videos from the Israeli army showed its airstrikes targeted rocket and weapon production sites used by Hamas. The explosions shook buildings and lit up the night sky over Gaza. Nobody has claimed responsibility for Wednesday's rocket launch. ALSO READ | Israeli guards kill teen Palestinian in West Bank; Jenin raid death toll climbs to 10 Meanwhile, the armed wing of the leftist Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine said it launched rocket salvos at Israel early on Thursday in response to the air strikes by the IDF. The IDF holds Hamas responsible for all terrorism activity emanating from Gaza and it will face the consequences of the security violations against Israel. 2/2 — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) February 2, 2023 × This exchange of fire comes as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has further intensified over the mass shooting at a synagogue in East Jerusalem which killed seven, an Israeli raid in the Jenin refugee camp in West Bank that killed 10 Palestinians and a cross-border rocket fire from the Gaza Strip in retaliation to the raid. Last year, around 235 people were killed in the conflict, with nearly 90 per cent of the casualties on the Palestinian side, a report by the news agency AFP said. In January alone, Israeli forces killed 35 Palestinians, including attackers, militants and civilians, the report added. On Tuesday, the United States Secretary of States Antony Blinken, who was on a tour of the Middle East, urged both sides (Israel and Palestine) to prevent further bloodshed, as he expressed sorrow for innocent Palestinians killed in months of spiralling violence in the West Bank. Blinken held talks with Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas in the West Bank city of Ramallah, following meetings with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other cabinet ministers. "What we're seeing now for Palestinians is a shrinking horizon of hope, not an expanding one, and that too, we believe, needs to change," the top Washington diplomat said in Ramallah. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel jets strike Hamas facility in Gaza Strip hours after intercepting fired rocket

A burglary was reported in a court in the Indian state of Goa. A police officer said on Wednesday (February 1) that a thief allegedly entered the evidence room of the Judicial Magistrate First Class court in Goa's capital city of Panaji and fled with cash, the news agency IANS reported. "We have some leads... we are working on it. We are ascertaining the motive of the accused," North Goa Superintendent of Police Nidhin Valsan said.

Valsan said the suspect was someone who was well versed with the functioning of the court, adding there was no forced entry.&nbsp;

"CCTV footage suggests that it happened yesterday (Tuesday) evening. We think the suspect stayed back (after office hours) and went to the place where the old property cases (documents) have been kept. It implies the suspect was aware about these things," Valsan said. He added the suspect stole the new currency notes and not the old ones (before demonetisation).&nbsp;

The police officer also said that cops were ascertaining along with court authorities whether gold ornaments were also stolen. Citing the police, the IANS report said primarily it looked like the suspect wanted to steal valuables and documents. However, the police were probing the theft case from all angles including whether the suspect was keen to steal any court documents related to any case.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A burglary was reported in a court in the Indian state of Goa. A police officer said on Wednesday (February 1) that a thief allegedly entered the evidence room of the Judicial Magistrate First Class court in Goa's capital city of Panaji and fled with cash, the news agency IANS reported.

A burglary was reported in a court in the Indian state of Goa. A police officer said on Wednesday (February 1) that a thief allegedly entered the evidence room of the Judicial Magistrate First Class court in Goa's capital city of Panaji and fled with cash, the news agency IANS reported. "We have some leads... we are working on it. We are ascertaining the motive of the accused," North Goa Superintendent of Police Nidhin Valsan said. Valsan said the suspect was someone who was well versed with the functioning of the court, adding there was no forced entry. "CCTV footage suggests that it happened yesterday (Tuesday) evening. We think the suspect stayed back (after office hours) and went to the place where the old property cases (documents) have been kept. It implies the suspect was aware about these things," Valsan said. He added the suspect stole the new currency notes and not the old ones (before demonetisation). The police officer also said that cops were ascertaining along with court authorities whether gold ornaments were also stolen. Citing the police, the IANS report said primarily it looked like the suspect wanted to steal valuables and documents. However, the police were probing the theft case from all angles including whether the suspect was keen to steal any court documents related to any case. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Burglary reported in court in Goa, cash stolen

The police in Germany arrested a Serbian man on Tuesday (January 31), who was suspected of killing two elderly women near the Schwäbisch Hall. Addressing a press conference, authorities in the southwestern state of Baden-Württemberg said on Wednesday that the suspect was taken into custody. According to the investigators, the man, 31, had moved to Germany with his family in December last year, a report by the Deutsche Welle said.&nbsp;

The Serbian national has been suspected of killing a 77-year-old woman in December last year and an 89-year-old woman in January in the Schwäbisch Hall region. During the investigation, authorities recovered objects used in the crime and DNA traces tied to the suspect, the report said.&nbsp;

Investigators believe he was behind a recent attempted armed robbery against an 83-year-old man. "We were able to arrest a 31-year-old Serbian citizen yesterday morning," regional police chief Reiner Moelle told news agency AFP. "He has declined to answer questions about the crimes," Moelle added.&nbsp;

A report on Wednesday said that special forces were deployed to arrest the man, who showed no resistance. Authorities are also investigating whether he had a role to play in the murder of a 94-year-old woman, whose body was found in Schwäbisch Hall in October 2020 close to the apartment of the deceased 77-year-old woman, the report added.&nbsp;Further details are awaited.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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The police in Germany arrested a Serbian man on Tuesday (January 31), who was suspected of killing two elderly women near the Schwäbisch Hall. Addressing a press conference, authorities in the southwestern state of Baden-Württemberg said on Wednesday that the suspect was taken into custody.

The police in Germany arrested a Serbian man on Tuesday (January 31), who was suspected of killing two elderly women near the Schwäbisch Hall. Addressing a press conference, authorities in the southwestern state of Baden-Württemberg said on Wednesday that the suspect was taken into custody. According to the investigators, the man, 31, had moved to Germany with his family in December last year, a report by the Deutsche Welle said. The Serbian national has been suspected of killing a 77-year-old woman in December last year and an 89-year-old woman in January in the Schwäbisch Hall region. During the investigation, authorities recovered objects used in the crime and DNA traces tied to the suspect, the report said. Investigators believe he was behind a recent attempted armed robbery against an 83-year-old man. "We were able to arrest a 31-year-old Serbian citizen yesterday morning," regional police chief Reiner Moelle told news agency AFP. "He has declined to answer questions about the crimes," Moelle added. A report on Wednesday said that special forces were deployed to arrest the man, who showed no resistance. Authorities are also investigating whether he had a role to play in the murder of a 94-year-old woman, whose body was found in Schwäbisch Hall in October 2020 close to the apartment of the deceased 77-year-old woman, the report added. Further details are awaited. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Germany: Police arrest Serbian national suspected of killing two elderly women

Indian finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday (February 7) presented the Union Budget 2023-24 in the Parliament and listed the government's seven priorities for the budget.

Indian finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday (February 7) presented the Union Budget 2023-24 in the Parliament and listed the government's seven priorities for the budget. Addressing the Lok Sabha, finance minister Sitharaman said that these seven priorities complement each other. "Inclusive development, reaching the last mile, infrastructure and investment, unleashing the potential, green growth, youth and financial sector," she said. ALSO READ | Indian Union Budget 2023-24: Key highlights Here are the priorities listed by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman: 1) Inclusive development: For Agricultural and Cooperatives: > Building digital public infrastructure > Setting up an agriculture accelerator fund > Atmanirbhar Bharat Horticulture Clean Plant programme to be launched. > Targeted funding > Making India a global hub for millets > Setting up of widely available storage capacity For Health: > As many as 157 new nursing colleges are to be established > Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission to be launched > New programme to promote research in pharmaceuticals to be launched > Joint public and private medical research to be encouraged via labs of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) For Education and Skilling: > Revamped Teachers' training via District Institutes of Education and Training > National Digital Library to be set up for children and adolescents > States will be encouraged to set up physical libraries at panchayat and ward levels Few other crucial factors under Inclusive development > Nine crore drinking water connections to rural houses > Cash transfer of Rs 2.2 lakh crore to over 11.4 crore farmers under the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme 2) Reaching the last mile: > Pradhan Mantri Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) Development Mission to be launched > Financial assistance to be given for sustainable micro irrigation in drought-prone regions of Karnataka > More teachers to be recruited for 740 Eklavya Model Residential Schools > Shared Repository of Inscriptions (SHRI) to be set up for digitisation of ancient inscriptions ALSO READ | India Budget 2023: New Delhi's G20 presidency a 'unique opportunity', says Nirmala Sitharaman 3) Infrastructure and investment: > Increased capital expenditure outlay by 33.4 per cent to Rs 10 lakh crore > Continuation of 50-year-interest free loans to state governments to incentivise infrastructure investment > As many as 100 transport infrastructure projects identified for end-to-end connectivity for ports, coal, steel, and fertiliser sectors. > Creating urban infrastructure in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities via the establishment of the Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF) 4) Unleashing the potential > Make Artificial Intelligence (AI) work for India by setting up centres of excellence > National Data Governance policy to be introduced > Less stringent contract execution for Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) > Easier and standardised settlement scheme > Third phase of E-Courts to be launched > Entity Digi Locker to be set up for use by business enterprises and charitable trusts > Setting up 100 labs for 5G services-based application development > R&D grant for Lab Grown Diamonds (LGD) sector 5) Green growth > PM Programme for Restoration, Awareness, Nourishment and Amelioration of Mother Earth to be launched. > Sustainable ecosystem development > 500 new Waste to Wealth plants Few other crucial factors under green growth > Promotion of battery energy storage systems > Setting up 10,000 bio-inputs resource centres to facilitate farmers to adopt natural farming > Promotion of coastal shipping for energy-efficient transportation > Funds to be allocated for replacing old polluting vehicles 6) Youth power > Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) 4.0 to be launched Will cover new courses such as coding, robotics, AI and 3D printing etc. > Measures to boost the tourism sector At least 50 destinations to be selected, through challenge mode, to be developed as a complete package for domestic and foreign tourists > States to be encouraged to set up Unity Malls ALSO READ | Union Budget 2023-24: Sitharaman's 5 announcements on personal income tax 7) Financial sector > Setting up of National Financial Information registry > Setting up of Central Data processing centre > Credit Guarantee scheme for MSMEs > Mahila Samman Bachat Patra > Benefits for senior citizens Fiscal Management > 50-year interest-free loans to states > Fiscal deficit of 3.5 per cent of GSDP allowed for states > Fiscal consolidation Targeted Fiscal Deficit to be below 4.5% by 2025-26 Tax Proposals > Simplification in indirect taxes > Changes to custom duty on import of capital goods for Li-ion battery manufacturing; import of mobile camera lens; denatured ethyl alcohol; key inputs for producing shrimp feed; seeds for manufacturing lab-grown diamonds; continuing concessional basic customs duty on copper scrap; and compounded rubber to bring it at par with natural rubber. Simplifying personal income tax > In the new tax regime, the income limit for the rebate of income tax increased from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 7 lakh > Highest surcharge rate on income above Rs 5 crore will be reduced from 37% to 25% (under the new tax regime). > Extending benefits of the standard deduction to the new regime for salaried class and pensioners > Increasing tax exemption limit to Rs 25 lakh on leave encashment on retirement for non-government salaried employees Simplifying tax benefits for industries: For MSMEs: > Enhanced limits for micro-enterprises and professionals to avail benefits of presumptive taxation; 95% receipts to be non-cash > Deduction on payments made to MSMEs will be allowed only when the payment is actually made For cooperatives: > Extending 15% corporate tax benefits to new cooperatives, commencing manufacturing till March 31, 2024. > Higher limit of Rs 2 lakh per member for deposits and loans in cash by Primary Agricultural Co-operative Societies (PACS) and Primary Co-operative Agriculture and Rural Development Banks (PCARDBs) > Higher limit of Rs 3 crore for TDS on cash withdrawal for co-operative societies For startups: > Extension of date of incorporation by one year for income tax benefits to start-ups > Benefit of carry forward of losses on change of shareholding of start-ups from seven years of incorporation to ten years. 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An earthquake of 6.0 magnitude struck the southern Philippines on Wednesday (February 1), according to the US Geological Service. The earthquake struck at 1044 GMT near the &nbsp;Monkayo municipality in Davao de Oro province on Mindanao island. There were no immediate reports of any major damage. Speaking to the news agency AFP, Monkayo police Staff Sergeant Harvey Asayas said the quake was strong at the beginning but gradually weakened and stopped after 40 seconds.&nbsp;

Asayas added that authorities were conducting patrols around to assess the damage.

In the nearby municipality of New Bataan, Police Corporal Lucita Ambrocio told the news agency that the earthquake was quick. "After 10 minutes, our colleagues went back to the building. I checked the premises and I saw a small crack in the barracks," Ambrocio said.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Maricar Melgar from the Montevista municipality said the quake was so strong she feared the building that she was in would collapse. Melgar said this was probably the strongest earthquake that she experienced.

In Tagum city, about 40 kilometres southwest of the epicentre, residents fled their houses. "We were eating when (the house) began to shake -- it was strong. We ran outside -- we had to take safety measures. We did not see any damage inside the house when we got back," Grace Jao told the news agency.&nbsp;

The Philippines witnesses earthquakes daily as the country sits along the Pacific "Ring of Fire."

Previously, the Philippines was rocked by a 6.4-magnitude earthquake in Dolores in Abra province in October last year, injuring several people, cutting power to most of the region and damaging buildings. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 15.2 kilometres (9.4 miles). Its impact was felt as far away as the capital Manila, more than 330 kilometres to the south.

In July 2022, a 7.0-magnitude earthquake in mountainous Abra last July triggered landslides and ground fissures, killing 11 people and injuring hundreds.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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An earthquake of 6.0 magnitude struck the southern Philippines on Wednesday (February 1), according to the US Geological Service. The earthquake struck at 1044 GMT near the Monkayo municipality in Davao de Oro province on Mindanao island.

An earthquake of 6.0 magnitude struck the southern Philippines on Wednesday (February 1), according to the US Geological Service. The earthquake struck at 1044 GMT near the Monkayo municipality in Davao de Oro province on Mindanao island. There were no immediate reports of any major damage. Speaking to the news agency AFP, Monkayo police Staff Sergeant Harvey Asayas said the quake was strong at the beginning but gradually weakened and stopped after 40 seconds. Asayas added that authorities were conducting patrols around to assess the damage. In the nearby municipality of New Bataan, Police Corporal Lucita Ambrocio told the news agency that the earthquake was quick. "After 10 minutes, our colleagues went back to the building. I checked the premises and I saw a small crack in the barracks," Ambrocio said. On the other hand, Maricar Melgar from the Montevista municipality said the quake was so strong she feared the building that she was in would collapse. Melgar said this was probably the strongest earthquake that she experienced. In Tagum city, about 40 kilometres southwest of the epicentre, residents fled their houses. "We were eating when (the house) began to shake -- it was strong. We ran outside -- we had to take safety measures. We did not see any damage inside the house when we got back," Grace Jao told the news agency. The Philippines witnesses earthquakes daily as the country sits along the Pacific "Ring of Fire." Previously, the Philippines was rocked by a 6.4-magnitude earthquake in Dolores in Abra province in October last year, injuring several people, cutting power to most of the region and damaging buildings. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 15.2 kilometres (9.4 miles). Its impact was felt as far away as the capital Manila, more than 330 kilometres to the south. In July 2022, a 7.0-magnitude earthquake in mountainous Abra last July triggered landslides and ground fissures, killing 11 people and injuring hundreds. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Earthquake of 6.0-magnitude hits southern Philippines, no reports of major damage

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Harshit Sabarwal

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