<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-60-still-missing-after-beirut-massive-explosion-health-ministry-319061">More than 60 still missing after Beirut massive explosion: Health ministry</a>

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Four days after a massive explosion at the port in Beirut left more than 150 people dead, more than&nbsp;60 people are still missing, a health ministry official said Saturday. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-60-still-missing-after-beirut-massive-explosion-health-ministry-319061">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanons-hezbollah-leader-denies-storing-arms-at-beirut-blast-site-318967" hreflang="en">Lebanon's Hezbollah leader denies storing arms at Beirut blast site</a>

<img alt="Hassan Nasrallah" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="646ceaa8-4270-4b39-bb04-60261db5758f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2220366-327562349.jpg" />

Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah has denied the involvement of his powerful Shiite movement in the Beirut explosion that killed more than 150 people. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanons-hezbollah-leader-denies-storing-arms-at-beirut-blast-site-318967">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-in-air-india-plane-crash-rises-to-at-least-18-relief-work-underway-318970">Death toll in Air India plane crash rises to at least 18; relief work underway</a>

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The death toll in the Kozhikode plane crash has risen&nbsp;to at least 18, the Air India Express said on Saturday. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-in-air-india-plane-crash-rises-to-at-least-18-relief-work-underway-318970">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-france-quit-who-reform-talks-amid-tension-with-washington-319067" hreflang="en">Germany, France quit WHO reform talks amid tension with Washington</a>

<img alt="France and Germany" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="29faaf4b-650b-4018-9b69-962cb2abfb7b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_144.jpg" />

France and Germany have quit talks on reforming the World Health Organization in frustration at attempts by the United States to lead the negotiations, despite its decision to leave the WHO. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-france-quit-who-reform-talks-amid-tension-with-washington-319067">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-it-opposes-barbarous-hong-kong-sanctions-by-united-states-319003" hreflang="en">China says it opposes 'barbarous' Hong Kong sanctions by United States</a>

<img alt="China" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="148b923c-e2f7-4210-9985-2e5b4ba12712" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%283%29_73.jpg" />

The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on Luo Huining, the head of China's Liaison Office, as well as Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam and other current and former officials that Washington accuses of curtailing political freedoms in the global financial hub. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-it-opposes-barbarous-hong-kong-sanctions-by-united-states-319003">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mauritius-declares-environmental-emergency-after-oil-spill-318992" hreflang="en">Mauritius declares environmental emergency after oil spill</a>

<img alt="Oil spill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6488d732-170c-43c7-8f09-d231a8dbc01d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/_113856524_tv062817315-1_0.jpg" />

The Indian Ocean island of Mauritius declared a “state of environmental emergency” late Friday after a ship that ran aground offshore days ago began spilling tonnes of fuel. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mauritius-declares-environmental-emergency-after-oil-spill-318992">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-floods-landslides-kill-21-as-heavy-rains-continue-319053" hreflang="en">South Korea floods, landslides kill 21 as heavy rains continue</a>

<img alt="Korea" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="20631a63-5dea-4a44-8cba-38baa6484c09" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/tl-landslide-e-080820.jpg" />

At least 21 people have died after 46 days of heavy rains in South Korea, with the country's longest monsoon in seven years causing more flooding, landslides and evacuations on Saturday. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-floods-landslides-kill-21-as-heavy-rains-continue-319053">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-awards-united-launch-alliance-spacex-launch-contracts-318987" hreflang="en">Pentagon awards United Launch Alliance, SpaceX launch contracts</a>

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The US Air Force said on Friday it awarded United Launch Alliance (ULA) and Elon Musk's SpaceX $653 million in combined military launch contracts under the Pentagon's next-generation, multibillion-dollar launch capability program. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-awards-united-launch-alliance-spacex-launch-contracts-318987">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-wants-trump-to-lose-election-russia-working-to-insult-biden-us-intel-says-318968" hreflang="en">China wants Trump to lose election, Russia working to insult Biden, US intel says</a>

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The US intelligence has assessed that&nbsp;Russia, China and Iran will all try to interfere in the 2020 presidential election with Beijing&nbsp;"preferring" an outcome where President Donald Trump is not reelected in November and Moscow working to "denigrate" former Vice President Joe Biden's White House bid. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-wants-trump-to-lose-election-russia-working-to-insult-biden-us-intel-says-318968">Read more</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-lgbt-protests-police-detain-48-people-amid-crackdown-on-activists-319064" hreflang="en">Poland LGBT protests: Police detain 48 people amid crackdown on activists</a>

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Police said they detained 48 people after protesters tried to stop them arresting an LGBT activist accused of hanging rainbow flags over statues in Warsaw and damaging a pro-life campaigner's van. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-lgbt-protests-police-detain-48-people-amid-crackdown-on-activists-319064">Read more</a>

More than 60 still missing after Beirut massive explosion: Health ministry Four days after a massive explosion at the port in Beirut left more than 150 people dead, more than 60 people are still missing, a health ministry official said Saturday.

More than 60 still missing after Beirut massive explosion: Health ministry Four days after a massive explosion at the port in Beirut left more than 150 people dead, more than 60 people are still missing, a health ministry official said Saturday. Read more Lebanon's Hezbollah leader denies storing arms at Beirut blast site Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah has denied the involvement of his powerful Shiite movement in the Beirut explosion that killed more than 150 people. Read more Death toll in Air India plane crash rises to at least 18; relief work underway The death toll in the Kozhikode plane crash has risen to at least 18, the Air India Express said on Saturday. Read more Germany, France quit WHO reform talks amid tension with Washington France and Germany have quit talks on reforming the World Health Organization in frustration at attempts by the United States to lead the negotiations, despite its decision to leave the WHO. Read more China says it opposes 'barbarous' Hong Kong sanctions by United States The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on Luo Huining, the head of China's Liaison Office, as well as Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam and other current and former officials that Washington accuses of curtailing political freedoms in the global financial hub. Read more Mauritius declares environmental emergency after oil spill The Indian Ocean island of Mauritius declared a “state of environmental emergency” late Friday after a ship that ran aground offshore days ago began spilling tonnes of fuel. Read more South Korea floods, landslides kill 21 as heavy rains continue At least 21 people have died after 46 days of heavy rains in South Korea, with the country's longest monsoon in seven years causing more flooding, landslides and evacuations on Saturday. Read more Pentagon awards United Launch Alliance, SpaceX launch contracts The US Air Force said on Friday it awarded United Launch Alliance (ULA) and Elon Musk's SpaceX $653 million in combined military launch contracts under the Pentagon's next-generation, multibillion-dollar launch capability program. Read more China wants Trump to lose election, Russia working to insult Biden, US intel says The US intelligence has assessed that Russia, China and Iran will all try to interfere in the 2020 presidential election with Beijing "preferring" an outcome where President Donald Trump is not reelected in November and Moscow working to "denigrate" former Vice President Joe Biden's White House bid. Read more Poland LGBT protests: Police detain 48 people amid crackdown on activists Police said they detained 48 people after protesters tried to stop them arresting an LGBT activist accused of hanging rainbow flags over statues in Warsaw and damaging a pro-life campaigner's van. Read more

Top 10 world news today: 60 missing after Beirut explosion, death toll up in Air India plane crash, and more

Riot police fired tear gas at demonstrators trying to break through a barrier to get to the parliament building in Beirut on Saturday during a protest over the government's handling of this week's devastating explosion in the city.

About 5,000 people gathered in Martyrs' Square in the city centre, some throwing stones. Police fired tear gas when some protesters tried to break through the barrier blocking a street leading to parliament, a Reuters journalist said.

The protesters chanted "the people want the fall of the regime," and held posters saying "Leave, you are all killers."

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beirut-explosion-created-massive-crater-at-port-satellite-imagery-shows-318495">&nbsp;Beirut explosion created massive crater at port, satellite imagery shows</a>

"We want a future with dignity, we don’t want the blood of the victims of the explosion wasted," said Rose Sirour, one of the demonstrators.

Tuesday's blast in the port, the biggest explosion in Beirut's history, killed 154 people, injured 5,000 and destroyed a swathe of the city.

The government has promised to hold those responsible to account.

Some residents, struggling to clean up shattered homes, complain the government they see as corrupt - there had been months of protests against its handling of a deep economic crisis before this week's disaster - has let them down again.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beiruts-accidental-cargo-how-an-unscheduled-port-visit-led-to-disaster-318756">Beirut's accidental cargo: How an unscheduled port visit led to disaster</a>

"We have no trust in our government," said university student Celine Dibo as she scrubbed blood off the walls of her shattered apartment building. "I wish the United Nations would take over Lebanon."

Several people said they were not at all surprised that French President Emmanuel Macron had visited their gutted neighbourhoods this week while Lebanese leaders had not.

"We are living in ground zero. I hope another country would just take us over. Our leaders are a bunch of corrupt people," said psychologist Maryse Hayek, 48, whose parents' house was destroyed in the explosion.

Lebanon's Kataeb Party, a Christian group that opposes the government backed by the Iran-aligned Hezbollah, announced on Saturday the resignation of its three lawmakers from parliament.

"I invite all honourable (lawmakers) to resign so that the people can decide who will govern them, without anybody imposing anything to them," said party chief Samy Gemayel, announcing the move during the funeral of a leading member of the group who died in the explosion.

Macron, who visited Beirut on Thursday, promised angry crowds that aid to rebuild the city would not fall into "corrupt hands". He will host a donor conference for Lebanon via video-link on Sunday, his office said.

The prime minister and presidency have said 2,750 tonnes of highly explosive ammonium nitrate, which is used in making fertilisers and bombs, had been stored for six years without safety measures at the port warehouse.

President Michel Aoun said on Friday an investigation would examine whether it was caused by a bomb or other external interference. Aoun said the investigation would also weigh if the blast was due to negligence or an accident. Twenty people had been detained so far, he added.

'We can't afford to rebuild'

Some residents wondered how they would ever rebuild their lives.

Tearing up, Bilal Hassan used his bare hands to try to remove debris from his home. He has been sleeping on a dusty couch besides pieces of splintered glass.

When his three wounded teenage children ran for their lives they left blood stains on the staircase and walls.

"There is really nothing we can do. We can't afford to rebuild and no one is helping us," he said, standing beside a large teddy bear that was blown across his home, and a damaged photograph of him and his wife.

Bulldozers ploughed through the wreckage of mangled homes and long rows of flattened cars as soldiers stood by. Volunteers with shovels streamed through streets.

Danielle Chemaly said her charity organisation, whose headquarters was destroyed, had provided assistance to 70 families who were left homeless.

"We have given people initial help but we don't know what we can do for families in the future. It requires major projects," she said.

Officials have said the blast could have caused losses amounting to $15 billion. That is a bill that Lebanon cannot pay after already defaulting on a mountain of debt - exceeding 150% of economic output - and with talks stalled on a lifeline from the International Monetary Fund.

Aid from abroad&nbsp;

France and other countries have rushed emergency aid to Lebanon, including doctors, and tons of health equipment and food. The blast destroyed Lebanon's only major grain silo and U.N. agencies are helping provide emergency food and medical aid.

Arab League Chief Ahmed Aboul Gheit said after a meeting with Aoun on Saturday he would seek to mobilise Arab efforts to provide support to Lebanon. Also speaking after meeting Aoun, Turkish Vice President Fuat Oktay said his country is ready to help rebuild the port.

For ordinary Lebanese, the scale of destruction is overwhelming.

"It felt like a mini atomic bomb," said George Rohana, sitting beside a supermarket that was demolished.

Marita Abou Jawda was handing out bread and cheese to victims of the blast.

"Macron offered to help and our government has not done anything. It has always been like that," she said. "After Macron visited I played the French national anthem all day in my car."

Riot police fired tear gas at demonstrators trying to break through a barrier to get to the parliament building in Beirut on Saturday during a protest over the government's handling of this week's devastating explosion in the city.

Riot police fired tear gas at demonstrators trying to break through a barrier to get to the parliament building in Beirut on Saturday during a protest over the government's handling of this week's devastating explosion in the city. About 5,000 people gathered in Martyrs' Square in the city centre, some throwing stones. Police fired tear gas when some protesters tried to break through the barrier blocking a street leading to parliament, a Reuters journalist said. The protesters chanted "the people want the fall of the regime," and held posters saying "Leave, you are all killers." Also read: Beirut explosion created massive crater at port, satellite imagery shows "We want a future with dignity, we don’t want the blood of the victims of the explosion wasted," said Rose Sirour, one of the demonstrators. Tuesday's blast in the port, the biggest explosion in Beirut's history, killed 154 people, injured 5,000 and destroyed a swathe of the city. The government has promised to hold those responsible to account. Some residents, struggling to clean up shattered homes, complain the government they see as corrupt - there had been months of protests against its handling of a deep economic crisis before this week's disaster - has let them down again. Also read: Beirut's accidental cargo: How an unscheduled port visit led to disaster "We have no trust in our government," said university student Celine Dibo as she scrubbed blood off the walls of her shattered apartment building. "I wish the United Nations would take over Lebanon." Several people said they were not at all surprised that French President Emmanuel Macron had visited their gutted neighbourhoods this week while Lebanese leaders had not. "We are living in ground zero. I hope another country would just take us over. Our leaders are a bunch of corrupt people," said psychologist Maryse Hayek, 48, whose parents' house was destroyed in the explosion. Lebanon's Kataeb Party, a Christian group that opposes the government backed by the Iran-aligned Hezbollah, announced on Saturday the resignation of its three lawmakers from parliament. "I invite all honourable (lawmakers) to resign so that the people can decide who will govern them, without anybody imposing anything to them," said party chief Samy Gemayel, announcing the move during the funeral of a leading member of the group who died in the explosion. Macron, who visited Beirut on Thursday, promised angry crowds that aid to rebuild the city would not fall into "corrupt hands". He will host a donor conference for Lebanon via video-link on Sunday, his office said. The prime minister and presidency have said 2,750 tonnes of highly explosive ammonium nitrate, which is used in making fertilisers and bombs, had been stored for six years without safety measures at the port warehouse. President Michel Aoun said on Friday an investigation would examine whether it was caused by a bomb or other external interference. Aoun said the investigation would also weigh if the blast was due to negligence or an accident. Twenty people had been detained so far, he added. 'We can't afford to rebuild' Some residents wondered how they would ever rebuild their lives. Tearing up, Bilal Hassan used his bare hands to try to remove debris from his home. He has been sleeping on a dusty couch besides pieces of splintered glass. When his three wounded teenage children ran for their lives they left blood stains on the staircase and walls. "There is really nothing we can do. We can't afford to rebuild and no one is helping us," he said, standing beside a large teddy bear that was blown across his home, and a damaged photograph of him and his wife. Bulldozers ploughed through the wreckage of mangled homes and long rows of flattened cars as soldiers stood by. Volunteers with shovels streamed through streets. Danielle Chemaly said her charity organisation, whose headquarters was destroyed, had provided assistance to 70 families who were left homeless. "We have given people initial help but we don't know what we can do for families in the future. It requires major projects," she said. Officials have said the blast could have caused losses amounting to $15 billion. That is a bill that Lebanon cannot pay after already defaulting on a mountain of debt - exceeding 150% of economic output - and with talks stalled on a lifeline from the International Monetary Fund. Aid from abroad France and other countries have rushed emergency aid to Lebanon, including doctors, and tons of health equipment and food. The blast destroyed Lebanon's only major grain silo and U.N. agencies are helping provide emergency food and medical aid. Arab League Chief Ahmed Aboul Gheit said after a meeting with Aoun on Saturday he would seek to mobilise Arab efforts to provide support to Lebanon. Also speaking after meeting Aoun, Turkish Vice President Fuat Oktay said his country is ready to help rebuild the port. For ordinary Lebanese, the scale of destruction is overwhelming. "It felt like a mini atomic bomb," said George Rohana, sitting beside a supermarket that was demolished. Marita Abou Jawda was handing out bread and cheese to victims of the blast. "Macron offered to help and our government has not done anything. It has always been like that," she said. "After Macron visited I played the French national anthem all day in my car."

Police fire tear gas at Beirut protesters angry over explosion

Juventus sacked coach Maurizio Sarri on Saturday after the Italian club's Champions League last 16 exit to Lyon. Despite Cristiano Ronaldo's double in a home 2-1 win on Friday, Juve fell 2-2 on aggregate to the French club, ending their quest for a title they last won in 1996.

Juventus sacked coach Maurizio Sarri on Saturday after the Italian club's Champions League last 16 exit to Lyon. Despite Cristiano Ronaldo's double in a home 2-1 win on Friday, Juve fell 2-2 on aggregate to the French club, ending their quest for a title they last won in 1996. Sarri has been the target of criticism since early on in his tenure and the European failure was the final straw for the club’s hierarchy. A club statement read: “The club would like to thank the coach for having written a new page in Juventus’ history with the victory of the ninth-consecutive championship, the culmination of a personal journey that led him to climb all the divisions of Italian football.” Despite their domestic dominance, Juventus haven’t lifted the Champions League trophy since 1996.

Juventus sack coach Maurizio Sarri sacked after Champions League exit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra (RSK), a Swachh Bharat Mission interactive experience centre.&nbsp;

The inauguration also coincided with the centenary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi`s Champaran Satyagraha.

The Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra is situated at Raj Ghat, the samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi.

Modi subsequently watched a short video on `Swachh Bharat Mission` at the Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra.

"The installations at RSK will introduce future generations to the successful journey of the world`s largest behaviour change campaign, the Swachh Bharat Mission, " a statement issued by the PMO said.

"A balanced mix of digital and outdoor installations in the RSK will impart information, awareness and education on Swachhata and related aspects. The interplay of processes will be presented through assimilative learning, success stories and thematic messages in an interactive format," the PMO added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra (RSK), a Swachh Bharat Mission interactive experience centre. The inauguration also coincided with the centenary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi`s Champaran Satyagraha.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra (RSK), a Swachh Bharat Mission interactive experience centre. The inauguration also coincided with the centenary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi`s Champaran Satyagraha. The Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra is situated at Raj Ghat, the samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi. Modi subsequently watched a short video on `Swachh Bharat Mission` at the Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra. "The installations at RSK will introduce future generations to the successful journey of the world`s largest behaviour change campaign, the Swachh Bharat Mission, " a statement issued by the PMO said. "A balanced mix of digital and outdoor installations in the RSK will impart information, awareness and education on Swachhata and related aspects. The interplay of processes will be presented through assimilative learning, success stories and thematic messages in an interactive format," the PMO added.

PM Modi inaugurates Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra in Delhi

Several injured passengers of the ill-fated Air India Express flight from Dubai which overshot the runway and crashed at the airport here are yet to get over the horror moments that took them close to death.

It was a black Friday for all the 184 passengers who after a long wait managed to get tickets in the repatriation flight from Dubai as part of the Centre's Vande Bharat Mission to evacuate Indians stranded abroad due to coronovirus pandemic.

"We did not realise what really happened other than the flight was shaking," said Ramshad, who was injured as the aircraft dived into the valley and broke into two portions on Friday night after landing amid rains.

Though he was injured, Ramshad's wife Sufaira and four- year old daughter Saidasherin escaped without any serious wounds.

Similar is the experience of Ashraf, a native of east Kozhikode, now under treatment at the Medical College Hospital here, who said he was yet to recover from the shock.

"As soon the flight crashed, the emergency door was opened and people jumped out to safety, another survivor said.

Ashik, undergoing treatment at a hospital here, said the fire force personnel reached immediately and shifted the injured to hospital soon.

Eighteen people, including pilot-in command Captain Deepak Sathe and Co-pilot Akhilesh Kumar were among those killed in the accident.

Four cabin crew are among the 172 people who escaped with injuries.

The incident also saw local people joining the police and Fire and Force personnel in rushing to the rescue of the victims despite pouring rains and unmindful of social distancing and other COVID-19 protocols.

Dr Shimna Azeer, a doctor of a private hospital in Malappuram, who attended to a few of the injured brought there, said she was astonished at the manner in which the volunteers from the accident spot quickly managed to bring the affected.

In spite of the restrictions imposed due to containment and the heavy downpour that lashed since evening, the volunteers did a fantastic job, forgetting all protocols of social distancing or wearing masks which were fully wet during the course of rescue operations, Azeer said.&nbsp;

Several injured passengers of the ill-fated Air India Express flight from Dubai which overshot the runway and crashed at the airport here are yet to get over the horror moments that took them close to death.

Several injured passengers of the ill-fated Air India Express flight from Dubai which overshot the runway and crashed at the airport here are yet to get over the horror moments that took them close to death. It was a black Friday for all the 184 passengers who after a long wait managed to get tickets in the repatriation flight from Dubai as part of the Centre's Vande Bharat Mission to evacuate Indians stranded abroad due to coronovirus pandemic. "We did not realise what really happened other than the flight was shaking," said Ramshad, who was injured as the aircraft dived into the valley and broke into two portions on Friday night after landing amid rains. Though he was injured, Ramshad's wife Sufaira and four- year old daughter Saidasherin escaped without any serious wounds. Similar is the experience of Ashraf, a native of east Kozhikode, now under treatment at the Medical College Hospital here, who said he was yet to recover from the shock. "As soon the flight crashed, the emergency door was opened and people jumped out to safety, another survivor said. Ashik, undergoing treatment at a hospital here, said the fire force personnel reached immediately and shifted the injured to hospital soon. Eighteen people, including pilot-in command Captain Deepak Sathe and Co-pilot Akhilesh Kumar were among those killed in the accident. Four cabin crew are among the 172 people who escaped with injuries. The incident also saw local people joining the police and Fire and Force personnel in rushing to the rescue of the victims despite pouring rains and unmindful of social distancing and other COVID-19 protocols. Dr Shimna Azeer, a doctor of a private hospital in Malappuram, who attended to a few of the injured brought there, said she was astonished at the manner in which the volunteers from the accident spot quickly managed to bring the affected. In spite of the restrictions imposed due to containment and the heavy downpour that lashed since evening, the volunteers did a fantastic job, forgetting all protocols of social distancing or wearing masks which were fully wet during the course of rescue operations, Azeer said.

Survivors of Kozhikode air crash yet to recover from shock

Four days after a massive explosion at the port in Beirut left more than 150 people dead, more than 60 people are still missing, a health ministry official said Saturday.

Four days after a massive explosion at the port in Beirut left more than 150 people dead, more than 60 people are still missing, a health ministry official said Saturday. "The number of dead is 154, including 25 who have not yet been identified," the official told AFP. "In addition, we have more than 60 people still missing." Also read: Anti-government protests break out in Beirut; security forces fire tear gas The health minister said on Friday that at least 120 of the 5,000 people who were injured on Tuesday are in critical condition. The anger over Tuesday's explosion rose after the revelation that a large shipment of dangerous ammonium nitrate fertiliser had been stored for years in a warehouse. However, it remains unclear how the shipment caught fire. Also read | Beirut's accidental cargo: How an unscheduled port visit led to disaster Teams from France, Russia, Germany, Italy and other countries are still carrying out rescue work near the site of the explosion. The deadly blast has further deteriorated the already battering economic situation of Lebanon and led to a number of international aids.

More than 60 still missing after Beirut massive explosion: Health ministry

Sri Lanka is the first South Asian nation to go to polls during the pandemic as the country voted for a new parliament today. The election could change the political dynamics of the island nation.

The Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa used his presidential powers to dissolve the parliament and called for snap polls.

70 per cent turn out was recorded against 77.66 recorded during the last parliamentary election.

Gotabaya Rajapaksa's party was a clear winner even before the polling booths opened as there was no compelling opposition.

The parties contesting against them are fractured. United National Party led by former prime minister Wickremesinghe and its breakaway group SJN s led by Sajith Premadasa. There are smaller parties like the Tamil National Alliance and the NPP.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-understanding-the-sri-lankan-parliamentary-elections-318447/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

7,452 candidates from 54 political parties contested for 225 seats in the Lankan parliament.

The key issue in the polls is Wuhan virus pandemic took a lot of space. Mahinda Rajapaksa's party may have earned brownie points for the government's handling of the Wuhan virus. Sri Lanka has fared much better than its South Asian neighbours.

The total number of COVID-19 cases is 2,834 as of this evening. The ruling party SLPP asked voters for a 2/3rd majority as, the said, Lanka needs a strong government. A 2/3rd majority for Mahinda Rajapaksa could seal the fate of democracy. The Rajapaksa will repeal the 19th amendment which reduced the power of the president. This was back in 2015. If his party gets an absolute majority, it is likely to extend the term of the president. It would also give the president tighter control of the judiciary.

The result will be you will have the Rajapaksas controlling the legislature, the executive and the judiciary. This would spell an end to the checks and balances that democracies are based on. If Mahinda Rajapaksa gets a 2/3rd majority, those seeking justice against war crimes can forget about it.

As a former military leader, Gotabaya Rajapaksa is accused of war crimes during the civil war. His presidential team is full of present and former military leaders. They are also accused of war crimes. If the president controls the judiciary, he will elect judges to Lanka's top court and they are unlikely to bring military leaders to justice.

It is no secret that Sri Lanka is divided along ethnic and religious lines. There are the Sinhalese Buddhists and the Tamil minorities. The Buddhists are vote bank of the Rajapaksa brothers and account for 75% of the Lankan population. They support Gotabaya for his role in crushing the Tamil separatist movement LTTE. Gotabaya came to power by promising a more unified Sri Lanka. He has worked in the opposite direction since assuming power.

What does his victory mean for India?

A lot has been said about the Rajapaksa leaning towards China. Many of the Chinese infra projects began when Mahinda Rajapaksa was the president of Sri Lanka. He allowed two Chinese submarines to dock in Colombo in 2014.

However, going forward, the Rajapaksa brothers will try to strike a balance between India and China. India was the first country that Gotabaya visited after his victory in the presidential election. He has spoken highly of the Indian leadership.

The results will be out tomorrow.

Sri Lanka is the first South Asian nation to go to polls during the pandemic as the country voted for a new parliament today. The election could change the political dynamics of the island nation.

Sri Lanka is the first South Asian nation to go to polls during the pandemic as the country voted for a new parliament today. The election could change the political dynamics of the island nation. The Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa used his presidential powers to dissolve the parliament and called for snap polls. 70 per cent turn out was recorded against 77.66 recorded during the last parliamentary election. Gotabaya Rajapaksa's party was a clear winner even before the polling booths opened as there was no compelling opposition. The parties contesting against them are fractured. United National Party led by former prime minister Wickremesinghe and its breakaway group SJN s led by Sajith Premadasa. There are smaller parties like the Tamil National Alliance and the NPP. 7,452 candidates from 54 political parties contested for 225 seats in the Lankan parliament. The key issue in the polls is Wuhan virus pandemic took a lot of space. Mahinda Rajapaksa's party may have earned brownie points for the government's handling of the Wuhan virus. Sri Lanka has fared much better than its South Asian neighbours. The total number of COVID-19 cases is 2,834 as of this evening. The ruling party SLPP asked voters for a 2/3rd majority as, the said, Lanka needs a strong government. A 2/3rd majority for Mahinda Rajapaksa could seal the fate of democracy. The Rajapaksa will repeal the 19th amendment which reduced the power of the president. This was back in 2015. If his party gets an absolute majority, it is likely to extend the term of the president. It would also give the president tighter control of the judiciary. The result will be you will have the Rajapaksas controlling the legislature, the executive and the judiciary. This would spell an end to the checks and balances that democracies are based on. If Mahinda Rajapaksa gets a 2/3rd majority, those seeking justice against war crimes can forget about it. As a former military leader, Gotabaya Rajapaksa is accused of war crimes during the civil war. His presidential team is full of present and former military leaders. They are also accused of war crimes. If the president controls the judiciary, he will elect judges to Lanka's top court and they are unlikely to bring military leaders to justice. It is no secret that Sri Lanka is divided along ethnic and religious lines. There are the Sinhalese Buddhists and the Tamil minorities. The Buddhists are vote bank of the Rajapaksa brothers and account for 75% of the Lankan population. They support Gotabaya for his role in crushing the Tamil separatist movement LTTE. Gotabaya came to power by promising a more unified Sri Lanka. He has worked in the opposite direction since assuming power. What does his victory mean for India? A lot has been said about the Rajapaksa leaning towards China. Many of the Chinese infra projects began when Mahinda Rajapaksa was the president of Sri Lanka. He allowed two Chinese submarines to dock in Colombo in 2014. However, going forward, the Rajapaksa brothers will try to strike a balance between India and China. India was the first country that Gotabaya visited after his victory in the presidential election. He has spoken highly of the Indian leadership. The results will be out tomorrow.

Weak Opposition gives an edge to Rajapaksas in Sri Lankan polls

August 5 will is a momentous day in India's history as Prime minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the grand Ram Temple. 
&nbsp; 
He placed a 40-kilo silver brick at the very spot, which Hindus believe to be the birthplace of Lord Ram.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his speech after laying the foundation stone, said: "Ram temple will become the modern symbol of our traditions. It'll become a symbol of our devotion, our national sentiment. This temple will also symbolise the power of collective resolution of crores of people."

Clad in a gold silk kurta and a dhoti -- Modi had to add a mask to his traditional attire. The venue and the surrounding areas were cordoned off to keep the crowd away and only invitees were allowed to enter the ritual arena.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ram-temple-in-ayodhya-pm-modi-lays-the-first-brick-318449/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

At least 170 spiritual leaders were in attendance and scores of devotees watched on giant screens set-up across the city.

The idol was kept under a tent for more than three decades. It was moved to a make-shift temple earlier this year. The proposed ram temple will be double the size of the original plan.

It will be constructed in the Nagara style of architecture and, will stand over 160 feet in height.

For the foundation of the temple, 200,000 bricks inscribed with lord ram have been sent by devotees over the years.

Soil from 2,000 holy sites around India and water from 100 holy rivers will be used.

It will be a three-storey stone structure with multiple turrets, pillars and domes. The temple will have five domes instead of two to accommodate more devotees. 360 pillars will bear the weight of the domes. The project is expected to be completed in the next three years and, will cost at least 300 crore rupees.

Indians in the United States are in a celebratory mood. They went on a march chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' -- from the Capitol Hill to the White House. Temples in California, Washington, Texas and Florida have planned special rituals to mark the historic event.

August 5 will is a momentous day in India's history as Prime minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the grand Ram Temple. He placed a 40-kilo silver brick at the very spot, which Hindus believe to be the birthplace of Lord Ram.

August 5 will is a momentous day in India's history as Prime minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the grand Ram Temple. He placed a 40-kilo silver brick at the very spot, which Hindus believe to be the birthplace of Lord Ram. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his speech after laying the foundation stone, said: "Ram temple will become the modern symbol of our traditions. It'll become a symbol of our devotion, our national sentiment. This temple will also symbolise the power of collective resolution of crores of people." Clad in a gold silk kurta and a dhoti -- Modi had to add a mask to his traditional attire. The venue and the surrounding areas were cordoned off to keep the crowd away and only invitees were allowed to enter the ritual arena. At least 170 spiritual leaders were in attendance and scores of devotees watched on giant screens set-up across the city. The idol was kept under a tent for more than three decades. It was moved to a make-shift temple earlier this year. The proposed ram temple will be double the size of the original plan. It will be constructed in the Nagara style of architecture and, will stand over 160 feet in height. For the foundation of the temple, 200,000 bricks inscribed with lord ram have been sent by devotees over the years. Soil from 2,000 holy sites around India and water from 100 holy rivers will be used. It will be a three-storey stone structure with multiple turrets, pillars and domes. The temple will have five domes instead of two to accommodate more devotees. 360 pillars will bear the weight of the domes. The project is expected to be completed in the next three years and, will cost at least 300 crore rupees. Indians in the United States are in a celebratory mood. They went on a march chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' -- from the Capitol Hill to the White House. Temples in California, Washington, Texas and Florida have planned special rituals to mark the historic event.

Momentous day in Indian history as PM Modi lays foundation stone for Ram Temple

Over the years, many political parties have made fortunes over a Ram temple. Some by promising it, others by opposing it, still others by sitting on the fence, and still more by offering mediation. Over the last 4 decades, the Ayodhya temple issue has been a political genie for several political parties, especially the BJP which openly supported the temple agitation since its formation back in 1980.

In 2014, the BJP came to power by promising a Ram temple. As the Ayodhya files moved from one court to another, political parties kept the issue burning in the election rallies. Now, with the foundation stone laid, parties will have to rebuild their political narratives.

Now that the foundation stone for the temple has been laid, what is the road ahead? First and most importantly, the temple issue should unite and not divide India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly stressed that Lord Ram is for everyone, today.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-big-takeaways-from-the-ayodhya-ground-breaking-318445/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The temple will help in the development of Ayodhya. The state government has already made a special provision of 500 crores for an airport in Ayodhya. The city's old railway station is being re-developed at a cost of over 100 crores rupees. Another 85 crores has been kept aside for high-class infrastructure.

The temple will not just usher in connectivity, but also tourism, jobs and revenue. And finally, the Ram temple will help harness the international appeal of the Ramayan. The Hindu epic has been a global soft power for India. The story of Ramayan has been told in different versions in different parts of the world. Ramayan links countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Cambodia to India. The construction of a temple so closely linked to the epic will only help boost India's soft power in the region.

Why this is a seminal moment

1. A major shift in Indian politics: The temple issue was a potent mix of politics, religion and the law. A decades-old raison d’être for political forces has been dissolved. Those who whipped up passions in the name of Ram, those who fought elections opposing it, those who sat on the fence, will all have to find something else to do.

2. Secularism vs pseudo-secularism: the Ram temple movement forced India to introspect. Was secularism being used as a political fig leaf to hide minority appeasement? Was the state being unfair to the majority Hindus? What did secularism mean in the Indian context?

3. Hindus as a political force: The Ayodhya movement made Hindus politically relevant. Compare to Zionism and political Islam.

The road ahead:

1. Reconciliation: Modi won re-election bridging caste divides. He said Ram is for everyone. All legal parties have given positive statements. &nbsp; &nbsp; This temple should unite and not divide India. Come out of the realm of politics.

2. Development of the city of Ayodhya, infra push for the region, connectivity

3. Soft power/global connect: The Ramayan circuit, harness the international appeal of the Ramayan.

Over the years, many political parties have made fortunes over a Ram temple. Some by promising it, others by opposing it, still others by sitting on the fence, and still more by offering mediation.

Over the years, many political parties have made fortunes over a Ram temple. Some by promising it, others by opposing it, still others by sitting on the fence, and still more by offering mediation. Over the last 4 decades, the Ayodhya temple issue has been a political genie for several political parties, especially the BJP which openly supported the temple agitation since its formation back in 1980. In 2014, the BJP came to power by promising a Ram temple. As the Ayodhya files moved from one court to another, political parties kept the issue burning in the election rallies. Now, with the foundation stone laid, parties will have to rebuild their political narratives. Now that the foundation stone for the temple has been laid, what is the road ahead? First and most importantly, the temple issue should unite and not divide India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly stressed that Lord Ram is for everyone, today. The temple will help in the development of Ayodhya. The state government has already made a special provision of 500 crores for an airport in Ayodhya. The city's old railway station is being re-developed at a cost of over 100 crores rupees. Another 85 crores has been kept aside for high-class infrastructure. The temple will not just usher in connectivity, but also tourism, jobs and revenue. And finally, the Ram temple will help harness the international appeal of the Ramayan. The Hindu epic has been a global soft power for India. The story of Ramayan has been told in different versions in different parts of the world. Ramayan links countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Cambodia to India. The construction of a temple so closely linked to the epic will only help boost India's soft power in the region. Why this is a seminal moment 1. A major shift in Indian politics: The temple issue was a potent mix of politics, religion and the law. A decades-old raison d’être for political forces has been dissolved. Those who whipped up passions in the name of Ram, those who fought elections opposing it, those who sat on the fence, will all have to find something else to do. 2. Secularism vs pseudo-secularism: the Ram temple movement forced India to introspect. Was secularism being used as a political fig leaf to hide minority appeasement? Was the state being unfair to the majority Hindus? What did secularism mean in the Indian context? 3. Hindus as a political force: The Ayodhya movement made Hindus politically relevant. Compare to Zionism and political Islam. The road ahead: 1. Reconciliation: Modi won re-election bridging caste divides. He said Ram is for everyone. All legal parties have given positive statements. This temple should unite and not divide India. Come out of the realm of politics. 2. Development of the city of Ayodhya, infra push for the region, connectivity 3. Soft power/global connect: The Ramayan circuit, harness the international appeal of the Ramayan.

With Ayodhya groundbreaking ceremony decades-old raison d’être for political forces dissolved

Beirut was supposed to be an economic, cultural and political hub of West Asia. But, the city is struggling to rise from its bloody past.

The city of Beirut hides its charm for the night. That is when the nightlife hotspots of the city come to life. The party never stopped in Beirut. Even when the city was torn apart by a bloody civil war in the last century.

The old holiday inn, with bullet holes and battered walls,&nbsp;still stands in the center of the city.

Beirut, once known as the jewel of the Mediterranean, has become a city of baffling contradictions.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-beirut-the-embattled-jewel-of-the-mediterranean-318450/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

From 1952 to 1975, Beirut was a hub of economic, social, intellectual and cultural life in West Asia. Most of the Arab wealth flowed through this city due to country's free economic and foreign exchange system, including a banking-secrecy law.

Beirut is well connected via a seaport and airport. Something that made the city a paradise for businessmen. Also for politicians escaping upheavals and military coups.

It is still seen as one of the most liberal cities in the Arab world.

In the 1970s, the city’s french architecture, cuisine and equal rights for women often sparked comparisons with Paris.

Palestinian resistance organizations took refuge in Beirut. After the Arab-Israeli war of 1967, the city served as the headquarters of the Palestinian movement.

This was after the Palestine Liberation Organization was crushed in Jordan.

Beirut was torn apart by a devastating civil war. For 15 years, two groups fought for control.

The Lebanese right-wing parties backed by the United States and the left-wing parties, who allied with Yasser Arafat and the Soviet Union.

The civil war ended years ago. But, Beirut is still struggling to bounce back. Flawed policies and sudden shocks have pushed Lebanon to its worst economic crisis.

There were major protests last year. In 2019, Lebanon’s poverty rate stood at 33 per cent.

The World Bank predicted that one out of two Lebanese citizens may soon live below the poverty line. The people are angry with the political elite.

Unlike several countries in the Arab world, Lebanon is not dominated by one strong ruler. Leading to a fractured political landscape.

Made worse by a system of quotas. There are 18 officially recognized sects. The Lebanese parliament is half Christian and half Muslim. According to the rules, the prime minister must be a Sunni Muslim and the president a Maronite Christian, while the speaker must be a Shi'ite.&nbsp;

The sudden shock of the Wuhan virus pandemic has hit Beirut hard.

The people of Lebanon have enjoyed the finer pleasures of life. Even during political upheavals and civil violence. &nbsp;But -- the prevailing crisis threatens the very existence of the Lebanese way of life.

Beirut was supposed to be an economic, cultural and political hub of West Asia. But, the city is struggling to rise from its bloody past. The city of Beirut hides its charm for the night.

Beirut was supposed to be an economic, cultural and political hub of West Asia. But, the city is struggling to rise from its bloody past. The city of Beirut hides its charm for the night. That is when the nightlife hotspots of the city come to life. The party never stopped in Beirut. Even when the city was torn apart by a bloody civil war in the last century. The old holiday inn, with bullet holes and battered walls, still stands in the center of the city. Beirut, once known as the jewel of the Mediterranean, has become a city of baffling contradictions. From 1952 to 1975, Beirut was a hub of economic, social, intellectual and cultural life in West Asia. Most of the Arab wealth flowed through this city due to country's free economic and foreign exchange system, including a banking-secrecy law. Beirut is well connected via a seaport and airport. Something that made the city a paradise for businessmen. Also for politicians escaping upheavals and military coups. It is still seen as one of the most liberal cities in the Arab world. In the 1970s, the city’s french architecture, cuisine and equal rights for women often sparked comparisons with Paris. Palestinian resistance organizations took refuge in Beirut. After the Arab-Israeli war of 1967, the city served as the headquarters of the Palestinian movement. This was after the Palestine Liberation Organization was crushed in Jordan. Beirut was torn apart by a devastating civil war. For 15 years, two groups fought for control. The Lebanese right-wing parties backed by the United States and the left-wing parties, who allied with Yasser Arafat and the Soviet Union. The civil war ended years ago. But, Beirut is still struggling to bounce back. Flawed policies and sudden shocks have pushed Lebanon to its worst economic crisis. There were major protests last year. In 2019, Lebanon’s poverty rate stood at 33 per cent. The World Bank predicted that one out of two Lebanese citizens may soon live below the poverty line. The people are angry with the political elite. Unlike several countries in the Arab world, Lebanon is not dominated by one strong ruler. Leading to a fractured political landscape. Made worse by a system of quotas. There are 18 officially recognized sects. The Lebanese parliament is half Christian and half Muslim. According to the rules, the prime minister must be a Sunni Muslim and the president a Maronite Christian, while the speaker must be a Shi'ite. The sudden shock of the Wuhan virus pandemic has hit Beirut hard. The people of Lebanon have enjoyed the finer pleasures of life. Even during political upheavals and civil violence. But -- the prevailing crisis threatens the very existence of the Lebanese way of life.

Beirut, once jewel of Mediterranean, now a city of baffling contradictions

Saniniu Laizer threw a big party a month ago. Now, he must arrange a second one. Two precious stones -- the size of a rugby ball with a deep bluish tint and silvery bruises made Laizer an overnight millionaire in June.

Now, he has discovered another cake of tanzanite. His satchel is unzipped to pocket millions of dollars yet again.

"I am feeling great and I am feeling so happy because this thing has brought a lot of respect for me and for Tanzania and as the owner I have to thank god because it would not be possible to get this without it being part of his grand design," he says.

In June, Laizer, a small-scale miner, unearthed two tanzanite gemstones at a mine in Manyara. One weighed 9 kilograms, the other about 5 kilograms. He sold both the stones to the government for over 3 million dollars. They are among the biggest rough tanzanite stones ever found.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-tanzanias-overnight-millionaire-318446/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Now, Laizer has sold the third stone, weighing about 6 kilograms to the government for two&nbsp;million dollars. Tanzanite is one of the rarest gemstones in the world. That makes it one of the most valuable too.

The three stones together were valued at over 5 million dollars by the government.

Much lower than the retail value. So, why did Laizer choose to sell them to the government at a cut price?

"We Tanzanians have decided that minerals should first benefit us as a country; it is enough for us being brokers to others and let our minerals go and benefit them while our communities remain poor. For example, in many mining areas business has gone up. Even areas where there was no business, now things have changed."

Tanzanite is only found in a 14 square kilometre strip of land in northern Tanzania. The mineral-rich area is fenced off by a huge wall to keep away smugglers.

Before 2018, 40 per cent of all tanzanite found at the site slipped into illegal trade. Since the wall has come up, smuggling has gone down, government revenue has gone up.

Saniniu Laizer has set an example by not selling the stones to smugglers. In his honour, the government will keep the stones in a museum. 
&nbsp;

Saniniu Laizer threw a big party a month ago. Now, he must arrange a second one. Two precious stones -- the size of a rugby ball with a deep bluish tint and silvery bruises made Laizer an overnight millionaire in June.

Saniniu Laizer threw a big party a month ago. Now, he must arrange a second one. Two precious stones -- the size of a rugby ball with a deep bluish tint and silvery bruises made Laizer an overnight millionaire in June. Now, he has discovered another cake of tanzanite. His satchel is unzipped to pocket millions of dollars yet again. "I am feeling great and I am feeling so happy because this thing has brought a lot of respect for me and for Tanzania and as the owner I have to thank god because it would not be possible to get this without it being part of his grand design," he says. In June, Laizer, a small-scale miner, unearthed two tanzanite gemstones at a mine in Manyara. One weighed 9 kilograms, the other about 5 kilograms. He sold both the stones to the government for over 3 million dollars. They are among the biggest rough tanzanite stones ever found. Now, Laizer has sold the third stone, weighing about 6 kilograms to the government for two million dollars. Tanzanite is one of the rarest gemstones in the world. That makes it one of the most valuable too. The three stones together were valued at over 5 million dollars by the government. Much lower than the retail value. So, why did Laizer choose to sell them to the government at a cut price? "We Tanzanians have decided that minerals should first benefit us as a country; it is enough for us being brokers to others and let our minerals go and benefit them while our communities remain poor. For example, in many mining areas business has gone up. Even areas where there was no business, now things have changed." Tanzanite is only found in a 14 square kilometre strip of land in northern Tanzania. The mineral-rich area is fenced off by a huge wall to keep away smugglers. Before 2018, 40 per cent of all tanzanite found at the site slipped into illegal trade. Since the wall has come up, smuggling has gone down, government revenue has gone up. Saniniu Laizer has set an example by not selling the stones to smugglers. In his honour, the government will keep the stones in a museum.

Tanzania govt to honour accidental mining millionaire by keeping stones in a museum

August 5 will always be remembered in history for monumental decisions. It was on this day last year when India abrogated article 370 in the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

August 5 will always be remembered in history for monumental decisions. It was on this day last year when India abrogated article 370 in the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The decision took everyone by surprise. Some celebrated it as the correction of a historical blunder, while, others criticised it calling it the end of political rights of Kashmiris. Today is the first anniversary of this historic decision. What has been gained and what lost in the year that went by? Have the prophecies of a doomsday scenario come true? Has the development which the Government of India promised truly been delivered? Good or bad, the changes in Kashmir are quite significant. Corruption New Delhi has given top priority to eliminate corruption in Kashmir. The anti-corruption bureau of India has unearthed several large-scale financial scams in the last year. The Roshni land scam tops the list. This scam involved the grabbing of 21 lakh acres of forest land by powerful land mafia. This was a seven-year-old case it is finally heading to the conclusion. Youth The Jammu and Kashmir administration has made progress in the sphere of education. According to achievements listed by the Government of India. 50 new colleges are offering a total of 25,000 seats. Seven new medical colleges, five new nursing colleges and one state cancer institute has been set up in Kashmir. What about unemployment? The J&K administration has announced 10,000 jobs at various levels for the unemployed Kashmiri youth. Vacancies for doctors, vets and panchayat assistants are being filled. Plans are afoot to recruit 25,000 people in various other departments in the coming months. Terrorism Incidents of terror have significantly reduced in the valley. 188 terror-related incidents were recorded in Kashmir between January and July last year. This year the number has reduced to 120, according to a home ministry report. 51 grenade attacks took place in Kashmir in the same period last year. In 2020, the number has been reduced to just 21. The clean up is underway, a total of 110 local terrorists have been killed in 2020 so far. Some of them were the most dreaded in the valley like Hizbul commander Riyaz Naikoo and Jaish commander Kari Yasir. What about the challenges in the valley? The political space in Kashmir remains in a freeze. Yes, political detainees from mainstream parties have been released. But there seems to be no clear way forward to revive the stalled politics. Its been a year and Kashmir still doesn't have an elected legislature. This is leading to a growing trust deficit between Kashmiri politicians and the centre. A challenge that must be addressed at the earliest. There is also a need to slowly restore communication and lift travel bans in Kashmir. The lack of high-speed internet during a pandemic has been a subject of debate. What about Pakistan and its propaganda? There's no end to Islamabad's disinformation campaign in Kashmir. It continues to spread fake news. Social media posts from Pakistan still use edited pictures -- from Palestine and Syria --- and pass them off as Kashmir. These images are propagated across the world and the Pakistan Army is decisively using celebrities like Shahid Afridi to comment on Kashmir and portray it as a case of grave injustice. In the last 6 months, Pakistan with China at its side has tried to internationalise the issue. Global Support The international community supports India on the issue of Kashmir. Even though India has always maintained it is an internal matter. Efforts to raise it globally by some players-- have been non-starters. The British Labour Party known for its anti-India rhetoric has re-positioned itself on Kashmir. The new leader of the party, Keir Starmer has said this on record. After years of siding with Pakistan's narrative on Kashmir. The labour party has finally course-corrected and accepted that Kashmir is a bilateral issue. Pakistan's repeated attempts to involve the united nations and the Arab world have failed. Almost every country -- except China, Turkey and Malaysia has distanced itself from any resolution that Pakistan tries to push.

One year ago, Article 370 was abrogated in J&K: Here's what has changed

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