A terrorist was killed and a policeman injured in two separate encounters between security forces and ultras in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, police said.

While one encounter broke out in Anantnag district, another gunfight took place in Kulgam district&nbsp;both in south Kashmir.

A police official said the first encounter happened when security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Nowgam Shahabad of Dooru in the south Kashmir district acting on a specific input about the presence of militants.

He said as the forces were conducting the searches, the hiding militants fired upon them.

The forces retaliated, ensuing an encounter, the official said.

In the initial firing, a police personnel was injured and has been shifted to a hospital, the official added.

The exchange of firing was going on and further details were awaited, he said.

Meanwhile, another encounter broke out between militants and security forces in Mirhama area of the neighbouring Kulgam district, the official said.

He said one militant, his identity yet to be ascertained, was killed in the gunfight.

The operation is underway, he said.

A terrorist was killed and a policeman injured in two separate encounters between security forces and ultras in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, police said. While one encounter broke out in Anantnag district, another gunfight took place in Kulgam district both in south Kashmir.

A terrorist was killed and a policeman injured in two separate encounters between security forces and ultras in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, police said. While one encounter broke out in Anantnag district, another gunfight took place in Kulgam district both in south Kashmir. A police official said the first encounter happened when security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Nowgam Shahabad of Dooru in the south Kashmir district acting on a specific input about the presence of militants. He said as the forces were conducting the searches, the hiding militants fired upon them. The forces retaliated, ensuing an encounter, the official said. In the initial firing, a police personnel was injured and has been shifted to a hospital, the official added. The exchange of firing was going on and further details were awaited, he said. Meanwhile, another encounter broke out between militants and security forces in Mirhama area of the neighbouring Kulgam district, the official said. He said one militant, his identity yet to be ascertained, was killed in the gunfight. The operation is underway, he said.

Terrorist killed, cop injured in separate encounters in south Kashmir

A fish declared extinct in the wild is being successfully reintroduced to its habitat. The Tequila fish, was 'missing' from the wild since 2003. But now, more than 1500 Tequila fish have been released in the wild in Southwest Mexico and their numbers are increasing.

The fish were grown in a joint effort between the UK and Michoacana University in Mexico. The decades-long effort has born fruit now.

The project started in 1998 when scientists at the university received five pairs of fish from Chester Zoo. These fish were carefully kept in university's labs. Over the years, these fish founded a colony. The scientists carefully grew these fish by providing them required nutrition and conditions.

However, it is often seen that animals bred in captivity cannot survive in the wild as there are factors like predators, competition for food, adverse environmental conditions that limit their growth. Hence, 'training' is needed.

When the colony of Tequila fish grew to have 40 pairs in lab, scientists introduced them to an artificial pond for their 'training'. Here, the fish were subjected naturally to factors they did not encounter in the lab. The fish flourished in the artificial pond and the numbers increased to 10,000. This indicated that they were coping well to conditions.

It was then the scientists decided to reintroduce the fish in the wild.

Reintroduction of the Tequila fish can become a model for freshwater species that are currently under threat. 
&nbsp;

A fish declared extinct in the wild is being successfully reintroduced to its habitat. The Tequila fish, was 'missing' from the wild since 2003. But now, more than 1500 Tequila fish have been released in the wild in Southwest Mexico and their numbers are increasing.

A fish declared extinct in the wild is being successfully reintroduced to its habitat. The Tequila fish, was 'missing' from the wild since 2003. But now, more than 1500 Tequila fish have been released in the wild in Southwest Mexico and their numbers are increasing. The fish were grown in a joint effort between the UK and Michoacana University in Mexico. The decades-long effort has born fruit now. The project started in 1998 when scientists at the university received five pairs of fish from Chester Zoo. These fish were carefully kept in university's labs. Over the years, these fish founded a colony. The scientists carefully grew these fish by providing them required nutrition and conditions. However, it is often seen that animals bred in captivity cannot survive in the wild as there are factors like predators, competition for food, adverse environmental conditions that limit their growth. Hence, 'training' is needed. When the colony of Tequila fish grew to have 40 pairs in lab, scientists introduced them to an artificial pond for their 'training'. Here, the fish were subjected naturally to factors they did not encounter in the lab. The fish flourished in the artificial pond and the numbers increased to 10,000. This indicated that they were coping well to conditions. It was then the scientists decided to reintroduce the fish in the wild. Reintroduction of the Tequila fish can become a model for freshwater species that are currently under threat.

Reintroduction of 'extinct' Tequila fish sparks hopes for conservation

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas held talks with Israel Defence Minister Benny Gantz in his first official visit to Israel since 2010. The talks took place at Gantz's home in the town of Rosh Haayin, said Israeli media.

After the talks, Israel Israel unveiled a package of "confidence-building measures" for the occupied West Bank on Wednesday

"We discussed the implementation of economic and civilian measures, and emphasised the importance of deepening security coordination and preventing terror and violence -- for the well-being of both Israelis and Palestinians," Gantz said after the meeting on Tuesday evening.

The "confidence-building measures" included a $32 million (100 million shekel) advance payment to the PA in taxes collected on its behalf by Israel, and the granting of 600 extra permits allowing Palestinian businessmen to cross into Israel.

It also announced the regularisation of 6,000 more Palestinians living in the occupied West Bank, which has been under Israeli control since the Six-Day War of 1967.

Israel had already announced in October -- for the first time since 2009 -- the regularisation of the status of 4,000 Palestinians living in the large swathe of the West Bank known as Area C, where Israel exercises civilian as well as military control.

'Courageous effort'

Palestinian civil affairs minister Hussein al-Sheikh welcomed the meeting with Gantz, saying it had been a "serious and courageous effort" towards a "political" solution.

"The meeting dealt with the importance of creating a political horizon that leads to a political solution, in accordance with international resolutions," Sheikh said.

After Israel's coalition government led by Prime Minister Naftali Bennett was formed in June, Gantz had visited the Palestinian Authority's headquarters in the West Bank city of Ramallah in August for talks with Abbas, the first official meeting at such a level for several years.

But after those talks, hawkish Bennett, the former head of a settler lobby group who opposes Palestinian statehood, underlined that there was no peace process under way with the Palestinians, "and there won't be one".

Right-winger Bennett leads a motley coalition of parties ranging from the Jewish nationalist right to the centre and left.

Israel's right-wing opposition Likud party condemned the latest meeting, saying that "concessions dangerous for Israel's security are only a matter of time".

(With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas held talks with Israel Defence Minister Benny Gantz in his first official visit to Israel since 2010. The talks took place at Gantz's home in the town of Rosh Haayin, said Israeli media.

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas held talks with Israel Defence Minister Benny Gantz in his first official visit to Israel since 2010. The talks took place at Gantz's home in the town of Rosh Haayin, said Israeli media. After the talks, Israel Israel unveiled a package of "confidence-building measures" for the occupied West Bank on Wednesday "We discussed the implementation of economic and civilian measures, and emphasised the importance of deepening security coordination and preventing terror and violence -- for the well-being of both Israelis and Palestinians," Gantz said after the meeting on Tuesday evening. The "confidence-building measures" included a $32 million (100 million shekel) advance payment to the PA in taxes collected on its behalf by Israel, and the granting of 600 extra permits allowing Palestinian businessmen to cross into Israel. It also announced the regularisation of 6,000 more Palestinians living in the occupied West Bank, which has been under Israeli control since the Six-Day War of 1967. Israel had already announced in October -- for the first time since 2009 -- the regularisation of the status of 4,000 Palestinians living in the large swathe of the West Bank known as Area C, where Israel exercises civilian as well as military control. 'Courageous effort' Palestinian civil affairs minister Hussein al-Sheikh welcomed the meeting with Gantz, saying it had been a "serious and courageous effort" towards a "political" solution. "The meeting dealt with the importance of creating a political horizon that leads to a political solution, in accordance with international resolutions," Sheikh said. After Israel's coalition government led by Prime Minister Naftali Bennett was formed in June, Gantz had visited the Palestinian Authority's headquarters in the West Bank city of Ramallah in August for talks with Abbas, the first official meeting at such a level for several years. But after those talks, hawkish Bennett, the former head of a settler lobby group who opposes Palestinian statehood, underlined that there was no peace process under way with the Palestinians, "and there won't be one". Right-winger Bennett leads a motley coalition of parties ranging from the Jewish nationalist right to the centre and left. Israel's right-wing opposition Likud party condemned the latest meeting, saying that "concessions dangerous for Israel's security are only a matter of time". (With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian president Abbas makes a rare visit to Israel

There are many who still think Global Warming is just a PR thing and a hoax perpetrated by corporates. But examples of how the hanging sword is changing the planet are too hard to miss. Icebergs are melting, storms are becoming stronger and temperatures are rising even in the most frigid of landscapes.

Area in question is Alaska where the winter month of December has been unusually balmy this time. But what has attracted scientific attention is daytime temperatures going past 15 degrees Celsius.

The temperature may still appear fairly cold to many of us but in Alaska, the region close to the North Pole, this has sent alarm bells ringing.

On Sunday, temperature of 19.4C was recorded on Alaskan island of Kodiak. This is the highest temperature ever recorded in the month of December when winter is supposed to be at its most brutal. The record was shattered in Cold Bay as well where a temperature of 16.6C was recorded. Local scientists have been quoted in media reports to call the temperature spike 'absurd'.

Another notable thing is the rainy spells Alaska has seen this time. Alaskan winter is supposed to be bitter and cold. But rains have piqued interest.

Such phenomena have been observed for decades in Alaska but the warming has been quite pronounced in recent years, say the scientists. The rains and increased temperature have already started to show effect on wildlife.

There are many who still think Global Warming is just a PR thing and a hoax perpetrated by corporates. But examples of how the hanging sword is changing the planet are too hard to miss.

There are many who still think Global Warming is just a PR thing and a hoax perpetrated by corporates. But examples of how the hanging sword is changing the planet are too hard to miss. Icebergs are melting, storms are becoming stronger and temperatures are rising even in the most frigid of landscapes. Area in question is Alaska where the winter month of December has been unusually balmy this time. But what has attracted scientific attention is daytime temperatures going past 15 degrees Celsius. The temperature may still appear fairly cold to many of us but in Alaska, the region close to the North Pole, this has sent alarm bells ringing. On Sunday, temperature of 19.4C was recorded on Alaskan island of Kodiak. This is the highest temperature ever recorded in the month of December when winter is supposed to be at its most brutal. The record was shattered in Cold Bay as well where a temperature of 16.6C was recorded. Local scientists have been quoted in media reports to call the temperature spike 'absurd'. Another notable thing is the rainy spells Alaska has seen this time. Alaskan winter is supposed to be bitter and cold. But rains have piqued interest. Such phenomena have been observed for decades in Alaska but the warming has been quite pronounced in recent years, say the scientists. The rains and increased temperature have already started to show effect on wildlife.

Alaska records warmest-ever December temperature

Omicron threat is still looming over the world but in what looks like a ray of hope, antibodies that neutralise Omicron Covid variant have been identified by the scientists. These antibodies target areas on the structure of the virus that remain unchanged even when the virus mutates.

Research on these antibodies has been published in the journal Nature. It may further help to design vaccines and antibody treatments. These may potentially be effective no only against Omicron but other variants that may emerge in the future.

"This finding tells us that by focusing on antibodies that target these highly conserved sites on the spike protein, there is a way to overcome the virus' continual evolution," said David Veesler, an associate professor at the University of Washington School of Medicine in the US.

The Omicron variant has an unusually high number of 37 mutations in the spike protein, which the virus uses to enter and infect the human cells.

It is thought that these changes explain in part why the variant has been able to spread so rapidly, to infect people who have been vaccinated and to reinfect those who have previously been infected. 
"The main questions we were trying to answer were: how has this constellation of mutations in the spike protein of the Omicron variant affected its ability to bind to cells and to evade the immune system's antibody responses," Veesler said.

To assess the effect of these mutations, the researchers engineered a disabled, nonreplicating virus, called a pseudovirus, to produce spike proteins on its surface, as coronaviruses do.

They then created pseudoviruses that had spike proteins with the Omicron mutations and those found on the earliest variants identified in the pandemic.

The researchers first looked to see how well the different versions of the spike protein were able to bind to protein on the surface of cells, that the virus uses to latch onto and enter the cell. This protein is called the angiotensin converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) receptor.

They found the Omicron variant spike protein was able to bind 2.4 times better than spike protein found in the virus isolated at the very beginning of the pandemic.

"That is not a huge increase but in the SARS outbreak in 2002-2003, mutations in the spike protein that increased affinity were associated with higher transmissibility and infectivity," Veesler noted.

They also found that the Omicron version was able to bind to mouse ACE2 receptors efficiently, suggesting Omicron might be able to "ping-pong" between humans and other mammals.

The researchers then looked at how well antibodies against earlier isolates of the virus protected against the Omicron variant.

They did this by using antibodies from patients who had previously been infected with earlier versions of the virus, vaccinated against earlier strains of the virus, or had been infected and then vaccinated.

The team found that antibodies from people who had been infected by earlier strains and from those who had received one of the six most-used vaccines currently available all had reduced ability to block infection.

Antibodies from people who had been infected, recovered, and then had two doses of vaccine also had reduced activity, but the reduction was less, about fivefold, clearly demonstrating that vaccination after infection is useful.

Antibodies from people, in this case a group of renal dialysis patients, who had received a booster with a third dose of the mRNA vaccines produced by Moderna and Pfizer showed only a 4-fold reduction in neutralising activity.

"This shows that a third dose is really, really helpful against Omicron," Veesler said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Omicron threat is still looming over the world but in what looks like a ray of hope, antibodies that neutralise Omicron Covid variant have been identified by the scientists.

Omicron threat is still looming over the world but in what looks like a ray of hope, antibodies that neutralise Omicron Covid variant have been identified by the scientists. These antibodies target areas on the structure of the virus that remain unchanged even when the virus mutates. Research on these antibodies has been published in the journal Nature. It may further help to design vaccines and antibody treatments. These may potentially be effective no only against Omicron but other variants that may emerge in the future. "This finding tells us that by focusing on antibodies that target these highly conserved sites on the spike protein, there is a way to overcome the virus' continual evolution," said David Veesler, an associate professor at the University of Washington School of Medicine in the US. The Omicron variant has an unusually high number of 37 mutations in the spike protein, which the virus uses to enter and infect the human cells. It is thought that these changes explain in part why the variant has been able to spread so rapidly, to infect people who have been vaccinated and to reinfect those who have previously been infected. "The main questions we were trying to answer were: how has this constellation of mutations in the spike protein of the Omicron variant affected its ability to bind to cells and to evade the immune system's antibody responses," Veesler said. To assess the effect of these mutations, the researchers engineered a disabled, nonreplicating virus, called a pseudovirus, to produce spike proteins on its surface, as coronaviruses do. They then created pseudoviruses that had spike proteins with the Omicron mutations and those found on the earliest variants identified in the pandemic. The researchers first looked to see how well the different versions of the spike protein were able to bind to protein on the surface of cells, that the virus uses to latch onto and enter the cell. This protein is called the angiotensin converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) receptor. They found the Omicron variant spike protein was able to bind 2.4 times better than spike protein found in the virus isolated at the very beginning of the pandemic. "That is not a huge increase but in the SARS outbreak in 2002-2003, mutations in the spike protein that increased affinity were associated with higher transmissibility and infectivity," Veesler noted. They also found that the Omicron version was able to bind to mouse ACE2 receptors efficiently, suggesting Omicron might be able to "ping-pong" between humans and other mammals. The researchers then looked at how well antibodies against earlier isolates of the virus protected against the Omicron variant. They did this by using antibodies from patients who had previously been infected with earlier versions of the virus, vaccinated against earlier strains of the virus, or had been infected and then vaccinated. The team found that antibodies from people who had been infected by earlier strains and from those who had received one of the six most-used vaccines currently available all had reduced ability to block infection. Antibodies from people who had been infected, recovered, and then had two doses of vaccine also had reduced activity, but the reduction was less, about fivefold, clearly demonstrating that vaccination after infection is useful. Antibodies from people, in this case a group of renal dialysis patients, who had received a booster with a third dose of the mRNA vaccines produced by Moderna and Pfizer showed only a 4-fold reduction in neutralising activity. "This shows that a third dose is really, really helpful against Omicron," Veesler said. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists identify antibodies that block Omicron Covid variant

James Web Space Telescope has reached a milestone in its unfolding and this marks start of a crucial phase. James Webb Space Telescope lifted off on December 24 and is now in the phase of unfolding before it can start its function as most powerful eye in the sky of humanity.

On December 28 (Eastern Time), the space telescope deployed its forward and aft pallets. The pallet structures contain Webb's sunshield. Five carefully folded sunshield membranes have been packed inside the afts. Needless to say that delecate components like cables, pulleys and release mechanisms need careful handling.

NASA said that deployment of forward pallet began on the morning of December 28 and concluded at 1:21 pm EST. The aft pallet deployment was complete by 7:27 pm.

Although actual deployment of the pallets from their folded position took less than half an hour, the entire process took hours as series of complicated steps was involved during the deployment.

"The unfolding of the pallets marks the beginning of Webb’s major structural deployments and also the beginning of the sunshield deployment phase – which will continue through at least this Sunday, Jan. 2," says NASA

The James Webb Space Telescope, some three decades and billions of dollars in the making, left Earth on December 24 enclosed in its Ariane 5 rocket from Kourou Space Centre in French Guiana.

It is expected to take a month to reach its remote destination.

It is set to beam back new clues that will help scientists understand more about the origins of the Universe and Earth-like planets beyond our solar system.

Named after a former NASA director, Webb follows in the footsteps of the legendary Hubble -- but intends to show humans what the Universe looked like even closer to its birth nearly 14 billion years ago.

(With inputs from agencies)

James Web Space Telescope has reached a milestone in its unfolding and this marks start of a crucial phase. James Webb Space Telescope lifted off on December 24 and is now in the phase of unfolding before it can start its function as most powerful eye in the sky of humanity.

James Web Space Telescope has reached a milestone in its unfolding and this marks start of a crucial phase. James Webb Space Telescope lifted off on December 24 and is now in the phase of unfolding before it can start its function as most powerful eye in the sky of humanity. On December 28 (Eastern Time), the space telescope deployed its forward and aft pallets. The pallet structures contain Webb's sunshield. Five carefully folded sunshield membranes have been packed inside the afts. Needless to say that delecate components like cables, pulleys and release mechanisms need careful handling. NASA said that deployment of forward pallet began on the morning of December 28 and concluded at 1:21 pm EST. The aft pallet deployment was complete by 7:27 pm. Although actual deployment of the pallets from their folded position took less than half an hour, the entire process took hours as series of complicated steps was involved during the deployment. "The unfolding of the pallets marks the beginning of Webb’s major structural deployments and also the beginning of the sunshield deployment phase – which will continue through at least this Sunday, Jan. 2," says NASA The James Webb Space Telescope, some three decades and billions of dollars in the making, left Earth on December 24 enclosed in its Ariane 5 rocket from Kourou Space Centre in French Guiana. It is expected to take a month to reach its remote destination. It is set to beam back new clues that will help scientists understand more about the origins of the Universe and Earth-like planets beyond our solar system. Named after a former NASA director, Webb follows in the footsteps of the legendary Hubble -- but intends to show humans what the Universe looked like even closer to its birth nearly 14 billion years ago. (With inputs from agencies)

James Webb Space Telescope deploys pallets, crucial process begins

Libyan parliament on Monday refused to fix date for presidential elections that were to take place last week. This has created uncertainty about the polls.&nbsp;

The vote was set to take place on Friday. It was to be the culmination of United Nations-led efforts to drag Libya out of a decade of conflict since a 2011 revolt. But it was derailed by bitter arguments over divisive candidates and a disputed legal framework.

On Monday the parliamentary committee charged with overseeing the election presented a report saying it would be risky to set a new date at this stage.

That was a direct rebuff to the electoral commission which had suggested holding the vote on January 24.

The parliamentary committee is part of an assembly based in eastern Libya since 2014, reflecting the country's deep divisions.

The committee recommended laying out "a new, realistic and applicable roadmap, with defined stages, rather than fixing new dates and repeating the same errors".

The report, read to members of parliament by committee president Al-Haid al-Sghayer, also suggested setting up a committee to draft a new constitution to replace the one scrapped by dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 1969.

It also called for a reshuffle of the interim government of Abdulhamid Dbeibah, whose mandate was meant to end with Friday's elections. 
The parliament has yet to debate the proposals.

Dbeibah heads a unity administration based in the capital Tripoli, in the country's west, and which was tasked with leading the North African country to the elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

Libyan parliament on Monday refused to fix date for presidential elections that were to take place last week. This has created uncertainty about the polls. The vote was set to take place on Friday.

Libyan parliament on Monday refused to fix date for presidential elections that were to take place last week. This has created uncertainty about the polls. The vote was set to take place on Friday. It was to be the culmination of United Nations-led efforts to drag Libya out of a decade of conflict since a 2011 revolt. But it was derailed by bitter arguments over divisive candidates and a disputed legal framework. On Monday the parliamentary committee charged with overseeing the election presented a report saying it would be risky to set a new date at this stage. That was a direct rebuff to the electoral commission which had suggested holding the vote on January 24. The parliamentary committee is part of an assembly based in eastern Libya since 2014, reflecting the country's deep divisions. The committee recommended laying out "a new, realistic and applicable roadmap, with defined stages, rather than fixing new dates and repeating the same errors". The report, read to members of parliament by committee president Al-Haid al-Sghayer, also suggested setting up a committee to draft a new constitution to replace the one scrapped by dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 1969. It also called for a reshuffle of the interim government of Abdulhamid Dbeibah, whose mandate was meant to end with Friday's elections. The parliament has yet to debate the proposals. Dbeibah heads a unity administration based in the capital Tripoli, in the country's west, and which was tasked with leading the North African country to the elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Libyan parliament refuses to declare new date for delayed elections

“The trees snapped like matchsticks.”

Ed Boysillo, 54, a municipal worker in Ubay, in the central Philippine province of Bohol, was describing the fearsome power of Super Typhoon Rai. The storm made its first landfall Dec. 16, bringing torrential rains and packing winds up to 168 mph, comparable to a Category 5 hurricane.

It blew away buildings, swelled rivers to overflow and forced more than 7 million people to flee their homes. It cut off power, water and communications, and damaged critical infrastructure.

As of Monday morning, the storm had killed 389 people, injured 1,146 others and left 65 missing, official figures show. More than half a million people were still in evacuation centers or staying with friends and relatives.

The smell of death hung in the air in Bohol, where a family emerged from the wreckage to try to salvage a door festooned with Christmas decorations. An inflatable Santa Claus that had survived the lashing winds swayed forlornly in the air, its affable face a striking contrast to the destruction.

Antero Ramos, 68, who is from the village of Casare in Ubay, lost his wife, Tarsila Ramos, 61, and two of his daughters, Nita, 37, and Nenita, 28, in the storm.

“My wife decided that we should evacuate, so we decided to shelter in the bodega we used to store rice,” he said. “But as soon as we entered, the bodega collapsed on us,” he said.

The bodega’s caretaker also died.

“This is a very sad Christmas,” Ramos said. “We had to bury them immediately because the funeral parlor could not get to the bodega because of the debris that was still on the roads.”

Rai, the international name for the storm (the local name is Odette), was the 15th typhoon to hit the country this year. The storm made eight more landfalls in multiple regions before veering away.

The Philippines sits on a typhoon belt and typically gets about 20 storms a year. After Rai’s devastation, the country’s Climate Change Commission called for urgent action at the local level “to build community resilience against extreme climate-related events and minimize loss and damage.”

“As the level of global warming continues to increase,” it said in a statement last week, “these extreme weather events and other climate impacts are becoming severe, and may be irreversible, threatening to further set back our growth as a nation.”

In Bohol, where many of the storm deaths were recorded, overturned vehicles were piled up on the side of the highway and in fields Monday. Trees and debris littered the terrain. Many of the deaths had occurred in coastal areas inundated by storm surges or where people had been crushed by houses that crumbled in the wind. Everywhere, people could be seen scouring the ruins of homes to salvage what was left of their old lives.

On a highway leading to Ubay, near a bay in Bohol, survivors of the storm had scrawled, “Help us,” a desperate plea to passing helicopters and airplanes.

Officials warned that residents in remote areas were running out of food. Countries such as the United States, Canada, China and South Korea have pledged aid. A United Nations agency called for $107.2 million “to support the government in responding to the most urgent humanitarian needs for the next six months.”

Bohol Gov. Arthur Yap has sought donations to purchase food and other relief items. An early appeal brought in generators, but fuel is now a coveted commodity.

“Many bought generators, and that tripled the demand for gasoline,” Yap told reporters Friday. “That’s the reason why we have long lines at the gasoline stations.”

Ananisa Guinanas, 27, went to get gasoline Friday in Ubay with her 3-year-old daughter. Police officers were guarding the site.

“We have been lining up for the past seven hours,” she said. “I brought my daughter because I couldn’t leave her. Our house was destroyed. We desperately need gasoline for the motorcycle we would use to look for water.”

After the storm, the Loboc River turned brown from mud and debris.

Nilo Rivera, 34, said his and his mother-in-law’s houses were quickly swept away by the river’s rampaging waters once the storm hit.

“The water reached up to the second floor of our homes,” he said, pointing to a water line beside a structure left standing after the muddy water subsided.

They were living in a makeshift tent.

Bohol is also no stranger to calamities. A powerful quake destroyed one of its churches in October 2013 and severely damaged infrastructure. Casualties were low because the temblor had struck on a holiday.

A month later, Super Typhoon Haiyan, the most powerful storm to make landfall in the country’s recorded history, devastated huge swaths of the Philippines and left 6,500 dead or missing.

Frederic Soupart, the owner of the Fox and the Firefly resort in Bohol, said he believes that Rai was worse than Haiyan. Rai left destruction everywhere as it exited through the Palawan Islands, in the western Philippines. Parts of his resort were buried in waist-deep muck.

“I’ve never seen any flooding like this,” he said, estimating that damage from the storm would cost millions of Philippine pesos to repair. His resort is next to the Loboc River, and he and his staff had to shovel mud from the property.

“It doesn’t feel like Christmas,” Soupart said. “I was buying stuff at the hardware store, and the Christmas songs annoyed me.”

Cleanup operations have been slow, although the Philippine military had deployed engineering crews to help rebuild. Electricity and telecommunications had yet to be restored in Bohol and in many other areas.

In Siargao, a surfing destination on the northeastern tip of Mindanao Island, east of Bohol, no structure was left standing or spared damage.

The government evacuated dozens of foreign tourists and Filipinos on a military plane. But some chose to stay behind to help rebuild.

Vice President Leni Robredo, who was among the first national officials to reach devastated sites, said Friday in a Christmas message, “Hope is found in togetherness.”

Many Filipinos sought comfort in the church. Priests appealed for calm as the national government scrambled to get aid to residents. Worshippers in Bohol used flashlights and candles to hold Mass at dawn.

Donn De Lima, 44, was among dozens from the Santo Niño Parish in Ubay who attended Mass on Christmas Eve. It was raining hard, and the roof of the church leaked.

“This Christmas is sad because my home was heavily damaged,” he said. After Mass, his family planned to share a simple meal under a rechargeable flashlight.

Others were not as lucky.

Alicia Nemenzo, 48, and her daughter Mavel Nemenzo, 21, spent Christmas Eve sheltering in a tiny roadside store after the storm wrecked their home. Their only source of light was a flickering candle.

“When it rains now, we get frightened,” she said. “I think we all were traumatized by this typhoon.”

“The trees snapped like matchsticks.” Ed Boysillo, 54, a municipal worker in Ubay, in the central Philippine province of Bohol, was describing the fearsome power of Super Typhoon Rai.

“The trees snapped like matchsticks.” Ed Boysillo, 54, a municipal worker in Ubay, in the central Philippine province of Bohol, was describing the fearsome power of Super Typhoon Rai. The storm made its first landfall Dec. 16, bringing torrential rains and packing winds up to 168 mph, comparable to a Category 5 hurricane. It blew away buildings, swelled rivers to overflow and forced more than 7 million people to flee their homes. It cut off power, water and communications, and damaged critical infrastructure. As of Monday morning, the storm had killed 389 people, injured 1,146 others and left 65 missing, official figures show. More than half a million people were still in evacuation centers or staying with friends and relatives. The smell of death hung in the air in Bohol, where a family emerged from the wreckage to try to salvage a door festooned with Christmas decorations. An inflatable Santa Claus that had survived the lashing winds swayed forlornly in the air, its affable face a striking contrast to the destruction. Antero Ramos, 68, who is from the village of Casare in Ubay, lost his wife, Tarsila Ramos, 61, and two of his daughters, Nita, 37, and Nenita, 28, in the storm. “My wife decided that we should evacuate, so we decided to shelter in the bodega we used to store rice,” he said. “But as soon as we entered, the bodega collapsed on us,” he said. The bodega’s caretaker also died. “This is a very sad Christmas,” Ramos said. “We had to bury them immediately because the funeral parlor could not get to the bodega because of the debris that was still on the roads.” Rai, the international name for the storm (the local name is Odette), was the 15th typhoon to hit the country this year. The storm made eight more landfalls in multiple regions before veering away. The Philippines sits on a typhoon belt and typically gets about 20 storms a year. After Rai’s devastation, the country’s Climate Change Commission called for urgent action at the local level “to build community resilience against extreme climate-related events and minimize loss and damage.” “As the level of global warming continues to increase,” it said in a statement last week, “these extreme weather events and other climate impacts are becoming severe, and may be irreversible, threatening to further set back our growth as a nation.” In Bohol, where many of the storm deaths were recorded, overturned vehicles were piled up on the side of the highway and in fields Monday. Trees and debris littered the terrain. Many of the deaths had occurred in coastal areas inundated by storm surges or where people had been crushed by houses that crumbled in the wind. Everywhere, people could be seen scouring the ruins of homes to salvage what was left of their old lives. On a highway leading to Ubay, near a bay in Bohol, survivors of the storm had scrawled, “Help us,” a desperate plea to passing helicopters and airplanes. Officials warned that residents in remote areas were running out of food. Countries such as the United States, Canada, China and South Korea have pledged aid. A United Nations agency called for $107.2 million “to support the government in responding to the most urgent humanitarian needs for the next six months.” Bohol Gov. Arthur Yap has sought donations to purchase food and other relief items. An early appeal brought in generators, but fuel is now a coveted commodity. “Many bought generators, and that tripled the demand for gasoline,” Yap told reporters Friday. “That’s the reason why we have long lines at the gasoline stations.” Ananisa Guinanas, 27, went to get gasoline Friday in Ubay with her 3-year-old daughter. Police officers were guarding the site. “We have been lining up for the past seven hours,” she said. “I brought my daughter because I couldn’t leave her. Our house was destroyed. We desperately need gasoline for the motorcycle we would use to look for water.” After the storm, the Loboc River turned brown from mud and debris. Nilo Rivera, 34, said his and his mother-in-law’s houses were quickly swept away by the river’s rampaging waters once the storm hit. “The water reached up to the second floor of our homes,” he said, pointing to a water line beside a structure left standing after the muddy water subsided. They were living in a makeshift tent. Bohol is also no stranger to calamities. A powerful quake destroyed one of its churches in October 2013 and severely damaged infrastructure. Casualties were low because the temblor had struck on a holiday. A month later, Super Typhoon Haiyan, the most powerful storm to make landfall in the country’s recorded history, devastated huge swaths of the Philippines and left 6,500 dead or missing. Frederic Soupart, the owner of the Fox and the Firefly resort in Bohol, said he believes that Rai was worse than Haiyan. Rai left destruction everywhere as it exited through the Palawan Islands, in the western Philippines. Parts of his resort were buried in waist-deep muck. “I’ve never seen any flooding like this,” he said, estimating that damage from the storm would cost millions of Philippine pesos to repair. His resort is next to the Loboc River, and he and his staff had to shovel mud from the property. “It doesn’t feel like Christmas,” Soupart said. “I was buying stuff at the hardware store, and the Christmas songs annoyed me.” Cleanup operations have been slow, although the Philippine military had deployed engineering crews to help rebuild. Electricity and telecommunications had yet to be restored in Bohol and in many other areas. In Siargao, a surfing destination on the northeastern tip of Mindanao Island, east of Bohol, no structure was left standing or spared damage. The government evacuated dozens of foreign tourists and Filipinos on a military plane. But some chose to stay behind to help rebuild. Vice President Leni Robredo, who was among the first national officials to reach devastated sites, said Friday in a Christmas message, “Hope is found in togetherness.” Many Filipinos sought comfort in the church. Priests appealed for calm as the national government scrambled to get aid to residents. Worshippers in Bohol used flashlights and candles to hold Mass at dawn. Donn De Lima, 44, was among dozens from the Santo Niño Parish in Ubay who attended Mass on Christmas Eve. It was raining hard, and the roof of the church leaked. “This Christmas is sad because my home was heavily damaged,” he said. After Mass, his family planned to share a simple meal under a rechargeable flashlight. Others were not as lucky. Alicia Nemenzo, 48, and her daughter Mavel Nemenzo, 21, spent Christmas Eve sheltering in a tiny roadside store after the storm wrecked their home. Their only source of light was a flickering candle. “When it rains now, we get frightened,” she said. “I think we all were traumatized by this typhoon.”

‘Help us’: After Typhoon Rai, miles of destruction and the smell of death

A day after a controversy broke out over the Central government refusing to renew the Missionaries of Charity's license to accept foreign donations, top officials of the organisation said work in its orphanages, hospices and shelters for the poor were "going on as usual."

Officials from the Mission, founded by Mother Teresa here in 1950, said that talks were on with auditors and experts to try and resolve the situation, indicating an appeal against the Centre's decision to cancel the license under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act would be made.&nbsp;

"Work in all our orphanages, shelters, homes are going on as usual," the official said, adding that "in India we have been sustaining all these years with love and support of people in this country. So we will continue to serve the poor, destitute, ailing, aged with the same gusto in the same way."&nbsp;

A large portion of the money spent in India comes from donations sourced locally, officials said while pleading ignorance of the exact amounts received as donation locally or through foreign donations.&nbsp;

The MoC headquartered in Kolkata has over 250 bank accounts in the country for utilising foreign funds, another official of the organisation said.&nbsp;

"We are in talks with experts and auditors to resolve the situation," the official said. MHA said in a statement on Monday that renewal of the FCRA license was refused on December 25, Christmas day, for not meeting eligibility conditions, indicating that there issues with its audit report.&nbsp;

The Ministry also said 'no request has been received from Missionaries of Charity for review of this refusal of renewal.'

The cancellation order came within weeks after a police complaint was registered against the director of a children's home run by the Missionaries of Charity in Gujarat for allegedly attempting to convert inmates. The late Mother Teresa who was who was canonised a Saint in September 2016, and the Missionaries of Charity which she founded, shot into prominence after she won the Ramon Magsasay Peace Prize in 1962 and the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979.

The organisation today is spread over 139 countries and runs orphanages, homes for the dying and lepers besides looking after refugees, blind, disabled, aged, alcoholics, poor and homeless and victims of floods, epidemics and famine.

A day after a controversy broke out over the Central government refusing to renew the Missionaries of Charity's license to accept foreign donations, top officials of the organisation said work in its orphanages, hospices and shelters for the poor were "going on as usual.

A day after a controversy broke out over the Central government refusing to renew the Missionaries of Charity's license to accept foreign donations, top officials of the organisation said work in its orphanages, hospices and shelters for the poor were "going on as usual." Officials from the Mission, founded by Mother Teresa here in 1950, said that talks were on with auditors and experts to try and resolve the situation, indicating an appeal against the Centre's decision to cancel the license under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act would be made. "Work in all our orphanages, shelters, homes are going on as usual," the official said, adding that "in India we have been sustaining all these years with love and support of people in this country. So we will continue to serve the poor, destitute, ailing, aged with the same gusto in the same way." A large portion of the money spent in India comes from donations sourced locally, officials said while pleading ignorance of the exact amounts received as donation locally or through foreign donations. The MoC headquartered in Kolkata has over 250 bank accounts in the country for utilising foreign funds, another official of the organisation said. "We are in talks with experts and auditors to resolve the situation," the official said. MHA said in a statement on Monday that renewal of the FCRA license was refused on December 25, Christmas day, for not meeting eligibility conditions, indicating that there issues with its audit report. The Ministry also said 'no request has been received from Missionaries of Charity for review of this refusal of renewal.' The cancellation order came within weeks after a police complaint was registered against the director of a children's home run by the Missionaries of Charity in Gujarat for allegedly attempting to convert inmates. The late Mother Teresa who was who was canonised a Saint in September 2016, and the Missionaries of Charity which she founded, shot into prominence after she won the Ramon Magsasay Peace Prize in 1962 and the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. The organisation today is spread over 139 countries and runs orphanages, homes for the dying and lepers besides looking after refugees, blind, disabled, aged, alcoholics, poor and homeless and victims of floods, epidemics and famine.

Missionaries of Charity says 'work as usual to continue', talking to resolve FCRA issue

Volcanic eruptions are as beautiful to watch as they are destructive to people living around the volcano. If a natural phenomenon on Earth can be so remarkable, what about celestial eruptions? To be more precise, what about eruptions taking place from a black hole?

Black holes are intriguing space objects. They have such powerful gravity that even light cannot escape from it. But eruptions do take place from black holes and scientists have been able to capture an image of one such eruption.

The black hole in question is at the centre of Centaurus A, the nearest radio galaxy closest to our own Milky Way. The galaxy is 12 million light years away from us.&nbsp;

The black hole is still feeding. This means that the surrounding gas is still falling inside it. As the black hole gobbles up gas, it ejects material that nearly travels at the speed of light. This causes 'radio bubbles' to form.

This eruption and the radio waves have been caught by Murchison Widefield Array (MWA) telescope in Western Australia.

“These radio waves come from material being sucked into the supermassive black hole in the middle of the galaxy,” said Dr. Benjamin McKinley, lead author of the study. He was quoted by ScieTechDaily.&nbsp;

“It forms a disc around the black hole, and as the matter gets ripped apart going close to the black hole, powerful jets form on either side of the disc, ejecting most of the material back out into space, to distances of probably more than a million light years"

Research on this black hole eruption was published in journal Nature Astronomy on December 22, 2021.

Volcanic eruptions are as beautiful to watch as they are destructive to people living around the volcano. If a natural phenomenon on Earth can be so remarkable, what about celestial eruptions?

Volcanic eruptions are as beautiful to watch as they are destructive to people living around the volcano. If a natural phenomenon on Earth can be so remarkable, what about celestial eruptions? To be more precise, what about eruptions taking place from a black hole? Black holes are intriguing space objects. They have such powerful gravity that even light cannot escape from it. But eruptions do take place from black holes and scientists have been able to capture an image of one such eruption. The black hole in question is at the centre of Centaurus A, the nearest radio galaxy closest to our own Milky Way. The galaxy is 12 million light years away from us. The black hole is still feeding. This means that the surrounding gas is still falling inside it. As the black hole gobbles up gas, it ejects material that nearly travels at the speed of light. This causes 'radio bubbles' to form. This eruption and the radio waves have been caught by Murchison Widefield Array (MWA) telescope in Western Australia. “These radio waves come from material being sucked into the supermassive black hole in the middle of the galaxy,” said Dr. Benjamin McKinley, lead author of the study. He was quoted by ScieTechDaily. “It forms a disc around the black hole, and as the matter gets ripped apart going close to the black hole, powerful jets form on either side of the disc, ejecting most of the material back out into space, to distances of probably more than a million light years" Research on this black hole eruption was published in journal Nature Astronomy on December 22, 2021.

Astronomers capture an erupting black hole 12 million light-years from Earth

Iran said on Tuesday (December 28) that revival of 2015 nuclear deal was possible if other parties showed 'good faith' and 'seriousness'. It said that the talks were going in right direction.

"We believe that if other parties continue the round of talks which just started with good faith, reaching a good agreement for all parties is possible," Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian told reporters.

Iran and the US resumed indirect talks on Monday. Iran is focussed on one side of the bargain that involves lifting of sanctions against it. Critics say that there has been scant progress on the Iranian side on reining in its atomic activities.

A nuclear deal was reached with Iran by the US and other world powers including Russia in 2015. It restricted Iran's nuclear program. The deal unravelled in 2018 when former US President Donald Trump unilaterally took US out of the deal and reimposed crippling sanctions on Iran. The talks to revive the nuclear deal have been going on in Vienna. The discussions were on pause for a few months before reconvened.

The opening of the eighth round of the talks involves delegations from Iran and the other countries that remain party to the landmark accord -- Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia.

The goal of the 2015 agreement was to make it practically impossible for Iran to build an atomic bomb, while allowing it to pursue a civilian nuclear programme.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran said on Tuesday (December 28) that revival of 2015 nuclear deal was possible if other parties showed 'good faith' and 'seriousness'. It said that the talks were going in right direction.

Iran said on Tuesday (December 28) that revival of 2015 nuclear deal was possible if other parties showed 'good faith' and 'seriousness'. It said that the talks were going in right direction. "We believe that if other parties continue the round of talks which just started with good faith, reaching a good agreement for all parties is possible," Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian told reporters. Iran and the US resumed indirect talks on Monday. Iran is focussed on one side of the bargain that involves lifting of sanctions against it. Critics say that there has been scant progress on the Iranian side on reining in its atomic activities. A nuclear deal was reached with Iran by the US and other world powers including Russia in 2015. It restricted Iran's nuclear program. The deal unravelled in 2018 when former US President Donald Trump unilaterally took US out of the deal and reimposed crippling sanctions on Iran. The talks to revive the nuclear deal have been going on in Vienna. The discussions were on pause for a few months before reconvened. The opening of the eighth round of the talks involves delegations from Iran and the other countries that remain party to the landmark accord -- Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia. The goal of the 2015 agreement was to make it practically impossible for Iran to build an atomic bomb, while allowing it to pursue a civilian nuclear programme. (With inputs from agencies)

Nuclear talks can succeed with 'good faith': Iran

After meeting Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday over demands to expedite NEET-PG Counselling, the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) said that they will take the final call on ongoing protest after consulting all RDAs (Resident Doctors' Associations).

The representatives of Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA), FORDA and all RDAs are likely to hold a meeting at 8 p.m. on Tuesday to decide further course of action.

Dr Manish Nigam, FORDA President, said that the strike is still going on.

"We demand a written apology for police action. The further course of action will be decided in the meeting tonight," he added.

Earlier, Mandaviya urged protesting resident doctors to call off their strike in the public interest. According to a doctor who was present in the meeting, Mandaviya assured to submit all documents before the court on January 6 when the matter will come up for hearing. He said that the matter is sub-judice before the Supreme Court. However, he said he was hopeful that the NEET-PG counselling will start soon.

The doctors also demanded an apology from police for action against them during the protest on Monday. Mandaviya expressed regret saying it is an unfortunate incident.

Meanwhile, the ongoing doctors protest for the last 12 days has badly hit services in the capital city. Many other RDA organisations across several states have also joined the protest. The protesting doctors on Monday had called for total shutdown of medical services in the hospitals after the police action which has created a chaos like situation in hospitals.

After meeting Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday over demands to expedite NEET-PG Counselling, the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) said that they will take the final call on ongoing protest after consulting all RDAs (Resident Doctors' Associations).

After meeting Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday over demands to expedite NEET-PG Counselling, the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) said that they will take the final call on ongoing protest after consulting all RDAs (Resident Doctors' Associations). The representatives of Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA), FORDA and all RDAs are likely to hold a meeting at 8 p.m. on Tuesday to decide further course of action. Dr Manish Nigam, FORDA President, said that the strike is still going on. "We demand a written apology for police action. The further course of action will be decided in the meeting tonight," he added. Earlier, Mandaviya urged protesting resident doctors to call off their strike in the public interest. According to a doctor who was present in the meeting, Mandaviya assured to submit all documents before the court on January 6 when the matter will come up for hearing. He said that the matter is sub-judice before the Supreme Court. However, he said he was hopeful that the NEET-PG counselling will start soon. The doctors also demanded an apology from police for action against them during the protest on Monday. Mandaviya expressed regret saying it is an unfortunate incident. Meanwhile, the ongoing doctors protest for the last 12 days has badly hit services in the capital city. Many other RDA organisations across several states have also joined the protest. The protesting doctors on Monday had called for total shutdown of medical services in the hospitals after the police action which has created a chaos like situation in hospitals.

Protesting doctors in India to take final call after association meeting

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Manas Joshi

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