US President Joe Biden's global reputation may have got a hit after Afghanistan and those overjoyed at the time of him trouncing Trump may be in two minds now, but there was one thing he was always famous for.

Making silly mistakes while speaking publicly.

The gaffe-prone Biden has added one more to his list as he misgendered Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, a woman, by addressing her 'Mr mayor'

Biden was in the state to call on private employers to make Covid vaccines mandatory for their employees. Throughout his televised appearance, he was seen stumbling his lines. But the most prominent of his mistakes came when his addressed Lori Lightfoot 'Mr Mayor'.

"Mr Mayor, thanks for the passport into town," he was quoted as saying by UK news outlest Express.

He blunders did not stop there. During the same speech he struggled while recalling President of Illinois' State Senate Don Harmon's name.

The list of gaffes for one day was yet to finish and Biden confused the words 'television' and 'telephone' and said that he was on television instead of saying he was on phone.

This is not the first time Joe Biden has made mistakes when speaking publicly.

He forgot Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison's name recently and regarded him as "that fellow down under".

The occassion was announcement of the AUKUS alliance which forges deep security ties between the US, Australia and the UK.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden's global reputation may have got a hit after Afghanistan and those overjoyed at the time of him trouncing Trump may be in two minds now, but there was one thing he was always famous for.

US President Joe Biden's global reputation may have got a hit after Afghanistan and those overjoyed at the time of him trouncing Trump may be in two minds now, but there was one thing he was always famous for. Making silly mistakes while speaking publicly. The gaffe-prone Biden has added one more to his list as he misgendered Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, a woman, by addressing her 'Mr mayor' Biden was in the state to call on private employers to make Covid vaccines mandatory for their employees. Throughout his televised appearance, he was seen stumbling his lines. But the most prominent of his mistakes came when his addressed Lori Lightfoot 'Mr Mayor'. "Mr Mayor, thanks for the passport into town," he was quoted as saying by UK news outlest Express. He blunders did not stop there. During the same speech he struggled while recalling President of Illinois' State Senate Don Harmon's name. The list of gaffes for one day was yet to finish and Biden confused the words 'television' and 'telephone' and said that he was on television instead of saying he was on phone. This is not the first time Joe Biden has made mistakes when speaking publicly. He forgot Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison's name recently and regarded him as "that fellow down under". The occassion was announcement of the AUKUS alliance which forges deep security ties between the US, Australia and the UK.

Biden at it again, addresses woman mayor of Chicago as 'Mr Mayor'

Poland's highest court on Thursday ruled that some part of European Union treaties were incompatible with constitution of Poland. This has escalated tension between Poland and European Union as the ruling challenges a pillar of European integration.&nbsp;

Poland's Law and Justice (PiS) party government is embroiled in a battle of values with Brussels, focused on disputes over the independence of courts, media freedoms, LGBT rights and other issues.

Those who criticise Poland's stance say that such a path is not good for Poland's long term future. It also undermines European Union's stability especially after Brexit.

However, PiS denies this and says it has no plans for a "Polexit".

Poland's Constitutional Tribunal took on the case after Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki asked it whether EU institutions could stop Poland from reorganising its judiciary.

On Thursday, Judge Bartlomiej Sochanski said: "The EU Treaty is subordinate to the constitution in the Polish legal system ... and, like any part of the Polish legal system, it must comply with the constitution."

Polish court's verdict was welcomed by the country's Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki &nbsp;

"We want a community of respect and not a grouping of those who are equal and more equal. This is our community, our Union," he said in a Facebook post, referring to the European Union.

"This is the kind of Union we want and that's the kind of Union we will create," Morawiecki said in the post published in the early hours of Friday.

He also said that Poland wants to stay in the "European family of nations."

EU displeased

EU Justice Commissioner &nbsp;Didier Reynders as a reaction to Polish court's ruling, said that the European Commission will use all the "tools at its disposal" to ensure the primacy of EU law in Poland.

Poland's highest court on Thursday ruled that some part of European Union treaties were incompatible with constitution of Poland. This has escalated tension between Poland and European Union as the ruling challenges a pillar of European integration.

Poland's highest court on Thursday ruled that some part of European Union treaties were incompatible with constitution of Poland. This has escalated tension between Poland and European Union as the ruling challenges a pillar of European integration. Poland's Law and Justice (PiS) party government is embroiled in a battle of values with Brussels, focused on disputes over the independence of courts, media freedoms, LGBT rights and other issues. Those who criticise Poland's stance say that such a path is not good for Poland's long term future. It also undermines European Union's stability especially after Brexit. However, PiS denies this and says it has no plans for a "Polexit". Poland's Constitutional Tribunal took on the case after Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki asked it whether EU institutions could stop Poland from reorganising its judiciary. On Thursday, Judge Bartlomiej Sochanski said: "The EU Treaty is subordinate to the constitution in the Polish legal system ... and, like any part of the Polish legal system, it must comply with the constitution." Polish court's verdict was welcomed by the country's Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki "We want a community of respect and not a grouping of those who are equal and more equal. This is our community, our Union," he said in a Facebook post, referring to the European Union. "This is the kind of Union we want and that's the kind of Union we will create," Morawiecki said in the post published in the early hours of Friday. He also said that Poland wants to stay in the "European family of nations." EU displeased EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders as a reaction to Polish court's ruling, said that the European Commission will use all the "tools at its disposal" to ensure the primacy of EU law in Poland.

Polish court calls parts of EU law unconstitutional, dispute escalates

US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction John Sopko on Wednesday, said that the office will look into accusations that former Afghanistan president Ashraf Ghani fled the country with large sums of money. Ghani has denied the reports but speculation persists

Ashraf Ghani fled Kabul as Taliban closed in on the outskirts of the Afghan capital in August. He was bitterly criticised for his action.

Now, the US Congress has instructed Sopko's team to look into the claims of Ghani fleeing with a lot of money.

"We haven't proven that yet. We're looking into that. Actually, the Oversight and Government Reform Committee has asked us to look into that," Sopko told a House of Representatives subcommittee.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/he-smashed-the-idol-of-somnath-taliban-leader-anas-haqqani-praises-mahmud-ghaznavi-418613">'He smashed the idol of Somnath': Taliban leader Anas Haqqani praises Mahmud Ghaznavi</a>

Sopko's Office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) has long been investigating fraud, waste and abuse during America's massive state-building effort, which came to an ignoble end after 20 years with the Taliban takeover.

Sopko suggested to the House Foreign Affairs Committee subcommittee that oversees development aid that the failure of the U.S. project shouldn't have been a surprise, given rampant corruption and mismanagement.

"Corruption grew so pervasive that it ultimately threatened the security and reconstruction mission in Afghanistan," he told the House panel.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/1-million-afghan-children-at-risk-of-dying-due-to-acute-malnutrition-un-officials-418603">1 million Afghan children at risk of dying due to acute malnutrition: UN officials</a>

The congressional hearing was one in the series of hearings looking at US withdrawal from Afghanistan which caused utter mayhem and paved path for return of Taliban.

"We can apply the lessons learned in other conflict zones," Representative Joaquin Castro, the subcommittee's Democratic chairman, said.

The United States and other countries have cut off almost all aid to Afghanistan.

"These are trying times for all of us who care about the future of the Afghan people, especially the Afghans that aided the US and its allies over the past 20 years," Sopko said.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction John Sopko on Wednesday, said that the office will look into accusations that former Afghanistan president Ashraf Ghani fled the country with large sums of money.

US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction John Sopko on Wednesday, said that the office will look into accusations that former Afghanistan president Ashraf Ghani fled the country with large sums of money. Ghani has denied the reports but speculation persists Ashraf Ghani fled Kabul as Taliban closed in on the outskirts of the Afghan capital in August. He was bitterly criticised for his action. Now, the US Congress has instructed Sopko's team to look into the claims of Ghani fleeing with a lot of money. "We haven't proven that yet. We're looking into that. Actually, the Oversight and Government Reform Committee has asked us to look into that," Sopko told a House of Representatives subcommittee. Also Read | 'He smashed the idol of Somnath': Taliban leader Anas Haqqani praises Mahmud Ghaznavi Sopko's Office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) has long been investigating fraud, waste and abuse during America's massive state-building effort, which came to an ignoble end after 20 years with the Taliban takeover. Sopko suggested to the House Foreign Affairs Committee subcommittee that oversees development aid that the failure of the U.S. project shouldn't have been a surprise, given rampant corruption and mismanagement. "Corruption grew so pervasive that it ultimately threatened the security and reconstruction mission in Afghanistan," he told the House panel. Also Read | 1 million Afghan children at risk of dying due to acute malnutrition: UN officials The congressional hearing was one in the series of hearings looking at US withdrawal from Afghanistan which caused utter mayhem and paved path for return of Taliban. "We can apply the lessons learned in other conflict zones," Representative Joaquin Castro, the subcommittee's Democratic chairman, said. The United States and other countries have cut off almost all aid to Afghanistan. "These are trying times for all of us who care about the future of the Afghan people, especially the Afghans that aided the US and its allies over the past 20 years," Sopko said. (With inputs from agencies)

Did Ashraf Ghani flee Afghanistan with a lot of money? US watchdog to investigate

Philippines Vice President Leni Robredo, an arch-rival of President Rodrigo Duterte and staunch critic of his deadly drug war, said Thursday she will run for the top job, becoming the leading opposition candidate in a crowded election field.

Robredo has been under pressure from supporters and opposition groups to join the 2022 presidential race, but she has been well behind the front runners in opinion polls.

Analysts say the even-tempered former congresswoman could struggle.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-duterte-says-will-retire-from-politics-417602">Philippines' Duterte says will retire from politics</a>

"I will fight, we will fight," Robredo, 56, said, declaring herself a presidential candidate.

"We will defeat the archaic and rotten style of politics."

President and vice president are elected separately in the Philippines. Robredo quit Duterte's cabinet less than six months after he was sworn in, after a presidential aide told her she had been barred from its meetings.

Her decision comes after her nemesis Ferdinand Marcos Jr, son and namesake of the country's former dictator, said Tuesday he would run for the top job.

Robredo narrowly defeated Marcos Jr for the nation's second-highest office in 2016, dealing a blow to the political aspirations of the powerful clan as they sought to rehabilitate their image.

Marcos Jr -- an ally of Duterte and a defender of the narcotics crackdown that has killed thousands of people -- fought a nearly five-year legal battle challenging the vote, but lost in February when the Supreme Court rejected the protest.

Marcos Jr was in second place behind Duterte's daughter, Sara, in a recent Pulse Asia Research poll, though she has denied plans to run.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-duterte-to-prepare-defence-against-icc-probe-418279">Philippines' Duterte to prepare defence against ICC probe</a>

Robredo was a distant sixth, trailing boxing great Manny Pacquiao and celebrity mayor Francisco Domagoso, who have confirmed they will seek the presidency; and Senator Grace Poe, who has not.

Most of the top candidates have supported the drug war, which is being investigated by the International Criminal Court as a possible crime against humanity.

- 'All my strength' -

Robredo, originally a lawyer for the disadvantaged, rose to fame as the wife of Jesse Robredo, a respected cabinet member in former president Benigno Aquino's administration.

When her husband died in a plane crash in 2012, public clamour encouraged her to enter politics.

Robredo, who has three daughters, served a single term in the House of Representatives before her successful bid for the vice presidency.

"My promise is to give all my strength, not only until the election but until the very end to fight for the Philippines that we dream of," Robredo said Thursday.

University of the Philippines political science professor Jean Franco told AFP: "It is going to be an uphill climb but her running sends a strong statement in itself that there is a genuine opposition to Duterte and the return of another Marcos to the presidency."

Duterte has repeatedly attacked Robredo since taking power in 2016 on a promise to rid the country of drugs.

Among other things, she opposed Duterte's plan to bring back the death penalty and his decision to allow the embalmed body of Ferdinand Marcos to be buried at the national heroes' cemetery.

So far, more than 40 candidates have registered to run for president in the May election, but the field will narrow significantly in the coming months.

Election season kicked off this month, the candidates flocking to the offices of the elections commission to file their nominations.

The process launched a typically noisy and deadly seven months of campaigning for more than 18,000 positions, with the COVID-19&nbsp;pandemic and the economic downturn caused by lockdowns expected to dampen the atmosphere.

Philippines Vice President Leni Robredo, an arch-rival of President Rodrigo Duterte and staunch critic of his deadly drug war, said Thursday she will run for the top job, becoming the leading opposition candidate in a crowded election field.

Philippines Vice President Leni Robredo, an arch-rival of President Rodrigo Duterte and staunch critic of his deadly drug war, said Thursday she will run for the top job, becoming the leading opposition candidate in a crowded election field. Robredo has been under pressure from supporters and opposition groups to join the 2022 presidential race, but she has been well behind the front runners in opinion polls. Analysts say the even-tempered former congresswoman could struggle. Also Read | Philippines' Duterte says will retire from politics "I will fight, we will fight," Robredo, 56, said, declaring herself a presidential candidate. "We will defeat the archaic and rotten style of politics." President and vice president are elected separately in the Philippines. Robredo quit Duterte's cabinet less than six months after he was sworn in, after a presidential aide told her she had been barred from its meetings. Her decision comes after her nemesis Ferdinand Marcos Jr, son and namesake of the country's former dictator, said Tuesday he would run for the top job. Robredo narrowly defeated Marcos Jr for the nation's second-highest office in 2016, dealing a blow to the political aspirations of the powerful clan as they sought to rehabilitate their image. Marcos Jr -- an ally of Duterte and a defender of the narcotics crackdown that has killed thousands of people -- fought a nearly five-year legal battle challenging the vote, but lost in February when the Supreme Court rejected the protest. Marcos Jr was in second place behind Duterte's daughter, Sara, in a recent Pulse Asia Research poll, though she has denied plans to run. Also Read | Philippines' Duterte to prepare defence against ICC probe Robredo was a distant sixth, trailing boxing great Manny Pacquiao and celebrity mayor Francisco Domagoso, who have confirmed they will seek the presidency; and Senator Grace Poe, who has not. Most of the top candidates have supported the drug war, which is being investigated by the International Criminal Court as a possible crime against humanity. - 'All my strength' - Robredo, originally a lawyer for the disadvantaged, rose to fame as the wife of Jesse Robredo, a respected cabinet member in former president Benigno Aquino's administration. When her husband died in a plane crash in 2012, public clamour encouraged her to enter politics. Robredo, who has three daughters, served a single term in the House of Representatives before her successful bid for the vice presidency. "My promise is to give all my strength, not only until the election but until the very end to fight for the Philippines that we dream of," Robredo said Thursday. University of the Philippines political science professor Jean Franco told AFP: "It is going to be an uphill climb but her running sends a strong statement in itself that there is a genuine opposition to Duterte and the return of another Marcos to the presidency." Duterte has repeatedly attacked Robredo since taking power in 2016 on a promise to rid the country of drugs. Among other things, she opposed Duterte's plan to bring back the death penalty and his decision to allow the embalmed body of Ferdinand Marcos to be buried at the national heroes' cemetery. So far, more than 40 candidates have registered to run for president in the May election, but the field will narrow significantly in the coming months. Election season kicked off this month, the candidates flocking to the offices of the elections commission to file their nominations. The process launched a typically noisy and deadly seven months of campaigning for more than 18,000 positions, with the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic downturn caused by lockdowns expected to dampen the atmosphere.

Duterte nemesis and drug-war critic bids for Philippine president

A total of 24,602 patients recovered in the last 24 hours, taking the cumulative tally of recoveries to 3,32,00,258. India`s recovery rate stands at 97.95 per cent - the highest since March 2020.

The active caseload is presently 2,44,198, which is the lowest in 204 days. Active cases presently constitute 0.72 per cent of the country`s total positive cases.

Meanwhile, the fresh deaths have taken the toll to 4,49,856, as per the Health Ministry data.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-covid-testing-kits-recalled-that-delivered-false-positives-418697">Thousands of Covid testing kits recalled that delivered false positives</a>

The weekly positivity rate, at 1.68 per cent, remains less than 3 per cent for the last 104 days now, while the daily positivity rate is 1.57 per cent, having remained below 3 per cent for last 38 days and below 5 per cent for 121 consecutive days now.

The last 24 hours saw a total of 14,31,819 tests being conducted, taking the cumulative total to over 57.86 crore.

With 43,09,525 vaccine doses administered in the last 24 hours, India's COVID-19 vaccination coverage crossed the 92.63 crore mark as per provisional reports till 7 a.m. on Thursday. This has been achieved through 90,14,182 sessions.

Over 93.94 crore vaccine doses have been provided to states/UTs so far through the Centre as well as the direct state procurement category. However, more than 7.64 cr unutilised vaccine doses are still available with the states/UTs to be administered, the Health Ministry data said

A total of 24,602 patients recovered in the last 24 hours, taking the cumulative tally of recoveries to 3,32,00,258. India`s recovery rate stands at 97.95 per cent - the highest since March 2020.

A total of 24,602 patients recovered in the last 24 hours, taking the cumulative tally of recoveries to 3,32,00,258. India`s recovery rate stands at 97.95 per cent - the highest since March 2020. The active caseload is presently 2,44,198, which is the lowest in 204 days. Active cases presently constitute 0.72 per cent of the country`s total positive cases. Meanwhile, the fresh deaths have taken the toll to 4,49,856, as per the Health Ministry data. Also Read | Thousands of Covid testing kits recalled that delivered false positives The weekly positivity rate, at 1.68 per cent, remains less than 3 per cent for the last 104 days now, while the daily positivity rate is 1.57 per cent, having remained below 3 per cent for last 38 days and below 5 per cent for 121 consecutive days now. The last 24 hours saw a total of 14,31,819 tests being conducted, taking the cumulative total to over 57.86 crore. With 43,09,525 vaccine doses administered in the last 24 hours, India's COVID-19 vaccination coverage crossed the 92.63 crore mark as per provisional reports till 7 a.m. on Thursday. This has been achieved through 90,14,182 sessions. Over 93.94 crore vaccine doses have been provided to states/UTs so far through the Centre as well as the direct state procurement category. However, more than 7.64 cr unutilised vaccine doses are still available with the states/UTs to be administered, the Health Ministry data said

India logs 22,431 new COVID-19 cases, 318 deaths

UN humanitarian agencies and their partners on Wednesday urged countries to honour their pledges to Afghanistan, as they rush to scale-up delivery of lifesaving aid ahead of the coming winter season there.

Afghanistan was already among the world`s worst humanitarian situations prior to the Taliban assuming power in August, which has deepened existing needs and vulnerabilities.

A USD 606 million flash appeal launched in September to assist more than 10 million vulnerable Afghans is less than 40 per cent funded.

Humanitarians warned that donor pledges and commitments "must urgently be turned into reality" before it is too late.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/women-teachers-face-uncertain-future-after-taliban-bans-them-from-schools-417874">Women teachers face uncertain future after Taliban bans them from schools</a>

"Afghanistan is on borrowed time," said Mary-Ellen McGroarty, Representative of the World Food Progamme (WFP) in the country.

"I have never before seen a crisis unfold at this pace and scale.

" Afghanistan has suffered decades of conflict and displacement, as well as chronic poverty, severe drought, and now the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nearly half the population, more than 18 million people, require aid assistance to survive, while conflict and insecurity have displaced more than 3.5 million, with nearly 700,000 uprooted this year alone.

The country`s health system is failing and the economy is on the brink of collapse.

The rights of women and girls, and minorities, are also seriously under threat.

"We are witnessing a new depth of destitution as the drought and the economic crisis drives up food and fuel prices," said McGroarty, stressing that families desperately need support as the colder weather approaches.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-say-islamic-state-cell-destroyed-after-mosque-attack-418068">Taliban say Islamic State cell destroyed after mosque attack</a>

UN agencies and partner organizations are responding to the crisis despite financial shortfalls, logistical challenges and what they described as "an increasingly complex geo-political situation." Ramiz Alakbarov, the top UN humanitarian official in Afghanistan, said the country`s people "must not pay the price of collective failures", and deserve to live in peace and dignity.

"We will spare no effort to respond to the needs of all women, men, and children in Afghanistan," he said.

"We will continue to advocate for the rights of women and girls, and of minority groups, as well as the rights of all to employment, food, healthcare, education, and safety," he added.&nbsp;

UN humanitarian agencies and their partners on Wednesday urged countries to honour their pledges to Afghanistan, as they rush to scale-up delivery of lifesaving aid ahead of the coming winter season there.

UN humanitarian agencies and their partners on Wednesday urged countries to honour their pledges to Afghanistan, as they rush to scale-up delivery of lifesaving aid ahead of the coming winter season there. Afghanistan was already among the world`s worst humanitarian situations prior to the Taliban assuming power in August, which has deepened existing needs and vulnerabilities. A USD 606 million flash appeal launched in September to assist more than 10 million vulnerable Afghans is less than 40 per cent funded. Humanitarians warned that donor pledges and commitments "must urgently be turned into reality" before it is too late. Also Read | Women teachers face uncertain future after Taliban bans them from schools "Afghanistan is on borrowed time," said Mary-Ellen McGroarty, Representative of the World Food Progamme (WFP) in the country. "I have never before seen a crisis unfold at this pace and scale. " Afghanistan has suffered decades of conflict and displacement, as well as chronic poverty, severe drought, and now the COVID-19 pandemic. Nearly half the population, more than 18 million people, require aid assistance to survive, while conflict and insecurity have displaced more than 3.5 million, with nearly 700,000 uprooted this year alone. The country`s health system is failing and the economy is on the brink of collapse. The rights of women and girls, and minorities, are also seriously under threat. "We are witnessing a new depth of destitution as the drought and the economic crisis drives up food and fuel prices," said McGroarty, stressing that families desperately need support as the colder weather approaches. Also Read | Taliban say Islamic State cell destroyed after mosque attack UN agencies and partner organizations are responding to the crisis despite financial shortfalls, logistical challenges and what they described as "an increasingly complex geo-political situation." Ramiz Alakbarov, the top UN humanitarian official in Afghanistan, said the country`s people "must not pay the price of collective failures", and deserve to live in peace and dignity. "We will spare no effort to respond to the needs of all women, men, and children in Afghanistan," he said. "We will continue to advocate for the rights of women and girls, and of minority groups, as well as the rights of all to employment, food, healthcare, education, and safety," he added.

Afghanistan: UN humanitarian agencies call for greater support as winter approaches

Imagine you are out on a trek and suddenly run out of drinking water. You search for water and find a stream, but aren't sure about purity of water. What do you do?

Boiling the water may be one of the options but it'll take lot of time for it to cool and (at last) become cool for drinking.

Scientists at University of Texas, Austin have developed hydrogels that can purify contaminated water. The hydrogel tablets can kill bacterias present in water by forming Hydrogen Peroxide coupled with activated carbon. Such a combination is lethal for bacteria as it disturbs their metabolism.&nbsp;

“The hydrogel is a multifunctional hydrophilic polymer that can bring a revolution and curb water scarcity. In addition, it is highly efficient and can be produced on a mass level,” Guihua Yu, Associate Professor, Cockrell School of Engineering, Texas, said in a press release.

The hydrogel tablet can purify one-litre of water in an hour. The method provides additional benefit as the purification does not need energy and does not form any harmful by-products. The methods we commonly use need thermal energy (boiling) or solar energy. The use of solar energy causes accumulation of microbes. This eventually slows down and shuts the system.

Imagine you are out on a trek and suddenly run out of drinking water. You search for water and find a stream, but aren't sure about purity of water. What do you do?

Imagine you are out on a trek and suddenly run out of drinking water. You search for water and find a stream, but aren't sure about purity of water. What do you do? Boiling the water may be one of the options but it'll take lot of time for it to cool and (at last) become cool for drinking. Scientists at University of Texas, Austin have developed hydrogels that can purify contaminated water. The hydrogel tablets can kill bacterias present in water by forming Hydrogen Peroxide coupled with activated carbon. Such a combination is lethal for bacteria as it disturbs their metabolism. “The hydrogel is a multifunctional hydrophilic polymer that can bring a revolution and curb water scarcity. In addition, it is highly efficient and can be produced on a mass level,” Guihua Yu, Associate Professor, Cockrell School of Engineering, Texas, said in a press release. The hydrogel tablet can purify one-litre of water in an hour. The method provides additional benefit as the purification does not need energy and does not form any harmful by-products. The methods we commonly use need thermal energy (boiling) or solar energy. The use of solar energy causes accumulation of microbes. This eventually slows down and shuts the system.

Scientists develop hydrogel tablet capable of making river water drinkable

A 100-year-old former Nazi concentration camp guard will go on trial this Tuesday for Nazi-era crimes. He would be the oldest person to be tried for such crimes.

The 100-year-old, identified only as Josef S, is accused of 'knowingly and willingly" assisting the murder of 3518 prisoners at Sachsenhausen camp in Oranienburg, north of Berlin, between 1942 and 1945.

Allegations against him include aiding and abetting the "execution by firing squad of Soviet prisoners of war in 1942" and the murder of prisoners "using the poisonous gas Zyklon B".

German prosecutors are racing to bring the last surviving Nazi perpetrators to justice, and have in recent years increasingly focused attention on lower-ranking Nazi staff.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-sets-aside-an-additional-767-million-for-holocaust-survivors-officials-say-418657">Germany sets aside an additional $767 million for holocaust survivors, officials say</a>

The case comes a week after a 96-year-old German woman, who was a secretary in a Nazi death camp, dramatically fled before the start of her trial but was caught several hours later.&nbsp;

She too has been charged with complicity in murder. Her trial resumes on October 19.

Despite his advanced age, a medical assessment in August found that Josef S. was fit to stand trial, although hearings at the Neuruppin court will be limited to a couple of hours a day.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/in-a-bid-to-combat-climate-impact-cut-carbon-footprint-germany-unveils-synthetic-kerosene-plant-418471">In a bid to combat climate impact, cut carbon footprint, Germany unveils synthetic kerosene plant</a>

The proceedings are expected to last until early January.

"He is not accused of having shot anyone in particular but of having contributed to these acts through his work as a guard and of having been aware such killings were happening at the camp," a court spokeswoman said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-a-farewell-visit-germanys-merkel-to-head-to-israel-next-week-418261">For a farewell visit, Germany's Merkel to head to Israel next week &nbsp;</a>

Thomas Walther, a lawyer representing several camp survivors and victims' relatives in the case, said that even 76 years after the end of World War II, trials like these were necessary to hold perpetrators to account.

"There's no expiry date on justice," he told AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 100-year-old former Nazi concentration camp guard will go on trial this Tuesday for Nazi-era crimes. He would be the oldest person to be tried for such crimes.

A 100-year-old former Nazi concentration camp guard will go on trial this Tuesday for Nazi-era crimes. He would be the oldest person to be tried for such crimes. The 100-year-old, identified only as Josef S, is accused of 'knowingly and willingly" assisting the murder of 3518 prisoners at Sachsenhausen camp in Oranienburg, north of Berlin, between 1942 and 1945. Allegations against him include aiding and abetting the "execution by firing squad of Soviet prisoners of war in 1942" and the murder of prisoners "using the poisonous gas Zyklon B". German prosecutors are racing to bring the last surviving Nazi perpetrators to justice, and have in recent years increasingly focused attention on lower-ranking Nazi staff. Also Read | Germany sets aside an additional $767 million for holocaust survivors, officials say The case comes a week after a 96-year-old German woman, who was a secretary in a Nazi death camp, dramatically fled before the start of her trial but was caught several hours later. She too has been charged with complicity in murder. Her trial resumes on October 19. Despite his advanced age, a medical assessment in August found that Josef S. was fit to stand trial, although hearings at the Neuruppin court will be limited to a couple of hours a day. Also Read | In a bid to combat climate impact, cut carbon footprint, Germany unveils synthetic kerosene plant The proceedings are expected to last until early January. "He is not accused of having shot anyone in particular but of having contributed to these acts through his work as a guard and of having been aware such killings were happening at the camp," a court spokeswoman said. Also Read | For a farewell visit, Germany's Merkel to head to Israel next week Thomas Walther, a lawyer representing several camp survivors and victims' relatives in the case, said that even 76 years after the end of World War II, trials like these were necessary to hold perpetrators to account. "There's no expiry date on justice," he told AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany: 100-year-old to go on trial for Nazi-era crimes

A federal judge in US on Wednesday blocked a law that banned most abortions in Texas. The law is part of a conservative drive to deny access to the procedure.

The statute, which went into force on September 1, prohibits abortions as soon as a &nbsp;heartbeat is detectable, usually at around six weeks of pregnancy, before many women even know they are pregnant. There are no exceptions for cases of incest or rape.

US District Judge &nbsp;Robert Pitman in Austin granted the request from President Joe Biden's administration to block enforcement of the law pending further litigation. The judge said that the law violated US constitution. The state of Texas can appeal against the ruling.

In his 113-page ruling, Pitman said Texas officials had created an "unprecedented and aggressive scheme to deprive its citizens of a significant and well-established constitutional right."

"From the moment SB 8 went into effect, women have been unlawfully prevented from exercising control over their lives in ways that are protected by the Constitution," Pitman said, using the abbreviation for Senate Bill 8, the law's official name.

"This Court will not sanction one more day of this offensive deprivation of such an important right."

In recent years, similar laws have been passed in other states but were struck down because they violated US Supreme Court precedent from Roe v. Wade, the 1973 ruling that guaranteed a woman's right to an abortion until the fetus is viable outside the womb, at around 22 weeks of pregnancy.

The Texas law, which thus far is the most restrictive in the country, is unique in that it empowers anyone to file a lawsuit against a person who has assisted in an abortion. They can be rewarded with $10,000 for cases that lead to prosecution, prompting charges that the law encourages Texans to act as vigilantes.

As Texas can still appeal Pitman's order, the case may end up in front of the Supreme Court.

US Attorney General Merrick Garland welcomed the ruling as "a victory for women in Texas and for the rule of law."

He added: "It is the foremost responsibility of the Department of Justice to defend the Constitution. We will continue to protect constitutional rights against all who would seek to undermine them.”

(With inputs from agencies)

A federal judge in US on Wednesday blocked a law that banned most abortions in Texas. The law is part of a conservative drive to deny access to the procedure. The statute, which went into force on September 1, prohibits abortions as soon as a heartbeat is detectable, usually at around six weeks of pregnancy, before many women even know they are pregnant.

A federal judge in US on Wednesday blocked a law that banned most abortions in Texas. The law is part of a conservative drive to deny access to the procedure. The statute, which went into force on September 1, prohibits abortions as soon as a heartbeat is detectable, usually at around six weeks of pregnancy, before many women even know they are pregnant. There are no exceptions for cases of incest or rape. US District Judge Robert Pitman in Austin granted the request from President Joe Biden's administration to block enforcement of the law pending further litigation. The judge said that the law violated US constitution. The state of Texas can appeal against the ruling. In his 113-page ruling, Pitman said Texas officials had created an "unprecedented and aggressive scheme to deprive its citizens of a significant and well-established constitutional right." "From the moment SB 8 went into effect, women have been unlawfully prevented from exercising control over their lives in ways that are protected by the Constitution," Pitman said, using the abbreviation for Senate Bill 8, the law's official name. "This Court will not sanction one more day of this offensive deprivation of such an important right." In recent years, similar laws have been passed in other states but were struck down because they violated US Supreme Court precedent from Roe v. Wade, the 1973 ruling that guaranteed a woman's right to an abortion until the fetus is viable outside the womb, at around 22 weeks of pregnancy. The Texas law, which thus far is the most restrictive in the country, is unique in that it empowers anyone to file a lawsuit against a person who has assisted in an abortion. They can be rewarded with $10,000 for cases that lead to prosecution, prompting charges that the law encourages Texans to act as vigilantes. As Texas can still appeal Pitman's order, the case may end up in front of the Supreme Court. US Attorney General Merrick Garland welcomed the ruling as "a victory for women in Texas and for the rule of law." He added: "It is the foremost responsibility of the Department of Justice to defend the Constitution. We will continue to protect constitutional rights against all who would seek to undermine them.” (With inputs from agencies)

US judge blocks abortion law in Texas

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Italy later this month for the annual G20 summit. The G20 Heads of State and Government Summit will be held in Rome on October 30 and 31. This will be 3rd foreign visit of PM Modi amid the Covid pandemic. He visited Bangladesh in March and the US in September. While it is unlikely that PM Modi would visit any other country during his Italy visit no call has yet been made by New Delhi.

The summit will see many bilaterals on the sidelines. The 2019 Osaka summit in Japan saw bilateral between PM Modi and the then US President Donald Trump. G20 has been an occasion for the JAI (Japan, America, India) and RIC (Russia, India and China) leaders' meets. The BRICS leaders have also been meeting on the sidelines of the grouping's annual meet.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/my-journey-of-serving-the-people-pm-modi-completes-20-years-in-public-office-418835">'My journey of serving the people': PM Modi completes 20 years in public office</a>

Meanwhile, reports have suggested both the Chinese President Xi Jinping and new Japanese PM Fumio Kishida may not attend the G20 summit this year. While no reason is coming forth for Jinping, Japan's Kishida will not attend the summit due to parliamentary election in Japan. They are due to be held on October 31. That also means, meeting of JAI or RIC will not take place.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-stares-at-coal-crisis-as-cop26-eyes-chinas-coal-fired-power-projects-418819">India stares at coal crisis as COP26 eyes China's coal-fired power projects</a>

Rome summit will be the 16th G20 summit. Last year the summit happened virtually, because of the Covid crisis. India will be hosting the G20 in 2023 for the first time. Preparations are underway in New Delhi with construction of state-of-the-art venues.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/afghanistan-china-key-focus-during-sherman-shringla-talks-in-delhi-418799">Afghanistan, China key focus during Sherman-Shringla talks in Delhi</a>

G20 was formed during the 2008 global economic crisis, with the first summit taking place in November 2008. Since then, the group has taken a political role as well, discussing pressing global issues. Italy as the host, will hold a virtual G20 meet on Afghanistan on 12th October. The grouping that has 20 of the biggest economies. The countries account for major portion of global economy. This includes 80% of the trade. 2/3rd of world population lives in G20 countries and these countries make up for about half of world's land area.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Italy later this month for the annual G20 summit. The G20 Heads of State and Government Summit will be held in Rome on October 30 and 31.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Italy later this month for the annual G20 summit. The G20 Heads of State and Government Summit will be held in Rome on October 30 and 31. This will be 3rd foreign visit of PM Modi amid the Covid pandemic. He visited Bangladesh in March and the US in September. While it is unlikely that PM Modi would visit any other country during his Italy visit no call has yet been made by New Delhi. The summit will see many bilaterals on the sidelines. The 2019 Osaka summit in Japan saw bilateral between PM Modi and the then US President Donald Trump. G20 has been an occasion for the JAI (Japan, America, India) and RIC (Russia, India and China) leaders' meets. The BRICS leaders have also been meeting on the sidelines of the grouping's annual meet. Also Read | 'My journey of serving the people': PM Modi completes 20 years in public office Meanwhile, reports have suggested both the Chinese President Xi Jinping and new Japanese PM Fumio Kishida may not attend the G20 summit this year. While no reason is coming forth for Jinping, Japan's Kishida will not attend the summit due to parliamentary election in Japan. They are due to be held on October 31. That also means, meeting of JAI or RIC will not take place. Also Read | India stares at coal crisis as COP26 eyes China's coal-fired power projects Rome summit will be the 16th G20 summit. Last year the summit happened virtually, because of the Covid crisis. India will be hosting the G20 in 2023 for the first time. Preparations are underway in New Delhi with construction of state-of-the-art venues. Also Read | Afghanistan, China key focus during Sherman-Shringla talks in Delhi G20 was formed during the 2008 global economic crisis, with the first summit taking place in November 2008. Since then, the group has taken a political role as well, discussing pressing global issues. Italy as the host, will hold a virtual G20 meet on Afghanistan on 12th October. The grouping that has 20 of the biggest economies. The countries account for major portion of global economy. This includes 80% of the trade. 2/3rd of world population lives in G20 countries and these countries make up for about half of world's land area.

PM Modi to visit Italy for G20 later this month

Sixteen-year-old Nella Salminen on Wednesday stepped into the shoes of Finnish President Sauli Niinisto for a day. This was part of a global campaign to promote girls' rights.

"This whole day is like the best thing I've experienced in a long time," Nella Salminen told AFP outside Helsinki's presidential palace, after spending the day meeting politicians and addressing a global climate action conference.

She was selected by Plan International, a charity, to work alongside the Nordic country's president.

as part of its #GirlsTakeover campaign, in which adolescents around the world take the helm in politics or business for one day.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-remains-bedrock-for-european-security-says-stoltenberg-amid-aukus-row-418607">NATO remains bedrock for European security, says Stoltenberg amid AUKUS row</a>

Held ahead of the UN Day of the Girl on October 11, this year the teens are sharing duties with Uganda's education minister, a Swiss federal counsellor and the CEOs of a number of major Indonesian companies, among others.

Nella said her message to her elders was that girls' potential should be better recognised and they should be involved more in policymaking.

"It is not fair that decisions that influence me a lot have been made by decision-makers without asking... my generation's opinion," she said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/soaring-energy-prices-climb-up-eus-political-agenda-418611">Soaring energy prices climb up EU's political agenda</a>

Nella also spoke to the president about the theme of this year's girls' takeover campaign, the impact on gender of false information online.

"Misinformation and disinformation on the internet has grown and grown, and it's really hard to find the correct information," Nella told AFP.

"I think people from my generation know this the best, and that is one mesasge we can provide to the older generation."

Finland's government is headed by Prime Minister Sanna Marin, who became the world's youngest holder of the office in 2019 when she took power aged 34, leading a coalition of five centre-left parties who were all led by women.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sixteen-year-old Nella Salminen on Wednesday stepped into the shoes of Finnish President Sauli Niinisto for a day. This was part of a global campaign to promote girls' rights.

Sixteen-year-old Nella Salminen on Wednesday stepped into the shoes of Finnish President Sauli Niinisto for a day. This was part of a global campaign to promote girls' rights. "This whole day is like the best thing I've experienced in a long time," Nella Salminen told AFP outside Helsinki's presidential palace, after spending the day meeting politicians and addressing a global climate action conference. She was selected by Plan International, a charity, to work alongside the Nordic country's president. as part of its #GirlsTakeover campaign, in which adolescents around the world take the helm in politics or business for one day. Also Read | NATO remains bedrock for European security, says Stoltenberg amid AUKUS row Held ahead of the UN Day of the Girl on October 11, this year the teens are sharing duties with Uganda's education minister, a Swiss federal counsellor and the CEOs of a number of major Indonesian companies, among others. Nella said her message to her elders was that girls' potential should be better recognised and they should be involved more in policymaking. "It is not fair that decisions that influence me a lot have been made by decision-makers without asking... my generation's opinion," she said. Also Read | Soaring energy prices climb up EU's political agenda Nella also spoke to the president about the theme of this year's girls' takeover campaign, the impact on gender of false information online. "Misinformation and disinformation on the internet has grown and grown, and it's really hard to find the correct information," Nella told AFP. "I think people from my generation know this the best, and that is one mesasge we can provide to the older generation." Finland's government is headed by Prime Minister Sanna Marin, who became the world's youngest holder of the office in 2019 when she took power aged 34, leading a coalition of five centre-left parties who were all led by women. (With inputs from agencies)

In girls' rights drive, 16-year-old becomes Finnish president for a day

Four employees of the airport of Saudi Arabia's southwestern city of Abha have been injured as a result of an attack carried out by an explosive-laden drone launched by the Yemeni Shia Houthi rebels, media reported.

The drone was downed by the Saudi forces but four people were injured by debris of the destroyed drone, Saudi Arabia`s state-run Al-Ekhbariya broadcaster reported, citing the Arab coalition.

Yemen has been engulfed in an armed conflict between the government forces, led by President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi, and the Houthi rebels for several years.

Since March 2015, the Saudi-led Arab alliance, working in cooperation with Hadi's forces, has been conducting air, land and sea operations against the rebels, who control the capital of Sanaa and large areas in northern and western Yemen.

The Houthis often use drones with explosives to attack Saudi border areas.

The drone was downed by the Saudi forces but four people were injured by debris of the destroyed drone, Saudi Arabia`s state-run Al-Ekhbariya broadcaster reported, citing the Arab coalition.

Yemen has been engulfed in an armed conflict between the government forces, led by President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi, and the Houthi rebels for several years.

Since March 2015, the Saudi-led Arab alliance, working in cooperation with Hadi's forces, has been conducting air, land and sea operations against the rebels, who control the capital of Sanaa and large areas in northern and western Yemen.

The Houthis often use drones with explosives to attack Saudi border areas.

Four employees of the airport of Saudi Arabia's southwestern city of Abha have been injured as a result of an attack carried out by an explosive-laden drone launched by the Yemeni Shia Houthi rebels, media reported.

Four employees of the airport of Saudi Arabia's southwestern city of Abha have been injured as a result of an attack carried out by an explosive-laden drone launched by the Yemeni Shia Houthi rebels, media reported. The drone was downed by the Saudi forces but four people were injured by debris of the destroyed drone, Saudi Arabia`s state-run Al-Ekhbariya broadcaster reported, citing the Arab coalition. Yemen has been engulfed in an armed conflict between the government forces, led by President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi, and the Houthi rebels for several years. Since March 2015, the Saudi-led Arab alliance, working in cooperation with Hadi's forces, has been conducting air, land and sea operations against the rebels, who control the capital of Sanaa and large areas in northern and western Yemen. The Houthis often use drones with explosives to attack Saudi border areas. The drone was downed by the Saudi forces but four people were injured by debris of the destroyed drone, Saudi Arabia`s state-run Al-Ekhbariya broadcaster reported, citing the Arab coalition. Yemen has been engulfed in an armed conflict between the government forces, led by President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi, and the Houthi rebels for several years. Since March 2015, the Saudi-led Arab alliance, working in cooperation with Hadi's forces, has been conducting air, land and sea operations against the rebels, who control the capital of Sanaa and large areas in northern and western Yemen. The Houthis often use drones with explosives to attack Saudi border areas.

Four employees of airport in Saudi Arabia's Abha injured by Houthi drone attack

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