Sharks are like tigers in the deep. The apex predator is a perfect killing machine with an aerodynamic body to swim fast, colours that blend in with surroundings, razor sharp teeth and amazing sense of smell that is literally capable of detecting few milliliters of blood from miles away.

But some people in Papua New Guinea catch them by hand!

And they sing to them before catching them.

Yep! That's the deal!

Singing to sharks, or 'shark calling' is an ancient tradition among fisherfolk villages of Messi, Kono and Kontu in Papua New Guinea which is an island nation north of Australia.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-unearth-fossils-of-rare-eagle-species-that-lived-25-million-years-ago-416873">Scientists unearth fossils of rare Eagle species that lived 25 million years ago</a>

The singing involves taking names of their ancestors and showing their respect to the shark before catching it. Then they shake coconut rattle in water to lure sharks from deep and then catch them by hand.

People here believe that sharks carry souls of ancestors. And by showing them respect, a fisherman can catch a shark without himself coming to harm.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-unearth-bones-of-two-new-species-of-dinosaurs-417380">Scientists unearth bones of two new species of dinosaurs</a>

The tradition of 'shark calling' is not just a practice but a philosophy for these people. According to elders in these villagers communication between man and sharks is a reflection of how the man has lived his life.

They believe that only the person who does not drink, womanise or steal from others can become a successful shark caller.

Sharks are like tigers in the deep. The apex predator is a perfect killing machine with an aerodynamic body to swim fast, colours that blend in with surroundings, razor sharp teeth and amazing sense of smell that is literally capable of detecting few milliliters of blood from miles away.

Sharks are like tigers in the deep. The apex predator is a perfect killing machine with an aerodynamic body to swim fast, colours that blend in with surroundings, razor sharp teeth and amazing sense of smell that is literally capable of detecting few milliliters of blood from miles away. But some people in Papua New Guinea catch them by hand! And they sing to them before catching them. Yep! That's the deal! Singing to sharks, or 'shark calling' is an ancient tradition among fisherfolk villages of Messi, Kono and Kontu in Papua New Guinea which is an island nation north of Australia. Also Read | Scientists unearth fossils of rare Eagle species that lived 25 million years ago The singing involves taking names of their ancestors and showing their respect to the shark before catching it. Then they shake coconut rattle in water to lure sharks from deep and then catch them by hand. People here believe that sharks carry souls of ancestors. And by showing them respect, a fisherman can catch a shark without himself coming to harm. Also Read | Scientists unearth bones of two new species of dinosaurs The tradition of 'shark calling' is not just a practice but a philosophy for these people. According to elders in these villagers communication between man and sharks is a reflection of how the man has lived his life. They believe that only the person who does not drink, womanise or steal from others can become a successful shark caller.

People in this country 'sing' to sharks and then catch them by hand

Mars, the nearest neighbour of Earth is today a barren wasteland. The red planet is a striking sight in the night sky. It's hard to imagine anything catastrophic happening on Mars today.

But a new study has found that massive floods from overflowing craters had outsized role in shaping Martian surface. The study has been carried out by researchers at University of Texas at Austin.

The study found that these floods carved deep chasms and moved vast amounts of sediment. The findings have been published in the scientific journal 'Nature'

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasas-hubble-space-telescope-finds-dead-galaxies-417163">NASA's Hubble space telescope finds dead galaxies</a>

"If we think about how sediment was being moved across the landscape on ancient Mars, lake breach floods were a really important process globally," said lead author Tim Goudge, an assistant professor at the UT Jackson School of Geosciences.&nbsp;

"And this is a bit of a surprising result because they`ve been thought of as one-off anomalies for so long," Goudge added.

Crater lakes were common on Mars billions of years ago when the Red Planet had liquid water on its surface. Some craters could hold a small sea`s worth of water. But when the water became too much to hold, it would breach the edge of the crater, causing catastrophic flooding that carved river valleys in its wake.&nbsp;

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A 2019 study led by Goudge determined that these events happened rapidly. Remote sensing images taken by satellites orbiting Mars have allowed scientists to study the remains of breached Martian crater lakes.&nbsp;

However, the crater lakes and their river valleys have mostly been studied on an individual basis, Goudge said. This is the first study to investigate how the 262 breached lakes across the Red Planet shaped the Martian surface as a whole.

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The research entailed reviewing a preexisting catalogue of river valleys on Mars and classifying the valleys into two categories: valleys that got their start at a crater`s edge, which indicates they formed during a lake breach flood, and valleys that formed elsewhere on the landscape, which suggests a more gradual formation over time.

From there, the scientists compared the depth, length and volume of the different valley types and found that river valleys formed by crater lake breaches punch far above their weight, eroding away nearly a quarter of the Red Planet`s river valley volume despite making up only 3 per cent of total valley length.

(With inputs&nbsp;from agencies)

Mars, the nearest neighbour of Earth is today a barren wasteland. The red planet is a striking sight in the night sky. It's hard to imagine anything catastrophic happening on Mars today.

Mars, the nearest neighbour of Earth is today a barren wasteland. The red planet is a striking sight in the night sky. It's hard to imagine anything catastrophic happening on Mars today. But a new study has found that massive floods from overflowing craters had outsized role in shaping Martian surface. The study has been carried out by researchers at University of Texas at Austin. The study found that these floods carved deep chasms and moved vast amounts of sediment. The findings have been published in the scientific journal 'Nature' Also Read | NASA's Hubble space telescope finds dead galaxies "If we think about how sediment was being moved across the landscape on ancient Mars, lake breach floods were a really important process globally," said lead author Tim Goudge, an assistant professor at the UT Jackson School of Geosciences. "And this is a bit of a surprising result because they`ve been thought of as one-off anomalies for so long," Goudge added. Crater lakes were common on Mars billions of years ago when the Red Planet had liquid water on its surface. Some craters could hold a small sea`s worth of water. But when the water became too much to hold, it would breach the edge of the crater, causing catastrophic flooding that carved river valleys in its wake. Also Read | Winds on Jupiter are speeding up and no one knows why A 2019 study led by Goudge determined that these events happened rapidly. Remote sensing images taken by satellites orbiting Mars have allowed scientists to study the remains of breached Martian crater lakes. However, the crater lakes and their river valleys have mostly been studied on an individual basis, Goudge said. This is the first study to investigate how the 262 breached lakes across the Red Planet shaped the Martian surface as a whole. Also Read | NASA posts image of 'Hand of God', netizens are awestruck The research entailed reviewing a preexisting catalogue of river valleys on Mars and classifying the valleys into two categories: valleys that got their start at a crater`s edge, which indicates they formed during a lake breach flood, and valleys that formed elsewhere on the landscape, which suggests a more gradual formation over time. From there, the scientists compared the depth, length and volume of the different valley types and found that river valleys formed by crater lake breaches punch far above their weight, eroding away nearly a quarter of the Red Planet`s river valley volume despite making up only 3 per cent of total valley length. (With inputs from agencies)

Megafloods shaped Martian surface, says study

Tata Sons has emerged as winning bidder to take over state-run debt-laden Air India, Bloomberg reported on Friday. However, Secretary of Indian government's&nbsp;Department of Investment and Public Asset Management said within hours that media reports were 'incorrect'

"Media reports indicating approval of financial bids by Government of India in the AI disinvestment case are incorrect. Media will be informed of the Government decision as and when it is taken," tweeted the secretary.

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Media reports indicating approval of financial bids by Government of India in the AI disinvestment case are incorrect. Media will be informed of the Government decision as and when it is taken. <a href="https://t.co/PVMgJdDixS">pic.twitter.com/PVMgJdDixS</a>
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Earlier media reports had said that a&nbsp;panel of ministers had&nbsp;accepted proposal from officials and had recommended Tata Sons ahead of SpiceJet, a budget airline operator in India.&nbsp;

Spokespersons of Air India and Tata Sons declined request from Reuters for a comment.

The debt-laden Air India has&nbsp;been kept aloft by a bailout since 2012. Indian PM Narendra Modi govt has been trying to sell its entire stake in the loss making airline.

The government loses nearly 200 million rupees every day to run the national carrier, which has accumulated losses of over 700 billion rupees ($9.53 billion), officials have said.

An effort to auction a majority stake almost three years ago drew no bids, forcing the government to ease the terms. It had also extended the deadline multiple times due to the pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

Tata Sons has emerged as winning bidder to take over state-run debt-laden Air India, Bloomberg reported on Friday. However, Secretary of Indian government's Department of Investment and Public Asset Management said within hours that media reports were 'incorrect' "Media reports indicating approval of financial bids by Government of India in the AI disinvestment case are incorrect.

Tata Sons has emerged as winning bidder to take over state-run debt-laden Air India, Bloomberg reported on Friday. However, Secretary of Indian government's Department of Investment and Public Asset Management said within hours that media reports were 'incorrect' "Media reports indicating approval of financial bids by Government of India in the AI disinvestment case are incorrect. Media will be informed of the Government decision as and when it is taken," tweeted the secretary. Media reports indicating approval of financial bids by Government of India in the AI disinvestment case are incorrect. Media will be informed of the Government decision as and when it is taken. pic.twitter.com/PVMgJdDixS — Secretary, DIPAM (@SecyDIPAM) October 1, 2021 × Earlier media reports had said that a panel of ministers had accepted proposal from officials and had recommended Tata Sons ahead of SpiceJet, a budget airline operator in India. Spokespersons of Air India and Tata Sons declined request from Reuters for a comment. The debt-laden Air India has been kept aloft by a bailout since 2012. Indian PM Narendra Modi govt has been trying to sell its entire stake in the loss making airline. The government loses nearly 200 million rupees every day to run the national carrier, which has accumulated losses of over 700 billion rupees ($9.53 billion), officials have said. An effort to auction a majority stake almost three years ago drew no bids, forcing the government to ease the terms. It had also extended the deadline multiple times due to the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

Reports say Tatas won Air India race, government denies

Tech billionaire Jeff Bezos' space company Blue Origin on Thursday faced accusations of having 'toxic' work culture. The claim was made by a group of current and former Blue Origin employees. The allegations also say that sexual harassment was rampant in the company&nbsp;and there was a pattern of decision making that prioritized speedy rocket development over safety.&nbsp;

Blue Origin has firmly rejected the allegations. The allegations were outlined in a lengthy blogpost which was signed by Alexandra Abrams, the company's former head of employee communications

The post also said that it represented views of 20 other workers and ex-workers. The blogpost said that these individuals wanted to remain anonymous.

"Workforce gender gaps are common in the space industry, but at Blue Origin they also manifest in a particular brand of sexism," it said.

One senior executive was said to have reported for sexual harassment multiple times, but remained within the "loyal inner circle" of CEO Bob Smith.

Another former executive frequently referred to women co-workers as "'baby girl,' 'baby doll,' or 'sweetheart'" and inquired about their dating lives, the post added.

"It appeared to many of us that he was protected by his close personal relationship with Bezos -- it took him physically groping a female subordinate for him to finally be let go," the authors said.

They also said a former NASA astronaut and Blue Origin senior leader once instructed a group of women: "You should ask my opinion because I am a man."

Abrams and her co-authors further claimed that the company romanticized burnout, suppressed dissent, and was obsessed with competing with rivals SpaceX and Virgin Galactic in the race to launch their billionaire founders, thus compromising safety.

"In the opinion of an engineer who has signed on to this essay, 'Blue Origin has been lucky that nothing has happened so far,'" they said.

A Blue Origin spokesperson denied the allegations, saying Abrams was dismissed two years ago after warnings over issues involving US export control regulations.

"Blue Origin has no tolerance for discrimination or harassment of any kind," the spokesperson added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Tech billionaire Jeff Bezos' space company Blue Origin on Thursday faced accusations of having 'toxic' work culture. The claim was made by a group of current and former Blue Origin employees.

Tech billionaire Jeff Bezos' space company Blue Origin on Thursday faced accusations of having 'toxic' work culture. The claim was made by a group of current and former Blue Origin employees. The allegations also say that sexual harassment was rampant in the company and there was a pattern of decision making that prioritized speedy rocket development over safety. Blue Origin has firmly rejected the allegations. The allegations were outlined in a lengthy blogpost which was signed by Alexandra Abrams, the company's former head of employee communications The post also said that it represented views of 20 other workers and ex-workers. The blogpost said that these individuals wanted to remain anonymous. "Workforce gender gaps are common in the space industry, but at Blue Origin they also manifest in a particular brand of sexism," it said. One senior executive was said to have reported for sexual harassment multiple times, but remained within the "loyal inner circle" of CEO Bob Smith. Another former executive frequently referred to women co-workers as "'baby girl,' 'baby doll,' or 'sweetheart'" and inquired about their dating lives, the post added. "It appeared to many of us that he was protected by his close personal relationship with Bezos -- it took him physically groping a female subordinate for him to finally be let go," the authors said. They also said a former NASA astronaut and Blue Origin senior leader once instructed a group of women: "You should ask my opinion because I am a man." Abrams and her co-authors further claimed that the company romanticized burnout, suppressed dissent, and was obsessed with competing with rivals SpaceX and Virgin Galactic in the race to launch their billionaire founders, thus compromising safety. "In the opinion of an engineer who has signed on to this essay, 'Blue Origin has been lucky that nothing has happened so far,'" they said. A Blue Origin spokesperson denied the allegations, saying Abrams was dismissed two years ago after warnings over issues involving US export control regulations. "Blue Origin has no tolerance for discrimination or harassment of any kind," the spokesperson added. (With inputs from agencies)

Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin accused of 'toxic' work culture involving sexual harassment

India and Australia released a joint statement on Friday saying that both the countries are hoping to reach a landmark trade deal by end of 2022. They announced formal relaunch of stalled negotiations.

Last year, bilateral trade between the countries stood at 17 billion US Dollars last year. India exported its key services sector while Australian coal went the other way.

Both countries are members of the Quad grouping with the United States and Japan.

Following trade ministers' talks in New Delhi, the two countries backed the "expeditious negotiation" of a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement.

In the meantime they plan to reach an "early harvest" interim deal by the end this year under which some duties will already be cut.&nbsp;

The two sides hope for a "balanced trade agreement that encourages expanded trade and investment flows to the benefit of both of our economies, and that reflects a shared commitment to the rules-based international trading system", the statement said.

India was Australia's seventh-largest trading partner and sixth-largest export market in 2020. 
Negotiations on a comprehensive deal between India and Australia were launched more than a decade ago but stalled in 2015.

In recent months New Delhi has also sought to revive trade talks with other countries including the United States, the European Union and Britain.

Indian media quoted Australian Trade Minister Dan Tehan as saying that trade could double in the coming years if the comprehensive accord is sewn up.&nbsp;

"And it will double in all areas because the complementarity between our economies is so great," Tehan was quoted as telling a news conference in India on Thursday.

(With agency inputs)

India and Australia released a joint statement on Friday saying that both the countries are hoping to reach a landmark trade deal by end of 2022. They announced formal relaunch of stalled negotiations.

India and Australia released a joint statement on Friday saying that both the countries are hoping to reach a landmark trade deal by end of 2022. They announced formal relaunch of stalled negotiations. Last year, bilateral trade between the countries stood at 17 billion US Dollars last year. India exported its key services sector while Australian coal went the other way. Both countries are members of the Quad grouping with the United States and Japan. Following trade ministers' talks in New Delhi, the two countries backed the "expeditious negotiation" of a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement. In the meantime they plan to reach an "early harvest" interim deal by the end this year under which some duties will already be cut. The two sides hope for a "balanced trade agreement that encourages expanded trade and investment flows to the benefit of both of our economies, and that reflects a shared commitment to the rules-based international trading system", the statement said. India was Australia's seventh-largest trading partner and sixth-largest export market in 2020. Negotiations on a comprehensive deal between India and Australia were launched more than a decade ago but stalled in 2015. In recent months New Delhi has also sought to revive trade talks with other countries including the United States, the European Union and Britain. Indian media quoted Australian Trade Minister Dan Tehan as saying that trade could double in the coming years if the comprehensive accord is sewn up. "And it will double in all areas because the complementarity between our economies is so great," Tehan was quoted as telling a news conference in India on Thursday. (With agency inputs)

Quad partners India and Australia to ink trade deal by end 2022 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban (SBM-U) 2.0 and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 on Friday. The launch took place at Dr Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. These missions have been designed with the goal of making Indian cities 'Garbage Free' and 'Water Secure'

"In 2014, the countrymen took a pledge to make India open defecation free - ODF. The countrymen fulfilled this pledge with the construction of more than 10 crore toilets. Now, the goal of `Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0` is to make Garbage-Free City, a city completely free of garbage," said PM Modi while speaking at the event.

At the event, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri was also present.

"Swachh Bharat Mission has succeeded not only because of lakhs of toilets or bringing waste processing to 70 per cent but also because PM Modi made this project into a `Jan Andolan`," Puri said.

"These flagship missions signify a step forward in our march towards effectively addressing the challenges of rapidly urbanizing India and will also help contribute towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals 2030," said Prime Minister's Office.

He further said that the country`s target in the next phase of Mission AMRUT is `Increasing sewage and septic management, making our cities water safe cities` and ensuring that no sewage drains anywhere in our rivers.'

Swacch Bharat Mission- Urban 2.0 (SBM-U) aims to

<ul>
	<li>Make all cities &nbsp;`Garbage Free`</li>
	<li>Ensure grey and black water management in all cities</li>
	<li>Make all urban local bodies Open Defecation Free + (ODP+). Those with population of less than 1 lakh will be made ODF++&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Focus on source segregation of solid waste, utilizing the principles of 3Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle)</li>
	<li>Focus on scientific processing of all types of municipal solid waste and remediation of legacy dumpsites for effective solid waste management.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The outlay of SBM-U 2.0 is around Rs 1.41 lakh crore.</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

AMRUT 2.0 aims to&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Provide 100 per cent coverage of water supply to all households in around 4,700 urban local bodies by providing about 2.68 crore tap connections&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Provide 100 per cent coverage of sewerage and septage in 500 AMRUT cities by providing around 2.64 crore sewer/ septage connections, which will benefit more than 10.5 crore people in urban areas.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

 
AMRUT 2.0 will adopt the principles of circular economy and promote conservation and rejuvenation of surface and groundwater bodies.&nbsp;

The Mission will promote data-led governance in water management and technology Sub-Mission to leverage latest global technologies and skills. `Pey Jal Survekshan` will be conducted to promote progressive competition among cities.&nbsp;

The outlay of AMRUT 2.0 is around Rs 2.87 lakh crore.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban (SBM-U) 2.0 and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 on Friday. The launch took place at Dr Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban (SBM-U) 2.0 and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 on Friday. The launch took place at Dr Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. These missions have been designed with the goal of making Indian cities 'Garbage Free' and 'Water Secure' "In 2014, the countrymen took a pledge to make India open defecation free - ODF. The countrymen fulfilled this pledge with the construction of more than 10 crore toilets. Now, the goal of `Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0` is to make Garbage-Free City, a city completely free of garbage," said PM Modi while speaking at the event. At the event, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri was also present. "Swachh Bharat Mission has succeeded not only because of lakhs of toilets or bringing waste processing to 70 per cent but also because PM Modi made this project into a `Jan Andolan`," Puri said. "These flagship missions signify a step forward in our march towards effectively addressing the challenges of rapidly urbanizing India and will also help contribute towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals 2030," said Prime Minister's Office. He further said that the country`s target in the next phase of Mission AMRUT is `Increasing sewage and septic management, making our cities water safe cities` and ensuring that no sewage drains anywhere in our rivers.' Swacch Bharat Mission- Urban 2.0 (SBM-U) aims to Make all cities `Garbage Free` Ensure grey and black water management in all cities Make all urban local bodies Open Defecation Free + (ODP+). Those with population of less than 1 lakh will be made ODF++ Focus on source segregation of solid waste, utilizing the principles of 3Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle) Focus on scientific processing of all types of municipal solid waste and remediation of legacy dumpsites for effective solid waste management. The outlay of SBM-U 2.0 is around Rs 1.41 lakh crore. AMRUT 2.0 aims to Provide 100 per cent coverage of water supply to all households in around 4,700 urban local bodies by providing about 2.68 crore tap connections Provide 100 per cent coverage of sewerage and septage in 500 AMRUT cities by providing around 2.64 crore sewer/ septage connections, which will benefit more than 10.5 crore people in urban areas. AMRUT 2.0 will adopt the principles of circular economy and promote conservation and rejuvenation of surface and groundwater bodies. The Mission will promote data-led governance in water management and technology Sub-Mission to leverage latest global technologies and skills. `Pey Jal Survekshan` will be conducted to promote progressive competition among cities. The outlay of AMRUT 2.0 is around Rs 2.87 lakh crore. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi launches ambitious Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0, AMRUT 2.0

Amid social networks' crackdown on health misinformation, YouTube said on Wednesday that it was going to remove anti-vaccine content&nbsp;including that of&nbsp;high-profile users who claim approved vaccines are dangerous. YouTube has already banned posts that spread false myths around coronavirus treatments.

But the Google-owned site said its concerns about the spread of medical conspiracy theories went beyond the pandemic.

"We've steadily seen false claims about the coronavirus vaccines spill over into misinformation about vaccines in general," YouTube said in a statement.

"We're now at a point where it's more important than ever to expand the work we started with COVID-19 to other vaccines."

A YouTube spokesperson named channels affiliated with Joseph Mercola, Sherri Tenpenny, Robert F Kennedy junior and said that "well-known vaccine misinformation spreaders will be terminated."

An AFP investigation found that Tenpenny runs a sprawling enterprise based on anti-vaccine activism, disdain for masks and testing, and denials that COVID-19 is real.

Mercola, a Florida-based osteopathic physician, was the subject of a New York Times article titled: "The most influential spreader of coronavirus misinformation online".

Robert F Kennedy Jr. had already been blocked from Instagram in February for spreading misinformation about Covid-19 and vaccines.

130,000 videos removed

YouTube said the expanded policy will apply to "currently administered vaccines that are approved and confirmed to be safe and effective by local health authorities and the WHO (World Health Organization)."

This means that false claims about routine vaccines for diseases like measles and Hepatitis B will be removed from YouTube.

These would include cases where vloggers have claimed that approved vaccines do not work, or wrongly linked them to chronic health effects.

Content that "falsely says that approved vaccines cause autism, cancer or infertility, or that substances in vaccines can track those who receive them" will also be taken down.

"As with any significant update, it will take time for our systems to fully ramp up enforcement," YouTube added.

It stressed there would be exceptions to the new guidelines, with personal testimonials of negative experiences with vaccines still allowed, so long as "the channel doesn't show a pattern of promoting vaccine hesitancy."

YouTube said it had removed more than 130,000 videos since last year for violating its COVID-19 vaccine policies.

On Tuesday, the company told German media that it had blocked the German-language channels of Russia's state broadcaster RT for violating its Covid misinformation guidelines.

YouTube said it had issued a warning to RT before shutting the two channels down, but the move has prompted a threat from Moscow to block the video site.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid social networks' crackdown on health misinformation, YouTube said on Wednesday that it was going to remove anti-vaccine content including that of high-profile users who claim approved vaccines are dangerous.

Amid social networks' crackdown on health misinformation, YouTube said on Wednesday that it was going to remove anti-vaccine content including that of high-profile users who claim approved vaccines are dangerous. YouTube has already banned posts that spread false myths around coronavirus treatments. But the Google-owned site said its concerns about the spread of medical conspiracy theories went beyond the pandemic. "We've steadily seen false claims about the coronavirus vaccines spill over into misinformation about vaccines in general," YouTube said in a statement. "We're now at a point where it's more important than ever to expand the work we started with COVID-19 to other vaccines." A YouTube spokesperson named channels affiliated with Joseph Mercola, Sherri Tenpenny, Robert F Kennedy junior and said that "well-known vaccine misinformation spreaders will be terminated." An AFP investigation found that Tenpenny runs a sprawling enterprise based on anti-vaccine activism, disdain for masks and testing, and denials that COVID-19 is real. Mercola, a Florida-based osteopathic physician, was the subject of a New York Times article titled: "The most influential spreader of coronavirus misinformation online". Robert F Kennedy Jr. had already been blocked from Instagram in February for spreading misinformation about Covid-19 and vaccines. 130,000 videos removed YouTube said the expanded policy will apply to "currently administered vaccines that are approved and confirmed to be safe and effective by local health authorities and the WHO (World Health Organization)." This means that false claims about routine vaccines for diseases like measles and Hepatitis B will be removed from YouTube. These would include cases where vloggers have claimed that approved vaccines do not work, or wrongly linked them to chronic health effects. Content that "falsely says that approved vaccines cause autism, cancer or infertility, or that substances in vaccines can track those who receive them" will also be taken down. "As with any significant update, it will take time for our systems to fully ramp up enforcement," YouTube added. It stressed there would be exceptions to the new guidelines, with personal testimonials of negative experiences with vaccines still allowed, so long as "the channel doesn't show a pattern of promoting vaccine hesitancy." YouTube said it had removed more than 130,000 videos since last year for violating its COVID-19 vaccine policies. On Tuesday, the company told German media that it had blocked the German-language channels of Russia's state broadcaster RT for violating its Covid misinformation guidelines. YouTube said it had issued a warning to RT before shutting the two channels down, but the move has prompted a threat from Moscow to block the video site. (With inputs from agencies)

YouTube to block all content spreading vaccine misinformation

Ecuador President Guillermo Lasso said on Wednesday that death toll of Ecuador prison riot has risen to 116. He added that he would send additional security forces and free up funds to avoid repeat of such a violence.

On Tuesday night, another 80 inmates were injured in clashes at the Penitenciaria del Litoral in Guayas province, which has been the scene of bloody fights between gangs for control of the prison in recent months.

"It is unfortunate that criminal groups are attempting to convert prisons into a battleground for power disputes," Lasso told reporters in Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city. "I ask God to bless Ecuador and that we can avoid more loss of human life."

<img alt="Ecuador" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d9f24840-5ff7-4438-9815-0e046d85861c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2021-09-29T205903Z_1_LYNXMPEH8S18P_RTROPTP_4_ECUADOR-PRISON.JPG" />

(Family members of inmates wait at the Penitenciaria del Litoral jail after prisoners died and others were injured in a riot in Guayaquil, Ecuador, September 28, 2021. Picture taken September 28, 2021. )

The clash on Tuesday was the most deadly act of violence ever in Ecuador's penitentiary system. In February and in July 2021, similar clashed took place in various prisons in the country.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-revokes-citizenship-of-julian-assange-401090">Ecuador revokes citizenship of Julian Assange</a>

At least 79 people died in the February violence, and in July at least 22 lives were lost.

Dozens of people arrived at the jail to seek information about relatives and demand accountability from officials responsible for the inmates' safety. The government bolstered military presence outside the facility. Lasso said the state would assist the families of dead and injured inmates.

The South American country's prosecutor's office said earlier on Wednesday that six of the slain prisoners at Penitenciaria del Litoral had been decapitated.

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) has previously condemned the violence, and Human Rights Watch urged Ecuador's government to fully investigate the prison violence and bring those responsible to justice.

Lasso in August said the government would provide more funding for the overcrowded prison system to build new wards and install new equipment to improve security.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ecuador President Guillermo Lasso said on Wednesday that death toll of Ecuador prison riot has risen to 116. He added that he would send additional security forces and free up funds to avoid repeat of such a violence.

Ecuador President Guillermo Lasso said on Wednesday that death toll of Ecuador prison riot has risen to 116. He added that he would send additional security forces and free up funds to avoid repeat of such a violence. On Tuesday night, another 80 inmates were injured in clashes at the Penitenciaria del Litoral in Guayas province, which has been the scene of bloody fights between gangs for control of the prison in recent months. "It is unfortunate that criminal groups are attempting to convert prisons into a battleground for power disputes," Lasso told reporters in Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city. "I ask God to bless Ecuador and that we can avoid more loss of human life." (Family members of inmates wait at the Penitenciaria del Litoral jail after prisoners died and others were injured in a riot in Guayaquil, Ecuador, September 28, 2021. Picture taken September 28, 2021. ) The clash on Tuesday was the most deadly act of violence ever in Ecuador's penitentiary system. In February and in July 2021, similar clashed took place in various prisons in the country. Also Read | Ecuador revokes citizenship of Julian Assange At least 79 people died in the February violence, and in July at least 22 lives were lost. Dozens of people arrived at the jail to seek information about relatives and demand accountability from officials responsible for the inmates' safety. The government bolstered military presence outside the facility. Lasso said the state would assist the families of dead and injured inmates. The South American country's prosecutor's office said earlier on Wednesday that six of the slain prisoners at Penitenciaria del Litoral had been decapitated. The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) has previously condemned the violence, and Human Rights Watch urged Ecuador's government to fully investigate the prison violence and bring those responsible to justice. Lasso in August said the government would provide more funding for the overcrowded prison system to build new wards and install new equipment to improve security. (With inputs from agencies)

Ecuador prison riots: Death toll crosses 100

Mohib Ullah, a top Rohingya community leader was shot dead on Wednesday in Bangladesh's resort district of Cox's Bazar.

As per police spokesman of Cox's Bazar, Mohib Ullah was talking with other refugee leaders outside his office after evening prayers when four assailants shot him dead.

"Four to five unidentified assailants shot him from close range. He was declared dead at a MSF hospital in the camp," said Rafiqul Islam, police spokesperson.

He said police and the Armed Police Battalion, which is tasked with ensuring security for the country's 34 Rohingya camps, have stepped up security, deploying hundreds more armed officers.

No arrest has been made as yet.

"We are conducting raids in the area," he said, adding Ullah had not alerted police of any threats from any group.&nbsp;

Ullah was outside ARPSH office at Kutupalong, the world's largest refugee settlement when he was killed.

"He was in a pool of blood. He was brought dead to the nearby MSF hospital," Nowkhim said from a hideout, adding that many Rohingya leaders have gone into hiding after Ullah's killing.

No one has claimed responsibility, but a Rohingya leader told AFP that Ullah was killed by the extremist group Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, which was behind several attacks on Myanmar security posts in recent years 
"It is a work of ARSA," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Mohib Ullah, a top Rohingya community leader was shot dead on Wednesday in Bangladesh's resort district of Cox's Bazar. As per police spokesman of Cox's Bazar, Mohib Ullah was talking with other refugee leaders outside his office after evening prayers when four assailants shot him dead.

Mohib Ullah, a top Rohingya community leader was shot dead on Wednesday in Bangladesh's resort district of Cox's Bazar. As per police spokesman of Cox's Bazar, Mohib Ullah was talking with other refugee leaders outside his office after evening prayers when four assailants shot him dead. "Four to five unidentified assailants shot him from close range. He was declared dead at a MSF hospital in the camp," said Rafiqul Islam, police spokesperson. He said police and the Armed Police Battalion, which is tasked with ensuring security for the country's 34 Rohingya camps, have stepped up security, deploying hundreds more armed officers. No arrest has been made as yet. "We are conducting raids in the area," he said, adding Ullah had not alerted police of any threats from any group. Ullah was outside ARPSH office at Kutupalong, the world's largest refugee settlement when he was killed. "He was in a pool of blood. He was brought dead to the nearby MSF hospital," Nowkhim said from a hideout, adding that many Rohingya leaders have gone into hiding after Ullah's killing. No one has claimed responsibility, but a Rohingya leader told AFP that Ullah was killed by the extremist group Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, which was behind several attacks on Myanmar security posts in recent years "It is a work of ARSA," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Top Rohingya community leader shot dead in Bangladesh

A top US general said on Wednesday that US military was aware of civilian casualities in the drone strike carried out in Afghanistan in the aftermath of Kabul airport blasts. However, there had been no admission of civilian casualties from the military for weeks after the drone strike.

General Kenneth McKenzie said during a House hearing that the August 29 drone strike was a "tragic mistake" and accepted responsibility for it.

10 Afghan civilians were killed in the drone strike.

WION was first to report from ground that the drone strike claimed lives of Afghan civilians. WION's Anas Mallick was at the very spot of the drone attack soon after it took place.&nbsp;

General McKenzie said that the US military knew "within 4 to 5 hours" after the strike about the civilian casualties.

Given the delay in admission on the part of USA, it certainly appears that it has come too little too late.

During his House hearing, McKenzie sought to underline that military was unaware that target of the strike was an 'error' and it took few days to "run that down".

Initial statement from US Central Command had said that they had "no indication" as they assessed the possibility of civilian casualties.

The drone attack was carried out by the USA in retaliation to blasts at Kabul airport. The responsibility of the attack was taken by ISIS-K. The drone attack was said to have targetted those involved carrying out blasts at the airport.

A top US general said on Wednesday that US military was aware of civilian casualities in the drone strike carried out in Afghanistan in the aftermath of Kabul airport blasts.

A top US general said on Wednesday that US military was aware of civilian casualities in the drone strike carried out in Afghanistan in the aftermath of Kabul airport blasts. However, there had been no admission of civilian casualties from the military for weeks after the drone strike. General Kenneth McKenzie said during a House hearing that the August 29 drone strike was a "tragic mistake" and accepted responsibility for it. 10 Afghan civilians were killed in the drone strike. WION was first to report from ground that the drone strike claimed lives of Afghan civilians. WION's Anas Mallick was at the very spot of the drone attack soon after it took place. General McKenzie said that the US military knew "within 4 to 5 hours" after the strike about the civilian casualties. Given the delay in admission on the part of USA, it certainly appears that it has come too little too late. During his House hearing, McKenzie sought to underline that military was unaware that target of the strike was an 'error' and it took few days to "run that down". Initial statement from US Central Command had said that they had "no indication" as they assessed the possibility of civilian casualties. The drone attack was carried out by the USA in retaliation to blasts at Kabul airport. The responsibility of the attack was taken by ISIS-K. The drone attack was said to have targetted those involved carrying out blasts at the airport.

Kabul drone strike: US military knew about civilian casualties but didn't admit initially

When anyone says galaxy, it brings to mind a pool of stars, planets and even existence of life. With various processes, explosions, star births, a notion of liveliness is associated with the word 'galaxy'. But when we say 'dead' galaxies. An unknown gloom sets in.

Using NASA's Hubble Space telescope and Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA), astronomers have found at least six, massive galaxies which were 'dead' at the time universe was 3 billion years old.

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Cold Hydrogen is required to form new stars. These dead galaxies had run out of cold hydrogen. Since there was no fuel, the galaxies could not make new stars and thus, were 'empty'.

As per scientists, these galaxies being dead was a surprising thing as when the universe was 3 billion years old, there was a spurt of star formation. It was the 'peak epoch' of star formation.

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NASA has said there is generally less likelihood of these galaxies rejuvenating even after minor mergers with nearby small galaxies.

Study of these dead galaxies has been published in the journal Nature.

When anyone says galaxy, it brings to mind a pool of stars, planets and even existence of life. With various processes, explosions, star births, a notion of liveliness is associated with the word 'galaxy'.

When anyone says galaxy, it brings to mind a pool of stars, planets and even existence of life. With various processes, explosions, star births, a notion of liveliness is associated with the word 'galaxy'. But when we say 'dead' galaxies. An unknown gloom sets in. Using NASA's Hubble Space telescope and Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA), astronomers have found at least six, massive galaxies which were 'dead' at the time universe was 3 billion years old. Also Read | Winds on Jupiter are speeding up and no one knows why Cold Hydrogen is required to form new stars. These dead galaxies had run out of cold hydrogen. Since there was no fuel, the galaxies could not make new stars and thus, were 'empty'. As per scientists, these galaxies being dead was a surprising thing as when the universe was 3 billion years old, there was a spurt of star formation. It was the 'peak epoch' of star formation. Also Read | Astronaut posts breathtaking photo of aurora taken from above Earth NASA has said there is generally less likelihood of these galaxies rejuvenating even after minor mergers with nearby small galaxies. Study of these dead galaxies has been published in the journal Nature.

NASA's Hubble space telescope finds dead galaxies

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan lauded three-hour talks as "useful" and "productive" as they met to discuss the Syrian conflict.

It was their first face-to-face talks in 18 months.&nbsp;

The Russian leader hosted Erdogan at his Black Sea residence in the resort of Sochi after two weeks in self-isolation following a coronavirus outbreak among aides.

The two men, who did not address reporters after the talks, had been expected to discuss northwestern Syria where regime troops and Moscow have ratcheted up airstrikes in recent weeks.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-bases-in-central-asia-came-up-during-putin-biden-talks-us-defence-secretary-416657">Russian bases in Central Asia came up during Putin-Biden talks: US Defence Secretary</a>

On Tuesday, Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar had said Ankara hoped the &nbsp;talks would result in a return to "a peaceful situation according to our agreement."

In a warm post-negotiation exchange, that included a discussion of their coronavirus antibody levels, Putin thanked Erdogan, calling the visit "useful and informative."

"We will be in touch," he added.

Writing on Twitter, Erdogan called the talks "productive".

Russia and Turkey have historically had complex relations, balancing regional rivalries with finding common ground on economic and strategic interests.&nbsp;

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In recent years, the two powers have clashed in particular in Syria, where Moscow and Ankara support opposing camps in the civil war.&nbsp;

In Syria, they last year sponsored a ceasefire deal in the northwestern Idlib region, home to the last major jihadist and rebel stronghold in northwest Syria.&nbsp;

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said at least 11 fighters from a pro-Turkish rebel group had been killed Sunday in Russian air raids outside the north Syria town of Afrin.

The war monitor said such Russian raids are rare in this region of Syria, which has been controlled by Turkey and its Syrian rebel allies for three years.

'Compromises'

Earlier in the day Erdogan told Putin he believes there are great benefits in "Turkey and Russia keeping stronger relations each passing day".&nbsp;

"The steps we have taken with Russia related to Syria are of utmost importance," Erdogan said. "The peace there depends on Turkey-Russia relations."&nbsp;

The two countries also found themselves on different sides in last year's conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan in the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh.&nbsp;

"Negotiations are sometimes difficult -- but with a final positive result," Putin told Erdogan.

He added that they "have learned to find compromises favourable to both parties".

The two countries have grown closer in recent years thanks to tensions between Moscow and the West and Ankara's increasingly delicate relations with its NATO allies.&nbsp;

In 2019, Turkey agreed a multi-billion-dollar purchase of the Russian-made S-400 air defence system that led to US sanctions last year.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan lauded three-hour talks as "useful" and "productive" as they met to discuss the Syrian conflict.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan lauded three-hour talks as "useful" and "productive" as they met to discuss the Syrian conflict. It was their first face-to-face talks in 18 months. The Russian leader hosted Erdogan at his Black Sea residence in the resort of Sochi after two weeks in self-isolation following a coronavirus outbreak among aides. The two men, who did not address reporters after the talks, had been expected to discuss northwestern Syria where regime troops and Moscow have ratcheted up airstrikes in recent weeks. Also Read | Russian bases in Central Asia came up during Putin-Biden talks: US Defence Secretary On Tuesday, Turkish Defence Minister Hulusi Akar had said Ankara hoped the talks would result in a return to "a peaceful situation according to our agreement." In a warm post-negotiation exchange, that included a discussion of their coronavirus antibody levels, Putin thanked Erdogan, calling the visit "useful and informative." "We will be in touch," he added. Writing on Twitter, Erdogan called the talks "productive". Russia and Turkey have historically had complex relations, balancing regional rivalries with finding common ground on economic and strategic interests. Also Read | Kremlin releases photos of Vladimir Putin hiking and fishing in Siberia In recent years, the two powers have clashed in particular in Syria, where Moscow and Ankara support opposing camps in the civil war. In Syria, they last year sponsored a ceasefire deal in the northwestern Idlib region, home to the last major jihadist and rebel stronghold in northwest Syria. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said at least 11 fighters from a pro-Turkish rebel group had been killed Sunday in Russian air raids outside the north Syria town of Afrin. The war monitor said such Russian raids are rare in this region of Syria, which has been controlled by Turkey and its Syrian rebel allies for three years. 'Compromises' Earlier in the day Erdogan told Putin he believes there are great benefits in "Turkey and Russia keeping stronger relations each passing day". "The steps we have taken with Russia related to Syria are of utmost importance," Erdogan said. "The peace there depends on Turkey-Russia relations." The two countries also found themselves on different sides in last year's conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan in the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh. "Negotiations are sometimes difficult -- but with a final positive result," Putin told Erdogan. He added that they "have learned to find compromises favourable to both parties". The two countries have grown closer in recent years thanks to tensions between Moscow and the West and Ankara's increasingly delicate relations with its NATO allies. In 2019, Turkey agreed a multi-billion-dollar purchase of the Russian-made S-400 air defence system that led to US sanctions last year.

Putin praises 'useful' Erdogan talks

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