Aurora Borealis is an unforgettable experience for someone who has witnessed it. The free play of colours in the dark night sky is mesmerising to watch. Those who travel to Scandinavian countries do not miss the grand light-show of the nature.

But now it is being said by the scientists that Auroras cause depletion of Ozone layer. A group of scientists led by Prof. Yoshizumi Miyoshi from Nagoya University, Japan, has observed, analysed, and provided greater insight into this phenomenon. The findings are published in the journal Nature`s Scientific Reports

Prof Miyoshi and his team observed a moderate geomagnetic storm over the Scandinavian Peninsula in 2017.

Auroras are formed by interaction between solar electrons and Earth's magnetic field.&nbsp;

In fact, computer simulations using European Incoherent Scatter (EISCAT) radar data showed that these electrons immediately deplete the local ozone in the mesosphere (by more than 10%) upon hitting it.&nbsp;

Prof. Miyoshi explains, "Pulsating Aurorae occur almost daily, are spread over large areas, and last for hours. Therefore, the ozone depletion from these events could be significant.

"Speaking of the greater significance of these findings, Prof. Miyoshi continues: "This is only a case study. Further statistical studies are needed to confirm how much ozone destruction occurs in the middle atmosphere because of electron precipitation. After all, the impact of this phenomenon on the climate could potentially impact modern life."

(With inputs from agencies)

Aurora Borealis is an unforgettable experience for someone who has witnessed it. The free play of colours in the dark night sky is mesmerising to watch. Those who travel to Scandinavian countries do not miss the grand light-show of the nature.

Aurora Borealis is an unforgettable experience for someone who has witnessed it. The free play of colours in the dark night sky is mesmerising to watch. Those who travel to Scandinavian countries do not miss the grand light-show of the nature. But now it is being said by the scientists that Auroras cause depletion of Ozone layer. A group of scientists led by Prof. Yoshizumi Miyoshi from Nagoya University, Japan, has observed, analysed, and provided greater insight into this phenomenon. The findings are published in the journal Nature`s Scientific Reports Prof Miyoshi and his team observed a moderate geomagnetic storm over the Scandinavian Peninsula in 2017. Auroras are formed by interaction between solar electrons and Earth's magnetic field. In fact, computer simulations using European Incoherent Scatter (EISCAT) radar data showed that these electrons immediately deplete the local ozone in the mesosphere (by more than 10%) upon hitting it. Prof. Miyoshi explains, "Pulsating Aurorae occur almost daily, are spread over large areas, and last for hours. Therefore, the ozone depletion from these events could be significant. "Speaking of the greater significance of these findings, Prof. Miyoshi continues: "This is only a case study. Further statistical studies are needed to confirm how much ozone destruction occurs in the middle atmosphere because of electron precipitation. After all, the impact of this phenomenon on the climate could potentially impact modern life." (With inputs from agencies)

The beautiful Aurora may be depleting the Ozone layer: Study

Tortoise is generally the good guy in all our imaginations. From the tale of Hare and the Tortoise to sighing at images of them stuck in fishing nets, we all grow up. The silent creature moves along slowly and generally avoids any trouble.

But a new video has made all of this go for a toss. The video captures a female tortoise slowly approaching a flightless bird chick before attacking and eating it.

This video is being hailed as first documented instance of a Tortoise deliberately approaching, killing and consuming another organism.

The seven-minute video was shot on Frigate Island in Seychelles. It reportedly is a gruesome but fascinating watch.

"I couldn't believe what I was seeing...It was horrifying and amazing at the same time," Biologist Justin Gerlach from Cambridge University was mentioned as saying on ScienceAlert.

The video and the study has settled the question that Tortoises are not strictly herbivores. The study has been published in the journal Current Biology.

Tortoise is generally the good guy in all our imaginations. From the tale of Hare and the Tortoise to sighing at images of them stuck in fishing nets, we all grow up.

Tortoise is generally the good guy in all our imaginations. From the tale of Hare and the Tortoise to sighing at images of them stuck in fishing nets, we all grow up. The silent creature moves along slowly and generally avoids any trouble. But a new video has made all of this go for a toss. The video captures a female tortoise slowly approaching a flightless bird chick before attacking and eating it. This video is being hailed as first documented instance of a Tortoise deliberately approaching, killing and consuming another organism. The seven-minute video was shot on Frigate Island in Seychelles. It reportedly is a gruesome but fascinating watch. "I couldn't believe what I was seeing...It was horrifying and amazing at the same time," Biologist Justin Gerlach from Cambridge University was mentioned as saying on ScienceAlert. The video and the study has settled the question that Tortoises are not strictly herbivores. The study has been published in the journal Current Biology.

Tortoise filmed hunting a bird for first time ever

New Zealand recorded its highest increase in Covid-19 cases since April 2020. Authorities warned that the current outbreak of Delta variant was like dealing with an entirely new virus.

New Zealand's virus-free run since February ended last week as a Delta variant outbreak erupted in Auckland. It quickly spread to capital Wellington.

On Tuesday, authorities reported 41 new Covid cases on Tuesday. This has taken number of infections in the country to 148.

Of the new cases, 38 are in Auckland and three are in Wellington. So far, eight people associated with the current outbreak are in hospital, the ministry said.

"Delta is unlike our previous experience. It is, as we know, highly infectious and transmissible and, as we have seen, spreads rapidly,” Bloomfield said at a news conference.

But he said it was reassuring to see the numbers were not rising exponentially and the majority were still in Auckland.

(With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand recorded its highest increase in Covid-19 cases since April 2020. Authorities warned that the current outbreak of Delta variant was like dealing with an entirely new virus.

New Zealand recorded its highest increase in Covid-19 cases since April 2020. Authorities warned that the current outbreak of Delta variant was like dealing with an entirely new virus. New Zealand's virus-free run since February ended last week as a Delta variant outbreak erupted in Auckland. It quickly spread to capital Wellington. On Tuesday, authorities reported 41 new Covid cases on Tuesday. This has taken number of infections in the country to 148. Of the new cases, 38 are in Auckland and three are in Wellington. So far, eight people associated with the current outbreak are in hospital, the ministry said. "Delta is unlike our previous experience. It is, as we know, highly infectious and transmissible and, as we have seen, spreads rapidly,” Bloomfield said at a news conference. But he said it was reassuring to see the numbers were not rising exponentially and the majority were still in Auckland. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand: Delta variant spreads rapidly, new cases emerge

Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid held a second press conference on Tuesday. The group assertively opposed deadline extension in US pullback. Meanwhile, India raised the issue of Pakistan-based terror groups in light of the changing situation in Afghanistan. Read this and more in our Top 10 World News

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/evacuations-must-be-completed-by-august-31-afghans-not-allowed-to-go-to-airport-taliban-408053">Evacuations must be completed by August 31, Afghans not allowed to go to airport: Taliban</a> 
 
A Taliban spokesman on Tuesday said the United States should stop evacuating skilled Afghans, and warned Western forces against extending the August 31 deadline for airlifts out of the country.

<img alt="Taliban" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="51a0c62b-f5d2-4a85-915b-ab3ccb71e5d2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Taliban_0.JPG" />

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebooks-most-viewed-article-was-on-covid-vaccine-death-says-firm-amid-reports-of-withholding-info-408062">Facebook’s most viewed article was on COVID vaccine death, says firm amid reports of withholding info</a>

This information was part of Facebook’s first-quarter content transparency report that was released on Saturday—initially believed to be shelved.

<img alt="Facebook" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bb741256-4c78-455f-8e77-69c64ffb74b1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Facebook_2.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unhrc-meet-on-afghanistan-india-raises-concern-over-pakistan-based-terror-groups-408050">UNHRC meet on Afghanistan: India raises concern over Pakistan-based terror groups</a>

India stressed that in light of developments in Afghanistan, it should be ensured that its territory should not be used against other countries.

<img alt="India" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1449fc7-144a-456c-8bf7-4b002f050d3f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/India_1.JPG" />

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-arent-allowing-food-abducting-kids-and-elderly-says-afghans-acting-president-amrullah-saleh-408015">Taliban aren’t allowing food, abducting kids and elderly, says Afghan’s acting president Amrullah Saleh</a>

Saleh said the Taliban are abducting children and the elderly and using them as “shields” while conducting house raids

<img alt="Saleh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="532d565d-6d18-4733-b321-c0b1af304f6e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Amrullah%20Saleh.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-taliban-will-help-pakistan-conquer-kashmir-leader-of-imran-khans-party-408045">Watch | Taliban will help Pakistan conquer Kashmir: Leader of Imran Khan’s party</a>

Unabashedly admitting Pakistan military's close ties with Taliban and its anti-India agenda, a leader of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government has talked about taking help of the Taliban in Kashmir during an on-air television show.

<img alt="Imran Khan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26ed2783-aac2-4394-9b30-ebc8a89a5f5f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Imran%20Khan_3.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-us-jets-evacuating-afghans-make-diving-combat-landings-drop-flares-amid-isis-missile-fears-407853">Watch: US jets evacuating Afghans make ‘diving combat landings’, drop flares amid ISIS missile fears</a>

US military planes are doing rapid diving combat landings to beat the threat of a missile attack, with video showing a French transport plane yesterday deploying flares designed to confuse heat-seeking technology which may have been stolen by Islamic State in Afghanistan.

<img alt="US jets" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8827508d-b673-45a2-8347-e2b3807277ef" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Flares.JPG" />

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-gets-275-billion-in-covid-19-support-funds-from-imf-408020">Pakistan gets $2.75 billion in COVID-19 support funds from IMF</a> 
 
The funds, part of a $650 billion global programme, will shore up Pakistan's foreign reserves, under pressure from a rise in the current account deficit and falling remittances from workers based abroad.&nbsp;

<img alt="IMF" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d8ecb770-71bd-4ab4-8e29-f2e4bc927dd4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Imran%20Khan%20IMF.JPG" />

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-russia-form-permanent-bilateral-channel-for-consultations-on-afghanistan-408064">India, Russia form 'permanent bilateral channel' for consultations on Afghanistan</a>

Both India and Russia have reasons to be wary of Taliban rise in Afghanistan

<img alt="Modi Putin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="57590666-3103-4565-a266-bf39ad9685cb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/modi%20putin.JPG" />

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/situation-is-serious-says-afghan-sikh-mp-narendra-khalsa-407909">Situation is serious, says Afghan Sikh MP Narendra Khalsa</a> 
 
Narendra Singh Khalsa is the son of Awtar Singh Khalsa, who was a Sikh representative to the Loya Jirga from Paktia province of Afghanistan.

<img alt="Sikh" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dbf895cc-fd46-4afb-9e45-15764e79bcea" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Afghan%20MP.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astronauts-medical-issue-makes-nasa-delay-spacewalk-at-iss-408014">Astronaut’s medical issue makes NASA delay spacewalk at ISS &nbsp;</a> 
 
Medical issue with one of its astronauts has forced NASA to delay the spacewalk at the International Space Station. The postponement was announced by the officials on Monday, just less than 24 hours before Mark Vande Hei was supposed to float outside&nbsp;

<img alt="ISS" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c704a5fd-6b82-440b-84d6-fab82d8da634" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ISS.JPG" />

Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid held a second press conference on Tuesday. The group assertively opposed deadline extension in US pullback. Meanwhile, India raised the issue of Pakistan-based terror groups in light of the changing situation in Afghanistan.

Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid held a second press conference on Tuesday. The group assertively opposed deadline extension in US pullback. Meanwhile, India raised the issue of Pakistan-based terror groups in light of the changing situation in Afghanistan. Read this and more in our Top 10 World News Evacuations must be completed by August 31, Afghans not allowed to go to airport: Taliban A Taliban spokesman on Tuesday said the United States should stop evacuating skilled Afghans, and warned Western forces against extending the August 31 deadline for airlifts out of the country. Facebook’s most viewed article was on COVID vaccine death, says firm amid reports of withholding info This information was part of Facebook’s first-quarter content transparency report that was released on Saturday—initially believed to be shelved. UNHRC meet on Afghanistan: India raises concern over Pakistan-based terror groups India stressed that in light of developments in Afghanistan, it should be ensured that its territory should not be used against other countries. Taliban aren’t allowing food, abducting kids and elderly, says Afghan’s acting president Amrullah Saleh Saleh said the Taliban are abducting children and the elderly and using them as “shields” while conducting house raids Watch | Taliban will help Pakistan conquer Kashmir: Leader of Imran Khan’s party Unabashedly admitting Pakistan military's close ties with Taliban and its anti-India agenda, a leader of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government has talked about taking help of the Taliban in Kashmir during an on-air television show. Watch: US jets evacuating Afghans make ‘diving combat landings’, drop flares amid ISIS missile fears US military planes are doing rapid diving combat landings to beat the threat of a missile attack, with video showing a French transport plane yesterday deploying flares designed to confuse heat-seeking technology which may have been stolen by Islamic State in Afghanistan. Pakistan gets $2.75 billion in COVID-19 support funds from IMF The funds, part of a $650 billion global programme, will shore up Pakistan's foreign reserves, under pressure from a rise in the current account deficit and falling remittances from workers based abroad. India, Russia form 'permanent bilateral channel' for consultations on Afghanistan Both India and Russia have reasons to be wary of Taliban rise in Afghanistan Situation is serious, says Afghan Sikh MP Narendra Khalsa Narendra Singh Khalsa is the son of Awtar Singh Khalsa, who was a Sikh representative to the Loya Jirga from Paktia province of Afghanistan. Astronaut’s medical issue makes NASA delay spacewalk at ISS Medical issue with one of its astronauts has forced NASA to delay the spacewalk at the International Space Station. The postponement was announced by the officials on Monday, just less than 24 hours before Mark Vande Hei was supposed to float outside

Top 10 World News: Taliban's second press conference, latest situation; more

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday declared USD 135 for pensioners in an apparent bid to drum up support ahead of next month's parliamentary elections. It is considered that Putin's ruling United Russia Party may struggle.

Putin has already announced many social spendings aimed at acting as sweetener in the election season. Rising prices and falling wages have dented United Russia's ratings.

As per a statement by the Kremlin, Putin has ordered payments of 10,000 rubles (USD 135). The payment will be handed out in September. This effectively doubles the monthly state pension.&nbsp;

In a meeting with United Russia officials on Sunday, Putin said that pensioners had been hit hardest by this year's soaring inflation.&nbsp;

Annual inflation in Russia has reached 6.5 per cent. The central bank in June hiked key interest rate to the same figure. This is the biggest increase since 2014 currency crisis.

Putin on Sunday also proposed giving 15,000-ruble bonuses to military staff.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-want-afghan-militants-in-russia-says-putin-407630">Don’t want Afghan militants in Russia, says Putin</a>

In June he promised to spend billions on repairing roads and developing public transport, infrastructure and healthcare.&nbsp;

United Russia's ratings started falling steeply in 2018 after the government passed a controversial pension reform plan that raised the retirement age.

The move came as Russia's economy had been stagnating, battered by waves of Western sanctions after Moscow annexed Crimea in 2014.&nbsp;

Ahead of next month's election, United Russia is polling around 30 percent, according to state-run pollster VTsIOM -- a 10-point drop from the last lower house elections in 2016.

The party currently controls 75 percent of seats in the State Duma, with the rest held by parties widely seen as doing the Kremlin's bidding.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday declared USD 135 for pensioners in an apparent bid to drum up support ahead of next month's parliamentary elections. It is considered that Putin's ruling United Russia Party may struggle.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday declared USD 135 for pensioners in an apparent bid to drum up support ahead of next month's parliamentary elections. It is considered that Putin's ruling United Russia Party may struggle. Putin has already announced many social spendings aimed at acting as sweetener in the election season. Rising prices and falling wages have dented United Russia's ratings. As per a statement by the Kremlin, Putin has ordered payments of 10,000 rubles (USD 135). The payment will be handed out in September. This effectively doubles the monthly state pension. In a meeting with United Russia officials on Sunday, Putin said that pensioners had been hit hardest by this year's soaring inflation. Annual inflation in Russia has reached 6.5 per cent. The central bank in June hiked key interest rate to the same figure. This is the biggest increase since 2014 currency crisis. Putin on Sunday also proposed giving 15,000-ruble bonuses to military staff. Also Read: Don’t want Afghan militants in Russia, says Putin In June he promised to spend billions on repairing roads and developing public transport, infrastructure and healthcare. United Russia's ratings started falling steeply in 2018 after the government passed a controversial pension reform plan that raised the retirement age. The move came as Russia's economy had been stagnating, battered by waves of Western sanctions after Moscow annexed Crimea in 2014. Ahead of next month's election, United Russia is polling around 30 percent, according to state-run pollster VTsIOM -- a 10-point drop from the last lower house elections in 2016. The party currently controls 75 percent of seats in the State Duma, with the rest held by parties widely seen as doing the Kremlin's bidding. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin declares cash payments for pensioners ahead of polls

Israel is witnessing effect on high Delta variant infection rate less than a month into Covid vaccine booster drive, say scientists and officials. Israel was impacted by the Delta variant just as the country was reaping benefits of its previous vaccine drive.

Delta hit Israel hard. The country went from single digit infections and zero deaths to 7500 daily cases last week. The week saw 150 deaths.

Third dose of the Pfizer/BioNtech vaccine begun to be administered to people over 60. It was the first country to do so.

<img alt="Israel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="80b59851-52ea-45dc-85cf-39cae2650687" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2021-08-24T052413Z_3_LYNXMPEH7N04G_RTROPTP_4_HEALTH-CORONAVIRUS-ISRAEL-BOOSTERS.JPG" />

On Thursday it expanded eligibility to 30-year-olds and up whose second dose was given at least 5 months prior, saying the age may drop further.

In the past 10 days, the pandemic is abating among the first age group, more than a million of whom have received a third vaccine dose, according to Israeli health ministry data and scientists interviewed by Reuters.

The rate of disease spread among vaccinated people age 60 and over - known as the reproduction rate - began falling steadily around Aug. 13 and has dipped below 1, indicating that each infected person is transmitting the virus to fewer than one other person. A reproduction rate of less than 1 means an outbreak is subsiding. https://tmsnrt.rs/3grj7kv

Scientists said booster shots are having an impact on infections, but other factors are likely contributing to the decline as well.

"The numbers are still very high but what has changed is that the very high increase in the rate of infections and severe cases has diminished, as has the pace at which the pandemic is spreading," said Eran Segal, data scientist at the Weizmann Institute of Science and an adviser to the government.

"This is likely due to the third booster shots, an uptake in people taking the first dose and the high number of people infected per week, possibly up to 100,000, who now have natural immunity," Segal said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel is witnessing effect on high Delta variant infection rate less than a month into Covid vaccine booster drive, say scientists and officials. Israel was impacted by the Delta variant just as the country was reaping benefits of its previous vaccine drive.

Israel is witnessing effect on high Delta variant infection rate less than a month into Covid vaccine booster drive, say scientists and officials. Israel was impacted by the Delta variant just as the country was reaping benefits of its previous vaccine drive. Delta hit Israel hard. The country went from single digit infections and zero deaths to 7500 daily cases last week. The week saw 150 deaths. Third dose of the Pfizer/BioNtech vaccine begun to be administered to people over 60. It was the first country to do so. On Thursday it expanded eligibility to 30-year-olds and up whose second dose was given at least 5 months prior, saying the age may drop further. In the past 10 days, the pandemic is abating among the first age group, more than a million of whom have received a third vaccine dose, according to Israeli health ministry data and scientists interviewed by Reuters. The rate of disease spread among vaccinated people age 60 and over - known as the reproduction rate - began falling steadily around Aug. 13 and has dipped below 1, indicating that each infected person is transmitting the virus to fewer than one other person. A reproduction rate of less than 1 means an outbreak is subsiding. https://tmsnrt.rs/3grj7kv Scientists said booster shots are having an impact on infections, but other factors are likely contributing to the decline as well. "The numbers are still very high but what has changed is that the very high increase in the rate of infections and severe cases has diminished, as has the pace at which the pandemic is spreading," said Eran Segal, data scientist at the Weizmann Institute of Science and an adviser to the government. "This is likely due to the third booster shots, an uptake in people taking the first dose and the high number of people infected per week, possibly up to 100,000, who now have natural immunity," Segal said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel's booster Covid vaccine drive shows effect on Delta variant spread

Far-right and left-wing protests turned violent due to clashes on Sunday (August 22) in Portland, USA. At least one man was arrested for firing a gun at demonstrators. Nobody was hurt in the exchange of gunfire.

By Sunday evening, there was no word as to the injuries caused in brawls in which opposing sides were seen dousing each other in what appeared bear spray. Car windows of rivals were smashed.

Police Chief Chuck Lovell said during a briefing on Friday (August 20) that officers would not necessarily intervene to break up fights between the groups.

Portland has become a magnet for clashes between political extremists since last year.

Sunday's competing protests came on the anniversary of a clash that grew violent between right-wing and leftist crowds in downtown Portland, where a succession of street demonstrations last year followed the murder of George Floyd, a Black man, by a Minneapolis police officer on May 25, 2020.

(With inputs from agencies)

Far-right and left-wing protests turned violent due to clashes on Sunday (August 22) in Portland, USA. At least one man was arrested for firing a gun at demonstrators.

Far-right and left-wing protests turned violent due to clashes on Sunday (August 22) in Portland, USA. At least one man was arrested for firing a gun at demonstrators. Nobody was hurt in the exchange of gunfire. By Sunday evening, there was no word as to the injuries caused in brawls in which opposing sides were seen dousing each other in what appeared bear spray. Car windows of rivals were smashed. Police Chief Chuck Lovell said during a briefing on Friday (August 20) that officers would not necessarily intervene to break up fights between the groups. Portland has become a magnet for clashes between political extremists since last year. Sunday's competing protests came on the anniversary of a clash that grew violent between right-wing and leftist crowds in downtown Portland, where a succession of street demonstrations last year followed the murder of George Floyd, a Black man, by a Minneapolis police officer on May 25, 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

Far-right, far-left protests turn violent in Portland

Israel on Monday said that it would offer Covid vaccines to students on school grounds. It was also announced that school year would open on time next week in spite of surging coronavirus cases.

"Pupils... will be vaccinated on school grounds during school hours, subject to parental approval," a government statement said, confirming classes would begin on September 1.

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Israeli leaders say they are trying to avoid repeating disruptive school closures amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

Israel has seen a steep rise in Covid infections after months.

On Monday, the health ministry said that 6467 new Covid cases were recorded in Israel just a day before. 1142 people were hospitalised

About 30 per cent of children between the ages 12 and 15 have received two vaccine doses in Israel. This is far less than any other age group.

The school reopening plan would also require pupils younger than 12 to bring parental approval to perform a coronavirus test on the first day of school.

Further, high school classes in cities with high rates of transmission would require 70 percent of students to be vaccinated or move to online learning.

Some in government had opposed vaccines in schools, with Education Minister Yifat Shasha-Biton saying in July that students could feel peer pressure to get vaccines.

On Monday she praised the plan on Twitter, writing, "Opening the school year -- vital to students' stability and mental resilience."

Ran Balicer, chairman of Israel's national expert panel on Covid-19, warned on public radio, "of course it will not be possible to completely prevent infections."

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Monday said that it would offer Covid vaccines to students on school grounds. It was also announced that school year would open on time next week in spite of surging coronavirus cases.

Israel on Monday said that it would offer Covid vaccines to students on school grounds. It was also announced that school year would open on time next week in spite of surging coronavirus cases. "Pupils... will be vaccinated on school grounds during school hours, subject to parental approval," a government statement said, confirming classes would begin on September 1. × Israeli leaders say they are trying to avoid repeating disruptive school closures amid the Covid-19 pandemic. Israel has seen a steep rise in Covid infections after months. On Monday, the health ministry said that 6467 new Covid cases were recorded in Israel just a day before. 1142 people were hospitalised About 30 per cent of children between the ages 12 and 15 have received two vaccine doses in Israel. This is far less than any other age group. The school reopening plan would also require pupils younger than 12 to bring parental approval to perform a coronavirus test on the first day of school. Further, high school classes in cities with high rates of transmission would require 70 percent of students to be vaccinated or move to online learning. Some in government had opposed vaccines in schools, with Education Minister Yifat Shasha-Biton saying in July that students could feel peer pressure to get vaccines. On Monday she praised the plan on Twitter, writing, "Opening the school year -- vital to students' stability and mental resilience." Ran Balicer, chairman of Israel's national expert panel on Covid-19, warned on public radio, "of course it will not be possible to completely prevent infections." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel to administer Covid vaccines in schools as they reopen

Former social affairs minister of Indonesia was sentenced to 12 years on Monday after he was convicted of taking USD 1.2 million in bribes. The money was linked to food aid for poor families affected by coronavirus pandemic.

The sentence was handed to Juliari Batubara, the minister by a court in Jakarta. Batubara was arrested in December. A sting operation had turned up suitcases, backpacks and envelopes stuffed with cash.

"The court sentences the defendant to 12 years in prison and orders him to pay 500 million rupiah ($35,000) in fines or serve six more months in prison," presiding judge Muhammad Damis told the hearing, which was held virtually for virus safety reasons.

The former politician was also ordered to pay the equivalent of about $1 million in restitution, or face an additional two years in prison, the court said.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/virginity-check-for-female-recruits-indonesian-army-ends-the-abusive-two-finger-test-404687">Virginity check for female recruits: Indonesian army ends the abusive two-finger test</a>

Batubara would take cash from two contractors hired to supply basic food packages for Indonesians hit hard by the health crisis, the court heard earlier.

President Joko Widodo vowed not to protect corrupt officials in the wake of Batubara's arrest and described the stolen funds as "the people's money".

Graft remains a big problem in Indonesia, where politicians are widely seen as among the most corrupt.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former social affairs minister of Indonesia was sentenced to 12 years on Monday after he was convicted of taking USD 1.2 million in bribes. The money was linked to food aid for poor families affected by coronavirus pandemic.

Former social affairs minister of Indonesia was sentenced to 12 years on Monday after he was convicted of taking USD 1.2 million in bribes. The money was linked to food aid for poor families affected by coronavirus pandemic. The sentence was handed to Juliari Batubara, the minister by a court in Jakarta. Batubara was arrested in December. A sting operation had turned up suitcases, backpacks and envelopes stuffed with cash. "The court sentences the defendant to 12 years in prison and orders him to pay 500 million rupiah ($35,000) in fines or serve six more months in prison," presiding judge Muhammad Damis told the hearing, which was held virtually for virus safety reasons. The former politician was also ordered to pay the equivalent of about $1 million in restitution, or face an additional two years in prison, the court said. Also Read: Virginity check for female recruits: Indonesian army ends the abusive two-finger test Batubara would take cash from two contractors hired to supply basic food packages for Indonesians hit hard by the health crisis, the court heard earlier. President Joko Widodo vowed not to protect corrupt officials in the wake of Batubara's arrest and described the stolen funds as "the people's money". Graft remains a big problem in Indonesia, where politicians are widely seen as among the most corrupt. (With inputs from agencies)

Indonesia ex-minister sentenced for 12 years over Covid aid fraud

World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Monday that more than 500 tonnes of medical supplies are stuck because of Kabul airport restrictions. It&nbsp;includes surgical equipment and kits to alleviate severe malnutrition.

The UN agency said it was critical that medical and food supplies reach about 300,000 people displaced in Afghanistan over past two months.

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Nearly 18.5 million people - half the population - rely on aid and the humanitarian needs are expected to grow due to drought. But the closure of Kabul airport to commercial flights has held up deliveries, WHO regional emergency director Dr&nbsp;Richard Brennan told Reuters.

"While the eyes of the world now are on the people being evacuated and the planes leaving, we need to get supplies in to help those who are left behind," Brennan said in an emailed statement.

He said that WHO was calling for empty planes to divert to its warehouse in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to collect the supplies on their way to pick up evacuees from the country.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-founder-of-only-all-girls-school-burns-records-for-students-safety-407754">Afghanistan: Founder of only all-girls school burns records for students' safety</a>

The WHO is also looking at setting up a "humanitarian air bridge" to send in supplies, Brennan added.

The executive director of the UN children's agency UNICEF, Henrietta Fore, said on Monday around 10 million children across Afghanistan need humanitarian assistance and that conditions are expected to deteriorate further.

(With inputs from agencies)

World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Monday that more than 500 tonnes of medical supplies are stuck because of Kabul airport restrictions. It includes surgical equipment and kits to alleviate severe malnutrition.

World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Monday that more than 500 tonnes of medical supplies are stuck because of Kabul airport restrictions. It includes surgical equipment and kits to alleviate severe malnutrition. The UN agency said it was critical that medical and food supplies reach about 300,000 people displaced in Afghanistan over past two months. × Nearly 18.5 million people - half the population - rely on aid and the humanitarian needs are expected to grow due to drought. But the closure of Kabul airport to commercial flights has held up deliveries, WHO regional emergency director Dr Richard Brennan told Reuters. "While the eyes of the world now are on the people being evacuated and the planes leaving, we need to get supplies in to help those who are left behind," Brennan said in an emailed statement. He said that WHO was calling for empty planes to divert to its warehouse in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to collect the supplies on their way to pick up evacuees from the country. Also Read: Afghanistan: Founder of only all-girls school burns records for students' safety The WHO is also looking at setting up a "humanitarian air bridge" to send in supplies, Brennan added. The executive director of the UN children's agency UNICEF, Henrietta Fore, said on Monday around 10 million children across Afghanistan need humanitarian assistance and that conditions are expected to deteriorate further. (With inputs from agencies)

Tonnes of medical supplies stuck due to Kabul airport restrictions: WHO

Although Taliban have given assurances that their regime would be different than&nbsp;the one in the 90s, apprehensions remain in Afghan society as to whether words will translate into positive action. The latest indicator of this sentiment surfaced as founder of the country's only all-girls boarding school&nbsp;burnt student records to protect them from Taliban's ire.

In a series of tweets, Shabana Basij-Rasikh, also posted video of the records being burnt.

"... I’m burning my students’ records not to erase them, but to protect them and their families..." she said in one of her tweets.

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Nearly 20 years later, as the founder of the only all-girls boarding school in Afghanistan, I’m burning my students’ records not to erase them, but to protect them and their families. 
2/6 <a href="https://t.co/JErbZCSPuC">pic.twitter.com/JErbZCSPuC</a>
— Shabana Basij-Rasikh (@sbasijrasikh) <a href="https://twitter.com/sbasijrasikh/status/1428776691820908548?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

She struck a defiant and valiant tone as she declared that she would continue to work for Afghan women's education.

"...As the world focuses on the dramatic - those Afghans who are managing to get out - the fire in me to invest in the education of Afghan girls who have no way out grows brighter, stronger, and louder," she tweeted.

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As the world focuses on the dramatic - those Afghans who are managing to get out - the fire in me to invest in the education of Afghan girls who have no way out grows brighter, stronger, and louder. 
3/6
— Shabana Basij-Rasikh (@sbasijrasikh) <a href="https://twitter.com/sbasijrasikh/status/1428776696858255365?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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During their regime in late 90s, the Taliban asserted their hardline beliefs against women's rights and women's education. The fearful memories haven't faded from collective Afghan conscience.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-woman-gives-birth-to-baby-girl-on-us-aircraft-at-germany-air-base-407619">Afghan woman gives birth to baby girl on US aircraft at Germany air base</a>

This is not the only case where attempts are made to destroy women students' educational records.

A few days ago, soon after Taliban's takeover of power in Kabul, a 24-year-old Afghan woman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-womans-impassioned-blog-makes-waves-online-406127">shared her similar ordeal in a blog</a> that made waves online.

Although Taliban have given assurances that their regime would be different than the one in the 90s, apprehensions remain in Afghan society as to whether words will translate into positive action.

Although Taliban have given assurances that their regime would be different than the one in the 90s, apprehensions remain in Afghan society as to whether words will translate into positive action. The latest indicator of this sentiment surfaced as founder of the country's only all-girls boarding school burnt student records to protect them from Taliban's ire. In a series of tweets, Shabana Basij-Rasikh, also posted video of the records being burnt. "... I’m burning my students’ records not to erase them, but to protect them and their families..." she said in one of her tweets. Nearly 20 years later, as the founder of the only all-girls boarding school in Afghanistan, I’m burning my students’ records not to erase them, but to protect them and their families. 2/6 pic.twitter.com/JErbZCSPuC — Shabana Basij-Rasikh (@sbasijrasikh) August 20, 2021 × She struck a defiant and valiant tone as she declared that she would continue to work for Afghan women's education. "...As the world focuses on the dramatic - those Afghans who are managing to get out - the fire in me to invest in the education of Afghan girls who have no way out grows brighter, stronger, and louder," she tweeted. As the world focuses on the dramatic - those Afghans who are managing to get out - the fire in me to invest in the education of Afghan girls who have no way out grows brighter, stronger, and louder. 3/6 — Shabana Basij-Rasikh (@sbasijrasikh) August 20, 2021 × During their regime in late 90s, the Taliban asserted their hardline beliefs against women's rights and women's education. The fearful memories haven't faded from collective Afghan conscience. Also Read: Afghan woman gives birth to baby girl on US aircraft at Germany air base This is not the only case where attempts are made to destroy women students' educational records. A few days ago, soon after Taliban's takeover of power in Kabul, a 24-year-old Afghan woman shared her similar ordeal in a blog that made waves online.

Afghanistan: Founder of only all-girls school burns records for students' safety

Assam was hit by an earthquake of magnitude 4 on Monday afternoon, an official bulletin said. 
As per the National Center for Seismology, the quake was recorded at 1.13 pm, having its epicentre at Kokrajhar in west Assam at a depth of 10 km. The place of occurrence was 90 km north of Tura in Meghalaya, it said.

People in the districts of western Assam and northern West Bengal ran out of their homes in panic.

There was no immediate report of any injury to anyone or damage to any property, officials said.

Northeast is in the high seismic zone, because of which earthquakes frequently hit the region.

A 6.4 magnitude quake had shaken Assam and parts of Northeast on April 28.

Assam was hit by an earthquake of magnitude 4 on Monday afternoon, an official bulletin said. As per the National Center for Seismology, the quake was recorded at 1.

Assam was hit by an earthquake of magnitude 4 on Monday afternoon, an official bulletin said. As per the National Center for Seismology, the quake was recorded at 1.13 pm, having its epicentre at Kokrajhar in west Assam at a depth of 10 km. The place of occurrence was 90 km north of Tura in Meghalaya, it said. People in the districts of western Assam and northern West Bengal ran out of their homes in panic. There was no immediate report of any injury to anyone or damage to any property, officials said. Northeast is in the high seismic zone, because of which earthquakes frequently hit the region. A 6.4 magnitude quake had shaken Assam and parts of Northeast on April 28.

4-magnitude earthquake hits west Assam, tremors felt in north Bengal

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