Assam's Environment and Forest Minister Parimal Suklabaidya on Saturday formally inaugurated the Dihing Patkai National Park.

It is a red-letter day for Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts and the state as a whole that the Dihing Patkai has been created as the seventh National Park, the minister said at a function organised here to mark the occasion.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had declared Dihing Patkai as a National Park on June 5 - the World Environment Day- and the official process was completed with the publication of the notification on June 15.

Two national parks, including Raimona National Park in the Bodoland Territorial Region, have come up within the first month of the second BJP government in the state.

The rich floral and faunal diversity of the park, well known for its rainforest, will soon attain the stature of one of the best national parks in the country, the minister said.

He called upon everyone to live in complete harmony with nature that 'provides us sustenance and keeps us alive'. 
The government would take necessary steps for infrastructure development of the park to attract tourists and open up vistas of opportunities for the unemployed youths, he added.

Union Minister of State for Food Processing Industries, Rameswar Teli and legislators of Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts, and officials of both the district were present on the occasion.

Earlier, the Forest Minister handed over the formal notification of the park to the people's representatives and the Director of conservation NGO, Nature's Beckon, Soumyadeep Datta.

He also unveiled the plaque at the main entrance of the park.

The Park which falls under the Jeypore range and Soraipung range of Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts cover an area of 234.26 sq km.

Known all over for its rainforest, the last remaining stretches of Assam Valley Tropical Wet Evergreen Forests, the park is home to elephants, hoolock gibbons, golden cats, clouded leopard and other animals.

To date, 47 mammal species, 47 reptile species and 310 butterfly species have been recorded.

Assam's Environment and Forest Minister Parimal Suklabaidya on Saturday formally inaugurated the Dihing Patkai National Park. It is a red-letter day for Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts and the state as a whole that the Dihing Patkai has been created as the seventh National Park, the minister said at a function organised here to mark the occasion.

Assam's Environment and Forest Minister Parimal Suklabaidya on Saturday formally inaugurated the Dihing Patkai National Park. It is a red-letter day for Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts and the state as a whole that the Dihing Patkai has been created as the seventh National Park, the minister said at a function organised here to mark the occasion. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had declared Dihing Patkai as a National Park on June 5 - the World Environment Day- and the official process was completed with the publication of the notification on June 15. Two national parks, including Raimona National Park in the Bodoland Territorial Region, have come up within the first month of the second BJP government in the state. The rich floral and faunal diversity of the park, well known for its rainforest, will soon attain the stature of one of the best national parks in the country, the minister said. He called upon everyone to live in complete harmony with nature that 'provides us sustenance and keeps us alive'. The government would take necessary steps for infrastructure development of the park to attract tourists and open up vistas of opportunities for the unemployed youths, he added. Union Minister of State for Food Processing Industries, Rameswar Teli and legislators of Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts, and officials of both the district were present on the occasion. Earlier, the Forest Minister handed over the formal notification of the park to the people's representatives and the Director of conservation NGO, Nature's Beckon, Soumyadeep Datta. He also unveiled the plaque at the main entrance of the park. The Park which falls under the Jeypore range and Soraipung range of Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts cover an area of 234.26 sq km. Known all over for its rainforest, the last remaining stretches of Assam Valley Tropical Wet Evergreen Forests, the park is home to elephants, hoolock gibbons, golden cats, clouded leopard and other animals. To date, 47 mammal species, 47 reptile species and 310 butterfly species have been recorded.

Assam's Dihing Patkai formally inaugurated as National Park

According to a World Wildlife Fund (WWF)&nbsp;report, insect protein could replace 20 per cent of the UK's imports of soya by 2050.

It found that just under half of the demand for insect protein can be met by British producers. The study outlines a plan for the UK&nbsp;to speed up the uptake of insect protein in animal feed.

Soy&nbsp;is increasingly being used in animal feed, however, deforestation has also been linked to its use.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-mealworms-for-dinner-european-union-approves-first-insect-food-356581">Mealworms for dinner? European Union approves first insect food</a>

According to estimates, in 2019 alone, more than 1 million tonnes of soya consumed by livestock farmers in the UK may have contributed to deforestation.

Mollie Gupta, WWF's forest commodities manager says that among the findings was the first quantification of the benefits of insect protein in the UK. She adds that her team has been exploring insect protein as an alternative to soya for 18 months and that while&nbsp;it was always obvious that it had great potential, the fact that it can cut UK's soya imports by a fifth is unbelievable.

Taking advantage of this potential will require major hurdles to be overcome, particularly legislation. Animal feed regulations affect what animals can be fed, and then what they can be fed to. This double legislative burden is a significant one.

Protein extracted from insects is primarily used for pet food and aquafeed, where it competes with fishmeal, another unsustainable source of protein.

The report recommends that government allow the use of insect proteins in soya-based pig and poultry feed. In addition to increasing production, this will open up markets for insect protein.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kuwaiti-breeder-hopes-superworms-will-become-new-superfood-388562">Kuwaiti breeder hopes superworms will become new superfood</a>&nbsp;

Insects will be approved for use in pig and poultry feed by the EU this summer.

&nbsp;Also discussed in the report is the need for legislation to broaden the range of feedstocks that can be used when farming insects, such as products containing meat and fish as well as leftover food from manufacturing processes.

In addition, Gupta stressed that it was essential for governments to support insect production in a similar manner to what they do for other farming methods or industries, such as anaerobic digestion, which directly competes with plants and food waste for feedstock.&nbsp;

She predicted that this would bring the price of insect protein to the level of fishmeal in the short term and to soy meal in the long term.

Retailers could also contribute to the use of insect protein in animal feed by encouraging its use in their supply chains and educating consumers about its benefits, according to the report.&nbsp;

According to a World Wildlife Fund (WWF) report, insect protein could replace 20 per cent of the UK's imports of soya by 2050. It found that just under half of the demand for insect protein can be met by British producers.

According to a World Wildlife Fund (WWF) report, insect protein could replace 20 per cent of the UK's imports of soya by 2050. It found that just under half of the demand for insect protein can be met by British producers. The study outlines a plan for the UK to speed up the uptake of insect protein in animal feed. Soy is increasingly being used in animal feed, however, deforestation has also been linked to its use. Also read | Mealworms for dinner? European Union approves first insect food According to estimates, in 2019 alone, more than 1 million tonnes of soya consumed by livestock farmers in the UK may have contributed to deforestation. Mollie Gupta, WWF's forest commodities manager says that among the findings was the first quantification of the benefits of insect protein in the UK. She adds that her team has been exploring insect protein as an alternative to soya for 18 months and that while it was always obvious that it had great potential, the fact that it can cut UK's soya imports by a fifth is unbelievable. Taking advantage of this potential will require major hurdles to be overcome, particularly legislation. Animal feed regulations affect what animals can be fed, and then what they can be fed to. This double legislative burden is a significant one. Protein extracted from insects is primarily used for pet food and aquafeed, where it competes with fishmeal, another unsustainable source of protein. The report recommends that government allow the use of insect proteins in soya-based pig and poultry feed. In addition to increasing production, this will open up markets for insect protein. Also read | Kuwaiti breeder hopes superworms will become new superfood Insects will be approved for use in pig and poultry feed by the EU this summer. Also discussed in the report is the need for legislation to broaden the range of feedstocks that can be used when farming insects, such as products containing meat and fish as well as leftover food from manufacturing processes. In addition, Gupta stressed that it was essential for governments to support insect production in a similar manner to what they do for other farming methods or industries, such as anaerobic digestion, which directly competes with plants and food waste for feedstock. She predicted that this would bring the price of insect protein to the level of fishmeal in the short term and to soy meal in the long term. Retailers could also contribute to the use of insect protein in animal feed by encouraging its use in their supply chains and educating consumers about its benefits, according to the report.

Using bugs as animal feed can cut down deforestation: Report

Industry associations have requested the government for an extension of the July 6 deadline for sending in comments on draft rules for e-commerce players, according to sources.

In consultation between industry associations and the Department of Consumer Affairs, industry representatives sought extension beyond the July 6 deadline.

According to sources, some representatives were of the view that the proposed guidelines will not help consumers, and that lack of parity between online and offline sellers will hurt the interest of consumers and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-proposes-new-e-commerce-regulations-with-focus-on-data-rules-199214">India proposes new e-commerce regulations with focus on data rules</a>

Ban on fraudulent flash sales, mis-selling and appointment of chief compliance officer/grievance redressal officer are among key amendments proposed to the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020, on which the government has sought public comments by July 6.

Among other amendments, the government has proposed registration of every e-commerce entity which intends to operate in India with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).

The Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020 were first notified in July last year. Their violations attract penal action under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.

Industry associations have requested the government for an extension of the July 6 deadline for sending in comments on draft rules for e-commerce players, according to sources.

Industry associations have requested the government for an extension of the July 6 deadline for sending in comments on draft rules for e-commerce players, according to sources. In consultation between industry associations and the Department of Consumer Affairs, industry representatives sought extension beyond the July 6 deadline. According to sources, some representatives were of the view that the proposed guidelines will not help consumers, and that lack of parity between online and offline sellers will hurt the interest of consumers and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Also read | India proposes new e-commerce regulations with focus on data rules Ban on fraudulent flash sales, mis-selling and appointment of chief compliance officer/grievance redressal officer are among key amendments proposed to the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020, on which the government has sought public comments by July 6. Among other amendments, the government has proposed registration of every e-commerce entity which intends to operate in India with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020 were first notified in July last year. Their violations attract penal action under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.

Industry seeks deadline extension for comments on draft e-commerce rules

Massachusetts authorities closed down a major highway partly as a result of standoff between an armed group and the police on Saturday (July 2). It is a holiday weekend in the US and hence one of the busiest travel periods in the US

The incident began when police responded to what appeared to be two vehicles attempting to refuel on the side of the road.

WCVB reported that when a police officer arrived to offer assistance, he observed that the men were wearing tactical uniforms and were heavily armed. The officer then asked for identification which the men refused to provide.

Police also said the men refused to 'put down their weapons.'

At some point, during the exchange, at least eight of the men took off on foot in the nearby woods, prompting police to shutdown a stretch of the highway.

"No threats were made, but these men should be considered armed and dangerous. We are asking residents in these areas to lock their doors and remain inside their homes. A heavy police presence will be in this area as well," the Wakefield Police Department wrote in a statement.

Some local media have reported that the men are are affiliated with the group "Moorish American Arms."

"Our negotiators are in contact with the individuals and the self professed leader wants it very much known that their ideology is not anti-government," Massachusetts State Police Colonel Christopher Mason told reporters.

Mason did not confirm whether the men were affiliated with any specific group, adding that it was not unusual for police "to encounter people that have sovereign citizen ideologies" although he did was not aware that the men harbored such beliefs.

"We train our officers actually at the academy on these interactions and how to de-escalate those situations and how to engage with people that have that that philosophy and mindset and resolve those situations, you know, in a peaceful manner, which is what we're committed to doing," Mason said.

Two of the men were taken into custody, police said but offered no other details.

(With inputs fom agencies)

Massachusetts authorities closed down a major highway partly as a result of standoff between an armed group and the police on Saturday (July 2). It is a holiday weekend in the US and hence one of the busiest travel periods in the US The incident began when police responded to what appeared to be two vehicles attempting to refuel on the side of the road.

Massachusetts authorities closed down a major highway partly as a result of standoff between an armed group and the police on Saturday (July 2). It is a holiday weekend in the US and hence one of the busiest travel periods in the US The incident began when police responded to what appeared to be two vehicles attempting to refuel on the side of the road. WCVB reported that when a police officer arrived to offer assistance, he observed that the men were wearing tactical uniforms and were heavily armed. The officer then asked for identification which the men refused to provide. Police also said the men refused to 'put down their weapons.' At some point, during the exchange, at least eight of the men took off on foot in the nearby woods, prompting police to shutdown a stretch of the highway. "No threats were made, but these men should be considered armed and dangerous. We are asking residents in these areas to lock their doors and remain inside their homes. A heavy police presence will be in this area as well," the Wakefield Police Department wrote in a statement. Some local media have reported that the men are are affiliated with the group "Moorish American Arms." "Our negotiators are in contact with the individuals and the self professed leader wants it very much known that their ideology is not anti-government," Massachusetts State Police Colonel Christopher Mason told reporters. Mason did not confirm whether the men were affiliated with any specific group, adding that it was not unusual for police "to encounter people that have sovereign citizen ideologies" although he did was not aware that the men harbored such beliefs. "We train our officers actually at the academy on these interactions and how to de-escalate those situations and how to engage with people that have that that philosophy and mindset and resolve those situations, you know, in a peaceful manner, which is what we're committed to doing," Mason said. Two of the men were taken into custody, police said but offered no other details. (With inputs fom agencies)

Armed group in standoff with police in Massachusetts

The Indian Army has begun deploying women soldiers for conducting search operations in the Kashmir Valley. These women soldiers from Assam Rifles will be instrumental in maintaining peace in the valley.

These soldiers have been deployed in areas like Ganderbal district in central Kashmir. They have been also deployed at motor-vehicle checkpoints in order to facilitate frisking women and children.

The women soldiers are also helping in house-to-house searches during Cordon and Search Operation (CASO).

"Deployment of Riflewomen of Assam Rifles, is a reflection on the Security Forces, who always keep the sensitivities of the local population paramount &amp; this step, will definitely be of great help in mitigating any problems faced by the women in Kashmir, during operations," said Col Emron Musavi, PRO (Defence),&nbsp;Srinagar

The riflewomen can also help in bridging the gap between locals and army. And while the counterinsurgency operations are on, the female force can be of utmost importance.&nbsp;

<img alt="Jammu and Kashmir" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a0a34c74-f295-4ceb-863c-a056d2b77ae0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Image%20%287%29.jpeg" />

"I am deployed here with Assam Rifles and our main task here is (to ensure) whenever there is an anti-militant operation is going on, women should not face any issues. They are more comfortable with us. So we make sure they don't face issues. Whenever there is an operation we have an important role to play,'' said riflewoman Jyotsna.&nbsp;

The women soldiers are also breaking the stereotype for women and taking on bigger and more challenging responsibilities. They also are trying to inspire other women in the valley to Join the forces.&nbsp;

"We are also trying to inspire women here so that they can also join the forces," said riflewoman Jyotsna.&nbsp;

The same group of women from the Assam Rifles were earlier posted in Kupwara District of North Kashmir to keep an eye on drug trafficking. It became easier for these female soldiers to search the women suspects in the areas close to Line of control.The presence of these female soldiers has helped the security forces to keep a tab on &nbsp;the smuggling of drugs from across the LoC.&nbsp;

The Indian Army has begun deploying women soldiers for conducting search operations in the Kashmir Valley. These women soldiers from Assam Rifles will be instrumental in maintaining peace in the valley.

The Indian Army has begun deploying women soldiers for conducting search operations in the Kashmir Valley. These women soldiers from Assam Rifles will be instrumental in maintaining peace in the valley. These soldiers have been deployed in areas like Ganderbal district in central Kashmir. They have been also deployed at motor-vehicle checkpoints in order to facilitate frisking women and children. The women soldiers are also helping in house-to-house searches during Cordon and Search Operation (CASO). "Deployment of Riflewomen of Assam Rifles, is a reflection on the Security Forces, who always keep the sensitivities of the local population paramount & this step, will definitely be of great help in mitigating any problems faced by the women in Kashmir, during operations," said Col Emron Musavi, PRO (Defence), Srinagar The riflewomen can also help in bridging the gap between locals and army. And while the counterinsurgency operations are on, the female force can be of utmost importance. "I am deployed here with Assam Rifles and our main task here is (to ensure) whenever there is an anti-militant operation is going on, women should not face any issues. They are more comfortable with us. So we make sure they don't face issues. Whenever there is an operation we have an important role to play,'' said riflewoman Jyotsna. The women soldiers are also breaking the stereotype for women and taking on bigger and more challenging responsibilities. They also are trying to inspire other women in the valley to Join the forces. "We are also trying to inspire women here so that they can also join the forces," said riflewoman Jyotsna. The same group of women from the Assam Rifles were earlier posted in Kupwara District of North Kashmir to keep an eye on drug trafficking. It became easier for these female soldiers to search the women suspects in the areas close to Line of control.The presence of these female soldiers has helped the security forces to keep a tab on the smuggling of drugs from across the LoC.

Assam riflewomen to help in counterinsurgency operations in Kashmir

Sunday will mark the first time in more than a century that a ‘real’ Tyrannosaurus rex will take the stage in&nbsp;Nottingham, England.

As part of a new exhibition about the dinosaur's life and environment, the Wollaton Hall Natural History Museum will display the T-Rex's skeleton, discovered in Montana in 2018.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/discovered-footprints-of-the-very-last-dinosaurs-to-walk-on-uk-ground-392626">Discovered; Footprints of the very last Dinosaurs to walk on UK ground</a>

Named 'Titus: T-rex is King' this exhibition will trace the journey of the fossil from its discovery on the Montana Badlands to its excavation, curation, examination, rebuilding, and final display.

Rachel Evans, development manager at the&nbsp;Nottingham City&nbsp;Museums&nbsp;says that the experience of encountering an actual Tyrannosaurus rex is an experience that very few can claim. Though he is only a skeleton, Titus' powerful presence and power are undeniable, adding that Titus has been given the biggest room in Wollaton Hall all to himself.

Until now, the skeleton has never been exhibited to the public. It stands four metres (13ft) high and is eleven metres long.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/dinosaurs-were-already-extinct-before-meteor-strike-hit-earth-say-scientists-394971">Dinosaurs were already extinct before meteor strike hit Earth, say scientists</a>

Even though it is an actual fossil, many of its bones are reconstructions made of black obsidian, as once fully conserved the available bones made reconstruction possible of&nbsp;only about 20 per cent of the&nbsp;fossil.

An interesting fact; to date, it has never been possible to find a complete T-rex skeleton and most dinosaur&nbsp;skeletons displayed in museums are casts of real bones.

Arts Council England has funded the exhibition, with the aim to dispel some myths about this dinosaur, which roamed over 66m years ago.

Dr David Hone, a part of the team tasked with bringing Titus to life, notes that The incredibly well-preserved Titus dinosaur exhibits a wide array of pathologies that contribute to our knowledge of these iconic dinosaurs and the science of palaeontology.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/polar-dinosaurs-reproduced-in-arctic-over-70-million-years-ago-study-393928">'Polar dinosaurs' reproduced in Arctic over 70 million years ago: Study</a>

The palaeontologist and senior lecturer in zoology, adds that&nbsp;visitors to the exhibition can examine the specimen closely to a degree that allows them to make the much-debated decision whether he had scales or feathers.

A study published in April estimated that between 1.2m and 3.6m years ago, 2.5 billion Tyrannosaurus rex walked the Earth, although only about 100 T rex fossils have been found so far.

Sunday will mark the first time in more than a century that a ‘real’ Tyrannosaurus rex will take the stage in Nottingham, England. As part of a new exhibition about the dinosaur's life and environment, the Wollaton Hall Natural History Museum will display the T-Rex's skeleton, discovered in Montana in 2018.

Sunday will mark the first time in more than a century that a ‘real’ Tyrannosaurus rex will take the stage in Nottingham, England. As part of a new exhibition about the dinosaur's life and environment, the Wollaton Hall Natural History Museum will display the T-Rex's skeleton, discovered in Montana in 2018. Also read | Discovered; Footprints of the very last Dinosaurs to walk on UK ground Named 'Titus: T-rex is King' this exhibition will trace the journey of the fossil from its discovery on the Montana Badlands to its excavation, curation, examination, rebuilding, and final display. Rachel Evans, development manager at the Nottingham City Museums says that the experience of encountering an actual Tyrannosaurus rex is an experience that very few can claim. Though he is only a skeleton, Titus' powerful presence and power are undeniable, adding that Titus has been given the biggest room in Wollaton Hall all to himself. Until now, the skeleton has never been exhibited to the public. It stands four metres (13ft) high and is eleven metres long. Also read | Dinosaurs were already extinct before meteor strike hit Earth, say scientists Even though it is an actual fossil, many of its bones are reconstructions made of black obsidian, as once fully conserved the available bones made reconstruction possible of only about 20 per cent of the fossil. An interesting fact; to date, it has never been possible to find a complete T-rex skeleton and most dinosaur skeletons displayed in museums are casts of real bones. Arts Council England has funded the exhibition, with the aim to dispel some myths about this dinosaur, which roamed over 66m years ago. Dr David Hone, a part of the team tasked with bringing Titus to life, notes that The incredibly well-preserved Titus dinosaur exhibits a wide array of pathologies that contribute to our knowledge of these iconic dinosaurs and the science of palaeontology. Also read | 'Polar dinosaurs' reproduced in Arctic over 70 million years ago: Study The palaeontologist and senior lecturer in zoology, adds that visitors to the exhibition can examine the specimen closely to a degree that allows them to make the much-debated decision whether he had scales or feathers. A study published in April estimated that between 1.2m and 3.6m years ago, 2.5 billion Tyrannosaurus rex walked the Earth, although only about 100 T rex fossils have been found so far.

Titus the T-Rex goes on display in England

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a> on Friday endorsed removing the investigation and prosecution of sexual assault cases in the armed forces from the military chain of command.

The recommendation was one of the chief proposals made by an independent commission set up by Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin to look into the handling of sexual assault in the military.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-second-consecutive-year-sexual-assault-cases-increase-in-us-military-296096">For second consecutive year, sexual assault cases increase in US military</a>

Austin said he would work with Congress to amend military justice laws and remove the prosecution of cases of sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse from the military chain of command.

Dedicated offices in each military department would be created to handle the prosecution of such cases, the defence secretary said.

Currently, commanders are responsible for the investigation and prosecution of crimes allegedly committed by their subordinates, a system critics say often presents conflicts of interest and other issues.

The proposed changes were an "overdue step in the right direction", Biden said.

"We need concrete actions that fundamentally change the way we handle military sexual assault and that make it clear that these crimes will not be minimized or dismissed," he said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defence-chief-favours-reforms-on-how-military-prosecutes-sex-crimes-393251">US defence chief favours reforms on how military prosecutes sex crimes</a>

"I look forward to working with Congress to implement these necessary reforms and promote a work environment that is free from sexual assault and harassment for every one of our brave service members."

More than a dozen commanders and unit leaders were sacked in December after a series of murders and sex crimes at a major US military base.

Among the victims was Vanessa Guillen, a 20-year-old army soldier who was murdered by a fellow soldier after being sexually harassed and telling her family she did not trust the military command to follow up on her complaint.

According to the Defense Department's Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office, there were 7,816 sexual assault complaints in the armed forces in 2020, a slight fall from the record 7,825 of 2019.

US President Joe Biden on Friday endorsed removing the investigation and prosecution of sexual assault cases in the armed forces from the military chain of command.

US President Joe Biden on Friday endorsed removing the investigation and prosecution of sexual assault cases in the armed forces from the military chain of command. The recommendation was one of the chief proposals made by an independent commission set up by Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin to look into the handling of sexual assault in the military. Also read | For second consecutive year, sexual assault cases increase in US military Austin said he would work with Congress to amend military justice laws and remove the prosecution of cases of sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse from the military chain of command. Dedicated offices in each military department would be created to handle the prosecution of such cases, the defence secretary said. Currently, commanders are responsible for the investigation and prosecution of crimes allegedly committed by their subordinates, a system critics say often presents conflicts of interest and other issues. The proposed changes were an "overdue step in the right direction", Biden said. "We need concrete actions that fundamentally change the way we handle military sexual assault and that make it clear that these crimes will not be minimized or dismissed," he said in a statement. Also read | US defence chief favours reforms on how military prosecutes sex crimes "I look forward to working with Congress to implement these necessary reforms and promote a work environment that is free from sexual assault and harassment for every one of our brave service members." More than a dozen commanders and unit leaders were sacked in December after a series of murders and sex crimes at a major US military base. Among the victims was Vanessa Guillen, a 20-year-old army soldier who was murdered by a fellow soldier after being sexually harassed and telling her family she did not trust the military command to follow up on her complaint. According to the Defense Department's Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office, there were 7,816 sexual assault complaints in the armed forces in 2020, a slight fall from the record 7,825 of 2019.

Biden backs removing assault prosecution from US military chain of command

Saudi Arabia has suspended flights to three countries, including the neighbouring United Arab Emirates, to protect against a coronavirus variant, the interior ministry said Saturday.

The move comes seven weeks after the oil-rich kingdom permitted fully immunised citizens to travel abroad, after a ban on foreign trips that lasted more than a year.

The UAE, and especially Dubai, is a key leisure destination for Saudis.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-saudi-arabia-to-ease-curfew-on-june-21-except-mecca-301069">Coronavirus: Saudi Arabia to ease curfew on June 21, except Mecca</a>

Flights to and from the UAE, alongside those to Ethiopia and Vietnam, will be suspended from Sunday, an interior ministry official said, quoted by the state news agency SPA.&nbsp;

Saudi citizens and residents returning from these countries will be required to quarantine for 14 days, it added.

Citizens would be banned "from travelling directly or indirectly, without obtaining prior permission from... authorities".

The decision was taken due to "the spread of a new mutated strain of the (COVID-19) virus", it added, without explicitly mentioning the increasingly globally emergent Delta variant.

The variant, first detected in India and now present in at least 85 countries, is the most contagious of any <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> variant yet identified.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-update-rise-in-hospitalisation-amid-delta-variant-spread-394918/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The UAE announced last week it had recorded cases of the Delta variant and it has suspended flights to and from India.

Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, has put major limits on the annual hajj pilgrimage. It has officially recorded more than 490,000 cases of coronavirus, including nearly 7,850 deaths.

The oil-rich Gulf state is home to a large expat workforce from Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

Saudi Arabia has suspended flights to three countries, including the neighbouring United Arab Emirates, to protect against a coronavirus variant, the interior ministry said Saturday.

Saudi Arabia has suspended flights to three countries, including the neighbouring United Arab Emirates, to protect against a coronavirus variant, the interior ministry said Saturday. The move comes seven weeks after the oil-rich kingdom permitted fully immunised citizens to travel abroad, after a ban on foreign trips that lasted more than a year. The UAE, and especially Dubai, is a key leisure destination for Saudis. Also read | Coronavirus: Saudi Arabia to ease curfew on June 21, except Mecca Flights to and from the UAE, alongside those to Ethiopia and Vietnam, will be suspended from Sunday, an interior ministry official said, quoted by the state news agency SPA. Saudi citizens and residents returning from these countries will be required to quarantine for 14 days, it added. Citizens would be banned "from travelling directly or indirectly, without obtaining prior permission from... authorities". The decision was taken due to "the spread of a new mutated strain of the (COVID-19) virus", it added, without explicitly mentioning the increasingly globally emergent Delta variant. The variant, first detected in India and now present in at least 85 countries, is the most contagious of any COVID-19 variant yet identified. The UAE announced last week it had recorded cases of the Delta variant and it has suspended flights to and from India. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, has put major limits on the annual hajj pilgrimage. It has officially recorded more than 490,000 cases of coronavirus, including nearly 7,850 deaths. The oil-rich Gulf state is home to a large expat workforce from Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

Saudi suspends UAE flights due to virus variant

France announced Friday that it will resume joint military operations in Mali, after suspending them early last month following the West African country's second coup in less than a year.

Following consultations with the Malian transitional authorities and the countries of the region France has "decided to resume joint military operations as well as national advisory missions, which had been suspended since June 3", the armed forces minister said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-freezes-military-ties-with-central-african-republic-390252">France freezes military ties with Central African Republic</a>

Last month's decision to suspend the joint operations came after Mali's military strongman Assimi Goita, who led last year's coup, ousted the country's civilian transitional president and prime minister.

That move sparked diplomatic uproar, prompting the United States to suspend security assistance for Malian security forces and for the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to suspend Mali.

Both Mali and France play key roles in the fight against a bloody jihadist insurgency plaguing the Sahel region.

France has around 5,100 troops in the Sahel under its Barkhane operation which spans five countries -- Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-seeks-exit-strategy-from-mali-after-eight-year-campaign-354843">France seeks exit strategy from Mali after eight-year campaign</a>

On June 10, French President Emmanuel Macron announced a major drawdown of France's military presence in the Sahel where forces have been battling jihadist insurgents for nearly a decade.

Macron said the existing Barkhane operation would end, with France's presence becoming part of the so-called Takuba international task force in which "hundreds" of French soldiers would form the backbone.

That Takuba force currently numbers about 600 troops, half of whom are French.&nbsp;

The Czech Republic, Estonia, Italy, Romania and Sweden have also pledged to participate.

"France remains fully engaged, with its European and American allies, alongside the Sahel countries and international missions" to fight the jihadist groups which are rife in the Sahel, the armed forces ministry said in its statement on Friday.

France announced Friday that it will resume joint military operations in Mali, after suspending them early last month following the West African country's second coup in less than a year.

France announced Friday that it will resume joint military operations in Mali, after suspending them early last month following the West African country's second coup in less than a year. Following consultations with the Malian transitional authorities and the countries of the region France has "decided to resume joint military operations as well as national advisory missions, which had been suspended since June 3", the armed forces minister said in a statement. Also read | France freezes military ties with Central African Republic Last month's decision to suspend the joint operations came after Mali's military strongman Assimi Goita, who led last year's coup, ousted the country's civilian transitional president and prime minister. That move sparked diplomatic uproar, prompting the United States to suspend security assistance for Malian security forces and for the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to suspend Mali. Both Mali and France play key roles in the fight against a bloody jihadist insurgency plaguing the Sahel region. France has around 5,100 troops in the Sahel under its Barkhane operation which spans five countries -- Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger. Also read | France seeks exit strategy from Mali after eight-year campaign On June 10, French President Emmanuel Macron announced a major drawdown of France's military presence in the Sahel where forces have been battling jihadist insurgents for nearly a decade. Macron said the existing Barkhane operation would end, with France's presence becoming part of the so-called Takuba international task force in which "hundreds" of French soldiers would form the backbone. That Takuba force currently numbers about 600 troops, half of whom are French. The Czech Republic, Estonia, Italy, Romania and Sweden have also pledged to participate. "France remains fully engaged, with its European and American allies, alongside the Sahel countries and international missions" to fight the jihadist groups which are rife in the Sahel, the armed forces ministry said in its statement on Friday.

France resumes joint military operations with Mali

Officials said that hundreds of Taliban fighters were killed in fighting across several provinces of Afghanistan. This came amid announcement from the US that troop withdrawal would complete by the end of August.

The announcement came after US and NATO troops vacated their main Bagram Air Base. The airbase was from where the coalition forces led operations for two decades against Taliban and Al Quaeda.

In last 24 hours, more than 300 Taliban fighters were killed in fighting with government forces, said the Ministry of Defence on Saturday.

Scores were killed in airstrikes, including a pre-dawn assault on Saturday, in the southern province of Helmand, where the insurgents and government troops have regularly clashed.

There are fears that Afghan forces would find it hard to fight against the Taliban without the air support the US has been providing.

"In recent days, the Afghan air force has intensified its airstrikes against the Taliban hideouts and the insurgents have suffered casualties," Attaullah Afghan, a member of Helmand provincial council, told AFP.

The Taliban rejected the government's claims.

Both sides often exaggerate each other's casualties and their claims are difficult to independently verify.

But since May 1 when the US military began its final withdrawal of about 2,500 troops, the two warring sides have clashed fiercely across the rugged countryside as peace talks between them have faltered.

As a result, the Taliban have seized dozens of districts in blistering assaults targeting government forces.&nbsp;

The insurgents have encircled almost all major cities across the country, and on Saturday claimed seizing seven more districts in the northeastern province of Badakhshan.

Top US envoy to Kabul, Ross Wilson, lashed out at the insurgents.

"The Taliban is using violent propaganda and hate speech to intimidate, threaten &amp; attack Afghans on social media," Wilson said on Twitter on Saturday.

"Violence and terror cannot create peace."&nbsp;

The Pentagon pressed on with its withdrawal to end America's longest war.

On Friday, all US and NATO troops left Bagram Air Base, signalling that the military involvement for coalition forces was finally nearing its end.

(With inputs from agencies)

Officials said that hundreds of Taliban fighters were killed in fighting across several provinces of Afghanistan. This came amid announcement from the US that troop withdrawal would complete by the end of August.

Officials said that hundreds of Taliban fighters were killed in fighting across several provinces of Afghanistan. This came amid announcement from the US that troop withdrawal would complete by the end of August. The announcement came after US and NATO troops vacated their main Bagram Air Base. The airbase was from where the coalition forces led operations for two decades against Taliban and Al Quaeda. In last 24 hours, more than 300 Taliban fighters were killed in fighting with government forces, said the Ministry of Defence on Saturday. Scores were killed in airstrikes, including a pre-dawn assault on Saturday, in the southern province of Helmand, where the insurgents and government troops have regularly clashed. There are fears that Afghan forces would find it hard to fight against the Taliban without the air support the US has been providing. "In recent days, the Afghan air force has intensified its airstrikes against the Taliban hideouts and the insurgents have suffered casualties," Attaullah Afghan, a member of Helmand provincial council, told AFP. The Taliban rejected the government's claims. Both sides often exaggerate each other's casualties and their claims are difficult to independently verify. But since May 1 when the US military began its final withdrawal of about 2,500 troops, the two warring sides have clashed fiercely across the rugged countryside as peace talks between them have faltered. As a result, the Taliban have seized dozens of districts in blistering assaults targeting government forces. The insurgents have encircled almost all major cities across the country, and on Saturday claimed seizing seven more districts in the northeastern province of Badakhshan. Top US envoy to Kabul, Ross Wilson, lashed out at the insurgents. "The Taliban is using violent propaganda and hate speech to intimidate, threaten & attack Afghans on social media," Wilson said on Twitter on Saturday. "Violence and terror cannot create peace." The Pentagon pressed on with its withdrawal to end America's longest war. On Friday, all US and NATO troops left Bagram Air Base, signalling that the military involvement for coalition forces was finally nearing its end. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: Fighting rages as US forces seek exit by end August

German Health Minister Jens Spahn told reporters on Friday that it would be possible in future to mix vaccine doses. This means that, in Spahn's opinion, it would be possible to combine first shot of AstraZeneca vaccine with second shot of mRNA vaccine like those from Pfizer or Moderna.

Spahn said that addition of mRNA shot offered more protection against Delta variant of coronavirus. Delta variant is considered to be more infection.

Germany has enough shots available of all vaccines to be able to do this, as well as to provide booster shots to those who wanted them in the autumn, he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

German Health Minister Jens Spahn told reporters on Friday that it would be possible in future to mix vaccine doses. This means that, in Spahn's opinion, it would be possible to combine first shot of AstraZeneca vaccine with second shot of mRNA vaccine like those from Pfizer or Moderna.

German Health Minister Jens Spahn told reporters on Friday that it would be possible in future to mix vaccine doses. This means that, in Spahn's opinion, it would be possible to combine first shot of AstraZeneca vaccine with second shot of mRNA vaccine like those from Pfizer or Moderna. Spahn said that addition of mRNA shot offered more protection against Delta variant of coronavirus. Delta variant is considered to be more infection. Germany has enough shots available of all vaccines to be able to do this, as well as to provide booster shots to those who wanted them in the autumn, he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Possible in future to mix vaccine doses, says German health minister 

The US on Friday announced fresh sanctions on 22 persons including four Myanmar government ministers. The Treasury and Commerce Department, in a two-pronged action, announced the sanctions &nbsp;as part of Washington's continued response to the overthrow of Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government

Aung San Suu Kyi's government was toppled by Myanmar military junta in a coup on February 1. The country has been rocked by pro-democracy protests. Military junta has received international condemnation for the disproportionate use of force against the demonstrators.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement that the new sanctions were levied "in response to the brutal campaign of violence perpetrated by the Burmese military regime and to continue imposing costs in connection with the military coup."

The sanctions do not target the Myanmar people, but are aimed at pressuring the military to "immediately restore Burma's path to democracy," Blinken said.

Myanmar's minister of information Chit Naing, minister for investment Aung Naing Oo, &nbsp;labor and immigration minister Myint Kyaing, and Thet Thet Khine, the minister for social welfare, relief and resettlement are the ministers the US led sanctions have targetted.

Three members of the powerful State Administrative Council were also hit with sanctions, as were 15 spouses and adult children of officials, in an expansion of US punishments imposed in February, March and May following the coup.

Under the sanctions, all US property in the name of the individuals are blocked, and Americans or people in the United States are prohibited from conducting property or interest transactions with them.

Andrea Gacki, director of Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control, said in a statement the action demonstrates Washington "will continue to impose increasing costs on Burma's military and promote accountability for those responsible for the military coup and ongoing violence."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The US on Friday announced fresh sanctions on 22 persons including four Myanmar government ministers. The Treasury and Commerce Department, in a two-pronged action, announced the sanctions as part of Washington's continued response to the overthrow of Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government Aung San Suu Kyi's government was toppled by Myanmar military junta in a coup on February 1.

The US on Friday announced fresh sanctions on 22 persons including four Myanmar government ministers. The Treasury and Commerce Department, in a two-pronged action, announced the sanctions as part of Washington's continued response to the overthrow of Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government Aung San Suu Kyi's government was toppled by Myanmar military junta in a coup on February 1. The country has been rocked by pro-democracy protests. Military junta has received international condemnation for the disproportionate use of force against the demonstrators. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement that the new sanctions were levied "in response to the brutal campaign of violence perpetrated by the Burmese military regime and to continue imposing costs in connection with the military coup." The sanctions do not target the Myanmar people, but are aimed at pressuring the military to "immediately restore Burma's path to democracy," Blinken said. Myanmar's minister of information Chit Naing, minister for investment Aung Naing Oo, labor and immigration minister Myint Kyaing, and Thet Thet Khine, the minister for social welfare, relief and resettlement are the ministers the US led sanctions have targetted. Three members of the powerful State Administrative Council were also hit with sanctions, as were 15 spouses and adult children of officials, in an expansion of US punishments imposed in February, March and May following the coup. Under the sanctions, all US property in the name of the individuals are blocked, and Americans or people in the United States are prohibited from conducting property or interest transactions with them. Andrea Gacki, director of Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control, said in a statement the action demonstrates Washington "will continue to impose increasing costs on Burma's military and promote accountability for those responsible for the military coup and ongoing violence." (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar coup: US imposes fresh sanctions on 22 persons

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Manas Joshi

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.