<p>The United States presidential elections come at a time when foreign leaders are appealing for American leadership and support amid the ongoing West Asia crisis and the Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and Republican nominee Donald Trump are locked in a tight race, the November 5 elections will decide who gets to be the next US President.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US has been at the forefront in dealing with complex challenges of the world and playing a key role in securing peace.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-how-a-second-trump-presidency-could-reshape-abortion-access-in-the-us-772157"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;US elections: How a second Trump presidency could reshape abortion access in the US</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>US-India relationship&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>One of the key focus areas for the US has been strengthening its relationship with India. The partnership between both countries is essential in addressing common foreign policy challenges, including defence collaboration, counter-terrorism and maritime security.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former US Ambassador to India, Tim Roehme, told CNBC-TV18, "There are many, many things to celebrate in terms of the United States-India relationship. I think the election is going to have a profound effect on the US foreign policy. Mr Trump, Vice President Harris, bring very, very different perspectives to the policies, whether they be the Middle East, the Ukraine war, China tariffs, or even US-India policies."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;US Elections 2024: What Are Swing States, Why Are They Important?</strong></p>

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<p><strong>China and Economic Strategy</strong></p>

<p>America's relationship with China remains critical, as both Trump and Harris share&nbsp;similar views on the need to stabilise the relationship.</p>

<p>However, both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump have campaigned with a hard stance against Chinese competition.</p>

<p>According to a Chinese media, China Briefing, the two candidates share similar visions regarding their policies in China. Both of them share a resolute stance on addressing trade imbalances and national security concerns, underscoring the bipartisan consensus on adopting a hardline approach to engagement with China.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States presidential elections come at a time when foreign leaders are appealing for American leadership and support amid the ongoing West Asia crisis and the Russia-Ukraine war.

The United States presidential elections come at a time when foreign leaders are appealing for American leadership and support amid the ongoing West Asia crisis and the Russia-Ukraine war. As Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and Republican nominee Donald Trump are locked in a tight race, the November 5 elections will decide who gets to be the next US President. US has been at the forefront in dealing with complex challenges of the world and playing a key role in securing peace. Also read: US elections: How a second Trump presidency could reshape abortion access in the US US-India relationship One of the key focus areas for the US has been strengthening its relationship with India. The partnership between both countries is essential in addressing common foreign policy challenges, including defence collaboration, counter-terrorism and maritime security. Former US Ambassador to India, Tim Roehme, told CNBC-TV18, "There are many, many things to celebrate in terms of the United States-India relationship. I think the election is going to have a profound effect on the US foreign policy. Mr Trump, Vice President Harris, bring very, very different perspectives to the policies, whether they be the Middle East, the Ukraine war, China tariffs, or even US-India policies." Watch | US Elections 2024: What Are Swing States, Why Are They Important? × China and Economic Strategy America's relationship with China remains critical, as both Trump and Harris share similar views on the need to stabilise the relationship. However, both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump have campaigned with a hard stance against Chinese competition. According to a Chinese media, China Briefing, the two candidates share similar visions regarding their policies in China. Both of them share a resolute stance on addressing trade imbalances and national security concerns, underscoring the bipartisan consensus on adopting a hardline approach to engagement with China. (With inputs from agencies)

US Presidential Election 2024: How it will impact foreign policy?

<p>Three people died and 11 got injured in two firecracker-related accidents in Andhra Pradesh on Thursday (Oct 31).&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes amid the government asking people to not burn firecrackers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the police, the accident happened when a man carrying "onion bombs" (a special Diwali firecracker) in a bag on his vehicle hit a pothole near Ganganamma temple, causing the bag with "onion bombs" to fall.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The firecrackers exploded on the spot, killing the rider. The rider has been identified as Sudhakar.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/not-doing-a-favour-to-anyone-former-delhi-cm-kejriwal-urges-people-to-not-burst-crackers-ahead-of-diwali-772046"><strong>Also read: 'Not doing a favour to anyone': Former Delhi CM Kejriwal urges people to not burst crackers on Diwali&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>According to reports, the shipment of Diwali 'bombs' had the same explosive power as an IED, or improvised explosive device.</p>

<p>The police said that his body "blew into pieces," while other injured were taken to Eluru government hospital.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Diwali crackers exploded in Eluru of AP when the bike hits a pothole - be careful guys <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/dwiali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#dwiali</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/deepavali?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#deepavali</a> <a href="https://t.co/oOHv2YQnid">pic.twitter.com/oOHv2YQnid</a></p>
— Lokesh journo (@Lokeshpaila) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lokeshpaila/status/1851923839317418210?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Police have also registered a case and launched an investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is reportedly the second firecracker-related tragedy in 24 hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Ayodhya: Birthplace Of Lord Ram Dazzles In Diwali Lights</strong></p>

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<p>On Wednesday evening, two women were burnt alive, and five others were critically injured in a fire at a fireworks manufacturing unit in West Godavari district.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal asked people to refrain from busting firecrackers and light diyas on Diwali, noting that Diwali is a festival of lights and not firecrackers.</p>

<p>Speaking at a press conference, Kejriwal said, "Even the Supreme Court and High Court say that in view of the pollution, we should not burst crackers; we should light diyas. This is the festival of lights and not fireworks. It is not as if we are doing a favour to anybody. Whatever pollution will happen, our children will suffer from it, so there is no Hindu-Muslim in this. Everyone's life is important."</p>

<p>This comes as the national capital has been witnessing a rise in air pollution. &nbsp;Delhi's air quality has deteriorated over the last several days, prompting the Delhi government to take measures to control air pollution.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Three people died and 11 got injured in two firecracker-related accidents in Andhra Pradesh on Thursday (Oct 31). This comes amid the government asking people to not burn firecrackers.

Three people died and 11 got injured in two firecracker-related accidents in Andhra Pradesh on Thursday (Oct 31). This comes amid the government asking people to not burn firecrackers. According to the police, the accident happened when a man carrying "onion bombs" (a special Diwali firecracker) in a bag on his vehicle hit a pothole near Ganganamma temple, causing the bag with "onion bombs" to fall. The firecrackers exploded on the spot, killing the rider. The rider has been identified as Sudhakar. Also read: 'Not doing a favour to anyone': Former Delhi CM Kejriwal urges people to not burst crackers on Diwali According to reports, the shipment of Diwali 'bombs' had the same explosive power as an IED, or improvised explosive device. The police said that his body "blew into pieces," while other injured were taken to Eluru government hospital. Diwali crackers exploded in Eluru of AP when the bike hits a pothole - be careful guys #dwiali #deepavali pic.twitter.com/oOHv2YQnid — Lokesh journo (@Lokeshpaila) October 31, 2024 × Police have also registered a case and launched an investigation. This is reportedly the second firecracker-related tragedy in 24 hours. Watch | Ayodhya: Birthplace Of Lord Ram Dazzles In Diwali Lights × On Wednesday evening, two women were burnt alive, and five others were critically injured in a fire at a fireworks manufacturing unit in West Godavari district. On Wednesday, former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal asked people to refrain from busting firecrackers and light diyas on Diwali, noting that Diwali is a festival of lights and not firecrackers. Speaking at a press conference, Kejriwal said, "Even the Supreme Court and High Court say that in view of the pollution, we should not burst crackers; we should light diyas. This is the festival of lights and not fireworks. It is not as if we are doing a favour to anybody. Whatever pollution will happen, our children will suffer from it, so there is no Hindu-Muslim in this. Everyone's life is important." This comes as the national capital has been witnessing a rise in air pollution. Delhi's air quality has deteriorated over the last several days, prompting the Delhi government to take measures to control air pollution. (With inputs from agencies)

Diwali 'onion bomb' tragedy; 3 dead in firecracker explosion in Andhra Pradesh

<p>North Korea said it tested an intercontinental ballistic missile on Thursday, upgrading what it called the "world's most powerful strategic weapon", as Seoul warned Pyongyang could get missile technology from Russia for help with the war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said the test was a warning to enemies that have been threatening the country's security, KCNA state news agency said.</p>

<p>"The test-fire is an appropriate military action that fully meets the purpose of informing the rivals, who have intentionally escalated the regional situation and posed a threat to the security of our Republic recently, of our counteraction will," Kim was quoted as saying by KCNA.</p>

<p>The muscle-flexing comes amid an international outcry and rising alarm over what the US&nbsp;and others say is North Korea's deployment of 11,000 troops to Russia - 3,000 of them close to the western frontlines with Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-questions-why-west-can-support-kyiv-but-north-korea-cant-back-moscow-772177"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia questions why West can support Kyiv but North Korea can’t back Moscow</strong></a></p>

<p>The launch drew swift condemnation from South Korea, Japan, and the United States.</p>

<p>A day earlier, Seoul cited military intelligence suggesting the North may test-launch an ICBM or conduct a seventh nuclear test around the U.S. presidential election on Tuesday, seeking to draw attention to its growing military prowess.</p>

<p>Shin Seung-ki, head of research on North Korea's military at the state-run Korea Institute for Defense Analyses, said the launch was likely to test improved booster performance of an existing ICBM - possibly with Russia's help.</p>

<p>"North Korea will want to keep getting help like this because it saves times and costs while improving performance and upgrading the stability of weapons system," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: North Korean Troops Will Return In Body Bags: US Envoy</strong></p>

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<p>It could also be Pyongyang's response to pressure over its engagement with Russia, Shin said.</p>

<p>"The intention may be to show that it will not bow to pressure, that it will respond to strength with strength, and also to seek some influence on the US presidential election."</p>

<h2><strong>New records</strong></h2>

<p>The launch early on Thursday was the longest ballistic missile test by the North with a flight-time of 87 minutes, according to South Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>KCNA said the test set new records for its missile capabilities.</p>

<p>The missile took off on a sharply lofted trajectory from an area near the North's capital and splashed down about 200 km (125 miles) west of Japan's Okushiri island, off Hokkaido.</p>

<p>It reached an altitude of 7,000 km (4,350 miles)and flew a distance of 1,000 km, the Japanese government said.</p>

<p>The so-called lofted trajectory of a projectile flying at a sharply raised angle is intended to test its thrust and stability over much shorter distances relative to the designed range, partly for safety and to avoid the political fallout of sending a missile far into the Pacific.</p>

<p>North Korea's last ICBM, dubbed the Hwasong-18, was tested in December 2023. Fuelled by solid-propellant and fired from a road launcher, it was also launched at a sharply raised angle and flew for 73 minutes, translating to a potential range of 15,000 km on a normal trajectory.</p>

<p>That is a distance that puts anywhere in the mainland United States within range.</p>

<p>South Korea announced on Thursday new export controls on materials needed by North Korea to produce solid-fuel missiles.</p>

<p>Asked about the missile launch, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said China "has always believed that peace and stability, and promoting a political solution to the peninsula issue is in accordance with the common interests of all sides."</p>

<p>Pyongyang's latest test came just hours after U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and his South Korean counterpart Kim Yong-Hyun met in Washington to condemn the North Korean troop deployment in Russia.</p>

<p>Neither Moscow nor Pyongyang has directly acknowledged the deployment, but Russia's U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia on Wednesday questioned why its allies like North Korea could not help Moscow in its war against Ukraine when Western countries claim the right to help Kyiv.</p>

<p>South Korea said the deployment directly threatened its security because the North would gain valuable combat experience in modern warfare and was likely to be rewarded by Moscow with "technology transfers" in areas such as tactical nuclear weapons, ICBMs, ballistic missile submarines, and military reconnaissance satellites.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


North Korea said it tested an intercontinental ballistic missile on Thursday, upgrading what it called the "world's most powerful strategic weapon", as Seoul warned Pyongyang could get missile technology from Russia for help with the war in Ukraine.

North Korea said it tested an intercontinental ballistic missile on Thursday, upgrading what it called the "world's most powerful strategic weapon", as Seoul warned Pyongyang could get missile technology from Russia for help with the war in Ukraine. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said the test was a warning to enemies that have been threatening the country's security, KCNA state news agency said. "The test-fire is an appropriate military action that fully meets the purpose of informing the rivals, who have intentionally escalated the regional situation and posed a threat to the security of our Republic recently, of our counteraction will," Kim was quoted as saying by KCNA. The muscle-flexing comes amid an international outcry and rising alarm over what the US and others say is North Korea's deployment of 11,000 troops to Russia - 3,000 of them close to the western frontlines with Ukraine. Also read: Russia questions why West can support Kyiv but North Korea can’t back Moscow The launch drew swift condemnation from South Korea, Japan, and the United States. A day earlier, Seoul cited military intelligence suggesting the North may test-launch an ICBM or conduct a seventh nuclear test around the U.S. presidential election on Tuesday, seeking to draw attention to its growing military prowess. Shin Seung-ki, head of research on North Korea's military at the state-run Korea Institute for Defense Analyses, said the launch was likely to test improved booster performance of an existing ICBM - possibly with Russia's help. "North Korea will want to keep getting help like this because it saves times and costs while improving performance and upgrading the stability of weapons system," he said. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: North Korean Troops Will Return In Body Bags: US Envoy × It could also be Pyongyang's response to pressure over its engagement with Russia, Shin said. "The intention may be to show that it will not bow to pressure, that it will respond to strength with strength, and also to seek some influence on the US presidential election." New records The launch early on Thursday was the longest ballistic missile test by the North with a flight-time of 87 minutes, according to South Korea. KCNA said the test set new records for its missile capabilities. The missile took off on a sharply lofted trajectory from an area near the North's capital and splashed down about 200 km (125 miles) west of Japan's Okushiri island, off Hokkaido. It reached an altitude of 7,000 km (4,350 miles)and flew a distance of 1,000 km, the Japanese government said. The so-called lofted trajectory of a projectile flying at a sharply raised angle is intended to test its thrust and stability over much shorter distances relative to the designed range, partly for safety and to avoid the political fallout of sending a missile far into the Pacific. North Korea's last ICBM, dubbed the Hwasong-18, was tested in December 2023. Fuelled by solid-propellant and fired from a road launcher, it was also launched at a sharply raised angle and flew for 73 minutes, translating to a potential range of 15,000 km on a normal trajectory. That is a distance that puts anywhere in the mainland United States within range. South Korea announced on Thursday new export controls on materials needed by North Korea to produce solid-fuel missiles. Asked about the missile launch, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said China "has always believed that peace and stability, and promoting a political solution to the peninsula issue is in accordance with the common interests of all sides." Pyongyang's latest test came just hours after U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and his South Korean counterpart Kim Yong-Hyun met in Washington to condemn the North Korean troop deployment in Russia. Neither Moscow nor Pyongyang has directly acknowledged the deployment, but Russia's U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia on Wednesday questioned why its allies like North Korea could not help Moscow in its war against Ukraine when Western countries claim the right to help Kyiv. South Korea said the deployment directly threatened its security because the North would gain valuable combat experience in modern warfare and was likely to be rewarded by Moscow with "technology transfers" in areas such as tactical nuclear weapons, ICBMs, ballistic missile submarines, and military reconnaissance satellites. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

North Korea launches new intercontinental ballistic missile days ahead of US election

<p>As US elections are just around the corner, the tight race between Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris and Republican nominee Donald Trump is getting even more intense.</p>

<p>As far as global politics is&nbsp;concerned, whoever wins between Trump and Harris&nbsp;is going to bring some differences in world dynamics.</p>

<h2><strong>Impact on NATO&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>If Trump gets elected, NATO cannot expect much support from the US government then, as the Democratic nominee has made it clear&nbsp;that he will not support those countries that spend less than 2 per cent of their GDP on defence.</p>

<p>However, if Kamala Harris wins, NATO gets full support from the US but not so easily if the senate and the congress – house of representatives – both fall into the hands of the Republicans.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2024-who-is-ex-wife-of-kamala-harris-husband-dough-emhoff-all-about-772018"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;&nbsp;US election 2024: Who is ex-wife of Kamala Harris' husband Dough Emhoff? All about....</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>West Asia crisis</strong></h2>

<p>The Democratic candidate has been repeatedly affirming Biden's support for Israel's “right to defend itself.” However, she has also stressed that "the killing of innocent Palestinians has to stop."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Trump has also emphasised that it's time to get back to peace and stop killing people. He has also reportedly told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to “do what you have to do", which clearly gives Netanyahu a free hand to pursue what he wants.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;US Elections 2024: What Are Swing States, Why Are They Important?</strong></p>

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<p><strong>Impact on Russia-Ukraine war&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>On the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Trump has never stepped back on reiterating his admiration for strongmen like Russian President Vladimir Putin. He has made it clear that he wants the war to end, assuring support from the US government in terms of military and finances. “I’ll get out. We got to get out,” he said in a recent rally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Democratic nominee Harris has clearly said that she is proud to stand with Ukraine. "I will continue to stand with Ukraine. And I will work to ensure Ukraine prevails in this war," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As US elections are just around the corner, the tight race between Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris and Republican nominee Donald Trump is getting even more intense.

As US elections are just around the corner, the tight race between Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris and Republican nominee Donald Trump is getting even more intense. As far as global politics is concerned, whoever wins between Trump and Harris is going to bring some differences in world dynamics. Impact on NATO If Trump gets elected, NATO cannot expect much support from the US government then, as the Democratic nominee has made it clear that he will not support those countries that spend less than 2 per cent of their GDP on defence. However, if Kamala Harris wins, NATO gets full support from the US but not so easily if the senate and the congress – house of representatives – both fall into the hands of the Republicans. Also read: US election 2024: Who is ex-wife of Kamala Harris' husband Dough Emhoff? All about.... West Asia crisis The Democratic candidate has been repeatedly affirming Biden's support for Israel's “right to defend itself.” However, she has also stressed that "the killing of innocent Palestinians has to stop." Meanwhile, Trump has also emphasised that it's time to get back to peace and stop killing people. He has also reportedly told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to “do what you have to do", which clearly gives Netanyahu a free hand to pursue what he wants. Watch | US Elections 2024: What Are Swing States, Why Are They Important? × Impact on Russia-Ukraine war On the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Trump has never stepped back on reiterating his admiration for strongmen like Russian President Vladimir Putin. He has made it clear that he wants the war to end, assuring support from the US government in terms of military and finances. “I’ll get out. We got to get out,” he said in a recent rally. Meanwhile, Democratic nominee Harris has clearly said that she is proud to stand with Ukraine. "I will continue to stand with Ukraine. And I will work to ensure Ukraine prevails in this war," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

How US presidential election could impact global political landscape

<p>Climate breakdown has led to more than half of 68,000 heat-related deaths during the blazing European summer of 2022, according to a study.</p>

<p>Researchers from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) found 38,000 fewer people would have died from heat if humans had not clogged the atmosphere with pollutants that act like a greenhouse and bake the planet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the death toll is ten times more than the number of people murdered in Europe that year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lead author, Thessa Beck said, "Many see climate change as a future concern. Yet our findings underscore that it is already a pressing issue.”</p>

<p>The scorching heat&nbsp;killed more women than men, more southern Europeans than northern Europeans, and more older people than younger people, according to the study.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-reports-greenhouse-gases-hit-new-record-highs-in-2023-771383"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Greenhouse gases hit new record highs in 2023, warns UN report</strong></a></p>

<p>The scientists knew that carbon pollution had made the heatwaves hotter, but they did not know how much it had driven up the death toll.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They further found that 56 per cent of heat-related deaths could have been avoided if the world had not been warmed by burning fossil fuels and the destruction of nature.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Six years ago, this number ranged between 44 per cent to 54 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Climate Change Causing Extreme Weather Events In Africa: Experts</strong></p>

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<p>Emily Theokritoff, a researcher at Imperial College London, said that even small increases in temperatures can have devastating impacts on public health.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This result makes sense – heat-related death increases rapidly as temperatures push past the limits people are acclimatized to," said Theokritoff, who was not involved in the study.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Europe has been warming twice as fast as the rest of the planet and the doctors have warned that its hospitals are unprepared to deal with it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Beck noted that the dangers of extreme heat are even greater in Africa, Asia, and South America, but a lack of data has limited studies on how it affects human health.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“A common misconception is that only extreme temperatures pose a serious risk,” she said. “However, our study, along with previous research, shows that even moderate heat can lead to heat-related deaths, particularly among more vulnerable populations.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Climate breakdown has led to more than half of 68,000 heat-related deaths during the blazing European summer of 2022, according to a study. Researchers from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) found 38,000 fewer people would have died from heat if humans had not clogged the atmosphere with pollutants that act like a greenhouse and bake the planet.

Climate breakdown has led to more than half of 68,000 heat-related deaths during the blazing European summer of 2022, according to a study. Researchers from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) found 38,000 fewer people would have died from heat if humans had not clogged the atmosphere with pollutants that act like a greenhouse and bake the planet. Notably, the death toll is ten times more than the number of people murdered in Europe that year. Lead author, Thessa Beck said, "Many see climate change as a future concern. Yet our findings underscore that it is already a pressing issue.” The scorching heat killed more women than men, more southern Europeans than northern Europeans, and more older people than younger people, according to the study. Also read: Greenhouse gases hit new record highs in 2023, warns UN report The scientists knew that carbon pollution had made the heatwaves hotter, but they did not know how much it had driven up the death toll. They further found that 56 per cent of heat-related deaths could have been avoided if the world had not been warmed by burning fossil fuels and the destruction of nature. Six years ago, this number ranged between 44 per cent to 54 per cent. Watch | Climate Change Causing Extreme Weather Events In Africa: Experts × Emily Theokritoff, a researcher at Imperial College London, said that even small increases in temperatures can have devastating impacts on public health. “This result makes sense – heat-related death increases rapidly as temperatures push past the limits people are acclimatized to," said Theokritoff, who was not involved in the study. Notably, Europe has been warming twice as fast as the rest of the planet and the doctors have warned that its hospitals are unprepared to deal with it. Beck noted that the dangers of extreme heat are even greater in Africa, Asia, and South America, but a lack of data has limited studies on how it affects human health. “A common misconception is that only extreme temperatures pose a serious risk,” she said. “However, our study, along with previous research, shows that even moderate heat can lead to heat-related deaths, particularly among more vulnerable populations.” (With inputs from agencies)

Climate breakdown led to half of European heat deaths in 2022: Study

<p>Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya celebrated its first "Deepotsav" since the consecration of the Ram Temple, on Wednesday (Oct 30), with over 2.5 million diyas lit on the bank of River Saryu, creating a Guinness World Record.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led the celebrations in Ayodhya. Along with Yogi, other cabinet ministers also joined him in lighting the first few lamps for the launch of the celebration.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Guinness World Record</strong></h2>

<p>Ayodhya created a new Guinness World Record by lighting 2,512,585 diyas on Ram ki Paidi and 54 other ghats along the Saryu River.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This broke the last record of 2,223,000 diyas set in 2023.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The other Guinness World Record was of&nbsp;1,121 people performing Saryu aarti simultaneously. The 1,121 individuals were 'vedacharyas' (teachers of religious texts), reported&nbsp;news agency PTI.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhyas-ram-mandir-bans-offerings-made-by-external-agencies-amid-tirupati-laddoo-row-762567"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Ayodhya's Ram Mandir bans offerings made by external agencies amid Tirupati laddoo row</strong></a></p>

<p>CM Yogi Adityanath received&nbsp;the certificates of two&nbsp;new Guinness World Records created during the Deepotsav celebrations in Ayodhya.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UP tourism shared a post on X, with images showing the vibrant celebration in Ayodhya.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A night to remember - the sky shone brighter than ever - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Deepotsav2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Deepotsav2024</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Deepotsav?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Deepotsav</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Deepotsav2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Deepotsav2024</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AyodhyaDeepotsav?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AyodhyaDeepotsav</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DeepotsavAyodhya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DeepotsavAyodhya</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPTourism?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPTourism</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UttarPradesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UttarPradesh</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ayodhya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ayodhya</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShriRam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShriRam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ram?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ram</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rama?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rama</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReligiousTourism?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReligiousTourism</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MukeshMeshram?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MukeshMeshram</a> <a href="https://t.co/KjmJdniTAU">pic.twitter.com/KjmJdniTAU</a></p>
— UP Tourism (@uptourismgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/uptourismgov/status/1851627616094290046?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Around 30,000 volunteers from Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University lit diyas along the&nbsp;55 ghats throughout the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, a laser and drone show was also organised, showing events from Ramayan.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Uttar Pradesh: Drone show underway at Saryu Ghat in Ayodhya.<br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Diwali2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Diwali2024</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Deepotsav?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Deepotsav</a> <a href="https://t.co/2aUgNUAGxS">pic.twitter.com/2aUgNUAGxS</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1851621973564285244?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The celebration also featured cultural performances from artists representing six countries, including Nepal, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Malaysia, and Indonesia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Ayodhya: Birthplace Of Lord Ram Dazzles In Divine Light During Diwali Season</strong></p>

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<p>Deepotsav, a five-day festival, commemorates Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile. The event showcases Ayodhya's cultural and spiritual heritage, drawing millions of devotees and tourists.<br />
<br />
Deepostav, being organised by the UP government in Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram, since 2017, has become a grand spectacle over the years.</p>

<p>Diwali is one of India's most celebrated festivals. It symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya celebrated its first "Deepotsav" since the consecration of the Ram Temple, on Wednesday (Oct 30), with over 2.5 million diyas lit on the bank of River Saryu, creating a Guinness World Record.

Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya celebrated its first "Deepotsav" since the consecration of the Ram Temple, on Wednesday (Oct 30), with over 2.5 million diyas lit on the bank of River Saryu, creating a Guinness World Record. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led the celebrations in Ayodhya. Along with Yogi, other cabinet ministers also joined him in lighting the first few lamps for the launch of the celebration. Guinness World Record Ayodhya created a new Guinness World Record by lighting 2,512,585 diyas on Ram ki Paidi and 54 other ghats along the Saryu River. This broke the last record of 2,223,000 diyas set in 2023. The other Guinness World Record was of 1,121 people performing Saryu aarti simultaneously. The 1,121 individuals were 'vedacharyas' (teachers of religious texts), reported news agency PTI. Also read: Ayodhya's Ram Mandir bans offerings made by external agencies amid Tirupati laddoo row CM Yogi Adityanath received the certificates of two new Guinness World Records created during the Deepotsav celebrations in Ayodhya. The UP tourism shared a post on X, with images showing the vibrant celebration in Ayodhya. A night to remember - the sky shone brighter than ever - #Deepotsav2024!#Deepotsav #Deepotsav2024 #AyodhyaDeepotsav #DeepotsavAyodhya #UPTourism #UttarPradesh #Ayodhya #ShriRam #Ram #Rama #ReligiousTourism @MukeshMeshram pic.twitter.com/KjmJdniTAU — UP Tourism (@uptourismgov) October 30, 2024 × Around 30,000 volunteers from Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University lit diyas along the 55 ghats throughout the city. Moreover, a laser and drone show was also organised, showing events from Ramayan. #WATCH | Uttar Pradesh: Drone show underway at Saryu Ghat in Ayodhya. #Diwali2024 #Deepotsav pic.twitter.com/2aUgNUAGxS — ANI (@ANI) October 30, 2024 × The celebration also featured cultural performances from artists representing six countries, including Nepal, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Watch | Ayodhya: Birthplace Of Lord Ram Dazzles In Divine Light During Diwali Season × Deepotsav, a five-day festival, commemorates Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile. The event showcases Ayodhya's cultural and spiritual heritage, drawing millions of devotees and tourists. Deepostav, being organised by the UP government in Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram, since 2017, has become a grand spectacle over the years. Diwali is one of India's most celebrated festivals. It symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. (With inputs from agencies)

Ayodhya's record-breaking Diwali: City lit up with 2.5mn diyas, drone and laser shows

<p>Three Chinese astronauts including the country's only woman spaceflight engineer entered the Tiangong space station on Wednesday (Oct 30) following an early morning launch into orbit.</p>

<p>The Shenzhou-19 mission took off with its trio of space explorers at 4:27 am (2027 GMT Tuesday) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, Xinhua and state broadcaster CCTV reported.</p>

<p>Among the crew is Wang Haoze, 34, China's only woman spaceflight engineer, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). She is the third Chinese woman to take part in a crewed mission.</p>

<p>The crew arrived around 12:51 pm and met with the astronauts from the previous Shenzhou-18 mission, "starting a new round of in-orbit crew handover", state news agency Xinhua said.</p>

<p>The new Tiangong team will carry out experiments with an eye to the space programme's goal of placing astronauts on the Moon by 2030 and eventually constructing a lunar base.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-chinese-astronauts-show-off-their-lavish-space-at-tiangong-space-station-772002"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Watch: Chinese astronauts show off their lavish space at Tiangong space station</strong></a></p>

<p>"Like everyone else, I dream of going to the space station to have a look," Wang told a media gathering Tuesday alongside her fellow crew members, lined up behind podiums and tall panes of glass to seal them off from the public.</p>

<p>"I want to meticulously complete each task and protect our home in space," she said.</p>

<p>"I also want to travel in deep space and wave at the stars."</p>

<p>The space agency deemed the launch a "complete success", Xinhua said, adding that about 10 minutes after taking off, the spaceship separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit.</p>

<p>Xinhua later said the spaceship had "made a fast, automated rendezvous and docking with the front port of the space station's core module Tianhe at 11:00 am", and that the trio would then enter the module.</p>

<h2><strong>'Honour of my mission'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Headed by Cai Xuzhe, the team will return to Earth in late April or early May next year, CMSA Deputy Director Lin Xiqiang said at a separate press event ahead of the launch.</p>

<p>Cai, a 48-year-old former Air Force pilot, brings experience from a previous stint aboard Tiangong as part of the Shenzhou-14 mission in 2022.</p>

<p>"Having been selected for the new crew, taking on a new role, facing new tasks and new challenges, I feel the honor of my mission with a great responsibility," said Cai.</p>

<p>The aerospace veteran added that the crew was now "fully prepared mentally, technically, physically and psychologically" for the mission ahead.</p>

<p>Completing the astronaut lineup is 34-year-old Song Lingdong.</p>

<p>The new and old crew will live and work together for about five days to complete planned tasks and handover work, the CMSA said, according to Xinhua.</p>

<p>The Shenzhou-18 crew is scheduled to return to Earth on November 4, it added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Space dream'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>China has ramped up plans to achieve its "space dream" under President Xi Jinping.</p>

<p>Its space programme was the third to put humans in orbit and has also landed robotic rovers on Mars and the Moon.</p>

<p>Crewed by teams of three astronauts that are rotated every six months, the Tiangong space station is the program's crown jewel.</p>

<p>Beijing says it is on track to send a crewed mission to the Moon by 2030, where it intends to construct a base on the lunar surface.</p>

<p>The Shenzhou-19 crew's time aboard Tiangong will see them carry out various experiments, including some involving "bricks" made from components imitating lunar soil, CCTV reported.</p>

<p>These items&nbsp;–&nbsp;to be delivered to Tiangong by the Tianzhou-8 cargo ship in November&nbsp;–&nbsp;will be tested to see how they fare in extreme radiation, gravity, temperature and other conditions.</p>

<p>Due to the high cost of transporting materials into space, Chinese scientists hope to be able to use lunar soil for the construction of the future base, CCTV reported.</p>

<p>The Shenzhou-19 mission is primarily about "accumulating additional experience", Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics in the United States, told AFP.</p>

<p>While this particular crew's six-month stint aboard Tiangong may not witness major breakthroughs or feats, it is still "very valuable to do", said McDowell.</p>

<p>China has in recent decades injected billions of dollars into developing an advanced space programme on par with the United States and Europe.</p>

<p>In 2019, China successfully landed its Chang'e-4 probe on the far side of the moon, the first spacecraft ever to do so. In 2021, it landed a small robot on Mars.</p>

<p>Tiangong, whose core module launched in 2021, is planned to be used for about 10 years.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Three Chinese astronauts including the country's only woman spaceflight engineer entered the Tiangong space station on Wednesday (Oct 30) following an early morning launch into orbit.

Three Chinese astronauts including the country's only woman spaceflight engineer entered the Tiangong space station on Wednesday (Oct 30) following an early morning launch into orbit. The Shenzhou-19 mission took off with its trio of space explorers at 4:27 am (2027 GMT Tuesday) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, Xinhua and state broadcaster CCTV reported. Among the crew is Wang Haoze, 34, China's only woman spaceflight engineer, according to the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA). She is the third Chinese woman to take part in a crewed mission. The crew arrived around 12:51 pm and met with the astronauts from the previous Shenzhou-18 mission, "starting a new round of in-orbit crew handover", state news agency Xinhua said. The new Tiangong team will carry out experiments with an eye to the space programme's goal of placing astronauts on the Moon by 2030 and eventually constructing a lunar base. Also read: Watch: Chinese astronauts show off their lavish space at Tiangong space station "Like everyone else, I dream of going to the space station to have a look," Wang told a media gathering Tuesday alongside her fellow crew members, lined up behind podiums and tall panes of glass to seal them off from the public. "I want to meticulously complete each task and protect our home in space," she said. "I also want to travel in deep space and wave at the stars." The space agency deemed the launch a "complete success", Xinhua said, adding that about 10 minutes after taking off, the spaceship separated from the rocket and entered its designated orbit. Xinhua later said the spaceship had "made a fast, automated rendezvous and docking with the front port of the space station's core module Tianhe at 11:00 am", and that the trio would then enter the module. 'Honour of my mission' Headed by Cai Xuzhe, the team will return to Earth in late April or early May next year, CMSA Deputy Director Lin Xiqiang said at a separate press event ahead of the launch. Cai, a 48-year-old former Air Force pilot, brings experience from a previous stint aboard Tiangong as part of the Shenzhou-14 mission in 2022. "Having been selected for the new crew, taking on a new role, facing new tasks and new challenges, I feel the honor of my mission with a great responsibility," said Cai. The aerospace veteran added that the crew was now "fully prepared mentally, technically, physically and psychologically" for the mission ahead. Completing the astronaut lineup is 34-year-old Song Lingdong. The new and old crew will live and work together for about five days to complete planned tasks and handover work, the CMSA said, according to Xinhua. The Shenzhou-18 crew is scheduled to return to Earth on November 4, it added. 'Space dream' China has ramped up plans to achieve its "space dream" under President Xi Jinping. Its space programme was the third to put humans in orbit and has also landed robotic rovers on Mars and the Moon. Crewed by teams of three astronauts that are rotated every six months, the Tiangong space station is the program's crown jewel. Beijing says it is on track to send a crewed mission to the Moon by 2030, where it intends to construct a base on the lunar surface. The Shenzhou-19 crew's time aboard Tiangong will see them carry out various experiments, including some involving "bricks" made from components imitating lunar soil, CCTV reported. These items – to be delivered to Tiangong by the Tianzhou-8 cargo ship in November – will be tested to see how they fare in extreme radiation, gravity, temperature and other conditions. Due to the high cost of transporting materials into space, Chinese scientists hope to be able to use lunar soil for the construction of the future base, CCTV reported. The Shenzhou-19 mission is primarily about "accumulating additional experience", Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics in the United States, told AFP. While this particular crew's six-month stint aboard Tiangong may not witness major breakthroughs or feats, it is still "very valuable to do", said McDowell. China has in recent decades injected billions of dollars into developing an advanced space programme on par with the United States and Europe. In 2019, China successfully landed its Chang'e-4 probe on the far side of the moon, the first spacecraft ever to do so. In 2021, it landed a small robot on Mars. Tiangong, whose core module launched in 2021, is planned to be used for about 10 years. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China sends 3 astronauts to Tiangong space station on Shenzhou-19 mission

<p>Britain's new finance minister Rachel Reeves announced the biggest tax increases in three decades in her first budget, as she accused the Conservatives of leaving public services broken when they lost July's election after 14 years in power.</p>

<p>Reeves said she would raise taxes by 40 billion pounds a year - much of it falling on businesses - to cover a 22 billion-pound shortfall inherited by her Labour Party, the lack of compensation payments, including for victims of an infected blood scandal, and under-funding of public services.</p>

<p>"Any Chancellor standing here today would face this reality," Reeves said in her budget speech.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"And any responsible Chancellor would take action. That is why today, I am restoring stability to our public finances and rebuilding our public service."</p>

<p>Reeves has said she will not let public debt balloon, mindful of how former Conservative Prime Minister Liz Truss sent the bond market into a tailspin two years ago with unfunded tax cut plans.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/britain-faces-warnings-of-a-tech-exodus-over-tax-plans-ahead-of-high-stakes-budget-769608"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Tax plans worries spark UK tech exodus fears ahead of budget</strong></a></p>

<p>Initial reaction to Reeves speech suggested investors were taking her plans well, with government bond prices rising further as she addressed parliament.</p>

<p>According to the Institute for Fiscal Studies think-tank, tax hikes of 40 billion pounds would be equivalent to 1.25 per cent&nbsp;of economic output, surpassed in recent history only in 1993 by a budget plan under the Conservatives which raised taxes to shore up the public finances after a recession and currency crisis.</p>

<p>Reeves said she would raise the rate of social security contributions paid by employers by 1.2 percentage points to 15 per cent&nbsp;from April next year, and lower a threshold at which firms start to pay it - moves which would raise an extra 25 billion pounds a year in five years' time.</p>

<p>Company bosses have warned that higher taxes on them, combined with planned new protections for workers and an increased minimum wage, could undermine Labour's promises to turn Britain into the fastest-growing Group of Seven economy.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;UK: Birthrate Falls To Record Low In England And Wales</strong></p>

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<p>Reeves announced a string of other revenue-raising moves including changes to the tax rules on capital gains and inheritances and tax paid by private equity executives and non-domiciled residents.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Keir Starmer had warned "those with the broadest shoulders" will have to pay more tax.</p>

<p>But she ruled out making more individuals pay basic and higher income tax rates by extending a freeze on the threshold for payments beyond its scheduled expiry in the 2028-29 tax year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She also extended a freeze on fuel duty and a cut a tax on beer served in pubs.</p>

<p>Reeves also said Britain's economy was forecast to grow by more than expected this year and in 2025 but by less than previously forecast in the following three years.</p>

<p>Reeves was likely to announce changes to the government's budget rules to allow her to borrow more to invest in infrastructure and accelerate Britain's economic growth pace.</p>

<p>Bond strategists say they are confident that Reeves - a former Bank of England economist - will be more cautious than former Prime Minister Liz Truss, whose big tax-cut plans hammered British debt prices in 2022 and led to her resignation.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Britain's new finance minister Rachel Reeves announced the biggest tax increases in three decades in her first budget, as she accused the Conservatives of leaving public services broken when they lost July's election after 14 years in power.

Britain's new finance minister Rachel Reeves announced the biggest tax increases in three decades in her first budget, as she accused the Conservatives of leaving public services broken when they lost July's election after 14 years in power. Reeves said she would raise taxes by 40 billion pounds a year - much of it falling on businesses - to cover a 22 billion-pound shortfall inherited by her Labour Party, the lack of compensation payments, including for victims of an infected blood scandal, and under-funding of public services. "Any Chancellor standing here today would face this reality," Reeves said in her budget speech. "And any responsible Chancellor would take action. That is why today, I am restoring stability to our public finances and rebuilding our public service." Reeves has said she will not let public debt balloon, mindful of how former Conservative Prime Minister Liz Truss sent the bond market into a tailspin two years ago with unfunded tax cut plans. Also read: Tax plans worries spark UK tech exodus fears ahead of budget Initial reaction to Reeves speech suggested investors were taking her plans well, with government bond prices rising further as she addressed parliament. According to the Institute for Fiscal Studies think-tank, tax hikes of 40 billion pounds would be equivalent to 1.25 per cent of economic output, surpassed in recent history only in 1993 by a budget plan under the Conservatives which raised taxes to shore up the public finances after a recession and currency crisis. Reeves said she would raise the rate of social security contributions paid by employers by 1.2 percentage points to 15 per cent from April next year, and lower a threshold at which firms start to pay it - moves which would raise an extra 25 billion pounds a year in five years' time. Company bosses have warned that higher taxes on them, combined with planned new protections for workers and an increased minimum wage, could undermine Labour's promises to turn Britain into the fastest-growing Group of Seven economy. Watch | UK: Birthrate Falls To Record Low In England And Wales × Reeves announced a string of other revenue-raising moves including changes to the tax rules on capital gains and inheritances and tax paid by private equity executives and non-domiciled residents. Prime Minister Keir Starmer had warned "those with the broadest shoulders" will have to pay more tax. But she ruled out making more individuals pay basic and higher income tax rates by extending a freeze on the threshold for payments beyond its scheduled expiry in the 2028-29 tax year. She also extended a freeze on fuel duty and a cut a tax on beer served in pubs. Reeves also said Britain's economy was forecast to grow by more than expected this year and in 2025 but by less than previously forecast in the following three years. Reeves was likely to announce changes to the government's budget rules to allow her to borrow more to invest in infrastructure and accelerate Britain's economic growth pace. Bond strategists say they are confident that Reeves - a former Bank of England economist - will be more cautious than former Prime Minister Liz Truss, whose big tax-cut plans hammered British debt prices in 2022 and led to her resignation. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

UK finance minister lifts taxes by $51.8bn in first Labour budget

<p>At least 62 people have died after flash floods hit southeastern Spain, sweeping away cars and vehicles, and turning village streets into rivers, the regional government of Valencia confirmed on Wednesday (Oct 30).&nbsp;</p>

<p>This marks the worst natural disaster to hit the European nation as far as people can remember.&nbsp;</p>

<p>51 people were confirmed dead in the eastern region of Valencia. Moreover, the central government office for Castilla La Mancha region said that an 88-year-old woman was found dead in the city of Cuenca.</p>

<h2><strong>Three days of mourning</strong></h2>

<p>Spain will observe three days of mourning from Thursday (Oct 31) as the floods killed over 60 people in the eastern Valencia region, a government minister said.</p>

<p>Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez spoke with King Felipe VI on Wednesday and informed him of the official days of mourning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the rescue operation continues, people were advised to stay off the roads amid warnings that the number of fatalities could rise.</p>

<p>The Valencian government’s emergency coordination centre said its multiple victims protocol had been activated, adding, “The initial toll logged by different police and emergency services puts the provisional number of victims at 51 people. We are beginning the process of recovering and identifying the victims.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Flash Floods In Spain; National Weather Agency Issues Red Alert For Valencia Region</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Valencia's regional president Carlos Mazón said it is too early to provide a comprehensive death toll.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“These are very difficult hours for relatives and for the disappeared,” said Mazon. “We will confirm the number of victims over the coming hours but right now it’s impossible to offer a precise figure. We’re in shock.”</p>

<p>People were seen sharing images and videos on social media X, showing the devastating situation in Spain.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Devastating image aftermath flood in the Alfafar in the province of Valencia, Spain 🇪🇸 (30.10.2024) <a href="https://t.co/HAv3vRgP2z">pic.twitter.com/HAv3vRgP2z</a></p>
— Disaster News (@Top_Disaster) <a href="https://twitter.com/Top_Disaster/status/1851557250260938849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>One of the X user shared a video a street completed waterlogged with flood water, and damaged cars, stressing that the people are still without electricity in the town.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Flood in Spain. This is how we woke up in Sedaví (Valencia) Let's hope that the fatalities are as few as possible. We are still without electricity in the town. What a disaster...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Valencia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Valencia</a> <a href="https://t.co/etICHG1Jc9">pic.twitter.com/etICHG1Jc9</a></p>
— Ak (@Shaftesbury512) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shaftesbury512/status/1851538028327526537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ricardo Gabaldon, the mayor of Utiel, a town in Valencia, told national broadcaster RTVE, "Yesterday was the worst day of my life."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We were trapped like rats. Cars and trash containers were flowing down the streets. The water was rising to three metres," he said.</p>

<p>Over 1000 soldiers were deployed from Spain's emergency response units to the affected areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


At least 62 people have died after flash floods hit southeastern Spain, sweeping away cars and vehicles, and turning village streets into rivers, the regional government of Valencia confirmed on Wednesday (Oct 30).

At least 62 people have died after flash floods hit southeastern Spain, sweeping away cars and vehicles, and turning village streets into rivers, the regional government of Valencia confirmed on Wednesday (Oct 30). This marks the worst natural disaster to hit the European nation as far as people can remember. 51 people were confirmed dead in the eastern region of Valencia. Moreover, the central government office for Castilla La Mancha region said that an 88-year-old woman was found dead in the city of Cuenca. Three days of mourning Spain will observe three days of mourning from Thursday (Oct 31) as the floods killed over 60 people in the eastern Valencia region, a government minister said. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez spoke with King Felipe VI on Wednesday and informed him of the official days of mourning. As the rescue operation continues, people were advised to stay off the roads amid warnings that the number of fatalities could rise. The Valencian government’s emergency coordination centre said its multiple victims protocol had been activated, adding, “The initial toll logged by different police and emergency services puts the provisional number of victims at 51 people. We are beginning the process of recovering and identifying the victims.” Watch | Flash Floods In Spain; National Weather Agency Issues Red Alert For Valencia Region × Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Valencia's regional president Carlos Mazón said it is too early to provide a comprehensive death toll. “These are very difficult hours for relatives and for the disappeared,” said Mazon. “We will confirm the number of victims over the coming hours but right now it’s impossible to offer a precise figure. We’re in shock.” People were seen sharing images and videos on social media X, showing the devastating situation in Spain. Devastating image aftermath flood in the Alfafar in the province of Valencia, Spain 🇪🇸 (30.10.2024) pic.twitter.com/HAv3vRgP2z — Disaster News (@Top_Disaster) October 30, 2024 × One of the X user shared a video a street completed waterlogged with flood water, and damaged cars, stressing that the people are still without electricity in the town. Flood in Spain. This is how we woke up in Sedaví (Valencia) Let's hope that the fatalities are as few as possible. We are still without electricity in the town. What a disaster...#Valencia pic.twitter.com/etICHG1Jc9 — Ak (@Shaftesbury512) October 30, 2024 × Ricardo Gabaldon, the mayor of Utiel, a town in Valencia, told national broadcaster RTVE, "Yesterday was the worst day of my life." "We were trapped like rats. Cars and trash containers were flowing down the streets. The water was rising to three metres," he said. Over 1000 soldiers were deployed from Spain's emergency response units to the affected areas. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: At least 62 dead as flash floods hit Spain

<p>Deputy commander of Lebanon-based Hezbollah's elite Radwan Force, Mustafa Ahmad Shahadi, was killed in a recent airstrike, Israel Defence Forces (IDF) announced on Wednesday (Oct 30).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mustafa Ahmad Shahadi was killed in a strike carried out by fighter jets in southern Lebanon's Nabatieh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The IDF posted a statement on X, announcing, "ELIMINATED: Deputy Commander of Hezbollah’s Radwan Forces, Mustafa Ahmad Shahdi."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/temporary-appointment-israels-explosive-message-to-hezbollahs-new-chief-qassem-772055"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;‘Temporary appointment,’ Israel’s explosive message to Hezbollah’s new chief Qassem</strong></a></p>

<p>"Shahdi advanced numerous terrorist attacks against Israel and oversaw attacks against IDF soldiers in southern Lebanon. He was also previously responsible for the Radwan Forces' operations during combat in Syria in 2012-2017," the Israeli forces added in the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They further mentioned that killing Shahdi is "part of the effort to degrade Hezbollah’s Radwan Forces' capabilities to direct and execute terrorist activities against IDF troops and communities in the northern border, in particular the Conquer the Galilee plan."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🔴 ELIMINATED: Deputy Commander of Hezbollah’s Radwan Forces, Mustafa Ahmad Shahdi.<br />
<br />
Shahdi advanced numerous terrorist attacks against Israel and oversaw attacks against IDF soldiers in southern Lebanon. He was also previously responsible for the Radwan Forces' operations during… <a href="https://t.co/dAErJzAeQX">pic.twitter.com/dAErJzAeQX</a></p>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1851601556963016868?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Radwan Force is believed to have planned to invade northern Israel, however, the plan was not executed, according to The Times of Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Shahadi was head of Radwan operations during fighting in Syria between 2012 and 2017, the IDF stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Deputy commander of Lebanon-based Hezbollah's elite Radwan Force, Mustafa Ahmad Shahadi, was killed in a recent airstrike, Israel Defence Forces (IDF) announced on Wednesday (Oct 30).

Deputy commander of Lebanon-based Hezbollah's elite Radwan Force, Mustafa Ahmad Shahadi, was killed in a recent airstrike, Israel Defence Forces (IDF) announced on Wednesday (Oct 30). Mustafa Ahmad Shahadi was killed in a strike carried out by fighter jets in southern Lebanon's Nabatieh. The IDF posted a statement on X, announcing, "ELIMINATED: Deputy Commander of Hezbollah’s Radwan Forces, Mustafa Ahmad Shahdi." Also read: ‘Temporary appointment,’ Israel’s explosive message to Hezbollah’s new chief Qassem "Shahdi advanced numerous terrorist attacks against Israel and oversaw attacks against IDF soldiers in southern Lebanon. He was also previously responsible for the Radwan Forces' operations during combat in Syria in 2012-2017," the Israeli forces added in the statement. They further mentioned that killing Shahdi is "part of the effort to degrade Hezbollah’s Radwan Forces' capabilities to direct and execute terrorist activities against IDF troops and communities in the northern border, in particular the Conquer the Galilee plan." 🔴 ELIMINATED: Deputy Commander of Hezbollah’s Radwan Forces, Mustafa Ahmad Shahdi. Shahdi advanced numerous terrorist attacks against Israel and oversaw attacks against IDF soldiers in southern Lebanon. He was also previously responsible for the Radwan Forces' operations during… pic.twitter.com/dAErJzAeQX — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 30, 2024 × The Radwan Force is believed to have planned to invade northern Israel, however, the plan was not executed, according to The Times of Israel. Earlier, Shahadi was head of Radwan operations during fighting in Syria between 2012 and 2017, the IDF stated. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Deputy chief of Hezbollah's elite Radwan Force killed in Israeli airstrikes: IDF

<p>As the Indian city of Ayodhya gears to set&nbsp;two Guinness World Records by lighting over 2.5 million diyas, Samajwadi Party (SP) leader and Faizabad's Member of Parliament (MP)&nbsp;Awadhesh Prasad said on Wednesday (Oct 30), that the city's&nbsp;administration didn't invite him to the Deepotsav event.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The MP accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of "politicising our festivals".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prasad told news agency ANI, "I extend my greetings to all residents of Ayodhya on the occasion of Diwali. I consider it my good fortune that I was elected from here. BJP is politicising our festivals too. I hope this will be a festival of brotherhood. BJP is politicising this festival and dividing people. I have not received a pass or invitation to Deepotsav. This festival doesn't belong to any one community. I will be going to Ayodhya today. I have not got any pass or invitation for Deepotsav."&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-mentions-first-diwali-of-ayodhya-ram-temple-on-dhanteras-771743"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;In Dhanteras greeting, PM Modi mentions ‘particularly special’ Diwali in Ayodhya</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Lamp lighting event with 2.5 million diyas &nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>This is the first Diwali after the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The temple will feature two record attempts, an 1100-person Saryu Aarti and the main lamp lighting event with 2.5 million diyas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A 30-member team from the Guinness Book of World Records has arrived in Ayodhya to oversee preparations for Deepotsav.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India: Ayodhya To Be Lit Up With 28 Lakh Oil Lamps</strong></p>

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<p>Guinness Book of World Records Team In-charge, Nischal Barot announced that two world records are set to be attempted during the festivities in Ayodhya.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is the seventh Deepotsav but this time it is a little special because after the Ram Mandir has been built, it is the first Deepotsav. This time there are two Guinness Book of Records, the first is that a record-breaking number of 1100 people will do the Saryu Aarti and the second is lightning of 25 lakh Diyas," Nischal Barot told ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Deepotsav, a five-day festival, commemorates Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As the Indian city of Ayodhya gears to set two Guinness World Records by lighting over 2.5 million diyas, Samajwadi Party (SP) leader and Faizabad's Member of Parliament (MP) Awadhesh Prasad said on Wednesday (Oct 30), that the city's administration didn't invite him to the Deepotsav event.

As the Indian city of Ayodhya gears to set two Guinness World Records by lighting over 2.5 million diyas, Samajwadi Party (SP) leader and Faizabad's Member of Parliament (MP) Awadhesh Prasad said on Wednesday (Oct 30), that the city's administration didn't invite him to the Deepotsav event. The MP accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of "politicising our festivals". Prasad told news agency ANI, "I extend my greetings to all residents of Ayodhya on the occasion of Diwali. I consider it my good fortune that I was elected from here. BJP is politicising our festivals too. I hope this will be a festival of brotherhood. BJP is politicising this festival and dividing people. I have not received a pass or invitation to Deepotsav. This festival doesn't belong to any one community. I will be going to Ayodhya today. I have not got any pass or invitation for Deepotsav." Also read: In Dhanteras greeting, PM Modi mentions ‘particularly special’ Diwali in Ayodhya Lamp lighting event with 2.5 million diyas This is the first Diwali after the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The temple will feature two record attempts, an 1100-person Saryu Aarti and the main lamp lighting event with 2.5 million diyas. A 30-member team from the Guinness Book of World Records has arrived in Ayodhya to oversee preparations for Deepotsav. Watch | India: Ayodhya To Be Lit Up With 28 Lakh Oil Lamps × Guinness Book of World Records Team In-charge, Nischal Barot announced that two world records are set to be attempted during the festivities in Ayodhya. "This is the seventh Deepotsav but this time it is a little special because after the Ram Mandir has been built, it is the first Deepotsav. This time there are two Guinness Book of Records, the first is that a record-breaking number of 1100 people will do the Saryu Aarti and the second is lightning of 25 lakh Diyas," Nischal Barot told ANI. Deepotsav, a five-day festival, commemorates Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Ayodhya MP says 'didn't get invite for Deepotsav'; temple set to create record with 2.5 mn diyas

<p>Former Delhi chief minister and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday asked the Delhi residents to refrain from busting firecrackers and light diyas on Diwali, noting that Diwali is a festival of lights and not firecrackers.</p>

<p>Speaking at a press conference, Kejriwal&nbsp;said, "Even the Supreme Court and High Court say that in view of the pollution, we should not burst crackers; we should light diyas. This is the festival of lights and not fireworks. It is not as if we are doing a favour to anybody. Whatever pollution will happen, our children will suffer from it, so there is no Hindu-Muslim in this. Everyone's life is important."</p>

<p>This came amidst rising air pollution in the national capital. Delhi's air quality has deteriorated over the last several days, prompting the Delhi government to take measures to control air pollution.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-mentions-first-diwali-of-ayodhya-ram-temple-on-dhanteras-771743"><strong>Also read: In Dhanteras greeting, PM Modi mentions ‘particularly special’ Diwali in Ayodhya</strong></a></p>

<p>Earlier, Delhi environment minister Gopal Rai wrote to Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, urging him to take stringent action against violations of the firecracker ban in the national capital.</p>

<p>With the intent of curbing pollution, Minister Gopal Rai on October 14&nbsp;announced a ban on the production, storage, distribution, and use of firecrackers in the city until January 1.</p>

<p>"It has been brought to my notice that despite the ban, firecrackers are being openly sold in various markets of Delhi. These firecrackers are being brought through various borders connecting Delhi to Haryana and Uttar Pradesh," read the letter of Gopal Rai to LG Saxena.</p>

<p>The letter further read, "It implies that Delhi Police as law enforcement agencies have not taken the directions to ban firecrackers seriously and vendors are openly flouting the ban imposed."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Diwali 2024: How Diwali Is Celebrated Across India</strong></p>

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<p>Notably, a thin layer of smog covered the National Capital on Tuesday as parts of Delhi's air quality remained in the 'very poor' category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of over 300 recorded around 7:00 am, as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).</p>

<p>At Anand Vihar, the AQI reached 317 at 7:00 am, while Aya Nagar recorded an AQI of 312, both falling under the 'very poor' category. Jahangirpuri also saw a high AQI of 308. In contrast, the air quality at Chandni Chowk was better, registered at 191, which is considered 'moderate.'</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders reported on Monday that 108 incidents of stubble burning were recorded in Punjab. They staged a protest against Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann over air pollution concerns at Kapurthala House.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A delegation of leaders sought a meeting with the Punjab CM to submit a memorandum but was unable to meet him.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Former Delhi chief minister and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday asked the Delhi residents to refrain from busting firecrackers and light diyas on Diwali, noting that Diwali is a festival of lights and not firecrackers.

Former Delhi chief minister and AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday asked the Delhi residents to refrain from busting firecrackers and light diyas on Diwali, noting that Diwali is a festival of lights and not firecrackers. Speaking at a press conference, Kejriwal said, "Even the Supreme Court and High Court say that in view of the pollution, we should not burst crackers; we should light diyas. This is the festival of lights and not fireworks. It is not as if we are doing a favour to anybody. Whatever pollution will happen, our children will suffer from it, so there is no Hindu-Muslim in this. Everyone's life is important." This came amidst rising air pollution in the national capital. Delhi's air quality has deteriorated over the last several days, prompting the Delhi government to take measures to control air pollution. Also read: In Dhanteras greeting, PM Modi mentions ‘particularly special’ Diwali in Ayodhya Earlier, Delhi environment minister Gopal Rai wrote to Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, urging him to take stringent action against violations of the firecracker ban in the national capital. With the intent of curbing pollution, Minister Gopal Rai on October 14 announced a ban on the production, storage, distribution, and use of firecrackers in the city until January 1. "It has been brought to my notice that despite the ban, firecrackers are being openly sold in various markets of Delhi. These firecrackers are being brought through various borders connecting Delhi to Haryana and Uttar Pradesh," read the letter of Gopal Rai to LG Saxena. The letter further read, "It implies that Delhi Police as law enforcement agencies have not taken the directions to ban firecrackers seriously and vendors are openly flouting the ban imposed." Watch | Diwali 2024: How Diwali Is Celebrated Across India × Notably, a thin layer of smog covered the National Capital on Tuesday as parts of Delhi's air quality remained in the 'very poor' category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of over 300 recorded around 7:00 am, as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). At Anand Vihar, the AQI reached 317 at 7:00 am, while Aya Nagar recorded an AQI of 312, both falling under the 'very poor' category. Jahangirpuri also saw a high AQI of 308. In contrast, the air quality at Chandni Chowk was better, registered at 191, which is considered 'moderate.' Meanwhile, Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders reported on Monday that 108 incidents of stubble burning were recorded in Punjab. They staged a protest against Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann over air pollution concerns at Kapurthala House. A delegation of leaders sought a meeting with the Punjab CM to submit a memorandum but was unable to meet him. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Not doing a favour to anyone': Former Delhi CM Kejriwal urges people to not burst crackers on Diwali

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