<p>The World Health Organization on Wednesday (August 14) declared that the mpox surge in Africa is now a global public health emergency, sounding its highest possible alarm over the worsening situation.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Mpox in Africa: New MPOX strain stirs public health emergency in Africa</strong></p>

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<p>"Today, the emergency committee met and advised me that in its view, the situation constitutes a public health emergency of international concern. I have accepted that advice," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a press conference.</p>

<p>Amid worries caused by the rise in mpox cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the spread to nearby countries, the WHO hastily convened a meeting of experts to study the outbreak.</p>

<p>A Public Health Emergency is the highest level of alarm under the International Health Regulations, which are legally binding on 196 countries.</p>

<p>"The detection and rapid spread of a new clade of mpox in eastern DRC, its detection in neighbouring countries that had not previously reported mpox, and the potential for further spread within Africa and beyond is very worrying," said Tedros.</p>

<p>"It's clear that a coordinated international response is essential to stop these outbreaks and save lives.</p>

<p>"This is something that should concern us all."</p>

<p>WHO's decision comes after the African Union's health watchdog declared its own public health emergency over the growing outbreak.</p>

<p>Tedros said the more than 14,000 cases and 524 deaths reported so far this year in DR Congo had already exceeded last year's total.</p>

<p>"The emergence last year and rapid spread of clade 1b in DRC, which appears to be spreading mainly through sexual networks, and its detection in countries neighbouring DRC is especially concerning," he said, citing Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda.</p>

<p>He said many members feared the known situation in Africa was "actually the tip of the iceberg", because without surveillance, "we don't have the full picture".</p>

<p>Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO's epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention director, insisted: "We can stop transmission of mpox with a concerted effort."</p>

<p>Two vaccines for mpox are recommended by WHO immunisation experts.</p>

<h2><strong>What is mpox?</strong></h2>

<p>Formerly called monkeypox, the virus was first discovered in humans in 1970 in what is now the DRC.</p>

<p>Mpox is an infectious disease caused by a virus transmitted to humans by infected animals but can also be passed from human to human through close physical contact.</p>

<p>The disease causes fever, muscular aches and large boil-like skin lesions.</p>

<p>In May 2022, mpox infections surged worldwide, mostly affecting gay and bisexual men.</p>

<p>The WHO declared a public health emergency which lasted from July 2022 to May 2023. The outbreak, which has now largely subsided, caused some 140 deaths out of around 90,000 cases.</p>

<p>A Public Health Emergency has only been declared seven times previously since 2009: over H1N1 swine flu, poliovirus, Ebola, Zika virus, Ebola again, COVID-19 and mpox.</p>

<h2><strong>The cases reported so far</strong></h2>

<p>On Friday, the health department in Pakistan's&nbsp;Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province said it detected three cases of mpox.&nbsp;The viral infection was detected in the patients on their arrival from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the department said.&nbsp;&nbsp;It was not immediately clear which variant was detected in the patients.</p>

<p>A day earlier, Sweden confirmed its first case of the viral infection, which was also the first case outside Africa.</p>

<p>Addressing a press conference,&nbsp;Olivia Wigzell, director-general at the Swedish Public Health Agency, said that the person was&nbsp;infected while staying in a part of Africa where there was a large outbreak of the disease.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The World Health Organization on Wednesday (August 14) declared that the mpox surge in Africa is now a global public health emergency, sounding its highest possible alarm over the worsening situation.

The World Health Organization on Wednesday (August 14) declared that the mpox surge in Africa is now a global public health emergency, sounding its highest possible alarm over the worsening situation. Also watch | Mpox in Africa: New MPOX strain stirs public health emergency in Africa × "Today, the emergency committee met and advised me that in its view, the situation constitutes a public health emergency of international concern. I have accepted that advice," WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a press conference. Amid worries caused by the rise in mpox cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the spread to nearby countries, the WHO hastily convened a meeting of experts to study the outbreak. A Public Health Emergency is the highest level of alarm under the International Health Regulations, which are legally binding on 196 countries. "The detection and rapid spread of a new clade of mpox in eastern DRC, its detection in neighbouring countries that had not previously reported mpox, and the potential for further spread within Africa and beyond is very worrying," said Tedros. "It's clear that a coordinated international response is essential to stop these outbreaks and save lives. "This is something that should concern us all." WHO's decision comes after the African Union's health watchdog declared its own public health emergency over the growing outbreak. Tedros said the more than 14,000 cases and 524 deaths reported so far this year in DR Congo had already exceeded last year's total. "The emergence last year and rapid spread of clade 1b in DRC, which appears to be spreading mainly through sexual networks, and its detection in countries neighbouring DRC is especially concerning," he said, citing Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda. He said many members feared the known situation in Africa was "actually the tip of the iceberg", because without surveillance, "we don't have the full picture". Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO's epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention director, insisted: "We can stop transmission of mpox with a concerted effort." Two vaccines for mpox are recommended by WHO immunisation experts. What is mpox? Formerly called monkeypox, the virus was first discovered in humans in 1970 in what is now the DRC. Mpox is an infectious disease caused by a virus transmitted to humans by infected animals but can also be passed from human to human through close physical contact. The disease causes fever, muscular aches and large boil-like skin lesions. In May 2022, mpox infections surged worldwide, mostly affecting gay and bisexual men. The WHO declared a public health emergency which lasted from July 2022 to May 2023. The outbreak, which has now largely subsided, caused some 140 deaths out of around 90,000 cases. A Public Health Emergency has only been declared seven times previously since 2009: over H1N1 swine flu, poliovirus, Ebola, Zika virus, Ebola again, COVID-19 and mpox. The cases reported so far On Friday, the health department in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province said it detected three cases of mpox. The viral infection was detected in the patients on their arrival from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the department said. It was not immediately clear which variant was detected in the patients. A day earlier, Sweden confirmed its first case of the viral infection, which was also the first case outside Africa. Addressing a press conference, Olivia Wigzell, director-general at the Swedish Public Health Agency, said that the person was infected while staying in a part of Africa where there was a large outbreak of the disease. (With inputs from agencies)

What is mpox? Which countries have reported cases so far?

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Foxconn Chairman Young Liu to discuss the latter's investment plans on Wednesday, weeks after New Delhi started investigating possible discriminatory hiring practices at a Foxconn plant following a Reuters report.</p>

<p>Modi "highlighted the wonderful opportunities India offers in futuristic sectors" to Liu at the meeting, he said in a post on X that included photos of the pair.</p>

<p>"We also had excellent discussions on their investment plans in India in states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh," Modi wrote.</p>

<p>Modi sees Foxconn's iPhone factory in India and Apple's expansion of its supply chain in the South Asian nation, beyond China, as potentially helping the world's most populous country move up the economic-value chain.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foxconn-factory-in-india-accused-of-denying-jobs-to-married-women-735256">Foxconn factory in India accused of denying jobs to married women: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>A Reuters investigation published in June found that Foxconn excluded married women from assembly jobs at its main Indian iPhone plant in Tamil Nadu state. Foxconn acknowledged some lapses in hiring practices in 2022 and said it had worked to address the issues, but said it "vigorously refutes allegations of employment discrimination."</p>

<p>Taiwan's Foxconn in recent years has expanded in India, where it makes iPhones and products for other smartphone brands, and has plans to move into AirPods and chipmaking.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Foxconn discriminating against married women in India?</strong></p>

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<p>Still, Foxconn withdrew in July last year from a $19.5 billion semiconductor joint venture with Indian conglomerate Vedanta, in a setback to Modi's chipmaking plans for India.</p>

<p>Modi's government ordered Tamil Nadu to provide a "detailed report" and government officials visited the Foxconn factory to question executives about hiring practices, but New Delhi has not yet released any findings.</p>

<p>Modi's post on X on Wednesday did not address any of those issues and the prime minister's office did not immediately respond to an email seeking details about the talks.</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>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Foxconn Chairman Young Liu to discuss the latter's investment plans on Wednesday, weeks after New Delhi started investigating possible discriminatory hiring practices at a Foxconn plant following a Reuters report.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Foxconn Chairman Young Liu to discuss the latter's investment plans on Wednesday, weeks after New Delhi started investigating possible discriminatory hiring practices at a Foxconn plant following a Reuters report. Modi "highlighted the wonderful opportunities India offers in futuristic sectors" to Liu at the meeting, he said in a post on X that included photos of the pair. "We also had excellent discussions on their investment plans in India in states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh," Modi wrote. Modi sees Foxconn's iPhone factory in India and Apple's expansion of its supply chain in the South Asian nation, beyond China, as potentially helping the world's most populous country move up the economic-value chain. Also read | Foxconn factory in India accused of denying jobs to married women: Report A Reuters investigation published in June found that Foxconn excluded married women from assembly jobs at its main Indian iPhone plant in Tamil Nadu state. Foxconn acknowledged some lapses in hiring practices in 2022 and said it had worked to address the issues, but said it "vigorously refutes allegations of employment discrimination." Taiwan's Foxconn in recent years has expanded in India, where it makes iPhones and products for other smartphone brands, and has plans to move into AirPods and chipmaking. Also watch | Foxconn discriminating against married women in India? × Still, Foxconn withdrew in July last year from a $19.5 billion semiconductor joint venture with Indian conglomerate Vedanta, in a setback to Modi's chipmaking plans for India. Modi's government ordered Tamil Nadu to provide a "detailed report" and government officials visited the Foxconn factory to question executives about hiring practices, but New Delhi has not yet released any findings. Modi's post on X on Wednesday did not address any of those issues and the prime minister's office did not immediately respond to an email seeking details about the talks. 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.

PM Modi shows Foxconn chairman India's 'wonderful opportunities' after hiring malpractice report

<p>As West Asia continues to be on edge days after Israel allegedly targeted former Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said&nbsp;on Thursday (August 15) that the US does not know if and when an Iran retaliatory attack against Israel might occur.</p>

<p>But Washington said it does have information that it could come with little or no notice.</p>

<p>"We have information… that an attack could come with little or no warning, and certainly could come in coming days, and we have to be ready for it," Kirby said in a phone briefing.</p>

<p>"I can’t sit here and tell you for sure that there’s been a decision [by Iran] to change their mind [about attacking Israel], and I can’t tell you for sure, if they attack, what that is going to look like, or even when it would occur," Kirby added.</p>

<p>"We know that Iran has made some preparations. We believe that should they choose to attack, they could do it with little or no notice… We don’t want it to come to that," Kirby said.</p>

<p>Earlier this week, the Biden administration said it was preparing for a potential attack on Israel by Iran and its proxies as soon as this week in retaliation for the recent assassinations of top leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Israel-Iran conflict: Israeli Defence Forces on peak alert for Iran, Hezbollah attacks</strong></p>

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<p>"We have to be prepared for what could be a significant set of attacks, which is why, again, we have increased our force posture and capabilities in the region even in just the last few days," John Kirby had said on Monday (Aug 12).</p>

<p>The Biden administration has been bracing for an attack ever since Iran publicly blamed Israel for back-to-back assassinations of top leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah at the end of July.</p>

<p>Israel claimed responsibility for killing Fouad Shukr, a top Hezbollah commander, in Lebanon, but did not confirm&nbsp;any involvement in the death of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed while visiting Tehran on July 31.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As West Asia continues to be on edge days after Israel allegedly targeted former Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said on Thursday (August 15) that the US does not know if and when an Iran retaliatory attack against Israel might occur.

As West Asia continues to be on edge days after Israel allegedly targeted former Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said on Thursday (August 15) that the US does not know if and when an Iran retaliatory attack against Israel might occur. But Washington said it does have information that it could come with little or no notice. "We have information… that an attack could come with little or no warning, and certainly could come in coming days, and we have to be ready for it," Kirby said in a phone briefing. "I can’t sit here and tell you for sure that there’s been a decision [by Iran] to change their mind [about attacking Israel], and I can’t tell you for sure, if they attack, what that is going to look like, or even when it would occur," Kirby added. "We know that Iran has made some preparations. We believe that should they choose to attack, they could do it with little or no notice… We don’t want it to come to that," Kirby said. Earlier this week, the Biden administration said it was preparing for a potential attack on Israel by Iran and its proxies as soon as this week in retaliation for the recent assassinations of top leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah. Also read | Israel-Iran conflict: Israeli Defence Forces on peak alert for Iran, Hezbollah attacks × "We have to be prepared for what could be a significant set of attacks, which is why, again, we have increased our force posture and capabilities in the region even in just the last few days," John Kirby had said on Monday (Aug 12). The Biden administration has been bracing for an attack ever since Iran publicly blamed Israel for back-to-back assassinations of top leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah at the end of July. Israel claimed responsibility for killing Fouad Shukr, a top Hezbollah commander, in Lebanon, but did not confirm any involvement in the death of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed while visiting Tehran on July 31. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran attack may come soon and with no warning, US warns

<p>A doctor in northern India's Lucknow was duped of ₹2.81 Crore ($334,776) after she was 'digitally arrested' by scammers posing as government officials, the authorities said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Digital arrest' case: What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>Dr Ruchika Tandon, an associate professor at Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS), was defrauded in a sophisticated scam involving individuals impersonating officials from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).</p>

<p>According to Dr Tandon, the ordeal began when she received a call from a man claiming to be a TRAI officer. The caller informed her that her mobile number was at risk of being deactivated due to 22 complaints alleging that she had sent harassing messages to various people.</p>

<p>The situation escalated when the caller informed Dr Tandon that a complaint had been filed against her and that she would soon receive a link to connect with a CBI officer to discuss the matter. Believing the caller, Dr Tandon followed the instructions and connected through the provided link, where she spoke with a man identifying himself as Rahul Gupta, a fake CBI officer.</p>

<p>Gupta then delivered alarming news, claiming that Dr Tandon's name had surfaced in a money laundering case and in a separate investigation involving the trafficking of women and children. He warned her that she faced imminent arrest.</p>

<p>In a further twist, the fraudsters offered a supposed way to avoid arrest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They proposed that Dr Tandon be placed under "digital arrest" through a video call, during which she would be instructed not to contact anyone. They assured her that her accounts would be examined during this period and that she would be released afterwards.</p>

<p>Under the pretence of this "digital arrest," the scammers managed to extract sensitive information about five of Dr Tandon's bank accounts. Exploiting this information, they transferred approximately ₹2.81 crore from her accounts to theirs.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The incident has raised concerns about the increasing sophistication of fraud schemes targeting unsuspecting individuals, particularly those in positions of authority.</p>

<p><b>Also watch |&nbsp;Cybersecurity report reveals rise in social media investment scams in India</b></p>

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<p>Local authorities are investigating the matter, and efforts are underway to trace the perpetrators and recover the stolen funds.</p>

<h2><strong>Can you be digitally arrested?</strong></h2>

<p>No. Nobody can be digitally arrested. WION can confirm that nowhere in the world do the law books mention digital arrest in any form.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution when receiving unsolicited calls, especially from individuals claiming to represent government agencies and to verify such claims before sharing personal information.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A doctor in northern India's Lucknow was duped of ₹2.81 Crore ($334,776) after she was 'digitally arrested' by scammers posing as government officials, the authorities said.

A doctor in northern India's Lucknow was duped of ₹2.81 Crore ($334,776) after she was 'digitally arrested' by scammers posing as government officials, the authorities said. 'Digital arrest' case: What happened? Dr Ruchika Tandon, an associate professor at Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGIMS), was defrauded in a sophisticated scam involving individuals impersonating officials from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). According to Dr Tandon, the ordeal began when she received a call from a man claiming to be a TRAI officer. The caller informed her that her mobile number was at risk of being deactivated due to 22 complaints alleging that she had sent harassing messages to various people. The situation escalated when the caller informed Dr Tandon that a complaint had been filed against her and that she would soon receive a link to connect with a CBI officer to discuss the matter. Believing the caller, Dr Tandon followed the instructions and connected through the provided link, where she spoke with a man identifying himself as Rahul Gupta, a fake CBI officer. Gupta then delivered alarming news, claiming that Dr Tandon's name had surfaced in a money laundering case and in a separate investigation involving the trafficking of women and children. He warned her that she faced imminent arrest. In a further twist, the fraudsters offered a supposed way to avoid arrest. They proposed that Dr Tandon be placed under "digital arrest" through a video call, during which she would be instructed not to contact anyone. They assured her that her accounts would be examined during this period and that she would be released afterwards. Under the pretence of this "digital arrest," the scammers managed to extract sensitive information about five of Dr Tandon's bank accounts. Exploiting this information, they transferred approximately ₹2.81 crore from her accounts to theirs. What does it mean? The incident has raised concerns about the increasing sophistication of fraud schemes targeting unsuspecting individuals, particularly those in positions of authority. Also watch | Cybersecurity report reveals rise in social media investment scams in India × Local authorities are investigating the matter, and efforts are underway to trace the perpetrators and recover the stolen funds. Can you be digitally arrested? No. Nobody can be digitally arrested. WION can confirm that nowhere in the world do the law books mention digital arrest in any form. Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution when receiving unsolicited calls, especially from individuals claiming to represent government agencies and to verify such claims before sharing personal information. (With inputs from agencies)

Can you be digitally arrested? Lucknow doctor duped of over $334K in cybercrime

<p>Security forces in northeast India's Assam state responded with a heightened state of alert after the banned outfit United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) on Thursday (August 15) delivered a bomb threat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Assam's biggest city Guwahati, the police were seen having cordoned off several roads,&nbsp;including stretches of Zoo Road, the Ulubari-Rajgarh connecting road, and Narengi. Intensive checking is reportedly underway across Assam and state borders with neighbouring Meghalaya.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Assam Tribune reported that in Narengi, just 19 km from Guwahati, near the office of the controller of defence accounts, the police reportedly summoned the bomb squad to assist in the efforts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The proscribed outfit, in a statement sent to various media houses, claimed that they had planted bombs in 19&nbsp;locations, including Jorabat, in the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The security forces swiftly swung into action across multiple districts of Assam and at the time of writing this report, a few bomb-like structures, wrapped in polythene, have been recovered from Sivasagar, Lakhimpur and Nagaon, Assam Tribune reported.</p>

<p>ULFA-I issued a press release and stated that bombs had been planted in various districts in protest against the Independence Day celebrations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Assam’s Director General of Police Gyanendra Pratap Singh said searches were carried out extensively across the state for explosive devices.</p>

<p>“At two places in Guwahati, suspicious articles were found which were opened by bomb disposal squad of police. These articles do not have ignition devices inside though some circuits and batteries are seen. The substance inside is being sent for forensic/chemical examination,” he posted on X.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-bomb-threat-two-hospitals-receive-threatening-emails-after-scare-at-schools-720628">Delhi bomb threat: Several hospitals, airports receive threatening emails after scare at schools</a></strong></p>

<p>“Similar articles have been seen at Lakhimpur, Sivasagar, Nalbari &amp; Nagaon which have been safely disposed of. In this connection, appropriate lawful investigation has been initiated,” he said.</p>

<p>Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma asked ULFA (I) chief Paresh Baruah not to create an atmosphere that will affect the flow of investments into Assam.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;More than 100 schools in Delhi-NCR receive bomb threat via e-mail</strong></p>

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<p>“Assam has 14 lakh (unemployed) youths who go to Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh to work as security guards. If Assamese youths do not stay in Assam, with whom will we make Assam independent?” he asked, referring to the ULFA (I)’s quest for sovereignty.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Security forces in northeast India's Assam state responded with a heightened state of alert after the banned outfit United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) on Thursday (August 15) delivered a bomb threat.

Security forces in northeast India's Assam state responded with a heightened state of alert after the banned outfit United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) on Thursday (August 15) delivered a bomb threat. In Assam's biggest city Guwahati, the police were seen having cordoned off several roads, including stretches of Zoo Road, the Ulubari-Rajgarh connecting road, and Narengi. Intensive checking is reportedly underway across Assam and state borders with neighbouring Meghalaya. Assam Tribune reported that in Narengi, just 19 km from Guwahati, near the office of the controller of defence accounts, the police reportedly summoned the bomb squad to assist in the efforts. The proscribed outfit, in a statement sent to various media houses, claimed that they had planted bombs in 19 locations, including Jorabat, in the city. The security forces swiftly swung into action across multiple districts of Assam and at the time of writing this report, a few bomb-like structures, wrapped in polythene, have been recovered from Sivasagar, Lakhimpur and Nagaon, Assam Tribune reported. ULFA-I issued a press release and stated that bombs had been planted in various districts in protest against the Independence Day celebrations. Assam’s Director General of Police Gyanendra Pratap Singh said searches were carried out extensively across the state for explosive devices. “At two places in Guwahati, suspicious articles were found which were opened by bomb disposal squad of police. These articles do not have ignition devices inside though some circuits and batteries are seen. The substance inside is being sent for forensic/chemical examination,” he posted on X. Also read | Delhi bomb threat: Several hospitals, airports receive threatening emails after scare at schools “Similar articles have been seen at Lakhimpur, Sivasagar, Nalbari & Nagaon which have been safely disposed of. In this connection, appropriate lawful investigation has been initiated,” he said. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma asked ULFA (I) chief Paresh Baruah not to create an atmosphere that will affect the flow of investments into Assam. Also watch | More than 100 schools in Delhi-NCR receive bomb threat via e-mail × “Assam has 14 lakh (unemployed) youths who go to Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh to work as security guards. If Assamese youths do not stay in Assam, with whom will we make Assam independent?” he asked, referring to the ULFA (I)’s quest for sovereignty. (With inputs from agencies)

Bomb scare in Assam after ULFA (I) claims it planted explosives at 19 locations

<p>A NATO air base in Geilenkirchen, Germany, about 622 km west of Berlin,&nbsp;was sealed off on Wednesday (August 14) due to a suspected sabotage incident, according to a spokesperson from the German military’s Territorial Command in Berlin.</p>

<p>This follows a similar incident at a German military base near Cologne.</p>

<p>The Cologne base, located next to the airport and housing 4,300 soldiers and 1,200 civilian employees, has also been sealed off. Soldiers at the base have been advised not to drink tap water due to potential contamination, which is being investigated as a possible act of sabotage.</p>

<p>A hole was discovered in a fence near drinking water storage facilities, the military's territorial command said on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Cologne-Wahn base, located near Cologne-Bonn airport, is home to several military and civilian facilities of the German armed forces as well as aircraft used by Chancellor Olaf Scholz and his ministers for official travel.</p>

<p>The base is also an important hub for military support for Ukraine amid ongoing war with Russia. The Ukrainian soldiers regularly fly home from there, via Poland, after receiving training in Germany, Der Spiegel reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;NATO at 75 as alliance faces uncertain future</strong></p>

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<p>Following the lockdown at the Cologne-Wahn base, the NATO site also increased its security level.</p>

<p>It however later emerged that the base was not sealed off and continued operating at full capacity, the spokesman said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The airbase is home to NATO AWACS reconnaissance aircraft.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Marcus Faber, a German lawmaker from the liberal FDP party told Bild daily that with the two incidents coming so close together "one can assume that an enemy actor wants to demonstrate his sabotage skills".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A NATO air base in Geilenkirchen, Germany, about 622 km west of Berlin, was sealed off on Wednesday (August 14) due to a suspected sabotage incident, according to a spokesperson from the German military’s Territorial Command in Berlin.

A NATO air base in Geilenkirchen, Germany, about 622 km west of Berlin, was sealed off on Wednesday (August 14) due to a suspected sabotage incident, according to a spokesperson from the German military’s Territorial Command in Berlin. This follows a similar incident at a German military base near Cologne. The Cologne base, located next to the airport and housing 4,300 soldiers and 1,200 civilian employees, has also been sealed off. Soldiers at the base have been advised not to drink tap water due to potential contamination, which is being investigated as a possible act of sabotage. A hole was discovered in a fence near drinking water storage facilities, the military's territorial command said on X. The Cologne-Wahn base, located near Cologne-Bonn airport, is home to several military and civilian facilities of the German armed forces as well as aircraft used by Chancellor Olaf Scholz and his ministers for official travel. The base is also an important hub for military support for Ukraine amid ongoing war with Russia. The Ukrainian soldiers regularly fly home from there, via Poland, after receiving training in Germany, Der Spiegel reported. Also watch | NATO at 75 as alliance faces uncertain future × Following the lockdown at the Cologne-Wahn base, the NATO site also increased its security level. It however later emerged that the base was not sealed off and continued operating at full capacity, the spokesman said. The airbase is home to NATO AWACS reconnaissance aircraft. Marcus Faber, a German lawmaker from the liberal FDP party told Bild daily that with the two incidents coming so close together "one can assume that an enemy actor wants to demonstrate his sabotage skills". (With inputs from agencies)

Military, NATO bases in Germany sealed off after suspected sabotage

<p>NASA on Wednesday (August 14) addressed a press conference on Sunita Williams and Barry 'Butch' Wilmore, the two astronauts who are currently stuck on the International Space Station (ISS). The two veteran astronauts were launched into space on June 5 for a mission expected to last eight days. But they have been in space for more than two months as the Boeing Starliner is mired over thruster problems and several helium leaks.</p>

<p>One potential option being considered by NASA to get the astronauts back to Earth is to attach them to a SpaceX Crew Dragon mission that is scheduled to launch in September, and return them to Earth with that mission in February 2025.</p>

<p>That plan would mean the astronauts would spend more than eight months – rather than eight days – aboard the International Space Station (ISS).</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Boeing Curse: Sunita Williams' return to earth pushed to 2025?</strong></p>

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<p>If the SpaceX Crew Dragon is used, the Boeing Starliner craft would be returned to Earth without any crew, under computer control.</p>

<p>Here's a summary of what NASA said:</p>

<p>1. NASA claimed that both astronauts are "doing great" and have been keeping busy on the International Space Station. Both veterans are reportedly mentally and physically prepared for unexpected turns on a space mission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>2. The US space agency added that discussions are now being done on whether the crew can return on the Boeing Starliner, the spacecraft that they used to fly there, or would have to return on a SpaceX vehicle.&nbsp;</p>

<p>3. The two could remain in space for eight months if they do have to wait to return on a SpaceX flight. One issue is that of the space suits. The ones Sunita and Buch are wearing are not fit for use on a SpaceX flight, and they would have to return unsuited in that case which would exacerbate the risks to their way back to Earth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>4. NASA said it still has confidence in the Starliner craft, and that it could still be used to return home in case of an emergency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>5. A decision will be made on the astronaut's return by the end of August, though there's no sharp cut-off date.</p>


NASA on Wednesday (August 14) addressed a press conference on Sunita Williams and Barry 'Butch' Wilmore, the two astronauts who are currently stuck on the International Space Station (ISS).

NASA on Wednesday (August 14) addressed a press conference on Sunita Williams and Barry 'Butch' Wilmore, the two astronauts who are currently stuck on the International Space Station (ISS). The two veteran astronauts were launched into space on June 5 for a mission expected to last eight days. But they have been in space for more than two months as the Boeing Starliner is mired over thruster problems and several helium leaks. One potential option being considered by NASA to get the astronauts back to Earth is to attach them to a SpaceX Crew Dragon mission that is scheduled to launch in September, and return them to Earth with that mission in February 2025. That plan would mean the astronauts would spend more than eight months – rather than eight days – aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Also watch | Boeing Curse: Sunita Williams' return to earth pushed to 2025? × If the SpaceX Crew Dragon is used, the Boeing Starliner craft would be returned to Earth without any crew, under computer control. Here's a summary of what NASA said: 1. NASA claimed that both astronauts are "doing great" and have been keeping busy on the International Space Station. Both veterans are reportedly mentally and physically prepared for unexpected turns on a space mission. 2. The US space agency added that discussions are now being done on whether the crew can return on the Boeing Starliner, the spacecraft that they used to fly there, or would have to return on a SpaceX vehicle. 3. The two could remain in space for eight months if they do have to wait to return on a SpaceX flight. One issue is that of the space suits. The ones Sunita and Buch are wearing are not fit for use on a SpaceX flight, and they would have to return unsuited in that case which would exacerbate the risks to their way back to Earth. 4. NASA said it still has confidence in the Starliner craft, and that it could still be used to return home in case of an emergency. 5. A decision will be made on the astronaut's return by the end of August, though there's no sharp cut-off date.

Sunita Williams, Buch Wilmore could be stuck in space for eight months: NASA

<p>Japan on Thursday ended its call for higher-than-usual risks of a major earthquake, one week after a strong tremor on the edge of the Nankai Trough seabed zone caused the government to issue its first-ever megaquake advisory.</p>

<p>Citizens can now return to normal life as no abnormalities were observed in the seismic activity of the Nankai Trough located along Japan's Pacific coast in the past week, said Yoshifumi Matsumura, the state minister for disaster management.</p>

<p>A Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) expert panel on Aug. 8 released an advisory that there was a "relatively higher chance" of a Nankai Trough megaquake as powerful as magnitude 9, after a magnitude-7.1 quake hit the country's southwest.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Japan earthquake: Japan's nuclear plants on alert after quake warning</strong></p>

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<p>While the advisory was not a definitive prediction, the government asked residents of a wide range of western and central regions to review evacuation procedures in case of severe earthquake and tsunami disasters.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Fumio Kishida cancelled a diplomatic tour to Central Asia and Mongolia over the weekend to prioritise disaster management.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-hit-by-another-60-magnitude-earthquake-as-death-toll-from-new-years-day-quake-crosses-200-mark-678217">Japan hit by another 6.0-magnitude earthquake as death toll from New Year’s Day quake crosses 200-mark</a></strong></p>

<p>On August&nbsp;9, a magnitude-5.3 earthquake hit eastern Japan near Tokyo, but its epicentre was located outside of the Nankai Trough zone where the JMA signalled the chance of a megaquake, and the damage was small as only three mild injuries were reported.</p>

<p>Central Japan Railway ended its week-long precaution of reducing the speed of trains running near coastal areas, although the risk of another natural disaster, approaching Typhoon Ampil, forced the company to cancel high-speed trains connecting Tokyo and Nagoya on Friday.</p>

<p>Japan has predicted a 70 per cent-80 per cent&nbsp;chance of a Nankai Trough megaquake occurring in the next 30 years.</p>

<p>The government's worst-case scenario has estimated that a Nankai Trough megaquake and subsequent tsunami disaster could kill 323,000 people, destroy 2.38 million buildings and cause 220 trillion yen ($1.50 trillion) of economic damage.</p>

<p>Japan is one of the world's most earthquake-prone countries. More than 15,000 people were killed in a magnitude 9 quake in 2011 that triggered a devastating tsunami and the triple reactor meltdowns at a nuclear power plant in northeast Japan.</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>


Japan on Thursday ended its call for higher-than-usual risks of a major earthquake, one week after a strong tremor on the edge of the Nankai Trough seabed zone caused the government to issue its first-ever megaquake advisory.

Japan on Thursday ended its call for higher-than-usual risks of a major earthquake, one week after a strong tremor on the edge of the Nankai Trough seabed zone caused the government to issue its first-ever megaquake advisory. Citizens can now return to normal life as no abnormalities were observed in the seismic activity of the Nankai Trough located along Japan's Pacific coast in the past week, said Yoshifumi Matsumura, the state minister for disaster management. A Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) expert panel on Aug. 8 released an advisory that there was a "relatively higher chance" of a Nankai Trough megaquake as powerful as magnitude 9, after a magnitude-7.1 quake hit the country's southwest. Also watch | Japan earthquake: Japan's nuclear plants on alert after quake warning × While the advisory was not a definitive prediction, the government asked residents of a wide range of western and central regions to review evacuation procedures in case of severe earthquake and tsunami disasters. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida cancelled a diplomatic tour to Central Asia and Mongolia over the weekend to prioritise disaster management. Also read | Japan hit by another 6.0-magnitude earthquake as death toll from New Year’s Day quake crosses 200-mark On August 9, a magnitude-5.3 earthquake hit eastern Japan near Tokyo, but its epicentre was located outside of the Nankai Trough zone where the JMA signalled the chance of a megaquake, and the damage was small as only three mild injuries were reported. Central Japan Railway ended its week-long precaution of reducing the speed of trains running near coastal areas, although the risk of another natural disaster, approaching Typhoon Ampil, forced the company to cancel high-speed trains connecting Tokyo and Nagoya on Friday. Japan has predicted a 70 per cent-80 per cent chance of a Nankai Trough megaquake occurring in the next 30 years. The government's worst-case scenario has estimated that a Nankai Trough megaquake and subsequent tsunami disaster could kill 323,000 people, destroy 2.38 million buildings and cause 220 trillion yen ($1.50 trillion) of economic damage. Japan is one of the world's most earthquake-prone countries. More than 15,000 people were killed in a magnitude 9 quake in 2011 that triggered a devastating tsunami and the triple reactor meltdowns at a nuclear power plant in northeast Japan. 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.

Japan lifts megaquake warning that feared magnitude 9 earthquake

<p>The Biden administration this week has negotiated deals with major pharmaceutical companies to lower the prices of 10 of Medicare’s most widely used and expensive drugs. While federal officials have yet to disclose the exact new prices, the administration projections cited by the Associated Press claim that US taxpayers will save approximately $6 billion annually.</p>

<p>These estimates, however, are based on earlier projections.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Despite the lack of immediate transparency, the expected price reductions are likely to benefit millions of older Americans who rely on these drugs for managing conditions such as diabetes, blood cancer, heart failure, and blood clots.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Drug overdose death rates rising in US, says study</strong></p>

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<p>This deal marks a crucial milestone for the Medicare programme, which serves over 67 million older and disabled Americans. For decades, the federal government was prohibited from negotiating drug prices with pharmaceutical companies, a common practice among private insurers.</p>

<p>White House adviser Neera Tanden said: "This meant that drug companies could basically charge whatever they want for life-saving treatments people rely on, and all Americans paid the price."</p>

<h2><strong>Which drug prices will be lowered?</strong></h2>

<p>Among the drugs included in the negotiations are the blood thinners Xarelto and Eliquis and the diabetes medications Jardiance and Januvia. In 2023, Medicare spent $50 billion on these medications alone.</p>

<p>Vice President Kamala Harris, who cast the tie-breaking vote to pass the law enabling these negotiations, will play a key role in promoting the deal as part of her presidential campaign. She and President Joe Biden are scheduled to announce the new drug prices together on Thursday (August 15).</p>

<h2><strong>But there is a catch</strong></h2>

<p>While some pharmaceutical executives have suggested that the negotiations may not significantly impact their profits, the final drug prices are set to be released by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services later on Thursday. However, these new prices will not take effect until 2026.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Biden administration this week has negotiated deals with major pharmaceutical companies to lower the prices of 10 of Medicare’s most widely used and expensive drugs.

The Biden administration this week has negotiated deals with major pharmaceutical companies to lower the prices of 10 of Medicare’s most widely used and expensive drugs. While federal officials have yet to disclose the exact new prices, the administration projections cited by the Associated Press claim that US taxpayers will save approximately $6 billion annually. These estimates, however, are based on earlier projections. What does it mean? Despite the lack of immediate transparency, the expected price reductions are likely to benefit millions of older Americans who rely on these drugs for managing conditions such as diabetes, blood cancer, heart failure, and blood clots. Also watch | Drug overdose death rates rising in US, says study × This deal marks a crucial milestone for the Medicare programme, which serves over 67 million older and disabled Americans. For decades, the federal government was prohibited from negotiating drug prices with pharmaceutical companies, a common practice among private insurers. White House adviser Neera Tanden said: "This meant that drug companies could basically charge whatever they want for life-saving treatments people rely on, and all Americans paid the price." Which drug prices will be lowered? Among the drugs included in the negotiations are the blood thinners Xarelto and Eliquis and the diabetes medications Jardiance and Januvia. In 2023, Medicare spent $50 billion on these medications alone. Vice President Kamala Harris, who cast the tie-breaking vote to pass the law enabling these negotiations, will play a key role in promoting the deal as part of her presidential campaign. She and President Joe Biden are scheduled to announce the new drug prices together on Thursday (August 15). But there is a catch While some pharmaceutical executives have suggested that the negotiations may not significantly impact their profits, the final drug prices are set to be released by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services later on Thursday. However, these new prices will not take effect until 2026. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden, Harris strike major pharma deal to cut Medicare drug prices

<p>China on Thursday (August 15) announced that it will control the export of rare antimony metals, ores and oxides. The export control will be effective from September 15, 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The world's second-largest economy accounted for nearly half of total antimony production last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an online statement on Thursday (August 15), the Chinese Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs said the move was set to safeguard national security, defend its interests and also fulfil its non-proliferation obligations.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-discovers-huge-deposits-of-lithium-critical-for-electric-mobility-560432">India discovers huge deposits of Lithium critical for electric mobility</a></strong></p>

<p>"It is a common international practice to implement export controls on items related to antimony and superhard materials," a spokesperson for the Chinese commerce ministry was quoted as saying by the South China Morning Post. The spokesperson&nbsp;added that the ban does not target any specific country or region and that exports would be permitted if they comply with regulations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We oppose any country or region using controlled items from China to engage in activities that harm China’s national sovereignty, security, and development interests," the spokesperson said.</p>

<p>The latest ban comes on top of a ban already in place on exporting technology to extract and separate critical materials.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Japan becomes second Quad partner to sign semiconductor pact with India</strong></p>

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<p>Beijing tightened exports of some graphite products last December.</p>

<p>China also imposed restrictions on exports of gallium and germanium products widely used in the semiconductor industry from last August.</p>

<h2><strong>What is antimony used for?</strong></h2>

<p>Common applications of antimony metal include its use as a hardener in lead for storage batteries, in alloys with lead and tin to improve properties for solders and bullets, as well as in semiconductor devices.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Antimony trioxide is the most important of the antimony compounds which are primarily used in flame-retardant formulations.</p>

<p>The United States considers antimony a mineral critical to economic and national security, as per the US International Trade Commission.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


China on Thursday (August 15) announced that it will control the export of rare antimony metals, ores and oxides. The export control will be effective from September 15, 2024.

China on Thursday (August 15) announced that it will control the export of rare antimony metals, ores and oxides. The export control will be effective from September 15, 2024. The world's second-largest economy accounted for nearly half of total antimony production last year. In an online statement on Thursday (August 15), the Chinese Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs said the move was set to safeguard national security, defend its interests and also fulfil its non-proliferation obligations. Also read | India discovers huge deposits of Lithium critical for electric mobility "It is a common international practice to implement export controls on items related to antimony and superhard materials," a spokesperson for the Chinese commerce ministry was quoted as saying by the South China Morning Post. The spokesperson added that the ban does not target any specific country or region and that exports would be permitted if they comply with regulations. "We oppose any country or region using controlled items from China to engage in activities that harm China’s national sovereignty, security, and development interests," the spokesperson said. The latest ban comes on top of a ban already in place on exporting technology to extract and separate critical materials. Also watch | Japan becomes second Quad partner to sign semiconductor pact with India × Beijing tightened exports of some graphite products last December. China also imposed restrictions on exports of gallium and germanium products widely used in the semiconductor industry from last August. What is antimony used for? Common applications of antimony metal include its use as a hardener in lead for storage batteries, in alloys with lead and tin to improve properties for solders and bullets, as well as in semiconductor devices. Antimony trioxide is the most important of the antimony compounds which are primarily used in flame-retardant formulations. The United States considers antimony a mineral critical to economic and national security, as per the US International Trade Commission. (With inputs from agencies)

China imposes export ban on rare mineral critical for electric mobility

<p>The Federation of Resident Doctors' Association (FORDA) on Tuesday (August 13) called off their strike following a meeting with JP Nadda, the union minister for health affairs in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government.</p>

<p>The demands put forth by the FORDA were reportedly accepted by the Union government.</p>

<p>"All demands as written in the letter accepted by Health minister in a meeting that just ended," it said.</p>

<p>The FORDA will now participate&nbsp;in a newly formed committee focused on the Central Healthcare Protection Act. With such consensus&nbsp;in place, FORDA has announced that all medical services will resume normal operations starting August 14&nbsp;morning.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-doctor-rape-murder-case-doctors-nationwide-protest-cripples-opd-services-top-updates-749671">Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Doctors' nationwide protest cripples OPD services</a></strong></p>

<p>The ongoing strike in hospitals across the Indian state of&nbsp;West Bengal, sparked by the death of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, took a significant turn today as the Calcutta High Court intervened in the case and ordered a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).</p>

<p>The court's directive comes after mounting pressure from junior doctors who have been demanding justice and calling for an immediate resolution to the case.</p>

<p>The incident, which was initially reported as a suicide, has drawn severe criticism over its handling by state authorities.</p>

<p>In a scathing judgement, the high court condemned the incident as "gruesome" and expressed concern over alleged attempts to cover it up. The court also ordered that all relevant documents related to the case be transferred to the CBI without delay.</p>

<p><b>Also watch |&nbsp;Kolkata rape-murder case: Doctors protest across several parts of India</b></p>

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<p>The controversy deepened earlier when the college's principal faced backlash for suggesting that the victim, who was allegedly raped and murdered, was suffering from psychosis, effectively blaming her for her own death.</p>

<p>As the probe moves forward, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victim and restoring normalcy in the state’s healthcare system.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Federation of Resident Doctors' Association (FORDA) on Tuesday (August 13) called off their strike following a meeting with JP Nadda, the union minister for health affairs in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government.

The Federation of Resident Doctors' Association (FORDA) on Tuesday (August 13) called off their strike following a meeting with JP Nadda, the union minister for health affairs in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. The demands put forth by the FORDA were reportedly accepted by the Union government. "All demands as written in the letter accepted by Health minister in a meeting that just ended," it said. The FORDA will now participate in a newly formed committee focused on the Central Healthcare Protection Act. With such consensus in place, FORDA has announced that all medical services will resume normal operations starting August 14 morning. Also read | Kolkata doctor rape-murder case: Doctors' nationwide protest cripples OPD services The ongoing strike in hospitals across the Indian state of West Bengal, sparked by the death of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, took a significant turn today as the Calcutta High Court intervened in the case and ordered a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The court's directive comes after mounting pressure from junior doctors who have been demanding justice and calling for an immediate resolution to the case. The incident, which was initially reported as a suicide, has drawn severe criticism over its handling by state authorities. In a scathing judgement, the high court condemned the incident as "gruesome" and expressed concern over alleged attempts to cover it up. The court also ordered that all relevant documents related to the case be transferred to the CBI without delay. Also watch | Kolkata rape-murder case: Doctors protest across several parts of India × The controversy deepened earlier when the college's principal faced backlash for suggesting that the victim, who was allegedly raped and murdered, was suffering from psychosis, effectively blaming her for her own death. As the probe moves forward, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victim and restoring normalcy in the state’s healthcare system. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian doctors end strike over Kolkata medic's sexual assault and murder

<p>A couple from northern India's Uttar Pradesh, identified as Saurabh Babbar (35) and his wife Mona, allegedly died by suicide in Uttarakhand's Haridwar, due to mounting financial debts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident came to light after the couple sent a WhatsApp message to their family on August 10,&nbsp;describing their intent and decision for self-harm, according to local police.</p>

<p>The husband's body was found on the banks of the Ganga River near Jamalpur Khurd village in the Ranipur Kotwali area on Monday (August 12) morning. The efforts to locate his wife were ongoing at the time of filing this report.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-woman-dies-by-suicide-over-body-shaming-bullying-and-harassment-at-workplace-741815">Indian woman dies by suicide over body-shaming, bullying and harassment at workplace</a></strong></p>

<p>Saurabh Babbar, a resident of Kishanpura Kotwali Nagar in Saharanpur district, was a bullion trader and the owner of 'Sai Jewelers' in Saharanpur. He also worked as a kitty collector but had reportedly accumulated significant debt which he struggled to repay, according to reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The financial burden allegedly led the couple to travel to Haridwar with the intent of ending their lives near Har Ki Pauri, a prominent ghat on the Ganga River.</p>

<p>Local residents discovered Saurabh Babbar's body at around 9:30 am (local time), stuck in a swamp along the riverbank. They informed the police who arrived at the scene and recovered the body. Identification was made through documents found in his wallet which also contained a mobile phone.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India: Woman dies by suicide after husband loses $180,000 in betting in Karnataka</strong></p>

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<p>After receiving the suicide note, the couple's family immediately contacted Haridwar police, following which a search operation was launched. The police have since been investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths.</p>

<p>Ranipur Kotwali in-charge Vijay Singh said that Babbar's body has been sent to the mortuary for a post-mortem examination. The investigation into the incident continues.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>Get help &amp; support for suicide</em></p>

<p><em>If you or someone you know wants help for mental well-being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. You can contact local authorities and also encourage the person to contact a&nbsp;suicide prevention hotline.&nbsp;WION does not make any recommendations.</em></p>


A couple from northern India's Uttar Pradesh, identified as Saurabh Babbar (35) and his wife Mona, allegedly died by suicide in Uttarakhand's Haridwar, due to mounting financial debts.

A couple from northern India's Uttar Pradesh, identified as Saurabh Babbar (35) and his wife Mona, allegedly died by suicide in Uttarakhand's Haridwar, due to mounting financial debts. The incident came to light after the couple sent a WhatsApp message to their family on August 10, describing their intent and decision for self-harm, according to local police. The husband's body was found on the banks of the Ganga River near Jamalpur Khurd village in the Ranipur Kotwali area on Monday (August 12) morning. The efforts to locate his wife were ongoing at the time of filing this report. Also read | Indian woman dies by suicide over body-shaming, bullying and harassment at workplace Saurabh Babbar, a resident of Kishanpura Kotwali Nagar in Saharanpur district, was a bullion trader and the owner of 'Sai Jewelers' in Saharanpur. He also worked as a kitty collector but had reportedly accumulated significant debt which he struggled to repay, according to reports. The financial burden allegedly led the couple to travel to Haridwar with the intent of ending their lives near Har Ki Pauri, a prominent ghat on the Ganga River. Local residents discovered Saurabh Babbar's body at around 9:30 am (local time), stuck in a swamp along the riverbank. They informed the police who arrived at the scene and recovered the body. Identification was made through documents found in his wallet which also contained a mobile phone. Also watch | India: Woman dies by suicide after husband loses $180,000 in betting in Karnataka × After receiving the suicide note, the couple's family immediately contacted Haridwar police, following which a search operation was launched. The police have since been investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Ranipur Kotwali in-charge Vijay Singh said that Babbar's body has been sent to the mortuary for a post-mortem examination. The investigation into the incident continues. (With inputs from agencies) Get help & support for suicide If you or someone you know wants help for mental well-being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. You can contact local authorities and also encourage the person to contact a suicide prevention hotline. WION does not make any recommendations.

Uttar Pradesh debt-ridden couple commits suicide in Haridwar

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Mukul Sharma

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