Gurpurab 2023: Sikhism's Sacred Kada Prasad—Between Faith and Divinity

Gurpurab is celebrated to mark the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikh faith. 


It is a special type of sweet that is prepared and distributed in Gurdwaras worldwide, especially on Gurpurab. The term 'Prasad' means an offering made to a deity as a gesture of devotion.

Kada Prasad: The Significance of Cherished Tradition


Beyond its delectable taste, Kada Prasad embodies the core principles of Sikhism: equality, humility and community service.

On the day of Gurpurab, Kada Prasad is considered a blessed and consecrated offering to commemorate the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev.

The community effort behind making of Kada Prasad

Made with equal parts of whole wheat flour, sugar and ghee, Kada Prasad is prepared through a community effort, with volunteers making large quantities to share with the sangat (congregation). The process reflects the values of Sikhism in terms of fostering of a sense of unity.


Between faith of Sikhism and towards divinity of the faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev, Kada Prasad is held sacred.

Meet Lieutenant General J.S. Aurora: The 'Liberator of Bangladesh'

Lieutenant General J.S. Aurora was among the ones who were at the forefront of India’s warcraft against Pakistan at the time of Bangladesh’s creation in 1971. Led by Army chief General Sam Manekshaw, Aurora avoided a protracted war with Pakistan on the Eastern Front. 

Jagjit Singh Aurora was born in 1916 in Kalle Gujjran, Jhelum district, now in Pakistan into a middle-class Sikh family. In 1939, he was commissioned into the 1st battalion of the 2nd Punjab Regiment and commanded it for eight years in Jammu and Kashmir. As Lieutenant General, he led Indian Army's Eastern Command during Bangladesh Liberation War.

Together with Lt. Gen. JFR Jacob, Eastern Command's Chief of Staff, General Aurora pursued the strategy of 'leaving the highways for the byways' to cut off supply lines of Pakistani side. Infantry battalions pushed the element of surprise. Dhaka fell in 12 days.

In the iconic moment portrayed in history books, General J.S. Aurora is seen looking towards his defeated Pakistani foe Lt. Gen. A.A.K. Niazi, but there is no victorious sigh on his face. General Aurora’s face shows just the matter-of-fact look of a soldier who has accomplished his mission: Pakistan’s surrender. 

Even once during the 12-day war against tyrannical Pakistani Army, General Aurora did not forsake his 18-round of Golf inside Fort Williams headquarters in Calcutta, before flying to Dhaka to accept the instrument of surrender. General Aurora was an avid reader of military history. 

General Aurora retired with glorious accolade as ‘Liberator of Bangladesh’ in 1973. He worked for rehabilitation of the victims of 1984 anti-Sikh pogrom after Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s assassination. He served as Rajya Sabha MP between 1986 and 1992. He breathed his last on May 5, 2005. 

The creation of Bangladesh in 1971 had Lieutenant General J.S. Aurora among the ones who were at the centre of India's warcraft against Pakistan.

PM Modi’s 'Tejas Moment' had 'Sense of Pride'

https://images1.wionews.com/video/wion/WhatsApp Video 2023-11-26 at 11-1700978822499.mp4

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a sortie in the dual-seat Tejas trainer on Nov 25. It was a brand new Tejas handed over to the Indian Air Force. 

https://images1.wionews.com/video/wion/WhatsApp Video 2023-11-26 at 11-1700979120380.mp4

The Prime Minister taking a sortie shows the confidence government has on the safety of this particular aircraft.

The IAF has 32 Tejas fighter jets and two squadrons are operational from the Sulur airbase in Tamil Nadu state.

https://images1.wionews.com/video/wion/WhatsApp Video 2023-11-26 at 11-1700979393123.mp4

IAF is set to have a total of 123 Tejas aircraft in the coming years. 

India’s Tejas Moment for Self-Reliance in Defence

Tejas is at the centre of Modi administration’s push for self-reliance in defence sector. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) recently signed a deal with the US-based General Electric for manufacturing jet engines in India.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a sortie in the dual-seat Tejas trainer on Nov 25

<p>A 26-year-old heiress to a South Florida car dealership fortune has set the internet ablaze with the sheer opulence of her five-day wedding in Paris. The wedding of Madelaine Brockway and her long-time beau Jacob LaGrone is being dubbed as the "wedding of the century".</p>

<p>The celebration included an intimate Maroon 5 concert and an overnight stay at the iconic Palace of Versailles. The opulent flamboyance appeared to dwarf down the great Indian weddings of the century. While the Brockway-LaGrone wedding was indeed lavish, users on social media questioned if it indeed made it a wedding of significance.</p>

<h2><strong>'Wedding of the century' on social media</strong></h2>

<p>Brockway meticulously documented the grand affair on social media, with her videos and images quickly going viral.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-valley-emerging-as-favourite-wedding-destination-in-india-648077">Kashmir Valley emerging as favourite wedding destination in India</a></strong></p>

<p>The extravagant nuptials, which took place on November 18, came with a staggering price tag of $59 million, approximately ₹4,91,55,70,250, leaving netizens astonished and intrigued by the lavish expenditure.</p>

<h2><strong>Who paid for the wedding?</strong></h2>

<p>This question was asked by many who saw the wedding spectacle on social media, with many speculating that Brockway's parents footed the bill.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her father, Bob Brockway, serves as the CEO and Chairman of Ussery Automotive Group, while her mother, Paula Brockway, holds the position of Vice President at the Coral Gables branch of Mercedes Benz in Florida.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Business worth $63 bn anticipated in upcoming wedding season</strong></p>

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<p>Ussery Automotive Group gained attention in August for a lucrative $150 million profit from the sale of two of its locations, the Daily Mail reported.</p>

<h2><strong>About the wedding festivities</strong></h2>

<p>The festivities kicked off with a bachelorette week at the luxurious Amangiri resort in Canyon Point, Utah, followed by a jet-setting trip to Paris. The couple enjoyed a private tour of the Palace of Versailles and lodged at the prestigious Le Grand Contrôle hotel within the Palace, where rooms range from $2,400 to $14,200 per night.</p>

<p>The grandeur continued with a rehearsal dinner at the Paris Opera House, adorned with hundreds of flowers for the special occasion. While the exact location of the wedding remains undisclosed, glimpses from guest-shared videos suggest an outdoor garden setting with panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower.</p>

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<p>As news of the lavish affair spread, social media users expressed a spectrum of opinions. Some found it "dreamy," while others criticised it as a "royal waste of money." One user questioned the desire for anonymity, stating, "You have all the money in the world, and nobody knows who you are? You've won. Why ruin that?"&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A 26-year-old heiress to a South Florida car dealership fortune has set the internet ablaze with the sheer opulence of her five-day wedding in Paris. The wedding of Madelaine Brockway and her long-time beau Jacob LaGrone is being dubbed as the "wedding of the century".

A 26-year-old heiress to a South Florida car dealership fortune has set the internet ablaze with the sheer opulence of her five-day wedding in Paris. The wedding of Madelaine Brockway and her long-time beau Jacob LaGrone is being dubbed as the "wedding of the century". The celebration included an intimate Maroon 5 concert and an overnight stay at the iconic Palace of Versailles. The opulent flamboyance appeared to dwarf down the great Indian weddings of the century. While the Brockway-LaGrone wedding was indeed lavish, users on social media questioned if it indeed made it a wedding of significance. 'Wedding of the century' on social media Brockway meticulously documented the grand affair on social media, with her videos and images quickly going viral. Also read | Kashmir Valley emerging as favourite wedding destination in India The extravagant nuptials, which took place on November 18, came with a staggering price tag of $59 million, approximately ₹4,91,55,70,250, leaving netizens astonished and intrigued by the lavish expenditure. Who paid for the wedding? This question was asked by many who saw the wedding spectacle on social media, with many speculating that Brockway's parents footed the bill. Her father, Bob Brockway, serves as the CEO and Chairman of Ussery Automotive Group, while her mother, Paula Brockway, holds the position of Vice President at the Coral Gables branch of Mercedes Benz in Florida. Also watch | Business worth $63 bn anticipated in upcoming wedding season × Ussery Automotive Group gained attention in August for a lucrative $150 million profit from the sale of two of its locations, the Daily Mail reported. About the wedding festivities The festivities kicked off with a bachelorette week at the luxurious Amangiri resort in Canyon Point, Utah, followed by a jet-setting trip to Paris. The couple enjoyed a private tour of the Palace of Versailles and lodged at the prestigious Le Grand Contrôle hotel within the Palace, where rooms range from $2,400 to $14,200 per night. The grandeur continued with a rehearsal dinner at the Paris Opera House, adorned with hundreds of flowers for the special occasion. While the exact location of the wedding remains undisclosed, glimpses from guest-shared videos suggest an outdoor garden setting with panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Lake Como Wedding Planner (@lakecomoweddings) × As news of the lavish affair spread, social media users expressed a spectrum of opinions. Some found it "dreamy," while others criticised it as a "royal waste of money." One user questioned the desire for anonymity, stating, "You have all the money in the world, and nobody knows who you are? You've won. Why ruin that?" (With inputs from agencies)

Why internet is going gaga over this $59mn 'wedding of the century' in Paris

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration has instructed all states and union territories to stay on alert against viral fever and respiratory diseases in the wake of evolving health situation in China and consequent crisis posed by influenza outbreak which is specifically impacting the children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest instruction comes two days after New Delhi first said that it is 'closely monitoring' China's influenza outbreak.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'No need to panic' but what is different this time?</strong></h2>

<p>New Delhi has asked states to monitor all types of fever with specific focus on fever in children and adolescents. The states have also been asked to review hospital preparedness in terms of the availability of beds, masks, oxygen cylinders, antibiotics and ventilators.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-another-pneumonia-epidemic-alarms-who-nearly-four-years-since-covid-was-first-detected-661753">China: Another pneumonia 'epidemic' alarms WHO nearly four years since Covid was first detected</a></strong></p>

<p>According to union health ministry, the last two months of the year entail the season of viral fever, and hence there are more cases of fever and pneumonia in the hospitals this time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry added that there is nothing to panic about but it is important to remain alert.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-closely-monitoring-chinas-influenza-outbreak-amid-mild-covid-scare-662356">India is 'closely monitoring' China's influenza outbreak amid mild Covid scare</a></strong></p>

<p>Besides, the top cause of concern is that the influenza outbreak in China has been linked to the country's lifting of Covid restrictions 11 months ago. This is the first full winter in China since 2020 when the Covid restrictions are no longer in place.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Influenza outbreak in China</strong></h2>

<p>China has since specified the outbreak as that of Influenza A virus subtype H9N2. It was first reported in 1988 and a total of 86 cases of human infection with H9N2 viruses were reported until recent outbreak in China.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;China state council says influenza will peak this winter</strong></p>

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<p>"There is low risk to India from both the avian influenza case reported from China as well as the clusters of respiratory illness," the health ministry had said previously on Nov 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The overall risk assessment by WHO indicates a low probability of human to human spread and low case fatality rate among human cases of H9N2 reported to WHO so far," it had added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides, China's health ministry on Sunday (November 26) urged local authorities to increase the number of fever clinics amid surge in respiratory illnesses.<br />
<br />
The outbreak which made the Chinese hospitals even in urban centres such as Beijing, "overwhelmed with sick children", raised alarm in the World Health Organization. But the risk assessment so far suggests that the risk posed by the outbreak does not warrant a public health response that came in the wake to combat Covid pandemic globally.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration has instructed all states and union territories to stay on alert against viral fever and respiratory diseases in the wake of evolving health situation in China and consequent crisis posed by influenza outbreak which is specifically impacting the children.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration has instructed all states and union territories to stay on alert against viral fever and respiratory diseases in the wake of evolving health situation in China and consequent crisis posed by influenza outbreak which is specifically impacting the children. The latest instruction comes two days after New Delhi first said that it is 'closely monitoring' China's influenza outbreak. 'No need to panic' but what is different this time? New Delhi has asked states to monitor all types of fever with specific focus on fever in children and adolescents. The states have also been asked to review hospital preparedness in terms of the availability of beds, masks, oxygen cylinders, antibiotics and ventilators. Also read | China: Another pneumonia 'epidemic' alarms WHO nearly four years since Covid was first detected According to union health ministry, the last two months of the year entail the season of viral fever, and hence there are more cases of fever and pneumonia in the hospitals this time. The ministry added that there is nothing to panic about but it is important to remain alert. Also read | India is 'closely monitoring' China's influenza outbreak amid mild Covid scare Besides, the top cause of concern is that the influenza outbreak in China has been linked to the country's lifting of Covid restrictions 11 months ago. This is the first full winter in China since 2020 when the Covid restrictions are no longer in place. Influenza outbreak in China China has since specified the outbreak as that of Influenza A virus subtype H9N2. It was first reported in 1988 and a total of 86 cases of human infection with H9N2 viruses were reported until recent outbreak in China. Also watch | China state council says influenza will peak this winter × "There is low risk to India from both the avian influenza case reported from China as well as the clusters of respiratory illness," the health ministry had said previously on Nov 24. "The overall risk assessment by WHO indicates a low probability of human to human spread and low case fatality rate among human cases of H9N2 reported to WHO so far," it had added. Besides, China's health ministry on Sunday (November 26) urged local authorities to increase the number of fever clinics amid surge in respiratory illnesses. The outbreak which made the Chinese hospitals even in urban centres such as Beijing, "overwhelmed with sick children", raised alarm in the World Health Organization. But the risk assessment so far suggests that the risk posed by the outbreak does not warrant a public health response that came in the wake to combat Covid pandemic globally. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Centre asks states, UTs to be on alert after China's influenza outbreak

<p>A museum in the United Kingdom has recently rebranded Roman emperor Elagabalus as a transgender person. The North Hertfordshire Museum in Hitchens has cited classical texts, including purported remarks by the emperor himself such as "call me not Lord, for I am a Lady".</p>

<p>The above remark was reportedly recorded by Roman historian Cassius Dio.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The museum has now opted to use she/her pronouns when referring to Elagabalus, who reigned from 218 to 222 AD.</p>

<h2><strong>Sensitisation towards LGBTQ+ community: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Keith Hoskins, the executive member for Enterprise and Arts at North Herts Council, which is involved in running the museum, said: "We try to be sensitive to identifying pronouns for people in the past, as we are for people in the present, it is only polite and respectful."</p>

<p>But experts are divided.</p>

<p>Mary Beard, author of "Emperor of Rome: Ruling the Ancient Roman World," told TIME magazine: “This is as tricky [an] area in the ancient world as it is now. What is said by Romans about Elagabalus powerfully reminds us that debates about the boundaries between male and female go back thousands of years (we are not the first generation to have those debates),”</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;WION Dispatch: Transgender tycoon buys Miss Universe contest</strong></p>

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<p>The museum's LGBTQ+ collection features a coin of Elagabalus, adding another dimension to their decision.</p>

<p>Elagabalus, known for marrying both men and women, presents a historical enigma regarding pronoun usage, with conflicting interpretations of Dio's writings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some experts argue that Dio's references to Elagabalus wearing makeup and wigs could have been attempts to undermine the emperor's rule rather than him being a transgender person.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-hospital-inaugurates-indias-first-dedicated-opd-for-transgender-community-636964">Delhi hospital inaugurates India's first dedicated OPD for transgender community</a></strong></p>

<p>But the museum has underscored Elagabalus's explicit preference for she/her pronouns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides, experts also urge caution to add that while ancient debates on gender boundaries existed, modern categories should not be indiscriminately applied to the complexities of the ancient world.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A museum in the United Kingdom has recently rebranded Roman emperor Elagabalus as a transgender person. The North Hertfordshire Museum in Hitchens has cited classical texts, including purported remarks by the emperor himself such as "call me not Lord, for I am a Lady".

A museum in the United Kingdom has recently rebranded Roman emperor Elagabalus as a transgender person. The North Hertfordshire Museum in Hitchens has cited classical texts, including purported remarks by the emperor himself such as "call me not Lord, for I am a Lady". The above remark was reportedly recorded by Roman historian Cassius Dio. The museum has now opted to use she/her pronouns when referring to Elagabalus, who reigned from 218 to 222 AD. Sensitisation towards LGBTQ+ community: What does it mean? Keith Hoskins, the executive member for Enterprise and Arts at North Herts Council, which is involved in running the museum, said: "We try to be sensitive to identifying pronouns for people in the past, as we are for people in the present, it is only polite and respectful." But experts are divided. Mary Beard, author of "Emperor of Rome: Ruling the Ancient Roman World," told TIME magazine: “This is as tricky [an] area in the ancient world as it is now. What is said by Romans about Elagabalus powerfully reminds us that debates about the boundaries between male and female go back thousands of years (we are not the first generation to have those debates),” Also watch | WION Dispatch: Transgender tycoon buys Miss Universe contest × The museum's LGBTQ+ collection features a coin of Elagabalus, adding another dimension to their decision. Elagabalus, known for marrying both men and women, presents a historical enigma regarding pronoun usage, with conflicting interpretations of Dio's writings. Some experts argue that Dio's references to Elagabalus wearing makeup and wigs could have been attempts to undermine the emperor's rule rather than him being a transgender person. Also read | Delhi hospital inaugurates India's first dedicated OPD for transgender community But the museum has underscored Elagabalus's explicit preference for she/her pronouns. Besides, experts also urge caution to add that while ancient debates on gender boundaries existed, modern categories should not be indiscriminately applied to the complexities of the ancient world. (With inputs from agencies)

UK museum rebrands Roman emperor as transgender person with he/him pronouns

<p>Sheikh Mansour bin Zayen bin Sultan Al Nahyan, 53, or simply Sheikh Mansour is the brother of ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed. Among Mansour’s many government and commercial roles, he is vice-president of Abu Dhabi, vice-president of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and vice-chairman of Abu Dhabi’s strategic investment company, Mubadala.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/who-is-sheikh-mansour-heres-everything-you-need-to-about-uaes-newly-appointed-vice-president-577174">Who is Sheikh Mansour? Here's everything you need to know about UAE's new vice president, his net worth &amp; more</a></strong></p>

<p>Sheikh Mansour bought Manchester City in 2008. The club is now one of the world's most successful football clubs and a force to reckon with. The city has won Premier League seven times under his ownership.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sheikh Mansour's bid to buy The Telegraph newspaper</strong></h2>

<p>Along with the US-based RedBird Capital, Mansour's International Media Investments (IMI) is bidding for the Daily and Sunday Telegraph newspaper titles and The Spectator magazine.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Why the Great Britain is not that great</strong></p>

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<p>Mansour's IMI, according to the proposal, would be a "passive" partner. A spokesperson told The Times newspaper that the independence of the titles will remain "essential to protecting their reputation and credibility".</p>

<h2><strong>Which other newspapers Sheikh Mansour has ownership in?</strong></h2>

<p>The other papers owned by Sheikh Mansour's International Media Investments include The National, founded in Abu Dhabi in 2008.</p>

<p>Notably, The National's first editor Martin Newland was a former editor of The Daily Telegraph.</p>

<p>IMI also owned the al-Roeya newspaper which closed down in September last year.</p>

<h2><strong>The vast wealth owned by Sheikh Mansour</strong></h2>

<p>According to The Times, Mansour reportedly has a fortune of between £17 billion and £30 billion. But since he's linked to the state of UAE, the estimates are deemed unreliable.</p>

<p>He owns a vast palace in Abu Dhabi, a mansion in Spain and one of what is thought to be the world’s biggest superyachts, the 483ft A+ Yacht, formerly known as the Topaz.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2009 he spent £170 million on a 32 per cent stake in billionaire Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic spaceship company.</p>

<p>UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is expected to meet Sultan Al Jaber, the chairman of IMI during COP28 climate change conference next week. The Downing Street is currently scrutinising the takeover bid.</p>


Sheikh Mansour bin Zayen bin Sultan Al Nahyan, 53, or simply Sheikh Mansour is the brother of ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed. Among Mansour’s many government and commercial roles, he is vice-president of Abu Dhabi, vice-president of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and vice-chairman of Abu Dhabi’s strategic investment company, Mubadala.

Sheikh Mansour bin Zayen bin Sultan Al Nahyan, 53, or simply Sheikh Mansour is the brother of ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed. Among Mansour’s many government and commercial roles, he is vice-president of Abu Dhabi, vice-president of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and vice-chairman of Abu Dhabi’s strategic investment company, Mubadala. Also read | Who is Sheikh Mansour? Here's everything you need to know about UAE's new vice president, his net worth & more Sheikh Mansour bought Manchester City in 2008. The club is now one of the world's most successful football clubs and a force to reckon with. The city has won Premier League seven times under his ownership. Sheikh Mansour's bid to buy The Telegraph newspaper Along with the US-based RedBird Capital, Mansour's International Media Investments (IMI) is bidding for the Daily and Sunday Telegraph newspaper titles and The Spectator magazine. Also watch | Gravitas Plus: Why the Great Britain is not that great × Mansour's IMI, according to the proposal, would be a "passive" partner. A spokesperson told The Times newspaper that the independence of the titles will remain "essential to protecting their reputation and credibility". Which other newspapers Sheikh Mansour has ownership in? The other papers owned by Sheikh Mansour's International Media Investments include The National, founded in Abu Dhabi in 2008. Notably, The National's first editor Martin Newland was a former editor of The Daily Telegraph. IMI also owned the al-Roeya newspaper which closed down in September last year. The vast wealth owned by Sheikh Mansour According to The Times, Mansour reportedly has a fortune of between £17 billion and £30 billion. But since he's linked to the state of UAE, the estimates are deemed unreliable. He owns a vast palace in Abu Dhabi, a mansion in Spain and one of what is thought to be the world’s biggest superyachts, the 483ft A+ Yacht, formerly known as the Topaz. In 2009 he spent £170 million on a 32 per cent stake in billionaire Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic spaceship company. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is expected to meet Sultan Al Jaber, the chairman of IMI during COP28 climate change conference next week. The Downing Street is currently scrutinising the takeover bid.

Inside UAE's Sheikh Mansour's bid to buy The Telegraph newspaper

<p>Stockholm-headquartered multi-national high fashion brand H&amp;M has announced that it will increase payments for its clothing items manufactured in Bangladesh to compensate for increased worker wages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>H&amp;M's decision comes weeks after protests by garment workers in Bangladesh, who were against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina-led government's decision over wage hikes. The worker groups had deemed the wage hikes proposed by Hasina government as insufficient.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-garment-workers-protest-seeking-higher-minimum-wage-656324">Bangladesh garment workers protest seeking higher minimum wage</a></strong></p>

<p>According to Bloomberg, H&amp;M conveyed to its partner garment factories in Bangladesh that it will "absorb the increase of the wages in our product prices."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How much is the wage hike?</strong></h2>

<p>The Bangladeshi government had declared a 56 per cent raise in the minimum monthly wage for garment workers to 12,500 taka (approximately $113), effective from December.</p>

<p>The H&amp;M said it supports "fair and competitive wages" in its supply chain, and asserted H&amp;M asserted its dedication to enhancing working conditions.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Bangladesh: Protests, violence, vandalism continue on the streets of Dhaka</strong></p>

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<p>Despite the government's proposed $113 minimum hike, thousands of Bangladeshi garment workers, currently earning $75 per month, have protested to demand $208 per month, CNN reported.</p>

<h2><strong>Bangladesh wage hike protests</strong></h2>

<p>The protests have disrupted operations of garment supply chains and have led to factory closures and violent clashes with law enforcement authorities.</p>

<p>Three workers have lost their lives during the demonstrations, including one in a factory fire and another in clashes with the police,&nbsp;</p>

<p>In October, H&amp;M and other retailers addressed a letter to Bangladesh's prime minister, urging a minimum wage aligned with workers' basic needs.</p>

<p>The American Apparel and Footwear Association suggested more frequent reviews of Bangladesh's minimum wage, challenging the current five-year interval, as reported by CNN.</p>

<p>The wage increase, initially proposed in October, triggered protests from garment workers who argued that it failed to keep pace with inflation over the past five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Bangladesh ranks as the second-largest global exporter of ready-made garments, trailing only China.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Stockholm-headquartered multi-national high fashion brand H&M has announced that it will increase payments for its clothing items manufactured in Bangladesh to compensate for increased worker wages.

Stockholm-headquartered multi-national high fashion brand H&M has announced that it will increase payments for its clothing items manufactured in Bangladesh to compensate for increased worker wages. H&M's decision comes weeks after protests by garment workers in Bangladesh, who were against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina-led government's decision over wage hikes. The worker groups had deemed the wage hikes proposed by Hasina government as insufficient. Also read | Bangladesh garment workers protest seeking higher minimum wage According to Bloomberg, H&M conveyed to its partner garment factories in Bangladesh that it will "absorb the increase of the wages in our product prices." How much is the wage hike? The Bangladeshi government had declared a 56 per cent raise in the minimum monthly wage for garment workers to 12,500 taka (approximately $113), effective from December. The H&M said it supports "fair and competitive wages" in its supply chain, and asserted H&M asserted its dedication to enhancing working conditions. Also watch | Bangladesh: Protests, violence, vandalism continue on the streets of Dhaka × Despite the government's proposed $113 minimum hike, thousands of Bangladeshi garment workers, currently earning $75 per month, have protested to demand $208 per month, CNN reported. Bangladesh wage hike protests The protests have disrupted operations of garment supply chains and have led to factory closures and violent clashes with law enforcement authorities. Three workers have lost their lives during the demonstrations, including one in a factory fire and another in clashes with the police, In October, H&M and other retailers addressed a letter to Bangladesh's prime minister, urging a minimum wage aligned with workers' basic needs. The American Apparel and Footwear Association suggested more frequent reviews of Bangladesh's minimum wage, challenging the current five-year interval, as reported by CNN. The wage increase, initially proposed in October, triggered protests from garment workers who argued that it failed to keep pace with inflation over the past five years. Notably, Bangladesh ranks as the second-largest global exporter of ready-made garments, trailing only China. (With inputs from agencies)

H&M to increase payments for clothes manufactured in Bangladesh to compensate higher wages

<p>A 20-year-old man, identified as Lareb Hashmi, reportedly attacked a bus conductor in Uttar Pradesh state's Prayagraj with a cleaver following a dispute over ticket fare, the police has said. The authorities have denied that the claim by alleged attacker that he attacked the bus conductor for allegedly "insulting prophet Muhammad".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The violent altercation was witnessed by the bus driver Mangla Yadav. The bus conductor Harikesh Vishwakarma was subsequently rushed to a hospital for treatment.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/halal-certified-edible-items-banned-in-indian-state-of-uttar-pradesh-with-immediate-effect-660202">India: Uttar Pradesh govt bans Halal-certified edible items in state with immediate effect</a></strong></p>

<p>While recounting the incident, the driver of the bus, Mangla Yadav, said, “Suddenly, there was an attack inside the bus. I heard a sound and then stopped the bus.”</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Lareb Hashmi?</strong></h2>

<p>According to Deputy Commissioner of Police Abhinav Tyagi, Lareb Hashmi,&nbsp;aged 20, is a first-year engineering student in Prayagraj, nearly 700 km southeast of New Delhi. He is the son of Mohammed Yunus, who operates a poultry farm in the city. He is a resident of Prayagraj's Hajiganj area.</p>

<p>"Following the incident, the accused was arrested by the police and a case under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code was registered. Further investigation is underway," Tyagi said in an official statement.</p>

<h2><strong>Lareb Hashmi reportedly evaded arrest: What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>According to police, Hashmi reportedly attempted to evade the arrest. He entered a college campus where he recorded and uploaded a video confessing to the crime of attacking the conductor but accused him of insulting the prophet.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India: Four suspected terrorists arrested in India's Uttar Pradesh by the Anti-Terror Squad</strong></p>

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<p>The video, seen by WION, shows Hashmi making religiously inflammatory remarks and targeting UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video, Hashmi claimed he assaulted the conductor for allegedly "insulting Prophet Muhammad."</p>

<p>The police apprehended Hashmi inside the college after an armed encounter during which he sustained a gunshot wound to his leg.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The accused had attempted to fire at the police during the arrest, India Today reported.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A 20-year-old man, identified as Lareb Hashmi, reportedly attacked a bus conductor in Uttar Pradesh state's Prayagraj with a cleaver following a dispute over ticket fare, the police has said.

A 20-year-old man, identified as Lareb Hashmi, reportedly attacked a bus conductor in Uttar Pradesh state's Prayagraj with a cleaver following a dispute over ticket fare, the police has said. The authorities have denied that the claim by alleged attacker that he attacked the bus conductor for allegedly "insulting prophet Muhammad". The violent altercation was witnessed by the bus driver Mangla Yadav. The bus conductor Harikesh Vishwakarma was subsequently rushed to a hospital for treatment. Also read | India: Uttar Pradesh govt bans Halal-certified edible items in state with immediate effect While recounting the incident, the driver of the bus, Mangla Yadav, said, “Suddenly, there was an attack inside the bus. I heard a sound and then stopped the bus.” Who is Lareb Hashmi? According to Deputy Commissioner of Police Abhinav Tyagi, Lareb Hashmi, aged 20, is a first-year engineering student in Prayagraj, nearly 700 km southeast of New Delhi. He is the son of Mohammed Yunus, who operates a poultry farm in the city. He is a resident of Prayagraj's Hajiganj area. "Following the incident, the accused was arrested by the police and a case under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code was registered. Further investigation is underway," Tyagi said in an official statement. Lareb Hashmi reportedly evaded arrest: What happened? According to police, Hashmi reportedly attempted to evade the arrest. He entered a college campus where he recorded and uploaded a video confessing to the crime of attacking the conductor but accused him of insulting the prophet. Also watch | India: Four suspected terrorists arrested in India's Uttar Pradesh by the Anti-Terror Squad × The video, seen by WION, shows Hashmi making religiously inflammatory remarks and targeting UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In the video, Hashmi claimed he assaulted the conductor for allegedly "insulting Prophet Muhammad." The police apprehended Hashmi inside the college after an armed encounter during which he sustained a gunshot wound to his leg. The accused had attempted to fire at the police during the arrest, India Today reported. (With inputs from agencies)

UP Police say engineering student attacked bus conductor over fare dispute not 'insulting prophet'

Bob Dylan's Relevance Amid Israel-Hamas War

Apart from war in Ukraine and Gaza, there are 28 other ongoing conflicts in the world right now, ranging from invasions, drug wars, terrorist insurgencies, ethnic conflicts, and civil wars.

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As Palestinians killed in Gaza tops above 12,000 mark, Dylan's most famous message blows in the wind. "How many times must a man look up/Before he can see the sky?/Yes, ’n’ how many ears must one man have/Before he can hear people cry?/Yes, ’n’ how many deaths will it take till he knows/That too many people have died?/The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind

United Nations needs Dylan's wake up call

Writing for WION, senior journalist Madhavan Narayanan argued that the UN needs Dylan's "wake up call" as civilian death toll in Gaza continues to rise.

In brief truce, there is hope to 'lay down' after all


Bob Dylan's 'Lay Down Your Weary Tune' rings true after Israel and Hamas implemented their brief truce on Nov 24. 'Lay down your weary tune, lay down/Lay down the song you strum/And rest yourself 'neath the strength of strings/No voice can hope to hum'

Apart from Israel-Hamas war, there are 29 other conflicts currently ranging in the world.

<p>Imran Khan, Pakistan's only Cricket World Cup-winning captain-turned-ousted prime minister, may lose the bat as the electoral symbol of his Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) political party. The development comes after the Election Commission of Pakistan on Thursday (Nov 23) warned PTI to hold intra-party polls within three weeks or it will lose its electoral symbol.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But since Imran Khan's supporters pulled off a 'mini-intifada' in May against Pakistan's powerful military, a number of high-profile exits from the PTI have rocked the boat of populism Khan was sailing in.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/to-coup-or-not-coup-pakistan-armys-options-after-imran-khans-mini-intifada-592986">To coup or not coup: Pakistan Army’s options after Imran Khan’s 'mini-intifada'</a></strong></p>

<p>Since August 2023, Khan has been in custody following a conviction in a corruption case, among dozens of cases lodged against him since he was ousted from power after a parliamentary no-trust vote in April 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Imran Khan's potential loss of Bat: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan has one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia, with some of Imran Khan's strongholds in the predominantly tribal Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province particularly backwards in terms of Human Development Indicators. Voters in these tribal areas identify Khan's party primarily with its bat symbol. Given Khan's acclaimed record as one of the finest cricketers Pakistan has ever produced, his party is identified with the Cricket Bat across Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In fact, 'Ballay pe thappa' (Stamp on the Bat) was the defining rallying call for Khan's supporters in 2018 when the PTI chief, then backed by Pakistan's army-intelligence complex, managed to put together a coalition to be in Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The loss of the bat may very well translate into a loss of identity for embattled Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How exactly can PTI lose its Bat symbol?</strong></h2>

<p>On August 3, 2023, just two days before Khan was arrested after a court sentenced him to three years in jail for illegally selling state gifts, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had warned PTI that it could be declared ineligible to obtain an election symbol if the intraparty elections are not organised.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-pakistans-ousted-pm-imran-khans-toshakhana-woes-give-him-3-years-in-jail-622728">Explained | Pakistan's ousted PM Imran Khan's Toshakhana woes land him in jail for 3 years</a></strong></p>

<p>According to Pakistan's Dawn newspaper, the ECP mentioned in the notice that it had already served two notices to the PTI, asking the party to conduct intra-party polls, but it failed to do so.</p>

<p>The intra-party elections in PTI were reportedly due on June 13, 2021, but were not conducted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On November 23, 2023, the ECP ordered the PTI to hold intra-party elections within 20 days or else it would lose bat as its poll symbol.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: Elections to be conducted by February 11</strong></p>

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<p>After months of deadlock over elections even after the appointment of a caretaker prime minister, Pakistan has scheduled general elections for February 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Imran Khan, Pakistan's only Cricket World Cup-winning captain-turned-ousted prime minister, may lose the bat as the electoral symbol of his Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) political party.

Imran Khan, Pakistan's only Cricket World Cup-winning captain-turned-ousted prime minister, may lose the bat as the electoral symbol of his Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) political party. The development comes after the Election Commission of Pakistan on Thursday (Nov 23) warned PTI to hold intra-party polls within three weeks or it will lose its electoral symbol. But since Imran Khan's supporters pulled off a 'mini-intifada' in May against Pakistan's powerful military, a number of high-profile exits from the PTI have rocked the boat of populism Khan was sailing in. Also read | To coup or not coup: Pakistan Army’s options after Imran Khan’s 'mini-intifada' Since August 2023, Khan has been in custody following a conviction in a corruption case, among dozens of cases lodged against him since he was ousted from power after a parliamentary no-trust vote in April 2022. Imran Khan's potential loss of Bat: What does it mean? Pakistan has one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia, with some of Imran Khan's strongholds in the predominantly tribal Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province particularly backwards in terms of Human Development Indicators. Voters in these tribal areas identify Khan's party primarily with its bat symbol. Given Khan's acclaimed record as one of the finest cricketers Pakistan has ever produced, his party is identified with the Cricket Bat across Pakistan. In fact, 'Ballay pe thappa' (Stamp on the Bat) was the defining rallying call for Khan's supporters in 2018 when the PTI chief, then backed by Pakistan's army-intelligence complex, managed to put together a coalition to be in Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office. The loss of the bat may very well translate into a loss of identity for embattled Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). How exactly can PTI lose its Bat symbol? On August 3, 2023, just two days before Khan was arrested after a court sentenced him to three years in jail for illegally selling state gifts, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had warned PTI that it could be declared ineligible to obtain an election symbol if the intraparty elections are not organised. Also read | Explained | Pakistan's ousted PM Imran Khan's Toshakhana woes land him in jail for 3 years According to Pakistan's Dawn newspaper, the ECP mentioned in the notice that it had already served two notices to the PTI, asking the party to conduct intra-party polls, but it failed to do so. The intra-party elections in PTI were reportedly due on June 13, 2021, but were not conducted. On November 23, 2023, the ECP ordered the PTI to hold intra-party elections within 20 days or else it would lose bat as its poll symbol. Also watch | Pakistan: Elections to be conducted by February 11 × After months of deadlock over elections even after the appointment of a caretaker prime minister, Pakistan has scheduled general elections for February 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

No bat for Imran Khan? Pakistan's election commission may take away PTI's electoral symbol

<p>A day after a pneumonia 'epidemic' in China alarmed World Heath Organization nearly four years since Covid was first detected, India's union health ministry said that it is closely monitoring the cases and clusters of respiratory illness there.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China has since specified the outbreak as that of Influenza A virus subtype H9N2. It was first reported in 1988 and a total of 86 cases of human infection with H9N2 viruses were reported until recent outbreak in China.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-another-pneumonia-epidemic-alarms-who-nearly-four-years-since-covid-was-first-detected-661753">China: Another pneumonia 'epidemic' alarms WHO nearly four years since Covid was first detected</a></strong></p>

<p>"There is low risk to India from both the avian influenza case reported from China as well as the clusters of respiratory illness," the health ministry said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>No unusual pathogen identified so far in China's pneumonia outbreak</strong></h2>

<p>The union health ministry said that "there has been no identification of an unusual pathogen or any unexpected clinical manifestations" in the pneumonia outbreak reported from China.</p>

<h2><strong>What is India doing to prepare for any possible&nbsp;outbreak?</strong></h2>

<p>According to an official readout, a meeting was recently held under the chairmanship of Director General of Health Services to discuss the preparedness measures against human cases of Avian Influenza in the country against the backdrop of a human case of H9N2 (Avian influenza virus) in October 2023 in China that was reported to WHO.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch | Undiagnosed Pneumonia outbreak in China, reports eerily similar to 2019 Covid outbreak | WION</strong></p>

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<p>"The overall risk assessment by WHO indicates a low probability of human to human spread and low case fatality rate among human cases of H9N2 reported to WHO so far. The need for strengthening surveillance among human, animal husbandry and wild life sectors and improving coordination was recognised," it was found.</p>

<p>WION reached out to World Health Organization to comment on the purported pneumonia outbreak in China. They referred us to their official statement over 'upsurge of respiratory illnesses among children in North-China reported <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-another-pneumonia-epidemic-alarms-who-nearly-four-years-since-covid-was-first-detected-661753">here</a>.</p>

<p>The health ministry said that India is prepared for any kind of public health exigency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India is embarking on a One Health approach to adopt a holistic and integrated roadmap towards addressing such public health issues. There has also been a significant strengthening of health infrastructure especially since the COVID pandemic," the readout added.</p>


A day after a pneumonia 'epidemic' in China alarmed World Heath Organization nearly four years since Covid was first detected, India's union health ministry said that it is closely monitoring the cases and clusters of respiratory illness there.

A day after a pneumonia 'epidemic' in China alarmed World Heath Organization nearly four years since Covid was first detected, India's union health ministry said that it is closely monitoring the cases and clusters of respiratory illness there. China has since specified the outbreak as that of Influenza A virus subtype H9N2. It was first reported in 1988 and a total of 86 cases of human infection with H9N2 viruses were reported until recent outbreak in China. Also read | China: Another pneumonia 'epidemic' alarms WHO nearly four years since Covid was first detected "There is low risk to India from both the avian influenza case reported from China as well as the clusters of respiratory illness," the health ministry said. No unusual pathogen identified so far in China's pneumonia outbreak The union health ministry said that "there has been no identification of an unusual pathogen or any unexpected clinical manifestations" in the pneumonia outbreak reported from China. What is India doing to prepare for any possible outbreak? According to an official readout, a meeting was recently held under the chairmanship of Director General of Health Services to discuss the preparedness measures against human cases of Avian Influenza in the country against the backdrop of a human case of H9N2 (Avian influenza virus) in October 2023 in China that was reported to WHO. Also watch | Undiagnosed Pneumonia outbreak in China, reports eerily similar to 2019 Covid outbreak | WION × "The overall risk assessment by WHO indicates a low probability of human to human spread and low case fatality rate among human cases of H9N2 reported to WHO so far. The need for strengthening surveillance among human, animal husbandry and wild life sectors and improving coordination was recognised," it was found. WION reached out to World Health Organization to comment on the purported pneumonia outbreak in China. They referred us to their official statement over 'upsurge of respiratory illnesses among children in North-China reported here. The health ministry said that India is prepared for any kind of public health exigency. "India is embarking on a One Health approach to adopt a holistic and integrated roadmap towards addressing such public health issues. There has also been a significant strengthening of health infrastructure especially since the COVID pandemic," the readout added.

India is 'closely monitoring' China's influenza outbreak amid mild Covid scare

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