<p>Indian Air Force&nbsp;Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari has stressed on the preparedness of the Indian Air Force in the wake of developments along the northern borders. India shares International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan and an undefined Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.</p>

<p>Speaking at an event, India's air force chief&nbsp;highlighted the continuous upgrading of capabilities and tactical adaptations undertaken by the Indian forces since the Galwan Valley clash in 2020, when a deadly skirmish between Indian and Chinese troops killed 20 Indian troops and an unspecified number of Chinese soldiers.</p>

<p>The Air Force chief said that the country has focused on developing&nbsp;adequate infrastructure along with deployment&nbsp;of assets to ensure a steady&nbsp;deterrence along&nbsp;the northern borders.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-tells-china-peace-along-borders-will-define-bilateral-ties-586813">India tells China peace along borders will define bilateral ties</a></strong></p>

<p>The ongoing confrontation between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh has seen disengagement in some areas following multiple rounds of corps commander meets and simultaneous diplomatic negotiations.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India-China Clash: Faceoff between Indian and Chinese troops in Arunachal's Tawang</strong></p>

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<p>"We are always on 24x7 readiness to take on any challenge," stated Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari, asserting their vigilance regarding developments along the northern borders.</p>

<h2><strong>What changes after Galwan crisis?</strong></h2>

<p>Following the Galwan crisis, the Indian Air Force has enhanced surveillance capabilities across the Line of Actual Control. This entails&nbsp;deploying radars and surface-to-air guided weapons while redeploying fighter aircraft.</p>

<p>Earlier, Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar had also pointed to&nbsp;the combat readiness&nbsp;of the Indian Navy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian Air Force Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari has stressed on the preparedness of the Indian Air Force in the wake of developments along the northern borders. India shares International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan and an undefined Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.

Indian Air Force Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari has stressed on the preparedness of the Indian Air Force in the wake of developments along the northern borders. India shares International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan and an undefined Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. Speaking at an event, India's air force chief highlighted the continuous upgrading of capabilities and tactical adaptations undertaken by the Indian forces since the Galwan Valley clash in 2020, when a deadly skirmish between Indian and Chinese troops killed 20 Indian troops and an unspecified number of Chinese soldiers. The Air Force chief said that the country has focused on developing adequate infrastructure along with deployment of assets to ensure a steady deterrence along the northern borders. Also read | India tells China peace along borders will define bilateral ties The ongoing confrontation between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh has seen disengagement in some areas following multiple rounds of corps commander meets and simultaneous diplomatic negotiations. Also watch | India-China Clash: Faceoff between Indian and Chinese troops in Arunachal's Tawang × "We are always on 24x7 readiness to take on any challenge," stated Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari, asserting their vigilance regarding developments along the northern borders. What changes after Galwan crisis? Following the Galwan crisis, the Indian Air Force has enhanced surveillance capabilities across the Line of Actual Control. This entails deploying radars and surface-to-air guided weapons while redeploying fighter aircraft. Earlier, Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar had also pointed to the combat readiness of the Indian Navy. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's Air Force chief reacts to Chinese threat along Line of Actual Control

<p>The anti-women tyranny in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan fiddled to another low as nearly 80 girls were poisoned and hospitalised in two separate attacks at their primary schools in northern Afghanistan's Sar-e-Pul province on June 4.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A local education official confirmed the set of poisoning incidents&nbsp;to Associated Press.&nbsp;The education official said the person who orchestrated the poisoning had a personal grudge but did not elaborate.</p>

<p>According to Mohammad Rahmani, who heads the provincial education department, a total of 80 female students were poisoned in Sangcharak district of Sar-e-Pul.</p>

<p>He said 60 students were poisoned in Naswan-e-Kabod Aab School and 17 others were poisoned in Naswan-e-Faizabad School.</p>

<p>"Both primary schools are near to each other and were targeted one after the other," he told Associated Press. "We shifted the students to hospital and now they are all fine."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals</strong></p>

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<p>After replacing democratically-elected President Ashraf Ghani's government&nbsp;in Kabul in August 2021, the globally unrecognised Taliban government has made it a matter of policy to erode rights and freedoms of Afghan women and girls. But it is for the first time that a poisoning assault akin to the ones reported in Iran in recent months has been reported in Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-afghan-women-fear-for-life-as-taliban-ban-male-doctors-from-treating-them-551218">Exclusive | Afghan women fear for life as Taliban ban male doctors from treating them</a></strong></p>

<p>The Taliban banned girls from attending schools beyond sixth grade shortly after they came to power. In December 2022, the government banned women from attending university as well.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
WION had reached out Afghan women living under Taliban's tyranny who described harrowing scenes of ouster from classrooms and universities in December 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-women-speak-to-wion-as-taliban-dismantles-their-right-to-education-campus-after-campus-545841">Afghan women speak to WION as Taliban dismantle their right to education, campus after campus</a></b></p>

<p>The department's investigation is ongoing and initial inquiries show that someone with a grudge paid a third party to carry out the attacks, Rahmani said.</p>

<p>He gave no information on how the girls were poisoned or the nature of their injuries. Rahmani did not give their ages but said they were in grades 1 to 6.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The anti-women tyranny in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan fiddled to another low as nearly 80 girls were poisoned and hospitalised in two separate attacks at their primary schools in northern Afghanistan's Sar-e-Pul province on June 4.

The anti-women tyranny in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan fiddled to another low as nearly 80 girls were poisoned and hospitalised in two separate attacks at their primary schools in northern Afghanistan's Sar-e-Pul province on June 4. A local education official confirmed the set of poisoning incidents to Associated Press. The education official said the person who orchestrated the poisoning had a personal grudge but did not elaborate. According to Mohammad Rahmani, who heads the provincial education department, a total of 80 female students were poisoned in Sangcharak district of Sar-e-Pul. He said 60 students were poisoned in Naswan-e-Kabod Aab School and 17 others were poisoned in Naswan-e-Faizabad School. "Both primary schools are near to each other and were targeted one after the other," he told Associated Press. "We shifted the students to hospital and now they are all fine." Also watch | Afghan women speak to WION from the ground: 'We want our freedoms back' | WION Originals × After replacing democratically-elected President Ashraf Ghani's government in Kabul in August 2021, the globally unrecognised Taliban government has made it a matter of policy to erode rights and freedoms of Afghan women and girls. But it is for the first time that a poisoning assault akin to the ones reported in Iran in recent months has been reported in Afghanistan. Also read | Exclusive | Afghan women fear for life as Taliban ban male doctors from treating them The Taliban banned girls from attending schools beyond sixth grade shortly after they came to power. In December 2022, the government banned women from attending university as well. WION had reached out Afghan women living under Taliban's tyranny who described harrowing scenes of ouster from classrooms and universities in December 2022. Also read | Afghan women speak to WION as Taliban dismantle their right to education, campus after campus The department's investigation is ongoing and initial inquiries show that someone with a grudge paid a third party to carry out the attacks, Rahmani said. He gave no information on how the girls were poisoned or the nature of their injuries. Rahmani did not give their ages but said they were in grades 1 to 6. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Nearly 80 Afghan school girls poisoned in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan

<p>The ongoing political uproar in Pakistan has led to a surge of a kind of information overload which often cannot be verified. Recently, a screenshot purportedly attributed to the US State Department suggested revisions into Washington's travel advisory to its own and Canadian citizens.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Pakistani citizens in the US and visa row: What does the viral screenshot say?</strong></h2>

<p>The screenshot appears to have been taken from a video on the internet. It says the following: "If you are traveling to Pakistan from USA, Canada you should not use NICOP. Instead get a Pakistani visa on USA/Canadian passport."</p>

<p>NICOP refers to National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis. Individuals holding NICOP can enter Pakistan without any visa requirements.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-says-may-9-rioters-should-be-punished-like-us-capitol-hill-attackers-597030">Pakistan PM says May 9 rioters should be punished like US Capitol Hill attackers</a></strong></p>

<p>It adds: "Anyone entering Pakistan with a USA/Canadian passport will legally be considered a USA / Canadian citizen and will be entered into Pakistani Immigration Official Records as a USA/ Canadian Citizen. He or she will be entitled to all the benefits and facilities available for USA /Canadian citizens."</p>

<h2><strong>Is it true?</strong></h2>

<p>The US State Department has not revised its travel advisory for naturalised US citizens wanting to visit Pakistan since February 8, 2023. Secondly, the US state department's writ does not run over Canadian citizens.<img alt="Viral screenshot" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ce01a137-d238-4a05-b7f8-cb303baeed21" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-06-05%20002330.png" /></p>

<p>Therefore, the viral screenshot is fake. It has now been deleted from the Twitter account from where it first went viral.</p>

<h2><strong>US state department's advisory on Pakistan travel</strong></h2>

<p>The US state department's actual travel advisory cautions citizens to "reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;WION Dispatch: U.S. holds back $33 Million aid to Pakistan</strong></p>

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<p>"Terrorist groups continue to plot attacks in Pakistan. Terrorism and ongoing violence by extremist elements have led to indiscriminate attacks on civilian, as well as local military and police, targets. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist locations, schools, hospitals, places of worship, and government facilities. Terrorists have targeted U.S. diplomats and diplomatic facilities in the past," it says.</p>

<p>It further adds: "Pakistan’s security environment remains fluid sometimes changing with little or no notice. There are greater security resources and infrastructure in the major cities, particularly Islamabad, and security forces in these areas may be more readily able to respond to an emergency compared to other areas of the country. While threats still exist, terrorist attacks occur less frequently in major urban areas than other parts of Pakistan."</p>

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The ongoing political uproar in Pakistan has led to a surge of a kind of information overload which often cannot be verified. Recently, a screenshot purportedly attributed to the US State Department suggested revisions into Washington's travel advisory to its own and Canadian citizens.

The ongoing political uproar in Pakistan has led to a surge of a kind of information overload which often cannot be verified. Recently, a screenshot purportedly attributed to the US State Department suggested revisions into Washington's travel advisory to its own and Canadian citizens. Pakistani citizens in the US and visa row: What does the viral screenshot say? The screenshot appears to have been taken from a video on the internet. It says the following: "If you are traveling to Pakistan from USA, Canada you should not use NICOP. Instead get a Pakistani visa on USA/Canadian passport." NICOP refers to National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis. Individuals holding NICOP can enter Pakistan without any visa requirements. Also read | Pakistan PM says May 9 rioters should be punished like US Capitol Hill attackers It adds: "Anyone entering Pakistan with a USA/Canadian passport will legally be considered a USA / Canadian citizen and will be entered into Pakistani Immigration Official Records as a USA/ Canadian Citizen. He or she will be entitled to all the benefits and facilities available for USA /Canadian citizens." Is it true? The US State Department has not revised its travel advisory for naturalised US citizens wanting to visit Pakistan since February 8, 2023. Secondly, the US state department's writ does not run over Canadian citizens. Therefore, the viral screenshot is fake. It has now been deleted from the Twitter account from where it first went viral. US state department's advisory on Pakistan travel The US state department's actual travel advisory cautions citizens to "reconsider travel to Pakistan due to terrorism." Also watch | WION Dispatch: U.S. holds back $33 Million aid to Pakistan × "Terrorist groups continue to plot attacks in Pakistan. Terrorism and ongoing violence by extremist elements have led to indiscriminate attacks on civilian, as well as local military and police, targets. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, military installations, airports, universities, tourist locations, schools, hospitals, places of worship, and government facilities. Terrorists have targeted U.S. diplomats and diplomatic facilities in the past," it says. It further adds: "Pakistan’s security environment remains fluid sometimes changing with little or no notice. There are greater security resources and infrastructure in the major cities, particularly Islamabad, and security forces in these areas may be more readily able to respond to an emergency compared to other areas of the country. While threats still exist, terrorist attacks occur less frequently in major urban areas than other parts of Pakistan." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Do Pakistani-origin citizens of US, Canada need visa to visit Pakistan?

<p>A video doing rounds on social media shows a security guard locking down the office door of a Gurugram-based startup near Indian capital New Delhi, allegedly with employees still inside.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The office space belongs to Coding Ninjas, an ed-tech startup described as a learning platform for those wanting to learn coding.</p>

<p>"It's due to an order," the security guard responds when asked by the person making the video as to why he was locking the office down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The security guard then cited a senior executive as person behind the purported order and nodded in agreement when asked if this is to ensure that employees do not get outside.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>WION reached out to Coding Ninjas to verify the content seen in the viral video.</p>

<p>A spokesperson for the company said: "We want to clarify the incident that occurred two weeks ago was due to a regrettable action by an employee in one of our offices. The same was immediately rectified within minutes. The employee acknowledged his mistake and apologised for the inconvenience caused due to his actions. In light of the incident, the founders also personally expressed their regret and apologised to all the employees."</p>

<p>"This was an isolated incident and we are taking proactive measures to ensure that it will not be repeated. Disciplinary action is being taken against the concerned employee. This was an aberration at Coding Ninjas and against our values and culture as an organisation. We want to assure everyone that this action was not intentional. We regret that the inconvenience this incident has caused," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><b>'Is it an office or a prison': Indians on social media react to viral video</b></h2>

<p>Coding Ninjas did not respond to WION's query as to what exact "disciplinary action" is being taken by the company against the concerned employee. The story will be updated if and when they come up with a response on the same.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-biggest-startup-scandal-how-one-event-in-indias-noida-scarred-indias-entrepreneurial-ambitions-578023">‘Biggest startup scandal’: How one event in India’s Noida scarred India’s entrepreneurial ambitions</a></strong></p>

<p>At the same time, it is not yet clear what was the reason for alleged locking up of the employees, as mentioned in the viral video.</p>

<p>The video has led to massive uproar on social media.</p>

<p>Individuals employed in the IT sector claimed this incident as an example of the wider state of exploitative work culture in sectors across India.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India@75: World's 3rd largest startup ecosystem</strong></p>

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<p>"Really sad to see this, hope virality of this video creates waves and toxic culture of sales led startups changes specially in ed tech space," a user commented on LinkedIn.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Is it an office or a prison," another LinkedIn user asked.</p>

<p>India is the third largest tech startup ecosystem globally after the United States and China.</p>

<p>The world's fifth largest economy has nearly 27,000 active tech startups, having added 1,300 just in 2022.</p>

<p>In terms of the unicorns — the&nbsp;privately held startup companies valued at over US$1 billion each — India emerged&nbsp;as the third-largest hub with 68 such companies, according to&nbsp;Global Unicorn Index 2023.</p>

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A video doing rounds on social media shows a security guard locking down the office door of a Gurugram-based startup near Indian capital New Delhi, allegedly with employees still inside.

A video doing rounds on social media shows a security guard locking down the office door of a Gurugram-based startup near Indian capital New Delhi, allegedly with employees still inside. The office space belongs to Coding Ninjas, an ed-tech startup described as a learning platform for those wanting to learn coding. "It's due to an order," the security guard responds when asked by the person making the video as to why he was locking the office down. The security guard then cited a senior executive as person behind the purported order and nodded in agreement when asked if this is to ensure that employees do not get outside. × WION reached out to Coding Ninjas to verify the content seen in the viral video. A spokesperson for the company said: "We want to clarify the incident that occurred two weeks ago was due to a regrettable action by an employee in one of our offices. The same was immediately rectified within minutes. The employee acknowledged his mistake and apologised for the inconvenience caused due to his actions. In light of the incident, the founders also personally expressed their regret and apologised to all the employees." "This was an isolated incident and we are taking proactive measures to ensure that it will not be repeated. Disciplinary action is being taken against the concerned employee. This was an aberration at Coding Ninjas and against our values and culture as an organisation. We want to assure everyone that this action was not intentional. We regret that the inconvenience this incident has caused," the statement added. 'Is it an office or a prison': Indians on social media react to viral video Coding Ninjas did not respond to WION's query as to what exact "disciplinary action" is being taken by the company against the concerned employee. The story will be updated if and when they come up with a response on the same. Also read | ‘Biggest startup scandal’: How one event in India’s Noida scarred India’s entrepreneurial ambitions At the same time, it is not yet clear what was the reason for alleged locking up of the employees, as mentioned in the viral video. The video has led to massive uproar on social media. Individuals employed in the IT sector claimed this incident as an example of the wider state of exploitative work culture in sectors across India. Also watch | India@75: World's 3rd largest startup ecosystem × "Really sad to see this, hope virality of this video creates waves and toxic culture of sales led startups changes specially in ed tech space," a user commented on LinkedIn. "Is it an office or a prison," another LinkedIn user asked. India is the third largest tech startup ecosystem globally after the United States and China. The world's fifth largest economy has nearly 27,000 active tech startups, having added 1,300 just in 2022. In terms of the unicorns — the privately held startup companies valued at over US$1 billion each — India emerged as the third-largest hub with 68 such companies, according to Global Unicorn Index 2023. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Office or prison': Did an Indian ed-tech firm lock up its staff? Here's what we know

<p>US President Joe Biden allegedly engaged in a criminal bribery scheme with a foreign national during his time as vice president, US House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer said this week while citing a call with FBI director Christopher Wray.</p>

<p>According to a report in the Sputnik, the FBI director reportedly confirmed the existence of an unclassified document which corroborated the aforementioned &nbsp;accusation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today, FBI Director Wray confirmed the existence of the FD-1023 form alleging then-Vice President Biden engaged in a criminal bribery scheme with a foreign national," the statement said on Wednesday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Gravitas: Biden family knee-deep in corruption?</strong></p>

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<p>"While Director Wray… has offered to allow us to see the documents in person at FBI headquarters, we have been clear that anything short of producing these documents to the House Oversight Committee is not in compliance with the subpoena."</p>

<p>Earlier on Wednesday, Comer said that the US House Oversight Committee will take steps to hold Wray in contempt of Congress after the FBI refused to provide unclassified records related to an alleged criminal scheme involving then-vice president Joe Biden.</p>

<p>Comer previously outlined in his subpoena that he was seeking file as it pertained to a scheme in which Biden is alleged to have shown interest in securing policy decisions in exchange for a payoff.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The subpoena stated it was requesting any files dating back to June 2020 that contained the word "Biden."</p>

<p>The Sputnik report adds that despite the contempt threat, the initiative would only serve as a public reprimand. This is because a serious action against the FBI director can only be put forth by US Attorney General Merrick Garland after having been referred to do such by the US Department of Justice.</p>

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US President Joe Biden allegedly engaged in a criminal bribery scheme with a foreign national during his time as vice president, US House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer said this week while citing a call with FBI director Christopher Wray.

US President Joe Biden allegedly engaged in a criminal bribery scheme with a foreign national during his time as vice president, US House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer said this week while citing a call with FBI director Christopher Wray. According to a report in the Sputnik, the FBI director reportedly confirmed the existence of an unclassified document which corroborated the aforementioned accusation. "Today, FBI Director Wray confirmed the existence of the FD-1023 form alleging then-Vice President Biden engaged in a criminal bribery scheme with a foreign national," the statement said on Wednesday. Also read | Gravitas: Biden family knee-deep in corruption? × "While Director Wray… has offered to allow us to see the documents in person at FBI headquarters, we have been clear that anything short of producing these documents to the House Oversight Committee is not in compliance with the subpoena." Earlier on Wednesday, Comer said that the US House Oversight Committee will take steps to hold Wray in contempt of Congress after the FBI refused to provide unclassified records related to an alleged criminal scheme involving then-vice president Joe Biden. Comer previously outlined in his subpoena that he was seeking file as it pertained to a scheme in which Biden is alleged to have shown interest in securing policy decisions in exchange for a payoff. The subpoena stated it was requesting any files dating back to June 2020 that contained the word "Biden." The Sputnik report adds that despite the contempt threat, the initiative would only serve as a public reprimand. This is because a serious action against the FBI director can only be put forth by US Attorney General Merrick Garland after having been referred to do such by the US Department of Justice. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Joe Biden accused of engaging in criminal bribery scheme: Report

<p>The United States on Sunday flagged China's "increasingly risky and coercive activities" in Asia. The Pentagon expressed the concern in the wake of recent acts of Chinese territorial assertions in its neighbourhood.</p>

<p>"We remain concerned about the PLA's increasingly risky and coercive activities in the region, including in recent days," said Pentagon spokesman Brigadier General Pat Ryder, who is with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin at a security conference in Singapore.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Chinese defence minister warned against establishing NATO-like military alliances in what he referred to as Asia-Pacific, saying they would plunge the region into a "whirlpool" of conflict.</p>

<p>The Chinese side incorrectly referred to the Indo-Pacific region as 'Asia Pacific'.</p>

<p>Li Shangfu's comments came a day after US and Chinese military vessels sailed close to each other in the flashpoint Taiwan Strait, an incident that provoked anger from both sides.</p>

<p>"Attempts to push for NATO-like (alliances) in the Asia-Pacific is a way of kidnapping regional countries and exaggerating conflicts and confrontations," Li said at Shangri La conference in Singapore also attended by US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-panel-recommends-inclusion-of-india-in-nato-plus-597383">US House panel recommends inclusion of India in NATO Plus to deter China</a></strong></p>

<p>Li said these alliances would "plunge the Asia-Pacific into a whirlpool of disputes and conflicts".</p>

<p>The United States is a member of the AUKUS alliance, which groups it with Australia and Britain.</p>

<p>Washington is also a member of the QUAD group, which includes Australia, India and Japan.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Why does United States want to open a NATO office in the Pacific?</strong></p>

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<p>"Today's Asia-Pacific needs open and inclusive cooperation, not buddying up into small cliques," Li said at the Shangri-La Dialogue security summit.</p>

<p>"We must not forget the severe disasters brought by the two world wars to peoples of all countries, and we must not allow such tragic history to repeat itself."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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&nbsp;</p>

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The United States on Sunday flagged China's "increasingly risky and coercive activities" in Asia. The Pentagon expressed the concern in the wake of recent acts of Chinese territorial assertions in its neighbourhood.

The United States on Sunday flagged China's "increasingly risky and coercive activities" in Asia. The Pentagon expressed the concern in the wake of recent acts of Chinese territorial assertions in its neighbourhood. "We remain concerned about the PLA's increasingly risky and coercive activities in the region, including in recent days," said Pentagon spokesman Brigadier General Pat Ryder, who is with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin at a security conference in Singapore. Meanwhile, the Chinese defence minister warned against establishing NATO-like military alliances in what he referred to as Asia-Pacific, saying they would plunge the region into a "whirlpool" of conflict. The Chinese side incorrectly referred to the Indo-Pacific region as 'Asia Pacific'. Li Shangfu's comments came a day after US and Chinese military vessels sailed close to each other in the flashpoint Taiwan Strait, an incident that provoked anger from both sides. "Attempts to push for NATO-like (alliances) in the Asia-Pacific is a way of kidnapping regional countries and exaggerating conflicts and confrontations," Li said at Shangri La conference in Singapore also attended by US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin. Also read | US House panel recommends inclusion of India in NATO Plus to deter China Li said these alliances would "plunge the Asia-Pacific into a whirlpool of disputes and conflicts". The United States is a member of the AUKUS alliance, which groups it with Australia and Britain. Washington is also a member of the QUAD group, which includes Australia, India and Japan. Also watch | Gravitas: Why does United States want to open a NATO office in the Pacific? × "Today's Asia-Pacific needs open and inclusive cooperation, not buddying up into small cliques," Li said at the Shangri-La Dialogue security summit. "We must not forget the severe disasters brought by the two world wars to peoples of all countries, and we must not allow such tragic history to repeat itself." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pentagon flags China’s ‘increasingly risky and coercive’ activities in Asia

<p>BRICS nations are leading the Greenback backlash against the global hegemony of the US dollar. A potential new shared currency between them, they say, could shield other member countries from the impact of sanctions such as the ones imposed against Russia by the United States and European countries.</p>

<p>The foreign ministers of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa met in Cape Town earlier this week. The shared currency for international trade among the bloc's nations was an issue that topped their agenda.</p>

<p>The BRICS are looking to “ensure that we do not become victims to sanctions that have secondary effects on countries that have no involvement in issues that have led to those unilateral sanctions,” Naledi Pandor, South Africa’s minister of international relations, told reporters after the meeting.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/brics-backed-new-development-bank-invites-saudi-arabia-to-join-the-club-598674">BRICS-backed New Development Bank invites Saudi Arabia to join the club</a></strong></p>

<p>As part of bloc's efforts to come up with a shared currency, proposals are reportedly being considered by officials at the New Development Bank, the Shanghai-based lender created by BRICS nations, and the BRICS "will be guided to them as to what the future models might be," Pandor said.</p>

<h2><strong>Greenback backlash: What else is happening?</strong></h2>

<p>All over the world, a backlash is brewing against the hegemony of the US dollar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Brazil and China recently struck a deal to settle trade in their local currencies, seeking to bypass the US dollar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India and Malaysia have also signed an accord to ramp up usage of the rupee in bilateral trade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among its allies, France is starting to complete transactions in yuan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;</strong><strong>Gravitas: India asks BRICS to fight for terror</strong></p>

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<p>In this sudden wave of agreements aimed at sidestepping the greenback, experts detect a sort of gradual, meaningful action that was missing in the past.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For many countries, their reasons for taking these measures are not much different from one another.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US dollar, they say, is being weaponised to push America’s foreign-policy priorities and punish those that oppose them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Countries have chafed for decades under US dollar dominance," Jonathan Wood, principal for global issues at consultancy Control Risks was quoted as saying by Bloomberg.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"More aggressive and expansive use of US sanctions in recent years reinforces this discomfort—and coincides with demands by major emerging markets for a new distribution of global power," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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BRICS nations are leading the Greenback backlash against the global hegemony of the US dollar. A potential new shared currency between them, they say, could shield other member countries from the impact of sanctions such as the ones imposed against Russia by the United States and European countries.

BRICS nations are leading the Greenback backlash against the global hegemony of the US dollar. A potential new shared currency between them, they say, could shield other member countries from the impact of sanctions such as the ones imposed against Russia by the United States and European countries. The foreign ministers of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa met in Cape Town earlier this week. The shared currency for international trade among the bloc's nations was an issue that topped their agenda. The BRICS are looking to “ensure that we do not become victims to sanctions that have secondary effects on countries that have no involvement in issues that have led to those unilateral sanctions,” Naledi Pandor, South Africa’s minister of international relations, told reporters after the meeting. Also read | BRICS-backed New Development Bank invites Saudi Arabia to join the club As part of bloc's efforts to come up with a shared currency, proposals are reportedly being considered by officials at the New Development Bank, the Shanghai-based lender created by BRICS nations, and the BRICS "will be guided to them as to what the future models might be," Pandor said. Greenback backlash: What else is happening? All over the world, a backlash is brewing against the hegemony of the US dollar. Brazil and China recently struck a deal to settle trade in their local currencies, seeking to bypass the US dollar. India and Malaysia have also signed an accord to ramp up usage of the rupee in bilateral trade. Among its allies, France is starting to complete transactions in yuan. Also watch | Gravitas: India asks BRICS to fight for terror × In this sudden wave of agreements aimed at sidestepping the greenback, experts detect a sort of gradual, meaningful action that was missing in the past. For many countries, their reasons for taking these measures are not much different from one another. The US dollar, they say, is being weaponised to push America’s foreign-policy priorities and punish those that oppose them. "Countries have chafed for decades under US dollar dominance," Jonathan Wood, principal for global issues at consultancy Control Risks was quoted as saying by Bloomberg. "More aggressive and expansive use of US sanctions in recent years reinforces this discomfort—and coincides with demands by major emerging markets for a new distribution of global power," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Greenback backlash: BRICS 'common currency' targets economic weaponisation of US dollar

<p>The death toll from the triple-train crash in Balasore district of eastern India's Odisha state was revised to 275, with the close relatives of the victims scrambling through a local school-turned-temporary mortuary to identify the bodies. So far, India's deadliest railway tragedy in more than 30 years has left nearly 1,000 people injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the restoration work is underway at the spot of the accident. The capsized bogies have been removed and the work of connecting the track is going on from one side.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-coromandel-express-derails-near-bahanaga-station-in-odisha-several-injured-599787">PM Modi assures treatment of injured, says ‘guilty’ won’t be spared</a></strong></p>

<p>"Capsized bogies have been removed...Two bogies of goods train also have been removed...work of connecting track is going on from one side...will finish the work as soon as possible," Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO), of South Eastern Railway, Aditya Kumar, told news agency ANI.</p>

<h2><strong>Odisha train tragedy: Survivors recount horror</strong></h2>

<p>Mizan Ul Haq, a resident of Bardhaman in West Bengal state, was in one of the coaches at the rear of the train.</p>

<p>"The train was running at a high speed. Around 7 pm, a loud sound was heard and everything started moving in all directions. I fell down on the floor from the upper berth as the lights went off inside the compartment," Haq, who was returning home from work in Karnataka on a holiday, told Press Trust of India (PTI).</p>

<p>He said that somehow, he managed to come out of the damaged coach.</p>

<p>"It was ghastly, many people with grave injuries were lying around beside mangled coaches," Haq, who was lucky to have escaped with minor injuries, told PTI at Howrah station, where medical aid, food and other assistance were provided by the railway authorities to the surviving passengers.</p>

<p>Rekha, a Bengaluru resident coming to Kolkata for a visit, said that she was in a coach ahead of the wagons that got derailed.</p>

<p>"It was total chaos initially. We got off our compartment out of fear and sat in the nearby fields in the darkness till our train finally started for Howrah in the wee hours," she said.</p>

<p>Another Bardhaman resident, a carpenter who works in Bengaluru, said he was injured in the chest, feet and head when the coach in which he was travelling turned turtle.</p>

<p>"We had to break open the windows and jump out of the compartment to save ourselves," he said, adding he saw many dead bodies after the accident.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi takes stock of situation, lauds locals for courage, compassion</strong></h2>

<p>Hours after India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Balasore to take stock of the ground situation at the site of one of the worst railway tragedies, he took to Twitter and lauded 'courage and compassion' shown by the locals.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-train-tragedy-locals-in-odishas-balasore-queue-up-all-night-to-donate-blood-for-wounded-599885">India train tragedy: Locals in Odisha's Balasore queue up all-night to donate blood for wounded</a></strong></p>

<p>"The courage and compassion shown by the people of our nation in the face of adversity is truly inspiring. As soon as the train mishap took place in Odisha, people immersed themselves in assisting rescue ops. Several people lined up to donate blood," Modi said.</p>

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The death toll from the triple-train crash in Balasore district of eastern India's Odisha state was revised to 275, with the close relatives of the victims scrambling through a local school-turned-temporary mortuary to identify the bodies.

The death toll from the triple-train crash in Balasore district of eastern India's Odisha state was revised to 275, with the close relatives of the victims scrambling through a local school-turned-temporary mortuary to identify the bodies. So far, India's deadliest railway tragedy in more than 30 years has left nearly 1,000 people injured. Meanwhile, the restoration work is underway at the spot of the accident. The capsized bogies have been removed and the work of connecting the track is going on from one side. Also read | PM Modi assures treatment of injured, says ‘guilty’ won’t be spared "Capsized bogies have been removed...Two bogies of goods train also have been removed...work of connecting track is going on from one side...will finish the work as soon as possible," Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO), of South Eastern Railway, Aditya Kumar, told news agency ANI. Odisha train tragedy: Survivors recount horror Mizan Ul Haq, a resident of Bardhaman in West Bengal state, was in one of the coaches at the rear of the train. "The train was running at a high speed. Around 7 pm, a loud sound was heard and everything started moving in all directions. I fell down on the floor from the upper berth as the lights went off inside the compartment," Haq, who was returning home from work in Karnataka on a holiday, told Press Trust of India (PTI). He said that somehow, he managed to come out of the damaged coach. "It was ghastly, many people with grave injuries were lying around beside mangled coaches," Haq, who was lucky to have escaped with minor injuries, told PTI at Howrah station, where medical aid, food and other assistance were provided by the railway authorities to the surviving passengers. Rekha, a Bengaluru resident coming to Kolkata for a visit, said that she was in a coach ahead of the wagons that got derailed. "It was total chaos initially. We got off our compartment out of fear and sat in the nearby fields in the darkness till our train finally started for Howrah in the wee hours," she said. Another Bardhaman resident, a carpenter who works in Bengaluru, said he was injured in the chest, feet and head when the coach in which he was travelling turned turtle. "We had to break open the windows and jump out of the compartment to save ourselves," he said, adding he saw many dead bodies after the accident. Modi takes stock of situation, lauds locals for courage, compassion Hours after India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Balasore to take stock of the ground situation at the site of one of the worst railway tragedies, he took to Twitter and lauded 'courage and compassion' shown by the locals. Also read | India train tragedy: Locals in Odisha's Balasore queue up all-night to donate blood for wounded "The courage and compassion shown by the people of our nation in the face of adversity is truly inspiring. As soon as the train mishap took place in Odisha, people immersed themselves in assisting rescue ops. Several people lined up to donate blood," Modi said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Odisha train crash: Survivors recount horror; restoration work begins as PM lauds locals’ courage, compassion

<p>Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan began his third decade in power by replacing almost all members of his erstwhile cabinet, except for the ministers for health and culture. The changes made, especially in foreign and finance portfolios, reflect the country's economic concerns and relations with the West as topping the re-elected president's agenda.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incumbent president stretched his rule into his 21st year last Sunday after winning an unprecedented runoff vote against opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Erdogan’s new cabinet: The foreign policy trajectory</strong></h2>

<p>The president has named intelligence chief Hakan Fidan, also a former soldier, as the new foreign minister.</p>

<p>Fidan has been described as one of Erdogan’s closest aides. He headed the National Intelligence Organisation (MIT) since 2010 and before that was an adviser to Erdogan in the prime minister’s office.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch | Turkey's Erdogan wins historic third term</strong></p>

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<p>Fidan is known to be an accommodative face towards the defiant pro-Kurdish groups in Turkey.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-chief-to-visit-turkey-amid-push-for-sweden-bid-for-bloc-membership-599702">NATO chief to visit Turkey, push Erdogan for ratification of Sweden’s bloc membership</a></strong></p>

<p>While the immediate concerns of the West have been towards breaking off Turkey's sustained resistance to Sweden's entry into the US-led NATO, Erdogan's choice of foreign minister reflects that his focus is more on concerns at home.</p>

<h2><strong>Erdogan’s new cabinet: The challenge to revamp economy</strong></h2>

<p>Erdogan has named ex-banker Mehmet Simsek as treasury and finance minister in his new cabinet. Simsek served as finance minister previously between 2009 and 2015 and was deputy prime minister in charge of the economy until 2018. Simsek is known to be&nbsp;opposed to Erdogan's policy of heavy state control of markets and maintaining low interest rates despite rising inflation. Turkey's inflation stood at a whopping 44 per cent in May while the Lira has lost more than 10 per cent of its value against the dollar since the beginning of 2023.</p>

<p>Shortly after winning country's first-ever presidential runoff vote last Sunday, Erdogan touched upon the central theme of the elections and said that his new administration will focus on bringing down inflation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The most urgent issue of the coming days is to eliminate the problems arising from the price increases caused by inflation and to compensate for welfare losses," the president said.</p>

<h2><b>Erdogan's new cabinet: The full list</b></h2>

<p>This is the full list of Erdogan’s new cabinet:</p>

<p>Vice President: Cevdet Yilmaz</p>

<p>Foreign Minister: Hakan Fidan</p>

<p>Treasury and Finance Minister: Mehmet Simsek</p>

<p>Defence Minister: Yasar Guler</p>

<p>Interior Minister: Ali Yerlikaya</p>

<p>Education Minister: Yusuf Tekin</p>

<p>Justice Minister: Yilmaz Tunc</p>

<p>Family and Social Services Minister: Mahinur Ozdemir Goktas</p>

<p>Labour and Social Security Minister: Vedat Isikhan</p>

<p>Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Minister: Mehmet Ozhaseki</p>

<p>Energy and Natural Resources Minister: Alparslan Bayraktar</p>

<p>Youth and Sports Minister: Osman Askin Bak</p>

<p>Culture and Tourism Minister: Mehmet Nuri Ersoy</p>

<p>Health Minister: Fahrettin Koca</p>

<p>Industry and Technology Minister: Mehmet Fatih Kacir</p>

<p>Agriculture and Forestry Minister: Ibrahim Yumakli</p>

<p>Trade Minister: Omer Bolat</p>

<p>Transport and Infrastructure Minister: Abdulkadir Uraloglu<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan began his third decade in power by replacing almost all members of his erstwhile cabinet, except for the ministers for health and culture.

Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan began his third decade in power by replacing almost all members of his erstwhile cabinet, except for the ministers for health and culture. The changes made, especially in foreign and finance portfolios, reflect the country's economic concerns and relations with the West as topping the re-elected president's agenda. The incumbent president stretched his rule into his 21st year last Sunday after winning an unprecedented runoff vote against opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu. Erdogan’s new cabinet: The foreign policy trajectory The president has named intelligence chief Hakan Fidan, also a former soldier, as the new foreign minister. Fidan has been described as one of Erdogan’s closest aides. He headed the National Intelligence Organisation (MIT) since 2010 and before that was an adviser to Erdogan in the prime minister’s office. Also watch | Turkey's Erdogan wins historic third term × Fidan is known to be an accommodative face towards the defiant pro-Kurdish groups in Turkey. Also read | NATO chief to visit Turkey, push Erdogan for ratification of Sweden’s bloc membership While the immediate concerns of the West have been towards breaking off Turkey's sustained resistance to Sweden's entry into the US-led NATO, Erdogan's choice of foreign minister reflects that his focus is more on concerns at home. Erdogan’s new cabinet: The challenge to revamp economy Erdogan has named ex-banker Mehmet Simsek as treasury and finance minister in his new cabinet. Simsek served as finance minister previously between 2009 and 2015 and was deputy prime minister in charge of the economy until 2018. Simsek is known to be opposed to Erdogan's policy of heavy state control of markets and maintaining low interest rates despite rising inflation. Turkey's inflation stood at a whopping 44 per cent in May while the Lira has lost more than 10 per cent of its value against the dollar since the beginning of 2023. Shortly after winning country's first-ever presidential runoff vote last Sunday, Erdogan touched upon the central theme of the elections and said that his new administration will focus on bringing down inflation. "The most urgent issue of the coming days is to eliminate the problems arising from the price increases caused by inflation and to compensate for welfare losses," the president said. Erdogan's new cabinet: The full list This is the full list of Erdogan’s new cabinet: Vice President: Cevdet Yilmaz Foreign Minister: Hakan Fidan Treasury and Finance Minister: Mehmet Simsek Defence Minister: Yasar Guler Interior Minister: Ali Yerlikaya Education Minister: Yusuf Tekin Justice Minister: Yilmaz Tunc Family and Social Services Minister: Mahinur Ozdemir Goktas Labour and Social Security Minister: Vedat Isikhan Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Minister: Mehmet Ozhaseki Energy and Natural Resources Minister: Alparslan Bayraktar Youth and Sports Minister: Osman Askin Bak Culture and Tourism Minister: Mehmet Nuri Ersoy Health Minister: Fahrettin Koca Industry and Technology Minister: Mehmet Fatih Kacir Agriculture and Forestry Minister: Ibrahim Yumakli Trade Minister: Omer Bolat Transport and Infrastructure Minister: Abdulkadir Uraloglu (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Turkey: Erdogan replaces nearly all faces in cabinet with focus on economy, foreign policy

<p>Pop icon Taylor Swift is scheduled to sing for two shows in November in inflation-hit Argentina. The tickets in the standing-room only area closest to the stage where Swift will sing are going for 75,000 pesos, or about $153.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an interesting intersection of finance and entertainment, it is worth noting that inflation in Argentina has topped 100 per cent according to the latest available figures. For the Swifties, as Taylor Swift fans like to describe themselves, the lesson on high inflation and exchange rates has become an important element of affording to watch the pop icon live in a concert.</p>

<h2><strong>How will Argentinian Swifties afford to watch Taylor sing?</strong></h2>

<p>For tens of thousands in Argentina, the final cost of Taylor Swift's concert ticket may end up even less than $153.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/selena-gomez-says-shes-proud-to-know-bestie-taylor-swift-pens-loving-note-578458">Selena Gomez says she's proud to know 'bestie' Taylor Swift; pens loving note</a></strong></p>

<p>This is because the customers of country's Banco Patagonia bank -- if they pace up to be among the first 24,000 Swifties buying tickets for Taylor Swift shows -- can pay in six installments the cost of tickets free of interest, according to the ticket sale website AllAccess.com.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>But how would first 24,000 tickets cost less than $153?</strong></h2>

<p>In Argentina, there is a formal currency exchange rate and an informal one. As per the formal currency exchange rate, a dollar is worth 241 pesos against informal exchange rate's 490 pesos per dollar cost.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Credit cards are tied to Argentina’s official exchange rate which is overvalued due to strict government controls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To take advantage of the gap between exchange rates, pay installments without interest are also a popular strategy for locals to partially shield themselves from high inflation and currency devaluations.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>But isn't there an economic crisis in Argentina?</strong></h2>

<p>Yes there is. But despite that Argentines are known for splurging on tickets when big shows arrive.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Coldplay sold out 10 shows in Buenos Aires last year, more concerts in any other single city during their worldwide tour.</p>

<p>Tickets to the general public in Argentina go on sale June 6.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Explore Taylor Swift's 'love story' with costumes</strong></p>

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<p>Taylor Swift’s concerts have faced ire on social media for being too pricey. Some of the cheapest seats at this week’s concerts in Chicago are above $700 in the secondary market.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For other US shows, tickets that were originally sold for as little as $49 plus fees are often going for more than $1,500 in reseller apps.</p>

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Pop icon Taylor Swift is scheduled to sing for two shows in November in inflation-hit Argentina. The tickets in the standing-room only area closest to the stage where Swift will sing are going for 75,000 pesos, or about $153.

Pop icon Taylor Swift is scheduled to sing for two shows in November in inflation-hit Argentina. The tickets in the standing-room only area closest to the stage where Swift will sing are going for 75,000 pesos, or about $153. In an interesting intersection of finance and entertainment, it is worth noting that inflation in Argentina has topped 100 per cent according to the latest available figures. For the Swifties, as Taylor Swift fans like to describe themselves, the lesson on high inflation and exchange rates has become an important element of affording to watch the pop icon live in a concert. How will Argentinian Swifties afford to watch Taylor sing? For tens of thousands in Argentina, the final cost of Taylor Swift's concert ticket may end up even less than $153. Also read | Selena Gomez says she's proud to know 'bestie' Taylor Swift; pens loving note This is because the customers of country's Banco Patagonia bank -- if they pace up to be among the first 24,000 Swifties buying tickets for Taylor Swift shows -- can pay in six installments the cost of tickets free of interest, according to the ticket sale website AllAccess.com. But how would first 24,000 tickets cost less than $153? In Argentina, there is a formal currency exchange rate and an informal one. As per the formal currency exchange rate, a dollar is worth 241 pesos against informal exchange rate's 490 pesos per dollar cost. Credit cards are tied to Argentina’s official exchange rate which is overvalued due to strict government controls. To take advantage of the gap between exchange rates, pay installments without interest are also a popular strategy for locals to partially shield themselves from high inflation and currency devaluations. But isn't there an economic crisis in Argentina? Yes there is. But despite that Argentines are known for splurging on tickets when big shows arrive. Coldplay sold out 10 shows in Buenos Aires last year, more concerts in any other single city during their worldwide tour. Tickets to the general public in Argentina go on sale June 6. Also watch | Explore Taylor Swift's 'love story' with costumes × Taylor Swift’s concerts have faced ire on social media for being too pricey. Some of the cheapest seats at this week’s concerts in Chicago are above $700 in the secondary market. For other US shows, tickets that were originally sold for as little as $49 plus fees are often going for more than $1,500 in reseller apps. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

How Taylor Swift's fans in Argentina will dodge inflation to see her sing in November concert

<p>An on-leave personnel of&nbsp;India's National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) played a crucial role in alerting emergency services about one of country’s deadliest rail&nbsp;accidents in Balasore, Odisha on Saturday evening.</p>

<p>The personnel, identified as Venkatesh NK, was&nbsp;on-board the Coromandel Express.</p>

<p>The accident occurred when the Shalimar-Chennai Central Coromandel Express entered the wrong track and collided with a stationary goods train.</p>

<p>The impact caused the coaches to scatter, with some ending up on an adjacent track.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/odisha-train-crash-survivors-recount-horror-restoration-work-begins-as-modi-lauds-humane-reaction-of-locals-600256">Odisha train crash: Survivors recount horror; restoration work begins as Modi lauds humane reaction of locals</a></strong></p>

<p>Shortly after, the Bengaluru-Howrah Superfast Express, traveling at high speed, rammed into the scattered coaches, resulting in derailment and consequent devastation.</p>

<p>This incident stands as the most catastrophic rail accident in India in nearly three decades, claiming the lives of at least 292 people and leaving over 1,100 injured.</p>

<h2><strong>How Venkatesh NK gave rescue teams their 'Golden&nbsp;Hour'?</strong></h2>

<p>As the Coromandel Express train crashed in Balasore,&nbsp;Venkatesh NK&nbsp;immediately notified his senior inspector in the NDRF and shared the live location of the accident site through WhatsApp, enabling the prompt arrival of first rescue teams.</p>

<p>Venkatesh NK himself&nbsp;had a narrow escape as his coach, B-7, derailed but did not collide with the coaches ahead of it.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Odisha Train Crash | PM Modi: All possible assistance being given to those affected</strong></p>

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<p>Venkatesh, who was on seat number 58 in third AC coach B-7, acted swiftly by assisting passengers and ensuring their safety.</p>

<p>He credited the locals, particularly a medical shop owner, as the true heroes, as they provided immediate aid to the victims using the resources available to them.</p>

<p>Venkatesh, currently aboard a relief train bound for Chennai, recounted feeling a massive jolt and witnessing passengers in his coach falling down.</p>

<p>He quickly helped the first passenger and then proceeded to assist others.</p>

<p>In pitch dark, the on-leave NDRF personnel reportedly located injured and trapped passengers and brought them to safety.</p>

<p>The locals also used their mobile phones and torches until the rescue teams arrived.</p>

<p>The jawan's timely alert and the subsequent response by the NDRF and the local administration played a crucial role in coordinating rescue efforts. Venkatesh's phone call was likely the first notification received by the NDRF, leading to the subsequent mobilisation of rescue teams.</p>

<p>NDRF Deputy Inspector General Mohsen Shahedi said that an NDRF jawan is always on duty, regardless of whether they are in uniform or not.</p>

<p>The first NDRF and Odisha state rescue teams took approximately an hour to reach the accident site after the incident occurred around 7 pm on Friday.</p>

<p>During this critical "golden hour," the NDRF rescuer saved multiple lives.</p>

<p>Golden Hour is the period immediately following a traumatic injury, which is deemed&nbsp;crucial for prompt medical and surgical intervention to prevent fatalities.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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An on-leave personnel of India's National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) played a crucial role in alerting emergency services about one of country’s deadliest rail accidents in Balasore, Odisha on Saturday evening.

An on-leave personnel of India's National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) played a crucial role in alerting emergency services about one of country’s deadliest rail accidents in Balasore, Odisha on Saturday evening. The personnel, identified as Venkatesh NK, was on-board the Coromandel Express. The accident occurred when the Shalimar-Chennai Central Coromandel Express entered the wrong track and collided with a stationary goods train. The impact caused the coaches to scatter, with some ending up on an adjacent track. Also read | Odisha train crash: Survivors recount horror; restoration work begins as Modi lauds humane reaction of locals Shortly after, the Bengaluru-Howrah Superfast Express, traveling at high speed, rammed into the scattered coaches, resulting in derailment and consequent devastation. This incident stands as the most catastrophic rail accident in India in nearly three decades, claiming the lives of at least 292 people and leaving over 1,100 injured. How Venkatesh NK gave rescue teams their 'Golden Hour'? As the Coromandel Express train crashed in Balasore, Venkatesh NK immediately notified his senior inspector in the NDRF and shared the live location of the accident site through WhatsApp, enabling the prompt arrival of first rescue teams. Venkatesh NK himself had a narrow escape as his coach, B-7, derailed but did not collide with the coaches ahead of it. Also watch | Odisha Train Crash | PM Modi: All possible assistance being given to those affected × Venkatesh, who was on seat number 58 in third AC coach B-7, acted swiftly by assisting passengers and ensuring their safety. He credited the locals, particularly a medical shop owner, as the true heroes, as they provided immediate aid to the victims using the resources available to them. Venkatesh, currently aboard a relief train bound for Chennai, recounted feeling a massive jolt and witnessing passengers in his coach falling down. He quickly helped the first passenger and then proceeded to assist others. In pitch dark, the on-leave NDRF personnel reportedly located injured and trapped passengers and brought them to safety. The locals also used their mobile phones and torches until the rescue teams arrived. The jawan's timely alert and the subsequent response by the NDRF and the local administration played a crucial role in coordinating rescue efforts. Venkatesh's phone call was likely the first notification received by the NDRF, leading to the subsequent mobilisation of rescue teams. NDRF Deputy Inspector General Mohsen Shahedi said that an NDRF jawan is always on duty, regardless of whether they are in uniform or not. The first NDRF and Odisha state rescue teams took approximately an hour to reach the accident site after the incident occurred around 7 pm on Friday. During this critical "golden hour," the NDRF rescuer saved multiple lives. Golden Hour is the period immediately following a traumatic injury, which is deemed crucial for prompt medical and surgical intervention to prevent fatalities. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India train crash: On-leave disaster response personnel sent first alert, rescued many during 'golden hour'

<p>A recent drone attack in the heart of Russian capital Moscow has put the spotlight on a set of properties owned by the Kremlin-linked associates. The drone attack along Rublevka highway on May 30, 2023 resulted in a strong verbal reaction from President Putin.</p>

<p>"They are provoking us to mirror their actions," Putin said.</p>

<p>What has been reportedly spotted as important is the intended target of May 30 drone attacks in Moscow.</p>

<h2><strong>The 'Tsar village' in Moscow</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin created an elite hotspot of properties, dubbed as 'Tsar's village', for his daughters and ex-wife around his official residence in western Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report in The Times, the four mansions and Russian president's house are located along the Rublevka highway, a wealthy neighbourhood. The neighbourhood is reportedly home to government officials, celebrities and tycoons.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Rare drone attack in Russian capital city Moscow, Ukrainian terrorists blamed</strong></p>

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<p>The Times report adds that the details of the residences come from a leak of emails between Katerina Tikhonova, 36, the younger of Putin’s two daughters, and Kirill Shamalov, 41, her ex-husband.</p>

<p>The two were married from 2013 to about 2016.</p>

<p>In the leaked e-mails, the erstwhile couple discuss renovations costing up to $9 million.</p>

<h2><strong>The House of Putin's ex-wife Lyudmila Ocheretnaya</strong></h2>

<p>Lyudmila Ocheretnaya, 65, Putin’s ex-wife also reportedly finds a place in the "Tsar’s village".</p>

<p>She and Putin announced their divorce in June 2013.</p>

<p>It is unclear whether the Ukrainian drones were targeting Putin’s residence or other government-linked buildings.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

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A recent drone attack in the heart of Russian capital Moscow has put the spotlight on a set of properties owned by the Kremlin-linked associates. The drone attack along Rublevka highway on May 30, 2023 resulted in a strong verbal reaction from President Putin.

A recent drone attack in the heart of Russian capital Moscow has put the spotlight on a set of properties owned by the Kremlin-linked associates. The drone attack along Rublevka highway on May 30, 2023 resulted in a strong verbal reaction from President Putin. "They are provoking us to mirror their actions," Putin said. What has been reportedly spotted as important is the intended target of May 30 drone attacks in Moscow. The 'Tsar village' in Moscow Russian President Vladimir Putin created an elite hotspot of properties, dubbed as 'Tsar's village', for his daughters and ex-wife around his official residence in western Moscow. According to a report in The Times, the four mansions and Russian president's house are located along the Rublevka highway, a wealthy neighbourhood. The neighbourhood is reportedly home to government officials, celebrities and tycoons. Also watch | Rare drone attack in Russian capital city Moscow, Ukrainian terrorists blamed × The Times report adds that the details of the residences come from a leak of emails between Katerina Tikhonova, 36, the younger of Putin’s two daughters, and Kirill Shamalov, 41, her ex-husband. The two were married from 2013 to about 2016. In the leaked e-mails, the erstwhile couple discuss renovations costing up to $9 million. The House of Putin's ex-wife Lyudmila Ocheretnaya Lyudmila Ocheretnaya, 65, Putin’s ex-wife also reportedly finds a place in the "Tsar’s village". She and Putin announced their divorce in June 2013. It is unclear whether the Ukrainian drones were targeting Putin’s residence or other government-linked buildings. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Did Ukrainian drones allegedly target luxury homes of Putin's ex-wife and daughters?

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