From the front lines of war between Russia and Ukraine, Moscow claimed the 'liberation' of Soledar. The Kremlin's claim was subsequently denied by Kyiv. Russia attempted to up the ante in its favour by saying that Belarus too may enter the war in Moscow's favour if it "invades" either country. Meanwhile, as many as 900 million (90 Crore) Chinese people have been infected with Covid amid China's ongoing crisis to control the spread of the virus more than a month after doing away with most pandemic-related restrictions, according to a study by Peking University.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-updates-ukraine-war-russia-takes-completed-liberation-of-soledar-552324">Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow claims it has completed 'liberation' of Soledar, Kyiv denies</a>

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Russian forces had taken control of the salt-mining town of&nbsp;Soledar&nbsp;in eastern Ukraine. The ministry said that the troops have captured&nbsp;the town, which has been the focus of heavy fighting and bombardment in recent days.&nbsp;Previously, Ukraine said that its forces were still holding out in&nbsp;Soledar&nbsp;after a "hot" night of fighting.&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky in a video address on Thursday thanked two Ukrainian units in Soledar. He claimed that Ukraine&nbsp;"are holding their positions and inflicting significant losses on the enemy".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-may-enter-russia-ukraine-war-if-invaded-claims-moscow-552381">Belarus may enter ongoing Russia-Ukraine war if ‘invaded’, claims Moscow</a>

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Russia has&nbsp;warned that Belarus may also enter the ongoing war in Ukraine if Kyiv decides to "invade" either country. Russian foreign ministry official said on Friday that Belarus and Russia's joint drills aimed at preventing escalation.&nbsp;In an interview with state media, foreign ministry official Aleksey Polishchuk warned that Belarus may join the Ukraine conflict if it or Russia were invaded.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/about-900-million-in-china-infected-with-covid-chinese-university-study-552374">About 900 million in China infected with Covid: Chinese university study</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/13/325369-untitled-design-14.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

As many as 900 million (90 Crore) Chinese people have been infected with Covid amid China's ongoing crisis to control the spread of the virus more than a month after doing away with most pandemic-related restrictions, according to a study by Peking University. This makes up for 64 per cent of the country's population.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trump-organization-to-be-senteced-for-15-year-tax-fraud-report-552407">New York judge fines Trump Organization $1.6 million for tax fraud</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/28/321467-untitled-design-73.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

A New York judge on Friday (January 13) fined former United States President Donald Trump's company Trump Organization $1.6 million after it was convicted of scheming to defraud tax authorities for 15 years. The sentence was imposed by Justice Juan Merchan of the Manhattan criminal court after jurors found two affiliates of the company guilty of 17 criminal charges in December last year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-economy-registers-01-per-cent-increase-in-november-still-recession-looms-552346">UK economy registers 0.1 per cent increase in November; still, recession looms</a>

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An unexpected growth was registered in the economy of the UK in November as people splurged during the World Cup, stated official data on Friday as analysts warned the country may still face recession because of a crisis due to the high cost of living.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-saudi-arabia-close-on-restoration-of-bilateral-ties-after-latest-talks-552401">Iran-Saudi Arabia close on restoration of bilateral ties after latest talks</a>

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Seven years after Iran cut off its diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia over Riyadh's execution of Shiite cleric Nimr al-Nimr, a restoration of Tehran-Riyadh relations may very well take place. The possibility of bilateral restoration of relations between two west asian rivals is expected after Iran's foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said that two sides are looking for ways to normalise relations between the two sides.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-names-oil-boss-al-jaber-to-head-cop28-activists-criticise-appointment-552349">UAE makes oil boss Al Jaber head of COP28; activists say its worse than fox guarding the henhouse</a>

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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) said on Thursday (January 12) that Sultan Al Jaber, the head of the country's Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), would lead this year's COP28 climate summit. The UAE, which is a major Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) oil exporter, will be the second Arab country to host the climate summit after Egypt did last year. The summit will be held in November and December in Dubai.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-mv-ganga-vilas-what-would-the-worlds-longest-river-cruise-would-mean-for-travel-enthusiasts-552313">India's MV Ganga Vilas Cruise: What would the world's longest river cruise mean for travel enthusiasts?</a>

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The world's longest river cruise, the MV Ganga Vilas, was launched in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi via video conference.&nbsp;The first cruise ship ever built in India, the MV Ganga Vilas, will set sail from the holy town of Varanasi with 32 Swiss tourists on board and travel via Bangladesh to Dibrugarh in Assam.&nbsp;Addressing the event through video conferencing, PM Modi said: “The beginning of the world’s longest river cruise service on river Ganga is a landmark moment. It will herald a new age of tourism in India.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-to-own-a-franchise-in-wipl-owners-confirm-interest-552370">Manchester United to own a franchise in WIPL? Owners confirm interest</a>

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The craze for the forthcoming inaugural Women's IPL is at an all-time high. With the continuous rise of the women's cricket in India, the BCCI is set to host the first-ever Women's IPL in March, 2023. Ahead of the showpiece event, the Manchester United owners, who had tried their hand to acquire an Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise in 2021, confirmed their interest in the forthcoming women's tournament.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-lakadbaggha-movie-review-anshuman-jhas-vigilante-movie-is-flawed-but-fun-552256">'Lakadbaggha' movie review: Anshuman Jha's vigilante movie is flawed but fun</a>

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Victor Mukherjee's 'Lakadbaggha' ('hyena' in English) has Anshuman Jha portraying Arjun Bakshi, a young man in Kolkata who is a deliveryman by day and a hooded vigilante by night who protects and fights for stray dogs. He prowls the dingy streets of the city, looking for dogs to pet and scare off anyone harassing them using his martial arts skills. In his own words, he wants to be a voice for the voiceless. For all intents and purposes, he is Batman, only for the animals. And similar to the Dark Knight, he has a strict code of not killing, only incapacitation. Though, there is one difference: he does not purposely pick fights and attacks only when he is left with no other option.&nbsp;

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From the front lines of war between Russia and Ukraine, Moscow claimed the 'liberation' of Soledar. The Kremlin's claim was subsequently denied by Kyiv. Russia attempted to up the ante in its favour by saying that Belarus too may enter the war in Moscow's favour if it "invades" either country.

From the front lines of war between Russia and Ukraine, Moscow claimed the 'liberation' of Soledar. The Kremlin's claim was subsequently denied by Kyiv. Russia attempted to up the ante in its favour by saying that Belarus too may enter the war in Moscow's favour if it "invades" either country. Meanwhile, as many as 900 million (90 Crore) Chinese people have been infected with Covid amid China's ongoing crisis to control the spread of the virus more than a month after doing away with most pandemic-related restrictions, according to a study by Peking University. Click on the headlines to read more: Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow claims it has completed 'liberation' of Soledar, Kyiv denies Russian forces had taken control of the salt-mining town of Soledar in eastern Ukraine. The ministry said that the troops have captured the town, which has been the focus of heavy fighting and bombardment in recent days. Previously, Ukraine said that its forces were still holding out in Soledar after a "hot" night of fighting. President Volodymyr Zelensky in a video address on Thursday thanked two Ukrainian units in Soledar. He claimed that Ukraine "are holding their positions and inflicting significant losses on the enemy". Belarus may enter ongoing Russia-Ukraine war if ‘invaded’, claims Moscow Russia has warned that Belarus may also enter the ongoing war in Ukraine if Kyiv decides to "invade" either country. Russian foreign ministry official said on Friday that Belarus and Russia's joint drills aimed at preventing escalation. In an interview with state media, foreign ministry official Aleksey Polishchuk warned that Belarus may join the Ukraine conflict if it or Russia were invaded. About 900 million in China infected with Covid: Chinese university study As many as 900 million (90 Crore) Chinese people have been infected with Covid amid China's ongoing crisis to control the spread of the virus more than a month after doing away with most pandemic-related restrictions, according to a study by Peking University. This makes up for 64 per cent of the country's population. New York judge fines Trump Organization $1.6 million for tax fraud A New York judge on Friday (January 13) fined former United States President Donald Trump's company Trump Organization $1.6 million after it was convicted of scheming to defraud tax authorities for 15 years. The sentence was imposed by Justice Juan Merchan of the Manhattan criminal court after jurors found two affiliates of the company guilty of 17 criminal charges in December last year. UK economy registers 0.1 per cent increase in November; still, recession looms An unexpected growth was registered in the economy of the UK in November as people splurged during the World Cup, stated official data on Friday as analysts warned the country may still face recession because of a crisis due to the high cost of living. Iran-Saudi Arabia close on restoration of bilateral ties after latest talks Seven years after Iran cut off its diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia over Riyadh's execution of Shiite cleric Nimr al-Nimr, a restoration of Tehran-Riyadh relations may very well take place. The possibility of bilateral restoration of relations between two west asian rivals is expected after Iran's foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said that two sides are looking for ways to normalise relations between the two sides. UAE makes oil boss Al Jaber head of COP28; activists say its worse than fox guarding the henhouse The United Arab Emirates (UAE) said on Thursday (January 12) that Sultan Al Jaber, the head of the country's Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), would lead this year's COP28 climate summit. The UAE, which is a major Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) oil exporter, will be the second Arab country to host the climate summit after Egypt did last year. The summit will be held in November and December in Dubai. India's MV Ganga Vilas Cruise: What would the world's longest river cruise mean for travel enthusiasts? The world's longest river cruise, the MV Ganga Vilas, was launched in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi via video conference. The first cruise ship ever built in India, the MV Ganga Vilas, will set sail from the holy town of Varanasi with 32 Swiss tourists on board and travel via Bangladesh to Dibrugarh in Assam. Addressing the event through video conferencing, PM Modi said: “The beginning of the world’s longest river cruise service on river Ganga is a landmark moment. It will herald a new age of tourism in India.” Manchester United to own a franchise in WIPL? Owners confirm interest The craze for the forthcoming inaugural Women's IPL is at an all-time high. With the continuous rise of the women's cricket in India, the BCCI is set to host the first-ever Women's IPL in March, 2023. Ahead of the showpiece event, the Manchester United owners, who had tried their hand to acquire an Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise in 2021, confirmed their interest in the forthcoming women's tournament. 'Lakadbaggha' movie review: Anshuman Jha's vigilante movie is flawed but fun Victor Mukherjee's 'Lakadbaggha' ('hyena' in English) has Anshuman Jha portraying Arjun Bakshi, a young man in Kolkata who is a deliveryman by day and a hooded vigilante by night who protects and fights for stray dogs. He prowls the dingy streets of the city, looking for dogs to pet and scare off anyone harassing them using his martial arts skills. In his own words, he wants to be a voice for the voiceless. For all intents and purposes, he is Batman, only for the animals. And similar to the Dark Knight, he has a strict code of not killing, only incapacitation. Though, there is one difference: he does not purposely pick fights and attacks only when he is left with no other option. 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.

Top 10 world news: Moscow claims Soledar's 'liberation', 900mn Covid infections in China, and more

Bangladesh's opposition parties led by Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) staged multiple public meetings at several places across Bangladesh as they continued their combined efforts to press Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down and announce fresh elections at the earliest. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has announced countrywide rallies and processions for January 16 to protest against yet-to-be-implemented plan of Dhaka to hike power prices.

Speaking at one of the rallies in Dhaka, announced countrywide rallies and processions for January 16 to press the party’s 10-point demand and protest the government’s plan to hike power prices.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-opposition-mounts-huge-protest-in-dhaka-against-pm-sheikh-hasina-541823">Bangladesh: Opposition stages massive protest against PM Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka</a>

It was said that&nbsp;the programmes will be observed in all metropolitan cities, districts, towns, upazilas and municipality headquarters.

BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said that Prime Minister Hasina led Awami League was clinging to power by using police and bureaucrats. In process, Alamgir claimed that government in Dhaka was snatching peoples voting rights in the past two general elections.

"The people want freedom from this authoritarian regime,"&nbsp;Alamgir said.

What is the BNP demanding?

The BNP is demanding Prime Minister Hasina’s resignation in favour of fresh elections under a caretaker government instead of ruling Awami League. The BNP claims that&nbsp;the polls to be rigged by Sheikh Hasina's administration. Bangladesh is scheduled to&nbsp;hold its next general election in 2024.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-bangladesh-pm-sheikh-hasina-to-meet-top-leadership-water-management-and-security-on-agenda-513210">WION Dispatch | India: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina to meet top leadership</a>

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The BNP boycotted the 2014 and 2018 elections, but under a special provision, it allowed several of its leaders to take part in the last elections. BNP alleged that the elections that put Sheikh Hasina in power in 2018 and before that were rigged.

At a separate rally in the capital, senior BNP leader Mirza Abbas demanded a non-party caretaker government to hold a credible election.

"The time to cling to power by force is over."

Political analysts said the BNP has rallied significant support but the party was rudderless after its chairperson 77-year-old Khaleda Zia was convicted of two graft charges.

A court in 2017 sentenced her to a 17-year jail term and she spent months in prison.

Zia, a three-time Prime Minister,&nbsp;however, was allowed to stay at her home in Dhaka under a special government provision since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and debarred from joining any political activity.

Awami League won't fall: Sheikh Hasina

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday said that "the extreme rightist and leftist groups"&nbsp;were joining hands with the opposition BNP to try to oust her government.

"Now they (BNP) are saying they will wage a movement getting beside them the extreme leftists and rightists as companions," she told a party discussion, Press Trust of India reported.&nbsp;

"Let me tell you (BNP) one thing. The Awami League works for the people and their welfare. Don’t think it will fall if one shakes it. Things are not that easy."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Bangladesh's opposition parties led by Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) staged multiple public meetings at several places across Bangladesh as they continued their combined efforts to press Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down and announce fresh elections at the earliest.

Bangladesh's opposition parties led by Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) staged multiple public meetings at several places across Bangladesh as they continued their combined efforts to press Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down and announce fresh elections at the earliest. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has announced countrywide rallies and processions for January 16 to protest against yet-to-be-implemented plan of Dhaka to hike power prices. Speaking at one of the rallies in Dhaka, announced countrywide rallies and processions for January 16 to press the party’s 10-point demand and protest the government’s plan to hike power prices. ALSO READ | Bangladesh: Opposition stages massive protest against PM Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka It was said that the programmes will be observed in all metropolitan cities, districts, towns, upazilas and municipality headquarters. BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said that Prime Minister Hasina led Awami League was clinging to power by using police and bureaucrats. In process, Alamgir claimed that government in Dhaka was snatching peoples voting rights in the past two general elections. "The people want freedom from this authoritarian regime," Alamgir said. What is the BNP demanding? The BNP is demanding Prime Minister Hasina’s resignation in favour of fresh elections under a caretaker government instead of ruling Awami League. The BNP claims that the polls to be rigged by Sheikh Hasina's administration. Bangladesh is scheduled to hold its next general election in 2024. WATCH | WION Dispatch | India: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina to meet top leadership × The BNP boycotted the 2014 and 2018 elections, but under a special provision, it allowed several of its leaders to take part in the last elections. BNP alleged that the elections that put Sheikh Hasina in power in 2018 and before that were rigged. At a separate rally in the capital, senior BNP leader Mirza Abbas demanded a non-party caretaker government to hold a credible election. "The time to cling to power by force is over." Political analysts said the BNP has rallied significant support but the party was rudderless after its chairperson 77-year-old Khaleda Zia was convicted of two graft charges. A court in 2017 sentenced her to a 17-year jail term and she spent months in prison. Zia, a three-time Prime Minister, however, was allowed to stay at her home in Dhaka under a special government provision since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and debarred from joining any political activity. Awami League won't fall: Sheikh Hasina Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday said that "the extreme rightist and leftist groups" were joining hands with the opposition BNP to try to oust her government. "Now they (BNP) are saying they will wage a movement getting beside them the extreme leftists and rightists as companions," she told a party discussion, Press Trust of India reported. "Let me tell you (BNP) one thing. The Awami League works for the people and their welfare. Don’t think it will fall if one shakes it. Things are not that easy." (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.

Bangladesh: Opposition holds multiple protests, demands PM Sheikh Hasina's resignation

Authorities in the Indian capital New Delhi were alarmed on Thursday after they received a call regarding presence of a 'bomb' in a flight operated by Spicejet airlines. The flight was bound for Maharashtra state's Pune city&nbsp;in Western India from New Delhi.&nbsp;Following a phone call that claimed that there was a bomb on the plane, the SpiceJet flight flying from Delhi to Pune was searched but nothing suspicious was found. As per details, the flight was supposed to take off from Delhi's IGI Airport at 6.30 pm on Thursday (12th January).

The airline officials at Delhi Airport halted the boarding and called the bomb squad on receiving the call about the bomb threat. All the passengers and crew members are safe.

After an initial security drill, Delhi Police officials said that "nothing suspicious" was found in the Delhi-Pune Spicejet flight.

"A call regarding a bomb in Pune-bound SpiceJet flight from Delhi was received before the take-off. CISF &amp; Delhi Police are on alert. Flight is being checked at Delhi Airport," the Delhi Police said.

It added, "So far nothing suspicious has been found but security drill will be followed as per SOP (standard operating procedure)."

Meanwhile, the authorities are also trying to trace the caller.

Earlier on Monday, a bomb scare prompted the emergency landing of a Moscow-Goa chartered flight. The Azur Air flight was checked for over 12 hours before taking off from Gujarat's Jamnagar for its destination. Officials now say that the alleged bomb threat was just a 'hoax call'. 
 
Authorities received the call before the flight's scheduled takeoff from New Delhi.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Authorities in the Indian capital New Delhi were alarmed on Thursday after they received a call regarding presence of a 'bomb' in a flight operated by Spicejet airlines.

Authorities in the Indian capital New Delhi were alarmed on Thursday after they received a call regarding presence of a 'bomb' in a flight operated by Spicejet airlines. The flight was bound for Maharashtra state's Pune city in Western India from New Delhi. Following a phone call that claimed that there was a bomb on the plane, the SpiceJet flight flying from Delhi to Pune was searched but nothing suspicious was found. As per details, the flight was supposed to take off from Delhi's IGI Airport at 6.30 pm on Thursday (12th January). The airline officials at Delhi Airport halted the boarding and called the bomb squad on receiving the call about the bomb threat. All the passengers and crew members are safe. After an initial security drill, Delhi Police officials said that "nothing suspicious" was found in the Delhi-Pune Spicejet flight. "A call regarding a bomb in Pune-bound SpiceJet flight from Delhi was received before the take-off. CISF & Delhi Police are on alert. Flight is being checked at Delhi Airport," the Delhi Police said. It added, "So far nothing suspicious has been found but security drill will be followed as per SOP (standard operating procedure)." Meanwhile, the authorities are also trying to trace the caller. Earlier on Monday, a bomb scare prompted the emergency landing of a Moscow-Goa chartered flight. The Azur Air flight was checked for over 12 hours before taking off from Gujarat's Jamnagar for its destination. Officials now say that the alleged bomb threat was just a 'hoax call'. Authorities received the call before the flight's scheduled takeoff from New Delhi. 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.

Delhi-Pune Spicejet flight searched after bomb threat call, nothing suspicious found

Tokyo on top; US, India dominate list of most punctual airports | In pics

India's annual retail inflation eased to 5.72 per cent&nbsp;in December from 5.88 per cent&nbsp;in the previous month, government data showed on Thursday.&nbsp;The inflation contracted by 0.4 per cent during&nbsp;November-December 2022 period, compared to 0.11 per cent contraction in October-November 2022 period.&nbsp;

The latest inflation figures come against the forecasts by global business trackers that had predicted India's annual inflation to be up to 5.90 per cent for&nbsp;December 2022. The figures come for the month in which India's central bank&nbsp;(on December 7), had raised interest rates by 35 basis points to 6.25 per cent to tame the inflation. 
 
The government has mandated the RBI to sustain retail inflation at 4% &nbsp;— with a margin of 2% on either side. The dip in vegetable prices helped keep food prices low that helped keep inflation in the desired range. 
 
India's inflation rate within central bank's 'tolerance band'

The inflation number has stayed within Reserve Bank of India's&nbsp;"tolerance band" of 2 to 6 per cent. The inflation in December contracted by 0.4 per cent in November-December 2022 period, compared to 0.11 per cent contraction in October-November 2022 period.&nbsp;

Why India's inflation rate declined for second consecutive month?

Reports attribute the declining inflation rate to the easing food prices. The food prices account for nearly 40 per cent of India’s CPI (Consumer Price Index).&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-gdp-growth-forecast-cut-to-7-inflation-interest-rates-to-hit-gdp-533275">India's GDP growth forecast cut to 7%; Inflation, interest rates to hit GDP</a>

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Food inflation for December eased to 4.19 per cent. In November, it was recorded to be 4.67 per cent.

In December’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had retained its inflation forecast of 6.7 per cent for FY23.

"We are extremely watchful of evolving inflation dynamics and look at data almost on a daily basis and we will keep an Arjuna's eye on inflation and we will be ready to act," RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das had said.

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India's annual retail inflation eased to 5.72 per cent in December from 5.88 per cent in the previous month, government data showed on Thursday. The inflation contracted by 0.

India's annual retail inflation eased to 5.72 per cent in December from 5.88 per cent in the previous month, government data showed on Thursday. The inflation contracted by 0.4 per cent during November-December 2022 period, compared to 0.11 per cent contraction in October-November 2022 period. The latest inflation figures come against the forecasts by global business trackers that had predicted India's annual inflation to be up to 5.90 per cent for December 2022. The figures come for the month in which India's central bank (on December 7), had raised interest rates by 35 basis points to 6.25 per cent to tame the inflation. The government has mandated the RBI to sustain retail inflation at 4% — with a margin of 2% on either side. The dip in vegetable prices helped keep food prices low that helped keep inflation in the desired range. India's inflation rate within central bank's 'tolerance band' The inflation number has stayed within Reserve Bank of India's "tolerance band" of 2 to 6 per cent. The inflation in December contracted by 0.4 per cent in November-December 2022 period, compared to 0.11 per cent contraction in October-November 2022 period. Why India's inflation rate declined for second consecutive month? Reports attribute the declining inflation rate to the easing food prices. The food prices account for nearly 40 per cent of India’s CPI (Consumer Price Index). ALSO WATCH | India's GDP growth forecast cut to 7%; Inflation, interest rates to hit GDP × Food inflation for December eased to 4.19 per cent. In November, it was recorded to be 4.67 per cent. In December’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had retained its inflation forecast of 6.7 per cent for FY23. "We are extremely watchful of evolving inflation dynamics and look at data almost on a daily basis and we will keep an Arjuna's eye on inflation and we will be ready to act," RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das had 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.

India's retail inflation shrinks to 5.72 per cent for December 2022 as food prices dip

Microsoft joined a coveted group of counted few companies in the world which is allowing its workers in the United States unlimited paid time off. The world's biggest software company announced that it is doing away with its four-week vacation policy, joining Netflix, Oracle, Salesforce and LinkedIn who have similar policies underlining 'unlimited paid time off' for their employees.&nbsp;

Officially known as "discretionary time off", the policy replaces Microsoft's paid time off model with its new approach to allow employees to take time off as needed. A report in&nbsp;The Verge stated that the new policy authorising discretionary time off will be implemented starting January 16th.&nbsp;

Who will be allowed discretionary time off?

This new policy is available to only salaried Microsoft employees. Hourly workers at Microsoft won’t be offered the policy.&nbsp;

A discretionary paid time off will thus be granted to a salaried Microsoft employee for a noteworthy achievement. This also covers&nbsp;the professionals who are recognised within the organisation for contributions to Microsoft's mission, goals or objectives.&nbsp;

Why discretionary time off?

Microsoft said that how, when, and where its professionals do their jobs has changed dramatically. The move thereby is seen as saving Microsoft's administrative costs, in response to more flexible work schedules that came about in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/microsoft-set-to-invest-10-billion-in-musks-openai-551006">Microsoft set to invest $10 billion in Musk's OpenAI</a>

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"As we have transformed, modernising our vacation policy to a more flexible model was a natural next step," Kathleen Hogan, Microsoft's chief people officer, said in an internal memo, The Verge reported.&nbsp;

In 2020, Microsoft allowed a significant number of its employees to work from home permanently. It also allowed employees to work from home freely for up to 50 per cent of their working week.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/microsoft-and-isro-team-up-to-support-indian-space-tech-startups-549920">Microsoft and ISRO team up to support Indian space-tech startups</a>

Employees working remotely, however, had the option to give up their office space. Instead, the 'touchdown space' at Microsoft was made available.&nbsp;

Employees who opt for the remote work option had to give up their office space, but the touchdown space at Microsoft offices was still made available.

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Microsoft joined a coveted group of counted few companies in the world which is allowing its workers in the United States unlimited paid time off. The world's biggest software company announced that it is doing away with its four-week vacation policy, joining Netflix, Oracle, Salesforce and LinkedIn who have similar policies underlining 'unlimited paid time off' for their employees.

Microsoft joined a coveted group of counted few companies in the world which is allowing its workers in the United States unlimited paid time off. The world's biggest software company announced that it is doing away with its four-week vacation policy, joining Netflix, Oracle, Salesforce and LinkedIn who have similar policies underlining 'unlimited paid time off' for their employees. Officially known as "discretionary time off", the policy replaces Microsoft's paid time off model with its new approach to allow employees to take time off as needed. A report in The Verge stated that the new policy authorising discretionary time off will be implemented starting January 16th. Who will be allowed discretionary time off? This new policy is available to only salaried Microsoft employees. Hourly workers at Microsoft won’t be offered the policy. A discretionary paid time off will thus be granted to a salaried Microsoft employee for a noteworthy achievement. This also covers the professionals who are recognised within the organisation for contributions to Microsoft's mission, goals or objectives. Why discretionary time off? Microsoft said that how, when, and where its professionals do their jobs has changed dramatically. The move thereby is seen as saving Microsoft's administrative costs, in response to more flexible work schedules that came about in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO WATCH | Microsoft set to invest $10 billion in Musk's OpenAI × "As we have transformed, modernising our vacation policy to a more flexible model was a natural next step," Kathleen Hogan, Microsoft's chief people officer, said in an internal memo, The Verge reported. In 2020, Microsoft allowed a significant number of its employees to work from home permanently. It also allowed employees to work from home freely for up to 50 per cent of their working week. ALSO READ | Microsoft and ISRO team up to support Indian space-tech startups Employees working remotely, however, had the option to give up their office space. Instead, the 'touchdown space' at Microsoft was made available. Employees who opt for the remote work option had to give up their office space, but the touchdown space at Microsoft offices was still made available. 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.

Microsoft allows unlimited time off for salaried employees in the US

Pakistan has become the focus of suspicion after a suicide bombing in the heart of Taliban-administered Kabul targeted members of Chinese delegation on&nbsp;January 11. The delegation was due to meet the Taliban officials in the Afghan foreign ministry, when a suicide bomber was seen detonating himself, claiming at least 20 casualties.&nbsp;

Wednesday's&nbsp;attack outside the Afghan foreign ministry was the second in less than a month in which Chinese people living in Afghanistan were principal targets of the Islamic State (Khorasan) group. On December 10, 2022, members of Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamic-states-claims-responsibility-for-kabul-hotel-attack-542558">stormed</a> a hotel frequented by Chinese business people, wounding at least five Chinese nationals.

According to Brigadier (retd.) Arun Sahgal, Executive Director of New Delhi-based Forum for Strategic Initiative, the January 11 attack outside foreign ministry in Kabul highlights that "Taliban political leadership is not fully in control" of the country's state of affairs.&nbsp;

"IS-K does not want Chinese presence and intends to scare away the investments," he added, referring to a 25 year deal signed by Chinese Company, &nbsp;Xinjiang Central Asia Petroleum Corporation for extracting oil from Amu Darya on the Afghan-Uzbek border.

But there is much more to IS-K's intentions to scare away Chinese investments with Islamabad being a central figure of authoritative influence.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/blast-kills-at-least-20-outside-afghanistan-foreign-ministry-in-kabul-551693">Blast kills at least 20 outside Afghanistan Foreign Ministry in Kabul</a>

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Experts point out Pakistan's complicity in enabling the past and ongoing actions by Islamic State (Khorasan) in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Abhijit Iyer-Mitra, senior research fellow at New Delhi-based Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies told WION that Islamic State-Khorasan is "entirely a fabrication of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (IS-I)."

"Time and again it has been proven that Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) is a Pakistani creation," Iyer-Mitra added.

Experts also point out&nbsp;Pakistan's&nbsp;track-record of enabling IS-K actions in Afghanistan, such as the March 2019 attack on a Sikh gurudwara in Kabul. In the investigation into attack which followed, the Afghan intelligence agencies, then administered by democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government, nabbed an IS-K emir.

"When the Afghan intelligence arrested the IS-K's emir Mawlawi Abdullah aka Aslam Farooqui, it turned out that he was a Pakistani," pointed&nbsp;Sridharan Subramanyam, Distinguished Fellow at Chennai Centre for China Studies.&nbsp;

During interrogation by&nbsp;Afghanistan's National Directorate of Security (NDS), it was revealed that IS-K was then controlled by the Pakistan's ISI&nbsp;and Sirajuddin Haqqani.

"It could very well be that the ISI is similarly trying to embarrass the Taliban government now and also spoil the party between the Taliban and China,"&nbsp;Subramanyam added.&nbsp;

Taliban actions on IS-K: Confused, contradictory

The Taliban opened gates of prisons and released the inmates after the dramatic exit of the US forces from Afghanistan in 2021 and subsequent fall of the democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in Kabul.

Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) sources cited by scholar Atal Ahmadzai in his October 2022 research paper indicate that the Taliban released more than 2000 IS-K fighters right before capturing Kabul.&nbsp;

Among the released inmates was the one who carried out a suicide bombing attack at the Kabul airport on August 26, 2021 that killed 170 Afghan civilians and 13 US service members. As IS-K reached its peak of exposure following its attack on Kabul airport, the Taliban launched a campaign against IS-K members. The Taliban campaign against IS-K members included beheadings, drownings and on-the-spot executions, prompting many IS-K members to seek refuge in neighbouring Pakistan.&nbsp;

Afghan and Pakistani Pashtuns serve as the public face of the Islamic State offshoot’s outer layer, scholars have said in the past. This composition allows IS-K members to be mobile across the perilous Af-Pak region towards Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Pakistan's suspected role in IS-K targeting Chinese nationals

Experts also point towards Pakistan's obsession with the idea of 'strategic depth' in the Af-Pak region, which is a military term that refers to&nbsp;internal distance within a state from its Forward Defended Localities (FDLs). Pakistani rulers have called for gaining strategic depth by supporting Taliban, in the hopes of developing advantage against India along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

"The idea of 'strategic depth' is still deeply ingrained in the doctrine of the Pakistani Army," Subramanyam said, adding that the Taliban never accepted Durand Line as conclusive border between Pakistan and Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"The Taliban Deputy PM's latest reminder of the events of December 1971 is especially devastating for the Pakistani Army and the ISI and cannot be swallowed easily," Subramanyam added, pointing out Taliban administration's deputy prime minister&nbsp;Ahmad Yasir's recent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-deputy-pm-mocks-pakistan-by-sharing-picture-of-1971-war-surrender-to-india-548806">reference</a>&nbsp;to Pakistan's 1971 debacle against India after Islamabad&nbsp;said it intends to attack TTP hideouts in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"The worsening Taliban-Pakistan relationship is taking a toll on the Afghan-China front as well," Subramanyam said.&nbsp;

Abhijit Iyer-Mitra, while referring to Pakistani collusion in recent attacks against Chinese citizens in Afghanistan,&nbsp;reasoned that Islamabad&nbsp;does not want "anyone controlling Afghanistan except itself."

"Such attacks are one way to prevent direct Chinese-to-Afghan contact. It is a way of reducing the agency of the Afghan state. It is sending a warning sign to the Chinese, that, 'don't deal with these people without telling us'. Fundamentally everything here in terms of motive and ability only points to Pakistan," Iyer-Mitra told WION.&nbsp;

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Pakistan has become the focus of suspicion after a suicide bombing in the heart of Taliban-administered Kabul targeted members of Chinese delegation on January 11.

Pakistan has become the focus of suspicion after a suicide bombing in the heart of Taliban-administered Kabul targeted members of Chinese delegation on January 11. The delegation was due to meet the Taliban officials in the Afghan foreign ministry, when a suicide bomber was seen detonating himself, claiming at least 20 casualties. Wednesday's attack outside the Afghan foreign ministry was the second in less than a month in which Chinese people living in Afghanistan were principal targets of the Islamic State (Khorasan) group. On December 10, 2022, members of Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) stormed a hotel frequented by Chinese business people, wounding at least five Chinese nationals. According to Brigadier (retd.) Arun Sahgal, Executive Director of New Delhi-based Forum for Strategic Initiative, the January 11 attack outside foreign ministry in Kabul highlights that "Taliban political leadership is not fully in control" of the country's state of affairs. "IS-K does not want Chinese presence and intends to scare away the investments," he added, referring to a 25 year deal signed by Chinese Company, Xinjiang Central Asia Petroleum Corporation for extracting oil from Amu Darya on the Afghan-Uzbek border. But there is much more to IS-K's intentions to scare away Chinese investments with Islamabad being a central figure of authoritative influence. ALSO WATCH | Blast kills at least 20 outside Afghanistan Foreign Ministry in Kabul × Experts point out Pakistan's complicity in enabling the past and ongoing actions by Islamic State (Khorasan) in Afghanistan. Abhijit Iyer-Mitra, senior research fellow at New Delhi-based Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies told WION that Islamic State-Khorasan is "entirely a fabrication of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (IS-I)." "Time and again it has been proven that Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) is a Pakistani creation," Iyer-Mitra added. Experts also point out Pakistan's track-record of enabling IS-K actions in Afghanistan, such as the March 2019 attack on a Sikh gurudwara in Kabul. In the investigation into attack which followed, the Afghan intelligence agencies, then administered by democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government, nabbed an IS-K emir. "When the Afghan intelligence arrested the IS-K's emir Mawlawi Abdullah aka Aslam Farooqui, it turned out that he was a Pakistani," pointed Sridharan Subramanyam, Distinguished Fellow at Chennai Centre for China Studies. During interrogation by Afghanistan's National Directorate of Security (NDS), it was revealed that IS-K was then controlled by the Pakistan's ISI and Sirajuddin Haqqani. "It could very well be that the ISI is similarly trying to embarrass the Taliban government now and also spoil the party between the Taliban and China," Subramanyam added. Taliban actions on IS-K: Confused, contradictory The Taliban opened gates of prisons and released the inmates after the dramatic exit of the US forces from Afghanistan in 2021 and subsequent fall of the democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in Kabul. Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) sources cited by scholar Atal Ahmadzai in his October 2022 research paper indicate that the Taliban released more than 2000 IS-K fighters right before capturing Kabul. Among the released inmates was the one who carried out a suicide bombing attack at the Kabul airport on August 26, 2021 that killed 170 Afghan civilians and 13 US service members. As IS-K reached its peak of exposure following its attack on Kabul airport, the Taliban launched a campaign against IS-K members. The Taliban campaign against IS-K members included beheadings, drownings and on-the-spot executions, prompting many IS-K members to seek refuge in neighbouring Pakistan. Afghan and Pakistani Pashtuns serve as the public face of the Islamic State offshoot’s outer layer, scholars have said in the past. This composition allows IS-K members to be mobile across the perilous Af-Pak region towards Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Pakistan's suspected role in IS-K targeting Chinese nationals Experts also point towards Pakistan's obsession with the idea of 'strategic depth' in the Af-Pak region, which is a military term that refers to internal distance within a state from its Forward Defended Localities (FDLs). Pakistani rulers have called for gaining strategic depth by supporting Taliban, in the hopes of developing advantage against India along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir. "The idea of 'strategic depth' is still deeply ingrained in the doctrine of the Pakistani Army," Subramanyam said, adding that the Taliban never accepted Durand Line as conclusive border between Pakistan and Afghanistan. "The Taliban Deputy PM's latest reminder of the events of December 1971 is especially devastating for the Pakistani Army and the ISI and cannot be swallowed easily," Subramanyam added, pointing out Taliban administration's deputy prime minister Ahmad Yasir's recent reference to Pakistan's 1971 debacle against India after Islamabad said it intends to attack TTP hideouts in Afghanistan. "The worsening Taliban-Pakistan relationship is taking a toll on the Afghan-China front as well," Subramanyam said. Abhijit Iyer-Mitra, while referring to Pakistani collusion in recent attacks against Chinese citizens in Afghanistan, reasoned that Islamabad does not want "anyone controlling Afghanistan except itself." "Such attacks are one way to prevent direct Chinese-to-Afghan contact. It is a way of reducing the agency of the Afghan state. It is sending a warning sign to the Chinese, that, 'don't deal with these people without telling us'. Fundamentally everything here in terms of motive and ability only points to Pakistan," Iyer-Mitra told WION. 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.

Pakistani collusion suspected after attacks on Chinese nationals in Afghanistan: Experts

Countries as super villains, courtesy Artificial Intelligence | See pics

The Group of Seven (G-7) countries will seek to set two price caps on Russian refined products in February. The first one will be for products trading at a premium to crude oil and the other for those trading at a discount, a G7 official was quoted as saying by Reuters.&nbsp;

The G-7 coalition consists of Australia, Canada, Japan and the United States as well as the European Union. The grouping had introduced a $60 per barrel price cap on Russian crude products, starting December 5. This was on top of the European Union's embargo on imports of Russian crude by sea.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-putin-bans-russian-oil-exports-to-countries-that-imposed-price-cap-547472">WION Fineprint: Putin bans Russian oil exports to countries that imposed price cap</a>

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Starting February 5, the G-7 coalition will also impose price caps on diesel and kerosene from Russia, in what the grouping believes will reduce Moscow's ability to finance its 'special military operations' in Ukraine.&nbsp;

Russia to lose $280 million a day starting Feb 5: Research

Russia will lose revenues up to $280 million a day from February 5, when the G-7 price cap gets extended to refined crude products from the country, a report by Finland's&nbsp;Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-may-cut-down-oil-production-in-response-to-eu-imposed-price-cap-545975">Russia may cut down oil production in response to EU-imposed price cap</a>

"The EU’s oil ban and the oil price cap have finally kicked in and the impact is as significant as expected," Lauri Myllyvirta, lead analyst at CREA was quoted as saying by Bloomberg.&nbsp;

The Kremlin, however, said that it is too early to estimate the impact of impending geopolitical actions of February 5, Interfax reported.&nbsp;

Countries such as India, China and Turkey have not joined the G-7 price cap.

Russia has so far shipped $3.76&nbsp;billion of crude on vessels covered by the price cap, the bulk of which is taxed by the government, CREA said.

Other measures put in place alongside a cut of the price cap, such as strengthening penalties for non compliance and additional sanctions on sales of tankers, could cut fossil fuel revenues by a further $242.42 million per day, it said.

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The Group of Seven (G-7) countries will seek to set two price caps on Russian refined products in February. The first one will be for products trading at a premium to crude oil and the other for those trading at a discount, a G7 official was quoted as saying by Reuters.

The Group of Seven (G-7) countries will seek to set two price caps on Russian refined products in February. The first one will be for products trading at a premium to crude oil and the other for those trading at a discount, a G7 official was quoted as saying by Reuters. The G-7 coalition consists of Australia, Canada, Japan and the United States as well as the European Union. The grouping had introduced a $60 per barrel price cap on Russian crude products, starting December 5. This was on top of the European Union's embargo on imports of Russian crude by sea. ALSO WATCH | WION Fineprint: Putin bans Russian oil exports to countries that imposed price cap × Starting February 5, the G-7 coalition will also impose price caps on diesel and kerosene from Russia, in what the grouping believes will reduce Moscow's ability to finance its 'special military operations' in Ukraine. Russia to lose $280 million a day starting Feb 5: Research Russia will lose revenues up to $280 million a day from February 5, when the G-7 price cap gets extended to refined crude products from the country, a report by Finland's Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air said. ALSO READ | Russia may cut down oil production in response to EU-imposed price cap "The EU’s oil ban and the oil price cap have finally kicked in and the impact is as significant as expected," Lauri Myllyvirta, lead analyst at CREA was quoted as saying by Bloomberg. The Kremlin, however, said that it is too early to estimate the impact of impending geopolitical actions of February 5, Interfax reported. Countries such as India, China and Turkey have not joined the G-7 price cap. Russia has so far shipped $3.76 billion of crude on vessels covered by the price cap, the bulk of which is taxed by the government, CREA said. Other measures put in place alongside a cut of the price cap, such as strengthening penalties for non compliance and additional sanctions on sales of tankers, could cut fossil fuel revenues by a further $242.42 million per day, it 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.

Russia may lose $280 million a day starting next month due to G-7 price cap on gas: Report

A team of Chinese researchers have claimed a breakthrough to solve vulnerabilities of mainstream encryption mechanisms. They have claimed that their new, quantum code-breaking algorithm could reduce the scale of a practical quantum computer. The claim has been met with doubts from researchers in the United States.&nbsp;

The team, led by Professor Long Guilu of Tsinghua University, claimed in a yet-to-be-published paper that its new algorithm could reduce the scale of a practical quantum computer to 372 qubits, reported South China Morning Post.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-business-watch-netherlands-plans-curbs-on-china-chip-exports-541148">World Business Watch | Netherlands plans curbs on China chip exports</a>

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This is even less than that of IBM's Osprey which operates with "433 qubits and is nowhere near breaking codes".&nbsp;

Qubit is the basic unit of quantum computing. Just like a bit is the fundamental unit of data storage (which can be expanded to kilobyte, megabyte, gigabyte and so on), qubit is the fundamental unit of quantum computing.

Last year in November, New York-based IBM unveiled a new 433 qubit Quantum processor that has the potential to run complex quantum computations much beyond the capability of any typical computer.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-mulling-expanding-chinese-tech-ban-to-quantum-computing-527337">US mulling expanding Chinese tech ban to quantum computing</a>

Called 'IBM Osprey,' it has the largest qubit count of any IBM quantum processor, more than tripling the 127 qubits on the IBM 'Eagle' processor unveiled in 2021.

Reports citing experts suggest that the latest claim by Chinese scientists has left senior security and quantum experts in the US concerned.

"It might not be correct, but it's not obviously wrong. And there's the nagging question of why the Chinese government didn't classify this research," American cryptographer Bruce Schneier said in a blog post.

Scott Aaronson, director of the quantum information centre at the University of Texas at Austin, said a major problem with the Chinese research paper was its failure to clarify the advantage of quantum technology over classical computers.

"It seems to me that a miracle would be required for the approach here to yield any benefit at all, compared to just running the classical Schnorr's algorithm on your laptop," Aaronson wrote in a blog post.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A team of Chinese researchers have claimed a breakthrough to solve vulnerabilities of mainstream encryption mechanisms. They have claimed that their new, quantum code-breaking algorithm could reduce the scale of a practical quantum computer.

A team of Chinese researchers have claimed a breakthrough to solve vulnerabilities of mainstream encryption mechanisms. They have claimed that their new, quantum code-breaking algorithm could reduce the scale of a practical quantum computer. The claim has been met with doubts from researchers in the United States. The team, led by Professor Long Guilu of Tsinghua University, claimed in a yet-to-be-published paper that its new algorithm could reduce the scale of a practical quantum computer to 372 qubits, reported South China Morning Post. ALSO WATCH | World Business Watch | Netherlands plans curbs on China chip exports × This is even less than that of IBM's Osprey which operates with "433 qubits and is nowhere near breaking codes". Qubit is the basic unit of quantum computing. Just like a bit is the fundamental unit of data storage (which can be expanded to kilobyte, megabyte, gigabyte and so on), qubit is the fundamental unit of quantum computing. Last year in November, New York-based IBM unveiled a new 433 qubit Quantum processor that has the potential to run complex quantum computations much beyond the capability of any typical computer. ALSO READ | US mulling expanding Chinese tech ban to quantum computing Called 'IBM Osprey,' it has the largest qubit count of any IBM quantum processor, more than tripling the 127 qubits on the IBM 'Eagle' processor unveiled in 2021. Reports citing experts suggest that the latest claim by Chinese scientists has left senior security and quantum experts in the US concerned. "It might not be correct, but it's not obviously wrong. And there's the nagging question of why the Chinese government didn't classify this research," American cryptographer Bruce Schneier said in a blog post. Scott Aaronson, director of the quantum information centre at the University of Texas at Austin, said a major problem with the Chinese research paper was its failure to clarify the advantage of quantum technology over classical computers. "It seems to me that a miracle would be required for the approach here to yield any benefit at all, compared to just running the classical Schnorr's algorithm on your laptop," Aaronson wrote in a blog post. (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.

Chinese claims breakthrough in advanced quantum computing technology, experts raise doubts

Indonesia president Joko Widodo on Wednesday made rare admissions about country's record of human rights violations&nbsp;and vowed to compensate victims and prevent similar human rights abuses from happening again in the future. The Indonesian president's comments were televised in which he acknowledged "with a clear mind and sincere heart" a total of 12 incidents categorised as gross human rights violations. The remarks come a day before Human Rights Watch's scheduled release of report on human rights conditions in over 100 countries.&nbsp;

The human rights violations that Indonesian president acknowledged on Wednesday&nbsp; reportedly occurred across the country from the northernmost province of Aceh to the easternmost province of Papua between the 1960s and early 2000s.

"I deeply regret it," Widodo said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indonesia-issues-emergency-regulation-to-replace-controversial-job-law-legal-experts-criticise-move-548049">Indonesia issues emergency regulation to replace controversial job law; legal experts criticise move</a>

"We are trying to recover the rights of victims in a fair and wise manner, without negating a judicial settlement," said Widodo, adding that he hopes his administration's efforts&nbsp;"can heal the wounds of the nation."

Indonesia, the largest and most populous country of southeast Asia has a long history of human rights violations. This includes the mass killings in 1965-1966 in "communist purge". The killings were reportedly targeted at the members of the Indonesian Communist Party, known by its Indonesia acronym PKI.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indonesia-bans-export-of-palm-oil-474766">Gravitas: Indonesia bans export of palm oil</a>

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Southeast Asia's largest and most populous country has a long, checkered history on human rights that includes mass killings in 1965-1966, also known as the Indonesian communist purge. The killings and civil unrest primarily targeted members of the Indonesian Communist Party, known by its Indonesian acronym PKI.

"The protracted settlement of cases of past serious human rights violations has not only caused prolonged suffering for the victims but has also become a stumbling block for national political reconciliation for the government," the Asian Human Rights Commission said in a statement.

The group urged Widodo to continue to pursue truth and justice in all cases.

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Indonesia president Joko Widodo on Wednesday made rare admissions about country's record of human rights violations and vowed to compensate victims and prevent similar human rights abuses from happening again in the future.

Indonesia president Joko Widodo on Wednesday made rare admissions about country's record of human rights violations and vowed to compensate victims and prevent similar human rights abuses from happening again in the future. The Indonesian president's comments were televised in which he acknowledged "with a clear mind and sincere heart" a total of 12 incidents categorised as gross human rights violations. The remarks come a day before Human Rights Watch's scheduled release of report on human rights conditions in over 100 countries. The human rights violations that Indonesian president acknowledged on Wednesday reportedly occurred across the country from the northernmost province of Aceh to the easternmost province of Papua between the 1960s and early 2000s. "I deeply regret it," Widodo said. ALSO READ | Indonesia issues emergency regulation to replace controversial job law; legal experts criticise move "We are trying to recover the rights of victims in a fair and wise manner, without negating a judicial settlement," said Widodo, adding that he hopes his administration's efforts "can heal the wounds of the nation." Indonesia, the largest and most populous country of southeast Asia has a long history of human rights violations. This includes the mass killings in 1965-1966 in "communist purge". The killings were reportedly targeted at the members of the Indonesian Communist Party, known by its Indonesia acronym PKI. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Indonesia bans export of palm oil × Southeast Asia's largest and most populous country has a long, checkered history on human rights that includes mass killings in 1965-1966, also known as the Indonesian communist purge. The killings and civil unrest primarily targeted members of the Indonesian Communist Party, known by its Indonesian acronym PKI. "The protracted settlement of cases of past serious human rights violations has not only caused prolonged suffering for the victims but has also become a stumbling block for national political reconciliation for the government," the Asian Human Rights Commission said in a statement. The group urged Widodo to continue to pursue truth and justice in all cases. 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.

Ahead of watchdog report, Indonesian president admits to country's human rights violation record

About 400 km southwest of Nigerian capital Abuja, more than 30 people were abducted from a train station in the country's southern Edo state by terrorists armed with AK-47 rifles, confirmed the state governor. The attack is the latest in a series of militant disruptions into Nigerian life and lifelines, going on to pose a challenge for government ahead of February's scheduled presidential polls.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nigeria-gears-up-for-2023-general-elections-550577">Nigeria gears up for 2023 general elections</a>

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According to an official police statement, the abduction of 32 people took place after they were surrounded by AK-47 wielding terrorists at Tom Ikimi station. The passengers were reportedly awaiting a train to the oil hub of Warri in neighbouring Delta state.&nbsp;

Some people at the station were shot in the attack, police said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-7-dead-after-suspected-bandits-attack-train-in-northern-nigeria-sources-466653">At least 7 dead after suspected bandits attack train in northern Nigeria</a>

Edo state information commissioner Chris Osa Nehikhare said the kidnappers had taken 32 people, while one made a miraculous escape.

"At the moment, security personnel made up of the military and the police as well as men of the vigilante network and hunters are intensifying search and rescue operations in a reasonable radius to rescue the kidnap victims," Edo state information commissioner said.&nbsp; 
"We are confident that the other victims will be rescued in the coming hours."

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) had closed the station until further notice. Abuja has called the kidnappings "utterly barbaric".

The Nigerian Railway Corporation last month reopened a rail service linking the capital Abuja with northern Kaduna state, months after its tracks were blown up, killing six people and kidnapping dozens of passengers in the subsequent commotion.

Nigeria’s security situation remains a key issue ahead of Nigeria's general elections in February. The February presidential polls will determine the fate of the successor of President Mohammed Buhari.&nbsp;

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About 400 km southwest of Nigerian capital Abuja, more than 30 people were abducted from a train station in the country's southern Edo state by terrorists armed with AK-47 rifles, confirmed the state governor.

About 400 km southwest of Nigerian capital Abuja, more than 30 people were abducted from a train station in the country's southern Edo state by terrorists armed with AK-47 rifles, confirmed the state governor. The attack is the latest in a series of militant disruptions into Nigerian life and lifelines, going on to pose a challenge for government ahead of February's scheduled presidential polls. ALSO WATCH | Nigeria gears up for 2023 general elections × According to an official police statement, the abduction of 32 people took place after they were surrounded by AK-47 wielding terrorists at Tom Ikimi station. The passengers were reportedly awaiting a train to the oil hub of Warri in neighbouring Delta state. Some people at the station were shot in the attack, police said. ALSO READ | At least 7 dead after suspected bandits attack train in northern Nigeria Edo state information commissioner Chris Osa Nehikhare said the kidnappers had taken 32 people, while one made a miraculous escape. "At the moment, security personnel made up of the military and the police as well as men of the vigilante network and hunters are intensifying search and rescue operations in a reasonable radius to rescue the kidnap victims," Edo state information commissioner said. "We are confident that the other victims will be rescued in the coming hours." The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) had closed the station until further notice. Abuja has called the kidnappings "utterly barbaric". The Nigerian Railway Corporation last month reopened a rail service linking the capital Abuja with northern Kaduna state, months after its tracks were blown up, killing six people and kidnapping dozens of passengers in the subsequent commotion. Nigeria’s security situation remains a key issue ahead of Nigeria's general elections in February. The February presidential polls will determine the fate of the successor of President Mohammed Buhari. 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.

Over 30 abducted in Nigeria after armed attack on train station

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