<p>The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) told a court on Wednesday (July 10) that the 1994 ISRO espionage case, which&nbsp;falsely implicated ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan,&nbsp;was fabricated by a senior police officer in Kerala to illegally detain a Maldivian woman who rejected his advances. The CBI presented this claim in a court in the Indian city of Thiruvananthapuram to point out that the case falsely implicated ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan.</p>

<p>According to the CBI chargesheet, S Vijayan, a special branch officer at the time who later retired as a Superintendent of Police (SP), orchestrated the case after a Maldivian woman Mariyam Rasheeda rebuffed his romantic overtures. Vijayan allegedly confiscated Rasheeda's travel documents and air tickets to prevent her from leaving the country.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India's Gaganyaan mission: ISRO completes human rating of its CE20 cryogenic engine</strong></p>

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<p>The chargesheet added that Vijayan later discovered Rasheeda's connection with ISRO scientist D Shasikumaran following which the Kerala Police officers placed Rasheeda and her Maldivian friend Fauzia Hasan under surveillance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kerala Police notified the Subsidiary Intelligence Bureau (SIB) about the two women. But they found nothing suspicious during their investigation, the CBI stated.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Space ambitions cannot exist in isolation: ISRO Chief Dr S Somanath Exclusive on WION</strong></p>

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<p>Rasheeda was subsequently arrested for overstaying her visa under the Foreigners Act.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When her custody was nearing its end, Vijayan allegedly submitted a false report implicating Rasheeda and Hasan under the Official Secrets Act. After this, an espionage case was filed and was subsequently transferred to a Special Investigation Team (SIT).</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/spacecraft-mission-operations-the-science-thats-steering-chandrayaan-3-to-the-moon-622124">Explained | Spacecraft Mission Operations, the science that's steering Chandrayaan-3 to the Moon</a></strong></p>

<p>The SIT then arrested four ISRO scientists, including Narayanan. The CBI chargesheet contends that the initial wrongful actions were added on by fabricating further charges against Narayanan and others.</p>

<p>In its final report, the CBI has recommended prosecuting former Director Generals of Police (DGPs) R B Sreekumar and Siby Mathews, former SPs S Vijayan and K K Joshua, and former intelligence officer P S Jayaprakash for their roles in the alleged conspiracy.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) told a court on Wednesday (July 10) that the 1994 ISRO espionage case, which falsely implicated ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan, was fabricated by a senior police officer in Kerala to illegally detain a Maldivian woman who rejected his advances.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) told a court on Wednesday (July 10) that the 1994 ISRO espionage case, which falsely implicated ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan, was fabricated by a senior police officer in Kerala to illegally detain a Maldivian woman who rejected his advances. The CBI presented this claim in a court in the Indian city of Thiruvananthapuram to point out that the case falsely implicated ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan. According to the CBI chargesheet, S Vijayan, a special branch officer at the time who later retired as a Superintendent of Police (SP), orchestrated the case after a Maldivian woman Mariyam Rasheeda rebuffed his romantic overtures. Vijayan allegedly confiscated Rasheeda's travel documents and air tickets to prevent her from leaving the country. Also watch | India's Gaganyaan mission: ISRO completes human rating of its CE20 cryogenic engine × The chargesheet added that Vijayan later discovered Rasheeda's connection with ISRO scientist D Shasikumaran following which the Kerala Police officers placed Rasheeda and her Maldivian friend Fauzia Hasan under surveillance. The Kerala Police notified the Subsidiary Intelligence Bureau (SIB) about the two women. But they found nothing suspicious during their investigation, the CBI stated. Also watch | Space ambitions cannot exist in isolation: ISRO Chief Dr S Somanath Exclusive on WION × Rasheeda was subsequently arrested for overstaying her visa under the Foreigners Act. When her custody was nearing its end, Vijayan allegedly submitted a false report implicating Rasheeda and Hasan under the Official Secrets Act. After this, an espionage case was filed and was subsequently transferred to a Special Investigation Team (SIT). Also read | Explained | Spacecraft Mission Operations, the science that's steering Chandrayaan-3 to the Moon The SIT then arrested four ISRO scientists, including Narayanan. The CBI chargesheet contends that the initial wrongful actions were added on by fabricating further charges against Narayanan and others. In its final report, the CBI has recommended prosecuting former Director Generals of Police (DGPs) R B Sreekumar and Siby Mathews, former SPs S Vijayan and K K Joshua, and former intelligence officer P S Jayaprakash for their roles in the alleged conspiracy. (With inputs from agencies)

Nambi Narayanan false espionage case: Kerala cop fabricated charges to trap Maldivian woman, says CBI

<p>The Israeli military has directed all residents of Gaza City to move southwards to the central Gaza Strip as operations intensify in the north. Aircraft on Wednesday (July 10) dropped leaflets instructing "everyone in Gaza City" to leave the area and described the populated area in the blockaded Palestinian enclave as a "dangerous combat zone."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel asked Gaza City residents to leave via designated safe routes leading to shelters in Deir al-Balah and al-Zawaida.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-al-shifa-hospital-chief-released-by-israel-faced-torture-during-detention-736844">Gaza war: Al Shifa hospital chief released, Israel ministers trade blame with Shin Bet</a></strong></p>

<p>The United Nations has expressed deep concern over Israel's latest evacuation orders. They mark the second time since the conflict began that a full evacuation of Gaza City has been called.</p>

<h2><strong>War in Gaza: What's happening?</strong></h2>

<p>Over the past two weeks, Israeli forces have re-entered several districts in Gaza City where the military believes Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) fighters had regrouped since the start of the year.</p>

<p>Hamas has stated that Israel’s renewed military activity jeopardises ongoing negotiations for a potential ceasefire and hostage release deal, which resumed in Qatar on Wednesday (July 10).&nbsp;</p>

<p>These talks include the intelligence chiefs of Egypt, the US, and Israel, as well as Qatar’s prime minister.</p>

<p>There are still an estimated 250,000 people living in Gaza City. The Palestinian Red Crescent reported receiving calls from residents unable to leave their homes due to intense bombing.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel war: Residents flee districts in Gaza amid heavy fighting, death toll continues to mount</strong></p>

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<p>"The information coming from Gaza City shows residents are living through tragic conditions. [Israeli] occupation forces continue to hit residential districts, displacing people from their homes and refuge shelters," the Red Crescent stated.</p>

<p>The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced earlier on Wednesday that its troops had conducted a "counterterrorism operation" overnight against Hamas and PIJ fighters operating from a UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) headquarters in Gaza City. The IDF stated that a “defined corridor” had been opened to facilitate civilian evacuation before troops entered the structure and "eliminated terrorists in close-quarters combat."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Israeli military has directed all residents of Gaza City to move southwards to the central Gaza Strip as operations intensify in the north. Aircraft on Wednesday (July 10) dropped leaflets instructing "everyone in Gaza City" to leave the area and described the populated area in the blockaded Palestinian enclave as a "dangerous combat zone.

The Israeli military has directed all residents of Gaza City to move southwards to the central Gaza Strip as operations intensify in the north. Aircraft on Wednesday (July 10) dropped leaflets instructing "everyone in Gaza City" to leave the area and described the populated area in the blockaded Palestinian enclave as a "dangerous combat zone." Israel asked Gaza City residents to leave via designated safe routes leading to shelters in Deir al-Balah and al-Zawaida. Also read | Gaza war: Al Shifa hospital chief released, Israel ministers trade blame with Shin Bet The United Nations has expressed deep concern over Israel's latest evacuation orders. They mark the second time since the conflict began that a full evacuation of Gaza City has been called. War in Gaza: What's happening? Over the past two weeks, Israeli forces have re-entered several districts in Gaza City where the military believes Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) fighters had regrouped since the start of the year. Hamas has stated that Israel’s renewed military activity jeopardises ongoing negotiations for a potential ceasefire and hostage release deal, which resumed in Qatar on Wednesday (July 10). These talks include the intelligence chiefs of Egypt, the US, and Israel, as well as Qatar’s prime minister. There are still an estimated 250,000 people living in Gaza City. The Palestinian Red Crescent reported receiving calls from residents unable to leave their homes due to intense bombing. Also watch | Israel war: Residents flee districts in Gaza amid heavy fighting, death toll continues to mount × "The information coming from Gaza City shows residents are living through tragic conditions. [Israeli] occupation forces continue to hit residential districts, displacing people from their homes and refuge shelters," the Red Crescent stated. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced earlier on Wednesday that its troops had conducted a "counterterrorism operation" overnight against Hamas and PIJ fighters operating from a UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) headquarters in Gaza City. The IDF stated that a “defined corridor” had been opened to facilitate civilian evacuation before troops entered the structure and "eliminated terrorists in close-quarters combat." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel military orders Gaza City residents to leave as it intensifies operations

<p>NATO allies announced Wednesday they had started the long-promised transfer of F-16 jets to Ukraine as leaders meet for a summit in Washington clouded by political uncertainties in the United States.</p>

<p>With the pomp of the three-day gathering in the US capital, President Joe Biden is aiming to rally the West and also reassure US voters amid intense pre-election scrutiny on whether at 81 — six years older than the alliance — he remains fit for the job.</p>

<p>Kicking off events for the 32-nation alliance with a celebration Tuesday evening, Biden committed a new air defence system for Kyiv and urged unity against Russian President Vladimir Putin, who launched the Ukraine invasion in 2022.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-pledges-new-air-defence-support-for-ukraine-at-nato-summit-739428">Biden pledges new air defence support for Ukraine at NATO summit</a></strong></p>

<p>"Make no mistake. Ukraine can — and will — stop Putin," Biden said in a forceful speech.</p>

<p>The White House followed up Wednesday by saying that Denmark and the Netherlands had begun sending F-16 jets to Ukraine.</p>

<p>Biden last year approved the key request by Ukraine, which wants advanced Western aircraft as it struggles to gain parity in the skies with Russia. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the F-16 transfer "concentrates Vladimir Putin's mind on the fact that he will not outlast Ukraine, he will not outlast us and, if he persists, the damage that will continue to be done to Russia and its interests will only deepen."</p>

<p>"The quickest way to get to peace is through a strong Ukraine," Blinken said.</p>

<p>But Donald Trump, who is edging out Biden in recent polls, has mused about bringing a quick peace settlement by forcing Ukraine to surrender territory to Russia.</p>

<p>The Republican mogul has repeatedly questioned the utility of NATO — formed in 1949 as collective defence against Moscow — which he sees as an unfair burden on the United States.</p>

<h2><strong>'Terror must fail'</strong></h2>

<p>On the eve of the summit, Russia fired a barrage of missiles on Ukraine, killing dozens, including in Kyiv where a children's hospital was reduced to debris.</p>

<p>Biden invited to the summit Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who voiced gratitude for the F-16s which he said would better protect his country from such "brutal Russian attacks."</p>

<p>The new aircraft will "bring just and lasting peace closer, demonstrating that terror must fail everywhere and at any time," Zelensky wrote on social media.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;NATO Summit 2024: President Biden faces high-stakes summit with his Presidency in spotlight</strong></p>

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<p>The summit will look for ways to "Trump-proof" the alliance including by having NATO itself take over coordination of arms delivery from the United States.</p>

<p>Outgoing NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg has also sought a pledge to keep supplying arms at the same rate -- some 40 billion euros ($43 billion) annually -- that NATO members have been since Russia invaded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I expect that regardless of the outcome of the US elections, the US will remain a strong and staunch NATO ally," Stoltenberg said as leaders gathered for the summit.</p>

<p>Biden has also invited four key Pacific partners -- Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand -- as he seeks to increase NATO's role in managing a rising China.</p>

<h2><strong>'Irreversible' Ukraine path to NATO</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine wants firm assurances that it will one day join NATO, which considers an attack on any member an attack on all.</p>

<p>A NATO diplomat said negotiations had settled on wording of a statement that will voice support for Ukraine's "irreversible path to full Euro-Atlantic integration, including NATO membership."</p>

<p>Kyiv's membership enjoys wide backing from Baltic and Eastern European nations still haunted by decades under the Soviet yoke.</p>

<p>But Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz have led opposition, concerned that the alliance would effectively be entering war with nuclear-armed Russia as it occupies swathes of Ukraine.</p>

<p>Zelensky, who has achieved hero status in much of the West for his media-savvy defiance of Russia, voiced open annoyance at the last NATO summit in Lithuania at the failure to provide a clearer path to membership.</p>

<p>Other leaders attending the summit include Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, one of Putin's closest partners in the West, who ahead of Washington went to Ukraine, Russia and China on a self-described peace mission criticized by Brussels and Washington.</p>

<p>Biden, Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will later welcome their counterparts for gala dinners around the Washington area, which is in the throes of a searing heat wave.</p>

<p>One new NATO leader is British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is visiting days after taking office in a landslide victory by his Labour Party.</p>

<p>He will meet both Biden and Zelensky and is expected to confirm Britain's strong support for Ukraine.</p>

<p><em>This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


NATO allies announced Wednesday they had started the long-promised transfer of F-16 jets to Ukraine as leaders meet for a summit in Washington clouded by political uncertainties in the United States.

NATO allies announced Wednesday they had started the long-promised transfer of F-16 jets to Ukraine as leaders meet for a summit in Washington clouded by political uncertainties in the United States. With the pomp of the three-day gathering in the US capital, President Joe Biden is aiming to rally the West and also reassure US voters amid intense pre-election scrutiny on whether at 81 — six years older than the alliance — he remains fit for the job. Kicking off events for the 32-nation alliance with a celebration Tuesday evening, Biden committed a new air defence system for Kyiv and urged unity against Russian President Vladimir Putin, who launched the Ukraine invasion in 2022. Also read | Biden pledges new air defence support for Ukraine at NATO summit "Make no mistake. Ukraine can — and will — stop Putin," Biden said in a forceful speech. The White House followed up Wednesday by saying that Denmark and the Netherlands had begun sending F-16 jets to Ukraine. Biden last year approved the key request by Ukraine, which wants advanced Western aircraft as it struggles to gain parity in the skies with Russia. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the F-16 transfer "concentrates Vladimir Putin's mind on the fact that he will not outlast Ukraine, he will not outlast us and, if he persists, the damage that will continue to be done to Russia and its interests will only deepen." "The quickest way to get to peace is through a strong Ukraine," Blinken said. But Donald Trump, who is edging out Biden in recent polls, has mused about bringing a quick peace settlement by forcing Ukraine to surrender territory to Russia. The Republican mogul has repeatedly questioned the utility of NATO — formed in 1949 as collective defence against Moscow — which he sees as an unfair burden on the United States. 'Terror must fail' On the eve of the summit, Russia fired a barrage of missiles on Ukraine, killing dozens, including in Kyiv where a children's hospital was reduced to debris. Biden invited to the summit Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who voiced gratitude for the F-16s which he said would better protect his country from such "brutal Russian attacks." The new aircraft will "bring just and lasting peace closer, demonstrating that terror must fail everywhere and at any time," Zelensky wrote on social media. Also watch | NATO Summit 2024: President Biden faces high-stakes summit with his Presidency in spotlight × The summit will look for ways to "Trump-proof" the alliance including by having NATO itself take over coordination of arms delivery from the United States. Outgoing NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg has also sought a pledge to keep supplying arms at the same rate -- some 40 billion euros ($43 billion) annually -- that NATO members have been since Russia invaded. "I expect that regardless of the outcome of the US elections, the US will remain a strong and staunch NATO ally," Stoltenberg said as leaders gathered for the summit. Biden has also invited four key Pacific partners -- Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand -- as he seeks to increase NATO's role in managing a rising China. 'Irreversible' Ukraine path to NATO Ukraine wants firm assurances that it will one day join NATO, which considers an attack on any member an attack on all. A NATO diplomat said negotiations had settled on wording of a statement that will voice support for Ukraine's "irreversible path to full Euro-Atlantic integration, including NATO membership." Kyiv's membership enjoys wide backing from Baltic and Eastern European nations still haunted by decades under the Soviet yoke. But Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz have led opposition, concerned that the alliance would effectively be entering war with nuclear-armed Russia as it occupies swathes of Ukraine. Zelensky, who has achieved hero status in much of the West for his media-savvy defiance of Russia, voiced open annoyance at the last NATO summit in Lithuania at the failure to provide a clearer path to membership. Other leaders attending the summit include Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, one of Putin's closest partners in the West, who ahead of Washington went to Ukraine, Russia and China on a self-described peace mission criticized by Brussels and Washington. Biden, Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will later welcome their counterparts for gala dinners around the Washington area, which is in the throes of a searing heat wave. One new NATO leader is British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is visiting days after taking office in a landslide victory by his Labour Party. He will meet both Biden and Zelensky and is expected to confirm Britain's strong support for Ukraine. This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

NATO summit: Ukraine gets F-16 jets, 'irreversible' path to bloc membership

<p>A Delhi-based management consultant's purported earning surprised few but shocked many on&nbsp;social media. The unnamed management consultant was walking in New York when an Instagram channel approached him for an interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked about his profession, the person responded that they work as a management consultant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The person added that they have an eight to nine years of work experience in total.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In India, salaries for management consultants are very standard. So across the top three firms, a person like me – so I’m like a senior manager – someone like that can expect making ₹80,000 to ₹1.2 crore per annum," the person said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/appraisal-season-lightens-singapore-airlines-staff-scores-eight-months-bonus-722003">Appraisal season lightens! Singapore Airlines staff scores eight months' bonus</a></strong></p>

<p>The interviewer described that as "a crazy amount of money as per Indian standards."</p>

<p>The management consultant added that the figure can increase depending on the performance bonus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The management consultant said that they are "obviously very happy" with the salary they receive as it motivates them to give the best possible output. The Delhi resident also explained that recruitment is typically done through campus placements.</p>

<p>Asked about the educational qualifications, they said that they did their MBA from the Indian School of Business (ISB).</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India tops salary increases among major economies</strong></p>

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<p>People on social media responded with the reactions of surprise to the person's salary. A number of people said that the video inspired them to work harder at their education.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Wow, so inspiring," wrote one commenter. Another said: "Living the dream life."&nbsp;</p>

<p>A third Instagram user described the salary range as "insane."</p>

<p>A management consultant is a professional who gives expert advice to organisations to help improve their performance and efficiency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The top three management consulting firms globally, often referred to as the "Big Three" are McKinsey &amp; Company, Boston Consulting Group, and Bain &amp; Company.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Delhi-based management consultant's purported earning surprised few but shocked many on social media. The unnamed management consultant was walking in New York when an Instagram channel approached him for an interview.

A Delhi-based management consultant's purported earning surprised few but shocked many on social media. The unnamed management consultant was walking in New York when an Instagram channel approached him for an interview. When asked about his profession, the person responded that they work as a management consultant. The person added that they have an eight to nine years of work experience in total. "In India, salaries for management consultants are very standard. So across the top three firms, a person like me – so I’m like a senior manager – someone like that can expect making ₹80,000 to ₹1.2 crore per annum," the person said. Also read | Appraisal season lightens! Singapore Airlines staff scores eight months' bonus The interviewer described that as "a crazy amount of money as per Indian standards." The management consultant added that the figure can increase depending on the performance bonus. The management consultant said that they are "obviously very happy" with the salary they receive as it motivates them to give the best possible output. The Delhi resident also explained that recruitment is typically done through campus placements. Asked about the educational qualifications, they said that they did their MBA from the Indian School of Business (ISB). Also watch | India tops salary increases among major economies × People on social media responded with the reactions of surprise to the person's salary. A number of people said that the video inspired them to work harder at their education. "Wow, so inspiring," wrote one commenter. Another said: "Living the dream life." A third Instagram user described the salary range as "insane." A management consultant is a professional who gives expert advice to organisations to help improve their performance and efficiency. The top three management consulting firms globally, often referred to as the "Big Three" are McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group, and Bain & Company. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi-based management consultant's whopping salary shocks internet

<p>Myanmar ethnic minority fighters said Wednesday they had seized a town along a key trade highway to China following days of clashes, in another blow to the military.</p>

<p>Northern Shan state has been rocked by fighting since late last month, when an alliance of ethnic armed groups renewed an offensive against the military along the highway to China's Yunnan province.</p>

<p>The clashes have shredded a Beijing-brokered truce that in January halted an offensive by the alliance of the Arakan Army (AA), the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) and the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA).</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-ethnic-armed-group-says-captured-hundreds-of-junta-personnel-718665">Myanmar ethnic armed group says captured hundreds of junta personnel</a></strong></p>

<p>The town of Naungcho "is totally ours", General Tar Bhone Kyaw of the TNLA told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier Wednesday, a military source told AFP that ethnic minority fighters were in control of "most" of the town.</p>

<p>AFP was unable to reach a junta spokesman for comment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Naungcho is around 50 kilometres (30 miles) down the highway from the former British hill station of Pyin Oo Lwin, home to the military's elite officer training academy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another road from the town leads to Taunggyi, the capital of Shan state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>TNLA fighters were also inside the town of Lashio, home to the junta's northeastern command, the TNLA said.</p>

<p>Its forces had briefly captured a battallion command near the city but had been forced to retreat when the military launched air strikes, said Tar Bhone Kyaw.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Myanmar: Junta under pressure as intense fighting breaks out in northeastern Myanmar</strong></p>

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<p>On Tuesday the junta said 18 civilians in Lashio had been killed and 24 wounded in shelling, rocket and drone attacks by the alliance.</p>

<p>The military has carried out several air strikes around the town of about 150,000 people, according to residents.</p>

<h2><strong>Fleeing in convoys</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday Lashio residents piled into cars weighed down with belongings and navigated potholed and monsoon-soaked dirt roads in a bid to flee the fighting, AFP images showed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Monday around 45 people crowded onto a boat to be taken across a river swollen by the monsoon rains.</p>

<p>Myanmar's borderlands are home to myriad ethnic armed groups who have battled the military since independence from Britain in 1948 for autonomy and control of lucrative resources.</p>

<p>Some have given shelter and training to newer "People's Defence Forces" (PDFs) that have sprung up to battle the military after it ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's government in 2021.</p>

<p>In recent days, PDF fighters have battled junta forces in Madaya township, around an hour north of second city Mandalay.</p>

<p>Amid the renewed fighting last week, top junta general Soe Win travelled to China to discuss security cooperation along their shared border.</p>

<p>China is a major ally and arms supplier to the junta, but analysts say Beijing also maintains ties with Myanmar's armed ethnic groups holding territory near its border.&nbsp;</p>


Myanmar ethnic minority fighters said Wednesday they had seized a town along a key trade highway to China following days of clashes, in another blow to the military.

Myanmar ethnic minority fighters said Wednesday they had seized a town along a key trade highway to China following days of clashes, in another blow to the military. Northern Shan state has been rocked by fighting since late last month, when an alliance of ethnic armed groups renewed an offensive against the military along the highway to China's Yunnan province. The clashes have shredded a Beijing-brokered truce that in January halted an offensive by the alliance of the Arakan Army (AA), the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) and the Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA). Also read | Myanmar ethnic armed group says captured hundreds of junta personnel The town of Naungcho "is totally ours", General Tar Bhone Kyaw of the TNLA told AFP. Earlier Wednesday, a military source told AFP that ethnic minority fighters were in control of "most" of the town. AFP was unable to reach a junta spokesman for comment. Naungcho is around 50 kilometres (30 miles) down the highway from the former British hill station of Pyin Oo Lwin, home to the military's elite officer training academy. Another road from the town leads to Taunggyi, the capital of Shan state. TNLA fighters were also inside the town of Lashio, home to the junta's northeastern command, the TNLA said. Its forces had briefly captured a battallion command near the city but had been forced to retreat when the military launched air strikes, said Tar Bhone Kyaw. Also watch | Myanmar: Junta under pressure as intense fighting breaks out in northeastern Myanmar × On Tuesday the junta said 18 civilians in Lashio had been killed and 24 wounded in shelling, rocket and drone attacks by the alliance. The military has carried out several air strikes around the town of about 150,000 people, according to residents. Fleeing in convoys On Tuesday Lashio residents piled into cars weighed down with belongings and navigated potholed and monsoon-soaked dirt roads in a bid to flee the fighting, AFP images showed. On Monday around 45 people crowded onto a boat to be taken across a river swollen by the monsoon rains. Myanmar's borderlands are home to myriad ethnic armed groups who have battled the military since independence from Britain in 1948 for autonomy and control of lucrative resources. Some have given shelter and training to newer "People's Defence Forces" (PDFs) that have sprung up to battle the military after it ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's government in 2021. In recent days, PDF fighters have battled junta forces in Madaya township, around an hour north of second city Mandalay. Amid the renewed fighting last week, top junta general Soe Win travelled to China to discuss security cooperation along their shared border. China is a major ally and arms supplier to the junta, but analysts say Beijing also maintains ties with Myanmar's armed ethnic groups holding territory near its border.

Myanmar-China showdown? Ethnic armed group claims control of highway town to China

<p>India's Supreme Court ruled that a divorced Muslim woman can seek alimony from her husband under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, the law that proscribes "order for maintenance of wives, children and parents".&nbsp;The top court bench of Justices BV Nagarathna and Augustine George Masih dismissed the&nbsp;petition filed by a Muslim man named Mohd Abdul Samad.&nbsp;A family court had&nbsp;previously directed&nbsp;Samad&nbsp;to pay a monthly allowance of ₹20,000 ($240) to his divorced wife.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-long-as-im-alive-pm-modi-targets-congress-over-religion-based-quota-in-gujarat-rally-717143">‘As long as I’m alive…,’ PM Modi targets Congress over religion-based quota in Gujarat rally</a></strong></p>

<p>"We are dismissing the criminal appeal with the conclusion that Section 125 CrPC would be applicable to all women and not just married women," Justice Nagarathna stated.</p>

<p>The landmark judgment came&nbsp;on the petition by Mohd Abdul Samad who was previously directed by a family court to pay a monthly allowance of ₹20,000 ($240) to his divorced wife. Samad had challenged the direction in Telangana High Court. The high court upheld the direction to pay maintenance, but modified the amount to ₹10,000 ($120).&nbsp;</p>

<p>He then moved the Supreme Court.</p>

<p>The petitioner invoked the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986 Act, the controversial law formulated by the then-Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's government to pacify the Muslim conservatives enraged after Supreme Court's progressive verdict in Shah Bano case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The petitioner in the current case argued that "if the divorced woman has sufficient means, she cannot file for maintenance under Section 125 CrPC, however, that is the case with Section 3 of the Act".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: India has the lowest divorce rate in the world. Here's why</strong></p>

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<p>The court said that maintenance is not a matter of charity but a fundamental right of married women. "This right transcends religious boundaries, reinforcing the principle of gender equality and financial security for all married women," it added.</p>

<p>"Some husbands are not conscious of the fact that the wife, who is a homemaker, is dependent on them emotionally and in other ways. Time has come for Indian men to recognise the indispensable role and sacrifices made by housewives for the family."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's Supreme Court ruled that a divorced Muslim woman can seek alimony from her husband under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, the law that proscribes "order for maintenance of wives, children and parents".

India's Supreme Court ruled that a divorced Muslim woman can seek alimony from her husband under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, the law that proscribes "order for maintenance of wives, children and parents". The top court bench of Justices BV Nagarathna and Augustine George Masih dismissed the petition filed by a Muslim man named Mohd Abdul Samad. A family court had previously directed Samad to pay a monthly allowance of ₹20,000 ($240) to his divorced wife. Also read | ‘As long as I’m alive…,’ PM Modi targets Congress over religion-based quota in Gujarat rally "We are dismissing the criminal appeal with the conclusion that Section 125 CrPC would be applicable to all women and not just married women," Justice Nagarathna stated. The landmark judgment came on the petition by Mohd Abdul Samad who was previously directed by a family court to pay a monthly allowance of ₹20,000 ($240) to his divorced wife. Samad had challenged the direction in Telangana High Court. The high court upheld the direction to pay maintenance, but modified the amount to ₹10,000 ($120). He then moved the Supreme Court. The petitioner invoked the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986 Act, the controversial law formulated by the then-Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's government to pacify the Muslim conservatives enraged after Supreme Court's progressive verdict in Shah Bano case. The petitioner in the current case argued that "if the divorced woman has sufficient means, she cannot file for maintenance under Section 125 CrPC, however, that is the case with Section 3 of the Act". Also watch | Gravitas Plus: India has the lowest divorce rate in the world. Here's why × The court said that maintenance is not a matter of charity but a fundamental right of married women. "This right transcends religious boundaries, reinforcing the principle of gender equality and financial security for all married women," it added. "Some husbands are not conscious of the fact that the wife, who is a homemaker, is dependent on them emotionally and in other ways. Time has come for Indian men to recognise the indispensable role and sacrifices made by housewives for the family." (With inputs from agencies)

‘It’s their right, not charity’: Supreme Court delivers landmark alimony order for Muslim women

Olympics 2024: Top 7 Most Sports Loving States in the US

US non-profit SmileHub compared 50 American states based on 20 key metrics, such as number of professional sports teams to the number of sports clubs per capita. Here are the most sports-loving states in the US. 

According to SmileHub, these are five most sports loving states in the US

Olympics 2024: Top 5 Most Sports Loving States in the US

<p>US President Joe Biden geared up Tuesday to kick off a NATO summit in Washington aimed at showing resolve against Russia and support for Ukraine -- but the meeting was being overshadowed by his fight for political survival.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 81-year-old leader will try to use the three days of pomp marking NATO's 75th anniversary to reassure allies over US leadership, and his own ability to govern, as calls grow for him to quit the fight for a second term in office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden has so far defied pressure from some within his party to step aside, after a disastrous TV debate against election rival Donald Trump last month fueled fears that he lacks mental acuity and physical fitness.</p>

<p>The US president was set to open the summit with a speech in the room where NATO's founding treaty was signed in 1949 and expected to emphasise how the alliance has been strengthened on his watch. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;NATO at 75 as alliance faces uncertain future</strong></p>

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<p>Other leaders appeared keen to rally around their host, with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz insisting as he set off from Berlin on Tuesday that he was "not concerned" by the president's fitness.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But as doubts swirl over Biden, the 32-nation alliance is nervously eyeing a potential return to the White House by Trump after elections in November. &nbsp;</p>

<p>On the campaign trail, the volatile ex-reality TV star has threatened to blow apart the principle of mutual self-defence that has underpinned NATO since it was founded in the wake of World War II.</p>

<p>It's not just the United States, however, that faces political questions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron is struggling to form a government after divisive elections, new British Prime Minister Keir Starmer makes his first international outing, and Hungary's premier Viktor Orban flies in after a much-criticised meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin.</p>

<h2>Air defences for Ukraine</h2>

<p>While they wrestle with the minefield of US politics, NATO leaders will have to show they haven't been distracted from the reality of the battlefield in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived Tuesday expecting to secure additional Patriot advanced air defence systems that he has been begging his backers to send for months to stave off Russian attacks.</p>

<p>His war-torn country's vulnerability to Moscow's missiles was cruelly exposed by a strike Monday on a children's hospital in Kyiv. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are fighting for more air defense systems for Ukraine, and I'm confident we will succeed," Zelensky said after touching down in Washington. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"We urge decisive actions from the US and Europe – actions that will strengthen our warriors."</p>

<p>The Kremlin said it was following the summit "with the greatest attention... the rhetoric at the talks and the decisions that will be taken and put on paper."</p>

<p>The promise of more weaponry is set to be the biggest win the Ukrainian leader will get as his troops struggle to hold ground two and a half years into Russia's invasion.</p>

<h2>China challenge</h2>

<p>Worried about dragging NATO closer to war with Russia, the United States and Germany have shut down any talk of giving Ukraine a clear invitation to join their alliance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Instead, diplomats say Kyiv's path to eventual membership may be described as "irreversible" in the summit declaration and say the country is on a "bridge" to joining.</p>

<p>NATO members will vow to keep supporting Ukraine at the rate they have been so far since Moscow invaded -- roughly 40 billion euros annually -- for at least another year.</p>

<p>They will also agree the alliance will take more control of coordinating weapon deliveries to Ukraine from the US military in a move to help insulate supplies from any changes in Washington if Trump wins the election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>European countries in NATO have ramped up defence spending in response to Russia's war -- and the alliance is showcasing the rises to make the case to Washington that it isn't carrying all the financial burden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said allies would sign a pledge to spend more on weaponry in a bid to get defence firms to ratchet up capacity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While NATO views Russia as its main threat, it is also paying greater attention to the challenge from China and accuses Beijing of playing a key role in keeping Moscow's war effort going by supplying tech to the Kremlin's military.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-dismisses-calls-to-quit-white-house-race-ahead-of-nato-summit-738384">Joe Biden dismisses calls to quit White House race ahead of NATO summit</a></strong></p>

<p>The leaders of Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea will come to Washington to bolster ties with the alliance.</p>

<p>China's foreign ministry hit out at the "smear and attacks" against Beijing from NATO and said the alliance was seeking an excuse to expand its influence in the Asia-Pacific region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


US President Joe Biden geared up Tuesday to kick off a NATO summit in Washington aimed at showing resolve against Russia and support for Ukraine -- but the meeting was being overshadowed by his fight for political survival.

US President Joe Biden geared up Tuesday to kick off a NATO summit in Washington aimed at showing resolve against Russia and support for Ukraine -- but the meeting was being overshadowed by his fight for political survival. The 81-year-old leader will try to use the three days of pomp marking NATO's 75th anniversary to reassure allies over US leadership, and his own ability to govern, as calls grow for him to quit the fight for a second term in office. Biden has so far defied pressure from some within his party to step aside, after a disastrous TV debate against election rival Donald Trump last month fueled fears that he lacks mental acuity and physical fitness. The US president was set to open the summit with a speech in the room where NATO's founding treaty was signed in 1949 and expected to emphasise how the alliance has been strengthened on his watch. Also watch | NATO at 75 as alliance faces uncertain future × Other leaders appeared keen to rally around their host, with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz insisting as he set off from Berlin on Tuesday that he was "not concerned" by the president's fitness. But as doubts swirl over Biden, the 32-nation alliance is nervously eyeing a potential return to the White House by Trump after elections in November. On the campaign trail, the volatile ex-reality TV star has threatened to blow apart the principle of mutual self-defence that has underpinned NATO since it was founded in the wake of World War II. It's not just the United States, however, that faces political questions. French President Emmanuel Macron is struggling to form a government after divisive elections, new British Prime Minister Keir Starmer makes his first international outing, and Hungary's premier Viktor Orban flies in after a much-criticised meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin. Air defences for Ukraine While they wrestle with the minefield of US politics, NATO leaders will have to show they haven't been distracted from the reality of the battlefield in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived Tuesday expecting to secure additional Patriot advanced air defence systems that he has been begging his backers to send for months to stave off Russian attacks. His war-torn country's vulnerability to Moscow's missiles was cruelly exposed by a strike Monday on a children's hospital in Kyiv. "We are fighting for more air defense systems for Ukraine, and I'm confident we will succeed," Zelensky said after touching down in Washington. "We urge decisive actions from the US and Europe – actions that will strengthen our warriors." The Kremlin said it was following the summit "with the greatest attention... the rhetoric at the talks and the decisions that will be taken and put on paper." The promise of more weaponry is set to be the biggest win the Ukrainian leader will get as his troops struggle to hold ground two and a half years into Russia's invasion. China challenge Worried about dragging NATO closer to war with Russia, the United States and Germany have shut down any talk of giving Ukraine a clear invitation to join their alliance. Instead, diplomats say Kyiv's path to eventual membership may be described as "irreversible" in the summit declaration and say the country is on a "bridge" to joining. NATO members will vow to keep supporting Ukraine at the rate they have been so far since Moscow invaded -- roughly 40 billion euros annually -- for at least another year. They will also agree the alliance will take more control of coordinating weapon deliveries to Ukraine from the US military in a move to help insulate supplies from any changes in Washington if Trump wins the election. European countries in NATO have ramped up defence spending in response to Russia's war -- and the alliance is showcasing the rises to make the case to Washington that it isn't carrying all the financial burden. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said allies would sign a pledge to spend more on weaponry in a bid to get defence firms to ratchet up capacity. While NATO views Russia as its main threat, it is also paying greater attention to the challenge from China and accuses Beijing of playing a key role in keeping Moscow's war effort going by supplying tech to the Kremlin's military. Also read | Joe Biden dismisses calls to quit White House race ahead of NATO summit The leaders of Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea will come to Washington to bolster ties with the alliance. China's foreign ministry hit out at the "smear and attacks" against Beijing from NATO and said the alliance was seeking an excuse to expand its influence in the Asia-Pacific region. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

NATO leaders gather in Washington as ageing Biden struggles to assert control

<p>India and Russia agreed "to continue working together to promote a bilateral settlement system using national currencies" as President Vladimir Putin hosted Indian&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the 22nd India-Russia summit. The development means a continued insistence by the nations of the Global South to ensure trade operability in their own currencies in a setback to the belligerent dominance of the US dollar in global trade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Aiming to further accelerate and sustain the growth in bilateral trade, the Leaders agreed to set the bilateral trade target of $100 billion by 2030," said the 12th of the 81-point joint statement following the conclusion of the 22nd India-Russia annual summit.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;PM Modi in Russia: PM Modi interacts with Indian diaspora in Moscow</strong></p>

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<p>To further expand the business ties, Modi and Putin launched the first-ever India-Russia Investment Forum. The two sides also agreed to "facilitate participation of Russian businesses in 'Make in India' and '<em>Atmanirbhar Bharat</em>' (self-reliant India) programmes and that of Indian companies in investment projects in Russia," the joint statement stated.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India-Russia summit: On Transport and Connectivity</strong></h2>

<p>The two sides said that they will continue joint efforts to intensify the use of the International North-South Transport Corridor&nbsp;route in order to reduce the time and cost of cargo transportation and to promote connectivity in the Eurasian space.</p>

<p><img alt="Iran is at the center of International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC)" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/INSTC.png" /></p>

<p>"Cooperation in the field of transport and logistics will be based on the principles of transparency, broad participation, local priorities, financial sustainability and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations," the official readout said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two sides expressed readiness to actively work to expand logistics links with an emphasis on increasing the capacity of infrastructure, including for implementation of the Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor and the International North-South Transport Corridor, as well as using the potential of the Northern Sea Route.</p>

<p><img alt="Eastern maritime corridor" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0634ab7d-279c-4b6d-8e10-04a3e4da0e1a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/chennaiRussia.png" /></p>

<p><em>Eastern Maritime Corridor | WION</em></p>

<p>Earlier in the day, the Indian PM was presented with the 'Order of St Andrew the Apostle' by the Russian president.&nbsp;PM Modi received the award for "his distinguished contribution to the development of a privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India and friendly ties between the two countries".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-presented-with-order-of-st-andrew-the-apostle-russias-highest-civilian-honour-739332">PM Modi presented with ‘Order of St Andrew the Apostle’, Russia’s highest civilian honour</a></strong></p>

<p>PM Modi told President Putin that war is not a solution. Modi also highlighted how it gave him "immense pain" when innocent children were murdered.</p>

<p>"I am happy that we could discuss about the war in Ukraine with an open mind, and we listened to each other's thoughts on the war with great respect," PM Modi said during bilateral talks with President&nbsp;Putin.</p>


India and Russia agreed "to continue working together to promote a bilateral settlement system using national currencies" as President Vladimir Putin hosted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the 22nd India-Russia summit.

India and Russia agreed "to continue working together to promote a bilateral settlement system using national currencies" as President Vladimir Putin hosted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the 22nd India-Russia summit. The development means a continued insistence by the nations of the Global South to ensure trade operability in their own currencies in a setback to the belligerent dominance of the US dollar in global trade. "Aiming to further accelerate and sustain the growth in bilateral trade, the Leaders agreed to set the bilateral trade target of $100 billion by 2030," said the 12th of the 81-point joint statement following the conclusion of the 22nd India-Russia annual summit. Also watch | PM Modi in Russia: PM Modi interacts with Indian diaspora in Moscow × To further expand the business ties, Modi and Putin launched the first-ever India-Russia Investment Forum. The two sides also agreed to "facilitate participation of Russian businesses in 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) programmes and that of Indian companies in investment projects in Russia," the joint statement stated. India-Russia summit: On Transport and Connectivity The two sides said that they will continue joint efforts to intensify the use of the International North-South Transport Corridor route in order to reduce the time and cost of cargo transportation and to promote connectivity in the Eurasian space. "Cooperation in the field of transport and logistics will be based on the principles of transparency, broad participation, local priorities, financial sustainability and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations," the official readout said. The two sides expressed readiness to actively work to expand logistics links with an emphasis on increasing the capacity of infrastructure, including for implementation of the Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor and the International North-South Transport Corridor, as well as using the potential of the Northern Sea Route. Eastern Maritime Corridor | WION Earlier in the day, the Indian PM was presented with the 'Order of St Andrew the Apostle' by the Russian president. PM Modi received the award for "his distinguished contribution to the development of a privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India and friendly ties between the two countries". Also read | PM Modi presented with ‘Order of St Andrew the Apostle’, Russia’s highest civilian honour PM Modi told President Putin that war is not a solution. Modi also highlighted how it gave him "immense pain" when innocent children were murdered. "I am happy that we could discuss about the war in Ukraine with an open mind, and we listened to each other's thoughts on the war with great respect," PM Modi said during bilateral talks with President Putin.

Modi-Putin deliver de-dollarisation blow to United States with ambitious trade target

<p>The preserved body of an American mountaineer -- who disappeared 22 years ago while scaling a snowy peak in Peru -- has been found after being exposed to climate change-induced ice melt, police said Monday.</p>

<p>William Stampfl was reported missing in June 2002, aged 59, when an avalanche buried his climbing party on the mountain Huascaran, which stands more than 6,700 meters (22,000 feet) high. Search and rescue efforts were fruitless.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Peru archaeologists unearth 1,000-year-old mummies of children in Lima</strong></p>

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<p>Peruvian police said his remains were finally exposed by ice melt on the Cordillera Blanca range of the Andes.</p>

<p>Stampfl's body, as well as his clothes, harness and boots had been well-preserved by the cold, according to images distributed by police.</p>

<p>His passport was found among his possessions, allowing police to identify the body.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/the-oldest-mummies-in-the-world-are-at-threat-from-climate-change-in-chile-738699">Chile: The oldest mummies in the world are at threat from climate change</a></strong></p>

<p>The mountains of northeastern Peru, home to snowy peaks such as Huascaran and Cashan, are a favourite with mountaineers from around the world.</p>

<p>In May, the body of an Israeli hiker was found there nearly a month after he disappeared.</p>

<p>And last month, an experienced Italian mountaineer was found dead after he fell while trying to scale another Andean peak.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


The preserved body of an American mountaineer -- who disappeared 22 years ago while scaling a snowy peak in Peru -- has been found after being exposed to climate change-induced ice melt, police said Monday.

The preserved body of an American mountaineer -- who disappeared 22 years ago while scaling a snowy peak in Peru -- has been found after being exposed to climate change-induced ice melt, police said Monday. William Stampfl was reported missing in June 2002, aged 59, when an avalanche buried his climbing party on the mountain Huascaran, which stands more than 6,700 meters (22,000 feet) high. Search and rescue efforts were fruitless. Also watch | Peru archaeologists unearth 1,000-year-old mummies of children in Lima × Peruvian police said his remains were finally exposed by ice melt on the Cordillera Blanca range of the Andes. Stampfl's body, as well as his clothes, harness and boots had been well-preserved by the cold, according to images distributed by police. His passport was found among his possessions, allowing police to identify the body. Also read | Chile: The oldest mummies in the world are at threat from climate change The mountains of northeastern Peru, home to snowy peaks such as Huascaran and Cashan, are a favourite with mountaineers from around the world. In May, the body of an Israeli hiker was found there nearly a month after he disappeared. And last month, an experienced Italian mountaineer was found dead after he fell while trying to scale another Andean peak. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ice melt reveals mummified body of American mountaineer who vanished in Peru 22 years ago

<p>Mihir Shah, the son of a Shiv Sena politician and the&nbsp;main accused in the hit-and-run case that resulted in the death of Kaveri Nakhawa and injured her husband Pradeep Nakhawa, was arrested by Mumbai Police on Tuesday (July 9) in the neighbouring Thane district.</p>

<p>The incident occurred on July 7 in the upscale Worli area of Mumbai.</p>

<p>The car, a BMW, was reportedly being driven by Mihir Shah and the driver Rajrishi Bidawat was sitting next to him. After the car hit the two-wheeler, the rider fell on the road but the deceased woman landed on the car’s bonnet. The vehicle dragged her for a distance and then drove off.</p>

<p>Mihir Shah and his driver Bidawat, abandoned the car a few kilometres away and fled.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-hit-and-run-case-cctv-shows-maharashtra-politicians-son-leaving-pub-before-crash-738980">Mumbai hit-and-run case: CCTV shows Maharashtra politician’s son leaving pub before crash</a></strong></p>

<p>Bidawat and Shah's father, Shiv Sena leader Rajesh Shah, were arrested earlier. While Rajesh Shah was released on bail on July 8, driver Bidawat remains in&nbsp;custody.</p>

<p>Mihir Shah was absconding until his arrest on July 9. The Mumbai Police had issued a Look Out Circular and formed six teams to trace him.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pune Porsche case: Bombay HC releases Pune Porsche crash minor accused</strong></p>

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<p>The arrest came&nbsp;after Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray questioned the delay despite the availability of surveillance cameras and intelligence networks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thackeray accused Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde of "grandstanding" and demanded action in the case.</p>

<p>The police have registered a case under multiple sections, including culpable homicide not amounting to murder, and will produce Shah in court to seek custody.</p>

<p>Public prosecutor Bharati Bhosale told the court that the accident was a heinous crime. "The deceased is a fisherwoman who had gone to bring fish from Sassoon Dock in Colaba with her husband, Pradeep. While returning, the BMW car hit their two-wheeler from behind."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Mihir Shah, the son of a Shiv Sena politician and the main accused in the hit-and-run case that resulted in the death of Kaveri Nakhawa and injured her husband Pradeep Nakhawa, was arrested by Mumbai Police on Tuesday (July 9) in the neighbouring Thane district.

Mihir Shah, the son of a Shiv Sena politician and the main accused in the hit-and-run case that resulted in the death of Kaveri Nakhawa and injured her husband Pradeep Nakhawa, was arrested by Mumbai Police on Tuesday (July 9) in the neighbouring Thane district. The incident occurred on July 7 in the upscale Worli area of Mumbai. The car, a BMW, was reportedly being driven by Mihir Shah and the driver Rajrishi Bidawat was sitting next to him. After the car hit the two-wheeler, the rider fell on the road but the deceased woman landed on the car’s bonnet. The vehicle dragged her for a distance and then drove off. Mihir Shah and his driver Bidawat, abandoned the car a few kilometres away and fled. Also read | Mumbai hit-and-run case: CCTV shows Maharashtra politician’s son leaving pub before crash Bidawat and Shah's father, Shiv Sena leader Rajesh Shah, were arrested earlier. While Rajesh Shah was released on bail on July 8, driver Bidawat remains in custody. Mihir Shah was absconding until his arrest on July 9. The Mumbai Police had issued a Look Out Circular and formed six teams to trace him. Also watch | Pune Porsche case: Bombay HC releases Pune Porsche crash minor accused × The arrest came after Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray questioned the delay despite the availability of surveillance cameras and intelligence networks. Thackeray accused Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde of "grandstanding" and demanded action in the case. The police have registered a case under multiple sections, including culpable homicide not amounting to murder, and will produce Shah in court to seek custody. Public prosecutor Bharati Bhosale told the court that the accident was a heinous crime. "The deceased is a fisherwoman who had gone to bring fish from Sassoon Dock in Colaba with her husband, Pradeep. While returning, the BMW car hit their two-wheeler from behind." (With inputs from agencies)

Mumbai hit-and-run case: Shiv Sena leader's son Mihir Shah arrested after absconding for three days

<p>The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully mapped the submerged structure of Adam's Bridge, also known as Ram Setu, an ancient bridge between India and Sri Lanka mentioned in Indian religious texts. The researchers used ICESat-2 data from October 2018 to October 2023 to generate a 10-metre resolution map of the full length of the submerged ridge, sufficient to capture details of the size of a train coach.</p>

<p>The detailed underwater map reveals the bridge's continuity from Dhanushkodi to Talaimannar, with a staggering 99.98 per cent of it submerged in shallow waters.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-visits-ram-setus-origin-point-offers-prayers-at-rameshwaram-temple-ahead-of-ram-temple-inauguration-682010">PM Modi visits Ram Setu's origin point, offers prayers at Rameshwaram temple ahead of Ram Temple inauguration</a></strong></p>

<p>According to a study published in the journal Scientific Reports, ISRO scientists used advanced laser technology from a US satellite to create a high-resolution map of the entire length of the submerged ridge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The research team, led by Giribabu Dandabathula, discovered 11 narrow channels that allow water to flow between the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Strait, and play&nbsp;a crucial role in preserving the structure from sea waves.</p>

<p>The study confirms the origins of Adam's Bridge or Ram Setu, which was once a land connection between India and Sri Lanka. The findings provide new insights into the region's history and the formation of this ancient structure.</p>

<h2><strong>History of Adam's Bridge: New revelations by ISRO study</strong></h2>

<p>The submerged structure was named Adam’s Bridge by an East India Company mapper. The structure described by Indians as Ram Setu, is mentioned in the Ramayana as a bridge constructed by Lord Ram’s army in order to help him reach Sri Lanka, Ravana’s kingdom, to rescue his wife Sita.</p>

<p><b>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/india-news/business-economy/pm-modi-walks-where-lord-rams-vanara-sena-built-ram-setu-1705855724713">PM Modi Walks Where Lord Ram’s Vanara Sena Built Ram Setu</a></b></p>

<p>Persian navigators in the ninth century AD referred to the bridge as <em>Sethu Bandhai</em> or a bridge over the sea. Temple records from Rameswaram indicate that the bridge was above sea level until 1480 when it was demolished by a powerful storm.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US Show: 'Ram Setu' could be man made</strong></p>

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<p>Earlier, satellite observations pointed to an undersea construction. But these observations were primarily focused on exposed sections of the bridge. The sea in the area is extremely shallow, ranging from one to ten metres deep in parts, making navigation and ship mapping of the ridge difficult.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully mapped the submerged structure of Adam's Bridge, also known as Ram Setu, an ancient bridge between India and Sri Lanka mentioned in Indian religious texts.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully mapped the submerged structure of Adam's Bridge, also known as Ram Setu, an ancient bridge between India and Sri Lanka mentioned in Indian religious texts. The researchers used ICESat-2 data from October 2018 to October 2023 to generate a 10-metre resolution map of the full length of the submerged ridge, sufficient to capture details of the size of a train coach. The detailed underwater map reveals the bridge's continuity from Dhanushkodi to Talaimannar, with a staggering 99.98 per cent of it submerged in shallow waters. Also read | PM Modi visits Ram Setu's origin point, offers prayers at Rameshwaram temple ahead of Ram Temple inauguration According to a study published in the journal Scientific Reports, ISRO scientists used advanced laser technology from a US satellite to create a high-resolution map of the entire length of the submerged ridge. The research team, led by Giribabu Dandabathula, discovered 11 narrow channels that allow water to flow between the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Strait, and play a crucial role in preserving the structure from sea waves. The study confirms the origins of Adam's Bridge or Ram Setu, which was once a land connection between India and Sri Lanka. The findings provide new insights into the region's history and the formation of this ancient structure. History of Adam's Bridge: New revelations by ISRO study The submerged structure was named Adam’s Bridge by an East India Company mapper. The structure described by Indians as Ram Setu, is mentioned in the Ramayana as a bridge constructed by Lord Ram’s army in order to help him reach Sri Lanka, Ravana’s kingdom, to rescue his wife Sita. Also read | PM Modi Walks Where Lord Ram’s Vanara Sena Built Ram Setu Persian navigators in the ninth century AD referred to the bridge as Sethu Bandhai or a bridge over the sea. Temple records from Rameswaram indicate that the bridge was above sea level until 1480 when it was demolished by a powerful storm. Also watch | US Show: 'Ram Setu' could be man made × Earlier, satellite observations pointed to an undersea construction. But these observations were primarily focused on exposed sections of the bridge. The sea in the area is extremely shallow, ranging from one to ten metres deep in parts, making navigation and ship mapping of the ridge difficult. (With inputs from agencies)

ISRO scientists uncover Ram Setu secrets with undersea map

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