<p>Have you ever been in a situation at an airport where you are unable to fly out for the reasons not in your control? Weather, for instance? Or just you reaching late to the gate to find your flight has already taken off.&nbsp;</p>

<p>What would you do to get out of such a situation? Contact airline, of course. But what if you run into the airline CEO itself?&nbsp;</p>

<p>A chance event like that took place with an American citizen in Doha.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/the-boeing-curse-aviation-giant-faces-a-tough-road-ahead-734104">'The Boeing Curse:' Aviation giant faces a tough road ahead</a></strong></p>

<p>The person, sister of an American entrepreneur, bagged a business ticket out of Doha after running into the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Qatar Airways at the airport.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a post shared on the social media platform X, Paul-Bernard Jaroslawski said his sister was unsuccessfully trying to fly out of the Qatari capital Doha and reach the United States with a standby ticket.</p>

<p>A standby ticket is an airline ticket that does not guarantee a seat on a specific flight but allows the traveller to wait at the airport and board a flight if there is a seat available after all confirmed passengers have boarded.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Turbulence in the skies: Are our flights safe?</strong></p>

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<p>Jawoslawski said that even though there were seats open on a flight from Doha to Chicago, the airline was refusing to take any more passengers by citing weight management issues.</p>

<p>Jaroslawski's sister stood under the departure screens wondering how she could reach the US.</p>

<p>"A man walked up to her and asked her why she is so sad. My sister told him everything about the situation," wrote Jaroslawski on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The man told her to wait at the business class lounge and assured that things would work out.</p>

<p>Turns out the stranger was none other than Badr Mohammed Al Meer, the CEO of Qatar Airways.</p>

<p>Jaroslawski's sister then got a business class ticket to New York City.</p>

<p>"Incredible the power some people hold in this world. With a snap of a finger everything went from sour to super sweet," Jaroslawski wrote on X on June 19.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Have you ever been in a situation at an airport where you are unable to fly out for the reasons not in your control? Weather, for instance? Or just you reaching late to the gate to find your flight has already taken off.

Have you ever been in a situation at an airport where you are unable to fly out for the reasons not in your control? Weather, for instance? Or just you reaching late to the gate to find your flight has already taken off. What would you do to get out of such a situation? Contact airline, of course. But what if you run into the airline CEO itself? A chance event like that took place with an American citizen in Doha. Also read | 'The Boeing Curse:' Aviation giant faces a tough road ahead The person, sister of an American entrepreneur, bagged a business ticket out of Doha after running into the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Qatar Airways at the airport. In a post shared on the social media platform X, Paul-Bernard Jaroslawski said his sister was unsuccessfully trying to fly out of the Qatari capital Doha and reach the United States with a standby ticket. A standby ticket is an airline ticket that does not guarantee a seat on a specific flight but allows the traveller to wait at the airport and board a flight if there is a seat available after all confirmed passengers have boarded. Also watch | Turbulence in the skies: Are our flights safe? × Jawoslawski said that even though there were seats open on a flight from Doha to Chicago, the airline was refusing to take any more passengers by citing weight management issues. Jaroslawski's sister stood under the departure screens wondering how she could reach the US. "A man walked up to her and asked her why she is so sad. My sister told him everything about the situation," wrote Jaroslawski on X. The man told her to wait at the business class lounge and assured that things would work out. Turns out the stranger was none other than Badr Mohammed Al Meer, the CEO of Qatar Airways. Jaroslawski's sister then got a business class ticket to New York City. "Incredible the power some people hold in this world. With a snap of a finger everything went from sour to super sweet," Jaroslawski wrote on X on June 19. (With inputs from agencies)

Standby ticket to business class: Qatar airways CEO turns fortune for stranded flyer

<p>The meteoric rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has taken over workplaces across the world looking to automate their functions in a potential threat to human jobs. Although a complete takeover of jobs by AI seems unlikely in the near future, a more immediate concern has emerged: individuals leveraging AI to outcompete others in the job market.</p>

<p>Recent research from Microsoft and LinkedIn revealed that those without AI skills risk falling behind in career opportunities compared to those who have embraced AI.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-unveil-secrets-of-imagination-memory-formation-with-artificial-intelligence-682056">Scientists unveil secrets of imagination, memory formation with Artificial Intelligence</a></strong></p>

<p>The study, which surveyed over 30,000 people across 31 countries, shows a significant shift in hiring practices. Nearly 70 per cent of business leaders now prioritise AI proficiency over traditional experience when making hiring decisions, favouring candidates with AI knowledge over more seasoned professionals lacking such skills.</p>

<p>Aneesh Raman, LinkedIn’s Vice President and workforce expert, told CNBC: "Learning basic AI skills — such as prompt engineering, machine learning, or data literacy — is the best insurance to shortcut your competitiveness against people who might have more experience."</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Younger candidates, such as the Gen-Z, who possess AI knowledge are likely to gain an advantage over their more experienced peers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gen Z, known for their digital savviness, is more likely to integrate AI tools at work compared to older generations like millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;75% employees already using AI at work: Report</strong></p>

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<p>The study further found that 77 per cent of leaders are more likely to assign significant responsibilities to early-career professionals with AI expertise.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Where all AI has started showing off its effect?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the report by Microsoft and LinkedIn, the use of generative AI tools in workplaces has doubled over the past six months. This trend extends beyond tech roles to fields such as architecture, project management, and administration, where professionals are increasingly seeking to build their AI skills.<img alt="AI at workplace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f180fbf1-0023-40ad-bb47-8fd87120c6ab" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/AIWorkforce.png" /></p>

<p>Even traditionally non-tech industries like healthcare, finance, and marketing are rapidly integrating AI technologies to improve operations and productivity. This swift adoption is driving demand for AI-proficient professionals and creating new job opportunities.</p>

<p>Some tech giants, including Google and Amazon, are investing in training their workforce in AI skills. But only a quarter of companies surveyed by Microsoft and LinkedIn plan to provide training on generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The meteoric rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has taken over workplaces across the world looking to automate their functions in a potential threat to human jobs.

The meteoric rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has taken over workplaces across the world looking to automate their functions in a potential threat to human jobs. Although a complete takeover of jobs by AI seems unlikely in the near future, a more immediate concern has emerged: individuals leveraging AI to outcompete others in the job market. Recent research from Microsoft and LinkedIn revealed that those without AI skills risk falling behind in career opportunities compared to those who have embraced AI. Also read | Scientists unveil secrets of imagination, memory formation with Artificial Intelligence The study, which surveyed over 30,000 people across 31 countries, shows a significant shift in hiring practices. Nearly 70 per cent of business leaders now prioritise AI proficiency over traditional experience when making hiring decisions, favouring candidates with AI knowledge over more seasoned professionals lacking such skills. Aneesh Raman, LinkedIn’s Vice President and workforce expert, told CNBC: "Learning basic AI skills — such as prompt engineering, machine learning, or data literacy — is the best insurance to shortcut your competitiveness against people who might have more experience." What does it mean? Younger candidates, such as the Gen-Z, who possess AI knowledge are likely to gain an advantage over their more experienced peers. Gen Z, known for their digital savviness, is more likely to integrate AI tools at work compared to older generations like millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers. Also watch | 75% employees already using AI at work: Report × The study further found that 77 per cent of leaders are more likely to assign significant responsibilities to early-career professionals with AI expertise. Where all AI has started showing off its effect? According to the report by Microsoft and LinkedIn, the use of generative AI tools in workplaces has doubled over the past six months. This trend extends beyond tech roles to fields such as architecture, project management, and administration, where professionals are increasingly seeking to build their AI skills. Even traditionally non-tech industries like healthcare, finance, and marketing are rapidly integrating AI technologies to improve operations and productivity. This swift adoption is driving demand for AI-proficient professionals and creating new job opportunities. Some tech giants, including Google and Amazon, are investing in training their workforce in AI skills. But only a quarter of companies surveyed by Microsoft and LinkedIn plan to provide training on generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot. (With inputs from agencies)

AI-savvy Gen-Z workers likely to outpace older generations at workplace: Study

<p>Fifteen people were shot during a violent incident at a Juneteenth celebration at Lake Merritt, Oakland&nbsp;— over 800 miles south of Washington DC&nbsp;— in the intervening night of June 19 and June 20. The event, which turned chaotic due to an illegal "sideshow," led police to search for multiple shooters as more than 50 shell casings were found at the scene.</p>

<p>No arrests had been made by Thursday afternoon (June 20).</p>

<h2><strong>Juneteenth shooting incident: What happened in Oakland?</strong></h2>

<p>The peaceful Juneteenth gathering, attended by approximately 5,000 people, was disrupted around 8:15 pm (local time) when about 20 vehicles, including all-terrain vehicles and dirt bikes, began a sideshow on the north side of the lake.</p>

<p>Sideshows, or street takeovers, involve dangerous stunts like doughnuts, drifting, and burnouts, often drawing large crowds and obstructing traffic.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US Elections 2024: US President Biden, VP Harris mark Juneteenth</strong></p>

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<p>The pattern of mass celebrations morphing into violent&nbsp;sideshows&nbsp;has become increasingly prevalent in cities across the United States, including Oakland.</p>

<p>Oakland Police Chief Floyd Mitchell reported that the violence escalated when an individual walked across the hood of a sideshow vehicle, prompting multiple occupants to exit the car and attack the person, who sustained injuries severe enough to require hospitalisation, Associated Press reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/juneteenth-2024-from-history-significance-to-special-events-all-you-need-to-know-733298">Juneteenth 2024: From history, significance to special events - All you need to know</a></strong></p>

<p>The potentially&nbsp;racist motivations in the incident could not be immediately ascertained.</p>

<p>The chaotic scene worsened as some in the crowd began attacking police officers.</p>

<p>A woman was arrested for assaulting an officer who was administering first aid to a gunshot victim.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among the victims, one person remained in critical condition, with ages ranging from 20 to 30 years old. Other injuries included the loss of fingers and minor gunshot wounds.</p>

<p>"The opportunity to celebrate with your family and friends should never be marred by gunfire," said Chief Mitchell during a Thursday news conference.</p>

<p>Juneteenth, observed on June 19, commemorates the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation and the end of the Civil War. The holiday was designated a federal holiday in 2021 and has since gained wider recognition, marked by numerous public festivities.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Fifteen people were shot during a violent incident at a Juneteenth celebration at Lake Merritt, Oakland — over 800 miles south of Washington DC — in the intervening night of June 19 and June 20.

Fifteen people were shot during a violent incident at a Juneteenth celebration at Lake Merritt, Oakland — over 800 miles south of Washington DC — in the intervening night of June 19 and June 20. The event, which turned chaotic due to an illegal "sideshow," led police to search for multiple shooters as more than 50 shell casings were found at the scene. No arrests had been made by Thursday afternoon (June 20). Juneteenth shooting incident: What happened in Oakland? The peaceful Juneteenth gathering, attended by approximately 5,000 people, was disrupted around 8:15 pm (local time) when about 20 vehicles, including all-terrain vehicles and dirt bikes, began a sideshow on the north side of the lake. Sideshows, or street takeovers, involve dangerous stunts like doughnuts, drifting, and burnouts, often drawing large crowds and obstructing traffic. Also watch | US Elections 2024: US President Biden, VP Harris mark Juneteenth × The pattern of mass celebrations morphing into violent sideshows has become increasingly prevalent in cities across the United States, including Oakland. Oakland Police Chief Floyd Mitchell reported that the violence escalated when an individual walked across the hood of a sideshow vehicle, prompting multiple occupants to exit the car and attack the person, who sustained injuries severe enough to require hospitalisation, Associated Press reported. Also read | Juneteenth 2024: From history, significance to special events - All you need to know The potentially racist motivations in the incident could not be immediately ascertained. The chaotic scene worsened as some in the crowd began attacking police officers. A woman was arrested for assaulting an officer who was administering first aid to a gunshot victim. Among the victims, one person remained in critical condition, with ages ranging from 20 to 30 years old. Other injuries included the loss of fingers and minor gunshot wounds. "The opportunity to celebrate with your family and friends should never be marred by gunfire," said Chief Mitchell during a Thursday news conference. Juneteenth, observed on June 19, commemorates the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation and the end of the Civil War. The holiday was designated a federal holiday in 2021 and has since gained wider recognition, marked by numerous public festivities. (With inputs from agencies)

Oakland Juneteenth celebrations morph into show of violence, 15 injured in shooting incident

<p>Palaeontologists have identified a new dinosaur species named Lokiceratops. Measuring about 22 feet (6.7 meters) in length and weighing around 11,000 pounds (5 metric tonnes), Lokiceratops stand out due to their crown-like elaborate headgear.</p>

<p>The plant-eating dinosaur belonged to the centrosaurines group and dates back 78 million years ago.</p>

<p>The findings are based on specimens&nbsp;excavated from the badlands of northern Montana and will be displayed at the Natural History Museum of Utah. They&nbsp;were&nbsp;published in PeerJ.</p>

<p>The species has been officially named <em>Lokiceratops rangiformis</em>, translating to "Loki’s horned face that looks like a caribou."</p>

<p>The name pays homage to the Norse god Loki, known for his horned helmet, and references the asymmetrical horn lengths on each side of its frill.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Climate change played key role in dominance of dinosaurs</strong></p>

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<p>Lokiceratops is part of the ceratopsid family, which first evolved around 92 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A new horned dinosaur found in the Cretaceous badlands of northern Montana reveals unexpectedly high diversity, suggesting elevated speciation rates and regional endemism in members of the group," Dr Mark Loewen, co-lead of the study and professor at the University of Utah told IFLScience.</p>

<p>The fossils suggest that horned dinosaurs were evolving within a small geographic area along the US-Canada border.</p>

<h2><b>Dinosaur's crown</b></h2>

<p>Lokiceratops' headgear is one of the largest frill horns among ceratopsians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Having a giant head like Lokiceratops required massive neck muscles to balance it on the body and lots of calories to grow as the animal matured," explained Dr Loewen.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/palaeontologists-discover-rare-pre-dinosaur-era-crocodile-like-species-733659">Palaeontologists discover rare pre-dinosaur era crocodile-like species</a></strong></p>

<p>"At the same time, it must have been so impressive to potential mates that it really was worth having such a huge head!"</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The discovery of <em>Lokiceratops</em> challenges previous assumptions that no more than two species of horned dinosaurs could co-exist.</p>

<p>Unlike many of its relatives, <em>Lokiceratops</em> did not have a nose horn, it has emerged.</p>


Palaeontologists have identified a new dinosaur species named Lokiceratops. Measuring about 22 feet (6.7 meters) in length and weighing around 11,000 pounds (5 metric tonnes), Lokiceratops stand out due to their crown-like elaborate headgear.

Palaeontologists have identified a new dinosaur species named Lokiceratops. Measuring about 22 feet (6.7 meters) in length and weighing around 11,000 pounds (5 metric tonnes), Lokiceratops stand out due to their crown-like elaborate headgear. The plant-eating dinosaur belonged to the centrosaurines group and dates back 78 million years ago. The findings are based on specimens excavated from the badlands of northern Montana and will be displayed at the Natural History Museum of Utah. They were published in PeerJ. The species has been officially named Lokiceratops rangiformis, translating to "Loki’s horned face that looks like a caribou." The name pays homage to the Norse god Loki, known for his horned helmet, and references the asymmetrical horn lengths on each side of its frill. Also watch | WION Climate Tracker: Climate change played key role in dominance of dinosaurs × Lokiceratops is part of the ceratopsid family, which first evolved around 92 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period. "A new horned dinosaur found in the Cretaceous badlands of northern Montana reveals unexpectedly high diversity, suggesting elevated speciation rates and regional endemism in members of the group," Dr Mark Loewen, co-lead of the study and professor at the University of Utah told IFLScience. The fossils suggest that horned dinosaurs were evolving within a small geographic area along the US-Canada border. Dinosaur's crown Lokiceratops' headgear is one of the largest frill horns among ceratopsians. "Having a giant head like Lokiceratops required massive neck muscles to balance it on the body and lots of calories to grow as the animal matured," explained Dr Loewen. Also read | Palaeontologists discover rare pre-dinosaur era crocodile-like species "At the same time, it must have been so impressive to potential mates that it really was worth having such a huge head!" What does it mean? The discovery of Lokiceratops challenges previous assumptions that no more than two species of horned dinosaurs could co-exist. Unlike many of its relatives, Lokiceratops did not have a nose horn, it has emerged.

Jurassic king with a crown? Scientists discover fancy headgear on 78-million-year-old dinosaur

<p>India issued just 2,000 visas to Chinese nationals in 2024 compared to 200,000 visas issued in 2019-20. According to a report in the Hindustan Times, about 200,000 visas were issued to Chinese nationals in 2019 before Covid pandemic and the June 15, 2020 Galwan clash.</p>

<p>This number was brought down to just 2,000 in 2024 following a structural screening of Chinese nationals seeking to visit India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On June 15, 2020, twenty Indian soldiers died on the line of duty while thwarting a PLA incursion into Indian territory in eastern Ladakh. An undisclosed number of Chinese soldiers also lost their lives in the clash. The ties between India and China subsequently went down the slope amid Chinese expansionist ambitions that face persistent strategic challenge from India&nbsp;and beyond the unresolved Himalayan frontiers between the two Asian powerhouses.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/taiwan-slams-china-for-protesting-against-india-over-election-congratulatory-message-729743">Taiwan slams China for protesting against India over election congratulatory message</a></b></p>

<p>The Hindustan Times report added that the government has granted around 1,500 visas to Chinese nationals in recent months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Of these, around 1,000 visas were issued to meet the requirements of the Indian electronics industry, it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another 1,000 visas of Chinese nationals are reportedly being processed, primarily for the electronics sector, following rigorous screening procedures.</p>

<p>The last full-fledged bilateral meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese leader Xi Jinping took place in November 2019 in Brazil during BRICS summit. Seven months later, in June 2020, the India-China ties ebbed to the lowest in decades after Galwan clash.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Is China increasing its nuclear stockpile with an eye on India?</strong></p>

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<p>New Delhi has called for the restoration of status quo along the Line of Actual Control. Over 50,000 troops and heavy equipment continue to be deployed on both sides of the Line of Actual Control.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Beijing on June 5, 2024,&nbsp;congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on winning a third term in power and said it stands ready to work with India bearing in mind the overall interests of bilateral ties.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India issued just 2,000 visas to Chinese nationals in 2024 compared to 200,000 visas issued in 2019-20. According to a report in the Hindustan Times, about 200,000 visas were issued to Chinese nationals in 2019 before Covid pandemic and the June 15, 2020 Galwan clash.

India issued just 2,000 visas to Chinese nationals in 2024 compared to 200,000 visas issued in 2019-20. According to a report in the Hindustan Times, about 200,000 visas were issued to Chinese nationals in 2019 before Covid pandemic and the June 15, 2020 Galwan clash. This number was brought down to just 2,000 in 2024 following a structural screening of Chinese nationals seeking to visit India. On June 15, 2020, twenty Indian soldiers died on the line of duty while thwarting a PLA incursion into Indian territory in eastern Ladakh. An undisclosed number of Chinese soldiers also lost their lives in the clash. The ties between India and China subsequently went down the slope amid Chinese expansionist ambitions that face persistent strategic challenge from India and beyond the unresolved Himalayan frontiers between the two Asian powerhouses. Also read | Taiwan slams China for protesting against India over election congratulatory message The Hindustan Times report added that the government has granted around 1,500 visas to Chinese nationals in recent months. Of these, around 1,000 visas were issued to meet the requirements of the Indian electronics industry, it added. Another 1,000 visas of Chinese nationals are reportedly being processed, primarily for the electronics sector, following rigorous screening procedures. The last full-fledged bilateral meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese leader Xi Jinping took place in November 2019 in Brazil during BRICS summit. Seven months later, in June 2020, the India-China ties ebbed to the lowest in decades after Galwan clash. Also watch | Gravitas: Is China increasing its nuclear stockpile with an eye on India? × New Delhi has called for the restoration of status quo along the Line of Actual Control. Over 50,000 troops and heavy equipment continue to be deployed on both sides of the Line of Actual Control. Meanwhile, Beijing on June 5, 2024, congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on winning a third term in power and said it stands ready to work with India bearing in mind the overall interests of bilateral ties. (With inputs from agencies)

From 200,000 to barely 2,000: India clamps down on visas issued to Chinese nationals

<p>Remember Corsica,&nbsp;the French island made famous by popular comic book character Asterix?&nbsp;Well, for the lovers of Hindi cinema, it's the island Ved and Tara went holidaying in Imtiaz Ali's 2015 film Tamasha.</p>

<p>Corsica is back in the news&nbsp;with a bang, quite literally, as the authorities reported a sonic boom on the picturesque island on Thursday (June 20).</p>

<p>Experts said that the sonic boom heard in Italy's Tuscany and the French island of Corsica may have been a meteorite. The sonic boom was initially mistaken by holidaymakers, locals and officials for an earthquake.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The town of Campo nell’Elba, on the Italian tourist island of Elba, said on its Facebook page that a nearby tracking station had “captured a seismic, acoustic event felt by everyone” at 4:30 pm (1430 GMT).</p>

<p>Later, reports in the Corsican media said it was also felt on the island.</p>

<p>Tuscany regional government president Eugenio Giani initially said it was an earthquake. But Giani later backtracked from his comments as Italy's National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) ruled out an earthquake.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Italian Air Force told Giani it had nothing to do with the sonic boom.</p>

<p>"The type of event which caused the tremor, felt by many as an earthquake over the entire coast of Tuscany and in some inland areas, is currently unconfirmed," Giani wrote on social media.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Explosion in Punjab province: Authorities suspect 'Sonic Boom'</strong></p>

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<p>The region's Geophysics Institute and the University of Florence said in a joint statement that whatever caused the boom was travelling at 400 miles per second.</p>

<p>"A meteorite entering the atmosphere seems the most likely and in line with the data registered".</p>

<p>The Corriere della Sera daily quoted an unnamed person from Italy's civil protection agency saying "the impact would have been registered by seismographs. The most likely hypothesis is still an airplane".</p>

<p>Notably, it's not the first time a mysterious sonic boom has been registered. Similar events in 2012, 2016 and 2023 have yet to be explained.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Remember Corsica, the French island made famous by popular comic book character Asterix? Well, for the lovers of Hindi cinema, it's the island Ved and Tara went holidaying in Imtiaz Ali's 2015 film Tamasha.

Remember Corsica, the French island made famous by popular comic book character Asterix? Well, for the lovers of Hindi cinema, it's the island Ved and Tara went holidaying in Imtiaz Ali's 2015 film Tamasha. Corsica is back in the news with a bang, quite literally, as the authorities reported a sonic boom on the picturesque island on Thursday (June 20). Experts said that the sonic boom heard in Italy's Tuscany and the French island of Corsica may have been a meteorite. The sonic boom was initially mistaken by holidaymakers, locals and officials for an earthquake. The town of Campo nell’Elba, on the Italian tourist island of Elba, said on its Facebook page that a nearby tracking station had “captured a seismic, acoustic event felt by everyone” at 4:30 pm (1430 GMT). Later, reports in the Corsican media said it was also felt on the island. Tuscany regional government president Eugenio Giani initially said it was an earthquake. But Giani later backtracked from his comments as Italy's National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) ruled out an earthquake. The Italian Air Force told Giani it had nothing to do with the sonic boom. "The type of event which caused the tremor, felt by many as an earthquake over the entire coast of Tuscany and in some inland areas, is currently unconfirmed," Giani wrote on social media. Also watch | Explosion in Punjab province: Authorities suspect 'Sonic Boom' × The region's Geophysics Institute and the University of Florence said in a joint statement that whatever caused the boom was travelling at 400 miles per second. "A meteorite entering the atmosphere seems the most likely and in line with the data registered". The Corriere della Sera daily quoted an unnamed person from Italy's civil protection agency saying "the impact would have been registered by seismographs. The most likely hypothesis is still an airplane". Notably, it's not the first time a mysterious sonic boom has been registered. Similar events in 2012, 2016 and 2023 have yet to be explained. (With inputs from agencies)

Remember Corsica from Tamasha? A mysterious sonic boom has rattled French island

<p>Two teenage French boys were charged with sexual assault of a 12-year-old Jewish girl they reportedly described as "dirty jew" in a stark cast from the past of the country's anti-jew record during the second world war. The incident spark widespread outrage across France and Jewish groups took to the streets to protest rising antisemitism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Emmanuel consequently acknowledged that schools in France are being threatened by the "scourge of antisemitism" as the police said that the incident was indeed a hate crime. The French president, currently campaigning for the snap polls announced in response to his party's trouncing in European Parliament elections, tasked his education minister Nicole Belloubet with ensuring&nbsp;sensitisation in schools about antisemitism.</p>

<p>"The horror has no limits. Rape, antisemitism: Everything is abominable in this crime committed in Courbevoie against a 12-year-old girl," Belloubet wrote on X, formerly Twitter. She added, "Justice, School, Republic: a single response against barbarism."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-semitic-crimes-surge-in-france-over-1000-acts-recorded-since-october-7-hamas-attack-655582">Antisemitic crimes surge in France: Over 1,000 acts recorded since October 7 Hamas attack</a></strong></p>

<p>Two 13-year-old boys were indicted on June 18&nbsp;on multiple charges, including sexual assault.</p>

<p>A third boy, aged 12, was charged with offences related to witnessing the alleged crime.</p>

<p>The French newspaper Le Monde called the police report "unbearable" in its details.</p>

<p>In recent years, French Jews have been victims of several acts of antisemitism.</p>

<p>Jewish groups have reported a spike in reported acts of antisemitism following Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel and the consequent war in Gaza.</p>

<p>Haim Korsia, France’s chief rabbi, wrote on X that he was "horrified” by the alleged rape. “Justice must firmly sanction the perpetrators of this despicable act,” Korsia wrote.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gaza siege triggers rise in anti-antisemitism; France, Russia witness anti-Jew sentiment | WION</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, Marine Le Pen's National Rally withdrew its support for a local candidate who said in a now-deleted 2018 social media post that "gas did justice for the victims of the Holocaust."</p>

<p>Marine Le Pen also joined politicians from across the political spectrum in denouncing the sexual assault.</p>

<p>"The antisemitic attack and the rape of a 12-year-old child in Hauts-de-Seine revolt us," Le Pen wrote on X.</p>

<p>"The explosion of antisemitic acts, up 300% compared to the first three months of 2023, must alert all French people: the stigmatization of Jews for months by the far left through the instrumentalization of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a real threat to civil peace. Everyone should be fully aware of this on June 30 and July 7," when elections are scheduled.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Two teenage French boys were charged with sexual assault of a 12-year-old Jewish girl they reportedly described as "dirty jew" in a stark cast from the past of the country's anti-jew record during the second world war.

Two teenage French boys were charged with sexual assault of a 12-year-old Jewish girl they reportedly described as "dirty jew" in a stark cast from the past of the country's anti-jew record during the second world war. The incident spark widespread outrage across France and Jewish groups took to the streets to protest rising antisemitism. President Emmanuel consequently acknowledged that schools in France are being threatened by the "scourge of antisemitism" as the police said that the incident was indeed a hate crime. The French president, currently campaigning for the snap polls announced in response to his party's trouncing in European Parliament elections, tasked his education minister Nicole Belloubet with ensuring sensitisation in schools about antisemitism. "The horror has no limits. Rape, antisemitism: Everything is abominable in this crime committed in Courbevoie against a 12-year-old girl," Belloubet wrote on X, formerly Twitter. She added, "Justice, School, Republic: a single response against barbarism." Also read | Antisemitic crimes surge in France: Over 1,000 acts recorded since October 7 Hamas attack Two 13-year-old boys were indicted on June 18 on multiple charges, including sexual assault. A third boy, aged 12, was charged with offences related to witnessing the alleged crime. The French newspaper Le Monde called the police report "unbearable" in its details. In recent years, French Jews have been victims of several acts of antisemitism. Jewish groups have reported a spike in reported acts of antisemitism following Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel and the consequent war in Gaza. Haim Korsia, France’s chief rabbi, wrote on X that he was "horrified” by the alleged rape. “Justice must firmly sanction the perpetrators of this despicable act,” Korsia wrote. Also watch | Gaza siege triggers rise in anti-antisemitism; France, Russia witness anti-Jew sentiment | WION × Meanwhile, Marine Le Pen's National Rally withdrew its support for a local candidate who said in a now-deleted 2018 social media post that "gas did justice for the victims of the Holocaust." Marine Le Pen also joined politicians from across the political spectrum in denouncing the sexual assault. "The antisemitic attack and the rape of a 12-year-old child in Hauts-de-Seine revolt us," Le Pen wrote on X. "The explosion of antisemitic acts, up 300% compared to the first three months of 2023, must alert all French people: the stigmatization of Jews for months by the far left through the instrumentalization of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a real threat to civil peace. Everyone should be fully aware of this on June 30 and July 7," when elections are scheduled. (With inputs from agencies)

France on boil after alleged rape of 12-year-old Jewish girl

<p class="MsoNormal">According to a study undertaken by venture capital firm Accel, the United Kingdom has the most generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) startup companies in Europe and Israel.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><b>Startup distribution across Europe<o:p></o:p></b></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Accel's examination of 221 GenAI startups revealed that the UK was home to 30 per cent of these innovative companies. Germany comes in second with 14 per cent, closely followed by Israel with 13 per cent. France and the Netherlands are also big contributors, accounting for 11 per cent and 6 per cent of GenAI startups, respectively.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><b>Factors driving UK's leadership<o:p></o:p></b></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Several reasons contribute to the United Kingdom's leadership in GenAI technology. Its best universities, notably the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University College London, and Oxford University, are known for developing outstanding AI talent. The development of DeepMind in 2010, a pioneering AI startup acquired by Google, cemented the UK's standing as an AI innovation engine. Furthermore, significant investments from big US technology businesses have aided the establishment of GenAI startups in the country.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Accel stated that, despite the UK leading in the number of GenAI startups, French businesses have raised the most funding in recent years. Mistral, a Paris-based startup that is widely regarded as a European competitor to OpenAI, raised 600 million euros ($644 million) in its most recent fundraising round, putting the business's value at 5.8 billion euros.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><b>Funding trends and outlook<o:p></o:p></b></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Global GenAI startups raised more than $25 billion in funding in 2023, with that figure likely to rise to around $45 billion this year, according to Accel. The survey also revealed that many GenAI founders have previously worked for tech titans such as Alphabet, Apple, Amazon, DeepMind, Meta, or Microsoft, highlighting the industry's close ties to major tech ecosystems.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"When looking deeper at these companies' roots, we begin to see where the main GenAI talent hubs exist in the region and the common paths founders take," said Harry Nelis, an Accel partner. He said that more than one-third of GenAI business founders have academic credentials, demonstrating the industry's reliance on academic research and knowledge.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><i>(With inputs from Agencies)</i><o:p></o:p></p>


According to a study undertaken by venture capital firm Accel, the United Kingdom has the most generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) startup companies in Europe and Israel.

According to a study undertaken by venture capital firm Accel, the United Kingdom has the most generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) startup companies in Europe and Israel. Startup distribution across Europe Accel's examination of 221 GenAI startups revealed that the UK was home to 30 per cent of these innovative companies. Germany comes in second with 14 per cent, closely followed by Israel with 13 per cent. France and the Netherlands are also big contributors, accounting for 11 per cent and 6 per cent of GenAI startups, respectively. Factors driving UK's leadership Several reasons contribute to the United Kingdom's leadership in GenAI technology. Its best universities, notably the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University College London, and Oxford University, are known for developing outstanding AI talent. The development of DeepMind in 2010, a pioneering AI startup acquired by Google, cemented the UK's standing as an AI innovation engine. Furthermore, significant investments from big US technology businesses have aided the establishment of GenAI startups in the country. Accel stated that, despite the UK leading in the number of GenAI startups, French businesses have raised the most funding in recent years. Mistral, a Paris-based startup that is widely regarded as a European competitor to OpenAI, raised 600 million euros ($644 million) in its most recent fundraising round, putting the business's value at 5.8 billion euros. Funding trends and outlook Global GenAI startups raised more than $25 billion in funding in 2023, with that figure likely to rise to around $45 billion this year, according to Accel. The survey also revealed that many GenAI founders have previously worked for tech titans such as Alphabet, Apple, Amazon, DeepMind, Meta, or Microsoft, highlighting the industry's close ties to major tech ecosystems. "When looking deeper at these companies' roots, we begin to see where the main GenAI talent hubs exist in the region and the common paths founders take," said Harry Nelis, an Accel partner. He said that more than one-third of GenAI business founders have academic credentials, demonstrating the industry's reliance on academic research and knowledge. (With inputs from Agencies)

UK leads Europe and Israel in generative AI startup landscape

<p class="MsoNormal">The VanEck Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) made its historic debut on Thursday (June 20) on Australia's primary stock exchange, fulfilling investor demand for cryptocurrency exposure in the wake of a rebound in market interest.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><b>Fund launch and structure<o:p></o:p></b></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">On the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), the VanEck Bitcoin ETF made its debut with assets of about A$990,000 ($660,429). This exchange-traded fund (ETF) will invest in the U.S.-listed VanEck Bitcoin Trust, which debuted earlier this year, as opposed to conventional ETFs that hold tangible assets. Through this method, Australian investors can obtain Bitcoin indirectly without really possessing the cryptocurrency.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><b>Global context and market response<o:p></o:p></b></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Ever since US regulators approved several comparable products in January, which resulted in large capital inflows, interest in bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) has increased globally. With the launch of its own ETF in April, Hong Kong followed following, albeit with less enthusiasm from the market than the US trend.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><b>Bitcoin market performance and investor sentiment<o:p></o:p></b></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Coin values have nearly tripled since 2023, but after peaking in March, they have stabilised recently. The debut coincides with this optimistic trend. Investor interest in gaining exposure to digital assets through regulated investment vehicles has increased because of the market's performance.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><b>Competitive Landscape and Outlook<o:p></o:p></b></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Although VanEck's debut on the ASX is historic, some bitcoin ETFs are currently available on a rival exchange run by CBOE Global Markets' local affiliate. But the VanEck Bitcoin ETF is the first to launch on the main ASX market, making its ticker board debut among well-known Australian companies like BHP and Commonwealth Bank.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><i>(With inputs from Agencies)</i><o:p></o:p></p>


The VanEck Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) made its historic debut on Thursday (June 20) on Australia's primary stock exchange, fulfilling investor demand for cryptocurrency exposure in the wake of a rebound in market interest.

The VanEck Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) made its historic debut on Thursday (June 20) on Australia's primary stock exchange, fulfilling investor demand for cryptocurrency exposure in the wake of a rebound in market interest. Fund launch and structure On the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), the VanEck Bitcoin ETF made its debut with assets of about A$990,000 ($660,429). This exchange-traded fund (ETF) will invest in the U.S.-listed VanEck Bitcoin Trust, which debuted earlier this year, as opposed to conventional ETFs that hold tangible assets. Through this method, Australian investors can obtain Bitcoin indirectly without really possessing the cryptocurrency. Global context and market response Ever since US regulators approved several comparable products in January, which resulted in large capital inflows, interest in bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) has increased globally. With the launch of its own ETF in April, Hong Kong followed following, albeit with less enthusiasm from the market than the US trend. Bitcoin market performance and investor sentiment Coin values have nearly tripled since 2023, but after peaking in March, they have stabilised recently. The debut coincides with this optimistic trend. Investor interest in gaining exposure to digital assets through regulated investment vehicles has increased because of the market's performance. Competitive Landscape and Outlook Although VanEck's debut on the ASX is historic, some bitcoin ETFs are currently available on a rival exchange run by CBOE Global Markets' local affiliate. But the VanEck Bitcoin ETF is the first to launch on the main ASX market, making its ticker board debut among well-known Australian companies like BHP and Commonwealth Bank. (With inputs from Agencies)

VanEck launches first bitcoin ETF on Australian Stock Exchange amid crypto resurgence

<p>Walking three times a week can nearly halve the risk of recurrent back pain, a study has revealed. This research, the first of its kind, offers hope to the approximately 800 million people worldwide who suffer from low back pain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, seven out of ten individuals who recover from an episode of back pain experience recurrence within a year.</p>

<p>The findings, published in The Lancet, point out the potential of walking to significantly impact the leading cause of disability globally.</p>

<p>"You don’t need to be walking 5 or 10 kilometres every day to get these benefits," Mark Hancock, the study’s senior author and a professor of physiotherapy at Macquarie University in Australia was quoted as saying by The Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/life-fun/health-and-wellness/6-reasons-why-walking-daily-is-essential-for-wellbeing-1706604558547">6 Reasons Why Walking Daily is Essential for Well-Being</a></strong></p>

<p>"The key is to start with short walks and gradually increase the distance and intensity as your fitness improves."</p>

<p>Researchers in the study added that walking is a low-cost, accessible exercise that can be incorporated into nearly anyone's routine, regardless of geographic location, age, or socioeconomic status.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Participants who walked three to five times a week, averaging 130 minutes per week, remained pain-free for nearly twice as long compared to those who did not engage in any treatment. Regular walking also enhanced their quality of life and significantly reduced the time they needed to take off work.</p>

<h2><strong>Walking it out: How the study was conducted?</strong></h2>

<p>This research has been described as the world’s first randomised controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of walking in preventing low back pain recurrence. It tracked 701 adults over three years. All participants had recently experienced an episode of low back pain. Half of the participants were enrolled in a walking scheme combined with educational sessions from a physiotherapist, while the other half received no specific intervention.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Tech helps Parkinson's patient walk again</strong></p>

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<p>"The intervention group experienced fewer episodes of activity-limiting pain and had a longer average period before a recurrence, with a median of 208 days compared to 112 days for the control group," Hancock said. "The risk of a recurrence that required seeking care was nearly halved for those in the intervention group."</p>

<h2><strong>How much walking is enough to prevent back pain?</strong></h2>

<p>Participants were encouraged to gradually build up to walking 30 minutes, five times a week, over six months. After three months, most participants were walking three to five days a week, averaging a total of 130 minutes.</p>

<p>While the exact reasons walking is effective in preventing back pain are not fully understood, Hancock suggested that the benefits likely stem from a combination of gentle movements, loading and strengthening of spinal structures and muscles, relaxation and stress relief, and the release of endorphins.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Walking also offers numerous other health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, bone density, weight management, and mental health.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Walking three times a week can nearly halve the risk of recurrent back pain, a study has revealed. This research, the first of its kind, offers hope to the approximately 800 million people worldwide who suffer from low back pain.

Walking three times a week can nearly halve the risk of recurrent back pain, a study has revealed. This research, the first of its kind, offers hope to the approximately 800 million people worldwide who suffer from low back pain. Notably, seven out of ten individuals who recover from an episode of back pain experience recurrence within a year. The findings, published in The Lancet, point out the potential of walking to significantly impact the leading cause of disability globally. "You don’t need to be walking 5 or 10 kilometres every day to get these benefits," Mark Hancock, the study’s senior author and a professor of physiotherapy at Macquarie University in Australia was quoted as saying by The Guardian. Also read | 6 Reasons Why Walking Daily is Essential for Well-Being "The key is to start with short walks and gradually increase the distance and intensity as your fitness improves." Researchers in the study added that walking is a low-cost, accessible exercise that can be incorporated into nearly anyone's routine, regardless of geographic location, age, or socioeconomic status. Participants who walked three to five times a week, averaging 130 minutes per week, remained pain-free for nearly twice as long compared to those who did not engage in any treatment. Regular walking also enhanced their quality of life and significantly reduced the time they needed to take off work. Walking it out: How the study was conducted? This research has been described as the world’s first randomised controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of walking in preventing low back pain recurrence. It tracked 701 adults over three years. All participants had recently experienced an episode of low back pain. Half of the participants were enrolled in a walking scheme combined with educational sessions from a physiotherapist, while the other half received no specific intervention. Also watch | Tech helps Parkinson's patient walk again × "The intervention group experienced fewer episodes of activity-limiting pain and had a longer average period before a recurrence, with a median of 208 days compared to 112 days for the control group," Hancock said. "The risk of a recurrence that required seeking care was nearly halved for those in the intervention group." How much walking is enough to prevent back pain? Participants were encouraged to gradually build up to walking 30 minutes, five times a week, over six months. After three months, most participants were walking three to five days a week, averaging a total of 130 minutes. While the exact reasons walking is effective in preventing back pain are not fully understood, Hancock suggested that the benefits likely stem from a combination of gentle movements, loading and strengthening of spinal structures and muscles, relaxation and stress relief, and the release of endorphins. Walking also offers numerous other health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, bone density, weight management, and mental health. (With inputs from agencies)

Walking three times a week almost halves back pain flare up: Study

<p>Germany's intelligence agency has flagged the jihadist threat posed by the followers of Afghanistan-based Islamic State offshoot and related domestic extremism in Germany. The report by BfV comes amid growing anti-immigrant sentiment in Germany, reflected most recently in the surge of far-right parties during the European Union parliamentary elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It estimated the strength of global jihadist organisations at 27,200.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The group, designated ISPK by the German intelligence service, "has managed to bring followers to Western Europe, possibly with the wave of refugees from Ukraine, who are now staying here in various Western European countries," Director General Thomas Haldenwang told the media on Tuesday (June 18).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The senior official of German intelligence agency BfV and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser presented an annual report on the intelligence operations, including a July 2023 operation that involved a series of arrests in Germany and the Netherlands.</p>

<p>The German authorities had arrested a total of nine people hailing from Central Asia, seven amongst whom lived in Germany. They are accused of founding a "domestic terrorist group" and preparing major attacks on European soil.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Terror attack in Moscow: Moscow concert hall shooting updates</strong></p>

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<p>The group was allegedly in contact with ISPK, also known as ISIS-K, and had entered the European Union from Ukraine “almost simultaneously,” according to German security officials. The suspects were described as “black sheep” among Ukrainians when the arrests happened.</p>

<p>The Afghanistan-based offshoot of the Islamic State&nbsp;has a large number of supporters and calls for "major attacks", the German intelligence chief said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-concert-hall-attack-more-than-one-isis-branch-likely-involved-in-rampage-says-report-703744">Moscow concert hall attack: More than one ISIS branch likely involved in rampage, says report</a></strong></p>

<p>Russia believes that Ukrainian intelligence services had facilitated the Crocus City Hall attack outside Moscow, which left over 145 people dead in March 2024. But it is deemed possible that the ISPK could have simply given its brand name to the plot which helped the real kingpins of the terrorist plot to recruit the terrorists for the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 400-page-long report by the BfV covers a wide spectrum of threats such as domestic extremism and foreign espionage.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Germany's intelligence agency has flagged the jihadist threat posed by the followers of Afghanistan-based Islamic State offshoot and related domestic extremism in Germany.

Germany's intelligence agency has flagged the jihadist threat posed by the followers of Afghanistan-based Islamic State offshoot and related domestic extremism in Germany. The report by BfV comes amid growing anti-immigrant sentiment in Germany, reflected most recently in the surge of far-right parties during the European Union parliamentary elections. It estimated the strength of global jihadist organisations at 27,200. The group, designated ISPK by the German intelligence service, "has managed to bring followers to Western Europe, possibly with the wave of refugees from Ukraine, who are now staying here in various Western European countries," Director General Thomas Haldenwang told the media on Tuesday (June 18). The senior official of German intelligence agency BfV and Interior Minister Nancy Faeser presented an annual report on the intelligence operations, including a July 2023 operation that involved a series of arrests in Germany and the Netherlands. The German authorities had arrested a total of nine people hailing from Central Asia, seven amongst whom lived in Germany. They are accused of founding a "domestic terrorist group" and preparing major attacks on European soil. Also watch | Terror attack in Moscow: Moscow concert hall shooting updates × The group was allegedly in contact with ISPK, also known as ISIS-K, and had entered the European Union from Ukraine “almost simultaneously,” according to German security officials. The suspects were described as “black sheep” among Ukrainians when the arrests happened. The Afghanistan-based offshoot of the Islamic State has a large number of supporters and calls for "major attacks", the German intelligence chief said. Also read | Moscow concert hall attack: More than one ISIS branch likely involved in rampage, says report Russia believes that Ukrainian intelligence services had facilitated the Crocus City Hall attack outside Moscow, which left over 145 people dead in March 2024. But it is deemed possible that the ISPK could have simply given its brand name to the plot which helped the real kingpins of the terrorist plot to recruit the terrorists for the attack. The 400-page-long report by the BfV covers a wide spectrum of threats such as domestic extremism and foreign espionage. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany flags wartime immigration from Ukraine as terror threat

<p class="MsoNormal">The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) warned on Monday (June 17) that rising food costs impede recent gains in lowering inflation, signalling that attempts to reduce prices would continue. The central bank stated that unpredictable food prices could increase headline inflation numbers following a temporary drop below the target in the second quarter of 2024/25.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"Consequently, a resolute commitment to a durable alignment of headline inflation with the target will warrant careful monitoring of spillovers from food price pressures to core inflation and inflation expectations," the Reserve Bank of India said.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><b>Retail and core inflation trends<o:p></o:p></b></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Annual retail inflation was 4.75 per cent in May, down slightly from 4.83 per cent in April and lower than the 4.89 per cent expected by a Reuters survey of 50 experts. Core inflation, on the other hand, fell to a historic low of around 3.12 per cent. Despite these findings, the RBI remains concerned about the impact of persistently high food prices on broader inflation patterns.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><b>Economic growth and domestic demand<o:p></o:p></b></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">While inflation remains a significant issue, the RBI stated that high-frequency indications suggest continued growth in domestic demand in the first quarter of 2024/25. The central bank also expects GDP growth to continue at the pace seen in the preceding quarter. According to the economic activity index, Q1 GDP is estimated to be around 7.4 per cent, with official figures coming in August.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Furthermore, the RBI stated that agricultural prospects are improving, with an expected above-normal southwest monsoon. "This should augur well for spurring rural demand and, in turn, support private consumption," it stated.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><b>Monetary policy focus<o:p></o:p></b></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">In a speech on Tuesday (June 18), RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das underlined the need for India to avoid "adventurism" and continue to work on lowering inflation towards the objective. Despite mounting calls for a shift in monetary policy, Das stressed the significance of remaining conservative to secure long-term economic stability.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><i>(With inputs from Agencies)</i><o:p></o:p></p>


The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) warned on Monday (June 17) that rising food costs impede recent gains in lowering inflation, signalling that attempts to reduce prices would continue.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) warned on Monday (June 17) that rising food costs impede recent gains in lowering inflation, signalling that attempts to reduce prices would continue. The central bank stated that unpredictable food prices could increase headline inflation numbers following a temporary drop below the target in the second quarter of 2024/25. "Consequently, a resolute commitment to a durable alignment of headline inflation with the target will warrant careful monitoring of spillovers from food price pressures to core inflation and inflation expectations," the Reserve Bank of India said. Retail and core inflation trends Annual retail inflation was 4.75 per cent in May, down slightly from 4.83 per cent in April and lower than the 4.89 per cent expected by a Reuters survey of 50 experts. Core inflation, on the other hand, fell to a historic low of around 3.12 per cent. Despite these findings, the RBI remains concerned about the impact of persistently high food prices on broader inflation patterns. Economic growth and domestic demand While inflation remains a significant issue, the RBI stated that high-frequency indications suggest continued growth in domestic demand in the first quarter of 2024/25. The central bank also expects GDP growth to continue at the pace seen in the preceding quarter. According to the economic activity index, Q1 GDP is estimated to be around 7.4 per cent, with official figures coming in August. Furthermore, the RBI stated that agricultural prospects are improving, with an expected above-normal southwest monsoon. "This should augur well for spurring rural demand and, in turn, support private consumption," it stated. Monetary policy focus In a speech on Tuesday (June 18), RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das underlined the need for India to avoid "adventurism" and continue to work on lowering inflation towards the objective. Despite mounting calls for a shift in monetary policy, Das stressed the significance of remaining conservative to secure long-term economic stability. (With inputs from Agencies)

RBI cautions high food prices hampering inflation control efforts

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Mukul Sharma

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