China on Monday (March 4) inked a defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives that will offer the island nation free military aid to promote "stronger" bilateral ties.

The move comes weeks after President Mohamed Muizzu set a deadline for the departure of the first contingent of Indian military personnel from his country.

The Defence Minister of the Maldives Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon met with Major General Zhang Baoqun, Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of China, and discussed strengthening defence cooperation between the two nations.

Maumoon and Major General Baoqun "signed an agreement on China's provision of military assistance gratis to the Republic of Maldives, fostering stronger bilateral ties," the Maldivian defence ministry posted on its X handle.

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Minister of Defence <a href="https://twitter.com/mgmaumoon?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mgmaumoon</a> and Major General Zhang Baoqun, Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of the People's Republic of China, signed an agreement on China's provision of military assistance gratis to the Republic of Maldives, fostering… <a href="https://t.co/OeaAe2QZr9">pic.twitter.com/OeaAe2QZr9</a>
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However, the details of the defence cooperation agreement were not provided.

Meanwhile, China has also gifted 12 environmentally efficient ambulances to the Maldives, reported Edition.mv news portal on Monday.

It said that on Sunday (March 3), Chinese Ambassador to Maldives Wang Lixin presented the letter gifting the ambulances to the Maldives in a ceremony held at the Ministry of Health.

The visit of the Chinese military delegation also comes days after Male permitted Xiang Yang Hong 03, a hi-tech Chinese ship owned by a research institute that reports to Beijing's natural resources ministry, to make a port call for the "rotation of its personnel and replenishment."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-research-ship-arrives-in-maldives-sparks-security-concerns-among-indian-authorities-692663">Chinese 'research' ship arrives in Maldives triggering security concerns in Indian Ocean</a>

<h2>Research done 'exclusively'&nbsp;for peaceful purposes, claims China</h2>

China's foreign ministry has repeatedly claimed that the "research" done by the vessel was "exclusively" for peaceful purposes to benefit scientific understanding.

The ministry spokesperson also previously defended the port call by the ship to the Maldives saying, "China's scientific research activities in relevant waters are for peaceful purposes and aimed at contributing to humanity's scientific understanding of the ocean."&nbsp;

According to news agency Reuters report, an Indian security official previously said that the vessels were "dual-use", which means that they collect data which can be used for both civilian as well as military purposes.

Before Sri Lanka imposed a year-long moratorium on foreign research ships, effectively denying China a port of call, a Chinese research vessel docked in the island nation for the very last time in October 2023.

<h2>First team of technical personnel reaches Maldives</h2>

The visit by a Chinese military delegation to the island nation also comes after India confirmed that its first civilian team of technical experts had reached the Maldives and will replace the military personnel operating an advanced light helicopter in the country.

"The first team of technical personnel to operate the advanced light helicopter has reached the Maldives. It will replace the existing personnel who were operating this platform," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in New Delhi at his weekly media briefing on February 29.

After the meetings of the high-level core group, the Maldivian foreign ministry announced that India would replace all of its military personnel by May 10 in two phases.

President Muizzu, who is seen as a pro-China leader, has set March 10 as the deadline for the withdrawal of the first group of Indian military troops from his country.

(With inputs from agencies)

China on Monday (March 4) inked a defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives that will offer the island nation free military aid to promote "stronger" bilateral ties.

China on Monday (March 4) inked a defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives that will offer the island nation free military aid to promote "stronger" bilateral ties. The move comes weeks after President Mohamed Muizzu set a deadline for the departure of the first contingent of Indian military personnel from his country. The Defence Minister of the Maldives Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon met with Major General Zhang Baoqun, Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of China, and discussed strengthening defence cooperation between the two nations. Maumoon and Major General Baoqun "signed an agreement on China's provision of military assistance gratis to the Republic of Maldives, fostering stronger bilateral ties," the Maldivian defence ministry posted on its X handle. Minister of Defence @mgmaumoon and Major General Zhang Baoqun, Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of the People's Republic of China, signed an agreement on China's provision of military assistance gratis to the Republic of Maldives, fostering… pic.twitter.com/OeaAe2QZr9 — Ministry of Defence (@MoDmv) March 4, 2024 × However, the details of the defence cooperation agreement were not provided. Meanwhile, China has also gifted 12 environmentally efficient ambulances to the Maldives, reported Edition.mv news portal on Monday. It said that on Sunday (March 3), Chinese Ambassador to Maldives Wang Lixin presented the letter gifting the ambulances to the Maldives in a ceremony held at the Ministry of Health. The visit of the Chinese military delegation also comes days after Male permitted Xiang Yang Hong 03, a hi-tech Chinese ship owned by a research institute that reports to Beijing's natural resources ministry, to make a port call for the "rotation of its personnel and replenishment." Also read: Chinese 'research' ship arrives in Maldives triggering security concerns in Indian Ocean Research done 'exclusively' for peaceful purposes, claims China China's foreign ministry has repeatedly claimed that the "research" done by the vessel was "exclusively" for peaceful purposes to benefit scientific understanding. The ministry spokesperson also previously defended the port call by the ship to the Maldives saying, "China's scientific research activities in relevant waters are for peaceful purposes and aimed at contributing to humanity's scientific understanding of the ocean." According to news agency Reuters report, an Indian security official previously said that the vessels were "dual-use", which means that they collect data which can be used for both civilian as well as military purposes. Before Sri Lanka imposed a year-long moratorium on foreign research ships, effectively denying China a port of call, a Chinese research vessel docked in the island nation for the very last time in October 2023. First team of technical personnel reaches Maldives The visit by a Chinese military delegation to the island nation also comes after India confirmed that its first civilian team of technical experts had reached the Maldives and will replace the military personnel operating an advanced light helicopter in the country. "The first team of technical personnel to operate the advanced light helicopter has reached the Maldives. It will replace the existing personnel who were operating this platform," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in New Delhi at his weekly media briefing on February 29. After the meetings of the high-level core group, the Maldivian foreign ministry announced that India would replace all of its military personnel by May 10 in two phases. President Muizzu, who is seen as a pro-China leader, has set March 10 as the deadline for the withdrawal of the first group of Indian military troops from his country. (With inputs from agencies)

Maldives to get free military assistance from China, inks agreement to promote 'stronger' bilateral ties

A man was arrested by the Noida police on Sunday (March 3) after he allegedly fled with an SUV on the pretext of taking a test drive, officials told news agency PTI.

The police said that the incident took place in Noida's Sector 63 on Saturday, further adding that the car was later recovered.

"Accused Mohit Chawla had taken the Mahindra Thar for a test drive on Saturday but did not return after which the plaintiff lodged a complaint against him at the local police station," a police spokesperson said.

"An FIR was lodged under IPC section 379 (theft) and an investigation was launched, leading to the arrest of the accused from Block C of Sector 63 today (Sunday). The Thar was also recovered from his possession," the spokesperson added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-portion-of-roof-collapses-at-delhis-ambience-mall-debris-scatters-all-around-escalators-696573">Also read: Portion of roof collapses at Delhi’s Ambience Mall, debris scatters all around escalators</a>

The accused was previously booked in similar cases in Noida as well as Delhi, said the police.

Last year, a similar incident was reported in Mumbai where a man, who hired a car from an application-based rental service, allegedly fled with the vehicle.

The complainant, Chaitanya Raut, aged 28, who was a resident of Ghatkopar West claimed that he put his vehicle on the rental service in May 2023. His vehicle was rented several times between May 2022 and June 2023 and he received rent from the firm 24 hours after the customer returned the vehicle.

However, the suspect, who booked Raut's vehicle for five days, allegedly eloped with the vehicle.

(With inputs from agencies)

A man was arrested by the Noida police on Sunday (March 3) after he allegedly fled with an SUV on the pretext of taking a test drive, officials told news agency PTI.

A man was arrested by the Noida police on Sunday (March 3) after he allegedly fled with an SUV on the pretext of taking a test drive, officials told news agency PTI. The police said that the incident took place in Noida's Sector 63 on Saturday, further adding that the car was later recovered. "Accused Mohit Chawla had taken the Mahindra Thar for a test drive on Saturday but did not return after which the plaintiff lodged a complaint against him at the local police station," a police spokesperson said. "An FIR was lodged under IPC section 379 (theft) and an investigation was launched, leading to the arrest of the accused from Block C of Sector 63 today (Sunday). The Thar was also recovered from his possession," the spokesperson added. Also read: Portion of roof collapses at Delhi’s Ambience Mall, debris scatters all around escalators The accused was previously booked in similar cases in Noida as well as Delhi, said the police. Last year, a similar incident was reported in Mumbai where a man, who hired a car from an application-based rental service, allegedly fled with the vehicle. The complainant, Chaitanya Raut, aged 28, who was a resident of Ghatkopar West claimed that he put his vehicle on the rental service in May 2023. His vehicle was rented several times between May 2022 and June 2023 and he received rent from the firm 24 hours after the customer returned the vehicle. However, the suspect, who booked Raut's vehicle for five days, allegedly eloped with the vehicle. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Man allegedly flees with SUV on pretext of taking test drive

The government of Pakistan has been advised by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to impose an 18 per cent General Sales Tax (GST) on food, medicine, petroleum items, and stationery, reported ARY news.

The IMF experts in a report to Islamabad have suggested Pakistan's newly elected government put an end to sales tax relaxation.

Following its December 2023 visit to Pakistan, the IMF team sent out a report in February 2024 that included several suggestions ahead of the FY2024–2025 budget.&nbsp;

The IMF has suggested placing a number of goods, such as unprocessed food, stationery, medicine, POL products, and others, under the standard 18 per cent GST rate.

It assessed that rationalising GST rates could generate 1.3 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) revenue which equals Rs 1,300 billion in the national exchequer.

The IMF has overall demanded the removal of all the distortionary tax policy changes related to compliance, which includes the abolition of minimum taxes and additional taxes, as well as the abolition of the Ninth and Tenth Schedules.

In February, there were reports that Pakistan would seek a loan package from the International Monetary Fund in addition to $1.5 billion in climate finance.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/meet-pakistans-pm-shehbaz-sharif-militarys-new-favourite-to-run-crisis-ridden-nation-696331">Meet Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif, military's new favourite to run crisis-ridden nation</a>

<h2>Shehbaz Sharif aims to join G20 after being 'elected' Pakistan PM</h2>

Shehbaz Sharif, leader and brother of the three-time ex-PM Nawaz Sharif, won enough votes in the country’s National Assembly to retake the premiership.&nbsp;

He delivered the victory speech on Sunday (Mar 3) and said that he would conduct what he called a “deep surgery” and bring changes to the system to get the cash-strapped country out of the economic crisis and secure membership in the Group of 20 (G20) countries by 2030.

Shehbaz spoke about the alarming debt crisis that Pakistan is facing and noted how even the expenditures of the National Assembly were being paid by borrowed money.&nbsp;

“But if we decide to do a deep surgery and bring changes in the system, basic reform…I have no doubt…we can either get rid of a life of debt or we move forward with heads down in shame,” said the PM-designate.&nbsp;

Pakistan has long struggled with a heavy debt load. Recently,&nbsp;it secured another bailout by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) which was Pakistan’s 23rd since it gained independence in 1947.&nbsp;

The inflation rate in the country reached 29.7 per cent in December, and in 2023, the Pakistani rupee was Asia’s worst-performing currency.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The government of Pakistan has been advised by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to impose an 18 per cent General Sales Tax (GST) on food, medicine, petroleum items, and stationery, reported ARY news.

The government of Pakistan has been advised by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to impose an 18 per cent General Sales Tax (GST) on food, medicine, petroleum items, and stationery, reported ARY news. The IMF experts in a report to Islamabad have suggested Pakistan's newly elected government put an end to sales tax relaxation. Following its December 2023 visit to Pakistan, the IMF team sent out a report in February 2024 that included several suggestions ahead of the FY2024–2025 budget. The IMF has suggested placing a number of goods, such as unprocessed food, stationery, medicine, POL products, and others, under the standard 18 per cent GST rate. It assessed that rationalising GST rates could generate 1.3 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) revenue which equals Rs 1,300 billion in the national exchequer. The IMF has overall demanded the removal of all the distortionary tax policy changes related to compliance, which includes the abolition of minimum taxes and additional taxes, as well as the abolition of the Ninth and Tenth Schedules. In February, there were reports that Pakistan would seek a loan package from the International Monetary Fund in addition to $1.5 billion in climate finance. Also read: Meet Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif, military's new favourite to run crisis-ridden nation Shehbaz Sharif aims to join G20 after being 'elected' Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif, leader and brother of the three-time ex-PM Nawaz Sharif, won enough votes in the country’s National Assembly to retake the premiership. He delivered the victory speech on Sunday (Mar 3) and said that he would conduct what he called a “deep surgery” and bring changes to the system to get the cash-strapped country out of the economic crisis and secure membership in the Group of 20 (G20) countries by 2030. Shehbaz spoke about the alarming debt crisis that Pakistan is facing and noted how even the expenditures of the National Assembly were being paid by borrowed money. “But if we decide to do a deep surgery and bring changes in the system, basic reform…I have no doubt…we can either get rid of a life of debt or we move forward with heads down in shame,” said the PM-designate. Pakistan has long struggled with a heavy debt load. Recently, it secured another bailout by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) which was Pakistan’s 23rd since it gained independence in 1947. The inflation rate in the country reached 29.7 per cent in December, and in 2023, the Pakistani rupee was Asia’s worst-performing currency. (With inputs from agencies)

IMF suggests Pakistan impose 18 per cent GST on food, medicines, petroleum: Report

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Friday (Mar 1) took a dig at Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin by extending birthday wishes to him in Mandarin after controversy erupted over an advertisement related to the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) new launch complex, which prominently featured a Chinese flag.

Tamil Nadu BJP took to its official social media handle and wrote, "On behalf of Tamil Nadu BJP, here's wishing our Honourable CM Thiru MK Stalin a happy birthday in his favourite language! May he live a long and healthy life!"&nbsp;

This comes after a row over a newspaper ad, commissioned by Tamil Nadu's Animal Husbandry Minister Anitha Radhakrishnan, featured a rocket&nbsp;sporting a Chinese flag on top.

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On behalf of <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4TamilNadu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4Tamilnadu</a>, here’s wishing our Honourable CM Thiru <a href="https://twitter.com/mkstalin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mkstalin</a> avargal a happy birthday in his favourite language! May he live a long &amp; healthy life! <a href="https://t.co/2ZmPwzekF8">pic.twitter.com/2ZmPwzekF8</a>
— BJP Tamilnadu (@BJP4TamilNadu) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4TamilNadu/status/1763434298403872881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The advertisement appeared in all the leading dailies on Wednesday before Prime Minister Narendra Modi was scheduled to lay the foundation stone of the spaceport.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bjp-holds-core-party-meeting-first-list-for-lok-sabha-polls-to-be-out-soon-695425">Lok Sabha elections 2024: India's ruling party BJP to reveal first list of candidates soon</a>

<h2>'Small mistake,' says Tamil Nadu minister</h2>

DMK leader Radhakrishnan on Thursday (Feb 29) termed the advertisement a gaffe by the designer.

He stressed that it was a mistake and that his party had no other intentions.

"A small mistake happened in the advertisement. We have no other intention. We have only love for India in our hearts," Radhakrishnan said, adding that it is DMK's stand that India should stay united.

He further stated that it was late DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi who voiced the demand for a new launch complex of ISRO at Kulasekarapattinam and CM Stalin and Thoothukudi Lok Sabha MP Kanimozhi had urged the Centre to set up the launch complex in the state.

However, BJP leader and Union Minister L Murugan demanded that Radhakrishnan apologise to the people for publishing that advertisement.

On the DMK's stand that the 'China' reference was a mistake, Murugan said, "It is our duty to put the Indian flag (in advertisement) and they (DMK) must apologise to the people. Only India's achievements have to be showcased. The country's achievements in space technology and the new ISRO complex in Tamil Nadu are the nation's pride."

<h2>PM Modi reacts</h2>

PM Modi laid the foundation stone for a new launch complex of ISRO at Kulasekarapattinam on Wednesday (Feb 28).

The Indian prime minister, while addressing a rally on the concluding day of his two-day visit to Tamil Nadu, denounced the DMK for being "oblivious" to the nation's achievements in the field of space.

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DMK’s advertisement today is hilarious. They have insulted Indian science and the Indian space sector, for which they must apologise. <a href="https://t.co/RwghHNji7q">pic.twitter.com/RwghHNji7q</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1762767923586715785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

While addressing a BJP rally, PM Modi said, "Now they have crossed the limit. They have pasted the sticker of China to take credit for ISRO launchpad in Tamil Nadu. This is an insult to our space scientists, space sector, your tax money and you (the country)."

The PM had also taken to X to highlight the gaffe:&nbsp;"DMK's advertisement today is hilarious. They have insulted Indian science and the Indian space sector, for which they must apologise."

(With inputs from agencies)

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Friday (Mar 1) took a dig at Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin by extending birthday wishes to him in Mandarin after controversy erupted over an advertisement related to the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) new launch complex, which prominently featured a Chinese flag.

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Friday (Mar 1) took a dig at Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin by extending birthday wishes to him in Mandarin after controversy erupted over an advertisement related to the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) new launch complex, which prominently featured a Chinese flag. Tamil Nadu BJP took to its official social media handle and wrote, "On behalf of Tamil Nadu BJP, here's wishing our Honourable CM Thiru MK Stalin a happy birthday in his favourite language! May he live a long and healthy life!" This comes after a row over a newspaper ad, commissioned by Tamil Nadu's Animal Husbandry Minister Anitha Radhakrishnan, featured a rocket sporting a Chinese flag on top. On behalf of @BJP4Tamilnadu, here’s wishing our Honourable CM Thiru @mkstalin avargal a happy birthday in his favourite language! May he live a long & healthy life! pic.twitter.com/2ZmPwzekF8 — BJP Tamilnadu (@BJP4TamilNadu) March 1, 2024 × The advertisement appeared in all the leading dailies on Wednesday before Prime Minister Narendra Modi was scheduled to lay the foundation stone of the spaceport. Also read: Lok Sabha elections 2024: India's ruling party BJP to reveal first list of candidates soon 'Small mistake,' says Tamil Nadu minister DMK leader Radhakrishnan on Thursday (Feb 29) termed the advertisement a gaffe by the designer. He stressed that it was a mistake and that his party had no other intentions. "A small mistake happened in the advertisement. We have no other intention. We have only love for India in our hearts," Radhakrishnan said, adding that it is DMK's stand that India should stay united. He further stated that it was late DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi who voiced the demand for a new launch complex of ISRO at Kulasekarapattinam and CM Stalin and Thoothukudi Lok Sabha MP Kanimozhi had urged the Centre to set up the launch complex in the state. However, BJP leader and Union Minister L Murugan demanded that Radhakrishnan apologise to the people for publishing that advertisement. On the DMK's stand that the 'China' reference was a mistake, Murugan said, "It is our duty to put the Indian flag (in advertisement) and they (DMK) must apologise to the people. Only India's achievements have to be showcased. The country's achievements in space technology and the new ISRO complex in Tamil Nadu are the nation's pride." PM Modi reacts PM Modi laid the foundation stone for a new launch complex of ISRO at Kulasekarapattinam on Wednesday (Feb 28). The Indian prime minister, while addressing a rally on the concluding day of his two-day visit to Tamil Nadu, denounced the DMK for being "oblivious" to the nation's achievements in the field of space. DMK’s advertisement today is hilarious. They have insulted Indian science and the Indian space sector, for which they must apologise. pic.twitter.com/RwghHNji7q — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 28, 2024 × While addressing a BJP rally, PM Modi said, "Now they have crossed the limit. They have pasted the sticker of China to take credit for ISRO launchpad in Tamil Nadu. This is an insult to our space scientists, space sector, your tax money and you (the country)." The PM had also taken to X to highlight the gaffe: "DMK's advertisement today is hilarious. They have insulted Indian science and the Indian space sector, for which they must apologise." (With inputs from agencies)

BJP takes a dig at MK Stalin over 'China flag' advertisement, sends him birthday wishes in Mandarin

A portion of the concrete roof of southwest Delhi's Ambience Mall collapsed in the wee hours of Monday (March 4). Fortunately, there were no casualties reported in the incident.

The police, as per news agency PTI reports, said that the roof of the building partially collapsed in the mall’s central hall at around 12.45 am and the debris scattered all around the railings and the escalators.

The videos of the incident doing rounds on social media show the area engulfed in cloud of dust after the incident took place.

The police said that an inquiry was launched into the incident.

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😱😱😱😱 roof of ambience mall in Vasant Kunj collapsed during maintenance work 😱😱😱😱 new fear unlocked. <a href="https://t.co/oWx00zLs8C">pic.twitter.com/oWx00zLs8C</a>
— Nirwa Mehta (@nirwamehta) <a href="https://twitter.com/nirwamehta/status/1764643661088759843?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

This comes a day after two men lost their lives after being allegedly hit by an iron grille inside a shopping mall in Noida Extension.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/video-shows-exact-moment-when-massive-boulder-crush-two-trucks-696449">Video shows exact moment when massive boulders crushed two trucks</a>

The grille fell on the duo from the fifth floor while they were walking towards an escalator on the ground floor of Galaxy Blue Sapphire Mall.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Uttar Pradesh: Two men died after a ceiling grill fell on them at Galaxy Blue Sapphire Mall in Greater Noida. 
 
Police present on the spot. <a href="https://t.co/NgPOmvsIwT">https://t.co/NgPOmvsIwT</a> <a href="https://t.co/Hw50Lq5Q9G">pic.twitter.com/Hw50Lq5Q9G</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1764237769189015571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Both victims, aged 35, died on the spot. They were residents of the Vijay Nagar area in adjoining Ghaziabad district, Additional DCP (Central Noida) Hridesh Katheriya said.

“The local Bisrakh police station was informed by Yatharth Hospital that two people died in Blue Sapphire Mall after an iron grille fell on them from the fifth floor. A police team immediately reached the spot,” he said.

The deceased have been identified as Harendra Bhati and Shakeel, said the officer.

Katheriya further said that the families of the victims were contacted and that&nbsp;legal action would be initiated in the case once a complaint was received from them.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A portion of the concrete roof of southwest Delhi's Ambience Mall collapsed in the wee hours of Monday (March 4). Fortunately, there were no casualties reported in the incident.

A portion of the concrete roof of southwest Delhi's Ambience Mall collapsed in the wee hours of Monday (March 4). Fortunately, there were no casualties reported in the incident. The police, as per news agency PTI reports, said that the roof of the building partially collapsed in the mall’s central hall at around 12.45 am and the debris scattered all around the railings and the escalators. The videos of the incident doing rounds on social media show the area engulfed in cloud of dust after the incident took place. The police said that an inquiry was launched into the incident. 😱😱😱😱 roof of ambience mall in Vasant Kunj collapsed during maintenance work 😱😱😱😱 new fear unlocked. pic.twitter.com/oWx00zLs8C — Nirwa Mehta (@nirwamehta) March 4, 2024 × This comes a day after two men lost their lives after being allegedly hit by an iron grille inside a shopping mall in Noida Extension. Also read: Video shows exact moment when massive boulders crushed two trucks The grille fell on the duo from the fifth floor while they were walking towards an escalator on the ground floor of Galaxy Blue Sapphire Mall. #WATCH | Uttar Pradesh: Two men died after a ceiling grill fell on them at Galaxy Blue Sapphire Mall in Greater Noida. Police present on the spot. https://t.co/NgPOmvsIwT pic.twitter.com/Hw50Lq5Q9G — ANI (@ANI) March 3, 2024 × Both victims, aged 35, died on the spot. They were residents of the Vijay Nagar area in adjoining Ghaziabad district, Additional DCP (Central Noida) Hridesh Katheriya said. “The local Bisrakh police station was informed by Yatharth Hospital that two people died in Blue Sapphire Mall after an iron grille fell on them from the fifth floor. A police team immediately reached the spot,” he said. The deceased have been identified as Harendra Bhati and Shakeel, said the officer. Katheriya further said that the families of the victims were contacted and that legal action would be initiated in the case once a complaint was received from them. (With inputs from agencies)

Video: Portion of roof collapses at Delhi’s Ambience Mall, debris scatters all around escalators

The European Union on Monday (March 4) hit iPhone maker Apple with an antitrust fine of over 1.8 billion euros ($1.95 billion) for preventing music streaming services like Spotify from informing users about payment options outside its App Store.

The European Commission said it "found that Apple applied restrictions on app developers preventing them from informing iOS users about alternative and cheaper music subscription services available outside of the app".

"This is illegal under EU antitrust rules," the EU's powerful antitrust regulator said.

"Apple's conduct, which lasted for almost ten years, may have led many iOS users to pay significantly higher prices for music streaming subscriptions because of the high commission fee imposed by Apple on developers and passed on to consumers," it further added.

Swedish music streaming service Spotify lodged a complaint in the year 2019 which triggered a broad commission probe into the firm in 2021. However, Brussels narrowed its investigation last year to focus more on Apple's actions of barring applications from providing users with information about rival music subscription options.

"For a decade, Apple abused its dominant position in the market for the distribution of music streaming apps through the App Store," Commission Vice President Margrethe Vestager said in a statement.

"We have ordered Apple to remove the necessary provisions and to refrain from similar practices in the future," Vestager told reporters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-sorry-over-unreliable-platform-gemini-after-controversial-remarks-on-pm-modi-696490">Google sorry over 'unreliable' platform Gemini after remarks on PM Modi</a>

<h2>Apple says will appeal penalty</h2>

Apple released a statement slamming the EU's decision and said that it would appeal the penalty.

"The decision was reached despite the Commission's failure to uncover any credible evidence of consumer harm, and ignores the realities of a market that is thriving, competitive, and growing fast," Apple said in a statement.

"While we respect the European Commission, the facts simply don't support this decision. And as a result, Apple will appeal," the company added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Union on Monday (March 4) hit iPhone maker Apple with an antitrust fine of over 1.8 billion euros ($1.95 billion) for preventing music streaming services like Spotify from informing users about payment options outside its App Store.

The European Union on Monday (March 4) hit iPhone maker Apple with an antitrust fine of over 1.8 billion euros ($1.95 billion) for preventing music streaming services like Spotify from informing users about payment options outside its App Store. The European Commission said it "found that Apple applied restrictions on app developers preventing them from informing iOS users about alternative and cheaper music subscription services available outside of the app". "This is illegal under EU antitrust rules," the EU's powerful antitrust regulator said. "Apple's conduct, which lasted for almost ten years, may have led many iOS users to pay significantly higher prices for music streaming subscriptions because of the high commission fee imposed by Apple on developers and passed on to consumers," it further added. Swedish music streaming service Spotify lodged a complaint in the year 2019 which triggered a broad commission probe into the firm in 2021. However, Brussels narrowed its investigation last year to focus more on Apple's actions of barring applications from providing users with information about rival music subscription options. "For a decade, Apple abused its dominant position in the market for the distribution of music streaming apps through the App Store," Commission Vice President Margrethe Vestager said in a statement. "We have ordered Apple to remove the necessary provisions and to refrain from similar practices in the future," Vestager told reporters. Also read: Google sorry over 'unreliable' platform Gemini after remarks on PM Modi Apple says will appeal penalty Apple released a statement slamming the EU's decision and said that it would appeal the penalty. "The decision was reached despite the Commission's failure to uncover any credible evidence of consumer harm, and ignores the realities of a market that is thriving, competitive, and growing fast," Apple said in a statement. "While we respect the European Commission, the facts simply don't support this decision. And as a result, Apple will appeal," the company added. (With inputs from agencies)

EU hits Apple with 1.8 billion euro antitrust fine, firm says will appeal penalty

Hate preachers with radical Islamist views will now be barred from entering the United Kingdom under new plans being drafted by the government amidst a "shocking increase" in extremist activity.&nbsp;

The British officials will identify the most dangerous extremists from countries such as Pakistan, Afghanistan and Indonesia and add them to visa warning lists. Under the new plans, the ones on the list will automatically be denied entry into the UK, according to a report by The Daily Telegraph.

Additionally, ministers also believe they may strengthen efforts to prevent those&nbsp;considered&nbsp;"non-conducive to the public good" from entering the UK by utilising already-existing national security capabilities.

This can entail putting people on the blacklist if they have a history of inciting violence or intimidation against democratic institutions or preaching racism.

The move comes after British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak delivered a dynamic speech from 10 Downing Street in London warning that extremists posed a threat to the UK's democratic and multi-faith values.

"We will also act to prevent people entering this country whose aim is to undermine its values," Sunak said in his speech on Friday.

"The Home Secretary has instructed that if those here on visas choose to spew hate on protests or seek to intimidate people we will remove their right to be here," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sunak-warns-of-threats-to-british-democracy-takes-swipe-at-pro-palestinian-mp-george-galloway-695819">Also read: Sunak warns of 'threats' to British democracy, takes swipe at pro-Palestinian MP George Galloway</a>

He then also appealed to the demonstrators staging protests against the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip to be sure that their actions were not commandeered by extremists.

"The time has now come for us all to stand together to combat the forces of division and beat this poison. We must face down the extremists who would tear us apart," he said, warning that "Islamist extremists and the far right feed off and embolden each other".

An official review by Lord Walney, the government's independent adviser on political violence and disruption, implores ministers to address the increasing threats posed by Left-wing fringe organisations that have sided with Islamist extremists during pro-Palestine demonstrations held across the United Kingdom, as per The Daily Telegraph&nbsp;report.

"One of the conclusions of my review is to look at and understand the threat from anti-democratic far-Left groups, alongside that posed by Islamists and the far right... You are seeing an unholy alliance between far-Left groups and some of the Islamist extremism that has been seen on the marches," he told the newspaper.

Walney's report is with the UK Home Office and will be published later this month.

"Extremism has no place in our society and we will not tolerate tactics that set out to intimidate, threaten or cause disruption to the law-abiding majority," a Home Office spokesperson said.

"In recent months, we have also witnessed a small number of protestors display violent and hateful behaviour, and the police have our full support in tackling extremism and hate crime. We are considering the report's recommendations extremely carefully and will respond in due course," the spokesperson said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hate preachers with radical Islamist views will now be barred from entering the United Kingdom under new plans being drafted by the government amidst a "shocking increase" in extremist activity.

Hate preachers with radical Islamist views will now be barred from entering the United Kingdom under new plans being drafted by the government amidst a "shocking increase" in extremist activity. The British officials will identify the most dangerous extremists from countries such as Pakistan, Afghanistan and Indonesia and add them to visa warning lists. Under the new plans, the ones on the list will automatically be denied entry into the UK, according to a report by The Daily Telegraph. Additionally, ministers also believe they may strengthen efforts to prevent those considered "non-conducive to the public good" from entering the UK by utilising already-existing national security capabilities. This can entail putting people on the blacklist if they have a history of inciting violence or intimidation against democratic institutions or preaching racism. The move comes after British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak delivered a dynamic speech from 10 Downing Street in London warning that extremists posed a threat to the UK's democratic and multi-faith values. "We will also act to prevent people entering this country whose aim is to undermine its values," Sunak said in his speech on Friday. "The Home Secretary has instructed that if those here on visas choose to spew hate on protests or seek to intimidate people we will remove their right to be here," he said. Also read: Sunak warns of 'threats' to British democracy, takes swipe at pro-Palestinian MP George Galloway He then also appealed to the demonstrators staging protests against the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip to be sure that their actions were not commandeered by extremists. "The time has now come for us all to stand together to combat the forces of division and beat this poison. We must face down the extremists who would tear us apart," he said, warning that "Islamist extremists and the far right feed off and embolden each other". An official review by Lord Walney, the government's independent adviser on political violence and disruption, implores ministers to address the increasing threats posed by Left-wing fringe organisations that have sided with Islamist extremists during pro-Palestine demonstrations held across the United Kingdom, as per The Daily Telegraph report. "One of the conclusions of my review is to look at and understand the threat from anti-democratic far-Left groups, alongside that posed by Islamists and the far right... You are seeing an unholy alliance between far-Left groups and some of the Islamist extremism that has been seen on the marches," he told the newspaper. Walney's report is with the UK Home Office and will be published later this month. "Extremism has no place in our society and we will not tolerate tactics that set out to intimidate, threaten or cause disruption to the law-abiding majority," a Home Office spokesperson said. "In recent months, we have also witnessed a small number of protestors display violent and hateful behaviour, and the police have our full support in tackling extremism and hate crime. We are considering the report's recommendations extremely carefully and will respond in due course," the spokesperson said. (With inputs from agencies)

UK to bar entry of hate preachers amid 'shocking increase' in extremist activity: Report

Ukraine claimed responsibility for the railway bridge blast in southwest Russia stating that it was being used by Moscow to transport "military cargo".&nbsp;

Kyiv on Monday (March 4) blew up the bridge in Russia's southwestern Samara region which is latest in the string of blasts targeting Russia's rail network which Ukraine says is used by Moscow to move troops and equipment for its invasion.

"A railway bridge over the Chapaevka River in Russia's Samara region was blown up. On 4 March 2024, at around 6:00 am (0200 GMT), the bridge was damaged by blowing up its support structures," Ukraine's military intelligence said.

Russia was transporting ammunition from a plant in the town of Chapayevsk via the railway line, it said.

"Given the nature of the damage to the railway bridge, its use will not be possible for a long time," it added.

Earlier, Russia's railway operator announced that "an intervention by non-authorised persons" had caused the explosion, however, it said that no one was injured.

"Rail traffic is suspended for the moment at this section," it said.

"An explosive device damaged a pillar on a rail bridge" over the Chapaevka river, Russia's official TASS agency quoted a source in the rescue services as saying.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-demands-explanation-from-germany-after-call-recording-over-ukraine-gets-leaked-696199">Ukraine war: Germany alleges Putin seeking to 'destabilise' country through wiretap</a>

<h2>Russian drone strike kills 10 in Ukrainian city of Odesa</h2>

Russian drone strike on an apartment block in the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa killed at least 10 people.&nbsp;

The deceased victims also included a four-month-old baby and a two-year-old, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Sunday was declared a day of mourning in Odesa. “Today, Odesa and the region are mourning the victims of the Russian attack,” said the Ukrainian regional official. He added, “It is a great pain not only for the Odesa region, but for the whole of Ukraine.”

<h2>Zelensky calls for Western air defence systems</h2>

Zelensky, on Saturday, urged Western countries to rapidly deliver more air-defence systems following a barrage of Russian strikes in recent days.&nbsp;

Overnight attacks, between Friday and Saturday, on frontline regions of Kharkiv in the northeast and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south killed another three people, reported AFP citing Ukrainian officials.&nbsp;

“We need more air defences from our partners. We need to strengthen the Ukrainian air shield to add more protection for our people from Russian terror,” said the Ukrainian president, in a post on social media.&nbsp;

He added, “More air-defence systems and more missiles for air-defence systems save lives.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine claimed responsibility for the railway bridge blast in southwest Russia stating that it was being used by Moscow to transport "military cargo". Kyiv on Monday (March 4) blew up the bridge in Russia's southwestern Samara region which is latest in the string of blasts targeting Russia's rail network which Ukraine says is used by Moscow to move troops and equipment for its invasion.

Ukraine claimed responsibility for the railway bridge blast in southwest Russia stating that it was being used by Moscow to transport "military cargo". Kyiv on Monday (March 4) blew up the bridge in Russia's southwestern Samara region which is latest in the string of blasts targeting Russia's rail network which Ukraine says is used by Moscow to move troops and equipment for its invasion. "A railway bridge over the Chapaevka River in Russia's Samara region was blown up. On 4 March 2024, at around 6:00 am (0200 GMT), the bridge was damaged by blowing up its support structures," Ukraine's military intelligence said. Russia was transporting ammunition from a plant in the town of Chapayevsk via the railway line, it said. "Given the nature of the damage to the railway bridge, its use will not be possible for a long time," it added. Earlier, Russia's railway operator announced that "an intervention by non-authorised persons" had caused the explosion, however, it said that no one was injured. "Rail traffic is suspended for the moment at this section," it said. "An explosive device damaged a pillar on a rail bridge" over the Chapaevka river, Russia's official TASS agency quoted a source in the rescue services as saying. Also read: Ukraine war: Germany alleges Putin seeking to 'destabilise' country through wiretap Russian drone strike kills 10 in Ukrainian city of Odesa Russian drone strike on an apartment block in the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa killed at least 10 people. The deceased victims also included a four-month-old baby and a two-year-old, said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Sunday was declared a day of mourning in Odesa. “Today, Odesa and the region are mourning the victims of the Russian attack,” said the Ukrainian regional official. He added, “It is a great pain not only for the Odesa region, but for the whole of Ukraine.” Zelensky calls for Western air defence systems Zelensky, on Saturday, urged Western countries to rapidly deliver more air-defence systems following a barrage of Russian strikes in recent days. Overnight attacks, between Friday and Saturday, on frontline regions of Kharkiv in the northeast and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south killed another three people, reported AFP citing Ukrainian officials. “We need more air defences from our partners. We need to strengthen the Ukrainian air shield to add more protection for our people from Russian terror,” said the Ukrainian president, in a post on social media. He added, “More air-defence systems and more missiles for air-defence systems save lives.” (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Ukraine claims responsibility for railway bridge blast in southwest Russia

Around 170 people were "executed" in attacks on three villages in northern Burkina Faso a week ago, a regional prosecutor said on Sunday as jihadist violence flares in the junta-ruled country.

On that same day, February 25, separate attacks on a mosque in eastern Burkina and a Catholic church in the north left dozens more dead.

Aly Benjamin Coulibaly said he had received reports of the attacks on the villages of Komsilga, Nodin and Soroe in Yatenga province on February 25, with a provisional toll of "around 170 people executed".

The attacks left others wounded and caused material damage, the prosecutor for the northern town of Ouahigouya added in a statement, without apportioning blame to any group.

He said his office ordered an investigation and appealed to the public for information.

Survivors of the attacks told AFP that dozens of women and young children were among the victims.

Local security sources said the attacks were separate from deadly incidents that happened on the same day at a mosque in the rural community of Natiaboani and a church in the village of Essakane.

Authorities have yet to release an official death toll for those attacks but a senior church official said at the time that at least 15 civilians were killed in that attack.

Burkina Faso has been grappling with a jihadist insurgency waged by rebels affiliated with Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group that spilled over from neighbouring Mali in 2015.

The violence has killed almost 20,000 people and displaced more than two million in Burkina Faso, one of the world's poorest countries situated in the Sahel, a region wracked by instability.

Anger at the state's inability to end the insecurity played a major role in two military coups in 2022. Current strongman Ibrahim Traore has made the fight against rebel groups a priority.

<h2>'Co-ordinated' attacks</h2>

There were a number of attacks on February 25, notably against a military detachment in Tankoualou in the east, a rapid response battalion in Kongoussi in the north and soldiers in the northern region of Ouahigouya.

In response, the army and members of the Volunteers for the Defence of the Fatherland (VDP), a civilian force that supports the military, launched operations that were able "to neutralise several hundred terrorists", according to security sources.

At the beginning of the week, Security Minister Mahamadou Sana described the wave of attacks as "co-ordinated".

"This change in the enemy's tactical approach is because terrorist bases have been destroyed as well as training camps and actions were carried out to dry up the enemy's source of financing, as well as its supply corridors," said Sana.

Mosques and imams have in the past been the target of attacks blamed on jihadists.

Churches in Burkina have also at times been targeted and Christians have been kidnapped.

The ACLED analysis group says that 439 people were killed in such violence in January alone.

Around 170 people were "executed" in attacks on three villages in northern Burkina Faso a week ago, a regional prosecutor said on Sunday as jihadist violence flares in the junta-ruled country.

Around 170 people were "executed" in attacks on three villages in northern Burkina Faso a week ago, a regional prosecutor said on Sunday as jihadist violence flares in the junta-ruled country. On that same day, February 25, separate attacks on a mosque in eastern Burkina and a Catholic church in the north left dozens more dead. Aly Benjamin Coulibaly said he had received reports of the attacks on the villages of Komsilga, Nodin and Soroe in Yatenga province on February 25, with a provisional toll of "around 170 people executed". The attacks left others wounded and caused material damage, the prosecutor for the northern town of Ouahigouya added in a statement, without apportioning blame to any group. He said his office ordered an investigation and appealed to the public for information. Survivors of the attacks told AFP that dozens of women and young children were among the victims. Local security sources said the attacks were separate from deadly incidents that happened on the same day at a mosque in the rural community of Natiaboani and a church in the village of Essakane. Authorities have yet to release an official death toll for those attacks but a senior church official said at the time that at least 15 civilians were killed in that attack. Burkina Faso has been grappling with a jihadist insurgency waged by rebels affiliated with Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group that spilled over from neighbouring Mali in 2015. The violence has killed almost 20,000 people and displaced more than two million in Burkina Faso, one of the world's poorest countries situated in the Sahel, a region wracked by instability. Anger at the state's inability to end the insecurity played a major role in two military coups in 2022. Current strongman Ibrahim Traore has made the fight against rebel groups a priority. 'Co-ordinated' attacks There were a number of attacks on February 25, notably against a military detachment in Tankoualou in the east, a rapid response battalion in Kongoussi in the north and soldiers in the northern region of Ouahigouya. In response, the army and members of the Volunteers for the Defence of the Fatherland (VDP), a civilian force that supports the military, launched operations that were able "to neutralise several hundred terrorists", according to security sources. At the beginning of the week, Security Minister Mahamadou Sana described the wave of attacks as "co-ordinated". "This change in the enemy's tactical approach is because terrorist bases have been destroyed as well as training camps and actions were carried out to dry up the enemy's source of financing, as well as its supply corridors," said Sana. Mosques and imams have in the past been the target of attacks blamed on jihadists. Churches in Burkina have also at times been targeted and Christians have been kidnapped. The ACLED analysis group says that 439 people were killed in such violence in January alone.

'170 people executed' in attacks on Burkina villages: Prosecutor

A Hamas delegation on Sunday (Mar 3) arrived in Cairo as talks to hammer out a Gaza truce gain&nbsp;momentum. Mediators from Qatar and the US also arrived in Egypt’s capital on Sunday amid indications that Israel has agreed to the six-week truce deal currently in the works. In other news, a&nbsp;German minister on Sunday (Mar 3) claimed Russian President Vladimir Putin was seeking to destabilise the country using the wiretap leak. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said, "It is about using this recording to destabilise and unsettle us," adding that he "hoped that Putin will not succeed".

Click on the headlines to read more.

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A Hamas delegation on Sunday (Mar 3) arrived in Cairo as talks to hammer out a Gaza truce gain&nbsp;momentum. According to local media reports, mediators from Qatar and the US also arrived in Egypt’s capital on Sunday amid indications that Israel has agreed to the six-week truce deal currently in the works. However, the Jewish nation has reportedly boycotted the talks over the unknown fate of hostages still held by the Palestinian militant group.

&nbsp;

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In what comes as a massive embarrassment for Berlin, alleged call recordings of the German defence forces over the Ukraine war were posted on Russian social media by a state-backed journalist. Margarita Simonyan, the head of the Russia Today (RT) channel, posted the audio clip on her telegram channel, allegedly featuring German officers “discussing how to strike the Crimea bridge”, which links Russia to the Ukrainian peninsula.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pm-modi-chairs-council-of-ministers-meeting-for-viksit-bharat-2047-plan-discuss-100-day-agenda-696207">PM Modi chairs brainstorming session to discuss ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ plan</a>

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During the last formal meeting of the Council of Ministers ahead of the upcoming general elections, on Sunday (Mar 3) the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a brainstorming session on the document ‘Viksit Bharat (Developed India) 2047,’ reported news agencies citing sources from the Government of India.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-designate-shehbaz-sharif-announces-aim-to-join-g20-in-2030-in-first-speech-top-points-696200">Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif announces aim to join G20, rakes up Kashmir: Top points</a>

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Weeks after the contentious February 8 elections and the political crisis that followed, former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) leader and brother of the three-time ex-PM Nawaz Sharif won enough votes in the country’s National Assembly to retake the premiership.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-pushes-for-new-search-10-years-after-disappearance-of-flight-mh370-696196">Malaysia may launch new search 10 years after disappearance of flight MH370</a>

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A Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 mysteriously disappeared from radar screens on March 8, 2014, becoming one of Malaysia's deadliest aviation incidents.&nbsp;Ten years after the tragic incident, relatives of passengers on Sunday (Mar 3) pushed for a new search as they spoke of enduring grief and the struggle to find closure.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/im-definitely-giving-up-pat-cummins-shares-potential-timeline-of-quitting-australia-captaincy-696179">'I'm definitely giving up...,' Skipper Cummins on quitting Australia captaincy</a>

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Australia skipper Pat Cummins says that he'll quit the captaincy the day ace spinner Nathan Lyon retires. Cummins, however, backs Lyon to continue for four more years, given the spinner takes care of his body. The Aussie skipper made the remarks following Australia's 172-run win over New Zealand in the first Test on Sunday, March 3. Notably, Lyon took a six-fer in second innings to help Australia win - his 24th in the Tests.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-rises-to-10-in-russian-drone-attack-on-ukraines-odesa-zelensky-calls-for-western-air-defence-696164">Death toll rises to 10 in Russian drone attack on Ukraine's Odesa; Zelensky calls for Western air defence</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/03/415881-wion-images-2024-03-03t164318506.png?imwidth=400" />

The death toll after a Russian drone strike on an apartment block in the southern Ukrainian city of Odesa rose to 10, on Sunday (Mar 3) after rescuers found two more bodies of a woman and her eight-month-old baby. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian president called on Western countries to ramp up the delivery of air defence systems after a barrage of Russian strikes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-former-health-minister-harsh-vardhan-quits-politics-says-my-clinic-awaits-my-return-696193">Lok Sabha polls 2024: Former Health Minister Harsh Vardhan quits politics, says ‘my clinic awaits my return’</a>

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India's former Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Sunday (March 3) announced his decision to quit politics stating that his clinic awaits his return.&nbsp;The development comes after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday (March 2) announced its first list of 195 candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections that are set to take place in the month of May.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-iran-backed-houthi-rebel-group-says-will-continue-sinking-british-ships-after-rubymar-attack-696225">Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebel group says will continue sinking British ships after Rubymar attack</a>

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Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebel group on Sunday (March 3) said that it will continue to strike British ships in the Gulf of Aden after UK-owned vessel Rubymar sunk in the Red Sea.&nbsp;"Yemen will continue to sink more British ships, and any repercussions or other damages will be added to Britain's bill," Hussein al-Ezzi, deputy foreign minister in the Houthi-led government, said in a post on X.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pm-modi-set-to-attend-bharat-shakti-war-game-in-pokhran-exhibiting-indigenous-capabilities-696186">India: PM Modi set to attend ‘Bharat Shakti’ war game in Pokhran exhibiting indigenous capabilities</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/03/415895-succession-2024-03-03t184133965.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the war game ‘Bharat Shakti’ in Rajasthan’s Pokhran on March 12 which is likely to coincide with the Election Commission of India's announcement of the Lok Sabha election schedule.&nbsp;The top brass of the tri-services, including Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, are also scheduled to attend the warfare event.

A Hamas delegation on Sunday (Mar 3) arrived in Cairo as talks to hammer out a Gaza truce gain momentum. Mediators from Qatar and the US also arrived in Egypt’s capital on Sunday amid indications that Israel has agreed to the six-week truce deal currently in the works.

A Hamas delegation on Sunday (Mar 3) arrived in Cairo as talks to hammer out a Gaza truce gain momentum. Mediators from Qatar and the US also arrived in Egypt’s capital on Sunday amid indications that Israel has agreed to the six-week truce deal currently in the works. In other news, a German minister on Sunday (Mar 3) claimed Russian President Vladimir Putin was seeking to destabilise the country using the wiretap leak. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said, "It is about using this recording to destabilise and unsettle us," adding that he "hoped that Putin will not succeed". Click on the headlines to read more. Gaza war: Israel boycotts Cairo talks with Hamas over unknown fate of hostages A Hamas delegation on Sunday (Mar 3) arrived in Cairo as talks to hammer out a Gaza truce gain momentum. According to local media reports, mediators from Qatar and the US also arrived in Egypt’s capital on Sunday amid indications that Israel has agreed to the six-week truce deal currently in the works. However, the Jewish nation has reportedly boycotted the talks over the unknown fate of hostages still held by the Palestinian militant group. Ukraine war: Russia demands explanation from Berlin over ‘call recording’ leak In what comes as a massive embarrassment for Berlin, alleged call recordings of the German defence forces over the Ukraine war were posted on Russian social media by a state-backed journalist. Margarita Simonyan, the head of the Russia Today (RT) channel, posted the audio clip on her telegram channel, allegedly featuring German officers “discussing how to strike the Crimea bridge”, which links Russia to the Ukrainian peninsula. PM Modi chairs brainstorming session to discuss ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ plan During the last formal meeting of the Council of Ministers ahead of the upcoming general elections, on Sunday (Mar 3) the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a brainstorming session on the document ‘Viksit Bharat (Developed India) 2047,’ reported news agencies citing sources from the Government of India. Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif announces aim to join G20, rakes up Kashmir: Top points Weeks after the contentious February 8 elections and the political crisis that followed, former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) leader and brother of the three-time ex-PM Nawaz Sharif won enough votes in the country’s National Assembly to retake the premiership. 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Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebel group says will continue sinking British ships after Rubymar attack Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebel group on Sunday (March 3) said that it will continue to strike British ships in the Gulf of Aden after UK-owned vessel Rubymar sunk in the Red Sea. "Yemen will continue to sink more British ships, and any repercussions or other damages will be added to Britain's bill," Hussein al-Ezzi, deputy foreign minister in the Houthi-led government, said in a post on X. India: PM Modi set to attend ‘Bharat Shakti’ war game in Pokhran exhibiting indigenous capabilities Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the war game ‘Bharat Shakti’ in Rajasthan’s Pokhran on March 12 which is likely to coincide with the Election Commission of India's announcement of the Lok Sabha election schedule. The top brass of the tri-services, including Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, are also scheduled to attend the warfare event.

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Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebel group on Sunday (March 3) said that it will continue to strike British ships in the Gulf of Aden after UK-owned vessel Rubymar sunk in the Red Sea.

"Yemen will continue to sink more British ships, and any repercussions or other damages will be added to Britain's bill," Hussein al-Ezzi, deputy foreign minister in the Houthi-led government, said in a post on X.

"It is a rogue state that attacks Yemen and partners with America in sponsoring ongoing crimes against civilians in Gaza."

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اليمن ستواصل إغراق المزيد من السفن البريطانية وأي تداعيات أوأضرار أخرى سيتم إضافتها لفاتورةبريطانيا باعتبارها دولةمارقة تعتدي عل اليمن وتشارك امريكا في رعايةالجريمةالمستمرة بحق المدنيين في غزة 
(لايمكنك العبث في بلادي ثم الذهاب لقضاءسهرتك في الفابريك 
من يؤذي اليمن سنؤذيه 
too much)
— حسين العزي (@hussinalezzi5) <a href="https://twitter.com/hussinalezzi5/status/1764241726967775651?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The US military on Saturday confirmed that Rubymar had sunk after being hit by an anti-ship ballistic missile launched by Houthi militants in February.

After the attack by the Iran-backed militant group, the crew onboard was immediately evacuated.

Rubymar was loaded with over 41,000 tonnes of fertiliser at the time it was attacked, causing an 18-mile (29km) oil slick in the sea.

Watch | British cargo Ship Rubymar Hit by Houthi Missile Sinks in Red Sea

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<h2>‘Environmental catastrophe’</h2>

Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak, foreign minister in Yemen's Aden-based government, which is backed by Saudi Arabia, said in a post on X: "The sinking of the Rubymar is an environmental catastrophe that Yemen and the region have never experienced before."

"It is a new tragedy for our country and our people. Every day we pay the price for the adventures of the Houthi militia ..."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/leaking-uk-cargo-ship-attacked-by-houthis-sinks-in-red-sea-raises-environmental-concerns-696019">Also read:&nbsp;UK cargo ship attacked by Houthis sinks in Red Sea, raises environmental concerns</a>

Earlier, Yemen's Iran-backed rebel group had vowed to prevent the rescue of the leaking ship until people in the war-torn Gaza Strip were provided with access to food, water, and medicine.

“The sinking British ship might be hauled in return for delivering aid vehicles to Gaza,” Al-Houthi said on X. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Houthi rebels have repeatedly targeted international commercial shipping since November dubbing the attacks as acts of solidarity with Palestinians against Israel's military offensive in Gaza.

The Houthis' strikes are forcing ships to take a longer, more expensive route around Africa, disrupting the strategically important Suez Canal shortcut that accounts for nearly 12 per cent of global maritime traffic.

The United States and Britain began launching retaliatory strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen in January.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebel group on Sunday (March 3) said that it will continue to strike British ships in the Gulf of Aden after UK-owned vessel Rubymar sunk in the Red Sea.

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebel group on Sunday (March 3) said that it will continue to strike British ships in the Gulf of Aden after UK-owned vessel Rubymar sunk in the Red Sea. "Yemen will continue to sink more British ships, and any repercussions or other damages will be added to Britain's bill," Hussein al-Ezzi, deputy foreign minister in the Houthi-led government, said in a post on X. "It is a rogue state that attacks Yemen and partners with America in sponsoring ongoing crimes against civilians in Gaza." اليمن ستواصل إغراق المزيد من السفن البريطانية وأي تداعيات أوأضرار أخرى سيتم إضافتها لفاتورةبريطانيا باعتبارها دولةمارقة تعتدي عل اليمن وتشارك امريكا في رعايةالجريمةالمستمرة بحق المدنيين في غزة (لايمكنك العبث في بلادي ثم الذهاب لقضاءسهرتك في الفابريك من يؤذي اليمن سنؤذيه too much) — حسين العزي (@hussinalezzi5) March 3, 2024 × The US military on Saturday confirmed that Rubymar had sunk after being hit by an anti-ship ballistic missile launched by Houthi militants in February. After the attack by the Iran-backed militant group, the crew onboard was immediately evacuated. Rubymar was loaded with over 41,000 tonnes of fertiliser at the time it was attacked, causing an 18-mile (29km) oil slick in the sea. Watch | British cargo Ship Rubymar Hit by Houthi Missile Sinks in Red Sea × ‘Environmental catastrophe’ Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak, foreign minister in Yemen's Aden-based government, which is backed by Saudi Arabia, said in a post on X: "The sinking of the Rubymar is an environmental catastrophe that Yemen and the region have never experienced before." "It is a new tragedy for our country and our people. Every day we pay the price for the adventures of the Houthi militia ..." Also read: UK cargo ship attacked by Houthis sinks in Red Sea, raises environmental concerns Earlier, Yemen's Iran-backed rebel group had vowed to prevent the rescue of the leaking ship until people in the war-torn Gaza Strip were provided with access to food, water, and medicine. “The sinking British ship might be hauled in return for delivering aid vehicles to Gaza,” Al-Houthi said on X. Houthi rebels have repeatedly targeted international commercial shipping since November dubbing the attacks as acts of solidarity with Palestinians against Israel's military offensive in Gaza. The Houthis' strikes are forcing ships to take a longer, more expensive route around Africa, disrupting the strategically important Suez Canal shortcut that accounts for nearly 12 per cent of global maritime traffic. The United States and Britain began launching retaliatory strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen in January. (With inputs from agencies)

Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebel group says it will continue attacking British ships after Rubymar sinks

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the war game ‘Bharat Shakti’ in Rajasthan’s Pokhran on March 12 which is likely to coincide with the Election Commission of India's announcement of the Lok Sabha election schedule.

The top brass of the tri-services, including Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, are also scheduled to attend the warfare event.

The exercises in the war game will comprise an exhibition, and display of the weapons platforms and systems that have been designed in an indigenous manner.

The event, which is due to take place in Pokhran, is set around PM Modi's concept of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and will push India-centric tactics-led revolution in military affairs which is distinctive to the Indian geography and threats related to security when it comes to Bharat, as per a report by the Hindustan Times.

The ‘Bharat Shakti’ war game is aimed at testing the effectiveness of Indian-made platforms and network-centric systems and also to display the country's progress in the defence manufacturing sector.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-pm-modi-to-chair-key-ministerial-meet-ahead-of-polls-whats-on-agenda-696119">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: PM Modi to chair key ministerial meet ahead of polls. What’s on agenda?</a>

Apart from this, the exercise will also examine the integrity and resilience of indigenous communication systems and networks to ensure that they cannot be hacked especially during hostile conditions.

The exercise will also exhibit the alliance among the three defence services which often tend to operate within their silos.

The weapons set to be put on display are Tejas fighter aircraft, K-9 artillery guns, indigenous drones, Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers and short-range missiles.

Prior to this, PM Modi attended the Indian Air Forces’ Vayushakti-2024 at Pokhran Range near Jaisalmer last month, where a range of the country's enviable air assets, including Rafale fighters, LCH Prachand Chinook and Apache demonstrated their capabilities for the first time.

The theme of the Vayushakti was, 'Lightning Strike from the Sky', as 120 aircraft displayed the lAF's offensive capabilities by day as well as by night.

Fighters of the Indian Air Force that took part in the exercise included the Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, Mirage-2000, Tejas and Hawk. The fighters from the IAF fleet bombarded and destroyed simulated enemy targets on the ground and in the air with fatal precision.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the war game ‘Bharat Shakti’ in Rajasthan’s Pokhran on March 12 which is likely to coincide with the Election Commission of India's announcement of the Lok Sabha election schedule.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the war game ‘Bharat Shakti’ in Rajasthan’s Pokhran on March 12 which is likely to coincide with the Election Commission of India's announcement of the Lok Sabha election schedule. The top brass of the tri-services, including Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, are also scheduled to attend the warfare event. The exercises in the war game will comprise an exhibition, and display of the weapons platforms and systems that have been designed in an indigenous manner. The event, which is due to take place in Pokhran, is set around PM Modi's concept of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and will push India-centric tactics-led revolution in military affairs which is distinctive to the Indian geography and threats related to security when it comes to Bharat, as per a report by the Hindustan Times. The ‘Bharat Shakti’ war game is aimed at testing the effectiveness of Indian-made platforms and network-centric systems and also to display the country's progress in the defence manufacturing sector. Also read: Lok Sabha Elections 2024: PM Modi to chair key ministerial meet ahead of polls. What’s on agenda? Apart from this, the exercise will also examine the integrity and resilience of indigenous communication systems and networks to ensure that they cannot be hacked especially during hostile conditions. The exercise will also exhibit the alliance among the three defence services which often tend to operate within their silos. The weapons set to be put on display are Tejas fighter aircraft, K-9 artillery guns, indigenous drones, Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers and short-range missiles. Prior to this, PM Modi attended the Indian Air Forces’ Vayushakti-2024 at Pokhran Range near Jaisalmer last month, where a range of the country's enviable air assets, including Rafale fighters, LCH Prachand Chinook and Apache demonstrated their capabilities for the first time. The theme of the Vayushakti was, 'Lightning Strike from the Sky', as 120 aircraft displayed the lAF's offensive capabilities by day as well as by night. Fighters of the Indian Air Force that took part in the exercise included the Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, Mirage-2000, Tejas and Hawk. The fighters from the IAF fleet bombarded and destroyed simulated enemy targets on the ground and in the air with fatal precision. (With inputs from agencies)

India: PM Modi set to attend ‘Bharat Shakti’ war game in Pokhran exhibiting indigenous capabilities

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