Canadian authorities are on the lookout for a 60-year-old Sikh truck driver who fled to India after he was convicted of smuggling nearly 80 kg of cocaine into Canada from the United States, reported the local media.

Raj Kumar Mehmi was sentenced to 15-year-imprisonment in absentia by a provincial court in British Columbia earlier in November this year after he was arrested in the year 2017 for smuggling a controlled substance, the CBC reported on Wednesday (Dec 13).

However, on Oct 11, just a month before he could be sentenced, he boarded a flight to New Delhi from Vancouver,&nbsp;reported the&nbsp;Vancouver Sun.

Arash Seyed, a spokesman with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police's (RCMP) federal serious and organised crime division said that a Canada-wide warrant has been issued for Mehmi.

"If you locate this suspect or have information regarding his whereabouts, please do not approach him and contact your local police agency," Seyed said announcing the warrant in Surrey on Wednesday, as per CBC.

A red notice has also been issued in his name which asks member countries to help locate, arrest and extradite Mehmi to face criminal charges in Canada.

Mehmi, in a separate release, was described as 185cm in height (just over six feet tall) and weighing 91 kilogrammes.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vivek-ramaswamys-response-on-being-asked-if-us-can-accept-hindu-president-takes-internet-by-storm-669659">Will US accept Hindu president? Ramaswamy answers critical question and says 'won't fake identity'</a>

“Our officers are the first line of defence in keeping illicit drugs from crossing Canada’s borders and we are proud to work with the RCMP to ensure those who break our laws are held accountable. The seizure of over $3 million of cocaine at our Pacific Highway border crossing and the subsequent 15-year conviction is a direct result of the strong partnership between our organisations and the diligent work of our officers,” CBSA Pacific Region director Holly Stoner said.

<h2>80 bricks of cocaine discovered in Mehmi's truck</h2>

Mehmi's truck was stopped while he was at the Pacific Highway border crossing into Metro Vancouver, said the Canada Border Services Agency, as per CBC reports.

His truck was randomly selected by the officials for a secondary examination, which was when the drugs were discovered.

"During their search, CBSA officers found 80 bricks of cocaine inside the sleeper cab of the commercial vehicle," the agency's Pacific region director Holly Stoner said.

"The driver was arrested and taken into custody."

"There are certain conditions where an individual may be granted a passport, such as emergency situations," Seyed was quoted as saying by CBC.

(With inputs from agencies)

Canadian authorities are on the lookout for a 60-year-old Sikh truck driver who fled to India after he was convicted of smuggling nearly 80 kg of cocaine into Canada from the United States, reported the local media.

Canadian authorities are on the lookout for a 60-year-old Sikh truck driver who fled to India after he was convicted of smuggling nearly 80 kg of cocaine into Canada from the United States, reported the local media. Raj Kumar Mehmi was sentenced to 15-year-imprisonment in absentia by a provincial court in British Columbia earlier in November this year after he was arrested in the year 2017 for smuggling a controlled substance, the CBC reported on Wednesday (Dec 13). However, on Oct 11, just a month before he could be sentenced, he boarded a flight to New Delhi from Vancouver, reported the Vancouver Sun. Arash Seyed, a spokesman with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police's (RCMP) federal serious and organised crime division said that a Canada-wide warrant has been issued for Mehmi. "If you locate this suspect or have information regarding his whereabouts, please do not approach him and contact your local police agency," Seyed said announcing the warrant in Surrey on Wednesday, as per CBC. A red notice has also been issued in his name which asks member countries to help locate, arrest and extradite Mehmi to face criminal charges in Canada. Mehmi, in a separate release, was described as 185cm in height (just over six feet tall) and weighing 91 kilogrammes. Also read: Will US accept Hindu president? Ramaswamy answers critical question and says 'won't fake identity' “Our officers are the first line of defence in keeping illicit drugs from crossing Canada’s borders and we are proud to work with the RCMP to ensure those who break our laws are held accountable. The seizure of over $3 million of cocaine at our Pacific Highway border crossing and the subsequent 15-year conviction is a direct result of the strong partnership between our organisations and the diligent work of our officers,” CBSA Pacific Region director Holly Stoner said. 80 bricks of cocaine discovered in Mehmi's truck Mehmi's truck was stopped while he was at the Pacific Highway border crossing into Metro Vancouver, said the Canada Border Services Agency, as per CBC reports. His truck was randomly selected by the officials for a secondary examination, which was when the drugs were discovered. "During their search, CBSA officers found 80 bricks of cocaine inside the sleeper cab of the commercial vehicle," the agency's Pacific region director Holly Stoner said. "The driver was arrested and taken into custody." "There are certain conditions where an individual may be granted a passport, such as emergency situations," Seyed was quoted as saying by CBC. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada: Sikh driver flees to India after being convicted for smuggling cocaine

Danish authorities on Thursday (Dec 14) said that they foiled a terrorist attack after several arrests were made in the Netherlands and Denmark.

The police said that seven people, including four suspected Hamas members, were arrested on suspicion of planning attacks on Jewish institutions in Europe.

Three of the suspects were detained in Berlin and another was detained in the Netherlands, all four longstanding members of Hamas with close links to the leadership of Hamas' military branch, German prosecutors said in a statement.

"The investigation has revealed that a network of people has been preparing a terrorist act," Flemming Drejer, PET chief superintendent, told a press briefing in Copenhagen.

There were "ramifications involving other countries" and organised crime, he said.

"The arrests and the raids we're carrying out today are based on an intensive investigation that PET has carried out in close cooperation with our partners abroad," he added.

Drejer said other suspects currently abroad were also believed to be involved in the plot.

The network had connections with organised crime both in Denmark and outside of the country. It also had links with a gang named Loyal To Familia, or LTF, Dreyer said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vivek-ramaswamys-response-on-being-asked-if-us-can-accept-hindu-president-takes-internet-by-storm-669659">Will US accept Hindu president? Ramaswamy answers critical question and says 'won't fake identity'</a>

The PET and police districts conducted raids in the morning and made the arrests in several parts of the Scandinavian country, said the officials.

The PET put the threat at four on their five-point threat scale considering it to be critical.

Police stepped up their presence in Copenhagen but said the capital remained "safe".

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said the operations "show us the situation that Denmark is in".

"This is extremely serious," she said.

"It is of course - in relation to Israel and Gaza - completely unacceptable for someone to bring a conflict elsewhere in the world into Danish society," she said.

"For several years we have noted that there are people who live in Denmark and who do not wish us well, who are against our democracy, our freedom, and who are against Danish society," she told reporters.

The three arrested in Denmark would be charged with terrorism laws and put in front of a judge for preliminary interrogation, police said.

<h2>Anti-Danish sentiment over Quran burnings</h2>

Earlier, during summers this year, Denmark and neighbouring country Sweden witnessed violence after incidents involving the desecration of the holy book, the Quran.

Both countries were also targeted by several Muslim-majority nations.

In Iraq, nearly a thousand demonstrations were staged outside the Danish embassy in Baghdad's fortified Green Zone in late July following a call by firebrand cleric Moqtada Sadr.&nbsp;

Between July 21 and October 24 this year, 483 book burnings or flag burnings were recorded in Denmark, according to national police figures.

(With inputs from agencies)

Danish authorities on Thursday (Dec 14) said that they foiled a terrorist attack after several arrests were made in the Netherlands and Denmark. The police said that seven people, including four suspected Hamas members, were arrested on suspicion of planning attacks on Jewish institutions in Europe.

Danish authorities on Thursday (Dec 14) said that they foiled a terrorist attack after several arrests were made in the Netherlands and Denmark. The police said that seven people, including four suspected Hamas members, were arrested on suspicion of planning attacks on Jewish institutions in Europe. Three of the suspects were detained in Berlin and another was detained in the Netherlands, all four longstanding members of Hamas with close links to the leadership of Hamas' military branch, German prosecutors said in a statement. "The investigation has revealed that a network of people has been preparing a terrorist act," Flemming Drejer, PET chief superintendent, told a press briefing in Copenhagen. There were "ramifications involving other countries" and organised crime, he said. "The arrests and the raids we're carrying out today are based on an intensive investigation that PET has carried out in close cooperation with our partners abroad," he added. Drejer said other suspects currently abroad were also believed to be involved in the plot. The network had connections with organised crime both in Denmark and outside of the country. It also had links with a gang named Loyal To Familia, or LTF, Dreyer said. Also read: Will US accept Hindu president? Ramaswamy answers critical question and says 'won't fake identity' The PET and police districts conducted raids in the morning and made the arrests in several parts of the Scandinavian country, said the officials. The PET put the threat at four on their five-point threat scale considering it to be critical. Police stepped up their presence in Copenhagen but said the capital remained "safe". Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said the operations "show us the situation that Denmark is in". "This is extremely serious," she said. "It is of course - in relation to Israel and Gaza - completely unacceptable for someone to bring a conflict elsewhere in the world into Danish society," she said. "For several years we have noted that there are people who live in Denmark and who do not wish us well, who are against our democracy, our freedom, and who are against Danish society," she told reporters. The three arrested in Denmark would be charged with terrorism laws and put in front of a judge for preliminary interrogation, police said. Anti-Danish sentiment over Quran burnings Earlier, during summers this year, Denmark and neighbouring country Sweden witnessed violence after incidents involving the desecration of the holy book, the Quran. Both countries were also targeted by several Muslim-majority nations. In Iraq, nearly a thousand demonstrations were staged outside the Danish embassy in Baghdad's fortified Green Zone in late July following a call by firebrand cleric Moqtada Sadr. Between July 21 and October 24 this year, 483 book burnings or flag burnings were recorded in Denmark, according to national police figures. (With inputs from agencies)

Police arrest seven in Denmark, Netherlands and Germany over suspected terrorist attack

Black people in Canada's Toronto are immoderately being stopped and checked by police, a new report by the Ontario Human Rights Commission has found.

The commission’s report, which released on Thursday (Dec 14)&nbsp;concerning anti-Black racism incidents that take place within the Toronto Police Service, stated that even though the official street checks were fully eradicated from the system, Black people still reported being stopped and searched at a much larger frequency than the ones from other racial groups.

Nearly two years after the provincial regulation put a ban on the official street checks, a survey in 2019 found that around 40.4 per cent of Black respondents reported being stopped by the police at least once in the last two years, as compared to 24.7 per cent of white respondents and 24.9 per cent of Asian respondents, as per the Canadian Press reports.

The report highlighted that one of the problems was the presence of "significant gaps" between the provincial regulations and Toronto police policies and procedures that govern the interactions that take place between the public, particularly when it comes to stops and searches.

It also stated that Toronto police gathered and maintained "significant personal data" via the street checks before the provincial rules came into effect.

It further said that this data should be destroyed unless and until required for investigative purposes.

The commission has so far issued more than 100 recommendations to enhance police interactions with Black communities.

"I am cautiously optimistic that, if adopted, the OHRC's recommendations will help reduce systemic racism, improve public transparency and police oversight, and begin to foster a relationship of trust between the TPS and Toronto’s Black communities," Dr Scot Wortley, a professor of criminology and socio-legal studies at the University of Toronto who provided analysis for the report, wrote in a statement, according to the Canadian Press.

The probe into anti-Black racism within Toronto police was launched in the year 2017 and earlier released two interim reports – one in 2018 and one in 2020.

The report that came out in the year 2020 found that Black people were more likely than others to be arrested, charged or shot by the Toronto police.

(With inputs from agencies)

Black people in Canada's Toronto are immoderately being stopped and checked by police, a new report by the Ontario Human Rights Commission has found. The commission’s report, which released on Thursday (Dec 14) concerning anti-Black racism incidents that take place within the Toronto Police Service, stated that even though the official street checks were fully eradicated from the system, Black people still reported being stopped and searched at a much larger frequency than the ones from other racial groups.

Black people in Canada's Toronto are immoderately being stopped and checked by police, a new report by the Ontario Human Rights Commission has found. The commission’s report, which released on Thursday (Dec 14) concerning anti-Black racism incidents that take place within the Toronto Police Service, stated that even though the official street checks were fully eradicated from the system, Black people still reported being stopped and searched at a much larger frequency than the ones from other racial groups. Nearly two years after the provincial regulation put a ban on the official street checks, a survey in 2019 found that around 40.4 per cent of Black respondents reported being stopped by the police at least once in the last two years, as compared to 24.7 per cent of white respondents and 24.9 per cent of Asian respondents, as per the Canadian Press reports. The report highlighted that one of the problems was the presence of "significant gaps" between the provincial regulations and Toronto police policies and procedures that govern the interactions that take place between the public, particularly when it comes to stops and searches. It also stated that Toronto police gathered and maintained "significant personal data" via the street checks before the provincial rules came into effect. It further said that this data should be destroyed unless and until required for investigative purposes. The commission has so far issued more than 100 recommendations to enhance police interactions with Black communities. "I am cautiously optimistic that, if adopted, the OHRC's recommendations will help reduce systemic racism, improve public transparency and police oversight, and begin to foster a relationship of trust between the TPS and Toronto’s Black communities," Dr Scot Wortley, a professor of criminology and socio-legal studies at the University of Toronto who provided analysis for the report, wrote in a statement, according to the Canadian Press. The probe into anti-Black racism within Toronto police was launched in the year 2017 and earlier released two interim reports – one in 2018 and one in 2020. The report that came out in the year 2020 found that Black people were more likely than others to be arrested, charged or shot by the Toronto police. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada: Black people immoderately stopped, checked by Toronto police, finds report

Taylor Swift Songs That Topped The Billboard Charts


1.) We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together


This was Swift's first ever song to top the charts.


Shake It Off became Swift's first song to debut at the number-one position and remained at the top of the chart for four weeks.

Blank Space debuted at number 18 on the Hot 100.

Bad Blood remix featuring Kendrick Lamar rose from number 53 to the chart's top position and broke the Vevo record for most views in 24 hours.


This track by Swift broke the weekly streaming record for a song by a woman and rose to the top spot.


Anti-Hero was Swift's biggest hit ever as it grabbed the top spot of the Hot 100 charts for eight weeks straight, surpassing Blank Space which was her longest-running number-one track.

Pope Francis has called for a legally binding international treaty to regulate artificial intelligence, saying algorithms must not be allowed to replace human values and warning of a "technological dictatorship" threatening human existence.

The pope made his call on Thursday in a message for the Roman Catholic Church's World Day of Peace, which is celebrated on Jan. 1. The title of the message, which is traditionally sent to world leaders and heads of institutions such as the United Nations, is "Artificial Intelligence and Peace".

It came as governments around the world are seeking to balance the advantages of the technology, which can engage in human-like conversations, answer questions and write computer code, against the need to put guard rails in place.

"The global scale of artificial intelligence makes it clear that, alongside the responsibility of sovereign states to regulate its use internally, international organizations can play a decisive role in reaching multilateral agreements and coordinating their application and enforcement," Francis wrote in the message.

"I urge the global community of nations to work together in order to adopt a binding international treaty that regulates the development and use of artificial intelligence in its many forms," the pope said.

Last week, the European Union reached a provisional deal on landmark rules governing the use of AI, including governments' use of AI in biometric surveillance and how to regulate AI systems such as ChatGPT.

<h2>NEW AI APPLICATIONS</h2>

The pope's call also came as companies like OpenAI, in which Microsoft is an investor, continue to discover new uses for their technology, triggering both plaudits and concerns. Google owner Alphabet last week launched a new AI model, Gemini, to rival OpenAI.

Francis called for ethical scrutiny of the "aims and interest of (AI's) owners and developers" warning that some applications of AI "may pose a risk to our survival and endanger our common home," a reference to the earth.

"In an obsessive desire to control everything, we risk losing control over ourselves; in the quest for an absolute freedom, we risk falling into the spiral of a 'technological dictatorship,'" he wrote.

Francis, who has often criticised the armaments industry, warned against the use of AI in weapons systems, saying it could lead to a global catastrophe.

"Research on emerging technologies in the area of so-called Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems, including the weaponization of artificial intelligence, is a cause for grave ethical concern. Autonomous weapon systems can never be morally responsible subjects," he said.

The "unique human capacity for moral judgment and ethical decision-making" could not be left to a machine, he said, adding that "it is imperative to ensure adequate, meaningful and consistent human oversight of weapon systems".

At a news conference presenting the message, Cardinal Michael Czerny, head of the Vatican's human development office, said the 86-year-old pope was "no luddite," a term referring to someone opposed to new technology.

He said the pope appreciates technological and scientific progress that serves humanity but that Francis was particularly concerned about AI because it is "perhaps the highest-stake gamble of our future".

Pope Francis has called for a legally binding international treaty to regulate artificial intelligence, saying algorithms must not be allowed to replace human values and warning of a "technological dictatorship" threatening human existence.

Pope Francis has called for a legally binding international treaty to regulate artificial intelligence, saying algorithms must not be allowed to replace human values and warning of a "technological dictatorship" threatening human existence. The pope made his call on Thursday in a message for the Roman Catholic Church's World Day of Peace, which is celebrated on Jan. 1. The title of the message, which is traditionally sent to world leaders and heads of institutions such as the United Nations, is "Artificial Intelligence and Peace". It came as governments around the world are seeking to balance the advantages of the technology, which can engage in human-like conversations, answer questions and write computer code, against the need to put guard rails in place. "The global scale of artificial intelligence makes it clear that, alongside the responsibility of sovereign states to regulate its use internally, international organizations can play a decisive role in reaching multilateral agreements and coordinating their application and enforcement," Francis wrote in the message. "I urge the global community of nations to work together in order to adopt a binding international treaty that regulates the development and use of artificial intelligence in its many forms," the pope said. Last week, the European Union reached a provisional deal on landmark rules governing the use of AI, including governments' use of AI in biometric surveillance and how to regulate AI systems such as ChatGPT. NEW AI APPLICATIONS The pope's call also came as companies like OpenAI, in which Microsoft is an investor, continue to discover new uses for their technology, triggering both plaudits and concerns. Google owner Alphabet last week launched a new AI model, Gemini, to rival OpenAI. Francis called for ethical scrutiny of the "aims and interest of (AI's) owners and developers" warning that some applications of AI "may pose a risk to our survival and endanger our common home," a reference to the earth. "In an obsessive desire to control everything, we risk losing control over ourselves; in the quest for an absolute freedom, we risk falling into the spiral of a 'technological dictatorship,'" he wrote. Francis, who has often criticised the armaments industry, warned against the use of AI in weapons systems, saying it could lead to a global catastrophe. "Research on emerging technologies in the area of so-called Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems, including the weaponization of artificial intelligence, is a cause for grave ethical concern. Autonomous weapon systems can never be morally responsible subjects," he said. The "unique human capacity for moral judgment and ethical decision-making" could not be left to a machine, he said, adding that "it is imperative to ensure adequate, meaningful and consistent human oversight of weapon systems". At a news conference presenting the message, Cardinal Michael Czerny, head of the Vatican's human development office, said the 86-year-old pope was "no luddite," a term referring to someone opposed to new technology. He said the pope appreciates technological and scientific progress that serves humanity but that Francis was particularly concerned about AI because it is "perhaps the highest-stake gamble of our future".

Pope Francis calls for binding global treaty to regulate AI

The human influence has pushed the moon into a new geological epoch called the Lunar Anthropocene, a group of researchers suggest.

A new study by the University of Kansas says that this new phase of existence for the moon has been triggered by human disturbance which dates back to 1959 when for the very first time the USSR’s Luna 2 mission made contact with the lunar surface.

Since then, more than a hundred other spacecraft have made their way to the moon's surface with or without the crews significantly impacting its surface.

The scientists argue that in the coming years, the missions and projects that have been planned to study the moon can have a severe impact on the Earth's only natural satellite.

<h2>What is the Anthropocene?</h2>

The Anthropocene is an unofficial unit of geologic time, that is used to describe the most recent period in the history of the planet when human activity begins showing traces of its significant impact on the climate and ecosystems.

For the longest time being used in the context of Earth, researchers suggest that the planet entered into the period of Anthropocene in the 1950s.

Now in the case of the moon, the scientists at the University of Kansas say that the missions designated for the exploration of the Earth's satellite have ignited a new era of human interference on the lunar surface.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/giant-lighthouses-being-planned-to-be-built-on-moon-for-future-explorations-669499">Moon might soon become home to giant lighthouses to show future rovers the way</a>

The anthropologists and geologists at the university say it is high time now that we acknowledge how humans have become the prevalent force in altering the moon’s environment by declaring a new geological epoch for the moon: the Lunar Anthropocene.

“The idea is much the same as the discussion of the Anthropocene on Earth — the exploration of how much humans have impacted our planet,” said lead author Justin Holcomb, a postdoctoral researcher with the Kansas Geological Survey at KU.&nbsp;

“The consensus is on Earth the Anthropocene began at some point in the past, whether hundreds of thousands of years ago or in the 1950s. Similarly, on the moon, we argue the Lunar Anthropocene already has commenced, but we want to prevent massive damage or a delay of its recognition until we can measure a significant lunar halo caused by human activities, which would be too late." Holcomb said.

He also laid stress on how the lunar landscape was no longer a static or untouched entity.

Busting the myth that the moon is an unchanging environment, barely impacted by humanity, Holcomb underlined how cultural processes were overtaking the natural background of geological processes on the moon.

"Cultural processes are starting to outstrip the natural background of geological processes on the moon," Holcomb said.&nbsp;

“These processes involve moving sediments, which we refer to as ‘regolith,’ on the moon. Typically, these processes include meteoroid impacts and mass movement events, among others. However, when we consider the impact of rovers, landers and human movement, they significantly disturb the regolith. In the context of the new space race, the lunar landscape will be entirely different in 50 years. Multiple countries will be present, leading to numerous challenges. Our goal is to dispel the lunar-static myth and emphasize the importance of our impact, not only in the past but ongoing and in the future. We aim to initiate discussions about our impact on the lunar surface before it's too late,” he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/is-barringer-crater-in-arizona-formed-by-asteroids-curveball-spins-study-reveals-669519">Asteroid with curveball-like spin likely created 49,000-year-old Barringer Crater</a>

<h2>How are moon missions affecting the lunar surface?</h2>

The scientists say that in all these years with several landings on the moon, humans have overlooked the “Leave No Trace” principles and have left a number of things on the lunar surface including “discarded and abandoned spacecraft components, bags of human excreta, scientific equipment, and other objects (e.g., flags, golf balls, photographs, religious texts).”

“We know that while the Moon does not have an atmosphere or magnetosphere, it does have a delicate exosphere composed of dust and gas, as well as ice inside permanently shadowed areas, and both are susceptible to exhaust gas propagation,” the study authors say. “Future missions must consider mitigating deleterious effects on lunar environments.”

The human activity, the researchers say, is more complex than it may be perceived as once the changes are made to the lunar surface, they last for a very long time considering there can possibly be no erosion of the alterations as the moon sees no wind or rain. This means any effects humans have on the moon's surface are most likely permanent.

Holcomb said that he and his colleagues, through the Lunar Anthropocene want to lay stress on the potential the human influence holds on negatively impacting the environment of the moon.

“The concept of a Lunar Anthropocene aims to raise awareness and contemplation regarding our impact on the lunar surface, as well as our influence on the preservation of historical artefacts,” Holcomb said.

The researcher at the University of Kansas said that they aim to preserve or catalogue items such as rovers, flags, golf balls and footprints on the moon’s surface.

“As archaeologists, we perceive footprints on the moon as an extension of humanity's journey out of Africa, a pivotal milestone in our species' existence,” Holcomb said. “These imprints are intertwined with the overarching narrative of evolution. It’s within this framework we seek to capture the interest of not only planetary scientists but also archaeologists and anthropologists who may not typically engage in discussions about planetary science.”

(With inputs from agencies)

The human influence has pushed the moon into a new geological epoch called the Lunar Anthropocene, a group of researchers suggest. A new study by the University of Kansas says that this new phase of existence for the moon has been triggered by human disturbance which dates back to 1959 when for the very first time the USSR’s Luna 2 mission made contact with the lunar surface.

The human influence has pushed the moon into a new geological epoch called the Lunar Anthropocene, a group of researchers suggest. A new study by the University of Kansas says that this new phase of existence for the moon has been triggered by human disturbance which dates back to 1959 when for the very first time the USSR’s Luna 2 mission made contact with the lunar surface. Since then, more than a hundred other spacecraft have made their way to the moon's surface with or without the crews significantly impacting its surface. The scientists argue that in the coming years, the missions and projects that have been planned to study the moon can have a severe impact on the Earth's only natural satellite. What is the Anthropocene? The Anthropocene is an unofficial unit of geologic time, that is used to describe the most recent period in the history of the planet when human activity begins showing traces of its significant impact on the climate and ecosystems. For the longest time being used in the context of Earth, researchers suggest that the planet entered into the period of Anthropocene in the 1950s. Now in the case of the moon, the scientists at the University of Kansas say that the missions designated for the exploration of the Earth's satellite have ignited a new era of human interference on the lunar surface. Also read: Moon might soon become home to giant lighthouses to show future rovers the way The anthropologists and geologists at the university say it is high time now that we acknowledge how humans have become the prevalent force in altering the moon’s environment by declaring a new geological epoch for the moon: the Lunar Anthropocene. “The idea is much the same as the discussion of the Anthropocene on Earth — the exploration of how much humans have impacted our planet,” said lead author Justin Holcomb, a postdoctoral researcher with the Kansas Geological Survey at KU. “The consensus is on Earth the Anthropocene began at some point in the past, whether hundreds of thousands of years ago or in the 1950s. Similarly, on the moon, we argue the Lunar Anthropocene already has commenced, but we want to prevent massive damage or a delay of its recognition until we can measure a significant lunar halo caused by human activities, which would be too late." Holcomb said. He also laid stress on how the lunar landscape was no longer a static or untouched entity. Busting the myth that the moon is an unchanging environment, barely impacted by humanity, Holcomb underlined how cultural processes were overtaking the natural background of geological processes on the moon. "Cultural processes are starting to outstrip the natural background of geological processes on the moon," Holcomb said. “These processes involve moving sediments, which we refer to as ‘regolith,’ on the moon. Typically, these processes include meteoroid impacts and mass movement events, among others. However, when we consider the impact of rovers, landers and human movement, they significantly disturb the regolith. In the context of the new space race, the lunar landscape will be entirely different in 50 years. Multiple countries will be present, leading to numerous challenges. Our goal is to dispel the lunar-static myth and emphasize the importance of our impact, not only in the past but ongoing and in the future. We aim to initiate discussions about our impact on the lunar surface before it's too late,” he added. Also read: Asteroid with curveball-like spin likely created 49,000-year-old Barringer Crater How are moon missions affecting the lunar surface? The scientists say that in all these years with several landings on the moon, humans have overlooked the “Leave No Trace” principles and have left a number of things on the lunar surface including “discarded and abandoned spacecraft components, bags of human excreta, scientific equipment, and other objects (e.g., flags, golf balls, photographs, religious texts).” “We know that while the Moon does not have an atmosphere or magnetosphere, it does have a delicate exosphere composed of dust and gas, as well as ice inside permanently shadowed areas, and both are susceptible to exhaust gas propagation,” the study authors say. “Future missions must consider mitigating deleterious effects on lunar environments.” The human activity, the researchers say, is more complex than it may be perceived as once the changes are made to the lunar surface, they last for a very long time considering there can possibly be no erosion of the alterations as the moon sees no wind or rain. This means any effects humans have on the moon's surface are most likely permanent. Holcomb said that he and his colleagues, through the Lunar Anthropocene want to lay stress on the potential the human influence holds on negatively impacting the environment of the moon. “The concept of a Lunar Anthropocene aims to raise awareness and contemplation regarding our impact on the lunar surface, as well as our influence on the preservation of historical artefacts,” Holcomb said. The researcher at the University of Kansas said that they aim to preserve or catalogue items such as rovers, flags, golf balls and footprints on the moon’s surface. “As archaeologists, we perceive footprints on the moon as an extension of humanity's journey out of Africa, a pivotal milestone in our species' existence,” Holcomb said. “These imprints are intertwined with the overarching narrative of evolution. It’s within this framework we seek to capture the interest of not only planetary scientists but also archaeologists and anthropologists who may not typically engage in discussions about planetary science.” (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Humans are on the Moon and it might be the beginning of the end for our satellite

Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy's response on being asked if the United States will accept a president of a different faith during the CNN town hall has taken the internet by storm.

Gunny Mitchell, an Iowa voter, questioned him asking, "How do you respond to those who assert that you cannot be our president because your religion does not align with what our founding fathers based our country on?"

To this, Ramaswamy responded by saying he was not a "fake convert" and that he would not lie to map out his political career. He then went on to add that both faiths, Hinduism and Christianity "share the same value set in common".

"I am a Hindu, and if I wanted to map out my political career and really solve for know, I could fake convert. I'm not going to do that. I'm going to tell you about my faith," he said.

"My upbringing was quite conventional. My parents taught me that marriages are sacred, families are the cornerstone of society, abstinence before marriage is a viable option when things don't work out, adultery is wrong. that enjoying life's pleasures requires giving something up. Are those values not from elsewhere?" Ramaswamy added.

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A voter tonight in Iowa asked about my Hindu faith. I answered honestly. <a href="https://t.co/hkUrZkbhUx">pic.twitter.com/hkUrZkbhUx</a>
— Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) <a href="https://twitter.com/VivekGRamaswamy/status/1735130690864201868?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Further highlighting the values of the Hindu faith, Ramaswamy underlined that there is only one true God and that he lives within each one of us.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-prosecution-in-jan-6-riots-may-come-sooner-than-expected-heres-why-669385">Trump's prosecution in Jan 6 riots may come sooner than expected. Here's why</a>

"There's one true God. Don't take his name in vain. Observe the Sabbath. Respect your parents. Don't kill. Don't lie. Don't cheat, don't steal. Don't commit adultery. Don't covet. That's when it hit me. We share the same value set in common. There's another core teaching in my faith, which is that we don't get to choose who God works through. God chooses who God works through," the US presidential candidate said.

He added, "Based on my religious beliefs, I understand that every person is here for a reason and it is our moral obligation to fulfil that reason because God lives within each of us, even though God works through us in various ways, we are all equal."

<h2>Ramaswamy reiterates call to ban birthright citizenship</h2>

During the Townhall, Ramaswamy again echoed his call to put a ban on birthright citizenship for illegal immigrants stating that the country should not reward the one "who violate the law".

"I say this as the kid of legal immigrants: I favour ending birthright citizenship for those whose parents entered the country *illegally* because we shouldn't reward those who violate the law with the intent of exploiting the citizenship rules. The best border policy is to end incentives for illegal migrants to be here. Democrats created them but Republicans aren't blameless either," he said.

The Indian-origin US presidential candidate announced his election bid earlier this year.

(With inputs from agencies)

Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy's response on being asked if the United States will accept a president of a different faith during the CNN town hall has taken the internet by storm.

Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy's response on being asked if the United States will accept a president of a different faith during the CNN town hall has taken the internet by storm. Gunny Mitchell, an Iowa voter, questioned him asking, "How do you respond to those who assert that you cannot be our president because your religion does not align with what our founding fathers based our country on?" To this, Ramaswamy responded by saying he was not a "fake convert" and that he would not lie to map out his political career. He then went on to add that both faiths, Hinduism and Christianity "share the same value set in common". "I am a Hindu, and if I wanted to map out my political career and really solve for know, I could fake convert. I'm not going to do that. I'm going to tell you about my faith," he said. "My upbringing was quite conventional. My parents taught me that marriages are sacred, families are the cornerstone of society, abstinence before marriage is a viable option when things don't work out, adultery is wrong. that enjoying life's pleasures requires giving something up. Are those values not from elsewhere?" Ramaswamy added. A voter tonight in Iowa asked about my Hindu faith. I answered honestly. pic.twitter.com/hkUrZkbhUx — Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) December 14, 2023 × Further highlighting the values of the Hindu faith, Ramaswamy underlined that there is only one true God and that he lives within each one of us. Also read: Trump's prosecution in Jan 6 riots may come sooner than expected. Here's why "There's one true God. Don't take his name in vain. Observe the Sabbath. Respect your parents. Don't kill. Don't lie. Don't cheat, don't steal. Don't commit adultery. Don't covet. That's when it hit me. We share the same value set in common. There's another core teaching in my faith, which is that we don't get to choose who God works through. God chooses who God works through," the US presidential candidate said. He added, "Based on my religious beliefs, I understand that every person is here for a reason and it is our moral obligation to fulfil that reason because God lives within each of us, even though God works through us in various ways, we are all equal." Ramaswamy reiterates call to ban birthright citizenship During the Townhall, Ramaswamy again echoed his call to put a ban on birthright citizenship for illegal immigrants stating that the country should not reward the one "who violate the law". "I say this as the kid of legal immigrants: I favour ending birthright citizenship for those whose parents entered the country *illegally* because we shouldn't reward those who violate the law with the intent of exploiting the citizenship rules. The best border policy is to end incentives for illegal migrants to be here. Democrats created them but Republicans aren't blameless either," he said. The Indian-origin US presidential candidate announced his election bid earlier this year. (With inputs from agencies)

Will US accept Hindu president? Ramaswamy answers critical question and says 'won't fake identity'

Union Minister for Women and Child Development Smriti Irani on Wednesday (Dec 12) opposed the paid menstruation leave policy stating that the menstruation cycle was "not a handicap".

Irani's remarks came in response to a question asked by Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) member in the upper house Manoj Kumar Jha on the menstrual hygiene policy in India.

“As a menstruating woman, menstruation and the menstruation cycle is not a handicap, it’s a natural part of women’s life journey…We should not propose issues where women are denied equal opportunities just because somebody who does not menstruate has a particular viewpoint towards menstruation,” she said in Rajya Sabha.

Last week, Irani, in response to Congress MP Shashi Tharoor's question, had told Lok Sabha that there was no proposal made under the consideration of the government to make provision for paid menstrual leave mandatory for all workplaces.

“A small proportion of women/ girls suffer from severe dysmenorrhea or similar complaints, and most of these cases are manageable by medication,” she said in a written response on Wednesday that was submitted in the upper house.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-stresses-on-need-to-prepare-global-framework-for-ai-raises-concerns-over-deep-fake-abuse-669378">PM Modi stresses on need to prepare global framework for AI, raises concerns over deep fake abuse</a>

"The issue of menstruation and its associated activities are surrounded by silence, often treated with shame and associated with social taboos that restrict mobility, freedom and access to normal activities for menstruating persons, and many a time leads to their harassment and social exclusion. It becomes even more sensitive when a girl/ menstruating person is unaware of the changes that she undergoes emotionally and physically while facing her menstrual cycle for the first time," she wrote.

<h2>Health ministry has formulated&nbsp;draft menstrual hygiene policy, says Irani</h2>

Irani on Wednesday informed the Rajya Sabha that the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had formulated a draft menstrual hygiene policy in consultation with stakeholders.

She also highlighted other initiatives taken by various ministries for the promotion of menstrual hygiene.

Under the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao component of Mission Shakti, an umbrella scheme for safety, security and empowerment of women implemented by the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development, raising awareness about menstrual hygiene is one of the key areas, she added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Union Minister for Women and Child Development Smriti Irani on Wednesday (Dec 12) opposed the paid menstruation leave policy stating that the menstruation cycle was "not a handicap".

Union Minister for Women and Child Development Smriti Irani on Wednesday (Dec 12) opposed the paid menstruation leave policy stating that the menstruation cycle was "not a handicap". Irani's remarks came in response to a question asked by Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) member in the upper house Manoj Kumar Jha on the menstrual hygiene policy in India. “As a menstruating woman, menstruation and the menstruation cycle is not a handicap, it’s a natural part of women’s life journey…We should not propose issues where women are denied equal opportunities just because somebody who does not menstruate has a particular viewpoint towards menstruation,” she said in Rajya Sabha. Last week, Irani, in response to Congress MP Shashi Tharoor's question, had told Lok Sabha that there was no proposal made under the consideration of the government to make provision for paid menstrual leave mandatory for all workplaces. “A small proportion of women/ girls suffer from severe dysmenorrhea or similar complaints, and most of these cases are manageable by medication,” she said in a written response on Wednesday that was submitted in the upper house. Also read: PM Modi stresses on need to prepare global framework for AI, raises concerns over deep fake abuse "The issue of menstruation and its associated activities are surrounded by silence, often treated with shame and associated with social taboos that restrict mobility, freedom and access to normal activities for menstruating persons, and many a time leads to their harassment and social exclusion. It becomes even more sensitive when a girl/ menstruating person is unaware of the changes that she undergoes emotionally and physically while facing her menstrual cycle for the first time," she wrote. Health ministry has formulated draft menstrual hygiene policy, says Irani Irani on Wednesday informed the Rajya Sabha that the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had formulated a draft menstrual hygiene policy in consultation with stakeholders. She also highlighted other initiatives taken by various ministries for the promotion of menstrual hygiene. Under the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao component of Mission Shakti, an umbrella scheme for safety, security and empowerment of women implemented by the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development, raising awareness about menstrual hygiene is one of the key areas, she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Smriti Irani opposes menstruation leave policy, says it's 'not a handicap'

Israel on Wednesday (Dec 13) declared that it would continue its war against Hamas in Gaza "with or without international support".

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also reiterated that "nothing could stop" his country from continuing the war until it achieves victory against the Palestinian militant group.

"We will continue until the end. There is no question at all. I say this in light of great pain, but also in light of international pressure. Nothing will stop us. We are going until the end, until victory, nothing less than that," Netanyahu said in a video statement released by his office.

While talking to the soldiers over the radio, Netanyahu said, "I want you to pass this along to the last of the soldiers - we're continuing until the end, until victory, until Hamas is annihilated, let there be no doubt about this. This is important, it is a message I want to convey to each and every soldier over there."

Israel announced its worst combat casualties in more than a month on Wednesday after an ambush in the ruins of Gaza City and fronted growing diplomatic seclusion as civilian deaths ascended and a humanitarian catastrophe deepened.

Tel Aviv said that 10 of its soldiers lost their lives in the intense fighting in the past 24 hours, including a full colonel commanding a forward base and a lieutenant colonel commanding a regiment.

Hamas said the incident showed that Israeli forces could never subdue Gaza: "The longer you stay there, the greater the bill of your deaths and losses will be, and you will emerge from it carrying the tail of disappointment and loss, God willing."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-starts-flooding-seawater-in-gaza-tunnels-to-dismantle-hamas-network-report-669279">Israel starts flooding seawater in Gaza tunnels to dismantle Hamas network: Report</a>

The intense fighting between the two warring sides continued a day after the United Nations demanded an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.&nbsp;

Israel also came under mounting pressure from its key backer United States when President Joe Biden said Tel Aviv's "indiscriminate" bombing of civilians was costing it international support.

<h2>Biden meets families of US hostages</h2>

Meanwhile, Biden on Wednesday met the families of the people held hostage by Hamas in Gaza.

According to the officials, the gathering took place in the White House where Secretary of State Antony Blinken was also present.

Approximately eight US hostages are being held in Gaza, according to the Biden administration.

As per the Israeli officials, after the swap that happened during the truce between both sides, nearly 135 hostages are still held captive in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 
&nbsp;

Israel on Wednesday (Dec 13) declared that it would continue its war against Hamas in Gaza "with or without international support". Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also reiterated that "nothing could stop" his country from continuing the war until it achieves victory against the Palestinian militant group.

Israel on Wednesday (Dec 13) declared that it would continue its war against Hamas in Gaza "with or without international support". Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also reiterated that "nothing could stop" his country from continuing the war until it achieves victory against the Palestinian militant group. "We will continue until the end. There is no question at all. I say this in light of great pain, but also in light of international pressure. Nothing will stop us. We are going until the end, until victory, nothing less than that," Netanyahu said in a video statement released by his office. While talking to the soldiers over the radio, Netanyahu said, "I want you to pass this along to the last of the soldiers - we're continuing until the end, until victory, until Hamas is annihilated, let there be no doubt about this. This is important, it is a message I want to convey to each and every soldier over there." Israel announced its worst combat casualties in more than a month on Wednesday after an ambush in the ruins of Gaza City and fronted growing diplomatic seclusion as civilian deaths ascended and a humanitarian catastrophe deepened. Tel Aviv said that 10 of its soldiers lost their lives in the intense fighting in the past 24 hours, including a full colonel commanding a forward base and a lieutenant colonel commanding a regiment. Hamas said the incident showed that Israeli forces could never subdue Gaza: "The longer you stay there, the greater the bill of your deaths and losses will be, and you will emerge from it carrying the tail of disappointment and loss, God willing." Also read: Israel starts flooding seawater in Gaza tunnels to dismantle Hamas network: Report The intense fighting between the two warring sides continued a day after the United Nations demanded an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. Israel also came under mounting pressure from its key backer United States when President Joe Biden said Tel Aviv's "indiscriminate" bombing of civilians was costing it international support. Biden meets families of US hostages Meanwhile, Biden on Wednesday met the families of the people held hostage by Hamas in Gaza. According to the officials, the gathering took place in the White House where Secretary of State Antony Blinken was also present. Approximately eight US hostages are being held in Gaza, according to the Biden administration. As per the Israeli officials, after the swap that happened during the truce between both sides, nearly 135 hostages are still held captive in Gaza. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

'Nothing will stop us' until victory is achieved in Gaza, says Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has said that the government's plans to curb legal migration will trigger a recruitment crisis in the British capital.

High levels of legal migration have particularly ruled the political landscape of Britain for over ten years and have been a significant factor in the 2016 vote for Brexit.

Last week, Britain announced plans to slash the number of migrants that were arriving via legal routes and raise the minimum salary they must earn in a skilled job by a third&nbsp;amid pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to tackle record net migration figures.

Home Secretary (interior minister) James Cleverly said the new measures could reduce that number by 300,000.

Cleverly said that the government would raise the minimum salary threshold for foreign skilled workers to 38,700 pounds ($48,900), from its current level of 26,200 pounds, though health and social workers would be exempt.

Describing the policies as misguided, Khan said that the failure to train the domestic workforce will make it difficult for London businesses to function without the required staff.

“One of the reasons that London is the greatest city in the world is the contribution of successive generations of immigrants working side by side with trained Brits. Migrants are absolutely integral to our economy and public services, whether running our care homes and our bars and restaurants or helping power our world-leading arts and creative sector," the Guardian quoted Khan as saying.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-nations-adopted-historic-deal-to-transition-away-from-fossil-fuels-what-is-it-about-669389">COP28 summit: Nations adopt historic deal to transition away from fossil fuels</a>

“It is vital that more is done to train up British workers with the right skills. But the government needs to realise that these latest immigration policies will lead to a full-blown recruitment crisis. This will have severe consequences for public services and the economy, not just here in London but across the UK.”

<h2>'New immigration salary'</h2>

Cleverly said the government would put an end to the current system that lets employers pay migrants only 80 per cent&nbsp;of the going rate to do jobs where there is a significant worker shortage.

"We will stop immigration undercutting the salary of British workers," Cleverly told lawmakers. "We will create a new immigration salary list with a reduced number of occupations."

(With inputs from agencies)

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has said that the government's plans to curb legal migration will trigger a recruitment crisis in the British capital. High levels of legal migration have particularly ruled the political landscape of Britain for over ten years and have been a significant factor in the 2016 vote for Brexit.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has said that the government's plans to curb legal migration will trigger a recruitment crisis in the British capital. High levels of legal migration have particularly ruled the political landscape of Britain for over ten years and have been a significant factor in the 2016 vote for Brexit. Last week, Britain announced plans to slash the number of migrants that were arriving via legal routes and raise the minimum salary they must earn in a skilled job by a third amid pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to tackle record net migration figures. Home Secretary (interior minister) James Cleverly said the new measures could reduce that number by 300,000. Cleverly said that the government would raise the minimum salary threshold for foreign skilled workers to 38,700 pounds ($48,900), from its current level of 26,200 pounds, though health and social workers would be exempt. Describing the policies as misguided, Khan said that the failure to train the domestic workforce will make it difficult for London businesses to function without the required staff. “One of the reasons that London is the greatest city in the world is the contribution of successive generations of immigrants working side by side with trained Brits. Migrants are absolutely integral to our economy and public services, whether running our care homes and our bars and restaurants or helping power our world-leading arts and creative sector," the Guardian quoted Khan as saying. Also read: COP28 summit: Nations adopt historic deal to transition away from fossil fuels “It is vital that more is done to train up British workers with the right skills. But the government needs to realise that these latest immigration policies will lead to a full-blown recruitment crisis. This will have severe consequences for public services and the economy, not just here in London but across the UK.” 'New immigration salary' Cleverly said the government would put an end to the current system that lets employers pay migrants only 80 per cent of the going rate to do jobs where there is a significant worker shortage. "We will stop immigration undercutting the salary of British workers," Cleverly told lawmakers. "We will create a new immigration salary list with a reduced number of occupations." (With inputs from agencies)

UK's plan to curb legal migration will push London into 'recruitment crisis', says Mayor Sadiq Khan

Credit Agricole (CAGR.PA), France's second-largest listed bank, said on Thursday it would stop financing new fossil fuel extraction projects and publish its exposure to that sector as part of its new climate targets.

The announcement follows the deal struck at the COP28 climate summit among representatives of nearly 200 countries, who agreed to begin reducing global consumption of fossil fuels to avert the worst of climate change.

Credit Agricole, which counts French oil major TotalEnergies (TTEF.PA) among its top clients, said it would cut financed carbon emissions tied to the oil and gas sectors by 75% by 2030, compared with a previously announced target of a 30% reduction.

"Even if the signal is a good one and is welcome, the methodology remains very incomplete, one could even say bad, in terms of claiming to be aligned with a target of limiting higher temperatures by 1.5 degrees Celsius," said Lucie Pinson from Reclaim Finance, commenting on Credit Agricole's plans.

More European banks are pledging to reduce their financing of fossil fuels, incentivised by new European rules that will shine a light on how green their businesses are and pressure from campaign groups and some shareholders. British banks NatWest and HSBC, and Dutch bank ING, are among those to have announced restrictions on such lending.

US and Asian lenders, however, remain the far bigger backers of fossil fuels.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vivek-ramaswamys-response-on-being-asked-if-us-can-accept-hindu-president-takes-internet-by-storm-669659">Will US accept Hindu president? Ramaswamy answers critical question and says 'won't fake identity'</a>

Barclays is the only European lender in the top ten financiers of fossil fuels between 2016 and 2022, with JPMorgan, Citi and Wells Fargo the three biggest, according to the NGO-authored Banking on Climate Chaos report.

Credit Agricole also said it would triple its annual financing of renewable energy projects by 2030 to 3 billion euros ($3.3 billion) from 1 billion euros currently.

It added it would hike by 80% its investment bank unit's exposure to low-carbon energies between 2020 and 2025, with the aim of reaching 13.3 billion euros.

Credit Agricole's new goals are part of the so-called "net zero 2050 scenario", under which the world aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by the middle of the century.

Environmental advocacy groups have criticised Credit Agricole for not doing enough to reduce its credit exposure to the oil and gas sectors, pressing the bank to increase transparency on these issues.

Credit Agricole said it would report its total exposure to existing fossil extraction projects in which it is still committed in the first quarter of 2024.

It added that, regarding its financing of energy companies, it would have no corporate financing of independent producers dedicated exclusively to the exploration or production of oil and gas.

"In a context of climate emergency, we need to amplify our commitment towards measures supporting the transformation of society," Chief Executive Philippe Brassac said.

Credit Agricole (CAGR.PA), France's second-largest listed bank, said on Thursday it would stop financing new fossil fuel extraction projects and publish its exposure to that sector as part of its new climate targets.

Credit Agricole (CAGR.PA), France's second-largest listed bank, said on Thursday it would stop financing new fossil fuel extraction projects and publish its exposure to that sector as part of its new climate targets. The announcement follows the deal struck at the COP28 climate summit among representatives of nearly 200 countries, who agreed to begin reducing global consumption of fossil fuels to avert the worst of climate change. Credit Agricole, which counts French oil major TotalEnergies (TTEF.PA) among its top clients, said it would cut financed carbon emissions tied to the oil and gas sectors by 75% by 2030, compared with a previously announced target of a 30% reduction. "Even if the signal is a good one and is welcome, the methodology remains very incomplete, one could even say bad, in terms of claiming to be aligned with a target of limiting higher temperatures by 1.5 degrees Celsius," said Lucie Pinson from Reclaim Finance, commenting on Credit Agricole's plans. More European banks are pledging to reduce their financing of fossil fuels, incentivised by new European rules that will shine a light on how green their businesses are and pressure from campaign groups and some shareholders. British banks NatWest and HSBC, and Dutch bank ING, are among those to have announced restrictions on such lending. US and Asian lenders, however, remain the far bigger backers of fossil fuels. Also read: Will US accept Hindu president? Ramaswamy answers critical question and says 'won't fake identity' Barclays is the only European lender in the top ten financiers of fossil fuels between 2016 and 2022, with JPMorgan, Citi and Wells Fargo the three biggest, according to the NGO-authored Banking on Climate Chaos report. Credit Agricole also said it would triple its annual financing of renewable energy projects by 2030 to 3 billion euros ($3.3 billion) from 1 billion euros currently. It added it would hike by 80% its investment bank unit's exposure to low-carbon energies between 2020 and 2025, with the aim of reaching 13.3 billion euros. Credit Agricole's new goals are part of the so-called "net zero 2050 scenario", under which the world aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by the middle of the century. Environmental advocacy groups have criticised Credit Agricole for not doing enough to reduce its credit exposure to the oil and gas sectors, pressing the bank to increase transparency on these issues. Credit Agricole said it would report its total exposure to existing fossil extraction projects in which it is still committed in the first quarter of 2024. It added that, regarding its financing of energy companies, it would have no corporate financing of independent producers dedicated exclusively to the exploration or production of oil and gas. "In a context of climate emergency, we need to amplify our commitment towards measures supporting the transformation of society," Chief Executive Philippe Brassac said.

France's Credit Agricole to stop financing new fossil fuel projects

Harvard University's president Claudine Gay, who had courted controversy over the testimony she gave about antisemitism on campus, received unanimous backing from several hundred faculty members of the educational institution and will remain in her position, the institution's governing body released a statement saying on Tuesday (Dec 12).

“As members of the Harvard Corporation, we today reaffirm our support for President Gay’s continued leadership of Harvard University,” the Harvard Corporation, one of the university's two governing boards, said.

“Our extensive deliberations affirm our confidence that President Gay is the right leader to help our community heal and to address the very serious societal issues we are facing,” it added.

The Harvard Corporation announced the decision on Tuesday after the board's meeting concluded.

“In this tumultuous and difficult time, we unanimously stand in support of President Gay,” the Corporation added.

However, the body denounced the initial response by the university over the unprecedented attacks launched by the Palestinian militant group Hamas against Israel on Oct 7 which, as per Tel Aviv, has by far claimed the lives of 1,200 people and witnessed around 240 people taken hostage.

A petition was also signed by at least 570 professors and was given on Sunday evening to the 13-member Harvard Corporation, which has the power to make the final decision on President Gay's firing. More professors suggested that they also wanted to sign, according to a co-author of the petition.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nikki-haleys-prez-campaign-may-get-support-from-new-hampshir-governor-sununu-669004">Nikki Haley's prez campaign may get support from New Hampshire Governor Sununu</a>

"What they're arguing is that to remove her would essentially be bending to political pressure," said Megan Zahneis, Senior Reporter at the Chronicle of Higher Education.

<h2>President Gay under fire</h2>

Harvard University's president courted controversy for the testimony she delivered about antisemitism on campus.

Since the war between Israel and Hamas broke out in the West Bank, there has been a significant rise in the number of hate attacks and violent rhetoric targeting Jews and Muslims.

Such attacks have also been reported in the universities.

"So many people have suffered tremendous damage and pain because of Hamas's brutal terrorist attack, and the University's initial statement should have been an immediate, direct, and unequivocal condemnation," the corporation said.&nbsp;

"Calls for genocide are despicable and contrary to fundamental human values.&nbsp;

"President Gay has apologised for how she handled her congressional testimony."

(With inputs from agencies)

Harvard University's president Claudine Gay, who had courted controversy over the testimony she gave about antisemitism on campus, received unanimous backing from several hundred faculty members of the educational institution and will remain in her position, the institution's governing body released a statement saying on Tuesday (Dec 12).

Harvard University's president Claudine Gay, who had courted controversy over the testimony she gave about antisemitism on campus, received unanimous backing from several hundred faculty members of the educational institution and will remain in her position, the institution's governing body released a statement saying on Tuesday (Dec 12). “As members of the Harvard Corporation, we today reaffirm our support for President Gay’s continued leadership of Harvard University,” the Harvard Corporation, one of the university's two governing boards, said. “Our extensive deliberations affirm our confidence that President Gay is the right leader to help our community heal and to address the very serious societal issues we are facing,” it added. The Harvard Corporation announced the decision on Tuesday after the board's meeting concluded. “In this tumultuous and difficult time, we unanimously stand in support of President Gay,” the Corporation added. However, the body denounced the initial response by the university over the unprecedented attacks launched by the Palestinian militant group Hamas against Israel on Oct 7 which, as per Tel Aviv, has by far claimed the lives of 1,200 people and witnessed around 240 people taken hostage. A petition was also signed by at least 570 professors and was given on Sunday evening to the 13-member Harvard Corporation, which has the power to make the final decision on President Gay's firing. More professors suggested that they also wanted to sign, according to a co-author of the petition. Also read: Nikki Haley's prez campaign may get support from New Hampshire Governor Sununu "What they're arguing is that to remove her would essentially be bending to political pressure," said Megan Zahneis, Senior Reporter at the Chronicle of Higher Education. President Gay under fire Harvard University's president courted controversy for the testimony she delivered about antisemitism on campus. Since the war between Israel and Hamas broke out in the West Bank, there has been a significant rise in the number of hate attacks and violent rhetoric targeting Jews and Muslims. Such attacks have also been reported in the universities. "So many people have suffered tremendous damage and pain because of Hamas's brutal terrorist attack, and the University's initial statement should have been an immediate, direct, and unequivocal condemnation," the corporation said. "Calls for genocide are despicable and contrary to fundamental human values. "President Gay has apologised for how she handled her congressional testimony." (With inputs from agencies)

Harvard's president receives university board's backing amid antisemitism row

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