<p>Taylor Swift fans headed to her eagerly expected show in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday, following a last-minute postponement of Saturday’s performance due to record-breaking heat after a fan died in the sweltering conditions a day earlier.</p>

<p>Temperatures were significantly lower on Sunday following two days of record-breaking heat in Brazil’s second-largest city. Fans outside the Nilton Santos stadium were hopeful Sunday's show would go on as planned.</p>

<p>"There was the cancellation yesterday, I was a bit apprehensive about today, but I hope everything goes well. Today is not hot, it's cool. The expectation is high for everything to go well," said Iasmin Moreira Oliveira, in front of vendors hawking umbrellas and raincoats to protect from expected rain.</p>

<p>On the first night of Swift’s "The Eras Tour" in Rio on Friday, 23-year-old Ana Clara Benevides fell ill and later died in the hospital.</p>

<p>The tragedy led the federal government to order event organizer T4F to ensure water access at all of Swift's concerts in Brazil and issue a directive allowing water bottles to be brought into all concerts from now on.</p>

<p>T4F on Saturday said it would enhance its action plan for the event, particularly focusing on providing free water at queues and all stadium entrances and exits, allowing entry with sealed water cups, flexible plastic bottles, and sealed processed foods.</p>

<p>Saturday’s postponement, which Swift announced just two hours before she was to go on stage, angered many fans who had already made the journey to the stadium, some from different states and countries.</p>

<p>"There were people crying, people throwing tantrums, hoping it was all a lie, in short, it was terrible," said student Victor Guimaraes, who was waiting in line again on Sunday to watch the singer's performance.</p>

<p>In the face of scorching temperatures, Brazilian fan club Update Swift Brasil reached out to major water companies seeking donations to alleviate the conditions on-site. Fans were met with a positive response from Minalba Brasil, which distributed water bottles for free in the stadium area on Sunday.</p>

<p>"It was a donation from the company, moved by the events of the previous day and the heat wave," said Christina Larroude, marketing director of Minalba, adding that the initiative will be repeated at Monday's show, with a total delivery of 65 thousand water bottles.</p>

<p>Swift's Monday performance in Rio will replace Saturday's postponed show, and the singer is still scheduled to perform in Sao Paulo from Nov. 24 to 26.</p>

<p>Intense heat waves, attributed to the El Nino phenomenon and global temperature rises, have gripped multiple Brazilian states, with temperatures surpassing historical averages since July, according to the National Institute of Meteorology.</p>


Taylor Swift fans headed to her eagerly expected show in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday, following a last-minute postponement of Saturday’s performance due to record-breaking heat after a fan died in the sweltering conditions a day earlier.

Taylor Swift fans headed to her eagerly expected show in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday, following a last-minute postponement of Saturday’s performance due to record-breaking heat after a fan died in the sweltering conditions a day earlier. Temperatures were significantly lower on Sunday following two days of record-breaking heat in Brazil’s second-largest city. Fans outside the Nilton Santos stadium were hopeful Sunday's show would go on as planned. "There was the cancellation yesterday, I was a bit apprehensive about today, but I hope everything goes well. Today is not hot, it's cool. The expectation is high for everything to go well," said Iasmin Moreira Oliveira, in front of vendors hawking umbrellas and raincoats to protect from expected rain. On the first night of Swift’s "The Eras Tour" in Rio on Friday, 23-year-old Ana Clara Benevides fell ill and later died in the hospital. The tragedy led the federal government to order event organizer T4F to ensure water access at all of Swift's concerts in Brazil and issue a directive allowing water bottles to be brought into all concerts from now on. T4F on Saturday said it would enhance its action plan for the event, particularly focusing on providing free water at queues and all stadium entrances and exits, allowing entry with sealed water cups, flexible plastic bottles, and sealed processed foods. Saturday’s postponement, which Swift announced just two hours before she was to go on stage, angered many fans who had already made the journey to the stadium, some from different states and countries. "There were people crying, people throwing tantrums, hoping it was all a lie, in short, it was terrible," said student Victor Guimaraes, who was waiting in line again on Sunday to watch the singer's performance. In the face of scorching temperatures, Brazilian fan club Update Swift Brasil reached out to major water companies seeking donations to alleviate the conditions on-site. Fans were met with a positive response from Minalba Brasil, which distributed water bottles for free in the stadium area on Sunday. "It was a donation from the company, moved by the events of the previous day and the heat wave," said Christina Larroude, marketing director of Minalba, adding that the initiative will be repeated at Monday's show, with a total delivery of 65 thousand water bottles. Swift's Monday performance in Rio will replace Saturday's postponed show, and the singer is still scheduled to perform in Sao Paulo from Nov. 24 to 26. Intense heat waves, attributed to the El Nino phenomenon and global temperature rises, have gripped multiple Brazilian states, with temperatures surpassing historical averages since July, according to the National Institute of Meteorology.

Taylor Swift fans gather for cooler Rio show after fan’s death

<p>Canadian MP Chandra Arya on Monday (Nov 20) warned of a possible threat at the Hindu Laxmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey while sharing a video of pro-Khalistani backers.</p>

<p>Taking to his official X account, Arya urged Canadian authorities to look into the matter and take stern action against the ones abusing freedom of speech and expression.</p>

<p>He wrote, "Last week, Khalistan supporters verbally abused a Sikh family outside a Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, BC, according to some reports. Now it appears the same Khalistan group wants to create trouble at the Hindu Laxmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey."</p>

<p>"All these are being done in the name of freedom of speech and expression. Like a broken record, I am again asking Canadian authorities to step in and take action," he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Last week Khalistan supporters verbally abused a Sikh family outside a Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey BC according to some reports.<br />
Now it appears the same Khalistan group want to create trouble at the Hindu Laxmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey.<br />
All these are being done in the name of… <a href="https://t.co/szTznICBo0">https://t.co/szTznICBo0</a></p>
— Chandra Arya (@AryaCanada) <a href="https://twitter.com/AryaCanada/status/1726642274379915312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Emphasising how Hindu temples were being attacked in the country over the past years to spread unrest, Arya said, "Hindu temples have been attacked many times during the last couple of years. Hate crimes are being committed against Hindu-Canadians."</p>

<p>"Allowing these things to continue to be done openly and publicly is not acceptable," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-reportedly-said-government-should-let-people-die-covid-inquiry-hears-660932">UK PM Rishi Sunak reportedly said government should 'let people die', COVID inquiry hears</a></p>

<p>Earlier, Arya had claimed that extremist elements were “attacking” and “threatening” the Hindu community residing in Canada to go back to India.</p>

<p>He then urged all the Hindu-Canadians to stay vigilant and report any unforeseen incident to law enforcement agencies.</p>

<h2><strong>'Hindu Canadians considered soft targets'</strong></h2>

<p>Arya had claimed that the Hindu Canadians were considered soft targets in the country.</p>

<p>“Two well-organised groups claiming to represent their faiths have been attacking Hindu-Canadian community leaders, Hindu organisations and even me. For over 10 months, I have been attacked for raising a flag with our Hindu religious sacred symbol Aum on our parliament hill,” he stated.</p>

<p>“As Canadians, we can be proud of our Hindu faith and heritage and our impressive contribution to the socio-economic success of our country Canada,” he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Canadian MP Chandra Arya on Monday (Nov 20) warned of a possible threat at the Hindu Laxmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey while sharing a video of pro-Khalistani backers.

Canadian MP Chandra Arya on Monday (Nov 20) warned of a possible threat at the Hindu Laxmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey while sharing a video of pro-Khalistani backers. Taking to his official X account, Arya urged Canadian authorities to look into the matter and take stern action against the ones abusing freedom of speech and expression. He wrote, "Last week, Khalistan supporters verbally abused a Sikh family outside a Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, BC, according to some reports. Now it appears the same Khalistan group wants to create trouble at the Hindu Laxmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey." "All these are being done in the name of freedom of speech and expression. Like a broken record, I am again asking Canadian authorities to step in and take action," he added. Last week Khalistan supporters verbally abused a Sikh family outside a Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey BC according to some reports. Now it appears the same Khalistan group want to create trouble at the Hindu Laxmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey. All these are being done in the name of… https://t.co/szTznICBo0 — Chandra Arya (@AryaCanada) November 20, 2023 × Emphasising how Hindu temples were being attacked in the country over the past years to spread unrest, Arya said, "Hindu temples have been attacked many times during the last couple of years. Hate crimes are being committed against Hindu-Canadians." "Allowing these things to continue to be done openly and publicly is not acceptable," he said. Also read: UK PM Rishi Sunak reportedly said government should 'let people die', COVID inquiry hears Earlier, Arya had claimed that extremist elements were “attacking” and “threatening” the Hindu community residing in Canada to go back to India. He then urged all the Hindu-Canadians to stay vigilant and report any unforeseen incident to law enforcement agencies. 'Hindu Canadians considered soft targets' Arya had claimed that the Hindu Canadians were considered soft targets in the country. “Two well-organised groups claiming to represent their faiths have been attacking Hindu-Canadian community leaders, Hindu organisations and even me. For over 10 months, I have been attacked for raising a flag with our Hindu religious sacred symbol Aum on our parliament hill,” he stated. “As Canadians, we can be proud of our Hindu faith and heritage and our impressive contribution to the socio-economic success of our country Canada,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian MP Chandra Arya asks authorities to take action as Khalistan supporters issue threat to temples

<p>Indian business tycoon, Ashneer Grover,&nbsp;the former co-founder and managing director (MD) of the Indian fintech company BharatPe,&nbsp;and his wife were stopped at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport on Thursday night (Nov 17).</p>

<p>The two were travelling to New York for vacation and were stopped by the EOW amid an ongoing investigation against them for alleged fraud at BharatPe.</p>

<p>Grover had co-founded the company along with Shashvat Nakrani and Bhavik Koladiya in the year 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Born in Delhi, Grover's father was a Chartered Accountant (CA) and his mother was a teacher. After completing his elementary education, he graduated with a Bachelor of Technology (B Tech) in civil engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi.</p>

<p>He later completed his Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad in 2006.</p>

<p>Grover rose to fame after he appeared as a judge in Shark Tank India's maiden season.</p>

<p>Last year, he also released his memoir called <em>Doglapan (double standards) - The Hard Truth about Life and Start-ups</em>.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/embattled-bharatpe-co-founder-ashneer-grover-aanounces-mercedes-as-bonus-for-his-new-startups-employees-551505">Embattled BharatPe co-founder Ashneer Grover anounces Mercedes as bonus for his new startup's employees</a></p>

<h2><strong>Controversies surrounding Grover</strong></h2>

<p>The latest in a spate of controversies surrounding the business tycoon is him and his wife being stopped at the IGI&nbsp;Airport in Delhi on Thursday night (Nov 17).</p>

<p>The two were headed to New York for a vacation when they&nbsp;were stopped by the Economic Offences Wing amid an ongoing investigation against them for alleged fraud at BharatPe.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/bharatpe-sacks-ashneer-grovers-wife-over-misappropriation-of-funds-455770"> </a></strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/bharatpe-sacks-ashneer-grovers-wife-over-misappropriation-of-funds-455770">BharatPe sacks Ashneer Grover's wife over 'misappropriation of funds'</a></p>

<p>Sindhu Pillai, joint commissioner of the EOW, said Grover and Jain were detained before the security check and were asked to return to their residence in Delhi and join the investigation at the EOW office at Mandir Marg next week.</p>

<p>Earlier this week, a lookout circular (LoC) was issued against the two. Pillai said LoC was issued only to detain the couple from travelling overseas, adding they were not arrested.</p>

<p>On May 11, the EOW registered a case against Grover, Jain and other family members for using company funds inappropriately, based on forged documents.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian business tycoon, Ashneer Grover, the former co-founder and managing director (MD) of the Indian fintech company BharatPe, and his wife were stopped at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport on Thursday night (Nov 17).

Indian business tycoon, Ashneer Grover, the former co-founder and managing director (MD) of the Indian fintech company BharatPe, and his wife were stopped at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport on Thursday night (Nov 17). The two were travelling to New York for vacation and were stopped by the EOW amid an ongoing investigation against them for alleged fraud at BharatPe. Grover had co-founded the company along with Shashvat Nakrani and Bhavik Koladiya in the year 2018. Born in Delhi, Grover's father was a Chartered Accountant (CA) and his mother was a teacher. After completing his elementary education, he graduated with a Bachelor of Technology (B Tech) in civil engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi. He later completed his Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad in 2006. Grover rose to fame after he appeared as a judge in Shark Tank India's maiden season. Last year, he also released his memoir called Doglapan (double standards) - The Hard Truth about Life and Start-ups. Also read: Embattled BharatPe co-founder Ashneer Grover anounces Mercedes as bonus for his new startup's employees Controversies surrounding Grover The latest in a spate of controversies surrounding the business tycoon is him and his wife being stopped at the IGI Airport in Delhi on Thursday night (Nov 17). The two were headed to New York for a vacation when they were stopped by the Economic Offences Wing amid an ongoing investigation against them for alleged fraud at BharatPe. Also read: BharatPe sacks Ashneer Grover's wife over 'misappropriation of funds' Sindhu Pillai, joint commissioner of the EOW, said Grover and Jain were detained before the security check and were asked to return to their residence in Delhi and join the investigation at the EOW office at Mandir Marg next week. Earlier this week, a lookout circular (LoC) was issued against the two. Pillai said LoC was issued only to detain the couple from travelling overseas, adding they were not arrested. On May 11, the EOW registered a case against Grover, Jain and other family members for using company funds inappropriately, based on forged documents. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Ashneer Grover? Famous 'Shark Tank India' judge who has been controversy's favourite child

Songs That Will Instantly Give You The Self Love Boost

This track by Alessia Cara is a gentle reminder to accept and love yourself for who you are.

This song by Lizzo is a full-on self-love booster for when you need it the most.


This track by Taylor Swift is a musical celebration of 'ME'.


This song by Jessie J beautifully teaches us to embrace our flaws and love ourselves for who we are.

What a powerful track to uplift your confidence on the days when you hit rock bottom!


<p>The White House condemned billionaire Elon Musk on Friday (Nov 17) over the "abhorrent promotion" of antisemitism.</p>

<p>White House spokesman Andrew Bates, referring to a post by Tesla CEO on his social media platform X, where Musk endorsed an antisemitic conspiracy theory, said that it was "unacceptable" to repeat such a "hideous lie."</p>

<p>"We condemn this abhorrent promotion of anti-semitic and racist hate in the strongest terms, which runs against our core values as Americans," Bates said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We all have a responsibility to bring people together against hate, and an obligation to speak out against anyone who attacks the dignity of their fellow Americans and compromises the safety of our communities," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moldovan-presidents-dog-bites-visiting-austrian-president-on-the-hand-overturns-protocol-659841">Moldovan President's dog bites visiting Austrian President on the hand, overturns protocol</a></p>

<p>Musk had reacted to an antisemitic post on X saying, "You have said the actual truth".</p>

<p>The original post has been perceived by the White House and the US media as a reference to a longtime conspiracy theory among White supremacists which says that the Jews have this top-secret plan of bringing in illegal immigrants in order to weaken the white majority.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-highlights-threats-posed-by-deep-fake-urges-media-to-educate-people-on-ai-659713">PM Modi cautions against misuse of AI, cites his morphed Garba video</a></p>

<p>It is pertinent to note that this idea was endorsed by the assailant who opened fire at a synagogue in Pittsburgh in 2018 and claimed the lives of at least 11 people.</p>

<p>"It is unacceptable to repeat the hideous lie behind the most fatal act of antisemitism in American history at any time, let alone one month after the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust," Bates said, referring to the October 7 assault by Palestinian militant group Hamas on Israel.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The White House condemned billionaire Elon Musk on Friday (Nov 17) over the "abhorrent promotion" of antisemitism. White House spokesman Andrew Bates, referring to a post by Tesla CEO on his social media platform X, where Musk endorsed an antisemitic conspiracy theory, said that it was "unacceptable" to repeat such a "hideous lie.

The White House condemned billionaire Elon Musk on Friday (Nov 17) over the "abhorrent promotion" of antisemitism. White House spokesman Andrew Bates, referring to a post by Tesla CEO on his social media platform X, where Musk endorsed an antisemitic conspiracy theory, said that it was "unacceptable" to repeat such a "hideous lie." "We condemn this abhorrent promotion of anti-semitic and racist hate in the strongest terms, which runs against our core values as Americans," Bates said. "We all have a responsibility to bring people together against hate, and an obligation to speak out against anyone who attacks the dignity of their fellow Americans and compromises the safety of our communities," he added. Also read: Moldovan President's dog bites visiting Austrian President on the hand, overturns protocol Musk had reacted to an antisemitic post on X saying, "You have said the actual truth". The original post has been perceived by the White House and the US media as a reference to a longtime conspiracy theory among White supremacists which says that the Jews have this top-secret plan of bringing in illegal immigrants in order to weaken the white majority. Also read: PM Modi cautions against misuse of AI, cites his morphed Garba video It is pertinent to note that this idea was endorsed by the assailant who opened fire at a synagogue in Pittsburgh in 2018 and claimed the lives of at least 11 people. "It is unacceptable to repeat the hideous lie behind the most fatal act of antisemitism in American history at any time, let alone one month after the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust," Bates said, referring to the October 7 assault by Palestinian militant group Hamas on Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

White House condemns Elon Musk for 'abhorrent promotion' of antisemitism

<p>The rare discovery of vibrant cosmic-ray electrons is helping scientists find out where these mysterious particles originated from.</p>

<p>This study using the CALorimetric Electron Telescope (CALET), a Japan-led international mission funded by the Japanese Space Agency (JAXA) in collaboration with the Italian Space Agency (ASI), NASA and several universities in Japan, Italy, and the United States, will contribute to a better understanding of how the universe functions.</p>

<p>Since 2015, more than 7 million particles have struck the CALorimetric Electron Telescope (CALET) pinned to the expansive back of the International Space Station.</p>

<p>This extensive cluster has given scientists a potent dataset that, they say, indicates at least one nearby source of cosmic-ray electrons.</p>

<p>"The most exciting part is seeing things at the highest energies," says astrophysicist Nicholas Cannady of the University of Maryland Baltimore County, and member of the CALET Collaboration led by astrophysicist Shoji Torii of the University of Waseda in Japan.</p>

<p>"We have some candidates above 10 teraelectronvolts – and if it is borne out that these are real electron events, it's really a smoking gun for clear evidence of a nearby source."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/like-a-meteorite-new-footage-reveals-russian-missile-with-nuclear-capable-glide-vehicle-loaded-in-silo-659741">Russian 'meteorite' missile with nuclear-capable glide vehicle loaded in silo</a></p>

<h2><strong>Energetic sources</strong></h2>

<p>Scientists believe that the origin of such particles could possibly be via energetic sources.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the possible sources, as per the scientists, could be supernova remnants, which spur the particles pushing them through outer space, but there is a possibility for other sources too.</p>

<p>The other, as per the study published in Physical Review Letters, is related to the theoretical annihilation of dark matter.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-defence-ministry-a-house-of-sexual-abuse-damning-letter-reveals-shocking-details-659736">UK defence ministry a house of sexual abuse? Damning letter reveals shocking details</a></p>

<p>Some of the high-energy electron sensors also suffer from interference from fast-flying protons.</p>

<p>"These CALET observations open the tantalizing possibility that matter from a particular nearby supernova remnant can be measured at Earth," says physicist T. Gregory Guzik of Louisiana State University, leader of the US branch of the CALET Collaboration.</p>

<p>"Continued CALET measurement through the life of the International Space Station will help shed new light on the origin and transport of relativistic matter in our galaxy."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The rare discovery of vibrant cosmic-ray electrons is helping scientists find out where these mysterious particles originated from. This study using the CALorimetric Electron Telescope (CALET), a Japan-led international mission funded by the Japanese Space Agency (JAXA) in collaboration with the Italian Space Agency (ASI), NASA and several universities in Japan, Italy, and the United States, will contribute to a better understanding of how the universe functions.

The rare discovery of vibrant cosmic-ray electrons is helping scientists find out where these mysterious particles originated from. This study using the CALorimetric Electron Telescope (CALET), a Japan-led international mission funded by the Japanese Space Agency (JAXA) in collaboration with the Italian Space Agency (ASI), NASA and several universities in Japan, Italy, and the United States, will contribute to a better understanding of how the universe functions. Since 2015, more than 7 million particles have struck the CALorimetric Electron Telescope (CALET) pinned to the expansive back of the International Space Station. This extensive cluster has given scientists a potent dataset that, they say, indicates at least one nearby source of cosmic-ray electrons. "The most exciting part is seeing things at the highest energies," says astrophysicist Nicholas Cannady of the University of Maryland Baltimore County, and member of the CALET Collaboration led by astrophysicist Shoji Torii of the University of Waseda in Japan. "We have some candidates above 10 teraelectronvolts – and if it is borne out that these are real electron events, it's really a smoking gun for clear evidence of a nearby source." Also read: Russian 'meteorite' missile with nuclear-capable glide vehicle loaded in silo Energetic sources Scientists believe that the origin of such particles could possibly be via energetic sources. One of the possible sources, as per the scientists, could be supernova remnants, which spur the particles pushing them through outer space, but there is a possibility for other sources too. The other, as per the study published in Physical Review Letters, is related to the theoretical annihilation of dark matter. Also read: UK defence ministry a house of sexual abuse? Damning letter reveals shocking details Some of the high-energy electron sensors also suffer from interference from fast-flying protons. "These CALET observations open the tantalizing possibility that matter from a particular nearby supernova remnant can be measured at Earth," says physicist T. Gregory Guzik of Louisiana State University, leader of the US branch of the CALET Collaboration. "Continued CALET measurement through the life of the International Space Station will help shed new light on the origin and transport of relativistic matter in our galaxy." (With inputs from agencies)

Enigmatic cosmic ray electrons indicate rare source, to help study how universe functions

<p>India's Chhattisgarh on Friday (Nov 17) recorded 67.34 per cent voter turnout till 5 pm in its second phase of state assembly polls, the Election Commission (EC) said.</p>

<p>As per the data released by the election body, Ambikapur recorded a voter turnout of 65.05 per cent and Bharatpur Sonhat recorded 67.94 per cent, whereas Bilaspur recorded 56.28 per cent. The maximum voter turnout, till 5 pm IST, &nbsp;was recorded at 82.60 per cent in the Kurud constituency.</p>

<p>EC said that this was the very first time all the polling booths in the Raipur North Assembly Constituency in Chhattisgarh were staffed and managed completely by women polling personnel.</p>

<p>Voter turnout in the Indian state was recorded at 55.31 per cent at 3 pm.</p>

<p>The second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh began in 70 Assembly constituencies spread over 22 districts in the State.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-highlights-threats-posed-by-deep-fake-urges-media-to-educate-people-on-ai-659713">PM Modi cautions against misuse of AI, cites his morphed Garba video</a></p>

<p>Approximately 958 candidates are in this fierce battle across 70 seats, for which the polling is being currently held.</p>

<p>In this first phase of the voting, which was held on Nov 7, the voter turnout was recorded at 70.87 per cent.</p>

<p>In Chhattisgarh, the polling will decide the fate of former Chief Minister Raman Singh and BJP leaders Bhawna Bohra, Lata Usendi and Gautam Uike. The notable Congress leaders in the battle in this phase include Mohammad Akbar, Savitri Manoj Mandavi, Mohan Markam, Vikram Mandavi and Kawasi Lakhma.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Madhya Pradesh sees 71.16 pc polling</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh recorded a voter turnout of &nbsp;71.16 per cent at 5 pm.</p>

<p>At 3 pm, the percentage was recorded at 60.52.</p>

<p>Voting for 230 Assembly seats in Madhya Pradesh began at 7 am on Friday (Nov 17).</p>

<p>Nearly 5.59 crore voters are eligible to exercise their franchise. It includes 2.87 crore male and 2.71 crore women voters. There are over 5,000 booths run by women and 183 polling stations run by the disabled, according to the officials.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's Chhattisgarh on Friday (Nov 17) recorded 67.34 per cent voter turnout till 5 pm in its second phase of state assembly polls, the Election Commission (EC) said.

India's Chhattisgarh on Friday (Nov 17) recorded 67.34 per cent voter turnout till 5 pm in its second phase of state assembly polls, the Election Commission (EC) said. As per the data released by the election body, Ambikapur recorded a voter turnout of 65.05 per cent and Bharatpur Sonhat recorded 67.94 per cent, whereas Bilaspur recorded 56.28 per cent. The maximum voter turnout, till 5 pm IST, was recorded at 82.60 per cent in the Kurud constituency. EC said that this was the very first time all the polling booths in the Raipur North Assembly Constituency in Chhattisgarh were staffed and managed completely by women polling personnel. Voter turnout in the Indian state was recorded at 55.31 per cent at 3 pm. The second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh began in 70 Assembly constituencies spread over 22 districts in the State. Also read: PM Modi cautions against misuse of AI, cites his morphed Garba video Approximately 958 candidates are in this fierce battle across 70 seats, for which the polling is being currently held. In this first phase of the voting, which was held on Nov 7, the voter turnout was recorded at 70.87 per cent. In Chhattisgarh, the polling will decide the fate of former Chief Minister Raman Singh and BJP leaders Bhawna Bohra, Lata Usendi and Gautam Uike. The notable Congress leaders in the battle in this phase include Mohammad Akbar, Savitri Manoj Mandavi, Mohan Markam, Vikram Mandavi and Kawasi Lakhma. Madhya Pradesh sees 71.16 pc polling Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh recorded a voter turnout of 71.16 per cent at 5 pm. At 3 pm, the percentage was recorded at 60.52. Voting for 230 Assembly seats in Madhya Pradesh began at 7 am on Friday (Nov 17). Nearly 5.59 crore voters are eligible to exercise their franchise. It includes 2.87 crore male and 2.71 crore women voters. There are over 5,000 booths run by women and 183 polling stations run by the disabled, according to the officials. (With inputs from agencies)

India assembly polls: Chhattisgarh records 67.34 pc voter turnout

<p>Moldovan President Maia Sandu's dog on Thursday (Nov 16) bit on the hand of visiting Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen and overturned the protocol.</p>

<p>As per Moldovan media reports, the incident took place when the two leaders were on a stroll in the courtyard of the presidential residence and Van der Bellen tried to pet the rescued pooch named Codrut, which means small forest.</p>

<p>Sandu apologised for his pet dog's actions and said that it had become frightened after witnessing a large crowd nearby. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s many people,” she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Van Der Bellen could be seen covering his hand in a bandage in a subsequent meeting with the speaker of Moldova's parliament.</p>

<p>Bellen took to his official Instagram account on Friday and shared a video talking about the incident where he said, “Everyone who knows me knows I’m a big dog lover and can understand his excitement.”&nbsp;</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further added that his meeting with Sandu and other officials went “very good”.</p>

<p>Sandu had adopted Codrut in early 2023 after it was hit by a car. The dog had lost one of its legs in the accident.</p>

<p>“Codrut has been part of our team at the Presidency for about 7 months after he was found in the street hit by a car. Unfortunately, we were not able to save his paw, but after a few months of treatment, he is now running happily on 3 legs,” she wrote on Instagram.</p>

<p>Van der Bellen and Musar were in Chisinau where they held talks on Moldova’s bid to join the European Union.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In June 2023, the country was granted candidate status along with Ukraine.</p>

<p>“Delighted to welcome presidents Van der Bellen of Austria and Musar of Slovenia to Chisinau today,” Sandu wrote on X. “Our discussions highlighted strong support for Moldova’s EU path, marking a significant moment in our journey towards European accession.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Moldovan President Maia Sandu's dog on Thursday (Nov 16) bit on the hand of visiting Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen and overturned the protocol. As per Moldovan media reports, the incident took place when the two leaders were on a stroll in the courtyard of the presidential residence and Van der Bellen tried to pet the rescued pooch named Codrut, which means small forest.

Moldovan President Maia Sandu's dog on Thursday (Nov 16) bit on the hand of visiting Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen and overturned the protocol. As per Moldovan media reports, the incident took place when the two leaders were on a stroll in the courtyard of the presidential residence and Van der Bellen tried to pet the rescued pooch named Codrut, which means small forest. Sandu apologised for his pet dog's actions and said that it had become frightened after witnessing a large crowd nearby. “It’s many people,” she said. Van Der Bellen could be seen covering his hand in a bandage in a subsequent meeting with the speaker of Moldova's parliament. Bellen took to his official Instagram account on Friday and shared a video talking about the incident where he said, “Everyone who knows me knows I’m a big dog lover and can understand his excitement.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alexander Van der Bellen (@vanderbellen) × He further added that his meeting with Sandu and other officials went “very good”. Sandu had adopted Codrut in early 2023 after it was hit by a car. The dog had lost one of its legs in the accident. “Codrut has been part of our team at the Presidency for about 7 months after he was found in the street hit by a car. Unfortunately, we were not able to save his paw, but after a few months of treatment, he is now running happily on 3 legs,” she wrote on Instagram. Van der Bellen and Musar were in Chisinau where they held talks on Moldova’s bid to join the European Union. In June 2023, the country was granted candidate status along with Ukraine. “Delighted to welcome presidents Van der Bellen of Austria and Musar of Slovenia to Chisinau today,” Sandu wrote on X. “Our discussions highlighted strong support for Moldova’s EU path, marking a significant moment in our journey towards European accession.” (With inputs from agencies)

Moldovan President's dog bites visiting Austrian President on the hand, overturns protocol

<p>In the latest update from the ongoing rescue operation for 40 workers trapped inside a collapsed under-construction tunnel in India's Uttarakhand, a loud&nbsp;'cracking sound' led to its&nbsp;cessation on Friday evening (Nov 17).</p>

<p>Before this, National Highways &amp; Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) Director Anshu Manish Khalkho had reported a delay, stating the fragile nature of the location as the reason behind it.</p>

<p>During a press briefing, &nbsp;Khalkho said, "Where you feel the fragile nature and vibration needs to be taken care of equilibrium also has to be maintained. So this needs to be done very precisely. We also have to take care of the morale of people trapped inside and as well as the rescue team outside."</p>

<p>When asked about what time trapped labourers will be able to sustain, Khalkho said, "Without food, a man can survive for six days. Here food and water are provided so from physical health to mental health of the workers is fine. We are communicating with them, and now doctors from the administration have reached out to counsel them."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-highlights-threats-posed-by-deep-fake-urges-media-to-educate-people-on-ai-659713">PM Modi cautions against misuse of AI, cites his morphed Garba video</a></p>

<h2><strong>Rescuers bore through 24 metres of rubble</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, Khalkho had said that the rescuers had bored through 24 metres of rubble inside the Silkyara Tunnel.</p>

<p>"We have reached 24 metres inside which is a good situation. We are trying to reach the other end as soon as possible...We are airlifting another machine from Indore, it will reach here tomorrow morning."&nbsp;</p>

<p>National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel who are at the site also carried out a mock drill of a "possible evacuation through the 900mm wide steel pipes".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-assembly-polls-chhattisgarh-records-6734-pc-voter-turnout-659801">India assembly polls: Chhattisgarh records 67.34 pc voter turnout</a></p>

<p>"The American auger is a highly advanced drilling machine. Four pipes have been already inserted and welding for the fifth one is underway. We will rescue all the labourers," Uttarkashi Superintendant of Police Arpan Yadavanshi said this morning.</p>

<p>The police official stated that the technical workers were making all the efforts to rescue the stranded labourers.</p>

<p>"SDRF, NDRF, Police, medical workers, fire service, everyone is working in co-ordination to safely rescue the labourers. We are also conducting a mock drill to provide medical aid to them as soon as they are rescued," SP Yadavanshi said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In the latest update from the ongoing rescue operation for 40 workers trapped inside a collapsed under-construction tunnel in India's Uttarakhand, a loud 'cracking sound' led to its cessation on Friday evening (Nov 17).

In the latest update from the ongoing rescue operation for 40 workers trapped inside a collapsed under-construction tunnel in India's Uttarakhand, a loud 'cracking sound' led to its cessation on Friday evening (Nov 17). Before this, National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) Director Anshu Manish Khalkho had reported a delay, stating the fragile nature of the location as the reason behind it. During a press briefing, Khalkho said, "Where you feel the fragile nature and vibration needs to be taken care of equilibrium also has to be maintained. So this needs to be done very precisely. We also have to take care of the morale of people trapped inside and as well as the rescue team outside." When asked about what time trapped labourers will be able to sustain, Khalkho said, "Without food, a man can survive for six days. Here food and water are provided so from physical health to mental health of the workers is fine. We are communicating with them, and now doctors from the administration have reached out to counsel them." Also read: PM Modi cautions against misuse of AI, cites his morphed Garba video Rescuers bore through 24 metres of rubble Earlier, Khalkho had said that the rescuers had bored through 24 metres of rubble inside the Silkyara Tunnel. "We have reached 24 metres inside which is a good situation. We are trying to reach the other end as soon as possible...We are airlifting another machine from Indore, it will reach here tomorrow morning." National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel who are at the site also carried out a mock drill of a "possible evacuation through the 900mm wide steel pipes". Also read: India assembly polls: Chhattisgarh records 67.34 pc voter turnout "The American auger is a highly advanced drilling machine. Four pipes have been already inserted and welding for the fifth one is underway. We will rescue all the labourers," Uttarkashi Superintendant of Police Arpan Yadavanshi said this morning. The police official stated that the technical workers were making all the efforts to rescue the stranded labourers. "SDRF, NDRF, Police, medical workers, fire service, everyone is working in co-ordination to safely rescue the labourers. We are also conducting a mock drill to provide medical aid to them as soon as they are rescued," SP Yadavanshi said. (With inputs from agencies)

Uttarkashi tunnel collapse: Delay in rescue operation, officials blame 'fragile' nature of location

<p>The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Thursday (Nov 16) announced a nationwide strike for 48 hours beginning from Sunday (Nov 19) in order to protest against the decision taken by the Election Commission (EC) for the next general elections due on January 7, 2024, as per local media reports.</p>

<p>BNP's Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi made the announcement at a virtual media briefing on Wednesday evening.</p>

<p>The closure will start at 6 am on Sunday (Nov 19) and will conclude at 6 pm on Tuesday (Nov 21).</p>

<p>Rizvi further said that this strike was also aimed at mounting pressure on the government to step down on giving power to a neutral government and free the arrested BNP leaders and workers, including its secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.</p>

<p>Other opposition parties like Gono Odhikar Parishad and Labour Party also announced to enforce a 48-hour strike during the same period.</p>

<p>"Everybody in Bangladesh knows the outcome of this election," Abdul Moyeen Khan, member of the highest policy-making body of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), told news agency Reuters on Thursday.</p>

<p>"What's the point in becoming a part of that drama? There is no point in going to a meaningless election. Democracy is dead in Bangladesh."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttarkashi-tunnel-collapse-heavy-duty-drilling-machine-begins-creating-escape-passage-659399">Uttarkashi tunnel collapse: Drilling machine begins creating escape passage</a></p>

<p>Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal, on Wednesday (Nov 15), in a televised speech announced that the general elections in Bangladesh will be held on January 7, 2024.</p>

<h2><strong>Violent protests in Bangladesh&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The announcement came amid violent protests&nbsp;staged by opposition parties demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for a caretaker government to take over.</p>

<p>Since October 28, at least four people, including a policeman, were killed and hundreds injured in violent protests.</p>

<p>Local media reports stated that around 8,000 opposition leaders and activists, including BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, have been arrested in a nationwide crackdown.</p>

<p>Hasina has tightly ruled the South Asian country since coming to power in 2009. However, her rule has been widely criticised for human rights violations, cracking down on free speech and suppressing dissent while jailing her critics.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Thursday (Nov 16) announced a nationwide strike for 48 hours beginning from Sunday (Nov 19) in order to protest against the decision taken by the Election Commission (EC) for the next general elections due on January 7, 2024, as per local media reports.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Thursday (Nov 16) announced a nationwide strike for 48 hours beginning from Sunday (Nov 19) in order to protest against the decision taken by the Election Commission (EC) for the next general elections due on January 7, 2024, as per local media reports. BNP's Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi made the announcement at a virtual media briefing on Wednesday evening. The closure will start at 6 am on Sunday (Nov 19) and will conclude at 6 pm on Tuesday (Nov 21). Rizvi further said that this strike was also aimed at mounting pressure on the government to step down on giving power to a neutral government and free the arrested BNP leaders and workers, including its secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. Other opposition parties like Gono Odhikar Parishad and Labour Party also announced to enforce a 48-hour strike during the same period. "Everybody in Bangladesh knows the outcome of this election," Abdul Moyeen Khan, member of the highest policy-making body of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), told news agency Reuters on Thursday. "What's the point in becoming a part of that drama? There is no point in going to a meaningless election. Democracy is dead in Bangladesh." Also read: Uttarkashi tunnel collapse: Drilling machine begins creating escape passage Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal, on Wednesday (Nov 15), in a televised speech announced that the general elections in Bangladesh will be held on January 7, 2024. Violent protests in Bangladesh The announcement came amid violent protests staged by opposition parties demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for a caretaker government to take over. Since October 28, at least four people, including a policeman, were killed and hundreds injured in violent protests. Local media reports stated that around 8,000 opposition leaders and activists, including BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, have been arrested in a nationwide crackdown. Hasina has tightly ruled the South Asian country since coming to power in 2009. However, her rule has been widely criticised for human rights violations, cracking down on free speech and suppressing dissent while jailing her critics. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh opposition parties call 48-hour nationwide strike, demand cancellation of polls

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Nov 17) highlighted the threats posed by artificial intelligence (AI) and the way it was wrongfully deployed in today's digital age to create 'deep fakes'. He cited the example of his own deep fake videos circulating online.</p>

<p>He further said that the media should educate people about the emerging global crisis and get a better understanding of the tool that could be deliberately used to disseminate disinformation.</p>

<p>PM Modi while speaking to the media personnel at a&nbsp;Diwali Milan programme, raised concerns about the dangers of deep fakes in digital media.</p>

<p>"I recently saw a video in which I was seen singing a Garba song. There are many other such videos online," said PM Modi further adding that the imminent menace of deepfakes has turned into a prominent crisis and can create a lot of issues for all of us.</p>

<p>He revealed that he has asked OpenAI's ChatGPT to include deepfake warnings in the content, further cautioning that&nbsp;everyone should make use of the high-tech tool&nbsp;responsibly.</p>

<p>"During the times of artificial intelligence, it is important that technology should be used responsibly," he said.</p>

<p>The Indian government said that the creation and circulation of deepfakes carry a strong penalty: a 100,000 rupees fine and three years imprisonment.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-five-terrorists-killed-in-kulgam-operation-seven-terrorists-killed-in-last-48-hours-659617">India: Five terrorists killed in Kulgam operation; seven terrorists killed in last 48 hours</a></p>

<h2><strong>Centre issues advisory to social media firms</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, the Centre issued an advisory to social media firms, including X, Instagram and Facebook, calling all these giants to remove morphed images within 24 hours.</p>

<p>"IT Intermediary Rules: Rule 3(1)(b)(vii): Social media intermediary shall observe due diligence including ensuring the rules and regulations, privacy policy or user agreement of the intermediary inform users not to host any content that impersonates another person," sources said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-eam-jaishankar-discusses-pro-khalistani-extremism-with-uk-leaders-659411">India's EAM Jaishankar discusses pro-Khalistani extremism with UK leaders</a></p>

<p>"Rule 3(2)(b): Intermediary shall, within 24 hours from the receipt of a complaint in relation to any content ... in the nature of impersonation in an electronic form, including artificially morphed images of such individuals, take all .. measures to remove or disable access to such content," it added.</p>

<p>Deepfakes are used to intentionally disseminate disinformation or they may have a malicious intent behind their use. They can be manipulated to harass, intimidate, demean and undermine people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The videos with morphed faces of actors Rashmika Mandanna, Katrina Kaif and Kajol had surfaced on the internet earlier, sparking huge outrage.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Nov 17) highlighted the threats posed by artificial intelligence (AI) and the way it was wrongfully deployed in today's digital age to create 'deep fakes'.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Nov 17) highlighted the threats posed by artificial intelligence (AI) and the way it was wrongfully deployed in today's digital age to create 'deep fakes'. He cited the example of his own deep fake videos circulating online. He further said that the media should educate people about the emerging global crisis and get a better understanding of the tool that could be deliberately used to disseminate disinformation. PM Modi while speaking to the media personnel at a Diwali Milan programme, raised concerns about the dangers of deep fakes in digital media. "I recently saw a video in which I was seen singing a Garba song. There are many other such videos online," said PM Modi further adding that the imminent menace of deepfakes has turned into a prominent crisis and can create a lot of issues for all of us. He revealed that he has asked OpenAI's ChatGPT to include deepfake warnings in the content, further cautioning that everyone should make use of the high-tech tool responsibly. "During the times of artificial intelligence, it is important that technology should be used responsibly," he said. The Indian government said that the creation and circulation of deepfakes carry a strong penalty: a 100,000 rupees fine and three years imprisonment. Also read: India: Five terrorists killed in Kulgam operation; seven terrorists killed in last 48 hours Centre issues advisory to social media firms Earlier, the Centre issued an advisory to social media firms, including X, Instagram and Facebook, calling all these giants to remove morphed images within 24 hours. "IT Intermediary Rules: Rule 3(1)(b)(vii): Social media intermediary shall observe due diligence including ensuring the rules and regulations, privacy policy or user agreement of the intermediary inform users not to host any content that impersonates another person," sources said. Also read: India's EAM Jaishankar discusses pro-Khalistani extremism with UK leaders "Rule 3(2)(b): Intermediary shall, within 24 hours from the receipt of a complaint in relation to any content ... in the nature of impersonation in an electronic form, including artificially morphed images of such individuals, take all .. measures to remove or disable access to such content," it added. Deepfakes are used to intentionally disseminate disinformation or they may have a malicious intent behind their use. They can be manipulated to harass, intimidate, demean and undermine people. The videos with morphed faces of actors Rashmika Mandanna, Katrina Kaif and Kajol had surfaced on the internet earlier, sparking huge outrage. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi highlights threats posed by deep fakes, cites his morphed video singing Garba song

<p>Astronomers are baffled by a rare bright space event called Tasmanian devil that has been observed to flare up frequently and radiate more energy than that of other stars. This dead star is about 1 billion light-years from Earth. Astronomers are trying to understand why is the Tasmanian Devil&nbsp;releasing signs of life months after its death. Another intriguing aspect is that the&nbsp;short, bright flares were just as powerful as the original event that caused the star’s death.</p>

<p>This star was first discovered in September 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per a report by Nature, the explosion wasn't your regular supernova, but a Luminous Fast Blue Optical Transient (LFBOT). Such an explosion is known to&nbsp;emit a bright&nbsp;blue light, reaching the peak quickly and fading within days.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Amazingly, instead of fading steadily as one would expect, the source briefly brightened again — and again, and again,” lead study author Anna YQ&nbsp;Ho said.</p>

<p>“LFBOTs are already a kind of weird, exotic event, so this was even weirder," she added.</p>

<p>“An event like this has never been witnessed before,” said co-author of the paper Professor Jeff Cooke from Swinburne University of Technology and the ARC Centre of Excellence in Gravitational Wave Discovery (OzGrav).</p>

<p>He helmed the observations using WM Keck Observatory in Hawaii as part of this work.</p>

<p>According to Jeff Cooke, when LFBOTs flare up, they emit more energy than an entire galaxy of hundreds of billions of stars like the Sun. He adds that the&nbsp;mechanism behind this massive amount of energy is currently unknown.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/japans-ispace-second-moon-mission-to-take-flight-as-early-as-2024-after-april-setback-659428">Second moon mission by Japan's Ispace to take flight as early as 2024 after April setback</a></p>

<p>“But in this case, after the initial burst and fade, the extreme explosions just kept happening, occurring very fast – over minutes, rather than weeks to months, as is the case for supernovae.”</p>

<p>“Amazingly, instead of fading steadily as one would expect, the source briefly brightened again, and again, and again,” Cornell University Assistant Professor Anna Ho, lead author of the paper said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/who-declares-loneliness-as-grave-global-health-threat-launches-commission-to-address-concern-659338">WHO declares loneliness as grave global health threat, launches commission to address concern</a></p>

<p>The LFBOT event, which occurred on 7 Sep 2022, is baffling, said Professor Cooke. “It pushes the limits of physics because of its extreme energy production, but also because of the short duration bursts. Light travels at a finite speed. As such, how fast a source can burst and fade away limits the size of a source, meaning that all this energy is being generated from a relatively small source.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Astronomers are baffled by a rare bright space event called Tasmanian devil that has been observed to flare up frequently and radiate more energy than that of other stars.

Astronomers are baffled by a rare bright space event called Tasmanian devil that has been observed to flare up frequently and radiate more energy than that of other stars. This dead star is about 1 billion light-years from Earth. Astronomers are trying to understand why is the Tasmanian Devil releasing signs of life months after its death. Another intriguing aspect is that the short, bright flares were just as powerful as the original event that caused the star’s death. This star was first discovered in September 2022. As per a report by Nature, the explosion wasn't your regular supernova, but a Luminous Fast Blue Optical Transient (LFBOT). Such an explosion is known to emit a bright blue light, reaching the peak quickly and fading within days. “Amazingly, instead of fading steadily as one would expect, the source briefly brightened again — and again, and again,” lead study author Anna YQ Ho said. “LFBOTs are already a kind of weird, exotic event, so this was even weirder," she added. “An event like this has never been witnessed before,” said co-author of the paper Professor Jeff Cooke from Swinburne University of Technology and the ARC Centre of Excellence in Gravitational Wave Discovery (OzGrav). He helmed the observations using WM Keck Observatory in Hawaii as part of this work. According to Jeff Cooke, when LFBOTs flare up, they emit more energy than an entire galaxy of hundreds of billions of stars like the Sun. He adds that the mechanism behind this massive amount of energy is currently unknown. Also read: Second moon mission by Japan's Ispace to take flight as early as 2024 after April setback “But in this case, after the initial burst and fade, the extreme explosions just kept happening, occurring very fast – over minutes, rather than weeks to months, as is the case for supernovae.” “Amazingly, instead of fading steadily as one would expect, the source briefly brightened again, and again, and again,” Cornell University Assistant Professor Anna Ho, lead author of the paper said. Also read: WHO declares loneliness as grave global health threat, launches commission to address concern The LFBOT event, which occurred on 7 Sep 2022, is baffling, said Professor Cooke. “It pushes the limits of physics because of its extreme energy production, but also because of the short duration bursts. Light travels at a finite speed. As such, how fast a source can burst and fade away limits the size of a source, meaning that all this energy is being generated from a relatively small source.” (With inputs from agencies)

Dead star called 'Tasmanian devil' releasing signs of life months after explosion

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