The hunt for extraterrestrial life on other planets has continued for years with scientists hoping to find slight evidence of the existence of life beyond the world.&nbsp;

Now while studying the tectonic activity, which took place around 4 billion years ago on Mars, the scientists found that there were 63 types of volcanoes which were strangely different from the rest of the Martian highlands.

A team of planetary scientists discovered that the landscape of the Eridania region of Mars, where these volcanoes were located, had been shaped in response to the changes which occurred within the crust of Mars.&nbsp;

The discovery is likely to influence the hunt for signs of alien life on Mars which is being studied by NASA's Curiosity and Perseverance rovers.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-congressional-budget-stalemate-forces-nasa-layoffs-mars-sample-return-mission-in-peril-688039">US Congressional budget stalemate forces NASA layoffs, Mars sample return mission in peril</a>

"The large basins in this region once hosted a lake system known as the Eridania paleolake, which was up to around a mile deep when the lake was at its greatest extent," said team member and planetary geologist, who was at the Planetary Science Institute Aster Cowart while speaking to Space.com. &nbsp;

"Long-lived volcanic sources next to abundant water may have fuelled hydrothermal systems that could have nurtured life. At the very least, these findings give us a larger number of places we can look for evidence of life," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>No volcanic or tectonic activity on modern-day Mars</h2>

Unlike the present-day Earth, Mars today has little or no volcanic and tectonic activity.&nbsp;

Additionally, since nearly half of the surface of Mars appears older than 3.5 billion years, it suggests that crustal recycling has not taken place extensively on the Red Planet.&nbsp;

The crustal recycling on planet Earth is driven by plate tectonics when one tectonic plate slips under another and leads to causing surface material to get recycled into the mantle between the crust of the Earth and its molten core.

Watch:&nbsp;Elon Musk reveals 'Game Plan' to relocate millions people on Mars

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elon-musk-reveals-game-plan-to-relocate-millions-people-on-mars-689583/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The team, which carried out this research, studied the mineralogy and morphology of the Mars' Eridania region with the use of data collected from spacecraft around the planet, which included the Mars Global Surveyor, Mars Odyssey and the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter.&nbsp;

"Various attributes of the Eridania region have drawn special attention for a while," said Cowart.&nbsp;

"Gamma-ray spectroscopy shows this to be a region of the crust with an especially distinctive composition, gravity data has shown it to be generally less dense and thicker than the rest of the Martian crust, and magnetic data shows it to be an intensely magnetized crust," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The hunt for extraterrestrial life on other planets has continued for years with scientists hoping to find slight evidence of the existence of life beyond the world.

The hunt for extraterrestrial life on other planets has continued for years with scientists hoping to find slight evidence of the existence of life beyond the world. Now while studying the tectonic activity, which took place around 4 billion years ago on Mars, the scientists found that there were 63 types of volcanoes which were strangely different from the rest of the Martian highlands. A team of planetary scientists discovered that the landscape of the Eridania region of Mars, where these volcanoes were located, had been shaped in response to the changes which occurred within the crust of Mars. The discovery is likely to influence the hunt for signs of alien life on Mars which is being studied by NASA's Curiosity and Perseverance rovers. Also Read: US Congressional budget stalemate forces NASA layoffs, Mars sample return mission in peril "The large basins in this region once hosted a lake system known as the Eridania paleolake, which was up to around a mile deep when the lake was at its greatest extent," said team member and planetary geologist, who was at the Planetary Science Institute Aster Cowart while speaking to Space.com. "Long-lived volcanic sources next to abundant water may have fuelled hydrothermal systems that could have nurtured life. At the very least, these findings give us a larger number of places we can look for evidence of life," he added. No volcanic or tectonic activity on modern-day Mars Unlike the present-day Earth, Mars today has little or no volcanic and tectonic activity. Additionally, since nearly half of the surface of Mars appears older than 3.5 billion years, it suggests that crustal recycling has not taken place extensively on the Red Planet. The crustal recycling on planet Earth is driven by plate tectonics when one tectonic plate slips under another and leads to causing surface material to get recycled into the mantle between the crust of the Earth and its molten core. Watch: Elon Musk reveals 'Game Plan' to relocate millions people on Mars The team, which carried out this research, studied the mineralogy and morphology of the Mars' Eridania region with the use of data collected from spacecraft around the planet, which included the Mars Global Surveyor, Mars Odyssey and the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. "Various attributes of the Eridania region have drawn special attention for a while," said Cowart. "Gamma-ray spectroscopy shows this to be a region of the crust with an especially distinctive composition, gravity data has shown it to be generally less dense and thicker than the rest of the Martian crust, and magnetic data shows it to be an intensely magnetized crust," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Alien life existed near ancient mile-deep lake, active volcanoes on Mars? Scientists suggest so

The scientists discovered the world's first intact chicken egg, which was estimated to be around 1,700 years old, and still had the liquid inside it.

The egg was discovered by scientists during an excavation in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire between 2007 and 2016, as the researchers said that at the time it was a “genuinely unique discovery”.

In the course of the excavation, three eggs were broken by the archaeologists and they released a “potent stench”, however, a fourth egg remained intact.

Oxford Archaeology's experts said that the waterlogged pit is likely to have been used like a Roman wishing well.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/this-ice-moon-which-resembles-the-death-star-from-star-wars-could-be-hospitable-to-life-447567">This ice moon, which resembles the Death Star from Star Wars, could be hospitable to life</a>

Now, in a micro scan, the scientists have discovered that the egg is still filled with yolk and egg white and is likely to be the only intact egg which has survived the period.

Oxford Archaeology's senior project manager Edward Biddulph, who oversaw the excavation, said: "We were absolutely blown away when we saw the contents in there, as we might have expected them to have leached out."&nbsp;

<h2>Scientists try to find way to extract liquid from egg</h2>

Conservator Dana Goodburn-Brown, who had taken the egg for further analysis at the University of Kent, carried out the recent work.&nbsp;

"It produced an amazing image that indicated that the egg, apart from being intact - which is incredible enough - also retained its liquid inside, presumably deriving from the yolk, albumen etc," said Biddulph.

The egg was also taken to London’s Natural History Museum and the experts consulted Douglas Russell, the senior curator of the museum’s birds, eggs and nests collection, regarding the best ways to conserve the egg and remove its contents.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Elon Musk reveals 'Game Plan' to relocate millions people on Mars

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elon-musk-reveals-game-plan-to-relocate-millions-people-on-mars-689583/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"As we found out when we visited the Natural History Museum, [it] appears to be the oldest known example in the world," said Biddulph.

The archaeologist has accepted that it was "a bit daunting walking around London with a 2,000-year-old egg".

"And it was a bit hairy on the Tube - although it was well protected - it’s not like I was carrying it around in my pocket," they added.&nbsp;

The egg is now being kept at Discover Bucks Museum in Aylesbury as the work to find the best method for extracting the inside liquid without breaking the shell continues.&nbsp;

"There is huge potential for further scientific research and this is the next stage in the life of this remarkable egg,” said Biddulph.

(With inputs from agencies)

The scientists discovered the world's first intact chicken egg, which was estimated to be around 1,700 years old, and still had the liquid inside it. The egg was discovered by scientists during an excavation in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire between 2007 and 2016, as the researchers said that at the time it was a “genuinely unique discovery”.

The scientists discovered the world's first intact chicken egg, which was estimated to be around 1,700 years old, and still had the liquid inside it. The egg was discovered by scientists during an excavation in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire between 2007 and 2016, as the researchers said that at the time it was a “genuinely unique discovery”. In the course of the excavation, three eggs were broken by the archaeologists and they released a “potent stench”, however, a fourth egg remained intact. Oxford Archaeology's experts said that the waterlogged pit is likely to have been used like a Roman wishing well. Also Read: This ice moon, which resembles the Death Star from Star Wars, could be hospitable to life Now, in a micro scan, the scientists have discovered that the egg is still filled with yolk and egg white and is likely to be the only intact egg which has survived the period. Oxford Archaeology's senior project manager Edward Biddulph, who oversaw the excavation, said: "We were absolutely blown away when we saw the contents in there, as we might have expected them to have leached out." Scientists try to find way to extract liquid from egg Conservator Dana Goodburn-Brown, who had taken the egg for further analysis at the University of Kent, carried out the recent work. "It produced an amazing image that indicated that the egg, apart from being intact - which is incredible enough - also retained its liquid inside, presumably deriving from the yolk, albumen etc," said Biddulph. The egg was also taken to London’s Natural History Museum and the experts consulted Douglas Russell, the senior curator of the museum’s birds, eggs and nests collection, regarding the best ways to conserve the egg and remove its contents. Watch: Elon Musk reveals 'Game Plan' to relocate millions people on Mars "As we found out when we visited the Natural History Museum, [it] appears to be the oldest known example in the world," said Biddulph. The archaeologist has accepted that it was "a bit daunting walking around London with a 2,000-year-old egg". "And it was a bit hairy on the Tube - although it was well protected - it’s not like I was carrying it around in my pocket," they added. The egg is now being kept at Discover Bucks Museum in Aylesbury as the work to find the best method for extracting the inside liquid without breaking the shell continues. "There is huge potential for further scientific research and this is the next stage in the life of this remarkable egg,” said Biddulph. (With inputs from agencies)

Rare 1,700-year-old Roman egg with completely intact liquid found

Police officials fired tear gas to disperse protesting farmers at the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu border on Tuesday to stop them from marching to the capital city to hold protests after the five-hour meeting with the cabinet ministers a day before remained inconclusive. The protesters have been pressing for a law guaranteeing minimum support price&nbsp;for crops, loan waiver and other demands.

The protesting farmers tried to move towards the barricade in their efforts to&nbsp;cross over the Haryana-Punjab Shambhu border and even forcibly removed the cement barricades with their tractors.

As the police continued to fire&nbsp;multiple rounds of tear gas, protesting farmers dispersed and entered inside farmlands on the&nbsp;border. The protesters were later detained by Haryana Police at Shambu border amid chaos.&nbsp;Stones were&nbsp;being pelted at security personnel by protesting farmers,&nbsp;said a&nbsp;Haryana Police spokesperson.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Haryana Police detain protestors at Shambu border as chaos breaks out during farmers' movement towards Delhi to press for their various demands <a href="https://t.co/EgtaOABJKx">pic.twitter.com/EgtaOABJKx</a>
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The ministers failed to reach any resolution on the&nbsp;main demands of the farmers, one of them being a&nbsp;law to guarantee a Minimum Support Price for all crops.&nbsp;India's Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda, along with Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Piyush Goyal held the meeting with the farmers.&nbsp;

After 11 pm local time on Feb 12 (Monday), both sides agreed to repeal the Electricity Act 2020 and also decided on the withdrawal of cases filed against farmers during the movement as well as compensation to farmers who were killed in Lakhimpur Kheri in the state of Uttar Pradesh.

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&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Police fire tear gas to disperse protesting farmers at Punjab-Haryana Shambhu border. 
 
The protesters are demanding a law guaranteeing MSP for crops. <a href="https://t.co/TRCI8gZ2M9">pic.twitter.com/TRCI8gZ2M9</a>
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However, they failed to reach a consensus on three key demands - farmer loan waiver, implementation of the Swaminathan Commission recommendations and enactment of a law for guaranteeing a Minimum Support Price for all crops.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-haryana-government-suspends-internet-services-in-several-districts-ahead-of-farmers-march-689064">India: Haryana government suspends internet services in several districts ahead of farmers' march</a>

After the meeting came to an end, Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee's Sarwan Singh Pandher announced that the 'Delhi Chalo' march was on.&nbsp;

"Two years ago, the government had promised to meet half of our demands in writing... We wanted to resolve the issue peacefully. But the government is not sincere. They just want to waste time," said a farmers' representative&nbsp;while speaking to the reporters.

<h2>How Farmer&nbsp;Protest 2.0 differs from the 2020 stir?</h2>

In 2020, the farmers were protesting against the three laws which were finally repealed in 2021.

In 2023, 'Delhi Chalo' was announced with the demand of a legal guarantee to MSP for all crops, full debt waiver for farmers, the implementation of Swaminathan Commission's formula,&nbsp;withdrawal of cases filed against farmers during the 2020-21 protest, and pension for farmers and labourers.&nbsp;

Various unions have been spearheading the farmers'&nbsp;protest 2.0 as the landscape of the farmers' unions has changed in the last few years.

Delhi Chalo 2.0 has been announced by Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha.

Samyukt Kisan Morcha and Bharatiya Kisan Union, which led the 2020 protest of the farmers, went through turbulence and split into several factions.

Watch:&nbsp;India: More than 200 farmers' union announce March on Feb 13, police impose precautionary measures

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-more-than-200-farmers-union-announce-march-on-feb-13-police-impose-precautionary-measures-689528/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Rakesh Tikait and Gurnam Singh Charuni were the two main leaders who led the 2020 protest. However, they are missing from the&nbsp;protest this year so far.

Sarwan Singh Pandher, general secretary of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee&nbsp;and Jagjit Singh Dallewal, leader of SKM (non-political) are at the forefront now.

In 2020, the farmers had entered the national capital. However, this time the administration has adopted strict pre-emptive measures to stop them from entering Delhi.&nbsp;

They have used nails on roads, cement barricades and barbed wire to block all routes to Delhi. The government has imposed Section 144 across the capital. The Haryana government has also sealed its borders along with Punjab.

The negotiation process before the start of the farmers' Delhi Chalo march was initiated by the government but remained unfruitful. The farmers' protest becomes crucial as general elections are just few months away. 
 
Meanwhile, commuters in&nbsp;Delhi-NCR bore the brunt of the farmers' protest as traffic slowed to a crawl amid heavy barricading at Singhu, Tikri, and Ghazipur borders.

(With inputs from agencies)

Police officials fired tear gas to disperse protesting farmers at the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu border on Tuesday to stop them from marching to the capital city to hold protests after the five-hour meeting with the cabinet ministers a day before remained inconclusive.

Police officials fired tear gas to disperse protesting farmers at the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu border on Tuesday to stop them from marching to the capital city to hold protests after the five-hour meeting with the cabinet ministers a day before remained inconclusive. The protesters have been pressing for a law guaranteeing minimum support price for crops, loan waiver and other demands. The protesting farmers tried to move towards the barricade in their efforts to cross over the Haryana-Punjab Shambhu border and even forcibly removed the cement barricades with their tractors. As the police continued to fire multiple rounds of tear gas, protesting farmers dispersed and entered inside farmlands on the border. The protesters were later detained by Haryana Police at Shambu border amid chaos. Stones were being pelted at security personnel by protesting farmers, said a Haryana Police spokesperson. #WATCH | Haryana Police detain protestors at Shambu border as chaos breaks out during farmers' movement towards Delhi to press for their various demands pic.twitter.com/EgtaOABJKx — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2024 × The ministers failed to reach any resolution on the main demands of the farmers, one of them being a law to guarantee a Minimum Support Price for all crops. India's Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda, along with Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Piyush Goyal held the meeting with the farmers. After 11 pm local time on Feb 12 (Monday), both sides agreed to repeal the Electricity Act 2020 and also decided on the withdrawal of cases filed against farmers during the movement as well as compensation to farmers who were killed in Lakhimpur Kheri in the state of Uttar Pradesh. #WATCH | Police fire tear gas to disperse protesting farmers at Punjab-Haryana Shambhu border. pic.twitter.com/LNpKPqdTR4 — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2024 × #WATCH | Police fire tear gas to disperse protesting farmers at Punjab-Haryana Shambhu border. The protesters are demanding a law guaranteeing MSP for crops. pic.twitter.com/TRCI8gZ2M9 — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2024 × However, they failed to reach a consensus on three key demands - farmer loan waiver, implementation of the Swaminathan Commission recommendations and enactment of a law for guaranteeing a Minimum Support Price for all crops. Also Read: India: Haryana government suspends internet services in several districts ahead of farmers' march After the meeting came to an end, Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee's Sarwan Singh Pandher announced that the 'Delhi Chalo' march was on. "Two years ago, the government had promised to meet half of our demands in writing... We wanted to resolve the issue peacefully. But the government is not sincere. They just want to waste time," said a farmers' representative while speaking to the reporters. How Farmer Protest 2.0 differs from the 2020 stir? In 2020, the farmers were protesting against the three laws which were finally repealed in 2021. In 2023, 'Delhi Chalo' was announced with the demand of a legal guarantee to MSP for all crops, full debt waiver for farmers, the implementation of Swaminathan Commission's formula, withdrawal of cases filed against farmers during the 2020-21 protest, and pension for farmers and labourers. Various unions have been spearheading the farmers' protest 2.0 as the landscape of the farmers' unions has changed in the last few years. Delhi Chalo 2.0 has been announced by Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. Samyukt Kisan Morcha and Bharatiya Kisan Union, which led the 2020 protest of the farmers, went through turbulence and split into several factions. Watch: India: More than 200 farmers' union announce March on Feb 13, police impose precautionary measures Rakesh Tikait and Gurnam Singh Charuni were the two main leaders who led the 2020 protest. However, they are missing from the protest this year so far. Sarwan Singh Pandher, general secretary of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee and Jagjit Singh Dallewal, leader of SKM (non-political) are at the forefront now. In 2020, the farmers had entered the national capital. However, this time the administration has adopted strict pre-emptive measures to stop them from entering Delhi. They have used nails on roads, cement barricades and barbed wire to block all routes to Delhi. The government has imposed Section 144 across the capital. The Haryana government has also sealed its borders along with Punjab. The negotiation process before the start of the farmers' Delhi Chalo march was initiated by the government but remained unfruitful. The farmers' protest becomes crucial as general elections are just few months away. Meanwhile, commuters in Delhi-NCR bore the brunt of the farmers' protest as traffic slowed to a crawl amid heavy barricading at Singhu, Tikri, and Ghazipur borders. (With inputs from agencies)

Farmers’ protest: Chaos at Delhi borders amid tear gas firing, stone pelting; cops detain many protesters

Amid the farmers' march towards the national capital, the Delhi government on Tuesday (Feb 13) refused to accept the proposal submitted by the central government to convert Bawana Stadium into a jail.&nbsp;

Speaking about the proposal of the Central government, Delhi Government Home Minister Kailash Gehlot said that the demands raised by the farmers are genuine.&nbsp;

"The demands of the farmers are genuine. It is the constitutional right of every citizen to make a peaceful protest. It is therefore incorrect to arrest the farmers," he said.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-remain-adamant-for-delhi-chalo-march-heres-how-protest-differs-from-2020s-stir-689701">Farmers remain adamant for 'Delhi Chalo' march. Here's how protest differs from the 2020 stir</a>

"The Central government, in fact, should invite them over for talks and try to find a solution to their genuine problems. Farmers are our 'annadata' and treating them in this way by arresting them would be like rubbing salt into their wounds. We cannot be a party to this decision of the central government. Hence, approval cannot be given for converting a stadium into a jail," Gehlot added.&nbsp;

<h2>Here's what farmers have been demanding in the 2024 protest</h2>

The farmers in 2020 were protesting against the three laws which were finally repealed in 2021. In 2023, Delhi Chalo was announced with the demand of a legal guarantee to MSP for all crops, full debt waiver for farmers, withdrawal of cases filed against farmers during the 2020-21 protest, the implementation of Swaminathan Commission's formula and pension for farmers and labourers.&nbsp;

Various unions have been spearheading the farmer's protest 2.0 as the landscape of the farmers' unions has changed in the last few years. Delhi Chalo 2.0 has been announced by Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha.

Samyukt Kisan Morcha and Bhartiya Kisan Union, which led the 2020 protest of the farmers, went through several factionalisms.

Watch:&nbsp;Farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' March: Thousands of agitating farmers en route to Delhi

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/farmers-delhi-chalo-march-thousands-of-agitating-farmers-en-route-to-delhi-689683/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Rakesh Tikait and Gurnam Singh Charuni were the two main leaders who led the 2020 protest. However, they have been missing from the current protest. Sarwan Singh Pandher, general secretary of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee&nbsp;and Jagjit Singh Dallewal, leader of SKM (non-political) are at the forefront currently.

In 2020, the farmers had entered the national capital. However, this time the administration has adopted strict pre-emptive measures to stop them from entering Delhi.&nbsp; They have used nails on roads, cement barricades and barbed wire to block all roads to Delhi. The government has imposed Section 144 across the capital.

The Haryana government has also sealed its borders along with Punjab. The negotiation process before the start of the farmers' Delhi Chalo march was initiated by the government.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the farmers' march towards the national capital, the Delhi government on Tuesday (Feb 13) refused to accept the proposal submitted by the central government to convert Bawana Stadium into a jail.

Amid the farmers' march towards the national capital, the Delhi government on Tuesday (Feb 13) refused to accept the proposal submitted by the central government to convert Bawana Stadium into a jail. Speaking about the proposal of the Central government, Delhi Government Home Minister Kailash Gehlot said that the demands raised by the farmers are genuine. "The demands of the farmers are genuine. It is the constitutional right of every citizen to make a peaceful protest. It is therefore incorrect to arrest the farmers," he said. Also Read: Farmers remain adamant for 'Delhi Chalo' march. Here's how protest differs from the 2020 stir "The Central government, in fact, should invite them over for talks and try to find a solution to their genuine problems. Farmers are our 'annadata' and treating them in this way by arresting them would be like rubbing salt into their wounds. We cannot be a party to this decision of the central government. Hence, approval cannot be given for converting a stadium into a jail," Gehlot added. Here's what farmers have been demanding in the 2024 protest The farmers in 2020 were protesting against the three laws which were finally repealed in 2021. In 2023, Delhi Chalo was announced with the demand of a legal guarantee to MSP for all crops, full debt waiver for farmers, withdrawal of cases filed against farmers during the 2020-21 protest, the implementation of Swaminathan Commission's formula and pension for farmers and labourers. Various unions have been spearheading the farmer's protest 2.0 as the landscape of the farmers' unions has changed in the last few years. Delhi Chalo 2.0 has been announced by Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. Samyukt Kisan Morcha and Bhartiya Kisan Union, which led the 2020 protest of the farmers, went through several factionalisms. Watch: Farmers' 'Delhi Chalo' March: Thousands of agitating farmers en route to Delhi Rakesh Tikait and Gurnam Singh Charuni were the two main leaders who led the 2020 protest. However, they have been missing from the current protest. Sarwan Singh Pandher, general secretary of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee and Jagjit Singh Dallewal, leader of SKM (non-political) are at the forefront currently. In 2020, the farmers had entered the national capital. However, this time the administration has adopted strict pre-emptive measures to stop them from entering Delhi. They have used nails on roads, cement barricades and barbed wire to block all roads to Delhi. The government has imposed Section 144 across the capital. The Haryana government has also sealed its borders along with Punjab. The negotiation process before the start of the farmers' Delhi Chalo march was initiated by the government. (With inputs from agencies)

Farmers protest: Kejriwal government declines Centre's appeal to turn stadium into jail

United States President Joe Biden discussed the ongoing Israel-Hamas war with Jordan's King Abdullah II, where the latter called for a complete ceasefire to put an end to the Gaza war.

The Jordan King's appeal differed from the US president's appeal in which he sought a shorter six-week pause in the war.&nbsp;

While speaking at the White House, both leaders issued a warning against any indiscriminate Israeli ground incursion into the southern city of Rafah in Gaza, where more than a million Palestinians are trapped.

"We cannot afford an Israeli attack on Rafah. It is certain to produce another humanitarian catastrophe," said the Jordanian king.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-says-she-is-ready-to-serve-amid-concerns-about-bidens-age-689665">Kamala Harris says she is 'ready to serve' amid concerns about Biden's age</a>

"We cannot stand by and let this continue. We need a lasting ceasefire now -- this war must end," Abdullah said. He has repeatedly raised his voice for a full truce to end the conflict.&nbsp;

<h2>Military operation in Rafah needs to ensure safety of people: Biden</h2>

After holding talks with Jordan’s King Abdullah at the White House on Monday (Feb 12), Biden said: “A major military operation in Rafah should not proceed without a credible plan for ensuring the safety and support of more than 1 million people sheltering there."

“Many people there have been displaced multiple times fleeing the violence to the north and now they are packed into Rafah, exposed and vulnerable. They need to be protected,” Biden said.

Biden added that the United States had been working “day and night” on efforts to finalise a six-week pause in the fighting between Hamas and Israel.&nbsp;

Biden, who will be running for reelection in November, has said that Israel's offensive was "over the top".

Watch:&nbsp;US President Joe Biden joins TikTok ahead of 2024 election

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"The United States is working on a hostage deal between Israel and Hamas, which would bring in a sustained period of calm to Gaza for at least six weeks," Biden stated, further adding that key elements have been in place but "gaps" remained.

He said that the warring parties could then "take the time to build something more enduring."&nbsp;

Biden further stated that civilians living in Rafah, on the Egyptian border, "need to be protected" as Israel has been planning a ground incursion.

It was the first face-to-face meeting of Biden and Abdullah since the October 7 attack.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President Joe Biden discussed the ongoing Israel-Hamas war with Jordan's King Abdullah II, where the latter called for a complete ceasefire to put an end to the Gaza war.

United States President Joe Biden discussed the ongoing Israel-Hamas war with Jordan's King Abdullah II, where the latter called for a complete ceasefire to put an end to the Gaza war. The Jordan King's appeal differed from the US president's appeal in which he sought a shorter six-week pause in the war. While speaking at the White House, both leaders issued a warning against any indiscriminate Israeli ground incursion into the southern city of Rafah in Gaza, where more than a million Palestinians are trapped. "We cannot afford an Israeli attack on Rafah. It is certain to produce another humanitarian catastrophe," said the Jordanian king. Also Read: Kamala Harris says she is 'ready to serve' amid concerns about Biden's age "We cannot stand by and let this continue. We need a lasting ceasefire now -- this war must end," Abdullah said. He has repeatedly raised his voice for a full truce to end the conflict. Military operation in Rafah needs to ensure safety of people: Biden After holding talks with Jordan’s King Abdullah at the White House on Monday (Feb 12), Biden said: “A major military operation in Rafah should not proceed without a credible plan for ensuring the safety and support of more than 1 million people sheltering there." “Many people there have been displaced multiple times fleeing the violence to the north and now they are packed into Rafah, exposed and vulnerable. They need to be protected,” Biden said. Biden added that the United States had been working “day and night” on efforts to finalise a six-week pause in the fighting between Hamas and Israel. Biden, who will be running for reelection in November, has said that Israel's offensive was "over the top". Watch: US President Joe Biden joins TikTok ahead of 2024 election "The United States is working on a hostage deal between Israel and Hamas, which would bring in a sustained period of calm to Gaza for at least six weeks," Biden stated, further adding that key elements have been in place but "gaps" remained. He said that the warring parties could then "take the time to build something more enduring." Biden further stated that civilians living in Rafah, on the Egyptian border, "need to be protected" as Israel has been planning a ground incursion. It was the first face-to-face meeting of Biden and Abdullah since the October 7 attack. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden, Jordan king warn against indiscriminate Israeli ground incursion in Rafah

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.&nbsp;

In a spine-chilling incident, a man from New Hampshire – who was identified as Adam Montgomery – butchered his five-year-old daughter Harmony and then carried her decomposing corpse every day to his workplace, said the prosecutors in his murder trial. 
 
Montgomery worked at the restaurant and used to leave her daughter’s body next to the food. 
 
The 34-year-old man spent months shifting his daughter’s “butchered” body to different hiding spots, before finally disposing&nbsp;it off “like yesterday’s trash”, said prosecutors, while speaking at the opening of the trial, which the man refused to attend. 
&nbsp; 
The man also stuffed the compressed body of Harmony into a tote bag – which he purchased every day to carry her to the restaurant where he was employed as a cook and dishwasher, the court was informed, as reported by New York Post.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="Two teams of Mumbai Crime Branch to probe murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) Leader Abhishek Ghosalkar">Two teams of Mumbai Crime Branch to probe murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) Leader Abhishek Ghosalkar</a>

“[The bag] stood out to people, because he placed it in the freezer during his shifts,” said prosecutor Christopher Knowles, while speaking in the court. 
 
“He brought it with him regularly to work and he stored it in a freezer where the company kept food and ingredients. People saw him bringing that in and out. They couldn’t have imagined what that bag contained,” he said.

<h2 lang="en-US">Friend’s car trunk, mother-in-law’s cooler, ceiling vent | Man hid the dead body at all possible places</h2>

The murderer also hid his daughter’s corpse in a friend’s car trunk, a ceiling vent of a homeless shelter where he used to stay, a cooler in his mother-in-law’s apartment building, and an apartment freezer, before disposing it in an unknown location, said prosecutors. 
 
In 2019, Harmony went missing, however, the police were not informed about her disappearance and started looking for the child two years later. 
 
The father punched the daughter several times after she had two bathroom accidents in the car and later did drugs while ignoring her cries as she died while sitting in the backseat, the court was informed.

Watch:&nbsp;Divya Pahuja murder case: Former model's body found in a canal in Haryana

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/divya-pahuja-murder-case-former-models-body-found-in-a-canal-in-haryana-679795/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“He is the only person in this world who knows where Harmony is … and he was hoping that she would never be found,” said Knowles, regarding Montgomery, who has been serving more than 30 years of prison sentence on weapons charges. 
 
“The one person, the one and only person who murdered Harmony, who butchered her body, and who disposed of her like yesterday’s trash,” he added. 
 
In 2022, Montgomery pleaded not guilty to charges of second-degree murder, falsifying physical evidence, witness tampering in Harmony’s death, assault and abuse of a corpse.

(With inputs from agencies)

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. In a spine-chilling incident, a man from New Hampshire – who was identified as Adam Montgomery – butchered his five-year-old daughter Harmony and then carried her decomposing corpse every day to his workplace, said the prosecutors in his murder trial.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. In a spine-chilling incident, a man from New Hampshire – who was identified as Adam Montgomery – butchered his five-year-old daughter Harmony and then carried her decomposing corpse every day to his workplace, said the prosecutors in his murder trial. Montgomery worked at the restaurant and used to leave her daughter’s body next to the food. The 34-year-old man spent months shifting his daughter’s “butchered” body to different hiding spots, before finally disposing it off “like yesterday’s trash”, said prosecutors, while speaking at the opening of the trial, which the man refused to attend. The man also stuffed the compressed body of Harmony into a tote bag – which he purchased every day to carry her to the restaurant where he was employed as a cook and dishwasher, the court was informed, as reported by New York Post. Also Read: Two teams of Mumbai Crime Branch to probe murder of Shiv Sena (UBT) Leader Abhishek Ghosalkar “[The bag] stood out to people, because he placed it in the freezer during his shifts,” said prosecutor Christopher Knowles, while speaking in the court. “He brought it with him regularly to work and he stored it in a freezer where the company kept food and ingredients. People saw him bringing that in and out. They couldn’t have imagined what that bag contained,” he said. Friend’s car trunk, mother-in-law’s cooler, ceiling vent | Man hid the dead body at all possible places The murderer also hid his daughter’s corpse in a friend’s car trunk, a ceiling vent of a homeless shelter where he used to stay, a cooler in his mother-in-law’s apartment building, and an apartment freezer, before disposing it in an unknown location, said prosecutors. In 2019, Harmony went missing, however, the police were not informed about her disappearance and started looking for the child two years later. The father punched the daughter several times after she had two bathroom accidents in the car and later did drugs while ignoring her cries as she died while sitting in the backseat, the court was informed. Watch: Divya Pahuja murder case: Former model's body found in a canal in Haryana “He is the only person in this world who knows where Harmony is … and he was hoping that she would never be found,” said Knowles, regarding Montgomery, who has been serving more than 30 years of prison sentence on weapons charges. “The one person, the one and only person who murdered Harmony, who butchered her body, and who disposed of her like yesterday’s trash,” he added. In 2022, Montgomery pleaded not guilty to charges of second-degree murder, falsifying physical evidence, witness tampering in Harmony’s death, assault and abuse of a corpse. (With inputs from agencies)

TRIGGER WARNING: US man butchered 5-year-old daughter, carried her corpse to work daily

A centuries-old statue of Lord Vishnu, unearthed recently from the Krishna river in south Indian state of Karnataka's Raichur district, has features similar to the idol of Ram Lalla that was consecrated this January at the Ram Mandir&nbsp;in the northern holy city of Ayodhya, according to reports citing an expert.

The Vishnu idol features all the 10 'dashavatara' (incarnations) of Lord Vishnu, like the idol of Ram Lalla, news agency PTI reported citing the expert. 
 
An ancient 'Shivling', a holy structure for the Hindu faith, was also discovered along with the statue in the Krishna river.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ancient-vishnu-idol-shivling-found-in-karnataka-riverbed-687930">India: Ancient Vishnu idol, ‘Shivling’ found in Krishna river of Karnataka</a>

“This idol must have adored the sanctum sanctorum of a temple and must have been dropped in the river at the time of possible destruction of the temple,” PTI quoted&nbsp;Dr Padmaja Desai, a lecturer in ancient history and archaeology at Raichur University, as saying.

Idol&nbsp;has&nbsp;Lord Vishnu's 10 incarnations

Speaking about the special features of the Vishnu idol found in the Krishna river, Desai told the news agency, “The idol of Vishnu found in the Krishna river basin has special striking features."

"The aura around Vishnu shows 'dashavatara' such as Matsya, Koorma, Varaha, Narasimha, Vamana, Rama, Parashurama, Krishna, Buddha and Kalki.”

The professor further described the idol&nbsp;and said that Lord Vishnu has been depicted as having four arms and his two upper hands are holding the 'chakra' and 'shankha'. She added that the two lower hands are placed in the position of granting boons ('kati hasta' and 'varada hasta'). 
 
“Vishnu is depicted as having four arms with two upper hands holding the 'Shanka' and 'Chakra'.

"The two down hands are placed in the position of granting boons (kati hasta and varada hasta),” she said. 
 
According to the PTI report, the lecturer said the idol has a striking resemblance with Venkateshwara as has been described in the Vedas. 
 
“This sculpture is made of the Black Granite stone. It belongs to 11th century in the period of Kalayama Chalukya period,” the professor said.

Watch:&nbsp;Ram Mandir Ayodhya: Moment Ram Lalla's face unveiled

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ram-mandir-ayodhya-moment-ram-lallas-face-unveiled-682387/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, the idol does not have Garuda, Vishnu's bird, which is a characteristic typically found in Vishnu idols. 
 
In the idol, a pair of women are seen holding fans. Even though Lord Vishnu is fond of decoration, the idol shows a smiling Vishnu who is adorned with ornaments and garlands. 
 
According to the archaeologists, the idol is believed to have belonged to the 11th or 12th Century AD.

(With inputs from agencies)

A centuries-old statue of Lord Vishnu, unearthed recently from the Krishna river in south Indian state of Karnataka's Raichur district, has features similar to the idol of Ram Lalla that was consecrated this January at the Ram Mandir in the northern holy city of Ayodhya, according to reports citing an expert.

A centuries-old statue of Lord Vishnu, unearthed recently from the Krishna river in south Indian state of Karnataka's Raichur district, has features similar to the idol of Ram Lalla that was consecrated this January at the Ram Mandir in the northern holy city of Ayodhya, according to reports citing an expert. The Vishnu idol features all the 10 'dashavatara' (incarnations) of Lord Vishnu, like the idol of Ram Lalla, news agency PTI reported citing the expert. An ancient 'Shivling', a holy structure for the Hindu faith, was also discovered along with the statue in the Krishna river. Also Read: India: Ancient Vishnu idol, ‘Shivling’ found in Krishna river of Karnataka “This idol must have adored the sanctum sanctorum of a temple and must have been dropped in the river at the time of possible destruction of the temple,” PTI quoted Dr Padmaja Desai, a lecturer in ancient history and archaeology at Raichur University, as saying. Idol has Lord Vishnu's 10 incarnations Speaking about the special features of the Vishnu idol found in the Krishna river, Desai told the news agency, “The idol of Vishnu found in the Krishna river basin has special striking features." "The aura around Vishnu shows 'dashavatara' such as Matsya, Koorma, Varaha, Narasimha, Vamana, Rama, Parashurama, Krishna, Buddha and Kalki.” The professor further described the idol and said that Lord Vishnu has been depicted as having four arms and his two upper hands are holding the 'chakra' and 'shankha'. She added that the two lower hands are placed in the position of granting boons ('kati hasta' and 'varada hasta'). “Vishnu is depicted as having four arms with two upper hands holding the 'Shanka' and 'Chakra'. "The two down hands are placed in the position of granting boons (kati hasta and varada hasta),” she said. According to the PTI report, the lecturer said the idol has a striking resemblance with Venkateshwara as has been described in the Vedas. “This sculpture is made of the Black Granite stone. It belongs to 11th century in the period of Kalayama Chalukya period,” the professor said. Watch: Ram Mandir Ayodhya: Moment Ram Lalla's face unveiled However, the idol does not have Garuda, Vishnu's bird, which is a characteristic typically found in Vishnu idols. In the idol, a pair of women are seen holding fans. Even though Lord Vishnu is fond of decoration, the idol shows a smiling Vishnu who is adorned with ornaments and garlands. According to the archaeologists, the idol is believed to have belonged to the 11th or 12th Century AD. (With inputs from agencies)

Ancient statue of Lord Vishnu found in Krishna river has striking resemblance to Ram Lalla idol: Report

Pakistan's army chief General Syed Asim Munir said that the country needs to move on from the politics of "anarchy and polarisation", as the final results of the general elections came in.

The military has played a dominant role in the political landscape of Pakistan and several political analysts have alleged that the generals have been running the country for nearly half its history since its partition from India in 1947.

"The nation needs stable hands and a healing touch to move on from the politics of anarchy and polarisation, which does not suit a progressive country of 250 million people," said General Syed Asim Munir, as per the statement issued by the military.

The election results on Saturday (Feb 10) showed no clear majority and the country is now likely to face political horse-trading. However, a strong performance was seen by independent candidates, who were supporting jailed former prime minister Imran Khan.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-nawaz-sharif-hints-at-improving-ties-with-india-as-poll-results-drag-on-688825">Pakistan elections: Nawaz Sharif hints at improving ties with India as poll results drag on</a>

After the delayed results came in, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), which enjoys the support of the army, declared victory as they said that they had the maximum&nbsp;number of seats.

"Elections are not a zero-sum competition of winning and losing but an exercise to determine the mandate of the people," Munir was quoted as saying in the military statement.

"Political leadership and their workers should rise above self-interests and synergise efforts in governing and serving the people, which is perhaps the only way to make democracy functional and purposeful," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>US, EU, and UK express concern over irregularities in Pakistan elections</h2>

The United States, the European Union and Britain on Friday (Feb 9) separately expressed concerns over Pakistan's electoral process in the wake of voting and appealed for an investigation into reported irregularities.

Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan Election Result 2024: Nawaz Sharif invites rivals for coalition government

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-election-result-2024-nawaz-sharif-invites-rivals-for-coalition-government-688810/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The United States and the European Union both made statements regarding allegations of interference, which included arrests of activists and said that claims of interference, fraud and irregularities should be fully investigated.

The US State Department said Pakistan faced "undue restrictions on freedoms of expression" during the polls and also spoke about violence and attacks on media workers.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan's army chief General Syed Asim Munir said that the country needs to move on from the politics of "anarchy and polarisation", as the final results of the general elections came in.

Pakistan's army chief General Syed Asim Munir said that the country needs to move on from the politics of "anarchy and polarisation", as the final results of the general elections came in. The military has played a dominant role in the political landscape of Pakistan and several political analysts have alleged that the generals have been running the country for nearly half its history since its partition from India in 1947. "The nation needs stable hands and a healing touch to move on from the politics of anarchy and polarisation, which does not suit a progressive country of 250 million people," said General Syed Asim Munir, as per the statement issued by the military. The election results on Saturday (Feb 10) showed no clear majority and the country is now likely to face political horse-trading. However, a strong performance was seen by independent candidates, who were supporting jailed former prime minister Imran Khan. Also Read: Pakistan elections: Nawaz Sharif hints at improving ties with India as poll results drag on After the delayed results came in, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), which enjoys the support of the army, declared victory as they said that they had the maximum number of seats. "Elections are not a zero-sum competition of winning and losing but an exercise to determine the mandate of the people," Munir was quoted as saying in the military statement. "Political leadership and their workers should rise above self-interests and synergise efforts in governing and serving the people, which is perhaps the only way to make democracy functional and purposeful," he added. US, EU, and UK express concern over irregularities in Pakistan elections The United States, the European Union and Britain on Friday (Feb 9) separately expressed concerns over Pakistan's electoral process in the wake of voting and appealed for an investigation into reported irregularities. Watch: Pakistan Election Result 2024: Nawaz Sharif invites rivals for coalition government The United States and the European Union both made statements regarding allegations of interference, which included arrests of activists and said that claims of interference, fraud and irregularities should be fully investigated. The US State Department said Pakistan faced "undue restrictions on freedoms of expression" during the polls and also spoke about violence and attacks on media workers. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan army chief calls for freeing nation from 'anarchy and polarisation' after election

The United States, the European Union and Britain on Friday (Feb 9) separately expressed concerns over Pakistan's electoral process&nbsp;in the wake of voting which took place on Thursday (Feb 8) and appealed for an investigation into reported irregularities. 
 
The election results still remains&nbsp;indecisive as both, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's party and ex-prime minister Imran Khan declared victory. 
 
The elections were held on&nbsp;265&nbsp;national assembly seats, and to gain simple majority to form the government a party has&nbsp;to secure&nbsp;133 seats.

Till now, of 250 seats officially announced, Independents have 99 seats, PMLN has 71, PPP 53, MQM 17, PMLQ 3, IPP 2, JUI 2, MWM 1, BNP 1 and PMLZ has 1 seat and the&nbsp;results of 15 seats are awaited.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-nawaz-sharif-hints-at-improving-ties-with-india-as-poll-results-drag-on-688825">Pakistan elections: Nawaz Sharif hints at improving ties with India as poll results drag on</a> 
 
The United States and the European Union both made statements regarding allegations of interference, which included arrests of activists and said that claims of interference, fraud and irregularities should be fully investigated.

<h2 lang="en-US">US says 'undue restrictions&nbsp;on freedom&nbsp;of expression" during&nbsp;polls</h2>

The US State Department said Pakistan faced "undue restrictions&nbsp;on freedoms of expression" during the&nbsp; polls and also spoke about violence and attacks on media workers. 
 
"We join credible international and local election observers in their assessment that these elections included undue restrictions on freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly. We condemn electoral violence, restrictions on the exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including attacks on media workers, and restrictions on access to the Internet and telecommunication services, and are concerned about allegations of interference in the electoral process. Claims of interference or fraud should be fully investigated," said the United States, in a statement. 
 
The EU, in a statement, emphasised a "lack of a level playing field", and attributed it to "the inability of some political actors to contest the elections" and also emphasised restrictions imposed on freedom of assembly, freedom of expression and internet access.

Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan Election Result 2024: Nawaz Sharif invites rivals for coalition government

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-election-result-2024-nawaz-sharif-invites-rivals-for-coalition-government-688810/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The UN human rights office, earlier this week, denounced violence against candidates and political parties. It also raised concern over the "pattern of harassment, arrests and prolonged detentions of leaders and supporters" of Khan's party. 
 
The United States, European Union and Britain said that they are willing to work with Pakistan's next government and did not congratulate any party or candidate. 
 
In a statement, British Foreign Minister David Cameron noted "serious concerns raised about the fairness and lack of inclusivity of the elections." 
 
Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan has been facing multiple legal cases because of which he was disqualified as a candidate and sentenced to long prison terms.

<h2 lang="en-US">Pakistan retorts back</h2>

Reacting to the statements, Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said,&nbsp;"We have taken note of statements from certain countries and organizations on the general elections held in Pakistan on 8 February 2024. We are surprised by the negative tone of some of these statements, which neither take into account the complexity of the electoral process, nor acknowledge the free and enthusiastic exercise of the right to vote by tens of millions of Pakistanis."

"These statements ignore the undeniable fact that Pakistan has held general elections, peacefully and successfully, while dealing with serious security threats resulting primarily from foreign-sponsored terrorism.&nbsp;Some statements are not even factual. There was no nationwide internet shutdown. Only mobile services were suspended for the day to avoid terrorist incidents on the polling day. The elections exercise has demonstrated that the concerns of many commentators were misplaced," it added.

"Pakistan held the elections as part of its commitment to building a stable and democratic society. While we value constructive advice from our friends, making negative commentary even before the completion of the electoral process is neither constructive nor objective. Pakistan will continue to work towards building a vibrant democratic polity. Every election and peaceful transition of power brings us closer to that goal. We do this not on account of the concerns expressed by others but because that is the aspiration of our people and the vision of our founding fathers," the ministry stated.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States, the European Union and Britain on Friday (Feb 9) separately expressed concerns over Pakistan's electoral process in the wake of voting which took place on Thursday (Feb 8) and appealed for an investigation into reported irregularities.

The United States, the European Union and Britain on Friday (Feb 9) separately expressed concerns over Pakistan's electoral process in the wake of voting which took place on Thursday (Feb 8) and appealed for an investigation into reported irregularities. The election results still remains indecisive as both, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif's party and ex-prime minister Imran Khan declared victory. The elections were held on 265 national assembly seats, and to gain simple majority to form the government a party has to secure 133 seats. Till now, of 250 seats officially announced, Independents have 99 seats, PMLN has 71, PPP 53, MQM 17, PMLQ 3, IPP 2, JUI 2, MWM 1, BNP 1 and PMLZ has 1 seat and the results of 15 seats are awaited. Also Read: Pakistan elections: Nawaz Sharif hints at improving ties with India as poll results drag on The United States and the European Union both made statements regarding allegations of interference, which included arrests of activists and said that claims of interference, fraud and irregularities should be fully investigated. US says 'undue restrictions on freedom of expression" during polls The US State Department said Pakistan faced "undue restrictions on freedoms of expression" during the polls and also spoke about violence and attacks on media workers. "We join credible international and local election observers in their assessment that these elections included undue restrictions on freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly. We condemn electoral violence, restrictions on the exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including attacks on media workers, and restrictions on access to the Internet and telecommunication services, and are concerned about allegations of interference in the electoral process. Claims of interference or fraud should be fully investigated," said the United States, in a statement. The EU, in a statement, emphasised a "lack of a level playing field", and attributed it to "the inability of some political actors to contest the elections" and also emphasised restrictions imposed on freedom of assembly, freedom of expression and internet access. Watch: Pakistan Election Result 2024: Nawaz Sharif invites rivals for coalition government The UN human rights office, earlier this week, denounced violence against candidates and political parties. It also raised concern over the "pattern of harassment, arrests and prolonged detentions of leaders and supporters" of Khan's party. The United States, European Union and Britain said that they are willing to work with Pakistan's next government and did not congratulate any party or candidate. In a statement, British Foreign Minister David Cameron noted "serious concerns raised about the fairness and lack of inclusivity of the elections." Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan has been facing multiple legal cases because of which he was disqualified as a candidate and sentenced to long prison terms. Pakistan retorts back Reacting to the statements, Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, "We have taken note of statements from certain countries and organizations on the general elections held in Pakistan on 8 February 2024. We are surprised by the negative tone of some of these statements, which neither take into account the complexity of the electoral process, nor acknowledge the free and enthusiastic exercise of the right to vote by tens of millions of Pakistanis." "These statements ignore the undeniable fact that Pakistan has held general elections, peacefully and successfully, while dealing with serious security threats resulting primarily from foreign-sponsored terrorism. Some statements are not even factual. There was no nationwide internet shutdown. Only mobile services were suspended for the day to avoid terrorist incidents on the polling day. The elections exercise has demonstrated that the concerns of many commentators were misplaced," it added. "Pakistan held the elections as part of its commitment to building a stable and democratic society. While we value constructive advice from our friends, making negative commentary even before the completion of the electoral process is neither constructive nor objective. Pakistan will continue to work towards building a vibrant democratic polity. Every election and peaceful transition of power brings us closer to that goal. We do this not on account of the concerns expressed by others but because that is the aspiration of our people and the vision of our founding fathers," the ministry stated. (With inputs from agencies)

US, EU, UK express concern over irregularities in Pakistan elections, urge for probe

An Indian-origin man died this week in Washington, United States after he got involved in a scuffle outside a restaurant and suffered life-threatening injuries. 
 
The 41-year-old Indian-American executive Vivek Taneja, a resident of&nbsp;Virginia, was at two sister Japanese restaurants along with the suspect on February 2, according to the police report. He was "knocked to the ground by the suspect and hit his head on the pavement", read the police report. 
 
The incident&nbsp;comes amid a sudden increase in attacks and deaths of Indians and Indian-Americans in the United States.

<h2 lang="en-US">Police hunt for the suspect</h2>

Taneja had left the restaurant at around 2 am local time and got involved in a skirmish on a nearby street, as per the police report. The specific nature of the dispute was, however, not specified.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-student-killed-in-us-fifth-such-case-in-less-than-two-weeks-687732">Another Indian-origin student dies in United States in fifth such case this year</a>

In the fight, the Indian-origin man lost consciousness and when the police arrived, they found he had suffered life-threatening injuries, after which he was rushed to a hospital. 
 
On Wednesday (Feb 7), the man succumbed to the injuries in the hospital. The police have been searching for the suspect based on CCTV footage. Though the man is yet to be identified. 
 
A reward of $25,000 has been announced&nbsp;by the police&nbsp;to anyone who provides&nbsp;information that would lead&nbsp;to the suspect's arrest and conviction. 
 
Earlier this week, an Indian student Syed Mazahir Ali was attacked by robbers in Chicago and the video of him bleeding from his nose and mouth was shared on social media. 
 
Ali, whose family resides in the Indian city of Hyderabad, was seen pleading for help after the attack in the video. 
 
Five Indian-origin students have till now been reported dead in the United States this year.

Watch: Why are Indian students dying, being attacked in the US?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-are-indian-students-dying-being-attacked-in-the-us-688002/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Indian-American student Sameer Kamath from Purdue University was found dead in a nature preserve.

Another 19-year-old student, Shreyas Reddy Beniger, who held an American passport, was found dead last week. The authorities ruled out any foul play. 
 
Neel Acharya, another student of Purdue University, was found dead on the campus, hours after he was reported missing by his mother. 
 
A 25-year-old student, Vivek Saini from Haryana, was hammered to death in Georgia's Lithonia by a homeless man on January 16. 
 
Another Indian student, Akul Dhawan, was found dead outside the campus of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in January.

(With inputs from agencies)

An Indian-origin man died this week in Washington, United States after he got involved in a scuffle outside a restaurant and suffered life-threatening injuries. The 41-year-old Indian-American executive Vivek Taneja, a resident of Virginia, was at two sister Japanese restaurants along with the suspect on February 2, according to the police report.

An Indian-origin man died this week in Washington, United States after he got involved in a scuffle outside a restaurant and suffered life-threatening injuries. The 41-year-old Indian-American executive Vivek Taneja, a resident of Virginia, was at two sister Japanese restaurants along with the suspect on February 2, according to the police report. He was "knocked to the ground by the suspect and hit his head on the pavement", read the police report. The incident comes amid a sudden increase in attacks and deaths of Indians and Indian-Americans in the United States. Police hunt for the suspect Taneja had left the restaurant at around 2 am local time and got involved in a skirmish on a nearby street, as per the police report. The specific nature of the dispute was, however, not specified. Also Read: Another Indian-origin student dies in United States in fifth such case this year In the fight, the Indian-origin man lost consciousness and when the police arrived, they found he had suffered life-threatening injuries, after which he was rushed to a hospital. On Wednesday (Feb 7), the man succumbed to the injuries in the hospital. The police have been searching for the suspect based on CCTV footage. Though the man is yet to be identified. A reward of $25,000 has been announced by the police to anyone who provides information that would lead to the suspect's arrest and conviction. Earlier this week, an Indian student Syed Mazahir Ali was attacked by robbers in Chicago and the video of him bleeding from his nose and mouth was shared on social media. Ali, whose family resides in the Indian city of Hyderabad, was seen pleading for help after the attack in the video. Five Indian-origin students have till now been reported dead in the United States this year. Watch: Why are Indian students dying, being attacked in the US? Indian-American student Sameer Kamath from Purdue University was found dead in a nature preserve. Another 19-year-old student, Shreyas Reddy Beniger, who held an American passport, was found dead last week. The authorities ruled out any foul play. Neel Acharya, another student of Purdue University, was found dead on the campus, hours after he was reported missing by his mother. A 25-year-old student, Vivek Saini from Haryana, was hammered to death in Georgia's Lithonia by a homeless man on January 16. Another Indian student, Akul Dhawan, was found dead outside the campus of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in January. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Indian-origin man dies after being assaulted on streets of Washington

In a new study, scientists found that several rigid tectonic plates which are under the Pacific Ocean are being pulled apart. 
 
Earth has an outer shell, which is called the lithosphere and is divided into various rigid plates. These plates are known to float in the semi-fluid asthenosphere and their movement is a key feature of these plates. 
 
The University of Toronto's geoscientists discovered that the plate is scored by large undersea faults which are hundreds of kilometres long and thousands of metres deep. 
 
The team was surprised after finding that the geological deformation, which is the continental plate interiors' regular feature, is also taking place inside the ocean plates.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/mysterious-jet-black-eggs-found-eggs-discovered-in-depths-of-the-pacific-683278">Mysterious jet-black eggs found in depths of Pacific Ocean; scientists perplexed</a>

“We knew that geological deformations like faults happen on the continental plate interiors far from plate boundaries,” said Erkan Gun, who is a post-doctoral researcher in the Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences at U of T Scarborough, as reported by Science Alert. 
 
“But we didn't know the same thing was happening to ocean plates," Gun stated. 
 
The Pacific plate consists of the maximum Pacific Ocean floor and has moved westwards to plunge into the mantle of Earth along the trenches or subduction zones of undersea which run from Japan to New Zealand and Australia.

<h2 lang="en-US">Tectonic plate gets dragged inside Earth's mantle like table cloth: Scientists</h2>

Researchers said that as the plate's western edge is pulled down into the mantle, the rest of it gets dragged inside it like a tablecloth being pulled from a table. 
 
“It was thought that because the sub-oceanic plateaus are thicker, they should be stronger. But our models and seismic data show it’s the opposite: the plateaus are weaker," said Gun.

Watch:&nbsp;World sees first 12 months above 1.5°c warming level

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-sees-first-12-months-above-15degc-warming-level-688236/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The scientists studied four plateaus present in the western Pacific Ocean, which is the Ontong Java, Shatsky, Hess, and Manihiki, in a vast area that is roughly bounded by New Zealand, Hawaii, Japan and Australia. 
 
The scientists then brought a supercomputer into action to create a model with the help of existing data which revealed major changes. 
 
The study's findings were published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters. 
 
“A new finding like this overturns what we’ve understood and taught about the active Earth, and it shows that there are still radical mysteries about even the grand operation of our evolving planet,” Gun added.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a new study, scientists found that several rigid tectonic plates which are under the Pacific Ocean are being pulled apart. Earth has an outer shell, which is called the lithosphere and is divided into various rigid plates.

In a new study, scientists found that several rigid tectonic plates which are under the Pacific Ocean are being pulled apart. Earth has an outer shell, which is called the lithosphere and is divided into various rigid plates. These plates are known to float in the semi-fluid asthenosphere and their movement is a key feature of these plates. The University of Toronto's geoscientists discovered that the plate is scored by large undersea faults which are hundreds of kilometres long and thousands of metres deep. The team was surprised after finding that the geological deformation, which is the continental plate interiors' regular feature, is also taking place inside the ocean plates. Also Read: Mysterious jet-black eggs found in depths of Pacific Ocean; scientists perplexed “We knew that geological deformations like faults happen on the continental plate interiors far from plate boundaries,” said Erkan Gun, who is a post-doctoral researcher in the Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences at U of T Scarborough, as reported by Science Alert. “But we didn't know the same thing was happening to ocean plates," Gun stated. The Pacific plate consists of the maximum Pacific Ocean floor and has moved westwards to plunge into the mantle of Earth along the trenches or subduction zones of undersea which run from Japan to New Zealand and Australia. Tectonic plate gets dragged inside Earth's mantle like table cloth: Scientists Researchers said that as the plate's western edge is pulled down into the mantle, the rest of it gets dragged inside it like a tablecloth being pulled from a table. “It was thought that because the sub-oceanic plateaus are thicker, they should be stronger. But our models and seismic data show it’s the opposite: the plateaus are weaker," said Gun. Watch: World sees first 12 months above 1.5°c warming level The scientists studied four plateaus present in the western Pacific Ocean, which is the Ontong Java, Shatsky, Hess, and Manihiki, in a vast area that is roughly bounded by New Zealand, Hawaii, Japan and Australia. The scientists then brought a supercomputer into action to create a model with the help of existing data which revealed major changes. The study's findings were published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters. “A new finding like this overturns what we’ve understood and taught about the active Earth, and it shows that there are still radical mysteries about even the grand operation of our evolving planet,” Gun added. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists say tectonic plate tearing apart under Pacific Ocean from Japan to New Zealand

The Atlantic Ocean's circulation has been moving towards a tipping point which is “bad news for the climate system and humanity”, according to a new study. 
 
The scientists, who have carried out the research, said that they were shocked seeing the expected forecast speed of collapse once the tipping point is reached. However, they added that it was not yet possible to predict how soon the tipping point will be reached. 
 
By using past data and computer models, the researchers have developed an early warning indicator to understand the breakdown of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (Amoc), which is a vast system of ocean currents and is an important component in global climate regulation.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/oceans-absorbed-heat-enough-to-boil-billions-of-olympic-swimming-pools-in-2023-study-679157">Oceans absorbed heat enough to boil 'billions' of Olympic swimming pools in 2023: Study&nbsp;</a>

The researchers found that Amoc is already moving towards an abrupt shift. This kind of change has not taken place in more than 10,000 years and would have dire implications for major parts of the world. 
 
Amoc, which encompasses the Gulf Stream's parts and other powerful currents, is a major marine conveyor belt which contains carbon, nutrients and heat from the tropics towards the Arctic Circle, where it sinks and cools into the deep ocean.

<h2 lang="en-US">Churning of the Atlantic Ocean helps in distribution of energy</h2>

The churning of the Atlantic Ocean helps in the distribution of energy around the Earth and modulates the human-caused global heating's impact. 
 
However, the system is getting eroded by the faster-than-expected melt-off of glaciers in Greenland and ice sheets in the Arctic Circle, which provides freshwater into the sea and causes obstruction in the sinking of warmer, saltier water from the south. 
 
Since 1950, Amoc has declined 15 per cent and has reached its weakest state in more than a millennium, as per previous research which prompted speculation regarding an approaching collapse. 
 
Till now, there has been no consensus regarding how severe this is going to be. According to a study done last year, which was done on the basis of changes in sea surface temperatures, it was estimated that the tipping point can happen between 2025 and 2095.

Watch:&nbsp;NASA launches new climate mission to study ocean

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nasa-launches-new-climate-mission-to-study-ocean-688594/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, the UK Met Office stated that large and rapid changes in Amoc were “very unlikely” in the 21st century. 
 
According to the paper, the results provided a “clear answer” regarding whether such an abrupt shift was possible. 
 
“This is bad news for the climate system and humanity as up till now one could think that Amoc tipping was only a theoretical concept and tipping would disappear as soon as the full climate system, with all its additional feedbacks, was considered," it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Atlantic Ocean's circulation has been moving towards a tipping point which is “bad news for the climate system and humanity”, according to a new study. The scientists, who have carried out the research, said that they were shocked seeing the expected forecast speed of collapse once the tipping point is reached.

The Atlantic Ocean's circulation has been moving towards a tipping point which is “bad news for the climate system and humanity”, according to a new study. The scientists, who have carried out the research, said that they were shocked seeing the expected forecast speed of collapse once the tipping point is reached. However, they added that it was not yet possible to predict how soon the tipping point will be reached. By using past data and computer models, the researchers have developed an early warning indicator to understand the breakdown of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (Amoc), which is a vast system of ocean currents and is an important component in global climate regulation. Also Read: Oceans absorbed heat enough to boil 'billions' of Olympic swimming pools in 2023: Study The researchers found that Amoc is already moving towards an abrupt shift. This kind of change has not taken place in more than 10,000 years and would have dire implications for major parts of the world. Amoc, which encompasses the Gulf Stream's parts and other powerful currents, is a major marine conveyor belt which contains carbon, nutrients and heat from the tropics towards the Arctic Circle, where it sinks and cools into the deep ocean. Churning of the Atlantic Ocean helps in distribution of energy The churning of the Atlantic Ocean helps in the distribution of energy around the Earth and modulates the human-caused global heating's impact. However, the system is getting eroded by the faster-than-expected melt-off of glaciers in Greenland and ice sheets in the Arctic Circle, which provides freshwater into the sea and causes obstruction in the sinking of warmer, saltier water from the south. Since 1950, Amoc has declined 15 per cent and has reached its weakest state in more than a millennium, as per previous research which prompted speculation regarding an approaching collapse. Till now, there has been no consensus regarding how severe this is going to be. According to a study done last year, which was done on the basis of changes in sea surface temperatures, it was estimated that the tipping point can happen between 2025 and 2095. Watch: NASA launches new climate mission to study ocean However, the UK Met Office stated that large and rapid changes in Amoc were “very unlikely” in the 21st century. According to the paper, the results provided a “clear answer” regarding whether such an abrupt shift was possible. “This is bad news for the climate system and humanity as up till now one could think that Amoc tipping was only a theoretical concept and tipping would disappear as soon as the full climate system, with all its additional feedbacks, was considered," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Atlantic Ocean circulation nears ‘devastating’ tipping point. Here’s why it is bad news for humanity

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