Billionaire US investor Bill Ackman said on Thursday that he found short-seller Hindenburg Research's report on India's Adani Group "highly credible and extremely well researched".&nbsp;

Shares in seven listed group companies of Adani lost $10.73 billion in market capitalisation in India on Wednesday after the US short-seller released the report, which accused the conglomerate of improper use of offshore tax havens.

Hindenburg's report also said it held short positions in Adani Group through its US-traded bonds and non-Indian-traded derivative instruments.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-adani-slammed-by-45-billion-stock-rout-clouding-record-share-sale-556502">India: Adani Group shares tank, rout touches $45 billion, clouding record share sale</a>

Adani Group has said that it is &nbsp;evaluating "remedial and punitive action" against Hindenburg, calling the report "maliciously mischievous, (and) unresearched".

Shortly after, Hindenburg said it will demand documents in legal discovery process if Adani Group files a lawsuit in the United States.

"Adani's response to Hindenburg is the same as Herbalife's response to our original 350-page presentation. Herbalife remains a pyramid scheme. I found the Hindenburg report highly credible and extremely well researched," Pershing Square boss Ackman said in a tweet on Thursday.

"We are not invested long or short in any of the Adani companies or Herbalife, nor have we done our own independent research," he added.

WATCH | WION Dispatch: Adani Power and Wilmar shares hit lower brands

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-adani-power-and-wilmar-shares-hit-lower-brands-556589/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ackman bet $1 billion against Herbalife starting in 2012, saying it violated Chinese direct-selling laws and was a pyramid scheme.

He exited his short in Herbalife at a loss in 2018 when his bets went awry, with the shares of the weight management and nutrition company rising more than 150%.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Billionaire US investor Bill Ackman said on Thursday that he found short-seller Hindenburg Research's report on India's Adani Group "highly credible and extremely well researched".

Billionaire US investor Bill Ackman said on Thursday that he found short-seller Hindenburg Research's report on India's Adani Group "highly credible and extremely well researched". Shares in seven listed group companies of Adani lost $10.73 billion in market capitalisation in India on Wednesday after the US short-seller released the report, which accused the conglomerate of improper use of offshore tax havens. Hindenburg's report also said it held short positions in Adani Group through its US-traded bonds and non-Indian-traded derivative instruments. ALSO READ | India: Adani Group shares tank, rout touches $45 billion, clouding record share sale Adani Group has said that it is evaluating "remedial and punitive action" against Hindenburg, calling the report "maliciously mischievous, (and) unresearched". Shortly after, Hindenburg said it will demand documents in legal discovery process if Adani Group files a lawsuit in the United States. "Adani's response to Hindenburg is the same as Herbalife's response to our original 350-page presentation. Herbalife remains a pyramid scheme. I found the Hindenburg report highly credible and extremely well researched," Pershing Square boss Ackman said in a tweet on Thursday. "We are not invested long or short in any of the Adani companies or Herbalife, nor have we done our own independent research," he added. WATCH | WION Dispatch: Adani Power and Wilmar shares hit lower brands Ackman bet $1 billion against Herbalife starting in 2012, saying it violated Chinese direct-selling laws and was a pyramid scheme. He exited his short in Herbalife at a loss in 2018 when his bets went awry, with the shares of the weight management and nutrition company rising more than 150%. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bill Ackman says Hindenburg's Adani report 'highly credible'

Pakistan's Finance Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday called Pakistan as the sole country established in the name of Islam and said that Allah is responsible for the country's prosperity and development in the wake of the current financial crisis.

Speaking at Green Line Express Train service's inaugural ceremony, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) senior leader said that he believes that Pakistan will surely progress as the country has been created in the name of Islam.

&nbsp;"If Allah can create Pakistan then He can also protect, develop, and make it prosper," said Dar. &nbsp;"They are trying their best to improve Pakistan's condition under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's leadership," added the finance minister.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-imran-khans-party-uses-pm-modis-old-clip-to-target-pak-govt-funny-part-is-553230">WATCH| Imran Khan's party uses PM Modi's old clip to target Pak govt, funny part is....</a>

Dar said that several problems were inherited by the incumbent government from the previous government which was led by Imran Khan, and added that the government has been working day and night to resolve the crisis.&nbsp;

"The team is trying to improve the situation ahead of the elections," he said. He added that the nation is still suffering because of the "drama" which started five years ago and stated that the economy was strong during the tenure of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif from 2013-2017.&nbsp;

The finance minister called the Pakistan Stock Exchange as South Asia's best-performing capital market and stated that it ranked fifth in the world during the era of Nawaz Sharif and the world institutions' sights were set on it.

Dar added that the nation is paying the price for the "Panama drama", the PML-N government's ouster and similar issues which the country has faced in the last five years.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;WION Dispatch: Pakistan left with only three-weeks of forex cover

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-pakistan-left-with-only-three-weeks-of-forex-cover-555235/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;"Pakistan was on the growth track during Nawaz's tenure, but it was derailed. People can see the destruction the country suffered in the last five years, and they know who has delivered in the past," the minister added.

Pakistan, which is dealing with an acute balance of payments crisis, is desperate to get external financing, as less than three weeks' worth of import cover is left in its foreign exchange reserves, which witnessed a decline from USD 923 million to USD 3.68 billion.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Pakistan's Finance Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday called Pakistan as the sole country established in the name of Islam and said that Allah is responsible for the country's prosperity and development in the wake of the current financial crisis.

Pakistan's Finance Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday called Pakistan as the sole country established in the name of Islam and said that Allah is responsible for the country's prosperity and development in the wake of the current financial crisis. Speaking at Green Line Express Train service's inaugural ceremony, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) senior leader said that he believes that Pakistan will surely progress as the country has been created in the name of Islam. "If Allah can create Pakistan then He can also protect, develop, and make it prosper," said Dar. "They are trying their best to improve Pakistan's condition under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's leadership," added the finance minister. ALSO READ | WATCH| Imran Khan's party uses PM Modi's old clip to target Pak govt, funny part is.... Dar said that several problems were inherited by the incumbent government from the previous government which was led by Imran Khan, and added that the government has been working day and night to resolve the crisis. "The team is trying to improve the situation ahead of the elections," he said. He added that the nation is still suffering because of the "drama" which started five years ago and stated that the economy was strong during the tenure of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif from 2013-2017. The finance minister called the Pakistan Stock Exchange as South Asia's best-performing capital market and stated that it ranked fifth in the world during the era of Nawaz Sharif and the world institutions' sights were set on it. Dar added that the nation is paying the price for the "Panama drama", the PML-N government's ouster and similar issues which the country has faced in the last five years. WATCH | WION Dispatch: Pakistan left with only three-weeks of forex cover "Pakistan was on the growth track during Nawaz's tenure, but it was derailed. People can see the destruction the country suffered in the last five years, and they know who has delivered in the past," the minister added. Pakistan, which is dealing with an acute balance of payments crisis, is desperate to get external financing, as less than three weeks' worth of import cover is left in its foreign exchange reserves, which witnessed a decline from USD 923 million to USD 3.68 billion. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Allah responsible for prosperity and development of Pakistan, says Finance Minister Dar

Tennessee high school students created a robotic hand to help a classmate whose right hand was not fully formed, in an act of friendship which the latter hailed as 'life-changing'.

Sergio Peralta, who got admitted to Henderson high school near Nashville in the fall, always tried to cover up his right hand which was not fully formed, reported CBS News.&nbsp;

“As I was growing up, like during my first years of school, I had a lot of people asked me what’s wrong with … my hand, lots of people, and I used to just say even in kindergarten, ‘I was born like that',” stated the 15-year-old Sergio.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/this-real-life-terminator-robot-can-liquify-and-solidify-on-command-556511">This real life 'Terminator' robot can liquify and solidify on command</a>

“In the first days of school (at Henderson), I honestly felt like hiding my hand – like nobody would ever find out," he added.&nbsp;

However, Sergio’s engineering teacher Jeff Wilkins learned about the boy's right hand eventually and assured him that his classmates might be able to help him.&nbsp;

In four weeks, the classmates designed, sized and 3D printed a prosthetic hand for Sergio, which changed his life. Sergio, for the first time, used the new prosthetic to catch a ball using his right hand. &nbsp;

He said that although he grew up without a fully formed right hand, he used to do “almost everything”. He added that only after getting the prosthetic, &nbsp;he was able to catch a ball using his right hand.&nbsp;

Henderson student Leslie Jaramillio said that the spirit of engineering class was embodied in the project. &nbsp;“You’re supposed to be engineering, coming up with new ideas, solving issues,” Jaramillo added.&nbsp;

WATCH | The rise of bots: An automated system with a humanoid robot

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-rise-of-bots-an-automated-system-with-a-humanoid-robot-470766/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Principal Bob Cotter, &nbsp;while speaking to BBC, said that Wilkins and his students faced the challenge to turn abstract concepts “into reality”. He added that the robotic hand of Sergio “is a testament to the students … who care about each other and the program that Jeff Wilkins has built”.

Sergio, speaking to CBS, said he had never expected such kindness and creativity from his classmates “in a million years”.

“I didn’t know them, so I actually got introduced to them by the teacher. And then that’s what I started working on, and I got to be friends with them. Living without a hand for 15 years and they actually offered me two is (something) actually pretty cool. No one has ever offered me this stuff – (it) changed my life," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Tennessee high school students created a robotic hand to help a classmate whose right hand was not fully formed, in an act of friendship which the latter hailed as 'life-changing'.

Tennessee high school students created a robotic hand to help a classmate whose right hand was not fully formed, in an act of friendship which the latter hailed as 'life-changing'. Sergio Peralta, who got admitted to Henderson high school near Nashville in the fall, always tried to cover up his right hand which was not fully formed, reported CBS News. “As I was growing up, like during my first years of school, I had a lot of people asked me what’s wrong with … my hand, lots of people, and I used to just say even in kindergarten, ‘I was born like that',” stated the 15-year-old Sergio. ALSO READ | This real life 'Terminator' robot can liquify and solidify on command “In the first days of school (at Henderson), I honestly felt like hiding my hand – like nobody would ever find out," he added. However, Sergio’s engineering teacher Jeff Wilkins learned about the boy's right hand eventually and assured him that his classmates might be able to help him. In four weeks, the classmates designed, sized and 3D printed a prosthetic hand for Sergio, which changed his life. Sergio, for the first time, used the new prosthetic to catch a ball using his right hand. He said that although he grew up without a fully formed right hand, he used to do “almost everything”. He added that only after getting the prosthetic, he was able to catch a ball using his right hand. Henderson student Leslie Jaramillio said that the spirit of engineering class was embodied in the project. “You’re supposed to be engineering, coming up with new ideas, solving issues,” Jaramillo added. WATCH | The rise of bots: An automated system with a humanoid robot Principal Bob Cotter, while speaking to BBC, said that Wilkins and his students faced the challenge to turn abstract concepts “into reality”. He added that the robotic hand of Sergio “is a testament to the students … who care about each other and the program that Jeff Wilkins has built”. Sergio, speaking to CBS, said he had never expected such kindness and creativity from his classmates “in a million years”. “I didn’t know them, so I actually got introduced to them by the teacher. And then that’s what I started working on, and I got to be friends with them. Living without a hand for 15 years and they actually offered me two is (something) actually pretty cool. No one has ever offered me this stuff – (it) changed my life," he added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

High school students create robotic hand to help classmate in Tennessee

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon on Thursday said that the transgender woman, who has been held guilty of raping two women before transition, won’t serve the sentence in the only all-female prison in Scotland.&nbsp;

Isla Bryson, aged 31, who was earlier known as Adam Graham, was held guilty of raping two women in 2016 and 2019 by the High Court in Glasgow on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Bryson, who decided to change gender during the trial at the age of 29, was to be kept in Cornton Vale women’s prison ahead of the prison sentence to be announced next month which led to widespread public anger.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-supreme-court-blocks-scotland-from-holding-second-independence-referendum-536746">UK Supreme Court blocks Scotland from holding second independence referendum</a>

The case comes in the wake of legislation passed last month by Sturgeon’s devolved government which made it easier for citizens to self-identify their gender.&nbsp;

The law has been subsequently been blocked by the government of the United Kingdom from obtaining royal assent, citing that it may have a negative impact on equalities legislation.&nbsp;

“Given the understandable public and parliamentary concern in this case, I can confirm to parliament that this prisoner will not be incarcerated at Cornton Vale women’s prison,” said Sturgeon while speaking at Scotland’s devolved parliament.

“I hope that provides assurance to the public, not least the victims in this particular case," she added.&nbsp;

According to Scottish media, Sturgeon has been forced to take a “humiliating U-turn”.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Scottish Independence Referendum: 'People of Scotland have the right to choose'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scottish-independence-referendum-people-of-scotland-have-the-right-to-choose-488486/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Bryson, amid court proceedings, claimed that he wished to change his gender from the age of four and is currently looking out for surgery to do gender reassignment.

However, the convict's motives behind such a decision were questioned by Bryson’s estranged wife Shonna Graham.&nbsp;

While speaking to the Daily Mail, she said that Bryson “never once” mentioned feeling “in the wrong body or anything” and added that it was a “sham for attention”.&nbsp;

Labour MP and UK’s shadow interior minister Yvette Cooper, while speaking to BBC Radio on Thursday, said, “This dangerous rapist should not be in a women’s prison.”

“That is straightforward and I think most people would agree with that," she added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon on Thursday said that the transgender woman, who has been held guilty of raping two women before transition, won’t serve the sentence in the only all-female prison in Scotland.

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon on Thursday said that the transgender woman, who has been held guilty of raping two women before transition, won’t serve the sentence in the only all-female prison in Scotland. Isla Bryson, aged 31, who was earlier known as Adam Graham, was held guilty of raping two women in 2016 and 2019 by the High Court in Glasgow on Tuesday. Bryson, who decided to change gender during the trial at the age of 29, was to be kept in Cornton Vale women’s prison ahead of the prison sentence to be announced next month which led to widespread public anger. ALSO READ | UK Supreme Court blocks Scotland from holding second independence referendum The case comes in the wake of legislation passed last month by Sturgeon’s devolved government which made it easier for citizens to self-identify their gender. The law has been subsequently been blocked by the government of the United Kingdom from obtaining royal assent, citing that it may have a negative impact on equalities legislation. “Given the understandable public and parliamentary concern in this case, I can confirm to parliament that this prisoner will not be incarcerated at Cornton Vale women’s prison,” said Sturgeon while speaking at Scotland’s devolved parliament. “I hope that provides assurance to the public, not least the victims in this particular case," she added. According to Scottish media, Sturgeon has been forced to take a “humiliating U-turn”. WATCH | Scottish Independence Referendum: 'People of Scotland have the right to choose' Bryson, amid court proceedings, claimed that he wished to change his gender from the age of four and is currently looking out for surgery to do gender reassignment. However, the convict's motives behind such a decision were questioned by Bryson’s estranged wife Shonna Graham. While speaking to the Daily Mail, she said that Bryson “never once” mentioned feeling “in the wrong body or anything” and added that it was a “sham for attention”. Labour MP and UK’s shadow interior minister Yvette Cooper, while speaking to BBC Radio on Thursday, said, “This dangerous rapist should not be in a women’s prison.” “That is straightforward and I think most people would agree with that," she added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Scotland: Transgender rapist to be moved to men's jail, says minister Sturgeon

In one of the closest encounters ever recorded, a delivery-truck size asteroid passed by Earth coming as close as a tenth of the distance of the orbit of communication satellites. Known as 2023 BU, it flew over the southern tip of South America just before 00:30 am GMT.

With a closest approach of 3,600 km (2,200 miles), it was too close for comfort.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-few-hours-a-1600-ft-wide-asteroid-will-come-close-to-earth-say-scientists-478358">In a few hours, 1,600-ft wide asteroid will come close to Earth, say scientists</a>

The passing of an asteroid would be a near miss but will not get any chance to hit the Earth, said NASA. The scientists said that even if the asteroid came closer to the earth, the atmosphere would burn most of it and the bigger pieces may fall on earth as meteorites.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A newly discovered asteroid, named 2023 BU, is expected to make one of the closet approaches by a near-Earth object ever recorded. Thanks to diligent teams of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/planetarydefense?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#planetarydefense</a> experts, we know It poses zero risk to Earth. 
 
Learn why: <a href="https://t.co/MBLpHqb7h7">https://t.co/MBLpHqb7h7</a> <a href="https://t.co/j9McEGrOVm">pic.twitter.com/j9McEGrOVm</a>
— NASA Asteroid Watch (@AsteroidWatch) <a href="https://twitter.com/AsteroidWatch/status/1618381263035052033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The impact hazard assessment system of NASA, called Scout, ruled out any strike quickly, its developer Davide Farnocchia said, who is also an engineer at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California of the agency.

“But despite the very few observations, it was nonetheless able to predict that the asteroid would make an extraordinarily close approach with Earth. In fact, this is one of the closest approaches by a known near-Earth object ever recorded,” he added.&nbsp;

The asteroid, which was discovered on Saturday, is also called 2023 BU, and is estimated to be between 11ft (3.5m) and 28ft (8.5m) across.&nbsp;

WATCH | September 26: NASA is all set to clobber an asteroid with spacecraft dart

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/september-26-nasa-is-all-set-to-clobber-an-asteroid-with-spacecraft-dart-518796/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Crimea's amateur astronomer Gennady Borisov had first spotted it, who had also discovered an interstellar comet in 2019.&nbsp;

In a few days, astronomers across the world made dozens of observations which allowed them to redefine the path of the asteroid. As it will pass, the asteroid's path will be altered drastically by the gravity of the Earth.&nbsp;

According to NASA, the asteroid instead of circling around the sun every 359 days, will remain for 425 days in an oval orbit.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

In one of the closest encounters ever recorded, a delivery-truck size asteroid passed by Earth coming as close as a tenth of the distance of the orbit of communication satellites.

In one of the closest encounters ever recorded, a delivery-truck size asteroid passed by Earth coming as close as a tenth of the distance of the orbit of communication satellites. Known as 2023 BU, it flew over the southern tip of South America just before 00:30 am GMT. With a closest approach of 3,600 km (2,200 miles), it was too close for comfort. ALSO READ | In a few hours, 1,600-ft wide asteroid will come close to Earth, say scientists The passing of an asteroid would be a near miss but will not get any chance to hit the Earth, said NASA. The scientists said that even if the asteroid came closer to the earth, the atmosphere would burn most of it and the bigger pieces may fall on earth as meteorites. A newly discovered asteroid, named 2023 BU, is expected to make one of the closet approaches by a near-Earth object ever recorded. Thanks to diligent teams of #planetarydefense experts, we know It poses zero risk to Earth. Learn why: https://t.co/MBLpHqb7h7 pic.twitter.com/j9McEGrOVm — NASA Asteroid Watch (@AsteroidWatch) January 25, 2023 × The impact hazard assessment system of NASA, called Scout, ruled out any strike quickly, its developer Davide Farnocchia said, who is also an engineer at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California of the agency. “But despite the very few observations, it was nonetheless able to predict that the asteroid would make an extraordinarily close approach with Earth. In fact, this is one of the closest approaches by a known near-Earth object ever recorded,” he added. The asteroid, which was discovered on Saturday, is also called 2023 BU, and is estimated to be between 11ft (3.5m) and 28ft (8.5m) across. WATCH | September 26: NASA is all set to clobber an asteroid with spacecraft dart Crimea's amateur astronomer Gennady Borisov had first spotted it, who had also discovered an interstellar comet in 2019. In a few days, astronomers across the world made dozens of observations which allowed them to redefine the path of the asteroid. As it will pass, the asteroid's path will be altered drastically by the gravity of the Earth. According to NASA, the asteroid instead of circling around the sun every 359 days, will remain for 425 days in an oval orbit. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Truck-sized asteroid passes by Earth in one of the closest encounters ever

A Ukrainian official appreciated the decision of the United States and Germany to provide advanced battle tanks to Kyiv to tackle Russia's aggression, however, he called these commitments “only the beginning” adding that the embattled country needs more than hundreds of tanks and further appealed for more fighter jets.&nbsp;

The head of the presidential administration of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, made the statement as the Western allies' decision was praised by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, appealing to them to quickly send tanks in large quantities.&nbsp;

“The key now is speed and volumes. Speed in training our forces, speed in supplying tanks to Ukraine. The numbers in tank support,” Zelenskyy said on Wednesday night in his video address.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-all-set-to-send-leopard-2-tanks-to-ukraine-report-suggests-555700">Germany finally approves delivery of Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine on prodding by allies</a>

US and Germany to provide tanks to Ukraine

After speculations for weeks, US President Joe Biden approved providing Ukraine with 31 M1 Abrams tanks. The US changed its position after confirmation by Germany that it would send 14 Leopard 2A6 tanks to Ukraine, and will also allow partner countries to re-export other tanks.&nbsp;

The decision taken by Berlin unlocked offers made by Portugal, Norway, Spain, Finland and the Netherlands to send their own Leopard tanks, which were manufactured in Germany, to Ukraine.&nbsp;

Ukrainian president celebrated the “extremely good news”, as he called the decision taken by the US a “very powerful step”. “There is a tank coalition. There is a decision to launch the supply of tanks for our defence. Modern tanks,” he stated.&nbsp;

Ukraine is likely to receive Leopard 2 tanks' first instalment in three months. Zelenskyy added that he held a conversation with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and appealed to send long-range missiles and aircraft to Ukraine.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | War in Ukraine: Ukraine asks for special tanks ahead of Russia's new assault

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-war-in-ukraine-ukraine-asks-for-special-tanks-ahead-of-russias-new-assault-554942/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

'Fighter jets – next big hurdle'

Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said that he held talks with his Polish counterpart and appealed for more fighter jets.&nbsp;

Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov's adviser Yuriy Sak said that for the country fighter jets would be “the next big hurdle”.&nbsp;

“If we get them, the advantages on the battlefield will be just immense. It’s not just F-16s. Fourth generation aircraft, this is what we want,” he stated.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A Ukrainian official appreciated the decision of the United States and Germany to provide advanced battle tanks to Kyiv to tackle Russia's aggression, however, he called these commitments “only the beginning” adding that the embattled country needs more than hundreds of tanks and further appealed for more fighter jets.

A Ukrainian official appreciated the decision of the United States and Germany to provide advanced battle tanks to Kyiv to tackle Russia's aggression, however, he called these commitments “only the beginning” adding that the embattled country needs more than hundreds of tanks and further appealed for more fighter jets. The head of the presidential administration of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, made the statement as the Western allies' decision was praised by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, appealing to them to quickly send tanks in large quantities. “The key now is speed and volumes. Speed in training our forces, speed in supplying tanks to Ukraine. The numbers in tank support,” Zelenskyy said on Wednesday night in his video address. ALSO READ | Germany finally approves delivery of Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine on prodding by allies US and Germany to provide tanks to Ukraine After speculations for weeks, US President Joe Biden approved providing Ukraine with 31 M1 Abrams tanks. The US changed its position after confirmation by Germany that it would send 14 Leopard 2A6 tanks to Ukraine, and will also allow partner countries to re-export other tanks. The decision taken by Berlin unlocked offers made by Portugal, Norway, Spain, Finland and the Netherlands to send their own Leopard tanks, which were manufactured in Germany, to Ukraine. Ukrainian president celebrated the “extremely good news”, as he called the decision taken by the US a “very powerful step”. “There is a tank coalition. There is a decision to launch the supply of tanks for our defence. Modern tanks,” he stated. Ukraine is likely to receive Leopard 2 tanks' first instalment in three months. Zelenskyy added that he held a conversation with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and appealed to send long-range missiles and aircraft to Ukraine. WATCH | WION Fineprint | War in Ukraine: Ukraine asks for special tanks ahead of Russia's new assault 'Fighter jets – next big hurdle' Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba said that he held talks with his Polish counterpart and appealed for more fighter jets. Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksiy Reznikov's adviser Yuriy Sak said that for the country fighter jets would be “the next big hurdle”. “If we get them, the advantages on the battlefield will be just immense. It’s not just F-16s. Fourth generation aircraft, this is what we want,” he stated. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine calls pledges made by US and Germany to send tanks 'only the beginning'

An eight-year-old prodigy from Bengaluru, Rishi Shiv Prasanna, was among the few people who received the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar Award.&nbsp;

The award was presented to Prasanna by President Droupadi Murmu after he successfully developed three Android applications as an 8-year-old kid. According to media reports, the intelligence quotient (IQ) of Prasanna is even higher than Albert Einstein, who was believed to have an IQ of 160.&nbsp;

Prasanna owns a certificate for having an IQ of 180 which is very high compared to the benchmark of 85-115 usually seen in normal people.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-name-21-islands-after-top-military-honour-awardees-554779">India to name 21 islands of Andaman Nicobar after Param Vir Chakra awardees</a>

IQ is a standard measure to understand a person's intelligence and people with an IQ of 130 are generally believed to be super intelligent.&nbsp;

The eight-year-old kid is Mensa International's youngest member. It is a very prestigious society which constitutes of members with very high IQs.

Prasanna is also the youngest YouTuber at the age of eight and information on topics related to science is shared by him in his YouTube videos.&nbsp;

The boy is deeply interested in the scientific field and if reports are to be believed, Prasanna started discussing planets, the universe and solar systems at the age of three.

WATCH | Indian government confers top honour on Sri Lankan newspaper publisher, Sivakumar Nadesan

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-government-confers-top-honour-on-sri-lankan-newspaper-publisher-sivakumar-nadesan-550635/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

At the age of five, the boy learned coding and developed various user-friendly applications. Three applications called “Countries of the world", “CHB” and“IQ Test App" for kids were developed by him.

“You can only gain knowledge when you read a lot of books. When you study you get answers to all the questions and there will be no fear in answering any kind of question. If you do not read a book every two hours, then you will be illiterate for the next four hours. I want to be a scientist in the future and wish to contribute to society and the country," said Prasanna in 2021, while speaking at an interaction programme.&nbsp;

The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar was conferred by President Droupadi Murmu to 11 children this year. This honour is conferred on children, who fall between the age group of 5-18 years, and have achieved excellence in various fields and have made exceptional achievements.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

An eight-year-old prodigy from Bengaluru, Rishi Shiv Prasanna, was among the few people who received the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar Award.

An eight-year-old prodigy from Bengaluru, Rishi Shiv Prasanna, was among the few people who received the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar Award. The award was presented to Prasanna by President Droupadi Murmu after he successfully developed three Android applications as an 8-year-old kid. According to media reports, the intelligence quotient (IQ) of Prasanna is even higher than Albert Einstein, who was believed to have an IQ of 160. Prasanna owns a certificate for having an IQ of 180 which is very high compared to the benchmark of 85-115 usually seen in normal people. ALSO READ | India to name 21 islands of Andaman Nicobar after Param Vir Chakra awardees IQ is a standard measure to understand a person's intelligence and people with an IQ of 130 are generally believed to be super intelligent. The eight-year-old kid is Mensa International's youngest member. It is a very prestigious society which constitutes of members with very high IQs. Prasanna is also the youngest YouTuber at the age of eight and information on topics related to science is shared by him in his YouTube videos. The boy is deeply interested in the scientific field and if reports are to be believed, Prasanna started discussing planets, the universe and solar systems at the age of three. WATCH | Indian government confers top honour on Sri Lankan newspaper publisher, Sivakumar Nadesan At the age of five, the boy learned coding and developed various user-friendly applications. Three applications called “Countries of the world", “CHB” and“IQ Test App" for kids were developed by him. “You can only gain knowledge when you read a lot of books. When you study you get answers to all the questions and there will be no fear in answering any kind of question. If you do not read a book every two hours, then you will be illiterate for the next four hours. I want to be a scientist in the future and wish to contribute to society and the country," said Prasanna in 2021, while speaking at an interaction programme. The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar was conferred by President Droupadi Murmu to 11 children this year. This honour is conferred on children, who fall between the age group of 5-18 years, and have achieved excellence in various fields and have made exceptional achievements. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Rishi Shiv, 8-year-old prodigy and recipient of Bal Puraskar, has IQ higher than Albert Einstein?

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated by Google with a doodle illustration made by Ahmedabad artist Parth Kothekar.&nbsp;

The Constitution was adopted by India on January 26, 1950, which declared the nation a republic, sovereign and democratic state.&nbsp;

The Republic Day Google Doodle which has been used this year is a hand-cut design featuring the Republic Day parade's elements like India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, the CRFP marching contingent as well as motorcycle riders.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/republic-day-2023-this-years-r-day-parade-21-gun-salute-will-be-different-heres-why-556002">Republic Day 2023: This year’s R-Day parade 21-gun salute will be different. Here’s why</a>

"Today’s Doodle artwork is crafted from intricately hand-cut paper. Many elements of the Republic Day parade are represented in the artwork including the Rashtrapati Bhavan (where the president resides), the India Gate, the CRFP marching contingent, and motorcycle riders," Google Doodle stated.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
New Google Doodle has been released: "India Republic Day 2023" :)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/google?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#google</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/doodle?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#doodle</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/design?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#design</a><a href="https://t.co/mHjtmpLDOf">https://t.co/mHjtmpLDOf</a> <a href="https://t.co/ouV8ZEJl93">pic.twitter.com/ouV8ZEJl93</a>
— Google Doodles EN (@Doodle123_EN) <a href="https://twitter.com/Doodle123_EN/status/1618326653205155840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

While talking about the Republic Day Google Doodle, Kothekar stated, "My inspiration was to create a portrait of India. The exhibition that takes place during the Republic Day parade is vast and humbling! I wished to weave various strands and elements of it together."

"During my school days, every year I would be mesmerised by the Republic Day parade. Receiving this opportunity enlivened that fascination and I thoroughly enjoyed diving into it as I went into details of every facet displayed on the papercut. I learned a lot through this process,” the artist added.&nbsp;

The behind-the-scenes video of the Republic Day Google Doodle being created by Kothekar was shared by Google Doodle.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;India prepares for its 72nd Republic Day

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-prepares-for-its-72nd-republic-day-359029/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The complete Google Doodle shared on Republic Day was completed by Kothekar in 4 days, as he worked 6 hours a day. "I wanted to demonstrate the complexity of India, with all of its interconnected facets!" stated Kothekar.&nbsp;

India is celebrating its 74th Republic Day on Thursday. Egypt's President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi is present as the chief guest for the Republic Day celebrations this year. The theme of Republic Day this year is 'Jan Bhagidari'.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated by Google with a doodle illustration made by Ahmedabad artist Parth Kothekar. The Constitution was adopted by India on January 26, 1950, which declared the nation a republic, sovereign and democratic state.

The 74th Republic Day was celebrated by Google with a doodle illustration made by Ahmedabad artist Parth Kothekar. The Constitution was adopted by India on January 26, 1950, which declared the nation a republic, sovereign and democratic state. The Republic Day Google Doodle which has been used this year is a hand-cut design featuring the Republic Day parade's elements like India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan, the CRFP marching contingent as well as motorcycle riders. ALSO READ | Republic Day 2023: This year’s R-Day parade 21-gun salute will be different. Here’s why "Today’s Doodle artwork is crafted from intricately hand-cut paper. Many elements of the Republic Day parade are represented in the artwork including the Rashtrapati Bhavan (where the president resides), the India Gate, the CRFP marching contingent, and motorcycle riders," Google Doodle stated. New Google Doodle has been released: "India Republic Day 2023" :)#google #doodle #designhttps://t.co/mHjtmpLDOf pic.twitter.com/ouV8ZEJl93 — Google Doodles EN (@Doodle123_EN) January 25, 2023 × While talking about the Republic Day Google Doodle, Kothekar stated, "My inspiration was to create a portrait of India. The exhibition that takes place during the Republic Day parade is vast and humbling! I wished to weave various strands and elements of it together." "During my school days, every year I would be mesmerised by the Republic Day parade. Receiving this opportunity enlivened that fascination and I thoroughly enjoyed diving into it as I went into details of every facet displayed on the papercut. I learned a lot through this process,” the artist added. The behind-the-scenes video of the Republic Day Google Doodle being created by Kothekar was shared by Google Doodle. WATCH | India prepares for its 72nd Republic Day The complete Google Doodle shared on Republic Day was completed by Kothekar in 4 days, as he worked 6 hours a day. "I wanted to demonstrate the complexity of India, with all of its interconnected facets!" stated Kothekar. India is celebrating its 74th Republic Day on Thursday. Egypt's President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi is present as the chief guest for the Republic Day celebrations this year. The theme of Republic Day this year is 'Jan Bhagidari'. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Google Doodle uses illustration of Ahmedabad artist to celebrate India's 74th Republic Day

For the first time since 2020's second quarter, the economy of South Korea shrank in October-December as exports crashed while spending of consumers dipped due to inflation in interest rates, stated the central bank of the country on Thursday.&nbsp;

The Bank of Korea stated that in the last year's final quarter, the country's gross domestic product contracted by 0.4 per cent compared to the previous quarter.

The report of economic shrink comes after the borrowing costs were hiked for the tenth time by the Bank of Korea in a period of 18 months in early January, so as to tame inflation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-south-korea-plan-coordinated-response-against-north-koreas-nuclear-threat-549144">US, South Korea plan 'coordinated response' against North Korea's nuclear threat</a>

The economic figures can force monetary policymakers to decrease their pace of hikes, as central banks across the world are trying to slow their tightening moves as the effects of steps adopted last years kicks in.&nbsp;

However, the Bank of Korea's major concern continues to be inflation which hit five per cent in December.

"Private consumption fell 0.4 per cent due to a decrease in consumption of goods and services, (including) home appliances, clothing, accommodation, food and entertainment," stated the central bank, in a statement.

"Exports decreased by 5.8 per cent mainly in semiconductors and chemicals," the bank added.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: South Korea retaliates after Kim's 'air invasion'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-south-korea-retaliates-after-kims-air-invasion-547185/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the quarter, imports declined by 4.6 per cent because of a decrease in imports of crude oil and basic metals, the bank stated.&nbsp;

The economy still increased by 1.4 per cent on-year in the quarter and marked an increase of 2.6 per cent in the complete year of 2022.&nbsp;

As per the estimates of the central bank, the economy of the country will grow by 1.7 per cent in 2023 and inflation will increase by 3.6 per cent.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

For the first time since 2020's second quarter, the economy of South Korea shrank in October-December as exports crashed while spending of consumers dipped due to inflation in interest rates, stated the central bank of the country on Thursday.

For the first time since 2020's second quarter, the economy of South Korea shrank in October-December as exports crashed while spending of consumers dipped due to inflation in interest rates, stated the central bank of the country on Thursday. The Bank of Korea stated that in the last year's final quarter, the country's gross domestic product contracted by 0.4 per cent compared to the previous quarter. The report of economic shrink comes after the borrowing costs were hiked for the tenth time by the Bank of Korea in a period of 18 months in early January, so as to tame inflation. ALSO READ | US, South Korea plan 'coordinated response' against North Korea's nuclear threat The economic figures can force monetary policymakers to decrease their pace of hikes, as central banks across the world are trying to slow their tightening moves as the effects of steps adopted last years kicks in. However, the Bank of Korea's major concern continues to be inflation which hit five per cent in December. "Private consumption fell 0.4 per cent due to a decrease in consumption of goods and services, (including) home appliances, clothing, accommodation, food and entertainment," stated the central bank, in a statement. "Exports decreased by 5.8 per cent mainly in semiconductors and chemicals," the bank added. WATCH | Gravitas: South Korea retaliates after Kim's 'air invasion' In the quarter, imports declined by 4.6 per cent because of a decrease in imports of crude oil and basic metals, the bank stated. The economy still increased by 1.4 per cent on-year in the quarter and marked an increase of 2.6 per cent in the complete year of 2022. As per the estimates of the central bank, the economy of the country will grow by 1.7 per cent in 2023 and inflation will increase by 3.6 per cent. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

South Korea records first economic contraction since early 2020

A senior UN official was informed by the Taliban ministers that they will probably sketch new guidelines to permit women in Afghanistan to work in a few humanitarian operations.&nbsp;While speaking to the BBC, Martin Griffiths said that he had received "encouraging responses" from various Taliban ministers while holding talks with them in Kabul, even though the government has not yet reversed the ban imposed on Afghan women working in NGOs.&nbsp;

Since the women in Afghanistan play an important role in delivering aid, concerns have&nbsp; been raised that the ban is endangering the country's life-saving humanitarian operations.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghanistan-freezing-cold-temperatures-kills-at-least-124-people-taliban-confirms-555824">Afghanistan: Freezing cold has killed at least 124 people, confirm Taliban</a>

"It's worth remembering that, this year, Afghanistan is the biggest humanitarian aid programme in the world ever," said UN's Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Griffiths in Kabul.

Griffiths held back-to-back meetings with senior leaders of the Taliban government in Kabul and discussed the recent ban imposed on women in Afghanistan from working with NGOs.

"If women do not work in humanitarian operations, we do not reach, we do not count, the women and girls we need to listen to. In all humanitarian operations around the world, women and girls are the most vulnerable,” Griffiths said.&nbsp;

Hinting at positive development in future, he said that it looked like the Taliban ministers are “listening” and that “they told me they will be issuing new guidelines in due course which I hope will help us reinforce the role of women".

He also highlighted "a consistent pattern of Taliban leaders presenting us with exceptions, exemptions, and authorisations for women to work".&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Dog honoured for sniffing out Taliban bombs

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-dog-honoured-for-sniffing-out-taliban-bombs-555993/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Taliban government, which came to power in August 2021, had last month imposed a ban on women aid workers after banning girls from studying in university and high school in March.&nbsp;

Griffiths said that the operations of the United Nations would continue in Afghanistan, however, they are facing the concern of international donors not willing to commit big financial cost of aid which is approximately $4.6 billion a year.

"I lose sleep about this, I really do," he said, adding that, in the coming weeks, he would hold talks with donors to make them understand why Afghanistan requires help during the humanitarian crisis as 28 million people require aid and around 6 million are on the verge of famine.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A senior UN official was informed by the Taliban ministers that they will probably sketch new guidelines to permit women in Afghanistan to work in a few humanitarian operations.

A senior UN official was informed by the Taliban ministers that they will probably sketch new guidelines to permit women in Afghanistan to work in a few humanitarian operations. While speaking to the BBC, Martin Griffiths said that he had received "encouraging responses" from various Taliban ministers while holding talks with them in Kabul, even though the government has not yet reversed the ban imposed on Afghan women working in NGOs. Since the women in Afghanistan play an important role in delivering aid, concerns have been raised that the ban is endangering the country's life-saving humanitarian operations. ALSO READ | Afghanistan: Freezing cold has killed at least 124 people, confirm Taliban "It's worth remembering that, this year, Afghanistan is the biggest humanitarian aid programme in the world ever," said UN's Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Griffiths in Kabul. Griffiths held back-to-back meetings with senior leaders of the Taliban government in Kabul and discussed the recent ban imposed on women in Afghanistan from working with NGOs. "If women do not work in humanitarian operations, we do not reach, we do not count, the women and girls we need to listen to. In all humanitarian operations around the world, women and girls are the most vulnerable,” Griffiths said. Hinting at positive development in future, he said that it looked like the Taliban ministers are “listening” and that “they told me they will be issuing new guidelines in due course which I hope will help us reinforce the role of women". He also highlighted "a consistent pattern of Taliban leaders presenting us with exceptions, exemptions, and authorisations for women to work". WATCH | Gravitas: Dog honoured for sniffing out Taliban bombs The Taliban government, which came to power in August 2021, had last month imposed a ban on women aid workers after banning girls from studying in university and high school in March. Griffiths said that the operations of the United Nations would continue in Afghanistan, however, they are facing the concern of international donors not willing to commit big financial cost of aid which is approximately $4.6 billion a year. "I lose sleep about this, I really do," he said, adding that, in the coming weeks, he would hold talks with donors to make them understand why Afghanistan requires help during the humanitarian crisis as 28 million people require aid and around 6 million are on the verge of famine. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taliban to draw fresh guidelines for allowing Afghan women in aid work, says UN official

The Taliban arrested five men, which included two Chinese nationals, over the allegations of smuggling around 1,000 metric tonnes of lithium-bearing rocks out of Afghanistan, reported local media.&nbsp;According to reports, the Chinese nationals were attempting to smuggle the lithium rocks from Afghanistan to China through Pakistan with the help of their Afghan allies.&nbsp;

The men were arrested and the 'precious' stones were confiscated in Jalalabad, eastern Afghanistan's border city, according to Reporterly.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-to-draw-guidelines-on-womens-aid-work-in-afghanistan-says-un-556043">Taliban to draw guidelines on women's aid work in Afghanistan says UN</a>

As per the local sources, around 30 per cent of lithium was present in rocks and the smugglers had extracted them “secretly” from Nuristan and Kunar, two of various Afghan provinces that lie along the border shared with Pakistan.&nbsp;

According to Reporterly, the Chinese nationals had planned along with their Afghan collaborators to illegally transport the lithium rocks to China, stated the Taliban intelligence officials.

Since December 12, China and Afghanistan's relationship has become dicey when a hotel was targeted in a bomb and gun attack, in which five Chinese nationals were injured.&nbsp;

After the attack, Beijing adopted a tepid approach as China issued an advisory asking citizens to leave Afghanistan.&nbsp;

In November last year, Afghanistan was in talks with China over the rekindling of the ancient Silk Road for trade so as to help the country's dwindling economy.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: 1 year of Taliban rule in Afghanistan

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-1-year-of-taliban-rule-in-afghanistan-507212/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

When the Taliban came to power in Afghanistan on August 15, 2021, China stated that it is willing to extend friendly co-operation to the landlocked country.&nbsp;

The Chinese foreign ministry also expressed its intention to play a constructive role in Afghanistan. China had also emerged as the Taliban regime's trusted allies like Russia, Iran and Pakistan, stated the Al Arabia Post.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The Taliban arrested five men, which included two Chinese nationals, over the allegations of smuggling around 1,000 metric tonnes of lithium-bearing rocks out of Afghanistan, reported local media.

The Taliban arrested five men, which included two Chinese nationals, over the allegations of smuggling around 1,000 metric tonnes of lithium-bearing rocks out of Afghanistan, reported local media. According to reports, the Chinese nationals were attempting to smuggle the lithium rocks from Afghanistan to China through Pakistan with the help of their Afghan allies. The men were arrested and the 'precious' stones were confiscated in Jalalabad, eastern Afghanistan's border city, according to Reporterly. ALSO READ | Taliban to draw guidelines on women's aid work in Afghanistan says UN As per the local sources, around 30 per cent of lithium was present in rocks and the smugglers had extracted them “secretly” from Nuristan and Kunar, two of various Afghan provinces that lie along the border shared with Pakistan. According to Reporterly, the Chinese nationals had planned along with their Afghan collaborators to illegally transport the lithium rocks to China, stated the Taliban intelligence officials. Since December 12, China and Afghanistan's relationship has become dicey when a hotel was targeted in a bomb and gun attack, in which five Chinese nationals were injured. After the attack, Beijing adopted a tepid approach as China issued an advisory asking citizens to leave Afghanistan. In November last year, Afghanistan was in talks with China over the rekindling of the ancient Silk Road for trade so as to help the country's dwindling economy. WATCH | Gravitas: 1 year of Taliban rule in Afghanistan When the Taliban came to power in Afghanistan on August 15, 2021, China stated that it is willing to extend friendly co-operation to the landlocked country. The Chinese foreign ministry also expressed its intention to play a constructive role in Afghanistan. China had also emerged as the Taliban regime's trusted allies like Russia, Iran and Pakistan, stated the Al Arabia Post. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Two Chinese nationals arrested by Taliban for bid to smuggle 1,000MT of lithium rocks

In Pics | India showcases Made-in-India weapons systems at 74th Republic Day parade

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Prisha

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.