The central bank of Nepal on Friday banned the citizens from making investments in foreign nations, issuing a warning that strict punishment would be given in such a case.

The central bank, Nepal Rastra Bank, issued a notice saying that Nepalese nationals cannot purchase houses, debenture, land and property in a foreign land and cannot deposit money in financial institutions and foreign banks abroad.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-president-gives-one-week-deadline-to-parties-to-form-new-government-544275">Nepal president grants one-week time to parties for forming new government</a>

The notice specified that no one can make any kind of payment in a foreign nation except if the bank specifically mentions it under the provision.

The citizens were appealed by the central bank to not get themselves assigned any work which may require payment from abroad, except according to the prescribed rules.

The notice added that if rules are violated by anyone, the authorities will take strict action under the prevailing laws.

WATCH|&nbsp;WION Dispatch: Nepal President wants new PM by Christmas

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Last year in April, the central bank of Nepal banned the import of luxury items and vehicles citing receding foreign exchange reserves and liquidity crunch, despite the assurance of the government that the economy will not witness a crisis similar to Sri Lanka.

The total foreign exchange reserves of Nepal increased marginally in mid-December by around 3 per cent to reach USD 9.82 billion, which can be used to manage imports for 8.7 months, as per the central bank data.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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The central bank of Nepal on Friday banned the citizens from making investments in foreign nations, issuing a warning that strict punishment would be given in such a case.

The central bank of Nepal on Friday banned the citizens from making investments in foreign nations, issuing a warning that strict punishment would be given in such a case. The central bank, Nepal Rastra Bank, issued a notice saying that Nepalese nationals cannot purchase houses, debenture, land and property in a foreign land and cannot deposit money in financial institutions and foreign banks abroad. ALSO READ| Nepal president grants one-week time to parties for forming new government The notice specified that no one can make any kind of payment in a foreign nation except if the bank specifically mentions it under the provision. The citizens were appealed by the central bank to not get themselves assigned any work which may require payment from abroad, except according to the prescribed rules. The notice added that if rules are violated by anyone, the authorities will take strict action under the prevailing laws. WATCH| WION Dispatch: Nepal President wants new PM by Christmas Last year in April, the central bank of Nepal banned the import of luxury items and vehicles citing receding foreign exchange reserves and liquidity crunch, despite the assurance of the government that the economy will not witness a crisis similar to Sri Lanka. The total foreign exchange reserves of Nepal increased marginally in mid-December by around 3 per cent to reach USD 9.82 billion, which can be used to manage imports for 8.7 months, as per the central bank data. (With inputs from agencies)

Central bank bars Nepalese nationals from investing in foreign nations

Southern United States was lashed by severe storms and dozens of destructive tornadoes on Thursday, killing at least seven people.&nbsp;The National Weather Service stated that the region was hit by around 45 tornadoes in a day. Six people lost their lives in the storms that hit central Autauga County in Alabama, said deputy director of emergency services Gary Weaver.&nbsp;The city of Selma, which is an important place for the 1960s civil rights movement, witnessed the tornado tear through the downtown area, as trees fell and rooftops were ripped apart.

Mayor James Perkins said that "significant" damage was caused by the tornado and appealed to residents to keep their distance from downed power lines and prevent roads.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-come-closer-amid-worries-over-assertive-china-551737">US, Japan come closer amid worries over assertive China</a>

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey, in her tweet, said that she was "sad to have learned that six Alabamians were lost to the storms”. The storms and tornadoes also hit the neighbouring state of Georgia, as a six-year-old girl lost her life after a tree fell on her.

"Our entire family is heartbroken over this tragedy," Brian Kemp, governor of the state, tweeted. "As we continue to monitor state response to these storms, we are praying for this family as they mourn this terrible loss,” he added.

WATCH |&nbsp;Over 11, 300 flights delayed, cancelled in U.S. due to system outage

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Tornadoes, an extremely difficult weather phenomenon to predict, are very common in the United States, and they&nbsp;keeps on hitting the country’s central and southern parts. 
In November, Alabama and Mississippi were hit by 36 tornados, killing two people.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Southern United States was lashed by severe storms and dozens of destructive tornadoes on Thursday, killing at least seven people. The National Weather Service stated that the region was hit by around 45 tornadoes in a day.

Southern United States was lashed by severe storms and dozens of destructive tornadoes on Thursday, killing at least seven people. The National Weather Service stated that the region was hit by around 45 tornadoes in a day. Six people lost their lives in the storms that hit central Autauga County in Alabama, said deputy director of emergency services Gary Weaver. The city of Selma, which is an important place for the 1960s civil rights movement, witnessed the tornado tear through the downtown area, as trees fell and rooftops were ripped apart. Mayor James Perkins said that "significant" damage was caused by the tornado and appealed to residents to keep their distance from downed power lines and prevent roads. ALSO READ| US, Japan come closer amid worries over assertive China Alabama Governor Kay Ivey, in her tweet, said that she was "sad to have learned that six Alabamians were lost to the storms”. The storms and tornadoes also hit the neighbouring state of Georgia, as a six-year-old girl lost her life after a tree fell on her. "Our entire family is heartbroken over this tragedy," Brian Kemp, governor of the state, tweeted. "As we continue to monitor state response to these storms, we are praying for this family as they mourn this terrible loss,” he added. WATCH | Over 11, 300 flights delayed, cancelled in U.S. due to system outage Tornadoes, an extremely difficult weather phenomenon to predict, are very common in the United States, and they keeps on hitting the country’s central and southern parts. In November, Alabama and Mississippi were hit by 36 tornados, killing two people. (With inputs from agencies)

Severe 45 tornadoes and storms hammer southern United States, killing 7

South Africa’s Indian-origin freedom fighter and winner of National Orders Frene Noshir Ginwala died at the age of 90. In a statement, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that Ginwala left for her heavenly abode on Thursday evening.&nbsp;Ginwala had suffered a stroke a&nbsp;fortnight ago. She was a grandchild of one of the few Parsi families who belonged to India. She was sent to the UK for her studies by her parents before they settled in Mozambique, leaving South Africa.

After a ban was imposed on the ANC and the apartheid government arrested the High Command leaders in 1963, many ANC members, including Nelson Mandela, were helped by Ginwala.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/five-million-kids-die-before-fifth-birthday-mostly-in-sub-saharan-africa-and-south-asia-un-551574">Five million kids die before fifth birthday, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia: UN</a>

Ginwala also helped in establishing ANC in exile in Tanzania. She became the first parliamentary speaker of South Africa after Mandela became president of the first democratically-elected government in 1994.

“On behalf of the nation and of the legislative, executive and judicial components of the State, (I offer my) sincere condolences to Dr Ginwala’s family, her nephews Cyrus, Sohrab and Zavareh, and their families,” said Ramaphosa.

Ginwala, born on April 25, 1932, participated in the anti-apartheid struggle and fought for democratic dispensation of South Africa as an academic, lawyer, activist, journalist and political leader.

WATCH | WION Dispatch: South African police investigates an alleged plot to poison Eskom's CEO with Cyanide

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“Frene Ginwala epitomised the ethos and expectations of our then fledgling Constitution and played an important role in building the capacity of Parliament through the transformation of activists and leaders into lawmakers who were, in turn, able to transform our country,” said Ramaphosa said.

“Beyond African shores, she positioned our young democracy both as one that had as much to contribute to as it had to learn from global precedents and experience,” he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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South Africa’s Indian-origin freedom fighter and winner of National Orders Frene Noshir Ginwala died at the age of 90. In a statement, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that Ginwala left for her heavenly abode on Thursday evening.

South Africa’s Indian-origin freedom fighter and winner of National Orders Frene Noshir Ginwala died at the age of 90. In a statement, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that Ginwala left for her heavenly abode on Thursday evening. Ginwala had suffered a stroke a fortnight ago. She was a grandchild of one of the few Parsi families who belonged to India. She was sent to the UK for her studies by her parents before they settled in Mozambique, leaving South Africa. After a ban was imposed on the ANC and the apartheid government arrested the High Command leaders in 1963, many ANC members, including Nelson Mandela, were helped by Ginwala. ALSO READ| Five million kids die before fifth birthday, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia: UN Ginwala also helped in establishing ANC in exile in Tanzania. She became the first parliamentary speaker of South Africa after Mandela became president of the first democratically-elected government in 1994. “On behalf of the nation and of the legislative, executive and judicial components of the State, (I offer my) sincere condolences to Dr Ginwala’s family, her nephews Cyrus, Sohrab and Zavareh, and their families,” said Ramaphosa. Ginwala, born on April 25, 1932, participated in the anti-apartheid struggle and fought for democratic dispensation of South Africa as an academic, lawyer, activist, journalist and political leader. WATCH | WION Dispatch: South African police investigates an alleged plot to poison Eskom's CEO with Cyanide “Frene Ginwala epitomised the ethos and expectations of our then fledgling Constitution and played an important role in building the capacity of Parliament through the transformation of activists and leaders into lawmakers who were, in turn, able to transform our country,” said Ramaphosa said. “Beyond African shores, she positioned our young democracy both as one that had as much to contribute to as it had to learn from global precedents and experience,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian-origin South African freedom fighter Frene Ginwala dies at 90

Sri Lanka, which has been battling a severe economic crisis, is set to reduce its military by half, said the defence ministry on Friday as the government continues to take steps to overhaul its financial situation.&nbsp;For months, the nation has been facing fuel and food shortages that have made 22 million people’s life miserable from last year. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/growth-can-return-says-sri-lankan-fm-as-govt-aims-to-raise-8-billion-in-loans-expected-543181">‘Growth can return’, says Sri Lankan FM, as govt aims to raise $8 billion in loans</a>

Taxes have been increased and tough spending cuts have been imposed by President Ranil Wickremesinghe to clear the way for an anticipated bailout by International Monetary Fund following a government debt default.

The armed forces of Sri Lanka are next to face a drastic cut, as the defence ministry declared that 65,000 soldiers would retire from its 200,000-strong army in a year as part of its plan to downsize the land force of the country to 100,000 by the end of the decade.

"The overall aim of the strategic blueprint is to broach a technically and tactically sound and well-balanced defence force," said a ministry in a statement.

The armed forces of Sri Lanka remain bloated more than a decade after the traumatic civil war of the country. Last year, defence accounted for almost 10 per cent of public spending and expert analysts say that half of the salary bill of the government is used in paying for security force personnel.&nbsp; &nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus | Explained: Sri Lankan economic crisis

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This week, Sri Lanka issued a warning that it did not have enough revenue to clear the pensions and salaries of public employees even after a drastic increase in the tax in 2023.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Last year, the economy declined by 8.7 per cent as people faced blackouts, empty shelves of the supermarket, long queues for petrol, and runaway inflation.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Sri Lanka, which has been battling a severe economic crisis, is set to reduce its military by half, said the defence ministry on Friday as the government continues to take steps to overhaul its financial situation.

Sri Lanka, which has been battling a severe economic crisis, is set to reduce its military by half, said the defence ministry on Friday as the government continues to take steps to overhaul its financial situation. For months, the nation has been facing fuel and food shortages that have made 22 million people’s life miserable from last year. ALSO READ | ‘Growth can return’, says Sri Lankan FM, as govt aims to raise $8 billion in loans Taxes have been increased and tough spending cuts have been imposed by President Ranil Wickremesinghe to clear the way for an anticipated bailout by International Monetary Fund following a government debt default. The armed forces of Sri Lanka are next to face a drastic cut, as the defence ministry declared that 65,000 soldiers would retire from its 200,000-strong army in a year as part of its plan to downsize the land force of the country to 100,000 by the end of the decade. "The overall aim of the strategic blueprint is to broach a technically and tactically sound and well-balanced defence force," said a ministry in a statement. The armed forces of Sri Lanka remain bloated more than a decade after the traumatic civil war of the country. Last year, defence accounted for almost 10 per cent of public spending and expert analysts say that half of the salary bill of the government is used in paying for security force personnel. WATCH | Gravitas Plus | Explained: Sri Lankan economic crisis This week, Sri Lanka issued a warning that it did not have enough revenue to clear the pensions and salaries of public employees even after a drastic increase in the tax in 2023. Last year, the economy declined by 8.7 per cent as people faced blackouts, empty shelves of the supermarket, long queues for petrol, and runaway inflation. (With inputs from agencies)

Bankrupt Sri Lanka to drastically slash military by half amid looming economic crisis

An unexpected growth was registered in the economy of the UK in November as people splurged during the World Cup, stated official data on Friday as analysts warned the country may still face recession because of a crisis due to the high cost of living.&nbsp;

The Office for National Statistics (ONS), issued a statement, saying that even after several strikes, the country’s gross domestic product increased by 0.1 per cent in November. The ONS said that restaurants and pubs majorly boosted the economy as people visited places to watch football matches.

From October, the growth had slowed sharply, partly because of the workers’ strike. ONS’ director of economic statistics Darren Morgan, while speaking to BBC, said, “We definitely saw the impact of industrial action in today's figures.”

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uks-economy-shrinks-more-than-previously-thought-in-third-quarter-data-545630">UK's economy shrinks more than previously thought in third quarter: Data</a>

“We saw reasonably large falls in rail transport, postal work and warehousing and this sector had the biggest drag on the economy in November,” he added.

“The economy grew a little in November, with increases in telecommunications and computer programming helping to push the economy forward. Pubs and bars also did well as people went out to watch World Cup games,” Morgan said.

ONS further said that the UK economy declined by 0.3 per cent in the last three months, in comparison to the three-month period starting from August.

"Over the last three months ... the economy still shrank -- mainly due to the impact of the extra bank holiday for the funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth in September," Morgan stated.

The UK government as well as the Bank of England believe that the economy is already facing recession due to rocketing inflation.&nbsp;

WATCH | World Business Watch | UK economy bounces back after two months of recession

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Analyst Sophie Lund-Yates warned, "On a three-monthly basis, the UK still shrank, and a 0.1-per cent gain on a monthly basis smells heavily of stagnation, rather than real growth. The idea that the UK will formally enter a recession soon is still very much a likelihood.”

"The boost in November could stem from extra spending in the economy in the run up to Christmas, and there's real risk now that consumers are going to tighten their belts,” the analyst added.

Commenting on the UK economy’s crisis, CBI economist Alpesh Paleja said, "High inflation is severely impacting household budgets and businesses are facing intense cost pressures. As a result, consumer spending and investment plans are weakening. The question for the government now is not whether we will fall into recession, but how long and deep the recession will be."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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An unexpected growth was registered in the economy of the UK in November as people splurged during the World Cup, stated official data on Friday as analysts warned the country may still face recession because of a crisis due to the high cost of living.

An unexpected growth was registered in the economy of the UK in November as people splurged during the World Cup, stated official data on Friday as analysts warned the country may still face recession because of a crisis due to the high cost of living. The Office for National Statistics (ONS), issued a statement, saying that even after several strikes, the country’s gross domestic product increased by 0.1 per cent in November. The ONS said that restaurants and pubs majorly boosted the economy as people visited places to watch football matches. From October, the growth had slowed sharply, partly because of the workers’ strike. ONS’ director of economic statistics Darren Morgan, while speaking to BBC, said, “We definitely saw the impact of industrial action in today's figures.” ALSO READ| UK's economy shrinks more than previously thought in third quarter: Data “We saw reasonably large falls in rail transport, postal work and warehousing and this sector had the biggest drag on the economy in November,” he added. “The economy grew a little in November, with increases in telecommunications and computer programming helping to push the economy forward. Pubs and bars also did well as people went out to watch World Cup games,” Morgan said. ONS further said that the UK economy declined by 0.3 per cent in the last three months, in comparison to the three-month period starting from August. "Over the last three months ... the economy still shrank -- mainly due to the impact of the extra bank holiday for the funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth in September," Morgan stated. The UK government as well as the Bank of England believe that the economy is already facing recession due to rocketing inflation. WATCH | World Business Watch | UK economy bounces back after two months of recession Analyst Sophie Lund-Yates warned, "On a three-monthly basis, the UK still shrank, and a 0.1-per cent gain on a monthly basis smells heavily of stagnation, rather than real growth. The idea that the UK will formally enter a recession soon is still very much a likelihood.” "The boost in November could stem from extra spending in the economy in the run up to Christmas, and there's real risk now that consumers are going to tighten their belts,” the analyst added. Commenting on the UK economy’s crisis, CBI economist Alpesh Paleja said, "High inflation is severely impacting household budgets and businesses are facing intense cost pressures. As a result, consumer spending and investment plans are weakening. The question for the government now is not whether we will fall into recession, but how long and deep the recession will be." (With inputs from agencies)

UK economy registers 0.1 per cent increase in November; still, recession looms

Amazon has started to lay off staff in India, just days after its Chief Executive Andy Jassy announced worldwide job cuts, according to media reports.

While the job cuts were set to begin after January 18, the e-commerce giant informed affected employees by email and promised five-month severance pay.

Amazon plans to cut about 1 per cent of employees in India as part of its larger layoffs accounting for about 6 per cent of its workforce worldwide, totalling 18,000 jobs.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-amazon-to-restructure-warehouse-operations-closures-put-over-1000-jobs-at-risk-551220">UK: Amazon to restructure warehouse operations, closures put over 1,000 jobs at risk</a>

The employees in India were informed of their layoff by email and were asked to meet the leadership group for more clarity on the situation on a specific date.

Many employees laid off by Amazon in India took to social media sites, like LinkedIn and Twitter, looking for new opportunities.

WATCH|&nbsp;WION Business News | Amazon to freeze corporate hiring

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The layoffs were across cities in India, including new hires and experienced employees, with loss-making teams the most affected.

A separate Reuters report last week showed surging job cuts would make 2023 a challenging year for workforce diversity globally.

In recent years, big global firms stepped up hiring and prioritised diversity, equity and inclusion. But deep cost cuts, including layoffs, are risking corporate diversity pledges globally, which took years to take shape.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Amazon has started to lay off staff in India, just days after its Chief Executive Andy Jassy announced worldwide job cuts, according to media reports. While the job cuts were set to begin after January 18, the e-commerce giant informed affected employees by email and promised five-month severance pay.

Amazon has started to lay off staff in India, just days after its Chief Executive Andy Jassy announced worldwide job cuts, according to media reports. While the job cuts were set to begin after January 18, the e-commerce giant informed affected employees by email and promised five-month severance pay. Amazon plans to cut about 1 per cent of employees in India as part of its larger layoffs accounting for about 6 per cent of its workforce worldwide, totalling 18,000 jobs. ALSO READ| UK: Amazon to restructure warehouse operations, closures put over 1,000 jobs at risk The employees in India were informed of their layoff by email and were asked to meet the leadership group for more clarity on the situation on a specific date. Many employees laid off by Amazon in India took to social media sites, like LinkedIn and Twitter, looking for new opportunities. WATCH| WION Business News | Amazon to freeze corporate hiring The layoffs were across cities in India, including new hires and experienced employees, with loss-making teams the most affected. A separate Reuters report last week showed surging job cuts would make 2023 a challenging year for workforce diversity globally. In recent years, big global firms stepped up hiring and prioritised diversity, equity and inclusion. But deep cost cuts, including layoffs, are risking corporate diversity pledges globally, which took years to take shape. (With inputs from agencies)

Amazon begins job cuts in India, promises to pay 5-month severance

Biggest technological firms, Apple and Meta, which are known for giving the best perks and environment to their employees, failed to get a mention in the 100 Best Places to Work in 2023, listed by Glassdoor.&nbsp;This is the first time since 2009 that Apple failed to make its place in Glassdoor’s best places to work list besides Meta which was also consistently ranked in the list since 2011.

Both the companies, last year, were ranked in the middle, reported Bloomberg. The annual list released by Glassdoor is based on employees’ feedback about the company, at least 1,000 employees, that were submitted between October 19, 2021, to October 17, 2022.

Glassdoor’s lead economist Daniel Zhao, while speaking to Insider, said that this year’s ranking highlights common themes like communication, flexibility and transparency, and also indicates the perspectives of employees towards the economic outlook&nbsp;of the company.

WATCH|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/is-apple-going-back-on-its-word-touchscreen-for-macs-as-early-as-2025-551842">Is Apple going back on its word? Touchscreen for Macs as early as 2025</a>

"It's something that we get feedback on from employees because we know it's something that people care about and that's even more important at a time when the economy might be slowing down," said Zhao said.

"So I think this list is especially useful in that sense because we are considering how employees perceive their employers are doing,” he added.

"It becomes more important than ever for people to really understand the health of the company that they're going to, whether you're talking about financial health or cultural health," Zhao further stated. In the past year, Apple and Meta faced headwinds.

Meta rescinded job offers, stopped hiring and fired around 11,000 employees in 2022, the largest layoffs in the history of the company. Concerns were also expressed by the employees over the focus of Mark Zuckerberg on Metaverse, a world where AR and VR devices are used by people to connect in a digital universe.

WATCH| Gravitas Plus: The Metaverse Explained

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In a similar way, hiring was frozen by Apple in 2022. Zhao, while speaking to Bloomberg, said that the company may have also fallen off the ranking because they pressured employees to return to the office.&nbsp; &nbsp;

While Apple and Meta were removed from the list, few tech companies continued to dominate the rankings, as Microsoft, LinkedIn, and Google reached the top 20.

"Yes, there are some companies that fell off the list. There are some tech companies that entered the list. It's just a reminder that during tough times, often we see a changing of the guard. There are older companies who might be stuck in their ways that tend to fall by the wayside, whereas new companies can challenge and rise to the top,” said Zhao.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

<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>

Biggest technological firms, Apple and Meta, which are known for giving the best perks and environment to their employees, failed to get a mention in the 100 Best Places to Work in 2023, listed by Glassdoor.

Biggest technological firms, Apple and Meta, which are known for giving the best perks and environment to their employees, failed to get a mention in the 100 Best Places to Work in 2023, listed by Glassdoor. This is the first time since 2009 that Apple failed to make its place in Glassdoor’s best places to work list besides Meta which was also consistently ranked in the list since 2011. Both the companies, last year, were ranked in the middle, reported Bloomberg. The annual list released by Glassdoor is based on employees’ feedback about the company, at least 1,000 employees, that were submitted between October 19, 2021, to October 17, 2022. Glassdoor’s lead economist Daniel Zhao, while speaking to Insider, said that this year’s ranking highlights common themes like communication, flexibility and transparency, and also indicates the perspectives of employees towards the economic outlook of the company. WATCH| Is Apple going back on its word? Touchscreen for Macs as early as 2025 "It's something that we get feedback on from employees because we know it's something that people care about and that's even more important at a time when the economy might be slowing down," said Zhao said. "So I think this list is especially useful in that sense because we are considering how employees perceive their employers are doing,” he added. "It becomes more important than ever for people to really understand the health of the company that they're going to, whether you're talking about financial health or cultural health," Zhao further stated. In the past year, Apple and Meta faced headwinds. Meta rescinded job offers, stopped hiring and fired around 11,000 employees in 2022, the largest layoffs in the history of the company. Concerns were also expressed by the employees over the focus of Mark Zuckerberg on Metaverse, a world where AR and VR devices are used by people to connect in a digital universe. WATCH| Gravitas Plus: The Metaverse Explained In a similar way, hiring was frozen by Apple in 2022. Zhao, while speaking to Bloomberg, said that the company may have also fallen off the ranking because they pressured employees to return to the office. While Apple and Meta were removed from the list, few tech companies continued to dominate the rankings, as Microsoft, LinkedIn, and Google reached the top 20. "Yes, there are some companies that fell off the list. There are some tech companies that entered the list. It's just a reminder that during tough times, often we see a changing of the guard. There are older companies who might be stuck in their ways that tend to fall by the wayside, whereas new companies can challenge and rise to the top,” said Zhao. (With inputs from agencies)

Apple and Meta lose spot among 100 best places to work in Glassdoor survey after a decade

The three-day strikes of thousands of nurses came to an end on Thursday as they returned to work after finalising a tentative contract agreement with two hospitals, which included pay raise and better working conditions, announced the union officials on Thursday.

The tentative agreements finalised between Montefiore Medical Centre in the Bronx and Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan includes 19% increase in wages. After the strikes ended, nurses resumed their work at the two hospitals on Thursday. Just before dawn, the nurses were greeted by Governor Kathy Hochul at Mount Sinai.

On Monday, the nurses staged a walkout after they failed to reach negotiations with Montefiore Medical Centre in the Bronx and Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan. Each hospital has more than 1,000 beds and around 3,500 or more nurses, who are associated with New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA).

The union emphasised staffing levels as a major concern as nurses complained about working overtime and handling twice the number of patients they should look at and being forced to skip meals and not even take bathroom breaks.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-7000-nurses-stage-walkout-at-two-new-york-city-hospitals-after-negotiations-fail-550762">More than 7,000 nurses stage walkout at two New York City hospitals after wage negotiations fail</a>

The union stated that the agreements reached with the two hospitals include enforceable, concrete staffing ratios. The agreement signed with Montefiore includes community health improvements as well as nurse-student partnerships so that local nurses can be recruited from the Bronx.

NYSNA President Nancy Hagans, in a statement, said, “Through our unity and by putting it all on the line, we won enforceable safe staffing ratios at both Montefiore and Mount Sinai where nurses went on strike for patient care.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Today, we can return to work with our heads held high, knowing that our victory means safer care for our patients and more sustainable jobs for our profession,” she added.

The non-profit hospitals, which are privately owned, said they are facing a massive nursing shortage which was increased by the pandemic.

In a statement, Montefiore said, “Our bargaining team has been working around the clock with NYSNA’s leadership to come to an agreement. From the outset, we came to the table committed to bargaining in good faith and addressing the issues that were priorities for our nursing staff.”&nbsp; &nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;More than 7000 nurses at two of NYC's largest hospitals go on strike

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/more-than-7000-nurses-at-two-of-nycs-largest-hospitals-go-on-strike-550879/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The hospital stated that it is working to ensure that nurses get “the best possible working environment, with significant wage and benefit enhancements” by finalising the deal with the union.

“We know this strike impacted everyone — not just our nurses — and we were committed to coming to a resolution as soon as possible to minimise disruption to patient care,” stated the hospital.

Mount Sinai posted on its website stating that it was pleased to finalise a tentative agreement with the nurses’ union. &nbsp;

Deals were also finalised between various private hospitals and the union in New York, as the deadline of the strike loomed. The agreement included increasing the wage by 19% in three years.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The three-day strikes of thousands of nurses came to an end on Thursday as they returned to work after finalising a tentative contract agreement with two hospitals, which included pay raise and better working conditions, announced the union officials on Thursday.

The three-day strikes of thousands of nurses came to an end on Thursday as they returned to work after finalising a tentative contract agreement with two hospitals, which included pay raise and better working conditions, announced the union officials on Thursday. The tentative agreements finalised between Montefiore Medical Centre in the Bronx and Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan includes 19% increase in wages. After the strikes ended, nurses resumed their work at the two hospitals on Thursday. Just before dawn, the nurses were greeted by Governor Kathy Hochul at Mount Sinai. On Monday, the nurses staged a walkout after they failed to reach negotiations with Montefiore Medical Centre in the Bronx and Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan. Each hospital has more than 1,000 beds and around 3,500 or more nurses, who are associated with New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA). The union emphasised staffing levels as a major concern as nurses complained about working overtime and handling twice the number of patients they should look at and being forced to skip meals and not even take bathroom breaks. ALSO READ| More than 7,000 nurses stage walkout at two New York City hospitals after wage negotiations fail The union stated that the agreements reached with the two hospitals include enforceable, concrete staffing ratios. The agreement signed with Montefiore includes community health improvements as well as nurse-student partnerships so that local nurses can be recruited from the Bronx. NYSNA President Nancy Hagans, in a statement, said, “Through our unity and by putting it all on the line, we won enforceable safe staffing ratios at both Montefiore and Mount Sinai where nurses went on strike for patient care.” “Today, we can return to work with our heads held high, knowing that our victory means safer care for our patients and more sustainable jobs for our profession,” she added. The non-profit hospitals, which are privately owned, said they are facing a massive nursing shortage which was increased by the pandemic. In a statement, Montefiore said, “Our bargaining team has been working around the clock with NYSNA’s leadership to come to an agreement. From the outset, we came to the table committed to bargaining in good faith and addressing the issues that were priorities for our nursing staff.” WATCH | More than 7000 nurses at two of NYC's largest hospitals go on strike The hospital stated that it is working to ensure that nurses get “the best possible working environment, with significant wage and benefit enhancements” by finalising the deal with the union. “We know this strike impacted everyone — not just our nurses — and we were committed to coming to a resolution as soon as possible to minimise disruption to patient care,” stated the hospital. Mount Sinai posted on its website stating that it was pleased to finalise a tentative agreement with the nurses’ union. Deals were also finalised between various private hospitals and the union in New York, as the deadline of the strike loomed. The agreement included increasing the wage by 19% in three years. (With inputs from agencies)

Nurses return to work at two New York hospitals as strike ends after deal on pay hike

Peek into polluted Delhi’s dark future as AI artist imagines what lies ahead!

North India may shiver in another intense cold wave from Saturday as temperatures are set to dip -4 degrees Celsius, according to the predictions of a weather expert on Thursday.&nbsp; Founder of Live Weather of India, an online weather platform, Navdeep Dahiya warned that the cold wave will peak at its ‘extreme’ between January 16 and 18, as he tweeted, “Never seen temperature ensemble going this low in a prediction model so far in my career.”

Dahiya said, "Don't know how to put this up but upcoming spell of cold wave in India look really extreme during January 14-19 with peak on 16-18th... Freezing -4°c to +2°c in plains, Wow!"

ALSO READ|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-fog-dense-fog-grips-capital-reduces-visibility-less-than-25-metres-several-flights-trains-delayed-550655">&nbsp;Delhi fog: Dense fog grips capital, reduces visibility less than 25 metres; several flights, trains delayed</a>

However, Dahiya said that fog helps in predicting the weather adding that the maximum temperatures can dip to single digits if such harsh weather conditions prevail.

"Still have three days, with minor +/- this is going to happen. Fog will play crucial role in moderating night temperatures... but if (it) lasts long single-digit maximum temperatures will be there. Very interesting days ahead..." he added.

He further warned, "January 2023 can be historically coldest - maybe for the 21st century so far?"

This winter, India’s north and north-western parts have been facing dense fog and bone-chilling winters, with temperatures dipping to 1.9 degrees Celsius as recorded at Safdarjung weather station of New Delhi this week.

However, the national capital got some respite after a minimum temperature was recorded at 9.3 degrees Celsius in Safdarjung.

WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Delhi shivers with longest cold wave in a decade

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The warning issued by Dahiya goes along with the India Meteorological Department’s bulletin which stated that Delhi along with its neighbouring states’ isolated pockets will continue facing harsh cold waves from January 15, as reported by news agency PTI.

IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy, while speaking to news agency ANI, said, "Currently, temperatures have increased due to a western disturbance in northwest India. It is likely cold wave conditions will emerge again over northwest India from Jan 15-16."

(With inputs from agencies)

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North India may shiver in another intense cold wave from Saturday as temperatures are set to dip -4 degrees Celsius, according to the predictions of a weather expert on Thursday.

North India may shiver in another intense cold wave from Saturday as temperatures are set to dip -4 degrees Celsius, according to the predictions of a weather expert on Thursday. Founder of Live Weather of India, an online weather platform, Navdeep Dahiya warned that the cold wave will peak at its ‘extreme’ between January 16 and 18, as he tweeted, “Never seen temperature ensemble going this low in a prediction model so far in my career.” Dahiya said, "Don't know how to put this up but upcoming spell of cold wave in India look really extreme during January 14-19 with peak on 16-18th... Freezing -4°c to +2°c in plains, Wow!" ALSO READ| Delhi fog: Dense fog grips capital, reduces visibility less than 25 metres; several flights, trains delayed However, Dahiya said that fog helps in predicting the weather adding that the maximum temperatures can dip to single digits if such harsh weather conditions prevail. "Still have three days, with minor +/- this is going to happen. Fog will play crucial role in moderating night temperatures... but if (it) lasts long single-digit maximum temperatures will be there. Very interesting days ahead..." he added. He further warned, "January 2023 can be historically coldest - maybe for the 21st century so far?" This winter, India’s north and north-western parts have been facing dense fog and bone-chilling winters, with temperatures dipping to 1.9 degrees Celsius as recorded at Safdarjung weather station of New Delhi this week. However, the national capital got some respite after a minimum temperature was recorded at 9.3 degrees Celsius in Safdarjung. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Delhi shivers with longest cold wave in a decade The warning issued by Dahiya goes along with the India Meteorological Department’s bulletin which stated that Delhi along with its neighbouring states’ isolated pockets will continue facing harsh cold waves from January 15, as reported by news agency PTI. IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy, while speaking to news agency ANI, said, "Currently, temperatures have increased due to a western disturbance in northwest India. It is likely cold wave conditions will emerge again over northwest India from Jan 15-16." (With inputs from agencies)

Temperature to dip to '-4°C’ in North India? Know what more do weather experts say

A severe crackdown was launched by the electronic media watchdog of Pakistan on cable operators telecasting Indian TV and Bollywood content in the country.&nbsp;Raids were conducted by the field staff of Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) at four cable operators "for airing illegal Indian channels as well as Indian content," said the watchdog, in a statement.

The cable operators, who faced the crackdown in Karachi, are M/s New Satellite Communication, M/s Karachi Cable Services, M/s Sharjah Cable Network and M/s Star Digital Cable Network.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/disputes-with-india-should-be-resolved-through-talks-says-pak-foreign-office-545686">Disputes with India should be resolved through talks, says Pak Foreign Office</a>

The statement said that illegal equipment was seized by the regulatory body during the raid and show cause notices were issued to the violators.

It added that an operation has been launched by the PEMRA on reports of the Supreme Court’s orders being deliberately violated by the cable operators.

All the cable TV operators of Pakistan were warned to "immediately stop" airing any Indian content/channels which have been forbidden or marked illegal by the authority.

"No channel other than PEMRA licensee would be allowed for distribution on cable TV networks and any operator found defying the orders henceforth would be dealt strictly in accordance with PEMRA laws," the PEMRA warned.

WATCH|&nbsp;WION Exclusive | 'Comprehensive dialogue between India, Pak is must,' says Pakistan PM Sharif

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-comprehensive-dialogue-between-india-pak-is-must-says-pakistan-pm-sharif-519193/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A complete ban was imposed by PEMRA in 2016 on airing Indian content on radio channels and local television. However, the ban was lifted by the Lahore High Court in 2017 after the Pakistan government held no objections against airing.

The ban on airing any Indian content on television or radio was reinstated in 2018, overturning the order of the Lahore High Court.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The authorities decided in a tit-for-tat move after India’s entertainment industry and a few channels also took similar actions against Pakistani artists and content.

(With inputs from agencies)

<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 severe crackdown was launched by the electronic media watchdog of Pakistan on cable operators telecasting Indian TV and Bollywood content in the country. Raids were conducted by the field staff of Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) at four cable operators "for airing illegal Indian channels as well as Indian content," said the watchdog, in a statement.

A severe crackdown was launched by the electronic media watchdog of Pakistan on cable operators telecasting Indian TV and Bollywood content in the country. Raids were conducted by the field staff of Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) at four cable operators "for airing illegal Indian channels as well as Indian content," said the watchdog, in a statement. The cable operators, who faced the crackdown in Karachi, are M/s New Satellite Communication, M/s Karachi Cable Services, M/s Sharjah Cable Network and M/s Star Digital Cable Network. ALSO READ| Disputes with India should be resolved through talks, says Pak Foreign Office The statement said that illegal equipment was seized by the regulatory body during the raid and show cause notices were issued to the violators. It added that an operation has been launched by the PEMRA on reports of the Supreme Court’s orders being deliberately violated by the cable operators. All the cable TV operators of Pakistan were warned to "immediately stop" airing any Indian content/channels which have been forbidden or marked illegal by the authority. "No channel other than PEMRA licensee would be allowed for distribution on cable TV networks and any operator found defying the orders henceforth would be dealt strictly in accordance with PEMRA laws," the PEMRA warned. WATCH| WION Exclusive | 'Comprehensive dialogue between India, Pak is must,' says Pakistan PM Sharif A complete ban was imposed by PEMRA in 2016 on airing Indian content on radio channels and local television. However, the ban was lifted by the Lahore High Court in 2017 after the Pakistan government held no objections against airing. The ban on airing any Indian content on television or radio was reinstated in 2018, overturning the order of the Lahore High Court. The authorities decided in a tit-for-tat move after India’s entertainment industry and a few channels also took similar actions against Pakistani artists and content. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan’s media watchdog cracks down on cable operators airing Indian content

Manpreet Monica Singh, an Indian-origin woman, has created history as she took oath as a Harris county judge, becoming the United States' first female Sikh judge.&nbsp;

An elated Manpreet, wrote in her Facebook post, “Mama we made it! It is a 'true honour' to rep the people of Harris County as a Sikh civil court judge. Thank you to everyone for making this a historic moment, one that someday won't be an uncommon event - because there will be a judiciary that includes countless Sikh people and other minorities. I'm ready to put my 2 decades of experience to good use.”&nbsp;

Born and raised in Houston, Manpreet now stays in Bellaire with her two children and husband. For the last 20 years, she has been an attorney and has worked with various civil rights organisations at the national, state and local levels.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-avani-chaturvedi-becomes-first-iaf-woman-fighter-pilot-to-participate-in-aerial-wargames-abroad-550494">India: Avani Chaturvedi becomes first IAF woman fighter pilot to participate in aerial wargames abroad</a>

The swearing-in ceremony of Manpreet Singh was presided over by Texas' first South Asian judge Ravi Sandill. In the early 1970s, Manpreet's father immigrated to the US.

"It means a lot to me because I represent H-town (a nickname of Houston) the most, so for it to be us, I'm happy for it," she stated during the oath ceremony.

Commenting on the historic moment, Sandill said, “It's a really big moment for the Sikh community. When they see someone of colour, someone a little different, they know that possibility is available to them. Manpreet is not only an ambassador for Sikhs, but she's an ambassador for all women of colour.”

WATCH|&nbsp;This Columbian town inspired Oscar-winning Encanto

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/this-columbian-town-inspired-oscar-winning-encanto-466922/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After the swearing-in ceremony, Manpreet said, “I thought it was important for kids, as they go through their education, that they could see that there's a possibility for professions that we never had access to before.”

"It was a proud day for the Sikh Community, but also a proud day for all people of Colour who see the Diversity of the City of Houston in the Diversity of the Court,” said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner.

(With inputs from agencies)

<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>

Manpreet Monica Singh, an Indian-origin woman, has created history as she took oath as a Harris county judge, becoming the United States' first female Sikh judge.

Manpreet Monica Singh, an Indian-origin woman, has created history as she took oath as a Harris county judge, becoming the United States' first female Sikh judge. An elated Manpreet, wrote in her Facebook post, “Mama we made it! It is a 'true honour' to rep the people of Harris County as a Sikh civil court judge. Thank you to everyone for making this a historic moment, one that someday won't be an uncommon event - because there will be a judiciary that includes countless Sikh people and other minorities. I'm ready to put my 2 decades of experience to good use.” Born and raised in Houston, Manpreet now stays in Bellaire with her two children and husband. For the last 20 years, she has been an attorney and has worked with various civil rights organisations at the national, state and local levels. ALSO READ| India: Avani Chaturvedi becomes first IAF woman fighter pilot to participate in aerial wargames abroad The swearing-in ceremony of Manpreet Singh was presided over by Texas' first South Asian judge Ravi Sandill. In the early 1970s, Manpreet's father immigrated to the US. "It means a lot to me because I represent H-town (a nickname of Houston) the most, so for it to be us, I'm happy for it," she stated during the oath ceremony. Commenting on the historic moment, Sandill said, “It's a really big moment for the Sikh community. When they see someone of colour, someone a little different, they know that possibility is available to them. Manpreet is not only an ambassador for Sikhs, but she's an ambassador for all women of colour.” WATCH| This Columbian town inspired Oscar-winning Encanto After the swearing-in ceremony, Manpreet said, “I thought it was important for kids, as they go through their education, that they could see that there's a possibility for professions that we never had access to before.” "It was a proud day for the Sikh Community, but also a proud day for all people of Colour who see the Diversity of the City of Houston in the Diversity of the Court,” said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. (With inputs from agencies)

Know about Indian-origin Manpreet Singh! First female Sikh judge in US

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