Two terrorists were killed on Saturday morning after an exchange of fire started between security forces and terrorists&nbsp;in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district.

The topmost Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)&nbsp;commander of South Kashmir Munna Lahori/Bihari from Pakistan killed along with his local associate after a night-long operation.

Weapons and warlike stores were also recovered from their possession, including a pistol, two AK-47, one Under Barrel Grenade Launcher (UBGL), six UBGL Grenade and three Chinese Grenade.

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Jammu &amp; Kashmir: Exchange of fire begins between terrorists and security forces at Bona Bazaar area of Shopian; more details awaited. <a href="https://t.co/KzrSspECxq">pic.twitter.com/KzrSspECxq</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1154955278829445120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The exchange of fire began after a joint team of Army’s 23 Para and SOG Shopian&nbsp;launched cordon and search operation at Bona Bazar.

However, search operations are still underway. 
&nbsp;

Two terrorists were killed on Saturday morning after an exchange of fire started between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district. The topmost Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) commander of South Kashmir Munna Lahori/Bihari from Pakistan killed along with his local associate after a night-long operation.

Two terrorists were killed on Saturday morning after an exchange of fire started between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district. The topmost Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) commander of South Kashmir Munna Lahori/Bihari from Pakistan killed along with his local associate after a night-long operation. Weapons and warlike stores were also recovered from their possession, including a pistol, two AK-47, one Under Barrel Grenade Launcher (UBGL), six UBGL Grenade and three Chinese Grenade. Jammu & Kashmir: Exchange of fire begins between terrorists and security forces at Bona Bazaar area of Shopian; more details awaited. pic.twitter.com/KzrSspECxq — ANI (@ANI) July 27, 2019 × The exchange of fire began after a joint team of Army’s 23 Para and SOG Shopian launched cordon and search operation at Bona Bazar. However, search operations are still underway.

Jammu and Kashmir: Two terrorists killed in encounter in Shopian district

All government and private schools will remain closed on Saturday in the wake of heavy rains predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) here.

An order issued by District Magistrate, Dehradun on Friday said, "The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) Dehradun on July 26 predicted heavy rains in Dehradun, keeping this in view all government and private schools that teach classes 1 to 12, will remain closed on Saturday."

"The Anganwadi centres will also remain closed on Saturday," the order said.

On Friday, the IMD had issued an "Orange Alert" and predicted heavy rainfall in seven districts of Uttarakhand.&nbsp;

"Heavy to very heavy rainfall likely to occur at isolated places especially in Nainital, Champawat, Pithoragarh, Chamoli, Haridwar, Dehradun and Pauri districts of Uttarakhand during next 24 hours," IMD had said.

All government and private schools will remain closed on Saturday in the wake of heavy rains predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) here. An order issued by District Magistrate, Dehradun on Friday said, "The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) Dehradun on July 26 predicted heavy rains in Dehradun, keeping this in view all government and private schools that teach classes 1 to 12, will remain closed on Saturday.

All government and private schools will remain closed on Saturday in the wake of heavy rains predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) here. An order issued by District Magistrate, Dehradun on Friday said, "The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) Dehradun on July 26 predicted heavy rains in Dehradun, keeping this in view all government and private schools that teach classes 1 to 12, will remain closed on Saturday." "The Anganwadi centres will also remain closed on Saturday," the order said. On Friday, the IMD had issued an "Orange Alert" and predicted heavy rainfall in seven districts of Uttarakhand. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall likely to occur at isolated places especially in Nainital, Champawat, Pithoragarh, Chamoli, Haridwar, Dehradun and Pauri districts of Uttarakhand during next 24 hours," IMD had said.

Dehradun: Schools to remain closed today in wake of heavy rains predicted by IMD

At least four people were killed and 20 others&nbsp;injured on Saturday morning in a car bomb explosion in Afghanistan's Ghazni Province, reports said.

The blast occurred at 4:30 am in Ab Band district of Ghazni.

More casualties are feared.

A suicide bomber drove a car full of explosives and targeted a district police headquarters.

According to Afghanistan's based TOLO news, the&nbsp;Taliban has claimed&nbsp;responsibility for the attack. 
&nbsp;

At least four people were killed and 20 others injured on Saturday morning in a car bomb explosion in Afghanistan's Ghazni Province, reports said. The blast occurred at 4:30 am in Ab Band district of Ghazni.

At least four people were killed and 20 others injured on Saturday morning in a car bomb explosion in Afghanistan's Ghazni Province, reports said. The blast occurred at 4:30 am in Ab Band district of Ghazni. More casualties are feared. A suicide bomber drove a car full of explosives and targeted a district police headquarters. According to Afghanistan's based TOLO news, the Taliban has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Afghanistan: Four dead, 20 injured in car bomb explosion in Ghazni

Mumbai-Kolhapur Mahalaxmi Express, with 700 passengers on board, was stranded as torrential <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-rain-lashes-mumbai-flooding-several-areas-seven-flights-cancelled-238751">rainfall continued to batter Mumbai</a> on Saturday.

The train is held up between Vangani and Badlapur, which is 100 kilometres away from Mumbai, since 3 am&nbsp;today, according to a passenger on board.

Speaking to ANI, Chief Public Relations Officer of Central Railways Sunil Udasi said Railway Protection Force and City police have reached the site where the train is held up, and biscuits and water is being distributed to the stranded passengers.

"We request passengers of Mahalaxmi Express not to get down from the train. The train is in a safe place. Staff, RPF and City Police are on the train to look after you. Please wait for advice from NDRF and other disaster management authorities," he appealed to passengers.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra's Directorate General of Information and Public Relations (DGIPR) Brijesh Singh said three boats have reached the spot where the train is stranded, adding that the Chief Secretary is looking into the situation himself.

Heavy rains lashed Mumbai, leading to traffic snarls and water-logging at several major junctions.

Vehicles were seen wading through the waterlogged streets of Sion, Chembur, Gandhi Market at snail's pace due to heavy traffic jam.

Air traffic was also disrupted for a couple of hours in Mumbai, as seven flights were cancelled and around eight to nine were diverted. Around 8:15 am, Mumbai International Airport PRO had announced that flight operations returned to normal.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Mumbai will continue to receive heavy rains till July 29 with the minimum and maximum temperatures hovering around 24 degree Celsius and 30 degree Celsius, respectively.

&nbsp;

Mumbai-Kolhapur Mahalaxmi Express, with 700 passengers on board, was stranded as torrential rainfall continued to batter Mumbai on Saturday. The train is held up between Vangani and Badlapur, which is 100 kilometres away from Mumbai, since 3 am today, according to a passenger on board.

Mumbai-Kolhapur Mahalaxmi Express, with 700 passengers on board, was stranded as torrential rainfall continued to batter Mumbai on Saturday. The train is held up between Vangani and Badlapur, which is 100 kilometres away from Mumbai, since 3 am today, according to a passenger on board. Speaking to ANI, Chief Public Relations Officer of Central Railways Sunil Udasi said Railway Protection Force and City police have reached the site where the train is held up, and biscuits and water is being distributed to the stranded passengers. "We request passengers of Mahalaxmi Express not to get down from the train. The train is in a safe place. Staff, RPF and City Police are on the train to look after you. Please wait for advice from NDRF and other disaster management authorities," he appealed to passengers. Meanwhile, Maharashtra's Directorate General of Information and Public Relations (DGIPR) Brijesh Singh said three boats have reached the spot where the train is stranded, adding that the Chief Secretary is looking into the situation himself. Heavy rains lashed Mumbai, leading to traffic snarls and water-logging at several major junctions. Vehicles were seen wading through the waterlogged streets of Sion, Chembur, Gandhi Market at snail's pace due to heavy traffic jam. Air traffic was also disrupted for a couple of hours in Mumbai, as seven flights were cancelled and around eight to nine were diverted. Around 8:15 am, Mumbai International Airport PRO had announced that flight operations returned to normal. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Mumbai will continue to receive heavy rains till July 29 with the minimum and maximum temperatures hovering around 24 degree Celsius and 30 degree Celsius, respectively.

Heavy rains lash Mumbai, 700 passengers stranded on board Mahalaxmi Express

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend a commemorative function of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/kargil-vijay-diwas-institutional-approach-is-needed-in-defence-preparedness-238543">Kargil Vijay Diwas</a> at Indira Gandhi Indoor (IGI) Stadium here on Saturday.

July 26 is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas every year to commemorate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-kargil-vijay-diwas-army-chief-general-bipin-rawat-warns-pakistan-of-bloodier-nose-next-time-238596">India's victory over Pakistan</a> in the 1999 Kargil conflict.

On Friday, Prime Minister Modi had recalled his visit to Kargil in 1999 during the India-Pakistan war and described as "unforgettable" his interactions with the soldiers.

On the 20th anniversary of the conflict, Modi had tweeted, "During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers. This was the time when I was working for my Party in Jammu and Kashmir as well as Himachal Pradesh. The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable."

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During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers. 
 
This was the time when I was working for my Party in J&amp;K as well as Himachal Pradesh. 
 
The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable. <a href="https://t.co/E5QUgHlTDS">pic.twitter.com/E5QUgHlTDS</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1154581533098795008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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He had also shared photographs in which he can be seen interacting with the soldiers.

Indian Army celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Kargil War yesterday to rekindle the pride and valour of the soldiers who took part in Operation Vijay.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend a commemorative function of Kargil Vijay Diwas at Indira Gandhi Indoor (IGI) Stadium here on Saturday. July 26 is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas every year to commemorate India's victory over Pakistan in the 1999 Kargil conflict.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend a commemorative function of Kargil Vijay Diwas at Indira Gandhi Indoor (IGI) Stadium here on Saturday. July 26 is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas every year to commemorate India's victory over Pakistan in the 1999 Kargil conflict. On Friday, Prime Minister Modi had recalled his visit to Kargil in 1999 during the India-Pakistan war and described as "unforgettable" his interactions with the soldiers. On the 20th anniversary of the conflict, Modi had tweeted, "During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers. This was the time when I was working for my Party in Jammu and Kashmir as well as Himachal Pradesh. The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable." During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers. This was the time when I was working for my Party in J&K as well as Himachal Pradesh. The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable. pic.twitter.com/E5QUgHlTDS — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 26, 2019 × He had also shared photographs in which he can be seen interacting with the soldiers. Indian Army celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Kargil War yesterday to rekindle the pride and valour of the soldiers who took part in Operation Vijay.

PM Modi to attend commemorative function of Kargil Vijay Diwas today

The London Stock Exchange Group Plc said on Friday it was in discussions to acquire financial data analytics provider Refinitiv Holdings Ltd for $27 billion, including debt.

The deal would come less than a year after buyout firm Blackstone Group Inc acquired a majority stake in Refinitiv from Thomson Reuters Corp, valuing the company at the time at $20 billion including debt.

LSE said it would pay for the deal with newly issued LSE shares as currency, turning Refinitiv's existing investors into LSE shareholders who would own about 37% of the combined company and hold less than 30% of the voting rights.

Thomson Reuters, a professional information company that is the parent of Reuters News, currently holds a 45% stake in Refinitiv. It confirmed the negotiations in a statement and said it will own a 15% stake in LSE if the deal is completed.

Based on the valuation the deal would assign to Refinitiv, Blackstone will have roughly doubled the value of its original investment in the company, according to a person familiar with the matter, who requested anonymity because the private equity firm keeps that number confidential.

Refinitiv had $12.2 billion in debt as of the end of December as a result of its leveraged buyout by Blackstone, which LSE would assume under the proposed deal.

LSE and Thomson Reuters both cautioned that there is no certainty that discussions between the parties will progress or that a transaction will be forthcoming. A person familiar with the matter said on Friday that if the negotiations conclude successfully, a deal could be agreed next week.

Refinitiv did not immediately respond to a request for comment, while Blackstone declined to comment.

Refinitiv bonds rallied on the prospect of a deal.

Thomson Reuters shares hit a record high to end trading on Friday up 4.5% to C$92.74 in Toronto after the Financial Times first reported on the deal talks. The stock is up 62% since the end of January 2018, when Blackstone and Thomson Reuters announced the deal for Refinitiv.

A merger would significantly expand LSE's information services business, which the bourse operator has been building as a more stable source of cash flow than its primary transaction-reliant businesses.

"The global exchanges are focusing more and more on data and technology as revenue drivers, and less on the actual matching of buys and sells," said Kevin McPartland, head of market structure and technology research at Greenwich Associates.

LSE operates equity and derivatives markets that include the London Stock Exchange, Borsa Italiana, MTS and Turquoise. It is also the majority owner of LCH, which dominates euro swaps clearing. Its information services business includes financial indexing, benchmarking and analytics services.

The company has a market value of about 19.3 billion pounds and net debt of about 1 billion pounds.

LSE Chief Executive David Schwimmer is a former Goldman Sachs Group Inc banker of 20 years who has raised expectations of big deals.

The LSE has failed several times to merge with rival Deutsche Boerse AG. Schwimmer was appointed CEO last August after the LSE's most recent attempt to do a deal with Deutsche Boerse failed.

Buying Refinitiv could help soften the blow for LSE from a bout of market volatility that is expected should Britain leave the European Union by an October 31 deadline without an exit deal.

Schwimmer said last month that LSE was "very prepared" for Brexit. The exchange has had to open an EU base in Amsterdam for Turquoise, its London-based pan-European share trading platform.

Quick flip

London-based Refinitiv provides financial markets data and infrastructure to more than 40,000 clients in over 190 countries, according to its website.

It caters to traders and investment professionals, who also use LSE's exchanges. It is the biggest client for news of Reuters News under a 30-year contract signed last year.

Thomson Reuters said in its statement on Friday that this contract will continue if Refinitiv's ownership changes.

Under Blackstone's majority ownership, Refinitiv has been shedding non-core assets. In April, it launched an initial public offering of Tradeweb Markets Inc, an electronic trading platform for bonds and derivative instruments.

It has also been in talks with Deutsche Boerse about selling its foreign exchange electronic trading platform FXall.

Private equity firms such as Blackstone aim to buy businesses so they can subsequently sell them at a profit, typically between three and five years later.

A deal with London Stock Exchange for Refinitiv so soon after the carve-out from Thomson Reuters could prove to be a quick, profitable flip for Blackstone, which last week said its assets reached a record $545 billion.

Blackstone's consortium that holds a 55% stake in Refinitiv includes Canada Pension Plan Investment Board and Singaporean sovereign wealth fund GIC Special Investments Pte Ltd.

The London Stock Exchange Group Plc said on Friday it was in discussions to acquire financial data analytics provider Refinitiv Holdings Ltd for $27 billion, including debt.

The London Stock Exchange Group Plc said on Friday it was in discussions to acquire financial data analytics provider Refinitiv Holdings Ltd for $27 billion, including debt. The deal would come less than a year after buyout firm Blackstone Group Inc acquired a majority stake in Refinitiv from Thomson Reuters Corp, valuing the company at the time at $20 billion including debt. LSE said it would pay for the deal with newly issued LSE shares as currency, turning Refinitiv's existing investors into LSE shareholders who would own about 37% of the combined company and hold less than 30% of the voting rights. Thomson Reuters, a professional information company that is the parent of Reuters News, currently holds a 45% stake in Refinitiv. It confirmed the negotiations in a statement and said it will own a 15% stake in LSE if the deal is completed. Based on the valuation the deal would assign to Refinitiv, Blackstone will have roughly doubled the value of its original investment in the company, according to a person familiar with the matter, who requested anonymity because the private equity firm keeps that number confidential. Refinitiv had $12.2 billion in debt as of the end of December as a result of its leveraged buyout by Blackstone, which LSE would assume under the proposed deal. LSE and Thomson Reuters both cautioned that there is no certainty that discussions between the parties will progress or that a transaction will be forthcoming. A person familiar with the matter said on Friday that if the negotiations conclude successfully, a deal could be agreed next week. Refinitiv did not immediately respond to a request for comment, while Blackstone declined to comment. Refinitiv bonds rallied on the prospect of a deal. Thomson Reuters shares hit a record high to end trading on Friday up 4.5% to C$92.74 in Toronto after the Financial Times first reported on the deal talks. The stock is up 62% since the end of January 2018, when Blackstone and Thomson Reuters announced the deal for Refinitiv. A merger would significantly expand LSE's information services business, which the bourse operator has been building as a more stable source of cash flow than its primary transaction-reliant businesses. "The global exchanges are focusing more and more on data and technology as revenue drivers, and less on the actual matching of buys and sells," said Kevin McPartland, head of market structure and technology research at Greenwich Associates. LSE operates equity and derivatives markets that include the London Stock Exchange, Borsa Italiana, MTS and Turquoise. It is also the majority owner of LCH, which dominates euro swaps clearing. Its information services business includes financial indexing, benchmarking and analytics services. The company has a market value of about 19.3 billion pounds and net debt of about 1 billion pounds. LSE Chief Executive David Schwimmer is a former Goldman Sachs Group Inc banker of 20 years who has raised expectations of big deals. The LSE has failed several times to merge with rival Deutsche Boerse AG. Schwimmer was appointed CEO last August after the LSE's most recent attempt to do a deal with Deutsche Boerse failed. Buying Refinitiv could help soften the blow for LSE from a bout of market volatility that is expected should Britain leave the European Union by an October 31 deadline without an exit deal. Schwimmer said last month that LSE was "very prepared" for Brexit. The exchange has had to open an EU base in Amsterdam for Turquoise, its London-based pan-European share trading platform. Quick flip London-based Refinitiv provides financial markets data and infrastructure to more than 40,000 clients in over 190 countries, according to its website. It caters to traders and investment professionals, who also use LSE's exchanges. It is the biggest client for news of Reuters News under a 30-year contract signed last year. Thomson Reuters said in its statement on Friday that this contract will continue if Refinitiv's ownership changes. Under Blackstone's majority ownership, Refinitiv has been shedding non-core assets. In April, it launched an initial public offering of Tradeweb Markets Inc, an electronic trading platform for bonds and derivative instruments. It has also been in talks with Deutsche Boerse about selling its foreign exchange electronic trading platform FXall. Private equity firms such as Blackstone aim to buy businesses so they can subsequently sell them at a profit, typically between three and five years later. A deal with London Stock Exchange for Refinitiv so soon after the carve-out from Thomson Reuters could prove to be a quick, profitable flip for Blackstone, which last week said its assets reached a record $545 billion. Blackstone's consortium that holds a 55% stake in Refinitiv includes Canada Pension Plan Investment Board and Singaporean sovereign wealth fund GIC Special Investments Pte Ltd.

London Stock Exchange in talks to buy Refinitiv for $27 billion

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das has listed out a set of challenges for the global economy, which, he said, is moving towards a new and unsettling phase.

"Solutions are turning difficult to come by as global economy seems to be moving into a new and unsettling phase in an environment of stressed trade negotiations, rising geopolitical confrontation and limited policy space, and high debt levels in several economies," Das said at an event here on Friday.

"General government debt of advanced economies as a group has surpassed 100 per cent of GDP. Fiscal space is also constrained in many of the advanced economies," he added.

In light of the challenges that lie ahead for the economy, Das said monetary and fiscal policies need to be well-calibrated to support growth.

"It is important, in the backdrop of slowing global growth, that policies of monetary and fiscal authorities are well-calibrated so they support growth without further build-up of leverage and asset price bubbles. Prudent policies are critical to growth with macroeconomic stability," he said.

Das also said globally, there is a need to focus on policy space, judiciously use it and simultaneously take structural reforms to undertake productivity, innovation and job creation.

The central bank governor also said how the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and central banks provide guidance will be the key to sustaining global economic growth while maintaining financial stability.

"The coming year will test the IMF for its policy advice on these areas," he added.

Das was speaking at the launch of a book titled 'India's Relations with International Monetary Fund' authored by V Srinivas.

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das has listed out a set of challenges for the global economy, which, he said, is moving towards a new and unsettling phase.

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das has listed out a set of challenges for the global economy, which, he said, is moving towards a new and unsettling phase. "Solutions are turning difficult to come by as global economy seems to be moving into a new and unsettling phase in an environment of stressed trade negotiations, rising geopolitical confrontation and limited policy space, and high debt levels in several economies," Das said at an event here on Friday. "General government debt of advanced economies as a group has surpassed 100 per cent of GDP. Fiscal space is also constrained in many of the advanced economies," he added. In light of the challenges that lie ahead for the economy, Das said monetary and fiscal policies need to be well-calibrated to support growth. "It is important, in the backdrop of slowing global growth, that policies of monetary and fiscal authorities are well-calibrated so they support growth without further build-up of leverage and asset price bubbles. Prudent policies are critical to growth with macroeconomic stability," he said. Das also said globally, there is a need to focus on policy space, judiciously use it and simultaneously take structural reforms to undertake productivity, innovation and job creation. The central bank governor also said how the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and central banks provide guidance will be the key to sustaining global economic growth while maintaining financial stability. "The coming year will test the IMF for its policy advice on these areas," he added. Das was speaking at the launch of a book titled 'India's Relations with International Monetary Fund' authored by V Srinivas.

Global economy seems to be moving into 'new, unsettling phase': RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das

Electronic cigarettes are "undoubtedly harmful" and should be regulated, the WHO said Friday as it warned against the use of vaping products by smokers trying to quit their deadly habit.

The growing popularity of e-cigarettes, battery-powered devices that enable users to inhale addictive nicotine liquids, has raised fears among policymakers worldwide of a new gateway addiction for young people.

While vaping exposes users to lower levels of toxins than smoking, the World Health Organization said the devices still pose "health risks" to users.

"Although the specific level of risk associated with ENDS (electronic nicotine delivery systems) has not yet been conclusively estimated, ENDS are undoubtedly harmful and should, therefore, be subject to regulation," the WHO said in a new report on the global smoking epidemic.

There was also "insufficient evidence" to support claims of their effectiveness in assisting smokers trying to quit conventional cigarettes, it said.

"In most countries where they are available, the majority of e-cigarette users continue to use e-cigarettes and cigarettes concurrently, which has little to no beneficial impact on health risk and effects," the report said.

Big tobacco companies have been aggressively marketing e-cigarette and heated tobacco products in recent years as they seek new customers.

They argue such products are far less dangerous than traditional cigarettes and can help some smokers completely switch to "safer" alternatives. &nbsp;

But the WHO warned misinformation spread by the tobacco industry about e-cigarettes was "a present and real threat."

As well as nicotine, e-cigarettes also contained metal-laced aerosols, which Vinayak Prasad, who leads the WHO's Tobacco Free Initiative, said, "are known to damage the heart, all of them are known to damage the lungs."

"They're also now looking at the long-term effect whether it can even cause cancer, but it's not very well established," Prasad told AFP.&nbsp;

Restrictions on the use of e-cigarettes around the world is increasing. San Francisco last month banned the sale and manufacture of the products.&nbsp;

China, home to nearly a third of the world's tobacco smokers, is also planning to regulate the vaping devices.

More effort was needed to help smokers quit, the WHO said in the report, noting only "30 per cent of the world's population have access to appropriate tobacco cessation services," such as counselling, telephone hotlines and medication.&nbsp;

Without assistance, only four per cent of attempts to stop smoking succeed.&nbsp;

Tobacco claims more than eight million lives each year either from direct use or second-hand smoke, according to the WHO.

While the number of users has declined slightly since 2007, it remains stubbornly high at 1.4 billion, the vast majority of the men.

"People who quit tobacco can live longer, healthier and more productive lives," the WHO said.

Electronic cigarettes are "undoubtedly harmful" and should be regulated, the WHO said Friday as it warned against the use of vaping products by smokers trying to quit their deadly habit.

Electronic cigarettes are "undoubtedly harmful" and should be regulated, the WHO said Friday as it warned against the use of vaping products by smokers trying to quit their deadly habit. The growing popularity of e-cigarettes, battery-powered devices that enable users to inhale addictive nicotine liquids, has raised fears among policymakers worldwide of a new gateway addiction for young people. While vaping exposes users to lower levels of toxins than smoking, the World Health Organization said the devices still pose "health risks" to users. "Although the specific level of risk associated with ENDS (electronic nicotine delivery systems) has not yet been conclusively estimated, ENDS are undoubtedly harmful and should, therefore, be subject to regulation," the WHO said in a new report on the global smoking epidemic. There was also "insufficient evidence" to support claims of their effectiveness in assisting smokers trying to quit conventional cigarettes, it said. "In most countries where they are available, the majority of e-cigarette users continue to use e-cigarettes and cigarettes concurrently, which has little to no beneficial impact on health risk and effects," the report said. Big tobacco companies have been aggressively marketing e-cigarette and heated tobacco products in recent years as they seek new customers. They argue such products are far less dangerous than traditional cigarettes and can help some smokers completely switch to "safer" alternatives. But the WHO warned misinformation spread by the tobacco industry about e-cigarettes was "a present and real threat." As well as nicotine, e-cigarettes also contained metal-laced aerosols, which Vinayak Prasad, who leads the WHO's Tobacco Free Initiative, said, "are known to damage the heart, all of them are known to damage the lungs." "They're also now looking at the long-term effect whether it can even cause cancer, but it's not very well established," Prasad told AFP. Restrictions on the use of e-cigarettes around the world is increasing. San Francisco last month banned the sale and manufacture of the products. China, home to nearly a third of the world's tobacco smokers, is also planning to regulate the vaping devices. More effort was needed to help smokers quit, the WHO said in the report, noting only "30 per cent of the world's population have access to appropriate tobacco cessation services," such as counselling, telephone hotlines and medication. Without assistance, only four per cent of attempts to stop smoking succeed. Tobacco claims more than eight million lives each year either from direct use or second-hand smoke, according to the WHO. While the number of users has declined slightly since 2007, it remains stubbornly high at 1.4 billion, the vast majority of the men. "People who quit tobacco can live longer, healthier and more productive lives," the WHO said.

World Health Organization says e-cigarettes 'undoubtedly harmful'

Two people died and 16 were injured, including eight athletes taking part in swimming's world championship, after a balcony collapsed under the weight of party-goers at a South Korean nightclub, local police said Saturday.

The balcony at the venue close to the athletes' village was a mangled wreck after it gave way and dropped around five metres, as clubbers ran to the exit screaming.

"An internal balcony collapsed at a club in Gwangju, killing two," said Song Gi-ju, a detective with the Gwangju Metropolitan Police Agency.

"We have a total of 16 injured and among them 10 are foreigners. Of the 10, eight are athletes participating in the championships."&nbsp;

Song said the two dead were locals and not involved in the swimming championships.

The eight injured athletes include three Americans, two New Zealanders, one Dutch, one Brazilian and one Italian. Police said earlier that among the Americans was a male diver and a female polo player.

"A structure collapsed all of a sudden with people standing on it. Screams filled the area with broken parts flying all over, said a 32-year-old who was injured in the collapse, according to South Korea's Kukmin Ilbo.

"The site of the collapse was at the centre of the club where customers were most heavily located," said the party-goer, surnamed Kim.

A 38-year-old and a 27-year-old were rushed to hospital in grave condition but both died from their injuries, according to local media.

The world championships organising committee said the eight athletes were treated for minor injuries and have returned to their accommodation. Another will have stitches on a leg wound Saturday.

"This is an awful tragedy," said Christopher Ramsey, CEO of USA Water Polo.&nbsp;

"Players from our men's and women's teams were celebrating the women's world championship victory when the collapse. Our hearts go out to the victims of the crash and their families."

Ramsey added that all the American water polo players were "safe".

The Australian water polo team were also present but escaped without injury.

The New Zealand men's captain told Radio Sport: "We were just dancing and then the next minute we dropped five or six metres and everyone started rushing out of the club after that.&nbsp;

"We, I guess, fell on top of the heads of other people that were beneath us."

Swimming's world body FINA said it would "activate all measures to ensure health care and assistance is provided whenever necessary".

"FINA deeply regrets the situation and sends its best wishes to any victims of this accident," it added.

The world championships end on Sunday.

Two people died and 16 were injured, including eight athletes taking part in swimming's world championship, after a balcony collapsed under the weight of party-goers at a South Korean nightclub, local police said Saturday.

Two people died and 16 were injured, including eight athletes taking part in swimming's world championship, after a balcony collapsed under the weight of party-goers at a South Korean nightclub, local police said Saturday. The balcony at the venue close to the athletes' village was a mangled wreck after it gave way and dropped around five metres, as clubbers ran to the exit screaming. "An internal balcony collapsed at a club in Gwangju, killing two," said Song Gi-ju, a detective with the Gwangju Metropolitan Police Agency. "We have a total of 16 injured and among them 10 are foreigners. Of the 10, eight are athletes participating in the championships." Song said the two dead were locals and not involved in the swimming championships. The eight injured athletes include three Americans, two New Zealanders, one Dutch, one Brazilian and one Italian. Police said earlier that among the Americans was a male diver and a female polo player. "A structure collapsed all of a sudden with people standing on it. Screams filled the area with broken parts flying all over, said a 32-year-old who was injured in the collapse, according to South Korea's Kukmin Ilbo. "The site of the collapse was at the centre of the club where customers were most heavily located," said the party-goer, surnamed Kim. A 38-year-old and a 27-year-old were rushed to hospital in grave condition but both died from their injuries, according to local media. The world championships organising committee said the eight athletes were treated for minor injuries and have returned to their accommodation. Another will have stitches on a leg wound Saturday. "This is an awful tragedy," said Christopher Ramsey, CEO of USA Water Polo. "Players from our men's and women's teams were celebrating the women's world championship victory when the collapse. Our hearts go out to the victims of the crash and their families." Ramsey added that all the American water polo players were "safe". The Australian water polo team were also present but escaped without injury. The New Zealand men's captain told Radio Sport: "We were just dancing and then the next minute we dropped five or six metres and everyone started rushing out of the club after that. "We, I guess, fell on top of the heads of other people that were beneath us." Swimming's world body FINA said it would "activate all measures to ensure health care and assistance is provided whenever necessary". "FINA deeply regrets the situation and sends its best wishes to any victims of this accident," it added. The world championships end on Sunday.

Two dead in South Korean nightclub balcony collapse at world swim meeting

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-presents-50-days-report-card-of-modi-government-20-238697">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> is slated to address a 50,000 people-strong gathering at the NRG Stadium in Houston here on September 22.

The event titled 'Howdy, Modi!' is being hosted by the Texas India Forum and the Indian diaspora in the United States is expected to attend the do, according to the organisers.

"We are excited to hold this summit at the renowned NRG Stadium. This will be the largest ever gathering of Indian-Americans and friends of India, with diverse representation from the region and across the country," said Jugal Malani, convener of the 'Howdy, Modi!" organizing committee.

"The tagline for the summit, 'Shared Dreams, Bright Futures' reflects the intent to build on the common aspirations that bring together the great democracies of the United States and India," a statement released by the organisers said.

The Texas India Forum (TIF) is a not-for-profit organisation that encourages cooperation between the United States and India. TIF brings together Indian-American organizations and institutions to encourage collaboration within the region and expand opportunities for engagement with India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to address a 50,000 people-strong gathering at the NRG Stadium in Houston here on September 22. The event titled 'Howdy, Modi!

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to address a 50,000 people-strong gathering at the NRG Stadium in Houston here on September 22. The event titled 'Howdy, Modi!' is being hosted by the Texas India Forum and the Indian diaspora in the United States is expected to attend the do, according to the organisers. "We are excited to hold this summit at the renowned NRG Stadium. This will be the largest ever gathering of Indian-Americans and friends of India, with diverse representation from the region and across the country," said Jugal Malani, convener of the 'Howdy, Modi!" organizing committee. "The tagline for the summit, 'Shared Dreams, Bright Futures' reflects the intent to build on the common aspirations that bring together the great democracies of the United States and India," a statement released by the organisers said. The Texas India Forum (TIF) is a not-for-profit organisation that encourages cooperation between the United States and India. TIF brings together Indian-American organizations and institutions to encourage collaboration within the region and expand opportunities for engagement with India.

PM Modi to address 50,000 people in Houston in September

A United Nation expert said on Friday some Sri Lankan laws are "frequently applied" in a discriminatory manner and urged the government to address the root causes of public protests by treating everyone equally.

President Maithripala Sirisena's government during its 2015 election campaign promised to ensure freedom of assembly, which was strictly limited under his predecessor.

Clement Nyaletsossi Voule, who reports to the UN Human Rights Council on the right to free assembly and association, said after an eight-day official visit that some laws had been used to jeopardise the rights of free assembly and association. These include the penal code, International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) Act, and Prevention of Terrorism Act, he said.

"It has been brought to my attention that these laws are frequently applied in a discriminatory manner against those people organising around specific issues such as disappearances, land rights, livelihood and access to resources, and development projects," he told a media conference at the UN office in Colombo.

Sri Lanka is in a state of emergency after more than 250 people were killed in Easter Sunday bombings. Since then some people have been arrested on suspicions that they were involved.

"It is important that the country's political leaders do not dismiss people's desire for freedom, rule of law and democracy and do not undermine the progress that has been hard fought for, particularly in light of the upcoming elections," Voule said.

The Indian Ocean island will hold presidential polls later this year and parliamentary elections next year.

Civil society organisations have opposed proposed new laws to regulate non-government organisations and the creation of a new counter-terrorism act, which rights groups see as a move to clamp down civil society activities and the right to peaceful assembly.

Voule also expressed concern over the growing prevalence of hate speech in the country, which has increased sharply after the April attacks.

A United Nation expert said on Friday some Sri Lankan laws are "frequently applied" in a discriminatory manner and urged the government to address the root causes of public protests by treating everyone equally.

A United Nation expert said on Friday some Sri Lankan laws are "frequently applied" in a discriminatory manner and urged the government to address the root causes of public protests by treating everyone equally. President Maithripala Sirisena's government during its 2015 election campaign promised to ensure freedom of assembly, which was strictly limited under his predecessor. Clement Nyaletsossi Voule, who reports to the UN Human Rights Council on the right to free assembly and association, said after an eight-day official visit that some laws had been used to jeopardise the rights of free assembly and association. These include the penal code, International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) Act, and Prevention of Terrorism Act, he said. "It has been brought to my attention that these laws are frequently applied in a discriminatory manner against those people organising around specific issues such as disappearances, land rights, livelihood and access to resources, and development projects," he told a media conference at the UN office in Colombo. Sri Lanka is in a state of emergency after more than 250 people were killed in Easter Sunday bombings. Since then some people have been arrested on suspicions that they were involved. "It is important that the country's political leaders do not dismiss people's desire for freedom, rule of law and democracy and do not undermine the progress that has been hard fought for, particularly in light of the upcoming elections," Voule said. The Indian Ocean island will hold presidential polls later this year and parliamentary elections next year. Civil society organisations have opposed proposed new laws to regulate non-government organisations and the creation of a new counter-terrorism act, which rights groups see as a move to clamp down civil society activities and the right to peaceful assembly. Voule also expressed concern over the growing prevalence of hate speech in the country, which has increased sharply after the April attacks.

UN official says some Sri Lankan laws discriminately applied

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-lets-trump-use-disputed-funds-of-25-billion-for-border-wall-238745">US Supreme Court lets Trump use disputed funds of $2.5 billion for border wall</a>

The US Supreme Court on Friday handed President Donald Trump a victory by letting his administration redirect $2.5 billion in money approved by Congress for the Pentagon to help build his promised wall along the US-Mexico border even though lawmakers refused to provide funding.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-dead-nine-injured-after-twin-quakes-hit-northern-philippines-238739">Eight dead, 60 injured after twin quakes hit northern Philippines</a>

At least eight people were killed and over dozen were injured when the northern Philippines was struck with twin earthquakes of magnitudes 5.4 and 5.9 on early Saturday, police said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-announces-controversial-asylum-deal-with-guatemala-238748">US President Donald Trump announces controversial asylum deal with Guatemala</a>

President Donald Trump announced Friday that a "landmark" asylum agreement has been reached with Guatemala, as the United States ratchets up pressure on its southern neighbours to stem the flow of migrants towards its border.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-sales-to-support-pakistans-f-16s-indias-c-17s-238754">US approves sales to support Pakistan's F-16s, India's C-17s</a>

Washington on Friday approved $125 million worth of support for Pakistan's F-16 warplanes, and also $670 worth of support for India's C-17 transport planes.

Approval to support US-built aircraft for the two south Asian rivals were approved by the US State Department, and announced simultaneously by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-rain-lashes-mumbai-flooding-several-areas-seven-flights-cancelled-238751">Heavy rain lashes Mumbai flooding several areas, traffic severely affected</a>

Heavy rains lashed Mumbai in the last 24 hours flooding several areas and severely affecting the road, rail and air traffic.

US Supreme Court lets Trump use disputed funds of $2.5 billion for border wall The US Supreme Court on Friday handed President Donald Trump a victory by letting his administration redirect $2.

US Supreme Court lets Trump use disputed funds of $2.5 billion for border wall The US Supreme Court on Friday handed President Donald Trump a victory by letting his administration redirect $2.5 billion in money approved by Congress for the Pentagon to help build his promised wall along the US-Mexico border even though lawmakers refused to provide funding. Eight dead, 60 injured after twin quakes hit northern Philippines At least eight people were killed and over dozen were injured when the northern Philippines was struck with twin earthquakes of magnitudes 5.4 and 5.9 on early Saturday, police said. US President Donald Trump announces controversial asylum deal with Guatemala President Donald Trump announced Friday that a "landmark" asylum agreement has been reached with Guatemala, as the United States ratchets up pressure on its southern neighbours to stem the flow of migrants towards its border. US approves sales to support Pakistan's F-16s, India's C-17s Washington on Friday approved $125 million worth of support for Pakistan's F-16 warplanes, and also $670 worth of support for India's C-17 transport planes. Approval to support US-built aircraft for the two south Asian rivals were approved by the US State Department, and announced simultaneously by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency. Heavy rain lashes Mumbai flooding several areas, traffic severely affected Heavy rains lashed Mumbai in the last 24 hours flooding several areas and severely affecting the road, rail and air traffic.

News brief: Big stories of the day

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