National Guard troops who are flooding into Washington to secure the Capitol for Inauguration Day will be armed, the Army secretary, Ryan McCarthy, has decided, Defense Department officials said Tuesday.

The armed troops will be responsible for security around the Capitol building complex, the officials said.

As up to 15,000 troops continued to arrive in Washington from all over the country, Defense Department officials had been weighing whether to deploy them with arms. McCarthy has decided that at the very least those around the Capitol building will carry weapons, said the officials, who confirmed the decision on the condition of anonymity.

McCarthy’s decision came after a meeting with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif. Pelosi, according to congressional staff members, demanded that the Pentagon take a more muscular posture after a mob, egged on by President Donald Trump last week, breached the Capitol.

Pentagon officials say they are worried about protests that are planned for the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden next week. About 16 groups — some of them saying they will be armed and most of them made up of hard-line supporters of Trump — have registered to stage protests in Washington, officials said.

One Defense Department official said law enforcement agencies are planning for a range of outcomes, including a worst-case scenario in which people with firearms try to attack dignitaries, “suicide-type aircraft” try to fly into the capital’s restricted airspace and even remote-controlled drones that could be used to attack the crowd.

While those scenarios are among the more extreme, the officials said they were particularly worried about the possibility of multiple, violent confrontations, including with firearms, simultaneously flaring up around the inaugural dignitaries.

Mayor Muriel Bowser of Washington sent a letter to Trump on Sunday asking for an emergency declaration to obtain additional funding for inauguration security.

“In light of the attack on the Capitol and intelligence suggesting further violence is likely during the inaugural period, my administration has re-evaluated our preparedness posture for the inauguration, including requesting the extension of D.C. National Guard support through Jan. 24, 2021,” Bowser wrote.

Defense Department officials said that the White House had signed off on the decision to arm some of the National Guard troops coming to Washington to provide security. Pentagon officials have underscored that the National Guard — not active-duty military troops — will be assigned to those duties.

Defense Department officials said that even the National Guard troops who were not directly supporting the Capitol complex, but were stationed elsewhere in the Washington area, would not be far from their weapons.

“We want our individuals to have the right to self-defence,” Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, chief of the National Guard Bureau, said Monday during a telephone news conference. “If senior leadership determines that that’s the right posture to be in, then that is something we will do.”

All the National Guard troops coming to Washington, he said, are bringing their weapons with them.

The National Guard is expected to officially announce the arming of some of the troops Tuesday night or Wednesday morning. The decision is important because in the past, federal and local officials have shied away from militarizing the Capitol.

But the riots last week have brought into sharp focus the potential dangers that lawmakers and, potentially, the next president, face from supporters of Trump, who has continued to falsely claim that he, not Biden, won the election.

National Guard troops who are flooding into Washington to secure the Capitol for Inauguration Day will be armed, the Army secretary, Ryan McCarthy, has decided, Defense Department officials said Tuesday.

National Guard troops who are flooding into Washington to secure the Capitol for Inauguration Day will be armed, the Army secretary, Ryan McCarthy, has decided, Defense Department officials said Tuesday. The armed troops will be responsible for security around the Capitol building complex, the officials said. As up to 15,000 troops continued to arrive in Washington from all over the country, Defense Department officials had been weighing whether to deploy them with arms. McCarthy has decided that at the very least those around the Capitol building will carry weapons, said the officials, who confirmed the decision on the condition of anonymity. McCarthy’s decision came after a meeting with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif. Pelosi, according to congressional staff members, demanded that the Pentagon take a more muscular posture after a mob, egged on by President Donald Trump last week, breached the Capitol. Pentagon officials say they are worried about protests that are planned for the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden next week. About 16 groups — some of them saying they will be armed and most of them made up of hard-line supporters of Trump — have registered to stage protests in Washington, officials said. One Defense Department official said law enforcement agencies are planning for a range of outcomes, including a worst-case scenario in which people with firearms try to attack dignitaries, “suicide-type aircraft” try to fly into the capital’s restricted airspace and even remote-controlled drones that could be used to attack the crowd. While those scenarios are among the more extreme, the officials said they were particularly worried about the possibility of multiple, violent confrontations, including with firearms, simultaneously flaring up around the inaugural dignitaries. Mayor Muriel Bowser of Washington sent a letter to Trump on Sunday asking for an emergency declaration to obtain additional funding for inauguration security. “In light of the attack on the Capitol and intelligence suggesting further violence is likely during the inaugural period, my administration has re-evaluated our preparedness posture for the inauguration, including requesting the extension of D.C. National Guard support through Jan. 24, 2021,” Bowser wrote. Defense Department officials said that the White House had signed off on the decision to arm some of the National Guard troops coming to Washington to provide security. Pentagon officials have underscored that the National Guard — not active-duty military troops — will be assigned to those duties. Defense Department officials said that even the National Guard troops who were not directly supporting the Capitol complex, but were stationed elsewhere in the Washington area, would not be far from their weapons. “We want our individuals to have the right to self-defence,” Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, chief of the National Guard Bureau, said Monday during a telephone news conference. “If senior leadership determines that that’s the right posture to be in, then that is something we will do.” All the National Guard troops coming to Washington, he said, are bringing their weapons with them. The National Guard is expected to officially announce the arming of some of the troops Tuesday night or Wednesday morning. The decision is important because in the past, federal and local officials have shied away from militarizing the Capitol. But the riots last week have brought into sharp focus the potential dangers that lawmakers and, potentially, the next president, face from supporters of Trump, who has continued to falsely claim that he, not Biden, won the election.

Pentagon to arm National Guard troops deploying to Capitol for inauguration

The US on Wednesday allowed the execution of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stay-granted-to-lisa-montgomery-first-female-inmate-on-death-row-in-us-356202">Lisa Montgomery</a>, 52, marking the first time the government implemented the death sentence for a female prisoner since 1953.

"Lisa Montgomery, 52, was executed at the US&nbsp;Penitentiary Terre Haute in accordance with the capital sentence unanimously recommended by a federal jury and imposed by the US District Court for the Western District of Missouri in 2007," the US Justice Department said.

Lisa Montgomery was convicted in 2007 for kidnapping and strangling Bobbie Jo Stinnett who was pregnant. Montgomery's lawyers had last week asked Trump for clemency.

The Trump administration had resumed federal executions last year after it was halted for the past 17 years. Only three men have been executed by the federal government since 1963.

Montgomery's execution was challenged in several federal courts. Montgomery's lawyer Kelley Henry said the execution was "vicious, unlawful, and unnecessary exercise of authoritarian power."&nbsp;

Henry added that "No one can credibly dispute Mrs. Montgomery's longstanding debilitating mental disease - diagnosed and treated for the first time by the Bureau of Prisons' own doctors."

Last month Alfred Bourgeo was executed by lethal injection at a prison in Terre Haute, Indiana which was the tenth execution at the federal level in 2020. Bourgeo's execution occurred a day after another convicted prisoner, Brandon Bernard, was also executed in Terre Haute.

President-elect Biden has pledged to work with Congress to bring an end to federal executions.

For 131 years, outgoing presidents have traditionally suspended federal executions during the transition period, however, the Trump administration announced six executions between November and January.

The US on Wednesday allowed the execution of Lisa Montgomery, 52, marking the first time the government implemented the death sentence for a female prisoner since 1953.

The US on Wednesday allowed the execution of Lisa Montgomery, 52, marking the first time the government implemented the death sentence for a female prisoner since 1953. "Lisa Montgomery, 52, was executed at the US Penitentiary Terre Haute in accordance with the capital sentence unanimously recommended by a federal jury and imposed by the US District Court for the Western District of Missouri in 2007," the US Justice Department said. Lisa Montgomery was convicted in 2007 for kidnapping and strangling Bobbie Jo Stinnett who was pregnant. Montgomery's lawyers had last week asked Trump for clemency. The Trump administration had resumed federal executions last year after it was halted for the past 17 years. Only three men have been executed by the federal government since 1963. Montgomery's execution was challenged in several federal courts. Montgomery's lawyer Kelley Henry said the execution was "vicious, unlawful, and unnecessary exercise of authoritarian power." Henry added that "No one can credibly dispute Mrs. Montgomery's longstanding debilitating mental disease - diagnosed and treated for the first time by the Bureau of Prisons' own doctors." Last month Alfred Bourgeo was executed by lethal injection at a prison in Terre Haute, Indiana which was the tenth execution at the federal level in 2020. Bourgeo's execution occurred a day after another convicted prisoner, Brandon Bernard, was also executed in Terre Haute. President-elect Biden has pledged to work with Congress to bring an end to federal executions. For 131 years, outgoing presidents have traditionally suspended federal executions during the transition period, however, the Trump administration announced six executions between November and January.

Lisa Montgomery death row: US carries out first federal execution of a woman in decades

India's Army chief General Naravane said today that Pakistan continues to "embrace terrorism and continues to use terror as state policy." "We reserve our right to respond at a time and place of our choosing with precision.

India's Army chief General Naravane said today that Pakistan continues to "embrace terrorism and continues to use terror as state policy." "We reserve our right to respond at a time and place of our choosing with precision. It is a clear message we have sent across," the Army chief said on the Pakistan threat. "We have zero-tolerance for terror," he added. General Naravane said the forces are "ready to meet any eventuality". "We have maintained a high state of alertness all along the northern borders. We are hoping for a peaceful solution but are ready to meet any eventuality. All logistics are taken care of," the Army chief added on tensions along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) with China. Naravane said that eight round of talks has been conducted between India and China on the situation at the LAC with another round due to take place. Naravane said the Army faced two principal challenges namely COVID-19 and situation along India's northern borders involving China. "We are alert and ever ready to meet challenges," the Army chief asserted. "Pakistan and China together form a potent threat and the threat of collusivity cannot be wished away," he added. Naravane said a broad roadmap is being prepared to bring in all the new technologies to develop a technology-enabled Army to meet challenges of the future. On the Chinese activities, the Army chief said every year the PLA comes to traditional training areas which have been vacated. "They were in depth area of Tibet plateau with no reduction in friction area," he added.

Pakistan, China together form a potent threat, says Indian Army chief General Naravane

As the vaccination drive against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/vitamin-d-reduces-coronavirus-mortality-rate-study-356111">coronavirus</a> gathers pace across the world, the World Health Organization(WHO) has warned that herd immunity will not be reached this year.

Watch:

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WHO’s chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan said: “We are not going to achieve any levels of population immunity or&nbsp;herd immunity&nbsp;in 2021.” &nbsp;

"Even if happens in a couple of pockets in a few countries, it's not going to protect people across the world," she added.

Swaminathan said best practices relating to the virus should be observed which includes hand washing, social distancing and wearing masks.

The WHO scientist said it takes time to "scale the production of doses, not just in the millions, but here we are talking about in the billions" while assuring that the "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/first-flight-of-coronavirus-vaccine-covishield-flown-to-delhi-356150">vaccines</a> are going to come. They are going to go to all countries.”

“But meanwhile we mustn’t forget that there are measures that work.”

WHO senior adviser Bruce Aylward said: "Over 40 countries have now begun <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-steps-up-vaccinations-as-coronavirus-cases-surge-worst-weeks-still-to-come-356014">vaccinating</a> against COVID-19 using five different COVID-19 vaccines. However, all of that vaccination or virtually all of it were in high income and upper-middle-income countries so far."

"We require the cooperation of vaccine manufacturers to prioritise deliveries to the COVAX facility, we require the cooperation of our financers to see through the financing necessary, and we require the cooperation."

As the new virus variant surfaced in Tokyo, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that as the virus spreads, there is higher the chance of a new change to the virus.

"Transmissibility of some variants of the virus appears to be increasing," Tedros informed.

As the vaccination drive against coronavirus gathers pace across the world, the World Health Organization(WHO) has warned that herd immunity will not be reached this year.

As the vaccination drive against coronavirus gathers pace across the world, the World Health Organization(WHO) has warned that herd immunity will not be reached this year. Watch: WHO’s chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan said: “We are not going to achieve any levels of population immunity or herd immunity in 2021.” "Even if happens in a couple of pockets in a few countries, it's not going to protect people across the world," she added. Swaminathan said best practices relating to the virus should be observed which includes hand washing, social distancing and wearing masks. The WHO scientist said it takes time to "scale the production of doses, not just in the millions, but here we are talking about in the billions" while assuring that the "vaccines are going to come. They are going to go to all countries.” “But meanwhile we mustn’t forget that there are measures that work.” WHO senior adviser Bruce Aylward said: "Over 40 countries have now begun vaccinating against COVID-19 using five different COVID-19 vaccines. However, all of that vaccination or virtually all of it were in high income and upper-middle-income countries so far." "We require the cooperation of vaccine manufacturers to prioritise deliveries to the COVAX facility, we require the cooperation of our financers to see through the financing necessary, and we require the cooperation." As the new virus variant surfaced in Tokyo, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that as the virus spreads, there is higher the chance of a new change to the virus. "Transmissibility of some variants of the virus appears to be increasing," Tedros informed.

Herd immunity will not be reached in 2021 despite vaccines, says WHO's Soumya Swaminathan

After India heroically drew the Sydney Test against all odds, Australian captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/his-days-as-captain-are-numbered-sunil-gavaskar-rips-into-tim-paine-for-unruly-conduct-356093">Tim Paine</a> apologised for sledging against Indian off-spinner Ravi Ashwin.

"I want to apologise for the way I went about things yesterday... my leadership wasn't good enough, I let the pressure of the game get to me, Paine said, adding,"I'm a captain who wants to enjoy the game, who wants to play the game with a smile on his face and I fell short of my expectations and our team standards."

Stump mike had picked up the sledging incident between Paine and Ashwin as the Australian captain was heard ranting openly against the Indian spinner.

Paine conceded that his sledging undermined the goal he set himself when appointed Test captain in 2018 after the infamous "Sandpaper-gate" ball-tampering scandal against South Africa which involved former captain Steven Smith and&nbsp;Warner.&nbsp;

Steve Smith also attracted negative attention as TV footage showed he was scuffing up wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant's guard at the crease.&nbsp;

TV stump camera showed Smith shadow batting and then apparently rubbing off the pitch marks made by Pant where he takes guard.

Paine, however, defended Smith's move, saying: "It's one of his mannerisms, he was marking centre, he wasn't by any stretch of the imagination trying to change guard or do anything like that."

Paine was earlier fined for dissent against umpire Paul Wilson on day two of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-3rd-test-bruised-and-broken-but-sydney-was-conquered-356068">Sydney</a> Test. After Indian batsmen thwarted the Australian batsmen on the final day of the Test, Pain admitted the draw was "tough to swallow".

The Australian captain blamed himself for dropping catches during the crucial fifth day's play with Australia hunting for victory including a chance from Ashwin.

"I ended up looking the fool didn't I? You open your mouth and then you drop a catch," the Australian captain told reporters.

The Australian captain spoke to Ashwin after the match with the two players reportedly joking about the on-field incident.

After India heroically drew the Sydney Test against all odds, Australian captain Tim Paine apologised for sledging against Indian off-spinner Ravi Ashwin. "I want to apologise for the way I went about things yesterday.

After India heroically drew the Sydney Test against all odds, Australian captain Tim Paine apologised for sledging against Indian off-spinner Ravi Ashwin. "I want to apologise for the way I went about things yesterday... my leadership wasn't good enough, I let the pressure of the game get to me, Paine said, adding,"I'm a captain who wants to enjoy the game, who wants to play the game with a smile on his face and I fell short of my expectations and our team standards." Stump mike had picked up the sledging incident between Paine and Ashwin as the Australian captain was heard ranting openly against the Indian spinner. Paine conceded that his sledging undermined the goal he set himself when appointed Test captain in 2018 after the infamous "Sandpaper-gate" ball-tampering scandal against South Africa which involved former captain Steven Smith and Warner. Steve Smith also attracted negative attention as TV footage showed he was scuffing up wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant's guard at the crease. TV stump camera showed Smith shadow batting and then apparently rubbing off the pitch marks made by Pant where he takes guard. Paine, however, defended Smith's move, saying: "It's one of his mannerisms, he was marking centre, he wasn't by any stretch of the imagination trying to change guard or do anything like that." Paine was earlier fined for dissent against umpire Paul Wilson on day two of the Sydney Test. After Indian batsmen thwarted the Australian batsmen on the final day of the Test, Pain admitted the draw was "tough to swallow". The Australian captain blamed himself for dropping catches during the crucial fifth day's play with Australia hunting for victory including a chance from Ashwin. "I ended up looking the fool didn't I? You open your mouth and then you drop a catch," the Australian captain told reporters. The Australian captain spoke to Ashwin after the match with the two players reportedly joking about the on-field incident.

Australian captain Tim Paine apologises for sledging against Ashwin in Sydney Test

As India gets set to begin its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/oxford-astrazeneca-vaccine-to-cost-rs200-a-vial-in-india-purchase-order-placed-with-sii-reports-356029">vaccination</a> drive against coronavirus on January 16, three trucks carrying "Covishield" vaccine reached Pune airport from Serum Institute of India&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday morning to be transported to various parts of the country.

Watch:

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The first flight carrying the coronavirus vaccine "Covishield"&nbsp;departed from Pune International Airport to Delhi on Tuesday.

Serum Institute of India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-vaccines-more-affordable-than-any-other-on-the-globe-pm-modi-356039">vaccine</a> "Covishield" will be shipped to different locations in the country from Pune airport.

Reports said at least eight flights will transport the "Covishield" vaccine from thirteen different locations today. The authorities have undertaken elaborate measures in order to ensure the safe passage of the vaccines, police said.

Ajay Singh, Managing Director, SpiceJet said: "SpiceJet has carried India’s first consignment of COVID-19 vaccine today. The first consignment of "Covishield" consisting of 34 boxes and weighing 1,088 kg was carried from Pune to Delhi."

PM Modi during his interaction with CMs of various states on Monday had said that "our vaccines are more affordable than any other vaccine on the globe. If India needed vaccine from other countries, it would've been a big challenge."

"India's vaccination experience will help during COVID-19 vaccination programme," PM Modi added. Indian authorities have given top priority to healthcare workers and frontline workers in the first phase of vaccination drive.

India has been hit hard due to the virus with over 10.4 million coronavirus cases and 151,160 deaths.&nbsp;

With ANI inputs

As India gets set to begin its vaccination drive against coronavirus on January 16, three trucks carrying "Covishield" vaccine reached Pune airport from Serum Institute of India on Tuesday morning to be transported to various parts of the country.

As India gets set to begin its vaccination drive against coronavirus on January 16, three trucks carrying "Covishield" vaccine reached Pune airport from Serum Institute of India on Tuesday morning to be transported to various parts of the country. Watch: The first flight carrying the coronavirus vaccine "Covishield" departed from Pune International Airport to Delhi on Tuesday. Serum Institute of India's vaccine "Covishield" will be shipped to different locations in the country from Pune airport. Reports said at least eight flights will transport the "Covishield" vaccine from thirteen different locations today. The authorities have undertaken elaborate measures in order to ensure the safe passage of the vaccines, police said. Ajay Singh, Managing Director, SpiceJet said: "SpiceJet has carried India’s first consignment of COVID-19 vaccine today. The first consignment of "Covishield" consisting of 34 boxes and weighing 1,088 kg was carried from Pune to Delhi." PM Modi during his interaction with CMs of various states on Monday had said that "our vaccines are more affordable than any other vaccine on the globe. If India needed vaccine from other countries, it would've been a big challenge." "India's vaccination experience will help during COVID-19 vaccination programme," PM Modi added. Indian authorities have given top priority to healthcare workers and frontline workers in the first phase of vaccination drive. India has been hit hard due to the virus with over 10.4 million coronavirus cases and 151,160 deaths. With ANI inputs

First flight of coronavirus vaccine Covishield flown to Delhi

Ahead of Joe Biden's inauguration on January 20, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protest-in-israel-against-netanyahu-amid-third-coronavirus-lockdown-355733">Netanyahu</a> directed authorities to approve construction of 800 new homes for Jewish settlers in the occupied West Bank.

Watch:

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The new settlements will take place in Judea and Samaria. Netanyahu's announcement comes as the country gets set to go to the polls on March 23 with the prime minister facing a strong right-wing challenge from pro-settler candidate Gideon Saar.

Saar in a statement said Netanyahu and Gantz should "rise above the disputes and regulate the status of these communities".

The Israeli PM's office had said earlier that 100 of the new units were to be built in the Tal Menashe settlement.

Palestinians, however, condemned the move as "illegal". Most countries view Israeli settlements as violating international law. According to reports, there are nearly 450,000 Jewish settlers in the West Bank who are living along with &nbsp;2.8 million Palestinians.

The outgoing Trump administration has given its support to settler group with its top diplomat Pompeo visiting the settlement in the West Bank in November.

The US government had earlier recognised the Jerusalem as Israel's capital and moved its embassy there angering Palestinians.

"The Israeli settlements tenders are illegal and his announcement today about the new 800 colonial units escalate the aggression towards the Palestinians, we consider all settlements illegal," Wasel Abu Youssef, member of the executive committee of the PLO, said.

The latest move by the Israeli PM is being closely watched by president-elect Joe Biden who has been critical of Netanyahu's settlement policies and has indicated he might reserve Trump's US policy on West Bank. 
&nbsp;

Ahead of Joe Biden's inauguration on January 20, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu directed authorities to approve construction of 800 new homes for Jewish settlers in the occupied West Bank.

Ahead of Joe Biden's inauguration on January 20, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu directed authorities to approve construction of 800 new homes for Jewish settlers in the occupied West Bank. Watch: The new settlements will take place in Judea and Samaria. Netanyahu's announcement comes as the country gets set to go to the polls on March 23 with the prime minister facing a strong right-wing challenge from pro-settler candidate Gideon Saar. Saar in a statement said Netanyahu and Gantz should "rise above the disputes and regulate the status of these communities". The Israeli PM's office had said earlier that 100 of the new units were to be built in the Tal Menashe settlement. Palestinians, however, condemned the move as "illegal". Most countries view Israeli settlements as violating international law. According to reports, there are nearly 450,000 Jewish settlers in the West Bank who are living along with 2.8 million Palestinians. The outgoing Trump administration has given its support to settler group with its top diplomat Pompeo visiting the settlement in the West Bank in November. The US government had earlier recognised the Jerusalem as Israel's capital and moved its embassy there angering Palestinians. "The Israeli settlements tenders are illegal and his announcement today about the new 800 colonial units escalate the aggression towards the Palestinians, we consider all settlements illegal," Wasel Abu Youssef, member of the executive committee of the PLO, said. The latest move by the Israeli PM is being closely watched by president-elect Joe Biden who has been critical of Netanyahu's settlement policies and has indicated he might reserve Trump's US policy on West Bank.

Ahead of Biden's inauguration, Netanyahu authorises new Israeli settlements in West Bank

Ahead of Joe Biden's inauguration, America's FBI has warned that armed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrats-introduce-trump-impeachment-article-in-us-house-356120">Trump</a> supporters could hold protests in all 50 states between the coming weekend and January 20 when the president-elect takes oath.

Watch:

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As authorities begin ramping up security, Pentagon said it had authorized 15,000 National Guard troops to be deployed for Biden's inauguration.

Chief of the defence department's National Guard Bureau Daniel Hokanson said that at least 6,200 have already been deployed in capital Washington with another 10,000 planned deployment over the weekend.

Hokanson added that 5,000 troops could be deployed during Biden's oath-taking ceremony. The security measures are being implemented after the violence erupted last Wednesday in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-reassess-security-for-inauguration-and-demonstrations-after-capitol-attack-356109">Capitol </a>when people stormed the US Congress with five people being killed and a police officer who died due to injuries.

Meanwhile, the US Justice Department has charged 15 people involved in violence last Wednesday on the Congress which includes Richard Barnett a Trump supporter who invaded the office of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Lonnie Coffman of Alabama who was found carrying two handguns.

Barnett who was photographed with his feet on the desk in Pelosi's office was charged with theft of stationery by authorities.

Acting US Attorney Michael Sherwin said: "The lawless destruction of the US Capitol building was an attack against one of our nation's greatest institutions."

Reports said there are several more charges being framed as the FBI continues to investigate the case.

Washington police have arrested at least 40 people and charged them with various offences including weapons offences, unlawful entry and curfew violations.

Ahead of Joe Biden's inauguration, America's FBI has warned that armed Trump supporters could hold protests in all 50 states between the coming weekend and January 20 when the president-elect takes oath.

Ahead of Joe Biden's inauguration, America's FBI has warned that armed Trump supporters could hold protests in all 50 states between the coming weekend and January 20 when the president-elect takes oath. Watch: As authorities begin ramping up security, Pentagon said it had authorized 15,000 National Guard troops to be deployed for Biden's inauguration. Chief of the defence department's National Guard Bureau Daniel Hokanson said that at least 6,200 have already been deployed in capital Washington with another 10,000 planned deployment over the weekend. Hokanson added that 5,000 troops could be deployed during Biden's oath-taking ceremony. The security measures are being implemented after the violence erupted last Wednesday in the Capitol when people stormed the US Congress with five people being killed and a police officer who died due to injuries. Meanwhile, the US Justice Department has charged 15 people involved in violence last Wednesday on the Congress which includes Richard Barnett a Trump supporter who invaded the office of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Lonnie Coffman of Alabama who was found carrying two handguns. Barnett who was photographed with his feet on the desk in Pelosi's office was charged with theft of stationery by authorities. Acting US Attorney Michael Sherwin said: "The lawless destruction of the US Capitol building was an attack against one of our nation's greatest institutions." Reports said there are several more charges being framed as the FBI continues to investigate the case. Washington police have arrested at least 40 people and charged them with various offences including weapons offences, unlawful entry and curfew violations.

FBI warns armed Trump supporters could hold protests in all 50 states ahead of Biden's inauguration

The government should provide additional funds as well as incentives in the upcoming Budget to promote indigenous farm research, oilseeds production, food processing and organic farming for the overall growth of the agriculture sector, according to industry experts.

The direct benefit transfer (DBT) scheme should be utilised more to support farmers instead of giving subsidies, they added.

"Food processing industry has played an important role in better price realisation for the farmer and reducing the cost of intermediaries. The budget must provide special incentives to food processing through incentives such as interest subvention, lower taxes, access to technology and so on," DCM Shriram Chairman and Senior MD Ajay Shriram said.

Referring to the successful PM-KISAN scheme under which Rs 6,000 is paid annually directly into farmers bank accounts, he said the DBT mechanism should be fine-tuned and gradually should be utilized to support farmers in lieu of other subsidies.

"Let the farmer decide how to judicially use the money. With the benefit of DBT, farmers can then buy better seed, use new-age fertilizers, optimize water usage and so on," Shriram said.

Stating that many Indian startups have invested in the agri-technology space, he advocated for a policy that encourages growth of these companies and adoption of latest techniques.

He said there has not been any significant breakthrough in recent years from indigenous agricultural research and development (R&amp;D) and this could be partly on account of resource crunch.

"Two areas that need immediate attention are firstly linking agricultural research with industry requirements and secondly avoiding ideological resistance to new-age technologies such GM crops," Shriram said.

Consulting firm Deloitte India suggested that more funds should be allocated for research and development as well as for increasing the domestic production of oilseeds to reduce imports of cooking oils.

Stating that livestock farming is one of the key pillars for augmenting farmers' income, the consulting firm said one of the big impediments for development of this sector is the prevalence of various diseases that affect mortality, productivity, and overall production.

"Supply of vaccines is not adequate to address the increasing demand. Funding for developing vaccines and creating necessary infrastructure would be required in this budget," Deloitte said. 
Chirag Arora, Founder, Organisch Overseas, said the government must encourage farmers to adopt organic farming.

"The need of the hour is to encourage the private sector into the space by offering tax incentives to startups venturing into this domain. It also needs to augment investment on creation of cold-chains and increase storage capabilities," Arora said.

Last month, in a virtual pre-budget consultation with the finance ministry, Bharat Krishak Samaj (BKS) had said that the government should incentivise balanced use of fertilisers by increasing urea price and lowering rates of phosphatic and potassic (P&amp;K) nutrients in the upcoming Budget.

BKS Chairman Ajay Vir Jakhar had also sought reduction in taxes on diesel and transport subsidy on fruits and vegetables, but demanded tax on unhealthy foods. He had pitched for tripling investment for micro-irrigation and solar pumps for individual farmers as well as funding for distribution of soil moisture measuring sensors.

"Prioritize investment in human resources over infrastructure. There are about 50 per cent vacancies in agriculture research institutions across India. Target 2 per cent expenditure on agri R&amp;D of agriculture GDP over the next few years," BKS had said.

The government should provide additional funds as well as incentives in the upcoming Budget to promote indigenous farm research, oilseeds production, food processing and organic farming for the overall growth of the agriculture sector, according to industry experts.

The government should provide additional funds as well as incentives in the upcoming Budget to promote indigenous farm research, oilseeds production, food processing and organic farming for the overall growth of the agriculture sector, according to industry experts. The direct benefit transfer (DBT) scheme should be utilised more to support farmers instead of giving subsidies, they added. "Food processing industry has played an important role in better price realisation for the farmer and reducing the cost of intermediaries. The budget must provide special incentives to food processing through incentives such as interest subvention, lower taxes, access to technology and so on," DCM Shriram Chairman and Senior MD Ajay Shriram said. Referring to the successful PM-KISAN scheme under which Rs 6,000 is paid annually directly into farmers bank accounts, he said the DBT mechanism should be fine-tuned and gradually should be utilized to support farmers in lieu of other subsidies. "Let the farmer decide how to judicially use the money. With the benefit of DBT, farmers can then buy better seed, use new-age fertilizers, optimize water usage and so on," Shriram said. Stating that many Indian startups have invested in the agri-technology space, he advocated for a policy that encourages growth of these companies and adoption of latest techniques. He said there has not been any significant breakthrough in recent years from indigenous agricultural research and development (R&D) and this could be partly on account of resource crunch. "Two areas that need immediate attention are firstly linking agricultural research with industry requirements and secondly avoiding ideological resistance to new-age technologies such GM crops," Shriram said. Consulting firm Deloitte India suggested that more funds should be allocated for research and development as well as for increasing the domestic production of oilseeds to reduce imports of cooking oils. Stating that livestock farming is one of the key pillars for augmenting farmers' income, the consulting firm said one of the big impediments for development of this sector is the prevalence of various diseases that affect mortality, productivity, and overall production. "Supply of vaccines is not adequate to address the increasing demand. Funding for developing vaccines and creating necessary infrastructure would be required in this budget," Deloitte said. Chirag Arora, Founder, Organisch Overseas, said the government must encourage farmers to adopt organic farming. "The need of the hour is to encourage the private sector into the space by offering tax incentives to startups venturing into this domain. It also needs to augment investment on creation of cold-chains and increase storage capabilities," Arora said. Last month, in a virtual pre-budget consultation with the finance ministry, Bharat Krishak Samaj (BKS) had said that the government should incentivise balanced use of fertilisers by increasing urea price and lowering rates of phosphatic and potassic (P&K) nutrients in the upcoming Budget. BKS Chairman Ajay Vir Jakhar had also sought reduction in taxes on diesel and transport subsidy on fruits and vegetables, but demanded tax on unhealthy foods. He had pitched for tripling investment for micro-irrigation and solar pumps for individual farmers as well as funding for distribution of soil moisture measuring sensors. "Prioritize investment in human resources over infrastructure. There are about 50 per cent vacancies in agriculture research institutions across India. Target 2 per cent expenditure on agri R&D of agriculture GDP over the next few years," BKS had said.

Union Budget 2021: Govt should provide additional funds, incentives for agriculture sector, say experts

As Japanese experts study the new coronavirus variant which emerged from Brazil, reports said PM <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-pm-mulls-over-state-of-emergency-amid-rising-coronavirus-cases-354324">Suga's</a> government is set to widen the state of emergency beyond Tokyo over the surge in virus cases.

Kyodo news reported that the Japan government is set to extend the emergency to prefectures of Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo.

The Japan prime minister had declared a one-month state of emergency for Tokyo until February 7. Kyodo reported the emergency could be declared in central prefectures of Aichi and Gifu as well.

The government had imposed emergency in Saitama, Kanagawa and Chiba prefectures as well covering 30 per cent of the country's population.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/around-80-want-tokyo-olympics-cancelled-or-delayed-japanese-survey-355818">Also Read:&nbsp;Around 80% want Tokyo Olympics cancelled or delayed</a>

"The global pandemic has been a tougher one than we expected, but I'm hopeful we can overcome this," PM Suga said in a televised address, adding,"for this to happen, I must ask citizens to endure life with some restrictions."

Japan had notified the World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday on the new virus variant after two adults and two children who had arrived from Brazil on January 2 were detected with the virus.

Japan's National Institute of Infectious Diseases has said earlier there are some similarities between the newly detected strain&nbsp;and the ones found in the UK and South Africa.

Japan currently has over 267,000 coronavirus cases and nearly 3,900 fatalities due to the virus.

As Japanese experts study the new coronavirus variant which emerged from Brazil, reports said PM Suga's government is set to widen the state of emergency beyond Tokyo over the surge in virus cases.

As Japanese experts study the new coronavirus variant which emerged from Brazil, reports said PM Suga's government is set to widen the state of emergency beyond Tokyo over the surge in virus cases. Kyodo news reported that the Japan government is set to extend the emergency to prefectures of Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo. The Japan prime minister had declared a one-month state of emergency for Tokyo until February 7. Kyodo reported the emergency could be declared in central prefectures of Aichi and Gifu as well. The government had imposed emergency in Saitama, Kanagawa and Chiba prefectures as well covering 30 per cent of the country's population. Also Read: Around 80% want Tokyo Olympics cancelled or delayed "The global pandemic has been a tougher one than we expected, but I'm hopeful we can overcome this," PM Suga said in a televised address, adding,"for this to happen, I must ask citizens to endure life with some restrictions." Japan had notified the World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday on the new virus variant after two adults and two children who had arrived from Brazil on January 2 were detected with the virus. Japan's National Institute of Infectious Diseases has said earlier there are some similarities between the newly detected strain and the ones found in the UK and South Africa. Japan currently has over 267,000 coronavirus cases and nearly 3,900 fatalities due to the virus.

Japan may widen state of emergency beyond Tokyo amid virus surge

Supreme Court on Tuesday stayed the implementation of three <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/extremely-disappointed-sc-pulls-up-centre-for-handling-farmers-protest-356022">farms</a> laws until further orders and formed a committee to hold talks.

Chief Justice of India had said that a committee is being formed to have a clearer picture.&nbsp;

"We don't want to hear arguments that farmers will not go to the committee. We are looking to solve the problem," India's Chief Justice&nbsp;SA Bobde&nbsp;said.

On Tuesday, India's apex court began hearing several petitions challenging the three<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-farmers-agree-to-meet-government-over-contentious-farm-laws-352618"> farm</a> laws passed by the Parliament and removal of protesting farmers from Delhi's borders.

"This committee will be for us. All of you people who are expected to solve the issue will go before this committee. It will not pass an order or punish you, it will only submit a report to us," India's CJI added.

Advocate ML Sharma who had filed a plea challenging the farm laws&nbsp;had told the top court that farmers have said they will not appear before any committee constituted by the court.

"We are concerned about the validity of the laws and also about protecting life and property of citizens affected by protests. We are trying to solve the problem in accordance with the powers we have. One of the powers we have is to suspend the legislation and make a committee," Bobde&nbsp;said.

Supreme Court on Tuesday stayed the implementation of three farms laws until further orders and formed a committee to hold talks. Chief Justice of India had said that a committee is being formed to have a clearer picture.

Supreme Court on Tuesday stayed the implementation of three farms laws until further orders and formed a committee to hold talks. Chief Justice of India had said that a committee is being formed to have a clearer picture. "We don't want to hear arguments that farmers will not go to the committee. We are looking to solve the problem," India's Chief Justice SA Bobde said. On Tuesday, India's apex court began hearing several petitions challenging the three farm laws passed by the Parliament and removal of protesting farmers from Delhi's borders. "This committee will be for us. All of you people who are expected to solve the issue will go before this committee. It will not pass an order or punish you, it will only submit a report to us," India's CJI added. Advocate ML Sharma who had filed a plea challenging the farm laws had told the top court that farmers have said they will not appear before any committee constituted by the court. "We are concerned about the validity of the laws and also about protecting life and property of citizens affected by protests. We are trying to solve the problem in accordance with the powers we have. One of the powers we have is to suspend the legislation and make a committee," Bobde said.

Supreme Court puts three farms laws on hold; forms committee to hold talks

With 12,584 new coronavirus infections reported in the last 24 hours on Tuesday, India recorded the lowest single-day figure in over seven months taking India`s overall tally to 1,04,79,179. 
 
Before this, the lowest number was recorded on June 17 last year, when India reported 12,881 fresh Covid cases in a day. 
 
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said 167 deaths were reported in the past 24 hours taking the death toll to 1,51,327.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/first-flight-of-coronavirus-vaccine-covishield-flown-to-delhi-356150" hreflang="en">First flight of coronavirus vaccine Covishield flown to Delhi</a>

Since the last 18 days, less than 300 new deaths per day have been recorded in the country. 
 
As per the ministry data, till now, 1,01,11,294 people have recovered. Currently, there are 2,16,558 active cases. 
 
The recovery rate stands at 96.43 per cent while the fatality rate is 1.44 as per cent. 
 
The total number of samples tested up to January 11 were 18,26,52,887 including 8,97,056 samples tested on Monday, the Indian Council of Medical Research said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-unsc-india-expresses-concern-over-terror-acts-by-boko-haram-islamic-state-in-west-africa-356117" hreflang="en">At UNSC, India expresses concern over terror acts by Boko Haram, Islamic State in West Africa</a> 
 
About 82.25 per cent of the daily new cases were being reported from nine states -- Kerala, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Bihar and Gujarat. 
 
Meanwhile, the most-awaited mass vaccination drive is slated to begin from January 16, with approval of two vaccines. The Central government plans to vaccinate nearly three crore people in the first phase of the drive. 
 
The vaccine will be offered to one crore healthcare workers, along with two crore frontline and essential workers, 26 crore people above the age of 50 and one crore below 50 with comorbidities.&nbsp;

With 12,584 new coronavirus infections reported in the last 24 hours on Tuesday, India recorded the lowest single-day figure in over seven months taking India`s overall tally to 1,04,79,179.

With 12,584 new coronavirus infections reported in the last 24 hours on Tuesday, India recorded the lowest single-day figure in over seven months taking India`s overall tally to 1,04,79,179. Before this, the lowest number was recorded on June 17 last year, when India reported 12,881 fresh Covid cases in a day. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said 167 deaths were reported in the past 24 hours taking the death toll to 1,51,327. Also read| First flight of coronavirus vaccine Covishield flown to Delhi Since the last 18 days, less than 300 new deaths per day have been recorded in the country. As per the ministry data, till now, 1,01,11,294 people have recovered. Currently, there are 2,16,558 active cases. The recovery rate stands at 96.43 per cent while the fatality rate is 1.44 as per cent. The total number of samples tested up to January 11 were 18,26,52,887 including 8,97,056 samples tested on Monday, the Indian Council of Medical Research said. Also read| At UNSC, India expresses concern over terror acts by Boko Haram, Islamic State in West Africa About 82.25 per cent of the daily new cases were being reported from nine states -- Kerala, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Bihar and Gujarat. Meanwhile, the most-awaited mass vaccination drive is slated to begin from January 16, with approval of two vaccines. The Central government plans to vaccinate nearly three crore people in the first phase of the drive. The vaccine will be offered to one crore healthcare workers, along with two crore frontline and essential workers, 26 crore people above the age of 50 and one crore below 50 with comorbidities.

India reports 12.5K new COVID cases, lowest in 7 months

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