The COVID-19 fourth wave fears continue to grow in India as 3,303 new cases and 39 deaths were reported on Thursday, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Health. This took the number of active cases to 16,980 and also increased the total death toll to 5,23,693.

The upward trend continues in the country as there were 701 more cases reported in comparison to Wednesday while the daily positivity rate also went up to 0.66 per cent. The growing number of cases has been a matter of concern and a lot of states have already implemented mask mandates.

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Kerala became the latest state to make wearing masks mandatory in public after similar steps in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, and Punjab.

According to a recent survey, one in three Indians believed that the fourth wave has already started in the country. The survey conducted by an online platform included around 36,000 participants and around 34 per cent of them said that they believe that the fourth wave has started in April.

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Countries like China and South Korea have seen a huge jump in cases and with Shanghai and parts of Beijing going under lockdown, the trend in India has been a worrying trend for all experts.

However, the vaccination drive is underway with all adults eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot and government data shows that the number of doses given is around 188.4 crore. When it comes to testing, data shows that 4,97,669 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours.

WATCH |&nbsp;LIC IPO: India's insurance giant has biggest stock sale in India

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lic-ipo-indias-insurance-giant-has-biggest-stock-sale-in-india-474516/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The COVID-19 fourth wave fears continue to grow in India as 3,303 new cases and 39 deaths were reported on Thursday, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Health.

The COVID-19 fourth wave fears continue to grow in India as 3,303 new cases and 39 deaths were reported on Thursday, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Health. This took the number of active cases to 16,980 and also increased the total death toll to 5,23,693. The upward trend continues in the country as there were 701 more cases reported in comparison to Wednesday while the daily positivity rate also went up to 0.66 per cent. The growing number of cases has been a matter of concern and a lot of states have already implemented mask mandates. Also read | Jammu and Kashmir: Three arrested for trafficking arms for terrorists Kerala became the latest state to make wearing masks mandatory in public after similar steps in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, and Punjab. According to a recent survey, one in three Indians believed that the fourth wave has already started in the country. The survey conducted by an online platform included around 36,000 participants and around 34 per cent of them said that they believe that the fourth wave has started in April. Also read | In fight against cybercrime, Indian govt makes efforts to spread awareness Countries like China and South Korea have seen a huge jump in cases and with Shanghai and parts of Beijing going under lockdown, the trend in India has been a worrying trend for all experts. However, the vaccination drive is underway with all adults eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot and government data shows that the number of doses given is around 188.4 crore. When it comes to testing, data shows that 4,97,669 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours. WATCH | LIC IPO: India's insurance giant has biggest stock sale in India

Amid fourth COVID-19 wave fears, India experiences substantial growth in daily number of cases

An own goal and a Sadio Mane strike earned Liverpool a 2-0 victory in their Champions League semi-final first-leg against Villarreal on Wednesday, putting Juergen Klopp`s side on course for their third European Cup final in five seasons.

After the drama of Tuesday`s other semi-final, which saw Manchester City beat Real Madrid 4-3 at the Etihad, it was never going to be easy for this game to compete in the entertainment stakes.

But Liverpool did enough to build themselves a solid lead for Tuesday`s return game in Spain where they will be confident of finishing off the job.

Villarreal defended in numbers in the first half to frustrate the six-times European Cup winners, with Thiago Alcantara going closest to breaking the deadlock with a thunderous strike from distance that hit the post.

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There were several half-chances for Liverpool with Jordan Henderson drilling into the side netting and Mohamed Salah floating an effort wide, while Mane saw a deflected effort zip just past the post.

But for the most part Unai Emery`s defence coped well, with Pau Torres in command at the back and the central midfield pairing of Dani Parejo and Etienne Capoue protecting the area in front of them.

Liverpool turned it up a notch after the break and moments after Brazilian midfielder Fabinho had seen one effort ruled out for offside, Henderson`s cross was deflected into his own net by Pervis Estupinan to break Villarreal`s resistance.

Able to express themselves with the deadlock broken, Mohamed Salah threaded a sublime pass through for Mane to put the game beyond the visitors 133 seconds later.

Liverpool`s pressing was too much for the Spaniards at times and they had chances to make the result more comprehensive.

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Andy Robertson had a fine effort ruled out for offside after connecting with a sweeping cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold, while Virgil van Dijk tried his luck with a long-range thunderbolt which nearly knocked Villarreal keeper Geronimo Rulli off his feet.

Anfield showed its appreciation at the final whistle but in truth this was a game that felt more like a group-stage match than a last-four encounter.

"They are a very organised team and we knew they would make it difficult. It was just important that we kept going and believed that we would eventually break them down. We did that with two good goals," said Henderson.

"Majority of the game, our counter-press was really good. It made it difficult for them. But the game is still alive and it will be tough in Villarreal."

An own goal and a Sadio Mane strike earned Liverpool a 2-0 victory in their Champions League semi-final first-leg against Villarreal on Wednesday, putting Juergen Klopp`s side on course for their third European Cup final in five seasons.

An own goal and a Sadio Mane strike earned Liverpool a 2-0 victory in their Champions League semi-final first-leg against Villarreal on Wednesday, putting Juergen Klopp`s side on course for their third European Cup final in five seasons. After the drama of Tuesday`s other semi-final, which saw Manchester City beat Real Madrid 4-3 at the Etihad, it was never going to be easy for this game to compete in the entertainment stakes. But Liverpool did enough to build themselves a solid lead for Tuesday`s return game in Spain where they will be confident of finishing off the job. Villarreal defended in numbers in the first half to frustrate the six-times European Cup winners, with Thiago Alcantara going closest to breaking the deadlock with a thunderous strike from distance that hit the post. Also read | WATCH: Malik bowls a stunning 153 kmph yorker to rattle Saha in IPL 2022 There were several half-chances for Liverpool with Jordan Henderson drilling into the side netting and Mohamed Salah floating an effort wide, while Mane saw a deflected effort zip just past the post. But for the most part Unai Emery`s defence coped well, with Pau Torres in command at the back and the central midfield pairing of Dani Parejo and Etienne Capoue protecting the area in front of them. Liverpool turned it up a notch after the break and moments after Brazilian midfielder Fabinho had seen one effort ruled out for offside, Henderson`s cross was deflected into his own net by Pervis Estupinan to break Villarreal`s resistance. Able to express themselves with the deadlock broken, Mohamed Salah threaded a sublime pass through for Mane to put the game beyond the visitors 133 seconds later. Liverpool`s pressing was too much for the Spaniards at times and they had chances to make the result more comprehensive. Also read | World No.1 Iga Swiatek pulls out of Madrid Open with shoulder injury Andy Robertson had a fine effort ruled out for offside after connecting with a sweeping cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold, while Virgil van Dijk tried his luck with a long-range thunderbolt which nearly knocked Villarreal keeper Geronimo Rulli off his feet. Anfield showed its appreciation at the final whistle but in truth this was a game that felt more like a group-stage match than a last-four encounter. "They are a very organised team and we knew they would make it difficult. It was just important that we kept going and believed that we would eventually break them down. We did that with two good goals," said Henderson. "Majority of the game, our counter-press was really good. It made it difficult for them. But the game is still alive and it will be tough in Villarreal."

Liverpool breeze past Villarreal to close in on UEFA Champions League final

It has been a staple for science fiction books and movies in the past to show technologies capable enough to target and destroy asteroids heading towards the earth. It seems like it can finally become a reality as China’s space agency announced a new space monitoring and defense system.

According to the state-backed media outlet Global Times, China National Space Administration (CSNA) deputy Wu Yanhua has said that they will be attempting to intercept an asteroid moving towards earth at an immense speed by crashing a spacecraft into its course and he added the mission can be launched by the year 2025.

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The first target is reported to be an asteroid which may come threatingly close to earth in 2025 and Yanhua told The Global Times that the system will be important in protecting ‘Earth and mankind’.

The system will feature a simulation software which can help in getting ready for possible scenarios and rehearsals will be organised in order to perfect the system before using it in a situation.

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The system will connect both earth and space as the scientists will continue to monitor the situation in order to assess the threat levels of various asteroids. By crashing a spacecraft into the approaching asteroid, the scientists will be looking to change its course away from planet earth.

According to the report in The Global Times, the system is just at the establishment phase and the progress and findings of this system will be reviewed thoroughly before any sort of approval.

It has been a staple for science fiction books and movies in the past to show technologies capable enough to target and destroy asteroids heading towards the earth.

It has been a staple for science fiction books and movies in the past to show technologies capable enough to target and destroy asteroids heading towards the earth. It seems like it can finally become a reality as China’s space agency announced a new space monitoring and defense system. According to the state-backed media outlet Global Times, China National Space Administration (CSNA) deputy Wu Yanhua has said that they will be attempting to intercept an asteroid moving towards earth at an immense speed by crashing a spacecraft into its course and he added the mission can be launched by the year 2025. Also read | After Twitter takeover, Elon Musk wants to add cocaine to Coca-Cola The first target is reported to be an asteroid which may come threatingly close to earth in 2025 and Yanhua told The Global Times that the system will be important in protecting ‘Earth and mankind’. The system will feature a simulation software which can help in getting ready for possible scenarios and rehearsals will be organised in order to perfect the system before using it in a situation. Also read | Right to be forgotten: Google begins to take requests for removal of search results with personal info The system will connect both earth and space as the scientists will continue to monitor the situation in order to assess the threat levels of various asteroids. By crashing a spacecraft into the approaching asteroid, the scientists will be looking to change its course away from planet earth. According to the report in The Global Times, the system is just at the establishment phase and the progress and findings of this system will be reviewed thoroughly before any sort of approval.

China's space agency planning to detect and attack asteroids heading towards earth

Russia announced on Wednesday that it has decided to withdraw from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation ahead of the scheduled vote on their suspension. It was reported that they will most likely face suspension from the UN body after the vote due to the ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

However, despite the withdrawal, UNWTO made it clear that they will go ahead with the suspension but the complete process of excluding them from the body will take around a year to finish.

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According to a report by Reuters, the suspension was a sure thing with Zurab Pololikashvili, the secretary general of UNWTO, urging the members to vote against Russia. The report said that he wanted the vote to be an example of other organisations on how to handle Russia.

According to the rules of the vote, there were 160 members in total and a two-thirds majority was needed to put the suspension process into effect. However, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov made it clear that the decision by UNWTO will have no impact on the country’s tourism.

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"The tourism sector, especially that for domestic tourism, will continue its development. The external directions for tourism are also open, hinging on questions of competition in terms of quality and price," he said.

Russia has already been removed from the United Nations Human Rights Council amid reports of the army committing a number of human rights violations in Ukraine. There have been a number of reports emerging from Ukraine and Russia decided to withdraw after the UNHRC vote.

Russia announced on Wednesday that it has decided to withdraw from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation ahead of the scheduled vote on their suspension.

Russia announced on Wednesday that it has decided to withdraw from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation ahead of the scheduled vote on their suspension. It was reported that they will most likely face suspension from the UN body after the vote due to the ongoing invasion of Ukraine. However, despite the withdrawal, UNWTO made it clear that they will go ahead with the suspension but the complete process of excluding them from the body will take around a year to finish. Also read | US warship sails through Taiwan Strait, China calls it 'provocative action' According to a report by Reuters, the suspension was a sure thing with Zurab Pololikashvili, the secretary general of UNWTO, urging the members to vote against Russia. The report said that he wanted the vote to be an example of other organisations on how to handle Russia. According to the rules of the vote, there were 160 members in total and a two-thirds majority was needed to put the suspension process into effect. However, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov made it clear that the decision by UNWTO will have no impact on the country’s tourism. Also read | As offensive intensifies, 30-foot-tall Ukrainian-Russian 'friendship' statue gets demolished in Kyiv "The tourism sector, especially that for domestic tourism, will continue its development. The external directions for tourism are also open, hinging on questions of competition in terms of quality and price," he said. Russia has already been removed from the United Nations Human Rights Council amid reports of the army committing a number of human rights violations in Ukraine. There have been a number of reports emerging from Ukraine and Russia decided to withdraw after the UNHRC vote.

Russia withdraws from United Nations World Tourism Organization ahead of vote on its suspension

A Pakistani court on Wednesday extended pre-arrest bail to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son, Punjab chief minister-elect Hamza Shehbaz till May 14 in a Rs14-billion money laundering case.

"The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) special court Lahore on Wednesday accepted Shehbaz's application seeking exemption from personal appearance for one day. However, the court directed the premier to file a reply in the case otherwise it will initiate indictment proceedings on the next hearing on May 14," a court official told PTI.

However, Hamza Sharif appeared before the court.

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The official said the court also directed Shehbaz's counsel Advocate Amjad Pervez to present arguments before the court on May 14 on his contention that his client can't be indicted in this case.

Shehbaz is also the President of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party. Shehbaz and his sons -&nbsp;Hamza and Suleman - were booked by FIA in November 2020 under various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act and Anti Money Laundering Act. Suleman is absconding and residing in the UK.

The FIA investigation has detected 28 benami accounts, allegedly of the Shehbaz family, through which an amount of 14 billion Pakistani Rupees (USD 75 million) was laundered from 2008 to 2018.

The FIA examined the money trail of 17,000 credit transactions. The amount was kept in 'hidden accounts'&nbsp;and given to Shehbaz in his personal capacity, according to the charges.

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Meanwhile, the Lahore High Court on Wednesday directed Punjab Governor Omer Sarfaraz Cheema to ensure the completion of the process of administering oath to Chief Minister-elect Hamza Shehbaz by April 28, either doing so himself or through a nominee.

Hamza was elected chief minister on April 16. Hamza and his party blamed ousted prime minister Imran Khan for the delay in oath-taking.

WATCH |&nbsp;Pakistan: Three Chinese nationals among Four killed in Karachi University blast

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-three-chinese-nationals-among-four-killed-in-karachi-university-blast-474121/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A Pakistani court on Wednesday extended pre-arrest bail to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son, Punjab chief minister-elect Hamza Shehbaz till May 14 in a Rs14-billion money laundering case.

A Pakistani court on Wednesday extended pre-arrest bail to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son, Punjab chief minister-elect Hamza Shehbaz till May 14 in a Rs14-billion money laundering case. "The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) special court Lahore on Wednesday accepted Shehbaz's application seeking exemption from personal appearance for one day. However, the court directed the premier to file a reply in the case otherwise it will initiate indictment proceedings on the next hearing on May 14," a court official told PTI. However, Hamza Sharif appeared before the court. Also read | Russia, United States swap prisoners, Biden calls it 'difficult decision' The official said the court also directed Shehbaz's counsel Advocate Amjad Pervez to present arguments before the court on May 14 on his contention that his client can't be indicted in this case. Shehbaz is also the President of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party. Shehbaz and his sons - Hamza and Suleman - were booked by FIA in November 2020 under various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act and Anti Money Laundering Act. Suleman is absconding and residing in the UK. The FIA investigation has detected 28 benami accounts, allegedly of the Shehbaz family, through which an amount of 14 billion Pakistani Rupees (USD 75 million) was laundered from 2008 to 2018. The FIA examined the money trail of 17,000 credit transactions. The amount was kept in 'hidden accounts' and given to Shehbaz in his personal capacity, according to the charges. Also read | US warship sails through Taiwan Strait, China calls it 'provocative action' Meanwhile, the Lahore High Court on Wednesday directed Punjab Governor Omer Sarfaraz Cheema to ensure the completion of the process of administering oath to Chief Minister-elect Hamza Shehbaz by April 28, either doing so himself or through a nominee. Hamza was elected chief minister on April 16. Hamza and his party blamed ousted prime minister Imran Khan for the delay in oath-taking. WATCH | Pakistan: Three Chinese nationals among Four killed in Karachi University blast

Pakistani court extends pre-arrest bail to PM Shehbaz Sharif in money laundering case

The number of COVID-19 cases have gone down in Europe in the past few months, and it seems like the European Commission will be entering a new post-emergency phase in their handling of the pandemic, according to a draft document that was accessed by Reuters.

The Reuters report stated that the European Commission will be moving away from the emergency phase and that may result into more targeted testing of the cases. The documents hinted at a comparatively lenient approach where the process will be somewhat similar to flu surveillance.

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There has been a steady fall in COVID-19 cases and deaths the distribution of booster shots has resulted in the immunisation of almost 70 per cent of the total European population.

"This Communication puts forward an approach for the management of the pandemic in the coming months, moving from emergency to a more sustainable mode," the report said according to Reuters.

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The document, which was prepared by Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides, also states that a new approach needs to be adopted with the change in the number of regular cases. As a result, mass testing can be a thing of the past with people getting tested only if they show certain symptoms.

Although the EU Commission is looking to change their approach towards the pandemic, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has made it clear that the COVID-19 pandemic is not over and there are a lot of countries like China and South Korea who are experiencing another surge in cases.

WATCH |&nbsp;China COVID surge: Mandatory mass testing enters 3rd day in Beijing

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-covid-surge-mandatory-mass-testing-enters-3rd-day-in-beijing-474308/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">(With inputs from agencies)</div>

The number of COVID-19 cases have gone down in Europe in the past few months, and it seems like the European Commission will be entering a new post-emergency phase in their handling of the pandemic, according to a draft document that was accessed by Reuters.

The number of COVID-19 cases have gone down in Europe in the past few months, and it seems like the European Commission will be entering a new post-emergency phase in their handling of the pandemic, according to a draft document that was accessed by Reuters. The Reuters report stated that the European Commission will be moving away from the emergency phase and that may result into more targeted testing of the cases. The documents hinted at a comparatively lenient approach where the process will be somewhat similar to flu surveillance. Also read | US warship sails through Taiwan Strait, China calls it 'provocative action' There has been a steady fall in COVID-19 cases and deaths the distribution of booster shots has resulted in the immunisation of almost 70 per cent of the total European population. "This Communication puts forward an approach for the management of the pandemic in the coming months, moving from emergency to a more sustainable mode," the report said according to Reuters. Also read | Videos of Putin appearing fidgety at Easter service sparks health rumours The document, which was prepared by Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides, also states that a new approach needs to be adopted with the change in the number of regular cases. As a result, mass testing can be a thing of the past with people getting tested only if they show certain symptoms. Although the EU Commission is looking to change their approach towards the pandemic, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has made it clear that the COVID-19 pandemic is not over and there are a lot of countries like China and South Korea who are experiencing another surge in cases. WATCH | China COVID surge: Mandatory mass testing enters 3rd day in Beijing (With inputs from agencies)

EU set to embrace new COVID-19 pandemic phase with steady decrease in cases - Report

The initial public offering (IPO) of the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) will open for the anchor investors on May 2 and the general public will be offered the IPO from May 4 to May 9.

The announcement was made by LIC in their press conference on Wednesday.

LIC chairman MR Kumar called the public issue ‘LIC 3.0’ and said that it will open between INR 902 to INR 949. Policyholders will be given an INR 60 discount and retail investors will get INR 45 discount.

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LIC is also expected to be listed on the stock exchanges on May 17.

DIPAM secretary Tuhin Kanta Pandey confirmed that the LIC IPO will be the biggest initial public offering in the history of the Indian market but also pointed out that the size of the IPO is perfect for the market considering the constraints and the long-term goals as a prominent value creator.

"This (LIC IPO) is right sized, considering the capital market environment and will not crowd out capital supply given the current market environment," Pandey said according to a PTI report.

According to the report, the Indian government will sell around 3.5 percent of its stake in LIC for INR 21,000 crores which will mean that LIC will be valued at INR 6 lakh crore.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-becomes-latest-indian-state-to-make-wearing-masks-in-public-mandatory-amid-surge-in-covid-19-cases-474261" hreflang="en">Kerala becomes latest Indian state to make wearing masks in public mandatory</a>

"Valuation reported was speculative. It is neither being undervalued or overvalued. Valuation process is a discovery process. Its embedded value is difficult to decipher even for us. This (3.5% for INR 21,000 crore) is a fair and attractive valuation," Pandey was quoted as saying.

The government was supposed to sell its stakes in March 2022, but it was delayed due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis. The Indian markets have somewhat recovered from the jolts of COVID-19 pandemic and the listing of LIC in the stock market is expected to stabilise the situation even more.

WATCH |&nbsp;India's coal reserves fall. What does it mean?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-coal-reserves-fall-what-does-it-mean-474287/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The initial public offering (IPO) of the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) will open for the anchor investors on May 2 and the general public will be offered the IPO from May 4 to May 9.

The initial public offering (IPO) of the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) will open for the anchor investors on May 2 and the general public will be offered the IPO from May 4 to May 9. The announcement was made by LIC in their press conference on Wednesday. LIC chairman MR Kumar called the public issue ‘LIC 3.0’ and said that it will open between INR 902 to INR 949. Policyholders will be given an INR 60 discount and retail investors will get INR 45 discount. Also read | Musk criticises Twitter's censorship lawyer Gadde after buying the platform LIC is also expected to be listed on the stock exchanges on May 17. DIPAM secretary Tuhin Kanta Pandey confirmed that the LIC IPO will be the biggest initial public offering in the history of the Indian market but also pointed out that the size of the IPO is perfect for the market considering the constraints and the long-term goals as a prominent value creator. "This (LIC IPO) is right sized, considering the capital market environment and will not crowd out capital supply given the current market environment," Pandey said according to a PTI report. According to the report, the Indian government will sell around 3.5 percent of its stake in LIC for INR 21,000 crores which will mean that LIC will be valued at INR 6 lakh crore. Also read | Kerala becomes latest Indian state to make wearing masks in public mandatory "Valuation reported was speculative. It is neither being undervalued or overvalued. Valuation process is a discovery process. Its embedded value is difficult to decipher even for us. This (3.5% for INR 21,000 crore) is a fair and attractive valuation," Pandey was quoted as saying. The government was supposed to sell its stakes in March 2022, but it was delayed due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis. The Indian markets have somewhat recovered from the jolts of COVID-19 pandemic and the listing of LIC in the stock market is expected to stabilise the situation even more. WATCH | India's coal reserves fall. What does it mean?

LIC IPO to open to general public on May 4, expected to be biggest in India despite reduced offer size

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

The Russian defence ministry announced on Wednesday that they have destroyed a huge number of weapons sent by Western countries in the south-east regions of Ukraine. The operation was carried out with the help of long-range missiles and the ministry said that the mission was a major success.

Russia has expressed its displeasure over the supply of weapons from the United States and other Western countries and the foreign ministry positioned this mission as a victory for them.

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"On the territory of the Zaporizhzhia aluminium plant, high-precision long-range sea-based Kalibr missiles destroyed hangars with a large batch of foreign weapons and ammunition supplied by the United States and European countries for Ukrainian troops," the ministry said in a briefing.

However, the type of weapons which were destroyed in the mission were not specified.

Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky has been asking for more arms and ammunition from countries all around the world in order to contact the Russian forces during the ongoing invasion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-unleashes-string-of-attack-against-ukraines-rail-fuel-facilities-473702" hreflang="en">Russia unleashes string of attacks against Ukraine's rail, fuel facilities</a>

The Russian forces have taken over a major part of Mariupol and Zelensky said on Tuesday that the arms are extremely important in order to stop their progress in the Donbas region of Ukraine.

The United States have pledged a huge amount of military aid to Ukraine with heavy ammunition and the new batch of Phoenix Ghost tactical drones which are currently being used by US Air Force.

However, the US and NATO have made it clear that they will not sending forces to Ukraine during the conflict.

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine-Russia war: What are anti-radiation medicines? Side effects &amp; availability

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-russia-war-what-are-anti-radiation-medicines-side-effects-availability-471853/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">(With inputs from agencies)</div>

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. The Russian defence ministry announced on Wednesday that they have destroyed a huge number of weapons sent by Western countries in the south-east regions of Ukraine. The operation was carried out with the help of long-range missiles and the ministry said that the mission was a major success. Russia has expressed its displeasure over the supply of weapons from the United States and other Western countries and the foreign ministry positioned this mission as a victory for them. Also read | Danger of World War III is 'real', warns Russian foreign minister Lavrov "On the territory of the Zaporizhzhia aluminium plant, high-precision long-range sea-based Kalibr missiles destroyed hangars with a large batch of foreign weapons and ammunition supplied by the United States and European countries for Ukrainian troops," the ministry said in a briefing. However, the type of weapons which were destroyed in the mission were not specified. Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky has been asking for more arms and ammunition from countries all around the world in order to contact the Russian forces during the ongoing invasion. Also read | Russia unleashes string of attacks against Ukraine's rail, fuel facilities The Russian forces have taken over a major part of Mariupol and Zelensky said on Tuesday that the arms are extremely important in order to stop their progress in the Donbas region of Ukraine. The United States have pledged a huge amount of military aid to Ukraine with heavy ammunition and the new batch of Phoenix Ghost tactical drones which are currently being used by US Air Force. However, the US and NATO have made it clear that they will not sending forces to Ukraine during the conflict. WATCH | Ukraine-Russia war: What are anti-radiation medicines? Side effects & availability (With inputs from agencies)

Russia claims destruction of 'large batch' of Western-supplied weapons in missile strike in Ukraine

The train system of Japan is a matter of pride for the country as it is one of the most important transport systems for the public and it is well known for its speed and accessibility. The train system will be adding another feather to its cap as they are about to take an extremely important decision.

Tokyo Railways have decided that the trains running through Shibuya and other stations of the city will switch to renewable energy sources. The seven train lines and one tram line that operates in the region will have zero carbon dioxide emissions as a result of this move.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-executes-indian-origin-man-over-drug-trafficking-charges-474166">Singapore executes mentally disabled Indian-origin Malaysian man</a>

The use of renewable energy will not be limited to just the trains as lighting, vending machines and even security screens will be powered by alternative sources in these stations as Tokyu became the first operator in the country to achieve the target of creating a complete emission-free system.

According to a report by Associated press, the move was welcomed by Nicholas Little, director of railway education at Michigan State University’s Center for Railway Research and Education.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-day-after-twitter-takeover-elon-musk-reacts-to-concerns-over-free-speech-474170">A day after Twitter takeover, Elon Musk reacts to concerns over free speech</a>

“I would stress the bigger impacts come from increasing electricity generation from renewable sources,” he said. “The long-term battle is to increase production of renewable electricity and provide the transmission infrastructure to get it to the places of consumption,” he said.

On the other hand, Ryo Takagi, a professor at Kogakuin University and specialist in electric railway systems, said that the move is a start but the goal is still quite far away from the railway companies.

“But I am not going out of my way to praise it as great,” Takagi said.

“Bigger gains would come from switching from diesel trains in rural areas to hydrogen powered lines and from switching gas-guzzling cars to electric,” he was quoted as saying by the AP report.

The train system of Japan is a matter of pride for the country as it is one of the most important transport systems for the public and it is well known for its speed and accessibility.

The train system of Japan is a matter of pride for the country as it is one of the most important transport systems for the public and it is well known for its speed and accessibility. The train system will be adding another feather to its cap as they are about to take an extremely important decision. Tokyo Railways have decided that the trains running through Shibuya and other stations of the city will switch to renewable energy sources. The seven train lines and one tram line that operates in the region will have zero carbon dioxide emissions as a result of this move. Also read | Singapore executes mentally disabled Indian-origin Malaysian man The use of renewable energy will not be limited to just the trains as lighting, vending machines and even security screens will be powered by alternative sources in these stations as Tokyu became the first operator in the country to achieve the target of creating a complete emission-free system. According to a report by Associated press, the move was welcomed by Nicholas Little, director of railway education at Michigan State University’s Center for Railway Research and Education. Also read | A day after Twitter takeover, Elon Musk reacts to concerns over free speech “I would stress the bigger impacts come from increasing electricity generation from renewable sources,” he said. “The long-term battle is to increase production of renewable electricity and provide the transmission infrastructure to get it to the places of consumption,” he said. On the other hand, Ryo Takagi, a professor at Kogakuin University and specialist in electric railway systems, said that the move is a start but the goal is still quite far away from the railway companies. “But I am not going out of my way to praise it as great,” Takagi said. “Bigger gains would come from switching from diesel trains in rural areas to hydrogen powered lines and from switching gas-guzzling cars to electric,” he was quoted as saying by the AP report.

Major Japan railway goes green, makes complete shift to renewable energy

The rise in COVID-19 cases in India has caused a lot of concern among the experts and on Wednesday, Kerala became the latest state to make wearing masks compulsory in public.

The decision was taken after a review meeting chaired by the state’s health minister Veena George on Monday advised that the state needs to increase vigilance when it comes to social distancing and also put special emphasis on people wearing masks in public as the number of cases continue to rise.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/study-shows-key-ingredients-needed-for-life-on-earth-may-have-arrived-from-outer-space-474239" hreflang="en">Study shows key ingredients needed for life on earth may have arrived from outer space</a>

An order was passed by the government which said that the mask mandate will be compulsory, and anyone found flouting the rules will be punished under the Disaster Management Act of India.

India has experienced a huge surge of cases and states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, and Punjab have already passed mask mandates.

The Kerala government decided to lift most of its existing measures which were implemented to combat COVID-19 as cases fell massively. However, with the change in situation, all the rules are expected to come back and a fine on not wearing masks in public is also expected in the future.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-11-electrocuted-during-temple-chariot-procession-in-tamil-nadu-474176" hreflang="en">At least 11 electrocuted during temple chariot procession in Tamil Nadu</a>

According to the official date provided by the Indian Health Ministry, 2927 cases were reported on Tuesday taking the total number of active patients in the country to 16,279.

The booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccines are available to the public and the country is looking to get a majority of their population vaccinated with the booster dose before the rumoured ‘fourth wave’ of the pandemic.

WATCH |&nbsp;India's fight against COVID: Covaxin &amp; Corbevax gets green light

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-fight-against-covid-covaxin-corbevax-gets-green-light-474065/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The rise in COVID-19 cases in India has caused a lot of concern among the experts and on Wednesday, Kerala became the latest state to make wearing masks compulsory in public.

The rise in COVID-19 cases in India has caused a lot of concern among the experts and on Wednesday, Kerala became the latest state to make wearing masks compulsory in public. The decision was taken after a review meeting chaired by the state’s health minister Veena George on Monday advised that the state needs to increase vigilance when it comes to social distancing and also put special emphasis on people wearing masks in public as the number of cases continue to rise. Also read | Study shows key ingredients needed for life on earth may have arrived from outer space An order was passed by the government which said that the mask mandate will be compulsory, and anyone found flouting the rules will be punished under the Disaster Management Act of India. India has experienced a huge surge of cases and states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, and Punjab have already passed mask mandates. The Kerala government decided to lift most of its existing measures which were implemented to combat COVID-19 as cases fell massively. However, with the change in situation, all the rules are expected to come back and a fine on not wearing masks in public is also expected in the future. Also read | At least 11 electrocuted during temple chariot procession in Tamil Nadu According to the official date provided by the Indian Health Ministry, 2927 cases were reported on Tuesday taking the total number of active patients in the country to 16,279. The booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccines are available to the public and the country is looking to get a majority of their population vaccinated with the booster dose before the rumoured ‘fourth wave’ of the pandemic. WATCH | India's fight against COVID: Covaxin & Corbevax gets green light

Kerala becomes latest Indian state to make wearing masks in public mandatory amid surge in COVID-19 cases

The origin of the world and its subsequent development has been a keen source of interest for scientists. They have conducted huge number of tests in order to determine the source of life on the planet and it seems that a latest study can hold important answer to the age-old questions.

A study conducted by Yasuhiro Oba of Hokkaido University’s Institute of Low Temperature Science in Japan and astrobiologist Danny Glavin of NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland hints at the fact that ingredients needed for the advent of life on earth may have arrived from outer space.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-us-europe-japan-reports-first-case-of-mysterious-hepatitis-474195">After US &amp; Europe, Japan reports first case of mysterious hepatitis</a>

The study, which was published in the journal Nature Communications, included the examination of meteorites which were found in the United States, Australia and Canada. It was found the meteorites contained three out of five chemical components needed in the formation of DNA. The other two components were also detected after the researchers adjusted the system of analysis.

The meteorites examined in the study were from three different sources – one from the US state of Kentucky in 1950, one from the Tagish Lake in Canada in 2000 and the third one from Victoria in Australia in 1969. All of them were carbonaceous chondrites – a carbon-rich rocky material.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/autopsy-based-indian-study-reveals-deadly-coronavirus-goes-to-almost-all-the-organs-474199" hreflang="en">Autopsy-based Indian study reveals deadly coronavirus 'goes to almost all the organs'</a>

According to Yasuhiro Oba, the method used in the experiment did not include strong acids in order to extract the components from the meteorites. As a result, the study further bolsters the theory that meteorites played a major role in the development of the first living organisms in the world.

WATCH |&nbsp;Global airline capacity peaks in 2022

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-airline-capacity-peaks-in-2022-474213/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The origin of the world and its subsequent development has been a keen source of interest for scientists. They have conducted huge number of tests in order to determine the source of life on the planet and it seems that a latest study can hold important answer to the age-old questions.

The origin of the world and its subsequent development has been a keen source of interest for scientists. They have conducted huge number of tests in order to determine the source of life on the planet and it seems that a latest study can hold important answer to the age-old questions. A study conducted by Yasuhiro Oba of Hokkaido University’s Institute of Low Temperature Science in Japan and astrobiologist Danny Glavin of NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland hints at the fact that ingredients needed for the advent of life on earth may have arrived from outer space. Also read | After US & Europe, Japan reports first case of mysterious hepatitis The study, which was published in the journal Nature Communications, included the examination of meteorites which were found in the United States, Australia and Canada. It was found the meteorites contained three out of five chemical components needed in the formation of DNA. The other two components were also detected after the researchers adjusted the system of analysis. The meteorites examined in the study were from three different sources – one from the US state of Kentucky in 1950, one from the Tagish Lake in Canada in 2000 and the third one from Victoria in Australia in 1969. All of them were carbonaceous chondrites – a carbon-rich rocky material. Also read | Autopsy-based Indian study reveals deadly coronavirus 'goes to almost all the organs' According to Yasuhiro Oba, the method used in the experiment did not include strong acids in order to extract the components from the meteorites. As a result, the study further bolsters the theory that meteorites played a major role in the development of the first living organisms in the world. WATCH | Global airline capacity peaks in 2022

Study shows key ingredients needed for life on earth may have arrived from outer space

Krunal Pandya claimed 3/19 after skipper KL Rahul struck an unbeaten 103 as Lucknow Super Giants handed Mumbai Indians a second successive defeat this season, winning by 36 runs in Match 37 of IPL 2022 at the Wankhede Stadium here on Sunday. 
 
Krunal picked up the wickets of dangerous Rohit Sharma (39), Mumbai Indians` top scorer, Kieron Pollard (19) and Daniel Sams (3) to lead a clinical bowling performance by Lucknow Super Giants as they registered their fifth win of the season and moved to fourth in the points table with 10 points. 
 
Gujarat Titans lead with 12 points followed by Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rajasthan Royals, Lucknow Super Giants, and Royal Challengers Bangalore -- in that order -- all with 10 points.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-kl-rahul-equals-rohit-sharmas-t20-record-with-sensational-century-against-mumbai-indians-473493">KL Rahul equals Rohit Sharma's T20 record with sensational century against MI</a> 
 
Mumbai Indians` woeful season continued as they slumped to their eighth defeat of the season and remain winless, plumbing the bottom of the table. 
 
After restricting LSG to 168/6 despite Rahul`s unbeaten century, Mumbai Indians were in a good position to go for their first win of the season. Things started well but they lost their way in the middle overs and succumbed to another defeat. 
 
Mumbai Indians had a good start, reaching 43/0 in the power-play, While Ishan Kishan, Mumbai Indian`s costliest buy in the mega auction before IPL 2022, scratched around for a 20-ball eight, skipper Rohit Sharma looked in good form as he made for him partner`s lack of runs. 
 
Rohit started with a four of the last ball of the first over, cutting a short and wide one by Mohsin Khan over backward point for a one-bounce four. He smashed Jason Holder and D Chameera for boundaries in successive overs and then struck Holder for a six and a four off successive deliveries in the sixth over.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/five-records-of-sachin-tendulkar-that-are-nearly-impossible-to-break-473484" hreflang="en">Five records of Sachin Tendulkar that are nearly impossible to break</a> 
 
But just when it looked like he and Suryakumar Yadav would take Mumbai to safety, Rohit got out, caught by substitute K Gowtham at short third man as the Mumbai Indians skipper attempts to slog over a length ball by Krunal on off-stump and top-edges it. 
 
Suryakumar Yadav, promoted in the batting order for this match, did not last long as he is out for 7, Mumbai Indians slumping to 67/4. 
 
Young Tilak Varma and the seasoned Kieron Pollard kept the fight alive by raising 57 runs for the fifth wicket, Varma hitting some pleasing shots as he took the battle to the LSG bowlers. 
 
But he got out at the most inappropriate time for Mumbai Indians, caught by Ravi Bishnoi of Jason Holder for 38 (31 balls, 2x4, 2x6) as Mumbai slumped to 124/5. Pollard too was out soon, trying to force the pace, caught by Dipak Hoods off Krunal Pandya and Mumbai Indians` hopes ended as they went on to lose by 36 runs.

Krunal Pandya claimed 3/19 after skipper KL Rahul struck an unbeaten 103 as Lucknow Super Giants handed Mumbai Indians a second successive defeat this season, winning by 36 runs in Match 37 of IPL 2022 at the Wankhede Stadium here on Sunday.

Krunal Pandya claimed 3/19 after skipper KL Rahul struck an unbeaten 103 as Lucknow Super Giants handed Mumbai Indians a second successive defeat this season, winning by 36 runs in Match 37 of IPL 2022 at the Wankhede Stadium here on Sunday. Krunal picked up the wickets of dangerous Rohit Sharma (39), Mumbai Indians` top scorer, Kieron Pollard (19) and Daniel Sams (3) to lead a clinical bowling performance by Lucknow Super Giants as they registered their fifth win of the season and moved to fourth in the points table with 10 points. Gujarat Titans lead with 12 points followed by Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rajasthan Royals, Lucknow Super Giants, and Royal Challengers Bangalore -- in that order -- all with 10 points. Also read | KL Rahul equals Rohit Sharma's T20 record with sensational century against MI Mumbai Indians` woeful season continued as they slumped to their eighth defeat of the season and remain winless, plumbing the bottom of the table. After restricting LSG to 168/6 despite Rahul`s unbeaten century, Mumbai Indians were in a good position to go for their first win of the season. Things started well but they lost their way in the middle overs and succumbed to another defeat. Mumbai Indians had a good start, reaching 43/0 in the power-play, While Ishan Kishan, Mumbai Indian`s costliest buy in the mega auction before IPL 2022, scratched around for a 20-ball eight, skipper Rohit Sharma looked in good form as he made for him partner`s lack of runs. Rohit started with a four of the last ball of the first over, cutting a short and wide one by Mohsin Khan over backward point for a one-bounce four. He smashed Jason Holder and D Chameera for boundaries in successive overs and then struck Holder for a six and a four off successive deliveries in the sixth over. Also read | Five records of Sachin Tendulkar that are nearly impossible to break But just when it looked like he and Suryakumar Yadav would take Mumbai to safety, Rohit got out, caught by substitute K Gowtham at short third man as the Mumbai Indians skipper attempts to slog over a length ball by Krunal on off-stump and top-edges it. Suryakumar Yadav, promoted in the batting order for this match, did not last long as he is out for 7, Mumbai Indians slumping to 67/4. Young Tilak Varma and the seasoned Kieron Pollard kept the fight alive by raising 57 runs for the fifth wicket, Varma hitting some pleasing shots as he took the battle to the LSG bowlers. But he got out at the most inappropriate time for Mumbai Indians, caught by Ravi Bishnoi of Jason Holder for 38 (31 balls, 2x4, 2x6) as Mumbai slumped to 124/5. Pollard too was out soon, trying to force the pace, caught by Dipak Hoods off Krunal Pandya and Mumbai Indians` hopes ended as they went on to lose by 36 runs.

IPL 2022: KL Rahul scores brilliant century as Lucknow Super Giants beat Mumbai Indians

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