The dismissal of the curative petition of Akshay Thakur by the Supreme Court has brought the convicts closer to their execution and now without any delay, they should be hanged on February 1, said Nirbhaya's mother Asha Devi on Thursday.

"They have moved a step forward towards their execution. Now, nothing is left to provide them as they were given all the time. All that is left is to hang them. Now, they should be hanged without any delay," Devi told ANI.

"It's not only me but everyone has understood that they are trying to delay the execution. They have made a mockery of the system. I still hope that they will be hanged on February 1 and will continue with the fight," she added.

Expressing happiness over the Supreme Court's decision, Nirbhaya's father Badrinath Singh said, "I welcome the decision of the top court. There is, of course, a delay in the process but we are not disappointed. We hope they will be hanged soon."

Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court dismissed the curative petition of Akshay Thakur, who had sought the commutation of his death sentence to life imprisonment.

A five-judge bench of the apex court headed by Justice NV Ramana heard the matter.

The curative petition, which was filed by advocate AP Singh on behalf of Akshay, sought the commutation of the sentence of the petitioner "as it serves all the purposes that the death penalty claims to serve and protects society from the impending reality in the near-future in which torture and murder are equated with justice as a panacea for all social evils."&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The dismissal of the curative petition of Akshay Thakur by the Supreme Court has brought the convicts closer to their execution and now without any delay, they should be hanged on February 1, said Nirbhaya's mother Asha Devi on Thursday.

The dismissal of the curative petition of Akshay Thakur by the Supreme Court has brought the convicts closer to their execution and now without any delay, they should be hanged on February 1, said Nirbhaya's mother Asha Devi on Thursday. "They have moved a step forward towards their execution. Now, nothing is left to provide them as they were given all the time. All that is left is to hang them. Now, they should be hanged without any delay," Devi told ANI. "It's not only me but everyone has understood that they are trying to delay the execution. They have made a mockery of the system. I still hope that they will be hanged on February 1 and will continue with the fight," she added. Expressing happiness over the Supreme Court's decision, Nirbhaya's father Badrinath Singh said, "I welcome the decision of the top court. There is, of course, a delay in the process but we are not disappointed. We hope they will be hanged soon." Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court dismissed the curative petition of Akshay Thakur, who had sought the commutation of his death sentence to life imprisonment. A five-judge bench of the apex court headed by Justice NV Ramana heard the matter. The curative petition, which was filed by advocate AP Singh on behalf of Akshay, sought the commutation of the sentence of the petitioner "as it serves all the purposes that the death penalty claims to serve and protects society from the impending reality in the near-future in which torture and murder are equated with justice as a panacea for all social evils."

After Supreme Court dismisses curative petition, I hope convicts are hanged on February 1: Nirbhaya's mother

Successful rehabilitation of Bru refugees in Tripura has brought smiles and cheer to tribal folk in Tripura.

The major decision came after the tripartite agreement was signed by the centre, Tripura, Mizoram state governments and Bru representatives.

Bru or Reang refugees are a primitive minority tribe and the second most populous tribe after Tripuris in the state of Tripura.

More than 30,000 Bru refugees, whose repatriation was uncertain for several years, will finally be able to settle in Tripura.

The Bru community fled from Mizoram following ethnic clashes in 1997 and has been languishing in seven camps in North Tripura for years.

They are now happy as after years of struggle, blood and sweat, they will permanently settle and will no longer be termed as refugees.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bru-refugee-agreement-how-does-the-deal-solve-over-two-decade-old-crisis-274727">Bru refugee agreement - How does the deal solve over two-decade-old crisis?</a>

A bru tribal, Bamsarai Reang said, "We came from Mizoram and have been living in Tripura for last 22 years. Now that we will be settled here, we are happy and it is a good decision. Earlier, we faced difficulties in Mizoram and so we escape here in Tripura."

Members of the Bru community said that they have been through a lot of struggle and deprived of basic amenities like shelter, clean water, food, employment, education, health facilities, electricity, and road connectivity for long.

"We are from Mizoram and we faced a lot of problem. We are happy now and we hope that our future generation would be better than before," Marina Reang, a Bru tribal said.

The Bru people and their leaders hoped that their days of struggle shall end very soon. General Secretary, Mizoram Bru Indigenous Democratic Movement, Philip Apito, "We are facing a lot of problems not only with education but also with our livelihood... we have no cooking materials, safe drinking water, educational facilities and all the documents. We have faced a lot of things which we are supposed to get as human beings. We are fighting for education."

"By the grace of God, we are having a proper settlement in Tripura under the initiative of the central and the state governments. We are extremely grateful for their sincere support and cooperation. Our future is better than before," he said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-a-historic-step-union-minister-amit-shah-signs-bru-agreement-to-end-over-two-decade-old-crisis-274715">In a historic step, Union Minister Amit Shah signs Bru agreement to end over two-decade old crisis</a>

The Mizoram government has made at least nine attempts to repatriate the Brus since 2009 but they have been refusing to return to the state citing security reasons and insufficient rehabilitation packages offered by the Centre.

Hence, the new agreement has been signed recently, has brought a glimmer of hope among the distressed Bru Tribals.

The Brus would get all the rights that other residents of the state get and would now be able to enjoy the schemes and benefits of the Centre and the state governments.

It is worth noting that a large section of people are getting their documentation done while others are opening bank accounts as the Centre has already declared a 600 crore rupees rehabilitation package for them.&nbsp;

Successful rehabilitation of Bru refugees in Tripura has brought smiles and cheer to tribal folk in Tripura. The major decision came after the tripartite agreement was signed by the centre, Tripura, Mizoram state governments and Bru representatives.

Successful rehabilitation of Bru refugees in Tripura has brought smiles and cheer to tribal folk in Tripura. The major decision came after the tripartite agreement was signed by the centre, Tripura, Mizoram state governments and Bru representatives. Bru or Reang refugees are a primitive minority tribe and the second most populous tribe after Tripuris in the state of Tripura. More than 30,000 Bru refugees, whose repatriation was uncertain for several years, will finally be able to settle in Tripura. The Bru community fled from Mizoram following ethnic clashes in 1997 and has been languishing in seven camps in North Tripura for years. They are now happy as after years of struggle, blood and sweat, they will permanently settle and will no longer be termed as refugees. Also read: Bru refugee agreement - How does the deal solve over two-decade-old crisis? A bru tribal, Bamsarai Reang said, "We came from Mizoram and have been living in Tripura for last 22 years. Now that we will be settled here, we are happy and it is a good decision. Earlier, we faced difficulties in Mizoram and so we escape here in Tripura." Members of the Bru community said that they have been through a lot of struggle and deprived of basic amenities like shelter, clean water, food, employment, education, health facilities, electricity, and road connectivity for long. "We are from Mizoram and we faced a lot of problem. We are happy now and we hope that our future generation would be better than before," Marina Reang, a Bru tribal said. The Bru people and their leaders hoped that their days of struggle shall end very soon. General Secretary, Mizoram Bru Indigenous Democratic Movement, Philip Apito, "We are facing a lot of problems not only with education but also with our livelihood... we have no cooking materials, safe drinking water, educational facilities and all the documents. We have faced a lot of things which we are supposed to get as human beings. We are fighting for education." "By the grace of God, we are having a proper settlement in Tripura under the initiative of the central and the state governments. We are extremely grateful for their sincere support and cooperation. Our future is better than before," he said. Also read: In a historic step, Union Minister Amit Shah signs Bru agreement to end over two-decade old crisis The Mizoram government has made at least nine attempts to repatriate the Brus since 2009 but they have been refusing to return to the state citing security reasons and insufficient rehabilitation packages offered by the Centre. Hence, the new agreement has been signed recently, has brought a glimmer of hope among the distressed Bru Tribals. The Brus would get all the rights that other residents of the state get and would now be able to enjoy the schemes and benefits of the Centre and the state governments. It is worth noting that a large section of people are getting their documentation done while others are opening bank accounts as the Centre has already declared a 600 crore rupees rehabilitation package for them.

For Bru refugees in Tripura, hope after years of struggle for settlement

Thai Airways has been at the receiving end of a lot of criticism for denying a woman and her two daughters entry into business class owing to their weight.&nbsp;

According to reports, a 59-year-old woman from Auckland, New Zealand, and her two daughters were not let onto the business class flight from Bangkok to Auckland owing to their size&nbsp;

Thai Airways made headlines over a similar issue last year.&nbsp;

Thai Airways International (THAI) had said that it had put a limit on the waist sizes for its passengers and had also put a ban on carrying infants on laps in business class on two of its Boeing 787-9 aircraft.

As per reports, the airlines had said that the limit and the ban on carrying kids in the lap was a consequence of the installation of safety seat belt airbags.

It was reported that passengers with a waistline over 56 inches (142.24 centimetres) could not fasten these new seatbelt airbags which meet US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety standards.&nbsp;

Thai Airways has been at the receiving end of a lot of criticism for denying a woman and her two daughters entry into business class owing to their weight. According to reports, a 59-year-old woman from Auckland, New Zealand, and her two daughters were not let onto the business class flight from Bangkok to Auckland owing to their size Thai Airways made headlines over a similar issue last year.

Thai Airways has been at the receiving end of a lot of criticism for denying a woman and her two daughters entry into business class owing to their weight. According to reports, a 59-year-old woman from Auckland, New Zealand, and her two daughters were not let onto the business class flight from Bangkok to Auckland owing to their size Thai Airways made headlines over a similar issue last year. Thai Airways International (THAI) had said that it had put a limit on the waist sizes for its passengers and had also put a ban on carrying infants on laps in business class on two of its Boeing 787-9 aircraft. As per reports, the airlines had said that the limit and the ban on carrying kids in the lap was a consequence of the installation of safety seat belt airbags. It was reported that passengers with a waistline over 56 inches (142.24 centimetres) could not fasten these new seatbelt airbags which meet US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety standards.

Three Auckland women denied entry on plane by Thai Airlines owing to their weight

India can end up with a real GDP growth of five per cent this financial year excluding the inflation rate, Bibek Debroy, the chairman of PM's Economic Advisory Council said on Friday.

In the present scenario achieving a nine per cent GDP growth will be difficult, he said at the Tata Steel Kolkata Literary Meet.

"The aspirational growth rate could be between 6.5 per cent to 7 per cent. At this stage it will be difficult to attain nine per cent GDP growth," he said.

"This year the growth rate will end at five per cent and this is real and not nominal ... Next year, the GDP growth rate could be anything between 6 to 6.5 per cent," he said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-forecasts-201920-gdp-growth-rate-at-5-272748">India forecasts 2019/20 GDP growth rate at 5%</a>

Recently IMF had pegged India's GDP growth at 4.8 per cent for 2019-20, much less than its October projection of 6.1 per cent.

Debroy said that Indian economy at present is growing in an environment which is somewhat protectionist and has declining exports.

"The period during which the country grew at high GDP growth rates like nine per cent, the exports-to-GDP ratio was 20 per cent. But now with developed countries resorting to protectionism and after the collapse of the WTO, the contribution of exports to GDP in a large way does not seem possible", he said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/not-worried-over-slow-gdp-growth-pranab-mukherjee-267778">Not worried over slow GDP growth - Pranab Mukherjee</a>

Debroy said "With India being strong in services and not manufacturing, the country will have to give some to get some. It is a quid pro quo situation particularly in a regional trade bloc kind of arrangement".

On the taxation regime, he said that the country is moving towards a stable direct tax regime without any exemption.

"Goods and Services Tax (GST) is still work in progress. GST was supposed to be revenue-neutral. But the government has lost revenue post-GST implementation, which is not tenable," Debroy said.

He said, "When both direct tax and GST rates get stabilised in future, a day might come when there would be no need to present budgets in the Parliament". 
Regarding the high cost of capital, Debroy said it will continue to be so as it is a scarce resource in India.

India can end up with a real GDP growth of five per cent this financial year excluding the inflation rate, Bibek Debroy, the chairman of PM's Economic Advisory Council said on Friday.

India can end up with a real GDP growth of five per cent this financial year excluding the inflation rate, Bibek Debroy, the chairman of PM's Economic Advisory Council said on Friday. In the present scenario achieving a nine per cent GDP growth will be difficult, he said at the Tata Steel Kolkata Literary Meet. "The aspirational growth rate could be between 6.5 per cent to 7 per cent. At this stage it will be difficult to attain nine per cent GDP growth," he said. "This year the growth rate will end at five per cent and this is real and not nominal ... Next year, the GDP growth rate could be anything between 6 to 6.5 per cent," he said. Also read: India forecasts 2019/20 GDP growth rate at 5% Recently IMF had pegged India's GDP growth at 4.8 per cent for 2019-20, much less than its October projection of 6.1 per cent. Debroy said that Indian economy at present is growing in an environment which is somewhat protectionist and has declining exports. "The period during which the country grew at high GDP growth rates like nine per cent, the exports-to-GDP ratio was 20 per cent. But now with developed countries resorting to protectionism and after the collapse of the WTO, the contribution of exports to GDP in a large way does not seem possible", he said. Also read: Not worried over slow GDP growth - Pranab Mukherjee Debroy said "With India being strong in services and not manufacturing, the country will have to give some to get some. It is a quid pro quo situation particularly in a regional trade bloc kind of arrangement". On the taxation regime, he said that the country is moving towards a stable direct tax regime without any exemption. "Goods and Services Tax (GST) is still work in progress. GST was supposed to be revenue-neutral. But the government has lost revenue post-GST implementation, which is not tenable," Debroy said. He said, "When both direct tax and GST rates get stabilised in future, a day might come when there would be no need to present budgets in the Parliament". Regarding the high cost of capital, Debroy said it will continue to be so as it is a scarce resource in India.

India can end up with 5% real GDP growth this fiscal: Chairman of PM's Economic Advisory Council

In a new study, experts at the University of Cambridge have found that the sense of dissatisfaction with democracy in developed nations has been the highest in the past twenty-five years.

According to reports, data from nearly four million people were collected from over three thousand surveys to arrive at the findings.

The author of the report stated that the state of democracy across the world has hit a state of malaise and is on its way to peak in developed countries.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-mass-demonstrations-hit-france-against-pension-reforms-273251">New mass demonstrations hit France against pension reforms</a>

The survey was carried out in over 150 countries wherein people were asked if they were satisfied with the state of democracy in their own country.

According to reports, the study looked at the pattern of the level of satisfaction with the respective democracies over the period of time. It was found that, over the years, in some countries,&nbsp;the sense of satisfaction with democracy began to swing more towards the negative after registering a positive phase.

As per the study, the deepening financial crises in various countries across the globe have led to this shift in people's sentiment toward their respective democracies.

In pics: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/season-of-discontent-a-look-at-ongoing-protests-across-the-world-257674">Season of discontent - A look at protests across the world</a>

One such example could be cited in France, wherein last year's 'Yellow Vest'&nbsp;protest and strikes against the pension reform made global headlines, enumerating French population's dissent against Macron's leadership.

Despite this, the study reveals that in some European countries like Denmark, Switzerland, Norway and the Netherlands, the level of satisfaction with democracy has been registered at an all-time high.

In a new study, experts at the University of Cambridge have found that the sense of dissatisfaction with democracy in developed nations has been the highest in the past twenty-five years.

In a new study, experts at the University of Cambridge have found that the sense of dissatisfaction with democracy in developed nations has been the highest in the past twenty-five years. According to reports, data from nearly four million people were collected from over three thousand surveys to arrive at the findings. The author of the report stated that the state of democracy across the world has hit a state of malaise and is on its way to peak in developed countries. Also read: New mass demonstrations hit France against pension reforms The survey was carried out in over 150 countries wherein people were asked if they were satisfied with the state of democracy in their own country. According to reports, the study looked at the pattern of the level of satisfaction with the respective democracies over the period of time. It was found that, over the years, in some countries, the sense of satisfaction with democracy began to swing more towards the negative after registering a positive phase. As per the study, the deepening financial crises in various countries across the globe have led to this shift in people's sentiment toward their respective democracies. In pics: Season of discontent - A look at protests across the world One such example could be cited in France, wherein last year's 'Yellow Vest' protest and strikes against the pension reform made global headlines, enumerating French population's dissent against Macron's leadership. Despite this, the study reveals that in some European countries like Denmark, Switzerland, Norway and the Netherlands, the level of satisfaction with democracy has been registered at an all-time high.

Level of satisfaction with democracy is dipping in developed nations: Study

The Union Health Ministry on Wednesday held a meeting with the health secretaries of the states where the 21 identified airports screening passengers for the novel coronavirus infection are located, along with the Airport Health Organization officers, to review their preparedness for prevention and management of the disease.

During the video-conference, Special Secretary in the Union Health Ministry Sanjeeva Kumar also interacted with health secretaries of the states, including those bordering Nepal (Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Sikkim), an official statement said.

The immigration and other staff members at the airports have been sensitised and dedicated ambulances are placed at the airports. Deployment of medical and para-medical staff is also being done for round-the-clock service, it said.

Self-declaration forms are available and signages are being placed at prominent places at all airports. Seven central teams have visited the respective states and helped to strengthen the preparedness too, the statement added.

States and UTs reported that isolation wards have been identified and readied to face any contingency and personal protection equipment are available in adequate quantity, it said.

The statement said tertiary hospitals have also been identified for these airports and the protocols for contact tracing are followed and timely collection and transportation of samples from suspected cases to NIV, Pune, is being done.

In the meeting, states bordering Nepal reported that adequate steps have been taken at the land check posts, and meetings have been organised in villages in the bordering areas to create awareness.

The special secretary added that states need to take pro-active preventive measures by creating awareness among the people through local media.

He assured states of all support from the ministry, including orientation of medical personnel/staff and other agencies through regular video-conferencing, the statement said.&nbsp;

The Union Health Ministry on Wednesday held a meeting with the health secretaries of the states where the 21 identified airports screening passengers for the novel coronavirus infection are located, along with the Airport Health Organization officers, to review their preparedness for prevention and management of the disease.

The Union Health Ministry on Wednesday held a meeting with the health secretaries of the states where the 21 identified airports screening passengers for the novel coronavirus infection are located, along with the Airport Health Organization officers, to review their preparedness for prevention and management of the disease. During the video-conference, Special Secretary in the Union Health Ministry Sanjeeva Kumar also interacted with health secretaries of the states, including those bordering Nepal (Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Sikkim), an official statement said. The immigration and other staff members at the airports have been sensitised and dedicated ambulances are placed at the airports. Deployment of medical and para-medical staff is also being done for round-the-clock service, it said. Self-declaration forms are available and signages are being placed at prominent places at all airports. Seven central teams have visited the respective states and helped to strengthen the preparedness too, the statement added. States and UTs reported that isolation wards have been identified and readied to face any contingency and personal protection equipment are available in adequate quantity, it said. The statement said tertiary hospitals have also been identified for these airports and the protocols for contact tracing are followed and timely collection and transportation of samples from suspected cases to NIV, Pune, is being done. In the meeting, states bordering Nepal reported that adequate steps have been taken at the land check posts, and meetings have been organised in villages in the bordering areas to create awareness. The special secretary added that states need to take pro-active preventive measures by creating awareness among the people through local media. He assured states of all support from the ministry, including orientation of medical personnel/staff and other agencies through regular video-conferencing, the statement said.

Health Ministry reviews states' preparedness for prevention, management of novel coronavirus

The only two Indian carriers that fly to China -- IndiGo and Air India-- on Wednesday announced suspension of most of their flights to the country which is battling a coronavirus outbreak, joining other airlines based in Asia, North America and Europe which have restricted operations to the region, as the deadly virus spread to at least 17 countries.

India has requested China for permission to operate two flights to bring back its nationals from Hubei Province, the epicentre of the outbreak, the Ministry of External Affairs said.

The Indian Embassy in Beijing on Wednesday circulated registration forms and consent notes for the Indians in Wuhan and Hubei province to be filled by them.

A fresh travel advisory asking people to refrain from travelling to China has been issued by the Centre which has ramped up screening across airports, ports and borders.

No case of the deadly virus has been reported in India, though hundreds remain in observation in many states including as many as 806 in Kerala, according to officials.

India's largest airline IndiGo said it has suspended its flights on Bengaluru-Hong Kong route from February 1 and on the Delhi-Chengdu route from February 1 to 20. Similarly, state-run Air India is suspending its flights on Delhi-Shanghai route from January 31 to February 14.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-debuts-in-india-possible-cases-registered-nationwide-infected-thai-national-dead-in-kolkata-277047">Coronavirus scare in India - Possible cases registered nationwide, infected Thai national dead in Kolkata</a>

IndiGo will, for now, continue to operate the Kolkata-Guangzhou flight which it is "monitoring on a daily basis".

The crew of the two airlines working on flights connecting India with South-East Asian countries have been asked to wear N95 masks on the ground and take other precautions like not visiting public places.

British Airways, Indonesia's Lion Air Group, Cathay Pacific, United Airlines and Air Canada are among the carriers that have reportedly suspended or restricted flights to China, with many citing reductions in demand due to coronavirus outbreak.

The disease which emerged in Wuhan, capital of China's Hubei Province, has spread to at least 17 countries, with the United Arab Emirates announcing on Wednesday its first case of the new coronavirus in a family from Wuhan.

The death toll from the disease in China has mounted to 132 with about 6,000 confirmed infections.

The Union Health Ministry has asked people to use 24x7 helpline (011-23978046) for queries related to respiratory infection.

"In the view of the spurt of cases being reported in China and travel-related cases appearing in many countries...All non-essential travel to China to be avoided," it said.

As part of the preparedness, India has also increased the number of airports from seven to 21 where thermal screening of passengers is being done for possible exposure to the deadly nCoV.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-student-from-wuhan-in-ujjain-hospital-isolation-ward-for-possible-coronavirus-infection-277194">Indian student from Wuhan in Ujjain hospital isolation ward for possible coronavirus infection</a>

These include airports at Gaya, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam, Varanasi, Goa, Bhubaneswar and Lucknow besides the seven designated airports identified earlier.

The health ministry also has established four more laboratories apart from the NIV-Pune for testing samples. These labs have been made functional at Alleppey, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Mumbai.

Special Secretary in the Union Health ministry Sanjeeva Kumar chaired a video conference with health secretaries of states where the 21 identified airports are located along with the Airport Health Organization Officers (APHOs) to review their preparedness for prevention and management of novel coronavirus.

He also interacted with health secretaries of the states, including those bordering Nepal (Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Sikkim), an official statement said.

The immigration and other staff members at the airports have been sensitized and dedicated ambulances are placed at the airports. Deployment of medical and para-medical staff is also being done for round-the-clock service, it said.

Meanwhile, India is placed at the 23rd place among "high-risk" countries where the disease can spread, according to a study based on the number of air travellers predicted to arrive in the countries from the worst affected cities in China.

Researchers from the University of Southampton in the UK compiled a list of cities and countries they believe are at high risk from the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) 
The most "at risk" countries or regions worldwide are Thailand (1), Japan (2), and Hong Kong (3). The US is 6th on the list, Australia 10th and the UK 17th.

Novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a large family of viruses that causes illnesses ranging from the common cold to acute respiratory syndromes. The virus, which has killed 132 people and affected at least 6,000 others in China, is a novel strain not seen before.

The AYUSH Ministry has also issued an advisory recommending that homoeopathic and Unani medicine could be effective in the prevention of novel coronavirus (nCoV) infection.

It also mentioned some Ayurvedic practices which can help recess the symptoms of the respiratory tract in possible coronavirus infected cases.

"The Ministry of AYUSH is issuing the advisory as a preventive measure and not claiming to be a treatment advice for the nCoV infection. The Research Councils under Ministry of AYUSH are involved in various public health activities and provide lifestyle advocacies time to time for the general public," the ministry said in a statement.

The only two Indian carriers that fly to China -- IndiGo and Air India-- on Wednesday announced suspension of most of their flights to the country which is battling a coronavirus outbreak, joining other airlines based in Asia, North America and Europe which have restricted operations to the region, as the deadly virus spread to at least 17 countries.

The only two Indian carriers that fly to China -- IndiGo and Air India-- on Wednesday announced suspension of most of their flights to the country which is battling a coronavirus outbreak, joining other airlines based in Asia, North America and Europe which have restricted operations to the region, as the deadly virus spread to at least 17 countries. India has requested China for permission to operate two flights to bring back its nationals from Hubei Province, the epicentre of the outbreak, the Ministry of External Affairs said. The Indian Embassy in Beijing on Wednesday circulated registration forms and consent notes for the Indians in Wuhan and Hubei province to be filled by them. A fresh travel advisory asking people to refrain from travelling to China has been issued by the Centre which has ramped up screening across airports, ports and borders. No case of the deadly virus has been reported in India, though hundreds remain in observation in many states including as many as 806 in Kerala, according to officials. India's largest airline IndiGo said it has suspended its flights on Bengaluru-Hong Kong route from February 1 and on the Delhi-Chengdu route from February 1 to 20. Similarly, state-run Air India is suspending its flights on Delhi-Shanghai route from January 31 to February 14. Also read: Coronavirus scare in India - Possible cases registered nationwide, infected Thai national dead in Kolkata IndiGo will, for now, continue to operate the Kolkata-Guangzhou flight which it is "monitoring on a daily basis". The crew of the two airlines working on flights connecting India with South-East Asian countries have been asked to wear N95 masks on the ground and take other precautions like not visiting public places. British Airways, Indonesia's Lion Air Group, Cathay Pacific, United Airlines and Air Canada are among the carriers that have reportedly suspended or restricted flights to China, with many citing reductions in demand due to coronavirus outbreak. The disease which emerged in Wuhan, capital of China's Hubei Province, has spread to at least 17 countries, with the United Arab Emirates announcing on Wednesday its first case of the new coronavirus in a family from Wuhan. The death toll from the disease in China has mounted to 132 with about 6,000 confirmed infections. The Union Health Ministry has asked people to use 24x7 helpline (011-23978046) for queries related to respiratory infection. "In the view of the spurt of cases being reported in China and travel-related cases appearing in many countries...All non-essential travel to China to be avoided," it said. As part of the preparedness, India has also increased the number of airports from seven to 21 where thermal screening of passengers is being done for possible exposure to the deadly nCoV. Also read: Indian student from Wuhan in Ujjain hospital isolation ward for possible coronavirus infection These include airports at Gaya, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam, Varanasi, Goa, Bhubaneswar and Lucknow besides the seven designated airports identified earlier. The health ministry also has established four more laboratories apart from the NIV-Pune for testing samples. These labs have been made functional at Alleppey, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Mumbai. Special Secretary in the Union Health ministry Sanjeeva Kumar chaired a video conference with health secretaries of states where the 21 identified airports are located along with the Airport Health Organization Officers (APHOs) to review their preparedness for prevention and management of novel coronavirus. He also interacted with health secretaries of the states, including those bordering Nepal (Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Sikkim), an official statement said. The immigration and other staff members at the airports have been sensitized and dedicated ambulances are placed at the airports. Deployment of medical and para-medical staff is also being done for round-the-clock service, it said. Meanwhile, India is placed at the 23rd place among "high-risk" countries where the disease can spread, according to a study based on the number of air travellers predicted to arrive in the countries from the worst affected cities in China. Researchers from the University of Southampton in the UK compiled a list of cities and countries they believe are at high risk from the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) The most "at risk" countries or regions worldwide are Thailand (1), Japan (2), and Hong Kong (3). The US is 6th on the list, Australia 10th and the UK 17th. Novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a large family of viruses that causes illnesses ranging from the common cold to acute respiratory syndromes. The virus, which has killed 132 people and affected at least 6,000 others in China, is a novel strain not seen before. The AYUSH Ministry has also issued an advisory recommending that homoeopathic and Unani medicine could be effective in the prevention of novel coronavirus (nCoV) infection. It also mentioned some Ayurvedic practices which can help recess the symptoms of the respiratory tract in possible coronavirus infected cases. "The Ministry of AYUSH is issuing the advisory as a preventive measure and not claiming to be a treatment advice for the nCoV infection. The Research Councils under Ministry of AYUSH are involved in various public health activities and provide lifestyle advocacies time to time for the general public," the ministry said in a statement.

Coronavirus outbreak: IndiGo, Air India suspend most China-bound flights; no case in India yet

Vinay Sharma, one of the four death-row convicts in the 2012 Nirbhaya Delhi gang-rape case, has filed a mercy petition with President Ram Nath Kovind, his lawyer AP Singh said on Wednesday.

A Delhi court had issued the death warrant to Akshay Singh Thakur, Mukesh Kumar, Pawan Gupta and Vinay Sharma, and ordered their hanging on February 1.

Earlier, Mukesh Kumar too had filed the mercy petition, which was rejected by the President.

He later challenged the rejection of his mercy petition which was also dismissed by the Supreme Court.

The case pertains to the gang-rape and brutalising of a 23-year-old paramedical student in a moving bus on the night of December 16, 2012, by six people including a juvenile in Delhi.

The woman had died at a Singapore hospital a few days later. One of the five adult accused, Ram Singh, had allegedly committed suicide in the Tihar Jail during the trial of the case.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Vinay Sharma, one of the four death-row convicts in the 2012 Nirbhaya Delhi gang-rape case, has filed a mercy petition with President Ram Nath Kovind, his lawyer AP Singh said on Wednesday.

Vinay Sharma, one of the four death-row convicts in the 2012 Nirbhaya Delhi gang-rape case, has filed a mercy petition with President Ram Nath Kovind, his lawyer AP Singh said on Wednesday. A Delhi court had issued the death warrant to Akshay Singh Thakur, Mukesh Kumar, Pawan Gupta and Vinay Sharma, and ordered their hanging on February 1. Earlier, Mukesh Kumar too had filed the mercy petition, which was rejected by the President. He later challenged the rejection of his mercy petition which was also dismissed by the Supreme Court. The case pertains to the gang-rape and brutalising of a 23-year-old paramedical student in a moving bus on the night of December 16, 2012, by six people including a juvenile in Delhi. The woman had died at a Singapore hospital a few days later. One of the five adult accused, Ram Singh, had allegedly committed suicide in the Tihar Jail during the trial of the case.

Another Nirbhaya convict files mercy plea with President

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan raked a controversy again by likening hospital nurses to "hoors" (fairies).&nbsp;

The incident was just a few days back when Khan was speaking at a fundraiser event on Tuesday for the Shaukat Khanum Cancer Hospital in Karachi, Pakistan.&nbsp;

As Khan recalled the event wherein he suffered a fatal fall a few years back, he said how he received an injection which not only relieved his pain but made him hallucinate.

He said the after-effects of the medicine was such that the nurses at the hospital looked like "hoors" to him.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-pakistans-minority-report-277143">WION Edit - Pakistan's minority report</a>

Pak prime minister's faux pas has ignited a flurry of critical comments with many taking to Twitter and slamming the PTI chief.&nbsp;

This is not the first time when Khan has come under the scanner for his comments.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-to-get-salary-hike-cabinet-to-hold-meeting-276911">Pakistan PM Imran Khan to get salary hike? Cabinet to hold meeting</a>

Earlier, Khan had blamed Hollywood and Bollywood for divorces in Pakistan.

Once while speaking on Kashmir, Khan claimed the support of 58 nations at the UN Human Rights Council when the UNHRC has just 47 members.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan raked a controversy again by likening hospital nurses to "hoors" (fairies). The incident was just a few days back when Khan was speaking at a fundraiser event on Tuesday for the Shaukat Khanum Cancer Hospital in Karachi, Pakistan.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan raked a controversy again by likening hospital nurses to "hoors" (fairies). The incident was just a few days back when Khan was speaking at a fundraiser event on Tuesday for the Shaukat Khanum Cancer Hospital in Karachi, Pakistan. As Khan recalled the event wherein he suffered a fatal fall a few years back, he said how he received an injection which not only relieved his pain but made him hallucinate. He said the after-effects of the medicine was such that the nurses at the hospital looked like "hoors" to him. Also read: WION Edit - Pakistan's minority report Pak prime minister's faux pas has ignited a flurry of critical comments with many taking to Twitter and slamming the PTI chief. This is not the first time when Khan has come under the scanner for his comments. Also read: Pakistan PM Imran Khan to get salary hike? Cabinet to hold meeting Earlier, Khan had blamed Hollywood and Bollywood for divorces in Pakistan. Once while speaking on Kashmir, Khan claimed the support of 58 nations at the UN Human Rights Council when the UNHRC has just 47 members.

Another faux pas? When Pakistan PM Imran Khan likened nurses to 'hoors'

Saudi Arabia's Aramco facilities in Jizan targeted, claim Yemen's Houthis

Yemen's Houthi movement claimed to have targeted Saudi Arabia's Aramco facilities in the port city of Jizan, reports said. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabias-aramco-facilities-in-jizan-targeted-claim-yemens-houthis-277382">Read more</a>

Several countries suspend flights to China as Coronavirus death toll climbs to 132

As several airlines halted and suspended flights to Wuhan, the death toll in the coronavirus in China rose to 132. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-countries-suspend-flights-to-china-as-coronavirus-death-toll-climbs-to-132-277368">Read more</a>

US charges Harvard and Boston academics for spying, links with China

The United States has been sceptical about China spying on its technological advances. <a href="wionews.com/world/us-charges-harvard-boston-academics-for-spying-links-with-china-277365">Read more</a>

United States bombing of Afghanistan hits 10-year high: US Air Force

American warplanes dropped more bombs on Afghanistan in 2019 than at any other time in at least a decade, according to the US Air Force, as Washington intensified attacks in the country amid withdrawal talks with the Taliban. <a href="wionews.com/world/united-states-bombing-of-afghanistan-hits-10-year-high-us-air-force-277324">Read more&nbsp;</a>

US House passes bill to support Tibet, warns sanctions on Chinese officials for interfering in Dalai Lama's succession

The US House of Representatives has passed a bill strengthening Washington's support for human rights and environmental protection in Tibet, and advocating sanctions against China if it interferes in the succession of Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-passes-bill-to-support-tibet-warns-sanctions-on-chinese-officials-for-interfering-in-dalai-lamas-succession-277317">Read more&nbsp;</a>

Earthquake of 7.7 magnitude strikes the Caribbean, tsunami warning issued 
 
A major earthquake of 7.7 magnitude struck the Caribbean region between Jamaica and Cuba, triggering a brief tsunami alert and sending hundreds of people pouring onto the streets of Havana on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earthquake-of-77-magnitude-strikes-the-caribbean-tsunami-warning-issued-277318">Read more</a>

Australian PM seeks greater federal powers to protect the nation from threatening bushfires 
 
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Wednesday he wants greater federal powers during natural disasters, as authorities warned bushfires ravaging the country for months were sweeping through a national park near the capital. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-pm-seeks-greater-federal-powers-to-protect-the-nation-from-threatening-bushfires-277314">Read more</a>

50 US troops diagnosed with traumatic brain injury after Iran strike: Pentagon

50 US service members have been diagnosed with traumatic brain injury after its base in Iraq was attacked by Iranian missiles earlier this month. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-us-troops-diagnosed-with-traumatic-brain-injury-after-iran-strike-pentagon-277276">Read more</a>&nbsp;

Australians scientists recreate coronavirus first time outside of China

A team of scientists in Australia have successfully replicated a lab-grown version of coronavirus the first to be recreated outside of China, is a significant breakthrough that could help combat the global spread of the illness. <a href="wionews.com/world/australians-scientists-recreate-coronavirus-first-time-outside-of-china-277231">Read more</a>

Palestinians infuriated as Trump unveils Middle-East peace plan with Jerusalem as Capital

US President Donald Trump's peace plan for West Asia delights Israel but fails to recognise Palestinian sovereign ambition. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-unveils-middle-east-peace-plan-draws-flak-from-palestinians-277189">Read more</a>

Saudi Arabia's Aramco facilities in Jizan targeted, claim Yemen's Houthis Yemen's Houthi movement claimed to have targeted Saudi Arabia's Aramco facilities in the port city of Jizan, reports said.

Saudi Arabia's Aramco facilities in Jizan targeted, claim Yemen's Houthis Yemen's Houthi movement claimed to have targeted Saudi Arabia's Aramco facilities in the port city of Jizan, reports said. Read more Several countries suspend flights to China as Coronavirus death toll climbs to 132 As several airlines halted and suspended flights to Wuhan, the death toll in the coronavirus in China rose to 132. Read more US charges Harvard and Boston academics for spying, links with China The United States has been sceptical about China spying on its technological advances. Read more United States bombing of Afghanistan hits 10-year high: US Air Force American warplanes dropped more bombs on Afghanistan in 2019 than at any other time in at least a decade, according to the US Air Force, as Washington intensified attacks in the country amid withdrawal talks with the Taliban. Read more US House passes bill to support Tibet, warns sanctions on Chinese officials for interfering in Dalai Lama's succession The US House of Representatives has passed a bill strengthening Washington's support for human rights and environmental protection in Tibet, and advocating sanctions against China if it interferes in the succession of Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama. Read more Earthquake of 7.7 magnitude strikes the Caribbean, tsunami warning issued A major earthquake of 7.7 magnitude struck the Caribbean region between Jamaica and Cuba, triggering a brief tsunami alert and sending hundreds of people pouring onto the streets of Havana on Tuesday. Read more Australian PM seeks greater federal powers to protect the nation from threatening bushfires Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Wednesday he wants greater federal powers during natural disasters, as authorities warned bushfires ravaging the country for months were sweeping through a national park near the capital. Read more 50 US troops diagnosed with traumatic brain injury after Iran strike: Pentagon 50 US service members have been diagnosed with traumatic brain injury after its base in Iraq was attacked by Iranian missiles earlier this month. Read more Australians scientists recreate coronavirus first time outside of China A team of scientists in Australia have successfully replicated a lab-grown version of coronavirus the first to be recreated outside of China, is a significant breakthrough that could help combat the global spread of the illness. Read more Palestinians infuriated as Trump unveils Middle-East peace plan with Jerusalem as Capital US President Donald Trump's peace plan for West Asia delights Israel but fails to recognise Palestinian sovereign ambition. Read more

Top 10 world news today: Saudi Aramco Jizan facilities targeted, Coronavirus death toll rises and more

In an electrifying quarter-final match of the Australian Open on Wednesday, Austrian&nbsp;tennis star Dominic Thiem knocked out world number 1 Rafael Nadal 7-6(3) 7-6(4) 4-6 7-6(6).&nbsp;

Thiem booked a spot in the semi-finals as former champion Nadal crashed out.&nbsp;

The 26-year-old will face Alex Zverev for a place in the final, a match-up scarcely imaginable at the start of the tournament.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/halep-destroys-kontaveit-to-reach-australian-open-semi-final-277182">Halep destroys Kontaveit to reach Australian Open semi final</a>

Thiem became only the second Austrian to reach the last four at Melbourne Park, following Thomas Muster's runs in 1989 and 1997.

(With inputs from Reuters)

In an electrifying quarter-final match of the Australian Open on Wednesday, Austrian tennis star Dominic Thiem knocked out world number 1 Rafael Nadal 7-6(3) 7-6(4) 4-6 7-6(6).

In an electrifying quarter-final match of the Australian Open on Wednesday, Austrian tennis star Dominic Thiem knocked out world number 1 Rafael Nadal 7-6(3) 7-6(4) 4-6 7-6(6). Thiem booked a spot in the semi-finals as former champion Nadal crashed out. The 26-year-old will face Alex Zverev for a place in the final, a match-up scarcely imaginable at the start of the tournament. Also read: Halep destroys Kontaveit to reach Australian Open semi final Thiem became only the second Austrian to reach the last four at Melbourne Park, following Thomas Muster's runs in 1989 and 1997. (With inputs from Reuters)

Australian Open 2020: Dominic Thiem beats Rafael Nadal to enter semi-finals

Tackling traffic! Four Indian cities among top 10 world's most congested

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