<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>

<p>In a raging speech on Thursday (February 2), Russian President Vladimir Putin promised victory over Ukraine. Putin was speaking at an event marking the 80th anniversary of the Red Army's victory over Nazi Germany in Stalingrad, now known as Volgograd (Stalingrad until 1961).&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his speech, the Russian president drew parallels between the Soviet Union's fight in World War II and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. He compared the fighting to Nazi Germany's invasion and hinted that Moscow could use nuclear weapons.</p>

<p>While invoking&nbsp;the war against Nazi Germany in 1941-1945, he claimed Russians were ready to go "until the end."</p>

<p>"Again and again we are forced to repel the aggression of the collective West," Putin said in the city on the Volga River formerly known as Stalingrad.</p>

<p>During his address, Putin said: "Unfortunately, we see that the ideology of Nazism in its modern form and manifestation again directly threatens the security of our country."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;The new game-changing weapon for Ukraine?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Referring to the powerful battle tanks proposed to send by Berlin, Putin said that Germany is "again" threatening Russia as it was during World War II. However, he added that Moscow can "answer" countries threatening it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Again and again, we have to repel the aggression of the collective West. It's incredible ... but it's a fact: we are again being threatened with German Leopard tanks with crosses on them."&nbsp;</p>

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<p><em>Russian President Vladimir&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;attends a wreath-laying ceremony during an event marking the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Stalingrad in World War Two, at the Mamayev Kurgan memorial complex in Volgograd, Russia February 2, 2023. Image: Reuters</em></p>

<p>The Russian president further said that those who draw European countries into a new war with Russia and expect to win, apparently don't understand that a modern war with Russia will be quite different for them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin said that Russia doesn't send tanks to borders but the nation has the means to respond. He added that Russia won't end with the use of "armoured vehicles" and the West must understand that.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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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. In a raging speech on Thursday (February 2), Russian President Vladimir Putin promised victory over Ukraine. Putin was speaking at an event marking the 80th anniversary of the Red Army's victory over Nazi Germany in Stalingrad, now known as Volgograd (Stalingrad until 1961). During his speech, the Russian president drew parallels between the Soviet Union's fight in World War II and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. He compared the fighting to Nazi Germany's invasion and hinted that Moscow could use nuclear weapons. While invoking the war against Nazi Germany in 1941-1945, he claimed Russians were ready to go "until the end." "Again and again we are forced to repel the aggression of the collective West," Putin said in the city on the Volga River formerly known as Stalingrad. During his address, Putin said: "Unfortunately, we see that the ideology of Nazism in its modern form and manifestation again directly threatens the security of our country." WATCH | The new game-changing weapon for Ukraine? × Referring to the powerful battle tanks proposed to send by Berlin, Putin said that Germany is "again" threatening Russia as it was during World War II. However, he added that Moscow can "answer" countries threatening it. He said, "Again and again, we have to repel the aggression of the collective West. It's incredible ... but it's a fact: we are again being threatened with German Leopard tanks with crosses on them." Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a wreath-laying ceremony during an event marking the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Stalingrad in World War Two, at the Mamayev Kurgan memorial complex in Volgograd, Russia February 2, 2023. Image: Reuters The Russian president further said that those who draw European countries into a new war with Russia and expect to win, apparently don't understand that a modern war with Russia will be quite different for them. Putin said that Russia doesn't send tanks to borders but the nation has the means to respond. He added that Russia won't end with the use of "armoured vehicles" and the West must understand that. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin compares Ukraine invasion to World War II, hints at use of nuclear weapons

<p>The latest arms package by the United States for war-torn Ukraine includes long-range rockets, the Pentagon said Friday (February 3). The new rocket-propelled precision bomb could nearly double Kyiv's strike range against Russian aggression. Apart from the US, France and Italy will send missile systems to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pat Ryder, who is a Pentagon spokesman, said that the new package includes the ground-launched small-diameter bombs (GLSDB). This munition has the ability to fly up to 150 kilometres. It will help Ukrainian troops to hit deep inside Russian territories and will threaten Moscow's positions and depots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This gives them a longer range capability ... that will enable them to conduct operations in defense of their country and to take back their sovereign territory," Ryder said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the French defence ministry said that France and Italy have agreed to deliver mobile surface-to-air missile systems to Ukraine. The systems, called MAMBA or SAMP, contain a vehicle-mounted, medium-range battery of missiles designed to offer protection from airborne threats such as missiles and aircraft.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>After months of disagreement over sending powerful tanks to help Ukraine, the West recently had a consensus. They agreed to send battle tanks to Kyiv, which came as a boost for the war-torn nation. However, President Volodymyr Zelensky continued to lobby the allies to supply long-range missiles and fighter jets to repulse Russian advances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday slammed Germany for approving the Leopard 1 battle tank exports to Ukraine. Drawing parallels between the Ukraine war and Soviet Union's fight in World War II, Putin compared the fighting to Nazi Germany's invasion. Putin hinted that Moscow could use nuclear weapons.&nbsp;<br />
<meta name="uuid" content="uuiddKAmdAvy3sbY" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine to fight in Bakhmut 'as long as we can'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In the latest development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that his forces will fight in Bakhmut as long as they can. Zelensky hosted a summit with EU chiefs and discussed a range of topics after urging the bloc to put more sanctions on Moscow.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In fact, Sweden said that the EU member states reached an agreement on price caps for Russian petroleum products, which came ahead of an international embargo set to go into force over the weekend.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky said, "No one will surrender Bakhmut. We will fight as long as we can. If weapon (deliveries) are accelerated -- namely long-range weapons -- we will not only not withdraw from Bakhmut, we will begin to de-occupy Donbas," the eastern Ukraine region."&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;<em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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The latest arms package by the United States for war-torn Ukraine includes long-range rockets, the Pentagon said Friday (February 3). The new rocket-propelled precision bomb could nearly double Kyiv's strike range against Russian aggression.

The latest arms package by the United States for war-torn Ukraine includes long-range rockets, the Pentagon said Friday (February 3). The new rocket-propelled precision bomb could nearly double Kyiv's strike range against Russian aggression. Apart from the US, France and Italy will send missile systems to Ukraine. Pat Ryder, who is a Pentagon spokesman, said that the new package includes the ground-launched small-diameter bombs (GLSDB). This munition has the ability to fly up to 150 kilometres. It will help Ukrainian troops to hit deep inside Russian territories and will threaten Moscow's positions and depots. "This gives them a longer range capability ... that will enable them to conduct operations in defense of their country and to take back their sovereign territory," Ryder said. Meanwhile, the French defence ministry said that France and Italy have agreed to deliver mobile surface-to-air missile systems to Ukraine. The systems, called MAMBA or SAMP, contain a vehicle-mounted, medium-range battery of missiles designed to offer protection from airborne threats such as missiles and aircraft. × After months of disagreement over sending powerful tanks to help Ukraine, the West recently had a consensus. They agreed to send battle tanks to Kyiv, which came as a boost for the war-torn nation. However, President Volodymyr Zelensky continued to lobby the allies to supply long-range missiles and fighter jets to repulse Russian advances. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday slammed Germany for approving the Leopard 1 battle tank exports to Ukraine. Drawing parallels between the Ukraine war and Soviet Union's fight in World War II, Putin compared the fighting to Nazi Germany's invasion. Putin hinted that Moscow could use nuclear weapons. Ukraine to fight in Bakhmut 'as long as we can' In the latest development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that his forces will fight in Bakhmut as long as they can. Zelensky hosted a summit with EU chiefs and discussed a range of topics after urging the bloc to put more sanctions on Moscow. In fact, Sweden said that the EU member states reached an agreement on price caps for Russian petroleum products, which came ahead of an international embargo set to go into force over the weekend. Zelensky said, "No one will surrender Bakhmut. We will fight as long as we can. If weapon (deliveries) are accelerated -- namely long-range weapons -- we will not only not withdraw from Bakhmut, we will begin to de-occupy Donbas," the eastern Ukraine region." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US arms package for Ukraine includes longer-range rockets that will double Kyiv's strike range

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<p>Ahmadi mosque in Pakistan's Karachi was allegedly desecrated by unknown attackers on Friday (February 3). A video of the incident, which is said to have happened in the Saddar area, has gone viral on social media forums. In the video, the attackers wearing helmets can be seen vandalising the mosque reportedly in the presence of police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports have stated that the group of miscreants were allegedly from the extremist group Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), but the exact date of the attack is not clear.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Rise News, a non-profit news organisation, tweeted that "Qadiani prayer place being attacked by extremists in Karachi, Hashoo Market Saddar".&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the second such incident in a month as the minarets of Ahmadi Jamaat Khata on Jamshed Road in Karachi were demolished earlier. In Pakistan, such hate incidents against the Ahmadiyya community are quite common.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>Watch this video here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">After Punjab, demolishing the minarets of Ahmadi places of worship started in Karachi. Today, a group of people demolished the minarets of an Ahmadi place of worship in Saddar. Two weeks ago, another Ahmadi worship place's minarets were also demolished in Martin Quarters. <a href="https://t.co/X2EnUAtnVV">pic.twitter.com/X2EnUAtnVV</a></p>
— Zia Ur Rehman (@zalmayzia) <a href="https://twitter.com/zalmayzia/status/1621204807007469571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The South Asian nation has become a country where the people of this community are subjected to extensive persecution including hate speech and violence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The extent of human rights violations and child abuse against the community has been highlighted in in-depth coverage by The Geneva Daily, which is an online publication.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the report, the Pakistani Ahmadiyya community of four million is subjected to extensive torture, religious persecution by self-declared Islamic leaders, and discrimination by institutions and the general public.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-islamist-leader-says-pak-govt-should-demand-money-from-the-world-with-atom-bomb-in-hand-558344">Islamist leader tells Pak: Demand money from nations with ‘atom bomb’ in hand</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) recently<strong>&nbsp;</strong>strongly condemned the desecration of an Ahmadiyya worship site in Punjab province's Wazirabad district and called for the protection of such places of religious minorities in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"HRCP strongly condemns the desecration of a historical Ahmadiyya site of worship in Wazirabad, allegedly by the district administration on 10 January," the rights group said in a statement posted on its Twitter handle.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Ahmadi mosque in Pakistan's Karachi was allegedly desecrated by unknown attackers on Friday (February 3). A video of the incident, which is said to have happened in the Saddar area, has gone viral on social media forums.

Ahmadi mosque in Pakistan's Karachi was allegedly desecrated by unknown attackers on Friday (February 3). A video of the incident, which is said to have happened in the Saddar area, has gone viral on social media forums. In the video, the attackers wearing helmets can be seen vandalising the mosque reportedly in the presence of police. Media reports have stated that the group of miscreants were allegedly from the extremist group Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), but the exact date of the attack is not clear. The Rise News, a non-profit news organisation, tweeted that "Qadiani prayer place being attacked by extremists in Karachi, Hashoo Market Saddar". This is the second such incident in a month as the minarets of Ahmadi Jamaat Khata on Jamshed Road in Karachi were demolished earlier. In Pakistan, such hate incidents against the Ahmadiyya community are quite common. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Watch this video here: After Punjab, demolishing the minarets of Ahmadi places of worship started in Karachi. Today, a group of people demolished the minarets of an Ahmadi place of worship in Saddar. Two weeks ago, another Ahmadi worship place's minarets were also demolished in Martin Quarters. pic.twitter.com/X2EnUAtnVV — Zia Ur Rehman (@zalmayzia) February 2, 2023 × The South Asian nation has become a country where the people of this community are subjected to extensive persecution including hate speech and violence. The extent of human rights violations and child abuse against the community has been highlighted in in-depth coverage by The Geneva Daily, which is an online publication. As per the report, the Pakistani Ahmadiyya community of four million is subjected to extensive torture, religious persecution by self-declared Islamic leaders, and discrimination by institutions and the general public. WATCH | Islamist leader tells Pak: Demand money from nations with ‘atom bomb’ in hand The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) recently strongly condemned the desecration of an Ahmadiyya worship site in Punjab province's Wazirabad district and called for the protection of such places of religious minorities in the country. "HRCP strongly condemns the desecration of a historical Ahmadiyya site of worship in Wazirabad, allegedly by the district administration on 10 January," the rights group said in a statement posted on its Twitter handle. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | Ahmadi mosque in Pakistan's Karachi desecrated by unknown attackers

<p>The United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken's weekend visit to Beijing has been put off after the discovery of an alleged Chinese spy balloon in US airspace, news agency AFP reported on Friday (February 3) quoting a US official.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official said that the visit has been "postponed" which was expected to start on Friday after a Chinese spy balloon was tracked flying across the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A senior State Department official told reporters that officials have&nbsp;determined that the visit would not be productive at this time under the current circumstances. The official also said that diplomatic channels will remain open and Blinken is planning&nbsp;to visit at the earliest opportunity when "conditions allow".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The suspected spying object caused panic among US officials and concerns were also raised, with officials discussing the matter with their Chinese counterparts through diplomatic channels. A US official said, "We have communicated to them the seriousness with which we take this issue."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-confirms-offer-of-two-year-moratorium-to-sri-lanka-on-loan-repayments-558581">China confirms offer of two-year moratorium to Sri Lanka on loan repayments</a>&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, China responded late on Friday and expressed regrets over the "unintended entry of the airship into US airspace". China said it is a civilian airship used for research, mainly meteorological, purposes and also vowed to maintain communications with America to properly handle the unexpected situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The balloon has been spotted in Billings, Montana, approximately 6,000 miles from China but the Chinese claimed that the balloon "deviated far from its planned course" because of strong winds and a lack of steering ability.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>A spokesperson for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement:&nbsp;"The airship is from China. It is a civilian airship used for research, mainly meteorological, purposes. The Chinese side regrets the unintended entry of the airship into US airspace due to force majeure."&nbsp;</p>

<p>US fighter jets were scrambled after the balloon was spotted but the military leaders asked US President Joe Biden to not shoot it&nbsp;down. Biden accepted the advice after fears were raised over the possibility that its debris could pose a safety threat.</p>

<p>According to Reuters, one of the officials told reporters on condition of anonymity that piloted US military aircraft were scrambled by the US to take "custody" of the balloon when it entered US airspace and also observed it.&nbsp;</p>

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The United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken's weekend visit to Beijing has been put off after the discovery of an alleged Chinese spy balloon in US airspace, news agency AFP reported on Friday (February 3) quoting a US official.

The United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken's weekend visit to Beijing has been put off after the discovery of an alleged Chinese spy balloon in US airspace, news agency AFP reported on Friday (February 3) quoting a US official. The official said that the visit has been "postponed" which was expected to start on Friday after a Chinese spy balloon was tracked flying across the US. A senior State Department official told reporters that officials have determined that the visit would not be productive at this time under the current circumstances. The official also said that diplomatic channels will remain open and Blinken is planning to visit at the earliest opportunity when "conditions allow". The suspected spying object caused panic among US officials and concerns were also raised, with officials discussing the matter with their Chinese counterparts through diplomatic channels. A US official said, "We have communicated to them the seriousness with which we take this issue." ALSO READ | China confirms offer of two-year moratorium to Sri Lanka on loan repayments However, China responded late on Friday and expressed regrets over the "unintended entry of the airship into US airspace". China said it is a civilian airship used for research, mainly meteorological, purposes and also vowed to maintain communications with America to properly handle the unexpected situation. The balloon has been spotted in Billings, Montana, approximately 6,000 miles from China but the Chinese claimed that the balloon "deviated far from its planned course" because of strong winds and a lack of steering ability. Watch this report: × A spokesperson for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement: "The airship is from China. It is a civilian airship used for research, mainly meteorological, purposes. The Chinese side regrets the unintended entry of the airship into US airspace due to force majeure." US fighter jets were scrambled after the balloon was spotted but the military leaders asked US President Joe Biden to not shoot it down. Biden accepted the advice after fears were raised over the possibility that its debris could pose a safety threat. According to Reuters, one of the officials told reporters on condition of anonymity that piloted US military aircraft were scrambled by the US to take "custody" of the balloon when it entered US airspace and also observed it. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Antony Blinken’s trip to Beijing ‘postponed’ over alleged Chinese spy balloon in US airspace

<p>Chinese foreign ministry has responded to the suspected spy balloon, which has been flying over the United States for a couple of days, saying that the balloon was a civilian "airship" used for research, mainly meteorological purposes. Beijing also expressed regret over the unintended entry of the airship into US airspace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement late on Friday, the Chinese foreign ministry also said that it will continue to maintain communications with the United States to properly handle the unexpected situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A spokesperson for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement:&nbsp;"The airship is from China. It is a civilian airship used for research, mainly meteorological, purposes. The Chinese side regrets the unintended entry of the airship into US airspace due to force majeure."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-confirms-offer-of-two-year-moratorium-to-sri-lanka-on-loan-repayments-558581">China confirms offer of two-year moratorium to Sri Lanka on loan repayments</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Officials in the US raised concerns over the flying balloon as the incident happened just days ahead of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to Beijing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agencies reported that fighter jets were also mobilised but military leaders asked US President Joe Biden to not shoot the balloon&nbsp;down as&nbsp;the debris could pose a safety threat. US officials said that Biden accepted the advice, but authorities continued to monitor it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As noted by Reuters, one of the officials told reporters on condition of anonymity that piloted US military aircraft were sent by the US to take "custody" of the balloon when it entered US airspace and also observed it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Amid simmering tensions between the US and China, the incident also highlights the possibilities and lengths to which Beijing and Washington have been willing to go to spy on each other.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, some experts and media reports even pointed out the feasibility of using the so-called balloon for possible spying, as there are advanced methods for that.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pentagon spokesperson Brigadier General Patrick Ryder told reporters: "The balloon is currently travelling at an altitude well above commercial air traffic and does not present a military or physical threat to people on the ground."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Chinese foreign ministry has responded to the suspected spy balloon, which has been flying over the United States for a couple of days, saying that the balloon was a civilian "airship" used for research, mainly meteorological purposes.

Chinese foreign ministry has responded to the suspected spy balloon, which has been flying over the United States for a couple of days, saying that the balloon was a civilian "airship" used for research, mainly meteorological purposes. Beijing also expressed regret over the unintended entry of the airship into US airspace. In a statement late on Friday, the Chinese foreign ministry also said that it will continue to maintain communications with the United States to properly handle the unexpected situation. A spokesperson for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement: "The airship is from China. It is a civilian airship used for research, mainly meteorological, purposes. The Chinese side regrets the unintended entry of the airship into US airspace due to force majeure." ALSO READ | China confirms offer of two-year moratorium to Sri Lanka on loan repayments Officials in the US raised concerns over the flying balloon as the incident happened just days ahead of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's planned trip to Beijing. News agencies reported that fighter jets were also mobilised but military leaders asked US President Joe Biden to not shoot the balloon down as the debris could pose a safety threat. US officials said that Biden accepted the advice, but authorities continued to monitor it. As noted by Reuters, one of the officials told reporters on condition of anonymity that piloted US military aircraft were sent by the US to take "custody" of the balloon when it entered US airspace and also observed it. Watch this report: × Amid simmering tensions between the US and China, the incident also highlights the possibilities and lengths to which Beijing and Washington have been willing to go to spy on each other. However, some experts and media reports even pointed out the feasibility of using the so-called balloon for possible spying, as there are advanced methods for that. Pentagon spokesperson Brigadier General Patrick Ryder told reporters: "The balloon is currently travelling at an altitude well above commercial air traffic and does not present a military or physical threat to people on the ground." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Beijing says balloon in US airspace is its civilian ‘airship’ for research, regrets airspace breach

<p>Mourners and protesters faced off in Sydney on Thursday at the funeral service for Australian Cardinal George Pell, a former top Vatican official who was acquitted in 2020 of sexual abuse accusations.</p>

<p>Australian police officials said they had dropped a court bid to block a protest after organisers agreed to change an initial demonstration route and gather in a road adjacent to St Mary's Cathedral, the funeral venue. Hundreds took part in the protest.</p>

<p>Pell's body has lain in state since he died at the age of 81 in a Rome hospital last month from heart complications after a hip surgery.</p>

<p>Thousands attended the funeral, including former prime ministers Tony Abbott and John Howard, and federal opposition leader Peter Dutton. Hundreds more watched on big screens erected outside the cathedral.</p>

<p>"He's the greatest Catholic Australia has ever produced, and one of our country's greatest sons," Abbott said during a eulogy.</p>

<p>"George Pell was the greatest man I've ever known."</p>

<p>In a park opposite the cathedral, groups of protesters, many from the LGBT community and some holding signs reading "Pell Burn In Hell", heard speeches against the cardinal and the Catholic Church.</p>

<p>"(We're here to) just show solidarity with the victims and the survivors of what's happened through the Catholic Church, but particularly George Pell," Layne Elbourne, a musician, told Reuters.</p>

<p>Small numbers of mourners held up rosary beads in response to protesters' chants, though there were no signs of physical clashes between the two groups.</p>

<p>Tensions had flared on Wednesday after some inside the church property were seen removing colourful ribbons tied by protesters along the fence of the cathedral, television footage showed.</p>

<p>The ribbons symbolised the pain inflicted on child sexual abuse victims, the protesters said.</p>

<p>Australia's High Court in 2020 quashed the convictions of Pell, a leading Catholic conservative, for sexually assaulting two choir boys in the 1990s, allowing him to walk free after 13 months in prison. Pell lived in Rome after the acquittal and had several meetings with Pope Francis.</p>

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Mourners and protesters faced off in Sydney on Thursday at the funeral service for Australian Cardinal George Pell, a former top Vatican official who was acquitted in 2020 of sexual abuse accusations.

Mourners and protesters faced off in Sydney on Thursday at the funeral service for Australian Cardinal George Pell, a former top Vatican official who was acquitted in 2020 of sexual abuse accusations. Australian police officials said they had dropped a court bid to block a protest after organisers agreed to change an initial demonstration route and gather in a road adjacent to St Mary's Cathedral, the funeral venue. Hundreds took part in the protest. Pell's body has lain in state since he died at the age of 81 in a Rome hospital last month from heart complications after a hip surgery. Thousands attended the funeral, including former prime ministers Tony Abbott and John Howard, and federal opposition leader Peter Dutton. Hundreds more watched on big screens erected outside the cathedral. "He's the greatest Catholic Australia has ever produced, and one of our country's greatest sons," Abbott said during a eulogy. "George Pell was the greatest man I've ever known." In a park opposite the cathedral, groups of protesters, many from the LGBT community and some holding signs reading "Pell Burn In Hell", heard speeches against the cardinal and the Catholic Church. "(We're here to) just show solidarity with the victims and the survivors of what's happened through the Catholic Church, but particularly George Pell," Layne Elbourne, a musician, told Reuters. Small numbers of mourners held up rosary beads in response to protesters' chants, though there were no signs of physical clashes between the two groups. Tensions had flared on Wednesday after some inside the church property were seen removing colourful ribbons tied by protesters along the fence of the cathedral, television footage showed. The ribbons symbolised the pain inflicted on child sexual abuse victims, the protesters said. Australia's High Court in 2020 quashed the convictions of Pell, a leading Catholic conservative, for sexually assaulting two choir boys in the 1990s, allowing him to walk free after 13 months in prison. Pell lived in Rome after the acquittal and had several meetings with Pope Francis. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australian Cardinal George Pell's funeral sparks protests as mourners gather

<p>A Tesla financial filing submitted on Tuesday (January 31) disclosed that the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) requested documents related to the company's autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) features. The company stated that the impact will be on business, cash flows and financial position if the government decides to pursue an enforcement action.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The document mentioned that it "has received requests from the DOJ for documents related to Tesla’s autopilot and FSD features". The document from the justice department appeared to be an intensified regulatory scrutiny.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tesla mentioned the recent updates on current litigation actions against and probes into the company in the latest quarterly report to investors and the Securities and Exchange Commission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agency Reuters reported that in October, Tesla is facing a criminal probe over claims that the company's electric vehicles could drive themselves. The news agency also mentioned that the American Justice Department had initiated the probe in 2021 after multiple crashes involving autopilot. The latest report suggests that the justice department might have asked to provide more information for the investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In its SEC filing, as quoted by Gizmodo, the automaker noted, "To our knowledge, no government agency in any ongoing investigation has concluded that any wrongdoing occurred. We cannot predict the outcome or impact of any ongoing matters."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The automaker said that they cannot predict the outcome or impact of any ongoing matters, but in case the government decided to pursue an enforcement action, there is a possibility of a material adverse impact on the company's business, results of operation, prospects, cash flows and financial position.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At a recent Tesla conference call, the Chief Executive Officer, Elon Musk, said that the focus is on innovations that will both improve road safety and position the company as a technology leader. He also stated that "full self-driving is obviously getting better very rapidly."&nbsp;</p>

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A Tesla financial filing submitted on Tuesday (January 31) disclosed that the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) requested documents related to the company's autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) features.

A Tesla financial filing submitted on Tuesday (January 31) disclosed that the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) requested documents related to the company's autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) features. The company stated that the impact will be on business, cash flows and financial position if the government decides to pursue an enforcement action. The document mentioned that it "has received requests from the DOJ for documents related to Tesla’s autopilot and FSD features". The document from the justice department appeared to be an intensified regulatory scrutiny. Tesla mentioned the recent updates on current litigation actions against and probes into the company in the latest quarterly report to investors and the Securities and Exchange Commission. News agency Reuters reported that in October, Tesla is facing a criminal probe over claims that the company's electric vehicles could drive themselves. The news agency also mentioned that the American Justice Department had initiated the probe in 2021 after multiple crashes involving autopilot. The latest report suggests that the justice department might have asked to provide more information for the investigation. In its SEC filing, as quoted by Gizmodo, the automaker noted, "To our knowledge, no government agency in any ongoing investigation has concluded that any wrongdoing occurred. We cannot predict the outcome or impact of any ongoing matters." The automaker said that they cannot predict the outcome or impact of any ongoing matters, but in case the government decided to pursue an enforcement action, there is a possibility of a material adverse impact on the company's business, results of operation, prospects, cash flows and financial position. At a recent Tesla conference call, the Chief Executive Officer, Elon Musk, said that the focus is on innovations that will both improve road safety and position the company as a technology leader. He also stated that "full self-driving is obviously getting better very rapidly." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US Justice Department seeks documents of Tesla's autopilot and Full Self-Driving features

<p>The Brazilian Navy said on Wednesday that it will sink a decommissioned aircraft carrier that has been floating offshore for three months since Turkey refused it entry to be scrapped there.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Brazil plans to abandon its biggest warship despite calls to not do it because of the environmental hazard.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The carrier São Paulo is from the 1960s and has been floating abandoned in the South Atlantic Ocean for five months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is the largest Brazilian warship in existence, weighing around 34,000 tonnes with a length of 870 feet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The carrier was towed by a tug to Europe, however, it did not get past the Gibraltar straits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the Brazilian Navy said that they did not allow the ship to dock at Brazilian ports. The Navy also said that the ship is taking on water and is at risk of sinking.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Navy said it had no choice but to scuttle the ship in water about 5,000 metres deep 350 kilometres off-shore within Brazil’s exclusive economic zone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Environment Minister Marina Silva requested not to sink the carrier. The Navy statement said that the site is far from environmental protection areas and free of undersea communication cables.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It said, "Given its deteriorating floating condition and the inevitability of uncontrolled sinking, there is no other option but to jettison the hull and sink it in a planned way".&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In another twist to the sorry fate of the old aircraft carrier SAO PAULO A12, the Brazilian Navy on 20 Jan seized the ship from Turkish owners saying it was in danger of sinking. Ship is prevented from docking in Brasil as an environmental hazard <a href="https://t.co/KLD8d5MRlp">https://t.co/KLD8d5MRlp</a> <a href="https://t.co/VKm1gDk7EL">pic.twitter.com/VKm1gDk7EL</a></p>
— Chris Cavas (@CavasShips) <a href="https://twitter.com/CavasShips/status/1617383531583541248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>What's the controversy?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Brazilian newspaper Folha de São Paulo reported quoting military sources that the navy's next move may be to sink it with explosives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Jim Puckett, the executive of the anti-waste non-profit Basel Action Network, told Time that the sinking the ship would be "gross negligence".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Puckett told Time: "We're talking about a ship containing both hazardous materials and valuable materials — it's supposed to be brought into the territory of Brazil and managed in an environmentally sound way. You can't just sink it."&nbsp;</p>

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The Brazilian Navy said on Wednesday that it will sink a decommissioned aircraft carrier that has been floating offshore for three months since Turkey refused it entry to be scrapped there.

The Brazilian Navy said on Wednesday that it will sink a decommissioned aircraft carrier that has been floating offshore for three months since Turkey refused it entry to be scrapped there. Brazil plans to abandon its biggest warship despite calls to not do it because of the environmental hazard. The carrier São Paulo is from the 1960s and has been floating abandoned in the South Atlantic Ocean for five months. It is the largest Brazilian warship in existence, weighing around 34,000 tonnes with a length of 870 feet. The carrier was towed by a tug to Europe, however, it did not get past the Gibraltar straits. In a statement, the Brazilian Navy said that they did not allow the ship to dock at Brazilian ports. The Navy also said that the ship is taking on water and is at risk of sinking. The Navy said it had no choice but to scuttle the ship in water about 5,000 metres deep 350 kilometres off-shore within Brazil’s exclusive economic zone. The Environment Minister Marina Silva requested not to sink the carrier. The Navy statement said that the site is far from environmental protection areas and free of undersea communication cables. It said, "Given its deteriorating floating condition and the inevitability of uncontrolled sinking, there is no other option but to jettison the hull and sink it in a planned way". In another twist to the sorry fate of the old aircraft carrier SAO PAULO A12, the Brazilian Navy on 20 Jan seized the ship from Turkish owners saying it was in danger of sinking. Ship is prevented from docking in Brasil as an environmental hazard https://t.co/KLD8d5MRlp pic.twitter.com/VKm1gDk7EL — Chris Cavas (@CavasShips) January 23, 2023 × What's the controversy? Brazilian newspaper Folha de São Paulo reported quoting military sources that the navy's next move may be to sink it with explosives. But Jim Puckett, the executive of the anti-waste non-profit Basel Action Network, told Time that the sinking the ship would be "gross negligence". Puckett told Time: "We're talking about a ship containing both hazardous materials and valuable materials — it's supposed to be brought into the territory of Brazil and managed in an environmentally sound way. You can't just sink it." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Brazilian Navy to sink 'ghost' aircraft carrier. Why is it controversial?

<p>Ukraine claimed on Thursday (February 2) that an overnight Russian missile strike&nbsp;destroyed an apartment building and damaged nine others. The Ukrainian authorities said that at least three people were killed and around 20 were wounded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The authorities also said that rescue work is underway in a city in eastern Ukraine. According to the police force, the apartments in the city of Kramatorsk were hit by an Iskander-K tactical missile at 9.45pm (local time).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, police said, "Ten apartment buildings were damaged, one partially collapsed. Search and rescue work, which continued all night, is still underway."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Ukrainian Defence Minister: Russia planning 24 February offensive&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/austria-expels-four-russian-diplomats-asks-them-to-leave-within-one-week-558277">Austria expels four Russian diplomats, asks them to leave within one week</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Reports have noted that a husband and wife and a 61-year-old pensioner were among those who lost their lives. The daughter of the pensioner was still believed to be missing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the rocket strike, President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on Telegram: "Peaceful people died and are under the rubble. This is the daily reality of life in our country."&nbsp;</p>

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<p><em>Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen attend EU summit, as&nbsp;Russia's attack on Ukraine continues, in Kyiv, Ukraine February 2, 2023. Image: Reuters</em></p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky calls for fresh sanctions&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, ahead of the war anniversary, Zelensky asked the European Union to slam Russia with fresh sanctions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Russia announced the invasion last year, the United States, EU and other allies imposed multiple economic sanctions on Moscow, with an aim to isolate it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Belgium's diamond trade with Russia is among a few business ties that are untouched.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Zelensky said, "We can see that the pace of Europe's sanctions has slightly slowed down while the terrorist state, on the contrary, is increasing its pace of adapting to sanctions. It's worth catching up and fixing (this). We believe that we can do it."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was speaking during a news conference with the head of the EU's executive, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, on a visit to Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

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Ukraine claimed on Thursday (February 2) that an overnight Russian missile strike destroyed an apartment building and damaged nine others. The Ukrainian authorities said that at least three people were killed and around 20 were wounded.

Ukraine claimed on Thursday (February 2) that an overnight Russian missile strike destroyed an apartment building and damaged nine others. The Ukrainian authorities said that at least three people were killed and around 20 were wounded. The authorities also said that rescue work is underway in a city in eastern Ukraine. According to the police force, the apartments in the city of Kramatorsk were hit by an Iskander-K tactical missile at 9.45pm (local time). In a statement, police said, "Ten apartment buildings were damaged, one partially collapsed. Search and rescue work, which continued all night, is still underway." WATCH | Ukrainian Defence Minister: Russia planning 24 February offensive × ALSO READ | Austria expels four Russian diplomats, asks them to leave within one week Reports have noted that a husband and wife and a 61-year-old pensioner were among those who lost their lives. The daughter of the pensioner was still believed to be missing. After the rocket strike, President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on Telegram: "Peaceful people died and are under the rubble. This is the daily reality of life in our country." Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen attend EU summit, as Russia's attack on Ukraine continues, in Kyiv, Ukraine February 2, 2023. Image: Reuters Zelensky calls for fresh sanctions Meanwhile, ahead of the war anniversary, Zelensky asked the European Union to slam Russia with fresh sanctions. After Russia announced the invasion last year, the United States, EU and other allies imposed multiple economic sanctions on Moscow, with an aim to isolate it. However, Belgium's diamond trade with Russia is among a few business ties that are untouched. But Zelensky said, "We can see that the pace of Europe's sanctions has slightly slowed down while the terrorist state, on the contrary, is increasing its pace of adapting to sanctions. It's worth catching up and fixing (this). We believe that we can do it." He was speaking during a news conference with the head of the EU's executive, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, on a visit to Kyiv. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian missile strike on Ukrainian residential building kills three; Kyiv calls for more sanctions on Moscow

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<p>Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2023-24 on Wednesday (February 1). The government has described the budget as the first of "Amrit Kaal", which pave the way for the nation to grow and achieve Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to make India a developed country in the next 25 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The budget proposed changes to income tax slabs, a steep hike in capital investment, and also a mention of the healthcare sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the opening remarks of her speech, Sitharaman hailed the country-wide vaccination drive against coronavirus (COVID-19) in unparallel scale and speed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The finance minister praised India's rising global profile. She noted that several accomplishments, like unique world-class digital public infrastructure for example Aadhar, Co-Win &amp; UPI, are responsible for such significant growth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The finance minister announced that dedicated&nbsp;<strong>multidisciplinary courses</strong>&nbsp;for medical devices will be supported in existing institutions to ensure the availability of skilled manpower for futuristic medical technologies, high-end manufacturing and research.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added that under health education and skilling, 157 new&nbsp;<strong>nursing colleges&nbsp;</strong>will be established in co-location with existing medical colleges established since 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The finance minister added&nbsp;that facilities in selective&nbsp;<strong>ICMR labs</strong>&nbsp;will be made available for research by public and private medical college faculty and private sector R&amp;D teams for encouraging collaborative research and innovation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added that a new programme for research and innovation in pharmaceuticals will be taken up through Centres of Excellence.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Allocation of budget:&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Sitharaman announced that the health sector has been allocated Rs 89,155 crore in the Union Budget 2023-24, which is a hike of around 13 per cent over Rs 79,145 crore allocated in 2022-23.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The budget allocation for the AYUSH ministry has been increased from Rs 2,845.75 crore to Rs 3,647.50 crore, which is a 28 per cent increase.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Out of Rs 89,155 crore, Rs 86,175 crore has been allocated to the Department of Health and Family Welfare, while Rs 2,980 crore to the Department of Health Research.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A new programme for research &amp; innovation in pharmaceuticals will be taken up through Centres of Excellence.<br />
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Dedicated multi-disciplinary courses for medical devices will be supported in the existing institutions: FM <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NSitharaman</a> Ji<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmritKaalBudget?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmritKaalBudget</a> <a href="https://t.co/tjtJZgejpq">pic.twitter.com/tjtJZgejpq</a></p>
— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/mansukhmandviya/status/1620668341005488130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India's rising global profile is because of several accomplishments like Unique world-class digital public infrastructure, e.g., Aadhar, Co-WIN &amp; UPI.<br />
<br />
COVID vaccination drive conducted in unparallel scale &amp; speed: FM <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NSitharaman</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AmritKaalBudget?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AmritKaalBudget</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UnionBudget2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UnionBudget2023</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/XSXZslttFf">pic.twitter.com/XSXZslttFf</a></p>
— Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA/status/1620688928360759296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Mission to eliminate Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)</strong></h2>

<p>Special mention was given to the mission's launch to eliminate sickle cell anaemia by 2047. The finance minister said that it will entail awareness creation, universal screening of 7 crore people in the age group 0 to 40 years in affected tribal areas and counselling through collaborative efforts.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetic condition and is widespread among the tribal population in India and in other vulnerable populations. The Indian Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said that the tribals aged below 40 will be provided cards mentioning their sickle cell anaemia status. He said they would get pre-marital counselling about the risk of their child getting the disease if they marry another affected person.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the presentation of the budget, Mandaviya said that the government will take up the eradication of sickle cell anaemia in a mission mode. He also noted that the authorities will conduct massive screening in affected tribal areas for early detection of cases.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Going forward, the government will also issue cards after screening to tribal persons below 40 years affected by the disease mentioning their sickle cell anaemia status and also provide pre-marital counselling to make the patients aware of the detrimental effects of the disease if they marry another sickle cell anaemia patient and give birth," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2023-24 on Wednesday (February 1). The government has described the budget as the first of "Amrit Kaal", which pave the way for the nation to grow and achieve Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to make India a developed country in the next 25 years.

Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2023-24 on Wednesday (February 1). The government has described the budget as the first of "Amrit Kaal", which pave the way for the nation to grow and achieve Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to make India a developed country in the next 25 years. The budget proposed changes to income tax slabs, a steep hike in capital investment, and also a mention of the healthcare sector. In the opening remarks of her speech, Sitharaman hailed the country-wide vaccination drive against coronavirus (COVID-19) in unparallel scale and speed. The finance minister praised India's rising global profile. She noted that several accomplishments, like unique world-class digital public infrastructure for example Aadhar, Co-Win & UPI, are responsible for such significant growth. The finance minister announced that dedicated multidisciplinary courses for medical devices will be supported in existing institutions to ensure the availability of skilled manpower for futuristic medical technologies, high-end manufacturing and research. She added that under health education and skilling, 157 new nursing colleges will be established in co-location with existing medical colleges established since 2014. The finance minister added that facilities in selective ICMR labs will be made available for research by public and private medical college faculty and private sector R&D teams for encouraging collaborative research and innovation. She added that a new programme for research and innovation in pharmaceuticals will be taken up through Centres of Excellence. Allocation of budget: Sitharaman announced that the health sector has been allocated Rs 89,155 crore in the Union Budget 2023-24, which is a hike of around 13 per cent over Rs 79,145 crore allocated in 2022-23. The budget allocation for the AYUSH ministry has been increased from Rs 2,845.75 crore to Rs 3,647.50 crore, which is a 28 per cent increase. Out of Rs 89,155 crore, Rs 86,175 crore has been allocated to the Department of Health and Family Welfare, while Rs 2,980 crore to the Department of Health Research. A new programme for research & innovation in pharmaceuticals will be taken up through Centres of Excellence. Dedicated multi-disciplinary courses for medical devices will be supported in the existing institutions: FM @NSitharaman Ji#AmritKaalBudget pic.twitter.com/tjtJZgejpq — Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) February 1, 2023 × India's rising global profile is because of several accomplishments like Unique world-class digital public infrastructure, e.g., Aadhar, Co-WIN & UPI. COVID vaccination drive conducted in unparallel scale & speed: FM @NSitharaman#AmritKaalBudget #UnionBudget2023 @PMOIndia pic.twitter.com/XSXZslttFf — Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) February 1, 2023 × Mission to eliminate Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) Special mention was given to the mission's launch to eliminate sickle cell anaemia by 2047. The finance minister said that it will entail awareness creation, universal screening of 7 crore people in the age group 0 to 40 years in affected tribal areas and counselling through collaborative efforts. What is Sickle Cell Disease (SCD)? Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a genetic condition and is widespread among the tribal population in India and in other vulnerable populations. The Indian Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said that the tribals aged below 40 will be provided cards mentioning their sickle cell anaemia status. He said they would get pre-marital counselling about the risk of their child getting the disease if they marry another affected person. After the presentation of the budget, Mandaviya said that the government will take up the eradication of sickle cell anaemia in a mission mode. He also noted that the authorities will conduct massive screening in affected tribal areas for early detection of cases. "Going forward, the government will also issue cards after screening to tribal persons below 40 years affected by the disease mentioning their sickle cell anaemia status and also provide pre-marital counselling to make the patients aware of the detrimental effects of the disease if they marry another sickle cell anaemia patient and give birth," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Union Budget 2023-24: Here's what healthcare sector got from the budget

<p>The European Parliament on Thursday waived the immunity from prosecution of two lawmakers accused in a bribery scandal linked to Qatar and Morocco. They are currently being probed by Belgian investigators, who requested to question them.&nbsp;Voting took place in the European Parliament to revoke the prosecution protection of Belgian MEP Marc Tarabella and Italian MEP Andrea Cozzolino.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the voting by a show of hands, the proposal to lift the immunity was approved by the assembly. Tarabella gave himself his assent in the chamber. He told reporters that he would cooperate with the Belgian authorities in the investigation and claimed that he was innocent.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/austria-expels-four-russian-diplomats-asks-them-to-leave-within-one-week-558277">Austria expels four Russian diplomats, asks them to leave within one week</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Tarabella said, "I repeat that I am happy that the lifting of my parliamentary immunity took place. I just voted it. Secondly, I recall that I am innocent in this case."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is primarily to the judicial authorities that I will deliver information relating to the questions they will ask me. Thank you for understanding me. Thank you for doing your job," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The Belgian authorities have four people in custody as part of their probe and they asked questions about Tarabella and Cozzolino.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Those in Belgian custody include Greek member of the European Parliament Eva Kaili, Italian former member of the European Parliament (MEP) Pier Antonio Panzeri, and two more.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They face charges of corruption, and money laundering concerning alleged payments from Qatar and Morocco.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With&nbsp;inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The European Parliament on Thursday waived the immunity from prosecution of two lawmakers accused in a bribery scandal linked to Qatar and Morocco. They are currently being probed by Belgian investigators, who requested to question them.

The European Parliament on Thursday waived the immunity from prosecution of two lawmakers accused in a bribery scandal linked to Qatar and Morocco. They are currently being probed by Belgian investigators, who requested to question them. Voting took place in the European Parliament to revoke the prosecution protection of Belgian MEP Marc Tarabella and Italian MEP Andrea Cozzolino. In the voting by a show of hands, the proposal to lift the immunity was approved by the assembly. Tarabella gave himself his assent in the chamber. He told reporters that he would cooperate with the Belgian authorities in the investigation and claimed that he was innocent. ALSO READ | Austria expels four Russian diplomats, asks them to leave within one week Tarabella said, "I repeat that I am happy that the lifting of my parliamentary immunity took place. I just voted it. Secondly, I recall that I am innocent in this case." "It is primarily to the judicial authorities that I will deliver information relating to the questions they will ask me. Thank you for understanding me. Thank you for doing your job," he added. × The Belgian authorities have four people in custody as part of their probe and they asked questions about Tarabella and Cozzolino. Those in Belgian custody include Greek member of the European Parliament Eva Kaili, Italian former member of the European Parliament (MEP) Pier Antonio Panzeri, and two more. They face charges of corruption, and money laundering concerning alleged payments from Qatar and Morocco. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

EU Parliament waives immunity from prosecution of two lawmakers in bribery scam probe

<p>Hardline Islamist leader Saad Rizvi has reportedly asked the Pakistani government to go to other countries with Quran in one hand and a suitcase of "nuclear bomb" in the other one and then demand money, instead of begging for aid from the world. Rizvi heads the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) party, which was previously banned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The comments were reportedly made earlier in January when Rizvi was talking about the issue of the burning of the Quran in Sweden and the Netherlands. He said that the Shehbaz Sharif-led government's response on the issue was weak.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/wikipedia-may-get-blocked-in-pakistan-over-blasphemy-report-558295">Wikipedia may get blocked in Pakistan over 'blasphemy': Report</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In a video that has gone viral, Rizvi said: "They are sending the prime minister (Shehbaz Sharif), his entire cabinet and chief of army staff to other countries to beg for economic aid… I ask why are they doing this? They say&nbsp;the Pakistani economy is in danger."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Instead, I advise them to take Quran in one hand and the atom bomb suitcase in the other, and take the cabinet to Sweden, and say that we have come for the security of the Quran. If this entire universe does not fall under your feet, then you can change my name," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In case you don't get, this Mullah isn't being sarcastic. He believes what he said.<br />
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He is Saad Rizvi, Head TLP- 4th most popular party in Pak that fetched millions of votes.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanCrisis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanCrisis</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanEconomicCrisis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanEconomicCrisis</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FailedStatePakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FailedStatePakistan</a><a href="https://t.co/XDEuncnQ4T">pic.twitter.com/XDEuncnQ4T</a></p>
— Akhil Pillai (@akhilpillai0589) <a href="https://twitter.com/akhilpillai0589/status/1620662502467211268?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The video of Rizvi's statement has&nbsp;emerged at a time when reports claimed that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has rejected Pakistan's revised Circular Debt Management Plan (CDMP).&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agency The Associated Press reported on January 27 that about 12,000 Islamists from the TLP party rallied in Lahore, the capital of the eastern Punjab province, to protest against incidents related to the burning of the Quran in the two European countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his speech to the demonstrators, Saad Rizvi, the head of the TLP, asked the government to lodge a strong protest with Sweden and the Netherlands so that such incidents don't happen again.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, there's no clarity on whether or not Rizvi made the "nuclear bomb" comments at that mentioned rally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Controversy erupted earlier this month when Rasmus Paludan, who is a far-right activist from Denmark, burned the Quran while staging a protest outside the Turkish Embassy in Stockholm. &nbsp;</p>

<p>A few days later, Edwin Wagensveld, who is a far-right leader of the Pegida movement in the Netherlands, tore pages out of a copy of the Quran near the Dutch Parliament.&nbsp;</p>

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Hardline Islamist leader Saad Rizvi has reportedly asked the Pakistani government to go to other countries with Quran in one hand and a suitcase of "nuclear bomb" in the other one and then demand money, instead of begging for aid from the world.

Hardline Islamist leader Saad Rizvi has reportedly asked the Pakistani government to go to other countries with Quran in one hand and a suitcase of "nuclear bomb" in the other one and then demand money, instead of begging for aid from the world. Rizvi heads the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) party, which was previously banned. The comments were reportedly made earlier in January when Rizvi was talking about the issue of the burning of the Quran in Sweden and the Netherlands. He said that the Shehbaz Sharif-led government's response on the issue was weak. ALSO READ | Wikipedia may get blocked in Pakistan over 'blasphemy': Report In a video that has gone viral, Rizvi said: "They are sending the prime minister (Shehbaz Sharif), his entire cabinet and chief of army staff to other countries to beg for economic aid… I ask why are they doing this? They say the Pakistani economy is in danger." "Instead, I advise them to take Quran in one hand and the atom bomb suitcase in the other, and take the cabinet to Sweden, and say that we have come for the security of the Quran. If this entire universe does not fall under your feet, then you can change my name," he added. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. In case you don't get, this Mullah isn't being sarcastic. He believes what he said. He is Saad Rizvi, Head TLP- 4th most popular party in Pak that fetched millions of votes.#PakistanCrisis #PakistanEconomicCrisis #FailedStatePakistanpic.twitter.com/XDEuncnQ4T — Akhil Pillai (@akhilpillai0589) February 1, 2023 × The video of Rizvi's statement has emerged at a time when reports claimed that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has rejected Pakistan's revised Circular Debt Management Plan (CDMP). News agency The Associated Press reported on January 27 that about 12,000 Islamists from the TLP party rallied in Lahore, the capital of the eastern Punjab province, to protest against incidents related to the burning of the Quran in the two European countries. In his speech to the demonstrators, Saad Rizvi, the head of the TLP, asked the government to lodge a strong protest with Sweden and the Netherlands so that such incidents don't happen again. However, there's no clarity on whether or not Rizvi made the "nuclear bomb" comments at that mentioned rally. Controversy erupted earlier this month when Rasmus Paludan, who is a far-right activist from Denmark, burned the Quran while staging a protest outside the Turkish Embassy in Stockholm. A few days later, Edwin Wagensveld, who is a far-right leader of the Pegida movement in the Netherlands, tore pages out of a copy of the Quran near the Dutch Parliament. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | Islamist leader tells Pak: Demand money from nations with ‘atom bomb’ in hand

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