Harvey Weinstein, a former Hollywood model, has been found guilty of three counts of sexual assault including rape. Weinstein serving a 23-year sentence after conviction in New York.

Former Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein was found guilty of rape and sexual assault

<p>Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif confirmed on Tuesday that all the 33 terrorist suspects, who had captured a Counter-Terrorism Depart­ment (CTD) centre in Bannu last weekend, were killed in an operation conducted by the Pakistan Army, local media outlet Dawn reported. The hostages were freed with some receiving minor injuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the report, all the 33 members of the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) were under arrest at the centre. They snatched weapons on Sunday and overpowered the jailors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the defence minister, the Special Service Group (SSG), which is a unit of the army, carried out the operation. He also said that two of the commandos were martyred, and over a dozen were injured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SSG stormed the centre reportedly when hostage takers had differences over the handling of the captives. Witnesses reported blasts and heavy firing after SSG entered the compound.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif told parliament: "All the hostages have been freed. Ten to 15 men from the SSG (special forces) including an officer were wounded while two were martyred."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This operation was initiated on December 20 at 12:30pm (local time) by the Special Service Group and all terrorists were killed," Asif added. The minister stated that the entire CTD compound was cleared by 2:30pm (local time).&nbsp;</p>

<p>He explained how the siege unfolded, and said, "There were 33 terrorists from different groups who had been arrested and jailed in the counter-terrorism department compound. One of them hit his guard on the head with a brick while going to the toilet and snatched his weapon."&nbsp;</p>

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Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif confirmed on Tuesday that all the 33 terrorist suspects, who had captured a Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) centre in Bannu last weekend, were killed in an operation conducted by the Pakistan Army, local media outlet Dawn reported.

Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif confirmed on Tuesday that all the 33 terrorist suspects, who had captured a Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) centre in Bannu last weekend, were killed in an operation conducted by the Pakistan Army, local media outlet Dawn reported. The hostages were freed with some receiving minor injuries. As per the report, all the 33 members of the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) were under arrest at the centre. They snatched weapons on Sunday and overpowered the jailors. As per the defence minister, the Special Service Group (SSG), which is a unit of the army, carried out the operation. He also said that two of the commandos were martyred, and over a dozen were injured. SSG stormed the centre reportedly when hostage takers had differences over the handling of the captives. Witnesses reported blasts and heavy firing after SSG entered the compound. Watch this report: × Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif told parliament: "All the hostages have been freed. Ten to 15 men from the SSG (special forces) including an officer were wounded while two were martyred." "This operation was initiated on December 20 at 12:30pm (local time) by the Special Service Group and all terrorists were killed," Asif added. The minister stated that the entire CTD compound was cleared by 2:30pm (local time). He explained how the siege unfolded, and said, "There were 33 terrorists from different groups who had been arrested and jailed in the counter-terrorism department compound. One of them hit his guard on the head with a brick while going to the toilet and snatched his weapon." 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.

Pakistan hostage situation ends with all 33 militants dead; two commandos also lose their lives

<p>Scientists have discovered that whales can actually help mitigate climate change, which is referred to as long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A recent study from the University of Otago and the University of Alaska Southeast said that whales may be the largest living carbon sink in the pelagic zone of the open ocean.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study focuses on carbon sequestration, which is a process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide. The process is aimed at reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Scientists have said that the most prevalent greenhouse gas, carbon dioxide (CO2), must be stored and captured if global warming is to be stopped. Carbon sequestration majorly talks about planting trees or restoring wetlands.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But while mentioning whales, scientists said that because of their vast size, they can naturally absorb a lot of CO2. It means none of that carbon will leak into the atmosphere when they die and sink to the ocean floor.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>"Their size and longevity allow whales to exert strong effects on the carbon cycle by storing carbon more effectively than small animals, ingesting extreme quantities of prey, and producing large volumes of waste products," the authors said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Considering that baleen whales have some of the longest migrations on the planet, they potentially influence nutrient dynamics and carbon cycling over ocean-basin scales," they added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the study, whales will consume up to 4 per cent of their body weight each day. Krill and photosynthetic plankton make up a large portion of their diets. This equates to about 3.6 tonnes of food each day for a blue whale. Whales can aid in the process of krill and plankton photosynthesis, which absorbs carbon.&nbsp;</p>

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Scientists have discovered that whales can actually help mitigate climate change, which is referred to as long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. A recent study from the University of Otago and the University of Alaska Southeast said that whales may be the largest living carbon sink in the pelagic zone of the open ocean.

Scientists have discovered that whales can actually help mitigate climate change, which is referred to as long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. A recent study from the University of Otago and the University of Alaska Southeast said that whales may be the largest living carbon sink in the pelagic zone of the open ocean. The study focuses on carbon sequestration, which is a process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide. The process is aimed at reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Scientists have said that the most prevalent greenhouse gas, carbon dioxide (CO2), must be stored and captured if global warming is to be stopped. Carbon sequestration majorly talks about planting trees or restoring wetlands. But while mentioning whales, scientists said that because of their vast size, they can naturally absorb a lot of CO2. It means none of that carbon will leak into the atmosphere when they die and sink to the ocean floor. Watch this report: × "Their size and longevity allow whales to exert strong effects on the carbon cycle by storing carbon more effectively than small animals, ingesting extreme quantities of prey, and producing large volumes of waste products," the authors said. "Considering that baleen whales have some of the longest migrations on the planet, they potentially influence nutrient dynamics and carbon cycling over ocean-basin scales," they added. According to the study, whales will consume up to 4 per cent of their body weight each day. Krill and photosynthetic plankton make up a large portion of their diets. This equates to about 3.6 tonnes of food each day for a blue whale. Whales can aid in the process of krill and plankton photosynthesis, which absorbs carbon. 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.

Whales can help fight the climate change, scientists say

<p>China, where the first known case of coronavirus was reported in late 2019, has been witnessing an onslaught of new positive cases of the deadly virus. Beijing has started to relax its strict "Zero-Covid" policy as the authorities continue their struggle to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But amid the chaos, a report by Bloomberg noted that people are seeking immunity against Covid and hence, the demand for lemons has surged.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that business is suddenly booming for China's lemon farmers, which indicates that people are apparently stockpiling.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It means the inclination of people is towards natural remedies to fight the fresh coronavirus wave of positive cases.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by the report, one farmer identified as Wen, said, "The market is very much on fire".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wen, who only revealed his surname, grows lemons on about 53 hectares in Anyue, a county in the southwestern province of Sichuan. This particular region produces around 70 per cent of the fruit in China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The farmer told the media outlet that his sales have increased to 20 to 30 tons a day over the past week. The rise is significant as compared to just five or six tons previously.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another farmer in Anyue, whose name is Liu Yanjing told Bloomberg that "lemon prices have doubled in the past four or five days".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Lemons are high in vitamin C and their consumption provides fibre and other beneficial plant compounds, which are responsible for several health benefits from weight loss to improving the immune system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that the surge in demand for lemons can be seen in cities like Beijing and Shanghai. People in regions, where Covid cases are spreading fast, rushing to buy foods rich in vitamin C.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, no report&nbsp;can prove that lemons can cure Covid. Scientists, experts and doctors have advocated the usage of vaccines and taking precautionary measures to avoid infections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to local media, sales of other fruits including oranges and pears are also rising apart from lemons. The trends were visible on Dingdong Maicai, which is an e-commerce site selling fresh produce.&nbsp;</p>

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China, where the first known case of coronavirus was reported in late 2019, has been witnessing an onslaught of new positive cases of the deadly virus. Beijing has started to relax its strict "Zero-Covid" policy as the authorities continue their struggle to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

China, where the first known case of coronavirus was reported in late 2019, has been witnessing an onslaught of new positive cases of the deadly virus. Beijing has started to relax its strict "Zero-Covid" policy as the authorities continue their struggle to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus. But amid the chaos, a report by Bloomberg noted that people are seeking immunity against Covid and hence, the demand for lemons has surged. The report mentioned that business is suddenly booming for China's lemon farmers, which indicates that people are apparently stockpiling. It means the inclination of people is towards natural remedies to fight the fresh coronavirus wave of positive cases. As quoted by the report, one farmer identified as Wen, said, "The market is very much on fire". Wen, who only revealed his surname, grows lemons on about 53 hectares in Anyue, a county in the southwestern province of Sichuan. This particular region produces around 70 per cent of the fruit in China. The farmer told the media outlet that his sales have increased to 20 to 30 tons a day over the past week. The rise is significant as compared to just five or six tons previously. Another farmer in Anyue, whose name is Liu Yanjing told Bloomberg that "lemon prices have doubled in the past four or five days". Watch this report: × Lemons are high in vitamin C and their consumption provides fibre and other beneficial plant compounds, which are responsible for several health benefits from weight loss to improving the immune system. The report mentioned that the surge in demand for lemons can be seen in cities like Beijing and Shanghai. People in regions, where Covid cases are spreading fast, rushing to buy foods rich in vitamin C. Notably, no report can prove that lemons can cure Covid. Scientists, experts and doctors have advocated the usage of vaccines and taking precautionary measures to avoid infections. According to local media, sales of other fruits including oranges and pears are also rising apart from lemons. The trends were visible on Dingdong Maicai, which is an e-commerce site selling fresh produce. 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.

COVID-19 in China: Demand for a particular fruit rises as people seek natural remedies to fight the virus

<p>The Kremlin announced on Tuesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet senior defence officials on Wednesday to set the nation's military objectives for the year 2023, the news agency AFP reported. Putin will also assess the conflict in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Kremlin said, "On December 21, Russian President Vladimir Putin will hold an expanded meeting of the Collegium of the Russian Defence Ministry... the work of Russia's Armed Forces in 2022 will be summed up and tasks for next year will be set."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin also admitted that the situation in Russian-occupied Ukraine is "complicated". Putin's rare admission came during a video message addressed to Russia's security services.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "The situation in the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics, in the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions is extremely difficult." He even urged the security agencies to identify "traitors, spies and diversionists".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In September, Putin announced the annexation of four regions in the east and south of Ukraine. It happened after referendums were held there.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US calls India an ‘ally’. Is it a good thing or bad?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>On Tuesday, Putin also gave awards to the Russia-installed leaders of annexed Ukrainian territories. The Russian authorities didn't provide a specific reason why the leaders of the Donetsk region Denis Pushilin and Luhansk region Leonid Pasechnik were awarded First class order "For Merit to the Fatherland".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yevgeny Balitsky and Vladimir Saldo, the leaders of the Zaporizhzhia region and Kherson region respectively received the Third class order "For Merit to the Fatherland".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from that, he also gave the award to the members of the military taking part in the ongoing Ukraine war, what Russia calls a "special military operation" in its neighbouring nation. Renowned scientists and "hero-mothers" - mothers of many children were also awarded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in a telephone conversation, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier urged Chinese leader Xi Jinping to use his influence on Russia and ask Putin to end the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Steinmeier's office said in a statement: "The president underlined the common interest of China and Europe in an end to the war (in Ukraine) as well as respect for Ukrainian sovereignty and the required withdrawal of Russian troops."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He asked Xi to use his influence on Russia and (Russian President Vladimir) Putin to this end," it added.&nbsp;</p>

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The Kremlin announced on Tuesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet senior defence officials on Wednesday to set the nation's military objectives for the year 2023, the news agency AFP reported.

The Kremlin announced on Tuesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet senior defence officials on Wednesday to set the nation's military objectives for the year 2023, the news agency AFP reported. Putin will also assess the conflict in Ukraine. The Kremlin said, "On December 21, Russian President Vladimir Putin will hold an expanded meeting of the Collegium of the Russian Defence Ministry... the work of Russia's Armed Forces in 2022 will be summed up and tasks for next year will be set." Putin also admitted that the situation in Russian-occupied Ukraine is "complicated". Putin's rare admission came during a video message addressed to Russia's security services. He said, "The situation in the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics, in the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions is extremely difficult." He even urged the security agencies to identify "traitors, spies and diversionists". In September, Putin announced the annexation of four regions in the east and south of Ukraine. It happened after referendums were held there. WATCH | US calls India an ‘ally’. Is it a good thing or bad? × On Tuesday, Putin also gave awards to the Russia-installed leaders of annexed Ukrainian territories. The Russian authorities didn't provide a specific reason why the leaders of the Donetsk region Denis Pushilin and Luhansk region Leonid Pasechnik were awarded First class order "For Merit to the Fatherland". Yevgeny Balitsky and Vladimir Saldo, the leaders of the Zaporizhzhia region and Kherson region respectively received the Third class order "For Merit to the Fatherland". Apart from that, he also gave the award to the members of the military taking part in the ongoing Ukraine war, what Russia calls a "special military operation" in its neighbouring nation. Renowned scientists and "hero-mothers" - mothers of many children were also awarded. Meanwhile, in a telephone conversation, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier urged Chinese leader Xi Jinping to use his influence on Russia and ask Putin to end the war. Steinmeier's office said in a statement: "The president underlined the common interest of China and Europe in an end to the war (in Ukraine) as well as respect for Ukrainian sovereignty and the required withdrawal of Russian troops." "He asked Xi to use his influence on Russia and (Russian President Vladimir) Putin to this end," it added. 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 to assess Ukraine conflict; will set Russia's military aims for next year

<p>Twitter has officially launched "Blue for Business". According to the micro-blogging site, it is a new way for businesses and their affiliates to verify and distinguish themselves on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a release, Twitter said that its rollout will provide opportunities for businesses to further enhance and distinguish businesses on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the social media giant, the subscribers of Twitter Blue for Business can link a company with any number of their affiliated individuals, businesses and brands to their account.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After doing it, affiliated accounts will get a small badge of their parent company's profile picture next to their blue or gold checkmark. Although, the tech firm did mention that all the features are not available on all platforms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Twitter said that this kind of network will make it possible for businesses to create networks within their own organisations on the platform.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Today, we’re rolling out Twitter Blue for Business, a new program that lets businesses distinguish their brands and key employees on Twitter. These accounts will show a square company badge next to their display names. <a href="https://t.co/d6sNPqFNnY">pic.twitter.com/d6sNPqFNnY</a></p>
— Twitter Business (@TwitterBusiness) <a href="https://twitter.com/TwitterBusiness/status/1604956203401912321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Businesses can affiliate their leadership, brands, support handles, employees or teams. Journalists, sports team players or movie characters can all be affiliated. You name it, we got it," the post read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The company has also stated that each affiliate will be verified and officially linked to its parent handle based on a list provided by the parent business. New criteria, pricing or process will be shared by the tech giant after the update.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Madrid's festive lights dazzle visitors ahead of Christmas&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>"This is an incredible moment for businesses to further incorporate their affiliated individuals, businesses, and brands into the DNA of Twitter. In the future, we plan to layer more value into the offering to help businesses and their affiliates get the most from Twitter," it further said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Twitter also said that "Blue for Business" has been launched with a select group of businesses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Next year, the company will roll this out to more businesses who wish to subscribe.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Twitter has officially launched "Blue for Business". According to the micro-blogging site, it is a new way for businesses and their affiliates to verify and distinguish themselves on Twitter.

Twitter has officially launched "Blue for Business". According to the micro-blogging site, it is a new way for businesses and their affiliates to verify and distinguish themselves on Twitter. In a release, Twitter said that its rollout will provide opportunities for businesses to further enhance and distinguish businesses on Twitter. As per the social media giant, the subscribers of Twitter Blue for Business can link a company with any number of their affiliated individuals, businesses and brands to their account. After doing it, affiliated accounts will get a small badge of their parent company's profile picture next to their blue or gold checkmark. Although, the tech firm did mention that all the features are not available on all platforms. Twitter said that this kind of network will make it possible for businesses to create networks within their own organisations on the platform. Today, we’re rolling out Twitter Blue for Business, a new program that lets businesses distinguish their brands and key employees on Twitter. These accounts will show a square company badge next to their display names. pic.twitter.com/d6sNPqFNnY — Twitter Business (@TwitterBusiness) December 19, 2022 × "Businesses can affiliate their leadership, brands, support handles, employees or teams. Journalists, sports team players or movie characters can all be affiliated. You name it, we got it," the post read. The company has also stated that each affiliate will be verified and officially linked to its parent handle based on a list provided by the parent business. New criteria, pricing or process will be shared by the tech giant after the update. WATCH | Madrid's festive lights dazzle visitors ahead of Christmas × "This is an incredible moment for businesses to further incorporate their affiliated individuals, businesses, and brands into the DNA of Twitter. In the future, we plan to layer more value into the offering to help businesses and their affiliates get the most from Twitter," it further said. Twitter also said that "Blue for Business" has been launched with a select group of businesses. Next year, the company will roll this out to more businesses who wish to subscribe. 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.

Twitter rolls out 'Blue For Business' to create a new network for businesses

<p>Earth's magnetosphere was damaged on Monday by a powerful shockwave that entered the planet. According to a report by Space Weather, the mysterious shockwave could lead to a geomagnetic storm as the barrage of plasma smashed into Earth's magnetic field.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the unversed, the magnetosphere is our planet's protective shield which is created by the magnetic field that protects Earth from harmful radiation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts have noted that the magnetosphere is a region of space surrounding an astronomical object in which charged particles are affected by that object's magnetic field.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-era-of-space-exploration-indian-space-industry-witnessed-major-milestones-in-2022-544634">New era of space exploration: Indian space industry witnessed major milestones in 2022</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As per the reports, the exact origin of‌ the shockwave is not known. But the astronomers did mention that it could be a coronal mass ejection (CME), which is an ejection of energetic and highly magnetised, superheated gas released from the sun.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per reports, astronomers have also warned that such a powerful shockwave could damage the solar winds flow through, eventually disrupting the communications and electrical equipment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The shockwave could have been launched from a region on the sun's surface, known as AR3165. After its launch, the CMEs can travel at speeds in the millions of miles per hour. With their high speed, they carry charged particles from the solar wind to form a wavefront that can trigger geomagnetic storms.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sun activity from flaring is low but a coronal hole in the sun’s northern hemisphere is the source of a high-speed solar wind impacting Earth’s magnetic field. By December 21, we might see a minor geomagnetic storm. Read more at: <a href="https://t.co/gNEIyUWJpK">https://t.co/gNEIyUWJpK</a><br />
<br />
📸 SDO <a href="https://t.co/1bHP5RphYf">pic.twitter.com/1bHP5RphYf</a></p>
— EarthSky (@earthskyscience) <a href="https://twitter.com/earthskyscience/status/1604854576288600065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Doctors may have saved a baby's heart using umbilical stem cells&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>A geomagnetic storm is a temporary disturbance of the Earth's magnetosphere, which is caused by a solar wind shock wave or cloud of the magnetic field that interacts with the Earth's magnetic field.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These storms cause the atmosphere to warm and atmospheric density at our low deployment altitudes to increase.&nbsp;</p>

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Earth's magnetosphere was damaged on Monday by a powerful shockwave that entered the planet. According to a report by Space Weather, the mysterious shockwave could lead to a geomagnetic storm as the barrage of plasma smashed into Earth's magnetic field.

Earth's magnetosphere was damaged on Monday by a powerful shockwave that entered the planet. According to a report by Space Weather, the mysterious shockwave could lead to a geomagnetic storm as the barrage of plasma smashed into Earth's magnetic field. For the unversed, the magnetosphere is our planet's protective shield which is created by the magnetic field that protects Earth from harmful radiation. Experts have noted that the magnetosphere is a region of space surrounding an astronomical object in which charged particles are affected by that object's magnetic field. ALSO READ | New era of space exploration: Indian space industry witnessed major milestones in 2022 As per the reports, the exact origin of‌ the shockwave is not known. But the astronomers did mention that it could be a coronal mass ejection (CME), which is an ejection of energetic and highly magnetised, superheated gas released from the sun. As per reports, astronomers have also warned that such a powerful shockwave could damage the solar winds flow through, eventually disrupting the communications and electrical equipment. The shockwave could have been launched from a region on the sun's surface, known as AR3165. After its launch, the CMEs can travel at speeds in the millions of miles per hour. With their high speed, they carry charged particles from the solar wind to form a wavefront that can trigger geomagnetic storms. Sun activity from flaring is low but a coronal hole in the sun’s northern hemisphere is the source of a high-speed solar wind impacting Earth’s magnetic field. By December 21, we might see a minor geomagnetic storm. Read more at: https://t.co/gNEIyUWJpK 📸 SDO pic.twitter.com/1bHP5RphYf — EarthSky (@earthskyscience) December 19, 2022 × WATCH | Doctors may have saved a baby's heart using umbilical stem cells × A geomagnetic storm is a temporary disturbance of the Earth's magnetosphere, which is caused by a solar wind shock wave or cloud of the magnetic field that interacts with the Earth's magnetic field. These storms cause the atmosphere to warm and atmospheric density at our low deployment altitudes to increase. 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.

A powerful shockwave smashed into Earth and cracked magnetosphere

<p>Mood Indigo, colloquially known as MoodI is Asia’s largest college cultural festival which attracts a footfall of more than 1,46,000 students across 4000+ colleges all over India. Mood Indigo is the signature cultural festival of the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, spanning over more than 240 events over 4 days. This December marks the 52nd edition of MI and will be taking place from 27-30th December in a full-fledged offline manner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>MoodI caters to students from over 4000 colleges across the country through magnificent competitions and provides exposure to an unending list of international artists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This year’s concerts feature Vishal-Shekhar as the Popular Nite Headliners and American Authors as the International Nite Headliners. The band is going to bring prodigious amounts of energy and gaiety with their stupendous hits like “I’m Born To Run”, and of course the anthemic hit single which gave us all goosebumps -“Best Day Of My Life..”. The opening performance is by Antariksh. The band is a premier Hindi-Rock band committed to creating fresh, innovative songs and presenting them in a thematic and powerful manner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Humor Fest Headliners include comedy sensations such as Samay Raina and Anubhav Singh Bassi. Their delivery, personality, anecdotal content and apt punch lines are sure to make everyone laugh their hearts out!&nbsp;</p>

<p>Competitions at Mood Indigo have been the stage for college contingents from across the country. Competitions cover all the genres of art: &nbsp;Dramatics, lifestyle, literary arts, speaking arts, fine arts, visual arts, music, dance and journalism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The basic ideology behind conducting Mood Indigo is to unite people from all over the globe, providing opportunities to enthusiasts, and making these 4 days the best days of the year for the entire audience. Mood Indigo is not just a fest but an emotion, an expression of liveliness. MI is a platform for celebrating the art forms and a stage for igniting a fire inside one's heart. The best part about Mood Indigo is that it is completely free for all college students!&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp; &nbsp;<br />
To learn more about this year’s Mood Indigo, log on to my.moodi.org or scan the QR Code Below!&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer-&nbsp;Above mentioned article is a feature content, This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of IDPL, and IDPL claims no responsibility whatsoever.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

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Mood Indigo, colloquially known as MoodI is Asia’s largest college cultural festival which attracts a footfall of more than 1,46,000 students across 4000+ colleges all over India.

Mood Indigo, colloquially known as MoodI is Asia’s largest college cultural festival which attracts a footfall of more than 1,46,000 students across 4000+ colleges all over India. Mood Indigo is the signature cultural festival of the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, spanning over more than 240 events over 4 days. This December marks the 52nd edition of MI and will be taking place from 27-30th December in a full-fledged offline manner. MoodI caters to students from over 4000 colleges across the country through magnificent competitions and provides exposure to an unending list of international artists. This year’s concerts feature Vishal-Shekhar as the Popular Nite Headliners and American Authors as the International Nite Headliners. The band is going to bring prodigious amounts of energy and gaiety with their stupendous hits like “I’m Born To Run”, and of course the anthemic hit single which gave us all goosebumps -“Best Day Of My Life..”. The opening performance is by Antariksh. The band is a premier Hindi-Rock band committed to creating fresh, innovative songs and presenting them in a thematic and powerful manner. The Humor Fest Headliners include comedy sensations such as Samay Raina and Anubhav Singh Bassi. Their delivery, personality, anecdotal content and apt punch lines are sure to make everyone laugh their hearts out! Competitions at Mood Indigo have been the stage for college contingents from across the country. Competitions cover all the genres of art: Dramatics, lifestyle, literary arts, speaking arts, fine arts, visual arts, music, dance and journalism. The basic ideology behind conducting Mood Indigo is to unite people from all over the globe, providing opportunities to enthusiasts, and making these 4 days the best days of the year for the entire audience. Mood Indigo is not just a fest but an emotion, an expression of liveliness. MI is a platform for celebrating the art forms and a stage for igniting a fire inside one's heart. The best part about Mood Indigo is that it is completely free for all college students! To learn more about this year’s Mood Indigo, log on to my.moodi.org or scan the QR Code Below! Disclaimer- Above mentioned article is a feature content, This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of IDPL, and IDPL claims no responsibility whatsoever. 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.

Mood Indigo! IIT Bombay is all set for its four-day signature cultural festival

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<p>Experts have urged the government and other authorities in the United States to raise investment in lab monkey breeding programmes and stop importing non-human primates for laboratory use.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Concerns were raised when documents from the American Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that deadly pathogenic agents, zoonotic bacteria and viruses entered the country with imported monkeys.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The monkeys were imported from Asia between 2018 and 2021, The Guardian reported after seeing the documents, which were obtained by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also, a case study by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science revealed that there have been six cases of Burkholderia pseudomallei identified in primates imported from Cambodia to the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the report, US-listed Charles River and Inotiv are among the largest suppliers of lab monkeys to the pharmaceutical industry recently issued a warning to investors that they expect disruption to US imports from Cambodia, a report by the Financial Times stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dr Lisa Jones-Engel, who is a Peta senior science adviser, told The Guardian, "There is no indication that the CDC or research industries have been transparent with the public about these diseased monkeys."&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by Financial Times, Matthew Bailey, the president at the National Association for Biomedical Research, said, "If companies and academic researchers can't get the non-human primate [monkeys] research models they need — then the work stops. You can say goodbye to new vaccines and drugs."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bailey added that "it is of crucial importance to public health and national security."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report further mentioned a case study of Melioidosis, which is an uncommon but potentially fatal disease in humans caused by the bacterium B pseudomallei.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The bacteria are native to southeast Asia and are brought on by contact with the pathogen through soil or water. According to the CDC, B pseudomallei is a "Tier 1 select agent" with the potential to be used in bioterrorism and has a death rate of up to 50 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a research paper, which was published last week, details of a case are mentioned when one of the macaques in the US was diagnosed with B pseudomallei. The primate entered the US from Cambodia by air with 359 other macaques and was in quarantine when the diagnosis was done in Texas in January 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In America, the imported non-human primates, or NHPs, are held in CDC-mandated quarantine for 31 days while undergoing testing for infectious diseases.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid concerns, the macaque was euthanized and other monkeys shipped with the infected monkey "appeared healthy at the end of the quarantine period and were released from CDC-mandated quarantine", the report mentioned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report titled "Melioidosis in a Cynomolgus Macaque Imported to the United States from Cambodia", stated that the global movement of humans and animals can introduce&nbsp;<em>B pseudomallei</em>&nbsp;into nonendemic regions of the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by Guardian, Jones-Engel said: "Monkeys imported from Asia can harbour the Burkholderia pathogen for months, shedding the bacteria via their feces, urine, blood and saliva into the environment. The CDC knows the danger to humans and has failed to warn the public."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study suggested that in order to prevent the introduction of infectious agents to the US, CDC requires newly imported primates to be "quarantined for at least 31 d, during which time their health is closely monitored".&nbsp;</p>

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Experts have urged the government and other authorities in the United States to raise investment in lab monkey breeding programmes and stop importing non-human primates for laboratory use.

Experts have urged the government and other authorities in the United States to raise investment in lab monkey breeding programmes and stop importing non-human primates for laboratory use. Concerns were raised when documents from the American Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that deadly pathogenic agents, zoonotic bacteria and viruses entered the country with imported monkeys. The monkeys were imported from Asia between 2018 and 2021, The Guardian reported after seeing the documents, which were obtained by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta). Also, a case study by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science revealed that there have been six cases of Burkholderia pseudomallei identified in primates imported from Cambodia to the US. As per the report, US-listed Charles River and Inotiv are among the largest suppliers of lab monkeys to the pharmaceutical industry recently issued a warning to investors that they expect disruption to US imports from Cambodia, a report by the Financial Times stated. Dr Lisa Jones-Engel, who is a Peta senior science adviser, told The Guardian, "There is no indication that the CDC or research industries have been transparent with the public about these diseased monkeys." As quoted by Financial Times, Matthew Bailey, the president at the National Association for Biomedical Research, said, "If companies and academic researchers can't get the non-human primate [monkeys] research models they need — then the work stops. You can say goodbye to new vaccines and drugs." Bailey added that "it is of crucial importance to public health and national security." The report further mentioned a case study of Melioidosis, which is an uncommon but potentially fatal disease in humans caused by the bacterium B pseudomallei. Watch this report: × The bacteria are native to southeast Asia and are brought on by contact with the pathogen through soil or water. According to the CDC, B pseudomallei is a "Tier 1 select agent" with the potential to be used in bioterrorism and has a death rate of up to 50 per cent. In a research paper, which was published last week, details of a case are mentioned when one of the macaques in the US was diagnosed with B pseudomallei. The primate entered the US from Cambodia by air with 359 other macaques and was in quarantine when the diagnosis was done in Texas in January 2021. In America, the imported non-human primates, or NHPs, are held in CDC-mandated quarantine for 31 days while undergoing testing for infectious diseases. Amid concerns, the macaque was euthanized and other monkeys shipped with the infected monkey "appeared healthy at the end of the quarantine period and were released from CDC-mandated quarantine", the report mentioned. The report titled "Melioidosis in a Cynomolgus Macaque Imported to the United States from Cambodia", stated that the global movement of humans and animals can introduce B pseudomallei into nonendemic regions of the United States. As quoted by Guardian, Jones-Engel said: "Monkeys imported from Asia can harbour the Burkholderia pathogen for months, shedding the bacteria via their feces, urine, blood and saliva into the environment. The CDC knows the danger to humans and has failed to warn the public." The study suggested that in order to prevent the introduction of infectious agents to the US, CDC requires newly imported primates to be "quarantined for at least 31 d, during which time their health is closely monitored". 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.

'CDC failed to warn public': Monkeys imported to US from Cambodia carried deadly viruses, bacteria - report

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Belarus on Monday (December 19) to discuss the key aspects of the further development of the strategic partnership and alliance between both nations. Russian defence and foreign ministers also accompanied Putin during his rare visit to the ex-Soviet ally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin's visit came on the same day when Russia reportedly launched a "kamikaze" drone attack in Ukraine. Moscow targeted key infrastructure in and around Kyiv which caused emergency blackouts in a dozen regions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kremlin's statement mentioned that the focus of Putin's visit is on the integration within the Union State, as well as current issues on the international and regional agenda.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian state television showed Putin disembarking a plane at an airport in Minsk. He was greeted by his close ally Lukashenko ahead of bilateral talks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some Western experts have raised concerns that Putin will urge Belarus to join the fresh ground offensive against Ukraine. If it happened, it will open a new front for Kyiv in the ongoing war, which started on February 24.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov denied all the reports and termed them "totally stupid, groundless fabrications."</p>

<p>As translated by the news agency Reuters, Putin said, "I want to note that last year, in 2021, we saw a very good jump forward in our trade and economy. Our trade turnover, and I want to stress this, even before all the different events connected to the "special military operation", before that, in 2021, rose by a third and reached $38.5 billion. That's a really good, important result."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | Taiwan's military intake the lowest in a decade&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>On the other hand, Lukashenko told Putin, "Difficult times require us to have political will and to focus on getting results on all topics of the bilateral agenda. The main issues lately have been defence and security issues."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the visit, Russia announced its forces were running military drills with Belarusian forces. The Russian defence ministry released footage of drills in Belarus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The footage showed soldiers conducting tank manoeuvres and practising artillery and sniper fire at a snow-dusted training ground. The ministry said: "From the morning until the evening twilight -- there is not a single second of silence at the training grounds of Belarus."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Belarus on Monday (December 19) to discuss the key aspects of the further development of the strategic partnership and alliance between both nations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Belarus on Monday (December 19) to discuss the key aspects of the further development of the strategic partnership and alliance between both nations. Russian defence and foreign ministers also accompanied Putin during his rare visit to the ex-Soviet ally. Putin's visit came on the same day when Russia reportedly launched a "kamikaze" drone attack in Ukraine. Moscow targeted key infrastructure in and around Kyiv which caused emergency blackouts in a dozen regions. Kremlin's statement mentioned that the focus of Putin's visit is on the integration within the Union State, as well as current issues on the international and regional agenda. The Russian state television showed Putin disembarking a plane at an airport in Minsk. He was greeted by his close ally Lukashenko ahead of bilateral talks. Some Western experts have raised concerns that Putin will urge Belarus to join the fresh ground offensive against Ukraine. If it happened, it will open a new front for Kyiv in the ongoing war, which started on February 24. But Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov denied all the reports and termed them "totally stupid, groundless fabrications." As translated by the news agency Reuters, Putin said, "I want to note that last year, in 2021, we saw a very good jump forward in our trade and economy. Our trade turnover, and I want to stress this, even before all the different events connected to the "special military operation", before that, in 2021, rose by a third and reached $38.5 billion. That's a really good, important result." WATCH | WION Fineprint | Taiwan's military intake the lowest in a decade × On the other hand, Lukashenko told Putin, "Difficult times require us to have political will and to focus on getting results on all topics of the bilateral agenda. The main issues lately have been defence and security issues." Ahead of the visit, Russia announced its forces were running military drills with Belarusian forces. The Russian defence ministry released footage of drills in Belarus. The footage showed soldiers conducting tank manoeuvres and practising artillery and sniper fire at a snow-dusted training ground. The ministry said: "From the morning until the evening twilight -- there is not a single second of silence at the training grounds of Belarus." (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's rare visit to Belarus: Lukashenko urges unity with Russia in 'difficult times'

<p>In the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) seized a record number of guns at airport security checkpoints this year. The report published on Friday (December 16) mentioned that as of December 16, the agency has stopped 6,301 firearms, and more than 88 per cent of them were loaded. The number is alarming amid a rise in gun violence in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the official release, the agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security also mentioned that number has surpassed the previous record of 5,972 firearms detected in 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>TSA, which has authority over the security of transportation systems within and connecting to the United States, expects to prevent about 6,600 firearms in carry-on bags from entering the secure area of airports by the end of 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The number in 2022 is nearly a 10 per cent increase over 2021's record level.&nbsp;</p>

<p>TSA Administrator David Pekoske said, "I applaud the work of our Transportation Security Officers who do an excellent job of preventing firearms from getting into the secure area of airports, and onboard aircraft."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Firearms are prohibited in carry-on bags at the checkpoint and onboard aircraft. When a passenger brings a firearm to the checkpoint, this consumes significant security resources and poses a potential threat to transportation security, in addition to being very costly for the passenger," Pekoske added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK billionaire numbers up by 20% since pandemic&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>In America, firearm possession laws are different in different states, depending upon the local government. But notably, TSA has never allowed carrying firearms in carry-on bags at the security checkpoint, even if a passenger has a concealed weapon permit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gun ownership in the US has grown significantly over the last several years and officials have raised concerns after multiple incidents of gun violence in recent years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Therefore, to prevent the threat of firearms at checkpoints, TSA has increased the maximum civil penalty for a firearms violation to $14,950.&nbsp;</p>

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In the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) seized a record number of guns at airport security checkpoints this year. The report published on Friday (December 16) mentioned that as of December 16, the agency has stopped 6,301 firearms, and more than 88 per cent of them were loaded.

In the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) seized a record number of guns at airport security checkpoints this year. The report published on Friday (December 16) mentioned that as of December 16, the agency has stopped 6,301 firearms, and more than 88 per cent of them were loaded. The number is alarming amid a rise in gun violence in the country. In the official release, the agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security also mentioned that number has surpassed the previous record of 5,972 firearms detected in 2021. TSA, which has authority over the security of transportation systems within and connecting to the United States, expects to prevent about 6,600 firearms in carry-on bags from entering the secure area of airports by the end of 2022. The number in 2022 is nearly a 10 per cent increase over 2021's record level. TSA Administrator David Pekoske said, "I applaud the work of our Transportation Security Officers who do an excellent job of preventing firearms from getting into the secure area of airports, and onboard aircraft." "Firearms are prohibited in carry-on bags at the checkpoint and onboard aircraft. When a passenger brings a firearm to the checkpoint, this consumes significant security resources and poses a potential threat to transportation security, in addition to being very costly for the passenger," Pekoske added. WATCH | UK billionaire numbers up by 20% since pandemic × In America, firearm possession laws are different in different states, depending upon the local government. But notably, TSA has never allowed carrying firearms in carry-on bags at the security checkpoint, even if a passenger has a concealed weapon permit. Gun ownership in the US has grown significantly over the last several years and officials have raised concerns after multiple incidents of gun violence in recent years. Therefore, to prevent the threat of firearms at checkpoints, TSA has increased the maximum civil penalty for a firearms violation to $14,950. 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: Security seized a record number of guns at airports, most of them were loaded

<p>Iran's official IRNA news agency reported on Monday (December 19) that four Iranian security personnel were killed in the southeast part of the nation. As per the reports, the alleged killers fled to the neighbouring country Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident occurred in the Saravan area of the Sistan-Baluchistan province. So far, the officials have not provided further details.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The region where the incident took place is the scene of some of the deadliest unrest during protests, that gripped the entire nation in the past few weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The region is also infamous for extremist and criminal unrest where security forces often clash with drug smugglers in the area that borders Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Terrorists seize a counter-terrorism centre in Bannu, Pakistan&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The IRNA news agency said that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps members were killed "during a terrorist act".&nbsp;</p>

<p>IRNA said about the assailants: "The powerful presence of the security forces pushed elements of the group to flee towards Pakistan."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hosseinali Farahi, the head of the Saravan border guards, said on Sunday that he reported a clash between his forces and "armed aggressors who were members of a terrorist group".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Farahi added that the aggressors "intended to enter Iranian territory from Pakistan to carry out sabotage operations, and fled to the neighbouring country".&nbsp;</p>

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Iran's official IRNA news agency reported on Monday (December 19) that four Iranian security personnel were killed in the southeast part of the nation. As per the reports, the alleged killers fled to the neighbouring country Pakistan.

Iran's official IRNA news agency reported on Monday (December 19) that four Iranian security personnel were killed in the southeast part of the nation. As per the reports, the alleged killers fled to the neighbouring country Pakistan. The incident occurred in the Saravan area of the Sistan-Baluchistan province. So far, the officials have not provided further details. The region where the incident took place is the scene of some of the deadliest unrest during protests, that gripped the entire nation in the past few weeks. The region is also infamous for extremist and criminal unrest where security forces often clash with drug smugglers in the area that borders Pakistan. WATCH | Terrorists seize a counter-terrorism centre in Bannu, Pakistan × The IRNA news agency said that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps members were killed "during a terrorist act". IRNA said about the assailants: "The powerful presence of the security forces pushed elements of the group to flee towards Pakistan." Hosseinali Farahi, the head of the Saravan border guards, said on Sunday that he reported a clash between his forces and "armed aggressors who were members of a terrorist group". Farahi added that the aggressors "intended to enter Iranian territory from Pakistan to carry out sabotage operations, and fled to the neighbouring country". 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.

Four Iranian security personnel killed in 'terrorist' attack

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Srishti Sisodia

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