To boost the defence mechanism, the Pentagon in its recent statement on Wednesday (October 26) said that the US Navy and Army recently blasted off a rocket in Virginia to test a few hypersonic weapons.&nbsp;

The Navy in its statement said, "Sandia National Laboratories ran the test from NASA's Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia, which evaluated hypersonic weapon communications and navigation equipment as well as advanced materials that can withstand the heat in a "realistic hypersonic environment," Reuters reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-warns-russia-against-using-nukes-says-would-be-incredibly-serious-mistake-528412">Also read&nbsp;| Biden warns Russia against using nukes, says it would be 'incredibly serious mistake'</a>

The test was done&nbsp;to validate&nbsp;aspects of the Navy's Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) and the Army's Long Range Hypersonic Weapons( LHRW).

Calling the experiment a success, the Pentagon said that this experiment will help the country to develop a new class of defence weapons.&nbsp;

For this test, the Pentagon used a sounding rocket, a bit smaller and much more affordable than the original one. The vehicle filled din gap between ground testing and full-system flight testing.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-us-defence-secretary-ash-carter-dies-at-68-528380">Also read |&nbsp;Former US defence secretary Ash Carter dies at 68</a>

Unlike its other air-breathing hypersonic weapons, the glide bodies use scramjet engine technology and high speed to compress air force combustion to maintain hypersonic&nbsp;speeds.&nbsp;

With global threats and invasions increasing, the United States along with its rivals focusing on developing hypersonic missiles that will soon take over the traditional means of weapons.

For the US, companies like Lockheed Martin Corp and Raytheon Technologies Corp are working to develop hypersonic missiles.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

To boost the defence mechanism, the Pentagon in its recent statement on Wednesday (October 26) said that the US Navy and Army recently blasted off a rocket in Virginia to test a few hypersonic weapons.

To boost the defence mechanism, the Pentagon in its recent statement on Wednesday (October 26) said that the US Navy and Army recently blasted off a rocket in Virginia to test a few hypersonic weapons. The Navy in its statement said, "Sandia National Laboratories ran the test from NASA's Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia, which evaluated hypersonic weapon communications and navigation equipment as well as advanced materials that can withstand the heat in a "realistic hypersonic environment," Reuters reported. Also read | Biden warns Russia against using nukes, says it would be 'incredibly serious mistake' The test was done to validate aspects of the Navy's Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) and the Army's Long Range Hypersonic Weapons( LHRW). Calling the experiment a success, the Pentagon said that this experiment will help the country to develop a new class of defence weapons. For this test, the Pentagon used a sounding rocket, a bit smaller and much more affordable than the original one. The vehicle filled din gap between ground testing and full-system flight testing. Also read | Former US defence secretary Ash Carter dies at 68 Unlike its other air-breathing hypersonic weapons, the glide bodies use scramjet engine technology and high speed to compress air force combustion to maintain hypersonic speeds. With global threats and invasions increasing, the United States along with its rivals focusing on developing hypersonic missiles that will soon take over the traditional means of weapons. For the US, companies like Lockheed Martin Corp and Raytheon Technologies Corp are working to develop hypersonic missiles. (With input from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: Pentagon tests dozen hypersonic weapons to develop new defence class, calls it successful 

Border officials in Vilnius, Lithuania, reported that Russian media figure Ksenia Sobchak has fled to the country from Russia.&nbsp;

Sobchak is&nbsp;the daughter of Russian President Vladimir Putin's mentor. She is reportedly Putins' goddaughter. Her father, the late Saint Petersburg mayor Anatoly Sobchak was Putin's boss.&nbsp;

Sobchak is a popular media personality who even stood in opposition to Putin in the 2018 elections.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-mobilisation-chief-found-dead-in-suspicious-circumstances-525836">Also read | Putin's mobilisation chief found dead under 'suspicious circumstances'</a>

A Lithuanian official in conversation with AFP confirmed Sobchak's arrival.&nbsp;Lithuania had earlier barred Russians from entering the borders amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, Russia's news agency TASS reported that the 40-year-old journalist departed from Moscow at night, and flew to Lithuania via Belarus.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-way-flight-tickets-from-russia-increase-by-27-amid-putins-mobilisation-call-522317">Also read |&nbsp;One-way flight tickets from Russia increase by 27% amid Putin's mobilisation call&nbsp;</a>

Her media group, Attention Media has been under constant pressure from the government. The commercial director of the group, Kirill Sukhanov was earlier arrested by the government during an investigation. Sobchak's villa&nbsp;was also searched thoroughly during the investigation.&nbsp;

This is not the first time any Russian has fled the country. Ever since the invasion of Ukraine and the announcement of mobilisation a few weeks back, thousands of Russians have fled the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Border officials in Vilnius, Lithuania, reported that Russian media figure Ksenia Sobchak has fled to the country from Russia. Sobchak is the daughter of Russian President Vladimir Putin's mentor.

Border officials in Vilnius, Lithuania, reported that Russian media figure Ksenia Sobchak has fled to the country from Russia. Sobchak is the daughter of Russian President Vladimir Putin's mentor. She is reportedly Putins' goddaughter. Her father, the late Saint Petersburg mayor Anatoly Sobchak was Putin's boss. Sobchak is a popular media personality who even stood in opposition to Putin in the 2018 elections. Also read | Putin's mobilisation chief found dead under 'suspicious circumstances' A Lithuanian official in conversation with AFP confirmed Sobchak's arrival. Lithuania had earlier barred Russians from entering the borders amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, Russia's news agency TASS reported that the 40-year-old journalist departed from Moscow at night, and flew to Lithuania via Belarus. Also read | One-way flight tickets from Russia increase by 27% amid Putin's mobilisation call Her media group, Attention Media has been under constant pressure from the government. The commercial director of the group, Kirill Sukhanov was earlier arrested by the government during an investigation. Sobchak's villa was also searched thoroughly during the investigation. This is not the first time any Russian has fled the country. Ever since the invasion of Ukraine and the announcement of mobilisation a few weeks back, thousands of Russians have fled the country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin's goddaughter and renowned Russian media figure Ksenia Sobchak flees to Lithuania 

A large international study published in BMJ has linked AstraZeneca's nasal Covid vaccine to a 30 per cent higher risk of causing rare blood clot conditions in comparison to that of Pfizer.

Several countries worldwide have already altered the vision of Covid vaccine after it was discovered that in a&nbsp;tiny number of cases, thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) can be a possible effect due to the use of the adenovirus sector or an "engineered" virus used by AstraZeneca or Johnson &amp; Johnson.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/despite-disappointing-results-researchers-still-hope-for-nasal-vaccine-astrazeneca-526298">Also read |&nbsp;Covid: Despite disappointing results, researchers still hope for AstraZeneca nasal vaccine</a>

TTS is a condition where life-threatening blood clots are formed with low levels of platelets.&nbsp;

The research analysed over 10 million people across France, Germany, Netherlands and UK.

In its first test, data of nearly 1.3 million people with the first dose of AstraZeneca vaccine was compared to 2.1 million people who took the Pfizer one. After the test, a total of 862 people recorded "thrombocytopenia" within 28 days after taking AstraZeneca vaccine compared to over 500 who took Pfizer's. This clearly showed a 30 per cent high risk of the rare blood condition, AFP reported.

However, there was no&nbsp;additional risk in the case of the second dose in both vaccines.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-takers-for-astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-canada-will-throw-away-136-million-expired-doses-494935">Also read |&nbsp;No takers for AstraZeneca Covid vaccine: Canada will throw away 13.6 million expired doses</a>

Since the analysis was observational, it could not determine cause and effect. Further analyses are being carried out.&nbsp;

A microbiologist in the UK said the rare condition of thrombocytopenia was recorded after just 0.04 per cent of vaccines were given in Germany and UK.&nbsp;

The AstraZeneca vaccine was never authorised by the US. It performed poorly in its first trial as the vaccine promoted antibodies in a few participants and the immune responses were also weak in comparison to traditional jabs.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A large international study published in BMJ has linked AstraZeneca's nasal Covid vaccine to a 30 per cent higher risk of causing rare blood clot conditions in comparison to that of Pfizer.

A large international study published in BMJ has linked AstraZeneca's nasal Covid vaccine to a 30 per cent higher risk of causing rare blood clot conditions in comparison to that of Pfizer. Several countries worldwide have already altered the vision of Covid vaccine after it was discovered that in a tiny number of cases, thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) can be a possible effect due to the use of the adenovirus sector or an "engineered" virus used by AstraZeneca or Johnson & Johnson. Also read | Covid: Despite disappointing results, researchers still hope for AstraZeneca nasal vaccine TTS is a condition where life-threatening blood clots are formed with low levels of platelets. The research analysed over 10 million people across France, Germany, Netherlands and UK. In its first test, data of nearly 1.3 million people with the first dose of AstraZeneca vaccine was compared to 2.1 million people who took the Pfizer one. After the test, a total of 862 people recorded "thrombocytopenia" within 28 days after taking AstraZeneca vaccine compared to over 500 who took Pfizer's. This clearly showed a 30 per cent high risk of the rare blood condition, AFP reported. However, there was no additional risk in the case of the second dose in both vaccines. Also read | No takers for AstraZeneca Covid vaccine: Canada will throw away 13.6 million expired doses Since the analysis was observational, it could not determine cause and effect. Further analyses are being carried out. A microbiologist in the UK said the rare condition of thrombocytopenia was recorded after just 0.04 per cent of vaccines were given in Germany and UK. The AstraZeneca vaccine was never authorised by the US. It performed poorly in its first trial as the vaccine promoted antibodies in a few participants and the immune responses were also weak in comparison to traditional jabs. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

New study links AstraZeneca Covid vaccine to 30% higher risk of rare blood clotting condition

The funeral prayers for Arshad Sharif, a senior journalist killed in Kenya, were held at 2&nbsp;pm in Islamabad at Shah Faisal Mosque.&nbsp;

Security at the mosque was increased with over 3,500 security personnel being deployed.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Visuals of Arshad Sharif's janaza. He must be smiling right now from somewhere up in the heavens after seeing how much people love him. Alwida Arshad sharif 💔💔<a href="https://t.co/Hn8cXy9sZ8">pic.twitter.com/Hn8cXy9sZ8</a>
— Saith Abdullah (@SaithAbdullah99) <a href="https://twitter.com/SaithAbdullah99/status/1585588027996372993?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The journalist was shot dead in Kenya by the local police in an alleged case of "mistaken identity."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-prominent-journalist-arshad-sharifs-body-arrives-in-islamabad-528621">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan: Body of slain journalist Arshad Sharif arrives in Islamabad from Kenya</a>

The incident took place on Sunday (October 23). The Star reported that he was shot in the head and died after he and his driver breached a roadblock that was meant to monitor the vehicles at the place.&nbsp;

Kenyan police officials claimed the car was stopped and both the journalist and driver were asked to identify themselves but they failed which later led to the chase&nbsp;and killing of the senior journalist.&nbsp;

The instance has heightened the political tensions in Pakistan and many dignitaries demand a thorough investigation into the matter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-to-visit-china-for-the-first-time-since-assuming-office-528504">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan PM to visit China for the first time since assuming office</a>

Several Kenyan authorities have also been questioning Kenya's police claims.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 49-year-old journalist fled to Dubai in August after being charged with multiple cases, including&nbsp;one sedition case over an interview with PTI leader Shahbaz Gill during which the leader made few controversial comments. After receiving death threats, he fled to Dubai and relocated to Kenya after his visa expired, the Business Recorder reported.&nbsp;

The funeral prayers for Arshad Sharif, a senior journalist killed in Kenya, were held at 2 pm in Islamabad at Shah Faisal Mosque. Security at the mosque was increased with over 3,500 security personnel being deployed.

The funeral prayers for Arshad Sharif, a senior journalist killed in Kenya, were held at 2 pm in Islamabad at Shah Faisal Mosque. Security at the mosque was increased with over 3,500 security personnel being deployed. Visuals of Arshad Sharif's janaza. He must be smiling right now from somewhere up in the heavens after seeing how much people love him. Alwida Arshad sharif 💔💔pic.twitter.com/Hn8cXy9sZ8 — Saith Abdullah (@SaithAbdullah99) October 27, 2022 × The journalist was shot dead in Kenya by the local police in an alleged case of "mistaken identity." Also read | Pakistan: Body of slain journalist Arshad Sharif arrives in Islamabad from Kenya The incident took place on Sunday (October 23). The Star reported that he was shot in the head and died after he and his driver breached a roadblock that was meant to monitor the vehicles at the place. Kenyan police officials claimed the car was stopped and both the journalist and driver were asked to identify themselves but they failed which later led to the chase and killing of the senior journalist. The instance has heightened the political tensions in Pakistan and many dignitaries demand a thorough investigation into the matter. Also read | Pakistan PM to visit China for the first time since assuming office Several Kenyan authorities have also been questioning Kenya's police claims. The 49-year-old journalist fled to Dubai in August after being charged with multiple cases, including one sedition case over an interview with PTI leader Shahbaz Gill during which the leader made few controversial comments. After receiving death threats, he fled to Dubai and relocated to Kenya after his visa expired, the Business Recorder reported.

Thousands of Pakistanis attend senior journalist Arshad Sharif's funeral, politicians demand probe  

For the first time, a turban-wearing Sikh woman has been elected as the city councillor of Brampton city in Canada.&nbsp;

Navjit Kaur Brar, a respiratory therapist, won the race on Monday in Wards 2 and 6.

She was a former Conservative MP for Brampton West. She secured over 28 per cent of votes cast, Brampton Guardian reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-hopes-to-build-a-britain-where-children-can-light-their-diyas-528747">Also read |&nbsp;At Diwali event, Rishi Sunak hopes to build a Britain where children can 'light their diyas'</a>

Her opponents Chambers received 22.59 per cent and Camren Wilson received 15.41 per cent of the total votes cast.&nbsp;

As part of her campaign during the last two months, she went door to door and spoke to over 22,000 residents.

She said, "I'm excited. I'm so proud of all Bramptonians who have voted, making sure our voices are heard more than ever before."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/bees-order-numbers-in-increasing-size-from-left-to-right-study-reveals-528769">Also read |&nbsp;Bees 'count' numbers in increasing size from left to right, study reveals</a>

Brar&nbsp;had earlier lost as the Ontario NDP candidate to Progressive Conservative MPP Amarjot Sandhu.&nbsp;

In&nbsp;her speech, Brar said, "I think a lot of people can relate to me. I'm just a respiratory therapist. I've actually worked with a lot of people. I'm a mom of three and a lot of people in Brampton are families."

She'll mainly focus on three aspects — building new infrastructure, reducing crime in the area and improving road safety.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

 
&nbsp;

For the first time, a turban-wearing Sikh woman has been elected as the city councillor of Brampton city in Canada. Navjit Kaur Brar, a respiratory therapist, won the race on Monday in Wards 2 and 6.

For the first time, a turban-wearing Sikh woman has been elected as the city councillor of Brampton city in Canada. Navjit Kaur Brar, a respiratory therapist, won the race on Monday in Wards 2 and 6. She was a former Conservative MP for Brampton West. She secured over 28 per cent of votes cast, Brampton Guardian reported. Also read | At Diwali event, Rishi Sunak hopes to build a Britain where children can 'light their diyas' Her opponents Chambers received 22.59 per cent and Camren Wilson received 15.41 per cent of the total votes cast. As part of her campaign during the last two months, she went door to door and spoke to over 22,000 residents. She said, "I'm excited. I'm so proud of all Bramptonians who have voted, making sure our voices are heard more than ever before." Also read | Bees 'count' numbers in increasing size from left to right, study reveals Brar had earlier lost as the Ontario NDP candidate to Progressive Conservative MPP Amarjot Sandhu. In her speech, Brar said, "I think a lot of people can relate to me. I'm just a respiratory therapist. I've actually worked with a lot of people. I'm a mom of three and a lot of people in Brampton are families." She'll mainly focus on three aspects — building new infrastructure, reducing crime in the area and improving road safety. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Canada: Turban-wearing Sikh woman to be the new city councillor of Brampton

Liz Truss announced on Thursday that she will be stepping down as the Prime Minister of the UK. In other news, as per media reports,&nbsp;Elon Musk informed potential investors in his attempt to buy Twitter Inc that he intended to fire about 75 per cent&nbsp;of the social media company. Meanwhile, Iran's&nbsp;deputy ambassador during her speech at UNSC&nbsp;rejected the idea of West countries serving as 'caretakers' for women in Iran. Finally,&nbsp; Hans Niemann, who has been embroiled in a cheating scandal, has sued world champion Magnus Carlsen and others seeking $100 million in damages.

Click on the headline to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/liz-truss-resigns-as-british-prime-minister-amid-growing-economic-concerns-527114">UK set for another leadership contest after Liz Truss quits as Prime Minister</a>

"We delivered on energy bill and upon cutting taxes. But&nbsp;I recognise that given the situation, I cannot deliver the mandate. I am resigning as the leader of the Conservative Party," Truss said during the press briefing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/report-elon-musk-to-sack-nearly-75-of-twitter-employees-527241">Twitter tells staff 'no plans for layoffs' following reports Musk will sack nearly 75% of employees</a>

According to the source, Twitter's current management intended to reduce the company's payroll by around $800 million by the end of the next year, which would result in the departure of close to a quarter of the employees.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unsc-irans-deputy-ambassador-rejects-wests-role-to-act-as-caretakers-of-iranian-women-527262">UNSC: Iran's deputy ambassador rejects West's role to act as 'caretakers,' says women can deal with it</a>

Ambassador Zahra Ershadi, during the UNSC, meet stated that Iranian women are aware of how to deal with the authorities in a civil and constructive way.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/niemann-sues-carlsen-chesscom-and-others-for-colluding-to-blacklist-him-527246">Niemann sues Carlsen, Chess.com and others for 'colluding to blacklist' him</a>

The 19-year-old American grandmaster filed the lawsuit in the Eastern Missouri District Court which says that defendants are “colluding to blacklist” him from the chess world.

Watch |&nbsp;US Midterm elections: Republicans step up crime debate, Democrats keep spotlight on abortion rights

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-midterm-elections-republicans-step-up-crime-debate-democrats-keep-spotlight-on-abortion-rights-527259/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

Liz Truss announced on Thursday that she will be stepping down as the Prime Minister of the UK. In other news, as per media reports, Elon Musk informed potential investors in his attempt to buy Twitter Inc that he intended to fire about 75 per cent of the social media company.

Liz Truss announced on Thursday that she will be stepping down as the Prime Minister of the UK. In other news, as per media reports, Elon Musk informed potential investors in his attempt to buy Twitter Inc that he intended to fire about 75 per cent of the social media company. Meanwhile, Iran's deputy ambassador during her speech at UNSC rejected the idea of West countries serving as 'caretakers' for women in Iran. Finally, Hans Niemann, who has been embroiled in a cheating scandal, has sued world champion Magnus Carlsen and others seeking $100 million in damages. Click on the headline to read more: UK set for another leadership contest after Liz Truss quits as Prime Minister "We delivered on energy bill and upon cutting taxes. But I recognise that given the situation, I cannot deliver the mandate. I am resigning as the leader of the Conservative Party," Truss said during the press briefing. Twitter tells staff 'no plans for layoffs' following reports Musk will sack nearly 75% of employees According to the source, Twitter's current management intended to reduce the company's payroll by around $800 million by the end of the next year, which would result in the departure of close to a quarter of the employees. UNSC: Iran's deputy ambassador rejects West's role to act as 'caretakers,' says women can deal with it Ambassador Zahra Ershadi, during the UNSC, meet stated that Iranian women are aware of how to deal with the authorities in a civil and constructive way. Niemann sues Carlsen, Chess.com and others for 'colluding to blacklist' him The 19-year-old American grandmaster filed the lawsuit in the Eastern Missouri District Court which says that defendants are “colluding to blacklist” him from the chess world. Watch | US Midterm elections: Republicans step up crime debate, Democrats keep spotlight on abortion rights

Morning news brief: Race for new UK PM heats up, Chess champion Niemann sues Carlsen, & more 

Diwali, not just a festival but an emotion for millions, will now be a public school holiday in New York City from 2023, the mayor announced on Thursday (October 21).

Eric Adams made the announcement along with New York Assembly Member Jenifer Rajkumar, who proposed the legislation to recognise 'Diwali' at NYC schools, CNN reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-of-texas-allegedly-sues-google-for-using-biometric-information-without-consent-527248">Also read |&nbsp;US State of Texas allegedly sues Google for using biometric information without 'consent'</a>

The mayor further said that the decision was a "long overdue" acknowledgement for the Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist communities.&nbsp;

Rajkumar said, "The time has come to recognise over 200,000 New Yorkers of the Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, and Jain faiths who celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights."

This time, the legislators switched out 'Anniversary Day,' or 'Brooklyn-Queen Day' for the Hindu festival Diwali. Rajkumar said 'Anniversary Day' was "an obscure and antiquated day," as compared to Diwali.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-gives-go-ahead-to-novavax-covid-booster-dose-526933">Also read |&nbsp;US gives go-ahead to Novavax Covid booster dose</a>

The assembly member noted that people said that there was no space for the festival to be put on the school calendar and&nbsp;now the new legislation has made space for it.&nbsp;

The Anniversary Day dates back to 1829, and schools have been observing a day since the mid-1990s.&nbsp;

The New York mayor during the conference said that the legislation will make students learn more about Diwali and its celebrations. CNN reported him as saying, "We're going to have them start talking about what it is to celebrate the Festival of Lights, and how do you turn a light on within yourself."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Diwali, not just a festival but an emotion for millions, will now be a public school holiday in New York City from 2023, the mayor announced on Thursday (October 21).

Diwali, not just a festival but an emotion for millions, will now be a public school holiday in New York City from 2023, the mayor announced on Thursday (October 21). Eric Adams made the announcement along with New York Assembly Member Jenifer Rajkumar, who proposed the legislation to recognise 'Diwali' at NYC schools, CNN reported. Also read | US State of Texas allegedly sues Google for using biometric information without 'consent' The mayor further said that the decision was a "long overdue" acknowledgement for the Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist communities. Rajkumar said, "The time has come to recognise over 200,000 New Yorkers of the Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, and Jain faiths who celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights." This time, the legislators switched out 'Anniversary Day,' or 'Brooklyn-Queen Day' for the Hindu festival Diwali. Rajkumar said 'Anniversary Day' was "an obscure and antiquated day," as compared to Diwali. Also read | US gives go-ahead to Novavax Covid booster dose The assembly member noted that people said that there was no space for the festival to be put on the school calendar and now the new legislation has made space for it. The Anniversary Day dates back to 1829, and schools have been observing a day since the mid-1990s. The New York mayor during the conference said that the legislation will make students learn more about Diwali and its celebrations. CNN reported him as saying, "We're going to have them start talking about what it is to celebrate the Festival of Lights, and how do you turn a light on within yourself." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Diwali' to be a public school holiday from 2023 in New York City, announces mayor

Colombia, the world's leading&nbsp;cocaine&nbsp;producer, broke its own record for coca leaf cultivation in 2021, a UN body said Thursday, as the government highlighted the "failure" of the US-led war on drugs.

There was "an increase of 43 per cent in the area planted with coca... from 143,000 hectares in 2020 to 204,000 ha in 2021," the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said in a statement.

This was the highest figure since the UNODC started monitoring&nbsp;Colombia's&nbsp;cocaine&nbsp; production 21 years ago.

The increase in coca cultivation went hand-in-hand with a rise in&nbsp;cocaine&nbsp;production from 1,010 tonnes in 2020 to 1,400 tonnes last year, destined mainly for the United States and Europe.

"This continued an upward trend that has been consolidating since 2014," said the UNODC.

At the presentation of the report in Bogota, Justice Minister Nestor Osuna said the numbers were clear evidence "of the failure of the war on drugs."

He said the government was working on a new drug policy, which for now would not include legalizing&nbsp;cocaine.

But he expressed the hope that "one day" the&nbsp;cocaine&nbsp;trade will be regulated at a global level.

As part of a new approach, Colombia's leftist President Gustavo Petro has mooted an amnesty for drug traffickers willing to give themselves up and abandon the trade.

He has also proposed purchasing arable land to redistribute to small farmers to make a living from legal crops, free from the violent yoke of the drug gangs they rely on to make a living.

Holistic approach

Petro considers small-scale coca growers the victims of a state that for years poisoned their land with pesticides to eradicate the illegal plantations.

Thousands of coca growers and pickers are behind bars on trafficking charges in Colombia.

Petro's predecessor, Ivan Duque, had been a key ally of the drug war led by the United States -- the world's leading&nbsp;cocaine&nbsp;consumer.

Earlier this month, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met Petro in Colombia, saying afterwards they shared "extensive common ground," despite the new president's change of tack.

"We strongly support the holistic approach the Petro administration is taking," Blinken said after the meeting.

"On both the enforcement side but also on the comprehensive approach to the problem... I think that we're largely in sync," he added.

The UNODC said coca cultivation "continues to threaten the cultural potential of the country and its biodiversity," contributing to deforestation.

Half of the plantations are in special management areas, it said, and a high percentage on the lands of black communities and in forest reserve areas.

Colombia, the world's leading cocaine producer, broke its own record for coca leaf cultivation in 2021, a UN body said Thursday, as the government highlighted the "failure" of the US-led war on drugs.

Colombia, the world's leading cocaine producer, broke its own record for coca leaf cultivation in 2021, a UN body said Thursday, as the government highlighted the "failure" of the US-led war on drugs. There was "an increase of 43 per cent in the area planted with coca... from 143,000 hectares in 2020 to 204,000 ha in 2021," the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said in a statement. This was the highest figure since the UNODC started monitoring Colombia's cocaine production 21 years ago. The increase in coca cultivation went hand-in-hand with a rise in cocaine production from 1,010 tonnes in 2020 to 1,400 tonnes last year, destined mainly for the United States and Europe. "This continued an upward trend that has been consolidating since 2014," said the UNODC. At the presentation of the report in Bogota, Justice Minister Nestor Osuna said the numbers were clear evidence "of the failure of the war on drugs." He said the government was working on a new drug policy, which for now would not include legalizing cocaine. But he expressed the hope that "one day" the cocaine trade will be regulated at a global level. As part of a new approach, Colombia's leftist President Gustavo Petro has mooted an amnesty for drug traffickers willing to give themselves up and abandon the trade. He has also proposed purchasing arable land to redistribute to small farmers to make a living from legal crops, free from the violent yoke of the drug gangs they rely on to make a living. Holistic approach Petro considers small-scale coca growers the victims of a state that for years poisoned their land with pesticides to eradicate the illegal plantations. Thousands of coca growers and pickers are behind bars on trafficking charges in Colombia. Petro's predecessor, Ivan Duque, had been a key ally of the drug war led by the United States -- the world's leading cocaine consumer. Earlier this month, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met Petro in Colombia, saying afterwards they shared "extensive common ground," despite the new president's change of tack. "We strongly support the holistic approach the Petro administration is taking," Blinken said after the meeting. "On both the enforcement side but also on the comprehensive approach to the problem... I think that we're largely in sync," he added. The UNODC said coca cultivation "continues to threaten the cultural potential of the country and its biodiversity," contributing to deforestation. Half of the plantations are in special management areas, it said, and a high percentage on the lands of black communities and in forest reserve areas.

Colombia breaks coca-growing record, slams 'failure of war on drugs', moots amnesty

After UK Prime Minister Liz Truss resigned amid the political turmoil in the country, Irish low-cost airline Ryanair took a swipe at her.&nbsp;

The airline tweeted a mock-up of a boarding card in the name of the leader, with the destination marked as ANY , or 'anywhere.' The mock-up further included a QR code that led to Google's currency chart for Pounds and Euros which indicates the pound's strengthening.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-politics-live-updates-johnson-sunak-and-mordaunt-lead-race-for-new-pm-527380">Also read |&nbsp;UK Politics LIVE updates: Johnson, Sunak and Mordaunt lead race for new PM</a>

The Twitter post even included a waving hand emoji to indicate "goodbye."&nbsp;

Humourous conversations took place between the airline, netizens and even Liverpool's John Lennon Airport, the Hindustan Times reported. &nbsp;

One said, "Make sure it's non-refundable. We know what she's like…" The Irish airline replied, "Don't worry she's no exception."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-liz-truss-govt-in-crisis-more-tory-mps-join-seeking-uk-pms-resignation-527091">Also read |&nbsp;Liz Truss resigns, becomes shortest-serving PM in Britain's history; next PM to be elected on Oct 28</a>

Truss has been the shortest-serving UK prime minister. Her big 45 billion pound tax programme during the worst inflation in the last 40 years, added questions to her leadership style.&nbsp;

Truss announced her resignation on October 20. Before that, she fired finance minister Kwasi Kwarteng and abandoned a proposal to freeze corporation tax for the coming year, but the public outrage and pressure eventually compelled her to step down.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

After UK Prime Minister Liz Truss resigned amid the political turmoil in the country, Irish low-cost airline Ryanair took a swipe at her. The airline tweeted a mock-up of a boarding card in the name of the leader, with the destination marked as ANY , or 'anywhere.

After UK Prime Minister Liz Truss resigned amid the political turmoil in the country, Irish low-cost airline Ryanair took a swipe at her. The airline tweeted a mock-up of a boarding card in the name of the leader, with the destination marked as ANY , or 'anywhere.' The mock-up further included a QR code that led to Google's currency chart for Pounds and Euros which indicates the pound's strengthening. Also read | UK Politics LIVE updates: Johnson, Sunak and Mordaunt lead race for new PM The Twitter post even included a waving hand emoji to indicate "goodbye." Humourous conversations took place between the airline, netizens and even Liverpool's John Lennon Airport, the Hindustan Times reported. One said, "Make sure it's non-refundable. We know what she's like…" The Irish airline replied, "Don't worry she's no exception." Also read | Liz Truss resigns, becomes shortest-serving PM in Britain's history; next PM to be elected on Oct 28 Truss has been the shortest-serving UK prime minister. Her big 45 billion pound tax programme during the worst inflation in the last 40 years, added questions to her leadership style. Truss announced her resignation on October 20. Before that, she fired finance minister Kwasi Kwarteng and abandoned a proposal to freeze corporation tax for the coming year, but the public outrage and pressure eventually compelled her to step down. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Irish airline Ryanair mocks Liz Truss with 'any' as destination after her resignation 

Social media giant Tik Tok's parent company has yet again made the headlines.

A Forbes report on Thursday stated that Bytedance, the Chinese firm that owns TikTok, intends to utilise the app to track locations, especially of Americans.&nbsp;

According to Forbes, ByteDance's International and Risk Control department plans to utilise TikTok to track down at least two Americans who had never worked for the company.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tiktok-raises-minimum-age-for-live-streaming-on-platform-from-16-to-18-years-527130">Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;TikTok raises minimum age for live streaming on platform from 16 to 18 years</a>

Forbes didn't disclose the reason behind the monitoring. The reports are anticipated to cause controversy as TikTok is generally in talks due to privacy and security reasons.

However, TikTok's spokesman stated that location data is gathered along with other things to assist show relevant information and adverts to users, complying with applicable changes and detecting any fraud and inauthentic conduct is there.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-take-upto-760-of-donations-displaced-families-in-syria-camps-beg-for-report-524718">Also read |&nbsp;TikTok takes 70% of profits from videos of families begging in Syria refugee camps: Report</a>

Forbes contradicted this, and said, that the Internal Audit team didn't want to utilise the data for ad-targeting purposes, but rather to monitor specific Americans in the US.&nbsp;

The app has been targeted by both Trump's administration and Biden's administration. During the Trump era, he vowed to ban the app if it fails to find a US buyer.&nbsp;

Later, the Biden administration proposed new regulations that would give the US govt control over applications over the potential threats to the national security of the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Social media giant Tik Tok's parent company has yet again made the headlines. A Forbes report on Thursday stated that Bytedance, the Chinese firm that owns TikTok, intends to utilise the app to track locations, especially of Americans.

Social media giant Tik Tok's parent company has yet again made the headlines. A Forbes report on Thursday stated that Bytedance, the Chinese firm that owns TikTok, intends to utilise the app to track locations, especially of Americans. According to Forbes, ByteDance's International and Risk Control department plans to utilise TikTok to track down at least two Americans who had never worked for the company. Also read | TikTok raises minimum age for live streaming on platform from 16 to 18 years Forbes didn't disclose the reason behind the monitoring. The reports are anticipated to cause controversy as TikTok is generally in talks due to privacy and security reasons. However, TikTok's spokesman stated that location data is gathered along with other things to assist show relevant information and adverts to users, complying with applicable changes and detecting any fraud and inauthentic conduct is there. Also read | TikTok takes 70% of profits from videos of families begging in Syria refugee camps: Report Forbes contradicted this, and said, that the Internal Audit team didn't want to utilise the data for ad-targeting purposes, but rather to monitor specific Americans in the US. The app has been targeted by both Trump's administration and Biden's administration. During the Trump era, he vowed to ban the app if it fails to find a US buyer. Later, the Biden administration proposed new regulations that would give the US govt control over applications over the potential threats to the national security of the country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

ByteDance intends to use TikTok to monitor Americans' location, claims report

The United States on Thursday (October 20)&nbsp;unveiled criminal accusations against seven Chinese nationals who were accused of conducting a surveillance and harassment campaign against a US resident and his family, in an effort to deport them to China.&nbsp;

Quanzhong An, 55, of Roslyn, New York, his 34-year-old daughter Guangyang An and five others, are the seven people accused.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-family-appeals-for-justice-in-14-year-olds-death-who-was-sent-to-a-covid-quarantine-facility-527285">Also read |&nbsp;China: Family appeals for justice in 14-year-old's death who was sent to a Covid quarantine facility</a>

The Justice Department's most recent case focuses on China's alleged immigration programme, known as "Operation Fox Hunt," and it includes an eight-count indictment that was unsealed in a US district court.&nbsp;

China and the United States do not share an extradition agreement.

Quanzhong is the principal suspect and he along with his daughter was taken into custody. The former has been charged with conspiring with China's Provisional Commission for Discipline Inspection to intimidate and harass a Chinese man and his son who lived in the US.&nbsp;

The man and his son were identified as John Doe-1 and John Doe-2. To get John Doe-1 to come back to China, his relative was forced to come from here to the US for the scheme.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/chinas-new-era-dawns-in-manchester-527312">Also read |&nbsp;China’s new era dawns in Manchester</a>

The relative further told John Doe-2 that he was forced by the Chinese government&nbsp;to go there.&nbsp;

Another prosecution of the family was a writing campaign that "coming back and giving yourself in is the only way."

As per a New York state court, the father allegedly stole money from a Chinese employer and his son also made illicit gains.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

The United States on Thursday (October 20) unveiled criminal accusations against seven Chinese nationals who were accused of conducting a surveillance and harassment campaign against a US resident and his family, in an effort to deport them to China.

The United States on Thursday (October 20) unveiled criminal accusations against seven Chinese nationals who were accused of conducting a surveillance and harassment campaign against a US resident and his family, in an effort to deport them to China. Quanzhong An, 55, of Roslyn, New York, his 34-year-old daughter Guangyang An and five others, are the seven people accused. Also read | China: Family appeals for justice in 14-year-old's death who was sent to a Covid quarantine facility The Justice Department's most recent case focuses on China's alleged immigration programme, known as "Operation Fox Hunt," and it includes an eight-count indictment that was unsealed in a US district court. China and the United States do not share an extradition agreement. Quanzhong is the principal suspect and he along with his daughter was taken into custody. The former has been charged with conspiring with China's Provisional Commission for Discipline Inspection to intimidate and harass a Chinese man and his son who lived in the US. The man and his son were identified as John Doe-1 and John Doe-2. To get John Doe-1 to come back to China, his relative was forced to come from here to the US for the scheme. Also read | China’s new era dawns in Manchester The relative further told John Doe-2 that he was forced by the Chinese government to go there. Another prosecution of the family was a writing campaign that "coming back and giving yourself in is the only way." As per a New York state court, the father allegedly stole money from a Chinese employer and his son also made illicit gains. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US charges seven Chinese nationals for running 'forced' repatriation campaign

Canada will host a meeting of female foreign ministers across the world to highlight Iran's "brutal" assault on protests sparked by the killing of Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini.&nbsp;

Melanie Joly, Canada's foreign minister made the&nbsp;announcement on Thursday (October 20). Joly's office stated that the state of women&nbsp;and human rights in Iran will be discussed by her and 14 others. It was further mentioned that they will also discuss ways to increase support for Iranians.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/16-year-old-iranian-schoolgirl-beaten-to-death-for-refusing-to-sing-anthem-praising-supreme-leader-526890">Also read |&nbsp;16-year-old Iranian schoolgirl beaten to death for refusing to sing anthem praising supreme leader</a>

As per reports, the virtual meeting will be joined by a foreign minister from Germany, Chile, Norway, New Zealand, and others.&nbsp;

The Canadian foreign minister said, "My counterparts and I will gather to send a clear message: the Iranian regime must end all forms of violence and persecution against the Iranian people, including their brutal aggressions against women in particular." 
The Guardian reports&nbsp;she further added that Canada will continue to show its support for women in Iran.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/23-kids-killed-during-crackdown-against-irans-anti-hijab-protests-un-526446">Also read |&nbsp;23 kids killed during crackdown against Iran's anti-hijab protests: UN&nbsp;</a>

Additionally, sanctions against six people and four entities, including Iran's Deputy Interior Minister Majid Mirahmadi, were imposed by Joly in response to human rights abuses in the country.&nbsp;

Protests in Iran began after 22-year-old Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini died on September 16, after being imprisoned by morality police in Tehran for three days due to her "inappropriate hijab."

Not just Canada, but people worldwide have criticised Iran for this. Several violent clashes broke out in the country leading to the death&nbsp;of many and injuries to&nbsp;several.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Canada will host a meeting of female foreign ministers across the world to highlight Iran's "brutal" assault on protests sparked by the killing of Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini.

Canada will host a meeting of female foreign ministers across the world to highlight Iran's "brutal" assault on protests sparked by the killing of Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini. Melanie Joly, Canada's foreign minister made the announcement on Thursday (October 20). Joly's office stated that the state of women and human rights in Iran will be discussed by her and 14 others. It was further mentioned that they will also discuss ways to increase support for Iranians. Also read | 16-year-old Iranian schoolgirl beaten to death for refusing to sing anthem praising supreme leader As per reports, the virtual meeting will be joined by a foreign minister from Germany, Chile, Norway, New Zealand, and others. The Canadian foreign minister said, "My counterparts and I will gather to send a clear message: the Iranian regime must end all forms of violence and persecution against the Iranian people, including their brutal aggressions against women in particular." The Guardian reports she further added that Canada will continue to show its support for women in Iran. Also read | 23 kids killed during crackdown against Iran's anti-hijab protests: UN Additionally, sanctions against six people and four entities, including Iran's Deputy Interior Minister Majid Mirahmadi, were imposed by Joly in response to human rights abuses in the country. Protests in Iran began after 22-year-old Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini died on September 16, after being imprisoned by morality police in Tehran for three days due to her "inappropriate hijab." Not just Canada, but people worldwide have criticised Iran for this. Several violent clashes broke out in the country leading to the death of many and injuries to several. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Canadian foreign minister to host virtual meeting with 14 others to discuss Iran protests

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Tanisha Rajput

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.