<p>A tragic accident involving three vehicles left nine dead on Thursday morning (July 20) in India’s western state of Gujarat. The accident took place near the ISKCON temple on Sarkhej-Gandhinagar (SG) Highway in Ahmedabad city.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Ahmedabad, Gujarat | An accident took place at the ISKCON flyover on Sarkhej-Gandhinagar (SG) highway. <a href="https://t.co/r4r9ghl3VF">pic.twitter.com/r4r9ghl3VF</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1681841635074928640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Police described it as a hit-and-run case, involving a luxury car. At least 13 people were injured and rushed to nearby hospitals.</p>

<p>Media reports said that two police officers were also among the dead. Authorities have shut down the flyover near the ISKCON temple for now.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>According to a report in Hindustan Times, the accident initially involved just two vehicles. A crowd gathered at the flyover after an SUV car rammed into a dumper from behind.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India: High vegetable prices affect consumer spending</strong></p>

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<p>It led to chaos on the road. Shortly thereafter, a speeding luxury car ploughed into the crowd, resulting in more casualties. The luxury car was running at over 100 kmph.</p>

<p>PTI news agency reported that those among the dead hailed from Botad and Surendranagar.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-government-eases-covid-19-testing-rules-for-international-travellers-617504"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Indian government eases COVID-19 testing rules for international travellers</strong></a></p>

<p>“As of now nine persons have been declared dead and 13 persons are injured in the accident that occurred at 1 am. It was a hit and run caused by a Jaguar car,” a police source was quoted as saying by the Indian Express newspaper.</p>

<p><strong><em>This is a developing story.</em></strong></p>

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A tragic accident involving three vehicles left nine dead on Thursday morning (July 20) in India’s western state of Gujarat. The accident took place near the ISKCON temple on Sarkhej-Gandhinagar (SG) Highway in Ahmedabad city.

A tragic accident involving three vehicles left nine dead on Thursday morning (July 20) in India’s western state of Gujarat. The accident took place near the ISKCON temple on Sarkhej-Gandhinagar (SG) Highway in Ahmedabad city. #WATCH | Ahmedabad, Gujarat | An accident took place at the ISKCON flyover on Sarkhej-Gandhinagar (SG) highway. pic.twitter.com/r4r9ghl3VF — ANI (@ANI) July 20, 2023 × Police described it as a hit-and-run case, involving a luxury car. At least 13 people were injured and rushed to nearby hospitals. Media reports said that two police officers were also among the dead. Authorities have shut down the flyover near the ISKCON temple for now. What happened? According to a report in Hindustan Times, the accident initially involved just two vehicles. A crowd gathered at the flyover after an SUV car rammed into a dumper from behind. Watch: India: High vegetable prices affect consumer spending × It led to chaos on the road. Shortly thereafter, a speeding luxury car ploughed into the crowd, resulting in more casualties. The luxury car was running at over 100 kmph. PTI news agency reported that those among the dead hailed from Botad and Surendranagar. Also read: Indian government eases COVID-19 testing rules for international travellers “As of now nine persons have been declared dead and 13 persons are injured in the accident that occurred at 1 am. It was a hit and run caused by a Jaguar car,” a police source was quoted as saying by the Indian Express newspaper. This is a developing story. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India: Hit-and-run accident in Ahmedabad leaves nine dead, 13 injured

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<p>Two people were killed on Wednesday following anti-government protests in&nbsp;<strong>Kenya</strong>, a hospital official said, as the interior ministry announced the arrest of over 300 others in connection with the demonstrations.</p>

<p>Veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga has held several rounds of protests since March against the government, alarming the international community which has joined calls for a political solution after earlier demonstrations left more than a dozen dead.</p>

<p>Clashes between police and protesters led to two deaths in the opposition bastion of Kisumu, said George Rae, CEO of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga hospital.</p>

<p>"There are two bodies recorded at the morgue with gunshot wounds," he told AFP by telephone, adding that 14 others were hospitalised.</p>

<p>Odinga's Azimio alliance has vowed to stage three straight days of protests this week, and on Wednesday evening urged "Kenyans to come out in an even bigger way tomorrow".</p>

<p>Although Wednesday's protests in Nairobi and other towns appeared to be more muted than earlier demonstrations, with fewer reports of casualties resulting from sporadic clashes, Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki said the authorities had recorded many cases of vandalism and looting.</p>

<p>"More than 300 people have been arrested across the country and will be charged with various crimes, including looting, malicious damage of property, arson, robbery with violence, assaulting law enforcers," Kindiki said.</p>

<p>Schools and shops were closed in Nairobi, Kisumu and the port city of Mombasa, with small groups of mostly young men setting fire to tyres and engaging in running battles with police.</p>

<p>Police fired tear gas at scattered groups of demonstrators in Nairobi's Kibera slum and the towns of Homa Bay, Kisii and Migori, all Odinga strongholds, while offices in the capital's business district were largely shuttered.</p>

<h2>&nbsp;'Wrong direction'</h2>

<p>It is the third time this month that Odinga has staged mass rallies against a government he says is illegitimate and responsible for a cost-of-living crisis.</p>

<p>The government in turn has accused the opposition of derailing efforts to improve the economy and fomenting chaos.</p>

<p>"We do not want a country of violence or fighting or destruction of property," President William Ruto said during a visit to the Rift Valley town of Kericho.</p>

<p>"The police must make sure they are firm on criminals, gangs and anarchists and all the people who want to cause mayhem."</p>

<p>The use by police of live rounds and tear gas to disperse stone-throwing protesters has drawn accusations of heavy-handedness from civil groups.</p>

<p>Last week police arrested 312 people who were accused of directly or indirectly planning, orchestrating or financing the protests, including a member of parliament who was later released.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The demonstrations have divided Kenyans, who are struggling to cope with high inflation and a jobs crisis.</p>

<p>Fred Onzere, a 47-year-old unemployed man, told AFP&nbsp;<strong>Kenya</strong>&nbsp;was "going in the wrong direction" and said he supported the protests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Others said the shutdowns would only worsen the economic problems.</p>

<p>"Even if we are (employed)... we can't work," said businessman Peter Kajinji, 62.</p>

<p>"It's better for our leaders to sit together, talk and solve this problem," he told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>'Resolve differences'</h2>

<p>Ruto, a former deputy president, rose to the top job after winning a narrow election victory last August over Odinga, who claimed the vote was "stolen".</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Kenya becomes the dumping ground for textile waste</strong></p>

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<p>But he took office as&nbsp;<strong>Kenya</strong>'s economy reeled from debt and soaring inflation, and was criticised for raising taxes despite campaigning to bring prices down.</p>

<p><strong>Kenya</strong>&nbsp;is seen as a stable democracy in the often-turbulent East Africa region, and 13 western nations issued a joint statement on Tuesday expressing concern over the recent violence.</p>

<p>"We... urge all parties to table their concerns through a meaningful dialogue and resolve their differences peacefully to build the nation together, ensuring no further loss of life," the foreign missions said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kenya-protesters-clash-with-police-as-three-day-protest-over-tax-hikes-begins-over-300-arrested-617599"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Kenya: Protesters clash with police as three-day protest over tax hikes begins; over 300 arrested</strong></a></p>

<p>Odinga called off anti-government demonstrations in April and May after Ruto agreed to dialogue, but the talks broke down.</p>

<p>Opposition protests following Odinga's election loss in 2017 continued until he brokered a surprise pact with his erstwhile foe, former president Uhuru Kenyatta, that became known as "the handshake".</p>

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Two people were killed on Wednesday following anti-government protests in Kenya, a hospital official said, as the interior ministry announced the arrest of over 300 others in connection with the demonstrations.

Two people were killed on Wednesday following anti-government protests in Kenya, a hospital official said, as the interior ministry announced the arrest of over 300 others in connection with the demonstrations. Veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga has held several rounds of protests since March against the government, alarming the international community which has joined calls for a political solution after earlier demonstrations left more than a dozen dead. Clashes between police and protesters led to two deaths in the opposition bastion of Kisumu, said George Rae, CEO of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga hospital. "There are two bodies recorded at the morgue with gunshot wounds," he told AFP by telephone, adding that 14 others were hospitalised. Odinga's Azimio alliance has vowed to stage three straight days of protests this week, and on Wednesday evening urged "Kenyans to come out in an even bigger way tomorrow". Although Wednesday's protests in Nairobi and other towns appeared to be more muted than earlier demonstrations, with fewer reports of casualties resulting from sporadic clashes, Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki said the authorities had recorded many cases of vandalism and looting. "More than 300 people have been arrested across the country and will be charged with various crimes, including looting, malicious damage of property, arson, robbery with violence, assaulting law enforcers," Kindiki said. Schools and shops were closed in Nairobi, Kisumu and the port city of Mombasa, with small groups of mostly young men setting fire to tyres and engaging in running battles with police. Police fired tear gas at scattered groups of demonstrators in Nairobi's Kibera slum and the towns of Homa Bay, Kisii and Migori, all Odinga strongholds, while offices in the capital's business district were largely shuttered. 'Wrong direction' It is the third time this month that Odinga has staged mass rallies against a government he says is illegitimate and responsible for a cost-of-living crisis. The government in turn has accused the opposition of derailing efforts to improve the economy and fomenting chaos. "We do not want a country of violence or fighting or destruction of property," President William Ruto said during a visit to the Rift Valley town of Kericho. "The police must make sure they are firm on criminals, gangs and anarchists and all the people who want to cause mayhem." The use by police of live rounds and tear gas to disperse stone-throwing protesters has drawn accusations of heavy-handedness from civil groups. Last week police arrested 312 people who were accused of directly or indirectly planning, orchestrating or financing the protests, including a member of parliament who was later released. The demonstrations have divided Kenyans, who are struggling to cope with high inflation and a jobs crisis. Fred Onzere, a 47-year-old unemployed man, told AFP Kenya was "going in the wrong direction" and said he supported the protests. Others said the shutdowns would only worsen the economic problems. "Even if we are (employed)... we can't work," said businessman Peter Kajinji, 62. "It's better for our leaders to sit together, talk and solve this problem," he told AFP. 'Resolve differences' Ruto, a former deputy president, rose to the top job after winning a narrow election victory last August over Odinga, who claimed the vote was "stolen". Watch: Kenya becomes the dumping ground for textile waste × But he took office as Kenya's economy reeled from debt and soaring inflation, and was criticised for raising taxes despite campaigning to bring prices down. Kenya is seen as a stable democracy in the often-turbulent East Africa region, and 13 western nations issued a joint statement on Tuesday expressing concern over the recent violence. "We... urge all parties to table their concerns through a meaningful dialogue and resolve their differences peacefully to build the nation together, ensuring no further loss of life," the foreign missions said. Also read: Kenya: Protesters clash with police as three-day protest over tax hikes begins; over 300 arrested Odinga called off anti-government demonstrations in April and May after Ruto agreed to dialogue, but the talks broke down. Opposition protests following Odinga's election loss in 2017 continued until he brokered a surprise pact with his erstwhile foe, former president Uhuru Kenyatta, that became known as "the handshake". WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Kenya: Two killed, over 300 arrested as govt cracks down on massive demonstrations

<p>A strong explosion rocked a busy street in central Johannesburg Wednesday, leaving the ground ripped, cars overturned and at least 41 people injured. Some eyewitnesses said they heard a loud bang at the time of the blast and experienced tremors.</p>

<p>The cause of the explosion is not clear yet but South African authorities initially blamed underground gas pipelines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Premier of the Gauteng province Panyaza Lesufi said in a statement it was a “miracle” that there were no fatalities.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Prayers please 🙏<br />
Massive explosion rocked Joburg, Johannesburg CBD, earlier, leaving devastation in its wake. It was like an earthquake, but was not. Apparently just a total collapse of infrastructure. Not sure what the reasons are. <a href="https://t.co/Nv8EC31d2S">pic.twitter.com/Nv8EC31d2S</a></p>
— JG (Johan) van Zyl ✍✝️ (@JGvanZyl_ZA) <a href="https://twitter.com/JGvanZyl_ZA/status/1681708564702691333?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Lesufi also said that people living in nearby buildings were complaining of constant headaches, chest pains and breathing difficulties.</p>

<p>Emergency services said the situation was under control. Officials from the Egoli Gas company were also at the scene and cooperating with authorities to ensure all gas lines were closed.</p>

<h2>'Highly unlikely'&nbsp;the pipelines caused the explosion&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Egoli Gas, following the preliminary investigation, said that it was highly unlikely that the underground pipelines caused the explosion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;BRICS Summit 2023: South Africa obliged to arrest Putin if he lands in the country</strong></p>

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<p>"Our network has experienced no pressure loss, which indicates the gas pipelines are intact. Our customers in the area continue to receive gas uninterrupted," the company said.</p>

<h2><strong>Premier Lesufi gives a detailed account of the events</strong></h2>

<p>The premier of Gauteng, which includes Johannesburg and Pretoria, said the authorities were investigating ‘strategic areas’ to find out the cause of the accident. Experts would “get the full view and advise us”, Lesufi said, adding, “The damage is extensive. It’s a bad situation... It was peak time.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sign-language-becomes-the-12th-official-language-of-south-africa-617588"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Sign language becomes the 12th official language of South Africa</strong></a></p>

<p>He also added that authorities would release more information once certain things are confirmed. "They are of the view that there is something that needs to be confirmed before they can release additional information, but they are also trying very hard to check neighbouring buildings, and that is why they are asking us to leave the area because the impact at this present moment is not determined," Lesufi said.</p>

<h2><strong>Damage to nearby buildings</strong></h2>

<p>The premier told the media that it was not clear whether or not nearby buildings faced the danger of collapsing.&nbsp;"It is indeed a bad situation, the damage is extensive, but it is very difficult to calculate now," he said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>People were being evacuated from the area but Lesufi could not immediately confirm how many people had been moved to safe locations.</p>

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A strong explosion rocked a busy street in central Johannesburg Wednesday, leaving the ground ripped, cars overturned and at least 41 people injured. Some eyewitnesses said they heard a loud bang at the time of the blast and experienced tremors.

A strong explosion rocked a busy street in central Johannesburg Wednesday, leaving the ground ripped, cars overturned and at least 41 people injured. Some eyewitnesses said they heard a loud bang at the time of the blast and experienced tremors. The cause of the explosion is not clear yet but South African authorities initially blamed underground gas pipelines. Premier of the Gauteng province Panyaza Lesufi said in a statement it was a “miracle” that there were no fatalities. Prayers please 🙏 Massive explosion rocked Joburg, Johannesburg CBD, earlier, leaving devastation in its wake. It was like an earthquake, but was not. Apparently just a total collapse of infrastructure. Not sure what the reasons are. pic.twitter.com/Nv8EC31d2S — JG (Johan) van Zyl ✍✝️ (@JGvanZyl_ZA) July 19, 2023 × Lesufi also said that people living in nearby buildings were complaining of constant headaches, chest pains and breathing difficulties. Emergency services said the situation was under control. Officials from the Egoli Gas company were also at the scene and cooperating with authorities to ensure all gas lines were closed. 'Highly unlikely' the pipelines caused the explosion Egoli Gas, following the preliminary investigation, said that it was highly unlikely that the underground pipelines caused the explosion. Watch: BRICS Summit 2023: South Africa obliged to arrest Putin if he lands in the country × "Our network has experienced no pressure loss, which indicates the gas pipelines are intact. Our customers in the area continue to receive gas uninterrupted," the company said. Premier Lesufi gives a detailed account of the events The premier of Gauteng, which includes Johannesburg and Pretoria, said the authorities were investigating ‘strategic areas’ to find out the cause of the accident. Experts would “get the full view and advise us”, Lesufi said, adding, “The damage is extensive. It’s a bad situation... It was peak time.” Also read: Sign language becomes the 12th official language of South Africa He also added that authorities would release more information once certain things are confirmed. "They are of the view that there is something that needs to be confirmed before they can release additional information, but they are also trying very hard to check neighbouring buildings, and that is why they are asking us to leave the area because the impact at this present moment is not determined," Lesufi said. Damage to nearby buildings The premier told the media that it was not clear whether or not nearby buildings faced the danger of collapsing. "It is indeed a bad situation, the damage is extensive, but it is very difficult to calculate now," he said. People were being evacuated from the area but Lesufi could not immediately confirm how many people had been moved to safe locations. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Watch: Strong blast in central Johannesburg leaves 41 injured, cause remains mystery

<p>Massive protests erupted in India’s violence-hit Manipur state on Friday after a disturbing video showing two women being paraded naked went viral on social media. Public demonstrations were held through the streets of Churachandpur, fanning fresh ethnic tensions.</p>

<p>The video, which is said to be two months old, went viral on the internet on Wednesday, attracting condemnation from public, top political leaders and even the Supreme Court of India.</p>

<p>The incident is from May 4, where three women of a family were sexually assaulted, one of them gang-raped and her father and brother killed by a mob of about 1000 men.</p>

<h2><strong>Mastermind arrested, say cops</strong></h2>

<p>Manipur Police said Thursday they had detained a man visible in the 26-second footage, from Thoubal district. As per the officials, the person is believed to be the mastermind of&nbsp;the incident.</p>

<p>Chief Minister of the state, N. Biren Singh, who hails from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), assured the enraged public that strict action will be taken against those involved in the crime. He also suggested capital punishment for the accused to ensure swift justice.</p>

<p>“My heart goes out to the two women who were subjected to a deeply disrespectful and inhuman act," the BJP leader tweeted on Thursday.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi condemns the act</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday also spoke about the sexual atrocities in Manipur on Thursday before the beginning of the Monsoon session of the Indian Parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Manipur Violence: Two women paraded naked by a group of men</strong></p>

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<p>“This a shameful incident for any society…who did this and who is responsible is another issue but this has put our nation to shame. I appeal to all chief minsters to tighten law and order. Whether it is Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh or Manipur...the issue of a woman's honour is above all politics,” he said while addressing the media.</p>

<h2><strong>What’s happening in Manipur?</strong></h2>

<p>Manipur has been marred by escalating violence since&nbsp;May 3, as the Kuki and Naga communities took to the streets in protest against an order of the High Court that urged the state government to grant the Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Meitei community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This request aimed to enable land acquisition in the hilly regions, a privilege reserved exclusively for ST communities.<br />
<br />
The demand for ST status, however, ignited tensions between various communities, leading to a wave of protests across the region. As conflicting sentiments collided, the strife escalated into violence, further exacerbating existing social and political fault lines in Manipur.</p>

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Massive protests erupted in India’s violence-hit Manipur state on Friday after a disturbing video showing two women being paraded naked went viral on social media.

Massive protests erupted in India’s violence-hit Manipur state on Friday after a disturbing video showing two women being paraded naked went viral on social media. Public demonstrations were held through the streets of Churachandpur, fanning fresh ethnic tensions. The video, which is said to be two months old, went viral on the internet on Wednesday, attracting condemnation from public, top political leaders and even the Supreme Court of India. The incident is from May 4, where three women of a family were sexually assaulted, one of them gang-raped and her father and brother killed by a mob of about 1000 men. Mastermind arrested, say cops Manipur Police said Thursday they had detained a man visible in the 26-second footage, from Thoubal district. As per the officials, the person is believed to be the mastermind of the incident. Chief Minister of the state, N. Biren Singh, who hails from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), assured the enraged public that strict action will be taken against those involved in the crime. He also suggested capital punishment for the accused to ensure swift justice. “My heart goes out to the two women who were subjected to a deeply disrespectful and inhuman act," the BJP leader tweeted on Thursday. PM Modi condemns the act Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday also spoke about the sexual atrocities in Manipur on Thursday before the beginning of the Monsoon session of the Indian Parliament. Watch: Manipur Violence: Two women paraded naked by a group of men × “This a shameful incident for any society…who did this and who is responsible is another issue but this has put our nation to shame. I appeal to all chief minsters to tighten law and order. Whether it is Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh or Manipur...the issue of a woman's honour is above all politics,” he said while addressing the media. What’s happening in Manipur? Manipur has been marred by escalating violence since May 3, as the Kuki and Naga communities took to the streets in protest against an order of the High Court that urged the state government to grant the Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to the Meitei community. This request aimed to enable land acquisition in the hilly regions, a privilege reserved exclusively for ST communities. The demand for ST status, however, ignited tensions between various communities, leading to a wave of protests across the region. As conflicting sentiments collided, the strife escalated into violence, further exacerbating existing social and political fault lines in Manipur. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India: Massive protests erupt in Manipur after disturbing video goes viral

<p>Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe embarked on a two-day visit to India on Thursday (July 20), his first since taking office last year after a tumultuous period that saw the island nation's economy tank, and protests erupt on its streets leading to ouster of former leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wickremesinghe is visiting India at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said a statement by Sri Lankan foreign ministry. It marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of official diplomatic ties between the two South Asian neighbours.</p>

<p>“The visit will reinforce the longstanding friendship between the two countries and explore avenues for enhanced connectivity and mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors,” a statement from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said.</p>

<h2><strong>Sri Lanka seeks 'innocent passage</strong>'</h2>

<p>Of several items on the table during Wickremesinghe’s visit to New Delhi, one would be of securing an “innocent passage” through Indian waters for fishermen back home.</p>

<p>Media reports claim a fresh series of diplomatic engagements could take place between New Delhi and Colombo aimed at allowing Sri Lankan fishermen to travel through India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to enter the Arabian Sea.</p>

<p>The Indian route will help Lankan fishermen cut down the total distance by 400 nautical miles. As of now, they have to take a longer route via Negambo, Dikovita, Beruwala and Matara around the Maldives.</p>

<p>If they try to enter Indian waters unlawfully on their way to the Arabian Sea, they often end up getting detained by Indian Coast Guard.&nbsp;</p>
<img alt="Innocent passage" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="79799a5f-3cc5-42d1-a824-29fc5a66f7d3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/image_e8097b8ed5.jpg" />
<p>The matter is up for discussion during Wickremesinghe’s bilateral engagements with Indian leaders. He is scheduled to meet his Indian counterpart, Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Indian PM Modi.</p>

<p>“It will be discussed when President Ranil Wickremesinghe visits New Delhi,” Lanka’s Fisheries Minister Douglas Devananda was quoted as saying by Daily Mirror, the country’s daily newspaper.</p>

<h2><strong>Capitalising on goodwill earned during last year</strong></h2>

<p>The bilateral ties between India and Sri Lanka have gotten stronger following last year’s economic turmoil that induced massive instability, both economic and political, in the South Asian island nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sri Lanka declared its first-ever credit default in mid-April last year, prompting India to extend a $4 billion financial assistance. New Delhi also offered dedicated credit lines for fuel and essential items.</p>

<p>Wickremesinghe took charge of the cash-strapped country as a consensus candidate, after the ouster of Gotabaya Rajapaksa in the people’s uprising in July.</p>

<p>In March this year, Sri Lanka also secured a $2.9 billion package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) spanning through the next four years provided that some conditions, earlier agreed upon by the Sri Lankan leadership, are met.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Sri Lanka’s concerns over alleged unlawful fishing by Indian fishermen</h2>

<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Wickremesinghe is also expected to bring up the issue of alleged unlawful fishing in Lankan waters by Indian fishermen during his talks in New Delhi.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Sri Lanka to consider trade in Indian rupee</strong></p>

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<p>“It (unlawful fishing) continues unabated and the government is trying to resolve it through diplomatic means,” minister Douglas said.</p>

<p>“We are planning to get it resolved through diplomatic means. When President Wickremesinghe visits New Delhi, he is planning to discuss it,” he said.</p>

<p>The Lankan minister also vowed to address the concerns of politicians in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu regarding problems being created by the Sri Lankan Navy for Indian fishermen. “In Tamil Nadu, perception is that the Sri Lankan Navy creates problems for their fishermen,” he said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“We are planning to arrange a visit by a group of Tamil MPs from the north to Tamil Nadu to brief the chief minister, the opposition leader and others concerned that bottom trawling by their fishermen has affected the livelihood of our fishermen. Otherwise, it is not an issue involving the Sri Lankan Navy and Tamil Nadu fishermen,” he told the media.</p>

<h2><strong>Sri Lanka on using the Indian rupee in international trade</strong></h2>

<p>Last week, Wickremesinghe, who is also Lanka’s finance minister, said his nation had no problem in using the Indian rupee as much as the US dollar in international trade.</p>

<p>“We’ll have to figure out how to go about it. So that is what we must do. We must become more open to the outside world,” he said.</p>

<p>However, analysts believe that the success of the rupee trading regime depends on the willingness of Indian exporters to accept the Indian currency.</p>

<h2><strong>Strong maritime defence ties between India and Sri Lanka</strong></h2>

<p>India-Sri Lanka maritime defence ties have strengthened over the past few months. Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera in May visited New Delhi to discuss issues of mutual interest and ways to enhance existing bilateral relations between the defence forces.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankan-parliament-clears-anti-corruption-bill-without-a-vote-617518"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Sri Lankan parliament passes anti-corruption bill, fulfills IMF condition</strong></a></p>

<p>The visit came amid China’s increasing forays in the Indian Ocean region. Both nations have ramped up their bilateral maritime engagements in accordance with India's 'Neighbourhood First Policy' and the maritime outlook of 'Security and Growth for All in Region.'</p>

<p>Indian and Lankan warships also regularly make port calls at each other’s ports, indicating the enhanced level of partnership and mutual trust in both navies.</p>

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Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe embarked on a two-day visit to India on Thursday (July 20), his first since taking office last year after a tumultuous period that saw the island nation's economy tank, and protests erupt on its streets leading to ouster of former leaders.

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe embarked on a two-day visit to India on Thursday (July 20), his first since taking office last year after a tumultuous period that saw the island nation's economy tank, and protests erupt on its streets leading to ouster of former leaders. Wickremesinghe is visiting India at the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said a statement by Sri Lankan foreign ministry. It marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of official diplomatic ties between the two South Asian neighbours. “The visit will reinforce the longstanding friendship between the two countries and explore avenues for enhanced connectivity and mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors,” a statement from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said. Sri Lanka seeks 'innocent passage' Of several items on the table during Wickremesinghe’s visit to New Delhi, one would be of securing an “innocent passage” through Indian waters for fishermen back home. Media reports claim a fresh series of diplomatic engagements could take place between New Delhi and Colombo aimed at allowing Sri Lankan fishermen to travel through India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to enter the Arabian Sea. The Indian route will help Lankan fishermen cut down the total distance by 400 nautical miles. As of now, they have to take a longer route via Negambo, Dikovita, Beruwala and Matara around the Maldives. If they try to enter Indian waters unlawfully on their way to the Arabian Sea, they often end up getting detained by Indian Coast Guard. The matter is up for discussion during Wickremesinghe’s bilateral engagements with Indian leaders. He is scheduled to meet his Indian counterpart, Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Indian PM Modi. “It will be discussed when President Ranil Wickremesinghe visits New Delhi,” Lanka’s Fisheries Minister Douglas Devananda was quoted as saying by Daily Mirror, the country’s daily newspaper. Capitalising on goodwill earned during last year The bilateral ties between India and Sri Lanka have gotten stronger following last year’s economic turmoil that induced massive instability, both economic and political, in the South Asian island nation. Sri Lanka declared its first-ever credit default in mid-April last year, prompting India to extend a $4 billion financial assistance. New Delhi also offered dedicated credit lines for fuel and essential items. Wickremesinghe took charge of the cash-strapped country as a consensus candidate, after the ouster of Gotabaya Rajapaksa in the people’s uprising in July. In March this year, Sri Lanka also secured a $2.9 billion package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) spanning through the next four years provided that some conditions, earlier agreed upon by the Sri Lankan leadership, are met. Sri Lanka’s concerns over alleged unlawful fishing by Indian fishermen Wickremesinghe is also expected to bring up the issue of alleged unlawful fishing in Lankan waters by Indian fishermen during his talks in New Delhi. Watch: Sri Lanka to consider trade in Indian rupee × “It (unlawful fishing) continues unabated and the government is trying to resolve it through diplomatic means,” minister Douglas said. “We are planning to get it resolved through diplomatic means. When President Wickremesinghe visits New Delhi, he is planning to discuss it,” he said. The Lankan minister also vowed to address the concerns of politicians in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu regarding problems being created by the Sri Lankan Navy for Indian fishermen. “In Tamil Nadu, perception is that the Sri Lankan Navy creates problems for their fishermen,” he said. “We are planning to arrange a visit by a group of Tamil MPs from the north to Tamil Nadu to brief the chief minister, the opposition leader and others concerned that bottom trawling by their fishermen has affected the livelihood of our fishermen. Otherwise, it is not an issue involving the Sri Lankan Navy and Tamil Nadu fishermen,” he told the media. Sri Lanka on using the Indian rupee in international trade Last week, Wickremesinghe, who is also Lanka’s finance minister, said his nation had no problem in using the Indian rupee as much as the US dollar in international trade. “We’ll have to figure out how to go about it. So that is what we must do. We must become more open to the outside world,” he said. However, analysts believe that the success of the rupee trading regime depends on the willingness of Indian exporters to accept the Indian currency. Strong maritime defence ties between India and Sri Lanka India-Sri Lanka maritime defence ties have strengthened over the past few months. Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera in May visited New Delhi to discuss issues of mutual interest and ways to enhance existing bilateral relations between the defence forces. Also read: Sri Lankan parliament passes anti-corruption bill, fulfills IMF condition The visit came amid China’s increasing forays in the Indian Ocean region. Both nations have ramped up their bilateral maritime engagements in accordance with India's 'Neighbourhood First Policy' and the maritime outlook of 'Security and Growth for All in Region.' Indian and Lankan warships also regularly make port calls at each other’s ports, indicating the enhanced level of partnership and mutual trust in both navies. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Explained | Sri Lanka prez in India: What is ‘Innocent Passage’, and other issues on agenda?

<p>The majestic woolly mammoth went extinct over 4,000 years ago,&nbsp;however, they continue to captivate the imaginations of biologists and enthusiasts to date.&nbsp;</p>

<p>What if modern science manages to pull them back to Earth using Artificial Intelligence and elephant behaviour?</p>

<p>Fueling this fascination is a daring ambition by the US biotech startup Colossal, known as the "de-extinction company," which has set its sights on bringing back the woolly mammoth through genetic engineering.</p>

<p>The plan is to create a hybrid of the Asian elephant and the mammoth, which will be introduced to the Arctic tundra. While the project has received substantial financial backing, it has also attracted both curiosity and scientific scepticism.</p>

<h2><strong>Lots of challenges to overcome</strong></h2>

<p>To achieve success, Colossal must overcome numerous challenges, including crafting the animal's genetic sequence, successfully fertilising an egg, and then nurturing the hybrid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the real test lies beyond birth, as scientists grapple with the question of how these creatures will thrive in the wild—a puzzle that may take a lifetime or more to solve.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To address this, Colossal is seeking guidance from other animals, specifically a group of elephants in Botswana.</p>

<h2><strong>Startup joins hands with an elephant&nbsp;organisation</strong></h2>

<p>The startup has joined forces with Elephant Havens, a wildlife foundation situated in the Okavango Delta, devoted to caring for orphaned elephants.</p>

<p>Elephant Havens, founded in 2017, will collaborate extensively with Colossal to gather data using artificial intelligence (AI) to analyse the elephants' behaviour, coupled with genomic data for each elephant.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;This World | Will artificial intelligence be the end of humanity?</strong></p>

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<p>“We’ll be able to mix the art of the elephant handlers with the science of today,” said Matt James, chief animal officer at Colossal.</p>

<p>Colossal aims to combine the expertise of Elephant Havens with AI modelling and genetic data to deepen their understanding of elephant behaviour. This knowledge will be instrumental in the eventual rewilding of the woolly mammoth hybrids.</p>

<h2><strong>How crucial is AI in the de-extinction process?</strong></h2>

<p>AI plays a crucial role in this animal research endeavour. Colossal's founder, Ben Lamm, acknowledges, “Some of these technologies we take for granted in corporate America or in defence could be directly applied and have a meaningful impact on conservation,” he said. “These tools aren’t in the hands of the people that really need them,” he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ai-nuclear-weapon-of-software-wion-speaks-to-deepai-founder-kevin-baragona-602187"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;AI is the 'nuclear weapon of software'</strong></a></p>

<p>In the 'spirit of collaboration and contribution to wildlife conservation', Colossal plans to share its scientific breakthroughs with partners working on conservation efforts. By offering their technologies and expertise for free, they claim to make a meaningful difference in elephant conservation within the next five to ten years.</p>

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The majestic woolly mammoth went extinct over 4,000 years ago, however, they continue to captivate the imaginations of biologists and enthusiasts to date. What if modern science manages to pull them back to Earth using Artificial Intelligence and elephant behaviour?

The majestic woolly mammoth went extinct over 4,000 years ago, however, they continue to captivate the imaginations of biologists and enthusiasts to date. What if modern science manages to pull them back to Earth using Artificial Intelligence and elephant behaviour? Fueling this fascination is a daring ambition by the US biotech startup Colossal, known as the "de-extinction company," which has set its sights on bringing back the woolly mammoth through genetic engineering. The plan is to create a hybrid of the Asian elephant and the mammoth, which will be introduced to the Arctic tundra. While the project has received substantial financial backing, it has also attracted both curiosity and scientific scepticism. Lots of challenges to overcome To achieve success, Colossal must overcome numerous challenges, including crafting the animal's genetic sequence, successfully fertilising an egg, and then nurturing the hybrid. However, the real test lies beyond birth, as scientists grapple with the question of how these creatures will thrive in the wild—a puzzle that may take a lifetime or more to solve. To address this, Colossal is seeking guidance from other animals, specifically a group of elephants in Botswana. Startup joins hands with an elephant organisation The startup has joined forces with Elephant Havens, a wildlife foundation situated in the Okavango Delta, devoted to caring for orphaned elephants. Elephant Havens, founded in 2017, will collaborate extensively with Colossal to gather data using artificial intelligence (AI) to analyse the elephants' behaviour, coupled with genomic data for each elephant. Watch: This World | Will artificial intelligence be the end of humanity? × “We’ll be able to mix the art of the elephant handlers with the science of today,” said Matt James, chief animal officer at Colossal. Colossal aims to combine the expertise of Elephant Havens with AI modelling and genetic data to deepen their understanding of elephant behaviour. This knowledge will be instrumental in the eventual rewilding of the woolly mammoth hybrids. How crucial is AI in the de-extinction process? AI plays a crucial role in this animal research endeavour. Colossal's founder, Ben Lamm, acknowledges, “Some of these technologies we take for granted in corporate America or in defence could be directly applied and have a meaningful impact on conservation,” he said. “These tools aren’t in the hands of the people that really need them,” he added. Also read: AI is the 'nuclear weapon of software' In the 'spirit of collaboration and contribution to wildlife conservation', Colossal plans to share its scientific breakthroughs with partners working on conservation efforts. By offering their technologies and expertise for free, they claim to make a meaningful difference in elephant conservation within the next five to ten years. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Woolly mammoth went extinct 4,000 years ago. Here's how a US startup plans to revive them

<p>A man in Nigeria turned blind for a short period after forcing himself to cry for a week in an attempt to break a Guinness World Record. The man also ended up having a swollen face, puffed eyes and a severe headache.</p>

<p>The man, named Tembu Ebere, is a comedian on Nigerian social media. Before embarking on the daring endeavour, Ebere reportedly promoted his ‘cry campaign’ on TikTok.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In one of his posts, he wrote, “Send me your troubles, I'll cry for you."</p>

<p>It was not immediately clear what exactly caused the temporary blindness but it might be linked to severe headaches and a build-up of pressure in the eyes.</p>

<h2><strong>Attempt not acknowledged by Guinness World Record</strong></h2>

<p>His daring challenge, which took a heavy toll on his health and wellness, will not be acknowledged because Ebere is yet to formally join Guinness World Record. Thus, it was an unofficial attempt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ebere also said that he had to re-strategise his wailing due to the heavy physical and emotional toll. “I had to re-strategise and reduce my wailing," he told the media.</p>

<p>A four-day chef cooking extravaganza in Nigeria has captured the attention of the public, igniting a wave of ambitious record attempts, according to the official records website.</p>

<h2><strong>Flurry of record attempts in Nigeria</strong></h2>

<p>A flurry of record attempts has swept through the country since a four-day chef cooking marathon was held recently. Hilda Baci generated massive interest in Kenya after cooking continuously for 100 hours in a successful attempt to break the Guinness World Record.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;14% Nigerian women have experienced sexual violence: Report</strong></p>

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<p>Such was the craze among the public that the Guinness World Records website itself experienced two days of outage.</p>

<p>This surge of enthusiasm to break and set records&nbsp;has not been limited to Hilda Baci's culinary marathon but&nbsp;has spread like wildfire, inspiring others to pursue unique and daring records.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among the contenders is a woman attempting to fry the largest number of snails, a dedicated masseuse who collapsed while striving to achieve the longest non-stop massage, and another woman aiming to fry an unprecedented quantity of 'puff-puffs,' a beloved doughnut-like snack.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thieves-steal-runway-lights-from-nigerias-busiest-airport-months-after-installation-615017"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Thieves steal runway lights from Nigeria’s busiest airport months after installation</strong></a></p>

<p>Similarly, John Obot has set his sights on breaking the record for the longest time reading aloud without pause, with a goal of surpassing the current record of 124 hours set last year by Rysbai Isakov of Kyrgyzstan. His noble motivation is to promote a culture of reading in Nigeria.</p>

<h2><strong>Warning bells sounded</strong></h2>

<p>However, while these audacious record-breaking attempts have become a trend, some valid concerns have also emerged.&nbsp;The officials at Guinness World Records have urged Nigerians to exercise caution and prioritise safety above all.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Please, enough of the record-a-thons," Guinness World Records stated on social media.</p>

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A man in Nigeria turned blind for a short period after forcing himself to cry for a week in an attempt to break a Guinness World Record. The man also ended up having a swollen face, puffed eyes and a severe headache.

A man in Nigeria turned blind for a short period after forcing himself to cry for a week in an attempt to break a Guinness World Record. The man also ended up having a swollen face, puffed eyes and a severe headache. The man, named Tembu Ebere, is a comedian on Nigerian social media. Before embarking on the daring endeavour, Ebere reportedly promoted his ‘cry campaign’ on TikTok. In one of his posts, he wrote, “Send me your troubles, I'll cry for you." It was not immediately clear what exactly caused the temporary blindness but it might be linked to severe headaches and a build-up of pressure in the eyes. Attempt not acknowledged by Guinness World Record His daring challenge, which took a heavy toll on his health and wellness, will not be acknowledged because Ebere is yet to formally join Guinness World Record. Thus, it was an unofficial attempt. Ebere also said that he had to re-strategise his wailing due to the heavy physical and emotional toll. “I had to re-strategise and reduce my wailing," he told the media. A four-day chef cooking extravaganza in Nigeria has captured the attention of the public, igniting a wave of ambitious record attempts, according to the official records website. Flurry of record attempts in Nigeria A flurry of record attempts has swept through the country since a four-day chef cooking marathon was held recently. Hilda Baci generated massive interest in Kenya after cooking continuously for 100 hours in a successful attempt to break the Guinness World Record. Watch: 14% Nigerian women have experienced sexual violence: Report × Such was the craze among the public that the Guinness World Records website itself experienced two days of outage. This surge of enthusiasm to break and set records has not been limited to Hilda Baci's culinary marathon but has spread like wildfire, inspiring others to pursue unique and daring records. Among the contenders is a woman attempting to fry the largest number of snails, a dedicated masseuse who collapsed while striving to achieve the longest non-stop massage, and another woman aiming to fry an unprecedented quantity of 'puff-puffs,' a beloved doughnut-like snack. Also read: Thieves steal runway lights from Nigeria’s busiest airport months after installation Similarly, John Obot has set his sights on breaking the record for the longest time reading aloud without pause, with a goal of surpassing the current record of 124 hours set last year by Rysbai Isakov of Kyrgyzstan. His noble motivation is to promote a culture of reading in Nigeria. Warning bells sounded However, while these audacious record-breaking attempts have become a trend, some valid concerns have also emerged. The officials at Guinness World Records have urged Nigerians to exercise caution and prioritise safety above all. "Please, enough of the record-a-thons," Guinness World Records stated on social media. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Nigerian man turns blind after forcing himself to cry for a week

Agni-V is an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) with a range of over 5,000 kilometres. It is capable of delivering a nuclear warhead and has the potential to reach targets in Asia, Europe, and parts of Africa. 

Prithvi-II is a tactical surface-to-surface ballistic missile. It has a range of around 350 kilometres and is capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads. 

BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by India and Russia. It is one of the fastest cruise missiles in the world, capable of flying at Mach 3 (three times the speed of sound). BrahMos has a range of around 300 kilometres. 

Agni-IV is an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) with a range of around 4,000 kilometres. It is designed to be launched from a road-mobile platform, making it highly mobile and difficult to detect. 

Shaurya is a hypersonic surface-to-surface missile. It is a canister-launched, road-mobile system that can deliver a payload up to a range of around 700 kilometres. 



Akash is a medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system primarily designed for air defence purposes. It can engage multiple aerial targets simultaneously at a range of up to 30 kilometres and altitudes of up to 18 kilometres. 

Nag is an anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) designed for use by India’s armoured forces. It is a third-generation fire-and-forget missile with a lock-on-before-launch capability. Nag has a range of up to 4 kilometres. 

Astra is an air-to-air missile (AAM) developed for the Indian Air Force. It is a beyond-visual-range missile capable of engaging targets at ranges of up to 110 kilometres. 

Here is the list of eight of India's deadliest missiles that Indian armed forces can use to decimate any enemy location within minutes.

8 Deadliest Missiles of India 

Henley & Partners has released its latest passport index for 2023 Q3, which is based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).


Singapore has the world's most powerful passport, with a visa-free score of 192. It simply means the citizens of the country can travel to 192 destinations without a prior visa.



The second spot is held collectively by these three nations. Their visa-free score is 190, which means their citizens have visa-free access to 190 countries.


 The third position is jointly held by Austria, Finland, France, Japan, Luxembourg, South Korea, and Sweden. Their citizens can travel to 189 destinations visa-free.

Ireland, the Netherlands, UK and Denmark share the fourth spot with a visa-free score of 188.

Belgium, Czech Republic, Malta, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, and Switzerland share the fifth rank, with an impressive visa-free score of 187.



The sixth spot is occupied by these nations. Citizens of Australia, Hungary and Poland can travel to 186 destinations either through visa-on-demand or visa-free altogether.


Canada and Greece share the seventh spot on the coveted list, with their citizens enjoying the privilege of visiting 185 destinations without the need to get a visa beforehand.

 The world's biggest economy US sits on the eighth spot on the latest index along with tiny Lithuania. Their respective visa-free score is 184.

Henley & Partners has released its latest passport index for 2023 Q3, which is based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

World's Most Powerful Passports in 2023

<p>A Ring doorbell camera in Gretna, Louisiana, has captured an intriguing event that has sparked widespread speculation about UFOs. In the early hours of July 14, at around 4:30 am (local time), the camera recorded a green fireball streaking brilliantly across the night sky, leaving residents in awe and questioning the possibility of extraterrestrial activity.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🛸Footage of a Green Fireball caught in Gretna, Louisiana. UFO?? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ufotwitter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ufotwitter</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/uaptwitter?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#uaptwitter</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UFOs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UFOs</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UFOSightings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UFOSightings</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAPs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAPs</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Disclosure?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Disclosure</a> <a href="https://t.co/nzoE8VtkMQ">pic.twitter.com/nzoE8VtkMQ</a></p>
— JVARTS The Fine Arts Club/Meta Homeboy/Alien Arts (@TheFineArtsClub) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheFineArtsClub/status/1681331868732628998?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Speculation market turns red hot</strong></h2>

<p>The captivating sight of the emerald light has fueled discussions and conspiracy theories among locals and social media users. While the American Meteorological Society attributes the event to a meteor, sceptics remain unconvinced.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Alternative theories have surfaced ranging from alien spacecraft to interdimensional beings, disregarding the conventional explanation.</p>

<h2><strong>29 such sightings recorded in recent times</strong></h2>

<p>This sighting is not an isolated incident. Recently, there have been similar reports of green fireballs in six different states, totalling 29 sightings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One notable case in Las Vegas involved a police officer's body camera capturing a suspected UFO streaking across the night sky.</p>

<p>The police officer’s camera tracked the object at about 11:50 pm on April 30, and its flash was also seen as far as Utah and California, according to the American Meteor Society. The incident led to further debate about the existence of extraterrestrial life.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Aliens saying `hello` through signals from centre of Milky Way</strong></p>

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<p>While some may find humour in the situation, others genuinely wonder about the potential for extraterrestrial encounters. One social media user jokingly likened the situation to UFOs stopping for a local delicacy, while others expressed their genuine fears. "That ain’t no meteor, that’s an alien ship warping into our space and time,” another user wrote.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/are-aliens-visiting-earth-harvard-professor-finds-ufo-debris-in-pacific-ocean-610846"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Are aliens visiting Earth? Harvard professor finds UFO debris in Pacific Ocean</strong></a></p>

<p>For now, the American Meteorological Society is investigating the video captured by the Ring camera to shed light on the mysterious green fireball.&nbsp;</p>

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A Ring doorbell camera in Gretna, Louisiana, has captured an intriguing event that has sparked widespread speculation about UFOs. In the early hours of July 14, at around 4:30 am (local time), the camera recorded a green fireball streaking brilliantly across the night sky, leaving residents in awe and questioning the possibility of extraterrestrial activity.

A Ring doorbell camera in Gretna, Louisiana, has captured an intriguing event that has sparked widespread speculation about UFOs. In the early hours of July 14, at around 4:30 am (local time), the camera recorded a green fireball streaking brilliantly across the night sky, leaving residents in awe and questioning the possibility of extraterrestrial activity. 🛸Footage of a Green Fireball caught in Gretna, Louisiana. UFO?? #ufotwitter #uaptwitter #UFOs #UFOSightings #UAPs #Disclosure pic.twitter.com/nzoE8VtkMQ — JVARTS The Fine Arts Club/Meta Homeboy/Alien Arts (@TheFineArtsClub) July 18, 2023 × Speculation market turns red hot The captivating sight of the emerald light has fueled discussions and conspiracy theories among locals and social media users. While the American Meteorological Society attributes the event to a meteor, sceptics remain unconvinced. Alternative theories have surfaced ranging from alien spacecraft to interdimensional beings, disregarding the conventional explanation. 29 such sightings recorded in recent times This sighting is not an isolated incident. Recently, there have been similar reports of green fireballs in six different states, totalling 29 sightings. One notable case in Las Vegas involved a police officer's body camera capturing a suspected UFO streaking across the night sky. The police officer’s camera tracked the object at about 11:50 pm on April 30, and its flash was also seen as far as Utah and California, according to the American Meteor Society. The incident led to further debate about the existence of extraterrestrial life. Watch: Aliens saying `hello` through signals from centre of Milky Way × While some may find humour in the situation, others genuinely wonder about the potential for extraterrestrial encounters. One social media user jokingly likened the situation to UFOs stopping for a local delicacy, while others expressed their genuine fears. "That ain’t no meteor, that’s an alien ship warping into our space and time,” another user wrote. Also read: Are aliens visiting Earth? Harvard professor finds UFO debris in Pacific Ocean For now, the American Meteorological Society is investigating the video captured by the Ring camera to shed light on the mysterious green fireball. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

'That's an alien ship': Green fireball in night sky sparks UFO panic in USA's Louisiana. Watch!

<p>Ford’s assembly plant in Kansas was evacuated on Tuesday (July 19) following reports that an active shooter had barricaded himself in the second-floor bathroom of the facility.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reuters reported no deaths, injuries or damages from the scene even as the Clay County sheriff’s office warned people that police officials were entering the plant to find the source of the threat.</p>

<h2><strong>The emergency call that sounded alarm at the Ford facility</strong></h2>

<p>At 5:20 PM local time, Ford’s safety and risk management team got a call from a man who reportedly claimed that he was armed with explosives, a rifle and a handgun. The man also claimed to have been barricaded in the second-floor bathroom in the paint area of the plant.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gun violence in US: At least 160 shooting incidents in 2023</strong></p>

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<p>This led the Ford management team to order the immediate evacuation of the assembly plant. All production lines were closed and the 7,250 employees who work at the plant were rushed to safety.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reuters reported the United Auto Workers (UAW) union as saying that it was closely monitoring the situation.</p>

<p>In a statement, the union said, “It's our understanding that one individual is heavily armed inside the assembly plant, but swift action by union and plant leadership cleared the building."</p>

<h2><strong>Could be a ‘swatting prank call’</strong></h2>

<p>According to the statement by the union, there was heavy police deployment in the facility. It also informed that no workers were harmed as the events unfolded.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/ford-plans-3200-job-cuts-in-europe-plans-to-move-some-work-to-the-us-555314">Ford to cut 3,200 jobs in Europe; plans to move some work to the US</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, police said it could possibly be a “swatting call” which triggered the evacuation and police action. People sometimes make swatting prank calls to trick emergency services into rushing police officials, most often a Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team.</p>

<p>Sarah Boyd, a spokeswoman for the sheriff’s department, said, “The person who called claimed to be a disgruntled employee.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Police blocked off the road on US 69 Highway as the investigation was ongoing. The sheriff’s department was asking people to avoid the area on Tuesday.</p>

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Ford’s assembly plant in Kansas was evacuated on Tuesday (July 19) following reports that an active shooter had barricaded himself in the second-floor bathroom of the facility.

Ford’s assembly plant in Kansas was evacuated on Tuesday (July 19) following reports that an active shooter had barricaded himself in the second-floor bathroom of the facility. Reuters reported no deaths, injuries or damages from the scene even as the Clay County sheriff’s office warned people that police officials were entering the plant to find the source of the threat. The emergency call that sounded alarm at the Ford facility At 5:20 PM local time, Ford’s safety and risk management team got a call from a man who reportedly claimed that he was armed with explosives, a rifle and a handgun. The man also claimed to have been barricaded in the second-floor bathroom in the paint area of the plant. Watch: Gun violence in US: At least 160 shooting incidents in 2023 × This led the Ford management team to order the immediate evacuation of the assembly plant. All production lines were closed and the 7,250 employees who work at the plant were rushed to safety. Reuters reported the United Auto Workers (UAW) union as saying that it was closely monitoring the situation. In a statement, the union said, “It's our understanding that one individual is heavily armed inside the assembly plant, but swift action by union and plant leadership cleared the building." Could be a ‘swatting prank call’ According to the statement by the union, there was heavy police deployment in the facility. It also informed that no workers were harmed as the events unfolded. Also read: Ford to cut 3,200 jobs in Europe; plans to move some work to the US Meanwhile, police said it could possibly be a “swatting call” which triggered the evacuation and police action. People sometimes make swatting prank calls to trick emergency services into rushing police officials, most often a Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team. Sarah Boyd, a spokeswoman for the sheriff’s department, said, “The person who called claimed to be a disgruntled employee.” Police blocked off the road on US 69 Highway as the investigation was ongoing. The sheriff’s department was asking people to avoid the area on Tuesday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ford plant in Kansas evacuated after armed ‘disgruntled employee’ hides in bathroom

<p>Japan has just been toppled by Singapore to become the nation with the world’s most powerful passport. In the latest passport power index released by Henley &amp; Partners, Singapore has registered an impressive visa-free score of 192, which simply means the country’s citizens can travel to 192 destinations in the world without the need to get a visa beforehand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Henley &amp; Partners passport index is based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and it ranks 199 passports worldwide.</p>

<h2><strong>Index dominated by Europeans</strong></h2>

<p>The second position on the index is collectively shared by Germany, Italy and Spain with a visa-free score of 190. Japan, which dominated the index for four straight years, has been knocked down to the third position this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, its citizens, along with those from Austria, Finland, France, Luxemburg, South Korea and Sweden, have visa-free access to 189 countries. This shows that European powers are now dominating the passport index, outshining their Asian peers like Japan and South Korea.</p>

<h2><strong>US &amp; UK on a downward trajectory</strong></h2>

<p>Both the United States and the United Kingdom have experienced a decline in their global ranking of visa-free travel since their prime days when they jointly held the top spot in 2014.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-travellers-ready-to-spend-more-for-the-experience-this-year-survey-614294"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Indian travellers ready to spend more for the experience this year: Survey</strong></a></p>

<p>However, there seems to be a positive development for the UK as it has jumped two positions to reach the fourth position in the current rankings, a position it hasn't held since 2017.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, the US continues to slide down, falling two more places to the eighth spot, offering visa-free access to only 183 destinations.</p>

<p><strong>Here are the world's best passports</strong></p>

<p>1. Singapore (192 destinations)</p>

<p>2. Germany, Italy, Spain (190 destinations)</p>

<p>3. Austria, Finland, France, Japan, Luxembourg, South Korea, Sweden (189)</p>

<p>4. Denmark, Ireland, Netherlands, UK (188 destinations)</p>

<p>5. Belgium, Czech Republic, Malta, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Switzerland (187 destinations)</p>

<p>6. Australia, Hungary, Poland (186 destinations)</p>

<p>7. Canada, Greece (185 destinations)</p>

<p>8. Lithuania, United States (184 destinations)</p>

<p>9. Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia (183 destinations)</p>

<p>10. Estonia, Iceland (182 destinations)</p>

<h2><strong>Where do India and other South Asian nations stand?</strong></h2>

<p>The Maldives continues to be the brightest spot in the South Asian region on the passport index, with its citizens enjoying either visa-on-demand or visa-free access to 91 destinations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;'Roadmap for tourism approved by all countries' says G20 Sherpa in a conversation with WION</strong></p>

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<p>India is positioned at the second spot in the region, with a visa-free score of 57. Globally, India is in the 80th position, a rank shared by Senegal and Togo.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Country- rank (Visa-free score)</strong></p>

<p><strong>Maldives</strong>- 57 &nbsp;(91)</p>

<p><strong>India</strong>- 80 &nbsp;(57)</p>

<p><strong>Bhutan</strong>- 84 (53)</p>

<p><strong>Sri Lanka</strong>- 95 (41)</p>

<p><strong>Bangladesh</strong>- 96 (40)</p>

<p><strong>Nepal</strong>- 98 (38)</p>

<p><strong>Pakistan</strong>- 100 &nbsp;(33)</p>

<p><strong>Afghanistan</strong>- 103 &nbsp;(27)</p>

<h2><strong>Worst passports</strong></h2>

<p>The Henley &amp; Partners passport index places Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and Pakistan on or beyond the 100th rank. Pakistan has scored a mere 33 points in the visa-free index, thus holding an embarrassing 100th position.</p>

<p>Syria and Iraq are placed at 101st and 102nd positions, with respective visa-free scores of 30 and 29. Afghanistan is placed in the last position at 103, with its citizens having visa-free access to 27 nations.</p>

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Japan has just been toppled by Singapore to become the nation with the world’s most powerful passport. In the latest passport power index released by Henley & Partners, Singapore has registered an impressive visa-free score of 192, which simply means the country’s citizens can travel to 192 destinations in the world without the need to get a visa beforehand.

Japan has just been toppled by Singapore to become the nation with the world’s most powerful passport. In the latest passport power index released by Henley & Partners, Singapore has registered an impressive visa-free score of 192, which simply means the country’s citizens can travel to 192 destinations in the world without the need to get a visa beforehand. The Henley & Partners passport index is based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and it ranks 199 passports worldwide. Index dominated by Europeans The second position on the index is collectively shared by Germany, Italy and Spain with a visa-free score of 190. Japan, which dominated the index for four straight years, has been knocked down to the third position this year. Now, its citizens, along with those from Austria, Finland, France, Luxemburg, South Korea and Sweden, have visa-free access to 189 countries. This shows that European powers are now dominating the passport index, outshining their Asian peers like Japan and South Korea. US & UK on a downward trajectory Both the United States and the United Kingdom have experienced a decline in their global ranking of visa-free travel since their prime days when they jointly held the top spot in 2014. Also read: Indian travellers ready to spend more for the experience this year: Survey However, there seems to be a positive development for the UK as it has jumped two positions to reach the fourth position in the current rankings, a position it hasn't held since 2017. On the other hand, the US continues to slide down, falling two more places to the eighth spot, offering visa-free access to only 183 destinations. Here are the world's best passports 1. Singapore (192 destinations) 2. Germany, Italy, Spain (190 destinations) 3. Austria, Finland, France, Japan, Luxembourg, South Korea, Sweden (189) 4. Denmark, Ireland, Netherlands, UK (188 destinations) 5. Belgium, Czech Republic, Malta, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Switzerland (187 destinations) 6. Australia, Hungary, Poland (186 destinations) 7. Canada, Greece (185 destinations) 8. Lithuania, United States (184 destinations) 9. Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia (183 destinations) 10. Estonia, Iceland (182 destinations) Where do India and other South Asian nations stand? The Maldives continues to be the brightest spot in the South Asian region on the passport index, with its citizens enjoying either visa-on-demand or visa-free access to 91 destinations. Watch: 'Roadmap for tourism approved by all countries' says G20 Sherpa in a conversation with WION × India is positioned at the second spot in the region, with a visa-free score of 57. Globally, India is in the 80th position, a rank shared by Senegal and Togo. Country- rank (Visa-free score) Maldives- 57 (91) India- 80 (57) Bhutan- 84 (53) Sri Lanka- 95 (41) Bangladesh- 96 (40) Nepal- 98 (38) Pakistan- 100 (33) Afghanistan- 103 (27) Worst passports The Henley & Partners passport index places Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and Pakistan on or beyond the 100th rank. Pakistan has scored a mere 33 points in the visa-free index, thus holding an embarrassing 100th position. Syria and Iraq are placed at 101st and 102nd positions, with respective visa-free scores of 30 and 29. Afghanistan is placed in the last position at 103, with its citizens having visa-free access to 27 nations. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

World's strongest passports in 2023: How powerful is Indian passport? Maldives takes top spot in South Asia

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