Parts of the United States are likely to see the worst flood in 1,000 years, thanks to the weather phenomenon known as atmospheric rivers. The forecast from&nbsp;the Weather Prediction Center of the US National Weather Service (NWS) warned that the storms associated with this phenomenon will move towards northeastern states on Friday and into the weekend. The landfall will hit the middle Mississippi Valley and the Arkansas-Louisiana-Texas region.
Parts of Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, Missouri, Indiana and Illinois states could come under heavy flooding.
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<h2>What are atmospheric rivers? </h2>
The term atmospheric rivers, abbreviated as ARs, was popularised in the 1990s by researchers Yong Zhu and Reginald E&nbsp; Newell of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Atmospheric rivers are often referred to as ARs.
In simplest terms, atmospheric rivers are a weather phenomenon that appear like rivers in the sky: a narrow, long area of water vapour.
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These 'rivers' take moisture from tropical regions and move them to the mainland US.
Their geographical distribution spans the Pacific to Hawaii.&nbsp;
Once they form over an ocean, atmospheric rivers flow through the sky and bring water vapour from the tropics to the northern latitudes of the US.
Once the atmospheric river makes landfall, the moisture is released as rain or snow.
Atmospheric rivers are behind nearly half of annual precipitation in the US. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-braces-for-one-in-1000-year-flood-state-of-emergency-declared-as-millions-at-risk-in-these-states-8921638">US braces for &lsquo;one-in-1000-year&rsquo; flood: State of emergency declared as millions at risk&nbsp;in&nbsp;THESE&nbsp;states</a>
An average atmospheric river can carry as much water as the mouth of the Mississippi River. How much water can be carried in an atmospheric river is calculated by measuring the vapour and dividing it by the density of liquid water.
The worst kind of atmospheric rivers can lead to unprecedented rain and floods.&nbsp;The rains can cause landslides, disrupt travel and damage both life and property.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-braces-for-more-flooding-as-another-atmospheric-river-approaches-571738">California braces for more flooding as another atmospheric river approa</a>
Atmosphere rivers are also responsible for the snowpack in the Sierra mountains.
<h2>How are atmospheric rivers formed?</h2>
Atmospheric rivers are generally a consequence of cyclones and storms. They can extend up to 600 kilometres in width. Weather conditions affect the direction of their movement, as well as the intensity of rain or snow that they bring in.
<h2>What is a Pineapple Express?</h2>
Pinapple Express is the nickname given to the atmospheric river that brings vapour from the tropics near Hawaii to the West Coast states of the US.
<h2>Are all atmospheric rivers dangerous?</h2>
No. Most atmospheric rivers are weak, and could bring much-needed rain that fills aquifers. They are in fact a crucial aspect of water supply in the US.
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But an excess supply of rain due to atmospheric rivers can lead to floods.&nbsp;Past cases of flooding by atmospheric rivers include the December 2010 winter storm that hit the US West Coast.&nbsp;Rainfall of up to 25 inches was recorded.&nbsp;
<h2>How are atmospheric rivers monitored?</h2>
In the US, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or NOAA, a bureau of the commerce department, is the main government agency responsible for monitoring and researching atmospheric rivers.
It forecasts and warns about the dangers of atmospheric rivers, using satellite imagery, radar and weather aircraft.
Based on NOAA research, the National Weather Service forecasters warn about rain and flooding.
They can make the predictions up to seven days ahead of such events.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-braces-for-more-flooding-as-another-atmospheric-river-approaches-571738"></a>

Worst flood in 1000 years . Atmospheric rivers are a weather phenomenon that appear like rivers in the sky: a narrow, long area of water vapour. World Science & Tech

Parts of the United States are likely to see the worst flood in 1,000 years, thanks to the weather phenomenon known as atmospheric rivers. The forecast from the Weather Prediction Center of the US National Weather Service (NWS) warned that the storms associated with this phenomenon will move towards northeastern states on Friday and into the weekend. The landfall will hit the middle Mississippi Valley and the Arkansas-Louisiana-Texas region. Parts of Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, Missouri, Indiana and Illinois states could come under heavy flooding. What are atmospheric rivers? The term atmospheric rivers, abbreviated as ARs, was popularised in the 1990s by researchers Yong Zhu and Reginald E Newell of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Atmospheric rivers are often referred to as ARs. In simplest terms, atmospheric rivers are a weather phenomenon that appear like rivers in the sky: a narrow, long area of water vapour. Argentina flooding death toll rises to 16, two girls missing These 'rivers' take moisture from tropical regions and move them to the mainland US. Their geographical distribution spans the Pacific to Hawaii. Once they form over an ocean, atmospheric rivers flow through the sky and bring water vapour from the tropics to the northern latitudes of the US. Once the atmospheric river makes landfall, the moisture is released as rain or snow. Atmospheric rivers are behind nearly half of annual precipitation in the US. US braces for ‘one-in-1000-year’ flood: State of emergency declared as millions at risk in THESE states An average atmospheric river can carry as much water as the mouth of the Mississippi River. How much water can be carried in an atmospheric river is calculated by measuring the vapour and dividing it by the density of liquid water. The worst kind of atmospheric rivers can lead to unprecedented rain and floods. The rains can cause landslides, disrupt travel and damage both life and property. California braces for more flooding as another atmospheric river approa Atmosphere rivers are also responsible for the snowpack in the Sierra mountains. How are atmospheric rivers formed? Atmospheric rivers are generally a consequence of cyclones and storms. They can extend up to 600 kilometres in width. Weather conditions affect the direction of their movement, as well as the intensity of rain or snow that they bring in. What is a Pineapple Express? Pinapple Express is the nickname given to the atmospheric river that brings vapour from the tropics near Hawaii to the West Coast states of the US. Are all atmospheric rivers dangerous? No. Most atmospheric rivers are weak, and could bring much-needed rain that fills aquifers. They are in fact a crucial aspect of water supply in the US. Hyderabad: Rain, thunderstorm wreak havoc, portion of Charminar minaret falls But an excess supply of rain due to atmospheric rivers can lead to floods. Past cases of flooding by atmospheric rivers include the December 2010 winter storm that hit the US West Coast. Rainfall of up to 25 inches was recorded. How are atmospheric rivers monitored? In the US, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or NOAA, a bureau of the commerce department, is the main government agency responsible for monitoring and researching atmospheric rivers. It forecasts and warns about the dangers of atmospheric rivers, using satellite imagery, radar and weather aircraft. Based on NOAA research, the National Weather Service forecasters warn about rain and flooding. They can make the predictions up to seven days ahead of such events.

What are atmospheric rivers, the vapour in the sky that can cause worst floods in 1,000 years in US states?

Musk's X vs India case: What is Sahyog portal? A court in India on Thursday (Apr 3) denied interim protection to Elon Musk&rsquo;s X in the social media platform's legal battle against the Indian government over alleged indirect censorship. The case has been posted for April 24 for further hearing.
At the Karnataka High Court, X lawyer claimed that the Indian government was engaging in &ldquo;mudslinging&rdquo; against the company.&nbsp; For its part, the government's counsel said social media companies must adhere to national laws unless set aside by the courts.
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<h2>What is the X vs India case all about?</h2>
At the heart of X's complaint are the numerous content takedown orders.&nbsp; X says that India's Information Act provides safeguards against arbitrary removal of content. Section 69(A) of the Act calls for judicial oversight of such takedowns, whereas the government is using Section 79 to issue the orders, as per X lawyers.
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X also claims that the Indian government has threatened to withdraw safe harbour protections unless it complies with the takedown requests. The platform has alleged that the government rules allow even tax officers to issue content takedown orders, and warned that future authorisations could extend to lower-level officials.
<h2>Why is Sahyog portal an issue in Musk's X vs India case?</h2>
'Sahyog' (meaning cooperation in Hindi) is a portal of the Indian government. With a vision to 'create a safe cyber space for the citizens of India,' Sahyog describes itself as 'an effective framework and ecosystem for the prevention, detection, investigation, and prosecution of cybercrime.'
X has not yet joined Sahyog portal, which is a&nbsp;a key bone of contention in its case against India.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-to-step-back-trump-tells-inner-circle-billionaire-to-transition-out-of-administration-8918906">Musk reacts to report claiming Trump said X boss &lsquo;will be stepping back&rsquo;; White House calls it &lsquo;garbage&rsquo;</a>
The Sahyog portal was raised as a problem by X lawyers. The portal, made under the auspices of India's home ministry facilitates content removal requests.
According to X lawyers, the Sahyog system is used by officials such as tax officers to issue content removal orders.
This is seen by X as censorship by other means. In broad terms, it's a violation of the freedom of expression rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution.&nbsp;
On Thursday, the X lawyer said the government was asking the platform to join Sahyog portal, which it said "is in effect a censorship portal."
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In response, the government counsel said, "any intermediary is bound by Indian laws. Joining (Sahyog) portal is not so grave that you need interim protection."&nbsp;
The Indian government counsels maintained that the Sahyog &nbsp;portal is only for streamlining compliance.
The court's decision not to give interim protection means X will have to comply with content takedown orders for now.&nbsp;
<h2>What is Sahyog Portal? Is it for censorship?</h2>
The Sahyog Portal was developed by home ministry to facilitate coordination between Indian government agencies, law enforcement and digital intermediaries - mainly social media platforms - for removing unlawful content.
The portal can be used to send content removal notices under the IT Act. The idea is to ensure swift action against harmful content, cybercrime-related content, or content that threatens India's national security or public order.
Using the portal, government agencies, police and central departments can issue direct content takedown orders to online platforms.&nbsp;
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While the government sees Sahyog as a way to enhance online safety, X has resisted joining it.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, at least 38 major online platforms have joined the portal. They include Google, Microsoft and Meta.
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X vs India Sahyog portal row : X alleged that India's rules allow even tax officers to issue content takedown orders, and warned that future authorisations could extend to lower-level officials. India News  World Tech

Musk's X vs India case: What is Sahyog portal? A court in India on Thursday (Apr 3) denied interim protection to Elon Musk’s X in the social media platform's legal battle against the Indian government over alleged indirect censorship. The case has been posted for April 24 for further hearing. At the Karnataka High Court, X lawyer claimed that the Indian government was engaging in “mudslinging” against the company. For its part, the government's counsel said social media companies must adhere to national laws unless set aside by the courts. What is the X vs India case all about? At the heart of X's complaint are the numerous content takedown orders. X says that India's Information Act provides safeguards against arbitrary removal of content. Section 69(A) of the Act calls for judicial oversight of such takedowns, whereas the government is using Section 79 to issue the orders, as per X lawyers. Musk's eerie declaration: Robots will overpower humanity. '10 billion...' X also claims that the Indian government has threatened to withdraw safe harbour protections unless it complies with the takedown requests. The platform has alleged that the government rules allow even tax officers to issue content takedown orders, and warned that future authorisations could extend to lower-level officials. Why is Sahyog portal an issue in Musk's X vs India case? 'Sahyog' (meaning cooperation in Hindi) is a portal of the Indian government. With a vision to 'create a safe cyber space for the citizens of India,' Sahyog describes itself as 'an effective framework and ecosystem for the prevention, detection, investigation, and prosecution of cybercrime.' X has not yet joined Sahyog portal, which is a a key bone of contention in its case against India. Musk reacts to report claiming Trump said X boss ‘will be stepping back’; White House calls it ‘garbage’ The Sahyog portal was raised as a problem by X lawyers. The portal, made under the auspices of India's home ministry facilitates content removal requests. According to X lawyers, the Sahyog system is used by officials such as tax officers to issue content removal orders. This is seen by X as censorship by other means. In broad terms, it's a violation of the freedom of expression rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution. On Thursday, the X lawyer said the government was asking the platform to join Sahyog portal, which it said "is in effect a censorship portal." 'Largest breach ever': Massive data breach at Musk's X leaks over 200 million users' email addresses, photos and more In response, the government counsel said, "any intermediary is bound by Indian laws. Joining (Sahyog) portal is not so grave that you need interim protection." The Indian government counsels maintained that the Sahyog portal is only for streamlining compliance. The court's decision not to give interim protection means X will have to comply with content takedown orders for now. What is Sahyog Portal? Is it for censorship? The Sahyog Portal was developed by home ministry to facilitate coordination between Indian government agencies, law enforcement and digital intermediaries - mainly social media platforms - for removing unlawful content. The portal can be used to send content removal notices under the IT Act. The idea is to ensure swift action against harmful content, cybercrime-related content, or content that threatens India's national security or public order. Using the portal, government agencies, police and central departments can issue direct content takedown orders to online platforms. Elon Musk calls for arrest of ‘fake’ NGO leaders engaged in ‘money laundering’ While the government sees Sahyog as a way to enhance online safety, X has resisted joining it. Meanwhile, at least 38 major online platforms have joined the portal. They include Google, Microsoft and Meta.

What is Sahyog? Is it really backdoor censorship? No interim relief for Musk's X on content takedown in India amid 'Sahyog portal' row

China-Taiwan tensions spill over into China vs Philippines: An angry Beijing has warned the Philippines not to 'play with fire' amid Manila's military moves that appeared to suggest it would 'get involved' if China invades Taiwan. The war of words came a day after China conducted back-to-back drills surrounding Taiwan, the self-ruled island that Beijing has vowed to annex, even if through force. China may have one more reason to be worried: The planned sale of America's F-16 jets to the Philippines.
The Chinese officials are livid, asking the Philippines not to make unfounded comments regarding Taiwan and warning, "those who play with fire will burn themselves."
Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, Guo Jiakun said, "We advise the relevant people in the Philippines not to provoke and play with fire on the Taiwan issue. Those who play with fire will get burned."&nbsp;
"The Taiwan issue is China's internal affairs and the core of China's core interests. How to solve the Taiwan issue is the Chinese people's own business and others are not allowed to make decisions, Guo said, adding China opposed the Philippine authorities' 'unfounded comments that reverse right and wrong and smear and hype.'
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<h2>But why is China so angry?</h2>
Guo's comments came amid two developments: remarks by the Philippine armed forces chief Romeo Brawner that his country would eventually get 'involved' in the Taiwan question, and news of US approving sale of F-16 fighter jets to Manila.
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Brawner told soldiers on Tuesday (Apr 1) to "start planning for actions in case there is an invasion of Taiwan." "If something happens to Taiwan, inevitably we will be involved," said Brawner.
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The long-standing military cooperation between the Philippines and the US has been re-energised in the past couple of years, much to the chagrin of China.
Guo, in his comments, warned that this cooperation &nbsp;'must not undermine regional peace and security.'
<h2>Why American F-16 Jets make China jittery</h2>
Guo was responding to a question about reports that the US would possibly sell F-16 fighter jets to the Philippines.
"Any defence and security cooperation between the Philippines and other countries should not target a third party or harm the interests of a third party [or] threaten regional peace and security or escalate regional tension," Guo warned.&nbsp;
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Without naming the US, he said 'all countries in the region' know exactly who is fanning the flames, "fueling military confrontation and turning Asia into a 'powder keg'."
Guo's anger might have been misplaced, as the Philippine army chief's comments came more in the context of overseas Filipino workers or OFWs.
His exact quotes are: &ldquo;If something happens to Taiwan, inevitably we will be involved. There are 250,000 OFWs working in Taiwan and we will have to rescue them, and it will be the task of the Nolcom to be at the front line of that operation.&rdquo;&nbsp;
<h2>More about Philippine army preparation and US military cooperation</h2>
The Chinese comments came after the US approved the sale of 20 F-16 fighter jets worth $5.58 billion to the Philippines. The sale news came amid tensions in South China Sea between the Philippines and China.
The SCS tensions are mainly about fishing rights, with Chinese Coast Guard often harassing Filipino fishermen in disputed shoals.
The US described the F-16 sales as part of&nbsp; 'supporting the security and foreign policy concerns of the US by improving the capability of a &ldquo;strategic partner&rdquo;.
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While announcing the deal on Tuesday (Apr 1), the US State Department said the Philippines is an important force for political stability in Southeast Asia.
On Thursday, the Philippines sought to cool the nerves in Bejing, saying the F-16 purchase was not intended to harm any third nation.
&ldquo;The potential purchase of F-16 jets by the Philippines from the United States does not harm the interests of any third party, including China,&rdquo; said&nbsp;National Security Council spokesperson Jonathan Malaya, adding that the sale is only a part of Manila's efforts to modernise its military,
<h2>The provocative Chinese drills</h2>
The Chinese reaction came a day after its back-to-back military drills around Taiwan. The long-range live-fire drills in the East China Sea on Tuesday and Wednesday saw the involvement of aircraft carriers, fighter jets and the Chinese Coast Guard.
China conducted precision strike tests on port and energy facilities, which came after strong pro-independence stance of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te.
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China conducted military drills surrounding Taiwan. China may have one more reason to be worried: The sale of America's F-16 jets to the Philippines. World Trending

China-Taiwan tensions spill over into China vs Philippines: An angry Beijing has warned the Philippines not to 'play with fire' amid Manila's military moves that appeared to suggest it would 'get involved' if China invades Taiwan. The war of words came a day after China conducted back-to-back drills surrounding Taiwan, the self-ruled island that Beijing has vowed to annex, even if through force. China may have one more reason to be worried: The planned sale of America's F-16 jets to the Philippines. The Chinese officials are livid, asking the Philippines not to make unfounded comments regarding Taiwan and warning, "those who play with fire will burn themselves." Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, Guo Jiakun said, "We advise the relevant people in the Philippines not to provoke and play with fire on the Taiwan issue. Those who play with fire will get burned." "The Taiwan issue is China's internal affairs and the core of China's core interests. How to solve the Taiwan issue is the Chinese people's own business and others are not allowed to make decisions, Guo said, adding China opposed the Philippine authorities' 'unfounded comments that reverse right and wrong and smear and hype.' But why is China so angry? Guo's comments came amid two developments: remarks by the Philippine armed forces chief Romeo Brawner that his country would eventually get 'involved' in the Taiwan question, and news of US approving sale of F-16 fighter jets to Manila. China tells Philippines to halt 'provocative actions' in South China Sea after shoal standoff Brawner told soldiers on Tuesday (Apr 1) to "start planning for actions in case there is an invasion of Taiwan." "If something happens to Taiwan, inevitably we will be involved," said Brawner. South China Sea: Chinese helicopter flew 'dangerously' within 3m of Philippine plane The long-standing military cooperation between the Philippines and the US has been re-energised in the past couple of years, much to the chagrin of China. Guo, in his comments, warned that this cooperation 'must not undermine regional peace and security.' Why American F-16 Jets make China jittery Guo was responding to a question about reports that the US would possibly sell F-16 fighter jets to the Philippines. "Any defence and security cooperation between the Philippines and other countries should not target a third party or harm the interests of a third party [or] threaten regional peace and security or escalate regional tension," Guo warned. Chinese Air Force harass Filipino troops over disputed reef, says Manila Without naming the US, he said 'all countries in the region' know exactly who is fanning the flames, "fueling military confrontation and turning Asia into a 'powder keg'." Guo's anger might have been misplaced, as the Philippine army chief's comments came more in the context of overseas Filipino workers or OFWs. His exact quotes are: “If something happens to Taiwan, inevitably we will be involved. There are 250,000 OFWs working in Taiwan and we will have to rescue them, and it will be the task of the Nolcom to be at the front line of that operation.” More about Philippine army preparation and US military cooperation The Chinese comments came after the US approved the sale of 20 F-16 fighter jets worth $5.58 billion to the Philippines. The sale news came amid tensions in South China Sea between the Philippines and China. The SCS tensions are mainly about fishing rights, with Chinese Coast Guard often harassing Filipino fishermen in disputed shoals. The US described the F-16 sales as part of 'supporting the security and foreign policy concerns of the US by improving the capability of a “strategic partner”. 'Existential problem': Philippines plans to procure more missiles from India after BrahMos amid China threat While announcing the deal on Tuesday (Apr 1), the US State Department said the Philippines is an important force for political stability in Southeast Asia. On Thursday, the Philippines sought to cool the nerves in Bejing, saying the F-16 purchase was not intended to harm any third nation. “The potential purchase of F-16 jets by the Philippines from the United States does not harm the interests of any third party, including China,” said National Security Council spokesperson Jonathan Malaya, adding that the sale is only a part of Manila's efforts to modernise its military, The provocative Chinese drills The Chinese reaction came a day after its back-to-back military drills around Taiwan. The long-range live-fire drills in the East China Sea on Tuesday and Wednesday saw the involvement of aircraft carriers, fighter jets and the Chinese Coast Guard. China conducted precision strike tests on port and energy facilities, which came after strong pro-independence stance of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te.

'Don't play with fire': Why is China angry at Philippines amid Taiwan tensions? Answer: 20 American F-16 jets are coming...

An American man, Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov, has been arrested for entering the prohibited areas in India's Andaman where the fiercely secretive Sentinelese tribes live. Sentinelese are protective about their territory and isolation and one of the most isolated tribes in the world. But did you know that an Indian woman had made friendly contact with them many years ago?
<h2>But first, who is Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov? What did he do? Why was he arrested?&nbsp;</h2>
According to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Andaman and Nicobar Police, Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov was arrested for entering the North Sentinel Island, a prohibited tribal reserve area.
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The 24-year-old made several visits to the islands before being arrested on March 31. Police seized a GoPro camera from him, and footage from it confirmed that he had gone to the restricted areas in North Sentinel Island.
Indian news agency PTI reported that Polyakov had told police he was a "thrill seeker" whose earlier travels included a trip to Afghanistan to meet Taliban members.
<h2>Who are the Sentinelese tribes?</h2>
The Sentinelese are among the world's most isolated tribes. Living in North Sentinel Island in the Andaman, they are fiercely protective about their territory and are known to attack strangers using bows and arrows.&nbsp;
The administration of Andaman and Nicobar Islands is strict about protecting the Sentinelese.&nbsp;
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In 2018, another man, John Allen Chau, was killed by the tribe. The American missionary was attempting to make contact with the tribe.&nbsp;At the time, a story about the first woman who made friendly contact with the Sentinalese came back to focus.
<h2>Who is the first woman who made contact with Sentinalese tribes? Madhumala Chattopadhyay's work with the tribes&nbsp;</h2>
Indian anthropologist Madhumala Chattopadhyay is known to be the first, and possibly the only, woman who had made direct, friendly contact with the tribes of Sentenel island.
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Chattopadhyay, along with a team from India, made the friendly contact with the tribes, which was also captured on video. Chattopadhyay worked on and documented the lives of Aong (Jarawa) tribe Onge tribe in Andaman.
Chattopadhyay went to the island with a team of anthropologists and made contact with the tribespeople on January 4, 1991.&nbsp; She and her colleagues are believed to have been the first outsiders to make peaceful contact with the otherwise hostile Sentinelese tribe.
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Chattopadhyay's team was led by SA Awaradi, who was the director of India's Tribal Welfare Department at the time. They offered the gift of coconuts to the tribespeople. They were initially met with hostility, but the tribes later eased into their presence.
In subsequent trips, Chattopadhyay was seen interactng with the tribeswomen and was even photographed holding a child from the tribe.
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/11/25/2511_DRUGS_430PM_wion-1732537219-00000003.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2511_DRUGS_430PM_wion_.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=100&amp;tags=Indian coast,Indian Coast Guard,Andaman,drug overhaul" title="Indian Coast Guards Seizes Nearly Five Tonnes of Drugs in Andaman" id="PL_iframe_block-m910zqa6-9p7r6i5o-b1fiplfu"></iframe>
 "They are not uncivilised. They understand nature better than us. Don't foreget, they knew a tsunami was coming and moved to higher grounds," she said in a later interview.
Now, back to the Polykov arrest story. 
<h2>How did Polykov get caught in Andaman?</h2>
Polyakov visited India thrice in the past five months, according to Andaman police.&nbsp;He first arrived in India on October 18 last year, tried to do a recce of North Sentinel Island using an inflatable kayak, but hotel staff stopped him, said the PTI report.
"He visited the Baratang Islands, illegally filmed the Jarawa tribe, and explored various areas in Port Blair before departing on January 27," the PTI report quoted an official as saying.
On his third visit on March 26, he went to Port Blair with an inflatable boat. "He assembled the motor at a local workshop, purchased fuel, and checked into a resort on March 27. He conducted research on sea conditions, tides, and accessibility from Kurma Dera Beach, planning his journey meticulously," the first information report said.
Like&nbsp;Chattopadhyay's team did, Polykov went to the island with coconut. Interestingly, he also took some Diet Coke cans as offerings to the tribes. He blew a whistle to capture the attention of the tribes but to no avail. As he could not find any tribespeople, Polykov left the 'gifts' on the shore and recorded a video, as per police.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov arrested for entering the North Sentinel Island's tribal reserve area and trying to make contact with the tribe. India News Trending World

An American man, Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov, has been arrested for entering the prohibited areas in India's Andaman where the fiercely secretive Sentinelese tribes live. Sentinelese are protective about their territory and isolation and one of the most isolated tribes in the world. But did you know that an Indian woman had made friendly contact with them many years ago? But first, who is Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov? What did he do? Why was he arrested? According to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Andaman and Nicobar Police, Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov was arrested for entering the North Sentinel Island, a prohibited tribal reserve area. Scientists find ‘Ghost Shark’ with giant head and iridescent eyes in Andaman Sea The 24-year-old made several visits to the islands before being arrested on March 31. Police seized a GoPro camera from him, and footage from it confirmed that he had gone to the restricted areas in North Sentinel Island. Indian news agency PTI reported that Polyakov had told police he was a "thrill seeker" whose earlier travels included a trip to Afghanistan to meet Taliban members. Who are the Sentinelese tribes? The Sentinelese are among the world's most isolated tribes. Living in North Sentinel Island in the Andaman, they are fiercely protective about their territory and are known to attack strangers using bows and arrows. The administration of Andaman and Nicobar Islands is strict about protecting the Sentinelese. 'Insult of 100 million tribals': PM Modi slams Congress over remarks on President Murmu In 2018, another man, John Allen Chau, was killed by the tribe. The American missionary was attempting to make contact with the tribe. At the time, a story about the first woman who made friendly contact with the Sentinalese came back to focus. Who is the first woman who made contact with Sentinalese tribes? Madhumala Chattopadhyay's work with the tribes Indian anthropologist Madhumala Chattopadhyay is known to be the first, and possibly the only, woman who had made direct, friendly contact with the tribes of Sentenel island. India's largest drug bust: 5 tonnes of Meth seized by Coast Guard off Andamans Chattopadhyay, along with a team from India, made the friendly contact with the tribes, which was also captured on video. Chattopadhyay worked on and documented the lives of Aong (Jarawa) tribe Onge tribe in Andaman. Chattopadhyay went to the island with a team of anthropologists and made contact with the tribespeople on January 4, 1991. She and her colleagues are believed to have been the first outsiders to make peaceful contact with the otherwise hostile Sentinelese tribe. India renames Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar's capital, as 'Sri Vijaya Puram' Chattopadhyay's team was led by SA Awaradi, who was the director of India's Tribal Welfare Department at the time. They offered the gift of coconuts to the tribespeople. They were initially met with hostility, but the tribes later eased into their presence. In subsequent trips, Chattopadhyay was seen interactng with the tribeswomen and was even photographed holding a child from the tribe. "They are not uncivilised. They understand nature better than us. Don't foreget, they knew a tsunami was coming and moved to higher grounds," she said in a later interview. Now, back to the Polykov arrest story. How did Polykov get caught in Andaman? Polyakov visited India thrice in the past five months, according to Andaman police. He first arrived in India on October 18 last year, tried to do a recce of North Sentinel Island using an inflatable kayak, but hotel staff stopped him, said the PTI report. "He visited the Baratang Islands, illegally filmed the Jarawa tribe, and explored various areas in Port Blair before departing on January 27," the PTI report quoted an official as saying. On his third visit on March 26, he went to Port Blair with an inflatable boat. "He assembled the motor at a local workshop, purchased fuel, and checked into a resort on March 27. He conducted research on sea conditions, tides, and accessibility from Kurma Dera Beach, planning his journey meticulously," the first information report said. Like Chattopadhyay's team did, Polykov went to the island with coconut. Interestingly, he also took some Diet Coke cans as offerings to the tribes. He blew a whistle to capture the attention of the tribes but to no avail. As he could not find any tribespeople, Polykov left the 'gifts' on the shore and recorded a video, as per police. (With inputs from agencies)

Andaman Sentinel visit arrest: Mykhailo Viktorovych Polyakov held, but do you know of the woman who made friendly contact with tribe?

Just as the US security establishment is recovering from blowback over the leak of a Signal chat detailing Yemen attack plans, a report claimed that at least 20 more such chat groups may have existed.&nbsp;Politico, citing people aware of the matter, claimed in a report on Wednesday (Apr 3) that Mike Waltz, the US national security advisor, and his team had created these Signal chat groups to discuss major national security matters, possibly sharing classified information.
This comes days after the chats on the March 15 Yemen attack got leaked after a journalist of The Atlantic Magazine was inadvertently added to the chat group. Jeffrey Goldberg, the editor of The Atlantic, later published the entire chat after government officials denied any compromising national security information was shared.
The leak, dubbed 'Signalgate,' disproved the US officials' claims. No action has been taken so far on any of the officials in the chat group, who included Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence.
&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2703_WION_DECODE_US_OFFICIALS_CHATS_NEW/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2703_WION_DECODE_US_OFFICIALS_CHATS_NEW.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=263&amp;tags=Signa Group, US, Houthis, Yemen, World News, WION" title="Signal secret chat group exposed &ndash; what each abbreviation used in Yemen attack chat means | WION Decodes" id="PL_iframe_block-m90w0tce-fl3b7m05-6d6yelqo"></iframe>
<h2>What did the Politico report claim?</h2>
The report alleged that Signal, an encrypted message app, was heavily relied upon for coordinating national security matters and crises around the world.&nbsp;
The issues on which chat groups were created included the Russia-Ukraine war, Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, China threat, US Middle East policy, and security matters related to Africa and Europe.
&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/yemen-war-chat-leak-trump-white-house-scrambles-to-handle-signalgate-fallout-8897932">Yemen war chat leak: Trump White House scrambles to handle SignalGate fallout</a>
<h2>Who were added to the secret chat groups?</h2>
The Politico report claimed that members of President Donald Trump's cabinet and some senior staff were added in these groups.
Such groups, as per the report, is a widespread practice within the National Security Council (NSC).
&nbsp;
<h2>Was classified information shared in 20 other Signal chat groups?</h2>
Four sources that spoke to Politico said 'sensitive information' was discussed frequently in these chats. It is not clear if any classified material was shared.
But one has to remember that the Yemen attack chat indeed included operational details - strike plan, planes and weapons used, and attack sequence. Some of this is indeed classified information, as per experts.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/green-light-on-yemen-raid-snl-mocks-trump-administration-signal-chat-leak-scandal-watch-8908044">&lsquo;Green light on Yemen raid!&rsquo; SNL mocks Trump administration Signal chat leak scandal | WATCH</a>
&nbsp;
&ldquo;It was commonplace to stand up chats on any given national security topic,&rdquo; claimed one source.
<h2>'Waltz built the entire NSC communications process on Signal'</h2>
That's what one source told Politico. This, if true, means the Signal chat route is not an ad hoc step taken only to discuss the Yemen attack but a standard practice in the NSC.
The article claimed that the practice may have begun even before Trump took office. It started during the transition period and continued at least till Signalgate.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-ordered-to-preserve-signalgate-chats-amid-growing-controversy-over-leaked-yemen-attack-plans-8898621">Trump admin ordered to preserve 'Signalgate' chats amid growing controversy over leaked Yemen attack plans</a>
&nbsp;
After the Signalgate happened, the Trump administration officials and the White House went into denial mode first,&nbsp; and then resorted to downplaying the seriousness of the issue.
There are now calls from both Republican and Democrat politicians for investigating potential security risks.
<h2>Who could have been added to the other 20 Signal chats?</h2>
It is not clear from the Politico report as to who all were added into the other alleged Signal chat groups. But it could very well be the same members who were present in the Yemen attack chat, or more. The Houthi attack chat group included US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Vice President JD Vance.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hell-be-gone-in-couple-weeks-jd-vance-urges-trump-to-sack-waltz-after-signal-leak-trump-says-not-yet-8903908">'He&rsquo;ll be gone in couple weeks': JD Vance urges Trump to sack Waltz after Signal leak; Trump says 'not yet'</a>
In the Yemen attack chat, Hegseth shared specific names of aircraft, missiles, targetted terrorists, and the timing of the strike, hours before it actually happened.
&nbsp;Waltz also shared real-time updates on the operation.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-signal-leak-fallout-pete-hegseth-faces-new-scrutiny-as-wife-attends-ukraine-war-meetings-without-clearance-8904979">After Signal leak fallout, Pete Hegseth faces new scrutiny as wife attends Ukraine war meetings without clearance</a>
Later, speaking to Fox News, Waltz had taken &ldquo;full responsibility&rdquo; for the &nbsp;&ldquo;embarrassing&rdquo; mistakes, even as he insisted no claffified information was shared. This was the same stance taken by Trump and his officials in the Signalgate aftermath while playing up the success of the March 15 attack.
(With inputs from agencies)

Politico, citing people aware of the matter, claimed that Mike Waltz, the US national security advisor, and his team had created more secret Signal chat groups. Trending | World

Just as the US security establishment is recovering from blowback over the leak of a Signal chat detailing Yemen attack plans, a report claimed that at least 20 more such chat groups may have existed. Politico, citing people aware of the matter, claimed in a report on Wednesday (Apr 3) that Mike Waltz, the US national security advisor, and his team had created these Signal chat groups to discuss major national security matters, possibly sharing classified information. This comes days after the chats on the March 15 Yemen attack got leaked after a journalist of The Atlantic Magazine was inadvertently added to the chat group. Jeffrey Goldberg, the editor of The Atlantic, later published the entire chat after government officials denied any compromising national security information was shared. The leak, dubbed 'Signalgate,' disproved the US officials' claims. No action has been taken so far on any of the officials in the chat group, who included Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence. What did the Politico report claim? The report alleged that Signal, an encrypted message app, was heavily relied upon for coordinating national security matters and crises around the world. The issues on which chat groups were created included the Russia-Ukraine war, Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, China threat, US Middle East policy, and security matters related to Africa and Europe. Yemen war chat leak: Trump White House scrambles to handle SignalGate fallout Who were added to the secret chat groups? The Politico report claimed that members of President Donald Trump's cabinet and some senior staff were added in these groups. Such groups, as per the report, is a widespread practice within the National Security Council (NSC). Was classified information shared in 20 other Signal chat groups? Four sources that spoke to Politico said 'sensitive information' was discussed frequently in these chats. It is not clear if any classified material was shared. But one has to remember that the Yemen attack chat indeed included operational details - strike plan, planes and weapons used, and attack sequence. Some of this is indeed classified information, as per experts. ‘Green light on Yemen raid!’ SNL mocks Trump administration Signal chat leak scandal | WATCH “It was commonplace to stand up chats on any given national security topic,” claimed one source. 'Waltz built the entire NSC communications process on Signal' That's what one source told Politico. This, if true, means the Signal chat route is not an ad hoc step taken only to discuss the Yemen attack but a standard practice in the NSC. The article claimed that the practice may have begun even before Trump took office. It started during the transition period and continued at least till Signalgate. Trump admin ordered to preserve 'Signalgate' chats amid growing controversy over leaked Yemen attack plans After the Signalgate happened, the Trump administration officials and the White House went into denial mode first, and then resorted to downplaying the seriousness of the issue. There are now calls from both Republican and Democrat politicians for investigating potential security risks. Who could have been added to the other 20 Signal chats? It is not clear from the Politico report as to who all were added into the other alleged Signal chat groups. But it could very well be the same members who were present in the Yemen attack chat, or more. The Houthi attack chat group included US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Vice President JD Vance. 'He’ll be gone in couple weeks': JD Vance urges Trump to sack Waltz after Signal leak; Trump says 'not yet' In the Yemen attack chat, Hegseth shared specific names of aircraft, missiles, targetted terrorists, and the timing of the strike, hours before it actually happened. Waltz also shared real-time updates on the operation. After Signal leak fallout, Pete Hegseth faces new scrutiny as wife attends Ukraine war meetings without clearance Later, speaking to Fox News, Waltz had taken “full responsibility” for the “embarrassing” mistakes, even as he insisted no claffified information was shared. This was the same stance taken by Trump and his officials in the Signalgate aftermath while playing up the success of the March 15 attack. (With inputs from agencies)

Not just Yemen attack chat: Did Mike Waltz set up 20 more secret Signal chat groups other than the one that leaked? What report claims

China vs Taiwan : China has been holding back-to-back military drills this week near and around Taiwan, involving dozens of fighter jets, rocket force, Navy ships and Coast Guard vessels. While such drills have been used by Beiing as an intimidation tactic in the past, this time it seems to be different in intensity, frequency and declared aims.
China is peppering these exercises with increasingly sharper rhetoric against the independence of the self-ruled island, with its firebrand President Lai Ching-te as a specific target.&nbsp;Zhu Fenglian, spokeswoman for Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office, said Taiwan independence "means war, and pursuing 'Taiwan independence' means pushing the people of Taiwan into a dangerous situation of war."
This makes one wonder if the much-feared Chinese invasion of Taiwan is coming faster than we thought.
&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/0204_ARJUN_TAIWAN_8AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0204_ARJUN_TAIWAN_8AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=322&amp;tags=China, Taiwan, World News, WION" title="China-Taiwan war: Taiwan urges democracies to condemn Chinese military drills" id="PL_iframe_block-m8zp5nmo-6t6e2rft-q3glwrn5"></iframe>
<h2>What are Chinese military drills all about?</h2>
The Peoples' Liberation Army (PLA) drills took place on Tuesday and Wednesday (Apr 2) and are expected to happen again.&nbsp;The drills, as well as the Chinese Coast Guard exercises around the same time, appear to be aimed at 'surrounding Taiwan', as these are happening around the island's north, south and east coasts.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-intensifies-military-drills-near-taiwan-for-second-day-us-slams-intimidation-tactics-rising-tensions-8915509">China intensifies military drills near Taiwan for second day; US slams 'intimidation tactics'</a>
The so-called Strait Thunder-2025A exercises are testing 'precision strikes on targets, capabilities of area regulation and control, as well as joint blockade and control, as per Chinese state media. The 'targets' include Taiwan's key ports and energy facilities.
The focus areas include sea-air combat-readiness patrols, assault on maritime and ground targets and blockade on key areas and sea lanes.
PLA said in a statement that the drills are &nbsp;a "stern warning and forceful deterrence against &lsquo;Taiwan Independence&rsquo; separatist forces, and it is a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China&rsquo;s sovereignty and national unity.&rdquo;
<h2>How massive is the latest Chinese military buildup?</h2>
In the past few days, Taiwan has detected at least 71 Chinese military aircraft and 21 warships.&nbsp;
Chinese state-run tabloid Global Times said YJ-21 air-launched ballistic missiles, slung under H-6K bombers, were used in the exercises. The H-6K is an extended-range strike aircraft, and the YJ-21 is an advanced anti-ship weapon. It is interesting to note that some H-6 aircraft can carry nuclear weapons.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-independence-means-war-with-19-warships-china-launches-military-exercises-around-taiwan-8911751">'Taiwan independence means war': With 19 warships, China launches military exercises around Taiwan</a>
The warships that took part in the drills included the Shandong aircraft carrier group.
The back-to-back military drills came even as the Chinese Coast Guard conducted so-called law enforcement patrols around Taiwan. These drills included inspection and capture, interception and detention operations against 'unwarranted vessels'.
<h2>China's rising rhetoric against Taiwan</h2>
Since the new President Lai Ching-te took over, China has been jittery about Taiwan's independence.&nbsp;
It said Taiwan independence is doomed to fail, comparing it to a mantis trying to stop a chariot, and called Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te a "parasite".
Guo Jiakun, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman, said: "Stubborn persistence with the Taiwan independence stance and their futile attempt to split the country from outside by seeking independence is like a mantis trying to stop a chariot; it is doomed to fail."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-greets-prez-murmu-with-dragon-elephant-tango-message-says-india-china-should-strengthen-ties-8914841">Xi greets Prez Murmu with &lsquo;Dragon-Elephant tango&rsquo; message, says India, China should strengthen ties</a>
Shi Yi, the People's Liberation Army spokesperson, said the drills are a &ldquo;severe warning and forceful containment against Taiwan independence".
<h2>Taiwan is resisting Chinese agreesion</h2>
Taiwan is responding to the drills, which are taking place after President Lai Ching-te called China a "foreign hostile force".
Taiwan sent Mirage 2000 fighter jets and warships to respond to China's Navy approaching its coast. Its armed forces have set up a response centre to monitor Chinese military activities.
Taiwan's presidential spokesperson Karen Kuo said the government "has the confidence and ability to defend itself."
When more than 10 Chinese ships came close to Taiwan's 24 nautical mile contiguous zone,&nbsp;Taiwan sent its own warships to respond.
All these are indications of how the game has changed on the ground.
China has always opposed Taiwan's claim of sovereignty, calling it separatism. It has said it would take back the island, with force if needed.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwanese-company-whose-pagers-exploded-in-lebanon-denies-manufacturing-them-759622">Hezbollah Pager Explosion: Taiwanese company whose pagers exploded in Lebanon denies manufacturing them</a>
The situation escalated since the new president took charge. In 2024, China conducted two rounds of major war games around Taiwan, called Joint Sword-2024A and Joint Sword-2024B. This week's drills are a continuation of that belligerent stance.
Lai, who is tougher than his predecessor, Tsai Ing-wen, openly rejected China's sovereignty claims over Taiwan.
So it is fair to say that, beyond intimidating Lai and Taiwan, China is possibly training for a potential invasion.
And such an event becoming a reality looks more possible now than ever.

China vs Taiwan: Strait Thunder-2025A exercises are testing 'precision strikes on targets, capabilities of area regulation and control, as well as joint blockade and control. World

China vs Taiwan : China has been holding back-to-back military drills this week near and around Taiwan, involving dozens of fighter jets, rocket force, Navy ships and Coast Guard vessels. While such drills have been used by Beiing as an intimidation tactic in the past, this time it seems to be different in intensity, frequency and declared aims. China is peppering these exercises with increasingly sharper rhetoric against the independence of the self-ruled island, with its firebrand President Lai Ching-te as a specific target. Zhu Fenglian, spokeswoman for Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office, said Taiwan independence "means war, and pursuing 'Taiwan independence' means pushing the people of Taiwan into a dangerous situation of war." This makes one wonder if the much-feared Chinese invasion of Taiwan is coming faster than we thought. What are Chinese military drills all about? The Peoples' Liberation Army (PLA) drills took place on Tuesday and Wednesday (Apr 2) and are expected to happen again. The drills, as well as the Chinese Coast Guard exercises around the same time, appear to be aimed at 'surrounding Taiwan', as these are happening around the island's north, south and east coasts. China intensifies military drills near Taiwan for second day; US slams 'intimidation tactics' The so-called Strait Thunder-2025A exercises are testing 'precision strikes on targets, capabilities of area regulation and control, as well as joint blockade and control, as per Chinese state media. The 'targets' include Taiwan's key ports and energy facilities. The focus areas include sea-air combat-readiness patrols, assault on maritime and ground targets and blockade on key areas and sea lanes. PLA said in a statement that the drills are a "stern warning and forceful deterrence against ‘Taiwan Independence’ separatist forces, and it is a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China’s sovereignty and national unity.” How massive is the latest Chinese military buildup? In the past few days, Taiwan has detected at least 71 Chinese military aircraft and 21 warships. Chinese state-run tabloid Global Times said YJ-21 air-launched ballistic missiles, slung under H-6K bombers, were used in the exercises. The H-6K is an extended-range strike aircraft, and the YJ-21 is an advanced anti-ship weapon. It is interesting to note that some H-6 aircraft can carry nuclear weapons. 'Taiwan independence means war': With 19 warships, China launches military exercises around Taiwan The warships that took part in the drills included the Shandong aircraft carrier group. The back-to-back military drills came even as the Chinese Coast Guard conducted so-called law enforcement patrols around Taiwan. These drills included inspection and capture, interception and detention operations against 'unwarranted vessels'. China's rising rhetoric against Taiwan Since the new President Lai Ching-te took over, China has been jittery about Taiwan's independence. It said Taiwan independence is doomed to fail, comparing it to a mantis trying to stop a chariot, and called Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te a "parasite". Guo Jiakun, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman, said: "Stubborn persistence with the Taiwan independence stance and their futile attempt to split the country from outside by seeking independence is like a mantis trying to stop a chariot; it is doomed to fail." Xi greets Prez Murmu with ‘Dragon-Elephant tango’ message, says India, China should strengthen ties Shi Yi, the People's Liberation Army spokesperson, said the drills are a “severe warning and forceful containment against Taiwan independence". Taiwan is resisting Chinese agreesion Taiwan is responding to the drills, which are taking place after President Lai Ching-te called China a "foreign hostile force". Taiwan sent Mirage 2000 fighter jets and warships to respond to China's Navy approaching its coast. Its armed forces have set up a response centre to monitor Chinese military activities. Taiwan's presidential spokesperson Karen Kuo said the government "has the confidence and ability to defend itself." When more than 10 Chinese ships came close to Taiwan's 24 nautical mile contiguous zone, Taiwan sent its own warships to respond. All these are indications of how the game has changed on the ground. China has always opposed Taiwan's claim of sovereignty, calling it separatism. It has said it would take back the island, with force if needed. Hezbollah Pager Explosion: Taiwanese company whose pagers exploded in Lebanon denies manufacturing them The situation escalated since the new president took charge. In 2024, China conducted two rounds of major war games around Taiwan, called Joint Sword-2024A and Joint Sword-2024B. This week's drills are a continuation of that belligerent stance. Lai, who is tougher than his predecessor, Tsai Ing-wen, openly rejected China's sovereignty claims over Taiwan. So it is fair to say that, beyond intimidating Lai and Taiwan, China is possibly training for a potential invasion. And such an event becoming a reality looks more possible now than ever.

Is China preparing to invade Taiwan faster than we thought? Back-to-back drills surrounding island raise questions

Iran vs US: The US is sending an additional carrier strike group (CSG) led by USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier to Middle East, to bolster American military presence around Iran as part of a major buildup that also included the presence of B2 stealth bomber jets in Diego Garcia.
USS Carl Vinson is the same US Navy ship from whose deck the body of al Qaeda terror group leader Osama bin Laden was dumped in a &nbsp;'sea burial' after he was killed in a US Marine strike inside Pakistan in 2011.
Earlier stationed in the Guam military base of the US, Carl Vinson, the flagship of the Carrier Strike Group ONE (CSG 1), departed for the Persian Gulf on Friday (Mar 28), according to a Navy release.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/0104_SUMIT_IRAN_3PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0104_SUMIT_IRAN_3PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=365&amp;tags=iran, usa, trump" title="Iran readies for possible strike amid Trump&rsquo;s 'bombing' threat | World News | WION" id="PL_iframe_block-m8zf4jwh-p5u6tzes-0n3bruip"></iframe>
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<h2>More about USS Carl Vinson</h2>
USS Carl Vinson, abbreviated as CVN-70, is the US Navy's third Nimitz-class supercarrier.
Its armaments include Mk 57 Mod13 Sea Sparrow Launchers, RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile Launchers and Phalanx CIWS (which is an automated gun-based close-in weapon defence system).
Besides USS Carl Vinson, the CSG 1 includes a Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59), and the guided-missile destroyers of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 1.
Carl Vinson was deployed in several Middle East operations of the US Navy in the past, including &nbsp;Operation Desert Strike, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-iran-attack-us-base-in-diego-garcia-as-b2-bombers-globemaster-planes-land-in-major-military-buildup-what-we-know-8912170">Will Iran attack US base in Diego Garcia as B2 bombers, Globemaster planes land in major military buildup? What we know</a>
The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is going to US Central Command to join the Harry S Truman CSG.
<h2>Trump's 'maximum pressure' tactic on Iran, Houthis</h2>
The movement of additional US naval power to Middle East adds to the news of B2 stealth fighters and Globemaster transport aircraft being sent to the Diego Garcia base with the potential to deploy in attacks against Houthi rebels in Yemen and their alleged backer, Iran.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-vows-continued-strikes-on-yemens-houthis-warns-iran-real-pain-is-yet-to-come-8911728">Trump vows continued strikes on Yemen's Houthis, warns Iran 'real pain is yet to come'</a>
US President Donald Trump has a two-fold aim: Put 'maximum pressure' on Iran to come to negotiating table on its nuclear programme, and stop Houthis from attacking Western shipping interests in the Red Sea in solidarity with Palestinian militant group Hamas, which is fighting a war in Gaza against Israel.
Trump said over the weekend that 'there will be bombing' if Iran doesn't talk, 'the likes of which was never seen before'. 
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthi-rebels-claim-attacking-us-aircraft-carrier-thrice-in-last-24-hours-8908010">Yemen's Houthi rebels claim attacking US aircraft carrier thrice in last 24 hours</a>

US sends USS Carl Vinson, the ship that dumped Osama bin Laden's body on sea,  to the Middle East. What does it mean? What are the ships's capabilities? World | Trending

Iran vs US: The US is sending an additional carrier strike group (CSG) led by USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier to Middle East, to bolster American military presence around Iran as part of a major buildup that also included the presence of B2 stealth bomber jets in Diego Garcia. USS Carl Vinson is the same US Navy ship from whose deck the body of al Qaeda terror group leader Osama bin Laden was dumped in a 'sea burial' after he was killed in a US Marine strike inside Pakistan in 2011. Earlier stationed in the Guam military base of the US, Carl Vinson, the flagship of the Carrier Strike Group ONE (CSG 1), departed for the Persian Gulf on Friday (Mar 28), according to a Navy release. More about USS Carl Vinson USS Carl Vinson, abbreviated as CVN-70, is the US Navy's third Nimitz-class supercarrier. Its armaments include Mk 57 Mod13 Sea Sparrow Launchers, RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile Launchers and Phalanx CIWS (which is an automated gun-based close-in weapon defence system). Besides USS Carl Vinson, the CSG 1 includes a Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59), and the guided-missile destroyers of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 1. Carl Vinson was deployed in several Middle East operations of the US Navy in the past, including Operation Desert Strike, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Will Iran attack US base in Diego Garcia as B2 bombers, Globemaster planes land in major military buildup? What we know The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is going to US Central Command to join the Harry S Truman CSG. Trump's 'maximum pressure' tactic on Iran, Houthis The movement of additional US naval power to Middle East adds to the news of B2 stealth fighters and Globemaster transport aircraft being sent to the Diego Garcia base with the potential to deploy in attacks against Houthi rebels in Yemen and their alleged backer, Iran. Trump vows continued strikes on Yemen's Houthis, warns Iran 'real pain is yet to come' US President Donald Trump has a two-fold aim: Put 'maximum pressure' on Iran to come to negotiating table on its nuclear programme, and stop Houthis from attacking Western shipping interests in the Red Sea in solidarity with Palestinian militant group Hamas, which is fighting a war in Gaza against Israel. Trump said over the weekend that 'there will be bombing' if Iran doesn't talk, 'the likes of which was never seen before'. Yemen's Houthi rebels claim attacking US aircraft carrier thrice in last 24 hours

US sends USS Carl Vinson, the ship that dumped Osama bin Laden's body on sea,  to Middle East. What is Trump telling Iran?

Trump tariff plan a secret till last minute? US President Donald Trump's reciprocal tariffs will kick in from Wednesday (Apr 2), but there are still contradictory reports on how exactly it would be implemented. Ahead of the announcement day, which Trump described as 'Liberation Day', there is frenzied discussions inside the US administration to make it happen.
&ldquo;The president will be announcing a tariff plan that will roll back the unfair trade practices that have been ripping off this country for decades," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Monday, adding, "He&rsquo;s doing this in the best interest of the American worker.&rdquo;&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trumps-tariff-threat-shakes-up-global-oil-trade-8908842">Trump's tariff threat shakes up global oil trade</a>
The tariff plan is set to be announced at the Rose Garden in the White House on Wednesday. But as of Tuesday, reports indicate that no final decision has been made on the ways of implementing the tariffs.
<h2><iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2703_TRUMP_730AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2703_TRUMP_730AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=188&amp;tags=trump, usa, wion" title="Donald Trump announces 25% tariffs on imported cars, car parts" id="PL_iframe_block-m8yi4242-g19ugrhc-mixkr0xr"></iframe></h2>
<h2>Reciprocal tariffs: What are the options before Trump administration?</h2>
Here are some of the proposals being discussed, as per US media reports.
&gt; Tariffs around 20 per cent of all imports to the US. This would raise import duties on products from every country instead of more targeted approaches. This is a 'universal tariff' which Trump seemed to have favoured in recent remarks, which is simpler than measures specific to each country. When he said on Sunday &ldquo;you&rsquo;d start with all countries,&rdquo; many reports interpreted it to mean that he was suggesting such a thing: same stick for all trading partners.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/there-will-be-bombing-like-never-before-trump-threatens-iran-with-strikes-tariffs-over-nuclear-deal-refusal-8907621">'There will be bombing like never before': Trump threatens Iran with strikes, tariffs over nuclear deal refusal</a>
&gt; Trump could make further changes, using the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which gives the president the powers to change international trade&nbsp;
&gt; Impose additional tariffs on sectors such as automobile and pharmaceutical imports. This is something that could particularly affect India
&gt; Try specific and different tariff rates for individual countries
&gt; One flat rate on imports of between 15 per cent and 25 per cent&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-stagflation-fears-rise-ahead-of-tariff-hit-8912665">US stagflation fears rise ahead of tariff hit</a>
&gt; Exemptions on import of products that the US does not manufacture
&gt; Announce specific tariffs for specific sectors, which will be higher than a flat rate. These sectors are most likely to be auto, copper, pharma and timber. When and at which rates it will be implemented is not clear.
&gt; A specific tariff number for each country. This plan is problematic as US trade partners can resort to round-tripping, sending items via third countries that are not affected by the tariffs.
<h2>A man-made recession: How will the reciprocal tariffs affect US?&nbsp;</h2>
The tariffs, if implemented, will kick in for the April-June quarter. There's widespread fear that the plan could lead to stock market turmoil, and even hit the global economy.
The US could most likely plunge into a man-made recession for at least a year.&nbsp; The cost of living could go up, as many products imported by the US will become dearer.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-claims-india-imposes-100-tariff-on-american-agricultural-products-time-for-reciprocity-says-white-house-8911844">US claims India imposes 100% tariff on American agricultural products, 'time for reciprocity,' says White House</a>
There is also the possibility of a rise in joblessness in the US.&nbsp;
US trading partners like China, Canada and Mexico have vowed countermeasures, while India has been trying to reach a negotiated settlement.
(With inputs from agencies) 
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Business & Economy | World : Trump reciprocal tariffs - What are the proposals being discussed? There is a lot of confusion just a day ahead of Liberation Day

Trump tariff plan a secret till last minute? US President Donald Trump's reciprocal tariffs will kick in from Wednesday (Apr 2), but there are still contradictory reports on how exactly it would be implemented. Ahead of the announcement day, which Trump described as 'Liberation Day', there is frenzied discussions inside the US administration to make it happen. “The president will be announcing a tariff plan that will roll back the unfair trade practices that have been ripping off this country for decades," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Monday, adding, "He’s doing this in the best interest of the American worker.” Trump's tariff threat shakes up global oil trade The tariff plan is set to be announced at the Rose Garden in the White House on Wednesday. But as of Tuesday, reports indicate that no final decision has been made on the ways of implementing the tariffs. Reciprocal tariffs: What are the options before Trump administration? Here are some of the proposals being discussed, as per US media reports. > Tariffs around 20 per cent of all imports to the US. This would raise import duties on products from every country instead of more targeted approaches. This is a 'universal tariff' which Trump seemed to have favoured in recent remarks, which is simpler than measures specific to each country. When he said on Sunday “you’d start with all countries,” many reports interpreted it to mean that he was suggesting such a thing: same stick for all trading partners. 'There will be bombing like never before': Trump threatens Iran with strikes, tariffs over nuclear deal refusal > Trump could make further changes, using the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which gives the president the powers to change international trade > Impose additional tariffs on sectors such as automobile and pharmaceutical imports. This is something that could particularly affect India > Try specific and different tariff rates for individual countries > One flat rate on imports of between 15 per cent and 25 per cent US stagflation fears rise ahead of tariff hit > Exemptions on import of products that the US does not manufacture > Announce specific tariffs for specific sectors, which will be higher than a flat rate. These sectors are most likely to be auto, copper, pharma and timber. When and at which rates it will be implemented is not clear. > A specific tariff number for each country. This plan is problematic as US trade partners can resort to round-tripping, sending items via third countries that are not affected by the tariffs. A man-made recession: How will the reciprocal tariffs affect US? The tariffs, if implemented, will kick in for the April-June quarter. There's widespread fear that the plan could lead to stock market turmoil, and even hit the global economy. The US could most likely plunge into a man-made recession for at least a year. The cost of living could go up, as many products imported by the US will become dearer. US claims India imposes 100% tariff on American agricultural products, 'time for reciprocity,' says White House There is also the possibility of a rise in joblessness in the US. US trading partners like China, Canada and Mexico have vowed countermeasures, while India has been trying to reach a negotiated settlement. (With inputs from agencies)

Liberation Day or Confusion Day? Trump reciprocal tariffs are coming, but officials don't seem to agree on how to implement

A reported buildup of US B2 stealth bomber jets, Globmaster C17 planes, Navy vessels and other American military assets in Diego Garcia base and in the Middle East region is leading to speculations of a possible massive strike by the US targeting Iran or Yemeni Houthis backed by it.&nbsp;This has prompted calls in Iran to bomb Diego Garcia pre-emptively to prevent a direct US strike on the Islamic Republic.
The spiralling events come as US President Donald Trump warned of 'real pain' for the Houthis and their alleged supporter, Iran. He has warned of bombings, the likes of which was never seen before.
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The buildup and possible strikes on Iran or Yemen could also be a way for Trump to drive attention away from the recent Signal chat leak scandal. The chat by top US security officials was mistakenly leaked to the editor of The Atlantic, and the magazine published the whole conversation on the March 15 US strikes targeting Houthis in Yemen.
<h2>What is the buildup in Diego Garcia?</h2>
Diego Garcia hosts one of the key US bases in the Indo-Pacific for its bombers to take off, the other one being Andersen Air Force Base in Guam.
At least five B-2 Spirit jets are in Diego Garcia, said reports based on satellite image and open source intelligence analysis. B-2 bombers are stealth fighter jets known as 'ghosts of the sky'. They can evade air defences and radar detection.
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At least seven C-17A Globemaster IIIs are in Diego Garcia or arriving. Globemasters are military transport aircraft,&nbsp; used for fast delivery of troops and cargo to US bases. The tankers' presence means a large-scale deployment is on the anvil, that will require frequent refuelling.
The globemasters may have transported troops, supplies, arms and ammunition to support the B2 bombers.
<h2>Will Iran attack Diego Garcia first?</h2>
A top Iranian commander warned that US bases and its forces in the region can be targetted in a retaliatory&nbsp; attack. "The Americans have at least 10 bases and 50,000 forces near Iran. This means they are sitting in a glass room. Someone sitting in a glass room would not throw rocks at others," he was quoted as saying in news agency reports.
The Telegraph UK, meanwhile, reported citing some unnamed officials that Iranian armed forces are pushing for a preemptive strike on the Diego Garcia base, located on Chagos Islands.&nbsp;
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&ldquo;Top commanders are being urged to launch preemptive strikes on the island and its base if Trump&rsquo;s threats have become more serious,&rdquo; it quoted the official as saying.
<h2>Is America readying for a long war in the Middle East?&nbsp;</h2>
The US is sending more military assets across its bases and installations including Diego Garcia, according to military analysts, who think it is in preparation for a big strike.
Some 18 US Air Force tankers are being staged in the Pacific - at Travis Air Force Base in California, Daniel K Inouye International Airport in Honolulu and Andersen Air Force Base in Guam.
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This, according to them, suggests that air assets are being moved into the Pacific theater.
On Sunday (Mar 27), US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the US would continue targeting Houthis after the March 15 strikes killed at least 53 people.
(With inputs from agencies)

Trending World | Five B-2 Spirit jets are in Diego Garcia, said reports based on satellite images and intelligence analysis. Will US attack Iran?

A reported buildup of US B2 stealth bomber jets, Globmaster C17 planes, Navy vessels and other American military assets in Diego Garcia base and in the Middle East region is leading to speculations of a possible massive strike by the US targeting Iran or Yemeni Houthis backed by it. This has prompted calls in Iran to bomb Diego Garcia pre-emptively to prevent a direct US strike on the Islamic Republic. The spiralling events come as US President Donald Trump warned of 'real pain' for the Houthis and their alleged supporter, Iran. He has warned of bombings, the likes of which was never seen before. Yemen's Houthi rebels claim attacking US aircraft carrier thrice in last 24 hours The buildup and possible strikes on Iran or Yemen could also be a way for Trump to drive attention away from the recent Signal chat leak scandal. The chat by top US security officials was mistakenly leaked to the editor of The Atlantic, and the magazine published the whole conversation on the March 15 US strikes targeting Houthis in Yemen. What is the buildup in Diego Garcia? Diego Garcia hosts one of the key US bases in the Indo-Pacific for its bombers to take off, the other one being Andersen Air Force Base in Guam. At least five B-2 Spirit jets are in Diego Garcia, said reports based on satellite image and open source intelligence analysis. B-2 bombers are stealth fighter jets known as 'ghosts of the sky'. They can evade air defences and radar detection. Trump vows continued strikes on Yemen's Houthis, warns Iran 'real pain is yet to come' At least seven C-17A Globemaster IIIs are in Diego Garcia or arriving. Globemasters are military transport aircraft, used for fast delivery of troops and cargo to US bases. The tankers' presence means a large-scale deployment is on the anvil, that will require frequent refuelling. The globemasters may have transported troops, supplies, arms and ammunition to support the B2 bombers. Will Iran attack Diego Garcia first? A top Iranian commander warned that US bases and its forces in the region can be targetted in a retaliatory attack. "The Americans have at least 10 bases and 50,000 forces near Iran. This means they are sitting in a glass room. Someone sitting in a glass room would not throw rocks at others," he was quoted as saying in news agency reports. The Telegraph UK, meanwhile, reported citing some unnamed officials that Iranian armed forces are pushing for a preemptive strike on the Diego Garcia base, located on Chagos Islands. 'Demise has arrived': Iranian dissidents, empowered by Trump's 'maximum pressure' policy, demand regime’s fall “Top commanders are being urged to launch preemptive strikes on the island and its base if Trump’s threats have become more serious,” it quoted the official as saying. Is America readying for a long war in the Middle East? The US is sending more military assets across its bases and installations including Diego Garcia, according to military analysts, who think it is in preparation for a big strike. Some 18 US Air Force tankers are being staged in the Pacific - at Travis Air Force Base in California, Daniel K Inouye International Airport in Honolulu and Andersen Air Force Base in Guam. Israel PM picks ex-navy commander Eli Sharvit as new security chief This, according to them, suggests that air assets are being moved into the Pacific theater. On Sunday (Mar 27), US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the US would continue targeting Houthis after the March 15 strikes killed at least 53 people. (With inputs from agencies)

Will Iran attack US base in Diego Garcia as B2 bombers, Globemaster planes land in major military buildup? What we know

At least 298,000 people could&nbsp;die in the event of a mega quake in the Nankai Trough, a government estimate in Japan has forecast. The government's earthquake task force revised its estimate for casualties on Monday (Mar 31), even as the death toll in last week's Myanmar earthquake crossed 1,700.
<h2>Why is Japan preparing for Nankai Trough mega earthquake?</h2>
Nankai Trough, where two tectonic plates meet in the Pacific Ocean, has been the epicentre of some major earthquakes in the past. It is located south of the Nankaidō region of Japan's island of Honshu.
Japan is an earthquake-prone region. Past quakes had triggered tsunamis, the worst recorded one being the 2011 quake-tsunami. The 2011 disaster, &nbsp;the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, was one of the most powerful globally. It had a magnitude of 9.0 or 9.1 and led to the Fukushima nuclear plant meltdown.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-child-pulled-from-rubble-after-60-hours-as-myanmar-earthquake-death-toll-rises-8908853">Watch: Child pulled from rubble after 60 hours as Myanmar earthquake death toll rises</a>
Earthquake drills are a common sight in Japan. The Japanese government and relevant authorities have been making efforts over the years to reduce the damage and loss of life in the event of future quakes.
The estimates on the possible megaquake in Nankai Trough is an effort in this direction. 
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<h2>Nankai Trough mega quake projections in detail</h2>
The current death toll projection of 298,000 is, in fact, a downward revision since the first estimates made in 2012. This still falls below the goal set by the government in 2014 to reduce the death toll by 80 per cent.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/thailand-and-myanmar-earthquake-death-toll-in-bangkok-rises-aftershocks-rattle-mandalay-rescue-work-intensify-8906182">Thailand-Myanmar earthquake: Death toll in Bangkok rises, aftershocks rattle Mandalay; rescue work intensifies</a>
A magnitude 9 quake on a winter night in the Tokai region would see deaths in the prefectures of Shizuoka (101,000), Miyazaki (33,000) and Mie&nbsp; (29,000), said the government estimate.
The new estimates said the evacuees could rise from 9.5 million projected in 2012 to 12.3 million. This is around 10 per cent of Japan's population.&nbsp;
<h2>How will the mega quake feel like in Japan?</h2>
Out of the 298,000 deaths, 215,000 would be caused by a tsunami, as only 20 per cent of people would be able to evacuate immediately.&nbsp;
How many lives can be saved will depend on how fast people are evacuated. A 70 per cent increase in evacuation speed can reduce the death toll to 94,000 from tsunami.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-earthquake-after-myanmar-quake-how-will-delhi-feel-intensity-viii-earthquake-as-it-sits-in-seismic-zone-iv-know-more-8909523">Myanmar earthquake shook Delhi-NCR, but the 'big one' is yet to come: How will Intensity VIII quake in Delhi feel like? Know more</a>
It is estimated that 30 per cent for affected areas will see flooding at the height of&nbsp; 30 centimetres.
The overall death toll is not expected to decline significantly despite seawalls and tsunami evacuation facilities, Kyodo news agency reported citing government data.
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In a first, the government also projected up to 52,000 "disaster-related deaths" due to subsequent health hazards.
The government is implementing a disaster response plan, which includes the creation of a new agency for disaster prevention in 2026.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-earthquake-after-myanmar-quake-how-will-delhi-feel-intensity-viii-earthquake-as-it-sits-in-seismic-zone-iv-know-more-8909523"></a>

Trending World The Nankai Trough, where two tectonic plates meet in the Pacific Ocean, has been the epicentre of some major earthquakes  Japan is backing for the big one

At least 298,000 people could die in the event of a mega quake in the Nankai Trough, a government estimate in Japan has forecast. The government's earthquake task force revised its estimate for casualties on Monday (Mar 31), even as the death toll in last week's Myanmar earthquake crossed 1,700. Why is Japan preparing for Nankai Trough mega earthquake? Nankai Trough, where two tectonic plates meet in the Pacific Ocean, has been the epicentre of some major earthquakes in the past. It is located south of the Nankaidō region of Japan's island of Honshu. Japan is an earthquake-prone region. Past quakes had triggered tsunamis, the worst recorded one being the 2011 quake-tsunami. The 2011 disaster, the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, was one of the most powerful globally. It had a magnitude of 9.0 or 9.1 and led to the Fukushima nuclear plant meltdown. Watch: Child pulled from rubble after 60 hours as Myanmar earthquake death toll rises Earthquake drills are a common sight in Japan. The Japanese government and relevant authorities have been making efforts over the years to reduce the damage and loss of life in the event of future quakes. The estimates on the possible megaquake in Nankai Trough is an effort in this direction. Nankai Trough mega quake projections in detail The current death toll projection of 298,000 is, in fact, a downward revision since the first estimates made in 2012. This still falls below the goal set by the government in 2014 to reduce the death toll by 80 per cent. Thailand-Myanmar earthquake: Death toll in Bangkok rises, aftershocks rattle Mandalay; rescue work intensifies A magnitude 9 quake on a winter night in the Tokai region would see deaths in the prefectures of Shizuoka (101,000), Miyazaki (33,000) and Mie (29,000), said the government estimate. The new estimates said the evacuees could rise from 9.5 million projected in 2012 to 12.3 million. This is around 10 per cent of Japan's population. How will the mega quake feel like in Japan? Out of the 298,000 deaths, 215,000 would be caused by a tsunami, as only 20 per cent of people would be able to evacuate immediately. How many lives can be saved will depend on how fast people are evacuated. A 70 per cent increase in evacuation speed can reduce the death toll to 94,000 from tsunami. Myanmar earthquake shook Delhi-NCR, but the 'big one' is yet to come: How will Intensity VIII quake in Delhi feel like? Know more It is estimated that 30 per cent for affected areas will see flooding at the height of 30 centimetres. The overall death toll is not expected to decline significantly despite seawalls and tsunami evacuation facilities, Kyodo news agency reported citing government data. Myanmar-Thailand earthquake: Over 1600 dead as toll continues to rise; India sends 40 tonnes of aid, and field hospital In a first, the government also projected up to 52,000 "disaster-related deaths" due to subsequent health hazards. The government is implementing a disaster response plan, which includes the creation of a new agency for disaster prevention in 2026.

'Can kill nearly 300,000 people': Japan govt warns on mega earthquake in new forecast. What is Nankai Trough earthquake?

The death toll from last week's 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has gone past 1,700, but Indian cities like Delhi have been spared of major damage. Yet, each time an earthquake in the region causes tremors or aftershocks in the Indian National Capital Region or NCR, we are reminded of how vulnerable the area is to earthquakes. Why is Delhi-NCR facing risk of earthquakes? What is Seismic Zone IV? What will an MMI intensity VIII quake, which is likely to hit Delhi-NCR, feel like? Here is what you should know:
<h2>Delhi is in seismic zone IV. What does it mean?</h2>
Delhi and the NCR region sit in what is classified by the Indian government as Seismic Zone IV.&nbsp;
The Indian classification ranks seismic zones from II to V. Seismic zone II is the least risky, whereas zones IV and V are the worst.&nbsp;
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Seismic Zone IV could witness quakes with magnitudes ranging from 5 to 7, or even 8.&nbsp;
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Speaking in parliament in 2023, the then earth sciences minister Jitendra Singh said that the 'entire area of National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi comes under high seismic hazard.'
The seismic zoning map of India was created by the Bureau of Indian Standards in 2002, which ranked Delhi capital region under Zone IV.
<h2>How will an MMI scale VIII earthquake in Delhi feel like?</h2>
The seismic zone IV is broadly associated with seismic intensity of VIII. Here, we are talking about the measurements as per the Modified Mercalli Intensity or MMI scale.
In broad terms, MMI scale predicts how an earthquake feels to people at a specific location. MMI scale of VIII means 'people will find it difficult to stand, steering of automobiles will be affected, masonry will be damaged or collapse partially.'&nbsp;
The soft soil in parts of Delhi, like the Yamuna floodplain, can amplify seismic waves, making tremors feel stronger.&nbsp;
<h2>Will poorly constructed buildings collapse in Delhi in case of an earthquake?</h2>
In the event of an MMI intensity VIII quake, poorly constructed buildings could be damaged or partially collapse. In the case of Delhi and NCR, there are thousands of such constructions.
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and other nodal agencies have issued strict guidelines on building materials, design and construction of earthquake-proof structures.&nbsp;
However, the frenzy of building residential and commercial buildings in the Delhi-NCR area is there for all to see. Particularly at risk in the event of an earthquake would be places like Gurugram in NCR, which has seen a boom in the construction of skyscrapers in the past two decades.
<h2>How is MMI intensity scale different from the magnitude of a quake?</h2>
The MMI scale measures the intensity of the shaking in specific areas, whereas magnitude measures the level of energy released from the epicentre of a quake.
This means MMI is a subjective scale, predicting how quakes affect people, structures and the natural environment.
MMI scale ranges from I, where earthquakes are not felt at all, to XII, which denotes catastrophic damage.
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How will an MMI intensity VIII quake feel like in Delhi? The Indian minister Jitendra Singh told parliament in 2023 that the intensity felt on buildings could vary according to factors like "the magnitude and focal depth of the earthquake, epicentral distance of the earthquake, type of soil, typology of the building, design and quality of construction of the building."
<h2>A Himalayan danger: At least five seismic fault lines near Delhi</h2>
Complicating the situation is the fact that Delhi sits on at least three main fault lines.&nbsp;
Fault lines are cracks on the Earth's crust where two seismic plates move or brush against each other, releasing energy that translates into earthquakes.&nbsp;
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The main fault lines running below the Indian capital region are the Delhi-Haridwar Ridge and Mahendragarh-Dehradun Fault. There's also the Sohna Fault, Mathura Fault, and the Delhi-Moradabad Fault.&nbsp;
The Indian and Eurasian plates have been colliding with each other in a very slow manner for more than 50 million years. It is this collision that caused the creation of Mount Everest, according to scientists.
Delhi-Haridwar Ridge and the Delhi-Moradabad Fault can cause quakes in India's entire northern regions, including Delhi-NCR. 
<h2>How often do earthquakes hit Delhi?</h2>
In February this year, Delhi-NCR witnessed a 4.0 magnitude earthquake, with the epicentre located within the region. Tremors were felt across the area.&nbsp;
But Delhi has not really been the epicentre of any maojr earthquake for nearly 300 years.&nbsp; Yet, it has felt tremors from several earthquakes in the region that had epicentres from Afghanistan to China to Nepal, and Myanmar this time.
Delhi has felt five earthquakes with magnitudes between 5.5 and 6.7 since 1720. There have been significant quakes in 1831, 1956 and 1960 of moderate intensity, along with numerous smaller ones.&nbsp;
<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-child-pulled-from-rubble-after-60-hours-as-myanmar-earthquake-death-toll-rises-8908853">Watch: Child pulled from rubble after 60 hours as Myanmar earthquake death toll rises</a></h2>
<h2>How is Delhi preparing for an earthquake?</h2>
India's National Disaster Management Authority, or NDMA, regularly conducts awareness campaigns on prevention and preparedness for building safety. There have been periodic mock drills by the special National Disaster Response Force or NDRF for relief and rehabilitation in densely populated areas in Delhi-NCR as well as other earthquake-prone areas in the country.
Over the years, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority has advocated for strict construction codes on buildings.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

World Trending India News The Indian classification ranks seismic zones from II to V. Seismic zone II is the least risky, whereas zones IV and V are the worst.

The death toll from last week's 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has gone past 1,700, but Indian cities like Delhi have been spared of major damage. Yet, each time an earthquake in the region causes tremors or aftershocks in the Indian National Capital Region or NCR, we are reminded of how vulnerable the area is to earthquakes. Why is Delhi-NCR facing risk of earthquakes? What is Seismic Zone IV? What will an MMI intensity VIII quake, which is likely to hit Delhi-NCR, feel like? Here is what you should know: Delhi is in seismic zone IV. What does it mean? Delhi and the NCR region sit in what is classified by the Indian government as Seismic Zone IV. The Indian classification ranks seismic zones from II to V. Seismic zone II is the least risky, whereas zones IV and V are the worst. Myanmar’s military dropped bombs 3 hours after quake devastation; UN slams junta Seismic Zone IV could witness quakes with magnitudes ranging from 5 to 7, or even 8. Speaking in parliament in 2023, the then earth sciences minister Jitendra Singh said that the 'entire area of National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi comes under high seismic hazard.' The seismic zoning map of India was created by the Bureau of Indian Standards in 2002, which ranked Delhi capital region under Zone IV. How will an MMI scale VIII earthquake in Delhi feel like? The seismic zone IV is broadly associated with seismic intensity of VIII. Here, we are talking about the measurements as per the Modified Mercalli Intensity or MMI scale. In broad terms, MMI scale predicts how an earthquake feels to people at a specific location. MMI scale of VIII means 'people will find it difficult to stand, steering of automobiles will be affected, masonry will be damaged or collapse partially.' The soft soil in parts of Delhi, like the Yamuna floodplain, can amplify seismic waves, making tremors feel stronger. Will poorly constructed buildings collapse in Delhi in case of an earthquake? In the event of an MMI intensity VIII quake, poorly constructed buildings could be damaged or partially collapse. In the case of Delhi and NCR, there are thousands of such constructions. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and other nodal agencies have issued strict guidelines on building materials, design and construction of earthquake-proof structures. However, the frenzy of building residential and commercial buildings in the Delhi-NCR area is there for all to see. Particularly at risk in the event of an earthquake would be places like Gurugram in NCR, which has seen a boom in the construction of skyscrapers in the past two decades. How is MMI intensity scale different from the magnitude of a quake? The MMI scale measures the intensity of the shaking in specific areas, whereas magnitude measures the level of energy released from the epicentre of a quake. This means MMI is a subjective scale, predicting how quakes affect people, structures and the natural environment. MMI scale ranges from I, where earthquakes are not felt at all, to XII, which denotes catastrophic damage. Thailand-Myanmar earthquake: Death toll in Bangkok rises, aftershocks rattle Mandalay; rescue work intensifies How will an MMI intensity VIII quake feel like in Delhi? The Indian minister Jitendra Singh told parliament in 2023 that the intensity felt on buildings could vary according to factors like "the magnitude and focal depth of the earthquake, epicentral distance of the earthquake, type of soil, typology of the building, design and quality of construction of the building." A Himalayan danger: At least five seismic fault lines near Delhi Complicating the situation is the fact that Delhi sits on at least three main fault lines. Fault lines are cracks on the Earth's crust where two seismic plates move or brush against each other, releasing energy that translates into earthquakes. Strong 7.1 magnitude earthquake hits near Tonga The main fault lines running below the Indian capital region are the Delhi-Haridwar Ridge and Mahendragarh-Dehradun Fault. There's also the Sohna Fault, Mathura Fault, and the Delhi-Moradabad Fault. The Indian and Eurasian plates have been colliding with each other in a very slow manner for more than 50 million years. It is this collision that caused the creation of Mount Everest, according to scientists. Delhi-Haridwar Ridge and the Delhi-Moradabad Fault can cause quakes in India's entire northern regions, including Delhi-NCR. How often do earthquakes hit Delhi? In February this year, Delhi-NCR witnessed a 4.0 magnitude earthquake, with the epicentre located within the region. Tremors were felt across the area. But Delhi has not really been the epicentre of any maojr earthquake for nearly 300 years. Yet, it has felt tremors from several earthquakes in the region that had epicentres from Afghanistan to China to Nepal, and Myanmar this time. Delhi has felt five earthquakes with magnitudes between 5.5 and 6.7 since 1720. There have been significant quakes in 1831, 1956 and 1960 of moderate intensity, along with numerous smaller ones. Watch: Child pulled from rubble after 60 hours as Myanmar earthquake death toll rises How is Delhi preparing for an earthquake? India's National Disaster Management Authority, or NDMA, regularly conducts awareness campaigns on prevention and preparedness for building safety. There have been periodic mock drills by the special National Disaster Response Force or NDRF for relief and rehabilitation in densely populated areas in Delhi-NCR as well as other earthquake-prone areas in the country. Over the years, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority has advocated for strict construction codes on buildings.

Myanmar earthquake shook Delhi-NCR, but the 'big one' is yet to come: How will Intensity VIII quake in Delhi feel like? Know more

Musk Wisconsin town hall cheque distribution:&nbsp;Openly giving away cash for votes may not be something one would expect to see in the US, but X chief Elon Musk just did that in Wisconsin. The world's richest person on Sunday night (Mar 30) gave away cheques worth 2 million dollars in Wisconsin ahead of the state's closely-watched Supreme Court election.
Musk was heckled at the town hall event, but he was unfazed, blaming it on alleged sleeper agents of another billionaire, George Soros.
<h2>Why is Wisconsin's Supreme Court election important?</h2>
The Supreme Court election for Wisconsin is set for Tuesday. The tight race became the talk of the town after Musk and US President Donald Trump openly favoured a Republican contender. The campaign became the most expensive in the US judicial election history.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/slimy-billionaire-elon-musk-blasted-for-buying-votes-in-wisconsin-court-election-as-trump-backs-brad-schimel-8880989">'Slimy billionaire': Elon Musk blasted for &lsquo;buying votes&rsquo; in Wisconsin court election as Trump backs Brad Schimel</a>
The Supreme Court race is important as the attempt is to give its control to Republican-leaning judges.
Musk had announced the giveaway earlier this week ahead of the court election.&nbsp;The giveaway is controversial, as the state bans gifts for votes.
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2803_ARJUN_ELECTION_8PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2803_ARJUN_ELECTION_8PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=128&amp;tags=wisconsin, judge election, judicial election," title="Wisconsin judicial election on April 1 " id="PL_iframe_block-m8woe2au-a2nji3fb-dd25fh98"></iframe>
It was challenged in the Wisconsin Supreme Court by Wisconsin Attorney General and Democrat Josh Kaul, but the court refused to intervene.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/x-sold-its-new-boss-iselon-musk-billionaire-sells-social-media-platform-to-his-own-company-xai-8903161">X sold! It's new boss is....Elon Musk; Billionaire sells social media platform to his&nbsp;own&nbsp;company&nbsp;xAI</a>
The cheques were given after a draw among those who signed a petition to stop activist judges from being elected.
"We just want judges to be judges", said Musk before handing out two $1 million cheques.&nbsp;
Musk's lawyers claimed in court that the blocking of the donation amounted to curbing Musk's right to political speech and freedom of expression rights guaranteed under the US Consitution's First Amendment.&nbsp;They argued that the payment was for a 'grassroots movement' against activist judges and not to favour any specific candidate.
<h2>So who are the Wisconsin Supreme Court election candidates?</h2>
Musk is backing Waukesha County Judge Brad Schimel, a conservative, who is fighting Dane County Judge Susan Crawford. Schimel is backed by Musk and Trump. Crawford has the support of the state Supreme Court's liberal judges.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/musk-daughter-calls-tesla-chief-insecure-buffoon-says-mars-colonisation-plans-a-marketing-scheme-tesla-chief-8906520">Musk's daughter calls Tesla chief &lsquo;insecure buffoon&rsquo;, says Mars colonisation plans a &lsquo;marketing scheme&rsquo;</a>
Musk, through his lawyers, had accused the Democratic-leaning judges backing Crawford of bias. Musk has already contributed $14 million to Judge Schimel's campaign.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/done-with-cost-cutting-elon-musk-to-exit-doge-in-may-8905029">&lsquo;Done with cost cutting&rsquo;: Elon Musk to exit DOGE in May?</a>
Overall, an estimated $81mn is being spent by both sides in the election campaign, which makes it the most expensive in US judicial election history.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

Trending | World : Musk wades into another election: The Wisconsin Supreme Court race is important as Republicans want to give its control to conservative judges.

Musk Wisconsin town hall cheque distribution: Openly giving away cash for votes may not be something one would expect to see in the US, but X chief Elon Musk just did that in Wisconsin. The world's richest person on Sunday night (Mar 30) gave away cheques worth 2 million dollars in Wisconsin ahead of the state's closely-watched Supreme Court election. Musk was heckled at the town hall event, but he was unfazed, blaming it on alleged sleeper agents of another billionaire, George Soros. Why is Wisconsin's Supreme Court election important? The Supreme Court election for Wisconsin is set for Tuesday. The tight race became the talk of the town after Musk and US President Donald Trump openly favoured a Republican contender. The campaign became the most expensive in the US judicial election history. 'Slimy billionaire': Elon Musk blasted for ‘buying votes’ in Wisconsin court election as Trump backs Brad Schimel The Supreme Court race is important as the attempt is to give its control to Republican-leaning judges. Musk had announced the giveaway earlier this week ahead of the court election. The giveaway is controversial, as the state bans gifts for votes. It was challenged in the Wisconsin Supreme Court by Wisconsin Attorney General and Democrat Josh Kaul, but the court refused to intervene. X sold! It's new boss is....Elon Musk; Billionaire sells social media platform to his own company xAI The cheques were given after a draw among those who signed a petition to stop activist judges from being elected. "We just want judges to be judges", said Musk before handing out two $1 million cheques. Musk's lawyers claimed in court that the blocking of the donation amounted to curbing Musk's right to political speech and freedom of expression rights guaranteed under the US Consitution's First Amendment. They argued that the payment was for a 'grassroots movement' against activist judges and not to favour any specific candidate. So who are the Wisconsin Supreme Court election candidates? Musk is backing Waukesha County Judge Brad Schimel, a conservative, who is fighting Dane County Judge Susan Crawford. Schimel is backed by Musk and Trump. Crawford has the support of the state Supreme Court's liberal judges. Musk's daughter calls Tesla chief ‘insecure buffoon’, says Mars colonisation plans a ‘marketing scheme’ Musk, through his lawyers, had accused the Democratic-leaning judges backing Crawford of bias. Musk has already contributed $14 million to Judge Schimel's campaign. ‘Done with cost cutting’: Elon Musk to exit DOGE in May? Overall, an estimated $81mn is being spent by both sides in the election campaign, which makes it the most expensive in US judicial election history. (With inputs from agencies)

Cash for vote, American style: Musk gives away million-dollar cheques ahead of Wisconsin Supreme Court election

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