Indian Army Chief General M M Naravane is on a two-day visit to the Jammu region where the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of White Knight Corps will give him an update on security situation and operational preparedness, the Indian Army said.

The Indian Army said on Twitter on Monday: "General MM Naravane, COAS (Chief of Army Staff) is on a two-day visit to Jammu Region wherein GOC White Knight Corps will give an update on security situation and operational preparedness."

"COAS will visit forward areas and interact with troops and commanders on ground," it added.&nbsp;

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General MM Naravane <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COAS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COAS</a> is on a two day visit to Jammu Region wherein GOC White Knight Corps will give an update on security situation and operational preparedness. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COAS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COAS</a> will visit forward areas and interact with troops and commanders on ground. <a href="https://t.co/duufoKOCUT">pic.twitter.com/duufoKOCUT</a>
— ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi/status/1450047467404267526?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Army chief's visit comes in the backdrop of a spate of non-local civilian killings by terrorists.

Terrorists shot dead two non-local labourers and injured another on Sunday in Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir, the latest in the series of attacks targeting civilians.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-seven-terrorists-killed-in-five-operations-in-24-hours-420120">Jammu and Kashmir: Seven terrorists killed in five operations in 24 hours</a>

This was the third attack on non-local labourers in less than 24 hours. A street vendor from Bihar and a carpenter from Uttar Pradesh were shot dead by the ultras on Saturday evening.

Amid the spate of civilian killings, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had on Sunday vowed to avenge every drop of their blood by hunting down terrorists and their sympathisers.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Army Chief General M M Naravane is on a two-day visit to the Jammu region where the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of White Knight Corps will give him an update on security situation and operational preparedness, the Indian Army said.

Indian Army Chief General M M Naravane is on a two-day visit to the Jammu region where the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of White Knight Corps will give him an update on security situation and operational preparedness, the Indian Army said. The Indian Army said on Twitter on Monday: "General MM Naravane, COAS (Chief of Army Staff) is on a two-day visit to Jammu Region wherein GOC White Knight Corps will give an update on security situation and operational preparedness." "COAS will visit forward areas and interact with troops and commanders on ground," it added. General MM Naravane #COAS is on a two day visit to Jammu Region wherein GOC White Knight Corps will give an update on security situation and operational preparedness. #COAS will visit forward areas and interact with troops and commanders on ground. pic.twitter.com/duufoKOCUT — ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) October 18, 2021 × The Army chief's visit comes in the backdrop of a spate of non-local civilian killings by terrorists. Terrorists shot dead two non-local labourers and injured another on Sunday in Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir, the latest in the series of attacks targeting civilians. Also Read | Jammu and Kashmir: Seven terrorists killed in five operations in 24 hours This was the third attack on non-local labourers in less than 24 hours. A street vendor from Bihar and a carpenter from Uttar Pradesh were shot dead by the ultras on Saturday evening. Amid the spate of civilian killings, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had on Sunday vowed to avenge every drop of their blood by hunting down terrorists and their sympathisers. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid civilian killings, Indian Army chief visits Jammu to review security situation

In pics | Indo-US joint army training exercise underway in Alaska

Four CRPF personnel were injured in a minor explosion after a container of detonators being shifted by them into a train accidentally slipped inside a coach when they were boarding it at railway station in India's easter Raipur state on Saturday morning, police said.

The special train was scheduled to carry the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel to northern Jammu from Raipur, they said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nihang-group-confesses-to-murder-of-man-at-singhu-border-421019">Nihang group confesses to murder of man at Singhu Border​</a>​​​​​​

"A minor explosion was recorded in a special train of CRPF at Raipur railway station around 6.30 am today. The train was heading to Jammu from Jharsuguda (Odisha)," Raipur Superintendent of Police (SP) Prashant Agrawal said.

Four personnel suffered minor injuries in the incident, of whom head constable Chouhan Vikas Laxman was admitted to a private hospital here, while others left for their destination after being administered first aid, he added.

"The explosion occurred during the shifting of a container carrying detonators and HD cartridges. While shifting the container in train, it accidentally slipped in coach number-9, which led to the blast," Agrawal said.

Four CRPF personnel were injured in a minor explosion after a container of detonators being shifted by them into a train accidentally slipped inside a coach when they were boarding it at railway station in India's easter Raipur state on Saturday morning, police said.

Four CRPF personnel were injured in a minor explosion after a container of detonators being shifted by them into a train accidentally slipped inside a coach when they were boarding it at railway station in India's easter Raipur state on Saturday morning, police said. The special train was scheduled to carry the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel to northern Jammu from Raipur, they said. Also Read | Nihang group confesses to murder of man at Singhu Border "A minor explosion was recorded in a special train of CRPF at Raipur railway station around 6.30 am today. The train was heading to Jammu from Jharsuguda (Odisha)," Raipur Superintendent of Police (SP) Prashant Agrawal said. Four personnel suffered minor injuries in the incident, of whom head constable Chouhan Vikas Laxman was admitted to a private hospital here, while others left for their destination after being administered first aid, he added. "The explosion occurred during the shifting of a container carrying detonators and HD cartridges. While shifting the container in train, it accidentally slipped in coach number-9, which led to the blast," Agrawal said.

4 para military personnel injured in accidental blast as container of detonators slips while boarding train

A counter insurgency operation entered the fifth day on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts as the Army deployed para commandos to eliminate terrorists whose exact number is still not known.

Police sources said traffic on the Poonch-Rajouri highway remained closed in Bhimber Gali area for the third straight day.

Also Read |&nbsp;Malabar exercise focuses on free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region: Karambir Singh

Five soldiers, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), were killed in the first exchange of gunfire between the combing troops and the terrorists on Tuesday.

On Friday, two soldiers were killed, while reports said a JCO who was missing.

But there has been no official confirmation on the missing JCO.

Para commandos have been deployed in the densely forested Nar Khas area where the two soldiers were killed on Friday.

Defence sources said initially the operation had started following reports that three terrorists and a local guide were seen in the Dhera Ki Gali (DKG) area.

Also Read |&nbsp;'Hybrid or part time terrorists': A new challenge for security forces

"After the firing exchanges started in Mendhar area while the engagement with the terrorists was going on in DGK area, it is likely that there are two groups of terrorists, one operating in Poonch district and the other in Rajouri district.

"The exact number of terrorists would be known after they are eliminated," the defence sources said.

They added that two locals have been detained by police for questioning in connection with providing food and shelter to the terrorists.

A counter insurgency operation entered the fifth day on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts as the Army deployed para commandos to eliminate terrorists whose exact number is still not known.

A counter insurgency operation entered the fifth day on Saturday in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts as the Army deployed para commandos to eliminate terrorists whose exact number is still not known. Police sources said traffic on the Poonch-Rajouri highway remained closed in Bhimber Gali area for the third straight day. Also Read | Malabar exercise focuses on free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region: Karambir Singh Five soldiers, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), were killed in the first exchange of gunfire between the combing troops and the terrorists on Tuesday. On Friday, two soldiers were killed, while reports said a JCO who was missing. But there has been no official confirmation on the missing JCO. Para commandos have been deployed in the densely forested Nar Khas area where the two soldiers were killed on Friday. Defence sources said initially the operation had started following reports that three terrorists and a local guide were seen in the Dhera Ki Gali (DKG) area. Also Read | 'Hybrid or part time terrorists': A new challenge for security forces "After the firing exchanges started in Mendhar area while the engagement with the terrorists was going on in DGK area, it is likely that there are two groups of terrorists, one operating in Poonch district and the other in Rajouri district. "The exact number of terrorists would be known after they are eliminated," the defence sources said. They added that two locals have been detained by police for questioning in connection with providing food and shelter to the terrorists.

Anti-terror operation in India's Jammu and Kashmir enters 5th day

Lebanon’s sputtering national electricity grid went back online Sunday after the army provided emergency fuel supplies to the government, temporarily easing a daylong outage that served as the latest ramification of the country’s economic collapse.

The two main power plants, chronically short of fuel, had been providing only a few hours of electricity per day before Saturday, when they ran out of fuel and stopped working completely.

Walid Fayyad, the energy minister, said in a statement Sunday that the army had supplied fuel from its reserves to the power plants, Zahrani and Deir Ammar, and that the network had resumed “normal” operation — suggesting it would go back to producing a few hours of power per day.

Even so, the emergency supplies are expected to last only a few days. Fayyad said that Lebanon’s central bank had freed up $100 million to be used to import fuel, which would help raise electricity generation by the end of the month.

He thanked the defense minister, the army commander and the leaders of Electricité du Liban, the national energy company, for their “rapid response to reconnecting the electrical network.”

The outage Saturday had little immediate effect on the lives of most Lebanese, who have grown accustomed to blackouts and fuel shortages as the country suffers one of the gravest economic crises in recent history. The government has struggled to import fuel as the national currency has shed 90% of its value in the past two years. Prices for many goods have tripled.

“We have forgotten what electricity means,” said Abdul-Hadi al-Sibai, a 70-year-old taxi driver in southern Beirut.

He lives with his sister, who decided to cut off her generator connection after a bill of 1.8 million Lebanese pounds, which is about $100 on the black market but more than the monthly salaries of many Lebanese.

The currency crash and resulting inflation has forced the family to give up refrigerated foods, so they eat mostly on lentils and grains. Al-Sibai charges his cellphone using his car’s battery.

The crisis has presented an opportunity for Iran, and its proxy in Lebanon, the militant group Hezbollah, to portray themselves as stepping in where other powers have failed.

In recent weeks, Iran has sent fuel by tanker ship to Syria, where Hezbollah organized caravans to drive it into Lebanon. The whole operation defies sanctions by the United States on the purchase of Iranian oil and has happened entirely outside of the Lebanese state.

Visiting Lebanon last week, Iran’s foreign minister, Hossein Amir Abdollahian, said Iran was ready to build two new power plants in Beirut and southern Lebanon able to meet a third of the country’s electricity demands.

Critics say Iran and its allies are more interested in media stunts than in real aid, that the fuel it has sent is little in comparison to Lebanon’s needs and that the proposed Iranian power plants are unlikely to ever be built.

The United States has thrown its support behind plans to have natural gas sent via pipeline from Jordan through Syria to Lebanon, or to have electricity generated in Jordan transmitted to Lebanon. But many details of those plans have yet to be worked out, including who will pay to fix the necessary infrastructure, so any benefit for Lebanon is at best months away.

Most Lebanese rely on private generators for electricity, but many have been forced to cut back on that, too, or give it up altogether, as fuel costs have soared.

Fatima Baydoun, a 50-year-old mother of three in Beirut, said her family had not been able to afford electricity from a generator because her husband, a security guard, has been out of work for more than a year. Without government-supplied electricity, she can’t use the washing machine, and her family’s taps have run dry because the water pump relies on power.

“We try to sleep as early as possible,” she said.

Lebanon’s sputtering national electricity grid went back online Sunday after the army provided emergency fuel supplies to the government, temporarily easing a daylong outage that served as the latest ramification of the country’s economic collapse.

Lebanon’s sputtering national electricity grid went back online Sunday after the army provided emergency fuel supplies to the government, temporarily easing a daylong outage that served as the latest ramification of the country’s economic collapse. The two main power plants, chronically short of fuel, had been providing only a few hours of electricity per day before Saturday, when they ran out of fuel and stopped working completely. Walid Fayyad, the energy minister, said in a statement Sunday that the army had supplied fuel from its reserves to the power plants, Zahrani and Deir Ammar, and that the network had resumed “normal” operation — suggesting it would go back to producing a few hours of power per day. Even so, the emergency supplies are expected to last only a few days. Fayyad said that Lebanon’s central bank had freed up $100 million to be used to import fuel, which would help raise electricity generation by the end of the month. He thanked the defense minister, the army commander and the leaders of Electricité du Liban, the national energy company, for their “rapid response to reconnecting the electrical network.” The outage Saturday had little immediate effect on the lives of most Lebanese, who have grown accustomed to blackouts and fuel shortages as the country suffers one of the gravest economic crises in recent history. The government has struggled to import fuel as the national currency has shed 90% of its value in the past two years. Prices for many goods have tripled. “We have forgotten what electricity means,” said Abdul-Hadi al-Sibai, a 70-year-old taxi driver in southern Beirut. He lives with his sister, who decided to cut off her generator connection after a bill of 1.8 million Lebanese pounds, which is about $100 on the black market but more than the monthly salaries of many Lebanese. The currency crash and resulting inflation has forced the family to give up refrigerated foods, so they eat mostly on lentils and grains. Al-Sibai charges his cellphone using his car’s battery. The crisis has presented an opportunity for Iran, and its proxy in Lebanon, the militant group Hezbollah, to portray themselves as stepping in where other powers have failed. In recent weeks, Iran has sent fuel by tanker ship to Syria, where Hezbollah organized caravans to drive it into Lebanon. The whole operation defies sanctions by the United States on the purchase of Iranian oil and has happened entirely outside of the Lebanese state. Visiting Lebanon last week, Iran’s foreign minister, Hossein Amir Abdollahian, said Iran was ready to build two new power plants in Beirut and southern Lebanon able to meet a third of the country’s electricity demands. Critics say Iran and its allies are more interested in media stunts than in real aid, that the fuel it has sent is little in comparison to Lebanon’s needs and that the proposed Iranian power plants are unlikely to ever be built. The United States has thrown its support behind plans to have natural gas sent via pipeline from Jordan through Syria to Lebanon, or to have electricity generated in Jordan transmitted to Lebanon. But many details of those plans have yet to be worked out, including who will pay to fix the necessary infrastructure, so any benefit for Lebanon is at best months away. Most Lebanese rely on private generators for electricity, but many have been forced to cut back on that, too, or give it up altogether, as fuel costs have soared. Fatima Baydoun, a 50-year-old mother of three in Beirut, said her family had not been able to afford electricity from a generator because her husband, a security guard, has been out of work for more than a year. Without government-supplied electricity, she can’t use the washing machine, and her family’s taps have run dry because the water pump relies on power. “We try to sleep as early as possible,” she said.

Electricity is restored in Lebanon as army supplies emergency fuel

Tensions and fears of a significant military conflict between nuclear-armed neighbours India and Pakistan remain high, with continuous ceasefire violations by Pakistan in Kashmir and a heightened danger of terrorist activities by Pakistan-based terrorist&nbsp;organisations. 
 
Although India's conventional forces are far more powerful than Pakistan's, the two nations' nuclear arsenals are comparable. 
 
The transfer of Islamist forces and proxy organisations from Afghanistan to Kashmir threatens to exacerbate border conflict. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-is-the-tea-internet-wonders-if-india-trolled-pakistan-by-giving-tea-to-captured-terrorist-416846">Also read | How is the tea? Internet wonders if India trolled Pakistan by giving tea to captured terrorist</a> 
 
In the last seventy years, the two armies have battled four times. 
 
In the current scenario, there is a red line somewhere, albeit a hypothetical one, that if crossed might lead to war. 
 
According to the most recent study from Global Firepower Ranking, the military might of India and Pakistan is completely unmatched. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/there-is-peace-in-kashmir-pakistan-army-misguides-us-says-arrested-teenage-terrorist-416810">Also read | There is peace in Kashmir, Pakistan Army misguides us, says arrested teenage terrorist</a> 
 
In terms of the total power index, India is only behind the United States, Russia, and China, while Pakistan is far behind in 10th place. 
 
This is how their militaries compare:

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Countries</td>
			<td>India</td>
			<td>Pakistan</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Global Firepower&nbsp;ranking</td>
			<td>4</td>
			<td>10</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Active personnel</td>
			<td>1,455,550</td>
			<td>654,000</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Defence budget</td>
			<td>$73,650,000,000</td>
			<td>$12,275,000,000</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Fighter aircraft</td>
			<td>542</td>
			<td>357</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Helicopters</td>
			<td>775</td>
			<td>331</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Combat Tank strength</td>
			<td>4730</td>
			<td>2680</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Submarines</td>
			<td>17</td>
			<td>9</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Naval Destroyers</td>
			<td>10</td>
			<td>0</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Airports</td>
			<td>346</td>
			<td>151</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Ports &amp; Terminals</td>
			<td>13</td>
			<td>2</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Aircraft Carriers</td>
			<td>1</td>
			<td>0</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

(Source: globalfirepower.com) 
 
Pakistan lags considerably below India's military might on every metric, including land, air, and sea.

In comparison to the Indian military, Pakistan has just half the personnel. Pakistan cannot compete with India in terms of battle tanks or other munitions.

Being 'aggressive' was Pakistan's way of life — their arrogance led to a series of blundering miscalculations, a series of humiliating setbacks, and the gradual realisation that their war machine was not as effective as they believed it was.

The feeling of shame leads to bad behaviour and immoral types of combat, one of which is terrorism. Pakistan is currently unclear about how to defend its land, so it is creating religious mercenaries with barbaric beliefs in order to achieve an impossible objective.

The Pakistan Army has repeatedly humiliated its people while maintaining control over them by denying them education and keeping them religiously enslaved. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Tensions and fears of a significant military conflict between nuclear-armed neighbours India and Pakistan remain high, with continuous ceasefire violations by Pakistan in Kashmir and a heightened danger of terrorist activities by Pakistan-based terrorist organisations.

Tensions and fears of a significant military conflict between nuclear-armed neighbours India and Pakistan remain high, with continuous ceasefire violations by Pakistan in Kashmir and a heightened danger of terrorist activities by Pakistan-based terrorist organisations. Although India's conventional forces are far more powerful than Pakistan's, the two nations' nuclear arsenals are comparable. The transfer of Islamist forces and proxy organisations from Afghanistan to Kashmir threatens to exacerbate border conflict. Also read | How is the tea? Internet wonders if India trolled Pakistan by giving tea to captured terrorist In the last seventy years, the two armies have battled four times. In the current scenario, there is a red line somewhere, albeit a hypothetical one, that if crossed might lead to war. According to the most recent study from Global Firepower Ranking, the military might of India and Pakistan is completely unmatched. Also read | There is peace in Kashmir, Pakistan Army misguides us, says arrested teenage terrorist In terms of the total power index, India is only behind the United States, Russia, and China, while Pakistan is far behind in 10th place. This is how their militaries compare: Countries India Pakistan Global Firepower ranking 4 10 Active personnel 1,455,550 654,000 Defence budget $73,650,000,000 $12,275,000,000 Fighter aircraft 542 357 Helicopters 775 331 Combat Tank strength 4730 2680 Submarines 17 9 Naval Destroyers 10 0 Airports 346 151 Ports & Terminals 13 2 Aircraft Carriers 1 0 (Source: globalfirepower.com) Pakistan lags considerably below India's military might on every metric, including land, air, and sea. In comparison to the Indian military, Pakistan has just half the personnel. Pakistan cannot compete with India in terms of battle tanks or other munitions. Being 'aggressive' was Pakistan's way of life — their arrogance led to a series of blundering miscalculations, a series of humiliating setbacks, and the gradual realisation that their war machine was not as effective as they believed it was. The feeling of shame leads to bad behaviour and immoral types of combat, one of which is terrorism. Pakistan is currently unclear about how to defend its land, so it is creating religious mercenaries with barbaric beliefs in order to achieve an impossible objective. The Pakistan Army has repeatedly humiliated its people while maintaining control over them by denying them education and keeping them religiously enslaved. (With inputs from agencies)

India Army vs Pakistan Army: How two military forces stack up against each other

India’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) has placed an order worth Rs 75.23 billion with Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF), Avadi, Chennai for supply of 118 main battle tanks (MBTs) Arjun Mk-1A for the Indian Army on Thursday.

Watch:&nbsp;

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In a further boost to the ‘Make in India’ initiative in defence sector, the order will also be a big step towards achieving ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, or self-reliant India, which has been envisioned by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-talking-technology-with-leading-american-ceos-from-key-sectors-415274" hreflang="en">PM Narendra Modi 'talking technology' with leading American CEOs from key sectors</a>

The state-of-the-art MBT Mk-1A is a new variant of Arjun Tank. Designed to enhance fire power, mobility and survivability, the tank has been infused with 72 new features and more indigenous content from the Mk-1 variant. Besides precise target engagement during day and night, it can also ensure effortless mobility in all terrains, the defence ministry said in a release.

The Arjun Mk-1A has been designed and developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) by incorporating numerous upgrades on Arjun MBT, the in-service main battle tank with the Indian Army. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/differently-abled-people-with-restricted-mobility-to-get-covid-vaccine-jabs-at-homes-indian-govt-415275" hreflang="en">Differently-abled, people with restricted mobility to get Covid vaccine jabs at homes: Indian Govt</a>

This production order to HVF, Avadi opens up a large avenue in defence manufacturing for over 200 Indian vendors including MSMEs, with employment opportunities to around 8,000 people. This will be a flagship project showcasing the indigenous capability in cutting edge defence technologies.&nbsp;

India’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) has placed an order worth Rs 75.23 billion with Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF), Avadi, Chennai for supply of 118 main battle tanks (MBTs) Arjun Mk-1A for the Indian Army on Thursday.

India’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) has placed an order worth Rs 75.23 billion with Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF), Avadi, Chennai for supply of 118 main battle tanks (MBTs) Arjun Mk-1A for the Indian Army on Thursday. Watch: × In a further boost to the ‘Make in India’ initiative in defence sector, the order will also be a big step towards achieving ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, or self-reliant India, which has been envisioned by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Also Read: PM Narendra Modi 'talking technology' with leading American CEOs from key sectors The state-of-the-art MBT Mk-1A is a new variant of Arjun Tank. Designed to enhance fire power, mobility and survivability, the tank has been infused with 72 new features and more indigenous content from the Mk-1 variant. Besides precise target engagement during day and night, it can also ensure effortless mobility in all terrains, the defence ministry said in a release. The Arjun Mk-1A has been designed and developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) by incorporating numerous upgrades on Arjun MBT, the in-service main battle tank with the Indian Army. Also Read | Differently-abled, people with restricted mobility to get Covid vaccine jabs at homes: Indian Govt This production order to HVF, Avadi opens up a large avenue in defence manufacturing for over 200 Indian vendors including MSMEs, with employment opportunities to around 8,000 people. This will be a flagship project showcasing the indigenous capability in cutting edge defence technologies.

In boost to self reliance, India’s defence ministry orders 118 main battle tanks Arjun Mk-1A for army

A reported shooting at the US&nbsp;Army's highly secure Ft. Meade base north of Washington Thursday was just an exercise, with no casualties as originally reported, a base official said.

Andrew Arconti, chief of plans and operations at the base, told AFP that the ostensible incident was a planned exercise for such emergencies, after another official had confirmed the incident to AFP.

"The reports of a shooting at Fort Meade are false. This was a planned exercise," the base said in a subsequent statement.

Initially, various base officials had confirmed to US media that there had been an "active shooter" who had been "contained."

The initial reports drew attention because Ft. Meade, in Maryland, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of Washington, is home to the government's largest and most secretive signals intelligence agency, the National Security Agency, as well as the US Cyber Command, which conducts offensive and defensive cyber operations.

A reported shooting at the US Army's highly secure Ft. Meade base north of Washington Thursday was just an exercise, with no casualties as originally reported, a base official said.

A reported shooting at the US Army's highly secure Ft. Meade base north of Washington Thursday was just an exercise, with no casualties as originally reported, a base official said. Andrew Arconti, chief of plans and operations at the base, told AFP that the ostensible incident was a planned exercise for such emergencies, after another official had confirmed the incident to AFP. "The reports of a shooting at Fort Meade are false. This was a planned exercise," the base said in a subsequent statement. Initially, various base officials had confirmed to US media that there had been an "active shooter" who had been "contained." The initial reports drew attention because Ft. Meade, in Maryland, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of Washington, is home to the government's largest and most secretive signals intelligence agency, the National Security Agency, as well as the US Cyber Command, which conducts offensive and defensive cyber operations.

'Shooting' at US army base was an 'exercise,' no casualties: Official

On September 10, the Indian navy carried out a maritime partnership exercise with the Sudanese navy in the Red Sea. Despite building a strong energy partnership in the 2000s, it was the first time that Indian and Sudanese navies conducted such an exercise. From the Indian side, INS Tabar participated in the exercise along with the Sudanese ships Almazz and Nimar.

IN PICS|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/simbex-india-singapore-naval-drill-in-south-china-sea-410815" hreflang="en">SIMBEX: India-Singapore naval drill in South China Sea</a> 
 
The exercise included `multiple activities covering a wide range of naval operations such as `co-ordinated manoeuvring, replenishment at sea [RAS] drills, helo operations, operations for interdicting suspect vessels at sea and communication procedures.` The exercise `enhanced interoperability between the two navies significantly and widened the scope for combined operations against common maritime threats in future.` 
 
INS Tabar is on an overseas deployment to Europe and Africa. Apart from Sudan, it has also conducted naval exercises with the Egyptian navy in the Mediterranean. Egypt and Sudan are important players in the geopolitics of the Red Sea and due to their proximity with the Suez Canal, are located along one of the most important maritime routes. Therefore, both of these exercises are of significant strategic import and point towards the expanding maritime horizons of the Indian navy. 
 
Red Sea Geopolitics 
 
The Red Sea links West Asia with Africa and is a critical geopolitical space where the rivalries between the Gulf powers are being played out. The Red Sea also links the Indian Ocean to the Mediterranean through the strait of Bab-el-Mandeb and Suez Canal. Large quantities of oil and trade pass through the Red Sea. It is a critical waterway for global energy security and the international economy. The recent blockage of the Suez Canal underscored the strategically important role of the Red Sea and Suez Canal for the global economy. 
 
In the last few years, the Red Sea has emerged as a critical sub-theatre in the evolving geopolitics of the Western Indian Ocean (WIO). Foreign powers have established their military presence in the region and are taking a greater interest in the affairs of the maritime as well as continental space in and around the Red Sea. Russia, China, the United States (US), France, and Japan hold military facilities in the region. Even the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia are active in shaping the trajectory of regional geopolitics and security. 
 
In fact, the presence of security threats such as terrorism and maritime piracy brought foreign powers to the region. US established its expansive network of bases in the WIO and Africa including at Djibouti after launching the Global War on Terror. Maritime piracy in the Gulf of Aden around 2007-08 was threatening global shipping and Somalia was unable to contain pirates operating out of its territorial waters. Therefore, a multinational maritime security effort was launched. The navies of major powers including Russia, China, Japan, and South Korea sent their warships to the region to participate in the anti-piracy operations. 
 
Indian Naval Presence 
 
The Indian navy too played a key role in the counter-piracy operations. India is a resident naval power with a willingness and desire to contribute towards the maintenance of regional security in the Indian Ocean including in the sub-theater of the Northwest Indian Ocean. Over the years, India has managed to regularize its maritime presence in the Gulf of Aden and Southwest Indian Ocean. Time and again, India has extended much-needed humanitarian assistance to the littoral states in the region. India has also positioned itself as the `preferred security partner` in the region. 
 
Indian navy is uniquely placed in the regional geopolitics of the Northwest Indian Ocean. It enjoys close relationship with the US, Japan, and France, and consequently, the Indian navy ships can access their naval bases in Djibouti. Russia`s upcoming naval base at Port Sudan also opens up opportunities for greater collaboration between Indian and Russian navies in the Red Sea and WIO. 
 
India`s deepening strategic partnership with UAE could be strengthened further in the domain of maritime security in the context of the geopolitics of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. India and Taiwan share an interest in containing Chinese power. The Taiwanese presence in Somaliland and UAE`s facilities along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden including Berbera could be leveraged for keeping a close watch on the Chinese activities in the region. 
 
The entire region lying between the Suez Canal and Japan is seeing an expanding Indian maritime footprint. The growing interest in the region is demonstrated by regularly deploying warships for conducting naval exercises with friendly countries and for carrying out defence diplomacy. As a result, the Indian navy is indicating that Western Pacific and the Red Sea are emerging as integral parts of its strategic dynamics. The naval exercises with Egyptian and Sudanese navies demonstrate the expanding strategic maritime horizons and underscore the growing salience of the Red Sea in India`s security matrix.

On September 10, the Indian navy carried out a maritime partnership exercise with the Sudanese navy in the Red Sea. Despite building a strong energy partnership in the 2000s, it was the first time that Indian and Sudanese navies conducted such an exercise.

On September 10, the Indian navy carried out a maritime partnership exercise with the Sudanese navy in the Red Sea. Despite building a strong energy partnership in the 2000s, it was the first time that Indian and Sudanese navies conducted such an exercise. From the Indian side, INS Tabar participated in the exercise along with the Sudanese ships Almazz and Nimar. IN PICS| SIMBEX: India-Singapore naval drill in South China Sea The exercise included `multiple activities covering a wide range of naval operations such as `co-ordinated manoeuvring, replenishment at sea [RAS] drills, helo operations, operations for interdicting suspect vessels at sea and communication procedures.` The exercise `enhanced interoperability between the two navies significantly and widened the scope for combined operations against common maritime threats in future.` INS Tabar is on an overseas deployment to Europe and Africa. Apart from Sudan, it has also conducted naval exercises with the Egyptian navy in the Mediterranean. Egypt and Sudan are important players in the geopolitics of the Red Sea and due to their proximity with the Suez Canal, are located along one of the most important maritime routes. Therefore, both of these exercises are of significant strategic import and point towards the expanding maritime horizons of the Indian navy. Red Sea Geopolitics The Red Sea links West Asia with Africa and is a critical geopolitical space where the rivalries between the Gulf powers are being played out. The Red Sea also links the Indian Ocean to the Mediterranean through the strait of Bab-el-Mandeb and Suez Canal. Large quantities of oil and trade pass through the Red Sea. It is a critical waterway for global energy security and the international economy. The recent blockage of the Suez Canal underscored the strategically important role of the Red Sea and Suez Canal for the global economy. In the last few years, the Red Sea has emerged as a critical sub-theatre in the evolving geopolitics of the Western Indian Ocean (WIO). Foreign powers have established their military presence in the region and are taking a greater interest in the affairs of the maritime as well as continental space in and around the Red Sea. Russia, China, the United States (US), France, and Japan hold military facilities in the region. Even the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia are active in shaping the trajectory of regional geopolitics and security. In fact, the presence of security threats such as terrorism and maritime piracy brought foreign powers to the region. US established its expansive network of bases in the WIO and Africa including at Djibouti after launching the Global War on Terror. Maritime piracy in the Gulf of Aden around 2007-08 was threatening global shipping and Somalia was unable to contain pirates operating out of its territorial waters. Therefore, a multinational maritime security effort was launched. The navies of major powers including Russia, China, Japan, and South Korea sent their warships to the region to participate in the anti-piracy operations. Indian Naval Presence The Indian navy too played a key role in the counter-piracy operations. India is a resident naval power with a willingness and desire to contribute towards the maintenance of regional security in the Indian Ocean including in the sub-theater of the Northwest Indian Ocean. Over the years, India has managed to regularize its maritime presence in the Gulf of Aden and Southwest Indian Ocean. Time and again, India has extended much-needed humanitarian assistance to the littoral states in the region. India has also positioned itself as the `preferred security partner` in the region. Indian navy is uniquely placed in the regional geopolitics of the Northwest Indian Ocean. It enjoys close relationship with the US, Japan, and France, and consequently, the Indian navy ships can access their naval bases in Djibouti. Russia`s upcoming naval base at Port Sudan also opens up opportunities for greater collaboration between Indian and Russian navies in the Red Sea and WIO. India`s deepening strategic partnership with UAE could be strengthened further in the domain of maritime security in the context of the geopolitics of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. India and Taiwan share an interest in containing Chinese power. The Taiwanese presence in Somaliland and UAE`s facilities along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden including Berbera could be leveraged for keeping a close watch on the Chinese activities in the region. The entire region lying between the Suez Canal and Japan is seeing an expanding Indian maritime footprint. The growing interest in the region is demonstrated by regularly deploying warships for conducting naval exercises with friendly countries and for carrying out defence diplomacy. As a result, the Indian navy is indicating that Western Pacific and the Red Sea are emerging as integral parts of its strategic dynamics. The naval exercises with Egyptian and Sudanese navies demonstrate the expanding strategic maritime horizons and underscore the growing salience of the Red Sea in India`s security matrix.

Indian Navy holds exercises in the Red Sea, not far from the Suez Canal

Ashin Wirathu, a nationalist Buddhist monk notorious for his anti-Muslim tirades, has been released by Myanmar’s military.

The development comes after all charges, including sedition, levied against him by Aung San Suu Kyi’s deposed government were dropped, a military statement said on Monday. &nbsp;

For his role in stirring up religious hatred in Myanmar, the monk was once dubbed by Time magazine as the “The Face of Buddhist Terror”. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Myanmar's shadow government calls for revolt against military coup

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Without providing details, it added, he was “receiving treatment at a military hospital”. &nbsp;

The monk, who belongs to Mandalay, became involved in the anti-Muslim 969 group in 2001. He was first jailed in 2003. &nbsp;

Wirathu was released in 2010. Two years later, he rose to prominence after rioting broke out between Buddhists and ethnic minority Rohingya Muslims in the western state of Rakhine. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/xi-appoints-new-army-commander-to-lead-pla-troops-at-indo-china-border-411356" hreflang="en">Xi appoints new army commander to lead PLA troops at Indo-China border</a>

The 53-year-old monk has founded a nationalist organisation, which was accused of inciting violence against Muslims and was also successful in lobbying for laws making interfaith marriages difficult. &nbsp;

For his tirades, Myanmar’s highest Buddhist authority banned him from preaching for one year in 2017. In 2018, Facebook shut down his account. &nbsp;

Last year, the monk was jailed after turning himself in to authorities over May 2019 charges of attempting to bring “hatred or contempt” and of “exciting disaffection” towards Aung San Suu Kyi’s government.&nbsp;

Ashin Wirathu, a nationalist Buddhist monk notorious for his anti-Muslim tirades, has been released by Myanmar’s military. The development comes after all charges, including sedition, levied against him by Aung San Suu Kyi’s deposed government were dropped, a military statement said on Monday.

Ashin Wirathu, a nationalist Buddhist monk notorious for his anti-Muslim tirades, has been released by Myanmar’s military. The development comes after all charges, including sedition, levied against him by Aung San Suu Kyi’s deposed government were dropped, a military statement said on Monday. For his role in stirring up religious hatred in Myanmar, the monk was once dubbed by Time magazine as the “The Face of Buddhist Terror”. Watch: Myanmar's shadow government calls for revolt against military coup × Without providing details, it added, he was “receiving treatment at a military hospital”. The monk, who belongs to Mandalay, became involved in the anti-Muslim 969 group in 2001. He was first jailed in 2003. Wirathu was released in 2010. Two years later, he rose to prominence after rioting broke out between Buddhists and ethnic minority Rohingya Muslims in the western state of Rakhine. Also Read: Xi appoints new army commander to lead PLA troops at Indo-China border The 53-year-old monk has founded a nationalist organisation, which was accused of inciting violence against Muslims and was also successful in lobbying for laws making interfaith marriages difficult. For his tirades, Myanmar’s highest Buddhist authority banned him from preaching for one year in 2017. In 2018, Facebook shut down his account. Last year, the monk was jailed after turning himself in to authorities over May 2019 charges of attempting to bring “hatred or contempt” and of “exciting disaffection” towards Aung San Suu Kyi’s government.

After dropping all charges, Myanmar army frees notorious anti-Muslim monk

In a change of guard, China's President Xi Jinping has appointed Gen Wang Haijiang as the new Commander of the People's Liberation Army's Western Theatre Command, official media reported. The Western Theatre Command oversees the borders with India. &nbsp;

The ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) chief Jinping also heads the Central Military Commission (CMC). The CMC is the overall high command of the country's army.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Military claims coup in Guinea, nationwide curfew declared by rebels

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The 68-year-old leader has promoted Wang and four other military officers to the rank of General, the highest rank for officers in active military service in China, reported state-run website chinamil on Monday. He also presented certificates of order promoting them to the military rank of General, the report said.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-military-presents-classified-evidence-on-how-to-land-hypersonic-drone-report-411337" hreflang="en">Chinese military presents classified evidence on how to land hypersonic drone: Report</a>

"The promoted officers are Commander of the PLA Western Theater Command Wang Haijiang, Commander of the PLA Central Theater Command Lin Xiangyang, Commander of the PLA Navy Dong Jun and Commander of the PLA Air Force Chang Dingqiu and President of PLA National Defence University Xu Xueqiang," the report added.&nbsp;

Since the eastern Ladakh standoff began in May last year, Gen Wang is the fourth commander to head the Western Theatre Command.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a change of guard, China's President Xi Jinping has appointed Gen Wang Haijiang as the new Commander of the People's Liberation Army's Western Theatre Command, official media reported.

In a change of guard, China's President Xi Jinping has appointed Gen Wang Haijiang as the new Commander of the People's Liberation Army's Western Theatre Command, official media reported. The Western Theatre Command oversees the borders with India. The ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) chief Jinping also heads the Central Military Commission (CMC). The CMC is the overall high command of the country's army. Watch: Military claims coup in Guinea, nationwide curfew declared by rebels × The 68-year-old leader has promoted Wang and four other military officers to the rank of General, the highest rank for officers in active military service in China, reported state-run website chinamil on Monday. He also presented certificates of order promoting them to the military rank of General, the report said. Also Read | Chinese military presents classified evidence on how to land hypersonic drone: Report "The promoted officers are Commander of the PLA Western Theater Command Wang Haijiang, Commander of the PLA Central Theater Command Lin Xiangyang, Commander of the PLA Navy Dong Jun and Commander of the PLA Air Force Chang Dingqiu and President of PLA National Defence University Xu Xueqiang," the report added. Since the eastern Ladakh standoff began in May last year, Gen Wang is the fourth commander to head the Western Theatre Command. (With inputs from agencies)

Xi appoints new army commander to lead PLA troops at Indo-China border

Group of Army personnel who stand opposed to Guinea's leader have declared that they have captured the President and the government is now dissolved.<o:p></o:p>

Army putschists from the west African country sent an exclusive video to the news agency AFP in which they claimed the government has been dissolved after they successfully captured the President.<o:p></o:p>

"We decided after taking the president, who is currently with us, we decided to dissolve the current Constitution, to dissolve the institutions; we also decided to dissolve the government and the closure of land and air borders," Colonel Doumbouya, a putschist, said.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/genocide-in-making-afghan-ex-vp-calls-on-un-to-end-talibans-onslaught-into-panjshir-province-410875">'Genocide in making': Afghan ex-VP calls on UN to end 'Taliban’s onslaught'</a></o:p>

This news has come after several rounds of heavy gunfire were heard by locals of the capital city of Conakry on Sunday morning and troops were seen marching on the streets.<o:p></o:p>

Army troops took over the streets of the capital city and ordered all civilians to immediately return to their homes and stay locked inside for their own safety, as per locals.<o:p></o:p>

The rebellion against the President Alpha Conde is believed to be led by former French legionnaire, Mamady Doumbouya.<o:p></o:p>

However, the defence ministry said they have been successful in putting out an attack. "The presidential guard, supported by the loyalist and republican defence and security forces, contained the threat and repelled the group of assailants," it said in a statement. "Security and combing operations are continuing to restore order and peace."

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has urged the rebellion to release the captured President immediately. "I am personally following the situation in Guinea very closely. I strongly condemn any takeover of the government by force of the gun and call for the immediate release of President Alpha Conde," he tweeted.

<o:p></o:p>

Group of Army personnel who stand opposed to Guinea's leader have declared that they have captured the President and the government is now dissolved. Army putschists from the west African country sent an exclusive video to the news agency AFP in which they claimed the government has been dissolved after they successfully captured the President.

Group of Army personnel who stand opposed to Guinea's leader have declared that they have captured the President and the government is now dissolved. Army putschists from the west African country sent an exclusive video to the news agency AFP in which they claimed the government has been dissolved after they successfully captured the President. "We decided after taking the president, who is currently with us, we decided to dissolve the current Constitution, to dissolve the institutions; we also decided to dissolve the government and the closure of land and air borders," Colonel Doumbouya, a putschist, said. Also read | 'Genocide in making': Afghan ex-VP calls on UN to end 'Taliban’s onslaught' This news has come after several rounds of heavy gunfire were heard by locals of the capital city of Conakry on Sunday morning and troops were seen marching on the streets. Army troops took over the streets of the capital city and ordered all civilians to immediately return to their homes and stay locked inside for their own safety, as per locals. The rebellion against the President Alpha Conde is believed to be led by former French legionnaire, Mamady Doumbouya. However, the defence ministry said they have been successful in putting out an attack. "The presidential guard, supported by the loyalist and republican defence and security forces, contained the threat and repelled the group of assailants," it said in a statement. "Security and combing operations are continuing to restore order and peace." UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has urged the rebellion to release the captured President immediately. "I am personally following the situation in Guinea very closely. I strongly condemn any takeover of the government by force of the gun and call for the immediate release of President Alpha Conde," he tweeted.

Guinea's President has been captured and government is dissolved: Army

Nepal and Indian Army personnel will participate in the 15th edition of two-week joint military exercise Suryakiran from September 20. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, Nepal Army Spokesperson Santosh Ballav Poudyal said the event will take place in Pithoragadh of India. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“Nepali Army personnel participating in the exercise will travel to Pithoragadh in India. The event will take place from September 20 to October 3. As many as 300 Nepali Army personnel will participate along with similar number of Indian Army personnel,” Poudyal told WION.

Watch |&nbsp;MEA: India's concern is to prevent use of Afghan soil for terrorist activities&nbsp;

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The Army Spokesperson said this comes after the series of discussion that took place during the visit of Nepalese army delegation to India recently to meet their Indian counterparts. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Suryakiran is the biggest of cross-country military exercise that Nepal participates in, in terms of the number of personnel involved. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He confirmed that Nepal and India alternately host each edition of the exercise. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/nepal-government-objects-to-burning-of-indian-pm-modis-effigy-in-kathmandu-410851" hreflang="en">Nepal government objects to burning of Indian PM Modi's effigy in Kathmandu</a>

“The area of focus in the exercise will be counter insurgency and general warfare technique. The exercise had to be postponed in 2020 due to the pandemic,” said Poudyal. &nbsp;&nbsp;

When asked what safety protocols will be carried out due to Covid, he said, “All personnel will be double vaccinated and PCR tests will be conducted before they join the event. Of course, all other COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed.” &nbsp;

Speaking about the invitation of Indian Army to retired Nepali Army Chiefs of Staff, he said, “Around eight retired Army Chiefs have been invited and not everybody has confirmed their participation. The programme will take place in New Delhi this September.”&nbsp;

Nepal and Indian Army personnel will participate in the 15th edition of two-week joint military exercise Suryakiran from September 20. Speaking to WION, Nepal Army Spokesperson Santosh Ballav Poudyal said the event will take place in Pithoragadh of India.

Nepal and Indian Army personnel will participate in the 15th edition of two-week joint military exercise Suryakiran from September 20. Speaking to WION, Nepal Army Spokesperson Santosh Ballav Poudyal said the event will take place in Pithoragadh of India. “Nepali Army personnel participating in the exercise will travel to Pithoragadh in India. The event will take place from September 20 to October 3. As many as 300 Nepali Army personnel will participate along with similar number of Indian Army personnel,” Poudyal told WION. Watch | MEA: India's concern is to prevent use of Afghan soil for terrorist activities × The Army Spokesperson said this comes after the series of discussion that took place during the visit of Nepalese army delegation to India recently to meet their Indian counterparts. Suryakiran is the biggest of cross-country military exercise that Nepal participates in, in terms of the number of personnel involved. He confirmed that Nepal and India alternately host each edition of the exercise. Also Read: Nepal government objects to burning of Indian PM Modi's effigy in Kathmandu “The area of focus in the exercise will be counter insurgency and general warfare technique. The exercise had to be postponed in 2020 due to the pandemic,” said Poudyal. When asked what safety protocols will be carried out due to Covid, he said, “All personnel will be double vaccinated and PCR tests will be conducted before they join the event. Of course, all other COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed.” Speaking about the invitation of Indian Army to retired Nepali Army Chiefs of Staff, he said, “Around eight retired Army Chiefs have been invited and not everybody has confirmed their participation. The programme will take place in New Delhi this September.”

India, Nepal to hold annual joint military exercise from September 20

Instead of the shouts of noisy children, the halls of the primary school in the German town of Dernau are filled with the deafening sound of a dozen drills.

The workers on site are an army of unpaid volunteers who have taken on the colossal task of rebuilding towns that were devastated by deadly floods in western Germany seven weeks ago that washed away homes, offices and infrastructure.

Some are locals, or helpers at public organisations like the Red Cross or the fire brigade, but many others have travelled in from across the country, helping to clear up debris by day and sleeping in makeshift camps by night.

Although the government has pledged 30 billion euros&nbsp;to fund the reconstruction work, residents say most of the help they receive comes from private people like the volunteers in Dernau.

With less than a month to go before general elections, politicians are "having a mud fight, but the real mud fight is here -- and they're not," says one volunteer, Christine Jahn.

Before the floods, Dernau was a picturesque town, framed by steep valley slopes covered in vineyards. Today, entire streets in the worst-hit areas are no longer inhabitable.

The school can no longer be used either: its pupils are now taking their classes elsewhere.

Inside the school, volunteers are working to strip flood-damaged walls, chipping away at a mural painted by the schoolchildren depicting the globe.

Two of those on site are Rebekka, 22, and her mother Judith, 52, who are working at the site together for the first time this week.&nbsp;

The end of the summer holidays in Germany has seen the number of volunteers ebb, but with more time to spare now her university exams are over, "I can still do my bit," Rebekka says.

Volunteers are essential to the clear-up, says Judith. "It's just faster to come here and get it done."

'Less babbling please'

The mustering point for the volunteers is a short drive outside Dernau, in the shadow of a hulking factory of sweets-maker Haribo.

Some volunteers sleep here in tents and are provided with food, water, and the equipment they need to work in the flooded towns.&nbsp;

Jahn, 66, is in her last week at the camp, having come hundreds of miles from the east of Germany soon after the disaster struck.

A former construction worker, she started off "clearing mud" and "digging" wine bottles out of flooded cellars.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-government-forms-committee-to-study-border-issue-with-china-410087">Also read |&nbsp;Nepal government forms committee to study border issue with China</a>

"I met some young people in the first three days and after that we always agreed to meet up each morning," Jahn says.&nbsp;

Now she is seeing to it that volunteers are well provided for, making coffee and sandwiches for hundreds.&nbsp;

German Chancellor Angela Merkel will on Friday visit the flood-stricken region for the second time.

But concrete help from politicians has been slow to arrive, according to Jahn.&nbsp;

"I want less babbling and more getting on with it, so that the money arrives without bureaucracy."

'Our institutions failed'

At the town's former train station, a quaint building with red-lacquered timber beams, another volunteer, Daniel, was taking delivery of bottles of water.

The station has been turned into a supplies shop called "Tante Emma" ("Auntie Emma's") that is stocked by donations, providing food, essentials and tools to local residents to help them repair their lives.&nbsp;

The shop entrance is piled high with nails, screws, and bottles of water behind a makeshift petrol pump.&nbsp;

One of several to manage the store, Daniel had come to the area with friends five weeks ago and decided to stay.&nbsp;

"I have a new contract in a hospital from December 1, but until then I have time," says the 29-year-old careworker.

"Without volunteers nothing here would work," says Daniel, "our institutions have completely failed."

"The longer ago the floods were, the more we need help," he says, urging more people to provide support.

Marita, 78, a resident of Dernau forced to leave by the disaster, says: "We don't get much from the state.

"Most of it comes from private people and donations," she says.

While her house is being repaired, Marita has moved in with her daughter two hours away in Mainz.

She plans to move back one day. "This is where our friends are, where we grew up and we’ll continue living here."

Instead of the shouts of noisy children, the halls of the primary school in the German town of Dernau are filled with the deafening sound of a dozen drills. The workers on site are an army of unpaid volunteers who have taken on the colossal task of rebuilding towns that were devastated by deadly floods in western Germany seven weeks ago that washed away homes, offices and infrastructure.

Instead of the shouts of noisy children, the halls of the primary school in the German town of Dernau are filled with the deafening sound of a dozen drills. The workers on site are an army of unpaid volunteers who have taken on the colossal task of rebuilding towns that were devastated by deadly floods in western Germany seven weeks ago that washed away homes, offices and infrastructure. Some are locals, or helpers at public organisations like the Red Cross or the fire brigade, but many others have travelled in from across the country, helping to clear up debris by day and sleeping in makeshift camps by night. Although the government has pledged 30 billion euros to fund the reconstruction work, residents say most of the help they receive comes from private people like the volunteers in Dernau. With less than a month to go before general elections, politicians are "having a mud fight, but the real mud fight is here -- and they're not," says one volunteer, Christine Jahn. Before the floods, Dernau was a picturesque town, framed by steep valley slopes covered in vineyards. Today, entire streets in the worst-hit areas are no longer inhabitable. The school can no longer be used either: its pupils are now taking their classes elsewhere. Inside the school, volunteers are working to strip flood-damaged walls, chipping away at a mural painted by the schoolchildren depicting the globe. Two of those on site are Rebekka, 22, and her mother Judith, 52, who are working at the site together for the first time this week. The end of the summer holidays in Germany has seen the number of volunteers ebb, but with more time to spare now her university exams are over, "I can still do my bit," Rebekka says. Volunteers are essential to the clear-up, says Judith. "It's just faster to come here and get it done." 'Less babbling please' The mustering point for the volunteers is a short drive outside Dernau, in the shadow of a hulking factory of sweets-maker Haribo. Some volunteers sleep here in tents and are provided with food, water, and the equipment they need to work in the flooded towns. Jahn, 66, is in her last week at the camp, having come hundreds of miles from the east of Germany soon after the disaster struck. A former construction worker, she started off "clearing mud" and "digging" wine bottles out of flooded cellars. Also read | Nepal government forms committee to study border issue with China "I met some young people in the first three days and after that we always agreed to meet up each morning," Jahn says. Now she is seeing to it that volunteers are well provided for, making coffee and sandwiches for hundreds. German Chancellor Angela Merkel will on Friday visit the flood-stricken region for the second time. But concrete help from politicians has been slow to arrive, according to Jahn. "I want less babbling and more getting on with it, so that the money arrives without bureaucracy." 'Our institutions failed' At the town's former train station, a quaint building with red-lacquered timber beams, another volunteer, Daniel, was taking delivery of bottles of water. The station has been turned into a supplies shop called "Tante Emma" ("Auntie Emma's") that is stocked by donations, providing food, essentials and tools to local residents to help them repair their lives. The shop entrance is piled high with nails, screws, and bottles of water behind a makeshift petrol pump. One of several to manage the store, Daniel had come to the area with friends five weeks ago and decided to stay. "I have a new contract in a hospital from December 1, but until then I have time," says the 29-year-old careworker. "Without volunteers nothing here would work," says Daniel, "our institutions have completely failed." "The longer ago the floods were, the more we need help," he says, urging more people to provide support. Marita, 78, a resident of Dernau forced to leave by the disaster, says: "We don't get much from the state. "Most of it comes from private people and donations," she says. While her house is being repaired, Marita has moved in with her daughter two hours away in Mainz. She plans to move back one day. "This is where our friends are, where we grew up and we’ll continue living here."

Volunteer army rebuilds Germany's flood-stricken towns

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Monday that India wants a solution to the border dispute with China through dialogue and asserted that the government would never allow the sanctity of borders to be violated.

The Modi government has made it clear to the forces that any unilateral action on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) should not be ignored, he said.

Singh was delivering virtually the third Balramji Dass Tandon Memorial Lecture organised by Panjab University on the issue of national security.

The defence minister said that there have been "perception differences"&nbsp;on the border with China. "Despite this, there are some agreements, protocols which the armies of both countries follow to conduct patrols."&nbsp;Referring to the clashes in eastern Ladakh last year, Singh said Chinese forces had ignored the "agreed protocols".

"We cannot allow the Chinese Army PLA to act on the LAC in a unilateral manner under any circumstances.

"That is what the Indian Army did that day in Galwan and bravely confronted the PLA soldiers and forced them to retreat,"&nbsp;he said while terming it as a "historic" incident.

India wants a solution to the border dispute with China through dialogue, the defence minister said and asserted that the government will never compromise on issues of the "country's borders, its honour and self-respect".

"We will never allow the sanctity of borders to be violated,"&nbsp;he said.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-indias-biggest-defence-shift-200000-troops-on-china-border-394641">India's biggest defence shift — 200,000 troops on China border</a>

Recalling the Galwan incident, he said the bravery, valour and restraint shown by the Indian Army are incomparable and unparalleled.

In the first deadly clash in the border area in nearly five decades, 20 Indian soldiers were killed on June 15 last year in the Galwan Valley in fierce hand-to-hand combat with Chinese troops, triggering a large deployment of troops and heavy weaponry by both armies at the friction points in eastern Ladakh.

In February, China officially acknowledged that five Chinese military officers and soldiers were killed in the clashes with the Indian Army though it is widely believed that the death toll was higher.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-recruits-tibetans-in-new-militia-unit-near-border-with-india-393946">China recruits Tibetans in new militia unit near border with India</a>

In a significant forward movement towards the restoration of peace and tranquility in the region, the Indian and Chinese armies completed the disengagement process and restored the pre-standoff ground position in Gogra in eastern Ladakh after 15 months.

The development came after the 12th round of military talks between the two sides on July 31 at the Chushul-Moldo meeting point in eastern Ladakh.

Earlier, the Indian and Chinese frontline troops had conducted the first synchronised disengagement at the south and north banks of the Pangong lake in February.

The Army is trained to press the trigger on seeing the movement of the enemy, but the Indian Army has shown both courage and restraint while working with great maturity, Rajnath Singh said.

He said despite this, questions were raised by some opposition leaders on the Army's capability.

The defence minister said India has learnt a lot from the 1962 war against China.

On improving infrastructure, he said that the Atal Tunnel project in Rohtang, which was on hold for a long time, was completed by the Modi government. "This tunnel has strategic importance,"&nbsp;he said.

The Border Roads Organisation is developing infrastructure projects and all-weather connectivity was being given to Ladakh, he said, adding work on several alternative roads has started.

The minister said it will also help the people who live in border areas as these people have "strategic importance for us".

"Keeping their interests in mind, it is necessary to strengthen the border infrastructure,"&nbsp;he said.

Referring to the situation in the Northeast, the minister said an era of peace has come in this region in the last seven years.

There was a time when the entire region was in the grip of insurgency, he said and dubbed the restoration of peace in the Northeast as the "biggest strategic victory"&nbsp;of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tenure.

The minister said the government has succeeded in controlling Left Wing Extremism as well in the last seven years.

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Monday that India wants a solution to the border dispute with China through dialogue and asserted that the government would never allow the sanctity of borders to be violated.

India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Monday that India wants a solution to the border dispute with China through dialogue and asserted that the government would never allow the sanctity of borders to be violated. The Modi government has made it clear to the forces that any unilateral action on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) should not be ignored, he said. Singh was delivering virtually the third Balramji Dass Tandon Memorial Lecture organised by Panjab University on the issue of national security. The defence minister said that there have been "perception differences" on the border with China. "Despite this, there are some agreements, protocols which the armies of both countries follow to conduct patrols." Referring to the clashes in eastern Ladakh last year, Singh said Chinese forces had ignored the "agreed protocols". "We cannot allow the Chinese Army PLA to act on the LAC in a unilateral manner under any circumstances. "That is what the Indian Army did that day in Galwan and bravely confronted the PLA soldiers and forced them to retreat," he said while terming it as a "historic" incident. India wants a solution to the border dispute with China through dialogue, the defence minister said and asserted that the government will never compromise on issues of the "country's borders, its honour and self-respect". "We will never allow the sanctity of borders to be violated," he said. Watch | India's biggest defence shift — 200,000 troops on China border Recalling the Galwan incident, he said the bravery, valour and restraint shown by the Indian Army are incomparable and unparalleled. In the first deadly clash in the border area in nearly five decades, 20 Indian soldiers were killed on June 15 last year in the Galwan Valley in fierce hand-to-hand combat with Chinese troops, triggering a large deployment of troops and heavy weaponry by both armies at the friction points in eastern Ladakh. In February, China officially acknowledged that five Chinese military officers and soldiers were killed in the clashes with the Indian Army though it is widely believed that the death toll was higher. Also read | China recruits Tibetans in new militia unit near border with India In a significant forward movement towards the restoration of peace and tranquility in the region, the Indian and Chinese armies completed the disengagement process and restored the pre-standoff ground position in Gogra in eastern Ladakh after 15 months. The development came after the 12th round of military talks between the two sides on July 31 at the Chushul-Moldo meeting point in eastern Ladakh. Earlier, the Indian and Chinese frontline troops had conducted the first synchronised disengagement at the south and north banks of the Pangong lake in February. The Army is trained to press the trigger on seeing the movement of the enemy, but the Indian Army has shown both courage and restraint while working with great maturity, Rajnath Singh said. He said despite this, questions were raised by some opposition leaders on the Army's capability. The defence minister said India has learnt a lot from the 1962 war against China. On improving infrastructure, he said that the Atal Tunnel project in Rohtang, which was on hold for a long time, was completed by the Modi government. "This tunnel has strategic importance," he said. The Border Roads Organisation is developing infrastructure projects and all-weather connectivity was being given to Ladakh, he said, adding work on several alternative roads has started. The minister said it will also help the people who live in border areas as these people have "strategic importance for us". "Keeping their interests in mind, it is necessary to strengthen the border infrastructure," he said. Referring to the situation in the Northeast, the minister said an era of peace has come in this region in the last seven years. There was a time when the entire region was in the grip of insurgency, he said and dubbed the restoration of peace in the Northeast as the "biggest strategic victory" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tenure. The minister said the government has succeeded in controlling Left Wing Extremism as well in the last seven years.

India wants solution to border dispute with China through dialogue, won't allow unilateral action: Defence Minister

The posting of a video demanding accountability from military leaders over the evacuation from Afghanistan by a US Marine Corps lieutenant colonel has led to his dismissal as he has been relieved of his duties. The officer will leave US service, reports said on Friday. &nbsp;

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Marine officer Stuart Scheller has been relieved from duty for this video. 
 
<a href="https://t.co/GyxzUJ44vN">pic.twitter.com/GyxzUJ44vN</a>
— Cernovich (@Cernovich) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cernovich/status/1431383603917643778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The officer, Stuart Scheller, had posted a video on Facebook and LinkedIn on Thursday on the day of the recent deadly attack at Kabul Airport. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the devastating suicide bombing, 169 Afghans and 13 American service members were killed at the airport.

Watch |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Flights take off from Kabul as evacuations resume&nbsp;

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Scheller, who was the commander of the advanced infantry training battalion, said, “I have been fighting for 17 years. I am willing to throw it all away to say to my senior leaders: ‘I demand accountability’.” &nbsp;

The officer said, “I knew someone killed in Kabul, but was making this video because I have a growing discontent and contempt for … perceived ineptitude at the foreign policy level, and I want to specifically ask some questions to some of my senior leaders.”

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-stranded-interpreter-and-the-soldiers-who-would-not-let-go-409024" hreflang="en">A stranded interpreter, and the soldiers who would not let go</a>&nbsp;

He criticised David Berger, commandant, Marine Corps for a note sent to Marines about how they might feel about the near-20-year US presence in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The posting of a video demanding accountability from military leaders over the evacuation from Afghanistan by a US Marine Corps lieutenant colonel has led to his dismissal as he has been relieved of his duties.

The posting of a video demanding accountability from military leaders over the evacuation from Afghanistan by a US Marine Corps lieutenant colonel has led to his dismissal as he has been relieved of his duties. The officer will leave US service, reports said on Friday. Marine officer Stuart Scheller has been relieved from duty for this video. pic.twitter.com/GyxzUJ44vN — Cernovich (@Cernovich) August 27, 2021 × The officer, Stuart Scheller, had posted a video on Facebook and LinkedIn on Thursday on the day of the recent deadly attack at Kabul Airport. In the devastating suicide bombing, 169 Afghans and 13 American service members were killed at the airport. Watch | Afghanistan: Flights take off from Kabul as evacuations resume × Scheller, who was the commander of the advanced infantry training battalion, said, “I have been fighting for 17 years. I am willing to throw it all away to say to my senior leaders: ‘I demand accountability’.” The officer said, “I knew someone killed in Kabul, but was making this video because I have a growing discontent and contempt for … perceived ineptitude at the foreign policy level, and I want to specifically ask some questions to some of my senior leaders.” Also Read: A stranded interpreter, and the soldiers who would not let go He criticised David Berger, commandant, Marine Corps for a note sent to Marines about how they might feel about the near-20-year US presence in Afghanistan.

Watch: US officer seeks ‘accountability’ over Afghanistan, gets relieved of duties

Three rockets were fired from Lebanon into northern Israel just after noon on Wednesday, causing warning sirens to sound in the Kiryat Shmona region.

Two rockets landed in wide spaces. There were no casualties reported.&nbsp;

The Israeli Defense Forces retaliated by firing artillery munitions at locations in Lebanon.

According to Channel 12, Israel has warned Lebanon via UN troops that if the border is not calmed, it will escalate its reaction.&nbsp;

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RAW FOOTAGE: 3 rockets were just fired from Lebanon toward northern Israel. 2 rockets landed in Israel, and 1 fell inside Lebanon. 
 
In response, our artillery forces fired into Lebanon. <a href="https://t.co/Sf3754RqRU">pic.twitter.com/Sf3754RqRU</a>
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The warnings went off near Metula on the border with Lebanon. There have been several similar incidents in recent months. 
 
The fire is believed to have been launched by Palestinian groups based in Lebanon, and not Hezbollah, the group that most concerns Israel. It's unlikely that the groups could operate without Hezbollah's consent. 
 
Since Israel's 2006 battle against Hezbollah terrorists, who control southern Lebanon and have sophisticated missiles, the border has remained relatively peaceful.

Small Palestinian factions in Lebanon, on the other hand, have shot rockets towards Israel on a periodic basis in the past, and two rockets were fired at Israel on July 20, inflicting no damage or casualties.

Israel retaliated with artillery fire in response to the event.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Three rockets were fired from Lebanon into northern Israel just after noon on Wednesday, causing warning sirens to sound in the Kiryat Shmona region. Two rockets landed in wide spaces.

Three rockets were fired from Lebanon into northern Israel just after noon on Wednesday, causing warning sirens to sound in the Kiryat Shmona region. Two rockets landed in wide spaces. There were no casualties reported. The Israeli Defense Forces retaliated by firing artillery munitions at locations in Lebanon. According to Channel 12, Israel has warned Lebanon via UN troops that if the border is not calmed, it will escalate its reaction. RAW FOOTAGE: 3 rockets were just fired from Lebanon toward northern Israel. 2 rockets landed in Israel, and 1 fell inside Lebanon. In response, our artillery forces fired into Lebanon. pic.twitter.com/Sf3754RqRU — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) August 4, 2021 × The warnings went off near Metula on the border with Lebanon. There have been several similar incidents in recent months. The fire is believed to have been launched by Palestinian groups based in Lebanon, and not Hezbollah, the group that most concerns Israel. It's unlikely that the groups could operate without Hezbollah's consent. Since Israel's 2006 battle against Hezbollah terrorists, who control southern Lebanon and have sophisticated missiles, the border has remained relatively peaceful. Small Palestinian factions in Lebanon, on the other hand, have shot rockets towards Israel on a periodic basis in the past, and two rockets were fired at Israel on July 20, inflicting no damage or casualties. Israel retaliated with artillery fire in response to the event. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel hit by rockets fired from Lebanon, responds with artillery: Army

Australian officials on Monday extended a snap three-day lockdown in the city of Brisbane and some neighbouring regions while hundreds of army personnel began patrolling Sydney to help enforce COVID-19 lockdown rules. 
 
Sydney, Australia's largest city, is into its sixth week of a lockdown as it struggles with a spike in infections that added nearly 3,500 cases since the first one was detected in a limousine driver who transported overseas airline crew. 
 
Officials in New South Wales, of which Sydney is the capital, have implored residents to stay home to prevent more surges and brought in the military to help police enforce compliance after some defied lockdown rules. 
 
Some 300 army personnel, who will be unarmed and under police command, will go door to door to ensure people who have tested positive are isolating at their homes. 
 
After a steady rise in new cases, the lockdown rules in southeast Queensland, which includes Brisbane, will run until Sunday as officials fear there could be more undetected cases in the community and urged residents to get tested. Restrictions were due to end Tuesday evening. 
 
Thirteen locally acquired cases were detected in Queensland state, up from nine a day earlier. 
 
Australia is going through a cycle of stop-and-start lockdowns in several cities after the emergence of the fast-moving Delta strain and such restrictions are likely to persist until the country hits a higher vaccination coverage. 
 
Prime Minister Scott Morrison has promised lockdowns would be "less likely" once the country inoculates 70% of its population above 16 years, which now stands at 19%. Morrison expects to hit that mark by the end of the year. 
 
Although Australia's vaccination drive has lagged many other developed economies, it has so far fared much better in keeping its coronavirus numbers relatively low, with just under 34,400 cases and 924 deaths.

Australian officials on Monday extended a snap three-day lockdown in the city of Brisbane and some neighbouring regions while hundreds of army personnel began patrolling Sydney to help enforce COVID-19 lockdown rules.

Australian officials on Monday extended a snap three-day lockdown in the city of Brisbane and some neighbouring regions while hundreds of army personnel began patrolling Sydney to help enforce COVID-19 lockdown rules. Sydney, Australia's largest city, is into its sixth week of a lockdown as it struggles with a spike in infections that added nearly 3,500 cases since the first one was detected in a limousine driver who transported overseas airline crew. Officials in New South Wales, of which Sydney is the capital, have implored residents to stay home to prevent more surges and brought in the military to help police enforce compliance after some defied lockdown rules. Some 300 army personnel, who will be unarmed and under police command, will go door to door to ensure people who have tested positive are isolating at their homes. After a steady rise in new cases, the lockdown rules in southeast Queensland, which includes Brisbane, will run until Sunday as officials fear there could be more undetected cases in the community and urged residents to get tested. Restrictions were due to end Tuesday evening. Thirteen locally acquired cases were detected in Queensland state, up from nine a day earlier. Australia is going through a cycle of stop-and-start lockdowns in several cities after the emergence of the fast-moving Delta strain and such restrictions are likely to persist until the country hits a higher vaccination coverage. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has promised lockdowns would be "less likely" once the country inoculates 70% of its population above 16 years, which now stands at 19%. Morrison expects to hit that mark by the end of the year. Although Australia's vaccination drive has lagged many other developed economies, it has so far fared much better in keeping its coronavirus numbers relatively low, with just under 34,400 cases and 924 deaths.

Army patrols Sydney streets as Brisbane extends COVID-19 lockdown

Myanmar's military ruler Min Aung Hlaing on Sunday again promised new multi-party elections and said his government is ready to work with any special envoy named by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). 
 
He spoke in a televised address six months after the army seized power from a civilian government after disputed elections won by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi's ruling party, which he described as "terrorists". 
 
"Myanmar is ready to work on ASEAN cooperation within the ASEAN framework including the dialogue with the ASEAN Special Envoy in Myanmar," Min Aung Hlaing said. 
 
ASEAN foreign ministers are to meet on Monday, when diplomats say they aim to finalise a special envoy tasked with ending violence and promoting dialogue between the junta and its opponents. 
 
The army seized power on February&nbsp;1&nbsp;from the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi after her ruling party won elections that the military argued were tainted by fraud. The country's electoral commission dismissed this allegation.

Myanmar's military ruler Min Aung Hlaing on Sunday again promised new multi-party elections and said his government is ready to work with any special envoy named by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Myanmar's military ruler Min Aung Hlaing on Sunday again promised new multi-party elections and said his government is ready to work with any special envoy named by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). He spoke in a televised address six months after the army seized power from a civilian government after disputed elections won by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi's ruling party, which he described as "terrorists". "Myanmar is ready to work on ASEAN cooperation within the ASEAN framework including the dialogue with the ASEAN Special Envoy in Myanmar," Min Aung Hlaing said. ASEAN foreign ministers are to meet on Monday, when diplomats say they aim to finalise a special envoy tasked with ending violence and promoting dialogue between the junta and its opponents. The army seized power on February 1 from the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi after her ruling party won elections that the military argued were tainted by fraud. The country's electoral commission dismissed this allegation.

Myanmar army ruler pledges elections, ASEAN cooperation in speech six months after coup

Boyband BTS enjoys a huge fan following worldwide. The Korean pop group has fans even in India. One such fan in India while interacting with the band's lead singer RM penned a note praising the band and even added an excerpt of the Bollywood number 'Humdard' from the film 'Ek Villain' and expressed love.&nbsp; 
 
RM responded to the fan's note with a heart emoji and his reaction went viral and even the producer of 'Ek Villain', Ekta Kapoor took a note of it. &nbsp;

Kapoor took to Twitter to &nbsp;and thanked the rapper. Retweeting a fan translation of the post and RM's reaction, Ekta said, "Thank you, RM of @BTS_twt for showering love on #EkVillian's #Humdard and proving once again, that when it comes to music, there are no boundaries! #BTS."

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Thank you, RM of <a href="https://twitter.com/BTS_twt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BTS_twt</a> for showering 💜 love on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EkVillian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EkVillian</a>'s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Humdard?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Humdard</a> and proving once again, that when it comes to music, there are no boundaries! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BTS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BTS</a> <a href="https://t.co/YuHNkirIfi">https://t.co/YuHNkirIfi</a>
— Ekta Kapoor (@ektarkapoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ektarkapoor/status/1417375592681336837?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Turns out members of the boyband are fans of Bollywood films. In 2020, Jimin revealed he watched Aamir Khan's '3 Idiots' during the Covid-19lockdown. The South Korean singer's mention of the movie caught Indian BTS fans by surprise.&nbsp; 
 
It also drew attention the film's producers - Vidhu Vinod Chopra Films. They took to their official Twitter handle to thank the singer and wrote, "Thank you @BTS_twt for showing love for #3Idiots PS: When you are tensed, tell your heart #ALLIZZWELL." 
 
While BTS enjoys a huge fan base in India, the band is yet to perform in the country and fans are hoping that they visit India once the pandemic is over.&nbsp; 
 
Meanwhile, the Band has been topping charts with their new single 'Permission To Dance' which has lyrics penned by Ed Sheeran.&nbsp;

Boyband BTS enjoys a huge fan following worldwide. The Korean pop group has fans even in India. One such fan in India while interacting with the band's lead singer RM penned a note praising the band and even added an excerpt of the Bollywood number 'Humdard' from the film 'Ek Villain' and expressed love.

Boyband BTS enjoys a huge fan following worldwide. The Korean pop group has fans even in India. One such fan in India while interacting with the band's lead singer RM penned a note praising the band and even added an excerpt of the Bollywood number 'Humdard' from the film 'Ek Villain' and expressed love. RM responded to the fan's note with a heart emoji and his reaction went viral and even the producer of 'Ek Villain', Ekta Kapoor took a note of it. Kapoor took to Twitter to and thanked the rapper. Retweeting a fan translation of the post and RM's reaction, Ekta said, "Thank you, RM of @BTS_twt for showering love on #EkVillian's #Humdard and proving once again, that when it comes to music, there are no boundaries! #BTS." Thank you, RM of @BTS_twt for showering 💜 love on #EkVillian's #Humdard and proving once again, that when it comes to music, there are no boundaries! #BTS https://t.co/YuHNkirIfi — Ekta Kapoor (@ektarkapoor) July 20, 2021 × Turns out members of the boyband are fans of Bollywood films. In 2020, Jimin revealed he watched Aamir Khan's '3 Idiots' during the Covid-19lockdown. The South Korean singer's mention of the movie caught Indian BTS fans by surprise. It also drew attention the film's producers - Vidhu Vinod Chopra Films. They took to their official Twitter handle to thank the singer and wrote, "Thank you @BTS_twt for showing love for #3Idiots PS: When you are tensed, tell your heart #ALLIZZWELL." While BTS enjoys a huge fan base in India, the band is yet to perform in the country and fans are hoping that they visit India once the pandemic is over. Meanwhile, the Band has been topping charts with their new single 'Permission To Dance' which has lyrics penned by Ed Sheeran.

RM of BTS admires 'Ek Villain' song, producer Ekta Kapoor responds to the singer

Alert Army troops fired at two drones found hovering over the Ratnuchak-Kaluchak military areas, a defence spokesperson said on Monday, a day after two drones dropped bombs at an IAF station. &nbsp;&nbsp;

One drone was spotted at 11.45 pm on Sunday night and the other at 2.40 am, the officials said. Both drones 'flew away' after alert sentries fired at them. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He said a high alert was sounded immediately and Quick Reaction Teams engaged the drones with firing, Jammu-based Army PRO Lt Col Devender Anand said in a statement here. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Both drones flew away. A major threat was thwarted by the alertness and proactive approach of troops," he said, adding the security forces are on high alert and a search operation is in progress. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier, official sources said that the sentries had swiftly opened fire on noticing the drones to bring them down. &nbsp;&nbsp;

They said the whole area outside the military station was cordoned off immediately and a massive search operation was going on when the last reports were received. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Nothing objectionable was found on the ground, the sources said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The latest incident comes barely a day after a drone, in a first-of-its kind strike, dropped two bombs at Indian Air Force (IAF) station here, causing minor injuries to two personnel.

Alert Army troops fired at two drones found hovering over the Ratnuchak-Kaluchak military areas, a defence spokesperson said on Monday, a day after two drones dropped bombs at an IAF station.

Alert Army troops fired at two drones found hovering over the Ratnuchak-Kaluchak military areas, a defence spokesperson said on Monday, a day after two drones dropped bombs at an IAF station. One drone was spotted at 11.45 pm on Sunday night and the other at 2.40 am, the officials said. Both drones 'flew away' after alert sentries fired at them. He said a high alert was sounded immediately and Quick Reaction Teams engaged the drones with firing, Jammu-based Army PRO Lt Col Devender Anand said in a statement here. "Both drones flew away. A major threat was thwarted by the alertness and proactive approach of troops," he said, adding the security forces are on high alert and a search operation is in progress. Earlier, official sources said that the sentries had swiftly opened fire on noticing the drones to bring them down. They said the whole area outside the military station was cordoned off immediately and a massive search operation was going on when the last reports were received. Nothing objectionable was found on the ground, the sources said. The latest incident comes barely a day after a drone, in a first-of-its kind strike, dropped two bombs at Indian Air Force (IAF) station here, causing minor injuries to two personnel.

Army opens fire at two drones found hovering over Ratnuchak-Kaluchak military areas  

A committee has been formed to address the issues related to the involvement of external agencies in the creation of new military theatre commands.

"The committee has been formed after the Defence Ministry pointed out the issues that may emerge due to the placement of some paramilitary forces under military theatre commands," government sources said on Saturday.

They added that the Committee comprising the three Vice Chiefs will be looking into only the issue of the involvement of external agencies such as the Ministries of Home and Finance.

"The committee would be looking only at the limited issue of discussing with external agencies about the structure and their respective roles in the formation of theatre commands," they said.

The committee formation comes after questions were raised by the Defence Ministry on the proposed structure of commands during a presentation on the draft cabinet note prepared for the theatre commands.

Sources said that the proposed theatre commands suggested bringing some of the paramilitary forces of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) under the theatre commands along with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The defence functionaries in the meeting felt and suggested that since organisations from outside the Ministry of Defence were involved, there was a need for setting up inter-ministerial committees to discuss the matter with them.

The command structure, sources said, also suggest giving service extension to the proposed theatre commanders who would be above the vice chiefs of the three services and below the chiefs. "Citing foreign models on theatre commands, points were raised as to why geography specific commands were being planned as the formations comprise the elements of all three services," they said.

A committee has been formed to address the issues related to the involvement of external agencies in the creation of new military theatre commands. "The committee has been formed after the Defence Ministry pointed out the issues that may emerge due to the placement of some paramilitary forces under military theatre commands," government sources said on Saturday.

A committee has been formed to address the issues related to the involvement of external agencies in the creation of new military theatre commands. "The committee has been formed after the Defence Ministry pointed out the issues that may emerge due to the placement of some paramilitary forces under military theatre commands," government sources said on Saturday. They added that the Committee comprising the three Vice Chiefs will be looking into only the issue of the involvement of external agencies such as the Ministries of Home and Finance. "The committee would be looking only at the limited issue of discussing with external agencies about the structure and their respective roles in the formation of theatre commands," they said. The committee formation comes after questions were raised by the Defence Ministry on the proposed structure of commands during a presentation on the draft cabinet note prepared for the theatre commands. Sources said that the proposed theatre commands suggested bringing some of the paramilitary forces of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) under the theatre commands along with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The defence functionaries in the meeting felt and suggested that since organisations from outside the Ministry of Defence were involved, there was a need for setting up inter-ministerial committees to discuss the matter with them. The command structure, sources said, also suggest giving service extension to the proposed theatre commanders who would be above the vice chiefs of the three services and below the chiefs. "Citing foreign models on theatre commands, points were raised as to why geography specific commands were being planned as the formations comprise the elements of all three services," they said.

Committee set up to discuss involvement of external agencies in Indian military theater commands

Nuclear-armed North Korea is advancing on the front lines of cyberwarfare, analysts say, stealing billions of dollars and presenting a clearer and more present danger than its banned weapons programmes.

Pyongyang is under multiple international sanctions over its atomic bomb and ballistic missile programmes, which have seen rapid progress under North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

But while the world's diplomatic focus has been on its nuclear ambitions, the North has been quietly and steadily building up its cyber capabilities, and analysts say its army of thousands of well-trained hackers are proving to be just as dangerous.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/denuclearisation-is-the-goal-biden-moon-express-willingness-for-dialogue-with-north-korea-386632">'Denuclearisation is the goal': Biden, Moon express willingness for dialogue with North Korea</a>

"North Korea's nuclear and military programmes are long-term threats, but its cyber threats are immediate, realistic threats," said Oh Il-seok, a researcher at the Institute for National Security Strategy in Seoul.

Pyongyang's cyberwarfare abilities first came to global prominence in 2014 when it was accused of hacking into Sony Pictures Entertainment as revenge for "The Interview", a satirical film that mocked leader Kim.

The attack resulted in the posting of several unreleased movies online as well as a vast trove of confidential documents.

Since then the North has been blamed for a number of high-profile cyberattacks, including a $81 million heist from the Bangladesh Central Bank as well as the 2017 WannaCry global ransomware attack, which infected some 300,000 computers in 150 nations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-accuses-the-us-of-using-spurious-diplomacy-to-cover-up-hostile-acts-382073">North Korea accuses the US of using 'spurious' diplomacy to 'cover up hostile acts'</a>

Pyongyang has denied any involvement, describing US allegations over WannaCry as "absurd" and a foreign ministry spokesman declaring: "We have nothing to do with cyberattacks."

But the US Justice Department in February indicted three North Koreans on charges of "participating in a wide-ranging criminal conspiracy to conduct a series of destructive cyberattacks".

In its 2021 Annual Threat Assessment Report, Washington acknowledged that Pyongyang "probably possesses the expertise to cause temporary, limited disruptions of some critical infrastructure networks" across the United States.

The North's cyber programme "poses a growing espionage, theft, and attack threat," said the document from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.

It accused Pyongyang of stealing hundreds of millions of dollars from financial institutions and cryptocurrency exchanges, "probably to fund government priorities, such as its nuclear and missile programs".

'The best defence'

North Korea's cyber-programme dates back to at least the mid-1990s, when then-leader Kim Jong Il reportedly said "all wars in future years will be computer wars".

Today Pyongyang's 6,000-strong cyberwarfare unit, known as Bureau 121, operates from several countries including Belarus, China, India, Malaysia and Russia, according to a US military report published in July 2020.

Scott Jarkoff of cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike rates them highly: "They are extremely sophisticated, dedicated, and capable of conducting advanced attacks."

Bureau 121 recruits are trained in different coding languages and operating systems at special establishments such as Mirim University, said former student Jang Se-yul, who defected in 2007.

Now known as the University of Automation, it takes in only 100 students a year from among the North's highest-scoring schoolchildren.

"We were taught that we had to be prepared against America's cyberwarfare capabilities," Jang told AFP.

"Ultimately, we were taught that we had to develop our own hacking programmes since attacking the enemy's operating system is the best defence."

Cyberwarfare is particularly appealing for small, poor countries like the North that are "outgunned in terms of equipment such as planes, tanks and other modern weapons systems", said Stimson Center researcher Martyn Williams.

"Hacking just requires a computer and Internet connection."

Keyboards over guns

Most state-sponsored hacking groups are mainly used for espionage purposes, but experts say North Korea is unusual in also deploying its cyber capabilities for financial gain.

Pyongyang has blockaded itself to protect against the coronavirus pandemic, adding to the pressure on its economy, and has for years sought to earn foreign currency by multiple means.

And Williams added: "Stealing it is a lot faster and potentially more lucrative than doing business, especially if you have skilled hackers."

The February US indictment accused the three North Koreans of stealing more than $1.3 billion worth of money and cryptocurrency from financial institutions and companies.

When it was issued Assistant Attorney General John Demers called North Korea's operatives &nbsp;"the world's leading bank robbers", adding they were "using keyboards rather than guns, stealing digital wallets of cryptocurrency instead of sacks of cash".

The rise of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin have presented hackers globally with a whole new range of increasingly lucrative targets.

In addition, said Jarkoff, their decentralised networks were a particular bonus for the North, offering a way to circumvent financial sanctions.

"This allows North Korea to easily launder money back into the country, outside the control of the global banking system," he said.

"Cryptocurrency is attractive because it is uncontrolled, borderless, and relatively anonymous."

Nuclear-armed North Korea is advancing on the front lines of cyberwarfare, analysts say, stealing billions of dollars and presenting a clearer and more present danger than its banned weapons programmes.

Nuclear-armed North Korea is advancing on the front lines of cyberwarfare, analysts say, stealing billions of dollars and presenting a clearer and more present danger than its banned weapons programmes. Pyongyang is under multiple international sanctions over its atomic bomb and ballistic missile programmes, which have seen rapid progress under North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. But while the world's diplomatic focus has been on its nuclear ambitions, the North has been quietly and steadily building up its cyber capabilities, and analysts say its army of thousands of well-trained hackers are proving to be just as dangerous. Also read | 'Denuclearisation is the goal': Biden, Moon express willingness for dialogue with North Korea "North Korea's nuclear and military programmes are long-term threats, but its cyber threats are immediate, realistic threats," said Oh Il-seok, a researcher at the Institute for National Security Strategy in Seoul. Pyongyang's cyberwarfare abilities first came to global prominence in 2014 when it was accused of hacking into Sony Pictures Entertainment as revenge for "The Interview", a satirical film that mocked leader Kim. The attack resulted in the posting of several unreleased movies online as well as a vast trove of confidential documents. Since then the North has been blamed for a number of high-profile cyberattacks, including a $81 million heist from the Bangladesh Central Bank as well as the 2017 WannaCry global ransomware attack, which infected some 300,000 computers in 150 nations. Also read | North Korea accuses the US of using 'spurious' diplomacy to 'cover up hostile acts' Pyongyang has denied any involvement, describing US allegations over WannaCry as "absurd" and a foreign ministry spokesman declaring: "We have nothing to do with cyberattacks." But the US Justice Department in February indicted three North Koreans on charges of "participating in a wide-ranging criminal conspiracy to conduct a series of destructive cyberattacks". In its 2021 Annual Threat Assessment Report, Washington acknowledged that Pyongyang "probably possesses the expertise to cause temporary, limited disruptions of some critical infrastructure networks" across the United States. The North's cyber programme "poses a growing espionage, theft, and attack threat," said the document from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. It accused Pyongyang of stealing hundreds of millions of dollars from financial institutions and cryptocurrency exchanges, "probably to fund government priorities, such as its nuclear and missile programs". 'The best defence' North Korea's cyber-programme dates back to at least the mid-1990s, when then-leader Kim Jong Il reportedly said "all wars in future years will be computer wars". Today Pyongyang's 6,000-strong cyberwarfare unit, known as Bureau 121, operates from several countries including Belarus, China, India, Malaysia and Russia, according to a US military report published in July 2020. Scott Jarkoff of cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike rates them highly: "They are extremely sophisticated, dedicated, and capable of conducting advanced attacks." Bureau 121 recruits are trained in different coding languages and operating systems at special establishments such as Mirim University, said former student Jang Se-yul, who defected in 2007. Now known as the University of Automation, it takes in only 100 students a year from among the North's highest-scoring schoolchildren. "We were taught that we had to be prepared against America's cyberwarfare capabilities," Jang told AFP. "Ultimately, we were taught that we had to develop our own hacking programmes since attacking the enemy's operating system is the best defence." Cyberwarfare is particularly appealing for small, poor countries like the North that are "outgunned in terms of equipment such as planes, tanks and other modern weapons systems", said Stimson Center researcher Martyn Williams. "Hacking just requires a computer and Internet connection." Keyboards over guns Most state-sponsored hacking groups are mainly used for espionage purposes, but experts say North Korea is unusual in also deploying its cyber capabilities for financial gain. Pyongyang has blockaded itself to protect against the coronavirus pandemic, adding to the pressure on its economy, and has for years sought to earn foreign currency by multiple means. And Williams added: "Stealing it is a lot faster and potentially more lucrative than doing business, especially if you have skilled hackers." The February US indictment accused the three North Koreans of stealing more than $1.3 billion worth of money and cryptocurrency from financial institutions and companies. When it was issued Assistant Attorney General John Demers called North Korea's operatives "the world's leading bank robbers", adding they were "using keyboards rather than guns, stealing digital wallets of cryptocurrency instead of sacks of cash". The rise of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin have presented hackers globally with a whole new range of increasingly lucrative targets. In addition, said Jarkoff, their decentralised networks were a particular bonus for the North, offering a way to circumvent financial sanctions. "This allows North Korea to easily launder money back into the country, outside the control of the global banking system," he said. "Cryptocurrency is attractive because it is uncontrolled, borderless, and relatively anonymous."

'World's leading bank robbers': North Korea's hacker army

The United States has the most powerful military in the world. It can demonstrate authority in any part of the world in any theatre of war whether it is&nbsp;land, air or&nbsp;high seas. No one in the world can miss American deployments in foreign lands.

But, the US has a secret and undercover army of 60,000 officers and the world knows nothing about it.

A report claims these shadow warriors are spread out across the world's biggest conflict zones, from Pakistan to West Africa. The Pentagon's secret army is low profile and they operate under false identities and disguises. Sometimes, they operate even behind enemy lines. 
 
Watch:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-all-about-americas-secret-army-385922/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A new report claims US has some 60,000 clandestine officers. This is the largest undercover force that the world has ever known. This secret army has been created by the US Department of Defence, better known as the Pentagon.

Reports say this force is 10 times bigger than the number of CIA’s spies. They carry out domestic and foreign assignments both in military uniforms and under civilian cover. No one knows who these officers are and exactly what they do because America has never talked about this secret force.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-closely-tracking-uncontrolled-chinese-rocket-re-entering-atmosphere-pentagon-383094" hreflang="en">US closely tracking uncontrolled Chinese rocket re-entering atmosphere: Pentagon</a>

Unlike the rest of the American intelligence branches, this secret army hasn't been discussed by the US Congress at all. The US government may want to keep it that way, but American publication Newsweek has managed to access some details.

It says more than half of this secret army is engaged as special operations forces. They pursue terrorists in countries like Pakistan and West Africa. Some could even be deployed behind the borders of North Korea and Iran - two countries that are direct adversaries of America.

The other wing is of military intelligence specialists who are collectors, counter intelligence agents, and linguists. They’re deployed with a cover identity to protect them. This secret army also has a small, but a growing cyber intelligence wing. Sitting behind their computers, they hunt for high value targets using information in the public domain.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/pentagon-cancels-border-wall-construction-projects-381894" hreflang="en">Pentagon cancels border wall construction projects</a>

They are also involved in influence campaigns on social media. America is said to have the most extensive and sophisticated intelligence network in the world. Reports say such an initiative challenges America's domestic laws and goes against the military code of conduct and also goes against the Geneva Convention of Human Rights.

The United States has the most powerful military in the world. It can demonstrate authority in any part of the world in any theatre of war whether it is land, air or high seas.

The United States has the most powerful military in the world. It can demonstrate authority in any part of the world in any theatre of war whether it is land, air or high seas. No one in the world can miss American deployments in foreign lands. But, the US has a secret and undercover army of 60,000 officers and the world knows nothing about it. A report claims these shadow warriors are spread out across the world's biggest conflict zones, from Pakistan to West Africa. The Pentagon's secret army is low profile and they operate under false identities and disguises. Sometimes, they operate even behind enemy lines. Watch: A new report claims US has some 60,000 clandestine officers. This is the largest undercover force that the world has ever known. This secret army has been created by the US Department of Defence, better known as the Pentagon. Reports say this force is 10 times bigger than the number of CIA’s spies. They carry out domestic and foreign assignments both in military uniforms and under civilian cover. No one knows who these officers are and exactly what they do because America has never talked about this secret force. Also read: US closely tracking uncontrolled Chinese rocket re-entering atmosphere: Pentagon Unlike the rest of the American intelligence branches, this secret army hasn't been discussed by the US Congress at all. The US government may want to keep it that way, but American publication Newsweek has managed to access some details. It says more than half of this secret army is engaged as special operations forces. They pursue terrorists in countries like Pakistan and West Africa. Some could even be deployed behind the borders of North Korea and Iran - two countries that are direct adversaries of America. The other wing is of military intelligence specialists who are collectors, counter intelligence agents, and linguists. They’re deployed with a cover identity to protect them. This secret army also has a small, but a growing cyber intelligence wing. Sitting behind their computers, they hunt for high value targets using information in the public domain. Also read: Pentagon cancels border wall construction projects They are also involved in influence campaigns on social media. America is said to have the most extensive and sophisticated intelligence network in the world. Reports say such an initiative challenges America's domestic laws and goes against the military code of conduct and also goes against the Geneva Convention of Human Rights.

All you need to know about Pentagon's newly discovered 'secret army'

British soldiers unjustifiably shot or used disproportionate force in the deaths of nine of the 10 innocent people killed in a 1971 incident in Belfast that sparked an upsurge of violence during Northern Ireland's 'Troubles’, an inquiry has found.&nbsp;

A Catholic priest and a mother of eight, who served soldiers tea, were among the victims in an event Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney described on Tuesday as 'one of the most tragic days' of Northern Ireland's three decades of bloodshed.&nbsp;

Judge Siobhan Keegan delivered her findings to applause from families of the victims shortly after the British government announced it would introduce legislation to give greater protection to former soldiers, who served in Northern Ireland, plans Dublin and many in Belfast fiercely oppose.&nbsp;

"All of the deceased were entirely innocent of any wrongdoing on the day in question," Keegan, the coroner for the case, concluded.&nbsp;

The British government's minister for Northern Ireland Brandon Lewis said he would carefully consider the findings, but it was clear that those who died were 'entirely innocent of wrongdoing’.&nbsp;

The victims' grief has been "compounded by the long and difficult process of waiting for answers for so many years," Lewis said in a statement. &nbsp;

The deaths over a three-day period of disorder in the Ballymurphy area of Belfast - a sprawling housing estate of Catholics, who opposed British rule, occurred in the days after the introduction of internment without trial for suspected militants triggered disorder on the streets.&nbsp;

Father Hugh Mullan, the 38-year-old priest who died, was helping an injured man and waving a white object before he was shot twice in the back, the inquiry found.&nbsp;

"Our brother was killed by the British Army and then they lied about it to cover up their injustice," Mullan's brother Patsy told a news conference. "After 50 years, the truth we always knew has finally been told."&nbsp;

There was not enough evidence to say whether the army were responsible for the death of one the victims, John James McKerr, who was indiscriminately shot going to and from work. However, Judge Keegan said it was 'shocking' that the state did not carry out a proper investigation into the killing.&nbsp;

Questions also remain unanswered about the identity of the soldiers, who shot many of the victims, the judge added.&nbsp;

No one has been charged or convicted in connection with any of the killings. The inquest was a fact-finding exercise and not a criminal trial. &nbsp;

"The police have never to this day investigated the deaths of our loved ones," said John Teggart, the son of one of those killed. "No one should be above the law."&nbsp;

Some 3,600 people were killed in the sectarian confrontation between Irish nationalist militants, pro-British 'loyalist' paramilitaries and British military that largely came to an end after a 1998 peace agreement.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

British soldiers unjustifiably shot or used disproportionate force in the deaths of nine of the 10 innocent people killed in a 1971 incident in Belfast that sparked an upsurge of violence during Northern Ireland's 'Troubles’, an inquiry has found.

British soldiers unjustifiably shot or used disproportionate force in the deaths of nine of the 10 innocent people killed in a 1971 incident in Belfast that sparked an upsurge of violence during Northern Ireland's 'Troubles’, an inquiry has found. A Catholic priest and a mother of eight, who served soldiers tea, were among the victims in an event Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney described on Tuesday as 'one of the most tragic days' of Northern Ireland's three decades of bloodshed. Judge Siobhan Keegan delivered her findings to applause from families of the victims shortly after the British government announced it would introduce legislation to give greater protection to former soldiers, who served in Northern Ireland, plans Dublin and many in Belfast fiercely oppose. "All of the deceased were entirely innocent of any wrongdoing on the day in question," Keegan, the coroner for the case, concluded. The British government's minister for Northern Ireland Brandon Lewis said he would carefully consider the findings, but it was clear that those who died were 'entirely innocent of wrongdoing’. The victims' grief has been "compounded by the long and difficult process of waiting for answers for so many years," Lewis said in a statement. The deaths over a three-day period of disorder in the Ballymurphy area of Belfast - a sprawling housing estate of Catholics, who opposed British rule, occurred in the days after the introduction of internment without trial for suspected militants triggered disorder on the streets. Father Hugh Mullan, the 38-year-old priest who died, was helping an injured man and waving a white object before he was shot twice in the back, the inquiry found. "Our brother was killed by the British Army and then they lied about it to cover up their injustice," Mullan's brother Patsy told a news conference. "After 50 years, the truth we always knew has finally been told." There was not enough evidence to say whether the army were responsible for the death of one the victims, John James McKerr, who was indiscriminately shot going to and from work. However, Judge Keegan said it was 'shocking' that the state did not carry out a proper investigation into the killing. Questions also remain unanswered about the identity of the soldiers, who shot many of the victims, the judge added. No one has been charged or convicted in connection with any of the killings. The inquest was a fact-finding exercise and not a criminal trial. "The police have never to this day investigated the deaths of our loved ones," said John Teggart, the son of one of those killed. "No one should be above the law." Some 3,600 people were killed in the sectarian confrontation between Irish nationalist militants, pro-British 'loyalist' paramilitaries and British military that largely came to an end after a 1998 peace agreement. (With inputs from agencies)

British Army killed innocent civilians in Belfast in 1971, says inquiry 

Rebels in Chad threatened to depose the son of the country's slain president after he was named interim leader of the central African nation, raising the specter on Wednesday of a potentially violent power struggle.&nbsp;

Uncertainty prevailed on early Wednesday over how far the rebel column was from N'Djamena, a city of 1 million people, and whether the military would remain loyal to Mahamat Deby Itno in the aftermath of his father's death after three decades in power.&nbsp;

The rebel group that the military blamed for President Idriss Deby Itno's death said late on Tuesday that its forces were heading toward N'Djamena at this very moment. &nbsp;

“Chad is not a monarchy," said a statement from the group known as the Front for Change and Concord in Chad. &nbsp;

“There can be no dynastic devolution of power in our country."&nbsp;

The group's claim of advancing toward the capital could not be independently verified, but it immediately created panic in N'Djamena, which another rebel group attacked back in 2008.&nbsp;

Officials with the Transitional Military Council said the fight was not yet over for control of the country.&nbsp;

"The security situation remains highly serious given the persistence and magnitude of the terrorist threat,” the council's vice president, Djimadoum Tiraina, said, adding that the military must now prevent the country from sinking into chaos and anarchy. &nbsp;

Chad's military spokesman said on Tuesday that the president died during a visit to the front lines of the battle against the rebel group. The rebels were based in neighbouring Libya until earlier this month, when authorities say they crossed over into Chad on the country's April 11 Election Day.&nbsp;

Deby ran for a sixth term in that election and faced minimal opposition after several challengers chose not to take part, fearing the vote would be rigged. Over the years, the president had survived numerous armed rebellions and managed to stay in power until the insurgency led by the Front for Change and Concord in Chad.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Rebels in Chad threatened to depose the son of the country's slain president after he was named interim leader of the central African nation, raising the specter on Wednesday of a potentially violent power struggle.

Rebels in Chad threatened to depose the son of the country's slain president after he was named interim leader of the central African nation, raising the specter on Wednesday of a potentially violent power struggle. Uncertainty prevailed on early Wednesday over how far the rebel column was from N'Djamena, a city of 1 million people, and whether the military would remain loyal to Mahamat Deby Itno in the aftermath of his father's death after three decades in power. The rebel group that the military blamed for President Idriss Deby Itno's death said late on Tuesday that its forces were heading toward N'Djamena at this very moment. “Chad is not a monarchy," said a statement from the group known as the Front for Change and Concord in Chad. “There can be no dynastic devolution of power in our country." The group's claim of advancing toward the capital could not be independently verified, but it immediately created panic in N'Djamena, which another rebel group attacked back in 2008. Officials with the Transitional Military Council said the fight was not yet over for control of the country. "The security situation remains highly serious given the persistence and magnitude of the terrorist threat,” the council's vice president, Djimadoum Tiraina, said, adding that the military must now prevent the country from sinking into chaos and anarchy. Chad's military spokesman said on Tuesday that the president died during a visit to the front lines of the battle against the rebel group. The rebels were based in neighbouring Libya until earlier this month, when authorities say they crossed over into Chad on the country's April 11 Election Day. Deby ran for a sixth term in that election and faced minimal opposition after several challengers chose not to take part, fearing the vote would be rigged. Over the years, the president had survived numerous armed rebellions and managed to stay in power until the insurgency led by the Front for Change and Concord in Chad. (With inputs from agencies)

Chad rebels threaten to depose slain president's son 

Chad's army said on Saturday it had ‘completely destroyed' a column of rebels that attacked the country on the day of last week's presidential election.&nbsp;

Soldiers were searching for the last of the rebels, army spokesman Azem Bermandoa Agouna said in a statement read out on national television.&nbsp;

"The adventure of the mercenaries from Libya has ended, as announced," Communications Minister and government spokesman Cherif Mahamat Zene announced on Twitter.&nbsp;

Four tanks and several soldiers were stationed at the northern entrance of the Chadian capital N'Djamena on Saturday evening, where military vehicles were continuing to drive towards the fighting, an AFP journalist said.&nbsp;

The US embassy there on Saturday told its non-essential staff to leave the country because of the possibility of violence in the city.&nbsp;Britain also urged its citizens to leave the country as soon as possible.&nbsp;

Last Sunday, members of the Force for Change and Concord in Chad (FACT) rebel force group, said they had captured garrisons near Chad's northern borders with Niger and Libya 'without resistance'.&nbsp;

FACT is based in Libya, where it has a non-aggression pact with Khalifa Haftar, a military strongman, who controls much of the country's east. Mainly made up of the Saharan Goran people, it clashes regularly with the Chadian army.&nbsp;

The latest assault came on last Sunday, the same day as the country's presidential election, which the incumbent Idriss Deby Itno, who has ruled the country for 30 years, is expected to win.&nbsp;

Preliminary results will not be announced until April 25.&nbsp;

Initial indications suggested large numbers of people stayed away from the vote, prompting opposition figures to claim their calls for a boycott of the polls had worked.&nbsp;

The Tibesti mountains near the Libyan frontier frequently see fighting between rebels and the army. French air strikes were needed to stop an incursion there in early 2019.&nbsp;

In February 2008, a rebel assault reached the gates of the presidential palace before being pushed back with French backing.&nbsp;

Chad's army said on Saturday it had ‘completely destroyed' a column of rebels that attacked the country on the day of last week's presidential election. Soldiers were searching for the last of the rebels, army spokesman Azem Bermandoa Agouna said in a statement read out on national television.

Chad's army said on Saturday it had ‘completely destroyed' a column of rebels that attacked the country on the day of last week's presidential election. Soldiers were searching for the last of the rebels, army spokesman Azem Bermandoa Agouna said in a statement read out on national television. "The adventure of the mercenaries from Libya has ended, as announced," Communications Minister and government spokesman Cherif Mahamat Zene announced on Twitter. Four tanks and several soldiers were stationed at the northern entrance of the Chadian capital N'Djamena on Saturday evening, where military vehicles were continuing to drive towards the fighting, an AFP journalist said. The US embassy there on Saturday told its non-essential staff to leave the country because of the possibility of violence in the city. Britain also urged its citizens to leave the country as soon as possible. Last Sunday, members of the Force for Change and Concord in Chad (FACT) rebel force group, said they had captured garrisons near Chad's northern borders with Niger and Libya 'without resistance'. FACT is based in Libya, where it has a non-aggression pact with Khalifa Haftar, a military strongman, who controls much of the country's east. Mainly made up of the Saharan Goran people, it clashes regularly with the Chadian army. The latest assault came on last Sunday, the same day as the country's presidential election, which the incumbent Idriss Deby Itno, who has ruled the country for 30 years, is expected to win. Preliminary results will not be announced until April 25. Initial indications suggested large numbers of people stayed away from the vote, prompting opposition figures to claim their calls for a boycott of the polls had worked. The Tibesti mountains near the Libyan frontier frequently see fighting between rebels and the army. French air strikes were needed to stop an incursion there in early 2019. In February 2008, a rebel assault reached the gates of the presidential palace before being pushed back with French backing.

Chad's army says rebel column in the north 'destroyed' 

South Sudan's President Salva Kiir has appointed General Santino Deng Wol as the new head of the army, Kiir's spokesman said on Sunday, as part of a wider reshuffle within the government.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kiir and former rebel leader Riek Machar formed a government of national unity in February last year following a 2018 peace accord that ended a bloody civil war, but the oil-rich nation remains racked by violence.&nbsp;

The director general of the security services and the deputy minister of&nbsp;defence&nbsp;were also replaced in the reshuffle, Kiir's spokesman&nbsp;Ateny&nbsp;Wek said.&nbsp;

"It was a routine reshuffle," Wek said, adding that the president had also fired the minister for presidential affairs and replaced him with a former adviser.&nbsp;

South Sudan erupted into civil war soon after securing independence from Sudan in 2011, leading to an estimated 400,000 deaths and one of the worst refugee&nbsp;crisis&nbsp;on the continent since the 1994 Rwandan genocide.&nbsp;

Despite the formation of a government of national unity in 2020, implementation of the 2018 peace accord has stalled and authorities have blocked humanitarian access to areas where conflict has restarted, a recent UN report said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

South Sudan's President Salva Kiir has appointed General Santino Deng Wol as the new head of the army, Kiir's spokesman said on Sunday, as part of a wider reshuffle within the government.

South Sudan's President Salva Kiir has appointed General Santino Deng Wol as the new head of the army, Kiir's spokesman said on Sunday, as part of a wider reshuffle within the government. Kiir and former rebel leader Riek Machar formed a government of national unity in February last year following a 2018 peace accord that ended a bloody civil war, but the oil-rich nation remains racked by violence. The director general of the security services and the deputy minister of defence were also replaced in the reshuffle, Kiir's spokesman Ateny Wek said. "It was a routine reshuffle," Wek said, adding that the president had also fired the minister for presidential affairs and replaced him with a former adviser. South Sudan erupted into civil war soon after securing independence from Sudan in 2011, leading to an estimated 400,000 deaths and one of the worst refugee crisis on the continent since the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Despite the formation of a government of national unity in 2020, implementation of the 2018 peace accord has stalled and authorities have blocked humanitarian access to areas where conflict has restarted, a recent UN report said. (With inputs from agencies)

South Sudan’s president appoints new army chief 

About 3,000 villagers from Myanmar's southeastern Karen state fled to Thailand on Sunday following air attacks by the army on an area held by an ethnic armed group, an activist group and local media said.&nbsp;

Myanmar’s military launched air strikes on five areas in Mutraw district, near the border, including a displacement camp, the Karen Women’s Organization said.&nbsp;

"At the moment, villagers are hiding in the jungle as more than 3,000 crossed to Thailand to take refuge," a statement from the group said.&nbsp;

Thai PBS reported about 3,000 had reached Thailand.&nbsp;

Thai authorities did not immediately respond to requests for comment.&nbsp;

At least two soldiers from the Karen National Union were killed, said David Eubank, founder of the Free Burma Rangers, a relief organisation.&nbsp;

"We haven’t had air strikes there for over 20 years," Eubank said. "Second, these were at night, so the capability of the Burma military has increased with the help of Russia and China and other nations, and that is deadly."&nbsp;

In an air attack by the military on Saturday, at least three civilians were killed in a village controlled by the KNU, a civil society group said. The militia earlier said it had overrun an army post near the border, killing 10 people.&nbsp;

The air assaults are the most significant attack for years in the region. The KNU had signed a ceasefire agreement in 2015 but tensions have surged after the military overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government on February 1.&nbsp;

The KNU and the Restoration Council of Shan State, also based on the Thai border, have condemned the takeover and announced their support for public resistance.&nbsp;

KNU says it has been sheltering hundreds of people, who have fled central Myanmar amid mounting violence in recent weeks.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

About 3,000 villagers from Myanmar's southeastern Karen state fled to Thailand on Sunday following air attacks by the army on an area held by an ethnic armed group, an activist group and local media said.

About 3,000 villagers from Myanmar's southeastern Karen state fled to Thailand on Sunday following air attacks by the army on an area held by an ethnic armed group, an activist group and local media said. Myanmar’s military launched air strikes on five areas in Mutraw district, near the border, including a displacement camp, the Karen Women’s Organization said. "At the moment, villagers are hiding in the jungle as more than 3,000 crossed to Thailand to take refuge," a statement from the group said. Thai PBS reported about 3,000 had reached Thailand. Thai authorities did not immediately respond to requests for comment. At least two soldiers from the Karen National Union were killed, said David Eubank, founder of the Free Burma Rangers, a relief organisation. "We haven’t had air strikes there for over 20 years," Eubank said. "Second, these were at night, so the capability of the Burma military has increased with the help of Russia and China and other nations, and that is deadly." In an air attack by the military on Saturday, at least three civilians were killed in a village controlled by the KNU, a civil society group said. The militia earlier said it had overrun an army post near the border, killing 10 people. The air assaults are the most significant attack for years in the region. The KNU had signed a ceasefire agreement in 2015 but tensions have surged after the military overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government on February 1. The KNU and the Restoration Council of Shan State, also based on the Thai border, have condemned the takeover and announced their support for public resistance. KNU says it has been sheltering hundreds of people, who have fled central Myanmar amid mounting violence in recent weeks. (With inputs from agencies)

'Thousands flee to Thailand after Myanmar army's air strikes on villages'  

Myanmar army fighter jets launched air strikes on Saturday on a village near the Thai border in territory controlled by an armed ethnic group, the group said, as fears grow of civil war following last month's military coup.&nbsp;

The Karen National Union (KNU), the armed ethnic group that controls the southeastern region, said fighter jets attacked Day Pu No in Papun district, an area held by its Brigade 5 forces, at around 8 pm, forcing villagers to flee.&nbsp;

"They bombed the area... The villagers from that area said two dead and two injured," a spokesperson for civil society group Karen Peace Support Network said, adding that communication was difficult in the remote region and there could be more casualties.&nbsp;

A spokesman for the junta did not answer phone calls seeking comment.&nbsp;

The reported air assault is the most significant attack for years in the region. The KNU had signed a ceasefire agreement in 2015 but tensions surged after the military overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government on February 1.&nbsp;

Earlier on Saturday, the KNU said Brigade 5 forces overran an army base, killing 10 soldiers including a lieutenant-colonel, as the junta celebrated its annual Armed Forces Day with a parade in the capital, Naypyitaw.&nbsp;

The KNU says it has been sheltering hundreds of people, who have fled central Myanmar amid mounting violence in recent weeks. The junta's troops killed dozens of people on Saturday, including children, in one of the bloodiest days of protests since the coup, news reports and witnesses said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

Myanmar army fighter jets launched air strikes on Saturday on a village near the Thai border in territory controlled by an armed ethnic group, the group said, as fears grow of civil war following last month's military coup.

Myanmar army fighter jets launched air strikes on Saturday on a village near the Thai border in territory controlled by an armed ethnic group, the group said, as fears grow of civil war following last month's military coup. The Karen National Union (KNU), the armed ethnic group that controls the southeastern region, said fighter jets attacked Day Pu No in Papun district, an area held by its Brigade 5 forces, at around 8 pm, forcing villagers to flee. "They bombed the area... The villagers from that area said two dead and two injured," a spokesperson for civil society group Karen Peace Support Network said, adding that communication was difficult in the remote region and there could be more casualties. A spokesman for the junta did not answer phone calls seeking comment. The reported air assault is the most significant attack for years in the region. The KNU had signed a ceasefire agreement in 2015 but tensions surged after the military overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government on February 1. Earlier on Saturday, the KNU said Brigade 5 forces overran an army base, killing 10 soldiers including a lieutenant-colonel, as the junta celebrated its annual Armed Forces Day with a parade in the capital, Naypyitaw. The KNU says it has been sheltering hundreds of people, who have fled central Myanmar amid mounting violence in recent weeks. The junta's troops killed dozens of people on Saturday, including children, in one of the bloodiest days of protests since the coup, news reports and witnesses said. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar army launches air strikes in Karen state, says group 

The Afghan Defence Ministry on Saturday said their findings show that an air force helicopter that crashed three days ago was shot down by a local militia leader, vowing 'revenge' for the four crew members and five soldiers, who died.&nbsp;

Ministry spokesperson Fawad Aman said that investigators determined the Mi-17 helicopter that went down in central Wardak province was targeted by the militias tied to Abdul Ghani Alipoor, reports dpa&nbsp;news agency.&nbsp;

Alipoor is an ethnic Hazara militia commander, who is believed to lead hundreds of armed men in Wardak, his home province.&nbsp;

He has taken up arms to defend his community after repeated attacks by the Taliban and Kuchis, a nomadic people in the province.&nbsp;

Recently, the local strongman clashed with government forces in the province over the appointment of a new police commander in the area.&nbsp;

President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday said that the culprits involved in taking down the helicopter will be punished.&nbsp;

Alipoor has reportedly admitted that it was his men.&nbsp;

He was arrested in an operation in Kabul in late 2018 but was later released in return for concessions to the government following a wave of protests by his followers.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Afghan Defence Ministry on Saturday said their findings show that an air force helicopter that crashed three days ago was shot down by a local militia leader, vowing 'revenge' for the four crew members and five soldiers, who died.

The Afghan Defence Ministry on Saturday said their findings show that an air force helicopter that crashed three days ago was shot down by a local militia leader, vowing 'revenge' for the four crew members and five soldiers, who died. Ministry spokesperson Fawad Aman said that investigators determined the Mi-17 helicopter that went down in central Wardak province was targeted by the militias tied to Abdul Ghani Alipoor, reports dpa news agency. Alipoor is an ethnic Hazara militia commander, who is believed to lead hundreds of armed men in Wardak, his home province. He has taken up arms to defend his community after repeated attacks by the Taliban and Kuchis, a nomadic people in the province. Recently, the local strongman clashed with government forces in the province over the appointment of a new police commander in the area. President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday said that the culprits involved in taking down the helicopter will be punished. Alipoor has reportedly admitted that it was his men. He was arrested in an operation in Kabul in late 2018 but was later released in return for concessions to the government following a wave of protests by his followers. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan army vows revenge for chopper crash 

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