Millions of dead and decaying fish have choked up a long length of river in a remote&nbsp; Australian town of Menindee in&nbsp;New South Wales. Multiple videos are going viral on social media showing boats slicing through a layer of dead fish and barely revealing the surface underneath.

According to the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, the deaths were probably brought on by low oxygen levels when floodwaters receded. This&nbsp;was made worse because fish needs extra oxygen in the warmer weather. People in the town of Menindee complained of awful smell that the dead fish gave out.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gop-silence-is-deafening-vivek-ramaswamy-calls-for-support-against-trumps-possible-indictment-573479">US Presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy calls for support against Trump's possible indictment</a>

This is&nbsp;the third mass kill in the region in the recent past, the New South Wales government said on Friday. It added&nbsp;that "millions" of fish had perished in the Darling River close to the small town of Menindee.

Earlier,&nbsp;fish fatalities were reported&nbsp;in the same region&nbsp;in 2018 and 2019. About a&nbsp;million fish had&nbsp;died&nbsp;due to inadequate water flow, poor water quality, and abrupt temperature fluctuations.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-swords-indian-jewelry-trump-failed-to-disclose-300000-foreign-gifts-says-house-democrats-report-573515">Saudi swords, Indian jewellery: Trump failed to disclose $300,000 foreign gifts, says House Democrats' report</a>

“It’s horrific really, there’s dead fish as far as you can see,” Menindee resident Graeme McCrabb told AFP news agency. “It’s surreal to comprehend.&nbsp;The environmental impact is unfathomable,” he added.

With a population of 500, Menindee has been devastated by floods and drought in recent years. According to the state authorities, populations of fish such as bony herring and carp had exploded in the river after previous floods, but they were now rapidly declining as the floodwaters retreated.

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Australia witnesses millions of dead fish wash up and clogged in one of the country's largest river<a href="https://twitter.com/Mohammed11Saleh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Mohammed11Saleh</a> tells you more 
 
For more videos, visit: <a href="https://t.co/AXC5qRuO3J">https://t.co/AXC5qRuO3J</a> <a href="https://t.co/GHEUk0FrNI">pic.twitter.com/GHEUk0FrNI</a>
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“These fish deaths are related to low oxygen levels in the water (hypoxia) as flood waters recede,” the state government said. 
 
“The current hot weather in the region is also exacerbating hypoxia, as warmer water holds less oxygen than cold water, and fish have higher oxygen needs at warmer temperatures.” 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Millions of dead and decaying fish have choked up a long length of river in a remote Australian town of Menindee in New South Wales. Multiple videos are going viral on social media showing boats slicing through a layer of dead fish and barely revealing the surface underneath.

Millions of dead and decaying fish have choked up a long length of river in a remote Australian town of Menindee in New South Wales. Multiple videos are going viral on social media showing boats slicing through a layer of dead fish and barely revealing the surface underneath. According to the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, the deaths were probably brought on by low oxygen levels when floodwaters receded. This was made worse because fish needs extra oxygen in the warmer weather. People in the town of Menindee complained of awful smell that the dead fish gave out. Also Read | US Presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy calls for support against Trump's possible indictment This is the third mass kill in the region in the recent past, the New South Wales government said on Friday. It added that "millions" of fish had perished in the Darling River close to the small town of Menindee. Earlier, fish fatalities were reported in the same region in 2018 and 2019. About a million fish had died due to inadequate water flow, poor water quality, and abrupt temperature fluctuations. Also Read | Saudi swords, Indian jewellery: Trump failed to disclose $300,000 foreign gifts, says House Democrats' report “It’s horrific really, there’s dead fish as far as you can see,” Menindee resident Graeme McCrabb told AFP news agency. “It’s surreal to comprehend. The environmental impact is unfathomable,” he added. With a population of 500, Menindee has been devastated by floods and drought in recent years. According to the state authorities, populations of fish such as bony herring and carp had exploded in the river after previous floods, but they were now rapidly declining as the floodwaters retreated. Australia witnesses millions of dead fish wash up and clogged in one of the country's largest river@Mohammed11Saleh tells you more For more videos, visit: https://t.co/AXC5qRuO3J pic.twitter.com/GHEUk0FrNI — WION (@WIONews) March 18, 2023 × “These fish deaths are related to low oxygen levels in the water (hypoxia) as flood waters recede,” the state government said. “The current hot weather in the region is also exacerbating hypoxia, as warmer water holds less oxygen than cold water, and fish have higher oxygen needs at warmer temperatures.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Horrific': Millions of dead, rotten fish wash ashore river near Australian town

Australia plans to buy up to 220 Tomahawk cruise missiles from the United States after the U.S. State Department approved the sale. Australian officials said the new nuclear-powered submarines would be able to fire Tomahawk missiles.

Australia to get 220 Tomahawk missiles from U.S.

IND vs AUS 1st ODI Live streaming: The Indian Cricket team will take on Australian Cricket Team in the upcoming ODI series, scheduled to begin on March 17, 2023.

IND vs AUS 1st ODI Live streaming: The Indian Cricket team will take on Australian Cricket Team in the upcoming ODI series, scheduled to begin on March 17, 2023. India retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and will play three ODI matches against Australia. Steve Smith will replace Pat Cummins, who returned home during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy due to a family emergency. Indian captain Rohit Sharma will also be unavailable due to a family emergency. Hardik Pandya will lead the Indian team for the IND vs AUS 1st ODI match in his absence. India and Australia have squared off in 106 test matches. Out of them, India won 32, Australia won 44, and the rest of the matches ended in a draw. The ODI series between India and Australia has always been thrilling. Here are the live streaming details about IND vs AUS 1st ODI match, including the match details and the probable playing XI. IND vs AUS 1st ODI Match Details Date: Friday, March 17, 2023 Time: 01:30 PM IST Venue: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai IND vs AUS 1st ODI Probable Playing XI India Yuzvendra Chahal, Ishan Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja, Virat Kohli, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammad Shami, Mohammad Siraj, Hardik Pandya(c), Axar Patel, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Shardul Thakur, Umran Malik, Jaydev Unadkat, Washington Sundar, Suryakumar Yadav Australia Steve Smith(c) Sean Abbott, Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Jhye Richardson, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa IND vs AUS 1st ODI Live Streaming When will the IND vs AUS 1st ODI match be played? The 1st ODI match between India and Australia is on Friday, March 17, 2023. What time will the IND vs AUS 1st ODI match start? The cricket match between India and Australia on March 17 will begin at 01:30 PM IST. Where will the 1st ODI match between IND vs AUS be played? Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, will host the 1st ODI match between India and Australia on March 17, 2023. Where can I watch India vs Australia's 1st ODI match live on mobile? Disney+ Hotstar will broadcast the IND vs AUS 1st ODI match live. Fans can subscribe to Disney+ Hotstar to watch the 1st ODI match between India vs Australia. How can I watch IND vs AUS 1st ODI match live on TV? Star Sports Network has purchased the rights to live telecast the upcoming ODI series between India and Australia. Thus, fans can watch the IND vs AUS 1st ODI match on Star Sports Channels.

IND vs AUS 1st ODI Live streaming: Where, how to watch India vs Australia 1st ODI live on TV, mobile & laptop?

At least six men have been charged by the Australian police over the alleged kidnapping and torture of a 26-year-old man in Sydney. Local police have rescued the man in an armed raid. He was tortured and held captive for six days. &nbsp;

Media reports said that the victim, who has been identified as Peter Vuong, was abducted by a group of kidnappers, who apparently threatened that Vuong would end up "in pieces".&nbsp;

Reports shared gruesome details which said that Vuong's teeth were forcibly removed at a home in Sydney's southwest.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/black-american-man-freed-after-35-years-for-a-crime-he-did-not-commit-572557">Black American man was jailed since 1988 for a crime he did not commit</a>&nbsp;

Vuong was kidnapped when he was reportedly in bed with a prominent influencer Angel Bowyer at her family's home in Smithfield.&nbsp;

The New South Wales Police said that the kidnapping began in the early hours of last Thursday when six men stormed the home and kidnapped Vuong at 5.20am (local time). The kidnappers had their faces covered and were wielding sledgehammers and guns allegedly.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;UK bans TikTok from government mobile phones&nbsp;

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As quoted by BBC, officers said that he was forced into a vehicle and driven away before being "repeatedly assaulted and tortured over a six-day period" and Detective Supt Joe Doueihi said that the group were "part of a criminal enterprise to extort a large sum of money".&nbsp;

9News reported that the kidnappers had&nbsp;sent a chilling text, which read: "We set a price 5mil ($5 million) ... if you cant meet up 2 our requirements we cut ur boy up bit by bit until you give us what we want," one of the accused sent on an encrypted device."&nbsp;

"Want his body in pieces? Get the 5mil ready. You have 24h to cough up something nice. We waiting, times ticking," it added.&nbsp;

The officer further noted that Vuong was treated by paramedics at the scene before being taken to the hospital, where he is now in stable condition.&nbsp;

According to reports, the suspects have been identified as Lolo Liavaa and Viliami Siasau (both 19 years old), Valali Tonga, Sunia Siasau and John Totau Fahamokioa (all 20 years old), and Kiteau Tatafu, 21.&nbsp;

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At least six men have been charged by the Australian police over the alleged kidnapping and torture of a 26-year-old man in Sydney. Local police have rescued the man in an armed raid.

At least six men have been charged by the Australian police over the alleged kidnapping and torture of a 26-year-old man in Sydney. Local police have rescued the man in an armed raid. He was tortured and held captive for six days. Media reports said that the victim, who has been identified as Peter Vuong, was abducted by a group of kidnappers, who apparently threatened that Vuong would end up "in pieces". Reports shared gruesome details which said that Vuong's teeth were forcibly removed at a home in Sydney's southwest. ALSO READ | Black American man was jailed since 1988 for a crime he did not commit Vuong was kidnapped when he was reportedly in bed with a prominent influencer Angel Bowyer at her family's home in Smithfield. The New South Wales Police said that the kidnapping began in the early hours of last Thursday when six men stormed the home and kidnapped Vuong at 5.20am (local time). The kidnappers had their faces covered and were wielding sledgehammers and guns allegedly. WATCH | UK bans TikTok from government mobile phones × As quoted by BBC, officers said that he was forced into a vehicle and driven away before being "repeatedly assaulted and tortured over a six-day period" and Detective Supt Joe Doueihi said that the group were "part of a criminal enterprise to extort a large sum of money". 9News reported that the kidnappers had sent a chilling text, which read: "We set a price 5mil ($5 million) ... if you cant meet up 2 our requirements we cut ur boy up bit by bit until you give us what we want," one of the accused sent on an encrypted device." "Want his body in pieces? Get the 5mil ready. You have 24h to cough up something nice. We waiting, times ticking," it added. The officer further noted that Vuong was treated by paramedics at the scene before being taken to the hospital, where he is now in stable condition. According to reports, the suspects have been identified as Lolo Liavaa and Viliami Siasau (both 19 years old), Valali Tonga, Sunia Siasau and John Totau Fahamokioa (all 20 years old), and Kiteau Tatafu, 21. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia: With teeth forcibly pulled, man tortured to near-death before rescue

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to travel to Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia in May. The power-packed visit will start with the G7 summit in Japan's Hiroshima.

Indian PM Modi to travel Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia in May month

Australia has signed a multibillion-dollar AUKUS deal for nuclear-powered submarines. Washington is selling Canberra 3 Virginia-class attack submarines, but these vehicles will only be delivered in the 2030s, whereas, China's war in Taiwan could start in 3 years. Is the AUKUS deal nothing but an eyewash?

Gravitas: Why the AUKUS deal will fail to protect Taiwan from China's invasion

Since the United States and the United Kingdom unveiled their plans to provide Australia with nuclear-powered submarines on Monday (March 13), it has sparked a debate around proliferation of nuclear weapons. The announcement made in San Diego, US, was the first time that a loophole in the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) was used to transfer fissile material and nuclear technology from a nuclear weapons state to a non-weapons state, reported the Guardian.

What is the AUKUS deal?

Under the AUKUS mechanism, which is short for Australia, UK, and US, the three countries made a deal by which Canberra would acquire eight nuclear-powered submarines with Washington and Britain’s assistance. The plan is set to cost Australia up to $245 billion by 2055, said a report by Reuters on Tuesday, citing a defence official.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aukus-nuclear-submarine-deal-an-act-of-error-and-danger-china-571840">AUKUS nuke deal: China, Russia flag 'error and danger' that will bring 'years of confrontation'</a>

The announcement was made at a US Naval base in San Diego, California by US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak&nbsp; after 18 months of talks.&nbsp;

What will happen as part of this deal?

In a joint statement by the three nations, a phased approach to deliver the nuclear-powered subs to Australia at the earliest possible date was outlined, each of which is “based on mutual commitments from each nation”.&nbsp; 
 
Phase 1

At the beginning of 2023, Australian military and civilian personnel will be embedded with the US Navy and the British Royal Navy as well as their submarine industrial bases to accelerate the training of Australian personnel. The US plans to increase SSN (submersible ship nuclear, the formal name for submarine vessels) port visits to Australia, where the sailors from the two countries will participate in training and development. On the other hand, the UK will increase visits to Australia in early 2026.&nbsp;

Phase 2 
 
The US will deploy four Virginia-class boats to HMAS Stirling, at a naval port near Perth, over four years, starting in 2027 while Britain will also deploy one of their Astute-class submarines after a few years. This would be done to accelerate the development of the Australian naval personnel, workforce, infrastructure and regulatory system for SSN capability.&nbsp;

Phase 3&nbsp;

By the early 2030s, the US intends to sell three Virginia-class submarines to Australia with a potential option for two more if required. However, the decision would require Congressional approval.&nbsp;

Phase 4

The UK will deliver its first SSN-AUKUS to the Royal Navy by the late 2030s, as a part of the deal. While Australia will deliver the first SSN-AUKUS made in Canberra to the Royal Australian Navy in the early 2040s.&nbsp;

ALSO READ&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-nato-quad-and-aukus-failed-the-world-in-2022-541906">How NATO, Quad and AUKUS failed the world in 2022</a>

The SSN-AUKUS will be a combination of UK submarine design and US defence technology. Both Australia and Britain intend to build nuclear-powered subs in their domestic shipyards before the end of this decade. Meanwhile, Canberra is set to begin the construction of the submarines in South Australia’s Osborne as early as this year.&nbsp;

Why now?

The security agreement announced in 2021 by the three countries is seen as a way to counter China’s growing military presence in the Indo-Pacific region including the South China Sea. Reports suggest that Australia is convinced that it also requires to strengthen its navy which includes having submarines capable of operating far from their base to act as a deterrent and used in the event of a conflict.&nbsp;

“The AUKUS agreement we confirm here in San Diego represents the biggest single investment in Australia’s defence capability in our history, strengthening Australia’s national security and stability in our region,” the Australian PM said during the announcement in the US.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/aukus-submarines-deal-embarks-on-path-of-danger-says-china-572028">Aukus submarines deal embarks on path of danger, says China</a>

The nuclear-powered subs may also strengthen the Australian Navy as they have a distinct advantage over the diesel-electric boats which are a part of the current fleet. Since nuclear submarines generate their own energy source they can leave the port and stay underwater for weeks undetected.&nbsp;

What is NPT?

The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, commonly referred to as NPT, was a landmark international deal signed by a total of 191 countries out of which five are nuclear-weapon states in 1968. According to the United Nations, the objective of this treaty is to “prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology, to promote cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and to further the goal of achieving nuclear disarmament and general and complete disarmament.” The NPT also recognises the US, Russia, China, the UK and France as “weapons states” all of which also have nuclear-powered subs.&nbsp;

What is the cause of concern?

According to a report by the Guardian, there is a loophole in paragraph 14 of the NPT which has been used to transfer fissile material and nuclear technology from a nuclear weapons state to a non-weapons state. Additionally, fissile material used for non-explosive military purposes like naval propulsion, are also exempted from inspections and monitoring by the UN nuclear watchdog the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), as per the treaty.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/aukus-not-a-challenge-to-anybody-says-joe-biden-as-us-shares-nuclear-tech-with-australia-571861">AUKUS not a challenge to 'anybody', says Joe Biden as US shares nuclear tech with Australia</a>

This has sparked fears among arms control experts as it sets a precedent which would potentially be used by some countries to hide highly enriched uranium or plutonium from oversight. Notably, AUKUS will be the first time that the US will share its nuclear-propulsion technology after it did so with the UK in the 1950s.&nbsp;

However, Biden has repeatedly stressed that the submarines are “nuclear-powered, not nuclear-armed” and that “Australia is a proud non-nuclear weapons state and it’s committed to stay that way.”&nbsp;

International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), the Nobel peace prize winner of 2017, said that Australia’s decision to procure and build nuclear-powered submarines poses a significant proliferation risk as well as could be seen as a precursor to Canberra acquiring nuclear weapons someday, reported the Guardian.&nbsp;

The IAEA chief Rafael Grossi said on Tuesday, “Ultimately, the agency must ensure that no proliferation risks will emanate from this project” in the context of the AUKUS deal. He added that Australia will also have to make “an arrangement” with the UN watchdog to use the aforementioned nuclear material.&nbsp;

“This process involves serious legal and complex technical matters,” said Grossi.

In the joint statement, the leaders of the three nations also said that they are “committed to set the highest nuclear non-proliferation standard. The plan we announce today delivers on this commitment and reflects our longstanding leadership in, and respect for, the global nuclear non-proliferation regime.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-thwart-china-australia-to-buy-five-virginia-class-submarines-under-aukus-pact-570218">To thwart China, Australia to buy five Virginia class submarines under AUKUS pact</a> 
 
It added,&nbsp;that they will continue to consult with the IAEA to “develop a non-proliferation approach that sets the strongest precedent for the acquisition of a nuclear-powered submarine capability.”

China and Russia weigh in on the issue

On Tuesday, China said that the three countries are treading a “path of error and danger” following the announcement. The Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said that UK, US and Australia “for the sake of their own geopolitical interests, completely disregard the concerns of the international communities and are walking further and further down the path of error and danger”.&nbsp;

He also went on to accuse them of inciting an arms race and that the deal was “a typical case of Cold War mentality” and that the sale of the nuclear-powered subs “constitutes a severe nuclear proliferation risk, and violates the aims and objectives of the Non-Proliferation Treaty”.&nbsp;

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Tuesday, “There are a lot of questions here related to the problem of non-proliferation. Here we need special transparency, and we need to answer the questions that arise.”

However, he did not elaborate on Russia’s concerns while China has argued that supplying nuclear-powered submarines to Australia amounts to an act of nuclear proliferation.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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Since the United States and the United Kingdom unveiled their plans to provide Australia with nuclear-powered submarines on Monday (March 13), it has sparked a debate around proliferation of nuclear weapons.

Since the United States and the United Kingdom unveiled their plans to provide Australia with nuclear-powered submarines on Monday (March 13), it has sparked a debate around proliferation of nuclear weapons. The announcement made in San Diego, US, was the first time that a loophole in the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) was used to transfer fissile material and nuclear technology from a nuclear weapons state to a non-weapons state, reported the Guardian. What is the AUKUS deal? Under the AUKUS mechanism, which is short for Australia, UK, and US, the three countries made a deal by which Canberra would acquire eight nuclear-powered submarines with Washington and Britain’s assistance. The plan is set to cost Australia up to $245 billion by 2055, said a report by Reuters on Tuesday, citing a defence official. ALSO READ | AUKUS nuke deal: China, Russia flag 'error and danger' that will bring 'years of confrontation' The announcement was made at a US Naval base in San Diego, California by US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak after 18 months of talks. What will happen as part of this deal? In a joint statement by the three nations, a phased approach to deliver the nuclear-powered subs to Australia at the earliest possible date was outlined, each of which is “based on mutual commitments from each nation”. Phase 1 At the beginning of 2023, Australian military and civilian personnel will be embedded with the US Navy and the British Royal Navy as well as their submarine industrial bases to accelerate the training of Australian personnel. The US plans to increase SSN (submersible ship nuclear, the formal name for submarine vessels) port visits to Australia, where the sailors from the two countries will participate in training and development. On the other hand, the UK will increase visits to Australia in early 2026. Phase 2 The US will deploy four Virginia-class boats to HMAS Stirling, at a naval port near Perth, over four years, starting in 2027 while Britain will also deploy one of their Astute-class submarines after a few years. This would be done to accelerate the development of the Australian naval personnel, workforce, infrastructure and regulatory system for SSN capability. Phase 3 By the early 2030s, the US intends to sell three Virginia-class submarines to Australia with a potential option for two more if required. However, the decision would require Congressional approval. Phase 4 The UK will deliver its first SSN-AUKUS to the Royal Navy by the late 2030s, as a part of the deal. While Australia will deliver the first SSN-AUKUS made in Canberra to the Royal Australian Navy in the early 2040s. ALSO READ | How NATO, Quad and AUKUS failed the world in 2022 The SSN-AUKUS will be a combination of UK submarine design and US defence technology. Both Australia and Britain intend to build nuclear-powered subs in their domestic shipyards before the end of this decade. Meanwhile, Canberra is set to begin the construction of the submarines in South Australia’s Osborne as early as this year. Why now? The security agreement announced in 2021 by the three countries is seen as a way to counter China’s growing military presence in the Indo-Pacific region including the South China Sea. Reports suggest that Australia is convinced that it also requires to strengthen its navy which includes having submarines capable of operating far from their base to act as a deterrent and used in the event of a conflict. “The AUKUS agreement we confirm here in San Diego represents the biggest single investment in Australia’s defence capability in our history, strengthening Australia’s national security and stability in our region,” the Australian PM said during the announcement in the US. ALSO WATCH | Aukus submarines deal embarks on path of danger, says China The nuclear-powered subs may also strengthen the Australian Navy as they have a distinct advantage over the diesel-electric boats which are a part of the current fleet. Since nuclear submarines generate their own energy source they can leave the port and stay underwater for weeks undetected. What is NPT? The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, commonly referred to as NPT, was a landmark international deal signed by a total of 191 countries out of which five are nuclear-weapon states in 1968. According to the United Nations, the objective of this treaty is to “prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and weapons technology, to promote cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and to further the goal of achieving nuclear disarmament and general and complete disarmament.” The NPT also recognises the US, Russia, China, the UK and France as “weapons states” all of which also have nuclear-powered subs. What is the cause of concern? According to a report by the Guardian, there is a loophole in paragraph 14 of the NPT which has been used to transfer fissile material and nuclear technology from a nuclear weapons state to a non-weapons state. Additionally, fissile material used for non-explosive military purposes like naval propulsion, are also exempted from inspections and monitoring by the UN nuclear watchdog the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), as per the treaty. ALSO WATCH | AUKUS not a challenge to 'anybody', says Joe Biden as US shares nuclear tech with Australia This has sparked fears among arms control experts as it sets a precedent which would potentially be used by some countries to hide highly enriched uranium or plutonium from oversight. Notably, AUKUS will be the first time that the US will share its nuclear-propulsion technology after it did so with the UK in the 1950s. However, Biden has repeatedly stressed that the submarines are “nuclear-powered, not nuclear-armed” and that “Australia is a proud non-nuclear weapons state and it’s committed to stay that way.” International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), the Nobel peace prize winner of 2017, said that Australia’s decision to procure and build nuclear-powered submarines poses a significant proliferation risk as well as could be seen as a precursor to Canberra acquiring nuclear weapons someday, reported the Guardian. The IAEA chief Rafael Grossi said on Tuesday, “Ultimately, the agency must ensure that no proliferation risks will emanate from this project” in the context of the AUKUS deal. He added that Australia will also have to make “an arrangement” with the UN watchdog to use the aforementioned nuclear material. “This process involves serious legal and complex technical matters,” said Grossi. In the joint statement, the leaders of the three nations also said that they are “committed to set the highest nuclear non-proliferation standard. The plan we announce today delivers on this commitment and reflects our longstanding leadership in, and respect for, the global nuclear non-proliferation regime.” ALSO READ | To thwart China, Australia to buy five Virginia class submarines under AUKUS pact It added, that they will continue to consult with the IAEA to “develop a non-proliferation approach that sets the strongest precedent for the acquisition of a nuclear-powered submarine capability.” China and Russia weigh in on the issue On Tuesday, China said that the three countries are treading a “path of error and danger” following the announcement. The Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said that UK, US and Australia “for the sake of their own geopolitical interests, completely disregard the concerns of the international communities and are walking further and further down the path of error and danger”. He also went on to accuse them of inciting an arms race and that the deal was “a typical case of Cold War mentality” and that the sale of the nuclear-powered subs “constitutes a severe nuclear proliferation risk, and violates the aims and objectives of the Non-Proliferation Treaty”. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Tuesday, “There are a lot of questions here related to the problem of non-proliferation. Here we need special transparency, and we need to answer the questions that arise.” However, he did not elaborate on Russia’s concerns while China has argued that supplying nuclear-powered submarines to Australia amounts to an act of nuclear proliferation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | AUKUS submarine deal sparks nuclear proliferation concerns. Here's why

The United States, Australia and Britain on Monday announced the plan of providing Australia with nuclear-powered attack submarines, a major step towards countering the ambitions of China in the Indo-Pacific.

In a joint statement, US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced the plan for the AUKUS project at the US naval base in San Diego, California.

At the ceremony, PM Albanese said that the purchase of US nuclear-powered submarines and the target of constructing its own vessels marks the "biggest" investment ever made in the defence sector in the history of the country.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-losing-interest-in-acquiring-british-nuclear-submarines-says-ex-defence-minister-568126">Australia losing interest in acquiring British nuclear submarines, says ex-defence minister</a>

The deal with the United States and Britain is "the biggest single investment in Australia's defence capability in all of our history," he said in San Diego, California, alongside British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and US President Joe Biden.

The Prime Minister made the statement as Australia entered the deal with the US and Britain, according to which it will be purchasing five US nuclear-powered submarines and will later work on building a new model with British and US technology as part of an ambitious plan.

US President Biden was hosting his British and Australian counterparts, Prime Minister Albanese and Prime Minister Sunak, on a US naval base in San Diego, California for announcing the plan.

Biden emphasised that the submarines would not be nuclear armed and only nuclear-powered. "These boats will not have nuclear weapons of any kind on them," he stated.

In the late 2030s, Britain will receive delivery of its first SSN-AUKUS submarine, and Australia would take its first delivery in the early 2040s, stated Albanese and the British statement.

The vessels will be built by Rolls-Royce and BAE Systems, said the British statement.

WATCH | WION Speed News: North Korea fires two cruise missiles from submarine

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Meanwhile, National security advisor of Biden, Jake Sullivan, said that the submarine plan illustrated the long-term commitment of Washington to guard "peace and stability" in the Asia-Pacific region.

US' partnership with Australia, which includes exchanging secret nuclear technology which was previously shared only with&nbsp;Britain, is "a decades-long, maybe a century-long commitment," said Sullivan.

Three nuclear-powered, conventionally armed Virginia class vessels will be sold "over the course of the 2030s," with the "possibility of going up to five if that is needed," Sullivan added.

The new model, which is nuclear-powered and carries conventional weapons, is a long-term project and will be dubbed the SSN-AUKUS, he stated.

It will be constructed using US technology and with the base of a British design, and "significant investments in all three industrial bases," said Sullivan.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States, Australia and Britain on Monday announced the plan of providing Australia with nuclear-powered attack submarines, a major step towards countering the ambitions of China in the Indo-Pacific.

The United States, Australia and Britain on Monday announced the plan of providing Australia with nuclear-powered attack submarines, a major step towards countering the ambitions of China in the Indo-Pacific. In a joint statement, US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced the plan for the AUKUS project at the US naval base in San Diego, California. At the ceremony, PM Albanese said that the purchase of US nuclear-powered submarines and the target of constructing its own vessels marks the "biggest" investment ever made in the defence sector in the history of the country. ALSO READ | Australia losing interest in acquiring British nuclear submarines, says ex-defence minister The deal with the United States and Britain is "the biggest single investment in Australia's defence capability in all of our history," he said in San Diego, California, alongside British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and US President Joe Biden. The Prime Minister made the statement as Australia entered the deal with the US and Britain, according to which it will be purchasing five US nuclear-powered submarines and will later work on building a new model with British and US technology as part of an ambitious plan. US President Biden was hosting his British and Australian counterparts, Prime Minister Albanese and Prime Minister Sunak, on a US naval base in San Diego, California for announcing the plan. Biden emphasised that the submarines would not be nuclear armed and only nuclear-powered. "These boats will not have nuclear weapons of any kind on them," he stated. In the late 2030s, Britain will receive delivery of its first SSN-AUKUS submarine, and Australia would take its first delivery in the early 2040s, stated Albanese and the British statement. The vessels will be built by Rolls-Royce and BAE Systems, said the British statement. WATCH | WION Speed News: North Korea fires two cruise missiles from submarine Meanwhile, National security advisor of Biden, Jake Sullivan, said that the submarine plan illustrated the long-term commitment of Washington to guard "peace and stability" in the Asia-Pacific region. US' partnership with Australia, which includes exchanging secret nuclear technology which was previously shared only with Britain, is "a decades-long, maybe a century-long commitment," said Sullivan. Three nuclear-powered, conventionally armed Virginia class vessels will be sold "over the course of the 2030s," with the "possibility of going up to five if that is needed," Sullivan added. The new model, which is nuclear-powered and carries conventional weapons, is a long-term project and will be dubbed the SSN-AUKUS, he stated. It will be constructed using US technology and with the base of a British design, and "significant investments in all three industrial bases," said Sullivan. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Biden, Sunak and Albanese announce nuclear-powered submarine plan for Australia

Australia will buy as many as five US nuclear-powered submarines and later build a new model with US and British technology under an ambitious plan to beef up Western muscle across the Asia-Pacific in the face of a rising China, a U.S. official said Monday.

Australia to buy U.S. Nuclear Submarines

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to travel to Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia in May. The power-packed visit will start with the G7 summit in Japan's Hiroshima, where PM Modi will represent India from May 20 to 21.&nbsp;

The formal invitation for the summit will be extended by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida when he visits Delhi later this month. India has been consecutively invited or considered for an invite to the G7 summit since 2019, and this will be Indian PM Modi's fifth such invitation.&nbsp;

French President Macron extended the invitation in 2019 for the Biarritz summit. In 2020, former United States president Donald Trump was keen to invite India, but the summit could not happen due to the coronavirus crisis.&nbsp;

In 2021, the then-UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson invited India to the G7 summit, but PM Modi could not travel because of the second wave of the Covid pandemic. Last year, PM Modi was in Germany to attend the summit in Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/indian-govt-working-may-force-smartphone-makers-to-remove-pre-installed-apps-report-571963">Indian govt may force smartphone makers to remove pre-installed apps: Report</a>&nbsp;

After Japan, the prime minister will travel to Papua New Guinea for Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation summit (India Pacific summit) on May 22. The forum brings together 14 Pacific Islands — Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu with India at the head of state/ government level.&nbsp;

The first summit happened in Fiji's Suva in 2014, followed by the second summit in Jaipur in 2015. The summit is seen as wider cooperation between India and the Pacific island where India has been involved in development cooperation.&nbsp;

This is the first-ever visit of PM Modi to the country which is the second largest country in the Oceania region after Australia. India has been assisting the country. The Indian High Commissioner handed over a consignment of 7.2 million doses of anti-retroviral drugs to the government of PNG in November 2016.&nbsp;

Furthermore, in a gesture of solidarity, the Indian government announced in 2018 that it would extend a grant of $1 million to PNG. This grant was specifically meant for earthquake relief in areas that were affected by the earthquake that struck the nation in February 2018.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-meets-nokia-ceo-pekka-lundmark-discuss-indias-digital-infrastructure-571949">Indian PM Modi meets Nokia CEO Pekka Lundmark, discuss India's digital infrastructure</a>&nbsp;

The PM will conclude his three-nation visit in Australia where he will attend the Quad summit from May 23 to 24&nbsp;in Sydney. During the visit of Australian PM Anthony Albanese to India earlier this month, he formally extended the invite to PM Modi to attend the summit.&nbsp;

At the press statements in Delhi, PM Modi said, "I thank Prime Minister Albanese for inviting me to the Quad Leaders' Summit which is going to happen in May this year." PM Modi took part in the Quad Leaders virtual meeting in March 2022, the in-person Quad Leaders' Summit in Tokyo in May 2022 and in Washington in 2021.&nbsp;

The Quad's expansion continued to gain momentum as the four countries announced a series of initiatives aimed at addressing critical challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region. With a focus on climate change and disaster resilience, the Quad Climate Change Action and Mitigation Package promised to strengthen efforts towards green shipping, clean energy, and climate-resilient infrastructure. This move signals a collective commitment by the four countries to combat the adverse effects of climate change in the region and beyond.&nbsp;

In addition to climate-related initiatives, the Quad also launched a Common Statement of Principles on Critical Technology Supply Chains, highlighting the importance of building secure and resilient technology infrastructure in the region. These initiatives are expected to have a far-reaching impact on the Indo-Pacific.&nbsp; 
 
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to travel to Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia in May. The power-packed visit will start with the G7 summit in Japan's Hiroshima, where PM Modi will represent India from May 20 to 21.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to travel to Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia in May. The power-packed visit will start with the G7 summit in Japan's Hiroshima, where PM Modi will represent India from May 20 to 21. The formal invitation for the summit will be extended by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida when he visits Delhi later this month. India has been consecutively invited or considered for an invite to the G7 summit since 2019, and this will be Indian PM Modi's fifth such invitation. French President Macron extended the invitation in 2019 for the Biarritz summit. In 2020, former United States president Donald Trump was keen to invite India, but the summit could not happen due to the coronavirus crisis. In 2021, the then-UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson invited India to the G7 summit, but PM Modi could not travel because of the second wave of the Covid pandemic. Last year, PM Modi was in Germany to attend the summit in Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps. ALSO READ | Indian govt may force smartphone makers to remove pre-installed apps: Report After Japan, the prime minister will travel to Papua New Guinea for Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation summit (India Pacific summit) on May 22. The forum brings together 14 Pacific Islands — Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu with India at the head of state/ government level. The first summit happened in Fiji's Suva in 2014, followed by the second summit in Jaipur in 2015. The summit is seen as wider cooperation between India and the Pacific island where India has been involved in development cooperation. This is the first-ever visit of PM Modi to the country which is the second largest country in the Oceania region after Australia. India has been assisting the country. The Indian High Commissioner handed over a consignment of 7.2 million doses of anti-retroviral drugs to the government of PNG in November 2016. Furthermore, in a gesture of solidarity, the Indian government announced in 2018 that it would extend a grant of $1 million to PNG. This grant was specifically meant for earthquake relief in areas that were affected by the earthquake that struck the nation in February 2018. ALSO READ | Indian PM Modi meets Nokia CEO Pekka Lundmark, discuss India's digital infrastructure The PM will conclude his three-nation visit in Australia where he will attend the Quad summit from May 23 to 24 in Sydney. During the visit of Australian PM Anthony Albanese to India earlier this month, he formally extended the invite to PM Modi to attend the summit. At the press statements in Delhi, PM Modi said, "I thank Prime Minister Albanese for inviting me to the Quad Leaders' Summit which is going to happen in May this year." PM Modi took part in the Quad Leaders virtual meeting in March 2022, the in-person Quad Leaders' Summit in Tokyo in May 2022 and in Washington in 2021. The Quad's expansion continued to gain momentum as the four countries announced a series of initiatives aimed at addressing critical challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region. With a focus on climate change and disaster resilience, the Quad Climate Change Action and Mitigation Package promised to strengthen efforts towards green shipping, clean energy, and climate-resilient infrastructure. This move signals a collective commitment by the four countries to combat the adverse effects of climate change in the region and beyond. In addition to climate-related initiatives, the Quad also launched a Common Statement of Principles on Critical Technology Supply Chains, highlighting the importance of building secure and resilient technology infrastructure in the region. These initiatives are expected to have a far-reaching impact on the Indo-Pacific. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: PM Modi to travel to Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia in May

China said&nbsp;that Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States are treading a "path of error and danger" after they unveiled a nuclear-powered submarines deal on Monday. Meanwhile,&nbsp;Russia said that the&nbsp;AUKUS submarine pact will bring 'years of confrontation' in Asia.

"The latest joint statement from the United States, United Kingdom and Australia demonstrates that the three countries, for the sake of their own geopolitical interests, completely disregard the concerns of the international communities and are walking further and further down the path of error and danger," China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said on Tuesday.

The spokesperson&nbsp;accused the three Western allies of inciting an arms race, saying the security deal was "a typical case of Cold War mentality".

The sale of submarines "constitutes a severe nuclear proliferation risk, and violates the aims and objectives of the Non-Proliferation Treaty", Wang said at a regular news conference in Beijing.

The announcement for nuclear submarine deal was made at an event at a naval base in San Diego, California, where the US President Joe Biden hosted Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Aukus aims to counter china's growth footprint in Indo-Pacific

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With a US Virginia-class nuclear submarine in the background of three leaders, Biden said the United States had "safeguarded stability in the Indo-Pacific for decades" and that the submarine alliance would bolster "the prospect of peace for decades to come".

Albanese said the deal represents the biggest single investment in Australia's defence capability "in all of our history".

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-labels-china-as-a-systemic-challenge-to-the-world-order-571634">UK PM Rishi Sunak labels China as 'systemic challenge' to world order</a>

The submarines are expected to be equipped with long-range cruise missiles, offering a potent deterrent.

The Australian Prime Minister said&nbsp;that the wider economic impact at home would be similar to the introduction of the automobile industry in the country after World War II.

Albanese underlined that Australia was now only the second country, after Britain, to be granted access to US naval nuclear secrets.

Three conventionally armed, nuclear-powered Virginia class vessels will be sold "over the course of the 2030s", with the "possibility of going up to five if that is needed", said Biden's national security advisor, Jake Sullivan.

Britain and Australia will then embark on building a new model, also nuclear-powered and carrying conventional weapons, dubbed the SSN-AUKUS. This will be a British design, with US technology, and with "significant investments in all three industrial bases", Sullivan said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China said that Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States are treading a "path of error and danger" after they unveiled a nuclear-powered submarines deal on Monday.

China said that Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States are treading a "path of error and danger" after they unveiled a nuclear-powered submarines deal on Monday. Meanwhile, Russia said that the AUKUS submarine pact will bring 'years of confrontation' in Asia. "The latest joint statement from the United States, United Kingdom and Australia demonstrates that the three countries, for the sake of their own geopolitical interests, completely disregard the concerns of the international communities and are walking further and further down the path of error and danger," China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said on Tuesday. The spokesperson accused the three Western allies of inciting an arms race, saying the security deal was "a typical case of Cold War mentality". The sale of submarines "constitutes a severe nuclear proliferation risk, and violates the aims and objectives of the Non-Proliferation Treaty", Wang said at a regular news conference in Beijing. The announcement for nuclear submarine deal was made at an event at a naval base in San Diego, California, where the US President Joe Biden hosted Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. ALSO WATCH | Aukus aims to counter china's growth footprint in Indo-Pacific × With a US Virginia-class nuclear submarine in the background of three leaders, Biden said the United States had "safeguarded stability in the Indo-Pacific for decades" and that the submarine alliance would bolster "the prospect of peace for decades to come". Albanese said the deal represents the biggest single investment in Australia's defence capability "in all of our history". ALSO READ | UK PM Rishi Sunak labels China as 'systemic challenge' to world order The submarines are expected to be equipped with long-range cruise missiles, offering a potent deterrent. The Australian Prime Minister said that the wider economic impact at home would be similar to the introduction of the automobile industry in the country after World War II. Albanese underlined that Australia was now only the second country, after Britain, to be granted access to US naval nuclear secrets. Three conventionally armed, nuclear-powered Virginia class vessels will be sold "over the course of the 2030s", with the "possibility of going up to five if that is needed", said Biden's national security advisor, Jake Sullivan. Britain and Australia will then embark on building a new model, also nuclear-powered and carrying conventional weapons, dubbed the SSN-AUKUS. This will be a British design, with US technology, and with "significant investments in all three industrial bases", Sullivan said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

AUKUS nuke deal: China, Russia flag 'error and danger' that will bring 'years of confrontation'

The leaders of the U.S, UK and Australia will meet in San Diego to finalise the AUKUS deal. They are expected to make an announcement on nuclear-powered submarines that will deepen defence ties.

Australia to receive nuclear-powered submarines under AUKUS deal

Biden, Albanese, Sunak to meet in San Diego to finalise AUKUS deal

Australia's Bureau of Meteorology predicted that a record-breaking flood in the country's Queensland state was forecast to peak on Sunday. Almost 100 residents of an outback town were moved to higher ground. The flood has been triggered by heavy rain over the past week. The remote town of Burketown has been the worst hit. It is about 2100 km northwest of state capital Brisbane.

Dan McKinlay, chief executive of the local council responsible for Burketown, said on Sunday that 97 residents had been airlifted out in the past 48 hours.

McKinlay told ABC radio that water levels in the area were "at heights not previous known" and that the town looked like it was "sitting in the middle of an ocean"

The Bureau of Meterology said that the current flood has already topped a March 2011 record of 6.78 metres.

The crisis comes after frequent flooding in Australia's east over the last two years due to a multi-year La Nina weather event, including once-in-a-century floods that hit remote areas in the neighbouring Northern Territory, in January.

On Saturday, police released aerial images of the Burketown flooding, showing properties and swaths of land submerged.

The Bureau of Meteorology expected the weather event to continue this week, but said it was now in a "receding" phase.

"Further showers and isolated thunderstorms are forecast for the remainder of Sunday, however widespread rainfall has generally eased in the area," the forecaster said, adding that the peak of the flood waters could extend into Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Australia's Bureau of Meteorology predicted that a record-breaking flood in the country's Queensland state was forecast to peak on Sunday. Almost 100 residents of an outback town were moved to higher ground.

Australia's Bureau of Meteorology predicted that a record-breaking flood in the country's Queensland state was forecast to peak on Sunday. Almost 100 residents of an outback town were moved to higher ground. The flood has been triggered by heavy rain over the past week. The remote town of Burketown has been the worst hit. It is about 2100 km northwest of state capital Brisbane. Dan McKinlay, chief executive of the local council responsible for Burketown, said on Sunday that 97 residents had been airlifted out in the past 48 hours. McKinlay told ABC radio that water levels in the area were "at heights not previous known" and that the town looked like it was "sitting in the middle of an ocean" The Bureau of Meterology said that the current flood has already topped a March 2011 record of 6.78 metres. The crisis comes after frequent flooding in Australia's east over the last two years due to a multi-year La Nina weather event, including once-in-a-century floods that hit remote areas in the neighbouring Northern Territory, in January. On Saturday, police released aerial images of the Burketown flooding, showing properties and swaths of land submerged. The Bureau of Meteorology expected the weather event to continue this week, but said it was now in a "receding" phase. "Further showers and isolated thunderstorms are forecast for the remainder of Sunday, however widespread rainfall has generally eased in the area," the forecaster said, adding that the peak of the flood waters could extend into Monday. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Record-breaking Queensland flooding to peak, says forecaster

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said his country will not tolerate attacks on Hindu temples and religious places after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the issue of vandalism of Hindu temples in the Down Under country.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said his country will not tolerate attacks on Hindu temples and religious places after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the issue of vandalism of Hindu temples in the Down Under country. "I gave him (PM Modi) the assurance that Australia is a country that respects people's faith. That we don't tolerate the sort of extreme actions and attacks that we've seen on religious buildings, be they Hindu temples, mosques, synagogues, or churches," Albanese was quoted as saying by PTI. The Indian PM on Friday, had raised the matter during a joint press conference, breaking away from the bonhomie of the entire tour to express his concern. Modi described the attacks on Hindu temples as a 'matter of regret'. "The Indian community is making a significant contribution to the society and economy of Australia. It is a matter of regret that reports have come regularly from Australia in the last few weeks about attacks on temples," said PM Modi. WATCH | Indian PM Modi raises temple vandalism in Australia with PM Albanese during bilateral talks × "It is natural that such news worries the people in India, and disturbs our minds. I have shared these feelings and concerns of ours with Prime Minister Albanese. And he has assured me that the safety of the Indian community is a special priority for him. Our teams will be in regular touch on this topic, and will cooperate as much as possible," he added. The Australian PM was on a four-day India visit and held several key bilateral talks with the Indian side. In his closing remarks, Albanese said the two countries were working towards a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement. Albanese added that he was hopeful that the agreement will be finalised by the end of this year. The highlight of the trip, however, was the visit by the two leaders to the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat ahead of the start of the fourth Border Gavaskar Test match between India and Australia. WATCH: PM Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese meet Ind-Aus players before 4th Test (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

PM Albanese says Australia won’t tolerate attacks on Hindu temples, other religious places

Residents in Australia's Queensland state were evacuated on Saturday (March 11) as record-breaking floods sparked by heavy rain lashing the region's northwest. The police said that 53 residents of the isolated Gulf of Carpentaria of Burketown had been evacuated since the floods earlier this week. Around 100 residents remained in Gulf Country town, with police urging a full evacuation on Saturday, as Australia's weather forecaster predicted river levels in the area to peak on Sunday, the news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter, the police shared visuals of the flooding in Burketown and urged all remaining residents to leave.&nbsp;"Police are strongly urging all remaining residents to leave the community of Burketown as soon as possible. This is particularly relevant to the elderly and people with young children," the police tweeted.

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Police have released vision of flooding in Burketown today. 
 
All remaining residents are being urged to leave. 
 
For up-to-date information, visit: <a href="https://t.co/5XobASxKXh">https://t.co/5XobASxKXh</a> <a href="https://t.co/nEsSQ0s766">pic.twitter.com/nEsSQ0s766</a>
— Queensland Police (@QldPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/QldPolice/status/1634406513442975744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The Burke Shire Council, meanwhile, issued a final alert on Saturday urging the residents to evacuate. "Waters are continuing to rise in the Burketown Community and surrounding shire. At the moment, the water movements are unpredictable and are rising at a rapid rate. The safety of our community members is paramount and we strongly encourage residents to leave," the council said.&nbsp;

It also warned residents that sewer and power services are expected to be cut from Saturday night, according to a report by news.com.au.&nbsp;

Australia has been lashed by heavy rain in the last two years, driven by back-to-back La Nina climate cycles over the Pacific. However, the country's meteorology bureau has predicted drier and warmer weather in the months ahead as La Nina nears its end. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Residents in Australia's Queensland state were evacuated on Saturday (March 11) as record-breaking floods sparked by heavy rain lashing the region's northwest. The police said that 53 residents of the isolated Gulf of Carpentaria of Burketown had been evacuated since the floods earlier this week.

Residents in Australia's Queensland state were evacuated on Saturday (March 11) as record-breaking floods sparked by heavy rain lashing the region's northwest. The police said that 53 residents of the isolated Gulf of Carpentaria of Burketown had been evacuated since the floods earlier this week. Around 100 residents remained in Gulf Country town, with police urging a full evacuation on Saturday, as Australia's weather forecaster predicted river levels in the area to peak on Sunday, the news agency Reuters reported. Taking to Twitter, the police shared visuals of the flooding in Burketown and urged all remaining residents to leave. "Police are strongly urging all remaining residents to leave the community of Burketown as soon as possible. This is particularly relevant to the elderly and people with young children," the police tweeted. Police have released vision of flooding in Burketown today. All remaining residents are being urged to leave. For up-to-date information, visit: https://t.co/5XobASxKXh pic.twitter.com/nEsSQ0s766 — Queensland Police (@QldPolice) March 11, 2023 × The Burke Shire Council, meanwhile, issued a final alert on Saturday urging the residents to evacuate. "Waters are continuing to rise in the Burketown Community and surrounding shire. At the moment, the water movements are unpredictable and are rising at a rapid rate. The safety of our community members is paramount and we strongly encourage residents to leave," the council said. It also warned residents that sewer and power services are expected to be cut from Saturday night, according to a report by news.com.au. Australia has been lashed by heavy rain in the last two years, driven by back-to-back La Nina climate cycles over the Pacific. However, the country's meteorology bureau has predicted drier and warmer weather in the months ahead as La Nina nears its end. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia: Govt evacuates residents of Queensland amid record-breaking floods in region

Fifty-three residents of the isolated Gulf Country town of Burketown, about 2,115km northwest of state capital Brisbane, had been evacuated since heavy rain triggered floods earlier this week, police said Saturday.

Heavy rain in Australia triggers flood evacuations in Queensland

Indian cricket diplomacy is not new. The largest cricket stadium in the world was visited by a high-profile group led by Australian PM Albanese & Indian PM Modi. Amid loud cheers, both Modi & Albanese attended the fourth & final match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

PM Modi & Australian counterpart Albanese greet cricketers ahead of the fourth Test

The Australian prime minister is on a four-day India visit. The focus is on shared concerns about china, and deepening trade ties. Today, Albanese will meet India's external affairs minister, followed by talks with Indian counterpart Narendra Modi. A press statement after the meeting between the two prime ministers; and the exchange of agreements; is expected around noon, India time. Albanese is on his maiden visit as prime minister to India and the first by an Australian premiere in six years. The Australian prime minister will also call on India's president, Draupadi Murmu. He is accompanied by Australia's trade and resources ministers. Australia is gunning for a free-trade deal, following a recent interim agreement. India is Australia's sixth-largest trading partner and fourth-largest export market and second-largest export market for education.

Bilateral talks between Albanese & Indian PM Modi | Shared concerns about China, focus on trade ties

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news and top headlines from all across the globe.

WION Speed News: Australian PM Anthony Albanese holds bilateral talks with PM Narendra Modi

Indian PM Narendra Modi and Anthony Albanese held bilateral talks at the Hyderabad House in Delhi. PM Modi raised the issue of attacks on temples in Australia with PM Albanese.

Indian PM Modi raises temple vandalism in Australia with PM Albanese during bilateral talks

Australia is expected to buy 5 U.S. Virginia class nuclear-powered submarines as a part of an AUKUS deal, as leaders plan to meet on Monday. Prime minister Anthony Albanese is currently on a visit to India just ahead of the AUKUS meet. What does it mean for the Quad partners? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Australia snubs out British submarines?

PM Modi says QUAD members boosting relations; India, Australia increasing links between Armed Forces

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese on Friday met at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi to hold bilateral talks. The Australian PM on Friday also met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. The EAM said Albanese’s visit and today’s annual summit will take India-Australia ties to a higher level. “Delighted to call on Prime Minister @AlboMP of Australia this morning. His visit and today’s Annual Summit will take our ties to a higher level,” Jaishankar tweeted on Friday.

PM Modi, Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese hold bilateral talks at Hyderabad House | WION

The Australian pm is on a 4-day India visit. The focus is on shared concerns about china, and deepening trade ties. Today, Albanese will watch a cricket match with Indian pm Narendra Modi. Albanese, in his maiden visit as prime minister to India & the first by an Australian premier in six years, will visit Indian naval ship Vikrant later today. The Australian prime minister is expected to discuss efforts towards a free-trade deal, following a recent interim agreement. India is Australia's sixth-largest trading partner, fourth-largest export market & second-largest export market for education. India and Australia , with japan and the united states, make up the quad. The grouping is seen as a bulwark against Chinese assertiveness in the Asia-pacific region. India & china have been locked in a border stand-off. Chinese jets have been intercepting the surveillance planes of Australia & other countries in the Indo-pacific.

Australian PM Albanese to visit INS Vikrant, India's first indigenous aircraft carrier | Details

Australia's&nbsp;Prime Minister Anthony Albanese arrived in India on Wednesday on his first visit since assuming office in&nbsp;May last year.&nbsp;Albanese arrived in Gujarat's Ahmedabad on Wednesday evening and headed straight to the Sabarmati Ashram in the city to pay tributes to Mahatma Gandhi.

Taking to Twitter, he wrote, "A true privilege to pay homage to Gandhi's legacy at Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad."

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A true privilege to pay homage to Gandhi's legacy at Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. <a href="https://t.co/1yglPVq6LA">pic.twitter.com/1yglPVq6LA</a>
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlboMP/status/1633432444396515331?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The prime minister was given a warm welcome upon his arrival. "An incredible welcome to Ahmedabad, India. The beginning of an important trip for Australia-India relations," he wrote in a separate tweet.&nbsp;

At a later programme in Gujarat, he announced that Australia's Deakin University would be setting up its branch at GIFT City in Gandhinagar. He said India and Australia have finalised Australia-India Education Qualification Recognition Mechanism.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/Deakin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Deakin</a> University will also become the first foreign university approved to open a campus in India - with more Australian universities hoping to join them. 
 
This is an exciting beginning for stronger educational, commercial and cultural relationships. <a href="https://t.co/pO4DMcHILK">pic.twitter.com/pO4DMcHILK</a>
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlboMP/status/1633485926860193792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, as the prime minister embarked on his visit to India, he lauded the Indian diaspora in Australia saying that Australia is a better place because of "our large, diverse Indian-Australian community."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-since-taking-charge-australia-pm-albanese-arrives-in-india-569957">In a first since taking charge, Australia PM Albanese arrives in India</a>

He arrived in India on Wednesday along with a delegation of ministers and business leaders.&nbsp;Albanese met Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Governor Acharya Devvrat&nbsp;and also actively participated in the Holi celebrations.

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Honoured to celebrate Holi in Ahmedabad, India. Holi’s message of renewal through the triumph of good over evil is an enduring reminder for all of us. <a href="https://t.co/DSyxcY02bX">pic.twitter.com/DSyxcY02bX</a>
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlboMP/status/1633458784759853056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Australia PM Albanese in Ahmedabad, India on Holi <a href="https://t.co/d0xbjJYM5g">pic.twitter.com/d0xbjJYM5g</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1633460482446327808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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On Thursday, Albanese and Indian Prime Minister Modi will arrive at the Narendra Modi Stadium at Motera in Ahmedabad to watch the first-day play of the fourth Test between Australia and India. Later in the day, Albanese will leave for Mumbai. On Friday, he will be in New Delhi to take part in the Ceremonial Reception at the Rashtrapati Bhawan which will be followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at Rajghat, the news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australians-ditch-low-fat-milk-for-full-cream-as-misconceptions-clear-569940">Australians ditch low-fat milk for full-cream as misconceptions clear</a>

The Australian PM will then meet India's Foreign Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. He will also be meeting Prime Minister Modi at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi and President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhawan.

The first in-person India-Australia Annual Summit will take place during Albanese's four-day visit to India. At the annual summit, the leaders will take stock of progress made on various initiatives under the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, ANI reported.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-chief-warns-gender-equality-will-take-300-years-to-achieve-569947">UN Chief warns gender equality will take 300 years to achieve</a>

The summit will also pave&nbsp;the way for new initiatives and enhanced cooperation in a diverse range of sectors between the two countries.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese arrived in India on Wednesday on his first visit since assuming office in May last year. Albanese arrived in Gujarat's Ahmedabad on Wednesday evening and headed straight to the Sabarmati Ashram in the city to pay tributes to Mahatma Gandhi.

Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese arrived in India on Wednesday on his first visit since assuming office in May last year. Albanese arrived in Gujarat's Ahmedabad on Wednesday evening and headed straight to the Sabarmati Ashram in the city to pay tributes to Mahatma Gandhi. Taking to Twitter, he wrote, "A true privilege to pay homage to Gandhi's legacy at Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad." A true privilege to pay homage to Gandhi's legacy at Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. pic.twitter.com/1yglPVq6LA — Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) March 8, 2023 × The prime minister was given a warm welcome upon his arrival. "An incredible welcome to Ahmedabad, India. The beginning of an important trip for Australia-India relations," he wrote in a separate tweet. At a later programme in Gujarat, he announced that Australia's Deakin University would be setting up its branch at GIFT City in Gandhinagar. He said India and Australia have finalised Australia-India Education Qualification Recognition Mechanism. @Deakin University will also become the first foreign university approved to open a campus in India - with more Australian universities hoping to join them. This is an exciting beginning for stronger educational, commercial and cultural relationships. pic.twitter.com/pO4DMcHILK — Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) March 8, 2023 × Earlier, as the prime minister embarked on his visit to India, he lauded the Indian diaspora in Australia saying that Australia is a better place because of "our large, diverse Indian-Australian community." Also Read | In a first since taking charge, Australia PM Albanese arrives in India He arrived in India on Wednesday along with a delegation of ministers and business leaders. Albanese met Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Governor Acharya Devvrat and also actively participated in the Holi celebrations. Honoured to celebrate Holi in Ahmedabad, India. Holi’s message of renewal through the triumph of good over evil is an enduring reminder for all of us. pic.twitter.com/DSyxcY02bX — Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) March 8, 2023 × Australia PM Albanese in Ahmedabad, India on Holi pic.twitter.com/d0xbjJYM5g — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) March 8, 2023 × On Thursday, Albanese and Indian Prime Minister Modi will arrive at the Narendra Modi Stadium at Motera in Ahmedabad to watch the first-day play of the fourth Test between Australia and India. Later in the day, Albanese will leave for Mumbai. On Friday, he will be in New Delhi to take part in the Ceremonial Reception at the Rashtrapati Bhawan which will be followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at Rajghat, the news agency ANI reported. Also Read | Australians ditch low-fat milk for full-cream as misconceptions clear The Australian PM will then meet India's Foreign Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. He will also be meeting Prime Minister Modi at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi and President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhawan. The first in-person India-Australia Annual Summit will take place during Albanese's four-day visit to India. At the annual summit, the leaders will take stock of progress made on various initiatives under the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, ANI reported. Watch | UN Chief warns gender equality will take 300 years to achieve The summit will also pave the way for new initiatives and enhanced cooperation in a diverse range of sectors between the two countries. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Anthony Albanese announces education recognition mechanism, Indian degrees to be recognised in Australia

Australia is expected to buy up to five US Virginia class nuclear-powered submarines in the 2030s as part of a landmark defence agreement between Washington, Canberra and London, four US officials said on Wednesday, in a deal that would present a new challenge to China.

The agreement, known as the AUKUS pact, will have multiple stages with at least one US submarine visiting Australian ports in the coming years and end in the late 2030s with a new class of submarines being built with British designs and American technology, one of the officials said.

US President Joe Biden will host leaders of Australia and Britain in San Diego on Monday to chart a way forward for provision of the nuclear-powered submarines and other high-tech weaponry to Australia.

China has condemned the effort by the Western allies, who are seeking to counter China's military buildup, pressure on Taiwan and increasingly muscular deployments in the contested South China Sea.

Two of the officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said that after the annual port visits, the United States would forward deploy some submarines in Western Australia by around 2027.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-scuttles-chinas-bid-to-pass-anti-aukus-resolution-at-iaea-521329">Read more:&nbsp;India scuttles China's attempt to pass anti-AUKUS resolution at IAEA meet</a>

In the early 2030s, Australia would buy three Virginia-class submarines and have the option to buy two more. AUKUS is expected to be Australia's biggest-ever defence project and offers the prospect of jobs in all three countries.

Australia has an existing fleet of six conventionally powered Collins-class submarines, which will have their service life extended to 2036. Nuclear submarines can stay underwater for longer than conventional ones and are harder to detect.

The officials did not elaborate on the planned new class of submarines, including offering specifics about production locations.

The Pentagon referred queries to the White House, which declined to confirm details about any upcoming announcement. The British Embassy in Washington did not comment directly on the Reuters report but repeated an announcement from London that British

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak would travel to the United States for further talks on AUKUS. The Australian Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Under the initial AUKUS deal announced in 2021, the United States and Britain agreed to provide Australia with the technology and capability to deploy nuclear-powered submarines as part of joint efforts to counter the increasing threat posed by China in the Indo-Pacific region.

But a deal between the three countries on how specifically to achieve that goal had not been ironed out.

The US Congress has been briefed several times in recent weeks on the impending AUKUS deal to garner support for the legal changes needed to smooth out technology transfer issues for the highly protected nuclear propulsion and sonar systems that will be aboard Australia’s new submarines, a congressional source said.

Over the next five years, Australian workers will come to US submarine shipyards to observe and train. This training will directly benefit US submarine production as there is currently a labour shortfall for shipyard workers the US needs to build its submarines, the source said.

It is unclear how the upcoming announcement might affect the US Navy's expectations for its own submarine acquisitions in coming years.

The Navy’s 30-year shipbuilding plan released last year forecast submarines being produced at a rate of 1.76 to 2.24 per year and forecast the fleet to grow between 60 to 69 nuclear attack submarines by 2052, according to the Congressional Research Service.

General Dynamics Corp which makes Virginia class submarines, has 17 of them in its current backlog delivering through 2032.

To date, no party to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) other than the five countries the treaty recognizes as weapons states - the United States, Russia, China, Britain and France - has nuclear submarines.

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Australia is expected to buy up to five US Virginia class nuclear-powered submarines in the 2030s as part of a landmark defence agreement between Washington, Canberra and London, four US officials said on Wednesday, in a deal that would present a new challenge to China.

Australia is expected to buy up to five US Virginia class nuclear-powered submarines in the 2030s as part of a landmark defence agreement between Washington, Canberra and London, four US officials said on Wednesday, in a deal that would present a new challenge to China. The agreement, known as the AUKUS pact, will have multiple stages with at least one US submarine visiting Australian ports in the coming years and end in the late 2030s with a new class of submarines being built with British designs and American technology, one of the officials said. US President Joe Biden will host leaders of Australia and Britain in San Diego on Monday to chart a way forward for provision of the nuclear-powered submarines and other high-tech weaponry to Australia. China has condemned the effort by the Western allies, who are seeking to counter China's military buildup, pressure on Taiwan and increasingly muscular deployments in the contested South China Sea. Two of the officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said that after the annual port visits, the United States would forward deploy some submarines in Western Australia by around 2027. Read more: India scuttles China's attempt to pass anti-AUKUS resolution at IAEA meet In the early 2030s, Australia would buy three Virginia-class submarines and have the option to buy two more. AUKUS is expected to be Australia's biggest-ever defence project and offers the prospect of jobs in all three countries. Australia has an existing fleet of six conventionally powered Collins-class submarines, which will have their service life extended to 2036. Nuclear submarines can stay underwater for longer than conventional ones and are harder to detect. The officials did not elaborate on the planned new class of submarines, including offering specifics about production locations. The Pentagon referred queries to the White House, which declined to confirm details about any upcoming announcement. The British Embassy in Washington did not comment directly on the Reuters report but repeated an announcement from London that British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak would travel to the United States for further talks on AUKUS. The Australian Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Under the initial AUKUS deal announced in 2021, the United States and Britain agreed to provide Australia with the technology and capability to deploy nuclear-powered submarines as part of joint efforts to counter the increasing threat posed by China in the Indo-Pacific region. But a deal between the three countries on how specifically to achieve that goal had not been ironed out. The US Congress has been briefed several times in recent weeks on the impending AUKUS deal to garner support for the legal changes needed to smooth out technology transfer issues for the highly protected nuclear propulsion and sonar systems that will be aboard Australia’s new submarines, a congressional source said. Over the next five years, Australian workers will come to US submarine shipyards to observe and train. This training will directly benefit US submarine production as there is currently a labour shortfall for shipyard workers the US needs to build its submarines, the source said. It is unclear how the upcoming announcement might affect the US Navy's expectations for its own submarine acquisitions in coming years. The Navy’s 30-year shipbuilding plan released last year forecast submarines being produced at a rate of 1.76 to 2.24 per year and forecast the fleet to grow between 60 to 69 nuclear attack submarines by 2052, according to the Congressional Research Service. General Dynamics Corp which makes Virginia class submarines, has 17 of them in its current backlog delivering through 2032. To date, no party to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) other than the five countries the treaty recognizes as weapons states - the United States, Russia, China, Britain and France - has nuclear submarines. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

To thwart China, Australia to buy five Virginia class submarines under AUKUS pact

Indian PM Modi & Australian counterpart visit the world's largest cricket stadium | Details

Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese is on a four-day visit to India. The focus is on boosting overall bilateral engagement in a range of areas, including trade, investment and critical minerals. Albanese is set to land in New Delhi later today, his first visit to India after becoming the prime minister in may last year. Australia is the largest supplier of iron ore to china - but is seeking to diversify its customers for critical minerals. Last month, the country blocked a Chinese investment in a rare earths miner on national interest grounds. India and Australia are security partners through the quad, which also includes the united states and japan. China seeks to undermine the rules-based order with a revisionist challenge of the status quo. After his India trip, the Australian prime minister will visit the U.S. For a bilateral meeting with joe Biden. Reports say Albanese is expected to sign a long-awaited pact to build a fleet of nuclear submarines during his U.S. Visit.

QUAD member Australia seeking to diversify investment partners | After India, Albanese to visit U.S.

Health-conscious Australians are ditching low-fat or skim milk for full cream milk after research showed that full-fat dairy products are not as harmful as previously thought.

The latest supermarket sales data provided by Dairy Australia showed that 71 per cent of the Australian milk market has now been captured by full cream milk—a staggering 10 per cent jump in popularity over 10 years.

“What is driving that is a realisation that full-fat dairy milk is not bad for you,” Glenys Zucco, a marketing manager and dietician with Dairy Australia, told the Guardian.

She said that a decade ago, full-fat dairy products were associated with weight gain, heart disease, high cholesterol and chronic illnesses, she said.

"The saturated fats in regular fat dairy products don't have the same negative effect on heart disease risk as saturated fats found in other foods such as fatty meats, packaged sweets, pastries, and takeaway foods," she added.

But as those misconceptions regarding full-fat cream milk were found to be “untrue”, more Australians started avoiding skimmed milk.

“We know that regardless of the choice between dairy milks, the outcomes for our weight and heart health are not impacted,” Jemma O’Hanlon, the vice-president of Dieticians Australia told the UK newspaper.

“And we have known for years the benefits of milk in general,” O’Hanlon said, highlighting milk’s high levels of calcium and nutrients such as zinc and potassium.

According to ABC News, Australian per capita consumption of milk was 93 litres per person for the year 2021–22, which equals just over 250 millilitres per day.

Dairy Australia reported that drinking milk sales showed a small jump&nbsp;during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The increased demand for milk drove up the consumption of fresh drinking milk among&nbsp;consumers.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Health-conscious Australians are ditching low-fat or skim milk for full cream milk after research showed that full-fat dairy products are not as harmful as previously thought.

Health-conscious Australians are ditching low-fat or skim milk for full cream milk after research showed that full-fat dairy products are not as harmful as previously thought. The latest supermarket sales data provided by Dairy Australia showed that 71 per cent of the Australian milk market has now been captured by full cream milk—a staggering 10 per cent jump in popularity over 10 years. “What is driving that is a realisation that full-fat dairy milk is not bad for you,” Glenys Zucco, a marketing manager and dietician with Dairy Australia, told the Guardian. She said that a decade ago, full-fat dairy products were associated with weight gain, heart disease, high cholesterol and chronic illnesses, she said. "The saturated fats in regular fat dairy products don't have the same negative effect on heart disease risk as saturated fats found in other foods such as fatty meats, packaged sweets, pastries, and takeaway foods," she added. But as those misconceptions regarding full-fat cream milk were found to be “untrue”, more Australians started avoiding skimmed milk. “We know that regardless of the choice between dairy milks, the outcomes for our weight and heart health are not impacted,” Jemma O’Hanlon, the vice-president of Dieticians Australia told the UK newspaper. “And we have known for years the benefits of milk in general,” O’Hanlon said, highlighting milk’s high levels of calcium and nutrients such as zinc and potassium. According to ABC News, Australian per capita consumption of milk was 93 litres per person for the year 2021–22, which equals just over 250 millilitres per day. Dairy Australia reported that drinking milk sales showed a small jump during the COVID-19 pandemic. The increased demand for milk drove up the consumption of fresh drinking milk among consumers. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Australians ditch low-fat milk for full-cream as research clears misconception

It is PM Albanese's first bilateral visit to India since the Labour Party government was sworn in May 2022. The visit to India aims to further strengthen India-Australia bilateral relations.

Australian PM Anthony Albanese's 4-day India visit begins | Details |

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