An Australian court on Wednesday agreed to hear a challenge to the country's controversial ban on citizens returning home from coronavirus-hit India.

A federal court said it would urgently hear a case brought by a 73-year-old man living in Bangalore who wishes to return.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/73-yr-old-australian-stuck-in-bengaluru-sues-morrison-govt-for-ban-on-flights-from-india-382952">73-yr-old Australian stuck in Bengaluru sues Morrison govt for ban on flights from India </a>&nbsp;

Prime Minister Scott Morrison this week banned arrivals from India, which is recording hundreds of thousands of new coronavirus infections each day.

Under the measures, Australian citizens who return home face jail time and heavy fines.

The move has caused widespread outrage, with Morrison's own allies describing it as racist and an abandonment of vulnerable Australians overseas.

The conservative government has argued the ban is necessary to prevent&nbsp;Australia's quarantine facilities from being overwhelmed with Covid-positive arrivals.

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Christopher Ward, the lawyer representing the 73-year-old man, said his client was challenging the ban on several grounds of constitutionality, "proportionality and reasonableness".&nbsp;

Justice Stephen Burley ordered that a further hearing date would be set in the next 24 to 48 hours.

Australia&nbsp;has no widespread community transmission of COVID-19&nbsp;but has seen several outbreaks emerge from hotel quarantine facilities, causing disruptive city lockdowns.

There are estimated to be around 9,000 Australian citizens in India, including high-profile cricketers playing the now-suspended Indian Premier League.

Morrison on Tuesday refused to amend the ban but insisted it was "highly unlikely" the punishment would ever be meted out.&nbsp;

The ban is currently scheduled to run until May 15.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-accuses-australia-of-violating-human-rights-over-india-travel-ban-382933">UN accuses Australia of violating human rights over India travel ban</a>

Monash University constitutional law professor Luke Beck predicted it would be difficult for the challenge to succeed, and even a temporary injunction is unlikely.

"The Australian constitution doesn't set out very many rights that individuals have," he told AFP, adding that there is no explicit right to return home.

The challenge may be trying to convince the court that the measures are disproportionate to the threat, but "judges tend to side with the government's public health expert", he said.

"It's quite unlikely that this challenge will succeed."

An Australian court on Wednesday agreed to hear a challenge to the country's controversial ban on citizens returning home from coronavirus-hit India. A federal court said it would urgently hear a case brought by a 73-year-old man living in Bangalore who wishes to return.

An Australian court on Wednesday agreed to hear a challenge to the country's controversial ban on citizens returning home from coronavirus-hit India. A federal court said it would urgently hear a case brought by a 73-year-old man living in Bangalore who wishes to return. Also read | 73-yr-old Australian stuck in Bengaluru sues Morrison govt for ban on flights from India Prime Minister Scott Morrison this week banned arrivals from India, which is recording hundreds of thousands of new coronavirus infections each day. Under the measures, Australian citizens who return home face jail time and heavy fines. The move has caused widespread outrage, with Morrison's own allies describing it as racist and an abandonment of vulnerable Australians overseas. The conservative government has argued the ban is necessary to prevent Australia's quarantine facilities from being overwhelmed with Covid-positive arrivals. Christopher Ward, the lawyer representing the 73-year-old man, said his client was challenging the ban on several grounds of constitutionality, "proportionality and reasonableness". Justice Stephen Burley ordered that a further hearing date would be set in the next 24 to 48 hours. Australia has no widespread community transmission of COVID-19 but has seen several outbreaks emerge from hotel quarantine facilities, causing disruptive city lockdowns. There are estimated to be around 9,000 Australian citizens in India, including high-profile cricketers playing the now-suspended Indian Premier League. Morrison on Tuesday refused to amend the ban but insisted it was "highly unlikely" the punishment would ever be meted out. The ban is currently scheduled to run until May 15. Also read | UN accuses Australia of violating human rights over India travel ban Monash University constitutional law professor Luke Beck predicted it would be difficult for the challenge to succeed, and even a temporary injunction is unlikely. "The Australian constitution doesn't set out very many rights that individuals have," he told AFP, adding that there is no explicit right to return home. The challenge may be trying to convince the court that the measures are disproportionate to the threat, but "judges tend to side with the government's public health expert", he said. "It's quite unlikely that this challenge will succeed."

Australian court to examine contentious India travel ban

Lebanon's farmers union described as 'arbitrary and unjust' the decision by Saudi Arabia to ban Lebanese produce from going through the kingdom over drug smuggling allegations, calling on Saturday for it be repealed.&nbsp;

The ban, ordered by the kingdom's Interior Ministry and due to take effect on Sunday, is a major blow to the Lebanese economy, already reeling from an unprecedented economic crisis.&nbsp;

It came after Saudi Arabia announced on Friday, it has seized over 5 million pills of an amphetamine drug known as Captagon, hidden in a shipment of pomegranate coming from Lebanon. The official Saudi Press Agency said four Saudis and one displaced it did not identify were arrested.&nbsp;

On Saturday, Lebanon's President Michel Aoun called for a meeting next week with Cabinet members, security officials, farmers and exporters to discuss the Saudi decision and its implications.&nbsp;

Lebanon's Foreign Ministry on Friday said smuggling of drugs is harmful to the country's reputation and economy. It called on Lebanese customs duty authorities to increase checks and inspections of shipments leaving the small Mediterranean country.&nbsp;

But in a statement on Sunday, Lebanon's Farmers Union called on the kingdom to repeal its decision. It said the mistake of one person or a criminal gang should not be the reason to punish the entire Lebanese people.&nbsp;

Agricultural exports are a major foreign currency earner for Lebanon. Arab countries are Lebanon's main export markets for agricultural products, accounting for nearly 80% of over $190 million of total exports in 2019, where Saudi Arabia had more than 20% of the share, followed by Qatar.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia's decision showed 'political maliciousness’, and contradicts the kingdom's claims that it protects Lebanon's interests, the statement added. The farmers union accused Saudi Arabia of participating in a policy to besiege Lebanon and change its alliance.&nbsp;

While Saudi Arabia has been a major Lebanon supporter, the kingdom has also been locked in a regional struggle with Iran, the main ally of the powerful Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. Tension between the two regional powerhouses have often spilled into a deadlock in decision-making in Lebanese politics. Saudi Arabia is among Gulf countries that imposed sanctions on Hezbollah.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, other officials denied the smuggling was done by Lebanese. The head of the farmers' union in eastern Lebanon's Bekaa valley said the pomegranate shipment was coming from Syria, passing transit through Lebanese port.&nbsp;

Lebanon's farmers union described as 'arbitrary and unjust' the decision by Saudi Arabia to ban Lebanese produce from going through the kingdom over drug smuggling allegations, calling on Saturday for it be repealed.

Lebanon's farmers union described as 'arbitrary and unjust' the decision by Saudi Arabia to ban Lebanese produce from going through the kingdom over drug smuggling allegations, calling on Saturday for it be repealed. The ban, ordered by the kingdom's Interior Ministry and due to take effect on Sunday, is a major blow to the Lebanese economy, already reeling from an unprecedented economic crisis. It came after Saudi Arabia announced on Friday, it has seized over 5 million pills of an amphetamine drug known as Captagon, hidden in a shipment of pomegranate coming from Lebanon. The official Saudi Press Agency said four Saudis and one displaced it did not identify were arrested. On Saturday, Lebanon's President Michel Aoun called for a meeting next week with Cabinet members, security officials, farmers and exporters to discuss the Saudi decision and its implications. Lebanon's Foreign Ministry on Friday said smuggling of drugs is harmful to the country's reputation and economy. It called on Lebanese customs duty authorities to increase checks and inspections of shipments leaving the small Mediterranean country. But in a statement on Sunday, Lebanon's Farmers Union called on the kingdom to repeal its decision. It said the mistake of one person or a criminal gang should not be the reason to punish the entire Lebanese people. Agricultural exports are a major foreign currency earner for Lebanon. Arab countries are Lebanon's main export markets for agricultural products, accounting for nearly 80% of over $190 million of total exports in 2019, where Saudi Arabia had more than 20% of the share, followed by Qatar. Saudi Arabia's decision showed 'political maliciousness’, and contradicts the kingdom's claims that it protects Lebanon's interests, the statement added. The farmers union accused Saudi Arabia of participating in a policy to besiege Lebanon and change its alliance. While Saudi Arabia has been a major Lebanon supporter, the kingdom has also been locked in a regional struggle with Iran, the main ally of the powerful Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. Tension between the two regional powerhouses have often spilled into a deadlock in decision-making in Lebanese politics. Saudi Arabia is among Gulf countries that imposed sanctions on Hezbollah. Meanwhile, other officials denied the smuggling was done by Lebanese. The head of the farmers' union in eastern Lebanon's Bekaa valley said the pomegranate shipment was coming from Syria, passing transit through Lebanese port.

Lebanon farmers union calls on Saudi to repeal produce ban 

GravitasPlus | As more and more governments ban the Hijab, the piece of clothing has become a political statement. It is imposed on many women & adopted by some as part of their identity. But does Islam mandate the hijab? Palki Sharma unveils the history, relevance & complexities.

Gravitas Plus: Women, Hijab & Choice

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen called on people to eat more pineapples to help farmers on Friday, saying Taiwan had been 'ambushed' by a ban on the fruit by neighbouring long-time rival China, which claims the island as its own.&nbsp;

China said on Friday that starting in March, it would suspend imports of pineapples from sub-tropical Taiwan, citing 'harmful creatures' it said could come with the fruit, threatening China's own agriculture.&nbsp;

The move prompted condemnation from Taiwan's ruling party and Tsai said in a Facebook post that the island's agricultural exports met international standards.&nbsp;

"China sent an ambush-like notice, unilaterally suspending the imports of Taiwan pineapples. This obviously was not a normal trade decision," Tsai wrote without elaboration.&nbsp;

"To support the farmers, let's eat pineapples all together!"&nbsp;

Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) said on top of ongoing 'military intimidation', Beijing is also using the import ban to exert economic pressure on Taiwan, which counts China among its top trading partners despite political tensions.&nbsp;

"This is not the first time China has used agricultural exports to other countries as political threats," the DPP said in a statement.&nbsp;

Beijing, which has never renounced the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, has carried out repeated air missions in the southwestern corner of Taiwan's air defence identification zone in recent months.&nbsp;

Taiwan's air force scrambled for a second straight day last weekend after a dozen Chinese fighter aircraft and bombers carried out drills close to Taiwan-controlled islands in the disputed South China Sea.&nbsp;

Taiwan exported about 46,000 metric tonnes of pineapples last year, and more than 90% of them were sold to China, the DPP said.&nbsp;

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen called on people to eat more pineapples to help farmers on Friday, saying Taiwan had been 'ambushed' by a ban on the fruit by neighbouring long-time rival China, which claims the island as its own.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen called on people to eat more pineapples to help farmers on Friday, saying Taiwan had been 'ambushed' by a ban on the fruit by neighbouring long-time rival China, which claims the island as its own. China said on Friday that starting in March, it would suspend imports of pineapples from sub-tropical Taiwan, citing 'harmful creatures' it said could come with the fruit, threatening China's own agriculture. The move prompted condemnation from Taiwan's ruling party and Tsai said in a Facebook post that the island's agricultural exports met international standards. "China sent an ambush-like notice, unilaterally suspending the imports of Taiwan pineapples. This obviously was not a normal trade decision," Tsai wrote without elaboration. "To support the farmers, let's eat pineapples all together!" Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) said on top of ongoing 'military intimidation', Beijing is also using the import ban to exert economic pressure on Taiwan, which counts China among its top trading partners despite political tensions. "This is not the first time China has used agricultural exports to other countries as political threats," the DPP said in a statement. Beijing, which has never renounced the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, has carried out repeated air missions in the southwestern corner of Taiwan's air defence identification zone in recent months. Taiwan's air force scrambled for a second straight day last weekend after a dozen Chinese fighter aircraft and bombers carried out drills close to Taiwan-controlled islands in the disputed South China Sea. Taiwan exported about 46,000 metric tonnes of pineapples last year, and more than 90% of them were sold to China, the DPP said.

Taiwan urges people to eat more ‘forbidden fruit’ pineapples after China ban 

German authorities carried out raids at several locations in Berlin and Brandenburg on Thursday after banning a Berlin Salafist Muslim group, police said.&nbsp;

Berlin's senate department for interior affairs on Thursday said it banned a 'jihad-salafist' association Jama'atu Berlin, also known as Tauhid Berlin, and that police had undertaken the raids, without giving further details.&nbsp;

German newspaper Tagesspiegel said the group glorified 'Islamic State' fighting on the internet and called for the killing of Jews, adding that criminal proceedings were pending against some of its members.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-court-sentences-is-recruiter-to-10-year-jail-for-planning-attack-366008">German court sentences IS recruiter to 10-year jail for planning attack</a>

The newspaper added that the group had contact with Anis Amri, a failed Tunisian asylum seeker with Islamist links, who hijacked a truck and drove it into a Christmas market in Berlin, killing 12 people in 2016.&nbsp;

Salafists - strict Sunni Muslims - include peaceful private people, activists seeking the implementation of Sharia law and militants advocating violence to establish states they might regard as representing true Islam.&nbsp;

The number of Salafists had risen in Germany to an all-time high of 12,150 in 2019, Germany's domestic intelligence said in its annual report last year, listing them among 'Islamist extremists'.&nbsp;

It said the number of Salafists had more than tripled since 2011 and that the Salafist scene in Germany was going through a consolidation stage, adding that followers were keeping a low profile in public.&nbsp;

German authorities carried out raids at several locations in Berlin and Brandenburg on Thursday after banning a Berlin Salafist Muslim group, police said. Berlin's senate department for interior affairs on Thursday said it banned a 'jihad-salafist' association Jama'atu Berlin, also known as Tauhid Berlin, and that police had undertaken the raids, without giving further details.

German authorities carried out raids at several locations in Berlin and Brandenburg on Thursday after banning a Berlin Salafist Muslim group, police said. Berlin's senate department for interior affairs on Thursday said it banned a 'jihad-salafist' association Jama'atu Berlin, also known as Tauhid Berlin, and that police had undertaken the raids, without giving further details. German newspaper Tagesspiegel said the group glorified 'Islamic State' fighting on the internet and called for the killing of Jews, adding that criminal proceedings were pending against some of its members. Also Read: German court sentences IS recruiter to 10-year jail for planning attack The newspaper added that the group had contact with Anis Amri, a failed Tunisian asylum seeker with Islamist links, who hijacked a truck and drove it into a Christmas market in Berlin, killing 12 people in 2016. Salafists - strict Sunni Muslims - include peaceful private people, activists seeking the implementation of Sharia law and militants advocating violence to establish states they might regard as representing true Islam. The number of Salafists had risen in Germany to an all-time high of 12,150 in 2019, Germany's domestic intelligence said in its annual report last year, listing them among 'Islamist extremists'. It said the number of Salafists had more than tripled since 2011 and that the Salafist scene in Germany was going through a consolidation stage, adding that followers were keeping a low profile in public.

Germany bans Salafist Muslim group, raids several locations

Australian tennis ace Nick Kyrgios trolled 17-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic by opening a Twitter poll on Monday asking how many years he would be banned if he had hit an official with a ball.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-top-seed-novak-djokovic-disqualified-from-us-open-after-hitting-judge-with-ball-325614" hreflang="en">Watch: Top-seed Novak Djokovic disqualified from US Open after hitting judge with ball</a>

The Aussie posted this poll after the Serbian was disqualified from the US Open for hitting a woman line judge in the throat with a ball bashed away in disgust after losing his serve.

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Swap me for jokers incident. ‘Accidentally hitting the ball kid in the throat’ how many years would I be banned for?
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios/status/1302724712871518208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Recently, Kyrgios lashed out at the World No 1 over his Adria Tour exhibition series where Djokovic along with several players contracted coronavirus.&nbsp;

Kyrgios himself has been hit with the 16-week ban last year for a series of on-court outbursts, jumped onto social media to ask his followers what would happen if he had hit the line judge.

"Swap me for jokers incident," he said, using Djokovic's nickname.&nbsp;

"'Accidentally hitting the ball kid in the throat.' How many years would I be banned for?" asked the Australian.

There were five options in the poll, 10 or 20 years with the poll attracting more than 60,000 answers in its first hour, with the majority voting for 20 years.

Most of the netizens took Kyrgios' tweet as a light-hearted dig at, while some were not impressed.&nbsp;

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It’s hilarious when it’s the mediocre players who always chime in.
— Al Dente (@dystopianbloke) <a href="https://twitter.com/dystopianbloke/status/1302786916912230401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Pathetic
— PK (@pekaaaj) <a href="https://twitter.com/pekaaaj/status/1302724756593160199?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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C’mon man, everyone knows hurting racquets is far worse than hurting people
— Matt Gambardella (@MGambardella13) <a href="https://twitter.com/MGambardella13/status/1302724889225441282?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Australian tennis ace Nick Kyrgios trolled 17-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic by opening a Twitter poll on Monday asking how many years he would be banned if he had hit an official with a ball.

Australian tennis ace Nick Kyrgios trolled 17-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic by opening a Twitter poll on Monday asking how many years he would be banned if he had hit an official with a ball. Also read: Watch: Top-seed Novak Djokovic disqualified from US Open after hitting judge with ball The Aussie posted this poll after the Serbian was disqualified from the US Open for hitting a woman line judge in the throat with a ball bashed away in disgust after losing his serve. Swap me for jokers incident. ‘Accidentally hitting the ball kid in the throat’ how many years would I be banned for? — Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) September 6, 2020 × Recently, Kyrgios lashed out at the World No 1 over his Adria Tour exhibition series where Djokovic along with several players contracted coronavirus. Kyrgios himself has been hit with the 16-week ban last year for a series of on-court outbursts, jumped onto social media to ask his followers what would happen if he had hit the line judge. "Swap me for jokers incident," he said, using Djokovic's nickname. "'Accidentally hitting the ball kid in the throat.' How many years would I be banned for?" asked the Australian. There were five options in the poll, 10 or 20 years with the poll attracting more than 60,000 answers in its first hour, with the majority voting for 20 years. Most of the netizens took Kyrgios' tweet as a light-hearted dig at, while some were not impressed. It’s hilarious when it’s the mediocre players who always chime in. — Al Dente (@dystopianbloke) September 7, 2020 × Pathetic — PK (@pekaaaj) September 6, 2020 × C’mon man, everyone knows hurting racquets is far worse than hurting people — Matt Gambardella (@MGambardella13) September 6, 2020 ×

'Swap me for jokers incident': Nick Kyrgios takes dig at Djokovic over US Open disqualification

Defense minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday came out with the list of 101 items that will not be imported from any other countries now onwards. The list includes several small and big items which now GOI feels that those can be manufactured by the domestic manufactures to fulfill the requirement of armed forces.

Minister said the embargo on imports would be progressively implemented between 2020 and 2024 and "Our aim is to apprise the Indian defence industry about the anticipated requirements of the armed forces so that they are better prepared to realize the goal of indigenization".

This step is being seen to boost the Domestic manufacturers and save crores of money which the country spent in purchasing arms and ammunition. India does share its borders with the nasty neighbors hence proper modernization of armed forces can't be ignored. Going the GOI data India's total this year's defense budget was 4,71,378 crore (US$ 66.9 billion) out of which more than 55% to 60% of its budget assigned is spent on its import which is close to US$ 47billion and rests 40% to 45% on items produced in-country.

Going by the Defense minister statement It is estimated that contracts worth almost Rs 4 lakh crore will be placed upon the domestic industry within the next 6 to 7 years and Of these, items worth almost Rs 1, 30,000 crore each are likely to be procured for the Army and the Air Force, while the figure for the Navy is almost Rs 1, 40,000 crore.

There is also a state of confusion in the domestic players as Items that are mentioned in the negative list of Defence Ministry show that many of the items are already manufactured in India and have not been imported for a long time including a number of naval vessels and systems. Therefore many manufactures are waiting for the final details to come out so that they can get the idea of how India’s new procurement process will work.

India defence import:

In the past five years, India became the world’s top-ranking purchaser of major arms by volume with its neighbour Pakistan ranking 11th. “As in previous years, in 2019 India and Pakistan—which are nuclear-armed states—attacked each other using an array of imported major arms,” said Siemon T. Wezeman, Senior Researcher at SIPRI.

70% of India’s arms purchases over the past five years were from Russia, which has traditionally been India’s top arms provider. Another 12% of India’s arms imports came from the United States and 7% from Israel.

The United States is pushing hard to make more sales to India.

India Defence export:

India has set its targets to export $5 billion worth of military hardware in next 5 years, which cannot be achieved unless the country becomes self-reliant in the defense manufacturing sector. Minister of State for Defence, Shripad Naik, in a written reply to Rajya Sabha in year February, informed that India exports defense pieces of equipment to 42 countries to those who are big names in the export market like the US, Australia, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, South Africa, and Sweden.

According to the Department of defence production, About 50 Indian companies in the private sector have contributed to defence exports. Some of the major export destinations for defence products have been Italy, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Russia, France, Nepal, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Israel, Egypt, UAE, Bhutan, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, Philippines, Poland, Spain and Chile etc.&nbsp;

India does Manufactures some of the big and small equipments which are already in service and are properly used by our armed forces. The major defence items being manufactured and exported are Personal Protective items, Offshore Patrol Vessels, ALH Helicopter, SU Avionics, Bharati Radio, Coastal Surveillance Systems, Kavach MoD II Launcher and FCS, Spares for Radar, Electronic System and Light Engineering Mechanical Parts etc

Going by the report released in April this year by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (Sipri) India was the third-biggest military spender in the world last year after the United States and China and second-biggest arms importer followed by Saudi Arabia.

The negative tag of the biggest arms importer can also be seen as misleading because no other country with such large military size imports in the way India does. United States, Russia, France, Germany and China are the largest arms exporter which have similar armed force.

Defense minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday came out with the list of 101 items that will not be imported from any other countries now onwards. The list includes several small and big items which now GOI feels that those can be manufactured by the domestic manufactures to fulfill the requirement of armed forces.

Defense minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday came out with the list of 101 items that will not be imported from any other countries now onwards. The list includes several small and big items which now GOI feels that those can be manufactured by the domestic manufactures to fulfill the requirement of armed forces. Minister said the embargo on imports would be progressively implemented between 2020 and 2024 and "Our aim is to apprise the Indian defence industry about the anticipated requirements of the armed forces so that they are better prepared to realize the goal of indigenization". This step is being seen to boost the Domestic manufacturers and save crores of money which the country spent in purchasing arms and ammunition. India does share its borders with the nasty neighbors hence proper modernization of armed forces can't be ignored. Going the GOI data India's total this year's defense budget was 4,71,378 crore (US$ 66.9 billion) out of which more than 55% to 60% of its budget assigned is spent on its import which is close to US$ 47billion and rests 40% to 45% on items produced in-country. Going by the Defense minister statement It is estimated that contracts worth almost Rs 4 lakh crore will be placed upon the domestic industry within the next 6 to 7 years and Of these, items worth almost Rs 1, 30,000 crore each are likely to be procured for the Army and the Air Force, while the figure for the Navy is almost Rs 1, 40,000 crore. There is also a state of confusion in the domestic players as Items that are mentioned in the negative list of Defence Ministry show that many of the items are already manufactured in India and have not been imported for a long time including a number of naval vessels and systems. Therefore many manufactures are waiting for the final details to come out so that they can get the idea of how India’s new procurement process will work. India defence import: In the past five years, India became the world’s top-ranking purchaser of major arms by volume with its neighbour Pakistan ranking 11th. “As in previous years, in 2019 India and Pakistan—which are nuclear-armed states—attacked each other using an array of imported major arms,” said Siemon T. Wezeman, Senior Researcher at SIPRI. 70% of India’s arms purchases over the past five years were from Russia, which has traditionally been India’s top arms provider. Another 12% of India’s arms imports came from the United States and 7% from Israel. The United States is pushing hard to make more sales to India. India Defence export: India has set its targets to export $5 billion worth of military hardware in next 5 years, which cannot be achieved unless the country becomes self-reliant in the defense manufacturing sector. Minister of State for Defence, Shripad Naik, in a written reply to Rajya Sabha in year February, informed that India exports defense pieces of equipment to 42 countries to those who are big names in the export market like the US, Australia, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, South Africa, and Sweden. According to the Department of defence production, About 50 Indian companies in the private sector have contributed to defence exports. Some of the major export destinations for defence products have been Italy, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Russia, France, Nepal, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Israel, Egypt, UAE, Bhutan, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, Philippines, Poland, Spain and Chile etc. India does Manufactures some of the big and small equipments which are already in service and are properly used by our armed forces. The major defence items being manufactured and exported are Personal Protective items, Offshore Patrol Vessels, ALH Helicopter, SU Avionics, Bharati Radio, Coastal Surveillance Systems, Kavach MoD II Launcher and FCS, Spares for Radar, Electronic System and Light Engineering Mechanical Parts etc Going by the report released in April this year by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (Sipri) India was the third-biggest military spender in the world last year after the United States and China and second-biggest arms importer followed by Saudi Arabia. The negative tag of the biggest arms importer can also be seen as misleading because no other country with such large military size imports in the way India does. United States, Russia, France, Germany and China are the largest arms exporter which have similar armed force.

Ban on import of 101 defence items a ray of hope for Indian manufacturers

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, has banned all kinds of public gathering till June end. The order was directed to the officials in a meeting chaired by the chief minister. The meeting followed the protocols of social distancing.

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मुख्यमंत्री श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/myogiadityanath?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@myogiadityanath</a> जी ने अपने सरकारी आवास, लखनऊ पर प्रदेश में <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> के संबंध में गठित समितियों के अध्यक्षों के साथ समीक्षा बैठक की। <a href="https://t.co/5CXOofcO0m">pic.twitter.com/5CXOofcO0m</a>
— CM Office, GoUP (@CMOfficeUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOfficeUP/status/1253938523696017410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The decision has been made to contain the spread of coronavirus, which has been rising rapidly in the state. Uttar Pradesh is one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus cases in the country. As of Saturday morning, total positive coronavirus cases in the state are 1,621, while 247 patients have recovered.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-health-officials-to-set-camp-in-worst-hit-15-districts-to-oversee-coronavirus-response-294296">Also read:&nbsp;UP health officials to set camp in worst-hit 15 districts to oversee coronavirus response</a>

He further instructed all the officials to make sure that the rules of lockdown are properly implemented and proper precautions are being taken.

The situation in Agra, one of the most affected cities in the state, has not shown any signs of improvement as the cases have been on a constant rise. A special team, sent to the city to read the situation, has blamed the local administration for late implementation of lockdown rules.

Following the rise in number is positive cases, he has also ordered the health officials to set up camp in the districts where there are more than 20 positive cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-adityanath-pulls-up-officials-in-gautam-buddh-nagar-hotspot-of-covid-19-cases-in-up-289508">Watch: Adityanath pulls up officials in Gautam Buddh Nagar, hotspot of COVID-19 cases in UP</a>

While the Yogi Adityanath&nbsp;issued a directive for the officials to implement the precautionary measures in a better way, videos of a group of 69 coronavirus patients seen waiting on a footpath took over the internet. The patients, who were being transferred from Agra to Etawah in a city bus, had to wait on the footpath outside the locked doors of a government medical college.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, has banned all kinds of public gathering till June end. The order was directed to the officials in a meeting chaired by the chief minister.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, has banned all kinds of public gathering till June end. The order was directed to the officials in a meeting chaired by the chief minister. The meeting followed the protocols of social distancing. मुख्यमंत्री श्री @myogiadityanath जी ने अपने सरकारी आवास, लखनऊ पर प्रदेश में #COVID19 के संबंध में गठित समितियों के अध्यक्षों के साथ समीक्षा बैठक की। pic.twitter.com/5CXOofcO0m — CM Office, GoUP (@CMOfficeUP) April 25, 2020 × The decision has been made to contain the spread of coronavirus, which has been rising rapidly in the state. Uttar Pradesh is one of the worst-hit states by coronavirus cases in the country. As of Saturday morning, total positive coronavirus cases in the state are 1,621, while 247 patients have recovered. Also read: UP health officials to set camp in worst-hit 15 districts to oversee coronavirus response He further instructed all the officials to make sure that the rules of lockdown are properly implemented and proper precautions are being taken. The situation in Agra, one of the most affected cities in the state, has not shown any signs of improvement as the cases have been on a constant rise. A special team, sent to the city to read the situation, has blamed the local administration for late implementation of lockdown rules. Following the rise in number is positive cases, he has also ordered the health officials to set up camp in the districts where there are more than 20 positive cases. Watch: Adityanath pulls up officials in Gautam Buddh Nagar, hotspot of COVID-19 cases in UP While the Yogi Adityanath issued a directive for the officials to implement the precautionary measures in a better way, videos of a group of 69 coronavirus patients seen waiting on a footpath took over the internet. The patients, who were being transferred from Agra to Etawah in a city bus, had to wait on the footpath outside the locked doors of a government medical college.

Yogi Adityanath bans all public gatherings in UP till June 30

Animal rights group PETA has offered 250,000 euros that is &nbsp;over Rs 2 crores to the Spanish city of Pamplona which hosts the world-famous bull racing festival.&nbsp;

This money was given to the city so that they ban the bull racing permanently but the money offered is puny as compared to the revenue the city makes due to the festival. An eight-day San Fermin fiesta fetches 74 million euros.&nbsp;

In a letter written by PETA, it said: "The Running of the Bulls and bullfights ... are a vestige of a far less enlightened time when people didn't understand that animals feel pain and thought nothing of risking fellow humans' safety." This letter was sent to the city mayor Enrique Maya and was accessed by Reuters.&nbsp;

The city officials have called off this year's week-long festival for the first time in four decades. This may be due to the coronavirus cases in the country.&nbsp;

PETA has voiced its protest against the festival that was made famous by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel 'The Sun Also Rises'. The animal rights group has always displayed visually striking protests on the eve of the infamous San Fermin.&nbsp;

Animal rights group PETA has offered 250,000 euros that is over Rs 2 crores to the Spanish city of Pamplona which hosts the world-famous bull racing festival. This money was given to the city so that they ban the bull racing permanently but the money offered is puny as compared to the revenue the city makes due to the festival.

Animal rights group PETA has offered 250,000 euros that is over Rs 2 crores to the Spanish city of Pamplona which hosts the world-famous bull racing festival. This money was given to the city so that they ban the bull racing permanently but the money offered is puny as compared to the revenue the city makes due to the festival. An eight-day San Fermin fiesta fetches 74 million euros. In a letter written by PETA, it said: "The Running of the Bulls and bullfights ... are a vestige of a far less enlightened time when people didn't understand that animals feel pain and thought nothing of risking fellow humans' safety." This letter was sent to the city mayor Enrique Maya and was accessed by Reuters. The city officials have called off this year's week-long festival for the first time in four decades. This may be due to the coronavirus cases in the country. PETA has voiced its protest against the festival that was made famous by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel 'The Sun Also Rises'. The animal rights group has always displayed visually striking protests on the eve of the infamous San Fermin.

PETA offers money to Spanish city to 'permanently' ban San Fermin festival

Pakistan's controversial batsman Umar Akmal has finally opened up about his spot-fixing allegations. Akmal was suspended by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) over the allegations on spot-fixing. This suspension came just days before the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

In a report, Umar Akmal has "denied" all the charges&nbsp;when questioned by the Anti-corruption Unit (ACU) officials. "The PCB has charged Umar Akmal with two breaches of the anti-corruption code which relates to not reporting a fixing offer," said a PCB press release.

The two breaches were from the Article 2.4.4 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code in two unrelated incidents. Article 2.4.4 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code reads as: "Failing to disclose to the PCB Vigilance and Security Department (without unnecessary delay) full details of any approaches or invitations received by the Participant to engage in Corrupt Conduct under this Anti-Corruption Code."

Umar had 14 days to respond to the charges in writing.

Umar has a history of disciplinary problems, having been arrested and detained for a day after a brawl with a traffic warden in 2014.&nbsp;

He was also banned for three months after a spat with then Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur in 2017.

Last month he escaped punishment after making rude remarks to a fitness trainer in Lahore

Pakistan's controversial batsman Umar Akmal has finally opened up about his spot-fixing allegations. Akmal was suspended by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) over the allegations on spot-fixing.

Pakistan's controversial batsman Umar Akmal has finally opened up about his spot-fixing allegations. Akmal was suspended by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) over the allegations on spot-fixing. This suspension came just days before the Pakistan Super League (PSL). In a report, Umar Akmal has "denied" all the charges when questioned by the Anti-corruption Unit (ACU) officials. "The PCB has charged Umar Akmal with two breaches of the anti-corruption code which relates to not reporting a fixing offer," said a PCB press release. The two breaches were from the Article 2.4.4 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code in two unrelated incidents. Article 2.4.4 of the PCB Anti-Corruption Code reads as: "Failing to disclose to the PCB Vigilance and Security Department (without unnecessary delay) full details of any approaches or invitations received by the Participant to engage in Corrupt Conduct under this Anti-Corruption Code." Umar had 14 days to respond to the charges in writing. Umar has a history of disciplinary problems, having been arrested and detained for a day after a brawl with a traffic warden in 2014. He was also banned for three months after a spat with then Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur in 2017. Last month he escaped punishment after making rude remarks to a fitness trainer in Lahore

Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal opens up about his spot-fixing allegations

4 March in history: Charlie Chaplin knighted, rebellion at Castle Hill and more

The Maldives has banned travellers arriving from China as a precautionary measure to combat the spread of coronavirus, the tourism minister of the Indian Ocean islands said on Monday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/latest-south-asia-news-india-rescues-7-maldivians-from-wuhan-under-neighbourhood-first-policy-278298">India rescues seven Maldivians from Wuhan under neighbourhood first policy</a>

More than 280,000 Chinese tourists visited the luxury holiday destination in 2019, government data show, the largest number from any country.

"Under the new measures being implemented, the government of Maldives will restrict entry ... of any person who has left or transited through mainland China effective from 3 February," Tourism Minister Ali Waheed told a news conference.

"Exceptions will be made in the case of Maldivian citizens."

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The flu-like virus has caused more than 425&nbsp;deaths in China since emerging late last year in the central city of Wuhan, where it is believed to have originated in a market illegally trading in wildlife.

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Seven Maldivians were evacuated from Wuhan on Sunday by close ally India, and are being held in quarantine along with Indian nationals, Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid said.

Direct flights between mainland China and the Maldives have been suspended, and there have been no confirmed cases of the virus in the archipelago.

The Maldives has banned travellers arriving from China as a precautionary measure to combat the spread of coronavirus, the tourism minister of the Indian Ocean islands said on Monday.

The Maldives has banned travellers arriving from China as a precautionary measure to combat the spread of coronavirus, the tourism minister of the Indian Ocean islands said on Monday. Also read: India rescues seven Maldivians from Wuhan under neighbourhood first policy More than 280,000 Chinese tourists visited the luxury holiday destination in 2019, government data show, the largest number from any country. "Under the new measures being implemented, the government of Maldives will restrict entry ... of any person who has left or transited through mainland China effective from 3 February," Tourism Minister Ali Waheed told a news conference. "Exceptions will be made in the case of Maldivian citizens." × The flu-like virus has caused more than 425 deaths in China since emerging late last year in the central city of Wuhan, where it is believed to have originated in a market illegally trading in wildlife. × Seven Maldivians were evacuated from Wuhan on Sunday by close ally India, and are being held in quarantine along with Indian nationals, Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid said. Direct flights between mainland China and the Maldives have been suspended, and there have been no confirmed cases of the virus in the archipelago.

Maldives bans travellers from China over virus fears

Nike's Vaporfly shoe has stirred a lot of controversy regarding its sole giving an edge to athletes in terms of energy efficiency. According to Nike, the shoes provide mind-boggling 4 per cent of energy efficiency to the contestants. Many experts accused the shoe of giving an "unfair advantage" to the runner.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vaporfly-nikes-shoes-worn-by-marathon-champions-at-risk-of-getting-banned-274923">Unfair advantage? Nike's 'Vaporfly' shoes worn by top runners risk ban</a>

Vaporfly is&nbsp;a common choice of shoes worn by marathon champions. According to The Guardian, World Athletics organization, which is the governing body for most of the international track and field event will not be imposing a ban on Vaporfly shoes.&nbsp;

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“I run to prove to any human in this universe that there are no limitations.” <a href="https://twitter.com/EliudKipchoge?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EliudKipchoge</a> 
 
A crazy dream come true — Eliud Kipchoge becomes the world’s first to run a marathon in under two hours. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/justdoit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#justdoit</a> <a href="https://t.co/12mVz1wbpd">pic.twitter.com/12mVz1wbpd</a>
— Nike (@Nike) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nike/status/1182955340670947329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The governing body formed a working group of athletes, scientists and legal experts to review the shoe and its technology. They have decided to hold the ban against the shoe, however, a temporary suspension has been placed for any fresh 'shoe technology' until the next summer Olympics which is held in Tokyo which springs on July 24. Companies will be likely to be asked to present their prototype shoes to the World Athletics committee for approval before they could be used in the competitions.

The governing body is&nbsp;yet to announce their official statement, the announcement is slated to take place on Friday.&nbsp;

Vaporfly's dominance in the athletic world is for the world to see, out of 36 positions in six world marathon majors, 31 position holders donned the Nike shoe in the year 2019.

Kenya's Eliud Kipchoge and Brigid Kosgei are one of the famous record-breaking marathon runners whose names surfaced when questions were raised regarding Vaporfly. These athletes wore the troubled Nike shoe during their record-breaking marathon.&nbsp;

Nike's Vaporfly shoe has stirred a lot of controversy regarding its sole giving an edge to athletes in terms of energy efficiency. According to Nike, the shoes provide mind-boggling 4 per cent of energy efficiency to the contestants.

Nike's Vaporfly shoe has stirred a lot of controversy regarding its sole giving an edge to athletes in terms of energy efficiency. According to Nike, the shoes provide mind-boggling 4 per cent of energy efficiency to the contestants. Many experts accused the shoe of giving an "unfair advantage" to the runner. Also read: Unfair advantage? Nike's 'Vaporfly' shoes worn by top runners risk ban Vaporfly is a common choice of shoes worn by marathon champions. According to The Guardian, World Athletics organization, which is the governing body for most of the international track and field event will not be imposing a ban on Vaporfly shoes. “I run to prove to any human in this universe that there are no limitations.” @EliudKipchoge A crazy dream come true — Eliud Kipchoge becomes the world’s first to run a marathon in under two hours. #justdoit pic.twitter.com/12mVz1wbpd — Nike (@Nike) October 12, 2019 × The governing body formed a working group of athletes, scientists and legal experts to review the shoe and its technology. They have decided to hold the ban against the shoe, however, a temporary suspension has been placed for any fresh 'shoe technology' until the next summer Olympics which is held in Tokyo which springs on July 24. Companies will be likely to be asked to present their prototype shoes to the World Athletics committee for approval before they could be used in the competitions. The governing body is yet to announce their official statement, the announcement is slated to take place on Friday. Vaporfly's dominance in the athletic world is for the world to see, out of 36 positions in six world marathon majors, 31 position holders donned the Nike shoe in the year 2019. Kenya's Eliud Kipchoge and Brigid Kosgei are one of the famous record-breaking marathon runners whose names surfaced when questions were raised regarding Vaporfly. These athletes wore the troubled Nike shoe during their record-breaking marathon.

Nike's controversial Vapor Fly to evade ban, rules on running shoes to be stringent

Nike's Vaporfly shoes are making headlines for all wrong reasons for its "unfair technology"&nbsp;that supports athletes during sprints.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nike-shuts-down-oregon-project-after-coach-salazar-banned-255212">Nike shuts down Oregon Project after coach Alberto Salazar banned</a>

Nike said&nbsp;on its website that the shoe, which retails at around $250, has "a built-in secret weapon".

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quitters-day-study-reveals-people-are-likely-to-give-up-on-their-new-year-resolutions-on-january-19-274753">Quitter's day! Study reveals people are likely to give up on their New Year resolutions on January 19</a>

Analysts say the debate over Nike's "Vaporfly"&nbsp;shoes gives runners an unfair technological advantage and mainly helps the world's largest athletic apparel company sell more shoes.

Independent studies have concluded that the shoes, which has&nbsp;a curved, carbon-fibre plate embedded in a thick layer of lightweight foam, improves metabolic efficiency by 4 per cent, though that does not necessarily mean a runner will be 4 per cent faster.

Nike's shoe has a 1.4-inch sole, higher the sole more the efficiency, whereas other shoes have a sole thickness of 1 inch.

A working group at governing body world athletics has been examining for months on what to do about the hyper-advanced footwear, used by elite runners including Kenya's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../kenyas-kipchoge-becomes-first-ever-to-run- marathon-in-under-two-hours-255461">Eliud Kipchoge</a> and Brigid Kosgei who gave stunning performances last year.

World Athletics' current rules say running shoes can't provide any "unfair assistance or advantage"&nbsp;and they should be available for all.

Laurues Award nominee Eliud Kipchoge broke the record in the Berlin Marathon in 2018. He wore the Vaporfly prototype.&nbsp;

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“I run to prove to any human in this universe that there are no limitations.” <a href="https://twitter.com/EliudKipchoge?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EliudKipchoge</a> 
 
A crazy dream come true — Eliud Kipchoge becomes the world’s first to run a marathon in under two hours. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/justdoit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#justdoit</a> <a href="https://t.co/12mVz1wbpd">pic.twitter.com/12mVz1wbpd</a>
— Nike (@Nike) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nike/status/1182955340670947329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../kenyas-brigid-kosgei-breaks-womens-half- marathon-world-record-248454">Brigid Kosgei</a> beat the previous record by just 81 seconds in 2019. She ran in the Chicago marathon. She was clocked at 2 hours, 14 minutes and 4 seconds. She wore the infamous Vaporfly.

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If it hasn’t been done before, it’s yours to claim. 
 
Brigid Kosgei becomes the fastest woman in history to run 26.2 miles with a time of 2:14:04. Congrats on your World Record and second consecutive victory at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/justdoit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#justdoit</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/chicagomarathon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#chicagomarathon</a> <a href="https://t.co/7wQYJvCRWx">pic.twitter.com/7wQYJvCRWx</a>
— Nike (@Nike) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nike/status/1183433710881792000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Shares in the Oregon-based firm were up 0.5 per cent, while those in rivals Under Armor and Skechers USA gained about 1.5 per cent. Japan's Asics corp. earlier closed up 2.5 per cent.

Nike's Vaporfly shoes are making headlines for all wrong reasons for its "unfair technology" that supports athletes during sprints. Also read- Nike shuts down Oregon Project after coach Alberto Salazar banned Nike said on its website that the shoe, which retails at around $250, has "a built-in secret weapon".

Nike's Vaporfly shoes are making headlines for all wrong reasons for its "unfair technology" that supports athletes during sprints. Also read- Nike shuts down Oregon Project after coach Alberto Salazar banned Nike said on its website that the shoe, which retails at around $250, has "a built-in secret weapon". Also read- Quitter's day! Study reveals people are likely to give up on their New Year resolutions on January 19 Analysts say the debate over Nike's "Vaporfly" shoes gives runners an unfair technological advantage and mainly helps the world's largest athletic apparel company sell more shoes. Independent studies have concluded that the shoes, which has a curved, carbon-fibre plate embedded in a thick layer of lightweight foam, improves metabolic efficiency by 4 per cent, though that does not necessarily mean a runner will be 4 per cent faster. Nike's shoe has a 1.4-inch sole, higher the sole more the efficiency, whereas other shoes have a sole thickness of 1 inch. A working group at governing body world athletics has been examining for months on what to do about the hyper-advanced footwear, used by elite runners including Kenya's Eliud Kipchoge and Brigid Kosgei who gave stunning performances last year. World Athletics' current rules say running shoes can't provide any "unfair assistance or advantage" and they should be available for all. Laurues Award nominee Eliud Kipchoge broke the record in the Berlin Marathon in 2018. He wore the Vaporfly prototype. “I run to prove to any human in this universe that there are no limitations.” @EliudKipchoge A crazy dream come true — Eliud Kipchoge becomes the world’s first to run a marathon in under two hours. #justdoit pic.twitter.com/12mVz1wbpd — Nike (@Nike) October 12, 2019 × Brigid Kosgei beat the previous record by just 81 seconds in 2019. She ran in the Chicago marathon. She was clocked at 2 hours, 14 minutes and 4 seconds. She wore the infamous Vaporfly. If it hasn’t been done before, it’s yours to claim. Brigid Kosgei becomes the fastest woman in history to run 26.2 miles with a time of 2:14:04. Congrats on your World Record and second consecutive victory at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. #justdoit #chicagomarathon pic.twitter.com/7wQYJvCRWx — Nike (@Nike) October 13, 2019 × Shares in the Oregon-based firm were up 0.5 per cent, while those in rivals Under Armor and Skechers USA gained about 1.5 per cent. Japan's Asics corp. earlier closed up 2.5 per cent.

Unfair advantage? Nike's 'Vaporfly' shoes worn by top runners risk ban

Christians in the <a href="Israel tightly restricts movements out of the Gaza Strip, territory controlled by Hamas, an Islamist group that it considers a terrorist organization.">Gaza Strip</a> will be allowed to visit holy cities such as Bethlehem and Jerusalem at Christmas, Israel authorities said on Sunday, reversing a decision not to issue them permits.

In a break from its usual Christmas holiday policy, Israel's military liaison to the Palestinians said on December&nbsp;12 that in accordance with "security orders" Gaza Christians would be allowed to travel abroad but none would be permitted to go Israel or the occupied West Bank.

On Sunday, the liaison office, known as COGAT, announced on Twitter that its director has "extended the travel facilitation for the Christian population of Gaza for the Christmas holiday".

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COGAT Maj. Gen. Kamil Abu Rukun has extended the travel facilitations for the Christian population of Gaza in recognition of the Christmas holiday. Entry permits for Jerusalem and for the West Bank will be issued in accordance with security assessments and without regard to age. <a href="https://t.co/obqJlAoTq1">pic.twitter.com/obqJlAoTq1</a>
— COGAT (@cogatonline) <a href="https://twitter.com/cogatonline/status/1208825212189446144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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As a result, COGAT said, "entry permits for Jerusalem and for the West Bank will be issued in accordance with security assessments and without regard to age."

Gaza has only around 1,000 Christians, most of them Greek Orthodox, in a population of 2 million in the narrow coastal strip.

Last year, Israel granted permits for close to 700 Gaza Christians to travel to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth and other holy cities that draw thousands of pilgrims each holiday season.

Christian leaders in Jerusalem had condemned the initial entry ban and said they would appeal to Israeli authorities to lift it.

Christians in the Gaza Strip will be allowed to visit holy cities such as Bethlehem and Jerusalem at Christmas, Israel authorities said on Sunday, reversing a decision not to issue them permits.

Christians in the Gaza Strip will be allowed to visit holy cities such as Bethlehem and Jerusalem at Christmas, Israel authorities said on Sunday, reversing a decision not to issue them permits. In a break from its usual Christmas holiday policy, Israel's military liaison to the Palestinians said on December 12 that in accordance with "security orders" Gaza Christians would be allowed to travel abroad but none would be permitted to go Israel or the occupied West Bank. On Sunday, the liaison office, known as COGAT, announced on Twitter that its director has "extended the travel facilitation for the Christian population of Gaza for the Christmas holiday". COGAT Maj. Gen. Kamil Abu Rukun has extended the travel facilitations for the Christian population of Gaza in recognition of the Christmas holiday. Entry permits for Jerusalem and for the West Bank will be issued in accordance with security assessments and without regard to age. pic.twitter.com/obqJlAoTq1 — COGAT (@cogatonline) December 22, 2019 × As a result, COGAT said, "entry permits for Jerusalem and for the West Bank will be issued in accordance with security assessments and without regard to age." Gaza has only around 1,000 Christians, most of them Greek Orthodox, in a population of 2 million in the narrow coastal strip. Last year, Israel granted permits for close to 700 Gaza Christians to travel to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth and other holy cities that draw thousands of pilgrims each holiday season. Christian leaders in Jerusalem had condemned the initial entry ban and said they would appeal to Israeli authorities to lift it.

Israel allows Christians in Gaza to visit Christmas sites

Russia reeled from a four-year ban from global sports on Monday, with athletes in shock and the government quick to blame "anti-Russian hysteria".

The head of Russia's anti-doping agency meanwhile said his country had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-chance-of-winning-wada-ban-appeal-russia-anti-doping-chief-267261">"no chance"</a> of winning an appeal of the ban, which he described as a tragedy for clean athletes.

The World Anti-Doping Agency on Monday banned Russia from international competitions including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

It accused Russia of falsifying laboratory doping data handed over earlier this year to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/russia-could-face-olympic-ban-in-wada-decision-due-monday-266958">investigators probing claims</a> of widespread doping.

Russia can appeal the ban to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, but the head of its RUSADA anti-doping agency, Yuri Ganus, said he doubted it would be successful.

"There is no chance of winning this case in court," Ganus told AFP. "This is a tragedy. Clean athletes are seeing their rights limited."

Under the sanctions, Russian sportsmen and women will still be allowed to compete at the Olympics next year but only if they can demonstrate that they were not part of what WADA believes was a state-sponsored system of doping.

Russian government officials will be barred from attending any major events, while the country will lose the right to host, or even bid, for tournaments.

'This is politics'

While admitting there have been instances of doping, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wada-seeks-russia-ban-over-doping-data-manipulation-264626">Russian officials</a> say the country is no worse than any other. Some have accused other countries of pursuing the ban to remove Russian athletes from competition.

Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said Monday that it was "impossible to deny" that doping had taken place but that those involved had already been punished.

"This is the continuation of this anti-Russian hysteria that has already become chronic," Medvedev told Russian news agencies.&nbsp;

Many in Russian sports agreed.&nbsp;

"The decision that was taken today was political and not simply about sports," the head of Russia's Biathlon Union, Vladimir Drachev, told Russia-24 state television.&nbsp;

"I have no words... How can you mock athletes who have been preparing all their lives for this?" said Aslanbek Khushtov, who won wrestling gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

"Unfortunately this is politics, I don't smell any sport here," he told state news agency TASS.

The scandal has tainted Russia's sporting reputation since the revelation of large-scale state-sponsored doping aimed at improving its medal performance at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi.

Russian track and field athletes were barred from competing at the 2016 Rio Olympics although Russians competing in other events were allowed to take part.

The ban was widened to include all events at the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, though Russian competitors who could prove they were above suspicion were able to compete as neutrals under the Olympic flag.

The heads of several Russian sports federations said Monday they were preparing to send athletes to the 2020 Olympics under a neutral flag.

'A proud Russian'

The country's athletes "must go to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wada-imposes-four-year-ban-on-russia-over-doping-data-manipulation-267195">the Olympics</a> whatever the situation," said the head of Russia's swimming federation, Vladimir Salnikov.

"Of course we'd prefer that our athletes participate under the Russian flag and hear their national anthem. But the circumstances may be different... (and) no one has the right to deprive innocent athletes of their dreams," he told state news agency RIA Novosti.

"If (participating under a neutral flag) is the only possibility, we must go and win. Our clean athletes, I am sure, will show that they are strong, even in these circumstances," said the head of the waterpolo, diving and synchronised swimming federation, Alexei Vlasenko.

Vyacheslav Fetisov, a Soviet-era ice hockey legend and now pro-government lawmaker, denounced what he called the "collective punishment" of Russia's athletes.

"I am a proud Russian. I was proud to represent my country," Fetisov, deputy chairman of the lower house State Duma's sports committee, told AFP.&nbsp;

"I will work tirelessly... to get today's athletes the opportunity I had to represent Russia,&nbsp;and be up on that podium. It was one of the great privileges of my life."

Russia reeled from a four-year ban from global sports on Monday, with athletes in shock and the government quick to blame "anti-Russian hysteria". The head of Russia's anti-doping agency meanwhile said his country had "no chance" of winning an appeal of the ban, which he described as a tragedy for clean athletes.

Russia reeled from a four-year ban from global sports on Monday, with athletes in shock and the government quick to blame "anti-Russian hysteria". The head of Russia's anti-doping agency meanwhile said his country had "no chance" of winning an appeal of the ban, which he described as a tragedy for clean athletes. The World Anti-Doping Agency on Monday banned Russia from international competitions including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. It accused Russia of falsifying laboratory doping data handed over earlier this year to investigators probing claims of widespread doping. Russia can appeal the ban to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, but the head of its RUSADA anti-doping agency, Yuri Ganus, said he doubted it would be successful. "There is no chance of winning this case in court," Ganus told AFP. "This is a tragedy. Clean athletes are seeing their rights limited." Under the sanctions, Russian sportsmen and women will still be allowed to compete at the Olympics next year but only if they can demonstrate that they were not part of what WADA believes was a state-sponsored system of doping. Russian government officials will be barred from attending any major events, while the country will lose the right to host, or even bid, for tournaments. 'This is politics' While admitting there have been instances of doping, Russian officials say the country is no worse than any other. Some have accused other countries of pursuing the ban to remove Russian athletes from competition. Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said Monday that it was "impossible to deny" that doping had taken place but that those involved had already been punished. "This is the continuation of this anti-Russian hysteria that has already become chronic," Medvedev told Russian news agencies. Many in Russian sports agreed. "The decision that was taken today was political and not simply about sports," the head of Russia's Biathlon Union, Vladimir Drachev, told Russia-24 state television. "I have no words... How can you mock athletes who have been preparing all their lives for this?" said Aslanbek Khushtov, who won wrestling gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. "Unfortunately this is politics, I don't smell any sport here," he told state news agency TASS. The scandal has tainted Russia's sporting reputation since the revelation of large-scale state-sponsored doping aimed at improving its medal performance at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. Russian track and field athletes were barred from competing at the 2016 Rio Olympics although Russians competing in other events were allowed to take part. The ban was widened to include all events at the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, though Russian competitors who could prove they were above suspicion were able to compete as neutrals under the Olympic flag. The heads of several Russian sports federations said Monday they were preparing to send athletes to the 2020 Olympics under a neutral flag. 'A proud Russian' The country's athletes "must go to the Olympics whatever the situation," said the head of Russia's swimming federation, Vladimir Salnikov. "Of course we'd prefer that our athletes participate under the Russian flag and hear their national anthem. But the circumstances may be different... (and) no one has the right to deprive innocent athletes of their dreams," he told state news agency RIA Novosti. "If (participating under a neutral flag) is the only possibility, we must go and win. Our clean athletes, I am sure, will show that they are strong, even in these circumstances," said the head of the waterpolo, diving and synchronised swimming federation, Alexei Vlasenko. Vyacheslav Fetisov, a Soviet-era ice hockey legend and now pro-government lawmaker, denounced what he called the "collective punishment" of Russia's athletes. "I am a proud Russian. I was proud to represent my country," Fetisov, deputy chairman of the lower house State Duma's sports committee, told AFP. "I will work tirelessly... to get today's athletes the opportunity I had to represent Russia, and be up on that podium. It was one of the great privileges of my life."

'Anti-Russian hysteria': Moscow on doping ban

Austria's government said Monday it would not implement a ban on the controversial herbicide glyphosate, despite MPs having voted for it to come into effect on January 1.

In a letter to the speaker of parliament, Chancellor Brigitte Bierlein said the European Commission had not been given the necessary notification about the measure and it therefore could not enter into force.

"I want to stress that this is purely a formal legal decision and not about assessing the content of the proposal," Bierlein said, adding that the government had sought legal advice before taking the decision.

Austria would have been the first EU country to enforce a ban on the herbicide after lawmakers approved the measure in July.

Glyphosate is classified as "probably carcinogenic" by the World Health Organisation (WHO), but the EU in December 2017 renewed the weedkiller's licence across Europe for five years.

Its use has sparked debate in several European countries, not least with regard to how it could be replaced given its heavy use in the farming sector.&nbsp;

Although Brussels itself had not attempted to prevent the ban, the government said the European Commission "had indicated the possibility of infringement proceedings" against Austria for not following the proper procedure.

Campaign group Greenpeace reacted furiously to the government's decision, calling it a "betrayal of democracy" and accusing the government of using "legal excuses".

July's vote in parliament took the government by surprise as it had not proposed the legislation.

It passed thanks to a temporary alliance of all parties in parliament except for the centre-right People's Party (OeVP).

The current interim government will remain in place until a new coalition emerges from the results of snap elections held in September.

The OeVP, led by ex-chancellor Sebastian Kurz, finished as by far the single largest party in the poll.

The OeVP is now in coalition talks with the other big winner of September's poll, the Greens, who support the glyphosate ban.

Austria's government said Monday it would not implement a ban on the controversial herbicide glyphosate, despite MPs having voted for it to come into effect on January 1.

Austria's government said Monday it would not implement a ban on the controversial herbicide glyphosate, despite MPs having voted for it to come into effect on January 1. In a letter to the speaker of parliament, Chancellor Brigitte Bierlein said the European Commission had not been given the necessary notification about the measure and it therefore could not enter into force. "I want to stress that this is purely a formal legal decision and not about assessing the content of the proposal," Bierlein said, adding that the government had sought legal advice before taking the decision. Austria would have been the first EU country to enforce a ban on the herbicide after lawmakers approved the measure in July. Glyphosate is classified as "probably carcinogenic" by the World Health Organisation (WHO), but the EU in December 2017 renewed the weedkiller's licence across Europe for five years. Its use has sparked debate in several European countries, not least with regard to how it could be replaced given its heavy use in the farming sector. Although Brussels itself had not attempted to prevent the ban, the government said the European Commission "had indicated the possibility of infringement proceedings" against Austria for not following the proper procedure. Campaign group Greenpeace reacted furiously to the government's decision, calling it a "betrayal of democracy" and accusing the government of using "legal excuses". July's vote in parliament took the government by surprise as it had not proposed the legislation. It passed thanks to a temporary alliance of all parties in parliament except for the centre-right People's Party (OeVP). The current interim government will remain in place until a new coalition emerges from the results of snap elections held in September. The OeVP, led by ex-chancellor Sebastian Kurz, finished as by far the single largest party in the poll. The OeVP is now in coalition talks with the other big winner of September's poll, the Greens, who support the glyphosate ban.

Austria: Government declines to implement glyphosate ban for 2020

Snap on Monday confirmed that it checks political ads at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-servers-cause-problems-for-youtube-snapchat-in-us-223726">Snapchat</a> to make sure they are not deceptive or misleading and thus enforce its ban on such material.

The strategy seems to be a middle ground between Facebook's controversial tolerance of proven lies in political ads and Twitter's decision to ban them altogether.

"We subject all advertising to review, including political advertising," Snap chief executive Evan Spiegel said in a story published by CNBC.

"And I think what we try to do is create a place for political ads on our platform, especially because we reach so many young people and first-time voters we want them to be able to engage with the political conversation, but we don't allow things like misinformation to appear in that advertising."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/snap-adds-games-to-snapchat-app-to-hold-on-to-young-users-208064">Snap policies</a> prohibit political ads that are deceptive or misleading, with an in-house team reviewing such paid messages to make sure they don't break the rules.

Twitter last week said its ban on political ads will exempt "caused-based" messages on topics related to social or environmental issues.

The San Francisco-based messaging platform plans to bar all paid political messages starting November 22, while addressing concerns expressed by activists for social causes.

"Ads that educate, raise awareness, and/or call for people to take action in connection with civic engagement, economic growth, environmental stewardship, or social equity causes are allowed," Twitter said in its new policy.

"However, they may not reference prohibited political advertisers or political content."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-tightens-bans-on-political-ads-and-causes-ahead-of-2020-us-election-262497">Twitter announced the political ad ban</a> on October 30, saying the move was aimed at countering the spread of misinformation by politicians.

The political ban has drawn mixed reactions: some argue it puts pressure on Facebook to follow suit or take other steps to curb the spread of misinformation from politicians; others say a ban will be difficult to enforce.

Social media platforms have been challenged by President Donald Trump's campaign and its use of ads that contain claims which critics say have been debunked by independent fact-checkers.

Some analysts point out that the ban will not affect "organic" content or messages from politicians that are shared or retweeted by supporters, and that it could encourage the use of "bots" or paid users to amplify the tweets.

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has said political advertising is not a major source of revenue but adds that he believes it is important to allow everyone a "voice," and that banning political ads would favour incumbents.

Snap on Monday confirmed that it checks political ads at Snapchat to make sure they are not deceptive or misleading and thus enforce its ban on such material. The strategy seems to be a middle ground between Facebook's controversial tolerance of proven lies in political ads and Twitter's decision to ban them altogether.

Snap on Monday confirmed that it checks political ads at Snapchat to make sure they are not deceptive or misleading and thus enforce its ban on such material. The strategy seems to be a middle ground between Facebook's controversial tolerance of proven lies in political ads and Twitter's decision to ban them altogether. "We subject all advertising to review, including political advertising," Snap chief executive Evan Spiegel said in a story published by CNBC. "And I think what we try to do is create a place for political ads on our platform, especially because we reach so many young people and first-time voters we want them to be able to engage with the political conversation, but we don't allow things like misinformation to appear in that advertising." Snap policies prohibit political ads that are deceptive or misleading, with an in-house team reviewing such paid messages to make sure they don't break the rules. Twitter last week said its ban on political ads will exempt "caused-based" messages on topics related to social or environmental issues. The San Francisco-based messaging platform plans to bar all paid political messages starting November 22, while addressing concerns expressed by activists for social causes. "Ads that educate, raise awareness, and/or call for people to take action in connection with civic engagement, economic growth, environmental stewardship, or social equity causes are allowed," Twitter said in its new policy. "However, they may not reference prohibited political advertisers or political content." Twitter announced the political ad ban on October 30, saying the move was aimed at countering the spread of misinformation by politicians. The political ban has drawn mixed reactions: some argue it puts pressure on Facebook to follow suit or take other steps to curb the spread of misinformation from politicians; others say a ban will be difficult to enforce. Social media platforms have been challenged by President Donald Trump's campaign and its use of ads that contain claims which critics say have been debunked by independent fact-checkers. Some analysts point out that the ban will not affect "organic" content or messages from politicians that are shared or retweeted by supporters, and that it could encourage the use of "bots" or paid users to amplify the tweets. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has said political advertising is not a major source of revenue but adds that he believes it is important to allow everyone a "voice," and that banning political ads would favour incumbents.

Snapchat checks for misleading political advertisements to enforce ban

Former Australia captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../cricket-steve-smith-fires-australia-to-victory- over-pakistan-in-t20-match-260229">Steve Smith</a>, who was banned for a year for ball-tampering, says he does not feel hard done by despite a much lighter sanction handed down to West Indies batsman<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../west-indies-nicholas-pooran-faces-four-match- suspension-for-ball-tampering-261813"> Nicholas Pooran</a> for the same offence.

Pooran was given a four-game ban during the third one-day international against Afghanistan, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../katy-perry-plans-record-breaking-show-at- womens-t20-final-261761">the International Cricket Council</a> (ICC) said last week.

Smith was initially banned for a test by the ICC after admitting that Australia had tried to alter the condition of the ball during the Newlands test against South Africa in March 2018.

But governing body Cricket Australia subsequently banned him for 12 months along with team mate David Warner, and stripped both of their leadership roles.

Opening batsman Cameron Bancroft, the third player involved at Cape Town, received a nine-month suspension.

"Everyone is different, every board is different, and the way they deal with certain issues,” Smith, who remains barred from leadership roles until March 2020, told reporters in Brisbane on Monday.

"For me, I copped it on the chin ... it is what it is.

"I don’t feel hard done by. It was a long time ago now. I’ve moved past it and I’m focusing on the present."

Smith's ban from international and domestic cricket expired in March and he was rushed back into the Australia squad for the one-day World Cup in England.

He also played a starring role with the bat in Australia's retention of the Ashes in England in September.

Smith played with 24-year old Pooran at Barbados in the Caribbean Premier League last year while serving his ban, the terms of which allowed the Australian to play in non-international competitions overseas.

"I know Nicholas, I’ve played a bit of cricket with him and he’s a talented player and someone with a bright future," Smith said of wicketkeeper-batsman Pooran, who has played 16 one-day internationals and 14 Twenty20 internationals.

"I think he’ll learn from his mistake and move past it ... I think he’s going to be an exceptional player in white-ball cricket."

Smith was fined 25 percent of his match fee for a code of conduct violation after showing dissent with the umpire's decision when he was given out caught behind when batting for New South Wales against Western Australia last week in a Sheffield Shield game.

The master batsman subsequently apologised to his team mates for setting a poor example.

"Of course, I’ll still make mistakes, I’m a human being, we all do," he said on Monday.

"But being able to catch yourself and the way you’re thinking is something I’ve learnt and something I’ll continue to work on and continue and get better at."

Former Australia captain Steve Smith, who was banned for a year for ball-tampering, says he does not feel hard done by despite a much lighter sanction handed down to West Indies batsman Nicholas Pooran for the same offence.

Former Australia captain Steve Smith, who was banned for a year for ball-tampering, says he does not feel hard done by despite a much lighter sanction handed down to West Indies batsman Nicholas Pooran for the same offence. Pooran was given a four-game ban during the third one-day international against Afghanistan, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said last week. Smith was initially banned for a test by the ICC after admitting that Australia had tried to alter the condition of the ball during the Newlands test against South Africa in March 2018. But governing body Cricket Australia subsequently banned him for 12 months along with team mate David Warner, and stripped both of their leadership roles. Opening batsman Cameron Bancroft, the third player involved at Cape Town, received a nine-month suspension. "Everyone is different, every board is different, and the way they deal with certain issues,” Smith, who remains barred from leadership roles until March 2020, told reporters in Brisbane on Monday. "For me, I copped it on the chin ... it is what it is. "I don’t feel hard done by. It was a long time ago now. I’ve moved past it and I’m focusing on the present." Smith's ban from international and domestic cricket expired in March and he was rushed back into the Australia squad for the one-day World Cup in England. He also played a starring role with the bat in Australia's retention of the Ashes in England in September. Smith played with 24-year old Pooran at Barbados in the Caribbean Premier League last year while serving his ban, the terms of which allowed the Australian to play in non-international competitions overseas. "I know Nicholas, I’ve played a bit of cricket with him and he’s a talented player and someone with a bright future," Smith said of wicketkeeper-batsman Pooran, who has played 16 one-day internationals and 14 Twenty20 internationals. "I think he’ll learn from his mistake and move past it ... I think he’s going to be an exceptional player in white-ball cricket." Smith was fined 25 percent of his match fee for a code of conduct violation after showing dissent with the umpire's decision when he was given out caught behind when batting for New South Wales against Western Australia last week in a Sheffield Shield game. The master batsman subsequently apologised to his team mates for setting a poor example. "Of course, I’ll still make mistakes, I’m a human being, we all do," he said on Monday. "But being able to catch yourself and the way you’re thinking is something I’ve learnt and something I’ll continue to work on and continue and get better at."

Steve Smith shrugs off Nicholas Pooran's light ball-tampering ban

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../james-pattinson-banned-for-first-test-against- pakistan-for-personal-abuse-262662">Cricket Australia</a> (CA) on Monday handed a one-year ban to Hobart Hurricanes player Emily Smith for breaching their<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../do-we-work-in-this-or-i-wait-till-the-ipl-bookie- deepak-aggarwal-asked-shakib-al-hasan-258806"> Anti-Corruption Code</a>.

Smith will be ineligible to participate in any form of cricket for a period of one year, with nine months being fully suspended. This effectively means that Smith is ineligible for a period of three months.

She had posted her team's line-up to her Instagram account approximately an hour before the official scheduled release on November 2. However, CA's Anti-Corruption Code prohibits a player to disclose any inside information.

Smith has also been ruled out from the remaining Women Big Bash League. Cricket Australia's Head of Integrity and Security, Sean Carroll, said that there is no excuse for breaches regardless of the reasons for information being disclosed.

"Whilst Cricket Australia acknowledges that at the time of posting the team line-up there was no intent to breach the Anti-Corruption Code, CA's rigorous anti-corruption player education program means that players are well aware of their obligations under the Anti-Corruption Code and there is no excuse for breaches regardless of the reasons for information being disclosed," Carroll said in a statement.

"Since the commencement of the WBBL, Cricket Australia has had in place a robust anti-corruption program," Carroll continued. "We have been working with Emily throughout the process and Emily now understands the mistake she made. Unfortunately, in this instance Emily's actions breached the Anti-Corruption Code. We hope this serves as reminder to all that the Anti-Corruption Code is critical to protecting the integrity of the game," Carroll added.

Cricket Australia (CA) on Monday handed a one-year ban to Hobart Hurricanes player Emily Smith for breaching their Anti-Corruption Code. Smith will be ineligible to participate in any form of cricket for a period of one year, with nine months being fully suspended.

Cricket Australia (CA) on Monday handed a one-year ban to Hobart Hurricanes player Emily Smith for breaching their Anti-Corruption Code. Smith will be ineligible to participate in any form of cricket for a period of one year, with nine months being fully suspended. This effectively means that Smith is ineligible for a period of three months. She had posted her team's line-up to her Instagram account approximately an hour before the official scheduled release on November 2. However, CA's Anti-Corruption Code prohibits a player to disclose any inside information. Smith has also been ruled out from the remaining Women Big Bash League. Cricket Australia's Head of Integrity and Security, Sean Carroll, said that there is no excuse for breaches regardless of the reasons for information being disclosed. "Whilst Cricket Australia acknowledges that at the time of posting the team line-up there was no intent to breach the Anti-Corruption Code, CA's rigorous anti-corruption player education program means that players are well aware of their obligations under the Anti-Corruption Code and there is no excuse for breaches regardless of the reasons for information being disclosed," Carroll said in a statement. "Since the commencement of the WBBL, Cricket Australia has had in place a robust anti-corruption program," Carroll continued. "We have been working with Emily throughout the process and Emily now understands the mistake she made. Unfortunately, in this instance Emily's actions breached the Anti-Corruption Code. We hope this serves as reminder to all that the Anti-Corruption Code is critical to protecting the integrity of the game," Carroll added.

Cricket Australia bans Hobart Hurricanes player Emily Smith for a year for breaching their Anti-Corruption Code.

Australia has lifted a temporary ban on the controversial live sheep exports, with the first ship due to depart for the Middle East this week with about 60,000 animals on board.

The live export trade has been under scrutiny since horrific footage of dead and dying heat-stressed sheep on vessels bound for the Middle East was released in April 2018, prompting a public outcry and forcing sweeping reforms to the industry.

Though the government resisted calls to outlaw the practice entirely, a review led to a temporary embargo on live exports during the northern-hemisphere summer from June to September this year.

Rural Export and Trading WA, an exporter, said that the ship is due to leave Fremantle, in Western Australia state, for Kuwait by Tuesday.

It is expected to be the first of many to depart in the coming months, much to the chagrin of animal welfare campaigners.

New guidelines introduced in 2018 required exporters to significantly increase cargo space for sheep and to ensure independent observers travel on all ships carrying live animals, with penalties for non-compliance including fines and jail time.

But activists argue that the measures will do little to mitigate the animals' heat stress and the trade should be further restricted.

The resumption of shipments was welcomed by the Australian Livestock Exporters' Council, which said the moratorium had meant "competitors have entered some of our markets."

Lifting the ban means "renewed stability and food security" for consumers, they argued.

Live sheep, goat and cattle exports are worth about $1.35 billion each year to Australia's economy, according to the lobby group.

Australia has lifted a temporary ban on the controversial live sheep exports, with the first ship due to depart for the Middle East this week with about 60,000 animals on board.

Australia has lifted a temporary ban on the controversial live sheep exports, with the first ship due to depart for the Middle East this week with about 60,000 animals on board. The live export trade has been under scrutiny since horrific footage of dead and dying heat-stressed sheep on vessels bound for the Middle East was released in April 2018, prompting a public outcry and forcing sweeping reforms to the industry. Though the government resisted calls to outlaw the practice entirely, a review led to a temporary embargo on live exports during the northern-hemisphere summer from June to September this year. Rural Export and Trading WA, an exporter, said that the ship is due to leave Fremantle, in Western Australia state, for Kuwait by Tuesday. It is expected to be the first of many to depart in the coming months, much to the chagrin of animal welfare campaigners. New guidelines introduced in 2018 required exporters to significantly increase cargo space for sheep and to ensure independent observers travel on all ships carrying live animals, with penalties for non-compliance including fines and jail time. But activists argue that the measures will do little to mitigate the animals' heat stress and the trade should be further restricted. The resumption of shipments was welcomed by the Australian Livestock Exporters' Council, which said the moratorium had meant "competitors have entered some of our markets." Lifting the ban means "renewed stability and food security" for consumers, they argued. Live sheep, goat and cattle exports are worth about $1.35 billion each year to Australia's economy, according to the lobby group.

Australia lifts temporary ban on live sheep exports

Sri Lanka spinner Akila Dananjaya has been banned for a year from bowling in international cricket due to an illegal action, the International Cricket Council said on Thursday.

Dananjaya, 25, was reported for a suspect action after last month's opening Test against New Zealand in Galle, during which he picked up six wickets in Sri Lanka's victory.

His bowling action was found to be illegal after he underwent independent assessment in the southern Indian city of Chennai, the ICC said in a statement.

Dananjaya was also reported for a suspect bowling action last November after a Test match against England and suspended the following month after an independent committee found it to be illegal.

He was cleared to bowl again in February following remedial work on his action.

"As the latest report constitutes the player's second report within a two-year period, the first of which led to a suspension, he is automatically suspended from bowling in international cricket for a period of 12 months," the ICC said.

"Dananjaya will be entitled to approach the ICC for a re-assessment of his bowling action after the expiry of this one-year period."

The Galle match against New Zealand was Dananjaya's first Test since his reinstatement.

He has taken 33 wickets in six Tests for Sri Lanka since making his debut against Bangladesh last year, as well as 51 wickets in one-dayers and 22 in Twenty20 internationals.

Sri Lanka spinner Akila Dananjaya has been banned for a year from bowling in international cricket due to an illegal action, the International Cricket Council said on Thursday.

Sri Lanka spinner Akila Dananjaya has been banned for a year from bowling in international cricket due to an illegal action, the International Cricket Council said on Thursday. Dananjaya, 25, was reported for a suspect action after last month's opening Test against New Zealand in Galle, during which he picked up six wickets in Sri Lanka's victory. His bowling action was found to be illegal after he underwent independent assessment in the southern Indian city of Chennai, the ICC said in a statement. Dananjaya was also reported for a suspect bowling action last November after a Test match against England and suspended the following month after an independent committee found it to be illegal. He was cleared to bowl again in February following remedial work on his action. "As the latest report constitutes the player's second report within a two-year period, the first of which led to a suspension, he is automatically suspended from bowling in international cricket for a period of 12 months," the ICC said. "Dananjaya will be entitled to approach the ICC for a re-assessment of his bowling action after the expiry of this one-year period." The Galle match against New Zealand was Dananjaya's first Test since his reinstatement. He has taken 33 wickets in six Tests for Sri Lanka since making his debut against Bangladesh last year, as well as 51 wickets in one-dayers and 22 in Twenty20 internationals.

Sri Lanka's Akila Dananjaya gets one-year ban due to illegal action

Amazon.com, Walmart-owned Flipkart and other e-commerce portals in India scrambled on Thursday to pull listings of vaping products a day after the federal government imposed a nationwide <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-bans-e-cigarettes-citing-health-hazards-250374">ban on electronic cigarettes</a>.

Warning of an "epidemic" among young people, India banned the sale, production, import and advertising of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-health-organization-says-e-cigarettes-undoubtedly-harmful-238779">e-cigarettes</a>, dealing a blow to plans of companies such as Philip Morris International and Juul Labs to sell the products in India.

Websites such as Vapestop and Litejoy, which offered vaping products online, discontinued their operations and ran disclaimers related to the government order.

Vaping products, however, were still available on Amazon's India site, while Flipkart and Softbank-backed Snapdeal removed e-cigarettes which were available earlier in the day, Reuters found.

"Online advertising and sales are banned. E-commerce service providers should take down the advertisements and sale offers immediately," Vikas Sheel, a senior health ministry official told Reuters, when asked about the online listings.

Amazon's India site was selling the "Honey Badger" vape device, which resembles a USB flash drive, for 2,799 rupees ($39.35), with flavoured refills. Flipkart had also listed the product earlier.

Amazon said e-cigarettes are not allowed to be listed or sold on&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://Amazon.co.in&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1568981438627000&amp;usg=AFQjCNEneKHjksBQXERzXjN7RgagedFjaA" href="http://amazon.co.in/" target="_blank">Amazon.co.in</a>&nbsp;as per its policy and it takes action if it learns about sellers evasively listing a prohibited product.

A source with direct knowledge said that Amazon was working to quickly remove the listings.

Flipkart in a statement said it was aware of the ban order and was working with sellers to remove all such products.

Snapdeal, another leading e-commerce website in India, said the e-cigarette category had been disabled.

On Wednesday, India's health ministry said use of e-cigarettes had increased exponentially and acquired epidemic proportions in developed countries, especially among youth and children.

India's ban was issued through an executive order, which has been in force since Wednesday night, a health ministry spokeswoman said.

Pro-vaping groups in India have criticized the government's decision, saying it would deter people from switching from conventional cigarettes to less harmful alternatives.

Amazon.com, Walmart-owned Flipkart and other e-commerce portals in India scrambled on Thursday to pull listings of vaping products a day after the federal government imposed a nationwide ban on electronic cigarettes.

Amazon.com, Walmart-owned Flipkart and other e-commerce portals in India scrambled on Thursday to pull listings of vaping products a day after the federal government imposed a nationwide ban on electronic cigarettes. Warning of an "epidemic" among young people, India banned the sale, production, import and advertising of e-cigarettes, dealing a blow to plans of companies such as Philip Morris International and Juul Labs to sell the products in India. Websites such as Vapestop and Litejoy, which offered vaping products online, discontinued their operations and ran disclaimers related to the government order. Vaping products, however, were still available on Amazon's India site, while Flipkart and Softbank-backed Snapdeal removed e-cigarettes which were available earlier in the day, Reuters found. "Online advertising and sales are banned. E-commerce service providers should take down the advertisements and sale offers immediately," Vikas Sheel, a senior health ministry official told Reuters, when asked about the online listings. Amazon's India site was selling the "Honey Badger" vape device, which resembles a USB flash drive, for 2,799 rupees ($39.35), with flavoured refills. Flipkart had also listed the product earlier. Amazon said e-cigarettes are not allowed to be listed or sold on Amazon.co.in as per its policy and it takes action if it learns about sellers evasively listing a prohibited product. A source with direct knowledge said that Amazon was working to quickly remove the listings. Flipkart in a statement said it was aware of the ban order and was working with sellers to remove all such products. Snapdeal, another leading e-commerce website in India, said the e-cigarette category had been disabled. On Wednesday, India's health ministry said use of e-cigarettes had increased exponentially and acquired epidemic proportions in developed countries, especially among youth and children. India's ban was issued through an executive order, which has been in force since Wednesday night, a health ministry spokeswoman said. Pro-vaping groups in India have criticized the government's decision, saying it would deter people from switching from conventional cigarettes to less harmful alternatives.

Flipkart, Amazon, others rush to pull vaping devices after India ban

The Taliban on Sunday revoked their ban on the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Afghanistan and gave a guarantee of security for its staff doing humanitarian work in areas under their control.

Taliban leaders imposed a ban on the ICRC and the World Health Organisation (WHO) in April saying the organisations were carrying out "suspicious" activities during vaccinations campaigns and not sticking to their declared missions.

"The Islamic Emirate restores the former security guarantees to ICRC in Afghanistan and instructs all mujahideen to pave the way for ICRC activities and be mindful of security to this committee's workers and equipment," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid in a statement.

The Taliban refer to themselves as the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.

The spokesman did not refer to the WHO in his statement.

Officials at ICRC and WHO in Kabul were not immediately available for comment.

The WHO has been carrying out a vaccination campaign in Afghanistan, one of the last countries in the world where polio is endemic. The ICRC has been providing medical support for more than 30 years.

Aid groups operating in Afghanistan stress that they do not take sides.

The ICRC, in particular, is known for its strict neutrality in conflicts.

It operates in Taliban-controlled areas with a guarantee of safety and helps to repatriate bodies from both sides after fighting between the militants and the Afghan army.

The Taliban control or contest more than half of Afghanistan's 410 Afghan districts.

The Taliban on Sunday revoked their ban on the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Afghanistan and gave a guarantee of security for its staff doing humanitarian work in areas under their control.

The Taliban on Sunday revoked their ban on the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Afghanistan and gave a guarantee of security for its staff doing humanitarian work in areas under their control. Taliban leaders imposed a ban on the ICRC and the World Health Organisation (WHO) in April saying the organisations were carrying out "suspicious" activities during vaccinations campaigns and not sticking to their declared missions. "The Islamic Emirate restores the former security guarantees to ICRC in Afghanistan and instructs all mujahideen to pave the way for ICRC activities and be mindful of security to this committee's workers and equipment," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid in a statement. The Taliban refer to themselves as the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. The spokesman did not refer to the WHO in his statement. Officials at ICRC and WHO in Kabul were not immediately available for comment. The WHO has been carrying out a vaccination campaign in Afghanistan, one of the last countries in the world where polio is endemic. The ICRC has been providing medical support for more than 30 years. Aid groups operating in Afghanistan stress that they do not take sides. The ICRC, in particular, is known for its strict neutrality in conflicts. It operates in Taliban-controlled areas with a guarantee of safety and helps to repatriate bodies from both sides after fighting between the militants and the Afghan army. The Taliban control or contest more than half of Afghanistan's 410 Afghan districts.

Taliban revoke the ban on Red Cross, provide security guarantees

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