Canada on Monday (Jan 22), in a bid to tackle the housing crisis and target institutional "bad actors", announced a two-year cap on the intake of international students, a move that could affect thousands of Indians.

In the year 2023, Canada had granted over a million study permits, which is roughly three times that of what was a decade ago, as per the government data.

The new proposal will slash the intake by nearly a third in 2024 as it aims to approve 364,000 undergraduate study permits, reducing the number by 35 per cent from last year.

The limit of 2025 will be reassessed at the end of 2024, reported CTV news.

<h2>What did Immigration Minister Marc Miller say?</h2>

While addressing a press conference earlier on Monday, Canada's immigration minister, Marc Miller highlighted that the move by the federal government would help them with an opportunity to tackle the exploitative system of high tuition fees being charged by the institutions.

"These measures are to ensure that as future students arrive in Canada, they receive the quality of education that they signed up for and the hope that they were provided in their home countries. It would be a disservice to welcome international students to Canada knowing that now all of them are getting the resources they need to succeed in Canada. Allowing bad actors to continue their operations would be a disservice to all of the good institutions who pride themselves on providing a top-tier academic experience," Miller said.

“It is unacceptable that some private institutions have taken advantage of international students by operating under-resourced campuses, lacking support for students, and charging high tuition fees – all the while significantly increasing their intake of international students," he added.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-announces-two-year-cap-on-international-students-how-will-it-affect-indians-682574">&nbsp;Canada announces two-year cap on international students</a>

He&nbsp;then mentioned that for the current year, the cap will result in the approval of 364,000 study permits, with the country witnessing a reduction of 35 per cent in the approval of visas from what was in 2023.

"For 2024, the cap is expected to result in approximately 364,000 approved study permits, a decrease of 35% from 2023," the immigration minister said.

He then said that the government would allocate the cap space by province based on population, which means that some provinces will witness much more significant reductions in the number of students permitted.

"In the spirit of fairness, we are also allocating the cap space by province based on population…some provinces will see much more significant reductions. Some provinces will actually have room to [grow] if they so choose but the provinces that have been most heavily affected will have to decrease by about 50% or perhaps even a bit more than 50%, when it comes to new incoming [students]," he said.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Is Canada's education sector failing?

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&nbsp;

<h2>Who will be impacted?</h2>

The students who had plans to pursue various courses in Canada would be the worst affected by the new norms announced by the government.

Not only this, many educational institutions that had grown their campuses in the hopes of continuing to attract students may suffer as a result of the move as the Canadian economy receives an estimated yearly contribution of C$22 billion ($16.4 billion) from international students.

As per news agency Reuters reports, restaurants across Canada are struggling with&nbsp;a shortage of labour with approximately 100,000 vacancies as foreign students have so far made up 4.6% of the 1.1 million workers in the food service sector in 2023.

Even Canadian banks have profited from the influx of new students as it is mandatory for each student to have a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) worth more than C$20,000 so that they can pay for their living expenses.

However, the cap will not apply to students in graduate-level programmes, including master's or doctoral studies.&nbsp;

Also, the ones having study permits at the elementary and secondary school levels will be exempted.

"To be clear, the cap will not apply to applicants within Canada looking to extend their studies as it wouldn't be fair to prevent someone from finishing their programme. Nor will the cap have an effect on study permit holders currently in Canada."

<h2>Work permit situation</h2>

The new measures will also impose certain limitations on post-graduate work permits granted to international students which will most likely push them to go back to their home countries.

Work permits will only be made available to the spouses of foreign students enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs. The spouses of international students enrolled in other levels of study, including undergraduate and college programs, will no longer be eligible, Miller said. The acceptance of new study permit applications in 2025 will be subject to reassessment at the end of the current year, he said.

"In the coming weeks we will be announcing that open work permits will only be allowed and be available to spouses of international students enrolled in master's and doctoral programmes as well as those enrolled in professional programmes, such as medicine and law. Spouses of students enrolled in other levels of study, including undergraduate and college programmes, will no longer be eligible [for work permits]," the Canadian immigration minister said.

In the past, the permits were viewed as a simple way to get permanent residency. Individuals who are enrolled in post-doctoral or master's programmes qualify for a three-year work permit.

<h2>How will it affect Indians?</h2>

Canada, in recent years, has received an influx of Indians who form one of the largest groups of international students in the country.

Over 41% - or 225,835 - of all permits were handed over to Indians in the year 2022.

As per Canadian government statistics, in September 2023, Indians comprised nearly 40 per cent of the international students that were permitted inside the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

Canada on Monday (Jan 22), in a bid to tackle the housing crisis and target institutional "bad actors", announced a two-year cap on the intake of international students, a move that could affect thousands of Indians.

Canada on Monday (Jan 22), in a bid to tackle the housing crisis and target institutional "bad actors", announced a two-year cap on the intake of international students, a move that could affect thousands of Indians. In the year 2023, Canada had granted over a million study permits, which is roughly three times that of what was a decade ago, as per the government data. The new proposal will slash the intake by nearly a third in 2024 as it aims to approve 364,000 undergraduate study permits, reducing the number by 35 per cent from last year. The limit of 2025 will be reassessed at the end of 2024, reported CTV news. What did Immigration Minister Marc Miller say? While addressing a press conference earlier on Monday, Canada's immigration minister, Marc Miller highlighted that the move by the federal government would help them with an opportunity to tackle the exploitative system of high tuition fees being charged by the institutions. "These measures are to ensure that as future students arrive in Canada, they receive the quality of education that they signed up for and the hope that they were provided in their home countries. It would be a disservice to welcome international students to Canada knowing that now all of them are getting the resources they need to succeed in Canada. Allowing bad actors to continue their operations would be a disservice to all of the good institutions who pride themselves on providing a top-tier academic experience," Miller said. “It is unacceptable that some private institutions have taken advantage of international students by operating under-resourced campuses, lacking support for students, and charging high tuition fees – all the while significantly increasing their intake of international students," he added. Also read: Canada announces two-year cap on international students He then mentioned that for the current year, the cap will result in the approval of 364,000 study permits, with the country witnessing a reduction of 35 per cent in the approval of visas from what was in 2023. "For 2024, the cap is expected to result in approximately 364,000 approved study permits, a decrease of 35% from 2023," the immigration minister said. He then said that the government would allocate the cap space by province based on population, which means that some provinces will witness much more significant reductions in the number of students permitted. "In the spirit of fairness, we are also allocating the cap space by province based on population…some provinces will see much more significant reductions. Some provinces will actually have room to [grow] if they so choose but the provinces that have been most heavily affected will have to decrease by about 50% or perhaps even a bit more than 50%, when it comes to new incoming [students]," he said. WATCH | Gravitas: Is Canada's education sector failing? × Who will be impacted? The students who had plans to pursue various courses in Canada would be the worst affected by the new norms announced by the government. Not only this, many educational institutions that had grown their campuses in the hopes of continuing to attract students may suffer as a result of the move as the Canadian economy receives an estimated yearly contribution of C$22 billion ($16.4 billion) from international students. As per news agency Reuters reports, restaurants across Canada are struggling with a shortage of labour with approximately 100,000 vacancies as foreign students have so far made up 4.6% of the 1.1 million workers in the food service sector in 2023. Even Canadian banks have profited from the influx of new students as it is mandatory for each student to have a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) worth more than C$20,000 so that they can pay for their living expenses. However, the cap will not apply to students in graduate-level programmes, including master's or doctoral studies. Also, the ones having study permits at the elementary and secondary school levels will be exempted. "To be clear, the cap will not apply to applicants within Canada looking to extend their studies as it wouldn't be fair to prevent someone from finishing their programme. Nor will the cap have an effect on study permit holders currently in Canada." Work permit situation The new measures will also impose certain limitations on post-graduate work permits granted to international students which will most likely push them to go back to their home countries. Work permits will only be made available to the spouses of foreign students enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs. The spouses of international students enrolled in other levels of study, including undergraduate and college programs, will no longer be eligible, Miller said. The acceptance of new study permit applications in 2025 will be subject to reassessment at the end of the current year, he said. "In the coming weeks we will be announcing that open work permits will only be allowed and be available to spouses of international students enrolled in master's and doctoral programmes as well as those enrolled in professional programmes, such as medicine and law. Spouses of students enrolled in other levels of study, including undergraduate and college programmes, will no longer be eligible [for work permits]," the Canadian immigration minister said. In the past, the permits were viewed as a simple way to get permanent residency. Individuals who are enrolled in post-doctoral or master's programmes qualify for a three-year work permit. How will it affect Indians? Canada, in recent years, has received an influx of Indians who form one of the largest groups of international students in the country. Over 41% - or 225,835 - of all permits were handed over to Indians in the year 2022. As per Canadian government statistics, in September 2023, Indians comprised nearly 40 per cent of the international students that were permitted inside the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Canada's new visa norms and their impact on Indian students

Canada has announced a temporary cap on foreign students for two years. The immigration minister has cited Canada's housing crisis for this. Has Prime Minister Justin Trudeau failed Canada's education system?

Gravitas: Is Canada's education sector failing?

Canada's prime minister is expected to chair a 3-day meeting with top lawmakers, in a bid to address the country's inflation crisis and slumping popularity among voters. Can Trudeau regain lost ground before 2025 polls?

Justin Trudeau's liberal party scrambles to regain ground before elections

A man who has been accused of playing a role in the 1991 killing of his wife was extradited earlier this month from Costa Rica, ending his more than three decades on the run, said the US police, on Monday (Jan 22).&nbsp;

In 2022, the man suspected of his wife’s murder, Jose Lazaro Cruz, 60, was arrested in Costa Rica and brought back to Fairfax County, Virginia, earlier this month, ending the 32-year-old case.

<h2>About the case</h2>

On April 30, 1991, the police responded to a call about the stabbing and found Ana Jurado, 24, dead in the street, said Eli Cory, Fairfax County’s deputy chief of investigation. She is said to have suffered a slashing wound to her neck and bled to death, according to the police.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Canada to slash intake of foreign students, announces two-year cap on visas

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&nbsp;

Lazaro Cruz, who was Jurado’s then-estranged husband was identified as the suspected killer and charged a month later, but he fled.&nbsp;

Jurado was the mother of three at the time of her death. Her three-year-old and seven-month-old daughters lived with her in the US while her four-year-old son lived in El Salvador.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Not a typical cold case’</h2>

Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis, as per CNN, said this case is not a “traditional cold case” as Lazaro Cruz was identified right away, he was just “on the lam.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/texas-sc-grants-temporary-relief-for-removal-of-razor-wire-fencing-blocking-border-crossings-682754">Texas: SC grants temporary relief for removal of razor-wire fencing used to block border crossings</a>

According to the police, Lazaro Cruz, after the murder tried to flee to Canada but was refused entry due to falsified documents. Cory also said that one of the border agents said they noticed what appeared to be a “fresh cut” on his hand at the time.

The suspected murderer then managed to evade authorities and travelled to Houston, Texas, from where he is believed to have been smuggled out of the United States with the help of a smuggler, eventually ending up in El Salvador.&nbsp;

However, at the time, El Salvador did not have any mechanisms or policies in place which would allow Lazaro Cruz’s extradition. It was not until 2000, that the country’s constitution was amended, which allowed extradition of Salvadoran nationals.

In 2022, the US Justice Department said that Lazaro Cruz had been detained by Costa Rican authorities while trying to enter their country from Nicaragua.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-hampshire-primary-haley-beats-trump-in-dixville-notch-after-winning-six-person-midnight-vote-682752">New Hampshire primary: Nikki Haley bags all 6 votes to beat Trump in Dixville Notch</a>

According to Cory, Lazaro Cruz remarried and had several children since the 1991 killing and “definitely started a whole new life in El Salvador.”&nbsp;

As of now though, while the official charges against him are being sorted, the alleged murderer is in the Fairfax County Correctional Center awaiting trial.

(With inputs from agencies)

A man who has been accused of playing a role in the 1991 killing of his wife was extradited earlier this month from Costa Rica, ending his more than three decades on the run, said the US police, on Monday (Jan 22).

A man who has been accused of playing a role in the 1991 killing of his wife was extradited earlier this month from Costa Rica, ending his more than three decades on the run, said the US police, on Monday (Jan 22). In 2022, the man suspected of his wife’s murder, Jose Lazaro Cruz, 60, was arrested in Costa Rica and brought back to Fairfax County, Virginia, earlier this month, ending the 32-year-old case. About the case On April 30, 1991, the police responded to a call about the stabbing and found Ana Jurado, 24, dead in the street, said Eli Cory, Fairfax County’s deputy chief of investigation. She is said to have suffered a slashing wound to her neck and bled to death, according to the police. WATCH | Canada to slash intake of foreign students, announces two-year cap on visas Lazaro Cruz, who was Jurado’s then-estranged husband was identified as the suspected killer and charged a month later, but he fled. Jurado was the mother of three at the time of her death. Her three-year-old and seven-month-old daughters lived with her in the US while her four-year-old son lived in El Salvador. ‘Not a typical cold case’ Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis, as per CNN, said this case is not a “traditional cold case” as Lazaro Cruz was identified right away, he was just “on the lam.” ALSO READ | Texas: SC grants temporary relief for removal of razor-wire fencing used to block border crossings According to the police, Lazaro Cruz, after the murder tried to flee to Canada but was refused entry due to falsified documents. Cory also said that one of the border agents said they noticed what appeared to be a “fresh cut” on his hand at the time. The suspected murderer then managed to evade authorities and travelled to Houston, Texas, from where he is believed to have been smuggled out of the United States with the help of a smuggler, eventually ending up in El Salvador. However, at the time, El Salvador did not have any mechanisms or policies in place which would allow Lazaro Cruz’s extradition. It was not until 2000, that the country’s constitution was amended, which allowed extradition of Salvadoran nationals. In 2022, the US Justice Department said that Lazaro Cruz had been detained by Costa Rican authorities while trying to enter their country from Nicaragua. ALSO READ | New Hampshire primary: Nikki Haley bags all 6 votes to beat Trump in Dixville Notch According to Cory, Lazaro Cruz remarried and had several children since the 1991 killing and “definitely started a whole new life in El Salvador.” As of now though, while the official charges against him are being sorted, the alleged murderer is in the Fairfax County Correctional Center awaiting trial. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Husband accused of wife’s murder extradited from Costa Rica after evading arrest for 30 years

The Canadian government on Monday announced that the number of student visas granted over the next two years will be capped. In 2024, a total of 360,000 undergraduate study permits will be approved, a 35% dip from 2023.

Canada to restrict number of foreign students in the country

Canada to slash intake of foreign students, announces two-year cap on visas

Canada announced two-year cap on foreign students visas

Canada is set to slash the number of international student permits by 35 per cent in 2025 as a part of its two-year limit on international student admissions, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced on Monday morning (Jan 22).

While addressing a press conference earlier today, Miller claimed that the move would provide the government with an opportunity to manage the exploitative system of high tuition fees being charged by the institutions.

"These measures are to ensure that as future students arrive in Canada, they receive the quality of education that they signed up for and the hope that they were provided in their home countries. It would be a disservice to welcome international students to Canada knowing that now all of them are getting the resources they need to succeed in Canada. Allowing bad actors to continue their operations would be a disservice to all of the good institutions who pride themselves on providing a top-tier academic experience," Miller said.

“It is unacceptable that some private institutions have taken advantage of international students by operating under-resourced campuses, lacking support for students, and charging high tuition fees – all the while significantly increasing their intake of international students," he added.

The cap will slash the number of approved study permits this year to 364,000. The limit of 2025 will reassessed at the end of 2024, reported CTV news.

"For 2024, the cap is expected to result in approximately 364,000 approved study permits, a decrease of 35% from 2023," the immigration minister said.

However, the students applying for master's and PhD programmes will be exempted from the cap.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-terminates-golden-visa-in-immigration-overhaul-over-delivering-poor-economic-outcomes-682536">Australia terminates ‘golden ticket’ visa scheme in immigration overhaul</a>

“Those are the bright people we need to retain,” he added.

He then said that the government would allocate the cap space by province based on population, which means that some provinces will witness much more significant reductions in the number of students permitted.

"In the spirit of fairness, we are also allocating the cap space by province based on population…some provinces will see much more significant reductions. Some provinces will actually have room to [grow] if they so choose but the provinces that have been most heavily affected will have to decrease by about 50% or perhaps even a bit more than 50%, when it comes to new incoming [students]," he said.

<h2>How the cap would affect Indians?</h2>

Canada in recent years, has received an influx of Indians who form one of the largest groups of international students in the country.

Over 41% - or 225,835 - of all permits were handed over to Indians in the year 2022.

Watch |&nbsp;Canada: No funding for research linked to foreign institutes

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&nbsp;

As per Canadian government statistics, in September 2023, Indians comprised nearly 40 per cent of the international students that were permitted inside the country.

Miller's announcement also comes amid Canada's ongoing housing crisis.

"Right now we have a challenge with the sheer volume" of students coming in, Reuters quoted Miller as saying. "It's just gotten out of control and needs to be reduced - I would say - significantly over a short period of time."

It is pertinent to note that the cap will not apply to the applicants within Canada looking to extend their studies nor to the ones having study permits.

It would only apply to the ones applying for study visas for bachelor programmes or diplomas and students applying for master's and PhD programs will be exempted.

"To be clear, the cap will not apply to applicants within Canada looking to extend their studies as it wouldn't be fair to prevent someone from finishing their programme. Nor will the cap have an effect on study permit holders currently in Canada," Miller said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Canada is set to slash the number of international student permits by 35 per cent in 2025 as a part of its two-year limit on international student admissions, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced on Monday morning (Jan 22).

Canada is set to slash the number of international student permits by 35 per cent in 2025 as a part of its two-year limit on international student admissions, Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced on Monday morning (Jan 22). While addressing a press conference earlier today, Miller claimed that the move would provide the government with an opportunity to manage the exploitative system of high tuition fees being charged by the institutions. "These measures are to ensure that as future students arrive in Canada, they receive the quality of education that they signed up for and the hope that they were provided in their home countries. It would be a disservice to welcome international students to Canada knowing that now all of them are getting the resources they need to succeed in Canada. Allowing bad actors to continue their operations would be a disservice to all of the good institutions who pride themselves on providing a top-tier academic experience," Miller said. “It is unacceptable that some private institutions have taken advantage of international students by operating under-resourced campuses, lacking support for students, and charging high tuition fees – all the while significantly increasing their intake of international students," he added. The cap will slash the number of approved study permits this year to 364,000. The limit of 2025 will reassessed at the end of 2024, reported CTV news. "For 2024, the cap is expected to result in approximately 364,000 approved study permits, a decrease of 35% from 2023," the immigration minister said. However, the students applying for master's and PhD programmes will be exempted from the cap. Also read: Australia terminates ‘golden ticket’ visa scheme in immigration overhaul “Those are the bright people we need to retain,” he added. He then said that the government would allocate the cap space by province based on population, which means that some provinces will witness much more significant reductions in the number of students permitted. "In the spirit of fairness, we are also allocating the cap space by province based on population…some provinces will see much more significant reductions. Some provinces will actually have room to [grow] if they so choose but the provinces that have been most heavily affected will have to decrease by about 50% or perhaps even a bit more than 50%, when it comes to new incoming [students]," he said. How the cap would affect Indians? Canada in recent years, has received an influx of Indians who form one of the largest groups of international students in the country. Over 41% - or 225,835 - of all permits were handed over to Indians in the year 2022. Watch | Canada: No funding for research linked to foreign institutes × As per Canadian government statistics, in September 2023, Indians comprised nearly 40 per cent of the international students that were permitted inside the country. Miller's announcement also comes amid Canada's ongoing housing crisis. "Right now we have a challenge with the sheer volume" of students coming in, Reuters quoted Miller as saying. "It's just gotten out of control and needs to be reduced - I would say - significantly over a short period of time." It is pertinent to note that the cap will not apply to the applicants within Canada looking to extend their studies nor to the ones having study permits. It would only apply to the ones applying for study visas for bachelor programmes or diplomas and students applying for master's and PhD programs will be exempted. "To be clear, the cap will not apply to applicants within Canada looking to extend their studies as it wouldn't be fair to prevent someone from finishing their programme. Nor will the cap have an effect on study permit holders currently in Canada," Miller said. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada announces two-year cap on international students. How will it affect Indians?

Preparations are in full swing for the upcoming Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, scheduled for January 22, 2024. &nbsp;The significance of the event extends beyond the world's most populous nation as the towns of Oakville and Brampton in Ontario, Canada, have officially declared January 22, 2024, as "Ayodhya Ram Mandir Day."

Mayors Rob Burton of Oakville and Patrick Brown of Brampton have recognised the deep-rooted aspirations of the Hindu community. With a focus on the cultural, religious, and historical importance of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir inauguration on January 22, 2024, the day has been deemed special as god Ram is revered by Hindus in these two towns.&nbsp;

Stating that the inauguration of the Ram Temple, holds "immense cultural, religious, and historical significance for Hindus worldwide", the Oakville Mayor’s proclamation read, "I call upon all residents to join in commemorating this historic event and the celebrate the values of peace, unit, and cultural diversity that it represents".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-ram-mandir-a-confluence-of-devotion-faith-and-science-681683">Ayodhya Ram Mandir: A confluence of devotion, faith and science</a>

The inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is set for January 22, 2024, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to lead the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony.&nbsp;

The significance of this occasion has prompted various states across India to declare holidays or half-days, with Central Government offices remaining closed until 2:30 PM on the day of the Ram temple ceremony.

<h2>Ram Mandir consecration-related events in the United States</h2>

Temples across the United States are also gearing up for celebrations in honour of the consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.&nbsp;

Events, including the recitation of holy scriptures Sundar Kanda as well as Ramcharitmanas have already commenced this week and will conclude on January 22. The Hindu community in the US, especially Indian Americans, is participating in these festivities.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ayodhya Ram Mandir becomes global phenomenon

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Sundara Kanda is the only chapter of the Ramayana—the story of Lord Ram— in which the principal protagonist is not Rama, but Hanuman. Its recitation is believed to ward off ailments, anxieties, and mental suffering. Ramcharitmanas is a simplified description of events of Ramayana, composed by sixteenth-century devotional saint Tulsidas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Approximately 1,000 temples across the United States are organising events, including car rallies, cultural programs, and religious ceremonies, to commemorate this historic occasion. The celebrations will include, music, dance, and the distribution of divine offerings (prasad).

(With inputs from agencies)

Preparations are in full swing for the upcoming Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, scheduled for January 22, 2024. The significance of the event extends beyond the world's most populous nation as the towns of Oakville and Brampton in Ontario, Canada, have officially declared January 22, 2024, as "Ayodhya Ram Mandir Day.

Preparations are in full swing for the upcoming Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, scheduled for January 22, 2024. The significance of the event extends beyond the world's most populous nation as the towns of Oakville and Brampton in Ontario, Canada, have officially declared January 22, 2024, as "Ayodhya Ram Mandir Day." Mayors Rob Burton of Oakville and Patrick Brown of Brampton have recognised the deep-rooted aspirations of the Hindu community. With a focus on the cultural, religious, and historical importance of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir inauguration on January 22, 2024, the day has been deemed special as god Ram is revered by Hindus in these two towns. Stating that the inauguration of the Ram Temple, holds "immense cultural, religious, and historical significance for Hindus worldwide", the Oakville Mayor’s proclamation read, "I call upon all residents to join in commemorating this historic event and the celebrate the values of peace, unit, and cultural diversity that it represents". Also read | Ayodhya Ram Mandir: A confluence of devotion, faith and science The inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is set for January 22, 2024, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to lead the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony. The significance of this occasion has prompted various states across India to declare holidays or half-days, with Central Government offices remaining closed until 2:30 PM on the day of the Ram temple ceremony. Ram Mandir consecration-related events in the United States Temples across the United States are also gearing up for celebrations in honour of the consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Events, including the recitation of holy scriptures Sundar Kanda as well as Ramcharitmanas have already commenced this week and will conclude on January 22. The Hindu community in the US, especially Indian Americans, is participating in these festivities. Also watch | Gravitas: Ayodhya Ram Mandir becomes global phenomenon × Sundara Kanda is the only chapter of the Ramayana—the story of Lord Ram— in which the principal protagonist is not Rama, but Hanuman. Its recitation is believed to ward off ailments, anxieties, and mental suffering. Ramcharitmanas is a simplified description of events of Ramayana, composed by sixteenth-century devotional saint Tulsidas. Approximately 1,000 temples across the United States are organising events, including car rallies, cultural programs, and religious ceremonies, to commemorate this historic occasion. The celebrations will include, music, dance, and the distribution of divine offerings (prasad). (With inputs from agencies)

Ram temple inauguration: Jan 22 to be marked as 'Ayodhya Ram Mandir Day' in these Canadian cities

Shawn Barber, the Canadian record holder and 2015 world champion in pole vault, has died at the age of 29.

Barber's agent Paul Doyle confirmed to Reuters he died Wednesday at home in Kirkwood, Texas of medical complications.

"More than just an incredible athlete, Shawn was such a good-hearted person that always put others ahead of himself," Doyle said on Thursday. "It's tragic to lose such a good person at such a young age."

Barber claimed gold at the 2015 Pan American Games and weeks later, the then 21-year-old upset a field including silver medallist Raphael Holzdeppe of Germany and favourite Renaud Lavillenie, who won bronze, in capturing the world title in Beijing.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-2024-sabalenka-refuses-to-shake-hands-with-ukraines-tsurenko-after-third-round-win-681405">Australian Open 2024: Sabalenka refuses to shake hands with Ukraine's Tsurenko after third-round win</a>

Barber's best jump of 6.0 metres set on Jan. 15, 2016 is still the Canadian record. He also competed at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

Barber first competed in pole vault at the age of seven, shattering the U.S. high school record by more than a foot before winning back-to-back NCAA indoor titles for the University of Akron in 2014 and '15 and then the 2015 NCAA outdoor title.

The vaulter held dual citizenship as his father George, his coach for most of his life, was born in Kincardine, northwest of Toronto. When he was first named to a Canadian team he said he chose to compete for Canada to follow in his dad's footsteps.

Barber is survived by his father, mother Ann, and brother David.

Shawn Barber, the Canadian record holder and 2015 world champion in pole vault, has died at the age of 29. Barber's agent Paul Doyle confirmed to Reuters he died Wednesday at home in Kirkwood, Texas of medical complications.

Shawn Barber, the Canadian record holder and 2015 world champion in pole vault, has died at the age of 29. Barber's agent Paul Doyle confirmed to Reuters he died Wednesday at home in Kirkwood, Texas of medical complications. "More than just an incredible athlete, Shawn was such a good-hearted person that always put others ahead of himself," Doyle said on Thursday. "It's tragic to lose such a good person at such a young age." Barber claimed gold at the 2015 Pan American Games and weeks later, the then 21-year-old upset a field including silver medallist Raphael Holzdeppe of Germany and favourite Renaud Lavillenie, who won bronze, in capturing the world title in Beijing. ALSO READ: Australian Open 2024: Sabalenka refuses to shake hands with Ukraine's Tsurenko after third-round win Barber's best jump of 6.0 metres set on Jan. 15, 2016 is still the Canadian record. He also competed at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. Barber first competed in pole vault at the age of seven, shattering the U.S. high school record by more than a foot before winning back-to-back NCAA indoor titles for the University of Akron in 2014 and '15 and then the 2015 NCAA outdoor title. The vaulter held dual citizenship as his father George, his coach for most of his life, was born in Kincardine, northwest of Toronto. When he was first named to a Canadian team he said he chose to compete for Canada to follow in his dad's footsteps. Barber is survived by his father, mother Ann, and brother David.

Pole Vault: Former world champion Shawn Barber dies at 29 due to medical complications

Indian authorities have said they could assist Canada in investigating the links of criminal gangs operating in the country and targeting Indo-Canadians. India’s High Commissioner to Ottawa, Sanjay Kumar Verma made the remark but added that it would assist only if there is a formal request from Ottawa.

Indian authorities have said they could assist Canada in investigating the links of criminal gangs operating in the country and targeting Indo-Canadians. India’s High Commissioner to Ottawa, Sanjay Kumar Verma made the remark but added that it would assist only if there is a formal request from Ottawa. Canadian security agencies have alleged that crime rackets operating in Edmonton, Alberta and other provinces were being "orchestrated from India". “Canadians are yet to request, with evidence. If specific and relevant evidence, not merely unsubstantiated allegations, are shared with us, pointing to links between Canadian extortionists and Indian gangsters, we shall act accordingly,” Verma was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times Verma added that there were “existing mechanisms between the two governments to cooperate on organised crimes" and that New Delhi will pay heed if concrete proof is presented. The Edmonton Police Service is of the view that a series of extortion, arsons and shooting in Alberta's capital region are being orchestrated by a network, operating from India. On Thursday (Jan 18), the EPS released a video of a vehicle that was used in a drive-by shooting which they believe is connected to an extortion scheme that has so far exclusively targeted South Asian home builders in Edmonton. "It's our belief they're targeting home builders maybe because...the people perpetrating these crimes view them as being affluent and able to provide funds," Staff Sgt. David Paton said during a briefing. Watch | Gravitas: Indian students' shift away from Canadian colleges amidst diplomatic row × According to reports, the police is investigating 27 events linked to an "extortion series" that have transpired in the region since October last year. Trudeau's liberal policies haunting him? Experts are of the view that the freedom provided by the liberal regime of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to anti-India elements had finally started to catch up. Gang wars and Khalistani activities have become a norm in Canada. Although, the South Asian communities are currently the target, it may not take long for the organised criminal gangs to change their target demography as they gain more power. Also read | Canada considers cap on international students amid housing crisis India's willingness to cooperate with Canada comes at a time when Ottawa has done irreparable damage to the relations between the two nations. Last year, Trudeau addressed the Canadian parliament and said it had credible allegations that New Delhi was involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. (With inputs from agencies)

India willing to assist Canada's extortion probe if Ottawa requests, says envoy

A US winter storm warning has been issued for more than 100 million people, and a new wave of extreme cold and snow is expected to sweep through the central and eastern United States, intensifying travel hazards and ushering in a brutally cold weekend.

Snowfall in US, Canada: US weather office warns of severe snow storms in coming weeks

Snowfall grips United States northwest and Canada | US News | WION

Two Canadian mayors have urged Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his government to tackle increasing extortion threats toward businesses in their cities that particularly target Indo-Canadians.

Local reports mentioned that the mayors of Brampton, Ont., and Surrey, B.C. sent a letter to the federal minister of public safety this week, stating that they are deeply concerned for their communities due to the threats. As per the report, the threats are majorly directed towards South Asians.&nbsp;

The letter signed by Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown and Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke, read: "These incidents have instilled fear in our communities and highlight the urgent need for a coordinated response involving multiple jurisdictions."&nbsp;

"We urge your ministry to recognise the inter-jurisdictional nature of these threats and to spearhead a coordinated response that ensures the safety and security of all affected communities across Canada," they added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/khalistani-terrorist-pannun-issues-death-threat-to-punjab-cm-bhagwant-mann-report-680529">Khalistani terrorist Pannun issues fresh warning to Indian PM Narendra Modi: ‘I dare Modi...’</a>&nbsp;

The situation is quite serious as the mayors said recent reports have confirmed that there are links between the extortion attempts and violent acts in their provinces.&nbsp;

The mayors wrote in their letter, "It is imperative the federal government, through your ministry, takes a leading role in facilitating this collaboration."&nbsp;

"By leveraging the resources and intelligence capabilities of the RCMP, in concert with local law enforcement agencies, we can formulate a robust and unified approach to tackle this issue," they added.&nbsp;

As quoted by CBC, a spokesperson for the federal public safety minister said the RCMP is working with local police forces to tackle the issue.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qantas-airways-issues-full-refund-after-passengers-allege-10-hour-flight-sitting-in-urine-680914">Qantas Airways issues full refund after passengers allege 10-hour flight 'sitting in urine'</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Reports find 90% of child sexual abuse content to be self-created&nbsp;

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In a statement, Jean-Sebastien Comeau wrote: "These threats of extortion are deeply concerning. "If Canadians suspect they are the target of an extortion attempt, they should report it immediately to their local police force."&nbsp;

Peel Regional Police last month said that it had launched a task force to assess a "disturbing trend" of extortion threats, which are mostly targeting the South Asian business community.&nbsp;

Peel police Chief Nishan Duraiappah wrote in a December statement: "This has caused grave safety and security concerns among our community members. Terrorising our residents will not be tolerated."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Two Canadian mayors have urged Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his government to tackle increasing extortion threats toward businesses in their cities that particularly target Indo-Canadians.

Two Canadian mayors have urged Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his government to tackle increasing extortion threats toward businesses in their cities that particularly target Indo-Canadians. Local reports mentioned that the mayors of Brampton, Ont., and Surrey, B.C. sent a letter to the federal minister of public safety this week, stating that they are deeply concerned for their communities due to the threats. As per the report, the threats are majorly directed towards South Asians. The letter signed by Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown and Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke, read: "These incidents have instilled fear in our communities and highlight the urgent need for a coordinated response involving multiple jurisdictions." "We urge your ministry to recognise the inter-jurisdictional nature of these threats and to spearhead a coordinated response that ensures the safety and security of all affected communities across Canada," they added. Also read: Khalistani terrorist Pannun issues fresh warning to Indian PM Narendra Modi: ‘I dare Modi...’ The situation is quite serious as the mayors said recent reports have confirmed that there are links between the extortion attempts and violent acts in their provinces. The mayors wrote in their letter, "It is imperative the federal government, through your ministry, takes a leading role in facilitating this collaboration." "By leveraging the resources and intelligence capabilities of the RCMP, in concert with local law enforcement agencies, we can formulate a robust and unified approach to tackle this issue," they added. As quoted by CBC, a spokesperson for the federal public safety minister said the RCMP is working with local police forces to tackle the issue. Also read: Qantas Airways issues full refund after passengers allege 10-hour flight 'sitting in urine' Watch: Reports find 90% of child sexual abuse content to be self-created × In a statement, Jean-Sebastien Comeau wrote: "These threats of extortion are deeply concerning. "If Canadians suspect they are the target of an extortion attempt, they should report it immediately to their local police force." Peel Regional Police last month said that it had launched a task force to assess a "disturbing trend" of extortion threats, which are mostly targeting the South Asian business community. Peel police Chief Nishan Duraiappah wrote in a December statement: "This has caused grave safety and security concerns among our community members. Terrorising our residents will not be tolerated." (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian mayors urge Trudeau government to tackle rising extortion threats against Indo-Canadians

The number of study permits Canada issued to Indian students fell sharply late last year after India ejected Canadian diplomats who would process the permits and fewer Indian students applied due to a diplomatic dispute over the murder of a Sikh separatist leader in Canada, a top Canadian official told Reuters.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller said in an interview that he believes the number of study permits for Indians is unlikely to rebound soon. Diplomatic tensions erupted after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in June said there was evidence connecting Indian government agents to the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia.

The tensions are likely to weigh on the numbers going forward, Miller said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/houthis-set-to-become-global-terrorists-amid-red-sea-attacks-heres-what-it-means-680674">Houthis set to become 'global terrorists' amid Red Sea attacks. Here's what it means</a>

"Our relationship with India has really halved our ability to process a lot of applications from India," Miller said.

In October, Canada was forced to pull 41 diplomats, or two-thirds of its staff, out of India on orders from New Delhi. In addition, the dispute has prompted Indian students to seek to study in other countries, a spokeswoman for the minister said.

Those factors led to an 86% drop in study permits issued to Indians in the fourth quarter of last year&nbsp;from the previous quarter to 14,910 from 108,940, according to official data that have not been previously reported.

C. Gurusubramanian, counsellor for the High Commission of India in Ottawa, said some Indian international students were looking at other options besides Canada due to "concerns, in the recent past, regarding lack of residential and adequate teaching facilities" at some Canadian institutions.

Indians have formed the largest group of international students in Canada in recent years, with more than 41% - or 225,835 - of all permits going to them in 2022.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-population-declines-for-2nd-straight-year-drops-by-275-million-to-1409-billion-in-2023-680663">China's population declines for 2nd straight year, drops by 2.75 million to 1.409 billion in 2023</a>

"I can't tell you about how the diplomatic relationship will evolve, particularly if police were to lay charges," Miller said. "It's not something that I see any light at the end of the tunnel on."

International students are a cash cow for Canadian universities as they bring in about C$22 billion ($16.4 billion) annually and the slowdown will be a blow to the institutions.

In June, Canada said there were "credible" allegations linking Indian agents to the murder of Nijjar in a Vancouver suburb. India has rejected that allegation. Canadian authorities have yet to charge anyone for the killing.

Last year, the US&nbsp;Justice Department charged a 52-year-old man who had worked with an Indian government employee with plotting to assassinate a New York City resident who advocated for a Sikh sovereign state in northern India.

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The Canadian government also has been seeking to reduce the overall number of international students entering the country, in part as a response to an ongoing housing shortage.

"Right now we have a challenge with the sheer volume" of students coming in, Miller said. "It's just gotten out of control and needs to be reduced - I would say - significantly over a short period of time."

Miller said the government would introduce other measures to lower the volume of international students during the first half of this year, including a possible cap.

Canada is a popular destination for international students since it is relatively easy to obtain work permits after finishing courses.

The government intends to address "a very generous" programme for postgraduate work permits and to crack down on "fly-by-night" universities, called designated learning institutes, he said.

The government already plans curbs on the number of off-campus work hours for international students, which the food service and retail industries fear could cause labour shortages.

In 2023, the government projected that some 900,000 international students would study in Canada that year, about three times that of a decade ago. Miller said 40 per cent&nbsp;of those students - or some 360,000 - were Indian. The number of permits given to Indian students declined by four per cent&nbsp;last year, but they remained the largest group. 
&nbsp;

The number of study permits Canada issued to Indian students fell sharply late last year after India ejected Canadian diplomats who would process the permits and fewer Indian students applied due to a diplomatic dispute over the murder of a Sikh separatist leader in Canada, a top Canadian official told Reuters.

The number of study permits Canada issued to Indian students fell sharply late last year after India ejected Canadian diplomats who would process the permits and fewer Indian students applied due to a diplomatic dispute over the murder of a Sikh separatist leader in Canada, a top Canadian official told Reuters. Immigration Minister Marc Miller said in an interview that he believes the number of study permits for Indians is unlikely to rebound soon. Diplomatic tensions erupted after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in June said there was evidence connecting Indian government agents to the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. The tensions are likely to weigh on the numbers going forward, Miller said. Also Read | Houthis set to become 'global terrorists' amid Red Sea attacks. Here's what it means "Our relationship with India has really halved our ability to process a lot of applications from India," Miller said. In October, Canada was forced to pull 41 diplomats, or two-thirds of its staff, out of India on orders from New Delhi. In addition, the dispute has prompted Indian students to seek to study in other countries, a spokeswoman for the minister said. Those factors led to an 86% drop in study permits issued to Indians in the fourth quarter of last year from the previous quarter to 14,910 from 108,940, according to official data that have not been previously reported. C. Gurusubramanian, counsellor for the High Commission of India in Ottawa, said some Indian international students were looking at other options besides Canada due to "concerns, in the recent past, regarding lack of residential and adequate teaching facilities" at some Canadian institutions. Indians have formed the largest group of international students in Canada in recent years, with more than 41% - or 225,835 - of all permits going to them in 2022. Also Read | China's population declines for 2nd straight year, drops by 2.75 million to 1.409 billion in 2023 "I can't tell you about how the diplomatic relationship will evolve, particularly if police were to lay charges," Miller said. "It's not something that I see any light at the end of the tunnel on." International students are a cash cow for Canadian universities as they bring in about C$22 billion ($16.4 billion) annually and the slowdown will be a blow to the institutions. In June, Canada said there were "credible" allegations linking Indian agents to the murder of Nijjar in a Vancouver suburb. India has rejected that allegation. Canadian authorities have yet to charge anyone for the killing. Last year, the US Justice Department charged a 52-year-old man who had worked with an Indian government employee with plotting to assassinate a New York City resident who advocated for a Sikh sovereign state in northern India. Watch | Red Sea Crisis: US again strikes Yemen as Houthis attack another ship in Red Sea × The Canadian government also has been seeking to reduce the overall number of international students entering the country, in part as a response to an ongoing housing shortage. "Right now we have a challenge with the sheer volume" of students coming in, Miller said. "It's just gotten out of control and needs to be reduced - I would say - significantly over a short period of time." Miller said the government would introduce other measures to lower the volume of international students during the first half of this year, including a possible cap. Canada is a popular destination for international students since it is relatively easy to obtain work permits after finishing courses. The government intends to address "a very generous" programme for postgraduate work permits and to crack down on "fly-by-night" universities, called designated learning institutes, he said. The government already plans curbs on the number of off-campus work hours for international students, which the food service and retail industries fear could cause labour shortages. In 2023, the government projected that some 900,000 international students would study in Canada that year, about three times that of a decade ago. Miller said 40 per cent of those students - or some 360,000 - were Indian. The number of permits given to Indian students declined by four per cent last year, but they remained the largest group.

Canada minister says study permits to students from India dropped due to diplomatic tensions

Canada has long been a top destination for Indian students, but recent developments have led to an 86% decrease in Canadian study permits issued to them. This change is attributed to a diplomatic dispute between India and Canada following the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia and the subsequent removal of Canadian diplomats crucial for processing study permits from India.

Gravitas: Indian students' shift away from Canadian colleges amidst diplomatic row

According to a top Canadian official, Canada issued significantly fewer study permits to Indian students in the latter part of last year as a result of India expelling Canadian diplomats who were responsible for processing the permits and a diplomatic spat over the death of a Sikh separatist leader in Canada.

Study permits to students from India drop due to dispute: Canada minister

The Canadian government has announced that they will no longer provide any funds to sensitive scientific research if they're affiliated with foreign institutions, especially China-based universities. The Trudeau Administration has unveiled new rules aimed at preventing sensitive technological research developed in the country from being transferred to China, Iran or Russia.

Canada: No funding for research linked to foreign institutes

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his North Korean counterpart Choe Son Hui in Moscow hold a joint news conference after talks with, as the two countries deepen economic, political, and military ties. Choe arrived in Russia on Sunday (January 14). Watch to know more!

Moscow-Pyongyang relations: Lavrov holds talks with North Korean counterpart

Designated as a terrorist by India, Pannun, is once again issuing death threats from the United States ahead of India's Republic Day celebrations. According to reports, Pannun has threatened to kill Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.

Khalistan terrorist Pannun threatens to kill Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, authorities tighten security

In a quarterly survey released on Monday by the Bank of Canada (BoC), Canadian businesses are grappling with a decline in order books, largely attributed to a slump in consumer spending caused by higher interest rates. <o:p></o:p>

This is based on a report by Reuters.<o:p></o:p>

The central bank revealed that despite rising concerns over wages, firms foresee a relief in inflation over the coming year. <o:p></o:p>

Reuters cited Royce Mendes, Head of Macro Strategy at Desjardins Group, who said, "Overall, businesses and consumers are feeling the pain of higher interest rates and are responding accordingly. Consumers are curtailing spending and businesses, seeing falling sales, are tapping the brakes on hiring."<o:p></o:p>

The survey reported that 38 per cent of businesses anticipate a recession in the next year, reflecting an increase from the previous quarter. <o:p></o:p>

Similarly, 61 per cent of consumers share concerns about an impending recession, a rise from the last survey. <o:p></o:p>

Businesses, compared to a year earlier, experienced a downturn in order books, with more firms expecting wages to rise in the upcoming year. <o:p></o:p>

However, a silver lining appears as many businesses still foresee an increase in sales volumes over the next 12 months.<o:p></o:p>

The business outlook indicator, a measure of economic sentiment, showed a slight improvement in the last quarter of 2023, rising from -3.45 to -3.15. <o:p></o:p>

This shift was attributed to easing expectations for input and output prices.<o:p></o:p>

39 per cent of businesses reported a decline in sales volumes over the past year, attributing it to various factors such as slowing growth, the impact of higher interest rates, and inflation. <o:p></o:p>

The Bank of Canada raised its key policy rate to 5 per cent, a 22-year high, last year, and has maintained it since July. <o:p></o:p>

Despite the current inflation rate of 3.1 per cent, down from the 2022 peak, it has remained above the BoC's 2 per cent target since March 2021.<o:p></o:p>

According to the survey, "Firms' pricing behaviour is slowly returning to normal," indicating a potential stabilisation in the economic landscape. <o:p></o:p>

However, wage growth is expected to be higher than average in the next 12 months, often tied to cost-of-living adjustments.<o:p></o:p>

Looking ahead, 54 per cent of businesses foresee inflation running higher than 3 per cent over the next two years, while 42 per cent expect it to remain below that threshold. <o:p></o:p>

Interestingly, 27 per cent predict it will take longer than four years for inflation to return to the BoC's 2 per cent target. <o:p></o:p>

Governor Tiff Macklem, in his last public appearance of 2023, noted that short-term inflation expectations are gradually trending downward, but the persistence is expected due to wage growth and the prices of commodities, food, and housing.<o:p></o:p>

The Bank of Canada is set to make its next interest rate announcement on January 24, with expectations of maintaining the key policy rate. <o:p></o:p>

Money markets and economists, however, anticipate rate cuts in the first half of 2024. <o:p></o:p>

The dual survey approach by the central bank also revealed that consumers do not anticipate further interest rate increases in the next year.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

In a quarterly survey released on Monday by the Bank of Canada (BoC), Canadian businesses are grappling with a decline in order books, largely attributed to a slump in consumer spending caused by higher interest rates.

In a quarterly survey released on Monday by the Bank of Canada (BoC), Canadian businesses are grappling with a decline in order books, largely attributed to a slump in consumer spending caused by higher interest rates. This is based on a report by Reuters. The central bank revealed that despite rising concerns over wages, firms foresee a relief in inflation over the coming year. Reuters cited Royce Mendes, Head of Macro Strategy at Desjardins Group, who said, "Overall, businesses and consumers are feeling the pain of higher interest rates and are responding accordingly. Consumers are curtailing spending and businesses, seeing falling sales, are tapping the brakes on hiring." The survey reported that 38 per cent of businesses anticipate a recession in the next year, reflecting an increase from the previous quarter. Similarly, 61 per cent of consumers share concerns about an impending recession, a rise from the last survey. Businesses, compared to a year earlier, experienced a downturn in order books, with more firms expecting wages to rise in the upcoming year. However, a silver lining appears as many businesses still foresee an increase in sales volumes over the next 12 months. The business outlook indicator, a measure of economic sentiment, showed a slight improvement in the last quarter of 2023, rising from -3.45 to -3.15. This shift was attributed to easing expectations for input and output prices. 39 per cent of businesses reported a decline in sales volumes over the past year, attributing it to various factors such as slowing growth, the impact of higher interest rates, and inflation. The Bank of Canada raised its key policy rate to 5 per cent, a 22-year high, last year, and has maintained it since July. Despite the current inflation rate of 3.1 per cent, down from the 2022 peak, it has remained above the BoC's 2 per cent target since March 2021. According to the survey, "Firms' pricing behaviour is slowly returning to normal," indicating a potential stabilisation in the economic landscape. However, wage growth is expected to be higher than average in the next 12 months, often tied to cost-of-living adjustments. Looking ahead, 54 per cent of businesses foresee inflation running higher than 3 per cent over the next two years, while 42 per cent expect it to remain below that threshold. Interestingly, 27 per cent predict it will take longer than four years for inflation to return to the BoC's 2 per cent target. Governor Tiff Macklem, in his last public appearance of 2023, noted that short-term inflation expectations are gradually trending downward, but the persistence is expected due to wage growth and the prices of commodities, food, and housing. The Bank of Canada is set to make its next interest rate announcement on January 24, with expectations of maintaining the key policy rate. Money markets and economists, however, anticipate rate cuts in the first half of 2024. The dual survey approach by the central bank also revealed that consumers do not anticipate further interest rate increases in the next year. (With inputs from Reuters)

Canadian firms face decline in orders, inflation easing despite concerns: Central bank survey

Canada is considering putting&nbsp;a cap on the number of international students living in the country, as the housing crisis in the nation continues to deepen.&nbsp;Minister for Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Marc Miller raised concerns over the current volume of international students in the country.

In an interview with CTV News,&nbsp;Miller did not indicate how big the reduction would be if implemented but added there was a need for serious conversation.&nbsp;

"This is a conversation the federal government will need to have with provincial governments to make sure that the provinces that have not been doing their jobs actually rein in those numbers on a pure volume basis," said Miller.&nbsp;

“That volume is disconcerting. It is really a system that has gotten out of control," he added.&nbsp;

The Liberal government under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had been aiming to bring&nbsp; 485,000 immigrants to Canada in 2024 and 500,000 in both 2025 and 2026. However, the population spurt and an increase in foreign students indicate that the housing sector is nowhere near ready to house the volume.&nbsp;

Canada's population grew by more than 430,000 during the third quarter of 2023, which was the fastest in any quarter since 1957.&nbsp;

Quizzed why the government was considering the move now given the idea was floated in August last year, Miller said:&nbsp;"We need to be doing our jobs and making sure that we have a system that actually makes sure people have a financial capability to come to Canada, that we're actually verifying offer letters."

"And now it's time for us to have a conversation about volumes and the impact that that is having in certain areas."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/canada-finance-minister-acknowledges-housing-crisis-challenge-637043">Watch | Canada finance minister acknowledges housing crisis challenge</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>What does it mean for India?</h2>

The decision could have serious ramifications for Indian students who often prefer Canada as their desired choice to secure advanced degrees. As per data from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), there were&nbsp;215,910 Indian international students in Canada out of&nbsp;579,075.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/torontos-housing-desperation-half-a-bed-for-c-900-a-month-amid-soaring-prices-660985">Also read | Toronto's housing desperation: Half-a-bed for C$ 900 a month amid soaring prices</a>

Nearly half of the 32,000 tech workers who moved to Canada between April 2022 and March 2023 originated from India.&nbsp;Between July and October 2023, the Canadian government processed nearly 87,000 new study permit applications for Indian nationals, although it was 40 per cent less than the same period in 2022.

Canada remains an attractive destination for Indians but the charms might be dwindling if the current housing crisis persists and the Trudeau government is unable to commit to a solution.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Canada is considering putting a cap on the number of international students living in the country, as the housing crisis in the nation continues to deepen. Minister for Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Marc Miller raised concerns over the current volume of international students in the country.

Canada is considering putting a cap on the number of international students living in the country, as the housing crisis in the nation continues to deepen. Minister for Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Marc Miller raised concerns over the current volume of international students in the country. In an interview with CTV News, Miller did not indicate how big the reduction would be if implemented but added there was a need for serious conversation. "This is a conversation the federal government will need to have with provincial governments to make sure that the provinces that have not been doing their jobs actually rein in those numbers on a pure volume basis," said Miller. “That volume is disconcerting. It is really a system that has gotten out of control," he added. The Liberal government under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had been aiming to bring 485,000 immigrants to Canada in 2024 and 500,000 in both 2025 and 2026. However, the population spurt and an increase in foreign students indicate that the housing sector is nowhere near ready to house the volume. Canada's population grew by more than 430,000 during the third quarter of 2023, which was the fastest in any quarter since 1957. Quizzed why the government was considering the move now given the idea was floated in August last year, Miller said: "We need to be doing our jobs and making sure that we have a system that actually makes sure people have a financial capability to come to Canada, that we're actually verifying offer letters." "And now it's time for us to have a conversation about volumes and the impact that that is having in certain areas." Watch | Canada finance minister acknowledges housing crisis challenge ideo Embed Code: × What does it mean for India? The decision could have serious ramifications for Indian students who often prefer Canada as their desired choice to secure advanced degrees. As per data from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), there were 215,910 Indian international students in Canada out of 579,075. Also read | Toronto's housing desperation: Half-a-bed for C$ 900 a month amid soaring prices Nearly half of the 32,000 tech workers who moved to Canada between April 2022 and March 2023 originated from India. Between July and October 2023, the Canadian government processed nearly 87,000 new study permit applications for Indian nationals, although it was 40 per cent less than the same period in 2022. Canada remains an attractive destination for Indians but the charms might be dwindling if the current housing crisis persists and the Trudeau government is unable to commit to a solution. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada considers cap on international students amid housing crisis

Leaders of major Western countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada rejected South Africa’s case against Israel which accuses it of genocide amid the ongoing war with the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. Meanwhile, Turkey has said that it will provide documents, mostly visuals, on Israel’s attacks on Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Canada does not accept…’</h2>

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, on Friday (Jan 12) said that he&nbsp;does not accept South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) which accuses Israel of committing genocide in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

When asked by reporters during a recent press conference, the Canadian PM said that Ottawa is a strong backer of the United Nation’s top court but “that does not mean that we support the premise of the case brought forward by South Africa.”

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Israel Genocide Trial: Pro-Israel and pro-Palestine protests break outside ICJ building

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Notably, Trudeau has come under criticism as he initially backed Israel’s right to defend itself but later changed his tune amid the mounting death toll in Gaza.&nbsp;

“He sends out some of his MPs (Members of Parliament) to claim that they support calling Israel genocidal when they’re talking to one group of voters. And then he sends out another group to say that they’re against calling Israel genocidal,” said Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Completely unjustified and wrong’</h2>

A spokesperson for the UK PM Rishi Sunak said that Sunak believed South Africa’s case against Israel was “completely unjustified and wrong.” He added, “The UK government stands by Israel’s clear right to defend itself within the framework of international law.”&nbsp;

<h2>Germany to intervene in ICJ case?</h2>

In what can be seen as the strongest show of support for Israel, aside from the United States the German government, on Friday (Jan 12), said that it is planning to intervene in the ongoing genocide case at the World Court.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-rebuffs-genocide-charges-calls-south-africas-allegations-baseless-679474">Israel rebuffs genocide charges by South Africa, calls allegations 'baseless'</a>

“German government firmly and explicitly rejects the accusation of genocide that has now been made against Israel before the International Court of Justice. This accusation has no basis whatsoever,” said spokesman Steffen Hebestreit in a statement.&nbsp;

Berlin would be able to intervene in the proceedings at The Hague in line with an article which allows states to seek clarification on the use of a multilateral convention. Hebestreit said Israel was “defending itself” after the “inhuman” attacks by Hamas on October 7.&nbsp;

“In view of Germany’s history, crimes against humanity, and Shoah the government is particularly committed to the UN Genocide Convention,” Hebestreit said.

He added, “The German government supports the International Court of Justice in its work, as it has done for many decades. The government intends to intervene as a third party in the main hearing.”&nbsp;

<h2>South Africa’s claims are ‘unfounded’</h2>

US State Department spokesman Vedant Patel, on Thursday (Jan 11) after South Africa’s representatives had presented their case said, “That is not a characterisation that I would make from up here about our South African partners.”&nbsp;

He added, “The allegation that Israel is committing genocide is unfounded.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-reacts-to-genocide-accusations-calls-south-africa-legal-arm-of-hamas-679055">&nbsp;Israel reacts to genocide accusations at UN court hearing, calls South Africa 'legal arm' of Hamas</a>

Similarly, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby also called the genocide allegations “unfounded,” saying that it is not a word “that ought to be thrown around lightly, and we certainly don’t believe that it applies here.”&nbsp;

<h2>Turkey to provide documents</h2>

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on Friday told reporters in Istanbul that Turkey would continue to provide documents, mostly visuals, on Israel’s attacks on Gaza. “I believe Israel will be convicted there. We believe in the justice of the International Court of Justice,” said Erdogan.&nbsp;

<h2>South Africa’s case</h2>

South Africa launched an emergency case at the ICJ accusing Israel of violating the UN Genocide Convention which was signed in 1948 in the wake of the Holocaust.&nbsp;

Pretoria seeks a judgement where Israel is ordered to “immediately” halt its ongoing counteroffensive in Gaza. Israel has dismissed the case as “atrocious” and “preposterous” and even called South Africa a “legal arm” of Hamas.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Leaders of major Western countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada rejected South Africa’s case against Israel which accuses it of genocide amid the ongoing war with the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.

Leaders of major Western countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada rejected South Africa’s case against Israel which accuses it of genocide amid the ongoing war with the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. Meanwhile, Turkey has said that it will provide documents, mostly visuals, on Israel’s attacks on Gaza. ‘Canada does not accept…’ Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, on Friday (Jan 12) said that he does not accept South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) which accuses Israel of committing genocide in the Gaza Strip. When asked by reporters during a recent press conference, the Canadian PM said that Ottawa is a strong backer of the United Nation’s top court but “that does not mean that we support the premise of the case brought forward by South Africa.” ALSO WATCH | Israel Genocide Trial: Pro-Israel and pro-Palestine protests break outside ICJ building Notably, Trudeau has come under criticism as he initially backed Israel’s right to defend itself but later changed his tune amid the mounting death toll in Gaza. “He sends out some of his MPs (Members of Parliament) to claim that they support calling Israel genocidal when they’re talking to one group of voters. And then he sends out another group to say that they’re against calling Israel genocidal,” said Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre. ‘Completely unjustified and wrong’ A spokesperson for the UK PM Rishi Sunak said that Sunak believed South Africa’s case against Israel was “completely unjustified and wrong.” He added, “The UK government stands by Israel’s clear right to defend itself within the framework of international law.” Germany to intervene in ICJ case? In what can be seen as the strongest show of support for Israel, aside from the United States the German government, on Friday (Jan 12), said that it is planning to intervene in the ongoing genocide case at the World Court. ALSO READ | Israel rebuffs genocide charges by South Africa, calls allegations 'baseless' “German government firmly and explicitly rejects the accusation of genocide that has now been made against Israel before the International Court of Justice. This accusation has no basis whatsoever,” said spokesman Steffen Hebestreit in a statement. Berlin would be able to intervene in the proceedings at The Hague in line with an article which allows states to seek clarification on the use of a multilateral convention. Hebestreit said Israel was “defending itself” after the “inhuman” attacks by Hamas on October 7. “In view of Germany’s history, crimes against humanity, and Shoah the government is particularly committed to the UN Genocide Convention,” Hebestreit said. He added, “The German government supports the International Court of Justice in its work, as it has done for many decades. The government intends to intervene as a third party in the main hearing.” South Africa’s claims are ‘unfounded’ US State Department spokesman Vedant Patel, on Thursday (Jan 11) after South Africa’s representatives had presented their case said, “That is not a characterisation that I would make from up here about our South African partners.” He added, “The allegation that Israel is committing genocide is unfounded.” ALSO READ | Israel reacts to genocide accusations at UN court hearing, calls South Africa 'legal arm' of Hamas Similarly, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby also called the genocide allegations “unfounded,” saying that it is not a word “that ought to be thrown around lightly, and we certainly don’t believe that it applies here.” Turkey to provide documents Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on Friday told reporters in Istanbul that Turkey would continue to provide documents, mostly visuals, on Israel’s attacks on Gaza. “I believe Israel will be convicted there. We believe in the justice of the International Court of Justice,” said Erdogan. South Africa’s case South Africa launched an emergency case at the ICJ accusing Israel of violating the UN Genocide Convention which was signed in 1948 in the wake of the Holocaust. Pretoria seeks a judgement where Israel is ordered to “immediately” halt its ongoing counteroffensive in Gaza. Israel has dismissed the case as “atrocious” and “preposterous” and even called South Africa a “legal arm” of Hamas. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel ‘genocide’ case: Western countries reject S. Africa’s charges; Turkey to provide documents

US sees India as a strategic partner but in the alleged plot to murder Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in the US Washington is now urging new delhi that those behind the murder plot of the Khalistani terrorist need to be held accountable.

Nikhil Gupta accused of allegedly plotting Khalistani terrorist killing | WION Newspoint

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