Soon after YouTuber Ruby Franke pleaded guilty to four counts of child abuse on Monday (Dec 18), her chilling torture strategies for kids emerged which left the world shocked. Speaking in the court, she had said, “With my deepest regret and sorrow for my family and my children, guilty." She will face sentence in January 2024. &nbsp;

In August, Franke and her podcasting partner Jodi Hildebrandt were arrested after their 12-year-old son allegedly escaped Hildebrandt’s home. After running from home, he went begging for food and water in the neighbourhood. Seeing his condition, a neighbour called 911 and reported to them that the boy looked "emaciated" and was "covered in wounds,” reported ABC News.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-ruby-franke-know-early-life-career-net-worth-of-youtuber-arrested-over-child-abuse-631193">Who is Ruby Franke? Know about early life, career &amp; net worth of YouTuber arrested over child abuse</a>

Franke and her husband Kevin had gained popularity by running a YouTube channel called "8Passengers". Through their channel, they showed their strict parenting style. After the arrest of Franke, the channel, which had nearly two million followers, had to be closed.

After Franke pleaded guilty, chilling details of her children being abused by her emerged.

<h2>Ruby Franke told her kids they are 'possessed, evil'&nbsp;</h2>

Franke's children, especially her minor son and daughter, went through tough times as she inflicted pain on them by her heinous actions from May 22, 2023, to August 30, 2023, in Washington County, Utah. As per reports, she emotionally abused her children by saying to them that they needed to be punished as they were possessed and evil.

The son was forced by his mother to carry out strenuous physical tasks for long durations. He was asked to perform outdoor labour without wearing shoes when the scorching sun was blazing overhead. He was also asked to carry heavy loads of books and perform wall-sits. Ruby Franke also deprived her son of water and gave him punishment when he tried to hydrate himself secretly. &nbsp;She also gave him insufficient food while others continued enjoying wholesome meals.

Watch:&nbsp;Former US President barred from Colorado ballot&nbsp;

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She had isolated her son and not provided him with access to books, notebooks, and electronics. In July, she kept his hands and feet regularly bound after he made an attempt to escape. She treated the wounds on his wrists and ankles with "homoeopathic remedies" and covered them using duct tape. It has also been reported that Ruby Franke kicked her son while wearing boots, and pushed his head underwater to cut off the supply of oxygen.

As per the guilty plea, the youngest daughter of Franke was also put through "severe emotional harm", reported The Mirror. She also underwent physical tasks and outdoor exposure and was denied food and water. The daughter was made to walk barefoot in the summer heat and run barefoot on dirty roads for long durations. As per the report, the girl had sustained scabs, blisters, and sloughing skin.

(With inputs from agencies)

Soon after YouTuber Ruby Franke pleaded guilty to four counts of child abuse on Monday (Dec 18), her chilling torture strategies for kids emerged which left the world shocked.

Soon after YouTuber Ruby Franke pleaded guilty to four counts of child abuse on Monday (Dec 18), her chilling torture strategies for kids emerged which left the world shocked. Speaking in the court, she had said, “With my deepest regret and sorrow for my family and my children, guilty." She will face sentence in January 2024. In August, Franke and her podcasting partner Jodi Hildebrandt were arrested after their 12-year-old son allegedly escaped Hildebrandt’s home. After running from home, he went begging for food and water in the neighbourhood. Seeing his condition, a neighbour called 911 and reported to them that the boy looked "emaciated" and was "covered in wounds,” reported ABC News. Also read: Who is Ruby Franke? Know about early life, career & net worth of YouTuber arrested over child abuse Franke and her husband Kevin had gained popularity by running a YouTube channel called "8Passengers". Through their channel, they showed their strict parenting style. After the arrest of Franke, the channel, which had nearly two million followers, had to be closed. After Franke pleaded guilty, chilling details of her children being abused by her emerged. Ruby Franke told her kids they are 'possessed, evil' Franke's children, especially her minor son and daughter, went through tough times as she inflicted pain on them by her heinous actions from May 22, 2023, to August 30, 2023, in Washington County, Utah. As per reports, she emotionally abused her children by saying to them that they needed to be punished as they were possessed and evil. The son was forced by his mother to carry out strenuous physical tasks for long durations. He was asked to perform outdoor labour without wearing shoes when the scorching sun was blazing overhead. He was also asked to carry heavy loads of books and perform wall-sits. Ruby Franke also deprived her son of water and gave him punishment when he tried to hydrate himself secretly. She also gave him insufficient food while others continued enjoying wholesome meals. Watch: Former US President barred from Colorado ballot She had isolated her son and not provided him with access to books, notebooks, and electronics. In July, she kept his hands and feet regularly bound after he made an attempt to escape. She treated the wounds on his wrists and ankles with "homoeopathic remedies" and covered them using duct tape. It has also been reported that Ruby Franke kicked her son while wearing boots, and pushed his head underwater to cut off the supply of oxygen. As per the guilty plea, the youngest daughter of Franke was also put through "severe emotional harm", reported The Mirror. She also underwent physical tasks and outdoor exposure and was denied food and water. The daughter was made to walk barefoot in the summer heat and run barefoot on dirty roads for long durations. As per the report, the girl had sustained scabs, blisters, and sloughing skin. (With inputs from agencies)

No food, strenuous tasks: Chilling details of Ruby Franke’s torture strategies for her kids emerge

Ruby Franke, a mother of six, who gave parenting advice on a once popular YouTube channel called "8 Passengers" in the US state of Utah has pleaded guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse, on Monday (Dec 18). The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-ruby-franke-know-early-life-career-net-worth-of-youtuber-arrested-over-child-abuse-631193">41-year-old woman</a> reportedly convinced her two youngest children they were evil and possessed and needed to be punished to repent.

<h2>What happened in court?</h2>

Franke was originally charged with six counts of child abuse in September and has pleaded not guilty to two other counts, reported the Associated Press citing court records.&nbsp;

The 41-year-old former YouTuber faced accusations of starving and abusing her children after one of her sons managed to escape her former business partner’s home in Utah.&nbsp;

Franke, who once had over two million subscribers for her parenting vlog, appeared in court and pleaded guilty to each of the first three charges individually. On the fourth one, she said, “With my deepest regret and sorrow for my family and my children, guilty”.&nbsp;

Judge John Watson, who is presiding over the case, has scheduled sentencing for February 20, 2024. In line with the plea deal, prosecutors left sentencing exclusively up to the judge, said Franke’s attorney.

According to Utah law, second-degree aggravated child abuse can be charged if that person knowingly or intentionally inflicts serious physical injury to a child or causes or permits another to inflict serious physical injury to their child. Each of these charges carries 15 years in prison.&nbsp;

Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this story disturbing. Discretion is advised.

<h2>About the case</h2>

The 41-year-old was arrested in August at the house of her former business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, 54. During the hearing on Monday, new details of the abuse the children endured emerged including claims that they were told that they are possessed.&nbsp;

Winward Law, in a statement, said that the abuse occurred while Franke was influenced by a relationship counsellor, Hildebrandt, who led her to “a distorted sense of morality” and called the 41-year-old <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/youtuber-ruby-franke-arrested-for-child-abuse-after-malnourished-kid-found-631029">“a devoted mother”</a>.&nbsp;

In August, Franke’s 12-year-old son escaped Hildebrandt’s house and told officers the 54-year-old had put ropes on his ankles and wrists, according to court documents.&nbsp;

The officials, at the time, said the boy had to be taken to the hospital “due to his deep lacerations from being tied up with rope and from his malnourishment”.&nbsp;

They later found Franke’s daughter, who was also malnourished, and took her to the hospital. Eventually, four of her children were placed in state custody.&nbsp;

The 41-year-old has admitted to torturing her 12-year-old son for months with hours of physical tasks, outdoor work during summers without enough water and “repeated and serious sunburns”. Her son was denied food or given very plain meals and was isolated from other people.&nbsp;

She reportedly restricted her son’s access to books, notebooks or electronics, and also kicked him while wearing boots, held his head under water and smothered his mouth and nose with her hands, reported the AP citing the plea agreement.

“He was also told that everything that was being done to him were acts of love,” the agreement stated. Franke also acknowledged similarly abusing her nine-year-old daughter.&nbsp;“She was also repeatedly told she was evil and possessed, the punishments were necessary for her to be obedient and repent,"&nbsp;the plea agreement said, adding that the girl was "convinced".&nbsp;

Both Franke and Hildebrandt have been arrested and charged with six felony counts of aggravated child abuse and remained jailed since their arrests.

The Franke family was criticised online for their vlogs for showing several of their appalling parenting decisions. Ruby’s husband, Kevin Franke, has since filed for divorce.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ruby Franke, a mother of six, who gave parenting advice on a once popular YouTube channel called "8 Passengers" in the US state of Utah has pleaded guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse, on Monday (Dec 18).

Ruby Franke, a mother of six, who gave parenting advice on a once popular YouTube channel called "8 Passengers" in the US state of Utah has pleaded guilty to four counts of aggravated child abuse, on Monday (Dec 18). The 41-year-old woman reportedly convinced her two youngest children they were evil and possessed and needed to be punished to repent. What happened in court? Franke was originally charged with six counts of child abuse in September and has pleaded not guilty to two other counts, reported the Associated Press citing court records. The 41-year-old former YouTuber faced accusations of starving and abusing her children after one of her sons managed to escape her former business partner’s home in Utah. Franke, who once had over two million subscribers for her parenting vlog, appeared in court and pleaded guilty to each of the first three charges individually. On the fourth one, she said, “With my deepest regret and sorrow for my family and my children, guilty”. Judge John Watson, who is presiding over the case, has scheduled sentencing for February 20, 2024. In line with the plea deal, prosecutors left sentencing exclusively up to the judge, said Franke’s attorney. According to Utah law, second-degree aggravated child abuse can be charged if that person knowingly or intentionally inflicts serious physical injury to a child or causes or permits another to inflict serious physical injury to their child. Each of these charges carries 15 years in prison. Trigger warning: Some readers may find the details of this story disturbing. Discretion is advised. About the case The 41-year-old was arrested in August at the house of her former business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, 54. During the hearing on Monday, new details of the abuse the children endured emerged including claims that they were told that they are possessed. Winward Law, in a statement, said that the abuse occurred while Franke was influenced by a relationship counsellor, Hildebrandt, who led her to “a distorted sense of morality” and called the 41-year-old “a devoted mother”. In August, Franke’s 12-year-old son escaped Hildebrandt’s house and told officers the 54-year-old had put ropes on his ankles and wrists, according to court documents. The officials, at the time, said the boy had to be taken to the hospital “due to his deep lacerations from being tied up with rope and from his malnourishment”. They later found Franke’s daughter, who was also malnourished, and took her to the hospital. Eventually, four of her children were placed in state custody. The 41-year-old has admitted to torturing her 12-year-old son for months with hours of physical tasks, outdoor work during summers without enough water and “repeated and serious sunburns”. Her son was denied food or given very plain meals and was isolated from other people. She reportedly restricted her son’s access to books, notebooks or electronics, and also kicked him while wearing boots, held his head under water and smothered his mouth and nose with her hands, reported the AP citing the plea agreement. “He was also told that everything that was being done to him were acts of love,” the agreement stated. Franke also acknowledged similarly abusing her nine-year-old daughter. “She was also repeatedly told she was evil and possessed, the punishments were necessary for her to be obedient and repent," the plea agreement said, adding that the girl was "convinced". Both Franke and Hildebrandt have been arrested and charged with six felony counts of aggravated child abuse and remained jailed since their arrests. The Franke family was criticised online for their vlogs for showing several of their appalling parenting decisions. Ruby’s husband, Kevin Franke, has since filed for divorce. (With inputs from agencies)

Ruby Franke, mother of six and parenting advice YouTuber, pleads guilty to child abuse

A 13-year-old from Ohio plotted a mass shooting of a synagogue. A 12-year-old from France threatened to kill her English teacher with a knife. Federal data shows crime among juveniles has soared to record highs. What is driving children to crime?

Gravitas | Stabbing, killings, mass shootings: What is driving children to crime?

Trigger warning: The story contains graphic details of the signs of brutal violence. Discretion is advised.&nbsp;

Pakistan Police on Thursday (Dec 14) arrested a person for killing children and eating their flesh at Muzaffargarh in Punjab province, about 440 km southeast of provincial capital Lahore.&nbsp;

According to a report in Pakistan's ARY News, three children were kidnapped from Muzaffargarh's Khar Garh area last week.&nbsp;

The accused reportedly murdered the two of those three children and ate their flesh. A seven-year-old child named Ali Hassan survived the ordeal.&nbsp;

According to ARY news, Ali Hassan told police that after slaughtering three-year-old Abdullah and his one-and-a-half-year-old sister Hafsa, the man cooked and ate their flesh.

The report by ARY News added that the man also distributed the human flesh at a local dargah by passing it off as animal meat.&nbsp;

The local police has recovered the remains of Abdullah and the knives from the field but the search to find Hafsa continues.&nbsp;

The arrested suspect is currently in critical condition in the hospital, and further revelations about the brutal murders will be made once he regains consciousness, ARY News reported.

A case was also registered against the arrested suspect for murder and terrorism on a complaint by the father of the missing children.

Fayyaz, the father of the minor victims, also demanded strict action against the accused, ARY News reported.

<h2>Flashback from India's Nithari horror</h2>

The row is reminiscent of the 2006 Noida serial murders, also called Nithari serial murders or Nithari case.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nithari-killings-2006-how-reports-of-cannibalism-rapes-and-gory-murders-unfolded-647582">Nithari killings 2006: How reports of cannibalism, rapes and gory murders unfolded</a>

The Nithari case involved a string of gruesome murders of at least 19 children as well as the incidents of sexual abuse that took place in Noida, near Delhi. The convicts in the row lured children to a house in an upscale locality with promises of sweets and chocolates, only to subject them to sexual abuse and murder.

(With inputs from agencies)

Trigger warning: The story contains graphic details of the signs of brutal violence. Discretion is advised. Pakistan Police on Thursday (Dec 14) arrested a person for killing children and eating their flesh at Muzaffargarh in Punjab province, about 440 km southeast of provincial capital Lahore.

Trigger warning: The story contains graphic details of the signs of brutal violence. Discretion is advised. Pakistan Police on Thursday (Dec 14) arrested a person for killing children and eating their flesh at Muzaffargarh in Punjab province, about 440 km southeast of provincial capital Lahore. According to a report in Pakistan's ARY News, three children were kidnapped from Muzaffargarh's Khar Garh area last week. The accused reportedly murdered the two of those three children and ate their flesh. A seven-year-old child named Ali Hassan survived the ordeal. According to ARY news, Ali Hassan told police that after slaughtering three-year-old Abdullah and his one-and-a-half-year-old sister Hafsa, the man cooked and ate their flesh. The report by ARY News added that the man also distributed the human flesh at a local dargah by passing it off as animal meat. The local police has recovered the remains of Abdullah and the knives from the field but the search to find Hafsa continues. The arrested suspect is currently in critical condition in the hospital, and further revelations about the brutal murders will be made once he regains consciousness, ARY News reported. A case was also registered against the arrested suspect for murder and terrorism on a complaint by the father of the missing children. Fayyaz, the father of the minor victims, also demanded strict action against the accused, ARY News reported. Flashback from India's Nithari horror The row is reminiscent of the 2006 Noida serial murders, also called Nithari serial murders or Nithari case. Also read | Nithari killings 2006: How reports of cannibalism, rapes and gory murders unfolded The Nithari case involved a string of gruesome murders of at least 19 children as well as the incidents of sexual abuse that took place in Noida, near Delhi. The convicts in the row lured children to a house in an upscale locality with promises of sweets and chocolates, only to subject them to sexual abuse and murder. (With inputs from agencies)

Trigger warning: Pakistani man arrested for butchering children, eating their flesh

The Dutch government issued a warning to people to ask their pets and children to stop swallowing foam at the seaside after a study revealed that “forever chemicals” were present in concentrated amounts in the spume. 
 
After research was conducted into foam collected at the Belgian seaside, it showed a concentration of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) – which are widely used for their waterproofing qualities but are difficult to destroy. 
 
The coast in Zeeland and north and south Holland in April and August was measured by the Dutch public health institute RIVM. 
 
It was also discovered that the sea foam present at popular Dutch resorts, which include Egmond, Katwijk, Scheveningen, Texel and Zandvoort, had comparable levels of PFAS to Belgium.

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However, the sea foam – which was collected by the Flemish Institute for Technological Research in one of the samples from the Belgian resort of Knokke – had “very high concentrations” of polyfluoroalkyl substances.

<h2>PFAS' toxic effects on human immune system</h2>

PFAS synthetic chemicals have been related to the toxic effects on the human immune system, risks for wildlife, certain types of cancers and fertility issues. 
 
In a parliamentary briefing on Tuesday (Dec 12), Minister of Water Management Mark Harber said, “It is sensible to have a shower after swimming, wash your hands before eating, and not to let children and pets swallow any sea foam.” 
 
“The RIVM has previously established that people in the Netherlands are already too exposed to PFAS. A large amount comes from food and drinking water. Every route through which people ingest more PFAS is undesirable, including via sea foam,” he added.

Watch:&nbsp;Dutch Election Committee officially confirms Geert Wilders win

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He said that no measures were required related to sea swimming since the water levels were “a lot lower”. In a press release, the RIVM said that it was unclear what the chemicals in foam meant “for the health of … swimmers, surfers, or people walking on the beach” because of a lack of data on acceptable risk levels. 
 
As per the Dutch study, which has measured foam where available, “just as much if not more PFAS occur in Dutch sea foam as have been measured in Flemish sea foam, with the exception of one sample from Knokke in which very high PFAS concentrations were found”. 
 
PFAS have been used in everything, from cosmetics and waterproof clothing to&nbsp;firefighting foam and pizza boxes.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Dutch government issued a warning to people to ask their pets and children to stop swallowing foam at the seaside after a study revealed that “forever chemicals” were present in concentrated amounts in the spume.

The Dutch government issued a warning to people to ask their pets and children to stop swallowing foam at the seaside after a study revealed that “forever chemicals” were present in concentrated amounts in the spume. After research was conducted into foam collected at the Belgian seaside, it showed a concentration of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) – which are widely used for their waterproofing qualities but are difficult to destroy. The coast in Zeeland and north and south Holland in April and August was measured by the Dutch public health institute RIVM. It was also discovered that the sea foam present at popular Dutch resorts, which include Egmond, Katwijk, Scheveningen, Texel and Zandvoort, had comparable levels of PFAS to Belgium. Also read: Explained | Why has Geert Wilders' victory in Dutch poll shocked Muslim citizens? However, the sea foam – which was collected by the Flemish Institute for Technological Research in one of the samples from the Belgian resort of Knokke – had “very high concentrations” of polyfluoroalkyl substances. PFAS' toxic effects on human immune system PFAS synthetic chemicals have been related to the toxic effects on the human immune system, risks for wildlife, certain types of cancers and fertility issues. In a parliamentary briefing on Tuesday (Dec 12), Minister of Water Management Mark Harber said, “It is sensible to have a shower after swimming, wash your hands before eating, and not to let children and pets swallow any sea foam.” “The RIVM has previously established that people in the Netherlands are already too exposed to PFAS. A large amount comes from food and drinking water. Every route through which people ingest more PFAS is undesirable, including via sea foam,” he added. Watch: Dutch Election Committee officially confirms Geert Wilders win He said that no measures were required related to sea swimming since the water levels were “a lot lower”. In a press release, the RIVM said that it was unclear what the chemicals in foam meant “for the health of … swimmers, surfers, or people walking on the beach” because of a lack of data on acceptable risk levels. As per the Dutch study, which has measured foam where available, “just as much if not more PFAS occur in Dutch sea foam as have been measured in Flemish sea foam, with the exception of one sample from Knokke in which very high PFAS concentrations were found”. PFAS have been used in everything, from cosmetics and waterproof clothing to firefighting foam and pizza boxes. (With inputs from agencies)

Dutch government asks children to stop swallowing sea foam amid PFAS concerns

Many children have reportedly gone missing in Maharashtra recently, media reports revealed shocking details. As many as eight children have been traced by Navi Mumbai police within 24 hours, police said on Tuesday (Dec 5).&nbsp;

As reported by news agencies, the children had gone missing in separate cases on Monday from the Navi Mumbai area.&nbsp;

They included a 12-year-old boy who had gone missing from Koparkhairane, a 13-year-old girl from Rabale, and another girl of the same age who went missing from Kamothe and who was found in Gujarat.&nbsp;Two girls aged 12 and 14 had gone missing from Kalamboli police station area.&nbsp;

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The police have informed that the boy who went missing from the Koparkhairne area on Monday was traced to Thane railway station. He was reunited with his family.&nbsp;

The official confirmed that the authorities have registered cases of kidnapping at the respective police stations. They are saying that extensive efforts are underway to locate and rescue the missing children.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi's chilling murder caught on camera&nbsp;

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<h2>Report on crime data in India&nbsp;</h2>

In a recent report by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) titled "Crime in India 2022", it mentioned that the crimes against women, children, senior citizens, Scheduled Castes (SC), and Scheduled Tribes (ST) rose by 4%, 8.7%, 9.3%, 13.1%, and 14.3% respectively.&nbsp;

The data revealed that economic offences increased by 11.1%, corruption by 10.5% and cyber crimes by 24.4% in 2022. The report is based on data collected from 36 states and Union territories as well as central agencies.&nbsp;

The report said that as many as 1,62,449 cases of crimes against children were registered during 2022, the figure showed an increase of 8.7% (1,49,404 cases) compared to 2021.&nbsp;

The report stated that a majority of these cases related to kidnapping and abduction (45.7%) and 39.7% were filed under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Many children have reportedly gone missing in Maharashtra recently, media reports revealed shocking details. As many as eight children have been traced by Navi Mumbai police within 24 hours, police said on Tuesday (Dec 5).

Many children have reportedly gone missing in Maharashtra recently, media reports revealed shocking details. As many as eight children have been traced by Navi Mumbai police within 24 hours, police said on Tuesday (Dec 5). As reported by news agencies, the children had gone missing in separate cases on Monday from the Navi Mumbai area. They included a 12-year-old boy who had gone missing from Koparkhairane, a 13-year-old girl from Rabale, and another girl of the same age who went missing from Kamothe and who was found in Gujarat. Two girls aged 12 and 14 had gone missing from Kalamboli police station area. Also read: Man pushed from moving car, dragged 25 kilometres in shocking Indian highway incident The police have informed that the boy who went missing from the Koparkhairne area on Monday was traced to Thane railway station. He was reunited with his family. The official confirmed that the authorities have registered cases of kidnapping at the respective police stations. They are saying that extensive efforts are underway to locate and rescue the missing children. Watch: Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi's chilling murder caught on camera × Also read: Kerala High Court denies permission to abort 30-week foetus of pregnant 14-year old Report on crime data in India In a recent report by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) titled "Crime in India 2022", it mentioned that the crimes against women, children, senior citizens, Scheduled Castes (SC), and Scheduled Tribes (ST) rose by 4%, 8.7%, 9.3%, 13.1%, and 14.3% respectively. The data revealed that economic offences increased by 11.1%, corruption by 10.5% and cyber crimes by 24.4% in 2022. The report is based on data collected from 36 states and Union territories as well as central agencies. The report said that as many as 1,62,449 cases of crimes against children were registered during 2022, the figure showed an increase of 8.7% (1,49,404 cases) compared to 2021. The report stated that a majority of these cases related to kidnapping and abduction (45.7%) and 39.7% were filed under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act. (With inputs from agencies)

Children go missing from parts of Navi Mumbai in 24 hours, police register cases

On Wednesday (Dec 6), the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) released a disturbing report on the state of poverty among children globally.&nbsp;

More than one in five, or around 69 million children, live in poverty, that too just in the world's 40 richest countries.

<h2>A childhood spent in poverty</h2>

The high numbers, as per AFP, are despite an around 8 per cent drop in child poverty rates from 2012 to 2014 and 2019 to 2021. The drop was witnessed in the 40 European Union and Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries assessed.&nbsp;

Despite that, at the end of 2021, more than 69 million were still living in poverty in those countries, as per the report.

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As per UNICEF Innocenti, the United Nations agency's research arm, "This is equivalent to around 6 million children out of a total child population of 291 million."

"For most children, this means that they may grow up without enough nutritious food, clothes, school supplies or a warm place to call home," said Bo Viktor Nylund of UNICEF Innocenti.

Highlighting the impact of such struggles on young people's physical and mental health, the report called for action to ensure children's well-being. Evoking political will, it stressed that children aren't automatically lifted out of poverty by a country's wealth.

<h2>Main observations</h2>

The data, as per AFP, is based on relative poverty — around 60 per cent of a country's national median income — which is often used by developed countries to establish their poverty levels.

Blasting Britain and France for their particularly bad standings, UNICEF reported that since 2012, the biggest setbacks have been witnessed in the richest countries. While in Britain there were half a million or 19.6 per cent more poor children, in France the numbers increased by 10.4 per cent.

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As per the report, in the European Union, children of non-EU nationality parents are 2.4 times more likely to live in poverty.

While the United States saw a 6.7 per cent decrease in the number of children living in poverty, it still means that one in four children continues to live in relative poverty.&nbsp;

There was a greater risk of poverty among children from single-parent families and minority backgrounds. Among the minorities in the US, 30 per cent of African American children and 29 per cent of Native American children live below the national poverty line. In comparison, only 10 per cent or one-in-10 non-Hispanic white children face the hardships that come with being poor.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

On Wednesday (Dec 6), the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) released a disturbing report on the state of poverty among children globally.

On Wednesday (Dec 6), the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) released a disturbing report on the state of poverty among children globally. More than one in five, or around 69 million children, live in poverty, that too just in the world's 40 richest countries. A childhood spent in poverty The high numbers, as per AFP, are despite an around 8 per cent drop in child poverty rates from 2012 to 2014 and 2019 to 2021. The drop was witnessed in the 40 European Union and Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries assessed. Despite that, at the end of 2021, more than 69 million were still living in poverty in those countries, as per the report. Also read | AI paints shocking picture of the future of homelessness in Canada As per UNICEF Innocenti, the United Nations agency's research arm, "This is equivalent to around 6 million children out of a total child population of 291 million." "For most children, this means that they may grow up without enough nutritious food, clothes, school supplies or a warm place to call home," said Bo Viktor Nylund of UNICEF Innocenti. Highlighting the impact of such struggles on young people's physical and mental health, the report called for action to ensure children's well-being. Evoking political will, it stressed that children aren't automatically lifted out of poverty by a country's wealth. Main observations The data, as per AFP, is based on relative poverty — around 60 per cent of a country's national median income — which is often used by developed countries to establish their poverty levels. Blasting Britain and France for their particularly bad standings, UNICEF reported that since 2012, the biggest setbacks have been witnessed in the richest countries. While in Britain there were half a million or 19.6 per cent more poor children, in France the numbers increased by 10.4 per cent. Also read | Watch: In this Japanese restaurant, people pay not for food, but to get slapped for just $2 As per the report, in the European Union, children of non-EU nationality parents are 2.4 times more likely to live in poverty. While the United States saw a 6.7 per cent decrease in the number of children living in poverty, it still means that one in four children continues to live in relative poverty. There was a greater risk of poverty among children from single-parent families and minority backgrounds. Among the minorities in the US, 30 per cent of African American children and 29 per cent of Native American children live below the national poverty line. In comparison, only 10 per cent or one-in-10 non-Hispanic white children face the hardships that come with being poor.

69 million children in 'rich' countries living in poverty: UNICEF

A mystery pneumonia is spreading across China. Beijing claims that there is no novel virus, instead, the infections are from known viruses, and bacteria. Children have now begun falling sick in the U.S. and the Netherlands. In Denmark, the number of pediatric pneumonia has crossed the epidemic mark.

China mystery pneumonia: Children fall sick in Denmark, US, Netherlands

The spike in chinese respiratory illness cases have become global issue. World Health Organization asked China for more information, citing a report on clusters of undiagnosed pneumonia in children by the program for monitoring emerging diseases. After that Denmark have also reported outbreaks of Mycoplasma Pneumonia. Watch this report to know how the disease is on the rise in the US

Pneumonia outbreak in children in US

Russian President Vladimir Putin has appealed to the country's women to give birth to as many as eight children and make it a “norm” to create large families. 
 
He made the statement while speaking at the World Russian People's Council in Moscow on Tuesday (Nov 28).

The birth rate in Russia has been declining since the 1990s and the country has recorded more than 300,000 casualties in the Ukraine war, as per a report published by The Independent. 
 
In the speech, Putin said boosting the country's population will be "our goal for the coming decades". 
 
"Many of our ethnic groups have preserved the tradition of having strong multigenerational families with four, five, or even more children. Let us remember that Russian families, many of our grandmothers and great-grandmothers had seven, eight, or even more children," said Putin, while addressing the council through a video link.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-imposes-ban-on-international-lgbt-movement-claims-it-to-be-extremist-group-664803">Russia imposes ban on 'international LGBT movement', terming it 'extremist group'</a>

"Let us preserve and revive these excellent traditions. Large families must become the norm, a way of life for all Russia's peoples. The family is not just the foundation of the state and society, it is a spiritual phenomenon, a source of morality," he said. 
 
The entire speech was uploaded on the official website of the Russian president. 
 
"Preserving and increasing the population of Russia is our goal for the coming decades and even generations ahead. This is the future of the Russian world, the millennium-old, eternal Russia," Putin said.

<h2>Putin's comment linked to massive casualties suffered in war?</h2>

Head of Russia's Orthodox Church Patriarch Kirill organised the conference and the representatives of many traditional organisations of Russia attended it, said The Independent. 
 
Though the comments of the Russian president did not directly refer to the massive casualties suffered by the Russian Army in the war against Ukraine, many media outlets have linked the statement to the loss borne in the conflict.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Russia deploys in Kherson region: British Intelligence

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UK defence ministry had estimated the death toll from Ukraine war at more than 300,000.

 
As per a report by independent Russian policy group Re:Russia, nearly 820,000-920,000 people have till now fled the country. 
 
The country is also dealing severe shortage of workforce and there has economic slowdown because of the sanctions imposed by the West, in retaliation to the war waged by Russia against Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin has appealed to the country's women to give birth to as many as eight children and make it a “norm” to create large families. He made the statement while speaking at the World Russian People's Council in Moscow on Tuesday (Nov 28).

Russian President Vladimir Putin has appealed to the country's women to give birth to as many as eight children and make it a “norm” to create large families. He made the statement while speaking at the World Russian People's Council in Moscow on Tuesday (Nov 28). The birth rate in Russia has been declining since the 1990s and the country has recorded more than 300,000 casualties in the Ukraine war, as per a report published by The Independent. In the speech, Putin said boosting the country's population will be "our goal for the coming decades". "Many of our ethnic groups have preserved the tradition of having strong multigenerational families with four, five, or even more children. Let us remember that Russian families, many of our grandmothers and great-grandmothers had seven, eight, or even more children," said Putin, while addressing the council through a video link. Also read: Russia imposes ban on 'international LGBT movement', terming it 'extremist group' "Let us preserve and revive these excellent traditions. Large families must become the norm, a way of life for all Russia's peoples. The family is not just the foundation of the state and society, it is a spiritual phenomenon, a source of morality," he said. The entire speech was uploaded on the official website of the Russian president. "Preserving and increasing the population of Russia is our goal for the coming decades and even generations ahead. This is the future of the Russian world, the millennium-old, eternal Russia," Putin said. Putin's comment linked to massive casualties suffered in war? Head of Russia's Orthodox Church Patriarch Kirill organised the conference and the representatives of many traditional organisations of Russia attended it, said The Independent. Though the comments of the Russian president did not directly refer to the massive casualties suffered by the Russian Army in the war against Ukraine, many media outlets have linked the statement to the loss borne in the conflict. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Russia deploys in Kherson region: British Intelligence UK defence ministry had estimated the death toll from Ukraine war at more than 300,000. As per a report by independent Russian policy group Re:Russia, nearly 820,000-920,000 people have till now fled the country. The country is also dealing severe shortage of workforce and there has economic slowdown because of the sanctions imposed by the West, in retaliation to the war waged by Russia against Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin appeals to Russian women to give birth to '8 or more' children

China, once more, is surrounded by controversy. This time, it is not COVID-19 but the rising pneumonia cases and its impact on school-going children who are aged five or above. Social media is abuzz with images of children who are admitted to hospitals for receiving treatment. However, other bizarre scenes are also seen where these kids are battling these respiratory illnesses while also attending to their school homework from these medical facilities.&nbsp;

If media reports are to be believed, amid an outbreak of pneumonia affecting children in the northern part of China, the hospitals in the region have established special "homework zones" for young patients dealing with respiratory illnesses.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-strips-conservative-us-cardinal-of-vatican-privileges-vatican-official-says-664247">Pope strips conservative US cardinal of Vatican privileges, Vatican official says</a>

This comes as China is facing a surge in cases which is attributed to a combination of known pathogens. It is straining hospitals in Beijing and nearby cities. Moreover, thousands of patients are seeking outpatient and emergency care daily.

<h2>Debate around homework from hospitals&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

Images and videos circulating on social media depict children engaged in homework while receiving intravenous drips in hospitals in Jiangsu, Anhui, and central Hubei provinces.

The scenes have sparked a debate online. Netizens can't keep quiet as it is unearthing memories of how China dealt with the Covid-19 crisis&nbsp;by imposing stringent norms and curbing freedom of people on social media outlets where they were speaking against the authorities.&nbsp;

<h2>Split reactions from parents&nbsp;</h2>

The reactions over this have been split. Now, as these images and videos of children doing homework from hospital beds are gaining traction, some of the parents are expressing mixed feelings about the practice.&nbsp;Reports suggested that the hospitals began popularising separate study zones for sick children a few years ago. Since then, it has become a practice of sorts.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/england-and-wales-living-in-dark-ages-poll-finds-1-in-7-hr-says-men-better-suited-to-top-jobs-664244">England and Wales 'living in dark ages,' poll finds 1-in-7 HR says men better suited to top jobs</a>

While some parents initially resisted the idea, the reported positive study environment at hospitals has prompted them to encourage their children to do homework during medical treatment. One parent mentioned that their child had to complete homework in the hospital to avoid additional tasks upon returning to school after recovery.

“My kid had to do his homework this way because if he did not finish it, he would have to do a lot more when he returns to school after he recovers,” a father reportedly said.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cop28-president-optimistic-of-stopping-global-warming-664241">COP28 president optimistic of stopping global warming</a>

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<h2>Criticism on&nbsp;social media&nbsp;</h2>

This approach in hospitals has faced criticism on social media, with some users expressing concern that sick children should be resting instead of studying. Despite the debate, the practice of children doing homework in hospitals is deemed "common in China," with some hospitals even having dedicated areas for students to study while undergoing treatment, according to social media users.

"We live in a country of hell mode," a user reportedly wrote on X.&nbsp;

Health authorities have linked the rising cases to viruses like influenza, rhinoviruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, and bacteria like Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

(With inputs from agencies)

China, once more, is surrounded by controversy. This time, it is not COVID-19 but the rising pneumonia cases and its impact on school-going children who are aged five or above.

China, once more, is surrounded by controversy. This time, it is not COVID-19 but the rising pneumonia cases and its impact on school-going children who are aged five or above. Social media is abuzz with images of children who are admitted to hospitals for receiving treatment. However, other bizarre scenes are also seen where these kids are battling these respiratory illnesses while also attending to their school homework from these medical facilities. If media reports are to be believed, amid an outbreak of pneumonia affecting children in the northern part of China, the hospitals in the region have established special "homework zones" for young patients dealing with respiratory illnesses. Also Read | Pope strips conservative US cardinal of Vatican privileges, Vatican official says This comes as China is facing a surge in cases which is attributed to a combination of known pathogens. It is straining hospitals in Beijing and nearby cities. Moreover, thousands of patients are seeking outpatient and emergency care daily. Debate around homework from hospitals Images and videos circulating on social media depict children engaged in homework while receiving intravenous drips in hospitals in Jiangsu, Anhui, and central Hubei provinces. The scenes have sparked a debate online. Netizens can't keep quiet as it is unearthing memories of how China dealt with the Covid-19 crisis by imposing stringent norms and curbing freedom of people on social media outlets where they were speaking against the authorities. Split reactions from parents The reactions over this have been split. Now, as these images and videos of children doing homework from hospital beds are gaining traction, some of the parents are expressing mixed feelings about the practice. Reports suggested that the hospitals began popularising separate study zones for sick children a few years ago. Since then, it has become a practice of sorts. Also Read | England and Wales 'living in dark ages,' poll finds 1-in-7 HR says men better suited to top jobs While some parents initially resisted the idea, the reported positive study environment at hospitals has prompted them to encourage their children to do homework during medical treatment. One parent mentioned that their child had to complete homework in the hospital to avoid additional tasks upon returning to school after recovery. “My kid had to do his homework this way because if he did not finish it, he would have to do a lot more when he returns to school after he recovers,” a father reportedly said. Watch | COP28 president optimistic of stopping global warming × Criticism on social media This approach in hospitals has faced criticism on social media, with some users expressing concern that sick children should be resting instead of studying. Despite the debate, the practice of children doing homework in hospitals is deemed "common in China," with some hospitals even having dedicated areas for students to study while undergoing treatment, according to social media users. "We live in a country of hell mode," a user reportedly wrote on X. Health authorities have linked the rising cases to viruses like influenza, rhinoviruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, and bacteria like Mycoplasma pneumoniae. (With inputs from agencies)

'Hell mode?': Chinese hospitals have 'homework zones' for kids battling pneumonia, netizens react

A morning sickness pill in which thalidomide was an active ingredient in the sedative was distributed among mothers in Australia and worldwide in the 1960s. The pill was later found to cause malformation of limbs, facial features and internal organs in unborn children.

Australia apologises for 'Thalidomide tragedy', a pill that killed thousands | WION

"It takes her two hours to get to her school in these hills," said the person who was driving me around in a hill station nestled in Himalayas in north India's Uttarakhand state. While he told me about the duration it takes her daughter to reach school in the small but beautiful Himalayan town of Kausani, I could see tourism brimming around me. With improving road infrastructure, the 440 km distance from New Delhi to Kausani could be covered by road in less than a day — making tourism to flourish, as it has been doing since many years now. 
 
Home to more than 2,000 people, Kausani's children are free to dream of becoming writers, singers, athletes, astronomers, mathematicians and so on. 
 
But my driver's response revealed the stark reality of education in the small town. Two hours is the duration his daughter must spend in covering the distance&nbsp;every day to make her dreams achievable. The accessibility to schools for children living in Kausani are reflective of the larger reality of far-and-few institutional access to education in the hinterland across India. 
 
Education is a rigorous exercise. Its equal and qualitative access is integral for children to prosper towards a career which is not only fruitful but also enables them to show the world their genuine capabilities. 
 
However, for children living in remote areas and especially those from impoverished families, the childhood&nbsp;dreams of flying high are generally broken by the challenges of their early youth. Financial strains become a key issue. But what remains unaddressed is the lack of guidance and quality education which can help them choose their careers wisely and crack competitive exams when they compete against children from the rest of the country. 
 
25-year-old Priyanka Ghumre, who lives in Maharashtra's Mainda village, like many others, had once dreamt of getting a government job and building a successful career for herself. 
 
"We all dream to become successful in our life despite our ... background. However, when we face reality and challenges, we realise how difficult it is to build a fruitful career. In our village, after we study till fourth standard, the family starts discussing if we must even receive education or not because of numerous social and financial challenges," Ghumre told WION.

<h2>Career counselling - a rare opportunity in rural India?</h2>

Today, Ghumre along with many others is working with the Asude&nbsp;Foundation to guide these kids to decide the best career for them and is helping them identify their abilities and even carve their dreams - even if that is of becoming a Michelin-star chef. 
 
"In our education system, it is still possible to complete studies till 12th standard. But what remains a question is if we have the academic capabilities to compete with other students in college entrance exams even after completing our schooling," Ghumre asked. 
 
Speaking about the lack of guidance, she said, "Career counselling is something which is critically missing in the country's hinterland. Children have no one to guide what they should pursue and how they should build their careers. Financial constraints also play a major factor in deciding the career, as many end up choosing the one which is better paying and has&nbsp;job security." 
 
The idea of propagating unconventional career options in India's hinterland may sound intriguing. But it is likely to come with its set of challenges because of factors such as conservative mindsets and limited exposure to the rapidly changing global market. 
 
Founder and CEO, of Physics Wallah (PW) Alakh Pandey, spoke about how this challenge can be thwarted and how a better future for such students can be paved. 
 
"New-age skills training programmes serve as a powerful vehicle for breaking these barriers. By offering courses in emerging fields like data science, blockchain, and cybersecurity, these programmes introduce individuals to unconventional career pathways. In essence, these programmes not only address the difficulty of spreading unconventional career ideas but actively contribute to reshaping career perspectives in hinterland communities," Pandey said. 
 
To help Physics Wallah change the future of India's education, social peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platform Rang De has entered into a partnership which aims to address the need for accessible and affordable student loans to receive top-quality, industry-relevant education. 
 
"In its true essence, this partnership between Rang De and Physics Wallah holds significant promise in addressing the issue of accessible education in remote areas of our country. This collaboration aims to tackle two crucial elements that cause barriers in accessing education: affordable credit and access to quality educational programs. The collaboration between Rang De and Physics Wallah will enable deserving students from low-income backgrounds and remote areas by providing them with no collateral loans and help them get access to top-quality education through the residential programme," spoke Smita Ram, CEO and Co-founder, of Rang De.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

"It takes her two hours to get to her school in these hills," said the person who was driving me around in a hill station nestled in Himalayas in north India's Uttarakhand state.

"It takes her two hours to get to her school in these hills," said the person who was driving me around in a hill station nestled in Himalayas in north India's Uttarakhand state. While he told me about the duration it takes her daughter to reach school in the small but beautiful Himalayan town of Kausani, I could see tourism brimming around me. With improving road infrastructure, the 440 km distance from New Delhi to Kausani could be covered by road in less than a day — making tourism to flourish, as it has been doing since many years now. Home to more than 2,000 people, Kausani's children are free to dream of becoming writers, singers, athletes, astronomers, mathematicians and so on. But my driver's response revealed the stark reality of education in the small town. Two hours is the duration his daughter must spend in covering the distance every day to make her dreams achievable. The accessibility to schools for children living in Kausani are reflective of the larger reality of far-and-few institutional access to education in the hinterland across India. Education is a rigorous exercise. Its equal and qualitative access is integral for children to prosper towards a career which is not only fruitful but also enables them to show the world their genuine capabilities. However, for children living in remote areas and especially those from impoverished families, the childhood dreams of flying high are generally broken by the challenges of their early youth. Financial strains become a key issue. But what remains unaddressed is the lack of guidance and quality education which can help them choose their careers wisely and crack competitive exams when they compete against children from the rest of the country. 25-year-old Priyanka Ghumre, who lives in Maharashtra's Mainda village, like many others, had once dreamt of getting a government job and building a successful career for herself. "We all dream to become successful in our life despite our ... background. However, when we face reality and challenges, we realise how difficult it is to build a fruitful career. In our village, after we study till fourth standard, the family starts discussing if we must even receive education or not because of numerous social and financial challenges," Ghumre told WION. Career counselling - a rare opportunity in rural India? Today, Ghumre along with many others is working with the Asude Foundation to guide these kids to decide the best career for them and is helping them identify their abilities and even carve their dreams - even if that is of becoming a Michelin-star chef. "In our education system, it is still possible to complete studies till 12th standard. But what remains a question is if we have the academic capabilities to compete with other students in college entrance exams even after completing our schooling," Ghumre asked. Speaking about the lack of guidance, she said, "Career counselling is something which is critically missing in the country's hinterland. Children have no one to guide what they should pursue and how they should build their careers. Financial constraints also play a major factor in deciding the career, as many end up choosing the one which is better paying and has job security." The idea of propagating unconventional career options in India's hinterland may sound intriguing. But it is likely to come with its set of challenges because of factors such as conservative mindsets and limited exposure to the rapidly changing global market. Founder and CEO, of Physics Wallah (PW) Alakh Pandey, spoke about how this challenge can be thwarted and how a better future for such students can be paved. "New-age skills training programmes serve as a powerful vehicle for breaking these barriers. By offering courses in emerging fields like data science, blockchain, and cybersecurity, these programmes introduce individuals to unconventional career pathways. In essence, these programmes not only address the difficulty of spreading unconventional career ideas but actively contribute to reshaping career perspectives in hinterland communities," Pandey said. To help Physics Wallah change the future of India's education, social peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platform Rang De has entered into a partnership which aims to address the need for accessible and affordable student loans to receive top-quality, industry-relevant education. "In its true essence, this partnership between Rang De and Physics Wallah holds significant promise in addressing the issue of accessible education in remote areas of our country. This collaboration aims to tackle two crucial elements that cause barriers in accessing education: affordable credit and access to quality educational programs. The collaboration between Rang De and Physics Wallah will enable deserving students from low-income backgrounds and remote areas by providing them with no collateral loans and help them get access to top-quality education through the residential programme," spoke Smita Ram, CEO and Co-founder, of Rang De. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Dreaming through poverty: Children from rural India deserve meaningful careers that matter

An extensive <a href="https://mitmgmtfaculty.mit.edu/jjdoyle/">study</a> conducted by researchers from MIT, Northwestern University, the University of Florida, and other institutions puts spotlight on second-born children, particularly second-born boys.&nbsp;

According to the study, second-born children&nbsp;are 20 to 40 per cent more likely to face disciplinary issues in school and become involved in the criminal justice system when compared to their first-born sibling.&nbsp;

MIT economist Joseph Doyle, one of the paper's authors, expressed his astonishment at the results during an NPR interview. He pointed out that second-born children, compared to their older siblings, exhibit a significantly higher likelihood of ending up in prison, experiencing school suspensions, and engaging in juvenile delinquency.

"We do find that parental time investment measured by time out of the labour force is higher for first-borns at ages 2-4, suggesting that the arrival of a second-born child extends early-childhood parental investments for first-borns," he wrote.

The research, conducted in Denmark and Florida, showed remarkably similar results across the two locations, and it took various factors into account, including infant and childhood health, parental investments, school quality, and sibling composition.

<h2>Some major takeaways&nbsp;</h2>

One noteworthy discovery from the study was that maternal employment and the use&nbsp;of daycare services were more common for second-born children between the ages of two&nbsp;and&nbsp;four compared to their older siblings.

As the study explains, first-born children often enjoy undivided attention until the arrival of their younger siblings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-nitrous-oxide-uk-bans-recreational-use-of-laughing-gas-to-curb-anti-social-behaviour-656592">Also read |&nbsp;Explained | UK bans recreational use of ‘laughing gas’. Here's why</a>

However, the introduction of a second-born child can lead to an extension of parental investment in the first-born child, dividing parental attention between the two siblings.

Also watch |&nbsp;UK: Child vaping crisis becomes public health catastrophe

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-child-vaping-crisis-becomes-public-health-catastrophe-655698/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

An extensive study conducted by researchers from MIT, Northwestern University, the University of Florida, and other institutions puts spotlight on second-born children, particularly second-born boys.

An extensive study conducted by researchers from MIT, Northwestern University, the University of Florida, and other institutions puts spotlight on second-born children, particularly second-born boys. According to the study, second-born children are 20 to 40 per cent more likely to face disciplinary issues in school and become involved in the criminal justice system when compared to their first-born sibling. MIT economist Joseph Doyle, one of the paper's authors, expressed his astonishment at the results during an NPR interview. He pointed out that second-born children, compared to their older siblings, exhibit a significantly higher likelihood of ending up in prison, experiencing school suspensions, and engaging in juvenile delinquency. "We do find that parental time investment measured by time out of the labour force is higher for first-borns at ages 2-4, suggesting that the arrival of a second-born child extends early-childhood parental investments for first-borns," he wrote. The research, conducted in Denmark and Florida, showed remarkably similar results across the two locations, and it took various factors into account, including infant and childhood health, parental investments, school quality, and sibling composition. Some major takeaways One noteworthy discovery from the study was that maternal employment and the use of daycare services were more common for second-born children between the ages of two and four compared to their older siblings. As the study explains, first-born children often enjoy undivided attention until the arrival of their younger siblings. Also read | Explained | UK bans recreational use of ‘laughing gas’. Here's why However, the introduction of a second-born child can lead to an extension of parental investment in the first-born child, dividing parental attention between the two siblings. Also watch | UK: Child vaping crisis becomes public health catastrophe (With inputs from agencies)

Born to be wild? Second-born kids more likely to be troublemakers, says study

More than 200,000 minors have been sexually abused by the Roman Catholic clergy in Spain since 1940, as per the findings published by an independent commission on Friday (Oct 27).

No specific figure was mentioned by the report, but it said that in a poll of around 8,000 people it was discovered that 0.6 per cent of around 39 million people living in Spain said that they had been sexually abused by&nbsp;members of the clergy when they were young.&nbsp;

After abuse by lay members was included, the percentage increased to 1.13 per cent, making it nearly more than 400,000 people,&nbsp;said Spain's national ombudsman Angel Gabilondo at a press conference for presenting the report's findings.&nbsp;

The revelations made in Spain are the latest to rock the Roman Catholic Church after many sexual abuse scandals were exposed around the world, which generally involve children, in the past 20 years.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-backtracks-says-catholic-church-can-bless-same-sex-unions-on-case-by-case-basis-641955">Pope Francis says Catholic Church can bless same-sex unions on 'case-by-case basis', amid tussle</a>

In Spain, a traditionally Catholic country that has become highly secular, clerical abuse allegations have started gaining traction now as the survivors continue making accusations.

"Unfortunately, for many years there has been a certain desire to deny abuses or a desire to conceal or protect the abusers," stated Gabilondo, a former education minister.

The report has criticised the Catholic Church's attitude and asked it to respond to the cases of child abuse which involved the "insufficient" clergy. &nbsp;

The report appealed for the creation of a state fund for paying reparations to the victims.

<h2>Findings to be discussed in extraordinary meeting</h2>

Before the presentation of the report in the parliament, the Spanish bishops conference stated that an extraordinary meeting would be held to discuss its findings on Monday (Oct 30).&nbsp;

In March 2022, Spain's parliament gave approval for the establishment of an independent commission led by the ombudsman of the country to "shed light" on allegations of sexual abuse of "defenceless boys and girls" which took place inside the Catholic Church.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Orthodox church hit by Israeli Airstrike

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The Catholic Church of Spain, which clearly refused to carry out its own investigation, did not agree to participate in the independent investigation, although they co-operated by sharing documents on cases of sexual abuse which had been collected by dioceses.

With the increasing political pressure, a private law firm in February 2022 was tasked with an "audit" into past and present sexual abuse cases by teachers, clergy, and others who were associated with the Church and it was said that the audit should be completed by the end of the year.

(With inputs from agencies)

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More than 200,000 minors have been sexually abused by the Roman Catholic clergy in Spain since 1940, as per the findings published by an independent commission on Friday (Oct 27).

More than 200,000 minors have been sexually abused by the Roman Catholic clergy in Spain since 1940, as per the findings published by an independent commission on Friday (Oct 27). No specific figure was mentioned by the report, but it said that in a poll of around 8,000 people it was discovered that 0.6 per cent of around 39 million people living in Spain said that they had been sexually abused by members of the clergy when they were young. After abuse by lay members was included, the percentage increased to 1.13 per cent, making it nearly more than 400,000 people, said Spain's national ombudsman Angel Gabilondo at a press conference for presenting the report's findings. The revelations made in Spain are the latest to rock the Roman Catholic Church after many sexual abuse scandals were exposed around the world, which generally involve children, in the past 20 years. ALSO READ | Pope Francis says Catholic Church can bless same-sex unions on 'case-by-case basis', amid tussle In Spain, a traditionally Catholic country that has become highly secular, clerical abuse allegations have started gaining traction now as the survivors continue making accusations. "Unfortunately, for many years there has been a certain desire to deny abuses or a desire to conceal or protect the abusers," stated Gabilondo, a former education minister. The report has criticised the Catholic Church's attitude and asked it to respond to the cases of child abuse which involved the "insufficient" clergy. The report appealed for the creation of a state fund for paying reparations to the victims. Findings to be discussed in extraordinary meeting Before the presentation of the report in the parliament, the Spanish bishops conference stated that an extraordinary meeting would be held to discuss its findings on Monday (Oct 30). In March 2022, Spain's parliament gave approval for the establishment of an independent commission led by the ombudsman of the country to "shed light" on allegations of sexual abuse of "defenceless boys and girls" which took place inside the Catholic Church. WATCH | Israel-Palestine war: Orthodox church hit by Israeli Airstrike The Catholic Church of Spain, which clearly refused to carry out its own investigation, did not agree to participate in the independent investigation, although they co-operated by sharing documents on cases of sexual abuse which had been collected by dioceses. With the increasing political pressure, a private law firm in February 2022 was tasked with an "audit" into past and present sexual abuse cases by teachers, clergy, and others who were associated with the Church and it was said that the audit should be completed by the end of the year. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Over 200,000 children sexually abused by Catholic clergy in Spain, states probe

22% of the UK's population, or 14.5 million people, were expected to be living in poverty in 2023. There were 4.3 million youngsters among them.

UK: Over 1 MN children experience dire poverty

Russia has consented to reunite four Ukrainian kids with their families, following an agreement facilitated by Qatar.

These children&nbsp;are in the age group of&nbsp;two to 17 years old. This repatriation initiative represents the initial phase of a trial programme aimed at bringing back a larger number of the many children who were reportedly taken by Russia in the wake of its extensive invasion of Ukraine last year.

As per&nbsp;Ukrainian authorities, they have identified approximately 20,000 children whom they claim were forcibly seized by Russia during this period.

Amid&nbsp;the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Moscow maintained that its actions were driven by humanitarian concerns.

Russian authorities insisted that they had undertaken a massive evacuation operation, rescuing hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian children to shield them from the perilous circumstances in their home country. During this period, prominent Russian officials openly disregarded any allegations against their intentions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-does-the-russia-ukraine-war-impact-indias-wheat-export-strategy-467097">How does the Russia-Ukraine war impact India's wheat export strategy?</a>

<h2>Challenges in repatriation</h2>

However, the process of bringing these children back from Russia has not been without complications. In some instances, children have had to embark on a convoluted journey, traversing through Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland before reuniting with their families in Ukraine.

The first to return was a seven-year-old who was reunited with his grandmother.

The&nbsp;reunion took place on Friday (Oct 13), and the next on&nbsp;Monday (Oct 16). The remaining&nbsp;children are expected to reach Ukraine later this week.

These four children are part of a larger cohort of Ukrainian children who Kyiv alleges were forcibly separated from their families, transported across the border into Russia, and subjected to a concerted effort to erase their Ukrainian identity.

Investigations by the BBC have revealed that Ukrainian children in Russia were frequently informed that there was nothing left for them in their home country and were subjected to varying degrees of indoctrination in a "patriotic" Russian curriculum.

Some Ukrainian families have had to undertake arduous journeys into Russia to reclaim their children. It's estimated that&nbsp;prior to Qatar's mediation,&nbsp;only about 400 Ukrainian children had returned to their homeland.

Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine's package will maintain vehicles, protect key infrastructure

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<h2>Ukraine's accusations and Russia's response</h2>

Daria Gerasymchuk, an adviser to the Ukrainian president for children's rights and rehabilitation, voiced strong accusations, suggesting that Russia aimed to forcibly separate children from their biological families, impose a "Russified" identity upon them, and integrate them into another ethnic group, reported the BBC.&nbsp;

Russia has indicated a willingness to cooperate in reuniting children with their families. Russian authorities have pledged to cover transportation and accommodation costs and, when necessary, conduct DNA analysis to confirm familial connections.

&nbsp;

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Russia has consented to reunite four Ukrainian kids with their families, following an agreement facilitated by Qatar. These children are in the age group of two to 17 years old.

Russia has consented to reunite four Ukrainian kids with their families, following an agreement facilitated by Qatar. These children are in the age group of two to 17 years old. This repatriation initiative represents the initial phase of a trial programme aimed at bringing back a larger number of the many children who were reportedly taken by Russia in the wake of its extensive invasion of Ukraine last year. As per Ukrainian authorities, they have identified approximately 20,000 children whom they claim were forcibly seized by Russia during this period. Amid the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Moscow maintained that its actions were driven by humanitarian concerns. Russian authorities insisted that they had undertaken a massive evacuation operation, rescuing hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian children to shield them from the perilous circumstances in their home country. During this period, prominent Russian officials openly disregarded any allegations against their intentions. Also read | How does the Russia-Ukraine war impact India's wheat export strategy? Challenges in repatriation However, the process of bringing these children back from Russia has not been without complications. In some instances, children have had to embark on a convoluted journey, traversing through Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland before reuniting with their families in Ukraine. The first to return was a seven-year-old who was reunited with his grandmother. The reunion took place on Friday (Oct 13), and the next on Monday (Oct 16). The remaining children are expected to reach Ukraine later this week. These four children are part of a larger cohort of Ukrainian children who Kyiv alleges were forcibly separated from their families, transported across the border into Russia, and subjected to a concerted effort to erase their Ukrainian identity. Investigations by the BBC have revealed that Ukrainian children in Russia were frequently informed that there was nothing left for them in their home country and were subjected to varying degrees of indoctrination in a "patriotic" Russian curriculum. Some Ukrainian families have had to undertake arduous journeys into Russia to reclaim their children. It's estimated that prior to Qatar's mediation, only about 400 Ukrainian children had returned to their homeland. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Ukraine's package will maintain vehicles, protect key infrastructure Ukraine's accusations and Russia's response Daria Gerasymchuk, an adviser to the Ukrainian president for children's rights and rehabilitation, voiced strong accusations, suggesting that Russia aimed to forcibly separate children from their biological families, impose a "Russified" identity upon them, and integrate them into another ethnic group, reported the BBC. Russia has indicated a willingness to cooperate in reuniting children with their families. Russian authorities have pledged to cover transportation and accommodation costs and, when necessary, conduct DNA analysis to confirm familial connections. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia returns four Ukrainian children in Qatar-mediated repatriation deal

A video has been released by Hamas’s Qassam Brigades in which a female hostage and two children were shown getting released by the terror outfit.&nbsp;

The video footage which aired on Al Jazeera on Wednesday night (Oct 12) was captured from a distance and showed the unidentified woman and the children from behind.

The armed wing of Hamas, the Ezzedine al-Qassem Brigades, in a statement said that the woman was an Israeli national.

“An Israeli settler and her two children were released after they were detained during the clashes,” read the statement, as per a report published by the AFP news agency.

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Hamas freed a woman and two children from among captured Israeli settlers. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraelPalestineConflict?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IsraelPalestineConflict</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Israel_under_attack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Israel_under_attack</a> <a href="https://t.co/xg07HasyPW">pic.twitter.com/xg07HasyPW</a>
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<h2>Israel terms the video footage as “theatrics”</h2>

The men, who appeared to be Hamas fighters, were seen walking away after leaving the captive in an open area near a fence, which most probably was the frontier between Israel and Gaza. It remained unclear when the video was shot. The video was dismissed by Israel as “theatrics”.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uninstall-tiktok-instagram-now-jewish-parents-urged-to-protect-their-kids-from-disturbing-content-online-645758">‘Uninstall TikTok, Instagram now,’ Jewish parents urged to protect their kids from disturbing content online</a>

“After the whole world saw its ugly and true face as a barbaric organisation that executed hundreds of innocent children and women in a terrorist attack and a hideous massacre, Hamas is trying to change the truth through the theatrics of publishing a propaganda video through its media mouthpieces,” said Avichay Adraee, the Israeli military spokesman for the Arab media, in Arabic on X.

“The truth is clear and obvious, and its features will become more clear in the coming days. Hamas is worse than ISIS, and we will continue to strike it hard without stopping,” he stated while speaking about the ISIL (ISIS) terrorist group.

<h2>Israeli media rejects claim of Hamas</h2>

The claim of Hamas was rejected by Israeli television channels as they claimed that Hamas fighters never took the woman and two children to the Gaza Strip after they launched the deadly assault.

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Palestine war: Israel's Unity govt to have a war cabinet; former PM Lapid has option to join

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The woman was identified by the channels as Avital Aladjem, a resident of kibbutz Holit, who had said in a series of interviews that she, along with two children of her neighbour, was taken by force by Hamas militants to a border area between Israel and the Gaza Strip.

She then stated that Hamas later released her along with the children.

Around 150 people were taken captive by Hamas on Saturday after its unprecedented assault on Israel, which led to an immediate declaration of war on Gaza.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A video has been released by Hamas’s Qassam Brigades in which a female hostage and two children were shown getting released by the terror outfit. The video footage which aired on Al Jazeera on Wednesday night (Oct 12) was captured from a distance and showed the unidentified woman and the children from behind.

A video has been released by Hamas’s Qassam Brigades in which a female hostage and two children were shown getting released by the terror outfit. The video footage which aired on Al Jazeera on Wednesday night (Oct 12) was captured from a distance and showed the unidentified woman and the children from behind. The armed wing of Hamas, the Ezzedine al-Qassem Brigades, in a statement said that the woman was an Israeli national. “An Israeli settler and her two children were released after they were detained during the clashes,” read the statement, as per a report published by the AFP news agency. Hamas freed a woman and two children from among captured Israeli settlers. #IsraelPalestineConflict #Israel_under_attack pic.twitter.com/xg07HasyPW — Titan_Protection (@Titan_TAT) October 11, 2023 × Israel terms the video footage as “theatrics” The men, who appeared to be Hamas fighters, were seen walking away after leaving the captive in an open area near a fence, which most probably was the frontier between Israel and Gaza. It remained unclear when the video was shot. The video was dismissed by Israel as “theatrics”. ALSO READ | ‘Uninstall TikTok, Instagram now,’ Jewish parents urged to protect their kids from disturbing content online “After the whole world saw its ugly and true face as a barbaric organisation that executed hundreds of innocent children and women in a terrorist attack and a hideous massacre, Hamas is trying to change the truth through the theatrics of publishing a propaganda video through its media mouthpieces,” said Avichay Adraee, the Israeli military spokesman for the Arab media, in Arabic on X. “The truth is clear and obvious, and its features will become more clear in the coming days. Hamas is worse than ISIS, and we will continue to strike it hard without stopping,” he stated while speaking about the ISIL (ISIS) terrorist group. Israeli media rejects claim of Hamas The claim of Hamas was rejected by Israeli television channels as they claimed that Hamas fighters never took the woman and two children to the Gaza Strip after they launched the deadly assault. WATCH | Israel-Palestine war: Israel's Unity govt to have a war cabinet; former PM Lapid has option to join The woman was identified by the channels as Avital Aladjem, a resident of kibbutz Holit, who had said in a series of interviews that she, along with two children of her neighbour, was taken by force by Hamas militants to a border area between Israel and the Gaza Strip. She then stated that Hamas later released her along with the children. Around 150 people were taken captive by Hamas on Saturday after its unprecedented assault on Israel, which led to an immediate declaration of war on Gaza. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch | Hamas shares video showing release of female captive, two children

Weather disasters fueled by climate change -- from floods to droughts, storms to wildfires -- sparked&nbsp;43.1 million child displacements from 2016 to 2021, the UN Children's Fund warned Thursday, slamming the lack of attention paid to victims.

In a sweeping report on the issue, the United Nations agency detailed the heart-wrenching stories of some of the children affected, and co-author Laura Healy told AFP the data only revealed the "tip of the iceberg," with many more likely affected.

"We moved our belongings to the highway, where we lived for weeks," recounts Sudanese child Khalid Abdul Azim, whose flooded village was only accessible by boat.

In 2017, sisters Mia and Maia Bravo watched flames engulf their trailer in California from the back of the family minivan.&nbsp;

"I was afraid, in shock," Maia says in the report. "I would stay up all night."

Statistics on internal displacements caused by climate disasters generally do not account for the age of the victims.

However UNICEF worked with the non-governmental Internal Displacement Monitoring Center to unpick the data and reveal the hidden toll on children.

From 2016 to 2021, four types of climate disasters (floods, storms, droughts and wildfires) -- the frequency of which has increased due to global warming -- led to&nbsp;43.1 million child displacements in 44 countries, the report says.

Ninety-five per cent of those displacements were caused by floods and storms.

"It's the equivalent of about 20,000 child displacements every day," Healy told AFP, underscoring how the children affected are then at risk of suffering other traumas, such as being separated from their parents or falling victim to child traffickers.

The data reflect the number of displacements and not the number of children affected, as the same child could be uprooted more than once.

The figures do not allow for a distinction between those evacuated before a weather event, and those forced to leave in the wake of a disaster.

And, according to Healy, the number of displacements due to drought is "radically underreported," because they are less sudden and thus more difficult to quantify.

"This is just the tip of the iceberg based on the available data that we have," she said.&nbsp;

"The reality is with the impacts of climate change, or better tracking of displacement when it comes to slow onset events, that the number of children who are uprooted from their homes is going to be much greater."

<h2>'Far too slowly'&nbsp;</h2>

The UNICEF report offers some partial predictions, for specific events.

Floods linked to overflowing rivers could spark 96 million child displacements in the next 30 years, while cyclonic winds could force 10.3 million displacements, it says. Storm surges could lead to 7.2 million displacements.

None of those estimates includes preventive evacuations.

"For those who are forced to flee, the fear and impact can be especially devastating, with worry of whether they will return home, resume school, or be forced to move again," UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said in a statement.&nbsp;

"Moving may have saved their lives, but it's also very disruptive," Russell said.

"As the impacts of climate change escalate, so too will climate-driven movement. We have the tools and knowledge to respond to this escalating challenge for children, but we are acting far too slowly."

UNICEF called on world leaders to take up the issue at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai in November and December.

Healy says children, including those already forced to move, must be prepared "to live in a climate change world."

Even if the intensifying effects of climate change are affecting wide swathes of the planet, the UNICEF report shines the light on particularly vulnerable countries.

China, India and the Philippines are the countries with the largest number of displacements (nearly 23 million in six years) because of their huge populations and their geographic locations -- but also because of their preventive evacuation plans.

But in proportional terms, Africa and small island nations are most at risk -- in Dominica, 76 per cent of all children were displaced from 2016 to 2021. For Cuba and Saint-Martin, that figure was more than 30 per cent.

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Weather disasters fueled by climate change -- from floods to droughts, storms to wildfires -- sparked 43.1 million child displacements from 2016 to 2021, the UN Children's Fund warned Thursday, slamming the lack of attention paid to victims.

Weather disasters fueled by climate change -- from floods to droughts, storms to wildfires -- sparked 43.1 million child displacements from 2016 to 2021, the UN Children's Fund warned Thursday, slamming the lack of attention paid to victims. In a sweeping report on the issue, the United Nations agency detailed the heart-wrenching stories of some of the children affected, and co-author Laura Healy told AFP the data only revealed the "tip of the iceberg," with many more likely affected. "We moved our belongings to the highway, where we lived for weeks," recounts Sudanese child Khalid Abdul Azim, whose flooded village was only accessible by boat. In 2017, sisters Mia and Maia Bravo watched flames engulf their trailer in California from the back of the family minivan. "I was afraid, in shock," Maia says in the report. "I would stay up all night." Statistics on internal displacements caused by climate disasters generally do not account for the age of the victims. However UNICEF worked with the non-governmental Internal Displacement Monitoring Center to unpick the data and reveal the hidden toll on children. From 2016 to 2021, four types of climate disasters (floods, storms, droughts and wildfires) -- the frequency of which has increased due to global warming -- led to 43.1 million child displacements in 44 countries, the report says. Ninety-five per cent of those displacements were caused by floods and storms. "It's the equivalent of about 20,000 child displacements every day," Healy told AFP, underscoring how the children affected are then at risk of suffering other traumas, such as being separated from their parents or falling victim to child traffickers. The data reflect the number of displacements and not the number of children affected, as the same child could be uprooted more than once. The figures do not allow for a distinction between those evacuated before a weather event, and those forced to leave in the wake of a disaster. And, according to Healy, the number of displacements due to drought is "radically underreported," because they are less sudden and thus more difficult to quantify. "This is just the tip of the iceberg based on the available data that we have," she said. "The reality is with the impacts of climate change, or better tracking of displacement when it comes to slow onset events, that the number of children who are uprooted from their homes is going to be much greater." 'Far too slowly' The UNICEF report offers some partial predictions, for specific events. Floods linked to overflowing rivers could spark 96 million child displacements in the next 30 years, while cyclonic winds could force 10.3 million displacements, it says. Storm surges could lead to 7.2 million displacements. None of those estimates includes preventive evacuations. "For those who are forced to flee, the fear and impact can be especially devastating, with worry of whether they will return home, resume school, or be forced to move again," UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said in a statement. "Moving may have saved their lives, but it's also very disruptive," Russell said. "As the impacts of climate change escalate, so too will climate-driven movement. We have the tools and knowledge to respond to this escalating challenge for children, but we are acting far too slowly." UNICEF called on world leaders to take up the issue at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai in November and December. Healy says children, including those already forced to move, must be prepared "to live in a climate change world." Even if the intensifying effects of climate change are affecting wide swathes of the planet, the UNICEF report shines the light on particularly vulnerable countries. China, India and the Philippines are the countries with the largest number of displacements (nearly 23 million in six years) because of their huge populations and their geographic locations -- but also because of their preventive evacuation plans. But in proportional terms, Africa and small island nations are most at risk -- in Dominica, 76 per cent of all children were displaced from 2016 to 2021. For Cuba and Saint-Martin, that figure was more than 30 per cent. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Tens of millions of children uprooted by climate disasters: UNICEF

The drug regulator of India discovered that an anti-allergy syrup and a cough syrup, which were being produced by Norris Medicines, are toxic, as per a government report. The syrups were declared toxic months after Indian-made cough syrups were said to be the cause of death of 141 children worldwide.&nbsp;

The medicines were contaminated either with ethylene glycol (EG) or diethylene glycol (DEG), the same contaminants which were discovered in the cough syrups which led to deaths in Gambia, Uzbekistan and Cameroon since last year.&nbsp;

For the first time in around two years, any DEG and EG contamination has been flagged by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) in its monthly reports as the country makes an attempt to crack down on its drug industry which is worth $42 billion and is dominated by small players.

Speaking to Reuters on Wednesday (October 4), commissioner of Gujarat state's Food and Drug Control Administration HG Koshia said that it had inspected the Norris factory last month and gave orders for suspending its production and recalling the drugs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-medical-personnel-released-from-kuwait-after-new-delhis-intervention-642656">Indian medical personnel released from Kuwait after New Delhi's intervention</a>

"The company failed miserably on compliance parameters of good manufacturing practices. The adequate water system was not there. The air-handling unit was also not up to the mark. In the larger interest of public health, we ordered the unit to stop production," Koshia said.&nbsp;

The CDSCO uploaded a list of "not of standard quality/spurious/adulterated/misbranded" drugs for August on its website, as per which in the tests carried out at a CDSCO laboratory, the Trimax Expectorant of the company contained 0.118 per cent of EG, while allergy drug Sylpro Plus Syrup had 0.171 per cent of EG and 0.243 per cent of DEG.

<h2>CDSCO report on syrups is 'pivotal': WHO&nbsp;</h2>

Koshia stated that the cough syrup was being exported by Norris. The World Health Organization (WHO) stated that the safe limit is not beyond 0.10 per cent, which is based on internationally accepted standards.

"We are aware of the CDSCO report and have communicated with that agency to ascertain where the products... have been exported," stated a WHO spokeswoman. "This information is pivotal when we consider whether - or not - to issue a medical product alert," she added.&nbsp;

The CDSCO also discovered that DEG and EG had contaminated three batches of COLD OUT syrup made by Fourrts (India) Laboratories. In August, the World Health Organization said that there were unacceptable levels of DEG and EG in the batch of COLD OUT sold in Iraq.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Maharashtra sees 24 deaths in 24 hours; hospital dean blames medicine &amp; staff shortage

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Speaking to Reuters, chairman of the government-backed Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil) Fourrts Chairman S.V. Veeramani said that in August a recent "analysis of retention samples" of COLD OUT showed there was "no contamination or toxins".

"There is no report of any adverse effect or death due to the product," he stated&nbsp;in a WhatsApp message. "As a matter of abundant caution, we have voluntarily recalled the product in Iraq market," he added.&nbsp;

The alerts over the toxic syrups come at a time when through Pharmexcil the government is organising workshops for drugmakers across the country to emphasise on the importance of patient safety and drug quality.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The drug regulator of India discovered that an anti-allergy syrup and a cough syrup, which were being produced by Norris Medicines, are toxic, as per a government report.

The drug regulator of India discovered that an anti-allergy syrup and a cough syrup, which were being produced by Norris Medicines, are toxic, as per a government report. The syrups were declared toxic months after Indian-made cough syrups were said to be the cause of death of 141 children worldwide. The medicines were contaminated either with ethylene glycol (EG) or diethylene glycol (DEG), the same contaminants which were discovered in the cough syrups which led to deaths in Gambia, Uzbekistan and Cameroon since last year. For the first time in around two years, any DEG and EG contamination has been flagged by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) in its monthly reports as the country makes an attempt to crack down on its drug industry which is worth $42 billion and is dominated by small players. Speaking to Reuters on Wednesday (October 4), commissioner of Gujarat state's Food and Drug Control Administration HG Koshia said that it had inspected the Norris factory last month and gave orders for suspending its production and recalling the drugs. ALSO READ | Indian medical personnel released from Kuwait after New Delhi's intervention "The company failed miserably on compliance parameters of good manufacturing practices. The adequate water system was not there. The air-handling unit was also not up to the mark. In the larger interest of public health, we ordered the unit to stop production," Koshia said. The CDSCO uploaded a list of "not of standard quality/spurious/adulterated/misbranded" drugs for August on its website, as per which in the tests carried out at a CDSCO laboratory, the Trimax Expectorant of the company contained 0.118 per cent of EG, while allergy drug Sylpro Plus Syrup had 0.171 per cent of EG and 0.243 per cent of DEG. CDSCO report on syrups is 'pivotal': WHO Koshia stated that the cough syrup was being exported by Norris. The World Health Organization (WHO) stated that the safe limit is not beyond 0.10 per cent, which is based on internationally accepted standards. "We are aware of the CDSCO report and have communicated with that agency to ascertain where the products... have been exported," stated a WHO spokeswoman. "This information is pivotal when we consider whether - or not - to issue a medical product alert," she added. The CDSCO also discovered that DEG and EG had contaminated three batches of COLD OUT syrup made by Fourrts (India) Laboratories. In August, the World Health Organization said that there were unacceptable levels of DEG and EG in the batch of COLD OUT sold in Iraq. WATCH | Maharashtra sees 24 deaths in 24 hours; hospital dean blames medicine & staff shortage Speaking to Reuters, chairman of the government-backed Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil) Fourrts Chairman S.V. Veeramani said that in August a recent "analysis of retention samples" of COLD OUT showed there was "no contamination or toxins". "There is no report of any adverse effect or death due to the product," he stated in a WhatsApp message. "As a matter of abundant caution, we have voluntarily recalled the product in Iraq market," he added. The alerts over the toxic syrups come at a time when through Pharmexcil the government is organising workshops for drugmakers across the country to emphasise on the importance of patient safety and drug quality. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India declares two syrups from Norris Medicines as 'toxic' after reports of poisoning deaths

A study has found that shouting at children is as damaging as physical or sexual abuse. Parents who shout at their children or call them “stupid” leave their children at greater risk of self-harm, drug use and ending up in jail.

Gravitas: We need to talk about this: Shouting at children, as damaging as physical abuse?

Japan is set to delay a proposed bill aimed at establishing a system that would prevent individuals with a history of sex crime from being employed in professions involving dealing with children.

Japan Times reported that the bill is not expected to be tabled in an extraordinary parliamentary session next month and instead will be delayed until next year.

Japan’s minister in charge of child policies, Ayuko Kato, is expected to announce the delay in the coming days. The decision has been taken in the wake of rising criticism from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party leaders over the contents of the bill.

<h2>LDP leaders criticise bill</h2>

Leaders in the ruling party want to expand the scope of the bill before it is tabled.&nbsp;

According to an LDP panel, formed specially to draft the bill, the bill won’t help establish an effective system if ‘only day nurseries and schools are required to use the system but not cram schools and after-school childcare centres as proposed.’

LDP members also propose that a time limit should be set for how far back records of sex crimes can be available for the system.

<h2>When will the bill be presented now?</h2>

As per reports, the bill will now be presented in an ordinary Diet session next year. Till then, efforts will be made to enrich the draft with provisions that the LDP panel has been demanding.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Japan says workers stole possibly radioactive metal from Fukushima

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The proposed bill, often referred to as the "Japanese DBS," resembles the Disclosure and Barring Service certificate used by the British government. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has presented this legislation as a significant policy initiative stemming from the establishment of the Children and Families Agency in April last year.

<h2>Challenges</h2>

In Japan, the oversight of licensing for teachers and childcare workers falls under different government offices, creating challenges in preventing individuals with a history of sex crimes from switching between professions involving children.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/possibly-radioactive-metal-stolen-from-near-fukushima-nuclear-plant-japan-638448">Also read:&nbsp;Possibly radioactive metal stolen from near Fukushima nuclear plant: Japan</a>

Advocacy from parent and child support groups has been instrumental in pushing for the implementation of this system. The government has been deliberating its response to the issue since 2020 when two men, both registered with a babysitter matching app, were separately arrested for sexually assaulting children under their care.

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Japan is set to delay a proposed bill aimed at establishing a system that would prevent individuals with a history of sex crime from being employed in professions involving dealing with children.

Japan is set to delay a proposed bill aimed at establishing a system that would prevent individuals with a history of sex crime from being employed in professions involving dealing with children. Japan Times reported that the bill is not expected to be tabled in an extraordinary parliamentary session next month and instead will be delayed until next year. Japan’s minister in charge of child policies, Ayuko Kato, is expected to announce the delay in the coming days. The decision has been taken in the wake of rising criticism from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party leaders over the contents of the bill. LDP leaders criticise bill Leaders in the ruling party want to expand the scope of the bill before it is tabled. According to an LDP panel, formed specially to draft the bill, the bill won’t help establish an effective system if ‘only day nurseries and schools are required to use the system but not cram schools and after-school childcare centres as proposed.’ LDP members also propose that a time limit should be set for how far back records of sex crimes can be available for the system. When will the bill be presented now? As per reports, the bill will now be presented in an ordinary Diet session next year. Till then, efforts will be made to enrich the draft with provisions that the LDP panel has been demanding. Watch: Japan says workers stole possibly radioactive metal from Fukushima × The proposed bill, often referred to as the "Japanese DBS," resembles the Disclosure and Barring Service certificate used by the British government. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has presented this legislation as a significant policy initiative stemming from the establishment of the Children and Families Agency in April last year. Challenges In Japan, the oversight of licensing for teachers and childcare workers falls under different government offices, creating challenges in preventing individuals with a history of sex crimes from switching between professions involving children. Also read: Possibly radioactive metal stolen from near Fukushima nuclear plant: Japan Advocacy from parent and child support groups has been instrumental in pushing for the implementation of this system. The government has been deliberating its response to the issue since 2020 when two men, both registered with a babysitter matching app, were separately arrested for sexually assaulting children under their care. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Japan delays bill aimed at preventing sex offenders from working with children

A one-year-old child died due to Fentanyl exposure in New York City, and three more children have been hospitalised. The police also found loads of Fentanyl under a trapdoor in the nursery. Is that a nursery or a drug peddler's warehouse? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: One-year-old dies due to fentanyl exposure in a children's nursery

Human trafficking has become a multi-million-dollar industry. Its victims are men, women and children. The crime ranges from sexual exploitation to forced labour, to forceful recruitment in wars. Those accused are rarely brought to justice due to their influence. So why is human trafficking so hard to combat? To know more, watch Dark World with Harshit Sabarwal on WION.

Human trafficking: Why is it hard to combat? | Dark World

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