Parents are making a conscious choice to have only one child as rising costs of living and demanding jobs influence their decisions. Priyanka Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: One and done, say parents

The Japanese government this year will increase the financial aid for child-rearing families moving from the capital Tokyo's metropolitan area to rural areas with declining birthrates and an ageing population.

As per an Asia Nikkei report, the financial support stands to be raised up to 1 million yen ($7,500) per child from the current 300,000 yen ($2,314).&nbsp;The programme which was launched in the year 2019, encourages families with children to move to areas with low, ageing populations.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Japan innovate robot 'Bex' to help its ageing population

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People who have resided in 23 wards of Tokyo for more than five years in the last decade are eligible for this aid. Also eligible are parents who have been commuting to these wards from other areas in Tokyo during the same time frame.&nbsp;

Every household of movers will in principle receive one million yen. The financial aid increases with every child by an additional 300,000 yen.&nbsp;

This aid is conditional on meeting one of three conditions: if they remotely continue with the same work they did prior to re-location, they get employment in a small or midsize company in the area they relocated to or start a new business there.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-pay-people-to-have-babies-in-an-attempt-to-boost-declining-birth-rate-542318">Japan to pay people to have babies in an attempt to boost declining birth rate</a>

Starting in April, a couple with two children will be eligible for up to three million yen, which will not be subject to an income test for support.

Applicants have to report to the local government within three months to one year of moving and must live in the relocated area for at least five years. If they move before the end of that period, they'll have to return the aid.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/artificial-womb-which-can-grow-up-to-30000-babies-a-year-scientists-film-shocks-the-internet-543119">‘Artificial womb’ which can grow up to 30,000 babies a year? Scientist’s film shocks the internet</a>

In the fiscal year 2021, 1,184 families availed of this benefit, up from 290 in 2020 and 71 in 2019.&nbsp;

The new strategy which is an update to the 2019 scheme was adopted during a cabinet meeting on Friday. Under it, the government plans to bring the number of movers to 10,000, which will be achieved in five years from fiscal 2023.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Japanese government this year will increase the financial aid for child-rearing families moving from the capital Tokyo's metropolitan area to rural areas with declining birthrates and an ageing population.

The Japanese government this year will increase the financial aid for child-rearing families moving from the capital Tokyo's metropolitan area to rural areas with declining birthrates and an ageing population. As per an Asia Nikkei report, the financial support stands to be raised up to 1 million yen ($7,500) per child from the current 300,000 yen ($2,314). The programme which was launched in the year 2019, encourages families with children to move to areas with low, ageing populations. Watch | Japan innovate robot 'Bex' to help its ageing population People who have resided in 23 wards of Tokyo for more than five years in the last decade are eligible for this aid. Also eligible are parents who have been commuting to these wards from other areas in Tokyo during the same time frame. Every household of movers will in principle receive one million yen. The financial aid increases with every child by an additional 300,000 yen. This aid is conditional on meeting one of three conditions: if they remotely continue with the same work they did prior to re-location, they get employment in a small or midsize company in the area they relocated to or start a new business there. Also read | Japan to pay people to have babies in an attempt to boost declining birth rate Starting in April, a couple with two children will be eligible for up to three million yen, which will not be subject to an income test for support. Applicants have to report to the local government within three months to one year of moving and must live in the relocated area for at least five years. If they move before the end of that period, they'll have to return the aid. Also read | ‘Artificial womb’ which can grow up to 30,000 babies a year? Scientist’s film shocks the internet In the fiscal year 2021, 1,184 families availed of this benefit, up from 290 in 2020 and 71 in 2019. The new strategy which is an update to the 2019 scheme was adopted during a cabinet meeting on Friday. Under it, the government plans to bring the number of movers to 10,000, which will be achieved in five years from fiscal 2023. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan to pay child-rearing families millions to shift from Tokyo to rural areas

At least 30 children have lost their lives to bacterial infection Strep A since September 19, new figures stated.&nbsp;In the weekly update on Strep A, the UKHSA said that in the last four months, there have been scarlet fever's 3,836 notifications, while 122 people of all age groups have lost their lives due to the illness in the same time period.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) stated that almost 25 people, under the age of 18, have lost their lives to the invasive Strep A, also known as iGAS, in England from September 19 to December 25.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strep-a-medics-fear-nhs-will-grapple-with-the-disease-as-seventh-child-died-of-infection-540093">Strep A: Medics fear NHS will grapple with the disease as seventh child dies of infection</a>

The UKHSA also recorded the death of three children in Belfast and Wales from iGAS, bringing the total number of deaths to 30.&nbsp;Strep A is a bacterial infection which usually affects the throat and the skin.

The UKHSA stated that the data reflects an “out-of-season increase” in cases of Strep A and scarlet fever infections in one typical year.

Speaking about the latest figures for Strep A infections, UKHSA incident director Dr Obaghe Edeghere said: “We are continuing to see a rise in scarlet fever and ‘strep throat’ and this is understandably concerning for parents."

WATCH | A new infection called Strep-A is spreading in the UK

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“However I would stress that the condition can be easily treated with antibiotics and it is very rare that a child will go on to become more seriously ill," he added.

“Over the winter, there are lots of illnesses circulating that can make children unwell and so it is important to avoid contact with other people if you are feeling unwell, wash your hands regularly and thoroughly and catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue. I would also urge all those eligible for free winter vaccines to take advantage of these," the doctor stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least 30 children have lost their lives to bacterial infection Strep A since September 19, new figures stated. In the weekly update on Strep A, the UKHSA said that in the last four months, there have been scarlet fever's 3,836 notifications, while 122 people of all age groups have lost their lives due to the illness in the same time period.

At least 30 children have lost their lives to bacterial infection Strep A since September 19, new figures stated. In the weekly update on Strep A, the UKHSA said that in the last four months, there have been scarlet fever's 3,836 notifications, while 122 people of all age groups have lost their lives due to the illness in the same time period. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) stated that almost 25 people, under the age of 18, have lost their lives to the invasive Strep A, also known as iGAS, in England from September 19 to December 25. ALSO READ| Strep A: Medics fear NHS will grapple with the disease as seventh child dies of infection The UKHSA also recorded the death of three children in Belfast and Wales from iGAS, bringing the total number of deaths to 30. Strep A is a bacterial infection which usually affects the throat and the skin. The UKHSA stated that the data reflects an “out-of-season increase” in cases of Strep A and scarlet fever infections in one typical year. Speaking about the latest figures for Strep A infections, UKHSA incident director Dr Obaghe Edeghere said: “We are continuing to see a rise in scarlet fever and ‘strep throat’ and this is understandably concerning for parents." WATCH | A new infection called Strep-A is spreading in the UK “However I would stress that the condition can be easily treated with antibiotics and it is very rare that a child will go on to become more seriously ill," he added. “Over the winter, there are lots of illnesses circulating that can make children unwell and so it is important to avoid contact with other people if you are feeling unwell, wash your hands regularly and thoroughly and catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue. I would also urge all those eligible for free winter vaccines to take advantage of these," the doctor stated. (With inputs from agencies)

Strep A infection has killed around 30 children in the UK since mid-September: UKHSA

In what may be the first of its kind research, a heart surgeon says that he might have saved the life of a baby using stem cells from the placenta to repair a heart condition. The procedure took place in the United Kingdom where a now two-year-old boy Finley was treated using the “allogenic” cells, grown by scientists at the Royal Free Hospital in London.&nbsp;

The heart surgeon and researcher, Professor Massimo Caputo from the Bristol Heart Institute, said that he “probably saved the life” of the baby by using stem cells “scaffolding” to correct the boy’s heart defect, reported BBC. In an interview with the British Heart Foundation, Caputo said that one of his research priorities was using this method to avoid repeated operations for babies and children suffering from congenital heart disease.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ai-predicts-risk-of-heart-disease-with-simple-eye-test-in-less-than-a-minute-says-study-523154">AI predicts risk of heart disease with simple eye test, in less than a minute, says study</a>

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the most common type of birth defect. Present since birth CHD affects the structure of a child’s heart and its functions including the blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. It ranges from “mild (such as a small hole in the heart) to severe (such as missing or poorly formed parts of the heart),” said the CDC. &nbsp;

“Every time you do heart surgery on the same person it gets more risky. Even though we are now getting good outcomes in terms of survival, there is still the risk of complications – infections, damage to the brain or lungs – that can affect quality of life long term. And there is the psychological toll of repeated surgery, too,” said the heart surgeon explaining the long-term risks of surgeries.&nbsp;

According to the Bristol Royal Hospital for Children website, Finley was four days old when he had his first heart surgery after the hospital found that he had the heart condition, “which meant that the two main blood vessels leaving his heart were in the wrong order. The left side of Finley’s heart was also missing coronary arteries which supply blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the heart,” said his mother Melissa.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/doctors-may-have-saved-a-babys-heart-using-umbilical-stem-cells-544783">Doctors may have saved a baby's heart using umbilical stem cells</a>

Subsequently, a 12-hour of surgery was conducted but the boy still needed a heart and lung bypass machine to aid his deteriorating heart function and was placed in an ICU for weeks, she added. Therefore, when all conventional means failed Professor Caputo suggested the stem cell method, in line with which had injected millions of “allogenic” cells directly into Finley’s heart hoping it would help blood vessels grow.&nbsp;

“We are trying to create living tissue, whether it’s a valve or a blood vessel or a patch, that will grow with the child, and that does not deteriorate. I think that would massively change their quality of life,” he previously said in an interview with BHF.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/world-heart-day-2022-theme-history-and-everything-you-need-to-know-520681">World Heart Day 2022: Theme, history, and everything you need to know&nbsp;</a> 
 
While allogenic stem transplant uses cells collected from a donor, they are matched with the patient in order to suppress the disease and restore the patient's immune system as well as have the ability to grow into tissue. Subsequently, it was not rejected in Finley’s case and worked to regenerate the damaged heart muscle.&nbsp;

On the other hand, artificial tissue is typically used to repair cardiac abnormalities in babies but it does not grow with the heart and as the child grows up, they would require additional operations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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In what may be the first of its kind research, a heart surgeon says that he might have saved the life of a baby using stem cells from the placenta to repair a heart condition.

In what may be the first of its kind research, a heart surgeon says that he might have saved the life of a baby using stem cells from the placenta to repair a heart condition. The procedure took place in the United Kingdom where a now two-year-old boy Finley was treated using the “allogenic” cells, grown by scientists at the Royal Free Hospital in London. The heart surgeon and researcher, Professor Massimo Caputo from the Bristol Heart Institute, said that he “probably saved the life” of the baby by using stem cells “scaffolding” to correct the boy’s heart defect, reported BBC. In an interview with the British Heart Foundation, Caputo said that one of his research priorities was using this method to avoid repeated operations for babies and children suffering from congenital heart disease. ALSO READ | AI predicts risk of heart disease with simple eye test, in less than a minute, says study According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the most common type of birth defect. Present since birth CHD affects the structure of a child’s heart and its functions including the blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. It ranges from “mild (such as a small hole in the heart) to severe (such as missing or poorly formed parts of the heart),” said the CDC. “Every time you do heart surgery on the same person it gets more risky. Even though we are now getting good outcomes in terms of survival, there is still the risk of complications – infections, damage to the brain or lungs – that can affect quality of life long term. And there is the psychological toll of repeated surgery, too,” said the heart surgeon explaining the long-term risks of surgeries. According to the Bristol Royal Hospital for Children website, Finley was four days old when he had his first heart surgery after the hospital found that he had the heart condition, “which meant that the two main blood vessels leaving his heart were in the wrong order. The left side of Finley’s heart was also missing coronary arteries which supply blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the heart,” said his mother Melissa. ALSO WATCH | Doctors may have saved a baby's heart using umbilical stem cells Subsequently, a 12-hour of surgery was conducted but the boy still needed a heart and lung bypass machine to aid his deteriorating heart function and was placed in an ICU for weeks, she added. Therefore, when all conventional means failed Professor Caputo suggested the stem cell method, in line with which had injected millions of “allogenic” cells directly into Finley’s heart hoping it would help blood vessels grow. “We are trying to create living tissue, whether it’s a valve or a blood vessel or a patch, that will grow with the child, and that does not deteriorate. I think that would massively change their quality of life,” he previously said in an interview with BHF. ALSO READ | World Heart Day 2022: Theme, history, and everything you need to know While allogenic stem transplant uses cells collected from a donor, they are matched with the patient in order to suppress the disease and restore the patient's immune system as well as have the ability to grow into tissue. Subsequently, it was not rejected in Finley’s case and worked to regenerate the damaged heart muscle. On the other hand, artificial tissue is typically used to repair cardiac abnormalities in babies but it does not grow with the heart and as the child grows up, they would require additional operations. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

In a first, doctor may have saved a baby’s life by repairing heart using umbilical stem cells

The British government interestingly is changing the date of birth of child asylum seekers to classify them as adults now. Many children have been wrongly sent to a notorious manston camp in Kent and have been detained in what have been described as unsafe conditions.

UK: Home office alters age of children seeking asylum, minors detained in unsafe conditions

With ten deaths over the last month and a sharp spike in cases, India’s financial capital city Mumbai is staring at a&nbsp;measles&nbsp;outbreak.&nbsp;

Until November 24, 2022, Mumbai has reported 252 &nbsp;confirmed cases.&nbsp;

Measles&nbsp;is a common infectious disease, especially among children, in which your body feels hot and your skin is covered in small red spots.

Children aged between 09 months to 5 years are mostly affected by&nbsp;measles.

In Mumbai, this is a huge jump from the last two years. In 2019, the city saw 25&nbsp;measles&nbsp;cases and in 2020, only nine were reported the entire year. But this year, in less than two months, 233 cases are reported.

In Mumbai, there are seven hotspot areas currently - Dharavi, Govandi, Kurla, Mahim, Bandra, and Matunga reporting the maximum number of cases.

“The start of the outbreak was indicated in October when the city reported 60 cases as against a mere 25 in September this year. That is when we decided we need to start surveying slum areas which are reporting maximum cases,” said Dr Mangala Gomare, Executive Health Officer, BMC.

Surveys revealed that due to the pandemic,&nbsp;measles&nbsp;vaccination of children got affected. Close to 20,000 children missed their&nbsp;measles&nbsp;vaccine.

“Our survey report suggested that only 41% of the eligible children had taken vaccination. We have started to raise awareness in these slum areas and track the children who have missed them. We are holding vaccination camps for them too,” said Dr Gomare to WION.

The BMC has issued an advisory stating that ‘Given Measles&nbsp;outbreak in Mumbai all the citizens are appealed to vaccinate their children between 9 months to 5 years of age with&nbsp;Measles&nbsp;containing vaccine.’

To contain the spread, vaccination camps, door-to-door surveys, and awareness sessions are being held by the city administration.

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With ten deaths over the last month and a sharp spike in cases, India’s financial capital city Mumbai is staring at a measles outbreak. Until November 24, 2022, Mumbai has reported 252 confirmed cases.

With ten deaths over the last month and a sharp spike in cases, India’s financial capital city Mumbai is staring at a measles outbreak. Until November 24, 2022, Mumbai has reported 252 confirmed cases. Measles is a common infectious disease, especially among children, in which your body feels hot and your skin is covered in small red spots. Children aged between 09 months to 5 years are mostly affected by measles. In Mumbai, this is a huge jump from the last two years. In 2019, the city saw 25 measles cases and in 2020, only nine were reported the entire year. But this year, in less than two months, 233 cases are reported. In Mumbai, there are seven hotspot areas currently - Dharavi, Govandi, Kurla, Mahim, Bandra, and Matunga reporting the maximum number of cases. “The start of the outbreak was indicated in October when the city reported 60 cases as against a mere 25 in September this year. That is when we decided we need to start surveying slum areas which are reporting maximum cases,” said Dr Mangala Gomare, Executive Health Officer, BMC. Surveys revealed that due to the pandemic, measles vaccination of children got affected. Close to 20,000 children missed their measles vaccine. “Our survey report suggested that only 41% of the eligible children had taken vaccination. We have started to raise awareness in these slum areas and track the children who have missed them. We are holding vaccination camps for them too,” said Dr Gomare to WION. The BMC has issued an advisory stating that ‘Given Measles outbreak in Mumbai all the citizens are appealed to vaccinate their children between 9 months to 5 years of age with Measles containing vaccine.’ To contain the spread, vaccination camps, door-to-door surveys, and awareness sessions are being held by the city administration. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Mumbai scrambles to contain measles outbreak as virus kills 10 children

One teacher and 11 school students sustained injuries after a science experiment went wrong in Sydney on Monday. Two students were seriously hurt as they suffered burns to their face and chest while the others were rushed to the Royal North Shore and Northern Beaches hospitals. According to the local media reports, the team from the Manly West public school were trying to create a “sugar snake” with baking soda, a sugar mixture and an accelerant but the erratic winds on the beach ended up causing the accident. The emergency cases were airlifted to Westmead children’s hospital.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strong-earthquake-jolts-indonesias-capital-jakarta-535980">At least 44 killed, 300 injured after strong earthquake jolts Indonesia</a>

“We received multiple triple zero calls reporting that a number of children had sustained burns during a science experiment, which was being conducted outside,”&nbsp;New South Wales Ambulance Acting Supt, Phil Templeman&nbsp;told The Guardian about the accident and its possible cause.&nbsp;

“Today’s high winds have impacted the experiment and blown some of the materials around. The children have sustained burns to the upper body, chest, face and legs. Thankfully, the majority of the students were not badly injured,” he added and made it clear that a probe is already underway.&nbsp;

&nbsp;While both the local authorities and the Fire and Rescue NSW officers were at the beach for quite some time after the incident, it was soon opened for visitors without any more warning.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-strikes-kurdish-groups-in-iraq-in-fresh-overnight-attacks-535955">Iran strikes Kurdish groups in Iraq in fresh overnight attacks, one dead</a>

NSW education minister Sarah Mitchell visited the site and sympathised with the victims.&nbsp;

“My thoughts are with the students and staff affected by today’s incident at Manly West public school. Investigations into the incident will be undertaken by the relevant authorities, including the Department of Education and NSW police. In addition, SafeWork NSW has been notified and they will carry out their own investigation in due course,” she told reporters according to The Guardian.&nbsp;

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One teacher and 11 school students sustained injuries after a science experiment went wrong in Sydney on Monday. Two students were seriously hurt as they suffered burns to their face and chest while the others were rushed to the Royal North Shore and Northern Beaches hospitals.

One teacher and 11 school students sustained injuries after a science experiment went wrong in Sydney on Monday. Two students were seriously hurt as they suffered burns to their face and chest while the others were rushed to the Royal North Shore and Northern Beaches hospitals. According to the local media reports, the team from the Manly West public school were trying to create a “sugar snake” with baking soda, a sugar mixture and an accelerant but the erratic winds on the beach ended up causing the accident. The emergency cases were airlifted to Westmead children’s hospital. Also read | At least 44 killed, 300 injured after strong earthquake jolts Indonesia “We received multiple triple zero calls reporting that a number of children had sustained burns during a science experiment, which was being conducted outside,” New South Wales Ambulance Acting Supt, Phil Templeman told The Guardian about the accident and its possible cause. “Today’s high winds have impacted the experiment and blown some of the materials around. The children have sustained burns to the upper body, chest, face and legs. Thankfully, the majority of the students were not badly injured,” he added and made it clear that a probe is already underway. While both the local authorities and the Fire and Rescue NSW officers were at the beach for quite some time after the incident, it was soon opened for visitors without any more warning. Also read | Iran strikes Kurdish groups in Iraq in fresh overnight attacks, one dead NSW education minister Sarah Mitchell visited the site and sympathised with the victims. “My thoughts are with the students and staff affected by today’s incident at Manly West public school. Investigations into the incident will be undertaken by the relevant authorities, including the Department of Education and NSW police. In addition, SafeWork NSW has been notified and they will carry out their own investigation in due course,” she told reporters according to The Guardian.

Children suffer burns to face and chest after science experiment goes wrong in Sydney

New figures released under the Freedom of Information request made by a UK non-profit&nbsp;Action on Armed Violence (AOAV) has found that the government had hid the number of killed Afghan children and compensation paid for the casualties.&nbsp;The new figures state that the UK government released compensation payments for 64 children, which was four times more than the publicly acknowledged figure of 16.&nbsp;

The records show that the youngest casualty was a one-year-old child and the oldest was 15. the average age of children killed stood at six.&nbsp;

Nearly all children were killed by Britain's top forces between 2006 and 2014. However,&nbsp; AOAV is of the view that the numbers could go up to 135.

The NGO said that the Ministry of Defence, in most cases, described fatalities as merely sons and daughters. The ages and circumstances of the death were not included.&nbsp;

“In total, some 164 people (adults and children) were killed in those attacks involving confirmed or suspected children. Some 68 of the 135 confirmed and suspected child deaths were from airstrikes, constituting some 50 per cent of all deaths,” said&nbsp;AOAV.&nbsp;

In total, 881 fatality claims were made to the British government out of which most were rejected and only a quarter received compensation.&nbsp;

As reported by WION, in July, a BBC investigation also showed that Britain's elite Special Air Service (SAS) corps had killed at least 54 Afghans in suspicious circumstances.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/britains-elite-special-air-service-corps-killed-at-least-54-afghans-in-suspicious-circumstances-report-496653">Read more:&nbsp;Britain's elite Special Air Service corps killed at least 54 Afghans in suspicious circumstances: Report</a>

Citing military sources, the report noted that senior officers including General Mark Carleton-Smith were aware of concerns within the SAS about the operations.

Based on leaked emails, court documents as well investigations on the sites of the operations in Afghanistan, the BBC programme "Panorama" questions the conduct of UK forces in Afghanistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-british-contractors-live-in-hiding-in-afghanistan-494768">WATCH |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | British contractors live in hiding in Afghanistan</a>

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Previously, the British ministry of defence conducted an investigation into the claims but found insufficient evidence to press&nbsp;charges.

(With inputs from agencies)

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New figures released under the Freedom of Information request made by a UK non-profit Action on Armed Violence (AOAV) has found that the government had hid the number of killed Afghan children and compensation paid for the casualties.

New figures released under the Freedom of Information request made by a UK non-profit Action on Armed Violence (AOAV) has found that the government had hid the number of killed Afghan children and compensation paid for the casualties. The new figures state that the UK government released compensation payments for 64 children, which was four times more than the publicly acknowledged figure of 16. The records show that the youngest casualty was a one-year-old child and the oldest was 15. the average age of children killed stood at six. Nearly all children were killed by Britain's top forces between 2006 and 2014. However, AOAV is of the view that the numbers could go up to 135. The NGO said that the Ministry of Defence, in most cases, described fatalities as merely sons and daughters. The ages and circumstances of the death were not included. “In total, some 164 people (adults and children) were killed in those attacks involving confirmed or suspected children. Some 68 of the 135 confirmed and suspected child deaths were from airstrikes, constituting some 50 per cent of all deaths,” said AOAV. In total, 881 fatality claims were made to the British government out of which most were rejected and only a quarter received compensation. As reported by WION, in July, a BBC investigation also showed that Britain's elite Special Air Service (SAS) corps had killed at least 54 Afghans in suspicious circumstances. Read more: Britain's elite Special Air Service corps killed at least 54 Afghans in suspicious circumstances: Report Citing military sources, the report noted that senior officers including General Mark Carleton-Smith were aware of concerns within the SAS about the operations. Based on leaked emails, court documents as well investigations on the sites of the operations in Afghanistan, the BBC programme "Panorama" questions the conduct of UK forces in Afghanistan. WATCH | WION Fineprint | British contractors live in hiding in Afghanistan × Previously, the British ministry of defence conducted an investigation into the claims but found insufficient evidence to press charges. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

British forces killed more children in Afghanistan than it previously acknowledged: Report

Let us take a look at stories generating interest across WION's social media channels.

Trending on WION | Shakira gets custody of children; Elon Musk sells Twitter shares worth $4 billion

Poor air quality threatens the health of all living beings from humans to even plants. In Sydney, scientists are now monitoring the air quality inside schools to see if it is healthy for children.

WION Climate Tracker: Scientists in Sydney study air quality in classrooms

A restaurant in Singapore recently informed its customers that it will be charging a 'Screaming children surcharge' if any customer's kids are found screaming. Is the restaurant justified in doing so?

Restaurant imposes ‘screaming children surcharge’

In Oklahoma, a house fire claimed the lives of eight people, including six children, and authorities said on&nbsp;Friday that they were looking into a murder-suicide angle.&nbsp;

Fire firefighters were called to the location on&nbsp;Thursday around 4 p.m. when the fire&nbsp;broke out in Broken Arrow, which is near Tulsa.

Rescue&nbsp;crews discovered two adults and six children, aged&nbsp;1 to 13 inside.&nbsp;

“At this time we do not believe that any of the victims died from the fire, however the final determination for the cause of death will be made by the medical examiner," Broken Arrow Fire Chief Jeremy Moore said in a news briefing on Friday.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paul-pelosi-undergoes-successful-skull-surgery-biden-calls-attack-despicable-529299">Paul Pelosi undergoes 'successful skull surgery', Biden calls attack 'despicable'</a>

Two individuals were discovered dead in the home on Friday, according to Broken Arrow Police Chief Brandon Berryhill, and are being looked into as potential suspects in the murder-suicide.

Prior to notifying the victims' next of kin, the identities of the victims were not made public.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/plane-engine-catches-fire-just-when-it-was-about-to-take-off-from-delhi-airport-529367">Firefighters</a> discovered smoke and flames in the home's back yard when they arrived, according to Moore.

“It did become obvious to all the fire personnel on scene that this was a crime scene, and so once the initial fire was knocked down, our crews moved to preserve the evidence, to preserve the crime scene for our fire investigators and the police department,” Moore said.

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In Oklahoma, a house fire claimed the lives of eight people, including six children, and authorities said on Friday that they were looking into a murder-suicide angle.

In Oklahoma, a house fire claimed the lives of eight people, including six children, and authorities said on Friday that they were looking into a murder-suicide angle. Fire firefighters were called to the location on Thursday around 4 p.m. when the fire broke out in Broken Arrow, which is near Tulsa. Rescue crews discovered two adults and six children, aged 1 to 13 inside. “At this time we do not believe that any of the victims died from the fire, however the final determination for the cause of death will be made by the medical examiner," Broken Arrow Fire Chief Jeremy Moore said in a news briefing on Friday. Also read | Paul Pelosi undergoes 'successful skull surgery', Biden calls attack 'despicable' Two individuals were discovered dead in the home on Friday, according to Broken Arrow Police Chief Brandon Berryhill, and are being looked into as potential suspects in the murder-suicide. Prior to notifying the victims' next of kin, the identities of the victims were not made public. Firefighters discovered smoke and flames in the home's back yard when they arrived, according to Moore. “It did become obvious to all the fire personnel on scene that this was a crime scene, and so once the initial fire was knocked down, our crews moved to preserve the evidence, to preserve the crime scene for our fire investigators and the police department,” Moore said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: Six children die in suspected murder-suicide case at Oklahoma home

The Indian government has introduced a new foundational curriculum framework that will allow children between the ages of three and six to learn without textbooks. The curriculum will instead focus on learning through toys, lived experiences, the use of mother tongues, and stories of Indian heroes.&nbsp;

According to the announcement made by education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, “books incorporating diversity, gender, moral and ethical awareness, and assessment through observation and analysing creativity” will be allowed for the kids but there will not be made compulsory.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-politics-live-updates-johnson-sunak-and-mordaunt-lead-race-for-new-pm-527380">UK Politics LIVE: Rishi Sunak leads race to become new Prime Minister</a>

The National Curriculum Framework (NCF) will be implemented for children between 3 and 8 in New Delhi. Depending on the success of the new system, it will be expanded to all parts of the country, Pradhan said in his interaction with reporters.&nbsp;

“It was the most important and challenging task to develop the first framework for the foundational stage because research has shown that over 85% of an individual’s brain development occurs by the age of 6-8 years. Therefore, it is very important what they should be taught and learn in that age group.”&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/infosys-allows-employees-to-do-gig-work-after-proper-permission-from-managers-527395" hreflang="en">Infosys allows employees to do "gig work" after proper permission from managers</a>

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) was also instructed to take note of the new framework and create books accordingly to help the kids in understanding the process.&nbsp;

“In the first three years of the foundational stage, for ages three to six, there should not be any prescribed textbooks for the children…children in this age group should not be burdened with textbooks. While textbooks might be inappropriate for children of ages 3 to 6, activity books can guide teachers to sequence activities and learning experiences,” the curriculum framework stated.&nbsp;

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The Indian government has introduced a new foundational curriculum framework that will allow children between the ages of three and six to learn without textbooks.

The Indian government has introduced a new foundational curriculum framework that will allow children between the ages of three and six to learn without textbooks. The curriculum will instead focus on learning through toys, lived experiences, the use of mother tongues, and stories of Indian heroes. According to the announcement made by education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, “books incorporating diversity, gender, moral and ethical awareness, and assessment through observation and analysing creativity” will be allowed for the kids but there will not be made compulsory. Also read | UK Politics LIVE: Rishi Sunak leads race to become new Prime Minister The National Curriculum Framework (NCF) will be implemented for children between 3 and 8 in New Delhi. Depending on the success of the new system, it will be expanded to all parts of the country, Pradhan said in his interaction with reporters. “It was the most important and challenging task to develop the first framework for the foundational stage because research has shown that over 85% of an individual’s brain development occurs by the age of 6-8 years. Therefore, it is very important what they should be taught and learn in that age group.” Also read | Infosys allows employees to do "gig work" after proper permission from managers The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) was also instructed to take note of the new framework and create books accordingly to help the kids in understanding the process. “In the first three years of the foundational stage, for ages three to six, there should not be any prescribed textbooks for the children…children in this age group should not be burdened with textbooks. While textbooks might be inappropriate for children of ages 3 to 6, activity books can guide teachers to sequence activities and learning experiences,” the curriculum framework stated.

No textbooks for children under six in new curriculum introduced in India

An overloaded ferry carrying school children reportedly sank in a river resulting in the deaths of 10-11 children in Cambodia. The incident took place in the Campbell Province about 53 kilometers southeast of the capital of Nam Fen.

Cambodia Boat Mishap: At least 11 children dead after boat sinks in Kandal province

A study has found that playing with mud helps children build resilience against allergies, asthma, and anxiety. Where does this leave today's children who spend more time with gadgets than playing outdoors?

Gravitas: Study says playing with mud is good for children

There has been a lot of back and forth on whether parents should let their kids play in the mud or dirt but studies have suggested that not letting kids get dirty once in a while might backfire. A report by BBC citing a recent study has shown how playing with mud and dirt can actually train a child’s immune system to fight against a range of illnesses like allergies and asthma.&nbsp;

The report also claims that it can be beneficial for a child’s mental health by making them more resilient against anxiety and depression. The study shows how staying outdoors and playing with certain natural materials like soil or mud which contain powerful microorganisms can have a positive impact on a child’s health and well-being.&nbsp;

“Mud play” and health

A report by Healthline, also citing multiple studies, proposes what they call “mud play”, they elucidate by saying that it is like playing in a box of sand or on a beach, except it is with mud which is damp or wet dirt.&nbsp;

They claim that studies have shown how playing in mud is actually good for a child’s health as opposed to them living in a clean environment which on the contrary can lead to the risk of illnesses like allergies and asthma.&nbsp;

Germs found in mud may actually strengthen a child’s immune system, citing research from 2014, the report shows that even when young children were exposed to dust, pet dander and other allergens before the age of one they were less likely to develop allergies and wheezing later in childhood.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/signs-of-dementia-can-be-detected-at-least-nine-years-prior-to-official-diagnosis-says-study-525111">Signs of dementia can be detected at least nine years prior to official diagnosis, says study</a>

On the other hand, a 2016 study showed that children raised on non-industrial farms were less likely to develop asthma when compared to those who weren’t. The report by BBC shows how the recent study offers a fresh take on the "hygiene hypothesis".&nbsp;

According to this idea, the major reduction in childhood infections in the 20th century had a side effect on people’s immune systems, like them becoming overactive to stimulations which supposedly resulted in the rise of asthma, allergies and hay fever, said the report. However, many scientists, BBC said, dislike the idea as they believe it undermines and even discourages the importance of behaviours like hand-washing.&nbsp;

Another piece by Healthline citing the Center for Ecogenetics and Environmental Health said that there are 100 trillion microbes, many of which are beneficial for digesting food, producing vitamins, and even fighting bad bacteria.&nbsp;

They note that over time, especially during childhood humans develop a baseline microbiome (several microbes living in and on one's body) which is different for everyone and playing in the dirt can help “replenish beneficial microbes”. This in turn maintains the baseline of the microbiome and a healthy balance between good and bad bacteria said the report.&nbsp;

Another interesting study by Michele Antonelli, a doctor from Reggio Emilia, a city in Italy, whose area of research includes how mud therapies can influence health, indicates that the microbes found in mud can act on and through our skin.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/significant-milestone-hole-in-the-ozone-layer-will-close-in-the-next-50-years-520882">'Significant milestone': Hole in the ozone layer will close in the next 50 years</a>

According to him, our outer layer of skin is home to a host of species of microbes and people with skin disorders like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis seem to lack this community of organisms. “These microorganisms can play a major role in many major chronic diseases,” said Antonelli, reported by BBC.&nbsp;

Playing in mud improves mental health?

A 2007 study titled, “Identification of an immune-responsive mesolimbocortical serotonergic system: Potential role in regulation of emotional behavior” found that dirt contains a harmless bacteria called, “Mycobacterium vaccae” which the study claims can stimulate serotonin production in the brain.&nbsp;

“Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that controls mood and other body functions. It’s thought that low serotonin levels may contribute to anxiety and depression,” said the report by Healthline. Furthermore, playing in dirt and mud also reportedly supports sensory development in children.&nbsp;

It added that temperatures and textures of dirt stimulate the sense of touch while the earthy scent can invigorate a child’s sense of smell. Additionally, interacting with nature and its various colours can stimulate a child’s sense of sight while listening to a variety of natural sounds can help develop their sense of hearing, the report indicated.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the media report shows that playing in the dirt can reduce bodily reactions like inflammation. They elucidated this idea by saying that since inflammation is our body’s first defence against infection which is used to help us prepare for potential physical injury when threatened, it is less useful in the kinds of stress that we face today.&nbsp;

This was based on a study titled, “Less immune activation following social stress in rural vs. urban participants raised with regular or no animal contact, respectively”. According to this research, people who spent the majority of their childhood in a rural setting show a muted response to social stress like public speaking when compared to their urban counterparts.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-forever-chemicals-in-every-umbilical-cord-blood-sample-across-40-studies-519298">Scientists find 'forever chemicals' in every umbilical cord blood sample across 40 studies</a>

In the long term, it has serious consequences, since chronic bodily inflammation can contribute to a range of conditions including the risk of depression, said the report. The study’s co-author Christopher A. Lowry also described those who grew up in the city as “walking time bombs” in the context of their inflammation.&nbsp;

Reports also suggest that mud play can be used as a teaching tool where it can help children boost their creativity, imagination, independent learning as well as teamwork.&nbsp;

Word of caution

While several studies and research have shown the various benefits of playing in mud and dirt, it is still dirt. Therefore, the reports also warn that not all mud or dirt is safe, saying that kids should be kept away from areas used by dogs or cats as bathrooms or places where farm animals graze.&nbsp;

Reports also suggest that children should not play with dirt treated with chemicals and pesticides and areas near petrol pumps and factories should also be avoided. Meanwhile, doctors also warn against letting children eat too much mud and indicate that mud getting in their eyes, nose and ears should also be avoided.&nbsp;

There has been a lot of back and forth on whether parents should let their kids play in the mud or dirt but studies have suggested that not letting kids get dirty once in a while might backfire.

There has been a lot of back and forth on whether parents should let their kids play in the mud or dirt but studies have suggested that not letting kids get dirty once in a while might backfire. A report by BBC citing a recent study has shown how playing with mud and dirt can actually train a child’s immune system to fight against a range of illnesses like allergies and asthma. The report also claims that it can be beneficial for a child’s mental health by making them more resilient against anxiety and depression. The study shows how staying outdoors and playing with certain natural materials like soil or mud which contain powerful microorganisms can have a positive impact on a child’s health and well-being. “Mud play” and health A report by Healthline, also citing multiple studies, proposes what they call “mud play”, they elucidate by saying that it is like playing in a box of sand or on a beach, except it is with mud which is damp or wet dirt. They claim that studies have shown how playing in mud is actually good for a child’s health as opposed to them living in a clean environment which on the contrary can lead to the risk of illnesses like allergies and asthma. Germs found in mud may actually strengthen a child’s immune system, citing research from 2014, the report shows that even when young children were exposed to dust, pet dander and other allergens before the age of one they were less likely to develop allergies and wheezing later in childhood. ALSO READ: Signs of dementia can be detected at least nine years prior to official diagnosis, says study On the other hand, a 2016 study showed that children raised on non-industrial farms were less likely to develop asthma when compared to those who weren’t. The report by BBC shows how the recent study offers a fresh take on the "hygiene hypothesis". According to this idea, the major reduction in childhood infections in the 20th century had a side effect on people’s immune systems, like them becoming overactive to stimulations which supposedly resulted in the rise of asthma, allergies and hay fever, said the report. However, many scientists, BBC said, dislike the idea as they believe it undermines and even discourages the importance of behaviours like hand-washing. Another piece by Healthline citing the Center for Ecogenetics and Environmental Health said that there are 100 trillion microbes, many of which are beneficial for digesting food, producing vitamins, and even fighting bad bacteria. They note that over time, especially during childhood humans develop a baseline microbiome (several microbes living in and on one's body) which is different for everyone and playing in the dirt can help “replenish beneficial microbes”. This in turn maintains the baseline of the microbiome and a healthy balance between good and bad bacteria said the report. Another interesting study by Michele Antonelli, a doctor from Reggio Emilia, a city in Italy, whose area of research includes how mud therapies can influence health, indicates that the microbes found in mud can act on and through our skin. ALSO READ: 'Significant milestone': Hole in the ozone layer will close in the next 50 years According to him, our outer layer of skin is home to a host of species of microbes and people with skin disorders like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis seem to lack this community of organisms. “These microorganisms can play a major role in many major chronic diseases,” said Antonelli, reported by BBC. Playing in mud improves mental health? A 2007 study titled, “Identification of an immune-responsive mesolimbocortical serotonergic system: Potential role in regulation of emotional behavior” found that dirt contains a harmless bacteria called, “Mycobacterium vaccae” which the study claims can stimulate serotonin production in the brain. “Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that controls mood and other body functions. It’s thought that low serotonin levels may contribute to anxiety and depression,” said the report by Healthline. Furthermore, playing in dirt and mud also reportedly supports sensory development in children. It added that temperatures and textures of dirt stimulate the sense of touch while the earthy scent can invigorate a child’s sense of smell. Additionally, interacting with nature and its various colours can stimulate a child’s sense of sight while listening to a variety of natural sounds can help develop their sense of hearing, the report indicated. On the other hand, the media report shows that playing in the dirt can reduce bodily reactions like inflammation. They elucidated this idea by saying that since inflammation is our body’s first defence against infection which is used to help us prepare for potential physical injury when threatened, it is less useful in the kinds of stress that we face today. This was based on a study titled, “Less immune activation following social stress in rural vs. urban participants raised with regular or no animal contact, respectively”. According to this research, people who spent the majority of their childhood in a rural setting show a muted response to social stress like public speaking when compared to their urban counterparts. ALSO READ: Scientists find 'forever chemicals' in every umbilical cord blood sample across 40 studies In the long term, it has serious consequences, since chronic bodily inflammation can contribute to a range of conditions including the risk of depression, said the report. The study’s co-author Christopher A. Lowry also described those who grew up in the city as “walking time bombs” in the context of their inflammation. Reports also suggest that mud play can be used as a teaching tool where it can help children boost their creativity, imagination, independent learning as well as teamwork. Word of caution While several studies and research have shown the various benefits of playing in mud and dirt, it is still dirt. Therefore, the reports also warn that not all mud or dirt is safe, saying that kids should be kept away from areas used by dogs or cats as bathrooms or places where farm animals graze. Reports also suggest that children should not play with dirt treated with chemicals and pesticides and areas near petrol pumps and factories should also be avoided. Meanwhile, doctors also warn against letting children eat too much mud and indicate that mud getting in their eyes, nose and ears should also be avoided.

Is playing in mud good for kids? Here’s what studies have to say

TikTok could face a 27 million-pound ($29 million) fine in the Britain over a possible breach of data protection law by failing to protect children's privacy when they are using the video-sharing platform.

WION Business News | TikTok fails to protect children's policy, UK to fine video-sharing platform

Short video sharing platform TikTok is staring at a $29 million fine in UK for endangering and failing to protect the identities of children on its platform. The China-based company was found wanting after an investigation carried out by UK's Information Commissioner Office (ICO).&nbsp;

The regulator in its provisional view asserted that the Bytedance-led platform may have processed data of children under the age of 13 without parental consent.&nbsp;Reportedly, Information Commissioner John Edwards in his findings said TikTok fell short of meeting data privacy protection requirements.

"We all want children to be able to learn and experience the digital world, but with proper data privacy protections. Companies providing digital services have a legal duty to put those protections in place, but our provisional view is that TikTok fell short of meeting that requirement," said Edwards.

Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-wanted-to-open-tiktok-account-to-promote-propaganda-report-501963">&nbsp;China wanted to open TikTok account to promote propaganda: Report</a>

Consequently, the company has been slapped with a 'notice of intent' which is dubbed as a precursor to the fine, which could total up to $29 million or four per cent of the company's global annual turnover. In the process, TikTok has become one of the first social media companies to be issued such a formal notice.

TikTok in response said it will challenge the notice, "This Notice of Intent, covering the period May 2018-July 2020, is provisional and as the ICO itself has stated, no final conclusions can be drawn at this time," said a company spokesperson.

"While we respect the ICO's role in safeguarding privacy in the UK, we disagree with the preliminary views expressed and intend to formally respond to the ICO in due course," the company added.&nbsp;

This is not the first time that TikTok has been asked to cough up fines related to child privacy matters. In&nbsp;early 2019, the company agreed to pay $5.7 million to US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to settle accusations that it had collected personal information of children on its platform by illegal means.&nbsp;

Read more<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-under-fire-for-promoting-weight-loss-aids-to-children-518566">:&nbsp;TikTok under fire for promoting weight loss aids to children</a>

According to the US Department of Justice, TikTok had violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), under which websites and social media platforms such as TikTok are required to obtain parental consent before harvesting the personal information of minors.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Short video sharing platform TikTok is staring at a $29 million fine in UK for endangering and failing to protect the identities of children on its platform. The China-based company was found wanting after an investigation carried out by UK's Information Commissioner Office (ICO).

Short video sharing platform TikTok is staring at a $29 million fine in UK for endangering and failing to protect the identities of children on its platform. The China-based company was found wanting after an investigation carried out by UK's Information Commissioner Office (ICO). The regulator in its provisional view asserted that the Bytedance-led platform may have processed data of children under the age of 13 without parental consent. Reportedly, Information Commissioner John Edwards in his findings said TikTok fell short of meeting data privacy protection requirements. "We all want children to be able to learn and experience the digital world, but with proper data privacy protections. Companies providing digital services have a legal duty to put those protections in place, but our provisional view is that TikTok fell short of meeting that requirement," said Edwards. Read more: China wanted to open TikTok account to promote propaganda: Report Consequently, the company has been slapped with a 'notice of intent' which is dubbed as a precursor to the fine, which could total up to $29 million or four per cent of the company's global annual turnover. In the process, TikTok has become one of the first social media companies to be issued such a formal notice. TikTok in response said it will challenge the notice, "This Notice of Intent, covering the period May 2018-July 2020, is provisional and as the ICO itself has stated, no final conclusions can be drawn at this time," said a company spokesperson. "While we respect the ICO's role in safeguarding privacy in the UK, we disagree with the preliminary views expressed and intend to formally respond to the ICO in due course," the company added. This is not the first time that TikTok has been asked to cough up fines related to child privacy matters. In early 2019, the company agreed to pay $5.7 million to US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to settle accusations that it had collected personal information of children on its platform by illegal means. Read more: TikTok under fire for promoting weight loss aids to children According to the US Department of Justice, TikTok had violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), under which websites and social media platforms such as TikTok are required to obtain parental consent before harvesting the personal information of minors. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

TikTok could face $29 million in fines in UK for endangering children's privacy

A teen girl who appeared on state TV during a recent event in North Korea has caught everyone’s attention, leading many to believe that she may be the country's leader Kim Jong-un’s reclusive and only daughter rumoured to be named Ju-ae.

UK’s Daily Mail newspaper reported that she was seen among a group of other children attending the anniversary of the founding of North Korea earlier this month.

She was performing a song at the event, which saw the attendance of Kim and his wife Ri Sol-ju.

During her performance, something stood out, experts noted.

A self-proclaimed North Korean analyst of InDPRK.com blog, which identifies itself as a North Korean travel agency, pointed to the actions of Ri Sol-ju concerning this girl.

She was seen patting the kid's back and talking to her personally, while Ju-ae "appeared calmer". At that time, the other children were seen huddling around the North Korean dictator and jumping excitedly.

Notably, it is said that the girl also stood out because of her attire, as she was the only one with her hair down and donning white socks.

Moreover, the camera seemed to focus more on her, lingering for several seconds when the song began and returning to her frequently.

According to local reports, Ju-ae is believed to have been born in 2013.

Little is known about Kim Jong-un's children. The fact that he has a daughter was first revealed by Kim's friend and basketball star Dennis Rodman after his visit to the hermit country in 2013.

That would make the girl around nine or 10 years old —which matches up with the child in the new video, Pyongyang experts noted.

In 2017, South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that Kim has three children with Ri. The first one is a son born in 2010, and the youngest is a child born in early 2017, whose gender is yet to be confirmed. Ju-ae is said to be the middle child.

(With inputs from agencies)

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<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A teen girl who appeared on state TV during a recent event in North Korea has caught everyone’s attention, leading many to believe that she may be the country's leader Kim Jong-un’s reclusive and only daughter rumoured to be named Ju-ae.

A teen girl who appeared on state TV during a recent event in North Korea has caught everyone’s attention, leading many to believe that she may be the country's leader Kim Jong-un’s reclusive and only daughter rumoured to be named Ju-ae. UK’s Daily Mail newspaper reported that she was seen among a group of other children attending the anniversary of the founding of North Korea earlier this month. She was performing a song at the event, which saw the attendance of Kim and his wife Ri Sol-ju. During her performance, something stood out, experts noted. A self-proclaimed North Korean analyst of InDPRK.com blog, which identifies itself as a North Korean travel agency, pointed to the actions of Ri Sol-ju concerning this girl. She was seen patting the kid's back and talking to her personally, while Ju-ae "appeared calmer". At that time, the other children were seen huddling around the North Korean dictator and jumping excitedly. Notably, it is said that the girl also stood out because of her attire, as she was the only one with her hair down and donning white socks. Moreover, the camera seemed to focus more on her, lingering for several seconds when the song began and returning to her frequently. According to local reports, Ju-ae is believed to have been born in 2013. Little is known about Kim Jong-un's children. The fact that he has a daughter was first revealed by Kim's friend and basketball star Dennis Rodman after his visit to the hermit country in 2013. That would make the girl around nine or 10 years old —which matches up with the child in the new video, Pyongyang experts noted. In 2017, South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that Kim has three children with Ri. The first one is a son born in 2010, and the youngest is a child born in early 2017, whose gender is yet to be confirmed. Ju-ae is said to be the middle child. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Is this Kim Jong-un’s reclusive daughter? Experts reveal key clues

Hunger levels in Somalia have left more than 500,000 children at the risk of dying. Amid a deadly famine, the mothers and famine hit Somalis are now bringing their starving children to nutrition centers with the hope that they can get some access to food.

WION Climate Tracker | Somalia's children face starvation deaths

As per a report by SkyNews, dealers are now using social media to peddle drugs to children.&nbsp;These contain cannabis and are packaged in appealing candy wrappers, which are predictably appealing to kids. In recent days, six children had to be sent to the hospital after eating these; one of them was just eight years old.

The "candies" are frequently advertised and offered for sale alongside class A substances like heroin, cocaine, LSD, and copious amounts of marijuana.

Watch |&nbsp;World of Africa | Battle to legalise cannabis in South Africa

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A SkyNews investigation found that dealers are openly operating on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and Snapchat.

While some CBD-infused goods are available legally in stores across the nation, these candies contain significant concentrations of THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis that is used to "get high".

Cannabis edibles, according to Detective Chief Inspector Rob Burns of Eastern Region Special Operations Unit (ERSOU), are illegal and can cause adverse reactions like unconsciousness.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/england-children-hospitalised-after-eating-cannabis-laced-candy-382290">England: Children hospitalised after eating cannabis-laced candy</a>

"The way they are branded to look like sweets suggests they are being marketed at children, but worryingly also means that they could easily fall into the wrong hands."

As per the report, there are concerns that county lines gangs are using these drugs to lure children into drug trafficking. Although they are based in big cities, these gangs supply and sell drugs to users in small towns and rural areas using young people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thousands-gather-to-smoke-up-at-thailands-first-legal-cannabis-festival-487790">Thousands gather to 'smoke up' at Thailand's first fully legal cannabis festival</a>

Boys and girls under 18 are eating cannabis edibles, mainly those of secondary school age, according to information from ERSOU. A third of those detained in connection with cannabis edibles, according to police in the east of England, are&nbsp;under the age of 18.

Police departments all around the UK are concerned about cannabis sweets. Nearly every police force in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland has experienced a problem with the candies in their neighbourhood.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As per a report by SkyNews, dealers are now using social media to peddle drugs to children. These contain cannabis and are packaged in appealing candy wrappers, which are predictably appealing to kids.

As per a report by SkyNews, dealers are now using social media to peddle drugs to children. These contain cannabis and are packaged in appealing candy wrappers, which are predictably appealing to kids. In recent days, six children had to be sent to the hospital after eating these; one of them was just eight years old. The "candies" are frequently advertised and offered for sale alongside class A substances like heroin, cocaine, LSD, and copious amounts of marijuana. Watch | World of Africa | Battle to legalise cannabis in South Africa A SkyNews investigation found that dealers are openly operating on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and Snapchat. While some CBD-infused goods are available legally in stores across the nation, these candies contain significant concentrations of THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis that is used to "get high". Cannabis edibles, according to Detective Chief Inspector Rob Burns of Eastern Region Special Operations Unit (ERSOU), are illegal and can cause adverse reactions like unconsciousness. Also read | England: Children hospitalised after eating cannabis-laced candy "The way they are branded to look like sweets suggests they are being marketed at children, but worryingly also means that they could easily fall into the wrong hands." As per the report, there are concerns that county lines gangs are using these drugs to lure children into drug trafficking. Although they are based in big cities, these gangs supply and sell drugs to users in small towns and rural areas using young people. Also read | Thousands gather to 'smoke up' at Thailand's first fully legal cannabis festival Boys and girls under 18 are eating cannabis edibles, mainly those of secondary school age, according to information from ERSOU. A third of those detained in connection with cannabis edibles, according to police in the east of England, are under the age of 18. Police departments all around the UK are concerned about cannabis sweets. Nearly every police force in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland has experienced a problem with the candies in their neighbourhood. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Cannabis 'candies' being sold to children in UK, six hospitalised

From Pakistan to Ukraine to Venezuela to vast stretches of sub-Saharan Africa, rising crises and climate disasters are taking an added toll on the most vulnerable -- children deprived of&nbsp;school.

"It is horrendous, and it's hard to imagine," said Yasmine Sherif, head of Education Cannot Wait, a&nbsp;UN&nbsp;fund that focuses on education in&nbsp;crisis&nbsp;zones.

"They've lost everything, and on top of it, they have lost their access to a quality education," she said in a recent interview.

Sherif spoke to AFP ahead of a&nbsp;UN&nbsp;summit on the education&nbsp;crisis&nbsp;to take place Monday, a day before the annual General Assembly.

The&nbsp;UN&nbsp;fund estimates that 222 million children around the world have seen their education disrupted by conflict or climate-related disasters, including nearly 80 million who never set foot in&nbsp;school.

Since 2016, Education Cannot Wait has raised more than $1 billion to build&nbsp;schools&nbsp;and buy educational materials as well as provide daily meals and offer psychological services. The aid helps nearly seven million children in 32 countries.&nbsp;

But Sherif said that the urgency of the situation required much bigger efforts.

"If we are going to meet the needs, we have to think in completely different terms today," she said. "We are speaking billions and billions here, not&nbsp;millions" of dollars.

Following the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;summit, Sherif is organizing a conference in Geneva in February where the fund will seek a further $1.5 billion with a goal of reaching an additional 20 million children.

Some Western nations spend $10,000 per year on educating a child. If children in conflict&nbsp;zones&nbsp;receive $150 each, "you can see the extreme divide," said Sherif, who is Swedish.

In some conflict&nbsp;zones,&nbsp;schools&nbsp;have been destroyed, in what Sherif denounced as war crimes, while others, in violation of international law, have been turned into weapons depots.

Elsewhere, physical danger or the gradual unraveling of infrastructure and public services have shut down education, which Sherif said should be a lifeline for the world's young.

"What we offer is a tool, a hope, an empowerment, to resist those forces in a conflict and, through their own means, be able to rise out of those ashes," she said.

The lack of education has real and immediate consequences. Children sometimes end up on the streets, facing threats of violence, human trafficking, recruitment by armed groups or, for girls, forced marriage.

"They've seen their villages burned down, they've seen their parents be executed, they have been subjected to violence. The only thing left for them is, 'If I can get an education, I can rise up out of this and make a difference in my life,'" Sherif said.

"We're taking away that very last piece of hope, unless we provide them with an education."

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From Pakistan to Ukraine to Venezuela to vast stretches of sub-Saharan Africa, rising crises and climate disasters are taking an added toll on the most vulnerable -- children deprived of school.

From Pakistan to Ukraine to Venezuela to vast stretches of sub-Saharan Africa, rising crises and climate disasters are taking an added toll on the most vulnerable -- children deprived of school. "It is horrendous, and it's hard to imagine," said Yasmine Sherif, head of Education Cannot Wait, a UN fund that focuses on education in crisis zones. "They've lost everything, and on top of it, they have lost their access to a quality education," she said in a recent interview. Sherif spoke to AFP ahead of a UN summit on the education crisis to take place Monday, a day before the annual General Assembly. The UN fund estimates that 222 million children around the world have seen their education disrupted by conflict or climate-related disasters, including nearly 80 million who never set foot in school. Since 2016, Education Cannot Wait has raised more than $1 billion to build schools and buy educational materials as well as provide daily meals and offer psychological services. The aid helps nearly seven million children in 32 countries. But Sherif said that the urgency of the situation required much bigger efforts. "If we are going to meet the needs, we have to think in completely different terms today," she said. "We are speaking billions and billions here, not millions" of dollars. Following the UN summit, Sherif is organizing a conference in Geneva in February where the fund will seek a further $1.5 billion with a goal of reaching an additional 20 million children. Some Western nations spend $10,000 per year on educating a child. If children in conflict zones receive $150 each, "you can see the extreme divide," said Sherif, who is Swedish. In some conflict zones, schools have been destroyed, in what Sherif denounced as war crimes, while others, in violation of international law, have been turned into weapons depots. Elsewhere, physical danger or the gradual unraveling of infrastructure and public services have shut down education, which Sherif said should be a lifeline for the world's young. "What we offer is a tool, a hope, an empowerment, to resist those forces in a conflict and, through their own means, be able to rise out of those ashes," she said. The lack of education has real and immediate consequences. Children sometimes end up on the streets, facing threats of violence, human trafficking, recruitment by armed groups or, for girls, forced marriage. "They've seen their villages burned down, they've seen their parents be executed, they have been subjected to violence. The only thing left for them is, 'If I can get an education, I can rise up out of this and make a difference in my life,'" Sherif said. "We're taking away that very last piece of hope, unless we provide them with an education." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

In crisis zones, an urgent UN push to put millions in school

A new study claims that children can be affected by their fathers' and grandfathers' smoking habits. Meaning, your grandchildren could be forced to pay the price of the cigarettes you smoke. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Children whose fathers smoke are more likely to get asthma

A recent study found children are more likely to suffer from asthma if their parents inhaled secondhand tobacco smoke in their childhood or were active smokers themselves. &nbsp;

In the study, which was published in the European Respiratory Journal, the international team of scientists also said that the impact of smoking and the resultant respiratory problems can be found over the next two generations in a phenomenon called “transgenerational effect”.&nbsp;

The team included several researchers from United Kingdom,&nbsp;Australia and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shanghai-cooperation-organisation-sco-summit-live-updates-515964" hreflang="en">SCO Summit LIVE | Putin thanks China's Xi, Modi lands in Samarkand</a>

“We found that the risk of non-allergic asthma in children increases by 59% if their fathers were exposed to secondhand smoke in childhood, compared to children whose fathers were not exposed."&nbsp;

“The risk was even higher, at 72%, if the fathers were exposed to secondhand smoke and went on to smoke themselves,” said Jiacheng Liu, from Melbourne University, told The Guardian.&nbsp;

Dr Dinh Bui, co-author of the study, believes that the study will be important in raising awareness regarding the harmful impacts of the smoking and can even result in "real change".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queen-elizabeth-iis-funeral-live-updates-515646">LIVE | Queen Elizabeth II's funeral details out, over 2,000 guests to attend</a>

“Our findings show how the damage caused by smoking can have an impact not only on smokers but also their children and grandchildren,” she said while explaining the reasons behind the study.&nbsp;

“Paternal smoke exposure before the age of 15 years is a major risk factor for non-allergic asthma.”&nbsp;

The study mentioned a number of cases where smoking ended up altering epigenetic changes and that was stated to be the most likely reasons behind the increase risks of asthma in future generations.&nbsp;

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A recent study found children are more likely to suffer from asthma if their parents inhaled secondhand tobacco smoke in their childhood or were active smokers themselves.

A recent study found children are more likely to suffer from asthma if their parents inhaled secondhand tobacco smoke in their childhood or were active smokers themselves. In the study, which was published in the European Respiratory Journal, the international team of scientists also said that the impact of smoking and the resultant respiratory problems can be found over the next two generations in a phenomenon called “transgenerational effect”. The team included several researchers from United Kingdom, Australia and Sri Lanka. Also read | SCO Summit LIVE | Putin thanks China's Xi, Modi lands in Samarkand “We found that the risk of non-allergic asthma in children increases by 59% if their fathers were exposed to secondhand smoke in childhood, compared to children whose fathers were not exposed." “The risk was even higher, at 72%, if the fathers were exposed to secondhand smoke and went on to smoke themselves,” said Jiacheng Liu, from Melbourne University, told The Guardian. Dr Dinh Bui, co-author of the study, believes that the study will be important in raising awareness regarding the harmful impacts of the smoking and can even result in "real change". Also read | LIVE | Queen Elizabeth II's funeral details out, over 2,000 guests to attend “Our findings show how the damage caused by smoking can have an impact not only on smokers but also their children and grandchildren,” she said while explaining the reasons behind the study. “Paternal smoke exposure before the age of 15 years is a major risk factor for non-allergic asthma.” The study mentioned a number of cases where smoking ended up altering epigenetic changes and that was stated to be the most likely reasons behind the increase risks of asthma in future generations.

Children, grandchildren of parents exposed to secondhand smoke more likely to get asthma: Study

Trending on WION | Report: Children increasingly using social media to escape 'negative feelings'

Britney Spears has released a series of audio clips on her Instagram page in which she discusses her estrangement from her two sons, Sean Preston, 16, and Jayden, 15.

WION Fineprint | Britney Spears reflects on sons leaving: 'A huge part of me has died'

Somalia is facing a deadly drought. The situation in the country is growing grimmer with each passing day. The UN has even warned that the drought has left Somalia on the brink of famine.

WION Climate Tracker | UNICEF warns of disease outbreak among children in Somalia

Gravitas Plus | Do you pack your child's schedule with activities? Does your child have no time to get bored? Did you know boredom is a great teacher? Boredom teaches children life lessons that worksheets and seminars can't. Listen in to Palki Sharma (@palkisu).

Gravitas Plus: Why children need to be taught the art of doing nothing?

In a heart-warming&nbsp;initiative,&nbsp;window cleaners turned into&nbsp;superheroes by donning different costumes&nbsp;while working to&nbsp;cheer up the kids being treated at a hospital in Canada.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The special efforts made by the cleaners have left many people emotional.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A few images and&nbsp;the story have been shared on Twitter by the hospital.

&nbsp;It is now trending and&nbsp;is sure to&nbsp;fill hearts&nbsp;with happiness and&nbsp;faces&nbsp;with smiles.&nbsp;

In the tweet,&nbsp;the hospital thanked these workers for making the day special for the kids, who are undergoing treatments.

&nbsp;“Our #healthcare heroes received some back-up today - #superheroes brought smiles to the faces of our youngest #patients. Staff from @EliteWindowC rappelled down the building to not only fight grime, but bring much needed fun &amp; distraction to patients, family &amp; staff,” the hospital tweeted.&nbsp;

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Our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/healthcare?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#healthcare</a> heroes received some back-up today - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/superheroes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#superheroes</a> brought smiles to the faces of our youngest <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/patients?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#patients</a>. Staff from <a href="https://twitter.com/EliteWindowC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EliteWindowC</a> rappelled down the building to not only fight grime, but bring much needed fun &amp; distraction to patients, family &amp; staff. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ygk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ygk</a> <a href="https://t.co/TLie1vccLx">pic.twitter.com/TLie1vccLx</a>
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Even after being shared a day ago, the&nbsp;post has already garnered more than 1,000 likes. The list of retweets and people following is growing by the minute.&nbsp;

Not just this, there are&nbsp;numerous&nbsp;comments from&nbsp;netizens, who are all praise for the workers.&nbsp;A Twitter user said,&nbsp;“Tears. Every. Single. Time.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Aww, these photos are always THE BEST,”&nbsp;said another user.&nbsp;

In a heart-warming initiative, window cleaners turned into superheroes by donning different costumes while working to cheer up the kids being treated at a hospital in Canada.

In a heart-warming initiative, window cleaners turned into superheroes by donning different costumes while working to cheer up the kids being treated at a hospital in Canada. The special efforts made by the cleaners have left many people emotional. A few images and the story have been shared on Twitter by the hospital. It is now trending and is sure to fill hearts with happiness and faces with smiles. In the tweet, the hospital thanked these workers for making the day special for the kids, who are undergoing treatments. “Our #healthcare heroes received some back-up today - #superheroes brought smiles to the faces of our youngest #patients. Staff from @EliteWindowC rappelled down the building to not only fight grime, but bring much needed fun & distraction to patients, family & staff,” the hospital tweeted. Our #healthcare heroes received some back-up today - #superheroes brought smiles to the faces of our youngest #patients. Staff from @EliteWindowC rappelled down the building to not only fight grime, but bring much needed fun & distraction to patients, family & staff. #ygk pic.twitter.com/TLie1vccLx — KingstonHSC (@KingstonHSC) July 16, 2021 × Even after being shared a day ago, the post has already garnered more than 1,000 likes. The list of retweets and people following is growing by the minute. Not just this, there are numerous comments from netizens, who are all praise for the workers. A Twitter user said, “Tears. Every. Single. Time.” “Aww, these photos are always THE BEST,” said another user.

To cheer up children, window cleaners become ‘superheroes’ in Canada

A new report released by the Brookings Institution has found that the average cost of raising a child has grown to over $300,000 in the USA, primarily due to sky-high inflation rates.

A new report released by the Brookings Institution has found that the average cost of raising a child has grown to over $300,000 in the USA, primarily due to sky-high inflation rates. Reportedly, the research showed that the average amount required to raise a child of a middle-income married couple, born in 2015, till he/she is 17 years old or in high school will be $310,605; which comes down to roughly $18,271 per year. The estimates include everything from housing, food, clothing, healthcare, child care, diapers, haircuts, and sports equipment. Moreover, it includes the money spent on learning extracurricular activities and celebrating different childhood milestones. “A lot of people are going to think twice before they have either a first child or a subsequent child because everything is costing more. You also may feel like you have to work more.” said Isabel Sawhill, a senior fellow at the institute. It is pertinent to note that the earlier figure stood at $233,610, as released by the US Department of Agriculture in 2015. According to Brookings Institution, the new calculations used the previous government estimate only, using it as a baseline but also pairing it up with the recent inflation trends. What is the inflation trend in the US? As reported by WION, US has been facing its worst bout of economic slowdown in recent times. The economy has contracted for two successive quarters which suggests that a recession has set in place. Read More: President Biden claims US had ‘zero per cent inflation’ in July; gets trolled by Republicans The inflation rate for the month of July stood at 8.5 per cent, majorly due to a drop in fuel prices. However, if compared to year-on-year numbers, the inflation rate was still touching a 40-year record high and consumers were bearing the brunt of it. In June, the figure stood at 9.1 per cent. Moreover, a recent Bloomberg survey stated that there was a 40 per cent chance that the country will slip into a recession by next year. Read more: Zero probability of recession in India while US has a 40 per cent chance: Study (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Want to raise a kid in the US? Be prepared to shell over $300,000

Around 1 million children in London will be offered a polio booster vaccine. The decision came after the virus was detected in sewage samples across the UK capital.

United Kingdom: Urgent polio boosters for London children

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